John Leff’s dad was one of Timber Lake founders in 1910
Before Timber Lake had a post office, mail was distributed at the First State Bank and Waterbury Hardware. A young Wenzel Leff is pictured (left of center), reading a letter.
Wenzel Leff’s store, which he started in 1910, was located on “upper Broadway.” He is the dark haired man second from the left.
Wenzel Leff in his store in Timber Lake in 1910.
John Leff of Mobridge, nearing his 90th birthday, traces his roots to Timber Lake, where his father, Wenzel, started one of the first businesses in Timber Lake in 1910.
A newspaper ad for Wenzel Leff’s store in Timber Lake
A number of Mobridge business people can trace their historical roots to the West River Timber Lake area, which was a launch pad for entrepreneurs who have contributed to both communities.
Wenzel Leff was one such entrepreneur. Others included the Stoicks, Keslings, Linds, McClellans, and Jacksons, to name a few.
John Leff, who has lived in Mobridge since he was born there in 1935, said his father, …
