FULTON COUNTY INDIANA
HANDBOOK
I-L
By
Wendell C. and John B. Tombaugh
Limited Printing
Copy No.____of 6
TOMBAUGH HOUSE
700 Pontiac Street
Rochester, Indiana
46975-1538
2001
This book cannot be reproduced without the express permission of Wendell C. Tombaugh, John B. Tombaugh, their heirs or assigns.
Made in the United States of America.
FULTON COUNTY, INDIANA
HANDBOOK
I
I.O.O.F. BAND [Rochester, Indiana]
TO PLAY AT RACES
The I.O.O.F. band of this city today signed a contract to play at the
Indianapolis Speedway Auto race which will be held on Decoration Day. This same
organization had a like engagement last year and also played at the State Fair.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 18, 1930]
I.O.O.F. CEMETERY [Rochester, Indiana]
ODD FELLOW CEMETERY JUMPED TO 60 ACRES
The Rochester lodge I.O.O.F. has completed the purchase of 36 acres of land to
be used as an addition to the Rochester I.O.O.F. cemetery, according to
announcement made Saturday by the trustees of the lodge -- Archie Miller,
William Ross and John Parker.
The 36 acres purchased was that adjoining the cemetery now in use and takes in
all of that land between the Erie railroad and the triangle formed by the wagon
road running south in a westerly direction and thence north on the west side of
the railroad. The plot was purchased of the Theodore Montgomery estate for
$3,600.
With the additon of 36 acres the total area occupied by the cemetery makes a
total of 60 acres. When completed and in use Rochester will have one of the
largest cemeteries in Indiana. The I.O.O.F. cemetery was established here about
75 years ago.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 16, 1924]
ICE HARVEST [Lake Manitou]
See Bailey Ice Company
See Ball Ice Company
__________
LAKE MANITOU'S ICE HARVEST ONCE WAS A LOCAL NECESSITY
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
For more than a century Lake.Manitou meant much to the citizens of Rochester.
First appreciated mainly for its fishing grounds, swimming beaches, summer
cottages, amusement centers and dance pavilions, in later years the lake has
become a prime residential part of the city while its waters teem with boaters
of many kinds and, yes, fishermen still.
In a sense Lake Manitou has been a Rochester industry and there is a peculiar
manifestation of that commerce which the passage of years has obscured: the
annual harvesting of the lake's ice.
Today we are cosseted with air conditioning to keep us cool and with electric
refrigerators and freezers to preserve our foodstuffs before we consume them.
But it was not until the mid-1930s that electric refrigerators became a presence
in most homes.
Until then Rochester's housewives depended upon iceboxes to keep their food cool
in the summers. And, for more than 40 years it was the previous winter's Lake
Manitou ice that powered this earliest type of refrigerator. Almost every city
residence had its icebox, for there was no other way except a natural spring or
salting to keep food unspoiled.
Icemen in horse-drawn wagons came to homes and businesses twice a week to place
blocks of ice in the top of the boxes. A pan that collected the melt at floor
level constantly had to be emptied to keep it from overflowing onto the kitchen
floor.
The harvesting of Manitou"s ice was a small industry in itself. Work began
in zero weather when ice had formed 10 to 18 inches thick. Inch-deep grooves
were cut with a horse-drawn marker, then the ice was broken off into blocks
about two feet wide with spuds - rods with a spadelike blade. The ice blocks
were stored until summer in icehouses, protected from melting by a cover of
sawdust.
Three of these huge e icehouses, owned by Bill Ball, were on the south shore
where today there is Smitty's Lakeside Service. The latter was operated for many
years by the late Bill Smith, Ball's grandson, and it was Smitty's father,
Admiral Smith. who delivered the ice to householders each summer. Wife Sue says
Smitty often told of how he and brother Don, when just small children, burned
down the buildings when they accidentally set fire to some straw while playing
with matches there. That was the end of the family's ice cutting, but by then it
had run its course anyway.
A second ice business was operated along the west shore by Charles Bailey,
grandfather of Harriet Jameson and Caroline Stephen. He had two large icehouses,
one at the site of today's Lakeshore trailer court on the north shore, the other
on the southwest shore west of the present Moose Lodge. At cutting time, he
employed as many as 30 men and two teams of horses.
Bailey purchased the.business from Harry Killen who in turn got it from the
first known Manitou ice dealer, "Uncle Billie" Carter. He started out
about 1878 and also had an icehouse in the area west of the Moose Lodge.
It must be remembered that in those days the lake's shoreline contained but few
cottages, making for easy transport of ice into the storage houses. In 1910, for
example, it was recorded that on the entire lakeshore there were only nine
buildings including five summer cottages.
Lake Manitou's ice harvest was not unique. At Akron's Town Lake Ed Arter cut ice
for many winters, then stored and delivered it in town the next summer. At other
Indiana lakes, the practice also thrived.
There was for a time another commercial use of Lake Manitou ice. J.E. Beyer was
a local entrepreneur who produced poultry and eggs, operated a creamery, the
city's first electric, plant and even a bank. He used lake ice to cool railroad
refrigerator cars in which he shipped poultry across the continent, the first
producer to do so.
The Beyer ice storage houses stood north of the dam until March 19, 1925, when a
cyclone scattered them and their blocks of ice in many directions. The houses
were not rebuilt, for by then electric refrigeration had come to railroad cars.
About that time, too, artificial ice had appeared here to begin the doom of the
lake ice business. Beyer installed icemaking equipment at his electric plant on
Madison Street. It later was leased by Bailey, then continued and expanded by
Northern Indiana Power Company in 1926. Public, Service Indiana (now Cinergy)
became owner in 1941 and continued ice making until 1945, when the process was
sold to a private operator and soon after discontinued.
So much for Lake Manitou ice harvesting, all of which has nothing to do with
Iceberg, in case you have been wondering. That was the name of a seedy section
of an earlier Rochester located east of the Nickel Plate Railroad between 10th
and 12th streets. Its name originated from one of its residents, Theodore Ice, a
drayman who hauled freight from railroad stations to local merchants.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, August 3, 1999]
ICE RING [Marshall county]
FARMERS NEAR CULVER ASSOCIATED IN ICE RING
An ice "ring" is something new in farmers' organizations. We have
heard about threshing rings for years, but now the ice ring. In Union township,
Marshall county, along Lake Maxinkuckee twelve farmers have their own ice house
and together put up their ice for the winter. They have been doing this for some
six or seven years and have become so accustomed to the use of ice whenever they
want it that they would not know how to live without the pleasures of ice.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 31, 1925]
ICEBERG [Rochester, Indiana]
An area of town, located approximately E of Nickel Plate Railroad, from 10th to
12th or 13th.
It was a less than desirable neighborhood because of the poverty of its
residents, some of whom were named Ice.
The area was mentioned by name in the Fortune magazine article about Rochester
which appeared in August, 1936
__________
NEW "MAYOR" ISSUES WARNING
Since the selling out and removal of A. B. Chamberlain from the quarter of the
city known as Iceberg, that citizen, who, for seventeen years, held the title of
"Mayor of Iceberg," has now relinquished all rights to the title and
it has been handed down to the next in line, "Ponty" Ice.
The new "mayor-to-be" stated this morning that the first thing he
would do of an official nature would be to put the lid on the dances that have
been held in that quarter for the past several months. His reason for so doing
is that the "Grizzly Bear" and "Turkey Trot" dances have
come into so much unfavorable notoriety in surrounding cities that he feels it
his duty to place a ban on the conducting of them in this city. The new
"official" alleges that the dances are not what they should be and
went so far as to say that if there was another "rough house" in the
berg he would see to it that the county jail would be filled.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 19, 1912]
ILER, ELSIE (SPOHN) [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
ILER, HAROLD [Rochester, Indiana]
DR. HAROLD ILER OPENS DENTAL OFFICE HERE.
Dr. Harold Iler, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Iler of Argos, announced today that he
would open a dental parlor here at 802 1/2 Main street. The equipment of the
office is now being installed and Dr. Iler will open the office to the public
Monday, July 18. Dr. Iler is a graduate of the Argos High School and of the
Indiana University School of Dentistry at Indianapolis in the class of 1932.
While in the dental school Dr. Iler was an honor student. Mrs. Iler was Miss
Elsie Spohn of this city.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, July 15, 1932]
IMHOOF
See Akron, Indiana, Woodcox & Imhoof Garage
INDEPENDENTS, THE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester Baseball.
INDIAN FIELD POST OFFICE [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Located near Leiters Ford four miles SE of a post office named Aubbeenaubbee, on
the opposite side of the river. [located on south of the Tippecanoe River]
Township 31, Range 1 East, NE 1/4.
Established in 1852, with Charles Enoch as postmaster.
Mail delivered once a week from Winamac by horseback by Ralph Smith.
In existence in 1857, and by 1897 it had disappeared.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
INDIAN FIELD POSTMASTERS [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Charles Schoch, Aug 12, 1852.John Leiter, July 22, 1861.
Discontinued Nov 21, 1861.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
INDIAN HILL FARM [Richland Township]
About 1896 the Frederick Barnhart Miller family moved to a farm northwest of
Richland Center known as the Gibbons farm and in 1970 it was the Indian Hill
farm owned by P. C. Ward.
[Frederick Barnhart Miller Familey, Malcolm Miller, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
INDIAN MILL [Rochester Township]
See Pottawatomie Mill
INDIAN RESERVATIONS
See: Wewissa Reserve
INDIAN VILLAGE [Rochester Township]
Located SE corner old US-31 and Tippecanoe River.
Restaurant. Later called Riverside Inn, when Eugene and Norma Vedder operated
it.
Torn down in 1976 by Bob Kern.
INDIANA AUTO SALES CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Announcing Nash Sales Headquarters. We invite the attention of the public
to the new Nash Sales Headquarters, established at the [NE] corner of Main and
Eighth streets. Indiana Auto Sales Co, Charles Babcock, Sales Manager.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 7, 1919]
FORD AGENCY HERE HAS CHANGED HANDS
A business deal was consummated here Saturday whereby R. H. Finneren of Detroit,
becomes the owner of the B. and H. Auto Sales Co., of this city, and the
partners of the Rochester firm, B. W. Breece and I. L. Hartman, purchase the J.
F. Horner Auto Co., of Monon, Winamac, Reynolds, Monticello and Wolcott.
Mr. Finneren, who has been for 10 years with the Ford Motor Co., which was
instrumental in bringing the negotiations to a close, arrived in the city Monday
to take up his permanent residence here. He will take possession of the local
Ford agency, which covers all of Fulton and parts of Kosciusko and Miami
counties, as rapidly as invoice can be made.
Breece and Hartman will remove from Rochester to Monon at an early date. The
business they are purchasing is also a Ford agency and covers a wide range of
territory in White, Pulasi and Carroll counties. The partners of the B. and H.
Auto Sales Co. came here from Peoria, Ill., where Mr. Hartman was connected with
the Ford people, just two ago. [sic]
The Indiana Auto Sales Co., which handles a line of auto accessories and the
Nash car agency, also owned by Breece and Hartman, will be disposed of at an
early date.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 25, 1919]
INDIANA BANK & TRUST COMPANY [Rochester, Indiana]
BIG BANK MERGER
Elsewhere in this issue of the SENTINEL will be found an announcement of the
consolidation of the Bank of Indiana and the Rochester Trust and Savings
Company, under the title of the Indiana Bank and Trust Company. The change will
take effect February first and the business of the bank will be transacted in
the present Bank of Indiana quarters by practically the same efficient force now
employed.
The consolidation is due to the fact that certain stockholders were largely
intrested in both banks and felt that by merging interests a larger and stronger
institution would result. The new bank will have a paid-up capital of $75,000.00
and will be one of the strongest financial institutions in northern Indiana.
Frank E. Bryant, of the firm of Holman, Stephenson & Bryant, and closely
identified with both institutions for several years, has been chosen president.
A. B. Green, for years cashier of the Bank of Indiana will continue in the same
capacity, with Charles A. Burns as assistant. A. J. Barrett is vice president,
P. J. Stingley, cashier, A. C. Beyer treasurer Savings department and Geo. W.
Holman, general counsel.
The directors include J. E. Beyer, G. W. Holman, A. J. Barrett and F. E. Bryant
of Rochester; A. L. Stephenson, J. M. Studebaker, Jacob Woolverton and R. C.
Stephenson of South Bend.
Both banks were doing a splendid business before the merger and with the
concentrated effort that will be put behind the reorganized bank it is safe to
say that the business will be increased largely. But few similar institutions
have a stronger board of directors and Rochester is to be congratulated on being
the home of the Indiana Bank and Trust Company.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 27, 1909]
CHAS. BURNS LEAVES BANK
Announcement was made today by the INDIANA BANK & TRUST CO. officials that
Charles BURNS, Asst. Cashier and Secretary, has resigned his place in the bank
to accept a position with St. Joseph County Savings bank of South Bend. R. C.
STEPHENSON, formerly of this city, is the vice president and treasurer of the
South Bend institution and it is at his request that Mr. Burns is to take up his
new duties. E. C. MERCER will be elected Secretary of the local bank, in place
of Mr. Burns.
Mr. Burns entered the Bank of Indiana soon after graduating from the local high
school, eight years ago . . . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 17, 1913]
ADDITIONAL LOCALS
Herman Coplen has accepted a position in the Indiana Bank & Trust Co., as
bookkeeper, the vacancy having been created by the recent resignation of Charles
Burns, who has taken a place in a South Bend bank. E. C. Mercer becomes
secretary and assistant cashier of the local bank. Mr. Coplen has been in the
employ of Beyer Bros. for the past year.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 24, 1913]
INDIANA BANK HAS ACQUIRED NEW HOME
J. F. Dysert has sold his building on Main St., occupied by his clothing store,
to the Indiana Bank and Trust Co. The latter concern will remodel the building
for a new bank home, the improvements to be made sometime next year. Mr. Dysert
has not said where he will move his clothing store. The present building
occupied by the bank is owned by A. P. Copeland.
The new bank home will have an entrance on Eighth St., and as it is connected
with the two Bedford stone front business rooms on Eighth owned by Holman and
Bryant, the bank will have room for expansion, if increased business demands it.
Besides a change in front, the Dysert building will be remodeled with a large
skylight near the center of the room. The Star Health and Accident Co. occupies
the rooms over the clothing store at present, and it is probable that they will
be allowed to remain.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 11, 1917]
INDIANA BANK & TRUST CO. OPENS NEW HOME SATURDAY
In order that the Indiana Bank and Trust Co. might open its new home Saturday,
as announced, an auto truck Thursday made a trip from Indianapolis, with steel
filing cabinets and other furnishings needed to complete the equipment.
Installation of furnishings and cleaning up are being rushed, so that the
officers and employes may greet patrons and friends in their quarters at 729
Main St., Saturday and Saturday evening.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 2, 1918]
INDIANA BANK IN NEW HOME
The handsome new home of the Indiana Bank and Trust Co., 729 Main street, one
door north of its former location, was Saturday opened for business and was
visited by scores of friends and patrons of this prominent Rochester
institution. The reception was announced to continue at night.
The Bedford stone and brick front, plain and substantial, and windows hung with
attractive tan curtains, impress one before stepping into the small lobby which
gives entrance into the main portion of the building. Many banks have corner
locations, in order to gain light and ventilation, but the desired result has
been obtained in this case by means of several clever ideas. In the first place,
there is nothing dark in the decoration or furnishing of the room, and in the
second, a hugh skylight, nine by 14 feet, together with the much glassed west
and south entrances, afford plenty of illumination.
Beautiful imported French Botticino marble, cream in color, with a base of
"black and gold" is used thruout the banking room, the walls being
done in cream to match and the ceiling is grey. All hardware and metal are of
statuary bronze, the electric lighting is indirect, steam heat is used and the
floor is laid with pink Tennessee marble.
To one's left, as he enters, there is a small room for private conferences, and
one next comes to the desks of President Frank E. Bryant and Treasurer A. B.
Green, arranged so that they are easily available to the public. On the wall
here hangs one of the few decorations to be seen, a picture of General John J.
Pershing.
Next come the cages, with the flags of the five chief Allied nations surmounting
the corner post. There are separate compartments for Secretary Herman Coplen,
Assistant Treasurer Edwin C. Mercer, Savings with Ralph Arnold in charge, and
the tellar. There are also wickets for the trust department and bookkeeper.
Telephone and coupon booths and the real estate and mortgage department are in
the rear of the six windows.
One then notes the heavy steel vault, with its Mosler door made of solid steel,
two and one-half inches thick, weighing 11,000 pounds. Inside one finds an
unusual money safe, Mosler's latest manganese steel affair, with triple time
lock and locker base, weighing 6,000 pounds. The manufacturer guarantees this
safe for five years against maurauders of any kind, but the bank has made it
absolutely "safe" by indemnify insurance. The vault also contains 100
safety deposit boxes, with jiggered nickle fronts, the bank's steel filing
cabinets, French gray, with nickle handles and plenty of room for other
equipment.
Now comes the rear portion of the room, done in quarter-sawed oak, with glass
partitions. French grey desk and chairs are used in the ladies room, which is
equipped with all conveniences. A room for men, similarly arranged, adjoins and
in the rear northeast corner is situated the directors' room, well lighted and
ventilated, and furnished with laminated oak table and chairs. A picture of
Abraham Lincoln adorns the walls. This will be available for small gatherings.
The lobby from the south entrance is as yet unused, but will eventually be taken
advantage of for some department of the bank.
In the main lobby, one notices two marble check desks, fully equipped and a
bench for waiting customers. Then comes one of the features of the new home
something that should probably have been mentioned before - an apartment set
aside for farmers and business men. A marble stairway at the right of the west
front leads down to this room, which is furnished and will always be available
for public or semi-public meetings of any sort. A partition cuts off another
room to the east, which can be employed for serving of noon lunches,
exhibitions, etc. Then there is a vault, just below that above, to be used
largely for storage of bank records and a rear room whence supplies etc., of all
kinds will be kept.
All in all, the bank's new quarters are strictly modern and up to date - a
noteworthy addition to the business section of the city. The expense of the new
home is said to have been $30,000 to $35,000 including the building, but it
looks to have cost much more.
Souvenir vanity boxes were given to women, while bullet-shaped pencils and
cigars were presented to the men, and pencils to the children. Visitors are
graciously received by the officers and employes of the institution, assisted by
Miss Mary Pfeiffer and Henriyetta Ward. An orchester played afternoon and
evening.
Every guest who visited the bank Saturday was asked to register.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 3, 1918]
INDIANA CHRISTIAN WOMEN'S HOME
FOR ORPHANS AND AGED PEOPLE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester College
INDIANA GAS & WATER CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
INDIANA GAS, WATER CO. ACQUIRES LOCAL UTILITY
Announcement was made today of the acquisition of the gas utility of the Public
Service Company of Indiana, Inc., by the Indiana Gas & Water Company.
William H. Sowers of this city has been named local representative to manage the
new company in Rochester. Mr. Sowers is well and favorably known here, as he has
been connected with the Public Service Company as service foreman for the past
several years.
Mr. Sowers states that new quarters will be established as soon as possible,
with Mrs. Herbert Zimmerman, who has been associated with the Public Service
Company office personnel for some years past, in charge of the new office. He
asks that until such time, the gas customers continue to pay their bills at the
office of the Public Service Company as they have in the past.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 12, 1945]
INDIANA METAL PRODUCTS [Richland Township]
Located W side of road, 4366 N Old US-31.
Manufacture screws for automobile industry.
__________
CONSTRUCTION WORK IS UNDERWAY AT SITE NORTH OF ROCHESTER
Rochester is to have a new factory!
Preliminary construction work was started today on what is known as the Wile
farm, located three and one-half miles north of Rochester on U.S. Road 31.
The factory is the Edon Products Co., which is moving here from 7610 South State
street, Chicago. This business firm, which is coming to Rochester without
fanfare or with the aid of subsidies, will furnish employment for 50 to 60 men
and women and the plant is expected to be in operation during the early months
of the coming year.
Building Modern Plant
In an interview late yesterday with Donald Holt, head of Edon Products Co., he
stated work was already underway and contracts let for the erection of a 16,000
square foot one-story manufacturing plant. The building will have a frontage of
160 feet and a depth of 100 feet. The front of the structure will be of Bedford
stone and pressed brick.
In addition to the plant building Mr. Holt stated that two or three of the
"Keymen" of this industry will build their permanent residences
approximately a quarter of a mile back from the highway making an artistic
setting for the entire project. The farm which was purchased from the Wile
estate contains in all 101 acres. At one time this same farm was seriously
considered as a site for the Rochester country club.
An Established Business
The Edon Products Co. manufactures stainless steel capped bolts which are used
on auto bumpers of practically all the standard makes of cars, stainless steel
bolts for airplane carburetors and other parts and also various kinds of kitchen
utensils. - - - - - [the rest of the story not on microfilm] - - - - - .
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, September 18, 1945]
__________
The Torx Division plant of Camcar, formerly Indiana Metal Products, located
north of the Tippecanoe River on old 31, came into being in rather an unusual
way. Donald Holt, who grew up near Kokomo, drove into town and quietly acquired
the old Ike Wile farm. The first anything was known locally about a plant was
when signs of building activity were noted alongside the highway. Investigation
was made and it resulted in my meeting Mr. Holt as the man behind a new plant to
be named Edon Products. He had built up his business in Chicago but numerous
strikes by the workers made him reach the decision to get out of the big city.
He said he knew about Rochester and liked what he saw. When asked why he located
so far out of town, he said he had grown up on a farm and he wanted his plant
out in the country. He also built a home for his plant superintendent on top of
a hill to the west. Later he sold out to Camcar Corporation besed in Rochford,
Illinois, which gave the plant a new name, Indiana Metal Products. It is a
prosperous, growing plant today.
[Hugh A. Barnhart, Fulton Co. Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
INDIANA MOTOR BUS COMPANY [Plymouth, Indiana]
"BLUE GOOSE" LINE IS GRANTED A BUS PERMIT
The Indiana Public Service Commission Friday afternoon granted a bus certificate
to the Indiana Motor Bus company of Plymouth to operate a bus line between South
Bend and Peru. The Indiana company, which is known as the Blue Goose line, has
been operating a bus line through this city to Peru and South Bend for the past
three years.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, August 10, 1925]
SALE OF RED BALL LINES TO INDIANA BUS CO. APPROVED
Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 22 - The sale of three certificates by the Red Ball Bus
Lines, Inc., to the Indiana Motor Bus Company of Plymouth to operate from
Indianapolis to South Bend through Logansport, Fulton, Rochester and Plymouth,
for $10,000 was approved by the Public Service Commission this afternoon.
The Red Ball lines is now being run by a receiver. Just when the Plymouth
concern will take over its rival line was not stated but it is thought it would
be as soon as details of the sale were completed. It is understood that the Red
Ball schedule will be maintained.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 22, 1926]
MOTOR BUS CO. GIVEN PARKINS SPACE OFF MAIN
After receiving complaints from various sources against the Indiana Motor Bus
Company using the main thoroughfare of our city as a parking space for their
mammoth passenger busses that run between South Bend and Indianapolis, the city
council assigned this company a 75 foot space on West 6th street. This new
location is situated directly south of the Linville restaurant at the corner of
Main and Sixth streets, which place of business also houses the bus company's
station.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, October 27, 1926]
[Adv] INDIANA MOTOR BUS CO. SCHEDULE - - - - Rochester Agency, Barrett Hotel.
Phone 19.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 8, 1935]
FT. WAYNE-WINAMAC BUS SERVICE STARTS NOV. 30
Indiana Motor Bus Company of Plymouth was today notified by the Public Service
Commission of Indiana that their applications for the new routes in the State,
and also their application to acquire the operating rights and property of the
Fort Wayne-North Manchester Bus Line, by purchase, has received the formal
approval and final order of the Commission.
The new routes acquired through original application are from Winamac to
Rochester, Athens, Akron, Disko, and North Manchester, and from Peru to Roann
and North Manchester. The new route acquired by purchase is from North
Manchester to South Whitley and Fort Wayne.
The granting of these new certificates to Indiana Motor Bus Company makes it
possible for the company to operate through passenger bus service from Winamac,
Rochester and North Manchester to Fort Wayne, and from Lafayette, Delphi,
Logansport, Peru and North Manchester to Fort Wayne.
At the company offices today it was said that the new operations would start on
November 30th, and that schedules over the new lines would be co-ordinated with
all north-south schedules of the company so that by one easy transfer passengers
can travel from any part of the line to any of the towns connected through the
new service.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 17, 1939]
INDIANA MUTUAL BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION [Rochester, Ind.]
IMPORTANT To those who wish to invest or borrow money. The Indiana Mutual
Building and Loan Association holds out greater inducement than that of any
other Association of like character. First, there is no admission fee charged to
become a member of the Association. Second, its interest and premium is less and
its earnings are as great if not greater than those of other associations. - - -
- ADAM AULT, Pres. L. C. CURTIS, Treas.; HARRY BERNETHA, Sec.; R. C. STEPHENSON,
Atty.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 6, 1892]
INDIANA PIPE LINE CO [Fulton County]
ANOTHER PIPE LINE THRU HERE
Because of the large increase of oil in Oklahoma, the Standard Oil Co. will
construct another pipe line through Rochester to eastern points.
Oil representatives have been through Fulton county to purchase the right of way
of the farmers. The line will follow the Erie railroad but will be placed on
private lands. Men are now working on the line east of Akron. They expect to be
in Rochester within the next two weeks.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 16, 1915]
PIPE LINE GANG
The Indiana Pipe Line Co's gang laying the new line along the Erie has moved
into Athens, out of which town work is being done. The 150 men have five big
tents.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 5, 1915]
CAMPING HERE
One hundred and fifty men, who are working on the pipe line, have moved from
Athens to Rochester and are now encamped near the canning factory. They will be
here two weeks.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 17, 1915]
INDIANA REALTY COMPANY [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW REALTY COMPANY FORMED
Rochester has a new business in the Indiana Realty Company, which has just been
organized and is located in the Sentinel Block. The company will conduct a
general real estate agency handling local city property and farm lands, and will
also sell Michigan and Texas lands.
The new company will have agency connections in several counties in Indiana and
Illinois, as well as other states. The company is composed of good reliable
business men who can be relied upon to do a straight-forward business. The
Rochester office will be conducted by Charles M. Gibbons as field manager and O.
A. Davis as secretary.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 10, 1909]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
ROAD PAVING FIRM IS MOVING TO ILLINOIS
Otto McMahan, manager of the Indiana Road Paving Company, which has just
recently completed a large road building contract for the state in Marshall
county, has finished loading the 14 carloads of equipment of the firm, which is
being shipped to Monticello, Illinois, where the local company, has a contract
to build 13-1/2 miles of hard surface roads for the state of Illinois.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 1, 1922]
NO UNEMPLOYMENT NOW SAY ROAD CONTRACTORS
Members of the McMahan Construction Company, which has contracts for the
building of roads at Decatur, Bloomington and Gilman, Ill., declare there is
nothing to the cry of unemployment at least so far as this particular community
is concerned. Otto McMahan, one of the members of the firm, who is also
connected with the Indiana Road Paving Company, took 10 or 12 men with him
Monday morning to Illinois to start preparations for construction work as soon
as the spring weather breaks. He delcared that the firm is now in need of fully
100 men and while they have tried in every way possible to employ them, they
have not succeeded so far. He declared that by the time construction work starts
in the spring they will need fully 400 men for the work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 26, 1923]
OTTO McMAHAN LEAVES ROAD PAVING COMPANY
Announcement has been made of a change in the personnel of the Indiana Road
Paving Company, Rochester road contracting firm, Otto McMahan, formerly a
partner, who acted as field manager of the company having sold out his interest
to his partners, Omar B. Smith, A. L. Deniston and Guy R. Barr. McMahan, who is
also a member of the McMahan Construction Company, partnership of the McMahan
brothers, will devote all of his time in the future to this firm, engaged in
similar business activities.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 29, 1923]
ROAD PAVING FIRM GETS ADDTIONAL CONTRACT
The Indiana Road Paving Company of this city were the low bidders on a three and
one-half mile stretch of road to be paved in Illinois at a letting at
Springfield on Friday. A. L. Deniston and Guy R. Barr, officers of the company,
returned from that city Saturday morning where they had put in their estimate.
The local organization bid only on this piece of work which lies southwest of
Pana and adjoins the stretch they had already secured at a bidding last fall.
This gives them 14 miles to be paved next summer and will consume the entire
time of the crews. Considerable work in grading and filling has already been
done and just as soon as the weather opens up the work will be started as the
equipment is now stored at Pana. Both Mr. Deniston and Mr. Barr will spend most
of the summer in Illinois in personal charge of the work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 16, 1924]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO GETS $407,900 CONTRACT
Springfield, Ill., Nov. 12. -- The Indiana Road Paving Co., of Rochester,
Indiana, was the low bidder on the paving of route 16 between Matoon and
Shelbyville, when bids on the work were opened here today. The low bid was
$407,900.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 12, 1924]
SENTINEL BUILDING, BEING REMODELED, IS LEASED
The building formerly occupied by the Sentinel, owned by Henry A. Barnhart,
which is being remodeled into modern business and office rooms, has been leased,
it was learned Tuesday.
The Indiana Road Paving company, which has had the front room upstairs, has
leased the entire upper floor for its offices, while the Crownover Music Company
has leased the lower floor, to take possession when the work of remodeling is
completed probably a month hence.
The rear part of the lower floor will be converted into an attractive studio,
entered by French doors.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, April 14, 1925]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. GOT HEBRON CONTRACT
The statement in the Tuesday issue of the News-Sentinel that the McMahan
Construction company of this city had entered the low bid on the more than ten
(10.608) miles of paving project between Hebron and Crown Point was an error.
The low bid was placed by the Indiana Road Paving Company of this city, the firm
in which Guy Barr and Roy Deniston are associated. Their low bid was $184,481.
The local "lead" of the story contained the error. Near the end of the
Indianapolis dispatch the subject was given correctly.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, March 24, 1926]
LOCAL ROADBUILDERS GET $211,228.24 CONTRACT
Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 18 (I.N.S.) - The state highway commission today
awarded the Indiana Road Paving Co., of Rochester the contract for the
construction of 10.75 miles of state highway No. 30 between Valparaiso and
Hammond. The contract price was $211,228.24.
__________
When interviewed at noon today one of the head officials of the local company
stated work would be started in early spring. The equipment of the company is
now stored at Hebron, Ind., which is but a short distance from Valparaiso. The
contract for pavement of highway No. 30 calls for completion by next fall.
Another strip was awarded this concern which calls for the laying of 4.5 miles
of water-bound macadam in Porter county. Other bids made by the local company
for contracts in Indiana and Illinois are still pending decision.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, January 18, 1927]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. GETS BIG ILLINOIS JOB
The Indiana Road Paving Company of this city was the successful bidder on a 14
mile hard surfaced highway near Pontiac, Illinois, Wednesday. The contract for
the road was let to the local concern by the Illinois State Highway Commission
at their meeting in Springfield, Ill., on the project which was sold for a
little less than $300,000. Work on the project will start next spring, Guy Barr
and Roy Deniston, officers of the Indiana Road Paving Company who were present
at the letting, stated Thursday. The local company this year built 10 miles of
cement road on Federal Road 30 near Hamlett and at the present time are working
on a hard surfaced road near Indianapolis.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, October 27, 1927]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. RECEIVES LARGE CONTRACT
Springfield, Ill., Feb. 3. (I.N.S.) - The state highway department today
announced the awarding of the following contract: Route 116 section 114
Livingston County pavement, Indiana Road Paving Company of Rochester, Indiana,
$128,864.41.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 3, 1928]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. RECEIVE LARGE CONTRACTS
The Indiana Road Paving Company of this city was today awarded paving contracts
by the Illinois Highway Commission for a 9-mile strip on Route 132, Section 101
lying between Moultrie and Macon, Illinois. Their bid on this strip being
$127,957.50. The Rochester road builders also received the contract for the
pavement of a 5-mile roadway on route 113, known as the Wills-Grundy, Ill.
highway. The bid being $89,586.05.
Messrs. Barr and Deniston are now in Illinois making arrangements to move their
road construction crews and equipment from Pontiac, Ill., to their new contract
sites and work on these improvements will start immediately. It is understood
the local men are in Springfield, Ill. today submitting their bids on other
highway improvements contracts which are to be let in the near future.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, October 31, 1928]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. AWARDED LARGE CONTRACT
Indianapolis, Dec. 18. (U.P.) - Contract was let to the Indiana Road Paving
Company of Rochester, Indiana today by the highway commission for paving
eighteen and seventy-five hundredths miles on state road No. 28, between
Alexandria and Albany in Madison and Delaware counties.
The low bid was $314,545.13 and the engineers estimate was 368,927.03.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, December 18, 1929]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. GIVEN BRIDGE CONTRACT
Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 28. (UP) - Bids on 25 bridges in 15 counties were
opened today by the State Highway Commission. According to low bids the 25
structures will cost $418,662. Engineers had estimated the work to cost about
$493,574.86.
The Indiana Road Paving Co. of Rochester, Ind., submitted a low bid of
$25,062.18 for one bridge on road 28 in Madison county and one bridge on road 28
in Delaware county. Highway engineers estimate for the two structures was
$28,763.19.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, January 28, 1930]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. LOW BIDDERS ON BRIDGES
Indianapolis, May 25 (U.P.) - The state highway commission today opened bids for
construction of fourteen bridges on state highways. The projects, low bidder and
engineer's estimates were:
One bridge on State Road 36 over Big Raccoon Creek, .7 of a mile east of
Hollandsburg, in Parke County, Indiana Road Paving Company, of Rochester,
$31,943.27. Engineer's estimate $43,292.43.
Two bridges on State Rad 36, one over Miller Branch, five miles east of
Rockville, and the other over Donley Branch, seven-tenths of a mile west of
Hollandsburg, both in Parke County, Indiana Road Paving Comany, Rochester,
$17,849.57. Engineer's estimate $26,159.12.
__________
The Indiana Road Paving Co. which is comprised of A. L. Deniston and Guy Barr
of this city also has a large road paving contract near Rushville, Ind., where
construction work is already well underway.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, May 26, 1931]
ROCHESTER FIRM GIVEN CONTRACT FOR BRIDGE
Indianapolis, June 18. - Contracts for the construction of five bridges, at a
total cost of $61,845, were signed by the state highway commission today.
The largest bridge in the lot will be that on state road No. 36 near
Hollingsburg in Parke county which will cost $31,943.27. The contract was let to
the Indiana Road Paving company of Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, June 18, 1931]
INDIANA ROAD PAVING CO. AWARDED 9-MI. CONTRACT
In the letting of over 92 miles of state road paving contracts by the Highway
Commission at Indianapolis yesterday afternoon The Indiana Road Paving Co., of
this city was awarded a nine and six-tenths miles strip of paving, Project 241,
on State Road 47. The contract price being $164,036.04. All of this work lies
within Montgomery county, which is adjacent to Parke and Putnam counties where
the local contractors completed an 18-mile paving job last year.
Practically all of the Indiana Road Paving Co.'s equipment is in storage in or
near Rockville, which will facilitate prompt action on the Montgomery county
contract just as soon as weather conditions will permit. At this time the
Rochester contractors are also erecting a large steel bridge in Illinois. - - -
-
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, February 11, 1932]
IND. ROAD CO. AWARDED FOUR BRIDGE CONTRACTS
Indianapolis, Feb. 16. (U.O.) - Bids for 19 bridges in seven counties were
opened by the state highway commission today. Engineers estimates for the work
aggregated $157,660.18. Four bridges were awarded to Indiana Road Paving Company
of Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, February 16, 1932]
INDIANA RURAL LETTER CARRIERS ASSOCIATION
NEWS FROM NEARBY TOWNS
At the Indiana Rural Letter Carriers' convention at Greensburg Saturday G. B. W.
Robbins of this city, was selected as a delegate to the national convention and
Joseph Babcock, of Wagoners, was elected vice-president of the Indiana
association.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, September 6, 1911]
INDIANA STATE GRANGE [Rochester, Indiana]
STATE GRANGE MEET
Delegates to the Thirty-first Annual Session of the Orde
Assembled in Rochester
The thirty-first annual session of the Indiana State Grange opened at Fredonia
Hall in the Arlington block, at 9:30 this ;morning in a public session. - - -
There were about one hundred and fifty delegates present at the opening session
and many more came in on the forenoon trains. At the close of the public
session, which was conducted by Fulton and Miami lodges, the Grand Lodge opened
with all grand officers present. - - - - - [entire front page devoted to this
story, including several photographs] - - - - -.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, December 10, 1901]
GOODBYE GRANGERS
[- - - - entire front page devoted to this story, including several photographs]
- - - - ]
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, December 12, 1901]
INDIANAPOLIS, THE [Lake Manitou]
See Lake Manitou Boats
INDIANAPOLIS, LOGANSPORT & SOUTH BEND TRACTION CO.
See Rochester, Roann, Wabash, Montpelier & Geneva, Ohio.
See Railroads
INDIANS, REMOVAL OF [Fulton County]
See Trail of Death
INDUSTRIAL CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
LOCAL NEWS
The Industrial club will banquet at the home of Mrs. Wm. Woods this evening.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 1, 1901]
INFLUENZA EPIDEMIC [Fulton County]
See Flu Epidemic - 1918
INGRAHAM HARNESS SHOP [Rochester, Indiana
New Harness Shop . . . over Plank & Dawson's Drug Store . . . George
Ingraham. Rochester, Ind., April 16, 1867.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 2, 1867]
INNERSPRING MATTRESS CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
Business is rolling along nicely for Rochester's newest factory - The
Innerspring Mattress Co., located on East Seventh street. Carl C. Jackson, owner
of the plant, says business is good, they like Rochester and hope to stay
permanently.
Production now is about 12 Nachman spring filled mattresses a day. Mr. Jackson,
N. O. Marshall and Herman Smith sell locally made mattresses over a 150-mile
circle.
Mr. Jackson was associated with his father in the Washington Mattress Company,
Washington, N.C., before moving to Rochester. Most of the employees of the local
plant were formerly from the South.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, May 29, 1941]
INTERNAL REVENUE ASSISTANT ASSESSOR [Fulton County]
C. E. Fuller, Notary Public & Conveyancer and Assistant Assessor of Internal
Revenue. Office at the office of the Rochester Chronicle, over the store of
Rannells & Elam, Main Street, Rochester Indiana.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 7, 1863]
E. B. Chinn, having received the appointment of Deputy Collector of Int.
Rev., for the county of Fulton, would inform the public that having made
arrangements with John F. Dodds, of Logansport, he is prepared to furnish
Revenue Stamps. . . Office at the Chronicle office, Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, January 26, 1865]
INTERURBAN STOCKYARDS [Akron, Indiana]
[Adv] STOCK RAISERS. It will mean more money for you to bring your livestock to
the INTERURBAN STOCKYARDS, Akron, Ind. Which I am now operating, managing it
myself and will be there daily from 7 to 12 to see you. I am buying hogs, sheep
and cattle every day in the world. I buy calves two days a week only. Ship your
livestock direct to the packers saving all commissions and stockyard charges.
This lets you profit more accordingly. Telephone me at Akron during the
fornenoons and at Macy in the afternoons and evening at my expense. CARL QUICK.
Remember - Stockyards open daily until noon.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, November 9, 1927]
INTERURBANS [Fulton County]
See Railroads - Winona Interurban.
Proposed: See Railroads, Rochester-Roann-Wabash-Montpelier-Geneva, Ohio.
Also, Indianapolis-Logansport-South Bend Traction Co., later changed on April
18, 1908 to South Bend-Plymouth-Rochester-Logansport Co.
INVINCIBLE CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
[reporting that the Invincible Club met Tuesday evening last, and was
well-attended.] Many ladies present. Speeches by Judge Miller, Wm. Sturgeon, Dr.
A. H. Robbins.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 22, 1864]
IRELAN & BAUM, INC. [Akron, Indiana]
See Haldeman & Co., Frank
See Akron Feed & Grain
IRON ORE [Fulton County]
See: Mitchell, Charles A.
See: Perschbacher, George
IRONS, DR. J. W. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] HOMEOPATHIST. Chronic and obscure diseases. Their dianosis and treatment
will receive special attention. Diseases peculiar to women, their Successful and
Painless treatment a specialty. Office and Reception Room in Long's new
building, Rochester, Indiana. DR. J. W. IORNS. [sic]
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 23, 1894]
DEATH OF DR. IORNS [sic]
Word was received here Friday evening that Dr. J. W. Iorns [sic], formerly of
this city, had died very unexpectedly, of paralysis, at Attica, where he went to
take baths for muscular rheumatism. His remains were taken to Hebron for burial
in Mrs. Iorns [sic] family cemetery. The Doctor made many friends during his
residence in Rochester and was a successful physician. He moved to Hebron last
spring.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 1, 1897]
HOME TOWN TALES
By "Pioneer"
If there was a Health Officer in Fulton County prior to the appointment of Dr.
J. W. Irons, in 1893, the appointee must have served on the Inactive Secret
Service Squad - for no one ever heard or saw him.
The placing of quarantine signs on the homes of contagious diseases, inform the
occupants that they must remain within, until official notice was given
otherwise, to make the rounds of neighboring homes, explaining the full meaning
of an established quarantine, requesting the kindly old ladies to remain within
the confines of their own back yard, asking the doctors to trim and disinfect
their whiskers, to order the grocers to arrange their sidewalk displays above
canine effectiveness, was more than a job - but, Dr. Irons did it.
To bring about a change, preach "Sanitation," stop the spread of
contagious diseases which heretofore had spread throughout miles of territory,
giving reason that would not be understood, made Dr. Irons a very unpopular man.
Grocer, butcher and baker, in fact half of the population of the town of
Rochester, talked seriously of hiring the town slugger to cripple the Doctor for
life. But he stood his ground -- the very personification of his name -- Irons.
Was Dr. Irons popular? -- of course he was not. Did he suffer the loss of his
practice, and on that account was forced to leave Rochester? -- of course he
did. All this, being true, Dr. J. W. Irons, was nothing short of a martyr -- he
pioneered for a community's good -- he was the first man in Fulton County to
give the children -- a chance.
The highest paid officer in Fulton County, should be the Public Health
Commissioner. He would be a "bargain" at $3,500.00 per year -- but he
must be a second Dr. J. W. Irons.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, February 11, 1935]
IRONS, WARREN B. [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Logansport Pharos says Warren B. Irons, a former Rochester boy, is steadily
rising in the theatrical business and is now interested in one of the biggest
productions on the road. He is associated with Joseph Hurtig, formerly of Hurtig
& Seamon, New York, in "The Girl from Happyland," a big musical
production. He is a son of the late Dr. J. W. Irons and has been in the
amusement business for ten or twelve years.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 8, 1906]
WARREN IRONS CLEANS UP ON THE STOCK MARKET
Dame Fortune has cast her golden smile upon Warren B. Irons, who lived in
Rochester more than thirty years ago. Irons but recently made a killing in the
stock market and as a result of his successful venture he has purchased a
fifteen passenger airplane which will be used by his family and he is making a
trip around the world. This aerial tour will start within the year. Irons is
distinctly remembered in Rochester although he has been away from this city for
many years. Old friends recall him as publicity director for carnivals and
circuses and at the time of his financial cleanup on the market he was owner and
directing manager of the Haymarket theatre in Chicago.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, March 20, 1929]
IRVIN, WILLIAM [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
WM. IRVIN MURDERED
Last Saturday night about 9 o'clock there was quite an excitement among the
citizens of Rochester occasioned by the report that a horrible murder had been
committed an hour previous at Leiters Ford, a village twelve miles west of
Rochester that has sprung into some prominence since the building of the Chicago
& Atlantic railroad which numbers that town as one of the stations along its
line. . . . .
Wm. IRVIN was a young man who lacked a few months of having attained his
majority. He was left an orphan at a tender age and has had to battle with the
world for a subsistence, being thrown almost entirely upon his own resources. He
was born near Rochester and had always made this locality his home. For the
advantages he has had he would compare favorably in morals and general
deportment with other boys of his age who had better opportunities for
developing into true and dignified manhood. For some months past he had been
engaged upon the new railroad, working under the charge of Louis VAURIS, a
Frenchman, whose sobriquet is Frenchy, and to which he cheerfully responds. He
is boss of one of the western sections on the road and had a number of hands
under his charge, among the number being young Irvin and an Italian. So far as
known there was no enmity between Irvin and the other men belonging to the
section. It is said that the American boys would occasionally joke and tease the
two Italians belonging to the gang, but never in a spirit of anger or hatred.
Last Saturday the men on the road received their pay and Irvin took a holiday,
while the other workmen went on with their work as usual. In the evening of that
day occurred the horrible tragedy by which a young man just blooming into
manhood, was cut down, the details of which are very fully and correctly set out
by our Leiters Ford correspondent in another column, who was upon the ground and
came as near being an eye witness to the tragedy as any other person except the
Italian, the Frenchman and the Frenchman's wife. From his account of the
occurrence it would seem that Irvin had called at the Frenchman's house on an
errand, and that almost as soon as he got within the dwelling he was followed by
Louis POURCIELLO, one of the above mentioned Italians. The party of men standing
on the street corner within sight of the house, watching for Irvin to return
with the key to unfetter the hand-car so that they might come to Rochester, soon
heard screams and loud cursing at the Frenchman's house and also saw two men
come out of the house into the yard, where loud talk and obscene language was
freely indulged in, the voice being recognized by the listeners as that of the
Frenchman's. It was a bright moonlight night but none of the witnesses claim to
have seen any scuffling by the two men in the yard, nor did they know that Irvin
had been hurt until he came up to the waiting party and informed them that he
had been stabbed. At this point there is a conflict of testimony among the
witnesses. Some say that Irvin stated that Frenchy had stabbed him, while others
insist that he said that Lou had cut him. As both the Frenchman and Italian are
named Louis it is hard to tell which was meant. Irvin made his way to Dr.
OVERMYER's office, which place he barely reached when he sank upon the floor and
expired almost immediately without uttering a word further in explanation of the
difficulty. And thus the matter stands. . . . . Soon after the bloody deed was
done, and a few minutes after the death of the boy, the Frenchman and Italian
very deliberately and calmly walked over from their residence to the village
store and mingled with the crowd, affecting no knowledge of the murder. They
were taken into custody by the citizens and held until the Sheriff was brought,
who arrested them and brought them to town where they were lodged in jail. . . .
.
The body of young Irvin was left lying on the floor in the doctor's office,
where his life flowed out through the ghastly wound, until Sunday forenoon, when
it was taken charge of by Mr. A. L. GOODRICH, step-father of the deceased boy,
and Dr. V. GOULD, his guardian. Sunday afternoon it was brought to this place
and given in charge of V. ZIMMERMAN, who, at his furniture establishment,
prepared it for burial, but not until after hundreds of people had gazed upon
the ghastly spectacle. From thence the corpse was taken to the residence of Mr.
Goodrich, where it remained until the burial, Tuesday afternoon. Funeral
services were held at the Baptist church, conducted by Rev. E. J. DELP, after
which the remains were deposited in the Odd Fellows cemetery. Elmer IRVIN, an
only brother of the deceased, a young man who served an apprenticeship in the
Sentinel office and was a member of the editor's family during the time arrived
from Muncie to attend his brother's funeral. An only sister who resides
somewhere in the southern portion of the State, failed to get here.
The two prisoners in jail on charges of murder have expressed a desire that
their trial shall take place at once. In accordance with that wish they jury
commissioners met yesterday afternoon and drew a new, double jury, and the
following gentlemen will be served today to appear in court Monday morning to be
tested as to their qualifications to serve as jurors in the case, at which time
the trial will begin: John T. KEEL, Sam'l SHOWLEY, Searing MARSH, Samuel BURCH,
D. N. DAGUE, Oliver BARR, Jonathan KERSHNER, Benjamin F. COLLINS, R. NEWELL, B.
F. PORTER, D. W. TRAVER, Samuel HOOBER, Noah HEETER, Alonzo KISTLER, John H.
PYLE, L. W. FELTS, Z. T. PRIEST, Samuel RUSSELL, Eli ROGERS, Martin STURGEON,
Isaac BLACKBURN, Samuel W. JULIAN, George W. GREGSON, Adam HUFFMAN. From the
above named gentlemen, twelve qualified jurors will be selected, if that number
can be found, who will try the case.
Very unexpectedly, a gentleman has been found in this county who can speak both
English and Italian very fluently and his service have been secured as an
interpreter in the very important cases to be tried. His name in John RICH and
lives in Liberty township with Samuel SHOWLEY. . . .
[Saturday, February 24, 1883]
IRVINE, BARRETT [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Schultz Drug Store
IRVINE, FLORENCE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: First National Bank
IRVINE, LUCILLE (SCHULTZ) [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Schultz Drug Store
IRVINE BOAT RENTAL [Lake Manitou]
Located S side of dam, later the site of Starkey's.
Operated by Clint Irvine.
Later Clint Irvine moved across the race and established a new fishing and boat
rental landing, while his former location was occupied by Charles Robertson.
Mrs. Sarah Katherine IRVINE, aged 69, who with her husband, Clinton IRVINE,
had operated the IRVINE LANDING at Lake Manitou for the past 28 years, died at
6:30 this morning.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, March 30, 1929]
IRWIN, CLINT [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Fairview
IRWIN, JACK [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Irwin are moving into the Dr. King property at the corner of
Madison and Nnth streets, where they will establish their studio of music in
connection with their home.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, September 8, 1910]
[Adv] THE WEAVER PIANO - - - - - Sold at most reasonable prices and favorable
terms. C. J. IRWIN, 808 Main Street, Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 2, 1913]
JACK IRWIN ON AIR
Jack Irwin, of Lima, Ohio, former resident of this city, is to broadcast from
WLW Cincinnati every morning at eight o'clock for the next ten days. Mr. Irwin's
first appearance on the air was Wednesday morning at which time he sang several
solos.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, October 31, 1928]
ON THE AIR
Rochester relatives have received word that Jack Irwin, of Lima, O., formerly of
this city, will broadcast a number of vocal solos Monday morning at seven
o'clock from WLW, Cincinnati, Ohio.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 5, 1929]
JACK IRWIN IS HEARD BY MANY HERE THIS MORNING
Many Rochester persons this morning heard Jack Irwin over radio station WLW at
Cincinnati, Ohio. He broadcasted at 8 o'clock. Mr. Irwin will be on the air
again this week over WLW at the same time at what is known as the devotional
hour. Mr. Irwin at the present is conducting the song service for an evangelist
in Cincinnati. This morning Mr. Irwin sang "Plains of Peace." The
reception was perfect this morning and those who listened to Mr. Irwin said his
voice was the best they had ever heard it.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, January 7, 1929]
ISAAC DRY GOODS STORE [Akron, Indiana]
Buelah T. Isaac engaged in the dry goods business in Akron but sold out in 1872.
[Jacob Whittenberger Family, Velma Bright, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
ISIS THEATRE [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA THEATRE SOLD
The Isis theatre at Kewanna, which has been operated for the past few years by
L. D. Howard, has been sold to John Tannehill of Knox who formerly was
superintendent of the schools there.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 5, 1920]
ISLAND PARK CAMPGROUND [Rochester Township]
Located SW corner old US-31 and Tippecanoe River.
Burned down in 1968.
IVEY, M. W. [Rochester, Indiana]
M. W. Ivey has received word that his grandson, Charles Robert Iveyof
Kendalville, has successfully pased examinations and will soon enter the United
States Military Academy at West Point. Charles is the son of Coach Ivey of the
Kendalville high school, a former Rochester boy.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 28, 1945]
IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE [Akron, Indiana]
WALTON LEAGUE CHAPTER IS ORGANIZED AT AKRON
A delegation of twelve members of the Rochester Izaak Walton league chapter went
to Akron Friday night where an Akron chapter of the sportsmen-conservationists'
league was organized. The meeting was in the Akron library. Harvey Arter was
chosen president of the chapter.
The purpose of this league is to stock the lakes, protect the farmers during
hunting season and save the vanishing out-of-doors.
Senator L. G. Graford, of South Bend, president of the Izaak Wakton League of
Indiana, was one of the main speakers of the evening together with Cal Johnson,
president of the South Bend Belt company and noted writer for out-door
magazines. The Akron chapter considered itself fortunate in having been able to
obtain these men. Other speakers were Andrew E. Bowden of Marion, Indiana, and
Grover Walters of Bremen, Indiana.
Nearby chapters, including Rochester, Mentone, Silver Lake and Tippecanoe, were
invoted to Akron.
This is the first chapter organized in Akron.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 3, 1926]
IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE [Rochester, Indiana]
Also See Lake Manitou Fish Hatcheries
__________
FORMING IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE CHAPTER HERE
B. F. Fordyce, traveling salesman of Indianapolis, is organizing an Izaak Walton
League chapter here, having secured the names of Dr. T. P. Cook, Joe Ewing, Dr.
H. W. Taylor, Rex Shobe, Charles Hendrick, N. O. Nelson, Selden Brown, John
Allison, Charles Babcock, J. L. Fordyce, A. L. Carter, W. L. Wilson, C. N.
Havens, Robert Miller and Fred Carr as prospective members to date.
The league's purpose is protection of game and streams, and membership fee,
which entitles a member to a magazine for a year, is $4.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 24, 1925]
MEETING SATURDAY TO FORM ANGLERS' SOCIETY
A public meeting to organize an Izaak Walton League chapter here will be held in
the court room Saturday night at 7:30 o'clock. Nearly forty sportsmen have
signed the membership roll to date, twenty-six on the first canvass and about
twelve recently.
The aims and purposes of the League, protection of game and streams, will be
explained at the meeting, January 9, by E. C. Bassett, field organizer; Maj. R.
B. Holderby, state organizer, and L. G. Bradford of South Bend, state president.
The state branch is opening a drive which it is hoped will culminate in bringing
membership to 10,000. There are 60 established chapters in the state.
A new chapter is being organized at Knox.
B. F. Fordyce of here has been active in forming the local chapter, which will
include foremost sportsmen and conservationists.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 7, 1926]
IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE CHAPTER FORMED HERE
With 39 charter members and 24 other persons present at the meeting, called to
order at 8 o'clock Saturday night in the circuit court room, the Rochester
chapter of the Izaak Walton League, of sportsmen and conservationists, was
organized, and officers elected. Several prominent officials of the order were
here and explained the aims and purposes of the League.
Byron F. Fordyce of near Lake Manitou was chairman of the meeting, and in view
of his activity in organizing the chapter he was chosen as president. Clel M.
Havens was chosen vice-president; Selden Brown was named secretary and Charles
F. Flagg was elected treasurer.
A board of directors was named, which included Walter House, Lewis Hunt, Tom
Emmons, Bert Bryant, Bert Hisey, Simon Bailey and Alf Carter.
E. C. Hassett of Chicago, Ill., a national officer, Major Holderby, state
organizer, State Senator Steele of Knox, president of the Knox chapter, and
Messrs Decker and Smith of Winamac were present and spoke.
Membership in the chapter was set at $4.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, January 12, 1926]
IZZARD, CHARLES W. [Rochester, Indiana]
CHARLES W. IZZARD (Biography)
To the trade Charles W. IZZARD is a familiar figure in this section of the
state. He was born in Wayne county in 1852 and became a resident of Fulton
county two years later. He grew up on a farm, but located in Rochester in 1883
and followed the painters trade for six years when he purchased a cigar factory
and has operated it successfully ever since, making a specialty of exclusive
brands for the trade. His cigars are pupular sellers because they have a wide
reputation of being fine goods. He married Miss Clarissa JONES nine years ago
and they have a foster daughter and own a pretty home on north Pontiac street.
Mr. Izzard is a tireless public enterpriser and an enthusiastic lodge man.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
IZZARD, FRED [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] WAR NEWS. If you want the city dailies during the war, leave your order
and have your peper delivered. Sunday papers a specialty. Magazines and
periodicals of all kinds. All brands of home made cigars. - - - FRED IZZARD, in
rear of Holman's Shoe Store.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 6, 1898]
IZZARD POOL ROOM [Rochester, Indiana]
BUYS THE IZZARD POOL ROOM
A deal was made Thursday whereby Ike Emmons becomes owner of the pool hall owned
by Charley Izzard. Mr. Emmons has already taken possession and will continue the
business just as it has been run. Mr. Izzard did not dispose of his cigar
factory and will move it to a new location at an early date.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 5, 1919]
IZZARD'S WIZZARD SOAP [Rochester, Indiana]
HOME TOWN TALES
By "Pioneer"
On East Sixth street, when all Rochester lighted their homes and streets with
coal oil, "IZZARD'S WIZZARD SOAP" was manufactured.
The factory was not a gigantic concern, of course, but nevertheless it was built
on hope and promise - for every family needed SOAP, and all America had to be
supplied - by someone.
Lack of capital, even at that early day - regardless of need, retarded an
advertising campaign to create a desire for "IZZARD'S WIZZARD SOAP"
above all.
In a very small way the factory existed for a year or two. Wash machines, not
yet produced by inventive genius, the wash board, a strong back, swollen and
aching hands, produced the etching of "old age" on the faces and
action of every woman of "thirty."
From the days of "IZZARD'S WIZZARD SOAP" a product that had a perfect
right to survive through all these years, and today be America's favorite,
"in bar, flake or powder," we have traveled far in lightening Mother's
weekly wash day burden. Maybe "IZZARD'S WIZZARD SOAP" had its full
part in paving the way from drudgery to the pleasures of operating the modern
electric washing machine and remove all the blue out of Monday.
Of all the towns in the United States that has in every way tried to forge to
the front, the citizenship of little old Rochester, past and present, has
confined in musty chests and boxes, dusty and yellow with age - but worthless -
more than Five Million Dollars in stocks and bonds - including "IZZARD'S
WIZZARD SOAP" stock.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 19, 1935]
FULTON COUNTY, INDIANA
HANDBOOK
J
J.N.
[NOTE: He seemed to be an eccentric, perhaps mentally off, who traveled this
part of the United States stirring up trouble, making speeches that were not
wanted, and was nicknamed "The Immortal J.N." in numerous newspaper
items -- WCT]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Immortal J.N. is not dead again by a whole lot. He is about as well as ever
and touring the country although considerably enfeebled with age and poor
health.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 7, 1904]
NEWS OF THE DAY
A special from Upper Sandusky, Ohio, says Jacob Newman Free, known the country
over as "J.N.," is seriously sick and the chances are that he will
never recover. He was born in Chamberburg, Pa., May 22, 1828, and is
consequently nearly seventy-six years old.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 12, 1904]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Since being placed in an asylum for the insane, the "immortal J. N."
says he is glad that the people have discovered that he is insane. He says he
has known it for fifty years, but was never taken to an asylum. He says now that
he is in an asylum he will proceed to talk from morning to night, and when the
time is ripe for it he will remove the pressure.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 5, 1906]
JACKSON, CHARLES [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Charles Jackson, real estate agent and secretary of the Indiana Farmers'
Building and Loan association and a valued citizen of Rochester was born in
Sandusky county, Ohio, Feb. 16, 1830. He was reared on the farm, educated
sparingly in the common schools and was engaged in active farming till forty
years old. In March, 1870, he removed to Fulton county and took up the business
of merchandising in Rochester. He followed this ten years, when he closed up
business and later on began dealing in machinery. One year later he engaged in
the real estate and insurance business, which business he is at present
prosecuting. He prosecutes claims for pensioners and has been instrumental in
making many an old comrade's heart glad. Four years ago he aided in bringing
into existence the Indiana Farmers' Building and Loan association, of which he
is secretary and director. In politics Mr. Jackson is a republican; voted for
John C. Fremont for president. He was a candidate for county clerk of Fulton
some years ago and the strong vote he received was a handsome compliment to his
integrity. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow and is secretary of the local lodge.
Mr. Jackson was married in Sandusky county, Ohio, Dec. 29, 1853, to Catherine
Ernsperger, daugher of Christopher Ernsperger, Ohio pioneers of Maryland birth.
Mr. Ernsperger died in Rochester in 1877, aged sixty-nine. His wife was Julia A.
Ensminger, born July, 1812, and now living in Rochester. Mr. Jackson is the
father of Alma L., Anna A.,wife of Frank Huffman, of Rochester, secretary of
Rochester bridge comany; Frank A, Portland, Ore., general superintendent
Portland gas company, married Lillie M. Weed. Charles Jackson is a son of
Archibald C. Jackson, born in New York, 1794, died 1865. The paternal grandsire
of our subject was Alexander Jackson, a soldier of the war of 1812. Archibald C.
Jackson married Amanda Olds. Her children were: Nancy M., deceased, married
William Gaskill; Julia A., widow of Loren Clark; Caroline, widow of E. Beaghler,
Sandusky county, Ohio; Esther, deceased, wife of T. G. McIntyre; Zeno, deceased;
Charles, Martin, deceased; William Clyde, manufacturer, of Hughes Shears
company; David H., Oakland, Cal., a successful miner, locating for eastern
capitalists; Mary, died young; Andrew, with John and James Dobbs, Philadelphia,
Pa. Charles Jackson is an active member of the Methodist church.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 89-90]
JACKSON, CARL C. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Innerspring Mattress Co.
JACKSON, CHARLES [Rochester, Indiana]
SOME OLD, FAMILIAR NAMES
By Charles Jackson
On the sixteenth day of the shortest month of the year, 1830, while the chilling
winds were whistling around the old stick chimney and rattling the bare, brown
branches of the trees against the icy windows of the primitive log cabin in the
forest, in the state of Ohio, the writer of this short sketch was born.
The country was heavily timbered with hickory, walnut, oak, ash, elm and other
varieties. The walnut timber burned, would today sell for more than the farm.
The soil was rich, black sandy loam, subsoil of clay. When once cleared, was
very productive. A small stream of water ran through the farm. No damage from
overflow, but always furnished water for stock. Sometimes, in the spring, fish
would work their way up from Sandusky Bay, when the boys would have good times
trying to catch them. After years of labor the land was cleared and brought
under cultivation, the log house replaced with frame, with conveniences which
then was thought to be commodious, but now would not be so considered. My
father's family consisted of eleven children, six boys, five girls. Educational
privileges were very meagre. No need of truant officer to compel children to
attend school. We were always glad to have the opportunity to go to school, for
then there was public money for only three months in the year. When we had more
than that, schooling was paid for by subscription. A well qualified lady teacher
would get 75 cents to $1.50 per week, and board around with the pupils. Many of
the children walked two and three miles to school, part of the way through the
forest.
While yet a youth, a stage was run along the road where we lived, and my
father's place was where the stage driver would change horses. I recall the fact
of seeing, passing along this road, a wagon on which a log cabin was built,
covered with boards, and inside the house was a barrel of cider and a man ready
to give a drink to those they met. Outside, the log house was covered with coon
skins. The propelling power was three yoke of oxen. That was in 1840, and well
known by all old citizens as the Harrison campaign. No railroad, telegraph or
'phones had been thought of at that time. A few years later the Mad River
railroad was built from Portland (now Sandusky City) to Cincinnati, cross ties
and wooden rails, with iron very little larger than wagon tire. No infrequent
thing for the iron to loosen at the end and turn up through the car. In 1846 the
roadbed was changed and I was employed to hew timber for some culverts. In
making the change T-rails were substituted for the flat rail. In the year 1847
the first telegraph was erected in Northern Ohio. I also helped to erect poles
and wire for fourteen miles.
After improving all the school privileges, commencing in the log school house,
with slab seats, punchen floor, and six-foot fire place, to a few years later,
the frame building erectred on one corner of my father's farm, where we had four
months' school, with teachers graduated from Oberlin College, whose wages were
$16.00 for twenty-six days, and was considered good for that time. 1849 was my
last school attendance, 1851 was employed to teach school for three months at
$13.00 for twenty-six days, and board. The building was a log, with shake roof,
held on by weight-poles. Large fire place, for stoves or furnaces were not yet
made for such purposes. The house was located on a creek which ran through marsh
and into Sandusky Bay. In this marsh was the home of thousands of muskrats, and
on nice, warm days when the marsh was frozen, all my large pupils, boys and
girls, would be out spearing rats. Therefore, when they came to school again, it
was in evidence we need spend no money for perfume. In turning back to my
boyhood, will say, in connection with poor school privileges, that Sunday
schools and church services were held in the log school house or private
dwellings. My father's house was frequently used for church, and a home for the
circuit preacher. Also Mr. Bailey's house was a welcome place for the preacher
and other friends. Mr. Bailey, being of English birth, was liberal and
hospitable in providing comforts for the preacher and his beast, in doing so, he
built an addition to his shed. On the day the shed was raised, on questioning
him as to what use the addition would be, he always gave the ready reply, in
true Englisn, that 'twas "a hell for the preacher's 'orse."
It was during my second school that I formed the acquaintance of the lady who
afterwards become my wife. Dec. 29, 1853, we were married, and at once commenced
housekeeping in a log house in a sparsely settled neighborhood, earning money to
buy our first cook stove by teaching writing class. Cupboard I made from dry
goods boxes. Our furniture was all hauled in one wagon-box load. And yet we got
along, as we had some wheat and plenty of corn. About three years from the time
of commencing in this way, my father and mother moved from the old home farm,
when we moved here, renting for two years, then buying the farm, continuing with
fair success. Was seven times elected township clerk, and twice township
assessor. I also belonged to he National Guards when the regiment was called out
for service. I responded with others. The second day, while in camp at Fremont,
Ohio, Colonel Hains learned that I was assessor for our township. Said we must
have taxes, and as I had worked two days before the call, that I would have to
go home. Being then subject to orders, I went home, and the boys of my company
and regiment went to Arlington Heights, near Washington, D.C., and returned in
one hundred and twenty days, one dying from my company in that time. When I
failed to get to go, I then hired a man that did go, paying him myself. My
grandfather served in Revolutionary war, two brothers in the civil war.
I will never forget the funeral of General James B. McPherson, who was killed
somewhere south, and brought to Clyde, Ohio, the home of his birth, for burial.
It was a hot, dry, dusty time, and thousands of soldiers in attendance at the
burial.
Having an opportunity to sell the farm for what was then thought a big price, we
did sell, and in March,1870, moved to Rochester, to find a town whose streets
had a plenteous growth of dog fennel, cows, horses and hogs roamed at will. The
only brick buildings were the old court house and the store room of Jesse
Shields, now occupied by the Indiana Bank and Trust Company. Among the dealers
then was Fred Fromm, V. Zimmerman, Gould Brothers, Richter, Feder &
Silberberg, J. Dawson, Lyon & Kendrick, Wile, Allman Brothers, F. B.
Ernsperger and many ohers. On coming here I formed a partnership with F. B.
Ernsperger and sold goods for ten years. The Baptist people owned and held
services in the rooms now occupied by Zimmerman's undertaking and furniture
store. The M. E. people owned the room where C. Hoover has his furniture and
undertaking business. Presbyterians occupied same lot as now.
There was a flouring mill located on North Main street, owned by Mr. Stock, and
farther south near the old race, William Wallace had a flouring mill, but
misfortune soon came to the latter by being consumed by fire. Later the big
mill, at north end, was burned. I think, at the time, was owned by Leiter &
Hickman. Among the prominent citizens then living here, that have passed away,
are: Alvin Robbins and wife; William Sturgeon and wife; A. K. Plank and wife; D.
W. Lyon and wife; B. S. Lyon and wife; C. F. Harter and wife; C. J. Stradley;
Newt. Rannells and wife; Dr. V. Gould and wife; Dr. A. H. Robbins; Clark Hickman
and wife; Wm. Wallace and wife; David Barb and wife; Jesse Shields and wife, and
many others that I do not just now call to mind.
The names of the pastors who have served the M.E. Church congregations: T. C.
Stringer, 1869 to 1871; P. S. Cook, 1871 to 1872; Clark Skinner, 1872 to 1874;
R. D. Utter, 1874 to 1875; J. A. Clearwaters, 1875 to 1877; F. M. Rule, 1877 to
1880; R. D. Utter, 1880 to 1883; J. C. Reed 1883 to 1886; J. H. Wilson, 1886 to
1890; H. A. Tucker, 1890 to 1892; A. T. Briggs, 1892 to 1894; C. A. Brook, 1894
to 1897; L. C. Buckels, 1897 to 1900; W. F. Switzer, 1900 to 1907; J. G.
Campbell, present pastor.
Thirty-five or forty years ago, the prevailing amusements indulged in at evening
socials, were songs, speeches, charades and social chat. No cards. I remember,
at a wedding anniversary, the bride was presented with a tin sunbonnet, made for
the occasion which created much merriment. The couple are living in Rochster
yet, and I can't say whether the bonnet is worn out or not.
On Dec. 29,1873, occurred at the home of the writer, our twentieth wedding
anniversary, and to show the change in the neighbors, then and now, will give
the names of the persons present.
Mr. and Mrs. Clark Skinner Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Smith
" " " John Taylor " " " Enoch Sturgeon
" " " E. E. Cowgill " " " A. C. Elliott
" " " Isaiah Conner " " " T. M. Bitters
" " " H. B. Boswell " " " C. Ernsperger
" " " C. C. Wolf " " " J. W. Elam
" " " Eli Russell " " " Wm. Ashton
" " " C. Hector " " " A. V. House
" " " F. B. Ernsperger " " " John W. Davis
Dr. " " William Hill " " " J. M. Reiter
Mr. " " E. P. Copeland " " " N. L. Lord
" " " Samuel Heffley " " " M. L. Essick
" " " F. K. Kendrick " " " H. S. Drake
" " " Samuel Keely " " " E. Kirtland
" " " Thos. Newhouse " " " Levi Mercer
" " " J. Q. Neal Mr. J. W. Williams
" " " K. G. Shryock " Chas. H. Berry
" " " A. J. Davidson " H. B. Ernsperger
In all, 69 present as guests, 47of whom are now dead.
[Marguerite L. Miller, Home Folks, Vol. I, 1910, pp. 62-66]
JACKSON, FRED & GUS W. [Rochester, Indiana]
WILL OPEN BIG STORE
After spending several days here looking over the field, two Fremont, Ohio men,
Fred Jackson and Gus. W. Jackson, have decided to open a large notion and dry
goods store here and with this end in view have leased the Ananias Baker room
west of the court house.
The two gentlemen are merchants of experience, and now conduct a store at
Fremont, the stock of which they will move here. Their intention is to carry a
stock of drygoods, notions, and novelties of all kinds. They expect to open the
store about April 1st.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 19, 1906]
JACKSON, JOSEPH [Richland Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Joseph Jackson, born May 12, 1827, in Wayne County, Ind.; was married in his
native county, September 26, 1850, to Sarah J. Crum, born April 11, 1833. Their
children are Theodore, born July 31, 1851, deceased May 7, 1855; John T., born
December 12, 1853; Charles E., born February 4, 1857; Cassius M., born March 10,
1859; Martha L., born August 1, 1862; Elmer E., born June 23, 1866; and Mark S.,
born February 23, 1869. His father, Thomas Jackson, was a native of Virginia,
born June 2, 1801. He married Nancy Brown, born in 1803. His wife's father was
John Crum, born in Ohio October 5, 1800. He married Sarah Lane.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 52]
JACOBS, TOM N. [Rochester, Indiana]
DIRECTS BIG DREDGING WORK
Tom N. Jacobs, a former Rochester boy, who for ten years has been in St. Louis
where he has made good, has returned for a few days and was around to see old
friends this morning.
Mr. Jacobs, who is a civil engineer, has charge of the reclaiming of 150 square
miles near East St. Louis, Ill., the work being done by a mammoth electric
dredge. The Mississippi river has filled in its bed with sand at that place,
which is now being cleaned out.
The work has been going on for four years, and Mr. Jacobs estimates that ten
years will complete the job.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 17, 1913]
JACOBS HARNESS & SADDLE SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Harness and Saddle Shop, in Rochester, opposite A. F. Smith & Bro's . store.
J. Jacobs.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 25, 1858]
Take Notice. I have discontinued the Harness-making business at the old stand,
and intend closing up my business at the earliest possible moment. . . Call at
my residence, two doors north of Long's Shoe Shop, opposite the Court House.
Junkin Jacobs.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 19, 1859]
By reference to the advertisement of Mr. Jacobs, in today's paper, it will be
seen that he has reopened his Saddle and Harness Shop, and will always be on
hand for a trade or sell. Give him a call.
--- J. Jacobs has re-opened his Saddle and Harness Shop, in the building two
doors north of the Elam House.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 18, 1860]
JACOBS & SCHWARTZ [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - - Boots and Shoes at prices so low they are absolutely OUT OF SIGHT.
Remember the Place - The Great Forced Sale of Boots and Shoes. Main St. 2 doors
north of Arlington Hotel, JACOBS & SCHWARTZ.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, October 28, 1891]
JAGGER, KENNY [Rochester, Indiana]
PRILL AND JAGGER PLEAD GUILTY TO THEFT CHARGE
Valparaiso, Ind., Mar. 29. (INS) - Claude Prill, 23, and Kenneth Jagger, 21, who
pleaded guilty in connection with the theft of 25 suits of clothing and 52 pairs
of pants from the local Pennsylvania railroad freight house, were sentenced to
serve 1 to 10 years at state reformatory by Judge Mark Rockwell, of Porter
county Superior court, late yesterday.
Upon recommendation of railroad police, the sentences were suspended and the men
were paroled to a manufacturer of Rochester, Ind.
Prill, who was employed at the freight house, planned the robbery according to
police. Jagger, who was an organist at a local tavern, was charged with being an
accessory after the fact. Most of the loot was found in a trailer owned by
Jagger.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 29, 1940]
__________
KENNY JAGGER AND HIS COLONIAL HOTEL INSPIRATION
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
Kenny Jagger's mother, Mary Gladys, had not been able to fulfill a desire to
play the organ, but she was determined that her firstborn son would become a
musician. With husband Ray's approval, she installed a baby grand piano in their
home at 621 Jefferson Street, called the local piano teacher, bachelor Ben
Brandenburg, and started Kenny off at the age of eight.
That was 1926. How did Kenny take to the lessons? Rather well, I'd say. Here it
is. 73 years later, and he's now in his 61st season as a successful professional
musician.
Kenny just turned 80 and although his hair is thinning and white, and his step
may be a beat slower, he still has the handsome look and the dignified,
ingratiating personality that made him a favorite as pianist and organist in
supper clubs, ballrooms, hotels and lounges throughout much of the eastern
United States for six decades. A rich amount of talent has had something to do
with it, too.
Right now he's in a fourth year at Lutz Steakhouse, between Westfield and
Noblesville on State Road 32, where he plays piano from 6-9, o'clock Wednesday
and Thursday nights in the cafe's candlelit dining room.
Kenny's been well-known on the Indianapolis area entertainment scene for many
years. He performed seven years at the Indianapolis Athletic Club, flve years at
the Columbia Club, four years at Highland Country Club, two years at the Shrine
Club and on shorter occasions at numerous other capital establishments.
Earlier in his career, Wiscorsin was a favorite stop; in fact, he says, he
played in more cities in that state than in any other. These included Racine,
where he met his wife, Flo; Madison, Ashland, Wausau, Rhinelander, Stevens
Point, Eau Claire and Milwaukee, where he shared a bill with the famed Mills
Brothers.
It's not just in the Midwest that Jagger has displayed his musical abilities.
For six months in 1949 he was the featured attraction at New York City's midtown
Manhattan Sheraton hotel and also did a WNEW radio show five nights a week.
During a seven-year period at that time he was under contract to the prestigious
Music Corporation of' America and was booked at such spots as Baton Rouge, La.,
Rochester and Buffalo in New York, Annapolis, Md., and Dayton, O.
Kenny featured Hammond organ and piano in his performances, adding the organ to
give his piano an orchestral accompaniment. The two instruments could be played
separately or together, creating a unique as well as pleasing sound.
"Not many organ gigs available now, though," he laments.
I've known Jagger many years and most recently was in touch with him when he
responded to a column of mine about the 1936 appearance at Lake Manitou of the
incomparable singer, Lena Horne, with the Nobel Sissle dance band. Thus arrived
this opportunity to share his memories and his own distinguished career.
Jagger's recollections of Lena and the Sissle band are vivid, for he was a
teen-age employee of the Colonial Hotel at the time. He worked three summers
there as waiter, busboy, ticket taker and change boy for slot machines. He and
RHS buddies Bob Taylor, Jim Zimmerman, Deverle Becker and Jim Williams piled
into his 1923 Model T Ford flivver for the rides out to the lake.
Kenny says Sissle's band spent nearly a month playing at the Colonial, instead
of just a one-night stand. Sissle, an Indianapolis native, was recovering from
auto accident injuries and couldn't be with the band at nights. He often was
seen during the day being rowed about the lake, propped up on pillows.
Lena was only 18 years old and fronted the band in Nobel's absence,
"dancing and strutting like only Lena could," recalls Kenny. "She
was and is to this late date in my life the most magnetic personality I've ever
seen."
Sissle's was one of the earliest popular black dance bands and it resonates in
Jagger's memory as "a pretty band of only 10 pieces or so with the most
gentlemanly members I've ever seen, no loud talking or loud laughing ever and no
smoking or drinking liquor on the stand. Sissle insisted that his men show white
people of that segregated time that black men could be as honorable, dignified
and gentlemanly as anybody. While here, Kenny recalls. band members were housed
at Hertha Graeber's rooming house in the 700 block [716] of Madison Street. Lena
had rejected the suggestion of quarters at the Cole Brothers circus grounds.
considering it demeaning. Sidney Bechet, the great jazz saxophonist, was
featured in the band's shows that also included the beautiful Lena, who's still
a knockout today at age 81.
Jagger was busy with his piano lessons all this time, practicing classical music
and playing the Grace Methodist Church pipe organ occasionally. But working
around the bandsmen at the Colonial opened his eyes to the glamour, exciting
travel and satisfaction of a popular music career. He was hooked, and started
learning popular tunes.
Graduating from RHS in 1937, Kenny spent a year studying theater and radio organ
at the Sherwood Music School in Chicago and then in the summer of 1938, at the
age of 19, launched his professional career at the basement Rathskeller
restaurant of the Colonial. Two patron's at Lutz's told him not long ago they
heard him that first summer of his career and have followed him ever since.
Kenny's wife, Flo, died in 1994 but he still lives in the family home at
Indianapolis where the couple retired after many years on the road and raised
their two children. Daughter Jackie has her doctorate and is a professor, at
Ball State University and co-host of its Learning Center. Son John is the
tourism director for real estate development at Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Brother Dale
and wife also live in the Indianapolis area.
Age has made Kenny forego one of his passions: motorcycles. For 34 years Jagger
rode his BMW bike more than 300,000 miles in the U.S. and Canada without mishap.
But music has been his life, his inspiration and his comfort; he won't give that
up as long as he's able to play.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 12, 1999]
JAGGER MARKET [Rochester, Indiana]
RAY JAGGER PURCHASES CARL SANDERS MARKET
Ray Jagger has purchased the meat market and grocery at 526 North Main street of
Carl Sanders and has taken possession. The shop in the future will be operated
under the name of the Jagger Market.
Mr. Jagger for fourteen years was the manager of the Schlosser Brothers cream
station in this city and for the past six months has been a driver for the
Daniels Brothers meat packing house of Columbia City.
Mr. Jagger stated that he plans to improve the shop in the near future. He has
installed his own delivery system. Mr. Sanders will continue in the livestock
business.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 1, 1937]
JAQUES, F. M. [Rochester Indiana]
[Adv] INTRODUCTORY! I have come to Rochester to do a first-class business and
this is my formal bow to the people of Rochester and Fulton County. I have
purchased the Walters' Grocery - - - F. M. JAQUES. P.S. Special Low Prices on
SHOES to close them out.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 1, 1896]
JAMESON, TOMMY [Wagoners Station]
TOMMY JAMESON MURDERED??
For several years Tommy JAMESON conducted a general store at Wagoners, a station
on the I. P. & C. R.R., where it crosses the county line between this and
Miami counties. He came to Wagoners several years ago and purchased a stock of
goods from his uncle, Thomas HOLCOMBE, and, being a whole-souled, jolly fellow,
he made friends and gained customers very rapidly, and from every indication,
was making plenty of money. He increased his stock of goods until he had an
immense stock for a country store, and the people in the vicinity of Wagoners
had as good a trading point as either Macy or Rochester.
Everything glided along smoothly until about one year ago, when Mrs. GOULD (for
whom Mr. Jameson was acting as agent) returned from the West, and discovered
much of the valuable timber removed from her real estate and for which she
claimed Jameson had never turned over to her any money. A settlement could not
be reached and the public was surprised to hear of Tommy's arrest for
embezzlement. Through the kindness of friends, a bond was secured for his
appearance, but through some technicality in the preparation of the complaint,
the case was dismissed and the defendant re-arrested.
This time it was more difficult to secure bondsmen, and for several days there
seemed to be no other alternative for him but to go to jail, but friends again
came to his rescue, and he was released from the custody of the sheriff. This
second case was dismissed in the Fulton circuit court in order to bring an
action in Miami county, where he lived at the time the crime was alleged to have
been committed.
Being released here, before the officials of Miami county had a chance to arrest
him, he left for parts unknown, and his whereabouts remained a mystery until
last week, when the Indianapolis papers published an account of the finding of a
dead body one hundred miles from Duluth, Minnesota, and from papers found on the
body of the dead stranger, it was ascertained that his relatives lived in
Indianapolis, and that he had formerly resided in Miami county.
The dead man had been living at Duluth, Minnesota, and was known by the name of
O. A. GRAY, and he had given his residence as Ash street, Indianapolis.
It was soon learned that Gray was not the young man's name, and from the
description it was ascertained that it was the son of T. H. JAMESON, of 338 Ash
street.
Upon investigation by his relatives, it was found that the report was correct,
and that the body when discovered was lying in the woods in the snow.
Tommy Jameson left his father's residence about four months ago, and, after
drawing $3,000 at a bank in Peru, he went to Duluth, where he "fell
in" with a fellow, who, from letters received by Tommy's father, he feared
was a dangerous man.
The following article from Saturday's Indianapolis News, confirms the statement
that it was our Tommy, and that his murderer is now in jail. It says:
The man SUTTON, who accompanied Thomas H. JAMESON from Duluth to the pine
regions, is in jail at Duluth, under charge of killing and robbing his
companion. He returned from the expedition alone, representing that Mr. Jameson
would be back in a day or two. When the latter did not appear, suspicion began
to thicken and the arrest was made. The discovery of the body, with the marks of
several fatal stabs upon it, make an ugly case against Sutton. The deeds for
certain lands and other valuable papers belonging to Mr. Jameson were left at
Duluth in charge of a friend, and will be forwarded to his father in this city.
There is, therefore, no doubt that this man, who claimed to be his friend,
murdered Tommy and then robbed him, for, in his letter to his father, he had
stated that he intended to go up into the pineries and invest in some timber
land. The last year of his life was one fraught with many troubles and vexations
and to close up such a career, it seems hard that it had to be done by meeting
death at the hands of an assassin in a lonely forest, and far from home.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 12, 1887]
JAMISON ELECTRIC SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
M. O. JAMISON SELLS AGENCY
M. O. Jamison, for several years proprietor of the Electric Shop here and lately
the Willard Storage Battery agent, has sold his agency to Parry Young of Akron,
who has had many years of experience in this line.
Mr. Young is the son of J. F. Young and the brother of H. G. Young, both of the
Central Lumber Co. of this city. Mr. Jamison has sold out his business here
because he has bought a similar one in Goshen, his former home, and wishes to
live near relatives. He will leave in two weeks. Besides the storage battery
work, Mr. Young will do house wiring and other electric fixture work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 10, 1916]
JARRETT, WADE [Rochester, Indiana]
C. H. HASKETT BUILDING SOLD TO WADE JARRETT
Announcement was made today that Carlton H. Haskett has recently sold his
building at 124 East Eighth Street which houses Haskett and Jones Insurance
Agency and the Fulton County Auto License Branch to Wade Jarrett, 116 West
Twelfth street, this city. Jarrett is district manager of the Schultz Bros.
Variety Stores.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, October 7, 1941]
WADE JARRETT BUILDING LEASED BY MOOSE LODGE
At a meeting held this afternoon by the building committee of the local Manitou
chapter of the Moose lodge, it was decided to lease from Wade Jarrett his
building at 124 East Eighth street, now occpied by Haskett and Jones Insurance
Agency and the Fulton County Auto License Branch, for use as new lodge
clubrooms.
Tom Marshall, governor of the local lodge, stated that remodeling will begin on
the building as soon as possible. The rooms are to be redecorated, and will take
care of the rapidly-expanding Moose membership list, largest in the lodge's
history.
Members are still being enrolled in the lodge, Marshall said, and the acquiring
of new clubrooms is expected to greatly increase our present enrollment.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, October 14, 1941]
BUYS A. & P. BUILDING
Wade Jarrette, of this city, former manager of the Schultz Variety store, today
purchased the A. & P. store two-story brick building in the 700 block on
Main street of A. L. Deniston, of this city. The first floor of the building is
occupied by the A. & P. grocery and the second floor is composed of
apartments. No change in tenancy of the building is contemplated, it was stated.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, March 16, 1942]
JAYCEE PARK [Rochester, Indiana]
Located SW corner 12th & Monroe, since 1964.
Former location of Columbia School.
JEAN'S GIFT SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] We Wish To Announce, that we have purchased Jane's Gift Shop - Times
Theatre building - and will operate under the name of JEAN'S GIFT SHOP. Our
potographic department will be open Friday afternoons as in the past. JEAN and
WENDELL TOMBAUGH.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, October 1, 1945]
JEFFERIES, FRANK [Rochester/South Bend, Indiana]
FORMER LOCAL MAN IN VICE-PRESIDENTIAL RACE
Frank Jefferies of South Bend, former resident of Rochester and at one time
circulation manager of the old Sentinel, is a candidate for vice-president of
the United States on the Greenback party, it was revealed here today.
Jefferies, reared on a farm in Newcastle township, is the brother of Ancil
Jefferies, who resides on a farm south of this city near Macy.
The Greenbackpart, at one time the Populist party, claims 500,000 followers in
the United States and has its headquarters at Indianapolis.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, July 25, 1944]
JEFFERIES, JACK
See Gross & Jefferies
See Thirty-One Cafe
JEFFERSON, TOMMY [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Ellsworth, Tommy
See: Hotels - Arlington
See: Hotels - Jefferson
JEFFERSON & COMPANY [Rochester, Indiana]
Located 1014 Main.
Clarence F. Hill sold his business at that address to Jefferson & Company in
1947.
JENKINS, FRANK [Rochester, Indiana]
FRANK JENKINS (Biography)
Frank JENKINS was born in Ohio 30 years ago and came to Wabash county a year
later, with his parents. He grew up on a farm but entered the grocery business
as a salesman ten years ago and followed it, wholesale and retail, ever since.
He married Miss Eliza BRIGHT, of Wabash, and they have three children, a son and
two daughters, viz; Letha, Don and Von [JENKINS], the two latter being twins.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
JENNENS, ALBERT [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Jennens Auto Sales
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter Concerning Albert Jennens)
JENNENS, LOTTIE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Wile Department Store
JENNENS AUTO SALES [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] GRAND OPENING of De Soto and Plymouth dealership in Rochester. Saturday,
March 16th. Flowers for the ladies - Gifts for the children. Largest and most
complete display of De Soto and Plymouth cars ever shown in this city! JENNENS
AUTO SALES, 606 Main St., Phone 524.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, March 14, 1940]
JENNINGS MOTORS [Rochester, Indiana]
FORD AGENCY OPENED BY VERN JENNINGS
A new Ford agency and general auto repair garage will be opened Tuesday in the
business building at 617 North Main street by Vern Jennings. The agency, which
will operate under the name Jennings Motors, will carry a complete line of
Fords, Lincolns, Mercurys and Ford trucks and tractors just as soon as the
factories resume manufacture of these pasenger cars.
Mr. Jennings, who has had years of experience in the automotive field, already
has a Ford truck on display and is carrying a complete assortment of parts for
Ford lines as well as other popular make autos. The new firm also operates a
service and tow truck.
Mr. Jennings and family, who came here from San Francisco, Calif., hope to soon
establish their permanent residence at Lake Manitou. One son is now serving in
the U. S. Navy and his other son, Bob, will reside in Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 31, 1944]
JENNINGS MOTORS BUY BUILDING AT 617 MAIN
Verne Jennings of the Jennings Motors, 617 Main street today announced the
purchase by his company of the building which they now occupy, from Mrs. Wilma
Brainerd of Goshen. Possession was taken today.
Along with the announcement, Mr. Jennings stated that effective Dec. 1, his
company would take possession, under lease, of the property at Main and Sixth
Sts., now occupied by the Bashore Feed Store, and that the Ford sales and
service departments would occupy that building. Plans, he said, called for a
complete transfer to the new location by Jan. 1. The building formerly occupied
by the Ford agency, under the management of the late Charles Dyche, was built
especially for sales and service of Ford cars, and is ideally planned for that
purpose.
Further plans, Jennings said, include the establishment of a modern paint and
body shop in the rear of the garage building now occupied by his company, while
the front space will be leased to another concern, with complete announcements
later.
The Bashore store will move Dec. 1 to their new building at 415-19 Main street,
which has just been completed.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, November 28, 1945]
JESSEN, J. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
LOCAL NEWS
The first issue of the Macy Monitor under the editorial management of Carl
Jessen is out and it is a great improvement on its recent news features. The
first article on the first page is a burglary writeup and it starts out like
this: "Wednesday night, or early Thursday morning, as Macy peacefully
slumbered and the moon bathed mother earth with its silvery rays, there was a
crash, a falling of broken glass, and burglars gained entrance to Cloud
Brothers' large store through the front window." Carl is evidently playing
for both the parquet and the gallery. And he'll get them too if he can costume
his burglary and other sensations so as to blend them with the peaceful picture
of mother earth slumbering in a bath of the silvery rays of the moon.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 17, 1903]
NEWS OF THE DAY
There is a rumor afloat that Carl Jessen has sold the Macy Monitor to M. Lew
Enyart, and that D.O. Hoffman will quit the Leader at Fulton and take charge of
the Monitor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 8, 1903]
NEWS OF THE DAY
J. Carl Jessen, who has held the position of local editor on the Evening
SENTINEL for more than a year, has retired in order to give more of his time to
the College course he commenced some time ago. He has been trustworthy and
energetic in his reportorial work and will continue in some special lines for
the paper.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, November 14, 1904]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Carl Jessen who has been connected with the SENTINEL for nearly two years as a
news and ad writer, was called to Indianapolis yesterday and offered a fine
position on the repertorial force of the Star. Somehow the SENTINEL boys all go
up to fine positions which is a little hard on this paper but is "the
making" of them. This makes the third man to leave the SENTINEL for high
salaried places on leading publications within the past eighteen months.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 16, 1905]
WILL OPEN NEW THEATRE
Workmen commenced this morning re-modeling the Wile room on Main street,
formerly occupied by E. C. Draper, the jeweler, and it will be converted into a
pretty motion picture theatre. This new place of amusement is being put in by
Carl Jessen who has had charge of the Manitou theatre for the past two months.
The front of the theatre will be something new for Rochester, built on the plans
used by the Orphean theatre on State street, Chicago. The house will be supplied
with a new underwriters' model Edison Kintiscope, the most expensive and
successful picture machine on the market, which produces pictures without
flicker or jumping. The film service for this theatre -- The New Colonial, the
beautiful -- will be best. Arrangements have been made whereby films will be
furnished to this house direct from the factory. All the new pictures will be
shown here as soon as copyrights are released.
The opening date has not as yet been fixed but will probably occur sometime next
week. At this there will be a great treat given Rochester people.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 22, 1908]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Miss Iva Etta Sullivan, Librarian of Rochester Public Library was awarded the
prize for suggesting the best name for the new Main Street theatre, her
suggestion being "Kai Gee," (pronounced K.G.) Chinese meaning awful
good. There were four hundred and ninety-two people suggested names, in all
there being one hundred and eighteen different ones.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 1, 1908]
EDITOR JESSEN, NOW
The Peoples' Press of Golden, Col., contains the following item of interest to
Rochester readers and indicates another change in the kaladiscopic career Carl
Jessen, late of K.G. fame. "J. C. Jessen, of the Hoosier state, is behind
the stub pen in the editor's chair of the Peoples' Press and proposes to give
the people of Golden and Jefferson county a live up-to-date newspaper, one that
will please our patrons. We bespeak for him the good will and hearty
co-operation of all."
The paper shows the work of Mr. Jessen, and is a newsy and interesting sheet.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 22, 1909]
KEWANNA HERALD SOLD
A deal was closed Monday by which the Kewanna Herald becomes the property of the
Van Trump Brothers, of the SENTINEL, and J. Carl Jessen, now of Denver, Colo.
For the past twelve years the Herald has been published by Frank P. Gould, and
during his management the paper has grown from a rather "weak sister"
into one of the best country newspaper properties in the state. The plant is
well equipped cylinder and job presses and gasoline power, and has a prosperous
business. Mr. Jessen will return at once from Denver and assume the management
of the paper. Mr. Gould will retain control of the business until June first,
and will then take up his residence in the state of Wyoming where he becomes
business manager of several newspaper properties owned by one concern. Mr. Gould
has made many friends during his business career in Fulton county and many
friends wish him abundant success in his new vocation.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 18, 1909]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Kewanna Herald comes out this week for the first time in its history as an
all home print newspaper. The Herald has always been one of the best country
papers published in Indiana, and under the management of Carl Jessen it is
growing better with every issue.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 2, 1909]
WILL HAVE NEWSPAPER
The Leiters Ford Herald will make its initial appearance next week. The
arrangements for the publication were made Wednesday at a meeting of the
citizens and business men of that place and from the enthusiasm over the
prospect it is safe to predict that the new venture will be a success from the
start.
For the present the paper will be printed from the office of the Kewanna Herald
and will be under the editorial management of Carl Jessen, of the Herald. It is
proposed to establish a plant at Leiters later should the patronage warrant the
investment. The movement shows that the business men at Leiters are alive to the
value of a good newspaper and are willing to back the venture with their
support.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 11, 1909]
EDITOR J. C. JESSEN RETIRES
A deal was closed today by which J. Carl Jessen disposes of his interest in the
Kewanna Herald, the Van Trump Company, of this city, being the purchasers. Mr.
Jessen has been in charge of the Kewanna Herald for the past three years and
during that time has greatly improved the paper from both the news and business
standpoints. His work attracted the attention of the Logansport Reporter
management and he has accepted a position as business manager of that paper and
will at once take up his residence in Logansport.
Fred A. Taylor will succeed Mr. Jessen as manager and editor of the Herald, and
being a newspaper man of wide experience, will doubtless keep the paper at the
high standard of excellence established by his predecessor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 20, 1912]
Pharos Reporter.
HAS TO SPEND $60,000 YEARLY
Carl Jessen, formerly connected with the Logansport Daily Reporter left today
for Fairfield, Ia., where he has accepted a position as advertising manager of
the Louden Machinery Co.
This company is one of the largest manufacturers of sanitary dairy barn
equipment in the country, and are extensive advertisers. Mr. Jessen, as
advertising manager, will have to spend $60,000 with newspapers and magazines.
Mr. Jessen went to Logansport from Kewanna, where he was editor and publisher of
the Kewanna Herald. During his stay in Logansport he has made many personal
friends who rejoice to learn of his good fortune.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, July 1, 1913]
"J. RED" NOW INTERESTED IN MOTION PICTURE GAME
A letter from D. H. Snepp of Kewanna, now in the West with his wife, encloses
the following clipping from the Los Angeles Express, showing that a former
SENTINEL man is making good in California.
"The Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce has begun a campaign to further the
project of extablishing in Los Angeles a factory for the manufacture of motion
picture raw film. The new industry would mean an added expenditure of about
$150,000 a week in this locality.
"Arthur W. Kinney, industrial commissioner of the chamber, and J. C. Jessen,
Pacific coast manager of an Eastern motion picture publication, are leaders in
the agitation."
Jessen, a son of Mrs. Dosia Jessen, who is also in the West, went to the coast
about a year ago, leaving a position on the Logansport Pharos Reporter for his
new location.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 22, 1915]
JESSEN GRIST MILL [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] RE-OPENED. The well-known GRIST MILL in the rear of the Central House, has
been thoroughly overhauled and repaired, and is now ready to receive custom
work. The Mill is in good condition and under the management of experienced
workmen.
Farmers are invited to bring in their grists and get a good quantity and quality
of flour in return. JESSE JESSEN, Prop'r.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 13, 1877]
JEWELL, CARLOS E. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Carlos E. Jewell)
JEWELL, ROBERT S. [Rochester, Indiana]
BY OX TEAM TO PIKE'S PEAK
By Robert S. Jewell
In 1838, with my parents, I removed from Hamilton, Ohio, and settled at
Knightstown, Ind. The country was new, times close, money in
"shin-plasters," scarce at that, and only small change in silver coin.
There was general complaint of hard times, and for a reason, we therefore had to
subsist on corn bread and the little we could raise in our truck patch, and
considered ourselves fortunate if we could get wheat bread on Sunday. In the
fall, there was a struggle to secure warm clothing for the winter, and I
remember well, it was near Christmas before I got a pair of shoes. Therefore, to
run barefoot in the frost and snow was no uncommon thing, but there were hurried
return trips to the house to warm one's half-frozen toes. Many of the poorer
class suffered for comfortable clothing.
An able-bodied man worked for $8.00 and his board per month, and oftimes took
his pay in trade--corn, potatoes or anything that helped him to live and provide
for his family, for pay in money was nearly out of the question. Anyway, the
value of money was very uncertain for sometimes it was worthless the next day
after receiving it, for the bank would fail or close suddenly.
The wife had to spin rolls to make her clothing for the winter. I have seen
young ladies come to church in their homemade plaid linsey dresses and the young
men in blue jeans suits, and if they were new, some one less fotunate would say,
"My, but they are putting on lots of style." Yet those who were
wealthy, did not treat the poor class disrespectfully, if they were worthy, so
there was more of the spirit of equality, sociability and real enjoyment than in
modern times.
I did not see a train of cars until I was twenty-one years of age. We had no way
of getting our produce to market except to haul it, and the nearest market was
Cincinnati, where we also drove our hogs, through mud and slush. How differenct
today. With railroads and home markets, we are living in a paradise compared to
seventy years ago. I pity the person now who complains of hard times or the
scarcity of money. How little he or she knows the meaning of hard times compared
to the days of which I write.
Soon after my father had purchased a small piece of land joining Knightstown, he
became ill and died, leaving my mother with three children, two sons and a
daughter. His demise left us in debt $500.00 and we lost the land and all father
had paid on it. Our home then became a thing of the past, I being the oldest boy
found a home in Centerville, Wayne county, and I was taught the tailors' trade,
going from there to Charlottsville, where I was married, and from there moved to
Randolph county.
About this time the Pike's Peak gold fever became prevalent. E. Harris, James
and John Addington and myself formed ourselves into a company, purchased two
horses, a wagon and six months' provision and shipped the same to Leavenworth,
Kansas.
At Leavenworth we found a great many persons in camp, getting ready for the trip
into the mountains. We fell in with some Indiana and Ohio boys and formed
ourselves into a company of seventy-two men, to better protect ourselves from
the Indians. We elected a captain, drew up by-laws, etc., and in case we did not
agree on any point, we were to put the point in question to a vote, the majority
to rule. We started from Levenworth about the last of April, five men, (a mess)
to a wagon, but soon found the grass was too short for our teams. The settlers
along the road had burned off the dead grass, and that had delayed the growth of
the new crop. This compelled us to buy corn of them at their own price, which, I
assure you, was high enough. We went into camp on Grasshopper river to wait for
grass to grow. Settlers said that the farther we went the worse it woudl be.
There was plenty of corn and hay, but at extravagant prices. While in camp,
three hundred wagons passed on their way to the gold fields. After a week in
camp, we decided that if others could make the trip in safety, we could, and
found plenty of grass a little way from the settlement. We met the first Indians
at Grasshopper, the Caws, a tribe of beggars. We had been cautioned by the
settlers not to recognize their petitions, or it would mean trouble, and was
told the only way to get rid of their presence was to use harsh methods. Example
of the treatment was given us by a settler who was approached by an Indian who
asked for aid. The settler picked up a club and yelled, "Pacachee,"
which, translated, is about to this effect: "Leave here or I'll knock h---l
out of you." The Indian lost no time getting away.
The next tribe encountered were the Pottawattomies. They were quite friendly.
They were splendid marksmen, and we often tested their skill by placing a
five-cent piece in a split weed and telling them they could have it if shot out
with an arrow at twenty paces. Nine times out of ten they got the money.
Before leaving Grasshopper, one of our horses became injured and could not
travel, so we traded our team and harness for two yoke of oxen, chains and
outfit, being all we could do under the circumstances. We crossed Blue river at
Manhattan, and from there to Ft. Riley, that being the last settlement, although
at Solomon's Fork there was a large ranch, the best we saw on the trip. The
house was one and one-half story, of hewed logs, and everything looked neat and
nice. It was at least fifty miles from any settlement. We only saw two men in
the place. We had to be ferried across the stream, for the water was about
twenty feet deep, although not over sixty feet wide. The man at the ranch ran
the ferry, and he was a tough and rather suspicious looking character. We had
been informed that there was considerable thieving done around Ft. Riley, but we
did not know the exact location of the outlaws.
It was almost night when we were all across the river, so we went into camp. We
"picked" our oxen close to the tent until about three o'clock in the
morning, then turned them out to grass until time to start again. There were a
great many cattle, but they always staid pretty close together, but not
infrequently roamed a half-mile from camp, yet in view, for there was no
obstruction between them and camp. When we went after the cattle, next morning,
our four were missing. We searched for several hours, then the company started
on the trip, leaving a crippled man with us who rode a mule, who was to report
to the company in the afternoon, in case we did not find our oxen.
There was a low, marshy place about a mile away from where we camped and there
we found cattle tracks, and the tracks of a man also. We finally found the
cattle, but the man had skipped, and it may be well that he had, for once away
from the civilizing influences of law, a man's conscience becomes very elastic
and that fellow's skull would have been left to bleach in the sun, for we would
have shot him on sight, being so wrought with anger. We overtook our fellow
travelers about midnight, completely worn out. Next day we came upon some
antelope, providing the boys with fine sport, and also fresh meat for dinner.
The antelope is about the size of a sheep and very swift on foot. As the plains
are in small hills and shallows, the shooting of an antelope is a pretty piece
of work. They run with lightning speed to the hill top, down the other side and
to the next, then wait to see if the pursuer is in sight, if not, they retrace
their steps, curiosity being their weak point. If one is not in sight and they
can not smell you, they come closer and closer until they reach the point from
which they started. A red rag tied to the ramrod of your gun, which is then
stuck in the ground, will draw them step by step, until they see what it is. We
next came upon a buffalo range. That was a sight not to be forgotten. As far as
the eye could carry vision, in every direction, the earth was black with them,
seemingy millions. We were in sight of them for several days. This may sound
like exaggeration, but any one who has seen a buffalo range in an early day,
will tell you this is true. To see them stampede is an awesome sight. They make
a noise similar to the rushing of the wind, and nothing impedes their progress,
men, cattle, wagons, everything goes down before their mighty strength. The
leader is followed by the whole number and only stops when he stops.
The next band of Indians we met were the Commancies, and they too were great
beggars. The company had walked ahead, leaving only one man with each wagon. The
drivers decided they would not give them anything, so their requests were met
with language not eloquent in sound or meaning, and after some time the tribe
rode away, in the same direction we were going, and, overtaking the company,
waited until the teams came up. They asked who the captain was, then laid in
their complaint, saying an apology must be forthcoming or something given them
in return for the bad treatment they had recived from the drivers. It was one of
the days when it was my duty to drive, and our captain said it might be better
to get something from each wagon and give to the Indians than to have any
trouble with them. Some wanted to follow the captain's advice, others wanted to
fight, thinking we could soon clean them out, but the captain said the Indians
could soon bring five hundred more to their assistance, and we'd better get away
without further trouble. We followed his advice. The Indians then buried their
tomahauks, shook hands and went their way.
Our next hardship was found in the desert. We had reached a stream supposed to
be the head of the Smokey Hill river, so small in places that we could step
across it, and the last watering place before entering the desert. We therefore
filled our water tanks, preparing for a drive of forty miles before finding
another place to water the cattle and refresh ourselves. Reaching there we were
disappointed, for the water had dried up and another stretch, according to the
guide books, had to be made before water could be found. Our supply was about
gone, so we traveled all night to avoid the hot sun during the day. Our company
had a pony cart with it, so one man volunteered to ride ahead until he found
water, fill all the tanks the pony could haul, then come to meet us. He started
away, but had a close call for his life, from wolves. They followed close enough
to strike them with his club, as he walked and led the pony. He did not dare
shoot, fearing he might wound one, and that meant death for him. They snapped at
him, but he managed to keep them off by waving a club. The sand was so dry and
fine that no trace of a track was left and it was a dead pull all the time for
every wagon. During the day, an egg could have been cooked by the intense heat
of the sun, and our shoes fairly burned our feet.
About seven o'clock next morning, we were rejoiced to see the pony cart, with
thirty gallons of water, hove in sight. The next watering place was not reached
until noon that day.
We passed many prairie dog towns which sometimes covered an acre or more of
ground. The prairie dog resembles a muskrat, but not so large. They burrow in
the ground and pile the dirt at the side of the hole. They sit upon the mound
and bark on seeing one approach, then dart into their holes until danger is
past. A bark from one will call all the others to the surface to do the same
thing.
Across Cherry creek was the little town of Arrard, a place of fifteen or twenty
log houses or shacks. There the "boomers" or sharpers collected,
trying to boom Denver. I was offered a warranty deed in Denver, the only
stipulation being that I erect a small log house thereon. But I said I would not
take the lot as a gift, for the country looked rough and wild, but that is where
I missed a golden opportunity, for within a year that same lot was worth a large
sum, and within three months after, fine brick buildings were built. The
population jumped to 10,000 and buildings going up as fast as materials could be
secured and employes found to do the work. Mechanics were few and hard to get,
consequently brick and stone masons received all kind of prices, and any one
knowing how to use tools, could get work at good wages. The first hotel was
named the Denver City Hotel. It was 20x40 feet in size, built of logs for the
first three feet off the ground, and from there up of canvass like a tent with a
ridge pole in the center. The rooms were also partitioned with canvas.
There was no lumber except that sawed out with a whip saw, which was operated by
a log being rolled up on a scaffold, one man above the log, the other under, to
pull and draw the saw back and forth and thus saw off a board. When I was in the
mountains, I paid $25.00 per hundred for lumber with which to build our sluice
and ripple boxes.
When well rested from our long and tedious trip, we passed through Denver,
across Cherry creek to the ferry boat, then plying Platt river and on to Golden
City, on Clear creek. There were no houses but a number of tents dotted the
place, giving shelter to the citizens. It was about two miles to the foot of the
mountains where the road made the first ascent. We had a light wagon, a few
provisions and our blankets and to the wagon were hitched three yoke of oxen. So
steep was the road that it was impossible to drive straight up, so the ascent
was mady by quartering, or in a zigzag manner, the incline making from 75 to 100
feet each effort, two men following behind to chock the wheels with a stone at
each stop. The first pull was a mile in length, the second one-eighth of a mile
and then we found the ground level. Part of the time the wagon stood almost on
end, and were glad to find a stretch of level land. Here we had a little
excitement.
A bear crossed our path and we were soon on his track, guns in hand. He was an
old settler, knew the ground and could get over the rocks faster than we, so he
got away. We went back to the wagons happier for the diversity, and journeyed on
to Gregory and Russell diggings. The Gregory mine was a shaft diggings, the
Russell gulch diggings. There were few claims that were paying big and you might
prospect six months and not strike "pay dirt." It was not difficult to
find the "color" but to strike it rich, that was another question.
There were hundreds of prospectors longing to get away, but had nothing to get
away with. We had a claim offered us, and panned out several pans of dirt, and
it seemed to be a paying claim, but we had only worked the surface. It was ten
or twelve feet to hardpan, where gold is usually found. A contract was made for
the claim, with the owner, who gave as a reason for selling, that he was unable
to work the claim, although he had gone down in one corner and found it rich in
gold. We were to pay him one-half of what we took out of the claim, the expense
to come out of his half.
We made a long tom, sluice box, and ripple box, and went to work. The first day
we took out $12.00 and thought we were doing well for the surface. Next day the
man wanted to take our team to Golden City, and accept it as part pay on the
mine. To this we objected, knowing that if the team was driven to Golden City by
him, that would be the last we would ever see of it, so we said no, we would
stand by the contract. To make a long story short, that mine had been
"salted." Every dollar we took out of the mine cost us two to get, as
it was so fine we had to collect dust with quicksilver. The Russell claim was
500 feet above us and from a three days' run, would pan a tin-cup of gold-dust.
Hundreds were discouraged and leaving the diggings, we with the rest. Coming out
of the mountains, we found where the gulch widened three or four hundred feet
and a mile long. In less than ten days there were fifty or more houses, log
cabins, erected by the miners. The town was named Rocky Mountain City. A
newspaper was started, -- was about one-eighth the sixe of the Republican, sold
for 25 cents per copy, and called the Rocky Mountain News. We passed to Golden
City, where our team had been kept, and then on to Denver where we went into
camp for a few days. Here we rested and made ready for the return trip. This was
about the lst of August. Never did I see so many mosquitoes as along Platt
river; they were not quite as large as elephants, but they presented their bills
with regularity every night, and we had to make war on them until about ten
o'clock when the wind would come up and blow them away. We could then lie down
and sleep until morning.
We had not traveled over fifty miles when I was taken sick and developed
third-day ague and from that to every-day shakes. I was very ill the entire
journey and to be hauled four hundred miles in a wagon and lying across the top
of trunks was anything but pleasant and not calculated to inspire one with
courage. By the time we reached Brownsville, my hips were worn through and I
weighed less than one hundred pounds. We camped there but one night. The boys
said: "Now, Bob, we have some hope of getting you home." To which I
replied: "I have never had any other thought but that I would get
home." They aferward said, that for two weeks they thought every day they
would have to dig a 2x6 hole and lay me in. We sold our oxen at Brownsville,
took the boat for St. Louis, and the cars to Indianapolis.
Coming down the river, we stopped at Wyandotte, where we anchored, and I got off
the boat and went into a store and purchased a hat. The only kind that would fit
me was one of the cow-boy style. I was so thin in flesh that I looked like a
ghost, and I had not been shaved since leaving Indiana. I had written home, but
owing to the uncertainty of the mails, the letters did not reach my folks until
after my return, and as they read in the newspapers of the death of many
emigrants and how they were being murdered by the Indians, they naturally
concluded we were dead.
My wife was standing on the porch of our modest home when I went in the yard,
but she did not recognize me until I reached out my hand, then she would have
fallen had I not held her, for I looked very rough. Tears flushed our eyes, but
they were tears of joy.
We came from Randolph county to Rochester in the fall, November 2, 1862. For six
years after coming to Rochester, I worked at my trade, tailoring, first for B.
S. Lyon, then for Truslow, Lyon & Kendrick until my health failed, then
bought twelve acres of ground of C. A. Mitchell, near the West Side Hotel, Lake
Manitou, and started a boat landing which I ran for several years. Since then I
am taking life easy, resting, visiting and enjoying myself as becomes a man of
77 years, who has led an industrious life and had a share of the world's joy and
sorrow.
[Marguerite L. Miller, Home Folks, Vol. I, 1910, pp. 21-28]
JEWELL, WALTER E. [Rochester, Indiana]
On another page of this issue will be found an article from the February issue
of the magazine "Outdoor Life" written by Walter E. Jewell, of Los
Angeles, California, a former resident of this city where he is very well known.
The former Rochester man last summer took a short vacation in Minnesota and
Canada and later wrote of his experiences which were substantially published in
the magazine. At the close of his article Mr. Jewell, who is somewhat of a wit,
offers the following:
The Wonders of Osteopathy
Note. - Neil Berger of Namakin Lake, mentioned above, owned an unusual cat.
It would catch dozerns of rats, but it met with a great misfortune in losing its
right front leg in a steel trap, after which it was unable to keep up its former
good record. Deason and Brockway the two doctors, held a consultation and
decided on a wooden leg - made one, clothespin fashion, and attached to the stub
with adhesive. Sure the cat could walk better and run faster, but the clickety
click, clickety click scared all rats before the cat could make its catch. A
rubber nipple from a baby's morning bottle was slipped on to act as a muffler,
after which Miss Pussey became just as efficient as in former days when
possessed of all four natural legs, and in addition developed a most wonderful
trait of holding its prey alive while beating out their brains with the wooden
leg. Yes, this is a true story. If you don't believe it, ask both prevaricators
who performed this feat. W. E. J.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, February 27, 1923]
JEWELL'S PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY [Rochester, Indiana]
Ambrotypes! S. C. Jewell's New Gallery. May be found in the rooms over A. D.
Cornelius & Bro's Store, on the corner North of the Post Office . . .
Rochester, April 28, 1864.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 28, 1864]
Jewell's Picture Gallery, in the Mammoth Building 2d door, over Lyon &
Kendrick's store. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 1, 1866]
JEWELL TAILOR SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
R. S. Jewell, Tailor. Particular attention paid to cutting. Gentlemen may rely
upon a fit every time. Shop over Fromm's store, front room.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, December 4, 1862]
JIGGS MOTOR SALES [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Hudson's 2,470,695th car comes to JIGGS MOTOR SALES, 606-608 Main St.,
Rochester, Ind. - - - - - - .
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 21, 1937]
JOAQUIN MILLER [Fulton County]
See Cincinnatus Heiner Miller
JOHNNY APPLESEED
Also See Akron, Indiana
__________
APPLE TREE PLANTER'S HISTORY
Johnny Appleseed made his home at Mexico in Miami county for a number of years
and planted the seeds of the first orchards in the Eel river region. His aim in
life was to teach people what he considered the right road to health and
happiness, and this consisted of eating apples with every meal. In fact, what
history is available indicates that the fruit formed the major portion of all
his meals for unlike the Biblical John he had no yearning for locusts and wild
honey.
The first record of his work finds him in the territory of Indiana in 1801 with
a wagon load of apple seeds. These he had brought from the cider presses of
Pennsylvania and West Virginia and he went throughout the country districts,
scattering handful after handful of the seeds, to form the basis of real
horticulture in the middle west. It is safe to assume that a
large portion of the old orchards in Ohio and Indiana were the results of Johnny
Appleseed's foresght. His patience was never exhausted and for many years his
trips were noted by the pioneers in the western country.
In 1806 he was seen going down the Ohio river in a peculiar craft. This proved
to be simply two canoes lashed together and filled with apple seeds. These were
scattered throughout the region and a return made to the cider presses for more
seeds. It is said that Johnny was particularly impressed with the rambo apple
and exerted unusual efforts to get seed from this particular variety.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 22, 1913]
JOHNS, MACK [Akron, Indiana]
WITH MOVIE COMPANY
Mack Johns, of Akron, who went to California last year, was a visitor in
Rochester Thursday when he called on his mother who is at Woodlawn hospital.
Johns is now with the Goldwyn Studios of near Hollywood and is an assistant
cameraman. He will report for duty at Louisville soon where one of the Goldwyn
companies will make a picture.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 18, 1923]
JOHNSON, BENJAMIN O. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Johnson Woolen Mill
__________
BIOGRAPHY
Benjamin O. Johnson, woolen-mill, Rochester, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio,
August 20, 1829, and a son of Hiram A. and Dedy A. (Ogden) Johnson, the former a
native of New York, and the latter of New Jersey. The subject of our sketch
became a resident of Cass County, Ind., in 1840, and was engaged in the
woolen-mill business at Logansport until 1858, when be became a resident of
Rochester, where he has since been engaged in carding, spinning, weaving and
buying and shipping wool. The event of his marriage took place May 2, 1852, to
Sarah L. Craven, who was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., September 2, 1834.
She is the daughter of William and Susanna (Clouse) Craven, the former born in
Pennsylvania, and the latter in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two
daughters--Anna T., born February 20, 1858; ad Elnora, born November 2, 1871.
Mr. Johnson is a member of Rochester Lodge, I.O.O.F., No. 47, and he and his
worthy lady are members of the Baptist Church, and are highly respected by all
who know them.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 29]
JOHNSON, H. H. [Rochester, Indiana]
AUCTIONEER
H. H. JOHNSON, the old reliable sale crier. Satisfaction guaranteed or no
charges made. Leave orders at Zimmerman's, Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 18, 1891]
JOHNSON, J. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
LESTER WHITE BUYS JOHNSON GROCERY STORE
Lester White, who has been employed at the Armour plant in east Rochester for
the past two years, Tuesday purchased the J. C. Johnson grocery at 517 East
Fourteenth St. Mr. White is well qualified to operate the grocery as he has had
many years experience in this line of work. Mr. White, who will operate his
store on a cash and carry basis, has already assumed management. He will carry
only standard brands of foods.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 20, 1928]
JOHNSON, JOHN LOREN [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
BIOGRAPHY
John Loren Johnson was born in Marshall county, September 8, 1870. His father
was William Johnson whose wife was Elizabeth Fox, he of Ohio originally and she
of Pennsylvania. His grandfather was John Johnson whose wife was Mary Overmyer.
She was a sister of Dr. B. F. Overmyer a prominent physician and business man of
Leiters Ford. John Johnson and his wife came into Fulton county in the early
days and cleared land in Richland township near where Sherman Overmyer now
lives, living there until their deaths. The maternal grandparents of our subject
also cleared land and built a home in Pulaski county west of Kewanna when all
that district was deep woods. William Johnson had such education as there was in
the country schools of that day. He spent three or four years in Marshall county
then located in Richland township, Fulton county and there ended life. His
family consisted of Belle, John Loren, Nevada, Lonnie, Erdine and Clara. John
Loren Johnson, after his school days were over, became a farmer in Richland
township. Later he removed to Aubbeenaubbee township and there has sixty acres
on the line on Richland township. He has a good farm with excellent buildings
which he has himself put up. Forty acres in addition belong to him in Richland
township. He does general farming on all his land and has lived in his present
location since the spring of 1908. On October 6, 1892 he was married to Miss Ada
Wagoner, daughter of Jackson Wagoner, a pioneer of Aubbeenaubbee township, by
whom he has two children, a daughter and a son. The son died and the daughter
Grace is now Mrs. William Overmyer and her husband is connected with the State
Bank of Leiters Ford. William Johnson, the father of our subject helped organize
the old private bank of Leiters Ford known now as the Leiters Ford Bank. In
January 1923, this became the State Bank of Leiters Ford. John Loren Johnson was
one of the organizers and is now the vice president.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 217-218, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
JOHNSON, R. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
Also see The Racket
__________
R. C. JOHNSON RESIGNS TO START BUSINESS CAREER
Professor R. C. Johnson, principal of the Rochester High School for the last ten
years, has announced his resignation the same to take effect at the close of the
school year, in June. Prof. Johnson will leave the teaching profession because
of a long felt desire to engage in business.
The school board has been well pleased with the services of the principal as his
record as an instructor and coach of the athletic teams has always been highly
satisfactory. He was offered a substancial increase in pay for next year by the
board but felt that he wanted to begin his other work now.
After his school work is cleared up in the spring, Mr. Johnson will accet a
position in the First National BAnk. He is already well acquainted with the
work, having assisted there at various times during summer vacations.
With Professor Johnson's leaving the city schools will go his resignation as
president of the Indiana High School Athletic Association, which office he has
held for the last year.
Professor Johnson has made a ramarkable record as a basketball coach during his
time at the high school. While no team from here has won a state championship, a
local five has been sent to the state tournament nearly every year and made a
good showing. It will be with considerable regret that the students of the high
school and the fans of the city will see him leave.
Professor Johnson came to Rochester from Carmel, Indiana, where he was principal
of the high school for seven years. Previous to that he was at Westfield for
three years. His home was at Carmel.
The school board made the announcement following the acceptance of Prof.
Johnson's resignation that Prof. Harry Miller, instructor in science, will
succeed to the position of high school principal. Miller is a graduate of
Valparaiso College and had one year of additional stufdy in the University of
Chicago. He has had ten years experience in teaching and for two years has been
the assistant principal of Rochester High School. He was formerly principal of
the New Carlisle High School. He now heads the Boy Scout organization of this
city which consists of 66 members.
The school board has announced that a capable teacher of mathematics and
athletic coach will be selected in the near future.
Miss Cushing, instructor, and the members of her advanced class in domestic
science at the high school, gave a supper Wednesday evening to coach Johnson and
the members of the basketball squad, including Carl Young varsity yell leader.
Prof. Whitmer, Mr. Perry and Mr. Miller were guests. During the course of the
meal the members of the squad presented Mr. Johnson with a beautiful engraved
watch.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 8, 1920]
R. C. JOHNSON RETURNS TO THE RACKET STORE
The many Rochester friends of Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Johnson will be pleased to
learn that they are returning to this city within the next day or so from
Wabash, Ind., to make their future home. Three years ago the Johnsons moved to
Wabash where Mr. Johnson opened and operated the Johnson Clothing Co. store.
The Wabash store which was owned jointly by Dysert, Pyle and Johnson, also
owners of The Racket Clothing store, of this city, will be closed and the stock
added to that of the Rochester store. Mr. Johnson will resume active duties at
the Racket clothing store. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are taking up their residency in
the Harvey Clary property on South Monroe Street.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, February 2, 1932]
JOHNSON, S. N. [Rochester, Indiana]
RETURNS AFTER A LONG ABSENCE
After an absence of 37 years, S. N. Johnson, father of Roy Johnson, a well known
farmer living just east of Mt. Olive, has returned here, with a resulting happy
union between his former wife and himself. Each had married since their
separation years ago, and each has since lost the new consort. Strange
developments are probable.
During the year 1877, Johnson, who was then 30 and who lived with his wife and
three children south of Peru, drove the family to her father's house one day,
told them he would come back after them and then disappeared as completely as if
the earth had swallowed him up. Two days afterward, two of the children died,
one of an illness and one of poison, accidentally given. The son, Roy, then aged
nine, was left with his mother, who after waiting for some time, obtained a
divorce and nine years ago married a wealthy Peruvian named Wilson, who just
recently died, leaving no children.
In the meantime, Johnson, her first husband, had gone West and settled in
Springfield, Mo., where after a number of years, he married a Wisconsin girl,
prospered in business and grew wealthy. Recently his childless wife also died
and after a year or two, there came a longing to go back home. He came to Peru
not long ago, and was about to leave, believing his search for relatives
fruitless, when he ran across a cousin whom he remembered and who told him of
the fortunes of his family since he had left. It is said that Johnson did not
know his wife had obtained a divorce. He at once hunted her up in Peru, and the
re-union was most pathetic.
Together they came out to Mt. Zion a few days ago to visit their son and this
re-union too is said to have been very touching. They remained with their son
for some time and the neighbors have it that a re-marriage is not improbable
between the 67 year old man and his 66 year old ex-consort. Jackson has
interests in oil properties and real estate in Missouri, Mrs. Wilson is also
well off, while the son has a fine farm southeast of this city.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 9, 1914]
JOHNSON BLACKSMITH SHOP [Millark, Indiana]
The Blacksmith shop of Mr. Johnson, of Millark in this County, was consumed by
fire on the morning of the 29th. ult.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 1, 1860]
JOHNSON DAIRY COMPANY [Rochester, Indiana]
JOHNSON DAIRY OPENS MODERN MILK STATION
Ford Johnson, owner of the Johnson Dairy Company, announced today the opening of
a milk station and complete milk pasteurization plant in the building on East
Seventh Street owned by the City of Rochester. The building is at 110 East
Seventh Street.
The room in which the station is located has been remodeled. The walls have been
repaired and a cement floor has been built. The floors of the station will be
cleaned and made sanitary with the use of hot water and live steam.
A complete milk pasteurization plant and a refrigerating system has been
installed at a cost of $3,000. The plant is one of the most modern of the kind
in the northern part of the state.
The milk sold by the Johnson Dairy is from accredited herds and is known as
"Golden Guernsey Milk." In addition to selling either pasteurized or
raw milk the Johnson Dairy company also retails buttermilk and cream.
The Johnson plant is open for inspection by the public each day from 6 a.m. to 6
p.m. except Sundays when the plant closes at noon. A city delivery is maintained
by the dairy. A list of the groceries and other stores in the city where Johnson
Dairy products can be obtained is contained in an ad in The News-Sentinel today.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 13, 1934]
BRUBAKER DAIRY IS SOLD TO JOHNSON DAIRY
Arrangement was made today that the Brubaker Dairy operated by Claude Brubaker
has been sold to Ford Johnson, owner of the Johnson Dairy at 110 East Seventh
street.
The transfer was made today and the Johnson Dairy is now serving all of the
customers of the Brubaker Dairy. Mr. Johnson has contracted to purchase all of
the milk from the Brubaker herd.
Statements by Mr. Brubaker and Mr. Johnson as to the sale are found in the
advertising columns of The News-Sentinel.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, May 6, 1937]
W. M. THOMPSON BUYS JOHNSON DAIRY BUSINESS
In a transaction made late Monday, W. M. (Mac) Thompson, owner of the Sanitary
Dairy and Ice Cream Co., of this city, purchased the Johnson Dairy business and
equipment, located at 110 East Seventh street, this city. The new owner will
take possession of the Johnson business as of Nov. 1.
Mr. Thompson will continue both firms and operate the dairy and dairy products
business under the name of the Sunshine Dairy, of Rochester, Ind. The new firm
will employ from eight to 10 people and the plant will be located at the Seventh
street address.
Both pasteurized and homogenized milk will be available as well as all kinds of
dairy products. The plant will have the necessary machinery for both
pasteurizing and homogenizing and Mr. Thompson stated that several additional
machines were to be installed, making the plant one of the best equipped in
northern Indiana. Mr. Thompson added it is his earnest desire to give efficient
service and high grade products.
Mr. Thompson came here from Hammond, Ind., lan. 1, at which time he purchased
the Sanitary Dairy and Ice Cream Co., has had many years of experience in the
dairy business. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson and two daughters reside at the Sunshine
farm at the end of West Eleventh street, which they purchased last winter.
Ford Johnson stated today that he would occupy the building now occupied by the
Sanitary Dairy Co. on East Eighth street, where he will engage in the
wholesaling and retailing of ice cream and also carry a full line of dairy
products for the retail trade.
The Johnson Dairy has been in operation in Rochester for the past 12 years
during which time the elder Johnson and his son Bud have built up a clientele
which extends to all parts of Fulton county and surrounding territory.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, October 31, 1944]
JOHNSON GROCERY [Lake Manitou]
TERRESA BOUGH COTTAGE IS DAMAGED BY FLAMES
Fire discovered at 10:30 o'clock Tuesday evening damaged the Terresa Bough
cottage in Shobes Park near the Johnson Grocery on the east side of Lake Manitou
to the extent of $200. The fire was caused by an oil stove whch exploded. The
stove was located in the kitchen of the summer home.
The cottage is owned by Dr. E. E. Padgett, 3251 College Ave., Indianapolis, . .
. .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, July 20, 1927]
JOHNSON ICE CREAM PLANT [Rochester/Akron, Indiana]
F. JOHNSON ICE CREAM PLANT MOVES TO AKRON
Ford Johnson, who operated the Johnson Dairy on East Seventh street in this city
will open an ice cream factory in Akron in the near future, according to
announcement from the Henry township hub.
Mr. Johnson has leased the room formerly ooperate by the youth canteen in Akron,
on North Mishawaka street and will install in addition to his manufacturing
plant a complete fountain service. He plans to start operations about May 1.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 20, 1945]
JOHNSON LOCKER PLANT [Rochester, Indiana]
JOHNSON LOCKER PLANT TO OPEN ABOUT JULY 1
The new Johnson locker plant at 316 E. Ninth Street, which was razed by fire
several months ago, will be ready for business about July 1, the owner, Claude
Johnson, revealed today.
The new plant, which has been thoroughly remodeled and modernized will open with
a battery of 370 lockers ready for occupancy. To be added to these are another
consignment of 230 compartments, which will enlarge the plant capacity to 500.
Mr. Johnson stated today that those who formerly held lockers will be given
preference rental, but that the same position as formerly assigned will be
duplicated. That is: those who held top lockers will get same position, as will
those who had lower compartments. New applicants will be considered as
additional facilities are completed.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, June 8, 1945]
JOHNSON MEAT AND POULTRY MARKETS [Rochester, Indiana]
Located (Johnson Poultry & Eggs) 314 E 9th, and (Johnson's Meats &
Groceries) 316 E 9th.
__________
[photo] Johnson Meat and Poultry Markets.
__________
[Adv] OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT of The Johnson Meat Market on East Ninth Street
(In the Vine Curtis Building) March 9, 1929 - - - We can give you A No. 1 cuts
of Veal, Pork and Beef. Union Delivery System. Phone 54.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday March 8, 1929]
A GROWING BUSINESS
A review of East Ninth street would be incomplete without a brief history of the
city's popular meat and poultry market.
In March 1929, Theo. Johnson and his son Claude, purchased the Vine Curtis
market at 316 E. 9th and immediately modernized it to care adequately for the
business. A growing and successful meerchandising program followed, featuring
service, quality, courtesy and price and today there is probably no better name
in foods around Rochester than Johnson.
A dressed poultry department proved immediately popular and new and larger
quarters were needed to handle the increasing volume. The picture shows the new
addition to the left of the meat market.
Just now, Mr. Johnson, who assumed control of the property on the death of his
father in March of this year, is adding a department of home-killed meats and
will feature this in the future.
Assisting Claude Johnson are: Miss Gadys Kale and Messers. George Bowers,
Chester Knickelbine, Harley McCarter, Ervie Mille and Walter Bemenderfer.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 6, 1934, p. 14]
JOHNSON MARKET OFFERS FROZEN LOCKER SERVICE
Claude Johnson today announced completion of a frozen food locker addition to
Johnson Market which includes 175 private lockers housed in a specially
constructed refrigerated room that frozen meats and vegetables in below zero
temperature, insuring fresh-flavor and making it convenient for farmers and
townspeople to store meats after butchering.
As a part of the Johnson service the market does the butchering, cuts up the
meat, packages it and stores it for future use. Additional lockers will be
installed as needed.
A full line of fresh fruits and vegetables is being featured by the market. Out
of season fresh-frozen delicacies can be secured at low cost to add variety to
winter menus.
The cork-insulated, concrete-walled room was built in the rear of the building
and counters have been rearranged to accommodate those who use the locker
service. The improvement, including the additional cooling facilities cost about
$6,000, Mr. Johnson said.
The food locker refrigeration system will be under the managementof Joe Ault,
Jr.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, February 12, 1940]
JOHNSON TO REBUILD BIGGER AND BETTER
Claude Johnson today announced restoration of his market and locker plant,
subject to WPB priorities, after signing a long-term lease with the building
owner, Mrs. Frances Curtis, Indianapolis.
New plans, now proposed, provide for enlargement of the building with the
additon of seven more feet of width, and the addition of from 200 to 400 more
deep-freeze locker units.
$20,000 Loss
The present building was razed by fire of undetrmined origin on the night of
Feb. 17, with damage estimated at $20,000. Large stocks of groceries and meats,
including some 60 quarters of beef in the ageing process, were destroyed or
damaged, while other frozen meats, vegetables and fruits in the lockers were
damaged due to rising temperatures and inability to hold necessary freezing with
the damaged refrigeration plant available. A great amount of locker products
were salvaged, however, and removed to other locker plants in adjacent towns.
The work of rebuilding will begin, Johnson says, as soon as WPB gives the local
man necessary priorities with which to proceed.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 3, 1945]
JOHNSON GROCERY DEPT. TO OPEN IN A FEW DAYS
Claude Johnson of the Johnson Market, East Ninth street, announced today that he
will open the grocery department within a few days, and that opening of the meat
market will follow.
He announced also that on Friday of this week he will have available 25 food
lockers for those who wish them. This, Johnson says, will complete rentals on
all locker space which well be available this year.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, September 12, 1945]
JOHNSON'S WOOLEN MILL [Rochester Township]
See: Johnson, Benjamin O.
See: Rees & Tatham.
__________
Located between Mill Creek and Michigan Road (old US-31) on the 16 acre property of B. O. Johnson, due west of the northwest corner of lot 7 of Danziger's Out Lots, of the town of Rochester. [See Map of Rochester, New Historical Atlas of Fulton County by Kingman Bros.]
The Messrs. Johnson, just north of Town, have made additional improvements in
their Factory, and are ready to do all kinds of work . . .
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, May 10, 1860]
Another valuable improvement in our village. The Messrs. Johnson have
procured and put up a new steam engine to drive their woolen Factory which works
admirably . . .
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, June 28, 1860]
Rochester Woolen Factory . . . having applied Steam Power in addition to
Water Power, Wool Carding, Spinning, Weaving and Cloth Dressing, will be done in
less time than heretofore . . . Give us a call North of Town. H. A. Johnson
& Son, Rochester, Ind., July 4, 1860.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, July 5, 1860]
Rochester Woolen Factory, North of Town. H. A. Johnson & Son. Steam power
in addition to water power. Wool carding, spinning, weaving, cloth dressing,
etc. Goods on hand to exchange for wool.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 11, 1862]
Wool Carding and Cloth Dressing . . . H. A. Johnson & Co., Rochester, May
26, 1864.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, June 30, 1864]
Dissolution. The firm heretofore known under the name of H. A. Johnson &
Co., has this day been dissolved by mutual consent. The business will hereafter
be carried on by H. A. Johnson & Son. Rochester, July 12th, 1865.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 13, 1865]
[long article about the ROCHESTER WOOLEN MILL burning] The building was a
large three-story frame originally built for a flouring mill. For three years
past Mr. John TATHAM has been using it as a woolen mill. . . . Nearly all of the
manufactured goods were saved, and some of the machinery from the ground floor.
. . . . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 11, 1883]
WOOL WANTED
We went to buy 5,000 pounds of wool, for which we will pay the highest market
price in cash or exchange for Rochester Woolen Mill goods of all kinds. Don't
forget us. First door east of Shepherd & Deniston's place. DAVID RADER,
JACOB VAN TRUMP.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 24, 1884]
[Adv] THE PIONEER WOOLEN MILL, North of Rochester, Ind. The mill is now in
complete running order, and the proprietors are prepared to execute promptly all
work in their line. Roll Carding and Custom spinning, Jeans, Blankets, Flannels,
etc., made to order. The highest price in cash for wool. Cleaning gentlemen's
clothing a specialty. Gents' clothing re-dyed when faded and made as good as
new. Ladies' goods of every quality re-dyed and all odors warranted not to rub
off or soil the under garments. Goods can be left at the residence of Mrs. Hay,
on Madison Street, opposite Dr. Hill's office or at the mill north of town. B.
O. JOHNSON & CO.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 28, 1884]
JOHNSTON, BYRON [Rochester, Indiana]
OPENS GROCERY
Byron Johnson, of this city, today reopened the Star Cash Grocery on East 14th
street and is carrying a complete line of staple and fancy groceries as well as
fruits and vegetables.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 8, 1931]
JOHNSTON, J. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
NOTICE
I have decided to move my shoe shop from Holman & Onstott's to C. K. Plank's
on January 26, 1910. Thanking you all for your kind patronage, I remain yours,
hoping to meet you in the new location. J. C. JOHNSTON.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 24, 1910]
JOHNSTON, JEAN D. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Jean Johnston)
JOHNSTON CAFE [Kewanna, Indiana]
RESTAURANT SOLD
Thursday of last week the Washburn Cafe was purchased by Ralph V. Johnston, who
is now in charge. Mr. Johnston contemplates making some changes in the service
and we hope will meet with success. Mr. Washburn at present is in Rochester with
his wife, but what his future plans are we are not advised.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, February 2, 1926]
JOHNSTON & SON [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Specials for Saturday - - - - Open Sundays. JOHNSTON & SON STAR
GROCERY. 517 E. 14th St. Phone 299.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 27, 1924]
BUYS JOHNSTON GROCERY
Estil Sheets, owner of a grocery store at 608 Main street, Monday purchased the
John Johnston home and grocery on East Fourteenth street. Mr. Sheets will move
his family to the Johnston home, where his wife will operate the store and he
the one on North Main street.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, August 10, 1925]
TO REOPEN JOHNSTON GROCERY STORE SAT.
R. W. Tannant, of Chicago, an experienced grocer, has leased the Johnston
Grocery, 517 East Fourteenth St., and will reopen the establishment Saturday
morning. The store is being refurnished and redecorated. A full line of
groceries will be carried as will ice cream and pop. In the future the store
will be known as the Star Cash grocery. Following the death of John Johnston the
store was closed by his son Byron. During the time Mr. Johnston was in charge of
the store it enjoyed a large business from persons living in the southest
section of the city.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 24, 1929]
JONES, BERZA [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Arlington
JONES, CHARLES "CASEY" T. [Rochester, Indiana]
See Jones Implement Co.
__________
TAKES DESOTO AGENCY
In preparation for the post-war automobile rush, Charles T. Jones, Jr., of the
Jones Implement Co., East Seventh street, has announced that he has taken the
agency franchise for the DeSoto line of cars, and that as soon as new models are
available, he will install sales and service departments in connection with his
line of International harvesting machinery and trucks.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, June 5, 1945]
JONES, CHARLES TYRE [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Charles Tyre Jones was born at Talma, Fulton county, Indiana, May 9, 1873, the
son of Daniel and Amelia (Holman) Jones, the former of whom was born in 1843 and
the latter in 1853. Tyre Jones, the paternal grandfather of our subject, came
from Ohio to Marshall county, Indiana, and there farmed for the remainder of his
life. Daniel Jones like his father was a farmer during his entire life, giving
up the work only two years before his death, which occurred February 12, 1917,
his wife having died on March 30, 1901. They left the following children: Edgar
Laroy; Mrs. Mary E. Clyton [?], of Greencastle, Indiana; Mrs. Anna Mead
Haimbaugh, of Kewanna; Mrs. May Allen Umbaugh, of Marshall county, Indiana;
Joshua; Mrs. Ray Blacketor; Mrs. Ruth Garland Clymer, of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; and
Charles Tyre, the subject of this review. Charles Tyre Jones received his
elementary education in the graded and high schools of Rochester and then
attended Valparaiso University. After he had completed his studies, he engaged
in farming which he continued until June, 1921, when he came to Rochester to
enter the Rochester Discount Corporation, of which he is now manager. On May 5,
1894, he was married to Viola Deamer, the daughter of Aaron and Margaret (Laudenslager)
Deamer, of Talma, Fulton county, Indiana, and to Mr. and Mrs. Jones three sons
and two daughters have been born: Marjorie, the wife of Orbie Bryant, of Macy,
Indiana; Eva Bernice Killion, of Hymera, Indiana; Aaron Daniel; Charles T.; and
Herman. Mr. Jones, our subject, served as township trustee of Newcastle township
and was largely instrumental in building the new high school of that township.
He was trustee of Newcastle township for four years, from 1914 to 1918, being
elected to that office on the Democratic ticket. He takes an active interest in
politics and has done much to advance the prestige of the Democratic party in
his home community. Fraternally, he is a popular member of the Gleaners. He and
his wife accept the tenets of the faith of the Christian Church.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 218-219, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
JONES, DANIEL [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Daniel Jones, one of the foremost among the representative farmers of Newcastle
towship, was born in Marshall county, Ind., Feb. 12, 1843. His early advantages
were such as the sons of pioneers usually have. He obtained sufficient book
knowledge while attending the log cabin school to enable him to secure license
to teach about the time he became of age. He taught one term of school and then
in response to a desire to see and know more of the world he went to Omaha,
Neb., and there hired to the general government, first serving in the
quartermaster's department and lastly as teamster. His train was engaged in
hauling supplies to the forts and garrisons located in the Black Hills and in
points in Wyoming. In the winter of 1865 he returned to Fort Leavenworth, Kan.,
and was discharged. Returning home he purchased twenty-two acres of land and
engaged in farming in Marshall county, and resided there till 1873, when he sold
out and bought his present farm of 169 1/2 acres, one mile from Bloomingsburg.
Here he has since resided. In 1882 Mr. Jones was elected township trustee by the
democrats and was re-elected in 1884. During his regime the new Bloomingsburg
school house was erected and such other public improvements made as seemed most
desirable. His service was such as a conscientious, conservative man would be
expected to render and his administration is pointed to as one of the successful
ones in the history of the township. In August, 1872, Mr. Jones married in this
county Amelia Holeman, a daughter of Charles Holeman, and a sister of George
Holeman, of Rochester. Their children are: Charles, Leroy, Mary, Anna, May, Roy
and Ruth. Mr. Jones' father, Tyre Jones, was a prominent and popular farmer of
Marshall county for many years. He was born in Pennsylvania, reared in Ohio and
was married in Crawford county, Ohio. He came to Indiana in 1839, the year the
Indians were removed from Fulton county. He settled in Marshall county, where he
was very successful, and died there in 1878, aged seventy, leaving an estate of
400 acres, which he had cleared himself. His wife was Sarah Ames, who died in
1880 at sixty-eight. Her surviving children are: Jordan, Harriet, Benton, Sarah,
Daniel, Mary, Kline and Clara. Mr. Jones is a member of the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows and the K.O.T.M fraternities.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 90]
JONES, HERMAN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Herman Jones)
JONES, I. N. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] To Prospective Builders and others who use LUMBER. I have recently
purchased the A. Baker Lumber Yard and business, - - - - I. N. JONES.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 25, 1898]
JONES, M. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
JONES, MACKENZIE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Arlington
JONES, ROBERT O. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Robert Jones)
JONES, ROBERT R. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From "Bob" Jones)
JONES, ROY [Akron, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Roy Jones, assistant cashier of the State Bank of Akron, and one of the sound
business men and financiers of Fulton county, was born in this county, February
26, 1878. He is a son of David and Amelia (Holman) Jones, the former of whom was
born at Argos, Marshall county, Indiana, February 12, 1824, while the latter was
born near Mentone, Kosciusko county, Indiana. Both were educated in the common
schools, but she had the advantage of a course at Saint Mary's School of South
Bend, Indiana. For several years he taught school, but during 1862 and 1863 was
in the government employ, and subsequently, enlisting in the regular army, was
sent West to Colorado to fight the Indians. Returning to Indiana, he engaged in
farming, became the owner of 160 acres of land, and was a man of prominence in
Fulton county. For some years he served as a school trustee, and he was always a
great friend of the public schools. Fraternally he belonged to the Odd Fellows
lodge at Talma, Indiana. Both he and his wife belonged to the Christian church.
They are now deceased, and lie side by side in the cemetery at Talma, a tasteful
monument marking their graves. They were the parents of seven children, two sons
and five daughters, all of whom survive. They are all residents of this county
with the exception of Mary, widow of Everly Clifford, of Greencastle, Indiana.
She has charge of Students Hall, DePauw University. Her daughter is Evelyn, who
is in school; and Ruth, a resident of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is the wife of
Garland Clymer, an employe of the Pennsylvania Railroad. They have two sons and
two daughters. Roy Jones, of this review, attended the common schools and the
Indiana State Normal School, and was graduated from the latter in 1907, having
specialized in chemistry. He earned the money to pay for his university course.
For six years he was a teacher in the common schools, and for thirteen years
held the position of principal of the village schools of Talma, and of the
Mitchell High School. Leaving the educational field he entered the employ of the
Lehigh Portland Cement Company, and was sent to the chemical laboratory at
Mitchell, Indiana. Later he was for two years chemist for the Mitchell Lime
Company. In 1913 he came to Akron, and was principal of its high school for five
years, and for one year he was manual training teacher at Fulton, Indiana. May
26, 1918, he entered upon a new phase of life when he enlisted for service
during the World war. He reported at Indianapolis, Indiana, at the headquarters
of the Young Men's Christian Association, and from there, June 24, 1918, he was
sent to Geneva, Wisconsin. A month later he was transferred to New York City,
New York, reported there July 27, where he remained in training until August 31,
when he was sent to Montreal, Canada. From that city he sailed, September 1,
1918, for Liverpool, England, on the steamer Burma, under the English flag, and
arrived at his destination September 16. A special train transferred his unit to
London, and from there he went to Southampton, and thence to La Havre, France,
reaching French soil September 23, Going at once to Paris, he spent a week in
that city, and then, October 1, was sent to Nevers, and thence to Saint Amand,
where he had charge of athletics with the Seventy-sixth Division and the
Twenty-eighth and Thirty-second companies of the Twentieth Engineers. March 1,
1919, he returned to Paris, and March 4 was at Marseilles, France. After four
days in the Detention Camp of that city, March 7 he, with others, sailed for the
United States, and arrived at Brooklyn, New York, and from there returned home.
He received his honorable discharge, March 30, 1919. November 23, 1905, Roy
Jones and Miss Maude Patterson were married, and they have a daughter, Victoria
Viola, who is in her first year at high school. She has also studied
instrumental music. Mrs. Jones was born in Miami county, Indiana, February 13,
1881, and she is a daughter of Martin L. and Viola (Hakins) Patterson, both of
whom survive, and are now residing at Akron. She was educated in the common
schools, the Akron High School, and the Academy of Northwestern University.
While at Evanston, Illinois, she specialized in both vocal and instrumental
music, and is a graduate of the Conservatory of Music of Rochester, Indiana.
Both she and her husband belong to the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he
is a steward, and she is a member of the Ladies' Aid Society. A staunch
Democrat, Mr. Jones has been a member of the town council since 1922, and he is
secretary of the Carnegie Library. Fraternally he maintains membership with the
Blue Lodge of Akron, the Chapter, Council and Commandery in Masonry, and Akron
Lodge No. 329, K. of P., and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and his wife
belongs to the Eastern Star and Pythian Sisters, and is worthy matron of the
former. They enjoy life, have traveled extensively and have made trips to
different parts of the United States. Upon his return from the army, Mr. Jones
entered the State Bank of Akron, and has been its assistant cashier since
January 1, 1920, and in this connection, as in all others, he has proved himself
worthy of the trust reposed in him, and is held in high regard by all who know
him.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 219-222, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
JONES GROCERY, PERRY [Rochester, Indiana]
PERRY JONES GROCERY, EAST ROCHESTER, SOLD
Cecil Snapp and Dale Briles, owner and employee of a grocery on E. Ninth street,
Monday took possession of the Perry Jones grocery on Avenue B. in East
Rochester, which had been operated 13 years on the corner by Mr. Jones, present
councilman from the first ward. Five years previously, Mr. Jones had operated
agrocery across from his present location. He purchased this grocery from Ray
Adamson.
The price involved in the transaction is not known. Invoice has been completed
but figures have not yet been totalled.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, January 26, 1926]
GROCERY SOLD
The Perry Jones grocery in East Rochester has been sold by Cecil Snapp to Sam
Powell, better known as Sam Kime. Mr. Powell will operate the store under the
name of the "Perry Jones Grocery."
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, March 8, 1926]
RECEIVER IS ASKED FOR EAST ROCHESTER GROCERY
A suit was filed in the circuit court late Monday afternoon by the Church-Vance
Grocery Company of Peru against Frank R. Moore, Clyde Towne, Henry Long, August
M. Schultz, Charles Bixel, Ira Thompson and Obert S. Goss in which they asked
that a receiver be appointed for the grocery in East Rochester which is commonly
known as the Perry Jones grocery but which is not owned at the present time by
Mr. Jones in which a judgment for $250 is asked on a bill for $127.92.
The plaintiff alleges that at the time the grocery store was owned by Moore and
Towne they sold the same to Henry Long, the purchaser agreeing to pay all
obligations of the preceding owner. The plaintiff says that Long failed to pay
the obligations of his predecessor and also failed to comply with the bulk sales
law, when he in turn sold the store to Ira Thompson. Prior to this time Moore
and Towne had failed to notify their creditors.
The Church-Vance Company alleges that Long, Schultz, Bixel, Thompson and Goss
entered into a conspiracy to defeat the store's creditors whereby Long was to
sell the stock of goods to Thompson through Schultz and Bixel and in turn the
stock was to be delivered to Goss who was to sell the same secretly and quickly.
Some of the stock according to the plaintiff has already been disposed of.
The plaintiff further says that Long, Schultz, Bixel, Thompson and Goss are
threatening to move goods from the store. As neither of the five are solvent,
the Church-Vance Company asked that a receiver be appointed to take charge of
the store. Judge R. R. Carr heard this petition late Monday afternoon and found
for the plaintiff. The court then appointed Ed Mohler as receiver, he to furnish
bond of $1,000 which he did.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, October 23, 1928]
MOVES MEAT MARKET
Sam Powell has consolidated his two meat markets at the Jones Grocery Store in
East Rochester. Mr. Powell is moving the stock of goods which he carried in the
North Main Street market to the Jones Grocery.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 21, 1932]
NEW GROCERY MANAGER
Announcement was made Tuesday morning that the management of the Perry Jones
grocery has been changed. Nathan H. Swihart of North Liberty, is the new
manager, succeeding Samuel Powell. The new owner ßis a former farmer and a
store operator. Mr. And Mrs. Amos Johnson will assist Mr. Swihart in the grocery
and meat market.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, April 4, 1939]
BUYS GROCERY
Robert "Bob" Waltz, former salesman for Armour & Co., has
purchased his fathr', Ort Waltz, grocery on East Fourth street, this city, and
has already taken possession of the business. Mr. and Mrs. Waltz will reside
inEast Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, February 8, 1945]
JONES IMPLEMENT CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
Located at 226 E 7th.
Owned by Charles Tyra (Casey) Jones.
__________
"CASEY" JONES TO OPEN FARM MACHINERY STORE
Charles T. (Casey) Jones today announces the opening of a new farm implement
store in the Barrett Building, 222 East 7th street, this city.
The new firm will feature the McCormick Deering line of farm machinery and will
also carry a complete supply of parts for practically all makes of farm
machinery and implements. Mr. Jones has been engaged in farm machinery field
work in this and adjoining counties for the past several years.
Fred McKee, an experienced parts and repair mechanic has been employed by Mr.
Jones to supervise this phase of the business. An announcement advertisement
appears elsewhere in this issue of The News-Sentinel.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, March 9, 1939]
JONES WHOLESALE COMPANY, GEORGE S. [Rochester, Indiana]
GEORGE S. JONES OBITUARY
July 12, 1912-Jan. 10, 1998
George S. JONES, 85. 201 W. 9th St., Rochester, died 2:35 p.m. Sunday at
Woodlawn Hospital.
Born July 12, 1912 in Elk City, Oklahoma to Dr. Harry and Allabelle TYLER JONES,
he married Hazel C. Putnam on May 10, 1947 In Lainsburg, Mich.
He owned and operated the George S. Jones Wholesale Company, Rochester. He had
been a Fulton County Probation Officer. He was a long time leader of Rochester's
Boy Scout Troop 219 and was recipient of the Silver Beaver Award. He was a
member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Rochester American
Legion and VFW Posts, the Rochester Eagles Lodge, and a charter member o Fulton
County Historical Society. He was a retired Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army
Reserves and served with the U.S. Army In the Pacific theater during World War
II. He was awarded the Soldiers Medal and the Bronze Star.
Survivors include one daughter, Janet and husband Terry MEYER, Roseburg, Ore.;
four sons, Harry O. JONES, West Lafayette, Dewey George JONES, Marquette, Mich.,
Richard P, JONES, Atlanta, Ga, and John A. JONES, Rochester; 15 grandchildren,
eight great- grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Tyler S. JONES,. grandson, Jacob MEYER, and
brother, Harry O. JONES.
Services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at Zimmerman Family Funeral Home: with Bishop
William TINCHER and Rev. Don BRENNEMAN officiating. Burial is at IOOF Cemetery,
Rochester. Graveside military rites will be conducted by the Rochester American
Legion and VFV Posts. Friends may call 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Zimmerman Family
Funeral Home, Rochester, and from 11 a.m. until services Wednesday. Memorials
may be made to Sagamore Council of Boy Scouts ofamerica or the National VFW
Children's Home
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 12, 1998]
JONES & BECKER [Rochester, Indiana]
BLACKSMITH SHOP PURCHASED
A deal which was made a week ago but which has just been given out resulted in
Russell Jones of the firm of Jones & Becker selling his half interest in the
blacksmith shop on West Seventh street to his partner, John Becker. Mr. Jones
remained with the firm until the end of fair week, but is now taking a few days'
vacation. The exact nature of Mr. Jones' business pursuits of the future is
unknown to himself, but it is more than likely that he will move his family to
Ohio in the near future. Mr. Becker, who has been in the blacksmith business in
Rochester for several years, will continue to cater to the wants of his many
patrons and expects to uphold the high standard of workmanship of the old firm.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, September 17, 1912]
JONES & JONES [Rochester, Indiana]
INSURANCE COMPANY CHANGED
An important change has been made in the Jones and Jones Insurance Agency,
through the retirement of Charles Jones, Sr. The new firm will be known as
Haskett and Jones Insurance Company. C. H. Haskett, son-in-law of Roy Jones, has
taken over the interests of Charles Jones. The personnel of the new agency will
be Charles Jones, Jr., and C. H. Haskett. Mr. Haskett recently resigned his
position with the Rochester Federal Fish Hatchery.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, December 3, 1935]
JONTZ, MAC [Akron, Indiana]
TO BE MOVIE ACTOR
Mac Jontz, of Akron, well known here, is motoring through to Los Angeles,
Calif., where he has been offered a lucrative position in the movies. Mr. Jontz
and two Indianapolis friends left a week ago for the West, and Ted Jontz
received a letter Monday from the party, who were then in Arizona. One of the
men with Mr. Jontz is a large stockholder in the Goldwyn Studios, where the
local lad will probably work. Having lived on a ranch for several years, where
he learned to ride anything that wore hair, Mr. Jontz will probably make his
debut in a western picture.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 16, 1922]
JONTZ, TED [Akron, Indiana]
BAILEY BEVERAGE SOLD TO TED JONTZ, AKRON
In a business transaction, Tuesday morning, Ted Jontz, of Akron, became the sole
owner of the Bailey Beverage Co. of this city. Mr. Jontz will take over the
active operation of the county beer distributing business as of Thursday, May
31st.
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fultz, owners and operators of the beer wholesaling business,
with offices and warehouse at rear of 816 Main street, are retiring from
business at the present time inasmuch as Mr. Fultz is now in service of the U.S.
Navy. They became owners of the distributing agency following the death of Mrs.
[Fultz]'s father, Charles H. Bailey, which occurred a little over a year ago.
Mr. Jontz, a native of Akron and Henry township, is well known throughout the
county and a few years ago was a candidate for county treasurer on the
Republican ticket. The new proprietor plans to take over the entire equipment,
buildings and personnel, it was stated. For the past several years Mr. Jontz has
owned and operated a garage and machine repair shop on West Rochester street in
Akron.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, May 22, 1945]
JORDAN, OLIVER [Tippecanoe River]
A FULTON COUNTY MURDER
On a lonely island, or swail [sic] surrounded elevation along the Tippecanoe
river between Delong and Monterey, Oliver Jordan, a farmer, while hunting, made
a gruesome discovery, yesterday. There in the short brush, near the water his
dog barked at something and he found the body of a dead man, the decomposed head
being detached and lying several feet away. It was plain to be seen that the
face and hands had been gnawed by muskrats or other carnivorous animals and that
they had torn the head from the body.
Help was called and the neighborhood a mile and a half north east of Monterey,
was soon aroused and a large crowd assembled. The body was examined and it was
readily seen that it was that of a well dressed man 30 to 35 years old. It was
also plain to be seen that the body had lain there quite a while, probably since
early springtime. It was clothed in a heavy beaver overcoat, black business
suit, silk underware, new shoes, and lying under the body was a fine Stetson hat
and five of the front teeth are filled with gold. In his pockets were found an
open face gold Waltham watch, case No. 5,945,506, silver change to the amount of
$1.50, a bunch of five keys, a memorandum book, an elevated railway ticket, two
pocket knives, a few cartridges, and a new long leather bill book which was
empty. There is some writing in the memorandum book but the water had soaked it
so badly the ink had spread and obliterated the letters.
It WadsMurder
By Telephone Special from Monterey.
Coroner Babcock was notified and came here early Monday morning, but could find
nothing to identify the man. At the inquest the coroner found two fractures of
the skull, one being large extending from back to front on right of skull, while
the other on the left side extended from the side to the frontal bone.
Twenty-eight well preserved teeth were found, five of which were gold filled.
The man's hat was found lying under him. His head was severed from the body, it
lying about four feet away. He was undoubtedly on the light complected order,
but his being so badly decomposed it was impossible to tell whether he wore a
mustache or not.
Since the ghastly find was made it is said that people in that vicinity have for
weeks noticed a strong odor coming from the island, but none ever investigated
it.
The remains were taken charge of by Undertaker Wagoner of this place, who
brought them here and prepared them for burial, after which he removed them to
Leiters Ford where they were interred. - - - J.D.Y.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 24, 1903]
IT WAS A MURDER
The identity of the unknown dead man found on an island in the Tippecanoe river,
is as much of a mystery as ever. No possible clue has been found to aid in
identification and unless the watch number may be traced from factory to
purchaser it will never be known whom the man was nor why and by whom he was
murdered.
That it was a murder there is no doubt in the minds of those who assisted
Coroner Babcock in his inquest. The Doctor is in town, today, and he talked at
length with a SENTINEL representative. He corroborated the particulars as
published in the SENTINEL, Monday, except that the hat was dark instead of light
and the gold filled teeth were seven in number, five above and two below, all
jaw teeth and next to the back molars.
Further particulars are given in the description which are very interesting. In
the stiff hat found lying crushed beneath the body were two rents. [sic] One was
on one side and one on the other. The one on the right side was directly over
the fracture in the skull which commenced near the eye and extended four inches
back just over the ear. The other was on the left side and these two indicate
that the man was struck twice by some cudgel. One bone of the left arm was
fractured near the wrist.
The overcoat and suit were both blue black, the suit in serge cloth and the
overcoat in beaver. The shoes worn were patent leather, congress style, and on
one foot was a half sandal or overshoe without heel. A pair of gold rim noise
[sic] glasses in a case, was found in a pocket, in addition to the other
articles heretofore described, and a stiff bosom white shirt, lay down collar,
cravat style tie and silk handkerchief were further evidence that he was a well
dressed and well to do gentleman.
A careful examination and measurement of the remains was made by Coroner
Babcock. The body was 5 feet 7 inches long with broad shoulders, broad hips and
small face. The remains lay face downward, both hands were gone and what little
flesh there was left was on the chest and abdomen and indicated that the man had
been somewhat fleshy and probably weighed 165 to 185 pounds.
The island on which the body was found is on the north side of the river and
about thirty rods from a road and the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Payne. They
never noticed anything except that last January or February their dog was
frequently away from the house and would return with a carrion odor on him. They
now think he was probably eating at the dead man.
The clothes were so badly rotted and saturated with liquids from the dead body
they were buried with the remains, and skull and all were so laid away that they
may be readily exhumed for further examination.
Coroner Babcock made his official report to the county clerk today and his
verdict is, the unknown man who was found, met his death at the hands of a
person or persons unknown.
All of the articles found in the clothing were retained by the coroner and
carefully inspected this afternoon. By the aid of powerful microscopes Jeweler
Will Howard found that the spectacle case was stamped "Borsch &
Co." and on the railway ticket could be distinguished the words
"Cataract Electric Ry Co., and good "after May" or possibly
"Mar 10, 1903; H. M. Sloan, Gen. Mgr."
The number of the watch is in the hands of Mr. Howard and he will write the
factory and see if it can be traced to the retailer who sold it and who may have
the name of the man who bought it.
The supposed memorandum book proved to be a Rand-McNally railway map and guide
for Indiana but all was so badly rotted it was difficult to get any information
from it.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, August 25, 1903]
JOSEPH, CLINTON [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Clinton Joseph}
JOYNER CORPORATION [Rochester, Indiana]
Previously located here temporarily over Kepler Oldsmobile Sales, wanted to
build a plant here. The Chamber of Commerce purchased a site for them in
Fansler's Manitou Heights and the factory was completed.
The company was confronted with a general strike in Rochester, Warsaw and
Bourbon. They were not large enough or strong enough to hold out, so the
Rochester plant was shut down and offered for sale.
Before this, however, Safway Steel Products had bought the acreage east of the
Sealed Power Corporation across the Nickle Plate Railroad and had planned to
build there. Hearing of the Joyner offer of sale, Safway immediately had their
attorney negotiate, which, after due inspection by their board of trustees,
ended in the sale to Safway Steel Products.
[Hill Family, Clarence F. Hill, Fulton County Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
JULIAN, SAMUEL W. [Wayne Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Samuel W. Julian, the present trustee of Wayne township, Fulton county, was born
in Rush county, Ind., Oct. 11, 1829. His parents were George and Sarah (Fullen)
Julian. His father was born in North Carolina. He was a son of George Julian,
who was also a native of North Carolina. The Julians trace their origin to
France. The first representatives of the family settled in North Carolina before
the revolution. In an early day the paternal grandfather of the subject of this
biography moved with his family from North Carolina to Tennessee, and still
later to Indiana, before the Indiana territory became a state. He lived and died
in Rush county, this state. With him the father of our subject came to Indiana.
He was married in Montgomery county, Ind., to Sarah Fullen, who was born in
Indiana. She was a daughter of Samuel Fullen, whose father was born in Ireland.
Samuel Fullen was a pioner of Shelby county, Ind. The parents of our subject
settled in Shelby county first, then moved to Rush county, then to Cass county,
in which county the mother died in August, 1841, at the age of forty-one years.
She bore her husband thirteen children, of which two brothers and two sisters
are now living. The father married a second time, wedding Margaret Methon, a
Scotch lady. She bore him no children. In the year 1857 he moved to Wayne
township, Fulton county, where he lived till his death, which occurred in May,
1866, when he was seventy-five years of age. He was a farmer by occupation. The
subject was reared on a farm and gained a common school education. He was ten
years of age when his mother died. He was with his father up to the age of
eighteen, when he began the battle of life for himself. He learned carpentring
and followed the trade to some extent in early life. He also taught in the
county schools for some five years. In the year 1855 he married Mary A. Hughes,
who was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., in the year 1831, Aug. 3. She came to
Indiana with her parents when about three years old. Her father was John Hughes,
a pioneer of Clinton county, Ind. The first year of Mr. Julian's married life
was spent in Cass county. In 1856 he settled in Fulton county, near where he now
lives. He located there to teach a term of school, but he has since lived in the
county. He became a farmer and has since followed that pursuit. He had limited
capital to begin life on, but he has been a hard working man and by means of
toiling hard and practicing economy he has grown prosperous, now owning
one-quarter of a section of land in Wayne township. He has always been a
democrat in politics. In the years 1867-68 he served as trustee of Wayne
township. In the fall of 1894 he was elected to the same office and took charge
of the same in August, 1895. His term of office will expire in August, 1899. He
makes an acceptable officer, and is held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens.
Mr. and Mrs. Julian have six children, viz.: Sarah Ellen, Susan M., James H., a
Baptist minister; Lillie J., Frances A. and Santford W. Mr. Julian is a Master
Mason. Mrs. Julian is a zealous member of the Baptist church. Mr. Julian, though
not a member of the church, has always been friendly to the cause.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 90-92]
JURORS [Fulton County]
FIRST JURY WITH WOMEN MEMBERS IS EMPANELLED
Shortly before four o'clock Monday afternoon the first jury ever empanelled in
Fulton county in which a part of the members were women, was sworn in and the
trial of the case of the State vs Levi M. Graffis, accused by a grand jury
indictment of forgery was on in full blast.
But it was a matter of extreme difficulty to select the jury and it was
necessary to use at least another full jury of 12 men (and women) tried and true
before the case could come to trial.
In making the examination of the jury, attorneys for both the State and the
defendant experienced considerable difficulty in securing from the women the
information as to whether or not they would be willing to give the defendant the
benefit of the doubt in the event there was any reasonable doubt as to his
guilt.
Under the rulings of the law, the jury or a juror must not return a finding one
way or the other when a reasonable doubt exists in his or her mind. The question
put by the attorneys, clouded in long legal and technical phrases, was hard to
understand, especially to the members of the weaker sex, who never before in
their lives had concerned themselves with such matters.
The following question was put to practically every member of the jury:
"In the event that these 11 other jurors were in favor of returning a
verdict for the defendant, and you had first deemed him guilty in your own mind
according to the evidence heard, and your belief came largely from a
preponderance of evidence from the prosecution, and all other 11 jurors had
almost, but not entirely, convinced you that your opinion was wrong; in other
words, if there was an element of doubt in your mind, be it ever so slight,
would the fact that all of the other members of the jury were voting opposite
your own original inclination in the mattter sway you to such an extent that you
would also vote for acquittal?"
Then the much harrased woman would answer:
"Well, I don't just exactly understand what you mean but I don't believe
they could make me change my mind, but I really don't understand."
The entire question would be repeated, and in an effort to make it clear, the
attorney would string it out even longer, in fact recite a veritable thesis on
the subject of doubt in the mind of the jurors until she was at complete loss as
to the nature of the subject.
But after a long hard battle twelve were selected, but not before a humorous
element was introduced that caused the bailiff to hammer hard in an effort to
restore order to the court.
Mrs. William Biddinger was on the jury and she had apparently been passed by
both sides, when out of a clear sky, when another juror was dismissed her
husband was called.
The fact that man and wife were on the same jury caused a slight ripple on the
surface of the otherwise serious crowd in the court room, but when the question
was propounded to "Bill" as to whether or not he would be able to
agree with his wife on a vedict to be returned and he answered that if he did it
would be the first time they had ever agreed, pandemonium broke loose.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 18, 1921]
JUSTICE, FRANK [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS AGENCY SOLD
Announcement was made today of the sale of the Sunday newspaper agency in this
city by Charles Mitchell to Frank Justice owner of the Arlington barber shop.
Mr. Mitchell has operated the agency for 35 years. The agency has been located
in the Arlington Barber Shop for several years and will continue to be operated
from this tonsorial parlor.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, April 17, 1939]
GEORGE ROSS HAS SOLD HIS NEWSPAPER AGENCY
Frank Justice, owner of the Arlington Barber Shop, today purchased the newspaper
agency of George T. Ross which he has operated for the past thirty-two years.
Mr. Justice several weeks ago purchased the Sunday newspaper agency of Charles
Mitchell, and will continue the two agencies at the Arlington barber shop.
Stands in the city where papers were sold in the past such as the one at the
Ross book store will continue to make such cash sales to their customers.
The agency which Mr. Justice purchased from Mr. Ross comprised the following
newspapers: Chicago Tribune, Chicago American, Chicago Herald-Examiner and
Indianapolis Star.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, May 4, 1939]
JUSTICE OF PEACE [Rochester, Indiana]
MISS HOFFMAN IS FIRST WOMAN JUSTICE OF PEACE
The first woman justice of peace in Fulton county was elected to office in
Tuesday's election. The justice of peace-elect is Miss Mable Hoffman.
Miss Hoffman, who is a Republican, has been a resident of this city for several
years. For the past couple of years she operated a collection agency and has
been secetary in the law office of Charles G. Wallace. The newly-elected justice
of peace came to this city from Elkhart, where she was employed in one of that
city's larger department stores.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 6, 1942]
JUVENILE SINGING CLASS [Rochester, Indiana]
The Juvenile Singing Class under the direction of Mr. Kane, will give a public
performance in this place on the evening of the 28th inst., at the Methodist
Church. Mr. Kane is a popular and successful teacher, and a treat may
confidently be expected. All are invited. A small admission fee will be charged
to defray expenses.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 18, 1860]
FULTON COUNTY, INDIANA
HANDBOOK
K
K.K.K. LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located NW corner Seventh and Jefferson Streets.
K. OF P. BAND [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rannells, William W.
KADER THE JEWELER [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NEW JEWELRY STORE. Watches, Clocks and Jewelry of excellent quality at
Very Reasonable Prices. Expert Rapair Work Promptly Done. THE KADERS, 108 East
Eight Street, Rear Indiana Bank Building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, September 12, 1912]
TO GET U. S. TIME
The Kaders will soon have United States Observatory time at eleven o'clock each
day.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 11, 1915]
CLOSING OUT STORE
Ernest Kader, proprietor of the jewelry store on East Eighth St., has announced
that he will close his place of business next week and return to his former home
in Peru, where he will enlist in the army.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 2, 1918]
KAI-GEE / K.G. THEATRE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located at 716 Main St.
Operated by Carl "Red" Jessen.
See Moving Picture Theaters
__________
WILL OPEN NEW THEATRE
Workmen commenced this morning re-modeling the Wile room on Main street,
formerly occupied by E. C. Draper, the jeweler, and it will be converted into a
pretty motion picture theatre. This new place of amusement is being put in by
Carl Jessen who has had charge of the Manitou theatre for the past two months.
The front of the theatre will be something new for Rochester, built on the plans
used by the Orphean theatre on State street, Chicago. The house will be supplied
with a new underwriters' model Edison Kintiscope, the most expensive and
successful picture machine on the market, which produces pictures without
flicker or jumping. The film service for this theatre -- The New Colonial, the
beautiful -- will be best. Arrangements have been made whereby films will be
furnished to this house direct from the factory. All the new pictures will be
shown here as soon as copyrights are released.
The opening date has not as yet been fixed but will probably occur sometime next
week. At this there will be a great treat given Rochester people.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 22, 1908]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Miss Iva Etta Sullivan, Librarian of Rochester Public Library was awarded the
prize for suggesting the best name for the new Main Street theatre, her
suggestion being "Kai Gee," (pronounced K.G.) Chinese meaning awful
good. There were four hundred and ninety-two people suggested names, in all
there being one hundred and eighteen different ones.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 1, 1908]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Carl Jessen and Ik Wile are in Chicago today, and will return this evening with
a new Edison Kinetoscope adjusted and fitted with all the late improvements for
the Kai Gee theatre. The machine will be used this evening.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, June 16, 1908]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The new Thomas A. Edison Kinetoscope has been installed in the Kai Gee theatre.
Pictures now without a flicker tonight "The Soldier's Helmet" and
"Turning the Tables."
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 17, 1908]
[Adv] PICTURES of Plymouth Democratic Convention in addition to regular
program. Hear Mr. Dee Reiter Sing. K G Tonight.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 24, 1908]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Fred Shoulder of the Kai Gee spent Sunday in Chicago among the film exchanges,
and looking up opera chairs and other theatrical accessories. He expects to
remodel the Kai Gee and make it one of the most up-to-date moving picture
theatres in the state.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 7, 1910]
KAI GEE THEATRE SOLD
The Kai Gee theater, which has been managed by Fred Sholder of this city for the
past two years, changed hands Friday evening, when Ed Zook and his daughter,
Mrs. Roy Shanks, became the new owners.
After the last show this evening the theater will be closed until some extensive
repairs care made. The floor will be lowered so that the curtain may be seen to
better advantage and opera chairs will be added for the comfort of the theater's
patrons. The interior of the room will be redecorated and when finished the
theater will be a most desirable property. The exact date of re-opening is not
known at this time.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 26, 1910]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Visitors at the Kai Gee theater Thursday evening were surprised to see the
likeness of Miss Bess Emrick of this city in the role of a nurse in the reel
entitled "Jimmy's Mistake."
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 21, 1912]
NEW THEATER TO BE MOST MODERN
Rochester will be able to boast of a really high class vaudeville and motion
picture theater, as well as a handsome addition to the business district of the
city, when the J. F. Dysert building for which excavation is now being done just
north of the Dillon block, is completed. W. H. Kendrick is the architect.
The new theater will occupy the first floor, will be new and modern throughout,
and will be conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Roy Shanks, who have for some time had the
Kai Gee and Star theaters. The name Kai Gee will probably be retained.
The building will be three stories in height, 122 feet long and 23 feet seven
inches wide. It will be of fire proof construction, with I-beams running
crossways every 16 feet, and the joists running lengthways, double floors
fireproofed between making burning a mighty slow process.
Big Lobby
The theater will have an ornamental entrance, with a 14 foot lobby outside. This
will probably be filled with new Lux-fer Prism glass, which will also be placed
in the side walk at least five feet out from the building in order to light
properly the basement which will extend 10 feet under the sidewalk. The Prism
glass reflects a fine soft light. A stairway leads from this outside lobby to
the second and third floors, will be of iron, up through a well, lighted from
above by a skylight. Below the second floor landing will be a door leading into
two balcony boxes, one on each side of the machine. These will accommodate 12-14
persons each, will be fitted with chairs and reserved for parties when
requested. The fact that the steel ceiling will be 15 feet from the floor makes
it easily possible to install these boxes, which will be a welcome addition.
Sloping Floor
Within the theater, there will be an eight foot lobby. The main floor will slope
a half inch to the foot, making every seat one of vantage to the spectator.
There will be seating accommodations for about 400 persons. The entrance will be
large, and there will be double doored exits at the north side and in the rear,
both to be used in case of emergency.
The stage for the use of the vaudeville artists will be 16x30 feet, with modern
dressing rooms at the rear. The large stage will enable the Shanks to obtain a
higher class of talent than has appeared here before. The picture screen will be
hung at the rear of the stage and will be of the latest kind. The stage will be
five feet high, with an orchestra pit in front.
Chicago Ideas
The semi-indirect lighting system will be used and all equipment will be of the
latest kind. Manager Shanks and Mr. Kendrick will go to Chicago soon to visit
different theaters and get ideas for the finishing of the house. New opera
chairs are to be used.
There will be eight rooms in the second story of the building, to be used either
as offices or dwelling apartments. A bath room will be built, a well drilled and
a water standpipe and necessary hose installed. The fire escape will be modern.
In the third story which is to be but 61 feet long, there will be five
apartments, to be used as rented.
Basement Restaurant
The basement will be large and exceedingly well lighted, and will be a splendid
location for a restaurant. A stairway leads down to it from the main lobby. The
front of the block will be of mat face vitrfied brick, slightly lighter than
that of the Dillon block.
Mr. Dysert is spending a considerable amount of money to make his building
thoroughly modern and is to be congratulated on his public spiritedness. Mr. and
Mrs. Shanks promise shows in keeping with the class of the theater and will
doubtless continue to enjoy a liberal patronage. The opening will take place in
the first part of July.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 8, 1913]
NEW THEATER TO OPEN DEC. 24
Final arrangements have been made for the opening of the new K. G. THEATER on
Christmas eve, Wednesday, December 24th. The initial performance will be
featured with vaudeville acts, three reels of motion pictures and music by an
orchestra of 14 pieces.
The new house when finished, will present a splendid appearance. The room will
accommodate 300 seats far enough apart that no one will have to arise to let
people pass. The lighting is made as nearly perfect as possible. A heavy velvet
rug will cover the entire length of the aisle.
People in all parts of the house will have a good view of the stage as it is
elevated about six feet. The pictures will be cast upon a mirror screen which
can be rolled up when the stage is needed for vaudeville acts. Mr. SHANKS has
purchased one of the best motion picture machines made. It contains a double
magazine feed which enables the operator to handle a two reel picture without
stopping.
The doors on Christmas eve will be opened at 6:30 o'clock.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, December 16, 1913]
CLOSES DOORS
When the K. G. closes its doors after the last show tonight the seats and all
other available property in the building will be taken out and there will be no
more performances in the old building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 20, 1913]
K. G. WILL OPEN
The furnishing and fitting for the new K. G. [THEATER] have arrived and are all
set up and ready for the opening performance tomorrow. There will in all
probability be a matinee tomorrow afternoon, but if not, the doors will open,
for the first time at 7:00. The specialties are The Venetian Trio and Angela and
Mellina. These are reputed to be fine and are just from an engagement on a big
vaudeville circuit. Besides there will be a number of special reels and a
sixteen piece orchestra and a record crowd is expected.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, December 24, 1913]
OPENING PROGRAM PLEASES ALL
The opening of the new K. G. in the Dysert building was attended by over 1,200
people Thursday evening, and all were delighted with the theatre and the program
offered. The first show started at 6:30, when every seat was taken and this rush
lasted till the last show at eleven o'clock, five performances being given.
The K. G. orchestra under the directorship of Prof. Lamont Davidson, furnished
the music for the occasion, and rendered several pleasing special pieces besides
the regular music. George Brower sang "The Lord is My Light." Angelo
and Millino, tumblers from the Eva Tanguay company, gave an exhibition of their
skill and were followed by the Davis Imperial Trio, who rendered several
excellent musical selections. The vaudeville presented last night was all high
class. The pictures shown were all Vitagraph and the two reel feature film
"Under the Daisies" was one of the best ever shown in the city. The
screen for the pictures is made of silvered ground glass and shows the pictures
with a remarkable clearness. If the standard set last night is kept up they can
expect capacity crowds at all times.
Out of Town Guests
C. W. Walker, owner of a moving picture theater in Plymouth, Ind., was in
Rochester Thursday, to inspect the new K. G. Mr. Walker said that Rochester's
new play house was one of the finest in the state. Doctor Sarber, of Argos,
Ind., who is building a new theater, was in Rochester today for the same
purpose.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, December 26, 1913]
NEW POOL ROOM
John and Milton Felts have rented the room formerly occupied by the K. G.
theater and will open an up-to-date pool and billiard hall. The front is now
being torn out and carpenters expect to have the building ready in two weeks.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 5, 1914]
Manager Ray Shanks of the K. G., has finally persuaded Ralph Ravencroft, the
well known local comedian, to appear with his three sons in vaudeville,
Wednesday and Thursday evening of this week, according to an announcement made
Monday.
Mr. Ravencroft has been at his home on the east side of the lake since he closed
a successful winter season in stock at Detroit where he had been taking a
leading part. The Ravencroft boys, age eight, 10 and 12, have been given vocal
training by their father and on several occasions have taken minor parts. Their
program at the local theater will consist of songs, recitations and monologues.
Mr. Ravencroft has announced that he will repeat his famous A.B.C. recitation.
Mr. Ravencroft intends to go into vaudeville and will, with his sons, play a few
engagements in surrounding towns when school is out. The boys, according to
persons who have heard them, form a good quartette with their father. As they
are very well known in Rochester, they will undoubtedly draw capacity houses for
the two nights.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 3, 1915]
RAVENCROFT BOYS' STUNT OVER IN BIG LEAGUE STYLE
Ralph Ravencroft and his three sons, Holden [RAVENCROFT], John [RAVENCROFT] and
Edward [RAVENCROFT], aged respectively 12, nine and eight, put on a vaudeville
stunt that "went over big" at the Kai Gee theater Wednesday night,
playing to several packed houses.
Together with their father, the boys form a quartet that really does sing, their
comedy numbers being especially good. "Home Sweet Home," "Rose of
the Mountain Trail," "You Wore a Tulip etc.," and other numbers
were all rendered cleverly by the quartet, the boys showing themselves already
past the amateur stage. A big future is predicted for them. Mention should be
made of the "A.B.C." specialty and the five reel picture, "How
Casy Made Good." The quartet is on again tonight.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 6, 1915]
MOTION PICTURE THEATER SOLD
All moving picture theaters in Rochester, the K.G., the Paramount and the K.G.
Garden, were sold Thursday to Clyde and Sidney Wilson, brothers, of Knox, Ind.,
for a consideration said to total over $7,000. The new owners will take
possession of the K.G. theater and the K.G. Garden on February 7th while the
Paramount will be turned over on January 17th.
Clyde Wilson has had several years experience in the moving picture game, having
had a house for several years in Argos. The other brother is a traveling
salesman. He is married and the younger man is single. Both will move to
Rochester shortly. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Blausser will leave Rochester at once,
moving to Springfield, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Roy Shanks of the K.G. have no definite
plans for the future, but will probably reside in this city, where they own
property.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, January 6, 1915]
WORK BEGINS
Workmen Monday began to tear out the seats in the K. G. theater, which will be
remodeled for the Racket clothing store.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 20, 1917]
__________
The first of the outdoor motion picture theatres was established by the late
Roy Shanks at about the same time as Mose Kimmel operated a vaudeville theatre
(The Manitou) north of the public square. This writer nightly packed crowed into
the Earle Theatre, present location of the Kroger market (Knapp Building), and
J. Carl Jessen provided poenty of opposition with his Kai-Gee movie house where
now stands the Arthur Shore building (716 Main).
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, August 25, 1958]
KAIN, MICHAEL [Wayne Township]
[See Patrick McGuire]
MICHAEL KAIN MURDERED
Stirring and exciting events have occurred in Wayne township since the last
issue of the Sentinel. Scarcely had this paper left the press last Wednesday
morning when a messenger arrived in town to inform the officials that a horrible
murder has been committed in Wayne township and that Michael KAIN was the
victim. The people of this county need not be told that for years there has been
a continual warfare between the family of Michael Kain and Patrick McGUIRE, all
Irish people who lived on adjoining farms in Wayne township. The enmity between
them was bitter and great, and if reports be true, neither hesitated to do the
other an injury upon every possible occasion. They threw down each other's
fences and opened gates to allow stock to pasture upon their growing crops. Each
accused the other of poisoning their horses, cattle, hogs etc. The heads of the
families met frequently and resorted to the "manly art" to settle
their difficulties, and failing in that, they would resort to the law for
vindication. The circuit court dockets and the dockets of several of the
Justices of the Peace of the county are heavily encumbered with criminal
prosecutions brought by these parties against each other. Each have been made to
contribute liberally to the support of the common schools of the county, but
these episodes only contributed to intensify their hatred of each other. When
the McGuire family went into that township to take up its abode, it was regarded
as very well-to-do. The McGuires came from Cincinnati and brought with them an
outfit of furniture and musical instruments to adorn their home that was the
admiration of all who beheld it and may have excited the envy and jealousy of a
few. But by this warfare of almost fifteen year's duration, their property has
vanished and they are poor indeed. Kain was a well established farmer when the
McGuires came, with plenty of stock on his place and every convenience and
comfort to make life and home pleasant, but much of it is wasted.
The latest quarrel between these two families occurred but a few weeks ago and
was occasioned by McGuire impounding some of Kain's hogs and requiring him to
pay the lawful penalties for their release. Out of that proceeding grew a
hand-to-hand engagement in which the women and men took a part and in which old
Mrs. Kain was badly worsted, her appearance indicating, when she came to town to
file her complaint against her assailants, that she had engaged in combat a
Sullivan or a Ryan. McGuire and his wife were both charged with assault, and
upon a change of venue from a Rochester Justice, the trial was held at Kewanna
where McGuire and his wife were both fined and costed in a sum aggregating about
$75. A motion for a new trial was made and argued Tuesday of last week, the
defendants being given their liberty during the interim from the finding of the
court until the matter of a new trial was determined. When the motion for a
rehearing was argued and a new trial denied, neither McGuire or his wife were
present. The Constable started out to find them, with the authority to receive
the amount of the fine and cost or convey them to jail. Mrs. McGuire was found
at home but the husband did not come within the vision of the officer. With the
one prisoner in custody the officer came to town and turned her over to the
Sheriff. When Pat learned that his wife had been taken to jail it is natural to
suppose that his rage knew no bounds. He has always contended that he was a
victim of persecution by Kain until his substance had been wasted, and now he
had not the means to pay the fine and cost assessed against himself and wife and
save themselves from a prison cell. During that day McGuire kept out of the way
of the officer. His three little boys were at home alone after their mother had
been taken away by the officer. Some time that night McGuire appeared at the
residence of Mrs. GRAUEL, a widow who lives with her daughter in that immediate
vicinity, and asked for a cup of coffee. Upon being informed that there was no
coffee in the house, he took his departure. He returned again sometime that
night and awoke the inmates of the Grauel home. The door was opened for him and
he handed in a package that he said contained coffee, and again took his leave.
Soon after daylight Mrs. Grauel and her daughter heard a cry of distress on the
road in the direction of the Kain residence. Looking out they saw a man coming
towards their house whom they supposed to be McGuire. He went to the well, drew
a bucket of water therefrom and washed, when he again disappeared. When the
women went out to the well they discovered blood spots on the boards at the well
and a bloody rag that they at once identified as a rag that McGuire had on his
hand when he handed them the coffee, except that it was not bloody when they
first saw it.
Kain and his wife are both old people and live entirely alone. He was married to
Rosa [KAIN], his wife, about 12 years ago and that union has not been blessed
with any children. It was the daily custom of this old Irish farmer to arise
early in the morning and go to a distant field on his farm to salt his cattle
and bring up the cows to be milked. In going to the field he went eastward on a
public thoroughfare. Last Wednesday morning he went on his errand as usual.
While on the road, at an early hour, he was assaulted by someone who was
evidently lying in wait for him. The weapon used was a rail and with it the head
of Michael Kain was beaten into an unrecognizable mass, his jaw being broken and
his skull crushed in. No one is known to have seen or heard the encounter except
the Grauel women who heard the cry of Kain. When Kain did not return with the
cows when he should, his wife went to search for him. She found him in a fence
corner dead, mangled in the manner above described. He had been out of her sight
but a half hour, but in that time the horrible deed had been committed. The dark
crime was charged upon McGuire and the entire neighborhood was at once aroused
to assist in the capture. Telegrams were sent to various cities and postal cards
offering a reward of $300 for his arrest were sent far and near, but he is yet
at large.
When the report of the murder reached Rochester, Prosecutor McMAHAN and Esq.
STEPHENSON went to the scene of disaster and held a Coroner's inquest. The
testimony taken is substantially as the facts narrated above. After the
investigation the body of the murdered man was prepared for burial and was
consigned to the silent tomb the following day. Since then several persons have
been examined by the acting coroner and yesterday he went into Wayne township to
pursue his investigations.
Mrs. McGUIRE who was incarcerated in jail for nonpayment of the fine against
her, telegraphed to her husband's youngest brother, at Cincinnati, relating her
trouble and the tragedy of which her husband is accused. He soon put in his
appearance at this place and released her from jail by the payment of her fine.
It is said that the supposed murderer has two brothers in Cincinnati, each well
situated, financially. They are an intelligent family and especially so that
portion of it that has lived in this county. Two of the three McGuire boys, aged
14 and 12 years, were taken into custody last Wednesday but were discharged
after being examined, there being nothing on which they could be held as aiders
or abettors of the tragedy.
A week has now gone by since the murder and no tidings have yet been had of the
supposed murderer except a telegram to Sheriff WALLACE from Sidney, Ohio,
stating that a man answering the description of McGuire was held there for
identification. The sheriff is moving in the matter but at this hour Tuesday 11
a.m. there is no positive proof that he is the man wanted.
Yesterday Sheriff Wallace received a telegram from Medaryville informing him
that a man was held there answering the description of McGuire. Marshal PLOUGH
started immediately to see the man but nothing has yet been heard from him.
It is supposed by many that McGuire is yet in the neighborhood where the deed
was committed, and that may be true. He has a number of warm friends who think
that the Kains have persecuted him and would rejoice to have him escape the
vigilance of the officers. We believe that it may truthfully be said that the
sympathy of a majority of the people in the neighborhood in which the murder was
committed, is with the fugitive. Whether they are justified in their expressions
of friendship, we do not pretend to say. Every man has friends, and it is right
that he should have.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, August 12, 1885]
THE LONG QUARREL BETWEEN THE KAINS AND McGUIRES
ENDED BY THE MURDER OF MICHAEL KAIN
Stirring and exciting events have occurred in Wayne township since the last
issue of the Sentinel. Scarcely had this paper left the press last Wednesday
morning when a messenger arrived in town to inform the officials that a horrible
murder has been committed in Wayne township and that Michael KAIN was the
victim. The people of this county need not be told that for years there has been
a continual warfare between the family of Michael Kain and Patrick McGUIRE, all
Irish people who lived on adjoining farms in Wayne township. The enmity between
them was bitter and great, and if reports be true, neither hesitated to do the
other an injury upon every possible occasion. They threw down each other's
fences and opened gates to allow stock to pasture upon their growing crops. Each
accused the other of poisoning their horses, cattle, hogs etc. The heads of the
families met frequently and resorted to the "manly art" to settle
their difficulties, and failing in that, they would resort to the law for
vindication. The circuit court dockets and the dockets of several of the
Justices of the Peace of the county are heavily encumbered with criminal
prosecutions brought by these parties against each other. Each have been made to
contribute liberally to the support of the common schools of the county, but
these episodes only contributed to intensify their hatred of each other. When
the McGuire family went into that township to take up its abode, it was regarded
as very well-to-do. The McGuires came from Cincinnati and brought with them an
outfit of furniture and musical instruments to adorn their home that was the
admiration of all who beheld it and may have excited the envy and jealousy of a
few. But by this warfare of almost fifteen year's duration, their property has
vanished and they are poor indeed. Kain was a well established farmer when the
McGuires came, with plenty of stock on his place and every convenience and
comfort to make life and home pleasant, but much of it is wasted.
The latest quarrel between these two families occurred but a few weeks ago and
was occasioned by McGuire impounding some of Kain's hogs and requiring him to
pay the lawful penalties for their release. Out of that proceeding grew a
hand-to-hand engagement in which the women and men took a part and in which old
Mrs. Kain was badly worsted, her appearance indicating, when she came to town to
file her complaint against her assailants, that she had engaged in combat a
Sullivan or a Ryan. McGuire and his wife were both charged with assault, and
upon a change of venue from a Rochester Justice, the trial was held at Kewanna
where McGuire and his wife were both fined and costed in a sum aggregating about
$75. A motion for a new trial was made and argued Tuesday of last week, the
defendants being given their liberty during the interim from the finding of the
court until the matter of a new trial was determined. When the motion for a
rehearing was argued and a new trial denied, neither McGuire or his wife were
present. The Constable started out to find them, with the authority to receive
the amount of the fine and cost or convey them to jail. Mrs. McGuire was found
at home but the husband did not come within the vision of the officer. With the
one prisoner in custody the officer came to town and turned her over to the
Sheriff. When Pat learned that his wife had been taken to jail it is natural to
suppose that his rage knew no bounds. He has always contended that he was a
victim of persecution by Kain until his substance had been wasted, and now he
had not the means to pay the fine and cost assessed against himself and wife and
save themselves from a prison cell. During that day McGuire kept out of the way
of the officer. His three little boys were at home alone after their mother had
been taken away by the officer. Some time that night McGuire appeared at the
residence of Mrs. GRAUEL, a widow who lives with her daughter in that immediate
vicinity, and asked for a cup of coffee. Upon being informed that there was no
coffee in the house, he took his departure. He returned again sometime that
night and awoke the inmates of the Grauel home. The door was opened for him and
he handed in a package that he said contained coffee, and again took his leave.
Soon after daylight Mrs. Grauel and her daughter heard a cry of distress on the
road in the direction of the Kain residence. Looking out they saw a man coming
towards their house whom they supposed to be McGuire. He went to the well, drew
a bucket of water therefrom and washed, when he again disappeared. When the
women went out to the well they discovered blood spots on the boards at the well
and a bloody rag that they at once identified as a rag that McGuire had on his
hand when he handed them the coffee, except that it was not bloody when they
first saw it.
Kain and his wife are both old people and live entirely alone. He was married to
Rosa [KAIN], his wife, about 12 years ago and that union has not been blessed
with any children. It was the daily custom of this old Irish farmer to arise
early in the morning and go to a distant field on his farm to salt his cattle
and bring up the cows to be milked. In going to the field he went eastward on a
public thoroughfare. Last Wednesday morning he went on his errand as usual.
While on the road, at an early hour, he was assaulted by someone who was
evidently lying in wait for him. The weapon used was a rail and with it the head
of Michael Kain was beaten into an unrecognizable mass, his jaw being broken and
his skull crushed in. No one is known to have seen or heard the encounter except
the Grauel women who heard the cry of Kain. When Kain did not return with the
cows when he should, his wife went to search for him. She found him in a fence
corner dead, mangled in the manner above described. He had been out of her sight
but a half hour, but in that time the horrible deed had been committed. The dark
crime was charged upon McGuire and the entire neighborhood was at once aroused
to assist in the capture. Telegrams were sent to various cities and postal cards
offering a reward of $300 for his arrest were sent far and near, but he is yet
at large.
When the report of the murder reached Rochester, Prosecutor McMAHAN and Esq.
STEPHENSON went to the scene of disaster and held a Coroner's inquest. The
testimony taken is substantially as the facts narrated above. After the
investigation the body of the murdered man was prepared for burial and was
consigned to the silent tomb the following day. Since then several persons have
been examined by the acting coroner and yesterday he went into Wayne township to
pursue his investigations.
Mrs. McGUIRE who was incarcerated in jail for nonpayment of the fine against
her, telegraphed to her husband's youngest brother, at Cincinnati, relating her
trouble and the tragedy of which her husband is accused. He soon put in his
appearance at this place and released her from jail by the payment of her fine.
It is said that the supposed murderer has two brothers in Cincinnati, each well
situated, financially. They are an intelligent family and especially so that
portion of it that has lived in this county. Two of the three McGuire boys, aged
14 and 12 years, were taken into custody last Wednesday but were discharged
after being examined, there being nothing on which they could be held as aiders
or abettors of the tragedy.
A week has now gone by since the murder and no tidings have yet been had of the
supposed murderer except a telegram to Sheriff WALLACE from Sidney, Ohio,
stating that a man answering the description of McGuire was held there for
identification. The sheriff is moving in the matter but at this hour Tuesday 11
a.m. there is no positive proof that he is the man wanted.
Yesterday Sheriff Wallace received a telegram from Medaryville informing him
that a man was held there answering the description of McGuire. Marshal PLOUGH
started immediately to see the man but nothing has yet been heard from him.
It is supposed by many that McGuire is yet in the neighborhood where the deed
was committed, and that may be true. He has a number of warm friends who think
that the Kains have persecuted him and would rejoice to have him escape the
vigilance of the officers. We believe that it may truthfully be said that the
sympathy of a majority of the people in the neighborhood in which the murder was
committed, is with the fugitive. Whether they are justified in their expressions
of friendship, we do not pretend to say. Every man has friends, and it is right
that he should have.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, August 12, 1885]
McGUIRE CAPTURED!
Just when the public had settled down to the quiet conviction that Patrick
McGuire, who is accused of the murder of Michael Kain, had made good his escape
and would never more be heard of in this community, a message came to Sheriff
Wallace stating that he had been captured in Tennessee and instructing him to
come and get the prisoner.
The circumstances of the murder are yet fresh in the minds of the public and
need not now be repeated. The McGuire and Kain families quarrelled, fought and
had lawsuits innumerable. The feud between them became of a deadly character. On
the morning of the 3d day of last August Kain went out at an early hour to feed
his stock in a field distant from his home. A half hour after he was found dead
in a fence corner, his head and body horribly mangled, having been beaten to
death with a club or a piece of a rail. Patrick McGuire, whose wife was then in
jail and a mittimus in the hands of the officer for his committment for failing
to pay a fine assessed against him for a former assault upon Kain, was seen in
the immediate vicinity where the murder was committed, a few minutes after the
deed was done. He escaped from the community and the vigilance of the officers
and was not heard from until last Saturday when Sheriff Wallace received word
that he was held at Coultersville, a small mountain town in Tennessee. Wallace
left here last Saturday afternoon and went direct to Tennessee, followed by
George Holman who stopped at Indianapolis to get a requisition from Gov. Gray to
the governor of Tennessee. Wallace and Holman are expected to arrive with the
prisoner to-day.
Although the reward offered for the capture of McGuire was small, detectives
have been at work diligently, encouraged in their labors by private
contributions from the friends of the deceased Kain. Chief in the work was
detective M. J. Gallagher, of Logansport, and to his efforts more than to any
other man is due the glory of his capture. He has worked incessantly since the
day of the murder and finally met with success. McGuire has two brothers, one
residing at Cincinnati and said to be quite wealthy. It was he who came here
last August, after the murder, and paid the fine and costs assessed against Mrs.
Pat McGuire and released her from jail. After remaining in the county a few days
he returned to his home via Loganport. While in that city detective Gallagher
took a complete photograph of him to aid him in his efforts to find his brother,
knowing that at some time the Cincinnati brother would go to see his fugitive
brother.
Another McGuire is a steamboatman on the Ohio river. One day last week he made
an excuse to go to Tennessee on a hunting expedition but more especially to see
the hiding brother. While there he met with an accident on a boat and word was
telegraphed to his brother in Cincinnati that he was drowned. He went
immediately to bring his lifeless body home, and, of course, a detective
followed him. When he got there he found that his brother was not drowned and he
then improved the opportunity of visiting his brother Pat who was hiding in the
mountain fastness. The detective was close at hand when the brothers met in the
wilderness and had no difficulty in making Patrick a prisoner. Pat was going
under an assumed name of John Moore and positively denied being the man that was
wanted, but he finally admitted his identity and consented to return to Indiana
without the formalities of a requisition. When he arrives here, which will
probably at noon to-day, he will be confined in the jail and as the circuit
court is in session, have the benefit of a speedy trial if he so desires it.
The evidence against McGuire is principally circumstantial, but it is very
strong. If his brother at Cincinnati is as wealthy as he is reported to be, a
strong defense will be made for him, and the prosecution will lack nothing in
vigor. It is by no means probable however that the case will be tried at this
term of court or that it will ever be tried in this county.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 25, 1885]
KALE
See Bitters & Kale
KAMMERER BLACKSMITH SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Camerer Blacksmith Shop
See: Rochester, Indiana [Historical Review]
__________
Christian Kamerer, Blacksmith. Shop in Adam Shmetzer's old Cooper Shop in
rear of Hickman's Bakery.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 23, 1859]
Christ. Kamerer would inform the public that from and after the 1st day
Septeber, he will adopt the Ready Pay system for all work done at his shop.
In all cases, payment must be made, either in cash or trade, before the work
leaves the shop. Rochester, August 29, 1861.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 31, 1861]
New Brick Shop. Mr. Chris. Kamerer, our veteran blacksmith, is building him a
new brick shop, 22 x 41. Mr. Keely has the contract and commenced the work last
week . . . He tells us that the brick used are made by Mr. Norris, at his
brickyard one mile south of town and are of a very good quality. . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 25, 1867]
Christian Kamerer, Blacksmith and Manufacturer of Wagons, Carriages, &c.
General repairing done to order on short notice. Particular attention paid to
Horseshoeing, at the New Brick Blacksmith Shop, on Main Street, north of
Cornelius' new building. Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, October 17, 1867]
[NOTE: Christian KAMMERER, d. Aug. 29, 1885, ae 59y-2m-27d, bur Rochester
I.O.O.F. cemetery. -- WCT]
KANE, HARRY WILSON [Chicago, Illinois]
HARRY KANE IN JAIL
The Chicago Record Herald of this morning's issue contained an article of
interest to those of this city who remember Harry Wilson Kane, the young man
from Chicago who married Miss Carrie, the daughter of Col. Shryock, of this
city. It says, "Because Harry Wilson Kane, formerly president of the
Princess Shirtwaist Co., 255 Wabash Avenue, which had some financial
difficulties some time ago, now a member of the firm of Appleton & Kane,
failed to pay $496 alimony to his wife and as a result is now in jail. Kane told
the court that the reason he didn't pay it was because he didn't have the
money."
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 12, 1905]
KARN, HARRY [Rochester/Macy, Indiana]
HARRY KARN PURCHASES CLOUD STORE AT MACY
The Cloud & Son grocery and department store at Macy has been sold to Harry
Karn it was announced today. The purchaser who has been employed in the Coffee
Shop here for several years is well known in this city. He has taken possession
of the store. Mr. Karn will discontinue some of the departments of the store at
Macy. He has considerable experience in the business in which he is now engaged.
A store bearing the name of Cloud has been in operation at Macy for the past 56
years. For the past 27 years Otto Cloud has been the manager of the Macy store.
Mr. Cloud will now devote his entire time to his stores in Fulton, Bourbon and
Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, June 13, 1933]
KARN, J. A. [Rochester, Indiana]
J. A. Karn has opened an up-to-date meat market in connection with his grocery
store. Phone your order.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 7, 1912]
TAYLOR WILL OPEN MEAT SHOP
The many friends of Charles Taylor of this city will be somewhat surprised to
learn that he is to re-engage in the meat market business in Rochester. Some
time ago he sold his business at the corner of Main and Ninth streets to L. C.
Kistler and went on the road as a traveling salesman for a Chicago meat packing
firm. However, after a few weeks he found that the work did not agree with him
and he resigned. Now he has purchased the Jacob Karn meat shop in the north end
and will move the fixtures to the room south of the court house which was
formerly occupied by the "Bud" Ware wholesale liquor house. Mr. Taylor
is well known in the local business world in the meat business and will, no
doubt, prove as successful this time as he has heretofore.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 13, 1912]
KARN, OREN I. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Arlington
See Rochester Baking Co.
__________
NEWS OF THE DAY
Dora Murphy, proprietor of the North End restaurant, retired from active
business Saturday night. Mr. Murphy's health has been failing for the last year,
and he was advised by his physician to take a complete rest. So for a while he
will not do anything but enjoy life, and will depend upon Oren Karn to see that
the restaurant is managed properly.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 4, 1907]
MODERN STEAM BAKERY
Rochester is to have a steam bakery in the very near future, Oren Karn of the
American being the proprietor.
The room chosen is the Noftsger room, formerly occupied by the Fred Perschbacher
saloon, which is said to be the most sanitary for the purpose in the city. Mr.
Karn has purchased the largest portable brick oven made and it is now being
installed. When all is in readiness Rochester people will be able to get the
best steam baked bread on the market in this city.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 9, 1909]
[Adv] NONE but pure food stuffs enter into any of our bakery products, and
the sanitary conditions of our bakery are unquestionably right. Therefore, you
get only pure, wholesome and clean bread and pastry here. O. M. KARN, Restaurant
and Bakery, 715 Main street.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 23, 1910]
SOLD OUT INTEREST
Through a deal which was closed today, one of the members of the Rochester
Baking Company - Oren Karn - disposed of his holding to the other two members,
T. A. Murphy and R. P. True. It is understood that while the business is a
financial success, it is still a type too small to be split three ways and Mr.
Karn decided to withdraw in favor of his partners. Another reason for his
getting loose from the bakery is the fact that his sole attention is needed at
his restaurant - the American - to which his entire time will now be directed.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, December 27, 1911]
SHORT NEWS
Oren Karn has leased the second and third floors of the new Dysert building and
will conduct a modern rooming house in connection with the American Cafe.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 3, 1913]
BIOGRAPHY
Oren I. Karn, whose achievements are signalized by highly diversified fields of
endeavor, was born in Miami county, Indiana, June 13, 1886, the son of Reuben S.
and Millicent (Murphy) Karn. He attended the public schools of his home
community until he was thirteen years of age, giving up his studies at that time
to work in the butcher shop with his father. For two years he continued in the
employment of his father, and desiring a change, he then accepted a position as
clerk with the firm of Crim and Showley. He worked in this capacity for some
time and then went to work for the C. A. Kilmer Company, dealers in meat and
meat products. He subsequently bought out the meat department of that business,
but after managing it for a while, he sold it to go to California. His sojourn
in that state was of short duration, for he returned to Rochester at the end of
six months, assuming the management of the T. A. Murphy restaurant and bakery.
In a short while he purchased the American Restaurant which he sold in 1922 to
Percy Hawkins. He established another restaurant known as the Coffee Shop a
little north of his old place of business on Main Street, and here he conducts
an excellent eating house and bakery, both of which are fitted up with the most
modern equipment. In conjunction with the restaurant, he conducts a small but
excellent hotel situated across the street from his restaurant. Not content to
confine his activities to these two ventures, he opened the Style Furnishing
Store on North Main street, and this enterprise has also proved to be a highly
successful one, a monument to the intelligence and energy of the man. The year
1911 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Karn and Margaret O. Kane to whom have been
born two children, Harold A. and Emma D. Mr. Karn is a member of the Knights of
Pythias and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 222-223, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
KARN, R. S. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NOTICE! For a first class Pork, Beef, Veal, or Mutton roast, the best of
smoked meats and the finest grade of dressed chickens at all times, on short
order, try R. S. KARN, North End Meat Market. Phone 17. Prompt delivery to all
parts of town.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 13, 1901]
KARN BROS. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NOTICE. Keep your eyes on the North End Meat Market for low prices - - - -KARN
BROS, phone 55.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 14, 1908]
KARN & CONNER [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NORTH END MEAT MARKET. Finest line of Fresh, Pickled and Smoked Meats,
Game, Fish, Oysters, etc. Free delivery to city customers. Telephone 17, Karn
& Conner.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 11, 1899]
[NOTICE] Busness changed by mutual consent. L. P. Conner is retiring from the
Karn & Conner meat market. He will be in business for himself in the Holeman
room, two doors north of Murphy's restaurant. This new up to date market will
meet with all requirements of the pure food law.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 3, 1908]
KARN & SON [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Don't forget J. A. Karn & Son when ordering Saturday's groceries. Phone
467-01. Deliveries made in any part of town.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 10, 1911]
[Adv] J. A. KARN & SON, Successors to J. W. Millice. Dealers in Staple
and Fancy Groceries. - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 1, 1911]
NORTH END GROCERY SOLD
The north end grocery owned and operated for the past few years by J. A. Karn
& Son has been sold to Charles Hoover of this city, who took possession this
morning. Mr. Hoover, who is a well known former resident of Rochester and who
moved back to this city last May, is one of the well known citizens of this city
and his experience along grocery lines well fits him.
Mr. Karn, who has had active charge of the business during his absence at
college, [sic] retires with the best wishes of his many friends for a successful
future business course. At present he is undecided, but it may be he will remove
to Lafayette, where he will conduct a boarding house and at the same time accept
a fine position, which he has been offered.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, December 9, 1912]
KARN & TRANBARGER [Rochester, Indiana]
FACTORY SOLD
Karn & Tranbarger, who have been operating the ice cream factory on N. Main
street for the last year, sold out today to Henry Meyer, who was a former
partner of Tranbarger.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 11, 1913]
KARN BAKERY [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Again a Big Slash in the Cost of Living. A big 2-pound loaf of KARN'S
TASTY MAID BREAD now selling at all groceries for only 10¢ per loaf. THE KARN
BAKERY, Rochester, Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, November 17, 1931]
BUYS BAKERY IN CHICAGO
Friends in this city have been advised that Jay "Clayton, for 30 years head
baker at the Karn Bakery here, has purchased a bakery at 5919 South Halstead
street in Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Clayton, who are now residing in Chicago, took
possession on April 1st.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, April 14, 1942]
KARN COFFEE SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Located W side of street at 716 Main.
See Coffee Shop
See Lake Manitou, Big Band Era
See Styles Furnishing Store
__________
MANY BUSINESS MOVES WILL BE MADE IN CITY
The News-Sentinel was reliably informed Wednesday afternoon of several changes
in business houses which will move in this city within the next six weeks which
will include the discontunuance of a store, the opening of another establishment
and the changing of the location of two others.
The store which will be closed is the Styles Furnishing Store in the J. F.
Dysert building operated for five years by Oren Karn and sold by him to M. Wile
and Sons three weeks ago. Mr. Karn, who is the owner of the Coffee Shop and also
the Dysert building, will move his popular cafe into the room vacated by the
Styles Store.
The room which will be vacated in the Fredonia block by the Coffee Shop will be
occupied by the Turner Sisters Millinery store which will be moved from their
present location one door north of the room which they will occupy.
The room vacated by the Turner Sisters and the one which foromerly housed the
postoffice will be the home of a new mercantile establishment which will feature
popular priced ladies ready to wear, men's clothing, shoes, dry goods, and
ladies and gents furnishings.
The owners of the new store the News-Sentinel is not at this time permitted to
make public. This establishment will be opened about September 1 or just as soon
as the store can be equipped and openings made between the two rooms.
Mr. Karn will move the Coffee Shop to its new location sometime within the next
four weeks or just as soon as the room in the Dysert building has been altered
so that it will be ready for occcupancy by the restaurant.
Lyman Brackett, who is the owner of the Fredonia block will start on Friday
morning to make the changes in the rooms wished by his tenants.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 21, 1926]
NEW COFFEE SHOP OPENS DOORS SATURDAY MORNING
With the opening of the Coffee Shop this morning, at its new location, 710 Main
street, Rochester can now boast of a real modern, big-town restaurant. Visitors
in this establishment throughout the day were astounded with the beauty and
neatness of the place, and Mr. Oren Karn, proprietor, was accorded countless
complimentary remarks concerning the beauty of the new establishment.
The interior of the cafe has been remodeled and finished in a mottled gray
effect with a narrow black line trimming, while the side walls and ceiling fades
away into a mellow ivory. Indirect lighting fixtures in the form of mammoth
bowls and individual table-wall candelabra give the room a bright and cheerful
appearance. The floor is covered with inlaid pattern of gray and black linoleum.
New fixtures, tables and linen all in lily whiteness add greatly to the
attractiveness.
Floral offerings received from local business associates, line the counters and
side walls from end to end of this spacious room making a veritable bower of
beauty and fragrance. The formal opening of this shop will start Sunday at 11:30
and continue until the middle of the afternoon. Van Lynn and his orchestra will
furnish music for this occasion and plans are being made to accommodate over
three hundred people during the hours of the opening.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, September 4, 1926]
[Adv] Dempsey-Tunney FIGHT RETURNS by Radio tomorrow night in the basement of
COFFEE SHOP. Plenty of Chairs. Everybody Welcome. Come! Free!
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, September 22, 1926]
KARN HOTEL [Rochester, Indiana]
FOGLESONG HAS LEASED ROOMS FOR NEW HOTEL
Henry Foglesong, proprietor of the Midway Cafe and Annex, corner Main and Sixth
streets, has leased the rooms over the Racket clothing store in the Karn
building, formerly operated as a rooming establishment by Mrs. Millicent Karn.
Mr. Foglesong will operate the plase as a small European hotel and plans to take
it over by April 1.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 17, 1921]
FOGLESONG'S CAFE CHANGES HANDS
Announcement has been made of the purchase by George Newman, formerly connected
with the Progress Bottling works of the Foglesong Cafe on the corner of Main and
Sixth streets. The deal was consumated Friday morning, Newman taking possession
at once. Mr. Foglesong says that he will condinue to conduct the "Karn"
hotel.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 9, 1923]
KARN HOTEL SOLD
The Karn Hotel was sold Wednesday to Mr. and Mrs. George Andres, of Peru, the
new owners to take possession Monday. Mr. and Mrs. Foglesong have leased the
Frain Hotel at Winamac, and will take possession July 21st.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 14, 1923]
KARNS, JOSEPH [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Joseph Karns)
KATHERMAN, ISAIAH [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Isaiah Katherman, one of the highly esteemed agriculturists of Newcastle
township, was born in Union county, Pa., May 12, 1844, and comes of that sturdy
German stock, which forms such an important and valued element in our American
nationality. His father, Philip Katherman, was born in Union county, Pa., in
1804, and there died in 1857. He was of German lineage, as was his wife,
Patience Heisy, who died in 1871, at the age of sixty-three years, leaving six
children, four of whom survive, namely: Andrew, of Mifflinburg, Pa.; Emanuel, of
Louisburg, Pa.; Mary, wife of Thomas Hare, of Union county, Pa., and our
subject. Isaiah Katherman, when twenty-four years of age, became a resident of
Kosciusko county, Ind., and there followed farming until 1836, when he came to
Fulton county and purchased his present farm, which has undergone important
changes in appearance. He has materially enlarged the residence and beautified
its grounds, also erected a large barn, cleared many additional acres of land,
and has put in one thousand rods of ditch, so that he now owns one of the best
improved and most desirable farms of the township. Mr. Katherman's labors as an
agriculturist have been interrupted only by his service in the army. He made for
himself an honorable military record, although little more than a school boy
when he enlisted at Harrisburg in company A, One Hundred and Thirty-first
Pennsylvania infantry for nine months. The regiment was first engaged in
opposing Lee's attempted invasion of the north and participated in the battle of
Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. Mr. Katherman then returned to
Pennsylvania, for his time had expired, but soon re-enlisted, joining company K,
of the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania infantry. On leaving this command he entered
the Third heavy artillery, for service at Fotress Monroe, but found that the
quota there was filled, and was transferred to company B, One Hundred and
Eighty-eighth Pennsylvania infantry, with which he went to Yorktown,
participating in all the arduous service in Virginia with Gen. Grant in 1864.
This service included the battles of Cold Harbor, seven Pines, Burmuda Hundred
and Deep Bottom, which led to the imprisonment of the Confederates in Richmond.
He also participated in the capture of Fort Harris, the battles of Dutch Gap and
Petersburg, and entered the rebel capital as Lee was evacuating it. After the
surrender, his regiment went to Danville, Va., doing guard duty there for some
months. Mr. Katherman was mustered out at City Point, Va., receiving his
discharge at Philadelphia, with the rank of sergeant. In August, 1886, was
celebrated the marriage of Mr. Katherman and Susan Smith, daughter of Leonard
Smith, a native of Pennsylvania, who removed to Indiana. They have one son,
Boyd, born in May, 1890. Mr. Katherman is a stalwart republican, deeply
interested in the success of his party, but has no desire for public office.
Socially he is connected with James Raber post, G.A.R., of Mentone.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 92-93]
KAY JEWELRY STORE
See: Wile Department Store
KEEL, BESS [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Wile Department Store
KEEL, BURL [Rochester, Indiana]
See Maglecic & Keel
KEEL, CARL [Rochester, Indiana]
CARL KEEL RESIGNS
Carl Keel, who has been the auditor of the Rochester Bridge Company for the past
ten years, has resigned his position and accepted one as the traveling auditor
of the Studebaker Automobile Company of South Bend in the dealers division. Mr.
Keel will assume his new position on July 6. Mr. and Mrs. Keel will store their
household goods. Mrs. Keel will divide her time traveling with her husband whose
territory comprises the entire United States and residing with her parents, Mr.
and Mrs. C. B. Carlton.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, June 26, 1926]
KEEL, OTIS [Rochester, Indiana]
POOL ROOM CHANGED HANDS
The pool room and cigar store operated for the past several months by Otis Keel,
west of the court house, was sold Tuesday afternoon by the proprietor to George
Clark. The new owner took possession at once and will strive to run an
up-to-date place of business. Mr. Clark has lived in the vicinity of Rochester
for a number of years and no doubt will be able to draw considerable patronage
from his many friends. The retiring owner has not decided on his future course
of action.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 14, 1912]
KEEL, STELLA [Rochester, Indiana]
MILLINERY STORE SOLD
Miss Stella Keel having bought my store and taken possession July 6, solicits
the continuance of the patronage. Having had fine experience herself, she has
hired a firstclass trimmer of ten years experience. She will continue to give
perfect satisfaction. She asks her many friends to call. Mrs. E. Martindale.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 6, 1904]
KEELARTS PLANT [Rochester, Indiana]
KEELARTS, NEW LOCAL INDUSTRY, ESTABLISHED
Established in the rear of the Moore Brothers office is a new Rochester
enterprise which seems destined to develop into a leading activity in the city.
It is the Keelarts Company - - - production of commercial oil paintings,
industrial placards, window displays, waterproof signs and posters.
Glen I. Keel, a talented individual, is designer and artist; with him is his
brother, Rex, and associated with the Keels is the Moore Brothers firm. The
Keels have moved their equipment from Indianapolis, because of increased
business, so that the Moores may have closer contact with them. The present
capacity -- about 5,000 posters a day, will be increased greatly soon.
A number of attractive contracts have been secured, including making of cards
for all the Ohio and Indiana buses, the A. & P. Stores, Inc., Montgomery
& Ward, and several of the leading fireworks companies.
The Keels have moved to this community, now residing at the lake. Glen Keel's
versatility is indicated by the fact that for eight years he was in vaudeville
on the Keith circuit as a monologist sculptor and an artist he has won prizes
for oratory.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, July 13, 1925]
LOCAL POSTER FACTORY GAINS IN REPUTATION
The reputation of Keelarts, local color poster making industry, is spreading as
is evidenced by recent orders. Thursday an order for 5,000 car cards in seven
colors was received from the Wrigley Chewing Gum company, largest manufacturers
of chicle products in the world. Keelarts is just completing an order of 3,000
window show cards for the Atlantic & Pacific Tea company which posters will
be placed in the windows of each of the company's chain stores.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, August 27, 1925]
KEELARTS RECEIVE AN EXTRA LARGE ORDER
Work started today at the Keel Arts plant, makers of advertising placards and
signs, on a $7,000 order received from a large mercantile house in Chicago. This
order will keep the art force going at top speed until the middle of September.
The management stated they were putting on an extra force of workers at their
West Ninth street building.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, July 15, 1926]
CITY LOSES INDUSTRY, ART CO. MOVES WED.
The Keel Arts company, makers of processed advertising placards, which was
established in this city 13 months ago, combining interests with the Moore Bros.
publishing company, of this city, on Monday closed a deal with the Mellett
Publishing Co., of Indianapolis, which will take this growing industry to
Indianapolis. Moving vans will on Wednesday carry stock and equipment from their
West Ninth street location to the Gibson building, corner North Capitol and
Michigan street, Indianapolis.
Richard L. Mellett, owner of the $60,000 Mellett publishing plant, puchased the
Moore Bros. interests, and with Glen I. Keel has formed a new corporation to be
known as the Keelarts-Mellett Co., Ind. Mellett, who is a brother to the late
Canton News editor, Don C. Mellett, is president and Glen I. Keel will have the
office of secretary-treasurer in the new merger. This firm will now have unique
distinction of being the only process printing establishment in the United
States, and orders arriving from recent announcements of the new project,
presage a thriving growth for the firm.
Accompanying the removal of the industry the following employees will take up
their residence in Indianapolis: Rex Keel and Stewart Scobie in art department,
Robert Riddle and Bernard Wallace in the mechanical division. The local plant
has just finished a $6,000 order in the record time of three weeks employing a
force of from 12 to 15 local people.
Glen Keel, inventor and patent-holder of process printing method stated he is
now working on several new departures in oil reproduction through silk screening
which will enable them to produce exact duplications of half-tones, Ben Days,
pastel, paintings, in multi-colors, at a cost below any of the present methods
of printing.
Rochester deeply regrets the loss of this local industry and the departure of
the Keels and their talented employees, however, the city of Indianapolis
affords a much broader scope for commercial growth and manufacturing advantages.
Moore Bros. retiring partners, now state they will devote their entire time to
the promotion of the Chester White Journal and club extension work.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, August 10, 1926]
KEELARTS-MELLETT FIRM OPERATED BY RECEIVER
Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 21 - (I.N.S.) "Business as usual," was the
key note today of Ralph Jones, Indianapolis attorney, as he assumed charge of
the affairs of the Keelarts-Mellett Company, Inc., as a "friendly
receiver."
"We will cut down the number of employes, plug up every possible expense
leak and pull the company out of its financial difficulties," Jones
predicted.
The receivership was a "friendly" one, Jones explained.
"The two largest creditors of the company expressed their desire to
cooperate to help the company on its financial feet," Jones said.
The receivership action was brought by the Rogers Typesetting Company of
Indianapolis, which had a claim of $1,000 and the Crescent Paper Company, also
of Indianapolis, which had a claim of $3,000.
In Gibson Building
The Keelarts-Mellett Company occupies the fifth floor of the Gibson Building
here. The company does color art printing such as the printing of oil paint
display cards. It employed on the average, 25 persons.
General poor business conditions were blamed by Jones for the firm's troubles.
"High cost of materials and lack of working capital," was the
explanation of the firm's difficulties made by R. L. Mellett, president of the
firm. Mellett was confident that "everything would come out all
right."
The Keelarts Mellett Company, Inc., grew out of the merger last July of the
Mellett Printing Company of Indianapolis and the Keelarts company of Rochester,
Indiana. The Rochester company moved here at that time. Mellet, who had been
connected with the printing business for sixteen years, became president of the
merged concern while G. I. Keel of Rochester, president of the Keelarts Company,
became the vice-president of the combined firm. The capitalization of the
Indianapolis incorporation was $25,000.
Once Partners of Moore Bros.
Moore Bros. Publishers of the Chester White Journal were at one time in a
partnership with Glen Keel operating their multi-colored placard business under
firm name of Keelarts in the old Beyer building on west 9th street. Several
people were employed by this industry. When partnership was dissolved last July,
Stewart Seobie, artist and Robert Riddle of this city left with Keel, to take up
their duties in the Indianapolis plant.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 21, 1927]
KEELY, SAMUEL [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
This gentleman, perhaps as widely known throughout the county in which he lives
as any other man, was born in Shelby County, Ind., March 23, 1827, of German and
Irish descent. His early experience and years were in a like channel and trend
as most all other youths, digressing from the ordinary routine of school life to
the work of learning his trade as brick mason. At the age of seven years, he
moved with his parents to Indianapolis, where he resided until he became a
resident of Fulton County in 1853. It was during his residence in Indianapolis
that he first began to use the trowel as an assistant of his father. As before
stated, he came with his parents to Fulton County in 1853, and located on what
is known as the Keely farm, in the western part of Rochester Township. Here he
found employment in tilling the soil and prosecuting the work of his trade. On
the 4th day of October, 1860, at the age of twenty-four years, he was united in
marriage to Miss Maria Ernsperger, a native of Sandusky County, Ohio, born
January 1, 1843, and at that time a resident of Fulton County. To these parents
were born four children--Helen V., born July 8, 1861; Nettie, born November 14,
1862; Maggie, born November 27, 1869; and Harry S., born January 5, 1875. Two
years after marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Keely became residents of Rochester, where he
immediately embarked in the dry goods business along with his interest as
salesman of agricultural implements. In this business he continued up to the
year 1870, when he was elected Clerk of the county by his party. He filled this
position for one term of four years, and in the election of 1874 was re-elected
to the same office, serving in all eight years as a public official. Soon after
his retirement from office, he, accompanied by his family, became residents of
Cambria, Wis., where he purchased a large flouring mill and began the
manufacture of flour on an extensive scale. All went well for several months,
when on the 16th of June, 1880, a destructive fire swept his mill away. He then
returned to his old home in Rochester, where he now resides, and where he is
taking an active part in various enterprises for the upbuilding of the county.
His parents, James and Mary Keely, now living, are natives of Ohio. James is a
brick mason by trade. He came to Indiana in 1822 and has until late years
followed farming as a part of his life work. He is yet full of life and energy,
and can handle the trowel with considerable dexterity. Christopher and Julia
Ernsperger, the parents of Mrs Keely, were natives of Maryland, and came to
Fulton County in 1858, where he purchased a large tract of land, and made a
beautiful farm in the northwestern part of Rochester Township, but left the farm
and became residents of Rochester in 1872, where he deceased on May 10, 1878,
and where his aged companion still lives among a large circle of friends.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 23]
BIOGRAPHY
Samuel Keely, ex-clerk of Fulton county, was born in Shelby county, Ind., March
23, 1836. At seven years of age his father took him to Indianapolis, and resided
till he was seventeen, when he located on a farm in this county. At twenty-six
years of age he moved to Rochester and engaged in the dry goods business with F.
B. Ernsperger. He withdrew from this firm in eighteen months and worked at his
trade, laying brick. We find him next with A. J. Holmes & Co. in the
implement business. In this line he was an employee two years, and the following
three years was the proprpetor of the business. In 1870 he was nominated by the
democratic party for county clerk and was elected by a majority of 161. The
efficiency of his service can best be judged by the size of his majority for a
second term, in 1874, when he defeated his opponent by 418 votes. He bought a
grist-mill in Cambria, Wis., in 1880, equipped it completely and ran it only
four weeks, when it burned to the ground. He came back to Rochester and together
with Charles Caffyn and Daniel Agnew built the Rochester gravel road, of which
he was superintendent from 1883 to December, 1895, when Fulton county bought the
property. Mr. Keely owns a fine 160-acre farm two miles from Argos, Marshall
county. Oct. 4, 1860, Mr. Keely maried in this county Miss E. M., a daughter of
Christopher Ernsperger, who was born in Maryland, moved West to Ohio and thence
to Indiana. He died in this county June 16, 1877, aged seventy-two years. His
wife weas Julia A. Ensminger, now living in Rochester at nearly eighty-four
years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Keely's children are: Helen V., wife of H. A. Reiter,
of Hammond,Ind.; Annetta, educated in Rochester and Terre Haute; Margaret L.,
and Harry S. Mr. Keely is of German descent. Samuel Keely, grandfather of out
subject, was born in Pennsylvania, was a farmer and mechanic. He settled first
in Butler county, Ohio, on leaving his old home, and in 1818 became a pioneer
settler in Shelby county, Ind. He died in Indianapolis in 1848, aged fifty-six.
He was a successfl business man and by his marriage with Catherine McGee was the
father of ten children, six of whom are living: Oliver, William H. and Samuel,
who are in Indianapolis, and Eliza J., Mrs. John McFall and Mrs. Caroline
Varney, who are in Decatur county, Ind. James Keely, father of our subject, was
born in Butler county, Ohio, Aug. 18, 1812. He was a mason by trade, a man of
robust constitution and of industrious habits. He died in Rochester in 1892. He
was once county commissioner of this county. In early manoood was a democrat,
but in 1857 became a republican. He married in Shelby county, Ind., Mary A.,
daugher of Anthony W. McKee, who was born in Butler county, Ohio, was a farmer
and served as a soldier in the western department of the United States army
during the war of 1812. He married Nancy Agnew, who bore him ten children, all
of whom are deceased. James Keely's children were: Samuel, Nancy, widow of
Thomas J. McAnally; Catherine, deceased, married to John Collins; Mary J.,
deceased, wife of Adam Ault; Phoebe, deceased, married to Thomas Gilchrist;
Sarah A., wife of John Ault, living in Oklahoma; Frances, widow of William
Brough, a resident of Rochester; Julia A., widow of Joseph Carr, of
Indianapolis; Anthony W., of Hartford City, Ind., and Caroline, wife of William
Stubbs, of Marion, Ind. His life has been an active one, and his success in
business has enabled him to accumulate an ample fortune.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 93-94]
KEELY & CORNELIUS [Rochester, Indiana]
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Notice is hereby given that the firm of Keely & Cornelius, doing a hardware
business in the down of Rochester, is dissolved by mutual consent. The business
will be continued by Fred. H. Cornelius who is authorized to make collections of
all accounts due the firm, and an early settlement either by cash or note must
be made by all owing the firm. SAML. KEELY, FRED H. CORNELIUS.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 28, 1891]
KEESEY LAKE [Henry Township]
Located approximately 950E and 375S.
KEITH, George P. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
See: Dawson, George V.
__________
"NON-SKIDDABLE" AUTO INVENTED
A device which may bring him a fortune is now being perfected by G.P. Keith,
well known ex-druggist, who has invented several other things of considerable
promise. Mr. Keith's newest production is a "non-skiddable"
automobile.
When seen today, he refused to talk of his work, saying that he had not even
applied for a patent on it, and would not do so until he has a model ready. He
declared that any kind of an auto may use the attachment and added that it had
nothing whatever to do with tires, any kind of which, he declared, might be used
with his device.
He stated that he was certain that his invention would work, and told the
Sentinel reporter that he could convince him he was right, in half an hour's
time. However he refused to explain the principle of his invention.
May Mean Fortune
If Mr. Keith has really solved the problem which has so long bothered motortists,
he has a comfortable fortune in view. Details will be announced as soon as the
patent is secured.
Mr. Keith has worked out a number of other interesting devices, among them being
a railway crossing which seemed a success, but which was never pushed. He also
aided in perfecting the Miller fire escape, which was at one time manufactured
here and which later proved not to be in demand.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 1, 1913]
KEITH, SIDNEY [Rochester, Indiana]
Sidney Keith, Attorney and Counsellor at Law. Office up stairs on the North west
corner of Main and Washington streets, opposite I. W. Holeman's Drug Store,
Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
Insure against loss by fire . . . Sidney Keith, agent for Fulton county,
Rochester, March 28, 1861.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 8 1862]
JUDGE KEITH GONE
Judge Sidney KEITH, the venerable lawyer and jurist passed away at his home
early Sunday morning at the ripe old age of 86. He had been slowly drifting
toward life's close for some time and his passing out was the result of good old
age.
Judge Keith was born in Winslow, Maine, and grew up there. He was amtitious to
secure an education and by teaching at intervals, made his way through college
and then read law. He came to Logansport and thence to Rochester about fifty one
years ago. He at once engaged in the law practice and was Judge of the 41st
judicial circuit from 1877 to 1885. He leaves three children by a previous
marriage -- John and Julia KEITH and Mrs. Anna [KEITH] CLARKE, and a devoted
wife to mourn the death of a faithful and honorable husband and father.
Funeral services by Rev. DeVoe, Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Tribute by Hon. M. L. Essick
At the request of the SENTINEL, Hon. M. L. Essick, who was a fellow practitioner
of law with Judge Keith for many years, gave the following tribute to the
distinguished life just closed:
The immortal spark of Judge Sidney Keith has been borne back to its Divine
origin, to be returned by the "living light," and all there is of the
mortal is "The case earth, the trembling clod, constrained to hold the
breath of God."
Judge Keith, in 1852, came here from his native state of Maine, with the
character and habits of that state for honesty, industry, and nobleness of
character, and entered upon the practice of law. He was the clerk of the Fulton
circuit court, a lawyer, Judge and agriculturist, he has taken soundings in many
of the turbulent waters of life. His was a composite character. His life had in
it the mountain and the valley, the sunshine and the shadow, all the seasons
represented in its nature, clear, earnest, profound untiring, versatile, an
acute reasoner. He was a linguist, a scholar and a philosopher in its best
sense. As a friend he was one of the gentlest, kindest, truest and tenderest. He
could woo like a lover, but against his enemies and what he thought was
injustice he struck like a trained gladiator. He was human and had many of the
frailties and weaknesses of mortality. Had he been otherwise we could not have
loved him. To his enemies he had in his blood the merciless instinct of battle
and in his brain the inspiration of the warrior. He was not the military hero of
any war; there are no drums to beat nor officer paraphernalia to follow him to
the tomb, yet he was one of those men who in the darkest hours when there was
scarce a silver lining to the cloud that overhung the almost hopeless destinies
of the people, never lost court and like the grand old patriot, stood for his
country and country's cause. What a grand thought it is that this man who at the
bar, -- "He above the rest, in shape and gesture proudly eminent, stood
like a tower," -- when he come to die -- was sustained, comforted and
soothed by his beloved son who came to care for him, and his devoted wife,
watching by his wasting form from morn to night and night to morn. "On some
fond breast the parting soul relies."
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 25, 1904]
KEITH & BENNETT [Rochester, Indiana]
Attorneys and Counselors at Law, Rochester, Indiana. Office in the County
Clerk's office.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
All persons interested in Soldiers' claims, either for Pensions, Back Pay or
Bounty . . . Messrs. Keith & Bennett . . . are prepared to attend to such
claims . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, June 5, 1862]
Dissolution. The partnership heretofore existing under the name of
"Keith & Bennet," has been this day dissolved by mutual consent.
The books and unfinished business of said firm remain in the hands of Mr Keith
for settlement. Sidney Keith, E. L. Bennet. July 7, 1864
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 21, 1864]
KEITH & GOSS [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Keith & Goss brick factory re-commenced operation this morning. Tobe is
busy getting things in readiness to furnish brick for the front of the new
building to be ercted by L. C. Kistler, on the ground west of Stockberger and
Hisey hardware.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 24, 1903]
KEITH DRUG STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Dawson, George V.
__________
STORE CHANGED HANDS
A deal was made Thursday afternoon whereby James Kepler became the owner of the
George P. Keith drug store on the south side of the public square. Mr. Keith has
been in the drug business at that location for the past number of years and his
disposition of his stock at this time comes as a surprise to many. Mr. Kepler -
- - the owner a Warsaw property has never had any experience in the drug line
and will dispose of the stock to Rochester druggists and those of surrounding
towns. The - - - - of the stock may be sold at public sale until the entire lot
is disposed of.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 14, 1912]
KEITH, FULLER & BENNET [Rochester, Indiana]
Real estate agency.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 11, 1864]
KELLAR & SELLERS [Rochester, Indiana]
WE HAVE COME TO STAY
Having purchased the entire stock of furniture and undertaking of V. Zimmerman,
we have remodeled the entire building and are making one of the most attractive
furniture rooms in the country. Knowing the business thoroughly in its fullest
details, we are able to please our customers both in prices and quality of
goods. - - - -
Our undivided and special attention given to funeral calls day or night. No
extra charge for embalming and preserving of bodies. KELLAR & SELLERS.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 13, 1884]
[Adv] PALACE FURNITURE ROOMS - KELLAR & SELLERS Now occupy their new and
elegant Rooms, one door South of the Post Office. - - - Fine and Medium Priced
Furniture.- - - Undertaking - - - Kellar & Sellers, PALACE FURNITURE STORE.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 22, 1885]
[Adv] Maltby's Furniture and Undertaking Store, Noftsger's Block, Rochester,
Ind., Offers special bargains - - - - A. F. MALTBY, Successor to V. Zimmerman
and Kellar & Sellers.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 26, 1886]
KELLER, JOHN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
KELLER'S INN [Lake Manitou]
KELLER'S INN BOUGHT BY HUNTINGTON MAN
It was announced today that Keller's Inn and two cottages on the west shore of
Lake Manitou near the Dam Landing have been purchased by Arthur Moore, of
Huntington.
The sale was made by Howard Keller of South Bend, son of the late John Keller,
as administrator of his father's estate. Mr. Moore is employed as an engineer on
the Erie Railroad and will move with his family to Rochester within the coming
ten or twelve days.
Fred H. Moore, of this city, was the realtor.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, December 3, 1943]
KELLEY, CLARENCE [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
KELLEY, WAYNE J. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Wayne J. Kelley)
KELLY, BARNEY [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
KELLY, PATRICK [Wayne Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Patrick Kelly was born in Allegheny county, Pa., Feb. 27, 1833, and is a son of
John and Mary Magdaline (Wyble) Kelly. His father was a native of county
Kilkenny, Ireland, while his mother was a native of Germany. They were married
in Pennsylvania, and unto their marriage were born the following children:
Patrick, Mary, John, deceased; Bridget, deceased; Elizabeth, James, Margaret,
Ann, and Jane, deceased. Soon after the birth of Patrick his parents removed to
Ohio, thence to Indiana, settled first in Carroll county, and subsequently the
father entered eighty acres of land in Union township, Fulton county, and moved
onto the same in November, 1839, becoming a very early settler of the county.
These early pioneers reared their family in Union township, where the mother
died, preceding the father many years in death. He died in 1889, at the advanced
age of eighty-eight yers. Both he and she were buried at Winamac. Patrick Kelly
was reared mainly in Fulton county. In 1857 he married Lavina, a daughter of
Henry Bruce, a pioneer settler in Aubbeenaubbee township. She bore him two
children and was then called away by death in 1859. The elder child died in
infancy. The younger was named Edward Michael Kelly. He was born in Pulaski
county, Ind., Dec. 1, 1859, and was married in 1882, Nov. 1, to Miss Catherine
Carroll, daughter of Owen and Bridget Carroll. She was born in Pulaski county,
Ind., March 7, 1862. Unto Edward M. Kelly and wife there have been born the
following children: Dessie L., Elmer Edward, Patrick F. and Clara B. In 1862
Patrick Kelly married for a second wife Mary M., daughter of Jacob Ruff, a
pioneer settler of Pulaski county, where Mrs. Kelly was born Nov. 5, 1844. For
about five years after his marriage Mr. Kelly farmed, and then up to about 1867
he was in business, first at Star City, then at Winamac. About 1868 he began
saw-milling and has since followed the business. In 1875 he located at Blue
Grass, Wayne township, where he has continued to reside. He has been a
successful business man and is a representative citizen. He is a democrat and
has served as justice of the peace since 1892. He and his wife are members of
the Roman Catholic church, to which church his son and son's family also belong.
His son resides in Blue Grass and is associated with his father in business.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 94]
KELSEY, LAWRENCE E., Dr. [Kewanna, Indiana]
DR. KELSEY TO BUILD HOSPITAL AT KEWANNA
Dr. Lawrence E. Kelsey announced today that he is building a complete small
hospital and office combined in Kewanna in which he will install modern
equipment.
A contract has been let by Dr. Kelsey to Lloyd Woolington of Kewanna and work is
to begin immediately. The plans call for the completion of the building by
January 1, 1937.
The building, a two-story structure, is to be of brick veneer. The building will
contain 17 rooms, a number of which will be used for hospitalization.
The building which Dr. Kelsey is having converted into a hospital is located on
the north side of Main street in Kewanna, just west of the public library.
Dr. Kelsey is a native of Monterey where his father is a doctor. He has been
practicing in Kewanna for several months. He received his medical training in
Chicago and Tulsa, Okla.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, October 22, 1936]
KENDRICK DAIRY [Rochester, Indiana]
It is not generally known perhaps that Mr. F. K. Kendrick, of this place, is
engaged quite extensively in the Dairy business. He has been more or less
engaged in it for several years; last season Mr. K. supplied our market with as
good cheese as we generally received from the Western Reserve. With his
increased facilities this season he will be able not only to supply our home
market, but also ship more or less.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, May 10, 1860]
KENDRICK WAGON & CABINET SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Owned and operated by Francis K. Kendrick.
See: Rochester Masonic Lodge.
KENNEDY, FRANK [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
KENNEY, W. M. [Rochester, Indiana]
W. M. KENNEY (Biography)
W. M. KENNEY, the present pastor of the Christian church, was born April 12,
1865, near Springfield, Sangamon county, Ill., in which county he resided on a
farm until his removal to this state in February, 1892. Mr. Kenney was ordained
to the ministry October 15, 1886, having preached some months prior to that
time. Like many others he was deprived of a college education, educating himself
while laboring on a farm. He has served as pastor in this state the
congregations at Windfall and Monticello, from the latter place moved to
Rochester. His work, both as a pastor and evangelist, has ever been attended by
success. He is married, having living one child. His present wife was Miss Lily
A. STRUT, of Brookston, Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
KENTUCKY STOCK FARM [Richland Township]
NEWS OF THE DAY
L. M. Hayner, who has conducted the Kentucky Stock farm for several years, has
purchased the Otto McMahan property just west of the Fair ground. Mr. Hayner
will lay out the property into lots, build sidewalks and set out trees along the
frontages. He will also erect a house to be used by himself. Otto Caple, who
owns adjoining land will also build and it is thought there will be a general
building boom in that locality as soon as the lots are disposed of.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, June 1, 1909]
LEE STURGES, OWNER OF KENTUCKY STOCK FARM,
GAINS HONORS AS ARTIST, CRITICISM REVEALS
Fulton County has an adopted son in its midst who enjoys national [sic] wide
fame as an artist but this fact he has consistently hidden from the people of
this community. The man who has attracted the attention of the leading critics
is Lee Sturges, owner of the Kentucky Stock Farm, north of Rochester. His
residence is in Chicago, but he is a frequent visitor to the farm and to the
city.
It has developed that Mr. Sturges has done considerable painting along the
beautiful Tippecanoe River and has brought other artists here who have sketched
the life and color of the stream.
In a recent issue of the Christian Science Monitor there appeared a picture of
one of his etchings and a criticism of it. In addition the article had the
following to say about Mr. Sturges:
"With Mr. Sturges etching is an avocation, and so well does he handle this
medium that each year brings to him added recognition. Those who have been
fortunate enough to have visited The Crags of Estes Park are familiar with his
many intresting etchings of mountains, glaciers and Indiana adorning the rustic
walls of this well-known hostelry. It is not unusual for the guests to see Mr.
Sturges coming in from some mountain trip with a new and interesting bit done
with his pencil. Blackfeet Glacier is perhaps one of his most successful glacier
studies. However the Sturges etchings are not limited to mountain scenes, for
among the fields and streams along the picturesque Tippecanoe River in Indiana
he has found scenes for some of his happiest and best prints.
"Lee Sturges was born in Chicago and for many years has had his studio in
his home at Elmhurst, Illinois, one of Chicago's oldest suburbs. With a natural
inclination toward art he improved his talent by studying at the Art Institute
in Chicago and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. At present he is president
of the Chicago Society of Etchers, a member of the Brooklyn Society of Etchers,
the Print Makers of California, the Print Makers of England, The Cliffdwellers,
and the Chicago Art Institute Alumnae. He has been awarded the Logan Medal in
the annual exhibition of the Chicago Society of Etchers at the Chicago Art
Institute and is represented in the permanent collections of many leading
American galleries. Five of his etchings of American scenes were recently shown
at the Bibliothorque Nationale in Paris."
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 9, 1929]
KEPLER, JAMES [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
James Kepler will open a grocery store in the room formerly occupied by Chas.
Bailey, on Main street.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 29, 1909]
STORE CHANGED HANDS
A deal was made Thursday afternoon whereby James Kepler became the owner of the
George P. Keith drug store on the south side of the public square. Mr. Keith has
been in the drug business at that location for the past number of years and his
disposition of his stock at this time comes as a surprise to many. Mr. Kepler -
- - the owner a Warsaw property has never had any experience in the drug line
and will dispose of the stock to Rochester druggists and those of surrounding
towns. The - - - - of the stock may be sold at public sale until the entire lot
is disposed of.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 14, 1912]
KEPLER, ORLAN [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW OLDSMOBILE AGENCY OPENS ON EIGHTH STREET
Saturday, March 20th marks the opening of the new Oldsmobile Agency in Rochester
by the Kepler Motor Sales Co. The new agency will be located in the Wainscott
building, 118 to 120 East 8th street and the new 1937 Oldsmobile will be on
display in this new salesroom.
Orlan Kepler, manager of the new agency, has been associated in the automobile
business in this city for the past ten years where he was employed as one of the
chief salesmen for his uncle the late Charles K. Kepler. Associated with the
manager, will be his father James Kepler and Norman R. Stoner in the sales
division and Robert Stoner who will have charge of the clerical work in this new
business.
The management stated they would carry a complete stock of the new Oldsmobile
and also present a high grade line of completely overhauled and re-constructed
used cars. The service department of Kepler Motor Sales will be located in the
J. W. Brubaker garage on South Main street.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 19,1937]
KEPLER AUTO COMPANY [Rochester, Indiana]
[photos] Charles K. Keler and Mrs. Chas. K. Kepler
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 6, 1934, p. 15]
__________
[Adv] Chevrolet - - - - $645 - - - - C. K. KEPLER AUTO CO. Phone 61,
Rochester, Ind.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 24, 1926]
[Adv] - - - -USED CARS - with an OK that counts. - - - C. K. KEPLER AUTO CO.,
Rochester, Indiana
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 7, 1930]
PIONEERS OF AUTODOM
Rochester salutes the second oldest dealer of Chevrolet cars in the United
States -- Mr. and Mrs. Chas. K. Kepler of the C. K. Kepler Auto Company, this
city. Their history with Chevrolet sales and service goes back to 1916; their
record parallels the chronicle of the Chevrolet car, and today their business
bespeaks the successful operation of a policy founded on the principal of
fairness and service and conducted on the basis of quality and faith.
Mr. and Mrs. Kepler began a mercantile career in a general store at Green Oak in
1901, remaining there seventeen years, or until 1918. In that progressive little
store, LeRoy Shelton, Fulton county's first sacrifice to German bullets, worked
with the Keplers for several years.
In 1916, the Keplers took over the Chevrolet agency, then operated by Kelsey P.
Richardson, and in partnership with Chas. Robbins established display and repair
service in the Robbins building, just south of what is now the Eagles Home. In
1919, when the building now occupied by the Char-Bell theatre was completed they
moved in and there operated a garage and sales room. In 1923, at which time the
business was moved across the street to its present location, Mrs. Robbins
retired from the business and Mr. Kepler assumed full charge, a position he has
continued to hold.
Mr. and Mrs. Kepler are assisted by six others namely James F., and Orland
Kepler, Milton Whittenberger, Verne Sanders, Ola Alspach and Otto Lewis.
In addition to the sales and service of Chevrolet cars, they maintain a modern
garage, specializing in the repair and overhaul of all cars. A service that has
won favor with many local motorists.
The local agency is the winner of several awards, having repeatedly headed the
list in sales of this district, a record of which they are deservedly proud.
"Better service and better cars each year has made our business grow,"
said Mr. Kepler, "and we are thankful to our many friends who have made our
little measure of success possible."
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 6, 1934, p. 15]
KEPLER GROCERY [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Kepler grocery has closed its doors owing to the shortage of business and
naturally following inability to meet bills.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 25, 1908]
KEPLER MEAT MARKET [Tiosa, Indiana]
Destroyed by fire September 23, 1895.
KEPLER MOTOR SALES [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
KEPLER OLDSMOBILE AGENCY [Rochester, Indiana]
Located 120-122 E 8th.
Operated by Orlan (Brick) Kepler.
__________
OLDS AGENCY IS MAKING READY TO OPEN SOON
Prospects of a new, or rather a reinstated era of automobile purchase
possibilities w as brought to light today by Orlen "Brick" Kepler who
is now refitting and redecorating his sales rooms at 120-122 East Eighth street
in preparation for the new 1946 models of Oldsmobile cars and GMC trucks, which
are scheduled to roll off production lines in early October.
The building, which has been used as a storage through the war-torn years since
Pearl Harbor, is being cleaned and decorated, and plans now under way, Kepler
says, will make it one of the most attractive automobile show rooms in Fulton
county. He plans to open the agency sometime next week and may perhaps add a
complete shop and service department.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 18, 1945]
KEPLER & STONER AUTO CO. [Akron, Indiana]
KEPLER AND STONER BUY AKRON GARAGE
Ernest Knifton has sold his garage and the agency at Akron to the Kepler and
Stoner Auto Company and moved his welding outfit and tools to the Akron Motor
Company building.
