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PAST AND PRESENT
OF
ADAMS COUNTY
NEBRASKA
ILLUSTRATED
VOLUME II
CHICAGO
THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY
1916
1585318
WILLIAM R. BCRTOX
BIOGRAPHICAL
WILLIAM R. BURTON.
jMacaulaj^ has said that "the history of a country is best told in the
lives of its people," and if we would preserve the history of any
section, the facts must be preserved while those wlio have been par-
ticipants in important events still remain to tell the tale of their
activities. There is no one better qualified to speak of Adams county
and its annals than Hon. William R. Burton, so closely has he been
associated with events that figure prominently in its records. He is
a product of the frontier of Southwestern JNIissouri, where he was
born June 30, 1843, the eldest of five children born to the marriage
of Garrett Burton and Catherine Ware. He was a student in the
Northwestern Christian University at Indianapolis, Indiana, at the
time of the outbreak of the Civil war and, laying aside his textbooks,
he enlisted Juh% 1861, in response to the country's call for aid, be-
coming a member of Company E, Twenty-third Indiana Volunteer
Infantry, M'ith which he served until wounded in one of the engage-
ments of the Vicksburg campaign. After recovering from his in-
juries he served in the quartermaster's department of the Army of
the Cumberland under General Thomas until honorably discharged
at the close of the war in 1865,
For a time Mr. Burton engaged in the practice of law in Union
county, Indiana, but temporarily abandoned that profession to become
a member of the editorial staff of the Indianapolis Journal. In 1883
he removed to Adams county, Nebraska, and for a time engaged in
teaching school, but the recognition of his ability as a lawyer, his
public spirit and his trustworthiness as a citizen led to his election to
the office of judge of the city court of Hastings in 1887, every ballot
except one being cast in his favor. In 1889 he was elected county
judge and served upon the bench in that capacity until January, 1894,
his decisions being strictly fair and impartial, so that he "won golden
opinions from all sorts of people." Since then he has devoted his
attention to the jiractice of law.
5
6 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Judge Burton was married in 1873 to JMiss Anna J. Langtree, of
Madison, Indiana, and they have one son. For almost the third of a
century the family have resided in this state and throughout the entire
period JNIr. Burton has not only been an interested witness of the
events which have occurred in shaping the history of his county, but
has been a most active jiarticipant in many and on more than one
occasion has been the leader and molder of public thought and action.
JAMES P. A. BLACK.
James P. A. Black, of Hastings, is a typical western man, plain
and unassuming in manner, strong and upright in purpose, readily
adapting himself to changing conditions or the needs of any situation
and at all times alert, enterprising, progressive and honorable. He is
largely a self-educated as well as a self-made man and is one of the
stalwart characters that the west jjroduces, his powers having grown
through the exercise of effort. The feeling entertained for him
throughout the community in Avhich he lives is indicated in the fact
that he is known as "Jim" to all of his friends and yet high Honors
have come to him at the hands of his fellow toAvnsmen and success in
large measure has rewarded his efforts. He is today president of the
German National Bank of Hastings and at the same time he is widely
known as a successful lawyer and real estate dealer.
JNIr. Black was born in Prospect, Butler county, Pennsylvania,
October 10, 18.54, a son of Isaac and Jane Black, natives of Ohio and
of Pennsylvania respectivel}'. The father was a teacher during much
of his life and in 1860 went to the Omaha Indian INIission, being sent
there as a teacher by the Presbyterian Board of IMissions. He con-
tinued in that work until 1867, when he established his home upon a
farm in Nemaha county, Nebraska. About 1871, however, he re-
turned to the Omaha Reservation, where he remained as a teacher in
the employ of the government until the sj^ring of 1879, when he
removed to Bloomington, Franklin county, Nebraska, and there lived
retired. In 1905 he came to Hastings, where he passed away at the
advanced age of eighty-four years. In early life he had been superin-
tendent of schools in Butler county, Pennsylvania. His entire career
was characterized by useful service for the benefit of others and his
influence was of no restricted order. His wife was a native of Butler
county, Pennsylvania, where she was reared and educated, and she
too has passed away. They were long consistent members of the
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 7
Presbyterian church and their Christian lives constituted a potent
influence and example for good wherever they were known. They
had three children: W. SteAvart, who died in 1873; James P. A.; and
one Avho died in infancy while the family were making the trip to the
west.
Mr. Black was about five and a half years of age when the family
left Pennsylvania and started for the west. His youth being largely
jDassed amid the Indian tribe of the Omaha Reservation, he picked up
the language of the red men with a readiness with which a child always
masters a foreign tongue, and he used the Indian language so largely
that for some time after leaving the reservation he did not speak real
plain, pure English. He went to school with the Indians until thir-
teen years of age, at which time the family removed to Nemaha
county, after which the father instructed JNIr. Black and his brother
on the farm. In the spring of 1870 he removed to Peru, Nebraska,
Avhere Mr. Black entered the State Normal School, there remaining
until his graduation with the class of 1876. His course, however, was
not continuous, for during that period he taught in the district schools
for three years and with the money thus earned paid his own way
through normal. Determining upon the practice of law as a life
work, he began studying with the Arm of Cobb, ]\Iarquette & INIoore,
of Lincoln, Nebraska, and in the spring of 1877 was admitted to the
bar, after which he went to Bloomington, where he entered upon active
practice, there remaining until the fall of 1904. He also extended his
efforts into other fields, for in 1882 he established the Franklin County
Bank at Bloomington, a private banldng institution, which he con-
ducted in connection with a partner. About 1889 this was converted
into a state bank with ]Mr. Black as president and thus he continued
until 1904, when he sold his interest and removed to Hastings. Here
he purchased stock in the German National Bank, was at once elected
its president and has since continued in that capacity. He has also
been attorney for the bank throughout the entire period but otherwise
does no active professional work at the present time.
In 1883 Mr. Black was married to ]Miss Kittie Ross, a native of
Butler county, Pennsylvania, where she was reared and educated.
They became the parents of a daughter, Edna, who is now the widow
of M. O. Bishop. JNIrs. Black passed away in 188.5 in the faith of the
Presbyterian church, of which she was a consistent member. In De-
cember, 1891, ]\Ir. Black wedded ]Mrs. Candace W. Tussey, a native
of Ohio, but an old resident of Adams county.
In his political views INIr. Black is a stalwart republican and under
appointment served as county treasurer of Franklin county, Nebraska,
8 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
while for two years he was county attorney. His opinions have long
carried weight in party councils and he has contributed in substantial
measure to republican successes. He studies thoroughly the questions
and issues of the day so that he is always readj^ to support his position
by intelligent argument. Mr. Black was made a JNIason in Joppa
Lodge, No. 76, A. F. & A. M., of Bloomington, and belongs to Hast-
ings Chapter, R. A. M. He has been ver}^ prominent in the order,
having served as grand orator, grand marshal, grand deacon, grand
senior warden and in 1893 as grand master of the Grand Lodge of
Nebraska. He has also taken all of the degrees of the Scottish Rite
and has been a veiy j)rominent worker and representative of the craft.
His wife is a member of the Presbyterian church and they occupy a
very enviable social position. Aside from his other interests jNIr.
Black has dealt largely in real estate and is now the owner of much
valuable property, including both town and farm lands. ^Vhen Judge
Guslin, one of the early noted jurists of Nebraska, passed away it
was his request that Jim Black take charge of the services of the
funeral, which he did. This is but one evidence of his standing among
his fellow citizens. He is always approachable, courteous and kindly
and his cordiality is unfeigned, for iie has a deep interest in his fellow-
men and is thoroughly alive to all conditions of the present and its
opportunities. He stands today strong in his honor and his good
name, strong in his ability to plan and to perform.
THOMAS KENNEDY,
Adams county OAves the greater part of its prosperity to the labors
of its energetic and progressive agriculturists, among whom Thomas
Kennedy was numbered. He acquired title to valuable farm land on
sections 4 and 5, Highland township, and for many years devoted liis
time and energies to its cultivation and improvement and in the course
of time acquired financial independence. His demise, which occurred
on the 10th of October, 1914, was sincerely mourned and his memory
is still honored by those who knew him. His birtli occurred in County
Sligo, Ireland, on the 27th of August, 1843, and his j^arents were
James and Bridget (GilHgan) Kennedy. The family was originally
Scotch but later settled in the north and west of Ireland. The father,
who was a weaver by trade, preceded his family to this country and
prepared a home for them, after Avhich they joined him. For some
time they lived in Waterloo, New York, whence they removed to
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 9
Chicago, where thej- spent ten years. The next removal was to a
farm in the vicinity of Fall River, Wisconsin, and there the father
and mother passed away. To them were born nine children, Bridget,
Thomas, James, IMichael, William, John, Catherine, Mary and INIar-
garet, the three eldest of whom were natives of Ireland, while the
others were born in America. All of the daughters are now married
and ^Michael owns the homestead.
Thomas Kennedy Avas ten years of age when he came to this coun-
try and continued his education in the public schools here. About
1877 or 1878 he came to Nebraska with Thomas Kernan and while
on the way to Hastings met JNIr. Fisher, who was also intending to
locate in this locality. Mr. Fisher established a bakery at Hastings
and met with gratifying success in his undertaking and JNIr. Kennedy
settled on three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 5, High-
land township. Subsequentl)' he bought eighty acres on section 4,
which made the total of his holdings four hundred acres, and his well
directed labors enabled him to secure a handsome financial return
from his land. He raised hogs and cattle and also grew considerable
grain. At first he raised corn and oats but later substituted wheat
for oats. After his first home was burned he erected the present resi-
dence, which is a comfortable and well designed structure, and he also
built good barns and outbuildings.
On the 19th of February, 1889, Mr. Kennedy was united in mar-
riage to jNIiss jMargaret Conroy, a daughter of Stephen and Catherine
(Wright) Conroy, both natives of Ireland. IMrs. Kennedy was born
in County Galway on the 19th of August, 1864, and was one of a
family of seven children to emigrate to this country, the others being
John, jNIark, James, INIary, Annie and Katherine. To Mv. and INIrs.
Kennedy were born six children, one of whom died in infancy. The
others are JNIary, James, Thomas, Katherine and William, all of whom
are residing on the homestead.
JNIr. Kennedy was one of the founders of St. Patrick's Catliolic
church in Highland township and helped to defray the expense of
erecting the house of worship. His wife is also a communicant of that
church and takes a commendable interest in the advancement of
its work. He gave his political allegiance to the democratic party
and could be depended upon to fulfill his duties as a citizen although
he never took a prominent part in politics. His time was taken up
with the work of developing his farm and the care and labor which he
bestowed upon it were well rewarded. His land was kept in a high
state of cultivation and he seldom failed to harvest good crops, while
his stock raising interests also proved profitable. When he removed
10 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
to his place it was still wild prairie and he broke the sod with oxen —
a tedious and arduous task. The success which he gained Avas well
deserved, for it was the direct reward of his enterprise, industry and
good judgment, and he was justly accounted one of the leading resi-
dents of his township.
W. T. CARSON, M.D.
Dr. W. T. Carson, who follows the most improved scientific
methods in the practice of medicine and surgerj^ is one of the more
recent arrivals in Hastings, having taken up his abode here in October,
1915, but he is not unknown in the county, for he had j^reviously
practiced with success at Holstein. He was born in Moline, Illinois,
July 24, 1867, a son of Peter N. and Ida (Gurius) Carson, both of
whom were natives of Germany but in early life came to the United
States. They were married in JMoline, Illinois, and removed to La
Crosse, Wisconsin, where W. T. Carson attended the public schools
until twelve years of age. The family then went to Denver, Colo-
rado, where they lived for one year. They removed to Hastings,
Nebraska, in 1881, and the first set of abstract books for Adams
county was made by INIr. Carson. For some time he was deputy
county clerk and was very able in the discharge of his duties. W. T.
Carson remained in Denver until 1885, when he came to Hastings
and spent one year as a student in Hastings College. He afterward
attended the State University of Iowa, there pursuing his medical
course, which he completed by graduation with the class of 1889.
He then located for practice in Holstein, where he remained for
twenty-six years, or until October, 1915, when he returned to Hast-
ings and opened an office. He is wideh^ recognized as an able
physician and his ability has brought to him a liberal and growing
practice.
In early manhood Dr. Carson was imited in marriage to JNIiss
Jennie E. Larsen, a daughter of C. P. Larsen. They have two
children, Leona and William, both of whom are attending school.
Fraternally Dr. Carson is connected with the INIodern Woodmen of
America and filled nearly all of the offices in the camp at Holstein,
of which he was a charter member. He is identified with the Eagles
at Hastings and the Sons of Herman. He belongs to the Lutheran
church and in his political views is a republican, being recognized
as one of the active leaders in the local ranks of the party. He served
■s^.m^v
""f i)
DR. \V. T. CARSdX
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 13
as chairman of the town board when in Holstein and as mayor of the
city and was a member of the school board there and also treasurer
of the school district. His attention, however, has chiefly been con-
centrated along the line of his profession. He is not only a graduate
physician but also a registered pharmacist and likewise a graduate
of the Jacksonian Optical College. These add to his efficiency in
the treatment of patients and at all times he keejis in touch with the
trend of modern thought and progress. He belongs to the Adams
County, Nebraska State, and American ]\Iedical Associations, is also
a member of the American Association for the Advancement of
Science and has taken several post-graduate courses and also attended
clinics in Germany, specializing in the diseases of women and chil-
dren. He reads broadly, thinks deeply and the result of his investi-
gations is manifest in his growing ability in his practice.
TRUMAN S. PHILLIPS.
Truman S. Phillips was an efficient and up-to-date farmer and
his well directed labors yielded him a gratifying financial return. He
was also recognized as a public-spirited citizen and in his earlj^ man-
hood gave indisputable proof of his patriotism by enlisting for service
in the Union army in the Civil war. A native of the state of New
York, his birth occurred on the 3d of June, 1838, and his parents were
Asa and Sarah Ann Phillips. They removed to the vicinity of St.
Catharines, Canada, when our subject was but a child and there the
mother passed awaj' in 1843. The father continued to reside there
until 1858, when he returned to the United States. His last days
were spent in California, where his demise occurred in 1894.
Truman S. Phillips received a public school education and during
his boyhood and youth also became familiar with the best methods nf
agricultural work. In 1858 he removed to Grundy county, Illinois,
and engaged in farming rented land there until September, 1862.
when he joined Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-seventh Illi-
nois ^^olunteer Infantry. He remained at the front with his com-
mand until 1865, and took part in over one liundred battles and
marched over three thousand miles. His regiment was one of four
mentioned in general orders for marching and good discipline. The
greater part of ]Mr. Phillips' service was in the sotith and he i^ar-
tici])ated in the Tallahatchie campaign and the Vicksburg Expedition
under General Sherman, in the battle of Chickasaw Bayou and the
14 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
battle of Ai'kansas Post, in which his regmient was the first to break
through the enemy's lines and plant their colors, in the Grand Gulf
camjiaign, the battle of Champion's Hill, in a number of engagements
around Vicksburg, in the battles of Jackson and Chattanooga, in the
Atlanta and the Savannah campaigns and the battles of Fa3'etteville
and Bentonville. On the 3d of August, 1864, JNIr. Phillips was
wounded in the leg bj^ a minie ball and his widow still has the bullet
in her possession. She also has a sword which he captmed from a
rebel and many other relics of his military exijerience. After par-
ticipating in the Grand Review and receiving his honorable discharge
from the army Mr. Phillips Avent to Gardner, Illinois, where he en-
gaged in farming and blacksmithing until 1897. In that year he came
to Kenesaw townshij), Adams county, and purchased two hundred and
forty acres, on which he made his home until his demise on the 9th
of July, 1903. He was a man of great energy and spared no pains in
bringing his farm to a high state of development and in keeping
everything about the place in the best possible condition. He did
general farming and received a gratifying income from his land.
On the 13th of October, 1868, occurred the marriage of jNIr. Phil-
lips and JNIiss Jane E. Harpham, of Gardner, Illinois, who was born
in Spaulding, England, on the 13th of December, 1850. Her parents,
Samuel and Sarah Harpham, were both natives of England and her
father served for seven years in the English army. In 18.50 he re-
moved with his family to the United States and located in IMichigan,
where he resided for nineteen years, after which he took up his resi-
dence in the vicinity of Gardner, Illinois. In 1861 he went to the
defense of his adojited country, enlisting in Company B, Fifty-third
Illinois Infantry. He took part in the engagements at Savannah,
Shiloh, Corinth, Jackson and Vicksburg and in the Yoena Exi^edition.
Following the expiration of their first term of enlistment his entire
regiment reenlisted and fought in the Atlanta campaign and in the
Carolina campaign in the pursuit of General Hood. They took part
in tlie Grand RevieAv at Washington and were mustered out on the
22d of July, 1865, at Chicago. ]Mr. Harpham made a record of
which he had every right to be proud, never faltering in the perform-
ance of any duty no matter how arduous or dangerous. He not only
took part in many engagements but also made an unusual number of
long marches, covering in all seven thousand twenty-three miles.
After the period of hostilities he returned to the pursuits of civil life
and for some time farmed in the vicinity of Gardner, Illinois, where
he later conducted a butcher shop. He passed away in 1901 and his
wife died in 1895.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 15
INIr. and Mrs. Phillips became the parents of eight children:
Edward L., a resident of Forest City, Iowa; Anna, the wife of S.
Allison, of Lincoln, Nebraska; Asa, who is living in Kenesaw; Nor-
man, deceased; Betsy, the wife of C. Erickson, who resides near
Prosser; Cornelia, deceased; Ella, who married M. Rogers, of Los
Angeles, California; and Daniel, at home.
JMr. Phillips was a stalwart adherent of the republican party
which vij)held the Union in the darkest days of its history. His re-
ligious faith was that of the Presbyterian church and he held mem-
l)ership in the Grand Army of the Republic while living in Illinois.
His life was a busy and useful one and in carrying on his agricultural
operations he contributed to the development of his locality as well as
gained financial independence for liimself. His personality was such
that he gained the warm regard of those A\'ith whom he was brought
in close contact and his friends still honor his memory.
E. WEEKS.
E. Weeks is one of the prominent agriculturists of Adams county.
He lives in the vicinity of Juniata, where he owns an entire section
of land, ujjon which he has four sets of buildings and other substantial
improvements. He likewise has other farm property in the county
and elsewhere in the state and his jiossessions are the visible evidence
of an active and well spent life, his course ever being marked by inde-
fatigable energj^ intelligently directed. He was born in Stafford-
shire, England, February 8, 1854, a son of Thomas and Rebecca
Weeks, who in the year 1861 came to the United States, settling at
Kewanee, Illinois. There the mother passed away, after which the
father removed to Fountain Green, Utah, wliere his death occurred in
the year 1905. His entire life was devoted to coal mining. To his
first marriage there were born seven children : Hannah and Thomas,
both deceased; E., of this review; JNIrs. Rachel "Whitehouse, of Hall
county, Nebraska; H. W., living in Kewanee, Ilhnois; Israel, de-
ceased; and jNIartha, whose home is in Chicago, Illinois. After losing
his first wife the father married Betty Bates, a native of England,
and their children are ]Mrs. Tillie CoUard, a resident of Fountain
Green, Utah; and INIrs. INIary A. Ostler.
E. Weeks was a little lad of but seven years when brought by his
parents to the new world. He is a self-made man in the truest and
best sense of the term. He attended the common schools but his edu-
16 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
cational privileges were extremely limited, for when but nine years
of age he began working in the mines and was thus employed at dig-
ging coal until he reached the age of twenty-six years. He then
removed to Union county, Iowa, and for eight years engaged in farm-
ing a mile north of Creston, after which he came to Nebraska, settling
in Verona toAvnship near the Bigelow schoolhouse. He took up his
abode there in 1888 and continued to engage in farming upon that
tract of land until 1891, Avhen he removed to his present place near
Juniata. To his farm he has added all modern improvements, making
it one of the valuable proj)erties of the county. It is equijiped Avith
all the accessories and conveniences of the model farm of the twentieth
century and is a most attractive and well kept place. On this tract
are four sets of buildings, and he also has eighty acres on section 18
in Denver township. He holds title to six hundred and forty acres in
Adams county, a half section in Perkins comity, Nebraska, and land
at Lakeview, Oregon.
In 1880, at Kewanee, Illinois, jNIr. AVeeks was united in marriage
to ]Miss Hannah Coats, by whom he has four children, namely: Ina,
the wife of Charles Cooper, who lives near the home of his father-in-
law ; Elbert, a resident of Verona township, this county ; Vada, who is
the wife of ^Miller Kindig and resides near Juniata; and John L.,
living on the home place.
]Mr. Weeks formerly gave his political allegiance to the republican
party but is now supjjorting President Wilson. He holds to progres-
sive ideas on political questions and stands for all that is best in
citizenship. He attends the ]Methodist Episcopal church and is a
member of the ]Modern Woodmen camp at Juniata, in which he has
held all of the offices. He was one of the organizers of the Farmers
Elevator Company of Juniata and is a most progressive citizen, wide-
awake, alert and enterj^rising, carefully directing his business efforts
and winning success through persistent energy, determination and
honorable dealing.
JOHN M. TEELING.
John ]M. Teeling is proprietor of the Clarke Hotel, which is not
only the leading hostelry of Hastings, but also one of the finest in
the state, and ranks as one of the finest hotels between Chicago and
Denver. It is conducted according to the most modern ideas of hotel
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 17
management, being under the control of a most progressive, enter-
prising business man.
Mr. Teeling was born at Waukon, Iowa, August 15, 1877. His
father, James Teeling, was a native of County Clare, Ireland, and
there married Anna JNIartin, after which they came to the United
States, in 1872, establishing their home upon a farm near Lansing,
Iowa, where their remaining days were passed. The father died in
1878 and the mother passed away later in the same year, leaving
John M. Teeling an orphan during his early infancy.
The boy was reared by Mr. and Mrs. James Sweeney, of Alla-
makee county, Iowa, who had been neighbors of his parents, and he
there attended the country schools until he reached the age of four-
teen years. In 1898 he went to Milwaukee, where he entered upon
his career as a hotel man, becoming night clerk in the Schlitz Hotel,
then the leading hostelry of that city. He was connected therewith
for a year and a half, after which he went to Merrill, Wisconsin,
where he became night clerk in the new Lincoln Hotel. Three
months later he was made day clerk and seven months afterward
became manager of the hotel, which he conducted until June, 1911.
At that date he went to Rapid City as manager of the Harney Hotel,
there remaining for six months, when he was transferred by the ]\Iid-
West Hotel Comj^any to the Widman Hotel at ]Mitchell, South
Dakota, where he remained for six months. On the expiration of
that period he leased the new Lincoln Hotel at Watertown, South
Dakota, furnished it and conducted it for a year, after which he dis-
posed of his lease. He then came to Hastings, Nebraska, and in Feb-
ruary, 1914, rented the Clarke Hotel, which is one of the finest hotels
of the middle west, being scarcely equalled between Chicago and
Denver. It contains one hundred and twenty rooms, sixty with bath,
and has every modern convenience and equipment. The interior fin-
ishing is artistic and attractive and the most careful attention has been
paid to sanitation, ventilation, lighting, heating and, in fact, every-
thing that will contribute to the comfort of the guest. The cuisine
is unexcelled and the most courteous attention is demanded of all
employes.
On the 17th of February, 1901, at IMerrill, Wisconsin, Mr. Teeling
was united in marriage to ]\Iiss Mollie Phielman. ]\Irs. Teeling died
April 20, 1910, and Mr. Teeling was married August 1.5, 1911, to
Mrs. Amanda Kyes, of Merrill, Wisconsin. He is a Catholic in
religious faith and she is a Lutheran. Fraternally he belongs to the
Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. His political indorsement is
given to the democratic party, and while living at IMerrill, Wisconsin,
18 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
he served for two years as city alderman. He is now serving on the
staff of Governor INIorehead with the rank of colonel. His activities
in the hotel field have made him widely known. He has an extensive
acquaintance throughout the country and is a poj^ular host, geniality
and affability winning him friends, while his s^Dlendid business quali-
fications command for him the respect and confidence of those with
whom he is brought in contact.
R. L. WOODS.
R. L. Woods is identified with the business interests of Prosser
as the owner and manager of an up-to-date and well patronized hard-
ware store and has gained recognition as a man of enterprise and
sound judgment. His birth occurred in Erie county, Pennsylvania,
on the 27th of November, 1864, and his parents were Albert D. and
JNIary Etta ( Coon) Woods. They were born and reared in New York
state, where their marriage occurred, but subsequently removed to
Pennsylvania, whence they came to Nebraska in 1871. They located
in Otoe county, and there the father passed away in that year. Sub-
sequently the mother returned to Pennsj-^lvania with her family, but
still later removed to Portland, Oregon, where she died in 1914. The
father followed the occupation of farming and stock dealing, and as
he was industrious and understood the business thoroughly he met
with a gratifying measure of success. There were five children in the
family, namely: O. S., who is living at Pauline, this state; R. L.;
Leland, deceased; Clarence A., who resides southwest of Blue Hill,
in Webster county, Nebraska; and Susie B., the Avife of Joseph Bay-
liss, of Lincoln.
R. L. Woods received a good common school education and
remained with his mother until he reached the age of thirteen years,
when he returned to Otoe county, Nebraska. After he attained his
majority he engaged in farming in that county for some time, but in
1890 went to Milford, Seward county, where he worked for the
Adams Express Company for three years. At the end of that time
he located near Pauline, Adams county, and for nine years concen-
trated his energies upon agricultural pursuits. At the end of that
time he decided that he would prefer to devote his life to other busi-
ness pursuits, and accordingly purchased a hardware store at Pauline
from Glasier & Son. After conducting that business for some time
he came to Prosser in 1912 and purchased a hardware business here.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 19
which he has since owned and managed. He carries a large stock of
shelf hardware, paints and oils, and the high quality of his goods,
combined with his reasonable prices and fair dealing, has commended
him to the support of the public.
Mr. Woods was married in Sej)tember, 1907, to Miss Reka Rode-
macher, by whom he has two sons: Dexter D., who is six years of
age; and Chester H., who is three years old.
IVIr. Woods supports the republican party, as he believes in its
principles, and he is now serving in the office of township clerk. He
belongs to the JNIasonic blue lodge at Blue Hill, the consistory at
Hastings and the Shrine at Lincoln, and exemplifies in his life the
beneficent teachings of that order. He attends the jNIethodist Epis-
copal church and contributes to its support. The representative and
lucrative patronage which he has gained is due entirely to his business
ability and integrity, and he is recognized as one of the men who are
contributing to the commercial growth of Prosser.
E. P. HUBBARD.
E. P. Hubbard, manager for the Juniata Grain & Live Stock
Association and actively and prominently connected with other busi-
ness enterprises which are factors in the material development and
progress of his village and county, was born at IMarseilles, in La Salle
county, Illinois, December 27, 1862, his parents being Porter and
Emily (Godfrey) Hubbard, Avho were natives of Wisconsin. The
mother died when her son, E. P., was but six years of age and he was
left an orphan by his father's death when a little lad of nine years.
He was the second in a family of three children, his elder brother
being Levi, now a resident of El Paso, Texas, while his younger
brother is C. S. Hubbard, of Grafton, Nebraska.
At the time of his father's death E. P. Hubbard went to live with
S. B. Spicer, remaining upon his farm until he had attained his major-
ity, when the opportunities of the developing west attracted him and
he made his way to Nebraska. Here he entered the employ of J. H.
Spicer, who was living five miles south of Juniata and with whom he
remained for one year. He afterward turned his attention to farm-
ing, which he followed for a year, and still later he removed to Colo-
rado, where he secured a preemption claim, complying with the law
that ultimately brought him the title to the property. He then
returned to Adams county, where he engaged in general farming until
20 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
1897, when he became connected with the Juniata Grain & Live Stock
Association, of which he has since been the manager. This company
ojjerates two elevators at Juniata and is conducting a growing and
profitable business. The ofiicers of the company are : T. C. Signor,
president; J. F. Gangwish, vice president; W. S. Lamereux, secre-
tary; and E. P. Hubbard, treasurer and manager. These gentlemen
constitute the board of directors, together with T. A. Trausch, T. G.
Whiting, E. D. Pratt and G. W. Long. The business was organized
in 1897, at which time the company purchased an elevator, and in the
intervening period they have built two others. Under the manage-
ment and control of Mr. Hubbard the business is steadily growing
and developing and has become ah important industry of the county.
In 1891 ]\lr. Hubbard was married to IMiss Hattie L. Harris and
they have become the j)arents of three children: Elizabeth, the wife
of C. J. Willtrout, of Juniata ; Agnes, who is teaching the comfner-
cial course in the Franklin Academy at Franklin, Nebraska; and
EdAvin, deceased. They now have an adopted son, Paul.
In politics Mr. Hubbard is an earnest democrat and is recognized
as one of the active partj' workers in Adams county. He served as
a member of the legislature in the year 1913, has been mayor of
Juniata and is now serving as school director. He belongs to the
Odd Fellows lodge at Juniata, in which he has passed through all the
chairs, and he likewise holds membership in the JNIodern Woodmen
camj) there. His sterling worth is recognized by all, for he is loyal
to dut}', faithful to every trust reposed in him, and thoroughly reliable
and straightforward in his business connections.
JOHN C. STEVENS.
John C. Stevens, deceased, was one of the prominent members of
the Adams county bar, displaying marked skill and ability especially
in the field of criminal law. He was born in New Jersey on the 8th
of September, 1863, a son of Thomas and Mary (Devereaux)
Stevens, who in the year 1883 came to Nebraska and settled upon a
farm south of Hastings. Thej^ afterward removed to the city but
both have now passed away.
John C. Stevens was one of a family of eight children and after
attending the public schools he supplemented his course of study by
private reading. Entering upon preparation for the bar, he was
admitted to jiractice in Hastings in 1889 and was with the firm of
JOIW C. STEVENS
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 23
McCreary, Cajsps & Stevens in active practice for a long period. No
dreary novitiate awaited him. He came to the front ahnost imme-
diately as a member of the bar, being strong and forceful in argvmient,
clear in his reasoning and logical in his deductions. He was partic-
ularly successful as a jury lawyer and many a man accused of crime
has felt that his destinies were safe in the hands of Mr. Stevens, who
had the rejiutation of securing more acquittals than perhaps any other
practitioner at the Adams county bar. He always prepared his cases
with thoroughness and care and was felicitous and clear in argument.
On the 4th of February, 1890, Mr. Stevens was joined in wedlock
to JNliss Marj^ Ann Rooney, a daughter of James and Bridget Rooney,
who were born in Ireland but came to America in 1884. To Mr. and
IMrs. Stevens were born two children : Anna JNIarie, who died at the
age of nineteen years; and Philomena, at home. The religious faith
of the familj' is that of the Catholic church, to which ]Mr. Stevens
belonged, and he was also a member of the local organization of the
Knights of Columbus. In politics he Avas a democrat, and while he
never sought nor desired public office, he was frequentlj" heard on the
rostrum in defense of the principles in which he believed and his elo-
quence and strong arguments seldom failed to carry conviction. He
was very prominent in both state and national politics and was hon-
ored by being made chairman of the national committee of the dem-
ocratic party. Aside from his practice he had business interests as a
stockholder in the Clarke Hotel and by reason of his carefully con-
ducted financial affairs he was able to leave his family in comfortable
circumstances when on the 23d of January, 1914, he passed away.
He left behind him many friends, for he was cordial and genial in
manner and his sterling traits of character won him high esteem.
SYDNEY HARRIS.
Sydney Harris, who owns three hundred and twenty acres of good
land in Verona township, is living retired in a beautiful home at
No. 620 West Eleventh street, Hastings, Nebraska. He came to
this county when it was still but sparsely settled and is entitled to
credit as one of the pioneers who aided in its development from a
frontier district to the prosperous agricultural section that it is today.
A native of England, he was born in Trowbridge on the 22d of Feb-
ruarj^ 1840, of the marriage of James and Eliza (Webb) Harris.
24 • PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
The father engaged in the practice of law at Trowbridge and also
held the office of register of births and deaths.
Sj'dney Harris received his education in his native town and
resided there until 1873, when with his family he emigrated to the
United States, locating in Juniata, Adams county, Nebraska, in ]\Iay.
Not long after his arrival in this county he took up a homestead in
Verona township, on which he resided for a number of years, although
he subsequently removed to another farm which he purchased and
on which he lived until he retired from active life and came to Hast-
ings. He still owns the southeast quarter of section 10, range 8,
township 11, and the southwest quarter of section 11. His land is in
a high state of development and yields him a good financial return.
When he passed through Hastings in 1873 there was only the railway
station, the jjostoffice and two or three little one story shacks, and as
the years have passed he has watched with interest the growth of the
little village into a prosperous and up-to-date city. Sixteen years
ago ]\Ir. Harris lost the sight of an eye through the bursting of a gun
and ten years later his daughter Florence, who is a graduate nurse,
removed from the eyebrow a steel sliver similar to a needle point
M'hich had penetrated the skull. A number of years after the first
accident ]Mr. Harris was struck by a barn door on the other side of
his face and this resulted in his losing the sight of the left eye for nine
months. He was totally blind during that period and because of
other injuries sustained had to be propped up in bed and fed with a
spoon. He has since recovered and has regained the sight of the
left eye, although that of the right is irretrievably lost.
]Mr. Harris was married in Trowbridge, England, to Alice ]Maud
Williams Frawley, a daughter of John Guy and ]Mary (Williams)
Frawley, the former a contractor and builder. ISlrs. Harris Avas born
in Trowbridge on the 31st of December, 1846, and passed away in
Hastings, Nebraska, on the 23d of December, 1915. To Mr. and
JNIrs. Harris were born ten children, as follows: Wilfred Henry
Sydney Frawley, whose birth occurred on the 24th of October, 1867,
is residing in Hastings. Maud Evelyn JNlary, born on the 17th of
January, 1869, is the wife of William Carries, a minister stationed at
Fall City, Nebraska. Frank Reginald Guj^ born on the 3d of April,
1871, is farming the homestead in Verona township. INIay Alice,
whose birth occurred on the 24th of February, 1873, is residing at home
and is a practical nurse by occupation. Arthur Dudley, whose birth
occurred on the loth of O'ctober, 1875, is an expert accountant of
Lincoln, Nebraska. He married INIiss Bertha Shoals. Herbert
Stanley, born on the 18th of INIay, 1878, is now principal of schools
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 25
at Adams, this state. Florence Emeline, who was born on the 18th
of December, 1880, is a graduate nurse and is residing at home. Edith
Elsie, who was born on the 5th of ]March, 1883, is the wife of Ray-
mond Bailey, of Concordia, Kansas. An infant unnamed died in
1885 when six weeks old. Eva JMaria, whose birth occurred on the
6th of July, 1887, is keeping house for her brother Frank on the home
farm.
JNIr. Harris is independent in politics and has never been an office
seeker. He is not identified with any fraternal order, preferring to
spend his leisure time with his family. Although he does not hold
membership in any church, he is a consistent Christian and his faith
is attested by the uprightness of his daily life and his consideration
for the rights of others. He has a wide acquaintance not only in
Hastings but throughout the county, and his personal friends are
many.
DANIEL N. BITNER.
Daniel N. Bitner, who is successfully engaged in farming in
West Blue township, was born in Center count}% Pennsylvania, on
the 13th of November, 1860, a son of Jacob and Catherine Bitner,
who was born in that county and there engaged in farming until his
demise in 1880. Our subject was educated in the common schools.
On attaining his majority he left home and was employed in a store
in Schuylkill county, Pennsylvania, for one year. He then removed
to Stephenson county, Illinois, where he remained for two years, but
in 1884 he came to Adams county, Nebraska, and for a few months
A\orked as a farm hand in the southern part of the county. He then
rented a farm in Ayr township for six years, after which he went to
Avestern Kansas and proved up on two claims of a quarter section
each. He remained there for five years and then returned to this
county and for six j^ears operated a rented farm in Silver Lake towai-
ship. For two j^ears he rented land in Zero township, but since 1903
has operated the William Brock farm of three hundred and twenty
acres on section 36, West Blue township. The farm is seven miles
northeast of Hastings, is not only in an excellent location but is also
one of the well improved and productive places of the township.
Mr. Bitner is an up-to-date and energetic farmer and as the years
have passed his resources have increased so that he is now financially
independent.
26 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Mr. Bitner was married on the 24th of December, 1885, to Miss
Catherine Snyder, a daughter of Christian Snyder, who passed away
in Ilhnois. His widow removed to Roseland township, this coimty,
in 1884. Mr. and ]\Irs. Bitner are the jDarents of six children.
Matilda Blanch, who was born in 1886, married William Banta, a
merchant of Trumbull. Chris U., born in 1888, is now superintend-
ent of schools at Elm Creek. He married Anita Joynt, a daughter
of W. E. Joynt, formerly of Roseland township and later of St. Paul,
Nebraska. Jacob R., who was born in 1890, is now attending Hast-
ings College. Nevin, born in 1892, is also a student at Hastings
College. William, whose birth occurred in 1895, is at home, and Maiy
Catherine, born in 1900, is attending the Trumbull schools.
]Mr. Bitner is an adlierent of the republican party and for the
past three terms has been a member of the county board of super-
visors. In former years he served on the school board as township
clerk and as road overseer, and in all of his official capacities he has
proved capable and public-sjnrited, making an excellent record. He
holds membership in the JNIethodist Episcopal church at Trumbull
and takes a praiseworthy interest in the work of that organization.
His life has been one of well directed activity and the prosperity which
he now enjo3's is well deserved.
GEORGE H. PRATT.
George H. Pratt is a retired merchant, banker and capitalist of
Hastings whose identification with the development and upbuilding
of the city dates from earliest days. In fact, he and his partner,
Charles K. Lawson, erected the second store building in Hastings
and were the owners of one-eighth of the town site. Their business
block Avas erected before the city was platted and from that period
to the jH-esent INIr. Pratt has borne an active and helpful part in all
that has pertained to the city's development and converted it from a
tiny hamlet into a metropolis of twelve thousand population.
He was born in Lewis county, New York, December 7, 1849, and
in 1859 accompanied his parents on their removal to Oneida, Knox
county, Illinois, where he was educated in the public schools. At the
age of thirteen years he began clerking in his father's drug store, in
which he spent three or four years, and when he A\'as about seventeen
years of age a friend opened a dry goods and clothing store in Mr.
Pratt's name and he took charge as manager, continuing active in that
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 27
business until, in connection with C. K. Lawson, he purchased the
store, for which they agreed to pay six thousand dollars, although their
combined capital at that time amounted to but three hundred dollars.
Thej'- were both ambitious, energetic young men, however, and they
recognized the fact that success is won through earnest, persistent
effort, close application and honorable dealing. They continued the
business at that point until 1872, but early in that year INIr. Lawson
came to Nebraska to look for a favorable location and decided upon
Hastings. ]Mr. Pratt then disposed of their store in Illinois and
joined ]Mr. Lawson at this point. They had only one predecessor in
a business way and he was conducting his trade in a little pioneer shack.
The partners, however, erected a two-story business block, occupj^ing
the lower floor with a stock of groceries, hardware, stoves, implements
and other commodities needed by the pioneer, while the upper story
was used as their home and was shared by their clerk as well. The
partners bent their energies to the development of their trade, which
grew with the growth of the countj^ their patronage coming to them
from a very broad territory. In fact, it was not long before they
were conducting a very extensive business and their large patronage
made their enterprise a profitable one. TJie relation between them
was maintained until 1876, when the partnership was dissolved.
]\Ir. Pratt afterward became connected in business with Mr.
Hamot for a few months, at the end of which time he sold out. In
1877, in connection with A. L. Clarke, he jjurchased the Adams County
Bank from J. S. INIcIntyre. This is now the First National Bank.
JNIr. Pratt entered that institution as cashier and so continued for a
quarter of a century, or until January, 1902, when he sold a part of his
stock and retired from active connection with the bank, although he
is still one of its directors. He has since devoted his time to the super-
vision of his land and other investments. He is the owner of large
tracts of land in Nebraska, Colorado and Idaho, having jjlaced his
money in the safest of all investments — real estate. On the 2d of
January, 1879, INIr. Pratt was married to INIiss Harriet E. Wikoff, a
native of Knox county, Illinois, where she was reared and educated.
They have become the parents of four children: Homer and Ger-
trude, both of whom died when twelve years of age ; Katherine, who
died when but ten months old ; and Howard G., now attending Hast-
ings College.
In his political views Mr. Pratt is a liberal republican and has never
sought public office, preferring that his public duties be done as a pri-
vate citizen. He belongs to Hastings Lodge, No. 50, A. F. & A. M.,
also to the chapter and commandery, and has been treasurer of the
28 PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
JMasonic Temple Craft for the past twenty-eight years. He and his
wife are niemhers of the Presbyterian church, to the teachings of which
they loyally adhere, and their influence has been a potent element in
the moral progress of the community. No history of Adams county
would be complete without extended reference to George H. Pratt,
so closely and actively has he been identified with business interests and
with the general develojiment and progress of the community. In
working for the public good he has looked beyond the exigencies of the
moment to the opportunities of the future and in the conduct of his
private business interests he has closely adhered to those principles
and lines of activity which lead to honorable success. His worth is
widely acknowledged, his courage and industry have never failed and
his course has demonstrated the truth of the saying that success is not
the result of genius but is the outcome of clear judgment and experi-
ence.
WALTER EDWARD NOWERS, M. D.
Dr. Walter Edward Nowers, one of the progressive and capable
young physicians of Adams county, has practiced in Kenesaw since
completing his hospital work and has gained a large and rei^resenta-
tive patronage. He was born in Howell, Nebraska, on the 20th of
June, 1881, a son of George and ISlary (Allen) Nowers. The father
was born in England in 1843 and died in Howell, Nebraska, in 1883.
His wife, who bore the maiden name of INIary Allen, was born in Illi-
nois in 1850 and is now living in Kenesaw.
Walter E. Nowers attended the comitry schools and subsequently
became a student in the Leigh high school, from which he was grad-
uated in 1898. During five winters he taught school in Colfax county
and devoted his summers to attending the Wayne and Fremont Nor-
mal Schools. He was also employed on the Northwestern Railroad
for one year, but in 1904 entered the Creighton JNIedical College in
Omaha, having determined upon the practice of medicine as a life
work. He was graduated with the degree of INI. D. in 1908 and
afterward served as interne in the Inglewood Hospital for a year and
a half. He then came to Kenesaw and began the independent prac-
tice of his profession. It was not long before his ability and con-
scientiousness gained recognition and as the years have passed his
practice has grown steadily.
Dr. Nowers was married on the 10th of January, 1910, to Miss
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 29
Susie Petit, of Otisville, JMichigan, by whom he has a daughter,
Grace. He is connected with a number of fraternal organizations,
belonging to Kenesaw Lodge, No. 144, A. F. & A. ]\I., in which he is
senior deacon; Kenesaw Lodge, No. 231, I. O. O. F., of which he is
vice grand ; Enterprise Lodge, No. 29, K. P., of which he is chancellor
commander; Kenesaw Lodge, No. 188, A. O. U. W., of which he is
treasurer; and Leigh Court, Tribe of Ben Hur, of Leigh, Nebraska.
His religious beliefs accord with the teachings of the Methodist church,
of which he is a member, and his political allegiance is given to the
republican party. He largely concentrates his energies upon his
professional work and has won the confidence of both the general
public and his colleagues. He is also popular personally and is con-
sidered as one of the leading citizens of Kenesaw.
GEORGE W. LOVEL.
George W. Lovel, a well known and highlj^ respected resident of
Blaine township, was born in Hendricks countj% Indiana, on the 22d
of JMarch, 1844. His parents, George and Lydia (JNIontgomery)
Lovel, were both born in Virginia and both died during the childhood
of their son George W., the mother passing away in 1852 and the
father in 1856. To them were born two children, but William Lovel,
the brother of our subject, passed away in 1865.
George W. Lovel received a good education, attending school
until he enlisted in September, 1861, at the age of seventeen years,
in Company H, Seventh Indiana Infantry, for service in defense of
the Union. He was at the front for three years and was under the
command of Generals Grant, Burnside, Hooker and Warren. At the
battle of Welden Railroad he was captured and for six months was
held in prison at Belle island and Salisbury, North Carolina. After
the close of the war he returned home and worked at odd jobs in
Indiana until 1878, in which year he removed to Kingman county,
Kansas. He devoted about thii'teen years to farming there, but in
1890 went to the vicinity of Enid, Garfield covmty, Oklahoma, whence
he later removed to Woods county, that state. He cultivated rented
land there until 1905, which year witnessed his arrival in Denver
township, Adams county. He is now renting the William Dean
farm, in Blaine township, two miles south of Hastings, and his well
directed labors are rewarded by excellent crops.
In 1865 JNIr. Lovel was united in marriage to Miss Nan INIiles, a
30 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
daughter of James Miles, of Indiana. She passed away in 1877 in
Indiana and was laid to rest in that state. She left three children,
as follows: James H., who was born on the 19th of October, 1866,
in Indiana, came to Adams county, Nebraska, in 1891, and is farming
in Blaine township in partnership with his father. In 1893 he was
married to JNIiss Caroline Foster, a daughter of William and Jennie
Foster, who were early settlers of Blaine township. Both of her
parents are deceased, the father dying in 1888 and the mother in
1913. To Mr. and JMrs. James H. Lovel three children have been
born, namely: Vei'a, whose birth occurred on the 25th of August,
1899; and Ona and Alma, both deceased. Joseph E., who was born
November 8, 1868, married JNIiss Lizzie Patterson, of Kingman
county, Kansas, and they are now living in California. Emma was
born on the lith of March, 1874. JNIr. Lovel was again married in
1881, Lydia Leech, a resident of Indiana, becoming his wife. She
passed away in Garfield county, Oklahoma, and is buried in Enid.
Since the demise of his A\if e jNIr. Lovel has made his home with his son,
James H.
JNIr. Lovel is a stalwart republican, as he believes firmh^ in the prin-
ciples of that partj' and works loyally for its success at the polls. His
religious allegiance is given to the JNIethodist Episcopal church. The
gratifying measure of success which he has gained is due not to any
particular good fortune, but to his continued industry and his good
management and he is conceded to be one of the highly efficient
farmers of his township.
LELAND RAY tEARSON.
Leland Ray Pearson, who is engaged in cultivating a good farm
of two hundred acres on section 29, Highland township, is a native
son of the county and a representative of one of its well known fami-
lies. He Mas born upon the farm on which he still lives on the 30th
of October, 1885, of the marriage of Fletcher Herbert and Amiie
(Iveson) Pearson. The father was born in Lenawee county, INIichi-
gan, and his parents were David and Jane (Pickering) Pearson, who
emigrated to this country from England in 1837. To their union
were born nine children, of whom seven are still living. Fletcher Her-
bert Pearson greAv to manhood upon the home farm in INIichigan and
there learned practical methods of agriculture. In 1879 he removed
to Adams county, Nebraska, where he had previously purchased a
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 31
quarter section of railroad land on section 29, Highland township, and
for thirty years he maintained his residence upon that place, which he
brought to a high state of cultivation. He still owns the farm, but
for six years has lived retired at No. 227 East Seventh street, Hast-
ings. He was married on the 30th of September, 1879, just before
his removal to Adams county, to ]Miss Annie Iveson, of Lenawee
county, JNIichigan, a daughter of Thomas and Rudy (Kinney) Iveson,
farming peoi^le. Three children were born to JNIr. and Mrs. Pearson.
Laura, whose birth occurred on the 15th of July, 1880, is the wife of
H. R. Burnham, a farmer in West Blue township, this county, and
they have six children, Anna, Nelson, Florence, Raj^mond, Harold
and JMargery. ]\Iilo Eber, who was born December 29, 1883, is a
Congregational minister living in Hyannis, JNIassachusetts. He was
married in New Haven, Connecticut, to JNliss Nellie Crane. Leland
Ray, of this review, is the youngest of the family. Fletcher H. Pear-
son gives his religious allegiance to the JMethodist Episcopal church,
fraternally is connected with the INlystic Legion Lodge at Juniata,
and is a republican in politics. He takes a commendable interest in
public affairs, but has never sought office, although he has served
acceptably as a member of the school board.
Leland R. Pearson devoted the greater part of his time during his
boyhood and youth to the acquirement of an education and to helping
his father with the work of the homestead. He has continued to
reside on the farm and since his father retired to Hastings has had
entire charge of the operation of the one hundred and sixty acres in
the home place and of forty acres additional, which he himself pur-
chased about 1906. The two hundred acres which he farms yields
him an excellent return and he ranks among the progressive young-
agriculturists of the county. He grows wheat, corn, oats and hay
for the market and also raises stock for his own use. His work is
well planned and his industry and energy are enabling him to gain
success.
On the 22d of December, 1909, ]Mr. Pearson was united in mar-
riage to INIiss Dora Nida, a daughter of George and Isabella Nida,
of Highland township. The family came to this county from Vir-
ginia in 1893 and the father is a representative farmer of his locality.
There are three children in the family, those besides jMrs. Pearson
being: JMrs. A. R. Robinson, of Hall county, Nebraska; and Rilda,
now INIrs. L. E. Perkins, of Juniata township, this county. JSIr. and
jNIrs. Pearson have two daughters: INIildred JMarguerite, born on the
6th of INIay, 1911 ; and Virginia Irene, born January 8, 1913.
Mr. Pearson casts his ballot in support of the men and measures
32 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of the republican party, but has never sought official preferment. Both
he and his wife hold membership in the JNIethodist Episcopal church
at Hastings. They are well known throughout the county and their
many excellent qualities of character have gained them the respect
of all who have been brought into contact with them. JSIr. Pearson
is progressive in his work and takes justifiable pride in his farm,
whicli is in a high state of cultivation and is well improved with build-
ings, all of which he has erected, including the neat and comfortable
residence. He owns an automobile and finds it of value to him in his
farm work as well as a source of much pleasure.
HON. CLARENCE J. MILES.
The consensus of public opinion establishes the Hon. Clarence J.
INIiles as one of the prominent business men of Hastings, Nebraska,
where he is activelj^ engaged in the grain trade. JNIoreover, it is uni-
formly said that no man in Hastings has more friends than he. A
native of Illinois, INIr. JNIiles was born in Jersep^ille, Jersey county,
on the 25th of INIay, 1866, and is a son of George S. and JNIartha
(DeWolf) Miles. The father, a native of Westminster, JNIassa-
chusetts, was there reared and educated, pursuing an academic course.
He took up the profession of dentistry and for a time engaged in
active practice in Alton, Illinois, while later he removed to Jersey-
ville, and in the year 1889 became a resident of Beatrice, Nebraska,
where he continued to follow his j)rofession until his death, which
occurred in 1893 when he Avas sixty-two years of age. In politics he
was an active repviblican and Avas for many years chairman of the
county central committee in Illinois. Fraternally he was connected
Avith the jNIasons and Avith the Odd FelloAvs. All through his life he
manifested those sterling traits AA'hich Avon for him leadership and
Avhich gained for him the high and enduring regard of those Avith
AA horn he Avas associated. His Avife Avas born in Alton, Illinois, and
Avas reared and educated in JerseA-A'ille, also studying for a time in
Chicago. She survived her husband and died in 1909 at the age of
scA-enty-one years, passing aAvay in tlie faith of the Presbyterian
church, of Avhich she Avas a consistent member.
Clarence J. INIiles, the third in order of birth of six children, spent
his boyhood days in his natiA'e city, Avhere he attended the public and
high schools. When nineteen years of age he became assistant cashier
of the Farmers Bank in Solomon City. Kansas, having previously
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 33
had experience in banking in the capacity of bookkeeper in a bank at
Jerseyville. After leaving Kansas he went to Pasadena, Cahfornia,
accepting a position in the First National Bank of that city, but after
a short time he resigned and returned to Kansas, where he became
cashier of the Citizens Bank in the town of Liberal. At the end of
the j'ear he was transferred by the owners of that bank to Chicago to
take charge of their office in that city. They were extensively engaged
in construction work there and ]Mr. JMiles remained with them for
about a year. He was afterward with Kilpatrick Brothers & Collins,
large railway contractors at Beatrice, Nebraska, for ten years, and
in 1899 established business in Hastings as a grain and coal dealer.
