Genevieve Catherine Rash Mincks, 1924-2010

Tributes.com - 11 November 2010

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  Genevieve Catherine Mincks was born June 29, 1924 to Wayne Ora Rash and Mary Pearl Rotisky Rash in Jerome, Iowa. She passed away at the Wayne County Hospital in Corydon, Iowa on November 4, 2010, at the age of 86 years, 5 months and 4 days. 
  Genevieve attended school through the 10th grade in Jerome, and graduated from Seymour High School in 1943. 
  On April 24, 1943 she was united in marriage to George Richard Mincks of Jerome. A daughter Mary Catherine and son Steven Richard were born to this union. Together she and Richard farmed and raised livestock for 67 years in Wayne and Appanoose counties. Genevieve also worked in Steve’s clothing store, The Executive Edition, in Centerville for several years. 
  Genevieve was a member of the Seymour United Methodist Church, teaching the Glad Hand Sunday School class for 50 years. She was active in the church, serving as UMW President, Memorial Committee Treasurer, Methodist Youth Fellowship Sponsor, and sang in the church choir. 
  Genevieve had many hobbies including sewing, quilting, crocheting, gardening and canning. She enjoyed square dancing, traveling to Colorado, camping and following the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) rodeo series. 
  Genevieve was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Mary Rash, and brother-in-laws Eugene Darrah and Don Robinson. She is survived by husband Richard; daughter Mary and husband Gary of Bella Vista, Arkansas; son Steven Mincks and Bill Williams of Seymour; grandsons Duane Couchman, Troy and wife Melanie; great-grandson Keith Couchman; sisters Deloris Darrah and Rowena Robinson; brother-in-law William Mincks and wife Donna; nieces Darla Wells and husband Josh, Dian Rider and husband Todd, Jane Turner and husband Brian, and Susan Pitcher; nephew Todd Robinson; great-nice Laura Turner; great nephews Nathan Wells and wife Andrea, Nolan Wells, Seth Wells and Andrew Turner. 
  Memorial contributions may be made to the Seymour United Methodist Church. 
  VISITATION: Tuesday, November 9, 2010, 6:00-8:00 PM, Randolph Funeral Home, Seymour, IA 52590
  FUNERAL SERVICE: Wednesday, November 10, 2010, 10:30 AM, United Methodist Church, Seymour, IA 52590

McElvains Make "Big Change"

The Seymour Herald - 4 November 2010

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  I was reared on a Centennial Farm. It was several years after I moved from it that it earned that prestigious designation.  My brother Paul McElvain and his wife Helen were living there then.  The year was 1991. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship recognized at that time the family of McElvain had owned and been stewards of Iowa land for over 100 years.

  In 1868 our great grandfather W. D. McElvain and his family left Illinois and bought land and settled in Appanoose County, Iowa. There they spent their remaining years. Part of W. D.'s land holdings passed down through three generations, finally to Paul.

  Paul told me he always enjoyed being a farmer and even though he had a small farm, by today's standards, he was a good farmer. These headlines attest to that fact:

Local Hog Producers Have Good Year

[The above headline accompanied a story and picture 

of Paul's family in 1954.]

  He and Helen successfully reared five children. He loved spending his years in the country on his farm. He often expressed his desire to never leave the farm, just as his grandfather had wished.

  But, the years have a way of taking a toil. Arthritis and severe macular degeneration have caused a once strong, active man to become unable to do the farming and even caused the sale of their car, as neither Paul nor Helen can drive now.

  So what can retired farmers do when time and health issues have caught up with them: When it is no longer safe or wise to remain on an isolated farm?

  Recently Paul and Helen put their house on the market after agreeing to move into town to an assisted living development.

  Try to imagine their feelings when family members reasoned with them that changes must be made. Helen was more in favor of change. She felt she had lived through enough winters out there in that isolated rural area. But Paul still didn't want to make the big change. A daughter, Bonnie, from Arizona has made many dozens of trips to visit and help them. She did it willingly, but still it caused her to give up some of her usual activities and time with her husband and friends there in Arizona.

  Paul did finally agree to move. He really resigned himself to the inevitable and to Helen's wishes.

  Bonnie has kept me apprised of the situation there in Iowa. She was there when the move was made from the farm to town September 28 of this year. They are settled in a small apartment. And, she reports they are loving it! The food is good, there are activities, transportation can be arranged for doctor appoint-ments, medications are delivered and other conveniences are provided. They even went to church, a usual Sunday occurrence for them, their first Sunday in their new surroundings. A first cousin once removed is an ordained minister. She comes to this development and conducts a church service. She not only is a relative, but is also a friend, having grown up with Paul and Helen's children in the same neighborhood.

  It seems these farmers have adjusted to this uprooting very quickly. Ever since I've been here at Wind Crest I've wished they were in a similar place. Their's is much smaller, with only 40 apartments, but I believe it is the right place for them.

  It saddens me that soon the family's claim to the title of Centennial Farm will be no more, but I know it has to be. How fortunate my brothers and I were to be reared on that precious and wholesome land. I am so thankful Paul and Helen have found a safe and happy place now.

Marge Inman - October 7, 2010

Samuel C. Van Ness, 1819-1897

The History of Appanoose County, Iowa

Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1878

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  Vanness, S. C., farmer and stock-grower, Sec. 16, P.O. Seymour; born in Lycoming Co., Penn., in 1819; his father was of Holland descent, and his mother of English; they were married in New Jersey; his father was a blacksmith;p moved to Pennsylvania; thence to Columbiana Co., Ohio; were early settlers, and so poor that they wore wooden shoes; thence to Trumbull Co., Ohio; returned to Pennsylvania, where his parents died--his father at the age of 86 years, his mother at 84. In December, 1842, he married Miss Mary Cronk; she was born in Trumbull Co., Ohio (afterwards Mahoning Co.), in 1823; her parent, Isaac C. and Margaret (nee Deal), were born in Pennsylvania; they moved to Ohio, where her father died, the family moving to Indiana. In 1857, came to this county; owns 340 acres of land, valued at $30 per acre. Have five children living, lost one--Madison M.,  born in 1845, died in May, 1848; Addison M., born in 1851; Canfield B., in 1853; William C., in 1855; Peter M., in 1856, and Abraham L., in 1863. The father of Mrs. Vanness, Isaac Cronk, was a lawyer; admitted to the bar, and practiced in Mahoning Co., Ohio; a highly educated man; for many years taught school, but from ill-health left it for other pursuits. Republican; have been members of the Baptist Church in Livingston for twenty-five years.

