The Jerome Journal

Charles Rupalo [Kazimierz Rupalla],1893-1976

2012-01-23T07:19:00.000-08:00

CharlesRupalo [Kazimierz Rupalla], 1893-1976

Charles Rupalo (Kazimierz Rupalla), son ofJohn Rupalo and Mary Helmen, was born in Jaworzno, Galicia Province, Austria, 2March 1893, during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He was raised in thisarea which later became part of independent southwest Poland. He departedthis life at the Wayne County Hospital in Corydon, Wayne County, Iowa on 28December 28 1976: aged 83 years, 9 months and 26 days.

At the age of 19 he came to America,naturalized at Ellis Island on 12 December 1912. He settled in AppanooseCounty Iowa and spent a majority of his life coal mining. At the age of52 he left the coal mines and began farming near Numa in Lincoln Township,Appanoose County, IA.

On 8 September 1918, he was united inmarriage to Maggie Gorman, making their home near Diamond, Iowa. Upon hisretirement from farming in 1966, they moved to Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa tomake their home.

Besides his widow, he is survived by sixchildren: Mrs. Wanda McFarland (Cecil) of Longmont, Colo., Walter Rupalo(Donna) of Seymour, Wilbur Rupalo (Fern) of Centerville, Mrs. Louise Newby(Kenneth) of Donnellson, Mrs. Carolyn Inman (Wendell) of Corydon, and Mrs.Eleanor Ferren of Austin, Texas. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, onegreat grandchild, one nephew, and three nieces.

Funeral was Thursday, 30 December 1976 at the Liggett-Randolph Funeral home inSeymour with Rev. Louis Schaffner officiating. Milton Albertson sangrequested hymns, accompanied by Mrs. Iris Merritt. Pallbearers wereHarold McElvain, Dan Jones, Roger DeVore, Dr. A.W. Cooper, Roger Park andStanley Cooper. Burial was in Southlawn Cemetery, Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa.

CardOf Thanks

The Charles Rupalo family wishes to expresssincere thanks to friends and neighbors for food, flowers and expressions ofsympathy in the recent death of our father, husband and grandfather.

Family of Charles Rupalo

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Obituary of CharlesRupalo emailed to the editor of TheJerome Journal on 16 January 2012 by Lauretta Newby [lnewby@southslope.net],granddaughter, and edited by Bill Hawkins.

Ocie Ola Moore Huston, 1894-1967

2012-01-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

St. Joseph News-Press - 6 October 1967

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Mrs. Ira Huston

Mrs. Ocie Ola Huston, 72, 1010 Ellsworth avenue, died at 10:35 a.m. at a hospital here, where she had been a patient since Sept. 22.

A native of Jerome, Iowa, Mrs. Huston had lived her 40 years. She was a member of the North St. Joseph Taberacle. Her husband, Ira Huston, died May 5, 1964.

Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Anna Mae Richardson, St. Joseph; two sons, Ervin Huston, of the home, and Glen Huston,m St. Joseph; two sisters, Mrs. Gertrude Hudson, St. Joseph, and Mrs. Etta Phillips, Cincinnati, Iowa; 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

The body is at the Stamey mortuary.

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Ocie Ola Moore was born August 1894 in Appanoose County, Iowa, daughter of Joel E. Moore and Mary Van Dorn and married 11 April 1909 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, Ira Huston who was born 24 Jun 1883 in Appanoose County, Iowa, son of Jamison Huston and Ada Hunt, and died 5 May 1964. In 1918 Ira and Ocie Huston lived in Jerome and Ira was employed at the Harkes Coal Company in Jerome.

To this union was born four sons and three daughters, including: (1) Ansel Otis Huston, son, born 7 May 1910 in Appanoose County, Iowa, died 20 December 1910 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 21 December 1910 in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa (2) Virgie V. Huston, daughter, born c1912; (3) Anna Mae Huston, daughter, born c1915, married to Everett Richardson; (4) Ira Verl Huston, son, born c1919; (5) George Irvin Huston, son, born 10 June 1924 in Appanoose County, Iowa, and died 14 September 2010 in Saint Joseph, Buchanan, Missouri; and (6) Glenn W. Huston, son, born c1927.

Sources for Information

--Calvin Lyman Smith Family Tree owned by sdgrange on Ancestry.com.

--Census Records on Ancestry.com:

1895-IA Census-Appanoose-Mystic-Image 73.

1900-US Census-IA-Appanoose-Mystic-District 24-Image 1.

1905-IA Census-Appanoose-Mystic-Image 7.

1910-US Census-IA-Appanoose-Lincoln-District 21-Image 10.

1920-US Census-IA-Wapello-Ottumwa Ward 5-District 157-Image 40.

1925-IA Census-Wapello-Ottumwa Ward 6-Image 187-188-189.

1930-US Census-MO-Buchanan-St Joseph-District 20-Image 19.

--Ocie Ola Moore's and Ira Huston's marriage record on Iowa Marriages, 1809-1992 on FamilySearch.org.

--Ira Huston's registration card on World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918 on Ancestry.com.

--Ira Huston's birth and death dates and Social Security number on Social Security Death Records on Ancestry.com.

--Ansel Otis Huston's death record on Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990 on FamilySearch.org.

--Ansel Otis Huston's gravestone record in Jerome Cemetery in Appanoose County, Iowa, Cemeteries: Lincoln Township published by the Appanoose County Genealogical Society.

Lost and Found

2012-01-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

The Weekly Guernsey Times
Cambridge, OH - 15 June 1905

From Google News Archive on 8 January 2012

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A true life story comes from Seymour, Iowa. Thirty-four years ago one George M. Wilson, living near Delphos, Ohio, disposed of his farm, pocketed the cash and with the hired girl went west to seek his fortune and a little seclusion. His wife and his eight children were left to get along as best they could. They got along somehow without the help of the father or the hired girl.

Recently to (sic) deserted wife applied for a pension as the widow of her old soldier husband. The pension office investigated and found her supposed dead husband much alive and living at Seymour, Iowa; with the hired girl, now a woman of mature years, with a daughter approaching the old maid point of thirty years. The married daughter of the original and only wife travels from Ohio to Iowa to see her long lost dad. Was he glad to see her? Did parental love break out afresh? Hardly. For now it is stated the daughter has commenced suit against her father claiming the sum of $4,000 for services and money expended for the care of her mother.

And this is not the only mix up. The father during his long life in Iowa has been conveying real estate, the erstwhile hired girl signing the deeds as his wife, while in law, if in deed, she was not his wife. The deserted wife may yet retain her one-third interest under Iowa law. The present owners of these lands will want to clear their titles. Old man Wilson will have to compromise on the best settlement he can make, or stand a chance of losing all in attorney fees, court costs, and other proceedings.

Moral: Draw it yourself.

Iowa Charivari Party Victims of a Grade Crossing

2012-01-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Iowa State Bystander - 20 October 1899

From GenealogyBank.com on 8 January 2012

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ONE KILLED, NINE INJURED

Members of an Iowa Charivari Party

Victims of a Grade Crossing

Seymour, Iowa, Oct. 20: --One person was killed and nine others were injured, several probably fatally, in a grade crossing accident here Wednesday. A wagon in which ten young men bound across the country to charivari a newly married couple was struck by an east-bound meat train on the Rock Island road and knocked from the track. Will Cupples was killed outright and the following were injured:

Arrison, Norlan, bruised and cut on head; severe.

Arrison, Orin, two scalp wounds.

Bueler, Asa, injured in spine and hip.

Darrah, David, shoulder, spine and hip.

Gunter, Harlin, scalp wound, injured in spine; severe.

Handlin, James A., slight injuries.

Hostutler, Earl, struck on head; unconscious.

McReynolds, J. L., slight injuries.

Peers, J. M., slight injuries.

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The Daily Star, Fredericksburg, VA - 20 October 1899

From Google News Archive on 8 January 2012

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Fatality Prevents a Charivari

Seymour, Ia., Oct. 19.--An accident occurred here last night in which one person was killed and nine others injured, several of them probably fatally. A crowd of young men had started to the country to charivari a newly married couple, and as they drove across the Rock Island track, in the eastern limits of the city, they were struck by a train and knocked from the track. Will Cupples was killed outright and his body was found upon the pilot of the engine. The other members of the party were thrown promiscuously along the track, the wagon completely demolished and the harness torn from the horses.

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Warsaw Daily Times, Warsaw Indiana - 19 October 1899

From Google News Archive on 8 January 2012

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RUN DOWN BY A TRAIN

Wagon Load of Young Men Who Were

Going to a Charivari

Seymour, Ia., Oct. 19.--A frightful accident occurred here at 7:45 o'clock yesterday evening, in which one person was killed and nine others injured, perhaps several of them fatally. A crowd of young men had started to the country to charivari a newly married couple and as they drove across the Rock Island track in the east limits of the city they were struck by the east bound meat train and knocked from the track. Will Cupples was killed outright.

List of casualties: J. W. Cupples, dead; Asa Bueller, injured in spine and hip; David Darrah, shoulder, spine and hip; Harlin Gunter, scalp wound, injured in spine, probably serious; Norlan Arrison, bruised and cut on head, bad; Orin Arrison, two scalp wounds; Earl Hostutler, unconscious; J. M. Peers, slight injuries; J. L. McReynolds, slight injuries; James A. Handlin, slight injuries.

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Kendallville Standard, Kendallville, Indian - 27 October 1899

From Google News Archive on 8 January 2012

------------------------------

One Killed and Nine Injured

One person was killed and nine others were injured, several probably fatally, in a grade crossing accident at Seymour, Iowa. A wagon in which were ten young men bound across the country to charivari a newly married couple was struck by an east-bound meat train on the Rock Island road and knocked from the track. Will Cupples was killed outright.