The transaction took place recently and the moving was done yesterday. The
Kepler and Stoner Company are already in their new location and are re-arranging
their equipment and stock.
Mr. Knifton has no definite plans for the future, but will take care of his
welding trade at the Akron Motor Company garage.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 7, 1933]
LOCAL MEN SELL AKRON CHEVROLET AUTO AGENCY
D. L. Alger of Wabash has purchased the Chevrolet agency in Akron from Norman
Stoner and Charles Kepler of this city. The deal was made early this week. Mr.
Alger will open his new agency Saturday.
Mr. Alger is no stranger to Akron as he formerly operated the Chevrolet agency
there from 1930 to 1932 and moved back to his home town of Wabash.
Since leaving Akron he has been engaged in the automobile sale business,
operating an agency for Plymouth and DeSoto cars.
At present Mr. Alger plans to remain in the same building used by Kepler and
Stoner. He plans to move to Akron as soon as he can find a house.
Mr. Stoner has no definite plans for the future but says he will remain in Akron
for a few weeks selling the second hand cars he has.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 21, 1936]
KERN, FRANK [Rochester/Kokomo, Indiana]
See Kern Transit Company
__________
BUS LINES CONSOLIDATED
Frank Kern of Kokomo, a former resident of this city, has been named manager of
the Union Bus Station there. For several years Mr. Kern was the manager of the
Indiana Motor Bus Company at Kokomo. Last week the offices of the Hiner Bus and
the Reindeer Stages were combined with that of the Indiana Company. The station
is located in the Dispatch Building at Kokomo.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, May 21, 1934]
FORMER RESIDENT SELLS TICKET 14 FEET LONG
Frank Kern, agent of the Indiana Motor Bus Company in Kokomo and a former
resident of this city, Thursday afternoon sold Mrs. Frank Bowyer, 516 South
Armstrong Street, Kokomo, what is believed to have been the longest bus ticket
ever sold in the state of Indiana
The ticket was for a 10,000 mile bus trip that will cover more than half of the
states in the United States. Mrs. Bowyer's ticket was fourteen feet long. The
first stop will be in Florida.
From Florida, Mrs. Bowyer's itinerary will take her around the Gulf of Mexico,
the Grand Canyon, Boulder Dam, Los Angeles, Portland, Ore., Seattle, Yellowstone
Park, Denver, Kansas City, and back to Kokomo.
The trip will consume eight months' time.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 28, 1936]
KERN TRANSIT COMPANY
See Kern, Frank
See Rochester-Logansport Bus Line
See Hiner Red Ball Line
NEW AKRON BUS
Frank Kern has a new 10 passenger closed auto bus, which he has placed in
service between Rochester and Akron. The schedule will be found in this issue.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 3, 1917]
FRANK KERN TO ADD BUS LINE TO MONTEREY SOON
Frank Kern went Wednesday to Auburn to mount a bus body on a Ford chassis for
use between Rochester and Monterey. The new line will be in operation within a
few days at most, and will make five towns: Rochester, Germany, Leiters, Delong
and Monterey. Mr. Kern has given much satisfaction with his Akron, Athens,
Rochester line and his new schedule will be so arranged as to meet the Vandalia
trains at Delong.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 7, 1917]
BIG BUS
Frank Kern has received a large Ford bus for the Akron-Rochester line. It was
purchased of the local agents.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 22, 1917]
NEW AKRON BUS
Frank Kern returned Saturday evening from Indianapolis with a new Reo truck
which he will operate on his Rochester-Akron line.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, September 9, 1918]
AKRON BUS LINE IS SOLD
Frank Kern, of Athens, proprietor of the Rochester-Athens-Akron bus line, has
sold his business to Ira L. Mallory, of Hoopston, Ill., the deal being made
Saturday evening. Mr. Mallory, who takes possession at once, takes over the two
large busses and the good will of the service. Mr. Kern on Saturday completed
his third year to a day of hauling passengers between Akron and Rochester. The
new owner, who is now in Rochester preparing to move to this city, will continue
the policy of "safety always" and will run the busses on the same
schedule and at the same rates as before. Kern will continue to drive the bus
for the next two weeks and will then return to his home at Athens. He has no
plans for the future at present.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, December 29, 1919]
GIRL BUYS BUS
Miss Ruth Kern, Thursday, purchased a Studebaker bus of a Mr. Winegardner, of
Logansport. It has been rumored this automobile will be used on a new bus line
between Rochester, Athens and Akron. One other company now runs between the
three towns that of Ira Mallory.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 16, 1920]
GETS NEW BUS
Ruth Kern, manager of a bus line between this city and Akron, received a new Reo
bus Monday morning and put it into commission almost immediately. The new bus is
one of the most modern machines of its type in the country. The bus made its
first trip to Akron on the run leaving this city at one o'clock.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, September 6, 1920]
FRANK KERN PURCHASES ROCHESTER-AKRON BUSES
Frank Kern, who instituted the Rochester-Akron bus line a number of years ago,
later selling his interests to Ira Mallory about one year ago, announces that he
has purchased the line from Mallory and taken possession. He has also purchased
the line run under the management of his sister, Miss Ruth Kern. Miss Kern will
continue to drive the bus for her brother while Kern himself will remain in the
employment of the Finneran Motor Sales Co. Mr. Mallory, it is understood,
expects to leave soon for the South.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, November 1, 1920]
F. KERN AND PARTNER MAY ESTABLISH BUS LINE
Frank Kern of this city may become part owner of the finest auto bus line in the
state if present plans work out. The busses to run between South Bend and Ft.
Wayne over the Lincoln Highway.
Kern would be associated with Geo. Grosse a contractor of LaPorte. The two men
intend to puchase two Packard Twin Six deluxe busses and would give
exceptionally fast and safe service. Each bus would carry 18 passengers and
would be the last word in equipment which would include a lavatory and a smoking
compartment. A radio receiving set which would be for the purpose of
entertaining the guests would be a special feature.
Mr. Kern and Mr. Gross were over the intended route just recently and were
investigating the field to see if such a bus line would be profitable.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 5, 1923]
KERN'S NEW BUS IS IDEAL FOR COMFORT
"The Fleetaway," the new Hudson bus which is being used on the
Logansport-Monticello bus line, operated by Frank Kern, of Rochester, is one of
the largest, most modern and well equipped busses in this part of the state. A
railroad coach has little on it for comfort and convenience.
The bus is upholstered throughout with handsome leather. The cushions are
spacious and easy, and there is plenty of foot room between the seats. There are
dome lights and ventilators in the roof which keep plenty of light and fresh air
in the car.
It has two compartments, one for women and one for men who wish to smoke during
the trip. The ladies' seats are located in the middle of the car behind the
driver's sear. There are two of them with a door opening onto both.
The smoking room in the rear is separated from the front part by a glass
partition and is equipped with ash trays and electric cigar lighter and matches.
The bus has a wheel base of 200 inches and takes the bumps and ruts much easier
than a shorter car. The rear end is equipped with a green light on the left and
a red light on the right side besides the regular tail light. Over the
windshield in front is the name, "The Fleetaway" which is illuminated
at night.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 11, 1924]
TO OPERATE BUS
Miss Ruth Kern, who has been driving the Rochester-Athens-Akron bus line owned
by her brother, Frank Kern, for several years, has moved to Logansport and will
operate the new bus Kern has placed in operation between that city and
Monticello. Dale Hartman will drive the local bus.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 12, 1924]
KERN PURCHASES NEW HUDSON FLEETAWAY BUS
A new Hudson Fleetaway motor bus will soon be in service on the
Logansport-Monticello bus line, Manager Frank Kern, formerly of Rochester,
announced. The machine is being built to specifications for the bus line and
will be six inches longer than Fleetaway No. 1, now in use, the wheel base to be
200 inches. Like the present machine, the new one will seat fifteen persons.
With the inauguration of the new car, a winter schedule will be put into effect
by the company. Four round trips a day will be made by the busses. The new
schedule should be ready within thirty days, Mr. Kern said.
The bus line has provided efficient service for passengers between the White
county seat and Logansport which will be even better when the new car arrives.
In order that the riding qualities of the busses will be unsurpassed, the
company will soon install Westinghouse air springs on the new car, and has
ordered this equipment on the new machine.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 8, 1924]
NEW BUS LINE
Frank Kern, owner of the Rochester and Akron bus line, has started a new bus
between Logansport and Indianapolis. The first trips were made last week. Two
buses will be used.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, September 10, 1924]
KERN'S NEW BUS LINE LOGANSPORT TO WABASH
Logansport to Wabash and not Logansport to Peru will be the route of Frank
Kern's new Wabash Valley Lines busses, it was learned Tuesday. Peru will be a
station and a terminal, the line having headquarters at the Indiana hotel there,
but the route is longer than first reported.
DeLuxe bus service will be given the travelers with parlor cars seating
twenty-five persons used for all seven of the round trips which will be made
each day. A running time of one hour and twenty minutes has been set by Mr. Kern
from Logansport to Wabash. The first trip will leave Logansport at 7 a.m.
A new bus station will be opened at Logansport this week at 317 Court street.
The ticket system and the station will be in charge of Ruth Kern.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 16, 1924]
KERN'S NEW WABASH BUS STARTS AT LOGANSPORT
The Frank Kern Wabash Valley company began operation of the new line Thursday
when the De Luxe model bus secured especially for this service, made its first
trip between Logansport and Wabash. The bus is similar to a parlor car in design
with the interior divided into compartments, each constructed in a manner to
provide for ventilation.
Railway coach sears covered with black leather have been installed in the bus
which will seat twenty-five passengers. The body is painted in pale blue. The
chassis is of Mack design. Baggage carrying space is also provided in the bus.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, December 19, 1924
KERN STILL A DIRECTOR OF BUS ORGANIZATION
Frank Kern, operator of the Kern Bus line, formerly of Rochester but now living
at Logansport, was appointed a hold-over member of the board of directors of the
Motor Bus Association of Indiana during the annual session for the election of
officers, held in Indianapolis. Re-election of H. E. Johns of LaPorte, as
president, was made.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 8, 1925]
NEW KERN BUS
A new Reo bus, of the latest model, with seats for twenty passengers, has been
put on the Logansport-Monticello run by the Kern Transfer company. The seats are
a grey leather and wicker, and the trimmings are in leather. The bus is grey,
and is a beautiful vehicle. It is one of the most comfortable and roomiest buses
in the state, and its system of heating insures a pleasant ride regardless of
weather.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, December 30, 1925]
AWARDED MAIL CONTRACT
Frank Kern of Monticello, former resident of this city, who operates The Kern
Transfer Line between Logansport and Monticello, was on Saturday awarded again
the contract for carrying mail between the two cities. He was given a three year
contract by postal department.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 11, 1928]
FRANK KERN ASKS FOR PERU-LOGAN BUS PERMIT
Application has been filed with the Public Service Commission of Indiana by The
Kern Transit Company of Logansport which is owned by Frank Kern, formerly of
this city, asking for an extension of its bus route from Logansport to Peru.
Hearing on the petition will be held in the rooms of the commission at
Indianapolis at 10:30 a.m. October 17, according to a notice received in this
city Friday. J. Reid McCain will be the commissioner who will hear the evidence
on the petition. Mr. Kern for the past several years has been operating a bus
line between Monticello and Logansport. Prior to that he was the owner of a bus
line between Rochester and Akron. The road between Peru and Logansport is to be
paved next summer while the road between Logansport and Monticello was hard
surfaced during this past summer.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, October 6, 1928]
KERN TO SELL BUS LINE
The Public Service Commission yesterday approved the sale of the Kern Transfer
Company of this city owned by Frank Kern to Dan Gillespie of Logansport. The
deal includes two busses. The price was given as $5750. The Kern Transfer
Company has been operating motor busses between Logansport and Monticello for a
number of years. Gillespie was the owner of a competing line.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, December 15, 1928]
KERN LINE IS SOLD
The Frank Kern Transfer company of this city was given permission Friday by the
public service commission to sell its bus line between Monticello and Logansport
to Dan Gillespie of Logansport who also operated a bus line between the two
cities. The Kern company has been in operation for the past six years and was
one of the best equipped bus lines in the northern part of the state.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 19, 1929]
OPENING BUS STATION
Frank Kern has been named agent for a new bus station at Kokomo which will be
the terminal for all the bus lines entering that city including the Indiana
Motor Bus Company. The station will be located on North Main Street. In addition
to being the agent Kern will operate a lunch room in the station lobby.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 17, 1931]
KERN & SON, J. W. [Rochester, Indiana]
INSTALL VULCANIZING PLANT
Local automobile owners now have the opportunity of having their tires patched
and repaired, as J. W. Kern and Son, formerly of Athens, have installed a
vulcanizing plant in the room south of the Progress Wholesale Grocery Company.
Frank Kern, the son, was formerly an employe of the Haywood Tire Equipment
Company of Indianapolis and understands the business thoroughly. The new firm is
prepared to mend and retread tires, thereby saving many local owners from buying
new tires. They can patch blow outs and cuts in a manner that will make them as
good as new. At present they are located temporarily and will move as soon as
they are able to secure a location nearer the center of the business district.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 11, 1913]
KERSCHNER, FEROL [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW GROCERY STORE
Ferol Kerschner, of South Bend, has leased the room at 828 So. Main street,
formerly occupied by the Marsh grocery and will open a new grocery store in the
location. Mr. Kerschner is an experienced grocery store operator and formerly
lived in Denver. For many years he was the traveling salesman in this territory
for the Hellman Company's products.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, March 31, 1931]
NILES, MICH. CITIZEN BUYS LOCAL GROCERY
Through a transaction consummated the latter part of last week C. E. Renbarger
becomes the new proprietor of the F. J. Kerschner Grocery store, located at 828
Main street, this city.
The new owner who comes from Niles, Mich., has had several years experience in
the grocery business and is planning to make his store one of the most modern
equipped food stores in this section of the state. At the present time the room
is undergoing redecorating and remodeling. Steel shelving is being installed and
water-sprayed vegetables and special steel fruit racks are being added to the
stock of fixtures.
The formal opening of the grocery will probably be delayed for a week or ten
days on account of the extensive repair work. However, the new proprietor is
taking care of the clientele of the store while these improvements are underway.
Mr. Kerschner, the retiring grocer, has opened up a bakery and pastry shop in
the north end of Rochester.
Mr. and Mrs. Renbarger are residing at 303 West 11th street, this city, pending
the securing of a suitable residence here.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, March 13, 1934]
KESLER, GEORGE [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Mr. Kesler is a native of Richland County, Ohio, born March 11, 1841. In his
boyhood, he located with his father on the farm on which he now resides. He was
united in marriage, on the 8th of Septemer, 1859, to Miss Sarah Batz, a native
of Pennsylvania, born April 8, 1841. This union has been blessed with the birth
of six chidren, two of whom died in infancy, and four--Reuben A., Eliza A.,
Andrew B. and Harley--are yet living. Mr. K. is a member of Bloomingsburg Lodge,
No. 489, F. & A.M., and also of Bloomingsburg Lodge, No. 516, I.O.O.F., and
he and lady are members of the Yellow Creek Baptist Church. He served in Company
F, Eighty-seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, participating in every
engagement in which his company participated, marching from Louisville, by way
of Chickamauga, Atlanta and Savannah, to Washington, being attached to the
Fourteenth Army Corps. Mr. Kesler now owns the old homestead on which his father
located in the year 1852, consisting of 200 acres of choice land. He was elected
Township Trustee in April, 1880, and filled the office for two years with great
acceptability. His father, Peter Kesler, was a native of Pennsylvania, and
married Elizabeth Windbigler, of the same State, who still survives him, he
having deceased on the 29th of April, 1875. Reuben Batz, the father of Mrs. K.,
was born in Berks County, Penn., in October, 1815, and married Anna Moyer, of
the same State, born Auguyst 20, 1815.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 49]
KESLER, JOHN [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
John Kesler. - The subject of this sketch is one of the most thrifty farmers of
Newcastle Township. He was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 1, 1836, and
came to this county with his father in 1852. He may therefore be considered one
of the early settlers of this vicinity. His education was very limited, only
such as could be acquired in the rude schools of a new country among the early
settlements; but keen foresight, indomitable courage, untiring industry,
undoubted integrity and great business tact have made him eminently successful
in life. He has acquired a fine farm of 195 acres of choice land, to which he
has recently added by another purchase. He was married, December 4, 1856, to
Mary J. Kessler, a native of Preble County, Ohio, born December 7, 1840. Mr. K.
enlisted in Company F, Eighty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, August 1862,
but after a short term of service was discharged on account of physical
disability. To Mr. and Mrs. K. have been born eleven children--Malinda, Peter,
Eliza, George, Laura, John L., Rufus, Milton, Alta V., Elnora and Minnie M. Of
these, Malinda and Eliza are married, and Peter, George and Rufus are deceased.
Peter Kesler, the father of the subject of this sketch is spoken of elsewhere in
this work. John Kessler, the father of Mrs. Kesler, was born in Miami County,
Ohio, January 30, 1818, and was united in marriage to Malinda Harriman, of his
native State, born November 29, 1809. They are at present residents of Kansas,
where they own valuable property.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 49]
JOHN KESLER
County Auditor John KESLER is a Fulton county pioneer, having lived in Newcastle
township since 1852 where he came direct from his birthplace in Richland county,
Ohio. He was but sixteen years old when he came to the county and is now nearly
60, and he has spent all of these years, except several years at gunsmithing, in
developing his 235 acre farm from a forest to one of the most valuable
homesteads in the county. Mr. Kesler entered the service of the U.S. during the
war and saw some hard times in the 87th Regiment. He first married Mary KESLER,
a lady of his name, but no relation, in 1855 and after her death married Martha
BYBEE HAMLET his present wife. He is the father of twelve children, has been an
active member of the Baptist church for 20 years and was honored last year by
the nomination for county Auditor and success at the polls. Mr. Kesler is a
gentleman in the fullest sense of the term and fully merits the universal esteem
he enjoys.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
BIOGRAPHY
John Kesler, the present auditor of Fulton county, first saw the light of day in
Richland county, Ohio. He was born April 1, 1836. His parents were Peter and
Eliza (Windbigler) Kesler. They were born near Shaferstown, Lancastr county, Pa.
The father was born in 1809 and the mother in 1816. Peter Kesler was a son of
Abraham Kesler, a native of Pennsylvania, of German ancestors. Mr. Kesler's
mother, who is now (1896) living with him, is a daughter of John and Mary (Buchter)
Windbigler. They were natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. The
marriage of Peter Kesler and Elizabeth Windbigler was consummated in Ohio, and
they settled down in life in Richland county, of that state. In the year 1852
they came to Fulton county and settled on a farm in Newcastle township, where
Mr. Kesler died in his sixty-sixth year. Their son, whom this mention concerns,
was eighteen years of age when his parents came to Fulton county. His education
was limited to the country schools. Though brought up on the farm he learned the
gunsmith's trade, which he followed together with farming for twelve years. In
1856 Mr. Kesler married Mary Jane Kessler, who was born in Preble county, Ohio.
Her father was John M. Kessler, who was born in Miami County, Ohio, Jan. 30,
1818, and was united in marriage with Malinda Harriman, of his native state,
born Nov. 99 [sic], 1809. John M. Kessler was a son of Ulrich Kessler, a native
of Virginia, of German descent. The family name of our subject, and that of his
wife, though pronounced the same, are spelled differently, and so far as known
the two families are not relatied. Mr. Kesler has been twice married. His first
wife bore him twelve children, of which five are deceased. She died in March of
1890, and in February, 1892, Mr. Kesler married the second time, wedding Mrs.
Martha Hamlet, nee Bybee, who is his present wife. Mr. Kesler began the battle
of life with no capital other than willing hands and fixed purpose to succeed.
As a farmer he long since became prosperous. He owns a well-improved farm in
Newcastle township, where he lived till be became the auditor of the county, to
which office he was elected as the republican candidate, in the fall of 1894, by
128 majority. Mr. Kesler enlisted in company F, Eighty-seventh Indiana volunteer
infantry, August, 1862, but after a short time of service was discharged on
account of physical disability.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 94-95]
KESLER'S BARBER SHOP [Talma, Indiana]
Operated by Peter Kesler, early 1900's.
KESLING, JACOB [Perry Township, Miami County]
BIOGRAPHY
Jacob Kesling, a leading citizen of Perry Township, is a native of Warren
County, Ohio, where he was born July 6, 1820, being the fifth in a family of
eleven children born to Peter and Laura (Griffis) Kesling, who were natives of
Rockingham County, Virginia, and the Province of Wales, respectively. Their
marriage occurred in Warren County, from whence they moved to Preble County, the
same State, where they lived for a number of years. They emigrated to Indiana
and Miami County about 1836, settling in Perry Township, of which they continued
residents until their deaths. Our subject was reared on the farm, remaining at
home with and assisting his parents until he attained the age of about
twenty-one, when he commenced life's battle for himself. He had acquired a
limited education in the primitive log school houses of his time. April 4, 1847,
his marriage with Catharine Haacken was solemnized, and to their union this one
child was born: Andrew J., born December 21, 1848, and died September 7, 1853.
Mrs. Kesling was born August 5, 1822, the daughter of John H. and Catharine
Haacken. Our subject has always made farming his occupation and he has been very
successful. He now owns a fine farm of 264 acres, which is under a high state of
cultivation. In politics he has always been a Democrat. Though he has frequently
been importuned to run for some political position, he has persistently refused.
[History of Miami County, Indiana, 1887, Brant & Fuller. pp. 730-731]
KESSLER, DALE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Haggerty & Kessler Garage
KESSLER, DEL [Rochesrter, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
KESSLER, ISAAC A. [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Isaac A. Kessler, ex-trustee of Newcastle township, was born in Henry county,
Ind., June 23, 1848. His father, John Kessler, was born in North Carolina, and
with his parents removed to the vicinity of Dayton, Ohio, and was there reared
and educated. He came to Indiana at an early date, and settled in Henry county.
He married Mary Anderson and reared a family of eight children. Mrs. Kessler had
been married previously to a Mr. Cates, whose son John Cates, now residing in
Wisconsin, served as treasurer of Fulton county. Her children by her second
marriage are: Simeon, Rachel, wife of James Paxton; Mary J., wife of Jacob
Walburn; Isaac A. and Albert B. Isaac picked up a few of the rudiments of an
English eduation while enrolled as a pupil in the district school. He began life
as a farm hand, employed, as is usual, by the month, and remained as such for
nine years. Although he received as good wages as were paid for such work, when
he had finished his last month as a hired man he had very little surplus funds.
He seemed to be fond of travel and when he had a snug bundle ahead he spent it
sight seeing. One of these trips was made through Kansas and Missouri. Dec. 12,
1875, Mr. Kessler married Mary E. Barkman, whose father, John Barkman, was a
well known farmer of this county. The only issue of this union is Sadie M., born
March 2, 1878. Mr. Kessler has followed farming for an occupation. His farm
consists of seventy-three acres, and has many improvements and is under a good
state of cultivation. In politics Mr. Kessler has been active as a democrat and
in 1890 was honoted by his party with an election to the office of trustee, in
which position he served five yers. Mr. Kessler has also served his township as
constable many years. Recurring to Mr. Kessler's antecedants, his paternal
grandfather was John Kessler, born in Virginia. His early life was spent in
North Carolina, where he resided till 1808, when he came North to Dayton, Ohio.
He came to Indiana with his son John and died in Kosciusko county, perhaps fifty
years ago. He was a teacher all his life. His father was German born. Our
subject's father died in Labette county, Kan., 1874, at seventy-four years of
age. His wife died in this county 1889, at seventy-nine years of age.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 95-96]
KESSLER, M. C.
See: Patents and Inventions
KESTNER, HENRY [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Free Lunch! at "KESTNER'S PLACE" A large glass of fine beer and
a good hot lunch for Five Cents. Finest Wines, Liquors and Cigars in Rochester.
Next door to Blue Drug Store. HENRY KESTNER, Prop.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 13, 1896]
KESTNER, MALCOLM
[See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Malcolm Kestner)
KEWANNA, INDIANA [Union Township]
Located 900W and 250S.
See: Acme Addressing Machine Co.
__________
The first name given this small town was Pinhook, this being due to a
"hairpin" curve in the road at its edge (by curve-Inn restaurant now).
Later the name was changed to Pleasant Grove.
The town of Pleasant Grove was platted in June, 1845 consisting of two blocks
lying south of Main Street. The block on the east side of Logan Street was
platted by Eli Troutman and the block on the west side by John Troutman.
When the post office was created February 18, 1847, it was named Kewanna because
there was already another post office named Pleasant Grove in Jasper County.
William M. Tygert was the first postmaster and ran a general store, the post
office being in the store.
Kewanna was incorporated December 4, 1871.
Kewanna was the second incorporated town in Fulton County.
The first settlers came to the Kewanna area September 28, 1837, led by John
Troutman. John's elder brother, Michael Troutman, Thomas Barnett and Isaac
Cannon brought their families also, and a little neighborhood was formed.
Dr. John Quincy Howell, who published the first newspaper in Fulton County, The
Rochester Star in 1850, later moved to Kewanna and practiced medicine from 1871
to his death. The first newspaper in Kewanna was The Kewanna Times in 1870.
A. E. Hudkins built the first brick house in Kewanna and Union Township in 1879.
A. D. Toner, who came to Kewanna as a little boy in 1842, built a block of brick
buildings in 1883 still known as the Toner Block. He built Toner Hotel (the sign
is still visible on Houser's grocery) and two buildings adjoining it on the west
side for a bank, store and livery stable. In later years an opera house and the
Knights of Pythias hall was upstairs (above the Farmers and Merchants bank).
Toner was the most prominent man in Kewanna. He did everything he could to help
Kewanna grow. He had elevators in Fulton, Lucerne and Kewanna. He encouraged the
building of the Terre Haute and Logansport railroad (Penn Central) through
Kewanna in 1883. He was president of the Kewanna bank around the turn of the
century.
Toner died a pauper and a bachelor. A plaque to commemorate him was put on the
front of the old Kewanna post office, just east of the present post office.
[Kewanna, The Pleasant Grove,, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2 ,Willard]
__________
A. D. Toner has a contract for building five miles of new railroad.
[The Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 30, 1882]
KEWANNA
The livery business of Kewanna was consolidated and placed under one management
Friday, whe F. G. Prevo and W. T. Cannon bought out H. B Kumler, proprietor of
the Palace livery barn.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 7, 1903]
KEWANNA
From the Herald.
Henry Eisenman, who has been so long at Hiland's planing mill, purchased the
Prevo & Cannon transfer business and took charge Monday morning.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 19, 1903]
KEWANNA
E. A. Elston closed a deal Tuesday by which he exchanged his stock of general
merchandise to Mr. Helmick, of near Rochester, for a farm 170 acres.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 18, 1904]
KEWANNA
From the Herald.
Harris & Co., of Casey, Ill., have located a poultry buying and shipping
station at this place.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 9, 1904]
FIRE AT KEWANNA
A midnight conflagration, at Kewanna, Saturday night, did $30,000 worth of
damage and burned three of the most important business plants of the town. They
were Toner's mill, elevator and lumber sheds, Beyer Bros. Poultry and Produce
packing house, and the Vandalia depot.
The fire was first discovered about 11 o'clock at night in the mill, in a room
where the power plant is located, and it is believed that it originated from
spontaneous combustion in waste material. There being only hand fire fighting
apparatus in the town and most of the firemen having retired for the night the
flames got a long start, and were soon spreading to adjacent buildings. From the
mill the fire leaped to the elevator and from there, across the railroad track
to the Vandalia depot building. Beyer Bros.' packing house and Toner's lumber
sheds all went up in smoke, and for a time it looked like the town was doomed to
destruction.
But by heroic work the firemen kept the flames from spreading further toward the
town than this, but the light wind fanned the flames across the street from the
elevator and mill, and the Beyer Bros.' poultry house was consumed. The lumber
sheds owned by A. D. Toner, next to the poultry house, were burned, but the
firemen checked the flames at this point and saved the town.
The losses will foot up $30,000 to $35,000. There was $3,000 insurance on the
mill, and $7,000 on the elevator. Aside from these two items the balance is all,
or nearly all loss, the most of which falls on Mr. Toner. It is a great loss to
the town and to its leading business man but Kewanna is made of the stuff that
doesn't stagger much in the face of adversity. It is reported that the delvator,
depot and Beyer Bros' plant will be rebuilt at once.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 29, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald:
The brick walls which were left standing after last week's fire were pushed over
early this week and the bricks are being stacked away for future use. Then on
Wednesday morning Chas. Troutman and Amos Heminger took the contract from Niccum
& Ridenour of wrecking the big 70 foot brick smoke stack. They undermined it
on the east with picks, and at 3:15 it came down with a crash, the workmen
escaping on a run. A large crowd witnessed the demolition and the workmen will
bet $20 for three hours work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 10, 1905]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Kewanna will lose but one of the industries wiped out by the fire which
threatened to devastate that town a few weeks ago. A. D. Toner, proprietor of
the mammoth elevator which was estroyed, has already opened up an office down
town there, and is preparing to rebuild his plant. The Niccum & Ridenour
plant which was destroyed will not be rebuilt, but Beyer Bros are doing business
in the sheds to the packing house and have already let the contract for the
re-erection of the building burned. Vandalia is preparing to rebuild a passenger
depot and freight house and by the end of the summer there will be nothing to
tll of the fire which threatened to wipe the town off the map.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 16, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
D. H. Snepp starts work shortly on a fine new building to be erected at the
southwest corner of Main and Logan streets. It is being erected primarily to
furnish a home for a bank to be established by D. H. and C. M. Snepp and others.
It will be 30x58 feet, two stories high, outer walls of white brick, plate glass
front on both streets, metal roof, hot water heat and modern in every essential.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 1, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald
Not long ago Kewanna was located on the Vandalia and C. C. & L. The former
road has been purchased by the Pennsylvania system and the latter by the C. H.
& D. and Pere Marquette, so we are now at the junction of the Pennsylvania
and the Great Central.
Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 29, 1905]
JUST A WORD OR TWO ABOUT KEWANNA
There is not a prettier town in northern Indiana than the one situated in about
the center of Union township which bears the name of Kewanna. This place, second
in commercial standing in Fulton county, has a population of about 1,000, and
every man, woman and child of the place seems to take a special pride in making
it a beauty. The business rooms are all in fine brick buildings, the residences
are mansions, compated with those usually in a place of that size -- freshly
painted and clean, with well kept lawns, concrete sidewalks, and beautiful shade
trees.
The town of Kewanna was laid out in June, 1845, by Eli A. and John Troutman, and
platted under the name of "Pleasant Grove," while the postoffice was
called Kewanna. A few months later a store located there and from that time
until the present day it has rapidly grown until at the present time it can be
summed up, commercially, as follows: Two hotels, roller mill, one dentist,
planing mill, one elevator, four doctors, two restaurants, two drug stores,
commercial club, traveling library, one jewelry store, two meat markets, fine
public schools, two express offices, two millinery stores, three barber shops,
four hardware stores, one bicycle exchange, seven secret societies, one modern
weekly newspaper - The Herald, local and long distance telephone service, two
banks, one bakery, Opera house, one tin shop, two railroads, marble works, three
lawyers, three churches, two livery barns, two harness shops, five general
stores, two clothing stores, chemical fire engine, two telegraph offices, pickle
salting house, four blacksmith shops, street sprinkling system, two poultry and
egg packing houses, excellent mail service and three free rural routes with a
total length of 71-3/4 miles.
The inhabitants of the place are of the best class, and socially, the town is
hard to excel. Its people are always ready and willing to show a stranger their
town, and make him feel at home.
The Herald
Foremost among the "pushers" or hustlers of Kewanna is the editor and
publisher of its live, newsy paper, Frank Gould, who has been in Kewanna about
seven years. During that time he has converted the Herald from a cross-road five
column paper of ancient style, with a circulation of less than four hundred that
was printed with material best described as junk, to a modern twentieth century
chronicle that gives the news of the world, nation, state, county and especially
that of Aubbeenaubbee, Union and Wayne townships. The Herald plant has recently
been installed in a fine brick building built especially for it, and fitted with
concrete floors and plenty of good light. The type, presses, material and stock,
is all practically new.
Mr. Gould is a good newspaper man, he knows what is news, what the people like,
and makes his paper a bright, snappy one, overflowing with news and well worth
the subscription price -- one dollar per year. The job department is well
equipped and the best of work can be procured at very low prices.
Kewanna Exchange Bank
Kewanna Exchange Bank was established in 1891, and has proven to be of great
help to the commercial activity of the entire community.
The legal responsibility of this bank exceeds seventy-five thousand dollars,
which is in bonds, securities, first class commercial paper, personal property
and real estate for the accommodation and protection of its customers.
The large amount of real estate owned by this bank makes the depositors
absolutely secure against loss, with aditional security by both burglar and fire
insurance. Good banks are absolutely necessary to modern business and do much to
assist in building up a locality.
This bank affords its customers at all times the most liberal treatment
consistent with safe conservative banking methods, and cheerfully shows to the
smallest depositor the same courtesy as to the largest depositor, thus
encouraging him to start a surplus and save in a small way. This bank loans
money on approved security at legal rate of interest. Any business in the
banking line intrusted to this bank will be promptly, accurately and safely
transacted to the entire satisfaction of its patrons.
The officers of this bank are John H. Toner, President; D. W. Sibert, cashier;
and W. H. Gohl book-keeper and assistant casher. They extend a most cordial
invitation to all customers to freely use the rooms of the bank.
Kewanna Golden Chain Creamery
An enterprise of Kewanna which should have a most prominent place in this
review, is the above named industry, whose fine brick plant is situateed near
the C. C. & L. R.R. depot.
This industry has been established in Kewanna for the past two years and is
fitted with all the modern and best machinery for making butter of the highest
quality. The owners are Messrs. Clifford & Penrod, who are competent and
experienced men and by their successful management their business has rapidly
increased until now they make about 8,000 pounds of butter per week and pay out
about $5,000 for milk per month.They are able to buy all the milk and cream
their plant can use, as they pay the highest market price. They buy from all
around Kewanna, and great quantities of milk and cream are shipped in to them
over the two railroads; in the latter case they pay the transportation charges.
The main selling point of the firm is at Philadelphia, but they also have a
large trade on their "Golden Chain Butter" at Peru, Logansport, Terre
Haute, Richmond, Hammond and South Bend.
Henry D. Howell
An old and well established business house of Kewanna is the clothing store of
Henry D. Howell, which is well stocked and one that favorably impresses a
visitor of the town.
In his stock will be found the stylish, perfect fitting tailored clothing of
celebrated manufacturers, including the lines mady by "The Bell
System," "The Peck Clothing" for men, "Vicking System,"
for boys and children.
His suits for men, youths or boys are of the best material and of weaves and
shades of the season, combined with cuts that are "up-to-dateness"
themselves, made for the light or heavy weights and always satisfactory.
The line of men's and boys' furnishings handled at this clothing house is a
large one. Anything in the line of fine or work shirts, neckwear, hosiery,
overalls, hats, caps, etc., can be found here.
The store has but recently moved into new and larger quarters where it is more
suitably situated to show its stock in a better display.
This store is a very popular one with the people and has a big trade. The
proprietor is well and favorably known as one of the pushers of the town. Mr.
Howell is assisted in his store by Mr. Elza J. Blosser who has been connected
with the business since it was started. He is a competent manager and one with
whom the people like to trade.
L. M. Shoemaker
Throughout the county there are several fine furniture stores and one of these
is located in Kewanna, formerly owned by G. F. Barger, but recently purchased by
Mr. L. M. Shoemaker, a Roann business man who has been engaged in the furniture
business in other places for a number of years.
The store is well stocked with furniture of grades and prices to suit all
classes of people. Prices are as low, too, on all goods as any merchant can give
on reliable goods in a legitimate market.The management expects some profit on
his sales -- that is what he is in business for -- but he is satisfied with a
living profit and likes to sell so his customers will come again.
In connection with this store is an undertaking establishment with a fine line
of funeral supplies of all kinds, and a beautiful funeral car.
The store is in charge of Ray O. Hoover, son of C. F. Hoover, the Akron
furniture dealer and undertaker. He is a graduate of the Chicago College of
Embalming, is a prompt and competent funeral director, and his management always
meets with satisfaction.
L. E. Daniel & Co.
Kewanna, located in the center of a rich agricultural country, makes it
necessary that the farmers have a place to sell their grains, and to fulfill
this necessity the large elevator of L.
E. Daniel & Co. was built about five years ago. The elevator is one fitted
with modern machinery to do all kinds of custom grinding and they have on hand
at all times a large supply of ground feed.
At this place grains of all kinds are bought the year round and the highest
market prices are paid; in many instances their prices are better than those of
surrounding towns. The establishment has a large business which is a proof of
its popularity. The people have learned that the prices paid here are the best,
and when grain is being harvested there may be seen from twenty to thirty teams
waiting to dump the loads. This business draws a big trade for Kewanna.
They handle a big stock of drain tile in all sizes, salt in the barrel, flour of
the best make, and grass seeds in any variaty.
J. M. Huston
A livery, feed and sale barn that is becoming favorably known all over this
section is that of Mr. J. M. Huston, located in a brick building near the
Vandalia station at Kewanna.
Here any kind of a single or double, light or heavy hitch can always be had at a
minute's notice, at any hour of the night or day, and competent drivers will be
furnished if so desired. The horses, carriages and turnouts of this barn are all
fine and receive many compliments. The horses are good roadsters, look fine,
have the life and are well groomed. The barn furnishes carriages for funerals,
weddings, etc., and the business is a large one, well patronized.
The Toner House
A stranger going into a town generally judges the place by its hotel facilities,
and because of the Toner House, Kewanna has gained a very good reputation among
the traveling commercial men's circles.
This hotel, at present under the management of Mr. J. R. Watson, is an excellent
one for a town the size of Kewanna. It is located in a fine brick block and has
large, airy, well-furnished rooms, a finely appointed dining room which has the
best of service. The culinery department is one that gives satisfaction and the
people who stop there are always pleased. The hotel is conveniently situated,
within easy walking distance of the railroad stations and in the center of the
business district.
The house enjoys the patronage of the traveling public and a number of local
business men board there.
J. G. Cannon
The people of the west side of Fulton county have an exceedingly fine place to
buy their hardware at honest prices, in the emporium owned by Mr. J. G. Cannon.
This store has been located in Kewanna for the past thirteen years. It is a
hardware store of the twentieth century mold -- an up-to-date stock, and kept in
the best of order. Everything in the hardware line can be found here. They
handle superior makes of stoves and ranges; builders' tools, and staple
hardware; building hardware, paints, oil and varnish, glass, granite and
tineware; in fact everything to be found in a modern hardware store.
The proprietor, having had years of experience, thoroughly understands the
business and by his fair and honest treatment is making a great success of it.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 21, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Snepp Bros have just received another new safe, it being really a set of forty
Mosler safety deposit vaults. This with the screw door safe recently bought,
will be installed in their bank. The contract for the stone work on their two
story brick bank building was let Saturday to Contractor Houser, of Culver, he
to begin work Wednesday.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 9, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The Vandalia people sent a gang from Logansport with the work train Saturday to
begin operations toward the construction of a depot to replace the one destroyed
by fire some months ago.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 4, 1905]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Ray Blausser is playing ball with Danville, Ill., in the KIT League and Roy
Blausser left Monday for Keokuk Iowa, to play with that city's team in the Iowa
State League.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, April 17, 1906]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Marshall Comer has bought the Baske & Prevo hardware stock and building at
Twelve Mile and took possession Monday morning.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 8, 1906]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Lou Hock, who has operated the bus and hack line at Kewanna for 30 years, is
dead at the age of 63 years. His death was hastened by grief over the loss of
his wife, who died last November. Mr. Hock was brought West as a waif when a
mere boy but before his death he had amassed property worth $30,000.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 4, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Lew Hock, of Kokomo, whose death was mentioned in the SENTINEL, last Monday,
left ten thousand dollars in his will to Charles Tarkington. This will be a
piece of good fortune to a former Rochester girl, as Mrs. Tarkington was
formerly Stella Downs, daughter of Frank Downs.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 6, 1907]
KEWANNA
Wm. Needham, of Peru, has bought a half interest in Ike King's Logan street meat
market and the firm is now styled King & Needham.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 18, 1907]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
A deal was closed Wednesday whereby Frank Tuttle takes over Elihu Scott's
interest in the firm of Scott & Tuttle, harness, hardware, buggies and
implement dealers.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 15, 1907]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Wm. Biggs, the druggist, who has been engaged in business here for five years,
on Tuesday night traded his business and stock to E. A. Elston for the 170 acre
Heimick farm in Rocheser township. Mr. Elston secured the store in the interests
of his son Clyde, who is a graduate of the Pharmacy department of Purdue
university.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 29, 1907]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Another business change. T. S. Hiatt, the hardware man, has sold out to Herman
L. Slick. Invoicing was completd Saturday and the new proprietor took possession
Monday morning.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 7, 1907]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The two large tanks for the Kewanna water system, weighing 15 tons each were
unloaded from the cars Monday and, by the aid of a traction engine, were rolled
west on Aurora street, Tuesday, to the pumping station. About five blocks of
water mains are yet to be installed. An average of fifteen men are employed on
the construction and Foreman Tony Young says the chances are that the system
will be completed by Feb 1st.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 4, 1908]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The new cigar factory still grows. On Monday morning two more expert journeymen
cigar makers were put to work. They are George Scheiber, Angola, and Dan
Goodrich, of Rochester. Both are of course union men and the popular homemade
brands.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 16, 1908]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Campbell & Weirrick, of Winamac, were in town Monday arranging to take
Kewanna in on a circuit they are establishing for the presentation of weekly
motion picture and illustrated song shows.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, July 6, 1908]
TO BUILD SEWER
The state board of health has taken a hand in a situation that exists at Kewanna,
resulting from a writ of mandate issued by the circuit court against the Kewanna
town council to compel it to put in a sewer system. Having been censured because
of the condition of his hotel S. T. Toner, the proprietor, finding that he could
not get adequate sewer connections to improve his hotel, sought the writ of
mandate. His suit was successful, but a difficulty that is said to exist among
the town officials led to the installation of only open ditch sewers along the
streets. This system has not yet been completed.
After inspecting the system Frank Tucker, one of the state board of health's
inspectors, has reported to the board that the open ditches will lead to worse
conditions even than existed before. As a result of this report the state board
of health has advised that the construction of open ditches be discontinued, and
that the best thing the town can do is to employ a good sanitary engineer to lay
out a sanitary sewerage system. This kind of a system, the board advised, should
be constructed as soon as possible.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, July 28, 1908]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The Kewanna High school foot ball team defeated the Star City school team, at
Swisher's Park, last Saturday afternoon, by a score of 18 to 5.
The postoffice has moved into the vacant room first door east of the Leasure
& Weller restaurant, Monday afternoon, where it will remain while the
regular room is repaired, papered, painted and a new floor is installed.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 3, 1908]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
A change of much interest in local business circles was made Saturday when W. V.
Clifford sold his interest in the Golden Chain Creamery to his partner, Frank
Penrod.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 12, 1909]
DR. HOWELL SELLS OUT
Dr. J. C. Howell has sold his hotel and residence property at Delong and will
move back to his former home in Kewanna. In speaking of his return, the Kewanna
Herald says:
"His many friends hereabout are glad to have him again as a resident. He
will surely be missed at Delong, where he was druggist, doctor, landlord,
Justice of the peace, merchant, marrying squire, telephone agent, legal advisor
and politician. He is prominently known throughout this section and besides his
other numerous virtues he has the unique distinction of having started the first
newspaper in Wabash, Marshall and Fulton counties in the days when a print shop
outfit could easily be moved on one wagon."
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 15, 1909]
OLD EDITOR GONE
Dr. John Q. Howell, one of the pioneer residents of Fulton county, passed away
Sunday at the home his son, Henry D. Howell, at Kewanna.
Dr. Howell was born in Miami county, Ohio in July 1827 and in early life moved
to Muncie, Indiana, where he learned the printers' trade. Later his father, John
Howell moved to Wabash county, where he found employment in the office of the
Upper Wabash Argus, published by Moses Scott. Shortly afterward he took charge
of the mechanical department of the Herald of Freedom -- a paper published in
the interest of the Free-Soil party, at Marion, Ind. This paper was discontinued
for want of sufficient patronage, and after purchasing its presses, type, etc.,
Dr. Howell removed to Anderson, Ind., in 1848, and commenced the publication of
the True Democrat. One year he sold this paper and went to Cincinnati, where he
purchased new presses type, etc., and located at LaGro, Wabash county, Ind.,
where he began the publication of the Indiana Eagle.
The first newspaper established in Fulton county came through the energy of Dr.
John Q. Howell. It was in 1850 that he hauled, by wagon, the first printing
outfit into the county and commenced publication of the Rochester Star, in one
of the unused rooms in the old court house. The paper was non-partisan and the
population of the county and the limited patronage from the few merchants made
the financial life of the enterprise a struggle and Dr. Howell sold it to a firm
who changed ownership and name and policy frequently until the SENTINEL entered
the field.
He then located at Plymouth and published the Plymouth Pilot until the spring of
1852. This closed his experience as a journalist. Selling his paper, good will,
etc., he formed plans for going to California.
Later he again returned to Fulton county where he practiced medicine, and still
later he embarked in the hotel business at Delong where he lived until just
about a month ago when he sold his business there and moved to Kewanna where he
died.
He was twice married, first with Rebecca Halstead, at Muncie, Ind., and as a
result of their union four sons were born. He was a member of Rochester Lodge
No. 79 F. and A. M. and that order laid his remains away with due ceremony
Monday afternoon.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 23, 1909]
KEWANNA TO HAVE JAIL
At a meeting of the Kewanna town council last evening, it was decided to
purchase a jail for that city and accordingly two steel cells will be bought.
The same will be placed in the city water works station.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 22, 1910]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
While being shaved Saturday evening, John Lisey turned his head and a razor
being operated by Don Foglesong cut the top of his nose off. The trimmed
proboscis bled profusely for almost an hour and the section cut off was placed
back in position and it is believed will grow back into place.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 28, 1911]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Two elevators in this part of the county changed hands the first of the year,
that of A. B. Toner in Kewanna, and that of A. A. Campbell at Leiters Ford. The
new owners of the Kewanna institution are L. H. Jordan of Indianapolis and F. J.
Baird of Advance. John L. Hoesel, of Monon, puchased the bnusiness of Mr.
Campbell. In both cases the new owners took charge Jan. 1. Mr. Hoesel, the new
owner of the Leiters Ford elevator, is a former Monterey man, a son-in-law of
Daniel Bruce, and is known to many in the western part of the county. B. B.
Campbell, who has been manager of the Campbell elevator, will be retained by the
new owner. The consideration of the Leiters elevator was $5,000.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 6, 1912]
NEW POOL ROOM
Ed Leiter and Marion Carter will open a pool room in the room now occupied by
David Heiminger. They have ordered their tables and will open up for business in
the near future.
Mr. Leiter is not new to the business, he formerly owned the pool room now run
by McKay & Cazort. This make two pool rooms for Kewanna. David Heiminger has
purchased the property next to the new pool room and will move his business over
there.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, December 13, 1912]
KEWANNA
Jack Gillispie bought the dray business of Clem Hrikle [sic] Monday and took
possession at once.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 27, 1913]
KEWANNA SECURES AUTOMOBILE PLANT
Special to the Sentinel
Kewanna, Ind., April 6 -- The Majestic Automobile Co., of Chicago, will build a
medium priced car here and is now preparing a building they have secured to
start manufacturing two models. The location is north of the Vandalia depot, in
a building formerly occupied by a poultry dealer. The car will be modeled along
foreign lines with the radiator located at the rear of the motor. Officials of a
handle and box factory are also here looking for desirable locations.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 6, 1916]
CORPORATION DISSOLVES
Because the taxes raised from the town property was not sufficient to support
the schools, the Kewanna school corporation has dissolved and will in the future
be supported by the township.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 2, 1916]
MAJESTIC MOTOR CO. BOOSTERS ARE HERE
Charles S. SPENNY and L. K. DAVIS of Chicago are in Rochester in the interests
of the Majestic Motor Car Co., the concern which recently established a factory
at Kewanna. The two men are selling stock in the company at $10 a share. The
company proposes to place upon the market a five passenger car which will sell
for $1,075. A Majestic seven passenger was driven to Rochester Wednesday by the
men. About 75 Kewanna men have invested in the enterprise. The company wants to
secure an agent and an office in Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 24, 1916]
KEWANNA PROGRESSES
Sidney A. Buchler of Battle Creek and Chas. M. Walters of North Manchester have
bought out Clarence L. Pherson, Kewanna undertaker and furniture dealer,
possession to be given on or before June 17th. Both they and T. L. Harrison,
another Kewanna undertaker, will install motor hearss service.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 3, 1916]
RECEIVER IS WANTED FOR MOTOR CAR CO.
Special to the Sentinel
Kewanna, Ind., Aug 21 -- Receivership and injunction for the Majestic Motor Car
Co. of Chicago and Kewanna are asked by L. C. Roberts, treasurer, who is known
to many of the Kewanna stockholders. The bill alleges that the defendant, a
corporation of Arizona, is selling the stock of the corporation by false
representations of the financial and industrial condition of the corporation,
well knowing that it is insolvent, the the plaintiff owns 50 shares of the
stock, each share being of the par value of $10, and that he was led to believe
that they were preferred stock but in fact they are only common stock.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 21, 1916]
GETS $23,959 JOB BY A MARGIN OF $1
William COOPER of Rochester got the contract Monday for building the new high
school at Kewanna with a bid of $23,959, just $1 lower than the offer submitted
by Samual Hay of South Bend.
Five men put in bids upon removing the old building and erecting a new one. Mr.
Cooper's price for building the new structure was higher than that submitted by
Hay, but his offer on the old building was much lower. The Hipskind Plumbing Co.
of Wabash got the plumbing and heating contract for $7,100. No local men
submitted bids. Gast and Son of Akron bid on the biilding at $25,536.
The new school will contain eight rooms and will be modern in every way. Geo W.
Garman, trustee, let the contract and his attorney was Arthur Metzler of
Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 15, 1917]
TO LAY STONE
Announcement has been made that the corner stone of the new Kewanna school will
be layed Monday afternoon, Sept. 17. Dr. Chas. Lippincot, of South Bend, will
have charge of the exercises. Many Rochester people are expected to attend.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 15, 1917]
SIX BUSINESS CHANGES IN WEEK AT KEWANNA
A number of changes in the personnel and ownership of business houses of Kewanna
has occurred in the past week.
Roy Blosser, who has been manger of the Pure Oil station for the past year, has
leased it of the company. He has added a line of automobile accessories.
On last Saturday, Milton V. Robinson traded his bakery for a 160 acre farm in
Pulaski county west of Winamac to A. M. Schultz of Monterey, who has assumed
personel management of his purchase. Harry B. Orr, who has been employed as
baker for the past three years by Mr. Robinson will remain with Mr. Schultz. Mr.
Robinson will continue to reside at Kewanna.
Another deal was closed last Saturday whereby Forrest Willoughby sold a half
interest in the Electric Service Shop to Guy Urbin, who has already taken entire
charge of the business. Mr. Willoughby has accepted a position as district agent
for the Westinghouse Electric Company and will travel in this territory selling
home lighting outfits. James Weller will remain with the Electric Shop.
The repair department of the East End Garage, owned by Elmer Smith, was sold to
Fery Byers and Lee Ingraham, who have been in charge of it for the past three
years. The purchasers obtain full possession of the repair department and a
small building on the west side of the garage building proper, while Mr. Smith
retains the storage department on the east side of the building, gasoline, oil
and accessories.
Mead Haimbaugh who for several years has been the agent for the Standard Oil
Company at Kewanna, has been promoted by the company to a position in South
Bend. Ralph Johnson of Kewanna has been placed in charge of the Kewanna branch
by the Standard Oil Company. The change was effective on June 15.
James T. Burns, proprietor of a general store at Kewanna has traded his farm
north of Delong for three houses [which] are well located on one of the main
streets of Kokomo and rent for a handsome sum, thus insuring Mr. Burns of a nice
income each month.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, June 20, 1925]
RESTAURANT SOLD
Kewanna Herald.
Thursday of last week the Washburn Cafe was purchased by Ralph V. Johnston, who
is now in charge. Mr. Johnston contemplates making some changes in the service
and we hope will meet with success. Mr. Washburn at present is in Rochester with
his wife, but what his future plans are we are not advised.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, February 2, 1926]
WILL CLOSE OUT BUSINESS
Kewanna Herald.
Enyeart Brothers, proprietors of one of the old reliable hardware stores of
Kewanna, have determined to dispose of their large stock of hardware and
implements and quit the business. Their going out of business will be a distinct
loss to the business world of Kewanna, as they have established an enviable
reputation of square dealing and good goods and the public will keenly feel the
loss of this store.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, September 20, 1926]
TWO NEW KEWANNA BUSINESS HOUSES CHANGE OWNERS
This week two Kewanna stores were sold, C. J. VanAusdal of Eaton, Ohio buying
both of them. The James T. Burns general store at the corner of Main and Logan
streets was traded for a four room apartment house in Indianapolis. Harry Lewis,
of Fort Wayne, and Morris Bausingham, of Pierceton, are invoicing the stock of
goods. They expect to complete their labors in time for Mr. VanAusdal to open
the store for business Tuesday morning. The new proprietor's son will stay in
Kewanna and operate the store. Mr. and Mrs. Burns do not expect to leave Kewanna.
The second and last deal by Mr. VanAusdal was for the William Gohl's Sons gents
furnishing store on Main street. He took possession of this place of business
Thursday. Mr. Gohl also came into possession of a four room apartment house on
Blaine Ave., in Indianapolis, for which he traded the Goods Furnishing store, an
equity in a Marshall county farm and a 220 acre farm in Washington county.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 2, 1927]
JAS. I. BARNES, LOGAN, TO BUILD KEWANNA H.S.
James I. Barnes, construction contractor of Logansport, Ind., was on Thursday
awarded the general contract for the erection of the new high school building
for the town of Kewanna. The price bid was $31,000. According to word from
William B. Starr, trustee of Union township, work will start immediately and the
new structure will be ready for occupancy on or before September 1st of this
year. The total cost of this new school will aggregate $45,000.
The contract for the electrical work on the building was let to Guy Barger of
this city at a figure of $970. The awarding of the heating and plumbing work has
not as yet been announced.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 6, 1928]
STATION IS SOLD
The Pure-Oil Filling Station at Kewanna, owned and operated by Roy Blosser for
the past four years has been sold to James T. Burns who for many years was
engaged in the meat business in this city
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, September 3, 1928]
KEWANNA'S NEW H.S. BUILDING IS TO BE DEDICATED OCT. 18
The dedication services of the new Annex of the Kewanna School Building will be
held in the auditorium on Thursday evening, October 18 at 7 o'clock.
The music will be in charge of the Director of Music, Mrs. Maude Conrad, and the
speaker will be Rev. Sheets of North Manchester College and Roy Jones our County
Superintendent.
The citizens and student body of Kewanna, are jointly proud of this new
addition, which will return [sic] the crowded condition of the old building and
provide for better and more efficient training of the boys and girls.
Remodel Old Building
The old building will now be made almost entirely into class rooms for the grade
pupils and it can accommodate all school children in Union Township except the
Bruce Lake School which is taught by Thomas Ree. There are 435 students and 12
teachers in the Kewanna School this year.
Cost $50,000
Ground was broken for the new annex on May 20 and is now almost entirely
completed at a total cost of $50,000. The building proper is made of red brick,
cement and steel, and is fire proof. It is located just west of the old building
and joins it by a large and spacious hall way. The two main entrances are on the
south side and in direct line with the main entrance of the old building.
William Rannels of Logansport, was the architect. The plumbing was done by Henry
Zellers, of Kewanna, and the wiring and electrical fixtures furnished by Guy
Barger of Rochester. The building is heated by steam heat, furnished by a large
boiler, and installed by the Carrey Heating and Plumbing Company of Knox,
Indiana.
Description of Annex
The new annex is two stories high and has 16 rooms, which will soon be fully
equipped, and most of them are already in use. The gymnasium-auditorium, on the
first floor, is a room 68 feet by 71 feet, and has a seating capacity of 1,000
people. This room can also be used as a community hall for any public meetings
as well as a gymnasium for basketball games. The stage is 21 feet by 30 feet on
the east of the auditorium, and has two dressing rooms. The two balconies are on
the west of the auditorium-gymnasium. The fine large assembly room is on the
north side of the second floor, has windows all on the north side, and three
large sky lights, thus insuring perfect satisfaction in regard to light.
This now provides the school with 7 large class rooms, (and eventually 3 more)
library, laboratory, 2 offices, 4 lavatories, 3 halls, domestic science room,
manual training room, auditorium-gymnasium, assembly room, music room, first aid
room, 2 shower bath rooms with lockers, etc., for basketball teams, and 9 rooms
for the grade pupils.
Invitation To All
The people of Fulton county are invited and urged to attend these dedication
services, and inspect the entire school building which we believe when entirely
finished and equipped will be one of the finest school buildings in any town its
size in Northern Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, October 15, 1928]
PURCHASED RESTAURANT
Harold and Carl Carr of Kewanna have purchased the John Lisey Restaurant in that
city. They took possession last Tuesday. The new owners have repainted and
papered the restaurant giving it a very inviting appearance.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, May 25, 1929]
FILLING STATION SOLD
The Pure Oil Company station at Kewanna was sold Wednesday by William Miller to
Frank Hardin and his son, Ed. Mr. Hardin for several years has operated a dairy
in Kewanna which business he will now dispose of.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 5, 1929]
KEWANNA POPULATION 675 SHOWN BY 1930 CENSUS
A preliminary census report received from the South Bend District on the census
recently completed at Kewanna, Ind., shows there are now 675 people residing
within the corporate limits of the town.
This figure shows a slight decrease over that of the 1920 check-up at which time
the population was found to be 695. The report, as stated by Clarence Sedgwick,
supervisor of census is not official and of course is subject to correction.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 19, 1930]
RESTAURANT SOLD
Carl and Harold Cary sold their restaurant in Kewanna Wednesday evening to H.
Brewster, of Kokomo. The new proprietor took possession of the restaurant and is
now operating it.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 16, 1930]
KEWANNA CAFE SOLD
The Ideal Cafe in Kewanna which was owned by Mr. and Mrs. F. P. Gould was sold
Wednesday to U. E. Slifer and his nephew, Von Slifer, of Logansport. The
purchasers have taken possession. Mr. and Mrs. Gould will move to South Bend
where Mr. Gould has a position as advertising solicitor of a labor paper.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 30, 1930]
NEW TOWN MARSHAL
The Kewanna town board at their meeting early this week appointed Elmer Hinkle
to be marshal of the town to succeed Jacob Blausser, deceased. Mr. Hinkle has
already engaged upon his duties.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 31, 1930]
KEWANNA YOUTH BUILDS FIRST PLANE IN COUNTY
The only plane which was ever built in Fulton county can now be seen at the home
of Jim Troutman, aged 16, who lives with his parents on a farm two and a half
miles southwest of Kewanna. The lad has been working on his monoplane for the
past four years during his spare time. With the exception of the motor which was
taken from a model T Ford he has constructed all of the parts. The plane has a
wingspread of 27 1/2 feet and weighs but 750 pounds. Mr. Troutman is now taking
lessons in flying.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, October 29, 1931]
PURCHASES BUILDING
Robert Tomlinson has purchased the building in Kewanna where he has opderated a
garage for a number of years. Tomlinson purchased the building of B. H. Kumler.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 29, 1932]
COMPANY RE-ORGANIZED
The partnership existing between Jordan and Baird who were engaged in the
elevator business at Kewanna was dissolved by mutual consent Tuesday. F. W.
Baird will continue to operate the business under the firm name of the Baird
Grain Co.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 18, 1932]
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ORGANIZED AT KEWANNA
A Chamber of Commerce has been organized at Kewanna by the business men of that
city. The first meeting was held last Monday night in the basement of the
Kewanna library. The next meeting will be held in the library basement on
Tuesday evening, March 22. One of the purposes of the organization is to try to
get new industries to locate in Kewanna. The following men were elected at the
first meeting to serve as officers during the coming year: Peter J. Dwyer,
president; W. H. Myders, vice-president; D. B. Hudkins, secretary; John Long,
treasurer.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 18, 1932]
GOING OUT OF BUSINESS
Vaughn Slifer who has operated a restaurant at Kewanna for a number of years
announced early this week that he would close his place of business Saturday. He
has secured a position as a clerk in the postoffice at Buffalo, Wyo.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 22, 1932]
RE-OPEN RESTAURANT
Mr. and Mrs. Vern Sanders have taken charge of the restaurant in Kewanna which
was abandoned by Earl Slifer. They have installed an electrically operated soda
fountain. They hope to open the cafe on May 2.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 29, 1932]
NEW FUNERAL PARLOR
H. B. Kumler, who recently closed his furniture and undertaking parlor at
Kewanna, is to open a like establishment at Mount Pleasant, Michigan, has
announced that he will open the new place of business next Saturday.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, June 10, 1932]
SOLD CAFE
H. O. Brewster has sold his cafe in Kewanna to Harry Hunneshagen of Lake Bruce.
Mr. Hunneshagen is undecided as to whether he will operate the cafe or sell it.
Mr. Brewster will move to Kokomo, where he has secured employment.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 13, 1933]
KEWANNA MEN CONSTRUCT FAIR COUNTING SYSTEM
Counting the visitors at the eight places of entrance to the Century of Progress
at Chicago, Illinois, is largely due to the work of two former residents of
Kewanna, namely F. B. Troutman, who is a son of William Troutman and who was
born on a farm near Kewanna. He was the contractor for the Totalizer or counter
placed at the various gates. He, it was, who did the mechanical designing,
manufacturing and installing. Virgil James, another Kewanna boy, and son of Mr.
and Mrs. Albert James, designed the electrical end of the system and helped Mr.
Troutman with his circuit scheme. The system allows an exact total and day's
total to be shown at any instant registered at the central point from all eight
gates over eight wires.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, August 11, 1933]
DISSOLVE PARTNERSHIP
A petition has been filed in the circuit court by Jordan Baird of Kewanna
against Fernando Baird and others seeking to dissolve the partnership at Kewanna
which now operates the Baird Grain Company. The Plaintiff also asks the
appointment of a receiver to take charge of the business.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, February 10, 1934]
BAKERY REOPENED
The bakery at Kewanna was reopened this week by Herman Bauer, who has leased the
bakery for several years. Mr. Bauer has added some new equipment which will make
the bakery one of the most modern in this section of the state.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, June 15, 1934]
NEW DOCTOR
Dr. Lawrence Kelsey of Monterey, a young physician of that town, has leased
office rooms in the home of Mrs. James Hines at Kewanna. Dr. Kelsey will open
his office at Kewanna in about three weeks. The young doctor has been an
assistant to his father at Monterey for several years.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 1, 1935]
BUYS KEWANNA STORE
On Wednesday of this week, Kenneth Hiland of Monterey, purchased the O. G.
Murray I.G.A. store in Kewanna. Mr. Murray operated the store here for the past
six years. Mr. and Mrs. Murray have not announced their plans for the future.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 26, 1935]
STARTING NEW STORE
Clyde C. Mosher, North Judson, has leased the H. D. Howell room beside the
postoffice at Kewanna and will open a grocery store. He will also add a meat
market to the store.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 17, 1935]
LOCATES IN KEWANNA
Dr. Kenneth Kraning, North Manchester, who graduated from the Indiana University
School of Medicine this year, has leased the office of Dr. Harold Tripp at
Kewanna and will locate there. Dr. Tripp is leaving Kewanna to take a post
graduate course in surgery in which he expects to specialize.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, June 25, 1935]
OPENS NEW BUSINESS
Herman M .Gilbert, South Bend, has leased the Henry Zellers building on North
Logan Street in Kewanna, and has embarked in the junk-buing business.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, August 16, 1935]
STORE MOVED
The Hewlett Hardware Store at Kewanna, which was opened there several months ago
has been moved to Toto by the proprietor E. L. Hewlett. Mr. Hewlett has been
operating a store at Toto as well as the one at Kewanna and found that the
duties of operating both stores was too great a task for him.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, November 9, 1935]
SELLS EQUIPMENT
Dale Bibler, of Fulton, and a former resident of Kewanna has purchased the meat
market equipment in a store located at Kewanna from Woodson Nelson and has moved
the equipment to Fulton.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 9, 1936]
BAKERY IS CLOSED
Elmer Campbell, who has operated a bakery in Kewanna for over a year, this week
closed the establishment and moved to Logansport, his former home.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 28, 1936]
PURCHASE BUILDING
Van Meter and Moore, farm implement dealers of this city and Kewanna, several
days ago purchased the East End Garage building in Kewanna. They will not take
possession of the building until January 1. In the interim many changes will be
made to the former garage building.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, June 26, 1936]
CAFE SOLD
The A. & D. Cafe in Kewanna was sold several days ago by Mr. and Mrs. W. E.
Ackert and daughter Dolores to John Dellinger of Lake Bruce, who is now in
possession.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 19, 1937]
SELLS GENERAL STORE
L. M. Shoemaker has sold his general store in Kewanna to Peter J. Dwyer of
Kewanna, who has taken possession of the same. Mr. Shoemaker is the postmaster
at Kewanna.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, May 3, 1937]
BUILDING IS SOLD
The building which housed the American National Bank at Kewanna, has been sold
to Virginia R. Kraning. The sale was approved by Judge Robert Miller in the
Fulton circuit court yesterday at the request of A. P. Flynn, receiver of the
bank. The consideration was $2,525.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 21, 1937]
WILL OPEN NEW STORE
Peter J. Dwyer has announced that he will open a new variety store in Kewanna in
the room which for so many years was occupied by he Shoemaker store. The opening
of the new store is planned for Saturday, Aug. 28.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 21, 1937]
PURCHASED PROPERTY
J. W. Messman has purchased the Yarlott property at the corner of Logan and
Pearl Streets in Kewanna and will erect a filling station and greasing place on
the same. Lester Shidaker will operate the station.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, September 13, 1937]
BAKERY HAS CLOSED
Wane Deckard, who has been operating a bakery in Kewanna for several months,
early this week closed his establishment and will locate in another city.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, September 25, 1937]
NEW STORE
Perry Calvin has arranged the F. S. Scott room on Main Street in Kewanna for a
confectionary and fruit store. The opening was held Saturday. Mrs. Inez Stroup
is in charge of the store.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, December 20, 1937]
KEWANNA TO CONSTRUCT ROLLER SKATING FLOOR
At a special meeting of the Kewanna Club held at the Public Library recently,
action was taken to start the work of building a cement floor on the town lot to
be used as a roller skating floor. The floor is to be about 40x100 feet in size.
The town board is cooperating to some extent in the work and will have the lot
leveled and put in readiness for the cement work. The grading it is now thought
will commence next Monday and the work will be pushed as rapidly as possible.
It is thought that it will be an excellent place for our young people to spend a
pleasant evening, as it is the intntion to have some one present at all times to
look after the crowd. - Kewana Herald.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 25, 1938]
RESTAURANT CLOSES
Verne Sanders has closed his restaurant in Kewanna because of his desire to
procure outside employment. Sanders has been in ill health for several months
and doctors have advised him to seek other employment. He will be employed as a
traveling man and work out of South Bend.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 15, 1938]
CAFE IS REOPENED
The Hudkins Cafe in Kewanna, which was closed several weeks ago when the former
proprietor went to Michigan to reside, was reopened Saturday by Byron Hudkins of
Knox. Mr. Huydkins is an experienced restaurant man and has operated cafes in
Kewanna and Knox.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, November 14, 1938]
MANAGER CHANGED
The Standard Elevator Company of Lapel, owners of an elevator at Kewanna, this
week announced that they had made a change in managers at the Kewanna branch. W.
W. Pugh of Windfall was named to succeed Ross Curless. Mr. Curless has no
immediate plans for the future. Mrs. Curless is well known as a poetess under
the name of Christine Curless. She has contributed poems to The News-Sentinel
and The Indianapolis News.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 4, 1939]
[Adv] OUTDOOR MOVIES in Kewanna Every Thursday Night. First show July 11th.
All new equipment. Perfect Sound. Giant Screen. The Best Pictures. Plent of
Seats.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, July 9, 1940]
NEW BUSINESS FIRMS
Two new business establishments opened in Kewanna today, one a variety store and
the other a tonsorial parlor. H. E. Fuller opened the variety store. He has been
engaged in a like bsiness in North Judson for a number of years. Alva Rans, who
operated the Joe Brunk shop for over a year, today opened his own barber shop in
the room just to the east of the postoffice in Kewanna.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 3, 1940]
NEW LIGHTING SYSTEM
The town board of Kewanna voted at their last meeting to erect a boulevard
lighting system on the two squares of Main street to take the place of old and
unsightly middle of the street wires which have done duty in the town for a
number of years. Many of these wires were blown down during the recent windstorm
The Kewanna town board will visit other cities where such lighting systems are
used to get ideas.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, December 7, 1940]
FILLING STATION SOLD
The Gulf Service Station in Kewanna has been sold by Joseph McPherson to John
Collins. Mr. McPherson has operated the station successfully for several years,
but sold the same because he has received an appointment as a clerk in the
postoffice at Kewanna.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 5, 1941]
CLOSES BLACKSMITH SHOP
William D. Evans this week closed his blacksmith shop in Kewanna after 46 years
of continuous operation. Evans opened his business on South Toner street in
Kewanna in 1895, moving there from this city. His wife died a few weeks ago and
he will live with his son, Elmer Evans, in Marshall county.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 18, 1941]
ORGANIZE LIONS CLUB AT KEWANNA; 33 MEMBERS
At a meeting in the Kewanna Methodist church last week a Lions Club was
organized in Kewanna, with 33 members in attendance.
The following officers were recently elected: President, Charles G. Henning;
First Vice-President, E. N. Shine; Second Vice-President, Foster Stout; Third
Vice-President, Lester H. Shidaker; Secretary-Treasurer, Elmer Seidel; Lion
Tamer, Rev. John M. Kirkpatrick; Tail Twister, Dr. R. T. Lord; Director (2
years), Carl L. Russell; Director (2 years), Robert M. Scott; Directors (1
year), Clyde Elston and Harry Button; Committee Chairmen - charter night, Carl
Russell; membership, Elias Miller; finance, M. E. Zellers; constitution and
by-laws, R. W. McConnell.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, September 24, 1942]
BEAUTY SHOP TO OPEN AT KEWANNA MARCH 27
It was learned today that Mrs. Glen Ginn, who resides on a farm east of Kewanna,
has rented the front part of the room recently used by Union Township Trustee
Ralph Johnston, in Kewanna, and plans to convert the former officeinto a modern
beaut shop. Mrs. Ginn has had several years experience inthe business.
Trustee Johnston has moved his office equipment to the rear part of the room
where he may be found duringhis office hours. The room was recently redecorated.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 17, 1944]
KEWANNA STORE SOLD TO NORTH JUDSON CITIZEN
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Fuller have sold their variety store at Kewanna to M. F.
Salathe of North Judson, who will take possession the latter part of this week.
The Fullers, who opened the store in Kewanna a little over four years ago, have
experienced good business during this period. They plan to enter the business
field at Lacross in the near future.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, March 8, 1945]
KEWANNA - AKRON BUS LINE [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Rochester, Kewanna and Akron Bus Line.
KEWANNA APRON FACTORY [Kewanna, Indiana]
NEEDS 40 WOMEN
Nathan Simon, of Chicago, owner of the Kewanna Apron factory, was in Kewanna the
fore part of this week, and informed a representative of the Herald that he is
in need of at least forty women and girls to work in the Kewanna Apron factory.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 16, 1924]
KEWANNA'S FACTORY PLANS IMPROVEMENT
N. SIMEON, of Chicago. proprietor of the apron factory at Kewanna, was in that
city this week looking after his concern. He plans this summer to enlarge the
capacity by putting in several new machines and remodeling a part of the factory
not now in use, to make a garage for the accommodation of women employes of the
factory who live in the country.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, January 10, 1925]
WILL OPEN NEW RESTAURANT
Kewanna Herald.
E. J. Blosser has leased the Toner hotel and is having the interior repainted
and repapered and everything cleaned up in nice shape preparatory to opening a
cafe and dining room in the front part of the Toner hotel. The rooms on the
second floor will also be used and the best of hotel accommodations furnished
the traveling public.
Mr. Blosser informs us that he will specialize in Sunday chicken dinners. With
new paper and paint in place the old building hardly looks like the same place.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, May 7, 1927]
KEWANNA APRON FACTORY IS SOLD TO NOAH SIMONS
Kewanna, Ind., July 9. - The Kewanna Apron Factory has been sold to Mr. N.
SIMONS the gentleman who formerly owned the plant. The son and other owners
having disposed of their plant in Chicago and Kewanna.
Mr. N. Simons, however, only purchased the Kewanna plant and expects to continue
to operate the plant. It will perhaps be necessary for Mr. Simons to put in a
cutting department and if he does it will give employment to more people in
Kewanna.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, July 9, 1927]
The Kewanna Apron Factory after being closed for several weeks will re-open
for business next Monday morning. About 30 women are given employment by the
factory.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, December 6, 1929]
APRON FACTORY CLOSED
William Aylward, supt of the Kewanna Apron Factory, has received word from the
owner of the plant, N. Simons, of Chicago, to close the factory and to move his
effects to Chicago where he would be given employment. None of the machines or
equipment of the Kewanna plant will be moved as the owner is desirous of selling
the plant. The plant in Kewanna gave employment to over 100 women and girls.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 15, 1930]
KEWANNA AUTO EXCHANGE [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA MAN BUYS TIRE STORE HERE; TO ENLARGE
John Speed, owner of the used tire store on North Main street has sold it to
Harold Hendrickson of Kewanna, owner of the Kewanna Auto Exchange. Mr. Speed
decided on the sale when he was told by physicians that he would be unable to do
much work for eight weeks, as a result of the breaking of three ribs on the
right side recently when he fell from a chair.
Mr. Hendrickson will continue to operate the local store and will add a used car
department.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 1, 1925]
KEWANNA BAKERY [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA BAKERY BURNED
The interior of the Kewanna Bakery, owned by Clarence Culp, formerly of this
city, was completely destroyed by fire of an unknown origin late Saturday night.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, September 13, 1921]
BAKERY SOLD
A deal was closed Friday by E. J. Blosser whereby Milton V. Robinson of Culver
bought the Kewanna Bakery, Hoffman Brothers, of Akron, who recently took it over
from C. E. Culp, retiring and returning to their former home.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 14, 1922]
PURCHASES BAKERY
Ort Waltz, local real estate dealer, has purchased the Kewanna bakery of
Clarence Culp. Culp, however, will remain in charge until September 1.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 29, 1922]
BAKERY SOLD
Harry B. Orr, proprietor of the Kewanna Bakery disposed of his plant this week
to Herman Bawer, of Metea, who was formerly employed in the Kiddie Knead bakery
at Logansport. The transfer will be made Monday
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, May 10 1926]
KEWANNA BAND [Kewanna, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
__________
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
A bunch of the citizens who have subscribed a total of $340 for the instruction
of the Kewanna Band got together Tuesday night and effected a permenent
organization. Be it said to the everlasting credit of the citizens that not one
who was asked to subscribe refused to do so. Elmer Evans will be employed at a
salary of $300 a year to instruct the band, which in turn will render a free,
open air concert each Wednesday night for five months next season.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 2, 1905]
KEWANNA BUTTER & PRODUCE COMPANY [Kewanna, Indiana]
NEW CREAMERY STATION TO OPEN
E. W. Clary Tuesday rented his building formerly the Vine Curtis Meat Market on
Wall street to the Kewanna Butter and Produce Company. The firm has been doing
business in the western part of the county. Chas. Towne was given as the manager
of the station. D. W. Sibert, president of the Kewanna State Bank, is president
and treasurer of the company. Mr. Sibert when interviewed this morning on the
long distance refused to deny or affirm the report that they were going to enter
the local field against Armour's.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, January 15, 1920]
The Kewanna Butter and Produce company has leased a building at Athens and
has opened a cream station at that place.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, February 16, 1925]
KEWANNA CARNEGIE LIBRARY [Kewanna, Indiana]
In 1905 the first Kewanna library was organized and operated in a room in the
local school. Mrs. Jessie Toner was the first librarian.
The present brick library was built in 1914 with an $8,000 gift from Carnegie
Corporation.
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, and Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
__________
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Over two hundred new books were placed on the shelves of the Kewanna Public
Library the first of the week, making in all over fifteen hundred books.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 5, 1908]
WILL GET LIBRARY
Kewanna now stands an excellent chance of obtaining a public library if the town
and Union township will guarantee to furnish it and stand the expense of the
upkeep - not less than $800 a year. Andrew Carnegie has offered to build an
$8,000 building, if these terms are accepted, and it is thought they will be.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 27, 1913]
KEWANNA ASSURED OF LIBRARY
Kewanna, Ind., Sept. 13 - Kewanna will get her Carnegie library, although the
money for the site was not produced as it was planned it should be.
After two months of work soliciting pledges both in town and out, the end of the
road was reached recently, and the officials borrowed $400 from the First
National Bank of Rochester to cover the unpaid pledges. In addition, nearly $300
was advanced from the library treasury, this representing the amount neither
pledged nor paid.
The balance of the required $1,000 was both pledged and paid, so that the Board
now has a deed and clear title to the site, embracing a frontage of 71 feet on
east Main street, opposite the Eureka theater. This meets the requirements of
the Carnegie corporation and the next step is to submit them plans which meet
their approval, when they will advance $8,000 for the construction of the
building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 13, 1913]
KENDRICK'S PLANS ARE ACCEPTED
W. K. Kendrick, Rochester architect, was Tuesday notified that his plans and
specifications for Kewanna's $8,000 Carnegie library had been accepted. The
building will be erected this fall.
Mr. Kendrick is receiving congratulations from his friends in as much as
architects from Chicago, South Bend and a number of other cities submitted plans
for the structure. It will be of grey brick and stone, somewhat similar in plan
to the Rochester library, but smaller, of course.
Kewanna people have worked hard this summer for the building, agitation for
which was begun less than a year ago. Enough was raised on subscription to
purchase the lot, and Carnegie then donated the money to put up the building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, October 7, 1913]
POSTPONE LETTING
Just a few hours before the appointed time for opening sealed bids for the
construction of the proposed Kewanna Carnegie Library, Saturday, a letter came
from the Carnegie Corporation stating that they had received and carefully
inspected the plans; were compelled to offer a few suggestions for minor
changes, principally pertaining to the entrance. This required postponement of
the contract letting.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 22, 1913]
GET BIG CONTRACT
John Hill of this city, has been given the contract for the brick work on the
new library building in Kewanna. His bid was $7,000. O. W. Stengel of this city
was awarded the contract for the heating at $300. A Kewanna man received the
plumbing work. The building must be finished by next fall.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, February 17, 1914]
WORK BEGUN ON KEWANNA'S NEW CARNEGIE LIBRARY
Kewanna, Ind., Apr. 14 -- Work was today (Tuesday) begun upon Kewanna's $10,000
Carnegie library building by contractor Hill of Rochester, who will erect the
structure designed by Architect Kendrick, also of the county seat. Kewanna is
highly elated over securing the building which is expected bo be in use by next
fall. All of the material is on the ground.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, April 14, 1914]
KEWANNA ITEMS
The new Kewanna-Union Township public library was dedicated on last Tuesday
afternoon, the addresses being delivered by a man from Purdue University, the
three local ministers assisting in the services.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 27, 1914]
KEWANNA, CHIEF [Fulton County]
It is believed that the Potawatomi migrated from the north and east, arriving in
Fulton County about 1800.
Kee-wau-nay was a war chief of the Potawatomies. An old man in 1837, Chief
Kewanna was probably not born in Fulton County. The Village of Kee-wau-nay and
the charming lake which was in close vicinity may have been named after the
chief.
"Kee-wau-nay" means prairie chicken and most historians do not think
that the lake and town were named for the chief, for he was not recorded as
being very important among the chiefs.
The spelling of Indian names varied with the white interpreter. The name "Kee-waw-nee
and his x mark appear on several treaties, including the October, 1832, treaty
signed at the Tippecanoe River three miles north of Rochester, in which he and
two other chiefs were given eight sections of land. This indicates his band was
small, as Chief Aubbeenaubbee was given 36 sections.
Kee-waw-nee also signed the 1836 treaties concluded at Chippewanong under a big
sycamore that still stands by the Tippecanoe River west of the Haimbaugh round
barn.
A map in the Ft. Wayne library shows "Kewannaa's village" to be
southeast of Bruce Lake, but we now have evidence that the village was on a hill
on the north side of the lake. George Winter drew a sketch of the village in
1837 and described the games of riding and cards the Indians played for
amusement.
Kewanna was one of the Indians called in to testify in the investigation of the
riot of 1836, conducted by Judge J. W. Edmonds. The riot was caused by white men
claiming huge debts owed by the Indians to be paid from the government land
payment. Some sources place the riot at Chippeway on the Tippecanoe River north
of Rochester and other say it took place at the Potawatomi mills on Lake
Manitou. Because of the riot in 1836, the next payment in 1837 was made in goods
rather than gold.
[Chief Kewanna, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
KEWANNA CLUB [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA BOASTS OF AN EXCLUSIVE CLUB
Kewanna, Ind., Dec. 16 -- The Kewanna Club, a new pleasure club for men and
young men, is gradually nearing readiness. The rooms in the rear over the Smith
& Gilbert sales rooms have been completed, and the club equipment installed.
The rooms are heated with a large base burner and lighted with electricity, the
entrance being private and from the north end of the building, each member
having his own key. The membership is limited to 30 and new members can be
admitted only on petition and after ballot of the membership.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 16, 1916]
ORGANIZE NEW CLUB
Seventy-five merchants of Kewanna have banded together and formed an
organization called the "Kewanna Club," which functions similar to a
commercial club or chamber of commerce. The first act of the new organization
was to finance regular Wednesday night band concerts.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 6, 1924]
KEWANNA COMBINATION SALES CO. [Kewanna, Indiana]
ORGANIZE SALES CO.
A bunch of farmers and business men got together Saturday night at the office of
J. E. Gottschalk, in Kewanna, and organized the Kewanna Combination Sales
Company, as announced in last week's Heraldd they would do. There were three
good auctioneers present, besides enough prospective regular participants to
insure the success of the venture.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 8, 1913]
KEWANNA COMMERCIAL CLUB [Kewanna, Indiana]
CITIZENS AFTER FACTORY
Kewanna is to have a Commercial club. A meeting was held to hear the report of a
committee appointed to investigate a factory location and the outcome was the
organization of the Commercial club. The factory is considered Kewanna's
greatest opportunity, and the leading citizens are keen after the factory
officials and hope that the outcome of their efforts will land them the factory
which will employ between seventy-five and eighty men and will have a weekly
payroll of between $800 and $1,000. Officers were elected at this meeting and
the following will serve this year: L. E. Daniel, president; C. M. Snepp,
vice-president; E. J. Buchanan, treasurer, and J. C. Jessen, secretary. A
committee was appointed to draft the rules and regulations and at an early date
the formal organization of the club will take place.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 21, 1911]
KEWANNA TO HAVE COMMERCIAL CLUB
Kewanna, April 25 -- A general invitation to all citizens of Kewanna has been
extended to attend a meeting in the public library next Monday night when it is
planned to take preliminary steps toward the organization of a chamber of
commerce, or commercial club. Much agitation for a live civic club has been
heard in the place of late, and it is expected that once launched, a chamber of
commerce would be a valuable asset to the city.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 25, 1924]
KEWANNA COOPERATIVE CREAMERY [Kewanna, Indiana]
COOPERATIVE CREAMERY
A groub of farmers from Wayne township were in the city Friday making a
preliminary investigation relative to establishing a farmers cooperative
creamery at Kewanna. Those interested were Vere Calvin, Wilt Metzger, S. S.
Collins, Charles Finney and Chris Felder.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 12, 1920]
STOP MAKING CHEESE
Because of a glutted market caused by recent overproduction, the Kewanna
Co-operative Creamery company, cheese and butter makers, have closed their
cheese production plant. They will probably dispose of their equipment soon.
Many other Indiana and Wisconsin cheese plants have been forced to close
recently for similar reasons. The Kewanna creamery will continue to manufacture
butter.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, June 26, 1942]
KEWANNA CREAMERY CO. [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Kewanna Golden Chain Creamery.
See Producers Creamery
__________
KEWANNA
From the Herald.
Ground was broke last week for the creamery. It will stand just south of the
C.C.&L. depot, and east of the city school building. It will be of brick and
part of it two stories high. The ground plan of the building is 36x45.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 12, 1903]
KEWANNA
From the Herald.
The Kewanna creamery turned out 1,000 pounds of butter last week besides
shipping several orders of cream. - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 30, 1904]
KEWANNA
The creamery took in a little over 9,000 pounds of milk Monday. This proves that
Messrs Clifford & Penrod made no mistake when they selected Kewanna as a
good point to establish their creamery.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 28, 1904]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
They were doing things down at the creamery Tuesday morning. The particular
thing they did was to church 950 pounds of as good butter as the state of
Indiana affords. Ordinary one day churnings run from 650 to 800 pounds. This one
is noteworthy in that it is the largest ever made at the Kewanna creamery. And
the farmers are becoming more and more interested in the milk selling business.
KEWANNA CREAMERY CO.
The Kewanna Creamery Co., capital $100,000, has been incorporated. The directors
are James F. Penrod, David B. HUDKINS and Francis A. WILSON.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 6, 1916]
INDIANA BANK IS NAMED KEWANNA CREAMERY RECEIVER
An action brought in the United States Court at Indianapolis on Saturday of last
week, by some Pennsylvania creditors of the Kewanna (Ind.) Creamery Co.,
resulted in the appointment of an ancillary receiver to take charge of the plant
pending the adjustment of the affairs of the company.
Judge Anderson of the U. S. Court, appointed the Indiana Bank & Trust
Company, receiver, to look after the business and Frank E. Bryant, president of
the bank, is now in Kewanna, going over the situation and hopes to be able to
keep the plant running, as it has been a great benefit to the people of Kewanna
and they are all anxious to see it continue work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 16, 1917]
NEW KEWANNA CREAMERY
Directors and stockholders of the First State Bank of Kewanna have drawn up
papers of incorporation for a new Kewanna creamery following the final closing
of the old plant last week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 26, 1917]
APPRAISE CREAMERY
Fred L. Hunt, a practical creamery man from Crawfordsville, Charles A. Tripp,
engineer for the Routh Packing plant at Logansport and Frank Penrod, a practical
creamery man and former owner of the Kewanna creamery, were in Kewanna Saturday
and made an appraisement of the Kewanna creamery, fixing it at the sum of $2,750
for the building and contents.
[The News-Sent inel, Saturday, August 9, 1930]
MAY REOPEN CREAMERY
A committee of business men and farmers from Kewanna and Union township are
attempting to have the Producers Creamery Company, a Farm Bureau organization,
to purchase the Kewanna creamery and continue its operation.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 12, 1930]
MAY REOPEN KEWANNA CREAMERY ON NEW PLAN
Progress is being made to secure a new creamery at Kewanna but because of the
financial complications of the old cramery the progress is somewhat slow. The
proposed creamery will be a branch of the Marion Co-Operative Creamery and will
serve the territory of western Fulton county, eastern Pulaski county and
northern Cass county. If enough cream producers can be signed to give the new
creamery sufficient volume of business to operate efficiently there is little
doubt that the new creamery will be started in Kewanna in the very near future.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, September 27, 1930]
KEWANNA CREAMERY OPEN
The Kewanna creamery which has been closed for several months reopened
Wednesday. D. E. Hudkins will have charge of the office, Amos Hickle will be the
butter maker, Claude Weller is in charge of the laboratory while the routes are
being cared for by George Sturgeon, Otto Rouch, O. J. Stookey and Lee Beehler.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 3, 1931]
BUY PROPERTY
The Kewanna Co-Operative Creamery has purchased the building in the north end of
Kewanna which is known as the Apron Factory Building. The consideration was
$500. The main building is of brick and is 30 feet by 125 feet. There are two
wings to the building which could be converted into a poultry receiving station.
About two acres of ground are included with the building.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 5, 1934]
CREAMERY MANAGER
Claude Weller has assumed the duties of manager of the Kewanna Co-Operative
Creamery which was made vacant by the resignation of Walter Wilson who has held
the position ever since the creamery has been in operation. Mr. Wilson, former
county surveyor, gave up the position so that he might devote his entire time to
looking after his farm intrests. Mr. Weller is an experienced creamery operator.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, July 3, 1936]
KEWANNA DRUG STORE [Kewanna, Indiana]
[Adv] The undersigned having purchased the above drug store - - - - Dr. J. Q.
HOWELL.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 20, 1877]
KEWANNA ELECTRIC PLANT [Kewanna, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Kewanna Herald.
A representative of A. A. Gast, of Akron, J. P. Hill, was here Friday afternoon
making measurements and securing other information necessary for making an
estimate on the cost of constructing lines for an electric light plant here.
[Rochester Sentinal, Friday, March 17, 1911]
ELECTRIC LIGHTS AT KEWANNA
Kewanna is to be electric lighted.
The proposition of L. M. Barnes of Remington, which has been under consideration
by the town board for several weeks, was taken up at the regular twice-monthly
meeting of the officials with the result that a twenty-five year franchise was
granted and a ten year contract was entered into.
The board granted it without a dissenting voice and nary a kick. Added to this,
they entered into a contract for public lighting which provides for forty
incandescent street lights of sixty candle power each, at an annual charge of
twenty-five dollars per or a total net cost of one thousand dollars.
The taxes will not be increased. The old school house debt has been finally
wiped off the slate and the money required heretofore for that commendable
purpose will now light the town, while the tax rate will not be increased a
penny.
A power plant will be built of brick and cement, along the C. & O. tracks.
Mr. Barnes states that with any decent kind of luck in receiving shipments he
will be able to furnish light within ninety days.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 24, 1913]
RUSH WORK
The electric light plant at Kewanna is rapidly nearing completion. The owner,
Mr. Barnes, who formerly owned a plant at Remington, Ind., will undoubtedly give
Kewanna a fine service. He sold the plant at Remington to the syndicate that is
furnishing light at Monticello and all the smaller towns in that section,
getting power from the Tippecanoe river at Monticello. The Kewanna plant will be
steam and of the very latest model.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 2, 1914]
KEWANNA ITEMS.
Work on the local electric light plant is at a standstill owing to the severe
winter weather. Several homes have been wired and are ready to hook on as soon
as a current is furnished.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 14, 1914]
KEWANNA ITEMS
The engines and dynamo at the new electric power plant were started Saturday
night and quite a number of business places and residences were lit up by
electricity for the first time in our town.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 1, 1914]
ELECTRIC PLANT SOLD
The Kewanna electric light plant has been sold by its Frankfort owner to M.
Oedekerk of Lebanon who will move to Kewanna and attempt to give better service.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 23, 1916]
AND STILL ANOTHER KEWANNA RECEIVER
Another Kewanna industry was placed in the hands of a receiver Monday morning
when Judge S. N. STEVENS appointed E. B. DeVAULT, receiver for the Kewanna
Electric Light Co. The action followed a petition filed by Lyle M. Barnes, who
organized the present company and who holds a mortgage on the property.
Charles J. SPARKS has been appointed receiver for the Fibreweb Co. of Kewanna.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 16, 1917]
KEWANNA ELEVATOR [Kewanna, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Kewanna Herald.
Another change in the ownership of the elevator in this part of the county was
made Tuesday afternoon when Starr Brothers purchased the Hufnaugle & Gentner
plant and business in Kewanna. The new owners will take possession the first of
March The new owners are successful elevator men. W. B. Starr, who now resides
at Kokomo, will move here and have personal charge of the business. He has
formerly been in the elevator business at New Castle. Associated in the business
with him will be J. H. Starr of Winamac. At the present time J. H. Starr is
associated with his brother, George, and they own and operate the elevator at
Winamac.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 24, 1912]
__________
Jacob Luther Kough was a farmer and was at one time employed at the Kewanna
Elevator. William was a farmer and like his father was at one time employed at
the Kewanna Elevator.
[Enyeart-Kough-Smith Families, Catherine Crabill Kough, Fulton Co Folks, Vol 2,
Willard]
L. E. Daniels purchased an elevator in Kewanna but later sold this and joined
the telephone company.
[Josiah Tomlinson Family, Mildred Tomlinson McColley, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
KEWANNA EXCHANGE BANK [Kewanna, Indiana]
NATIONAL BANK AT KEWANNA
The Kewanna Exchange Bank is to be succeeded by a national bank, the officers
having been elected, the cash paid in and the only thing now necessary is the
charter and final authority from the Comptroller of Currency of the government,
which is expected daily.
The stockholders met Wednesday and elected D. W. Sibert, President; Joseph
Slick, Vice President; W. H. Gohl, Cashier. The following Board of Directors was
also elected: D. W. Sibert, Jos. Slick, W. V. Clifford, M. Hiland and E. J.
Buchanan. The capital stock is $25,000 paid in cash, with 10 percent surplus
funds, making $27,500.
[Rochester Seneinel, Saturday, April 14, 1906]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The Kewanna Exchange Bank will be succeeded by the First National Bank, of
Kewanna, beginning next Monday morning.
Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 18, 1906]
KEWANNA FORUM [Kewanna, Indiana]
LAUNCH FORUM IN KEWANNA TONIGHT
The executive committee and council of the Fulton County Forum will motor to
Kewanna Wednesday evening where they will assist in the organization of a Forum.
Rev. A. S. L. Warriner will speak on "The Need of Information" and
Atty George Holman, candidate for delegate to the constitutional convention,
will speak on "The Difference Between Statutory and Constitutional
Laws."
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 18, 1917]
KEWANNA GARAGE [Kewanna, Indiana]
Robert Roscoe Hackney and wife Lelia Mae Leasure Hackney, returned from
employment at Plymouth with Winona Telephone Company, and bought half interest
in the Kewanna Garage with Lelia's father, Lewis Leasure. This partnership
continued until Lewis Leasure died in 1918 and Bob assumed full ownership. He
remained in the garage business until his death on Jan. 20, 1955.
[Josiah Tomlinson Family, Mildred Tomlinson McColley, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
KEWANNA GOLDEN CHAIN CREAMERY [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Kewanna Creamery
See Producers Creamery
__________
KEWANNA
J. W. Hoff, a patron of the Kewanna Golden Chain creamery, for sixteen weeks,
ending June 25, sold milk from six cows of them giving milk since October, 1903
the other four since February and March, 1904, 11,715 lbs of milk. - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 30, 1904]
KEWANNA HANDLE FACTORY [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The handle factory building is at last completed and puts up a very creditable
appearance. Considerable of the machinery is already in place but a lot more is
still to arrive and until it does so there'll be nothing doing. They have an
immense amount of timber on the ground ready for business.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 21, 1907]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The last of the machinery for the handle factory has finally arrived and as soon
as the full equipment of belting shows up, business will boom down there. They
are working five men as it is.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 23, 1907]
HANDLE FACTORY TO START
The news that one of Kewanna's idle industries, the Handle factory, had changed
hands came from that place this afternoon, the factory having been sold by A. D.
Toner to Messrs. Henry G. Howell and Hugh Cook, both of Kewanna.
The factory has been idle for several months and it was feared would never open
up again. However, the sale of today, if as reported, insures the resumption of
that business in a short time. The new owners are hustlers, and it is predicted
they will soon have a well paying business.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 8, 1911]
KEWANNA
Mrs. Angeline HIZER, one of the best known and most highly respected women in
this vicinity, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. E. L. LEITER, last Friday,
from a complication of diseases, aged 63 years, 8 months and 8 days. The funeral
was conducted from the Baptist church, Sunday forenoon, by the pastor, Rev.
TACOMA, and interment was made in the Odd Fellows cemetery. She leaves three
children, Marion CARTER, Mrs. E. L. LEITER and Mrs. John HICKLE.
Mrs. John HICKLE left Thursday for her home in Canada, after being here to
attend the funeral of her mother, Mrs. Angeline HIZER.
Margaret [BLOSSER], the two year old daughter of Mr. & Mrs. E. J. BLOSSER,
who died of lagrippe on Jan. 28th, was buried Friday in the Odd Fellows
cemetery, following funeral services conducted from the Baptist church, by Rev.
TACOMA.
Chas. COOK, son of Mr. & Mrs. O. E. COOK, of Kewanna, has sold his interest
in the URBIN & COOK clothing, dry goods, shoe and grocery store, at Mathews,
to Harry PATTERSON, a son-in-law of J. D. URBIN. Charley went with J. D. Urbin
to Mathews and established the business on May 23, 1900, and they have conducted
a most prospeous business there during all these years. However, the business of
the KEWANNA HANDLE FACTORY has assumed such large prosperous proportions that
Mr. Cook has bought a half interest in the same of his brother, Hugh [COOK], and
will move his family here in the spring and take an active interest in the
affairs of that concern.
Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 7, 1913]
FACTORY SOLD
Fred H. H. Brown of Kokomo has closed a deal with Chas. Gifford of Russiaville
which makes him the owner of the Kewanna Handle factory. He will open up for
business in ten days and give a number of men employment. The factory has stood
idle for several months.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 15, 1915]
Kewanna now has no handle factory. The late owner, Fred Brown of Kokomo,
failed to get sufficient financial backing to operate, so he dismantled the
plant and shipped the machinery.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 3, 1916]
KEWANNA HARVEST FESTIVAL [Kewanna, Indiana]
Kewanna celebrated with the Harvest Festival annually for several years.
KEWANNA HERALD [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA HERALD SOLD
The Kewanna Herald has again changed hands, Mr. C. M. Kenyon, of Peoria, Ill.,
being the new proprietor. The Smiths who bought out Mr. Colby did not succeed in
making the Herald so newsy as it had previously been and they retire after
having run the Herald in a modest way for several months. The new proprietor is
said to be a practical newspaper man and the SENTINEL hopes that he will give
Kewanna the wide awake paper which the town deserves.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 6, 1897]
PERSONAL
It is rumored that Frank P. Gould, who sold the Kewanna Herald a year ago, will
again take charge of it and put some oldtime ginger into the paper.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 24, 1904]
KEWANNA
From the Herald:
The Herald was sold on the 20th inst to Mr. O. M. Hand, who later transferred
his interest to Mr. Frank P. Gould, lwho takes charge of the Herald today. All
the old patrons of the Herald are acquainted with Mr. Gould and he needs no
further introduction.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 1, 1904]
FULTON NEWS
From the Leader.
H. M. Brooke, formerly proprietor of the Kewanna Herald has purchased the Banner
Times a local paper at Casey, Ill., a small town of 800 near Terre Haute, and
formerly edited by B. G. Whitehead who published the Macy Monitor in 1892.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, December 6, 1904]
KEWANNA HERALD SOLD
A deal was closed Monday by which the Kewanna Herald becomes the property of the
Van Trump Brothers, of the SENTINEL, and J. Carl Jessen, now of Denver, Colo.
For the past twelve years the Herald has been published by Frank P. Gould, and
during his management the paper has grown from a rather "weak sister"
into one of the best country newspaper properties in the state. The plant is
well equipped cylinder and job presses and gasoline power, and has a prosperous
business. Mr. Jessen will return at once from Denver and assume the management
of the paper. Mr. Gould will retain control of the business until June first,
and will then take up his residence in the state of Wyoming where he becomes
business manager of several newspaper properties owned by one concern. Mr. Gould
has made many friends during his business career in Fulton county and many
friends wish him abundant success in his new vocation.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 18, 1909]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Kewanna Herald comes out this week for the first time in its history as an
all home print newspaper. The Herald has always been one of the best country
papers published in Indiana, and under the management of Carl Jessen it is
growing better with every issue.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 2, 1909]
EDITOR J. C. JESSEN RETIRES
A deal was closed today by which J. Carl Jessen disposes of his interest in the
Kewanna Herald, the Van Trump Company, of this city, being the purchasers. Mr.
Jessen has been in charge of the Kewanna Herald for the past three years and
during that time has greatly improved the paper from both the news and business
standpoints. His work attracted the attention of the Logansport Reporter
management and he has accepted a position as business manager of that paper and
will at once take up his residence in Logansport.
Fred A. Taylor will succeed Mr. Jessen as manager and editor of the Herald, and
being a newspaper man of wide experience, will doubtless keep the paper at the
high standard of excellence established by his predecessor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 20, 1912]
KEWANNA HERALD IS REVIVED
The first issue of the new Kewanna Herald has reached this office, having been
printed Friday. As introduction, Frank P. Gould, the publisher, has printed on
the first page the interesting and varied history of the paper. The Herald was
established thirty years ago and has changed hands three or four times.
Mr. Gould has been in the printing business twenty-two years, worked in six
different states and feels himself properly equipped for handling the Herald.
His new paper is a six column, eight page sheet, full of advertising and news.
It's a real credit to Kewanna enterprise with subscribers numbering about 800.
[Rochester Sentinal, Saturday, February 22, 1913]
BACK AGAIN
Frank Gould who sold the Kewanna Herald some months ago to J. E. Lyons, then
moved his family to Chicago where he had a position in the advertising
department of the Examiner, has returned to Kewanna.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 29, 1914]
EDITOR GOULD AGAIN
A deal was consumated Wednesday whereby Frank Gould, oftimes proprietor of the
Kewanna Herald, again became publisher of that newspaper. Gould has recently
sold out his plant at Greenwood, Ind., and returned to his home town. Reports at
once spread abroad that Gould was to take the paper and were promptly denied by
Editor Lyon. However, the deal was made Wednesday and Gould will again wield the
Union township pen. It is not known what Lyon will do.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 4, 1915]
GOULD SELLS PAPER TO YOUNG GRADUATE
Frank Gould, publisher of the Kewanna Herald intermittently for 26 years, has
sold the publication to Waldo W. Batton, of Pennith, Indiana, according to word
received from Kewanna Thursday. The sale was closed Wednesday and Batton, a
graduate of the Wisconsin University school of journalism, takes possession next
Saturday. Gould will leave within the next week or two for South Bend where he
plans to establish an adversising agency.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 28, 1923]
KEWANNA HERALD CHANGES
The deal for the sale of the Kewanna Herald plant and business as announced last
week failed in the respect that Waldo W. Batten, of Pentville sidetracked his
contract and forfeited his cash guarantee at the last hour. A deal was at once
concluded with Mr. W. S. Thompaon, of Elyria, Ohio, who arrived with his wife
Monday night and took immediate possession. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson are both
experienced newspaper people and commercial printers, Mr. Thompson having had
forty years experience.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, July 9, 1923]
THEY ALL COME BACK
The deal for the sale of the Kewanna Herald to Mr. W. S. Thompson, of Elyria,
Ohio, was called off Friday, as was a similar deal a week earlier to Mr. W. W.
Batten, of Pennville, Ind., although money had changed hands on both deals.
Owing to unexpected and unavoidable circumstances in relation to the securities
and legal transfer of the property the transaction was not effected and
accordingly the Herald will continue under the same ownership and management. No
one was hurt in the shake-up more than myself and my shoulders are plenty broad
enough to stand it. Perhaps the most gratifying thing in connection with the
matter is the fact that hundreds of my old friends, whom I have transacted
business with for twenty-five years have congratulated me on the failure of the
transaction to go through and have said they were sincerely glad that the Herald
was not going to change hands. Maybe it was all for the best. Who knows? Anyway
I am here and busy as ever. They all come back! -- F. P. Gould.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 14, 1923]
FRANK GOULD AGAIN SELLS KEWANNA HERALD
Frank Gould, editor of the Kewanna Herald, carries an announcement in the
current week's issue of his paper to the effect that he has sold out and will go
into the advertising business in South Bend. His statement follows:
"I have traded the Herald for a forty acre farm in Liberty township, on the
county line, 5 miles southeast of Fulton, to W. H. Myers, a newspaper man of 32
years experience. Mr. Myers takes possession Dec. 30th., at the close of
business, although he has advertised a public sale of his personal property at
his place for next Tuesday, which means that I will get out next week's issue
for him. My ownership of the Herald terminates Friday. Myself and family are
removing to South Bend, where I will as formerly be connected with the
advertising business. I could write a column here in attempting to express my
appreciation of the fine business the Herald has enjoyed in the past and of the
fine treatment accorded me by the good people of Kewanna and vicinity, but mere
words would fall flat and could only inadqquately convey to you my friends and
patrons, the sincere gratitude I feel. Many, many thanks, "They all come
back." F. P. GOULD."
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 1, 1923]
FRANK GOULD STARTS PAPER AT MISHAWAKA
Frank Gould, former editor of the Kewanna Herald, will again enter the newspaper
game, this time in Mishawaka, according to a story carried in Thursday evening's
edition of the South Bend News-Times, which says:
"Arrangements are now under way for the establishment in Mishawaka of a
daily newspaper to be known as the Mishawaka Daily Enterprise. It is to be
financed wholly by Stanley C. Stone, of Hudson, Mich., Post-Gazette, who is a
newspaper man of life-time experience. He has had such a move in mind for
several months and spent a couple of days in the city making a careful survey of
the situation. Mr. Stone has associated with him Atty. Ralph Jernegan, and
temporary offices have been opened in the Jernagen building. The preliminary
work of organization has been turned over to F. P. Gould, formerly with the
South Bend Times and former advertising manager of the South Bend Tribune. The
organization work is being pushed as rapidly as possible and it is planned to
begin publication within 60 to 90 days."
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 4, 1924]
NOTIFIES OFFICE HOLDERS PAPER NOW DEMOCRATIC
W. H. Myers, editor of the Kewanna Herald, Saturday served notice in writing on
every office holder in Fulton county that from this time forward his weekly
would be published in the interests of the democratic party. In his letter Mr.
Myers states that he has been an active democrat all of his life and has voted
the democratic ticket for 29 years and that he isn't making a flop for the
purpose of gaining the democratic share of the county advertising. The Kewanna
Herald of this week, however, under its statement of ownership states that the
paper is published as an Independent weekly.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 10, 1925]
LEAVES NEWSPAPER WORK
Frank Gould of South Bend, former editor of the Kewanna Herald, and who has been
in the newspaper business for 35 years, has left his old calling and has
accepted a position as district manager for the Noe-Equl Textile Mills which
manufactures and sells hosiery and lingerie. Mr. Gould has seven counties in his
territory which includes Fulton county.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 13, 1925]
STARTING NEW PAPER
F. P. Gould, former editor of the Kewanna Herald, has moved to Hebron, Indiana,
Lake county, where he will commence the publication of a new paper in the near
future. Mr. Gould is a first class newspaper man and his many friends in Kewanna
and vicinity hope that he may be very successful in the new venture.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 5, 1929]
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Frank Gould, former editor of the Kewanna Herald, has been named the advertising
manager of the Mishawaka department of the South Bend News-Times.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 25, 1932]
EDWARD H. SNAMAN BECOMES OWNER KEWANNA HERALD
W. Henry Myers, publisher and editor of The Kewanna Herald for the past 20
years, has sold The Herald to Edward H. Snaman, attorney-at-law, of Rochester.
The transaction was consummated July 1 and Mr. Snaman has taken over his new
duties as publisher and editor although Mr. Myers is to remain with Mr. Snaman
for the next 30 days. There will be no change in the policy of the paper and
service will go on as usual without interruption.
Mr. Snaman has for the past two years been in the service of the State of
Indiana, Department of Conservation, in Fulton county; prior thereto practiced
law in Fort Wayne and Allen county for 14 years. He will continue his practice
of law in addition to operating The Herald at East 8th street, Rochester, and at
Kewanna.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 3, 1944]
HENRY MYERS PURCHASES PLYMOUTH PRINT SHOP
Kewanna, Ind. - Over 50 some years in the printing business and still going
strong. For over 20 years, Mr. Myers edited and published the Kewanna Herald and
it was thought by many that when he sold out he would at least take things easy
for a while, but, no; just keeps right on going.
Mr. Myers is now the proprietor of the Quality Print Shop in Plymouth, and his
daughter, Mrs. Mary Alice STOKES has gone with her father to assist him in
taking over. The transaction was closed last Saturday and Mr. Myers and his
daughter took over Monday morning.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 21, 1944]
KEWANNA HERALD STOPS PUBLICATION TEMPORARILY
Ed Snaman, publisher of The Kewanna Herald, announces that publication of this
county weekly newspaper will be suspended after today's edition.
The publisher stated this step was made necessary through his inability to
secure experienced help. In event the scarciy of newspaper employes improves,
publication will be resumed immediately.
Mr. Snaman has made arrangements whereby The Herald's subscribers may, if they
desire, secure either The Fulton Leader or The Rochester News-Sentinel for the
equivalent of their unexpired subscriptions. The News-Sentinel is making
arrangements to carry an exceptionally heavy run of Kewanna and Union township
news during the suspension of the Kewanna weekly.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, November 9, 1944]
KEWANNA LIGHT GUARDS [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA LUMBER CO [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Hudkins General Store.
KEWANNA MARBLE WORKS [Kewanna, Indiana]
Owned by A. E. Hudkins, who started it in 1883.
At one time he had branches at Peru and Knox.
__________
WILL BIDDINGER IN BUSINESS
Kewanna Herald.
A deal has been made by which the firm of Hudkins & Biddinger, composed of
John Hudkins, Jr., of Kewanna, and Will Biddinger, of Rochester, has purchased
the Kewanna Marble Works of L. J. Hudkins and took possession at once.
In the future Mr. Biddinger will look after the greater part of the outside work
and Mr. Hudkins will look after the work pertaining to the works. Both are young
men with plenty of energy and get there and there is no doubt but what the new
firm will be successful.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 5, 1909]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Wm. Biddinger resigned his position at Beyer Bros. poultry yards Saturday
evening after a service of ten years. He will at once start out on the road in
the interest of the Biddinger & Hudson monument firm of Kewanna.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 7, 1910]
__________
After he disposed of all businesses except the home plant, he continued to
operate it with the help of his son and at times with a nephew, Hugh M. Sparks.
Later he sold this to a brother-in-law, Judson Hudkins. Eventually he had to
operate it himself as A. E. Hudkins & Son. After his death the business was
sold by his son.
[Bennett Hudkins Family, Byron E. Hudkins, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
See Hudkins General Store; See Hudkins & Hiland Lumber Yard & Planing
Mill.
KEWANNA MEAT MARKET [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA MEAT MARKET
The undersigned has established a first-class meat market at Kewanna, where the
citizens of that place and vicinity will always find a full supply of every
variety of fresh meats and at the very lowest prices. Everything is kept clean
and those who favor me with their patronage may rely upon fair dealing and
courteous treatment. M. S. ADAMS.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 1, 1884]
KEWANNA NEWSPAPERS [Kewanna, Indiana]
The first newspaper in Kewanna was started in 1870 by J. C. Phillips and Eli
Leiter. The first edition of the Kewanna Times, as it was called, appeared on
Apr. 7, 1870. The paper was issued every two weeks and its size was 10 x 15 four
column folio. The Times continued to be published by the same men until Dec. 14,
1871, when it was sold to W. T. Cutshall of Argos, who discontinued the
publication and moved the plant to North Manchester, filling the unexpired
subscriptions with the Weekly Globe in which appeared each week a letter of
local items from Kewanna written by Eli Leiter for the benefit of the Kewanna
subscribers.
The Pilot was the next attempt to establish a newspaper in Kewanna and was
published by J. M. McAfee and J. W. Carter. The first edition of the paper was
issued in Feb. 1872. The management shortly afterward passed into the hands of
T. W. Fields and a Mr.Davis.
During the succeeding years, many attempts were made to establish a strong and
lasting newspaper, but all these efforts were of short duration. On Aug. 20,
1883, however, the Kewanna Herald was established by W. D. Pratt, of Logansport,
who printed the paper in that town for a short time. The plant was taken to
Kewanna, and Sam. D. Porter assumed the management only to dispose of it to
George Metzger on Feb. 9, 1884. Under the direction of George Metzger the paper
became firmly established in the community but was sold on May 1, 1886, to
George W. Tipton. He in turn sold out to Charles E. Newton on May 26, 1888, and
the affairs of the paper remained under his control for two years when he took
his brother into partnership. On Jan. 28, 1893, the plant was sold to J. C.
Colby of Union Grove, Wis. The paper remained under his control for a short time
and was sold to John P. Smith, who in turn surrendered his interests to C. M.
Kenyon. Then in 1898 F. P. Gould became the owner. Since then the paper has been
owned by the following men: Howard M. Brooke, Frank P. Gould, Harold Van Trump
(with Carl Jessen as editor), Frank P. Gould, A. H. Lyons. The paper was
purchased for the fourth time by Frank P. Gould in 1915.
In the early 1920's Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Myers purchased the Herald and operated
it for about 20 years. In July of 1944 it was sold to Edward Snaman, a Rochester
attorney, who discontinued operation in November of that year.
(Editor's note: According to records in the Rochester Sentinel office, Snaman
was a representative of the Sentinel who bought both the Kewanna Herald and the
Fulton Leader. He sold the Fulton Leader Feb. 1, 1945, to Claude Billings of the
Akron News. Thus ended the publication of both the Kewanna Herald and the Fulton
Leader, rights to publish the Herald being held by the Sentinel and rights to
publish the Fulton Leader being held by the Akron News. Bob Cribb was probably
the last editor of the Fulton Leader.)
Two years later in 1946, the merchants of Kewanna encouraged and aided Mr. and
Mrs. Charles Pritchard in establishing The Observer which first appeared in Nov.
1946.
The following is taken from the Apr. 6, 1967 issue of The Observer, Kewanna,
Indiana: "In the issue of Feb. 8, 1949, Editor Pritchard announced that he
had sold The Observer to Bill Lyon of Marion, Ind. Bill and Helen Lyon had come
to Indiana two years before from California. The issue of Jan. 5, 1950, showed
Helen Lyon, editor, and Bill Lyon, publisher, a Republican Newspaper. Lyon
continued the Observer as a community publication with the line in the banner -
'Covering Kewanna, Grass Creek, Fulton.'
On Dec. 15, 1960, Don. R. Smith of Three Oaks, Mich., became editor, continuing
until July 1, 1961, when Bernard C. Martin of Cartersville, Ill., purchased the
paper. On Jan. 1, 1967, Joe and Karen Good became the owners of The Observer.
The present editors have grown up with the newspaper. Joe Good has supervised
operations of the shop since Bill Lyon was editor."
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
KEWANNA OBSERVER [Kewanna, Indiana]
. Don R. Smith became the editor on December 15, 1960. On July 1, 1961 Bernard
C. Martin purchased the paper. On January 1, 1967 Joe and Karen Good purchased
the Observer.
KEWANNA POST OFFICE [Kewanna, Indiana]
Located 900W and250S.
__________
POST OFFICE TO MOVE
The Post Office in Kewanna will be moved from the present location to two doors
west under an order received by Postmaster L. M. Shoemaker from the
Postmaster-General at Washington, D.C. The change will be made sometime within
the next two weeks or as soon as the lockboxes are received from Washington.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, June 8, 1940]
KEWANNA POSTMASTERS [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Shoemaker, L. M.
__________
Wm. M. Tygert, Feb 18, 1847. John N. Ingrim, July 19, 1849.
James Ritchy, Mar 2, 1852. Quincy A. [- - - - -], July 21, 1852.
William T. Clelland [Cleland], Dec 12, 1856. John Shelton, Mar 23, 1860.
William T. Clelland [Cleland], Aug 23 1861. Hickman Phillips, July 25, 1863.
Enoch Reynolds, Aug 26, 1863.
Clement H. Cannon, March 30, 1864.
Peter S. Troutman, July 20, 1865.
John Casad, Feb 5, 1866. David W. Shaffer, Apr 2, 1866.Israel [--------], May
21, 1867.
Jesse W. Carter Dec 1, 1868, Rufus Blair, Apr 16, 1875.
Jesse W. Carter, N.B. Ap 20, 1882. May 10, 1875.
John Q. Howell, Feb. [??], 18[??], - - - - -, Nov 12, 1885.
May 10, 1875. John G. Howell, N.B. John Q. Howell, April 20, 1885. Nov 12, 1885.
Chas. E. Newton, May 1, 1889. Oliver C. Cook N.B. Dec 1, 1894. Apr 14, 1893.
Peter S. Troutman, Apr 7, 1897. John P. Russell (P&S) Jan 9, 1905. Reappd
(P&S) Apr ;26, 1909. Charles M. Snepp (P&S) May 29, 1913 Reapptd
(P&S).
Charles J. Sparks (P&S) Jan 24, 1922. Charles J. Sparks Jan 29, 1926.
Nannie E. Sparks P&S Act July 1, 1926, March 3, 1927. confirmed Feb. 21,
1931 Perm Re-apptd Feb 21, 1931.
Luther M. Shoemaker, Actg P.M. Aug 15, 1935, assumed charge Aug. 20, 1935.
Nominated Aug 16, 1935, Confirmed Aug 21, 1935, Apptd P.M. Aug 27, 1935,
commission signed Sept 23, 1935, assumed charge Oct 1, 1935, Com. Ex. Nominated
Aug 5, 1939, Confirmed Aug 5, 1939, Apptd P.M. Aug 27, 1939, commission signed
Sept 28, 1939, Ret. Aug 31, 1950.
Lewis E. Wood, assumed charge Aug 31 1950.
Joe Crabill nominated Sept 20, 1951, confirmed Sept 26, 1951, Apptd Sept 27,
1951, commission signed Sept 27, 1951, assumed charge Oct 31, 1951, Res. Aug 2,
1957.
Kenneth H. Cook, Act P.M. Sept 6, 1957, assumed charge Aug 2, 1957. Nominated
May 29, 1958, confirmed July 2, 1958, Apptd July 3, 1958, commission signed July
3, 1958, assumed charge Aug. 8, 1958.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
KEWANNA PRODUCE CO. [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The Kewanna Produce Co. closed its doors and retired from business Saturday
night by a mutual agreement between the partners C. M. Snepp and W. T. Cannon.
The reason for this voluntary withdrawal is that the local field is overcrowded
and the business could not be made to yield sufficient profit to justify a
continuance.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 29, 1909]
KEWANNA ROLLER MILLS [Kewanna, Indiana]
Messrs Niccum & Ridenour have completed the refurnishing of the Kewanna
Roller Mills and turned on the power and did the first grinding Thursday
evening.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 13, 1904]
KEWANNA SALOONS [Kewanna, Indiana]
ANOTHER SALOON APPLICANT
Through attorney Edward E. Murphy an application for saloon license was filed
this afternoon with County Auditor George W. DuBois by James H. Epler of Kewanna.
As Union township is entitled to two saloons, Kewanna may be successful in
having two of them. The new applicant is at present landlord of the old Kewanna
house, and if successful in securing licnese will operate in a room south of the
Kewanna Farmers' & Merchants' bank.
It may be that Kewanna will only get one saloon, for the people around Bruce
lake are pretty strong for a thirst parlor at that place on account of the
summer visitors.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, July 10, 1911]
KEWANNA STATE BANK [Kewanna, Indiana]
NEW BANK, KEWANNA, IND. TO OPEN SEPTEMBER 1ST.
Kewanna, Ind., Aug. 11. (U.P) -- Kewanna, without a bank since April 1st, when
the second of the town's two institutions closed, will have a new organization
September 1st, state banking officials announced.
The new institution, known as the KEWANNA STATE BANK, will have a capitalization
of $25,000 and a surplus of $6,250. It will occupy the building in which the
former FIRST STATE BANK was located.
The following men signed the application for a charter: Henry HIRSCH,
Logansport, owner of an elevator at Grass Creek; Charles EVANS, William C.
MILLER, Edward KREAMER and Ralph McCONNELL, Kewanna, and Richard THOMAS, Grass
Creek.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, August 11, 1930]
KEWANNA BANK CHECKS READY FOR DELIVERY
Kline Reed, county clerk, stated today that the final distribution of checks to
depositors in the First State Bank of Kewanna has been started in his office.
The amount to be distributed to the 400 depositors of the bank is $16,514.98.
Persons who are entitled to a share of this sum are asked to come to the county
clerk's office and claim it.
The First State Bank of Kewanna has been in receivership for the past nine
years. A. J. Murray of Grass Creek was the receiver for the banking institution.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, June 15, 1939]
KEWANNA TELEPHONE EXCHANGE [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA
From the Herald:
The telephone company of this place has put in a sub-exchange at Grass Creek,
with about fifteen numbers. The service is connected with the Kewanna exchange
and it aids to the convenience of the service.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 20, 1904]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
The telephone people are reconstructing the Bruce Lake line and putting in an
additional farmers' line out that way. They are also working on an exclusive
toll line to Leiters Ford and Monterey, which is a much needed improvement, and
one that will be greatly appreciated and liberally patronized by the people of
this section.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 1, 1906]
KEWANNA PHONE OWNERS DISPOSE OF THEIR STOCK
Kewanna, Ind., July 20. - The majority stockholders of the Winona Telephone
company have disposed of their interests in the corporation to an Indianapolis
company known as Engineers, Inc., of which James P. Goodrich, former governor,
is head. The sale became effective July 1st.
It is announced that the change of ownership will have no effect upon the
operation or policies of the Winona company, which for the present at least will
continue as heretofore It is explained that the Indianapolis concern will act as
a holding company, maintaining the present Winona organization.
W. B. Daniel, of Knox, sold his stock to the Indianapolis company a few weeks
ago and retired from the telephone business. Messrs. Tomlinson and Daniel of
Plymouth have just closed a similar sale, but are to retain their positions with
the Winona company. No change in the management of the Kewanna plant, which is a
part of the Winona system, is anticipated.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 20, 1927]
__________
Kewanna was an exchange on the Winona Telephone Company, owned by Paul
Tomlinson of Kewanna.
Elizabeth Ann Baker, widow of Moses Hackney, and son, Robert Roscoe Hackney,
moved to Kewanna on Sept. 12, 1904, where Lizzie took a position as operator
with the Winona Telephone Company and very soon became a "beloved Aunt
Lizzie" to the community for 10 years.
[Josiah Tomlinson Family, Mildred Tomlinson McColley, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
KEWANNA WATER DEPARTMENT [Kewanna, Indiana]
MOTOR OPERATES WATER PLANT
The Kewanna water plant was operated under electric power for the first time
during the week. All tests having been completd the system will not be operated
by motor all of the time. The town board recently ordered a 15 horse power motor
and the installation was completed last Tuesday. The pumps were formerly
operated by gas engines, one of which will now be sold.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 11, 1919]
KEWNEY, JOHN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Kewney's Foundry
__________
John Kewney, having purchased the Rochester Foundry of Brown & Frame, is
now prepared to furnish plows . . . Castings of any kind, lmade to order. . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 26, 1859]
John Kewney, Manufacturer of Plows, Kettles and Castings of every kind. Shop
on Main st at the sign of the Plow -- one door north of Heffley's Wagon and
Smith Shop, Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
All persons knowing themselves indebted to the undersigned are requested to
call and settle their accounts immediately, to enable us to continue business. .