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  Note: Samuel C. and Mary (Cronk) Van Ness are buried in the Wright-Thommason Cemetery in Vermillion Township, Appanoose County, Iowa.

Houx-Kinney Wedding - 23 October 1902

The Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette - 18 October 1902

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  Invitations have been received here by friends and relatives to the marriage of former resident and highly respected citizen, Mr. John S. Houx, which will take place October 23, at 11 o'clock, Jerome, Iowa. The bride, Miss Effie Kinney, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse G. Kinney. Mr. Kinney is one of the most prominent and wealthiest of the farmers near Jerome. The groom, Mr. Houx, is well known and liked in Cedar Rapids, where he was born and lived until recently. He was for many years a newsdealer here, and is now established as a confectioner in Colorado City, Col. After his wedding he will go west immediately with his bride to their future home.

David Lawrence Is Heart Attack Victim

Daily Iowegian - 5 August 1963

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  David Lawrence, evangelist, who was 68, died suddenly in the St. Joseph Hospital Saturday, August 3, 1963, at 6:15 p.m. He had been ill for two days.

  Last Wednesday evening a newsman had talked with David at his home at 205 South Twelfth street during an interview with his mother-in-law, Mrs. Anna Norris, who was 100 years old Saturday. At that time he told of feeling indisposed but thought it was a case of indigestion. He had, however, had a cardiograph made.

  Evangelist Lawrence was born in Treherbert, Wales, July 22, 1895, and was the son of David John and Gwen Griffith Lawrence.

  During World War I he served in the Royal Medical Corps with the British Army. For 10 years following the war he served with a group of Christian Evangelists known as the "Pilgrim Preachers," who toured the Isles.

  Mr. Lawrence came to the United States in 1917, returned to Wales in 1928, then came back to the States in 1929.

  On February 17, 1929, he was united in marriage with Edna Norris in Numa, Iowa. They have lived in Centerville for 30 years.

  During World War II he worked in Christian canteens for service men in various cities of the United States. From 1947 through 1950 he led a group of young men  known as "The Gospel Messengers on Tour." He had been a minister for 49 years and during that time served the Gospel Chapel in Centerville until his passing.

  He had been in charge of a radio program "The Gospel Hour," over KCOG for 14 1/2 years.

  Preceding him in death are his parents, one sister and one brother. Survivors include his widow, two sisters, Miss Margaret Lawrence and Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Rees, of Philadelphia, Pa.; and one brother, Dr. Tom Lawrence of Hartford, Conn.

  The body is at the Miller-Wehrle Funeral Home where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 7, at 2 p.m. Dave Horn of Denver, Colo., and John Horn of Atchison, Kans., will officiate.

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Evangelist David Lawrence, 1895-1963

History of Appanoose County, Iowa

[Dallas, TX: Taylor Publishing Company, 1986]

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  Evangelist David Lawrence was born July 22, 1895, in Treherbet, South Wales, the son of David John and Gwendolyn Griffiths Lawrence. He was one of our children -- two sisters, Margaret Lawrence and Elizabeth Ann Rees, and a brother, Dr. Tom Lawrence.

  He was married to Frances Edna Norris on February 17, 1929, at Numa, Ia.

  During World War I, he served in the Royal Medical Corps with the British Army. For ten years following the war, he served with a group of Christian Evangelists known as The Pilgrim Preachers, who toured the British Isles.

  Mr. Lawrence came to the United States in 1927, then returned to Wales in 1928, then came back to the states in 1929, the year he was married to Miss Norris.

  Mr. Lawrence said two of the most memorable moments in his life was when he was converted to God in 1914, in Wales, and when he became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1933 in Appanoose County, Iowa. He was always proud and happy to be a citizen of the United States.

  During World War II, he worked in Christian canteens for service men in various cities of the United States. From 1947 through 1950, he led a group of young Christian men known as "Gospel Messengers on Tour." He had been a minister for 49 years, and during that time served the Gospel Chapel in Centerville, Iowa, until his death.

  He had been in charge of a radio program, "Gospel Tidings" over radio station KCOG since its inception in 1949.

  David Lawrence died August 3, 1963, and was buried in Jerome, Iowa, cemetery.

Celebrate Golden Wedding Anniversary

The Seymour Herald - 17 February 1944

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  Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Loofburrow of Promise City celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Sunday, Feb. 13th in their home in Promise City.

  Mr. Loofburrow was born in Wayne county and Mrs. Loofburrow, the former Mish Wales, was born 1/4 mile east of Philadelphia church and lived there until her marriage on Feb. 13, 1894. Four sons were born to this union who are Orval of Sedalia, Mo.; Forest of Long Beach, Cal.; Kenneth of Quincy, Ill.; and Elvin of the U.S. Navy.

  The sons and their families were unable to be present on this occasion, but several niece and nephews and their families came and served a lovely dinner. Those present were: Clyde Close and wife and son Teddy; Mr. and Mrs. Ray Sharp, Mr. and Mrs. Davie Workman, Mrs. Essie Loofburrow, Mr. and Mrs. Muriel Loofburrow, Mr. and Mrs. Forest Workman and Mr. and Mrs. Earnest Sharp and sons. Other callers during the day were: Mrs. Richard McIntire, Mrs. Effie Spence, Miss Lessie Morris, Mrs. Clarice McMurry, Mrs. Lulu Long, Mr. and Mrs. Coe Laverty, Miss Ruth Lee and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Coats. They received a number of nice presents besides their son Kenneth, sent a large bouquet of red carnations, Mr. and Mrs. Davie Workman sweet peas, and Mr. and Mrs. Forrest Workman's beautiful potted cyclamen and carnations and snap-dragons from friends in Promise City of which they were very appreciative. Mrs. Earnest Sharp and Mrs. Helen Loofburrow each brought a lovely cake which deserved mention.