At one time he owned five elevators in the state and he has conducted
an extensive grain business, his enterjjrise proving an important one
in the various communities where he has operated, as it has furnished
a market to grain raisers. He was also for several years president of
the jNIcCanaughey Grain Com^Janj^ ojjerating ten elevators in Ne-
braska, and at the same time he was operating his own chain of five
elevators. At the f)resent time he is the owner of three elevators, one
at Giltner, another at Bruning and a third at Eustis, Nebraska. He
is also owner of the electric light plant at the last named place, is
president of the Grand Island Gas Company at Grand Island, Ne-
braska, and is a director of the First National Bank of Hastings.
He is likewise a heavj' stockholder in the Beatrice Creamery and in
numerous commercial and industrial enterprises of Hastings. He is
thus connected with various corporations and along legitimate lines
of business has won substantial success, steadily working his way
upward. He possesses tireless energy, keen perception and a genius
for devising the right thing at the right time, joined to everyday com-
mon sense. His plans have been well formulated and carefully exe-
cuted and his perseverance and determination have carried him
steadily forward.
In 1884 ]Mr. ]\Iiles was married to INIiss Flori D. Cory, who was
born in Jerseyville, Illinois, where they Avere reared and educated.
They were schoolmates in youth and the friendship of childhood
ripened into love which found its consummation in marriage. Theirs
was a beautiful home life, which was terminated, however, by death
on the 18th of October, 1915, when JNIrs. INIiles passed to the home
beyond. Her many splendid traits of character, her kindliness of
spirit, her symjiathj' and her goodwill to all won her the high esteem
and love of those with whom she came in contact and her death was
the occasion of deep regret wherever she was known.
Mr. Miles is well known in Masonic circles, belonging to Hastings
U PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; to Mount Herman Commandery, and to
Sesostris Temple of the JNIystic Shrine at Lincoln. He also has
membership with the United Workmen and the Elks at Hastings
and with the United Commercial Travelers, in which organization he
has filled all the local, state and national offices. In 1905 he was
elected suj)reme councillor of the Commercial Travelers of the United
States at the convention in Columbus and so served until 1906. He is
a recognized leader in the ranks of the republican party, his opinions
carrying weight in its councils. In 1906 he ran second for the nomina-
tion for governor in the state convention and many of his friends are
urging him to again become a candidate for the position. Five times
he has been elected mayor of Hastings, twice without opposition,
serving in all for eleven years. Nearly all of the asphalt paving in
the citj' was put down between the years 1902 and 1913 during his
administration. His direction of municipal affairs was businesslike
and progressive. He opposed the useless retrenchment that hampers
progress and was equallj^ strong in his opposition to unwise expendi-
ture, and his efforts constituted a potent force toward the upbuilding
of the city and the establishment of those interests which are a matter
of civic virtue and civic pride. He is a man of fine personal appear-
ance and the physical is but the indication of the spirit within. He
is entirety free from ostentation, nor is there about him the least
shadow of mock modesty. He is a man who correctly judges life's
contacts and experiences and in everj^ relation works along the lines
of progress and improvement for the individual and for the com-
munity.
AREND R. JUNKER.
Arend R. Junker, who owns and operates an excellent farm on
section 17, Highland township, ranks among the most efficient and
jjrogressive farmers of his township and has gained a gratifying
measure of financial success. He was born in Hanover, Germanj^
on the 18th of November, 1841, a son of Roelf and Hilke (von
iSIarck) Junker, who about 1866 came to the United States and set-
tled in Adams county, Illinois. Subsequently they lived in Peters-
burg, JMenard countj% that state, and in Livingston county, and at
length removed to Adams county, Nebraska, where the father passed
away about 1892. The mother had previously died in Illinois. Our
subject has two brothers living: Harm, a resident of Illinois; and
1585318
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 35
Roelf, who is living in Dawson county, Nebraska; and has also a
sister, Lina, who is now Mrs. Cornelius Johnston and resides in
Menard county, Illinois.
Arend R. Junker came to the United States in 1866, preceding
his parents in his emigration to this country, and settled in Adams
county, Illinois, where he worked out by the month for about four-
teen years. He subsequently farmed in that state on his own account,
but in 1894 he came to Nebraska and purchased one hundred and
sixty acres of his present farm from Jake Evens. He has since
added to his holdings until his farm comprises four hundred and
eighty acres, and the excellent condition in which things are kept
testifies to his thrift and good management. He grows wheat,
corn and some oats and also raises stock for his own use, and his well
directed labors yield him a handsome income. He has enlarged the
residence, which is now modern in its aj)pointments, and has added
needed buildings to the farm equipment so that the improvements
upon his place compare favorably with those on other farms in the
locality. He is up-to-date and progressive in his work and is con-
tributing to the agricultural advancement of his township.
In 1874, in Petersburg, Illinois, Mr. Junker was united in mar-
riage to Miss Albertina Dallmann, a daughter of Chris and Maria
(Tesloch) Dallmann. Mrs. Junker was born in Germany, but was
brought to this country by her parents when but two and a half years
old. After living in Wisconsin for a time the family removed to
Illinois, and there both of her parents passed away. She has three
brothers living: Herman, who resides in Franklin county, Nebraska;
and Fred and Ernest, both residents of Petersburg, Illinois. There
are also two sisters: JNIatilda, the wife of Will Carroll, of Peters-
burg; and Amelia, who married Harm Weremeson.
]Mr. and Mrs. Junker have had eight children. Christopher
Friedrich, who was born on the 5th of November, 1874, died when
almost four years of age, on the 2d of November, 1878; Rudolph
Arend, who was born January 29, 1877, owns an eighty acre farm in
Highland township, to the cultivation of which he devotes his time.
He married INIiss Lulu JNIorgan, by whom he has a daughter, Irene,
who was born February 18, 1909. Hilke INIaria Friederike, who was
born on the 16th of ]May, 1879, married Albert INIorgan, a farmer
of Logan township, this county, by whom she has four children, Lily,
John, Tena and Albert. Herman, born December 22, 1881, is living
at home, as is his twin brother, Christian Friedrich. Each owns an
eighty acre farm in Highland township and both are progressive and
successful j'oung farmers. Tena, who was born on the 14th of Feb-
36 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
ruaiy, 1884, died at birth. Albertina Matilda, who was born on the
7th of June, 1886, married John Warrings and resides in Clara Citj%
^Minnesota. Carl Wilhelni, who was born on the 9th of January,
1889, John, born on the 14th of July, 1891, and Albert, born April 3,
1894, are all at home.
Mr. Junker and his family attend the German Lutheran church
in Verona township and give their support to its work. He casts his
ballot in sujJiJort of the republican party, but has never been an office
seeker. Neither does he belong to any lodges or societies, preferring
to spend his leisure time at home. Sound judgment and well directed
industry have enabled him to gain more than a competence, and his
sterling integrity and genuine worth of character have won him the
respect of those who have been brought in contact with him.
ARTHUR J. MILLS.
Arthur J. INIills is successfully engaged in the operation of a
splendid farm of seven hundred and twenty acres in Denver township,
and in addition to raising an immense amount of grain gives much
attention to breeding registered Percheron horses. He was born in
Grinnell, Poweshiek county, Iowa, in 1869, a son of George H. and
Hope (English) JNIills. The father was born in IMichigan, of Scotch
and German ancestry, and now makes his home with his son, Arthur J.
The mother has passed away. Two brothers and a sister of our sub-
ject reside in Adams county, namely: Leonard P., who is mentioned
elsewhere in this work; B. B.; and Mrs. W. H. Harris, whose husband
is an engineer at the State Hosj^ital, near Hastings.
Arthur J. ]\Iills was reared under the parental roof and received
his education in the common schools. For a considerable period he
assisted his father in the operation of the home farm in Hamilton
county, Nebraska, but about two decades ago came to Adams county
and rented the farm which he is now operating. The place comprises
seven hundred and twenty acres of as fine land as there is in Denver
township and is a part of the Kerr estate. Mr. Mills has erected all
of tlie buildings upon the place except the residence and keeps every-
thing in the best possible condition. He facilitates the work of culti-
vating the fields by using up-to-date machinery and methods and
seldom fails to harvest large crops. He has grown as much as twenty
thousand bushels of grain in a j^ear and has paid for shucking ten
thousand bushels of corn in a j^ear. During 1915 he only raised
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 37
seven thousand bushels of wheat on account of the rainy season, but
the hay crop totalled one hundred and sixty tons. He also is engaged
quite extensively in stock raising and makes a specialty of Percheron
horses. He has thirty-six head, and at the head of the stud is Col-
lector 60152, a fine imported stallion. He also has a few grade
Holstein cattle and is beginning to raise Hampshire hogs. He rents
the farm on which he resides, but owns one hundred and sixty acres of
land on section 15, Denver township, which he purchased from the
IMeyers estate, and likewise holds title to land outside the county and
to city lots. He has succeeded in all that he has undertaken and his
activities have been a factor in the promotion of the agricultural and
stock raising interests of his county.
In 1894 j\Ir. JNIills was united in marriage, in Doniphan, Hall
county, Nebraska, to ]\Iiss Clara Orcutt, a daughter of Lorenzo S.
and Hannah E. (Barton) Orcutt. Two children have been born to
this union, namely: Winona Hojje, who was born April 20, 1908; and
Gerald Harmon, who died when three days old.
Mr. JNIills supiJorts the prohibition party at the polls, but has been
too deeply engrossed in the management of his personal affairs to
take a very active part in politics. However, he is not remiss in any
of the duties of citizenshii^ and can be counted upon to support move-
ments seeking the advancement of his community along any worthy
line of endeavor. Fraternally he is connected with the Royal High-
landers lodge at Aurora, Nebraska. Both he and his wife belong to
the Christian church and they have done much to further its work.
At the time of the erection of the ncAV house of worship four years
ago they contributed twelve hundred and fifty dollars to the building
fund and they have always been very generous in their support of
the church.
REV. FATHER BERNARD.
Rev. Father Bernard, pastor of St. Patrick's Catholic church in
Highland township, Adams county, Nebraska, holds in full measure
the esteem of his parishioners and is highly respected by all who know
him. His birth occurred in Nebraska City in 1864, and he is a son of
Peter Ulbrick and IVIary Kalus, both natives of Austria.
Rev. Father Bernard received his education at the Benedictine
College at Atchison, Kansas, and there took the commercial, classical
and theological courses; and when twenty-four years of age, was or-
38 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
dained to the priesthood. For some time he taught in that institution,
and subsequently spent two or three years in charge of small missions
in that locality. Later, as a priest in the Lincoln diocese, he held
many different charges dm-ing a period of some twenty years, the
last being that of St. Patrick's church, in Highland township, Adams
county, and during the five years that he has held this pastorate his
influence has been felt as a factor for good in the life of his community.
St. Patrick's church was organized about twenty-five years ago, and
now nimibers about thirty-four families, or one hundred and fifty-
one souls. Before the establishment of the church, the parishionei-s
drove to Hastings, a distance of twelve miles, to attend service. The
aflPairs of St. Patrick's are in a satisfactory condition and it is doing
well its work as a spiritual and moral agency. Father Bernard is a
cultured gentleman of kind and genial disposition and these qualities,
together with his devotion to his work, have gained him a high place in
the warm regard and the sincere goodwill of all who have come into
contact with him irrespective of their religious beliefs.
BERNHARD SCHMIDT.
One of the exicellent citizens and efficient farmers of Highland
township is Bernhard Schmidt, who owns one hundred and sixty
acres of productive land on section 32. He was born in Prussia,
Germany, on the 20th of August, 1855, of the marriage of Johan
and Eva (Thimgan) Sclmiidt, who passed their entire lives in their
native land, where the father engaged in farming. To them Avere
born seven children, of whom five came to America : Adelia, who is
now Mrs. C. Miller and lives in Cass county, Nebraska; Herman,
also a resident of Cass county; Augusta, who lives in Pierce, Ne-
braska; and Theresa, who resides in Colorado.
Bernhard Schmidt received his education in Germany and re-
mained in that country until he was twenty-one years of age, when
he accompanied his brothers and sisters to this country. After living
in Cass countj% Nebraska, for two years he went to Seward county,
whence he came to Adams county in the spring of 1885. For about
four years he was engaged in carpenter work in Hastings but in the
meantime, in 1886, he purchased his present farm in Highland tOAAU-
ship, to which he removed in 1888. He has since lived there and the
excellent condition of the place testifies to his enterprise and good
management. He grows grain, wheat, oats and alfalfa and als.j
^
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PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 41
raises horses and a few hogs. His progressive spirit is indicated by
the fact that he introduced the culture of alfalfa to this county,
shipping four hundi'ed pounds of seed here from Colorado and
sowing one hundred pounds himself, while the remaining three hun-
dred was distributed equally among three other men. These four
experimental fields proved successful and at the present time alfalfa
is generally grown throughout the county. He has always sought
to keep in touch with the developments in scientific agriculture and
has at all times been ready to profit by the discoveries of investigators
although he has not been unduly hasty in discarding time-tried
methods. This combination of progressiveness with conservatism leads
to success in agriculture as in other fields and he has gained financial
independence.
At Seward, Nebraska, in 1883, Mr. Schmidt was married to Miss
Emma Thimgnen, a daughter of JNIichael and Adelia (Cirot) Thimg-
nen. The maternal grandfather of JNIrs. Schmidt was a school teacher
in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt have become the parents of ten
children. Antonia, who was born in Seward county, Nebraska, in
1885, is now the wife of John Thompson, and lives in Hastings.
Otto, born in Hastings in 1886, married Miss Mary Kennedy and is
now living in Highland township. Ernest, born in Hastings in 1887,
is farming in the emjjloy of others in this county. Harry, born upon
the home farm in 1890, married IMiss Annie Wisdom. Lena, whose
birth occurred on the 26th of January, 1892, died at the age of two
}'ears and tlu-ee months. Albert, born in 1894, JNIartha, in 1897, Jose-
phine, in 1898, Etta, in 1901, and Fred, in 1904, are all at home.
JMr. and ]Mrs. Schmidt belong to the German Evangelical church
and guide their lives by its teachings. He votes the republican ticket
but has never had time to take a very active part in politics, his farm-
ing interests demanding his undivided attention. His ability, in-
tegrity and genial sj)irit have made him popular among those who
have been associated with him and he is highly respected wherever
known.
W. H. DE SANNO.
W. H. De Sanno, as a member of the firm of W. H. De Sanno &
Son, is conducting an important business enterprise vmder the name
of the Juniata JSIilling Company, Incorporated. He was born in
Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, April 23, 1845, and is a son of
42 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
John F. and Charlotte (Gamble) De Sanno, the latter of English
descent, while the former came of Pennsylvania German ancestry.
He was born and married in the Keystone state and there the mother
passed away when their son, W. H. De Sanno, was but six years of
age. The father afterward removed to the middle west in 1853, set-
tling in Peoria, Illinois, Avhere he remained mitil 1864. In that j^ear
he became a resident of Livingston county, Illinois, where his remain-
ing days were passed, his death occurring in 1869. He was a tailor
by trade and thus provided for the support of his family, which num-
bered five children: Elizabeth, now living in ]Macomb, Illinois;
Elnora, whose home is in Pemisjdvania ; JNIarj-, a resident of Gordon,
Nebraska ; W. H., of this review ; and Amelia, deceased.
W. H. De Sanno pursued his education in the common schools of
Pennsylvania and of Illinois, and in his youthful days began farm
work, being thus employed vuitil about twenty-two years of age. He
then turned his attention to the milling business in Peoria, Illinois,
serving a full term of apprenticeship. He was connected with the
trade in that city for five j'ears, after which he went to Fairburj;^, Illi-
nois, as second miller. He spent about three years there, on the expira-
tion of Avhich period he went to Chenoa, Illinois, where he remained
for a year. He next located at Davenport, Iowa, where he engaged
in the milling business for two and one-half years, after which he spent
a year in Cleveland, Illinois, and later went to Tazewell county, engag-
ing in the milling business at Lilly. There he remained for eleven
years and during four years of that time served as postmaster of the
town.
In 1891 'Mr. De Sanno arrived at Beemer, Nebraska, where he con-
tinued in the milling business for five years. He afterward went to
Tekamah, Nebraska, where he resided for three years, and on the
expiration of that jjeriod removed to Silver Creek and leased a half
interest in a mill, spending eight months at that place. He was subse-
quently at Beemer, Nebraska, for fifteen months, after Avhich he came
to Juniata and purchased the mill here. He remodeled the mill and
installed new machinery and had everj'thing in excellent shape when
in 1907 the plant was entirely destroyed by fire in the month of August.
Immediately he began the work of rebuilding and by ISIarch of the
following year his mill was again in operation. The business is con-
ducted by the firm of W. H. De Sanno & Son, under the name of the
Juniata JNIilling Company, Incorporated. They maintain a high
standard of excellence in the manufacture of their product, for
which they find a ready sale on the market, and the business is today
recognized as one of the leading productive industries of the county.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADA3IS COUNTY 43
In 1873 Mr. De Sanno was married to Miss Mary Rice and to
them were born five children, namely : Nora, who is the wife of August
Linneman, of Forest Green, INIissouri; Harry C, who is associated
with his father in the milling business ; and Hattie, Walter and Clif-
ford, all of whom are deceased. The wife and mother passed away
in 1886, and in 1891 Mr. De Sanno was again married, his second
union being with Ella Koonce, b}^ whom he has two children : INIabel,
who is attending school in Hastings ; and Bernice, a school student at
Juniata.
In his political views ]Mr. De Sanno is a democrat and has served
as a member of the town board. He belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge
of Juniata, in which he has passed all the chairs, and he gives his
active support to various projects for the upbuilding of the com-
munity and the promotion of the public welfare. His has been an
active and well spent life and the industry and integrity which have
characterized his business career have been the crowning features of
his success.
FREDERICK A. BO\D.
Frederick A. Boyd, who is successfully engaged in farming in
Roseland township, is a native son of that township and his birth
occurred on the 13th of JNIarch, 1877. His father, Robert A. Boyd,
was born in Seneca county, Ohio, of Irish ancestry and the mother,
who bore the maiden name of Ellen Addis, was a native of New
Jersey. Robert A. Boyd accompanied his jiarents to Stark county,
Illinois, and remained there until about 1872, when he came westward
to Nebraska and took up a homestead and a tree claim on section 10,
Roseland townshij), Adams county. He at once began to cultivate
his land and as the years passed brought it to a high state of develop-
ment. He was very successful as a farmer and acquired title to almost
a whole section of land. He was prominent in his community and
served as countj^ supervisor, proving very efficient in that office. He
belonged to the Workmen and to the Grand Army of the Republic,
having served in the Civil war as a member of the Sixty-ninth Illinois
Volunteer Infantry. He passed away in 1899, but his wife is still
living and has the distinction of being the only woman in the township
who is residing upon the original family homestead. To them were
born five children, namely: Frances V.; Frederick A.; John and
Clara, both deceased; and Warren E., who is farming the home place.
U PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Frederick A. Boj'd entered the public schools at the usual time
and after completing the work of the grades became a student in the
Roseland high school and still later spent two years in Hastings Col-
lege at Hastings. He continued to reside at home until he was
twenty- four or twenty-five years of age, when he removed to his pres-
ent place which comprises one hundred and sixty acres of fine land
on section 23, Roseland township. He is well known as a breeder of
Hereford cattle. He manages his business afi^airs well and is at once
jiractical and progressive in his work as an agriculturist. His place
is kept in excellent condition and he ranks among the able and efficient
farmers and stock raisers of the county.
IMr. Boyd was married in 1901 to Miss Clara Joynt, by whom he
has five children, JNIargaret, Alice, Geraldine, Jeannette and Sadie.
He casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the repub-
lican party and has served as central committeeman, doing much to
promote the success of that partj^ in this comity. Both he and his
wife are active members of the JMethodist Episcojial church and he is
now superintendent of the Sunday school. His daily life bears witness
to the sincerity of his belief and no movement for the moral advance-
ment of his community lacks his support. Fraternally he is connected
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Juniata.
LEWIS CURRIER.
Lewis Currier is living retired in Kenesaw and is enjoying a period
of leisure made possible by his former well directed labors as an agri-
culturist. He is also a veteran of the Civil war and just as in the
days when the Union was threatened he willingly fought in its defense,
so he is now giving largely of his time and energy in carrying on a
campaign against the use of tobacco and intoxicating drinks. He
was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, on the 7th of January,
1838, a son of John and Anna (Robinson) Currier, the former born
in New Hampshire in 1810 and the latter in Pennsjdvania in 1811.
In 18.50 the family removed from Pennsylvania to Livingston county,
Illinois, and there the father passed away in 1862.
Lewis Currier received a fair education in the country schools of
Pennsylvania and Illinois and after putting aside his textbooks de-
voted his attention to farm work until he enlisted in the Union army,
joining Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Illinois Volun-
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 45
teer Infantrj^ on the 15th of August, 1862. He took part in the
battle of Peach Tree Creek, Georgia, fought in > number of skir-
mishes, was a member of the expedition which went in pursuit of Gen-
eral JNIorgan, the famous cavalry leader, and was also on guard and
garrison duty for some time. Later he was in the Blue Star division
of Sherman's armj^ went on the memorable march to the sea and took
part in the siege of Atlanta which led to the fall of that city. He was
discharged in 1865, after the close of hostilities, and marched in the
Grand Review. He then returned to Illinois and for fourteen j^ears
engaged in farming there. In 1882 he came to Verona township,
Adams county, and homesteaded one hundred and forty-one acres of
land, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devoted the
following thirteen j^ears. At the end of that time, feeling that he
had saved sufficient capital to provide for his wants throughout the
remainder of his life, he retired and took up his residence in Kenesaw,
where he is still living.
Mr. Currier was married January 22, 1867, to JNIiss Lydia L.
Pratt, who was born in JNIichigan, IMarch 9, 1842, and died in Kene-
saw on the 27th of October, 1906. To them were born four children,
of whom two are living: Frank E., a farmer of Adams county; and
Ned C, who is residing in Kenesaw.
Mr. Currier has supported the republican party since its organiza-
tion and believes firmlj' in its principles. He is a member of the
Church of God and takes an active interest in the work of that organ-
ization. For twenty years he has done all in his power to create
sentiment against the tobacco and liquor habits and although he is now
seventy-eight j^ears of age he still travels in the interests of that work.
He recognizes the value of literature in such a campaign and has had
published a small collection of poems dealing with the evils of the use
of tobacco and liquor and uses this booklet in carrj'ing on his agita-
tion against these habits. The motive power in all of his efforts to
better humanity is his sincere Christian faith, which finds expression in
the following poem from his pen. The theme of the poem is based
on Hebrews 3:1-3 and 10 :28-29 :
THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST.
The law was once
By JNIoses given.
But the sayings of Jesus
Guide us to Heaven.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Jesus is the life.
The truth, the way;
But none need be lost
If they learn to obey.
In trying to find
What David said;
We leave behind
What Jesus did.
By looking backward.
On sayings of old,
We miss the streets
Paved with gold.
Oh, then let us
While time on earth is given.
Accept the gospel of Christ
And secure a home in Heaven.
HENRY AUGUSTIN, Sr.
Henry Augustin, Sr., is one of the representative agriculturists
of Verona township and his farm on section 21 is in a high state of
development. He was born in Hanover, Germany, on the 14th of
September, 1849, a son of Claus and Engel (Tobaben) Augustin,
who were natives of that country and Avere there reared and married.
The mother passed away in Germany and the father came to the
U'nited States in 1870 and located near Red Wing, JNIinnesota, where
he resided until his demise. He followed the occupation of farming
and met with gratifying success therein. To him and his wife were
born three children: Hans, who died in INIinnesota in 1914; Henry;
and IMary, the wife of Ernst Rehder, of Red Wing.
Henry Augustin, Sr., received a good education in Germany and
prepared for the school teacher's profession, attending a normal
school. After teaching for two years he came to the United States
with his father in 1870 and secured a position in a parochial school
near Red Wing. He taught there for ten years but in the winter of
1880-1881 came to Nebraska and located on section 21, Verona town-
shij), Adams county. He has lived there ever since and has made
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 47
excellent improvements upon the place, which now comprises two
hundred and forty acres. He also owns another farm of one hun-
dred and sixty acres and a half section near Kenesaw. He engages
in general farming, finding that the raising of both grain and stock
is more profitable than specializing in either. He assisted in organiz-
ing the companj^ which conducts elevators at Prosser and Kenesaw
and is now serving as one of its directors.
In 1871 ^Ir. Augustin was united in marriage to Miss Mari
Ruhter, who passed away in December, 1915. They were the par-
ents of thirteen children, namely : Rudolph, a resident of Doniphan,
Nebraska; Henr)^ Jr., who lives near Kenesaw; Peter, also residing
near Kenesaw; JNIeta, the wife of John Sauerman, who lives three
miles south of Kenesaw ; Jacob, who resides near Hayland, Nebraska ;
George, who lives in the vicinity of Kenesaw ; Walter, of Doniphan ;
Adolph and Fred, both of whom are farming in this county; Emma,
at home; Anna, the wife of John Uden, who lives near Prosser; and
Lena and Herbert, both at home.
]\Ir. Augustin votes the democratic ticket at the polls and takes
the interest of a good citizen in everything relating to the public wel-
fare although not an aspirant for official preferment. He was
reared in the faith of the German Lutheran church, in which he still
holds membership, and his wife was also identified with that organi-
zation. When he began his business career he was without capital
but he i^ossessed good judgment and energy, and as the years have
passed his resources have increased until he is now numbered among
the substantial men of Adams county.
REV. WILLIAM McDONALD.
Rev. William ISIcDonald, pastor of St. Cecilia's Catholic church
at Hastings, was born in Ireland, ]\Iay 19, 1860, a son of Lawrence
and Elizabeth (Lewis) IMcDonald. The father was a farmer by
occupation and both he and his wife are now deceased. After pur-
suing his preliminary education in the national schools of Ireland,
William JNIcDonald pursued a classical course in the Oniversitj'
School at Waterford, Ireland, and studied philosophy and theology
in St. John's College at Waterford, having determined to jirepare
for the priesthood. He was then ordained in the cathedral at Water-
ford, June 21, 1884, by the coadjutor bishop of Dublin. He was
then assigned to the Omaha diocese, which included Nebraska and
48 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Wj^oming, although since that time a division has occurred in the
diocese. He was given charge of his first mission as assistant pastor
at Falls City, where he remained for a year, when he was appointed
to take charge of the Catholic church at Dawson, Richardson county,
where he remained for nine years. In 1894 he was appointed to Has-
tings as pastor of St. Cecilia's Catholic church and his labors have
here since continued, covering a period of twenty-two years. The
congregation numbers two hundred families. During his connection
with this parish the present fine house of worship has been erected at
fi cost of seventy-five thousand dollars. There is a parochial school
maintained under the charge of the Sisters of St. Dominic in connec-
tion with the academy. The organized bodies of the church include
an Altar Society, the League of the Sacred Heart and the Children
of Mary. The Immaculate Conception Academy was built in 1880
by the Sisters of the Visitation, but there was a period of drought in
Nebraska and the academy found itself in financial difficulties. The
building reverted to the mortgagee. After this building had stood
idle for twelve years Father JNIcDonald succeeded in raising the
money to buy it back, securing a gift of five thousand dollars from
the Commercial Club of Hastings. Six j^ears ago the Dominican
Sisters came and took charge of the academy and the work of the
school has since been in a flourishing condition.
The labors of Father INIcDonald found fruition in the erection of
the splendid house of worship which is now the property of the Catho-
lics of Hastings and is known as St. Cecilia's church. It was dedicated
on the 22d of December, 1912, on which occasion the building,
one of the finest church edifices in Nebraska, held at the dedi-
catorj'- services about one thousand people. This congregation had
its beginning as far back as 1871, when the Rev. Father Leichleitner
of Crete visited the new settlement. He continued to hold occasional
services until jNIarch 2.5, 1878, when the Rev. George Glauber was
appointed jjriest in charge. Under his leadership the fii-st church
building of St. Cecilia's ^^arish was erected on Second street. A lit-
tle later the congregation purchased a half block of ground and the
old building was afterward removed to that site and enlarged until
it had a seating capacity of five hundred. In September, 1881,
Father Glauber was succeeded by Father Simeon, who remained until
July, 1888, when the Rev. J. E. English was appointed pastor of St.
Cecilia's church. During his pastorate the church acquired a half
block of land facing on Seventh street between Kansas and Colorado
avenues. When Father English was transferred to an Omaha par-
ish in September, 1894, he was succeeded by Father INIcDonald, who
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 49
is much loved by his people. He put forth every eiFort to upbuild
the church in all of its departments of work and about ten years ago
entered upon the activities which resulted in the erection of St.
Cecilia's fine house of worsliip. The church was built of a brick such
as is used in the erection of old European cathedrals. The decora-
tions of the church are most handsome and fitting and in the con-
struction the modern method of reinforced concrete and steel beam
construction was used, there being no pillars to obstruct the view in
the interior of the church. Father JNIcDonald is continuing his laboi's,
being unfaltering in his efforts to promote the cause to which he has
dedicated his life, and his purposes and activities are being crowned
with splendid results.
PHILIP W. YAGER.
Philip W. Yager is activelj^ identified with business interests in
Hastings as proprietor of Yager's bakery, which is today one of the
leading productive industries of the city, conducting an extensive busi-
ness and accorded a liberal patronage. He Avas born in Germany,
August 26, 1870, and is a son of Adam and Elizabeth Yager, the
latter now living. The father has passed away and was a forester in
the government service.
Philip W. Yager was educated in the schools of Germany and
after coming to the United States attended business college in Hast-
ings. He sought employment here in connection with the bakerj^ busi-
ness and for seventeen j-ears was employed in the establishment of
which he is now the proprietor. Gradually in that connection he
mastered every phase of the business and Avorked his way upward
until in 1902 he purchased the plant and has since carried on the
business under his own name. His trade has constantly grown and
developed and has noAv assumed extensive and gratifying propor-
tions. He keeps a Avagon for the delivery of his goods and employs
nine people. The most cleanly and sanitary conditions are maintained
in the bakery and he never deviates from the highest standards in the
excellence of the product.
On the 11th of January, 1891, INIr. Yager Avas united in marriage
to INIiss Christina E. Wagner, a daughter of John Wagner, of Adams
county, Ohio, and to them have been born three children, Clarence P.,
Lloyd A. and Effie M. The family hold membership in the Bai)tist
church and jNIr. Yager belongs also to the JMasonic fraternity, in Avhich
50 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
he has attained the Knights Templar degree of the York Rite and the
thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. He is also connected with
the Knights of Pythias and with the Odd Fellows. His political
allegiance is given to the republican party and he keej)s well informed
on the questions and issues of the day but never seeks nor desires
office. He is a progressive and public-sj)irited man, interested in
Hastings and in the upbuilding of the state as well. He deserves
much credit for what he has accomplished in a business way, for his
advancement is due to close application, indefatigable energy and
perseverance. His course has ^\on for him not only deserved success
but also the high respect of those with whom he has been brought in
contact.
GEORGE BLANKENBILLER.
For a third of a century George Blankenbiller has been a resi-
dent of Adams county. At the time of his arrival he settled upon a
tract of raw prairie land on section 3, Silver Lake township, and
began the development of a farm. In the careful management of his
business he won success and is now the owner of a half section of rich
and valuable land from which he derives a gratifying annual income.
He leaves the active operation of the place to others, however, at the
l^resent time, while he is living retired in Juniata, enjoying a rest
which he has truly earned and richly deserves. Pennsylvania claims
him as a native son. He was born near Reading, in Berks county.
May 9, 1838, a son of George and Elizabeth (Siward) Blanken-
biller, who were likewise natives of that state, where they always
remained. The father, who was of German lineage, devoted his life
to carpentering and thus provided for the support of his family, con-
sisting of wife and three children, all of whom are now deceased with
the exception of George Blankenbiller.
Spending his youthful days under the jjarental roof, George
Blankenbiller attended the common schools and at the time of the
Civil war he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting on
the 1.5th of August, 1862, for three years' service in the One Hun-
dred and Sixteenth Regiment of Pennsylvania Voltmteer Infantry.
He was assigned to Company C but during the war was transferred
at Harper's Feriy to Battery A of the Fourth Artillery. He par-
ticipated in the battle of Fredericksburg and afterward went into
camp for the winter on the north side of the Rappahannock river,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 51
where the troops remained until May, 1863. They then started down
the river to Chancellorsville and participated in the engagement of
that place. They were afterward at Gettysburg and Mr. Blanken-
biller took part in the three days' engagement there. Later he par-
ticipated in the battle of the Wilderness, but becoming ill, was sent
on sick leave to Washington and was there honorably discharged on
accomit of disability. He sustained two slight womids in the battle
of Gettysburg. Ever faithful to duty, he made an excellent record
by his loyalty and bravery.
After his retm'n home Mr. Blankenbiller worked as he could until
he had recovered his health. He then went to Lancaster county,
Pennsylvania, where he resided until 1868, when he removed to Ash-
land countj^ Ohio, where he made his home for six years. On the
expiration of that period he came to this state and took up his abode
on section 3, Silver Lake township, Adams countj\ His place was
a tract of raw prairie on which not a fuiTOw had been turned nor an
improvement made, but wdth characteristic energy he began to break
the sod and develop the jilace, building a small house and setting out
a good orchard. He continued the work of development and improve-
ment year after year and is today the owner of a valuable property
comprising a half section of land which returns to him a gratifying
annual income. He was also at one time the owner of seventy acres on
section 9 of the same township but sold this to one of his sons. In
1905 he removed to Juniata, where he has two acres surrounding an
attractive, commodious and comfortable residence. His lawn is
tastefully adorned with shrubs and trees and the home provides him
with all of the comforts of life.
]Mr. Blankenbiller has been married twice. On the 12th of Octo-
ber, 1869, he wedded Miss Harriett Palmer, who passed away in
October, 1883. To them were born the following children: John,
who resides on the home jilace; David, a high school professor in St.
Paul, Minnesota; George and Henry, both of whom are deceased;
Daniel, a druggist of Rushville, Nebraska; Samuel, living in Has-
tings, Nebraska; ]\Iilton, who makes liis home near Roseland, this
state : and Mary, the wife of Floyd Woods, living near Juniata. In
December, 1885, Mr. Blankenbiller was again married, his second
union being with JNIiss Anna Brubaker, a native of Snj^der county,
Pennsylvania, by whom he had two children, namely: Anna, who
became the wife of C. C. Laap and died in 1914; and Harriet,
a trained nurse in the Frances E. Willard Hospital of Chicago.
iNIr. Blankenbiller and his wife are very active and devout mem-
bers of the Brethren church and assisted in building the house of wor-
52 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
ship near Roseland. He is serving as one of the deacons of the church
and both take an active and helpful interest in its work. In politics
he has been a lifelong republican, joining the party when age con-
ferred upon him the right of franchise and giving to it stalwart
allegiance through all the intervening years. JSIr. Blankenbiller is a
self-made man, for from early j^outh he has depended upon his own
resources, basing his success upon industry, honesty, perseverance
and determination. .As the years have gone on he has prospered
through the utilization of those qualities and the most envious cannot
grudge him his success, so honorably has it been won and so worthily
used.
ISAIAH D. EVANS.
Isaiah D. Evans, of KenesaAv, who was formerly connected with
journalism and banking, has since 1896 given his attention to agricul-
tural interests and has proved very successful as a farmer. He has
given a great deal of time and thought to public affairs and has been
called to a number of offices, which he has filled with distinction. He
was born in Tioga county, Pennsylvania, December 25, 1844, of the
marriage of Evan and JNIargaret (Williams) Evans, who emigrated
from Wales to America in 1843. They resided in Penns3dvania
until their son, Isaiah D., was four years of age, when removal was
made to Wisconsin. The father was one of the representative citi-
zens of his community and his demise, which occurred in 1863, was
deeply regretted.
Isaiah D. Evans was reared at home and at the usual age entered
the public schools, where he secured his early education. Subse-
quently he was a student in an academy at Sjjring Green, Wisconsin,
and he took a commercial course in Eastman's Business College. At
the time of the Civil Avar he enlisted in Company E, Forty-ninth
Wisconsin Infantry, of which he became first sergeant, and remained
with that command until after the close of hostilities, being mustered
out at Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Missouri, in November, 1865,
when not quite twenty-one years of age. He decided to tiy his for-
tune in the far west and in 1866 drove four mules across the plains
from Nebraska City to Salt Lake City and thence to Virginia City,
Montana. He remained in that territory for about four j^ears, dur-
ing which time he engaged in prospecting to a considerable extent,
and for two winters taught school. In 1871 he returned to Nebraska
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 53
and located at Lowell, where he published the Lowell Register. Sub-
sequently he established the Sutton Register and still later he was
made cashier of the internal reX^enue office at Omaha. After his term
of service expired he founded the town of Stockham in Hamilton
county, Nebraska, in accordance with the terms of a contract with
the Northwestern Railroad for establishing a station at that point.
He saw to the platting of the town site and gave his j)ersonal atten-
tion to the sale of the town lots. During this time he also organized
the Bank of Stockham, of which he was cashier for seven years. In
1896 he removed to Kenesaw and has since engaged in farming in
this locality. He is a frequent contributor to the agricultural press
of the state and active in promoting better farming along modern
lines. Mr. Evans was married on the 25th of April, 1878, at Kene-
saw, to Miss Emma Williams, a daughter of Professor A. D. Wil-
liams, a minister of the Baptist church, an educator of note and an
able writer. Before her marriage JNIrs. Evans was a very successful
teacher and for about three years, while Mr. Evans was in the govern-
ment service at Omaha, she conducted the Sutton Register, having
charge of all the work of publishing the pa^Jer with the exception
that JNIr. Evans furnished some of the editorial copy. To this union
have been born three children, as follows: Grace Alice, whose birth
occurred in 1881, is a graduate of the State University of Nebraska
and is now the wife of F. J. Schaufelberger, of Los Angeles, Cali-
fornia. Fred W. lives near the Evans homestead and is farming in
partnership with his father. He married JNIiss Hazel Armitage and
they have a son, Cedric, two years of age. Esther Evilian is living at
home and has largely relieved her mother of the cares of the house and
is proving herself an expert housekeeper.
JMr. Evans is a man of influence in political circles of the state and
has been a frequent contributor to tlie press on public questions. He
is a progressive republican, being a strong believer in the rule of the
people and in the strict regulation of big business. He recognizes that
adjustment must be made in the political field as well as in others to
the changed conditions of modern life and sui^ports all movements cal-
culated to bring about a more exact social justice. Among other pro-
gressive measures he favors the abolition of the liquor traffic as he is
convinced that it is responsible for manj' of the evils with which society
has to contend. He has served in a number of offices and has always
proved capable and conscientious in the discharge of his duties. He
was for some time clerk in the internal revenue office at Omaha and
was later promoted to cashier of that office. In 1899 and again in 1911
he was elected representative from Adams county to the state legisla-
54 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
ture and during both sessions he stood firmly for all measures whose
adoption he believed would make for the public good. In 1911 he was
the republican candidate for speaker and was recognized as one of the
leaders of the house. He was very influential in legislative affairs, was
the author of the presidential primary law, of the law creating a board
of pardons, and was active in support of the initiative and referendum
amendment to the constitution. In 1912 he was a candidate for the
republican nomination for state auditor. He is at the present time a
candidate for the state senate for the district comprising Adams and
Clay counties. He is widely known throughout the state because of
his activity in political lines and all who come in contact Avith him
acknowledge his ability and his public spirit. His interest in the larger
affairs of government has not prevented him from being active in local
matters and for fifteen years he was a member of the Kenesaw school
board. He is connected with the INIasonic order and the Odd Fellows
and is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, thus keep-
ing in touch with his comrades in blue. The record of his varied activi-
ties is in itself proof that he is a prominent citizen of Kenesaw and of
Adams county. " .~ '^.^^eO 59i,*-vAaa H
DEATHS ANEmThOALr'
-— jn-i
McKELVY, James— Died 12:20
a. m., today, Juuiata. age 86; fu._
T A "\nr C "\T/-.T4"17T ArV neral at Methodist Church, con-'
probably Fi-iday.
James IMcKelvy is an honored veteran of the Civil war, being
among the leaders of the old guard who defended the Union during
the darkest hour in our country's history. He now resides at Juniata
and all through the days of peace he has been as loyal to the flag as
when he followed the stars and stripes on southern battlefields. He
was born in County Monaghan, Ireland, April 25, 1838, the day on
which Queen Victoria was crowned. His parents were Hugh and
^Margaret (Caldwell) JNIcKelvy, and his grandparents were born in
Scotland and came of an old family of that country. The father and
mother, however, were natives of the Emerald isle and they came to
the United States in 1842, when their son James was but four years
of age, making the voyage in a sailing vessel which reached New York
six weeks after leaving Liverpool. Thev hf^o^-<^^^ ^'£<\'^'''\'^':, "f "^^^
ox. Notlc« of Hearm0.
Lawrence county. New York, where the f ath. ^^%Vr^'^ty coJ^'ldaSrcol';?:
tion of farming and where both he and his wife'^^ a^r'pe'i'ons mtereaud m .aid Ee-
family M-ere nine children : John, deceased ; J xa'ue Notice, That a petition has
^^ , -\ n • • ,^ y-^- •■! 1 ^ been filed for the probate of a cer.
enlisted tor service in the Civil war under Geitam .vTitten mgtnimnt now on fiio in
1 -n 1 . -n 11 T 1 •■ . ^ , „ said Court, and purporting to be the
killed at Folly Island m South Carolina; Alex liX,^;'^" a*e"cl..lr*and"sai^/ ^i^nl's■
feM bean «et for hearing March 1.
1924, at 2 o'clock P. M.. at tlie Ooun-
Jy Court Room, In Hastlngrs, Nebras-
i>fttea February 7, \ltH.
(SEAL) JoMph M. TuAyflll.
.Tudfe of the County Court.
A true copy. t-g-lS-22.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 55
the front under General Gillmore and lost a leg at the battle of
Chapin's Farm, his death resulting two years later from the effects of
his injmy; Elizabeth Gray, Ellen Armstrong, Jane Glass and JNIar-
garet Johnson, all now deceased; and INIrs. Sibella Armstrong, living
in St. Lawrence county. New York.
James McKelvy pursued his education in the common schools of
New York and remained at home until he reached the age of seven-
teen years. He afterward worked out for a time but on the death of
his father in 1859 returned home and there remained until the 29th of
April, 1861, when in response to the country's call for troops he
enlisted as a member of Company G, Sixteenth New York Infantry,
to serve for two years. He was honorably discharged May 15, 1863,
following the exi^iration of his term of enlistment. He then returned
home, where he remained until the news reached him concerning the
battle of Gettysburg, when he again joined the armj% becoming a
member of the Fourteenth 'New York Heavy Ai'tillery for a three
years' term. He was discharged September 14, 1864, at which time
he was first sergeant of his company, and he received a commission as
second lieutenant in recognition of his general efficiency. He then
served as an officer until the Grand Review in Washington, when he
resigned and returned home. He had been wounded in the explosion
of the mine in front of Petersburg and was in the hospital for about
two months, after which he was granted a sick leave of two months,
which he sjient at home. Twice during his connection with the army he
was taken prisoner, once at the first battle of Bull Run and again in
front of Petersburg, but he managed to make his escajje both times.
He was with the Army of the Potomac in all of its principal engage-
ments except at Gettysburg and he made a splendid record as a brave
and loyal soldier. Years afterward he served as a delegate to the reun-
ion of the old soldiers held at Rochester, New York.
After the war jNIr. JMcKelvy remained in the Empire state for a
year and then removed to Van Buren county, JNIichigan, where he
engaged in farming and carjientering for four years. In the spring of
1872 he arrived in Nebraska, settling four miles west of Juniata,
where he secured a homestead claim on section 8, Juniata precinct.
He there built a board shanty twelve by sixteen feet and sodded it up
the first winter. He remained upon that farm until 1905 and then
came to Juniata, where he still resides, purchasing a fine residence in
the town after selling his farm. He now has a house and barn and
four lots in the town and his is one of the most attractive and pleasant
residences of Juniata. When he first came to Nebraska he worked at
his trade, but the greater part of his attention has been given to gen-
56 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
eral agricultural pursuits and through his careful methods in tilling
the soil and his well directed energy he won the success which is now
his, enabling him to live retired in the enjojanent of well earned rest.
]\Ir. jNIcKelvy has been married twice. In 1865 he wedded Miss
Sarah J. JMcFadden, by whom he had five children, as follows: Lewell,
who is deceased; Glenn, a resident of Biglake, Washington; Vasco J.,
who makes his home in California ; Lysle, who has passed away ; and
one who died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away in 1882
and the following year Mr. INIcKelvy was again married, his second
union being with INIrs. Emma Lochmar, who bore the maiden name of
Emma Burwell. By her first husband she had a son, Frank Lochmar,
who is a resident of Sioux City, Iowa.
JNIr. JMcKelvy has been a lifelong republican and cast his first presi-
dential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He once served for a term as
township supervisor but has never been a politician in the sense of
office seeking, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business
affairs and leave office holding to others. His religious faith is evi-
denced in his membership in the jMethodist church, to the teachings of
which he has ever loyally adhered. He is a member of the INIasonie
lodge at Juniata, in which he has filled almost all of the chairs," and
both he and his wife are connected with the Order of the Eastern Star.
He is likewise a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and has
filled all of the offices in Geary Post, No. 81, of which he is now com-
mander. In this way he maintains jileasant relations with his old army
comrades and delights in recounting scenes and incidents of the days
when they followed the nation's starry banner upon the battlefields of
the south. It was a time that tried men's souls, but from the war there
were formed many pleasant associations, and kindred experiences
drew men together in strong ties of friendship.
DAVID JOHN LEWIS.
David John Lewis is a well-known newspaper writer of Hastings
who has done excellent and highly acceptable work for the Omaha Bee
and the Hastings Daily Tribune. His birth occurred on a farm in
Clay county, Nebraska, his parents being Herbert and Mary Lewis,
who Avere married in Wales and following their emigration to the
United States spent four years in Pennsylvania and Ohio. In 1875
they settled on a farm in Clay county, Nebraska, where the father
was actively and successfully identified with general agricultural pur-
DAVID J. LKWI
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 59
suits until 1905, when they took up their abode in Hastings, where
the mother passed away on the tenth of Maj^ 1910. Herbert Lewis
still survives and is now enjoying the fruits of his former toil in
well-earned ease.
David J. Lewis supplemented his early education by a course of
study in Hastings College of Hastings, Nebraska, which institution
conferred upon him the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1900. Since
his graduation he has been engaged in newspaper work as a writer for
the Omaha Bee and the Hastings Daily Tribune, and has won enviable
recognition by his pleasing, forceful style, his articles proving an
attractive feature of the journals to which he contributes. In his
political views JNIr. Lewis is independent, while fraternally he is identi-
fied with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His life measures
up to the highest standards in every relation and he has won an exten-
sive circle of warm friends in the city of his residence.
LEANDER JOHNSTON.
Leander Johnston owns a good farm of one hundred and sixty
acres on section 8, Denver township, but has retired from active life
and is living in Hastings. He was born in Ohio just across the river
from Wheeling, West Virginia, in 1853, and is a son of John and
Eleanor (Gibson) Johnston, the former a native of Ireland and the
latter of Scotland. Both parents, however, accompanied their respec-
tive parents to Ohio in childhood and there grew to manhood and
womanhood. A number of years after their marriage they removed to
Illinois, but subsequently returned east, taking up their residence in
Cortland, New York, where both passed away.
Leander Johnston was but a child when the familj^ removed to Illi-
nois and there he received his education. After completing the work
offered in the public schools he entered the State Normal School near
Bloomington and took a course in that institution. He assisted his
father with the operation of the home farm during his boyhood and
youth and continued to follow agricultural pursuits in Illinois until
about 1890, when he came west to Nebraska, purchasing land in Den-
ver township, Adams county. He devoted his time and energy to the
operation of that place for many years and his industry was rewarded
by a good financial return. About five years ago, feeling that he had
accumulated a competence, he removed to Hastings and hired a man
to take charge of his farm. He owns a comfortable residence at
60 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
No. 1124 West Sixth street and has made a place for himself as a val-
ued resident of the city. While engaged in farming he raised both
grain and stock and found both branches of his business profitable.
Mr. Johnston was married in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1887, to JNIiss
Lena Everly, a daughter of Nicholas and Julia Everly. ]\Ir. and
]\Irs. Johnston have become the parents of a son, Raj^mond L., who
was born in 1892 and is now the owner of a shoe store on Lincoln ave-
nue in Hastings.
JMr. Johnston gives his political support to the republican party but
has never sought office. He holds membership in the ^Masonic order
and in the Elks lodge and has sought to exemplify the spirit of frater-
nity in his life. He had no capital when he began his career, but he
understood farming thoroughly and this knowledge, combined Avith
his industry and good business judgment, enabled him to gain financial
independence.
JOHN REES.
John Rees, a prominent representative of musical interests of Has-
tings, was born in Wales, September 7, 185o, a son of Richard and
Elizabeth (Edwards) Rees, the former a marine engineer and machin- .
ist. The family crossed the Atlantic in 1870 and became residents of
Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Both parents are now deceased.
John Rees was one of a family of five sons and jjursued his early
education in the schools of Wales, while later he attended high school
at Oshkosh. He was afterward apprenticed to the tinner's trade and
in October, 1878, came to Hastings, where for two years he worked at
his trade. In the meantime he had been studying music and merely
utilized his trade in order to secure the means that would enable him to
pursue his musical education. In 1880 he began teaching music and
has since devoted his time and attention to that profession, teaching
the violin, piano and pipe organ. He has also been active as a director
of church choirs and is now serving as choir leader in the Congrega-
tional church. All of his time is given to his duties, for he has a large
class and is regarded as one of the most capable and eminent musical
directors in this part of the state. Nature imbued him Avith a love of
music and from early manhood he has cultivated his taste and talent in
this direction and has done much to further the enjoyment of the art
in the city and county in which he lives. He had charge of the Presby-
terian choir in Hastings for over thirty j^ears and of the orchestra of
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 61
the Kerr Opera House for about twenty years and organized the Con-
servatory of JMusic at Hastings College. In the fall of 1912 he with-
drew from the Hastings College Conservatory and established the
Rees Music School.
In INIay, 1878, Professor Rees was married to JNIiss Laura Emery
and to them have been born two daughters, JNIay E. and Gertrude,
both of whom are teachers in the Rees JNIusic School. Gertrude dis-
plays marked talent as a pianist, Avhile the elder daughter is regarded
as one of the finest violinists in this section of the country and devotes
part of her time to concert and recital work. She is now giving con-
certs in New York state. Both excel in their chosen branches of
music and have studied under those who are acknowledged masters of
the art.
In his political views Professor Rees is a republican but while he
keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the daj' has never
been an office seeker. Fraternally he is connected with the INIasons as
a Knight Templar and as a Scottish Rite ]Mason of the thirty-second
degree. He is also a representative of the Benevolent Protective
Order of Elks. He is very fond of golf, in Avhich sport he displays
considerable skill, and for the past three years he has been president of
the Country Club. His artistic powers and his moral nature render
him popular in all circles and he is most widely and prominently
known in his part of the state.
LEONARD P. MILLS.
Leonard P. INIills, who for the past nine years has operated his
fine farm of four hundred and eighty acres on section 21, Denver
township, was born in Hamilton county, Nebraska, on the 7th of INIay,
1877, a son of G. H. and Hope (English) INIills. The mother is
deceased but the father is residing with his son, A. J. IMills, of Denver
toAvnship, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work.
Leonard P. jNIills was reared in his native county and received his
education in the Trumbull schools. As a boy he became familiar with
agricultural work and remained on the homestead for some time after
reaching mature years. At length he Avent to Omaha but after staying
there for a year came to Adams county, where he has since remained.
He rents four hundred and eighty acres on section 21, Denver town-
ship, from George H. Pratt, a well known business man of Hastings,
and has been very successful in the operation of this farm. He raises
62 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
wheat, corn and alfalfa and also sheep, cattle, hogs and horses. He
understands thoroughly the cultivation of the land and the care of
stock and both phases of his business return him a good profit. Since
he removed to this place it has been improved by the erection of a cattle
bam, a sheep barn and a silo. He owns eighty acres near North Platte
and residence property in Hastings.
In July, 1906, Mr. Mills was married, in Hastings, to Miss Flor-
ence Hull, by whom he has two children : Evart, born April 30, 1909 ;
and Esther, whose birth occurred on the 6th of June, 1911. Mr. Mills
casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the prohibition
party but has never sought office. He belongs to no societies nor
lodges, preferring to spend his leisure hours at home. He has gained
recognition as a progressive and capable agriculturist and as a man
has won the respect and regard of those who have been associated
with him.
THE HANSEN STATE BANK.
The Hansen State Bank is regarded as one of the strong and sub-
stantial financial institutions of Adams county because of the men
who occui^y its offices and direct its policy. This bank was founded in
1912 by H. A. Redman, who was elected president, C. ]M. Redman,
vice president, L. J. Berg, second vice j^resident, and J. J. Mohlman,
cashier. The bank was cajiitalized for ten thousand dollars and they
erected a bank building at a cost of forty-two hundred dollars. It is
the first bank of the town of Hansen and it draws its jjatronage from
the surrounding farmer community. It has adopted as its motto,
service, silence and safety. The bank statement issued December 9,
1915, indicates a business of sixty-six thousand six hundred and
twenty-six dollars, its deposits amounting to fifty-three thousand five
hundred and seven dollars, its capital stock and surplus to ten thou-
sand five hundred dollars and its profits to two thousand two hundred
and fifty-six dollars. This statement shows that the bank is in excel-
lent standing and indicates the excellent growth made by the institu-
tion during the short period of its existence.
H. A. Redman, the president of the bank, was born in Germany
and in his youthful days came to America, settling first in Wisconsin,
while afterward he accompanied his parents on their removal to
Adams county in 1882, at which time the family home was established
on a farm near Juniata. He afterward turned his attention to the
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 63
implement business in Juniata and later conducted a similar under-
taking in Kenesaw. Becoming actively interested in banking, he aided
in organizing the First State Bank of Kenesaw and later served for
a few j^ears as cashier of the German National Bank of Hastings.
In the fall of 1911 he organized the Commercial Exchange Bank of
Donij)han, Nebraska. Thus he brought broad experience to the pres-
ent undertaking and his ability in the field of banking is an assurance
to the patrons of the Hansen State Bank of its wise and successful
conduct. Mr. Redman was married to IMiss Anna Bade, of Adams
county, who died while they were residing in Doniphan, leaving three
children, of whom the son, C. M. Redman, is serving as the cashier
and the daughter. Bertha, is assistant cashier of the Bank of Doni-
phan. The family hold membership in the German Lutheran church
and are prominent in the business and social life of the community.
C. M. Redman, vice president of the Bank of Hansen, was born
on a farm near Juniata in 188.5 and attended the common schools
there, after which he continued his education in the Creighton Phar-
macy College of Omaha and then joined his father, H. A. Redman,
in business and assisted him in organizing the First State Bank of
Kenesaw and later the Commercial Exchange Bank of Doniphan,
serving at j^resent as cashier of the latter as well as vice president of
the Hansen State Bank. He married Clara Polensky, a daughter of
Emil Polensky, of Hastings. They, too, are members of the German
Lutheran church.
L. J. Berg, who was the second vice president of the Hansen State
Bank although he has retired from active management, was born in
Illinois in 1878, a son of Gottlieb Berg, now deceased. In the early
'80s he accompanied his parents to Nebraska, the family home being
established on a farm near Kenesaw, where he still resides. He is one
of the extensive landowners and prosperous citizens of the county,
owning now five hundred and sixty acres. He helped to organize both
the Hansen and Donij^han banks but sold his interest in both in 1913
and is now living retired at Kenesaw. He married a daughter of
Ed Rief, of Hall county, and they have one child.
John J. JMohlman, cashier of the Hansen State Bank, to whom
we are indebted for the material concerning the institution and the
history of its officers, was born in Germany in 1883 and in the year
1889 was brought to Nebraska by his parents, John and Antje JMohl-
man, who settled in Clay county, near Glenville, where the father
purchased a section of land, where he and his wife still make their
home. They had a family of seven children, of whom two have passed
away, while those yet surviving are Fred, John, George, Anton and
64 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Grace, all living in Hall county with the exception of the second
named.
John J. JMohlman was reared to manhood upon the old homestead
and acquired a common school education, supplemented by study in
Hastings College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1908.
He took up the profession of teaching and served for three years as
principal of schools, spending two years at Valentine and one year at
Nelson. He then turned his attention to the banking business and
aided in organizing the Hansen and Doniphan banks and is now vice
president of the Commercial Exchange Bank of Doniphan and cashier
of the Hansen State Bank, being active in the management and con-
trol of the latter, while his official position also gives him voice in the
direction of the former. He is a wide-awake, enterprising and pro-
gressive young business man who realizes the fact that the bank which
most carefully safeguards its depositors is the one most worthy of
support.
In 1913 Mr. Mohlman was married to Miss Elsie Nielson, a
daughter of Hans Nielson, Avho was formerly a resident of Valentine,
Nebraska, but is now living in Copenhagen, Denmark. They have
one son, Laverne, who was born in 1914. The parents are members
of the Presbyterian church at Hansen, in the work of which they are
actively interested, Mr. INIohlman serving as one of the trustees, and
fraternally he is also connected with the Odd Fellows lodge at Hast-
ings. He is a wide-awake and enterprising young business man, alert
to the oi^ijortunities for the attainment of success and, like the other
officers of the Doniphan and Hastings banks, occui^ies a very enviable
position in financial circles in this county.
THOMAS G. WHITING.
Thomas G. Whiting is engaged in general farming in Juniata
township and is today the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of
land which pays tribute to the care and cultivation which he bestows
upon it. Though he started out in life empty handed, he has worked
his way upward and perseverance and industry- have been the salient
features in his growing success. He was born in Rutlandshire, Eng-
land, on the 9th of INIay, 1849, a son of Noel and Margaret (Bissell)
Whiting, both of whom were natives of England, where they spent
their entire lives. The father served for some time as a county official
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 65
there. In the family were six children, but the five daughters never
came to the new world.
Thomas G. Whiting attended school in his native country but his
educational opi)ortunities were limited, for at the age of eleven years
he^ began work and has since provided for his own support. He
served for a time as footman in the family of a wealthy man and was
variously employed in England until 1870, when he came to the
United States, settling near JMadison, Wisconsin. He spent two years
there and in 1872 arrived in Adams county, Nebraska, after which he
homesteaded on section 18, Juniata township, securing eighty acres of
land to which he has added from time to time as his financial resources
have increased until he is now the owner of three hundred and twentj^
acres, constituting a very valuable farm to which he has added all mod-
ern accessories and equipment. He is also the owner of some city
property in Oklahoma. His life in this county has been devoted to
general farming and his labors have been attended with substantial
success. He was also one of the organizers of the Farmers Grain
Company of Juniata and has been a member of its board for a number
of years.
In 1872 JNIr. Whiting was united in marriage to INIiss Elizabeth
Hardy, a native of England, by whom he had three children, as fol-
lows : George Noel, who cultivates land belonging to his father ; Elva,
who is the wife of E. J. Bolton and resides near Juniata; and Harry
B., at home.
Politically ]Mr. Whiting is a stanch republican, having supported
the party since becoming a naturalized American citizen. His fellow
townsmen, ajipreciative of his ability, have several times called him to
public office. For four years he served as county connnissioner, was
justice of the peace for two years and has been road supervisor and
school director. Both Mr. and Mrs. Whiting were members of the
Episcopal church, but about five years ago he was called upon to mourn
the loss of his wife, whose death was deeply regretted throughout the
community as well as bj^ her immediate family. She had indeed been
a faithful companion to him, and to her he attributes half that he jjos-
sesses. She shared with him in the hardships and trials of pioneer life
in the days when they came to the county and their home was a little
dugout. Afterward they had a sod house before they were able to
build the more commodious, modern residence which INIr. Whiting
later erected upon the farm. He put out one of the early orchards of
the county and added all the improvements to his place and through all
was encouraged by his wife, who ably managed the household aiFairs
and indeed proved a helpmate to her husband. Mr. Whiting is con-
66 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
nected with the United Workmen lodge of Juniata and with the Bank-
ing Life of Lincohi, Nebraska. He has always been interested in
community affairs, cooperating in movements and measures for the
public good, and wherever he is known he is held in high regard be-
cause of a well spent life.
W. L. SUCHA, M. D.
Dr. W. L. Sucha, of Hastings, a well known surgeon of Nebraska,
utilizes all of the latest discoveries and scientific developments of
surgical science in the practice of his profession and has won a notable
and enviable position as one whose skill places him in the foremost
ranks. He was born on the 31st of INIarch, 1884, in Schuyler,
Nebraska, a son of Frank and Mary Sucha, who were farming peo-
ple. The family came to this state in 1879 from Shelby ville, Illinois,
and after devoting about a quarter of a century to general agricultural
pursuits the father retired from active business in 1903. He and his
wife celebrated their golden wedding in October, 1915, having trav-
eled life's journey together for a half century, during which their love
and confidence has increased as the years have gone by. They became
the i^arents of eleven children, six sons and five daughters.
Dr. Sucha, after attending the district schools, continued his
studies in the Schuyler high school and afterward attended the Fre-
mont Normal College, from which he was graduated with the Bach-
elor of Science degree. He thus secured a broad foundation for
professional learning and entered upon the study of medicine at
Creighton University at Omaha, from which he was graduated on the
2d of ]May, 1908. He afterward served as interne in the Omaha Gen-
eral Hospital for a year and subsequently practiced medicine at
Orleans, Nebraska, for four years. He then went to Chicago, where
he took post-graduate work, devoting his time to surgical clinics under
the direction of J. B. JMurphy, one of the greatest surgeons of the
United States. He also added to his experience by professional
service in ]\Iercy Hospital. In February, 1914, he came to Hastings,
Avhere he now confines his attention to surgical work, performing both
major and minor operations. His ability has brought him to the front
and his laudable ambition along professional lines keeps him in touch
Avith the latest discoveries of the science.
On the 1st of June, 1909, Dr. Sucha was united in marriage to
Miss Irene Muldoon, a daughter of James K. Muldoon, of Omaha.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 67
Both are devout communicants of the Cathohc church. Dr. Sucha
also belongs to Hastings Council of the Knights of Columbus and he
gives his political allegiance to the republican party. He is interested
in all that pertains to the progress of his community, supporting every
political and public measure for the general good. Along professional
lines he is connected with the Republican Valley Medical Association,
of which he has been president, the Nebraska State Medical Society
and the American Medical Association. He enjoys motoring and
hunting as a means of recreation and when leisure permits employs
his time in that way, but his first duty is always his profession and each
year he takes post-graduate work in order to keep abreast with the
trend of the times.
WILLIAM H. BURKE.
William H. Burke, who is a successful farmer of Highland town-
ship, where he owns one hundred and sixty acres of good land, was
born in Galesbm-g, Illinois, on the 28th of December, 1869, and is a
son of Patrick and Catherine (Gleasure) Burke. The father was
born in Ireland and was there left an orphan, both of his parents dying
during his boyhood. He came to America in 1849, when twelve years
of age, being brought to this country by friends, and grew to man-
hood in Michigan. He engaged in farming there but following his
marriage, which occurred in the ^Volverine state, he went to Gales-
burg, Illinois, where he worked on a railroad until 1881, when he
removed to Adams county with his family, which numbered four chil-
dren. His wife was born in Denmark and was a daughter of Henry
Gleasure, a representative of the same family of Gleasures that estab-
lished the first JMethodist Episcopal church in the United States. JNIrs.
Burke's father farmed in Michigan for a number of years and was
successful in his chosen occuj^ation. JNIr. Burke died upon his farm
in this county Avhen sixty-five years of age but his wife is still living
and makes her home in Hastings. All of their children are still living,
namely: Rosa, who is teaching school in Chicago; William H.;
Thomas G., who is retired and lives in Nevada ; and Hattie, the wife
of Len Patterson, a resident of Idaho.
William H. Burke attended the city schools of Galesburg, Illi-
nois, and following the removal of the family to Adams county,
Nebraska, attended the country schools near his home. As his age
and strength increased he aided more and more in the work of the
68 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
farm and after reaching mature years took charge of the oi^eration of
the place. Subsequently he bought a quarter section across the road
from his present farm but in 1904 disposed of that property and pur-
chased the farm on section 16, Highland township, which he still owns.
It comprises one hundred and sixty acres and as the land is naturally
fertile and in a high state of cultivation he seldom fails to harvest
good crops. He raises wheat, corn, oats and alfalfa and also keeps
on hand some stock, averaging from eight to ten head of cattle and
from twentj' to thirty hogs. He has erected all of the buildings upon
the farm with the exception of the residence and has otherwise im-
IJroved the place.
]\Ir. Burke was married on the 29th of November, 1894, to Miss
Mabel Houser, a daughter of George and Emily Houser, of High-
land township. Her parents were formerly residents of Iowa but are
now living in Linden, this county. ]Mr. and JNIrs. Burke have become
the parents of three children: Rollin, who was born December 23,
1895; JNIaurice, born December 11, 1900; and Kenneth, whose birth
occurred on the 8th of September, 1906. Mr. Burke is a stanch
rejiublican and works loyally to secure the success of that party at the
polls. He is connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen
at Hastings.
HENRY B. DAILY.
Henry B. Daity was one of the leading carpenters of Kenesaw
and won an enviable reputation for skilled work and business integ-
rity. He was born in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, on the 22d of
May, 1838, of the marriage of John and Catherine (Becker) Daily.
His parents, who were natives of Pennsylvania, went to Putnam
county, Illinois, with their family in 1853 and three j-ears later
removed to Des INIoines county, Iowa, Avhere both passed awa3\ The
father devoted his life to farming and met with a good measure of
success in that occupation.
Henry B. Daily attended the common schools and also assisted
his father with the farm work. He remained at home until the 21st
of October, 1861, when he enlisted in Company E, Fifteenth Iowa
Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the battle of Shiloh and on
a forced march between Pittsburgh Landing and Corinth was rup-
tured and was forced to remain for six months in camp. He was
then discharged on the 10th of June, 1862, on account of disability
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 69
and returned home. He worked as a hired hand until 1872, when he
came to Adams county, Nebraska, and located in Kenesaw. He
turned his attention to carpentering, which he folloAved successfully
until his death in JNIay, 1897. He took a great deal of pride in his
work, which was always well done, and the demands upon his services
were heavy.
On the 2d of February, 1865, occurred the marriage of Mr. Daily
and JMrs. Anna (Landis) Daily, a widow of his brother. She was
born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, on the 7th of February,
1838, and is a daughter of Christian and Anna (Funk) Landis, who
were also natives of that county. In 1850 the family removed to Des
Moines countj^ Iowa, and there both parents passed away. Mrs.
Daily's first husband was also a soldier of the Civil war and while
serving as a teamster during the siege of Vicksburg his saddle mule
fell Avith him. He was very badly injured and also contracted swamp
fever, from which he died in the Cumberland Hospital at Nashville,
Tennessee. To Mr. and Mrs. Henry B. Daily were born four chil-
dren, namely: Alice, the wife of O. I. Roberts, Avho resides near
Prosser; John W., a resident of Jones county, Iowa; Emma, at home;
and Joseph L., who lives in Wheeler county, Nebraska.
]\Ir. Daily was an adherent of the republican party and served
acceptably as assessor. He belonged to the ]Methodist Episcopal
church and was also identified with the Grand Army of the Republic.
He always discharged to the full all obligations resting upon him and
took a public-spirited interest in the general welfare. He was a man
of sterling worth and the circle of his friends was almost coextensive
with the circle of his acquaintance.
HENRY J. C. MEYER.
Henry J. C. Meyer, who owns two hundred and forty acres of
the north half of section 20, Blaine township, was born in Harrison
county, Indiana, on the 22d of November, 1852. His father, C.
Meyer, was born in Germany but emigrated to the United States in
young manhood and in 1833 settled in Indiana, where he was married
to Elizabeth Reinhart, also a native of Germany. In his earlj^ days
the father was a turner and later became identified with agricultural
pursuits.
Henry J; C. Meyer attended the common schools until he was six-
teen years of age, when he j)ut aside his textbooks and devoted his
70 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
entire time to assisting his father with the work of the farm. Two
years later he went to Louisville, Kentucky, and there found employ-
ment in a furniture factory, so continuing until he was twenty years
old. He then went to Troy, Indiana, and was engaged in making
furniture there for six months, after which he was for a short time a
resident of New Orleans. On returning north he went to INIarshall
county, Illinois, where he rented land until 1888, which year wit-
nessed his arrival in Adams county. For a time he rented a farm but
as soon as his resources would permit purchased his present place in
Blaine township. He has always worked hard and his industry and
careful management of his affairs have enabled him to acquire a com-
petence.
Mr. Meyer was married on the 6th of October, 1888, to Miss
Anka Valentine, a daughter of Harm and Trintze (Betten) Valen-
tine, early settlers of this county. Four children have been born to
JNIr. and ]\Irs. JSIeyer, namely: William R., who was born on the
20th of August, 1892, and who is assisting his father; Christian L.,
who was born January 21, 1894, and is at home; Lorena, who was
born July 2, 1898, and is now attending high school at Hastings; and
Louisa, who was born November 24, 1903, and is a pupil in the South
ward school at Hastings.
Mr. JNIeyer supports the republican party at the polls and keeps
well informed as to the questions and issues of the day. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the German Evangelical Luth-
eran church at Hastings. His sterling personal worth has gained him
the respect of all who have been brought into contact with him and
his efficiency as a farmer is generally recognized.
JUDSON BURWELL.
Judson Burwell, who arrived in Adams county in INIay, 1871, took
up his homestead in Juniata township and has since, or for a period of
forty-five years, continued to reside upon that place, which he has
brought to a high state of development. A native of Ohio, his birth
occurred on the 18t]i of October, 1843, in Elmira, Fulton county. His
father, Friend Burwell, was born in Addison, Vermont, on the 22d of
September, 1814, and died in 1901. His parents were Henry and
Annice Burwell. Friend Burwell was married in Williams county,
Ohio, to Harriet S. N. Reynolds, who was horn in Vermont in 1822
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 71
and died on the 13th of March, 1850. She was a daughter of Stephen
and Samantha Reynolds.
Judson Burwell was reared under the parental roof and received
his education in the public schools of his native county. On the 21st
of April, 1861, he enlisted at Waterville, Lucas county, Ohio, in Com-
pany I, Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which went into camp
at Cleveland. A short time later the command went to Columbus,
where the men were armed, and some time in May they proceeded to
Parkersburg, West Virginia. On the 3d of June, 1861, they took
part in the battle of Philippi and they were also in the engagements at
Laurel Hill and at Carricks Ford, Cheat river. His term having
expired, ]Mr. Burwell was discharged on the 13th of August, 1861, at
Toledo, Ohio, but on the 18th of the following October he reenlisted
at ^Vauseon, Fulton county, becoming a member of Company E,
Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. This command went into
camp at Napoleon, Henry county, Ohio, where they remained until
January, 1862, when they proceeded to Columbus to secure their arms
and then left for the front. On or about the 1st of February they took
boat at Cincinnati and landed in the vicinity of Fort Donelson on the
13th of February, 1862. The regiment was assigned to Colonel J. M.
Thayer's Brigade, which was a part of General Lew Wallace's di-
vision, and the command remained in that division until Corinth, Mis-
sissii^jji, was evacuated. Subsequently they went into camp at Bolivar,
Tennessee, but on the oth of October, 1862, they participated in the
battle at Hatcher's Run. In November they became a part of the
Second Brigade, Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, Army of
the Tennessee, and from that time until October, 1864, INIr. Burwell
took part in all of the campaigns of the Army of the Tennessee, the
most notable being those around Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Atlanta,
Georgia. His term of service expired on the 28th of October, 1864,
when he was honorably discharged and returned to civil life. Two of
his brothers gave their lives in defense of the Union. Henry S. was a
member of the Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry and was killed near
luka, ]Mississippi, and James, who belonged to the Fourteenth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, was fatally wounded at Chickamauga.
After leaving the army Mr. Burwell made his way to Kosciusko
county, Indiana, where he engaged in farming for a year. He then
removed to JNIichigan and after working on a farm there for a year
he returned to Indiana, where he remained until the 4th of May, 1871.
He then started for Nebraska and arrived where Juniata now stands
on the 8th of that month. He went to Lincoln and filed on the south-
east quarter of section 2, township 7 north, range 11 west, on the 1.5th
72 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of INIay and had the distinction of being the first man to take up a
lioniestead in that township. He still owns the farm and is still super-
vising its operation. He has proved very successful as an agricultui*-
ist, being at once j)ractical and progressive in his methods, and his
well directed labors have j'ielded him a gratifying income.
Mr. Burwell was married on the 29th of December, 1867, in Kos-
ciusko count}^, Indiana, to ]Miss jNIary A. Robinson, a native of that
county and a daughter of James and Rachel (Anderson) Robinson,
who were born respectively in Kentucky and Ohio. To this union has
been born a daughter, who is the wife of J. E. Wiltrout. They have
two living sons, Chester J. and Ora B., both of whom are married.
Chester married Elizabeth Hubbard, by whom he has a daughter,
Jean, born in JNIay, 1913, and a son, Edward Elroj^ whose birth
occurred in June, 1915. Ora B. married JNIary Clouder.
Mr. Burwell is a stanch republican in politics and has alwaj's taken
a keen interest in public affairs. When the county was organized on
the 12th of December, 1871, he was appointed by the governor as one
of the judges of election, and he has also served as township assessor,
as village trustee and as school trustee. Both in his official capacities
and as a private citizen he has placed the public welfare above all per-
sonal considerations and his jiublic sjiirit is generally recognized. In
early manhood he became a member of the Christian church but of late
years he has attended and contributed to the support of the Baptist
church, of which he and his wife are now members. He holds mem-
bership in Geary Post, No. 81, Department of Nebraska, G. A. R.,
with which he has been identified since October, 1881, and he has held
most of the offices. He is at present serving as commander, Avhich
position he has held a number of times, and the high esteem in which
he is held by his comrades is further indicated by the fact that he was
made a delegate from the Department of Nebraska to the National
Encampment at Louisville, Kentucky; at Denver, Colorado; at To-
ledo, Ohio ; at Detroit, Michigan ; and at Los Angeles, California.
During the period of ]\Ir. Burwell's residence in this county it has
developed from a frontier region to a prosperous farming district and
its people instead of having to endure the many hardships of pioneer
life are provided with all the conveniences found in the older east.
For a year after his arrival here he had to go to Grand Island, thirty-
two miles distant, to get his mail and to buy groceries and other needed
supplies, and it was a number of years before railroads were built
through the county. He recognized, however, that the east was be-
coming overcrowded and that in time the west would be developed
and believed in the future of this district. His faith in Adams cnuntv
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 73
has been justified, and the land which he homesteaded in 1871 is now
very valuable. His life has been filled with useful activity and he is
justl}' held in high esteem by all who know him.
JMULFORD M. HAYNES.
Mulford JNI. Haynes is a member of the firm of Haynes Brothers,
conducting business at Hastings as decorators. They stand in a con-
spicuous and enviable jDosition in their chosen field of labor, the
excellence and beauty of their work winning for them a liberal
patronage and insuring to them a continuance of the trade. Industiy,
promptness and reliability are also factors in their growing success.
Mulford M. Haynes was born in Henry county, Illinois, Novem-
ber 16, 1867, a son of E. P. and Joanna (Barrows) Haynes. The
family came to Nebraska in 1877 from Illinois and settled on a farm
where the cemetery is now located. There the father carried on gen-
eral agricultural pursuits for a number of years but afterward lived
retired. Both he and his wife have now passed aAvay.
JMulford jM. Haynes pursued a public school education and after-
ward turned his attention to the building business, working at the
carpenter's trade. For seven j^ears he was in the employ of W. L.
Y^'etter, a decorator, and in 1900 he and his brother purchased the
business of Mr. Y'etter and have since continued active along that
line. They have done work all over this section of the state and now
employ fifteen men. They have decorated the princij^al buildings in
Hastings and also many fine structiu'es elsewhere and their work
presents many beautiful and artistic features as well as all that is new
and novel in their line. Their patronage is extensive owing to the
excellence of their work and their business integrity', their reputation
in business affairs being unassailable.
On the 31st of ]March, 1897, INIr. Haynes Mas united in marriage
to JNIiss Ida Gilbreth, a daughter of John Gilbreth, of Hastings. To
them have been born four children, namely: Gilbert M., Dorothy L.,
Katherine J. and John W.
In his i^olitical views ]Mr. Haynes is independent, while his
religious faith is that of the Christian church. Fraternally he is iden-
tified with the JMasons and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
]Mr. Haynes belongs to the Commercial Club and is interested in all
the plans and projects for the upbuilding and development of his cit^^
He served for four years as a member of the city council and exer-
74 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
cised liis official i^rerogatives in support of many plans and measures
for the general good. He was one of the first to take up the fight
against saloons and has always been a stalwart supporter of the cause
of temperance. In a word, he stands for anytliing that is for the bet-
terment of the individual or the community and his influence is always
on the side of right, reform and progress.
LEANDER E. MAXIM.
Leander E. Maxim engaged in carpentering in Kenesaw for a
number of years and his excellent workmanship and good business
ability enabled him to gain a gratifying measure of success. For
twenty years before his removal to Kenesaw he followed farming in
Kearney county and his well directed labors as a farmer also yielded
him good financial returns. He was born in Somerset county, Maine,
on the 3d of February, 1837, of the marriage of Jesse and Louisa
(Pease) Maxim. The father, who was born in Plymouth county,
Massachusetts, in 1807, was a direct descendant of Mayflower an-
cestry. In 1811, when but four years of age, he was taken by his
j)arents to Maine and there resided until his death.
Leander E. Maxim received M^hat was considered a fair education
in those days, but as he was the eldest child and the family were in
only moderate circumstances he had to begin work while still a boy.
He aided in the cultivation of the home farm and also worked as a
hired hand, being so employed until the 5th of November, 1861, Avhen
he enlisted in the Union arm}% becoming a member of Company D,
Thirteenth Regiment, Maine Volunteer Infantry. During much of
his service he was employed in guarding trains and commissary stores
but he took part in considerable fighting, including the Red River
campaign. He was mustered out in January, 1865, and returned to
Maine, where he followed the carpenter's trade until 1866. In that
year he removed to Lewiston and for two years worked in the cotton
mills there. He then again turned his attention to the carpenter's
trade, which he followed in the east until 1876. That year witnessed
his removal to Wisconsin and in 1878 he went to Kearney county,
Nebraska. He homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land there
and for twenty years folloM^ed agricultural pursuits, but at length sold
his farm and removed to Kenesaw, where he worked at the carpen-
ter's trade until he retired from active life.
Mr. Maxim was married on the 14th of September, 1868, to Miss
HERVEY r. JIAXnt MRS. HERVEY U. JIAXlil
CLARENCE H. ilAXIJI
LKAXDER E. JIAXIM MRS. I.KAN DKR K. MAXIM
PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 77
Cornelia A. Jones, who died in 1874. To them were born two chil-
dren, Alma and Her^'ey U., both of whom are deceased. JNIr. JMaxim
is indej)endent in politics and takes a commendable interest in public
affairs. His religious faith is that of the Free Baptist church and
he is identified with the Grand Ai'my of the Republic. He is eligible
to the Sons of the American Revolution and has proved worthy of
his JNIayflower ancestry, standing firmlj' at all times for what he
believes to be the right and manifesting a spirit of enterprise and
self-reliance.
GEORGE W. LONG.
George W. Long, a progressive and efficient farmer residing on
section 6, Denver township, was born in Livingston county, JNIissouri,
on the 10th of October, 1879. His parents, James M. and Martha
Josej)hihe (Wilson) Long, were natives of Pennsyhania but resided
for many years in JNIissouri, where the mother passed away. In Sep-
tember, 1904, the father came to Adams county, Nebraska, whence
he subsequentlj' removed to the state of Washington. After living
there for a year he returned to this county and is now living on an
eighty acre farm on section 5, Denver township, which is owned by
our subject. There were three children in the familj', of whom one
died in infancy, the others being: George W. ; and JMarguerite, who
gave her hand in marriage to J. L. FuUerton, the owner of a flour and
feed store in Hastings.
George W. Long remained in JNIissouri until he was twentj^ years
of age and is indebted for his education to the public schools of the
state. Through assisting his father with the work of the home farm
he gained valuable knowledge concerning practical methods of agri-
culture and after his removal to Adams country, Nebraska, in 190-4, he
purchased an eighty acre tract three miles north of his present farm.
Subsequently he bought a quarter section in West Blue township
wliich Bentley Brown now owns. After selling that place JNIr. Long
went to Kansas, where he purchased two farms, Avhich he later dis-
posed of. He next bought land in Hamilton county, Nebraska, but
after holding it for some time sold out and returned to Adams county,
])urchasing land in Denver township. However, he resides on a rented
farm, which is owned b_v Edwin A. Carl and which comprises one hun-
dred and sixty acres on section 6, Denver township. He has operated
this place for five years and his well directed labors are rewarded by
78 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
good financial returns. He does general farming, raising grain and
stock, paying esjjecial attention to the raising of thoroughbred Poland
China hogs.
In 1901 occurred the marriage of JNIr. Long and JNIiss Nannie
Bruce, who was born in Sheridan county, INIissouri, of the marriage
of Daniel and Sarah Bruce. Two children have been born to this
union, namely: Gladys, born on the 23d of February, 1906; and
Alice, seven years old.
Mr. Long supports the democratic party at the polls as he believes
fii-mly in the wisdom of its policies. He is well known in local fra-
ternal circles, belonging to the INIodern Woodmen, the Knights of
Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, all of Juniata.
He is very active in the work of the INIethodist Episcopal church at
Juniata, to which he belongs, and for three years has served as super-
intendent of the Sunday school. His life has been guided by the
highest principles of morality and all who have come in contact with
him testify to his integrity and regard for the rights of others. In his
farm work he is at once practical and progressive and the gratifying
measure of success which he has gained is due entirely to his own
efforts.
KARL KAUF.
Karl Kauf is the senior partner of the firm of Kauf & Rinder-
spacher & Company of Hastings, controlling one of the important
commercial and industrial enterprises of the city. Well defined plans,
carefullj' executed, have led him forward to the goal of success and at
the same time his business interests have been of a character which have
contributed to the general welfare as well as to individual prosperity.
He was born in Baden, German}% on the 16th of jMarch, 1862, a son
of Jacob and Selma Kauf. The father, who Avas a farmer by occupa-
tion, has now jiassed away, but the mother is living at the age of eighty-
four years, having for forty-one years survived her husband, Avho died
in 1874.
Karl Kauf was educated in Germany and was a young man of
eighteen years when on the 25th of September, 1880, he sailed for the
Uliited States. He located first in Newark, New Jersey, and after-
ward went to INIassachusetts, where he remained for six months. Still
later he became a resident of Nebraska City, where he spent three
years working for one man. He afterward became a resident of Cab-
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 79
fornia, where he remained for two years, and m 1887 he located at
Hastings, where he formed a partnership with JNIr. Rinderspacher,
since which time they have been associated in business. They started
with very little capital and a two by four meat rack was sufficient for
their stock of meat. They made it a rule that they would never incur
indebtedness and to this day have strictly adhered. Their trade stead-
ily grew by reason of their honorable methods and unfaltering enter-
j)rise and after six years they were enabled to j)urchase their present
place of business — a two story brick building now entirely devoted to
their trade. They conduct both a wholesale and retail business in
meats, shipping to various i^arts of the state, and they have the best
equii^ped independent meat establishment in Nebraska, conducting
their own slaughter house to which a private switch has been extended,
having also their own ice house and employing twenty men. In addi-
tion to his other interests JNIr. Kauf is a stockholder and director of the
b]'ewerj% also of the canning factory at Hastings and is a stockholder
in the foundry.
On the 9th of July, 188.5, in California, Mr. Kauf was united in
marriage to Miss Selma Rinderspacher, a daughter of Jacob Rinder-
sjjacher. To them have been born four children, namely : INIina, Marie,
Selma and Karl.
Politicallj^ ]Mr. Kauf is independent, supporting men and meas-
ures rather than party. His religious faith is indicated by his mem-
bership in the German Lutheran church, in which he is serving as
treasurer. He is a valued member of the Commercial Club and also
belongs to the Sons of Herman, of which he was the first president
and is now acting as treasurer. He is a most ^progressive man, recog-
nized as a leader in the German-American circles of the city, and not-
withstanding the fact that he had but twenty-seven dollars when he
arrived in the new world, he has worked his way steadily upward and
is today one of the jDrosperous citizens and substantial business men of
Hastings.
GEORGE W. GOSSARD.
George W. Gossard, who is engaged in general farming in West
Blue township, was born in Washington county, JMaryland, on the
18th of September, 1865, and in his youth attended the common
schools until he reached the age of sixteen years, after which he worked
80 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
for three years upon the home farm of his parents, David and JNIary
(Elliott) Gossard, in whose family were fourteen children.
^Vhen nineteen years of age George W. Gossard removed to Mc-
Donough county, Illinois, where he remained for two and a half years,
Avorking at farm labor for his brother, after which he engaged in the
cultivation of a rented farm on his own account for a year. In 1887
he removed to Hamilton county, Nebraska, and following his mar-
riage in the same j^ear he homesteaded in Hayes county, Nebraska,
where he resided for seven years. In 189ri he went to Hall county,
just north of the Adams county line, Avhere he cultivated a rented
farm for two years. In 1896 he rented land in Adams county and has
since resided in this county with the exception of four and a half
months, which he and his family spent in southern California. In
1906 he purchased his i^resent farm.
It was on the 20th of September, 1887, that ]Mr. Gossard married
JNIiss Ida Radenbaugh, a daughter of Henry Radenbaugh, one of the
pioneer settlers of Adams county, who died in the year 1913, while his
widow survives and is living in Hastings. Mr. and Mrs. Gossard have
become the parents of four children. Guy C, who was born October
30, 1888, married JMarie Crabb, of Los Angeles, California, and is now
engaged in the practice of dentistry at La INIanda Park, California.
Ralph, born October 7, 1891, is engaged in farming near Victorville,
California. Roy, born June 22, 1894, is at home. Dorothy, born
July 2, 1901, is attending school in Trumbull.
]\Ir. and INIrs. Gossard are well known in their part of the county
and are valued members of the ISIethodist church of Trumbull. jNIr.
Gossard is also prominent in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and the INIodern Woodmen camp and in the former has twice passed
through all of the chairs and is now again noble grand. He has served
as road overseer for five years but does not seek to figure prominently
in political circles and in exercising the right of franchise casts an in-
dependent local ballot but at national elections supports the repub-
lican party.
CHARLES IMORITZ.
Charles JMoritz has made a creditable place for himself in busi-
ness circles of Prosser and under his able management the Farmers
Elevator & Lumber Company has enjoyed a steady growth. He was
one of the organizers of the concern, which conducts five elevators
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 81
and which in addition to dealing in grain handles lumber, live stock
and coal. A native of Saxony, Germany, his birth occurred on the
3d of Februarj% 18.55, and he is a son of Carl and JNIary (Stahlhut)
iNIoritz, who emigrated with their family to the United States in 1880.
They located in Adams county, Nebraska, where they lived until
1914, when both passed away. They were the parents of six children,
namely: Charles; Bertha, the wife of P. L. Boyd, a resident of the
state of Washington ; William, who is living in San Francisco ; Mar-
tha, the wife of Rudolph Siebert, of Grand Island, this state; Robert,
a resident of Seattle, Washington ; and Richard, a high school in-
spector of Nebraska at Lincoln.
Charles INIoritz was reared in his native land and received a thor-
ough general education in azi excellent g3'mnasiuni in that country.
When sixteen years of age he went to sea but after a short time came
to the United States in 1871. He at once made his way to the middle
Avest and remained in Stark county, Illinois, until 1878, which year
witnessed his arrival in Adams county, Nebraska. He located in
IMartin townshii). Hall county, and for fourteen j^ears was promi-
nently identified with agricultural interests there. In 1896 he
embarked in the grain business at Prosser, organizing a farmers eleva-
tor company, which he managed with gratifying success until 1904.
In that year he withdrew from that concern and in 1908 it became
insolvent. He still remained active in the grain trade and at length
organized a new company, known as the Farmers Elevator & Lumber
Company, which now conducts five elevators, carrying on business in
Prosser, Kenesaw, New IMarsh, Hayland and the switch. The com-
l^any handles a large amount of grain annually in its elevators and
also does a large business in knnber, live stock and coal. The presi-
dent of the concern is Henry Augustin, Jr., the vice president is
Daniel jNIcGowan and, as before stated, INIr. INIoritz is the manager.
His thorough knowledge of the business, combined with his sound
judgment and foresight, has enabled him to develop the company into
one of the leading concerns in this field of activity in this part of the
state. He is also financially interested in the Hayland Bank, owns a
half section of land in Hall county and one hundred ^nd ten acres of
irrigated land in Texas near the Rio Grande river.
JNIr. INIoritz was married in 188.5 to ^liss Helen Jost, by whom he
has three children : Otto, who is associated with him in business ; INIax,
cashier of the Bank of Hayland; and 3Iartha, the wife of J. C.
Suavely, of Hastings, Nebraska.
INIr. INIoritz supported the republican party in his young manhood,
was later a populist and now votes independently, supporting the best
82 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
candidate irrespective of his party affiliation. While living in Hall
county he served as supervisor and has always taken the interest of a
good citizen in public affairs. He holds membership in the ^Methodist
Episcopal church and the principles which govern his life are still fur-
ther indicated by the fact that he is a prominent ]Mason. He belongs
to the blue lodge at Juniata, to the chajjter and consistory at Hastings
and to the Shrine at Lincoln, and his wife and daughter are both affil-
iated with the Order of the Eastern Star. He is a man of ability and
unquestioned integrity and his personal friends are many.
LEONARD E. ISAAC.
Leonard E. Isaac, who is a representative farmer of Blaine town-
ship, was born in Bureau county, Illinois, on the 1st of January, 1869.
His father, J. W. Isaac, was also born in Bureau county, where his
jjarents, Elias and ]Mary (Black) Isaac, had settled in 1832 and
where they both passed away. He was reared upon the home farm
there and followed agricultural pursuits in that county until 1884,
when he removed to section 23, Zero township, Adams coimty, Ne-
braska. He took up land and was actively and successfully engaged
in its cultivation until 1892, when he retired to Hastings, where he
served on the police force from 1893 to 1898. He passed away on the
8th of April, 1898. His wife bore the maiden name of Emeline Hil-
debrand and was a daughter of John T. Hildebrand, who settled in
Zero townshij), Adams county, in 1882. He passed away ten years
later and was survived by his wife for six years. ]Mrs. Isaac made her
home with our subject from the time of her husband's demise tmtil
she too was called to her final rest, and she is buried in Parkview ceme-
tery.
Leonard E. Isaac attended the common schools of Bureau county,
Illinois, and assisted his father until he was twenty-one years of age.
when his marriage occurred. In the meantime the family home had
been established in Adams county. Nebraska, and on beginning his
independent career our subject began farming on his own account in
this county. He has been very successful as an agriculturist and
derives a good income from the cidtivation of two hundred and forty
acres of land on section 32, Blaine township. He raises corn, hay and
wheat and also stock and is a practical and progressive agriculturist.
On the 2d of November, 1890, ]Mr. Isaac was united in marriage
to INIiss JNIyrtle Susan Carter, a daughter of W. H. and ]Malvina
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUXTY 83
Carter, of Livingston, Illinois. Her father is deceased but her mother
is living and now resides at Des JNloines, Iowa. JNIr. and Mrs. Isaac
have two children, a son and daughter. Verna JNIalvina, who was
born on the 17th of JNIarch, 1893, married Joseph Daugherty, a son of
James and ISIary Daugherty, of Denver township, and an efficient
young farmer of that township. To this union has been born a daugh-
ter, Neva, whose birth occurred on the 9th of January, 1913. Ernest,
who was born on the 1st of January, 1898, is still at home.
JNIr. Isaac supports the progressive party where national issues
are at stake but at local elections votes independently. He belongs
to the United Brethren church at Bethel, Denver township, and is
identified with the ]\Iaccabees. He discharges to the full all obliga-
tions resting upon him and his many admirable qualities have gained
him the personal friendship of those who have been most closely asso-
ciated with him.
FRED BLAKE, JR.
Fred Blake, Jr., who is manager of the Pioneer market and as
such is well known in the business circles of Hastings, belongs to that
class of enterprising, progressive men whose close application and
energy are the salient features of their growing success. He was born
in Oxford, England, on the 18th of April, 1870, and is a son of Fred
and Emily (Jones) Blake. The family came direct from England
in 1874, settling at Hastings, where the father established a meat
market, which is today the oldest market in years of continuous exist-
ence in the state. The company conducts both a wholesale and retail
business and operates its own slaughterhouse and ice plant. They
have utilized the most modern machinery to carry on the work and
jDrepare and care for their meats and their shipping facilities are
augmented by a private railroad switch which extends to their plant.
The father is today numbered among the oldest business men of
Nebraska and throughout all the years he has borne an enviable repu-
tation for enterprise and diligence in his chosen line.
Fred Blake, Jr., spent his youthful days under the parental roof
and acquired a public school education in Hastings, where practically
his entire life has been passed. He was trained to the business in
which he is now engaged and' which has claimed his attention through-
out the entire period of his connection with commercial interests. As
his ability and experience developed he was intrusted more and more
Si PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
largely with the control of the plant and is now manager, thus having
direct supervision over the labors of ten employes. The business is
one of the important enterprises of its kind in the city and the life
record of ]Mr. Blake has been one of continuous activity, in which has
been accorded due recognition of labor, so that he is today numbered
among the substantial citizens of Adams county.
On the 12th of September, 1905, occurred the marriage of JNlr.
Blake and JSIiss Elizabeth Colby, a daughter of George W. and Addie
Colbj\ They have two children, JNIary Jane and Adeline. The re-
ligious faith of the family is that of the JMetliodist church, to which
they generously contribute and to the teachings of which they loyally
adhere. JNIr. Blake is a socialist in his political views and fraternally
is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Eagles. His has
been an active and useful life crowned with a substantial measure of
success and he is now not onlj^ one of the owners of the Pioneer meat
market but is also the owner of farm lands in the state and is greatly
interested in the development of city and state, never faltering in his
allegiance to those interests which have constituted directly resultant
factors in public progress and improvement.
FRANCIS NAULTEUS, M. D.
Dr. Francis Naulteus, a well known representative of the medi-
cal profession in central Nebraska, practicing in Hastings, was born
in Prussia on the 8th of October, 183.5. Although he has now
passed the eightieth milestone on life's journey, he still remains active
in his chosen life Avork and is specializing in the treatment of dis-
eases of the eye, ear, nose and throat and has one of the best equipped
offices for the practice of his specialty in Nebraska. His parents,
Frederick Francis and Theresa (Wahnschaft) Naulteus, Avere also
natives of Prussia, but the father died at the age of fifty-six years,
while the mother passed away at the age of sixty. He served in the
army and he studied for the position of head forester. He spent his
entire life in the forests, acting as inspector for many years, having
an excellent position in the government employ. He had a fine home
and Avas most comfortably situated.
After acquiring his elementary education Dr. Francis Naulteus
continued his studies in the gymnasium at jNIecklenburg, Saxony,
and in the University of Halle. He studied medicine at Heidelberg
and at Wurzburg and won his professional degree at Leyden, Hoi-
])R. FRANCIS NAULTEUS
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY S7
land. He afterward took post-graduate work in 1886 and 1887 at
Berlin, specializing in the treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose
and throat. He entered upon his military career in 1857 and after
a year's service with the volunteers became a lieutenant of the
Twenty-seventh Regiment of JNIecklenburg Infantry in 1859. In
1864. he served with the Prussian troops against Denmark and in
1866 with the Prussians against Austria. In the former war he was
wounded in the leg and in the war with Austria was wounded in the
knee. He did not lay off from duty, however, but, his wounds having
been bandaged, kept on with the army. On the 2d of July, 1866, in
recognition of his bravery, he was advanced to the rank of captain.
Some years before this, or in 1857, he had served for six months in the
hospital service and from 1866 until 1870 he was military physician
with the rank of captain.
In the latter year Dr. Naulteus came to the United States, land-
ing at New York. In 1873 he settled in New Orleans and later
removed to Council Bluffs, where he engaged in the practice of medi-
cine and surgery until 1878, during which period he served as examin-
ing surgeon for the pension board and for the Berkshire Life
Insurance Company. While in Toledo, Ohio, in 1872 he was natural-
ized and has ever been a most loyal American citizen.
On the 30th of April, 1878, Dr. Naulteus came to Hastings to
recuperate from a four weeks' siege of diphtheria which had oc-
curred in Council Bluffs. He had slept only two hours in four weeks
and his health was badly broken under the strain. Pleased with
Hastings, he decided to locate here and has since remained save for
the years 1886 and 1887, which he spent in post-graduate work in
Berlin. When he removed to Hastings it contained a population of
about three hundred people. There were no sidewalks and no improve-
ments of any noticeable nature. About one-third of the population
were thieves or robbers and everyone carried a gun for self-protection.
He here entered upon the practice of his profession and has main-
tained a foremost place in the ranks of the medical fraternity of cen-
tral Nebraska. He does not believe in operations except in extreme
cases, and in two hundred and fourteen appendicitis cases which he
has treated since 1904 he has never felt it necessary to operate in a
single instance. He has always been a thorough student and has
done a great amount of research work. He is the avithor of a INIedi-
cal Compendium and has written considerable for tlie medical press.
In 1859 Dr. Naulteus was united in marriage to INIiss Fredericka
Hesse, a native of Prussia Avhose father was a whiskey manufacturer
of Germany. She passed away in 1903, at the age of sixty-seven
88 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
years, leaving a son, Alfred Francis, who is a graduate of the Col-
lege of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, resides at Dead-
wood, South Dakota, is married and has two children. On the 6th
of Aug-ust, 1904., Dr. Naulteus was again married, his second union
being with INIiss Emma Weitstein, who died the same year. For his
third wife he chose JNIiss Julia Budnek, by whom he has a son, Francis
William Armin. Her father served as a soldier in the German anny
and after emigrating to the United States became an agriculturist of
Crete, Nebraska.
Dr. Naulteus has had no political aspirations and has filled no
public offices. His religious belief is that of the Catholic church.
He belongs to the Sons of Herman, which he aided in organizing,
and he is Avell known in IMasonic circles, having taken the degrees of
the blue lodge, the Royal Arch chapter, the Royal and Select INIas-
ters, the Knights Templar and the Consistory. He holds member-
ship also with the German Veterans and tlie German Landwehr
Verein, which he aided in organizing and of which he was captain for
four years. His is indeed a notable career. Few men of his j^ears
are as active, but he has ever kept alert and in touch with the prog-
ress of the times and is yet giving out of the rich stores of his wisdom
and experience for the benefit of others.
EDWARD J. BOULTON.
Edward J. Boulton is the owner of one of the fine farm properties
of Juniata township. His place is a beautiful one, with all modern
equipment and giving every evidence of the careful and continued
supervision of an owner who is both j^ractical and progressive. He
ranks with the representative agriculturists of this district and has
been a valued citizen here for twelve years. He was born in Han-
cock, IMichigan, on the 9th of August, 1873, a son of John and INIary
Anne (Adams) Boulton, both of whom were natives of England,
where thej^ remained until after their marriage. They then came to
the United States and after living in ISIichigan for a number of years
removed to Nebraska in 1879, the father ixn-chasing railroad land
near Juniata. His attention was there given to general agricultural
pursuits until about sixteen years ago, when he retired from active
business life and took up his abode in Juniata, where he passed away
eight years ago, having for tAvo years survived his wife. In their
family were eight children, as follows: John, who is a resident of
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 89
Kenesaw, Nebraska ; Alice, who is the wife of T. W. McDonald and
lives in Michigan; George and Mary, both of whom are deceased;
Kitty, the wife of S. O. VandrefF, of Arapahoe, Nebraska; Harriet,
who has jDassed away; Sarah, who gave her hand in marriage to
W. J. Pedersen, of Juniata township; and Edward J., of this review.
The last named acquired a common school education and remained
with his father until twenty-five years of age. Twelve years ago he
took up his abode ujoon the farm which is now his home. It is situated
on section 11, Juniata townshijj, and is one of the most beautiful and
attractive places of the district. He has erected a large and com-
modious residence built in modern style of architecture, has also built
a big barn, a silo and a hog and chicken house. In fact there is every
modern equipment upon his place, including the latest improved
machinery, and he has one hundred and twenty-two acres of rich and
IJroductive land which he devotes to general farming, his labors annu-
ally producing good crops. In addition to his home interests he is a
member of the Farmers Elevator Company of Juniata.
In 1901 JNIr. Boulton Avas united in marriage to JNIiss Elva Whit-
ing, a daughter of Thomas G. Whiting. They have one son, Harry,
who is attending school. ]Mr. Boulton exercises his right of franchise
in support of the men and measures of the republican party and he
and his Avife are consistent members of the INIethodist Episcopal
church, guiding their lives by its teachings. During the period of his
residence in the state he has gained a wide acquaintance and the sub-
stantial qualities which he has displayed have established him firmly
in the warm regard and goodwill of all who know him.
CHARLES M. HARE.
Among the up-to-date and energetic young business men of Kene-
saw who are doing nnich to promote the commercial growth and
expansion of the town is C. M. Hare, the proprietor of the Kenesaw
Smoke House. He deals in liigh grade tobacco, cigars and candy and
also has three good pool tables, and the high standard whicli he main-
tains is indicated by the fact that his patrons are among the best people
of tlie town. He was born upon a farm in Armstrong county, Penn-
sylvania, on tlie 18th of August, 1887, and is a son of Daniel and
Malinda (McLaughlin) Hare, also natives of the Keystone state.
The father died there in 1908 but the mother is still living and now
makes her home in Prosser, Nebraska. In their family were four
90 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
sons and four daughters of whom one son and one daughter are
deceased.
Charles M. Hare grew to manhood in Adams county, Nebraska,
and received his education in the country schools near Prosser. For
a time he engaged in farming west of Prosser, after which he ran a
dray line in Ivenesaw, but on the 15th of July, 1915, purchased the
Ivenesaw Smoke House, which he has since successfully conducted.
He carries a fine line of tobacco, cigars and candy, and his place is
equijjped with three good pool tables. He is accorded a large and
representative patronage and is recognized as one of the leading busi-
ness men of the town.
JMr. Hare was married in jNIay, 1910, to Miss Louisa Garska, and
they have a son, Elmer, whose birth occurred on the 14th of October,
1912. jNIr. Hare is a supporter of the democratic party and takes the
interest of a good citizen in public affairs although not an aspirant
for office. Fraternally he is identified with the Ancient Order of
United Workmen, and his religious faith is indicated in the fact that
he is a member of the JNIethodist Episcopal church. He is always
willing to cooperate in jDrojects calculated to advance the interests of
his community along moral, commercial and civic lines, and he holds
the sincere resjDect and the high esteem of all who have been associated
with him. Although he is a young man and he has only been engaged
in his present business for less than a year, he has proved his ability
and business acumen and his continued success is assiu"ed.
COXRAD GROTHEN.
Conrad Grothen, who owns eight hundred acres of excellent land,
ranks as one of the most successful farmers of Adams county, and
his home farm of four hundred acres on section 30, Denver township,
is one of the best improved places in its locality. A native of Ger-
many, he was born in 1866 of the marriage of Diedrich and INIargaret
(Ehlers) Grothen. The father died when our subject was four years
old and the mother subsequently married John Hofer, who also passed
away in the fatherland. Mr. Grothen of this review and others of
the family came to the United States about 1879 and in 1881 the
mother and the three youngest children also emigTated to the United
States. By her two marriages she had eleven children and she now
resides with a daughter in Aurora, Illinois.
Conrad Grothen attended the public schools in his nati^•e land
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 91
until he was about fourteen years of age, when he came to the United
States to seek his fortune. He first located in Bureau county, Illinois,
and for a number of years worked as a farm hand but in 1892 he
decided to remove farther west and came to Adams county, Nebraska.