The 18th Iowa Volunteer Infantry

2011-11-17T06:04:00.001-08:00

CivilWar Notebook

Posted: 16 Nov 2011 08:00 AM PST

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The Eighteenth Iowa Infantry

This regiment was made up of companies raisedlargely in the counties of Lucas, Clarke, Monroe, Keokuk, Iowa, Mahaska,Muscatine, Louisa, Linn, Wapello, Appanoose, Marion, Warren, Polk, Fayette,Benton, Clinton and Washington. It was mustered into the service early inAugust, 1862, with John Edwards, colonel; Thos. F. Cook, lieutenant-colonel,and Hugh J. Campbell, major, and numbered 875 men. It was sent to southwestMissouri and joined General Schofield's army at Springfield. Here it didgarrison duty for a long time, and in January, 1863, took part in the defenseof that city against the Confederate army, under General Marmaduke. Thisgeneral, with an army of over 4,000 men, well supplied with artillery, movedagainst Springfield which was then held by General Brown with Missouri militia,some invalid soldiers in hospital and the Eighteenth Iowa Volunteers, in all,about 1,500 men. There were some unfinished forts about the city, but not incondition to aid much in the defense. When the battle opened on the morning ofJanuary 8th, five companies of the Eighteenth regiment were absent on outpostduty. The Missouri militia did excellent service, charging on the right andcenter of the advancing army. Captain Landis' battery supported by threecompanies of the Eighteenth Iowa, advanced on the enemy, but a charge inoverwhelming numbers captured his guns, and the rebel army continued toadvance. General Brown was severely wounded and the command devolved on ColonelCrabb. When the militia were driven back by superior numbers at about 4o'clock, the five companies of the Eighteenth came in from their outpost and,under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Cook, charged on the rebel center,compelling it to give way. When night came on we still held the city and in themorning of the 9th our troops were ready to renew the battle, but the enemy hadretreated with a loss of more than 200 men. Our loss was about the same. TheEighteenth remained at Springfield a long time after this battle, holdingsouthwest Missouri from General Shelby's rebel army and driving it out of thestate. In October the Eighteenth was stationed at Fort Smith. In March, 1864,it joined General Thayer and marched to unite with General Steele's army movingtowards Shreveport, La., to co-operate with General Banks. But when thatgeneral was defeated at Mansfield Steele marched towards Camden, and at Moscowwas attacked by a rebel army. Colonel Edwards commanded a brigade and had quitea lively fight in which the Eighteenth lost a few men. In guarding a foragetrain near Poison Springs, the Eighteenth and First Kansas had a severe battlein which the Iowa regiment fought bravely and lost seventy-seven men. Theregiment was mustered out late in the summer of 1865.

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SOURCE, Benjamin F. Gue, Biographies And Portraits Of The Progressive Men Of Iowa, Volume 1,p. 103

The 17th Iowa Volunteer Infantry

2011-11-15T23:40:00.001-08:00

Civil War Notebook

Posted 15 November 2011 08:00 AM PST

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The Seventeenth Iowa Volunteers

The companies making up this regiment wereraised chiefly in the counties of Lee, Van Buren, Des Moines, Wapello, Decatur,Polk, Jefferson, Washington, Appanoose, Marion, Dallas and Warren. It wasmustered into the service on the 16th of April, 1862, with 935 men. Its firstfield officers were John W. Rankin, colonel: David B. Hillis,lieutenant-colonel and Samuel M. Wise, major. It was sent to join GeneralHalleck's army at Corinth, in May, and joined in the pursuit of the confederatearmy. At the battle of Iuka the regiment was engaged and thrown into confusion,for which it was censured by General Rosecrans, as many believe, unjustly.Colonel Rankin resigned on the 3d of September.

On the 3d and 4th of October was fought thebattle of Corinth, in which the Seventeenth took an active part, and foughtwith great bravery. Smarting under the unjust censure cast upon them at Iuka,the men went into this battle with a determination to wipe out the stigma,which they did most effectually. At a crisis of the battle, when the rebels hadforced their way into Corinth, the Seventeenth made a splendid charge upon theadvancing column and after a sharp conflict drove it back in confusion.

After the victory was won, General Sullivan,commanding the brigade in which the Seventeenth Iowa served, wrote to GovernorKirkwood as follows: "I have the honor to present to you the colors of theFortieth Mississippi regiment, captured by the Seventeenth Iowa on thebattlefield of Corinth, in a gallant charge on the advancing columns of theenemy, which the Seventeenth alone met, broke and pursued. I have never ledbraver men into action than the soldiers of the Seventeenth proved themselvesin the desperate and bloody battle of Corinth." The colors were capturedby Corporal John King, of Company G, from Marion county.

General Rosecrans, in a general order, said:"The Seventeenth Iowa infantry by its gallantry on the battlefield ofCorinth, charging the enemy and capturing the flag of the Fortieth Mississippi,has amply atoned for its misfortune at Iuka, and stands among the honoredregiments of this army. Long may they wear with unceasing brightness the honorsthey have won."

The loss of the regiment on the field ofCorinth was twenty-five. Ingersoll says: "The Seventeenth inflicted asmuch damage upon the enemy as any regiment at Corinth, and received less damagein return." Lieutenant-Colonel Hillis was now promoted to colonel of theregiment, and Capt. Clark R. Wever to lieutenant-colonel. For several monthsthe Seventeenth was employed in Tennessee and Mississippi, joining GeneralMcPherson's army in February, 1863. It shared in the hard marches, severebattles and glorious victories of Grant's Vicksburg campaign. At Jackson andChampion Hill it fought bravely and lost heavily. Colonel Hillis had resignedin. May and Lieutenant-Colonel Wever was now colonel, Major Archer,lieutenant-colonel, and Capt. John F. Walden, of Company F, was major of theregiment.

The Seventeenth participated in theChatanooga campaign and fought bravely at Lookout Mountain, where it lostfifty-seven men. In April, 1864, the regiment re-enlisted as veterans to thenumber of 479. In July, the regiment occupied Tilton. Two companies werecaptured near Dalton after exhausting their ammunition in a brave defense. Onthe 13^th of October the garrison at Tilton was assailed byoverwhelming numbers. Lieutenant-Colonel Archer made a heroic defense until hisblockhouse was rendered untenable by artillery, when he was forced tosurrender. Colonel Wever was in command of a brigade at Resaca when he wasattacked by Hood’s army. He had but about seven hundred men and four pieces oflight artillery. He defended the post with great energy all day, and at nightwas reinforced by 500 cavalry. Colonel Wever spent the night strengthening hisposition, and early in the morning the attack was renewed; but furtherreinforcements came, and General Hood finally retreated as General Sherman’sarmy came in sight. Colonel Wever received warm commendations from Sherman andHoward for his brave and successful defense. When the Seventeenth was capturedat Tilton, Captain Horner and some forty men of the regiment only remained inthe service, and were disbanded in August, 1865.

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SOURCE, Benjamin F. Gue, Biographies And Portraits Of The ProgressiveMen Of Iowa, Volume 1, p. 102

Music, Supper At Jerome - 30 October 2011

2011-11-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 27 October 2011

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Everyone is invited to a Bluegrass Halloween soup supper and music at the Jerome United Methodist Church Sunday.

See ad in this issue for time.

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ACHS's Centerville Digitization Process Complete

2011-11-04T05:57:00.001-07:00

Daily Iowegian - November 4, 2011

----------------------------

Iowegiandigitization process complete;

database will beopen soon at museum

CENTERVILLE — The curator at the AppanooseCounty Historical and Coal Mining Museum reports the digitization of areanewspapers is complete.
Lisa Eddy writes in the AppanooseCounty Historical Society fall newsletter the newspaper database has beendelivered by Advantage Company. As soon as an Advantage Company representativeproperly installs the database and trains museum employees, it will beavailable for public use on a computer at the museum.
In early 2012, the newspaper databasewill be online. Look for a link to the database on the museum's website.
"We want to extend our sincereappreciation to those people and businesses who donated to this worthwhileproject," Eddy writes in the newsletter. "It was an expensiveprocedure, but now that it is done, it is much less expensive to maintain it,year to year."
Becky Maxwell, Daily Iowegianpublisher, has committed to pay the annual fee to keep the database up-to-date,according to the newsletter. A grant from the Community Fund helped pay for thenewspaper digitization project and a new computer at the museum "to accessthe old Iowegians."

Lela Ruth (Fenton) Ponsetto, 1928-2011

2011-11-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

Daily Iowegian – 31 October 2011

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CENTERVILLE — Lela Ponsetto, 83, ofMontrose, and a former Jerome and Centerville resident, died on Friday, Oct.28, 2011 at Montrose Health Care Center in Montrose.
She was born the daughter of Otha andMyrtle (Dochterman) Fenton Sr. on July 1, 1928 near Udell. She graduated fromthe Mystic Community School.
On Sept. 22, 1946 Lela was united inmarriage to John Ponsetto in Corydon. They lived and farmed in the Jerome areafor many years. She was a homemaker and a member of the St. Mary's CatholicChurch in Centerville.

Lela Ruth (Fenton) Ponsetto

She was preceded in death by: herparents; husband, John Ponsetto on March 22, 2005; brothers, Otha Fenton Jr.,Lyle Fenton and Paul Fenton; and a sister, Barbara Allen
Lela is survived by: her sisters,Beverly McFall of Montrose, and Colleen Bryant of Niceville, Fla.; also severalnieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services will be held onMonday, Oct. 31, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home inCenterville with Fr. Dennis Schaab officiating. Burial will follow in theJerome Cemetery at Jerome. Visitation was held on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011 from4-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Gravestone of Lela Ruth & John Ponsetto

in Jerome Cemetery

Memorials can be made to either theParkinson's Association or Jerome Cemetery and can be left at or mailed to thefuneral home. The Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Centerville, Iowa is caringfor the Ponsetto family at this time and condolences can be sent at:schmidtfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Jerome Cemetery: New Section, Block 17, Lot 2 -- William Joseph Barton, 1875-1951, and Family

2011-10-17T09:30:00.000-07:00

Jerome Cemetery - New Section
Block 17, Lot 2, Row 5
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William Joseph Barton ...

