Hanauer, Burton C. (1923-1997)

https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/gen_oh/12/ [15727]

Biographical Information: Burton C. Hanauer was born on May 29, 1923 in Albany, Minnesota to Bernard and Ida (Markus) Hanauer. He graduated Albany High School and Northwest Institute where he specialized in medical technology. He was a World War II Navy veteran and later was also employed as a medical technician at St. Cloud VA Medical Center. Burton was an active member of Avon Lions Club, Knights of Columbus Council, Boy Scouts, and the St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. He also served the Avon City Council. Burton was also the inventor of the “Football Yard Mark” which is used in high school, college, and professional levels of football. He married Janet Clair Bloms on January 21, 1947 and they had three children – Ginny, Karen, and Tom. Burton died on April 15, 1997 at the age of 73 and buried at St. Benedict’s Parish Cemetery in Avon, Minnesota

Transcript Summary: In an interview conducted on September 28, 1977 Burton discussed his family background, including both sides of his family. His father, Bernard, first started the Hanauer Machine Works in Albany, Minnesota, in 1930 that built farming wagons. Later he and his brother Al bought the company from their father and further developed it and expanded it to Avon. He discussed how the initially expanded the business, what they manufactured (mostly for other manufacturers), their employees, and how the business is currently functioning. He also touched on the growth of the city of Avon over time. Burton also talked about the many religious and social organizations that he was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, American Legion, and many more.

Interview by Calvin Gower and John LeDoux.