1915
2
Mrs. Clementine Alsey
Libe Alsey
Charles O. Baltzell
Mrs. J. C. Bell
Mrs. Philo Bell
George H. Benham
Mrs. William E. Berninger
Mrs. M. Brooks
George and Edna Burnside
Robert Guy Buzzard
J. C. Caldwell
D. F. Cooper
G. W. Cooper
Thomas E. Corrie
Kent Cunningham
Mrs. Leati Jennings Donnelly
G. R. Dunphy
Jenny Foster
C. French
Emily B. French
Warren K. Gibney
Mrs. James Goff
D. T. Gordon
Ida (Kimmell) Haynes
C.W. Higganbotham
Della Perkins Hollingsworth
Mrs. S. E. Eckenrode
George I. Hughes
Annie Hardacre Irish
Mrs. Addie Wright Ivie
McMerrell B. Judy
W. G. Kilgore
Mrs. Laura Kinkade
William, Nora
and George Edward Lathrop
L. W. Lent
Mrs. Molly Hoopes Mallison
Clement E. Malone
J. A. Marley
George W. Martin
H. G. McKelfresh
Frank McNeely
C. S. Milburn
Joseph A. Miller
Clarence A. Newman
Aaron C. Pepple
Samuel W. Perrott
Mrs. Isabel Petersen
T. E. Piper
Mrs. Amy Weaver Richey
W. H. Rosborough
W. S. Sanford
J. L. Sheraden
Ralph O. Shick
Virgil J. Simms
Isaac Slichenmeyer
Glenn P. Smalley
Jesse F. Smalley
A. E. Stout
Marion Strouse
French Sumner
James A. Thompson
Charles Vandament
D. B. Van Scyoc
Mary Smalley Webb
C. A. Webber
Mahala Wurtsbaugh
Mrs. Ida M. Yetman
3
Paragould, Arkansas
January 16, 1915
Dear Editor Press:
I write a few lines for the "non-resident issue,” of the Press. It has been a little
better than 10 years since we left our old home in Lawrence County, and came to
Arkansas, locating among good people of Paragould.
My former home was 1 1/2 miles northeast of Sumner, where my father, Amos
Grogan, now lives. My husband lived 2 1/2 miles northwest of Sumner on the Alsey
home place.
Our children Wilma and Amos, have learned to enjoy the visits, back to "Old
Lawrence".
We enjoy reading the old home paper and are always glad to hear from old
friends in Lawrence. We also think the reunion will be like a homecoming. I anxiously
await the issue, as it is published on my birthday, February 11. Thanking the editor for
this favor. I am yours sincerely.
Mrs. Clementine Alsey
--------Paragould, Arkansas
January 18, 1915
Editor Press:
It affords me great pleasure to write to the non-resident issue of the Press. I was
born March 24, 1883 in Lawrence County, Christy Township, 2 1/2 miles southwest of
Sumner. I resided in Lawrence County until 1904, when I came to Paragould, Arkansas
and began working for a Valve and Heading Manufacturing Company for $40 per
month and I am with the same company, and now receive a salary of $75 per month.
I was married on June 6, 1906 to Miss Myrtle Lytle of the city.
Our home has been blessed with two sons. The oldest Joe Lytle Alsey, was
born May 29, 1910, died October 5, 1911 Howard Milton Alsey was born February 5,
1912.
Paragould has a population of 8000, and is indeed a city of churches and
schools. There are twelve churches, four Baptists, three Methodist, two Christian, one
Presbyterian, one Holiness and one Catholic. We are members of the East Side
Methodist Church. There are six schools, four public schools, one high school and one
Business College.
This is a land of opportunity, and we quite often see residents of Lawrence
County in this vicinity. There are several non-residents of Lawrence County in this city,
but will leave them to write for them selves.
I will close wishing the “Pink Issue" a great success.
Yours truly,
Libe Alsey
--------Princeton, Indiana
January 11, 1915
The Sumner Press:
The opportunity of addressing a communication to you, to be published along
with other communications from persons formally residing in Lawrence County, that
are now non-residents, I accepted with pleasure.
4
(Clementine Alsey)
Biographical Note:
Clementine Alsey nee Grogan was
born in 1876 and married
Ellsworth Alsey of Lawrence Co
about 1904. At the time of this
letter, her daughter, Wilma was
about 9 years old and her son
Amos was about 7.
--------(Libe Bern Alsey)
Biographical Note:
Libe Bern Alsey was the son of
William and Joanna Alsey. The
father, William, born in Hanover,
Germany, came to America with
his parents and two sisters when
he was 5 years old (1849). At an
early life he became an orphan
and lived with an aunt in St.
Charles, Missouri until he was 17
yrs of age. Thence he moved to
Cincinnati and was married to
Joanna Hicks in 1863. He then
moved to Lawrence County where
he farmed for the remainder of his
life dying in 1908. He and Joanna
had ten children, 5 girls and 5
boys. Libe was 32 years old when
this letter was written and was the
brother-in-law of Clementine
Alsey. His wife Myrtle died Sept
26, 1918 and he married Ida May
Cox in 1919. It appears that both
Libe and his brother, Ellsworth left
Lawrence County before their
father died
--------(Charles O. Baltzell)
Biographical Note:
Charles Otis Baltzell, born March
1873, was the son of a Civil War
veteran, Henry H. and his wife,
Margaret C. Rodrick Baltzell. His
father held several town offices
upon his return from the war.
Charles married Maud Bennyhuff
in 1898 and the son he refers to in
this letter is Ernest R. Baltzell born
1899. Before moving to Princeton
,Indiana, Charles taught school at
Pinhook School, a one room
school located in Bridgeport
Township.
(Continued)
(continued)
Later in 1900, his brother Robert
also taught there. Robert later
went on to practice law in Indiana
also, and was appointed a federal
judge by President Coolidge
serving 25 years on the bench.
Editor’s Note:
On January 21, 1916 Charles
wrote another letter:” I have been
located at Princeton, Indiana,
following the practice of the law
for practically 18 years. During
that time have had some varied
experiences in a business and
political way and otherwise. We
have a son, our only child, now 16
years of age, who is a freshman in
our State University. Aside from
my work in my profession, I am
president of the Citizens Trust and
Savings Bank, which gives me
broader opportunities in a
business way.”
--------(Olive Bell)
Biographical Note:
Olive Bell (nee Bass) was the
daughter of Henry V. and Louisa
Pamplin Bass of Lukin Township,
Lawrence Co, Il. She married Julius
(or Johan C.) Bell on March 25,
1896 in Clayton, St Louis Co, MO.
She was about 42 years old when
she wrote this letter, and the
children she refers to are Arthur,
Leslie and Olivia. Her husband
was a stationary engineer in an ice
plant.
Annotation:
A stationary engineer was a man
who operated or assisted in the
operation of steam power plants,
as well as refrigerating and
ventilating systems and had to be
familiar with all mechanical
devices found in such facilities. As
such
this
occupation
was
considered to be one of
importance, and a good job to
have, although the hours were
usually 10 hours a day.
Having maintained my home in Petty Township from the time of my birth until
after attaining my majority, I have always and do think and speak of it as my home.
Since finishing my school work, in 1898, I have resided in this place, my wife, a son, 15
years of age, and myself constitute our family aside from my father. H. H. Baltzell who
makes his home, a part of the time, with us. My mind oft times goes back to my school
days, spent at the Leach school and later the public schools of Sumner and the four
years I spent teaching in public schools of Lawrence County.
I shall ever have fond memories of my boyhood days, spent in Petty Township,
and of the people, there are no better.
Most respectfully,
Charles O. Baltzell
--------East St. Louis, Illinois
January 14, 1915
Dear Sirs:
My former home being in Lawrence I thought I would write something of my
life since I left there.
I was born in Lukin Township in the vicinity of Prairie schoolhouse. I lived
there for 17 years and came to St. Louis, where I worked for several different families in
the capacity of house girl. I followed this six years, then was married. I have had fairly
good luck so far. My husband is a stationary engineer here in the city. I have two boys
and one daughter. The two boys are in their third year of high school and the girl is in
her eighth grade and will graduate in June.
My former name was Olive Bass but is now Mrs. J. C. Bell. I was the daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. H. V. Bass.
I and glad if I can help you along by contributing this small article.
I remain yours very truly,
Mrs. J. C. Bell
526 north 13th Street
-
---------
5
January 14, 1915
Editor Press:
As you want the non-resident subscribers to write a sketch of their lives, I will
try from memory, as I have no dates.
I was born on a farm six miles south of Sumner in 1830 where there are no
schools, no town, and no churches. My maiden name was Spencer, my father's name
was Thomas Spencer, and my mother's was Lanterman.
When I was five years old we moved a mile west of Sumner no town then.
Lived there until 1887, and then moved to Sumner. Lived there until 1904, when Mr.
Bell died and I went to Salem to live with a daughter, Mrs. Draper. Lived there three
years and she died, and then I went to Sedalia, Missouri, to live with my youngest
daughter, Mrs. Dr. Staats, where I'm living now.
I'm a member of the Christian Church in Sumner, the only charter member
living. I am 84 years and 1 month old. Have many friends in and around Sumner. Wish
all of them a happy and prosperous year.
Mrs. Philo Bell
--------Fletcher,
Ulcaml County, Ohio
January 17, 1915
Editor Press:
While we have never been residents of Lawrence County, we had the pleasure
of spending several days last summer with relatives and friends in Sumner and vicinity.
We have been receiving the Press for some time past, through the courtesy of
our nephew, Oliver Baltzell, who we wish to thank very kindly for the favor.
We enjoy very much the columns of the Press, as we always appreciate the
news of the former buckeyes that are now located in Lawrence County.
Very truly,
Mr. and Mrs. George H. Benham
-------------
6
(Mary Emmaline Spencer Bell)
Biographical Note:
Mary Emmaline Spencer Bell was
born Sept 1830 and listed her
occupation prior to her husband’s
death in 1904 as milliner. They
had had three children Carrie ,
Hattie and Effie M. but only two of
them were alive by 1900. By 1910
she was living with Effie, who had
married Dr. Ethan Staats. Mrs
Philo Bell died July 30, 1925 and
buried in the Sumner Cemetery.
Editor’s Notes:
Mrs. Philo Bell wrote another
letter for the 1916 Edition of the
Pink Letters. In it she repeats that
she is living with her youngest
daughter, Mrs. Dr. Staats, and is
in “ reasonable health for one of
my age, have practically lost the
use of my right arm, can't write or
do much else” and doesn’t enjoy
the cold weather very well. She
goes to Sunday school and Church
most every Sunday, as it is just
across the street. She also adds
some biographic information
about Philo Bell. ‘He was born
near Sumner in 1830. She wrote
another letter on January 16, 1917
from Sedalia Missouri, enclosing a
money order for another year’s
subscription to the Press and
stated that her eyes were so poor
she could hardly read, and she
was too shaky to write anything
for the Press that year. However,
January 20, 1919 she writes again:
“From your oldest non-resident, I
am 88 years and 5 months old;
only missed 3 Sundays this year at
church and Sunday school. Have
12 grandchildren and 9 great
children and 1 great greatgrandchild. How is that for an
Illinois mother?
Also am a
member of the Red Cross. Have
been away from Lawrence county
17 years.”
--------(George H. Benham)
Annotation:
The term “former buckeyes”
refers to residents of Ohio
(Mrs. William E. Berninger)
Biographical Note:
Ursula E. Morgan was born in April
1874 and would have moved to
Lawrence County about 1882. She
was born to Leroy Hamer and
Rachel Morgan. She was united in
marriage on April 29, 1900 to
William Edward Berninger, son of
Isaac and Sarah Ann (nee Higgins)
Berninger. The census records
show one son, Lucius (b. abt.
1903). Ursula died in Indianapolis
in 1920 and is buried in the
Sumner cemetery.
William
remarried and Wiliam died
January 14, 1939.
Annotation:
A Dray is a type of a horse- drawn
wagon used to haul goods.
Editors Note:
Ursula E. Morgan Berninger wrote
another letter on January 7, 1917
from the same address. She stated
that she “still had a warm spot in
her heart for old Lawrence county.
We moved to Indianapolis in 1906.
My boy was just four years old,
and now he is 14 and past. He will
graduate in common school in
three weeks. Since coming here I
have learned to love old Indiana.
My man can say what a lot of men
can't. He has worked for the
Pennsylvania Railroad ever since
we lived here. It is 11 years the
14th day of February. Since living
in Indianapolis the Lord has
blessed us by sending us a little
daughter,
which
brought
happiness into our family.” One
year later she wrote another short
letter in which she says that as
long as her father, mother,
brother and sister-in law still live
in Lawrence county she will use
her (RR) card pass and visit there.
---------
Indianapolis, Indiana
January 13, 1915
Dear Editor:
We first moved from Parkersburg to Lawrence County when I was but eight years of
age, I lived in the County from the time I moved there until I was almost 17. We then
moved to Sumner, where I lived until I was 26. When I became 26, I was married to W.
E. Berninger of Lancaster. We then moved to Lancaster and lived there three months.
We then came to think Lawrence County the best, after all and again moved to Sumner.
My husband then bought a dray, and drayed a while, but he became dissatisfied and sold
the dray. He then went north six months and worked, came back to Lawrence County
and secured a position on the B. & O. Railroad with Mr. Orr. He worked a while at this
and finally came to Indianapolis and found work with the Pennsylvania road, where he
has been working for the past nine years. It as though railroad work is more abundant
than any other.
My maiden name was Miss Ursula E. Morgan daughter of L. H. Morgan
Yours truly,
Mrs. William E. Berninger
427 North Dearborn Street
------------Equality
Gallatin County, Illinois
January 26, 1915
Mr. Editor:
We consider it a great pleasure and count it a great privilege to read the Press,
for it is through the courtesy of some kind friend that we enjoy this great paper, for it
certainly has grown to be interesting.
Our stay in Sumner though brief was a very pleasant one. No place on earth
can't afford better people. The Rev. Brooks having charge of the Presbyterian Church
there and one night in walking the floor (as sometimes preachers do) of the little
Presbyterian manse a vision appeared to him and he heard a voice from Equality say,
come over and help us, and we came in the vision was a great multitude of unsaved
people, and since our coming 160 of this multitude have confessed Christ as their
Savior. Now someone may ask, did it pay for you to leave Sumner? Yes I say 1000
times yes. When we remember the value that master put on them, he says one soul is
worth the whole world. And speaking of the Presbyterians did you ever go up to their
little church to worship?
7
If you haven’t you have certainly missed a treat and if you have, you will go again,
were you meet so many fine people such as G. W. McNece and wife, H A. Piper and
wife, Ferd Foss and wife, John Culbertson and wife, G. R. Stout and wife, Mr. Klingler
and wife, and the Thompson brothers and dear Miss Ora, but always gave as such good
cheer on our way, and H. M. Wagner and Miss Stella, John McVicker and family, Mr.
Legg and wife, Shelby Piper and little wife and brother Hull and good wife, Mr. and
Mrs. Pickering and those dear elderly ladies, Mesdames Catherine Piper, McClure and
Grow, how they did cheer and encourage us by their warm hand clasp and last, but not
least, the great Sabbath school man, Dr. Dale, and many others too numerous to
mention.
We are all real well, both children, Mary and Watson, are in school have fine
school year. Now about the Press, I feel the extra edition all decked out as you plan will
be exceedingly fine and interesting
Success and best wishes to all and may this year be the greatest year in all the
history of the dear old Press, because of his presence with you.
Cordially,
Mrs. M. Brooks
------------Vincennes, Indiana
January 25, 1915
Editor Press:
In complying to your request for a short letter from all who once lived in
Sumner, will say, I believe there is something inspiring about your little city, for since
leaving there I have been asked many times, where are you from and it always makes
me feel proud to answer, from Sumner, Illinois. I just can't help it.
Well, we broke camp at Sumner on June 29, 1906, and located at St.
Francisville, there we entered the grocery business and during our first year was hard to
get by, but we pulled through and were doing a nice business but we sold out and
moved to Vincennes, where we thought the children would have a better chance. We
also bought a store and are doing a good business here.
Now about my family. It was for Edna and the babies, don't you know. I am
glad to report that we still have the same number that we left Sumner with, namely:
Edna Pearl, Mary Jeanette, George Hubert, Daniel Leslie and Miss Helen, and, by the
way, they are some boosters for Sumner, Illinois, too.
Well, I will not take up any more space this time, except to say that I am proud
I was raised in Sumner and have some very good friends there and extend an invitation
to all when in Vincennes to call at our home. Just take a car at union station and tell the
conducted to put you off at first and Swartzel.
