Learn About Local Celebrities From Cambridge, Wisconsin

Ole Evinrude

Born in Milwaukee, WI in 1896. Parents: Gustov and Austermar Melster. One brother, Harvey.
His family moved to Cambridge when Arthur was in the 6th grade. Graduated from Cambridge High School in 1915. His class consisted of seven girls and one boy.
Some of his school years accomplishments: baseball, orator, started an orchestra and introduced the first high school prom.
Served in the Army from 1918-1919.
1919, began working at the Bank of Cambridge. Through his leadership, the Cambridge area Chamber of Commerce was created in 1922 where he served as President of the Chamber for 30 years.
1920, with his brother and mother, founded the Melster Candy Company, which actually began in the kitchen of his parents’ home.
On the 100th Anniversary of the Village of Cambridge, Arthur Melster called business leaders together and presented the idea of a “Cambridge Foundation.” The Foundation was established to receive funds for the betterment of Cambridge and the area. To establish the fund, each of the business leaders contributed $100. Art was elected President of the Foundation and held the position for over 30 years.
1949, elected President of the Lake Ripley Country Club. During his tenure, five remodeling and additions completed. Served in the position for 26 years.

Born in 1888, youngest of three boys
Some time after 1885, moved to Cambridge, WI where he resided for four years
Built 1st practical motorcycle in 1903
One of the founding members of Harley-Davidson, established in 1903
Convinced government officials that motorcycles could replace bicycles. By 1914, the USPS had more than 4800 Harley-Davidson motorcycles deliving mail, one of which was delivered to Peter Olson, a mail carrier who lived in Cambridge, WI
Driving force in setting up the nation-wide dealer network for Harley-Davidson
He and his wife perished in a car accident in 1950

Born March 10, 1972, Cambridge, WI
Married Katie Martin in 2000
Children: Ross, Kaylin, Grace, Clara, Mallory
Began Stock Car Racing in 1988 at age 16
1991, youngest driver to win ARTGO racing series. Won Late Model Rockie of the Year at Slinger Speedway
Partnered with DEWALT Industrial Tools in the Busch Series
Became a professional NASCAR driver in 2000 and was named Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year
2003 NASCAR Winston Cup Champion
Won Daytona 500 in 2009 and 2012
Raced and won on 20 different tracks with 38 Cup series victories