Viola Butler ...

Daughter ...

Willard Barton ...

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William Joseph Barton, 1875-1951

William Joseph Barton, 76, died at 5 o'clock Monday morning [22 January 1951] at the St. Joseph hospital. He had been a patient there for the past two weeks. He lived at 1510 South Main street.

Barton was born in Putnam county, Missouri, January 13, 1875. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Barton. He married Viola Butler and to this union were born seven children, five surviving. They are B. C. Barton, Ventura, Calif.; H. N. Barton, Sterling, Colo.; Butler Barton, Broadview, Ill.; Mrs. James Mickey, Seymour; Mrs. Gale Felkner, Centerville R 3. Three sisters survive, Mrs. Home Hamilton, Centerville; Mrs. Emma McCulloch, Davenport; Mrs. Harl Brattain of Promise City. Nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren survive.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Viola, who died in 1928. A son, Willard, died in 1934, and a daughter died in infancy. His parents, a brother, Ruban, a sister, Mrs. Elmer Butler, also preceded.

For a number of years Mr. Barton served as a Centerville constable. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. from the Johnson Funeral home with the Rev. Fred J. Ackman officiating. Burial will be at the Jerome cemetery.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this January 1951 obituary and Funeral Notice to The Jerome Journal by Leona Patten of Loveland, Colorado.

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Seymour Herald - 25 January 1951

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W. J. Barton, 74, Died Early Monday

Funeral services were held Wednesday in Centerville for William Joseph Barton, father of Mrs. James Mickey, who died early Monday. Barton, 74, had been a patent at the St. Joseph Hospital in Centerville for about two weeks. His home was at 1510 South Main St., Centerville.

The Rev. Fred J. Ackman conducted the service at the Johnson Funeral home and burial was in the Jerome cemetery.

Mr. Barton had been a Centerville constable for many years.

Besides Mrs. Mickey he is survived by three sons and a daughter, B. C. Barton, Ventura, Calif., H. N. Barton, Sterling, Colo., Butler Barton, Broadview, Ill., and Mrs. Gale Felkner of Centerville. His wife, the former Viola Butler, died in 1928 and a son and daughter have preceded him in death.

Also surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Homer Hamilton, of Centerville, Mrs. Emma McCulloch of Davenport and Mrs. Harl Brattain of Promise City, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Visiting the Mickeys and here for the rites Miss Joyce Mickey, Butler Barton and H. N. Barton.

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Mildred Elaine King - Senior of the Week

2011-10-16T17:03:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 11 January 1951

The Pepper - Official Publication

of the Seymour Public School

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SENIOR OF THE WEEK

By Eleanor Barkley

This senior girl is the youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Lester King. Mildred Elaine King, well-known member of the class of '51, was born Oct. 16, 1932, south of Jerome, Iowa. She has three older brothers and one older sister.

Mildred has dark brown hair and eyes, is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs 135 pounds. She began her schooling at Jerome and received her eighth grade diploma from Numa.

Mildred likes fried chicken as her favorite food. The movie "Annie Get Your Gun" rated first, and Esther Williams is her leading movie star. She like the book "Jane Eyre" best and lists shorthand as her preferred subject. Royal blue is her specific color and summer her favorite season of the year.

When the radio is on the "Judy Canova Show" leads as her favorite program. Singer "Hank Snow" and the music of Skitch Henderson's orchestra are her musical preferences. For a pastime she likes to visit.

This senior girl is a staunch Warriorette and basketball has played an important role in her high school career. Her activities are: basketball 4 years, honorable mention on Jack North's all state team and I.D.P.A all state team, band 1 year, waitress Junior-Senior banquet two years, Carnival Queen of 1950, Attendant of Homecoming Queen, "S" Club.

Mildred's pet peeve is having to wait for someone or something. Her most exciting moment hasn't happened yet.

The different activities offered are what she likes best about S.H.S. To improve it she would like a more even distribution of heat in the school building.

Mildred is taking a commercial course but says her plans are indefinite.

JEROME News - By Miss Susie Sidles

2011-10-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 27 December 1951

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Mr. and Mrs. Billy Mincks of Cedar Falls spent the week end at the Charley McGavran home. They were joined there Sunday for turkey dinner by the Richard Mincks family and by Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. Jones and son, Frank, of Des Moines.

Pete and Jim Sidles are spending the Christmas holidays at the parental Peter Sidles home from their school work at Iowa State College at Ames.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Owen of Iowa City are spending the holidays at the Bert F. Murphy home and with Mrs. S. J. Owen in Centerville. Tommy Owen of Louisville, Ky., is also at home for Christmas. Mrs. S. J. Owen is not so well and bedfast a part of the time.

Janice Workman missed school several days with cold and flu.

School closed Friday for a week vacation. The teachers will spend their vacation at home. Mrs. Murphy, with her family, spent Christmas day with Mrs. Ada Long and daughter, Helen, in Promise City.

The school program was given Thursday evening, Dec. 20, and a good attendance in spite of severe weather was reported.

The M.Y.F. accompanied by their sponsor, Mrs. Paul Felkner, and husband, were out singing carols Wednesday evening. Then after their regular meeting had refreshments at the church.

Born to Mr. and Mrs. Howard Sidles at Ames a son Dec. 19. On the same morning the father, Howard, received his Masters Degree from Iowa State College.

James Morris accompanied Mr. and Mrs. Merrill Condra and son, Jimmy, to Liberal and Santana, Kans., where they were to spend Christmas with the Raymond Leaming and John Kline families.

Jane Ann McElvain fell at her home a few days ago and bruised her leg so badly she had been unable to walk since. Her sister said no bones were broken but a very bad bruise.

Miss Phyllis Hamm of Davenport is spending several days at home.

The W.S.C.S. will meet Thursday. The hostesses will be Mrs. J. W. Workman and Mrs. Earl Fry, Mrs. J. G. Morris will have charge of the program.

James Felkner is at home and improved after several days in the Davis county hospital for a back injury.

Mrs. Lydia Bollman and Mrs. W. R. Hefner are both at home and recovering after hospital experiences.

Mrs. Raymond Leaming of Liberal, Kans., returned hoe last Monday after spending days at the parental J. G. Morris home.

JEROME News - By Miss Susie Sidles

2011-10-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 11 January 1951

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James Morris returned to Satana, Kans., Saturday where he is attending school after spending the holidays at his home here.

Mrs. Dominck Massa spent several days during the holidays in Moline, Ill., with her son, Barney, and her daughter, Mrs. Francis Jacobs, and Mr. Jacobs.

Jerome school opened Tuesday after the vacation but the Semour bus did not run until Thursday because of ice on the roads.

Mrs. J. E. Condra spent New Year's day with her sister, Mrs. Guy Streepy, at Udell.

The youth fellowship held a sub-district meeting in West Grove Monday night. Several from here attended.

Mr. and Mrs. Forest Workman and Janice spent Sunday at the Dick Lowe home near Seymour.

The Rev. J. A. Walls of Centerville preached at the morning service Sunday, supplying for the Rev. M. R. Gonzales, who is still improving at his home in Mystic. The Rev. Mr. Wall will preach again Jan. 21.

Mrs. S. J. Owen of Centerville spent Saturday at the K. E. Owen home. Mrs. K. E. Owen and daughter, Dianna Lynn, returned to their home New Years day after several days in the hospital and with Mrs. S. J. Owen in Centerville.

The W.S.C.S. will have an afternoon meeting Thursday, Jan. 11. Mrs. Peter Sidles, Mrs. C. E. Ervin and Mrs. I. E. Fry will be hostesses. Mrs. Paul Felkner will give a book review and Mrs. Richard Mincks will have charge of the music.

Pete and Jim Sidles and Phyllis Hawkins returned to their school work at Iowa State college in Ames New Year's day.

Kenneth Inman spent a few days at the parental Edward Inman home and returned to Mason City New Year's day where he is employed.

Miss Rosalie Stickler will be employed in the statehouse during the present session of the state legislature.

Rev. Powelson's Last Temperance Rally in Mystic!

2011-10-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

The Rev. Charles W. Powelson

His Last Temperance Rally in Mystic

The Rev. Charles W. Powelson served the Jerome Methodist Church from 1886 to 1892 as its pastor. Jerome was one of the churches on a circuit that included Plano, Cincinnati and other Methodist churches in western Appanoose county. Much detail of his life and family is included in an earlier post on The Jerome Journal. His daughter Ethel was born during the time they lived in Appanoose County. She later became a well-known, best-selling author, writing under her married name of Ethel Hueston. The following excerpt is from Chapter One of Ethel Hueston's Preacher's Wife [Indianapolis & New York: The Bobbs-Merrill Company Publishers, 1941] which details the happenings on the day after Rev. Powelson learned at the Southeastern Iowa Annual Conference of the Methodist Church that he would be assigned to the Mt. Pleasant circuit for the coming year and had returned home to the parsonage in Cincinnati to tell his family about his new appointment.

--------------------------------

Rev. Charles Wesley Powelson

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On that morning all she (Rev. Powelson's wife) said was, "It'll be better for all the children, getting them away from this mining crowd and all these saloons."

"I'll miss the temperance rallies, " Father said. "There won't be any need for temperance rallies in Henry County, since they have prohibition."

"There's plenty of the Lord's work to do, wherever you go," Mother said tartly. "And I guess you'll find plenty of drunkards to work on, even if they have got prohibition."

"I shouldn't wonder," he assented. "I would certainly miss my temperance rallies."

Minnie and Mary, our two oldest sisters, would miss them, too. Father's temperance rallies were the nearest approach to "theater" that we were permitted to witness. We found them far more emotionally dramatic than Epworth League entertainments or Sunday-school cantatas at Christmas and Easter. We younger ones were seldom allowed to go, as Mother considered us too young for such things, but we enjoyed hearing about them. Minnie, who was sixteen, went to play the portable organ and lead in the singing of rousing hymns and temperance songs. Mary, who even at twelve, was an outstanding elocutionist, was allowed to go to speak her temperance pieces, both thus playing their part in the good cause.

Usually the temperance rallies were held in meeting houses, schools or public halls but frequently on street corners or in public parks. Nearly always they were scheduled for Saturday night, when the miners received their weekly pay and could look forward to a quiet Sabbath to recuperate from a debauch. Father himself, not satisfied with street corners, often followed his prospective converts into the saloons to fling his spirited harangue right across the bar at them. And many a Bible he sold there, and many a temperance pledge he got signed, though sometimes the Bible was left on the bar and the signature dishonored before the ink was dry.

So effectively did Charley Powelson wage war against the liquor interests and win signers to his temperance pledges (many quite hardened drunkards said they had so good a time at his temperance rallies as they had at the saloon) that the "whiskey element" from being tolerantly amused became surly and presently threatening. They figured that it was all right for people to get religion if they wanted to and sign as many pledges as they liked so long as it did not cut into their revenue. But increasingly it did cut into their revenue.

Before long, they were making open threats against Charley Powelson. They said they would "get him." They would run him out of the county. They would tar and feather him.

Charley Powelson used their own threats against them as fresh fodder for his fiery campaign. There was nothing he liked better than a red-hot, knock-down, drag-out tussle with the Devil and his agents. And people liked him. Most of the drunkards in the county were personally devoted to him and it infuriated them to have him threatened on their account. In a way, it was an aspersion on their strength of character. It insinuated that they were not able to run their own affairs to suit themselves, that they could not take it or leave it alone, as they felt inclined. Almost daily he won more signers to his pledge and his pledges were better kept.

For one Saturday night he had announced a mammoth rally to he held in Mystic. He was warned to stay away from that meeting. His friends, the Christians, were advised to keep him away unless they wanted him to get hurt. His other friends, the drunkards, warned him on their own account uneasily. The "liquor crowd" had spread the word that there was not going to be any rally at Mystic. But Charley would not be scared off.

Mother refused to let Minnie and Mary attend that meeting. She said they were too young to get mixed up in a public brawl even in a good cause. Throwing a few stones and epithets was one thing, but when it came to breaking up a meeting it was no place for young girls. The girls were distressed about it, for Minnie loved to play the organ and lead the singing and Mary had a brand new temperance piece she had been practicing on. But Mother was firm. They could not go.

Charley piled his temperance magazines and pamphlets into the buggy along with an extra supply of pledge cards. He sharpened his stubby pencils, for he was foresighted enough to have pencils ready to take advantage of a momentary moving of the Spirit. He whistled as he hitched his team to his top buggy and was in high spirits as he drove off.

When he reached the schoolhouse in Mystic there were many men lounging around the steps and the gate and along the hitching rail. They surrounded him as he secured his team. These were his friends. They said they had arranged to patrol the grounds during the meeting to protect the teams and buggies. They said there were a lot of rowdies on hand.

"My Missis says you to come and spend the night with us, Brother Powelson," said one hospitably. "Those rapscallions have got guns. They say they are laying for you on the road home."

Charley laughed. "They can't bluff me.!"

"I do not think they are bluffing. They are in a mean mood."

"When a man means business, Brother, he does not go around blowing about what he's up to. He goes ahead about his mischief and does it and keeps his mouth shut."

"Have you got a gun, Brother Powelson?"

"No, I haven't and I do not need one. I've got all the ammunition I need, though." He patted his well-worn Bible with confident assurance.

His friends did not like it. They grouped about him to escort him into the crowded meeting house. Every seat was filled. Boys were perched in the open windows and girls clustered along the edge of the platform. The space around the doors at the back of the hall was packed. He spied several of his own "church crowd" doggedly holding their places among the rowdies near the door. A tenseness of excitement, of grim foreboding, hung in the air.

Charley made his way down the aisle toward the platform, shaking hands as he went, speaking cheerily and not forgetting to pass out temperance pamphlets. Several detained him long enough to whisper, "Be careful! They are laying for you!" or "Better go easy on them tonight." "You come to our house tonight," was the frequent invitation. "Don't you drive back that long dark road alone."

"It takes more than the Devil and a few of his hired men to scare me out," he said gaily. He was rather pleased than otherwise. Nothing put such rousing spirit into a temperance rally as the prospect of a good row before it was over.

He went triumphantly through the meeting, reading Scripture appropriate to the theme in his most resonant voice, lustily leading the singing. His prayers were as challenging as they were intercessional. He did not go far as to pray for the Devil in person, but he offered ringing petition on behalf of all rowdies, drunkards and the keepers of saloons and brothels.

In the singing,that priceless adjunct to the movement of the Spirit, even with a less experienced aid at the organ in place of the banished Minnie, he outdid himself. Constantly he exhorted his hearers to sing louder, sing as though they meant it. "Let the Devil know we mean business!" he shouted! Tear the rafters down if you have to!"

"Throw out the Life-line!

Throw out the Life-line!

Some one is sinking--today."

He enlivened his lecture with anecdotes, some so humorous that they made his listeners laugh in spite of themselves; others so pitiful that they wrung tears from their eyes and set them blowing their noses; but every one with a well-barbed shaft straight to the heart of the liquor traffic.

Then he got them all singing again while he walked, singing, up and down the aisles, distributing pledges and pencils, urging all to sign.

There was no disturbance. He rocks were thrown, no benches broken. Not one indecent epithet was hurled. They rowdies muttered a little. They took pledge cards, tore them to shreds and tossed them derisively at Charley's feet. However, the meeting came to a peaceful but enthusiastic close.

Again his friends urged him to go with one of them for the night, and again he laughed at their fears. "When they mean business, they keep their mouths shut," he said.

"They say they are lying in wait for you along the road. Why don't you fool them and take the long way home?"

"Not me! When anyone takes a shot at me I want to be on hand to see the fun."

Someone untied his horses and fastened the tie straps. Another handed him his reins and whip.

"God bless you, Brother Powelson," said one.

"God bless you, brothers!" he responded heartily. "Good night!"

They stood in silence as he flicked his reins and the horses cantered off. But he was not silent. He called good-by in a ringing voice, and as the buggy rolled away into the darkness, he broke into one of his favorite temperance songs:

"Oh, no, boys! Oh, no!

The turnpike's free wherever I go!

I'm a temperance engine, don't you see,

And the brewer's big horses can't run over me!"

Crossing a low bridge he saw a couple of men loitering half out of sight behind the rails. "Hello, friends!" he saluted them cheerily, "Nice night! Looking for frogs' legs?" And then, "'The turnpike's free wherever I go!'"

At a shadowy place beside the road, a buggy was drawn off close to the fence. In it sat two men, motionless, not talking.

"Anything wrong, neighbors? Need any help?"

"No, we don't need any help," was the snarling answer.

"Nice night! 'I'm a temperance engine, don't you see--'"

In the corner by the cemetery, under a thick cluster of brush, stood a small group of men. As he approached, suddenly a shot was fired into the air. "Pretty dark night for target practice!" he hailed them. "'Oh, no, boys! Oh, no!'"

As his team cantered briskly by, another shot was fired into the air, another and another.

"'And the brewer's big horses can't run over me!'"

There were no more shots that nigh and there were no more threats in the days that followed.

A few nights later, after the family had retired, sleeping all over the place as was necessary, Jo in her cradle, the twins and I in trundle beds, and the rest distributed about in beds, on cots and couches, suddenly we were awakened by a dull yet resonant explosion in the cellar beneath us. We children crouched low in our beds and pulled the covers over our heads until Mother could come and take care of us. She came at once, she and Father having landed on their feet almost simultaneously with the explosion. Mother lighted a lamp and began a swift tour of the beds, counting noses, relieved to discover all intact. Father lighted a lantern, took his shotgun and went to the cellar.

A nondescript, home-made bomb had been tossed through the open cellar window and had exploded there. The was was shattered on one side. A wooden partition had collapsed. Pieces of the crude bomb were strewn about on the floor and Father brought some of them upstairs, to show the family.

"The liquor interests," he explained briefly. "Still trying to scare me out."

"Did you close the window?" Mother asked briskly, for she felt that some decisive action should be taken in every emergency.

He went down again and closed it, a futile precaution, since half the wall was blown out. He fastened the rusted padlock on the cellar door. Then he went outside with his lantern and shotgun and walked around the house and out to the stable for a look at his horses. He found no sign of prowlers.

For the first time, I believe for the only time, Mother locked the doors. She left a couple of lamps burning the rest of the night as a sort of hint to further intruders that we were all up and wide awake. She moved my trundle bed into her him, too, along with the twins' and with the baby's cradle.

"A nice way to bring up a family," she remarked exasperatedly as she got back into bed.

With all this burning fresh in her memory, it is a small wonder that she regarded with quiet equanimity the prospect of our removal from iniquitous saloons and various fast sets to the quiet culture and prohibition of Mount Pleasant. Even if we had to buy new furniture to equip the big parsonage, she counted it an expenditure well worth while. We were not so sure. We were willing to subject ourselves to culture in a mild way, but temperance rallies were by far the most exciting phase of the Lord's work.

"We'll still have camp meetings and revivals, won't we?" we asked wistfully, for if they, too, were to be taken from us, we would willingly have forgone the onward push of civilization.

"We'll have revivals," said Mother. "I'm not sure whether camp meetings will be dignified enough for Henry County."

Wakefields' "Good Run Almost Done"

2011-10-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Daily Iowegian – 14October 2011

-------------------------

Mysticnative’s memoir recounts town, family histories

ByBrooke Sherrard, Daily Iowegian

CENTERVILLE — Last Christmas time, Richardand Marianne Wakefield presented their family and friends with a special gift:a book of Richard’s memories about his life and the history of his hometown,Mystic.

Richard said it took him about six months towrite the book, which he titled “Good Run Almost Done.” Marianne typed it upand helped rework the prose.

The Wakefields had the book printed atArrowQuick Solutions on the Centerville Square. They said they checked theprice at a publishing company but would have had to order 250 copies, with amuch higher per-copy price.

The Wakefields submitted the text and photosto ArrowQuick Store Manager Sharon Mattly, who placed the photos for them.Unlike at a publishing company, they can have two or three more copies printedat any time. They said they have had about 80 copies printed so far.

Richard said one of the most important thingsfor him about writing the book was writing about Mystic.

“Growing up in Mystic was quite anexperience, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Richard said.

RichardWakefield holds a copy of his book

“Good Run Almost Done.”

Wakefield said hewanted to record his memories
of his life and the history of Mystic,
mainly forhis children and grandchildren.
Photo by BrookeSherrard/Daily Iowegian

In the book, Richard intersperses the storyof his life with the history of Mystic. In 1954, the Wakefields left Mysticwhen Richard took a job at a grocery store in Newton. For the next quartercentury, they moved around the state for Richard’s career managing grocerystores. His last remaining relative in Mystic moved away in 1970.

But even though they had left Mystic, in thebook Richard always comes back to what was going on in Mystic during eachperiod of their lives, including what businesses were opening or closing andwhat the population was. In the 1940 census,when Richard was 9, Mystic’s population was 1,884. By 1990, it had fallen to545. However, in 2000, the population had risen to 588, the first increaseRichard could remember.

During the same time period, the Wakefieldshave witnessed Centerville’s population shrink from about 8,000 to about 5,000.“It’s hard for small towns now,” Marianne remarked. “There’s no industry goinganywhere.”

In 1976, the Wakefields had the opportunityto return to the area because of the newly opened Easter’s grocery store at theLake Center Mall. Richard said he had several options but chose the new storein Centerville. So, on their 25th wedding anniversary in 1976, Richard andMarianne moved into the house in Centerville where they still live today.

“I had several places I could go, but Iwanted to come home,” he said.

Richard said he enjoyed returning toCenterville because most of the people he had known growing up in Mystic werestill around.

“About all of my classmates’ parents werealive and around,” he said. “They were old, but they came to the store andtraded.”

Richard said he had little difficulty writingthe book, especially because he had strong memories from his childhood.

Clarence Elmer Ervin, 1887-1977, married 1908, Grace Melissa Euwer, 1891-1973

2011-10-12T12:59:00.000-07:00

Clarence Elmer Ervin was born in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, on 17 May 1887, son of Francis Lewis Ervin and Julia Rosella Leonard, died in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 15 June 1977, and was buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA. Clarence married in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 28 October 1908, Grace Melissa Euwer who was born in Washington, Washington County, IA, 26 March 1891, daughter of Archibald N. Euwer and Nancy Jane Rowan, died in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 4 September 1973, and was buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA.

Clarence Elmer Ervin & Grace Melissa Euwer

50th Wedding Anniversary Picture

Three sons were born in this marriage:

(1) Rodney Leonard Ervin was born in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 7 July 1909, and died in Iowa City, Wright County, IA, 20 November 1948. Rodney married in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 3 August 1931, Mary Katherine Smith who was born in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 1 August 1910, daughter of George Milton Smith and Luella Sarah James, and died in Boone County, IA, 26 July 2000.

(2) Paul Leonard Ervin was born in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 16 December 1917, died in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 14 July 2001, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, IA. Paul married in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 24 December 1938, Dorothy Nadine Stagner who was born in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 12 July 1921, daughter of Clarence E. Stagner and Ila Ersel Patterson, died in Centerville, Appanoose County, IA, 9 August 2011, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery. Four sons were born in this union.

(3) Thomas Elmer Ervin was born in Cincinnati, Appanoose County, IA, 11 July 1922, and died in Glenwood, Mills County, IA, in 1932.

Clarence Elmer Ervin & Grace Melissa Euwer

Gravestone in Pleasant Hill Cemetery,

Appanoose County, Iowa

-----------------------------------------

The editor appreciates the contribution of the two photographs above to The Jerome Journal by Jimmy Ervin of Centerville, Iowa.

The information in this article is from two family trees on Ancestry.com which contain more extensive information and pictures on the Ervin family:

(1) Ervin-Euwer-Smith-Oviatt-Gill-Watkins-Rowan posted and owned by pamoviatt.

(2) MacConnell Family Tree posted and owned by Marcia Evberse.

There are several family trees on Ancestry.com which contain information, documents and pictures related to the Ervin family. The editor is not sure which family tree was the original source for the various documents and pictures.

Irish Folk Duo Keeps Traditional Music Alive

2011-10-10T14:55:00.001-07:00

Daily Iowegian - 10 October 2011

-------------------------

Irish Folk Duo Keeps Traditional Music Alive

By Brooke Sherrard

CENTERVILLE — A pair of area musicians iscreating interest in a centuries-old musical tradition.

Jacob Book, 20, and his wife, Autumn Book,21, make up the folk duo The Tenants, which specializes in traditional Celticfolk and seafaring music. Jacob plays guitar and Autumn plays the flute and thepennywhistle, a tin instrument that resembles a recorder.

Jacob is the son of David and Beverly Book,who in 1994 moved from the Ames area to a farm in Numa. He was homeschooled andspent much of his time as a youth traveling with his parents to French andIndian War reenactments. At the reenactments, David sells historicalreproductions related to that time period. Jacob just returned from a month oftraveling to four reenactments to help with his father’s store.

Interest in re-creating the French and IndianWar extended to music. After his grandparents gave him a guitar about 10 yearsago, Jacob began learning traditional folk music by playing with musicians atthe reenactments, including the folk band Father Son and Friends. In the nameof the band, Jacob explained, “Friends” meant anyone who joined in at aperformance.

Reenacting also brought Jacob and Autumn together.He met Autumn, who grew up in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, at a 2007reenactment in Youngstown, N.Y. After graduating from high school in 2008, sherelocated to Appanoose County to join him.

Though The Tenants play music related to whatone might have heard during the French and Indian War, much of it is from alater period. They said the music they play actually spans a 300-year period.

The songs “don’t sound exactly like theywould have sounded because they didn’t have guitars like this,” Jacob said. “Wejust play basically our modern renditions of these songs. The idea is to keepthe spirit of tradition and traditional music alive.”

In 2007, Jacob started toying with the ideaof recording traditional music he had learned. He recorded some songs on hisown. Then he met Autumn and they talked about starting a band. Along with athird member, Jake Moyle of Moravia, they started practicing in fall 2008.

On St. Patrick’s Day 2009, they played theirfirst show, at Vaudeville Mews in downtown Des Moines.

“We started playing and everybody walkedout,” Jacob said. “I was really discouraged.”

So the band members made some changes. Theyhad been using a full drum set and going for a rock sound. They decided tostrip everything down and attempt a more traditional sound, and it has beenworking.

“I don’t know if we’ve ever had anybody walkout on us anymore—unless they were going out to have a smoke,” Jacob joked.

Autumn and Jacob said they were particularlyhappy with the response they got from Pancake Day spectators despite theirearly morning time slot. Many people who had come early for pancakes ended upbeing drawn to The Tenants’ performance.

This past June, Moyle decided to leave theband.

“Right now it’s just her and I,” Jacob said,“but in the future I would like to have a bigger band because it helps whenyou’re playing live to round out the atmosphere.”

Iowa on the Civil War Battle Field

2011-10-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

Iowa on the Battle Field

Posted: 08 Oct 2011 03:55 PM PDT

A correspondent of an Eastern journal thus speaks of our State, in connection with the bravery of her sons on the field of battle at Pea Ridge, and of the German Patriotism:–
Opposed to them were the gallant sons of Iowa, descended mainly from the Puritan fathers. Immortal Iowa! what a page in the volume of American history is reserved for thee! Long, long will a nation remember how her champions of freedom, like their sires of the Revolution, ragged and barefooted, remained after the expiration of their term of service, to lay their lives a sacrifice upon the altar of their country at Wilson’s Creek; how they left their mark upon the foe at Belmont; how they scaled the heights of Donelson; and last but not least, how they crushed, with the might of Spartans, the advancing hordes at Sugar Creek, in the wilds of Arkansas. – There, too, stood the patient, courageous sons of Germany, face to face with an insolent and unprincipled foe, contending for those principles of liberty and justice for which they have until now striven in vain. Honor to these men and their great leader for the part they sustained in this momentous day.

–-Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, March 29, 1862, p. 2

----------------------------------

The above post is transcribed from the Civil War Notebook - a blog devoted to the history of the Civil War by Jim Miller.

JEROME JOURNAL UNDERTAKES THE DIGITIZATION OF THE HISTORIC NEWSPAPERS OF SEYMOUR

2011-10-07T13:03:00.000-07:00

The Jerome Journal is undertaking the digitization of the available historic newspapers of Seymour, including The Seymour Press (1890-1905), The Seymour Leader (1904-1906 & 1918), The Seymour Democrat (1906-1919), and The Seymour Herald (1918-Present).
The digitization project will use already microfilmed newspapers published prior to 2006, plus new microfilm of recent copies of The Seymour Herald published in 2006 through 2011. The 50 reels of microfilm will be scanned into an electronic database and made searchable with key words, phrases, or dates. The database will be available on the Internet in January 2012, without charge, to all researchers with Internet access.
Persons who will benefit include family and local historians and students looking for specific information about Seymour and the surrounding area in Wayne and Appanoose counties. This searchable newspaper archive will include all the articles, photos, birth announcements, engagement and wedding announcements obituaries, and advertisements, including The Pepper [the Seymour School newspaper], published in these historic Seymour newspapers.

A digitized copy of The Seymour Leader

published 18 May 1916

Advantages over the current use of the microfilm at the Seymour Community Library and other libraries and museums will be: (1) ability to search all editions of the newspapers over 130 years with key words, names, places, organizations, churches, and businesses, (2) ability to print articles of interest when found, (3) availability from any computer with Internet access for those unable to visit a library or museum with copies of the existing microfilms.
The digitization of the newspapers will be done by The Advantage Companies of Cedar Rapids which does similar work for the Iowa State Historical Society, including the safe storage of the ISHS collection of Iowa newspapers. Advantage will also develop, host and maintain the website on which the Seymour newspapers will be available. Advantage is also currently working with the Appanoose County Historical Society on the digitization of the available Centerville historic newspapers.
The Jerome Journal is seeking $3,000.00 in gifts toward the project. Bill Hawkins, editor/publisher of The Jerome Journal, will match every gift of $100.00 or more from individuals, businesses or organizations up to a total of $3,000 for gifts made before November 30, 2011. These combined gifts will provide the $5,300.00 needed to complete the newspaper project. If more funds are contributed, the additional gifts will be used to digitize additional records, documents and publications related to family and local history of the Jerome-Seymour area.
Donations, payable to "The Jerome Journal," can be sent to:
Attn: Bill Hawkins
The Jerome Journal
2909 Hemlock Farms
Lords Valley, PA 18428-9034

A digitized copy of The Seymour Herald

published 1 January 1953

The above Seymour Herald includes one of the weekly Jerome columns written by Miss Susie Sidles for over 25 years (over 1000 articles) which provide extensive information on families and organizations of the Jerome area. Several other weekly neighborhood columns appeared in the Seymour newspapers over the years. A wonderful resource for family and local historians.

If you have any questions about the project, please contact Bill Hawkins by phone at 570-775-7660 or by email at thehawk.bill@gmail.com.

------------------------

Download The Seymour Herald article and the two samples shown above from: The Seymour Herald - 6 October 2011.

American Legion Post #180's Veterans' Records

2011-10-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Community Library has a copy of the notebook compiled by the American Legion Post #180 in Seymour which contains Veteran's Records, Iowa Veteran Grave Registration Forms and, in some cases, obituaries and/or other newspaper clippings related to veterans. The notebook also contains an Every Name Index to Veteran Records & Veterans' Grave Registration Records. The index contains the names of the primary veterans for whom there are records in the notebook AND all other names that appear on the forms and/or newspaper clippings. Thus, for the persons identified in the Index there may be extensive information; but also the person in the Index may only be to a minor reference such as those mentioned in obituaries (i.e. pallbearers, flower girls, soloists, etc.).
The Seymour Community Library permitted me to have a copy made of the notebook for research purposes related to the Seymour-Jerome area. Persons may check the Every Name Index to Veteran Records & Veterans' Grave Registration Records for names they are researching. Anyone finding a person of interest may contact me for a copy of the related pages of the Notebook.
If you want a copy of any pages, please email me [thehawk.bill@gmail.com] and give me the name of the person and the pages identified in the Index for that person and I will attempt to provide you with a copy of those pages either directly or through a posting on The Jerome Journal.
Please take a look at the three pages related to Loren Webster Van Dorn Veteran's Notebook [Pages 192-194] which contain a Veteran's Record, an Iowa Grave Registration Form and obituary to get an idea of the information which might be available for a veteran.

Condra Family Holds 79th Reunion

2011-09-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 22 September 2011

---------------------------

The 79th annual Condra family reunion was held August 14 at the Motel 60 conference room in Centerville with a co-op dinner. Edith Brown was recognized in honor of her 90th birthday. A moment of silence was held in memory of Dan Condra who had passed away this year. The afternoon was spent visiting and researching family history. The 80th reunion will be held the second Sunday of August 2012.

Present were Marvin and Marilyn Condra of Unionville, Mo.; Harold Condra of Gladstone, Mo.; Carl Condra of Grain Valley, Mo.; Chris, Maribeth and Carly Condra of Blue Springs, Mo.; Duane and Judy Condra of Oak Grove, Mo.; John Condra of Kansas City, Mo.; Chuck and Ivy TGeater of Lenexa, Ks.; Tom and Terri Love of Olathe, Ks.; Marge Sutter of Ames; Gerald and Minnie Argo of Carlisle; Bryan and Katie McDanel and Ellen and Jeffrey of Monroe; Charles and Cassie Henderson and Abigayle and Austin of Seymour; Dwight Brown of Seymour; Elizabeth Conn, Edith Brown and Mary Louise Mathews of Centerville.

Loren Webster Van Dorn, 1894-1939

2011-09-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

Unidentified Obituary in Veteran's Record

of American Legion Post No. 180 - Seymour IA

of which he was a Charter Member

-----------------------------

Services at Wellman for Loren Van Dorn

Loren Webster Van Dorn was born in Appanoose county near Seymour, Iowa, September 27, 1894, and passed away at Knoxville, Iowa, Nov. 15, 1939 at the age of 45 years one month and 18 days. He was the eldest member of a family of seven children of George B. and Ellen Stoner Van Dorn. He was born and reared on the farm owned by his great grandfather, grandfather and father. He attended the rural school and later his parents moved nearer to Seymour to enable Loren and his brothers and sisters to attend the Seymour high school. From youth Loren applied himself very industriously to the tasks of the farm and studied most diligently in school.

After graduation from high school in 1913, he and his father and brother Noah operated the two stock farms in partnership.

On May 14, 1918, he entered the United States army at Centerville, Iowa. He served as private first class in the 313th Cavalry at Del Rio, Texas, and later in the 69th Field Artillery at Louisville, Kentucky. He was honorably discharged December 21, 1918. He resumed farming for several years and then entered the State University of Iowa where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1925. He was affiliated with the Phi Delta Gamma, a forensic fraternity and Rhoterian club, a debating society of which he served as president.

On June 10, 1925, he was united in marriage to Mary E. Shetler of Wellman, Iowa, at Greeley, Colorado. They established their home in Boulder, Colorado, where their only child, Rosalind Marie, was born Aug. 14, 1926. During the 12 years of residence in Colorado Loren attended the University of Colorado several terms where he took post graduate work, and he taught for eight years in various Colorado schools serving as athletic coach or principal.

For several years he operated a tire store and gasoline station in Boulder where Rosalind could receive proper medical treatment ... serious illness.

On May 26, 1937, he was called back to Seymour by the sickness and death of his father. He then decided to move back to the farm to operate it and take care of his mother.

In November, 1938, he was stricken down with a very serious illness known as Tularemia or "Rabbit Fever." For many months a high fever ravished his body, necessitating many surgical operations and hospitalization at various times. Gradually the fever subsided and he seemed to be on the road to recovery. He was always patient and hopeful that he would regain his health. Several weeks before his death he suffered a sudden relapse from which there seemed to be no apparent relief. It was decided best to move him to the Veterans Hospital at Knoxville for further care. He rapidly grew worse and passed away at 12 o'clock, Nov. 15, 1939. It was revealed that he suffered from acute Pericarditis of the heart.

His passing away is a severe shock to his many friends and relatives and an almost unbearable grief to his wife, mother and daughter, who have almost constantly ministered to his needs during his long illness. He will also be greatly missed by his many relatives, friends and neighbors for he possessed an unusually pleasant, kindly disposition. He was truly a learned man, a generous friend and a most devoted father, husband and son.

At Boulder, Colo., and in any school community he chanced to reside he took a most active part in Christian youth organizations. Always adhering to the principles of the Christ life, he rededicated his life to the furtherance of Christianity during his last illness.

He leaves to mourn his wife, daughter, mother, two brothers, Noah of Rock Island, Ill., Earl of Seymour, three sisters, namely Opal Fox of Davenport, Orpha Weist and Alpha Brown of Seymour and a host of relatives and friends.

The body was taken to Wellman, Iowa, for burial. Funeral services were held at the Baptist church Saturday, Nov. 18 at one o'clock. The Reverend Mr. and Mrs. Willis and Daniel Fisher conducted the services and a Mennonite ladies quartet rendered three beautiful selections. Six members of the American Legion served as pall bearers and the services at the grave were very impressive conducted by the Chas. Polton Post of the American Legion at the Wellman cemetery.

-------------------------

CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank those who so kindly sent flowers and otherwise aided so generously during the long illness and the death of our loved one.

Mrs. Mary E. Van Dorn and daughter Rosalind and Mrs. Ellen Van Dorn.
----------------------
Sources of Information

The information above is included on the Veteran's Record, Iowa Graves Registration Form, and obituary included in the Veteran's Notebook [Pages 192-194] compiled by the American Legion Post #180 of Seymour, Iowa.

Matilda 'Tilly' Micetich Vruble, 1915-2011

2011-09-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Ad-Express andDaily Iowegian

21 September2011

---------------------------------

NUMA — Matilda M. "Tilly" Vruble,96, of Numa, died Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011 at Golden Age Care Center inCenterville. She was born the daughter of Philip and Jakomina (Polich) MicetichJuly 4, 1915 in Martinstown near Numa. She received her education in the NumaCommunity Schools in Numa.

On July 29, 1933, Tilly was united inmarriage to Stanley Vruble, Sr. at the St. Mary's Parish in Centerville. Aftertheir marriage, they lived in Jerome for a time then moved to Chicago, Ill. Shewas a homemaker and enjoyed working at St. Elizabeth's Hospital. In 1957 theymoved to Melrose Park, Ill. where she would work part-time at JC Penny's. Theywere members of Sacred Heart Parish. They made several trips back to Jerome andCenterville area to visit family and friends. Beginning in the summer of 1972,they would spend summer time in Numa and they would spend winters in MelrosePark. In 1998, they would move back to Numa, where she would enjoy hergardening and was a member of the St. Mary's Parish in Centerville.

She was preceded in death by: her parents;husband, Stanley Vruble, Sr. on March 29, 1999; sisters, Mary Azzolin, AnnaVruble and Victoria Micetich; brothers, Phillip, Charley and Angelo Micetich.

Tilly is survived by: her sons, StanleyVruble, Jr. of Numa, Benedict Vruble of Wheaton, Ill., Ronald and his wife,Nancy Vruble of Aurora, Ill. and Kenneth Vruble of Wheaton, Ill.; a daughter,Marlene and her husband, William Snyder of Elmhurst, Ill.; five grandchildren;one great-grandson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Mass of Resurrection will be held Monday,Sept. 26 at 11 a.m. at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville with Fr.Dennis Schaab, CPP.S officiating. Burial will follow at the Oakland Cemetery inCenterville. Visitation will be held Sunday, Sept. 25 at the Schmidt FamilyFuneral Home in Centerville, from 2-8 p.m. with the family present from 6-8p.m. and a Rosary held a 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary's CatholicChurch and left or mailed to the funeral home.

The Schmidt Family Funeral Home ofCenterville is caring for the Vruble family at this time and condolences can besent at: schmidtfamilyfuneralhome.com.

An 1899-1900 Jerome Pupil Report Card

2011-09-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

In the records left to me by my aunt, Cadd Ruth Hawkins, was her report card from the Jerome School in 1899-1900. She appears to have been an excellent student. After completing the program in Jerome, Cadd attended and graduated from the School of Nursing at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital in Centerville.

Seymour High School - Class of 1913

2011-09-04T14:11:00.000-07:00

Seymour High School

15th Annual Commencement Exercises

--------------------------

I just came across in old family files saved by my aunt, Cadd Ruth Hawkins, an invitation to the 15th Annual Commencement Exercises of the Seymour High School for the Class of 1913, apparently sent to her by Loren W. Van Dorn, a member of the class, since his card was enclosed with the invitation.

Loren Webster Van Dorn was born 27 September 1894 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, son of George Brittain Van Dorn and Ellen Abigail Stoner. He was the grandson of Noah H. Stoner and Catherine Maddox and of Abraham S. Vandorn and Minerva Jan Vito. His parents and grandparents are all buried in the Jerome Cemetery.

World War I - Draft Registation Card

of Loren Webster Van Dorn of Seymour, Iowa

1913 Seymour High School Graduation Card

of Loren Webster Van Dorn

Invitation to the

1913 Seymour High School Commencement Exercises

May 22 and 23, 1913

George Richard Mincks, 1924-2011

2011-08-29T15:55:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald- 25 August 2011

-------------------------------

George Richard Mincks, 87, passed away peace-fully to be with the Lord Tuesday, August 16, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines following a tractor accident.

Richard was born in Jerome, Iowa to George and Ida (Morrison) Mincks, April 24, 1924. In 1943 he graduated from Seymour High School and was united in marriage to Genevieve Catherine Rash. To this union two children were born: Mary Catherine and Steven Richard.

George Richard Mincks

Richard lived his entire life in the Jerome-Seymour area pursuing his desired profession of farming. He served as a Monroe Township Trustee, a member of the Wayne County Fair Board, and a leader of the Walnut-Monroe Lone Tree 4-H Club. He was a long-time member of the United Methodist Church where he held numerous positions and enjoyed singing in the choir. He also enjoyed singing with the Coal Miners Choir.

He is survived by his daughter Mary Catherine (Gary) Couchman of Bella Vista, Arkansas and son Steven Richard Mincks and Bill Williams of Seymour; grandchildren Duane of Urbandale and Troy (Melanie) of Bella Vista, Arkansas; great-grandson Keith of Bella Vista, Arkansas; brother William (Donna) Mincks of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and sister-in-law Deloris Darrah of Seymour, Iowa. He leaves many loving nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

His loving wife Genevieve, sister-in-law Rowena Robinson and brothers-in-law Don Robinson and Eugene Darrah, preceded him in death.

Funeral services were held Monday, August 22 at the Seymour United Methodist Church with Reverend Mike Finn officiating.

Pianist was Mary Parker and vocalists were the United Methodist Church Choir and Milton Albertson.

Musical selections were “The Lord’s Prayer,” “My God and I,” “Amazing Grace,” and “Hard to Say Good-Bye.”

Bearers were Keith Couchman, Josh Wells, Todd Rider, Todd Robinson, Nathan Wells, and Nolan Wells.

Interment was in Southlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to the Seymour United Methodist Church.

-----------------------------

Picture of George Richard Mincks is from the Obituaries Section of the Daily Iowegian website posted on 19 August 2011.

Dorothy Nadine Stagner Ervin, 1921-2011

2011-08-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

Lange Funeral Homes

Centerville, Iowa

---------------------

Dorothy Ervin, age 90 of Centerville, Iowa died Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center, Centerville, Iowa.

Dorothy was born July 12, 1921 in Centerville, Iowa, the daughter of Clarence and Ila (Patterson) Stagner. She grew up in Centerville and attended local schools. Dorothy married Paul Ervin on December 24, 1938 in Bloomfield, Iowa. He preceded her in death in July of 2001.

She was a post mistress with the Jerome Post Office from 1952-1955. Following her tenure with the post office, Dorothy continued to help support her family’s farm as a farm wife. In 1971, Dorothy and Paul sold the family farm and at that time, she made the medical field her main source of income as a nurse’s aide.

Dorothy worked as a nurse’s aide for the Golden Age Care Center in Centerville for a short period before beginning her employment with Mercy Medical Center. She was employed with Mercy for thirteen years.

Following her retirement, Dorothy ran a flea market, along with supporting the family ambulance service.

She was a member of the Drake Avenue Christian Church in Centerville for many years. Furthermore, Dorothy ran the prayer chain for the church for ten years.

She is survived by her four children, Don (Karen) Ervin of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Max (Mary) Ervin of Centerville, Iowa, Bob (Connie) Ervin of Indianola, Iowa, and Jim (Cheryl) Ervin of Huxley, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and two half brothers, Delbert Davis of Des Moines, Iowa and Don Davis of Arkansas.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Paul Ervin; a brother Keith Stagner; and a half sister Evelyn McKelvogue.

Graveside funeral services will be held 11 AM, Friday, August 12, 2011 at the Jerome Cemetery in Jerome with Pastor Carl Heien officiating. A visitation will be held on Thursday at Lange Funeral Home in Centerville from 12PM-8 PM, with the family present from 6-8 PM. Memorials have been established to either the Mercy Medical Center Foundation or the Centerville American Legion- Post # 214 and may be left at Lange Funeral Home, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa, 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.

Dorothy and Paul Ervin's Gravestone

in the Jerome Cemetery
----------------------

The editor appreciates the contribution of the above updated gravestone picture by Jimmy Ervin of Centerville, Iowa.

Ethel Jones Lira, 1927-2011

2011-08-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Lange Funeral Home – Centerville, Iowa

4 August 2011

-----------------------------------

Ethel Lira, age 84 of Numa, Iowa passed away July 31, 2011 at the Centerville Nursing and Rehab Center in Centerville, Iowa.

Ethel was born March 9, 1927 in Centerville, Iowa, the daughter of Guy and Bessie (Sage) Jones. She grew up in Numa, Iowa and graduated from Numa High School. Ethel later married Ronnie P. Lira on March 9, 1947 in Numa. He preceded her in death on April 12, 1992.

She was very active throughout her lifetime, both in social organizations, as well as in numerous fields of employment. Ethel had short tenures of employment with both Centerville National Bank and Swift & Company.

Ethel worked with the Iowa State Employment Service (Iowa Workforce Development) from 1952-1993. In fact, she was the first woman to service five counties on a regular basis: Appanoose, Wayne, Davis, Monroe, and Lucas.

She spent many years writing a weekly column and special interest events for the Centerville Daily Iowegian.

Ethel also owned and operated a bookkeeping business from her home from 1955- 2005.

She was very active in the community throughout her life. Ethel was a member of DAR-Daughters of the American Revolution, the Appanoose County Historical Society, and the Appanoose County Genealogy Society. She was also a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Centerville.

Ethel is survived by her two grandchildren, Lee Lira of Dallas Center Grimes, Iowa and Amber (Raymond) Houser of Elkhart, Iowa; a brother Carl L. Jones of Bettendorf, Iowa; and two great grandchildren, Bryce Michael Houser and Kaitlyn Joy Houser both of Elkhart, Iowa; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ronnie P. Lira; a son Ron Lira; a sister Janice Kay Grenko; a stillborn baby John Phillip Lira in 1948; and many friends.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM, Friday, August 5, 2011 at Lange Funeral Home in Centerville, Iowa with Father Dennis Schaab officiating. Burial will follow in the Numa Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Thursday at Lange Funeral Home from 3-7 PM, with the family present from 5-7 PM. Memorials have been established to the Appanoose County Historical Society and may be left at or mailed to Lange Funeral Home, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa, 52544. Condolences may be left online at www.langefh.com.

Skylar McElvain Honored

2011-08-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald – 28 July 2011

--------------------------

Skylar McElvain, a SCHS graduate and freshman in the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department at Iowa State University, was selected to receive the Wessman Scholarship for the 2011-2012 school year. The Wessman Scholarship was established through the estate of John and Helen Wessman. Mr. Wessman was a 1941 Agricultural Engineering graduate of Iowa State. The scholarship is based on scholastic accomplishments and aptitude.

McElvain will be recognized at the department’s Parent/Student Banquet in April 2012. The Iowa State University Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department, which was the first Ag Engineering Department in the nation, celebrated their 100^th anniversary in 2005 and offers degrees in Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Systems Technology, and Industrial Technology. To learn more, visit www.abe.iastate.edu.

He is the son of James and Melinda McElvain.

------------------------------

HeartlandConnection.com

Posted 17 April 2009

----------------------

Scholar of the Week: Skylar McElvain

SEYMOUR, IOWA -- Skylar McElvain of Seymour High School has an interest in agriculture, theatre, and even baseball. And he is actively involved in his community.

"Well I like being in a small school because you...know everybody and I think you get a better education because you can work with the teachers better," said Skylar.

He received top honors at state level for an expository address, and he has also performed on his high school stage.

"The one was about a kidnapping," said Skylar, "where the child they kidnap for ransom, the kidnappers actually get driven crazy and actually pay to get rid of her!"

His post-graduation life is set...and awaiting him.

"Yeah, I'm planning to go to Indian Hills, enrolled in the Arts & Sciences program and then I plan to transfer to Iowa State, and get a degree in Agricultural Engineering," said Skylar.

"Skylar is an excellent student," said Agriculture Science Teacher, Stephanie Lukavsky. "He's very self-driven, always wants to do a good job. But when he needs help, then he will ask for it, so that's always good in a student."

Skylar also has advice for those students working to achieve academic and personal success.

"Pay attention in class...and do the work, and that’s all you really need to do. And then the rest will just come to you," said Skylar.

"I could definitely see him pursuing something with the Ag business side of things because he is really good in school and with numbers...I think he will be very successful," added Lukavsky.

Seymour's Old Settlers Celebration

2011-07-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 14 July 2011

-----------------------------

Excerpts from Keepin' In Touch by Vickie

Our weekend weather for Old Settlers couldn't have been much better. With a bit of a breeze, the warm temperature didn't seem so bad, especially if you could stay in the shade.

Our annual celebration is a very good example of donation of time and talent by many volunteers. If it weren't for the work of so many people, the entire event just couldn't happen. There are just so many people involved, it would be nearly impossible to name them all. People observing our community just can't say enough good comments about how well Seymour does at putting our celebration together. So "Job Well Done" to ALL involved!

2012 will be our 3rd effort of an All School Reunion for Old Settlers to be the second Saturday of July which will be July 14th weekend. The Harl Reunion now coordinates with Old Settlers each year, so members of that family can enjoy several attractions while in the area.

Plans are already in the works for next year's celebration. Mark your calendars for July 13-15, 2012 Old Settler's/All School Reunion and suggestions, ideas and volunteers WELCOME!

I think the McElvain family coordinates their reunion with Old Settlers, so several of that family (Harold's kids and families) gathered at the local cabins and enjoyed the weekend together.

Somehow Seymour people always enjoy out of town guest who like our town. College friend of Caleb Housh says Old Settlers is his favorite weekend of the year. Simple pleasures of life are some of the most enjoyed.

Olivia Power told her grandmother, Jill Housh, that Old Settler's is her "FAVORITE holiday of the year!"

70th Annual John & Christina Rigler Harl Reunion

2011-07-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 14 July 2011

---------------------------

Descendants of John T. and Christina Rigler Harl met at the Seymour Community Center Sunday, July 10, for the 70th annual Harl Reunion.

Arthur Bryant asked the blessing on the potluck dinner. Following the dinner, President Lynn Holdeman conducted the business meeting. Reports were given by family members and for family members who could not be present. Family photos and memorabilia were shared and displayed.

New officers elected to serve for the 2012 Harl reunion are Ray Cook, president; Don Bryant, vice president; and Elaina Tuttle, secretary-treasurer. Tentative date for the 2012 reunion is Sunday of the Seymour Old Settlers celebration.

Twenty eight persons registered for the day. They were Don and Millie Kerr of Bella Vista, Ark., Don and Sue Bryant of Jackson, Tn., Dr. Neil and Darlene Harl of Ames and their guests, Dick and Faye Mullenix of Red Oak, Arthur and Mary Jane Bryant of Indianola, Dennis and Elaina Tuttle and Sherry and Randy Middlebrook of Corydon, Brian and Lynn Holdeman of Madrid, Carolyn Wickam, Ray and Shirley Cook, Henry, Barbara and Ruth Adams, Devon, Heather, Ashlynn and Landen Sharp, and Wendy and Rich Choponis of Seymour.

Newton Robert Scott, Private, 36th Iowa Infantry

2011-07-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

Letters Home from an Iowa Soldier in the Civil War

Newton Robert Scott, Private,

Company A, 36th Iowa Volunteer Infantry

--------------------------

These letters are part of a collection written by Newton Robert Scott, Private, Company A, of the 36th Infantry, Iowa Volunteers. Most of the letters were written to Scott's neighborhood friend Hannah Cone, in their home town of Albia, Monroe County, Iowa, over the three year period that he served as Company A's clerk. The final letter, describing the long-awaited mustering out in August of 1865, was written to his parents.

Scott's letters to Hannah are filled with rich details of the war and the living conditions in the Union camps in Mississippi, Missouri, Iowa and Arkansas. He tells of the terrible diseases that took a heavier toll than Confederate bullets, and the soldiers' frustration and impatience with the politicians in Washington.

Newton Robert Scott

Not only do we get a clerk's detailed account of the activities of Company A and the "boys of Monroe County," we also get a glimpse into the emotions of a 21-year-old farm boy uprooted from his family, friends, and sweetheart. In spite of his obvious education and proper upbringing, his polite prose sometimes gives way to impatience and sarcasm as he acknowledges Hannah's accounts of the many fairs, socials, and weddings taking place at home. Indeed he must endure the most embittering news of all when he is told that his sweetheart, "darling Hattie" has forsaken him to marry another.

Even though Scott & his comrades prayed for a Confederate surrender before their three year enlistment was completed, they were to serve the full term and were sent home five months after Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse.

The story does not end here. A year after returning home Scott married Hannah, his faithful correspondent, with whom he raised nine children. Newton and Hannah lived long, productive lives. Hannah raised her family and died of heart failure at 69. Newton was a mail clerk for the railroad for 41 years. He died a peaceful death at 83.

------------------------------

Above text and picture from the website of Letters Home from an Iowa Soldier in the Civil War written by Linda Proudfoot. The website was developed by Bill Proudfoot, a librarian at West Valley College in Saratoga, California.

Forty-Plus Descendants of Jason Lawrence and Cecil McElvain Gathered for Weekend Reunion

2011-07-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 14 July 2011

----------------------------

The descendants of Jason Lawrence and Cecil McElvain gathered for a weekend reunion. There were forty three for dinner Sunday at Walden Park Clubhouse in Corydon.

Attending were Paul and Helen McElvain, Terry and Janice McElvain of Centerville, Chris and Kaley McElvain and Adalynn of Homestead, Ia., Bonnie and Hugo Keyner of Tuscon, Az., John and Marcella McElvain of Council Bluffs, James and Melinda McElvain and Skylar and Austin of Corydon, Dave and Shelly and Savannah McElvain Seymour, Brady McElvain of Cedar Falls, Chase and Tia McElvain of Corydon, James and Virginia Berner of Waukee, Steve and Jodie Welsh and Branden and Taylor of West Des Moines, Kenny and Pam McElvain of Liberal, Ks., Brad and Stacey McElvain and Elliott and Alex of Holt, Mo., John and Christie Nowak of Topeka, Ks., MJ and Jeanie McElvain of Ames, Heather Spangler and Annabelle of Cedar Rapids, Melissa and Adam Blank of DeWitt, Ia., and Cindy Inman of St. Louis, Mo.

Franklin Baptist Church Open House Well Attended

2011-07-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 14 July 2011

----------------------------

A large number of persons attended the open house at the Franklin Baptist Church of Livingston in Franklin Township, Appanoose County, IA, Sunday afternoon, July 10.

The church has recently been renovated and restored using as much of the original church as was possible with era specific renovation where needed.

During removal of the old floor covering, the original baptistery was discovered and was opened for display during the open house. The bell, which is housed in the bell tower, was rung at the beginning of the event. The pews used in the building were gifts from the Numa Christian Church when it closed several years ago. Gifts of a 1913 era pump reed organ and a communion table which were used in the 1860s Heartland Church from north of Ottumwa were given by Richard and Faye Mullenix of Red Oak. The Mullenixes were present at the open house. Mrs. Mullenix played hymns on the organ during the afternoon and at times accomanied her husband and Don and Art Bryant as they sang.

Plans are for the building to be used for church activities and other events in the future.

Jerome UMC Bluegrass Music/Barbeque

2011-07-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 14 July 2011

-----------------------------

There will be bluegrass, gospel music and a barbeque Sunday, July 17. A free will donation will be taken.

On the menu will be pulled pork and beef, potato salad, baked beans, chips, salad, cookies, melon and drink.

The music will be bluegrass gospel music by the Exline family, