“Indians attacked settlers here.” That’s quite an introduction to the Site of Idlewild Community plaque, isn’t it? This marker commemorates a place with a compelling history. It is a story of community, resilience, and even a little bit of rivalry.
This Site of Idlewild Community plaque marks the spot of a settlement. It was growing in July 1867. A group of Indians attacked Romanus Gross and his son George. The attack occurred on land belonging to Michael Kauffmann, Gross’ son-in-law. Men from Castroville pursued the attackers who were accused of stealing horses. Both Grosses were shot. George was scalped.
The Idlewild community was formally organized around 1879. That same year, Thomas Dunkin arrived from New York. He was a lawyer. Dunkin tutored in Michael Kauffmann’s home. Dunkin and Kauffmann saw the community’s growth. They convinced their neighbors to build a schoolhouse. Kauffmann donated the land. Dunkin became the first teacher. He used an innovative curriculum designed in New York. It was specifically for one-room schools.
In 1881, Dunkin wanted the railroad to come to Idlewild. He offered twenty acres for a station. Other land could not be secured, however. The station was built in Lacoste instead. This created competition between the two communities. Idlewild remained an agricultural center. It was also a livestock center.
Dunkin applied for a U.S. postal permit in 1887. He first suggested “Ida” after Michael Kauffmann’s daughter. Then he suggested “Ivanhoe.” Both names were rejected because they were already in use. He finally named the community Idlewild. He named it after Idlewild, New York. The post office operated until 1902. Idlewild’s second school closed in 1955.
Standing here at the Site of Idlewild Community plaque, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. Consider the dreams of Thomas Dunkin. He envisioned a thriving town. Picture the children learning in the one-room schoolhouse. Imagine the challenges faced by early settlers. The Site of Idlewild Community plaque serves as a reminder. It speaks to the enduring spirit of community.