977.346
H12p
11968
HAGEMAN Z.uci/'e
PARTIAL ENCYCLOPEDIA
»d
OF 7/AVERLY. d^td,
■j
HISTORY OF
ILLINOIS
PARTIAL
ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WAVERLY
Second Edition (Revised)
1968
SESQUICENTENNIAL YEAR
OF THE
STATE OF ILLINOIS
Compiled and arranged by Lucille Hageman, M.A.
Edited by Mrs. Allen Burns, M.A.
Typed by Arnolda N. Duewer
Printed by Jacksonville Journal Courier Co.
UNIVERSITY OH
ILLINOIS LIBRAR1
FOREWORD
In an effort to preserve data of Waverly, this material
has been assembled. During 1968 many interesting
facts and stories have been added to the previous his-
tory. In our study there have been many leads which
we have been unable 1o follow, for lack of time, and
we sincerely hope that from time to time in the future
more information will be added to this revision.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Librarians
of Illinois College, Waverly Carnegie Library, Waverly High School
Library and the State Historian of Springfield.
We are grateful to Bruce Twenhafel and Connie Potts, chair-
men and members of the Senior and Junior classes for their
reports on sports in Waverly through the years. To those who
furnished letters, newspaper clippings and historic records from
personal files, many thanks.
To each and every person who contributed so graciously to
this book, the response we received was more enthusiastic than
we had anticipated, a very appreciative thank you.
Waverly can justly be proud of her citizens.
Page Two
<?T7. 3K> WAVERLY PIONEERS
tf<0
Across the sweeping prairie land
Came the early pioneers,
The land was rich with promise
As they thought of future years.
Men of vision, men of courage
Saw a city on the plain
To them it would be Waverly
A homeland rich to gain.
From east to west, high-minded men
With will to undertake.
With labor built and tilled the soil
A prairie home to make
They planted many lovely trees
Which have been the city's pride,
Broad reaching fields of golden grain
Stretch out from every side.
A homeland built with loving hands
With strength, with pride, with care,
And all who call it home today
Are glad its ioys to share.
Mrs. N. E. Baldwin
1957
Page Three
CONTENTS
i.
ii.
in.
INTRODUCTION
EARLY SETTLEMENT OF WAVERLY
1.
Appalonia
2.
Waverly
3.
Ordinances
4.
City Officials
5.
An Early Census
OUR MANY "FIRSTS"
1.
First Wedding
2.
First Child Born in Waverly
3.
First Sermon
4.
First Teacher
5.
First Death
6.
First Justice of Peace
First Constable
7.
First Mail Delivery Service
8.
First Radio
IV. OUR FOUNDERS' FAITH
1834 Primitive Baptist
1836 Congregational
1840 Methodist Episcopal
1849 Christian
1855 Baptist
1858 Catholic
1937 Lutheran
V. EDUCATION
1. Early Schools
2. Schools of Today
VI. OUR BUSINESS WORLD
1836 Transportation
1836 Industries — Business
1837 Banks
1869 Newspaper
1896 Telephone
1922 Photography
1930 Highways
1937 Water and Sewerage Systems
1955 Natural Gas for Heating and Lighting
VII. CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
1. Woman's Club
2. Library
a. Congregational
b. Carnegie
Page Four
VIII. FRATERNAL ORDERS
1852 Masons
1879 Kebekah
1888 Pythian Sisters
1894 Knights of Pythias
1896 Order of the Eastern Star
1920 American Legion
1927 American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 262
1948 Lions Club
1950 Shrine Club
Chamber of Commerce
IX. RECREATION AND AMUSEMENTS
1. Sports
a. Football
b. Basketball
c. Track
d. Baseball
e. Bowling
2. Theaters
a. Messerly
b. Bijou
c. Rex
X. WARS
1. Winnebago
2. Black Hawk
3. Mormon Conflict
4. War Between the States
5. Spanish-American
6. World Wars I and II
7. Korean
8. Viet Nam
XI. MISCELLANEOUS
1. Deep Snow
2. Sudden Freeze
3. Cholera
4. Early Weddings
5. Fact and Fiction
6. Nickname "Suckers"
7. Shakerag
8. Salter Park
9. LaFayette's Carriage
10. Liquor in Harvest Fields
11. Automobile Polo
12. Centennial 1935
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Page Five
INTRODUCTION
The Illinois story, written by our state historian, Harry E. Pratt, is
exciting and inspiring. Geographically, Illinois is located at the heart of the
great interior river system of the continent — a level land of large fertile
prairie and numerous groves. One author has called it the second "Garden
of Eden", because of the richness of its natural resources and its abundance
and variety of products.
Automatically it became well known in early history, because ex-
plorers, adventurers, and settlers, in turn passed this way.
An act of Congress, April 18, 1818, was passed enabling the people of
the territory to form a state convention for the purpose of drafting a con-
stitution. The convention was held in Madison County which included
Morgan County. Benjamin Stephenson, Joseph Borough, and Abraham
Prickett were members of the convention. The constitution was adopted
August 26, 1818, in convention at Kaskaskia. December 3, 1818, Congress
passed a law, declaring admission of Illinois into the Union. Thus Illinois
became the 21st state in the Union, July 4, 1819.
Many small settlements had been made along the streams and pro-
tected areas during the years 1820-21-22; and at the session of the Legisla-
ture in the Spring of 1823, Morgan County was created. The county was
named for General Daniel Morgan. In 1837 it was the most populous county
in the state.
The county seat was selected by a committee of men appointed by
the State Legislature. After several changes, it finally was prmanently
located in Jacksonville.
Page Six
r
Ss*
~/!&*S*
P
ARLY
F:
-H
Of
OVERLY
cru u crpq
Page Seven
EARLY SETTLEMENT OF WAVERLY
The "Range", a log cabin of three or four rooms, a half dozen rude
cabins scattered near, and a mill — this was Waverly in 1835.
It was on Monday, April 20, 1835, that Deacon Tanner and his family
reached this, their destination, having been exactly three weeks on the
journey from Warren, Connecticut.
The log cabin was built just west of what is now called West Waverly
on the old road to Appalonia. Humble though it was, that log house was
known for its God-like spirit, and it became a haven of rest and a strong-
hold of courage.
The coming of this sturdy New England family had a wide influence
not only on the future of this community but on this part of the Central West
as well. During that first year, each Sunday Deacon Tanner called together
the scattered families of the prairie and conducted religious services in his
own log cabin, which one of his daughters had called the Range.
It was Dr. J. M. Sturtevant who first saw the spot where Waverly now
stands, in April 1830. He thought the location pleasant and favorable for a
town. It was probably due to his influence that the sturdy New England
families, now on their western trek, chose this beautiful spot in which to
make their homes. What hardships were encountered, what determination
it took to lay the foundation of a new life in Central Illinois between the
years 1830 and 1840, the men of the present day can have little conception.
Waverly has many tender thoughts for those early families and is
proud of her rich heritage.
APPALONIA
Prior to 1836, a village plot under the name of Appalonia had been
surveyed and some attempts to found a town had been made. Several
cabins, a blacksmith shop, and a post office has been established. A Meth-
odist Church was subsequently erected. Although vigorous efforts were
made to build up a prosperous town, the attempt was unavailing by reason
of the location of Waverly in 1836, only two miles away. The post office,
however, was retained until 1847; then it was removed to Waverly on
account of a change in the stage route for passengers and mail. William
Deatherage was the first postmaster.
Appalonia received its name from Apple Creek, near which it was
situated.
WAVERLY
"Waverly was laid off May 18, 1836, by C. J. Salter, with James D. B.
Salter, Alexander C. Twinning and J. A. Tanner. They appropriated one
section (640 acres) for the educational interest of the town. A school build-
ing, with a boarding house was erected. Waverly is the second town in
size in the County. It is situated in a most beautiful farming country, has
many fine public and private residences, and is inhabited by a moral and
industrious people."
Page Eight
THE EARLY GROWTH OF WAVERLY
The founding of Waverly is one of the results of the coming of several
young men from Yale University, known as the -'Yale Band," who estab-
lished Illinois College at Jacksonville, the first college in Illinois. In 1835
Richard Yates and J. E. Spillman received the first college degrees con-
ferred in Illinois. One of their acquaintances, Cleveland J. Salter, a young
businessman of New Haven, became imbued with the same spirit and made
a tour West in 1834, visiting Jacksonville. Upon the advice of his friends
he purchased 5,000 acres of land in the southeastern part of Morgan
County, having as associates his brother, James D. B. Salter, Alexander C.
Twinning and Joseph A. Tanner, and they planned to build a town with a
theological seminary as the centralizing force. Before the close of the year
1835 a brick seminary was erected and a boarding house built. The sem-
inary was located just north of the present Congregational Church, and the
boarding house on the southeast corner of the square, being occupied today
as the residence of the Mr. Charles Dikis family. Mrs. Margaret Rodgers
grandmother of Mrs. Dikis, in the early day operated the only public
weighing scales. Early in 1836, the town having been platted, town lots
were offered for sale. Mr. Salter and his associates were very busy, build-
ing their schools, selling lots in Waverly, and making a home for themselves.
The money panic of 1837 seems not to have caused trouble, as the area was
largely self-sustaining and news scarce, so life in Illinois moved calmly on.
For many years the seminary thrived and was known as one of the
foremost educational institutions of the state, to which students came from
great distances. Though successful for a time, the venerable institution
could not withstand the competition of Illinois College which being located
on a railroad, outstripped its younger rival.
With the closing of the seminary, Waverly was fated to a place of
isolation and no importance, unless the great dreams of the young town
were realized — the securing of a railroad. To this end the citizens put
forth increased effort, their labors being crowned with success on that
memorable day early in December, 1870, when the first train steamed into
Waverly on the Jacksonville, Northwestern and Southeastern Railroad. Ten
years later a second railroad, connecting the town with Springfield, was
constructed, and Waverly 's continued development was assured.
The story of the early days of Waverly reads like a novel, so interest-
ing was the life of the people. In keeping with this romantic period, the
town was named after Sir Walter Scotfs famous Waverley novels, the name
having been given by James D. B. Salter, who at that time was a young
man in school and a great admirer of Scott. Life centered in those days
at the Log Range (a name which had degenerated from "LaGrange") and
Cook & Eastman's flour and saw mill, those two place of renown being
located on the southwest border of the present confines of the city. The
post office was known as Apple Creek.
The first store keepers were Carter & Starr, "Billy Rhodes and James
Parkkinson." In 1846, John S. Crain opened a store, and within the next
few years others were opened. The first bank was established in 1870 by
Crain, Manson & Company.
April 16, 1878, Waverly, which had heretofore been an incorporated
village, began its existence as a city with Henry M. Miller as the first mayor.
Page Nine
The first newspaper was the Waverly Gazette, established June 24,
1869, by Miles J. Abbott and W. D. Pemberton.
The following are a few of Waverly 's first and most prominent early
settlers:
Professor Edward A. Tanner, A.M., was a native of Waverly, Illinois.
He was the youngest child of Joseph A. and Or a Tanner, who were old
settlers in Morgan County, though formerly from Warren, Conn. The an-
cestors of the family were English. They moved to Morgan County about
1834, and located on a farm.
Professor Tanner entered Illinois College at the age of fifteen, and
graduated therefrom in 1857, receiving the degree of A.B. After finishing
his collegiate course, he taught in the public schools of Waverly and Jack-
sonville for a period of three years. He was then called to the professor-
ship of Latin in Pacific University, Oregon, and filled that position for four
years. In the meantime, having studied theology, he was licensed to preach
by the Congregational Association of Oregon in 1864.
In 1865 he was appointed Professor of Latin in Illinois College, and
he officiated four years as chaplain of the Insane Asylum at Jacksonville.
As an eminent educator, Prof. Tanner held front rank in the state, being
a scholar of fine classical culture and solid erudition. He was married
June 27, 1861, to Miss Marion L. Brown, daughter of Dr. I. H. Brown, of
Waverly. Her parents were formerly from Connecticut. Prof, and Mrs.
Tanner had a family of four children. In politics, the Professor was a
Republican.
Honorable Newton C. Cloud was born in Stokes County, North Carolina,
November 29, 1804. He removed, with his parents, to Logan (now called
Simpson) County, Kentucky, where he remained until the fall of 1828, when
he came to Morgan County, and settled on the farm. He was married,
February 15, 1825, to Miss Elizabeth C. Wood, of Warren County, Kentucky.
They had nine children. Mr. Cloud became a local Methodist preacher in
1827, and was among the pioneer clergymen who first preached in Morgan
County. He had an active experience of forty-five years as a preacher, and
a full record as a statesman. He was first elected to the legislature in
1830, and was re-elected for sixteen subsequent sessions, serving in both
branches and making for himself a noble political record of thirty-four years.
He was canal commissioner for a term of two years, and also a delegate
to revise the State Constitution in 1847, over which body he was called to
preside. He was speaker of the house during one session. His political
record was brilliant, reflecting credit upon his constituents as well as him-
self. He acted fearlessly and honestly for justice and right, regardless of
the fear or favor of men. He died in 1877 and is buried in Rogers Cemetery
southwest of Waverly.
The book, "Old Settlers of Morgan County 1872", page 62, relates the
following interesting life history of:
Henry M. Miller, the only son of Ebenezer Miller, was born in Litch-
field, Connecticut, January 23, 1826. He came to Morgan County with his
father in the fall of 1840. His father was well known, for years, to most of
the citizens of the county on account of his prominent position, which he
in early life assumed, as an opponent of slavery. His wife, Pernelia, was
a daughter of Joseph H. Hopkins of Litchfield.
Page Ten
Mr. Miller was among the prominent fruit growers of the county,
and conspicuous in the nursery business, especially in the growing of Osage
hedge plants. He had, for the spring trade of 1873, over 3,000,000 plants.
He introduced the first plants into this part of the country, and with Pro-
fessor Tanner, was one of the important pioneers in this new form of fenc-
ing. "Mr. Miller was highly esteemed for his upright business habits,
honesty in his dealings, and for his many virtues as a Christian and citizen."
THE REVISED ORDINANCES
OF THE
CITY OF WAVERLY, ILLINOIS
Revised and arranged by Richard Yates, Attorney at Law
Published by authority of the city council.
Virden, Ills.
Record Book and Job Press — 1888
AN ORDINANCE
PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE REVISED
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF WAVERLY.
Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Waverly . . .
Section 1. That the ordinances governing said city including the
ordinance entitled, "An Ordinance in Revision and Consolidation of the
General Ordinance of the City of Waverly," Passed on the 12th day of
October, A.D. 1888, and approved November 13th, A.D. 1888, as revised and
published in book form, to be styled, "The Revised Ordinances of the City
of Waverly."
Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from
and after its passage.
Approved November 13th, A.D. 1888.
F. H. Wemple, Mayor
STATE OF ILLINOIS
City of Waverly, Morgan County,
I, Gelman Ford, City Clerk of the City of
Waverly, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of
an ordinance entitled, "An Ordinance in Revision and Consolidation of the
General Ordinances of the City of Waverly", passed by the City Council
of said city, on the 13th day of November, A.D. 1888.
I further certify that the original ordinance, of which the foregoing
is a certified copy, is by law intrusted to my custody for safe keeping, and
is on file in my office.
Witness my hand and the corporate seal of said city, this 13th day
of November, A.D. 1888.
(seal) Gilman Ford, City Clerk
Page Eleven
CHAPTER I
ADDITIONS
Section 1. Any addition which may be made to the City of Waverly,
or any lands within the same which may be surveyed and laid out into lots
and blocks, shall be so laid out, surveyed and platted, as that the blocks
or other subdivisions thereof shall conform to the regular blocks of the
addition or additions adjoining which proposed addition or subdivision, and
the streets and alleys shall correspond with, and conform to, the previously
established streets and alleys with which they may connect, and shall con-
tinue the same.
Section 2. Any owner or agent of real estate, who may wish to lay
out any addition or subdivision of lands, within said city, shall submit his
map or plat of such proposed addition or sub-division to the City Council, and
obtain their approval of the same, which approval shall be certified thereon
by the city clerk, before selling or offering for sale any lot or block in such
proposed addition or sub-division, under a penalty of one hundred dollars,
and a further penalty of fifty dollars for each lot, or part thereof, so sold
by him, contrary to the provisions of this section.
CHAPTER II
Animals
ARTICLE I
animals — impounding and sale of
Section 3. It shall be unlawful for any pig, hog, bull, steer, cow,
heifer, calf, goat, jennet, horse, mare, or colt to be found herded, picketed
or depastured or otherwise going or running at large on any street, alley,
unenclosed highway, park, or other public or private property within the
corporate limits of the city of Waverly, and every animal so found is hereby
declared a nuisance.
Section 4. It is hereby made the duty of the City Marshal and all
police officers of said city, to take up and confine in a secure pen, pound,
or other place provided for that purpose any and every animal running at
large in violation of the preceding section.
Section 5. Any adult person inconvenienced or injured, or who may
be in danger of being injured, either in his person or property, by reason of
the unlawful running at large in the city of any animal herein before men-
tioned, may (but without compensation) take and drive such animal to the
city pound, and it shall be the duty of the pound keeper to receive and im-
pound the same.
Section 415. Speed Limits: No person shall ride or drive, or cause
to be ridden or driven, any horse or other animal, or drive or propel, or
cause to be driven or propelled, any cab, carriage, wagon or other animal-
drawn vehicle upon any street or public way in the city at a greater speed
than at the rate of ten miles per hour under penalty of not less than Five
Dollars nor more than Fifty Dollars for each offense.
Section 421. Auction of Animals: No person shall show or expose for
Page Twelve
sale at auction, any horse or other animal in any public way in the City,
under a penalty of not more than Five Dollars for every offense.
Section 425. Exhibition of Dangerous Animals: No person shall per-
mit any bear or other dangerous animal to run at large, nor lead any such
animal with a chain or rope, or other appliance, whether such animal be
muzzled or unmuzzled, in any street, avenue, lane, highway or public place
within the City, under a penalty of not more than Ten Dollars for each
offense.
Section 430. Flipping Cars or Vehicles: No minor under the age of
eighteen years shall clinb, onto or cling to, or in any way attach himself or
herself to any vehicle or any railroad locomotive or automobile or car of
any kind while the same is in motion, under a penalty of not less than Two
Dollars nor more than Ten Dollars for each offense.
Section 451. Possession of Burglar's Tools: It shall be unlawful for
any person to have in his possession any nippers of the description known
as burglar's nippers, pick lock, skeleton key, key to be used with a bit or
bits, jimm, or other burglar's instrument or tool of whatsoever kind or de-
scription, unless it to be shown that such possession is innocent or for a
lawful purpose, under a penalty of not less than Fifty Dollars nor more than
One Hundred Dollars for each offense.
Section 452. Loafing: No person shall obstruct or encumber any
street corner or other public place in the City by lounging in or about the
same after being requested to move on by any police officer; any person
violating any of the provisions of this section shall be fined not less than
Five Dollars nor more than Fifty Dollars for each offense.
Section 458. Killing Birds: No person shall kill or wound, or attempt
to kill or wound, by the use of fire arms, sling shot, bow and arrow, or other
weapons, any bird within the City limits; and any person violating any of
the provisions of this section shall be fined not less than Five Dollars nor
more than Twenty-five Dollars for each offense.
Section 460. Orange Peel, etc., on Sidewalk: No person shall throw,
cast, lay or place on any sidewalk in the City the rind or peel of any orange,
banana, apple or other fruit, under a penalty of not less than Two Dollars
nor more than Twenty Dollars for each offense.
Section 473. Lottery Tickets: No person shall vend, give away or
otherwise dispose of any lottery tickets.
Section 476. Sale and Use of Explosives: That no person shall sell or
offer for sale, within the City limits of the City of Waverly, any dynamite
caps, giant crackers, blank cartridges or toy cannons.