^Vhile working for others he carefully saved his monej^ and accumu-
lated sufficient capital to jjurchase a quarter section of land in Denver
townsliip, which constitutes a part of his present home farm. His
thorough knowledge of all phases of farm Avork, his energy and good
judgment enabled him to prosper from the beginning and he has
increased his holdings from time to time until he now owns four hun-
di-ed acres on section 30, Denver township, and an additional four
hundred acres in other jjarts of the county. His land is in a high
state of cultivation and yields large crojjs annually. He operates his
home farm and part of his other holdings and rents the remainder of
his land. His principal crop is wheat but he also grows corn, oats and
alfalfa and gives some attention to raising graded cattle, hogs and
horses. With the exception of two small buildings he has made all of
the improvements upon his farm and he keeps everything about the
place in excellent condition. His residence is commodious and at-
tractive and the barns and other outbuildings are large and well
adapted to their purposes.
Mr. Grothen was married in 1892 to JNIiss Amelia A. Gross, a
native of Bureau county, Illinois, and a daughter of Nicholas and
Elizabeth (Stamberger) Gross, who engaged in farming in that
county but who are now deceased. INIr. and ]Mrs. Grothen are the
parents of seven children, namely: Elmer, who was born IMarch 10,
1893, and is assisting with the Avork of the home farm; Arthur, born
December 14, 1896, who is also assisting his father; George, who was
born JMay 10, 1899; Walter, INIay 24, 1902; Flora, INIarch 15, 1904;
Henry, October 23, 1907; and INIartha, JMay 21, 1909.
JSIr. Grothen is independent in politics, voting for the man rather
than the party. He has always taken the keenest interest in every-
thing relating to the general public welfare and his abilitj^ and public-
spirit have been recognized by his fellow citizens, who have elected him
to the office of justice of the j^eace. He was one of tlie leaders in the
organization of the Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran churcli in Den-
ver township, in the work of which lie and his wife take an active part.
He is not only one of the men of wealth in his county but he is also
one of its most public-spirited citizens and personally he is held in
warm regard. His genial nature and his consideration for the rights
of others have gained him the friendship of those with ^hom he has
been associated and his integrity has always been above question. He
92 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
came to this county as a poor boy but although he had no capital, no
influential friends and did not understand the customs of the country,
he was determined to gain success and aj^plied himself energetically
to the work which he found to do. His industry and perseverance
liave been richly rewarded and liis career indicates what industry and
sound judgment may accomplish.
HENRY C. HOBROCK.
Henrj^ C. Hobrock is successfully engaged in farming on section
35, Highland township, and has made good improvements upon his
place, Avhich is in a high state of development. He was born in JNIere-
dosia, Illinois, on the 1st of February, 1867, a son of Herman and
Eliza (Krems) Hobrock. The father was born in Hanover, Ger-
many, but removed to America with his parents, who settled at Beards-
town, Illinois, when he was fourteen j^ears of age. There he grew to
manhood and in 1866 was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Krems, a
native of that town and a daughter of Henrj^ Krems. JNIr. Hobrock
engaged in farming and accumulated a competence, which enables
him to live retired in Hastings. His wife also survives. They be-
came the parents of six children who grew to maturity, those besides
our subject being: F. W., a resident of Hastings; W. C, who is
living in Lincoln; Carrie, the wife of F. H. Kilver, of Denver, Colo-
rado; Emma, who married Charles Rolfe, of Alma, JNIissouri; and
Anna, now Mrs. Henry Kilver, of Bluffs, Illinois.
Henrj^ C. Hobrock was reared in his native town but when twenty
3'ears of age accompanied his parents to Bluffs, Illinois. He remained
at home until he was twentj^-four years old, giving his father the benefit
of his labor. On beginning his independent career he determined to
follow the occupation of farming, witli which he was thoroughly
familiar, and rented his father's farm, which he operated on his own
account for some time. He then purchased a farm in that locahty
and concentrated his energies uj^on its cultivation and development
until the spring of 1907, when he sold and removed to Adams county,
Nebraska. He had purcliased his present farm of one hundred and
sixty acres on section 35, Highland township, two years previously
and on removing to this county at once took up his residence upon
that place. He does general farming, growing wheat, corn, oats and
alfalfa and raising stock for his own use. Although all of the build-
ings upon the farm were there when it came into his possession he has
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 93
improved it in other ways and keeps everything in excellent condition.
He is at once jjraetical and progressive and his industry and good
management enable him to gain a gratifying financial return from
his land.
Mr. Hobrock was married in 1891, when twenty-four years of
age, to Miss Lizzie Finigsmier, a daughter of Henry and Mary
Finigsmier, of JNIeredosia, Illinois. She passed away within a year
of her marriage and on the 12th of JNIarch, 1896, JNIr. Hobrock wedded
IMiss Louisa JNIarsh, a daughter of Henry and Clara (Sheuter)
Marsh, also residents of JNIeredosia. Following the marriage of their
daughter to JNIr. Hobrock, however, they removed to Bluffs, Illinois.
JNIr. and JNIrs. Hobrock have four children, namely: jNIabel E., who
was born JNIarch 2, 1897, and is at home; Harvey H., who was born on
the 20th of February, 1899; Elmer H., born April 14, 1901; and
Helen JNI., whose birth occurred on the 16th of February, 1911.
JNIr. Hobrock is a stalwart republican and takes a commendable
interest in everything affecting the public welfare. He attends the
Lutheran church at Hastings, to the support of which he contributes.
He possesses marked jjublic si^irit and no movement for the advance-
ment of his community lacks his hearty cooperation. He is respected
for his ability and genuine worth and his personal friends are many.
JOSEPH PITTZ.
Joseph Pittz, who owns a fine farm in Roseland township, has
made many excellent improvements thereon and is especially proud
of his grove, which is one of the best in the county. He was born in
the grand duchy of Luxemburg on the 30th of April, 184-5, of the
marriage of Nicholas and Margaret (Schlemes) Pittz, who passed
their entire lives in that country. They were the parents of seven
children, namely: John, who when last heard from was residing in
Germany; John, deceased; INIathias, a resident of Germany; Joseph;
Anna, deceased; Elizabeth; and Bernard, who is living in Gernianj'.
Joseph Pittz received his education in the public schools of Lux-
emburg and remained in that country until 1882, when he emigrated
to the United States. He at once made his way to Nebraska and pur-
chased land on section 6, Roseland township, Adams comity, which
he has since operated, although while a resident of Luxemburg he
followed the carpenter's trade. He has carried on general farming,
finding that the raising of both grain and stock is more profitable
94 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
than specializing in either. The buildings on his farm are substantial
and well designed and everj-thing is kept in good condition and he has
a fine equipment of up-to-date machinerj-. He has given much atten-
tion to the development of his grove, which consists of over five thou-
sand box elder and ash trees. He has now retired from the active
work of the fields and his farm, which comprises one hundred and
sixty acres of good land, is operated by his son.
JNIr. Pittz was married in 1873 to ^liss Anna Snyder and they
became the parents of seven children, namely: Mary, the wife of
Phillip Knapp, of INIadison county, Nebraska; JNIathias, who is farm-
ing in Juniata township ; Peter, who resides near Bladen, Nebraska ;
Catherine, the wife of Herman Fischer, of Roseland township ; John,
who is operating the home place; JNIaggie, the wife of Nick Arens-
dorf, who resides in Silver Lake township; and Anna, who married
J. P. jNIangers, of Roseland toAvnship. The wife and mother passed
awa}^ in 1915 and is buried in Assumption.
Mr. Pittz was formerly a deniocra>t in politics but is now independ-
ent, casting his ballot for the man rather than the party. He is a
member of the Assumption Catholic church, to which his wife also
belonged, and contributes to its support. He has concentrated his
energies upon agricultural pursuits and has won a measure of pros-
perity that now enables him to live retired and enjoy a period of
leisure. He has many friends throughout the county and all who know
him respect him highly.
FRANCIS INIARION DENMAN.
Francis Marion Denman, a well known citizen of Kenesaw,
Nebraska, eminently deserves classification among those self-made
men who have distinguished themselves for their ability to master
the opposing forces of life and to wrest from fate a large measure of
success and an honorable name. His early environment was such
as has ever fostered the spirit of personal independence and self-reli-
ance, which have played so large a part in the upbuilding of the
nation. His birth occurred on a farm in JNIiami county, Ohio, on the
12th of February, 1839, and his parents were Abraham and Marga-
ret (Stickles) Denman, who were born in Hamilton county, Ohio,
where they were reared and married. Both died in their native state
and their passing was deeply regi*etted by their many warm friends.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 97
They were devout Christians and exemplified the sincerity of their
faith in their daily lives.
Francis M. Denman was reared under the parental roof and much
of his time was devoted to farm work although he received a limited
country school education. When twenty-two years of age he left home
and went to Illinois, where on the 5th of October, 1861, he enlisted in
Company I, Fifty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, as a private.
His command was assigned to the Army of the Tennessee and he
took part in the following engagements : Shiloh, the siege of Corinth,
Chickasaw Bayou, Russell House, Arkansas Post, Hains Bluffs,
Champion's Hill, the siege of Vicksburg, the relief of Knoxville, the
siege of Jackson, Kenesaw jNIountain, INIissionary Ridge, Fort
]\IcAllister, Savannah, Clinton, the siege of Atlanta, Jonesboro,
Columbia and Bentonville. He was also with Sherman on his
famous march to the sea and northward through the Carolinas. Ke
was made fourth sergeant on the 1st of November, 1864, and served
as such with much credit to himself until the regiment was mustered
out at Little Rock, Arkansas, on the 14th of August, 1865. During
the siege of Atlanta he was wounded in the left leg on the 22d of
July, 1864, but escajjed further injury. His regiment made an
unusual record, traveling eleven thousand miles and marching over
three thousand miles. He marched in the Grand Review at Washing-
ton, D. C, and while there visited the tombs of George and INIartha
Wasliington. He is an ardent admirer of Generals Sherman and
Grant, under whom he served, and he was for some time under the
command of General Halleck. He has a number of army relics but
jirizes most a cake of genuine army hardtack, which he has had
framed.
Following his honorable discharge from the army at the close of
hostilities ]\Ir. Denman returned to his old home in Ohio, where he
farmed until the spring of 1866, when he again went to Illinois. He
was married there and followed agricultural pursuits in that state
for fourteen years, but on the 20th of February, 1880, became a
resident of Fillmore countj^ Nebraska, where he engaged in farming
for twentj'-two years. He devoted much time and thought as well
as monej' to the development of his fine farm of two hundred and
forty acres, which he made one of the best farms in Fillmore county.
In 1902 he retired from active life and removed to Bruning, where
he interested himself in various movements for the advancement of
the communit}'. In 1909 he came to Kenesaw, where he has since
lived, enjoying the fruits of his former labor. He owns the northeast
quarter of section 13, township 2, range 3, Jefferson county,
98 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Nebraska, and the southeast quarter of section 36, township 9, range
13, west, Buffalo county, on which the town of Denman is laid out.
He derives a gratifying income from his holdings and now ranks
among the men of affluence residing in Adams county.
JNlr. Denman was married in Illinois, in 1867, to INliss Julia A.
]\IcKnight, who was born in Ohio, near Piqua, on the 2d of November,
1846, a daughter of John and JNIartha (Giffin) JNIcKnight. Her par-
ents were born in Ohio, where they were reared and married, and the
father passed away in JNIason county, Illinois, at the age of sixty-five
years. The mother is also deceased. JNIr. and Mrs. Denman have
iiad four children : Albert J. ; Ella, the wife of E. Cook, of Hastings ;
jNIartha B., the wife of Samuel Wells, of Hall county, Nebraska;
and John F., deceased.
Mr. Denman cast his first ballot for Stephen A. Douglas for
president in 1860 and has always taken a keen interest in public affairs.
His fitness for office has been recognized and while living in Bruning
he served on the town board and on the school board and while a resi-
dent of Fillmore county was for three years county supervisor. He
votes independently, preferring to follow his own judgment rather
than the dictates of a party leader. His religious faith is that of the
Presbyterian church,, in which he holds the office of elder, and fra-
ternally he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The
success which he has gained in spite of the fact that he began his
career empty-handed is indisputable proof of his energj' and his sound
judgment, and he has been so straightforward and upright in all of
his business transactions that there has never been the slightest ques-
tion as to his integrity. He is highly respected for his ability and
sterling qualities of character and his pleasing personality has gained
him the Avarm regard of those who have been closely associated with
him.
FRANK A. BLOOM.
Frank A. Bloom, conducting a poolroom in Hastings and also
dealing in cigars and tobacco, was born in New York city on the 15th
of September, 1870, a son of Charles and Fanny Bloom. The father
was a speculator and both he and his wife are now deceased.
Frank A. Bloom obtained his education in the public schools of
Ottumwa, Iowa, to which city his parents removed during his boy-
hood days. When he had mastered the branches of learning therein
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 99
taught he took up the business of cigar manufacturing and in the fall
of 1888 came to Hastings. For a year and a half he worked at his
trade in a factory and then became foreman, in which position he con-
tinued until 1900. Desirous of engaging in business on his own
account, he had carefully saved his earnings until his industry and
economical exi^enditures had enabled him to become the possessor of
some capital. He then joined John W. Zink and they established the
Evans Bloom Cigar Company. After a time Mr. Zink sold his interest
to Mr. Evans, while JNIr. Bloom continued his active interest in the
business until 1910. In that year he purcliased his present establish-
ment, although he still remains a stockholder in the cigar factory.
The principal brands of cigars made by the firm are the High Alti-
tude in four sizes of ten cent cigars, the Very Best and the Good
Cheer. His poolroom is a well appointed establishment liberally
I^atronized. Everything is conducted according to high standards and
the success which has come to him is well merited.
In 1900 Mr. Bloom was united in marriage to JNIiss JNIoUie E.
Butler, and, while they have no children of their own, they are rearing
an adopted daughter, Nellie Butler. In religious faith Mr. Bloom
and his wife hold to the Lutheran church and he also belongs to the
Knights of Pythias and to the Fraternal Order of Eagles. In politics
he is a democrat, believing in the efficiency of the party principles as
factors in good government, but he does not seek nor desire office and
concentrates his efforts upon the development of his business, know-
ing that close application and unfaltering energy are among the
strongest elements of success.
JOHN F. FABER.
John F. Faber, who is now residing at Hastings, has engaged in
farming for many years and has gained a place among the most effi-
cient agriculturists of the county. He was born in New York, and is
a son of Jacob Faber, a native of Germany, who was married in 1866
to Johanna Faber, a cousin, and in 18G7 emigrated with his wife to
the United States, settling in New York.
John F. Faber attended the district schools in his native state and
also devoted much of his time during liis boyhood and youth to assist-
ing his father with the farm work. On beginning his independent
career he determined to follow the occupation to which he had been
reared and has never had occasion to regret his choice of a life work.
100 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
He came to Adams countj^ and became the owner of a good farm on
section 7, township 5, range 12. He at once tm*ned his attention to
its development and ojjeration and it is now one of the best improved
i^laces in its locaHt)^ He raises both grain and stock and receives a
good income from his land.
In 1896 INIr. Faber was married at Carlton, Nebraska, to Miss
Anna M. Koinzan, a daughter of Frederick Koinzan, of that place.
Nine children, all of whom are at home, have been born to this union,
namely : Emil, Adolph, Emma, Elsa, Ella, John, Goldie, Victor and
Rudolph.
Mr. Faber belongs to the Lutheran church and can be depended
upon to further movements seeking the moral advancement of his
community. Since taking up his residence here he has gained many
friends and his genuine worth is indicated bj' the fact that those Avho
have been most closelj' associated with him hold him in the highest
esteem.
G. N. COON.
G. N. Coon is at the head of the Coon Lumber Company and as
such controls an extensive trade in lumber and fviel, operating at
Juniata and various other points. In all he undertakes he displays
sound judgment and the spirit of enterprise that characterizes the
west. He was born in Hamilton county, near Avirora, Nebraska,
April 3, 1874, and is a son of Christopher C. and JNIary (Kutch)
Coon. The father's birth occurred near Columbus, Ohio, while the
mother is a native either of Indiana or of Iowa. They were married,
however, in Hamilton county, Nebraska, whither they removed with
their parents, the Avedding being celebrated June 24, 1873. IMr. Coon
secured a homestead and followed farming for several years, after
which he turned his attention to carpentering. Both he and his wife
are still residents of Aurora and the former is of Scotch descent,
Avhile the latter is of German lineage. In the family Avere five children,
as folloAvs: G. N., of this review; A. B., Avho is a resident of Aurora,
Nebraska; C. J., Avho lives at New Plymouth, Idaho; INIyrl, a resident
of Aurora, Nebraska ; and OliA^e A., the Avif e of ]M. J. McDougall, of
Aurora, this state.
G. N. Coon pursued his early education in the district schools of
his native county, afterAvard attended the high school of Aurora and
spent one year as a student in the State Normal School at Shenandoah,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY lOi
Iowa. Starting in the business world, he became connected with the
lumber trade at Aurora, being employed at various points until nine
years ago, when he engaged in business for himself at Ehnwood,
Nebraska, Avhere he remained for two years. On the expiration of
that i^eriod he removed to Juniata, where he purchased a lumber and
fuel yard, handling all kinds of lumber and building materials, cement
and coal. In addition to the business at Juniata he has yards at
Kenesaw, Roseland and Ayr, Nebraska, all of these being operated
under the name of the Coon Lvmiber Company. The steps in his
orderly progression are easily discernible and he has constantly
broadened the scope of his activities as opportunity has offered, mak-
ing wise investment of his capital in increase of his business.
In 1898 Mr. Coon was united in marriage to INIiss Sophia S. Hurst,
wlio Avas born near Coifeyville, Kansas, and by whom he has a daugh-
ter, Thelma ]\Iaurine. Both INIr. and ]Mrs. Coon are members of the
]Methodist Episcopal church and he also has membership in the Odd
Fellows lodge at Juniata, the Knights of Pythias lodge at Osceola,
the Workmen's lodge at Kenesaw and also with the Highlanders of
Osceola, exemplifying in his life the beneficent and fraternal spirit
which underlies these organizations. He is a public-spirited citizen,
interested in everything pertaining to the welfare and progress of the
community in which he makes his home, and he has cooperated in
many plans and measures for the general good. Early in liis career
he also learned the lesson that there is no success in life without effort.
The purpose of life is to afford opportunities, and in America these
are presented in turn to everyone who is willing to embrace them.
Humble birth and poverty are no handicap to the American youth,
but opportunities slip away from the sluggard and tauntingly play
before the dreamer, but surrender to the individual with high purpose,
undaunted courage and indefatigable determination. These qualities
Mr. Coon has displayed and therefore occupies his present enviable
position in business circles of Adams county.
HORATIO R. S:\nTH.
Horatio R. Smith, who is successfully operating a farm of one
hundred and sixty acres in Blaine township, was born in Fayette
county, Oliio, on the 27th of January, 1861. His parents, Peter W.
and Ella (Painter) Smith, w^ere both also natives of Ohio, where they
were reared and married. At length they removed to Jasper county.
102 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Iowa, where the father purchased land which he operated for a number
of years. In 1881, however, he came to Adams county, Nebraska.
To him and his wife were born five sons and five daughters, of whom
two daughters and all the sons became residents of Adams county.
Malvern became the wife of Elwood Hickman, but both are now
deceased. Anna, the only living daughter, for a time made her home
in Adams county but is now living in Fayette county, Ohio. Edward
and Charles E. are living in Hastings. Louis is now living in Fayette
county, Ohio, but was formerly a resident of Adams county. Wil-
liam E. is living in Holbrook, Nebraska.
Horatio R. Smith attended the common schools during his boy-
hood and also devoted much time to assisting his father with the farm
work, thus gaining valuable knowledge concerning practical agri-
cultural methods. In 1879 he came to Adams county and for a year
worked for his brother Charles E., who was farming in Blaine town-
ship. In 1880 he began his independent career and has since operated
rented land. He has farmed at different times in Blaine, Zero and
Denver townships and for the past two years has rented one hundred
and sixty acres on section 32, Blaine township. He is successful in
the cultivation of the soil and the care of stock and receives a good
annual income from his labors. He takes pride in keeping every-
thing about the place in good condition and is recognized as an efficient
agriculturist.
In 1887 Mr. Smith was united in marriage to JNIiss Lizzie Roberts,
a daughter of William Roberts, who removed to this county from
Ohio in 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have become the j^arents of six
children, as follows: Earl, who was born on the 22d of INIarch, 1888,
married INIiss Frances Ferguson, a daughter of Frederick Ferguson,
formerljr of Denver township but now farming in Blaine township.
Two children have been born of this union. Charles, Avhose birth
occurred on the 5th of December, 1894, is living in Blue Hill, Ne-
braska. Florence, who was born on the 6th of October, 1897, is at
home. The three youngest children, Carl, born December 6, 1899,
Floyd, born October 2, 1904, and Paul, born February 7, 1907, are all
attending the district school.
j\Ir. Smitli believes that the policies of the republican party are
based upon sound principles of government and supports its candi-
dates at the polls. He served for several years as road overseer and
justice of the peace and made an excellent record in those offices. His
religious allegiance is given to the Methodist church and fraternally
he belongs to the Loyal ISIystic Legion of Hastings, of which he is a
charter member. He began his career empty handed but as the years
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 103
have passed has worked hard and practiced thrift and is now in com-
fortable circumstances. Moreover, he has so ordered his life that he
has Avon the esteem and respect of all who have come into contact with
him and has gained the warm regard of many.
DOEDE SMITH.
Doede Smith is now living retired in Hastings but in former years
was prominently identified with commercial and industrial pursuits,
his business affairs being of a nature that contributed to public prog-
ress as well as to individual benefit. A native of Germany, he was
born on the 7th of January, 1848, and is a son of Engelke and Tomke
( Jansen) Smith, the former a blacksmith by trade.
Doede Smith spent his youthful days in his native country and,
while he did not have unusual opportunities, he attended the public
schools and received thorough training in work that brought to him a
knowledge of the value of industry, perseverance and economy as
factors in the attainment of success. At length he determined to try
his fortune in America and when a young man of nineteen years sailed
for the new world, attracted by the opportunities offered on this side
the Atlantic. It was in 1867 that he came to the United States,
making his waj^ to Pekin, Illinois, where he remained for three years.
In 1870 he went to Lincoln, Nebraska, and soon afterward secured a
homestead claim in Lancaster county. Not a furrow had been turned
nor an imj^rovement made upon that place, but with characteristic
energ}' he began its development. Later he removed to Nebraska
City, where he remained for a year and a half, and on the expiration
of that period took up his abode at Crete, Nebraska, where he took
up the business of plow manufacturing. He also engaged in the
implement business and in merchandising and remained a very prom-
inent and active factor in the industrial and commercial circles of that
city for an extended period. Gradually he worked his way upward,
his success resulting from unfaltering industry and capability. In
1904 he disposed of his business and came to Hastings, where he
erected a beautiful residence, in which he is now living retired, enjoy-
ing a rest that he has truly earned and richly deserves. After coming
to Hastings, however, he purchased an interest in the Polinske Schel-
lak & Company brickyard, but takes no active part in the management
of the business, his investment, however, bringing to him a good finan-
cial return.
104 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
On the 28th of August, 1871, Mr. Smith was united in marriage
to Miss Franke Wilts, a daughter of Frederick and Tetta Wilts, and
their children are: Engelke, now living in Omaha; Tetta, the wife
of William S. Schellak; and Fred D., who is a traveling salesman and
resides in Norfolk, Nebraska. There are also eight grandchildren.
Having lost his first wife, 3Ir. Smith was married again, his second
union being with Sojihie Onken, of Peoria, Illinois. JNIrs. Smith has
been very prominent as a leader among the ladies of Hastings. She
belongs to a family that has been rejjresented here for thirty-four
years and has been closel}^ associated with pubhc interests of the city.
In his political views Mr. Smith is a republican thoroughly informed
concerning the questions and issues of the day. He belongs to the
Ancient Order of United Workmen and both he and his wife are
connected with the Congregational church. He is likewise identified
with the German Congregational Seminary at Crete, of which he was
a trustee for a quarter of a century, while for seven years he has been
president of its board. His interest centers in all those things which
work for the development and upbuilding of the community along
material, intellectual, social and moral lines. He is a representative
of our best type of American manhood and chivalry. Hy persevei*-
ance, determination and honorable effort he has overthrown the
obstacles which barred his path to success and reached the goal of
jjrosperity, while his genuine worth, broad mind and public spirit
have made him a director of public thought and action.
WILLIAM URE NICHOL.
William Ure Nichol, funeral director, conducting business at
Kenesaw, was born at JNIinden, Nebraska, on the 12th of November,
1888, his parents being W. E. and Ida (Ure) Nichol. The father
settled in INIinden in the early '80s and engaged in the hardware and
furniture business until about 1909. Since then he has given his
attention exclusively to the undertaking and to the wall paper busi-
ness. For a long period he has been regarded as one of the most
prominent and active business men of INIinden and is well known
throughout Kearney county.
Reared under the parental roof, William Ure Nichol attended
the INIinden high school and later became a student in JMonmouth
College at INIonmouth, Illinois, whei-e he pursued a four years' clas-
sical course, winning the degree of Bachelor of Arts. From early
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 105
childhood he has been associated with his father in the undertaking
business and was connected with a large undertaking establishment
at Omaha before coming to Kenesaw. He arrived here, however, in
1914 and opened undertaking parlors, since which time he has con-
ducted business as a funeral director and licensed embalmer.
On the 17th of July, 1914, at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mr.
Nichol was married to JNliss ]\Iarguerite Wallace, a daughter of the
Rev. William Wallace, of JMitchell, South Dakota. They are mem-
bers of the Presbyterian church at Kenesaw and occupy an enviable
position in social circles, being accepted wherever true worth and
intelligence are received as passports into good societj'.
GEORGE B. McCOLLAM.
George B. JNIcCollam was successfully engaged in farming for
many years and at the time of his death owned a good farm eiglit
miles northeast of Hastings. He was born in New Philadelphia, Ohio,
on the 18th of January, 1855, and in his early youth accompanied his
parents to the vicinity of Bloomington, Illinois, where they resided
until called by death. The father followed the carpenter's trade and
Avas very successful in that connection.
George B. JNIcCollam received a common school education and
learned the carpenter's trade under his father, whom he assisted until
he was twenty-three years old. He then left home and after residing
for a year in Iowa came to Adams county, Nebraska, in 1879. For a
short time he worked by the month and then rented a farm. Subse-
quently he was joined by his married brother James and they oper-
ated in partnership a rented farm located about eight miles northeast
of Hastings. Following his marriage in 1892 Mv. JNIcCollam of this
]Tview purchased that farm and continued to reside there until called
by death on the 3d of June, 1912. He took great pride in keeping
up his place and added a number of improvements to the farm after
it came into his possession. He followed approved methods in his
work and used up-to-date machinery, thus increasing his efficiency,
and seldom failed to harvest large crops. As he managed his affairs
well he secured a good income from his land and became one of the
prosperous residents of his township.
In 1892 JNIr. JNIcCollam was united in marriage to JNIrs. Emma
(JNIaj-^s) Cook, the widow of Fletcher Cook, of Indiana. By her first
marriage she had a son, Fred Edward, who was born on the 25th of
106 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
November, 1884, and died on the 21st of July, 1905, at the home
of his uncle, David JMays, of this comity. Following the demise of
Mr. Cook his widow removed to Adams county in 1889 and made her
home with her brother David until she became the wife of JNIr. JMc-
Collam. To this union was born a son, George Alvin, whose natal
day was the 8th of February, 1896, and who assists in the operation
of the homestead. JNIrs. JMcCollam's sister Ella, who is the widow of
George Dallas JNIullin, and her daughter Dora are also living on the
home j)lace. JNIrs. JNIcCoUam and her son have kept the farm in a
high state of development and are operating it successfully.
]Mr. JNlcCollam gave his jjolitical allegiance to the democratic party
but was never very active in public affairs. He gained many friends
during the long period of his residence in this county and his memory
is still held in honor.
C. J. VANHOUTEN.
For many years C. J. Vanhouten has been connected with agri-
cultural and banking interests in Adams county. He entered the field
of banking about eighteen years ago and since that time he has con-
ducted the institution now known as the Bank of Juniata. IMr. Van-
houten is a native of Indiana, his birth having occurred near Crown
Point, November 18, 1873, his parents being Jolm R. and Josephine
(Chapman) Vanhouten. The paternal grandfather was a native of
the state of New York and was of Holland extraction. On leaving
the east he resided at different periods in jNIichigan and in Ohio, fol-
lowing the occupation of farming as a life work. John R. Vanhouten
left Indiana M'hen his son C. J. was but nine months old and removed
with his familj' to Nebraska, where he homesteaded four miles west
and four miles south of Juniata. He also secured a tree claim and,
meeting the requirements of the law concerning the acquisition of
jjroperty, secured in time his title to the land. He built thereon a sod
house with a board floor and roof and after proving vip on his claim
he removed to Juniata, where he remained for thirty years, engaging
in the livery business during twenty years of that time. He served
in the Civil Avar as a member of Company E, One Hundred and
Fifty-first Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry under Captain
Aaron W. Lytle. He was a self-made man whose business ability
brought to him all that he enjoyed or won of this world's goods and
his many sterling qualities occasioned his death to be deeply regretted
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 107
when, in 1909, he passed away. His widow survives and made her
home in Juniata until two or three j'ears ago. In the family were five
children : H. J., now living in ^Montana ; C. J., of this review ; F, M.,
a resident of Forest City, Arkansas; R. J., M'ho is in Los Angeles,
California ; and R. L., living in Redlands, California.
C. J. Vanhouten obtained his education in the schools of Juniata,
supplemented by a commercial course. His early youth was spent
upon the home farm and he has always been more or less largely con-
nected with agricultural pursuits. In early manhood he turned his
attention to tilling the soil, purchasing eighty acres of land on section
15, Juniata township, after which he converted the tract into pro-
ductive fields. Eighteen years ago he took up banking in the employ
of the firm of C. R. Jones & Company. They conducted their busi-
ness as a private bank for twentj^ years but afterward reorganized it
as the Bank of Juniata, vmder which name it has since been conducted.
At the time of the reorganization Mr. Vanhouten became a member
of the firm. In 1910 he erected a building for bank purposes and the
institution was installed in its new home. The capital has been doubled
since the organization and the business has ever been conducted upon
a safe, substantial basis that thoroughly protects the interests of de-
positors. ]Mr. Vanhouten also conducts an insurance and real estate
business and the various phases of his activities are constituting fea-
tures in his growing success.
In 1909 JNIr. Vanhouten was married to JNIiss Laura E. Boyd, who
is a member of the IMethodist church, while jNIr. Vanhouten belongs
to the Baptist church, his parents having been instrumental in estab-
lishing the first Baptist church in Juniata. In politics he is independ-
ent, nor has he ever sought political preferment. His chief interest
has been his business and the careful direction of his affairs has
brought to him growing and substantial success.
CHARLES C. LARSEN.
Adams county has been signally favored in the class of men who
have occupied lier public offices, for on the whole they have been men
of public spirit, devoted to the welfare and upbuilding of the district
and faithful, businesslike, prompt and reliable in the discharge of
official duties. Such has been the course of Charles C. Larsen, now
filling the office of county recorder of deeds. He was born in Hol-
stein, Adams county, February 24, 1883, and is a son of Paul C. and
108 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Caroline Larsen, who were farming people. The father came to
Nebraska in the year 1878 and purchased railroad land, after which
he bent his energies to the development of a farm, converting the
wild land into productive fields. , He continued to engage actively in
the work of the farm until 1904, when he put aside business cares.
His wife died in 1903, but he and his daughter still reside upon the
farm, although he has retired from business.
Charles C. Larsen entered the public schools at the usual age and
after mastering the lessons therein taught spent two terms at the
Fremont Normal College. He afterward engaged in teaching, which
l^rofession he followed for nine years in Adams county, proving a
capable educator with ability to impart clearly and readily to others
the knowledge that he had acquired. He was called to official position
in 1912, when he became deputy in the office of the district clerk, thus
serving until the 7th of January, 1914, when he entered upon the
jjosition of countj^ recorder of deeds, to which he had previously been
elected. His jiolitical allegiance has always been given to the demo-
cratic party and he does everything in his power to legitimately further
its success.
On the 30th of August, 1911, Mr. Larsen was united in marriage
to JNIiss Ellen JM. Rothwell, a daughter of James H. Rothwell. In
religious faith the family are Protestants. Fraternally INIr. Larsen
is connected with the Modern Woodmen, with the Royal Highlanders
and with the Odd Fellows. He turns for recreation to fishing and
outdoor life, which he greatly enjoys. He is never remiss in the
duties of citizenship and his devotion to the welfare of his community
is marked. At all times he manifests a progressive spirit in relation
to the public good and his substantial personal traits also endear him
to those with whom he is brought in contact.
JOHN L. KENT.
John L. Kent, of Verona townshii?, has gained a place among the
efficient and well-to-do farmers and stock raisers of the county and is
also entitled to recognition as a veteran of the Civil war. His birth
occurred in Kendall county, Illinois, on the 26th of November, 1842,
and he is a son of James M. and Mary (Ferguson) Kent. His
paternal grandfather, James Pierce Kent, was born in Virginia in
178.5, and his wife was also a native of that state. James JNI. Kent
was born in Rockbridge county, Virginia, but in young manhood
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY m>
removed to Ohio, where he was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Ferguson, a native of that state. In October, 1842, they removed to
Kendall county, Illinois, and ten years later went to Cedar county,
Iowa. They squatted on land which they subsequently purchased for
a dollar and a quarter per acre and resided upon their farm until called
by death. In early manhood the father followed the tailor's trade
but Avhen thirty years of age turned his attention to farming, to which
he devoted the remainder of his life. He was very active in public
affairs and served for three terms as a member of the Iowa state
senate. His death occurred on the 20th of August, 1896, and that of
his wife on the 28th of February, 1888. To them were born nine
children, as follows: Keziah F., the wife of C. G. Brink, of Craw-
ford count}^ Iowa; Laura, deceased; John L.; James INI., of Kene-
saw, Nebraska; W. O., who is living in Oakwood, Oklahoma; T. B.,
of Oxford Junction, Iowa; N. H., of Clarence, Cedar county, Iowa;
Mary E., who is the wife of Edwin Elijah, of Clarence; and Charles
H., who is living in JNIarion, Linn county, Iowa.
John L. Kent received a good common school education in Illinois
and also gained much valuable training in agriculture during his boy-
hood and youth. On the 5th of August, 1862, he answered his
country's call for volunteers, enlisting in Company B, Twenty-fourth
Iowa \^olunteer Infantry, for three years, or during the war, but was
discharged on the 31st of July, 1864, on account of wounds received
in the service. At the battle of Port Gibson he A\as Avounded in the
ankle and at the battle of INIansfield his arm was shattered above the
elbow. It was two years before he was able to use it at all and as a
result of the wound it is four inches shorter than the other. He par-
ticipated in the battles of Port Gibson, Raymond and Champion's
Hill, was in the siege of Vicksburg and in the battle at Jackson,
Mississippi. He then returned to Vicksburg and from that point
went down the IMississij)]:)! to New Orleans and up the Red river,
taking part in the engagement at Carrion Crow bayou. He then
returned to New Orleans but subsequently again went up the Red
river and fought in the battle of JNIansfield, where he was wounded.
He lield the rank of a non-commissioned officer, and his coolness and
gallantry gained him the commendation of his superiors.
After receiving his discharge from the army on account of dis-
abilitj' ISIr. Kent returned to Cedar county, Iowa, and remained there
until June, 1873, when he came to Adams county, Nebraska, and
homesteaded land on section 30, Verona toAvnship. He brought bis
place to a high state of cultivation and made many excellent improve-
ments thereon but in 1890 sold out and purchased his present farm
no PAST AND PRESEXT OF ADAMS COUNTY
on section 28, Verona township. The farm comprises a quarter section
of productive land and its value has been enhanced by the erection of
commodious and substantial buildings. JNIr. Kent breeds jjure blooded
Poland China hogs and shorthorn cattle and also engages in raising
full blooded Phaiiouth Rock chickens. His labors have been re-
warded by a substantial income and he is now in very comfortable
circumstances.
In 1867 occurred the marriage of JNIr. Kent and Miss INIaggie E.
KemjJ, who j)assed away in 1879. To them were born seven children,
namel}': John G., a resident of Nampa, Idaho; Alice, the wife of
L. M. Hayes, of Nampa; Laura C, who married D. W. JMiles, of
Cherry county, Nebraska; Edward L., who is farming near the home
place; J. D., of Lake Mills, Iowa; O. C, who is farming near our
subject; and Keziah JNI., the wife of T. W. Mays, of Kenesaw. In
1881 Mr. Kent was again married, Miss Sara A. Trueman becoming
his wife. Their four children are: Amelia L., the wife of G. H.
Teeple, of Floyd county, Iowa ; Ella L., who married Harry Graham,
of Hastings, Nebraska ; George Arthur, of Grant county, Nebraska ;
and Minnie K., the wife of William Geddes, of Prosser, Nebraska.
Mr. Kent has sujiported the republican part^^ since age conferred
upon him the right of franchise and does all in his power to secure its
victory at the polls. For forty years he has acceptably filled the
office of school director and for seven years he was assessor. He was
reared in the Methodist Eiiiscojial church, which he still attends and
supports. He is identified with the Grand Army post at Juniata and
thus keej^s in touch with his comrades in blue. In all the relations of
life he has measured up to high standards and enjoys the confidence
and warm regard of his fellow citizens.
WILLIAM S. SCHELLAK.
Death seldom carries with it such a sense of personal bereavement
to so many as it did when William S. Schellak was called from this
life on the 11th of November, 1915. He had been a popular business
man of Hastings for more than two decades and was the possessor of
qualities which rendered him popular in the various circles in which
he moved. A native of Dayton, Ohio, he was born in 1870 and was a
son of INIartin Schellak, a prominent early settler of Adams county.
He arrived in this county in 1882, removing from Dayton, Ohio, and
for years William S. Schellak bore his part in the work of business
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY lU
development in Hastings. His rise in business circles was rapid. He
seemed to knoAv just when and where and how to put forth effort to
produce the greatest possible results and seemed to have realized at
any one point of his career the possibility for successful accomplish-
ment at that point. He became a leading figure in manufacturing
circles, becoming connected with the Polenske & Schellak Brick Com-
pany and also with the Polenske Brothers Brick Company. He was
a most progressive business man, realizing and utilizing opportunities,
and whatever he undertook proved of benefit and value to the com-
munity as well as a source of individual success. In the late '90s he
was for some time manager of the Kerr opera house.
In 1901 ]Mr. Schellak was united in marriage to ]Miss Tetta Smith,
a daughter of Doede Smith, and they became the parents of two
children, Evelyn and Wilhelmina, aged respectively twelve and nine
years. JMr. Schellak belonged to the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the
Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Sons of Herman. He
was a man of vmfailing good nature which made him lovable in his
home, in business and in club circles. He was alwaj^s ready to respond
with a cheery word or warm smile and he was one of those who shed
around him much of life's sunshine. Death came upon him without
a moment's warning and j^roved a shock to the entire communitj% for
he was very popular and his sudden taking oiF was a matter of the
deepest regret to all who knew him and especially to those of his own
household, where he was known as a devoted husband and father.
R. L. SARIN.
R. L. Sabin, president and manager of the Queen City Laundry
of Hastings, has conducted liis present business since 1903 and intel-
ligentlj' directed effort is bringing to him growing success. He is one
of Nebraska's native sons, his birth having occurred in Beatrice on
the 17th of November, 1878, a son of R. W. and Emma L. Sabin.
The father is an attorney and in 1870 came with the family to
Nebraska, where he won distinction as a member of the bar. He
served as city attorney, as county attorney and for some years filled
the office of district attorney. Both he and his wife are still living
and he yet reinains active in professional circles.
R. L. Sabin completed his public school education by graduation
from the high school of Beatrice, Nebraska, after which he entered
the State University and pursued the electrical engineering course.
112 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
He was thus well qualified by liberal education for life's practical and
responsible duties. He then became connected with F. J. Kimball
&L Co. in the laundry business and began operating this plant, of
which he had charge for four years. On the 27th of JNIarch, 1903, he
purchased the business, which he reoi'ganized. He was also at one
time the owner of a half interest in Shipley's Laundry at Sioux Falls,
South Dakota, and operated that plant. He is likewise proprietor
of the laundry business at Grand Island conducted under the name of
the ]Model Laundry Company. At his Hastings plant he employs
thirty jaeople and utilizes two automobiles in the collection and deliv-
ery of laundry. He employs the latest improved processes, uses the
best machinery and maintains the highest standard of excellence in
the work. These points, added to his thoroughly reliable business
methods, have brought him a constantly increasing patronage and
made the enterprise one of the profitable industrial concerns of the
city.
On the 15th of December, 1906, ]Mr. Sabin was united in marriage
to Miss Anna H. Speich, a daughter of Emanuel Speich, of Wash-
ington, D. C. They have one child, Hilbert Speich. Mr. Sabin
holds the Protestant faith and in politics is a republican. Fraternally
he is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and he
also belongs to the Commercial Club and to the State Laundrj^ Asso-
ciation. He is fond of outdoor life and in that way takes his recrea-
tion, thus finding relief from onerous business cares which are con-
stantly growing with the increase of his patronage. He is at all times
alert, wide-awake and enterprising, ready for an}' emergencj^ and a
dependable man under any circumstances and in every relation.
JOHN P. DUNCAN
John P. Duncan has resided in Roseland since 1887 and has had
a part in the business develojiment of tlie town. For a number of
years he -was engaged in the grain, coal and live-stock business but
is now living retired. His birth occurred in Elgin, Illinois, on the
14th of September, 1845, and his parents M-ere Patrick William and
Bridget (Kingsley) Duncan, the former born in County IMonaghan,
Ireland, and the latter in County Wexford. They Avere married,
however, in the vicinity of Hartford, Connecticut, about 1843 and
in the following j^ear removed to Chicago, whence they Avent to Elgin,
Illinois. The father, Avho was a stonemason, worked on the con-
JOHN P. DUNCAX
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 115
struction of the Illinois Central Railroad and after leaving the employ
of that corporation continued to follow his trade for some time. He
also farmed near Elgin for a few years hut later went to Savanna,
Illinois, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits and also worked
as a stonemason. In 1870 he decided to try his fortune still farther
west and came to Adams county, Nebraska, homesteading on section
14, Silver Lake township. That place remained his home until 1879,
when he took up his residence in Roseland, where he died about 1900
and where he is buried. He was a man of marked public spirit and
held the esteem of his fellow citizens in full measure. He lost his
fu-st wife when their only child, our subject, was but six months old
and subsequently he married Ellen JNIcGrath, by whom he had the
following children: William F., a resident of Roseland; James, of
Thorp, Washington ; Eugene, Julia, Mary and Kate, all of whom are
deceased; Anna, the wife of Lee Arnold, of Roseland township; and
Ella Bovard, who lives at Ayr, Nebraska.
John P. Duncan was educated in the common schools of Illinois
and through assisting his father gained much valuable knowledge of
farming. In 1870, when about twenty-five years of age, he came to
this county and took up a homestead on section 10, Silver Lake
township. His first residence here was a shantj' built of palings, and
his farm equipment was very primitive. But he was determined to
succeed and by dint of much hard work and careful planning he
gained a start and from that time on his resources increased steadily.
He engaged in farming until 1887 and during that time brought his
place to a high state of development. In October of that year he
built a residence in Roseland, the second house to be erected there,
and he has since resided in the town. About 1888 he and his brother
William built an elevator in Roseland and for a number of years he
was one of the leading grain, coal and live-stock dealers of the locality.
The enterprise and sound judgment which enabled him to succeed
as a farmer were again demonstrated in the conduct of his business
interests in Roseland and he gained a gratifying measure of pros-
perity. He is now living retired and is enjoying a leisure which his
former labor has made possible.
INIr. Duncan Avas married when twenty-eight years of age to INIiss
Anne Dempsey, who passed away leaving a daughter, Bridget Frances.
In 1881 ]Mr. Duncan was again married, ]\Iiss Bridget Loughran
becoming his wife. To them Avere born seven children, namely:
Stephen P., a druggist of Blue Hill, Nebraska; IMary Ellen, the wife
of Frank J. Roth, of Roseland; Annie F., Avho is a stenographer in
the employ of the Peters Trust Company of Omaha; John W., a
116 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
practicing physician of Omaha; Sarah, at home; James, attending
the State University; and Kathleen, deceased.
Mr. Duncan is a democrat in politics and served as supervisor for
a number of years. He and his family are members of the Assump-
tion Catholic church and observe its teachings in their lives. Fra-
ternally he is associated with the Workmen lodge at Roseland. He
is acquainted with practically the entire history of the county as it
was but sparseh^ settled when he arrived here in 1870, and in the fall
of 1871 he planted what was probably the first fall wheat sown in
the county. While so occupied the Indians stole a horse and it was
not until the following April that he recovered it. This incident is
of interest as it indicates the annoyances to which the earlj^ settlers
were subjected by the red men and there were also many other un-
pleasant features of pioneer life, but JMr. Duncan had faith in the
future of the county and lived to see that faith amply justified.
JOHN R. COREY.
John R. Corey is proprietor of the Hastings Bus & Transfer Line,
in which connection he is conducting a substantial business, his suc-
cess being based upon close application, unfaltering energy and
reliability. He was born in Titusville, Pennsylvania, October 24,
1867, and is a son of M. V. and Sarah (Burgher) Corey. The father
was engaged in the implement and oil business when in the east and
in the year 1876 he came with his family to Nebraska, settling in
Saline county, where he condvicted an implement store, remaining in
active business there until his death. His wife has also passed away.
In their family were seven children, five sons and two daughters.
The j^oungest son, John R. Corey, whose name introduces this
review, obtained a public school education and afterward continued
with his father for some time, assisting him in the conduct of the
implement business. He then went upon the road as a traveling
salesman, representing a dry goods house for a number of years. He
started out independently as partner in the Evans Bloom Cigar Com-
pany at Hastings, in which he owned a third interest for six years.
He then purchased the bus and transfer business on the 11th of July,
1914, and has since been at the head of an undertaking conducted
under the name of Hastings Bus & Transfer Line, in which connec-
tion he ojjerates five taxis and also has eighteen head of horses and
various vehicles. He has all the equipment for the conduct of
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 117
funerals, including three hearses. He operates hotel busses and does
baggage transfer work and furnishes employment at all times to
from twelve to fourteen men. His business has now grown to large
IJroportions and is caj^ably, systematicallj^ and carefully condvicted.
Mr. Corey at all times endeavors to please his jiatrons and thus secures
a gratifying patronage.
On the 2J<th of November, 1887, JMr. Corey was united in mar-
riage to JNIiss Eda J. Goebring, her father being Jacob Goebring, who
settled in Clay county, Nebraska, in 1873 and became the proprietor
of the first hotel in Harvard. Both he and his wife have passed away.
Mr. and Mrs. Corey have one son, John Raymond, who is nine years
of age.
In religious faith Mr. Corey is an Episcopalian. His political
allegiance is given to the democratic party and he takes an active part
in furthering its work and promoting its success. While he has never
been a j^olitician in the sense of office seeking, he served by appoint-
ment on the staff of the governor with the rank of colonel. Frater-
nally he is identified with the Elks, the Woodmen and the United
Commercial Travelers and he belongs to the Commercial Club. In
manner he is social and genial and has the qualities which render him
popular M'herever he is known, for he is always approachable and con-
siderate of others. His business integrity and enterprise have also
won him high respect and he is justly accounted one of the representa-
tive residents of Hastings.
C. C. ROBINSON,
While actively engaged in farming C. C. Robinson managed his
affairs so well that he accumulated a competence, which now enables
him to live retired in Prosser and to enjoy a period of well earned
leisure. His birth occurred in Highgate, Vermont, on the 29th of
AugTist, 1842, and he is a son of Warren and Polly (ISIiers) Robinson,
lifelong residents of Vermont. The father was very prominent in
public affairs, served as overseer of the poor for forty years, was
county judge for about ten years and for four terms represented his
district in the state legislature. He reached a very advanced age,
dying in 1896, when ninety-two years old. The family originally
came from the north of Scotland and the ancestry has been traced
back three hundred years. The mother of our subject passed away
in 1879 and both she and her husband are buried at Highgate, Ver-
118 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
mont. To them were bora eight children, namely: Felicia, who is
deceased; Byron, a resident of Blaine, IMaine; Orville, who is living
in St. Paul, JMinnesota, and has the distinction of being the oldest
violin maker in the United States, having followed that trade for
sixty years; Emily, deceased; C. C; Roswell, who was killed in the
battle of the Wilderness during the Civil war; Anna, the Avife of
C. G. Austin, of Highgate, Vermont, and one who died in infancy.
C. C. Robinson attended the common schools of Vermont in the
acquirement of an education and remained at home until nineteen
j-ears of age. On the 7th of February, 1862, he answered the call of
the government for troops, enlisting in Company F, Eighth Vermont
Volunteer Infantry. He remained with that command until honor-
ably discharged on the 22d of July, 1864, and took part in many hard
fought engagements. He went to New Orleans with General Butler
and after engaging in the campaign around that city for six months
was with the forces of General Banks and participated in the siege
of Port Hudson. Later he fought in the battle of Bisland, Louisiana,
and after that went on the Red river expedition under General Banks.
Subsequently he Avas detailed to jjicket duty in the swamps and
bayous of that region for some time and also took part in the expedi-
tion against the rebel gunboat King Cotton. He volunteered as one
of the sharpshooters avIio were to kill the gunners assigned to the rebel
gunboats, Hannah Jane, John C. Calhoun and The Little Devil,
before they reached the boats. These Federal sharpshooters were also
on a boat and when their vessel was compelled to stop because of
running against a large chain stretched across the river the rebel
soldiers entrenched along the bank began shooting at them. The
officer in command, Commodore Buchanan, was shot in the wheel-
house, and the sharjishooters in the rigging were subsequently ordered
to land and charge the rifle pits. This was done and the trenches and
sixty sharpshooters were captured. The Federal forces followed the
King Cotton up the bay as far as the channel was navigable and then
the rebels, seeing that capture was inevitable, burned the boat.
jNIr. Robinson returned home after his discharge from the army
and for three years resided in Hubbardstown, JNIassachusetts, after
which, in 1879, he migrated westward and took up a homestead in
Hall county, Nebraska. He proved up on that place and for twenty-
two years concentrated his energies upon its further imiDrovement
and development. His labors were practical and progressive and Avere
rewarded by a substantial financial return. He is now living retired
in Prosser but still owns two hundred acres in Hall county and also
holds title to twentv acres within the limits of Prosser.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 119
In 1867 Mr. Robinson was united in marriage to JNIiss Phoebe E.
Sheppard, bj' whom he has had six children, namelj^ : Artemus, who
is operating his father's farm in Hall countj^; Emma, the widow of
David Elliott; Pearl J., who is engaged in the automobile business in
Prosser; Lillie D., who is the widow of Elmer Stalkup and resides
in Alberta, Canada ; Lee Warren, of Butte, Montana ; and Ray, at
home.
Mr. Robinson is a republican in politics and has taken considerable
interest in public affairs. He has served acceptably as road super-
visor, as marshal and as street commissioner and keeps well informed
as to iJolitical conditions. He attends the Methodist Episcojjal church
and is always willing to aid in its work in every way possible. His
Christian faith has guided him in all of the relations of life and no
movement for the moral advancement of his community has lacked
his heartiest cooperation. For fifty years he has been affiliated with
the JNIasonic order and he is one of the leading members of the local
blue lodge. He belonged to the Grand Army post in Prosser as long
as it was maintained but since its discontinuance has not become iden-
tified M'ith any other post. His sterling worth has gained him the
sincere respect of all who have come in contact with him and there
are many who hold him in warm personal regard.
CHARLES G. LANE.
