Rhyme Time – Reckless Abandon in Crandon

By Joann M. Ringelstetter

On an autumn trip to the north
To the town of Crandon we came
So at dawn I stood on the street
To see what was calling my name.

Hotel Crandon, 1929, Crandon, Wisconsin

The old Hotel Crandon spoke out
And a sign for Ducks Bar beckoned me
But a fancy brick lodge for the masons
Was the loveliest thing I could see.

Antique Neon Sign for Ducks Bar, Crandon, Wisconsin

As I entered the crosswalk to start,
A man strolled leisurely by;
“It’s a beautiful day!” the man said,
“Yes, it IS!” I said in reply.

Crandon Grand Lodge 287, Crandon, Wisconsin

“If only I would have known
You wanted a picture of me,
I would have combed my hair
And dressed with more dignity.”

Hotel Crandon, Crandon, Wisconsin

I looked at the hat on his head
And thought that he might be bald
Then something came out of my mouth
And I hope you won’t be appalled.

Crandon Grand Lodge 287, Crandon, Wisconsin

I asked with a grin and a giggle,
“Do you HAVE any hair 'neath that hat?”
So he lifted the hat as he said,
“A couple, and that is that.”

Hotel Crandon, 1929, Crandon, Wisconsin

Then he passed me and turned back around,
And said, “What are you up to today?”
“Oh, about five foot six,” I replied,
As his head began shaking away.

Crandon Grand Lodge 287, Crandon, Wisconsin

“You’re really on your game,” he remarked,
As I shrugged and said, “Have a nice day!”
And our brief encounter was over
As he smirked and walked away.

Crandon Grand Lodge 287, Crandon, Wisconsin

Happy Shunpiking!
Joann