Section 477. Selling Goods on Sunday: Whoever keeps open any
place of business for the purpose of vending goods, wares or merchandise
on Sunday (except in case of necessity or charity, and except in the case
of drug stores, which may be kept open for sole purpose of filling medical
prescriptions and selling medicines) shall, upon conviction, be fined not
less than Twenty-five Dollars nor more than Two Hundred Dollars for every
offense.
That no person shall keep or run any shooting gallery or place for
target shooting in the City of Waverly, and any person so offending shall be
fined not less than Five Dollars nor more than Fifty Dollars for each offense.
Page Thirteen
No person, upon turning the corner of any street or crossing the in-
tersection of any street in the City, shall ride or drive any horse or other
animal with greater speed than at the rate of 4 miles per hour, under a
penalty of not more than Ten Dollars for each offense.
No person shall spit upon any public sidewalk or upon the floor of
any public conveyance, or upon the floor of any theater, assembly room,
or public building, under penalty of not less than One Dollar nor more than
Five Dollars for each offense.
Catalog of City Officers of the City of Waverly
April 1891 to April 1916
The following is a catalog of officers of the City of Waverly, Illinois,
by year, beginning with those elected on the third Tuesday in April, 1891.
On Christmas Eve, 1891, a fire occurred which destroyed all the buildings
on the west side of the square as far north as the Crain building, and at
that time the City records were destroyed.
At the election held on the third Tuesday in April, 1891, the following
ticket was elected:
Mayor Edward Wemple City Attorney F. H. Hanley
City Clerk F. S. Dennis Treasurer C. A. Root
Aldermen
First Ward J. M. Joy and William Wright
Second Ward I. H. Coe and W. A. Jones
Third Ward William Zoll and Robert Bowyer
Shortly after this election, W. A. Jones, William Zoll, Robert Bowyer
and William Wright resigned. At a special election held to fill the vacancies
so created, the following were elected: C. Romang, J. R. Chamber, Wiley
Todd, and D. C. Calhoun.
(Get the remainder on Page 8 — The Waverly Code 1916, Chapter 1,
Page 7-12, Waverly Carnegie Library.)
From: ATLAS MAP OF MORGAN COUNTY 1872
Census of 1870 — Waverly Township
Population — 2464 Number of sheep — 1,672
Number of dwellings — 470 Number of swine — 4,726
Number of farms — 267 Bushels of wheat — 32,718
Acres improved — 33,573 Bushels of corn — 299,670
Number of horses — 1,266 Bushels of rye — 349
Number of mules — 644 Bushels of oats — 22,076
Number of voters — 560
Population (census) of 1910 — 1,538
Page Fourteen
ELECTIONS
Jacksonville Courier "News, Views, Century Ago.''
April 14, 1968
"The municipal election at Waver ly on Monday resulted in Demo-
cratic triumph. The Democrats elected a majority of the town trustees,
as follows: W. W. Deatherage, S. S. Agard, J. P. Stice, J. B. Cooper. The
radicals elected Robert McKee."
Waverly Journal, November 21, 1947 (Waverly Journal, April 18, 1878)
The Journal in 1878 was called Morgan Journal, published by Milton
M. Meacham, father of Elmer Meacham. Judging from the amount of
space given to it, the principal topic of interest in this and other central
Illinois communities at that time was the temperance question. There
were reports from Waverly and elsewhere about the temperance movement.
Apparently, the nominating of candidates on Republican and Democratic-
tickets for the local city elections was not in vogue then as it is now, for
the result of the caucus nominating candidate on the Temperance ticket
was published, the list of candidates nominated being as follows:
Mayor — Ancil R. Dennis
Aldermen — H. M. Miller, N. J. Stratton, A. L. Kimber, R. L.
Carter, E. Kent, F. H. Wemple
City Clerk — John H. Goldsmith
City Treasurer — William W. Hutchinson
City Attorney — C. F. Meacham
Quoting Editor Meacham, "This was a good ticket and deserved the
support of the voters."
Page Fifteen
¥ M ass, «
,wL^ ^
<s\// x" — X") ^yf^W-
^0
ms^'v
-m r- ■ 6
£S=Bi
V
Rain
\r
^
w*
OUR MA MY
if
«
vvj
•3PP RS
as
V.
I >-)
V£
Mjj
Page Sixteen
OUR MANY "FIRSTS"
The first settler in this part of the county was Milton Shurtleff, who
located on Section 11, about 1822. Among the other early settlers were John
Hunt, James Lowden, Michael Miller, Jacob Beach, Rev. Isaac Conlee,
Joseph Thomas, Nicholas Russell, Fleming C. Moupin, John Turner, Joseph
Wise, and Jacob Caruthers.
The first marriage here was that of Mr. Christopher Columbus Ash-
baugh to Miss Elizabeth Thomas. He was the grandfather of Mr. Fred
Ashbaugh.
Into the Tanner family was born on November 29th, 1837. a son,
Edward Allen Tanner, the first child who could claim nativity in the new
frontier town of Waverly. Left fatherless at six months, this boy was to
develop through years of struggle against hardship and dangers of a pioneer
life. To a saintly mother, this son of pioneer parents looked for guidance.
Perhaps it was her tenderness through the years that made the man what
he was: sensitive, sound, fearless, and God-fearing.
Young Edward Tanner received his early education at the seminary
in Waverly and at the age of thirteen entered the preparatory department
of Illinois College at Jacksonville. After he finished school, he taught for
some years "board around."
Rev. William Rogers preached the first sermon here, at the home of
Rev. Isaac Conlee. He was a Baptist clergyman and was well known in
this community.
The first school in this neighborhood was taught by John Scott. It
was, like all other schools of the day, paid by subscription; the compensa-
tion was peltry and bees-wax, the currency of that period.
The first death was that of Henry, son of John Hunt, in 1827.
Elisha Filley resided in the southeastern part of Waverly; he was a
carpenter by trade and built the first house in town.
The first Justice of the Peace was Thomas P. Ross.
The first Constable was Jacob Talkington.
First shipment of livestock over the new railroad was made from
Waverly on Monday morning, December 8, 1870, by Mr. M. S. Kennedy.
It consisted of about one hundred head of fine cattle.
City Mail Delivery established in Waverly in 1919.
June 20, 1922 — Mr. H. E. Funk of West State Street was the owner
of the first radio. "Mr. Funk believed that what is worth doing at all is
worth doing well." He installed in his home the best type of receiving set,
with two stages of amplification, and Magnavox amplifying horn; and with
the assistance of T. S. Harris, he was prepared to take care of the radio
trade in Waverly.
The Waverly Journal of October 7, 1966, published an article stating
Toastmasters International's wish to place an appropriate marker in Waver-
ly in recognition of Mr. Ralph C. Smedley, founder of the organization.
The son of Mr. and Mrs. T. B. (Doc) Smedley, he was born February 22,
1877, in the home now occupied by Miss Mattie Deatherage. The club or-
ganized in Santa Ana, California. Purpose: to teach and practice public
speaking. Today there are 3600 clubs in 50 nations and territories. The
marker is located near the northwest corner of Salter Park.
Page Seventeen
In June, 1968, three Toastmaster's Clubs and two Toastmistress'
Clubs of Springfield, enjoyed a picnic dinner in Salter Park and conducted
their business session at the monument to Dr. Smedley. District officers
from Illlinois and Missouri were in attendance. The district governor Adam
Bock said district activities in the future will be held in Waverly.
Only isolated items have been placed in this chapter. Other "Firsts"
have been included in the Chapters to which they were related.
MAYOR'S PROCLAMATION
Memorial Day
In pursuance of a proclamation issued
by the Governor calling upon the people of this
State to observe the 30th day of May as Memo-
rial Day, therefore
I, John F. Rice, mayor of the city of Waver-
ly, do hereby request the people of this city to
close their respective places of business between
the hours of 1 o'clock and 5 o'clock p.m. of that
day, and assist in the ceremonies to be observed
in East Cemetery in honor of the dead heroes
therein buried.
Given under my hand this 22nd day of May,
A.D. 1883.
John F. Rice, Mayor
MEMORIAL DAY
Program of Exercises
Assembly call in the Park at 1 o'clock, by Martial Band.
Forming of Procession, and music by Cornet Band.
AT THE CEMETERY
Music by Cornet Band.
Singing by Glee Club.
Prayer by Rev. W. A. Hobbs.
Oration, by Rev. G. E. Scrimger.
Singing by Glee Club.
Speech.
Music by Cornet Band.
Extemporaneous Speeches by Old Soldiers.
Singing by Glee Club.
Permanent Secretary's Report.
Report of Standing Committee.
Appointments for ensuing year.
Prayer, by Rev. J. K. Miller.
Decorating graves, and music by the Martial Band.
Military Salute, by Old Soldiers.
Music by Cornet Band.
Page Eighteen
Pit.
V:,
OUR
F
O/ J
DERh
PA J
r.
Page Nineteen
PRIMITIVE BAPTIST CHURCH
This account tells of the organization and some history of the "Head
of Apple Creek Church"; also of the part "Elder Isaac Conlee" had in the
church, and some of his early life.
Isaac Conlee was born in Green County, Tenn., May 7, 1795, and he
moved with his parents to Barren County, Ky., in 1801. He married Sarah
McDonald in 1814, and in 1816 they with several other pioneer families
settled ten miles south of Edwardsville. Illinois. In 1824 Isaac and family
came to Morgan County and settled four miles south of the present site of
Waverly, Illinois.
Isaac and his father. John Conlee, were both ordained ministers of
the Primitive Baptist Church. Elder Isaac Conlee was one of the organizers
of the Primitive Baptist Church in 1828, called "Head of Apple Creek,"
which is now located in Waverly, Illinois. Its first location was near Rohrer
Station, 1828. A log building was first used in the edge of the timber with
only trails by it. It is supposed the "Conlee Cemetery" was started near
this old church, as many tomb stones have dates in the 1830's.
In 1832, after roads were laid out, a frame building was built about
% mile north east of the log church, on the west side of the road on the
James P. Stice farm 3 and \-> miles south of Waverly. A well on the east
side of the road is all that marks that site.
The present building in Waverly was bought, remodeled, and dedicated
in 1912, and the former building was sold. Services have been held con-
tinuously since the first organization.
Elder Isaac Conlee covered a large area in his preaching activities,
churches being 20 to 30 or 40 miles apart, going horseback, for which he
received no compensation. His support was derived mostly from tilling the
soil, and earlier from mills. He built the first horse mill in the spring of
1829, another in 1837 in which business he was engaged until 1846. Elder
Conlee lived many years in the north part of Waverly, having continued
as a minister of the gospel for more than fifty years, quitting only when
his health failed. He died July 19, 1879, and he and many of his descendants
are buried in the Conlee cemetery.
Many other ministers have been pastors of this church down through
the years. Elder John A. Conlee, a resident of Waverly and a grandson of
Isaac Conlee, was pastor for many years; also Elder I. E. Sutton of Girard,
111., and Elder Baxter Hale, Carlinville, Illinois, all deceased. More re-
cently, Elder J. Bryan Adair of Atlanta, Mo., was pastor for 14 years.
Elder James Harris of Palmyra, Illinois, is the present pastor.
Most of the present members live a distance from the church, but they
attend services regularly on Saturday at 3 P.M. and 7 P.M. before the third
Sunday of each month and at 10:30 on Sunday.
Dated March 1, 1968
Mrs. John M. Anderson
Great Granddaughter of Isaac Conlee
HISTORY OF THE FiRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
OF WAVERLY, ILLINOIS
The town of Waverly was first settled in 1835 and the church one year
later, on June 15th, 1836.
Page Twenty
The history of the Congregational Church really starts at the time
of C. J. Salter's purchasing 5,000 acres in this part of Illinois.
Deacon Joseph Tanner, an agent for a business company headed by
the Salters, arrived with a small band of settlers, and settled at the head
of Apple Creek, west of the southwest border of the present town, on Monday,
April 20, 1835. It took them just three weeks to come from Warren, Connec-
ticut. They lived in a log cabin, which one of his daughters named the
"Range." The cabin was built in 1829 by Mr. Shurtleff, who decided the
weather was too cold and so went back where he came from.
The first Sunday after their arrival, April 26, 1835, he held a religious
service in his home for the families that were scattered across the prairies.
A year later on June 15, 1836, Dr. J. M. Sturtevant helped organize
the Waver ly church. At that time there were only eight adults to become
members. They were- Joseph Tanner, Mrs. Lucy Tanner, Theodore E.
Curtiss, Miss Huldah Lucinda Tanner, Miss Lucy Swift, Miss Susan Eliza
Tanner, Cyrus Tanner, and Mrs. Orra Tanner. Deacon C. J. Salter was out
of town at the time, and was not present to become a charter member.
However, he returned to Waverly and became a very influential leader in
the church and community for over forty years. At this time the members
voted to call it the "Church of Christ"; shortly after it was changed to the
Congregational Church.
The first church services were held in the seminary from 1836 to 1851.
The school was built in 1835 and stood north of the present Congregational
Church. The school was to be a preparatory school for the college in Jack-
sonville. That dream never came true, but it was well organized and had
good teachers. The settlers built a brickyard and made the bricks for the
school and C. J. Salter's country home, which was the first brick home in
Waverly. It is the present home of William Neuman.
In 1847 the plans were made for a building for church services. The
site was the one where the church is now. The men of the congregation
worked for over three years to build the church. They established a saw
mill south of town, where there was plenty of timber to be had. The stones
were brought by wagon from a quarry nine miles away. The contract for
the labor was given in 1848 to Chauncey Root. Homer Curtiss, C. J. Salter,
and George Carter were on the building committee. Most of the timbers
were made by hand and put together with large frame bents. It is said
that there is half a millstone from the old grist mill that stood southwest
of town, in the foundation. The cornerstone was the hearthstone from the
Joseph Tanner home. It cost $2,260 to build, not counting the lot it is on.
There was no prayer meeting room, nor outside vestibule in the original
building. A gallery extended across the south end, and the vestibule was
within the church under that.
On February 4, 1851, a new pastor, Rev. James Weller, was ordained,
and at that time the building was also dedicated. Many ministers and
delegates came from far and near to be present at this time.
A cabinet organ was bought in January, 1866, and was put over the
front entrance in the gallery. The choir also sat up there.
In 1875, Rev. C. W. Clapp was pastor, and a pipe organ was bought
in Boston, Massachusetts, for $1,000. It was also put in the south end of
the church. The organ is still in use, though it is now converted to electricity.
In 1879 to 1881, Rev. C. C. Salter was the pastor, and the church was
remodeled. They removed the gallery and put the organ where it is today,
Page Twenty-one
behind the pulpit. A vestibule was built on the front, and west of the prayer
meeting room in the rear, they built a library. They had a library of several
hundred good books for the use of the public. Years later, this collection
was the start of a public library, which later became our present library.
The old parsonage was sold in 1882 for $900, and they built a new
one for $3,000.
The church was again remodeled in 1925 with new floors, carpets,
and heavy oak pews installed. They also put in new lighting, and a Sunday
School room was made from the auditorium on each side of the pulpit.
This made the main part a little smaller. While the work was going on,
the services were held in the Episcopal Church for some weeks. The old
Episcopal Church is now the Lutheran Church. Dr. F. S. Tincher was the
pastor at the time, and the church was rcdedicated Sunday, May 2, 1926.
He conducted a campaign which resulted in enough money to pay the whole
cost of the repairs.
There is no record available of the musical service during worship,
though in 1847, M. M. Peet was "empowered to control and regulate his
school for singing in said building and to keep order in same during the
nights of singing." The singing school was sponsored by the members of
the church.
Organ music is a joyous part of worship service. Among the faithful
organists during the past 30 years are: Miss Shirley Mader (Mrs. Wm.
Lynch), Mr. Herbert Miller, Mrs. Roy Fairbanks, and Mrs. Ruth Wilson.
We appreciate the guest organists also. During a number of years, Mrs.
Wilson M. Smith organized and directed a teen vesper choir which enriched
our services. We are happy to have Mrs. John Woods, our present organist.
The members of the Church have enjoyed new hymnals, individually
purchased, and the reconditioned organ.
In 1968 the auditorium was given a "New Look." The carefully
planned work of the decorating committee was most rewarding. The finan-
cial response fron non-residents as well as from resident members was more
than satisfactory. All the expenses of the decorating were fully met. We
were "pepped up" a bit.
Five years later, 1963, the Church was damaged by fire, the amount
of damage being $3,000. The insurance and donations from the members
took care of the disaster, even to the laying of new carpets. However,
there was one loss that could not be replaced: The painting of the church
by William Horstman, in memory of his mother. It was hanging in the
badly damaged vestibule
"During this 30-year period, the Congregational Church united with
the Evangelical and Reformed Church, accepting the Constitution and
Official name: The United Church of Christ. The parsonage on W. Tremont
Street was sold and the church was painted again "New England Village
White."
The Church is mindful of and appreciative of the gifts received during
these 30 years: the new Communion Cup holders and the pulpit light by the
late Mrs. E. C. Everett in memory of her daughter, Gertrude; a $1,000 check
and the porch step railings by Mrs. Mary Moffet; the Bulletin Board by Mrs.
Alice Everett Gould and Mrs. Floyd Dossett in memory of Mr. and Mrs. E.
C. Everett, Miss Addie Everett, and Mrs. Dossett's brother, Edwin Busch,
who died in service in 1943.
Page Twenty-two
The Church is deeply grateful for being so well remembered by the
late Samuel T. Smetters: under his will dated May 10, 1961, we quote, "a
bequest was made that the net income from eighty acres of farm land be
paid to the First Congregational Church of Waver ly, Illinois, beginning in
the year 1964, and until the younger David McConnell attains the age of
twenty-five, his birthday being August 12, 1949," unquote. Therefore the
church will receive the income annually until August 12, 1974, from the
First National Bank of Springfield, Illinois which is acting as Trustee under
the terms of the will.
In 1966 the entire Church building was insulated and gas heat installed.
The Church is very conscious of the thoughtfulness and careful plan-
ning of the Official Board during these many years. We say thank you all
at this time.
The closing words of Rev. Mr. Kelly in completing his historical state-
ment of the 100th anniversary were, "There are sacred memories clustering
around this Church. We cherish these memories with warm affection and
constant gratitude. We recognize the guiding hand of God in our years of
service. We trust in his continued favor and blessing in the years to come."
METHODIST CHURCH
The following account is a synopsis of a history compiled and read by
Mrs. Leslie Kumler at the celebration of the 100th and 50th anniversaries
of the Methodist Church in Waverly, in the Fall of 1967.
Peter Cartwright came to this section of Illinois in 1824 and in 1826
became the Presiding Elder of Sangamon District (Sangamon and Morgan
Counties) of the Illinois Conference.
The Apple Creek Circuit was organized September 20, 1827. Newton
Cloud came to Appalonia in 1827 and preached his first sermon in the home
of John Wyatt. For three years the Circuit included all preaching points
in Morgan County. After September, 1830, Morgan was divided into Apple
Creek and Jacksonville Circuits. Waverly was one of the points in Jackson-
ville Circuit.
The Waverly Church was organized about 1840 at the home of James
Hutchinson. This house was known as the old "Woodmansee" house. Meet-
ings were held there until the house became too small to accommodate the
growing Society. Through the kindness of the Protestant Episcopal Church
members, the Methodists held services in the new Episcopal Church erected
in 1844, on the corner of Elm and Prospect Streets. Later, this site was
occupied by the M. E. Church South, also remembered as the Soule Chapel.
The first Methodist Church building was erected in 1845 on the site of
the present Catholic Church. It was a frame structure called the Bethel
Meeting House. Waverly had been changed from a "point" on a circuit to
a "station," requiring a resident pastor, about 1853, and the first parsonage
was purchased.