The Exchange National Bank of Hastings, now one of the strong
and leading financial concerns of Adams county, is largely the out-
growth of the business enterprise, ability and close application of its
president, Charles G. Lane, whose thoroughness in all that he under-
takes is one of the salient features of his growing success. He is one
of New England's native sons, his birth having occurred in Hamp-
ton, New Hamjjshire, November 2.3, 1862. There he was reared and
he supplemented a public school education by study in the Phillips
Academy at Exeter, New Hampshire. After completing his school
life he went to Boston and accepted a position as city salesman with
the Batchelder & Lincoln Company, wholesale dealers in shoes, with
whom he remained for about three years. His identification with the
west dates from 1884, in which year he made his way to Red Oak,
Iowa, where he entered the First National Bank, in which he spent
four and a half years. In 1888 he arrived in Hastings and accepted
the position of assistant cashier in tlie bank of which he is now the
120 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
president. Three years later he was advanced to the position of
cashier and continued in that connection for several years, or until he
was made president. Tlu'oughout the period of his residence in Hast-
ings he has devoted his entire time to the bank and his efforts have
been one of the potent elements in its substantial growth. He infused
life into the institution, introduced modern methods and at all times
has kept in touch with the trend of modern progress in banking
circles. His close application, his thoroughness, the wise system which
he installed and his careful safeguarding of the interests of depositors
have been the elements in the continued growth of the institution,
which is today one of the leading banks of this part of the state.
On the 30th of July, 1902, INIr. Lane was married to Miss Mary
jMcElhaney, a native of Brookfield, Pennsylvania, but reared and
educated in Greenville. They have one son, Charles Willson, ten
years of age. The family occupj' a fine residence in Hastings, in
addition to which INIr. Lane owns considerable property in jNIinnesota
and Nebraska. In his political views he is a republican Avhere national
issues are involved, but casts an independent local ballot and has never
accepted political office. He has served, however, as president of the
school board of Hastings for a few years and he is never remiss in the
duties of citizenship, cooperating in various plans and measures for
the public good, notwithstanding the fact that he leaves office holding
to others. Fraternally he is connected with Hastings Lodge, No. 50,
A. F. & A. M., with Nebo Commandery, No. 11, K. T., of which he
is the present eminent commander, and with Hastings Consistorj^ in
which he has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite.
He also belongs to Sesostris Temple of the INIystic Shrine at Lincoln.
He is a courteous, genial gentleman of unfeigned cordiality and he
has many friends in this i^art of the state, for his marked characteris-
tics are those which in every land and clime awaken confidence and
regard.
W. J. PEDERSEN.
W. J. Pedersen, who carries on general farming on section 26,
Juniata township, purchased his j^lace about fourteen years ago. It
comprises one hundred and sixty acres of excellent land two and a
half miles south of tlie town of Juniata and he operates the entire
half section. His farm is equipped with all modern improvements and
accessories and constitutes one of the attractive features of the land-
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 121
scape. The spirit of enterprise has actuated Mr. Pedersen in all that
he has done and laudable ambition has been one of the strong features
of his growing success. He was born in Denmark, April 24, 1863, a
son of Hans and Hannah Pedersen, who were likewise natives of that
country. They came to the Ujnited States in 1867, settling in Hart-
land, Wisconsin. Soon afterward the father died and the mother
later married again, becoming the wife of Ole Halverson. By her
first marriage she had five children, namely: Charles, who is deceased;
Rosa, who is the wife of Rasmus Christensen, of Wisconsin; W. J.,
of this review ; Anna, who is the wife of Carson Stover and lives near
Hastings, Nebraska; and one who died in infancy. There were no
children born of the second marriage, and JNIrs. Halverson passed
away about ten j^ears ago.
^V. J. Pedersen was only four years of age when brought by his
parents to the new world. He acquired a common school education
but was early thrown upon his own resources and worked as a farm
hand for his board and clothing until he reached the age of sixteen
years, when he began working by the month, receiving five dollars per
month in the summer, while in the winter season he ^vorked for his
board. He was emi^loyed in that capacity until 1881, spending some
time as a farm hand near Casselton, North Dakota. In 1885 he
removed to Adams county, Nebraska, settling in Juniata township,
where he purchased eighty acres of land. About fourteen years ago
he purchased his present property, which is situated on section 26 of
the same townshijj. He owns three hundred and twenty acres, all in
Juniata township, and success is attending his well directed labor as
a farmer. There were no improvements upon the place at the time
of his purchase but he erected a good house which was afterward
destroyed by fire. In the summer of 1915 he completed his present
commodious and attractive residence, which is one of the fine farm
houses of the township. He has added all the barns and sheds neces-
sary for the shelter of grain and stock and has secured the latest im-
proved machinery to facilitate the work of the fields. His life is a
busy and useful one and excellent results follow his labors.
At the age of twenty-seven j-ears jNIr. Pedersen was united in
marriage to ]\Iiss Sarah E. Boulton, a sister of Edward J. Boulton,
of whom a sketch ajjpears on another page of this work. To them have
been born four children, namely: Charles, Orta. ^Nlarcella and Walde-
mar, all at home.
In his political views JNIr. Pedersen is a democrat yet does not feel
himself bound by party ties and casts an independent l)allot if his
judgment so dictates. Fraternally he is connected with the JNIodern
122 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Woodmen of America at Juniata and he and his wife are members
of the Lutheran church. They have many warm friends in the com-
munity where they reside, for their fidelity to duty and their sociability
have gained for them the warm regard of those whom they have met.
HENRY AUGUST DAMKROEGER.
Henry August Damkroeger has devoted his life to farming and
is recognized as one of the capable and successful agriculturists of
Highland toAvnship. He owns two hundred and forty acres of good
land on section 26 and keeps everything about the place in excellent
condition. He was born in Westphalia, Germany, on the 29th of
July, 1876, and is a son of Henry and Charlotte (Grenemeyer)
Damkroeger, who in 1888 removed with their family to the United
States and settled in Jefferson county, Nebraska. After farming
there for seventeen years they went to Clay county, Nebraska, where
the father engaged in agricultural pursuits for fifteen years. At the
end of that time he retired and he and his wife are now living at Hast-
ings. They are the parents of the following living children, namely :
Louisa, who is residing in Adams county; Katie, now jNIrs. H. H.
INIahling, of Highland townshijj; Henrj^ August; INIary, the wife of
Frank Seiko, of Clay county; Charlotte, who married Henry ^Nleyer,
of Jefferson coimty, Nebraska ; Emma, the wife of Fred Seiko, of
Clay county; and Ida, the wife of Ferdinand Dieck, of Clay county.
Henry A. Damkroeger accompanied his i^arents to the United
States in childhood and received his education in Jefferson county,
Nebraska. He early began to assist his father with the farm work
and remained on the home place until he was thirty years of age,
during part of which time he was engaged in the operation of the
farm on his own account. At length he purchased one hundred and
twenty acres of land in Clay county but after operating that place for
five years sold and came to Adams county. He i^urchased his present
farm, which comprises two hundred and forty acres on section 26,
Highland township, and in the intervening years has made a number
of improvements thereon. He raises wheat, corn, alfalfa and oats
and also some stock. He has a number of good dairy cows and derives
a gratifying profit from the sale of his cream. He understands thor-
oughly all phases of farming and his labors are efficient and are
rewarded by a good income.
On the 15th of Februarv, 1901, IMr. Damkroeger was united in
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 123
marriage to Miss Dora Papenhaden, a daughter of Fred and Augusta
(Schmidt) Papenhaden, of Hamburg, Germany. INIr. Damkroeger
was born in that country but when sixteen years of age emigrated to
the United States. By her marriage she has become the mother of
eight children, namely: JNIartha, who was born on the 10th of Jan-
uarj^ 1902; Ernest, born August 31, 1903; Henry, November 22,
1905; Tabitha, September 28, 1907; Helmuth, July 24, 1909;
Amanda, February 13, 1911; Alfred, December 30, 1912; and Fred-
erick C, September 26, 1914.
jNIr. Damkroeger votes the rei^ublican ticket as he believes in its
policies and he takes the interest of a good citizen in public affairs.
He and his family attend the German Lutheran church, to the sup-
port of which he contributes, and the uprightness of his life has gained
him the sincere respect of all who have come into contact with him.
The gratifying measure of success which he has gained is due entirely
to his own industry and good management and he is one of the valued
citizens of his township.
ORVILLE BUTLER.
Orville Butler, connected with the Farmers Cooperative Grain &
Live Stock Company at Juniata, is also actively identified with agri-
cultural interests in this county and has farm property elsewhere. He
has ever depended entirely upon his own resources and labors for
advancement in the business world and his progress has been the
merited reward of his effort. He was born in Lee county, Illinois,
November 14, 1852, a son of Albert and Olive (Rodgers) Butler.
The father was born in the state of New York but was married in
Illinois and in the year 1854 removed to Marshall county, Iowa,
where he and his wife spent their remaining days. The father fol-
loAved the occupation of farming but died there prior to the Civil war.
In the family were five children: Franklin, now living in JNIarshall
county, Iowa; INIartha J., whose home is in Holt county, Nebraska;
Rachel, who was a twin sister of JNIartha and is now deceased; and
]Mrs. Estella Scott, of Ida Grove, Iowa.
The other member of the family is Orville Butler, who was but
two years of age at the time his parents removed to Iowa, where he
pursued a common school education. He was reared to farm life and
remained at home until about nineteen years of age, when he began
farming on his own account in Iowa. In 1882 he came to Nebraska,
124 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for a few years. He
later began work at the grain trade, with which he has since been con-
nected save for a period of three and one-half years when he held the
position of head engineer at the State Hospital. He was the fii-st
man hired by the month when that institution was opened. He is now
comiected with the Farmers Cooperative Grain & Live Stock Com-
pany, in which connection he is conducting an important and growing-
business. He thoroughly understands every phase of the trade and
is therefore well qualified to carry on the interests under his direction.
He now owns a pleasant home in Juniata, together with sixteen acres
of land adjoining the town, and he is likewise the owner of one hmi-
dred and sixt}^ acres in Wichita county, Kansas, together with ten
acres and a town lot at Sheridan, Colorado county, Texas. All that
he possesses has been acquired entirelj^ through his own efforts and his
energy and laudable ambition have been the basis of his growing
success.
In 1874 Mr. Butler was joined in wedlock to ]\Iiss INIary Livering-
house, by whom he has eight children, as follows: Faye F., who is a
resident of Eldorado, Nebraska; Frank, at home, who spent about a
year in Cuba as a member of the Third Nebraska; Cora, who is the
wife of Paul Walker, of INIinden, Nebraska ; Fred, living in Abilene,
Kansas ; Ross, a resident of Germantown, Nebraska ; Ralph, at home ;
Vida, who is the wife of A. L. Dominy, of Hastings ; and Nettie, the
wife of A. Stull, residing on her father's farm near Juniata.
In politics jMr. Butler is a republican and has filled the office of
road overseer. His wife is a member of the Dunkard church and he
holds membership in the INIodern Woodmen camp at Juniata, in which
he has filled all of the chairs, serving at the present time as banker.
His has been an active and well spent life and devotion to duty is the
keynote of his character. He has based his success upon persistency
of purpose, indefatigable energy and unfaltering business integrity
and has steadily progressed toward the goal of prosperitJ^
CHARLES H. HUDSON.
Charles H. Hudson, recognized as one of the leaders of the repub-
lican party in Adams county, is now filling the position of county
clerk and makes his home in Hastings, where he has a wide and favor-
able acquaintance. His record is one which makes Adams county
proud to number him among her native sons. His birth occurred on
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 125
the 19th of February, 1879, his parents being Orlando and ]\Iinerva
J. (Gihiiore) Hudson. The family came to Nebraska in 1878 from
Vandalia, Illinois, and settled a mile north of Hastings, where they
took up their abode upon a farm. There they resided for eight years
or more, when the farm was sold and the family removed to western
Nebraska, where the father continued business as a general mechanic.
It was a period of drought, however, when crop faihu-es brought on
hard times, and ]Mr. Hudson accordingly sold his interests in that part
of the state and went to Utah. Still later he became a resident of
Idaho and is now living in Palma, that state.
Charles H. Hudson is the eldest surviving member of a family of
five children. He was educated in the country schools and the public
schools, in which he pursued his stvidies to the ninth grade. His j'outh-
ful training was that of the home farm and he early became familiar
with all of the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist.
When but a young lad he took his place in the fields and continued to
assist in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting until he attained
his majority, when he secured a clerkship in a general store at Prosser.
He afterward became a partner in a drug store and continued in that
business until he entered the campaign for county clerk in 1911. He
made an excellent run for the office, was elected and entered ujjon the
discharge of his duties. During his first term he was only absent from
his office one day and on that occasion — a day in 1912 — he went with
other officials to Lincoln and there was instrumental with them in pre-'
venting the state board of equalization from making the threatened
ten per cent increase in the assessment of real estate in Adams county.
He discharged the duties of his position promptly and faithfully and
as economically as conditions Avould warrant. He was most painstak-
ing in all that he undertook and the excellent record of his first term
led to his reelection, so that he is now serving for a second term.
In religious faith INIr. Hudson is a Methodist and fraternally is
connected with the Odd Fellows, Elks, the Woodmen and the Eagles.
He also belongs to the Commercial Club and cooperates in every plan
and movement of that organization for the benefit and upbuilding of
the city along lines leading to permanent good. He is fond of camp
life, of hunting and in fact all phases of outdoor life and is interested
in baseball and tennis. In a word, his is a well rounded development.
He can Avork well and play well and knows that the even balance of
these things develops the strongest men and the best characters. He
has social manlj' qualities Avhich render him popular and which have
gained for him the esteem of all with whom he has come in contact.
Moreover, he is a self-made man, for from the age of twelve years he
126 PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
has been deiiendent ui^on his own resources. His father was the first
blacksmith of Hastings and when his parents left this district Charles
H. Hudson largelj^ earned his living by farm work, which he followed
through the summer months, attending school as opportunity offered
in the Avinter seasons. Thus gradually he worked his way upward
and in the course of years reached the position Avhich he now occupies
as a rejjresentative citizen of his native county.
JESSE LEW TEMPLETON.
Jesse Lew Templeton, a well known real estate and insurance
dealer of Kenesaw, was born on the 12th of JNIay, 1870, in Butler
county, Pennsylvania. His father, Thomas Templeton, who was
born also in that state October 6, 1839, received the education common
at the time of his boyhood and on beginning his business career devoted
some time to clerking and later worked in the oil fields. At the time
of the Civil war he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-
ninth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and participated
in a number of engagements, including the battles of Bull Run, Antie-
tam, Fredericksburg, INIary's Heights, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg
and JNIine Run. After the close of hostilities he went to Illinois, where
he clerked for a time and then returned to Pennsylvania, where lie
served as county clerk of Butler county. Subsequently he engaged in
merchandising there but in 1881 he removed to Topeka, Kansas, and
after clerking there for two years came to Kenesaw, Nebraska. He
purchased a quarter section of fine land three miles north of the town
and devoted eleven months to its cultivation, after which he sold the
place. He then went again to Topeka but a year later returned to
Kenesaw and again purchased land in this county. For four years he
served as postmaster of KenesaAV but at length he removed westward,
settling at Hood River, Oregon, where for two years he operated a
fruit ranch. Subsequently he engaged in the real estate business at
Long Beach, California, and there he passed away on the 18th of
August, 1915. His friends were many and there was sincere grief
at his demise. He was a republican in politics, was connected Avith
Kenesaw Lodge, No. 144, A. F. & A. jNI., and with the Ancient Order
of United Workmen, and his religious faith was that of the Presby-
terian church. He never ceased to enjoy meeting his comrades of the
war and was a loyal member of the Grand Army of the ReiDublic. He
Avas married October 6, 1868, to JNIiss INIaria Ann Hutchison, also a
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 127
native of Pennsjdvania, and they became the parents of four children,
of whom our subject is the only one surviving.
Jesse L. Templeton received a good education and was graduated
from the Topeka, Kansas, high school in 1888, after which he engaged
in farming in this count}^ for a considerable period. For a nmnber of
years, however, he has resided in Kenesaw and has won a place among
the leading business men of the town, being very active in the real
estate and insurance field. He studies the various phases of those lines
of business carefully, keeps in close touch with local business condi-
tions and has gained a large clientage.
JNIr. Templeton was married in 1891 to INIiss Lettie Latta, by
whom he has three children, namely : Robert Bruce, Faye and Fern.
Mr. Templeton casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of
the republican party and is well known fraternally, belonging to Ken-
esaw Lodge, No. 29, K. P., Kenesaw Lodge, No. 231, I. O. O. F.,
and the Royal Highlanders. He has not only gained a gratifying
measure of prosperity but he also holds in full degree the resj)ect of
those who have been associated with him.
C. D. HOFF.
C. D. HofF, who is engaged in the cleaning and dyeing business at
Hastings, building up a good trade by reason of excellence of work
and straightforward dealing, Avas born in Russia on the 18th of
August, 1879, of German parentage, being a son of Conrad and INIade-
line Hoff. His father followed the occupation of farming in Russia
until the year 1903, when he brought his family to the United States.
He made his way at once into the interior of the country, settling at
Hastings, where both he and his wife now reside. In the family were
eight children, five sons and three daughters.
C. D. Hoff, the fourth in order of birth, was educated in the
schools of his native land and after coming to the new world learned
the cleaning and dyeing business. He embarked in business on his
own account at the age of twentj-^-one years, starting in a very modest
way and gradually increasing his trade and his facilities until he now
has the largest establishment of the kind in the county, employing
five people and utilizing an automobile for the collection and delivery
of goods. He has the patronage of Hastings' leading people and the
establishment is a valuable asset to the business interests of the city.
He occupies both the lower and upper floors of the building at 806
128 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
West Second street, with a cleaning department in the rear supphed
with all modern improvements. He has made excellence of work the
basis of his growing trade and is meeting with gratifying success.
On the 21st of April, 1900, jMr. Hoff was united in marriage to
Miss Catherine Burngard, a daughter of Henry Burngard. They
have two children, Robert and Neoma. JMr. HofF belongs to the
German Congregational church and fraternally is a chapter JNIason,
exemj)lifying in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft. In politics
he regards the capability of the man rather than his party affiliation.
He turns to fishing and hunting for recreation, but the major part of
his time is given to his business affairs and his concentration and
energy constitute the salient factors in his growing trade. He has
worked hard, his labors have been intelligently directed and his efforts
are now bringing to him gratifying success.
JAMES D. McFERREN.
Among the retired farmers of Juniata is James D. McFerren,
who was born at JNIount Alton, Pennsylvania, JNIarch 24, 1845, a son
of James and Lena (Kuhn) JNIcFerren, both of whom were natives
of the Keystone state, where they were reared and married. The
father was a teacher in the public schools and remained a resident of
Pennsylvania until his death, which occurred in 1849. In the family
Avere but two children, James and Clara, the latter now deceased.
In the schools of Pennsylvania, James D. INIcFerren pursued his
education and when quite young began to earn his own livelihood.
He is a self-made man in the truest and best sense of the term, having
depended entirely upon his own resources for material advancement
from his early youth. He was but seventeen j'ears of age when on the
8th of Aug-ust, 1862, he responded to the country's call for troojjs and
M'ent to the front for nine months' service. At the end of that time
he was honorably discharged July 14, 1863. Later he again joined
the army, becoming a member of Company D, Twenty-first Pennsyl-
vania Cavalry, M'ith which he remained for six months, being dis-
charged July 8, 186.5. He was captured at Farmville but was released
three days later on account of the close of the war. He was on duty
with the Army of the Potomac, serving as corporal a part of the
time, and he participated in the battles of Fredericksburg and Antie-
tam, together with others of lesser importance.
When his military service was ended Mr. JNIcFerren returned to
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 129
Pennsj'lvania, where he remained for about two years, when he re-
moved to Goshen, Indiana, there spending three years. In 1870 he
became a resident of JMarshalltown, Iowa, and in that locahty was
engaged in farming until 1883. Later he came to Nebraska, settling
on section 11, Juniata township, Adams county, where he continued
to engage in farming until he took up his abode in the town about
twenty-one years ago. Here he owns a fine residence and he is also
the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of good land in Perkins
county. His business affairs have ever been carefully managed and
while upon the farm he Avas regarded as a very progressive agricul-
turist, wide-awake, alert and enterprising. He brought his fields to a
high state of cultivation and carefully and j^ersistently carried on his
work, his labors bringing to him a gratifying measure of success.
In 1867 Mr. JMcFerren was united in marriage to Miss Sarah
Liveringhouse, by whom he has seven children, as follows : William,
who is a resident of Kenesaw, Nebraska; Louie, living in Juniata,
this state ; Frank, who Avas killed by lightning ; Charles, a resident of
Grand Island, Nebraska; JNIay, who is the wife of R. L. Workman,
of Holdredge, Nebraska; Belle, living in Denver, Colorado; and
Winnie, at home.
The i^arents are members of the Brethren or Dunkard church and
were among the organizers of the congregation. Thej' are people of
the highest respectability and they enjoy the goodwill and confidence
of all who know them. For a third of a century they have been resi-
dents of this countj' and have therefore been witnesses of much of its
growth and improvement.
WILLIAM I. MAYS.
William I. JNIays, a well known and efficient farmer, is now assist-
ing his brother David with the operation of his farm a half mile south-
west of Trimabull. Our subject was born in Kosciusko county, In-
diana, on the 4.th of JNIarch, 1866, a so^ of G. W. and Julia M.
(Kearns) Mays, further mention of whom appears in the sketch of
David IVIays. He received good educational advantages, graduating
from the high school at Warsaw, Indiana, and during his youth he also
learned much concerning the various phases of farm work. He
remained on the home place until he was nineteen years of age and
then hired out to others, continuing as a farm hand for three years.
In JNIarch, 1890, in company with his mother, brother and sister, lie
130 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
came to Adams county and all made their home with Da^'id INtays,
who had taken up his residence in this county two years previously.
Mr. Mays of this review worked by the month for three years, after
wliich he was married and began farming for himself, renting land
nine miles northeast of Hastings. After operating that place for
two years he removed to his brother's farm a half mile south of Trum-
bull and remained there for five years. Following the demise of his
wife in 1901 he went east, where he worked for a year, but in 1902 he
returned to Adams county and for six years followed the barber's
trade. At the end of that time he again turned his attention to agri-
cidtural pursuits and is now aiding his brother in farming his place
near Trumbull.
JNIr. JNIays was married on the 7th of JNIarch, 1894, to Grace F.
Randall, a daughter of F. R. Randall, who resided near Trumbull.
ISIrs. JNIays passed away on the 20th of March, 1901. She was the
mother of four children, as follows: Claude E., who was born on the
11th of September, 1896, and is now attending high school at Trum-
bull; Leo C, who was born October 25, 1897, and is also a high-school
student; Leslie Ward, who was born in February, 1899, and died in
infancy; and David William, whose birth occurred on the 5th of
February, 1901, and who, following the death of his mother when he
was six weeks old, was adopted by AVilliam Randall, a real-estate
agent of Trenton, Nebraska.
INIr. jNIays gives his j^olitical allegiance to the democratic jDarty
where national issues are at stake, but at local elections votes inde-
pendently. He holds membership in the Christian church. He is well
known throughout the countj' and is recognized as an able farmer, a
good citizen and a man of high moral principles.
JOSEPH W. PLUI^IMER.
There are many successful farmers in Adams county, among
whom is numbered Josejjh W. Pkmimer, of West Blue township.
He was born near Sterling, in Whiteside county, Illinois, on the 10th
of February, 1855, but when two years of age was taken by his
parents to INIarshall county, Iowa, where he attended the common
schools. Subsequently he was a student in Friend's Academy at
IVIarshalltown and he remained ujDon the home farm with his parents
until he was twenty-seven years of age. In 1880 the family removed
to Burt county, Nebraska, and there his parents passed away. After
MR. AND MRS. JOSEPH W. PLUMMT3R
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 133
farming for nine years in that county INIr. Plummer of this review
removed to Dawes county and resided on a ranch there until 1901.
In that year he came to Adams county and purchased the John Owens
homestead about three miles northeast of Hastings, where he now
lives. He is a practical and up-to-date farmer, and his industry has
enabled him to accmnulate more than a competence. In 1910 he
rented his farm and removed to Hastings, but in the spring of 1915
he returned to the farm.
Mr. Plummer was married in Iowa in 1880 to Miss Rhoda Mote,
of INIarshall county, Iowa, whose parents subsequently removed to
Dawes county, Nebraska. Five children have been born to this union
as follows: IMae C, Avho was born in 1882, is now the wife of Charles
A. Smith, an insurance agent of Sioux City, Iowa, and has two chil-
dren. Harry M., born in 1883, is a plumber of Chadron, Nebraska,
and he married INIae Hart, of Edgar, Nebraska. Ada L., whose
birth occurred in 1886, married George M. Drollinger, a son of
M. H. Drollinger, a pioneer settler of Adams county. George ISl.
Drollinger is a collection agent in Spokane, Washington, and on the
2d of July, 1915, was called upon to mourn the death of his wife.
They were the parents of four children. Norman C, born in 1888,
is engaged in farming at Hinton, Iowa. Roy, born in 1890, is farm-
ing at JMeckling, South Dakota. He married Grace Kohlman, of
Hastings, Nebraska, a daughter of L. H. Kohlman, a pioneer of this
county, and thej' have two children.
INIr. Plummer supports the democratic party at the polls, as he
believes in its principles, and his religious faith is that of the Methodist
church. In 1911 he took an extensive trip through Europe, the Holy
Land and Egj^pt and derived much pleasure and profit from his
travels. He is a man of keen intelligence and keeps well informed on
all questions and issues of the day. He has won financial success and
has also gained a high place in the regard of his fellow citizens and
ranks as a substantial resident of his township.
L. PHILLIPS.
L. Phillips, proprietor of the Bostwick Hotel at Hastings, con-
ducted on the European plan, has in the course of his business career
made steady advancement and the steps in his orderly progression are
easily discernible. The faithful performance of each day's duties has
134 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
brought him strength and power for the labors of the succeeding day
and his abihty has grown through the exercise of effort. Thus it is
that he has come to a place among the substantial business men of his
adopted city. JNIr. Phillips is a native of Nebraska, his birth having
occurred in Furnas county on the 14th of December, 1879, his parents
being Caliph and Sarah Phillips, who in the year 1866 came to this
state and for a year resided in Plattsmouth before removing to Fur-
nas county, where the father homesteaded land, securing both a pre-
emption and a timber claim. Year after year he carefully tilled the
soil until the once wild prairie was converted into a valuable farm, on
which he continued to make his home until about seven years ago,
when he retired from active business life. When he settled upon the
old homestead he was surrounded bj^ Indians, for the red men were
then more nvmierous in that section of the country than the white
settlers. There were many hardships and privations to be borne and
dangers to be faced, but with resolute sj^irit the family faced the
conditions of frontier life and lived to see a remarkable change and
profit by the improved conditions. In the family were four sons and
two daughters, of whom L. Phillips is the fourth in order of birth.
The youngest son is now operating the old homestead. At the time
of the Civil war the father joined the armj^ serving for four years
and twenty daj^s in the West Virginia Cavalrj'.
L. Phillips, whose name introduces this review, was reared amid
the wild scenes and conditions of frontier life. His education Avas
acquired in one of the primitive schoolhouses of Furnas county, it
being partly a dugout and partly a sod structure. School was held
only through the winter seasons, for during the remainder of the year
the labors of the children were usualh' required in farm work. Mr.
Phillips remained at home until he reached the age of sixteen years,
but, thinking to find other pursuits more congenial than the work of
the fields, he then began learning the barber's trade, Avhich he followed
for three years in the employ of others and afterward for several
years on his own account. In 1903 he removed to Adams county,
settling first at Juniata, where he engaged in business, and in Feb-
ruary, 1911, he removed to Hastings and took charge of the Bostwick
Hotel, of which he has since been the proprietor. This hotel is con-
ducted on the European plan and he furnishes employment to twenty
people. He has made it a popular hostelry, liberally patronized, and
his capable management is resulting in the attainment of success. He
is also the owner of farm lands and of real estate in Hastings, having
made judicious investments in property, which return to him a gratify-
ing annual income.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 135
In religious faith Mr. PhilliiDs is a Catholic. He belongs to the
Travelers' Protective Association, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and
to the Commercial Club. He enjoys hunting big game and makes
long trips for this purpose. He has one of the finest collections of
mounted big game to be seen in the west, having been offered thirty-
thousand dollars for this collection, which, however, he refused. In
j)olitics he is independent, holding to men and measures rather than
to party, and, while he does not seek nor desire office, he is never remiss
in the duties of citizenship, preferring to concentrate his energies
upon his business affairs, which are wisely and systematically directed.
He has attractive social qualities which have won for him popularity
and those who know him entertain for him high esteem.
CHARLES HENRY DIETRICH.
Distinguished among Nebraska's eminent sons is Charles Henry
Dietrich, whose record reflects credit and honor upon the state which
has honored him. In business circles he figured prominently for
many years as a leading banker and in other connections he has left
the impress of his individuality upon the history of the common-
wealth, for he has been Nebraska's chief executive and has also been a
member of the United States senate. His course in office, as in private
life, has been creditable to himself and satisfactory to his constituents
and his work has at all times been fraught with good for the com-
munity at large. A native of Illinois, JNIr. Dietrich was born in
Aurora on the 26th of November, 1853, his parents being Leonard
and Wilhelmina (Stein) Dietrich, both of whom were natives of
Germany. The father, who was born in Darmstadt, died at the
advanced age of eighty-six years, and the mother, whose birth occurred
at Frankfort, passed aAvay at the age of eighty years. He was a shoe
manufacturer and followed that business in Germany until the time
of the revolution of 1848. He belonged to the socialist party, joined
the revolutionists and was driven from Germany. He then went to
Canada, from which point he proceeded by slow stages down through
the United States to St. Louis, where he met his wife and family,
who had come by sailing vessel to the new world, arriving after a
voyage of three months or in the year 1849. JNIr. Dietrich then took
his family to Aurora, Illinois, where he became connected with the
shoe business. He was a well educated man and a most interesting-
conversationalist and he taught both German and French in the schools
336 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of Aurora, where he continued to reside throughout his remaining
days, taking an active interest in the affairs of the city and enjoying
the fruits of hberty as offered in the new world.
Charles Henry Dietrich attended school in Aurora to the age of
ten years, when he ran away from home, possessing the venturesome
spirit that many a boy manifests. The following year he returned
home and then went to school until he reached the age of twelve.
Again leaving Aurora, he made his way to St. Joseph, jNIissouri, and
for three years occupied a position as clerk in the hardware store of
W. M. Wyeth. In 1868 he went to Chicago, where he engaged with
the Hayden Kay Saddlery & Hardware Company until their business
was destroyed by the great fire of 1871. He then entered the service
of the Chicago City Railroad Company as inspector but after having
trouble with a conductor went to St. Louis, where he worked as a
conductor on the street railroad for a short time. Later he was at
JMemphis, Tennessee, where he drove a horse car until quarantined
with yellow fever. After his release he made his way to Laconia
Circle, Arkansas, with the intention of going into business there on
his own account, but he was robbed of his money. Returning to
Aurora, he worked at the blacksmith's trade mitil 1875, when he made
his way to the Black Hills. At that time the city of Deadwood was
not laid out and the district was still an Indian reservation. He cut
logs used in the building of the first store there and, working for a
pioneer firm, he delivered goods on pack mules all over the Black
Hills. One of the party located in Spearfish, South Dakota, and
traded his interest in the town site for a gold watch. JNIr. Dietrich
located the Aurora mine in Hidden Treasure Gulch and worked the
mine for a short time, after which he sold out to a syndicate composed
of United States Senators George E. Sj^encer, Thomas Piatt and
Roscoe Conkling. He then returned to Aurora and in 1878 made
his way to Texas, where he had a big herd of sheep near San Antonio.
In the fall of 1878 jNIr. Dietrich came to Hastings, where he en-
gaged in general merchandising with John Wood, the first mayor of
the city. In 1880 he tvn-ned his attention to the hardware business,
forming a partnership Avith J. B. Dallas, with whom he remained for
a year. In 1881 he opened a loan and insurance office as senior partner
in the firm of Dietrich & Slaker, their relation being maintained for
about six j'ears or until 1887, when JNIr. Dietrich organized the Ger-
man National Bank, remaining as its president for eighteen years or
until July, 190.5. He placed that institution upon a safe, substantial
basis, inaugurated a progressive policy that worked for the upbuilding
of the bank and at the same time carefully safeguarded the interests
PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 137
of depositors. Throughout the long years of his residence in Hast-
ings Mr. Dietrich has taken a most active and helpful part in promot-
ing the upbuilding of the city and advancing its interests in many
ways. For several j'ears he was the president of the Board of Trade
and he took an active part in inducing the Northwestern and JNIissouri
Pacific Railroads to build their lines through Hastings. He has ever
been a leader in movements for the benefit of the city and surrounding
country. He it was who jjlanted the first timothy and clover field in
the county and also the first alfalfa field, and at one time he was the
owner of large farm holdings in Adams county. He recognized the
ojiportunity for judicious investment and so placed his capital that
excellent results accrued.
Mr. Dietrich has been twice married. On the 4th of May, 1878,
he wedded JNIiss Elizabeth Slaker, of Aurora, who j)assed awaj^ in
February, 1887. Their daughter, Gertrude E., is the wife of Herbert
Knox Smith, a well known supj^orter of Theodore Roosevelt who
served as commissioner of corporations at Washington from 1907 to
1912, has been a member of the Connecticut house of representatives,
was a candidate for United States senator and has also been candidate
for governor on the progressive ticket. In 1909 INIr. Dietrich was
again married, his second union being with Miss Margretta S. Stewart,
of Philadelphia, a daughter of William Shaw and Delia (Allman)
Stewart. The Stewarts were of an old Scotch family established in
the United States in 1749. Her father was a leading physician of
Philadelphia who was graduated from the Jeiferson Medical College
there. In 1861 he enlisted in the army and served throughout the
Civil war. Following the close of hostilities he returned to Philadel-
phia and began practice, being recognized as a prominent and honored
representative of the profession in that city. He was one of the most
prominent members of the Philadelphia Medical Society and he was
the one who introduced the four years' course in the Philadeljihia
College of JNIedicine. He was dean of its medical department and in
that connection maintained the highest standard of professional ethics.
Three times he was sent as a delegate to the International JNIedical
Society. IMrs. Dietrich is very active in all civic and social affairs of
Hastings. She is president of "Sunnyside," an institution for the
care of the old, the destitute and the needy, was one of the organizers
and the president of the Adams County Woman's Suffrage Associa-
tion and is a member of the state board of the Suffrage Association.
In his fraternal relations INIr. Dietrich is a prominent INIason,
having taken the consistory degrees of the Scottish Rite. He also
belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. In politics he
138 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
has ever been an earnest republican and has come more and more into
prominence with the passing years as his opinions have carried weight
in party councils and his efforts have proven effective in promoting
political successes. He was elected governor of Nebraska in 1900
after the state had been under democratic and populistic rule for
eight years. He was chosen on the 28th of March, 1901, to fill out
the unexpired term of Senator Hayward and therefore resigned his
position as governor on the 1st of May following, after which he con-
tinued to represent the state in the United States senate from Decem-
ber 21, 1901, until INIarch 4, 1905. In the latter year he retired from
all activity, business, political and otherwise, but the state is still
enjoying the benefits of his public service and of his business activity,
for he set in motion the wheels of progress and the results have not
yet reached their full fruition. His record is an indication of what
may be accomplished through the employment of opportunities when
laudable ambition and determination point out the way, and his life
history should have its inspirational effect upon the lives of others,
encouraging them to continued effort toward the attainment of high
ideals.
FREDERICK J. HALLER.
During the later years of his life Frederick J. Haller was a resi-
dent of Kenesaw and enjoyed the respect, confidence and goodwill of
all who knew him there, as he had in various other localities in which
he had made his home. He was of foreign birth but America had no
more loyal nor devoted citizen among her native sons. It sometimes
seems that men born under monarchial rule have an even higher appre-
ciation of the opportunities and jjrivileges afforded under a republican
form of government than those m'\\o have always enjoyed them, as
they judge their condition in contrast to what they have formerly
known, and Mr. Haller was anaong those who proved his patriotic
devotion to America by valiant service in the Civil war.
He was born in Bavaria, Germany, December 11, 1832, a son of
John and Eva Catherine (Frone) Haller. The father, a man of
great intelligence, devoted his life to the profession of teaching,
Frederick J. Haller was reared in his native country to the age of
seventeen years and was liberally educated, displaying particular
skill in mathematics. Crossing the Atlantic in 1849, he landed at New
York, where he made his home for two years, after which he removed
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 139
westward to AVisconsin and later to INIichigan, where he engaged in
farming and lumbering. Subsequentlj^ he removed to Huron county,
Ohio, ^v'here he was living at the outbreak of the Civil war. In re-
sponse to the country's call for troops he offered his services to the
government, enlisting as a private of Company A, One Hundred and
First Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He left a wife and small children
to go to the front, feeling that he owed a duty to his adopted country
in aiding in her jDreservation. He took part in a number of hotly
contested engagements and with his command entered the field at
Chickamauga, where he was shot on the 19th of September, 1863.
On the 13th of November the fu'st lieutenant of his company, Ben-
jamin F. Brj^ant, then commanding the regiment, wrote Mrs. Haller:
"Our regiment went into action on Saturday, September 19th, at
about 11 o'clock A. M. At fii-st we laj^ down in front of the battery,
placed on an eminence behind us, which shelled the woods in our imme-
diate front where the enemy were. Then we rose up and advanced to
the edge of the woods Avhere we became engaged. It A^'as almost noon,
and while we were engaged near the edge of the woods your husband
was shot through the body by a musket ball and fell dead. We were
driven from the first position and never regained it. At sundown the
fighting had ceased. Our skirmishers were full fortj' rods from the
place of which I speak and we could not get beyond there as the rebels
were in the woods and shooting at every one who approached. On
Sunday the fighting was near Chattanooga and as we left the field
Sunday night and fell back to Rossville, and JNIonday night went to
Chattanooga, we know nothing of those who fell in the fight. Every-
thing your husband had was about his person and of course lost. I
most sincerely sympathize with you in j'our irreparable loss. I bear
testimony to the good conduct of your husband as a soldier under all
circumstances. I am, Yours very truly, Benjamin F. Bryant, 1st
Lieut. Comdg. Comj^any A, 101st O. V. I."
Such was the account which reached INIrs. Haller but fate had not
been thus unkind to the family, for many years more of active and
useful life remained to Mr. Haller. As his commander had stated,
he was struck by a musket ball which entered just below the left eye,
passed through it and came out the back of the neck but though left
for dead, life Mas not extinct. He lay all night on the battlefield, was
captured and kej^t in the open. He was afterward for fifteen months
in jjrisons at Richmond, Danville, Andersonville and Florence and
was paroled in December, 1864. He then rejoined his regiment and
was mustered out with his command.
When his military service was over ]Mr. Haller returned to Huron
140 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
county, Ohio, and in 1865 went to JNIichigan, where he engaged in
farming until 1888. He then went to Clarke county, Iowa, where he
carried on general agricultural pursuits until 1905, when he became
a resident of IvenesaAv, Nebraska, there spending his remaining days.
It was on the 17th of JMarch, 1856, that JNIr. Haller was married
to JNIiss Frances L. Stevens, of Berrien county, Michigan. She was
born in Huron countj^, Ohio, September 4, 1837, a daughter of JNIr.
and JNIrs. John JNI. Stevens. She traces her ancestry back to the
Revolutionary war period, her great-grandfather having served as a
captain in the conflict to establish American independence. On the
paternal side the family was represented in the War of 1812. To
Mr. and INIrs. Haller were born seven children: Mary H., the wife
of J. M. Russell, of Kenesaw; Emma F., who is deceased; JNIartha
B., who has also passed away; Almeria G., who died at the age of
nineteen months ; John F., who is in the general offices of the Union
Pacific Railroad Company at Omaha; Ernest L., deceased; and
Romaine W., who is engaged in farming at Elk Head, Colorado.
The familj^ are members of the Evangelical Lutheran church, to
which Mr. Haller belonged, and he guided his life by its teachings.
His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he held
membership in the Grand Army of the Republic. He died August
9, 1915, and in passing on left a memory honored and revered by all
who knew him. Once more from B. F. Bryant came a word of sym-
pathy and condolence, such as he had written when, more than a half
century before, he believed he was sending to the widow the news of
her husband's death upon a southern battlefield. ]Mrs. Haller was
sent a Resolution of Respect, reading:
"When sounds the last assembly
And the guard has gone the round,
]May we pitch our tents together on
Some happier camjiing ground.
"It becomes our duty as members of the One Hundred and First
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to record the death of Comrade Frederick
J. Haller, a member of Company A, who entered the service of his
country August 4, 1862. He was wounded in the battle of Chicka-
mauga, Georgia, September 19, 1863, was captured and spent fifteen
months in Confederate prisons, paroled and rejoined his command,
December, 1864, served to the close of the Avar, and was mustered out
with his company, June 12, 1865.
"Resolved, That in the death of Comrade Haller we have lost out
PAST A^D PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 141
of our ranks a noble hero, loyal, brave and true ; his countr j^ a peace-
able, law-abiding citizen and a good man; his family, to whom we
tender the love and synipath}' of all our comrades, a devoted husband
and father.
"Resolved, That a copy of these Resolutions be forwarded to his
family at Kenesaw, Nebraska; also, a copy filed with the Association
records.
"A. C. Knapp t
"B. F. Bryant \ Committee."
"Miles E. Cartwright j
For ten years Mr. Haller had been a resident of Kenesaw and
during that period had gained a firm hold upon the affectionate regard
and goodwill of his fellow townsmen who appreciated his sterling
worth and his fidelity to principle. He held friendship inviolable and
was a devoted husband and father, counting it his greatest happiness
to provide for his wife and children and in every way promote their
interests.
LEOPOLD HEMBERGER.
Leoj3old Hemberger, who has gained success as a farmer and now
owns two hundred and forty acres of good land in Juniata township,
was born in Baden, Germany, on the 5th of December, 1863. His
parents, Constantin and Agnes (Hemberger) Hemberger, were also
born in that country, where they passed their entire lives. The father
died when our subject was but three years of age and the mother
when he Avas a young man of twenty-five years. They were the par-
ents of eleven children : Sigmond, who is living in Sangamon county,
Illinois ; Gallus, a resident of Adams county, Nebraska ; Emil, a resi-
dent of White Lake, South Dakota; Edward and August, both of
whom are deceased ; Katie and Bertha, both of whom are residing in
Germany; Charlotte, Amelia and INlary, all of whom are deceased;
and Leopold, the youngest of the family.
Leopold Hemberger attended school in Germany for eight years
and received a most thorough training. As is customary there he
went to school on Saturday as well as on the other week days and had
only six weeks' vacation in the entire year. As a youth he learned the
shoemaker's trade and subsequently when seventeen years of age emi-
grated to the LTnited States, making his way at once to Springfield,
Illinois. He there found work as a farm hand and was so employed
U2 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
for three and a half years, after which he came to Adams county,
Nebraska. He had saved his money carefully and was able to pur-
chase a farm in Cottonwood township, which he operated successfully
until 1904. In that year he removed to his present place on section 7,
Juniata township, and in the intervening twelve years has made many
improvements upon the farm, which comprises two hundred and forty
acres of excellent land. He understands thoroughly the various
phases of agriculture and derives a good financial return from his
labors.
When twenty-three years of age Mr. Hemberger was united in
marriage in Hastings, Nebraska, to Miss Elizabeth Fabry, by whom
he has ten children, namely: John, who is farming in Cottonwood
township, this county ; Henry, an agriculturist of Roseland township ;
Anna, the wife of Charles Kaiser, of Roseland township; Leo, at
home; Teresa, who is keeping house for her brother Henry; and
Ehardt, Francis, Frank, Joseph and Albert, all of whom are at home.
jNIr. Hemberger supj^orts the democratic party at the polls but has
never taken a verj^ active part in jjolitical affairs. He and his family
are members of the Roman Catholic church, to the support of which
they contribute. He began his career without capital other than his
energy, good judgment and determination to succeed and these quali-
ties have enabled him to gain a competence and ha^e also won him the
respect and esteem of those with whom he has been brought in contact.
STEPHEN FABER.
Stephen Faber has made many improvements upon his farm on
section 28, Juniata township, and is recognized as a substantial citizen
of his community. He was born in the grand duchy of Luxemburg
on the 13th of JNIay, 1865, of the marriage of Peter and Elizabeth
(Kertz) Faber, who passed their entire lives in that country. They
M'ere the jjarents of six children, namely: John Peter, a resident of
Luxemburg; Peter, deceased; Harry and Elizabeth, both of Avhom
are living in Luxemburg; Stejshen; and Susan, a resident of Paris,
France.
Stephen Faber received a good education in the schools of his
native land and remained at home until he was seventeen years of age.
He then began working for others and so continued in Luxemburg
for six years. At the end of that time he emigrated to the LTnited
States as he desired to take advantage of the opportunities offered
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 143
by a comparatively new country. He located at Maryville, Missouri,
where he worked for a few months, after which he removed to
Holdredge, Nebraska. Not long afterward he arrived in Hastings
and for three years worked as a farm hand in that vicinitj\ During
the ten years following he operated rented land and carefully saved
his money with the view of purchasing a farm. At length his ambi-
tion was realized and he bought a good tract of land in Ayr townshij),
on which he lived for nine years and during that time brought the
place to a high state of development. He next purchased his present
farm of one hundred and forty acres on section 28, Juniata township,
and is devoting his energies to its operation. He seldom fails to
harvest good crops and also gives some attention to raising high gi'ade
stock and finds both branches of his business profitable.
In 1890 JNIr. Faber was united in marriage to Miss Susanna David
and they have become the parents of nine children, namely: John,
Anna C, INIary M., Pauline S., Peter N., William N., Albert P.,
Gertrude A. and Irena A., all at home.
The democratic party has a stalwart supporter and advocate in
Mr. Faber but he has been too busj^ with his business interests to take
an active part in politics. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights
of Columbus at Hastings and he and his wife are communicants of
the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Faber deserves much credit for
what he has accomplished as when he came to this country a young
man of twenty-three years he was practically emj)ty-handed and,
moreover, did not understand the customs of the jJeople. He has
always worked hard and has managed his affairs well and is now the
owner of a good farm and also a stockholder in the Roseland Elevator.
He has not only won financial success but he has also gained the
sincere respect of those with whom he has had dealings and there are
manv who are his warm friends.
EZRA E. SCHULTZ.
Ezra E. Schultz is one of the active business men of Hastings,
prominent, enterprising and progressive. He is the manager of an
extensive commercial enterprise conducted under the name of Stephen
Schultz, liis partners in the undertaking being Stephen and Harry E.
Schultz of Hastings and Walter C. Schultz, of Kenesaw. They are
dealers in agricultural implements, vehicles, harness and automobiles
and maintain a chain of houses in this part of the state so that their
144 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
trade covers a wide territory. Ezra E. Schultz is a most progressive
young man, wide-awake, alert and determined in what he midertakes,
and the record of his success should serve to inspire and encourage
others. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on the 23d of July, 1881, and
is a son of Stej)hen and Johanna (Martin) Schultz. The family
came to Nebraska in 1887, settling first at Kenesaw, where the father
engaged in the blacksmith business, his activities along that line con-
tinuing for several years, after which he extended the scope of his
labors, becoming a dealer in agricultural implements in 1892. He
remained in business at Kenesaw until 1907, when he removed to
Hastings, opening an establishment at Second and Burlington streets.
In 1910 he erected a fine business block containing twelve hundred
square feet of floor space and two stories in height. In 1913 the garage
was built, sixt}' by one hundred and twenty-five feet — a fireproof
structure. They conduct a retail business, handling the Paige, Grant
and Velie cars.
Ezra E. Schultz was educated in the Kenesaw high school, the
parents giving liberal educational advantages to their children, who
were ten in number. Ezra E. Schultz is the eldest of the six who are
yet living. He sjjent his youthful days under the jiarental roof and
has always been associated with his father in business and under his
direction received his business training. Three of the sons are now
partners in this undertaking and aside from the main establishment
at Hastings they have seven branch houses in Nebraska, situated at
Juniata, Kenesaw, Heartwell, Holstein, Prosser, Giltner and Rose-
mont. They carry the goods of the John Deere Plow Company and
handle all kinds of agricultural implements, harness and vehicles, be-
ing able to supply to the trade all that the best markets afford.
Ezra E. Schultz was united in marriage to INIiss Ona Blythe, a
daughter of A. B. Blythe, on the 12th of September, 1906, and they
have one son, Dale. In religious faith the parents are JMethodists
and are liberal and generous supporters of the church. INIr. Schultz
also belongs to the ]\Iasonic fraternitj^ having attained the thirty-
second degree of the Scottish Rite. He is likewise a member of the
Commercial Club and is interested in all that has to do with the up-
building and progress of his city. In politics he is a republican and
keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day but has
never sought nor held public office. He enjoys motoring and hunting
and is fond of outdoor life, turning thereto for needed recreation from
the cares of an onerous and growing business. It is true that he
entered upon a business already established, but in controlling and
enlarging this many a man of less resolute spirit would have failed*
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY li5
and his course demonstrates that success is not a matter of genius as
held bj- some but is rather the outcome of sound judgment and ex-
perience, supplemented bj' unfaltering industry.
DIRK H. STROMER.
Dirk H. Stromer was one of the pioneer settlers of Hanover
township, Adams county, and, although he had many obstacles to
overcome, he persevered and succeeded in gaining financial indepen-
dence. His demise, which occurred in Hastings, October 24, 1914,
Avas deeply regretted by his many friends. A native of Germany, he
Mas born in 1846 and remained in that covmtry until 1866, when he
accompanied his parents, Richard and Elizabeth Stromer, on their
emigration to the new world. They located in Woodford county,
Illinois, where the father rented land, and Dirk H. Stromer worked
as a farm hand for three years, after which he was married and began
farming on his own account, renting land for six years. In 1875 he
came to Adams county, Nebraska, and the following year his parents
also removed here and from that time until their deaths made their
home Avith him. He purchas.ed railroad land in Hanover township
and at once began its cultivation and improvement. There were the
usual hardshijis of pioneer life to be encountered, conveniences were
few and there was much hard work to be done, but as the years passed
he had the satisfaction of seeing his farm brought to a higher state of
development and of knowing that its value was constantly increasing.
From time to time he purchased other land, owning in all one thousand
five hundred acres. He followed general farming, raising both grain
and stock, until January, 1906, when he retired from active life and
took up his residence in Hastings, where his demise occurred on the
24th of October, 1914.
jNlr. Stromer was married JNIay 3, 1868, in Illinois to IMiss Johanna
Williams, a daughter of John and INIattie Williams, natives of Ger-
many, where the father passed away. The mother subsequently re-
moved to the United States and died in Woodford county, Illinois,
where she is buried. INIr. and jMrs. Stromer became the parents of
eight children. Alma, who was born on the 23d of November, 1870,
in Illinois, gave her hand in marriage to Wyatt Meester, a son of John
and Jennie IMeester, of Hanover township, and they have five chil-
dren. Eliza, who was born on the 12th of February, 1873, in Illinois,
is the wife of Sam Yeatman, who is farming in Hanover township,
146 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Adams county, and they have three children. Johann, who was born
in Adams comity on the 15th of February, 1876, and is now living in
Home City, Kansas, married JNIatilda Arnast and has two children.
George was born on the 7th of October, 1878, and is now engaged in
farming in Hanover township. He married Anna Kohl, by whom he
has three children. Andrew, whose birth occurred on the 31st of ]May,
1881, and who is living in Hanover township, married Kate INIeester
and has tlu-ee children. Henry, who was born on the 17th of Sep-
tember, 1883, and is now a resident of Hastings, married Lulu Kohl.
William was born on the 26th of December, 1885, and is engaged in
farming in Hanover township. He married Sarah Hardenstein and
they have five children. Edward, who was born on the 14th of Novem-
ber, 1888, married Elsie Sabbal and resides in Hanover township.
Mr. Stromer supported the democratic party at the polls and
served acceptably in a number of township offices. His religious faith
was that of the Evangelical Lutheran church and he helped to build
the house of worship. His success was due to his determination, his
untiring industry and his good management and all who knew him
recognized in him a citizen of sterling worth. His widow, who is well
and favorably known in Hastings, resides at No. 310 West Fourth
street.
DAVID 3IAYS.
