Laughter, excitement and plenty of birthday cheer filled Irene Hohn’s living room last Thursday as she heard news from Wessington Springs Mayor Brian Bergeleen that June 23, 2023 was officially proclaimed “Irene Hohn Day.” She was presented with a proclamation recognizing her 100th birthday, “honoring her long life and prosperity.”
The proclamation prompted a trip down memory lane, evoking memories of driving a horse and buggy along the three-mile route she took to school in Davison County.
As the oldest of 13 children, Irene's strong work ethic and can-do attitude proved invaluable to her parents, August and Alice Baumgart. In her leisure time, she showcased her musical talents by playing the violin and saxophone, joining forces with her siblings to form a family band. Together, they played by ear, with Irene's sister and brother handling the banjo and drums.
One cherished childhood memory for Irene was winning a prize for best penmanship at the age of ten—a beautiful black and white pen. After completing eighth grade, Irene began working for neighbors, performing various household and farm chores such as milking cows and cleaning chickens for dinner each day. As a hired hand, she received a weekly wage of $3.
In later years, Irene worked for a program that provided school lunches, whereshecookedupplenty of vegetable soup and baked raisin pies, earning a monthly salary of $19. Additionally, she worked in housekeeping at the hospital in Worthington, Minnesota.
Irene and Victor shared a love for visiting casinos and formed lasting friendships along the way. Victor enjoyed playing cards, while Irene found delight in playing the slot machines.
Both Irene and Victor cherished family gatherings and made Sunday dinners a tradition.
After Victor's passing on September 23, 2009, Irene relocated to Springs. Her hobbies included shopping and playing bingo. She was an active member of St. Frances Circle for many decades.
Hohn looks forward to enjoying a day proclaimed in her honor along with a gathering of friends and family this weekend to celebrate a century.