The dedication services for the new Church took place during the
morning service; in the afternoon, two funeral sermons were preached in
memory of two ladies, sisters of Mr. Samuel Woods, who had died some
time previously. During the funeral services the foundation of the church
gave way, causing the walls to sway. This condition caused a panic among
the people, and they rushed pell mell through windows and doors being held
open by the men. As a result of this accident the entire service was quite
Page Twenty-three
ridiculous, and many stories, and even a poem or two, have been quoted,
based on the happenings of this memorable day in Waver ly.
About 1865 the church building was sold to the Catholic congregation.
A substantial brick church was begun on the same site as our present build-
ing, and took nearly two years to finish. The cornerstone was laid in 1856,
but the dedication was not held until 1867. It was quite an occasion. People
began arriving by six a.m. and services were held continuously until mid-
night. Sermons, singing, and thanksgiving talks filled the day.
In 1908 improvements were made to the interior of the church. It
soon was apparent a larger building was needed. After two or three years
of discussion, definite plans developed. At an official board meeting, early
in December of 1916, it was voted to start a campaign for sufficient money
to justify the beginning of the work. On Sunday, April 6, 1917, the farewell
services were held, and soon the old building was torn down. During the
following months regular services were held in the Crain Opera House.
The new building was ready for dedication November 25, 1917. Bishop
Quayle had charge of the services. Many former pastors attended this
service.
The first organ was a gift to the church. It had only one stop, which,
when pulled out, threw on its full power. In 1908, when improvements were
made to the interior of the church, a new Hook Hastings pipe organ was
installed at a cost of $1600. This project was sponsored by the Queen
Esther Class.
September, 1960, the official board appointed a committee to investi-
gate the repairing, rebuilding or purchasing of a new organ, either pipe or
electronic. The committee decided to purchase a new organ and to remodel
the Chancel. The dedication on November 24, 1963, was in the form of a
recital given by the organist from the First Methodist Church of Springfield.
Miss Mattie Deatherage served many years as organist, and Mrs. Wilson
Smith is directing the choir for the second time and deserves much praise
for her excellent work.
There are many important activities connected with the church — the
Sunday School with classes for all ages, and the Woman's Society of Chris-
tian Service.
The Vacation Bible School has been a strong factor in Christian edu-
cation and one of the strongest assets of the church.
There have been numerous bequests from members over the years,
that have helped immeasurably in the growth of the church.
In 1938 the M. E. Church North and the M. E. Church South united
under the name Methodist Church, and at a conference held at Dallas,
Texas, in the spring of 1968 the Evangelical United Brethren united with
the Methodist and the name was changed to the "United Methodist Church."
Many pastors have served the Waverly Church efficiently, and faith-
fully over the years.
CHRISTIAN CHURCH
The Christian Church records reveal that the first meeting was held
on February 10, 1849, and plans were made to erect a church. The second
meeting was held May 13, 1849. An odd note about the second meeting was
that Waverly was 13 years old at this time: the meeting was held on the
13th and 13 members were added to the congregation that day.
Page Twenty-four
The original thirteen members were: J. M. Thrasher, Caroline R.
Thrasher, M. M. Lane, Caroline Lane, William Campbell, Ruth Campbell.
Silas Sims, Rachael Heaton, A. Kinkead, Amanda Sims, G. Kinkead, Dianna
Ham and Mary Hanley.
The first church clerk and secretary was J. M. Thrasher. The first
church meetings were held at the Methodist church and the old brick school.
The rent for the use of the Methodist church was fifty cents.
A number of the members of the church died during the cholera epi-
demic of 1851.
In the early days of the local church, members were often 'excluded'
for dancing, swearing, neglect of meeting, and drinking. The records reveal
that some were 'reclaimed.'
Communion in the early days was served from two silver goblets. The
Deacons filled the goblets from a silver pitcher. The church has one of the
original goblets.
The first church stood on the same corner as the present church —
Tremont and Brook. Robert Smith, father of the late Wilson M. Smith,
purchased the first church and moved it to Prairie Street. It is now a part
of the home of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Romang. Services were held in the
first church until 1891.
John Henry laid the corner stone of the present church, and the Ma-
sonic lodge took part in the ceremony. The contractors for the second
church building were Wm. D. Meacham and Floyd Epling. The second
church was dedicated October 25, 1881, and Rev. F. M. Rains, of Topeka,
Kansas, gave the dedication address.
The basement of the second church was added during the pastorate
of Rev. E. C. Lucas.
Miss Bea Harney (the late Mrs. Guy Williamson) organized the first
Christian Endeavor group and also served as president of the first Mission-
ary group.
Some of the early organized Sunday School classes were the Loyalty,
Baracca, Delta Alpha, and N. G. U. The Loyal Volunteer class was or-
ganized March 23, 1923, at the home of Rev. and Mrs. James N. Thomas,
with Mrs. Nora W. Challans as class president. Mrs. Dora Edwards is the
present teacher of this class. This class has given much to the church
through the years. Mrs. E. W. Crum was the teacher of the class for
many years.
The J.O.Y. Class was organized in 1940 with Mrs. Guy W. Martin as
teacher. The present teacher is Mrs. Harold J. Lowery. Among the gifts
to the church from this class are the pews and the first electric organ.
One of the highlights in the history of the church was the ordination
in 1901 of Miss Bea Harney. She was married the same day to Guy B.
Williamson. She was present at the rededication of the church in 1959.
On May 17, 1959, during the pastorate of Rev. Robert L. Foster, the
dedication of the remodeled and enlarged church was held. It was also
the 110th anniversary of the church. Rev. John Elliott Foster, father of the
pastor, gave the dedication address. At the morning service Rev. Robert
L. Foster led the congregation in the dedication of the new chancel furni-
ture, baptistry and a number of memorial gifts.
The building committee members for the remodeled church were:
Ralph Bivin, Chairman; William Neuman: Clifford Woods: Leo Lowery;
Page Twenty-five
Harold J. Lowery and Guy W. Martin. The contractors for the remodeling
were Leo Lowery, Clifford Woods, H. C. Duewer, and Watson Chance. Mrs.
Arlene Bernardini, of Taylorville, was the artist who painted the baptistry
mural.
Other special events in the church history include the dedication of
the bulletin board on May 21, 1961; a note-burning service on November 18,
1962; the dedication of the new communion service on October 2, 1966 —
this was given in memory of Mrs. Ella Bradley Weedman; dedication of a
candelabra and candle lighter on December 22, 1963 — this was a memorial
to Mrs. Wilma Doerfler Bateman; and a special service on February 9, 1964,
to honor members who had belonged to a church for 50 years or more.
Ten members were honored: Mrs. Ethel Ritter Hunt, Mrs. Mabel Gates
Moulton, Miss Effie Ritter, Mrs. Ada Elliott Jackson, Mrs. Grace Turner
Ritter, Mrs. Mae Bridges Brown, Mrs. Lily Lyons Teaney, Miss Vena Ash-
baugh, Mrs. Rebecca Mclntyre and Fred Bateman.
The hymnals used at the present time were given by Mr. and Mrs.
Ralph Bivin in memory of their daughter, Connie Lou.
There are 44 known ministers that have served the local church. The
present minister, Rev. James Martin Flanagan, has been with the church
since December 4, 1960. Rev. Flanagan is associate editor of "The Chris-
tian."
Among those who left bequests to the Waverly Christian Church were:
Mrs. Nora Winifred Challans, Mrs. Stella Vandeveer, and Miss Jennie
Hudson.
The present church officers are: Harold J. Lowery, Chairman of the
Board; William Neuman, Treasurer; and Mrs. Margie Lemmons, Church
Clerk. The Sunday School Superintendent is Paul Sadler, and the Junior
Department Superintendent is Charlotte Gaillord.
The church history would not be complete without the mention of a
few that gave years of service to the church: Mrs. Ida Wells, Mrs. Irene
Smith, C. L. Gates, Miss Anna Laws, Miss Lucy Hughes, Mrs. Minnie Bats-
man, Misses Jessie and Effie Ritter, Mrs. Wilma Doerfler Bateman, Mrs.
Edward Nichols, Dr. and Mrs. E. W. Crum, Ed W. Ashbaugh, Mr. and Mrs.
Fred Harney. Mrs. Wilma Doefler Bateman served as organist, pianist,
teacher, and primary superintendent for many years. Mrs. Mabel Neuman
Chance also served for several years as pianist. The presnt organists are
Mrs. Norma Woods and Gary Ross.
Mrs. Ethel Ritter Hunt is the oldest member of the church in years
of church membership. She joined the local church on January 2, 1900.
HISTORY OF THE WAVERLY BAPTIST CHURCH
The Baptist Church first organized August 11, 1855. Worship Service
was held twice a month. J. M. Wells became the first pastor. When first
organized, the church was called the Waverly Missionary Baptist Church
of Jesus Christ and was held in the home of Willis Meacham.
In April, 1861, the house of the Christian Church was rented. The lot
across from the square was bought for the purpose of building a church.
A revival was held from January 20 — February 19, 1873. during
which seventy people found the Saviour. Baptism took place at a pond on
E. D. Meacham's farm.
Page Twenty-six
February 26, 1875, the Providence Baptist Church united with the
Waverly Baptist Church. Collection on Sabbath Day began February, 1875.
June 19, 1875, the Baptist Church building was erected and dedicated
in the service of God. A house and two lots were purchased for a parsonage
in Waverly on December, 1881.
First Sunday School officers were elected January, 1887, and Sunday
school was held after the morning worship service. Plans for a new church
took place in April, 1897. November, 1900, the new church was dedicated.
A pipe organ was purchased in June, 1901. Vacation Bible School
first started in May, 1929. During May, 1932, there were fifty-eight baptized
at Moffet's pond. A new basement was completed for the church and dedi-
cated in June, 1940.
The church bell was installed in March, 1945; and during June, 1952,
redecorating inside and painting of the outside of the church took place.
A painting of Jesus was presented to the church by Mrs. Ollie Dale
and Mrs. Ethel Beatty.
Since 1954, several additions to the church included: New organ pur-
chased by Senior BYF and the Davenport Estate in memory of Mr. and
Mrs. Davenport. Senior BYF also purchased several road signs and an out-
door bulletin board. The Centennial Celebration was held in August, 1955.
February, 1957, the basement of the church was redecorated.
On June 29, 1958, the church voted to construct an educational build-
ing. The estimate of the approximate cost was $23,000. Ground-breaking
ceremonies were held the next month — July, 1958. On May 27, 1962, the
church participated in a service of Dedication. At that time, a mortgage-
burning ceremony was held.
In June 1962, Rev. Kater accepted the call of the First Baptist Church
of Delavan, Illinois. Rev. Eugene Owsley became pastor in August of 1962,
and served until October, 1965. At that time, he became pastor of the First
Baptist Church in Virden, Illinois.
In 1965, a speaker system was installed in the Bridges Nursing Home,
which is just across the street to the south of the church. Residents there
may participate in both the morning and evening Sunday worship services
of the church.
During the past few years, certain physical improvements have been
made in the appearance of the church. New sidewalks have been added;
wrought iron hand rails have been installed on the sidewalk steps; storm
windows of aluminum construction have been placed on the educational
building; and a new outdoor sign has been constructed.
Gerald Cooper has served as minister of the church since June 19, 1966.
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF WAVERLY
The first Catholic priest came to Waverly in 1857, from Carlinville.
In 1858, a congregation was organized and they purchased one of the Meth-
odist houses of worship, which was afterwards known as St. Sebastian
Church of Waverly, under the charge of Reverend Francis X. Schreiber of
New Berlin. In 1873, it was attached to Virden and in 1866 to Franklin. It
has been attached, at different times, to New Berlin, Franklin, Virginia,
and Greenfield. In 1925, it was again attached to Franklin, with Reverend
E. D. Butler in charge.
Page Twenty seven
The first resident pastor was Reverend P. J. O'Reilly in 1836. It then
became a mission of Franklin, Virginia, and Greenfield, in turn. Father
McCauley was the resident priest from 1907 to 1912. In 1912, Father L. C.
Ryan succeeded Reverend P. R. McCauley. He started to repair the church.
He changed it from a wooden church to a brick veneer building. In 1919,
Father Ryan built a sanctuary and installed a new heating plant. Father
Amos E. Guisti was the pastor from 1920-22.
In 1937 the basement was excavated, and a new heating plant and
electric lighting were added. In 1946, the church was decorated and in 1956
it was redecorated.
Father Michael Kearns was the pastor for 21 years, from 1936-57,
having his residence in Franklin. He was also the pastor at Palmyra.
Father Michael Kearns was succeeded by Father Hugh Cassidy as
Pastor in January of 1958. In 1958 the basement hall was remodeled, with
new kitchen facilities installed. In the same year the sanctuary of the
church was remodeled. In 1967 the interior of the church was painted,
with a new portable altar purchased for the implementation of the Liturgical
Decree of the Second Vatican Council.
Father Cassidy resides in Franklin and is also Pastor of Holy Rosary
Church, Palmyra. Since 1959 he has been Director of the Catholic Rural
Life Conference in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
During the summer of 1937 a group of Missouri Synod Lutherans in
and around Waverly met at the home of E. H Wiese and discussed the
possibility of establishing a Church. After consulting with officials of the
Missouri Synod, it was decided to rent the Christ Episcopal Church in
Waverly from the Springfield diocese and to secure the service of Prof.
Richard C. Neitzel, of Concordia Seminary of Springfield as pastor.
The first service was conducted by Prof. Neitzel on February 6. 1938,
with sixty-four in attendance.
The official organization of the Church was February 5, 1939. At this
time it adopted the name "Christ Lutheran Church" and was affiliated with
the Central Illinois District of Missouri Synod. The following is a list of
the Charter Members and their families: Wm. H. Ladage, Jr., Edward
Ladage, Carl Duewer, Fred Duewer, George Duewer, Wm. A. Duewer, Louis
German, David Gerhardt, Marvin Piercy. Charles Rector, Henry Scheele,
Fred Seiz, Wm. A. Duewer and Louis German; Chairman, Ed. H. Wiese;
Miss Rose Luken. Of this group there were 34 communicant members and
60 souls. The following are the first officers of the Church: Board of Elders;
David Gerhardt, Fred Duewer and Wm. H. Ladage, Jr.; Board of Finance;
Fred Ceiz, Wm. A. Duwer and Louis German; Chairman, Ed. H. Wiese;
Vice Chairman, Wm. H. Ladage, Jr.; Secretary, Carl Duewer; Financial
Secretary, George Duewer; and Treasurer, Edward Ladage.
On Sunday, May 14, 1939, the congregation gave the young people per-
mission to organize a Young People's Society. The Society meets every
two weeks with an average attendance of 18 members.
The first confirmation class was confirmed by Prof. Nietzel on May
28, 1939. The first Baptism was on October 23, 1938, by Prof. Nietzel. The
first couple from the Congregation united in marriage was David Gerhardt
Page Twenty-eight
and Rose Luken, February 7. 1940, by Prof. Nietzel. The first funeral serv-
ice was November 29, 1945, by Rev Edward J. Schick.
The former Episcopal Church was rented until June 23, 1939, when it
was purchased and dedicated August. 20, 1939, by Prof. R. C. Nietzel. The
exterior of the church was improved shortly afterwards. In 1944 the base-
ment was dug out and fixed up for Sunday School Classes and Social gather-
ings. In 1949 the interior of the Church was redecorated. The year 1958
saw the front of the Church remodeled, and Rededication Services were
held October 12, 1958. In 1952 a new oil furnace was installed in the place
of the old coal furnace, and it was converted to gas in January, 1963. In
1966 the old slate shingles that had been on the Church since it was built in
1898 were removed and new shingles applied. In 1967 the Church and par-
sonage received a coat of paint.
A new organ was purchased in 1951 and replaced by another organ
in 1964.
On September 11, 1949, the property at 344 North Grove Street was
purchased for a parsonage and sold in August, 1959, when the property at
181 East Tremont was purchased.
This small group was supported by the Central Illinois District (Mo.
Synod) Mission Board until January, 1910, then by the Southern Illinois
District (Mo. Synod) Mission Board until January, 1949. The Church has
been self supporting since that time.
The first pastor was Prof. Richard C. Nietzel, who served from the
beginning until June, 1942. He was assisted by students of Concordia Sem-
inary of Springfield, some of whom resided in Waverly, including Rev. Frank
Schultz. Rev. Otto F. Strothman was the first resident pastor, serving from
January 10, 1943 to May, 1945. Rev. 0. J. Klinkerman, Jacksonville, was
vacancy pastor. Rev. Edward Schick served from September, 1945 to Jan-
unary, 1949. Prof. Martin Naumann, Springfield, vacancy pastor. Rev.
Alfred O. Pautsch served from June, 1951 to June, 1954. Rev. Arthur
Wiegert, Farmersville, vacancy pastor. Rev. Edwin Wuehle served from
November, 1955 to July, 1963. Rev. R. Dean Mues, Auburn, and Rev. Louis
Knief, Girard, were vacancy pastors until Rev. Arno C. Meyer came as
resident pastor in February, 1967.
During the time of vacancy, students from Concordia Seminary as-
sisted the vacancy pastor.
The Christian Fellowship League had its organization in 1951. In 1954
the Church joined the Southern Illinois District (Mo. Synod). Family night
was started in 1954 and still continues.
Since the beginning of Christ Lutheran Church the following boys have
or are serving their country via military service: Otto Horn (who was killed
at Manila, February 28, 1945), Russell Ladage, Orville Ladage, Robert
German, Gerald German, Vincent Maher, Marvin F. Conrady, Bernard
Conrady, Donald Duewer, Roland Gunn, David Seiz, Kent Seiz, Stephen
Ladage, Donald Mueller, Jacob Mueller and Wyman Bess.
The original Christ Episcopal Church is the only wood structure church
in the United States built by the Episcopalians. All their other churches were
built of brick or stone. The Church was built in the shape of a Cross.
The present membership is 140 souls, including 98 communicants and
30 voting members.
Page Twenty-nine
CEMETERIES
The history of a people who settled a community in the early years is
often found in its burial grounds. Records were not kept as accurately as
now, and often valuable information could be found on the stone in the fam-
ily plot. Especially is this true from Kentucky thru the Eastsrn Colonies,
where interesting details of a person's life have been etched on the stone,
often frank and not too flattering.
Waverly has many private cemeteries as well as four that represent
the later growth of the community.
The Rogers Cemetery is one of the oldest in Morgan County, located
west and south of Waverly.
The next is the Old West Cemetery, known by several names. It is
south of town and no longer used for burial, but still a possession of the
Methodist Church.
The Catholic Cemetery is located a short distance west of the city
limits. It was probably established near the time the church was organized
in Waverly. It is well cared for and used for burial by its members at
this time.
The East Cemetery located just east of the city limits is the largest
of all and is the one currently in general use.
Since much of the material is available at the Morgan County Court
House, it is not necessary to go into details. However, there are two or-
dinances regulating behavior in the cemeteries around Waverly that are
very interesting and should be more carefully observed.
REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF WAVERLY, ILLINOIS
Virden, 111., 1888. Revised and arranged by Richard Yates, Attorney at law.
Cemetery — Page 72
Section 200:
"Whoever shall hunt, discharge firearms, set off or explode fireworks
in, or otherwise trespass upon any cemetery or burying ground within the
the City of Waverly or within or under the jurisdiction of the City Council
of said city, shall, on conviction, forfeit and pay to said city not less than
ten dollars nor more than one hundred for every offense."
Section 201:
"Whoever shall remove or carry away, or shall willfully or negligently
break, deface, destroy or otherwise injure any monument, tombstone, tree,
shrub, plant, vase, railing, fence, gate or other property article or thing
belonging to or placed or erected in, any cemetery burying grounds within
said city, or within the jurisdiction of the City Council thereof; or whoever
shall pluck any flowers therein, or trespass upon, or maltreat any grave
therein, or drive over or upon the grass therein or violate any of the estab-
lished rules and regulations for the government of any such cemetery, shall
be subject to a penalty of not less than five dollars or more than one hundred
dollars for each and every offense."
