Round the Bend Now and Then

In 1944, Mishawaka’s Elizabeth Richardson left home to serve American troops overseas with the Red Cross during World War II. She would never make it home.

But her footlocker did.

More than 80 years later, that same footlocker was discovered in the most unlikely of places: Along a creek in California.

Mishawaka historian Pete DeKever joins me to tell the remarkable story of Liz Richardson, the wartime journey of her footlocker through England and France, what happened to it after her tragic death in 1945, and the incredible chain of events that finally brought it back home to Mishawaka.

We also talk about Pete’s own journey following in Liz’s footsteps and why, eight decades after her death, her story continues to resonate.

An incredible story of war, loss, mystery, kindness and a piece of Mishawaka history that somehow found its way home.

Thank you Pete for your time and passion for preserving our local history!

Special thanks to the Mishawaka Historical Museum and M/T Box Computers for their continued support of Round the Bend Now and Then!

Thanks for listening to Round the Bend Now & Then! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves South Bend & Mishawaka history. It truly helps us continue telling the stories hiding right under our noses.

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A big thank you to the Mishawaka Historical Museum for supporting our work! Be sure to stop by and learn ALL about the great city of Mishawaka! Check out their website to learn more!

https://mishawakamuseum.org/

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Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

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Round the Bend Now and Then is available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

Follow on Instagram: @roundthebend574

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

In this episode, I meet with Joseph S. Pete, an award winning journalist and business reporter for The Times of Northwest Indiana. Joseph has spent years covering the businesses, industries, restaurants, and communities of Northwest Indiana, but he's also an author with a passion for uncovering the stories of the Hoosier State.

His latest book, Lost Treasures of Indiana, takes readers across the state to revisit restaurants, stores, amusement parks, entertainment venues, landmarks, and other beloved places that have disappeared. It's a beautiful, oversized, coffee-table style book filled with color photographs and bite sized stories that make it easy to pick up.... and difficult to put down.

Of course, we spend plenty of time on the lost treasures of South Bend and Mishawaka, but our conversation also travels throughout Indiana. Joseph shares some of his favorite discoveries, the places that surprised him, and how living and traveling throughout the state helped develop his appreciation for local history.

If you enjoy remembering what used to be there, whether it's in South Bend, Mishawaka, Northwest Indiana, or anywhere else in the Hoosier State, this episode is for you.

Pick up Lost Treasures of Indiana and learn more about Joseph's other books here: https://reedypress.com/author/pete/joseph-s-pete/

Special thanks to Dan Berry Insurance and M/T Box Computers for their continued support of Round the Bend Now and Then!

Thanks for listening to Round the Bend Now & Then! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves South Bend & Mishawaka history. It truly helps us continue telling the stories hiding right under our noses.

__________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Round the Bend Now and Then is available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

Follow on Instagram: @roundthebend574

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

In this episode, local historian and author Aaron Helman shares how a forgotten briefcase, filled with letters, photographs, postcards, and personal keepsakes, revealed an entirely different side of J. D. Oliver Jr, heir to the Oliver empire. The result is a fascinating story of love, loss, and rediscovery that also paints a vivid picture of life in South Bend during the early 20th century. Read more about this story at: https://southbendnewstimes.com/community/helman-jd-oliver-jr/

Whether you're fascinated by the Oliver family, Copshaholm, or simply enjoy uncovering forgotten local history, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

Learn more about Aaron Helman's outstanding local history work at https://aaronhelman.com/!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

• M/T Box Computers
• Dan Berry Insurance

Thanks for listening to Round the Bend: Now & Then! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves South Bend & Mishawaka history. It truly helps us continue telling the stories hiding right under our noses.

__________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Round the Bend Now and Then is available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

Follow on Instagram: @roundthebend574

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

This week, we’re revisiting one of the podcast’s early episodes: the story behind Four Winds Field. Better known to many longtime South Bend residents as “The Cove.”

Originally released in July 2023, my conversation with former South Bend Mayor Roger Parent explores the vision, challenges, and determination that transformed a neglected site into one of downtown South Bend’s most beloved gathering places. Three years later, the story is just as relevant as ever. With major renovations, a new upper deck, and growth around the stadium, it continues to be a gem in our community!

Join us as we look back on the history of the stadium and reflect on the lasting impact of Mayor Parent’s leadership and service to South Bend.

A HUGE THANK YOU to Mayor Parent for your time but more importantly thank you for ALL that you have done for our community!

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Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

__________________________________________________

Round the Bend Now and Then is available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

Follow on Instagram: @roundthebend574

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

Potawatomi Zoo has been a beloved part of our community for over a century.

In this episode, I sit down with Executive Director Josh Sisk to talk about his journey to leading Potawatomi Zoo, what it takes to operate a modern accredited zoo, and the exciting vision for its future. We also take a fun look back through historic South Bend Tribune articles that highlight just how far the zoo has come - from its humble beginnings to the incredible destination it is today.

Whether you've been visiting the zoo for decades or haven't been in years, I think you'll come away with an even greater appreciation for one of South Bend's true gems.

A special thank you to our sponsors, Dan Berry Insurance and M/T Box Computers, for making this episode possible.

If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Facebook, and find us on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X at @roundthebend574. Thanks for listening!

_____________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

Follow on Instagram: @roundthebend574

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

In this episode, I sit down with Larry Clifford to explore the rich history of the Rose Garden at Leeper Park.