Respectfully,
George and Edna Burnside
------------Chicago, Illinois
5600 Drexel Avenue
January 16, 1915
Editor Press:
Saturday morning is red letter day in our weekly calendar. Why? That is the
mail on which the Press arrives. We are sure that no "Sons of Old Lawrence" can give it
a more hearty welcome then that it receives here. Letters can keep one tied to the old
home, but it takes a hometown paper to keep in touch with all. Certainly the Press is a
wonder at doing this.
8
(George Burnside)
Biographical Note:
George B Burnside married Edna
Jackson Dec 25, 1892. He was the
son of Samuel and Mary Burnside,
farmers in Christy Township. At
the time of the 1915 letter, the
children’s ages were: Pearl, 20,
Mary 18, George 14, Daniel 11,
and Miss Helen 9.
Editor’s Note: George B Burnside
wrote another letter in 1916 from
the same address: This finds us
still on the job at our store in
Vincennes.
Things have been
running along much the same…Of
course, business has been a little
puny, but I am under the
impression it will be much better
before the end of the year 1916.
..Our happy family of five little
Burnside’s is still unbroken.”
--------(Guy Buzzard)
Biographical Note:
Guy Buzzard was the son of Peter
and Anna (Piper) Buzzard of
Christy
township,
Lawrence
County, Il. In 1910 he was still
living with his parents and
teaching in the county, but after
graduating in 1914 from Normal
State University at Normal Ill, he
continued his education at
University at Chicago. There he
became President of the ISNU
Alumni club whose purpose was to
further the social life of the alumni
among other things. He also
became a member of Sigma XI (a
fraternal
organization
for
research in science) His doctorate
dissertation dealt with the
geography of Cape Cod.
He
married Irene Couchman from
Sumner on Sept 12, 1920 and they
had 4 sons. In 1933 he became
President of Eastern Illinois
University retiring from that post
in 1956.
Annotation:
A “normal school” is a school
created to train high school
graduates to be teachers. Its
purpose is to establish teaching
standards or norms, hence its
name.
Biographical Note:
Editor Note:
Robert Guy Buzzard wrote a Letter
to the Press from Waco Texas in
March 1918:
Dear Mr. Wood:
Will you kindly change the address
of my copy of the Sumner Press
from 555 U.S.A.A.S., Allentown
Pennsylvania, to 51st Aero
Squadron, Aviation Corps, Waco,
Texas.
On March 11 I was transferred
from the ambulance service to the
meteorological section Signal
Corps and sent to Texas. My work
will be as weather observer for
the Flyers, hence my station is an
aviation camp.
I found summer weather in Texas
quite a change from that of the
Pennsylvania mountains, but the
camp is quite and agreeable place
and the new work very
interesting.
Thanking you in advance for the
change of address, I am,
Very truly yours,
Robert G. Buzzard
---------
Now, "Get Together" is a slogan of the age. So do Sumner folks when far
away, and what is what we have done. In answer to your kind invitation, "Modesty"
forbids us to tell about ourselves-we shall tell about each other. Now if the ladies will
kindly remove their hats.
Harry Lathrop, whose father, Mr. G. S. Lathrop, lives just east of Sumner,
owes in my mind a great deal to Old Lawrence his success since he left her boundaries
is conclusive proof. It was on the banks of Muddy, which flowed near the old home just
north of the famed Captain Lewis farm, that he taught him the first lesson of his chosen
profession-teaching. I suppose instructing the fish the danger of biting on the Sabbath,
so it must have been, for the records of Lawrence County’s Rural Schools credit Harry
with four years successful teaching. Teaching led to work in a normal school, and Harry
found himself a student in the Illinois state Normal University at Normal, Illinois. After
graduation in June, 1912, he was offered the principalship of the high school at Paxton,
Illinois, for the next school year, and accepted. The call to his Alma Mater however,
was so strong that after one year at the Paxton High he returned to normal to finish his
undergraduate work-and other studies. With the class of 14 he received the degree of
Bachelor of Education. Not only did he leave the old Normal with an enviable record as
a student, but, with honors in other lines as well. Among the debating circles of the
normal schools of Wisconsin, Indiana, and our own Illinois, he has a reputation as a
winning debater. In literacy society work he was a leader, but his greatest achievement
has been beyond a doubt the "attachments" that he formed in Normal.
At present he is doing graduate work in the Department of Geography and
economics in the University of Chicago, working for the degree of Master of science.
"An authority in geographic circles on the Illinois oilfield." With, how could he help it?We leave him.
One minute for change of reels.
Robert Guy Buzzard, commonly known as plain "Guy," Finney Sumner high
school in 1909. Having heard the call of the pedagog he spent three years uplifting the
country boys and girls of his home county but having seen the proverbial loader with
lots of room up higher he determined to occupy some of the hitherio unoccupied space.
Therefore he landed at normal, Illinois, if a heart full of aspirations and a head at least
partially full of brains.
I, say at least partially full because there has been so much expansion since that
time, room must be allowed for growth. The brains got to work and in 1913, Robert Guy
received his diploma from the University High School, but the vacancy will was still not
filled and pursuit was immediately instituted after the elusive Normal School Diploma.
In 1914 the diligent work was rewarded. The Illinois state normal University issued a
diploma of which
was written dignified
black letters, "Robert
Guy Buzzard" his
record at normal was
commendable.
Prominent
in
literature, dramatic
and
journalistic
circles, his activities,
culminated in the
yearbook of 1914, of
which he was editor.
9
The habitat of this particular kind of bird is limited to southerly climes but the
city by the waters needed a specimen. Hence guy was employed to teach in the Harvard
School for boys on Drexel Boulevard, Chicago. However, at the same time he is doing
work in the University of Chicago and will receive the degree of S. B. With the class of
16. But the story is not complete without the following chapter. O O ………………
Biographical Note:
The preceding line when properly translated gives the full story of guys
matrimonial endeavors for the benefit of his friends in old Lawrence.
Thus in death the tale of "Two Non-residents”.
And now, dear Editor, may we again express our appreciation of your news the
paper, and the part of the press is doing to "boost" Sumner and old Lawrence.
Very truly yours,
Robert Guy Buzzard
Harry Lathrop
------------Clapham, New Mexico
January 25, 1915
Editor Press:
We think our “Old Times Issue" a capital idea and hope to see many interesting
letters from our old friends and acquaintances.
After almost 4 years residence in Sumner, we left there in May 1911, came to
Union County, New Mexico, and move that wants to our claim, or Homestead, a 320
acres. One which we made final proof and received our patent timber 1914.
Homesteading is no joke. It's real life. And we are better off physically for
having gone through with it. The children are healthy and robust and have profited by
their experiences in the great new western country.
Carroll, our oldest boy is attending business college in Denver, Colorado,
Leah, our oldest daughter, is in school in Clayton, New Mexico, Robert and Hazel go to
our country school, while J. C. and Anna and little Carrie run the ranch, look after the
cows, pigs and poultry, and enjoy western life on the Prairie.
Those of you who are reading "The Prairie Wife" in the Saturday evening Post,
will get a glimpse of actual western life, or homemaking, away out on the Prairie among
the coyotes, Jack rabbits, range cattle, etc.
Duty call us and we came, and are glad we did. We expect to stay in the grand
new state,"New Mexico." The boys have killed eagle, wildcat, coyote, learn to ride
pitching broncos, and talk spanish.
We raised an enormous feed crop also corn and maize.
This section of the country, 15 years ago was considered as only a grazing
country, has developed into a garden spot, and all without irrigation.
With kind regards to Sumner friends.
J. C. Caldwell and family
-------------
10
--------(James Chalmers Caldwell)
Biographical Note:
James Chalmers Caldwell was the
son of David A. and Elizabeth A.
Mount Caldwell and nephew of
Indiana Governor Mount. He was
born in Cumberland County, IL
April 9, 1869, and opened a
clothing store in Neoga IL in 1899.
Selling his business there, he spent
a year in the West, but in the fall
of 1900 returned to Neoga, and
established another store. In 1907
he went into partnership with his
brother
Frank
R.
Caldwell
establishing a clothing business in
Sumner. The brothers then
opened a branch in Odin, Marion
Co, IL. On March 13, 1895 James
married Anna R. Kimery, daughter
of A. W. Kimery, a veteran of the
Civil War. James and Mary had
four children when they lived in
Sumner, Carroll, Leah, Robert and
Hazel.
---------
(D F Cooper)
David F. Cooper
Biographical Note:
David Frazee was the son of James
and Lucinda Allen Cooper. At the
age of 12 years he moved with his
parents to Indiana where they
located 2 miles west of Hillsboro.
He lived there until the outbreak
of the Civil War when he and four
brothers, John, Marion, Carey and
Henry enlisted in the Union army,
in August 1861. David served for
three years and six months, or
until the end of the war as a
member of Co. H, 2nd New York
Calvary, known as the "Harris Light
Cavalry." He entered as a private
and was a corporal upon release.
Shortly after his marriage to Mary
Ellis in 1869, he and his bride
established a home on a farm in
Lawrence County, Illinois where
they spent about 40 years, or until
their children were all married.
D.F. Cooper was a charter
member of the Free Methodist
church at New Hope and played a
prominent
part
in
its
establishment. In 1908, "Uncle
Dave" and "Aunt Mary," as they
were affectionately called, moved
to the scene of their earlier life in
Indiana near Waynetown where
they spent their declining
years.The tragic death of his wife
in 1923 was a blow, the effects
from which he never recovered.
He could never speak of it
afterward without deep emotion.
He departed this life November 2,
1928 aged 97 years, 5 months and
6 days at Hillsboro, Indiana.
Editor’s Note:
David Frazee
Cooper’s wife wrote a letter to the
Press in 1919.
Annotation:
Egypt was a name sometimes
given to southern Illinois.
---------
Waynetown, Indiana
January 7, 1915
To the Press and good people of Lawrence County, (Lukin Township not excepted)
Greetings:
I will pin a few thoughts concerning my past history, not to have my voice
heard on the streets: but that I might encourage some tempest-tossed traveler on life's
tempestuous sea to the celestial city.
I was born in Delaware County, Ohio, May 27, 1841. Moved to Fountain
County, Indiana in 1854. Joined the Army August 3, 1861, served in the Army of the
Potomac, second New York Calvary, Company H. At the end of 37 months, I got an
honorable discharge and returned home. Took up the occupation of a farmer which I
followed for four years in Fountain and Warren counties. At the end of that time, I had
three plugs of horses and about $700.
On hearing of the wonderful crops of corn that were raised down in Egypt, I
determined to marry me a wife and go down to take possession of some of it’s fertile
soil, so on the 25th day of February 1869, I married a young woman one year my junior
by the name of Mary R. Ellis and about the 26th of April, 1869, we loaded up our little
effects and started for our new home, which I had already purchased on Lukin Prairie,
Lukin township, Lawrence County Illinois, seven miles southeast of Sumner. The place
consisted of 40 acres. Six years later I purchased 80 acres out on the public highway
leading south east from Sumner to Mt. Carmel where I lived 40 years.
At the end of that time I sold part of my possessions and bought 30 acres 3 1/2
miles south of Waynetown and eight miles west of Crawfordsville, Montgomery
County, Indiana, where we lived six years.
I have made two flying trips down to the old homestead, partly on business.
This fall we concluded we would both go back, wife and I, and have a good visit. We
made our arrangements and started the 27th of October and landed at Jno. Bell’s in St.
Francisville that night at eight o'clock. The next day I met my old friend and neighbor,
W. H. Hazelton in town, who autoed us out to my son-in-law's, J. A. Price’s. Saturday
we drove to Bridgeport, to visit our son and wife, A.P. and Jas. F. Cooper and families.
Being Halloween Eve, you may know that pandemonium had full sway in
town, and while I was just across the alley, helping Harley Schrader with a sick horse,
some of the kids cabbaged my buggy and ran it down in the business part of town, and I
suppose fired it around about half the night, and then drew it up as near Clay Seed’s
north kitchen door as possible, where Jim Cooper found it Sunday morning about eight
o'clock. I will say that we were very thankful that we got off as well as we did. We had
to hustle up a little, to make up for lost time, and by making a forced drive, we arrived at
Olive Branch just as the young minister began his sermon, and I will say there was more
heart spirit in the sermon that I have listened to in six years here in Wayne Township.
Another commendable feature was that they haven't got the spiritual lumbage so bad but
they can kneel down before the Almighty. Romans 14:11 Philippians 2:9-11. We were
invited around the altar and after prayer and a word of exhortation, we sang a hymn, and
a shake of hands and were dismissed.
We were entertained at dinner by C. E. Corrie and wife. The Lord bless them in
their afflictions. We then drove to J. A. Price’s and at night hitched to the spring wagon
and drove to the Bethlehem church, to a prayer and social meeting, which was well
attended, and it seemed that all enjoyed it. I'm sure I enjoyed the meeting wonderfully. It
was led by G. W. Prout. I noticed they are not removing the old landmarks
11
which our fathers have set, but are willing to bow the knee to the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ Proverbs 7:19.
Biographical Note:
On Friday we drove to Sumner where I had not been for six years. and met
several of my old friends among whom was the editor and ex editor of the Press.
Barnes brothers, Jno. Westall, J.A. Barekman, , Jones brothers, Dr Dale, B. F. Lent,
H.Yelch, Jas. Hull, Isaac Wright, Clay Smith, Wm Brian, E Hill, and I cannot tell how
many more.
On Monday we went to a funeral at the O'Donnell cemetery and Tuesday a
funeral at Bethel in the morning and from there to St. Francisville, where we attended
prayer meeting at the F. M. Church, so you may know that we met a goodly number of
our Egyptian friends, and I will add that it was a heart visit from start to finish. We
started home Wednesday morning via Vincennes, Terre Haute and Crawfordsville, and
landed home at six o'clock in the evening in time to attend the last service of a
protracted meeting within a half a quarter from our door.
We have four children, Cora L Price of Lawrence; second Sherman E Cooper,
of Kobe, Japan, has been absent nine years as missionary, will be home this summer if
the Lord wills; third Charles M. Bell, Wanatchee, Washington; the fourth Albert Ivan
Cooper, of Lawrence County.
My oldest grandson, David E. Bell came in from Washington on Thanksgiving
day to spend the winter.
---------
I was never much of a politician but I did consent to let the Lukinites use my
name once in order to elect another man, but they counted out the votes, I was 27 votes
ahead of the whole bunch, so the last four years of my stay in Illinois I was Justice of
the Peace, and I kept it all right, I guess.
Well Mr. Editor, I have just given you a small sketch of the facts asked for or a
part of them and as this is my first venture as a correspondent, I think I have done fairly
well. If all the absentees write as much as I have I think it will be up to you instead of
us. If I live to the 27th day of May, I will be 74 years old, and in fair health.
D. F. Cooper
------------St. Petersburg, Florida
January 15, 1915
Editor Press:
We note the marked column in the last two issues of your esteemed paper, with
the request that out of town former citizens of Sumner and patrons of the Press write a
short letter for the coming special issue for February 4, so here we are.
We came to St. Petersburg, Florida, first in February, 1906, to visit Mrs.
Cooper's parents, Dr. and Mrs. H. A. Murphy, former well-known and highly respected
citizens of your city, he having been the leading physician of that city for a great many
years, who had moved here about two years before and the difference in the climate
between this city and that of Sumner, our home at that time, was so great we were
captivated by it. The weather that month and March here was much like the first part of
June in Illinois, which is so much different from February there, that one can readily see
why we were so taken with Florida on our first visit, and not only the climate but many
things we have here, that we could not have in our native state.
12
--------(G. W. Cooper)
Biographical Note:
George W. Cooper was born
October 30, 1849 in Lawrence
County to William and Martha J.
(nee Newell) Cooper. George was
first married to Sarah Bell on
November 20, 1872, Sarah Died in
1901. He then married Carrie
Laura Murphy daughter of Hugh
Alexander and Emma Euphrasia
(nee Kingsbury) Murphy. Carrie
died in 1961 and George died in
1933. And are buried in
Greenwood
Cemetery
St.
Petersburg, Pinellas County
Florida.
---------
Biographical Note:
We have made a trip here every year but once since that first one, until the
last days of November 1913, after having decided to locate here, and having disposed
of our business in Sumner and the greater part of our holdings there, we packed the
remainder of our household goods, loaded them in a car and headed for this city, and
we arrived here on the first day of December, 1913, and have identified ourselves with
the people here, built us a home last year, and spent the entire year of 1914 here, so we
have tried out the long hot summer's here as well as the winters, and are still well
please with Florida, and can recommend it to all who may be seeking a home in a
pleasant and healthful climate, one that has many advantages as well as many
opportunities for making a living and some money besides.