ROGERS CEMETERY
Rogers Cemetery, one of the oldest in Morgan County, is located about
one mile west of Waverly and a half mile south of Route 104. It is in T 13
N, R 7-8 W, Sec. 10.
Page Thirty
The land was set aside for a cemetery by John Cook Caldwell. It was
named in honor of his wife's parents, Rev. and Mrs. William Rogers. The
cemetery measures about 320 x 220 feet. There are over four hundred
persons buried at Rogers, and this includes over 100 Morgan County Pioneer
families. There are fourteen men buried at Rogers that entered land from
the United States Government.
Among the honored dead sleeping at Rogers are three pioneer preach-
ers, Rev. William Rogers, Rev. Austin Sims, and Rev. Newton Cloud.
Rev. Rogers, a Baptist minister, preached the first sermon at the home
of Rev. Isaac Conlee. He was born about 1783 and died in 1850. Rev. Austin
Sims, belonged to the Christian Church and was the 'first speaker' of the
Waverly Christian Church. He was born in 1790 and died in 1878. Rev.
Newton Cloud was born in 1804 and died in 1877. He was a Methodist mini-
ster and preached for over fifty years. He also served sixteen years in the
Illinois Legislature, and was Speaker of the House. The funeral for Rev.
Cloud was held at his home on 'Cloud*s Lane' west of Waverly, with Rev.
Peter Akers delivering the funeral sermon. A special train from Jackson-
ville was run to bring friends and fellow Masons to the funeral. It was
estimated that a thousand persons attended the service. Rev. Newton Cloud
was laid to rest at Rogers beside his wife and some of his children.
There are more Deatherages buried at Rogers than any other family.
The first family of Deatherages buried there were Milly Deatherage, who
died in 1855, aged 90, and her sons Coleman, William, James, George and
Schilles.
There was a cholera epidemic at Waverly in 1851 and it claimed many
lives. There are a number of graves in the northwest corner of Rogers
Cemetery marked only by field stones and it is presumed they died of
cholera.
The first known burial was that of David Watkins on November 7, 1831,
in the 31st year of his life. The last known burial was of William H. Camp-
bell, who died May 4, 1940, aged 84 years. The oldest known person buried
at Rogers was the Revolutionary soldier, Augustine Sims, who was born
in 1763.
Veterans of three wars are buried at Rogers — Revolutionary War:
Augustine Sims; Mexican War: Ananias D. Sevier; Civil War: Henry Bea-
son, Jr., James K. Reason, Richard Berry, Edward W. Deatherage, Richard
T. Mansfield, Wm. H. H. Scott, Richard H. Smedley, Wm. T. Walker, James
H. Waid, and Mason Whitlock.
For many years this was a beautiful cemetery and then it was neg-
lected for many years. Trees, brush and briars grew until the stones were
no longer visible. Vandals pushed over many of the stones and the ground
hogs did a great deal of damage. The fence was broken and livestock had
been in the cemetery.
In 1962, Mrs. Guy W. Martin became interested in the cemetery while
in search of the Revolutionary soldier's grave. Through her efforts money
was raised to hire members of the Waverly American Legion to cut off the
heavy brush. On April 14, 1963, members of the American Legion and a
few interested persons met at the cemetery and started the restoration
work. Since that time Mrs. Martin and her husband, Guy, and Mr. and Mrs.
W. Otis Sims have worked at Rogers each year to restore the cemetery.
No records existed, so Mrs. Martin read all the tombstone inscriptions
and recorded them. She searched courthouse records, old newspaper files
Page Thirty-one
and census records and now has a fairly complete record of the persons
buried at Rogers. The records have been filed in Washington, D.C., at the
Library of the Daughters of the American Revolution as well as with the
State.
Since the restoration work began, the brush and briars have been
removed, all ground hog dens leveled and filled, new fence put up, all tomb-
stones set up, a flag pole erected, the road has been graded and oiled, and
a tool shed built. Annual Memorial Day services have been held, and the
grave of the Revolutionary soldier, Augustine Sims, was marked by the
Springfield Chapter of D.A.R.
On May 24, 1965, an anonymous donor placed $2,000 in Wemple State
Bank with two provisions. First, that Rogers Cemetery receive the interest
from the money for three years Second, that the donor would match any
portion of the money that was raised by May 24, 1968. It is expected that
the money will be raised by the final date.
The cemetery was incorporated on June 21, 1963, with the State of
Illinois as a Foundation. The incorporators were: Judge Dee Brown Walker
of Dallas, Texas, Myra N. Martin, Guy W. Martin, W. Otis Sims and Chester
H. Ashbaugh. Judge Walker donated all his legal services to the cemetery.
On August 16, 1963, a meeting was held at the Waver ly Christian Church and
bylaws for the cemetery were adopted. The following officers were elected:
President, Chester H. Ashbaugh; Vice President, W. Otis Sims; Secretary-
Treasurer, Mrs. Guy W. Martin. The Trustees elected were: Mrs. Guy W.
Martin; W. Otis Sims; Miss Marion Caruthers; Mrs. Clayton Anderson;
Mrs. Clarence Wiggins; Grover Caldwell; Starr Edwards and Guy W. Martin.
The same officers serve today except for Grover Caldwell. Mr. Caldwell
died and his son, Nelson Caldwell, was elected to fill the unexpired term of
his father.
Through the interest, faith, and donations of many friends and de-
scendants, Rogers Cemetery is being restored. After many years of neglect
it can now give some dignity to the final resting place of many Morgan
County pioneers sleeping in "God's Little Acre."
Rogers Cemetery Trustees
Page Thirty-two
ks^o,
T H B M
O
it
g
\
^
r i
M
«»v/~
NOW
==5v>r^-
v^3xb
Page Thirty-three
EARLY SCHOOLS
The first attempts at popular education in Morgan County were mads
in the winter of 1820-21. That winter a school was taught in a cabin of ons
of the settlers. But few scholars attended— there were few to attend and the
term lasted but a short time. The teacher received his pay in the currency
of the time — coonskins and beeswax — and probably, as in after years,
"boarded round."
The schools were always "pay schools"; that is, each patron paid a
certain amount per scholar., for the quarter.
In the summer of 1874, the first Institute for teachers was held in the
county. The purpose of these institutes was advancement of teachers. They
were held each year, lasting from three to six weeks and were well attended.
An association at Waverly met monthly — having the same object in view.
WAVERLY SCHOOLS
Three schools opened in Waverly in 1838 — the seminary under the
direction of John F. Brooks, as school master, and two private schools, one
under the direction of Margaret Miller and the other under Ellen Thayer.
An early account of the seminary states that Mr. Brooks, "applied both
lickin' and learnin with true Puritan faith." Miss Thayer was forced to
close her school in 1840.
In 1836 Mr. C. J. Salter set aside six hundred and forty acres for edu-
cational purposes. A school and a boarding house were built at a cost of
approximately $5,000. In the early history of the state, this was one of the
prominent high schools and was attended by many who have since become
prominent in the history of the state.
The seminary was not as successful as had been hoped, because of the
nearness of Illinois College, and the lack of a railroad to connect Waverly
with the outside world.
In 1858 a poster in the possession of Wilson M. Smith, an authority on
Waverly history, relates that the seminary building had been repaired and
reseated so as to accommodate an increasing number of students, and
that Mr. C. C. Carter was engaged as principal, with Mr. E. A. Tanner as
associate.
To those residing in the district the school would be free, the poster
declared. Charges of $4.00 a quarter for the "common Branches" and $5.00
a quarter for "Latin, Greek and higher mathematics" were to be levied
against students from outside that district.
In 1867 plans and specifications were furnished by G. A. Randall,
architect, for the building of the grade school located on the east side of
the square.
The editor of the Waverly Gazette of October 20, 1870, gives a concise
statement concerning Waverly at that time — quote:
"Waverly is situated in one of the richest agricultural sections of
central Illinois, and contains a population of about twelve hundred inhabi-
tants. It has six fine churches and one magnificent school building with a
capacity for accommodating five hundred students."
An item in the same issue of the Gazette states, "the colored children
of Waverly were admitted to the Public Schools last Wednesday."
As the years passed rapidly by, the people of Waverly saw the need of
bigger and better schools. In 1881 there came a young educator to the town
Page Thirty-four
•««'tS . ■,>»& >:-_, i.|ii.. i,,.|,i..iuu.
Public School, 1867
who left a deep impression upon it. 'That man was Joseph R. Harker."
Mr. Harker established a high school to take the place of the private
school known as the Seminary. The first graduating class was in 1884.
Mr. Harker became principal of the Whipple Academy in Jacksonville:
later in 1893, he became president of the girls' school, now known as Mac-
Murray College.
The schools of Waverly continued their progress and another change
noted: "Waverly Township High School District No. 191, was organized at
a special election held March 30, 1915. The vote was 406 for organizing the
new district, 34 against." The first board of education was elected April
27, 1915. The $40,000.00 bonds for construction of the new building were
approved at a special election held July 30, 1915.
Waverly Community Unit School District No. 6 was organized at a
special election held November 7, 1947.
A $400,000.00 bond issue for construction of the new grade school, was
approved by the voters at a special election held March 14, 1949.
Page Thirty-five
The Student Council in 1959 landscaped the campuses of both the
Elementary School and the High School with evergreens. The low shrubs
placed gracefully in front of both schools added greatly to the beauty of
our schools.
In 1963 the first publicly supported kindergarten was established with
classes scheduled in the High School Building. Kindergarten classes had
existed intermittently for approximately seventeen years but were estab-
lishd on a private basis.
Early in 1966 the local school district indicated their willingness to
participate in a feasability study for a public community Junior College.
In April, 1967, a referendum was held in 25 school districts to determine
if a Junior College District was to be organized. The proposition carried
with the Waverly Precincts showing a strong preference for the issue and
voting in favor by a vote of 467 to 137.
The Waverly School District became a member of the Four Rivers
Special Education District in 1967. This district includes 27 school districts
with an estimated total of 33,000 pre-school and school age children, a popu-
lation of about 4200 handicapped children and a geographic area of about
3750 square miles. Our school initiated special education in 1960 by employ-
ing a teacher qualified to teach the Educationally Mentally Handicapped
children and accepted students from Virden, Auburn, New Berlin, and
Northwestern.
On February 17, 1968, the voters of the Waverly Community Unit
School District approved a referendum by a vote of 381 to 171 to issue bonds
in the amount of $375,000.00 for the construction of an addition to the Ele-
mentary School. The addition consists of band and music facilities, library
resource center, and space for kindergarten and special education.
Page Thirty-six
J
W»
Now
D UR
r)
D
J
M
E
PROF£SSJ
S
JH Eti
DUSTRlES
>5
Page Thirty-seven
RODGERS FORD DAY
In the early 1920's, H. J. Rodgers, Waverly Ford Dealer, an-
nually held a public celebration, the highlight of which was
a parade displaying the new model Ford cars. The picture
above is proof that the events were popular and well at-
tended.
TRANSPORTATION
One of Waverly's major problems of all time has been transportation.
The early settlers came by boat or covered wagon. Later the stage coach,
and then the bus were the approved modes of travel.
Ethel Peet ran a bus line and mail express from Waverly to Auburn
and from Waverly to Alexander long; before railroads came to Waverly.
One of the early railroads induced to pass through Waverly was the
Jacksonville, Northwestern and Southwestern Railroad. It was completed
in the summer of 1871 and included on its route Jacksonville, Waverly, and
Virden. That enterprise gave a great impetus to business. Waverly gave
in private subscriptions nearly $50,000, and a corporation about $30,000 ad-
ditional.
Before the opening of the railroad, no grain was purchased here, save
that used in the flouring mills. In 1872 an elevator was built and the ship-
ment of grain began. Stock yards were also constructed, and stock which
formerly went to Jacksonville or Alton markets, now was shipped from
Waverly.
This marketing of livestock was before the days of trucks, and the
animals were driven through the streets of Waverly. Riders went ahead
warning everyone off the street and also attempting to keep stray animals
off well kept lawns.
Page Thirty-eight
Trains were discontinued on the Chicago, Peoria and St. Louis Rail-
road (established 1881), and the track was taken up in 1941.
Buses and railroads have come and gone, and the last passenger serv-
ice by railroad was discontinued April 27, 1957.
INDUSTRIES - BUSINESS
The pioneers of Waverly were a most courageous, uncomplaining
group of men and women, who were filled with a vision of establishing
homes and churches in the yet sparsely inhabited prairie of Illinois. They
hoped to build homes similar to those they had left in the East. As early
as 1836, a brickyard was started by Mr. Tainter, from which the brick for
the seminary and the home of C. J. Salter were obtained. Alexander
Edgmon started a second brickyard, and these two supplied the town.
The old saw mill was established by Cook and Easton and operated
by William Chambers. It probably dates before 1838. It was run by steam,
and in its day did a good business.
The History of Morgan County. Illinois, 1878, pages 420-7, enumerates
the following stores and business places in town: "A. Thayer was keeping
a general store in part of his dwelling, on the southeast part of the square;
William Rhoads had a drug-store on the south side of the square, in a
frame story-and-a-half building; R. H. Nelson and John A. Crane were sell-
ing dry goods, groceries, etc., in a frame building on the west side of the
square; Andrew Kinkead and G. W. Garrett had a general store near Crane
and Nelson; J. W. Ross and John Beatty had a small grocery and provision
store adjoining the grocery store of Ross and Beatty; one flouring mill, in
the western part of town, was in operation, run by William H. Coe."
"In 1848 Mr. James Hutchinson was operating a wool carding factory.
Baker Ewing had a blacksmith and wagon shop in the western part of town,
near its old business center and old saw mill, that had been in operation
several years, and was still in use; James W. Manson had a blacksmith
shop on the east side of the public square. A brick store and dwelling was
built about 1849, by S. C. Woods; another soon after by J. A. Crane. These
were the first brick business houses in town."
Waverly Gazette, No. 18, October 21, 1869: "New business — The great
cry for some time in our flourishing town is that no regular clothing business
is here, and that we have to go to the city to buy a respectable suit. Now
the evil has been removed by the extensive firm of S. Benjamin & Co., who
are going to open a branch store this week. We invite farmers and everyone
to give them a call."
A new firm will carry on business at the old stand of N. R. Littlefield.
The name of the firm will be Barrett and Company. We would urge our
friends to make them a visit.
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 44, April 21, 1870 — "Miss Sallie Challens
has just returned from the City with one of the largest stock of millinery
goods of all kinds ever on exhibition in Waverly."
The first steel walking plow made in this country was manufactured
in the early 1880's by Peter Prawl and F. H. Wemple. They were the paten-
tees of the first sulky plow in existence.
A cigar factory, established in Waverly, 1884, continued under differ-
ent ownerships until well into the 20th Century; F. S. Reesor, last owner.
The coming of mechanical cigar-making equipment put small factories out
of business.
Page Thirty-nine
Deatherage, Allen and Co., (Waverly Tile Factory) — date of origin
of this company is uncertain, but is considerably later than the brick yards
established in the early days for building purposes. A special edition of the
Morning Monitor of Springfield of October 22, 1892 mentions this company
as "Manufacturers of Superior Drain Tile," and continues to mention the
firm as an established factory of considerable years, though no dates are
given.
The Waverly Grain, Brick and Tile Company was purchased in 1902
by E. T. Harrison and J. N. Hairgrove. Included in this purchass was the
"flour mill" site (the mill had burned down prior to this purchase), the
"Mill Pond," Waverly Tile Factory and the home of Prairie Street where
the Harrisons came to make their home.
Mr. Harrison was manager of the Waverly Elevator until about 1914
when he bought out Mr. Hairgrove's interest.
Waverly was supplied with ice from the "Mill Pond." In winter from
ten to fifteen men marked, cut and sawed blocks of ice which were raised
on an elevator and stored near the pond in two buildings. Sawdust was
used to pack the ice. In the summer the ice-man delivered ice to his cus-
tomers in a covered wagon drawn by two horses.
The Tile Factory employed fron nine to fifteen men with D. C. Calhoun
manager. Bricks required at least seven days to bake or "burn," as was
the expression in those days. Tile required at least three and sometimes as
many as five days depending on whether they were stuffed or whether the
kiln was "set" partly with brick. They used to stuff 12 inch tile with 8 inch
tile with 4 inch tile. All this prevented the heat from getting down to the
bottom of the kiln. The secret of "burning" was to get the heat to the
bottom of the kiln without overheating the top layers.
By the same token, the kiln could not be opened too quickly or all the
tile would crack. It would take two days of patrol (keeping the fire pickets
full of ashes), then three or four more days of cooling before opening.
A cheese factory was started in February, 1932, at the sight where
Shumaker Implement is now located, by the Lang Brothers, who came here
from Wisconsin. It continued its operation until May, 1936.
The first creamery, in the eighties, was managed by D. C. Calhoun.
"An advertisement of rather unusual interest was that of A. Thayer &
Son, established 1865, advertising furniture, burial robes, coffins, and wood
and metallic burial cases."
Industries have thrived or changed ownership frequently during the
last half of the 20th century. The merchants of today are modernizing their
businesses and carrying on in a manner creditable to their ancestors.
BANKS
The first bank in Waverly was established in 1870, by John A. Crain,
James W. Manson & Company, chartered as Crain, Manson and Company.
They were alone in the business until 1872, when Sheffield, Hutchinson and
Company was chartered. Cancelled checks from this bank were still avail-
able in 1957.
In 1874 the Bank of Waverly was organized by Brown and Company.
This bank failed about 1897. Mr. A. C. Moffet then organized the First State
Bank, which later became the First National Bank. It was liquidated in
the early 1930's.
In 1877 Edward Wemple and Francis Holland Wemple organized the
Page Forty
Exchange and Loan office of Wemple Brothers, later to be known as Wemple
Brothers Bankers. August 14, 1918, they incorporated to become Wemple
State Bank. Charles Francis Wemple (better known as Frank Wemple)
was elected the bank's first President. Vice President was Leland E. Wemple,
and cashier was Paul Wilbur Wemple. Frank Wemple and Wilbur Wemple
held their respective offices and managed the bank until its sale in June, 1962.
Wilbur Wemple continues his association with the banking industry by
serving as Vice President of Wemple State Bank.
Due to the sound management of the bank during the 90-plus years
since its beginning, the Wemple State Bank survived the crash of 1929 and
the uncertainties of the 19.30's to become one of the largest and strongest
banks in the area. It stands today in our modern world ready to give the
Community modern service.
NEWSPAPERS
A newspaper, the "Gazette," was established in Waverly in June, 1869,
by M. J. Abbott and W. D. Premberton. The paper frequently changed
hands in the passing years and at times was suspended for months. In 1876
it again changed owners and the name was changed to "Morgan County
Journal." The Journal was consolidated with the Enterprise prior to 1907.
The Journal Enterprise was edited in 1907 by B. Reinback and published by
the Waverly Journal Company (Inc.) — Independent in politics.
Mr. Wilson M. Smith purchased the Waverly Journal Company from
the publisher of the Waverly Journal-Enterprise, November 16, 1910. Shortly
afterwards the corporation was dissolved, and the ownership passed to
Wilson M. Smith; the name of the paper was then changed from Journal-
Enterprise to the Waverly Journal.
Mr. Smith continued publication until June 1, 1949, when ownership
was transferred to Alfred A. Hodgson, under whose ownership the paper
is published weekly.
ELECTRIC UTILITY HISTORY
In 1895, H. J. Rodgers and Frank Rantz bought the old flour mill
property and started the Electric Light Plant. In 1896 electric service was
inaugurated in Waverly. Night service, only, was provided from a small
90 kilowatt, 2 phase, 133 cycle steam electric generator operated at about
2,000 volts.
In 1896, the people voted for street lights, and on July 4th they were
turned on officially. There were 72 lights.
George T. Rodgers operated the plant for 17 years. George (Dad)
Rodgers started at the beginning when he was sixteen years old. He had
practical operating control, and when the Central Illinois Public Service
Company bought the property, George continued as Plant Superintendent.
