City to recognize "Bessie the Cow Day"

by MARCIA NELESEN ( Contact ) Saturday, June 7, 2008

JANESVILLE — Janesville’s bovine beauty might be recognized with a day in her honor.

The Janesville City Council on Monday will be asked to approve a resolution recognizing June 14 as “Bessie the Cow Day” as she returns to her landmark spot near the former Oasis.

Bessie is a 16-foot-tall, 20-foot-long, one-ton fiberglass cow. She was purchased in 1966 by the former Oasis property and was dedicated in a ceremony that included an appearance by Miss Universe.

Bessie presided over her turf of concrete on Milton Avenue near the Interstate for 40 years, becoming a tourist attraction and local landmark. Many a wedding party and traveler gathered for a photo op around her Guernsey, brown-and-white legs.

BLM Land two years ago purchased the Oasis and Ramada properties, demolished the existing buildings and redeveloped the site. A new Menards store opened there last month, with room for other development.

Bessie the Cow was refurbished by Utzig CARSTAR, whose owner, Al Utzig, donated his services.

BLM Land will return Bessie the Cow to 2101 Morse St. at the Del Taco site.

A rededication ceremony will be held for Bessie on Saturday, June 14.

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