The Milne store was the heart and soul of Flanigan, a small railroad community located in the eastern portion of the Honey Lake Valley on the Nevada side. In 1934, William and Gertrude Milne took over the Flanigan store for Orlando Gasperoni, who had moved to Wendel. At the same time, William became the town’s postmaster. Four years later, the Milne’s purchased the store from Gasperoni. It should be noted, all during this time, Gertrude was the teacher at Bonham School at Flanigan.

Of course, there would a lot of changes over time at the Milne Store. First was the passing of William in 1945, and Gertrude continued with the store, post office as well as her teaching duties . The 1950s, saw a decline in trade at the store, and in 1957, Gertrude retired from her teaching duties.  On March 31, 1961, the Flanigan Post Office. Not discouraged, Gertrude continued to stay at Flanigan. On January 2, 1969, while Gertrude was visiting at Fish Springs Ranch, her combination, store, post office and home was destroyed by fire.

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In 1929, some one had high hopes for Wendel. Nearly sixty years later, some one in Germany thought it had occurred. At that time I had received a call about wanting to know the nearest international airport was for Wendel. In addition, what kind of accommodations were available and did Wendel have a Holiday Inn Hotel. Alas, I had to explain to Armin deWendel current state of affairs. Armin’s interest in Wendel was due to the fact it was named after his family who were investors in the NCO Railroad. Needless to say, after I sent him some photographs of the town, his interest to visit the place went by the wayside.

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