(Rodgers' Shop Talk — January 18, 1923, Vol. 2, No. 8.)
As of June 1, 1913, the Waverly electric plant was purchased by the
Central Illinois Public Service Company. In 1913 that company constructed
a high voltage electric line from Auburn through Waverly to Roodhouse.
The steam plant was shut down and twenty-four hour electric service was
supplied from the transmission system.
In 1913 electric service was furnished to 178 customers in Waverly and
vicinity. At the end of 1967, the CIPS Company furnished electric service
to 735 customers in Waverly and the suburban area.
Page Forty-one
TELEPHONE
The Waverly Telephone Company, incorporated 1898, included the
following exchanges: Waverly, Franklin, Loami, and Palmyra. There were
changes in ownership throughout the years, but the constant desire to im-
prove service for the customer was ever present, culminating in the dial
system of August 24, 1954. Direct Distance Dialing became available to
Waverly customers on May 10, 1968.
WATCHMAKER
Fred Bateman, watchmaker since 1922, has bean in business longer
than any other merchant in town.
There have been changes in time-pieces during this span of time. At
first there were the wooden sheel weight clocks, the regular eight day weight
clocks, the Cuckoo, and the spring clocks, which were mantel, kitchen, wall,
banjo, steeple, calendar and many other styles. Now we have the electric
self-starting clocks. The alarm clocks are made in many types, spring
and electric.
Forty-six years ago most of the watch work was on pocket watches
(sizes 18, 16, 12, 6/0 and 3/0). The wrist watch became popular in World
War I. Very few pocket watches are in use at present, most of the watches
being ladies' and men's wrist watches.
The first watches were spring, key and stem wind, then the automatic,
and now the electric wrist watch.
The first cases were hunting, screw back and front, then snap-on with
glass crystals. Present day cases are water-proofed with unbreakable crystals.
The largest volume of Mr. Bateman's work was during World War II.
There was a shortage of clocks and watches at that time, so everyone had
old watches and clocks repaired. Mr. Bateman stated that he had 24 striking
clocks in his work room at one time, and that on the hour it was a "striking
time." Mr. Bateman had many alarm clocks to repair at this time, as they
were a luxury and a luxury tax was put on them the same as on jewelry.
Years ago when a person bought a watch or clock he was told that it
would last a lifetime if it was kept clean and oiled. This was a true state-
ment, as good material was used and the workmanship was excellent. To-
day it is different. Each day seems to find cheaper material and poor work-
manship, so the clocks and watches do not last. The public purchases cheap
clocks and watches, and when in need of repair they just throw them away
and buy another timepiece.
Mr. Bateman remarked that a country can't move forward unless we
do our best to produce quality and that we should improve tomorrow by
what we do today.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The first studio was established by C. L. Gates, a photographer, who
came to Waverly from Pennsylvania in 1876. He lived in a tent until the
present building was erected. On October 4, 1922, Miss Ruth Walters, took
over the studio.
She has on file the negatives made over the years and since 1931 has
kept a picture file also. This file includes the soldiers from Waverly in
World War II. This record will become more valuable with the passing
of the years.
The studio has been discontinued for a few years.
Page Forty-two
HIGHWAYS
The invention of the automobile, at the turn of the century, created a
whole new way of life. Many ways of making a living became obsolete,
and in their place we find the filling station, garage, and hamburger stand.
In order that people could take their minds off the weather and their
eyes off the ruts and bumps in the road, highways were built. Two such
highways were built through Waverly over a period of years.
The Waverly Journal of September 12, 1930, states — "Bids were re-
ceived by the State Highway Department, Wednesday, that included that
section of Route No. 104 from Auburn to the Burlington Railroad, a short
distance east of Waverly. The average price for paving the 8:48 miles from
the Burlington Railroad to Auburn is $16,286 per mile, bridges included
bringing it to $17,747 per mile."
Quoting from the Waverly Journal, July 10, 1931 — "Slab laying is rap-
idly approaching Waverly from the east on Route No. 104, and developments
of the past week or so indicate that Route No. Ill will also be completed
from Modesto to Waverly, much to the gratification of people hereabouts.
Hedges are being uprooted and the right-of-way widened to the standard
width of 80 feet. The Morgan County, Waverly-Modesto road will be com-
pleted first, the right-of-way across Macoupin County not having been se-
cured at this time."
Route No. 104 appears to have been laid in rather small sections over
a period of years, again quoting — "The laying of slab was begun at the
Eugene Blair farm July 5, 1934, and a contract was let October 17, 1934, to
pave the section from Franklin to Pisgah."
"July 7, 1936, finished laying slab on the Franklin gap — Waverly
people will soon be able to drive all the way to Jacksonville on concrete,
the gap having been completed Wednesday."
There was another long wait before a short gap in the pavement in
Waverly was completed. This was due to the removal of the tracks of the
Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Railroad. The contract was let September 26,
1941, to complete the gap between cemetery street and near the Ruble
Garage. It was difficult to complete this gap due to excessive rains and the
fill made where the railroad crossed Elm Street. However, the highway was
completed Saturday, December 6, 1941.
Highways are constantly being studied by engineers in order that the
increased volume of traffic can be handled with a minimum of accidents.
Both routes are now (1968) in need of repair due to winter freeze and
thaw and the heavy freight truck through here to the river. Petitions are
being circulated to get the repair work or new surfacing done this year.
WAVERLY LAKE AND WATER SYSTEM
The combined water and sewerage system represents a cost of $186,300;
of this amount $81,000 is a P.W.A. grant from the government, and $105,300
comes from bond issues.
The lake is west and slightly north of Waverly, the dam being at the
south end of the lake and about three miles from town. The dam which
closes Apple Creek, is a few feet north of the C.B. & Q. tracks, which are
on a high fill at that point. The length of the dam is 450 feet.
It is estimated that when the lake is full to the 13 foot or spillway
level, it covers about 55 to 60 acres, contains 120,000,000 gallons and is
Page Forty-three
sufficient to supply Waverly's needs easily for a full year without a drop
of rain. Waverly Lake has also supplied Franklin with water, almost from
the beginning of the project.
The water tower and tank, erected on the northwest corner of the
park, will provide storage for 60,000 gallons of water. The foundation for
the tower was laid in March and the tower and tank erected in June, 1938.
The sewerage disposal plant is located alongside the C.P. & St. L.
right-of-way, a short distance south of town, on the A. D. Roberts land. The
filtration plant and the pumping plant are located on Route No. 104 about
three miles west of town.
The following changes have been made in the Waverly water system
since 1957. The dam has been raised three feet; the water plant remodeled
and larger pumps installed.
Complying with the State law, fluoridation was added in 1968.
NATURAL GAS FOR HEATING AND LIGHTING
Fuel is a problem in any community. This is especially true where
a supply of good coal is not available or the cost prohibitive. After dis-
cussing its possibilities, the City Council passed an ordinance on March 3,
1955, authorizing the use of natural gas. The plan was submitted to the
people in an election April 19, 1955, and carried.
The contract for construction of the gas system was awarded and
work started July 10, 1956.
The dedication of the system was held on November 10, 1956, "Blue
Flame Day." Miss Sandra Harney was elected "Miss Blue Flame" queen
during the ceremonies.
The first gas was turned on to consumers November 9, 1956. There
were 140 taps in use by November 30, 1956.
Gas mains have been laid as necessary, to accommodate additional
consumers. There are 580 users of gas in Waverly as of March, 1968.
An item of interest to the consumers of gas is the fact that the tax
on the monthly gas bills has been absorbed by the city. Although the
Panhandle Gas Company has raised its rates to the City at various times,
the City has not raised rates to consumers.
UNITED STATES POST OFFICE
Waverly, Illinois 62692
The post office was established as Apple Creek on December 19, 1832.
The name was changed to Waverly on April 15, 1847. On November 18,
1962, the new Post Office Building was dedicated.
BUSINESSES
Two business firms in Waverly have been making extensive changes
in their stores in recent months.
The Waverly Variety Store, formerly owned by Mr. R. R. Deatherage,
who came to Waverly in November, 1937, from Minneapolis, Minnesota,
bought and operated the Variety Store from 1937 to January, 1956, at which
time he sold his business to Mrs. Mildred R. Carr, who continued the name
of Deatherage Variety Store. January, 1965, the property was sold to
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Stewart, who changed the name to Waverly Variety
Page Forty-four
Store. They bought the building on the north side of the store and enlarged
the floor space, making room for additional merchandise.
During the remodeling of the Star Store building in 1968, a paper was
found containing an interesting advertisement, of the original Star Store,
possibly dating back to around 1889, reading as follows: Star Store — Mor-
gan County's best store, Waverly, Illinois. Dry Goods, clothing, carpets,
rugs, shoes, cloaks and millinery. For Cash. Stores located at Waverly,
Greenville, Vandalia, Clinton, Tuscola, Rockford and Chatsworth, Illinois.
The Star Store changed owners through the years. March 4, 1961, Mr.
David Ridings began business, now known as Ridings Dry Goods, and Jan-
uary 1, 1967, purchased the building.
Needing more room for a larger stock of dry goods and better dis-
play opportunities, Mr. Ridings in 1967 began an extensive expansion pro-
gram. He will carry all lines previously listed but in larger amounts. The
Hallmark Card display will contain most of that varied and beautiful line
of cards and useful party favors.
These stores are becoming quite an attraction in the community, and
outstanding in the trade area.
Normally when thinking in terms of industry we tend to visualize the
mercantile side, but in recent years the basic side has developed as well,
and the Brown Ready Mix, Inc., is an example in Waverly.
Brown's Ready Mix, Inc., bought the Coal and Ice business from Mr.
Oliver Miller in 1958 and added rock, fertilizer and lime in 1959 with the
Charles Harney, Jr. cement business the same year. As business increased,
a bulk mixer plant was established in 1962 north of the depot. In 1968 the
fertilizer business was sold and interest increased in the bulk mixer by the
purchase of two new mixer trucks, making business more efficient and
service prompt. The permanent office is located north of the depot, where
you will receive courteous service at all times.
Page Forty-five
CULTURAL
DEVELOPMEN
THE
V/AVHRLY WO/A AM £
C L U B
Page Forty-six
WAVERLY WOMAN'S CLUB
The Waverly Woman's Club was organized February 16, 1921, at a
meeting held in the parlors of the Congregational Church. There were seven
organized clubs at that date, but only three accepted the invitation to join
and form one united federated club. These three were the Minerva (Liter-
ary) Club, the Household Science Club, and the Music Club, with a total
membership of 77, these being considered charter members of the Woman's
Club.
The Mother's Club joined the Woman's Club as the Child Welfare
Department September 13, 1921, too late for its members to be Charter
Members.
The first flower show in Waverly was held at at an open meeting in
the Congregational Church. September 12. 1923, Mrs. H. E. Funk presiding
as second president. A flower show has been sponsored every year since,
with ribbons as prizes. The Garden and Art Department was organized
March 31, 1931, at the home of Mrs. H. E. Funk, who was its first chairman.
In October, 1924, it was decided to start a Club House Fund, and $50.00
was set aside for it. The largest sum of money added to the fund at one
time was $500.00 in 1926 during the presidency of Mrs. Charles F. Allen.
The Club entered a label contest sponsored by the Illinois State Register,
Illinois Manufacturers, and Springfield Merchants. The highest award for
Morgan County, a Ford touring car, was won by the Woman's Club and
sold for $400.00. A bonus check for $95.00 was received from the State
Register. The building fund was added to through the years until it reached
$3,000 and was contributed to the construction of the American Legion Me-
morial Building. The Woman's Club is now a member of the American
Legion Building Corporation.
In September, 1930, a club chorus was organized. Its members at-
tended the district federation meetings and joined the general chorus at that
time. At the present time there is no club chorus. The serving of tea at
the meetings of the club was revived during the presidency of Mrs. Wilson
M. Smith, in 1948, and it continues at the present time.
The Junior Department of the Waverly Woman's Club was organized
in 1963. This is a very active club, participating in all activities of the
Woman's Club besides sponsoring a summer Story-telling Hour at the
Public Library; donating to the Boy Scouts Building Fund; sending gifts to
Waverly soldiers in Vietnam: furnishing baskets to needy families at Christ-
mas and joining in many civic projects.
The Literature and Music Department became inactive in May, 1966,
and voted to spend what funds were on hand for books for the Waverly
Public Library.
LIBRARY
The Waverly Gazette of February 24, 1870, contained a suggestion from
the editor, Mr. Abbott, concerning a Reading Room and Circulating Library
where everyone would be welcome, and expressed the hope something would
be done in the near future to correct this oversight.
Mr. C. J. Salter suggested the following plan: "Select a large room
in a central location, furnish seats, stands for papers, and cases for books;
form yourselves into an association taking the caption to this article, Read-
Page Forty-seven
ing Room and Circulating Library for a title. Let everyone be a member
and entitled to vote by paying five dollars ($5.00) and an annual tax of one
dollar and fifty cents ($1.50) for a share, transferable if he wishes to leave
the place. Every shareholder entitled to the privilege of reading the papers
and books, and taking to his home one volume each week. The room to be
opened every day except Sunday, from nine to eleven a.m. and from two
to five p.m. A committee of five to select the books and papers and no book
or paper admitted without the approval of the majority of the committee."
The suggestion of Mr. Salter must have met with general approval, and
an effort made to establish a public reading room. Reference material is
scarce concerning the struggle of the community to make the library a
success between the years of 1870 and 1880.
The original Public Library in Waverly was established in December,
1880. It was known as the Waverly Association. This was not tax supported,
but was financed by donations, entertainments, fees for readers' cards, and
Kings' Daughters. The first record of circulation of books is January 15. 1881.
For many years the books were housed in different buildings and
loaned from there, but were finally moved to the Congregational Church
parlors, where they remained until they were turned over to the Waverly
Public Library on April 10, 1913. There were 480 volumes in good condition
at that time. From 1908 to 1913 they were not circulated.
In 1911 a movement was started for the establishment of a Carnegie
Public Library, by Miss Estelle Harris. After discussing the matter with a
number of friends and citizens, who were interested in any project that
would be of educational advantage to our city, Miss Harris arranged for a
representative from the State Library Association to come to Waverly and
explain the procedure for securing funds for a building for a Carnegie
Library. The representative stated that Mr. Carnegie would donate the
$4500.00 for the building (provided the city Council would vote to raise at
least 10% of that amount each year thereafter for its support). Petitions
were circulated and signed by a sufficient number of citizens and were pre-
sented to the City Council, who voted favorably.
At first it was thought the building could be located in the city park,
but upon investigation the board found it could not, owing to the wording
of the deed. A number of different sites were considered, but the board
finally decided on the present location, which was purchased in April, 1912,
with funds received from donations.
On April 8, 1912, the Library Board gave a contract to Thomas Rodgers
for the erection of the building for the sum of $4500.00.
At the April city election in 1912, there were two aldermen elected who
were opposed to the library and the City Council refused to levy the $450.00
tax to support it. The Library Board authorized the president, A. C. Moffet,
to employ an attorney to bring mandamus proceedings, to force the City
Council to levy the library tax, and Dirby, Wilson & Baldwin were secured.
The case was decided in favor of the library, the City Council finding they
could not refuse to levy the tax after having accepted the $4500.00 for the
building. Since that time there has been no question as to the levying of
the tax for its upkeep.
The building was completed April 14, 1913, and the final payment made
to Mr. Rodgers on that date.
According to the Waverly Journal of July 4, 1913, the formal opening
Page Forty-eight
of the building was held from 2:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 1913.
The building was prettily decorated with plants and pictures, and presented
a pleasing and inviting appearance.
Rev. P. H. Aldrich, pastor of the Baptist Church, became the first
librarian, and held that position until August 1, 1914. For a few weeks Miss
Goldia Cline supplied as librarian while her sister, Miss Myra Cline, attended
summer school for librarians, at the University of Illinois. Late in the sum-
mer of that year Miss Myra Cline became librarian, holding that position
until her marriage to Rev. W. T. Mathis on February 30, 1918. Miss Goldia
Cline then became librarian. She had served as assistant for her sister
during the time she was librarian.
Since the income from the one and two tenth mills tax amounts to
only about $800.00 each year, and less if there are delinquent taxes, our book
and magazine fund is of necessity very small. We have appreciated very
much through the years the donation of magazine subscriptions from the
clubs and churches; also other gifts.
Outside of Jacksonville, ours is the only other city in Morgan County
which has a public library. It is not strange, however, that Waverly should be
among the leaders in the county and state in this respect. Having received
its name from Sir Walter Scott's Waverly Novels, and founded by a people
who were inclined toward literary pursuits, it was a natural consequence
that a library should be among its early institutions.
The story hour was initiated in June, 1964, by the Junior Department
of the Waverly Woman's Club, assisted by the Child Welfare Department.
The purpose: to help children get acquainted with the library, and to help
those in school retain their reading ability during the summer months. The
south room in the Library basement was redecorated and tables and chairs
purchased by the Library Board. The classes meet on Saturday morning
from ten to eleven a.m.
The Board in 1962 approved needed repairs and added improvements
to the building, by laying a new floor covering; installing a new gas furnace;
new fluorescent lighting; and completing the modernizing with air condi-
tioning, making the library a comfortable place winter or summer to enjoy
reading.
In 1966 a new roof completed the recent repairs program.
Library hours — Every day except Thursday from 2 to 5 o'clock.
Closed Thursday and open Saturday night from 6 to 9 o'clock.
July 1, 1967, the librarian, Miss Goldie Cline, retired after fifty-three
years of devoted service to the library and community.
August 1, 1964, Mrs. Melvin Deatherage (Ermadean) was appointed
assistant librarian, and at the retirement of Miss Cline became Librarian.
Page Forty-nine
F R A T £ R N A L
1879
1896
1888
189U
1852
1927
1920
1950
O R D £ R S
<^
j. -r
." % A.
/ / •' /* 1918
Page Fifty
MASONS
Waverly Lodge No. 118 A.F. and A.M. received its charter on October
4, 1852, from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois.
The first Worshipful Master was Mr. A. Rashel Thayer.
On March 12, 1892, fire destroyed the minutes and all early records
of the lodge.
The Centennial was observed on September 27, 1952, with a banquet
at the American Legion Building, after which members and guests went
to the Elementary School Gymnasium, where a program was given including
an address by Mr. James Green, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of 111.
In 1964, with the help of the Order of Eastern Star and personal con-
tributions of members of both Orders, the dais in the East was made larger
and the entire room carpeted. The walls were painted, also. The following
year a new sink and cabinets were installed in the Dining Room, the walls
painted and the floor refinished. The front room on the ground floor was
converted into a lounge and furnished with sofas, chairs and tables.
REBEKAH
"The Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, on application of brothers and sisters — J. F. Woodmansee, W. D.
Fleming, Wm. A. Hutchinson, J. C. Lankton, G. W. Bradley, C. C. Turner,
L. H. Wells, Floyd Epling, F. J. Lombard, Robert Smith, Frank Rantz,
Sarah F. Fleming, Julia Hutchinson, Rebecca Bradley, Tinnie Turner, Mary
A. Wells, Lizzie Epling, Mary J. Lombard, Irene Smith — doth hereby grant
the warrant to establish Degree Lodge of Daughters of Rebekah at Waverly,
Illinois, to be known as Rebekah Degree Lodge, No. 104— November 19, 1879."
The Secretary's Book from 1879 to 1887 December 1st (8 years) was
lost during the loss of the Lankton Building, December 23, 1887.
April 26, 1929, there was a social meeting to celebrate the 110th anni-
versary of IOOF in the United States.
May 10, 1935 — the Rebekahs celebrated their last meeting in the old
hall, with a birthday party. Meetings are now held the second and fourth
Friday nights at the K.P. Hall over the Ridings Dry Goods Store. The offi-
cers, until 1924, were elected every six months: now they hold office for a
year. There is an interesting record of elder members whose membership
date from 1907 to 1930. Their loyalty and encouragement added much to the
strength of the Order.