This city is made up largely of northern people, who on visiting here have
been so impressed with the delightfully pleasant climate, as well as our natural beauty
of tropical scenes which we are so well pleased.
Florida is coming to the front rapidly as a winter resort for tourists and during
the winter months great numbers of our northern friends are coming here to get away
from the severe cold of the north and since they are finding out that it only takes 40 or
50 hours run on railways together to this land of sunshine and flowers, much of the
travel from the cold region is in the direction of Florida, and promises to be more and
more as the people become acquainted with the conditions that prevail here, so
convenient to them that the southern peninsula will in the near future be a veritable
garden spot in the winter season.
However, we do not forget our old home town and county in which we were
born and lived the greater part of our lives. Our thoughts often wonder about through
old Lawrence among the familiar faces that are very dear to us, because of the many
familiar names and faces that have grown dear to us in other years through
associations not soon to be forgotten, and my own immediate family, most of whom
are still living, live in Lawrence County within a few miles of the city of Sumner, in
the city of Bridgeport and immediate vicinity, so we are always glad to receive the
Press as it brings to us news from our old acquaintances and loved ones, our old
hometown and county, the many changes that are taking place from week to week, of
the young people that are coming to the front and are taking the places of the older
ones to our passing on because of the continual wearing out of all things in this world
and the inexorable law that all creation must pass on through one way, death but which
brings man away but from which brings man into that great mansion prepared for us
from the foundation of the world if we have been serving the Master faithfully in this
life.
We shall be looking forward to the issue of the “Pink Special" with keen
anticipation for the many good letters it will contain, as we have many good friends
and loved ones scattered in every direction in this country, especially over the west, so
if they all sand in their letters for this "special" it will be a great big treat to sit down
and read them all over, so we trust the many former residents of old Lawrence that are
now living in other counties, states and cities, and some in other countries, will join in
with their messages to make the "Pink Special" a great feast to us all and thus renew
our old-time friendships.
Very truly,
G. W. Cooper
-------------
13
Biographical Note:
Bone Gap, Illinois
January 30, 1915
Editor Press:
A few words for your February 11 edition, if it is not too late.
I am the youngest son of Andrew and Elizabeth Corrie, who were among the
early settlers of Lawrence County. I was born in Lukin Township on the farm now
owned by James Kelsey. I married one of Christy Township's girls, Miss Clara Huston,
of southwest Sumner, and we lived in Lukin about 35 years and before going any
further will say there is some of the best people in Lukin of any place in the world.
About 22 years ago we took a foolish notion to leave the farm and drifted down to
Edwards County and settled in Bone Gap, the garden spot of the world, and started in
the furniture and undertaking business. We have only one child, (a girl). And she plays
the part of embalmer, and to show you how close we have stuck to business I have not
had a clerk a day for 22 years.
Lawrence County and especially Lukin township's people will always have a
warm spot in my heart.
Thomas E. Corrie
-------------
14
--------(Thomas E. Corrie)
Biographical Note:
Thomas’s father, Andrew was born
in Scotland. Thomas was born in
1855. The daughter he refers to in
this letter was Nellie born about
1886. Thomas, age 74, still owned
the furniture store in 1930.
---------
(Kent Cunningham)
Biographical Note:
Kent N. Cunningham was the
brother of E. Coen Cunningham, the
popular
Lawrence
County
Superintendent of Schools in the
1920-30’s. He was the son of Silas
and Laura E. Cunninghaom , born
Sept 1891. Without this letter a
family genealogist would not know
why Kent had registered for the
WWI draft in Little Rock, ARK on
June 5, 1917 because both the 1910
and 1920 census show him as being
a resident of Lukin township,
Lawrence Co. In fact both he and
Grace died in Lawrence Co, and are
buried in the Lawrenceville
Cemetery. His employment as a
loan agent for J. R. Hopkins in Little
Rock would be undiscovered. His
wife wrote an interesting letter for
the 1916 edition of the Pink Letters.
--------(Leota Jennings Donley)
Biographical Note:
Leota May Jennings was born on
September 21, 1862 in Nelson
County Kentucky to Hatsel
Freeman and Amilda (nee
Young) Jennings. On January 3,
1878 she was united in marriage
with Willis Donley in Lawrence
County. They are listed in the
1880 US census as residents of
Lawrence County. Willis was
born May 25, 1846 to James and
Elizabeth (nee Gains) Donley. To
this union the following children
are listed: Benjamin (b. Apr.
1879); Mary E. (b. Mar. 1880);
Freeman (b. Jan. 1881); Cloyd
(b. Sep. 1883); Warren (b. May
1886); Joseph Fifer (b. Aug.
1889); Thomas Joy (b. Aug.
1891); Isis (b. Sep. 1895); Willis
died February 9, 1903 and Leota
died on May 3, 1961 at the age
of 98 They are laid to rest in the
Bethany Cemetery in Campbell,
Missouri.
Little Rock, Arkansas
January 16th 1915
Dear Editor:
I will write a few lines for the non-resident issue of the Press for2015.
My wife, Grace (Daily) Cunningham and I formally were residents of Lukin
Township, near Bethlehem Church, both having been born and raised there. We left
there about three years ago and came to Little Rock, Arkansas where we now live. We
like our southern home and friends fine. I am employed by a loan broker having been
with the company one and one half years. We take the Press and enjoy reading it even
better than when we were in Lawrence County.
Yours very truly,
Kent Cunningham
1147 Rock Street
------------Campbell, Missouri
January 20, 1915
Editor Press:
As I am a wanderer and was a native of Sumner will try and respond to your
request.
20 years ago I moved to northeast Missouri and lived there 13 years. During
that time lost my husband and our child. I then moved to California, lived there five
years, in and near Bakersfield, and spent two winters in Los Angeles. I have six sons,
three in California, one in Texas, two in Oklahoma, two daughters in Campbell,
Missouri where I make my home. I have made a number of visits to my first home and
still have many relatives and friends that hold a dear place in my memory.
Wishing all many happy years and with great desire to see all and dear old Sumner
again, I am,
Yours very truly,
Mrs. Leota Jennings Donley
------------Cincinnati, Ohio
January 14, 1915
Editor Press:
You deserve hearty congratulations for the thought which prompted you to
publish the non-resident issue of the Press. There are, no doubt, a host of Sumnerites,
who like myself, take a keen delight in reading of the exploits of Sumner sons and
daughters though it has been 12 years since I left Sumner. I have always spent my
summer vacations there and my family and I have never failed during one of those
years to eat Christmas dinner there at the home of my parents. We live in Walnut Hills
one of Cincinnati's oldest and most beautiful hilltop suburbs. Cincinnati, called the
Queen City of the West, has many advantages not to be found in more populous cities.
It now boasts of possessing the tallest and handsomest office building, which is 34
stories high. The University of Cincinnati, a city institution is considered by prominent
educators as a model municipal University.
---------
15
There are many other advantages and valuable assets that I might mention,
but which would only serve to confirm the opinion in the minds of those who read this,
that Cincinnati is just another one of those great rushing cities where men are
swallowed up in the world of industry, like towns and cities in many states. My
business, though thriving, is never placed above good fellowship. My memories oft
return to Sumner’s trim streets and pleasant homes, its radiant firesides and happy
faces I have found no place yet to compare with that sunny spot in southern Illinois
that we love and call Sumner.
With best wishes to you and your readers for a successful year, I remain,
Yours very truly,
G. R. Dunphy
------------Danville, Illinois
February 7, 1915
Editor Press:
I see you would like to hear from all who have made their home in Sumner
and has I am one, I will drop you a line.
I have lived at several different places since I left Sumner but have found
none that I like better or had more friends.
I usually stop when passing through the town, but there are so many of the
dear faces gone that it does not seem like home to me anymore.
I now make my home with my daughter, Mattie Webb, and when any of my
friends are in the city of Danville they will find me at 228 Cunningham Avenue or I
shall be pleased to see them.
Respectfully,
Jenny Foster
------------Golden Gate, Illinois
January 15, 1915
Dear Sirs:
In compliance to your request of non-residents, who once made old Lawrence
County their home, (I) will endeavor to write a few words in regard to family and self.
I am the eldest son of the late Bascom French, Sr. (better known in Lawrence
County as Polk French) and Margaret A. French. I was born in the year 1869, in Lukin
Township, 4 1/2 mile south of Sumner, on the Sumner and Lancaster Road. I lived
there with parents until the year 1890, when I became united in marriage to Anna
Hillis, the daughter of the late Joseph Hillis also of Lukin Township. We then moved
to Christy Township about four miles southwest of Sumner, lived there until the year
1892, when we moved to Belmont, Illinois Wabash County at which time engaged in
the grain and milling business with my father, who had moved to Golden Gate,
Illinois, Wayne County, where we purchased an elevator and we are still engaged in
the grain, feed and livestock business.
We feel very thankful to our Maker, as we have been blessed with good
health and prosperity all these years.
16
(Guy R Dunphy)
Biographic Notes:
Guy R Dunphy, born Oct 9, 1873
was the son of William and
Elizabeth Dunphy. William had been
born in Ireland and was a grocer in
Sumner in 1880. About 1895 Guy
married Jessie Couchman and their
only child, a daughter Ernestine,
was born in Aug 1896. Jesse was
born in Sumner on August 8, 1873
to Andrew Jackson and Elizabeth
(nee Sherraden) Couchman. The
family continued to reside in
Sumner where Guy also worked as a
grocer. By 1910 they had
moved to Evansville where Guy
worked for the Harvestor Co. The
information contained in this letter
of 1915 is the only inference that
the family lived in Cincinnati,
because by 1918 when Guy
registered for the WWI draft
they were then living in Vincennes,
Indiana and he was working for the
Hartman Manufacturing. Guy died
in 1945. Jessie died in 1966 and
they are buried in the Sumner
Cemetery.
Annotation:
The Hartman Co in Vincennes began
in 1889 and manufactured riding
and walking two-horse cultivators
for corn, cotton, and tobacco and a
full line of rolling coulters for
breaking plows. In the early 1900's
the number of men employed in the
factory averaged about forty. They
then had three traveling men and a
trade which embraced the states of
Indiana. Illinois. Ohio and Kentucky.
--------(Jenny Foster)
Biographical Note:
Jennie Elkins was born in White
County on September 24, 1849. She
had one daughter Martha “Mattie”.
Jennie died on August 10, 1919 in
Danville and is buried in the
Greenwood cemetery. Jennie had
spent the greater part of her life in
Sumner before moving to her
daughters in Danville in 1899.
---------
(C. French)
Biographical Note:
Charles Augustus French was born
October 15, 1869 in Sumner to
Bascom H. and Margaret (nee
Vandamark) French. On October 15,
1890 Charles was united in marriage
to Anna Laurie Hilis. Annie was born
about 1872. To this union the
following children were born: Guy
C. (b. Jun. 1891); Hershel Glenn (b.
Mar. 1893); Imogene (b. abt. 1899);
Charlene (b. abt. 1906); Bernadine
(b. Oct. 1909).
---------
Our family consists of two boys and three girls, ranging from 23 to 5 years old. Guy
C., our oldest son is in medical school; Herschel our next son, is engaged in business
with me. The girls younger at home.
A word to our old schoolmates, friends and relatives. We quite often think of
you, and assure you it would be a pleasure to take you by the good right hand for a
shake, however we hope to meet you at some future time as we hold old Lawrence
County very dear, and expect to call on our friends and relatives from time to time and
should any of you ever pass this way don't fail to call on us.
New Mr. Editor, a word about the Press, the Sumner Press is the first paper
that I have recollections of reading when but a boy. My father was one of the old
subscribers of the Press, and we have had this paper in our home ever since, and must
say it has always been a welcome visitor.
We wish the new owners success and hope to see the Press retained its
standard as a newspaper and in fact be the leading paper of southern Illinois.
Editor Note:
Emily French also wrote a letter in
1917
Yours very truly,
C. French
Better known to some of
our school mates as Dick.
------------Kansas City, Kansas
January 24, 1915
Editor Press:
(Warren K. Gibney)
Biographical Note:
Warren K. Gibney was the son of
Henry H. and Melencia (Files)
Gibney
of
Petty
Township,
Lawrence
Co.
Warren’s
grandmother of English descent and
was a cousin of Sir Mathew Hale,
Chief Justice of Kings Bench.
Warren was about 52 years old
when he wrote this letter. His wife
was the daughter of Caleb Hoopes,
the postmaster in Sumner in 1880.
Warren and Martha were married
in Lawrence County August 22,
1886 so even though he said in this
letter that he left Petty township in
1885 he returned to Lawrence
county to take a wife.
---------
I was born in Lawrence County, one mile west of Sumner. My father was
Philo Bell, who lived there nearly all his life. My maiden name was Emily Bell and I
married Almond W. French, who died four years ago in Oklahoma. Since that time I
have lived in Kansas City, Kansas. I will enjoy reading this special edition of the
Press.
Emily B. French
-----------Hutchinson, Kansa
January 18, 1915
Editor Press:
I am located in the great salt city of Kansas.
I left Petty Township in 1885, going to Des Moines, Iowa, or I've lived for 16
years. Went from there to West Plains, Missouri, then to Kansas, or I have been for the
last nine years.
I am employed by Rock Island Railroad as locomotive engineer. My wife was
formally Mattie Hoopes, of Sumner and known by all the old residence there.
Warren K. Gibney
346 East B
------------
17
East St. Louis, Illinois
January 18, 1915
Gentlemen:
For your special non-resident issue to be published February 11, I would like
to have the following few lines published, that my friends, though still residing in
Lawrence County and elsewhere may still know that I am numbered among the living.
I, Mary Ann Diver, daughter of John and Nellie Diver, (Mrs. Nellie
O’Donnell), was born in Lawrence County on a farm three miles southeast of Sumner,
attended Clark school with brother John Diver, now residing in Bridgeport Married
Jas. Goff, employed by the O. & M. Railroad, now B. & O. Southwest Railroad in
1880. One year later Mr. Goff was transferred to East St. Louis and I have resided here
ever since. I am mother of seven children, five living, W. J. Goff, with Morris and
Company married Miss M. Kallihan, Nellie M. Married Mr. J. H. Nueble, manager
market Morris and Company, Kathryn M. married Mr. M. C. Reis, general manager
East St. Louis Lumber Company, Alice M. married W. J. Kenney, manager M.W.
Warren and Company of St. Louis, Thomas D. Goff, single all residing any St. Louis.
Also grandmother of 18 grandchildren, including two pairs of twins all living.
Yours truly,
Mrs. James Goff
522 North 7th Street
------------
18
(Mrs. James Goff)
Biographic Note:
Mary Ann Diver married James Goff
June 25, 1878 in Lawrence county.
To this union the following children
were listed in the census records:
James (b. Mar. 1879); Ellen (b. Oct.
1882); Kate (b. Apr. 1884) Alice, (b.
Sep. 1887); Thomas (b. Jan. 1894);
Mary Ann died on January 20, 1936
and is buried Belleville, St Clair,
Illinois
---------
(Daniel Thomas Gordon)
Biographical Note:
Daniel Thomas Gordon married
Mary E. Moore in Lawrence county
July 8, 1866. Their daughter that
died was Ada N. who was born
1868. D. T. fails to mention that the
last four daughters are two sets of
twins born 4 years apart. (The 1920
census appears to agree with his get
rich quick idea, because he is not
working and owns his farm outright,
but whether it was the ginseng
garden which provided his wealth
we do not know. Beginning in 1912
ginseng was in high demand in
China, and the Jesuits of Canada
began buying it from producers, and
exporting it. )
---------
Janesville, Illinois
January 22, 1915
Dear Friends:
I'm a reader of the Sumner Press and will say we are well pleased with it. I made the
acquaintance of the editor many years ago when he ran the Toledo Democrat and know him to be a Christian
gentleman.
In the year 1872, month of November, I moved with my wife and three children-two boys and
one girl to a farm in the north-central part of Cumberland County, near the old ancient village of Johnstown,
in said County. To us were born five more children, all-girls, eight children all told. Our first one, a girl, died
in her 17th year, rest all married except one, and all live in the greater state in the union-Illinois.
I have farmed, sold goods, bought hogs and grain, stock, sold real estate, ran a livery barn, have
been in the insurance business and now raising pure bred ringlet barred Plymouth Rock birds and for a
sideline. I have a ginseng garden with 30,000 plants and expect to get rich.
If I see this in the Pink Issue of the Press I may come again.
D. T. Gordon
------------
------------
19
Kearney, Nebraska
January 22, 1915
Dear Readers of Press:
I am glad for this opportunity of writing a few lines to so many at one time.
Think we ought to congratulate the editor for this privilege.
I hesitated to write at first as we lived on the boundary line of Lawrence on
Richland side but Sumner was our town just the same and we thought this too good to
miss.
It was five years last August since we left Sumner for the West. Must say the
Lord has been wonderously good to us, giving us health to enjoy about 360 sunshine
days (more or less) out of each year, making life worthwhile living as all Nebraskans
enjoy.
Time has passed so rapidly only seems as a dream. We often think of the
good times also that we have spent on the East side of the Mississippi. I am planning
for a visit at the old home about July 1915, so Boosters of Sumner keep up your good
work and plan to have a good time at Sumner, July 4, as I will enjoy seeing you all.
Respectfully yours
Ida (Kimmell) Haynes
-----------Cassville, Missouri
January 24, 1915
Sumner Press:
I see in your paper of recent date a request for old settlers of Lawrence and
Richland counties to write a short article of the early settlements of Sumner and
surrounding country as it was in early days. I can give a partial history as I now
remember it from 1849 up to 1879.
The country since then I presume, has
gone through many changes that I know nothing
of. In 1840 my father and family moved from
Coles County to Lawrence County and came to
where Sumner now is but at that time it was a
cornfield owned by old Uncle Benjamin Sumner.
I was at the time 11 years old, having been born in
1829. I grew to manhood in the neighborhood of
Sumner, Hadley and Claremont and knew nearly
every mile around, but the boys and young men I
associated with in those days have grown old, like
myself, if they are living. Most of the old citizens
have long passed away.
There were the Christy's, Clubbs,
Sumner's, Frenchs, Hillises, Leathers, Laws,
Conours and numbers of others I could mention,
but space won’t permit it this time.
In 1850 I and Miss Polly Smith were
married and if we lived till next Friday the 29th
we can celebrate our 65th marriage anniversary. We have had seven children born to
us, six now living. We have 37 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. My wife is
relative to the Sumner's, Laws, and Basden's, being an own cousin of one of your
20
(Ida Kimmel Haynes)
Biographical Note:
Ida Kimmel was born Feb 1880, the
daughter of Mathias and Doretha
Haynes. Doretha had been born in
Prussia. Ida married William Haynes
Feb 27, 1898 in Richland Co.
According to the 1910 census in
Kearney Co, Nebraska she was
widowed.
Editor’s Note: Her son Lee, then 13
years old, wrote a letter for the
1916 Pink Letter Edition of the
Sumner Press, and her daughter
Pearl wrote a wonderful poem for
the 1918 edition. Ida wrote again
on January 27, 1917. Her address
was 124 30 Street Avenue B
Kearney, Nebraska. After giving
credit to the past year for a year
well spent, and having blessed the
family of four with health, she
continues:
We have had the
pleasure of having my only brother,
Raymond H. Kimmel here with us
this winter. He is on a farm down
near Poole, Nebraska, and likes this
country fine. He had typhoid fever
while in Oklahoma just before
coming here, but has gained and
added weight since here and
enjoying good health. The children
are well, going to school, and doing
well in school work.”
--------(C. W. Higganbotham)
Biographical Note:
Della
married
Thad
C.
Hollingsworth, a 37 yr old bachelor
twenty years her senior sometime
between 1900 and 1910 and moved
to Knox County. Thad’s brothers
and two nephews were living with
the newly weds in 1910, but by
1920, they had moved next door.
---------
Biographical Note:
---------
towns ladies, Mrs. Martha J. Anderson, and I being a cousin of C. H. Gordon, of
Sumner and Mrs. Helen Turner.
I moved from Illinois to northwest Kansas in 1879. In 1904 came to Barry
County Missouri where the climate is much more mild. We are enjoying very good
health for old people, 79 and 85 years old.
C.W. Higganbotham
------------
Biographical Note:
Della married Thad C Hollingsworth,
a 37 yr old bachelor twenty years
her senior sometime between 1900
and 1910 and moved to Knox
County. Thad's brothers and two
nephews were living with the
newly weds in 1910, but by 1920,
they had moved next door.
---------
Bruceville, Indiana
January 30, 1915
Readers of the Press:
Perhaps it might be of interest to you to know something of my whereabouts,
too, along with the many other "wanderers". I have not wandered very far however,
being located on a farm in Knox County, Indiana 11 miles northeast of Vincennes and
two miles northeast of Bruceville. Our farm is rolling and its yields are very
satisfactory. Our beautiful pikes winding around the bluegrass hills produce a very
picturesque scene indeed and altogether I think as is natural for us all, that I have the
very best home on earth.
However, I have a warm spot in my heart for old Lawrence County, the place
of my birth and will always want the Sumner Press to be a weekly visitor at our home.
Very truly,
Della Perkins Hollingsworth
------------
--------(Mrs. S.E. Eckenrode and M. M
Hoopes)
Biographical Note:
Sarah Elizabeth Eckenrode age, 61
was widowed and had her own
income at the time of this letter. In
1910 her sister, Margaret M was
living with Sarah in Sumner and
working as a bookkeeper for the
Thomas F. Hoopes mercantile
establishment. Margaret had also
taught in Sumner public school,
acted as assistant postmaster for
her father, and was later connected
with the W. S. Hoopes Bookstore.
Their brother, William S. another
child of Caleb and Margaret E.
Denison Hoopes, was living in
Springfield, and selling insurance for
the “Etna Co.” Apparently the two
sisters moved to Springfield next
door to him, but after an extended
illness Margaret passed away at St.
John’s Hospital in Springfield on Aug
19, 1918 at almost 58 years of age.
By 1920 Sarah was living with her
brother William and his family.
---------
Springfield, Illinois
January 13, 1915
Mr. Editor:
Your request for a letter from the people who have moved away from their
old home town seems to apply to us as we have been away so short a time that we
have hardly learned to say that it is not our home.
It may be that some of our friends have not yet missed us and it would be well
to tell them we are pleasantly located at 223 E. Lawrence Avenue in this city and have
the State House, Governor's Mansion and other important buildings in our
neighborhood, also in easy walking distance of the business section and four or five of
the leading churches are quite near us. Our brother, W. S. Hoopes, living next door to
us, makes it very pleasant and homelike. We shall be glad to see any and all of our
friends when they come to the city. With kind regards to all and Press readers.
Very respectfully,
Mrs. S. E. Eckenrode
M. M. Hoopes
-----------Dana, Illinois
January 11, 1915
Editor Press:
I came to Dana in 1889 from Chauncey, Illinois, worked for my brother until
1910, when he sold out and moved to Lewiston, Idaho. I am doing well, have a shop
22 by 50 with shed 16 by 50. Have12 different machines run by gas engine making
most all the house trimmings I use. Am finishing an 11 room house at present. Have
brick on ground for basement of a 12 room house for my wife and self. We live on
Pekin branch of the Santa Fe which crosses I.C. at Minonk, six miles southwest of
here, have passenger each way from Chicago to Pekin, Illinois.
21
The business square of our village was burned last July, the fire originated
inthe meat shop, burned two dry goods stores and grocers, hardware and machine
shed, Lodge Hall, poolroom, restaurant, Opera Hall, barbershop, doctor’s office and
residence, farmer’s elevator and grain with offices and all their machine sheds.
Two dry goods stores rebuilt last fall of brick, poolroom and restaurant of
concrete, more will rebuild this spring
Yours truly,
George I. Hughes
-----------West Salem, Illinois
January 15, 1915
Dear Press Editor:
Having received through the columns of your paper, a request here from Ex
Lawrence County residents we will contribute our mite, having been a resident of old
Lawrence in Petty Township for 40 years and spent many happy days at grandfather
Samuel Smith's farm now my cousins Foss Smith, where there assembled parents,
aunts and uncles, while we children enjoyed ourselves in our hearts content:
In Orchard and Meadow
And deep tangled wild wood
And every loved spot
Which our infancy knew
But alas times have changed. We realize we are older and many of our friends
and schoolmates as well as our own, dear kindred are sleeping in the Pleasant Hill
Cemetery, and recollections only bring sad memories. We have been residing in our
own home in Edwards County for most four years, surrounded by friends, neighbors
and our children both of whom are with us yet. Robert has chosen farming as his
occupation while Rachel is doing very well with her studies in music. This leaves us
with reasonable health and all joined in sending best wishes to the Press and its
readers.
Very truly,
Annie Hardacre Irish
James
Annie
Robert
Irish
------------
Rachel
22
(George I. Hughes)
Biographical Note:
George was the son of Joseph C.
and Mary A. Hughes. Joseph was an
undertaker in Petty Township when
George was a small boy. George
married Elizabeth McHenry in
LaSalle Co, IL in 1900. When this
letter was written George and
Elizabeth were both 42 years of age,
with no children.
--------(Annie Hardacre Irish)
Biographical Note:
Annie Z. Hardacre married James
Irish in 1882 in Lawrence co, Robert
A. was born in 1894 and Rachel in
1904. Annie’s parents were Robert
M. and Minerva Hardacre.
---------
(Addie Wright Ivie)
Biographical Note:
Addie W. Wright was born in
Lawrence County on August 2,
1874 to Henry and Lucinda C.
(nee Brown) Wright. On June
3, 1900 she was united in
marriage to Charles Walter
Ivie, son of William Curtis and
Phoebe Lucretia (nee Goslin)
Ivie. Charles was born August
4, 1879. To this union the
following children were born:
Otis (b. Nov. 1901); Hubert (b.
Dec. 1905); Walter (b. Sept.
1909); Paul (b. Feb. 1911);
Charles (b. June 1920). Charles
died April 21, 1958. Addie died
49 days later on June 8. 1958
and They are buried in the
Sumner cemetery.
Editor note:
Addie wrote a Letter in the
1918 Pink Edition :
“When I think of the many
happy days spent in old
Lawrence, I almost wish that I
might call back a few years and
live them again, but alas! They
are in the past, only to be
remembered
and
fondly
thought of. Since leaving the
dear old home place of our
birth, there have been many
things happened, some that
make the hearts rejoice, while
others cause pain and sorrow.”
“I am the happy mother of
four boys-Otis, Hubert, Walter
and Paul. All are strong and
well, which is so much to be
grateful for, and oh! The great
anxieties of a mother's heart.”
We are now serving the
McLeansboro Station work of
the M. E. Church: have a fine,
large brick church and nicely
located in the city. We have a
fine Epworth League1 and a
pretty good Sunday school. I
attended school at old white
oak, which is a very dear spot
to me and my memory holds
dear
the
teachers,
schoolmates and classmates,
as well as the happy times.”
---------
Waldo, Kansas
January 13, 1915
Dear Friends:
I am glad that our editor has given me this opportunity of writing to you.
Some of you I have not seen for years and perhaps I may never see some of you
anymore this side of heaven.
The old home place where I was born and raised to seven miles southeast of
Sumner and Lukin Township, Lawrence County.
The old schoolhouse where I spent so many happy days with schoolmates and
teacher is known as "Old White Oak," near my old home.
My mind often goes back to my school days in the many happy times I had
with old playmates, as we played our childhood games. I taught several terms of
school and Lawrence Wabash counties.
In 1900 I was married to C. W. Ivie, and in the fall of 1905 we started in the
ministry. Since that time we have had many happy and refreshing times in the service.
We have seen many souls brought into the kingdom.
We served charges in Olney and Mt. Carmel districts in southern Illinois
conference and in the fall of 1912 we transferred to the northwest Kansas conference
where we are still laboring.
The Lord has wonderfully blessed us in his service and his crowning our
efforts with great success and into him alone we give the glory. He is giving us the
desire of our hearts and see many souls saved and Christian people made stronger by
his power.
My maiden name was Addie Wright and my father's name was Henry Wright
and he is still living on the old farm where my mother was raised and she, too, is still
living, for which I am very grateful.
I am looking forward with great anticipation to the reading of the many
different letters from friends that I have not seen for several years, and although we
cannot be gathered together in every union face-to-face, we will be in a reunion of
thought at least. I often longed to be back in Illinois and visit old friends again.
May God's blessing be upon all of you where ever you may be is my prayer.
Mrs. Addie Wright Ivie
------------
Epworth League
A religious organization of Methodist young people.
Members of the Epworth League are known as Epworthians. Taking its name from
John Wesley's birthplace, Epworth, Lincolnshire, England
------------
23
Flora, Illinois
January 21, 1915
Dear Sir:
There is little that I can say that would be of interest to your readers of
the "Pink Press" except that it is a pleasure for me to state that Sumner is still
near and dear to me and will always be thought of as home. I have lived in, and
visited many towns since my boyhood days and none of them, in my mind,
rank so high as Sumner in moral and social standing and as a trade center one
gets full value for every dollar expended.
My wife, three sons, aged 18, 17 and 9 respectfully and myself are
enjoying good health. I am still in the railroad business.
Yours truly,
McMerrell B. Judy
-----------Des Moines, Iowa
January 13, 1915
Editor Press Sumner Illinois
Dear Sir:
Now here comes Warren Kilgore to the Press reunion, left Sumner in
the fall of 91, but returned to Lawrence County and lived in Lawrenceville,
where he was married to Miss Bessie Salter of the same town in 98. In the
spring of 99 he went to Des Moines Iowa where soon after he became a
registered pharmacist. He has owned and conducted a drugstore there for
almost 14 years.
Two children have been born to him B. Frank, age 15 now a freshman
in East High School, a daughter, Louise age 12.
The Carnegie medal for bravery has never been awarded him neither
has he made a million dollars in high finance. This drugstore is not the largest
in the city and is located in a suburb where it is a convenient waiting place for
way faring people on wintry days and in summer a place where the populace
go to quench their thirst and cool themselves at the soda fountain. He is much
the same one that left Sumner. The long hours in the drugstore have not taken
from him his enjoyment of a good laugh and he is yet ready to see the ludicrous
and most any incident.
(McMerrell B. Judy)
Biographical Note:
McMerrell B. Judy was born in Sumner
on August 26, 1873 to Charles Clayton
and Caroline Melissa (nee Burget) Judy.
On May 30, 1895 he was united in
Marriage to Ruby Nell Durland,
daughter of James and Rebecca
Durland. Ruby was born in July of 1876.
To this union the following children
were born: Maurice C. (b. Apr. 1896);
Auston D. (b. Jul. 1897); Clyde E. (b.
abt. 1906). Ruby died in 1929 and
McMerrell died in 1964 and they are
buried in Elmwood Cemetery Flora,
Clay County, Illinois. He was a train
dispatcher.
--------(W. B. Kilgore)
Biographical Note:
Warren Beharrell Kilgore was born
August 19, 1875 to Benjamin Franklin
and Sallie (nee Edwards) Kilgore. On
October 20, 1898 he was united in
marriage to Elizabeth Salter, daughter
of William and Mary Ellen (nee
Holcomb) Salter. Elizabeth was born
November 7, 1874. To this union the
following children were born; Benjamin
(b. Aug. 1899); Sadie Louise (b. abt.
1903). Warren died on April 25, 1941
and Elizabeth died on August 9, 1957.
They are buried in the Glendale
Cemetery, Des Moines, Polk County
Iowa.
---------
Old home friends of this should call on him when in Des Moines at
1211 S. East sixth Street picture postal cards answered.
Mr. and Mrs. J. Peasley, who taught school in Sumner in 84 and 85
are residents of the Des Moines, where Mr. Peasley is a consulting lawyer.
J. Kent Barnesa former Sumner boy also resides in the Des Moines
holding a position with one of the large insurance companies for which Des
Moines is noted. J. Jones, former Lawrence County school teacher and L. A.
Morgan formerly city marshal of Lawrenceville are also Des Moines Iowa
residents.
Yours truly
W. B. Kilgore
1211 South East Sixth Street
------------
24
---------
(Laura Kinkade)
Biographical Note:
Laura Louise Wells was born in
Clark County Illinois to Frank and
Tina (nee Chesshir) Wells. She was
united in marriage on April 22,
1911 to Benjiman Harrison
Kinkade, son of B. F. and Nancy
(nee Coplea) Kinkade. Benjamin
was born May 26, 1889. To this
union the following children were
born: Opal I. (b. abt. 1912); Reba
(b. abt. 1914); Veleta (b. abt.
1918); Virl (b. Abt. 1920); Vera (b.
abt. 1922); Benjamin (b. abt.
1925); Mary L. (b. abt. 1927).
Benjamin died on May 10, 1971
and Laura died March 11, 1960.
They are buried in the Forrest
Ridge Cemetery Mt. Erie, Wayne
County, Illinois.
---------
Noble, Illinois
February 8, 1915
(William Lathrop)
Biographical Note:
William Grant Lathrop was born
April 19, 1885 to George and Rosa
Lathrop. On September 5, 1911 he
was united in marriage to LaNora
McCally. Daughter of Edward and
Nancy Rosetta (nee Tumblinson)
McCally. Nora was born July 24,
1886 in Sumner. To this Union the
following children were born:
William George (b. Apr. 1913);
Leland Delbert (b. Apr. 1915);
Harold Eugene (b. Oct. 1920);
Donald R. (b. abt.1923). Nora died
January 7, 1951 and William died
may 5, 1948 and they are buried in
the Sumner Cemetery.
---------
Editor Press:
Mr. Editor:
I will write to the Pink Press. I used to live in Lawrence County. I came to
Lawrence with my parents in the year of 1900, at the age of five and remained there
eight years.
Moved to Wayne County and at the age of 17 was married to B. H.
Kincaid, of Mt. Erie at Lawrenceville.
We are farmers and owned a small farm of 50 acres southeast of noble 11
miles in Wayne County on Forest Ridge. We have two children both girls. My
maiden name was Laura Wells, my parents were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wells, living
northwest of Bridgeport.
Wishing the Pink Press a success.
I'll close,
Mrs. Laura Kinkade
-----------Urbana, Illinois
January 18, 1915
Three years ago last September, on our wedding day, we severed our
connections with old Lawrence. I hope to that time had been in southeastern Petty
Township. My wife is the daughter of E. S. McCally, of north Christy. We went to
Westfield and lived there three years during which time I attended Westfield
College. At Westfield our boy, George Edward, now 21 months old, came to live
with us. He is a bright, healthy lad, just big enough to make things interesting.
Last fall we sold out in Westfield and moved to Urbana. I am doing work
in the College of Liberal Arts and Science of the state University expect to make
geology my major. If all goes well I shall finish my course here in 1917. The
University is certainly a great institution and is destined to become much greater
within the next 10 years if all plans of the present are carried out. Two new
buildings are now in process of construction, one of which, an addition to the
present chemistry building will make, so it is said, the best chemistry building in the
world. This one department requires a faculty fifty-four.
We see a count in the Press of several Lawrence County people who live
in Urbana or Champagne but had never met them here, not having been equated
with them at home. There are several here in school among whom are Ross Petty,
of Sumner the star football player, Mac Leach, of Bridgeport, Ralph Spencer, of
Lawrenceville and Levitt Kimmell, of Chauncey.
Wife takes music lessons, looks after the boy, and keeps a home going
while I go to school. We like the place very well and enjoy the work and life in
general. Although all this is true we are all glad when Christmas time comes and we
can speak back to shake hands with friends in old Lawrence once more to stick our
feet under fathers table.
William, Nora
and George Edward Lathrop
305 South Grove Street
------------
25
Metropolis, Illinois
January 10, 1915
Gentlemen:
I have noticed you expected to turn out an edition of the Press composed,
as nearly as possible, of letters from former residents of Sumner I do not know of
anything to tell our many friends and relatives of interest only I am still running a
flour mill, but as we have been here 17 years, must begin to think about getting
superannuated. Our only living son, Euerdge, is married and living at Centralia
Illinois, is traveling for the Huttigs Sash and Door Works, of St. Louis. He is
“making good.” Our daughter's Zazel, is completing her fourth year at Eureka
College from which she will graduate next June. I have been a subscriber to the
Sumner Press since its first issue by W. E. Mock about the year 1876. It has been
sent me at Bridgeport and Lawrenceville Illinois, Vincennes, Petersburg,
Dillsborough, Indianapolis and Franklin, Indiana, then for something over four
years got it through the post office at Sumner. For the last 16 or 17 years I have
received the paper here.
We still own property in Sumner and expect if I do not die in harness to fix
it up or build on the lot and come "home" to Sumner to finish out the time I have to
stay.
Yours respectfully,
L. W. Lent
-----------West Salem, Illinois
January 21, 1915
To the Editor Press:
Will write a few lines for special edition of the Sumner Press. I am always
glad to see my old home paper.
I was a resident of Sumner for 43 years. My father, Caleb Hoopes, moved
to Sumner when I was seven years old. There have been many changes. When we
went there it was a very small place, no church there, we had church in the school
house and big and small scholars were all in one room together and one teacher to
instruct them.
All the old people who would be 80 years and more, if living, are all
sleeping with the sleep that knows no awakening in the cemetery on the Hill. Mr.
Clark, whose body was brought back for burial, was living there when we moved
there.
My home is now West Salem, Illinois, a very nice town. Have been a
resident here for nine years. I visit my old home once or twice a year. While I
missed many old friends who have passed away, yet I meet other friends who's
familiar faces I am always glad to see.
Very respectfully,
Mrs. Molly Hoopes Mallinson
------------
26
(L. W. Lent)
Biographical Note:
Louis Willet Lent was born on
January 19, 1854 and grew up in
Lawrence County the son of
William B. and Martha (nee
Benton) Lent. On November 21,
1875 Louis was united in marriage
to Sarah Ellen Combs, daughter of
A. J. and Eunice (nee Baird) Combs.
Sarah was born on September 29,
1853 in Bridgeport. To this union
the following children were born:
Euerdge (b. Jun. 1883); Zazell (b.
Sep. 1892). Louis was a Millright.
Sarah died January 31, 1936 and
Louis died September 11, 1919.
They were laid to rest in the
Lawrenceville
City
Cemetery
Mausoleum.
Editors Note:
Superannuated:
Retired with a pension
--------(Molly Mallison)
Biographical Note:
Mary E. “Molly” Hoopes was born
on March 10, 1855 to Caleb and
Margaret (nee Denison) Hoopes.
On September 7, 1905 she married
Calvin John Mallinson. Calvin died
on June 22, 1928. Mary died on
August 21, 1919 and is buried in
the Sumner Cemetery.
Editor Note:
Molly wrote the following letter in
1916:
West Salem Illinois
January 26, 1916
Editor Press:
I am a subscriber of the Sumner
Press and have taken it ever since I
came to West Salem to reside 10
years ago. I took it for every week
and enjoy reading it and yet each
week contains the death of old
friends and acquaintances, which
makes me sad. It keeps me posted
on what is transpiring in and
around my old home town.
Mrs. C. J. Mallinson
---------
(Clement Malone)
Biographical Note:
Clement Earl Malone was born in
Lawrence County June 5, 1883 to
William and Emily Caroline (nee
Millhouse) Malone. Clement was
united in marriage to Frances Hall,
daughter of Robert and Cynthia
(nee Miller) Hall. Frances died on
October 20, 1932. Clement died in
Lawrence County in May 1966 and
is buried in the Bridgeport
Cemetery.
Editor Note:
Clement wrote a letter to the Pink
Press in 1917 and continues:
“I still reside in Chicago and am
with the firm Sears, Roebuck & Co.
where I have been employed the
last eight years. I take pleasure in
telling you I have been accepted
by the brotherhood of Free
masons and last July was raised to
sublime degree of Master Mason
by Veritas Lodge No. 926 , A. F. &
A. M.”
He lists his address as 830 S.
Claremont St. Chicago, Illinois.
Clement later worked for the
Sinclair Refining Company
---------
Chicago, Illinois
January 11, 1915
To the Editor:
Although I am not an “old-timer” and had no reminiscent stories of early
days to offer, I wish to write a line or two, if only to wish you the best of success
with the Pink Edition, which I consider a highly commendable effort. Also as I look
forward to it, hoping to hear from some old friends and schoolmates whom I have
lost track of, perhaps someone may be interested to know what has become of me.
I was born on what is known as the Malone farm, 3 1/2 miles southeast of
Sumner and which at that time belonged to my father, William Malone.
I am now married and living in Chicago for the past seven years. Have
been in the employ of Sears and Roebuck and Company.
My reminiscences are mostly of boyish pranks. In those days they raised
fine watermelons in Lawrence County. I remember one time I had been to
Vincennes with a load of hay. Having had no supper, on my way home I felt pretty
hungry. I passed a fine patch of melons and boy-like decided to satisfy my hunger,
never worrying about the right or wrong of helping myself to other people’s
melons. I had just picked out a couple of fine melons and with one under each arm
was proceeding to the hay rack when I heard a gun click and heard the farmer say
"I've got you this time". I said "I guess you have." He then proceeded to lecture me
and said, “Suppose young man, as you went along to town I had taken a bale of
your hay, what you would have said, and how much you would like that?” To
which I replied, "If you had been as hungry as I and wanted a bale of hay to eat, I'd
have said take it and welcome." The farmer, a big, broad minded man, saw the point
laughed and pick me out the finest biggest melon he could find, sending me on my
way rejoicing, but with this sage advice, “Young man, when you are hungry and
want a melon, go and ask for it and do not help yourself." I wonder if he will see the
story and remember.
My heart always has a warm spot for Lawrence County and friends and
companions there.
Wishing the Sumner Press continued success, I am
Clement E. Malone
128 South Hamilton Avenue
------------
27
Sullivan, Indiana
January 15, 1915
Dear Readers of Old Reliable:
Following the custom adopted, I now in response, say we live near
Sullivan Indiana our former home was near Sumner, in Christy Township. We live
in this location for about 40 years. Many friends did we gain during that period of
time.
It is a great recreation for a person's mind to wander back to old home and
friends.
One October 24, 1914, we bade farewell to Sumner and left for our home
here. On arriving we found our friends and acquaintances from (here) greet(ed) us
with hearty welcome.
(J. A. Marley)
Biographical Note:
Joseph A. Marley was born in
Indiana on March 9, 1855. He was
united in marriage and Nanna J.
Day, October 14, 1888. To this
happy and pleasant union one
daughter was born, now Mrs.
Anna Mathis .Joseph was a Deacon
of the Church of Christ at Mt. Zion.
Joseph died on October 6, 1918 in
Sullivan, Indiana and laid to rest in
the beautiful Woodlawn Cemetery
at Terre Haute, Indiana.
---------
Our nearest neighbors, Mr. Nesbitt's, are nice and accommodating people.
He often comes to your town to buy horses.
The people here are all nice and clever people always ready to assist you,
at any time.
The good ladies and sisters of this community had our house scrubbed and
ready to enter. The men were ready with their wagons and teams to help unload the
car. Among one of the faithful ones was Chalmer Moore. He assisted in every way
he could. He met the train in his machine and took Mrs. Mathias and little Joseph
Richard to his home until things could be put in order at home.
Perhaps someone would enjoy reading something about Joseph Richard,
my grandson. He is in good health, growing nicely and has two teeth. He still waves
bye-bye and whistles.
We like our new home fine and wish all who live near and around our old
stomping ground all the success that can be had.
For fear I might worry someone with my words, I will stop my pen.
Yours truly,
J. A. Marley and family
-----------McLeansboro, Illinois
R. F. D. No. 8
January 20, 1915
Mr. Wood:
At your request I will write you a few lines.
My parents moved from Ohio to Illinois. There were eight children of us,
five of whom are living yet. I was 11 years old when we moved in the year of 1853.
We crossed the river at Russellville on a ferry boat, came to Lawrenceville. It was
not much of a town then. Came through Bridgeport. There was but one business
house in the town then. Mr. Thorne had a store there. The O. & M. was graded and
but the trains did not run until 1854. We settled five miles south, one half mile west
of Sumner, in Lukin Township. About that time Sumner started up. In 1854 was a
very dry year. That year was the first I ever heard of Cinch bugs. There were plenty
of them that year. School and meeting houses were few and far between those days.
Our circuit preacher lived in Lawrenceville. He would get around once a month in
Sumner. He would preach one weekday in winter at night. We had three months
school in the winter. I could not go but part of the time.
28
--------(George W. Martin)
Biographical Note:
George W. Martin was born to
John and Elizabeth Martin.
Editor Note:
George wrote letters in 1916 and
1917 and 1919 see chapters for
his letters
Annotation:
Chinch bugs are almost 3/16-inch
long, have black bodies and fully
developed wings that appear
frosty-white Capable of injuring
plants such as grasses and corn;
medically harmless
---------
Biographical Note:
--------Editor note:
General George B. McClellan
became
the
unsuccessful
Democratic
Party
nominee
opposing Lincoln in the 1864
presidential election.
---------
Mr. Edmondson (unreadable). Buckhorn schoolhouse was built in 1855,
the year Buchanan was elected president. I often wonder how many of the scholars
are still living that started to school that year. The last I noticed to go was Mr. B. L.
Cunningham.
My first vote for president was for General George B. McClellan in the
year of 1864. I, with my wife and my brother, Jackson and family, left Lawrence
County in the year of 1881, another settled in dry year. Settled in Hamilton County
where we have lived ever since.
Well, I expect I have made my letter too long already. Pick out what you
want, though the rest in the waste basket.
George W. Martin
-----------Fruita, Colorado
January 11, 1915
The Sumner Press:
I noticed in the last issue of your valuable paper your intention to issue
what you have pleased to call space "A non-resident Issue" of your paper,
requesting those of us that have left dear old Lawrence County to furnish the
material.
--------(Harry G. McKelfresh)
Biographical Note:
Harry G. McKelfresh was born in
January 1870. To David & Elizabeth
(nee Stine) Mckelfresh. He married
Nettie F. Stiff.
---------
I must say that I regard the move as a wise one. I do not know that there is
a person in the wide world outside of my own kin that is especially concerned about
myself and wife for this constitutes the whole of our family, but I am looking
forward to this issue as being peculiar interest to me.
Your instructions are to write about personal matters, one self, family, etc.
This is a difficult thing for me to do but I shall endeavor to stay with the text. Mrs.
McKelfresh and I were married March 17, 1897 several years later March 1904, for
health reasons, we very much against their own personal feelings, tore loose from
loved ones and friends and took a journey of 1500 miles landing in Grand Junction,
the county seat of Mesa County, Colorado. And let me say that we regard Colorado
as being in many ways one of the greatest states in the union. Having lived in this
time on a farm we knew but little of city life but we very soon found out that the
folks here were very similar to the ones we had left and we soon had friends by the
score and really the people are much more sociable in the west and in the east.
As a boy and man on the farm I knew full well what hard work was so the
first work that I secured after locating was sawing wood with a box saw and say
that was real labor at least I found it so. This is my first experience at this particular
kind of work. This job prove to be a short one and having some little knowledge of
the Carpenter trade I soon found employment of this kind.
In December of the same year we moved 12 miles farther west, to Fruita,
Colorado, our present home. Here we engage in the grocery business for a little
over year, but sold our interest in the business and with one summer in the
mountains thinking that the high altitude would be more beautiful as it proved to be.
I spent this vacation cutting logs and doing labor at a sawmill. I was not the
foreman.
When I returned from the mountains, a two-story building was under
construction in the town and when completed a portion of the ground floor was
occupied by the First Bank of this city. I had no trouble in securing employment on
the job, stayed until it was completed, or nearly so.
29
At this time the company offered me a job as general roustabout, flunky, I
think they call it out here, and I was to spend what time I could in the bank doing
what I could and learning more if I could. After a few months I was relieved as
flunky and place in the bank as bookkeeper. About six years ago some resignations
took place with the office force and I was made assistant cashier, which place I still
hold.
Biographical Note:
We are delighted with the western country and the people. I would love to
tell you something of our delightful at climate, but that has been forbidden by our
good editor. Fruita is a small town hardly so large as Sumner, has plenty of
churches, splendid schools, waterworks, electric lights, sewers. We have many
other desirable some quite a number that are not desirable. There has never been a
saloon in town, and I would have you remember that the entire state went dry last
November.
As I said in the beginning we left Illinois came to Colorado with the hope
that the change would benefit Mrs. McKelfresh health, and it has done so, even
beyond what we expected. While it would be the joy of our lives to live with our
kindred and old-time friends, but had no thought of returning soon. It is ever so
much better to meet conditions as they are and not murmur. In the book we are told
that "Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain."We are here contented and happy,
trying if possible to make it so worlds are still tiny bit better.
Now dear editor if you have any use for this in your special, use it, but if
not just drop it in the wastebasket and let it be forgotten.
With best wishes for the Sumner Press and all this readers for a pleasant
and prosperous 1915, I close,
Respectfully,
H. G. McKelfresh
-----------Topeka, Kansas
January 24, 1915
Editor Press:
While visiting at the home of Warren Gibney, I had the pleasure of reading
the Sumner Press and talking of old times. I think it was about 1870, my father
Samuel McNeely, moved to Sumner. I attended school in an old frame schoolhouse.
First teacher was Thomas Stevens, later Miss Whitmore, Sallie Keene.
I have a copy of the Sumner Weekly Democrat volume 1 number 1.
Father is dead, mother living near Topeka. Since leaving Sumner have
lived in several other counties in Illinois into Colorado, Texas and now Kansas.
I often think of old Illinois as the best state in the union.
Frank McNeeley
517 Lime Street
------------
30
--------(Frank McNeeley)
Biographical Note:
Francis “Frank” Marion McNeeley
was born on October 7, 1860 to
Samuel and Elviria Dorcus (nee
Close) McNeely. In the 1880
census Samuel McNeely and wife
and Children Francis, William G,
Elnora, Emmaretta and Idella lived
in Petty Township.
Francis
married Alice Jane Reeder. Alice
was born in August 1868; To this
union the following children were
born: William Hollis (b. Dec. 1889);
Lola G. (b. Sep. 1891); Theodore L.
(b. Dec. 1893); John R. (b. Sep.
1898). Frank was a Tin Smith. Alice
died march 15, 1946 and Frank
died January 3, 1923 and they
were laid to rest in the Topeka
Cemetery,
Topeka,
Shawnee
County, Kansas
---------
(Charles S. Milburn)
Biographical Note:
Charles
Milburn was
born
February 1865 in Illinois to
Harrison and Emily (nee Shoff)
Milburn
He
was
married
November 11, 1885 in Lawrence
County to Laura Buchanan. In the
1910 Census children listed are:
Dora, Ray, Helen and (Charles)
Albert. His Siblings are John R.
Milburn, Mrs. O. H. Wood, Mrs.
Harriet VanAusdel and Mrs. J. C.
Page
---------
Seymour, Indiana
January 15, 1915
Mr. Editor:
In response to your request for a letter for your non-resident issue, I will
attempt same and trust it will be appreciated by the readers, as I know we will
certainly find great pleasure in reading their letters.
We left Sumner 12 years ago next August, having lived there 18 years,
with the exception of our year spent in Olney, in the employ of S. J. Eckenrode.
While living in Sumner, I was employed in the mercantile store of Marion May &
Sons and I. H. Bunn. Mr. May and Mr. Bunn, excellent men, both have since gone
to their reward. I accepted a position with the Buckskin Breeches Company of
Evansville, and moved to Seymour, Indiana and traveled for them exclusively in
Indiana territory, for 10 1/2 years, until the dissolution of that firm. I've been
connected with the Bray, Robinson Curry Woolen Mills of Louisville, Kentucky
with whom I hold a lucrative position.
We are truly thankful for the good things of life and prosperity, but have
suffered a great loss in the death of one of our dear children, Helen, who died in
San Antonio, Texas four years ago this next May, where my family spent the winter
months. I also lost my good father a short time before, at the age of 85 years. To
know him was to love him. My mother is living in Olney with my sister, Mrs. Jno.
C. Page. She is 86 years old and enjoying very good health. She spends the summer
months at Maple Shade farm near Mt. Carmel with my oldest sister Mrs. O. H.
Wood Her every need is looked after my sisters, Mrs. Page and Mrs. VanAusdel.
She will enjoy reading your non-resident issue so I will send her a copy.
Dora, our oldest daughter, who spent her childhood days in Sumner is still
home with her mother. Ray is married and is prospering as proprietor of the
Seymour Cleaning and Pressing Club. He was with me one year on the road with
the Buckskin Breeches Company. Albert, our youngest is 16, and a junior in high
school.
Seymour is a very progressive city of 8000, noted for its beautiful paved
and shady streets, well-kept lawns and houses, excellent school buildings and ward
schools, good churches and also a fine farmers club building, given to the farmers
of Jackson County, for their exclusive use, by the Blish estate, in memory of
Moody Shields Blish, the first farmer of Jackson County, and is kept up by the
estate. Seymour is 59 miles south of Indianapolis, 55 miles north of Louisville,
Kentucky, 87 miles west of Cincinnati, and 100 miles east of Vincennes Indiana.
We have three railroads; also one of the best interurban roads in the state runs
through here.
Thinking it would be wise to leave some space for more able writers, wish
to say in conclusion, that Mrs. Milburn and family join me in very best wishes to all
readers and friends far away, but not forgotten.
Our number is 516 North Ewing Street Seymour, Indiana telephone 792R.
The doorbell is broken that when in the city knock and enter.
Very truly yours,
C. S. Milburn
------------
31
Biographical Note:
Olney,
Richland County, Illinois
January 13, 1915
To the Sumner Press:
I was born in Lawrence County, in Christy Township, March 9, 1855, 2
1/2 mile south of Sumner and lived on the same farm until September, 1880. Moved
to Richland County and stayed until the fall of 1881, we moved back to old
Lawrence and stayed until the fall of 1883, then back to Richland County. My
neighbors in my boyhood days were grandfather, G. W. Johnson, Henry Bopp, Ned
Heath, Mr. Collings, Thomas Turner, Briant Sumner, James French, Chancy
French, Mr. A. Bailey, all of whom have since died. The first corn plow that we
own father bought at Mr. T. L. Jones. The store was where George Morgan’s Hotel
now stands or nearby. For the last 28 years I have been in the employee of the
railroad company in Olney
Joseph A. Miller
725 South Morgan Street
-----------St. Louis, Missouri
January 14, 1915
L. M. Wood & Sons:
I thought some of my old friends might like to hear from me. Born in
1877, in Chauncey, Illinois my father M. R. Newman was running a general
merchandise store there at the time after being in the employee of May & Bunn, at
Sumner He is now living at York Illinois, Clark County, farming and doing nicely.
I am in the employee Swift & company, St. Louis, Missouri, as
bookkeeper, since 1902, work four years for the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and
Southern Railway previous to this, which was my first position after leaving school.
17 years of straight work out of my 38 years of life.
My wife and I paid a visit to my old hometown two years ago, stopping at
my cousin's house, Fred Correll.
I left Chauncey in 1884, and was only back twice since then in 1889 and
1912. I lived in Sumner with my aunt and uncle, S. S. Henderson and wife for
almost one year. Think that was in 1885. Uncle Henderson died at Chicago in 1909
and since then my grandfather and grandmother coder having passed away and
having a family, working all the time, I do not get to make many visits to Lawrence
County. Uncle Morris C. Coder, as lots of the readers know, is now stopping with
me here in St. Louis.
Respectfully,
Clarence A. Newman
2769 Chonteau Avenue
------------
32
(Clarence A. Newman)
Biographical Note:
Clarence Ashmore Newman was
born in Lawrence County on July
21, 1877 to Morman and Awlinda
(nee Coder) Newman. Clarence
was united in marriage to
Elizabeth (unknown). Norris A.
Newman was born to this union
about 1897. Clarence died on may
21, 1952 in St. Louis and was laid
to rest in the Walnut Hill Cemetery
in Belleville, Illinois.
---------
(Aaron C. Pepple)
Biographical Note:
Aaron C. Pepple was the son of
Jesse and Margaret Pepple born in
December 1863. He has two
sisters. Mrs. Lyman Stivers and
Mrs. C. V. Murphy, Three brothers,
Oliver Jasper and Theodore. F. and
Harley M. Pepple. Aaron married
Emma Jackson about 1900. The
1910 census lists four daughters:
Smith(?) age 8, Jarnet age 5,
Walker age 4 and Elizabeth age 1.
Aaron died sometime before 1918.
Aaron and Emma are buried in the
Oakland cemetery in Dallas, Texas.
---------
Dallas, Texas
January 13, 1915
Publisher Press:
I noticed in your newspaper that you want everybody that has “strayed
away" or run away, either night or day to write a letter to the Sumner Press. Of
course when you write a letter to the Sumner Press is just the same as writing to all
the home folks.
You say for us to tell you where we lived. I lived up in Petty Township, on
the banks of Muddy Creek near Spring Hill College. I left Illinois about 25 years
ago. Of course, I was very young then I had been traveling for the Art Metal
Construction Company, of Jamestown, New York will be 25 years the fifth day of
this coming April. They have paid my expenses and, of course, I have eaten three
times a day, and I am still on the payroll, still eating three times a day. Have
traveled throughout 29 of 30 states but has spent the most of my time in Texas, and
I am now almost a native Texan. Married a Texas girl and we have four little
Texans, all-girls, and of course the finest girls in the world. Now five native Texans
make one "Illinois sucker" stepson.
Mrs. Pepple and our girls are thinking of making a visit to Illinois’s that is
providing I can borrow the money to pay the railroad fare, as you know these
railroads have a habit of taking the money in advance.
I have been telling my Texas girls that I kept School at Buckhorn and Petty
colleges several years. They are anxious to see the place where they would allow
me to try to teach school, but I was there just the same, and those were good old
days down in Lukin and up in Petty. Lots of good old spareribs and backbones and
everything else good to eat and just as free as the water to Muddy Creek when there
was water.
You can travel all over the world but you can't find any better people than
they have in good old Lawrence County. They claim that the south is noted for his
hospitality, but I tell you that can't beat the people of Lawrence County. Lots of
good people down here in Texas and they have certainly treated be fine, and I
haven't any complaint to make.
The Sumner Press has visited me every week for the past 25 years that
means letter every week from home folks. I read it through and through and adjust
his anxious to get it as when I first left home, and if I owe the Press anything send
me a bill and I will remit it to your next payday. Wishing all the good people in
Lawrence County and the Sumner Press, all the good things there are in store for
1915 in ever more, I am,
Yours very truly
Aaron C. Pepple
"Everyday is the Best Day"
------------
33
Former location, Claremont Township, Richland County Illinois
Present location 124 30 St. B Ave.
Bonestel, South Dakota
January 1, 1915
To the Sumner Press:
Although I was a reader of the press in my father's home four miles
Southwest of Sumner, near Beulah Church, where he still resides, in the days when
that paper was edited by J. A. Igler, circumstances did not permit me to be a
continuous reader or subscriber but since I have been able I have been glad to read
it with interest, especially news of my old friends and most of my near relatives
who still live there.
I spent many years roaming about since 1882. I lived in a number of places
near central Illinois, in St. Louis and southern Missouri at a few different places in
South Dakota, including from Bonestel to North Dakota line, also in North Dakota,
Iowa and Nebraska and a short stay in Oklahoma. I also work at different
occupations, including carpenter work, mason work, almost all kinds of labor, mail
carrier, and at last came back to the farm. I have been speculating on Earvy, Ohio
Potatoes. I received first premium and extras at our County fair for the past two
years.
I have a home here now and plenty to eat anywhere since I have made my
home and Bonestel, about 15 years ago. I have not been Sumner since the first part
of the year 1902. This is the best winter since I lived here.
I have a home here now and plenty to eat anywhere since I have made my
home and Bonestel, about 15 years ago. I have not been Sumner since the first part
of the year 1902. This is the best winter since I lived here.
I wonder how many readers of the press remember the old camp meeting
held at John Kneppers Grove, west of the old Beulah log schoolhouse, when the
men made platforms of wood covered with earth to build Hickory bark fires on for
lights to light the Grove during the meeting. I was one of the boys who helped
gather the bark. Well, younger people have better places of worship out. We did not
sing with organs in. We used one horse to plow corn then. School was short-term.
We plowed in stumps and instead of the short term of school many were compelled
to take an ax and clear so the younger ones could have a better time. How many
think to thank those other ones who made longer terms of school possible and also
gave younger folks a chance to go to school full-time, also use modern machinery
instead of stump plow with aching ribs, a grain cradle and grass scythe, they have
the binder more and cultivator, all fixed up to ride upon. This is passed with the
thrasher and wild turkey and the old Hagley Road through the woods to Sumner or
to Andy Milligan's mill, east of town with cordwood as high as a man could reach
to use.
Samuel W. Perrott
-----------
34
Samuel W. Perrott
Biographical Note:
Samuel Perrott was born about
1860 in Ohio. He married Sarah V.
and two sons were listed in 1910
Census Jesse and Claude Hoar.
Samuels parents were both born in
England
Editor Note:
Samuel Wrote a letter to the Press
in 1917.
---------
(Isabel Petersen)
Biographical Note:
Isabel Henderson was born in
Lawrence County about 1856. She
was first married to Calvin Ridgley.
In the 1900 census the following
children were listed: Leola Ridgely,
Harly V. Ridgely, Jessie E Ridgely,
Calvin M. Ridgely. Calvin died
sometime before 1894. In 1894
she married David A. Lake and the
following children were also listed:
Bessie and Bertha Lake. David Lake
was not in the 1910 census. In
1911 Isabel was again married to
Robert Peterson as mentioned in
the letter.
Grand Junction, Colorado
January 20, 1915
Editor Press:
In answer to your special edition, I will write a few lines, as I was born in
old Lawrence County and still have many warm friends and love for my dear old
home and country back there.
I was born and raised a mile south of Lawrenceville.
My name is Isabel Henderson. I lived in Lawrence County until 1910, and
then came to Delta, Colorado with my daughter, Miss Bessie Lake, for her health,
but came too late and she passed to the great beyond. Then I remained here.
I married Robert Petersen, Delta, Colorado, where we had a beautiful little
home and many friends.
Last February we came to Grand Junction, Colorado, as Mr. Petersen’s
business called him here. We have made many friends here, and had met a few
from Lawrence County, which are our friends there.
I will say I love the beautiful sunshine & climate of Colorado and wish all
Lawrence County friends’ happiness and success.
As ever,
Mrs. Isabel Petersen
-----------West Liberty, Illinois
January 23, 1915
Dear Editor:
Harley V. Ridgley
Son of Isabel Peterson
---------
I was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania in 1844. In 1859 my father,
Abraham Piper, mother, Uncle Robert Piper, Brother Will, and myself came in an
old-fashioned, high wheeled, from Pennsylvania to Illinois and located in Christy
Township, Lawrence County. At this time there was no Sumner, and no B. & O.
Railroad.
--------(Theodore Edman Piper)
Biographical Note:
Theodore E. Piper was born on
January 25, 1844. He married
Margaret E. Hillis in Richland
County on May 22, 1863.
Theodore died January 15, 1919.
Annotation:
Catamounts:
Large cat similar to
mountain lion, or panther
puma,
Puncheon:
A piece of broad, heavy, roughly
dressed timber with one face
finished flat
---------
The Country was wild deer, wild hogs, wild turkeys, catammounts, foxes,
lynxs, raccoons, opossums, skunks, and minks were more numerous than the rabbit
is there today. Pheasants were as numerous as prairie chickens are today and there
were wild pigeons without number. I have captured my share of all these animals,
in fact I captured seven wild hogs one day and two lynx one night.
Now I must tell you about my school days. Mr. John McCarthy taught the
first school I attended. It was not a public school, but a subscription school, that is,
each student paid the teacher $2.25 every three months. The school house was log,
16 feet wide and 20 feet long with one window on each side. It had a puncheon
door, with wooden hinges and a wooden latch, a puncheon floor, clapboard ceiling,
clapboard roof, puncheon seats without backs, wooden pins were placed in the
holes, that were bored near the windows, and a board laid on these served as a
writing desk. Two could write at a time. Now don't you think we had a glorious
time.
35
In June, 1862, I enlisted as a volunteer in the Civil War at Sumner. I was
in Company K, Illinois Regiment number 70. Then came the second glorious time.
Biographical Note:
---------
I have been married twice. My first wife's maiden name was Margaret
Ellen Hillis. To this union six children were born, three living and three dead. My
second wife's maiden name was Lucy Ann Fenis To this union seven children were
born, three living and four dead. At the present, the numbers of living children are
as follows: six children, 21 grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.
My present home is in St. Marie Township, Jasper County, Illinois.
I am 71 years young, a farmer, hale and hearty, working every day. I own
eight hundred twenty-four acres of land, a host of town property, and some money
on interest.
I have taken many a good old fox chase and coon hunt, and I still enjoy
coon hunting as much as ever.
Yours respectfully,
T. E. Piper
-----------Jonesboro, Arkansas
January 15, 1915
To the Friends who read the Press:
I can hardly wait for the wanderers edition of the Press, to see how many
of the voluntary exiles from old Lawrence County have availed themselves to our
editors kindly privilege.
Our Lot has been only that of average people and our paths far from a rose
strewn one, in the eight years since we left old Beulah neighborhood to make our
home for ourselves, verily strangers in a strange land, in northeastern Arkansas.
Like most farmers, we have had lean years as well as fat ones, calamities
(or seeming ones) as well as successes, but through it all, we have had splendid
health, and although we have many times suffered from attacks of plain
homesickness for the dear friends and scenes of other days yet we are much more in
love with our Arkansas home.