Over 10 years ago, Larry spearheaded an effort to "resurrect the roses" and beautify a neglected historic Rose Garden at South Bend's Leeper Park.

Dating back to the early 1900s, the garden has evolved through multiple redesigns, weathered floods, experienced periods of decline, and found new life thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers committed to preserving this important piece of local history.

Larry shares what inspired the restoration effort, the challenges of maintaining a historic public space, and why beautiful public places still matter today.

Want to help, volunteer, or learn more? Check out the Resurrect the Roses Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1EvGmmkxdh/

Special thanks to Larry Clifford and the many volunteers who have dedicated their time, energy, and passion in trying to ensure this garden maintains all of its beauty.

This episode is made possible by M/T Box Computers, Dan Berry Insurance, and InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop! More info below!

__________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

__________________________________________________

Available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

For nearly 60 years, the Leeper Park Art Fair has brought artists, art lovers, and the community together beneath the trees of one of South Bend's most beautiful and historic parks.

In this episode, I sit down with Leeper Park Art Fair Coordinator Hedy Lane to explore the fair's origins, the people who helped build it into a nationally recognized event, and why artists and patrons continue returning year after year. You'll hear stories of artists from across the country, the connections formed between artists and visitors, the economic impact the fair brings to South Bend, and even the infamous "Toilet Paper Debacle" of 2021.

Whether you're a longtime attendee or have never visited before, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of South Bend's most cherished annual traditions.

The 2026 Leeper Park Art Fair takes place June 20–21. Learn more at https://leeperparkartfair.org/

Special thanks to our sponsors of this episode: Dan Berry Insurance, M/T Box Computers, and InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop.

__________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

__________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

__________________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Twitter: @roundthebendpod

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

To contact the show, you can email at [email protected] or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.

For decades, the massive Drewry’s Brewery complex on South Bend’s northwest side stood as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Long after production stopped, the towering brick buildings along Elwood Avenue remained a reminder of South Bend’s industrial past.

In this episode, I sit down with Drewry’s historian and collector Wes Weaver to uncover the incredible story behind the brewery. From its roots as the historic Muessel Brewery, to Prohibition era intrigue, Detroit organized crime connections, federal investigations, corporate mergers, and the eventual collapse of regional breweries - this is a fascinating dive into one of South Bend’s most iconic industrial giants.

A huge thanks to Wes for sharing his incredible research and passion for preserving brewery history. Be sure to check out Wes's article: Born in Canada, Built in Detroit, Brewed in South Bend. The Story of Drewrys Limited USA

Check out the Brewery Collectibles Club of America website: https://bcca.com/

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Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

_________________________________________________________

Special thanks to our friends at Allie's Cafe for supporting this episode of Round the Bend Now and Then! A River Park staple for 26 years, Allie’s is more than just a cafe - it’s family. Stop in, grab a breakfast burrito (my favorite), or check out their catering at https://www.alliescafe.com/ and tell them Round the Bend sent you!

_________________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

_______________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Twitter: @roundthebendpod

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

To contact the show, you can email at [email protected] or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.

For a brief moment in the 1960's, downtown Mishawaka almost looked completely different.

Plans were unveiled for Center Point Tower - a futuristic 33 story skyscraper featuring offices, apartments, observation decks, and even a revolving restaurant overlooking the St. Joseph River. It would have transformed the Mishawaka skyline forever… but it was never built.

In this episode, I sit down with local Mishawaka historian Pete DeKever to explore one of the most fascinating “what if” stories in our area’s history. Pete, author of Lost Mishawaka, shares the story behind the ambitious vision, the man who dreamed it, and why the project ultimately never became reality.

A HUGE thank you to Pete for sharing his time, knowledge, research, and genuine passion for preserving Mishawaka history. Conversations like this are such an important reminder that there’s SO much history right under our noses.

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A big thank you to the Mishawaka Historical Museum for supporting our work! Discover the stories and people that shaped Mishawaka through engaging exhibits, including over 160 newly displayed artifacts and pictures, and pick up your free Mishawaka History Summer Bucket List booklet!

Learn more and plan your visit at mishawakamuseum.org and be sure to stop in and explore.

_____________________________________________________

Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

_____________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

_________________________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

Follow us on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@roundthebend574?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

To contact the show, you can email at [email protected] or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.

In the early 1990s, South Bend took a bold swing, landing the College Football Hall of Fame with hopes of putting the city on the national stage and sparking new life in downtown.

In this episode, I sit down with Richard Nussbaum, former South Bend city attorney under Joe Kernan and someone who had a front row seat to how it all unfolded. From the excitement of landing the Hall, to the numerous challenges, to the eventual move out of South Bend, Dick shares a firsthand look at one of the most ambitious, and debated, chapters in our city’s modern history.

This is the story of a big idea, the risks that come with it, and what it all means looking back today. _________________________________________________________

Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

_________________________________________________________

Special thanks to our friends at Allie's Cafe for supporting this episode of Round the Bend Now and Then! A River Park staple for 26 years, Allie’s is more than just a cafe - it’s family. Stop in, grab a breakfast burrito (my favorite), or check out their catering at https://www.alliescafe.com/ and tell them Round the Bend sent you!

_________________________________________________________

Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

_______________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Twitter: @roundthebendpod

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

To contact the show, you can email at [email protected] or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.