In 1940, an historic gavel, made of wood from Andersonville Prison,
was presented to Ruth Walters, Noble Grand, a gift from her aunt, Miss
Katherine Osborn.
The lodge has been very active during the years. They have helped
institute a number of neighboring lodges — Franklin is now the only one
in existence.
PYTHIAN SISTERS
The order of Pythian Sisters was founded on October 23, 1888.
It is the women's auxiliary of the Knights of Pythias, which was
started by a small group of men, Justice Rathbone being the instigator. He
was a teacher at Eagle Harbor, Michigan which is now a Pythian Shrine.
Their ritual and ceremonies were highly approved by Abraham Lin-
coln, who was President at that time, and they were the first fraternal
organization to receive a charter from the United States Government.
Page Fifty-one
The Temple of Pythian Sisters of Waverly, Illinois, called Linton
Temple No. 32, was organized on November 7, 1907, by the Grand Chief of
Illinois, Elizabeth Harvery of Chicago.
Twenty-five women and eleven knights became Pythian Sisters on
that night, and it has been an active organization since that time. Only six
of the charter members have held continuous membership and five have
withdrawn and been reinstated. Several have moved away and some are
deceased.
The Temple now has a membership of 75 sisters and 25 knights.
In May of 1951, the Supreme Chief of Pythian Sisters, who lived at
Albuquerque, New Mexico, was present at Waverly for the District Conven-
tion, being held at Waverly. At that meeting, there was a class of 35
initiated into the Order. Fourteen were from Waverly and became mem-
bers of Linton Temple. At that ceremony, the Supreme Chief used the
original Bible that had been used at the organization of the First Pythian
Sister Temple.
There is also a Junior Branch of Pythian Sisters called Sunshine Girls,
which is very active.
In 1962, a music camp scholarship was established to promote interest
in music and encourage worthy students.
The Pythian Sisters do many things for others, and enjoy their work
and asociation with each other and with the Knights.
Their Motto is: Onward and Upward.
K.P. LODGE
Linton Lodge No. 401, Knights of Pythias, Waverly, Illinois, was char-
tered on the 17th day of October, 1894. Much credit in starting this lodge
goes to Charles A. Barnes, Morgan County Judge, father of James M.
Barnes, who later became a member of the House of Representatives and
who now lives in Washington. Also of much help was Millard F. Dunlap of
Jacksonville, who later held Grand Lodge offices. Also a local citizen,
William N. Hargrove, gave much assistance in the organization. Joe Shriver
of Virden, offered great assistance in helping put on rank work during the
early years of the Lodge.
Meetings were first held in the rooms over the Post Office Building
and the adjoining building to the south. They next moved to the upstairs
of the building where the telephone offices were located at a later date.
From there they moved to the upstairs of the John Romang building. They
remained there until 1940, at which time they purchased the Star Store
Building. Since that time, they have used the second floor of the building
for the lodge meetings.
In 1957, Linton Lodge had a membership of 183. They have always
been very active in community and civic affairs. They are especially proud
of the youth program and athletic activities they have sponsored for a great
number of years. Our lodge has always been one of the strongest K. of P.
lodges in the State. Much credit for the fine financial status of the lodge
goes to Ramon Burnett, Olin Huson, and Les Davenport. They had served
at the Linton Building Corporation since its beginning. As is generally true
in all organizations, there is one sparkplug or dynamo that keeps it func-
tioning. In our local lodge this one person for 34 years had been Lester
Davenport. His accomplishments can best be summed up by the words of
Abraham Lincoln, when he said, '"The world will little note nor long remem-
ber what we say here, but it can never forget what (he) did here."
Page Fifty-two
Linton Lodge No. 401 continues to grow in membership and in 1960
went over the 200 mark to make it the largest Knights of Pythias lodge in 111.
In September, 1960, the Grand Lodge of Illinois, at their 91st annual
convention in Peoria, named James II. Handy of Waverly to their highest
elective office, that of Grand Chancellor. Jim assumed his office on January
14, 1961, when the Grand Lodge Installation was held in Waverly with some
150 people in attendance. From the close of his term in 1962 as Grand
Chancellor, he served as Grand Treasurer until September, 1967.
In January, 1967, the Linton Building Corporation sold the old Star
Store Building to the Ridings Dry Goods. They continue to occupy the
second floor of the building for their lodge rooms.
ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR
Waverly Chapter No. 320 Order of the Eastern Star was granted a
charter on October 15, 1896, by the Grand Chapter of Illinois. Minnie A.
Neece was the first Worthy Matron and Alvin F. Rohrer the first Worthy
Patron.
The following events were taken from a report made by Marie Wiese
on the 60th anniversary of the Chapter:
At the August 13th, 1896 meeting, the secretary was asked to tell of
her recent call upon the Worthy Grand Matron, but had only said a few
words when the drum and bugle corps began to practice, making both talk-
ing and hearing impossible. The Worthy Matron closed Chapter at once,
but in form.
The minutes of 1900 noted a bill of $1.00 for funeral flowers. On July
10, 1900, the Worthy Grand Matron visited the Chapter. A bill noted $1.50
hack service for Chapter to Franklin.
In January, 1901, the Star gave a turkey supper for the Blue Lodge
members at the K. P. Hall. The turkey bill was $5.40 for four turkeys.
During the meeting of February 9, 1905, the fire bell rang and the
Worthy Matron declared Chapter closed. As the years passed, expenses in-
creased: dining tables, table cloths, 2xk dozen chairs, shades for the windows
and many other supplies were purchased.
On January 8, 1935, the Chapter co-operated with the Waverly Cen-
tennial Committee by having a display of "old fashioned dresses," and a
float in the parade. The year 1938, tax on secretary and sentinel salaries
began being remitted to the Collector of Internal Revenue.
During 1943, Red Cross work of making dressings was carried on in
the dining room. Service men were exempt from paying dues.
Early in the year 1949, our last charter member passed away. Through
more than sixty years of active service, the chapter initiated 464 members.
During these years, we have contributed to many, many community and
worthy requests and are proud to have shared in decorating the hall in
recent years.
WAVERLY AMERICAN LEGION
The Waverly American Legion Post No. 262 was chartered in August
of 1920. Since that time it has continued to grow with veterans of World
Wars I and II, and the Korean conflict. Our highest membership attained
was 163.
Our home, which is named the American Legion Memorial Building,
was constructed in 1948. It is used for many community social gatherings
Page Fifty-three
as well as for American Legion and Auxiliary meetings.
Our post is always ready to do our part to help in any way to better
the community. One of our projects has been to clear off Rodgers Cemetery,
which had grown up in brush. We have most of it cleared and are still
working on it.
Any veteran who needs help in any way needs only to contact our
post and we will do our best to help him.
Under our programs there are several such events as Boys' State. We
send a boy to Boys' State each year, where there are about 1200 boys from
all over the state. They elect their own government and in this way learn
much about how our own government is run, and thus they become better
citizens.
Then we have the school medal award program which yearly awards
an American Legion School Medal to a boy and a girl in the graduating
class who are elected by their own classmates. A $200 scholarship is given
each year, since 1959, to a high school graduate.
One of our main aims is to take care of our disabled comrades in sick
beds, hospitals, and elsewhere. We also take care of the widows and orphans
of deceased veterans.
WAVERLY AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 262
The Waverly American Legion Auxiliary Unit, affiliated with the
Waverly American Legion Post No. 262, was organized at a meeting held
in the First National Bank building on the evening of July 26, 1927, after the
applications of 21 eligible women had been secured, due to the efforts of the
Commander of Waverly American Legion Post 262, J. V. Gooden, Sr.
Mrs. Cora B. Corbridge of Jacksonville, committeewoman of the 20th
District, was present at the meeting to assist in the organization of the unit.
An application was made to the Department of Illinois of the American
Legion Auxiliary for a charter of Waverly Unit 262. The charter was
granted on August 20, 1927, and approved on August 30, 1927.
Waverly Unit has consistently, since its organization, held one meeting
a month. At the present time, its meeting night is the first Tuesday night in
the month. The unit has always contributed financially to the requirements
as outlined by the Department of Illinois and Legion activities as called
upon, also toward many community activities, and other funds and causes
of general interest.
The Waverly American Legion Post erected a new Legion Memorial
Home in 1948 and 1949, and the Auxiliary Unit held its first meeting in the
new building in February, 1949. The Auxiliary contributed very materially
in helping to pay for the new building, and also planned and equipped the
kitchen of the new home. Early in 1957 the unit financed the installing of
new sinks and sink cabinet in the building. In the past, they have purchased
six banquet tables, also several dozens of chairs, besides being continually
helpful in building support.
The American Legion Auxliliary's main function is to contribute finan-
cially to the programs of the Department of Illinois. Some of the programs
are: the sale of poppies made by disabled veterans; rehabilitation; sponsor-
ing a boy at the Illinois Soldiers & Sailors School; giving to the cigarette
fund and making tray favors for veterans at the State Hospital.
Contributions are given locally to the Cancer Fund, Heart Fund, and
the March of Dimes.
Page Fifty-four
Each year on Memorial Day, wreaths are placed on every veteran's
grave in the Waverly Cemetery.
Illini Girls' State is an important project of the Unit. Each year a
girl in her Junior year is selected to attend. She is selected on the basis of
scholarship, co-operativeness, good character, leadership and honesty.
SHRINE CLUB
The Waverly Shrine Club was organized on March 15, 1950.
One of the outstanding activities of the Waverly Shrine Club was the
first wrestling show to be held in Waverly in the Waverly Elementary School
gymnasium on May 24, 1952, which was attended by 1892 paid fans.
The club also sponsored a vote to legalize boxing and wrestling in the
city of Waverly, at the general election on November 4, 1952. This program
was legalized, and a great percentage of the net proceeds was presented to
the St. Louis Unit of the Crippled Children's Hospitals.
The Shrine Club has been discontinued during the past several years.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A group of businessmen met in Waverly, November 3, 1959; for the
purpose of planning a Community Christmas celebration. Officers were
elected and committees appointed to plan the celebration. It was a huge
success and on March 15, 1960, thirty-seven Waverly businessmen met in
the Grade School Cafeteria, despite a drifting snow storm, for the purpose
of organizing a Waverly Chamber of Commerce.
Bylaws were read and approved. A Charter was applied for from the
State Chamber of Commerce, and the purpose of the organization stated:
advancing agricultural, commercial, industrial, civic and general interests
of the City of Waverly, and its surrounding trade area.
The following are several of the projects sponsored by the Chamber of
Commerce through the years:
Repairing and replacing street signs. Free movies for the children in
the pavilion in Salter Park during the summer months. The Chamber of
Commerce assisted in the dedication of the Waverly Post Office, November
18, 2 p.m. Also sent flowers for opening days of newly organized businesses.
Promoted "Antique Sales" or later known as "Sidewalk Sales." Assisted
in purchase of the pop corn machine at the Grade School and also contrib-
uted to the Waverly Community School's band uniforms. Donated yearly to
the yearbooks and fund-raising projects of Waverly and Franklin schools.
Little League baseball and many others.
LIONS CLUB
The Waverly Lions Club was instituted in 1948. It was sponsored, or-
ganized, and chartered by the Jacksonville Club. The club is dedicated to
social and civic improvements. One of its chief projects is aid for the blind.
The motto of the Waverly Lions Club is "Pulling for a better Waverly."
BOY SCOUTS
The Boy Scouts of Waverly have taken part in many important activi-
ties. They have attended the annual pilgramages honoring Abraham Lin-
coln; planted trees at Waverly Lake and in Salter Park; and attended a
campout at Colonel Andrews farm southeast of Palmyra and an another
campout November 3, 1967, in Salter Park in spite of temperatures in the
low twenties.
Page Fifty-five
r.
F:'
n) r
<■>. i
v. *-
-JSS
&PORT
£>
o
Page Fifty-six
1903-1907 WAVERLY FOOTBALL TEAM
Left to right: George H. Ritter, Roscoe Dunseth, Ed Christopher,
Charles Dunseth, Curtiss Walls, Fred Zoll, Lester D. Deatherage,
Charles Masters, Grover Hart, Howard Brian, and Tom Cleary.
SPORTS
There is a vast difference between sports of the 1890' s and the present
day. Such a thing as a high school gymnasium was unknown. Basketball,
also, was unknown and football was very different from the present day
game. To run with or throw the ball was illegal. The only way to advance
the ball was by kicking or slapping it with the hands. A point was scored
when the ball crossed the boundary line at the end of the field. Usually
there would be only one game a year. This would be between the high
school and a team made up of town boys and would be played on Thanks-
giving Day.
About the only other things engaged in by the town boys in the way
of sports were baseball and bicycle racing. Bicycle racing was a great
sport in those days and large crowds from the central section of Illinois
gathered for the races that were held on Fletcher's track southwest of
town, on the Bill Doolin farm. Bert Carlile and Mart Romang were crack
short distance riders. Beedle Harris and an old country boy by the name of
Allen won the distance races, some of which were for as much as 25 miles.
Some riders from other places were Mahan and Johnson, but the
Waverly boys were usually in front at the finish. Frank Wemple won the
hammer throw at a 4th of July picnic. Bert E. Scott saw this event and
said that it was the first time he ever saw a man make a complete body
turn while whirling the hammer around his head before turning it loose,
practically the same form they use today.
Sports in high school were confined almost entirely to track, and
centered around the famous Mule team of 1899-1900 and 1901.
Early in 1899, Mr. Bert E. Scott helped to organize the first Central
Page Fifty-seven
Illinois High School Athletic Association. The schools who were members
were Auburn, Virden, Girard and Waverly. The first meet was held in
Virden, and out of twenty-one events, Waverly won eighteen first places.
From that time on, they were known as the Waverly High School Mule Team.
Fred E. Deatherage was the star sprinter and a consistent winner in
the 50 and 100-yard dashes and relays. Bert Kennedy, quarter mile and
pole vault; Edgar Jarrett, shot-put and hammer throw; Hrebert Rohrer,
high and broad jumps; Starr Carter as star hurdler was outstanding. There
was George Boyer in the 220-yard dash and Ned Brown, now a retired Epis-
copalian minister in California, who always won the distance races and also
was a good high jumper. Charley Mader, Brauch Goldsmith, and Cassie
Munger were the bicycle riders. Mr. Bert E. Scott (class of 1899 ) was noted
for his running high kick in which he had a mark of eight feet, five inches.
This event was dropped from high school track meets many years ago.
Cherleaders and "W" Club can be depended upon for enthusiastic
support and publicity at all times.
CHEERLEADERS
The cheerleaders of W.H.S. are chosen respectively from the four
classes. The squad, composd of five, has had Mrs. Calvin Hobbie for their
advisor for the past 18 years.
In 1957, 1961, and 1967, the cheerleaders have received the Waverly
Holiday Tournament Cheerleading Trophy.
"W" CLUB
The "W" Club is composed of the athletes who have received a letter
and of the varsity cheerleaders. The main purpose of this organization is
to promote the school spirit and to help provide athletic equipment for re-
spective departments. In recent years they have financed the building of an
activity sign south of the grade school. Easter of 1968, the town servicemen
received a care package from the "W" Club.
FOOTBALL
Previous to 1903 the high school boys played Rugby, the English type
of football. It took 15 men on a team, and players weren't allowed to kick
or carry the ball. There weren't any organized teams as there are today,
but the high school boys played a team of city boys. Later the boys who
played on the high school team bought their own suits and rode horseback
to the games. The only coaching they had was from the high school prin-
cipal. There was no athletic field, and games with nearby schools were
held in pastures near Waverly. The players put up the goal posts, and they
were ready for a game.
Football is a major sport around Waverly, and we have had some out-
standing teams and players. Perhaps the most famous or at least one of
the best was the undefeated team in 1928. Season score was Waverly, 194;
Opponents, 12. The coach was Stone. The team was composed of Stuart
Dodd (Captain), Leonard Points, Arbra Robinson, Herbert Elliott, Clyde
Jones, Walter Saunders, Mervin Wilson, Glen Luttrell, Curtiss Luttrell,
Wayne Points, Roscoe Robinson, Russell McClain, Harry Luttrell, Darrel
Rodger, George Ritter, Eldon Lowery, William Hall, Johnnie Elliott, Bill
Jackson, Wendell Robinson, Herman Branom, Charles Mitchell, Stanley
Page Fifty-eight
Mader, Lloyd Hale, Theodore Smedley, Joye Mclntyre, and Earl Groves
was the manager.
When Waverly played Virden that year, over 1000 spectators watched
Waverly beat Virden 32-6. The game was considered one of the most im-
portant in central Illinois.
Waverly did not get the M.S.M. championship because of the ineligi-
bility of a player, but they were and are all champs.
Clyde Jones was selected as the best all-round football player in this
section. He won All-State honors in the same year. The 1929 football team
had a very good season also. Jones, Robinson and McClain were on both
the Illinois State Journal and Register teams. Saunders, also, made the
Journal team. Jones was a tackle on the first team, selected by Sports
Editor Drysdale, of the All Central Illinois Honor Roll.
In the early 1930's football was discontinued at W.T.H.S. for a few
years. Public opinion demanded that football be resumed, and it took a
few years to build up a team. Coach Lyle King was very instrumental in
bringing football back to Waverly, as it had been in the 20's.
Then in 1949, Waverly had a very strong team. That year four of
Waverly 's players made All-conference: Turner, Left End; Smith, Right
Guard; Meiers, Righ Halfback; and Mitchell, Fullback. Harlan Turner was
awarded a position on the first Little All-State High School Team, picked by
the Chicago Daily News. Coyner Smith, Bill Meiers, and Delbert Mitchell
received honorable mention.
The 1956 football team had the best record since 1949; they finished
the season with six wins and three losses — no ties.
In 1960 the record was seven wins, two losses — the best record since
the undefeated team of 1958. The best year since 1960 was 1965 with a rec-
cord of five wins, three losses and one tie.
Football was discontinued by the Board of Education after the 1967
season, for the lack of man power, but because of many arguments from
the football fans of Waverly, it was reinstated — not as a conference team
but as one playing teams from the schools the size of Waverly.
BASKETBALL
The first basketball game played against another high school was,
strangely enough, a girls' game. It was played outdoors in the school yard
on the east side of the square, November 11, 1911. The Waverly girls defeated
the Greenfield girls, 3-1. Then after the high school was built, basketball
became a major sport. Through the years, Waverly has had many good
basketball teams. On Jaunary 25, 1935, the Waverly basketball team won
the M.S.M. tournament, defeating Virden, Pawnee and Auburn in Conference
Tourney; they also defeated Franklin at Ashland.
Waverly has reached the semi-finals on seven occasions, and the other
six years were knocked out the the first round. The Scotties' best record in
M.S.M. Conference has been seven wins and three losses in the 1964-65
season. Chuck Ross was Captain of the team and held the highest scoring
average in the conference that year.
The Holiday Tournament was started in 1951, the same year the new
gym was completed. It has been held annually since that date. A number
of schools belong and it is an outstanding event during the Christmas Holi-
days, drawing large crowds and furnishing entertainment for young and
Page Fifty-nine
old who enjoy sports. The Scotties won the tournament in 1963, beating
Triopia in the finals.
The Scotties entered the Winchester Tournament but have not been
too successful. They are also members of the Ashland Tournament and
won in 1960 and 1961.
Double elimination was started in the 1967 tournament at Waverly.
TRACK
Track has not been as popular as football and basketball in Waverly,
but it is getting more attention each year. Waverly High School played
baseball instead of track for a number of years, but it has turned back to
track, because of the benefits of the great individual sport.
Now, we would like to tell you how Waverly High School got the name
"Scotties." This name was chosen for the high school athletic teams early
in the 1936-37 basketball season. Coach Forrest W. "Frosty" England sug-
gested the high scttool team should have a name, and Principal A W. Heath
approved the idea; a contest for a name was held. The following committee
— "D. D." Harney, Margaret Lythell, Florence Mader, Jeanette Mader,
Mary O'Heren and" Helen Peebles — submitted "Scotties" as suitable be-
cause the town was named for Sir Walter Scott's novels. The students
voted approval, hence the "moniker" — "Scotties."
