In 1923 Edgar and Ethel Johnson started a small business in their garage in Waseca that grew to become the E.F. Johnson Co., manufacturers of radio components, CB radios, and forerunners of cellular phone technology. It no longer exists, but during its time it won the coveted Navy “E” Award for WWII bond sales and radio service provided overseas. Edgar and Ethel, as well as Edgar’s brothers Everett and Marvin and their wives, were proud of the company that employed so many in the Waseca area and cultivated a great work ethic and community pride. The Johnsons were especially supportive of the Waseca County Historical Society by purchasing the present museum building, renovating, and donating it to the Society in 1964. The Edgar F. and Ethel Johnson Foundation was the first Waseca Area Foundation Fund created to benefit WCHS.