  This occasion was also the 36th birthday of their youngest son, Elvin who is an officer in the Navy and is on a ship on the west coast which will sail about March the 1st. All present enjoyed the day and left wishing them many more wedding anniversaries.

JEROME - 20 April 1944

The Seymour Herald - 20 April 1944

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  Mrs. J. W. Day of Centerville spent the weekend with her daughter, Mrs. J. G. Morris and family.

  Mr. and Mrs. Dougal Forsyth of Mystic spent Sunday at the Wm. Hefner home.

  Billy Mincks spent Friday at home as the Centerville school had one day for Easter vacation. He returned to Centerville for Saturday where he is employed in the Parker Clothing Store.

  Miss Audrey Morjur of Plano spent Easter Sunday at the J. W. Workman home.

  Richard McElvain of the U.S. Navy stationed in Lawrence, Kans., was a weekend visitor with his mother, Mrs. Cecil McElvain and family.

  Mrs. Roy Glenn and Miss Susie Sidles attended the silent auction sale in Promise City on Friday night.

  Mrs. Effie Houx of Cedar Rapids furnished a flower for the Methodist church on Easter Sunday in memory of her mother, Mrs. J. G. Kinney.

  Mr. and Mrs. D. E. Moore and daughters, Helen Lu and Mary Anna, moved to Seymour last Thursday. Mrs. Anna Snodgrass will occupy the house they have just vacated.

  Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Moore and small son of Davenport, have spent the past week at the Carl Hamm home and with other relatives.

  Mrs. Veil returned to her home in Selby after spending the winter at the home of her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Hawkins. Mrs. Hawkins accompanied her to Des Moines by bus and returned the next day.

  Billy Hawkins of Seymour is sick at the home of his grandfather here.

  Miss Margaret Felkner of Des Moines spent the weekend at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Felkner.

  The Easter service and program was well attended in spite of it being a rainy Easter.

JEROME - 6 April 1944

The Seymour Herald - 6 April 1944

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  The township trustees are meeting today (Monday) in the Miner's Hall.

  Wayne Moore of the U.S. Army is home for a 15 day furlough. He is the son of D. E. Moore.

  Shirley Carpenter returned to her home in Promise City last Wednesday after spending several days with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Glenn.

  W. R. Hefner and family and Howard Hart attended the McMurry funeral in Promise City on Sunday afternoon.

  Burdette Workman who is working in the Tri-Cities spent the week end at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Workman.

  L. J.Norris is up and about after a long illness following the flu.

  The family night supper held at the Methodist church on Friday night was largely attended. Rev. Greenwood of the Methodist church of Centerville gave a very inspiring address. His five children furnished music.

  The Roy Glenn family spent Sunday at the Lloyd Stevens home near Seymour. They were accompanied by their daughter, Mrs. Iris Homes.

  Wm. Henderson was hauling phosphate from Moulton last week.

  W. R. Hefner had their house wired for electricity last week and were connected to the I.S.U. line that passes their home on last Friday. It is reported the I.S.U. will soon furnish other homes with electricity.

  Mrs. Eleanor Carpenter and daughter, Shirley, were supper guests at the parental Roy Glenn home, Sunday.

  Officials from the Miners' Union office in Albia were in Jerome on Friday looking after the Miner's Hall here. Since it is no longer used it has been sold to Mike Ponsetto.

  Joe Nichols has gone to Kansas City to seek employment.

  Rudolph Buyans received word from their son "Rudy" last week. It was written December 5 and arrived here March 27. He is in prison in Germany. He reported everything all right and all packages sent from here had been received. He said with that and the Red Cross packages received, he was having all he needed. He is working on construction work.

  Phyllis, Betty, and Mary Margaret Hawkins of Seymour attended the family night supper here on Friday night and spent the weekend at the Wm. Hawkins home.

JEROME - 30 March 1944

The Seymour Herald - 30 March 1944

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  Mrs. Maurine Streepy of Udell spent last week with her sister, Miss Susie Sidles.

  John Padovan of Numa was a business caller here on Wednesday.

  Mrs. Iris Holmes was visiting on Sunday at the Roy Glenn home.

  Mr. and Mrs. Joe Nichols and two children, Ida and Sharon Kay, spent Sunday in Confidence with Mrs. Nichols' parents, Mr. and Mrs. Holmes.

  Howard Hart spent Sunday with his daughter Mrs. W. R. Hefner and family.

  Mrs. Wm. Hefner, Miss Susie Sidles and Mrs. Maurine Streepy attended the five cent dinner at the Methodist church in Mystic last Thursday.

  Shirley Carpenter of Promise City is visiting her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Glenn.

  The W.S.C.S. meets this Thursday for an all day meeting with a co-operative dinner.

  Mr. and Mrs. Ray Evans have as their guests their daughter and husband from Chicago to spend the week.

  Mrs. Roy Glenn and Carol and Shirley Carpenter spent Sunday at the Rowe home near Sewal.

  Friday night, March 31, the family night service with a co-operative supper at 7 o'clock will be held at the Methodist church. Rev. Gatewood, pastor of the Methodist church in Centerville, will be the guest speaker following the supper hour.

  Several families from here attended the farm bureau box social in Centerville last Tuesday evening the proceeds were given to the Red Cross.

JEROME - 23 March 1944

The Seymour Herald - 23 March 1944

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  Mr. and Mrs. G. D. Mincks and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mincks attended the quarterly conference in Mystic last Tuesday night.

  Peter Sidles and Kenneth Owen attended a meeting for school improvement held in Chariton last Tuesday.

  W. R. Hefner and Kenneth Owen were elected to the school board at last Monday's election. They were re-elected as they had served before.

  Miss Cadd Hawkins, R.N., returned from duties in the St. Joseph hospital on Friday.

  Joe and Neil Nichols returned Thursday from Washington state where they had been working on a government project for a few weeks.

  In spite of the rainy evening 45 attended the Lincoln township Farm Bureau social held in the Jerome school on Tuesday evening. Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Harris and Mr. and Mrs. Everett Hornady were host and hostess and served refreshments.

  John Morris was absent from school last week with the measles.

  Mrs. J. G. Morris spent Saturday and Sunday in Centerville with her mother Mrs. John Day.

  The school children are collecting paper and rags for the scrap drive.

  The Red Cross drive has not yet been completed in this community.

  L. J. Norris is able to be about the house after a recent illness.

JEROME - 16 March 1944

The Seymour Herald - 16 March 1944

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  Mrs. B. J. Owen moved to Centerville last Wednesday to the new home she purchased on 12th Street.

  Richard McElvain of the U.S. Navy stationed in Lawrence, Kan., spent the weekend of March 5th at home.

  The nutrition meeting of the farm  bureau held at the school house on last Wednesday evening was largely attended.

  The St. Patrick Day tea given by the W.S.C.S. last Thursday was well attended. A splendid program was given in charge of Mrs. Forrest Workman and Mrs. James Felkner, Mattie Arbogast of Numa was a guest speaker.

  Harold Hart of the U.S. Navy left last Tuesday night for Chicago after several days spent here. He is a musician, 1/c and will be stationed in Chicago for awhile.

  Mrs. Cameron, who makes her home with the Ray Evans family, has been quite poorly. Her knee was injured from a fall.

  L. J. Norris has been bedfast for several days but is some improved. He had flu and is slow recovering.

  Miss Susie Sidles and Mrs. Ralph Radosovich are collecting Red Cross funds in Jerome.

Owen Sedgwick, 1879-1961

Daily Iowegian - 18 September 1961

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  Owen Sedgwick, 82, of Davenport and formerly of this community passed away Saturday at Davenport.

  Mr. Sedgwick was born Jan. 1, 1879 at Walnut City, Iowa, the son of B. F. and Catherine Sedgwick. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian.

  Surviving are two daughters, Kathryn Hymes of Davenport and Vera Stephenson of Burlington, four sons, Carol and Winifred of Davenport, Harold of Des Moines and Forrest of Shoup, Idaho; 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

  Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Hill and Fredricks Mortuary in Davenport. Graveside services will be held at the Jerome Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, with the Rev. Orval Walker officiating. For further information friends may call the Johnson Funeral Home.\

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Gary Craver of Centerville IA.

JEROME - 2 March 1944

The Seymour Herald - 9 March 1944

[Article Crowded out 2 March]

  Miss Cadd Hawkins spent a few days in Seymour last week with Miss Laura Henderson.

  Donald Owen was in Centerville Tuesday night attending a farewell reception given him by the Junior college there. He begins school in Ames, March 1.

  The W.S.C.S. is lunching a sale at Carl Sticklers today (Monday).

  Mrs. F. D. Jones and son Frankie of Ottumwa spent the weekend at the home of Mrs. Ida Mincks. They were accompanied home Sunday by Mrs. Jones' father, B. A. Morrison.

  The family night supper and preaching service at the Methodist church Friday night was largely attended and very much enjoyed. Mr. and Mrs. Ira Williamson of Mystic and former residents here accompanied Rev. and Mrs. Gonzales to this service also Mrs. Bradewell and Mrs. Smallwood of Mystic were guests and furnished music.

  Mrs. Neil Nichols returned from the St. Joseph hospital in Centerville on Thursday where she had been for a few days with her small baby that needed hospital care.

  Mrs. John Day of Centerville spent the weekend with her daughter Mrs. J. G. Morris and family.

  Burdette Workman of Davenport spent the weekend with his parents Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Workman.

JEROME - 24 February 1944

The Seymour Herald - 24 February 1944

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  Harold Hart of the U.S. Navy is spending several days with his father, Howard Hart and with his sister, Mrs. W. R. Hefner and family. He has been on a battle ship on the west coast for many months but will report for duty in Chicago at the end of his leave here.

  Mrs. S. J. Owen returned Wednesday from Seymour where she has spent several days at the Elvin Owen home. Her son Donald is spending this week at home before reporting for duty at Ames where he will attend school under the V-12 program. Until now he has been a student in the Jr. College at Centerville.

  Paul Felkner goes to Camp Dodge on Tuesday where he reports for duty in the Army Air Corps.

  Miss Cadd Hawkins left Saturday for professional duty in the St. Joseph Hospital in Centerville.

  On February 10th the W.S.C.S. of the Methodist church served a one o'clock luncheon. In spite of the snow storm it was fairly well attended and a number of dinners were sent out to those who could not attend. Mrs. W. R. Hefner and Mrs. Forrest Workman were in charge. Their decorations were very beautiful and in keeping with Valentine Day.

  On February 17 the W.S.C.S. served lunch at the Jack Miller sale on the Heaton farm. It was another snow storm and the sale was not largely attended but their profit was $17.00.

  Rev. and Mrs. Gonzales of Mystic were supper guests on Wednesday of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mincks. They spent much of the afternoon making calls.

  Mr. and Mrs. Ed Holmes and son Larry spent Sunday at the Roy Glenn home.

  A. F. Hawkins has recently been appointed secretary of the Jerome school. Mrs. Marion Wailes had been acting secretary this school year until now.

  Mrs. G. D. Mincks and Mrs. Merle Loofbourrow will be hostess for the Coop-dinner of the W.S.C.S. on February 24th. Mrs. J. W. Workman and Mrs. Harry Stark have charge of the program.

  The Ray Smith family of Jefferson spent Sunday at the G. D. Mincks home. They are leaving soon to make their home in Montana. They formerly lived in this community.