. J. Kewney & Co. Roch, Sept 12, 1861.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 31, 1861]
John Kewney would call the attention of the Farmers of this and adjoining
counties to the fact that he is manufacturing and keeps constantly on hand his
celebrated Iron Beam Plow, which is acknowledged to be as good as any in the
world. . . . Shop on Main Street, one door North of Heffley's Wagon Shop.
Rochester.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
Mr. John Kewney has also commenced work on his new shop, having found his old
establishment too small for his rapidly increasing business.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, June 12, 1862]
. . . John Kewney has got his new shop in complete running order . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, August 28, 1862]
John Kewney, Iron Foundry, east side of Main street, near Farrington's Wagon
shop, Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 25, 1863]
John Kewney, Rochester Foundry, manufactures iron beam plows and sells
Celebrated Pittsburg Plows, and has iron castings of all kinds.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 27, 1864]
BIOGRAPHY
John Kewney. This man is remarkable for his line of ancestry, which dates back
in Scottish history several centuries. And even at the present time there is an
old castle, at Denfrees, Scotland, known as the "Kewney Castle." He
was born Novemer 1, 1817, near the village of Sulby, on the Isle of Man, which
is situated in the Irish Sea, south of Scotland. His father, Thomas Kewney, was
a native of the same island, born September 17, 1789. He was a finished scholar,
and for a number of years a Deacon in the Episcopal Church. His business was
farming, and before coming to America was interested in the fisheries of the
British Islands. He left his native country en route for America and landed at
Rochester, N.Y., in 1827, when the subject of this sketch was ten years of age.
From there he moved to Painesville, Ohio, then purchased a farm near Cleveland,
and in 1836 he located in Michigan, where he resided for the remainder of his
life. He deceased May 12, 1868, while visiting his son in this place. Margaret
(Callow) his wife, was a native of the Isle of Man, born in 1787, and deceased
at his home in Michigan in 1855. Her father, Joseph Callow, was a British
soldier and fought on the side of England in the American Revolution. Our
subject is the fifth of a family of thirteen children, of whom ten are now
living. His early education was somewhat limited, owing to the migratory
disposition of his father, and being among the oldest of so large a family he
was compelled to choose a calling early in life. He chose the iron foundry
business and assisted in the construction and working of the first foundry in
Cleveland, Ohio. He was united in marriage at Battle Creek, Mich., March 11,
1840, to Harriet Wilson, a native of Cayuga County, N.Y., born March 11, 1822,
of English descent, her parents, Thomas and Elizabeth Wilson, being natives of
England, and came to America in 1809. Eight children have been born to these
parents, of whom five are now living--Ozias M.; John F., now engaged in railroad
business at Michigan City, Ind.; Ella M., the wife of Baron Ernst VonEhrnstein,
and living in Rochester; Horace G., a dealer in general merchandise, of the firm
of Pfeiffer & Kewney; and Leon, at present engaged in the drug business at
Kalamazoo, Mich. Mr. Kewney labored for a number of years at his trade, and when
he became a citizen of this place, in 1858, he immediatel began the construction
and working of the Rochester Foundry. This he operated for a number of years,
the manufacturing of the "Kewney Plows," being a specialty. He gained
a wide reputation as a mechanic, and now lives a retired life, well known
throughout the county.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 23]
KEWNEY, RICHARD [Rochester, Indiana]
. . . we would call attention of our farmers to the advertisement of Mr. Richard
Kewney. He manufactures plows right here at home, where he can be found if his
work is not well done. Farmers give him a call.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 19, 1859]
KEWNEY, LEON [Rochester, Indiana]
ROCHESTER MAN PREYS ON DEAD
The news of the arrest of Leon Kewney, formerly of Rochester and a brother of
Mrs. E. von Ehrenstein, city, and Horace and Si Kewney, formerly residents of
this city but now of Lapaz, in Chicago on the charge of operating a swindle of
large proportions, reached this city this morning. Concerning the case the
Chicago Tribune of this morning says:
"Leon Kewney, said to be a member of a well-to-do Indiana family, and
related to the nobility of Germany, is under arrest on the charge of operating a
unique confidence game. The police say that he confessed and implicated two
other men who are being sought.
"Sorrowing relatives of the dead were the particular prey of the gang, but
sometimes newly wedded persons were defrauded.
"They did business under the firm name of the Itoline Company, 1225 West
Madison street, and all transactions were based on death and marriage notices
appearing in out of town newspapers. The Adams, the United States and American
Express Companies and other transportation concerns were made the tools of the
swindlers, and private detectives, the federal authorities and the Chicago
police have for months been trying to catch the confidence men. Detective James
J. Duffy and John D. Shea of Capt. Woods' office made the arrest.
"The gang laid in a supply of cheap jewelry and spectacles. These articles,
in neatly addressed packages, were sent to the dead of other cities, always
'collect.'
"The deliveries were so timed as to reach the home when the bereavement was
at its highest tension, often the day of the funeral, and the first thought of
the survivors was that there was some sentimental value between the article and
the decedent. The bill, ranging from $5 to $20, was gladly paid without the
contents being examined.
"Drivers for the express comany became innocent parties to the swindle. In
the case of newly married persons the impression was that it was a present from
somebody who forgot to pay for the goods and the matter could be remedied when
it was brought to the attention of the sender.
"The scheme was so handled that the federal authorities would have found it
difficult to prosecute successfully, even if they had caught the swindlers, as
the mails were not generally used. A special federal agent was sent here from
Washington and turned what information he had over to Capt. Woods.
"Detectives Duffy and Shea then traced the clews to Kewney, and
subsequently came into possession of a letter in which the executors of James A.
McClurg, who died recently at 906 Grant avenue, Denver, Col., sent the Itoline
Company a check for $12 in payment of spectacles.
"Kewney says he got the name of that decedent from a Denver newspaper. He
insists that he never rceived the check and that if it was sent, as claimed by
the executors, some other member of the gang forged his name and appropriated
the proceeds.
"The business had evidently been carried on extensively, as all the big
transportation corporations hold packages returned from Omaha, Denver, St.
Louis, and a number of other cities. These were rejected by relatives.
"Kewney is a well appearing man of 50 and says he was employed as solicitor
for Scribner's magazine for fifteen years. His father was a plow manufacturer at
Rochester, Ind., where the prisoner was born and raised. His first employment
was that of a drug clerk for J. B. Pelens. The prisoner left home, he asserts,
because his sister married Count von Ehrenstein, whom he describes as a genuine
count of Hamburg, Germany, and went to Kalamazoo, Mich., where he operated two
drug stores.
"He failed in business and then returned to look after his father's
interests, and later drifted to San Francisco and worked at the drug business.
"In the latter city, he says he began drinking. Later he went to Butte,
Mont., and secured employment with Scribner's. Two years ago he was transferred
to Chicago, and six months ago, while soliciting subscriptions, he met his
present comrades and was induced to 'make money easy' on the side."
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 23, 1910]
KEWNEY'S FOUNDRY [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester, Indiana [Historical Review]
__________
This new firm has commenced business, one door south of Kewney's Foundry, and
assure the public that they will keep chairs constantly on hand, and will
manufacture all kinds of furniture on the shortest notice.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 22, 1862]
Our enterprising townsman, John Kewney, raised his new foundry last week.
When completed it will afford him ample facilities for supplying the extensive
and increasing demand for his manufactures.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 3, 1862]
J. W. Ross, Chair Emporium, over Farrington's Wagon Shop, one door south of
Kewney's Foundry. He manufactures and sells chairs of every variety.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 8, 1863]
We rushed in and inquired of the first person we met, "Who runs this
foundry?" He answered, "I do." "And what is your name?"
"John Kewney." We dotted that down in a jiffy and continued our
questioning, with the following result. The principal manufacture is plows, plow
points, mould-boards, landsides, iron beams, and all the paraphernalia of a plow
piled up in every available place. Several different patterns of plows are made,
the principal manufacture being the KEWNEY, the qualities and superiorities of
which we will speak hereafter. Mr. Kewney has long been in the business and
understands well how to put up a plow that will best serve the people.
[Rochester Union-Spy, Thursday, November 20, 1873]
HOME TOWN TALES
By "Pioneer"
The Kewney Foundry, owned and operated by John Kewney, occupied the north
portion of the 300 block on the east side of Main street. The building must have
been erected before the Civil War, for it appeared old and weather-beaten, more
than a half century ago.
At the rear of the main building under a roofed addition with open sides, a
horse marched miles and miles in a circle, turning a great sprocket wheel and
drive shaft, from which the lathes and machinery were powered. If the horse
slowed up, which he often did, a boy was lifted to the horse's back, a trust of
responsibility, every boy in the "north end" was willing to accept
without pay.
At five o'clock, each work day, the blast furnace was opened and into the ladles
poured the white-hot metal to be transferred to the moulds. The street doors
were packed by neighborhood kids to witness the "fire-works" and there
was an occasional fight over a front row position.
Here the Kewney Iron Beam Plow was made and shipped throughout the Central
States, years before the Olivers opened a small shop in South Bend.
When the cashier of the Ashton Bank - Rochester's first bank - left town very
suddenly, between days, with the deposits and destination unknown, the Kewney
Foundry closed its doors and turned the old horse out on pasture.
What could have been? What might have been? A product with an established
reputation, and the world in which to market it. We have often wondered.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, January 28, 1935]
KEYS, WILLIAM D. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II (Local Boy Graduates From Randolph Field)
KID ORCHESTRA [Rochester, Indiana]
The Kid orchestra, under the direction of Prof. Lamont Davidson, will give an
entertainment at Grace M.E. church next Friday night. Admission 10 and 15 cents.
Price low, but program first class and high grade.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 16, 1912]
KIDS STREET [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
Nickname for a street where Fred Stayton lived. Other families: Campbells,
Larges, Davidsons, Champs.
KILBURY AUTO SALES [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Vernon M. Ball is pleased to announce the opening of the new KILBURY AUTO
SALES, DeSoto and Plymouth Sales and Service, in the Brackett Building, [SE]
Corner 5th and Main Streets, Rochester, Indiana on Saturday, May 16, 1936. - - -
- A complete new stock of Hi-grade USED CARS on display.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 15, 1936]
KILER, G. W. [Rochester, Indiana]
Protect your Lawns and Beautify your Homes by getting the latest Improved STEEL
RIBBON FENCE. - - - - For further particulars and prices, address G. W. KILER,
Rochester or Tiosa, Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 25, 1892]
KILLEN, G. H. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Killen & Co., G. H.
See: Patents and Inventions
KILLEN, MARK [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Fairview
KILLEN & CO., G. H. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - BOOTS & SHOES - - - - G. H. KILLEN & CO., In Citizens'
Block.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 20, 1878]
[Adv] The CITY BOOT AND SHOE STORE - - - - You will find us on the south side
of Public Square. CITY BOOT AND SHOE STORE, G. H. KILLEN & CO.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 7, 1878]
[Adv] G. H. KILLEN & CO., Still Ahead in Groceries, The Only Cash Store
in Rochester - - - Country produce taken at highest market prices. CORNER
GROCERY, Citizens' Block, Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 26, 1879]
KILLEN GROCERY, MARK [Rochester, Indiana]
Employee: Charlie White
__________
[Adv] LOOK HERE. DIDN'T I TELL YOU SO? - - - - - M. KILLEN, Citizen's Block,
Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 25, 1891]
KILLEN ICE HOUSE [Rochester, Indiana]
Later owned by Bailey Ice Company.
__________
LOCAL NEWS
Harry Killen completed his ice harvest Saturday. He had thirty men employed four
days, during which time 3000 tons of ice were cut and stored in the three large
houses. The ice is of a very good quality, and ranges from nine to eleven inches
in thickness.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 7, 1901]
NEW ICE PLANT POSSIBLE
It is rumored that an out-of-town firm has taken an option on the ground north
of the West Side Hotel, the former site of the Killen Ice Houses, and may
possibly form a new company here erecting new ice houses and harvest the Lake
Manitou ice crop, retailing it to local residents at a reduced price. As yet the
matter is largely a conjecture.
[Rochester, Sentinel, Friday, August 5, 1921]
KILLEN MILLINERY STORE, MRS. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - - Millinery - - - - MRS. KILLEN'S NEW MILLINERY STORE, Citizen's
Block.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 18, 1891]
KILMER, CHARLES A. [Rochester, Indiana]
Charles Kilmer who has been with Michael's Wholesale Grocery house for several
years, has opened a new grocery in Citizens Block, and has the brightest and
cleanest store in the city. And he proposes to keep it that way every day in the
year. Go and see the new store.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 3, 1896]
BIOGRAPHY
Charles A. Kilmer. - This enterprising citizen and business man is a native of
Fulton county, born Nov. 28, 1869, in a log cabin that for years stood upon the
bank of the Tippecanoe river. The parents, L. G. and Eliza J. (Spencer) Kilmer,
were natives of Indiana. After the death of the mother in 1871 Mr. Kilmer, until
fourteen years of age, was raised by his maternal grandparents. At this age he
began making his own way in the world. He obtained some education at the public
schools, but the major portion of his knowledge has been acquired in the more
severe, yet more effective school of practical experience. Beginning his
business career he entered the employ of the well known house of Feder &
Silberberg, of this city, where he remained for four years, and then for one
year was in the lumber business and later was for some four years in the
wholesale grocery business in the employ of J. P. Michael & Co., of
Rochester. Dec. 28, 1895, he began the retail grocery business on the south side
of the public square in the city. Here he is carrying about $3,000 worth of
choice, fresh goods in his line. He has one of the best arranged stores for his
business in Rochester. Success is bound to be the result of this business
venture when it is fully understood that this is absolutely the only cash retail
grocery house in this city. Mr. Kilmer was united in marriage May 30, 1894, to
Miss Indiana Virginia Baker, daughter of the wealthy lumber man, Ananias Baker.
To Mr. and Mrs. Kilmer one child has been born, Helen Marie, who died May 23,
1895. In politics Mr. Kilmer is a democrat. He is a member of the I.O.O.F. He
and Mrs. Kilmer are leading members of the Christian church. For three years he
has been superintendent of the Christian Sunday school and is now president of
the Christian Endeavor society and clerk of the church. He is a man of practical
business attainment, and he and wife are numbered among the best eople of the
city.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 96-97]
[Adv] ANOTHER GROCERY CHANGE! This time the Kilmer Grocery has been moved to
the old Bennett stand in the Sentinel block - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, October 24, 1899]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Ex-Auditor Kline W. Shore has purchased the Chas. Kilmer grocery and will take
possession at once. The work of checking the invoice was done today by Trustee
A. Baker and Mr. Shore. The store will be cleaned up and when opened in a couple
of days will present a very neat appearance. Mr. Shore is well known in the
city's commercial field and will undoubtedly be welcomed by a large patronage.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 24, 1908]
[Adv] GREAT BANKRUPT SALE. Having purchased what is known as the Chas. A.
Kilmer or Mammoth Grocery, at two-thirds its value from the assignee, in the
Sentinel block, on Saturday 27, June 1908 we will open the doors of this store
for business with a full line of Staple and Fancy Groceries. Also a fine line of
fresh Vegetables and Fruits with prices that should interest the closest buyers.
Yours for trade, K. W. SHORE, Proprietor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 26, 1908]
KILMER, DONALD D. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Donald D. Kilmer)
KILMER, INDIA (BAKER) [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Hotels - Arlington
KILMER, W. O., AND SONS [Rochester, Indiana]
FILLING STATION TO BE BUILT AT 9TH, FRANKLIN
W. O. Kilmer and Sons, Fulton county agents for Indian Oil Co. products, have
leased for a number of years the southeast corner of the interestion of Franklin
avenue and Ninth street of John Swartwood and will erect a modern filling
station.
Just as soon as the weather will permit, the old building on this corner, which
has housed grocery stores for a number of years, will be razed, and work on the
new service station, which will be one of the finest in this section of the
state, will be started. Indian Co. products will be handled exclusively.
This will be the fourth filling station to be erected in Rochester this summer.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, April 9, 1925]
ED WILBURN TO OPEN BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENT
Ed Wilburn, Tuesday announced the establishment of a broom factory and up to
date auto laundry at the rear of the Kilmer and Son filling station at the
corner of Franklin and Ninths.
Mr. Wilburn has had 25 years experience as a broom maker and for many years was
the head of the broom making department of the Progress Wholesale House. Brooms
made by him have taken many prizes in shows. Mr. Wilburn's new venture will make
the second auto laundry in the city and the only broom making establishment.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, August 25, 1925]
KIME LIVERY [Rochester, Indiana]
117 E. 5th.
KIMMEL, AGNES [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Wile Department Store
KIMMEL & MYERS [Rochester, Indiana]
See Manitau Vaudeville
KINDER, GEORGE F. [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
George F. Kinder a farmer of Fulton county and the son of a pioneer was born in
Miami county near Macy, December 5, 1867. His parents were John and Caroline
(Wolford) Kinder, of whom the later came from Ohio with her parents when a girl
and settled in Miami county. His wife's parents were George and Katherine
(Winters) Wolford, Pennsylvania Dutch people both of whom died in Fulton county.
John Kinder's father was David of English descent who migrated through Kentucky
to Indiana and cleared a piece of land in Allen township, Miami county, and died
there at a ripe old age. John Kinder after farming for many years in Henry
township is now retired at the age of seventy-nine. His first wife, the mother
of our subject, died in 1893. He took a second wife, Mrs. Serena (Poffenberger)
Pottenger. His family, however, were by his first wife. They were: an infant who
died, George F., William, Monroe, and Effie. Georger F. was educated in the
local schools and in Valparaiso University and became a teacher. He taught eight
years in the vicinity where he lived and then went to Dakota where he taught
three years. But he is first and last a farmer, cultivating his land and being
active and useful in the affairs of the community. He built himself an excellent
home south-east of Akron and is township trustee, being elected in the fall of
1922. In 1903 he married Mrs. Nettie (Burkett) Runkle, of Miami county near
Macy, a school teacher and daughter of Asa Burkett. They have no children.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 223, Dayton Historical Publishing
Co., 1923]
KINDERGARTEN [Rochester, Indiana]
Located NW corner 7th and Jefferson [626 Jefferson], former K.K.K. Lodge bldg.
KINDIG, CHARLES [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Charles Kindig, son of Daniel and Susan Kindig, natives of Pennsylvania, was
born in York County, Penn., September 7, 1815. He removed with his parents in
childhood to Wayne County, Ohio. His opportunities at school were of necessity
very limited, the schoolhouses of those days being log cabins of the rudest
description and far apart; even the schools themselves were as rude as the
houses in which they were taught. Charles assisted his father until his
twenty-first year. In the spring of 1836, Mr. K. was united in marriage to Miss
Elenor Allen, who was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1813. He followed the
vocation of farmer in his adopted county until 1839, when he immigrated to
Wisconsin, where he remained but two yers. Upon returning from the Northwest, he
located in Fulton County, Ind., and purchased 80 acres of land in Henry
Township. Being possessed of an unlimited amount of energy and determination, he
soon began to reap the reward of his untiring industry. In a short time,
cultivated fields and a fine orchard appeared instead of the wild forest trees.
The cabin was superseded by the commodious farmhouse, and the prattle of little
voices and the patter of little feet only added other incentives for industry.
The marriage of these two was blessed with four children, two of whom are
living, Mary the wife of Charles Richter, and Orville, who is conducting the
home farm. Mr. K. is regarded as a man of strict integrity.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 39]
KINDIG, EVA SEVERNS [Rochester, Indiana]
EVA KINDIG'S LIFE STORY SOLVED ANOTHER WOMAN'S MYSTERY
One of the reasons the newspaper business has kept me enthralled for 60 years is
the way in which it enables a community of readers to connect with one another.
That was proved once again earlier this year. In January I wrote here about Eva
Kindig. a 93year-old Rochester woman of considerable distinction.
She was born on the south side of the Courthouse Square, above the restaurant
operated by her father, Frank Severns.
When Pauline Meier of rural Rochester read about the redoubtable Eva's
birthplace, it solved her puzzlement concerning an old business card long in her
possession. She believes she found it about 10 years ago while leafing through
an old book she bought at an auction sale.
The billfold-sized card reads'. "Go to Frank's Lunch Room for Warm Meals
and 15c Lunches. The Best Pies, Cakes and Fruit in Town. South Side of
Courthouse. F. M. Severns.
Pauline surmised that the lunch room likely was on Rochester's square, but could
not be certain. Those named Severns whom she contacted were not able to lift the
mystery.
Then the story concerning Eva's history produced the answer. Miss Meier wrote to
me concerning the matter and offered the business card to Eva should she want
it. I forwarded the correspondence, Eva got in touch with Pauline and today the
card is in the possession of the cafe owner's daughter. Eva, by the way. has no
memories of the cafe or of its operation because the family moved with her to a
farm when she was two years old.
All of this, in turn, prompted Eva to rustle through her family pictures to find
a photo of nearly a century old that shows her Dad's cafe. It is reproduced
today on Page 5. The picture was taken 1904, two years before Eva's birth.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, May 16, 2000]
KINDIG, FLOYD [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Wile Department Store
KINDIG, JAMES [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From James Kindig)
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Second Letter From James Kindig)
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Third Letter From James Kindig)
KINDIG & SONS, C. V. [Rochester, Indiana]
See Round Barns.
__________
Charles V. Kindig, born in 1863, and his brothers, Milton Kindig, John Kindig,
Byrd Kindig and Douglas Kindig, were all carpenters and built in Rochester and
Peru.
Charles V. Kindig, and wife, Hattie Frances (Bryant) Kindig, had eight children:
Cleve "Pete", Roy, Oral "Happy" or "Hap", Arnie,
Cleon, Audrey, Lavonne, and Doris.
The boys also became carpenters, working with their father, and the firm was
named C. V. Kindig & Sons. They built schools, homes, barns, several of
which were round barns.
Their largest project was the Lincoln School in Peru.
The most expensive project was the private home of Floyd Bailey in Peru, called
"Whitehall" costing $100,000. It required three summers, the job being
finished in 1952.
After C. V. died in 1940, Cleve and Hap continued the business, and after Cleve
retired in 1952, Hap continued until 1962, when he became 65 years of age.
It was truly a family affair.
[Kindig Builders, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
__________
KINDIG & SON AWARDED AKRON H.S. CONTRACT
The contracts for an addition to the Akron school building were let Thursday
afternoon in Trustee Kinder's office. The general contract was let to Kindig and
Son of Rochester, while the contract for plumbing, heating, ventilating and
wiring went to Karl B. Gast of Akron. Mr. Gast gave his bids as a combined bid
and it was lower than any other combination of bids that could be figured.
Kindig and Son had the lowest bid under the general contract, and it is thought
they will start work before long.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 23, 1926]
C. V. KINDIG IS AWARDED CONTRACT FOR PERU JOB
The Peru City school board in a special session last Saturday afternoon awarded
four contracts totaling $106,525 for the construction of a new school building
to be erected at the southwest corner of Main and Benton Streets. The general
contract went to C. V. Kindig of this city who bid $83,000, the contract for the
wiring was given to a Peru firm and for the plumbing and heating to a South Bend
firm.
Fourteen firms and individuals submitted proposals on the general contract;
seven bids wre presented on the work of wiring; eight bid on the heating and
five on the plumbing.
The architects fees, which were not included will be between $5,000 and $6,000
thus making the total cost of the building approximately $112,000 or about
$7,000 under the estimated cost.
It was stated that work on the proposed structure will begin as soon as the
transcript of the bond proceedings is ready, which will be about a week, in hope
of having the building completed for the fall school term.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, April 24, 1928]
KINDIG BROS. [Rochester, Indiana ????]
NEWS OF THE DAY
John Kindig of the firm of Kindig Bros., architects, is preparing plans for a
new ten thousand dollar township school house at Mexico. The building will be an
elaborate one and will speak well for the firm.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 22, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Kindig Brothers, the architects, have completed the plans and accepted the
contract for the erection of an eleven room frame house for Treasurer John Pyle,
at the corner of Monroe and 11th streets. Work will begin on the celler this
week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, August 13, 1907]
KINDIG RADIO AND ELECTRIC [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Zenith Long Distance Farm Radio. KINDIG Radio and Electric, 110 East
Eighth Street.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 6, 1936]
KING, ALLEN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Cole Brothers
__________
ALLEN KING TO HEAD FORD MOTORIZED SHOW
Detroit, Feb. 12. - Plans for "the biggest truck show ever put on the
road" are being developed here under sponsorship of the Ford Motor Company.
Actual details have not been disclosed, but plans are being worked out by Allen
King, who is well known for his lion taming act, and will have direct charge of
production.
The entire proposition has not yet been given a final ok by the higherup Ford
executives, but is looked upon favorably by those who have seen it to date.
W. B. Naylor is acting as agent for King in the enterprise.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 12, 1937]
KING, GEORGE J. [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
George J. King is the son of George and Catherine King, who were born and raised
in Germany, but coming to this country about 1826, were married in Buffalo about
1828, and moved to Portage County, Ohio, two years later, where they remained
for five yers; thence to Stark County, Ohio; thence to Miami County, Ind.,
seventeen years later, where they lived thirty years, after which they moved to
Akron, where they now reside.
George J. was born in Portage County, Ohio, April 7, 1832, from whence he went
with his parents through their emigrations and came with them to Indiana, where
he married Rachel Bemenderfer Decemer 28, 1856. After a residence of seventeen
years in Wabash County, they settled at their present place of abode, and are
the parents of eight children, of whom four, viz.,Jacob J., William H., Josiah
R. and George Orlando, are still living.
Mrs. Rachel King, who was the daughter of William and Sophia Bemenderfer,
mentioned elsewhere, died November 8, 1877. Mr. King remained a widower one
year, then married Mrs. Lucretia Weaver, the widow of Thomas Weaver and daughter
of David and Hester A. Harsh. She was born in Stark County, Ohio, and has one
child--Luella Weaver, by her first husband. This couple are now the fond parents
of twin daughters--Amanda and Anna, and are both members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.
Mr. King has been sorely afflicted, not only by the loss of his first wife and
four children, but also physically; but by indomitable pluck, energy,
perseverance and good management, he has secured a good farm of 160 acres, three
and a half miles from Akron.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 39]
KING, JACOB J. [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Jacob J. King. One of the representative citizens and responsible men of Fulton
county, is Jacob J. King, of Akron, farmer and financier, who is vice-president
and a director of the State Bank of Akron, and vice-president also of the Mutual
Insurance Company, of Fulton, White, Pulaski and Starke counties, Indiana. He
was born in Wabash county, Indiana, March 15, 1858, son of George, Jr. and
Rachel (Bemenderfer) King. Of their seven children four are living, two in
Fulton county, Jacob J. and William H., the latter of whom married Rosa Miller
and they live on their well improved farm. The father of Jacob J. King was born
in Stark county, Ohio, in 1833, son of George and Catherine (Smith) Koenig, as
is the German orthography of the name King. They came from Germany to the United
States on a sailing vessel, Mr. Koenig working his passage as a deck hand. The
family, accompanied by other German colonists, came from Stark county, Ohio, in
1844, to Miami county, Indiana, in the covered pioneer wagons of the time, and
secured land from the government. George King, Jr., obtained 300 acres situated
about one and a half miles east of Gilead. He possessed business capacity and
soon acquired other farming land, in 1856 moving to Wabash county and purchasing
eighty acres on which he made his home for eleven years, removing then to Fulton
county for a time but later he returned to Wabash county. In 1874 he came back
to Fulton county and resided here until his death in 1889, surviving his wife
for twelve years, her death occurring in November, 1877. She belonged to the
Methodist Episcopal church, but he adhered throughout life to the Lutheran faith
as did his parents. Jacob J. King grew to the age of sixteen years on his
father's farm in Wabash county, in the meanwhile attending the district schools.
He has spent his entire life in Indiana with the exception of two and a half
years when he was engaged in mining at Kokomo, Colorado, which village in the
carbonite region had been so named by an earlier Indianian, Captain Jack, of
Kokomo, Indiana. Mr. King returned to his native state in December, 1881, having
been reasonably successful in his mining venture. When his father died he
inherited one-fifth of two-thirds of the estate and through purchase from the
other heirs, acquired the entire property, the value of which he had greatly
increased through substantial improvements and complete renovation of the farm
structures before he sold the property in 1918. In September, 1919, he bought a
particularly fine farm of 177 acres, situated in Henry township, Fulton county,
but has been a resident of Akron since February, 1919, where he is identified
with business interests. Since January, 1917, he has been vice-president and a
director of the State Bank, and also is vice-president of the Mutual Insurance
Company, a business corporation covering Fulton, White, Pulaski and Starke
counties. Mr. King was married December 24, 1881, to Miss Emma J. Grindle, a
native of Fulton county, and a member of the Evangelical church, whose death
occurred February 8, 1918, leaving four daughters: Grace E., who completed her
high school course at Akron and her musical course in the Rochester Normal
school, is the wife of Dr. A. E. Stinson, of Athens, and they have one son, Dean
K.; Lola E., who was educated in the Akron schools, is the wife of Merl Brown,
of North Manchester, Indiana, a molder by trade, and an overseas veteran of the
World war; Fay R., who was educated at Akron, is the wife of Charles H.
Meredith, of Fulton county; and Ferol A., who is a graduate of the high school
at Akron, is preparing for the profession of trained nurse, at the City
Hospital, Indianapolis. Mr. King's second marriage was to Mrs. Martha (Powell)
Zolman daughter of William and Sarah (Biddle) Powell. Her father was born at
Bellefontaine, Logan county, Ohio, was a farmer in Indiana, and was a veteran
Union soldier of the Civil war. He died in 1910. Her mother, who died January 8,
1918, was a native of Pennsylvania. Mrs. King had public school advantages and
taught one term of school in Miami county. She was reared in the Methodist
Episcopal church. Mr. King is a member of the Evangelical church and for thirty
years has been a member of the board of trustees of the church at Akron, of
which he was one of the organizers and always a liberal supporter. In political
life he is a Democrat.
[Henry A. Ba
KING, JOHN [Newcastle Township]
BIOGRAPHY
John King, ex-sheriff of Fulton county and a familiar figure in democratic
politics, was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, Oct. 16, 1840. He grew up in the
village of Lockville and secured a meager education. He selected mechanics as a
livelihood and when twenty years old began learning the carpenter's trade under
an older brother, Henry King. Soon after completing his term of service he came
to Fulton county and became a resident of Newcastle township. He spent the
succeeding twenty-five years in that township, doing largely the building and
general improving on superstructure done during that period. His best residences
were those of John Kesler, Sol. Wagner, Henry Haimbaugh, George Perschbaugher,
Lawrence McArter, John Haimbaugh, Charles King and others to a grand total of
168 residences. He has built upward of sixty barns, five elevators and the shoe
factory in Rochester. Mr. King became a citizen of Rochester late in the fall of
1892. He came as the sheriff elect and was inducted in to office Nov. 24, of
that year. His majority was over 200. He demonstrated his capacity as a peace
officer, and his efficiency as a public servant, but all this counted for naught
so far as it affected the result at the next election. Democracy seemed to be
doomed in 1894 and whoever happened to be its standard bearer went down with it.
The landslide came along and Mr. King being his party's candidate for
re-election went out of office just two years after he went in. The past two
years Mr. King has had no business beyond supervising work on his farm and doing
an occasional turn with saw and plane. Sept. 12, 1863, Mr. King was married in
Fairfield county, Ohio, to Susan A., daughter of Washington Flood, born in
Virginia; came to Ohio early and engaged in the confectionery business. He died
about the year 1850. Mr. and Mrs. King's children are: Frances, twenty-nine,
wife of George N. Clymer, of Rochester; Milo O., M.D., twenty-seven, graduated
from Rush medical college, Chicago, May 28, 1896; Leander, twenty-four, a
professional bookkeeper, graduated from Grand Rapids commercial college 1893;
Annetta, twenty-one; Stella, eighteen; Albert, fifteen, and Emma, thirteen. Mr.
King's first child, Sarah Jane, died at two years. John King is a son of Michael
King, who married Susan, daughter of a Mr. Slagle, of German birth. Michael King
was born in Berks county, Pa., 1808. He moved to Ohio about 1836. He was a
farmer. His death occurred in this county 1868. His wife died four years later,
aged sixty-three. Their family consisted of: Anna, Mary, wife of David Boyer, of
Franklin county, Ind.; Sarah, wife of Conrad Haimbaugh, of Newcastle township,
Fulton county; Michael, Fairfield county, Ohio; John, George, Newcastle
township, and Susan, now Mrs. Amos Selby, Rochester. John King is a Mason and a
K. of P. His reputation is that oif an honest, square, upright citizen. He is a
useful member of society, useful to his family and useful to the public.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 97-98]
KING, MILO O., DR. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
__________
Dr. Milo King has fully decided to locate in Rochester and he will open up an
office in the apartments now occupied by Dr. E. C. Hughes. Dr. King has returned
to Kankakee, Ill., to terminate his enggements there.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 24, 1899]
BIOGRAPHY
Milo O. King, M.D., was born in Fulton county, Indiana, December 10, 1868, the
son of John and Susan (Flood) King, both of whom were natives of Fairfield
county, Ohio, the former being born on October 16, 1841, and the latter on
September 16, 1839. The parents of the subject of this review were married in
the county of their birth and in 1866 removed to Fulton county, settling on a
farm in Newcastle township where they remained for the rest of their lives. He
was always active in politics and in 1892 was elected sheriff of Fulton county
on the Democratic ticket, serving in this capacity for two years. Although his
wife was a Presbyterian throughout her life, he himself professed the Lutheran
religion until the last three years of his life when he was converted to the
Presbyterian creed. They had eight children, one of whom died in infancy and
four of whom are still living. John King died on April 1, 1904, and his wife in
1903. Milo O. King was born on his father's farm in Newcastle township and
received his elementary education in the graded and high schools of that
township. He then taught in a public school for four years, and at the
conclusion of that time, went to Valparaiso University from which he was
graduated in 1893 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. Wishing to follow the
medical profession, he attended Rush Medical College, of Chicago, and was
graduated from that institution in 1896. For twenty-three years he has been in
active practice in Rochester, Indiana, but upon his graduation from college he
became an interne in the hospital for the insane at Kankakee, Illinois, after
which he was on the medical staff of that institution for three years. To keep
in touch with all things pertaining to his profession, Dr. King holds membership
in the American Medical Association, the State, Thirteenth District, and the
Fulton County Medical Associations. He has always been actively interested in
politics, and in November, 1921, he was elected mayor of Rochester on the
Democratic ticket, he being the fourth man to hold that office. On May 15, 1922,
he married Blanche Distor, of Plymouth, Indiana. In fraternal circles, Dr. King
is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and
the Masons, being a Shriner and a York Rite Mason.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 226-227, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
KING, SAMUEL [Perry Township, Miami County]
BIOGRAPHY
Samuel King, an enterprising farmer and native of Perry Township, was born
August 21, 1848, the next youngest of eight children born to George and
Catharine (Smith) King, the former a native of Germany, born in 1809. He
emigrated to the United States about 1828, halting for a time in Buffalo, New
York, where his marriage occurred; thence moved to Ohio, where he remained until
1846, when he came to Miami County, where he lived until 1875, when he retired
from active farm life and removed to the village of Akron, Fulton County. His
good old wife, the sharer of his joys and sorrows, died December, 1883, at the
advanced age of seventy-seven years. Samuel grew to manhood on the home farm,
receiving a limited education. August 6, 1872, he was united in marriage with
Catharine Grogg, by whom he is the father of these four living children: James
F., Mary C., Charles E. and Martin L. Mr. King is a successful agricuturist, the
owner of 141 acres of improved land. He and wife are members of the Reformed
Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
[History of Miami County, Indiana, 1887, Brant & Fuller. p. 731]
KING'S JESTERS [Rochester, Indiana]
Elliott Bailey played guitar when group was first created.
Composed of Francis Bastow, George Howard and John Ravencroft.
Became known as the "biggest little band" in the Midwest.
See Howard's Melody Syncopators.
__________
Manager Ray Shanks of the K. G., has finally persuaded Ralph Ravencroft, the
well known local comedian, to appear with his three sons in vaudeville,
Wednesday and Thursday evening of this week, according to an announcement made
Monday.
Mr. Ravencroft has been at his home on the east side of the lake since he closed
a successful winter season in stock at Detroit where he had been taking a
leading part. The Ravencroft boys, age eight, 10 and 12, have been given vocal
training by their father and on several occasions have taken minor parts. Their
program at the local theater will consist of songs, recitations and monologues.
Mr. Ravencroft has announced that he will repeat his famous A.B.C. recitation.
Mr. Ravencroft intends to go into vaudeville and will, with his sons, play a few
engagements in surrounding towns when school is out. The boys, according to
persons who have heard them, form a good quartette with their father. As they
are very well known in Rochester, they will undoubtedly draw capacity houses for
the two nights.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 3, 1915]
RAVENCROFT BOYS' STUNT OVER IN BIG LEAGUE STYLE
Ralph Ravencroft and his three sons, Holden [RAVENCROFT], John [RAVENCROFT] and
Edward [RAVENCROFT], aged respectively 12, nine and eight, put on a vaudeville
stunt that "went over big" at the Kai Gee theater Wednesday night,
playing to several packed houses.
Together with their father, the boys form a quartet that really does sing, their
comedy numbers being especially good. "Home Sweet Home," "Rose of
the Mountain Trail," "You Wore a Tulip etc.," and other numbers
were all rendered cleverly by the quartet, the boys showing themselves already
past the amateur stage. A big future is predicted for them. Mention should be
made of the "A.B.C." specialty and the five reel picture, "How
Casy Made Good." The quartet is on again tonight.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 6, 1915]
MACY ITEMS
The orchestra who played for the dances at the new dance pavilion at Lake Nyona
is composed of Mrs. P. B. Carter, pianist and Robert Wilson, cornetist, of Macy,
George Howard and Raymond Clay of Rochester, and two other young men from
Rochester whose names were not learned.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, October 31, 1925]
P. WHITEMAN AND BAND IN BIG PROGRAM THURS.
In response to numerus requests from radio listeners Paul Whiteman and his
orchestra of which organization George Howard, Fritz Bastow and John Ravencroft
are members, will play "When Day is Done" as a feature of their
broadcast over the Columbia network from 9:30 to 10 o'clock Thursday night.
"When Day is Done" was introduced and popularized by Whiteman and his
band several years ago. This feature program will be heard from a specially
constructed soundproof studio in the Granada Cafe in Chicago where Whiteman's
band is now appearing. Others on the program besides the local boys who are
billed under the title of the "King's Jesters" are Mildred Bailey,
contralto, Jack Fulton, tenor and the Paul Sisters harmony singers.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, November 10, 1930]
PICTURE IN DAILY NEWS
A picture showing George Howard, Fritz Bastow and John Ravencroft and their
accompanist, Fred MacDermott, appeared in the Chicago Daily News Monday
afternoon. The three Rochester boys are members of the Paul Whiteman orchestra
which is playing an engagement in the Edgewater Beach Hotel in Chicago. Howard,
Ravencroft and Bastow are billed as the "Kings Jesters."
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, December 1, 1931]
VOCAL TROMBONES
A story taken from the Cleveland Plain Dealer and sent in by Raymond D. Gohn, of
Cleveland, gives the information that the trombone quartet used by the King's
Jesters over the radio produced by the vocal cords alone. The Jesters with three
Rochester boys have made quite a reputation for its musical imitations. Francis
Bastow, John Ravencroft and George Howard, of Rochester, and Ray McDermott
compose the quartet. The story said this information was given to settle all
arguments about the trombone numbers the boys give quite often.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, January 12, 1932]
AND THIS TELLS HOW GEORGE GOT HIS NAME
Here is a new story on George Howard, well known radio star of NBC, who
entertains over the air with Francis Bastow and John Ravencroft. It appeared in
a recent issue of The Chicago Herald and Examiner and was written by Ulmer
Turner, radio editor in the column "Behind The Mike." The NBC
Songfellows is composed of the three former Rochester boys who have been
"going big" on the radio for several years. The story goes as follows:
"Folks call George Howard a 'two-mile tenor.'
"Unable to restrain my curiosity as to how such a nickname started, I
inquired among his friends. * * * The story is an unusual one.
"Years ago George played in an orchestra with two friends Francis Bastow
and John Ravencroft. * * * On their days off the trio would charter a Lake
Manitou boat and go for a ride. When two miles out, they would start singing * *
* Long and hard was their melody. · · ·
"Finally the villagers who lived ashore complained of their boisterous
songfests and had their city council pass a rule prohibiting the noisy boat
rides. * * * One person, however was not hostile. He was openly incredulous * *
* In all of these parties he heard a single tenor voice that seemed to be wafted
over those two miles with remarkable volume. * * * Result: This one-man
favorable audience looked up "that loud tenor" when the boat came
ashore the last night.
"A fast friendship was struck and McDermott finally signed up the whole
trio for a radio act.* * * * You know them today as NBC's Songfellows."
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, October 13, 1932]
KING'S JESTERS COMING TO COLONIAL GARDENS JULY 16
Rochester dance patrons and radio fans throughout northern Indiana will welcome
the announcement made this week by the management of Colonial Gardens that they
have secured the King's Jesters for the feature entertainment at their pavilion
Sunday night, July 16th.
These internationally known radio stars were secured through the National
Broadcasting Co., of Chicago, under whose sponsorship they have been giving
daily programs six times per week over a nation-wide hook-up.
The King's Jesters, a few years ago during their broadcasts over Chicago and
Cincinnati stations attracted the attention of the world-renown King of Jazz,
Paul Whiteman, who booked them, for a long run with his band. In the role of
featured harmony numbers and comedy high-lights, while with the Whiteman band,
the Jesters mounted to undreamed of heights of popularity throughout the United
States and as a consequence they were later engaged by the National Broadcasting
Network organization of Chicago.
Their engagement at Rochester was secured only after a long series of
propositions offered by the Colonial Gardens' Chicago booking agency and the
final consummation of the deal was finally brought about by the insistent
efforts of the Jesters themselves, three of whom are former Rochester, Ind. men.
The personnel of the Jesters is comprised of George Howard, baritone, Francis
Bastow, tenor, John Ravencroft, basso, and Ray MacDermott, pianist and composer.
The King's Jesters will give a complete repetoire of their feature hits while
with Paul Whiteman and other new and orginal harmony and "hot-cha"
numbers during their appearance at the Colonial Gardens Sunday evening.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 13, 1933]
KING'S JESTERS RECEIVE STORY IN CHICAGO PAPER
The following story appeared in the radio section of the Chicago Herald and
Examiner recently and is about George Howard, John Ravencroft and Fritz Bastow,
who form the broadcasting trio known as the King's Jesters.
The facts in the story are somewhat erroneous as those who read the following
account will know but nevertheless it was quite a boost for the three young
local radio artists. The story is as follows:
"Hero-worship started the King's Jesters on the road to radio stardom.
"Their small town of Rochester, Indiana, was entertained mainly by home
town talent in those days when the boys were members of an orchestra known as
Howard's Rhythm Rascals, and when the boys really knew hotcha rhythm and
punished it.
"Whenever a feature attraction of any magnitude would come to town, the
entire populace would turn out - cheering at the entertainment. Stars names of
the first water were rarities in the old home town, which thrived on good people
and simple homespun entertainment. Consequently, when Paul Whiteman came to
town, real excitement prevailed. For here was their chance to see the King of
Jazz in Person. To the boys it was the opportunity of a lifetime. . . and they
grasped that opportunity.
"Every moment of Whiteman's stay was witnessed by the embryo King's Jesters
who watched the every move of the moustached maestro . . . and as they literally
hung around the bandstand they struck an acquaintanceship with one of Whiteman's
stalwarts, Ray McDermott. He became interested in the boys and their story - in
their ambition to strike the big time with their singing and vocal orchestra
ideas. He listened to them. Became more interested. Trained them, gave them
hope, encouragement, ideas.
"And when he hit Cincinnati with King Whiteman, he waited for his
opportunity to arrange for an audition for the boys. The time came - and up came
the boys suitcases in their hands and hearts in their mouths. "Mac"
was reclassified as a member of the "King's Jesters" as Whiteman named
them.
"But back to the debut with Whiteman. The boys bowed into the ether from
WLW - and startled themselves as well as the natives. Their introduction to
radio was perfectly casual, as part of the gigantic Whiteman troupe - but
getting the casual introduction was the struggle for these boys from the South .
. . Well, anyway, south of the water tower in Rochester, Ind."
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, March 13, 1934]
KING'S JESTERS ARE MEMBERS OF NEW BAND
Fritz Bastow, George Howard and John Ravencroft who are members of the
"King's Jesters" radio artists have joined a new six-piece orchestra
which was formed in Chicago this month.
The band is composed of seven members which includes the three Rochester men,
Ray McDermott who has been the piano accmpanist for the Jesters, two other men
and a girl blues singer.
The band has signed a contract to appear in the Brown Hotel, Louisville, Ky.,
starting on April 1. The orchestra will be under the management of the Music
Corporation of America.
Liked Band
The manager of the Brown Hotel heard the band during its first audition and was
so impressed with their music that he signed them immediately for a long
engagement in his hotel.
The King's Jesters will not lose their identity with the new band. They have
cancelled their radio contracts in Chicago to join the orchestra.
Mr. Bastow, Mr. Howard and Mr. Ravencroft have had much experience in orchestra
work. They were members of the Howard Syncopators, a local band, managed by
Ayrton Howard, and later appeared for several seasons with Paul Whiteman's band
and other noted bands.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 15, 1935]
RAY McDERMOTT'S BAND IS NOW ON AIR DAILY
The Ray McDermott Orchestra, which was built around the three original King's
Jesters, George Howard, Francis Bastow and John Ravencroft, of this city, may
now be heard daily over station WAVE - 940 kilocycles - Louisville, Ky.
This new band is comprised of six pieces and a number of novelty entertainers
and vocalists. The orchestra may be heard on Mondays, Tuesdays, 8:15 and 10
p.m.; Wednesdays, 7:45 and 10 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:30 and 10 p.m.; Fridays, 7:45
and 10 p.m. and Saturdays at 12:45. The band is now playing at the Brown hotel,
in Louisville.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 13, 1935]
PRETTY CONTRALTO IS SINGING WITH JESTERS
An attractive four-column illustraton, depicting the King's Jesters and their
newly acquainted hot-cha, contralto songbird, Miss Marjorie Whitney, of Lincoln,
Neb., was featured in the Sunday edition of the Detroit Times.
The King's Jesters, comprised of the little contralto, John Ravencroft, Francis
Bastow, George Howard and Ray McDermott, are broadcasting daily at the Hotel
Morrison in Chicago and also over the NBC network. The Jesters engaged the
services of Miss Whitney when they heard her in person with an orchestra in
Louisville, Ky., a few weeks ago.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 16, 1936]
KING'S JESTERS NOW PLAYING AT BISMARCK IN CHICAGO
The original King's Jesters, which all Rochester knows as John Ravencroft,
George Howard, Fritz Bastow and Ray McDermott, are doing headline business in
Chicago following their opening "on their own" at the Bismarck Hotel
in Chicago Friday night.
The King's Jesters first came into prominence as featured attractions with Paul
Whiteman's band a few seasons ago. The original King's Jesters numbered four and
were those named above, but now the troup numbers seven and includes the
"queen," Marjory Whitney.
But the King's Jesters trade name remains and, as jesters they give a world of
comedy and serious song numbers and dance music that would make even wall
flowers swing into action. They have numerous instrumental combinations for the
fox trotting and equally attracting vocal combinations for the bright straight
and novelty tunes they sell. Ravencroft, Bastow and Howard compose the regular
song trio, aided at times with the sweet voice "Queen Marjory"
Whitney.
Of all the bands that have used that interesting number called "Annie's
Cousin Fanny," the Jesters, in the opinion of Charlie Dawn of the Chicago
American's night-life staff, have done more to popularize the tune.
"They've got unlimited choruses of the catchy song - and every chorus a
laugh," wrote Dawn in the Saturday's American.
Other novelty hits which scored well with the Bismarck guests include the
"Blue Birds and the Black Birds," and their own "Down
Yonder" colored preacher bit.
Howard serves as the master of ceremonies, introducing the vast pocket editions
of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers - Orville and Norma Detrick. These young folks
know their graceful tap dancing. Clarissa Ellis, dancer is also with the troupe.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 29, 1936]
KNOCK-KNOCK NEARLY KNOCKS AWAY JESTERS' NEW SPONSOR
A story by Charles Gilchrest, radio editor of the Chicago Daily News, and
carried in that newspaper recently, concerns the humorous account of how the
King's Jesters, a well known group of Rochester boys who have gained fame via
radio, almost lost an important sponsor's contract.
The story is printed verbatim from the Daily News:
"That screwy game of Knock-knock almost lost the King's Jesters their new
commercial sponsor.
"The four co-sponsors of the "biggest little band in town" have
adjoining quarters in a north side apartment house, and have been driving each
other crazy lately with their door-knocking activities - a new version of this
inevitable and objoxious question. Their idea of fun is to knock on each others'
front doors and when the occupant answers with the customery 'Who's there?' they
emit a Bronx cheer and dash back to their own abode.
"Several weeks back an advertising agency executive stopped by one morning
with a contract for their new WMAQ morning commercial program.
"The agency man first knocked on George Howard's door, but that young man
didn't bother to answer, having already been heckled several times that morning.
Knocking on the apartment doors of Ray McDermott, John Ravencroft and Francis
Bastow produced the same futile results, although on one occasion a deep
raspberry sound came from behind one of the doors.
"The exasperated advertising executive went downtown to his office with
blood or something in his eyes and called Howard on the phone. After a great
deal of explanation, Howard persuaded the agency man to allow the boys to come
down to his office and sign the contract in person. They now have sworn off the
diverting sport of knock-knocks in all its forms. The boys are heard with their
queen, Marjorie Whitney, each weekday morning from 11:15 o 11:30 over WMAQ under
the sponsorship of The Fair Store."
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, September 14, 1936]
RAY McDERMOTT DIES VICTIM OF PNEUMONIA
Ayrton Howard, of this city, today received word from his brother George, of
Chicago, that Ray McDermott, who has been ill with pneumonia in an Evanston
hospital, had passed away at 8:30 o'clock Saturday morning.
Mr. McDermott was the pianist and director of the King's Jesters, a nationally
known group of radio entertainers. The deceased had often visited this city and
for a number of seasons was with the Murray Horton orchestra at the Colonial
Hotel and Gardens. Mr. McDermott is survived by his widow. His home was in
Cincinnati, Ohio.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 2, 1937]
JESTERS HEAD REVUE
The King's Jesters, composed of George Howard, Fritz Bastow and John Ravencroft
and their band on Wednesday evening opened a new floor show in the Blue Fountain
Room at the LaSalle Hotel in Chicago. The show has received very favorable
comment from Chicago newspaper reviewers. The local boys have also appeared in
the Sherman, Morrison and Bismark hotels in Chicago.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, February 13, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS ON BILLBOARD COVER PAGE
The King's Jesters orchestra of which organization George Howard, John
Ravencroft and Fritz Bastow are members received much publicity this week when
their band's picture was used on the front cover page of the July issue of the
"Billboard" one of America's foremost amusement weeklies.
The band is composed of seven members and has been playing for several months in
the LaSalle Hotel in Chicago. Prior to that they filled a number of engagements
in other Chicago hotels and night clubs.
The picture shows the members of the band and their queen Marjorie Whitney. The
King's Jesters are known as "America's Biggest Little Band." They are
now under the management of Consolidated Radio Artists, Inc. of Chicago.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 30, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS TO PLAY AT FAIRVIEW, JULY 17-18
Following the News-Sentinel's announcement Wednesday that the photo of King's
Jesters and their queen, Marjorie Whitney, had been chosen for the cover of the
latest issue of the "Billboard," one of America's foremost amusement
weeklies, Harry E. Page, operator of the Fairview Hotel & Dance Gardens,
announced that he has secured The Jesters and their queen for a two days
engagement Saturday and Sunday, July 17th and 18th.
The band, in which George Howard, John Ravencroft and Fritz Bastow are the
outstanding features, is just completing a several months engagement in the La
Salle Hotel, Chicago. And, the management of the LaSalle is asking the
Consolidated Radio Artists, Inc., of Chicago, for a return engagement after the
vacation which they begin Tuesday.
Their forthcoming engagement at the Fairview will be the first "America's
Biggest Little Band" has played in this vicinity.
They have been broadcasting nightly over a coast to coast hookup from the
LaSalleHotel.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, July 2, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS APPEARING AT FAIRVIEW GARDENS
Three Rochester high school boys who played instruments and harmonized well
together were the start of the nationally famous King's Jesters Orchestra which
is booked to appear with its equally famous queen, Marjorie Whitney, at the
Fairview hotel dance Gardens tonight. They are George Howard, John Ravencroft
and Fritz Bastow.
The boys first attracted the attention of Paul Whiteman while they were playing
and singing over radio station WLW in Cincinnati. The "King of Jazz"
was seeking male singers and considered himself lucky when he found the boys who
are now known from coast to coast as the King's Jesters.
Whiteman featured them with his orchestra during radio broadcasts, in theatres,
and in leading hotels and night clubs throughout the nation. After two years
they broke away from him and launched on their own singing over NBC stations as
the Melody Men and the Songfellows. However, they felt they were not clicking
the way they should. Blaming it on the loss of their old title, they persuaded
Whiteman to let them use it again, and at once they gained greater popularity.
About two years ago while playing at the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco they
decided to enlarge their unit and added their charming singing queen, Marjorie
Whitney. They are a versatile crew, doubling on piano, saxaphone, clarinet,
violin, or practically any instrument placed in their hands.
The boys in the organization have one common hobby, photography. In the winter
they skate together and in summer they play golf. Howard and Ravencroft are
fishermen, and Bastow is a rodeo enthusiast.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 17, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS HELD OVER AT FAIRVIEW
The King's Jesters and their queen Marjorie Whitney who played a two days'
engagement at the Fairview Hotel, Lake Manitou, Saturday and Sunday nights, are
being held over for an entire week starting tonight.
The nationally famous Jester's Orchestra was featured at the La Salle Hotel,
Chicago, throughout the past winter, and are booked to return there again
following the close of their engagement at Fairvie next Sunday night.
Their engagement here is more or less in the nature of a homecoming since three
of the boys were born in Rochester and Fulton county. They are George Howard,
John Ravencroft, and Fritz Bastow.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 19, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS SIGN 6 MONTH'S CONTRACT
Autographed pictures of The King's Jesters and their queen Marjorie Whitney may
be had for the asking at the Rochester Night Dance to be held at the Fairview
Gardens this evening.
The Rochester Night is being arranged at the suggestion of The Jesters who find
a great deal of enjoyment in playing for the entertainment of their Rochester
friends and acquaintances.
Among their guests at the Fairview this past week end was Mr. James Smith, owner
and operator of the La Salle Hotel, Chicago. While here, Mr. Smith and The
Jesters signed contracts for a six months return engagement in the Blue Fountain
Room of the La Salle, opening September 4th.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 22, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS PRAISED BY CHICAGO WRITERS
An article appearing in Wednesday edition of the Chicago Daily News will be of
interest to the Rochester friends of "King's Jesters". The King's
Jesters, who are advertised in the Chicago papers as the "biggest little
band in town" played a two-weeks engagement at the Fairview Gardens during
the summer season and reopened their Chicago engagement at the LaSalle Hotel a
few days ago. The story follows:
"Seems only yesterday we were bidding farewell to the King's Jesters and
their lithesome queen at the Hotel LaSalle, when we assisted at a hold-out
welcome home party when they reopened the autumn season in the somewhat
redecorated Blue Fountain room.
"John Ravencroft, who plays the saxophone, Ira [sic] Bastow, with the
guitar; and George Howard, the drummer, left June 29 for a holiday in their home
town of Rochester, Ind. They had been working in one spot for so long they were
making faces at each other. The vacation was eighteen days. It turned out to be
another eighteen days of work, sighed Mr. Ravencroft.
" 'We went to work at a spot on Lake Manitou,' said the saxophonist. 'I had
a sentimental regard for the place, because as a kid I played croquet where the
dance floor is now. Then we went to Blossom Health, just outside of Detroit, and
came back here.'
"It is difficult to tell where one of the King's Jesters' shows begins and
where it leaves off. These indefatigable musicians seem to be on the floor every
minute; they sing and play more songs in the course of an evening than other
headliners would in a month of Saturdays. You'd think the pipes couldn't take
that sort of exercise; these boys thrive on it.
"Numbers in the show that were new to us - and hope to you - are 'Turkish
Delight,' a salty story vocally told of a sultan who had more wives than one;
'The Deacon Steps Out,' sung with the 'Peck-in" dance introduced in 'New
Faces of 1937' and 'Today I am a Man'.
"The highlight of the boys' performance, however, was written by Jim
Savage, publisher for Balaban & Kats, a satire on radio programs. For lack
of a better title, shall we call it 'Commercial'? A sweet love song is started
by one of the ladys, or by the queen, Marjorie Whitney; after a bar or two of
raucous and insistent voice interrupts to exploit the values of Umplatz'
brassieres, or the famed cold cream of Miss Phoo. A bright idea, smartly
executed. Another of the Savage opera is "Annie's Cousin Fannie," who
turns out to be a lass of unique attainments.
"The queen, the bouncy Marjorie, has a number of songs to herself, which
include 'They Can't Take That Away From Me' and 'There'll be Changes Made'. The
kid from Lincoln, Neb., wore a powder blue gown of taffeta, sprinkled with
brilliants, and with puffed sleeves.
" 'And she is wearing that new shiny makeup, latest thing from Hollywood,'
added a brunette on our right. 'But, of course, you wouldn't know that.' "
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, September 13, 1937]
KING'S JESTERS WILL ENLARGE THEIR BAND
The King's Jesters orchestra which is owned by George Howard, John Ravencroft
and Fritz Bastow, will conclude their engagement in the LaSalle Hotel in Chicago
by the end of December and will then sprout out into a full-sized band.
Three more men will be added to the band's personnel bringing the number to ten.
With the enlarged personnel the King's Jesters will be able to fill engagements
in larger night spots than they have in the past.
The augmented King's Jesters will open at the Commodore Club in Detroit, Mich.
On New Year's Eve remaining there through January 27. The band's programs are
being broadcast in Chicago and will be also at Detroit.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, December 7, 1938]
KING'S JESTERS BAND
The King's Jesters orchestra, which numbers in its personnel George Howard,
Fritz Bastow and John Ravencroft, opened a month's engagement in the Rice hotel
in Huston, Texas, Saturday night. They will fill engagements in hotels in Dallas
and San Antonio, Texas before returning North. The band now numbers eleven
persons.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, March 13, 1939]
KING'S JESTERS IDLE DUE TO LABOR TROUBLE
A union labor dispute in Houston, Texas had caught the King's Jesters orchestra,
of which three Rochester men, John Ravencroft, Fritz Bastow and George Howard,
are members in the crimp and as a result they are now marking time in Houston.
The band had a four weeks engagement booked for the ballroom in the Rice Hotel
in Houston, starting March 12. A week after they opened the Houston date the
union trouble developed.
The dispute between the hotel and union leaders is over who should operate a
spot light in the ballroom which spot was used during a portion of the time the
King's Jesters were playing.
It wook about the length of time it would take for a man to bat his eye to do
this job. The hotel had one of its employees do this.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 24, 1939]
FLIES OWN PLANE
Buddy Rogers, whose orchestra pleased a large crowd of dancers at Colonial Hotel
and Terrace Gardens last evening, took off about 1:30 p.m. today in his own
Stinson cabin plane for Cleveland, where the band plays tonight. Members of the
group left earlier by special bus. Rogers, who is a licensed pilot, has a flier
with him and usually takes one member of his band in the plane. Miss Marjorie
Whitney, formerly of the King's Jesters, pleased last night with her vocal
renditions.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, August 3, 1939]
KING'S JESTERS FEATURED AT HOTEL WASHINGTON
Rochester's own proteges, those versatile music wizards of the stage and radio,
the King's Jesters and their orchestra, are featured nightly in a sparkling
entertainment at the beautiful Sapphire Room of Hotel Washington in
Indianapolis.
John Ravencroft, Francis Bastow and George Howard, were school mates here in
Rochester, where they were quite well known for their exceptional harmonizing
and musical abilities and were much in demand for events in this territory.
The Jesters achieved national fame as featured entertainers with Paul Whiteman,
celebrated orchestra leader, who met them during an engagement near Rochester.
The boys auditioned for him and were signed on the spot to continue the tour
with Whiteman.
These dispensers of unique rhythms have gone a long way since then and have been
wildly acclaimed through their ma]usical presentations both with Whiteman and
over the air. During their engagement in the Sapphire Room, they will be heard
nightly over WFBM, Indianapolis' CBS outlet, and three times weekly over the
national network of CBS stations throughout the country.
With the King's Jesters and their orchestra is their "Queen," Mary
Ruth Milam, charming songstress whose excellent singing voice and magnetic
personality charm all who hear her.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 13, 1940]
KING'S JESTERS ARE NOW ON CBS NETWORK
Indianapolis, Oct. 11. - The King's Jesters, versatile musicians of stage and
radio fame, currently playing in the Sapphire Room of Hotel Washington, are also
being featured over CBS national network every Tuesday and Thursday nights and
are heard nightly over WFBM, Indianapolis' CBS outlet, which feeds the programs
to the network.
These programs are broadcast directly from the Sapphire Room. It is said to be
the first time Indianapolis has had a national representation in the
late-at-night dance orchestra field.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 11, 1940]
KING'S JESTERS TO APPEAR WITH GOODMAN'S BAND
The King's Jesters trio, composed of Francis Bastow, George Howard and John
Ravencroft, all of this city, and Miss Marjorie Whitney of Chicago, will make
two guest appearances with Benny Goodman and his orchestra, one on July 24th and
one on July 7th. The program will be broadcast over a national hook-up. There
are to be seven shows in all, with the Andrews Sisters appearing on three, the
Smoothies on one, the Mills Brothers on and [sic] and the King's Jesters on two.
Starting Sunday, June 28th, the Jesters and their orchestra will open a week's
engageement at the Club Lido in South Bend. Beginning September 11th they will
be heard on the Pillsbury flour program four times a week for fifteen minutes at
9:00 a.m. On this program the trio will present vocal numbers and will also be
joined by the bass player and the organist, both members of their orchestra, for
instrumental numbers. Walter Patterson is to be the soloist on the show.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 25, 1941]
KING'S JESTERS COMING TO COLONIAL AUGUST 8
The King's Jesters and their orchestra come to Colonial Hotel and Terrace
Gardens for two weeks, beginning Friday, August 8th, direct from a great triumph
at the famous Philadelphia hotel, Philadelphia, through arrangements completed
recently by Music Corporation of America.
The King's Jesters, three Rochester high school boys, George Howard, John
Ravencroft and Fritz Bastow, who played instrtuments and harmonized well
together, were the start of the now nationally popular King's Jesters.
It was while playing and singing over WLW in Cincinnati that the boys attracted
the attention of Paul Whiteman, who was seeking male singers for his famous
band. They were auditioned, accepted and named "The King's Jesters."
They remained with Paul Whiteman for two years, and then started out for
themselves with a small band, augmenting the organization from time to time
until now it consists of seven men.
At the time of the Whiteman offer, Howard aspired to be a doctor, Bastow looked
forward to the he-man career of a civil engineer, and Ravencroft leaned toward
professional and scientific farming. But the offer of "The King of
Jazz" made them forget all other ambitions.
Record For Decca
The instrumentation of the band is as follows: one trumpet, Hammond organ, one
saxophone, bass, piano, guitar and drums. Seven men in all, including the King's
Jesters, a singing trio, who also do solos. Their specialty numbers include a
burlesque on commercial broadcasting. "Today I'm a Man," and their
"Annie's Cousin Fanny," is more or less of a trade mark with them.
They have also recorded for the Decca Company their most popular sellers being
"Pedro, the Cocktail Shaker," "You Left Me For the Leader of a
Swing Band," and "The Fly Outflew the Flea." The style of the
Jester's band is sweet swing, and they present a much more informal and friendly
appearance than straight dance orchestras.
Some of the outstanding engagements of the King's Jesters and their orchestra
include the Sir Francis Drake hotel in San Francisco; Clover Club in Hollywood
(a membership of movie stars); Wm. Penn hotel in Pittsburgh; Claridge hotel,
Memphis; Carlton hotel, Washington; LaSalle hotel, Chicago; Commodore Club,
Detroit; Rice hotel, Houston; Adelphus hotel, Dallas; Terrace Beach Club,
Virginia Beach, Virginia; and the Philadelphia hotel in Philadelphia; from all
of which spots they broadcast over the NBC coast-to-coast and Mutual networks.
The King's Jesters have one common hobby - photography. In the winter they skate
together and in the summer they play golf. Howard and Ravencroft are fishermen
and Bastow is a rodeo enthusiast.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, August 5, 1941]
KING'S JESTERS SINGING IN CHICAGO
Local friends and relatives were today advised that the King's Jesters, Fritz
Bastow, John Ravencroft and George Howard, of this city, are now singing with
Harold Stoke's orchestra at the Edgewater Beach hotel, Chicago, for a month's
engagement.
The Jesters and their band are still continuing their regular morning program,
on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m., for the Pillsbury Flour company.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, January 5, 1942]
HOWARD AND BASTOW ACCEPTED BY ARMY
Parents of George Howard and Fritz Bastow, members and part owners of the King's
Jesters band, were notified today that the two musicians had passed their
pre-induction examinations in Chicago and were awaiting their calls to begin
active training.
Both membersof the popular band are married and have families.
Howard is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Howard, and Bastow is the son of Mr.
and Mrs. Ira Bastow.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, March 29, 1944]
__________
From Fritz Bastow and George Howard [reported by Shirley Oates, in Fulton
County Folks, Vol. 1, by Shirley Willard] comes the story of a fateful, warm
summer night in the later 20's, when with fellow RHS student John Ravencroft,
they pulled a topless, fenderless flivver up beside a vacationist's cottage on
Lake Manitou and started to sing.
The three had formed a trio known as Howard's Melody Syncopators, directed by
Howard's elder brother, Ayrton Howard. Bastow played the guitar and banjo,
Ravencroft the clarinet and saxaphone and Howard the drums. At this time the
three had a local monopoly on the practice of serenading resort cattages for
nickels and dimes.
On this particular night, they were greeted with a barrage of rotten apples.
Quickly they cranked up their jalopy, but before they could get away, a man
emerged from a neighboring cottage and stopped them. "My name is Ray
McDermott," he said. "My neighbors might not appreciate your
vocalizing but I do. Come over to my place and sing." McDermott was a
pianist for a Cincinnati orchestra. He arranged an audition for the trio on WLW,
Cincinnati's pioneer radio station, and the boys clicked. He joined them as
accompanist and manager.
And that was the beginning of the foursome which Jazz King Paul Whiteman later
dubbed the "King's Jesters," when they joined his band. After a few
years they left Whiteman to go out on their own, with a small band, seven men in
all.
They appeared at such places as the Sir Francis Drake hotel in San Francisco;
William Penn hotel in Pittsburgh; LaSalle hotel in Chicago; the Carlton hotel in
Washington, and the Philadelphia hotel in Philadelphia. For all these spots they
broadcast over the NBC and Mutual coast-to-coast networks.
They played summer engagements at both Colonial and Fairview, and always
featured their litheome queen of song, Marjorie Whitney.
__________
RAVENCROFT, LAST KING'S JESTER, DIES
John A. Ravencroft II, of Skokie, Ill., died Tuesday, Oct. 22, at the King Home
in Evanston, Ill., after an extended illness. He was 90 years of age.
He was the last surviving member of the King's Jesters, a nationally-known
musical trio formed over 70 years ago by three Rochester High School students -
Ravencroft, Francis (Fritz) BASTOW and George HOWARD.
The name of their trio originated when they were featured in music and comedy
with the band of Paul Whiteman, then known as "The King of Jazz." They
joined Whiteman in 1930 to replace the Rhythm Boys, whose members included a
young Bing Crosby.
The Jesters left Whiteman in 1932, free-lanced on radio shows, toured the
country with their own dance band for awhile and finally began performing
exclusively for Station WBBM in Chicago. This relationship embraced television
as well as radio and lasted 20 years until their 1962 retirement.
Ravencroft played saxophone and clarinet, Bastow the guitar and banjo, Howard
the drums and vibraharp. When they sang, it was Howard on melody, Ravencroft as
baritone and Bastow as tenor.
The group first got together while in high school to serenade girls at
summertime house parties at Lake Manitou. Their professional career started in
1925 as Howard's Melody Syncopators led by Howard's brother Ayrton [HOWARD], who
also was the arranger. They were discovered at Lake Manitou in 1929 by a
Cincinnati pianist who arranged for an audition at Radio Station WLW in
Cincinnati. They won the job as The Howard Trio and were off on three decades of
continuing success.
After retirement, Howard and Bastow returned to Rochester and both died here,
Howard on Dec. 2, 1991, Bastow on Sept. 8, 1992. Ravencroft, however, remained
in Skokie where he had resided for the past 50 years.
He was born in Rochester Dec. 6, 1905, the son of Ralph J. and Iona HOLDEN
RAVENCROFT and was married to Frances E. JONES, who died in 1986.
Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Dan (Sandra R.) CARNELLI-MORIARITY, Kenosha,
Wisc.; one son, John A. RAVENCROFT III, Glenview, Ill.; four grandchildren,
Craig T. CARNELLI, Deerfield, Ill., and Mrs. Roy (Lisa D.) CARNELLI-LEE,
Evanston, Ill.; J. Christopher RAVENCROFT, Downers Grove, Ill., and J. Hadley
RAVENCROFT, Champaign, Ill.; and two great-grandchildren, Nichole M. [LEE] and
R. Justin LEE.
Also surviving are two nephews, Dr. Timothy RAVENCROFT of Rochester and Thomas
RAVENCROFT of Barrington, Ill. Two brothers, Holden [RAVENCROFT] and Edward [RAVENCROFT],
preceded in death.
Graveside memorial services will be held Monday at 1 p.m. at the I.O.O.F.
cemetery in Rochester. Donations may be made to a favorite charity or to the
American Cancer Society.
[The Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, October 24, 1996]
KING'S JESTERS HAVE BEEN STAYING AT LAKE
The King's Jesters, Rochester's contribution to the entertainment world, will
return to Chicago Wednesday after enjoying a short vacation in Rochester and at
Lake Manitou. Fritz Bastow, George Howard, and John Ravencroft, Rochester
members of the Jesters, have been visiting friends and relatives in this
vicinity. Vacationing at the lake with the local members of the Jesters, have
been Mr. and Mrs. Jay Woods, of Beckley, W. Va., Mr. and Mrs. Walter Patterson
of Chicago, and Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Moorman, also of Chicago.
The Jesters, who recently have been appearing over WLS in Chicago for Pillsbury
Flour, under the name, Pillsbury's Jesters, will complete their stay on that
show this week. In July, the Jesters will return to the air lanes as a staff
orchestra for WBBM, Chicago, under their own name.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, June 2, 1942]
KING OIL BURNER CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
TOPPS GARMENT CO. LEASES TWO ROOMS IN MOOSE BUILDING
To give Topps Garment Company needed space for expansion of their plant
facilities, a committee of local business men, working in cooperation with Fred
Moore, effected a lease of two more rooms in the Moose building, opposite the
Topps plant, on a five year basis effective July 1.
With the Topps Garment Company entering into the lease, they will gain space now
occupied by Thomas Second Hand Store and King Oil Burner Company, to be
converted into a cutting room, thus enabling them to place more sewing machinery
in the factory room formerly used for cutting operations. They will be able to
add at least 25 to their payroll and will be in a position to bid on larger
government contracts than they have heretofore been able to handle.
Carlton Haskett has been appointed trustee by the business men to sell
merchandise in the Thomas Second Hand Store following purchase of the stock by
the business men.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 23, 1941]
KINGAN & CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW FIRM TAKES OVER
Announcement was made today by Claude Johnson and N. O. Nelson that they have
taken over the poultry and egg receiving station at 409 North Main street, which
has been operated by Kingan and Company for several years and will continue to
operate the same under the firm name of Rochester Poultry Company.
Both men are well known to farmers of Fulton county. Mr. Johnson has operated a
meat market and poultry and egg buying station in East Ninth street for a number
of years.
Mr. Nelson for a number of years was the owner of a grocery store in Rochester
and later was the local manager for the Miami Produce Company and the Kingan and
Company egg and poultry buying branch in this city.
The new owners took possession of the plant last Monday. An adverisement of the
new concern appears in this issue of The News-Sentinel.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, August 24, 1938]
KINGERY, MEAD [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
__________
TWENTY YEARS AGO
Bernie Wallace, the trapeze artist of the Wallace Circus, has Mead Kingery of
this city, in training and it is said that the pair will perform some of the
most daring mid-air feats next season every accomplished by man.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 21, 1911]
KINGS LAKE [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Located South of 550N and approximately 950W
Originally Shadle's Lake. Name changed to King's Lake around 1907/1910 due to
new owners, John King and Thomas King.
Since 1950 a large number of black people have moved from Chicago into permanent
homes around King's Lake. In 1970 they built a new Community Center where they
have dinners almost every Saturday. Charlie Rice has a grocery on the north side
of the lake.
[Bruce Lake and Delong, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
KINGS LAKE MONSTER [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
The Manitou monster has not been seen for many years, but a similar creature was
sighted in Kings Lake in 1894 by Mrs. C. W. Shadle, Ed Shadle (then a child of
six), John Beck, two carpenters and several fishermen.
KING'S TEXACO SERVICE STATION [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NOTICE. We are announcing a New Service - We are now equipped with the
latest Power Grease Gun. Complete Expert Auto Greasing. Work done by Dale
Hartman, who has had many years of experience in this line of work. KING'S
TEXACO SERVICE STATION, 11th & Main Streets.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, February 14, 1931]
KIRKENDALL, W. FRED [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] W. F. KIRKENDALL, Practical Dentist, Treating and Filling Teeth a
Specialty. All work warrented to give satisfaction. Over Blue Drug Store.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 13, 1893]
W. FRED KIRKENDALL (Biography)
W. Fred KIRKENDALL was born in Ohio in 1852 and came to Indiana five years
later. He lived on a farm until 19 years old when he entered the dental office
of Dr. M. M. REX and has practiced his adopted profession in Rochester ever
since, excepting two years residence in Argos. The Doctor holds a certificate
from the State Board of Dental Examiners and has built up a large practice, his
office being equipped to perform all operations known to modern dentistry. He is
married and has two bright children.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
[Adv] DENTIST. Dr. W. F. Kirkendall, opposite the Arlington, treats your old
tooth or makes a new one. Gas and local anesthetics used. Satisfaction
guaranteed and prices reasonable.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 11, 1899]
DENTAL OFFICE IS MOVED
Dr. Fred Kirkendall has moved his dental parlor from a room on the south side of
the public square to his residence at 1216 South Elm street.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, April 25, 1930]
KIRKENDALL & MACKEY [Rochester, Indiana]
Millinery store.
[See Economy Store]
__________
NEWS OF THE DAY
Kirkendall & Mackey are moving their millinery parlors from Wiles' store to
the room formerly occupied by the South Side restaurant, south of the court
house. They hope to be ready for business in their new quarters by Tuesday.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 11, 1911]
[Adv] Our Display of Spring Styles in Dress and Street Hats will be ready for
your inspection Wednesday, Mar. 18. . . . . South of the Court House.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 13, 1914]
TO MOVE BUSINESS
Kirkendall and Mackey, milliners, have leased the room in the Odd Fellows
building, for many years occupied by the Economy store. Decorators and
carpenters are now busy rearranging the room so that it will be ready for
occupancy about April 1. The lessess, who have operated a store in the Robbins
room on the south side of the public [block] for the past ten years, plan to
make their new establishment one of the finest in northern Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, March 18, 1926]
[Adv] CLOSE-OUT SALE of MILLINERY Starting on Saturday, February 23 - - -
Business Opportunity - Will sell entire stock of hats, fixtures and equipment to
anyone desiring such a business, or offering will be sold separately. - - - -
KIRKENDALL & MACKEY, Millinery Store, 829 Main [sic]
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, February 25, 1929]
KIRKLAND'S DRUG STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located NW corner 7th & Main.
Frame building.
Later the site of the Fieser Building.
KIRTLAND'S BOOK & VARIETY STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester, Indiana [Historical Review]
__________
[Adv] Kirtland's Book & Variety Store in the Star Store Building, East
Side Main Street. - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 9, 1877]
[Adv] R. E. Sharrard, Practical Watchmaker and Jeweler of over 20years
experience, has permanently located in Kirtland's Book & Variety Store - -
-.
[Adv] Henry P. Turner, Watchmaker and Jeweler. Repairing done with neatness
and dispatch on reasonable terms. All work guaranteed. Give us a try at
KIRTLAND'S BOOK STORE.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 5, 1878]
Kirtland's Book store is now in his fine room in the Commercial block.The
display of all kinds of goods is equal to the largest stores in the cities. It
is in fact a book store Emporium. We hope all our readers will go and see his
new stock in his new quarters. No place in the State can or will sell good goods
lower than can be bought there. See the advertisement on the first page.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 21, 1880]
KISTLER, L. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
Kistler's Four Meat Markets are all prepared to fill your order for Meats of any
kind. Special attention will be given to ready cooked and cold meats for supper
during the festival weeks. Call Our Phones.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, August 5, 1903]
NEWS OF THE DAY
A deal was made Wednesday, whereby Chas. F. Taylor became owner of L. C.
Kistler's brick store room and flat building on the corner of Main and Pearl
streets. Taylor will be given possession April 1st, and will move his meat
market from the Arlington block to that room.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 22, 1906]
TAYLOR WILL OPEN MEAT SHOP
The many friends of Charles Taylor of this city will be somewhat surprised to
learn that he is to re-engage in the meat market business in Rochester. Some
time ago he sold his business at the corner of Main and Ninth streets to L. C.
Kistler and went on the road as a traveling salesman for a Chicago meat packing
firm. However, after a few weeks he found that the work did not agree with him
and he resigned. Now he has purchased the Jacob Karn meat shop in the north end
and will move the fixtures to the room south of the court house which was
formerly occupied by the "Bud" Ware wholesale liquor house. Mr. Taylor
is well known in the local business world in the meat business and will, no
doubt, prove as successful this time as he has heretofore.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 13, 1912]
SHORT NEWS
A deal was completed today whereby Charles Taylor again takes possession of the
meat market, now operated by L. C. Kistler. Mr. Taylor formerly owned the meat
market on the corner of Main and Ninth streets and sold to Mr. Kistler about a
year ago, to take a position as traveling salesman. Mr. Kistler is undecided as
to what he will do in the future.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 17, 1913]
KISTLER'S MEAT MARKET [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] A NEW GROCERY. B. A. Carter has put in a fine new grocery stock in the
room with Kistler's Meat Market, and invites old friends and new patrons to call
and see him. - - - Remember the location -- Walters old stand opposite Court
House. B. A. CARTER.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 27, 1896]
[Adv] Having just received a large supply of Swartwood's Home Cured Smoked
Meats at KISTLER'S MEAT MARKET, and this being the first of the season, we are
going to sell nice Calla Hams at 15¢ per pound. - - - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 4, 1913]
KITCHEN KABINET ORCHESTRA [Macy, Miami County]
KITCHEN KABINET ORCHESTRA
The Ladies Aid Society of the Macy Methodist church will present "The
Kitchen Kabinet Orchestra" at the Woodrow school house three miles south of
the city on Federal Road 31 Friday evening, April 13th.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, April 12, 1928]
MACY
The Kitchen Cabinet Orchestra of the M. E. Church will present their program at
Plymouth Friday evening. They gave it at Athens last Friday.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, September 18, 1928]
KITCHEN OUTFITTING CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Napanee Dutch Kitchenet - - - - KITCHEN OUTFITTING CO., Located in Gas
Co.'s Office.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 28, 1924]
KIWANIS CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
Rochester is to have a Kiwanis Club. That announcement was made today by the
Committee of Fifteen along with the statement that 35 persons had already
applied for membership and that the application for a charter had been sent in.
. . [lengthy article] . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, April 2, 1929]
KIWANIS CLUB ORGANIZES FOR ACTION AT LUNCHEON
The first meeting of the business and professional men of the city who are
applying for a charter for a Kiwanis Club here was held at the Coffee Shop
Friday noon, and the preliminary organization was perfected.
The following officers were elected to take charge of the organization until the
charter is received. Hugh A. Barnhart, president; Harry Page, vice president;
Robert Shafer, secretary; Harry Wilson, treasurer; O. R. Carlson, district
trustee. Directors named were Dr. M. O. King, Murray McCarty, Charles Kreighbaum,
A. L. Deniston, Rev. D. Perry, Harry Rosenbury and Dr. C. E. Gilger.
Harry Page as chairman of the committee was in charge of the meeting until
the officers were elected. It was announced that the applications would be sent
in at once and that a meeting would [be] called some noon next week at which an
organizer from national headquarters would be present to instruct the officers
and committees in their duties. Later a banquet will be held some evening at
which neighboring Kiwanis Clubs will send delegations here and state and
national officers will attend.
A committee was appointed to appear before the county council at its meeting
April 11th with regard to the club show which will be held in Rochester next
fall. The men named Frank E. Bryant, Ray Newell and Rev. Perry.
It was explained again that just as soon as the charter is received the
membership will be enlarged so that all those who really desire to join and take
part in the activities for the betterment of the community can do so
immediately.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, April 5, 1929]
KIWANIS CLUB TO DIRECT POLICE RADIO FUND DRIVE
The Kiwanis Club held its regular meeting at the Rochester Country Club Monday
noon. After a two-course luncheon served on the lakeside porch the members held
a short business session at which several matters of local concern were brought
up.
President Lisle Krieghbaum read a letter from state Kiwanis officers in which it
was stated that the Kiwanis Club would head the drive to raise funds for
establishing a state police radio system over Indiana. Krieghbaum appointed a
committee to direct this work, the members being Oren Hendrickson, chairman,
Percy Smith, Frank Bryant, Otto McMahan, Frank Robb and Hugh A. Barnhart.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 24, 1933]
KLECKNER & SON [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Wm. B. KLECKNER & SON'S DAIRY, Rochester, Ind. The W. B. Kleckner
& Sons Dairy has purchased the milk business now being operated by the
undersigned. - - - - EDWARD CLAY. - - - - - .
KLEIN, IKE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Klein Brothers
__________
MISS KLEIN ON RADIO
Miss Miriam Klein, Kokomo, sister of Ike Klein of this city, sang over the
National Broadcasting Company chain Sunday from Chicago. Miss Klein who is a
soprano first appeared at 8:30 o'clock Sunday morning on the Melody Moments
program and again at 1 o'clock Sunday afternoon. Miss Klein's radio name is
"Myra Lane."
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, October 10, 1938]
KLEIN BROTHERS [Rochester, Indiana]
JUNK YARDS BRING MORE THAN $10,000
A deal was closed Thursday, whereby Klein Bros, Kokomo junk dealers, became the
owners of the Abe Berebitsky junk yards and all the stock on hands for a
consideration of more than $10,000. Klein Bros., who took possession
immediately, are interested in a Kokomo rolling mill, and will probably enlarge
the Rochester yards. Mr. Berebitsky, who is managing the local place for a short
time, stated that the new owners of his place of business would install a cutter
and would probably employ 18 or 20 men.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 17, 1919]
[Adv] Wanted - Your Hides, Furs and Wool at Highest Market Prices. We also buy
all kinds of Junk. KLEIN BROS, Successor to Abe Berebinsky. 400 N. Main St.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 10, 1919]
POLAY JUNK BUSINESS MOVING ACROSS STREET
Jake Polay, who recently dissolved partnership with Foster Haslett when Haslett
sold the building they occupied to Klein Brothers, has leased the building
formerly occupied by the Eagle Poultry Company, and is moving his stock and
equipment to the new location, where he will soon be ready for business again.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 11, 1921]
JUNK YARD MOVED
Klein Brothers, dealers in junk, who have been located at the southwest corner
of Main and Fourth streets since purchasing the business of Abe Berbitsky, have
moved into their new location recently purchased of Foster Hazlett. The concern
now occupies the brick building and yards on the northwest corner of the same
intersection.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 11, 1921]
PARTNERSHIP DISSOLVED
Klein Brothers, which has operated for many years here as a partnership in the
junk business was dissolved today at the request of the two brothers who own the
organization. They decided to separate and Ike Klein will own and operate the
business in Rochester, continuing under the same policy as before while his
brother will own their business in Kokomo. Mr. Klein will continue the business
in Rochester under his own name.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, April 13, 1931]
KLINE, FRANCIS M. [Union Township, Marshall County]
BIOGRAPHY
Francis M. Kline. - This man was born December 16, 1853, in Marshall County,
Ind., near the famous lake known by the name of Maxinkuckee. He is the son of
Diebolt and Elizabeth Kline, who were born in Germany and were married in
Buffalo, N.Y., about 1849. They immediately came to Marshall County and settled
on a farm near the above-named lake. The subject of this sketch married Sarah
Mahler, December 30, 1875. She was born May 21, 1854, and is the daughter of
Gideon, Sr. and Martha Mahler. They were born in Germany and were married in
Seneca County, Ohio, and came to this county in 1838 and settled on what is now
known as the old Mahler farm. The mother deceased April 5, 1875, and the father
December 17, 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Kline have two daughters, Mertha C., born July
30, 1878, and Mary E., born June 6, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Kline are both members of
church and are most valuable and respected citizens.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 34]
BIOGRAPHY
Francis M. Kline, a prosperous and representative farmer, was born in Union
township, Marshall county, Ind., Dec. 16, 1855. His parents were Diebold and
Elizabeth (Wingart) Kline, natives of Germany. His father was born June 14,
1814, and his mother Nov. 19, 1822. From the age of eight years Diebold Kline
made his own way in the world. At the age of eighteen years he came to America
and settled in Pennsylvania, where he was employed six years as a farm hand. He
then went to Canada, where he was likewise employed for two years. He then went
to Buffalo, N.Y., and there became a hostler for a lake captain. While thus
engaged he visited Marshall county, Ind., and entered fifty-two acres of land.
Here he lived six years, then selling the land, purchased another tract in the
same vicinity, and this latter tract of land his wife now occupies. Unto Diebold
Kline and wife were born the following children: Theodore, George W., Francis
M., Mary, deceased; Diebold, Henry W., deceased; John, William and Sarah. The
father's death occurred May 14, 1887. Francis M. was married at the age of
twenty-two to Sarah, daughter of Gideon and Justina Mahler. The above marriage
has given issue to the following children: Bertha C., Mary E., Cleveland C. and
Carrie D. Mr. Kline and his estimable wife are members of the Trinity Reform
church. Politically he is a staunch democrat.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 98]
KLINE, GROVER C. [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Grover C. Kline of Aubbeenaubbee township, Fulton county, was born June 15,
1884, the son of Frank M. and Sarah (Mahler) Kline, she from the same township,
he from Maxinkuckee, Marshall county. Mr. Kline's mother's parents were sturdy
pioneers of Aubbeenaubbee township, coming here when the county was new and
rough. When the Indians were removed from this vicinity it was the Klines who
helped to take them to Michigan City. Her grandfather's name was Gideon Mahler
who had a son of the same name who became a prominent farmer in Aubbeenaubbee
township and owned a large tract of land. He married Martha Jane Slonaker and
they were charter members of the Reformed Church at Delong. Grover Kline's
father came as a young man to the farm where they both now live. He, the father,
was a carpenter but became a farmer when he got onto the home site. He cleared
the land and built the home. His wife died December 4, 1922. The elder Kline had
a family of four children: Bertha, Marie, Grover C. and Carrie. Grover Kline
owes his early education to the local schools including the high school. He had
a year at Heidelburg University at Tiffin, Ohio, and normal work elsewhere. He
acquired a farm in Oklahoma and lived there for five years where he farmed and
taught school but the home state pulled him and in 1913 he came back to Indiana
where he has since lived and operated the home farm. He was married October 2,
1911, to Miss Pearl Bonnell and their children are: Robert, Frances, Bernice,
Wilhelmina, Margaret, Dorothey, all of whom are living. Mr. Kline was elected
trustee of the township January 1, 1923. He has been for years a member of the
I.O.O.F.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 227-228, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
KNAUPP, CAL [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Wile Department Store
KNAUFF, GERALD [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW MANAGER
Gerald Knauff today announced that he had taken over the management of the
Mobile Oil Company's bulk station here and will assume his new duties on Monday,
January 18th.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 14, 1943]
KNISELY SAW MILL [Rochester, Indiana]
KNISELY-PEABODY MILL SOLD
Columbia City Post, of Thursday.
Wm. H. Knisley, of this city, who has been connected with S. J. Peabody in saw
mill interests for ten or more years at Denver, Chili and Rochester, has
contracted to sell all of his holdings except the sawed lumber, to the Peabody
Bros. Co. The amount of consideration is not named but it will aggregate several
thousand dollars. The new company is composed of S. J. Peabody, of this city, J.
B. Peabody, of North Manchester, and J. W. Brockie, of Lafontaine. Mr. Knisely
has had an interest in the Denver mill for ten years and in the Chili mills for
eight years. The Chili mill was removed to Rochester a year ago last fall and
Walter Knisely, a son of Wm. H. Knisely, was installed as manager.
It is understood that as soon as the deal is consummated that J. W. Brockie will
assume charge of the Rochester mill and that Walter Knisely will resign. Both
mills are circle mills and are of considerable capacity. Invoicing of the
property was begun Thursday. Just what the Kniselys will do in the future, they
have not decided. For the present they will load and ship the sawed lumber that
is their portion.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 13, 1906]
KOCH, RICHARD E. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Richard E. Koch)
KOCHENDERFER, CHARLEY [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Academy of Music
KODAK GALLERY CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] NEW GALLERY. Photos just like finding them. On or about Nov. 1st we will
open a new photograph gallery on the Mrs. Mann lot, next to Ed Zook's, when we
will make photographs at lower prices than you ever heard of. - - - - THE KODAK
GALLERY CO.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 6, 1893]
KOFFEL, A. E. [Liberty Township]
BIOGRAPHY
A. E. Kiffel was born east of Rochester, Indiana, in 1858, the son of Daniel and
Mary Ann (Hoover) Koffel. His paternal grandparents, Henry and Eliza (Halpooner)
Koffel, were natives of Pennsylvania, the father of the former having come from
Germany with six brothers to settlethere. Henry Koffel and his wife settled in
Wabash county, Indiana, and were pioneer farmers of that section where their old
home still stands. They had twelve children the last of whom died in 1920 at the
age of ninety years. He died in the county of his adoption and is buried in the
Nichols cemetery [Kosciusko County, Indiana] and his wife passed away in
Kosciusko county, being buried in the Squrrel Creek cemetery. Henry and Sarah
(Curtis) Hoover, the maternal grandparents of our subject, were natives of
Tippecanoe county, Indiana, and Miami county, Ohio, respectively. In 1836 they
settled in Fulton county near the present town of Athens, which was founded by
his sons Jacob and Alonzo. They were one of the first families to settle in that
section, and for this reason when Henry township was created, it ws named in
honor of Henry Hoover. He acquired much land in that part of the county through
his untiring industry. He and his wife are buried at Mt. Hope. Daniel Koffel was
born in 1828 and received his education in the pioneer schools of Wabash county.
He later removed to Kosciusko county and in 1849 took up his residence in Fulton
county, working on the farm of William Rannels east of Athens. Sometime
afterward he purchased a farm of eighty acres in that same vicinity and at such
an early day he was forced to clear the timber from the land and to make all of
the necessary improvements. His wife inherited eighty acres from her father's
estate. He died here in 1900, his wife passing away in 1892. He had six children
as follows: Sarah Jane; William, who died in infancy; J. F.; Emma, deceased; A.
E., the subject of this sketch; and Scott, deceased. A. E. Koffel received his
education in the public schools of Athens and then followed the pursuits of
agriculture in his home community until the fall of 1881, at which time he
removed to his present farm of one hundred and twenty-one acres in Liberty
township. He cleared and ditched the land and has placed on it all of the
improvements that make it one of the best farms in the township. Although
strictly speaking he engages in general farming, he nevertheless devotes
considerable attention to stock-raising in which field he has proven very
successful. On November 6, 1881, he was united in marriage to Ella Pence, the
daughter of John Pence, a prominent pioneer of Fulton county. To Mr. and Mrs.
Koffel five children have been born: Roy, Maude, Alfred, Sylvia, and Edna. He
and his wife accept the tenets of the United Brethren religion and are devout
members of the church at Fulton.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 228-229, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
KOFRON, JACK G. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Jack Kofron)
KONDOR SUPER FOOD MARKET [Rochester, Indiana]
RECEIVER SELLS STORES AT BOURBON AND FULTON
Boyd Peterson, who was named receiver of the three stores operated by Cloud
& Sons in Bourbon, Fulton and Rochester, announced today that he had sold
the stores at Fulton and Bourbon.
Ray Babcock who operates a grocery store at Fulton bought the stock of groceries
in the Fulton store and A. Stewart of Chicago the dry goods.
John Molebash andJames Shere purchased the grocery and meat department of the
Bourbon store. The purchasers formerly operated the store at Bourbon and sold to
the Clouds.
Mr. Peterson is seeking a buyer for the stock of linoleum and other goods
carried in the Bourbon store. The Rocheste store was sold to R. Kondor, South
Bend, who had the formal opening of the establishment today.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 9, 1938]
KONDOR SUPER FOOD MARKET OPENS SATURDAY
R. Kondor of South Bend, will open a new Super Food Mart Saturday in the old
Cloud location opposite the Char-Bell theatre. The store has been rearranged and
redecorated.
"Everything has been done to make shopping easy, economical and
convenient," Mr. Kondor said. "Finest foods from finest markets will
be stocked. A spacious meat department will carry a full line of finest fresh
and smoked meats and our attractive produce department will feature freshest of
seasonable fruits and vegetables," he added.
George Smith will manage the grocery department. Many former employees of the
Cloud store will greet old customers at the new store. Among the clerks will be
Doris Slonaker, Mrs. Hatfield, Kenneth Tabler, Fred Perschbacher, Harrison
Halderman, Lewis Alspach, Manford Newell and W. S. Coon. Mrs. Kondor will assist
in the store.
Mr. Kondor operates two markets in South bend, one at 2300 Lincolnway west and
one at 1613 Miami St.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, July 8, 1938]
KOONTZ, J. H. [Culver, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
KOPP, DANIEL [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
John Hudkins, junior partner of the firm of Hudkins & Son, monument dealers,
bought the Daniel Kopp restaurant and confectionery. John took immediate
possession and retains Sam Metzger as assistant.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 8, 1907]
KOSANKI DAIRY [Akron, Indiana]
Located one block E SR-19 N side of Erie Railroad.
It was in business in 1926.
KRALIS, DAN, MRS. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
KRALIS BROS. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Before Selling Your Poultry, Eggs and Veal get in touch with us. Phone 10
or 11. KRALIS BROTHERS, East Fourth Street, Rochester, Ind.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 31, 1930]
[Adv] Mr. Farmer. We are located permanently at 216 East 7th Street. We have
been in the business 12 years selling direct and not through a commission house,
therefore we can afford to pay top prices. Please call us before selling. We
quote prices over the telephone. Phone No. 51. Open Saturday nights until 9:00.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, June 27, 1930]
[Adv] [formerly at 114 West 9th Street] KRALIS BROS. Now Located at 330 North
Main Street [Rochester]. [see Van Meter & Moore adv.]
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, December 11, 1935]
KRAMER, CHESTER [Rochester, Indiana]
TO OPEN NEW MARKET
Mr. and Mrs. Chester Kramer, of Huntington, have announced the opening of a new
meat market in the room formerly operated by the Babcock market, on North Main
street. Mr. Kramer, an experienced meat cutter, is a brother of Ed Karame, owner
of the Peoples' cafe.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 9, 1945]
KRAMER BUTCHER SHOP, JAKE [Kewanna, Indiana]
KRANING, MAX E. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letter (Letter From Max E. Kraning)
See: Service Men, World War II, Letter (Second Letter From Max E. Kraning)
KRATHWOHL, ROBERT [Rochester, Indiana]
ROBERT KRATHWOHL LOSES HIS FINGER TIP IN PLANER
Robert Krathwohl, a member of the Zebra basketball squad and one of Coach
Powell's best defensive players, suffered an accident Friday afternoon that not
only kept him out of last night's affair at North Manchester, and tonight's
game, but may also deprive him of entering the regional. Krathwohl suffered the
loss of about one-eighth of the middle finger on his left hand.
The youth was working in the manual training room at the local high, operating a
power planer. Krathwohl had neglected placing the guard of this machine in its
proper position with the result that considerable portion of the above mentioned
finger was torn completely off by the revolving keen edge blades of the machine.
The lad was rendered surgical aid immediately and was said to have suffered but
little pain from his unfortunate experience.
The attending physician said it would be several days before Krathwohl could
attempt to use the injured hand. However Coach Powell stated he would have this
valuable member of the Zebra outfit certified with State A. A. Secretary Trester
for participation in the coming regional tournament.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, February 19, 1927]
KRATZER, B. F. [Rochester, Indiana]
Kratzer, The Jeweler. If you are looking for a place to Buy Christmas Presents.
- - - Repair work a specialty. B. F. KRATZER, The Jeweler.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, December 9, 1903]
[Adv] Jewelry at Cost. B. F. KRATZER THE JEWELER will sell out his entire
line of Clocks, Watches and Jewelry at Cost. - - - in with Skinner's Book Store.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, December 7, 1906]
KRAUSE, CHAS. H. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Academy of Music BILLIARD and SAMPLE ROOM, Chas. H. KRAUSE, Proprietor.
Successor to F. W. Bosenberg.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 13, 1892]
KREAMER, RALPH [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Ralph Kreamer)
KREIGHBAUM, WILLIAM P. [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Wiliam P. Kreighbaum is a native of Stark County, Ohio, born August 17, 1840. He
came with his parents to this county in 1843, and located in Henry Township,
where he spent his childhood and youth in a similar way to most of farmer boys.
He received an ordinary education in the common schools. Upon the breaking-out
of the wr of the rebellion, in 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Forty-sixth
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which regiment he participated in many hotly
contested battles, among which were the following: New Madrid, Island No. 10,
St. Charles, Ark., Fort Pillow, Port Gibson, Siege of Vicksburg, Champion Hill,
Jackson, Miss., Sabine Cross Roads, La., and many other lesser battles. At
Sabine Cross Roads, he was captured, and retained in rebel prison pens eight
months--five months at Camp Tyler, Tex., and balance of time at Camp Groce, 200
miles west of Tyler. At the expirtion of this time, he was paroled, and returned
home. However, an exchange was soon effected, and Mr. K. returned to the field,
having re-enlisted as a veteran. At the close of the war, he returned to his
home, with an established reputation as a faithful and brave soldier. He at once
served an apprenticeship at harness-making, and established himself in that
business, since which time he has carried it on successfully at Akroh. Mr.
Kreighaum was united in matrimony with Mary Elizabeth Vanatta Decemvber 3, 1867.
To them have been born two children--Pearl and William Frederick. His father,
William Kreighaum, was born in Pennsylvania June 8, 1810, and was united in
marriage to Miss Mary Markel, of the same State. They were pioneers in Henry
Township, locating there in 1843, where they endured many of the privations
incident to pioneer life. They died some years since, leaving a record of honest
industry and integrity.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 39]
KREIGLE, JOHN [Rochester, Indiana]
VETERAN CITY EMPLOYEE DIED EARLY THURSDAY
John Kreigle, aged 91, for over fifty years the street commissioner of
Rochester, died at his apartment in the city building at 110-1/2 East Seventh
Street, at 3 o'clock Thursday morning. Death was due to general senility and
followed an illness of five years.
The deceased, who was known by his many friends as "Dutch John"
Kreigle, because of his strong German accent, was well known in this city and
surrounding territory. He was born in Hanover, Germany on July 3, 1844, and was
the son of Louis and Mary (Rearst) Kreigle.
Mr. Kreigle came to this country from Germany in the spring of 1862. He went to
the home of an uncle, Louis Kreigle in Napoleon Ohio, where he lived until the
spring of 1866, when he started out to make his way in the new world.
Mr. Kreigle worked his way on Maumee and Wabash canal boats from Napoleon to
Logansport. While there, he heard of Rochester and came to this city on a stage
coach. He accepted employment in this city with Newton Rannells, proprietor of
the Central Hotel.
The deceased worked for Mr. Rannells for a number of years. One event in his
life that impressed Kreigle, occurred while he was an employee of Mr. Rannells.
The two men went to New York City, where they attended the funeral services of
General U. S. Grant in July, 1885.
Some fifty years ago, Mr. Kreigle accepted employment from the town board at
that time, as street commissioner. He continued to serve in the same position
through every town board and city council since that time, because of the
faithful manner in which he performed his duties. He continued to serve until
four years ago, when his physical condition became such that he could not
perform such hard labor.
Mr. Kreigle was then named custodian of the city park, and was given a pension
by the city and living quarters in the city building on East Seventh Street,
where he continued to reside until the time of his death.
The deceased was three times married, each of his wives preceding him in death.
He has no immediate relatives in America. He was a member of the Lutheran
Church, having affiliated with that denomination in his birthplace.
The funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Val
Zimmerman Funeral Apartment with the Rev. W. J. Schroer, pastor of the St.
John's Lutheran Church, officiating. Interment will be made in the Odd Fellows
Cemetery in a lot which Mr. Kreigle purchased a number of years ago.
The city plans to honor Mr. Kreigle in death as they did in active life. Mayor
James Babcock and the members of the city council, Russell Parker, Ray Myers,
Gene Coplen, Dean Neff and Clarence Hill, will serve as pallbearers and all
other city employees will attend the services in a body. This honor is being
bestowed on Mr. Kreigle because he always spoke with pride of his long service
as an employee of Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, April 30, 1936]
KRIEG, ALLEN [Perry Township, Miami County]
BIOGRAPHY
Allen Krieg, one of the largest and most extensive farmers in Perry Township,
was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, September 29, 1817, the son of John
and Sarah (Gouers) Krieg, who were also natives of Pennsylvania, from whence
they removed to Ohio in 1837, and after a residence there of nine years'
duration, came on to Indiana and Miami County, where they lived until their
death, the mother dying in 1861, and the father in 1872. Our subject was reared
in his native State, receiving a limited education. He accompanied his parents
to Ohio and learned the carpenter's trade there, at which he continued to work
until 1855, when he followed his parents to Miami County and purchased a farm,
and has since that time made farming his principal occupation, being very
successful, owning about 988 acres of improved land, all the fruits of his own
industry and economy. October 3, 1841, Catherine Wyerbach became his wife. As a
result of this union five children were born, these four now living: Elizabeth,
wife of Samuel Zimmerman; Sarah, now Mrs. Jacob Mohler; William, who married Eda
Shoemaker, and Enos. August 22, 1877, he suffered the bereavement of losing his
beloved wife. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a Republican in
politics.
[History of Miami County, Indiana, 1887, Brant & Fuller. p. 731]
KRIEGHBAUM, CHARLES [Rochester, Indiana]
See; Char Bell Theatre.
See: Hotels - Fairview
See: Hotels - West Side
See Times Theatre
__________
E. R. LICHTENWALTER BUYS LIQUOR STORE
E. R. Lichtenwalter, manager of the Manitou Liquor Store, today announced
purchase of the store from Charles Krieghbaum.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 24, 1939]
KRIEGHBAUM, H. Lisle [Rochester, Indiana]
See Char Bell Theatre.
See Times Theatre
__________
MOVIE STAR HERE
James Pierce, of Hollywood, California, who played the role of Tarzan in the
series of pictures heading that caption, stopped off in Rochester for a brief
visit today with Lisle Krieghbaum. Pierce and Krieghbaum were fraternity
brothers at I.U. several years ago. The actor was enroute to the home of his
people at Fremont, Ind.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, August 23, 1928]
KRIEGHBAUM, "PAT" [Rochester, Indiana]
"PAT" KRIEGHBAUM HAD PICTURE TAKEN WITH ERNIE PYLE
In Thursday's edition of the South Bend Tribune a picture of Ernie Pyle and
"Pat" Krieghbaum of Rochester was featured. The "underlines"
were as follows:
"During Ernie Pyle's last visit to Indiana last November, he visited his
father and Aunt Mary at Dana, Ind., and spent a few hours at Indiana university,
Bloomington, where he rceived an honorary degree of humane letters from the
university at which he spent three years. While on the campus Ernie visited the
Indiana Daily Student office. He is pictured here behind the copy desk of the
first and only newspaper of which he was editor-in-chief. With him is Pat
Krieghbaum, of Rochester, Ind., a member of the editorial staff of the
paper."
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 21, 1945]
KRIEGHBAUM HARNESS SHOP [Akron, Indiana]
AKRON HARNESS SHOP
I desire to inform the citizens of Akron, Henry township and surrounding
country, that I have bought the Freeman Harness shop at Akron and have a full
and complete stock of all goods in my line of trade. I have harness of every
kind and will sell the same upon the most reasonable terms. Repairing done
neatly, promptly and satisfactorily. Call and see me. WM. KRIEGHBAUM.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 1, 1884]
KROGER GROCERY STORE [Akron, Indiana]
See: Akron, Indiana
KROGER STORE IN AKRON
Akron will have a Kroger store about the first of January it was announced in
Akron this week after the large chain store grocery concern had leased the room
in the Akron State Bank building now occupied by the Akron Social Club.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, December 15, 1928]
AKRON KROGER STORE HAS A NEW MANAGER
Tuesday evening a change was made at the Kroger Grocery Co. store in Akron.
Robert T. Barnes, manager, was transferred to the Plymouth Kroger store as
manager. Mont Denney of South Whitley, who has been manager of the Kroger store
there for the past year and a half, was transferred to the Akron store.
Mr. and Mrs. Barnes and two sons will move to Plymouth as soon as they can get a
suitable house. They came to Akron from Wabash two and one-half years ago.
Mr. Denney is driving to Akron each day from South Whitley but will move to
Akron with his wife and two small daughters as soon as a house becomes
available. He has been a Kroger manager for 10 years, having been at Bourbon
before he went to South Whitley.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, August 23, 1945
KROGER GROCERY STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located in Rochester Plaza.
__________
KROGER COMPANY LEASES ROOM HERE FOR NEW STORE
An announcement was made this morning by officials of Kroger and Company of
Cincinnati, Ohio, operators of one of the largest chains of groceries and meat
markets in the United States that they had taken a long time lease on the room
at 731 Main street owned by A. P. COPELAND and that they would open a branch
store in this city. The store is to be operated on the cash and carry basis.
The room which the Kroger store will occupy is now being remodeled by Mr.
Copeland. A new front is to be built and a new hardwood floor laid. Some new
plumbing is to be placed in the building. The Kroger Company will install their
own fixtures and shelves. It is planned to have the new store in operation on
November 15th.
Kroger and Company maintain a branch depot in Fort Wayne where they also have a
bakery. Meats and groceries to be used in the local store will be brought to
this city by truck from Fort Wayne while the bakery goods will be shipped to
this city each day by express.
The Kroger Company operates a number of stores in surrounding cities, namely
Peru, Logansport, Wabash, Huntington, South Bend and Warsaw. It is said they
intend to open stores in several other cities nearby. The Kroger Company last
week purchased over 300 stores operated in southern states by Piggly-Wiggly.
The coming of the Kroger Company to this city marks the second chain grocery and
meat market to be opened here, the Atlantic and Pacific Company having
maintained a store here for several years. It is said the National Tea Company
also a chain grocery store concern will open a branch here as they now have a
truck line through this city.
It is said that other lines of business besides the groceries and the meat
markets in this city will in a short time have to face competition from chain
stores. The Penney Company which deals in dry goods and ladies furnishings has
tried on several occasions to lease rooms in this city. Likewise Woolworth and
Kresges who own five and ten cent stores and Sears and Roebuck and Montgomery
Ward the mail order houses.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, October 18, 1928]
NEW KROGER STORE WILL OPEN HERE ON SATURDAY
The Kroger Grocery and Baking Company is opening to the public here Saturday
morning their first retail store in this community. The store will be located in
the Copeland building at the [NE] corner of Main and Eighth streets in the room
formerly occupied by the Louderback Sales Room. The store will be in charge of
Harold Remy formerly of Warsaw an experienced Kroger man who is now located here
permanently.
The warehouse and service department of the Kroger Company are located at Fort
Wayne from which branch one hundred and twenty stores are now being operated one
of them being the local one. The company deals in a complete line of meats,
fruits, vegetables, baked goods and staple groceries. The goods to be used in
the local store will be in the main trucked here from Fort Wayne.
All bakery goods will be shipped by express each day from the company's modern
bakery, one of the largest in the middle west, which is also located in Fort
Wayne. All meats handled are government inspected. The groceries carried in
stock are both Kroger brands and nationally advertised articles. The Kroger
Company's initial add here appears in another section of the News-Sentinel.
The Kroger Grocery and Baking Company maintains their home office in Cincinnati,
Ohio. The company was organized about 40 years ago and at the present time
operates about 5000 stores in the middle west. It is one of the largest chain
store grocery concerns in the United States. The company is expanding very
rapidly and only this week purchased 12 Piggly Wiggly stores in Indianapolis and
four Piggly Wiggly stores in Fort Wayne.
The Kroger Grocery and Baking Company has taken a long lease on the Copeland
room. The room has been remodeled and prepared for a high grade grocery store
and meat market. New large refrigerators have been installed. A new store front
was also built. The Kroger store is the second chain grocery store to be
operated in this city. Other lines of business in this city it is said will
within a short time have to face similar competition.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, December 7, 1928]
ODD FELLOWS STORE ROOM TO BE READY SEPT. 15
The new Odd Fellow room at [NW corner] Main and Ninth streets with 4400 square
feet of floor space exclsive of ware rooms will be ready for occupancy by Sept.
15, an authoritative spokesman for the lodge revealed today.
The room which has been under repairs and upon which work was restricted because
of the war, will it is said, house a new super food market under a long term
lease by The Kroger Grocery & Baking Co. The market, it is believed, will
occupy the new quarters soon after the site is completed and ready for
occupancy.
Modern ware rooms for stock and storage facilities will be built at the rear of
the present building, it was said, while part of the structure which now joins
the main building on the west, will be razed and re-built.
No statement as to whether or not the present Kroger store at [NE corner] Main
and Eights streets will be continued, has as yet been available.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, August 14, 1945]
REMINISCENCES
In the corner room of the Odd Fellows Building, Fred Wilson operated a hardware
store and the location later housed the Earle Theatre, one of Rochester's
earliest movie houses where you could see a "feature" for a five-cent
piece. The Earle Theatre brought Rochester its first mechanical talking
pictures. Adjoining the theatre, Al Fristoe operated Rochester's earliest
"five and 10 cent" store in what is now the north half of the Kroger
market.
To the north of what is now Krogers and prior to the time mentioned heretofore,
a big frame structure was occupied by a barber shop owned by big Roy Myers who
played the tuba in the Rochester Citizen's Band. Later the present business
rooms were constructed and Stanton & Sterner opened a book store to be
succeeded by George Ross and currently operated by Eb Lichtenwalter.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 14, 1958]
KRUWELL, JOHN D., REV. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Churches - Methodist Church [Rochester, Indiana]
KUHN TAVERN [Akron, Indiana]
Tavern operatedby Andrew and Matilda Kuhn 1855-75.
In 1949 became Akron American Legion Home.
KUMLER, DON F. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Don Kumler)
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Second Letter From Don Kumler)
KUMLER, JOHN J. [Wayne Township]
BIOGRAPHY
John J. Kumler, the present treasurer of Fulton county, is an esteemed citizen
and prosperous farmer. He was a soldier in the civil war. He enlisted as a
private in company K, Seventeenth Ohio regiment, Sept. 4, 1861. He was promoted
in May, 1864, to corporal, and as such was discharged July 21, 1865. He
participated in all of the battles of the army of the Cumberland, was in the
Atlanta campaign, and was wounded at Missionary Ridge Nov. 25, 1863. He went
into the army a democrat in politics, but came out a republican. He served one
term as trustee of Wayne township, Fulton county, making an acceptable officer.
In 1894 the republican party nominated him as its candidate for county
treasurer, to which office he was elected in November of that year, and of which
office he is the present acceptable incumbent. Mr. Kumler was born in Fairfield
county, Ohio, Jan. 14, 1840. His parents were Henry and Leah (Meinhart) Kumler.
They were of German ancestry. Henry Kumler was a son of Henry Kumler, who was
born in Germany. Mr. Kumler's parents were married in Ohio. They settled in
Fairfield county, that state, where the mother died in 1844, when Mr. Kumler was
but three and a half years old. She left one other child, a son, Noah Kumler, of
Fairfield county, Ohio. The father subsequently married a second time, and
became the father of several children. He followed farming, and lived many years
in Fairfield county, where he died in 1884, at the age of seventy-seven years.
His son, whose name introduces this brief mention, was brought up to farming and
has followed the same throughout his career. He gained a limited education,
having attended school just fifty-two and a half days. When the civil war came
on he was a farm hand, working for eleven and one-half dollars per month. He
came to Indiana in 1865, and settled in Fulton county, where he has since
continued to reside. In the same year he married Almedia Urbin, a native of his
own county. Mr. and Mrs. Kumler have had fourteen children of which five are
dead. They are members of the U. B. church. Mr. Kumler is a member of Bennett
post, No. 183, G.A.R. He has been very successful as a farmer, and is widely and
favorably known. His farm residence is in Wayne township.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 98-99]
KUMLER, ROY [Kewanna, Indiana]
HELPING MR. RIPLEY
Believe it or not but Ripley received some assistance this week from Roy Kumler
of Kewanna, who furnished him this problem, and it's a strange one at that but
nevertheless true. "A chimney with a 4x8 vent takes five bricks per course,
but by adding only one more brick the area of the vent is doubled." The
problem was published in many newspapers throughout the U. S. this week.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 15, 1935]
KUMLER FURNITURE & UNDERTAKING [Kewanna, Indiana]
KUMLER BUYS LAMBORN BUSINESS IN KEWANNA
H. B. Kumler, former county treasurer, has purchased the Frank Lamborn furniture
and undertaking business at Kewanna, according to announcement made Monday
morning. The Rochester man who will move his family to Kewanna in the near
future, plans to take possession of the business shortly after the first of
February. The stock is to be invoiced the latter part of this month. T. L.
Harrison, now connected with the business as undertaking, will be associated
with Mr. Kumler. Mr. Lamborn, who has been one of Kewanna's prominent merchants
for a number of years, plans to move to California.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 14, 1924]
KYGER, G. L., MRS. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Miniature Dress Shoppe
FULTON COUNTY, INDIANA
HANDBOOK
L
L. E. & W. RESTAURANT [Rochester, Indiana]
See Nickle Plate Restaurant
See Ray's Eat Shoppe
__________
[Adv] - Fried Turtle will be served at the L. E. W. Restaurant Tuesday
evening, Wednesday noon and evening. Those who are fond of this delicious meat
are certain to be more than pleased with our extra special menu. Ray Myers, East
8th St.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, June 23, 1925]
[Adv] Lake Visitors. You will really miss the real treat of your vacation
while at Rochester, unless you dine at the L. E. & W. RESTAURANT, (Opposite
Nickel Plate Depot) - - - Turtle, Fried Chicken, Fish, etc. Home baked pies and
pastries. Phone 188 for any information concerning our special dinners. RAY
MYERS, 324 East Eighth, Rochester, Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 1, 1925]
L LAKE [Henry Township]
Located approximately 1075E and 300S.
LACKEY, JACOB L. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Jacob L. Lackey, farmer, P.O. Rochester, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio,
Novemvber 9, 1830. He is the son of Alexander and Osee B. (Enyart) Lackey, who
were also natives of the above county and state. The former was born February 5,
1800, and the latter May 20, 1803. The subject of our sketch became a resident
of this county in 1840. He has, with the exception of six years spent in the
coopering business at Rochester, been engaged in farming. He was married, March
10, 1868, to Caroline Van Trump, who was born in Virginia January 29, 1843. She
was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Moore) Van Trump. This union was blessed
with one child--Homer, who was born December 28, 1868. Mrs. Lackey died January
27, 1872. Mr. Lackey was again married April 3, 1879, to Melissa J. Thresh, who
was born in Cass County, Ind., Ocober 9, 1843. She is the daughter of James and
Lodeema (Metzger) Thresh. The result of this union has been one child, viz.:
John, who was born June 5, 1880. Mr. Lackey resides in Section 36, and is an
enterprising, highly-respected citizen.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 29]
LADIES' MOUNT VERNON ASSOCIATION [Fulton County]
Mrs. A. F. Smith, of this place, has been appointed by the Vice-Regent,
Treasurer of the Ladies' Mount Vernon Association, for this county. . .
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, June 28, 1860]
LADY PATCH [Fulton County]
Yearling colt, owned by Oliver Morton Powell, which set record on Friday,
October 10, 1924, recognized by American Trotting Association of 2:18 1/4 for a
mile on half-mile track at Rochester, Indiana
See Powell, Oliver Morton
LAKE BRUCE
See: Showley Park
See: Bruce Lake Dam
See: Bruce Lake Station
__________
CANNING FACTORY
Lake Bruce, a thriving little village on the south banks of Bruce lake, six
miles south of Monterey, is to have a CANNING FACTORY. A meeting was held by
stock holders at the SHOWLEY HOTEL, recently, presided over by E. S. REES of
Winamac, and all plans formulated and a complete organization effected.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 13, 1913]
MEET AT KEWANNA
A meeting of officials of the Plymouth Electric Light & Power Co. with
property owners of Lake Bruce and vicinity was held in Kewanna Saturday, to
discuss the possibility of providing electric lights at Lake Bruce.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 27, 1923]
JORDAN AND BAIRD ELEVATOR RAZED AT EARLY HOUR TODAY
The first fire of importance ever at Lake Bruce totally destroyed the Jordan and
Baird elevator on the north side of the town, just north of the Chesapeake and
Ohio railroad tracks, at 3 a.m. Saturday morning at a loss estimated at $15,000.
In addition to the building, 500 bushels of oats and large quantities of feed
and fertilizer were consumed by the flames. The origin of the blaze is
undetermined.
The fire was discovered by George Compton, a trucker. Help was summoned from
Kewanna, but the force of men which came from that town arrived too late as the
fire, when discovered, had gained too great a headway to be stopped.
Bruce Lake has no fire fighting equipment, and the big building, owned by L. H.
Jordan of Chicago and S. Baird of Kewanna, burned to the ground within a half an
hour. Flames, however, driven by a wind from the west, were kept from the
Charles Showley home, and only the Al Shine cottage, other than the elevator,
became ignited. The Shine blaze was put out quickly.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, March 28, 1925]
LAKE BRUCE ASSOCIATION [Lake Bruce, Indiana]
LAKE BRUCE ASSOCIATION HAS ELECTED DIRECTORS
The members of the Lake Bruce Association, Incorporated, have elected the
following directors, Fred H. Gillespie, Indianapolis; Charles Guendling, Peru;
Carl Hart, Kokomo; John Dellinger, Kewanna; Henry M. Melton, Logansport, and
Ross Lowe, Logansport.
Also the following officers: John Dellinger, Kewanna, president; Glenn R. Goeke,
Indianapolis, secretary and treasurer, and Lester C. Moris, Indianapolis,
attorney.
The association has a hundred or more members, consisting of farmers, cottage
owners and persons interested in the welfare of Lake Bruce.
The main purpose for the organization of the association is an effort to
maintain the level of Lake Bruce which has been seriously threatened by a break
in the dam at the outlet of the lake. Repairs have been made to the dam. The
level of the lake was lowered 18 inches at one time.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, February 12, 1938]
NEW DAM TO BE BUILT SOON AT LAKE BRUCE
John Dellinger, president of the Lake Bruce Protective Association has received
word from the Indiana State Department of Conservation that necessary repairs
will be made in the dam at the outlet of Lake Bruce to insure the dam's
permanency. Several weeks ago the dam was undermined by the waters of the lake.
The Pulaski county board of commissioners signified their intentions Tuesday to
make the needed temporary repairs to the dam the work to start immediately. This
work will be allowed to remain until fall at which time a new dam will be
constructed.
The new dam will have a larger spillway than the present dam and it will be so
built that it will retain the waters of Lake Bruce at the same level as the old
dam. After the water had seeped under the dam the lake's level was lowered 18
inches.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 18, 1938]
LAKE BRUCE CONSERVATION CLUB [Lake Bruce, Indiana]
CLUB BUILDS PONDS
The Lake Bruce Conservation club has leased a plot of land at the east end of
the lake and on the same are constructing two hatchery ponds each 80 feet wide
and 200 feet long. In one bluegills will be reared and in the other large mouth
bass. Clarence-inch well drilled by Ed Brooker of Lake Bruce. The Lake Bruce
Conservation club is conducting a membership drive and now have over 100
members. John A. Barnett is the president of the club.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 1, 1941]
LAKE BRUCE GARAGE [Bruce Lake Station]
LAKE BRUCE GARAGE WAS ROBBED THURSDAY NIGHT
The Lake Bruce garage, located at Bruce Lake Station and owned by Lloyd Overmyer,
was entered sometime Thursday night and $13 in money removed from the money box,
which was in a drawer in a book case in the office of the garage.
Entrance was gained by the robbers using a skeleton key. Sheriff Carr, who was
called to invesigate the robbery, believes, as does Mr. Overmyer, that the job
was committed by some one familiar with the garage.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 9, 1925]
LAKE ERIE RESTAURANT [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Otto Dillinger, the Lake Erie restaurant man, says he can serve some of the
finest meals in the country, in fact he got up some yesterday that came pretty
high. William Parker and his men who are painting the stand pipe, ate their
dinner yesterday where they were working one hundred and twenty feet above the
ground. They did not have time to come down as it takes an hour to make the
round trip, so they had Dillinger send their dinners up.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, April 30, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Otto Dillinger is storing his household goods, and is completing a deal to
dispose of his Lake Erie restaurant.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, September 9, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Lake Erie restaurant is being re-opened and Mrs. Verna Metz, the former
proprietor, will be in charge. The Izzard cigar factory that has occupied the
room has been moved upstairs in the same building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 1, 1912]
RESTAURANT CHANGED HANDS
The Lake Erie restaurant, which has changed hands quite often in the past few
days, took another change Monday when Fred E. Robbins, who several days ago
bought the place of Newton Izzard, sold out to Stilla Bailey. Mr. Bailey in turn
disposed of the restaurant to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lowman, who are now in full
possession. Mr. Robbins expected to operate the place when he purchased it, but
family troubles interfered with his plans and he gave it up.
The new proprietors are well-known residents of the city and it is predicted
that they will make a success of the business, which has not been in a truly
flourishing condition for some time. Mrs. Lowman has severed her connection with
the M. Wile & Sons' store, where she had been employed for the past year and
will devote her time to the business. Her unexcelled abilities as a cateress are
already well known and it is expected that her regular meals and special dinners
will prove quite a drawing card.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 19, 1912]
[Adv} I Wish to Announce That I have purchased the Lake Erie Restaurant and
that it is my intention to accord the public high class, painstaking service
with the best food the market affords. A cordial welcome to all. Ray Myers.
[Rochester Sentinal, Wednesday, August 15, 1923]
RAY MYERS TO MOVE HIS RESTAURANT UPTOWN
Another business house on East Eighth street, just off Main street, was assured
Friday with the announcement by Ray Myers, proprietor of the "Lake
Erie" restaurant in the Bailey building opposite the Nickel Plate station
that he would move his equipment to the Frank Newman building opposite the
postoffice building, on December 19.
The move, contemplated for some time, was partly the result of the removal of
trains from the Nickel Plate line, and partly from Mr. Myers' desire to place
his well-established business in a better location.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, December 11, 1925]
LAKE MANITOU
See: Hotels - Fairview
See: Sibert, Alfred B.
See: Stallard, John R.
__________
NEWS OF THE DAY
George Halderman, who recently purchased a twenty-acre piece of land on the
north side of the lake, is building several buildings on the lake front and will
have a bathing beach, boats to rent, lunch room and, it is said, a beer garden.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 3, 1904]
BIG DAY AT LAKE
The Indiana Law Reporters Association will meet in annual session at the East
Side Hotel, Lake Manitou, Rochester, Indiana, on July 19th and 20th of this year
and we are requested to extend a cordial invitation to every stenographer in the
state (and out of it) to be present and enjoy the occasion.
The constitution of the I.L.R.A. provides that every person of good moral
character that can demonstrate his ability to write shorthand at the rate of 150
words per minute for five consecutive minutes is eligible to membership in the
association and the secretary urges that all such persons attend the convention
and become members. The invitation, however, is extended to all stenographers
and judges.
Lake Manitou is a beautiful spot. The lake is about three miles in length, with
wooded islands and peninsulas and lily covered bayous. The hotel at which the
convention will be held is romantically located in the woods on the shore of the
lake and is large and airy, with cunning little bed rooms, spacious dining
rooms, and large veranda facing the lake, everything new, a typical summer
resort hotel. The regular rates are $2.00 per day, but the management will make
special rates provided the attendance warrants it.
There are row boats galore, while several launches ply the lake at regular
intervals.
It is desired that all that are interested should write to Mr. J. C. Etzold, the
reporter of the Huntington Circuit Court, Huntington, Indiana, secretary of the
association, who will be pleased to furnish any information desired. Enclose a
stamped self-addressed envelope with your inquiry to insure prompt reply.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 19, 1909]
BIG NETS ARRIVE
The big nets for seining lake Manitou arrived Saturday over the Erie from
Chicago, and will be taken to the lake this week. One of the nets is 1,800 feet
long, and will be used in the deep water on the east side. Work will begin at
once, but fish will not be taken out of the lake until the latter part of the
week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 16, 1914]
TEA ROOM IS TO BE OPENED SOON AT LAKE
Miss Frederica Fox has perfected plans to operate a tea room at the lake this
summer, in the Holden cottage, formerly known as Terrapin Lodge. It will be
remembered that this location is next the first tee of the golf course and will
be of special interest to Rochester resorters and golfers.
Miss Fox plans to provide dressing and rest room for the feminine devotees of
the sport, to serve tea and luncheon and to cater to parties and club functions.
While the weather will necessarily govern the date of opening, Miss Fox expects
to be ready to serve the public ast the "Bide-a-Wee" around the latter
part of May.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 5, 1920]
NOW THEY'RE PLANNING TO USE POWER FROM DAM
A number of local businessmen, who refuse to allow their names to be made public
at the present time, have employed the services of engineers to make a full
report on the water power situation at the dam of the lake here, with the view
to utilizing the horsepower that goes to waste there almost every day of the
year.
The corporation, for a corporation will be formed if it is decided that the plan
is feasible, believes that enough electric current could be generated from a
water power turbine at the lake to furnish not only light and power for the
entire city, but sufficient current to heat every home in Rochester at a very
low rate.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 18, 1921]
RAILROAD MAGAZINE HAS ARTICLE ON LAKE MANITOU
Following is an article concerning Rochester and Lake Manitou which took up a
full page in the July issue of the New York Central Magazine. The statement in
the last paragraph on Rochester presents an ideal to live up to and a reputation
well worth meriting.
"DeClaire, a French-Indian and a member of the Pottawattomie band of Chief
Wa-We-See, had spent the afternoon fishing. As usual, his quest had not been in
vain, for in the bottom of his canoe reposed a mess of striped and spotted fish
which he knew would make a toothsome supper.
"Just as the sun was touching the horizon, he pushed his craft toward the
home camp fires, which could be seen on the western shore of the lake. As he
glanced down the patch of the diminishing shaft of golden sunshine, the
fisherman saw a log floating half submerged. He turned his canoe to avoid it. At
the noise of his paddle swirling in the quiet waters of the lake, the log
suddenly came to life and DeClaire saw it was a huge fish, by far the largest he
had ever seen, although he had fished these waters for years.
"The monster turned his gigantic head toward the canoe and blinked his
saucer-like eyes, while the Indian looked on awe-stricken. Then, in rage, the
malignant eyes suddenly became flaring balls of fire, the monster lashed his
tail and the surface of the lake, from shore to shore, rocked as if swept by a
tempest. The half-breed's canoe capsized and only by a miracle was DeClaire able
to reach shore. Not until he got to shallow water did he look back; the monsetr
had disappeared.
"DeClaire staggered into camp and quickly surrounded by the braves and
squaws, related breathlessly what he had seen. Immediately the wise man of the
band arose and in a deep voice cried:
"'It is Manitou, the Great Spirit, who is ever watching over us, so
rejoice, children, that he is near. Since he has taken the form of a giant fish
and has come up out of the depths, we will name our body of water after him.'
"Thus it was that this beautiful Lake Manitou was found and named by the
Pottawattomie, a century or more ago. The name has remained and in it the Great
Spirit still dwells, for in winter the peaceful waters are lashed into an angry
sea of choppy breakers.
"Located in the rolling lands of northern Indiana, Lake Manitou has become
one of the most attractive and popular inland summer resorts in the middle West.
It lies just a mile east of Rochester, Indiana, a thriving little city located
in the center of a rich farming district. The lake's wooded banks are dotted
with cottages and hotels and its shores are sought by thousands each summer, who
follow in the footsteps of their Indian predecessor in searching for the evasive
fish which abound within the waters. And there is a good reason for their
coming.
"The lake itself is a natural breeding ground for fish. Its extremely deep
sections and its shallow, mossy plains abound in nearly every known variety of
still watr species of the finny tribe. Of the smaller varieties, there are the
sun fish, ring-tail perch, goggle eye, crappies, blue gills, rock bass and many
others that will rise to various kinds of bait. Then there is the famous large
mouth bass, the gamest fish that swims, and another fighter, the pike, is often
pulled from beneath the surface.
"It is a poor day that the fisherman does not go home with the limit stored
in his basket. Bass up to eight pounds are caught. Residents of Lake Manitou see
to it that the fish have plenty of chance to breed and that the supply is not
exhausted.
"In early fall the ducks and mud hens make Lake Manitou a regular
"stopover." It is then the hunter comes into his own. Lake Manitou is
indeed the sportsman's paradise.
"Lake Manitou has every variety of sport and recreation to offer to the
vacationist. Four large hotels and many smaller ones assure ample hotel
accommodations. Three hundred cottages, scattered around the lake afford the
family or party, who wish to rent one, plenty of choices. The Rochester Country
Club has a nine-hole golf course and a beautiful club house on the east bank of
the lake. The golf links are open to vacationists.
'There are several public bathing beaches with all kinds of apparatus to make
water sport enjoyable. There are hundreds of new boats and plenty of public
launches.
"Three large dance pavilions stand on the shore and all have splendid
music. At Long Beach there is a new $75,000 park with all sorts of amusements
and an excellent cafeteria open at all hours.
"Rochester, with its population of 4,000, is located on the Lake Erie &
Western Railroad (Indianapolis Division), 98 miles north of Indianapoolis, 52
miles south of South Bend and 62 miles south of Michigan City.
"Those who visit Lake Manitou and Rochester find that the Great Spirit
still survives -- but it's a friendly spirit that is big and broad. Rochester
appreciates its visitors and makes it pleasant for them."
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, August 2, 1921]
ARRANGE FOR ELECTRIC SERVICE AROUND LAKE
After many months of cnsideration and bickering arrangements have finally been
completed for the installation of electric light service to residents of the
north shore of Lake Manitou, according to announcement made Saturday by the
United Putlic Service company. The deal was closed late Friday and current will
be established this spring.
The work of bringing together enough cottage owners to pay for the installation
of a transmission line was accomplished by a committee composed of Herman Coplen,
John Allison and Dr. Harley Taylor, and the cottage owners who have signed up
for the service, which will extend along the Barrett road to its end, are James
Moore, Charles Shanks, Harvey Clary, Frank Kumler, Dale Briles, Mrs. Laura
Babcock, Artie Miller, Julia and Trude Hoover, S. P. Bailey, Robert Quinn,
Charles Robertson, William Zimmerman, M. O. Enyart, Charles Talbert and Renner
and Renner.
Work of building the line is to be started as soon as the ground thaws and the
equipment reaches the city. While the line runs along the concrete road,
branches will be run in to the lake short and all year service will be
maintained.
While the line is only guaranteed as far as the end of the Barrett road, a
committee headed by Lee Moore is making an effort to get enough cottage owners
to take it on around to the East side of the lake, and it is believed this will
be accomplished.
A committe from Athens and officials of the local utility also plan to hold a
meeting next Wednesday evening when negotiations will be entered into to having
service brought as far as that town.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 11, 1922]
LAKE MANITOU'S EARLY HISTORY RECALLED BY A FEW OLD TIMERS
The story of how Lake Manitou came to be started as a summer resort is not so
generally known as might be supposed and as the number of "old timers"
grows smaller with each succeeding year it may be of interest to the present
generation to read the account of it as unfolded to a Sentinel representative by
one of the "few who are left to know."
Way back in the early seventies shortly after the last of the Pottawattomie
Indians folded their tee-pees and headed for the hunting grounds farther West,
Capt. Robert Jewell built a little house on the West Side of the lake and
conducted what was known as the West Side Hotel - - at that time little more
than a fishing lodge. This he continued to run for a few years, finally selling
the property to Capt. Wm. Skinner, father of the late Maj. A. H. Skinner, who
continued in the hotel business for a time. Later he turned it over to Maj.
Skinner who in turn sold out to the present owner, Frank Moss. The place has
been in operation a portion of every year since its original opening.
At the time of the transfer of the property to the elder Skinner, Capt. Jewell,
not willing to leave off catering to the public, built a small shack at the
point on the lake known as the Dam Landing and called it Tally's Landing. This
flourished for a time when in about 1878 Levi Mercer purchased the tract of land
just across the out-let and erected a hut for the purpose of accommodating
fishing parties.
At the time Mercer purchased this tract of land from W. J. Leiter and C. S.
Hickman there was an agreement between the parties to the contract that these
men, Leiter and Hickman, who were then owners of the Pottawattomie mills, should
invest a like sum in a steam engine and machinery with which to do their milling
thru the summer months in order to forestall the possibilities of lowering the
water in the lake, the occurrence of which would endanger the best interests of
the hotel business.
Then came a stranger, Col. Wood, a show man and amusement park promoter, who
purchased the tract from Mercer and added to the "shack" a sufficient
number of rooms to give it the high-sounding name of "hotel." In the
same year Col. Wood built what was known as "The Tabernacle" -- its
original purpose being to house meetings of an evangelistic nature, copied after
a place of the same name and nature then being conducted at Maxinkuckee Lake,
but later the same season served to house a small zoo, the property of the
Colonial.
It was about the time Columbia Park -- for that was the name given to the
enterprise -- was at its height that Reuben Tally built a little house on the
East Side of the Lake, where he purveyed to the pleasure-seeking public to the
extent of furnishing fishing tackle and bait and a few crudely built boats.
This later developed into the East Side Hotel which has undergone many changes
and has passed through numerous hands. About six years after the building of the
old East Side hotel, the Woodruff Hotel was built, about 800 feet south of it
and at that time these were the only two buildings on the now popular East Side.
The first big amusement feature introduced at the East Side was a croquet
grounds and many and hard fought were the contests among the rural habitues on
summer Sundays.
The first great attraction was the appearance of a Sioux Indian chief, who came
one Sunday and talked long and interestingly on the battle between his tribesmen
and general Custer's men.
Then came a period of lawsuits. The Pottawattomie Milling Co. had received a
grant from the government to dam the outlet and build the mill race from the
lake to Rochester which project was the cause of flooding the adjoining lowlands
whose owners protested.
The case was in the courts for years and finally settled on the grounds that it
was a government grant and could not be done away with.
Few of the present residents of Rochester remember the exact site of the old
Pottawattomie Mill. Its location was a few hundred feet south and east of where
the Erie Elevator now stands. The east end of the present Erie Elevator is built
on the spot where the first mill stood and the names of the operators of which
has passed out of the minds of our oldest inhabitants.
What a revelation it would be to the men of those days if they could be
permitted to peep in on Rochester now with its sewer system, its paved streets,
its electric lights, telephone system and the many other present day advantages!
Hon. Capt. Jewell, Levi Mercer, Col. Wood and Reuben Tally would stare should
they be permitted to step into a gasoline launch together and make the trip
around the lake and see the hundreds of cottages that have supplanted the little
shacks of their early-day construction!
What would they think of the Long Beach amusement park, the aeroplane flights
and the dancing pavilions compared to the croquet grounds of their day? With the
possibilities of the new Long Beach Hotel becoming a reality within the next six
months they might see even a greater change than at this time.
Who knows but that an even greater change than all of these may yet take place
within the lives of most of us now residing here? If th life dream of W. J.
Leiter is ever realized we will see the exemplification of the age old writing
which speaks of Mahamed and the mountain, for Mr. Leiter's dream has been to see
Lake Manitou brouht to the very door of Rochester. This he maintains can be
accomplished by constructing a dam at the point where the L. E. & W. R.R.
crosses the Mill creek.
The project would necessitate the dredging of a broad channel from the proposed
dam site to the present one and completely tearing out the old dam. This would
flood all the lowland lying lying between these two points and create a great
number of desirable cottage sites on both sides of the new lake thus formed. In
the end the present level of the lake would not be altered materially and it
would add unmeasurably to the attractiveness and desirability of Rochester and
Lake Manitou as a summer resort.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 11, 1922]
ANYBODY REMEMBER THESE OLD TIMES?
Oscar Mansfield recently dug up a letter written to him from the Manitou Park
(now Fairview) hotel under date of July 14, 1896, which contains interesting
information concerning the lake at that time. The hotel was then owned and
operated by Mark L. Killen and the stationary used contained the following
information.
On east side of Lake Manitou, near Rochester, in Fulton county, is justly famed
for its superior advantages to Outing Parties and Busy People who need rest and
recreation, those wishing to get relief from the whirl of business cares.
Manitou Park fronts the most beautiful and picturesque shore of this historic
lake, contains six acres of shady grove, has a fine lawn decorated with mounds
of flowers, and a system of water works that keeps the grass cool and green.
This resort is never without a breeze. We have a splendid bathing beach - -
bathing suits to rent. This Lake abounds with Black Bass, Rock Bass, Blue Gill
Sunfish, Perch, Catfish and it don't require an expert to catch them. Water
Lillies may be gathered by the boat load. The above cut represents the steamer,
Manitou, which makes regular trips to West Side and Columbia Park. Every room in
our house is fly and mosquito proof and a menu that cannot be excelled by any
hotel. Our rates are $7.00 per week, with Row Boars, Fishing Tackle, Ten Pin
Alley, Swings and Steamboat fares FREE! to our guests. Telephone connections
with West Side, Rochester and surrounding towns. For the accommodation of
Traveling Men the steamer will leave the city at 6:00 p.m. and return at 8:00
next morning giving 14 hours at the lake at same rates as hotels in city, land
is a good chance to spend Sunday at the Lake Resort close to nature and away
from the confusion and heat of the city. Ladies, bring your Mother Hubbards - -
live in peace and comfort - - no snobbery or "style" goes here. Any
person found "dressed up" after second day will be "ducked"
in the lake (?) For further particulars address M. L. Killen.
The letter head also contains a picture of the old hotel and the steamer
"Manitou." The contrast presented is marked by the passing of the
straw hat and overall and sunbonnet and mother hubbard garb of the vacationers
as compared to the motoring jazz dancing well groomed pleasure seeking young
people from neighboring cities that now haunt the lake during the summer season.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 23, 1922]
ARRANGE ELECTRIC SERVICE TO LAKE
The United Public Service Company has already arranged to install a transmission
line from the Colonial hotel to the end of the Barrett concrete road to furnish
electric service to cottage owners, and now plans are going forward to extend
the service on around the banks of the lake to the East side. While decision to
extend the service this far is not definite as yet, the cottage owners'
committee is now practically assured of having enough consumers to guarantee the
utility to extend the service. Work is expected to go forward as soon as
supplies are received here.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 10, 1922]
HERE ARE FIGURES ON SIZE OF LAKES
An argument that is often heard during the summer months around the local summer
resort is over the size of the various lakes in Indiana. Boastful Rochester
citizens have often claimed that Lake Manitou was the third largest body of
water in the state will be surprised to learn that there are eleven other lakes
larger than it is in the state and that four of them are more than twice as
large.
It is generally known that Wawasee is the largest and that Maxinkuckee came next
but the relative size of other lakes in northern Indiana is not so well known.
The number of acres covered by each of the fifteen bodies of water are as
follows:
1 - Wawasee, 3,826.21 acres
2 - Maxinkuckee, 1,995.00 acres
3 - James, 1,646.84 acres
4 - Bass, 1,604.39 acres
5 - Bear, 1,149.31 acres
6 - Tippecanoe, 1,125.50 acres
7 - Crooked, 902.79 acres
8 - Wolf, portion in Ind., 98,08 [sic] acres
9 - Winona, 885.24 acres
10 - Cedar, 885.17 acres
11 - Eagle, 868.30 acres
12 - Manitou, 864.06 acres
13 - Clear, 857.66 acres
14 - George, 789.70 acres
15 - Lake of the Woods, 633.32 acres
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 16, 1923]
LAKE MANITOU DEPTH REMAINS AT 49 FEET
Further information about Lake Manitou which will be of interest to those who
have visited the summer resort was given out Saturday by Prof. Wm. Tucker of
Indiana university, and his assistant, A. F. Striker, who made a detailed map of
the body of water for the State Department of Conservation.
From the Dam Landing to one-half way up the swamp to the head of the lake is
just two miles distance. The lake was generally spoken of as much longer than
this. From Long Beach to the West Side Hotel it is slightly less than one and
one-quarter miles. The deepest water found off the Fairview Hotel was 45 feet
despite predictions that they would find 85 foot depth. Further soundings were
also made between Goat Island and the Campbell Cottage but nothing over 49 feet
was found although several old timers still insisted that 90 feet was the depth.
The two experts finished their work Saturday morning after taking just five days
to complete their map of Manitou.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 4, 1924]
MANITOU INDIAN'S FARTHEST SOUTH RESORT KNOWN NEAR AND FAR
Lake Manitou, as we know it today, assumed its present shore line around the
middle of the nineteenth century when the dam was constructed at the present
site, a mile east of the courthouse, thereby flooding the prairies and combining
the original five ponds into one body of water.
The early history of Manitou reeks with Indian lore as do most of the waters of
this section of Indiana when the Pottawattomie and the Miami lurked about its
wooded shores and took from its placid waters the succulent bluegill and furry
muskrat.
Following the founding of the town of Rochester in 1836, Lake Manitou became
gradually to be the point of interest thereabout, but it was not until the
closing years of the last century that its value as a summer resort began to
receive recognition. Then several hotels were erected, including the old West
Side, destroyed a few years ago by fire; the old East Side, later Fairview and
the north side, once the home of Colonel Woods and his museum, and now Colonial.
Previous to the turn of the century only a few cottages were erected, and those
in the wooded tracts surrounding what is now Fairview, but soon after the
arrival of the new century cottages began to spring up on both the north shore
and the south points until with the close of the first quarter of the twentieth
century some three hundred summer homes had been erected and Lake Manitou had
approached the peak of popularity and blossomed forth as one of Northern
Indiana's mercurial playgrounds.
Today, it stands for recreation and amusement of the highest form. With several
good beaches and adequate water sport equipment it attracts a large number of
visitors who find recreation at its best there.
And with the era of jazz and fast-moving tempo, dancing pavilions were erected
and the very highest class of music provided, with the result that thousands of
people from every direction are regular visitors.
In addition to its recreational value to the city itself, Lake Manitou remains
unquestionably, one of the potent business assets of the community. To it, may
be credited many thousands of dollars in revenue annually, a great part of which
finds circulation in Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 6, 1934, p. 13]
AN INDIAN LEGEND
Manitou, as defined by certain lexiographers is the Indian expression or name
meaning "Great Spirit" and was applied in either instance whether the
Spirit felt the peacefulness and calm of leisure and luxury, or lashed itself
into a frenzie of hate. Thus, it may be assumed that in referring to the
beautiful lake just a mile east of the thriving little city of Rochester, the
Pottawattomie Indians of a century ago found Manitou in the calm peaceful
waters, with their gentle ripple of miniature wavelets, or when the overcast
clouds and rising winds lashed nature's mirror into a small sea of angry, choppy
breakers, indicating to him the temper of the Great Spirit and the need of
supplication or rejoicing, as the case might have been.
Early stories, handed down from the reminescences of our pioneer settlers,
recount the experience of a certain half French-Indian, DeClaire by name, a
member of We-We-See's band, who held camp on the shores of Lake Manitou a
century ago. DeClaire, a worthless sort of brave, was paddling his canoe around
the southeasterly end of what is now Big Island, between that largest of the
islands and the mouth of White Creek, between Bessmore Park and Best View. The
Indian had sought to snare the toothsome bluegills or tasty crappies that
abounded in that region and had been rewarded handsomely in his quest, when he
chanced to glance towards the setting sun of late afternoon. Directly in the
path of the diminishing shaft of golden sunshine, he saw what he supposed to be
a log floating on top of the water. Curiosity held his gaze for an instant and
during that time, the apparition changed from a huge stick of water-blackened
timber to a monster fish. The head towards DeClaire, blinked his large
saucer-like eyes, wagged his fan-shaped tail while the half-breed looked on,
awe-stricken, helpless. Then as though sricken by a blinding rage, the
saucer-shaped eyes became flaring balls of fire, the monster lashed its tail and
all Manitou rocked as under the appalling force of a tempest. DeClaire's boat
capsized as a flower before the morning frost and but for a miracle, the
French-Indian would not have survived to relate his strange adventure.
The story was never questioned by the Red Men, who held council on the shores of
this beautifullake, and lives today, a hundred years later as one of the
incidents that has gone far to keep alive the early history of Lake Manitou and
incidentally the origin of the name that has become one of the foremost of
Indiana's recreation spots and play grounds.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, December 6, 1934, p. 13]
BIG BAND ERA
They were those special years, being in the 20's, flowing through the 30's (the
Great Depression era), and spilling into the swinging 40's (the brief years
leading into World War II.) Money was scarce, but time and love more plentiful.
Youth was more carefree and absolutely enthralled with the sounds of the big
bands.
And at the heart of it all was Lake Manitou with its Fairview and Colonial
open-air dance pavilions and resort hotels.
It was an era when Fairview sprawled invitingly over 2.7 acres on the southeast
shore of the lake while its companion pavilion, Colonial, occupied 10 acres on
the north shoreline.
Harry Page was proprietor of Fairview Hotel and Gardens for 25 years
(1914-1939). He improved the popular beach spot from a two-story frame hotel,
where couples danced cheek to cheek on a side porch to the music of Hoagy
Carmichael of "Stardust" fame, to a costly resort garden where, during
busy seasons, peak crowds of 2,500 to 3,000 were not unusual.
A. C. Bradley, owner of Colonial from 1930 through 1938, transformed this north
shore lake playground and pavilion called Columbia Park from the scene of
wrestling matches, square dances and prize fights, to a music center where 4,000
fans once jammed to the rafters to hear The Ol' Maestro, Ben Bernie, and his
familiar "Yow-sah, Yow-sah, Yow-sah." Bernie, who came direct from
Chicago's Century of Progress in 1933, was the first big band to hit Colonial.
The crowd was transfixed when Bernie played his nostalgic opener, "It's a
Lonesome Old Town" and his closing "Au Revoir, Pleasant Dreams."
Countless dancers from miles around, teenagers and parents alike drove from as
far as 100 miles away, to dance or just stand and listen to some of the sweetest
and most tasteful music of all time. Couples would crowd as close to the
bandstand as they could; behind them other couples would dance happily to the
music.
Sunday afternoon at Fairview brought tea dances, 2:30 to 4:30, when once the
house band was Jimmy and Dick Cathcart's, one of the many great college bands
that sprang to fame from early training on the Indiana University campus.
There were Monday night staggs - a quarter at the gate got your hand stamped for
an evening of fun and dancing. Ten cents a dance, soda pop and beer. You
brown-bagged your facorite beverage.
And of course, an important part of the whole scene were the Karn Coffee Shop
and The Berghoff Cafe, after-the-dance stomping grounds, where boys and girls
gathered to prolong the evening's festivities and perhaps get a glimpse of some
of the members of the band who often frequented these spots after their night's
work was done. Who could forget Nig Alexander, the obliging night manager at
Karn's or Louie Ninios at the Berghoff.
Bud Dant from Indiana University played a summer engagement in the middle 30's.
He later became a musical producer with Columbia pictures.
[NOTE: Hoagy Carmichael had a college band which played at the Fairview one or
two summers, called "Carmichael's Collegians." Carmichael brought Bud
Dant to the University in the fall of '27 to run the band that replaced
Carmichael's band. In the summer of 1932, Bud Dant's Collegians played at the
Colonial, when the great Duke Ellington, who appeared at the Colonial one
week-end, heard the band and booked it "on the road" that fall. Bud
sold the band to Music Corp. of America and toured the country with Herbie Kay
and Dorothy Lamour. -- this information received by letter dated October 21,
1987, from Bud Dant to Wendell C. Tombaugh]
From Murray McCarty, Rochester attorney, comes fond memories of the late Dick
Powell, famed movie star. Powell spent a summer here as soloist with the Charlie
Davis band who had been booked by Harry Page for the summer engagement at
Fairview.
McCarty played golf with Powell on several occasions at the Counry Club golf
course. He tells how Powell, in order to sing with the Davis group, was required
to play an instrument. Murray said Powell went to Warsaw to take some banjo
lessons but couldn't learn. "He faked it all the way," said the
attorney, "and our bunch of guys gave him a real bad time of it by standing
in front of the bandstand calling for a banjo solo from Powell."
Kenny Jagger, RHS grad, played his inimitable style of piano and organ at the
Rathskeller, downstairs at Colonial. Kenny is remembered for his subtle way of
playing organ with the left hand and piano with the right. Kenny later appeared
at George's Steak House in northeast Indianapolis.
The lovely Kate Feltus, I. U. Arbutus queen, spent her summers here while the
featured vocalist with the Dick Cisne band. The Cisne group came straight from
the campus of University of Illinois. Kate stayed with an aunt and uncle in a
cottage located where the Kenneth Anness home is today. Miss Feltus later
married Robert Preston, well-known film actor. [NOTE: She appeared in a few
movies under the stage name of Katherine Craig. -WCT]
From Dave Shafer, one-time owner of Colonial and lifelong resident of Rochester,
comes nostalgic thoughts of the greatest night of all -- the night of the
"cool horns." This was the evening when the Dorsey brothers took over
the lake.
Jimmy and his hot clarinet, with Buddy Morrow on the trombone and vocalists Ray
Eberle and Helen O'Connell, had hundreds swinging at Fairview. Brother Tommy,
the "Sentimental Gentleman of Swing," held them in awe at Colonial.
Tommy's fans were charmed by his warm, silken trombone along with Edythe Wright
and Jack Leonard on vocals.
Shafer also speaks wistfully of the summer in 1950 when Xavier Cugat called
Rochester's own Miss Carol Mitchell to the stand and presented her with an
armload of red roses. This was the year that Miss Mitchell was chosen Miss
Indiana and later was first runner-up in the Miss America Contest.
And then it hapened. Some said it was destiny. It was in 1938.
That year Reggie Childs, sophisticated violinist, and his band from New York
City had completed the summer engagement at Colonial. They featured regular
broadcasts from the gardens over NBC radio.
At 4 a.m. on Oct. 25, fire struck Colonial. The hotel and pavilion were a mass
of flames in 15 minutes. The two-story building was partially destroyed. The
pavilion was a total loss. The Rathskeller received only water damage.
Three months later, on the cold and windy Sunday morning of Jan. 22, 1939,
crackling timber awakened Fairbiew caretaker Clarence Johnson at 12:30 a.m. The
resort was ablaze with flames, fanned by a 50-mile an hour northwest gale, swept
across the ice-blocked lake. Fairview burned to the ground.
In the year following the fire, Harry Page bought fire-damaged Colonial from A.
C. Bradley.
In 1947, he sold Colonial to Dave Shafer. In 1949, Maurie Coplen, Rocheser
resident, joined old friend Shafer in the business. In 1955, Dave left Rochester
to reside in California and Coplen took over ful management.
[edited excerpts from The Sentinel, Sept. 7, 1972.]
CONSIDERED COMMENT
Jack K. Overmyer
There is a tenuous local connection to the incomparable Lena Horne, who at the
age of 81 has a new compact disk of her song styles available that I recalled
here last week. As a beautiful 18-yearold in the summer of 1936 she appeared at
the Colonial Hotel on Lake Manitou as vocalist with the Noble Sissle orchestra.
She made a smashing appearance, I've been told, in red satin bell-bottomed
pajamds.
And she's not the only celebrity who performed at Manitou's dance resorts in the
1920s and 1930s, before fame claimed them. Others were Dick Powell, Marilyn
Maxwell, Dorothy Lamour and Hoagy Carmichael.
Powell became a singing star in Hollywood musicals and then moved to drama as
Richard Diamond in a series of private-eye movies. On his way up, he sang with
the Charlie Davis orchestra that spent two seasons at the Pairview Hotel on the
southeast shore.
During those summers Powell was an occasional golfing companion of the late
Rochester attorney, Murray McCarty, who remembered that Powell faked strumming a
banjo in front of the band when not singing. It was proper in those days for
every band member to play an instrument, but Powell had no such talent. This
charade, with rubber strings on the banjo, was devised.
Marilyn (actually Marvel) Maxwell of Fort Wayne was a beautiful blonde who
starred in a series of romantic films with male stars like Robert Taylor in the
1940s. She began her career as a band vocalist at the Colonial Hotel on Lake
Manitou's north shore n 1937 with the Amos Otstott orchestra. She returned here
with the Ted Weems band in 1940, two years before going to Hollywood.
Dorothy Lamour, a striking brunette, is best remembered for her wrap- around
sarong dresses and for the comedy films she made with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.
She also started out as a band singer and came to Manitou four times in the
1930s with the Herbie Kay orchestra.
Hoagy Carmichael, the Bloomington song writer and Indiana legend, brought his
band to Fairview for a summer season when just starting out in the 1920s. He
went on to become nationally famous with songs like Stardust, Georgia and
Skylark. Later he appeared in movies playing, for the most part, his own
laid-back personality.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, July 7, 1998]
ROCHESTER RESORTS DREW
TOP NAMES IN 1930s
By Pam Parmalee
For The Pharos-Tribune
ROCHESTER - The early 20th century brought about a transfiguration that put Lake
Manitou on the map as a thriving vacation resort which subsequently augmented
the growth of Rochester.
The Fairview Hotel on the southeast shore of the lake, the Colonial Hotel on the
north shore and White City Amusement Park about halfway in between, attracted
visitors from a 100-mile radius.
In addition to the usual lake attractions of swimming, boating and fishing,
open-air dance pavilions at the two hotels with music provided by top name bands
drew crowds in the mid 30s of 2,000 to 3,000 persons.
There were only five cottages on the lake when Harry Page bought the Fairview
Hotel from IkeWile in 1912.
The roads were so poor in those years that during the summer months the hotel
would send its launch twice daily across the lake to the dam landing to meet the
passengers who came in on the train.
Then the old Lake Erie and Western (L.E.&W.) Railroad started running Sunday
excursions to Lake Manitou and Michigan City and soon 15 full cars pulled into
the local station on a Sunday morning.
In 1915, Page built the first open-air dance pavilion to be erected in the
midwest outside of Chicago, and the hotel became known as the Fairview Hotel and
Gardens.
On Nov. 3, 1933, Arthur C. Bradley bought the Colonial Hotel and transformed it
into a similar mecca for the name bands, Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Ben
Bernie, who packed the house with 4,000 fans.
Marjorie Nixon, a long-time Rochester resident, went there often. "It (the
music) was wonderful," she said. "But, sometimes, there was so much
talking from people on the sidelines, you couldn't hear the music.
Ron Powell, a Fulton County native, said "It really was a fun time. There
was hardly any name band that didn't play here."
Then disaster struck. On Oct. 25, 1938, a fire damaged the Colonial Hotel and
Pavilion. Three months later, Jan. 22, 1939, the Fairview burned to the ground.
Arson was suspected in both fires, but never proved.
Harry Page purchased and rebuilt the remains of the Colonial. Dancing was still
under the stars and name bands attracted fans.
Dave Shafer, who took over the Colonial in the late 40s, said he still packed
them in with Ray Anthony and Louis Armstrong, "just to name a few."
Powell remembers Herbie Kay's band with singer Dorothy Lamour before she became
a star in the Bob Hope road movies.
In the early 40s, Powell, a drummer, with Ray DeFord on sax and Howard Amell on
organ, played at the Colonial during the week.
The King's Jesters: George Howard, Fritz Bastow and John Ravencroft, three local
musicians who got their name when they were associated with the King of Jazz,
Paul Whiteman's orchestra, made frequent appearances here during their 25 years
of broadcasring over WBBM radio in Chicago.
They became known as the "Biggest Little Band in the Midwest." Many of
the "kids" who used to come here with their parents from Logansport,
Peru and Indianapolis, drawn here by the captivating music of Jan Garber,
Lawrence Welk and others, have settled here now with their families.
Second and third generations listen to stories about dancing and easy-listening
music emanating from the trumpets, trombones and saxophones, the beat of drums
and piano in a 12 to 20-piece band at Lake Manitou, the heartbeat of Rochester
in the 1930s.
[Logansport Pharos-Tribune, Sunday, May 2, 1999]
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
My recent reminiscence here concerning the pre-World War II dancing days of the
Big Bands at Lake Manitou brought memories of another kind to a reader, Loren
Cunningham of Kewanna.
He brought to me a reminder of how the Colonial Hotel's later proprietors, Dave
Shafer and Maurice Coplen, kept Big Band Days alive for awhile in the Fifties.
Cunningham has saved a promotional card that lists 14 "name"
orchestras that appeared during the 1954 season. My research into the matter
reveals that 13 such bands had been booked in for the season before, 1953.
Howdy and I, in fact, were present for most of those 14 Big Band Nights of 1954.
They began with a one-two punch: the famous Louis Armstrong (with Jack Teagarden
and Barney Rigard) on Tuesday, June 29, and on the next night,Wednesday, June
30, came the Fabulous Dorseys. Jimmy Dorsey had broken up his own band and
rejoined brother Tommy's group as co-leader the previous year.
From then on, the bands came rapidly. Buddy Morrow played a three night stand
over the July Fourth holiday, followed in July by Les Brown, Ralph Flanagan,
Count Basie, Ralph Marterie, and The Commanders. August's lineup brought in Les
Brown once more, Tex Beneke (the former Glenn Miller sideman then fronting his
own group), Billy May and Tony Pastor. For September's closing, Pee Wee Hunt
played on the Friday of Labor Day weekend, which Ray Anthony concluded on
Monday.
Meanwhile, six nights a week the Val Eddy Trio played to their growing fan base
at the lower-level Rathskeller restaurant and bar. This popular group from
Chicago was composed of Val Eddy, banjo and bass; Homer Carlson, piano, land
Dave Lamond, guitar and vocals. The trio continued at the Colonial through 1957,
by which time most of the Big Bands had broken up and taken with them the
resort's brief postwar glories.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, June 15, 1999]
The Fairview site has since been divided into lots on which cottages stand.
The site of the Colonial has the Colonial Condominiums.
LAKE MANITOU BOATS [Lake Manitou]
The launches were operated by Billy True - the "Eagle," Captain Fuller
- "Indianapolis" and "Red Wing," others by the lake hotels
themselves like "The West Side," "Fairview," and
"Ferndale." Later Fred Kinsey built a large boat and called it
"Pastime." This was like an excursion boat and had two decks. It plied
all over the lake, mostly on sight-seeing trips for visitors. The Citizens Band
often occupied the upper deck to furnish enterdainment. The boat was powered by
a very large Olds engine of early vintage and was quite a shoe for Lake Manitou.
Some years later the engine wore out and the "Pastime was beached near the
Colonial and for a time was used as a cabin.
[Hill Family, Clarence F. Hill, Fulton Co. Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
The Steamboat. The steamer intended for Lake Manitou arrived last Tuesday. .
.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 4, 1867]
Engine. The machinery of the Lake Steamer will be here this week. Then look
out for pleasure.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 18, 1867]
[A Mr. Nye, an immediate descendant of Chief Aubbeenaubbee, and who lives on
an island in Lake Manitou] . . . has at a great expense purchased a small
steamboat that he has named Chief Aubbeenaubbee, in honor of his ancestor.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, November 7, 1867]
Sarah E. Nye. This Lady is now ready to swim Lake Manitau. Mr. Nye says she
is in good trim and ready to make regular trips. . . Tickets can be procured at
all times during the week by calling on C. J. Riddle, at the Chronicle Office.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 9, 1868]
Marine Intelligence. The propellor Sarah E. Nye, Captain Amos Nye continues
to carry pleasure seekers over the bosom of Lake Manitau every Sunday . . .
Passage may be secured in advance by applying to C. J. Riddle, ticket agent.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 14, 1868]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The new gasoline launch built by Arthur Goss was taken to the Dam landing,
Friday, afternoon, and there christened the "Merry Widow," with a very
impressive ceremony. A bottle of champaign had been taken along for the occasion
but Jim Stinson suggested that the contents of the bottle should not be wasted
over the bow of the boat, so the few who were present emptied the bottle, which
was then broken over the boat's bow. The launch was tried out and found to be
working beautifully. Later it was housed in the new boat house built by Mr. Goss
at the West Side.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 9, 1908]
TWENTY YEARS AGO
The steamer "H. C. Rockwell" on Manitau has been abandoned as
unseaworthy and will not be run this season. A larger and more commodious
steamer will be built for next season.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 29, 1909]
AN INAUGURATION
Fred Kinsey, who operates the "Pastime" launch at the lake, has
introduced a feature ride, which will be scheduled for three evenings a week.
Following the Fairview dance the orchestra and passengers are given a long ride
over the lake, with music to keep up interest all the way. Tuesday evening's
entertainment on the boat was augmented by several vocal numbers by Miss
Gertrude Jefferies, of Chicago.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 13, 1921]
BOAT GOES TO IROQUOIS RIVER
The Fairview boat, which was run on Lake Manitou for many years by owners or
managers of that popular hotel, has been sold to a corporation of White City
operators at Rensselaer, Indiana. It was put on the Tippecanoe river north of
Rochester, Wednesday afternoon, and will be floated to its final destination to
ply up and down the Iroquois river next summer.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 4, 1921]
UNUSUAL CRAFT WILL PLY WATERS OF LAKE MANITOU
Fred Kinsey, well known pleasure and passenger boat operator at the lake, will
have something new for his patrons when the season at the lake opens this year.
He now has under course of construction near his cottage on Wolf's point a large
double-decked boat that will supercede anything of its kind ever seen in this
section of the state.
The new boat is 66 x 16 feet over all and is 11 feet high. There are four
separate passenger carrying compartments, two in the after part of the boat
being 30 x 16 feet and two in the forward part 20 feet wide and tapering to a
point.
The craft is large enough to entertain at least two dancing parties with several
parties as well and at the same time would not interfere with the usual
passenger traffic.
In the very center of the boat is an engine room, where a high-powered gasoline
motor provides the motive power to a screw propellor. For its size the boat has
unusual stability in the water and at its deepest point draws but two feet of
water.
The hull framework, of seasoned oak, was set up by a ship builder in Michigan
and then the hull proper was built over the framework again here after shipment
to the lake. The ship builders, after finishing the hull, left but there is
still a force of nine workmen busy on the boat, which Kinsey says is now two
weeks ahead of his schedule.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 25, 1923]
BIG BOAT OUT
Captain Fred Kinsey's new passenger boat "Pastime," one of the largest
vessels that ever plied the waters of Lake Manitou, made its maiden trip Friday
evening. The new boat, built on the shores of the lake is a beauty and a decided
addition to the numerous attractions offered to the pleasure seekers.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 16, 1923]
PASTIME IS SOLD BY F. KINSEY TO ODEN BARGER
Fred Kinsey announced today that he had sold the "Pastime" the only
double-decked passenger boat at Lake Manitou to Oden Barger.
Mr. Kinsey for 35 years has been in the boat business at Lake Mantou. His
landing is on the south side of the lake.
Kinsey will continue in the boat business at the lake and also in the sale of
fishermen's supplies.
The Pastime which has carried many excursionists around Lake Manitou, is 66 feet
long and has a 16 foot beam. It is powered by giant gasoline motors.
Mr. Barger plans to continue to operate the Pastime in addition to a fleet of
power launches.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, February 6, 1940]
PASTIME LAUNCH FLOATED AFTER LONG EMERSION
The large double-decked motor launch "Pastime" which has been sunk in
front of the Colonial hotel pier at Lake Manitou for the past several months has
been salvaged and is being placed in running order.
The boat was purchased "as is" from Fred Kinsey by Raymond Enyart.
Enyart used a number of high-pressure auto jacks and power pumps in the
reclamation of the large craft. The losing of a propeller shaft is what caused
the boat to sink, it was stated. Mr. Enyart plans to have the launch in
operation on Lake Manitou in the near future.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, June 4, 1942]
LAKE MANITOU CAMP GRIDLEY [Lake Manitou]
[proposed site for removal of Camp Gridley, from White River north of
Indianapolis, to Lake Manitou.]
CITIZENS HEAR OF NAVAL SCHOOL - PLAN TO BRING IT HERE
. . . . . . [very lengthy article relating meeting at Rochester City Hall] . . .
. . Captain Hesler told of the purpose of Camp Gridley and the details of its
organization. He explained that it was established as a school for boys between
the ages of twelve and eighteen who could not afford to attend costly
educational institutions and that it was operated with the approval and
assistance of the United States Navy. The camp as it now exists north of
Indianapolis on White River has facilities for about 200 boys he said and could
hold no more. The river, he explained, is so small that it limits naval training
and this coupled with unsatisfactory water make it compulsory that the site be
changed and that Lake Manitou had been selected as the best adapted due to its
accessibility, while the Sinks farm location was ideal in every way for the camp
itself.
The navy department he said furnishes all the equipment, the instructors, and
the cooks. The camp costs the boy $4.75 per weeks and he can stay there for
instruction from two to ten weeks. Last year boys came to the camp from 18
states and this year the applications are already piling up. He explained the
fact that no one made money out of this camp but that this community would
profit considerably from its presence here in the sale of food, supplies and
equipment, while the boys and their parents would leave many dollars behind at
the stores and lake resorts.
Lieut. Knackle told the gathering that Camp Gridley was now six years old and
that the city of Indianapolis had spent approximately $15,000 in giving them the
site they now occupy and in making it suitable for the camp. Since they can
expand no further and the training cannot go beyond certain limits he said the
camp will be in a new location in 1929. As this is the only camp of its kind in
the United States he pridicted that the time would come when more than 1,000
boys would receive training here each summer. . . . . . .
Mr. Morgan then took the floor and explained that other communities were after
this camp with Bass Lake and Noblesville already making offers but that neither
answered the requirements laid down. He explained that the officers wanted a
minimum of ten acres bordering on the lake on the Sinks farm (this is located
almost directly across from Fairview Hotel) and would include the wooded knoll
which would make an ideal camp site. This land can be purchased he said but
afterwards it would be necessary to construct a good road into it and that
dredging would be necessary in order to get rid of the muck and vegetation that
covered the gravel and sandy bottoms there. . . . . The naval officers he said
would want an option on an additional 60 acres of land connecting with the camp
to take care of a future expansion and also give them an airport which they
would want in the near future. . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, June 2, 1928]
PARTY OF GOBS HERE
A party of members of the Indianapolis Naval Reserve Corps numbering 25 visited
the proposed site of the new Camp Gridley at Wolfe's Point, Lake Manitou this
morning. The gobs made the trip from Indianapolis to this city in large trucks.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, June 2, 1928]
WHITE CITY GROUNDS NOW BEING PREPARED FOR CAMP
Arrangements were completed Tuesday afternoon whereby the White City site will
be made suitable for the Camp Gridley sailors who will come to Lake Manitou next
Sunday for a week's stay. Workmen are now busy getting the grounds in shape and
when the 110 youngsters and their instructors arrive they will find a large,
clean camp ground with big airy frame buildings ready to house them.
Captain Burton and Lieut. Knackle, naval heads of the camp, were in Rochester
Tuesday accompanied hy two of their youthful sailor students, and after making a
number of suggestions as to changes and improvements put their O. K. on the
location and site.
They announced that their outfit will arrive on the Nickle Plate next Sunday
morning and that they will go to the camp grounds at once to get all located and
everything in shape at once. They will depart the following Sunday afternoon.
They are bringing one large sea going boat with them for use in drills and
pleasure sailing.
Charles Allen, who is operating the skating rink at White City, very generously
agreed to close his place for the week so that the entire grounds could be under
the jurisdiction of naval officers and so that outside influences would not
interfere with the schedules which are never deviated. The rink will be closed
after next Sunday afternoon and will open again the following Sunday night for
the remainder of the summer.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, July 17, 1928]
CAMP GRIDLEY TO CLOSE AT INDIANAPOLIS FRIDAY
Camp Gridley, The U. S. Naval training camp for boys, which has been permanently
located at Indianapolis and which was at Lake Manitou for a week this summer
will come to a close Friday evening and on Saturday the boys will depart for
their homes.
Information given out at the camp indicates that it will end its location at
Indianapolis and that its furure location will be at some lake in northern
Indiana. Camp officials refused to state where it might be taken but said that
they had several offers of locations, etc.
It is practically understood that the camp may not come to Lake Manitou due to
the fact there was no offer made to bring them here and that officers are
looking to other locations.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, August 23, 1928]
LAKE MANITOU COTTAGES [Lake Manitou]
Lily -
Papoose -
Medicine Lodge -
Mary Lee -
THREE LAKE COTTAGES BURNED
Fire which probably originated from the explosion of a kerosene stove completely
destroyed three lake cottages owned by Mrs. Laura Babcock, of this city, and had
gained considerable start on her fourth cottage and the adjacent garage before
the Rochester fire department, which was called to the scene of the blaze, had
it under control.
The fire broke out shortly before noon in the Lily cottage which was occupied by
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Sordelet. The blaze spread so quickly that they were
forced out of the house withoug having had time to sufficiently clothe
themselves. A strong southwest wind quickly spread the flames to the two
cottages east, the Papoose and Medicine Lodge, and before the fire fighters
could do any good these two had been razed to the ground.
Voluntary workers, however, were able to save the furniture on the ground floor
of the cottage, Medicine Lodge. The fourth cottage, also owned by Mrs. Babcock,
the Mary Lee, caught from the wind-swept flames, but the use of chemicals
extinguished this blaze before such heavy damages resulted. The garage adjacent
also caught fire, but it was checked, too, before the flames had gained
considerable headway.
Nothing at all was saved from the Papoose or the Lily. Sordelet himself was
forced to leave the burning building without shoes.
Mrs. Babcock stated Friday afternoon that it would be impossible at this time to
estimate her loss, which will be reduced by approximately $1,800 insurance
carried on her cottages.
This is the second fire of the winter at the lake. The four cottages owned by
Mrs. Babcock are located on the north shore opposite the Carrithers' farm. They
are set closely together and are not so close to other cottages further east,
which is all probably that prevented more being burned.
Mrs. Sordelet and her sister, Miss Jean Wilson, were in bed when the fire
started, and Sordelet was changing clothes after having started to prepare some
food. Mrs. Sordelet was ill and when Sordelet had helped her and Miss Wilson out
of the house he ran back in to get his belongings.
He heard his wife scream on the outside, however, and ran back to find that she
had fallen and fractured her leg. By the time he had cared for her the cottage
was a mass of flames and he failed to recover any of his property. She was taken
to the Charles Robertson home where she received medical attention.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 16, 1923]
Wyconda -
FIVE SUMMER HOMES WIPED OUT BY FIRE
One in Fall, Three Last Week and the Fifth one Burned Sunday
Five lake cottages have been destroyed by fire so far this winter, the fifth,
the Wykonda cottage on the north shore east of the Colonial hotel having been
razed to the ground at about 1 o'clock Sunday evening by fire of unknown origin.
The cottage, which was owned by J. W. RENTZ, Peru florist, who purchased it
several years ago of A. C. Davisson, was unoccupied at the time the fire broke
out, altho the theory is advanced that somebody had been about some time during
the day. If this was the case, whoever was in the cottage had no business there
according to a statement made Monday by Mr. Rentz.
The fire was discovered by Simon Bailey and other residents of the locality.
When it was first found, the blaze was small and might have been extinguished
with a chemical fire extinguisher, but before adequate assistance arrived at the
scene of the blaze the cottage was beyond saving.
None of the contents of the cottage, which were of no great value with the
exception of a new rowboat, were saved. Rents carried insurance on the house and
contents amounting to approximately $850 and estimates his loss at $1,000.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 19, 1923]
Jean -
The "Gordon Players" troupe are occupying the Jean cottage on the
north shore of the lake for a week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 18, 1923]
Bob White -
Igloo -
Yurt -
Pioneer -
Fair Harbor -
Another acting group that arrived in our midst because of the Holdens and the
Academy of Music was the Brockman family of Missouri. They included brothers
Gene and Will, their sister Lulu Mae Brockman Tuohy and her daughter, Marie.
Having discovered Rochester while performing for Holden, they retired from the
profession, bought land on the lake's southeast shore and erected a home (today
owned by Tom Guthrie) that for many years was a local landmark.
From there they operated a boat landing and boat rental, provided private
cottage care and rented five nearby summer cottages which they named Bob White,
Igloo, Yurt, Pioneer and Fair Harbor.
[Considered Comment, Jack K. Overmyer, Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, June 17,
1997]
Sunset Lodge -
[adv. - Cottage owners will find it to their advantage to consult C. H.
Sordelet, general repairing . . . . Sunset Lodge, . . . phone 137]
Iona Ford -
Harry Wanglin, of the Wanglin and Sharp Co., of Indianapolis, has rented the
"Iona Ford" cottage of C. A. Holden and will occupy it with his family
the entire season.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, February 14, 1922]
Clyde -
STEEN COTTAGE AT LAKE BURNED DOWN IN EARLY MORNING
Fire, which broke out shortly after two o'clock Saturday morning completely
destroyed "The Clyde," one of the cottage show places on the Barrett
cement road, north shore of Lake Manitou, while the owner Clyde Steen narrowly
escaped with his life, having been aroused from slumber by a friend, Frank
Alexander, of this city, who arrived at the cottage after the blaze had gained
considerable headway. The cottage, modern in every respect, was valued at
$4,000, . . . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, March 21, 1925]
Hiawatha -
Minnehaha -
Theresa Bough
'HIAWATHA,' 'MINNEHAHA' LAKE COTTAGES BURNED
Fire believed to have been of incendiary origin shortly before 12:30 a.m.
Friday, destroyed the "Hiawatha" and "Minnehaha" cottages in
Bestview Park near the Country [sic] and scorched the "Theressa Bough"
cottage.
The "Minnehaha" was a $3,000 cottage, wired and insured for nearly its
value. It had been owned by Mrs. Charles Hang of Peru, widow of the late
well-known banker of that city, who was here Sunday and who had been negotiating
with Ross Masson, of Indianapolis, for sale of the cottage. The
"Hiawatha" is owned by Byrum Brothers of Kokomo and is not wired. It
is here that the fire is thought to have started. . . . . .
The "Theresa Bough" west of the "Minnehaha" is owned by Dr.
Padgett of Indianapolis. A cottage east of the "Hiawatha" which
belongs to Oliver RHODES, also of Peru, was scorched. Its former owner was Mrs.
Elizabeth Miller of Peru, deceased.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, October 16, 1925]
Geraldine -
A large and varied collection of relics is the proud possession of R. Hiteshew,
of German ancestry, who lives in the bachelor fashion in his cottage,
"Geraldine," on the south side of the lake. An entire room in the
man's home is filled with these treasures. . . . . .
[The News-Sentinal, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, February 2, 1926]
Carter - Wolfs Point
Dew Drop Inn -
Englewood - Fox Park
Glendale -
Mar-Lew -
John Speed -
North Breeze -
Outlook - Best View Park
Hiawatha -
Minnesota -
Onyx Shades -
Secret Home - East side
Shively - North shore
Sunset Lodge -
Trails End - Wolf's Point
U and I -
Wayside -
Wayne - Fox Park
William CLINGER, 45, died Sunday morning at his home in Fort Wayne, according
to word received here. Death was caused by paralysis from which he had suffered
for the past eight months. He was very well known in Rochestr, having spent his
summers at the "Wayne" cottage in Fox Park at the lake for many years.
The widow and a daughter, Virginia [CLINGER, survive. Funeral services at Ft.
Wayne Tuesday afternoon.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 9, 1924]
Frank EMERICK of Indianapolis, who spends his vacations at his summer home,
the Onyx Shades, near the Fairview hotel, was in Peru Tuesday, where he
superintended the disinterring of the body of his uncle, the late Ensign Walter
M. CONSTANT, whose remains have lain at rest in the Mout Hope cemetery at Peru
for the past 26 years, preparatory to their shipment to Washington, D. C. where
they will be laid to rest in Arlington cemetery. . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, April 29, 1925]
Comfy Cabin -
Orion D. VAWTER, age 61, who had spent the last three summers at his cottage,
"Comfy Cabin," on Wolf's Point, died Thursday after a few days illness
at a hospital in Moberly, Mo., where he had gone to spend the winter with his
son, Clarence [VAWTER].
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, March 5, 1926]
SIX LAKE COTTAGES ON CEMENT ROAD DESTROYED BY FIRE
Fire of unknown origin shortly after 1 o'clock broke out at the U and I cottage
near the curve in the Barrett cement road on the north shore of Lake Manitou
Friday morning, and fanned by a brisk wind spread to five adjacent cottages all
six of the summer homes being leveled to the ground by the flames within two
hours. The loss of buildings and furnishings is estimated at $12,500. Some
furnishings were saved.
Daniel Slaybaugh, Akron mail carrier and pastor of the Rochester Church of God,
discovered the blaze.
Mr. Slaybaugh stated the fire was first in the northwest part of the Renner
cottage, U. and I.
Only one cottage, that owned by B. F. Fordyce, is occupied. . . . . .
The U and I cottage, owned by Uriah Renner of Wabash, is the second from the
first of the string of dwellings that were destroyed. The cottages to the east
of it were swept quickly. A shift in the wind accounts for the destruction of
the Mar-Lew cottage, to the west of the U and I.
The names, owners, value and size of the cottages which burned Friday morning
are as follows, from east to west:
Sunset Lodge, Mrs. Chloe Neerman, $1,500, six rooms and a garage. Built three
years ago.
Wayside, occupied and owned by Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Fordyce, $1,500 with $1,000
furnishng, five rooms
Dew Drop Inn, John Troutman, $1,250, four rooms.
Glendale, John Troutman, $1,400, five rooms (two stories).
U and I, Uriah Renner (Wabash), $1,500, four rooms and a garage.
Mar-Lew, Otto Slink (310 W. Third street, Peru), $1,500, six rooms . . . .
The John Speed cottage, to the east of Sunset Lodge was unscathed. . . . .
The North Breeze cottage owned by Buel Geyer, formerly The Clyde, built
originally by Clyde Steen, several times having been ignited and having been
burnt down once, was not included in today's loss. All cottages affected were to
the east of the North Breeze.
Other recent fires at the lake were last fall and several years ago. Last fall
the Hiawatha and Minnesota cottages, on the east side of the lake were destroyed
by a blaze. The earlier loss was the destruction of three cottages owned by Mrs.
Laura Babcock on the north shore.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, March 26, 1926]
Wayne - James KLINGER of Fort Wayne, owner of a large dairy and truck farm
near that city, who has spent the past 15 summers at the Wayne cottage at Lake
Manitou, which he owns, died there last Friday afternoon. Death was due to gall
stones. He underwent an operation for the trouble several weeks ago which
afforded him little relief. Mr. Klinger is survived by an adopted daughter,
Virginia [KLINGER]. The funeral was held from the residence in Fort Wayne at 2
p.m. Monday.Burial was made in Fort Wayne.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, May 11, 1926]
What-You-Call-It -
FIRE DESTROYS $5,000 LAKE COTTAGE, SUNDAY
Fire of unknown origin destroyed the lake cottage, "What-You-Call-It"
situated directly north of the Long Beach Amusement park, on the north shore
drive of Lake Manitou, some time during the early hours of Sunday morning. The
cottage belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Abe Levi, of Peru. . . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, November 29, 1926]
Oakdale - Mrs. Samuel BROWN, 56, long a summer resident at Lake Manitou, died
at her home early today following a second stroke of apoplexy. She suffered the
first stroke three and one-half years ago while at "Oakdale," the
Brown cottage at the lake, and had been ain invalid since that time.
[obit, Mrs. Samuel Brown, The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday,
February 2, 1927]
Englewood -
Mrs. William H. "Dad" COOK, 68, died at her home the Englewood Cottage
on the south shore of Lake Manitou at 6:15 p.m. Sunday after a two weeks illness
caused by flu and other complications. Mrs. Cook contracted a cold three weeks
ago which developed into the flu. . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, May 9, 1927]
George Washington -
William BALL, a resident of the south side of Lake Manitou, Saturday morning
received word of the death of George TOMLINSON, 60, which occurred Friday
evening at 7:30 o'clock at the home of his sister, Mrs. Dudley FOSTER, 934 North
Bellview place, Indianapolis. Death resulted from a cancerous infection, the
patient having been confined to his bed for the past three weeks.
Mr. Tomlinson was well known in this city, having spent the past eight summers
at the "George Washington" cottage on Wolf's Point, Lake Manitou.
Prior to the ill health which caused his retirement from active dutes the
deceased was employed on the Indianapolis police force. The funeral will be held
at the home of his sister, Mrs. Dudley Foster, Indianapolis, on Monday
afternoon.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, June 11, 1927]
FOUR COTTAGES LAID IN ASHES AT LAKE BY SUNDAY A.M. BLAZE
Mary Ann -
Brightwood -
Pontiac -
Aubbeenaubbee -
The need of adequate protection for the owners of cottages surrounding Lake
Manitou was again evident Sunday morning when four cottages located on the
southwest shore of the lake were destroyed by fire. The explosion of a gasoline
stove which was being lighted by Mrs. Edith Schurte, of Indanapolis, in the Mary
Ann Cottage shortly after 9:30 o'clock started the conflagration which in an
hour afterwards laid four cottages and their contents in a pile of smouldering
ashes.
The cottages destroyed were the Mary Ann and Brightwood, belonging to William
VanSTEENBERG, of Indianapolis. The Pontiac owned by Ray Williams of this city
and the Aubbeenaubbee, which is the property of L. L. Luckenbill, of Leiters
Ford. The Mary Ann cottage where the blaze started was on the north side of the
other three buildings and a strong north breeze soon fanned the roaring flames
to the adjacent property. . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, June 27, 1927]
Terresa Bough -
TERRESA BOUGH COTTAGE IS DAMAGED BY FLAMES
Fire discovered at 10:30 o'clock Tuesday evening damaged the Terresa Bough
cottage in Shobes Park near the Johnson Grocery on the east side of Lake Manitou
to the extent of $200. The fire was caused by an oil stove whch exploded. The
stove was located in the kitchen of the summer home.
The cottage is owned by Dr. E. E. Padgett, 3251 College Ave., Indianapolis, . .
. .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, July 20, 1927]
Tanglewood -
Mrs. Carl Westerlind of Chicago, owner of the Tanglewood Cottage in Lily Park,
Lake Manitou, is recovering today from many bruises and a badly sprained left
ankle which she received in a successful attempt to rescue her four year old
niece, Lorette Chandler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Chandler of Peru, from
drowning in the lake shortly after four o'clock Wednesday afternoon. . . . .
The News- Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, August 4, 1927]
Four Oaks -
Miss Loretta Donnely daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. DONNELY of Kokomo, who spend
their summers in their cottage Four Oaks in Best View Park, Lake Manitou, was
the winner in a bathing beauty contst conducted by a Kokomo newspaper last week.
As a reward Miss Donnely has been declared "Miss Kokomo" and will
compete in the nation wide bathing beauty contest which will be held at Atlantic
City in September.
The News- Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Thursday, August 4, 1927]
Greenwald -
An exceptional Iris, propagated at Lake Manitou last summer by Russel H. Jones,
of Peru, owner of the "Greenwald Cottage" on Wolfe's Point, and
transplanted on his Iris farm on the Chili pike near Peru this spring, was, on
account of its outstanding beauty named the Lindbergh. . . . . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, August 29, 1927]
Memory -
Be Content -
A carelessly tossed cigar or cigarette which ignited dry leaves which were in
the yard it is believed was the start of a fire at 12:30 Thursday night caused
the destruction with the contents of the "Memory" and the "Be
Content" cottages on the North Shore Drive located south of the Robertson
Boat Landing and just opposite the LaBelle tea room with a loss estimated at
$2,500. The Memory cottage belonged to Glen Burkett of Kokomo and the Be Content
was owned by Everett Nixon 702 Courtland Avenue Kokomo who is a justice of
peace. Some insurance carried by the owners.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, October 28, 1927]
Sandy Bar -
The timely arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Charles MORT and Mrs. and Mrs. James BRETT of
Indianapolis who had leased the "Sandy Bar" cottage on Wolfe's Point,
owned by the Turner Sisters of this city, saved the summer home from destruction
by fire Sunday night. . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana Monday, November 21 1927]
Four Dice - located - - - [see obit corrn, Byron F. Fordyce, The News-Sentinel,
Tuesday, June 24, 1930]
North Breeze - located N shore.[see obit, Byron F. Fordyce, The News-Sentinel,
Saturday, June 21, 1930]
Kwitcherkicken -
The Rochester fire department received a call at 12:30 o'clock Monday night from
the James Moore summer home, "Kwitcherkicken" on the north shore of
Lake Manitou where a chimney was burning out. The new pumper recently purchased
by the city and Rochester township for use at the lake made a run to the
cottage. The summer home is occupied by a family from Chicago. They had built a
fire in the grate last night which caused the chimney to burn out. One of the
tenants ran to the Charles Robertson home and turned in the alarm. The damage
caused by the fire was slight.
Longuvue -
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, April 17, 1928]
An error was made in last night's paper in reporting the fire at Lake Manitou
Monday evening. It was a chimney in the "Longuvue" cottage owned by
Trude and Julia Hoover which burned out instead of the chimney at the
"Kwitcherkicken" cottage owned by Jim Moore of Indianapolis.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, April 18, 1928]
Fairview - east side of lake Manitou.
Pike Out -
The third tragic ending of Rochester people to have occurred in as many days
resulted at 1 o'clock Saturday morning when Sarah FELTS, aged 20, succumbed at
Woodlawn hospital, following injuries received at the "Pike Out"
cottage, Lake Manitou, shortly after 11 o'clock Friday morning.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, November 16, 1929]
Pollyanna -
Friends here have received word of the death of Miss Lulu HATHAWAY, formerly of
Peru, who died Sunday at a hospital in Indianapolis following an illness of
several months. For several years Miss Hathaway owned the Pollyanna Cottage at
Lake Manitou.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, December 5, 1928]
Silver Moon - located N shore
White Lily - located N shore
Lindy -
While-Away -
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Scholder have sold their cottage, the While-Away on the
north shore of Lake Manitou to Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Carr of South Bend.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 1, 1929]
Marcia -
Onyx Shades -
Frank "Budge" C. EMERICK, age 63, summer resident of Lake Manitou,
passed away suddenly at the Marcia cottage on the east side of the lake at 1:30
p.m. Saturday. Mr. Emerick has been coming to the lake for about twenty-five
years, his home being at 2450 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis. He has been
at the lake about a month this summer.
After having dinner with his wife at their cottage, Mr. Emerick was engaged in
painting a fence around the "Onyx Shades," one of the three cottages
which he owned, when he became dizzy. He retired to the house where he died five
minutes later. Coroner A. E. STINSON was called and pronounced death due to
heart trouble.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 10, 1929]
Twin Elms -
Happy Hollow -
Saginaw -
Lake Manitou was visited by its third bad fire in three years at 11:30 o'clock
this morning when three cottages and their contents located on the southwest
shore of the lake were almost completely destroyed by fire which was caused when
a draft blew a tongue of flame from a coal oil stove in the "Twin
Elms" cottage owned by Arthur Brubaker and Cecil Snapp but occupied by Mr.
and Mrs. Charles F. Walters, 638 East 88th Place, Chicago, igniting a curtain
which was hanging over a window near the stove and thus firing the cottage.
The flames spread from the Twin Elms cottage, a frame structure, to the summer
homes on either side of it, the "Happy Hollow" to the east constructed
of cement blocks owned by Mrs. Margaret Reese of this city, but occupied by
United States Senator and Mrs. Arthur Robinson of Indianapolis, and the
"Saginaw" to the west owned by Mr. and Mrs. Jess Jackson, 623 South
Union Street, Kokomo. The Saginaw was unoccupied. . . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 18, 1929]
Marietta -
Friends in this city have received word of the death of Charles McCLURE of Peru,
owner of the Marietta cottage on the east side of the lake, which occurred in
Peru yesterday morning after a long illness. The funeral services will be held
Saturday morning from the St. Charles Catholic Church in Peru.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday August 9, 1929]
Libby Lou -
Tipperary -
Viers -
The second bad fire to visit Lake Manitou this year occurred this morning
shortly after 11 o'clock when a blaze of a mysterious origin starting in the
Libby Lou Cottage on Wolfe's Point completely destroyed that summer home and
badly damaged the Tipperary and the Viers cottages on either side of it. [Libby
Lou, owned by Lou Moore, of Kokomo. Tipperary, owned by L. B. McLean, 110 North
Kesling Ave., Indianapolis. Viers, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Viers of
Rochester]
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, August 19, 1929]
Zippy Ann -
Mr. and Mrs. O. E. REDDICK and family have returned from Union City, Indiana,
where they were called last Wednesday evening by the death of Mr. Reddick's
father, D. L. REDDICK, who died suddenly following a heart attack. Mr. Reddick
owns the "Zibby Ann" cottage at Lake Manitou and is will known here
where he has often visited.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, November 18, 1929]
LAKE MANITOU DAM [Lake Manitou]
Dam Broken. The mill dam at Lake Manitau gave way last week, and since its
fefection, the outlet has been very much swollen. The lake has been lowered
about six feet . . [Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 14, 1868]
LAKE MANITOU EXCURSION BOATS [Lake Manitou]
The "Pastime" was a double-decker owned by George Pollock.
The "Redwing" was a single-decker, owned by Mr. Fuller. The
"Redwing" was moved permanently to Lake Maxinkuckee, at Culver.
These two boats were running in the 20's and 30's.
LAKE MANITOU FAIR & ATHLETIC CLUB [Lake Manitou]
See: Manitou Fair Race Track
DIRECTORATE AND OFFICERS OF NEW FAIR CLUB NAMED
J. R. (Herb) Shobe was elected president of the Lake Manitou and Athletic Club
Incorporated at a special meeting of the board of directors held Friday morning.
Other officers elected were T. B. Baker, vice president and N. R. Stoner,
secretary-treasurer. The election of these officers followed a meeting of the
stockholders held Thursday evening at the First National Bank at which time the
directors were chosen.
The new directors of the organization include the three officers above mentioned
and Ray Newell and Charles A. Davis. At the meeting of the stockholders, at
which time the directorate was chosen, the Incorporation papers were adopted
finally, providing for a capital stock of $30,000 in shares of $100 each. This
movement had been tentatively decided upon previously but formal action was
delayed until Thursday.
The directors are to take over the active management of the organization up to
the time set for the first annual meeting, lwhich will be held in December.
While it is not planned to hold a fair this year, as the time is believed to be
too late, it is expected that the race track, grandstands and fences will be
erected as soon as possible so that the grounds may be used for baseball games,
races and other civic enterprises.
The club will have its headquarters, at least for the time being, at Shobe's
store, corner Main and Ninth streets, where all further information, especially
with regard to contracts and labor, may be secured.
Norman Stoner, secretary-treasurer, has been instructed to proceed immediately
with the collection of the money already subscribed and will visit the
stockholders as soon as possible.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 7, 1922]
WILL ASK FOR BIDS ON OLD FAIR GROUND
The old fair ground just west of the city will soon pass out of the hands of the
Lake Manitou Fair and Athletic Association, according to a decision reached at
the February meeting of the organization held Friday evening, at which time
Secretary DuBois was instructed to advertise for bids for the ground to be
received up to 4:00 p.m. February 16.
In the meantime Frank Moore was instructed by the board to remove the buildings
now standing on the old grounds and place the lumber on the new fair grounds at
the lake.
Ray Newell was named construction superintendent of construction [sic] on the
grandstands now under course of construction and the current bills were allowed.
The directors approved of the plan of Ray Newell to lease the grounds on the
Fourth of July for a celebration he plans to stage. The feature of the proposed
celebration will be automobile races, but further details have not yet been
completed.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 3, 1923]
ONLY ONE BID FOR OLD FAIR GROUND PROPERTY
At press time Friday but one bid had been received by the Lake Manitou Fair and
Athletic Club for the old fair grounds just west of the city. Four o'clock was
the time limit set for the receiving of bids, which were to be presented sealed.
The one bid received at a late hour in the afternoon was from Daniel McIntyre.
It was expected, however, that other bids would be offered at the last minute.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 16, 1923]
TRANSFER OF PARK MADE ON SATURDAY
Formal transfer of the old fair ground site west of Rochester from the new fair
organization, which has purchased it some time ago, to the city of Rochester was
made Saturday morning following the approval of the abstract by City Attorney P.
M. Buchanan. The $2,500 purchase price was turned over to the Lake Manitou Fair
and Athletic Club and the deed presented to the city. No other action will be
taken with regard to the park until the next regular meeting of the council when
a park board will be appointed.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 16, 1923]
NEW FAIR GROUNDS WONDERFUL
* * * * Announcement was made Monday that an agreement had been reached among
the majority of the merchants of Rochester to close the stores Thursday and
Friday afternoons to permit everybody to attend the fair * * * *
The people of this community have been hearing about the Lake Manitou Fair, not
only be word of mouth but in newspaper articles and all reports indicated that
it would excel anything ever attempted by the community. But thinking in terms
of the fair that died a natural death a few brief years ago, these stories
seemed a trifle exaggerated -- like some of the doctor's pills - - a little hard
to take.
But when the grounds are opened up for the general public on Wednesday all may
see and believe. A Sentinel representative, somewhat skeptical like many another
of this vicinity, visited the grounds Monday morning, however, and to him was
driven home the truth of the old adage, "seeing is believing."
Magnificent is a good word to describe the new grounds, the race track, the
grandstand, the exhibits and long avenue of concessions that greet the eye of
the visitor to the new venture.
Starting with the gates and ticket house, which present a highly attractive
appearance, one's first vision upon entering are the white and brown-topped
tents that extend almost all of the way around the track.
Upon the visitor's immediate left upon entering are the stables for the speed
horses. These have been augmented by two large tents housing 35 stables each,
making a total of 105 horses on the grounds.
Here in itself is a seething little village teeming with the usual pre-fair
activities. Horses are being led up and down the path while others are being
rubbed down following trial heats.
The new race track, a marvel in itself, hides nothing from the view of the race
fan wherever he may be located. And on the race track, even so early as Monday
morning there were a dozen or more horses trying out the clay oval, which is
said by numerous horsemen here to rank with the best in the state. Some even
went so far as to predict that the races Thursday, Friday, Saturday will see the
establishment of some new records.
The grandstand, located on the far side of the straight-away of the track is
fine enough for the state fair, and in fact is really more comfortable. It seats
2,500 persons and on the huge concrete steps leading up to it fully 4,000 in all
may easily be accommodated.
At the extreme lower end of the grounds are the ladies' rest room with the
children's nursery adjoining. Immediately at the rear of the grandstand is a
100x200 foot tent that will house the auto show, and as a matter of fact this
huge canvas house will hardly be adequate for the exhibits already contracted.
There are four cattle and three hog barns where are located exhibits taken
directly from the state fair at Indianapolis, while the chicken house and the
usual exhibits of other farm products take up other space including some of the
space beneath the grandstand where is also housed the secretary's offices.
There is almost a continuous double row of concessions for the space of 500 feet
where may be purchased everything from red lemonade and "hot dogs" to
the "cane you ring, the cane you get" stands. The carnival company has
a Ferris wheel, a merry-go-round, a large "Ten-in-One" side show, a
motordrome, horse show and a real athletic show, all of which are of the very
best that can be obtained.
As a matter of fact the whole thing, and especially the last few days'
activities of the 50 or more workers busy finishing up on the grounds, might be
described at such length as to grow tedious, but perhaps the best description
will be that afforded by the first visit, which will be truly astonishing.
The grounds are closed now until Wednesday, when admissions must be purchased at
the gate. The first day is usually rather quiet, but this condition is not
expected here at least as this the first year of the new fair. The races are
Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the real days of the fair.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 13, 1923]
LARGEST CROWD EVER KNOWN AT FAIR THURSDAY
The largest crowd that has ever attended a fair in Fulton county gathered at the
grounds of the Lake Manitou Fair and Athletic Club Thursday afternoon, the
feature day of the 1924 session. Nearly 6,000 persons were admitted to the
grounds during the afternoon, according to N. R. Stoner and more than 1,000 came
in during the evening to take in the free attractions and visit the finest and
most elaborate midway in the annals of Fulton county's fare.
The day was ideal for the association, members of which are jubilant over the
indicated success and while the high record attained Thursday was not expected
to be duplicated on Friday, it was predicted, however, that there would be as
many as 5,000 pass through the gates during the whole day. The grand stand on
Thursday was filled to its utmost capacity. The stand provides comfortable
seating capacity for 1,500 persons and while the races were in progress 1,700
tickets to the stand were taken up at the entrances.
Nothing untoward happened Thursday with the exception of the theft of an
automobile and some minor automobile accessories, and things appeared to be
traveling along a smooth path Friday afternoon as the program was gotten under
way.
A peculiar coincident marked Thursday's race program, each of which was won in
three straight heats. In the opening race, the 2:22 pace, Little Walter had
things his own way and was hardly extended to his limit by Babe who came under
the wire just behind the winner in each heat. There was a dozen entries in this
event, but outside of a brush between F. B. L. and Silver King it was a good,
interesting race to watch.
Prodigal Watts showed a burst of speed in the final heat of the 2:12 trot by
going the mile in 14 1-2, but in the first two heats the time was not so good.
A. B. C. and Ruth Rowlan were close contendors for second money in the trot with
the horse with the initialed name taking second place. There were only five
entries. Baby Dell nosing out Abbleme for fourth place.
Starter Caskey became highly indignant when Beck, piloting Bubbles, refused to
check his mount at the start and let the field go with him and slapped a $25
fine on the driver when he refused to heed the warnings given him. But Bubbles
paid the fine by winning hands down with Charlene W. trailing along just behind
for second money with the field straggled out way back of the two handling
pacers in the 2:17 event. . . . . . . . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 15, 1924]
GREYHOUND RACES WILL BE INAUGURATED HERE
A novelty for Rochester will be introduced at the Lake Manitou Fair and Athletic
club grounds on May 24, preceding the first home baseball game, when the first
of a series of coursing races, with some of the fastest greyhounds in the
country and live jack rabbits, animal speedsters of the plains country, will
take part. E. N. Bennett of Kokomo heads the Northern Indiana Coursing Club
which has leased the infield of the local grounds for its exhibitions. Races, 15
of them, will be held on the opening day, beginning at 1 p.m. These will be the
first dog races in northern Indiana. It is popular in the South.
All events will be held under the American Coursing Association rules with Bert
Thatcher supervising. Dogs will run in two lanes, elimination runs. Steel posts
extending three feet from the ground, with wire covering and burlap sides will
guide the runners.
For the first program of 15 races the field will include dogs from Lincoln, Clay
Center, Kas., Holton, Kas., Miami, Denver and Kaw City, Okla., all outstate
points. An animal from Clay Center, "Midnight Sun," is a remarkably
fast racer.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, May 8, 1925]
HEADLINE ATTRACTIONS OBTAINED FOR THE FAIR
HARRY SNODGRASS TOPS TALENT COMING HERE SEPT. 1-3
The management of the Lake Manitou Fair and Athletic Club intends to bring the
crowd in from a wide stretch of surrounding territory Sept. 1-5, according to
plans announced for free amusements and midway attractions made Tuesday.
Harry N. Snodgrass, booked for one niights' vaudeville entertainment, is the
headline attraction announced by Herman Coplen, chairman of the amusements of
the annual fair. He will appear on the final night, Saturday, Sept. 5, in
combination with three other acts of high calibre - among them Nellie Jay and
Her Jaybirds, and the popular radio announcer formerly of station WOS, from
which Snodgrass made his reutation as "king of the ivories."
These attractions were booked through the E. W. Kurtz amusement company of
Indianapolis.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, May 12, 1925]
BIG DISLPAY BUILDING FOR FAIR GROUNDS IS ORDERED
A display building to be 76 feet by 114 feet in dimensions will be built shortly
at the grounds of the Lake Manitou Fair and Athletic Club.
This was the decision made by the directors of the fair association at a meeting
Friday night. The structure will be erected at slight expense, largely with the
lumber of the former lakeside tabernacle now dismantled, which Fred Davis, chief
owner of the Colonial Hotel and grounds, donated to the association.
The building will replace the tent which has been rented annually at a cost of
$600 for the few days, and will eliminate one item of fair expense. It will be
built upon a number of cement pillars in the ground.
Later, if the fair association has sufficient funds, bleachers to the right and
left of the grandstand will be erected for spectators.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 11, 1925]
BAKER MAKES GENEROUS OFFER TO FAIR ASSN.
The fate of the Lake Manitou Fair Association still hangs in the balance. On
Tuesday evening about thirty members of the association gathered in the basement
of the First National Bank for the purpose of formulating some definite plan
concerning the future of the fair grounds. However, it was cited by legal advice
that any action taken at this meeting would not stand as the proper notices and
time had not been published or set for the special meeting.
Tim Baker, upon whose land the fair grounds is located called the stockholders
attention to the fact that their contract with him was now over two years in
arrears and that the land and building automatically revert to his ownership.
However, it is Baker's earnest desire that the fair "carry on" and he
has voluntarily extended a period of sixty days of grace for redemption of the
ground and property.
Would Discount $1,000
Mr. Baker added he would lease the grounds this year to a South Bend man for the
purpose of putting on auto races for $1,000. Should the fair association so
elect to purchase the land, which consist of 35 acres from Mr. Baker at the
nominal figure of $8,000 he would go ahead with his contract with the South Bend
promotor, reserving a week for the Fulton County fair and allow the $1,000
received from this source to apply to the purchase price of the property.
As matters now stand the present association would not only suffer the loss of
the land but also forfeit all its right in close to $30,000 worth of property,
consisting of fencing, 34 permanent stables, 70 temporary stables, pig and
poultry sheds, rest rooms, grandstand and bleachers, judges stand, pumps and
wells and race track.
A special call meeting will be held in the very near future and it is believed a
full attendance will be present and it is the prevalent opinion that Fulton
County fairs will not be alowed to pass into history.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 13, 1927]
LAKE MANITOU FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS [Lake Manitou]
SUB-DIVISION AT LAKE MANITOU NEW PROJECT
Unknown to the general public of this community a sub-division is being promoted
and successfully so in regular Florida style at Lake Manitou. The work has all
been done within the last two months and as a result few summer resorters or
others have seen the activities that are taking place just north of the
Rochester Country Club golf course. But if the project is successfully
completed, and it looks as if it will be, Lake Manitou will have quite an
addition to its summer colony in 1929 with a number of new cottages.
The sub-division which is named "Fairview Heights," is being promoted
by H. E. Haley, of Salina, O. He purchased the ten acre field of John Shobe,
paid for it, and then proceeded to have it improved at once. Streets were made
and graveled, lots were dragged and marked off and some landscape gardening was
done. Trees are to be put in later, the salesman says. Each lot measures 40x60
feet and there are about 115 in all, a rough count shows. All of the lots are on
the south and east side of the road around the east side of the lake but it is
understood that each purchaser is assured the colony will have access to the
lake over a water front lot now owned or to be purchased by the company. At
present the promoters are using one of the H. A. Fristoe cottages for an office.
The choice lots face on the road and along the fairway of the golf course and
most of these have signs on them marked "sold." Road advertising signs
that lead visitors to the subdivision read that the lots in Fairview Heights are
valued from $250 to $750. It is said that already about 45 lots have been sold.
Outside of the necessary business transactions made no notice of this
subdivision project has been made about Rochester. People of this vicinity have
not been asked to buy but from all information obtained advertising has been
done in surrounding towns such as Peru, Kokomo, Logansport and others and that
the majority of purchasers are from these sections. Several lots have also been
given away, it is said, by the company and the opportunity to get a lot free has
drawn many people to the place.
Mr. Haley and a group of salesmen are on the job every Saturday and Sunday
showing interested prospects over the sub-division. Cars from surrounding cities
drive in and those interested walk over the grounds with a salesman and hear the
project explained. Most of those who have bought made a down payment and sign a
note for the remainder. It is estimated that as many as 100 cars have brought
people to the place on various Sundays. All in all it is a very interesting
proposition of which this community knows little despite the nearness of it all
and which has been carried on quietly and earnestly by the promoters without
attracting particular attention here.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, December 19, 1928]
LAKE MANITOU FISH HATCHERIES [Lake Manitou]
See: Rochester Federal Fish Hatchery
See: Izaak Walton League
__________
FISH HATCHERIES OPEN FOR INSPECTION SUNDAY
The Lake Manitou Fish Hatcheries located on the city's property on the northwest
shore of the lake will be opened for public inspection, Sunday, September 22nd.
Several members of the Izaak Walton League will be at the hatcheries to answer
any and all questions the visitors may ask.
The hatcheries which consist of three large basins will be put in active
operation early next spring and the first production of minnows will be ready to
be placed in Manitou during July. The lay-out of the hatcheries and the
financing of the project was planned by Tom Emmons, president of the Waltonites,
who was assisted by several other members of the angler's league and Rochester
business men.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1929]
LAKE MANITOU HATCHERY [Rochester, Indiana]
Located E side of SR-25 about where the shopping center is now.
__________
ROCHESTER TO HAVE BIG CHICK HATCHERY
Charles W. Bailey and George W. Cox owner of the South Kenton Poultry Farm at
Kenton, Ohio, this morning signed a contract with a representative of the Smith
Incubator Company of Cleveland, Ohio, for two of the latst electrically heated
type incubators. Each incubator will have a capacity of 47,000 eggs or a total
of 94,000. Mr. Cox, who will be associated with Mr. Bailey in the local
hatchery, is one of the largest baby chick raisers in the United States. His
hatchery at Kenton, which ranks second in the state of Ohio in point of
production has a capacity of 320,000 eggs. Mr. Cox has been in the poultry
business for the past 31 years. He is the owner of 50 flocks of accredited
chickens.
Mr. Bailey and Mr. Cox have named their baby chick farm here the Lake Manitou
Hatchery. Several locations are being considered all on prominent roads leading
from this city. Mr. Cox will fill orders from the local hatchery for western
poultry raisers thereby saving much postage and giving his patrons quicker
service.
Work on the Lake Manitou Hatchery will start just as soon as the incubators
arrive in this city. Factory experts will be sent here to install them. In the
meantime Ohio University and Purdue University poultry experts will be sent to
this city by Mr. Cox to grade flocks of chickens in Fulton county so that only
eggs from the best hens will be used at the local hatchery.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, May 25, 1926]
ROCHESTER HAS ONE OF LARGEST CHICK HATCHERS IN INDIANA
The Lake Manitou Hatchery, managed by Charles Bailey, of this city, is now
nearing completion in the Barrett Building at 216 [?] East Seventh Street. At a
cost of $13,500 Rochester's newest industry has purchased two new incubating
machines of the Smith people of Cleveland, Ohio. These incubators are being
installed by two representatives of the company.
Each Smith incubator is a mammoth affair having a capacity of 47,000 eggs. It
consists of 65 crates weighing three tons when set up. It holds three tons of
eggs requiring 36 cases of eggs each week to fill it till the total capacity of
47,000 eggs is reached.
Eggs From 5,000 Hens
Each machine requires the egg production from 5,000 laying hens. Flocks of high
quality have already been secured and culled by Mr. Bailey, who took a special
course at Ohio State University in this work, within a radius of 15 miles of
Rochester. Breeds to be hatched include barred, buff and white Plymouth Rocks,
White Wyandottes, White Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds and Buff Orphingtons.
It will be so arranged at the local hatchery that chicks will be hatched twice a
week on Mondays and Thursdays and all orders will be promptly filled on these
dates according to the dates specified on the customers orders. Custom hatching
will also be given special attention this season Mr. Bailey stated today. The
hatchery will begin operation early in February and continue until June. The
output for the season will be approximately 250,000 chicks. Orders are now being
booked by Mr. Bailey
Aside from its enormous capacity, each incubator combines a number of exclusive
features. It occupies the remarkably small floor space of 10x13 feet, and can be
operated in a room ten feet high. The cooling system, as well as the heating
system prevents the eggs from becoming overheated in the hottest weather.
Temperature is accurately regulated by an instrument that needs no adjustment. A
record shows a complete record of the temperature during the entire hatch.
An automatic turning and lowering device permits 1680 eggs to be turned and
lowered in a few seconds. Another device supplies steam for moisture in any
amount desired. The incubator operates on one and a half pounds of steam. The
attendant works inside, thus precluding the possibility of chilling the chicks.
Electric fans assist in circulating the air, which is automatically changed
every three minutes. The egg is never touched by human hands after going into
the incubator.
Public Demonstration
Considerable interest is manifest in this new enterprise, and sometime in the
near future, upon completion of the installation of this mammoth incubator, the
hatchery will be open for public inspection, which will prove very interesting
for any one interested in poultry. Mr. George Cox, of Kenton, Ohio, president of
the Lake Manitou Hatchery is the owner of the South Kenton Poultry Farm the
largest raisers of baby chicks in the state of Ohio. He will assist Mr. Bailey
in managing the local concern thus insuring raisers the best and surest chicks
to be gotten in northerin Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, January 5, 1927]
LAKE MANITOU IMPROVEMENT AND PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION [Lake Manitou]
NOTICE
There will be a meeting of the Lake Manitou Improvement and Protective
Association at the Commercial club rooms this evening at 8 o'clock. At this time
the by-laws and constitution will be read and the organization completed.
Everyone who has property interests are requested to be present.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 30, 1911]
BIG MEMBERSHIP
The second meeting of the Manitou Protective and Improvement association was
held Friday evening at the Commercial club rooms when a large number of lake
property owners and other interested citizens were present. - - - -
Among the important steps to be taken will be the screening of the outlet of the
lake to prevent the bass minnows from going over the dam. - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 1, 1911]
READY FOR ACTION
The third meeting of the Manitou Improvement and Protective association held
Friday evening in the Commercial club rooms was a wonder for interst and action.
A crowd of members and interested persons which attended filled the room, and
everybody was up on their toes for all propositions presented.
The first step in the meeting was the making of a permanent organization. In the
election of officers O. A. Davis was chosen president; Del Kessler,
vice-president; Will Brown, secretary, and Earle Miller, treasurer. The board of
directors are J. F. Dysert, chairman; C. C. Campbell, Ike Wile and J. D. Holmes.
President O. A. Davis will go to Indianapolis Monday to get the association's
charter, and at 8:30 o'clock on that morning a committee will start out for a
thorough canvass for new members. Another big item to be launched Monday will be
the starting of the work in connection with the screening of the dam. This will
be in charge of Simon Bailey, and this step alone will save hundreds of
thousands of fish annually to the lake. In the very near future the state will
be asked to establish a hatchery in or near Manitou. This will enable the
association to keep the waters stocked at all times. Judge Harry Bernetha has
volunteered to go to Indianapolis and prevail upon the fish commission to act at
once. It is believed by many influential property owners and citizens that with
slight effort a drive entirely around the lake may be established. This matter
will be taken up in the very near future and pushed with all vigor. Another
great item being considered is the converting of one of the lake islands into a
public park. If this is consummated the island will be beautified in every
possible manner and be used as a public gathering place. In connection with this
a concerted action on the part of property owners will see that the weeds will
be cleaned out from the banks for a distance of 50 or 100 feet so that gasoline
launches may ply arond the entire lake. Four or five public spirited property
owners have gone so far as to say they will establish from two to five bathing
beaches at various suitable points. Besides floats will be placed in convenient
places for the amusement of the public.
Last, but not least, it is proposed that either by means of the association, a
private company or the city, water connecting between Rochester and the lake be
established so that the beauties and allurements of the great resort can be
brought to our very doors.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 8, 1911]
HATCHERY READY FOR STOCK OF FISH
The fish hatchery, which has been under construction for the past few weeks by
the members of the Lake Manitou Improvement and Protective Association, has now
been finished and the water was turned into the pond Monday afternoon. The
hatchery, which is located in the triangle plot of land laying between the Dam
landing and the Akron road, just west of the lake, is situated in a natural
hollow and it was but comparatively short work to get the place ready for
occupancy by the fish that next fall will furnish a limitless supply for the
replenishing of the lake's waters. The committees that have been at work on the
construction report that the last shovel full of earth was placed in position
this morning and that now all that remains to do is the seining of the fish from
the creek and placing them in the hatchery. The pond measures about 175 feet
long and 75 feet wide, the entire surface of which is supplied by fresh running
water at all times by means of two large pipes that carry water from the lake
through the pond and then out on the other side into the creek.
Later the association intends beautifying the premises in the vicinity of the
hatchery and it is their plan to have the place resemble a park as closely as
possible.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 14, 1912]
LAKE MANITOU ISLANDS [Lake Manitou]
Big Island, located W of Bessmore Park, the northernmost island of a cluster of
four islands.
Coney Island [also called Mitchell Island], located NW part of lake, SE of the
dam, E of Manitou Heights.
Summer Resort. . . Messrs. Nye & Jewell are making the necessary
arrangements to have a nice hall for dancing on the Island, with boats to sail
to "all parts of the lake," and other amusements to please the
"gay and fashionable" who are in the habit of frequenting such places
of entertainment.
It is reported that there is to be a small steamer built for the purpose . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 11, 1867]
LOCAL NEWS
Coney Island was opened yesterday and it is said the amount of beer that found
its way down men's throats was something amazing. The regular scrap took place
but nobody was seriously hurt.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 6, 1901]
Honeymoon Island, located due S of Big Island, W of Bessmore Park.
Treasure Island, located W of the Elks Lodge and E of Wolf's Point Drive.
Unnamed Islands, two islands, one near and SW of Big Island; the other near and
due W of Honeymoon Island.
Rainbow Island, located on Poet's Point in Lilly Park, consisting of one acre,
connected to mainland by short bridge.
Goat Island
__________
BIG ISLAND RENTED
Edwin Rutledge of Danville, Ill., has rented Big Island in Lake Manitou for the
purpose of conducting an ice cream parlor and restaurant. He intends to remodel
the building at the island. Mr. Rutledge says that he will not sell intoxicating
liquors.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 15, 1915]
CONEY ISLAND LEASED
Charles Mitchell leased Coney Island in Lake Manitou Wednesday to a Marion man
named MACHSON who will conduct an amusement park. The new manager will erect a
merry go round, ferris wheel and other attractions.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 29, 1913]
ISLAND AND POINT AT LAKE ARE AVAILABLE
A deal was consummated late Thursday afternoon whereby Mr. and Mrs. Charles
Mitchell became the owners of the point of land which extends north of the ice
houses at the West Side hotel. They purchased the land of Tim Baker. The tract
contains 2-1/2 acres and was sold for $2,000.
The Mitchells have been very anxious to get this piece of property because it
will afford them an outlet from Coney Island, which they own. The little channel
between the mainland and the island varies between one and three feet deep.
The land which was purchased is mostly timbered. It will be divided into lots
making in all about fifteen. A preliminary survey has been made of Coney Island
it it has been found that between 20 and 30 lots can be plotted.
The land which Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have acquired will be known as Mitchell
point. One of the best views of the entire lake can be secured from this place
and the lots ought to find ready sale among people from Rochester, Peru and
Indianapolis who now make up the main bulk of the summer cottagers at the Lake
Manitou.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 6, 1920]
LAKE MANITOU DEPTH REMAINS AT 49 FEET
Further information about Lake Manitou which will be of interest to those who
have visited the summer resort was given out Saturday by Prof. Wm. Tucker of
Indiana university, and his assistant, A. F. Striker, who made a detailed map of
the body of water for the State Department of Conservation.
From the Dam Landing to one-half way up the swamp to the head of the lake is
just two miles distance. The lake was generally spoken of as much longer than
this. From Long Beach to the West Side Hotel it is slightly less than one and
one-quarter miles. The deepest water found off the Fairview Hotel was 45 feet
despite predictions that they would find 85 foot depth. Further soundings were
also made between Goat Island and the Campbell Cottage but nothing over 49 feet
was found although several old timers still insisted that 90 feet was the depth.
The two experts finished their work Saturday morning after taking just five days
to complete their map of Manitou.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 4, 1924]
BUY LAKE ISLAND
Clark Condon today announced the sale of the "South" island of the
group known as Big Islands, at Lake Manitou, to C. E. RHODES of Peru. The owner
will soon erect a cottage on his property.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, July 9, 1926]
PAUL EMRICK PURCHASES ISLAND IN LAKE MANITOU
Paul Spotts Emrick, director of the Purdue University Military band and a son of
Mrs. Alice Emrick of this city has purchased South Island, sometimes known as
Island Number Three, in Lake Manitou of Attorney Oliver Rhodes of Peru. The
island is situated south of Big Island.
Mr. Emrick holds a contract for the appearance of his band at the Indiana State
Fair in Indianapolis. As the fair occurs before the opening of the fall semester
at Purdue University Emrick will assemble his 120 musicians at his island here
about August 15 for a two weeks outing and practicer session.
The musicians will hold their practice in a pavilion which Mr. Emrick will build
on South Island in addition to a summer home. The Purdue band members will be
quartered in tents which will be erected on Big Island.
To Make Island Modern
South Island is one of the prettiest of five islands in Lake Manitou. It has an
area of an acre which is covered with a heavy carpet of grass. The banks are 12
feet higher than the surface of the lake and ample shade is provided by large
oak and walnut trees.
Mr. Emrick plans to build a modern summer home from the material which he will
transport to the island when the lake is frozen over. Mr. Emrick, who is a
professor in the electrical engineering school at Purdue, will lay a cable from
the mainland for both telephone and electric lights.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, December 13, 1926]
ANOTHER LAKE ISLAND SOLD TO LOGAN MAN
Walker DeHaven of Logansport has purchased Island Number Four in Lake Manitou,
sometimes known as the Isle of Oaks, of Charles Knight. The island is situated
just south of Big Island. A summer home was erected there several years ago
which Mr. DeHaven plans to improve. This is the second island to be sold in Lake
Manitou during the past four weeks, Paul Emrick of Lafayette having purchased
Island Number Three of Attorney Rhodes of Peru.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, December 29, 1926]
Earl Denny who at one time figured in a shooting affray on Glass Blowers
Island at Lake Manitou with ex-sheriff Sam Arter has been given his discharge
from the Pendleton Reformatory. Denny was serving a term on the reformatory for
shooting Police Officer Earl Burwell of Warsaw on June 22, 1922. Denny's record
at the reformatory was described as "good."
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, August 22, 1928]
BIG ISLAND, LAKE MANITOU, BOUGHT BY R. A. EDWARDS
Announcement was made today that Richard Edwards has purchased Big Island in
Lake Manitou. The island is located near the east side of the lake and contains
three acres of heavily wooded land. It is the largest island in the lake and
because of that fact derives its name. Mr. Edwards purchased the island of Clark
Condon who has owned the island for a number of years. Edwards is the owner of
the Edico Inn, in the White City grounds on the east side of Lake Manitou. What
disposition Edwards will make of the island is not known. The island is one of
the most beautiful of the many in Lake Manitou. Edwards at the present time is
conducting a marathon dance in Brooklyn, N.Y.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 16, 1932]
LAKE MANITOU MONSTER [Lake Manitou]
A Big Fish. A Buffalo fish was caught at Smith's Dam, at the outlet of Lake
Manitou, on Thursday, last. It weighed 44-1/2 pounds. Some fish that.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 28, 1863]
"Manitau" means "good spirit or master of life, evil spirit or
devil" in the Indian language. Lake Manitou gets its name from the reputed
monster that reportedly was sighted various times in the lake many years ago.
The Indians named the lake before the coming of the white man. The told early
settlers that members of their tribe had seen a monster serpent with a scaley
tail coming to the surface of the lake, and many Indians were afraid to go near
the water.
Indian legend told a story similar to Noah's ark with the flood being caused by
a dying lake monster threshing around and splashing until a wall of water rose
and flooded the world. Lake Manitou supposedly was connected by an underground
passage to the Great Lakes, and water came pouring through this underground
river to flood this area. The Indians took refuge in a canoe instead of an ark.
After many days they sent a muskrat to find dry earth (instead of a dove to find
an olive leaf) to prove that the flood was over.
Another legend was that the Manitou spirit would not let enyone drown in the
lake as long as they did not bother him.
When the first white men came to build the corn mill for the Potawatomi Indians
in 1827, they supposedly sighted the monster several times. Austin W. Morris,
the surveyor, had difficulty keeping flagmen who would carry the surveyor's flag
near the water.
John Lindsay, the first blacksmith, claimed to have seen the monster. He
described it: "The head being about three feet across the frontal bone and
having something of the contour of a beef's head, but the neck tapering and
having the character of the serpent; color dingy with large yellow spots."
In July, 1838, several men by the name of Robinson said they saw the monster and
quickly rowed to thore. They said it was 60 feet long, and their story was
reported in The Logansport Telegraph. From their description, George Winter, the
artist who painted portraits of Indians near Kewanna, sketched his conception of
the monster for The Telegraph. [copy in Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
There was a great deal of discussion in Logansport about forming an expedition
and making an attempt to capture the monster, though nothing like this seems to
have materialized. As the newspaper story traveled to the east coast, "men
of the sea" volunteered their service and brought equipment to the lake,
hopefully to preserve the creature for posterity.
Some unbelievers said the monster had been seen through glass, the glass of a
whiskey jug. Others scoffed that they really just saw a canoe's shadow, a canoe
20 feet long with a figure head to resemble the monster. But no such canoe was
known to have existed in this area.
No more sightings were reported until May 26, 1849, when The Logansport Journal
ran a headline: "The Devil Caught at Last." A huge buffalo carp was
caught, weighing several hundred pounds. The head which weighted 30 pounds, was
taken to Logansport.
So wide had the fame of this fabled creature spread that a romantic novel titled
Manitou by Mararet Holmes was published in 1881. [NOTE: Margaret Holmes, penname
of Martha Ernsperger Bates, a former Rochester girl living in Indianapolis. -
W.C.T]
In 1888 a 116-pound spoonbill catfish was caught by Phillip Cook, Andy Edwards,
Doc Crockett and Sam Strauss in front of the present Sportsman's Landing.
Cook bought his partners out and exhibited the huge fish in a horse trough by
the Courthouse for a week, charging 10 cents per person. Then he took it to
Logansport and exhibited it for another week there, doing a "land
office" business. When Cook saw the fish getting weaker, he brought it back
to Rochester, butchered and sold it for 10 cents a pound, a big price in those
days.
The Manitou monster has not been seen for many years.
[Manitou Monster, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
See Kings Lake Monster
LAKE MANITOU PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION [Lake Manitou]
PROTECTIVE ASS'N FOR LAKE MANITOU ORGANIZED HERE
Renewed interest in the protection and conservation of the natural resources
that abound in and around Lake Manitou was awakened last night in a rousing
meeting of local enthusiasts who organized the Lake Manitou Cattagers'
Protective Association at the assembly rooms of the First National bank. With
the best of prospects ahead, the new organization bids fair to be a power in
advancing the future welfare of the lake.
After a speech by State Organizer A. E. BODINE, of the State Department of
Conservation, setting forth the drive for conservation of natural resources
today, both in state and nation, the organization was perfected, constitution
and by-laws adopted, and officers were elected.
The following officials will serve for a term of one year: James R. Moore,
president; Frank Carson of Peru, vice president; Earle Miller, secretary; John
D. Holman, treasurer. Together with these officers the following will substitute
[sic] the executive committee: A. L. Deniston, Rochester; Russel Jones, Peru;
Attorney O. F. Rhodes, Peru; William Runyan, Huntington; Floriburt Michaels,
Indianapolis.
A legislative committee was appointed, consisting of Attorney Chas. Campbell,
Simon Bailey, O. F. Rhodes, M. O. Enyart, A. L. Deniston and William Runyan.
James R. Moore called a meeting to order. He stated that the perfection of this
association had been in the minds of local men, interested in Lake Manitou, for
some time. All were encouraged over the possibility that now presented itself,
he stated. Mr. Moore and Attorney Campbell served as the temporary officers.
Mr. Bodine, of the state department, was introduced and he entered into the
reasons for the present move. "We have a State Department of Conservation
that is taking fish and game protection seriously," he stated. "This
department is eliminating the 'pull' as a qualification for its members. Men
today, who are in the field service, are asked for results, and are obliged to
make continued reports as to their whereabouts and operations. If the
law-abiding fishermen and hunters want violators arrested and convicted, the
state is trying to accommodate them."
Mr. Bodine talked for the organization and its obvious necessity. Cooperation
with the State Department of Conservation was shown to be much needed in getting
results.
Attorney O. F. Rhodes, of Peru, who came over with the delegation from that
city, spoke of that city's interest in Lake Manitou. He stated that the lake, as
a desirable place to come, would lose its prstige unless the fish were protected
in its waters. He spoke for strong enforcement of the fish and game laws.
Frank Carson, of Peru, said much laxity in the protection of the lake has
existed in the past. He stated that the asset of Lake Manitou to this county can
hardly be estimated in money. It reaches beyond the commercial aspect and
conservation of its resources must be closely guarded.
A. L. Deniston said that the possibilities of the lake had not been even
estimated. By proper publicity, re-stocking with desirable fish, protection at
proper times, and organization to promote the future welfare much may be
accomplished.
F. F. Moore made several remarks that helped make the organization efficient in
the various departments. C. C. Campbell, Earle Miller, O. D. Ross, Russell
Jones, of Peru, Charles Clifton and John D. Holman spoke on various phases of
the subject.
The association is launched with forty-five charter members all duly signed.
Plans are under way, already for a summer session on the shore of Lake Manitou
that promises to be the largest picnic ever held there. An invitation will be
sent to Supt. George N. Mannfeld, state head of the fish and game department,
Indianapolis, to be present at this summer meeting and deliver the main address.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 22, 1920]
MAY PURCHASE BELL
A movement has been launched by the Lake Manitou Protective Association to
secure funds with which to purchase a diving bell for use at the lake in case of
drowning. Without proper facilities it is extremely hard to recover lost bodies,
and such an apparatus would greatly facilitate matters in case of lake
fatalities.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, June 21, 1921]
LAKE ORGANIZATION WANTS NEW MEMBERS
The membership committee of the Lake Manitou Protective Association is mailing
out 500 letters in the vicinity of Rochester to ask individuals to join their
organization. The fiscal year of the Association ends July 31st and the
committee reports the treasury empty which means that the old members must pay
up their dues and many new ones join if it is to continue on its work of
protecting Lake Manitou.
The letter sets forth some of the things the Association has done and
particularly refers to the building of screens across the outlets of the lake
thereby saving millions of minnows which would have otherwise been lost. The
committee in the letter says that it must have more money and that every person
in Rochester who is a beneficiary from the lake, which includes everyone in some
way or other, should belong.
The committee is composed of James Moore, chairman, W. W. Zimmerman and John
Allison. Anyone wishing to join can do so by giving $1.00 to any of these
members.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, July 30, 1923]
LAKE MANITOU RESORT [Lake Manitou]
Located N shore of Lake Manitou in Lilly Park just W of Barrett Rd.
Goldie and Charles Talbert owned the apartment building which was probably built
in 1919. They operated a restaurant. After his death she sold to William Boose,
who in turn sold it in 1945 to the Moose Lodge. The Moose Lodge enlarged it to
have a dance floor, bar and food.
Joe and Amelia Ewing purchased land to the east of the Lodge in 1919. They built
a home and garage, moved another building to the east of their lake frontage and
made a restaurant, which they operated for several years.
Maurice and Margaret (Wilson) Sadowsky purchased the Moose building and later
the Ewing home and restaurant building in 1951. In 1974 it was called the Lake
Manitou Resort consisting of eight modern apartments, a cottage, swimming pool
and fishing equipment store with marine supplies.
LAKE MANITOU SKATING RINK
[See Skating Rink
LAKE MANITOU SONG [Lake Manitou]
VAN LYNN'S PIECE IS RADIOED OVER U.S.
Local radio fans Tuesday were again reminded that Lake Manitou is receiving its
full share of publicity through the activity of Station WHT, Chicago, under the
management of Miss Gene Sargent, who has visited the Fairview Gardens on
numerous occasions this season. Al Kearney, organist at WHT, played
"Moonlight On Manitou," an original waltz composition of Van Lynn's
Tuesday. Residents who were tuned in stated the piece came in with perfect
reception and that Miss Sargent in her announcement dedicated the selection to
its composer, Lake Manitou and the Fairview Gardens.
[The News-Setinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, August 25, 1926]
LAKE MANITOU STUDEBAKER OUTING [Lake Manitou]
STUDEBAKER MEN GATHER AT MANITOU FOR OUTING
Five hundred foremen and executives from the Studebaker Corporation at South
Bend were at Lake Manitou today to enjoy their annual outing, the first one ever
held in this vicinity. The automobile men rolled into town at noon and for the
next two hours in almost a steady stream and at once went to the East Side of
the lake where headquarters were established at Fairview Hotel and Gardens.
Within a short time horseshoe contests, several baseball games, and golf was
well under way for the afternoon. The golf course was crowded with the players
all day long. Late in the afternoon several interdepartment baseball games were
scheduled which were attracting much attention.
Dinner was served at 5:30 in the tent covered dance pavilion at Fairview in
cafeteria style. The meal was featured with roast duck and fish. Following the
dinner several of the executives were scheduled to give talks and some unusual
entertainment was to follow. Jay White was in charge of the day's program.
When the visitors arrived in town at noon a traffic cop made up in the old time
rural constable type with a gigantic club and gun directed them all towards the
lake. He regulated traffic all morning long at the corner of Ninth and Main. One
party driving a new Studebaker model reported they drove from South Bend to
Rochester in 34 minutes.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, July 25, 1930]
LAKE SIXTEEN [Henry Township]
Located approximately 850E and 75S.
LAKE SIXTEEN POST OFFICE [Henry Township]
Located at Lake 16, where Lake Chippewa campground is located.
No town was ever there.
Mail Rochester to Warsaw twice per week by Wm. Atkinson.
Applied for by Shaderack Hiland.
LAKE SIXTEEN POSTMASTERS [Henry Township]
Shadrack Hiland July 5, 1862. Discontinued Oct 10, 1863.
LAKETON, INDIANA [Kosciusko County]
A number of the farmers in the locality of Laketon, having become disatisfied
with the butchering service there, last week organized a company to go into the
butchering business and supply the community with meat. There are about fifty
stockholders at $5 a share.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 8, 1911]
GARAGE IS SOLD
James Smith has sold his garage at Laketon to Lawrence Jefferson of Wabash. Mr.
Smith has been the owner of the garage for the past five years.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, March 17, 1930]
LAKEVIEW ORCHARDS [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] LAKEVIEW ORCHARDS (Formerly the Gould Orchard), 1 1/2 miles southeast of
Rochester - - - - H. H. BARTER, Proprietor. - - - -
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, October 25, 1937]
LAKEVIEW PARK [Rochester, Indiana]
Located N side of the mill race, N of Manitou Heights between 900 E 9th and 1200
E 9th.
LAMBERT, WARD
See Coaching School
LAMBORN FURNITURE & UNDERTAKING, FRANK [Kewanna, Indiana]
KUMLER BUYS LAMBORN BUSINESS IN KEWANNA
H. B. Kumler, former county treasurer, has purchased the Frank Lamborn furniture
and undertaking business at Kewanna, according to announcement made Monday
morning. The Rochester man who will move his family to Kewanna in the near
future, plans to take possession of the business shortly after the first of
February. The stock is to be invoiced the latter part of this month. T. L.
Harrison, now connected with the business as undertaking, will be associated
with Mr. Kumler. Mr. Lamborn, who has been one of Kewanna's prominent merchants
for a number of years, plans to move to California.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 14, 1924]
LAMSON'S HOME BAKERY [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Here We Are. - - - The First Shot From Sampson's [sic] Bread Wagon. 32
large pound loaves for $1. 7 large pound loaves for 25c. 3 large pound loaves
for 10c. LAMSON'S HOME BAKERY, Opposite the Arlington.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, Friday, July 29, 1898]
[Adv] - - - Having recently purchased the Lamson Restaurant and Bakery, - - -
- will continue to keep the bread made at this place up to standard and FREE
from impurities, and give our patrons the best possible service.
We will also keep a full line of cakes, pies, confections, etc., and furnish the
best lunch and coffee in the city. - - - D. G. SMITH & CO.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 7, 1898]
LAMSON LUNCH ROOM [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] A FORTY FOOT LUNCH COUNTER AT LAMSON'S. Owing to the fact that I have
arranged to enlarge my lunch room and put in new fixtures and a more extensive
line of fancy groceries, I will make special low prices on all goods to make
room for the change.
Come and see my new forty foot lunch counter and bring your wife to my fine
oyster and lunch parlor on the second floor. LAMSON.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, Friday, October 5, 1894]
LANDES GROCERY [Rochester, Indiana]
New Grocery Store. H. F. Landes is opening up a new Grocery Store South of
Holmes & Millers building in the store room recently occupied by Cap.
Shields. . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, November 8, 1866]
LANDIS, FREDERICK [Logansport, Cass County]
"The People Are Coming," the new play written by Frederick Landis of
Logansport, who was nominated for lieutenant-governor on the Bull Moose ticket,
will be seen in Logansport later in the season. Mr. Landis has made arrangements
with Liebler & Company, the producers, for one performance in Logansport,
either during the Chicago run, or just after it. Rehearsals begin in New York
next week and Mr. Landis will be present to assist.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 5, 1912]
LANDIS, HENRY [Henry Township]
BIOGRAPHY
This gentleman was born in Lawrence County, Penn., December 22, 1812.
His parents, Henry and Susan L., were of Swiss descent and natives of
Pennsylvania.
Mr. Landis being brought up as a farmer, received but a limited education in the
common schools. Unlike most boys, he remained at home until the twenty-fourth
year of his age. He bought a farm in Summit County, Ohio, where he resided until
the spring of 1857, when he came to Indiana and located upon the site of his
prsent finely improved farm of 300 acres, which his son Aaron conducts for him.
In connection with this place, Mr. L. owns the valuable farm known as the
Ankerman place, which he purchased in 1872. He met with a severe loss shortly
after the purchase, through the destruction of the house by fire.
The subject of this sketch began the battle of life with $17 and an unlimitd
amount of courage and perseverance to overcome every obstacle in his endeavor to
provide himself and family with a pleasant home. We are happy to say that
success has crowned his efforts, and he has lived to see the fruition of his
hopes. Mr. Landis, in 1841, married Miss Lavinia Young, a native of Pennsylvani,
born in 1821. Twelve children have been born to them, of whom Aaron, Moses,
Alwilda King, Alfred, Myron, Edwin, Eliza and Israel, who is still unmarried,
are living.
Mr. and Mrs. Landis are members of the German Baptist Church.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 39]
LANDMARK RAZED [Rochester, Indiana]
WRECKERS AT WORK OF RAZING OLD LANDMARK
Workers started Tuesday afternoon to trear down the two story frame dwelling at
518 Main street known as the Reese property. This structure is a landmark of
Rochester and was built in 1850 by Willis Alexander, a plasterer. Squire Reese
acquired the property in 1860. Only two other dwellings on Main street are older
than the Reece property, and they are the Holzman and the Mrs. Nancy Meyers
homes. The oldest dwelling in Rochester erected in 1830 as a tavern is located
on a lot just east of the Frank Barcus limehouse on North Main street. The Reece
property has been condemned a number of times by the state fire marshal because
it was in the fire zone.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 6, 1927]
LANE, W. A. [Rochester, Indiana]
W. A. LANE
Bakery & Restaurant
Mr. LANE has been engaged in his present business for the past nine years, and
during that time has succeeded in building up a good trade.
The bakery of this establishment is well conducted, producing from the best and
purest of flour the finest breads, all kinds of rolls, cakes, pies, &c.
At this restaurant can always be had a good meal at any reasonable hour on short
notice. Hot tea and coffee is kept constantly on hand and a lunch can be
procured for any price to suit. Oysters served in any style, while in the summer
a specialty is made of ice cream. Mr. Lane also handles the best brands of
cigars, foreign and domestic fruits always on hand. Give him a call.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 29, 1888]
LANE, MYRA [Kokomo, Indiana]
See: Klein, Miriam
LANE SISTERS [Macy, Indiana/Indianola, Iowa]
MACY
Macy Monitor.
Mrs. L. A. Mullican, of Indianola, Iowa who is visiting her parents, Mr. and
Mrs. William Hicks, is the proud mother of a nine and one-half pound baby girl
which was born last week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, June 8, 1906]
MACY
Mrs. Lorenzo A. Mullican and daughters Leota, Martha and Dorothy, returned to
their home at Indianola, Iowa, Wednesday, after an extended visit here with
relatives.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, Åugust 8, 1912]
MACY
Dr. & Mrs. S. A. MULLICAN, of Indianola, Iowa, who formerly lived here, were
visited by the stork last week, who left them their fourth girl baby, whom they
have named Rosemary [MULLICAN]. [Note: Rosemary Mullican became a motion picture
star, known as Rosemary LANE. Two of her sisters also were stars, known as Lola
LANE and Priscilla LANE]
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 16, 1913]
MACY
Miss Martha Jane Mullican, second daughter of Dr. and Mrs. L. A. Mullican, of
Indianola, Iowa, who were former residents of Macy, was united in marriage to
Maxwell Dean Edwards, of Ottomwa, Iowa, Saturday, Jan. 12. The wedding took
place in the First Methodist church at Des Moines. Both had attended Simpson
college and the past year Miss Millican had been employed by the Aetna Insurance
Co., at Des Moines. After Mr. Edwards' graduation from Simpson college, he had
been affiliated with the Assuit college in Egypt for several years. They will
reside at Ottumwa, Iowa.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 23, 1924]
NIECES OF LOCAL MAN WIN STAGE CONTRACTS
Leota and Dorothy Mullican, daughters of Dr. and Mrs. L. A. Mullican of
Indianola, Iowa, and nieces of Ben Mullican of Rochester, started to New york a
few days ago to make their debut on Broadway Valentine's night, as proteges of
Gus Edwards, the man who started Mae Murray, Eddie Cantor and the Duncan sisters
on the road to theatre success.
Leota is an accomplished singer of classical selections. Dorothy was on the
chautauqua platform in the western states last summer.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, February 1, 1926]
AGED MACY RESIDENT IS DISCOVERED DEAD IN BED
Mrs. Anna HICKS, aged 78, well known resident of Macy, was found dead in bed at
her home at six o'clock Tuesday morning. Mrs. Hicks had been in poor health for
some time and had been confined to her bed the past four weeks.
The deceased was born near Miami, Indiana and was of English descent. Her
husband, Wm. HICKS, died 20 years ago. She was a member of the Macy Christian
Church and was a woman of splendid Christian character. Surviving are two sons
and two daughters: George E. HICKS of South Bend, Earl HICKS, of Bunker Hill,
Mrs. Clara CHAMP, of Macy, and Mrs. Cora MULLICAN, of Indianola, Iowa.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, November 1, 1927]
HICKS FUNERAL
Funeral services for the late Mrs. Anna HICKS, of Macy, who was found dead in
bed Wednesday morning, will be held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 at the Christian
Church in Macy. Burial will be made in the cemetery adjacent to the Mud Lake
Chapel. Rev. Hiram SAVIN will officiate.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, November 2, 1927]
FORMER FULTON CO. GIRL IS STARRED IN TALKIES
Patrons of the Char-Bell theatre will on Thursday and Friday evening of this
week have the opportunity of seeing and hearing Lola Lane, a former Fulton
county girl in the lead role of "The Girl From Havanna." Lola Lane is
the stage name for Dorothy Mullican, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. L. A. MULLICAN,
former residents of Macy, and now of Indianola, Ia. Dr. L. A. Mullican is the
brother of Ben [MULLICAN] of this city and Charles [MULLICAN], of Macy.
Miss Lane, who resides in Hollywood, Calif., has been in the motion picture
profession for the past two years. Prior to that time she and her sister Leota
were booked on the Keith-Albee vodvil circuit, their act being a musical feature
and dancing. Other "talkies" in which Miss Lane starred during the
present year were "Speak Easy" and the "Follies of '29." At
present she is engaged at work in the lead role of "Hollywood Nights"
which is still in the process of making at the Fox studios at Hollywood.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, November 12, 1929]
LOLA LANE MULLICAN HAS NOTABLE STAGE RECORD
According to Seth Shenton, Leota Lane, noted prima donna, daughter of Dr. and
Mrs. L. A. Mullican, of Indianola, and a product of the Simpson conservatory,
has the leading heroine role of "Contrary Mary," in a Victor Herbert
opera, "Babes in Toyland," which is being produced by the Schubert
company, and which opens for a several weeks' run at the Jolson theater in New
York. Leota Lane, in private life Mrs. Mischal C. Picard, has held the leading
heroine role in numerous operas, including "Greenwich Follies,"
"Gus Edwards' Revue," "Ritz-Carlton Nights", was Angela in
"Dagger and the Rose," and made a decided hit in "Luckee
Girl," her latest production before "Babes in Toyland." The Lane
sisters are first cousins of Miss Kathleen Mullican of this city.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 9, 1930]
LOLA LANE ELOPES BY PLANE WITH DIRECTOR
Las Vegas, Nev., May 29 - Climaxing a thrilling airplane elopement over
moon-bathed mountains from Hollywood, Alexandria Hall, movie director, and the
beautiful Lola Lane, film actress, were married here early Monday by Frank M.
Ryan, a justice of the peace.
The witnesses were Mrs. Ryan and D. W. Eggers, a Las Vegas taxicab driver.
Immediately after a wedding breakfast Miss Lane and her new husband boarded a
plane for the return trip to Hollywood.
"It was a simple wedding without flowers or anything," declared Judge
Ryan, "performed in the same spot in Clark county's courthouse near Boulder
Dam, where Jack Gilbert and Virginia Bruce were married a couple of years ago.
"Miss Lane and Mr. Hall were very tired when they got here, and insisted on
a quick ceremony," Judge Ryan continued. "After the wedding we all had
something to eat and the bride and groom went back to Hollywood. Miss Lane said
she had to go back to work today.
It was Miss Lane's second marriage in Las Vegas. She and Lew Ayres, movie star,
were married here Sept. 15, 1931. They subsequently were divorced.
Miss Lane was born Dorothy Mullican at Indianola, Iowa, the daughter of a
physician.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, May 29, 1934]
THREE MOVIE STARS AT LOCAL THEATRE WELL KNOWN HERE
Three movie and radio stars, well known in this community, are being featured in
the Varsity Show picture which is being shown at the Char-Bell theatre, tonight.
The celebrities are Dick Powell, who played two seasons at the Fairview Gardens,
and Misses Priscilla and Rosemary Lane, whose father was raised in the vicinity
of Macy, Ind. The Lane girls' family name is Mullican. They are nieces of Ben
and Charles Mullican of this city.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, October 25, 1937]
LANE SISTERS TAKE OVER ESTATE, INSTALL FOUNTAIN
Hollywood, Dec. 8. - Rosemary and Priscilla Lane, starlets, have leased an
estate at Encino and have set up housekeeping with their mother, Mrs. Mary B.
Lane. The place, of two and one-half acres, with commodious hacienda, guest
house and swimming pool, is in the foothills behond Ventura boulevard. It is in
the vicinity of the Raul Walsh estate and a mile from the home of the third Lane
sister, Lola.
Ambitious remodeling plans call for turning the guest house into a recreation
center, with a "cowboy room" decorated in decals and cowboy equipment
from guns and saddles to sombreros, and with an innovation in Hollywood bars.
This one will be a soda fountain.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, December 8, 1937]
FATHER OF LANE SISTERS IS DEAD
Indianola, Iowa, Jan. 11. (INS) - Dr. L. A. Mullican, father of the Lane sisters
of screen and radio fame, was dead today the victim of a heart attack which set
in shortly after he attended the Democratic Jackson Day dinner at Des Moines,
Saturday.
A postmaster and prominent politician, Mullican was the father of Dorothy, known
as Lola Lane, Rosemary who took part in the Hollywood Hotel, Priscilla also of
the movies and Leota, now at the Julliard music school in New York, who hopes to
make a grand opera deput soon.
Dr. Mullican was born near Macy, Ind., and came here after completing a course
at Northwestern University to practice dentistry in 1902. He died last night.
__________
Charles and Ben Mullican of this city left Monday for Indianola, Iowa, to be
at the bedside of their brother, Dr. L. A. Mullican who is critically ill from
heart trouble.
Dr. Mullican is the father of the three famous Lane sisters, all of whom are now
featured stars in movieland.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, January 11, 1938]
WARNER BROTHERS HAS SUSPENDED MACY GIRL
Hollywood, May 3. - Warners suspended Priscilla Lane, former Macy, Ind. girl
today because she refused to take the starring role in "Money and the
Woman."
Miss Lane said she considered the part unsuitable to her talents.
George Brent wasto be co-starred.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 3, 1940]
PRISCILLA LANE REVEALS HER MARRIAGE OF A DAY
Hollywood, May 31. - Priscilla Lane's secret slipped out today. The actress was
a bride for one day, then divorced without anybody finding out about it.
Just before closing time, May 3, using the name of Priscilla Haglund, she
appeared in Superior Judge F. A. Leonard's court at San Bernardino, told the
story of marrying Orin W. Haglund, assistant director, and was granted an
interlocutory decree of divorce by default. Hollywood didn't learn about it
until today.
Miss Lane, who rose to stardom three years ago after singing with Fred Waring's
orchestra, testified she married Haglund in Yuma, Ariz., on January 23, 1939,
and left him the next day, January 24.
Her studio, as surprised as anyone, said she concealed the marriage by using a
fictitious name at the marriage ceremony. Haglund, who had been escorting the
actress for months before the secret marriage, used his own name. Both are still
under contract at Warner Brothers' studio.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 31, 1940]
LOLA LANE MARRIES; ATTENDED BY PRISCILLA
Hollywood, Cal., Jan. 8. - Actress Lola Lane - in movies one of "Four
Wives" and"Four Mothers" - became the wife yesterday of Henry
Clay Dunham, yacht broker
Miss Lane, 27, sister of Actresses Rosemary and Priscilla, was married to
Dunham, 29, shortly after midnight by the Rev. James Hamilton Lash at the
Hollywood Congregational church. Priscilla attended her.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, January 8, 1941]
TO MARRY EDITOR OF WEEKLY PAPER
* * * * Photo of Priscilla Lane * * * *
Pert Priscilla Lane of the films is a June bride-to-be. John Barry, publisher of
a weekly newspaper at Victorville, Calif., is the fortunate fellow.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, June 19, 1941]
PRISCILLA LANE WED
Las Vegas, Nev., May 23. - Film actress Priscilla Lane was married Friday to
Lieut. Joseph A. Howard of the United States army air force.
__________
Miss Lane is a niece of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Mullican of this city.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, May 23, 1942]
ROSEMARY LANE SEPARATED
Hollywood, May 29, (INS) - Rosemary Lane of the Lane sisters and Buddy Westmore
definitely have come to the parting of the ways. "I guess it's just a case
of Hollywood's favorite complaint, incompatibility," Miss Lane said.
"We didn't seem to get along."
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, May 29, 1943]
LOLA LANE AND HUBBY HEAD FOR DIVORCE COURT
Hollywood, April 29. (INS) - Although no plans for a divorce have been made,
screen actress Lola Lane of the famous Lane sisters confirmed today that she and
her husband, Henry Dunham, had separated.
"It looks serious," Lola said, "and I doubt if we can adjust our
matrimonial troubles. I am sorry but it is something that cannot be
avoided."
Lola and Dunham were married Jan. 7, 1941. She was married to Lew Ayres when he
was at his height as a famous movie star and later became the wife of Al Hall,
well-known director. Dunham is her third husband.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 29, 1944]
LANGSDORF'S MEAT MARKET [Rochester Sentinel]
Where all kinds of Fresh, Salt and Smoked Meats can be bought at Poor Men's
Prices - - - Save money by calling on CHAS. LANGSDORF for choice meats. Shop
opposite Fromm's.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 7, 1878]
CHA'S. LANGSDORFF
Among the oldest institutions of Rochester we have to mention in our editorial
review, are some which for extent, and high standing would do credit to a much
larger city than this. One we would specially mention is the meat market of
Cha's. LANGSDORFF, founded by the present proprietor in the year 1867, since
which time it has always held a leading position.
Gradually from a small beginning it has won its way in popularity and increase
of trade until today an immense local trade is transacted and includes among its
customers a large list of the best families in the city.
This is an evidence in itself of the superior qualities of the meats Mr.
Langsdorff kills, but an inspection of the same hanging in his market or
refrigerator is more convincing and yet the best proof of its quality is in the
eating of the same. This market furnishes the CENTRAL HOUSE with its meats and
it is remarked by its patrons that its meats are not excelled by metropolitan
hotels. It has been the invariable rule of Mr. Langsdorff to kill only the best
quality of stock, and he has been liberal in paying for the same, being
determined that nothing shall find its way to or from his market unless of such
a quality as to add to rather than detract from the hard earned and valuable
reputation this market enjoys.
While this gentleman has received a liberal share of the patronage of our
citizens and been successful, yet, he has always been liberal in his actions,
remembering that no one can live alone, hence he has always contributed his full
quota towards the improvements and enterprise of this city. This as well as
rigid integrity of his dealings, full weights, fine quality and the tempting
manner in which his meats are arranged for public review has added largely to
his success.
The premises consist of a large and commodious room with an engine and sausage
house in the rear. The room is fitted up and arranged especially for the
business, and everything has a very bright and clean appearance. The front room
is the sales room and office, which is supplied with improved racks, scales and
one of the best and most improved refrigerators for keeping fresh meats. In the
rear of this is the work room where all the rough work is done, and still back
of this is the sausage department and packing rooms, the former being supplied
with all the most approved machinery for manufacturing all kinds of sausage, and
a steam engine for the motive power. Mr. Langsdorff has the best arranged
slaughter house in the state, which with his commodious ice houses are located
just north of the C. & A. Depot, also a large fish pond bountifully stocked
with German Carp, some of which will be found for sale at his market the ensuing
season. Persons from all over the country who have visited these premises
pronounce them to be among the best and most systematically arranged they ever
saw.
Mr. Langsdorff always keeps on hand a large stock of fresh salted, dried and
smoked meats, curing the same himself, so you can always rely upon getting the
best to be obtained, and the sausage and bologna of his make are the finest in
this part of the state. He also keeps a good stock of pickled pigs feet, tripe,
tongues, headcheese &c. Mr. Langsdorff employes none but reliable and sober
men on his premises and patrons can be assured of the most gentlemanly treatment
at all times. Mr. Langsdorff is honest and upright in all his dealings and we
cheerfully recommend him to the people as worthy of their patronage.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 29, 1888]
[Adv] "HOME MADE" Say, do you know that Langsdorf's lard is home
made and warranted perfectly pure? - - - 3,000 hogs wanted. Two shops - NORTH
END, SOUTH END. C. LANGSDORF.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 13, 1893]
LOCAL NEWS
Peter Weasner has rented the old Langsdorf meat market stand on north Main
street. Mr. Weasner is now proprietor of two meat shops, one being on Wall
street. Frank Rannells will have charge of the new shop.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 5, 1901]
LARRY'S FURNITURE - APPLIANCES [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW FURNITURE STORE TO OPEN ON FRIDAY, APRIL 27
Rochester's new furniture store, located at 619-623 North Main street in the
building formerly occupied by Ellis Reed, will hold its opening on Friday, April
27, under the management of Lorin (Larry) Williams.
The new store, which is owned by Karl Gast of Akron, carries a complete line of
furniture and household appliances embracing all high quality, nationally
advertised brands that are now available under OPA regulations.
Mr. Williams, who comes here from South Bend, was a buyer for one of Detroit's
largest department stores for 10 years. He also held a similar position in the
Robertson Bros. department store,South Bend, and later was the buyer for the
Radio Equipment Co., South Bend Wholesale radio and furniture distributors.
The new manager is residing in his own property on West Thirteenth street which
he purhased recently from C. M. Studebaker. He is married and the father of a
baby boy. Mr. Gast, the owner, is well known to Rochester people andis a member
of the Rochester Country club. He oowns furniture stores at Akron, Kewanna and
Rochester.
Ellis Reed, who operated a new and used furniture store in this same location
for a long number of years has not announced his plans for the future.
The new store's announcement appears in today's edition of The News Sentinel, on
page 2.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, April 25, 1945]
LASER TOBACCO SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Leopold Laser, Dealer in Tobacco, Cigars, Pipes & Confectioneries, Sign of
the Indian, Main Street, Rochester, Ind. . . Oct. 26, 1868.
[Rochester Union-Spy, Thursday, October 29, 1868]
LAST CHANCE SALOON [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Buildings Condemned
See: Rochester Saloons
Probably located NE intersection of 9th and Nickel Plate Railroad, [416 E
9th], later location of Rochester Building Service.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 11, 1959]
Of interest in this newspaper [The Rochester Daily Republican of a
half-century ago] was the church announcement of the Rev. Richard F. Spohn and
his Open Door Mission. Who remembers the Open Door Mission, just across the
Nickel Plate tracks on East 9th street, where it replaced the Last Chance
Saloon? It is long gone now.
Earle A. Miller, Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 25, 1962]
LAUER, BERTHA [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
LAUER CLOTHING STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
Owned by Jacob Lauer
__________
[Adv] - - - - Fall and Winter Clothing - - - Dress & Business suits - - -
- Furnishing Goods - - - Merchant Tailoring - - - N. W. Ferguson, Foreman and
Cutter. LAUER & CO.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 24, 1881]
[Adv] AUCTION! $5,000 worth of CLOTHING to be sold at Auction! - - - for ten
days only. Sale to commence Jan. 20, 1882. Prepare yourself for bargains. JOS.
LAUER.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 14, 1882]
[Adv] The partnership heretofore existing between Lauer & Co., under the
firm name of Lauer & Co., [sic] is this day dissolved by mutual consent.
Jos. Lauer is hereby authorized to collect all debts due said firm, and assume
all liabilities. Jos. Lauer, Marcus Cook.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 21, 1882]
[Adv] - - - - good old-fashioned BARGAINS - - - - JOSEPH LAUER'S, in Masonic
Building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 10, 1883]
JOSEPH LAUER
Clothing Store
A prominent philosopher has said that there is nothing that succeeds like
success, and most certainly there is no better criterion by which we can
estimate merit. Mr. [Joseph] LAUER has been identified in the clothing business
in our city since the year 1867, and his long experience is a sure guarantee of
the quality of goods handled by him.
He is a splendid judge of the goods he handles, and does not in the sale of
goods say: "I bought them for all wool and they ought to be so" but
sells them for what they are. He knows what he handles and always guarantees
everything sold by him to be just as represented. He studies to please and
always makes friends with his customers. Mr. Lauer is a far-seeing gentleman,
and by carefully watching the markets, is enabled to buy judiciously and make
choice selections, thus offering customers certain advantages not easily
duplicated in the city.
The successful prosecution of any business enterprise requires ability and
intelligence, combined with natural genious and taste for business pursuits. The
result is inevitable as it has been proved in the case of this gentleman. The
knowledge of how, when and where to buy goods is an important element in any
business. Mr. Lauer possesses this knowledge, enabling him to give his customers
the full benefit of his large experience, and to furnish them goods at prices as
low as the lowest.
He has made the wants of his many customers a special study and evinces a
studied avoidance of all goods not desirable for his trade. The stock of
clothing carried by this house is of the finest quality. He began with the
determination of keeping nothing but the best of goods from the best known
manufacturers, and he was not long in convincing the people that such was the
case, and during his business career has fully maintained that reputation.
The merchant tailoring department is under the supervision of Mr. H. HARTUNG, a
gentleman whose reputation as a cutter is second to none in the State. They show
some very handsome suitings in this department, of both foreign and American
manufacture and at prices that cannot help but please.
In furnishing goods this house displays one of the finest lines to be seen in
the city, a rich and varied display being made of fine neck wear, toilet
jewelry, dress and driving gloves, fine underwear, shirts, collars and cuffs,
showing all the most standard and celebrated makes.
The house of Mr. Lauer is one of the most popular of our city, his
representations can always be relied upon, and his word is never questioned. His
place of business is south corner of Masonic building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 29, 1888]
[Adv] THIS IS STRAIGHT. The Public will please take notice that I have GONE
UNDER All competition in prices of Merchant Tailoring and Ready Made Clothing. -
- - - THE MODEL, Opposite the Arlington, Jos. LAUER, Proprietor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, September 16, 1891]
[Adv] CLOSING OUT SALE. Having determined to retire from business I offer my
entire stock of Clothing and Gent's Furnishing Goods at ACTUAL COST and some at
less than cost. - - - The goods must be closed out by January 1st - - - Sale
commences Saturday, Nov. 16. JOS. LAUER, Fieser Block, Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 22, 1895]
[Adv] AUCTION!. Saturday, January 2, 1897, I will commence selling my entire
Stock of CLOTHING, HATS, CAPS and GENTS' FURNISHING GOODS, at Auction,- - -
sales to continue Wednesday and Saturday of each week until the whole stock is
closed out. In the meantime everything in stock can be bought at private sale at
25 per cent less than manufacturer's prices. - - -This is a bona fide sale. JOS.
LAUER.
[Rochester SEntinel, Friday, January 1, 1897]
[Adv] GOING OUT OF BUSINESS. - - - - Fixtures for Sale. JOS. LAUER, Feiser
Building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, December 7 1899]
LOCAL NEWS
The Joseph Lauer residence on south Jefferson street was sold today to Mr.
Willis Peters, the piano dealer. It is one of the most commodious homes in
Rochester and occupies a full corner lot. While the price is not given it is
said that it was about $6000. Mr. and Mrs. Lauer will leave Rochester about the
first of December and go to Philadelphia with their daughter, Mrs. Greenawald.
They have long been honored residents of this city and they have many friends
who will regret to see them leave.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 19, 1901]
__________
From the Rochester Sentinel of Vol. XX, No. 27, issued Saturday, July 7,
1877, a few items will interest local citizens who still remember and perhaps
provide names in this community's early history to the younger set.
Joe Lauer advertised men's suits at $6. Ernsperger and Jackson advertised
ladies' hose at 5 cents a pair. L. Heilbrun and Sons advertised good bleached
yard-wide muslin for 6-1/2 cents yard. The Merchant's Dining Hall charged $3 a
week for meals.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 11, 1959]
LAUER & DEICHMAN CLOTHING STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
City Clothing Store. . . . in Downey's Building (Peck's old stand). . . Lauer
& Deichman. Rochester, Ind. Dec. 19, 1867.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, December 19, 1867]
J. A. Awalt. This young man comes to this place well recommended as a
finished workman, and master of his trade, which is that of a jeweler. His shop
is in the Clothing Emporium of Lauer & Deichman . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 9, 1868]
LAUNER GRANITE WORKS [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Monument Markers, Mausoleum Statuary. Granite that never ages. LAUNER
GRANITE WORKS. 1329 Main Street, Rochester, Ind. Designs and prices that please.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, August 2, 1930]
[Adv] Buy from our large display. No salesman commission. Ten different
certified granites! Extra 10% discount for March. LAUNER MONUMENT WORKS, 1500 S.
Main St., Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, March 17, 1938]
LAUTZENHIZER GROCERY [Akron, Indiana]
ORA CLAYTON PURCHASES AKRON GROCERY STORE
Ora Clayton, who came here from Roann some time ago and purchased the Earl Adams
grocery store on the corner of Main and Fifth streets, which he later sold to
Ray Williams, has purchased the Lautzenhiser grocery store at Akron. Clayton has
already taken possession of the store at Akron, where he plans to make his
future home.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 10, 1922]
LaVELLE HAT SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The LaVelle Hat Shop, next door to Hoover's furniture store, is now open and
Misses Brackett & Schmitt will be glad to have every lady in the city and
county call and inspect their latest styles in fall millinary.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, August 31, 1910]
[Adv] - - - - FALL OPENING - - - - LaVELLE HAT SHOP, BRACKETT & SCHMITT.
604 Main St., Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 10, 1910]
LAVELLE HAT SHOP
The "LaVelle Hat Shop" managed by Misses Mary Brackett and Clara
Schmitt is now holding its first annual opening, having commenced today and
lasting over Thursday. - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, September 13, 1910]
[Adv] LaValle Hat Shop - - - - You are invited to make an inspection of these
very latest Models. MARY BRACKETT, Proprietress. 604 Main Street, Rochester,
Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 4, 1913]
[Adv] LaVelle Hat Shop will have on display Wednesday March 18th a complete
line of newest millinery creations. . . . Mary Brackett, proprietress. 604 Main
St.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 13, 1914]
LAWHEAD MILLINERY SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Attention is directed to the Millinery advertisement of Mrs. Banner Lawhead, in
this paper. Her experience and well known taste is a sufficient guarantee that
those who entrust their work to her will not fail to be pleased.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 18, 1859]
LAWRENCE, ELI [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Eli Lawrence was born in Dearborn County, Ind., Septemvber 22, 1842. He is of
German descent and the son of John and Sarah A. Lawrence. He came to this county
in 1865, and on July 7, of the same year, he was united in marriage to Rebecca
J. Adams, a native of this county and born August 19, 1847. Mr. Lawrece had
received a common school education and engaged in farming until within the last
two years, when he became propeietor of the steam flouring mill. It was soon put
in good order and at present commands a large trade. The mill has four run of
buhrs and a grinding capacity of 200 bushels per day. It has been built only
nine years, and does superior work. His father, John Lawrence, was a native of
Pennsylvania, born 1796. His wife was originally Sarah A. Shalter, born in same
State in the year 1805. These parents were married in Dearborn, Ind., and came
to Fulton County in the year 1865. He deceased 1872, and she in 1874. Norman
Adams, the father of Mrs. Lawrence, was a native of New York. He married Eliza
Babcock, of Dearborn County. They settled here at an early date. He deceased
January 30, 1877, his aged companion still survives him. Mr. Lawrence has two
children--Omer, born October 7, 1877; Daisy F., born August 1, 1878.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 24]
LEADER THRESHING CO. [Mt. Taber, Fulton County]
MT. TABER
The Leader Threshing Co. are building new sheds for some of their machinery at
the home of Felix Tobey.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, April 20, 1904]
LEAGUE HARNESS SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
Mr. J. H. League has recently opened a new harness shop, two doors south of
Keith & Calkin's law office . . .
[Rochester Union-Spy, Thursday, November 19, 1868]
LEAR, LEWIS [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
LEARS LAKE [Union Township]
Located approximately 25N and 700W. On the farm owned by Emmet Scott and Fannie
Scott Rumley.
LEAS & HARRIGAN [Marshtown, Indiana]
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Notice is hereby given that the co-partnership heretofore existing between Thos.
J. Leas and Patrick J. Harrigan of Marshtown is dissolved by mutual consent, Mr.
Harrigan retiring. THOS. J. LEAS, PATRICK J. HARRIGAN.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 18, 1890]
LEASURE, C. L. [Kewanna, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - - R. E. Olds, Designer. Reo the Fifth, the 1913 Series $1,095 - - -
- - C. L. LEASURE, Kewanna, Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 27, 1913]
LEASURE, FLOYD J. [Grass Creek, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Floyd J. Leasure was born June 1, 1872, the son of Thomas S. and Elmira (Markle)
Leasure. The father was a farmer and mechanic, and he and his wife were members
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Both are deceased and are buried in the
Grass Creek Cemetery in Fulton county. Floyd J. Leasure received his elementary
education in the graded schools of his home community and in the Kewanna high
school. He then attended Winona College and later Valparaiso University and was
graduated from that institution with the degree of Bachelor of Pedagogy. He next
took the degree of Bachelor of Arts from the same institution. In 1903, he took
up the profession of teaching in Fulton county, having charge of various country
schools for three years. For a period of seven years thereafter, he was an
instructor in the graded schools, and he was then offered a position in the high
school at Grass Creek, holding this position for five years. At the expiration
of that time, his evident ability was rewarded by his appointment as principal
of the Grass Creek high school, and for the past five years he has served in
that capacity with marked success. Mr. Leasure married Fannie Jones, who is also
a teacher, holding the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Pedagogy
received at Valparaiso University. To Mr. and Mrs. Leasure has been born one
child, Wayne. The family affiliates with the United Brethren Church at Grass
Creek. Mr. and Mrs. Leasure recently rented their home, and they are making a
visit in California. It is to be hoped that they decide to return to Fulton
county where they have endeared themselves to the people of the community in
which they have spent so many years.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 229-230, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
LEASURE & LOWRY [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - In advance of All Others - first to have a show room in Rochester,
first in low cost up-keep, first in being a profitable investment rather than a
mere comfort, first in yielding the highest returns -- That is The AUBURN. This
machine is made in three styles -- two sizes of cars and a run-about. - - -
LEASURE AND LOWRY, Show Room in Sheets Bldg.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 11, 1908]
LEAVELL, F. M. [Liberty Township]
BIOGRAPHY
F. M. Leavell, a well known farmer near Fulton, Liberty township, was born in
Miami county, Feb. 25, 1834. His boyhood, youth and manhood have been passed on
the farm. He was brought to Miami county, Ind., 1836, by his father, Richard
Leavell, who died in 1849, aged forty. He married Nancy Dye, who still survives
at eighty-seven. Her children are: Madison, Miami county; Eleanor, deceased,
married E. Lowman; J. W., Miami county; F. M.; J. P., Sarah, wife of George
Marley, this county; Henry H., S. C., Osage county, Kan. Our subject was
partially reared by his grandfather, Robert Leavell, who was born in South
Carolina, went to Ohio as a pioneer and died here. F. M. Leavell got his start
by working for wages. March 25, 1858, he was married in Miami county to Ruth
Ann, a daughter of Eli Chalk, born in England. Mrs. Leavell was born in Cass
county fifty-five years ago. Her children are: R. J., Rochester; J. F., George
C., Nancy E., wife of Edwin Morris; Eva, wife of E. J. Dowd; Edwin E. and Ruth
Gertrude. Mr. Leavell enlisted at Logansport, Ind., in company G, Seventy-third
regiment, I.V.I., and went at once into Kentucky; was in the fight at Stone
river; was on the raid with Col. Straight around Tuscumbia, Ala., and was
captured near Rome, Ga., and taken to Bell island, near Richmond, but was
exchanged at City Point soon after and rejoined the army around Nashville after
a rest from June to November, 1863. Was detailed on the siege guns at Nashville
for a time; served next on Tennessee river in Northern Alabama, and went back to
Nashville at the close of the war and was mustered out about July 1, 1865. He
returned to Perrysburg, Ind., at once and engaged in wagon making there the
following seven years. He commenced farming in 1873 and has continued it since.
He is a republican and has served as supervisor and is highly respected by the
community. He owns a good farm one mile southwest of Fulton.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 99-100]
LEAVELL, JOHN T. [Liberty Township]
BIOGRAPHY
John T. Leavell was born in Cass county October 13, 1861. He was the son of
Francis M. and Ruth A. (Chalk) Leavell, both born in Ohio. His grandfather was
Richard Leavell who married Nancy E. Dey. The Dey family was a prominent one in
Pennsylvania. The young couple decided to come to the western state and entered
land a mile and a half southwest of Perrysburg, cleared and improved it and
lived there until their death. On the paternal side the ancestors were Ely and
Elizabeth Chalk also early settlers of Cass county and farmers like their
fathers. Francis M. Leavell had his only schooling in a log-house in Miami
county, was a soldier in the Civil war for three years and on his return built a
house in Perrysburg and worked at wagon making. In 1872 he traded his property
for forty acres in Fulton county in Liberty township and from that time devoted
himself to the cultivation of his farm. There were seven children born to
Francis M. Leavell and his wife: Richard J. (deceased); John T. (the subject of
our sketch); Nancy E. (deceased); George C.; Eva (deceased); Edwin E., and
Gertrude. Of these, four lived to maturity, the latter, Gertrude being a school
teacher. The original forty acres were traded for 160 which the father and son,
John T., cleared and cultivated. The father passed away on the farm and the wife
in Fulton. John T. Leavell was educated in the Liberty township school and has
always lived on a farm. Thirty-two years of his life he worked at the masons'
trade but has always been a farmer as well. He now owns one hundred and sixty
acres with two sets of buildings southeast of Fulton all of which, except the
house, he put there himself. The farm bears the appropriate name of Sugar Grove
and upon it he keeps blooded stock. His first wife was Miss Emma I. Bloom, a
daughter of John and Sarah Bloom of Liberty township. Their family comprises
three sons and three daughters: viz., Cloe, Della, Clyde, Anna, John Dewy
(deceased), and Garnett. Mr. Leavell married the second time to Mrs. Minnie M.
Cooper daughter of Henry Kimball. He has held several important public offices,
was county commissioner three times, in 1911, in 1914, and from 1917 to 1923.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 230-231, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
LEAVELL, RICHARD [Rochester, Indiana]
Richard Leavell purchased the Home bakery and restaurant last night and is now
in charge. He will keep the best bread, fresh pies and cakes and a complete line
of confectionery.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 24, 1899]
LECRONE HARDWARE [Akron, Indiana]
Lois (Bright) Kinder was employed at the Leckrone Hardware in Akron prior to her
marriage.
LEGAL LOAN CO. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv. - Money! Money! You can borrow up to $300 on your furniture, pianos, live
stock, implements, tractors, etc.. . . . . Odd Fellows Building, Main and West
Ninth sts, over Economy Store . . . .]
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 13, 1923]
LEGION AND CITIZEN'S ROD AND GUN CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
A very interesting meeting of the Legion and Citizen's Rod and Gun Club was held
last night at their headquarters, the Legion Home at 13th and Madison streets. A
large membership was present.
Several projects were introduced and acted upon and several committees were
appointed which are to report at the next meeting.
Application will be made to the state for pheasant eggs. Also quail and raccoon.
A private fish pond for the rearing of bluegill and bass fingerlings will be
established in the near future.
Thirty new members were given cards. It was decided to make all members' wives
honorary members. Light refreshments will be served at the next regular meeting
which will be held in two weeks. All members are requested to be present.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, February 4, 1938]
LEININGER, DANIEL [Akron, Indiana]
DANIEL LEININGER APPOINTED TO FSA ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Announcement has been made by E. H. Shideler, state director of the Farm
Security Administration, of appointment of four new members to the Indiana State
FSA Advisory Committee. Daniel K. Leininger of Akron was one of the appointees.
Leininger is a Purdue man and is one of the representatives of agriculture in
northern Indiana. Although actively engaged in the operation of his farm, his
public positions during the past several years include chairman of the Kosciusko
county AAA committee, president of the county Farm Bureau, member of the county
FSA committee and president of the local REMC.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, August 3, 1945]
LEININGER & SONS, DAN [Akron, Indiana]
AKRON
Dan Leininger will be away from his store over Saturday and Sunday this week,
the first time in all the twenty-two years that he has been in business in
Akron.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, July 30, 1904]
LEININGERS INCORPORATED
In Monday's incorporations is noted the following: Dan Leininger & Sons,
Akron; capital, $30,000; mercantile business; directors, Dan, Willis and Lewis
Leininger.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 30, 1915]
AKRON FIRM DRAWS OPA SUSPENSION OF 20 DAYS
The firm of Dan Leininger & Sons, Akron, have been suspended for a period of
20 days from selling shoes after a hering before OPA Commissioner Frederick S.
Glover of Cleveland, in an inquest held Thursday in South Bend.
The order which becomes effective Monday, Jan. 29, followed investigation by OPA
agents who are said to have charged the Akron firm with a shortage of 181 shoe
stamps on rationed footwear. A charge involving an additional 289 pairs of shoes
sold without stamps, was dropped, it was said.
Leininger & Sons were one of 11 northern Indiana firms to answer before the
commissioner on charges of OPA violations, it was said.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 27, 1945]
A trading station was founded at Beaver Dam by Dan Leininger and his brothers
Elias and Jonas Leininger. Dan drove a huckster wagon from the store. After a
few years the trading station went out of business.
In 1882 Dan and his brother Moses Leininger established a general store in
Akron. In 1897 Dan bought Moses' interest.
He built a brick business building around the turn of the century. (presently
occupied by Harvey Store). Later he purchased the adjoining building W (now the
E half of Day Hardward store).
The business became the largest department store in Fulton County.
His sons continued to operate the store: Willis was overall manager, Lew had
men's clothing department, Earl managed the shoe department, while Roy handled
the grocery department.
Went out of business after 87 years in June, 1963.
[Dan Leininger & Sons, Charles Daniel Smith, Fulton Co. Folks,Vol. 1,
Willard]
LEININGER INSURANCE AGENCY [Akron, Indiana]
Mary Margaret Rittenhouse Leininger, [Mrs. Harold LeRoy Leininger], was branch
supervisor of the Peru Garment Factory located over the Akron Locker Plant. They
made women's blouses in this branch. In 1957 she purchased from E. E. Gerig his
insurance agency which is now called Leininger Insurance Agency located on East
Rochester Street in Akron.
[Leininger-Krause Family, Charles Daniel Smith, Faye Leininger Smith, Kate
Morris Jennens, and Violet Titterton, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LEITER, ELI [Union Township]
BIOGRAPHY
The subject of this sketch was born in Seneca County, Ohio, March 20, 1845;
moved with his parents, John and Sarah Leiter, to Indiana in the fall of 1845;
settled on the bank of the Tippecanoe River, in Aubbeenaubbee Township, Fulton
County, at the place known as Leiters Ford, where he remained with his parents,
working on the farm and watching his father's flock. Like those in a new
country, he received but a limited education until he was of age, when he
commenced teaching in the winter and attending higher schools in the spring and
fall, making his own way and paying his own expenses. In 1808, he engaged as
clerk in the store of Phillips & Leiter, of Kewanna, remaining with them
about ten years, during that time never hired at any stipulated price, except
one year; would settle at the end of each year and take what they were pleased
to give, which was from $40 to $60 per month.
While in the employ of Phillips & Leiter, he, with J. C. Phillips, edited
and published the Kewanna Times, for a period of nearly two years.
On Sunday, May 1, 1870, he was united in the bonds of matrimony with Mary L.
McCarter, widow of the late Alexander E. McCarter, of the Eighty-seventh Indiana
Volunteers. They bought a residence on Logan street, and commenced keeping house
shortly after they were married, where they remained until they moved on their
farm a quarter mile west of Kewanna,where they now live.
A part of the house in which they now live was built by John Troutman, and is
the oldest house in or near Kewanna. It is built of plank sawed by hand. In an
early day it was used as a Methodist home and church.
Their family consisted of five children--Josie (step-daughter) was born May 25,
1861; remained with her parents until January 12, 1881, when she was married to
Dr. E. L. Fosdick; they lived over a year in Kewanna, then moving to Butler,
Ind., where they now live. Jennie Maud was born February 2, 1871, died February
6, 1873; Arthur E. was born September 8, 1873; Susie Grace was born June 30,
1876; Settie Pearl was born June 20, 1879; Olive was born January 26, 1881.
Religiously, he was a zealous Methodist; politically, a sterling Democrat; as a
temperance man, was one of the first to advocate prohibition. His wife, Mary L.
Ritchey, was born in Cass County, Ind., June 19, 1840; was married to Alexander
E. McCarter, September 30, 1858. He enlisted in Company E, Eighty-seventh
Regiment Indiana Volunteers in 1862; died in hospital in Nashville, Tenn.,
November 13, 1863.
Her parents, James Ritchey and Susan Cain, came to Fulton County in 1838; were
married in Pleasant Grove (now Kewanna) July 25, 1839. James Ritchey was born
September 4, 1819; died at Monterey, Ind., December 6, 1866; was buried in the
old cemetery, near Kewanna. Susan Ritchey was born August 8, 1821; lived in and
near Kewanna most of her life; was the mother of ten children, and only two were
born in one house, and they were twins. She now lives in Bourbon, Ind.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 58]
LEITER, FRANKLIN [Rochester Township]
BIOGRAPHY
This estimable gentleman was born in Seneca County, Ohio, July 16, 1837. He is
the son of John and Sarah Leiter, who were natives of Pennsylvania, but settled
in Ohio in their younger years, and came to Fulton County, Ohio [sic], in 1845.
The subject of this sketch is the eldest of a family of nine children. He spent
his younger years laboring on his father's farm and attending the common
district schools. But feeling the need of a higher education, he attended the
schools of Logansport for a time, also the Valparaiso Male and Female College,
and was for a number of years engaged in teaching in the country schools of
Fulton County, and was recognized as one of the best instructors of the county.
He was united in marriage April 2, 1863, to Caroline Edinger, a native of
Pittsburgh, Penn., born March 29, 1842. She is the daughter of Peter and Dortha
Edinger; both were natives of Germany.
Mr. and Mrs. Leiter have been blessed with the birth of three children--Ida M.,
born April 28, 1864; Orville B., born October 20, 1866, and deceased November
13, 1871, and Arizona, born January 23, 1878.
He is now pleasantly located on his farm of 166 acres, in the western part of
Rochester Townsip, in Section 28. He has every convenience incident to farm
life, and has his land under a high state of cultivation.
He is a licensed minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which himself
and wife have been members most all of their lives. He is widely known and
universally recognized as an earnest supporter of every commendable enterprise,
and labors diligently for the elevation of the moral element of the community.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 29]
LEITER, JACOB [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Jacob Leiter, farmer and dealer in stock, P.O. Rocheser, son of John and Barbara
(Witmer) Leiter, who were natives of Pennsylvania, born in 1784, the former in
Juniata County January 2, and the latter in Union County December 24. The
subject of our sketch was also born in Union County, Penn. February 13, 1824.
His parents deceased when he was but three years of age. He then lived among
strangers until he arrived at the age of fourteen, when he started out into the
world to do for himself. In 1841, he became a resident of Seneca County, Ohio,
and there learned and worked at the carpenter's business in 1846, when he
migrated to Fulton County, Ind., and settled on the farm where he now resides.
He, with his small family, lived during the first winter in a sheep stable. Mr.
Leiter has been twice married; first, May 16, 1844, to Mary Cramer, who was born
in Seneca County, Ohio, December 18, 1828, daughter of Peter Cramer, who was a
native of Pennsylvania. This union was a happy one, but on January 13, 1861,
death entered the home circle and took from it the beloved wife and mother. Mr.
Leiter was again married May 16, 1861, to Lydia A. Rose, who was born in
Fairfield County, Ohio, September 18, 1842, daughter of Levi and Mary M. (Rader)
Rose. For many years after Mr. Leiter came to the county he was engaged in the
carpenter, cabinet and coffin-making business. He is truly a pioneer of the
county, and has been well schooled in the hardships and privations incident to
pioneer life, but by energy, industry and strict economy, he has succeeded in
accumulating for himself an abundant supply of this world's goods, and is now
surrounded with all the necessaries and comforts of life. He owns 802 acres of
land in the county. His residence is in Section 30. He is extensively engaged in
farming, breeding, buying and shipping stock. Mr. Leiter is a member of
Rochester I.O.O.F., No. 47, and he and his worthy lady are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Leiter has had nineten children born to him,
nine by his first wife and ten by his second, viz William, born March 14, 1846;
Catharine, born March 11, 1848; Melissa, born December 11, 1849; Alonzao, born
July 17, 1851; John S. C., born April 15, 1854; Mary and Margaret, born January
15, 1856; Jacob, born June 4, 1857; Sidney, born February 13, 1860; Jane, born
May 25, 1862; Barbary A., born February 1, 1864; Ada, born December 17, 1865;
Minna V., born February 14, 1868; Laura, born December 1, 1869; Ulysses, born
November 6, 1871; Levi, born August 18, 1873; Eli, born September 27, 1875;
Lydia A., born February 2, 1878; and Mollie, born April 16, 1880.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, pp. 29-30]
LEITER, JEREMIAH [Union Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Jeremiah Leiter, son of John and Sarah (Barger) Leiter, was born December 15,
1838, in Seneca County, Ohio. He came to Fulton County, Ind., with his parents
in the seventh year of his age, and has passed the greater portion of his life
in this county. His early years were passed on the home farm, and his services
were contributed toward its cultivation and improvement, excepting in the winter
season, when he attended school in the old log schoolhouse that stood on his
father's farm. In the fall of 1859, he accepted the position of teacher in this
house, and taught there during the succeeding winter. With the wages thus
earned, he went to Logansport in the following spring, and attended school at
the seminary one term. During the summer, he worked for his father on the farm,
and in the fall entered the college at Valparaiso, Ind. In the following winter
he taught school near his home, returning to Valparaiso in the spring. And thus
he continued teaching in the winter and attending the college at Valparaiso,
working with his father in the interim between the close of the college term and
the beginning of the winter term of the district schools.
On the 16th of November, 1863, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Jane Shaffer,
daughter of Phineas Phillips and widow of Henry Shaffer, who died November 12,
1859. During the winter following his marriage, as in the two preceding, Mr.
Leiter taught school in the "Scotland Schoolhouse," two miles east of
Kewanna. In the spring of 1864, he embarked in mercantile pursuits at Kewanna,
with his brother-in-law, Hickman Phillips. At the earnest solicitation of
residents of the district, he consented to teach in the Scootland Schoolhouse
again during the winter of that year. At the close of that term, he again began
to give his attention exclusively to his mercantile interests. Close confinement
in the store proved injurious to his health, and in 1874 he perfected plans to
go to California. Just on the eve of starting, however, he was approached by his
party friends, who insisted that he should become the Democratic candidate for
joint representative from the counties of Fulton and Kosciusko. It was then
within about three weeks of election day, and Mr. Leiter at first refused to
accept the proffered honor; but, upon their persistent importunities, he finally
yielded a reluctant consent and became the candidate of his party, but made very
little effort in his own behalf during the few remaining days of the canvass. Of
his candidacy the Rochester Sentinel said: "His acceptance of the
nomination is one instance, if there never was another, in which the office
sought the man, and not the man the office." He did not anticipate his
election, as there was a political difference to overcome of more than five
hundred votes in the district; yet, such was his personal popularity, that,
notwithstanding the unfavorable conditions, he gave his opponent a lively chase,
and was defeated by only two votes in the district. On the 27th of November,
1874, he started, with his wife, to California, stopping, en route, in Illinois
and Nebraska, and arriving at San Francisco in December. He visited the various
places of interest in the State, traveling, in all, about seven thousand miles,
and rapidly regaining his health. He returned to his home in June, 1875. In
1876, with his wife and Hickman Phillips and daughter, he went to Rochester,
Minn., to witness the marriage of Mr. Phillips to Miss Jennie Calvert, of that
city. Meeting a number of friends in Chicago, on their journey homeward after
the wedding, all started to Philadelphia to visit the Centennial Exposition.
During the journey, Mr. Leiter and party visited other places of interest,
including Niagara Falls, Albany, New York City, and from the latter place to
Philadelphia. After spending a few days among the wonders of the centennial,
they went to Baltimore, thence to Washington, at Mount Vernon. Here, after
examining the various mementoes of the great General, Mr. Leiter ate supper in
the old kitchen so long used by Martha Washington, and afterward resumed the
journey, visiting various places in Virginia, Ohio and Indiana, and vinally
returning to his home at Kewanna. Finding his health again giving way under the
pressure of business, he sold his interest in the stock to his partner, Mr.
Phillips, in September, 1877, and in January 1878, started to Florida with his
wife, spending the greater part of the winter in Pensacola, visiting New Orleans
and other Southern cities, and returning to his home in the community, and is
widely known and universally esteemed. As a business man his career has been
marked by honesty and integrity, and in all his dealings with his fellow-men he
has won and retained their confidence and good will. Both himself and wife are
active and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in the
social circle occupy a place which none but they can fill so well.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 58]
LEITER, JOHN, JR. [Union Township]
BIOGRAPHY
The subject of this sketch was an early settler of Fulton County, and for many
years one of its most active and prominent citizens. He was born October 25,
1813, in Union County, Penn. His father, John Leiter, Sr., was born in the same
State in January, 1784, and was married there to Barbara Whitmore. Both himself
and wife were born in 1784, and both died in 1828, leaving eight orphan
children. The subject of this sketch was but fifteen years of age when his
parents died, and at this early age began to battle with the world, and learned
to rely largely upon himself as the architect of his fortune. Within a few years
after the death of his parents, he removed to Seneca County, Ohio, and was
married there, in 1836, to Miss Sarah Barger. With his family and a few hundred
dollars, the father started to Indiana in the fall of 1845, making the journey
in a wagon. He located on the south bank of the Tippecanoe, in Aubbeenaubbee
Township, and began the labor of clearing and imroving a farm.
Upon his arrival, he constructed a rude shanty for the shelter of his family, by
placing posts in the ground and nailing boards upon them, covering the house
with similar boards. His second house was constructed entirely of tamarack logs,
and was long known as the "Tamarack Hotel." Under many trying
circumstances, and the hardships incident to pioneer life, he proceeded with the
labor of "making" a farm, and for nearly thirty years was closey
identified with the history of the township. Modesty was a prevailing feature of
his character, and while he was zealous in his party fealty, and took an active
interst in the public affairs of the day, he never sought official position;
yet, at the request of his friends, he consented to serve as Justice of the
Peace, and was repeatedly re-elected to this office, without any effort on his
own part. He also served as Trustee of Aubbeenaubbee Township for a number of
years.
On the13th of February, 1851, his wife died, leaving in his care a large family,
some of whom were quite young. Her remains were conveyed to their last rest on
the home farm, while it was necessary to clear away the underbrush to make a
path to the grave. Thus consecrated, this spot became a cemetery, and within its
enclosure many citizens of the township were afterward laid in eternal sleep.
His second wife was Miss Martha King, of Fulton County, Ind., to whom he was
married on the 14th of May, 1853. She still survives, with her family.
During the many years that Mr. Leiter was identified with the Methodist
Episcopal Church he led a consistent Christian life, and in all his dealings
with the world he was governed by a high sense of honor and justice, and all who
knew him in life honor his memory. He died on the 18th of July, 1873, in the
sixtieth year of his age, and the esteem in which he was universally held was
attested by the large number of people who attended his funeral, and bestowed
the last sad honors upon the dead.
Of brothers and sisters a few words may be appropriately said. Left to take care
of themselves, the family naturally became separated, and its several members
sought homes in various localities. Each prospered, and through industry and
honest effort acquired fortunes ranging from $5,000 to $75,000, and all
sustained the character of excellent citizens, some occupying positions of honor
and responsibility. It is a fact worthy of mention, that not one of their number
ever acquired the appetite for strong drink, and only one ever indulged in the
use of tobacco. After their separation, they were never all together at one
time, until May 16, 1873, on which occasion they met, in family re-union, at
Bellevue, Ohio, with their children and grandchildren.
Elizabeth, the eldest daughter, married Jacob Burm, and now resides at Bellevue,
Ohio; Barbara married Mr. Spicher, and now lives in Pennsylvania; Abraham lives
in the city of Bellevue, Ohio, where he conducts an extensive tannery. He has
served as Mayor of Bellevue, and occupied other positions of honor and trust.
John is the next in order of age. His life has been detailed in the foregoing
sketch. Mary married David Arnold, and now lives in Seneca County, Ohio; Mattie
married Isaac Shellenberger, and resides near Kingston, DeKalb Co., Ill.; Anna
married Mr. Baseover, who died; she was subsequently wedded to Mr. Myers, her
present companion, and now resides in Pennsylvania; Jacob, the youngest of the
family, now resides in Fulton County, Ind., having emigrated hither about the
year 1850.
The children of John Leiter, Jr., by the first marriage, now living, are
Franklin, Jeremiah, William, Jane, Eli, Lydia and Lucinda, and by the second
marriage, now living, John and Margaret. Franklin married Caroline Edinger, and
now lives on a farm near Leiters Ford, in this county. William married Eliza
Hickman, and lives in Rochester; Jane married G. W. Simonton, and now lives in
Vallejo, Cal.; Eli married Mary McCarter, and lives a half-mile west of Kewanna;
Lydia married William Biddinger, and lives five miles north of Rochester;
Lucinda, unmarried, lives in Kewanna; John married Alice Cleland, and now lives
in Kewanna, and Margaret, wife of Nelson Bennett, lives in Union Township, this
county.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, pp. 57-58]
LEITER, WILLIAM J. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
William J. Leiter, of the firm of Leiter & Hickman, proprietors of the
Pottawatomie Flouring Mills, Rochester, Ind., is a native of Seneca County,
Ohio, and was born April 17, 1840. He came with his parents to this county in
1845, where he has resided ever since. He attended school in the rural districts
and at Valparaiso Male and Female College. He was married, December 27, 1865, to
Eliza A. Hickman, who was born in 1841, in this county. These parents have seven
children, four sons and three daughtrs--Lucinda, Carlie E., John C., Jennie,
William C., Leslie and ------. He took charge of the Pottawatomie Mills of
Rochester on January 23,1877, which has a grinding capacity of 100 bushels of
flour every twelve hours. It has five run of buhrs and thoroughly renovated
throughout, being well supplied with new screens, purifiers, and bolting
apparatus. The mill is 40 feet by 60 feet, and has a storage capacity of 20,000
bushels of wheat. It is also supplied with the best waterpower in the State. The
firm buys grain of all kinds, for which they pay the highest market price. Mr.
Leiter was originally a farmer, and at the present time owns some of the best
lands in the county.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 24]
[Adv] ERIE ELEVATOR, Rochester, Indiana, where you can also sell your grain
at the highest market price. Clover and Timothy Seed and Flour for sale. Wheat
and Oats, as well as Corn dumped with the latest improvised dumper. W. J.
LEITER, Prop.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 11, 1903]
BIOGRAPHY
William J. Leiter, now deceased, was for many years associated with many
activities at Rochester and in Fulton county, and when he died his home
community lost an excellent citizen, and one who always had its best interests
at heart. He was born in Seneca county, Ohio, April 17, 1840. His educational
training was limited to that afforded by the public schools and six months'
attendance at Valparaiso University. During 1861-2, he commenced teaching
school, and continued in the educational field for the subsequent eight years,
but for a number of years his main calling was farming, and he continued to own
two farms of 225 acres in Fulton county until his death. In 1876 he built a mill
and elevator at Rochester, and conducted these two enterprises as long as he
lived. This property was destroyed by fire in 1895, but he rebuilt immediately.
A man of public spirit, he backed with his money and influence different
enterprises, among others the building of the concrete dam, the only one which
has held the waters of Lake Manitou, and which is still in good condition. For
many years he belonged to the Grange, and served the local council as secretary.
He married Miss Eliza A. Hickman, and they had eight children, six of whom
survive: Charles, Della, Jennie, Will C., May and Fred. One of his grandsons,
Donald, was a veteran of the World War, and saw service overseas. His honorable
discharge from the army followed the signing of the armistice. Mrs. Leiter died
September 5, 1908. She was a good wife and mother, excellent neighbor, and a
devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which her husband was also a
member, having joined it in 1858. Mr. Leiter died May 19, 1923.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 231-232, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
LEITER & HICKMAN [Rochester, Indiana]
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Notice is hereby given that the firm of Leiter & Hickman is this day
dissolved by mutual consent, and that all persons knowing themselves indebted to
said firm are hereby notified that settlement must be made without delay, at
their old place of business. LEITER & HICKMAN, Rochester, July 17, '85.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 29, 1885]
LEITER ELEVATOR [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
LEITER FAMILY [Fulton County, Indiana]
LEITER FAMILY REUNION at Bellevue, Ohio, May 16th, 1873. Eight Orphan Children.
JOHN LEITER, Sen, was born in Pennsylvania, Jan. 2d , 1784. His wife BARBARA
WHITMORE, was born in the same year, and both died in the same year, leaving
eight orphan children.
THE CHILDREN. - ELIZABETH was born April 4th, 1808, was married to Mr. JACOB
BURM, and now lives in Bellevue, Ohio. She is the mother of five children, has
had thirty-nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. BARBARA was born
December 4th, 1809, and lived to be what might be termed a very old maid, but
being tired of living a single life, and having "no one to love her, and
none to caress," she married a Mr. SPICHER in the 57th year of her age. She
now lives in Pennsvlvania. ABRAHAM was born April 6th, 1812, and now lives in
Bellevue, Ohio. He is a tanner by trade, and as a tradesman, perhaps far excells
the President of the United States. He has occupied stations of honor, and at
present is Mayor of the city in which he lives. He is the father of twelve
children and fifteen grandchildren. JOHN was born October 25th, 1813. He moved
to this state in 1845, where he has lived ever since. He is well known to most
of the readers of the SENTINEL, and of his life and honors we need not speak. He
is the father of fifteen children, and six grandchildren. MARY was born
September 15th, 1815, and now lives in Seneca county, Ohio. She is married to
Mr. DAVID ARNOLD, and is the mother of ten children. MATTIE was born July 23d,
1817; was married to Mr. ISAAC SHELLENBERGER, and now lives near Kingston,
DeKalb county, Ills. She is the mother of nine children and six grandchildren.
ANNA was born April 6th, 1820, was married to a Mr. BASEOVER who is now dead,
and she was married a second time to Mr. MYERS, and now lives in Pennsylvania.
She is the mother of 8 children and 3 grandchildren. JACOB was born Feb. 4th,
1824, being the voluigest of the family. He now resides in this county, where he
is well known by many citizens of the same. He is the father of fifteen
children.
The family of eight children now live in four different states, two in
Pennsylvania, three in Ohio, two in Indiana and one in Illinois. Previous to
their meeting on the 16th and 17th of May, they had not all met at one time for
forty-five years. The aggregate of their ages at the time of the familv meeting,
was 465 years, making an average of 58 years. We cannot say that they are
enjoving good health, but for a family of that age and number, we might consider
it exceedingly good. They are all in good circumstances in life, being worth
from five to twenty-five thousand dollars each, but what is far better, they
have all sustained good characters, and none have formed a taste for strong
drinks, and but one uses tobacco in any form. This family of eight and their
companions, and children, sixty-nine in number, seventy-five grandchildren and
four great-grandchildren, comprise the Leiter family, making in all 164
including the number that are now sleeping in the grave.-ELI LEITER.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 21, 1873]
LEITERS FORD, INDIANA [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Located in Section 23.
__________
LEITERS
The new foundry and boiler shop is now completed and the machinery and all
equipments are expected this week. Wm. Ralston will be foreman and will take
charge of the iron working department and Robert Davidson will have charge of
the wood working department. They will do general blacksmithing in connection
with it. It has a very fine location in one of the busiest little burgs in
northern Indiana and will be known as the Leiters Ford Construction Company.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 7, 1902]
William Hunter settled on the S side of the Tippecanoe river in 1840, and was
the first white settler at a shallow place in the river which he used as a ford.
The community became known as Hunter's Ford, and when he sold to Leiter family,
it was known as Leiter's Ford. Another source reports that Henry and Mary
(Shadel) Ginther, with others, were the first white settlers in Aubbeenaubbee
township.
Platted August 4, 1882. Three streets: River, Main and North.
The first grocery store, built by John Biddinger in 1861 (located near where the
restaurant was standing around 1970), later purchased by Samuel Sturgeon,
burned. Next, a store was built by Frank Sexton. In 1868 Herman Geisinger built
the first blacksmith shop on the John Leiter lot just west of the Leiter log
cabin. He later remodeled the log cabin and, instead, built mostly a frame house
there -- the same house which Clyde Castleman removed.
Wick's Mill was constructed around 1880 where Cripe Elevator was later located.
In 1888 Wilson Brugh started his store, remodeling the former Sexton store,
where he remained until 1904 when he went into the new brick store building in
connection with the hardware of John Campbell.
In 1878 Mr. and Mrs. Storm emigrated from Ohio and built a small store and
living quarters on the same spot that Overmyer block store building was
constructed later. Their son-in-law, Dr. B. F. Overmyer (just out of medical
school and married to their daughter, Nellie Storm) moved to Leiters Ford in
1882 where he started practice of medicine. They lived in a small frame house
with later became the home of Avon and Barbara Murray.
The same year Dr. Overmyer came here, he and Mr. Storm remodeled the Storm
building making an office for Dr. Overmyer on the west and a drug department and
a second floor hall where the I.O.O.F. conducted lodge meetings.
In 1884 the first post office was opened and the first mail was delivered to the
Leiters Ford Post Office.
In 1885 the first river bridge was built across the Tippecanoe River at Leiters
Ford.
In 1886 Isaac Hill built the first saw mill just east of the present elevator.
In 1890 John B. Campbell opened a hardware store and harness shop in the same
building occupied by Hiatt Electric Shop around the 1970's. This was east of the
Overmyer store building.
In 1895 the Baptist Church was built at the south part of town (The dwelling
owned by Eugene and Doris Overmyer around 1970).
George King built and operated a saloon just south of his residence, the home
around 1970 of Dale Severn family. The saloon burned about 1901.
A livestock yard was constructed by the railroad company in 1895, located just
west of where a new fertilizer plant was built around 1970.
In 1888 a milk house was built on the railroad property just west of the depot,
or Leiters Station, as the name on it signified. This was a delivery house where
the farmers delivered their milk in metal cans each morning. The railroad
furnished a "milk train" (a combination baggage, express, mail and
passenger train), which left Huntington, Indiana each morning, arriving in
Leiters Ford near 8:00 a.m. to pick up the cans of fresh milk destined for
processing in Chicago. Harvey Ralston was the attendant for several years,
followed by Albert Yelton who also was there several years.
In 1895 Dr. Overmyer built his fine home at NW corner of 750W and Delong road.
Charley Troutman at one time had a blacksmith shop on the Ray Davis lot at the
north bordering the alley. The shop burned.
During the early 1890's an elevator was built on railroad property where the new
fertilizer plant stands, and was operated by John Engle for a few years until it
burned.
In 1952 Howard Shock from Culver opened a barber shop in Fred Brugh's old shop.
In 1953 an addition was built on the north end of Hawk's Garage Office and Mr.
Shock moved his shop there. Later, in 1964, Mr. Shock built a new barber shop on
N side of the street between the Post Office and Hiatt's Electric shop.
A building stood on the triangular lot across from the present restaurant, which
was the site of a barber shop for many years. In 1901 Lorenzo Luckenbill and his
wife, Myrtle, moved to Leiters Ford and he opened a barber shop in the same
building.
He later became the undertaker, being located on the SE corner of 750W and the
Delong road in a frame building. After his death in 1943, the undertaking
business was conducted by Ora Foster for several years. Then the building was
torn down.
In 1900 a lumber yard was built by Isaac Hill and Frank Rouch just east of the
present elevator. The same year the first telephone system was installed which
also extended into the country homes.
About 1901 Albert V. Durr opened a livery barn and breeding stable where the
Sage Welding shop later was located.
In 1903 Adam Reish built and operated a blacksmith shop at the site of what is
Hawk's Garage.
In 1904 Wilson Brugh grocery store was located W side of 750W in the S half of
the brick building which housed in the N half the John Campbell Hardware and
Harness Shop.
In 1906 Dr. Overmyer removed the east and west portions of the old store
building and moved the main part of the building North along the alley where at
one time Charley Bertraud, a crippled man, had a shoe repair shop. He also had
operated a small shoe repair shop in the same small building [sic] just west of
the Ray Davis residence on the extreme south end of the lot which is part of the
Severn lot. After removing this entire store building, Dr. Overmyer, together
with the Odd Fellow Lodge Membership, built the new block store building and
Doctors' Office and Drug Department in the entire lower floor, the Lodge paying
for the construction of the upper floor and roof of the building.
In 1907 the back room was added to the east side of this building, together with
more store room to the north of the back and a hall for dining room on the upper
floor for the I.O.O.F. and Rebekah Lodges.
The first automobile in Leiters Ford was purchased in 1907 by Dr. Overmyer.
The Alspach Brothers built the frame cider mill and sorghum factory in 1912 just
north of the school building and operated it until it burned in 1948.
In 1915 Fred Brugh had his barber shop in the old hardware building which
recently was the site of Hiatt Electric shop.
Electricity came to Leiters Ford in 1922, when the power line was built
extending from the line at the Omer Lewis farm crossroad. The residents had to
subscribe $2,000 cash for the electric company in order to get it done.
In 1925 L. Luckenbill built the block garage directly across the street from his
residence (the Severns residence as of around 1970) which was operated by Jesse
D. Williams for a number of years. It was later owned by W. E. Gooch of
Rochester for the repair of his heavy road equipment. The building collpased
with a very heavy load of snow in the winter of 1965-66. In 1966 Mr. Gooch
removed the rubble, and constructed a very modern furnished shop (with modern
equipment) which is a much larger building and a wonderful improvement to the
town.
In 1920 Arthur Bryan built a pool room and confectionery, which burned in 1922.
The Sage Welding Shop was built in 1931 at the same location.
Three Secret Orders at one time used the hall above the Campbell Hardware store:
The Macabees, The Red Men and The Gleaners.
The old Overmyer & Anderson store building (which stood where the restaurant
is) was abandoned, and in 1954 was razed by Fred and Paul Stayton and some
material from it was used in construction of the present restaurant building.
Around 1900 a building stood next door S of the present restaurant building. It
was used as a meat market by Tony Zimmer. Later it was a place to dispense beer,
by law allowing no beer to be drunk on the premises. The building was later
purchased by Overmyer & Anderson and moved to the rear of their store
building to house their truck which was used as a Huckster Truck, serving
country people on regular trips with groceries.
For many years an annual picnic was held on the first Saturday of August on an
island in the Tippecanoe River just east of the river bridge. When the property
changed hands the new owner used it for farming, and the picnics ended. A
Business Men's Association was created and they started the Strawberry Festival,
which was held in early June of each year, until it had grown so large that the
effort was too much for the people to handle any more, so it was finally
discontinued. [Guy A. Shadel, as quoted in Fulton County Folks, by Shirley
Willard]
My first look at the town of Leiters Ford was when I came by horse and buggy one
Sunday afternoon to Delong in about 1903. On weekdays I worked hard but on
Sundays I enjoyed pitching baseball. There was a game between Delong and
Monterey, and I was hired to pitch for the sum of $1.50. Later in the early
1900's I returned to Leiters Ford to fish.
Leiters Ford was buzzing with activity in the early 1900's. The first telephone
system had been installed. There was the Erie Railroad, a new block store
building on the corner across from Dr. Overmyer's new home, post office,
boarding house, lumber yard, livery stable, shoe repair shop, jewelry and
furniture store, funeral parlor and bank. Also there were two churches: Saints
Church south of the Railroad tracks, and the Methodist Church. The local
physician was Dr. B. F. Overmyer.
[Stayton Family, Mrs. Robert McGriff and Mrs. Ralph Stayton, Fulton Co. Folks,
Vol. 1, Willard]
In 1845, John Leiter built the first log cabin in what is now the town of
Leiters Ford, on the SW corner where the Leiters Ford Bank was located later.
The first school was erected in 1847 on his farm, built of logs south of town on
the E side of the road. In 1884 another school house was built on the W side of
the road, later used as a residence until it burned in January 1975.
Peter Biddinger started a store in 1861. Herman Geisinger opened a blacksmith
shop in 1868, and the town began to grow.
The town was platted by the county surveyor, Silas J. Miller. It had only 14
lots and three streets: River, Main and North. Gamby's addition on the west was
platted July 3, 1883, and Storm and Overmyer's addition on the east, October 8,
1884.
In 1884 mail delivery by train began and a post office was established in the
hardware store. Prior to that the mail came to a small post office northeast of
the town and a horseback rider had to ford the river to bring the mail to town.
The bridge across the river was built in 1885. A grist mill was started that
same year by Wicks and Weir.
The first telephone system was installed in 1900.
In 1922 the town got electricity and in 1956 street lights were installed.
The old depot, preserved as a township and railroaders' museum by Woodie and
Wilma McGlothin, was deeded by them to the Fulton County Historical Society in
1977.
[Leiters Ford Across the River, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
Peter Biddinger started a store in Leiters Ford in 1861.
[Peter Biddinger, Biddinger Family, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
Leiters Ford is proud of the Bowen family who resided there and operated a
hardware store for several years: Vernie Bowen [1898-1983] and Pearl I. Bowen
[1899-1987], parents of Governor Otis Bowen.
See Leiters Ford Methodist Church; Wil-Wood Cafe.
__________
LEITERS
The old Leiters Mill closed last Friday. A party in Texas owns the mill and
demands more rent than the miller can afford to pay.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, August 22, 1907]
LEITERS
The Erie R.R. is going to extend their switch south to the Myers crossing or the
fatal crossing as it is generally called. They will also open up the Leiters
depot at nights thereby employing two more operators.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 18, 1909]
KEWANNA
Kewanna Herald.
Two elevators in this part of the county changed hands the first of the year,
that of A. B. Toner in Kewanna, and that of A. A. Campbell at Leiters Ford. The
new owners of the Kewanna institution are L. H. Jordan of Indianapolis and F. J.
Baird of Advance. John L. Hoesel, of Monon, puchased the bnusiness of Mr.
Campbell. In both cases the new owners took charge Jan. 1. Mr. Hoesel, the new
owner of the Leiters Ford elevator, is a former Monterey man, a son-in-law of
Daniel Bruce, and is known to many in the western part of the county. B. B.
Campbell, who has been manager of the Campbell elevator, will be retained by the
new owner. The consideration of the Leiters elevator was $5,000.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 6, 1912]
FREE SHOWS AT LEITERS
At a mass meeting held recently at the I.O.O.F. Hall in Leiters Ford, it was
decided to hold a free show at that place every Wednesday night.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, June 5, 1928]
QUITTING BUSINESS
O. J. Brugh, well known grocer and general store operator at Leiters Ford, has
announced a going out of business sale which starts Friday of this week. Mr.
Brugh's plans for the future are not available at the present date.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 31, 1929]
DEDICATE SERVICE PLAQUE AT LEITERS FORD SCHOOL
Several members of the Leroy Shelton Post of the American Legion and the
Auxiliary attended the War Service Plaque dedicatory exercises held Friday
evening at the Leiters Ford H.S. building.
The plaque contained the names of former H.S. students who are now in the
service of their country. The list included two gold stars.
The main address for this occasion was given by Ralph E. Klare, state chaplain
of the American Legion. Music was provided by the Leiters High School band.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 14, 1944]
SELLS LUMBER YARD
The Leiters Ford lumber yard, under control of the Holzbauer family has been
sold according to Joe Holzbauer, manager, to Joseph Martin of Lucerne, who will
take possession in the very near future.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, April 26, 1945]
BUYS INTEREST
Announcement has been made of the purchase by Robert Overmyer of a half interest
in the Leiters Ford garage with Dale Davis who has operated the place for some
time. The new member is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Overmyer of Richland
township.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, December 7, 1945]
LEITERS FORD BAND [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
LEITERS FORD BANK [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
Located next door E of Overmyer Store, which was on the NE corner of 750W and
and the Delong road.
The bank was opened in 1907 with Dr. B. F. Overmyer, President, and Frank Rouch,
Cashier. The Bank operated at the above address until 1957 whenthe new building
was built on the SW corner of the same intersection.
A branch bank was located in Rochester in a building that originally housed J.
W. Brubaker Garage, later Deeds Equipment Co., and still later Kroger Store.
__________
BANK FOR LEITERS
Leiters is to have a banking institution in the near future which will be known
as the Leiters Ford Bank.
A stock company has been formed with a capitalization of $10,000 and a cement
block building has already been built adjoining the Dr. B. F. Overmyer building
in the main part of the town. The fixtures are all in position and the bank will
be open for business Dec.2.
The officers elected at a recent meeting of the stockholders are Dr. B. F.
Overmyer, Pres; Isaac Hill Vice-Pres.; and Recorder F. E. Rouch cashier. The
latter named gentleman is at present engaged in being schooled in the methods
pursued in his new vocation, at the First National bank of this city where he
receives instructions from Omar B. Smith and Arthur Copeland. All parties
concerned in this new enterprise are highly respected citizens of the county and
no doubt will prove a boon to the depositors with whom they deal.
Recorder F. E. Rouch will go to Leiters to be present at the opening of the
institution and will remain there while his wife will tend the duties of the
office until the end of the year when Mr. Rouch's term expires.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, October 24, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The new Leiters bank opened this morning with F. E. Rouch as cashier. The
outlook for the bank is fine as that locality has long needed a like
institution. Mrs. Rouch will have charge of the Recorder's office until the
expiration of Mr. Rouch's term.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, December 2, 1907]
FRANK E. ROUCH, AGE 48, IS DEAD
Frank E. ROUCH, 48, cashier of the Leiters Ford bank and an ex-county recorder,
died this (Friday) morning at seven-thirty at his home in Leiters following a
short illness of four weeks. Death was due to tuberculosis of the bone and
complications following an attack of grip.
When Mr. Rouch took sick, four weeks ago, his friends thought that he would soon
recover, but complications set in with which the physicians could not combat.
All hope of his recovery was given up several days ago.
Frank Rouch was born in Marshall county and came here when he was very young.
After learning to be a telegraph operator, he worked for 18 years as agent for
the Erie at Leiters. Then he was elected county recorder on the republican
ticket and served four years. After leaving office, Mr. Rouch and Doctor B. F.
OVERMYER started the bank at Leiters, where Mr. Rouch held the position of
cashier and manager for the last seven years.
Frank E. ROUCH was a progressive citizen and was known to everyone in the county
as a clean man. Mr. Rouch was a member of the Masonic, the Odd Fellows and of
the K. of P. lodges. He leaves a wife and foster daughter, Miss Florence ROUCH,
who is the daughter of Mrs. Rouch's brother. Mr. and Mrs. Rouch were married 25
years ago. Her maiden name was Miss Martha DAVIDSON.
Funeral Sunday afternoon at the church in Leiters, Rev. W. F. SWITZER of
Plymouth officiating.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 19, 1915]
HAVE STATE BANK
Negotiations are under way, it has become known, to reorganize the Leiters Ford
Bank to some extent and make the institution a State Bank. The bank is now
capitalized at $10,000 which capitalization will be increased. Some changes will
also be made in the officers which information the institution is not ready to
make public.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, December 15, 1921]
STATION SOLD
Harry Sarber has sold a filling station in Leiters Ford which he has operated
for sometime to Everett Young of Leiters Ford. Young will continue the operation
of the station.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, January 5, 1935]
LEITERS FORD BRIDGE [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Notice to contractors . . . for building a bridge across the Tippecanoe River at
Leiters Ford, Aubbeenaubbee Township.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 12, 1859]
LEITERS FORD BUSINESSMEN'S ASSOCIATION [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
Started the Strawberry Festival in 1947 to raise money to buy a used fire
engine. In 1953 they built the fire station.
The festival was an annual event, except for 1953-1959.
LEITERS FORD CONSTRUCTION CO. [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
LEITERS
The new foundry and boiler shop is now completed and the machinery and all
equipments are expected this week. Wm. Ralston will be foreman and will take
charge of the iron working department and Robert Davidson will have charge of
the wood working department. They will do general blacksmithing in connection
with it. It has a very fine location in one of the busiest little burgs in
northern Indiana and will be known as the Leiters Ford Construction Company.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 7, 1902]
LEITERS FORD ELEVATOR [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
N. S. Stoner, of this city, has sold the Leiters Ford elevator to John Merket,
of Ora, according to the announcement made by him. Merket has been engaged in
this business for some years.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 3, 1923]
LEITERS FORD ELEVATOR SOLD TO WILLIS CRIPE
William Minardow owner of the Leiters Ford elevator since 1936 today announced
that he has sold the elevator to Willis Cripe of Nappanee, Ind.
Mr. Cripe will take possession of the elevator as of August 1st it was stated.
He plans to move his family comprised of his wife and two daughters to Leiters
just as soon as a suitable residence can be found.
Mr. Minardow has no plans for the immediate future but states he and Mrs.
Minardow plan to make an extended visit in California during the coming fall.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 26, 1945]
LEITERS FORD FLOURING MILL [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
LOCAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
-- Mr Jacob Leiter informs us that he is pushing his new flouring mill at
Leiters Ford to rapid completion. He expects to have it in readiness to convert
the growing crop of wheat into good merchantable flour.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 17, 1884]
LEITERS FORD HERALD [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
WILL HAVE NEWSPAPER
The Leiters Ford Herald will make its initial appearance next week. The
arrangements for the publication were made Wednesday at a meeting of the
citizens and business men of that place and from the enthusiasm over the
prospect it is safe to predict that the new venture will be a success from the
start.
For the present the paper will be printed from the office of the Kewanna Herald
and will be under the editorial management of Carl Jessen, of the Herald. It is
proposed to establish a plant at Leiters later should the patronage warrant the
investment. The movement shows that the business men at Leiters are alive to the
value of a good newspaper and are willing to back the venture with their
support.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 11, 1909]
LEITERS FORD PICNIC [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The Rochester Ice Cream Co. furnished the Leiters Ford picnic with 100 gallons
of ice cream today.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 6, 1904]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Tomorrow is the Leiters annual picnic. The committee have arranged with the
Rochester Ice Cream Co. for 135 gallons of ice cream.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 2, 1912]
__________
An annual affair for many years. The date was always on the first Sunday in
August. People came in wagons and buggies from not further than six or eight
miles away.
A store was set up on the island -- counters made of four wide planks about four
feet above the ground. It was conducted by one of the Sunday School groups and
sold candy, ice cream cones, cookies, peanuts, bananas, oranges. Everything cost
a nickle.
Preparation for the picnic usually began on Thursday so that if it happened to
rain they would have an extra day to depend on. A committeee of men was
appointed by the Sunday School group to take charge of the cleaning up of the
island where the picnic was held and to make a road across the river. The
speaker's stand had to be built out of planks (2 by 10), seats had to be built
in front of the bandstand, grocery stand had to be built, walk had to be built
across the river. The island was about 50 feet from the shore. When water was
low, as it usually was in August, a dozen or so men would bring their horses and
scrapers and scrape up gravel from the river bed, pile it up into a walk about
four feet wide -- this they would extend clear to the island, except for two
deep channels about four feet across to carry the water through. These channels
would be covered with planks for people to walk across. Once in a great while
after a heavy rain the river would be swollen and the farmers would drive their
wagons end to end and use them for a pathway. The wagons had hay ladders on them
(racks at both ends) and planks were laid over the hay ladders.
The island was three or four acres in area -- covered with grass and trees --
elms, maples, willows, poplars, birch, black oak. Every year the men cleared out
the brush, burned the underbrush, and raked up a clean space in the center of
the island for festivities. Space was left among the trees around the edge of
the island for the horses to stand -- many people drove their horses and wagons
or buggies through the river and brought their families over in that manner.
Horses were unhitched and left to stand in shade of trees all day with food and
water. Hay was brought in wagon beds loose and corn or oats brought in grain
sacks -- half dozen ears of corn for each horse.
The speaker for the afternoon might be a local minister or some semi-celebrity.
An organ was carried over to the island for music.
[Leiters Ford Picnic, Marjorie Campbell McDonald, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
I came back to visit Leiters Ford for three dys in 1958, visiting my cousin
Hugh Campbell. Need I say I saw the Tippecanoe River again and found it very
changed and not for the best, scenically. The island is no more and summer
houses crowd the bank.
[Leiters Ford Memories 1908-12, Mary Campbell Gynther, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2,
Willard]
For many years an annual picnic was held on the first Saturday of August on an
island in the Tippecanoe River just east of the river bridge. When the property
changed hands the new owner used it for farming, and the picnics ended. A
Business Men's Association was created and they started the Strawberry Festival,
which was held in early June of each year, until it had grown so large that the
effort was too much for the people to handle any more, so it was finally
discontinued.
[Guy A. Shadel, as quoted in Fulton County Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
LEITERS FORD POST OFFICE [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
Located 750W and Delong road.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
LEITERS FORD POSTMASTERS [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
Dan'l Biddinger, May 21, 1872, James Saxen, Feb. 5, 1877.
James F. Saxon, Feb 26, 1877. Joseph T. Goucher, Apr 19 1877.
Wm. H. VanKirk, Apr 10, 1879.
J. B. Dunham, Feb 1, 1881, Daniel Biddinger, April 12, 1881.
Benj. F. Overmyer, Apr 22, 1884. Milton G. Storm, Oct 30, 1885.
James F. Saxon, April 19, 1886. John DeLong, Feb 2, 1889.
John W. DeLong
Benj F. Overmyer, Apr 6, 1889.
Changed to Leiters Ford Aug 11, 1893.
Wilson Brugh, NB ---- Aug 11, 1893. Benjamin F Overmyer July 13, 1897.
Benjamin F. Overmyer, July 13, 1897. Ck Dec 10, 1901. Dec 19, 1905. Oscar J.
Brugh, July 8, 1914.
Ollie Overmyer Act Dec 2, 1925, Feb 26, 1926.
Mrs. Ollie Overmyer was confirmed Feb. 26, 1926, commission signed Mar. 4, 1926,
and assumed charge as acting PM Nov 27, 1925. Her name was changed by marriage
to Mrs. Ollie D. Haschel Sept. 27, 1935, and she retired Nov 30, 1940.
Mrs. Flossie B. Merkert Acting P.M. Dec. 10, 1940 and assumed charge Dec. 1,
1940.
Donovan E. Brugh, confirmed May 15, 1941, commission signed May 23, 1941, and he
assumed charge May 30, 1941; Res. W.O.P.
Earl T. See, became Acting P.M. Feb. 23, 1943, and assumed charge Feb. 20, 1943.
He was appointed 4th al Oct 22, 1943, commission signed Jan 4, 1944, assumed
charge Jan 5, 1944, Retired Feb 28, 1958.
Claude Mikesell became Acting P.M. Mar 24, 1958, assumed charge Feb. 28, 1958,
Term April 28, 1961.
Paul Davidson made Acting P.M. May 2, 1961, assumed charge Apr. 28, 1961, 3rd
Ck. He was confirmed Sept 11, 1963, commission signed Oct 2, 1963, assumed
charge Oct 11, 1963.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
__________
LEITERS POSTMASTER RESIGNS
A notice of a civil service examination to be held at Rochester to fill the
position of postmaster at Leiters Ford has been received from the United States
Civil Service Commission in Washington. The present postmaster there is Oscar
Brugh, proprietor of a general store. He has resigned the position.
Receipt of applications will be closed January 6, 1926. The date for assembling
of competitors will be stated in the admission cards which will be mailed to
applicants after the close of receipt of applications.
The compensation of the postmaster at the Leiters Ford office was $704 for the
last fiscal year.
Applicants must have reached their twenty-first birthday on the date of the
examination, with the exception that in a State where women are declared by
statute to be at full age for all purposes at eighteen years, women eighteen
years of age on the date of examination will be admitted.
Applicants must reside within the territory supplied by the postoffice for which
the examination is announced.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, December 4, 1925]
LEITERS FORD STATE BANK [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
[Adv] Bank Statement - - - - B. F. Overmyer, President. J. L. Johnson,
Vice-Pres., Martha Rouch, Cashier. Wm. Overmyer, Asst. Cashier. Report of the
conditions of the LEITERS FORD STATE BANK - - - - - -.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 8, 1925]
LEITERS FORD TELEPHONE EXCHANGE [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Through Attorney C. C. Campbell articles of association of the Leiter's Ford
Telephone company have been filed with the Secretary of State. The incorporators
are Dr. B. F. Overmyer, John Campbell, Lorenzo Luckenbill, Chas. E. Anderson,
Dr. C. L. Slonaker and Wm. Yelton. As soon as the necessary preliminary work can
be done the plant will be built and it is expected to have an exchange of fifty
to one hundred subscribers in operation by the first of next year.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, October 11, 1905]
LEITERS
The Leiters telephone company will begin the construction of their system this
week.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 8, 1905]
LEITERS
Leiters Ford telephone line has exchange with the Bell phone line to Culver for
5 cents a talk.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday November 18, 1909]
SEEK TO BUY PLANT
The Winona Telephone Company of Plymouth on Tuesday petitioned the Indiana
Public Service Commission for permission to issue $25,000 worth of securities,
proceeds of which would be used to purchase the Leiters Ford Telephone Company.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, April 24, 1929]
WINONA COMPANY TO TAKE OVER LEITERS FORD PLANT
A petition now before the Public Service Company for the transfering of the
Leiters Ford Telephone Company to the Winona Telephone Company of Plymouth has
recently been made public. This request for the transfer of securities simply
makes the Leiters plant a part of the Winona system.
The petition states that the Winona Company stock of $100,000 and that the
Leiters Ford company has a capital stock of $2,000. The Leiters plant has 78
miles of poles, approximately 201 telephones, exchange building and connecting
toll lines. Its value is placed in excess of $25,000, with no outstanding
obligations.
The Leiters company would transfer all of its property to the Winona Company for
securities of the letter and have asked the commission to make an investigation
and then authorize the issuance of the Winona securities in exchange for the
plant.
Samuel Tomlinson of Plymouth is vice president and R. W. Frost is secretary of
the Leiters Ford Company while Mr. Tomlinson is president and L. E. Daniel is
secretary of the Winona Company.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Wednesday, May 1, 1929]
__________
Aunt Dot (Sarah) Campbell married William Yelton and they had one son,
Maurice, who lived and died a couple of years ago in Gary, Ind. Aunt Dot had the
telephone exchange in her little house in Leiters Ford for years.
[Campbell Family, Mary Campbell Gynther, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LEMAN DAIRY [Rochester, Indiana]
E. J. LEMAN BUYS THE BAILEY MILK BUSINESS
Announcement was made Monday by Charles Davis, manager of the Bailey Ice Co.,
that he had disposed of the milk business of the company to E. J. Leman who took
charge at noon. The name of the new concern will be the "Leman Dairy."
The new owner has been the manager of the milk, cream and butter department for
more than a year, since he came to this city and is well known in the community
as a man of wide experience in this field, who believes in giving good service.
It is understood that the office and plant of the Leman Dairy will remain at
their present location which is in the rear of the old Beyer creamery on Madison
street. Mr. Davis still retains managership of the coal deartment of the Bailey
Ice Co.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, April 20, 1925]
E. J. LEMAN KILLS FORT WAYNE FAMER SATURDAY MORNING
Local Man Is Exonerated From All Blame
E. J. "Jack" LEMAN, salesman, and former owner of Leman Dairy of this
city, struck and almost instantly killed L. L. TROUT, age 56, of Ft. Wayne,
about six miles east of Columbia City, Saturday morning. The accident occurred
about 11 o'clock on the Yellowstone Trail.
Mr. Leman, accompanied by his wife and two children, Lester [LEMAN] and Dorothy
[LEMAN], was enroute to Ft. Wayne on business, and was scarcely six miles from
Columbia City when the regrettable casualty happened. . . . . . . .
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, April 12, 1926]
LEMAN DAIRY CLOSES ITS DOORS VOLUNTARILY
The Leman Dairy, owned and operated for the past summer by Jack Leman, and which
specialized in pasteurized milk, closed its doors Friday and went out of
business. Mr. Leman announced that due to the small volume of business, the firm
operated at a loss and consequently he would not attempt to continue and run
further into debt. A pasteurized plant could not be operated here and compete
against so much competition, he said. The machinery and equipment will be turned
back to Charles Davis and E. J. Beyer, former owners. Mr. Leman said he would
redeem all milk tickets which have been paid for by customers and not used.
Quite a number of local farmers will be affected by the closing as they have
money coming to them for milk purchased by the dairy concern. Mr. Leman met with
these creditors Thursday evening and announced that he would continue to live
and work here, that he had already accepted employment with the Hammond Dairy
Co., and would endeavor to pay back every cent he owed if given time. He said he
would not go into bankruptcy, unless forced to by his creditors, and would make
payments on his debts just as fast as possible.
He said he would buy milk in this territory for the Hammond Dairy Co., and
deliver it to the firm's collection station at Akron.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 18, 1925]
LEMLER, WAYNE [Bourbon, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Wayne Lemler)
LENNIS LAKE [Richland Township]
Located in SE corner Section 14, S of Zink's Lake.
LENTZ, ANSON [Rochester, Indiana]
ANSON LENTZ (Biolgraphy)
Anson LENTZ is widely known in both Fulton and Miami counties as a member of the
firm of Lentz Bros. the famous photographers. He was born in Peru 34 years ago
and after finishing his school course took up a course of instruction in the art
of photography and has always made that his business. He came to Rochester in
1892 and has established a splendid business being equipped with one of the best
galleries in the state. He married Miss Nelle HARMOND at Liberty, Ind., in 1892
and they occupy an elegant suite of rooms in the Noftsger block
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895].
LENTZ BROS. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] SOMETHING NEW! Lentz Bros, of Peru, Ind., have erected in Rochester,
opposite the Arlington Hotel, a ground floor Photographic Studio. This gallery
is a branch of the Lentz Bros. famous gallery, at Peru. - - - LENTZ BROS., Opp.
Arlington Hotel.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 12, 1893]
LEONARD, C. V. [Rochester, Indiana]
Cigar manufacturer
Located W 8th.
LESLIE, GEORGE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
LEVERTON, GARRETT [Rochester, Indiana]
GARRETT LEVERTON GETS POST AT NORTHWESTERN U.
Garrett H. Leverton, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ed S. Leverton of Huntington, for many
years residents of this city, who has been a member of the faculty of Lake
Forest college at Lake Forest, Ill., has resigned to accept a position as
director of dramatic productions at Northwestern University in Chicago.
The change comes as a promotion to the former Rochester boy, who is now only
thirty-one years old. At Northwestern he will hold a full professorship and head
a department with eight assistants.
Prof. Leverton, a graduate of the Rochester high school in the class of 1914,
later graduated from DePauw university and then went to the Muncie high school
where he headed a public speaking and dramatic expression department which was a
model for the entire state. He went from Muncie to Lake Forest college, and
between terms took work at Northwestern University to obtain a degree there.
At Lake Forest Mr. Leverton is director of the Garrick Players, a small theatre
organization which is known all over the country. He has traveled widely in
recent years as a speaker on the subjects that he touches in college.
During his college work Leverton has become identified with the Delta Tau Delta,
Pi Epsilon Delta and Phi Beta Gamma fraternities.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, March 20, 1928]
LEVI, BERTHA [Rochester, Indiana]
PURCHASES BUILDING
Announcemen was made today hat Mrs. Bertha Levi, owner of the Levi Dry Goods
Store, has purchased the two-story brick building at 814 Main street from Mrs.
Nina Holman Nuenfeldt of Hobart. Mrs. Levi has operated her dry goods store in
the ground floor room of the building for over 50 years. The building is located
on the west side of the public square. Mrs. Levi owns the building at 812 Main
street adjoining the Holman building. Myron Berkheiser operates a grocery store
in the ground floor room at 812 Main street. Because of restrictions due to the
war Mrs. Levi stated she would not make any improvements at this time to the
Holman building but that improvements are planned.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, April 10, 1943]
LEVI CLOTHING STORE, JOE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located 810 Main.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 14, 1958]
__________
[Adv] JOSEPH LEVI the CLOTHIER! Gents Furnishing goods - - - Fashionable Hats
- - - Custom Made Suits guaranteed to fit or money refunded. West Side of Main
Street, Opposite Court House.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 6, 1883]
[Adv] BANKRUPT SALE. The large stock of Clothing, Furnishing Goods, Hats,
Caps, etc., of Joseph Levi must be sold regardless of cost. Now is the time to
get bargains.B. HEILBRUN, Assignee.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 10, 1885]
LEVI CLOTHING HOUSE
This widely known establishment has built up a reputation in local mode circles
which entitles it to a showing in a publication like this which is a reflex of
the live men and affairs of the Rochester of to-day. It has never been the boast
of the manaagers of this store that they keep the largest stock to be found in
the country. But they do pride themselves in the fact that they keep a right up
to date stock which embraces all of the lines carried in many mammoth stores.
Indeed it is quality of goods and variety of styles rather than quantity which
characterizes this store as one of the best in the country and by this method of
carrying only a few suits of method of each kind buyers have the same advantages
in the selection of something to suit them as they would if the stock were four
times larger and the store expenses that much greater. In short, Levis clothing
store has any thing you want in clothing or gents furnishing goods cheap because
it buys carefully and carries no dead stock. It also saves clerk hire, room
space insurance etc. by its system of carrying a little of everything and,
besides, this method of conducting business keeps the stock always fresh and
clean.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
LEVI DRY GOODS STORE, B. [Rochester, Indiana]
Located W side of street at 814 Main.
__________
STORE TO CONTINUE
Under the firm name of B. Levi, the Levi Dry Goods Store will continue business
at its location on the west side of the public square. Mr. and Mrs. Clyde
Entsminger and Miss Florence Levi will be in charge at present.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 10, 1919]
[Adv] Levi Dry Goods Store - - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 6, 1922]
In the north half of the 800 block on Main street beginning from the
intersecting alley, B. Levi operated a dry goods store. Next door Charley
Mitchell conducted a card room with, I believe, a billiard table or so. The room
later became "My Show," a popular movie house and now occupied by
Adler's Dress Shop. Then Joe Levi Clothing Store and Charles Plank operated a
shoestore. Ditmire's was next in line to Nobby True's Restaurant. A. C.
Copeland's bank and on the corner occupied by People's Drugs (now Lord's) was
Jonathan Dawson, one of Rochester's earliest dispenser of quinine, Brickle's
linament, Dr. King's New Discovery and prescription and patent medicines long
ago forgotten in this day of sulfa drugs, etc.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 14, 1958]
Clyde Entsminger became partner with his father-in-law, Mr. Levi.
LEVI & GERSON [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] This well known firm is located on Main street opposite the Court House.
These gentlemen have been carrying on the business for over a year, while Mr.
Gerson has been engaged in business in this city for a number of years. - - -
clothing for gents, boys and children. - - - Merchant tailoring department - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 24, 1881]
LEWIS, E. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From E. C. Lewis)
LEWIS, PHILIP, JR. [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Philip Lewis, Jr. - This man is the son of Philip and Nancy Lewis. He was born
near Lucas, Ohio, May 7, 1853, was soon after left fatherless by the death of
his father, and a few years later his mother married Samuel Daugherty, and about
1864 settled in Green County, Ind., and nine years later came to this county,
and after roaming around some time finally settled down one half mile west of
Rochester where they still reside. Philip, Jr., was married to Lucinda Sales,
December 26, 1876. They have two children living and one dead--Edward, born July
13, 1877; Jennie, born January 21, 1878, and deceased April 8, 1881; Omer, born
December 29, 1880. Mrs. Lewis is the daughter of John and Nancy Sales, who were
natives of East Tennessee. Mr. Sales was born October 7, 1820, and Mrs. Sales
January 25, 1821. Their parents came out to Putnam County about 1830, both
families coming about the same time. Mr. and Mrs. Sales were married April 11,
1843, and in the fall of 1846 came to this county and settled where the widow
now resides. The father, John Sales, deceased March 25, 1880.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 34]
LEWIS, RUSSELL [Rochester, Indiana]
ROCHESTER CHILD IS TO TO ENTER THE MOVIES
Russell Lewis, eight year old son of John Lewis, American Railway Express
Company employe of this city, has been offered a contract with the Famous Lasky
Players, motion picture producers, of Hollywood, California, according to
announcement made by the father, who stated that the offer had been accepted and
that the Lewis family will move to California prior to April 1, when it goes
into effect.
The lad, who has proved clever in theatrical endeavor, was first called to
notice by Clyde Wilson, who called Elmo Lincoln's attention to him when
Linkenhelt was in this city. Linkenhelt later took the matter up with the
company, which sent a representative down to this city to make further
investigations and contract for his services.
The boy is paid a salary of $500 weekly and is to receive four hours of
schooling each day.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 15, 1922]
LEWIS CHILD NOT TO ENTER MOTION PICTURES
Russell Lewis, eight year old son of John Lewis of this city, who has been
offered a contract with the Famous Lasky corporation of Hollyood, Calif., has
not yet signed up with the motion picture people, according to a statement made
Monday morning by the lad's father, and in all probability will not sign a
contract offered. The proposal of the motion picture people is to pay the lad
$500 per week but in turn the parents have little to do with the further rearing
of their child, and it is this feature that causes Lewis to hesitate.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 20, 1922]
JUVENILE CASE BEFORE JUDGE CARR
There was but little business before the circuit court Friday, there being
nothing of interest except a juvenile case scheduled for hearing before Judge
Carr in mid-afternoon. The case is that in which John Lewis is charged with
failure to properly care for and feed his son, Russell Lewis, the lad who was to
have taken a big position in the movies some time ago.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 31, 1922]
LEWIS, STEVE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Muskrat Farms
LIBBY PRISON [Starke County, Indiana]
LIBBY PRISON NEAR HERE
Few persons know that the infamous Libby prison of the Civil War is now located
in Starke county. The building was brought to Chicago for the world's fair of
1893 and was later shipped into Indiana and converted into a barn. It stands
about a half mile west of state road No. 29, near the Starke-LaPorte county
line.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, August 27, 1936]
LIBERTY GUARD [Rochester, Indiana]
GYMNASIUM FOR GUARDSMEN
Members of the Liberty Guard company voted Monday night to install some
gymnasium apparatus, including horizontal bars, Indian clubs, dumb bells,
punching bag, boxing gloves, etc., in the Armory for use this winter. Sergt.
Harry Bitters has taken charge of the work. A Culver sergeant gave the boys some
instruction in new National army drill during the Monday night street work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, October 8, 1918]
LIBERTY LOAN [Fulton County]
ON BRINK IN DRIVE FOR LOAN
SLACKERS ARE HIT
Unofficially, Fulton county has subscribed her $575,000 quota in the Fourth
Liberty Loan, but notwithstanding this cheerful news, there will be no
slackening of efforts on the part of the committee to secure still more
subscriptions, especially from those who have not purchased to the full extent
of their means.
The committee, it is understood, will stop at nothing to bring the county over
officially and there are many people in the county who will be called upon to
dig clear down to the very bottom of their financial resources. What action will
be taken with regard to those who refuse to buy althogether or who refuse to buy
as much as they can, is not known.
But there will be action. It has been learned on reliable authority that the
local draft board has taken a hand in the matter. This fact has a significant
meaning and it is entirely possible that the parents of men who have deferred
classification or the men themselves will be forced to come thru to retain their
present safety from the draft.
It is said that the government representative here visited a well-to-do farmer
in Richland township Thursday, a man who is said to have given to no war fund
uptodate. The farmer refused to buy any bonds, but record was made of the fact
that the man's 20 year old son had asked for deferred classification and the
local board was notified.
Chairman Bryant Friday made a most important announcement, when he stated that
banks of the Seventh Federal Reserve district have been notified of the issuance
by the Treasury department of certificates of indebtedness for the Fifth Liberty
Loan. Further announcement regarding a fifth loan was withheld.
The First National Bank reported 63 new sales amounting to $10,000, bringing
their total number of sales to 1050, aggregating $176,300. The Indiana Bank and
Trust Co's city total has been increased to $31,300 and the township total to
$44,000. This makes the entire city total $127,960 and the township total
$70,550.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 18, 1918]
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP [Fulton County]
EARLY SETTLEMENT
About the year 1835, James Burrows, now deceased, located on a farm where
members of his famiy now reside, south of the present village of Fulton. Our
sources of information are not sufficiently positive to warrant us in stating
that Mr. Burrows was the first white settler within the township, and indeed it
is known that there were other white families here prior to the year 1836. Among
these were Andrew Lauterbach, who located near the Cass County line, and Andrew
Oliver, who located north of the present village of Fulton. It is generally
believed that the settlement of the township began about the year 1835, but
which one of the several families who came then was first will never be
definitly known. Silas Lee came late in 1835, and in the spring of 1836 his
house was designated by the County Commissioner as the place at which the
township elections were to be held. For the next few years the township settled
but slowly, and some of those who came remained but a short time. Minor Ally
came about the year 1838, and located on a tract of land now owned by Robert
Aitken, removing to another point a few years later. Solomon Collins came about
the year 1840, and located upon the land where his widow now resides. Burris
Butler came about the same time, and located north of the present site of
Fulton, on the farm where members of his family still live. Between the years
1840 and 1851, there were a number of families who came to the settlement and
joined hands with those who had preceded them in the work of reclaiming the
wilderness and developing arms. Among this number were Joel Townsend, Samuel
Frear, Jethro New, George W. Davis, Robert Calvert, V. C. Conn, Asa Bozarth,
Richard Reed, William Pownall, Joshua Pownall, Richard Gregory, Andrew Burnett,
Calvin Babcock, Norman L. Stearns, Edward J. Delp, Benjamin Ziegler, John Green,
Daniel Smith, Lewis Warson, and others whose names cannot now be obtained. While
the lands in the township were still a part of the public domain, large tracts
were entered by capitalists from the east and elsewhere, and held for
speculative purposes. Many of these lands were not sold until comparatively
recent years, and while they were entirely destitute of improvements, and the
clearing of them involved the same amount of work as that performed by the
pioneers of early days, it is scarcely in order to class these settlers of a
later date with the pioneers of the township. True, they bore a large share of
the trials and harships incident to life in a new country, and to them, as much
as to any one else, is due the honor for improvements that have been instituted
and carried out in later years.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 42]
LICHTENWALTER, ALDEN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester 5 and 10 Cents Store
__________
ALDEN LICHTENWALTER BUYS HOWARD'S STORE
Alden Lichtenwalter today announced he had bought Howard's Variety Store from
Mel and Howard Wertzberger. He plans extensive improvement in the store and will
carry a larger stock. He has had twelve years' experience in retail business
inRochester.
Mr. Lichtenwalter has already taken possession.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, October 4, 1940]
LICHTENWALTER 5 & 10 SOLD TO MRS. WALLE
Mrs. Gerald Walle, this city, has purchased the Lichtenwalter Variety Store, 824
Main street.
The store will not be open for business until Saturday, according to Indiana
bulk law. However, the jewelry shop in the front of the establishment will be
open as usual.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 21, 1943]
LICHTENWALTER, E. R. [Rochester, Indiana]
E. R. LICHTENWALTER BUYS LIQUOR STORE
E. R. Lichtenwalter, manager of the Manitou Liquor Store, today announced
purchase of the store from Charles Krieghbaum.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 24, 1939]
LICHTENWALTER, L., DR. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Dr. L. LICHTENWALTER, Surgeon Dentist. All kinds of dental work done in an
artistic and servicable manner. Charges reasonable and satisfaction guaranteed.
Office in Citizens Block, south of Court House.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 7, 1900]
LICHTENWALTER BOOK STORE, EB [Rochester, Indiana]
Located 826 Main.
__________
GEORGE T. ROSS SELLS LOCAL BOOK STORE TODAY
In a business transaction at noon today one of the oldest business firms in
Rochester changed management as Everett R. Lichtenwalter purchased the George T.
Ross Book store at 826 Main street.
Mr. Lichtenwalter bought George Ross's interest in the firm and assumed control
this morning although the establishment will still be run under the title of
Ross Book store.
George Ross plans to maintain his radio repair service in the rear of the
building while Mr. Lichtenwalter will assume ownership and management of the
store.
The building has housed a book store since its opening 52 years ago and George
Ross had owned the book store for 38 years.
Many new improvements are contemplated by Mr. Lichtenwalter and at the earliest
possible date adjustments will be made in the store. Following the war, when
materials become available, Mr. Lichtenwalter intends to completely redecorate
the establishment.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, March 6, 1944]
REMINISCENCES
To the north of what is now Krogers and prior to the time mentioned heretofore,
a big frame structure was occupied by a barber shop owned by big Roy Myers who
played the tuba in the Rochester Citizen's Band. Later the present business
rooms were constructed and Stanton & Sterner opened a book store to be
succeeded by George Ross and currently operated by Eb Lichtenwalter.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 14, 1958]
LICK SKILLET [Richland Township]
Rev. Clyde Walters writes:
Mike Walters lived a half mile south of Germany school where the road turns west
and had a grocery store and at one time a post office. A half mile south at the
next turn of the road in an earlier day was a grocery store and post office
called Lick Skillet.
[FCHS Quarterly No. 20, p. 13]
See Salina, Indiana
LIDECKER, N. J. [Akron, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
N. J. Lidecker, owner and operator of the Akron saw-mill, is one of the most
thoroughly reliable and progressive business men of Henry township and, during
his nine years identification with the interests of Fulton county, has won the
respect and confidence of all who know him. He was born Jan. 29, 1859, in
Marshall county, Ind. His father, John Lidecker, a native of Prussia, came to
this state sixty-four years ago, and for a time worked as a day laborer, but
later became an engineer on the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago railroad.
He was married at Canal Dover, Ohio, to Julia Evil, whose father was also of
German birth. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Lidecker became the wife of
Jacob Stein, also now deceased. She is residing near Bremen, Ind. Her children
are John and Charles, of Bremen; N. J.; Julia,wife of Frank Walters, proprietor
of a hotel in Bremen; and William, who died in 1894. Throughout his life, N. J.
Lidecker has been connected with the lumber trade. As a boy he worked in a
saw-mill, and at the early age of sixteen was thrown entirely upon his own
resources, but his energy and industry made his services in demand and he found
no difficulty in securing employment. He is today the owner of one of the best
saw-mills in Fulton county, having succeeded to the business of J. H. Bennett.
This mill has a capacity of fifteen thousand feet per day, and furnishes
employment regularly to nine men, who are engaged in the care of the
manufactured product that is shipped to various parts of the country. Mr.
Lidecker has given close attention to his business, has kept abreast with the
improvement of the times in every particular, and is so thoroughly informed as
to the needs of the trade that customers place the utmost reliance in his
judgment, while his honesty is above question. He is now enjoying a large and
lucrative business, and his success is certainly well merited. Mr. Lidecker was
married in Marshall county, Ind., Aug. 2, 1883, to Sarah A. Smith, whose father,
Michael Smith, was a native of Pennsylvania. They have a pleasant home in Akron,
and many friends throughout the community. In politics Mr. Lidecker is a
democrat.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 100]
LIDECKER MILL [Akron, Indiana]
Owned by N. J. Lidecker.
LILLY PARK [Rochester, Indianay]
Located on N shore of Lake Manitou between Fern Dale Park and North Shore Park.
See Poet's Point.
LINCOLN, INDIANA
See Macy, Indiana
LINCOLN, ELMO
See Otto Linkenhelt
LINCOLN HIGHWAY GARAGE [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Lincoln Highway Garage. Repairing, Blacksmithing, Wood-working. Gasoline,
Greases and oils. SMITH & ARTER, East Sixth Street.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 22, 1916]
[Adv] Look That Car Over - - - Bring it to Us - - - - Lincoln Highway Garage,
Formerly Smith Planing Mill.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 23, 1917]
LINCOLN'S TOMB
This being Lincoln's birthday it is only natural that stories are being told of
the great Emancipator and Mrs. Laura E. Babcock brought to The News-Sentinel an
interesting bit of facts regarding the tomb of Lincoln, located at Springfield,
Ill.
She says that Charles Lawson, who formerly lived north of Rochester, had two
sons and these two men were given the contract at Springfield to do the cement
work at the tomb. For some time previous to the building of the monument there
has been plots to steal his body, it was said, and the casket had been moved
several time to prevent this. Accordingly, the designers of the tomb, Mr. Lawson
said, provided in the plans that the body and casket should be so placed that it
could not be reached or disturbed. Just before the casket was to be placed in
the vault the mayor of Springfield and a committee opened the lid to look on the
face of Lincoln and make sure the body had not been disturbed. Then it was
placed in the vault and covered with cement to the depth of 10 feet and to a
distance of 25 feet around it. This Mr. Lawson said ended all fear of the body
being taken up and removed.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, February 12, 1930]
LINE MARBLE SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
The Building Committee of the Baptist church will receive sealed proposals until
Saturday Dec. 16th 1865 at 12 m. for enclosing the frame of the Baptist church.
Proposals to be left at S. Lines Marble Shop . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, December 14, 1865]
John H. Shelton, manufacturer and Dealer in Saddles, Harness, Collars, Whips,
Curry combs, Carriage and Coach trimmings, &c. . . Shop one door south of
Line's Marble Works, Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 24, 1866]
LINEBRINK, RAY J. [Akron, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Ray Linebrink)
LINKENHELT, L. R. [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
L. R. Linkenhelt has returned from the Toronto Veterinary College where he has
just graduated, and has formed a parnership with Dr. H. H. Ward for the practice
of Veterinary work. The firm will have an office at the Ward & Huffer livery
barn, where one of its members can always be found ready to give intelligent
help to the suffering members of the animal kingdom.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, March 21, 1905]
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
This is to inform persons desiring the services of Veterinary Surgeon that I
have opened an office at Ward & Huffer's brick livery barn and will be ready
to respond to calls promptly, either day or night. Diseases of domestic animals
scientifically treated. Office phone No. 92, residence 420. L. R. LINKENHELT, V.
S.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 5, 1907]
LINKENHELT, MAURICE [Peru, Indiana]
Peru, Ind., May 27. - Formal charges of grand larceny were filed against Maurice
Linkenhelt, 23, today in the theft of jewelry and money.
Linkenhelt, son of Elmo Lincolnhelt [sic], who appeared in motion pictures as
"Tarzan of the Apes," disappeared ten days ago when police began an
inquiry into high school gin parties.
The youth is said to have joined students on a wild party which resulted in the
stealing of liquor from the basement of the home. Linkenhelt is alleged to have
gone into an upstairs bedroom and stolen the money and jewelry.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 27, 1931]
LINKENHELT, OTTO [Rochester, Indiana]
The following brief sketch of the life, character and death of Mrs. Ida E.
LINKENHELT, whose funeral took place from the Presbyterian church at 2 o'clock
on Thursday afternoon, was read from the sacred desk on that sorrowful occasion.
Mrs. Ida Elizabeth [PORTER], wife of Lucius R. LINKENHELT, died at her home, in
Rochester, Ind., May 3rd, 1881, at the age of 24 yrs, 1 month and 16 days.
Her mother - a sister of Mr. R. N. RANNELLS and of Mrs. L. MERCER - died when
Ida was only 10 days old. Her father, Mr. PORTER, went into the Rebellion, and
being known to have been wounded at the first engagement, before Richmond, in
supposed to have died on the field of battle, since no trace was had of him
thereafter. At the death of her mother, the little nameless orphan fell to the
motherly care of her aunt, Mrs. R. N. RANNELLS, who tenderly watched over her
and has been awarded the name and affection of mother. Ida's delicate
constitution, inherited from her mother, made her more of a care, hence more of
an object of affection, during those brief years of her early life, and today
the foster-mother thinks of the affectionate and obedient child and mourns the
loss, as of her own.
Miss Ida PORTER was united in marriage with Lucius R. Linkenhelt in the month of
June, 1876. To them were born three children, the youngest of whom, a babe of
four months, died more than a year ago, and today the husband with these two
boys - Harry and Freddie - precious pledges of hope, follow the remains of thir
best earthly friend to the city of the silent dead.
For six months before death, Mrs. Linkenhelt was held a bed-fast, hopeless
sufferer, but we trust that her afflictions were sanctified to her spiritual
good. Early impressions, quickened by the influence of God's word, as that word
was read and explained to her day by day, brought her to put her trust in her
Savior. Four weeks before her death, upon her profession of her faith in Christ,
she was baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In this living
faith we trust that she triumphed over death. She clung to life but was resigned
to the will of God. As she said to her friends more than once: "I arrange
my affairs with reference to my husband and children as if I were to live, but I
have given my heart to my Savior expecting to die." . . . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 7, 1881]
On Sunday, the 14th of this month, Mr. L. R. Linkenhelt and Miss Dora Hunter
were married by Rev. N. L. LORD at the residence of the officiating clergyman.
"Link" is so bashful about proclaiming his happy lot that but few have
yet got "onto" the cause of his broad smiles. May good fortune
continue to shine upon him and his bride.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 27, 1884]
BIRTH
Mr. & Mrs. Lou LINKENHELT were made happy by the advent of [Otto Elmo
LINKENHELT] a boy baby into their family circle last Wednesday.
[Rochester Sentinel, - - - - - , February - -, 1889
[NOTE: This baby became the first Tarzan of the movies under the name of Elmo
LINCOLN. -- Ed.]
[NOTE: Wendell C. Tombaugh, Fulton County Indiana Births 1882-1920: Otto Elmo
Linkenhelt, born February 5, 1889 to Levi [Lucius R.] and Dora [Eldora/Ida] E.
(Hunter) Linkenhelt]
SHORT NEWS
Otto Linkenhelt, a former resident, was seen here Wednesday night by a number of
people in a moving picture produced by the Pathe-Feres Co.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, September 18, 1913]
SHORT NEWS
Otto Linkenhelt, who formerly resided here, appeared in a two reel Biograph
special at the K. G. last night. Mr. Linkenhelt has been with this company some
time but this is the first time he has been seen in the local theater. [Otto
Linkenhelt, known on the screen as Elmo Lincoln. - W.C.T., Ed.]
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 13, 1913]
Mrs. L. R. Linkenhelt and Miss Arawista Personette left this morning for Los
Angeles, Calif., where they expect to reside. Mr. Linkenhelt will leave
Rochester this fall.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 29, 1915]
LOCAL BOY IN BIG FILM DRAMA
Many Rochester people saw "The Birth of a Nation," Griffith's great
motion picture, which showed in Peru Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Special interest attached to the fact that Otto Linkenhelt, formerly of
Rochester, had several prominent parts in the film drama. The orchestral music,
which accompanies the picture, is wonderful, being always in perfect harmony
with the scenes shown.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 10, 1916]
ROCHESTER BOY IN BIG PICTURE
Rochester persons who have seen "Intolerance," David Griffith's
mammoth photoplay in Chicago, recognized in the character of the Babylonian
king's bodyguard, Otto Linkenhelt, formerly of this city, who also had a part in
"The Birth of a Nation." His name is set forth on the program as Elmo
Lincoln. The picture itself is so wonderful as to be almost beyond
comprehension.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 16, 1916]
JESS WILLARD CHALLENGED BY ROCHESTER BOY
According to Ed Smith, Chicago American sporting editor, Otto Linkenhelt, whose
motion picture name is Elmo Lincoln, and who has taken many strong man parts in
recent Griffith photoplays, has challenged Jesse Willard to battle for the
world's championship, before any club. Lincoln is the second son of Mr. and Mrs.
Lou Linkenhelt, East 9th Street, this city, and was born and reared here.
Several years ago, he went to California and has scored considerbale success in
the movies.
Lincoln has wired a challenge to Chicago and asked Lou Houseman, Al Woods' local
representative, to act as his agent in the matter. He announces that a New York
draft for $5,000 is on the way in support of his offer to Willard.
"I hereby challenge Jess Willard to fight before any club either in this
country, Cuba or Mexico for the world's heavyweight championship and a side
wager, if necessary, the exact terms of which shall be agreed upon at a meeting
later on. I have asked Lou Houseman to act as my representative in this matter
and am forwarding him draft for $5,000 as a forfeit to show my good intentions.
"I would be willing to box Willard ten rounds, but certainly prefer a
finish match. My weight is 221 pounds, in very good condition, and I stand 6
feet 1 inch in height. My reach is 77 inches, with a normal chest of 46. I
played the part of The Man of Valor in "Intolerance." - - - Elmo
Lincoln - Los Angeles, Cal.
Of the incident, Mr.Smith writes: "The challenge is the outcome of a story
I wrote a short time back about the big Griffith picture. I Saw Lincoln in the
picture and commented on the wonderful physique the Los Angeles man
possesses.This evidently gave Lincoln the idea that he might have a chance with
the champion, for after some cautious sparring around he sought out a Chicago
agent and then addressed his challenge to me.
"The picture shows Lincoln to be a man of heroic type and evidently every
inch an athlete.
"Jess Willard would not express much of an opinion about the challenge when
it was shown to him.
" 'It doesn't matter much to me which of them I fight next,' he said.
'Anybody that can command a purse will suit me all right.'
"Tom Jones, Willard's manager, is in Hot Springs, Ark., at the present time
and was asked by wire for an expression of opinion.
" 'I've heard of Lincoln only thru friends of mine in Los Angeles, and,
believe me, he is entirely sincere in what he says,' Lou Houseman said. 'He
certainly shows some fighting qualities in the pictures, and from that alone I
wouldn't hesitate to back him liberally against any of them.
" 'Of course I am willing to act as his agent here in Chicago and ill
conduct the negotiations with Jones and Willard. But in the meantime I have
wired Jim Jeffries to go and look Lincoln over and see what he thinks of him.
Jim is a good judge, and being out of the game now will be without prejudice in
the matter. I expect to hear from Jeff in a day or so, and then we will know
more about Lincoln.'
"Dave Griffith is not in the city just now, but it is known that he thinks
Lincoln is one of the most wonderfully built men he ever found, and for that
reason picked him for parts calling for the heroic type."
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, December 29, 1916]
JIM JEFFRIES SAYS THAT LINKENHELT LOOKS GOOD
Jim Jeffries, former heavyweight champion of the world, believes Otto
Linkenhelt, formerly of Rochester, the motion picture star who challenged Jess
Willard to a finish boxing match for a side wager of $5,000, is a great athlete.
In response to a telegraphic request from Chicago, Jeffries went to Universal
City and watched Linkenhelt, known in moving pictures as Elmo Lincoln. He says:
"I watched Elmo Lincoln work out this afternoon, and he is a wonder. He is
the most powerfully built man that I ever saw and remarkably fast. He is a two
handed fighter and carries a powerful kick in either hand. Lincoln is also a
good boxer. I am much impressed by his wonderful strength."
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, December 30, 1916]
MOVIE ACTOR GUEST OF MOTHER IN CITY
Otto Linkenhelt, the Elmo Lincoln of the movies, a former Rochester resident, is
in the city visiting his mother, Mrs. Lou Linkenhelt. Mr. Linkenhelt has just
returned from Louisiana where he recently completed his first feature picture,
"Tarzan of the Apes," a 10 reel film. The picture was made by the
National Film Co., but Linkenhelt has been employed recently by the Fox Film
Co., of California. He will be remembered for his parts in the famous Griffith
pictures, "The Birth of a Nation" and "Intolerance."
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, September 18, 1917]
LOCAL STARS COMING
Otto Linkenhelt and Harry Holden, both formerly of Rochester, will appear here
in the motion picture, "The Kaiser, the Beast of Berlin," to be shown
June 10 and 11.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 22, 1918]
MANY LIKE SHOW
Rochester people who have seen Otto Linkenhelt at the Paramount in "The
Return of Tarzan" are greatly surprised by his presentation of the part of
Tarzan. They predict that he will soon be classed among the best moving picture
stars.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, December 6, 1918]
CHALLENGE TO DEMPSEY FROM OTTO LINKENHELT
Los Angeles, California, July 31 -- By International News Service.
Jack Dempsey, new heavyweight champion, has received his first formal challenge
from a Los Angeles boxer, Elmo Lincoln. Lincoln telegraphed a challenge to fight
next Thanksgiving Day to Dempsey at Chicago today. Jim Jeffries and Jim Corbitt,
ex-champions were said to have seen Lincoln work and to have encouraged his
aspirations. Lincoln would train at the Jeffries farm near here. He has a local
reputation, but nothing more.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, July 31, 1919]
[Adv] Paramount Theatre, Monday, October 20th, Elmo Lincoln (Otto Linkenhelt) in
the First Episode of "ELMO THE MIGHTY" a serial in eighteen episodes.
Think of it, a man from our own city, one of the greatest and strongest men on
the motion picture screen today can be seen at the Paramount every Monday for
eighteen weeks starting Oct. 20th.
Otto is casted in a suitable role in this exciting serial which contains
adventure, excitement and mystery galore. - - -
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 18, 1919]
FORMER ROCHESTER BOY WINS PRAISE IN MOVIES
In Wednesday's Chicago Daily Tribune Miss Mae Tinee, the motion picture critic
of that paper, gives her opinion of the latest Universal picture, "Under
Crimson Skies," in [which] Elmo Lincoln stars. As every Rochester movie fan
knows, Elmo Lincoln is a former Rochester boy whose real name is Otto
Linkenhelt, who first made a name for himself in the Birth of a Nation, which
was followed by the Tarzan pictures and the serial, "Elmo the Mighty."
In speaking of the picture Miss Tinee says she received a call from the press
agent saying it was the best picture put out for a long time by the Universal
people. She said, further, it was a good picture, sort of Jack London like, with
a nobleman in oil skins topping apparently insurmountable difficulties in the
path of life and love. The nobleman is captain of the ship and the difficulties
are a gun runner and a bunch of disloyal sailors, interested in shipping
ammunition to revolutionists. The ammunition is concealed in a shipment of
planes.
When the captain discovers the contraband there is trouble and plenty of it. In
the melee a man is killed. When land is reached the gun runner accuses the
captain of murder and he is thrown into prison.
He escapes of course. After a time, when the revolution has been quelled, the
gun runner killed, the people needed for a happy finish saved, and the general
mess cleaned up, the nobleman marries the gun runner's charming widow, whom he
has long loved, and becomes willing step-papa to the lady's small daughter.
Miss Tinee says further of Elmo that he is a powerful chap with a kindly face,
his work is good, the story featuring him has lots of action, good photography
and a reasonably capable supporting cast.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, July 22, 1920]
Mrs. Laura Mann, of Plymouth, underwent a major operation Tuesday at Woodlawn
hospital. She is getting along nicely. Her mother, Mrs. Lawrence Linkenhelt, is
spending several days here with her.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 19, 1921]
ROCHESTER CHILD IS TO TO ENTER THE MOVIES
Russell Lewis, eight year old son of John Lewis, American Railway Express
Company employe of this city, has been offered a contract with the Famous Lasky
Players, motion picture producers, of Hollywood, California, according to
announcement made by the father, who stated that the offer had been accepted and
that the Lewis family will move to California prior to April 1, when it goes
into effect.
The lad, who has proved clever in theatrical endeavor, was first called to
notice by Clyde Wilson, who called Elmo Lincoln's attention to him when
Linkenhelt was in this city. Linkenhelt later took the matter up with the
company, which sent a representative down to this city to make further
investigations and contract for his services.
The boy is paid a salary of $500 weekly and is to receive four hours of
schooling each day.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 15, 1922]
ELMO LINCOLN ORGANIZES OWN PICTURE CORPORATION
Otto Linkenhelt (Elmo Lincoln), motion picture star of renown, who has been
visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. R. Linkenhelt, of this city, Lincoln's
former home, leaves Rochester Saturday night for Detroit where he will complete
a series of personal appearances with his "Tarzan" pictures, in which
he is featured. In this tour he had been all over the country and in Cleveland
alone he appeared in 40 different theatres.
Lincoln's tour was planned largely for the purpose of putting before the public
forcibly a "close-up" of representatives of the motion picture
industry and counteracting the impression that has gone forth over the entire
country since the expose of activities among certain members of the Hollywood
colony, who, according to Lincoln are far from representative.
In an interview Saturday with a Sentinel representative, Lincoln said that
Hollywood is not in any sense as the newspapers of the country have painted it.
"It is a city of beautiful homes, some of which are nothing short of
palatial in appearance and appointments, and its inhabitants are of the very
highest type of American citizenship," he declared. Continuing, he said
that "Hollywood, like any other city in the country has its imperfections,
but they are no greater in the California city than any other, but are merely
given wider publicity."
Lincoln also said that the majority of actors in moviedom are ordinary home
folk, such as are found in every city of the United States and that class that
has recently been so much in the limelight and whose scandal has been exposed to
the public, is entirely in the minority. In this connection he predicted a
wonderful improvement in the tone of motion pictures within the next year or
two.
From Detroit Lincoln goes to New York to complete arrangements for the formation
of his own company, which will produce serial pictures exclusively. These
pictures, Lincoln states, will be of a much higher order than those he has
appeared in heretofore, featuring educational phases of the silent drama, and
will be of a high moral standard.
This company is to be incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware.
Other members of the company aside from Lincoln are New York financiers. The
studios are to be located in California and the serials will be known under the
name of the "Elmo Lincoln Productions." The company will start
production by May 15, according to present plans, and the first release will be
ready early next fall. The publicity campaign for the forthcoming production is
already well under way.
[Rochester Sentinal, Saturday, March 4, 1922]
STILL IN DETROIT
H. M. Holden is in receipt of a letter from Elmo Lincoln, in which he states
that he will be in Detroit another week before going to New York, where he will
remain a week before going to California to start production on his new serial
picture.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 27, 1922]
ELMO LINCOLN ENGAGED IN MINE INDUSTRY NOW
Otto Linkenhelt, born in Rochester, removed to Plymouth and who eventually
became Elmo Lincoln of motion picture fame as "Tarzan of the Apes,"
has gone into the lead and silver mining business in the southwest according to
a recent newspaper clipping received here from Yuma, Arizona.
We'll let the Yuma account tell the store:
"Everyone has missed Elmo Lincoln from the movies during recent months, but
few Yuma folk know that he is a frequest visitor in this city and is 'up to his
neck' in work as head of the Lincoln Lead and Silver Mining company development
of Althee Modesti's Colorado mines 45 miles from Yuma in the Castle Dome
Mountain range.
"Lincoln, who so ably played the lead in the 'Tarzan' series of pictures
taken from Edgar Rice Burroughs' famous books, who is an international character
by reason of his success in 'Quincy Adams Sawyer' and 'Under the Crimson Skies,'
and who earlier had important roles in D. W. Griffith's masterpiece, 'The
Klansman' and in 'Intolerance,' is a hard-working mining and business man
engaged, with the Los Angeles associates, in developing one of the great natural
resources of Yuma county.
"After having devoted himself to preliminary examinations and plans for
many months, Lincoln now is prepared to install modern equipment in the Colorado
mines, rich in lead and silver and which have been worked successfully from
early days by crude methods. With C. Bowher, Otis Hunley and Orrin Sanderson he
had mapped out and has started to put into effect development that should result
not only in success for himself and his associates but also for the entire
mining district in which the properties are located.
"Machinery to the value of more than $12,000 has just arrived in Welton
enroute to the mine. T. E. Mitchell, who was general manager for the Barman
Corporations in Indiana, in charge during the world war period of the greatest
lead and silver mines in the world is taking charge of development of the
Colorado mines. Mr. Mitchell was also an executive of the Anaconda Copper
company mines for several years and has a long record of pronounced success as
mine executive.
"Preparations along modern methods will be started vigorously with the
opening of March, Mr. Lincoln informed the Morning Sun in an interview last
night. One lot of ore assayed 71 per cent lead and 32 ounces of silver to the
ton, a value of $121.86 per ton, and Mr. Lincoln looks forward to great success
in development of the mine from which some ore has already been shipped and
advantageiously sold.
"The former film star is thoroughly enjoying the mixed requirements of
outdoor life and business operations, and he appears in the pink of health,
exuding energy and the personality that made him so popular with the
theater-goers during a long career of screen appearances. While he said he was
not in position to discuss the subject, it was learned from other reliable
sources there is a possibility he may take part in the Famous Players Lasky
production 'Beau Geste' from the French novel of that name, now in preparation
for some 'African desert' scenes in the sand hills of Imperial county,
California near here."
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, March 16, 1926]
OTTO LINKENHELT'S WIFE OBTAINS DIVORCE DECREE
Hollywood, Calif., July 12. -- There was entirely too much monkey business in
the real life of Elmo Lincoln, screen actor who came to fame in "Tarzan of
the Apes," so Mrs. Otto E. LINKENHELT, which is the real name of Lincoln,
was in possession of a divorce decree today. He kept company with another woman,
Mrs. Linkenhelt charged
__________
Elmo Lincoln, defendant in the above named divorce suit was a former resident
of this city. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Lou LINKENHELT. Otto won fame in the
movies because of his wonderful physique.
Linc, as he was known by his many friends in this city, got his start in the
movies when he played a minor role in the first great picture "The Birth of
a Nation" when he appeared as a witched negro.
After this picture Otto Linkenhelt appeared in other one and then finally was
cast as the hero in the series "Tarzan of the Apes" and "Elmo the
Mighty." In the Tarzan serial Linkenhelt won his greatest fame.
Linkenhelt when he was at the height of his career challenged Jess Willard for
the World's championship heavy-weight title. Efforts were made by many promoters
to bring the two men together but these negotiations failed.
For the past five years Linkenhelt has been out of the pictures only
occasionally returning to the studios to play minor roles. He has made a fair
sized fortune in different mining ventures in Arizona and Nevada.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, July 12, 1929]
FILMS' ORIGINAL TARZAN IS A JUNK DEALER NOW
Salt Lake City, Utah, June 5. - Elmo (The Fearless) Lincoln, original Tarzan of
the silent screen, was discovered here today - in the junk business.
Now middle aged, the erstwhile "king of the jungle" is still robust
and healthy. He is happy, a Salt Lake newspaper states, with his wife, a pretty
daughter, Marcia, and his business.
"I became fed up with movies after 14 years of make believe," the
six-foot, 235-pound former film star declared. He said he retired while at the
"top" after starring in more than 100 pictures.
Born Otto Elmo Linkenhelt in Rochester, Ind., he acted in several traveling
shows, then headed for California. From "bit" parts he jumped to
stardom as an animal fighter and "tree hiker".
"I haven't seen any modern Trazan pictures," Junk Dealer Lincoln said.
"Matter of fact, pictures today bore me stiff."
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, June 5, 1937]
OTTO LINKENHELT SUED FOR DIVORCE BY WIFE
Los Angeles, Cal., July 11. - Ida Linkenhelt has filed suit for a divorce from
Otto E. Linkenhelt, who was the original screen "Tarzan" under the
name Elmo Lincoln.
She charged that her husband struck her with a leather belt July 4, 1938.
The couple was married June 16, 1935, a Yuma, Ariz.
__________
Otto Linkenhelt was reared in this city where his mother still resides. He
won quite a reputation with his moving pircures exploits and his boxing prowess.
Several years ago he visited relatives in Rochester.
OTTO LINKENHELT AGAIN TO APPEAR IN PICTURES
Otto Linkenhelt, who was one of Rochester's few movie celebrities, will again be
seen in the films, it became known here today, when he signed a contract to
appear in Republic Film Company's western serials which are produced in
Hollywood.
Linkenhelt, who was the first "Tarzan" of the films, was a star in the
days of the silent films. He made his debut in David Ward Griffith's "Birth
of A Nation."
He later scored triumphs in a number of serial pictures made by the Wharton Film
Company of Ithaca and New York City, N.Y. and then Hollywood. His film name was
Elmo Lincoln which was given him by Griffith.
He played opposite the late Pearl White in the "Perils of Pauline"
which was considered tops in the serial chillers of that time.
Linkenhelt at one time challenged Jack Johnson to battle him for the world's
heavyweight championship, but the match was never arranged.
Linkenhelt, who was reared in this city with the advent of the talking pictures,
drifted from the film capitol and to Salt Lake City where he entered the
salvaging business after a brief experience in the mining game in Arizona.
In his new role with the Republic films Linkenhelt, who is hug eof stature, will
play roles of the county sheriff in western serials.
It has been several years since Otto Linkenhelt visited Rochester but he is
known here for the kindly treatment of his mother, the late Mrs. Dora Linkenhelt
who died several years ago.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 19, 1939]
OTTO LINKENHELT TO STAGTE MOVIE COMEBACK
Otto Linkenhelt, former resident of Rochester, is to stage a comeback in the
movies, it was announced in Hollywood, Calif., yesterday. He is now under
contract to the Warner Brothers studio.
Linkenhelt, who was the movie's original Tarzan in the silent picture era under
the name of Elmo Lincoln, is to make his comeback but not in the tiger skin
pants which were inherited by Johnny Weismuller.
The former Rochester man is now taking voice instruction in a school maintained
by Warner Brothers and as soon as he has finished this course will be given a
role in one of the Warner pictures.
Linkenhelt has had a varied career after receiving his education in the schools
of this city. He was the son of the late Louis Linkenhelt. His mother, Mrs. Dora
Linkenhelt, is now residing in Rochester.
Linkenhelt made his debut in pictures in "The Birth of a Nation."
Later he made "chillers" among them the Tarzan, Elmo the Mighty and
the Perils of Pauline serials. In the Perils of Pauline Linkenhelt was
co-starred with Pearl White who died in Paris, France during the past year. This
was the first serial picture and was followed by Tarzan.
Linkenhelt in his early life was an Erie railroad fireman. Later he was a
prizefighter in the heavyweight ranks and was one of the James Jeffries trainers
before his memorable fight with Jack Johnson at Reno, Nevada. Later, Linkenhelt,
who is large of stature, challenged Jack Johnson to fight him for the
heavyweight title but the match was never arranged.
After his retirement from the movies Linkenhelt engaged in the mining business
in California, Arizona and Nevada and for the past few years has been in the
steel business in Salt Lake City, Utah.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, June 22, 1940]
ELMO LINCOLN SENT TO JAIL IN HOLLYWOOD
Hollywood, Calif., Sept. 19. - Elmo Lincoln, the original "Tarzan" of
the movies, was in jail today, serving a five-day sentence for failure to keep
up payments to support his five-year-old daughter.
His former wife had him brought into court on charges of being $350 in shown he
"had the ability to support the child and failed to do so."
__________
Elmo Lincoln, whose real name is Otto Linkenhelt, is a former resident of
Rochester. Mr. Linkenhelt resided in this city until his late teens and then
moved to California. For several months he was employed as a life guard at one
of the pacific beach resorts and it was while thus engaged, a picture producer
"spotted" him for the role of "Tarzan."
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, September 19, 1941]
OTTO LINKENHELT IN NEW "TARZAN" MOVIE
An announcement made recently by the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer movie studio in
Hollywood reveals that Otto Linkenhelt, son of Mrs. Dora Linkenhelt, of this
city, has resumed his screen career. Linkenhelt, whose screen name is Elmo
Lincoln, is to have a feature part in the forthcoming picture, "Tarzan
Against the World," starring Johnny Weissmuller. The former local man
portrayed Tarzan in the first motion picture produced about the famed jungle
"White God" over a decade ago.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, February 25, 1942]
ELMO LINCOLN AGAIN IN PICTURES; LATEST ROLE, CAB DRIVER
Elmo Lincoln, one of Rochester's first hometown citizens to crash the gates of
moviedom and fame is again back before the flickers and public. This fact is
attested in Dale Harrison's column in the Chicago Sun today which reads:
"Chesty Elmo.
"I have been asked to set down that Elmo Lincoln, who was the screen's
original Tarzan, is back in pictures, appearing in Columbia's "Over
21" as a cabbie. I am further requested to mention that Elmo's chest
expansion is seven full inches--'enough,' my informant screamed in a fury of
enthusiasm 'to stagger the imagination.'
"Yes, indeed, and break all the buttons from his vest."
Elmo Lincoln is more familiarly known to Rochester citizens as Otto Linkenhelt.
He played the role of Tarzan in the first series of Tarzan pictures ever turned
out in Hollywood.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 23, 1945]
LINVILLE RESTAURANT [Rochester, Indiana]
BON TON CAFE GOES OUT OF BUSINESS, TODAY
The Bon Ton Sandwich Shop will cease operations in this city, at the close of
its regular business hours tonight. This restaurant was established last spring
by Messrs. Harley McCarter and Guy Young; a few months later Young purchased
McCarter's interest and assumed active control up until the latter part of last
month when he left this city for parts unknown.
The cafe was then operated a few weeks by Mrs. Young who found the task an
uphill fight and last Saturday the management of the place was turned over to
George and Elmer Newman. Pressing claims of various creditors was given as the
reason for the suspension of this business.
The Indiana Motor Bus Station which was located at the Bon Ton will be removed
tonight to the Linville restaurant, corner of Main and 6th streets. The Linville
restaurant was formerly owned by George Newman.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, September 14, 1926]
PURCHASES CAFE
H. W. Linville, who for several months operated the Linville Cafe on North Main
street with his brother Arthur, on Thursday purchased the Court restaurant in
Warsaw.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, December 23, 1927]
LIONS DEN [Akron, Indiana]
A former church, now used as meeting place of the Akron Lions Club.
The (Winebrennar) Church of God, a split off of the Ana-Baptism Church, which
originated in Germany. It was located where the present Lion's Den is today, on
the southwest corner of Maple and Walnut streets, a block north and a block east
of the library.
[Daniel Whittenberger - Monroe Morris Family, Kate Morris Jennens, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LIONS DEN RESTAURANT [Bruce Lake, Indiana]
In 1976 Pat Bronson opened the Lion's Den restaurant in the old Lake Bruce
Hotel. The hotel closed around 1930 and John Quirk converted it into a
residence.
[Bruce Lake and Delong, Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LISTON, J. T. [Rochester, Indiana]
PERSONAL
J. T. Liston, of Bunker Hill, is moving here today and will enter into the
grocery business in the Feiser room formerly occupied by the Fair.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, October 8, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The new sanitary grocery owned by J. T. Liston opened this morning for the
first. The proprietor has a first class stock all of whhich is fresh from the
wholesalers and everything is so placed as to be kept in a most sanitary
condition. Mr. Liston is desirous of everybody's trial order and feels that once
a customer you will always be one.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, October 26, 1907]
[Adv] It's Up to You Can you Beat It - One Week and One Day Sale - - - - J.
T. LISTON, 628 Main St.
[Rochester Sentinal, Friday, March 26, 1909]
[Adv] When looking for QUALITY try our Ft. Dearborn and Ardens brands - - - -
J. T. LISTON, Phone 60-04.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 6, 1913]
J. T. LISTON TO OPEN CASH & CARRY GROCERY
J. T. Liston, senior member of the grocery firm of Liston & Smith which
recently closed their business, is now busily engaged in overhauling and
redecorating the old business site preparatory to the opening of a new
up-to-date cash and carry grocery.
The proprietor stated today that his store had joined the Independent Grocers
Alliance and would be open for business on March 9th. Workmen have been busily
engaged in the laying of a new hard wood floor and the erecting of wall
cabinets, bins, etc. When completed the store will be one of the most modern
groceries in the city. Mr. Liston has had numerous years of experience in this
line of business and in opening on a cash basis expects to offer some
exceptional bargains to his customers.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, February 14, 1929]
[Adv] LISTON'S GROCERY, 628 Main Street. Prices for week end and through
Thursday, January 21st. - - - - -
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, January 15, 1937]
C. M. STUDEBAKER BUYS LISTON GROCERY STORE
C. M. Studebaker announced today that he has purchased the Liston Grocery from
J. T. Liston, who has been operating that grocery at 628 Main street for the
past 35 years.
Mr. Studebaker has had much experience in the grocery field. For several years
he ran a general store in Fulton. Later, he served for two years as a salesman
for the Huntington Wholesale Grocery Co.
Mr. Liston has not announced his plans for the future.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, July 11, 1942]
LISTON-SMITH GROCERY [Rochester, Indiana]
HE LIKES ROCHESTER
When Ed Smith opened the Liston-Smith grocery store a few days ago a carrier
pigeon with a band on which was printed the number 2860 on its leg walked in. He
later released the animal on the outskirts of the city and had about forgotten
the incident when the bird again came into the store. The pigeon will be
permitted to remain until it gets ready to go now, of its own accord.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 28, 1921]
[Adv] GOING OUT OF BUSINESS. Entire Stock of Groceries and Fixtures To Sell.
Everything Marked Down. - - - - - - SMITH'S GROCERY, Formerly Liston &
Smith.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, December 4, 1928]
LITTLE AMERICA [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Grand Opening LITTLE AMERICA, at the East End of Rochester on Road 14. - -
- - Complete line of Candies, Cold Drinks, Cigars, Cigarettes, Gum and other
Confections. Get my prices on Summer Furniture, Lawn and Beach Chairs,
Umbrellas, Awnings, Coffee Tables, Rustic Furniture.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 10, 1940]
LITTLE ANDERSON [Newcastle Township]
Located across the Tippecanoe river at Talma, the north side of the river down
to Big Creek. It was not until the 1940's that any buildings were there.
The area was nicknamed Little Anderson because practically everyone there was
from Anderson, Indiana.
LITTLE HARTZ LAKE [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
Located North of 600N and West of 1100W
LITTLE ITALY POOL ROOM [Rochester, Indiana]
JESS CHAMBERLAIN SELLS LITTLE ITALY
Little Italy, the well known billiard hall and soft drink parlor owned by Jess
Chamberlain and Ike Emmons has been sold, the new owner, Walter Planter, taking
possession Thursday evening. The deal had been hanging fire for some time, but
between arguments in the trial, in which his son was involved, Chamberlain
managed to come to an agreement with Planters and the place was sold. The new
owner is from Columbia City and has had former experience in this business. Mr.
Chamberlain and Mr. Emmons have not stated as yet what they intend to do in the
future.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, October 14, 1921]
"LITTLE ITALY" OWNED BY HARRY THALMANN
The "Little Italy" pool room and soft drink emporium was sold Tuesday
to Harry Thalmann, who took possession immediately. The business, established
some time ago by Jess Chamberlain and subsequently sold by him to Lee Plattner,
of Ft. Wayne, had been owned by Plattner for some time, before he sold to the
Rochester man, who had been an employe until the time he made the purchase. The
consideration was not mentioned.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, October 5, 1922]
HARRY THALMANN WILL CLOSE BUSINESS SOON
This city is about to lose a business, according to announcement made Monday
morning by Harry Thalmann, proprietor of the "Little Italy" pool room.
Thalman declared that he was going to close his doors Tuesday morning and go out
of business. He said that he had no other plans for the immediate future, but is
closing because of poor patronage.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, October 8, 1923]
MAY HAVE PIGGLY-WIGGLY
A Chicago representative of the Piggly-Wiggly serve-yourself grocery concern,
with establishments all over the world, was in Rochester today inquiring about a
location in which to put one of the stores. He had an eye to the building owned
by Mrs. A. H. Robbins and now occupied by Harry Thalmann, who conducts the
Little Italy Pool Room.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, February 19, 1924]
ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC STORE OPENS TUESDAY
On Tuesday, September 2nd, the Atlantic and Packfif Tea company will open a
branch store in this city in the room recently vacated by the "Little
Italy" pool room, on Main St.
The Atlantic and Pacific, or as they are more commonly known, the "A. &
P." store, will be under the direct management of Arthur MILLER, of
Plymouth, while the superintendent of this district is C. R. BUTLER, who was in
Rochester Tuesday making final arrangements for the opening next Tuesday.
There are over 17,000 such stores in the United States and they are always
discerned by the vermillion fronts which certainly attracts much attention.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 29, 1924]
LITTLE LEAGUE BALL PARK [Rochester, Indiana]
Located at the NE edge of and adjacent to the Rochester City Park.
Rochester can be very proud of its new Little League Ball Park and of each and
every one of the youngsters who engage in the national sport. Watching these
kids play turns my thoughts back to the times when as boys we played on any old
vacant lot and there were quite a few. As hero worshipers every effort was made
by the players to imitate Rochester's then famous baseball club - the Red Sox.
The Little League is at the west end of 11th street at the northeast edge of the
City Park, which years ago was known as the Fulton County Fairgrounds. And again
the minds of older citizens of this community will recall the annual affair
where the farmers brought in their prize pumpkins, exhibited their fat stock,
age chicken noodle soup at th Evangelical Ladies' cook tent, visited with
neighbors and acquaintances and watched the horse races.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 28, 1958]
LITTLE LUNCH INN [Rochester, Indiana]
See: REMC
LITTLE 5 AND 10 CENT STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
LITTLE VARIETY STORE TO OPEN ON SATURDAY
Announcement was made today that the variety store at 822 Main Streeet, will be
re-opened on Saturday April 14 by Wayne Little. Mr. Little who with his family,
consisting of his wife and daughter, are residing at 816 Pontiac Street,
purchased the store several weeks ago from the S. Z. Pittenger & Co. The
store has been remodeled, redecorated and restocked. Mr. Little has had 16 years
experience in the operation of variety stores. For 10 years he was with chain
stores and for the past six years he has operated a service for variety store
owners. Mr. and Mrs. Little's home is in North Manchester. An ad announcing the
opening of the store which will be known as The Little 5 and 10 Cent Store,
appears in another part of The News-Sentinel this evening.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, April 12, 1934]
LITTLE RESTAURANT [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Shore Clothing Co., A. B.
LIVERY BARN [Rochester, Indiana]
TEARING BUILDING DOWN
The old livery barn on South Main St., belonging to A. J. Barrett, is being
wrecked.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, December 6, 1917]
LODGES - AKRON EASTERN STAR [Akron, Indiana]
AKRON GETS STAR CHAPTER
Fully 75 Eastern Stars attended the installation and banquet of the new chapter
at Akron Friday evening. The installation was done by the Grand Patron of the
order and the work, which included the initiating of 30 members, was done by the
Rochester chapter. A six course banquet was served. About 20 went from here in
an auto truck.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 18, 1916]
Friday, March 17, marked an important event in social and fraternal history
of Akron, that of the institution of Akron Chapter, O.E.S. Rochester chapter
officiated upon this pleasurable occasion. Grand Patron Joseph F. Harrison of
Columbia City, Ind., was the Instituting Officer. There were 30 chapter
petitioners and all but one were present. The officers installed are Matilda
Hosman, W.M.; W. C. Hosman, W.P.; Gertrude Strong, A.M.; Etta McCullough, sec.;
Ida Hosman, treas.; Flo Carr, cond.; Leona H. Knight, asso. Cond.; Arra Miller,
chaplain; Opal Showalter, marshal; Deborah Strong, organist; Norton Reed,
sentinel; points of star, Adah, Ina W. Dawson; Ruth, Maud Jones; Esther, Mrs.
Latimer; Martha, Glen Huling; Electa, Pauline Whitcomb. The work was splendidly
given and Akron chapter fully appreciates the service rendered by members and
officers of Rochester chapter. At seven o'clock a four course dinner was served
in the basement of the M.E. church. - - - AKRON ITEMS.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 22, 1916]
LODGES - AKRON GOOD TEMPLARS LODGE [Akron, Indiana]
The Akron Lodge of Good Templars [I.O.G.T.] is in a flourishing condition. The
cellar of their new hall, 24 by 40 feet, is nearly completed, and the
superstructure will be completed during the summer. The Lodge has some sixty
members, among whom are many of the first citizens of Henry Township.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, May 15, 1862]
Akron Lodge No. 64, I. O. of G.T., will hold an election at their Lodge Room,
August 12, 1862, for the purpose of choosing three Trustees of said Lodge . . .
Milo Bright, W.S., Akron, July 31, 1862.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, July 31, 1862]
[Reporting erection and completion of Good Templar's Hall, at Akron.]
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, August 22, 1863]
LODGES - AKRON MASONIC LODGE [Akron, Indiana]
It was at this time that the wooden two-story structure burned on the southeast
corner of the center of Akron. Milo Bright's drug store was on the ground floor
and the Masonic Lodge was located on the second floor. The lodge had been
chartered under dispensation on July 18, 1876, as Akron Lodge No. 538,
A.F.&A.M. They received their charter the next year. The first Master was H.
B. Ensberger. The fire destroyed all their records so the lodge disbanded and
gave up its charter. The members transferred to the Gilead Lodge. It was not
until 1904 they again organized and applied for a new charter as Lodge No. 659
and had their lodge room in the new building which had been erected on the old
site. It remained here until the opera house was no longer used as such and the
owner, Almondo Gast, gave it to the lodge. After extensive remodeling it was
made into a very nice Masonic Temple. We now have what had formerly been the
Knights of Pythias lodge rooms which are also remodeled and partly in use.
[Thomas Carpenter Family, Walter F. Carpenter, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - EAGLES LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located at 619 Main Street.
Previously rented by Ellis Reed, where he sold new furniture until April 2,
1945.
__________
EAGLES NEW LODGE HOME IS NEARING COMPLETION
An inspection of the new home for the local order of Eagles was made today by a
representative of the News-Sentinel. In the forepart of September the lodge,
which for the past number of years has been located over the Zimmerman Bros.
furniture store, will move into the third story of the Mrs. H. A. Barnhart
building, formerly occupied by the Stehle & Shively hardware company.
The entire third story, which was formerly used for storage purposes only, has
undergone a complete re-arrangement and sparkles with brightness reflected by
its white murescoed walls and dark-trimmed woodwork. The arrangement consists of
a most spacious dance hall, a large well-lighted banquet room, ante room,
paraphenalia compartments, ladies' rest room, and a modern equipped kitchen.
It is understood a membership drive will be launched within the next few days to
boost the roster of this lodge, which will be housed in perhaps one of the
finest quarters of any organization in this section of the state.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, August 19, 1927]
EAGLES LODGE MOVES INTO NEW QUARTERS
The Eagles Lodge of this city has moved their lodge and club room from the
Dillon Building to that of the Sheets Building in the 600 block on North Main
street. The rooms which are located on the second floor of the Sheets building
have been completely remodeled and made into one of the most modern lodge and
club rooms in the northern part of the state. For many years the Eagles Lodge
occupied the rooms which they are now using. The Eagles are planning to take in
a large class of candidates within the next few weeks.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 18, 1934]
LODGES - EDEN LODGE I.O.O.F. [Kewanna, Indiana]
See Kewanna I.O.O.F.
LODGES - FULTON EASTERN STAR [Fulton, Indiana]
TO INSTALL NEW LODGE
A crowd of thirty members of the local Eastern Stars went to Fulton this
afternoon in the Haslett truck and other rigs, where they will have a big time.
Upon their arrival the crowd will proceed to the Masonic hall, where an Eastern
Star chapter is to be installed with twenty-two members. After the work a
banquet will be served and this evening will be given over to an entertainment.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, May 23, 1911]
LODGES - FULTON G.A.R. [Fulton, Indiana]
Monday afternoon the ten members that are left of the G.A.R. closed their
quarters over Enyart's store and disbanded. - - - FULTON LEADER.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 12, 1915]
LODGES - FULTON HARMONY LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester Masonic Lodge
LODGES - FULTON KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS [Fulton, Indiana]
WILL ERECT NEW HALL AT FULTON
As the result of the recent fire in Fulton which destroyed the Knights of
Pythias Home, a project has been started to build a larger and better hall. The
Knights of Pythias do not find that they are able at present to erect a new
building without other help, so negotiations have been entered into with Odd
Fellows. If both orders can come to a satisfactory agreement, a large building
will be erected on the main street of Fulton.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 1, 1913]
SHORT NEWS
Adjusters for the Continental Insurance Co. were in Fulton today and settled the
fire loss on the K. of P. Hall for $2,200.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 3, 1913]
LODGES - FULTON MASONIC LODGE NO. 79 [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester Masonic Lodge
LODGES - FULTON MASONIC LODGE NO. 665 [Fulton, Indiana]
This history was taken from the minutes of the meetings.
Dispensation was granted Apr. 6, 1905, by George E. Grimes, Grand Master of the
Most Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of
Indiana. The Grand Secretary was Calvin W. Prather. Officers appointed were
Simeon Holmes, Worshipful Master; John A. Fenstermaker, Senior Warden; and
Walter Mogle, Junior Warden.
The First Stated Meeting held under dispensation was Apr. 15, 1905, with the
following officers: Simeon Holmes, Worshipful Master, transferred from Illinois;
John Fenstermaker, Senior Warden, transferred from Kewanna; Walter Mogle, Junior
Warden, transferred from Kewanna; Ross Lowe, Secretary, transferred from Gilead;
John McLean, Treasurer, transferred from Gilead; Willis Redmond, Senior Deacon,
transferred from Kewanna; Christopher H. Fred, Junior Deacon, transferred from
Kewanna; Elzie Olmstead, Tyler, transferred from Kewanna; George Dubois, Junior
Stewart, transferred from Kewanna. Members: Abram Ellis. Visitors: John Chambers
of Rochester Lodge no. 79.
It is assumed that these were the charter members.
The Lodge was held in a room rented from Milton Enyart which was above his
general store (located about where Mrs. Virgil Baker's house is on north edge of
Fulton between the dentist's office and filling station on the west side of
SR-25)
The charter was dated May 23, 1906, bearing the seal of the Grand Lodge at
Indianapolis. The Masonry year is given as 5906. (The Masonry years are dated
from the beginning of masonry or the creation of the world, assuming that
bricklaying is one of the earliest occupations of mankind.)
The Lodge continued to meet in the portion of the building rented from Milton
Enyart.
The minutes of the meeting of Oct. 18, 1910, stated that the building committee
said that they had not yet been able to agree on any terms. They were instructed
by the Lodge to agree on any terms. They were instructed by the Lodge to
continue on as before with full power to accept or reject any proposition the
bank would offer.
Jan. 17, 1911, the building committee was ordered to buy furniture for the new
Lodge room which was above the bank.
Dec. 19, 1916, a bill was presented of $54 for wiring the hall.
Feb. 5, 1952, under the direction of the Worshipful Master Clurel T. Hunter and
the consent of the trustees and brethren it was agreed upon to buy the hall from
the I.O.O.F. This hall was above Frick's hardware (now Scott's, south of
dentist's office) and remodel it to conform with the requirements of the Grand
Lodge and the Fire Marshall. The brethren turned out in goodly numbers and
worked to accomplish this.
Apr. 7, 1953, Robert Leavell, Worshipful Master, received permission from the
Grand Master, Ralph E. Legeman, to move the Charter to the newly remodeled hall
above the hardware. This is our present Masonic hall.
Past Masters
Simeon Holmes 1905-06, 08 & 11
Willis Redmond 1907 & 09 Omer Hauser 1949, 50 & 56
Elzie Olmstead 1910 Marvin G. Zabst 1951
V. L. Barker 1912 Clurel Travis Hunter 1952
Ross Lowe 1913 & 14 Robert Dee Leavell 1953
Walter Skinner 1915 & 20 Paul Gene Leavell 1954
Hugh Rannells 1916 Donald Lee Fry 1955
Robert Heath 1917 Walter F. Baird 1957
Ancil Gray 1918 Clifford Alber 1958
Claud Fred 1919 & 22 William C. Reed 1959
Charles Cline 1921 Charles Mohler 1960
Hugh Henderson 1923 & 27 Harris Lease 1961
Henry Cook 1924 James Henderson 1962
Elmer Sheetz 1925 & 26 Jim Rentschler 1963
Frank Graham 1928 Phillip Rentschler 1964
Fred King 1929 Charles BAird 1965
William Welsheimer 1930 Ned Rentschler 1966
Vernie Bowen 1931 Maurice Horn 1967
Jean Ditmire 1932 & 35 Leroy Swartzel 1968
Lowell Ewer 1933 & 34 Leroy Moss 1969
Gerald McCroskey 1936 Ralph Mullins 1970
Fred Mills 1937 Clifford Pickens 1971
Earl Mills 1938 Daniel Hauser 1972
Charles Olmstead 1939 Daniel Sailors 1973
Donald Leavell 1940 Donald Williams 1974
Howard Dielman 1941 Hank Rentschler 1975
Charles B. Riggle 1942 Raymond Zartman 1976
Joe Williams 1943 William G. Hartzler 1977
Chester Williams 1944 Virgil D. Williams 1978
Lawrence H. Siders 1945 Mark L. Williams 1979
Howard M. Zhizum 1946 William S. Hartzler
Zephere F. Martin 1947 Cedric Berdine 1981
Carl Dean Rentschler 1948
Order of Eastern Star
Fulton Chapter Order of the Eastern Star no. 376 received their charter in 1912.
Charter Members: Effie Sprague, Fannie Lowman, Lillie Redmond, Ida Dielman, Iona
Weeks, Ada Lucille Horn, Flora Ellen Horn, Dillie Moss, Bertha Johnson, Flo
Zook, Anna Gray, Maggie Alber, Amanda Hanson, Coral Holmes, Laura Holmes, Mary
Fenstermaker, John Fenstermaker, Marie Lowe, John Chambers, Grace Chambers, John
Sprague, John Hanson, Lottie Felder, Bessie Laird, Dr. Frank C. Dielman, Maurice
Lowman, Carrie McMahan, Edith McMahan, Bernice McMahan, Huldah Martin, Verd
Barker, Emery Weeks, Daniel Alber, and Mary Horn Lemon.
By Mary Horn, Past Matron:
Fulton Chapter No. 376 Order of the Eastern Star was instituted in 1911 and
received its charter on Apr. 24, 1912.
Their first worthy Matron and Worthy Patron was Effie Sprague and John
Fenstermaker and the Associate Matron was Fannie Lowman.
They held their first meetings over the bank. They had no air conditioning, no
furnace and no heat in the kitchen and preparation room.
The first, or the members I remember, were Effie Sprague, Fannie Lowman, Ida
Ditmire, Daniel and Margaret Alber, Anna Snepp, Verd and Eva Barker, Lottie
Felder, Lillie and Willis Redmond, Reta Lowe, Dr. and Mrs. Dielman, Claud and
Blanch Fred, Anna Gray, Metta and Marie and Hugh Henderson, Emma Becker, Minnie
and Thad Armstrong, Ada Horn Wells, Flora Horn, Bertha Horn Johnson, Celeste and
Calvin Alber, William Welsheimer and wife. All are gone now.
Carrie Unger, Helen Cook True, and Edna Carson are the oldest living Past
Matrons.
A group from Twelve Mile joined and later had their own Chapter at Twelve Mile.
Twelve Mile was accepted back into the Fulton Lodge Sept. 22, 1980.
The Fifty-Year Members are Letha Granger, Tressie Mills, Calvin Alber, Ruth
Ellis, Mary Allen, and Winifred Chitwood.
The American flag was presented to the Chapter by Dolly Ellis in memory of her
son Jack Redd, who was taken prisoner by Japan for five years, she not knowing
if he was alive or dead. He returned shortly before her death.
There was no Grand Chapter during the war years.
Ruth Ellis had her daughter the year she was Worthy Matron.
The older members took their work seriously, and if anyone asked and was elected
to membership, it was considered an honor. They considered it character
building.
The initiation fee was $2 and the dues were $1 per year. No gifts were bought
then as now. No collective ballots were used.
The Chapter sponsored Rainbow for girls.
Lillie Redmond always gave the installation service by memory. Emma Becker was
always Installing Marshall. Funeral service was repeating the 23rd psalm in
unison followed by prayer.
Before Dolly Ellis died she made a request for full funeral service, and she
even picked whom she wanted to do the work. The Star service has been followed
since at funerals.
The Chapter has had three District Deputies, Ondah Pickens, June Lowe and Nellie
McGrew; one representative, June Lowe; and a Page, Nellie McGrew, to Grand
Chapter.
Daisy Locke was the poet of the early chapter.
In 1953 the Chapter moved to its present location, the old Odd Fellows building
over the Hardware Store.
Rainbow Girls
By June Lowe, Mother Advisor
The Fulton Order of Rainbow for Girls, initiated, instituted, and installed
officers on Saturday June 27, 1953, in the Fulton High School gymnasium.
Charter members were Jo Ann Abel, Elsie Button, Jean Ann Shaw, Janet Rae Urbin,
Mary Unger, Margaret Ann Alber, Shirley Williams, Elsie Easterday, Arvella
Rouch, Helen Poorman, Ruth Ann Ulerick, Lelia Ann Fry, Linda Casper, Ruth Ann
Wagoner, Sara Jane Hunter, Rita Mohler, Margaret Chizum, Dara Masteller, Emily
McClain, Sharon Kay Wilson, Susie Carithers, Carolyn Sue Diveley, Dana Gay
Shull, Wanda Siders, Freda Siders, Virginia Button, Yvonne Unger, Phyllis
Powers, Elaine Mohler, Mary Jane Sutton, Beverly Horn, Karen Sue Bruce, Patricia
Kumler, Neva Riemenschneider, Mary Henning, Nina Ruth Sutton, and Eleanor
Johnston.
The Charter was presented Dec. 12, 1953.
The last meeting of the Rainbow Assembly was held on Apr. 17, 1972. It was then
discontinued.
O.E.S. Past Matrons and Patrons
Effie Sprague 1911-12 John Fenstermaker
Lillie Redmond 1913 John Chambers
Effie Sprague 1914 V. L. Barker
Effie Sprague 1915 H. B. Johnson
Edna Rannells 1916 Maurice Lowman
Edna Rannells 1917 W. E. Redmond
Dora Ewer 1918 W. E. Redmond
Ida Ditmire 1919 R. F. Heath
Ida Ditmire 1920-21 W. E. Redmond
Lillie Redmond 1922-23 W. E. Redmond
Anna Snepp 1924 Claud Fred
Emma Becker 1925 Calvin Alber
Dolly Ellis 1926 Calvin Alber
Dolly Ellis 1927-28 William Welsheimer
Blanche Fred 1929 William Welsheimer
Elma Lemmon 1930-31 W. E. Redmond
Carrie Lemmon 1932 William Welsheimer
Lola Ewer 1933 Claud Fred
Helen Cook 1934 Vernie Bowen
Edna Carson 1935 Gerald McCroskey
Sylvia Swanson 1936 William Locke
Mable Thommen 1937 T. T. Armstrong
Olive Manning 1938-39 Gerald McCroskey
Pearl Cook 1940 T. T. Armstrong
Faye Mills 1941 Earl Mills
Ruth Ellis 1942 T. T. Armstrong
Gertie Mills 1943 Lawrence Siders
Bess Leffel 1944 Lawrence Siders
Helen Rogers 1945 Lawrence Siders
Mary Horn 1946 Zephere Martin
Jean Heminger 1947 Zephere Martin
Dorothy Chizum 1948 Marion Chizum
Geneva Cook 1949 Carl Rentschler
Essie Siders 1950 Lawrence Siders
Joyce Martin 1951 Zephere Martin
Ondah Pickens 1952 Paul Leavell
Donna Leavell 1953 Paul Leavell
Jane Rentschler 1954 Carl Rentschler
Merle Fry 1955 Carl Rentschler
Dorothy Lease 1956 Zephere Martin
Janet Hunter 1957 Clurel Hunter
Goldys Leavell 1958 Donald Leavell
Wanda Hauser 1959 Omar Hauser
Hazel Sutton 1960 Zephere Martin
Louise Cooper 1961 Omar Hauser
Elsie Graham 1962 Zephere Martin
Merle Fry 1963 Zephere Martin
Berdenia Ball 1964 Walter Ball, Jr.
Marva Jean Tam 1965 Walter Ball, Jr.
Joyce Martin 1966 Zephere Martin
Mervine Rentschler 1967 Phillip Rentschler
Wilma Halpeny 1968 Zephere Martin
Georgeann Pickens 1969 Clifford Pickens
June Lowe 1970 Carl Rentschler
Jane Rentschler 1971 Carl Rentschler
Mildred Mullins 1972 Ralph Mullins
Sue Sailors 1973 Zephere Martin
Vera Ulerick 1974 Paul Leavell
Nellie McGrew 1975 Lawrence Siders
Barbara Berdine 1976 Omar Hauser
Donnabelle Hinkle 1977 Lawrence Siders
Pam Hook 1978 Voris Lowe
Donna Hisey 1979 Omar Hauser
June Lowe 1980 Voris Lowe
[Fulton Masonic Lodge No. 665, Lawrence H. Siders and Charles Olmstead, Fulton
Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - GLEANERS SOCIETY [Grass Creek, Indiana]
John Herrold received an award for being secretary for over 50 years. Gleaners
Society was an early, reasonably-priced life insurance company.
[Lewis Herrold Family, Janece Rouch Herrold, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - GRASS CREEK I.O.O.F. [Grass Creek, Indiana]
WILL INSTITUTE A LODGE
The degree team and a number of members of the Rochester I.O.O.F. will go to
Grass Creek, this afternoon, and there institute a new lodge with a charter
membership of twenty-three.
It is said there will be many other lodgemen present from other places, and
following the initiation of the charter members a banquet supper will be served.
The Rochester men are anticipating much pleasure and have the promises of the
Grass Creek charter members that they will have an excellent time.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, April 12, 1906]
LODGES - GREEN OAK I.O.O.F. [Green Oak, Indiana]
GREEN OAK I.O.O.F. LODGE MERGE WITH ROCHESTER
A most enjoyable event was held at the I.O.O.F. hall, this city, Wednesday
evening when a number of members from the Green Oak Lodge were present as guests
of the local order. The Green Oak Lodge will be abandoned in the near future and
the membership will be merged with the local lodge. This lodge was one of the
oldest in the state.
The change has become necessary due to the fact that the modern means of
transportation and the advantages offered in lodges located in larger cities
have served to cause a lack of interest in small community lodge. At the meeting
last night the local I.O.O.F. voted to take the entire Green Oak lodge
membership into the order. At an early date the official group of the Rochester
lodge will conduct a special meeting at Green Oak at which time the
consolidation will be effected.
Following the business session refreshments were served and the members of both
lodges enjoyed a most pleasurable social hour.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, September 17, 1931]
LODGES - KEWANNA AMERICAN LEGION POST [Kewanna, Indiana]
A temporary charter was issued on February 19, 1929. The two front rooms of the
old Toner Hotel were rented for a meeting place and general headquarters.
A ladies auxiliary unit was chartered December 28, 1929.
In 1944 they purchased the building on the SW corner of Main and Toner Streets.
In 1959 this was sold to the Harrison Funeral Home with the provision they could
continue using the second floor for meeting.
LODGES - KEWANNA EASTERN STAR [Kewanna, Indiana]
Kewanna Herald.
The local Eastern Star Chapter received its charter Monday evening and was
formally instituted at the hands of Hon. Daniel McDonald of Plymouth. A most
delicious banquet was enjoyed by the members and a large party of invited
guests.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, May 25, 1906]
LODGES - KEWANNA I.O.O.F. LODGE [Kewanna, Indiana]
KEWANNA LODGE HAS A COZY CLUB ROOM
Kewanna, Ind., Nov. 25. The Kewanna I.O.O.F. lodge has opened a club room in
their building at the rear of the P. J. Dwyer store on Logan street. The two
rooms have been freshly painted and papered and present a very cozy appearance.
The room has been fitted with four card tables, a pool table and library table
containing magazines and books for the use of the members.
None but members of the lodge will be permitted to make use of the room and
equipment, and it is now the intention of the members to have the rooms open
only on Monday and Tuesday nights when the Encampment meets or on special
meeting nights. The rooms will be opened on the above mentioned night at 5:30
o'clock and will be closed during the hours of the meeting of the lodge and will
again be opened after the meeting.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, November 25, 1932]
__________
Charter for the Eden Lodge #69 I.O.O.F. was issued on July 11, 1849. The
original building was destroyed by fire, and a new one was built in 1889. The
Rebekah Lodge was instituted on February 16, 1875.
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, and Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - KEWANNA KU KLUX KLAN - [Kewanna, Indiana]
The Klan of the Kewanna area started around 1923 and had an unbelievable roll of
577 members. Of course, not all of these members were from Kewanna; some were
from Grass Creek, Leiters Ford, and some were from Rochester. The list of the
577 members that I obtained were all men, although there was a Women's
Auxiliary. I have no idea how many women were involved but I am sure that there
were quite a few. The professional listing of the male members ranged from
lawyers to farmers and from doctors to a few preachers. In fact, there were very
few people in this area who were not involved in this organization.
Those who joined were, in fact, joining a good local organization of high
intentions. No one ever dreamed that such a peaceful club would get so far out
of hand.
As the Klan advanced, they began to burn crosses in the yards of Catholics and
to hold "Klavalkades" (parades) down main street in Kewanna with their
white robes and hoods. The Klan even went so far as to set off a charge of
dynamite behind the Kewanna High School one night when Father Michael Shea of
the St. Ann's Catholic Church was addressing a group of parents. It was said
that Father Shea never missed a word of his talk, nor did he even raise his
head.
While talking to a retired Klansman, I noticed he was using several strange
terms. I was able to find the meanings of some:
The Invisible Empire - geographically the universal jurisdiction of the order.
Realm - subdivision of the Invisible Empire, a state or territory of the United
States.
Province - subdivision of a Realm, a county or number of counties in a state or
territory in the United States.
The Imperial Klonvokation - convention of the Invisible Empire and is the
supreme legislative body of the order. (From convocational assembly called by
higher authority.)
Kloran - the book of the Klan which contains rituals and lectures.
Klavern - the meeting place of the Klan.
Klan - the unit of the order, a number of men with a kindred purpose who are
bound together by an oath and who are very determined to enhance and protect
each other's interest and welfare.
Klansman - member of the Klan, the title of the first order of
"K-uno."
Klavalier - soldier of the Klan.
Klavalkade - parade or public exhibition in full dress of white robe and hood,
sometimes mounted on a white horse.
Imperial Wizard - the emperor of the Invisible Empire.
Exalted Cyclops - president.
Kaliff - vice president.
Klokard - lecturer.
Kludd - chaplain.
Kligraph - secretary.
Kalibee - treasurer.
Kladd - conductor.
Klarogo - innerguard.
Klexter - outerguard.
Klokan - investigator.
Night-Hawk - keeper of the firey cross.
The Ku Klux Kreed
"We, the order of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, reverentially
acknowledge the majesty and supremacy of the divine being, and recognize the
goodness and providence of the same.
"We recognize our relation to the government of the United States of
America, the supremacy of its constitution, and the constitutional laws thereof,
and we shall be ever devoted to the sublime principals of pure Americanism and
valiant in the defense of its ideas and institutions.
"We avow the distinction between the races of mankind the same as has been
decreed by the creator and we shall ever be true in the faithful maintenance of
white supremacy and will strenuously oppose any compromise thereof in any and
all things.
"We appreciate the intrinsic value of a real practical fraternal
relationship among men of kindred thought, purpose, and ideals and the infinite
benefits accruable, therefrom, and we shall devote ourselves to the practice of
an honorable clanishness that the life and living of each may be a constant
blessing to others."
"Non Silba Sed Anthat"
Original Kreed revised
The local meeting place (Klavern) was located right in Kewanna on the property
of the late Edward C. Cannon in a wooded area called the "Grove." This
is now the property of Calvin Miller, on the south side of Kewanna.
When members of the Klan got together, they did not always wear their white
robes. However, they did wear them at all public exhibitions.
The going price for a hood and robe (according to a history book) was $6.
However, our members paid $10 for their outfits (after paying a $10 entry fee)!
"The robes were made at a cost of $1.75 each. The excess was pocketed by D.
C. Stephenson who at that time was the Grand Dragon who resided in a lavish
suite of offices in Indianapolis. (This is where our members sent for their
uniforms.) D. C. Stephenson pocketed some two million dollars from the sale of
the uniforms in less than eight months."
Kewanna was the site of many parades.
Dr. John Washburn, Herb's father, had his office on Main Street in Kewanna. The
Ku Klux Klan threatened him several times with violence. However, the mere sight
of a shotgun seemed to change their minds.
The Klan burned crosses several times at the Penn. Depot on the east side of
Kewanna. Occasionally one would be burned in the yard of a Catholic. To my
knowledge no further actions were ever taken.
One woman told me that she recalled the Klan going to the Kewanna school and
passing out Bibles to all the little school kids.
The Klan often went to church as a group and donated large sums of money. Many
retired Klansmen said that the KKK got many people out of their houses and to
the inside of a church, a place many of them had rarely seen.
Several people told about how they ran into very large parades around Lake
Manitou: hundreds of people dressed in the white outfits marching like soldiers
going to war, carrying torches and several American flags. However, (to my
knowledge) no one was ever hurt.
As the KKK flourished in our little community, the great scandal over D. C.
Stephenson which started on Apr. 2, 1925, caused our Klan to come to a
screaching halt.
D. C. Stephenson, Grand Dragon, forced a young Indianapolis girl, Madge
Oberholtzer, to become drugged; then he raped her. After he was tracked down, he
was charged with sadistic sexual assault. Three days later Miss Oberholtzer died
of an infection and the charge was changed to murder.
[Convicted of murder in 1925, incarcerated at Michigan City, paroled Dec. 20,
1956]
When the local KKK got wind of the awful scandal, they quickly dissolved their
organization.
The Ku Klux Klan caused deep scars on may friendships. I have found that quite a
few people still hate one another because of the KKK.
(written by Luther Wade Bussert, Kewanna High School, 1975 in Mrs. Doris Hill's
English Class)
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, and Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - KEWANNA MASONIC LODGE [Kewanna, Indiana]
On Sept. 26, 1876, John Q. Howell, A. D. Toner, Hickman Phillips and James Ware
signed a contract with Barkdoll and Kennedy to build a two-story frame building.
This building was necessary before a charter could be obtained from the Grand
Lodge of the State of Indiana, F.&A.M., for Kewanna. The first floor of the
building was occupied by a drug store and the second floor was the Masonic Hall.
The total cost of the building, including all labor and material, was $1,900.
The Kewanna Chapter Order of Eastern Star was organized in 1905.
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, and Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - KEWANNA SADDLE CLUB [Kewanna, Indiana]
Don and Wilma Van Duyne were charter members of the Kewanna Saddle Club when it
was founded in 1944. The club had its annual horse show in September and enjoyed
local rides and fun shows at the saddle club grounds west of Kewanna on Ralph
Kreamer's farm. Elston Sayers was the first president and was president for 25
years. Bob Greer was then president for several years, and Joe Rude was
president in 1976 an especially active year because of the many Bicentennial
parades. Wilma Van Duyne was the club reporter for four years, and their
children and grandchildren were club members too.
The Kewanna Saddle Club used to raffle off a pony, then a horse and saddle,
later hams now no raffle. They had annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
The members built a club house on Kreamer's farm in 1949.
In 1967 the Kewanna Saddle Club presented Don Van Duyne a trophy for 50 years of
horseshoeing.
[Van Duyne - Shelton Families, Fred Van Duyne, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - KEWANNA V.F.W. [Kewanna, Indiana]
James Talbott VFW Post.
A Veterans of Foreigh Wars (VFW) post was formed in Kewanna May 18, 1972, and
named in honor of James Talbott, the only Union Township boy to die in Vietnam.
There were 57 charter members.
The VFW building is the former Green Belt Fertilizer building on the west side
of the Penn-Central Railroad tracks two blocks south of Main Street.
[Kewanna, Thelma Johnston, Wade Bussert, Jan Cessna, and Tammy Evans, Fulton Co
Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LODGES - KIWANIS CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester Chamber of Commerce
LODGES - KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS [Rochester, Indiana]
KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS HISTORY
In June, 1884, C. D. Sisson, who was a member of he Knights of Pythias, at
Ashland, Ohio, Joseph Copeland, who was a member of Marion Lodge, Ohio, and S.
P. Terry, concluded to attempt to organize a K. of P. lodge at Rochester, Ind.
S. P. Terry corresponded with Grand Chancellor Dunlap in regrd to instituting a
lodge. He secured the necessary blanks and the boys got busy. In a short time
they had secured the signatures of the following persons, who became Charter
Members:
S. P. Terry I. W. Brown Ben Heilbrun
M. S. Weills Joe Levi Leon Kewney
K. W. Shore J. F. Johnson Chas. D. Sisson
Ferd Heilbrun F. W. Busenburg A. E. Rapsh
S. G. Steiglitz W. E. Becker J. C. Copeland
R. S. Stewart John C. Phillips Jos. F. Siegfriet
Sigmond Lauer Henry Morrison J. F. Barcus
Nathan Kramer
They next secured a warrant and arrangements were made to institute the new
lodge on the evening of July 3, 1884, at I.O.O.F. Hall. That evening Grand
Chancellor Dunlap and Grand Instructor Heiskel were present, and assisted by
Hyperion Lodge, No. 117, of Plymouth, Indiana, they instituted what is now
Fredonia Lodge No. 122.
Before the instituting of the lodge, the Grand Chancellor asked if they had a
name for the lodge. S. P. Terry suggested that as we already had a Rochester
Masonic lodge and Rochester I.O.O.F. lodge, that the name of the K.P. lodge be
something besides Rochester, and proposed the name of Fredonia, the same being
impressed upon his mind by the private car of Col. Condit Smith, president of
the construction company which built the Chicago & Erie railroad, being of
that name, he having named the car after the home town, Fredonia, N.Y., which
name was adopted.
The first and second ranks were conferred and then intermission was taken for
supper, which was prepared by Mrs. I. W. Brown and furnished by the Colonel. The
third rank was then conferred, after which the following officers were elected
and installed: Ben Heilbrun, P.C.; J. L. Copeland, C.C.; S. P. Terry, V.C.; M.
S. Weills, P.; K. W. Shore, M. of Ex.; N. Kramer, M. of F.; Ferd Heilbrun, K. of
R. and S.; J. F. Barcus, M. at A.; H. Morrison, I.G.; I. W. Brown, O.G. Lodge
was duly instituted about daybreak upon the morning of July 4, 1884. July 17,
1884, the resignation of J. C. Copeland, C.C., was read, and as he had not been
present since his installation, was accepted, and S. P. Terry, who had filled
the position pro tem, was elected as C.C. and J. C. Phillips as V.C.
For the first few months of its existence he lodge was financially weak, and
whenever any money was needed, C.C. S. P. Terry went down in his pocket and
procured the same. A short time after being instituted the lodge was invited to
assist in instituting Hercules Lodge No. 127, of Peru. Officers and members
responded, taking the band with them, and assisted in the work. Later they were
invited to North Manchester to do some work, and were highly complimented by
Grand Chancellor Charles Shively for their proficiency in the work. Afterward
they went to Michigan City and there added laurels to their reputation. Later
they assisted in instituting Argos and Kewanna lodges, and instituted Akron and
Fulton lodges.
April 15, 1886, a committee, consisting of Ferd Heilbrun and J. C. Phillips, was
appointed to ascertain the feeling and the possibility of organizing a division
of the Uniform Rank, and on May 24, 1886, a division of the Uniform Rank, known
as Rochester Division, No. 27, U.R.K. of P., was instituted by James R.
Carnahan, Major General U.R.K.P., with the following Charter Members:
Ferd Heilbrun Al. Ford John C. Phillips
Wm. W. McMahan Sam'l Heilbrun C. W. Brackett
W. H. Deniston L. Wohlgemuth Soloman Allman
Nathan Kramer C. D. Sisson Chas. Brouilett
Joseph F. Siegfried L. M. Brackett J. P. Michael
E. F. Johnston F. W. Bosenburg Chas. M. Shoup
F. H. Cornelius M. S. Weills W. E. Becker
G. W. Taylor R. C. Wallace James A. Terry
M. O. Rees C. Cooper Chas. F. Meyer
G. H. Killen A. B. Sabin John Wallace
Charles Hoover D. L. Gaskill E. C. Stanton
A. Biccard Clark Babcock
The first captain being John C. Phillips. After instituting the division a
banquet was given at the Wallace Hotel. The division added more honor to the
reputation of Fredonia Lodge by winning in drills over such divisions as
Logansport, South Bend, LaPorte, Michigan City and Huntington. On March 11,
1886, Emrick's Band was adopted by the lodge and given the name of K. of P.
Band. On July 1, 1886, they left I.O.O.F. hall and went to Masonic hall, where
they remained until June 27, 1889, when they went back to I.O.O.F. hall.
January 24, 1889, there were two propositions submitted to the lodge to build
and lease a castle hall; one from Brackett & Barrett and the other from J.
B. Fieser, which were taken under advisement until the next meeting. At the next
regular meeting, Jan. 31, 1889, the trustees were instructed to accept the
proposition of Brackett & Barrett, which was to build and lease to the lodge
a castle hall on the south half of the third floor of the block which they were
planning to build, namely, what is known as the Arlington Block. At the same
meeting a committee of three, which afterwards was increased to four, to be
known as an advisory committee, to act in conjunction with the trustees, until
the new hall was built and furnished, was appointed, the committee, consisting
of S. P. Terry, C. B. Moore, Enoch Myers and Newt McQueen. April 18, 1889, a
committee consisting of Lou Wohlgemuth, Charles Brackett and Floyd Herman was
appointed to fix the time and make arrangements for laying the corner stone of
the new hall. May 30 a committee of five, consisting of H. A. Barnhart, R. C.
Wallace, Enoch Myers, P. M. Buchanan and S. P. Terry was appointed to prepare
the ceremonies for laying the corner stone. Afterward, S. P. Terry and Enoch
Myers were appointed to prepare a synopsis of the lodge, a list of the charter
members, also of all the members up to that date, the first and present officers
of the lodge, a list of Past Chancellors, also of the Grand and Supreme
officers, to be deposited in the corner stone, which was laid June 6, 1889.
Es-Senator Zimmerman when introduced delivered the address of welcome on behalf
of the citizens. The senator spoke briefly, opening his remarks with an eloquent
welcome, couched in the following language:
Once within the borders of our city, her freedom is yours. We welcome you, not
as strangers, but as our gests and friends, and while in our midst you are a
part of the common household, a part of the great family of this peaceful and
prosperous community. None are more hospitable and kind, none more sociable and
generous than the good people who surround you this hour. No pilgrim ever
entered the gates of this city and departed hungry. No man or woman in distress
or danger, knocking at the doors of her denizens for protection, shelter or
relief, was ever refused. Such is tradition and the history of our town. Pardon
me, when asserting that we feel a modest pride in our city. Not because she is a
great metropolis, not because she is the abode of millionaires and lords, not
because we can boast of riches and wealth, but because within the city's
confines are contained most precious jewels--jewels of virtue and all the
attainments and attributes of superior manhood and womanhood, because crime,
poverty and indolence are unknown within her walls, whilst industry, peace and
happiness mark the pathway of her homogenous population. We welcome you because
you have come hither to honor Fredonia Lodge--an organization composed of the
flower of the community, and which is today the pride and admiration of the
city. Although the junior fraternal order of Fulton county, her charter dating
back but five short years, in point of strength and character, in discipline and
general prosperity, she surpasses her worthy senior rivals. We welcome you
because we see inscribed upon your handsome proud banner the significant motto:
"Friendship, Charity and Benevolence," which embrace at once the
cardinal principles of true christianity, genuine philanthropy and good
fellowship.
The senator also referred to the sublime example of true friendship demonstrated
by Damon and Pythias, from which the order took its origin, and eulogized the
fundamental principles of Pythianism--Friendship, Charity and Benevolence--in a
most eloquent tribute.
At the close of this speech the glee club rendered the beautiful quartette,
"Over Land and Sea," after which the procession was reformed and
marched to the site of the new building. Here the opening ode of the order was
sung, and Prelate J. H. Winans deliverd a fervent prayer. Then the president,
vice-president, secretary, treasurer and architect,viz: Sam P. Terry, P. M.
Buchanan, Charles K. Plank, Enoch Myers and Robert C. Wallace, laid the corner
stone with impressive ceremonies, after which the president delivered a short
address, and the exercises were closed by the pronunciation of the benediction
by Rev. J. H. Neff.
About the 1st of January 1890, the lodge moved from I.O.O.F. hall into the new
hall. On January 9, a committee of five, consisting of Joseph Levi, C. D.
Sisson, A. L. Rannells, A. T. Richter and P. M. Buchanan, was appointed to make
arrangements to dedicate the new hall, and also a committee of three, consisting
of E. A. Rannells, Charles Brackett and O. A. Davis, was appointed to prepare a
banquet for the same. On Jan. 21, 1890, the present castle hall was dedicated,
with a membership of 114, by the following improvised grand officers: G.C.C., H.
A. Barnhart; G.V.C., M. A. Baker; G.P., C. D. Sisson; G.K. of R. and S., A.
Biccard; G.M. of Ex., M. P. Phillips; Herald, E. A. Rannells; G.M. at A.,
Charles Brackett; G.I.G., Estilla Bailey; G.O.G., James A. Terry. The ceremonies
were admirably given, being both beautiful and impressive. These ceremonies
over, the doors to the banquet room were thrown open and the assemblage,
numbering more than one hundred Knights and their ladies, were seated, where
they feasted, broke bread and tipped cups to the everlasting prosperity of
"Fredonia Lodge. The tables were then removed, and to the delightful
strains of Williamson's orchester, the knights and ladies tripped the light
fantastic far into the midnight hour.
Dec. 28, 1888, a committee of three, consisting of I. W. Brown, Adolph Biccard
and N. McQuern, were appointed to make arrangements to institute a ladies' rank,
and on Dec. 4, 1890, I. W. Brown, chairman of the committee, reported that after
nearly two years of hustling, he had made the propert arrangements, and on Dec.
17, 1890, a ladies' rank, known as the Pythian Sisterhood, was instituted by
Grand Chief Alice M. Gilman, with a charter membersip of fifty-four ladies and
thirteen knights, as follows:
Mrs. Vernon Gould, Belle Slusser, Dollie Siegfried, Mollie Baker, Julia Hoover,
Dora Rannells, Alice Allman, Bertha Rosenberg, Maria Deniston, Mary L. Zook,
Theressa Levi, Mabel Tipton, Pauline Bowers, Dove Miller, Essa Bailey, Etta
Gast, Mollie Phillips, Clara Bitters, Ora Myers, Rose Killen, Eva Bennett, Hida
Wohlgemuth, Edith Rhyan, Carrie Shore, Kate Cooper, Estella Reiter, Jennie
Sisson, Lena Fretz, Fannie McMahan, Hala Myers, Isadore Goss, Angie Lowe, Ellen
Essick, Ella Brackett, Byrd Mercer, Maggie Buchanan, Emma Brown, Retta Barnhart,
Sarah Brackett, Rose Reed, Mary Wolf, Emma Wilson, Belle Woods, Minnie Plank,
Nona Butler, Mary Butler, Mollie Rannells, Nellie Wallace, Lizzie Stanton,
Louisa Holman, Mrs. J. P. Michael, May Terry, Mrs. Charles Swartwood and Mrs.
Orton Mitchell. Knights--I. W. Brown, C. D. Sisson, C. K. Plank, J. F.
Siegfried, F. C. Wilson, S. P. Terry, Joseph Levi, J. C. Phillips, G. H. Killen,
Jacob Rosenburg, L. B. Walters, L. Wohlgemuth, and M. M. Bitters, by card from
North Manchester, Indiana. The organization adopted the name of Isabelle Temple,
No. 33. The following officers were elected and installed: P.C., Mary Wolf;
M.E.C., Emma Wilson; M.E.S., Hala Myers; M.E.J., Rose Killen; M. of F., Rose
Reed; M. of R. and S., May Terry; M. of F., Dora Rannells; P. of T., Estella
Reiter; G. of O.T., Minnie Plank.
The lodge gradually increased in membership up to the latter part of 1893, when
there was a revival started, and during that period and the first half of 1894,
thirty-six were added to the membership. About this time there was an
inclination upon the part of the older members to shift the responsibilities and
duties of the lodge upon the shoulders of the younger members. Those who had
been present at the beginning of the lodge and had guided its early footsteps as
an unmanned barque upon an unknown sea, out of the silence of darkness which
entombed it into the light of day and prosperity, a strong, healthy youngster,
able to combat with the best, backed up by the principles and teachings of
Friendship, Charity and Benevolence, considered that their active work was done,
and the results, after a quarter of a century, have shown that it was well done.
Although the majority of them still retained their membership, they gradually
ceased, one by one, to be active members, until, at the present, there are but
three or four of the old members who are active workers. The next largest
increase in membrship was in the term beginning Jan. 1, 1899, and ending June
30, 1899, when the membership was increased by twenty-eight. The banner term was
the last term, ending June 30, 1909, marking the twenty-fifth anniversary of the
lodge, when the membership was increased thirty-five, making the largest number
taken in during any one term of the lodge. On the 13th of May, 1909, the rank of
Knight was conferred on twenty-five Esquires. At 7 o'clock p.m. the members and
visitors met at the hall, and, headed by the Citizens' (K.P.) Band, marched up
Main street and down again. While a good turn out was expected, the parade was a
surprise, as over 250 members and visitors, including the twenty-five candidats
for Knightly honors and the goat, turned out. The commodious hall was well
filled, and the excellent team of Fredonia Lodge conferred the work in an
excellent and impressive manner, omitting nothing of the work; but working
without unnecessary delay, the work was completed by 1:00 a.m.
Soon after the work began announcement was made that lunch would be served in
the adjoining hall, and notwithstanding the large crowd, there was plenty, and
the committee was kept busy until 1:00 a.m. During the work the band furnished
music, and after the work the quartet sang for the lodges. Atwell Siegfried, son
of Joe Siegfrid, one of the charter members, was given a little extra at the
close, and Brother Alvah McCarter performed a stunt not down on the program.
There were present large delegations from Fulton, Akron and Argos; also
representatives of lodges in Frankfort, Delphi, Indianapolis and Osage City,
Kan. The officers and active working members of that term are deserving of great
praise and credit for their earnest and diligent work on behalf of Pythianism,
and also went to prove that the trust placed upon the younger members by the
older ones was not misplaced.
During the twenty-five years of Fredonia Lodge's existence there was taken into
membership 471; lost by death, 20; by withdrawal card, 40; by suspension for
non-payment of dues, 96; by expulsion, 6. Making a membership at the close of
the term ending June 30, 1909, of 308. During the above time there was paid out
of the exchequer of the lodge for relief, $10,624.74. The deceased members of
the order are:
J. F. Johnson, Kt. J. A. Carter, P.C. A. E. Rapsh, Kt.
Jos. C. Zolman, Kt. Wm. Downey, Kt. E. C. Stanton, Kt.
E. Neil Hoyte, Kt. Chas. H. Hoover, Kt. Rudy Bybee, Kt.
H. L. Weltmer, Kt. A. L. Rannells, Kt. Wm. Pontious, Kt.
Lon Stockberger, Kt. P. E. Terry, P.C. E. Thompson, Kt.
E. M. Polley, Kt. Lon J. Hoffman, Page John King, Kt.
Bloomfield Metzler, Kt.
Fredonia Lodge has had its ups and downs, its seasons of joy and hours of
sorrow, but it has at all times stood ready and willing to lend a helping hand
to those in need and sorrow. Like in every other organization, there may have
been some members who have not at times come up to that standard which is
measurd by the principles of Pythianism, but take them as a body, it will be
hard to find a more loyal-hearted, chivalric band of Knights in the Supreme
Domain than those who dwell within the castle hall of Fredonia Lodge No. 122,
and they make better citizens, better husbands, fathers, sons and brothers by
having taken the vows and obligations of Pythianism.
Joseph F. Siegfried
C. D. Sisson
K. W. Shore, Committee
E. E. Borden, K. of R. and S.
[Marguerite L. Miller, Home Folks, Vol. II, 1910, pp. 72-78]
LODGES - KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS BAND [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
See: Third Regiment Band
__________
After Levi Emrick became leader of the G.A.R. band, the band became the
Knights of Pythias Band. New names were added: Sam Heilbrun, Joe Heilbrun,
Julius Michaels, William Williamson, Clinton Pfones and othrs. In 1887 the band
was managed by Bill Downey, and Charles Brouillette was featured as the drum
major.
After reorganization, this band became the Third Regiment Band.
LODGES - KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS HALL [Kewanna, Indiana]
Located in Toner Block upstairs (above Farmers & Merchants Bank).
LODGES - LEITERS FORD I.O.O.F. [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
The fast train on the Erie will stop at Leiters Ford next Wednesday evening for
the benefit of the Rochester I.O.O.F. who attend the dedication of the new hall
there.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, January 10, 1907]
BIG TIME AT LEITERS
About seventy-five Rochestr Odd Fellows went to Leiters Ford yesterday and
helped dedicate their new hall there. Delegations from Star City, Fulton, Akron,
Monterey, Maxinkuckee, Kewanna and Green Oak were also present, about three
hundred in all.
Grand Secretary W. H. Leedy, of Indianapolis delivered the speech of the evening
setting forth the growth of the lodge, its benefits and purposes. Dr. B. F.
Overmyer of Leiters also made a good speech. The members of the Richland Center
lodge gave the initatory degree, Rochester the first degree, Maxinkuckee the
second and Kewanna the third. Fred Tipton and Will Hoffman furnished the music.
After the work was finished the Rebekahs gave a fine banquet to about five
hundred people.
The Odd Fellows order of Leiters now has one of the best halls in the country
and it cost at lerast six thousand dollars. Sixty-three members are enrolled.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, January 17, 1907]
LODGES - LEITERS FORD ORDER OF RED MEN [Leiters Ford, Indiana]
LEITERS
The Order of Red Men organized a lodge at Leiters Tuesday evening with
twenty-two members, with the following officers: T. Salt, prophet; Rev. W. I.
Boyd, chief sachcem; William Yelton, senior sagamore; E. E. Hiatt, junior
sagamore; John F. Myers, chief of records; Earle See, collector of wampum; Loy
Cook, keeper of wampum; G. A. Howell, guard of the forest; Clark Bailey, guard
of the wigwam. The name of the order is the Aubbeenaubbee tribe.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 9, 1911]
DEGREE OF POCAHONTAS
Aubbeenaubbee Council, No. 316, of the Degree of Pocahontas, was duly organized
by the Great Pocahontas, Nana Diggs, of Muncie, Ind., at Leiters Tuesday
evening, May 9. The charter list closed with fifty-one signatures, thirty-one of
whom were ladies, the remaining twenty being members of the Tribe. The work was
put on by a degree staff, consisting of twenty-two ladies of the Past Pocahontas
degree staff of Indianapolis.
The following great officers of the council were present: Great Pocahontas, Nana
Diggs, Muncie; Great Winona, Stella Bird, Cambridge City; Great Keeper of
Records, Pearl Thornburg, Daleville; Great Minnehaha, Lizzie Arbuckle, Kokomo;
Past Great Keeper of Records and Degree Master, Hattie Hopkins, Indianapolis.
The Great Sachem, C. C. Norris, Rushville, of the Improved Order of Red Men of
Indiana, was also present at the occasion. Prior to the adoption of the
"palefaces," the ladies spread a beautiful repast, to which all
present did ample justice. The evening was very pleasantly spent and the council
starts out with the brightest of prospects.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 10, 1911]
LODGES - MANITOU MOOSE LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
MOOSE BUY RED MEN'S HALL
The order of Moose, which was organized in Rochester four years ago last August,
Tuesday purchased of the Red Men their hall on East 8th Street for $1,600. The
Red Men have no plans for the future. The Moose lodge has become one of the
largest organizations in Rochester, having 187 members.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 21, 1917]
MOOSE LODGE HAS NEGOTIATED FOR ACADEMY OF MUSIC
Negotiations for the purchase of the Academy of Music building, corner Main and
Fifth streets have been completed by trustees representing the Rochester lodge,
Loyal Order of Moose, it was formally announced Tuesday.
The Moose lodge, one of the most aggressive organizations in the city, has long
been seeking a suitable home and in the purchase of the old landmark is believed
to have accomplished its aim.
While the theater the building housed has long been declared condemned by state
authorities, it was not because of its actual structural work, which is said to
be sound as the day it was built, but because of the heating and lighting
system, which has long been out of date.
The Moose lodge plans to install an entirely new heating system and to wire the
whole building for electric lights, which, it is stated, will meet with the
approval of the state fire marshal's office.
Definite plans for the changing of the building have not yet been announced, but
are expected to be perfected and work started in the very near future. It is
understood the building was purchased of the Davidson estate for a consideration
slightly in excess of $5,000.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 15, 1924]
MOOSE WANT THEIR ROOM
The Manitou Moose Lodge has started proceedings to gain possession of a room in
the Academy of Music building occupied by the Briggs Farrar Drug Store and for
the collection of $80 back rent. The suit was filed in Justice Ewing's court.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, October 27, 1924]
LODGES - RICHLAND TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY ASSN [Richland Township]
Incorporated May 24, 1969.
Purchased the Richland Center High School, built in 1918, and Elementary School,
built in 1904.
LODGES - ROCHESTER D.A.R. [Rochester, Indiana]
[See D.A.R.]
LODGES - ROCHESTER G.A.R. [Rochester, Indiana]
See Fulton County Court House Flag Pole
__________
McCLUNG POST CHANGES ROOMS
Recently the members of the McClung post requested the officials of the First
National bank to use the assembly room downstairs for their headquarters in the
future, because so many of the old soldiers have become so feeble that it is
impossible for them to climb the two long flights of stairs to the second story
of the court house where their rooms are now located. The bank officers granted
their request, because they thought that nothing was too good for the Civil war
veterans. They also gave them the privilege to move their books and pictures and
war relics which they have collected into their new quarters. Rev. Butler of
this city is the post commander.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 27, 1920]
A CORRECTION
In Tuesday's issue of the Sentinel, a story was carried that the members of the
McClung Post had requested the officials of the First National Bank to use their
assembly hall for the post club rooms. According to the post commander, H. E.
Butler, this was an error as the post has not taken any official action as yet
in the matter. Members of the post inspected the rooms and the officials of the
bank stated that the old soldiers could have them for the purpose, but it will
not be decided until the next regular meeting of the post whether or not the
club rooms will be moved from the court house to the bank building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 28, 1920]
LODGES - ROCHESTER G.A.R. BAND [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Civil War
See: Rochester Bands
__________
Organized October 22, 1883, Billy Rannells, director. Members included Viv
Essick, cornet; L. B. Walters, cornet; Charles Shepherd, cornet; S. C. Reed,
cornet; J. W. F. Smith, picolo; H. F. Crim, alto; J. S. Crim, alto; J. C.
Tipton, alto; Billy Casad, slide trombone; William Rannells, baritone; W. M.
Downey, tenor; L. B. Myers, tenor; Charles Clymer, tuba; Charles McCarter, snare
drum; and A. Myers, bass drum. William Casad, the star trombone player, later
left Rochester to join the Hi Henry Minstrels.
Later the band was directed by Levi Emrick, and the band became the Knights of
Pythias Band.
LODGES - ROCHESTER I.O.G.T.LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
We noticve by the papers that our fellow townsman, Mr. David R. Pershing, was
elected, by the National Lodge of Good Templars, which convened at Nashville,
Tennessee, May 22nd, 1860, as Right Worthy Grand Treasurer of that association.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 9, 1860]
Special Notice. The Ministers of Fulton County are requested to preach a
Sermon on the subject of Temperance at their earliest convenience by a
resolution passed by the I.O. of G.T. in this place. R. P. Smith, W. Sec.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 19, 1861]
The 2nd Anniversary of Taylor Lodge, No. 36, I.O. of G.T., will be celebrated
on Friday evening, the 29th inst at the new school house, in this place.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 23, 1861]
Notice. . . Installation of officers of I.O.G.T. Lodge, with a large number
of Good Templars present. A two day meeting to commence at Akron on Tuesday next
. . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 15, 1862]
I.O.G.T., Taylor Lodge No. 36 meets in the Odd Fellows Hall every Friday
evening. Degree Temple meets on the 2d Tuesday of each month.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
Notice. Rev. J. B. DeMotte to preach on temperance at I.O.G.T., February 8,
Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 7, 1863]
Resolutions. Taylor Lodge No. 37, I.O.G.T. . . our esteemed brothers, Captain
Lewis Hughs and Sergeant James B. Osborn, of Company D, 87th Indiana Volunteers,
worthy members of this Lodge, were slain in the late battle of Chickamauga . . .
D. S. Gould, W.C.T. C. E. Fuller, W.S.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, November 12, 1863]
I.O.G.T. This Lodge met at its last regular meeting on Friday Evening last,
when the following officers were installed: William Baker, Miss Mattie Trimble,
L. M. Spotts, R. Phelps, Miss Sallie Ralstin, D. S. Gould, J. S. Donaldson, Miss
Emma Gould, Bro. Ralstin, Miss Mattie Hawkins, Miss Jennie Martin, Miss Ella J.
Rex, Miss Hattie Osgood, James M. Beeber.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, November 8, 1866]
LODGES - ROCHESTER I.O.O.F. BAND [Rochester, Indiana]
The Citizens Band changed into the I.O.O.F. band in 1923, and practiced at
I.O.O.F. building, NW corner 9th & Main, but because of noise, moved to the
American Legion home, NE corner 13th & Madison.
William Rannells, director. Other directors Viv Essick, John Surguy and Ayrton
Howard..
Floyd Christman reports that in 1918, the band practiced one night a week and
played three nights a week in the summer: Tuesdays in Mentone, Wednesdays in
Rochester, and Thursdays in Kewanna, and for seven years during the 1920's the
band participated in the 500 Mile Race, each member receiving $5 for the day.
The band played at Chicago World Exposition in 1934 with Ayrton Howard as
director.
The band was gradually replaced by the Rochester High School Band, and played
its last concert in 1944.
LODGES - ROCHESTER I.O.O.F. LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
The Masons' homeless situation was becoming serious, but when it seemed hopeless
an unusual source provided a rescue. It was another Fraternal Order - the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which had just completed a new Hall on the
southwest corner of 7th & Jefferson streets where the Methodist Church now
stands. With the consent of the Grand Ruling Bodies of both Orders, an
arrangement was made whereby both Lodges could use the same quarters by
alternating their meeting dates and providing separate storage space for each
Lodge's secret regalia and equipment. This generous offer was deeply appreciated
by the Masons and it contributed to harmonious relations between the two Orders
which continues to the present time.
[Rochester Masonic Lodge, Fred C. McClurg, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
Rochester Lodge, No. 47, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, meet in their Hall on Jefferson street, every Saturday evening . . . J. Myers, N.G., T. F. Rannells, Secy.
Rev. J. B. DeMotte will preach on the subject of Temperance, at the request
of the Grand Lodge of the I.O. of Good Templars, on Sunday evening, February
8th, at 6-1/2 o'clock. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 5, 1863]
__________
Mt. Horeb Encampment Number 24, Independent Order of Odd Fellows regular
meetings, the First and Third Monday evenings of each month at Odd Fellows Hall.
A. J. Holmes, C.P., D. R. Pershing, Scribe.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
Rochester Graded School. Will commence at the Odd Fellows Hall in Rochester
on the Second Monday of April, 1860. . . L. D. Willard, Principal; Mattie V.
Ernsperger, Assistant; Prof. Wm. Montgomery, Music Teacher.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 31, 1860]
To the Officers and Members of Mt. Horeb Encampment, No. 24, I.O.O.F.:
Brothers: The Committee to whom was referred the case of Bro. J. B. Eldridge, in
regard to the death of his Wife, beg leave to offer for adoption, the following
. . . Respectfully submitted, W. T. Cleland, C. S. Hickman, T. F. Rannells.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, May 10, 1860]
I.O.O.F. - Rochester Lodge No. 47 meets every Saturday evening. Mt. Horeb
Encampment No. 24 meets the first and third Monday evenings of each month.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
FULTON COUNTY ODD FELLOWS
By Dell Kessler
In the series of articles preceding this the life and history of our community
has been reflected, as well as the personality of the various individuals who
wrote the articles. It is from the records of the past that we learn to measure
our progress and thus formulate and forecast for the future. From the experience
of many of the writers of these articles referred to, we have gleaned much that
was of interest and value concerning our community. While the individual is the
unit of society, yet any sociological organization of individuals whose
interests become common, such as churches, fraternal societies, etc., is also of
moment and interst to the community, as they are the expression of a common
interest of a collection of individuals. Believing that the fraternal society is
an important and useful element of a community, and also believing that Odd
Fellowship has accomplished much that has been for the more complete and better
development of the community, the writer, at the request of friends, is
submitting the following as a sketch history of Odd Fellowship at Rochester:
Upon a petition of J. H. Staley, W. H. Mann, Anthony F. Smith and Samuel Staley,
the I.O.O.F. Grand Lodge of Indiana on July 15th, 1847, issued a charter
authorizing the institution of Rochester Lodge No. 47. This lodge was one of the
early pioneers in the field of Odd Fellowship, having been established about
twenty-eight years after the first American Odd Fellow Lodge had been founded by
Thomas Wildly at Baltimore, April 28th, 1819. Thus this lodge is in its
sixty-second year, and in those three-score years and two reflect, in point of
time practically the entire history of Fulton county. There is no brother of
this lodge now living who witnessed the birth of No. 47; but no doubt many of
our more aged brothers and citizens may have many pleasant and personal memories
of those whose petition made the institution of this lodge possible. At the time
of the founding of this local lodge our community was new. Few indeed were the
changes that the hand of man had wrought to that section now known as Fulton
county where forests stood primeval, and where now are our fine farms and
flourishing villages. Fulton county had been organized only eleven years
previous, and the small town of Rochester had been platted out by Alexander
Chamberlain and Lot N. Bozarth for a period of only twelve years. The Indian had
scarcely ceased building his wigwm and birch bark canoe on the banks of Lake
Manitou and Tippecanoe, his removal from this, his former hunting ground, had
been accomplished for but a period of eight or nine years, when Odd Fellowship
was founded at Rochester. Thus, it is true, that in point of time, Rochester Odd
Fellowship reflects practically the entire life of Fulton county, and it is the
oldest lodge of any fraternal society in the county.
Let us reflect back over these three-score years and two, which represent the
life of Rochester lodge, the aged in memory, the younger in history, and follow
briefly what the local odd Fellows believe to be a successful career. Few, if
any, are the old landmarks now standing to guide the memory back to this earlier
days. Rochester Lodge No. 47 was instituted in a frame strucure on the west side
of Main street, about where the Zook hardware store is located today, and its
first permenent home, which they owned, was the second story of a very modest
frame structure, situated on the [SW] corner of Jefferson and Seventh streets,
which corner is now occupied by the Methodist church. Handicapped by lack of
members, lack of paraphernalia and many of the now supposed-to-be necessities,
the pioneer brothers struggled against difficulties and established the lodge
upon a firm and safe foundation. The lodge then conferred upon the candidate
five degrees at a minimum cost of $25.00 and paid $3.00 per week sick benefits.
The lodge now confers the work for a minimum price of $10.00 and pays $4.00 per
week sick benefits and $75.00 funeral expenses, and furnishes a nurse day and
night if required. Some of our present members were made Odd Fellows amidst
these adverse surroundings. For instance, Brother Isaac Good, who was initiated
September 15, 1849. He is the oldest member in Rochester Lodge, and one of the
oldest in Indiana in point of continuous membership, and, if perchance, Brother
Isaac Good is seen trudging down the pathway of life assisted by a gold-headed
walking stick, or the venerable old Jonas Myers is seen peacefully recling in
the large Morris chair at his rsidence on Jefferson street, it can be remembered
that these are presents from Rochester Lodge No. 47, given to show their
appreciation of the lodge for their long, continuous membership and sturdy
efforts to make Odd Fellowship what it is today.
Having outgrown their former quarters, negotiations were closed whereby the
lodge became the owner of their present home, the third story of the brick
building at the [NW] corner of Main and Ninth streets, and the same was
dedicated as such on August 15, 1870. A very important act, and one which has
been very highly appreciated by the community, was the establishment, in 1855,
of the Odd Fellows cemetery. A total of 1828 now lie buried in our silent city
of the dead, and it has become a source of pride to the lodge and community. On
January 19th, 1853, upon a petition of John H. Stailey, Anthony F. Smith,
Charles W. Brackett, Robert Rannells, Henry Alexander, James H. Tucker and
William Sayger, a charter was granted to Mt. Horeb Encampment No. 24, I.O.O.F.,
and thus an opportunity was given for members of Rochester and surrounding
subordinate lodges to receive the advanced work of the order. The membership of
this department have always been noted for their social good times, frequent
picnics and banquets.
On August 15, 1870, upon the petition of John W. and Eliza J. Davis, David and
Ella Barb, Samuel and Sarah T. Heffley, A. L. and Deborah Goodrich, and Samuel
and Susan J. Barkdoll, a charter was granted to Evergreen Rebekah Lodge No. 57.
This department is officered and managed exclusively by the ladies, who must be
wives and daughters of Odd Fellows in good standing, Odd Fellows, or single
ladies, to be eligible to membership. Evergreen Rebekah Lodge No. 57 is one of
the most active lodges in the community, and a great deal of good is
accomplished through this branch of the order. Woman is especially adapted to
the care of the sick and afflicted, and the Daughters of Rebekah have ever been
ready to give that help and comfort which is so needful in the day of trial. The
membership of the various departments of the order at Rochester are as follows:
Subordinate, 268 members; Rebekah, 171 members, and Encampment, 63 members.
Besides various donations to other lodges and members in distress, flowers to
sick and deceased members, these various departments expended last year for the
care of their members about $1,200. These departments have property, consisting
of lodge hall, furniture and fixtures, parahpernalia, cemetery, notes and other
properties, of a total value of over $13,000.
Among the present and deceased membership, Rochester Lodge No. 47 enrolls many
of the leading Rochester citizens. The growth of the lodge from its beginning
has been steady and sure. At its beginning and through its early history
conditions were such as to present many difficulties to the organization, one of
which was the prejudice of the people, which time has practically eliminated, as
fraternal societies are now looked upon as being of help to any community, and
through the civil war its membership and attendance was much depleted by absent
members that were sacrificing their life blood on the field of action, and those
absent members were kept in good standing by the members here paying their dues
as they matured. But through it all Rochester I.O.O.F. Lodge No. 47 has existed,
and who can estimate the influence it has exerted toward placing Rochester and
community upon the high, moral and intellectual plane it enjoys today?
Rochester Odd Fellowship has a smaller working jurisdiction than any other lodge
in Rocheser, as there are more other Odd Fellow lodges in Fulton county than is
true of any other society here. There are ten I.O.O.F. lodges in Fulton county,
with an aggregate membersip of 1,000. Odd Fellowship in Rochester is today in a
very satisfactory condition in every way. Last year the present home was made
very attractive by a thorough overhauling, having a very attractive design of
paper hung upon its walls, new desks purchased, all the chairs upholstered and
varnished, and in all making a very pleasant and well-lighted home for its
membership. The financial condition is the best of any time in its history,
having accumulated enough funds to warrant, with careful handling, a sufficient
resource for all future needs. Its memership is large and active in all
departments, and the various degree staffs in splendid working order. And
especially true is this at present of the Rebekah Degree Staff, which has been
pronounced, by those in position to know, as being one of the best in the state.
The Rocheser degree teams frequently confer degrees for the other lodges at
other points in the county, and such invitations are favorably hailed by Odd
Fellowship, as it warrants a pleasant social time to all present.
In recent years, perhaps, there has been no such events that have been so
universally enjoyed by our membership as the dedication of the hall at Leiters
Ford, where Rochester and sister lodges met in great numbers, witnessed the
dedication ceremonies, assisted in the degree work and the consumption of a very
bounteous spread at that time. Another event which is especially well remembered
was the institution of the new lodge at Blue Grass, No. 840, which was
instituted about three years ago, as those who were present will remember some
additional excitement was caused by a fire, which originated during the degree
work, and which was put out only by timely and hard effort, and some of the
members were compelled to make the journey home in the wee sma' hours of the
night minus coat-tails and headgear. Perhaps the coolest of all present at the
time were the candidates, who took it all as a part of the cermony.
The teachings of the fraternity of Odd Fellows conform to law and sound
morality. They inculcate a veneration for religion and subordination to civil
government and its laws. To visit the sick, relieve the distressed, educate the
orphan and bury the dead are leading offices of our affiliations. The motto of
the order is "Friendship, Love and Truth." Its emblem is the three
links entwined, which is almost universally worn by its members.
When we reflect upon the age of our local lodge, its large and active
membership, its strong financial resources; when we witness the care with which
the order exercises for its members in distress, the care with which they
consign the dead bodies of deceased members to the grave; when we pass by the
beautiful cemetery which the order has prepared for the last resting place of
man; when we reflect on all this can we not conclude that Rochester Odd
Fellowship has done, and is now doing much that is of benefit and for the more
complete development of the community?
[Marguerite L. Miller, Home Folks, Vol. II, 1910, pp. 79-83]
I.O.O.F. PLANNING CLUB ROOM
Rochester lodge No. 47, I.O.O.F., is planning the remodeling of the second floor
of their building on the [NW] corner of Main and Ninth Sts., and work will
probably be started next week. The south part of the building is where the work
will be done and it is planned to have a reception and rest room in the front
part. The middle room will be used for cards, checkers and other small table
games, and a 60 foot room in the rear will be devoted to pool and billiards, two
pool and one billiard tables having been purchased by the lodge.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, April 15, 1919]
GREEN OAK I.O.O.F. LODGE MERGE WITH ROCHESTER
A most enjoyable event was held at the I.O.O.F. hall, this city, Wednesday
evening when a number of members from the Green Oak Lodge were present as guests
of the local order. The Green Oak Lodge will be abandoned in the near future and
the membership will be merged with the local lodge. This lodge was one of the
oldest in the state.
The change has become necessary due to the fact that the modern means of
transportation and the advantages offered in lodges located in larger cities
have served to cause a lack of interest in small community lodge. At the meeting
last night the local I.O.O.F. voted to take the entire Green Oak lodge
membership into the order. At an early date the official group of the Rochester
lodge will conduct a special meeting at Green Oak at which time the
consolidation will be effected.
Following the business session refreshments were served and the members of both
lodges enjoyed a most pleasurable social hour.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, September 17, 1931]
LODGES - ROCHESTER KNIGHTS & LADIES OF HONOR [Rochester, Indiana]
NEW LODGE FORMED
Rochester Lodge Knights and Ladies of Honor was instituted in the I.O.O.F. Hall
of this city last night with thirty-two charter applicants present.
Grand Secretary, J. H. Haught of Indianapolis, was present and performed the
ceremonies of instituting the lodge, assisted by Mr. Silas Moraan Deputy Grand
Protector who organized the local lodge.
By a resolution passed at the meeting it was decided to keep the charter open
until April 25th when a large class will be initiated and the degree staff of
Ravens Lodge No. 2220, of Logansport, will be present and confer the degree The
following officers were elected and installed:
Past Protector, Dr. Harley W. Taylor; Protector, Mrs. Elizabeth Haslett; Vice
Protector, Mr. William Hoffman; Recording Secretary, Miss Nettie Lowe; Financial
Secretary, Mr. Robert G. Orr; Treasurer, Mr. Frank R. Myers; Chaplin, Mrs.
Myrtle Stetson; Guide, Mr. Joseph Kochenderfer; Guardian, Miss Myrtle Odaffer;
Sentinel, Mrs. Ida A. Lowe; Trustees, Wm. F. Morris, Ezra I. Ware, Mrs. Moona
Schryock. This makes two lodges of the K. and L. of H. in this city. Fidelity
Lodge No. 339 was organized here twenty-seven years ago and still holds its
charter but is inactive. Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Long, Mrs. Maggie Hill and Mrs. M.
Reiter of the Old Lodge were present last night and was much elated at the
prospect of having a new and active lodge in this city.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 12, 1907]
REORGANIZE OLD LODGE
The order of Knights and Ladies of Honor is taking on new life in Rochester
under the reorganizing hands of Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Glick who have been in this
city since Oct 23 for that purpose.
The old organization was made here 28 years ago and had a membership of sixteen
members of which Cap. Long and wife, Mrs. Mattie Hill and John Stallard are all
that remain, the others having become scattered. The new lodge now has 26 relief
fund members and 8 social members. A large class will be initiated into the
order Thursday evening when a meeting will be held at Red Man's hall. Those to
be taken in are Dr. I. L. Babcock, Dr. Harvey Thornberg, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Mow,
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Shanks, Mrs. Versa Metz, D. E. Hart and Mrs. F. R. Orr.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, December 4, 1907]
LODGES - ROCHESTER KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS [Rochester, Indiana]
K. OF P'S ORGANIZE INSURANCE SOCIETY
At the county meeting of the K. of P. lodge held in the Rochester hall Thursday
evening, there was organized what will be known as the Fulton County K. of P.
Mutual Insurance Society, with 60 members.
Officers elected were Frank McCarter, president; Elmer Borden, secretary; A. B.
Green, treasurer and James Moore, L. L. Manning and William Brinkman of
Rochester, Louis Felder of Fulton and N. E. Reed of Akron on the executive
committee.
Membership fee in the society was placed at $1.00 and the dues are $1.25. The
benefits will be fixed according to the membership which, it is expected, will
be brot up to 300.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 4, 1919]
HOME TOWN TALES
By "Pioneer"
In the days of true fraternalism, Fredonia Lodge No. 122, Kinghts of Pythias,
ranked supreme in Rochester. While the early membership listed less than seventy
members, all were present each Thursday evening and spread the gospel of the
Order in every transaction.
Each newly elected presiding officer, faced the ordeal of his life, for test of
endurance, temper and every rule of parliamentary law - for he was elected to
retain the dignity of the high office against the wit and conjure of Charles D.
Sisson, Henry A. Barnhart, Dr. Charles J. Loring, Col. Isaac W. Brown, Merrit A.
Baker, Robert C. Wallace, Marion C. Reiter, Sherman Gibbons, Adolph Biccard,
James Johnson and Charles Stiver, all loyal Pythians, who long since have
lowered their visors and went forth into the Great Castle Hall of Silence, where
all true Knights again raise their voices and received the true and full meaning
of a simple "Sprig of Myrtle."
The popularity and worth of Pythianism developed a local membership of more than
four hundred. Today, the Order and all it teaches, struggles for an existence.
Can it be that men with open hands, open hearts - dispensing time and tolerance,
charity, encouragement and inspiration - with equal largeness - have forever
passed out of the life of this community?
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 1, 1935]
Rochester people dressed to attend social functions at the Knights of Pythias
Hall, also lost to this community by fire several years ago after the
organization almost ceased to function.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, August 25, 1958]
LODGES - ROCHESTER KU KLUX KLAN [Rochester, Indiana]
Also See Stephenson, D. C.
__________
NEW SECRET SOCIETY COMING TO ROCHESTER
Rochester is soon to be the home of a Ku Klux Klan organization, according to a
statement issued by two Peru members of the secret society who were in this city
Friday evening for the purpose of interrogating several charter members to
complete such an organization. Only a select few were invited to Friday night's
meeting, which was for the purpose of explaining the policies of the Klan, but
another meeting will be held next Friday evening in Rochester, at which time
definite steps will be taken towards securing the membership desired in this
community.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 4, 1922]
KLAN MAKES INITIAL DEMONSTRATION HERE
Rochester witnessed its first Ku Klux Klan demonstration here Saturday evening
when some 30 or 40 members of the "Invisible Empire" in a half dozen
motor cars paraded thru the streets of the city following a meeting just south
of the city where the fiery cross was seen burning.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, January 22, 1923]
FIERY CROSS BURNED HERE SUNDAY EVENING
The fiery cross, emblem of the Ku Klux Klan, was very much in evidence in
Rochester Sunday evening, altho why the city proper was selected for the display
is a secret that has not yet been divulged by the head members of the invisible
empire. According to witnesses, the light on the corner of Main and Ninth street
went out suddenly and a few moments later a car drove up in front of the flag
staff at the court house where a man jumped out and placed a burning cross in
position and then drove away. The same procedure was reported at the corner of
Main and Sixth streets and then a little later a cross was seen burning in East
Rochester near the Gauge Valve factory building.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 2, 1923]
MAMMOTH CROWD GATHERS TO SEE KLAN'S PARADE
Old time residents of this city declare that never in its history has Rochester
entertained so many visitors as were here Wednesday evening to see and take part
in the parade of the Ku Klux Klan staged immediately following the band concert.
While the affair was not given much publicity the crowds started to throng into
the city at five o'clock in the afternoon and by six almost every foot of
available automobile parking space on the streets was taken and a little later
in the evening the traffic had extended along all side streets leading off of
Main street.
Immediately after the concert, the Klansmen put in their appearance for the
first real demonstration of the kind ever staged in Rochester. They came from
the old fair grounds and marched onto Main street from Eleventh in a parade that
was made up of between 300 and 400 Knights all clad in the regalia of the order,
white robes and hoods bearing the Klan insignia.
The parade was several blocks long and was augmented by two bands and a fife and
drum corps. At the head of the parade a number of horsemen led the line of march
and as each unit passed there was a large American flag carried by Klansmen and
an automobile bearing a "Firey Cross" of electric lights, presenting
an imposing spectacle.
The parade marched down Main street to Fifth, thence west to Jefferson and back
to Main on Sixth street and then to the old fair grounds. The crowd was invited
to follow the marchers to the grounds where was staged the first public
initiation of candidates for the order.
A huge circle of some 50 or 60 Klansmen were "knighted" at the fair
grounds. A large number of Rochester people watched the spectacle and heard the
oath of allegiance administered by Klan officers.
During the parade some of the marchers and other Klansmen on the outskirts of
the crowd ordered the people watching to remove their hats as the flags passed
by. Near-fights were numerous as some of the crowd objected to the orders and in
some instances hats were forcibly removed. It was reported that one man was
taken to the fair grounds for refusing to remove his hat and there forced to
salute the flag, but this rumor could not be verified.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 14, 1923]
SALE OF KU KLUX KLAN MEMBERSHIP LIST
BY FORMER MINISTER CAUSES FURORS
Rochester has been experiencing quite a lot of excitement during the last few
days over the fact that a list supposed to be authentic of all of the members of
the local chapter of the Ku Klux Klan has fallen by means of a "sell
out," into the hands of the Fulton County News and a number of other men
who co-operated in buying the list. It is understood that the original list
numbering about 550 names now reposes in the safe deposit box of a local man in
a bank, while copies of it are being showed at will about the town. The names of
men who are candidates for public office are especially being shown.
The story goes that a former preacher, a Rev. Hiatt, who moved to this city and
became an active organizer in the Ku Klux was unable to pay his debts and made
it known in a letter to a local business man that "plenty of other
individuals were making money out of the Klan and that I am willing to make some
myself," and he would sell the complete roster for $1.00 each per name.
This information was spread around and the News soon had gathered about it a
group of individuals all bitterly opposed to the organization who were willing
to spend money to get the list. This crowd was composed of individuals who
opposed it for racial and religious reasons, others for political reasons,
others for law enforcement reasons and others for entirely personal reasons. The
necessary cash was quickly raised and at a meeting the preacher delivered the
list asking that he be given three hours start out of town before the news
became public. He had previously packed up his household goods and the morning
of the sale left his home in the southeast part of town before eight o'clock for
parts unknown.
Just what use will be made of the list outside of making political prejudice is
not known but as both parties are affected about the same in that the names of
many Republicans and Democratic candidates are included it will probably have
some affect on primary election. On the other hand it is understood that the
list which was sold was an old one and that the names of many persons who joined
in the first days of the organization and then becomiing dissatisfied resigned,
still appears on the list while on the other hand the names of many recent
joiners are not included.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 19, 1924]
BURN FIREY CROSSES
After having been active at the polls all day Tuesday throughout the county
soliciting votes, the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan burned several firey crosses
around the court house Tuesday evening at about 9 o'clock.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 7, 1924]
ANOTHER FIREY CROSS
Knights of the Ku Klux Klan staged another demonstration in Rochester Wednesday
evening when a large firey cross was burned on a vacant lot at the corner of
12th and Jefferson streets. In view of the fact that Editor Harold Van Trump
lives on that corner and that he had been fighting Klandom in Fulton county
through his newspaper the Daily News, it is believed that the cross was intended
for his benefit.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 8, 1924]
KLAN BUYS PROPERTY FOR HEADQUARTERS
While positive verification was not available Monday, it was reliably reported
here that the local order of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan has purchased the
A. H. Robbins property, corner Seventh and Jefferson Sts., the building to be
used for a Klan headquarters. The building, said to have been purchased of Mrs.
A. H. Robbins for a consideration approximately $5,000, is to be vacated and
work of preparing it for the use of the Klan to be started in the very near
future. It is said that the partitions on the lower floor will be removed and
that portion of the house used for the assembly room, while officers and
committee rooms will be in the upper floor.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 19, 1924]
KLAN FETE HERE SATURDAY PROVED ORDERLY AFFAIR
While the Klan fete in Rochester Saturday afternoon did not reach the
proportions expected - rumors having it that the crowd would range from 8,000 to
20,000 - the parade was one of the most interesting that has ever been seen in
Rochester and contrary to expectations as orderly as it could possibly have
been. Persons who counted the paraders estimated the total number in the line of
march at approximately 700.
The visiting knights did not start to gather until late in the afternoon when
the scheduled program was started at Long Beach, where the convention was held.
Speeches were made by high ranking officers of the order, including Pat Emmons
of S. Bend, who formerly lived in Rochester where he is well known.
The first public appearance of the Klansmen came at about nine o'clock when the
parade passed onto Ninth street from the Barrett road and turning north on Main
street went to the north end of the city wiere it counter-marched back to the
lake again.
Long before the hooded band made its appearance the streets of the city were
packed with a congestion seldom if ever seen in Rochester. The automobiles were
parked two deep on each side of the street and in front of the lines of cars
people jammed and milled around waiting for the parade. In the lead were some of
the high officials of the Klan mounted on horses, and following were two bands,
several drum corps and the various visiting delegations. There were several
floats in the parade which occupied a full mile and required about 15 minutes to
pass a given point.
Following the parade the delagation returned to Long Beach where there were
fireworks and the concluding numbers of the program.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 16, 1924]
HUNDREDS ATTEND KLAN HOME DEDICATION HERE
Four hundred members of the Ku Klux Klan from Fulton county and Plymouth, Argos,
Logansport, Kewanna, Kokomo, Peru, Wabash, Warsaw, Mentone, Wabash, Leiters
Ford, Delong, Akron, North Mancheste and Marion were present Tuesday evening at
the dedication of the new home of the Rochester order in the old Dr. Robbins
property at the [NW] corner of Jefferson and Seventh streets.
Following the public meeting and banquet, which consisted of fried chicken and
all the trimmings, a musical program was given by the Kewanna band and the
Kewanna Klan quartette. A speaker from the state Klan office was present and
gave an address. He was followed by speakers from the various Klan lodges
represented.
The local Klansmen were somewhat disappointed because Walter Bussart, grand
dragon of the order in Indiana Lee Smith and Judge Orbison, all of Indianapolis,
were unable to be present. They telephoned that they met with an automobile
accident north of Kokomo which forced them to abandon their trip.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 19, 1924]
__________
75 YEARS AGO, THE KU KLUX KLAN ATTRACTED 583 MEN HERE
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
[NOTE: See Considered Comment, Rochester, Sentinel, Tuesday, November 16, 1999
and Tuesday, November 23, 1999]
The climax of Rochester's Ku Klux Klan experience came 75 years ago on a festive
summer Saturday. Old Glory was flying from almost every store and residence, for
it was Flag Day, June 14, 1924. In the city was a crowd the size of which
"seldom if ever" had been seen before, according to The Sentinel.
People were jammed together along East Ninth and Main streets in front of their
autos that were parked two deep. .
They were waiting for a night parade promised by the more than 1,000 Klansmen
from miles around who were gathered for a rally at Long Beach amusement park on
the northeast shore of Lakc Manitou. The Klan was out to impress the public with
its power and magnificence.
At 9 p.m. the hooded and robed Knights of .the Invisible Empire began an
elaborate procession led by high Klan officials on horseback, followed by two
bands, a few drum corps, orderly ranks of marching Klansmen and floats depicting
KKK principles of patriotism, Protestantism and family. The Daily News counted
672 people in the eight-block long parade, which required 13 minutes to pass a
given point as it proceeded from Long Beach west on Ninth to Main, then north to
the Eric Railroad and back again to the lake.
The presence of so many citizens for this event quite likely reflected the
judgment of most of them that whatever else the Klan professed to be, it was
entertainment. Certainly it never represented the views of a majority of Fulton
County's 17.000 inhabitants.
When one of the, Klan's closely-guarded membership lists surfaced earlier in
1924, it was found to contain 583 names. With perhaps another 300 belonging to
the KJan's women's auxiliary, the Kamelia, less than 1,000 had signed on to the
Klan's racist philosophies. Critics who examined the list mocked the Klan for
boasting of its extreme patriotism. It was noted that of the 583 men on the
list, only 31 had served in World War I and just 10 were members of the local
American Legion Post.
More tolerant succeeding generations may consider 583 a number still too large
for acceptance, yet contemporary observers believed that more than half of the
583 were inactive, having signed under duress or to pleasc the recruiter, friend
or relative. Never did the Fulton County Klan prove itself capable of
influencing the course of local government or other public affairs, nor did it
resort to any acts of personal violence against its detractors.
The Ku Klux Klatn came to Fulton County the night of September 29, 1923, when an
ex-minister from Knox organized the chapter at a meeting attended by 150. It was
held at the Academy of Music building, Fifth and Main, the remnant of which just
now has been torn down. Even before the meeting Indiana Grand Dragon D. C.
Stephenson's organizers already were at work in the county signing up women and
children for the Klan's auxiliaries.
For a meeting place, the local Klan chapter first rented the Moose lodge
quarters on the second floor of today's Sentinel building, but in late January,
1924, it was evicted by a 27-13 vote of Moose members. Many of the lodge had
opposed the rental from the beginning, considering the Klan undesirable because
of its stand against forcign-born citizens: the lodge's national president was a
native of Wales.
The Moose was not the only local organization to oppose the Klans intimidating
activities and racist philosophies.
In May, when the United Brethren minister was announced as speaker for the
upcoming Memorial Day ceremonies, Civil War veterans of the G. A. R. post called
him a Klansman and said they would not attend the event if he spoke. An
acceptable substitute, the Grace Methodist pastor, quickly was arranged.
In November, the Klan asked permission to use the high school gymnasium for a
rally that would feature visiting Klan notables. The school board refused to
grant it. The gym was for school purposes only, trustees said, and anyway it was
owned by taxpayers who in the main were opposed to the Klan.
After being turned out by the Moose, the Klan secured a meeting place in May of
1924 by buying one. It was the once-palatial two story Victorian brick residence
of the late Dr. A. H. Robbins, purchased from his widow for $5,000. Local wags
began calling it "Night Shirt Hall" from the long white robes the
masked Kiansmen affected for its parades.
The Robbins house was located across from the Grace Methodist Church at Seventh
and Jefferson Streets and the site now is a church parking lot. It was from that
building that my childhood eyes saw the hooded Klansmen emerge, probably during
the Klan's last days of 1928 or 1929.
The Robbins house assumed a sinister aura until the order disbanded near the end
of the decade and, becoming vacant, fell into local lore. It remained broodingly
dark and mysterious thereafter and for many years school children habitually ran
or walked a bit faster when passing it at night. In 1944 it was converted to use
for awhile as the School Door Canteen, an RHS recreation center. Klan
paraphernalia found in the house at that time disappeared, but nobody today
recalls in what direction.
Those Rochesier residents with whom I've spoken and who in 1924 were children,
teenagers or young adults have only sketchy memories of the Klan. One recalls
watching a March as a -child from atop her father's shoulders at Main and 11th
Streets and seeing a hooded Klansman unexpectedly wink at her when he passed.
Another remembers a cross that was burned on a hill South of the Citizens
Cemetery, still another spoke of watching a night Main Street parade when -ome
of the disguised Klansmen yelled greet!ngs at her and her family.
In Kewanna an active Klan group put on regular cross burnings, parades and even
staged one shocking incident, all of which were documented more than 20 years
ago by remembrances of people who were present. That tale's next.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 30, 1999]
KEWANNA'S KU KLUX KLAN DAYS RECALLED BY WITNESSES
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
The difficulty encountered in recreating the days of the Ku Klux Klan's
existence in Fulton County during the 1920s is that all the adults who witnessed
or took part in those events are gone.
That obstacle doesn't hamper an examination of Kewanna's KKK history, however,
because in 1975 Wade Bussert became interested in the subject as a Kewanna High
School Senior. He interviewed nine local people for their memories of the Klan
days, two of them being former Klan members, and then produced a paper for his
KHS English class for which teacher Doris Hill gave him an A.
Wade's family, the Barnetts, helped settle Kewanna in 1837. I first read his
Klan report in "Fulton County Folks, Volume II," published by Fulton
County Historical Society in 1981. Recently he graciously shared with me some of
his 24-year-old research that gives a more personal look at this distant social
phenomenon.
Kewanna's Klansmcn were part of the larger Fulton County chapter and
participated in some of its activities but they also pursued their own agenda at
home, where Catholics were a major object of their displeasure.
The reason for this intollerance cannot adequately be understood three quarters
of a century later, for by the 1920s the Catholics had been a respected part of
Southwestern Fulton County society for many years. St. Ann's Catholic Church was
founded in 1860 north of Grass Creek and moved to Kewanna in 1919 in a new
church building it still occupies today. That was just four years before the
Klan's formation in Fulton County, so some of these Klansmen still may have
resented the presence of these new churchgoers in town.
The Klan was a frequent performer on the Kewanna scene from 1923 until 1925,
when Grand Dragon D. C. Stephenson was carted off to state prison as a convicted
murderer and the order lost all semblance of regpectability. Only once in that
time, however, did Kewanna's Klan do anything to shock its fellow townsmen.
One evening while Father Michael Shea, the priest at St. Ann's, was addressing
Kewanna High School's baccalaureate ceremony, Klansmen crept up behind the
school, set off a stick of dynamite, and then burned a cross to vent their
objection to the priest's appearance. To his everlasting credit, it was said,
Father Shea continued his remarks without interruption, refusing to acknowledge
this act of bigotry.
The Klan met regularly at The Grove, a stand of trees at the corner of East and
Park Streets on the south edge of town. During his research Bussert possessed a
copy of the Klan's secret membership list that he showed to those he
interviewed. It contained 577 names, only six less than were on the similar list
that surfaced in Rochester about this time. Men on the list were not all from
Kewanna, then a town of perhaps 700, but also fromRochester, other county towns
and Pulaski and Cass counties, according to a Klansman who examined It for
Bussert.
Kewanna Kiansmen frequently paraded on Main Street and burned crosses at the
Pennsylvania Railroad depot on,the east edge of town. Except for the dynamite
explosion no violent acts were remembered by any of Bussert's informants. One of
the latter was Herb Washburn and he had vivid memories of those days because his
father, Dr. John Washburn, the town's family physician with an office on Main
Street, was a vehement opponent of the Klan.
Dr. Washburn somehow got possession of the Klan membership list, had it printed
and distributed to eliminate the secrecy so zealously guarded by all Klan
organizations. He once put a sign in his office Window taunting Klansmen:
"When the roll is called up yonder will my name be on it?" The next
day another sign was pasted an the window from the Klan. It read: "We'll be
there; 100 percent-strong." Herb said his father was threatened with
violence on a few occasions. "It bothered him not at all," recalled
the son, and none came.
Washburn remembered that there were many Klan threats against opponents, but he
could recall no action as a result. The Klan generated a lot of ill feeling
among citizens on both sides. he admitted, and he particularly resented its call
for removing Catholic teachers from the schools. "That was silly. We had
lots of such teachers and they were good ones."
Otherwise, Herb had a rather lighthearted attitude about the Klan. One of its
members was a friend who told Herb that on the night of.a parade that he
would,drop his torch when he passed so Herb would know him. It happened just
that way, causing Herb to shout out: "Well, if I had a face like yours I'd
wear a mask all the time."
Margaret Brennan, a Catholic interviewed by Bussert, confirmed the incident
involving Father Shea and recalled that church members in town "were uneasy
about the Klan's attitudes toward them but never were afraid of being attacked
or killed or anything like that." Her, fafher John, -she said, spent time
traveling the countryside advising farmers "not to listen to such trash as
the Klan was telling."
Certainly Dr. Washburn and John Brennan were not alone among the Fulton County
citizens who courageously opposed the Klan's existence. Its most implacable foe,
however, was the editor of Rochester's Daily News, Harold Van Trump. Next week,
I'll examine his relentless assault against Klan existence to conclude our
venture into this shameful, suppressed period of local history.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, December 7, 1999]
HAROLD VAN TRUMP, RELENTLESS FOE OF THE KU KLUX KLAN
Considered Comment
Jack K. Overmyer
When the Ku Klux Klan rose up in ulton County In the early 1920s, the aders of
Rochester society reacted to it in rious ways. Some became active memers-,
others joined but kept their distance, Some refused to join yet tolerated its
existence; others opposed it and kept a susptcious eye on its progress. ,
Among them was Harold Van Trump, known as Herd, a newspaperman who quickly
anointed himself as the Klan's worst enemy and became its constant gadfly. He
instantly recognized the Klan for what it was, an abomination, and he fought its
progress in the columns of his newspaper with relentless vigor and journalistic
cunning.
The Van Trumps were an old-line Rochester family. Herd and his brother Pete had
been in the publishing and printing business here since their youths. By the
time the Klan appeared, Herd was editor of one of the city's two newspapers. The
Daily News, a Republican organ that then occupied the same Eighth Street
building as does The Sentinel today.
Through his newspaper, Herd pounced upon the Klan as soon as it began to spread
through Indiana. He denounced its evil premises, warned that it was coming to
Fulton County and published the first accounts of its local organizing efforts.
In regular editorials, Van Trump revealed that the Klan was nothing more than an
elaborate scheme to enrich its leaders in Georgia and Indianapolis, condemned
its opposition to Catholics and Jews, many of whom have dwelt long and honorably
among us, and scoffed as absurd and unconstitutional its plans to supply
citizens with better law enforcement than that being provided by legally elected
officers.
Thus attacked, the Klan struck back. At the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve
of' 1923, a band of 41 robed and hooded Clansmen marched from the Courthouse
square onto Eighth Street. They formed a circle around an 18-foot cross in front
of the Daily News building, set the cross afire, sang "America," and
offered a loud prayer that the editor would see the error of his ways.
It bothered Herd not at all. He published a story about it at the top of page
one, noting that "few Rochester Kluxers took part. . . .most came from the
western (Kewanna) part of the coun-ty."
As the May 1924 primary elections approached, Van Trump advised his readers that
the Klan was seeking to control both Republican and Democratic parties in the
county. Men never before active in politics were filing for precinct
committeemen and as state convention delegates, he announced.
Suddenly, a means to oppose this insidious plan fell into his hands: a copy of
the Klan's secret local membership list.
It seems that an active member of the Klan, a man named Hiatt who recently had
moved to Rochester, needed money. He offered the list of 583 members for sale at
$1 per name. Herd raised the cash, bought the list and granted Hiatt his request
for a three-hour head start out of town before the sale was made public. Hiatt,
it was said, already had his household goods packed when he got the money. With
this weapon at hand, Editor Van Trump resumed his battle against the Klan in
earnest. He published the primary election ballot and placed a star beside every
candidate he now knew was NOT a Klan member. An unstarred candidate who wished
to gain a star beside his name in subsequent publications had only to make a
public disavowal of the Klan to the editor. A few did just that and were granted
the distinctive emblem
At this time also, a group calling' itself the Citizens' Horse Thief Detective
Association suddenly appeared. Its officers requested that county commisstoners
deputize 70 of its members, granting them police powers and the right to carry
guns. Van Trump expressed his horror at the thought pf officially arming these
men as a kind of vigilante force. He declared almost all them were Klansmen and
published their names. Commissioners never responded to the request.
In the May primaries the Klan scored impressive victories throughout Indiana,
but not in Fulton County. All Klan candidates for state delegates but one were
defeated by decisive votes here; In every contest in which a Klan candidate
sought to be a precinct committeeman, the anti-Klan candidate won.
For his strident opposition to - their attempt at a political takeover, Klansmen
paid Van Trump a second nocturnal visit. Knights of the Invisible Empire
appeared at 9 o'clock the night after election and burned another fiery cross,
this time in a vacant lot across from his. residence at Pontiac and 13th
streets, vanishing quickly afterward. Herd published an account of this event
too, under the heading "Editor Signally Honored." Obviously, he was
enjoying the attention.
Before the general election of November, 1924, Van Trump once more repeatedly
published a copy of the ballot with antiKlan candidates starred. And, once
again, Fulton County voters showed they were not swayed by KKK propaganda. Klan
candidates for treasurer, sheriff and surveyor all lost. In the race for
6oroner, where both hopefuls were identified with the Klan, 553 voters refused
to vote for either man.
Even though the Klan elected its candidate, Ed Jackson, as governor of Indiana,
Jackson could not carry Fulton County, losing here by 63 votes. The Klan and its
racist philosophy had been declared persona non grata at the local polls.
Afterward, Van Trump wrote that he was sorry he did not support the entire
Republican ticket but he believed "the constitutional rights of the people
were more important than party solidarity." He congratulated the people of
Fulton County "on the intelligence and honesty which directed their
votes.æ
Congratulation4 also were due Told Van Trump, along with some admiration. His
was the only newspaper voice raised publicly against the Klan's threat to Fulton
County life and to its government. The Sentinel in general had been content to
cover Klan activities only as ongoing news events. While Herd's editorial voice
sometimes reached fever pitch, it never lost its wisdom, persistence nor
courage. The county's people were well served by his words and obviously agreed
with their fact and logic.
The 1924 election was Herd's valedictory to Rochester. On December 1, 1924, The
Daily News merged with The Sentinel to form The News-Sentinel. Not being a part
of the onsolidation he moved on to newspapers in Marion, Wabash, LaPorte and
Florida before returning to Rochester, where he died in 1932 at age 56.
When D. C. Stephenson, Grand Dragon of the Indiana Klan, entered prison in 1925
as a convicted murderer and when afterward some of the officials. he had elected
were convicted of bribery and corruption, the Indiana Klan he had created was
disgraced, and fell into gradual decline. It existed awhile as a novelty but its
reach for acceptance and political power was ended.
By, the close of the 1920s this second incarnation of the Ku Klux Klan had
disappeared almost everywhere in Indiana, remaining only as a bad memory most
everyone would pr6fer to forget.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, December 14, 1999]
LODGES - ROCHESTER LIONS CLUB [Rochester, Indiana]
MAY ORGANIZE CLUB
Byron B. Blalock, of Indianaolis, state organizer for the Lion's International,
held a meeting last evening in the Petite Room of the Berghoff Cafe with a group
of Rochester business men who ar interested in the organization of a Lion's Club
in Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 21, 1943]
LIONS CLUB ORGANIZED - 30 CHARTER MEMBERS
A Lions Club was organized in this city Wednesday evening in a special meeting
held at the Berghoff Cafe. Thirty charter members were signed at this initial
organization meeting, it was stated.
Byron B. Blacock, representative of the Lions International of Chicago, presided
and introduced several out-of-town guests. Deputy District Governor, C. W.
Veach, of South Bend, addressed the gathering and told of the many activities
and opportunities which await the new Lions club in Rochester. President Heck,
of South Bend, also made a brief and interesting talk.
Rochester becomes the 162nd club in Indiana and the 4338th in the Intrnational
association.
The next meeting of the newly-formed club will be Wednesday, February 10th, at
which time the charter membership will be closed and others signed after that
date will be new members.
List of Officers
The following officers, committee chairmen and charter members were ratified at
the meeting last night.
President - Harry Cooper
First Vice President - D. A. Deeds
Second Vice President - Charles T. Jones, Jr.
Third Vice President - Claude Johnson
Secretary - George P. Buchanan
Treasurer - James G. Newcomb
Lion Tamer - Carl Harvey
Tail Twister - John R. Davis
Directors - A. R. Fansler, Charles M. Sheridan, Dale Zimmerman and Louis Ninios
Committee Chairmen
Charter Night - J. R. Van Fassen
Membership - Hal J. Halstead
Finance - Earl Burgett
Constitution and By-Laws - William H. Deniston
Charter Members
Harry Allison, Wayne Atkinson, John J. Braman, George P. Buchanan, Earl Burgett,
Estel S. Carter, Lynn Chamberlain, E. W. Clay, Harry Cooper, Milo K. Coplen, Ben
Daulton, John R. Davis, D. A. Deeds, William H. Deniston, A. R. Fansler, H. J.
Halstead, Carl Harvey, Bud Johnson, Claude Johnson, Charles T. Tones, Jr., Floyd
Lebo, Charles D. Lockridge, Frank R. McCarter, James W. Newcomb, Lois Ninios,
Wayne Outcelt, Father Scholl, Charles M. Sheridan, J. R. Van Fassen, and Dale
Zimmerman.
Any additional men of the community wishing to become charter members prior to
the next meeting are requested to contact the membership chairman, Hal J.
Halstead, or the president, Harry Cooper.
Earl Burgett and J. R. Van Fassen are automatically charter members by reason of
previous Lions memberships.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, January 28, 1943]
LODGES - ROCHESTER LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Academy of Music
__________
STATE JUBILEE OF MOOSE ORDER
H. Guinup, district organizer for the Loyal Order of Moose, who is now in this
city arranging to install a local chapter of the Moose order, has received word
from the Moose headquarters in Indianapolis advising him that Rochester has been
selected as the place for the state jubilee of Moose, which will be held on
Labor Day, Sept. 2.
The announcement comes as a surprise to Rochester people as no effort was made
to secure the gathering, which will bring a great number of visitors to this
city for the day, but the visitors will find Rochester equal to the occasion.
The Loyal Order of Moose has leaped into favor with the people, and since its
organization at Anderson, Ind., only a few short years ago, has taken front rank
among the fraternal organizations of the world. The membership in the state of
Indiana is very heavy and a great gathering may be expected in this city on
Labor day.
Mr. Guinup states that further information as to plans and program for the event
will be received within a few days and that his letter today only brought the
news that this city had been selected as the place of the meeting.
Applications for membership in the local camp are being received daily and it is
expected that a camp of 80 members will be installed in this city next week. The
order pays very liberal benefits, and for that reason is attracting a large
membership in this city, where it would appear that the fraternal field was
already pretty well covered. Those who have already affiliated with the local
organization are anxious to secure a very large camp here to the end that a club
house be secured and a permanent home be maintained.
Messrs Mahoney and Maholm of Indianapolis, who have charge of the organization
work, expect to be in Rochester next week to assist in the organization of the
local order and to arrange for the state jubilee on Labor day.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 5, 1912]
[Adv] Moose Lodge Instituted TONIGHT at Eagles Hall. All applicant s are
requested to be present at not later than 8 o'clock P.M. Any prospective
applicant can get in with the large class tonight by appearing at Eagle's Lodge
room at time stated.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, August 30, 1912]
LOCAL MOOSE LODGE BUYS LAKE PROPERTY
Transactions were completed today by the local Moose lodgte for the purchase of
the Manitou Lodge, on north shore of Lake Manitou, from Mrs. Edna Foy, for use
as their new lodge home.
Tom Marshall, Moose governor, said that remodeling and decoration of the new
home will be started within the next few days. The terrace garden is to be
closed in and the entire building will be modernized throughout.
The permanent Moose home, when completed, will afford the local organization of
a beautiful permanent headquarters in which to carry on their social and
business activities.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, October 25, 1941]
LODGES - ROCHESTER MASONIC LODGE [Rochester, Indiana]
The Masonic fraternity of this county have fitted up, at considerable expense,
the third story of the Mammoth building, as a lodge room. The room, though not
of mammoth proportions, will for taste and neatness, bear comparison with any
similar lodge in the State.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, June 9, 1860]
It was a chance meeting of two Ohio-born men that eventually led to the early
formation of Rochester Lodge No. 79.
In the early months of 1846 two strangers met in a stagecoach enroute from South
Bend to the town of Rochester and points south. One of those men was Rev.
Cornelius Moore, a resident of Cincinnati, Ohio, and the editor of a magazine
called The Masonic Review. He was a member of a Masonic Lodge.
The other man was a 30-year-old resident of Rochester where he had a wagon and
cabinet workshop. His name was Francis K. Kendrick. He was not a Mason but he
was destined to not only become one, but also in future years to be revered by
local Masons as the "father" of his Lodge and have his picture and
memorial plaque on its wall as they appear at the present day.
When Kendrick left the stagecoach, he carried with him a copy of Moore's
magazine to which he later subscribed. In the months following he became more
and more impressed with the contents of the fraternal periodical and the memory
of the persuasive talents of his erstwhile fellow-passenger and he determined to
become a Mason.
He knew very little of the procedure of petitioning for membership in a lodge
but he correctly preseumed that some kind of formal application was necessary.
Having no blank form, he wrote a simple letter to the nearest lodge, which was
Tipton Lodge No. 33 in Logansport, stating his wish to become a member. With his
letter he sent other ones signed by county officials attesting to his character
and reputation.
Although his letter and recommendations were not accompanied by prescribed
forms, the Logansport Lodge graciously accepted them and after a favorable
report by an investigating committee Kendrick was notified to appear before the
Logansport Lodge to receive his degrees.
Traveling the 24 miles to Logansport, probably by horseback or perhaps by the
same stagecoach in which he had met Rev. Moore, Kendrick received his Masonic
degrees - the First on Aug. 27; the Second on Sept 24 and his Third and final
degree on Oct. 22 in the year 1847, all this happening within approximately one
year after his eventful meeting with his sole companion and passenger on the
stagecoach.
During the next year other Fulton County men journeyed to Logansport to join
Tipton Lodge No. 33. Lodge meetings are almost always at night and because the
long journey to Logansport was not only tiresome but often dangerous, a lodge in
Rochester was desirable. Consequently eight of the men who followed Kendrick's
example and had joined the Tipton Lodge later in 1847 and in 1848 combined their
efforts and petitioned the Grand Lodge at Indianapolis for a dispensation to be
called by the county name, Fulton Harmony Lodge. The signers of the petition
were John J. Shryock, Francis K. Kendrick, John H. Stailey, Thomas F. Blackburn,
William K. Logan, Daniel W. Jones, Gardner Osgood, and Alfred T. Welton.
In response to his petition the Grand Lodge, on May 23, 1848, granted a
dispensation and appointed the following men as officers to serve while the new
lodge was in probationary status: John J. Shryock, Worshipful Master; Francis K.
Kendrick Senior Warden; and John H. Stailey as Junior Warden.
Even though the new lodge was not yet chartered it had to have a place to meet.
It had no hall of its own, nor was it to have one for the next 21 years. But a
place to meet became available although it proved to be temporary. It was in the
rear of the second floor of a building occupied by Shryock & Bozarth Dry
Goods Store at the southwest corner of Main and Seventh steets. It was there
that the new Lodge had its first ritual session. During the next three months
degrees were conferred on Lot N. Bozarth, Eden E. Rhodes, Morris D. McGrath, and
James H. McQuern.
After only a few months the rooms were no longer available and the Lodge was
forced to vacate. Although it seems extraordinary today, the Lodge occasionally
held meeting in the homes of some of the members - probably in childless homes
and when the wife was attending a Ladies' Aid Society meeting at the neighbors.
The Masons' homeless situation was becoming serious, but when it seemed hopeless
an unusual source provided a rescue. It was another Fraternal Order - the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which had just completed a new Hall on the
southwest corner of 7th & Jefferson streets where the Methodist Church now
stands. With the consent of the Grand Ruling Bodies of both Orders, an
arrangement was made whereby both Lodges could use the same quarters by
alternating their meeting dates and providing separate storage space for each
Lodge's secret regalia and equipment. This generous offer was deeply appreciated
by the Masons and it contributed to harmonious relations between the two Orders
which continues to the present time.
The Lodge was still operating under dispensation and the members now wanted a
charter. Here again Brother Kendrick took action by going to the Grand Lodge
where he succeeded in obtaining the following resolution:
"RESOLVED: That a Charter be granted to the petitioners to establish a
lodge to be called Fulton Lodge No. 79." On June 1, 1849, a Charter was
issued.
Thus Fulton Harmony Lodge U.D. was removed from probation, was given a new name,
Fulton Lodge No. 79 F & A M (named for Fulton County) and was now a duly
constituted and Chartered Lodge. In its first meeting under its new name in the
Odd Fellows Hall on Aug. 27 the first officers were installed as follows: John
J. Shryock, Worshipful Master; Francis K. Kendrick, Senior Warden; John H.
Stailey, Junior Warden; Daniel W. Jones, Treasurer; Lot N. Bozarth, Secretary;
Morris D. McGrath, Senior Deacon; William L. Logan, Junior Deacon; James H.
McQuern, Tyler.
Now that the new Lodge was chartered several furnishings and lodge equipment
were necessary. Here again Kendrick's versatile skill was available. Being a
cabinet maker he used his shop to make at no cost to the Lodge the magnificent
columns and globes which even at the present day have their place in the Hall.
Today its officers are elected for one year, but at the time it was chartered
they were elected every six months. Dues at that time were $1 a year payable
semi-annually, and the initiation fee was $10. Now the initiation fee is $100
and annual dues are $16 plus a per member Masonic Home Assessment of $9.
After occupying the Odd Fellows Hall for 11 years the Lodge was now to have its
third meeting place. On Dec. 27, 1860, a contract was signed with David Lyon
whereby the Lodge leased the upper story of a new building named by its owner
"The Mammoth Building" for an annual reental of $35. This building was
located on the present site of Baxter's Drug Store. A former occupant of a
building on this site before the present occupant was, in the earlier part of
the 1900's, the Blue Drug Store, operated by Alex Ruh & Son. The Masons
occupied this meeting hall until 1870 wen they moved to a new building which
they used until Sept. 6, 1977.
To most laymen the word "temple" will probably connote a superb
edifice of architectural grandeur built at ground level and presenting an
imposing facade of Greek Corinthian or Roman Composite columns and enclosing an
interior atmosphere of awe and mystery. And indeed there are lodges in the
larger cities with wealthier and more numerous membership that have temples
which at least approach that description.
The Rochester Lodge, 20 years old in 1869, having been practically homeless
since its origin in 1849, may have had visions of such a building but it gladly
accepted something much less, and while it was not at ground level it was a
welcome home which it would occupy continuously for more than a century.
In 1869 Francis K. Kendrick with David Lyon in a partnership real estate
business planned a two-story building of red brick which would be built at the
northwest corner of Main and Eighth streets. An arrangement was made whereby
Lyon and Kendrick would add a third floor to the original plans at the expense
of the Lodge which would be used as its meeting hall under a 99-year lease. The
total cost to the Masons for the construction was approximately $4,100.
Now the Lodge faced a problem - it had no funds. But under the direction of A.
J. Holmes a corporation called The Masonic Hall Joint Stock Building Corporation
was formed which issued 100 shares of common stock to be subscribed and
purchased by Lodge members. However, this venture failed to raise enough funds
to pay the cost of the third floor so the Lyon & Kendrick firm advanced the
Lodge $1,500.
When the building neared completion the firm announced that it would be called
"The Maxonic Hall Block." The following corrected description of the
building with its original dimensions appears in Fulton County Historical Atlas
published by A. L. Kingman, 1883:
The Hall occupied by the Masonic Fraternity in Rochester embraces the third
story of the building known as the Masonic Hall Block at the northwest corner of
Main and Center (now Eighth) streets. It was erected in 1869 and finished in
1870. In dimensions the hall is 80 by 42 feet, fronting 42 feet on Main Street
and extending back 80 feet west on Center Street. The hall proper fronts east on
Main Street with ante rooms and preparation rooms in the rear or west end, all
neatly and substantially furnished. The fund originally created for the
construction of the Hall was in the nature of a stock subscription which have
been nearly all purchased and is now (1883) owned (leased) by Rochester Lodge
No. 79. The cost of the third floor of the building was about $4,000 in addition
to the expense of the furnishing and outfitting. Mr. William Ritters and others
were the contractors and did therir work well. When the hall had been so far
completed as to be used for meeting purposes, John N. Davis was the first to
receive the Master's Degree in Fulton Lodge No. 79 in the winter of 1869-70.
The foregoing paragraph gives the dimensions of the Masonic Building as it was
on completion in January 1870. Some time after 1883 (the date of Kingman's
Atlas) the building was enlarged by a two-story addition 35 feet long and 20
feet wide to the west end of the south half of the original building. No record
is available as to the use of this addition or why it was built. One of the
oldest lodge members, Bert Van Dien, stated that at one time the lower floor was
used by Sol Allman, a men's clothing merchant who occupied the room joining the
new addition on the east as a temporary storage of raw hides he purchased from
butchers, farmers and trappers. But according to Van Dien's information this
venture, although profitable, was short lived owing to the awful stench of the
hides which caused so many comlaints that the dealer was vorced to discontinue.
The second story of the new addition eventuallh became a part of the Masonic
Blub.
The outward appearance of Lyon & Kendrick's new Masonic Hall Building
because of its size and height presented a noticeable addition to the town's
meager array of Main Street buildings. While it outwardly appeared to be a very
ordinary red brick building, the interior of the third floor Lodge room
displayed a lavish contrast, although in 1914 the exterior was handsomely
refinished as described in later pages.
Not only were walls of the Hall beautifully decorated in symbolic color but it
is the ceiling which presents an appearance so striking and extraordinary that
it makes the room unusual and outstanding among lodge halls in small cities.
During the 10 years the lodge occupied the Mammoth Building it is indicated that
the illumination was lamplight. Due bills found in old records show purchase
items of coal-oil, lamp chimneys and even candles. Now, the ceiling and its
lights is an interior decorator's dream and probably was an electrician's
nightmare. A large center beam divides the long 58-foot ceiling into identical
halves, each covered with 144 light-gray art-metal squares of cameo and intaglio
designs, each square connected to the adjoining one by impressed circles at all
corners.
The perimeter molding of each half of the ceiling contains a continuous line of
106 alternating white and blue 25-watt light bulbs spaced 10 inches apart. From
the center of each half of the ceiling there is a large translucent white bowl
enclosing a 200-watt light and suspended from the ceiling by four short chains.
This fixture is surrounded by a five-foot circle of 16 blue bulbs, this circle
being bounded by an 8-foot square of 28 white lights. Thus in each half of the
ceiling are 151 lights wired on five circuits making in all 302 lights in the
entire ceiling.
It is possible that the art-metal ceiling and resplendent illumination were not
installed at the time of the original interior finishing because the cost could
hardly have been covered in the comparatively small sum paid by the Masons in
building the third story. Also there is some indication that the lights were
installed later in the 1800's or early in the 1900's because of the type of
light bulb used which was the old "loop" filament kind which preceded
the modern mazda bulb. These loop filament bulbs were very durable, many of them
still furnishing light into the 1920's.
Present generations would find it hard to believe that the outside walls of the
Masonic Building are neither stone nor cement block. Before 1914 the building
appeared in its true color and surface - the red brick of which it was built.
What changed the complexion of the building from that of red brick to simulated
stone was a process whereby cement was spread thickly upon the brick walls and a
skeleton-like form pressed against it to mark the "joints." Then the
skilled workers used the corner of their trowels to shape the face of the
"block" into a rough ashlar appearance. The Lodge co-operated with the
owners in this project, paying $514.14 as its share of the cost August 1915.
The days following the Lodge's occupation of the new building were not as
pleasant as expected. The Lodge was still in debt to the owners. Money was
scarce and there was not enough income to pay operating expenses. Records reveal
that the Lodge was so poor that members' wives laundered the lodge aprons.
Firewood used to heat the Hall at that time had to be bought (at $1.50 a cord).
The wood and water was carried up the long flight of stairs to the third floor.
But membership had increased from 12 at the end of 1849 to 102 at the end of
1870. But trouble was to appear whereby the membership would be greatly reduced.
One year after the Lodge had occupied its new quarters, a number of members
withdrew and petitioned for another lodge to be formed. Surprisingly (because
the town was so small) the Grand Lodge permitted the dissatisfied members a
Charter for the new lodge to be named Rochester Lodge No. 436. Seven years later
this new lodge had acquired only 48 members so they sought reunion with Fulton
Lodge No. 79. Their request for reunion was approved by the Grand Lodge and
merger followed and the united lodge now taking name Rochester Lodge No. 79
which remains to the present time. This reunion occurred in 1878. Then 32 years
later the Masonic Lodge in Bloomingsburg (now Talma) No. 489 consolidated with
the Rochester Lodge. This brought 14 more members for a total of 83. In 1949
when the Rochester Lodge celebrated its 100th anniversary the membership had
increased to 300.
In 1892 the Masonic Joint Stock Building Corporation dissolved and no longer
existed. Since it was not a lodge but merely a corporate entity this action
removed one of the parties to the 1870 lease and it was automatically nullified.
This necessitated a new lease. The following is a brief account of the new lease
in the description written by Charles H. Essig in his excellent summation
published in the Rochester News-Sentinel June 1, 1949: "On Jan. 23, 1892, a
contract was entered into with Francis K. Kendrick, Sarah A. Lyon, Eliza E.
Smith, Milo R. Smith, Anna E. Reiter, Marion C. Reiter, Gertrude L. Terry, and
Frank H. Terry by which Rochester Lodge No. 79 leased the third story of the
present Masonic Hall Building. This lease runs for a period of 99 years for
which the Lodge paid the sum of $1,200. The above lessors agreed to keep the
roof of said building in a good state of repair at all times."
The cornerstone of the Masonic Building was opened Aug. 31, 1914, because
preparations were being made to resurface the outside of the building which
would cover the original brick and present the appearance of rough-faced stone
blocks.
There was some apprehension that the covering of cement applied in that process
might cover the cornerstone at the northeast corner of the building at the top
line of the first story and thereby postpone indefinitely the opening of the
stone which had been laid in 1869.
The New Temple
Sept. 6, 1977, will surely be recorded as one of the most memorable dates in the
history of Rochester Lodge No. 79, because on that date its first Stated Meeting
was held in the new Temple. Added to the historical prominence of that date was
the unique coincidence that it was exactly two years after ground was broken for
construction. Also there was a reminder of the passing of time, for this date
ended 107 years and 8 months of occupancy of the old Masonic Hall at Main and
Eighth streets.
A new Temple had been contemplated many years ago. Entries in the records of the
late 1920's reveal that the Masons of those days had a remarkable and
distantly-projected foresight and also a charitable interest in the lives of
future Masons. This is evidenced by their action in enacting a by-law providing
for the allocation of a portion of member's dues and initiation fees to a
"Building Fund to be created as a reserve for the future purchase or
erection of new Lodge quarters when deemed necessary." It is notable that
at the time this by-law was adopted there was two-thirds of the 99-year 1892
lease yet to run. But the fund raised by the by-law over a period of 50 years
became a decisive factor in constructing a new building.
In 1961 the subject of a new building was brought before the Lodge, but after a
long study a committee advised that such a venture would have small chance of
success, not only because of insufficient funds but also because there was no
building site available at that time.
Then in the early 1970's a site became possible when the Lodge trustees by a
successful bid at a delinquent tax sale obtained the property at Tenth and Main
streets [NW corner] which for many generations had been owned and occupied by
Charles Caffyn and his descendants.
The new Temple is a one story building of concrete blocks with an exterior
facing of light tan-colored brick. The lodge room is approximately the same
length as the one in the old hall but provides greater width for ritual
performance. The full area basement contains a large kitchen, dining capacity
for more than a hundred people, and also space for social games.
One of the outstanding events in the history of the Lodge occurred Oct. 27 1979,
when the new Masonic Temple at 10th and Main streets was dedicated by the Grand
Lodge of Indiana.
[Rochester Masonic Lodge, Fred C. McClurg, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
See the referenced story in Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, for further details.
__________
Fulton Lodge No. 79, A.F. and A.M., Regular Meetings Wednesday evening of, or
next preceding, the full moon in each month, meet in Odd Fellows's Hall. D. W.
Lyon, W.M., W. Osgood, Secy.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
Fulton Lodge No. 79, A.F. and A.M., Regular meetings Wednesday evenings of,
or next preceding, the full moon in each month. Meet in their Hall in Mammoth
building over A. K. Plank's Drug Store.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, January 30, 1862]
WADE JARRETT BUILDING LEASED BY MOOSE LODGE
At a meeting held this afternoon by the building committee of the local Manitou
chapter of the Moose lodge, it was decided to lease from Wade Jarrett his
building at 124 East Eighth street, now occpied by Haskett and Jones Insurance
Agency and the Fulton County Auto License Branch, for use as new lodge
clubrooms.
Tom Marshall, governor of the local lodge, stated that remodeling will begin on
the building as soon as possible. The rooms are to be redecorated, and will take
care of the rapidly-expanding Moose membership list, largest in the lodge's
history.
Members are still being enrolled in the lodge, Marshall said, and the acquiring
of new clubrooms is expected to greatly increase our present enrollment.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, October 14, 1941]
LODGES - ROCHESTER RED MEN [Rochester, Indiana]
MOOSE BUY RED MEN'S HALL
The order of Moose, which was organized in Rochester four years ago last August,
Tuesday purchased of the Red Men their hall on East 8th Street for $1,600. The
Red Men have no plans for the future. The Moose lodge has become one of the
largest organizations in Rochester, having 187 members.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 21, 1917]
RED MEN LODGE BEING REVIVED IN ROCHESTER
The Red Men's lodge, which in recent years had dwindled to the point of almost
being inactive, is now well started on its way of becoming a very active
organization according to George M. Mangas, of Indianapolis, state organizer who
has been here for some time. As the result of his work, many of the old timers
have re-installed themselves and many new ones are joining. It is hoped that
twenty-five "pale faces" will be in the class which will take the
first degree initiatory work at the lodge rooms Saturday night. A degree team
from South Bend will give the work while Arch M. Hobbs, Great Chief of Records,
of Indianapolis will give the address of the evening. The Red Men is the oldest
fraternity of purely American origin, its history being traced back to 1760.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, March 19, 1926]
LODGES - ROCHESTER SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR VETERANS [Rochester, Indiana]
Fulton county now has a complete organized post of Spanish American War
Veterans, the organization having been completed at a meeting of 16 veterans
held Thursday evening at the city hall.
The gathering was presided over by State Commander C. W. Yerbury of the United
Spanish American War Veterans, and the post was named the A. H. Skinner Post No.
2., in honor of the late veteran of the same name. The following officers, who
will be installed at a meeting to be held July 28, were elected: Comander, Dell
Smith; Senior Vice Commander, Frank Ross; Junior Vice Commander, Ira McKee;
Officer of the Day, Charles Piper; Officer of the Guard, Fred Jones; Trustees,
Harry Chamberlain, Benjamin Noftsger and Jacob Irwin; Adjutant, Jacob Irwin;
Quartermaster, Archie Brown; Patriotic Instructor, Frank McKee; Chaplain, Jacob
Irwin; Historian, Albert Day; Surgeon, Archie Brown; Sergeant Major, Harry
Chamberlain; Quartermaster Sergeant, Charles Schindler; Color Sergeant, George
Ice; Color Sergeant, John Mow and Chief Musician, Jacob Irwin.
[Rochester Sentinal, Friday, July 15, 1921]
LODGES - TALMA GLEANERS [Talma, Indiana]
TALMA
The Gleaner lodge at Talma is not asleep. They have now 106 members and still
more sending in applications.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 8, 1911]
LONG, H. C. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Rochester Bands
__________
BIOGRAPHY
Capt. H. C. Long. - The Long family name dates back in English and Irish history
several centuries, while the later generations belong more particularly to
America, still the old name is much respectred by the descent. Captain Long, or
"Cap," as he is called by his comrades, was born May 31, 1837, in
Boone County, Ind. His father, Elihu Long, was a shoe-maker by trade. H. C.,
after he had arrived at an age when he was capable of choosing a vocation,
followed the footsteps of his father. He attended the common school until he was
ten years of age, when he came with his parents to Rochester. He attended the
schools of the town for a time, but his education was nothing more than acquired
from common schools, and his mind seemed centered on his trade; still he was
moved by impulses not different from most young men, and at the age of nineteen
years his convictions on the matrimonial question were so strong that he chose
Adelaide Barnum, a resident of Rochester, but a native of New York, for his
wife. The result of this union was a daughter, Lewella, now engaged as a teacher
in the North Manchester Public schools, and a son, Horace, at present a railroad
employe in Iowa. While Mr. Long is a very quiet, unassuming man, yet a faithful
and efficient workman, there is something of his strong nature which can only be
shown by a true test. This test was applied while he was soldering during the
late rebellion, and it is but just that we should speak of him more particularly
in this connection, for while he was a brave soldier and a faithful servant of
his country in need, he drew to him in warmest feelings and friendship all of
his fellow-soldiers. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the Thirty-sixth Indiana
Infantry as a musician. Six months later, he was discharged by order of Gen.
Buell and immediately renlisted as a private in Company F, of Eighty-seventh
Indiana Regiment. At the formation of the company, he was chosen Orderly
Sergeant. From the beginning his true worth and merits were noted, and he soon
passed the successive promotions of Second and First Lieutenant, and in April,
1863, he was appointed Captain of Eighty-seventh and served in this place to the
close of the war, taking part in some of the most daring and dangerous campaigns
and battles of the rebellion. He have from him the following statement: "I
participated in the campaign from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga; was in the
memorable battle of Chickamauga. In the following spring, we took up the
campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta. During this campaign, I was in the battles
of Buzzard's Roost, Rocky Face, Burnt Hickory, Lost Mountain and Kenesaw, stood
face to face with the rebels in the eventful assault of Jeff C. Davis, on June
27, near Marietta; was at the siege of Atlanta; was in the battle of Jonesboro;
assisted in the capture of Atlanta soon after the battle of Jonesboro; I was
with Sherman on his famous march to the sea; I was at Atlanta's fall. After
these bloody struggles, I passed through the Carolina campaign on to Richmond.
From this place we were ordered to Washington City, and there I received my
discharge, June 10, 1875, and immediately returned home and resumed my
trade." It is not our purpose to indulge in useless praise, but when we
meet a man whose life has been so full of gallant service for his country's
honor and preservation, yet so unassuming, and attaching so little importance to
his many good qualities, we feel like picturing his true character to the reader
for self use. As a mark of his true worth and the high standing among his
comrades at the organization of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.), he was
chosen Commander of Post 95, and chosen a short time ago to the same position.
Elihu Long, the father of the subject of this sketch, was a native of Delaware,
and a direct descendant of English and Irish stock. His vocation all of his life
was that of shoe-maker. He has been known here as Father Long for many years; he
died in October, 1882. He came to Indiana in 1829, a few years after the State
was admitted to the Union. The mother was a native of Pennsylvania, and of
Scotch descent; died in June, 1851.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, pp. 23-24]
BIOGRAPHY
Capt. H. C. Long, one of Rochester's oldest and best known citizens, was born in
Boone county, Ind., May 31, 1837. His parents were Elihu and Susan (Martin)
Long. The father, of Irish and English lineage, was born in Delaware, 1797, and
died in Rochester, 1882. His mother was born of Scotch parentage, in
Pennsylvania, in 1799, and died in Rochester, 1851. These parents were married
in Highland county, Ohio, where their parents had settled in an early day. From
Ohio they moved to Indiana, in 1828, first settling near Indianapolis, but soon
afterward they removed to Boone county, thence to Clinton county, thence to
Pulaski county, and in 1847 they located in Rochester, where they lived till
death called them away. Unto them were born eight children. The father was a
shoemaker by trade and taught the subject of this brief mention the principles
of this trade, which the son followed for many years. The father and son became
associated as partners in the shoe business when our subject was twenty-one
years of age. In 1881 Capt. Long discontinued the business and for five or six
years thereafter was envgaged in the carriage and buggy business. For the last
several years he has been a notary public and pension attorney. In 1856 he and
Adelaide Barnum were united in marriage. Unto the union were born a son and
daughter, namely, Horace E. and Lewella. In September, 1861, Mr. Long enlisted
in the Thirty-sixth Indiana infantry. Six months later he was discharged by
special order from department commnder. In August, 1862, he re-enlisted as a
private in Company F, Eighty-seventh Indiana infantry. Upon the organization of
this company he was chosen first sergeant, and soon passed the successive
promotions of second and first lieutenant, and in April, 1863, was made captain
of his company, and as such served until the close of hostilities, and June 10,
1865, was discharged. Capt. Long has always been identified with the republican
party, and fraternally he has long been a member of the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, and the Grand Army of the Republic.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 100-101]
LONG, JOHN D. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
John D. Long was born in Ohio February 12, 1858, had a common school education
and when his parents removed to Indiana he accompanied them. He began working on
his own account at the age of twenty-one, at farming like his father. He is at
present superintendent of the Fulton county infirmary. He married Miss Helen M.
Coon; both are members of the Baptist church and are well-considered in the
community in which they live. They have had four children--of whom three are
living: Jacob Truman, Sylvan E. and Leo O. Jacob is a farmer, married Miss
Eloise Irwin and has two children, J. Truman Jr. and Marjorie. John D. Long is
the son of Jacob and Jane A. (Dunlap) Long and this couple were the parents of
ten children. Four only are living. The father was a farmer by vocation and a
self-made man. Like his son he was a Republican and a Baptist. He died in 1895
and his wife in 1871. They were early pioneers and came to Indiana when the land
had to be cleared before a home could be built. Wild turkeys and game abounded.
His was the first house built on that land.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, p. 232, Dayton Historical Publishing
Co., 1923]
LONG, LEO [Rochester, Indiana]
See Shelton, Ralph
__________
SOLD INTEREST
Leo Long has sold his half interst in the Sinclair Filling Station at the [SE]
corner of Main and Fourth streets to his partner Ralph Shelton, who will
continue to operate the station. Mr. Long has entered the life insurance
business and will work out of Rochester.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 5]
LONG & SON [Rochester, Indiana]
Boot and Shoe Store. Leather of all kinds. . . We are now prepared to make to
order, on short notice . . . good, neat and strong . . . Elihu Long & Son
Rochester, May 22, 1858.
--- Long & Son, Dealer in Boots and Shoes, Leather, Lasts, Pegs, Boot Trees,
&c. Shop on Main St. opposite public square, Rochester.
[Rochester Gazette, Thursday, December 9, 1858]
Boots and Shoes. Elihu Long & Son . . . Rochester, March 1, 1860.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
Boots and Shoes, Elihu Long & Son, Rochester.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
LONG & SHELTON [Rochester, Indiana]
LONG & SHELTON LEASE SINCLAIR GAS STATION
Leo Long and Ralph Shelton, both experienced service station men, have leased
the Sinclair Station at the [SE] corner of Main and Fourth street this city and
taken over active management of the same.
Mr. Long operated the Standard Oil station at the corner of Third and Main for a
period of nine years and Mr. Shelton likewise was manager of the Shell station
on North Main for several years. They will carry a complete line of Shell
products, Goodyear tires, Prestolite batteries as well as maintaining a washing
and general auto service. The announcement advertisement of this station appears
elsewhere in this issue of the News-Sentinel.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 18, 1935]
LONG ACRES FRUIT & POULTRY FARM [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - Headwuarters for B. P. Rocks of the noted Hawkins strain of good
layers. The place to get eggs for breeding fine birds. Eggs $1.00 per 15. LONG
ACRES FRUIT & POULTRY FARM, One-fourt mile west of the Fair Grounds. Address
Otto Caple, Box 293, Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 18, 1902]
LONG BEACH [Lake Manitou]
Located NE shore of Lake Manitou between North Shore and Bessmore Park.
LONG BEACH AMUSEMENT PARK [Lake Manitou]
LONG BEACH CAFETERIA TO OPEN NEXT SUNDAY
The cafeteria at the Long Beach Amusement Park will open its doors to the public
on next Sunday morning when the long tables will be filled with food for the
selection of the hungry resorters and town people. The cafeteria is built along
the latest plans for this type of restaurants and a large corps of assistants
will be on hand to see that everything is taken care of properly. Customers will
pass with their trays along the steam tables and select what food they want. A
large number of tables will prevent crowded conditions. The cafeteria of course
is housed in a new building and has all new equipment, new silverware, plates
and linens. It will be open and food will be served every day and also at night.
It is under the management of the New York Candy Kitchen.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 18, 1921]
REIGN OF TERROR AT LONG BEACH ENDANGERS LIVES
Reign of terror such as has not been seen in this vicinity in many days took
place at Long Beach Amusement Park Thursday afternoon when Louie Ninios,
proprietor of the cafeteria, it is said, ran amuck and endangered the lives of
everyone in sight. Ninios in a rage as the result of an argument with owner, C.
H. Shank, seized an Army 48 pistol and shot at everybody within his sight but
fortunately no one was hurt. His companion, Gus Ninios attempted to assault some
of the employees with a butcher knife but was otherwise unarmed. The only injury
resulting was that received by Gus when he was struck down by Charles Saylor,
electrician.
According to C. H. Shanks, who luckily escaped serious injury the affair started
when he became involved in an argument over the payment of a small bill which
Ninios claimed was owed him by the park owner. During the talk, said Mr. Shank,
the Greek made a remark about the former's wife and immediately Shank hit him.
This occurred in front of the cafeteria.
Meanwhile, Gus Ninios, who just recently arrived in this country and was running
the peanut stand, saw that his relative was in distress, grabbed a butcher knife
and started for the melee. Charles Saylor, electrician, saw him coming and laid
him out with a blow just below the eye.
Louis then ran into the cafeteria, and almost immediately appeared with his
automatic and aiming at Shank fired. The latter quickly dodged around the corner
of the dance pavilion just as the Greek fired two more times and thereby saved
himself. Ninios then turned his gun on Saylor and Dick Edwards who both luckily
got out of his aim. After emptying the gun Ninios loaded it again and at one
time during his rampage shot directly into the crowd of people on the shore but
the bullet touched no one.
By this time Louie had complete charge of the grounds. But a telephone call had
summoned Sheriff Sam Arter and his deputy John Stanley, who arrived on the
grounds shortly afterwards. On seeing them approach Louie again grabbed his gun
but was halted by Saylor who had drawn a bead on him with a shot gun from the
pavilion. The Greek raised his hands and gave up.
Both he and Gus were disarmed and brought to town closely followed by the Long
Beach owner and employees. Mr. Shank immediately went to the office of
Prosecutor Brown, where he filed charges against the Greeks of assault with
intent to kill. The two relatives engaged counsel and made preparations for
legal action. Conviction on this charge carries a penitentiary sentence.
The above information was given by Mr. Shank himself, who also added that in his
opinion, Louie was not right mentally as he acted peculiarly at various times
before and had threatened to clean out the park.
The other side of the story is to the effect that Shanks and Ninios had an
altercation over $300 owed to Ninios by Shank. Following their argument over
this matter, Shank left the Cafeteria, but returned a few moments later and
called Ninios outside and after cursing him, struck him. Then, according to
Ninios, he went inside and got his gun, when the park employes swarmed about and
fired three shots into the air, merely to keep the crowd away and to scare them
out of mobbing him. Ninios also denied that he shot directly at anybody or into
the crowd and said that when the sheriff appeared he immediately put up his gun.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, July 7, 1921]
NINIOS RELATES HIS VERSION OF ESCAPADE
Stories of the trouble Thursday afternoon at Long Beach are widely variant, but
out of the maze of conflicting statements comes the story as told by Louie
Ninios, in which he says that he was called out of his place of business by
Charles H. Shank, manager of the park, and without any warning whatever,
attacked.
Ninios then goes on to state that as a matter of self protection, he held Shank
with one hand and struck hime with the other, in the meantime the park employes
flocking to the scene and jumping on Ninios.
The next step in the procedure, says Louis, was when Dick Edwards struck at him
with a hammer. At this juncture, Gus Ninios, who could not understand what was
being said, but only realized that his relative was being attacked, rushed in
and in attempting to catch Edwards' hand with the hammer in it, caught full on
the cheek the blow that was intended for Louie.
Then Louie broke from his assailants and ran into the cafeteria and procured his
revolver, according to his own tale, and fired three shots into the air to
frighten away the crowd, which he did.
In the meantime the sheriff was summoned, but just as Arter and Stanley arrived
on the scene Saylor, the electrician, appeared with a shot gun and Ninios again
flourished his revolver, but on order of the officers, both men put up their
weapons and quiet was restored.
Now, it is understood an effort is being made to settle the affair as quietly as
possible, and while there is talk of a similar charge being placed against
Edwards, it is so said that all concerned may appear in court and pay a fine for
assault and battery or disturbing the peace, while the more serious charges may
be allowed to go by the board.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, July 8, 1921]
LONG BEACH HOTEL CORPORATION FORMED
The Long Beach Hotel Amusement Company has been incorporated in Indianapolis,
according to word received here Monday, for $100,000. Charles H. Shank and
Martha Shank are the principals in the corporation, which has been organized for
the purpose of erecting a hotel to cost $60,000 at the present site of the Long
Beach Amusement Park on the North Shore of Lake Manitou. Plans for the hotel
have already been completed and the printers are now busy getting out a
prospectus describing the new venture.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, November 7, 1921]
LOCAL DIRECTORS FOR LONG BEACH COMPANY
The Long Beach Amusement and Hotel Company has announced that five local men
will be voted into their organization as directors at an early date. Val
Zimmerman, George V. Dawson and F. F. Moore have already stated their
willingness to serve and it is understood that Jim Downs and O. M. Hendrickson
will be the other two. The present directors are Charles Shanks, Mrs. Charles
Shanks and A. Mitchell.
When the new directors are elected, Mrs. Shanks and Mr. Mitchell will resign.
"With these well known business men connected with the promotion and the
building of the new hotel it will give the people of the comunity the
understanding that this hotel is going to be built right," said Mr. Shanks.
"We intend to start breaking ground for the hotel early in March."
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, February 15, 1922]
MAKES PARACHUTE DROP FROM UNUSUAL HEIGHT
Making a balloon ascension and parachut drop such as has not been seen here for
years, J. M. Stewart, of South Bend, thrilled local sky gazers Tuesday evening
when he went up to a height of 3,500 feet before he cut loose. The ascension was
the leading feature of the opening day at Long Beach Amusement Park.
Stewart arose rapidly, drifting to the north. When up quite a distance he cut
loose several small balloons with Kewpie dolls attached parachuted with a large
doll underneath. By this time the bag was at the height stated above which is
unusual for hot air balloon ascensions. He was about three miles north of Long
Beach when he cut loose and made a perfect landing. The balloon in coming down
snagged on a tree, ripping a large hole in the canvass which prohibited the
night flight.
Stewart will make his next ascension next Sunday night when he will give a
fireworks display from the clouds, a feat very seldom attempted.
A large crowd was present at the opening of the Beach Tuesday and found plenty
of ways to enjoy themselves during the day. The bathing beach was patronized
largely as was the skating rink and merry go round. From now on the park will be
open afternoons and evenings.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 31, 1922]
CLEVER ASCENSION FROM LONG BEACH
J. M. STEWART, balloonist, made one of the most spectacular ascensions ever seen
in this community Sunday evening, when he rode his balloon up from the Long
Beach Amusement park at about 9:30 o'clock. The big bag was filled and Stewart
cut loose riding almost starlight up to a height of several hundred feet. When
he had reached his maximum altitude, he started a series of fireworks that drew
the attention not only of the large crowd at the park, but also everybody within
a radius of several miles. The fireworks display lasted for several minutes, in
fact so long that Stewart was slightly burned by the sparks, which came up into
his face as his mount started its downward journey. He rode the balloon all the
way down, alighting in the lake within 300 or 400 feet of the point where he
started. He was slightly bruised in landing, but effected a safe return to
shore.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, June 5, 1922]
NEW HOTEL WILL BE BUILT AT THE LAKE
Harry Talbert, of Cleveland, Ohio, an experienced hotel man, and a brother of
Charles Talbert, of this city, has purchased lake property south of the Long
Beach Amusement park where he will this spring build a hotel, where special
meals will be prepared for motorists and lake visitors. Talbert's establishment
will not be very large as he plans to cater to an exclusive class of trade. His
hotel will be frame construction.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, April 13, 1923]
LONG BEACH PARK IS UNDER RECEIVERSHIP
The Long Beach Hotel and Amusement Company, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Charles
Shanks, of Indianapolis, who purchased lake property here three years ago and
built the park now in existence on the north shore of the lake, has been placed
in the hands of a temporary receiver by order of the circuit court.
A petition was filed in circuit court Thursday by Abner J. Barrett, one of the
principal creditors of the company, asking the appointment of a temporary
receiver. The court ruled at once that an emergency existed and the United
States Bank & Trust Company was appointed and accepted the appointment and
qualified temporary receiver.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, June 14, 1923]
NEW DANCE PAVILION TO OPEN AT THE LAKE
Lake Manitou is to have another dance pavilion this summer, according to
announcement made Monday by Howard W. Klink, of South Bend, who has taken over
the management of the Long Beach Casino, which will be opened to the public next
Saturday, May 17. The pavilion will also be open on Sunday following and every
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday threafter during the entire season. Mr. Klink has
secured the Rythm Kings orchestra to play the season. The band, which comes to
Lake Manitou with a high reputation, features Glen Cunningham, "Blues
Singer."
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, May 12, 1924]
A. J. BARRETT BUYS LONG BEACH AMUSEMENT PARK
Abner J. Barrett Wednesday afternoon purchased the real and personal property of
the Long Beach Hotel and Amusement Company from the receiver, the United States
Bank and Trust Company, for $14,409. Mr. Barrett was the holder of the third
mortgage against the property and to protect himself he had to purchase the
other two held by the First National Bank and Oren Hendrickson.
The property was appraised sometime ago by William Biddinger and William Ewing.
Their inventory showed a valuation of $2,400 on the personal and $11,349 on the
real estate. The First National Bank held a mortgage against the property for
$4,000. Mr. Barrett's mortgage was for $5,000.
The amusement park was started about five years ago by Charles Shanks of
Indianapolis who formerly owned the Riverside Park in that city. For the first
two years the park seemed to pay, but for the last three it has been a failure.
The trouble seemed to be that it was just a one day a week affair and that on
Sunday. Attempts were made to float a bond issue for the erection of a hotel but
that proved unsuccessful.
Two years ago various suits were entered against the owner for merchandise and
other articles furnished by tradespeople to the park. These in all totaled about
$3,500. These creditors will receive a very small amount of their claims from
the receiver after the taxes and other expenses are paid out of the sum paid in
by Mr. Barrett.
The new owner this morning stated that he intended to sell the park to an
Indianapolis man who has had much experience in the amusement business. In case
he is not successful, Mr. Barrett will lease it to some man to operate next
summer. The property purchased by Mr. Barrett is one of the most valuable around
the lake and in fact is one of the few sites left for building purposes on Lake
Manitou. It would make an admirable hotel site and it has a good bathing beach.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, November 6, 1924]
The Long Beach Amusement Park, which was purchased at receiver sale last
winter by A. J. Barrett and which was so badly damaged by the cyclone which
visited this community on March 11, has been entirely rebuilt, in readiness for
the opening this summer.
The 150 foot bath house which was shoved 12 feet to the east off its foundation
by the cyclone, has been righted, as have the shoot the shoots, and the boat
swings.
A new pier has been built, while every building has been re-roofed and repainted
and the grounds thoroughly cleared. The building which housed the giant
mechanical organ will not be rebuilt.
The bathing beach, which is the finest one around the lake, has been cleaned of
moss and debris. Several carloads of sand have been scattered over the bottom of
the beach.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Friday, May 15, 1925]
DANCE PAVILION TO BE BUILT OVER THE LAKE
The first over-water dance pavioion in northern Indiana will be constructed and
in operation shortly at Long Beach, Lake Manitou, it was learned Monday together
with announcement that Ray Castetter, Indianapolis amusement man, had purchased
the Manitou Hotel on the Long Beach bluff from the heirs of the late Harry
Talbott. Construction of the project was begun Monday and will be rushed to
completion within a week or ten days. Mr. Castetter's plans include remodeling
of the hotel into one of the finest resorts in the state.
The dance pavilion, which will be erected on piers sunk in the lake in front of
the hotel, will have a 60 foot floor, and around the floor room for refreshment
tables and electrical equipment to light the dance floor, in a number of varied
ways. The pavilion will be decorated in the form of a garden. The floor of the
pavilion will be of maple construction.
Mr. Castetter has contracted for the services of a capital musical organization,
now playing in an Indianapolis moving picture theater and which is credited as
being a peerless band. The name of the organization is being withheld for the
present, but it is said to be familiar to Rochester dancers. An effort will be
made to have the pavilion open for dancing Sunday night.
The remodeling of the hotel will add to the comfort of the building, will
include more rooms and will make the hostelry one of the best at any Hoosier
resort. Long Beach is known as the breeziest place on the lake.
The erection of the pavilion will give Manitou its third dance hall, and it is
expected that L. F. Thomas, new owner of the West Side hotel, will build a dance
hall before the summer is over.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Monday, June 8, 1925]
LONG BOOK STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] New Book Store and News Depot - G. G. LONG - Books and Stationery, Wall
Paper & Window Shades - - - South Side Public Square.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, March 8, 1877]
LONG BOOTS & SHOES [Rochester, Indiana]
Boots & Shoes. E. Long is still manufacturing an excellent article of Boots
& Shoes, at his shop near the Hardware Store of Levi Mercer . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 11, 1864]
Elihu Long, Manufacturer of Boots & Shoes, land Dealer in Leather, Lasts,
Pegs, Boot Trees, &c. Rochester, Indiana. Shop on Main Street, opposite the
Public Square.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, September 7, 1865]
H. C. Long would respectfully inform his friends and the public generally,
that he has gone into the Boot & Shoe business, at E. Long's old Stand,
opposite the Court House, and two doors North of Mercer & Shepherd's
Hardware Store. . . Rochester, Ind. Oct. 10th, 1865.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, October 12, 1865]
Closing Up. All those having unsettled accounts with the undersigned are
requested to call and settle immediately . . . as I am closing up my business .
. . Boots & Shoes . . . stock of leathers which I wish to make up to order .
. . H. C. Long.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 25, 1867]
Notice. Is hereby given that all persons indebted to H. C. Long will call at
the Shoe Shop and store of Elihu Long, and settle their accounts immediately.
Horace C. Long having left all his accounts and notes in my hands for
collection. Elihu Long.
---The Old Stand The old Pioneer is again in business. Elihu Long has purchased
the stock of Boots and Shoes in Long's Building, of his son, Capt. H. C. Long .
. .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, December 19, 1867]
LONGTOWN [ - - - - - ]
The town is about two miles in length. The principal place is the Elmer's
school, and the meeting house on Walnut street.
The meeting house is Baptist. Rev. Mr. Marsh is minister.
[Longtown Dottings, Rochester Union-Spy, Thursday, February 12, 1874]
LOOKOUT HILL [Henry Township]
The knoll upon which the Clark Farm Cemetery is located.
LOOMIS, WILLLIAM MACKEY [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] - - - - Prices on goods are as low as if closing out. For instance - - - -
- - Come in and see WILL LOOMIS, Successor to Geo. Wallace.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, February 16, 1894]
[Adv] FARMERS STORE. We want your trade and will give you Bargains to hold
it. - - - WILL LOOMIS, Successor to Geo. Wallace.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 30, 1894]
[Adv] - - - - THE FARMERS relief STORE - - - - W. M. LOOMIS, Prop. South of
Court house.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 1, 1895]
W. M. LOOMIS (Biography)
Fulton county possesses in its midst W. M. (Will) LOOMIS, one of the most
prominent and successful dry goods men in the city and county. The business was
formerly conducted by Geo. H. WALLACE, and purchased from him by Mr. Loomis in
February, 1894. Since which time the sales have largely increased. Mr. Loomis
attended Wabash college from 1879 to 1884, and while there discovered the
largest mushroom ever found in the United States and the next largest ever found
in the world. It measured 5-1/2 feet long, 3 feet wide, and contained upward of
150 pounds of edible matter. He was interviewed in regard to the find by
correspondents of the leading Botanical Journals of the United States and
Europe. Mr. Loomis was secretary of the Fulton county Agricultural society for
two years and is widely and favorably known throughout the county.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
BIOGRAPHY
William Mackey Loomis, one of the progressive and successful business men of
Rochester, was born in Fulton county June 29, 1858, and is a son of Noah and
Mary (Mackey) Loomis. The father was born in Massachusetts, and was a son of
Norman Loomis, who was descended from an old Massachusetts family, whose first
representatives in America were among the Mayflower emigrants. Norman Loomis and
family came to Fulton county in an early day, and here the parents of our
subject were married. Mary Mackey Loomis, the mother of our subject, was born in
Indiana. She is a daughter of William Mackey, who came from the Old Dominion
state to Fulton county at a very early date in the history of the county. Noah
Loomis, the father of William M., died in 1860, and his widow and only child
then made their home with our subject's maternal grandfather till his death,
which occurred in 1876. William worked on the grandfather's farm and attended
the common schools. He entered Wabash college in 1879, graduating in the class
of 1884. He began farming immediately after his return from school, and
continued the same up to 1894, when he became a merchant. He opened a dry goods
store and has since conducted business in general merchandising. He has been
secretary of the Fulton county Agricultural society, and his efforts were
fruitful in rendering successful the fairs held by the society. In 1888 Mr.
Loomis and Ella May Shepard were united in marriage. Unto the union have been
born two sons and two daughters, viz.: Zethie, Shepard, Dewey and Elta. Mr.
Loomis is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias, and is a republican in
politics.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 101-102]
LOOMIS & BRO. [Rochester, Indiana]
Notice of Dissolution. Copartnership between J. F. Loomis and T. W. Loomis,
under the firm and style of J. F. Loomis & Bro., . . . will remain in the
hands of J. F. Loomis.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 23, 1859]
J. F. Loomis Steam planing Mill and Sash, Door and Blind manufactory. Rochester,
Ind.
[Rochester Gazette, Thursday, December 9, 1858]
See Planing Mill, Rochester City
LOOMIS & HENDRICKS [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] SAND-RIDGE POULTRY FARM is now prepared to furnish Eggs from carefully
selected stock of Barred Plymouth Rocks, Silver Laced Wyandottes, or Light
Brahmas.
Also Poultry Supplies, Wire Netting, Rubber Roofing and Prairie State
Incubators. Call or address, LOOMIS & HENDRICKS, Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, March 10, 1893]
LORD, NATHAN L. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Rev. N. L. Lord. - Among the men whose lives have been an influence for good in
this county is the venerable Rev. Nathan L. Lord, who was engaged in the
ministry in this and adjoining counties for nearly a quarter of a century, but
for the past dozen years practically retired. He was born in Lewis county, N.Y.,
Aug. 23, 1815. He grew up on his father's farm and at the age of five years was
sent to the village school. He entered Amherst college at eighteen and was
graduated from that famous university four years later. He engaged in teaching
some three or four years, while reading preparatory to entering the ministry. At
twenty-nine years of age he was licensed by the New York presbytery at Watertown
and his first work was as a supply at Constableville, N.Y. The next year he
started West, stopping temporarily at Shalerville, Ohio. The year 1845 he
reached Dubois county, Ind., and there remained five years. He came North was
was stationed at Plymouth, Ind., three years, at the end of which time he
removed to the vicinity of Argos. While there he began his work in Rochester. In
1860 he moved his family here and has since been one of Rochester's most
respected and valued citizens. He returned to educational work while filling the
pulpit in this county, and was principal of a Rochester school and afterward was
employed as assistant, teaching the languages exclusively. He retired from the
school room about 1870, and from the ministry, except for an occasional funeral
or other special sermon, about 1885. Since his retirement his time has been
passed on a small farm west of Rochester, or at his home in this city. Rev. Lord
is descended from the Lords of Norwich, Conn. His father, Gurdon Lord, being
born there about 1780. At twenty years of age he emigrated West to New York
state and aided in clearing up the county where our subject was born. He was a
soldier in the war of 1812, and was a son of Nathan Lord, also a native of
Connecticut. Gurdon married Sallie Dewey, from Massachusetts. Their children
were Lydia Horr, who died at Ravenna, Ohio, 1893; John D., died at Leyden, N.Y.;
Nathan L., and Mary Ann, deceased. Rev. Lord was married at Plymouth, Ind., in
June of 1851, to Mrs. Emeline Hawley, a daughter of Squire Rose, a native of
Canandaigua, who became one of the early citizens of Marshall county. Mrs.
Lord's only child was by her first husband, and was a daughter named Helen, now
the widow of Christopher Fitzgerald, who died in Rochester seven years ago,
leaving the following children: Edwin H., druggist, Goshen,Ind.; Carrie, Nellie,
and William L. Rev. Lord has kept aloof from politics. He has always been a
strong and powerful advocate of temperance. His career has been blameless and
spotless, and his life exemplary.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 102]
LORD'S [Rochester City]
In the north half of the 800 block on Main street beginning from the
intersecting alley, B. Levi operated a dry goods store. Next door Charley
Mitchell conducted a card room with, I believe, a billiard table or so. The room
later became "My Show," a popular movie house and now occupied by
Adler's Dress Shop. Then Joe Levi Clothing Store and Charles Plank operated a
shoestore. Ditmire's was next in line to Nobby True's Restaurant. A. C.
Copeland's bank and on the corner occupied by People's Drugs (now Lord's) was
Jonathan Dawson, one of Rochester's earliest dispenser of quinine, Brickle's
linament, Dr. King's New Discovery and prescription and patent medicines long
ago forgotten in this day of sulfa drugs, etc.
[Earle A. Miller, The News-Sentinel, Monday, July 14, 1958]
LORING, CHARLES J. [Rochester, Indiana]
C. J. LORING (Biography)
Dr. C. J. LORING, Fulton county's esteemed and able representative, was born in
Grant county, Indiana, in 1850, and resided there until 1866, when, together
with his parents, he moved to Monterey in Pulaski county this state. His early
manhood was spent on the farm, alternated with teaching school in the winter.
Always studious he employed every spare moment with his books, and in the way
obtained a thorough and practical education. As a teacher he was a success, but
feeling that he could be more useful in life as a physician, he commenced the
study of medicine in 1876, and soon after engaged in the practice of medicine in
Richland township, Fulton county, and in 1883 moved to Rochester, where his
skill as a physician and uniform kindness of disposition soon secured for him a
lucrative practice. Dr. Loring is a man of strong convictions yet liberal in his
views and freely grants to all the same right to their opinions that he claims
for his own.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
BIOGRAPHY
Hon. Charles J. Loring, M.D., is one of the leading physicians and surgeons of
Fulton county, and a man of unquestioned public spirit and enterprise. He was
born in Grant county, Ind., Sept. 22, 1850, and is a son of John and Nancy
(Cain) Loring. His father was born in Darke county, Ohio, in 1804, and died at
Monterey, Ind., in 1872. His ancestors, who were of French origin, were early
settlers of New Jersey. Dr. Loring's mother was born in Randolph county, Ind.,
in 1823, and died April 26, 1896, in Marshall county, Ind. She bore her husband
ten children, three of whom died in infancy. The parents of Dr. Loring were
unable to give their children a good education, and hence the schooling the
subject of this biography received was confined to the country schools. Early in
his youth he developed strong love for books, and to them he made close
application. Although he lived and worked on a farm till twenty-six years of
age, his ambition to lead a professional life was made possible through school
teaching as a stepping-stone. He secured a teacher's license at the age of
eighteen years, and became a teacher. In the winter he taught in the district
schools, and in the summer tilled the soil. Having previously taken up the study
of medicine, he entered the Indiana medical college, at Indianapolis, in the
fall of 1877. After taking a course in medicine, he located at Walnut, Ind., and
began the practice of his chosen profession in 1878. In the fall of 1879 he
re-entered the Indiana medical college, whence he graduated in March, 1880. In
1879 he married Augusta F. Bair, who died at Tiosa, Ind., in 1881, leaving a
daughter, Dessa A. In 1882 he married Mrs. Malinda Phillips, nee Thompson. In
1883 he removed to Rochester, where he has grown into prominence, not only as a
physician, but as a public spirited citizen. He has always been a firm
republican in politics. His party made him its candidate for the legislature in
1894, and though he had a democratic majority to overcome in the county, he was
elected to the office, and as a member of the house of representatives in the
fifty-ninth session of the general assembly of 1895, he proved himself an able
legislator. He was a member of the benevolent, scientific and statistical
committees and was chairman of the committee on medicine, health and vital
statistics. Having the disposition to favor all interests of public enterprise,
he introduced the bill which became a law and which made it possible for the
county commissioners to purchase toll roads, thus relieving the people of a
great burden and hence encouraged the further and more extensive building of
gravel roads throughout the counties. Dr. Loring is an active member of the
I.O.O.F., in which he has filled all the offices of the subordinate lodge, and
is a member of the grand lodge of the state. In 1890 he became a member of the
order of Knights of Pythias, and has taken much intrest in this fraternal
organization. He has surmounted many obstacles that have come before him in the
course of his life, and today he stands as an example of much that may be
accomplished by industry, perseverance and integrity.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 102-103]
DR. C. J. LORING PRESIDENT
The tenth semi-annual session of the Thirteenth District Medical Society, which
was held in Warsaw on Friday, was one of the most successful meetings ever held.
More than forty physicians attendeed. The district is composed of the same
counties that make up the Thirteenth congressional district, and in order of
rank in the medical world is between the county and state medical societies. The
next meeting, which will be held in the spring, will be in Goshen.
It was the time for the election of new officers and the result follows:
President, C. J. Loring, of Rochester; vice president, Dr. L. D. Eley, of
Plymouth; secretary and treasurer, Dr. C. Norman Howard, of Warsaw. The old
officers were: President, Dr. Charles Stoltz, of South Bend; vice president, Dr.
William Kelsey, of Monterey; secretary and treasurer, Dr. J. B. Porter, of
Elkhart.
In the afternoon session, which was held in the G.A.R. headquarters in the court
house, the following papers were given: - - - - - - - "Diagnosis and
Treatment of Acute Intestinal Obstruction," by Dr. C. J. Loring, of
Rochester, - - - - - -.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, November 22, 1909]
LOST LAKE [Henry Township]
Located approximately 1525E and 250S.
LOUDERBACK, FRANCIS M. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
LOUDERBACK, HARRY [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
LOUDERBACK, L. V. R. [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
LOUDERBACK GARAGE [Rochester Indiana]
Located E side of street at 529 Main.
Operated by L.V.R. Louderback and his brother Harry R.Louderback.
Harry R. Louderback died in 1968, and L.V.R. died in1972, at which time Tad
Louderback, son of L.V.R., became owner of the firm. At that time they were the
Agency for Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick and Cadillac automobiles.
Employees: Milton Gibbs Whittenberger
See: Glidden Automobile Tour
See: Rochester, Indiana [Historical Review]
__________
[Adv] MICHELIN TIRES. Michelin was the first to manufacture pneumatic
automobile tires and now produces more than 50% of all the tires made in the
world. In Stock by F. M. LOUDERBACK, 409 North Main St., Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 8, 1910]
[Adv] The 1913 Mitchell - - - - - - - - LOUDERBACK'S GARAGE.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, February 27, 1913]
NEW GARAGE FOR F. LOUDERBACK
In order to meet the increased demand for automobile repair, Francis Louderback,
owner of the garage on north Main street, will soon have a new building, which
will be strictly modern and up to date.
The new structure will be built by I. N. Good, the owner of the present
building. The present one will be torn down. The proposed garage will be 91 feet
long and 60 feet wide. It will be covered by a self supporting roof which will
allow machines to move around freely, there being no posts in the floor space.
Work on the building will begin soon. Francis Louderback and son Harry have been
very busy this season in repair work.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, May 13, 1914]
[Adv} Goodyear Service Station. Louderback Garage. Hudson-Essex-Dort.
[Adv] Hudson, Essex. Watch The Essex. The small fine car. Louderback Garage,
Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, February 27, 1922]
BUSINESS REVIEW OF ROCHESTER MERCHANTS
Present day business methods demand close attention to every phase of work and
service, but some firms seem to be able to step out a little in advance of
others in the matter of taking care of every detail of the service in connection
with the offering of quality products. This automotive concern is a notable
example of this advancement.
The Hudson, which is one of the classiest cars manufactured today, represents
the acme of modern automobile construction. With an enviable record as regards
tire and gasoline mileage for a car of its class, also proper weight gives this
popular car the lead in high class motor cars. Not only has this wonderful car
triumphed on the speedway, but in the congested city, and upon the broad
highway. It has at all times been the peer of its class. It is not a new
automobile but has been manufactured for years and has withstood the competition
and the severe tests of time. One of the greatest compliments that could be paid
this car is the fact that it has many imitators in the various designs that have
been pioneers and leaders. It is made in all models and will suit the needs of
either business or pleasure.
The new Hudson Coach sells for but $1795 F.O.B. factory, and for real value it
has no equal.
The Essex is one of the classiest cars on the market, and is sold at a very
reasonable price. If you want class at a moderate price you should look at the
Essex.
All want such advantages as the Essex Coach contains. Heretofore they were
beyond the pockets of many. The new type Essex Coach at $1345 (F.O.B.) gives
them in full measure, at little more than the cost of open models.
The Essex is the car that made the sensational run from San Francisco to New
York in 4 days, 14 hours and 42 minutes, breaking all previous records for cross
country runs. The cars that made this trip are now on exhibition in various
parts of the country.
It is indeed unusual to find a car the appearance of which is a genuine business
asset a car of which you can feel honestly proud in any company and under all
circumstances - - - which at the same time req uires so little for operating
expenses and is priced so low.
The new improved Essex retains all the qualities through which the old Essex
established its noted records and won the esteem of owners. But in addition are
refinements and improvements that will delight and surprise owners of the old
Essex quite as much as non-owners.
You will find them courteous and accommodating salesmen, with a comprehensive
knowledge of the business.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, August 17, 1922]
[Adv] DODGE BROTHERS Cars. No Yearly Models. For Ten Years Dependable. Buy
Now! LOUDERBACK GARAGE, Sales Phone 84.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, March 17, 1925]
ASSUME BUICK AGENCY
The Louderback Sales Room has taken the agency for Buick automobiles in Fulton
county, which has been open territory since Walter Brubaker, owner of the garage
on South Main street bearing his name, gave up the agency 15 months ago. The
Louderbacks have on display a Master Six coach which they brought through from
Indianapolis branch Friday. They expect other models next week. The Louderback
Sales Room prior to taking on the Buck line had the agency in this county for
Hudson, Essex and Dodge products.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, April 18, 1925]
CHANGE AGENCY FOR AUTO PLATES HERE ON FRIDAY
The auto license distribution, handled here for three years at the Louderback
salesroom, had been transferred to Ray Nerwell, owner of the Rochester Auto
Supply company, 610 North Main street. . . . . .
Thirty-seven hundred plates will be distributed in this county, beginning Dec.
15.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Saturday, December 5, 1925]
OAKLAND-PONTIAC AGENCY PURCHASED BY LOUDERBACK
Important change in the automobile field in Rochester was transacted Thursday
afternoon when the Louderback Garage purchased the Oakland-Pontiac agency
contract from C. I. Briggs. New cars are already on exhibition at Loudergback's
spacious salesroom 535-539 North Main street.
Owing to the widespread popularity of the Oaklands and Pontiacs throughout this
territory the Louderbacvks had been extremely anxious in adding these moderate
priced cars to their agency and after several weeks bartering the deal was
finally consumated.
Mr. Briggs when interviewed today stated he would continue with an agency here,
having already taken over the Graham-Paige line and is also considering the
addition of another popular and moderate-priced car.
No changes in the personnel of either of these agencies has as yet been made.
Mr. Briggs was the first automobile dealer to introduce the Pontiac models in
this locality, having opened up his agency here a little over two years ago.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, August 31, 1928]
[Adv] A new six at a price within the reach of millions! MARQUETTE, Built By
Buick. Saturday - - - - - HARRY R. LOUDERBACK, Rochester, Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 20, 1929]
LOUDERBACK BROS. ACCEPT FORD AGENCY CONTRACT
The Louderback Brothers auto agency, of this city, yesterday was officially
informed that they had been appointed as the new Ford dealers in this community,
supplanting the Fulton County Motor Co.
In an interview today with the Louderbacks they stated that they were more than
pleased with being able to secure the Ford line of autos for their agency, as
the general trend was toward the 8-cylinder cars. The local automobile men who
have been conducting an agency here for over 30 years stated that the new
"Eights" are far more economical than the sixes and furthermore much
smoother in riding qualities, due to the proper balancing of the chasis, engines
and body.
A complete line of the new Fords, both passenger models and trucks, as well as
parts, service and tool equipment will be carried at their spacious salesrooms
and shops located at 523-529 North Main Street.
The agency reports business on the up-turn at their establishment and three new
employees have recently been added to their force. A large advirtisement
announcing the Ford agency change will be carried in Thursday's issue of the
News-Sentinel.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 19, 1933]
HISTORICAL REVIEW OF CITY'S PIONEER BUSINESS CONCERNS
A PIONEER GARAGE
"Yes sir, boys, everybody will have an automobile, and some of these days
you'll live to see people riding along our country roads at a speed of 40 miler
per hour."
That, in essence, was the prophecy mady by Francis M. Louderback, pioneer garage
men, to his sons, Harry and L.V., around the turn of the century. While filial
respect engendered a trust in the boys concerning the bright future for the
"horseless carriage," there were many townfolk who regarded the
forecast as nothing more than a "pipe dream."
"Hell," said one of the lovers of horse-flesh, "forty miles an
hour! That's faster than Dan Patch ever stepped. What's that man Louderback
talkin' about? . . . And, judging by the way some of the early "horseless
carriages" performed a couple score of years ago there is little wonder the
town was full of "doubting Thomases."
Francis M. Louderback, who operated one of the city's first garages and
"horseless carriages" sales agencies, was born on a farm in Liberty
township, Fulton county, Ind., in 1868. He came to Rochester in 1895, where for
a few years he was engaged as a "spotter" for a lumber company.
Interested In Horseless Carriages
During the short time the elder Louderback was employd by the lumber firm, he
became extremely interested in the "horseless carriages" which had
made their first appearance in Rochester in 1900. That the lumberman's interest
was more than a passing fancy is evidenced by the fact that in 1905, he
purchased a Rambler touring car. In 1906, Mr. Louderback resigned his position
with the lumber company and opened ujp a general garage and automobile
sales-room in the two-story brick building now occupied by the Reed furniture
store, 621-623 Main steet.
According to L. V. Louderback, youngest son of the veteran garage man, the
Louderback Rambler was a two-cylinder, side-cranking touring car. This auto was
manufactured in Kenosha, Wis. and in those days the top, windshield and carbide
lamps had to be purchased as "extra" equipment. L. V. stated it was a
man-sized job to crank one of these oldtimers, and the exhaust detonations from
the husky two-cylinder could easily be heard three blocks away.
"Three-Wheelers" First Cars
The old Louderback Rambler, had a few earlier vintage ancestors in Rochester,
however. The first group of gas-propelled autos put in their appearance here
around 1900. They were "three-wheelers" and the owners of these
curious type vehicles were Jonathan Dawson, druggist; George Wallace, realtor;
Rome Stephenson, banker; and Randolph "Sport" Sperling and Ike Wile
(the latter two citizens having the agency for the "horseless
carriage.")
The three-wheelers were manufactured by the Featherstone Bicycle Co. of Chicago.
The Featherstone was powered with a one cylinder, one and one-half horse-power
engine which was perched out in the open over the front wheel. The steering
apparatus was a long, stick-like handle which operated much the same as guiding
lever on the old three-wheeled vehicles.
When questioned about the speed of these "prehistoric autos" L. V.
stated their top speed was around 8 or 9 miles an hour when they run, and that
was just occasionally.
Powered Like Crawfish
Ike Wile, in commenting on his experiences with the Featherstone Specials stated
the blamed things would run fairly well on a straight run of road, but when you
came to a hill the Featherstone was brought to a halt, turned around and thrown
into reverse gear and the incline was surmounted. "In those days," Ike
remarked, "Speed was of a secondary matter. Achievement, was the real goal
of the motorists in the late nineties."
In the next few years following the introduction of the
"three-wheelers" several of the town's more progressive citizens
decided to give the "new-fangled" contraptions a try.
Among these early auto owners were Fred Sangster, (Rambler touring); Dr.
Winfield Scott Shafer, (Holeman high buggy-wheeled type roadster); Randolph
Sperling, (Rambler); Ike M. Wile, (Rambler); Dr. M. O. King, (Rambler touring);
Lyman M. Brackett, (Great Northern); Maurice Shelton, salesman for the Brackett
Progress Grocery, (Rambler, single-seater with a right-angle steering device);
Henry A. Barnhart (Studebaker E. M. F.); M. Jones, (Bush roadster); George W.
Holman, (Mitchell); Norman Stoner, (Mitchell); A. L. Deniston, (Hupp); Tom
Lovett, (Olds); Cal Hoover, (Bush) and others.
Three electric runabouts also put in their appearance about the same time as
when the "Rambler" craze struck town. Owners of the electrics were
William H. Deniston; J. E. Beyer and Daniel Agnew. These electrics outlived
their gasoline sputtering "cousins" by several years.
Glidden Tours Recalled
One of the really big events for the home folk during the embryonic stage of
motoring was the Glidden tour which was held annually for three or four years.
The "tour" was in the form of an endurance run for the various makes
of automobiles, and in county seats along the route of the test run there were
established "checkers" whose duties were to cherck in and out all
contestants.
The runs usually started in Detroit and by the time the caravan of snorting,
steaming, grimy machines would reach Rochester, there would only be about half
of the original starting number. In later years, however, a few of the improved
cars managed to reach the west coast.
5c Per Ride
During the same period, the "horseless carriage" was a feature at the
county fairs and the townspeople could obtain a half mile ride for a nickel or a
full mile for a dime. An old White Steamer, with an elongated tonneau did a
thriving busines at the Fulton county fair grounds around the turn of the
century for a few years.
Resuming the Louderback garage preview, the elder Louderback took over the
agency for the Great Northern, which was rated as one of the finest autos in the
country at that time, and was built in Detroit. Another of the popular cars
taken into the Louderback agency was The Richmond, which was manufactured in
Richmond, Ind.
As the popularity of the Great Northern and Richmond began to lag, Mr.
Louderback suspended the agency contracts and began handling the Mitchell
automobile. These large, six-cylinder touring cars were made in Racine, Wis.,
and the big models of this popular auto sold for well over $2,000.
In 1911, Francis Louderback moved his garage and auto sales agency on the
north-half of the present site of the business, 515-525 North Main street.
Following this move, the firm added Hudson, Dodge, Chrysler, Buick, Pontiac and
Olds to its steadily growing agency. It was around this same period that the
founder's sons, Harry and L. V., were taken in as members of the firm. Harry
Louderback received his education in the automobile business at the Mitchell
plant in Racine, Wis., and L. V. graduated from an engineering course at Purdue
university.
Made Own Parts
Relating some of the early experiences of the first few years of the garage
business, L. V. stated that in those days there were no standard parts for the
autos and when a gear was stripped or a rod broken, it was up to the garage man
to "tool out" a part for the replacement. For several years, the elder
Louderback, a natural mechanic, made all of the necessary parts to keep his
patrons' "horseless carriages" on the highways.
During these same years the firm operated an auto livery, serving a radius of
approximately 50 miles from this city. On these trips the garage would not only
supply a driver, but also an assistant whose duty it was to get out and lead the
"raring Dobbins" safely past the "popping, wheezing
automobile."
Runaway horses in those days were common and the few "sports" who
ventured on the rural roads in their gasoline "rattlers" received
numerous "cussings" from those who stuck to the somewhat slower, but
more certain way of travel.
"Bloody" Experience
L. V. remembered a most amusing accident caused by the Louderback's first
Rambler. The Louderbacks were out riding on the old Michigan road south of the
city and a rural family driving a team of horses to a carriage were enroute to
their home after attending the Fulton county fair. The team sighting the
chugging auto, reared into the air and then plunged down the highway a short
distance and headed for an open field. The farm family and carriage were
deposited in a ditch alongside the road and as the elder Louderback and son went
to assist the family from the wreckage, they noted the people were a mass of
"blood" from head to foot. Closer scruteny however, revealed that the
family was returning home with a half dozen or so of their prize-winning
watermelons and these big, ripe, blue ribbon winners had cushioned the shock of
the upset in a most effective though gruesome manner.
Another "brush" with the farmers' scorn for the auto was occasioned in
the spring of the year of 1905 when the Louderback car bogged down in the mud in
front of the Bill Wagoner farm about four miles south of Rochester. While the
garage man and his boys were attempting to dig out the Rambler, old Bill
Wagoner, who was leaning on his fence thoroughly enjoying the Louderbacks'
labors, drly remarked: "By Bawd, if I had my way that's were everyone of
them autos would be."
Makes Rapid Strides
Despite the hesitancy of the horse lovers to give a blanket endorsement to the
auto, motoring soon began to make rapid strides and several agencies and garages
were established in Rochester. The Louderbacks state the peak years of their
business were during the World War days and the next few years following.
Roger Babson, in or around the year of 1919, L. V. stated, made the statement
that automobile sales had reached the saturation point and hereafter it would be
only a matter of replacement for the cars then in use. Disregarding this rather
gloomy forecast, the Louderbacks consulted with local bankers and in the
following winter made extra heavy purchases of various makes of cars. The
following spring found business brisker than ever and the increase in the
production of the standard makes of machines since that time has been most
constant.
Erect Modern Garage
In 1927, the Louderbacks built a most modern garage and salesroom which embraces
a quarter of a city block. The business which is located at 515 to 529 Main
street, with a branch sales agency at 615 Main, employs a large force of
mechanics, sales people and clerical workers, today. Automobiles handled by the
agency today are the Buick and Chevrolet.
The personnel of the Louderback sales agency today is comprised of the
following: Max Hardin, Fred "Bill" Ritchie; Raymond Tippy; Mary
Hardin; Dorothy Hatfield; Oscar Scott; Frank Kennedy; Ralph Coffman; Dean
Drudge; Ola Alspach; Charley Bilyew; Paul Scott; Lloyd Reddinger; Raymond Goss;
Gene Tippy and Milton Whittenberger.
Francis M. Louderback, founder of the garage and sales agency, passed away in
1935. Since that time the business has been owned and operated by his two sons,
Harry and L. V.
While it is true Rochester may have had other garagemen who engaged in business
about the same time as the elder Louderback, there is none who has handled the
"horseless carriages" for nearly two score of years without some
"break" in that exclusive line of business.
Among the other early garagemen and sales agencies were Chas. E. Robbins, later
Robbins and Perry Ritchie; Sport Sperling; Ross Brothers garage and foundry;
Dennis Stockberger; Gene Southard; Fred Robbins; John Taylor and possibly a few
others.
The city's chief garages today are the J. W. Brubaker garage, Donald Ross
garage, Dyche Motors, Inc., Gilliland's garage, Hagan Bros. garage, Miller Bros.
garage, Sawyer Motors Sales, Kepler Motor Sales and the McLochlin Hudson sales
and garage.
[The News-Sentinel, Friday, May 16, 1941]
LOUGH, DAVID [Union Township]
BIOGRAPHY
David Lough, Sr., whose father was, about the year 1766, in Pennsylvania, and
was a soldier in the struggle for independence, was born near the French River,
in East Tennessee, December 3, 1802, and was raised in Monroe County, Ky., and
when nearly twenty-one years old went out to Ohio, where he married Mary
Railsback in 1824, and in the fall of that year they moved to Marion County,
Ind., where they remained until 1838, when, in February of that year, they came
and settled where Mr. Harry B. now resides. Mrs. Lough was born in Preble
County, Ohio, April 8, 1808, and died at the old homestead in Union Township May
19, 1872. Mr. Lough resides with his son Lewis M., in Aubbeenaubbee Township.
Mr. L. is the father of twelve children,viz.: Nancy, William, Lucinda, Jacob,
Lewis M., Harrison B., John M., Mary J., Mahala and David, Jr., two infants not
named. Of those mentioned, seven are living. Mr. Lough has been an active member
of some church for over fifty years. In politics he is a Democrat.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 58]
LOUGH, HARRISON B. [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Harrison B. Lough will long be remembered as one of the substantial farmers and
reliable citizens of Fulton county. He was born in Marion county, Indiana, on
November 18, 1836, the son of David and Mary (Railsback) Lough. His parents
moved to Fulton county while he was a child. He became a farmer and was
successful in this line of work, owning a farm of seventy-two acres. He married,
January 17, 1872, Isabelle Ginther, a native of Fulton county, where she was
born on June 4, 1848. She was educated in the public schools of her home
community and then attended the Logansport College, of Logansport, Indiana for
one term. She continued to live on the farm after the death of her husband, who
died on April 1, 1900, and is buried in the Moon cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Lough
were born five children: Jennie Marie, Ada May, Reed Dale, Addie E., and Albert
Ray. Jennie Marie Lough married T. J. Bridegroom, a farmer, and to them have
been born three children. She attended Rochester Normal College and taught four
years. Ada May Lough married H. A. Neely, of Detroit, and they have two
children. She was educated in the public schools and in the Rochester College,
after which she taught music for some months. Reed Dale Lough was educated in
the public schools and is now a traveling salesman. Addie E. Lough was educated
in the public and high schools of her home community and then attended the
Rochester Normal College, after which she taught school one term. She then
married Arthur Caple, a merchant of Greenwood, Indiana, and who is now deceased.
She has six children. Albert Ray Lough was educated in the graded and high
schools of his home community and then engaged in farming on the home farm,
where he now makes his residence. In the possession of the Lough family, is a
vest made of flax by the great grandmother of Harrison Lough. This vest is said
to be at least one hundred and twenty-five years old.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 232-233, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
LOUGH, LEWIS M. [Aubbeenaubbee Township]
BIOGRAPHY
He is the son of David and Mary Lough. His father was born in the eastern part
of Tennessee, but was reared in Monroe County, Ky. Went to Preble County, Ohio,
when he was twenty-one years old, and two years later married Mary Railsback and
came out to Marion County, Ind., and settled about ten miles west of
Indianapolis, and in February, 1838, came to this county and settled at his
present residence. Mrs. Lough was born and raised in Preble County, Ohio, and is
the daugher of Jacob and Martha Railsback. The former was born in North Carolina
and the latter in Barren County, Ky. The subject of this sketch was born in
Marion County, Ind., March 24, 1835, and came to this county with his parents,
in February, 1838. He married Mary F. Caple, April 18, 1880, and immediately
commenced life on their present home farm. Mrs. Lewis Lough is the daughter of
Andrew and Magdelina Caple, of this county, and was born in Miami County, Ind.,
May 28, 1858. Mr. Lough is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has served as
Township Trustee for some time.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 34]
BIOGRAPHY
Lewis M. Lough was born in Marion county,Ind., March 24, 1835. David Lough, his
father, was born in Tennessee, Dec. 4, 1803. His great-grandfather was shipped
from Germany to America and sold to the Quakers for his passage. There were
three brothers shipped to America, each having to work out his passage, one
being compelled to labor seven years. The father, David Lough, came to Indiana
in 1822 and settled in Marion county. He removed to Fulton county in 1839, which
was then in a very primitive state. The family of David Lough consisted of
eleven children - Nancy, deceased; William, Lucinda, Jacob, Lewis, Harrison,
John, Mary Jane, Mahala, deceased; Washington, deceased; David. Upon coming to
Indiana he settled on the farm now owned by his son Harrison. At the time of his
death he owned 240 acres. He died March 6, 1889. His wife preceded him in death,
May 19, 1872. Lewis remained with his parents on the farm until he was thirty
years of age, having in the meantime received but a common school education.
However, he really made his own way from the age of twenty-one, just making his
home with his father. At about the age of thirty Mr. Lough purchased some 120
acres of land, having saved enough to pay for the same. He had been interested
in buying and selling stock. April 19, 1880, he married Mary F. Caple, the
daughter of Andrew and Magdalena Caple, then residents of Union township, Fulton
county. To this marriage have been born two children--Frank B. and Edith Anna.
After his marriage Mr. Lough moved upon the farm he had previously purchased,
where he has since resided. He has always been interested in farming and
stock-raising, and been a staunch democrat. He and his wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal church. In the spring of 1879 he was appointed to fill the
unexpired term of S. J. Barger as trustee of Aubbeenaubbee township. He was
elected as trustee in 1880 for a term of two years. Mr. Lough is a prosperous
and industrious farmer and owns 160 acres of valuable land, which he has greatly
improved.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 104]
LOUGH, REED [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
LOUGH'S GROCERY & MEAT MARKET [Rochester, Indiana]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Ott McMahan and Bruce Love wish to see you at Lough's grocery and meat market.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, November 28, 1905]
THE GROCERY BUSINESS
The sale of 3 Bros. Grocery to Mr. Lon Lough & Son transfers the business
into hands as reliable and painstaking to please the trade as were the popular
McMahans. The Messrs Lough are widely known as square dealing obliging gentlemen
and the many former patrons of the store will find the new management worthy of
all favors. Mr. Otto McMahan will remain with the new firm for some time and he
invites all of his old customers to come and get acquainted with the new
proprietors and give them a trial.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, November 29, 1905]
LOVATT, THOMAS F. [Rochester, Indiana]
THOMAS F. LOVATT (Biography)
One of Fulton County's most prominent farmers is Thomas F. LOVATT, Commissioner
of the 2d district. He was born in Pennsylvania Sep 7, 1845, and came to Peru,
Ind., seven years later. Here he learned the founders and machinists trade and
followed the vocation as laborer, foreman, superintendent and owner of
twenty-five years, being connected with the famous Hackley foundry in all the
capacities named. Some years after his marriage with Mrs. HACKLEY they traded
for the RETTIG farm, six miles west of the city and moved thereon nine years
ago. Mr. Lovatt at once set about to develop the prairie land into a fine farm
and has succeeded admirable, having increased fertility of the land by drainage
fully fifty percent, and divided the 846 acres into fields of one of the very
neatest kept and most productive farms in the county. Mr. Lovatt was elected to
the office of commissioner last fall as a republican and has taken an active
interest in the new court house undertaking, the successful accomplishment of
which we today celebrate.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, September 20, 1895]
BIOGRAPHY
Thomas F. Lovatt, a member of the board of commissioners of Fulton county, and
one of the extensive and most progressive farmers of Indiana, is a native of
Pennsylvania, born at Spruce Hill, Juniata county, in 1845. He is the son of
William H. Lovatt, a native of Staffordshire, England, who was born Feb. 13,
1812, and came to the United States in 1842, settled in Pennsylvania and in the
spring of 1848 removed to Troy, Ohio, and later removed to Piqua, Ohio, and in
1852 he came to Indiana and settled at Peru, where he is now residing. The
mother of Mr. Lovatt was born in Juniata county, Pa., in 1819, and died at Peru,
Ind., Dec. 26, 1877. Mr. Lovatt received a common school education and then
learned the tailor's trade and then the moulder's and machinist's trade, and for
a number of years managed Hackley's foundry and machine works at Peru and in
1879 he purchased the plant and continued the same until 1885, when he sold out
and went to Ashtabula county, Ohio, and engaged in farming. There he had 400
acrs of land and in 1886 made a trade for 806 acres in Fulton county, and to
that he has since added forty acres, making now in one body 846 acres. This land
was for many years known as the Rettig farm and is located six miles southwest
of Rochester. Mr. Lovatt has employed his best effort and used a large sum of
money in the improvement of this farm until now it is one of the best farms in
northern Indiana. Mr. Lovatt also owns a farm of 170 acres located on the Wabash
river, six miles from Peru, where he has valuable holdings. These farms are
supplied with the latest improved machinery known to the science of agriculture
and are arranged for raising and caring for stock. Mr. Lovatt was united in
marriage April 11, 1878, to Mrs. Louisa Hackley, a native of Ohio. The father of
Mrs. Lovatt was Samuel Rector, who was born near Lexington, Ky. He was a soldier
in the war of 1812. He died in 1847 and is buried at Peru. Both the grandfathers
of Mrs. Lovatt were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. To the first marriage of
Mrs. Lovatt are these three children, viz.: Emma, now Mrs. A. Clevell; Cora A.,
now Mrs. H. E. Frick, of Peru, and L. R. Hackley, now a resident of
Indianapolis, and connected with the electric light company of that city.
Politically Mr. Lovatt is a pronounced republican and in 1894 was elected a
commissioner of Fulton county, and during his term as such the new court house
has been erected. He is a member of the Masonic and Pythian fraternities. He is
a man of affairs and fully abreast of the times.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 104-105]
LOVE BROS. HARDWARE [Akron, Indiana]
This was called by the town people the "Old Soldiers Home," as on cold
days in the winter several of the old veterans of the Civil War would congregate
here and relive some of the campaigns of the war.
Located S. side of street at 106 E. Rochester St.
[Thomas Carpenter Family, Walter F. Carpenter, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LOVE & SECOR HARDWARE [Akron, Indiana]
Located S. side of street at 106 E. Rochester St.
[Thomas Carpenter Family, Walter F. Carpenter, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
Opened around 1912 by Daniel Moore Secor and Chet Love In late 1932 Harley Secor
and Daniel Moore [D.M.] Secor became partners in the Secor Hardware store in
Akron, located at the site of the earlier Love & Secor store, and they
operated this until late 1941, when it was closed.
[Daniel Secor Family, Dawn Secor Sheets, Fulton Co Folks, Vol. 2, Willard]
LOVETT, TOM [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Louderback Garage
LOW, CORNELIUS [Perry Township, Miami County]
BIOGRAPHY
Cornelius Low, a leading agriculturist of Perry Township, is a native of
Hunterdon County, New Jersey, and was born August 21, 1818, the fifth of eight
children born to Cornelius and Elizabeth (Baker) Low, both natives of New
Jersey, born respectively September 25, 1783, and October 8, 1784. Benjamin Low,
paternal grandfather of our subject, was of Dutch descent. He served as a
soldier in the Revolutionary War, as did Timothy Baker, subject's maternal
grandfather. Cornelius, son of Benjamin Low, emigrated to Ohio in 1836, where he
lived until his death, which occurred April 21, 1870. His wife died March 8,
1869. Their son, the immediate subject of this sketch, remained at home with
them until he had attained the age of twenty-seven years, receiving a common
school education. April 24, 1845, he was united in marriage with Sophronia
Beard, becoming by her the father of six children, named as follows: Quimby, who
married Emma Stroop, Delpha, Ohio, now Mrs. F. G. Lukens; John, whose wife was
Saloma Longnecker; Alonzo L., who espoused Anger Goss; Bettie, wife of Joseph
Martindale. The deceased child was Maria B., died April 25, 1884. Mr. Low
emigrated from Ohio to this county in 1853, purchasing and settling on the farm
where he now lives. He has met with great success. He is still the proprietor of
83 acres of fine land, and at one time owned about 900 acres, but he has divided
his real estate among his children, starting each in life with a good farm. He
and wife are members of the Baptist Church. Politically, he is a Democrat.
[History of Miami County, Indiana, 1887, Brant & Fuller. pp. 731-732]
LOW, ISAAC V. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Isaac. V. Low, farmer, P.O. Rochester, son of Cornelius, Sr. and Elizabeth Low.
They were born, raised and married in Hunterdon County, N.J. They emigrated to
Wayne County in the spring of 1836. The mother died there March 12, 1869, in the
eighty-fifth year of her age. Father also died there April 21, 1871, in the
eighty-seventh year of his age. Isaac V. was born in Hunterdon County, N.J.,
March 4, 1823, came with his parents to Wayne County, Ohio, when about twelve
years old, where he married Mary Ellen Alexander, August 3, 1852, and in October
of the same year came out to Miami County, where they lived two years, when they
returned to Wayne County, Ohio. But in the fall of 1861 returned to Miami
County, and in the spring of 1876 came to this county and settled at their
present residence. The fruits of this union were nine children, seven of whom
are living: Mary E., born July 4, 1853; Lore S., born November 20, 1855, died
August 8, 1861; Cornelius, born April 17, 1858; Amy C., born July 9, 1860; John
C., born May 3, 1864; Peter W., born October 28, 1866; Isaac V., born January
20, 1871; infant twin with Isaac only lived a short time; Lula M., born
Fevbruary 7, 1874. Those living are all in this county. Mrs. Low is the daughter
of John H. and Mary J. Alexander, residents of Wayne County, Ohio, both natives
of Pennsylvania. She was born in Juniatta County, Penn., April 26, 1834, came
out to Ohio with her parents and married as above stated. Mr. and Mrs. Low are
both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Low has been steward in the
church for about three years, in politics is a Republican. By hard work and good
management he has secured a good and pleasant home two and a half miles
southeast of Rochester.
[T. B. Helm, Fulton County Atlas, A. L. Kingman, 1883, p. 30]
LOWE, J. BRUCE [Fulton County]
BIOGRAPHY
J. Bruce Lowe, a respected citizen of Fulton county, was born in Wayne county,
Ohio, September 3, 1870, and came to Indiana with his father in 1881. They
located in Fulton county where the boy had his education in the public schools.
In 1889 he started work on a farm and remained until he had acquired a
competence. The farm consists of seventy-three acres and here or on the
adjoining farm he has lived for thirty years. He married Miss Nora Black on
March 4, 1891, and four children were born to them: Ruth M., Benjamin I., Elva
Grace and Oneta Irene. Ruth married Raymond Rodgers, a farmer, and they have had
three children, of whom two are living, Rea and Roland. Benjamin married Lucie
Burns and had three children, James, Benjamin J., Jr., living, and Mary,
deceased. Benjamin Lowe is an electrician by vocation. Elva Grace is a graduate
of the high school. During the World war she was employed at Washington as
government stenographer for fourteen months. She is now Mrs. Harry Clary. Oneta
Irene is still attending school. Mr. Lowe's parents were Benjamin and Margaret
(Bruce) Lowe. The father was a farmer and died in 1881. The mother died in 1915.
Both are buried at Wooster, Ohio.
[Henry A. Barnhart, Fulton County History, pp. 233-234, Dayton Historical
Publishing Co., 1923]
LOWMAN, DUSTIN GENE [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From Dustin Gene Lowman]
LOWMAN, J. L. [Rochester, Indiana]
[Adv] Short order restaurant, open day and night. Call and see us. North of
Court House. J. L. LOWMAN Prop.
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, January 16, 1903]
LOWMAN, JAMES [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Letter From James Lowman)
See: Service Men, World War II, Letters (Second Letter From James Lowman)
LOWMAN, SILAS [Liberty Township]
BIOGRAPHY
Silas Lowman, a prominent and well known citizen of Liberty township, was born
in Miami county, Ind., Dec. 29, 1846. He was reared and trained to the duties of
the farm and when he started in life for himself he located in Cass county and
resided there till coming into Fulton in 1872. He bought eighty acres in the
forest and began the battle of life not under the most favorable circumstances.
He has kept at the business of clearing and improving and reaching out for more
land until he owns a farm of twice its original size and a good producer. Mr.
Lowman married April 16, 1868, Mary C., a daughter of Charles McElwee, who
married Catherine Bosh and settled in Cass county very early. Mrs. Lowman died
July 1, 1881, leaving one child, Anna M., wife of E. Zigler, of this county.
Dec. 29, 1881, Mr. Lowman married Margaret E. Senclair, daughter of George
Senclair. The children of this union are: Edwin, Morris, Clara B. and Hughell.
Silas Lowman is a son of Abraham Lowman, born near Dayton, Ohio. He died in
Miami county, Ind., 1882, at seventy years of age. He married Jane B. Hughell,
who was the mother of Ephraim, Huntington county; Susana, wife of E. Woodhouse,
Cass county; Samuel, Marshall county; Elizabeth, deceased, wife of J. M.
Persmete; Joseph, in Kansas; John, in Wabash county; Silas, Ilmary, married
Elias McCowan, and Richard, in Rochester; Nancy Jane Serber, wife of William
Simons, of Mexico, Ind., was reared in this family. The mother of these
children, who still survives, was born April 24, 1811. Our subject's paternal
grandfather was born in Pennsylvania and was a soldier in the war of 1812. He
affiliated with the republican party, as does our subject, who is one of the
party leaders in his township.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
pp. 105-106]
LOWRY, ROBERT S. [Rochester, Indiana]
BIOGRAPHY
Robert S. Lowry, born in Wyandott county, Ohio, Sept. 30, 1847, is a son of
Josiah S. and Jennie Lowry. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. The father
was a son of Josiah Lowry, a native of Scotland. The subject of this sketch is
one of four children. His parents moved into Ohio from Pennsylvania. In Ohio the
mother died and subsequently the father married and by his second marriage
became the father of five children. He died in 1892, aged seventy-three years.
Robert S. Lowry began the battle of life for himself at the age of fifteen
years. His first employment was that of "water boy" wih a railroad
construction crew. Afterward he became a railroad brakeman, and in 1865 went
West, where he aided in construction of the Union Pacific railroad. Then going
to California he followed railroading in the far West for about three years. In
1869 Mr. Lowry returned to Chicago, and for fourteen years thereafter was
employed in the capacity of conductor by the Pennsylvania railroad company,
being a passenger conductor for thirteen years of the time. In 1883 he aided in
the construction of the Vandalia branch from Logansport northward. After that he
followed farming near Kewanna till 1885, in which year he embarked in the
hardware business, in which he has since remained, residing at Kewanna. In 1873
Mr. Lowry and Alice Cushion were united in marriage. Unto the union there have
been born Jennie, Alice and Robert S. Mr. Lowry has always been active as a
democrat in politics. In 1890 he was elected trustee for Union township and
served thereafter as such until August, 1895. He is a Knight Templar Mason, a
progressive and successful business man, and a representative citizen.
[Elia W. Peattie, Fulton County History, National Publishing Co,. Chicago 1896,
p. 106]
NEWS OF THE DAY
A deal was consummated Saturday whereby James Onstott and E. E. Clary became
owners of the livery barn of ex-Auditor R. Lowry.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, April 3, 1905]
TWO GROCERIES SOLD
Two business changes were effected in Rochester today, whereby two groceries
changed hands the Messrs Ott, Hugh, Tom and Bill McMahan buying the business
recently owned by the Three Brothers, and Robert S. Lowry buying the Shannon
Mackey stock and business.
For the past few months it has been reported that the McMahan brothers would
again engage in business here and it was at one time their intention to open
another store here, but Mr. Lou Lough, who bought the store founded by the
McMahan Brothers, of Otto Caple was not pleased with that line of business and
decided to return to his farm near Leiters, and for that reason sold the store.
The Three Brothers will add another member to the firm -- their brother Hugh --
and it will be known in the future as the Four Brothers.
The intention of the new firm is to at first give a sale to reduce the stock of
groceries, and dispose with the entire stock of meats on hand, and will then add
lines of dry goods, notions, and shoes, which they have bought. The McMahan boys
were very successful in their first business venture and built up a very large
trade. Mr. Lowry who purchased the Mackey grocery will turn it over to his son,
Robert who will manage it in the future. Mr. Mackey had a very good business and
his trade was the largest in that section of Rochester. Mr. Lowry will take
possession Wednesday morning. Mr. Mackey will retire from business.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, February 27, 1906]
TWO STORES IN ONE
The firm of R. S. Lowry & Son, which recently purchased the Shannon Mackey
grocery on north Main street, has also purchased the Robert Marshall store in
corner room of the Academy of Music block and after this large room is
rearranged and all tidied up the Mackey store will be moved in with it and the
combined stocks will make one of the largest stores in town. Before Mr. Lowry
was county Auditor he was long a merchant at Kewanna and knows the goods
business so well that he is perfectly at home in the store and he has a lively
second in his son, Robert. The firm will conduct a first-class business, fill
all city orders promptly and give country trade special attention.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, March 19, 1906]
LOY & BRO., S. J. [Rochester, Indiana]
S. J. LOY & BRO., Lock and Gun Smiths. Umbrellas, Clothes-wringers, Carpet
sweepers, Trunks, Valises, Gasoline, Heating and Cooking stoves, promptly
repaired, also key fitting, scissor grinding, etc., and dealers in all kinds of
fire-arms.
Shop, second door south of Baptist church.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 23, 1889]
LOY LOCKSMITH [Rochester, Indiana]
See: Patents and Inventions
William C. Loy taught locksmithing to Clarence F. Hill.
__________
LOCK AND GUNSMITH
J. LOY has opened a Lock and Gunsmith shop in the rear of A. C. Mitchell's
harness shop, and is prepared to do Gunsmithing in all the various branches.
Also key fitting; umbrellas, carpet sweepers, clothes wringers, and gasoline
stoves repaired, grinding of knives and scissors a specialty. Satisfaction
guaranteed. W. C. LOY, Manager.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, July 6, 1892]
[Adv] W. C. Loy, the Lock and Gunsmith, has moved his repair shop over the U.
S. Express office, opposite the Arlington hotel, land is better prepared than
ever to do all kinds of gunsmithing and general repairing. All work guaranteed.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 17, 1900]
NEWS OF THE DAY
An additional feature has just been placed on the new padlock invented by Will
Loy of this city. The lock, which works by a combination, had one fault and that
was that one opening it had to have a light after dark. Now the figures are
raised on the dial so that the lock may be opened by a blind man.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, January 7, 1908]
SEEKS TO ENJOIN
William C. Loy, the well-known inventor of this city, has just taken action
against a New York manufacturer who, Loy claims, is infringing on one of his
patents.
It will be remembered that Mr. Loy patented an ingenious device that fitted into
a lady's kid glove for the purpose of picking up pins, needles, small change,
etc., without the necessity of removing the glove. The invention was one that
the commercial world readily took hold of and Mr. Loy was in a position to
realize a real sum for his patent. The device fit snugly in the end of the
fingers of the glove and did not detract in the least from the comfort or fit of
the same.
Now Mr. Loy learns that a certin New York gentleman is making a device similar
to the one he has patented and will take steps to have such infringement
stopped.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, May 5, 1910]
NEWS OF THE DAY
W. C. Loy has moved his shop one door south of Ward's furniture store, where he
is better prepared to do gunsmithing, key fitting, repairing of gasoline stoves,
and, in fact, everything that needs repairing.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 23, 1911]
NEWS OF THE DAY
W. C. Loy has moved his shop to with Charles Brandt, the plumber, three doors
north of the Blue Drug store, where he is ready to repair your gasoline stoves,
guns, lawn mowers, typewriters, keys of all kinds made, umbrellas repaired and
recovered. Bring me anything, I can fix it.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, May 13, 1911]
SENT FOR LOCK EXPERT WILL LOY
Will Loy of this city arrived home this morning from Elwood, where he was called
Monday for the purpose of looking after a balky safe in a saloon of that city.
When Mr. Loy arrived on the scene he was informed that he was up against a hard
proposition, as there had been about a dozen lock experts there ahead of him who
had given the lock a trial and failed to make it give up its secret. This
statement was nothing new to Mr. Loy, however, and he at once set about to
unravel the mystery. With his vast knowledge of the inner mechanism of the safe
lock the Rochester man bent his ear close to the knob and began turning the lock
slowly front and back. The tumblers clicked as he worked and in a few minutes he
slipped the handle to one side, gave a pull and the door was open. The ease with
which the trick was turned gained Mr. Loy considerable favorable comment from
those who witnessed the proceedings and his reputation for opening balky safes
is made in that section.
[Rochester Sentinel, Tuesday, August 6, 1912]
LOY'S IDEA MEETS WITH APPROVAL
William Loy, the well-known inventor and general repairer of this city, came
into additional fame as an inventor last month, when he sent in an article to
the Popular Mechanics magazine, which dealt with a new invention. The particular
idea advanced by the Rochester man was a device by which even a blind person
could thread a sewing machine needle. It is made of a small piece of tin bent
double, which holds a fine wire, with a hook on the end. The ends of the tin,
which come almost together at one end slips over the needle and when it comes
even with the needle opening the hook slips through. The thread is then placed
in the hook and drawn back through. The simpleness of the device appealed to the
Popular Mechanics people and they notified Mr. Loy that his article had been
accepted. This meant that he got a dollar for his trouble and the next surprise
came when he received a check for $5, accompanied by a letter telling him that
he received second prize.
The honor attached to his receiving this recognition is made greater when the
fact is known that the magazine has a circulation of 315,000, and that there are
thousands of contributors to that section.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, September 5, 1912]
LOY AGAIN CALLED
Bill Loy was called to Argos this morning to open a safe of the Argos Lumber Co.
The case was similar to the one at the Baily Lumber Co., where the safe was
closed after having stood open for so long that the combination was forgotten.
Mr. Loy opened the safe in less than five minutes.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, November 1, 1913]
PRAISES WORK OF WM. LOY
Of the powers of "Bill" Loy, Rochester lock expert, the Argos
Reflector has the following to say:
"Early last week Jacob Martin's office safe at the lumber yard became
locked by accident and Jacob spent most of his spare time for several days
trying to open it, giving his alleged old combination a thorough tryout and
improvising scores of new ones, but all to no avail.
Finally W. A. Loy, a locksmith, of Rochester, was sent for. Mr. Loy came on
Saturday morning and after noting the reputed combination expressed the opinion
it was not correct, but he gave it a trial. Finding it would not
"work," he got busy and within fifteen minutes had the safe open.
"Mr. Loy is an expert is such work as this, his services being in frequent
demand over quite a wide range of territory. A highly developed and special
sense of touch is largely the key to his remarkable success. Mr. Loy has
invented a combination lock of such merit that an eastern automobile firm
recently placed an order for 25,000 of them."
[Rochester Sentinel, Friday, November 7, 1913]
LOY OPENS TWO BALKY SAFES
William Loy, Rochester's well known locksmith, was much in demand in Marshall
county this week, opening two safes that had resisted all the efforts of those
who knew the combinations.
A big office safe, owned by the John Jones Co., of Plymouth, was conquered by
the Rochester man in short order Wednesday, when he was called to that city to
try his hand on the stubborn lock and on Monday, a light safe owned by Frank
Boggs, of Argos, swing open just a few minutes after Loy's delicate touch had
soothed the mechanism.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, March 6, 1919]
OPENS ANOTHER ONE
Bill Loy, of this city, who probably makes more trips to open balky safes than
any other individual in the state, was called to Argos, yesterday afternoon,
where a safe in the Reflector office refused to longer answer to the
combination. Of course Editor Yearrick did not profess to have anything of value
stored in the strong box, but he wanted to be prepared in an emergency should
someone come in with the wherewith for another year's subscription. In a few
minutes after the local man arrived on the scene the safe doors were again swung
open, but up to date nothing has been heard about the imagined subscriber
burdening Editor Yearrick with any coin of the realm.
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, March 21, 1925]
BILL'S AID SOUGHT
William Loy went to Plymouth Wednesday morning to open the safe of the Smoke
House cigar store, the combination having been lost.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, July 15, 1925]
BILL OPENS ANOTHER
When Logansport people get into trouble they have to call on Rochester for
expert service to get them out. For instance Wednesday the big safe at Johnson's
Cafe refused to open when a clerk accidentally turned the tumblers over after
they had not been used for years and although several Logansport experts were
called they could not budge the door. Loy was called and in one-half hour he
swung the door open, gave them a new combination and started home.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 15, 1926]
OPENS BIG SAFE
William Loy opened another safe on Tuesday. Burglars who attempted to get into
the giant Mosler safe in the O'Keefe Lumber Company office at Plymouth, Indiana
on Sunday night tore off the combination, drove the pin through but did not get
in. When Mr. Loy arrived he found that the bottom bolt had been broken off and
dropped down into place. He finally got the other bolts back and they were
forced to turn the big mass of steel and iron completely upside down, hammer on
the door in front of the bolt and eventually it dropped back and the door swung
open.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, Thursday, March 10, 1927]
OPENS LOCKS
During the past week William Loy has been called to Plymouth and to Wabash to
open locks on safes which were stuck. Last Friday Mr. Loy was called to Plymouth
to open a safe in the Lauer Clothing Co. and yesterday to Wabash by the Northern
Indiana Power Co. The total time required to open both locks was one hour and
fifteen minutes.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, July 24, 1930]
BILL LOY OPENS SAFE CONTAINING $50,000
William Loy, local locksmith Saturday opened a safe which had baffled the local
expert safe openers in the east. In the safe stocks, bonds and other valuables
to the extent of $50,000 was found. The safe was one which belonged to L. E.
Jacobs of Richmond, Va., who died several weeks ago without revealing the
combination of the safe to any person. Relatives had many experts try to open
the safe. Finally some relative heard of Mr. Loy. The Richmond relatives sent
the safe by express to a cousin in Alexandria, Indiana. Saturday the Alexandria
man brought the safe here on a truck. After an hour and half work Mr. Loy was
able to solve the combination to the safe.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday April 27, 1931]
LOYAL, INDIANA [Rochester Township]
Or Loyal Station.
Located in Sections 28 and 29, on 400W at approximately 275N at the Erie R.R.
The town was originally called Germany, or Germany Station, but during World War
1, it was renamed Pershing. Loyal is another name for the same place.
__________
TOWN OF GERMANY IS NOW LOYAL, IND.
Germany, Ind., is no longer Germany. It is Loyal, according to word reaching the
SENTINEL, Monday morning. The name was recently removed from the school house
and the action in changing the name of the village was taken after considerable
agitation among the residents of the surrounding community.
[Rochester Sentinel, Monday, August 26, 1918]
"LOST CITIES" NUMEROUS IN INDIANA - - -
. . . . Loyal (formerly Germany) has been hard hit by the gas buggies and also
by the fact that the Erie has closed its station there. . . . .
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, March 22, 1922]
LOYAL GROCERY STORE GOES OUT OF BUSINESS
According to an announcement made today by M. L. Spurlock, the Loyal grocery
store will cease operaton this week. The closing of the business, which has been
in constant operation for a period of more than 40 years, was made necessary
through the settlement of the T. H. Spurlock estate. M. L. Spurlock, who has
operated the grocery for the past 28 years, stated he would still continue the
gas and oil branch of the business but that the grocery business would be
suspended indefinitely.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, March 14, 1934]
LOYAL TELEPHONE EXCHANGE [Rochester Township]
Located approximately 3/4 mile S of Loyal, Indiana, in a residence on the E side
of 400W.
LOCAL PHONE CO. TO BUY LOYAL SYSTEM APRIL 1
The management of the Rochester Telephone Company early today received word from
the Public Service Commission that its petition to purchase the Loyal Telephone
system had been granted. Transfers will be made effective April 1st.
[The News-Sentinel, Rochester, Indiana, Tuesday, March 26, 1929]
LUCERNE, INDIANA [Cass County, Indiana]
CONTRACT FOR CHURCH AT LUCERNE IS GIVEN
The Lucerne Christian church has awarded the contract for its new church
structure to Delph McLaughlin of Royal Center, who plans to start construction
within two weeks.
The new building will be 62 by 37 1/2 feet, with grey asbestos shingle sides and
a roof of green asbestos shingles. It will include a baptistry and furnace.
The cost is expected to be about $6,000.
Gilbert English is in charge of the church's building committee, and others are
Ernest Brandt, Charles Seiders, Mrs. Mary Michael, Mrs. Mary Backus and Miss
Mildred Hall.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, June 21, 1937]
LUCETTA POST OFFICE [Liberty Township]
Located 300E and 950S near Perry School.
The area was called De-Or.
Established in 1892, Charley K. Kepler was postmaster.
Callwell owned the grocery and post office store and 1-1/2 store house on the NE
corner. It was torn down 1920. John Books lived there last. It was caled the
Jack Schindler farm. Elbert Miller bought the farm in 1924.
Building closed around 1905. In 1981 the land was owned by Elbert Miller.
LUCETTA POSTMASTERS [Liberty Township
Charley K. Kepler, Jan 12, 1893. Be--- W. Evans, Apr 30, 1896.
John A. Tatman, N.B. Jan 25, 1898., Dec 30, 1897.
Wm. H. Musselman, July 29, 1898. John O. Cornell, Dec 28, 1900.
Benjamin M. Colwell, Feb 27, 1903. John O. Cornell, Sep 18, 1905.
Dis. Mail to Macy Nov 2, 1905, effective Nov 30, 1905.
[F.C.H.S. Files]
LUCKENBILL, CHARLES [Perry Township, Miami County]
BIOGRAPHY
Charles Luckenbill, an active citizen of Perry Township, is a native of
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, where he was born December 29, 1840, being the
fourth in a family of sixteen children born to Solomon and Mary (Fesler)
Luckenbill. Our subject was reared in his native State, remaining at home with
his parents until he attained the age of twenty years. He received a limited
education. Realizing the necessity of the preservation of our union he enlisted
September 21, 1861, in Company F, 93d Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, as a
private, from which he became Corporal of his company. He served until 1864,
when he veteranized, re-enlisted in the same company and regiment, serving until
December 28, 1864, when he was discharged on account of disability. He was
present and participated in the following important enggements: Williamsburg,
White Oak Swamps, Malvern Hill, in the seven days' fight there; Fairfax Court
House, Antietam, Kelly Fork, Fredericksburg, Salem Church, Gettysburg, Mine Run,
and the Battle of the Wilderness, where he was wounded in two places, while
aiming to fire, a ball passed through his arm and jaw; the latter was a very
severe wound, and it was seven months before he recovered sufficiently to be
discharged from the hospital, and then he suffered greatly for several years. In
1865 he emigrated to Indiana and Miami County, working over a year as a farm
hand, when he purchased land, and has ever since lived in this county. August
16, 1866, his marriage with Margaret Jamison was solemnized, and to their union
five children were born, viz: Lewis A., Ella, Anna, Alonzo and Lorenzo.
February, 1876, Mr. Luckenbill suffered the bereavement of losing his beloved
wife. November, 1886, his marriage with Cynthia A. Harden was celebrated. His
occupation has always been farming, and he has been very successful. He now owns
120 acres of well improved land, which he has accumulated by his own industry
and economy. He and wife are membersof the M. E. Church. In politics he is a
Republican, and he always manifested a good live interest in the political
affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he enjoys the
respect and esteem of all who know him.
[History of Miami County, Indiana, 1887, Brant & Fuller. pp. 732-733]
LUCKENBILL, LORENZO
PURCHASES LUCKENBILL UNDERTAKING BUSINESS
Ora Foster, of the Foster funeral home, this city, today announces he has
purchased the undertaking business and chapel from the heirs of the late Lorenzo
Luckenbill, of Leiters Ford.
In an interview with Mr. Foster, he stated the facilities and services together
with the chapel would still be maintained at Leiters Ford. The local undertaker
and the late Mr. Luckenbill exchanged services for over a period of 20 years and
Mr. Foster is well acquainted throughout Aubbeenaubbee township.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, December 21, 1943]
LUKENS, LINDA [Henry Township]
LINDA LOU LUKENS PICTURE TO APPEAR IN MANY MAGAZINES
The Quaker Oats Co. has announced the selection of three-year-old Linda Lou
Lukens as "The Quaker Oats Girl" and will use her picture in their
national magazine advertising campaign this autumn.
Linda Lou, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Lukens, route 2, this city, was
taken to Chiago Monday where she was posed and photographed. She wore a polka
dot dress with matching ribbons in her hair. Her chin is cupped in her hands,
and she assumed an angelic expression, with a halo above her head.
A beautiful child, with strong character features, she was selected from a large
group to depict the setting decided upon by the company's advertising
representatives. She was recently issued a social security number, and is
believed to be one of the youngest holders of this token in Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, June 27, 1945]
LITTLE NEWCASTLE TWP. GIRL IS BIG TIME MODEL
Fulton county is proud to present a very talented child who is fast becoming
known in magazine advertising all over the country.
Little Linda Lou Lukens, who will celebrate her fourth birthday Dec. 31 is
modeling for children's pictures in many outstanding magazines such as Ladies
Home Journal, McCalls, Look, Pathfinder, Farm Journal and many others.
This is the story of how such a tiny little Miss came to be such a famous young
lady. First of all she is a very attractive and beautiful child with rather long
natural curly blonde hair, long dark eyelashes, unusually large blue eyes and
rosy cheeks. She is 42 inches tall and weighs 40 pounds. She speaks very
distinctly and intelligently and possesses a lovely voice.
When she was 18 months old, she was bitten severely while trying to pet a nice
black and white kitty--a skunk to be specific--and had to submit to treatment
for rabies.
Her picture then appeared in the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel with this unusual
story. Many friends remarked on the clearness and beautiful expression of
features in the picture.
However, nothing was done until two friends of the child's parents, Miss Ruth
Sutherland, Rochester librarian, and Mrs. Ruth Aylesworth, former Rochester
librarian and now librarian in Chicago, definitly insisted that "something
should be done for that child." Mrs. Aylesworth became the inspiration that
prompted Mrs. Lukens to "do something." Linda's picture was sent to a
studio agency in Chicago and they promptly asked the parents to bring her in.
Linda Lou became a hit at the studios and was duly registered at the Chicago
Models' Bureau which has its studios in the Lincoln Tower on Wacker drive in
Chicago. This is the biggest models' bureau in Chicago and is managed by Al and
Connie Seaman.
Her picture was taken in several different poses at Sarra's studio in Chicago.
When a sponsor accepts her, she is called in by the Bureau. She is always in
competition with many other children's pictures. She recently modeled for the
1945 Sears-Roebuck Christmas toy book. She is seated at a child's-size table.
She also modeled for a Quaker oats ad in a lovely big picture with her hands
under her chin, halo over her head, and her big eyes rolled upward with an
angelic expression on her face.
The Chicago Tribune publishes articles every week on "How to Raise
Children." Linda illustrated the article "It's Wrong for Adults to Vie
for Little Child's Affections." She is holding a doll and looking with a
frown up at another lady model.
Linda Lou is the daughter, granddaughter and great-grandcdaughter of school
teachers. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roland Lukens who reside on a farm
in Newcastle township, Fulton county. Mrs. Lukens has been first grade teacher
in Talma school for four years. Her paternal grandfather is Ralph Lukens, Henry
township farmer, also a former school teacher. Mr. and Mrs. Dan Reahard of Roann
are the maternal grandparents, Mr. Reahard being a retired teacher.
When Linda was past two years and she was tested by the Fort Wane Bureau of
Research and found to have an I.Q. of 167 and a mental age of five years and two
months. She is able to read very fluently. Her mother teaches her along with her
first grade work and Linda absorbs it with ease.
When she was called into Sarra's sudio for modeling she was requested to bring
four dresses, pajamas, robe and slippers. Ironically enough one dress was chosen
for all the pictures and it was the polka dot dress which Mrs. Lunens had made
herself.
Linda is also registered at Wolf and Dessauer at Fort Wayne for children's
featured advertising a little later.
Linda's many friends in Akron and Fulton county are expecting her to go far in
the next few years and wish her lots of happiness and success.
[The News-Sentinel, Tuesday, November 6, 1945]
PETITE PULCHRITUDE
* * * * Photo * * * *
This is little Linda Lou Lukens, 4, of route 5, Rochester, who is attaining
nation-wide fame as a child model for nationally advertised goods. Linda's
photos have appeared in several of the leading magazines and newspapers. She is
the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roland Lukens. How do you like her?
[The News-Sentinel, Saturday, November 10, 1945]
__________
Born Dec. 31, 1941 to Mary (Reahard) and Roland Lukens.
Her first job, at age 2-1/2, was as a model to illustrate a May 29, 1945 Chicago
Tribune story.
In May 1945 she received additional publicity by being the youngest person in
the state to have a social security card.
When three years old, Linda was chosen from several hundred candidates to be
Quaker Oats girl for an ad which appeared in Life, Look, Farm Journal, Woman's
Day, Pathfinder, Ladies' Home Journal and McCall's.
She modeled for the 1945 Sears-Roebuck Christmas toy catalog, and also for
Marshall Field store in Chicago.
She modeled for ads in Nation's Business, Newsweek, and Time in 1946.
In 1947 she appeared in Chicago Sunday Tribune Graphis magazines, Parent's
Magazine, Saturday Evening Post, American Home and Popular Photography.
Linda learned to dance from Marjorie V. Halstead and appeared in dance recitals
and other local entertainment with Marjorie's daughter, Barbara Halstead, who
was the same age.
In June 1947 Linda appeared in a commercial color movie, "Miracle in
Paradise Valley," a farm safety film sponsored by Sinclair Oil.
She appeared in Chicago on stage as the princess in "The Magic
Fishbone" with Hal Winters. Then she was the court jester in "The
Magic Whistle," an Irish child in "The Wusby Man," and the title
role in "Hansel and Gretel." She also appeared in another commercial
movie, "A Letter From America."
Linda was chosen by Sears in 1947 as Little Miss Courtesy - a symbol of courtesy
for all Sears retail employees during an extensive courtesy campaign. The
employees had a contest to name her: the name chosen was Penny Polite.
In 1948 she was in ads in Woman's Day and Chicago Sunday Tribune, Parents
Magazine, Life and Look.
Linda made her television deput Oct. 21, 1948, on WBKB, and was on the show for
13 weeks.
In 1951 just before her tenth birthday, Linda won top prize in the Morris B.
Sacks Amateur Hour.
She was National Pork Queen in 1960 and the same year was Miss Rochester and was
runner-up in the Miss Indiana contest.
Linda attended high school at Talma for three years, where she was a cheerleader
and sophomore class president. She attended Rochester High School for her senior
year, was active in Thespians and Honor Society, and was valedictorian of the
class of 1959. She entered Indiana University that fall to major in literature.
In 1960 she was hired by Coca-Cola to be a page at the Republican convention in
Chicago.
In 1948 she appeared in an ad in Look and Colliers.
[John Drudge Family, Gregory Lynn Shireman and Shirley Willard, Fulton Co Folks,
Vol. 1, Willard] [NOTE: See this reference for more details. -WCT]
__________
56 YEARS LATER, PETERSEN STILL
IN CAREER LAUNCHED BY SKUNK
By Ann Allen
Sentinel Correspondent
With only a few exceptions - such as holding a British journalist's card and
dancing professionally in Madrid - Linda Lukens Petersen has seldom veered from
the advertising career a skunk launched her on nearly 56 years ago.
Yes, a skunk.
It's not the normal introduction into the world of modeling and upscale
marketing and Petersen doesn't recommend it. Still, she admits, it worked for
her.
Petersen was an 18-month-old toddler that Friday the 13th in 1943 when she
picked up an animal she thought was a black kitten with a white stripe down its
back. Startled when the creature resisted her attentions, she attempted to drop
it, but the skunk held onto her hand. Her father came to her rescue, killing the
skunk but mangling its head so badly rabies tests were inconclusive. As a series
of painful shots began, the story of the little farm girl was squeezed between
war bulletins in newspapers throughout the Midwest.
Rochester librarians Ruth Sutherland and Ruth Aylesworth, impressed by the
tyke's photogenic charm, told Roland and Mary Lukens that they should "do
something for that child." The Lukens sent their daughter's picture to a
Chicago modeling agency, and before anyone could say "skunk," she was
asked to be the model for a photograph used to illustrate a Chicago Tribune
feature story.
By 1945, Petersen had her own Social Security number and had posed for
advertisements that appeared in Ladies Home Journal, McCalls, Look, Pathfinder
and Farm Journal. In addition to being the little Quaker Oats Girl and Sears
Roebuck's Miss Courtesy, she helped promote Glass Wax, Schwinn bicycles, Milky
Way candy bars, Marshall Fields, Knapp-Monarch and Frigidaire.
Between advertising work, she appeared on the Chicago stage in a variety of
roles and on WENR, WGN and WBKB She made a number of commercial movies,
including one with Kirby Grant, who later thrilled millions of teens as radio's
dashing Sky King.
By then an accomplished tap dancer, Peterson won first place in a Maurice B.
Sach's amateur contest.
"We made a lot of trips to Chicago," her mother recalled, "but it
wasn't too bad because we stayed with my cousin. During the two years Linda
worked for Sears, they planned photo sessions around her schedule."
Petersen remembers little of those years. "Everything is pretty confused in
my mind," she said. "I don't know what I remember and what others have
told me."
"She was just a regular kid," Mary Lukens said. "Ornery as
dirt."
"I couldn't have been too ornery," Petersen said, "or I wouldn't
have been hired back."
"I took her to a club meeting one day," Lukens recalled. "One of
the ladies asked her, 'And what were you doing today?' Linda didn't blink an
eye. She replied, quite truthfully, 'Shoveling manure.'"
Because she lived on a Rochester rural route, had a Mentone telephone number,
attended church in Akron and was a student at Talma before transferring to
Rochester, where she was valedictorian of the class of 1959, Petersen could have
claimed any of those areas as her hometown. Instead, she preferred being what
she was, a farm girl who raised 4-H hogs and pampered her pets. She still enjoys
the farm and returns at every opportunigy. "I would really miss it if Link
(her brother) didn't still live there," she said.
Petersen was named National Pork Queen and first runner-up in the Miss Indiana
contest before graduating from Indiana University in 1963. She interrupted her
master's studies in letters to teach high school English in New York, then
joined the staff of Restaurants and Institutions Magazine.
Eventually, she transferred to London, where she worked for R and I on Fleet
Street. "I had a British journalist's card and got to hang out in pubs that
had been frequented by Shakespeare and Ben Johnson," she said. "That
was pretty cool."
Petersen's son, Christopher, now 28 and a first year medical student at Tulane,
was born while she lived in London.
After moving to Madrid, Petersen worked as a model and as one of the dancers on
a television series titled "Change Your Luck." "I could handle
that because I couldn't understand the language," she said.
After living in Europe for ten years, she returned to Indiana beiefly before
moving to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where her daughter, Victoria, now a
21-year-old senior at Florida State, was born
By then fluent in Spanish, Petersen worked as a translator between modeling
assignments and did graduate work in Asian studies.
The family moved back to Indiana after the Falklands War in 1983 and purchased a
home in Rochester, where Petersen worked as marketing director at Woodlawn
Hospital. Of all her jobs, that one remains her spei\cial favorite. "I love
health care," she said. "Maybe that's the reason both of my children
want to be doctors. It was wonderful to be able to give something back to my own
community."
Now a single mother whose professional name is Lin Lukens de Petersen, she works
as an account executive and does some writing and photography for Gulfshore
Life, an upscale Naples, Fla., publication geared for an over-55 crowd with an
annual income of $200,000 and personal assets of $1 million dollars.
"I work for a magazine that is part of a publishing conglomerate owned by
the Chicago Tribune, the newspaper that gave me my first job," Petersen
said. "My life has come full-circle, which I think is pretty
exciting."
But, no, she hasn't had any more close encounters with a skunk. "Once was
enough," she said.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, January 13, 1999]
LUKENS LAKE [Wabash County]
NEWS OF THE DAY
The new five thousand dollar hotel at Lukens' lake near Roann is about finished
and the building will be ready for the painters within a few days. The hotel is
located on the road, about forty yards east of the old Lukens' homestead.
Situated on a high piece of ground, an excellent view of the lake and
surrounding country is afforded.
[Rochester Sentinel, Wednesday, June 26, 1907]
NEWS OF THE DAY
Wabash Tiomes-Star
G. G. Tate, manager of Friendship Home park, formerly known as Lukens' lake,
announced that the Athens band has been secured for a concert to be played at
the lake on next Sunday afternoon, August 16. Besides the concert there will be
a game of ball between the J.C.B. and the A.O.F. teams. A large number from
Wabash and Roann will spend the day at the resort.
[Rochester Sentinel, Thursday, August 13, 1908]
LYLE, CLYDE [Rochester, Indiana]
See Rochester Joint High School
__________
CLYDE LYLE ELECTED HEAD OF STATE COACHES
At a recent meeting of the Indiana High School Coaches' Association, held in
Indianapolis, Coach Clyde Lyle, of Rochester high school, was elected president
for the ensuing year.
Other officials for the '42-'43 season are Vice Pres, Ray Eddy, of Madison,
Secy-Treas., R. F. Julius, of Indianapolis and Sargeant at Arms, E. J. Eberhart,
of Richmond.
The next meeting of the Indiana coaches is scheduled for May 23rd, 12:15 p.m. at
the Tech gymnasium, at Indianapolis. This is the same date that the State Track
Meet finals is to be held in Indianapolis.
[The News-Sentinel, Wednesday, May 13, 1942]
CLYDE LYLE ORDERED TO ACTIVE DUTY WITH NAVY
Clyde Lyle, basketball coach and instructor of the Rochester high school for the
past eleven years, this morning took his active duty physical examination for
the Navy at Notre Dame, and was ordered to report to Hollywood, Fla., Monday,
August 16, to begin an indoctrination course.
Lyle was commissioned as a Lieutenant, junior grade, in the Navy last May 20 and
was sworn in at Indianapolis on June 11. He has been in non-active duty ever
since, pending successful completion of his physical examination.
Fred Rankin, superintendent of the city schools said today that the City School
Board had granted the coach a leave of absence from his duties at the local high
school. Lyle's family will remain in Rochester for the present.
Lyle came to Rochester in 1932 as a coach and instructor, during which time he
has built up an enviable record with his athletic teams. In 1937 he led the
R.H.S. basketball team to the state finals, and has taken several more to the
semi-final tourneys. As track mentor, he also has given Rochester's teams one of
the finest records in northern Indiana.
[The News-Sentinel, Monday, August 9, 1943]
LIEUT. CLYDE LYLE TO MENTOR ZEBRAS IN '46
Announcement was made Wednesday that Lieut. Clyde Lyle, now on inactive status
from the U. S. Navy, will resume coaching duties at the local high school,
following the Christmas vacation.
Lieut. Lyle, who took leave of absence as coach of the local school to join the
Navy in August 1943, served 15 months on harbor entrance patrol of New York
City, and was later sent to the Pacific where he served as educational officer
on Tobabo of the Philippine group.
Coach Lyle made an enviable rcord in state basketball circles during his tenure
as director of the Zebras. He has been substituting for the past several days
for Coach Harry Ray who has been ill. Ray will assist Lyle in coaching duties in
connection with his teaching assignments. The Zebras, under Coach Ray's
direction were sectional winners last year, but were defeated in regional play.
Coach Lyle accepted direction of local high school athletics, as coach, in 1932,
and has resided here since that time. He is a native of Lawrence, Indiana and a
graduate of Purdue University.
[The News-Sentinel, Thursday, December 20, 1945]
LYON & COMPANY, D. W. [Rochester, Indiana]
Located at 730 Main. [later site of Furst National Bank]
Owned by David W. Lyon, a merchant tailor.
Was advertising in the Rochester Mercury, Nov. 1, 1860: ready-made clothing for
men, boys, and ladies, boots and shoes, hats, caps, and ladies bonnets,
queensware, glassware, groceries "in fact everything that is generally
found in a well-regulated store . . . all of which will be sold cheap and for
ready pay. Tailoring business still continued and cutting done as usual."
Mr. Lyon built and owned the three-story brick building at 8th and Main streets
(for many years the First National Bank was located there), the top floor of
which he leased to the Masonic Lodge for 100 years.
[Terry & Lyon Families, Sara Terry Shirk, Fulton Co. Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
A. K. Plank, Physician, and Dealer in Drugs, Medicines, Oils, Paints,
Dyestuffs, Perfumery, Groceries &c. Store one door north of D. W. Lyon &
Co.
--- Staple & Fancy Dry Goods . . . Ready-Made Clothing . . . Groceries . . .
Hardware . Tailoring . . . D. W. Lyon & Co., Rochester, October 21, 1858.
--- D. W. Lyon & Co., Dealer in Ready-made clothing, Hats, Caps, umbrellas,
canes &c . . . Room on Main St., opposite Post Office, Rochester.
[Rochester Gazette, Thursday, December 9, 1858]
Dry goods, clothing, groceries, hardware, Tailoring. D. W. Lyon & Co.,
Rochester, Indiana.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, January 1, 1859]
D. W. Lyon & Co. Dealers in Fancy Dry Goods, Groceries, Hardware,
Queensware, Ready-made Clothing, Hats, Caps, Umbrellas, canes, &c., &c.
Clothing cut and made to order. Cutting done as usual. Room on Main St.,
opposite Post Ooffice, Rochester, Ind.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, March 1, 1860]
We call attention to the advertisement of D. W. Lyon & Co., of the
Mammoth Building, in today's paper.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, April 7, 1860]
The co-partnership heretofore existing between D. W. Lyon and B. S. Lyon,
doing business under the firm of D. W. Lyon & Co, has this day been
dissolved by mutual consent. The said D. W. Lyon having sold his interest in
said firm to B. S. Lyon . . . D. W. Lyon, B. S. Lyon, Rochester, October 3d,
1861.
[Rochester Mercury, Thursday, October 17, 1861]
One of our oldest and most popular merchants, D. W. Lyon, Esq., has again
started in the Dry Goods, Grocery and general retail business at his old stand
in the Mammoth Bldg. .
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, September 26, 1863]
New Goods! D. W. Lyons & Co., at F. B. Ernsperger's old stand. . . Dry
Goods, Groceries, Boots, Shoes &c. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, September 13, 1866]
LYON & KENDRICK [Rochester, Indiana]
See: First National Bank
See: Rochester, Indiana [Historical Review]
__________
New Firm! Dry Goods, Groceries . . . Clothing . . . Store at Lyon's old
stand, south door, Mammoth Building. Lyon & Kendrick. Rochester, March 31,
1864.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 7, 1864]
Lyon & Kendrick, general merchandise. Store at Lyon's old stand, south
door, Mammoth Bldg., Rochester. Drygoods, clothing, groceries, boots, shoes,
hats, caps and gentlemen's apparel made to order.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday April 23, 1864]
Perry Mehrling keeps the Best Oyster Saloon in Town. Give him a call and we
warrant you well paid. Perry keeps sardines. Saloon over Lyon & Kendrick's
Store.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 2, 1865]
Fresh Oysters Coming from Baltimore to Mehrling's Head Quarters, at his old
Stand in Mammoth Building, second room over Lyons & Kendricks Store. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, December 7, 1865]
Jewell's Picture Gallery, in the Mammoth Building 2d door, over Lyon &
Kendrick's store. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 1, 1866]
Messrs Bruette & Collins would respectfully inform their customers that
they have removed their Barber shop to the large and spacious room in the
Mammoth Building, over Lyon & Kendrick's Dry Goods Store . . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, February 7, 1867]
LYON & KENDRICK ADDITION [Rochester, Indiana]
This sub-division was laid out by David W. Lyon and Francis K. Kendrick.
LYON'S STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
Dr. M. M. Rex, dentist, Office in Mammoth Building, (up stairs) over B. S.
Lyon's store. Dr. Rex would respectfully inform the citizens of Fulton county
and vicinity, that he has taken up his permanent residence in Rochester. . .
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, April 10, 1862]
We learn that B. S. Lyon has sold his stock of goods to F. B. Ernsperger
& S. Keeley, who will continue business at the old stand. Frank is a good
fellow and is a good judge of goods, and will no doubt do well by those who want
anything in his line.
[Rochester Chronicle, Thursday, June 5, 1862]
LYON STOVE & TIN SHOP [Rochester, Indiana]
H. A. Lyon, Stove & Tin Shop, recently owned by J. F. Graham, east side Main
Street, one door south of Holzman's Clothing Store, Rochester.
[Rochester Sentinel, Saturday, February 27, 1864]
LYON'S CLOTHING STORE [Rochester, Indiana]
Christian Hoover Manufacturer & Dealer in all kinds of Furniture.
Undertaking. Ware-room two doors north of Lyon's Clothing Store. Rochester.
April 10, 1858.
[Rochester Gazette, Thursday, December 9, 1858]
LYON-TERRY HOUSE [Rochester, Indiana]
Located SW corner of 9th & Jefferson [902 Jefferson][now 201 W 9th]
Built by David Williams Lyon.
Sara Terry Shirk reports that her mother, Mrs. Frank H. Terry, was born Gertrude
Augusta Lyon, daughter of David Williams Lyon and Sarah McCracken Lyon, in
Rochester in 1866 in the house at 902 Jefferson Street, built by her father.
Mr. and Mrs. Lyon moved west to Rochester, Indiana, in the spring of 1854, and
in 1854-55 built their house at the corner of Jefferson and Pearl streets (now
9th street), then at the south end of town.
It was a well built house, for when my parents put in a furnace in the 1920's, I
remember how the foundation walls of rock and boulders were so thick and solid
it was a job through which to work. In what might be called the cornerstone, we
found a flat, greenish bottle my mother said was a nursing bottle of the 1850's.
I have it now. The beams of the house were thick and heavy walnut.
The many gables of the house are trimmed with acorns which my mother said
Grandfather carved by hand. The formal entrance on Jefferson Street has always
been a thing of beauty to me. Inside was a small hall with a curved stairway of
solid cherry. It was my job to keep the railing polshed. A double living room
was on the north side and a parlor on the south. A large and a small bedroom
were off the living room. A large dining room and kitchen with the "hired
girl's" room off the dining room completed the downstairs.
Upstairs were two bedrooms, each with a garret under the roof. These garrets
interested me because the doors were so narrow one had to turn sideways to enter
and the doors went only to the top of the baseboard, so one had to step over the
baseboard to get into the storage space under the gables. Each bedroom had a
huge closet and off one bedroom, an attic extended the full length of the house.
All rooms of the house were large with 12 foot ceilings and many tall windows.
But with all that it had no inside plumbing, no bath, no refrigeration, no gas,
electricity, telephone, radio, television or auto. Water had to be carried from
the well-pump on the back porch, wood from the woodshed, coal from the coalbin,
and vegetables were kept in the cellar. First there were tallow candles, then
came coal-oil lamps.
Before being remodeled, the house had a woodshed attached to it by a latticed
hallway ending in a large back porch of screen and lattice at the back door. A
large red barn stood on the alley and housed a buggy, a fringed surrey, and our
white horse, Flora. Running from the woodshed to the barn was a high wooden
fence giving privacy to the backyard and to the double grape arbor that led from
the back porch to the out building screened by the usual syringa bush.
On the south side of the house a small handmade picket fence divided the front
and back yards. Tall hickory trees were here where squirrels found plenty of
nuts to hide in our attic - always a mess to clean up in the spring. The
backyard was full of lilac bushes, wild rose bushes, bleeding hearts, lillies of
the valley and elderberry bushes. It was an elegant home of simple style, ruled
by strict discipline and love.
[Terry & Lyon Families, Sara Terry Shirk, Fulton Co. Folks, Vol. 1, Willard]
The present owners, George S. and Hazel (Putnam) Jones, report that they have reason to believe that this is the oldest house in Rochester.