--------(Amy Weaver Richey)
Biographical Note:
Amy Weaver Richey was born
August 18, 1875 in Lawrence
County to Joseph and Susanna
(nee Kandel) Weaver. She was first
married to Mr. Allen and had two
children Benard and Margaret
Allen. She married Marshall
Leonard Richey. The 1910 census
lists their children as Joseph,
Bernice, Paul, Ella. The 1930
census show a son Oll F. Richey
born about 1907. Amy died
January 6, 1942 in Arkansas.
Marshall was Born March 27, 1867
and died April 16, 1930.
Six years ago we added a little Arkansan to our family, making seven
husky youngsters over whom we alternately worry and rejoice after the age-old
manner of parents.
In speaking of the good health we have had since coming here, Except
accidents for they are liable to happen anywhere. One of my twin sons, Clark Allen
was terribly injured in a timber accident near Manila, Arkansas last August. A
flying limb crushed from an immense tree in falling struck him in such a manner as
to leave nine fractures and dislocations.
For over a fortnight the balance hung poised between life and death, but
we feel that the Heavenly Father has indeed been merciful towards us, for the brave
young faith that smile back address from the hospital pillows, one our visits there
during that weary weeks that followed, now last down at us from a height of six
foot two, as he makes his way slowly through the familiar rooms, as we were
allowed to bring him home January 5, nearly 5 months after the accident.
36
Marshall Leonard Richey
Husband of Amy Weaver Richey
Biographical Note:
Financial conditions here are much depressed, as reports seem to indicate
them elsewhere. Perhaps they are worse here only the panic caused by the
depreciation of prices on cotton, the staple and in many instances the only crop
raised by southern planter. But few residents of the north can comprehend how
financial matters in the south are dependent on the cotton crop as it is taking years
of residents here to even get an inkling of it. It only affects us personally in
marketing other crops for this is the greatest section on earth for diversified farming
and we grow very little cotton.
Mrs. S. M. Corrells card of thanks in a late edition of the Press brought
back a rush of memories, centering around old Chauncey, for aunt Sarah as we
always love to call her, was our Sunday school teacher for several years, and it may
gratify her to know that her laborers have borne fruit and that another generation is
receiving the benefit of the truth she labored so hard to instill.
To her and to all the other friends of those days and since, whether in
Illinois or far away, we send kind greetings and as a parting word, the course of our
state song:
Come and see us neighbor, come along,
We’ll be there to greet you one and all
Tis the finest country found,
And we'll show you all around,
At our happy little home in Arkansas.
Mrs. Amy Weaver Richey
-----------
--------(William Henry Rosborough)
Biographical Note:
William H. Rosborough was born
on July 25, 1871 and died May 1,
1921. He was married first to
Martha J Utterback. He was then
married to Carrie Lovilla McCarty
and to this union were born the
five children mentioned in his
letter, Clyde, Floyd, Savilla, Alice
and George.
William and Carrie are buried in
the Hardinville Cemetery.
---------
Hardinville, Illinois
January 23, 1915
Editor of Sumner Press:
As you want to hear from Lawrence County people, I will say that I was a
resident of Lawrence County 3 1/2 years. I lived on the J. F. Rosborough farm, one
half miles south of Chauncey. I spent my early married life there. I will say that I
had the best neighbors there I ever had in my life. I want to say that David Watts
was like a father to me and brother J. N. Carlisle. I shall never forget his good
advice, which he gave me, for I was a boy 20 years old then and needed good
advice. It was at Chauncey Christian church where I gave my heart to Christ 20
years ago. All I have to regret is that I did not enlist earlier in life.
I wish I could meet with the people of Chauncey and worship with them. I
want to tell them all where I live, Hardinville, Illinois. I run a livery barn and farm
some. I keep five horses and an automobile. I live in my own property. I have five
children, four boys and one girl. I have a pair of Twins four years old last August.
The girl can play the piano. She can play 15 or 20 pieces by ear. She can go to
church and hear a song and income right home and play it.
I will say to all of my old friends and neighbors that I would like to see
them and talk of days gone by. I will close by saying I hope this issue will be a
success and that the editor has my best wishes for success.
Respectfully,
W. H. Rosborough
37
Merom, Indiana
January 25, 1915
L. M. Wood:
Since leaving Lawrence County, I attended the Central Normal College,
Danville Indiana. After graduating from the Teacher's Commercial, Scientific and
Law Courses I begin teaching in Crawford County. After teaching there two years, I
was called to teach at Union Christian College, Merom Indiana. After teaching
about two months I was elected Secretary of the Faculty, which position I still hold.
Mrs. Sanford has had charge of the Shorthand and Typing Department for
the past four years.
The Union Christian College was founded in 1859. It is situated in the
south part of Merom, and 27 acre campus, surrounded by a nice hedge fence. It
contains the college building, ladies dormitory, presidents home, baseball and
football grounds, lawn tennis courts and many beautiful shade trees.
Merom is quite a little college town, situated on the banks of the Wabash,
where the great Merom Bluff Chautauqua is held every year. Besides the College
and Chautauqua town is quite a business place for its size, owing to the fertile
agricultural territory which surrounds it. Some of this latest improvements: 1st, the
Merom State Bank, in which the writer is a director, second the construction of the
Tishomingo Tie and Stone Companies plant which will cost between $80,000 and
$100,000 when completed. The company hopes to have the plant completed and
manufacturing its products in the next few months.
I have been a reader of the Sumner Press for about the past 10 years and
look forward to its visits each week. It is like receiving a letter from a friend who
tells all the news from the territory. I appreciate hearing from.
Yours very truly,
W. S. Sanford
Logo of Sanford Brown College
Once owned by William Sanford
(William S. Sanford)
Biographical Note:
William S. Sanford was born in Mt.
Carmel on October 25, 1882 to
Elisha and Mary (nee Preston)
Sanford. He was married to Olive
“Ollie” Caroline Foss. Ollie was
born April 23, 1875 in Sumner to
John and Nancy Foss. To this
union the following children were
reported in the census records:
Raymond C. (b. abt. 1907); Noble
D. (b. abt. 1911). Ollie died January
30, 1941. William died on
December 24, 1959 and according
to William’s death certificate he
was married to Gaile Sanford at
the time of his death. William and
Ollie are interred in the Oak Grove
mausoleum, St. Louis County,
Missouri.
Editor's Note:
W.S. Sanford wrote a letter in
1916, 1918, and 1919. In his Feb 4,
1919 letter his address is 242
North Schuyler Avenue, Kankakee,
Il. He states that he is "Assistant
Principal at Brown's Business
college, Kankakee, Ill. It is a banner
year with this college. We have
had to increase our floor space
twice this year. We are now
occupying seven rooms on the
third floor of the Arcade Building."
Editor Note:
William purchased the Brown
Business College in 1920 and
renamed it the Sanford-Brown
Business College. In 1944 he sold
the college. The Sanford-Brown
name dates back to 1866 when
Rufus C. Crampton, a professor at
Illinois College, established a
school to meet the demands of
post-Civil War America. Today,
there are over 30 private colleges
and schools bearing the name
Sanford-Brown across the United
States.
---------
38
(J. L. Sheridan)
Biographical Note:
John Lawrence Sheridan was born
in Lawrence County On November
19, 1882 to Clinton Jerome and
Alice (nee Buzzard) Sheridan.
According to the 1920 California
census and his World War One
draft registration he was married
to Vernice, and he was a rail road
dispatcher. In 1930 he was staying
with his parents in Richland
County and listed as married.
Editor's Note:
Nine years after the devastating
1906 earthquake, San Francisco
celebrated the opening of the
Panama Canal with its World Fair.
Among the highlights was an
actual
Ford
assembly
line
that turned out one car every 10
min., the Liberty Bell was
displayed, Alexander Graham Bell
made the first transcontinental
call, and Thomas Edison displayed
a storage battery. 3.5 million
people attended the Panama
exposition in San Diego which also
celebrated the opening of the
Panama Canal. For over 100 years
20 Mule Team Borax has been
used for cleaning and laundry and
is now sold by the Dial
Corporation. Borax ore, mined in
Death Valley was moved across
the desert by mules. The original
20 Mule team's actually consisted
of two horses and 16 mules pulling
wagons designed to haul 10 tons
of ore with rear wheels standing 7
foot high. When J. L. Sheridan
wrote this letter, the Mule trains
had
replaced
by
railroad
transportation.
---------
Ludlow, California
January 10, 1915
Editor Press:
In answer to your public request for letters, from former Lawrence County
residents. Ever willing to help boost, (the all home print). No doubt California has
enticed more than her share of former home folks, to the land of sunshine and
flowers. Many may respond to your request, but as there will be few from the desert
country, will endeavor to confine my few words to the near surroundings of this
little town which has been my home for several years.
Vegetables and water are the scarce commodities. Of the first, greasewood
is our all, with exceptions of a few months in the spring when we get abundance of
wild flowers of a variety which requires very little moisture, but nevertheless
beautiful. Our nearest water is 1900 feet, straight down; this is composed largely of
salt and unsuited for any purpose.
Our water supply being hauled here in solid trains of tank cars, each
having capacity of over 10,000 gallons. Distributed through a city water system, as
$.65 per thousand gallons.
This little town is the outlet for the Death Valley country. Death Valley
proper, with its vast deposits of borax, salt, etc. has become easily accessible to all
by the building of a railroad directly into the Valley. This road was completed
November 15, 1914. The road was built for the purpose of handling the borax
mined by the original 20 Mule Team Borax Company, every housekeeper being
acquainted with the said 20 Mule Team Borax.
The mines produce an average of 1500 tons of borax monthly, shipped to
Bayonne, New Jersey, where the product is refined.
The question asked by everyone upon first arriving here, is how do you
live, what do you do, how can anyone stay in such places?
We live on the best that California produces, which is the best in the
world. Our transportation factories are of the best. 12 hours from the best markets in
the world.
Everyone here has work or business. Plenty of work and our businessmen
are all prosperous. Transportation and mining include the occupation and business
of all.
With no exceptions, in proven in instances, anyone spending as many as
two years on the desert, finds no place that fills their life as does the land of sand,
mountains and heat. (Yes and fleas too.)
A few words to the home folks. Of course you are all coming to California
this year. Under ordinary conditions it is the sightseers delight. This year they offer
two world attractions. The Panama, California exposition, open the entire year at
San Diego, California. The World's Fair of San Francisco, California opens
February 1 and will run the balance of the year. The choice of many routes will be
available. The Santa Fe offers the most attractions. Visit the Grand Canyon at
Arizona sure, and that petrified forests if possible. Stop over at Los Angeles, if you
can by force, get away a few weeks later, taken daily boat to San Diego. After five
hours on Miss Pacific, you will know if you care to go by water to San Francisco.
Don't believe all that they tell you about the sea sickness, it's worse than they say.
39
We are now at the exposition. When you tire of sight- seeing of the best
the world affords in the line of finished products, take one of the many auto buses
and go to the Tijuana, Old Mexico. There they will take what you have left in your
purse, including the purse.
Biographical Note:
No law, no protection, gambling in all its many faces. Boys, you have read
about faro, keno, blackjack, monte and bullfights, here's one of the few places in the
world they can now be found running wide open. Take a tip and leave all but $.15
and bus fare with the hotel clerk before starting.
Your destination will be the Worlds Fair at San Francisco, we will meet
you there and assist you in seeing the world, as well as buying a few dollars you
have earned skinning (unreadable), chasing mothe’s chickens and driving the fat
stock to Mr. Brian’s stockyards, which occupation we spent our youthful days in
doing.
Taking this opportunity of wishing all my old friends and neighbors a
belated happy and successful new year.
J. L. Sheridan
----------Cincinnati, Ohio
January 15, 1915
Publishers Press:
I am glad to have the opportunity to write a letter to the columns of your
paper, as it has been several years since I left old Lawrence County, and a very
good way to let some of your friends know where you reside, otherwise they would
not.
I was reared in Lukin Township, five miles south of your town, on the
Sumner and Lancaster Road, brought up on the farm, and natural clod-hopper,
which I think due credit should be allowed to anybody that has had the opportunity
and experience of an outdoor farm life.
I was appointed to the government in November 1905, and I realize the
fact that Uncle Sam has a mighty safe payroll to sign during this somewhat
uneventful state of conditions. We came to Norwood seven years ago, and have
since lived here.
Norwood is a beautiful suburb of Cincinnati, a 30,000 population, has her
own municipal water, electric and gas plants, and especially noted for her artesian
water, which is recommended by doctors for anybody that has ailments.
I have a very interesting family, a wife, of course, a boy and a girl,
especially interesting, when it comes to fitting them up financially, as the girl, just
past six, has already asked me when I am going to get her an automobile that she
preferred a Ford.
You are entitled too much credit for getting up an edition of this kind, and
the life that is being put in the old town.
Wishing you a prosperous year, I am,
Yours very truly,
Ralph O. Shick
Norwood Station
-----------
40
--------(Ralph O. Shick)
Biographical Note:
Ralph O is the son of Peter W. and
Jane Whittmer Shick. He is also the
brother of Ellis O. other Pink Letter
writers. They are all the nephews
of letter writers Francis M., and
David L. Schick
Editor Note:
Mrs. R.O Shick also wrote a letter
that year, in which she stated that
they had lived in Cincinnati almost
seven years, but actually were
forty minutes by street car from
the main city area. Her daughter
was almost 6 and her baby boy
was seven months old. The girl
was in kindergarten in the winter.
---------
(Virgil J. Simms)
Biographical Note:
Virgil Joseph Simms was born
December 8, 1891 and died in
February 1979.
Editor Note:
Virgil wrote a letter to the Pink
Press in 1917 (see 1917 Section)
In 1919 Virgil wrote:
“I was born and grew to manhood
on a farm five miles southeast
Sumner. My parents were W. H.
and Anna Simms. I attended the
central school at Franklin from the
ages 8 to 15. I would not go to
school when younger. The next
year I attended school in Sumner
and the next year I attended the
Normal school at Normal, Illinois.
The next four years I taught school
and attended spring terms at the
Normal school. I returned and
married and old-school may, Hazel
Simms, Price, daughter of J. W. A.
and Louella Price whom I had been
taking buggy rides and sampling
her cooking for four years. We
moved out here the following
spring to make our home. We
proved up on the homestead over
a year ago.””
”My brother, Ed, whose ranch
joins ours has moved to his store
at Lovejoy eight miles north.
--------(Isaac Slichenmeyer)
Biographical Note:
Isaac Slichenmyer was born in
September 1848 to John and Sarah
(nee Steffy) Slichenmeyer. Isaac
married his first wife Emma in
1880. His Second wife was Alice.
Editor Note:
The Jersey cow breed originated
over 600 years ago on the Island of
Jersey. Jersey milk has a rich,
smooth flavor because it naturally
contains higher percentages of
protein, calcium, and other
important nutrients than milk
from other dairy breeds
Malta, Montana
January 14, 1915
Dear Editor and Friends:
It has been almost one year since I left Sumner, for the cold and desolate
north or that is the description a great many people give this country, who have
never been here, but I had failed to find it that way. I had been intending to write a
long letter to the Press, describing this country and climate to the best of my ability.
But as this is to be a personal letter I will write the descriptive one sometime in the
future.
I live my 320 acre homestead 17 1/2 miles north of Malta, but on account
of the hill and between my place and town the distance is somewhat greater.
My brother, W. E. has an adjoining claim, also the Stine boys, of Sumner.
Through February and March I dug a basement and built a house. W. E.
arrived with our immigrant car April 1. We had a long tiresome task moving out
here since then we have worked together.
My neighbors and I have 920 acres all in one field and expect to add
another 320 acres next summer making 1260 acres surrounded by one fence. This is
where we range our horses and cattle during the winter.
The improvements in my claim consists of a house, barn, hen house, claim
all fenced and forty acres broke.
Identification and location: Virgil J. Simms, former schoolteacher of
Lawrence County, son of William Simms, living 5 1/2 miles southeast of Sumner.
Virgil J. Simms
----------Noble, Illinois
January 22, 1915
To the Sumner Press:
As I was a resident of Lawrence County at one time, I will write a few
lines. I moved there 21 years ago this month in the southwest part of Lukin
township, on my brother, Jacob Slichenmeyer’s farm, and lived four years on that
place, in as good a neighborhood as one would wish to live in. Since that time there
has been quite a change. Some have gone to their reward, and others moved away,
till it don't seem like the same place. At that time Sumner was our main trading
place. When we left Lawrence County we moved to our farm four miles southwest
of Olney. Three years later my wife died in after six long lonesome years, as it was
not intended that man should live alone I found a better half and am enjoying life
fairly well for a man of 66 years. I now live on, half mile west of Noble on the
Lincoln Trail, where I milk Jersey cows and patronize the creamery and raise white
hogs. Wishing all a prosperous year.