JEROME - 17 February 1944

The Seymour Herald - 17 February 1944

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  Leonard Ponsetto of the U.S. Army went to Burlington on Thursday to visit his sister a few days before returning to the camp at Lincoln, Nebr.

  Mrs. W. R. Hefner spent last week in Des Moines at the Mervin Burkett home and made acquaintance with their new son Billy. Mrs. Burkett is the former Lena Hefner.

  Mr. and Mrs. Elvin Owen of Seymour spent Sunday with Mrs. S. J. Owen.

  Rev. and Mrs. M. R. Gonzalez of Mystic visited in this vicinity last Friday making calls on a number of families.

  Mrs. Wm. Hefner and Miss Susie R. Sidles attended the five cent dinner at the Methodist church in Mystic last Thursday and Mrs. Hefner visited with her brothers, Donald and Dougal Forsythe.

Eliza Jane Jones Printy, 1862-1944

The Seymour Herald - 3 February 1944

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  Eliza Jane Jones, eldest daughter of Johnathan and Jane Sales Jones was born April 5, 1862 near Plano, Iowa and passed away after a lingering illness at her home in Promise City at the age of 81 years, 8 months and 16 days.

  She had fallen on February 17, 1943, and suffered a broken hip which resulted in her death. She was married to James C. Printy on December 8, 1889 and they lived at their farm home in Independence township until his death which occurred on March 12, 1912. She then came and lived with her parents until she came to Promise City to make her home in the year of 1922 and has since resided here until her death. She is survived by five sisters and three brothers, Mrs. Matilda Peppers of Scotts Bluff, Nebr., Mrs. Ella Mosby of Promise City, Mrs. Belle Freeman of Katy, Texas, Mrs. Rose Southard of Fort Morgan, Colo., Mrs. Ethel Inskeep of Centerville, and the brothers, John, Bluford, and Green, who all reside in this community.

  She was preceded in death by her parents, and one sister, Mrs. Sana Peppers, who passed away in Katy, Texas.

  It can be said of her: she has fought a great fight and has finished the work that the Master sent her to do and there is therefore laid up for her, a crown of righteousness which the Lord shall give to all who love his appearance.

  Blessed are the dead, who die in the Lord, from henceforth, Ay say the spirit, that they may rest from their labours and their works do follow them.

JEROME - 3 February 1944

The Seymour Herald - 3 February 1944

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  Carl Kinney returned the first of the week from Cedar Rapids and Marshalltown where he had visited his sisters, Mrs. Effie Houx and Mrs. Guthrie Norris.

  Mrs. W. R. Hefner and Mrs. Kenneth Owen attended the bond sale in Centerville, Saturday afternoon.

  The family night supper at the Methodist church on Friday night was well attended and greatly enjoyed by all.

  Burdette Workman of Davenport spent the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Workman.

  Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hefner and Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Hefner attended the funeral of Mrs. Donald Forsythe in Mystic last Thursday afternoon. Also Mr. and Mrs. John Cathcart and Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Cathcart, Mrs. Forsythe and Mrs. Leslie Cathcart were sisters.

  Leonard Ponsetto of the U.S. Air Corps is spending a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Ponsetto.

  Kenneth Owen returned from Chicago last Tuesday. He had accompanied a shipment of cattle there on Sunday.

  Joe Buyan from Camp Leonard Wood, Mo., is spending a 12 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Buyan.

  Miss Cadd Hawkins, Mrs. A. F. Hawkins and Miss Susie Sidles spent January 25th with Mrs. Emma Ogle in Centerville. It was her 78th birthday.

  Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mincks visited Sunday with Mrs. Ida Mincks and Billy who was home from Centerville for the day.

  Mr. and Mrs. Robet Forsythe of Rockwell were guests Sunday at the Wm. Hefner home. Mr. Forsythe is Mrs. Hefner's brother.

JEROME - 27 January 1944

The Seymour Herald - 27 January 1944

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  The Roy Glenn family spent Sunday with their daughter, Mrs. Holmes near Centerville. Mrs. Glenn's knee, injured from a fall, is improved but she still suffers a great deal.

  Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hefner and son, W. R. Hefner, spent Sunday p.m. at the Donald Forsythe home in Mystic. Mrs. Forsythe is ill with a heart ailment.

  Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. Jones and son Frankee, of Ottumwa spent Sunday at the B. A. Morrison home.

  Mr. and Mrs. Forest Workman spent Sunday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lowe in Numa.

  Miss Susie Sidles and Mrs. G. D. Mincks accompanied Rev. and Mrs. Gonzolez of Mystic to Des Moines on Wednesday to attend the Bishop's Crusade. 1400 people were present during the day.

  Mrs. W. E. Hawkins and children of Seymour spent Sunday at the Wm. Hawkins home here.

  Mr. and Mrs. C. Carpenter and daughter Shirley, came from Baraboo, Wisc., last Thursday and are spending a few days at the Roy Glenn home. Mrs. Carpenter was the former Eleanor Glenn.

  The Methodist church will have a cooperative supper followed by a preaching service on Friday evening, Jan. 28 at seven o'clock.

  Mrs. Wm. and W. R. Hefner spent last Friday with Mrs. Wm. Oughten in Centerville.

  Miss Joan Morris spent the past weekend with her sister, Mrs. Merrill Condra near Numa. 

JEROME - 20 January 1944

The Seymour Herald - 20 January 1944

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  Richard Owen of the U.S. Navy and Mrs. Owen of Glenwood have been spending several days with Mrs. S. J. Owen and Kenneth and family.

  The Farm Bureau of this community held a hard time party at the Jerome school house Thursday evening. There was a large crowd and a very enjoyable evening was spent playing games and visiting together. Refreshments of corn bread and beans were served.

  Walter Warnick has purchased the S. Burns property and expects to live in it. The B. A. Morrison family who have occupied it for several months will vacate about March 1.

  Jr. King of the U.S. Army has been spending a ten day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lester King, south of town.