David Mays has resided upon his farm in AVest Blue township
for many years and has gained recognition as an efficient and energetic
agriculturist. He was born in Wood county, Ohio, on the 26th of
November, 1852, but when he was four j'ears old was taken by his
parents to JNIercer county, Illinois, the journey being made by wagon.
The father rented a farm there and devoted his time and attention to
its operation for eight years. Subsequent to his demise his widow
removed with her children to Kosciusko county, Indiana.
David ]Mays received but a limited education as it was necessary
for him to go to work when he was quite young. He was employed
as a farm hand until he was twenty-three years of age, when he began
renting land, so continuing until 1887. In the spring of 1888 he
came to Adams county, Nebraska, and settled upon his present farm
in West Blue township, which he had purchased from the railroad
several j'ears previouslj'. Two years later, in the spring of 1890, his
mother, sister and two brothers also came to this county and made
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 147
their home with him for a time. The mother passed away in 1899
and the other members of the f amilj^ married and estabh'shed homes
of their own. JNIr. JNIays has brought his farm to a high state of de-
velopment and the excellent condition in Avhich everything is kept
testifies to his energy and good management. He concentrates his
energies upon the cultivation of his land and derives a substantial
income from his labors.
]Mr. JNIays supports the democratic party at the polls but has
never taken a very active part in i^ublic affairs. His religious faith
is that of the Christian church. He has worked hard since boyhood
and has not only gained a competence for himself but also provided
for his brothers and sister until they were able to take care of them-
selves. His many sterling qualities have commended him to the warm
regard and the respect of those who have come into contact with him
and he is one of the valued residents of his township.
WILLIAM R. DUER.
Death often removes from our midst those whom we can ill afford
to lose and such Avas the feeling in Adams county when William R.
Duer i^assed to the home beyond. He was born at Baton Rouge,
Louisiana, on the 12th of INIay, 1836, and in the maternal line came
from Scotch ancestry. He left Louisiana when his mother died and
made his Avay to the home of an uncle in Cincinnati, Ohio, after Avhich
he pursued his education in the schools of that city. He later re-
moved to Illinois and turned his attention to farming, following gen-
eral agricultural jnu-suits in that state for some years. In 1893 he
arrived in Hastings, Nebraska, after Avhich he lived retired, enjoying
a well earned rest. He had previously invested in farm lands in
Illinois and he continued the owner of property in that state up to
the time of his demise. In business affairs his judgment Avas sound
and his indefatigable industrj^ won him the success which ultimately
crowned his efforts and made him one of the well-to-do residents of
Hastings.
On ]May 9, 1861, ]\Ir. Duer was united in marriage to INIiss JMary
C. Brown, a daughter of Bedford and Caroline Brown, of Kentucky.
Their wedding was celebrated in Illinois and to them were born several
children: Robert H., who Avas employed as engineer in the state
Capitol of Illinois; Caroline A.; William S., who is engaged in fruit
raising in Oregon; John S., Avho is connected Avith the Stitt garage
148 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of Hastings; Charles B., living in New York city; and Bessie L., who
became the wife of John B. Klein and died on the 24th of May, 1911.
There are also five grandchildren.
The death of the husband and father occurred Februarj' 28, 1911,
and his remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at Hastings. He
was a member of the Presbyterian church and his political indorse-
ment was given to the republican party but he never sought nor
desired office of any kind, preferring to concentrate his energies ui:)on
his business affairs and jjerform his public duties as a private citizen.
He left to his family not only a comfortable competence but also the
priceless heritage of an untarnished name, which, according to the
wise man of old "is better to be chosen than great riches." JNIrs. Duer
still survives her husband and is now in her seventy-fifth year. She
is Avell known in Hastings, where she makes her home and where she
has a large circle of warm friends.
REV. HERIMAN F. RAMELOW.
Rev. Herman F. Ramelow, pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran
church of the JNIissouri synod at Kenesaw, is doing effective work for
the moral advancement of his community and the upbuilding of his
church and is held in high esteem. He was born on the 28th of
February, 1887, in Cook county, Illinois, a son of Herman and ]Mag-
dalena (Stiegemeyer) Ramelow, who are now residents of Thayer
county, Nebraska.
Rev. Herman F. Ramelow attended a parochial school in St. Louis
and also the parochial and public schools near Brazilton, Kansas. He
prepared for the ministry in Concordia College, at Springfield, Illinois,
graduating from the theological course in 1911. His first charge was
at Columbia^ Illinois, where he remained for two years, but in 1913
he came to Kenesaw, where he has since remained. He is not only
zealous in promoting the spiritual growth of the church but is also
capable in furthering its material interests, and he has the hearty
cooperation of his parishioners in carrying on the various phases of
church work. His influence has also been strongly felt in the com-
munity at large and he is always ready to support anj^ movement
which seeks to advance the cause of right and justice.
Rev. Ramelow was married on the 28th of December, 1911, to
]Miss Cornelia jMiessler, of Carlinville, Illinois, and they have a
daughter, Ruth. He takes a keen interest in public affairs and is a
REV. IIKRJIAX Y. KAMEIJIW
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 151
careful student of the political questions and issues of the day. He
votes independently, as he believes that by so doing he can best serve
the public welfare.
WILLIAM MADGETT.
William Madgett, mayor of Hastings and recognized as one of
the prominent representatives of the republican party in Nebraska,
has been well known in the business circles of his city for a number
of years as a prominent real estate dealer, handling important prop-
erty interests. He is a native son of New York, his birth having
occurred in Broome county on the 9th of Jul}', 1878, his parents being
James and JMary JNIadgett, of whom mention is made elsewhere in
this work. During his youthful days he was brought to the west and
he supplemented his district school training by further study in the
schools of Hastings. He began earning his living by selling papers
on the streets and, like many another self-made man, has risen to
prominence, becoming a leader of public thought and action. When
his school days were over he became identified with banking interests
and for' nine years occupied the position of accountant. He then went
to Holstein, Nebraska, where he organized the Holstein Bank, which
he conducted for a brief jjeriod. He then returned to Hastings and
opened a real estate office in connection with his brother. Since that
time he has continuously ojierated in the real estate field here, has
become the owner of valuable property, including one of the finest
buildings in the city, and has negotiated many important realty trans-
fers. His i)lans are well formulated, his enterprise is unfaltering and
his enthusiasm is contagious.
Mr. JNIadgett was married in 1899 to JNIiss Pauline E. Nance and
they have a little daughter who bears the mother's name. Their re-
ligious faith is that of the Episcopal chiu-ch, while in fraternal rela-
tions JNIr. JNIadgett is well known as a Consistory JNIason, a Mystic
Shriner and a member of the Knights of Pytliias. He has given his
political allegiance to the reiiublican party since age conferred upon
him the right of franchise and has taken a more and more active part
in politics as he has been aroused to the needs and demands of the
hour. In 1915 he was elected mayor of Hastings and is giving to the
city a businesslike, progressive administration based upon his tliorough
knowledge of municipal conditions and problems — problems for which
he finds a ready and correct solution. On account of friends urging
152 PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
him to do so he has become a candidate for the repubHcan nomination
for governor. His position is never an equivocal one. He stands
loyally for a cause in which he believes and he advocates woman suf-
frage; conservation of the state's natural resources, such as rivers,
streams and lakes for water power and irrigation purposes; loan of
state school money on Nebraska farm mortgages; a more thorough
and uniform system of public accounting, so the different offices will
have a check on each other; a commission to pass upon the constitu-
tionality and validity of proposed bills befoi'e they are enacted into
law by the legislature; and a good roads law requiring more and
better work done upon our public highways and providing that con-
vict labor and the proceeds shall be appropriated b}^ the state for such
purposes. Mr. ]\Iadgett regards a public office as a public trust and
his loyaltj^ and progressiveness in the office of mayor indicate the
course which he would follow should he become the state's chief
executive.
RAY SIPPLE.
Among the wide-awake and enterprising 3^oung business men of
Hastings is Raj^ Sipple, member of the Sipple Brothers Motor Com-
pany. Adams county numbers him among her native sons, his birth
having occurred in Holstein on the 4th of January, 1891. His par-
ents are C. A. and Ella Sipple, who came to Nebraska in pioneer times
and are still residents of this state. The father was engaged in the
grain and livestock business at Norman, Holstein and Kenesaw.
After acquiring his education by attendance at the public schools
through the period of his boyhood and early j'outh, Ray Sipple began
work upon his father's cattle ranch in Boone county and while thus
employed learned the value of industry, perseverance and determina-
tion. In ]\larch, 1914, he arrived in Hastings and in partnership with
his brother Earl established the Sipple Brothers JNIotor Company.
They handle the Ford cars for Adams county and also the Oldsmobile
in five counties. They also conduct a rejiair business and deal in auto
accessories. Both are active in the conduct and management of the
business and in addition thej^ employ five men. Thej^ occujjy a room
one hundred and twenty-five by forty-four feet in a two story brick
building and have built up a business of large and gratifying pro-
portions.
On the 8th of February, 1911, IVIr. Sipple was united in marriage
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 153
to Miss Cora Rice, a daughter of W. A, Rice. They attend the
Methodist church and in the social circles of the city occupy an enviable
position, having many warm friends in Hastings. JNIr. Sipple belongs
to the Conmiercial Club and his political allegiance is given to the
republican party. He is interested in all that pertains to the welfare
of the community and cooperates in many plans for the public good.
He represents one of the old and honored pioneer families of the
county and the work which was begun by his father in early days in
behalf of the county's development is being carried on by the son.
JAMES F. CROWLEY.
In no profession does advancement depend more entirely upon
individual merit and ability than in the law and that James F.
Crowley has gained recognition as a leading attorney is the result of
his close application, thorough studj^ and fidelity to the interests of
his clients. He was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, April 9, 1879, and is
a son of Jerome and Agnes (Carney) Crowley, who in the fall of
1884 left Iowa and came with their family to Hastings. Here the
father engaged in business as a wholesale grocer, continuing active in
that line until his death, which occurred in 190.5. His widow survives.
After attending the public schools James F. Crowley continued
his education in St. JNIary's College at St. JNIary's, Kansas, and after
reviewing the business situation with its varied possibilities along
industrial, agricultural, commercial and professional lines he de-
termined u^jon the practice of law as a life work. Accord-
ingly he began studying in the office of IMcCreary & Button at
Hastings and was admitted to the bar on the 13th of June, 1901. He
then entered upon the active practice of his profession, in which he
has made steady advance and is now accorded a liberal clientage that
has connected him with much imjiortant litigation heard in the courts
of his district. He is felicitous and clear in his statement, strong in
argument and logical in his reasoning, and the court records indicate
that he has won many verdicts favorable to his clients.
On the 10th of June, 1915, INIr. Crowley was married to Miss
Blanche Cantwell, a daughter of Thomas J. Cantwell. They are
Catholics in religious faith and Mr. Crowley belongs to Council No.
1123 of the Knights of Columbus. He has served as grand knight
and also as district deputy. He has membership with the Benevolent
Protective Order of Elks and he gives his political allegiance to the
154 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
republican party, taking an active interest in both county and state
politics. He has served as a member of the central committee and
for three terms filled the office of justice of the peace. He is fond
of outdoor life and, indulging his taste in that direction, secures
needed rest and recreation from the onerous duties of a professional
career. He is a member of the Bar Association and he enjoys the
confidence and high regard of his colleagues and contemporaries in
practice.
MORDECAI W. HENSLEY.
JNIordecai W. Henslej^ is well known in Kenesaw, where he is liv-
ing retired, and throughout the county is held in high respect and
esteem. Although at the time of the Civil war he was living in Ken-
tucky, where the sympathy with the Southern cause was very strong,
he served in the Union army as he believed that the north was
right. His birth occurred in Carter county, Kentucky, on the
10th of November, 1842, and his parents, Madison M. and Elizabeth
(Williams) Hensley, both passed away in that countJ^ He attended
a subscription school for a few months a year but much of his time
as a boy was given to helping with the work of the home farm. On
the 11th of June, 1861, when not yet nineteen years of age, he enlisted
in Company F, Fourteenth KentucW Volunteer Infantry, which
engaged in several skirmishes Avith bushwhackers in Carter covmty
before it was mustered into the United States service in November
of that year. ]Mr. Hensley particijiated in fighting around INIiddle
Creek, Kentucky, and Kingston, Georgia, and subsequently took
part in the Atlanta campaign and witnessed the fall of that city. He
was often in the thickest of the fight and saw General JNIcPherson
killed. After the fall of Atlanta he fought in the battle of Nashville
and in the engagements on the Tennessee river. On the 31st of Janu-
ary, 186.5, he was discharged at Louisa, Kentucky, and returned
home. For a long period after the close of hostilities feeling ran high
in that locality against all who had served in the Union armj^ but
IVIr. Hensley remained there five years in spite of the illwill which
most of his neighbors bore him. At length, however, fiftj^ men
banded together and attempted to capture him and it was with diffi-
culty that he escaped into the timber, reaching the Ohio river, which
he crossed. He decided never to return to Carter county and went
to Andi-ew county, Missouri, where he purchased land, which he
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 155
operated for ten j'ears. His next removal was to Claj^ county, Kan-
sas, where he farmed for five years, and at the end of that time he
located in Kearney county, Nebraska. After carrying on agricul-
tural pursuits there for a similar period he took up his residence in
Kenesaw, where he still lives. While actively engaged in farming
he gained recognition as an efficient and successful agTiculturist
and the competence Avhich he accunmlated now enables him to enjoy
a period of leisure.
INIr. Hensley was married on the 15th of October, 1865, to Miss
Selah Ann JNIcGinnis, of Boyd county, Kentucky, who was born on
the 6th of August, 1843, and died in Kenesaw on the 16th of Janu-
ary, 1892. To their union were born four children, of whom three
are still living, namely: jNIadison M., who is operating the lighting
plant at Kenesaw; Joseph D., at home; and Mordecai W., a resident
of Grafton, Nebraska.
JNIr. Henslej^ has always supported the republican party, believ-
ing firmly in its jDrinciples. He is identified with the local Grand
Army post and greatly enjoys meeting with other Union veterans.
In March, 1865, he was given the entered apprentice degree in Can-
nonsburg Lodge, No. 383, A. F. & A. M., in June of that year
became a Fellowcraft JNIason and on the 31st of August was made
a JNIaster JNIason. At that time there was much feeling against the
Masons in his locality and the meetings had to be held in secret. He
now holds membership in Kenesaw Lodge, No. 144, of which he is a
charter member. He exemjilifies in his life the teachings of Masonry
and, moreover, has always been characterized by a strong public spirit
which has led him to promote the general welfare in every way possi-
ble.
JOHN P. MADGETT.
John P. INIadgett is a partner in the real estate firm of ]\Iadgett
Brothers and as such occupies an enviable position in the business
circles of Hastings. In this connection, moreover, he is a partner in
the ownership of the INIadgett building, one of the fine structures of
the city. He was born at Binghamton, New York, on the 3d of
March, 1879, and is a son of James and INIary (Hayes) Madgett,
who were natives of Ireland. The father was born in County Kerry
in 1823 and died in Hastings at the very advanced age of ninety-one
years. The mother was born in County Cork in May, 1845, and is
156 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
still living in Hastings. James Madgett followed farming on the
Emerald isle and afterward engaged in shipbuilding in England. In
1866 he came to the United States, settling first in New York, where
he engaged in railroad work, but after thirteen years or in 1879
he ai-rived in Adams county, Nebraska, where he purchased
land, casting his lot with the pioneer settlers of this section of the
country. His first home was a half sod house and half dugout and
there was a lean-to barn upon the place. He engaged in farming
with an ox team, his place being on 32 ISIile Creek in Denver town-
ship. Upon that farm he reared his family of six children, of whom
John P. was the youngest. For many years the father carried on
general farming and stock raising but in 1886 retired from active
business life, although he continued to reside on his farm for some
time. Later he removed to Hastings, where his death occurred. His
religious faith was that of the Catholic church.
John P. JNIadgett pursued his education in the district schools, in
the city schools of Hastings and in Hastings College. He started out
in life by selling papers on the streets of Hastings when a mere boy
and at fifteen years of age he began work in the First National Bank.
It was subsequent to that time that he attended college, for he had
come to realize the value and worth of education as a preparation
for life's jjractical and responsible duties. In early manhood he fol-
lowed general office work and bookkeeping, remaining with the First
National Bank for sixteen years, during which time he advanced
through intermediate positions to that of assistant cashier, and his
long connection with the bank plainly indicated his fidelity as well as
his capabilit}\ In 1911 he joined his brother, ^Nlayor William JNIad-
gett, in the real estate, insurance, loan and abstract business and they
have since been active and successful along that line. They had laid
out additions to the city of Hastings, have also handled lands in
Oklahoma, Texas and Canada, and in addition to his operations in
the real estate and loan field JNIr. JNIadgett is a stockholder in the
First National Bank.
As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life JNIr. JNIadgett
chose JNIiss JNIay Belle Parks, her j^arents being J. J. and Anna B.
(Barton) Parks, who are natives of New Jersey and Georgia,
respectively, and make their home in Hastings. The father, who came
to Adams county in 1890, here devoted his attention to general agri-
cultural pursuits for a decade but during the past sixteen years has
lived retired. Our subject and his wife have a son, John Patrick, Jr.,
who was born on the 2d of October, 1910.
In his political views JNIr, JNIadgett is an earnest republican, well
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 157
informed on the questions and issues of the day, but has never been
an office seeker. He is well known in fraternal circles, holding mem-
bership in the IMasonic lodge, the Royal Arch chapter, the council and
the Knights Templar commandery, in the last named sei-ving as cap-
tain general. He is also an active member of the consistory and he
belongs to Sesostris Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Lincoln. He is
also identified with the Knights of Pythias, of which he is a past
grand chancellor, having been unanimously chosen for the position
of grand chancellor for the years 1913 and 1914. He has also been
grand prelate and grand vice chancellor. His is an excellent record
in the various relations of life, for fidelity to duty has been one of his
watchword and progress has characterized him at every point in his
career.
CLARENCE EUGENE KIDDER, M. D.
Dr. Clarence Eugene Kidder, a practicing physician and surgeon
of Holstein, Nebraska, Avas born in Winnebago county, Illinois,
October 3, 1881, his parents being B. F. and M. A. (Hewitt) Kidder.
The father served for three years as a soldier in the Seventy-fourth
Illinois Infantry during the Civil war and after the close of hostili-
ties settled in Winnebago county, Illinois, Avhere he remained until
1885, when he removed with his family to eastern Colorado, there
taking up his abode upon a farm. He afterward became a resident
of Greeley and it was during the period of residence of the family in
that place that Dr. Kidder attended the graded schools, the high
school and the normal school. He determined upon the practice of
medicine as a life work and in 1910 entered upon preparation for the
profession at Cotner University in Lincoln, Nebraska, from Avhich
institution he was graduated in June, 1914. On the 1.5th of July of
the same year he took up his abode at Holstein and in the intervening-
period, covering about two years, has built up a large, extensive and
gratifying practice. During the period in which he was pursuing his
studies in Lincoln he was for eighteen months associated with the city
physician there and thus gained broad and valuable practical experi-
ence. He worked his way through college and thereby displayed the
elemental streng-th of his character, his determination to secure an
education being indicative of the success that will undoubtedly come
to him as the years go by.
On the 29th of July, 1914, Dr. Kidder was married to Mrs.
158 PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
]Martha Herrick, of Lincoln, and thej- have one cliild, Jeannette
Helen. They hold membership in the Evangelical church and they
IJi-ominently known socially, having gained many warm friends during
the period of their connection with Holstein. In his political views
Dr. Kidder is a republican, Avhile fraternally he is connected with the
JNIasonic lodge at Lincoln and with the Knights of Pythias lodge at
Osceola, Nebraska. He has many strong and admirable character-
istics and by his well defined activity and laudable ambition is work-
ing his way steadily upward.
C. G. INGRAHAM.
C. G. Ingraham, manager of the manufacturing department of
J. H. Haney & Company and thus active in the business cn-cles of
Hastings, is also a prominent figure in connection with political activ-
ity and has served his city as mayor. He was born in Jackson county,
jNIissouri, on the 2d of December, 1868, and is a son of Jacob and
Phoebe (Gallahue) Ingraham. The father was a farmer bj' occupa-
tion and at the time of the Civil war put aside all business and per-
sonal considerations to serve as a volunteer in an Ohio regiment of the
LTnion army, rendering valiant aid to his covmtry during the darkest
hour in its history. Both he and his wife have now passed away.
C. G. Ingraham, who was one of a family of seven daughters and
two sons, pursued his education in the public schools of Kansas, the
family having removed from JNIissouri to that state during his early
childhood. He supplemented his public-school course by study in
the normal college at Fort Scott, Kansas, and afterward learned the
saddlery business, working at his trade in Fort Scott, Kansas. The
year 1891 witnessed bis arrival in Hastings, where he continued to
represent the same firm. He remained for five years or until financial
conditions, caused bj^ the continued and excessive droughts in the
state, compelled the closing of the shop. He then returned to Kansas
and engaged in farming on the old homestead for five years. In 1900
he again entered the employ of J. H. Hane^^ & Company and has
since represented the firm, being one of its most trusted and its oldest
employes in years of continuous service. He is thoroughly acquainted
with every phase of the business and has ^\orked his way steadily
upward until he occuijies the responsible position of manager of the
manufacturing department.
On the 15th of August, 1900, Mr. Ingraham was united in mar-
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 159
riage to INliss Effie M. Worthy, a daughter of William C. Worthy.
They have one child, JNIary Corrine. The religious faith of the fam-
ily is that of the ]Methodist church. In his political views Mr.
Ingraham is a democrat and is a recognized leader of his party in
Hastings and this section of the state. He is now acting as chair-
man of the democratic county central committee and also as president
of the Wilson & ^Marshall Club. He served for two terms as a mem-
ber of the city council and was then elected mayor of Hastings, dur-
ing which time he made an excellent record for efRciencj^ and for
businesslike methods in conducting municipal affairs. During his
administration there was passed an ordinance requiring railroads to
install and maintain at their own expense lights at the crossings. An
excellent traffic ordinance was also j^assed, and over one hundred
electroliers were installed, ninetj^ intersection lights and one hundred
and fourteen bracket lights, nine miles of new line and three hundred
and fifty new services, while a reduction of almost fifty per cent was
made in the electric rates. jNIr. Ingraham also succeeded in reducing
the indebtedness of the city, which at the time he took office on the
8th of April, 1913, amounted to twenty-two thousand five hundred
and seventy-four dollars. jNIoreover, he so managed financial inter-
ests that the close of his term saw an excellent balance in the treasury.
Many other evidences of his tangible public spirit might be cited,
but these are sufficient to indicate that his administration was one
which wrought for great good to the public. ]Mr. Ingraham is also
a believer in woman suffrage. Fraternally he is a Royal Arch ISIason
and a Modern Woodman. He has a wide acquaintance and all who
know him sjjeak of him in terms of high regard. Even those who oppose
him f)olitically acknowledge his honesty and recognize his devotion to
the public welfare. He is straightforward, reliable and thoroughly
honest in all that he undertakes and he never hesitates to express his
convictions clearly and unequivocally.
J. W. LINGER.
J. W. Unger is a prominent farmer and live stock dealer of
Adams county, having handled much blooded stock, and in this con-
nection he has done much to improve the grade of stock raised in this
part of the state. He now makes his home in Juniata and still gives
personal supervision to the management of his business interests,
although he is now in the seventy-eighth year of his age. He was
160 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, August 15, 1838, a son of
John and Elizabeth (Faust) Ujiger, both of whom were natives of
Pennsylvania and representatives of old Pennsylvania Dutch fami-
lies. The mother died during the early boyhood of her son, J. W.,
and the home was broken up. In his seventeenth j'ear he came west,
locating at Pawpaw, Lee county, Illinois, where he remained until,
aroused by a spirit of patriotism, he enlisted in 1862 in defense of the
old flag, joining Company K of the Seventy-fifth Illinois Regiment
to serve for three years or during the war. He remained with his
command until discharged at the close of hostilities. He had been
wounded in the battle of Stone River, a ball striking a finger on his
right hand. He never left his company, however. He took part in
the battle of Perryville, where after an hour and a half's hard fight-
ing there were only two hundred and fifty men left out of the thou-
sand who entered the engagement. He participated also in the bat-
tles of Nashville, Chickamauga, Pine IMountain, Lookout INIountain
and Ringgold and with his command proceeded into Alabama and
took part in a number of engagements in that state. He was also in
the battle of Love joy Station, of Franklin, Tennessee, Libert)^ Gap
and ^Vhiteside and Avhen the war was over he returned to his home
with a most creditable military record, having proven his fidelity and
his bravery on many a hotly contested battlefield.
For some time after the war ISh: Unger remained a resident of
Illinois and then removed to Chariton county, JNIissouri, where he
spent twelve years. On the expiration of that period he established
his home in JeflPerson count}^ Nebraska, where he remained for ten
years, and in 1892 he went to Oxford, Nebraska, but in 1893 removed
to Prosser, continuing his residence at that place for nine or ten
years, devoting his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He
then came to Juniata, where he has since resided save for a period of
five years spent in the city of Hastings and two and one-half years in
Colorado. He has always followed farming and is one of the most
enterprising and progressive agriculturists of this part of the state.
Ever a lover of good horses, he has kept some fine blooded stock and
was one of the first in this part of the state to invest in blooded im-
ported stable horses. He has likewise engaged in raising fine hogs and
both BraHches of his business' have proven profitable. He is today
th^ owner of one hundred and sixty acres of valuable farm land near
INIaywood in Lincoln county. His business affairs have ever been
carefully conducted and well directed energy has brought him success.
In 1862 JNIr. Unger was united in marriage to ]Miss Rebecca Brit-
ton and they became the parents of four children; John Sherman,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 161
living in Colorado; Susie, the wife of Ed Carroll, of Juniata; Ada,
who gave her hand in marriage to George Pratte, of Juniata; and
Louie, who is the wife of Lester Fairbanks of this county. The wife
and mother passed away in August, 1895, and her death was deeply
regretted not only by her immediate family but also by many
friends.
In politics Mr. Unger has been a lifelong republican, always
indorsing the party since age conferred upon him the right of fran-
chise. He belongs to Hastings Post, G. A. R., thus maintaining
pleasant relations with his old army comrades, and he likewise belongs
to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his religious faith
is that of the JNIethodist Episcopal church. Those who know him
esteem him highly, for his has been an upright career characterized
by public-spirited citizenship, by enterprise and industry in business,
by reliability in all trade transactions and by strict honor in liis rela-
tions with his fellowmen.
WILLIAM M. DUTTON.
William M. Dutton, manager of the wholesale saddlery house of
J. H. Haney & Company and thus active in one of the foremost busi-
ness enterprises of Hastings, was born in Oskaloosa, Iowa, on the 1st
of JNIarch, 1859, and is a son of Basil T. and Mary A. (JNIendell)
Dutton. The father was a native of IMarietta, Ohio, and the mothei-'s
birth occurred in Wellsburg, West Virginia. ]Mr. Dutton was a con-
tractor and in early life removed westward to Iowa, making his home
for a considerable period in Oskaloosa, where he was not only active
in business as a contractor but was also a leading member of the Bap-
tist church.
AVilliam M. Dutton completed his education in the Oskaloosa
high school and there received his business training, making his initial
step in business in Oskaloosa in connection with merchandising. In
1886 he removed to Nebraska and with J. H. Haney and W. A.
McKay organized the J. H. Haney & Company and has since been in
active control of the business. It is one of the most extensive and
important manufacturing and industrial enterprises of this part of
the state. He thoroughly understands the trade in every department
and is thus able to direct the labors of the employes so that they pro-
duce maximum results with minimum efforts. He is also interested
162 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
in the firm of J. H. Haney & Company at Omaha, wholesale manu-
facturers of saddlery and harness.
In 1887 ]Mr. Button was united in marriage to Miss Kitty INI. J.
Loughridge, a daughter of James P. and Emilj^ (Bean) Loughridge.
To them have been born four children, as follows: Florence JNIay,
who is a graduate of the high school, ]\Iilwaukee-Downer College and
the University of Nebraska and who is now the wife of Barton
Greene, an attorney of Lincoln, by whom she has one child ; George
Reynolds, who is engaged in business with his father at Hastings;
Armilda, a senior in the high school; and William, Jr., a soi^homore
high school student.
In politics Mr. Dutton is independent and feels himself in no way-
bound by party ties. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of
Pythias. His attention has been given in undivided manner to his
business affairs and since 1886 he has figured continuously and pronii-
neatly in harness manufacturing circles of central Nebraska.
SAMUEL ALEXANDER.
Among the pioneers of Adams county was Samuel Alexander,
who engaged in homesteading for some time. He became the first
postmaster of Hastings and in the discharge of his duties Avas eflicient
and courteous, thus gaining the commendation of his fellow citizens.
He was born January 16, 1842, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a
son of William and Agnes (Black) Alexander and was of Irish
extraction. His education was received in the common schools of
Clarinda, Iowa, and in early manhood he joined the Union army,
serving at the front until he was honorably discharged in 1864. Later
in that year he came to Adams county and took up a claim Avhere
Hastings now stands and he was also one of the early settlers of Lin-
coln. He engaged in farming and proved very successful in that con-
nection and after the town of Hastings was established took a very
active jiart in public afi^airs. He was the first postmaster of the town,
was a member of the city coimcil and was elected maj^or on the temper-
ance ticket, serving in that office for four years. He also held other
minor jjositions of trust and at all times proved a capable and consci-
entious official. He was not only interested in politics and municipal
government but also in the moral and educational advancement of
his communit}' and was one of the leaders in the establishment of
Hastings College.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 163
In 1870 JNIr. Alexander was united in marriage to jNIiss Harriet
R. Phillips, a daughter of Russell and Rachel (Bristol) Phillips.
She is the only survivor of a f amilj^ of eight children. Although born
in Erie, Pennsylvania, she attended school in Nebraska and Iowa,
her family being pioneers of those states. By her marriage she became
the mother of five children : Agnes, who is the wife of William Duer,
of Sutherlin, Oregon, and has three children; Rachel, who is now
JNIrs. Joe Webster, of Lincoln, and has a daughter; Esther H., who
gave her hand in marriage to Herbert Young, of Cleveland, Ohio,
and has two living children and one deceased; Frances, who married
George Van Antwerp and has a son; and Samuel R., a resident of
Montana.
JNIr. Alexander indorsed the principles of the republican party
but felt at liberty to vote independently if he considered the candi-
date of the opposing party better fitted for the office in question.
He gave his religious allegiance to the United Presbyterian church
and was always one of the first to champion a movement along the
line of moral jirogress. He was an honored member of the Pioneers
of Nebraska and for many years was a witness of the development
of this part of the state, residing here from 1864 until his death in
April, 1908. He is buried at Hastings. Although he has passed
away, the influence of his life and his work is still felt and his many
friends cherish his memory.
JOHN A. LAWLER.
John A. Lawler, devoting his energies to law jiractice at Has-
tings, is one of the younger members of the bar who has already
attained a j)osition that manj' another representative of the profes-
sion might well envy. ■ He was born in Gladstone, INIichigan, on the
18th of January, 1889, a son of Thomas C. and ]Matilda J. Lawler,
the former special agent and insurance adjuster. The family located
in Hastings in 1900 and the parents still remain residents of this
city.
John A. Lawyer was a lad of eleven years when the family
removed to Hastings and in the public schools he continued his edu-
cation, while later he became a student in the Kearney IMilitary Acad-
emy, from which he was graduated with the class of 1910. He then
entered upon the study of law in the L^niversity of Nebraska, com-
pleting his course by graduation in 1913. He then opened his office
164 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
in Hastings and has been very successful in following his profession.
Along with those qualities indispensable to the lawyer — a keen, rapid,
logical mind, plus the business sense and a ready capacity for hard
work, he brought to the starting point of his career certain rare gifts
— eloquence of language and a strong personality. An excellent
presence, an earnest, dignified manner, marked strength of character,
a thorough grasp of the law and the ability to accurately aj)ply its
principles are factors in his elFectiveness as an advocate.
In his political views Mr. Lawler is a democrat and was one of
the organizers and served as first president of the Young JNIen's
Democratic Club of Adams county during the last campaign. In
November, 1914, he was elected justice of the peace on the democratic
ticket and is now filling that position. In religious faith he is an
Episcopalian and is serving as vestryman and treasurer of St. ]\Iark's
Episcopal church. In Masonry he has attained the third degree in
the blue lodge and in his life he exemplifies the beneficent spirit of
the craft. He also belongs to the Hastings Bar Association, of
which he is the secretary. He is regarded by contemporaries and col-
leagues, as well as by the general public, as one of the rising young
lawyers of his part of the state and already his position is a most
creditable and enviable one. He was a candidate for nomination at
the April, 1916, primaries of the democratic party for county attor-
ney.
EDWIN SMITH.
Edwin Smith, a retired farmer residing in Hastings, is widely
known throughout the county and his sterling worth is indicated in
the fact that those who have been most closely associated with him
are his stanchest friends. He was born in New York in 1842 and is
a son of John and Keziah (Hallock) Smith, both also natives of
that state. He attended the common schools until fifteen years of
age and in 1863, when twenty-one years old, enlisted in Company G,
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, having
removed to Marshall county, Illinois, earlier in that year. He
remained with his command until honorably discharged from the
military service on the 28th of October, 1864, when he returned to
Illinois. He continued to farm there until 1876, in which year he
came to Adams county, Nebraska, and bought eighty acres of land in
Ayr township. He devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits and
lived upon his farm until 1905, when he removed to Hastings, where
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 165
he has since lived. He was very industrious and as the years passed
his well directed labors yielded him such large returns that he was
able to accumulate a competence that now enables him to enjoy a
period of leisure.
Mr. Smith was married in 1882 to ]Mrs. Isabelle (Herlinger)
Campbell. By her former marriage she had a son, Ira, who was
born on the 2d of June, 1876, in Pennsjdvania but was brought by
his parents to Adams county in 1878. He attended the country
schools until he entered the high school at Hastings and after com-
pleting the course there continued his studies in the University of
Nebraska at Lincoln, graduating from the Liberal Arts College of
that institution in 1901. He devoted his life to the profession of
teaching and was for some time superintendent of schools at Nelson,
Nebraska, and also taught summer schools at Geneva, Nebraska.
His untimely death occurred on the 25th of August, 1906. He was
married in 1902 to JNIiss Anna Stein, a daughter of John Stein, an
early settler of Adams county, and to them was born a daughter,
Dolores, whose birth occurred in 1903. She and her mother are now
living in Hastings. ]\Irs. Smith died in Hastings in 1906. In 1908
Mr. Smith was again married, jNIrs. Sarah (Glazier) Garries becom-
ing his wife. She Avas born in Ireland in 1848 but in 1852 accom-
panied her parents to America, the family home being established
first in Canada. Subsequently a removal was made to JNIichigan and
in that state she was married to Charles Garries, a farmer who about
1888 removed with his family to Adams county, Nebraska. He
became the owner of a good farm six miles north of Hastings and
resided there until 1905, when he retired and moved to Hastings,
where he died not long afterward. To him and his wife were born
six children, four sons and two daughters. William Henry, who was
born in 1864, is an evangelist and is living in Falls City, Nebraska.
He has two children. George EdAvard, whose birth occurred in 1867,
is an implement dealer of Bentley, Alberta, Canada, and is married
and has seven children. John Hollis was born in 1869 and is farming
four miles northwest of Hastings. He is married and has a daughter.
Rosa Anne, born in 1872, became the wife of Robert Eenfield, of
Hastings, and died in 1904, leaving two children. jNIary Elizabeth,
who was born in 1874, is the wife of Elmer Stedman, of Denver and
has one child. Arthur Hugh, born in 1881, is farming near Caster,
Alberta, Canada, and is married and has four children.
JMr. Smith is a democrat in his political belief and served for a
number of years as school treasurer and township assessor and treas-
urer. He is a member of Silas A. Strickland Post, No. 13, Civil ^Var
166 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Veterans, and has held all of the offices, including that of commander,
in which he is now serving. The JNIethodist Episcopal church profits
by his support and all measures seeking the moral advancement of
his commmiity receive his cooperation. The success which he has
gained is the direct result of his enterprise and careful management
and his many friends are glad that he is now able to enjoy a period
of leisure.
J. F. GANGWISH.
J. F. Gangwish, who carries on general farming in Juniata town-
ship, was born in Baden, Germany, on the 31st of May, 1855, his
parents being J. F. and ]Mary (Earth) Gangwish, who were also
natives of the fatherland, where they spent their entire lives, ]Mr.
Gangwish devoting his attention to general farming. In the family
were five children, namely: J. F., of this review; Victor E., a resi-
dent of Adams county, Nebraska; Karl, who is deceased; Bernhardt,
living in New York city ; and IMary, who is still in Germany.
J. F. Gangwish obtained his education in the common schools of
Germany, where he also attended high school. He came to the United
States in 1871, settling in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and in that sec-
tion of the country worked in the coal mines and also engaged in
railroad work. There he remained until 1879, when he came to
Nebraska, casting in his lot with the pioneer settlers of Adams county.
He took up his abode on section 27, township 7, range 11, and under-
took the task of converting the wild land into prodvictive fields. As
the 5'ears went on his labors were attended with good results and his
farm became a valuable property. He added many fine modern im-
provements, erected an attractive residence, a substantial barn, and
also a silo and has built a fine elevator thirty by forty feet with twenty-
one-foot studding. He now owns three hundred and twenty acres of
rich and productive land and his farm is one of the most thoroughly
modern in its equipment and accessories. He has given much atten-
tion to the raising of high grade stock, which has constituted an im-
portant feature of his business. He is also a director of the Farmers
Elevator Comi^any of Juniata, with which he has been oflScially con-
nected for twelve years.
In 1885 ]\Ir. Gangwish was united in marriage to INIiss Rosalia
IVIecham and to them have been born thirteen children, as follows:
Elmer, who lives a mile north of his father's farm; Harrison, who
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 169
lives two miles south of the home place; Carl and Earl, twins, the
latter living a mile southwest of Juniata ; Bertha, who gave her hand
in marriage to C. W. Leopold; Albert, Rebecca and Raljjh, who are
still under the parental roof; Letha and Retha, twins, also at home;
Meton, at home ; Af ton, who is deceased ; and Fern.
In his political views Mr. Gangwish is now a democrat but for-
merly gave his allegiance to the republican party. He has served as
justice of the peace and as road boss and is always interested in plans
and measures for the public good. He was reared in the faith of the
Catholic church and fraternally he is connected with the JNIodern
Woodmen and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He has
never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the new
world, for in this country he found the opportunities which he sought
and in their improvement has advanced steadily, becoming one of the
substantial and prosperous farmers of the district in which he lives.
Wherever known he is held in high esteem and most of all where he
is best known.
COLONEL H. HANSELL.
IMercantile interests find a worthy reiiresentative in Colonel H.
Hansell of the Vastine Hansell Clothing Companj', conducting busi-
ness on West Second street in Hastings. He is wide-awake, alert
and enteri^rising and his well defined plans have carried him steadily
forward to success. He was born in one of the oldtime log cabins
of Franklin county, Iowa, on the 26th of December, 1871, his par-
ents being George W. and Laura B. (Smith) Hansell. The father
was born in Pennsjdvania in the year 1830 and passed away in 1887,
while the mother, who Avas born in Rhode Island in 1836, is still liv-
ing at Hamilton, Iowa, and has almost reached the eightieth mile-
stone on life's journey. The father was a farmer by occupation and
on making his way westward to lo^a settled in Franklin county. He
had made the journey on horseback and after reaching his destina-
tion traded his horse for oxen, with which he did his farm work, hitch-
ing the team to a breaking plow with which he turned the first fur-
rows in the fields. He lived in a log liouse and continued to spend
his remaining days in that district. He took an active part in all the
affairs of the community, filled the position of county supervisor,
gave his political allegiance to the republican party and was a con-
sistent and helpful member of the IMethodist church, aiding in organ-
170 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
izing the church near his home. His business aif airs were carefully
and conscientiously conducted and success attended his labors. He
became the owner of considerable land and won a place among the
extensive stockmen of the district, raising shorthorn cattle and Ches-
ter White hogs. His efforts did not a little to improve the grade of
stock raised in his part of the state.
Colonel H. Hansell was the youngest in a family of four children.
He attended the district schools of Fi'anklin county and also the
Highland Park Business College at Des jNIoines, Iowa. He spent
his boyhood days upon the home farm and after becoming familiar
with all the duties incident to the work of the fields engaged in mer-
chandising at Hansell, Iowa, a town founded by his father. In that
field of activity he continued active until he removed Avestward to
York county, Nebraska, in ISdi, at which time he became the cash-
ier and a stockholder and director of the First State Bank of Lush-
ton, Nebraska. In 1897 he removed to Bradshaw, where he accepted
a similar position in the Bank of Bradshaw, and in April, 1898, he
arrived in Hastings, where he became connected with the cold storage
business as a member of the Hastings Produce Company. That
business was eventually merged into the Beatrice Creamery Com-
panj% of which JNIr. Hansell became a stockholder and the local mana-
ger, continuing his activity in that field through eighteen years. He
became connected with the Vastine Hansell Clothing Company when
he withdrew from the creamer}^ business and he is also president of
the Hastings Brewing Comj^any, of which he was one of the original
stockholders. The clothing business is now growing steadily and
their patronage is well deserved, for their methods measure up to the
highest commercial standards.
In 1893 JNIr. Hansell was united in marriage to JMiss Ora JM. Gib-
son, a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of Alexander J. and
Hannah Gibson, both natives of Pennsylvania. jNIr. Gibson partici-
pated in the Civil war as a gunner in an artillery regiment from 1861
until 1865 and after the close of hostilities removed from Illinois to
Iowa. In the latter state he successfully carried on general agricul-
tural pursuits until 1891, when he embarked in the mercantile busi-
ness at Hansell, Iowa. He is a man of retiring disposition but recog-
nized worth and is noAv living with his wife at Hampton, Iowa. ]Mr.
and JNIrs. Hansell have a son, Paul G., who was born on the 27th
of July, 1906.
]\Ir. Hansell belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks
but otherwise has no membership connections with lodge, church or
club and he is without political aspiration, preferring to concentrate
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 171
his vmdivided attention upon his business interests, which are wisely
directed and which have resulted in the attainment of a gratifying-
measure of prosperity.
WILLIAM C. HINES, D. V. M.
Dr. William C. Hines, of Kenesaw, has gained a large and
profitable practice as a veterinarian and has won high standing pro-
fessionally. He was born on the 10th of ]May, 1880, in Science Hill,
Pulaski county, Kentucky, a son of Shelton and Nancy (De Board)
Hines. The mother, who was born near Bethel, Casey county, Ken-
tucky, in 1847, died in 1882 and the father subsequently married jNIiss
Siotha Carson, a daughter of George and Polly (Girdler) Carson,
who spent their entire lives in Kentucky. Mrs. Hines is still living
and makes her home with the Doctor.
Shelton Hines, the Doctor's father, was born in Pulaski county,
Kentucky, December 22, 1845, and at the time of the Civil war en-
listed on the 4th of August, 1863, as a private of Company D,
Thirteenth Kentucky Cavalry, which fought on the Union side, serv-
ing two years and two months. At the battle of King Saltville, Vir-
ginia, he was wounded in the hand and thigh by the same bullet and
later in the battle was captured by the Confederates. He was con-
fined in Libby prison for seven months and seventeen days and during
that time was almost starved. The privations which he endured there
so weakened him that he was almost helpless for two years after his
release as for twenty-one months after he was wounded he was unable
to walk. He was honorably discharged October 23, 1865, on the sur-
geon's certificate of disability. At length he regained his strength
and about 1870 purchased a farm, which he operated until 1903. In
that j^ear he retired and removed to Kenesaw, Nebraska, where he
resided until his demise on the 10th of November, 1908. His political
allegiance was given to the republican party and his religious belief
was that of the JNIethodist Episcopal church.
Dr. Hines received a common school education in Kentucky and
after leaving school worked on the home farm for a time and also
partially learned the carpenter's trade. In June, 1898, he removed
to Kenesaw, Nebraska, and for two years thereafter was employed
as a farm hand. The next two years were spent as a fireman on the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, during which time he made
his home in jNIcCook, Nebraska. Later he went to ]Marshall, Texas,
172 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
and for six weeks worked for the Texas & Pacific Railroad. Dur-
ing the following ten years he was in the employ of the Chicago &
Northwestern Railroad as fireman, engineer and brakeman. Hav-
ing determined to enter the veterinary profession, he next spent three
3'ears at the JMcKillip Veterinary College in Chicago and was gradu-
ated from that institution in A^jril, 1912, with the degree of D. V. ]M.
He at once located at Kenesaw, Nebraska, where he has since engaged
in the active practice of his jirofession. He has demonstrated his
ability and although he has only been in practice for about four years
he has secured a j)atronage that would be a credit to a man of much
longer experience.
Dr. Hines supj)orts the republican party at the polls and is now
serving acceptably as a member of the toAvn board. He holds mem-
bership in the ^Methodist Episcopal church and casts his influence on
the side of righteousness and justice. He is well known in fraternal
circles, belonging to the JMasonic order, in which he has taken thirty-
two degrees, to the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Alpha
Sigma, a college fraternity. He is also a member of the Brother-
hood of Locomotive Firemen and Engineers. He has made many
warm fi'iends in Kenesaw since his arrival here and is one of the most
higlily esteemed and respected residents of the town.
ALFRED METCALFE CLARK.
Alfred ]Metcalfe Clark is now the oldest druggist in Hastings in
3^ears of continuous connection with the trade. His name is insepa-
rably associated with the commercial activity of the city, as enterprise
and industry have brought him to a foremost position in the ranks of
the leading business men of Adams county. He was born in Cass
county, Illinois, March 16, 1862, his parents being Alfred M. and
Nancy M. (Troutman) Clark. The father, who was a native of
Wales, was bound out at the age of seven years and learned the tailor's
trade. In the early '50s he became a resident of Illinois, removing
from Kentucky to Jacksonville. He became the owner of farm
lands in the latter state and at different periods he lived in Cass,
Coles and Piatt counties, always following the occupation of farming
and always taking an active and helpful interest in public affairs.
He died in JMarch, 1880, at the age of sixty-five years and Avas long
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 173
survived by his widow, who passed away in February, 1912, at the
age of eighty-six years.
Alfred JM. Clark pursued his education in the district schools
of Cass county, in a private school at Charleston, Illinois, and in the
high school of that jjlace. He received his professional training in
the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, in which he completed a
course in January, 1880. He sawed wood at night and performed
other humble labor that would enable him to earn money wherewith
he met the expenses of his pharmaceutical course. In 1880 he clerked
in a drug store at Charleston, Illinois, and in 1882 removed to Areola,
that state, where he had charge of a drug business until 1885, when
he removed to Hastings. Here he continued in the drug business
and in 1892 formed a partnership with A. H. Farrens, that connect-
tion being maintained until June, 1893, since ^\hich time INIr. Clark
has been alone in business. He has been associated with the trade
longer than any other druggist of the city and he has a well appointed
store on Second street, where he is accorded a liberal patronage. He
has seen wonderful changes in the city, witnessing its growth along
all lines of substantial imju'ovement and development whereby it has
become the attractive modern city of today. He is likewise interested
in several other business enterprises of Hastings aside from his drug
store and his activities have at all times been wisely and carefully
directed.
In 1893 Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Florence Trout,
of Areola, Illinois, a daughter of D. S. Trout, a wagonmaker of that
place and an active business man and public-spirited citizen of the
town. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have become parents of two children:
Alfreda, who is attending Downer College at JNIilwaukee, Wisconsin ;
and Alfred JNIetcalfe, who is also in school.
Mr. Clark belongs to various fraternal organizations. He is an
active member of the Knights of Pythias lodge of Hastings and
became a charter member of the Dramatic Order of the Knights of
Khorassan. He is well known in ^Masonic circles, having attained tlie
Knights Templar degree of the York Rite, and in the commandery
he is an active worker, serving now as senior warden. He has also
taken the Scottish Rite degrees and has held office in that branch of
JNIasonry. He belongs also to the ^Modern Woodmen of America and
the Mystic Legion of the Orient, in the organization of Avliich he was
a prime mover and in which he has been an active worker. He votes
with the republican party but has never held political office. He has
served as a member of the school board, however, and is interested in
plans and movements for the public good, cooperating heartily and
174 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
earnestly along lines leading to public benefit. The history of
Hastings is largely familiar to him, for his mind bears the impress of
its early historic annals, while with the passing years he has taken an
active part in shaping the material development and progress of this
portion of the state.
KARL D. BEGHTOL.
Karl D. Beghtol attorney at law at Hastings now serving as
police judge, was born in Shenandoah, Iowa, on the 22d of March,
1876, a son of James V. and Edith (McCoy) Beghtol. The father
is a physician and in the year 1882 removed with his family to Lin-
coln, Nebraska. He afterward came to Hastings, where he is still
engaged in the active practice of medicine and surgery, occupjang
a prominent and enviable position in that connection.
Karl D. Beghtol was educated in the public schools and in the
high school of Friends, Nebraska, where he was graduated. He
afterward took up the profession of teaching and became assistant
principal of the Nebraska Institute for the Blind at Nebraska City,
i-emaining there for a year. During his school work he specialized in
the teaching of Latin and history. He afterward took the classical
course at the University of Nebraska, specializing in languages for
four years, and again he taught school, spending three years in that
connection at Ogden, LTtah. Later he devoted a j^ear to teaching in
the schools of Anaconda, JNIontana, and on the expiration of that
period retired from the profession and became credit man for tlie
Copper City Commercial Company of Anaconda.
In 1905 ]Mr. Beghtol reentered the LTniversity of Nebraska for
the study of law and on the completion of his professional course
was graduated with the class of 1908. He then returned to Hastings,
opened liis office and is enjoying a good practice. He holds a teach-
er's life certificate in Nebraska but expects henceforth to concen-
trate his energies upon his laAv practice, which is becoming continu-
ally more extensive and of a more imj^ortant character. His legal
learning, his analytical mind, the readiness with which he grasps the
points in an argument all combine to make him a strong and capable
lawyer, rendering him a formidable adversary in legal combat.
On the 12th of October, 1910, INIr. Beghtol was united in mar-
riage to Miss Ena Brach, a daughter of William Brach, of Hastings.
They have one child, Karl D., Jr. Mr. Beghtol gives his political
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 175
allegiance to the republican party and was a candidate for the office
of count J' attorney in 1912, but was defeated by a small vote, the
Wilson ticket carrying everything with it. His religious faith is
that of the Presbyterian church. Fraternally he is connected
M-ith Acacia Lodge, No. 233, A. F. & A. M., also with the Royal
Arch chapter of Anaconda, Montana, and with Anaconda Lodge,
No. 239, B. P. O. E. He likewise belongs to a university fraternity,
the Betha Theta Pi, and to the Pan Hellenic, T. N. E., the Phi Delta
Phi and the the Theta Kappa Nu. Upon examination he won an
honorary membership in an honorary legal fraternity. In the line of
his profession he has membership with the Bar Association and in
November, 1914, was elected police judge. He turns for recreation
to fishing, hunting and various phases of outdoor life, which he greatly
enjoys. Laudable ambition prompts his activity in his professional
career and leads to his thorough preparation of cases. At no time
has his reading ever been confined to the limitations of the questions
at issue. It has gone beyond and compassed every contingency and
provided not alone for the expected but for the unexpected, which
happens quite as freqviently in the courts as out of them.
WILLIAM M. LOWMAN.
"William INI. Lowman, a prominent real estate dealer and capital-
ist of Hastings, is now giving his attention to his private business
afi^airs, although for a considerable period he figured prominently in
financial circles as the i^resident of the Bank of Commerce. A native
of Illinois, he was born in Toulon in 18.56, and was there reared and
educated. In 1878 he arrived in Hastings and with his father, Davis
Lowman, engaged in the real estate business under the firm style of
D. Lowman & Son, opening their office on the 1st of January, 1879.
The relation between them was maintained until January 1, 1886,
when William M. Lowman succeeded to the business of the firm and
has since been widely known as one of the most prominent real estate
dealers of this part of Nebraska. He has negotiated many impor-
tant realty transfers, is thoroughly conversant with property values
and has utilized his opportunity for judicious investment, adding to
his holdings from time to time until he now has important and exten-
sive interests of that character. He also extended his activities into
other fields, becoming a well known figure in banking circles as the
president of the Bank of Commerce. He remained at the head of
176 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
the institution for an extended period, wisely and capably directing
its activities and shaping its policy and making it one of the foremost
financial concerns of this part of the state. He continued as presi-
dent until 1915, when he resigned, and has since concentrated his
efforts upon his individual interests.
In 1881 JNIr. Lowman was married to Miss Florence M. Garrett,
of Sterling, Illinois, and to them have been born two children : Mrs.
Vera G. INIcCleery and William JNI. Thirty-eight years have come
and gone since JNIr. Lowman arrived in Hastings, which was then a
small town giving little promise of future greatness. With its
development he has been closely associated and as the years have
passed on his work has been directly beneficial to the community. He
can tell the story of the changes in Adams county, not as a matter of
hearsay but as a matter of actual experience, and he has a wide
acquaintance which includes all of the pioneer settlers as well as the
majority of the more prominent later arrivals.
BALTHAUSER GRUENER.
Balthauser Gruener, deceased, was one of the well known far-
mers of Juniata township and in his death the community lost a
worthy and substantial citizen. He was a native of Germany, born
July 23, 1849, and in the fatherland spent the days of his boyhood
and youth. He was one of a family of six children and he received
the usual advantages of boys of the middle class. He came to the
United States in 1871, taking up his abode at INIendota, Illinois, where
he resided for a few years, devoting his attention to farm work there.
He afterward removed to Arkansas, purchasing eighty acres of land
near Little Rock, and upon that place he continued for a number of
years. He afterward became a resident of Iowa and purchased
eighty acres of land near INIuscatine, devoting his time and ener-
gies to the further cultivation and improvement of that tract until
1888, when he came to Nebraska and bought a farm on section
2.5, Juniata township. With characteristic energy he began the
further development of this place and added to it many substan-
tial modern imjjrovements He owned one hundred and sixty acres
of land at the time of his death and was regarded as one of the enter-
prising and progressive agriculturists of his community, devoting
his attention to the work of the fields until his life's labors were
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 177
ended on the 10th of July, 1899, when he had reached the age of forty-
nine years.
Mr. Gruener left a family to mourn his loss. He had wedded
Miss Louisa Shaber, who was born in OberfuUbach in Coburg-
Gotha, Germany. They were married in INIendota, Illinois, and to
them were born seven children, as follows : Freda, wlio is the wife of
Albert Shultz, of Denver township, Adams county, Nebraska;
Edward, who is a resident of Roseland township, Adams county,
Nebraska; May, who is the wife of Glen Christwell and lives near
Hansen, this county ; Emma, who gave her hand in marriage to Wil-
liam Wright, of Denver townshij), this county; and Frederick, Wil-
liam and Ludwig, all at home.
Since the death of her husband JMrs. Gruener has remained upon
the home farm and has extended its boundaries by the purchase of an
additional tract of forty acres. She is cultivating the farm with the
aid of her younger sons and has made many substantial improve-
ments upon the place. It is a fine tract of land devoted to general
agricultural pursuits and she is a successful business woman. Mr.
Gruener was a supporter of the republican party and his sons have
followed in his political footsteps. He belonged to the German
Lutheran church, in which his wife and children also hold member-
ship, and the family is one of prominence and worth in the community.
Mr. Gruener was a very substantial and progressive business man,
thoroughly reliable in his dealings and having many good qualities
which endeared him to his fellow citizens.
LOUIS HADDEN.
Louis Hadden, who owns a valuable farm in Blaine township,
was born in Kendall county, Illinois, on the 28th of October, 18.54,
and attended the common schools there until he was sixteen years of
age. Subsequently he was a student in the Jennings Seminary at
Aurora, Illinois, and after completing his education worked for his
father until 1880. In that year he came westward, settling in Seward
county, Nebraska, where he purchased a farm which he operated for
two years. At the end of that time he sold that place and removed to
Illinois, devoting two years to farming his father's land. In 188.5
he came to Adams county, Nebraska, and for two years rented a farm
three miles southwest of Hastings. He saved his money with the
intention of buying land and in 1887 purchased his present farm in
178 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Blaine toAvnshiiJ, three miles northeast of Hastings. He has since
resided there and as the j^ears have passed has brought the farm to a
high state of development. He seldom fails to gather good crops and
has never had occasion to regret his choice of an occupation. -
Mr. Hadden was married in Aurora, Kane county, Illinois, in
1882 to JNIiss Hattie Tiifany, of Chicago, and they have three chil-
dren. Lula, who was born in 1883 in Kane county, Ilhnois, married
Guy Eastman, a banker of JNIitchell, Nebraska, by whom she has
three children. Glen JNI., who was born in Kendall county, Illinois,
in 1885, is living with his parents. Bessie, who was born in 1889 in
Adams count)^ Nebraska, married Ai'thur Eastwood, a hardware
merchant of JNIorrill, by whom she has a son and daughter.
Mr. Hadden votes the republican ticket and for two terms served
as township school director. Fraternally he is connected with the
JNIodern Woodmen of America. He has based his success upon hard
work and careful management and his career indicates what may be
accomplished by persistent and well planned industry.
JACOB F. HEILER.
Jacob F. Heiler is chairman of the county board of supervisors,
in which connection he is proving a capable official, discharging his
duties with the promptness and fidelity that arises from a public-
sjjirited devotion to the general good. He was born in Buffalo, New
York, on the 6th of February, 1846, his parents being Jacob jNI. and
IMargaret Heiler, both of Avhom are now deceased. The father de-
voted his attention to the butchering business and thus provided for
the support of his familJ^ He pursued his education in the schools
of Buffalo and during the Civil war, M'hen still a youth in his teens,
joined the army, becoming connected with the "boys in blue" of Com-
pany B, Twenty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he
served for eighteen months. He rendered valiant aid to his country
and left the service at the close of the war in 1865. He then made his
Avay to Iowa in 1866 and in 1867 came to Nebraska. Four years
later, in 1871, he secured a homestead claim in Hamilton county and
devoted the succeeding three years to general agricultural pursuits.
In 1874. JNIr. Heiler removed to Hastings and for six years was
in the employ of Staple & Dasher. On the exiDiration of that period
he became connected with the INIarsh-Hunter Company, with which
he continued for four years, and for one year he was with the Emer-
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 179
son establishment. Later he sj)ent one year as traveling salesman
upon the road, representing the Minnesota Chief people, and at the
end of that time turned his attention to the hardware trade. In 1890
he embarked in business on his own account as a dealer in coal and
remained active in that line vmtil 1907, when he sold out and practi-
cally retired from business. In the meantime he had built up a trade
of large and gratifying i^roportions that had brought to him substan-
tial success and with the competence which came to him as the reward
of his labor and close application he put aside business cares and is
now practically living retired. However, he has served for five years
as a member of the board of county supervisors and his present term
will continue him in office for three years longer.
On the 3d of July, 1879, Mr. Heiler was united in marriage to
Miss Catherine JNI. Fisher and thej' have one son, H. H., who is now
a mail carrier. He is also connected Avith the Grand Amy of the
Republic, with the Odd Fellows and with all the bodies of jNIasonry.
In his political views he is a stalwart republican, believing firmly in
the principles of the party, and for two terms he has served as a mem-
ber of the city council. He cooperates in many plans and measures
for the benefit and upbuilding of the community in which he makes
his home and at all times manifests a public-spirited citizenship. He
derives his income largely from property in Hastings, for he has
made judicious investments in real estate. His social qualities and his
personal worth have won him popularity wherever he is known and
he is held in the warmest regard where best known.
DAVID B. MARTI.
David B. INIarti, a well known real estate dealer of Hastings, his
activities covering a broad scope, was born in Pijier City, Illinois,
December 17, 1877, his parents being Godfrey and Rosa (Conrad)
jNIarti. The father was born in Bern, Switzerland, and is now living
at the age of seventy years, his home being at Long Beach, Califor-
nia. The mother, a native of Hanover, Germany, is now sixty-five
years of age. Godfrey INIarti came to the United States when a youth
of fourteen and lived at different towns in Indiana and Illinois and
in Hannibal, INIissouri. In 1878 he removed to Butler county, Ne-
braska, where he carried on farming, and still owns six hundred and
forty acres of rich land, being numbered among the active farmers of
the state for a considerable period, during which time he filled the
180 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
office of county supervisor. In 1893 he came to Adams county, set-
tling in Little Blue township, where he owns one hundred and sixty
acres of land, known as Rattlesnake Farm, it having derived its name
from the fact that there were many rattlesnakes upon the place in the
early days. He lived on the Little Blue property for about fifteen
years and was accounted one of the most prominent and progressive
stockmen of the neighborhood. He was widely and favorably known
and was identified Avith the Farmers Alliance and Avith the populist
movement. He helped organize and Avas president in 1912 of the
Farmers Grain & Supply Company of Hastings and Avas very active
in affairs of public concern. In his political vicAvs he is noAv a Bryan
democrat. He continued to engage actively in agricultural pursuits
until 1908, Avhen he retired to Hastings, and in 1912 he removed Avith
his Avife to Long Beach, California, Avhere they noAV make their home.
David B. jNIarti, the eldest of their children, attended district
school No. 33 in Little Blue toAvnship, folloAved by study in the Hast-
ings high school and in Hastings College. He remained on the home
farm until the age of tAventy years, at AA'hich time he began teaching
in district school No. 33. In 1899 he became principal of the Hol-
stein schools and in 1900 Avas made assistant instructor of science and
mathematics in Hastings College. In 1901, hoAvcA'cr, he turned
from the educational field to commercial life, and joined D. W. Ball
in organizing the firm of Ball & Marti for the conduct of a book and
stationery business, Avhich they carried on until 1905. During the
succeeding tAvo years Mr. IMarti Avas engaged in the real estate busi-
ness in Hastings and in 1907 he became office manager of a AA'hole-
sale and mail order house at Omaha. In 1911, hoAvever, he returned
to Hastings, Avhere he has since been engaged in the real estate
business, a part of the time Avith the firm of Higgenbotham & Pick-
ens and a part of the time in connection Avith his brother, R. E. JNIarti,
under the firm style of Marti Brothers. They have conducted a
general real estate, loan and insurance business, handling insurance
of all kinds, and their operations extend all over Avestern Nebraska.
The firm is accorded a liberal clientage and is conducting an exten-
sive business. They haAX erected a number of nice bungaloAvs and
cottages and are doing considerable speculative building, erecting
buildings on the east side for sale, Avhich they place upon the market
at a reasonable price, selling at terms helpful to the purchaser.
Their efforts have been an element in the material upbuilding of the
city and Hastings has benefited bj^ their operations in the real estate
and loan field.
In 1899 David B. JNIarti Avas married to INIiss Hettie J. BroAvn,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY ISI
who was born in Richardson county, Nebraska, a daughter of Charles
W. and Ida Brown, natives of Pennsylvania and of Ohio respec-
tively. Her father homesteaded land in Richardson county at an
early day and became a very active business man and extensive stock
dealer of that county, widely known because of the importance of
his business affairs and his active support of measures for the gen-
eral good. In 1905 he removed to Hastings, where he now lives
retired, but is still the owner of four hundred acres of valuable land
in Adams county, from which he derives a gratifying annual income.
He is also an active member of the Presbyterian church. In the
family of Mr. and Mrs. JNIarti are two sons, Lloyd and Paul.
In his political views ]Mr. JNIarti is an earnest democrat and is
now serving as a member of the Hastings city council from the
fourth ward. During his teaching days he was identified with the
Adams Countj^ Democrat and the Hastings Tribune in connection
with reportorial and advertising work. His activities have reached
out along many lines and always to the benefit and betterment of the
community in which he has lived. He is now president of the Church
Federation, a teacher in the Sunday school and an active member of
the Presbyterian church, in which he is serving as an officer. He hiis
done imjjortant and effective work in viplift campaigns, has been
active in brotherhood work and, in fact, does everj-thing in his power
to promote the moral progress of the community, that the individual
may have a better, broader scope for the exercise of his activities
along lines of constructive effort.
CHARLES K. LAW SON.
No history of Hastings would be complete without extended ref-
erence to Charles K. Lawson, who is today the oldest retail merchant
in the city in years of continuous connection with the business. He
is familiar with every phase of the city's development and progress
along commercial lines and his efforts have been of immense value
in promoting the public welfare. He was born in Erie, Pennsyl-
vania, August 4, 1846, and was only two years of age when his
father died, after which he made his home with his grandparents in
Erie. He was but eleven j^ears of age at the time of the death of
his grandfather and was then thrown upon his own resources, since
which time he has made his way in the world unaided, his success and
advancement being attributable entirely to his own efforts. He
182 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
worked in a factory at making oars for two svimmers and in the
Avinter months worked for his board and the privilege of attending
school. He afterward engaged in driving teams which were used
in hauling oil from Titusville. Ambitious to secure an education, he
utilized every opportunity that would enable him to advance in that
direction, and after mastering the work of the public and high
schools continued his course in an academy at Waterford, Pennsyl-
vania. In 1863 he went to Greene county, Illinois, where he was
emploj^ed at farm work through the succeeding winter. He pos-
sessed considerable natural mechanical ingenuity and, removing to
Oneida, Knox county, Illinois, there worked in a lumberyard for a
year. He afterward clerked in a dry goods store for about a year,
when, in connection with G. H. Pratt, he purchased the business.
Energy, determination and industry stood them instead of capital
and, concentrating their efforts upon their undertaking, thej' devel-
oped the trade and conducted the enterprise successfully.
In 1872 JNIr. Lawson started out to find a new location and on
the 13th of July, of that year, decided on Hastings. JMuch of the
land in this part of the state was still in the possession of the gov-
ernment and the town had not yet been laid out. There had been a
few homesteaders in the district in 1872 and ]\Ir. Lawson believed
that the country would develop rapidly and that there would be
opportunit)^ for the conduct of commercial interests at this point.
Accordingly, ]Mr. Pratt shipped a carload of lumber from Rock
Island and they built the first store on the town site. Samuel Alex-
ander had alreadj' opened a store in a small shack, but ISIr. Lawson's
was the first regular store building within the limits of what is now
the city of Hastings. His place of business was at the corner of
First street and Hastings avenue. JNIr. Pratt disposed of their store
in Illinois and joined ISlr. Lawson in Hastings in December, 1872.
The two i^artners, Avith their clerk, A. H. Cramer, kept bachelors'
liall over the store. Their building Avas a tAvo story structure tAventy-
two by eighty feet, and they carried a stock of groceries, hardAvare,
imi^lements, stoves and other commodities needed in a jjioneer com-
munity. The business Avas conducted under a partnership relation
until 1877, Avhen they divided their interests, ]Mr. LaAVSon taking
over the lands owned by the firm, Avhile ^Ir. Pratt had an equal
amount in money. FolloAving the division of their interests INIr.
Lawson, in 1878, formed a partnership Avith C. J. Hamot and
erected a good brick store building near Hastings aA^enue on Second
street. There he opened a stock of hardAvare and continued the busi-
ness as a partnership until 1881, Avhen he purchased his partner's
PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 183
interest and continued to cany on the store alone. In the meantime
he had become interested in the cattle business, owning a big ranch
on the Loup river in connection with JNIr. Pratt. They were asso-
ciated in that undertaking until 1890, when INIr. Lawson sold his
interest in the cattle. In 1889 he established a branch store in Fair-
bury, Nebraska, and removed to that place in order to personally
superintend the business and place it upon a substantial basis. After
two years he sold out there and in 1891 returned to Hastings. He
continued to engage in the hardAvare trade here for several years and
then, on account of his health, disposed of his store. Two years later,
however, he reentered mercantile circles, becoming proprietor of his
present store, which he has since successfully conducted. There is
not another retail merchant in Hastings who was in business here at the
time of his arrival, leaving him the pioneer in his field in this county.
His activities have covered a broad scope and have been rewarded
with a large measure of success.
jNIr. Lawson and his partner INIr. Pratt became connected with
the Hastings Townsite Company, in which they owned an eighth
interest, and from that time forward they have been identified with
the development and growth of the city. They shipped the first car-
load of lumber to Hastings over the Chicago, Burlington & Quincj'
Railroad, and during the earh^ days thej^ conducted a very extensive
business, their trade coming to them from a wide territory. Mr.
Lawson still looks after his commercial interests and has followed
most progressive methods throughout the years of his residence here.
On the 16th of SejJtember, 1874, jNIr. Lawson was united in mar-
riage to INIiss Amy Ellis, a native of Greene county, Illinois, where
she was reared and educated. They became the parents of four
sons: Truman J., who is engaged in the hardware business at Rock-
land, Idaho; Ellis Gale and Arthur A., who are associated with their
father in the conduct of the store at Hastings; and ]Marion C, wlio
is engaged in the abstract and loan business at JMalad City, Idaho.
The parents are members of the Presbyterian church. JNIr. Law-
son is connected with the lodge, chapter and commandery of the
JNIasonic fraternity at Hastings and with Sesostris Temple of the
jNIystic Shrine at Lincoln. In his political views he is a republican,
stalwart in his advocacy of party principles, yet never an office seeker.
He is a splendidly preserved man, giving personal attention to his
business, playing golf for recreation and taking an active part in
everything that pertains to the Melfare and jirogress of his district
and conmiunity. He has witnessed the entire growth and develop-
ment of the town and county and has contributed in large measure to
184 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
the development of Hastings, his hf e work being a substantial asset
in its commercial progress. He has a very wide acquaintance
throughout this part of the state and wherever known is held in the
highest esteem.
WILLIAM JOHN FALK.
On the list of Hastings' honored dead appears the name of Wil-
liam John Falk and the deepest regret was felt throughout the com-
munity when he passed away. He was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on
the 25th of December, 1859, his parents being John and Wilhelmina
(Werner) Falk. The father was a shoe merchant and manufacturer
who died when his son, William John, was but twelve years of age.
The mother, however, long survived, passing away in 1913.
William J. Falk was educated in the jjublic schools of his native
city and made his initial step in the business world when a youth of
sixteen j'ears by securing employment in a clothing store there. From
that time forward he was dependent ujjon his own resources and
whatever success he achieved was attributable entirely to his earnest
persistent labors. When twenty-five years of age he came to Ne-
braska, arriving in Hastings in 1885, at which time he engaged in the
clothing business with Ed Bloom. There he continued until his
death and remained one of the foremost merchants of the city, pro-
gressive, wide-awake, alert and enterprising. After four years his
partner died, after which he j)urchased the interest in the business,
which he conducted independently from that time mitil his own de-
mise. He also conducted a store at Grand Island, Nebraska, for eight
years, and his well defined plans and business methods wrought for
success. He was one of the pioneer clothing merchants of his part of
the state and througliout his entire career his business methods were
such as would bear the closest investigation and scrutiny.
Mr. Falk was united in marriage to ]Miss Nellie D. Dowd, a
daughter of Thomas James and INIary Jane DoAvd, the former a
native of Ireland and the latter of INIassachusetts. In 1855 they re-
moved to INIilwaukee, Wisconsin, where they resided until 1873, when
they came to Nebraska, becoming pioneer residents of this part of the
state. The father was a watchmaker and jeweler but his business
activities were interrupted at the time of the Civil war, when he re-
sponded to the country's call for troops, enlisting as a member of
Company E, Third Wisconsin Infantry, with which he served for
WILLIAM J. FAL
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 187
four years, the regiment being attached to the Army of the Potomac.
He rendered vahant aid to the comitry and then at the close of the
war resumed business as a jeweler. He possessed marked genius in
that line and successfully conducted his business until his death, which
occurred on the 20th of June, 1901. His widow survives at the age of
seventy years. To Mr. and Mrs. Falk were born four- children:
George Edward, who is attending the Notre Dame University of
Indiana; Margaret Mary, a student in Mount St. Mary's school at
Omaha; and William John and Mary Jane, also attending school.
The religious faith of the family is that of the Catholic church and
in his fraternal relations Mr. Falk was an Elk, belonging to the lodge
at Hastings. In politics he was a democrat but did not seek nor desire
office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs.
He passed away on February 23, 1913, since which time his widow
has disposed of both of the stores. He was a very successful man and
ranked with the representative merchants of Hastings. He had
many substantial and admirable qualities and his life and character
were as clear as the sunlight. He constantly labored for the right and
those who came in contact with him speedily appreciated him at his
true worth.
C. L. MOSIER.
Among the well known general farmers of Juniata township is
C. L. JNIosier, who is the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of
land on which he has lived for fifteen years, and the creditable
appearance of the place is due to his industry and careful manage-
ment. He was born September 25, 1874!, in Adamsville, Cass county,
Michigan, a son of Isaac and Susan (Conley) Mosier, who were
natives of Pennsylvania and of Ohio resiDectively. They were mar-
ried, however, in Michigan and in that state the father passed away.
The paternal grandfather came from Lorraine, France, while the
mother's people were of German lineage. Isaac INIosier devoted his
attention to general agricultural pursuits and his death occurred
about six j^ears ago. In the family were five sons, as follows : Theo,
who is a resident of Adamsville, Michigan; Charles A., living in
INIiami, Florida; C. L., of this review; Leland, who makes his home
in Berkeley, California ; and Willard, of Adamsville, IMichigan.
During his youthful days C. L. Mosier, residing upon the home
farm, divided his time between the work of the fields and the
188 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
acquirement of a common school education. When fifteen years of
age he made his way to Nebraska and was employed for some time
as a farm hand, but he was ambitious and energetic, practiced close
economy as well as industry and in the course of time had earned
enough to enable him to purchase jDroperty. He became owner of
his present place fifteen j^ears ago and now has one hundred and
sixty acres of good land which he devotes to general farming. His
methods are practical and progressive and his desire to make a good
home for his family is manifest in the improvements which he has
put upon his place. He is also connected with the Farmers Grain
Company of Juniata.
In 1900 Mr. Mosier vt'as united in marriage to INIiss Ethel M.
Savery, who is the eldest daughter of Henry R. and Eliza (Van
Houten) Savery. Her father is of English lineage and is a descend-
ant of Elder William Brewster and Richard Warren, who came over
in the Mayflower, and also of Zachariah Whiteman, of Revolution-
ary fame. The mother is of Dutch lineage and the Van Houten
family was established in Dutchess county. New York, in the early
days of this countr5^ IMr. and INIrs. Savery are still living in the
old home at Juniata. ]Mr. and JNIrs. INIosier have two sons and two
daughters: Ethel M. and Rex T., of Juniata; and George C. and
Donna B., of Los Angeles, California.
In his political views Mr. INIosier is independent, voting according
to the dictates of his judgment. He belongs to the JModern Wood-
men lodge at Juniata and his influence is always cast on the side of
improvement and advancement. He is ever wUling to aid in move-
ments for the general good and at the same time he has led a busy
and useful life in the conduct of his farming interests.
WILLIS P. McCREARY.
Willis P. JNIcCreary, distinguished as an able criminal lawyer,
well known as a sportsman and esteemed in all circles by reason of
his genuine worth, his public spirit and his activity in behalf of the
general welfare, was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, No-
vember 8, 1854 , his parents being Pearson and Nancy (Dean)
McCreary. The father, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1832, was
a drover and stock buyer by occupation. He died in 1856 and the
mother was again married in 1859. In 1865 the family removed to
Lee county, Iowa, where the stepfather of our subject engaged in
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 189
general farming. The mother, who was born in 1833, met death in
the memorable railroad wreck at Chatsworth, Illinois, in 1887.
Willis P. JNIcCreary was a lad of eleven years at the time of the
removal of the famil}^ to Lee county, Iowa, where he attended the
district schools. Later he became a student in the academy at Den-
mark, Iowa, and prepared for a professional career as a law student
in the State University, from which he was graduated on the 28th of
June, 1876. He had left the farm when seventeen years of age and
had engaged in school teaching, also employing other methods in
order to earn the money that woiild enable him to pursue his law
course. On the 14th of July, 1876, he opened a law office in Cedar
Rapids, Iowa, where he remained until 1884, when he came to Hast-
ings and has here since followed his profession. In 1887 he formed
a partnership under the firm style of Capps, JNIcCreary & Stevens,
but his partners have both passed aAvay, and Mr. JNIcCreary remained
alone in practice until 1912, when he admitted E. E. Danly to a part-
nership under the firm style of JNIcCreary & Danly, an association
that is still in existence. For three terms JNIr. JNIcCreary filled the
office of prosecuting attorney for Adams county and he has always
been accorded a large and distinctively representative clientage, for
he disjDlays marked ability in presenting his cause before the courts.
He jDossesses superior oratorical powers and is regarded as the most
eloquent lawyer practicing at the Hastings bar. His jjractice ex-
tends all over southwestern Nebraska and he has been connected
with some of the most important cases tried in the courts of
the state.
On the 1st of January, 1878, JNIr. JNIcCreary was united in mar-
riage at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to JNIiss JNIary B. Greene, who was born
in that city and is a daughter of William and Louisa (Higley)
Greene, who were natives of England and of Connecticut respec-
tively. JNIr. Greene and his brother George, who was afterward
judge of the supreme court of Iowa, went to Cedar Rapids in an
early day from Buffalo, New York, and opened the first store in the
former citj\ They afterward made their way to Colorado and
opened up mines at Silverton, hauling the machinery for a smelter
on pack mules over the range from Durango, Colorado. Subse-
quently they returned to Cedar Rapids and William Greene was
active in financial circles there. He became a prime mover in the
building of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern Railroad and
was associated with the freight department of that road at a time
when one of his fellow employes was A. L. JNIohler, now the presi-
dent of the Union Pacific Railroad Company.
190 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
To JNIr. and Mrs. McCrearj^ have been born four children, Willis
M., who is engaged in general merchandising at Scotts Bluff, Ne-
braska, is married and has one child. Mary and Dorothy are at home.
James R. is a graduate of the State Manual Training Normal School
at Pittsburg, Kansas, and is now engaged in teaching manual train-
ing in the schools of Hastings and is also operating a farm. He is
married.
Mr. McCreary was reared in the Quaker faith. He is active in
the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and is a recognized leader
in the ranks of the republican party. He served as president of the
Republican Club of Nebraska in 1896 and was very active in that
compaign. He also did much work all over the state under the direc-
tion of the state central committee in the campaign of 1900 and his
words of eloquence and learning never fail to carry weight and in
manj' cases bring conviction. He is a lover of good horses, always
enjoys good clean sport and, in a word, his is a well rounded char-
acter, in which business and pleasure maintain an even balance. In
the jjractice of law he has made steady progress and, while nature
endowed him with the gift of oratory, he has never depended upon
it to sway juries but has always carefully prepared his cases and bases
his arguments upon the law applicable to the jjoint at issue.
HARRY CLAY HAVERLY.
Harry Clay Haverly, well known as a politician, has been very
active in public affairs in Adams count}' for many years and has
filled various offices, the duties of which he has discharged with
promptness and fidelity. He is also well known in business circles as
one of the organizers of the Hastings Building & Loan Association,
of which he is now the president. In his entire career he has made
it his purpose never to neglect the duty at hand for some other task
and his loyalty and fidelitj' have been ever recognized as salient
featvu'es in his career. Mr. Haverly is a native of Pennsylvania,
having been borne at Belief onte on the 25th of December, 1858, his
parents being Francis S. and Hannah (Poorman) Haverly, who
were also natives of the Keystone state. The father is still a resident
of Belief onte and has attained an advanced age, having been born in
1833. The mother, who was born in 1836, died in 1876. For many
years Francis S. Haverly was general foreman of an axe factory at
Belief onte and became the owner of considerable land and real estate
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 191
in that locality. He also took a helpful interest in public affairs,
served as a member of the town board, and has been quite active as a
member of the JNIethodist church. He is now enjoying a rest that he
has truly earned and richly deserves.
Harry Clay Haverly is the eldest child in his father's family and
in the public schools of Belief onte pursued his education. After leav-
ing home he was employed in a factory, store and office. In 1879 he
came to Nebraska, at which time Hastings contained a population of
about two thousand. Here he acted as clerk in the store of F. J.
Benedict for six or eight months and in 1880 went to Culbertson,
Nebraska, as manager for a store owned by the firm of Benedict &
Mowrey, the location being sixty miles from the railroad on the
Texas trail in the cow country. He saw buffaloes killed in that dis-
trict and watched big stampedes. In the fall of 1880 he returned to
the store in Hastings and in 1884 became a partner in the grocery
firm which then operated under the name of the Benedict Company.
He was called to public office in 1888, when he was elected city clerk,
which position he filled for four years. In 1892 he was appointed
deputy county treasurer and in 1899 became a candidate for thq
office of county treasurer, but was defeated by fifteen votes. In 1900
he accepted the position of bookkeeper with the firm of McKinley &
Lanning and in 1901 was appointed steward at the Hastings Asylum
by Governor Dietrich, and was reai^pointed in 1903 by Governor
Michey, who again named him for that position in 1905, while in
1907 he was appointed to the same office by Governor Sheldon. He
thus served until December 1, 1907, when he resigned and became
connected Avith the Bostwick Hotel, but in June, 1913, sold his in-
terest in that business and was appointed deputy clerk. In the mean-
time he had assisted in organizing the Hastings Building & Loan
Association in 1896 and is now its jn-esident. This is one of the strong
financial concerns of the county and has constituted an important
element in furthering public progress.
In 188G, at Hastings, "Sir. Haverly was married to Miss Carrie
Calvert, a native of Wisconsin, who died in the year 1913. Her par-
ents were Alfred and Elizabeth Calvert, who on coming to Nebraska
settled in Highland township, Adams county, where the father
secured a homestead claim and entered upon the active work of the
farm. Afterward he removed to Hastings and became agent for the
St. Paul mills, which he thus represented for many years. He was a
Civil war veteran, going to the front with a Wisconsin regiment, and
he afterward became a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.
JNIrs. Haverly was very prominent in the social circles of the city and
3 92 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
was also deejjly interested in civic affairs. She possessed many
attractive qualities which won her personal popularity so that her
death was deepl}^ regretted. To JNIr. and JNIrs. Haverly were born
two sons: Cecil F., who is city salesman with a wholesale dental sup-
ply house in ]\Iinneapolis ; and Ernest S., attending high school.
In his political views Mr. Haverly has ever been a stalwart repub-
lican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and is a
recognized leader in the local ranks of the party. He served as chair-
man of the county central committee from 1911 until 1915 and has
been active in everj^ campaign during the past thirty years. Fratern-
ally he is identified with the JSIasons, holding membership in the lodge,
the chapter and the council, while in the consistory he has attained
the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. He also belongs to the
Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, becoming a charter member of
Lodge No. 159, and he has also been a member of the Grand Lodge
of Elks. He is a charter member of Hastings Lodge, No. 28, K. P.,
and of Delhi Temple, No. 109, D. O. K. K. He likewise has mem-
bership with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Royal Highlanders
and the Loyal JNIystic Legion of America. His religious belief is
that of the EiJiscopal church, in which he is serving as vestryman,
and he takes an active interest in furthering its cause and extendin*^
its influence. His activities have touched various interests of society
and his influence has ever been on the side of progress, reform and
improvement.
GRIFFITH EVANS.
Griffith Evans is now living retired in Hastings. His has been an
active life and his present rest is well deserved. He was born at
Beddgelert, in North Wales, on the 14th of January, 1849, and is a
son of Owen and Catherine Evans, the former a farmer by occupa-
tion. Both, however, are noAV deceased. After attending the public
schools of his native land Griffith Evans continued his education in
the normal college at Bangor, in North Wales, and then took up the
]>rofession of teaching, which he followed in England for ten years.
He was a j'oung man of about thirty-four years when he crossed the
Atlantic to Nebraska, arriving in 1883. Here he resumed teaching,
becoming connected with the schools of Adams county. He was thus
engaged until 1908, when he was called to public office, having been
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 193
elected county assessor. In 1896 he paid a visit to his old country,
thus renewing the friendships of his youth.
On the 9th of February, 1910, JNIr. Evans was united in marriage
to IMrs. Sarah E. Kelley, the widow of Absalom H. Kelley and the
daughter of Abner Coates. He gives his political allegiance to the
democracy, while his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church.
As the years passed by Mr. Evans made investment in farm lands
and his property now returns to him a gratifying annual income,
enabling him to live retired. His was an active life in former years and
he contributed much to the educational development of the districts
in which he labored. He has never had occasion to regret his deter-
mination to come to the new world to try his fortune, for here he
found favorable opportunities and in their improvement has gradually
worked his way upward, gaining therebj' the competence which enables
him to rest from further business cares and yet enjoy all of the com-
forts and some of the luxuries of life.
FRED STULKEN,
Fred Stulken, a resident of Hastings, is a self-made man and
as such is entitled to the honor which is always given to the man pos-
sessing enterprise, self-reliance and sound judg-ment. He has
devoted his life to farming and now owns five hundred and sixty
acres of fine land in Adams county, the operation of which, however,
he leaves to others as he has retired and is enjoying a period of
leisure. He was born in Germany on the 2.3th of October, 1844, and
attended tlie common schools until he was fourteen years of age. For
eight years thereafter he worked as a farm hand in Germany but in
1870 removed to Freeport, Illinois. He was in the employ of others
in that vicinity for seven years, after which he came to Adams county,
Nebraska. For four years he operated a rented farm three miles
east of Hastings and at the end of that time had accumulated suffi-
cient capital to enable him to purchase land four miles northeast of
Hastings, which his youngest son, August, is now farming. I'or
many years, however, he devoted his time and energj^ to the opera-
tion of his farm and j'ear by year his well directed labors yielded him
a good financial return. In 1903 he removed to Hastings, where !<e
has since lived in honorable retirement. He holds title to five hun-
dred and sixty acres of as fine land as there is in the county and is a
man of independent means.
194 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Mr. Stulken was married in 1875 to Miss Helene Lammers, who
nad emigrated to this country from Germany only a short time pre-
viously. They have become the parents of eight children. Helene,
who was born February 21, 1876, is now the wife of Luke Buskirk,
of Hastings, an employe of the Union Pacific Railroad. Four chil-
dren have been born to this union. Mr. Buskirk also has two children
by a former marriage. Henry, who was born September 29, 1877,
is farming three miles east of Doniphan. He married Nattie
Olthoff, of Hall county, by whom he has three children. Anna, whose
birth occurred on the 28th of April, 1879, is the wife of William
Bloomenkamp, a farmer of Key county, and they have six children.
August, who was born June 16, 1881, is farming the homestead. He
married Miss Lorena Finningsmier, a daughter of Henry Fin-
ningsmier, who is living retired in Hastings, and two children
have been born to this union. Mary, born September 21, 1883, mar-
ried George Filges, who was formerly of St. Louis but is now
farming six miles northeast of Hastings. They have one child.
Hermine, who was born on the 8th of March, 1886, married William
Molle, an emploj^e at the waterworks in Hastings, and one child has
been born to their union. Eliza, born February 10, 1888, married
L. Ellsworth, an employe of the Manhattan Oil Company, and their
children are two in number. Fredericka, born Januarj'- 14, 1894, is
at home.
Mr. Stulken is a member of St. Paul's German Lutheran church
and has guided his life by high moral standards. He is independent
in politics, refusing to bind himself by party ties. Both he and his
wife are still vigorous and in good health and are enjoying leisure
made possible by their labor in former years. They are well and
favorably known not only in Hastings but throughout the county
and the part which they have played in the development of their part
of the county is generally recognized.
JACOB RUHTER.
Jacob Ruhter, who resides in Verona township, has been very
successful as a farmer and now holds title to eight hvmdred acres of
excellent land. He was born in Hanover, Germany, on the 25th of
June, 1852, of the marriage of Henry and ]\Iary (Banidt) Ruhter,
both natives of that country. In 1867 they emigrated to the United
States with their family, locating at Red Wing, ]\Iinnesota, where
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 195
the father passed away. The mother's demise, however, occurred hi
Kansas. They were the parents of the following children: John,
who resides in the vicinity of Roseland, this county ; Peter, who lives
in Long Beach, California; Jacob; JNIary, the deceased Avife of
Henry Augustin, Sr., of this county; ]\Ieta, the wife of Fred C.
Alms, of York county, Nebraska; Henry, of Hastings, Nebraska,
who owns a well improved farm in this county ; George, who lives in
Sidney, Chej^enne county, this state; Anna, the wife of Jolin Stahr,
who is living in Burke, South Dakota; William, of Norfolk, Ne-
braska; Fred, of Clay Center, Kansas; and Emma, also a resident of
that place.
Jacob Ruhter attended the public schools of Hanover until he
was fourteen and a half years old, or until 1867, when he was brought
by his parents to the United States. He resided with them in Red
Wing, Minnesota, until 1878 and during part of that time was en-
gaged in blacksmithing. In the year mentioned he came to Nebraska
and located on section 29, Verona township, Adams county. For
five jrears he ojjerated that place and then removed across the road to
his present farm on section 20. He has made excellent improve-
ments upon the place, which is one of the most valuable farms of the
localit}', and keeps everything in the best of condition. He has pur-
chased additional land from time to time and his holdings now
comi^rise eight hundred acres. He engages in general farming,
raising both grain and stock, and derives a handsome income from his
land. For many years he has also operated a threshing outfit and
this has likewise proved a profitable venture. He is also interested
financially in the Farmers JNIutual Elevator Company at Prosser.
JNIr. Ruhter was married on the 16th of February, 1883, to IMiss
Kate INIeyer and they have become the parents of seven children,
namely: William Henry, who died in infancy; George F., of Verona
township; Herman O. and Albert R., also residing in that township;
Lilia, the wife of Frank Bockstadter, of Verona township; and Emil
Peter and Erwin Henry, both at home.
]Mr. Ruhter is independent in politics, refusing to follow the dic-
tates of party leaders but voting for the candidates whom he deems
best fitted for ofl^ce. For twenty-seven consecutive years he has
served as a member of the school board and he has always used his
influence to secure the educational advancement of his district. He
and his family belong to the German Lutheran church in Verona
township and for nine years he was a member of the official board.
The principles which have governed his conduct in all relations of
life are found in the teachings of the church and no movement mak-
196 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
ing for righteousness has lacked his support. He had no unusual
advantages in his youth and began his career without capital but he
has been quick to recognize and utilize opportunities and has gained
financial independence.
WILLIAM H. DILLON.
William H. Dillon is proprietor of the lunch room at the Bur-
lington depot in Hastings, in which connection he is maintaining a
well appointed establishment, catering to the needs of the traveling
public, recognizing the fact that promptness, efficiency, cleanliness
and good foods are salient elements in the attainment of success along
the line of his chosen business. He was born in Delaware county,
Iowa, on the 16th of December, 1840, a son of Gilbert D. and Mary
(Schoonover) Dillon, who were natives of New York. It was in the
year 1836 that the father removed westward to Iowa, then a part of
the territory of Wisconsin, and established the first bank at Dubuque.
He was prominently identified with the pioneer development of the
state and was a leading factor in financial circles in the early days.
He died in 1874, while his wife survived only until 1875. In their
family were eight children, of whom William H. is the third in order
of birth.
During his youthful days William H. Dillon assisted in the farm
work and attended the district schools. He afterward continued his
education in a college at Epworth and in 1864 began clerking in a
dry goods store in Dubuque, where he was employed for three years.
He afterward returned to the farm, on ^vhich he spent the succeeding
period of two years, when he resumed active connection with the dry
goods trade at Worthington, Iowa, conducting business at that point
for two years. He then sold out and devoted nine years to the in-
surance business, being special agent and collector for the Water-
town Fire Insurance Companj'. In 1879 he engaged in the grocery
business at HojDkinton, Iowa, where he remained until 1883, when
he came to Nebraska. Here he purchased one hundred and sixty
acres of land on the Indian Reservation and afterward sold that
propertj', removing to Hastings in August, 1885. Here he resumed
active connection with the insurance business, in which he engaged
until February, 1886, when he became interested in hotel life, con-
ducting the New England House for one year. He likewise con-
ducted the Commercial Hotel for two years and in February, 1889,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 197
took charge of the Bostwick, which he managed for twenty-two
3^ears. He now conducts the hinch counter at the Burlington de])ot
to keep in active touch with business, for indolence and idleness are
utterly foreign to his nature and he would not be content without
some active interest in the city. He is also the owner of farm lands
and from his proj^erty derives a substantial annual income. He has
always led a very busy life and his unfaltering industrj', intelligentlj'.
directed, has brought to him the substantial measure of success which
has crowned his efforts.
In 1871 INIr. Dillon M^as united in marriage in Iowa to Miss Nellie
Hayward, a daughter of the Rev. W. H. and Lydia Hayward, and
unto them has been born a daughter, INIrs. Grace G. Stitt, who now
has one son, Harold. JMrs. Dillon is a member of the Congrega-
tional church and is quite active in both club and church circles in
this city, formerly serving as president of the Women's Club of
Hastings. In his political views JNIr. Dillon is a republican but is.
not an office seeker, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his
individual interests, whereby he has won a substantial measure of
success. His i^lans have always been carefully formulated and
promjjtly executed and he has allowed no obstacle nor difficulty to bar
his jjath if it could be overcome by persistent, earnest and honorable
effort.
ROBERT R. MORLEDGE.
Robert R. Morledge, Avho is living retired in Hastings, is well
known and highly esteemed there and for about ten years served as
justice of the j^eace. His birth occurred in Jennings county, Indiana,
on the 16th of July, 1840, and he is a son of John R. and JNIaria
Louise (Branham) JNIorledge, the former a native of England. He
was reared at home and received his education in the public schools of
Indiana, which he attended until he was sixteen or seventeen years
old. He removed westward to Iowa when eighteen years of age and
located at Clarinda, where he remained until the 11th of July, 1861.
On that date he enlisted in the Fourth Iowa A^olunteer Infantrj^ and
went to the front with that command. He took part in the battle of
Pea Ridge and in 1863 was honorably discharged for disability. He
desired to be of some service to his country, however, and went into
the commissary department, in which he remained until the close of
the war. He then returned to Clarinda, Iowa, and remained there
198 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
until 1871, during which time he engaged in the grocery business. In
1873 he came to Hastings, Adams county, Nebraska, and became
identified with business circles as the owner of the leading store in the
town. He built the JNIorledge block, which he occupied for a time,
after whicli he sold out, and then engaged in the furniture business
for about eight months. On disposing of his interests in that connec-
tion he turned his attention to the real estate and insurance field, in
which he was active until 1898. He was then elected justice of the
peace and with the exception of three years, which he spent in Cali-
fornia, he held that office continuouslj'^ until 1910, his repeated
reelection indicating the high esteem in which he is held. Since 1911
he has lived retired from the cares of business and oflScial life, enjoying
a period of leisure which is well deserved. He was farsighted and
progressive as a merchant, was impartial as justice of the peace and
as a citizen has always sought to advance the public interests.
On the 13th of October, 1863, Mr. INIorledge was united in mar-
riage to JNIiss Phoebe J. McMullen, a daughter of Stephen and Phoebe
(Loy) McJNIullen, both natives of Ohio. Three sons and three daugh-
ters have been born to ]\Ir. and Mrs. Morledge, namely: EfFa and
Fred, both deceased ; Burt, who is living at home ; Edgar Robert and
Lula, both deceased; and Ina Evelyn, who is the wife of Bruce Brown,
of North Platte, and has two children, Robert J. and Dorothy Jane.
JNIr. INIorledge supports the republican party at the polls and in
addition to holding the office of justice of the peace was for two
terms a member of the town board and for one term a member of the
school board. His religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church.
Through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic he keeps
in touch with others who went to the defense of the Union and he
has at all times been characterized by patriotism. He began his career
empty handed but his industry and good management have been
rewarded and he is now in excellent financial circumstances.
RAYMOND CROSSON.
On the list of city officials in Hastings appears the name of Ray-
mond Crosson, now the efficient chief of police, holding to high stand-
ards of service and looking ever to the advancement of the municipal
welfare. A native of Illinois, he was born at Arrowsmith, on
Christmas Day, 1887, his parents being Martin J. and Ida (Ed-
wards) Crosson. The family came to Nebraska about 1888 and the
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 199
parents are now residents of Hastings. In his youthful days Ray-
mond Crosson devoted his attention to the acquirement of an educa-
tion in the public and high schools of Trumbull, Nebraska, and later
he became connected with a threshing outfit. Following his mar-
riage he was appointed to the position of manager of the Farmers
Grain Elevator at Farmers, in which connfection he continued for five
years. He afterward purchased the collection business conducted
under the name of the Nebraska State Mercantile Agency and
remained active in that field until appointed chief of police of Hast-
ings, the duties of which position he assumed on the 13th of April,
1915, the appointment coming to him from Mayor Madgett. He is
making an excellent record in the office, the duties of which he is dis-
charging promptly and fearlessly.
On the 28th of October, 1908, Mr. Crosson was united in marriage
to JNIiss Bertha Moore, of Hall county, a daughter of Joel N. Moore,
and their children are INIildred and Raymond. The family are Prot-
estants in religious faith and in his political views Mr. Crosson is an
earnest republican, putting forth eff'ective and earnest efi^ort to ad-
vance the interests and growth of his party. He belongs to the blue
lodge of JNIasons, to the Woodmen of the World and the Modern
Woodmen of America and is well known in connection with military
interests of the state, having long been identified with the National
Guard. He enlisted in the Hastings Rifles on the 2d of July, 1906,
when the companj^ was formed, and was promoted to the rank of
corporal on the 2d of August, of that year. He became sergeant in
May, 1907, first sergeant in February, 1908, and on the 1st of August
of that year the Rifles were mustered into Company D, of the second
regiment of the Nebraska National Guard. In February, 1909, Mr.
Ci'osson was made second lieutenant and on the resignation of Captain
Boggs and First Lieutenant H. R. Brown he was placed in command
of Comjjany D and so continued until February, 1910, when Captain
Riff'e was appointed to the command of the company and jNIr. Crosson
was made first lieutenant. On the 2d of April, 1912, Mr. Crosson
was promoted to captain and took command, and in February, 1915,
he was advanced to the rank of major. He has attended all camp
maneuvers, officers' schools and rifle competitions and he had command
of a district in Omaha at the time of the tornado in 1913, when for a
great period the city was under martial law to protect the interests
of those who were rendered homeless. In recognition of his services
to the state at that time he was presented with a medal. He has a
very wide acquaintance in military circles throughout the state and is
prominent in that connection. He is a man of fine military bearing.
200 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
straight and erect, ready to command and yet never over hasty in
issuing orders but recognizing at all times the exigencies of a situa-
tion. The same qualities render him a most commendable official in
his present position as chief of police in Hastings.
C. C. CHRISTOPHER.
Prominent among the energetic, farsighted and successful busi-
ness men of Hastings is C. C. Christopher, the manager of the
Hastings Equity Grain Bm Company. He is strong and pm-pose-
ful, ready to meet any condition or emergency that arises and along
the well defined lines of trade and commerce is gaining substantial
success. He was born in Greene comity, Pennsylvania, on the 17th
of 31arch, 18.57, and is a son of William C. and Mary (Reeves)
Christopher. The father was a farmer by occupation and thus pro-
vided for the support of his family, which mmibered four sons and
two daughters, but both he and his wife are now deceased.
C. C. Christopher was educated in the j^ublic schools and when
his textbooks were put aside continued to remain with and assist his
father until he reached the age of twenty-seven years. He was then
married and removed to Iowa, where he remamed for two years, on
the expiration of which period he became a resident of Hall county,
Nebraska. There he purchased land and engaged in farming until
1908, when he came to Hastings, where he pm-chased land and built
a home. In 1910 he became connected with the Hastings Equity
Grain Bin Company as manager. In fact he was one of the organ-
izers of the company, which does job work in sheet metal and also
shop work all over the state and also into southeastern Elinois,
Wyoming, Kansas, Colorado and South Dakota. This is one of the
important productive industries of Hastings, employing twenty-five
men. They manufacture tanks for evert- need, including garages,
grain bins, undergroimd gasoline systems, for water, milk, oU, grain,
also dipping, wagon, scalding, thi-esher. cistern, tower and supply
tanks. They have a large and well apj^ointed plant at Hastings,
comprising the manufacturing building and the warehouse. Their
tanks are manufactured from the best grade of material obtainable
and are rust proof. The tanks which they manufacture show many
points of excellence over others and by reason of this their business
is constantly and steadily growing, having already reached gratifying
proportions.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 201
On the 31st of January, 1883, Mr. Christopher was united in
marriage to Miss ^Maggie E. Price, a daughter of W. H. Price, of
New Jersey. They have four children, namely: Edward; Edith,
who is the wife of W. B. Brown; ^Nlay, who assists her father in his
plant; and Vern. The religious faith of the family is that of the
Evangelical church.
In his fraternal relations lSh\ Christopher is an Odd FelloAv and
is also connected with the Knights of Luther. He belongs to the
Commercial Club and gives his political allegiance to the reiJublican
partj\ For twenty-one years he served as township treasurer, was
also a member of the school board for some time and has been town-
ship clerk. He is now concentrating his efforts, however, upon his
business affairs, which are capably directed and are bringing to him
gratifying returns. He Avorks hard, closely ajiplies himself to tlie
interests of the business, studies out new methods and improvements
and is continually advancing the standard of excellence maintained
by the house.
JOHN RUHTER.
John Ruhter, who has gained financial independence through
wisely directing his farming activities, now holds title to five hundred
acres of excellent land in Roseland township. He was born in Han-
over, Germany, near the city of Hamburg, on the 24th of February,
1850, of the marriage of Henry and ^lary (Banidt) Ruhter, Avho
were born and reared in that locality. They continued to reside there
until 1866, when with their family they came to the United States,
locating in ^Minnesota, fifty miles east of St. Paul, where the father
died. Subsequently the mother removed to Kansas and there she
passed away. They were the jiarents of eleven children, as follows:
John; Peter, who is living in Long Beach, California; Jacob, a resi-
dent of Verona township; Mary, the deceased wife of Henry
Augustin, Sr., who is living near Prosser; flattie, who married Fred
Alms, of York county, Nebraska : Henry, of Hastings : George, who
is living in Cheyemie county, Nebraska; Anna, the wife of John
Stehr, of Gregory county. South Dakota ; William, of Norfolk, Ne-
braska; Fred, of Clay county, Kansas: and Emma, who is residing
with her brother Fred.
John Ruhter was educated in the public schools of Germany and
of JNIinnesota and remained at home until 1874. In the meantime he
202 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
had been thoroughly trained in agricultural work and on begimiing
his independent career he came to Adams county, Nebraska, and pur-
chased his present home farm on section 5, Roseland township, which
was raw prairie when it came into his possession. He at once set about
its development and has brought the land to a high state of cultivation
and has made many fine improvements. There are two sets of build-
ings upon the place, which now comprises five hundred and eighty
acres, and his work is facilitated by the use of the most up-to-date
implements. He has manifested the qualities of determination, fore-
sight, thoroughness and thrift and the signal success which he has
gained as an agriculturist is the direct result of his own industry and
good management.
In 1879 Mr. Ruhter married Miss Katie SchifFerns, a daughter
of Peter and Susie (Pauly) SchifFerns, who came to this state from
Illinois in 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Ruhter have had ten children: Susie,
who died when two years old; P. H., a resident of Hall county,
Nebraska; Emma, the wife of Charles Oldfeldt, who is farming in
Cottonwood township; Ada, who married Fred Tauty, of Verona
township; Fred, at home; Amelia, the wife of William Struss, who
is living near Kenesaw; Caroline, the deceased wife of Richard Struss;
and Charles, August and Anna, all at home.
]\Ir. Ruhter casts his ballot in favor of the man whom he deems
best suited for the office regardless of his political allegiance. He has
served as school director for the past thirty-eight years and during
that time has been instrumental in bringing about great advancement
in school affairs in his district. Both he and his wife hold member-
ship in the German Lutheran church and their lives are guided by its
teachings. For forty-two years he has been a resident of this county
and he is not only widely but is also favorably known, his genuine
worth being attested by all who have come in contact with him.
SIMEON JOHNSTON.