BASEBALL
The Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 42, April 7, 1870, carried the following
notice: "The members of the Base Ball Club will meet at Dr. Benedict's
office this evening, for the purpose of organizing. Come boys, let there be
a full turn-out."
The first recorded baseball game, as reported in the Waverly Gazette
in its next issue following the game, was played July 21, 1870, between the
Waverly Batts and the Virden Shoe Flies. Waverly won by the score of 42
to 18. Some years later when the Waverly Star Store team became one of
the best in this part of the state, there were a number of outstanding play-
ers. The battery was "Cap" Kemper and Dick Morris. Others were Dick's
brothers, Billy and Doug, and the Cody brothers. Nick Cody, who passed
away in March, 1957, was the pitcher and the last living member of the old
"Star Mine," a colorful baseball team sponsored by the Star Store. They
were identified by the white stars on their caps, and they won more than
their share of the games about the turn of the century. Nick and his brother
Jim were often battery mates on this club, with Nick on the mound and Jim
behind the plate; however, the former had the distinction of serving either
as pitcher or catcher on occasion.
In later years, baseball in Waverly has not been too active, but softball
has become Waverly's summer sport. The Waverly K. of P.'s have spon-
sored softball and Little League for many years. They have produced some
fine softball teams in the past. In 1952 there was a girls' softball team
managed by Joe Aubrey.
GOLF
Golf has been played by numerous Waverly athletes over the years
but cannot become a popular sport because of the necessity to go elsewhere
to find a course. During the school year of 1963-64 there was a golf team of
four or five players under the coaching of Robert Price.
Page Sixty
THEATERS
Messerly's Hall was for many years Waverly's Opera House. Mr.
Wilson M. Smith bought the building at auction in March of 1936. Like most
opera houses it was an unofficial register of many who had printed or scrib-
bled their names on its walls. Quoted from Waverly Journal, October 7,
1938, "This Interested Us" column — 'The outstanding name that I remem-
ber in connection with the heyday of Messerly's Hall way back in the eighties
was the Kelly Komedy Kompany, the three K's. This company made fre-
quent visits here for a number of years and together with other grade school
boys, I was generally seated on the front row, making as much noise as
possible and being just as much of a nuisance as any lad of this generation.
We sat close enough to the stage to reach the foot lights. You remember
them, perhaps, old fashioned oil lamps with tin reflectors."
The earliest date found in Messerly Hall was February 25, 1883. This
was the date Alabama Jubilee Singers paid Waverly a visit.
The Arions appeared on Messerly's Hall stage on February 4, 1888,
and Steinard's Sketch Team Entertainment Company on October 23, 1892.
The walls were also used for written comment on the town — good,
bad or emphatic! One troupe evidently had a very poor week as is indi-
cated by the following — "This is the Rottenest Town on Earth." On the
better side of the ledger we find Blankner's Specialty Company and these
glad words: "Good Town. Dr. Blankner did $759.00 on the week. Jammed
House Every Night." Mr. Wilson M. Smith recalls winning $2.00 as first
prize in an essay contest that featured the week's stand here.
Many home talent plays were given in those days and many local
names still adorn Messerly Hall.
BIJOU
The Bijou Theater was the next show place in town. C. F. Allen
bought the theater from A. B. Anderson, who had recently bought it from
B. L. Peebles.
CITY HOTEL
The third step in Waverly's theater progress was by way of the city
hotel built in 1882 by Napoleon Copley and possibly Nick Walker with John
Henry as brick mason, for Smiley Luttrell, owners.
There were numerous transfers of the hotel between 1924 and 1934. The
final transfer by Mrs. Edward Barrick to John Rhea was June 18, 1935. He
leased it to Mrs. Lanham. Razing of city hotel started in September, 1937.
It was rebuilt as the Rex Theater in 1937-38. First show was on January 7,
1938. It remained a movie theater with several shows a week until sold to
a corporation.
BOWLING
Several years ago a group of interested Waverly citizens decided that
Waverly needed a Bowling Alley. In order to have the needed capital to
finance such a project, they formed a Corporation, sold stock and used the
funds to purchase the old Rex Theatre Building at the northwest corner of
the square.
The building was renovated, and a lengthy addition was added to the
back in order to accommodate a six-lane alley. A modern restaurant was
installed in the front and bowling came to Waverly in July, 1963.
Bowling has been very popular here ever since, with young and old
both participating.
Page Sixty-one
\\ /
%) v KOREA
Page Sixty-two
WARS
No depredations by the Indians were ever committeed among the set-
tlers of Morgan County, and no record of the killing of any white men after
the settling of the county is known to have occurred.
THE WINNEBAGO WAR
Fully described in the following article, written by Judge William
Thomas, for the weekly JOURNAL of August 17, 1871. As it gives an accur-
ate account of the participation of several Morgan County men in this con-
flict, it is worthy of a place in the history of the county:
"But few of the actors in this war remain among us. In 1827, General
Edwards received information on which he relied, that the Winnebago In-
dians had attacked some keel-boats, which had been employed conveying
army supplies to Prairie du Chien, on their return down the river, and that
settlers and miners on Fox River were in imminent danger of an attack
from a band of these and other Indians. The general ordered the command-
ers of the different regiments and odd battalions of General Harrison's
brigade on the eastern side of the Illinois River — excepting the 20th regi-
ment — to take immediate steps for detaching into service, according to law,
one-fourth of their respective commands. And should any part of the fron-
tiers south of Rock River be invaded by the savages, the colonel entitled by
law to command the detachment, was ordered to march with the least possi-
ble delay to the support of the point attacked, without waiting for further
orders."
BLACK HAWK
Black Hawk was chief now of the Sacand Rox nations, and a noted
warrior. He and his tribe inhabited a Village on Rock River, nearly three
miles above its confluence with the Mississippi, where the tribe had lived
many generations. When that portion of Illinois was reserved to them, they
remained in peaceable possession of their reservation, spending their time in
the enjoyment of Indian life. The fine situation of their village and the
quality of their lands incited the more lawless white settlers, who from time
to time began to encroach upon the red men's domain. From one pretext
to another, and from one step to another, the crafty white men gained a
foothold, until through whiskey and artifice they obtained deeds from many
of the Indians for their possessions. The Indians were finally induced to
cross over the Father of Waters and locate among the Iowas. Black Hawk
would not agree to the terms of the treaty made with his nation for their
lands, and as soon as the military, called to enforce his removal, had re-
tired, he returned to the Illinois side of the River. A large force was at once
raised and marched against him. On the evening of May 14, 1832, the first
engagement occurred between a band from this army and Black Hawk's
band, in which the former were defeated.
This attack and its result aroused the whites. A large force of men
was raised, and General Scott hastened from the seaboard, by way of the
lakes, with United States troops and artillery to aid in the subjugation of
the Indians. On the 24th of June, Black Hawk, with 200 warriors, was re-
pulsed by Major Demont between Rock River and Galena. The American
army continued to move up Rock River toward the main body of the In-
dians and on the 21st of July came upon Black Hawk and his band, defeating
them near the Blue Mounds.
Page Sixty-three
Before this action, General Henry, in command, sent word to the main
army, by whom he was immediately rejoined, and the whole army crossed
the Wisconsin in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band, who were fleeing to
the Mississippi. They were overtaken on the 2nd of August, and in the bat-
tle which followed, the power of the Indian chief was completely broken.
On the 21st of September, 1832, General Scott and Governor Reynolds
concluded a treaty with the Indian nations. For the faithful performance
of the provisions of the treaty on the part of the Indians, it was stipulated
that Black Hawk, his two sons, the prophet Wabokieshiek, and six other
chiefs of the hostile bands should be retained as hostages during th3 pleasure
of the president. They were confined at Fort Barracks and put in irons.
MORMON CONFLICT
A brief account of the sect styled Mormons, or "Latter Day Saints,"
is given in "The Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois" (page 384). "After
their settlement at Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, in 1840, their conduct
soon became so lawless and defiant that the authority of the state was finally
necessary to put a stop to their pretensions and practices. The militia was
called out. Many citizens of Morgan County responded and participated in
that campaign. Conspicuous among them was Colonel John J. Hardin, who
rendered wise and efficient counsel and service in the suppression and re-
moval of this organization in 1846, who, led by Bringham Young, settled
in Utah."
WAR BETWEEN THE STATES
On August 8th, 1862, the following interesting item appeared in the
Springfield Press:
Waverly, Illinois. The little town in the southeast corner of Morgan
County is patriotic to the core and has covered itself with glory. In the
space of forty-eight hours after the receipt of the new order from the War
Department, the citizens of that place and vicinity, by common consent,
without the aid of a recruiting officer or of anyone authorized to raise a
company, organized from their midst a company of 107 men, good and true,
and on yesterday some of the citizens were in this city to report to the
adjutant General's office. The Waverly Company belongs to the Morgan
County list, but it deserves a special notice or the patriotism displayed by
those engaged in its organization.
WORLD WARS I AND II - KOREAN
The fact that Waverly has a very active and progressive American
Legion Post and Auxiliary is a constant testimony of the loyalty and pa-
triotism of its people.
There has been active participation by both men and women in the
wars of this century. Since the state is second in agriculture and third in
manufacturing, much was expected of Illinois during war, and she surpassed
all expectations in those fields.
During the Korean conflict of 1950-1953, more than fifty per cent of
its National Guard were inducted into federal service.
Page Sixty-four
VIETNAM
"The split between the Soviets and the Chinese became wider in 1953
as the Chinese Communists spread their influence in Southeast Asia, and
the United States found itself faced by a new danger."
Communist forces, encouraged by Red China, were active in Laos,
South Vietnam, and Northern Thailand. In 1961 President Kennedy and
Kruschchev had agreed to make Laos neutral, but South Vietnam, formerly
a French possession, was another matter. North Vietnam had already been
taken over by Communists. The United States decided it would not allow
South Vietnam to be overrun by Communists.
Step by step Americans were drawn into large scale fighting in South
Vietnam. First, beginning in 1954, the United States provided a program of
"aid" to the South Vietnamese. Then it found it had to send the Military
"advisers.." As the North Vietnamese were spreading in ever larger num-
bers over South Vietnam, our country began to send troops in 1961. By the
summer of 1P66 the United States had between 250,000 and 300,000 men in-
volved directly or indirectly in trying to stop the Communist enemy in Viet-
nam, and the number has been greatly increased since then.
President Johnson addressed the Nation Sunday night, March 31, 1968
at 8 o'clock, explaining our policies and strategy in Vietnam at the present
time. He ordered a halt in the bombing in Vietnam, except in the pan-
handle of the North, in order, if possible, to promote peace talks. This is
the 39th effort made by the President to bring Hanoi to the Peace Table.
The President is seeking not only an honorable, just Peace in this conflict,
but a universal peace for the world; the idealistic goal of arbitration, not
armed conflict.
Page Sixty-five
cu^en Freeze
-S>
W
i¥^
d
SucKC RS
Page Sixty-six
DEEP SNOW
The old settlers of Morgan, Cass and Scott Counties, in the organiza-
tion of their society for a number of years limited membership to those who
could date their residence here to the period of the "Deep Snow."
In the latter part of November, 1830, snow commenced falling and
continued to fall at intervals until January, 1331. As one snow fell upon
another, the wind at times blowing very hard, there soon accumulated a
depth in places from seven to twelve feet, covering fences and small build-
ings entirely, and causing great distress to the inhabitants, as well as to
stock and wild game. The sun occasionally melted the surface, and the
cold nights would freeze it hard enough to bear a man or beast. Many suf-
fered severely, both for food and warmth, not having made preparation for
such a cold spell. Many instances of suffering might be given, but so many
have been reported in neighborhood circles, and others published, it would
seem needless to repeat them. The winter of the "Deep Snow" is referred
to by all the early settlers, forming a data to refer to, as any incident hap-
pening so long a time before or after it. Until February, 1831, when the
snow went off with a great freshet, the ground was not seen.
In the fall of 1833 there occurred a strange phenomenon. On the night
of the 13th of November, there was an apparent falling of the stars, like
rain from the clouds. The unusual and extraordinary event created con-
siderable alarm among the people.
SUDDEN FREEZE
While the average temperature in winter was 29.26 degrees, cold
"snaps" were of frequent occurrence. On January 28, 1873, the temperature
fell to 40 degrees below zero throughout the central and northern portions
of the state. With the snow in some places 16 inches deep, this was the
coldest day ever known in Illinois.
The most memorable instance of such a sudden fall of temperature
occurred December 20, 1836. Several inches of snow had fallen on that day,
and it was warm enough for rain to fall in the afternoon, which melted the
snow into slush and water. About 2:00 o'clock in the afternoon it began to
grow dark, from a heavy, black cloud which was seen in the northwest.
Almost instantly the strong wind, traveling at the rate of seventy miles an
hour, accompanied by a deep, bellowing sound, with its icy blast, swept
over the land, and everything was instantly frozen hard. The water of the
little pools in the roads froze in waves, sharp-edged and pointed, as the gale
had blown it. The chickens, pigs, and other small animals were frozen in
their tracks. Wagon wheels, ceasing to roll, froze to the ground. Men,
going to their barns or fields, a short distance from their houses, in slush
and water, returned a few minutes later walking on the ice. Some caught
out on horseback were frozen to their saddles, and had to be lifted off and
carried to the fire to be thawed out.
Two young men were frozen to death near Rushville. One of them
was found sitting with his back against a tree, with his horse's bridle over
his arm, and his horse frozen in front of him. The other was partly in a
kneeling position, with a tinder-box in one hand and a flint in the other, with
both eyes open, as if intent on trying to strike a light. Many other casual-
ties were reported. As to the exact temperature, however, no instrument
has left any record; but the ice was frozen in the streams, as variously re-
ported, from six inches to a foot in thickness, in a few hours. Such sudden,
Page Sixty-seven
violent, and extreme changes were so exceptional as to be remarkable.
Judge Samuel Wood, of Morgan County, and others then residing in the
county were reliable authorities for the foregoing account of the "Sudden
Freeze" of that memorable day and event.
Judge Wood says he was nearly a mile from home, in the prairie,
when the blast struck him. The slush and water were several inches deep,
and before he could get home he could walk upon the top, as they were
frozen hard.
Mr. Huram Reeve also remembered that the day was warm and
showery during the afternoon. Near two o'clock in the afternoon it grew
dark, as if a rain storm was coming, and in an instant, the strong wind,
with an icy blast, came and all was frozen. He found raccoons, opossums
and other animals frozen to death. Between two o'clock p.m. and nine
o'clock a.m. the next day, the ice had frozen six inches thick.
Daniel L. Clarke says that on the morning following the sudden freeze
on the previous afternoon, he rode his horse across Indian Creek on the ice,
and had him in the stable before sunrise, and that the ice was one foot thick.
WARM WINTER, 1877
On the 19th of October, 1877, it commenced raining, and continued to
rain, more or less, every day up to December 27th. On Christmas day
fish worms were crawling on the sidewalks, and the streets of Jacksonville
were almost impassable for teams. Few persons came into the city except
on foot or by the railroads. Business was almost suspended. Deep mud,
and more or less rain, continued until the middle of March, 1878.
CLIMATOLOGICAL
Meterological Phenomena: The Dry Season of 1820 — Wind Story of
1821 — Cyclone of 1825 — The Dep Snow, 1830-31 — Shooting Stars of 1833 —
The Sudden Freeze of 1836 — Little Indian Cyclone of 1845 — Snow Storm of
1855 — Cyclones of 1855, '56, '59 — The Warm Winter of 1877 — Cyclone of
1880 — The Great Sleet Storm of 1883 — Greasy Prairie and Literberry Cy-
clones of 1883 — The Coldest Day, 1884 — Memorable Hail Storm of 1884 —
The Hottest Day, 1869.
CHOLERA
In July and August, 1833, Jacksonville suffered greatly from an epi-
demic of cholera. The first case was that of the wife of a mover who was
traveling through the country by wagon. Stopping there, his wife was taken
sick. The citizens went to their assistance, and the woman's disease was
pronounced a case of genuine Asiatic cholera. The sick woman and family
were conveyed to a log cabin outside of town, located on the site of the home
of Mr. George Mauzy, on North Sandy Street. The woman died, and people
burned the clothing and bedding and furnished the man with money and
sent him on. Jacksonville at that time contained about five hundred inhabi-
tants, fully half of whom fled to the country. Of those who remained, about
75 were attacked by the epidemic and about 55 died. A number of those
who fled to the country also died. Among those who died were the wife and
children of Rev. John M. Ellis, during his absence from home while prose-
cuting his educational work in Indiana. The scourge lasted six weeks, and
was the most terrible that ever visited Jacksonville.
In 1851, the cholera again visited the southeast part of the county. The
path of the scourge was a narrow strip southward as far as Belleville. A
Page Sixty-eight
number of persons died from the epidemic in Waverly and vicinity, among
whom were Rev. Wilson S. McMurray, pastor of the Methodist Church there,
and his wife and two children.
EARLY WEDDINGS
'"The marriage ceremony in those days was a very unceremonious
affair." Says John McConnell, whose excellent description in his Western
sketches we quote in full: "The parents never made a parade about any-
thing — marriage least of all. They usually gave the bride a bed, a lean
horse, and some good advice; and having thus discharged their duty, re-
turned to their work and business was done." The bride of the pioneer was
clothed in linsey-woolsey with hose of woolen yarn and moccasins of deer
skin or, as an extra piece of finery, high quartered shoes of calf skin. The
bridegroom came in copper-colored jeans — domestic manufactured — as
a holiday suit. Perhaps he wore a hunting cap and a powder pouch.
NICKNAME "SUCKERS"
There are several stories told concerning the origin of the nickname,
"Suckers." The most logical one concerns George Rogers Clark's attack
upon the French town of Kaskaskia. It was summer and a very hot day,
and as he entered the town, he saw Frenchmen sitting quitely on their little
verandahs, in front of their houses, sucking their juleps through straws. He
rushed upon them, crying, "Surrender, you suckers, you!" The Frenchmen
surrendered and from that day to this, Illinoisians have been known as
"Suckers."
Another account of the origin of the name "Suckers" is attributed to
the custom of early emigrants who, when passing through the state and
finding a scant supply of water on the prairies, would thrust a sharpened
stick three or four feet down into the loose, porous soil. A short time after,
the stick would be withdrawn, and the hole would partially fill with water
The emigrant would then insert a long, hollow reed through which he would
suck up sufficient water to quench his thirst. From the custom of sucking
the water through these hollow tubes, the early inhabitants are said to have
derived the name of "Suckers."
SHAKERAG
Way back in early Waverly Days, there was a flour mill in the south-
west part of town, about where the Primitive Baptist Church is now located.
It was operated by a man by the name of John Gunnells, father of the late
Mrs. Mary McKee and John Gunnells, Jr., as related to the Journal. That
part of town was not built up as it is now, and it was all open space from
the mill to the Gunnells' residence at or just west of the present junction of
Routes No. 104 and 111. Nothing broke the view between the mill and the
Gunnells home, and in order to let the men at the mill know when dinner
was ready, Mrs. Gunnells would go to the door and wave a rag. One of the
children would generally be at the mill and, like most children, looking
forward anxiously for dinner time, would be on the lookout, come noontime,
and when the signal came that dinner was ready, would yell, "Daddy, the
rag's a shakin' ."
Most people did not know that the name came from the pioneer custom
of signalling by the shaking of a rag. In the article the Journal stated that
one other place in the United States has a Shake Rag — Mineral Point, Wis-
consin — having a street by that name, and that it received its name in the
same manner as Waverly's famed "Shakerag." Mrs. W. L. Henderson re-
Page Sixty-nine
ports that there is a cross roads community in Pike County, Indiana, by the
name of Shakerag.