  Mrs. Roy Glenn has been bedfast for the last ten days with an injured knee caused from a fall. The ligaments are torn and it will be some time bfore she is fully recovered. Her daughter Mrs. Iris Holmes is caring for her.

  Born to Mr. and Mrs. Joe Nichols in the Corydon hospital on Jan. 13 a daughter, Sharon Kay.

JEROME - 6 January 1944

The Seymour Herald - 6 January 1944

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  A very interesting watch night service was held at the Methodist church on New Year's Eve.

  The school will open again Jan. 3, after a week's vacation.

  Billy Mincks returned to Centerville Sunday to resume work in the Centerville High School after a week at home.

  Miss Barbara Holland returns Thursday from Burlington, where she had spent a week with friends.

  Phyllis, Betty, Mary Margaret, and Billy Hawkins of Seymour spent the past week at the home of their grandfather, Wm. Hawkins.

  Mrs. John Day, of Promise City, but who is spending the winter in Centerville, spent the holiday vacation with her daughter, Mrs. J. G. Morris and family.

  Word has been received from Harry Sidles who recently entered army service. He is at Camp Blanding, Fla. Without knowing he was there he met Wayne Moore of Jerome who has been there several months.

  The W.S.C.S. met for an all day co-op dinner last Thursday. It was well attended. The hostess were: Mrs. J. G. Morris and Mrs. Peter Sidles, Mrs. Lyda Bollman had charge of devotions and Mrs. J. G. Morris the lesson on Christmas literature.

Lloyd William Norris, 1911-1967

Unionville Republican [MO] - May 1967

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  Lloyd W. Norris, Unionville, Missouri, age 56 years and 24 days, passed away at his home in Unionville, Missouri Saturday, May 27, 1967.

  He was born in Seymour, Iowa May 3, 1911, and was the son of Charles G. and Martha Louisa Elliott Norris, who have preceded him in death.

  On December 20, 1937, he was united in marriage to Edith L. Adamson, at Plattsburgh, Mo., and to this union four children were born. One son, David, of Harris, Mo.; three daughters, Barbara Early of Urbana, Ill., Gale Curry of Iowa City, Ia., and Marsha of Cedar Falls, Ia.; and two granddaughters, Rachel Norris and Joyce Early. Also two brothers, Hobart, who lives north of Unionville, Mo., on the Iowa-Missouri line and Verl, of Cambria, Iowa.

Lloyd William Norris and his wife

Edith Leona Adamson - 1953

  Lloyd was a well known and high respected implement dealer, and has been engaged in this field of endeavor since 1947. He was also one of the largest dealers in IHC trucks in the midwest, and had been recognized for this achievement numerous times. He dealt in stock extensively, farmed successfully, being in business with his son, David, for several years.

Norris Implement Company, Unionville, MO, Early 1950s

  As president of our Putnam County Lake Board, he served this project diligently and untiringly, and with wisdom and foresight of what this held for the future of the residents of this county and surrounding communities, never once faltered in seeking the groundwork laid, and was constantly pursuant toward the goal of completion in an unselfish and determined manner.

  Besides his parents preceding him in death, there was a brother, Boyd. He was a twin of Lloyd's and passed away at the age of 3.

  Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 31st, 1967 at 1:30 p.m., from Comstock Funeral Home, in Unionville, Mo., with Wayne Norris, a nephew of Greenfield, Ia. officiating.

Funeral Card for Lloyd W. Norris

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary, funeral card, and pictures to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

Hobart Elliott Norris, 1895-1992

Unionville Republican [MO] - February 1992

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  Hobart E. Norris, 96, a resident of Unionville, died Friday, January 31, 1992 at his home.

  The son of Charles and Martha Elliott Norris, he was born October 11, 1895 at Numa, Iowa.

  On November 22, 1919 in Des Moines, Iowa he married Lola Alice Packard and she preceded him in death. Four children were born to this union.

  On June 2, 1960 in Centerville, Iowa he married Elizabeth Atkins and she survives.

  Also surviving are one daughter, Charlene Griswold; two sons, Robert and Verba Norris and Donald and Donna Norris, all of Unionville; ten grandchildren, Ronald Norris, Waterloo, Iowa, Deborah Griswold Roney, Gilroy, Calif., Katharine Lee Mika, Michigan, Randall Griswold, Jean Ann Garten, Paula McCormack, Jeff Norris, Doug Norris, Patricia Carter and Michael Norris, all of Unonville; twenty great-grandchildren, Jessica Miller, Douglas Roney, Andrea Roney, all of Gilroy, Calif., Brandon Bennett, Brant McCormack, Amy McCormack, all of Unionville, Robert Young, Rachelle Mika, Katie Mika, Jacob Mika, Jason Maring, Jennifer Norris, LOea Ann Norris,  Bradley Norris, Joseph Carter, Marty Carter, Wesley Carter, Ronald Norris, Patrick Norris, and Kathrine Norris; five great-great-grandchildren, Justin Miller, David Norris, Sherri Norris, Roberta Norris and Jason Norris; and an adopted sister, Helen Rigger Messersmith.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Howard Norris; three grand-children, David Richard, Robert Norris and Karen Norris; three brothers, Vurl Norris, Lloyd Norris, an infant, Boyd Norris; and a step-son, Ralph Belles.

  He attended elementary school in Numa and graduated from the Seymour High School.

  He enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 31, 1917 [entered service at Chicago, IL*] and served in WWI in France [1 May 1918 to 13 June 1919*]. He was honorably discharged on June 18, 1919 at Mitchell Field, New York [Discharge recorded in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, on 23 June 1921; Serial No. 783457*] .

  Hobart farmed in Cincinnati, Iowa and later owned the Prospect Dairy in Centerville, Iowa for nine years. He moved to Putnam County in 1941. He retired in 1954 and began spending the winder months in Florida.

  He was a member of Prosperity Lodge #504 A.F. & A.M., Cincinnati, Iowa, Moila Shrine Temple at St. Joseph, Kaaba Shrine in Davenport, Iowa, the American Legion, and a member of Centerville Elks Lodge. Hobart was active for many years in the 4-H clubs and was a member of the school board when West Putnam was formed.

  Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, February 3, 1992 in the Comstock Funeral Home with Evangelist Sammy Valentine officiating. Interment was in the Unionville Cemetery.

  Pallbearers were Doug Norris, Jeff Norris, Dwaine McCormack, David Roney, Paul Mika, Randy Garten and Randall Griswold.

  Vocalist Joy Butler sang In the Garden and Beyond the Sunset accompanied by Shirley Comstock, organist. 

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above obituary to  The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.
  *Information in [ ]s related to his military service from Veteran's Record compiled by American Legion Post #180 in Seymour, IA. 

WWI Veteran Keeps Comrades' Memories Alive

Daily Iowegian - November 1985

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By Denise Mart, City Editor

  Ninety-year-old Hobart Norris, a World War I veteran who likes to tell stories about his tour of duty in France and about his grandfather serving in the Civil War, believes today's young people don't fully understand the significance of Memorial Day.

  "I think there are too many other activities that young people are educated to, instead of going to activities put on by the organizations," Norris said, explaining that many people today look at Memorial Day Weekend as a vacation.

  "We ought to be getting this new generation stimulated to the activities of the older generation, like the Memorial Day Services," he said.

  On Oct. 31, 1917, Norris enlisted in a branch of the United States Army called the Quarter Master Corps.

  "Military service runs in my family.  And I think this (American) flag means more to a man who has served it that to one that didn't," he said.

  During Norris' training in Jacksonville, Fla., he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and was assigned to teaching other enlistees how to ride horses. He said he was given this position because of his experience with horses while growing up on a farm.

  In early 1918, after training ended, Norris was stationed in Saint Nazaire, France. His assignment was evacuating horses from the front line to be taken to a recuperation station near Switzerland. At this station Norris was in charge of giving the horses medical attention and feeding them until they were ready to be re-issued.

  "We had to pay $285 for a horse and a man didn't cost anything, so we had to take care of the horses," he said.

  After the signing of the Armistice agreement on Nov. 11, 1918, Norris was assigned to the dty of closing all final statements of solders who died during a flu epidemnic and were buried at sea, and for soldiers who had died in France.

  He was given a special discharge order in June of 1919 and returned home to farm with his father.

  Norris, who usually represents World War I veterans at Memorial Day Services, said he plans to attend this year's American Legion services on the town square and at Oakland Cemetery.

  On Memorial Day Norris said he likes to reflect on his association with veterans, especially those whom he served with in France.

  "It brings memories of the past, and makes me think I'm one of them," he said.

  He said everyone should think of Memorial Day as a time to "remember the past, remember loved ones and those who served the country."

  Norris lives in Centerville with his wife, Alice, and is actively involved withthe oeration of a 1,260-acre farm in Missouri.

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above article to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

Elderly Woman Dies in Seymour House Fire

Associated Press - 5 November 2010

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  Seymour, Iowa -- The Iowa State Fire Marshall has identified an elderly woman who died in a house fire in Seymour.

  State officials said Friday that 86-year-old Genevieve [Rash] Mincks died in the Wednesday blaze in Wayne County. Fire authorities say two people were inside the Seymour home when the fire was found. One person was able to escape from the burning building.

  Officials say first responders found Mincks unresponsive. A cause of death is pending results from an autopsy.

  State officials say the home suffered extensive fire and smoke damage. A cause of the blaze is undetermined but under investigation.

William Washington Elliott, 1845-1927

Past and Present of Lucas and Wayne Counties Iowa

Chicago: The S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1913

Volume II, Pages 50-53

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     For several years William W. Elliott has lived retired in Seymour and by reason of his high standards of integrity and his honorable and upright life has gained the confidence and esteem of many friends. He is a native of Indiana, born in Morgan county, February 18, 1845, and is a son of Brooks and Martha Elliott, natives of Kentucky. In the early days of his career the father of our subject moved into Indiana and there resided until his death, which occurred when his son William W. was only one month old, and only eight days after the death of his wife. Following the death of his parents, the subject of this review was taken into the home of his sister, Mrs. John Bradley. This family left Indiana in the fall of 1854 and moved into Iowa, locating in Appanoose county, where William W. Elliott attended school. 

He was a lad of sixteen at the outbreak of the Civil war and was, in consequence, unable to enlist until 1863, in which year he joined Company H, Eighth Iowa Cavalry, under command of M. M. Walden. He served until the close of the war and was mustered out at Macon, Georgia, on the 13th of August, 1865, receiving his honorable discharge. During the period of his enlistment he saw active service all the time and once was in the thick of a battle or a skirmish every day for thirty-three consecutive days. He was with Sherman on his Atlanta campaign and at Noonan, Georgia, was wounded in his right leg and his horse was killed under him by the same bullet. He suffered from this wound for ten years. On McCook's raid, which took place on July 30, 1864, Mr. Elliott was captured by the rebels and remained in prison for four months, during which time he was afflicted four times with gangrene in his leg. Mis horse fell upon the leg which was not infected and Mr. Elliott has always been more or less disabled as a result of his injuries. After his discharge he returned to Appanoose county and settled on a farm on the 1st of September, 1865. He carried on general agricultural pursuits until 1896 and then moved into Seymour, where he has since lived retired, with the exception of the years from 1907 to 1911, when he resided in Mt. Pleasant in order to educate his children.

     On April 1, 1866, Mr. Elliott married Miss Amanda S. Manning, a daughter of John and U. B. (Morgan) Manning, natives of Ohio, who came to Iowa in 1850 and to Appanoose county in 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Elliott became the parents of three children: Martha L., who married Charles G. Norris, of Numa, Appanoose county; William, who died in infancy; and Edna Love, who lives at home. They are people of wide charity and practical benevolence and at different times have given a good home to five children who were left orphans. They are devout members of the Methodist Episcopal church and in their lives exemplify the doctrines in which they believe.