Simeon Johnston makes his home in Juniata, where he assisted in
building the first house of the town, arriving here with the first load
of lumber which was brought from Grand Island. His original place
of residence was a little sod house, while his present home is one of
the finest in the town. For a considerable period he engaged in gen-
eral farming and at the present is living retired, enjoying the fruits
of his former toil. He was born near ]Mount Jackson in Lawrence
Jffi. AND MKS. 8IMEON .loHNSTON
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 205
count j% Pennsylvania, January 4, 1844, a son of David and Margaret
(IMcGeithen) Johnston, who spent their entire lives in the Keystone
state, both jiassing away about the time of the Civil war. Tlie father
followed the occupation of farming and thus provided for his family
of four children, of whom the three eldest, Eliza Ann, Margaret and
John, are all now deceased.
Simeon Johnston, the only survivor of the family, pursued his
education in the common schools of Pennsylvania and was reared to
farm life, having the usual experiences that come to the farm lad as
he divides his time between the work of the schoolroom and the work
of the fields. At the outbreak of the Civil war he attempted to enlist
but was not accepted. Finally, however, on the 5th of September,
1862, he was permitted to join the army and enlisted for three years,
serving until the close of the war. He was taken prisoner at Mill-
wood, Virginia, December 17, 1864, and was not exchanged until the
following JMarch. On one occasion his horse was shot from under
him and fell upon him, from which he suffers a rupture to the present
time. He was a member of Company B, Fourteenth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, and with that command participated in the battles of Rocky
Gap, Cedar Creek and a large number of skirmishes with the troops
of General Sheridan. After being caj^tured he was in the prison at
Richmond, Virginia, for three months and his health was greatly
underminded by the hardships of southern prison life, necessitating a
period of rest in which to recuperate after the close of the war.
Mr. Johnston continued to live in Pennsjdvania until 1868, when
he removed to Clinton county, IMichigan, where he engaged in farm-
ing until the spring of 1871, when he removed to Nebraska and home-
steaded the southwest quarter of section 18, Denver township, Adams
county. With the development and progress of the county he has
since been closely identified. From Grand Island he hauled the firsb
load of lumber into Jimiata and assisted in erecting the first building
here. On his own claim he built a sod house, planted trees and put
out an orchard, but during the grasshopper j)lague the insects took
the orchard and killed the trees. In 1874, however, he planted an-
other orchard and he continued the work of further developing and
imj^roving liis jjroperty until he had converted it into a very valuable
and productive farm. He broke his land with ox teams and for four
years continued to do his farm work with oxen before he was able to
purchase a team of horses. He started out practically emi^ty handed
but he was industrious and ambitious and made good use of his oppor-
tunities, while his persistent labors j^ear by year enabled him to
progress steadily toward* the goal of success. He is still the owner
206 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of one hundred and sixty acres of land — the old homestead place in
Denver township — and he continued to carry on general farming
until nine years ago, when he took up his abode in the town of Juniata,
where he now owns a fine residence which he occupies and also the
adjoining house.
]Mr. Johnston has been twice married. In December, 1867, he
wedded JNliss Margaret P. ]McCollum, by whom he had five children,
as follows : Joseph, who is deceased ; Alfred, a resident of Fullerton,
California; Harry C, living in Vancouver, Washington; Jessie, who
died in the '80s; and Earl, who is a resident of Juniata. The wife
and mother passed away Februarj^ 1, 1905, and in the following year
JNIr. Johnston was again married, his second union being with ]Mrs.
D. R. Ball, the widow of D. R. Ball, who was born in Henry county,
Indiana. He served for three j^ears and ten months as a soldier in
the Union army during the Civil war and he continued his residence
in his native state until 1880, when he came to Juniata. To IMr. and
Mrs. Ball were born five children, namely: Cora, who is the wife of
George Bivins and lives a mile south of Juniata: JNIary E., w^ho gave
her hand in marriage to G. N. INIunger, of Hastings, Nebraska;
Cloyd S., a resident of Spirit Lake, Idaho; and Wilbur and Olive,
both of whom are deceased.
jNIr. and INIrs. Johnston are members of the Baptist church and
he holds membership in the Grand Army post at Juniata. Their in-
fluence is always on the side of progress and improvement, of truth
and of right and their well spent lives have gained for them the warm
and enduring regard of many friends. As pioneer settlers of the
count}^ they have witnessed practically its entire development, ]Mr.
Johnston having made his home within the borders of Adams county
for about forty-five years, during which he has seen notable changes
as the wild land has been converted into productive farms, as towns
and villages have sprung up and as all the advantages of the older
east have been introduced.
ALEXANDER H. CRAMER.
Alexander H. Cramer is a pioneer resident of Hastings and one
of the leading real estate and loan agents of the city, handling l)oth
farm and town property. He possesses untiring energy, is quick of
perception and forms his plans readily, while his close application to
business and his excellent judgment have brought to him the high
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 207
degree of jjrosperit}^ which is today his. A native of New York, he
was born in the city of Utica, January 31, 1852, and was four years
of age when the familj^ removed to Wisconsin, setthng on a farm in
Waushara countJ^ There he attended the public schools until he
reached the age of seventeen years, when he removed to Oneida, Knox
county, Illinois, where he had two brothers living. There he spent
nine months a year as a high school pupil for about four years and
during vacation periods worked upon farms or engaged in clerking.
During a part of the last year he was employed in the store of Pratt
& Lawson, the owners of the business being George H. Pratt and
Charles K. Lawson, who on selling out came to what is now the city
of Hastings. Wishing to retain the services of JNIr. Cramer, they
induced him also to come to the west and he arrived in this city on the
1st of October, 1872, assisting his employers in the erection of their
store building and afterward continuing with them as a clerk. All
three were young men and they kept "bachelors' hall" over the store
during that winter, JNIr. Cramer doing the cooking while the others
furnished the food. This arrangement jiroved veiy satisfactory to
the three and there were pleasant hours spent in that way.
In the spring of 1873 Mr. Cramer began working in a lumber yard
as it was his desire to have outdoor employment, which he hoped would
prove beneficial to his health. On the 13th of April, 1873, a terrific
snow storm occurred accompanied bj^ high and violent winds. The
storm raged for three days and three nights and ]Mr. Cramer says no
other such storm has occurred during all of the forty-four years of
his residence in Nebraska. The country was then sparsely settled, so
that the homes were few and far between and several people were
lost in the blizzard. JNIr. Cramer continued to Avork in the lumber
yard until December of that year and in the month of October was
elected county clerk of Adams county, assuming the duties of the
position in the following January. Under the law of that time the
countjr clerk was also ex-ofiicio register of deeds and district clerk.
He was reelected in 187.5 and again in 1877, serving in all for six
years, making a most creditable record by the prompt and capable
manner in which he discharged his duties. In 1874 he secured a con-
tract with the Union Pacific Railroad Company to sell their lands and
the clerk of the court was authorized to make out applications and
final proofs of homesteads, jireemptions and tree claims and transmit
them to the government land ofl^ce, which was a great convenience to
the homesteaders, obviating the necessity of their making a trip to the
land office. JNIr. Cramer sold large tracts of Union Pacific Railway
lands, ranging in price from three to eight dollars per acre. In 1871)
208 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
the clerk of the district court was made an independent office separate
from the city and INIr. Cramer was elected to the position and ser^^ed
for four j'ears, at the same time continuing his real estate business.
He continued in business altogether for ten years and his experience
during that period well qualified him to engage in the real estate, loan
and abstract business, to which he tm'ned his attention in January,
1885. However, he had begun making farm loans in 1875 and has
since continued active along that line. His first loans were made at
twelve per cent interest and twenty per cent commission. In January,
1912, he sold his interest in the abstract and real estate business, main-
taining his interest in the loan business, which he still conducts. He
places loans on farm and city property and he is thoroughly conversant
with real estate values and with the financial standing of the majority
of Adams county's citizens, so that his business is most carefully con-
ducted, insuring him against loss.
On the 13th of October, 1874, Mr. Cramer was united in mar-
riage to Miss Ella E. Cox, a native of Indiana, who came to this
county in August, 1873, with her parents, having acquired her educa-
tion in the schools of her native state. INIr. and Mrs. Cramer have
become the parents of two children: Edna, now Mrs. Henry F.
Jacobson, of Hastings ; and jNIabel, at home.
In his political views Mr. Cramer is a republican and served as a
member of the first board of education in Hastings in 1881, at which
time there were but three members on the board, which now numbers
nine. He acted in that capacitj' for nine years, and during four years
of that time served as secretary. He was also supervisor during the
years 1888 and 1889 and for eleven years was city treasurer. Over
the record of his official career there falls no shadow of wrong nor
suspicion of evil, for he has ever been most loyal to the interests
reposed in him and has discharged his duties in a prompt and business-
like manner. Fraternally he is connected Avith Hastings Lodge, No.
50, A. F. & A. IM., and has attained the thirty-second degree in the
Scottish Rite. He was also a charter member of the Knights of
Pythias lodge and his wife and daughters are members of the Presby-
terian church. ]Mr. Cramer's career is a notable and commendable
one. He had a cash capital of but fourteen dollars and a half when
he arrived in Hastings and, moreover, was suffering from ill health.
He came to a frontier district in which the work of development and
progress seemed scarcely begun. He has since taken an active part in
the work of the upbuilding and improvement of city and county,
cooperating in all plans and measures which look to the welfare and
betterment of the community. As time has gone on he has become
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 209
the owner of considerable city property and has laid out the east side
addition. He is truly a self-made man and one who deserves great
credit for what he has accomplished in a business way. His social
qualities have gained him personal popularity, winning for him the
friendship and kindly regard of all with whom he has been associated,
and as one of the honored pioneer residents he well deserves mention
in a history of Adams county.
GEORGE H. POULSON.
George H. Poulson is now living retired from active business
life but for a considerable period was identified with general agri-
cultural pursuits and in the capable management of his business
affairs won a substantial measure of success. He remained upon his
farm until September, 1915, when, putting aside all business activi-
ties, he took up his abode in Hastings. He was born in INIcLean
county, Illinois, on the 1st of March, 1867. His father, Peter Poul-
son, was born and reared in Pickaway county, Ohio, his natal day
being December 24, 1833. He was married in 1857 to INIatilda
Messie, of Pickaway county, where he engaged in farming until 1864,
when he removed to Illinois, where he carried on general agricultural
pursuits until 1892. That year witnessed his arrival in Adams
county, Nebraska, after which he engaged in farming about ten miles
northeast of Hastings. His wife died in 1907 and subsequently he
lived with his children until the time of his death, which occurred
SeiJtember 26, 1914. He had sons and daughters to the number of
ten. John, who was born August 17, 1859, married Bertha Reed, of
Iroquois county, Illinois, and they have seven children. Andrew E.,
born January 2, 1861, married JMollie Carter, of Iroquois county,
Illinois, by whom he has two children, and now makes his home near
Overton, Nebraska, where he is engaged in farming. David, who
was born February 5, 1863, is also engaged in farming near Overton.
He married Emma INIcCoy, of JMcLean county, Illinois, and they
Jiave six children. JNIary, born JNIarch 19, 1865, is the wife of Alfred
Cunningham. George H. is the next of the family. Ida, born JNIarch
21, 1869, is the wife of Mont Salyards, of Iroquois county, Illinois,
who is now engaged in farming near Brady, Nebraska, and they have
three children. ISIyrtle, born March 22, 1871, is the wife of Ernest
Crawford, of Denver, Colorado, by whom she has three children.
210 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Lula, born November 5, 1873, became the wife of Cassius Crane, of
Iroquois county, Illinois, and died in Virginia, leaving five children.
Emma, born February 13, 1878, is living at Lodgepole, Nebraska.
Will, born Ajjril 15, 1880, married SoiJhie Hoffman, by whom he has
two children, and resides at Overton, Nebraska.
George H. Poulson, spending his youthful days in his native
comity, there attended the public schools until he reached the age of
eleven years, when his i^arents removed with their family to Say-
brook, Illinois, where he resided for six years, attending the town
schools of that place until he reached the age of seventeen. In 1884
the family took up their abode upon a farm in Iroquois comity, Illi-
nois, and George H. Poulson continued to assist his father in the
cultivation and improvement of that place until 1891. On the 28tli
of January of the latter year he arrived in Adams county, Nebraska,
where he engaged in farming in connection with his brother, Andrew
L. Poulson, on a tract of land ten miles northeast of Hastings. He
planted trees and cared for them in order to prove up the land as a
timber claim, doing this for the owner, Edgar Lewis, to which work
he devoted a year. In the sjiring of 1892 his parents came to Adams
county and George H. Poulson purchased a farm eleven miles north-
east of Hastings and for a year carried on general farming there
with his father. He then sold the property and returned to his first
farm after his marriage. He remained thereon continuously until
1915 with the exception of the years 1909 and 1910, during which
time he resided in Colorado, being engaged in fruit raising near
Canon City. He then returned to this county and again occupied
the old homestead farm until September, 1915, when he retired from
active business life and removed to Hastings, where he is now enjoy-
ing a period of well earned rest with leisure to indulge in those activ-
ities which are a matter of interest or recreation to him.
On the 21st of December, 1892, JNIr. Poulson was married to jMiss
Belle Cunningham, a daughter of James Cunningham, who had been
a neighboring farmer of the Poulson family in Illinois. He was born
in County Wicklow, Ireland, ^lay 18, 1833, and when about ten
years of age had accompanied his parents on the voyage across the
Atlantic, the family home being established in Guelph, Canada.
After the death of his father James Cunningham, then about sixteen
years of age, started out in life on his own account and finally went
to Ohio, where he remained until about 1864., when he removed to
INIcLean county, Illinois, and subsequently to Iroquois county, that
state. In the spring of 1891 he arrived in Adams county, Nebraska,
and purchased a farm comprising the southeast quarter of section 12,
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 211
township 8, range 9, known as the Holdemian timber claim, upon
which he resided for some time, but for a few years prior to 1910 he
spent a part of his time in Trumbull, Nebraska, with his son. In the
year mentioned he sold his farm and purchased a home in Trumbull,
where he remained until his death, which occurred on the 4th of
December, 1915. It was in 1858 that he wedded Caroline StumpfF,
a daughter of William StumpfF, of Harrisburg, Ohio, and they had
two sons and four daughters who came to Adams county. Their
eldest son, Alfred, born in JNIcLean county, Illinois, in 1864, arrived
in Adams county in 1888, driving a team across the country from
Iroquois county, Illinois, after which he rented a farm four miles
southwest of Giltner, Nebraska, remaining thereon for seventeen
years. In 1911 he removed to Garden county, Nebraska, where he
again purchased a farm. He was married in Illinois to JNIiss ]\Iary
Poulson, a sister of George Poulson, and they had eight sons. Alfred
Cunningham was a prominent and influential citizen of Adams
county and twice represented his district in the state legislature.
Death terminated his career on the 30th of December, 1913. Belle
Cunningham, the second of the family, was born in JNIcLean count}',
Illinois, July 6, 1866, and prior to her marriage engaged in teaching
in a country school which her children have since attended. Jennie,
born in 1867, was for twenty years a most able teacher in the country
schools of Adams, Clay and Hamilton counties of Nebraska and in
1912 she became the wife of J. Helm Haggard, of Clay county, who
is now living retired in Trumbull. Edith, born in 1872, died in 1910.
Anna, born in 1874, is the Avife of A. R. Rich, a grain buyer of Trum-
bull. Alvin, born in 1880, wedded JNIary Harter, a daughter of Lou
Harter, who follows farming near Giltner, Nebraska. The^' have
three children.
James Cunningham, the father of these children, died on the 4th
of December, 1915, and in his passing the community lost a valued
and representative citizen. He' had been a lifelong member of the
Christian church, serving as a deacon in the church for fifty years, a
part of that time at Trumbull. Success had come to him through
earnest and indefatigable effort and his life was ever upright and
honorable. There have been several marriages between relatives of
the Poulson and Cunningham families that are interesting because of
their oddity. The grandfatlier of JNIrs. Poulson was William
Stumpff, who married Ella jNIessie, the grandmother of JNIr. Poul-
son. Again, Peter IMeyers, an uncle of JNIr. Poulson, wedded INIary
StumpfF, an aunt of JNIrs. Poulson, while the Poulson and Cunning-
ham families were more closely connected through the marriage of
212 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Alfred Cunningham to Mary Poulson and of George Poulson to
Belle Cunningham.
To JNIr. and JMrs. Poulson have been born three children: Earl
L., who was born February 10, 1894, and was a student in a business
college at Canon City while residing in Colorado; Clifford E., who
was born November 1, 1895, and is now a senior in high school; and
Laura Belle, who was born September 1, 1897, and is also a senior
in high school in Hastings.
The family holds membership in the Christian church and for a
number of years Mr. Poulson was an elder in the church at Trum-
bull and also suiierintendent of the Sunday school. He takes a most
active and helpful interest in all departments of church work and in
fact does everything in his power to promote the progress of the com-
munity and advance its material, intellectual and moral interests.
His political allegiance is given to the republican party but the hon-
ors and emoluments of office have never had any attraction for him
as he has always preferred to concentrate his energies upon his busi-
ness affairs, which, wisely, carefully and honorably directed, have
brought to him a most gratifying success.
JOSEPH MILLIGAN.
For many j'ears Joseph Milligan was connected with railroading
but he subsequently turned his attention to agricultvu'al pursuits and
is now living upon his farm in Juniata township. He was born in
Creton, Scotland, on the 4th of September, 1831, in a house which
his grandfather erected and in which, fifteen years later, the birth of
his father, John Milligan, occurred. The latter passed his entire life
in Scotland and followed the stonecutter's trade. He married jMiss
Jane Dowell, also a lifelong resident of that country, and they became
the parents of ten children, of whom our subject is the eldest and all
of whom are living in the United States with the exception of the
youngest brother. He returned to Scotland after residing in this
country for a year and now lives in the old home.
Joseph Milligan received his education in the common schools and
after putting aside his textbooks worked in a garden and nursery and
subsequently in a stone quarry. In 1852, when twenty-one years of
age, he emigrated to the United States, crossing the Atlantic on a
sailing vessel which was twenty-one days en route. He landed at
New York city, where he remained for a few months but at the end
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 213
of that time removed to Chicago. A short time later he went to
Joliet, lUinois, and for fifteen years was a resident of Will county.
Wliile there he engaged chieflj^ in railroad work but after removing
to Kankakee county turned his attention to farming. In 1878 he
removed to Nebraska and took up his residence in Juniata township,
Adams count}\ He devoted three years to farming and during that
time lived in a sod house, which fact is indicative of the pioneer con-
ditions that prevailed. At the end of that time he again turned liis
attention to railroading and removed to the section house and in 1883
was made section foreman, a position which he filled satisfactorily for
thirteen years. At the end of that time he resumed farming and is
still living upon his place on section 5, Juniata township. He owns
eighty acres of good land, which is well improved, and derives a grati-
fying financial return from the farm. Since his sons have started out
in life for themselves he has rented his farm as he has reached the
advanced age of eighty-four years and is living in honorable retire-
ment.
Mr. INIilligan was married, in Joliet, Illinois, in 1864, to Miss
JNIartha Ellen Parson, who was born in Indiana, and they have become
the jjarents of seven children, namely : JNIartha, the wife of Clinton
]Meecham, of Grand Island; Rose, deceased; Libby, who married
Grant Ruby, who is farming near our subject; Clara, the wife of
Theodore Signer, who resides a half-mile south of Juniata; William
Otto, a railroad engineer residing at Alberton, Montana; Edward,
Avho is living in North Dakota ; and John, who was a ticket agent at
ISIarion, Iowa, and was accidentally killed there.
JNIr. ]\Iilligan has sujiported the republican party for years but
when he deems that the interests of the community can be best served
by voting independently he does not hesitate to do so. Both he and
his wife are consistent members of the INIethodist Episcopal church,
which he aided in organizing and the work of which they have always
furthered to the extent of their ability. His life has conformed to
high standards and has been filled with efl^cient and useful labor.
ALBERT E. LIVINGSTON.
Albert E. Livingston is well known in Hastings, where much of
his life has been passed, and as a business man and citizen is held in
the highest regard. He was born in Jersey county, Illinois, April 15,
1874, and is a son of Albert Livingston, Sr., who still remains at the
214 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUXTY
head of the undertaking business which he established many years ago
and who is represented elsewhere in this volmne. The son pm-sued his
education in the public schools, supplemented by a busmess course.
He had special training for his chosen calling in study in the Champion
College of Embalming at Chicago, from which he was graduated with
the class of 1890. He then taught embalming to students who were
office i^upils, among whom were: Volland, of Hastings; Ed Town-
send, of Tecumseh; F. Gotchelda, of Utica and others, conducting
business in various parts of the state. He graduates pupils and gives
diplomas and in his instruction follows the latest and most improved
methods.
In religious faith ]Mr. Livingston is a ]Methodist and in jjolitics is
independent, supjiorting men and measures rather than party. Fra-
ternally he is connected with the Knights of P}i:hias, the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, the ^Mystic Legion and the ^Maccabees. He
has a wide acquaintance in Hastings and different parts of the state
and displays many sterling qualities which win for him high regard
among all with whom he comes in contact.
ALBERT WELLS BORDEX.
Prominent among the enterprising, progressive and determined
business men of Hastings is Albert Wells Borden, manager of the
gas company and also the vice president and one of the stockholders
in the busmess. He was born in Kings county, Xova Scotia, Decem-
ber 18, 1880, a son of A. W. and Louisa (Woodbury) Borden. The
father was also a native of Kings comity and engaged in the shipping
business, handling maritime supplies. He was active in public aif airs
to the time of his death, which occurred when he was but forty-four
years of age. His wife, who was born in Annapolis, jSIaryland, is
still living at the age of seventy-one years.
Their son, Albert W. Borden, attended a private school in his
native county and afterward continued his education in Acacia Col-
lege at Hortonville, X'ova Scotia. At seventeen years of age he be-
came connected with a gas light company at ]\Iount 'N'ernon, X"ew
York, and since that time has been identified with similar business
enterprises, winning success in his chosen field of labor. He went to
Galesburg, Illinois, as assistant to the superintendent of the gas com-
pany at that place and in 1903 he came to Hastings as manager for
the Hastings Gas Company, which is a corporation. Becoming
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 215
financially interested in the undertaking, lie is now vice president.
He rebuilt the j)lant, which represents a large investment, and the
latest processes are used in the manufacture of gas and in supplj'ing
the commodity to the customers. He is likewise interested in the gas
companj' at Grand Island and is regarded as one of the representative
business men of his city.
In early manhood JNIr. Borden was united in marriage to Miss
Julia Ferris, a native of Woodhull, Illinois, and a daughter of Robert
O. and Estelle (Richards) Ferris, both of whom were born in Gales-
burg, Illinois, and now reside at Hastings, Nebraska. The father
successfully followed farming in Illinois and remained an active and
public-sj^irited citizen of Galesburg until 1908, when he removed to
Hastings, where he has since been known as a well-to-do retired resi-
dent. ]Mr. and JNIrs. Borden have two children: Ferris W., born
September 16, 1908; and Robert Wells, whose natal day was jNIarch
18, 1913.
Fraternally JNIr. Borden is connected with the Benevolent Pro-
tective Order of Elks, in which he has held office, and Avith the Travel-
ers Protective Association. He is a member and one of the directors
of the Chamber of Commerce and takes an active and helpful interest
in all of its affairs relating to the general development and imjirove-
ment. His religious faith is that of the ]Methodist church and he
exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures
of the republican part}', of which he is a stahvart advocate, doing all
in his power to promote its growth and extend its influence. In his
chosen field of business he has steadily advanced, working his way
upward step by step, his exjjanding powers winning for him a
creditable position in the business circles of Hastings.
J. E. ADDIE.
J. E. Addie is the junior partner in the law firm of Ragan &
Addie of Hastings, prominent representatives of the profession in
Adams county. He is actively identified Avith a calling which has
imjjortant bearing ujion the progress and stability of everv com-
munity by conserving the rights and jjrivileges of the individual, and
it is well knoAvn that in the conduct of his cases he is thorough and
painstaking and that his devotion to his clients' interests is proverbial.
INIr. Addie is a native of Iowa, his birth having occurred at Cresco on
the 15th of January, 1875, his parents being John and Christina
216 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Addie, both of whom are now living. The family is of Scotch lineage
and the parents resided for some time in Wisconsin before removing
to Iowa, where the father followed the occupation of farming in
order to provide for the support of his wife and children.
At the usual age J. E. Addie became a public school pupil and
passed through consecutive grades to his graduation from the high
school. Later he pursued a classical course of study at Milton Col-
lege, at Milton, Wisconsin, and at Valparaiso University, and then
entered upon the study of law in the Indianapolis College of Law,
from which he was graduated with the class of 1904. He made
thorough i^reparation for his profession and since entering upon active
practice has constantly advanced. He located first at Friend, Ne-
braska, where he remained from 1905 until 1913, when he removed to
Hastings and here entered upon his present j)artnership as a member
of the firm of Ragan & Addie. He displays ability in putting forth
the strong jjoints in his case and in detecting the weak points in his
adversary's cause and as the years have gone by his powers in argu-
ment have increased, while his pleas are characterized by a clear and
decisive logic. The firm are now attorneys for the Chicago & North
Western Railroad, for the Hastings & Northwestern Railroad and
the Union Pacific Railroad.
On the 17th of October, 1907, Mr. Addie was united in marriage
to Miss Ethel Riggle, a daughter of B. F. Riggle, of Callaway,
Nebraska. They have one child, Dwight B. The religious faith of
the family is that of the Congregational church and Mr. Addie also
holds membership with the Odd Fellows, the Ancient Order of United
^Vorkmen and the Modern Woodmen. In his political views Mr.
Addie is an earnest republican and he was appointed United States
commissioner for this district by Judge Thomas Munger. He is fond
of outdoor life and indulges his taste in that direction whenever the
demands of his practice give him opportunity.
ALBERT LIVINGSTON.
A record of the leading business men of Hastings would be incom-
plete were there failure to make reference to Albert Livingston, who
is one of "The Livingstons," undertakers, in which connection they are
conducting a large business. He was born in Delaware, February
18. 1834, and is a son of James and Sarah (Kirkpatrick) Livingston,
farming people, who have long since passed away.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 217
The son was educated in the public schools and his early training
and environment were that of the home farm. He continued to assist
in the work of the fields until he attained his majority, after which he
began learning the carpenter's trade, following that pursuit for many
years. In 1858 he became a resident of Illinois, where he continued
to work at the carpenter's trade and also engaged in farming for about
sixteen years. In 1884 he arrived in Nebraska and the family home
was established upon a farm near Harvard. He was thereafter iden-
tified with general agricultural pursuits in this part of the state for
nineteen years, or until 1903, when he removed to Hastings. He had
engaged in the undertaking business in Harvard and after coming to
Hastings opened undertaking parlors, which are still carried on.
In 1861 JNIr. Livingston was united in marriage to J\Iiss Viola
Gatewood and to them have been born four children: Anna B.;
Francis ; and Albert E. and Walter, who are connected with the under-
taking business.
JMr. Livingston is connected with the United Brethren church and
has guided his life by its teachings. He has taken an advanced stand
on the temperance question, voting with the prohibition party, and he
favors every jslan and measure that will benefit the comniunity and
better the conditions among which the people live. His has been an
active and useful life and wherever known he is held in high esteem.
He was the founder of the business, which is now carried on under the
name of "The Livingstons," undertakers. This firm teaches under-
taking and gives diplomas to its students. They have one of the most
complete establishments of the kind in the state and the father and
sons were among the first to take the state examination for funeral
directors, their licenses bearing the numbers 12 and 13. They passed
the examination with the highest rank and the two sons, Albert E. and
Walter, are members of the State Funeral Directors Association.
They embalmed the body of John O'Connor, a recluse, who died
August 17, 1913. They used fiuids of their own manufacture and
the body is still in a perfect state of preservation, being viewed daily
by many people. It has been seen by thousands and is regarded as
the finest specimen of embalming. This man died without a will or
known relatives, leaving an estate valued at one hundred thousand
dollars. One hundred and fifty people have put in claims for the
O'Connor estate, claiming to be relatives of the man, but the question
has not yet been settled, hence the body continues to lie in the Liv-
ingston vault. The firm carries the finest display of caskets in the
state, representing investments of many thousands of dollars. They
operate two auto hearses, two horse hearses, a limousine and a travel-
218 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
ing car. Thej^ have their own chapel, in which funeral services may
be held, and they are prejDared to take care of the business in the best
possible way. The father still remains an active factor in the busi-
ness although he has now passed the eighty-second milestone on life's
journey. JNIuch of the more arduous work, however, is left to the
two sons, Albert E. and Walter, who for a long period have been asso-
ciated with their father in the establishment.
CHARLES MAN AH AN.
Charles JNIanahan represents that percentage of Hastings' citizens
who have retired from active business, success in former years en-
abling them to rest from further labor. A native of Sandusk}" county,
Ohio, he Avas born on the 24th of October, 1869, and is a son of Ira
and Nancy (Weatherwax) Manahan. The former was a farmer by
occupation, following that pursuit throughout his entire life. He has
now passed awaj', but his widow survives.
Charles JNIanahan pursued his early education in the district schools
and also has learned many lessons in the school of experience. His
early training was that of the farm lad, for in his youthful days he
began work in the fields and soon became familiar with all the duties
incident to the develojiment of the fields. He left home at the age of
seventeen years and began farming on his own account in Indiana.
On the 8th of February, 1891, he came to Nebraska, where he was
again engaged in general agricultural pursuits, carrying on farming
on his own account in Kenesaw township, Adams county. His atten-
tion was devoted to general farming until 1908, when he came to
Hastings, Avhere he has since resided. Here he erected a residence
at No. 1001 North St. Joe street and is now most jjleasantly situated
in life. As a farmer he was progressive and enterprising and brought
his land to a high state of cultivation, converting the prairie into rich
and productive fields which annually brought forth golden harvests
as a reward for the care and labor which he bestowed upon them. He
followed the most progressive methods in his farm work and year by
year his competence increased. He is still interested in farm lands in
Adams county and other parts of the state and his property brings
to him a gratifying income.
On the 22d of November, 1894, IMr. jNIanahan was united in mar-
riage to ]\Iiss IMinnie Matlick, a daughter of Isaac INIatlick. They
have one son, Vern, In religious faith Mr. Manahan and his family
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 219
are Presbj^terians and in political belief he is a republican. He keeps
well informed on the questions and issues of the daj^ and is therefore
able to support his position by intelligent argument. Fraternally he
is connected with the Elks and his wife is a member of the Eastern
Star. He is highly respected and is popular wherever he is known
because of a social, genial nature which appreciates the good qualities
of others. He holds to high standards of manhood and citizenship, is
free from ostentation and disjjlay and has many sterling traits of
character.
JOSEPH R. SIMS.
Josejih R. Sims engaged in contracting and was one of the leaders
in that line of work in Hastings. He passed awaj^ on the 18th of
March, 1901, and his demise was the occasion of much sincere grief.
He was born in England on the 21st of June, 1848, and was a son of
William and Louisa Sims, who emigrated to the United States when
he was but six j^ears of age. His early education was acquired in the
public schools of Scranton, Pennsylvania, although he continued to
study and read widely throughout his life. When twenty-four years
of age he went to Chicago and there took a course in building. Subse-
quently he returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained until 1877,
when he came to Adams county, Nebraska, and located in Hastings.
He engaged in contracting and erected many of the fine residences of
the city and its vicinity, his reliability and the thoroughness with which
he did his work recommending him to the public. Although he had
to Avork his way up from the bottom, having no capital and no_ influ-
ential friends when he began his career, he never wavered in his deter-
mination to gain success and his untiring industry, his exact technical
knowledge and his business ability enabled him to gain prosperity.
Mr. Sims was married on the 7th of April, 1875, in Pennsylvania,
to INIiss JNIarion E. Hart, a daughter of Theodorus and Eliza
(Ruland) Hart. INIrs. Sims has two brothers and one sister living.
She is a descendant of Philip Hart and also of Jeremiah Hart, who
fought in the American Revolution. To JNIr. and IMrs. Sims were
born three children. Theodore, who was born in INIeshoppen, Penn-
sylvania, married INIiss Grace D. Brown, of Wyalusing, Pennsyl-
vania, and is now engaged in the jewelry business in Hastings.
Maude L. is deceased and is buried in Hastings. Joseph Forrest is
living at home and is operating a ranch south of Hastings.
220 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
Mr. Sims gave his political indorsement to the republican party
and served acceptablj' for one term as a member of the city council.
In religious faith he was a Baptist and fraternally he was connected
with the Odd Fellows lodge at Pittston, Pennsylvania, and with the
York Rite JNIasonic bodies and the ]\Iystic Shrine. He was highly
esteemed in those organizations and served as recorder of the blue
lodge. Although he passed away in 1901 his friends still honor his
memory and all who knew him testify as to his uprightness and his
l^ublic spirit.
CHARLES W. WINKLER.
Charles W. Winkler, who was for a considerable period success-
fullj^ engaged in the florist's business in Hastings, was born in
Wisconsin on the 7th of June, 1867. He became a resident of
Nebraska while still a boy and attended the common schools here
until he was fourteen or fifteen years of age, when he went to work
as a farm hand. Subsequently he engaged in stone cutting and still
later entered the employ of the John Davis men's furnishing store in
Hastings, where he remained for twenty-one years, his long connec-
tion with that business proving beyond a doubt his ability and trust-
worthiness. About 1900 he resigned his position there and engaged
in the florist's business at 1129 West Fourth street, Hastings, and
continued active in that line until his death on the 2d of August, 1914.
He managed his business aff'airs efficiently and built up a large and
representative patronage, winning an enviable reputation for fair
dealing and for supjilying plants and flowers Mhich retained their
freshness and vitality as long as could be expected. In the meantime
he iiurchased land and at the time of his death he owned two hundred
and forty acres in Denver township.
On tiae 28th of November, 1892, ISIr. Winkler was united in mar-
riage to Miss Ella E. Lulin, a daughter of Godfred and Anna (Bit-
ters) Luhn. Both of her parents were born in Germany but became
residents of Adams county, Nebraska, in its early days and subse-
quently homesteaded in Webster countj'. To INIr. and INIrs. Winkler
were born two children: Clarence, whose birth occurred in Adams
county on the 18th of January, 1895, is now engaged in business as
a florist, specializing in carnations; Charles, born October 15, 1908,
is attending the public schools.
CHARLES \V. WIXKLKR
PAST AXD PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 223
Mr, Winkler Avas an adherent of the republican party, but he
considered the qualifications of a candidate of greater importance than
his political allegiance and at times voted independently. His re-
ligious faith was that of the Christian church. At no time in his
career did he receive assistance from the outside but depended entirely
uj)on his own i-esources, and the success which he gained was the direct
result of his industry and careful planning.
GEORGE A. VOLLAND.
George A. Volland, who is engaged in the undertaking business
at Hastings, was born at Haigler, Nebraska, on the 30th of July, 1888,
his parents being Fred P. and JNIary (Kearney) Volland, the father a
native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and the mother of Illinois. They are
now residents of Omaha, Nebraska, and upon removing to this state
in 188-i settled in Adams county, where the father followed the carpen-
ter's trade. He afterward removed west to Haigler, Nebraska, still
later became a resident of Platteville, Colorado, and subsequently es-
tablished his home in Omaha, where he is still conducting business as a
contractor and builder. George A. Volland became a pupil in the
high school at Platteville, Colorado, and afterward qualified for the
onerous duties of a business career by a course of study in the Has-
tings Business College. He then entered upon active life as a book-
keeper and still later learned the undertaking business, remaining in
the employ of others until 1912, when he established business in Has-
tings as senior jjartner in the firm of Volland & Coon. He is still
carrying on this business and his house is accorded a liberal patronage.
He carries a large and well selected line of caskets and funeral sup-
plies and is most tactful and considerate in the conduct of his busi-
ness affairs.
In 1909 Mr. Volland was united in marriage to INIiss Paquita
Studebaker, a native of Kent, Illinois, and a daughter of Frank
Studebaker. The latter, who came to Nebraska in 1890, was success-
fully engaged in the dray and cement business at Red Cloud, this
state, and also took an active part in the work of the Brethren church.
He is now living on a fruit ranch at Elberta, Utah. ISIr. and INIrs.
Volland have two children, namely: Vernon G., who was born
December 11, 1910; and Norman Hugo, whose natal day was Octo-
ber 8, 1914.
Mr. Volland holds membership in the Congregational cliurch and
224 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
also with the Masonic fraternity, the Ancient Order of United Work-
men, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Woodmen of the
World and the Loyal Mystic Legion of America. His political
indorsement is given to the republican party and he was elected county
coroner by the largest majority given to any candidate for any office
in the history of the county — a fact which indicates his personal popu-
larity and the confidence and regard reposed in him. He is social and
genial, appreciative of good in others, looking at all times upon the
bright side, and his friendliness and worth have gained him the high
position which he occupies in the esteem of his fellow townsmen.
CHARLES E. SMITH.
Charles E. Smith gained financial independence through his
activities as a farmer and is now living in honorable retirement in
Hastings. He was born on the 15th of December, 1850, in Fayette
county, Ohio, of the marriage of Peter W. and Ella (Painter)
Smith, further mention of whom is made in the sketch of Horatio
R. Smith. Our subject attended the public schools when opportunity
offered until he was seventeen years of age and during that time also
assisted his father on the farm. In 1870 the family removed to Jas-
per county, loAva, and he aided in the development of the homestead
there for two years. He then went to Henry county, Iowa, and for
a year worked for his uncle, William Young, but at the end of that
time returned to Jasej^r county and rented land which he operated
for four years. In 1877 he arrived in Adams county, Nebraska, and
purchased the northwest quarter of section 33, Blaine township, on
which he resided until 1901, when he retired to Hastings. He was
both practical and progressive in his methods and his industry and
good management were rewarded by a gratifying financial return.
As the years passed his resources increased and he is now enjoying a
period of well deserved leisure. He owns a good residence at No.
201 West Third street, and is one of the valued citizens of Hastings.
He still holds title to his farm on section 33, Blaine township, and
also owns the southwest quarter of section 28, and the north one-half
of the southeast quarter of section 29, Blaine township, and valuable
residence property in Hastings.
Mr. Smith was married in Henry county, Iowa, in 1874, to JNIary
C. Foster, a daughter of William and Betsy Foster, farming people
of Henry county, both of whom have passed away. JNIr. and INIrs.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 225
Smith have five living children and lost two in infancy. William W.
was born on the 28th of October, 1875, and is now living in Lincoln,
Nebraska. He married Miss Belle Tatroe, a daughter of D. B.
Tatroe, of Omaha. Harlan, whose birth occurred on the 2d of
December, 1877, is engaged in farming in Blaine township. He mar-
ried Miss Ollie Hickman, a daughter of Elwood and JNlalvern Hick-
man, of Hastings, and they have seven children. JNIyrtle, who was
born on the 12th of December, 1884, is the wife of George Cisney, a
carpenter of Hastings. Addie, who was born on the 14th of July,
1887, is the wife of Charles Harris, a son of Frank and JNIattie Harris,
of Hastings, and they have two children. JMr. Harris is a well known
baker of Hastings. Clara, who was born on the 28th of June, 1893,
married Bert Edwards, a baker of Hastings who was formerly a resi-
dent of New York,
j\Ir. Smith has supported the republican party since age con-
ferred upon him the right of franchise, but has never aspired to offi-
cial preferment. However, he served for several years as a member
of the school board in Blaine township and has always taken much
interest in the welfare of the public schools. He holds membership
in the United Brethren church and has conformed his life to high
moral standards. None begrudges him the leisure which he now
enjoys, for it is the direct result of his untiring industry. He had no
unusual advantages in his youth and began his career without capital,
but he believed that it was possible to gain success through hard work
and the exercise of sound judgment and accordingly applied himself
diligently to his farming oi^erations.
A. L. CLARKE.
A. L. Clarke, president of the First National Bank of Hastings,
was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, April 14, 1842, and
sjient his boyhood days at home on the farm. He pursued a public
school education, supplemented by study in an academy at Poland,
Ohio, and in 1863 he went west to Douglas county, Illinois, where he
engaged in tlie drug business at Areola for several years. He then
turned his attention to financial interests, organizing the First Na-
tional Bank of Areola, of which he became the first cashier. Later
he was made its president and so continued until 1877, when he dis-
posed of his interest in that institution and removed to Hastings.
Here, in partnership with G. H. Pratt, one of the pioneer merchants
226 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
of the city, he i^urchased the Adams County Bank from J. S. Mcln-
tyi-e and assumed the management of the institution as its president.
This was converted into the First National Bank on the jth of July.
1881, with JNIr. Clarke as its first president and in that connection he
has since remained.
In his political views Mr. Clarke is a republican and for one term
served as mayor of Hastings but on the expiration of that period
refused to again become a candidate for the office. In 1907 he was
elected a member of the state senate and served for one term. He is
an honorary member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks.
Throughout Nebraska he is considered one of the leading bankers of
the state and when a company of Hastings' leading business men
erected a new hotel they insisted against his wishes on naming it The
Clarke in his honor. He has sought for progress and improvement
in municipal affairs and has supported all worthy public enterprises
AUBREY LAWLER TWIDALE.
The upbuilding of a community does not depend so much upon its
machinery of government or even upon the men A'sho hold its public
offices as it does upon the enterprise and public spirit of its business
men — they who promote its commercial prosperity and contribute to
its substantial advancement. In this connection Aubrey L. Twidale
is well known, being engaged in business at Hastings as a shoe mer-
chant. He was born in Pontiac, INIichigan, on the 1st of January.
1869, his parents being William and Elizabeth (Lawler) Twidale,
the former a native of England and the latter of New York. In the
late '50s the father came to the United States and established his
home in Michigan, where he remained until the outbreak of the Civil
Avar, when his patriotic spirit was aroused by the attempt to over-
throw the Union and he joined Company F of the Ninth ^Michigan
Cavalry, with which he served from 1861 until 1865. He was held for
a time as a jirisoner of Avar at Salisbury. After the Avar he returned
to JMichigan, Avhere he engaged in farming until 1870, Avhen he
removed to Adams county. He secured a homestead claim in High-
land toAvnship Avith a patent Avhich he had previously secured and
which bore the personal signature of U. S. Grant. For a considera-
ble period he carried on general agricultural pursuits but at length
retired from the farm and engaged in merchandising in Juniata,
Nebraska.
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 227
Aubrey L. Twidale was the eldest in a family of three children.
In early life he was brought by his parents to this state and in the
acquirement of his education passed through consecutive grades in
the public schools of Juniata until graduated from the high school.
In 1895 he removed to Hastings and established his shoe store, in
which he carries many attractive lines of fine and medium grade shoes.
He has a well appointed store, is ever courteous and obliging in his
treatment of his patrons and as the years have passed his business has
steadily grown until it has now reached large and gratifying propor-
tions.
Mr. Twidale was joined in wedlock to JNIiss JMargaret Wantz, a
native of Friend, Nebraska, and a daughter of JNIichael and INIinnie
(Schultz) Wantz, the former born in Aurora, Illinois, and the latter
in ^Milwaukee, Wisconsin. IMr. Wantz, an agriculturist by occupa-
tion, came to Nebraska in the early days and took up a homestead
claim near Friend.
Mr. Twidale belongs to the Masonic fraternity and has advanced
through the Scottish Rite to the Consistory, in which he has attained
the thirty-second degree. He is a rejjublican and feels deep concern
for the political situation, doing all in his power to further the growth
and promote the success of his party. His religious belief is that of
the Episcopal church and his cooperation is heartily given to its well
defined plans to promote moral progress. In a word, his life
measures up to high standards and the integrity and reliability which
he manifests in business affairs also features in his other relations of
life.
THE HASTINGS FOUNDRY AND IRON AVORKS.
The Hastings Foundry and Iron Works is one of the extensive
and important productive industries of Adams county. It is a busi-
ness of large proportions and is constantly growing vmder the capa-
ble supervision and direction of J. W. Worrick, who is now general
manager and who took charge of the plant on the 1st of June, 1913.
The company succeeded to the business of Emerick Brothers in 1907.
The stockholders are all residents of Hastings and are most substan-
tial and enterprising business men. The output includes agricultural
machinery, wind mills, grain elevator machinery, also structural steel
and general contract work, bridges, aqueducts, etc. The company
manufactures for the Western Electric Company. The plant covers
228 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
two entire blocks and is composed, of many buildings. There is a
large building used for office and shipping rooms, a forge shop,
a machine shop, a woodworking shop, a foundry, a steel shop and a
storage building. These are well ventilated and well lighted and
moreover they are equipped with the latest improved machinery to
facilitate the work. They employ fifty men and their output is sold
over many states. The business of the company increased thirty per
cent in the year 1915 and the plant is utilized to its fullest caj)acity.
The comi^anj' never deviates from its high standard in the matter of
the excellence of the output, never using inferior material in manu-
facture, and in all business dealings is thoroughly reliable as well as
progressive. Their different products meet the demand for which
they are made, reaching the highest point of efficiency, while some of
their work, such as the electroliers, shows marked artistic beautj^ and
finish as well.
WALTER LIVINGSTON.
Walter Livingston is a partner in the undertaking business con-
ducted under the name of The Livingstons at Hastings. He was
born in Jersey county, Illinois, on the 31st day of March, 1876, and
is a son of Albert Livingston, who was the founder and is the senior
partner in the business which is still carried on by the father and his
two sons. Walter Livingston acquired a public school education and
is a graduate of the high school of Harvard. He afterward took ujj
the profession of teaching, which he followed for three years at
Edgar, Clay county. Later he pursued a course in embalming and
joined his father and brother in the conduct of the business in which
he has since been active. They have the best appointed undertak-
ing establishment in the state, carrying a large line of caskets and
funeral goods, having also four auto hearses and two horse hearses.
In connection thej' maintain a well ajipointed chajJcl in which services
may be held, and no one is better able to handle funerals than this
firm.
In 1900 INIr. Livingston was united in marriage to Miss Christina
Firestein, a daughter of Henrj^ Firestein, of Grand Island. In his
political views Walter Livingston is a republican and is now serving
for the second term as a member of the city council, in which he is on
several important committees. He does good work for the public
welfare along the lines of substantial jirogress and improvement and
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 229
his cooperation can always be counted upon to further any plan or
measure for the benefit and upbuilding of Hastings. Fraternally he
is connected with the IMasons, the Ancient Order of United Work-
men and the Modern Woodmen and his religious belief is indicated in
his membershij) in the Christian church. The Livingston family is
one well known in Hastings and throughout this jjart of the state,
and warm regard is entertained for them not only because of activity'
and success in business but also because of sterling worth manifested
in other relations of life.
JOHN C. SWARTZ.
John C. Swartz, agent at Hastings for the Chicago, Burlington &
Quiney Railroad Company, has practically devoted his entire life to
railroad service and in this connection has made steady progress by
reason of his ability and fidelity. He was born in Greenville, Ohio,
on the 19th of December, 1854, and is a son of Jacob and Barbara
(Kahle) Swartz, both of whom are now deceased. In the family
were seven children, five sons and two daughters, of whom John C.
was the first in order of birth. Having pursued his education in the
public schools, he then entered the railroad service as an operator,
working along that line for two j^ears, after which he left Ohio and
came to the west, settling in Plattsmouth, Nebraska, on the 11th of
October, 1878. A month later, however, he was transferred to Hast-
ings, where he remained for six months. He was then promoted to
the j)osition of frontier agent, in which connection he continued for
several years, after which he returned to Hastings, where he spent the
■winter of 1881-2. In May of the latter year he was sent to Denver,
Colorado, to become the first agent of the Burlington Railroad at
that place and remained in that city until 1891, when he left the
employ of the company to enter into business relations Avith the Colo-
rado Fuel Company. Drought brouglit on hard times and he severed
his connection with the Colorado Fuel Company, after which he
returned to the Burlington Railroad as local agent at Denver, con-
tinuing there for eight j'ears. He was afterward made general agent
and occupied that position until the 17th of November, 1901, .when he
returned to Hastings, Avhere he has since been located. He has proven
a most capable representative of the road, is always courteous and
obliging to its patrons and at the same time carefullj^ safegiiards the
230 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
interests of the corporation which he represents. During this period
he has witnessed the development and upbuilding of the city, which
at the time of his arrival contained no brick residences. There were
only board walks and the water supply was furnished with windmills.
He was the night oj)erator who got into communication with the gov-
ernment, leading to the sending of the militia here. As the years have
gone he has witnessed marked changes and rejoices in what has been
accomplished, converting Hastings from a western frontier town into
a city of attractive proportions and opportunities.
On the 30th of September, 1890, JNlr. Swartz was joined in wed-
lock to JNIiss Mary E. Leight. He is a Protestant in religious faith
and his wife belongs to the Christian Science church. In his political
views IMr. Swartz is a republican and fraternally is connected with
the Elks and the Commercial Club. He is one of the town's noted
pedestrians, fond of walking for exercise. In his busy life, however,
there have been few idle hours, his entire time and attention being
concentrated upon his duties, which have been capably and efficiently
discharged, making him one of the most trusted representatives of the
corporation with which he is connected, while among his fellow towns-
men he is regarded as a most popular citizen.
BOWNE S. KOEHLER.
Bowne S. Koehler is an active business man, devoting his entire
attention to his duties as secretary and treasvirer of the Koehler Twi-
dale Elevator Company of Hastings. He finds in the faithful per-
formance of each day's duties courage and inspiration for the labors
of the succeeding day and along the steps of an orderly progression
he is working his way upward. He was born at Blue Hill, Nebraska,
INIay 19, 1887, a son of Christian and Helen (Sweetland) Koehler.
The father was born in Geneva, Illinois, and is now living at Hastings
at the age of fifty-nine years. He has devoted his life to the grain
trade and to farming and he dates his residence in Nebraska from
1878, at which time he took up his abode at Ayr, Adams covuity. He
found here pioneer conditions and with the work of general improve-
ment and development has since been associated. He carried on
farming for a time but for many years has been actively engaged in
the grain business and is now the vice president of the Koehler Twi-
dale Elevator Company, oiJerating a line of fifteen elevators, one of
which is situated at Roseland in this county. His growing business
PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY 231
aiFairs have made him a prosperous man and his activities have been
of a nature that have contributed to public progress and prosperity
as well as to individual success. In the earlj' '80s he removed to Blue
Hill, Nebraska, and took an active part in public as well as business
affairs there. In 1900 he came to Hastings, where he now has a fine
residence. He sjiends much of his time in looking after his JNIontana
holdings, for he has made extensive investments in that state.
After completing a course of study in the high school at Blue Hill,
Bowne S. Koehler continued his education in the Nebraska State Uni-
versity and later made his initial step in the business world in connec-
tion with banking, securing the position of cashier in the First
National Bank at Elwood, Nebraska, where he served as a director
and stockholder. In 1909 he came to Hastings and entered into active
relations with the Koehler Twidale Elevator Company as secretary
and treasiu'er. His undivided attention is now devoted to this business
and his enterprise and jirogressive spirit constitute a potent element
in the growth of the undertaking. In this connection he occupies a
leading position as a representative of the grain trade in the state and
he has thoroughly familiarized himself with every branch of the busi-
ness and is thus able to successfully direct the activities of the com-
pany which he represents.
]Mr. Koehler was joined in wedlock to ]Miss jNIary Pierce, a native
of Friend, Nebraska, and a daughter of George Pierce, who became
an early settler of Friend, where he embarked in merchandising and
has since been prominent and active in the affairs of the town. Our
subject and his wife have one child, JNIary Helen.
JNIr. Koehler is a worthy exemplar of the IVIasonic fraternity and
an active member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He
is a young man of marked enterprise and laudable ambition. He
never fears to venture where favoring opportunity leads the way and
he is fortunate in joossessing character and ability that inspire confi-
dence in others.
THOiAIAS R. VARAH.
Thomas R. Varah, who is successfully engaged in the real estate
business in Hastings, is still a large landowner and for a quarter of a
century farmed a thousand acres, his ability to manage his extensive
interests being j^roof of his energy, his foresight and his power to
think in large terms. He was born in Oswego county. New York, in
232 PAST AND PRESENT OF ADAMS COUNTY
1857, of the marriage of James and Alice S. Varah, the former a
native of Staffordshire, England, and the latter of London. They
came to America in 18,56 and settled in New York, where the father
engaged in truck farming for fifty years, or until 1906, when he
retired. He passed away in 1914 at an advanced age. He is sur-
vived by his widow, who lives in Central Square, ^e\v York.
Thomas R. Varah divided his time between working for his father
and attending school until he was eleven years of age a