Respectfully,
Isaac Slichenmeyer
-----------
41
Danville, Illinois
January 9, 1915
Mr. Editor: Illinois
Dear Sir:
I came to Danville 13 years ago, or that three different positions before I
got on the Danville Street Railway, as a conductor, worked for seven years, or until
December 16, 1910, but I accepted a position as a brakeman for the Illinois Traction
System, worked as brakeman for 4 1/2 months and promoted to conductor, which
position I still hold.
(Glenn Smalley)
Biographical Note:
Glenn Smalley was born in
Lawrence County in December
1881 to Benjamin and Lucinda
(nee Carmody) Smalley.
I run over four different divisions the longest run is from Danville to
Springfield, a distance of 125 miles. The round-trip been made in 10 hours and 20
minutes.
I was united in marriage to Miss Mabel Brewer, September 18, 1907, and
to us on that February 7th 1913, was born a little daughter. We named her Doris
May; she departed this life October 11, 1913, cause of death, pneumonia.
I would like a copy of your paper, for which I am writing, sent to me at my
expense. Thanking you in advance for the favor and wishing my old friends and
acquaintances a prosperous and happy year, I am, and old Sumner boy.
Glenn P. Smalley
10 Columbus Street
-----------
Danville, Illinois
January 8, 1915
Editor of the Sumner Press: Sumner Illinois
Dear Sir:
I am located at Danville, Illinois, and married, have one boy eight years
old. We have lived here 13 years, and have been very lucky in always having a
good position. Eleven years ago the 20th of last October I entered the service of the
Danville Street Railroad Company as motorman, worked as same until March 15,
1905.
42
Glenn Smalley
---------
(Jesse Franklin Smalley)
Biographical Note:
Jesse was born on September 29,
1883 in Lawrence County to
Benjamin and Lucinda (nee
Carmody) Smalley. He was married
to Anna Johnson.
I then entered the service of the Illinois Traction System as conductor,
work at that till September 20, 1908. I then entered the office of the ITS as train
dispatcher, having worked continuously as same to present day
Effective the 16th of this month I will be superintendent of the Danville
Street Railway.
Through the columns of your newspaper, I desire to wish all my old
friends and acquaintances a prosperous and happy year.
I would be glad to receive at my expense the copy of your paper that
contains the news of all of the ex- Sumner people for which occasion I have here
written. Thanking you in advance for the favor,
I am,
Jesse F. Smalley
----------Chicago, Illinois
January 14, 1915
Jesse Smalley
--------(Albert Edward Stout)
Biographical Note:
Albert Stout was born December
21, 1886 to Chester and Nettie
Armitage and was married to Nellie
P. Powell. They had two sons,
Scott Martin and Francis Chester.
Albert died August 29, 1949 in Los
Angeles. Nellie Died January 3,
1952.
--------(Marion Strouse)
Biographical Note:
Marion is son of Jacob and
Margaret (nee Howman) Strouse
Editor Press:
As a reader of your paper I am glad of the opportunity you have offered us
wanderers.
My name is Albert E. Stout son of Chester and Nettie, born two miles west
of Chauncey. My mother’s name is now Nettie Sechrest residing in St. Francisville.
In 1902 I went to Ohio and worked in the oil field until the fall and then came to
Chicago and worked for a car manufacturing company until April 1908 when I
went home and stayed one month. The last of May I went to the northern part of
Michigan and took charge of 1524 acres of land (timbered) until November 1910. I
came back to Chicago and went to work for the same company which is the
Western Street Car and Foundry Co., manufacturers of freight equipment, capacity
84 cars a day of which I am now general labor foreman. I would be glad to hear
from any of the readers of your Press.
Yours respectfully,
A. E. Stout
----------New York City
408 East 54th Street
January 17, 1915
To: L. M. Wood Editor
Sumner Press
Dear Sir:
Margaret (Howman) Strouse
Marion Strouse Mother
A few lines to your most valued paper. And through the kindness of my
brother-in-law, better known around Sumner as plain Mart, whom I suppose pays
my yearly dues to the Press; he causes the old hometown paper to find its way each
week to 408 E. 54th Street New York City, my present home. Home, dear readers
do you realize how much that word home means? I was born in Christy Township
Lawrence County Illinois on October 28, 1878, four miles northwest of Sumner, on
the old County line. My father, Jacob Strouse, was or at least I think so, proud of
me as he named me after one of the most prominent men in the country in those
days, Marion May. But anyone knowing me yet around Sumner would know me
better by the name of Nip, a nickname given to me when small by.
43
Since leaving my old home I have traveled all over the world and during
the year 1913 I traveled some 12,000 miles of a journey not forgetting to stop in
Sumner before coming to New York City, the end of my journey and home. I am
now married and though my home is not blessed with any children I must say I and
my wife are doing well as these times will permit. I am in the employ of Swift and
Company and if times do not get any worse we, I mean she and I, hope to visit
Sumner sometime this year and will surely pay our respects to the Press office. I am
such a poor writer I hope the kind editor will excuse my writing and also correct my
mistakes.
Biographical Note:
Yours truly,
Marion Strouse
----------Pembina, North Dakota
January 15, 1915
Publisher Press:
I received your letter requesting each subscriber to write a personal letter.
Will say that I am located in Pembina, North Dakota in extreme northeast corner of
the state. 2 1/2 miles from the Canadian line. Have been in this place since June
1910 and think it is just as good as any. Plenty of money in the summer and plenty
of rest in the winter
I worked last summer in an automobile garage.
During the month of December helped my brother-in-law Loran Dunn,
who is running a meat market here, do some butchering. We kill between 30 and 35
head of hogs and the thermometer stood around 30 below zero most of the time. I
was unlucky enough to get one of my feet badly frosted and have been laid up with
it since.
I think I have said enough about myself, but wish to add that I am always
glad to get the Sumner Press and hear the news from my old home where I was
born and raised one miles southeast of Sumner, but what is known as the Sammy
Sumner Homestead.
Hope all the wanderers will write as I will certainly know most of them.
Wishing you the best of success for the New Year, I am,
Yours truly
French Sumner
Son of Dock Sumner
----------East St. Louis, Illinois
January 17, 1915
Dear Sir:
I am a native of that good old Sumner town. I spent many a happy day
there. I would like to see my friends and good old neighbors and chat with them a
while. I left there in 1903 and came to East St. Louis, where I have made a good
living ever since. I haven’t been back there but twice. I will pay the old hometown
of visit someday. I am an old reader of the Press and won't do without it.
Yours very truly,
James A. Thompson
-----------
44
(Chauncey French Sumner)
Biographical Note:
French Sumner was born July 8,
1874 to Leander and Mary J. (nee
French) Sumner in Lawrence
County. In 1920 French was living
with his sister Martha Dunn in
Pollock, Campbell, South Dakota.
In 1910 all had moved to Pembina,
North Dakota. Chauncey F. Sumner
died in November 1970 in
Mobridge,
Walworth,
South
Dakota
---------
(Charles Wiley Vandament)
Biographical Note:
Charles Wiley Vandament, the son
of Wiley and Matilda J.
Vandament, was born April 26,
1884 in Lukin Township. He died in
Beebe, Arkansas July 8, 1947.
---------
--------(David B. Van Scyoc)
David B. Van Scyoc, son of William
and Susan Van Scyoc was born in
Sumner September 16, 1854. On
September 13, 1877 he married
Lydia Ellen Dishong. In addition to
the three children he mentions in
this letter, Fred O., Loral and
Bertha, another son, Emery B. died
in infancy. While the letter
writer may have gotten his wish to
remain in Michigan, he returned
once last time to Sumner on
February 8, 1919 to be buried in
the Sumner Cemetery.
---------
--------(Mary Smalley Webb)
Biographical Note:
Beebe, Arkansas
January 17, 1915
Dear Editor and Readers of Press:
Am glad of this opportunity to let our friends know we are all well and
enjoying life, if not prosperity in the state of Arkansas. The writer, son of Wiley
Vandament, and wife, formally Lucinda Cooper, daughter of John Cooper were
both born in Lawrence County, northeast and lived there until in November 1911,
when we shipped to our present home of 160 acres of well improved farmland. 33
miles from Little Rock Arkansas the state capital.
We have two children, John Wiley, age 8 and Charles Paul, age 6, both
born in Lawrence County. They are both in good health and take a great interest in
their school work. They are also good cotton pickers. Have picked as high as 100
pounds apiece a day when from 150 to 200 pounds is a grown person's average. We
have had very good health the three years we have been here. Have had no fever or
chills, but are troubled some at times with cold or la grippe. Hoping to hear from
old friends by the Pink Press, I remain,
Yours respectfully,
Charles Vandament
----------Shelbyville, Michigan
January 11, 1915
To The Sumner Press, Sumner Illinois
Dear Readers,
In reply to the non resident issue, will say I was born and raised in
Lawrence County, Christy Township and spent about forty years in Sumner. I have
moved around quite a bit and have landed on a farm near Shelbyville Michigan,
Allegan County.
I have three children all of whom are married. Mrs. Bertha Knowlton of
Shelbyville Michigan, L. R. Van Scyoc of Shelbyville Michigan, and F. O. Van
Scyoc of Bridgeport Illinois.
I am in good health and well satisfied and expect to spend my remaining
days in Michigan, but will be glad to hear from any of the readers.
Yours very truly,
D. B. Van Scyoc
----------Danville, Illinois
January 13th 1915
Sumner Press:
I will write a few lines to my old home paper and home friends and
relatives.
Mary Smalley Webb
Mary Ann Smalley was born to
Benjamin Franklin and Lucinda
(nee Carmondy) Smalley. Mary
was united in marriage in 1895 to
John J. Webb son of Eugene and
Adeline (nee Dennison) Webb
(continued)
My maiden name was Mary Smalley daughter of Frank Smalley was born
in 1872; six miles southwest of Sumner near the U. B. Church known now as the
John Roach place. Moved with my parents at the age of seven years to my old
home, sweet home, five miles north of Sumner. At the age of 25 years was married
to John J. Webb, of Sumner, Illinois by Rev. Jackson.
45
We now have a cozy little home at 825 Johnson Street, Danville, Illinois.
We have had born to us seven children, five boys and two girls, Byron age 19;
Della, age 18; Lamont, age 16; Luella and Trella twins, age 14; Eugene, aged 10,
Evan and Trella, died at the age of one year. Evan was the baby of our family,
would have been eight years old last November. We are all members of the Bethany
Presbyterian Church. If we never meet again on this earth may we all meet in
heaven is my wish.
Mary Smalley Webb
----------Cassville, Missouri
January 17, 1915
Editor Press:
Will try and write for the special non-resident addition to be dressed in
pink.
I am stopping in southwest Missouri. Have been in Berry County for 12
years. Left old Lawrence County 1886. Have been back several times, but not to
live. This is the banner county of the state. It is a good fruit and dairy country and is
the most healthy country I ever lived in. We are on the dividing ridge of the Ozark
Mountains, 200 miles southwest of St. Louis.
We are making good. I am an engineer at an electric plant and flour mill.
At one of the largest stone queries and cutting sheds west of the Mississippi River. I
have been reading the Press for the last 35 years.
Yours very truly,
C. A. Webber
----------Marshfield, Indiana
January 12, 1915
Dear Editor:
At your request, I will give you a short sketch of my life. In 1849 my
father, Jacob Waggoner, came from Ohio to Lawrence County, in wagons, as was
the custom of early days for there were no towns or stations on the vast open
prairies of Illinois. At that time Sumner was not thought of. There were no
churches, no railroads, only one log schoolhouse to boast of and the hard old-time
benches were used, that after a day’s continued use would make you feel like you
had one of Van Amburg’s dromedaries more than anything else, and so we
managed to master a common education. Our first school was in 1851. There were
two mills on the Embarras River that ground corn for the early settlers, but we
could get no wheat flour nearer than Lawrenceville. So you can imagine how a
morning biscuit looked to us.
46
John was born in Bridgeport
February 12, 1872 and died June
26, 1938. Mary died January 24,
1954 They are buried at the Spring
Hill Cemetery Danville, Vermilion
County
Illinois. Evan, the infant son who
was mentioned in the letter was 1
year and 2 months old and his
uncles acted as pallbearers at his
funeral.
--------(Clement Alexander Webber)
Biographical Note:
Clement Webber was born in Ohio
June 25, 1861 to James and Susan
(nee Caldwell) Webber. He
married Rose Etta Sanders. The
1910 census lists his children as
Roy, Charles, Marvin, Tella and
Naomi. His family was living in
Golden, Jefferson Colorado in
1930. Clement had made his home
in Strawberry Valley California for
14 months preceding his death in
Yuba California on June 2 1951 and
he was buried in the Strawberry
Valley
Cemetery,
Strawberry
Valley California.
--------(Mahala Wurtsbaugh)
Biographical Note:
Mahala Waggoner was born on
January 1, 1938 in Coshocton,
Ohio and died at Chalmers, Indiana
January 22, 1924. She was
converted at the age of 12 and
joined the Methodist Church at
Chauncey. She was buried in the
family lot in the West Lebanon
Cemetery in Indiana.
Annotation:
A Dromedary is an Arabian hump
backed camel
Van Amburgs circus was founded
by Issac A. Van Amburg.
(continued)
(continued)
After Van Amburgh's death 1865,
Hyatt Frost, continued using the
Van Amburgh name. From him it
was leased by the Ringling Brothers
in 1889.
Editors note:
Mahala responded in the 1916 Pink
Letters and added the following:
“When in olden times the prairie
grass was taller than a man's head
and the deer, wolves and all kinds
of wild animals rove the country.
Oh, how afraid I used to be when I
heard those wolves howl at night
and to fear that some hunter might
set the tall prairie grass on fire. How
awful it was to see one. There was
no way in which you could escape
one of those fires, only to get
around or rush through and get
behind it. If one could have
presence of mind enough to just set
fire where they were and then get
in the burned off place, they could
keep you from doing any harm to
them. The hunters would always
burn it off in the fall, and then the
pasture would be nice in the spring.
How beautiful it was on a bright
morning to see the deer grazing.”
-------(Ida May Yetman)
Biographical Note:
Ida May Yetman was born
December 15, 1862 Perry County,
Ohio. She was the daughter of
Daniel and Mary A. Houts Burnside.
Daniel Burnside was a Civil War
Veteran. In the 1900 Census they
were living in Toronto, Woodson,
Kansas She was married to
Cornelius S. Yetman in 1880 and
whom passed away August 5, 1909.
He was 16 years her senior and a
Civil War Veteran. In C. S Yetmans
obituary he is described as “ a good
soldier both in temporal
and
spiritual service, yielding to his
country a loyal support and to his
God a willing obedience..” Ida’s
brother, George Balser Burnside,
also wrote a letter to the Pink Press
in 1915. Ida is Buried in the Sumner
Cemetery.
--------
My father Jacob Waggoner was a land agent. He entered 200 acres for
himself and made many trips to the land office at Palestine and forded the river to get
there to enter for different ones.
By the year 1858 I married Alfred Wurtsbaugh who has preceded me to a
better land by six years. To our union eleven children were born of whom eight
survive.
We lived most of our time in Lawrence County. Petty Township until the
year of 1884, then we moved to Warren County, Indiana at which place we lived at the
time of his death. One year later I left the farm and moved to West Lebanon where I
now reside as I am living alone. I often look back at the beautiful days of long ago but
my spirit yearns for the home which Jesus has gone to prepare for me.
Mahala Wurtsbaugh
P. S. In the year of 1856 they had a grand revival meeting in the old log
schoolhouse. At that time Alfred Wurtsbaugh and I were converted and united with the
M. P. Church. After coming to Indiana we reunited with the Free Methodist for which
we have ever prayed and gave thanks till this day.
----------Aurora, Missouri
January 13, 1915
Editor Press:
As you wish to hear from each non-resident of Sumner or vicinity. I will add
a few words. Husband and I went west as far as western Kansas 23 years ago, leaving
Sumner August 17, 1893, and after several years stay in Kansas we bought land and
moved to Cedar, County Missouri. After residing some years in Cedar, husband having
passed away, we came to Aurora, Missouri where I still reside.
I have visited in Sumner several times during the times of which I speak and
have enjoyed many happy hours with relatives and friends while there.
Wishing all a prosperous year, I am yours truly,
Mrs. Ida M. Yetman
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