SALTER PARK
Waverly was honored last Friday (1935) by a visit to the city by Miss
Matilda Salter of St. Louis. Miss Salter is a granddaughter of Cleveland J.
Salter, who may be honored as the "Father of Waverly."
Miss Salter was a member of the Waverly Congregational Church
while she was a resident of the town. For many years, she has resided with
her brother, Mr. John Salter, a prominent physician in St. Louis.
Miss Salter attended the centennial of 1935 and gave historical ad-
dresses. Though advanced in years, she is still loyal to Waverly. She was
happy when she learned that by action of the City Council, the name of the
"square" had been officially changed to "Salter Park."
LAFAYETTE'S CARRIAGE
General Marquis de LaFayette, the ally of the American people in the
Revolutionary War, visited this country in the years of 1824 and 1825. He
met with the misfortune of having his carriage overturn into the river, and
its white silk linings were thereby very much damaged. Taking another, he
proceeded on his journey, leaving orders to have his carriage sold. It was
bought by Mr. Drury, an uncle of the late Charles J. Drury, of Morgan Coun-
ty, whose father, Lawson Drury, Jr., came to Illinois in the spring of 1831
and died at the age of thirty-three of cholera, at the farm now occupied by
his grandson, Mr. Frank Drury, near Orleans.
LIQUOR IN HARVEST FIELDS
As to the use of intoxicating liquor in harvest fields, Mr. F. Gorham,
father of Josiah Gorham, now of Champaign County, claims the credit of
being the first farmer in this country who refused to furnish "ardent spirits"
to laborers employed in the harvest field, and in raising a barn, he furnished
as a substitute ginger beer and buttermilk.
Mr. Silas Massey, who bought land here about 1832, was another farm-
er, it not the first in Morgan County, who succeeded in having his harvest
done without whiskey, and when the men declined to work without it, he told
them he could just turn his hogs in the wheat and they would take care of
the harvesting, and not say whiskey once. The men stopped complaining
and harvested it.
AUTOMOBILE POLO
In the early twenties, the sport of Auto-Polo developed in Waverly. It
was a major attraction at picnics and celebrations. A minor crash in 1923
was reported in the Waverly Journal; no one seriously injured, however. It
must have been a very exciting sport, from the crowds pictured at the
events. One of our strets was roped off and the fun began. Information on
this sport is meager; however, Dr. C. F Deatherage could answer questions.
A picture of the game is given on another page.
Ref. _ Illinois State Historical Library. Journal. Taken from
"Diary of Anna R. Morrison, wife of Isaac L. Morrison," April, 1914.
Monday, December 28, "Started early this morning for Waverly; ar-
rived about 11 o'clock. The driver took us to the only house he knew of
where strangers were received; a shocking place. The room assigned to
me, which I might call a garret (attic), is reached by means of a ladder
going up from the summer kitchen."
Page Seventy
AUTO POLO TEAMS
Left Team: Ross Garman; Maurice Turnbuli, driver.
Right Team: Dr. C. F. Deatherage; Glenn Smedley, driver.
Ref. — Illinois State Historical Library. Journal. Page 57, "Abraham Lin-
coln, Judge David Davis and Judge Edward Bates/' by John M. Landsden.
"Mr. Abraham Lincoln gave his first political speech at Waverly, in
Morgan County. He was dressed in a black suit and appeared very much
indeed as he appeared in what is said to be the earliest picture of him now
in existence, one taken, I believe, in 1848.
HISTORY OF MORGAN COUNTY
BURNING WITCHES — In 1834, near Middle Creek, now in Cass Coun-
ty, but at that time in Morgan, a religious society of fanatics was organized,
who not only believed in Witchcraft, but actually made offerings of them-
selves, and were burned at the stake, to appease and propitiate, as they
believed, their offended deity, and cast lots whom of their members should be
burned at the stake. Once the lot fell on an old lady, whom the others tied
and bound to the stake. When she began to burn she screamed so loudly and
pitifully that a Mr. Elmore, who was hunting nearby, broke open the door
with a fence rail, released the burning woman, and broke up the meetings.
The grand jury of Morgan County indicted many members, and the religious
fanatics left the country.
CENTENNIAL 1935
(Taken from Jacksonville Daily Journal, August 8, 1935)
Oxen and automobile moved together through the street here this
afternoon while airplanes whirred overhead, reminding Waverly citizens and
many visitors of changes that have transpired during a century. The strange
assortment of ancient vehicles in the procession was brought out for the
Waverly Centennial parade, a spectacle as impressive as any ever wit-
nessed here.
Page Seventy-one
Old carriages, bicycles of ancient vintage, carriages that were first
pulled by horses that never heard the backfire of an automobile or gazed at
a traffic light, joined the parade of new and old. The contrast was vivid,
for the parade was well staged and a historical note was dominant.
Headed by the Roodhouse D.O.K.K. drum and bugle corps of thirty
pieces in vari-colored uniforms, the parade moved around the square at
four o'clock, climaxing a day of speaking, music and sociability.
A prairie schooner drawn by two oxen lumbered along in much the
same fashion as Waverly's first settlers arrived one hundred years ago. The
oxen were provided by a Sangamon County farmer.
The country doctor and his means of travel were graphically depicted
by Waverly's four physicians. Dr. Paul Allyn, wearing a long coat and silk
hat, rode a horse. Dr. Walter H. Allyn and Dr. N. J. Hughes followed in a
buggy, while Dr. E. W. Crum rode in an automobile.
THE WAVERLY GAZETTE
June 24, 1869 - February 23, 1871
Motto — "Independent in all things — neutral in nothing."
Editors: Miles J. Abbott, W. D. Pemberton
A HINT
The members of the Waverly Curbstone Association and the staring
statues which ornament our town on Sundays at diverse places, are re-
quested to give special attention to the following hint which is inserted at
the request of a large number of ladies of this town.
"Standing on the sidewalk Staring at the ladies
Smoking my cigar, Surely what a treat,
Nothing under heaven, Bless Me! This is pleasant
My happiness can mar, Loafing on the Street."
This comment found in Volume 1, Number 7, August 5, 1869, of the Waverly
Gazette is proof man has changed little over the years.
The approach of the Christmas season was heralded in the Gazette
with this item: "The pupils of the Waverly Academy are devoting their
spare time to the construction of a magnificent 'Christmas Tree'."
The Gazette of January 6, 1870, gives a detailed description of the
Christmas Tree and its many gifts in the following account. "Christmas Eve
of 1869 will long be remembered by the scholars of the Public School. Their
Christmas tree was a decided success, and everything connected with it
passed off to the satisfaction of all concerned. The little folks enjoyed their
cornucopias of sweet meats, and many a little heart was gladdend by the
pretties and goodies that came from boughs of the almost inexhaustable tree.
Messers Lybarger and Salter did the Santa Claus, and were prolific in good
jokes, always appreciating the fine points and making suitable application.
Some of our dignified citizens were delighted to receive Jumpin-jacks and
rocking horses. While the Professor saw himself in a bottle through a pair
of glasses (spectacles), the assistants each received a china doll and other
things that were not china. Sturdy bachelors received toy cradles from — to
remind them of their neglected obligations to society and the world. One of
our temperance advocates was the happy recipient of a cornucopia contain-
ing a bottle of whiskey, flanked on the right and left with a suitable guard
of cinnamon and cloves; while ye virtuous editor would respectfully ack-
nowledge the receipt in his cornucopia of a letter from some fair unknown,
Page Seventy-two
containing a fifty cent greenback, but would state that we are incorruptible.
Many received elegant and substantial presents, which we will not enumerate.
The party dispersed in good season and in a pleasant humor — only
wishing Christmas might come oftener."
EDITORIAL OF DECEMBER 22, 1870
"Throughout all the countries of Christendom, this day is held sacred
from the cares of life. It is a holiday with pleasures for all. It is a time-
honored season for devotion, for smiles, for shouts of glee and laughter, for
lively pleasures of social enjoyment.
The gray-haired sires and their scattered children, neighbors, and
friends are accustomed to meet together to blend their happy feelings, and
enjoy the day in mutual mirth, pleasantness, free and easy converse, and
savory festivities. The young are especially merry on this day. By the
blessings of Santa Claus they are enriched with toys, sweet things and nick-
nacks of all kinds.
"On this day all the imps of darkness that infest the human soul
should flee to the shades of Hades. All should be glad and jovial; all should
mutually bathe in the sunlight of each other's happy heart.
"A 'Merry Christmas' and a 'Happy New Year' then to all our readers.
We wish you plenty of mince pies and roast turkey, and pyramids of sweet
'doins' whose moutaintops are lost in the frost and snow and sublime foam
of sugary mantels. May you pile up the pies and sweet 'agonies,' stratum
after stratum, till mid the plentitude of savory cheer you are constrained
to cry out, "It's good that Christmas is here.'
Editors and printers are fallible men, with gaping stomachs also about
Christmas times. They wish also to enjoy the holidays, so we must eschew
pens and types and 'chew' some of the good things, too, if we get them.
Therefore we will publish no other paper till after said holiday.
"Once more a 'Merry Christmas' to you all, tendering you our heart-
iest congratulations and best wishes for your health and happiness through-
out the new year."
A most unusual request was made of the Methodist minister as follows:
"Published by request —
A discourse upon the nativity of Christ, Waverly, Illinois, December
27, 1869, Rev. W. McK. McElfresh: Believing that the publication of your
sermon delivered in the M. E. Church, on Sabbath Morning, December 26.
should be conducive of good to the community, we, the undersigned, would
respectfully ask a copy of the same for publication in the Gazette of this
city: Mr. Abbott having kindly consented to the use of his columns."
J. F. Woodmansee R. E. McVey W. T. Blaney
J. E. Barrett J. W. Manson J. M. Hutchinson
Elisha Miner J. A. Crain
SOCIAL PARTIES
"Were we gifted with the spirit of poesy, we might consult our favor-
ite muse and give to the world — our little world of readers, we mean — an
account of a social party on Friday evening, that would partake less of the
prosaic than that we are about to endite. But as nature has endowed us
with a better appreciation of nature's poseys than with a knowledge of Dry-
den's 'heavenly gift of poesy,' we are compelled to tell it in a straightfor-
ward way.
Page Seventy-three
Having Chartered a buggy for the occasion, about seven o'clock found
us, ('us' in this case means the editor and, w— ell, to go on with story), pro-
ceeding across the country six miles north to the residence of Mr. Robert
Fleming, by the way, a well-to-do farmer, universally respected for his
manliness, integrity, and good qualities generally.
Arriving at our destination, we found him, his amiable wife, and our
young friend Crit Fleming, already beseiged by more than four score of the
youth and beauty of Franklin, Waverly, and country round about. After a
merry time downstairs, upstairs and in every available place, and way, for
the hospitable doors were thrown wide open for the enjoyment of all and
which all did enjoy according to their several abilities, supper was an-
nounced and the party adjourned to the dining room, where an abundant
feast was elegantly served. Oysters, cake, pies, preserves, hot coffee, jellies,
etc., made up the bountiful repast which all pronounced perfectly 'splendid.'
"Then again to the parlors, where various amusements were freely
indulged in until long past low twelve, when the party began to disperse
with radiant faces and happy hearts, more than pleased with the evening's
experiences." Again the editor enumerated all the women present, but no
mention of the men.
THE SQUARE
The public square, donated by Mr. C. J. Salter, was surrounded by a
rail fence, as late as 1846- A year or two later it was replaced by a plank
fence; the square was then cleaned of dock and weeds and made more at-
tractive.
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 43, April 10, 1870: "Why not use the street
loafers as hitching posts? We regard them as permanent fixtures."
Waverly Gazette, Vol 1, No. 25, December 5, 1869: Editor's comment,
quote:
"The night air in this place has a damaging effect on wood. We hear
of several woodpiles, which, in a single night, have shrunken to less than
two-thirds their original size the day before. It is a subject for scientific
investigation."
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 38, March 10, 1870:
"We have no desire to accommodate our own stiff -neckedness, but we
wish to be very considerate, and we think it would be an act of Christianity
to furnish some of the Waverly Churchgoers with seats resting on pivots,
that they may see who comes in without straining their necks."
WEDDINGS
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 36, February 27, 1870:
"Married, Sunday evening, February 27, 1870, at the residence of the
bride's father in Waverly, by Rev. J. H. Austin, Mr. James E. Summers
and Miss Mattie Hanley. Cake received, for which the bride will please
accept our thanks."
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 13, September 13, 1869:
"Married, September 12, 1869, at the residence of the bride's father
in Waverly, by Rev. W. McElfresh, Mr. Norman Agard and Miss Marlotte
Ward. We acknowledge the receipt of a bountiful supply of luscious cake."
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 6, July 29, 1869:
"Married, August 1, 1869, by Rev. W. McElfresh, Mr. W. H. Scott and
Miss Mary Javins, all of this place. No cards, no cake."
Page Seventy-four
CHAPTER XII - BIBLIOGRAPHY
Chapter I — Introduction
Reference Books
History of Morgan County, Illinois. Pub. Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Chicago,
1878. Illinois Blue Book, 1955, 1956, 1965, 1966
Chapter II — Early Settlement of Waverly
Atlas Maps of Moran County, Illinois. By Andreas, Lyter and Co.,
1872 pp. 38-43
Morgan City, Yatesville, Neelyville, cities that died out and didn't develop.
Book Inventory of the County — Archives of Illinois, No. 69
Mr. Wilson M. Smith — a citizen of Waverly
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois & History of Morgan County
H — 977-3-1032 his Ed. 1905 — pp. 660-664
Revised Ordinances of the City of Waverly, 1888
The Waverly Code of 1916 — Waverly Carnegie Library
Old Settlers of Morgan County — 1872, p. 62
Waverly Journal — May, 1885; October 11, 1918
Illinois State Register — May 31, 1915
Chapter III — "Our Many Firsts"
History of Morgan County, Illinois. Its Past and Present — Pub.
Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Chicago, 1878, pp. 420, 425, 426
Jacksonville Daily Journal — July 4, 1935
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 2, No. 25, December 8, 1870
Waverly Journal, May 25, 1883 and October 7, 1966
Chapter IV - "Our Founders Faith"
Primitive Baptist — Mr. and Mrs. John Andersen, 1957 and 1968
Congregational Church — Billie Lyons and Miss Lura Allen, 1968
50 and 100 years celebration pamphlet
Methodist Episcopal Church — Joella Brown, 1957 ; Mr. Leslie Kumler, 1968
Christian Church — Mrs. Guy Martin, 1957 and 1968
Baptist Church — Rev. Kater, 1957; Rev. Cooper, 1968
Catholic Church — Hershel Fitzpatrick, 1957; Father Cassidy, 1968
Lutheran Church — Minister and Lee Marr, 1957; Arnold Duewer, 1968
Chapter V — Education
History of Morgan County, Illinois. Its Past and Present
1878. Pub., Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Chicago, pp. 330-331
Atlas Map of Morgan County, Illinois, p. 46
The Waverly Code, 1916, p. 6
History of Morgan County (Earnes 1878), p. 707
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 2, No. 19, October 20, 1870
1968 report from high school office files
Chapter VI — Our Business World
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Morgan County, p. 664
History of Morgan County, Illinois, 1878. pp. 425-426
Mr. Wilson M. Smith
Shop Talk, by Jack Rodgers and Star Store, January 18, 1923
Vol. 2, No. 8, p. 7
Newspapers —
Waverly Journal — September 12, 1930 — July 10, 1931 — September 26,
1941 — April 26, 1957 — Vol. 85., No. 10
Waverly Journal — March 25, 1955 — April 22, 1955 — June 15, 1955 —
July 6, 1956 — October 26, 1956 — November 9, 1956 — November 16,
1956 — November 30, 1956 — October 21, 1950 — October 21, 1938
Waterworks and Sewerage System, Docket Illinois, 1180-D.S. Nov. 17, 1937
Council passed the gas ordinance, Waverly Journal, March 25, 1955
Election for gas system carried, Waverly Journal, April 22. 1955
Contract awarded Vedal Pipe Line Const. Co., Waverly Journal, May 18, 1956
Work started July 10, Waverly Journal, July 6. 1956
Dedication November 10, 1956, Waverly Journal, November 9, 1956
Gas to Consumers, Waverly Journal, November 9, 1956
Page Seventy-five
Illinois Historical Collection, Vol. VI
Newspapers and Periodicals of Illinois, 1814-1879, Scott pp. 353-354
Mrs. George P. Romang, "Down Waverly Way"
Dial System, Waverly Journal, June 4, 1954, Vol. 82, No. 15. August 20,
1954, August 27, 1954. April 19, 1968. D.D.D., May 10, 1968
Chapter VII — Cultural Development
Woman's Club — Mrs. W. H. Jones, 1957; 1968
Library — Billy Gibson, 1957; Mrs. Melvin Deatherage, 1968
Waverly Gazette — February 24, 1870
Chapter VIII — Fraternal Orders
Masons — Mr. Lester Deatherage, 1957; Harold Lowery, 1968
Rebekahs — Miss Ruth Walters, 1957; 1968
Knights of Pvthias — Mr. James Handy, 1957; 1968
Order of Eastern Star — Mrs. E. H. Wiese, 1957; Ethel Lowery, 1968
Pytyhian Sisters — Miss Maude Mader, 1957; Doris Redfearn, 1968
American Legion — Wayne Matthews, 1957; William Watts, 1968
Auxiliary Unit — Mrs. Fred Bateman, 1957; Melba Lyons, 1968
Lions Club — Lewis Walker, 1957; W. H. Williams, 1968
Shrine Club — Dr. C. F. Deatherage, 1957; discontinued, 1968
Chamber of Commerce — Howard Stewart, 1968
Boy Scouts — Billie Hodgson, 1968
Chapter IX — Recreation and Amusements
1. Theatre — Waverly Journal, October 7, 1938, Vol. 66, No. 30
"This Interested Us" column by editor
Data on card file in Waverly Journal office, featured articles in the Wav-
erly Journal and show bills.
2. Sports — Donnie Deatherage, 1957; Bruce Twenhafel and members of
Mr. Max Edlen's American History Class, 1968
Mr. Wilson M. Smith, Mr. Bert E. Scott, Dr. C. F. Deatherage, Mr. Lester
Deatherage, and Mr. Jack Rodgers
Waverly Journal 1903 to present issues
Chapter X — Wars
History of Morgan County, Illinois, Its Past and Present, 1878.
Pub. Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Chicago, pp. 287-288
The Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois, p. 384
Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society, Vol. 25, p. 304
Eames — History of Morgan County, 1878
Illinois State Historical Society
Transactions 1905, No. 10 pp. 281-282, 314, 334-336
Illinois Blue Book — 1955, 1956
Graff — "The Free and the Brave" — Pub., Rand McNally & Co., 1967
pp. 689-690
Chapter XI — Miscellaneous
History of Morgan County, 1878, pp. 293, 290-291, 671
Pub., Donnelley, Loyd & Co., Chicago
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and
History of Morgan County, p. 640, 671-673, 676
Waverly Journal — August 1, 1947 from "Interested Us" column
Waverly Journal — August 31, 1956
Historic Morgan County and Classic Jacksonville, Eames, 1885. p. 50
Illinois State Historical Library. Journal -— Vol. 7, April, 1914. pp. 48-49.
"Diary of Anna R. Morrison, wife of Isaac L. Morrison," p. 57
Jacksonville Daily Journal — August 8, 1935
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 7, August 5, 1869
Co-operative Extension Service Paper, "Have you ever Wondered?"
by Helen Paschall, August, 1966
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 26, December 16, 1869
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 29. January 6, 1870
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 2, No. 27, December 22, 1870
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 1, No. 32, January 27, 1870
Waverly Gazette, Vol. 2, No. 25, January 5, 1871
Page Seventy-six
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBANA
977.346H12P1968 C001
PARTIAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WAVERLY. 20 ED.
2 025391605
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11