     Mr. Elliott has firm faith in the principles of prohibition and gives an active and helpful support to the prohibition party. He keeps in touch with his comrades of fifty years ago through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, in which he has attained a place of distinction. He has twice been commander of William Kellogg Post, No. 186, and served for two terms in the same position in McParland Post, No. 20, at Mount Pleasant, Iowa. All the relations of his life have been distinguished by the same steadfast courage and perseverance which marked his work on the southern battlefields and his entire career has been a credit and honor to a man who once proved himself a valorous soldier.

William W. Elliott & His Grandson William Lloyd Norris
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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this article and pictures to The Jerome Journal by Gale Norris of Unionville, MO.

Workman Fiftieth Anniversary at Jerome

Unidentified 1964 Newspaper Clipping

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Workman Fiftieth at Jerome Methodist was Notable Affair

  Golden Anniversaries aren't as rar as they used to be but the anniversary marked by Mr. and Mrs. Dave Workman was notable for various reasons. First and foremost was the fact that Mr. Workman was one of a family of eight children, three brothers and four sisters, all past 60 years of age, attended the anniversary event.

  They are: Fred Workman of Detroit, Mich.; Mrs. Zell Holland of Clarkdale; Mrs. Inez Fry of Centerville; Clifford Workman of Lanora, Kansas; Mrs. Beaulah Luzadber of Kankakee, Ill.; Mrs. Gussie Hoke of Lanora, Kan.; and Jake Workman of Detoit.

Wedding Anniversary Occasion

Mr. and Mrs. Dave Workman are seen above in the Methodist 
Church at Jerome Sunday. Behind a beautifully decorated table 
they posed for their picture as a host of friends gathered 
to attend their Golden Wedding Anniversary.

  Mr. and Mrs. Workman were married Sept. 23, 1914. At the time Mr. Workman was a clerk for Frank Gable in the Gable store at Jerome. He was a son of one of the well known Appanoose county pioneer families. His young bride was Zella Loofbourrow, also a daughter of a pioneer family. They both have attended the Jerome Methodist church, where they were feted yesterday, all their lives. They have lived on the farm where Mrs. Workman was born, three quarters of a mile east and three quarters of a mile north of Jerome since 1918.

  The large number of people who gathered for the anniversary event attested to their wide acquaintance and number of friends.

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above newspaper article to The Jerome Journal by Jane Ann McElvain Mahon.

Darlene's Grocery Store to close in Jerome

Unidentified Early 1970s Newspaper Article

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By Ione LeMay

  Jerome will soon be joining many other small towns that are without a grocery store or gasoline station because Mrs. Marvelle (Darlene) McElvain will be closing the doors to her store and gas station there next week to retire.

  Mrs. McElvain is leaving her business with mixed feelings. She regrets leaving a town filled with mostly Senior Citizens without a store where they can pick up groceries and personal items but, yet, she is looking forward to catching up on her housework and rest. She said, "The older people hate to see me go but I kind of got tired and I have other things to do." Not only will the older people miss a store close by but they will also miss the deliveries she made to them when it was cold or they were ill.

Mrs. Marvelle (Darlene) McElvain

STORE

  When Mrs. McElvain opened her store and station in Jerome 6 1/2 years ago she did so because, "I just thought it would be nice to start one." At that time there wasn't any grocery store in Jerome.

  She purchased the building where she is now located from Frank Zemo. Since then she has added two more buildings to the first one for additional storage space.

  Mrs. McElvain ran the store by herself six days a week from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. with occasional help from her son. On Sunday Mr. McElvain, who is a farmer and trucker, operated the store.

  Her stock included groceries, hardware, salt, dog food, plastic ware and many other items. To add to their supplies Mr. and Mrs. McElvain would travel to grocery store close out sales near and far and would bring back items which "We put a price on it to move it quick."

  Running her own store and station was a first time experience for Mrs. McElvain. For three years before she was married she worked in the Ottumwa Hospital and later took more nurse's aid courses in Centerville but she had never worked in a store.

  Did she mind pumping gas? "No-o-," she said, "I didn't mind it. I generally wear insulated underwear and trudge right on. On a cold morning it gets kind of drafty."

  How did her husband feel about her running her own business?  "He don't mind too bad. He's about as good a cook as I am. A lot of times when I go home he will have his favorite raspberry pie, corn bread and beans fixed."

4-H

  One of the things Mrs. McElvain will be spending her time doing after she closes her store will be working with her 4-H girls. She has been a 4-H leader for 15 years. She says of her 4-H Club, the Lincoln Luckies, "We're small but we're mighty."

  The McElvain family have all been active in 4-H. Mr. McElvain is a leader of a boy's 4-H Club. Daughter Jane Ann, now Mrs. Bill Mahon, was in 4-H for nine years and son Bob, who is a Junior in Centerville High School, has been in 4-H for nine years and is still a member.

  Mrs. McElvain believes that youngsters should be started in 4-H young because, "They're all eager beavers and enthusiastic when they are young."

  What other plans does Mrs. McElvain have for when she retires from her store? "I tell them that I am going home and sit under a shade tree," she said with a laugh. But she admits it would be a little cool for that right now. She does plan on catching up on her housework and helping more with the Suffolk sheep they raise. "I enjoy them," she said. She also hopes they will be able to get away on a vacation and spend more time at the fairs. "I love all fairs," she explained.

  "There was a time I had a lot of hobbies," Mrs. McElvain said. But she hasn't had time to keep up with them since she started operating her own store. She does find time though to belong to the 4-H Extension Council and the Federated Club.

  Many of Mrs. McElvain's customers are telling her, "You go home rest, re-decorate and come back to us."  But right now her plans are to sell her store and station. She said, "If I don't get it sold I am just going to close up and have an auction in the spring."

  So once again Jerome will be without any stores.

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  The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above article to The Jerome Journal by Mrs. Jane Ann (Bill) Mahon.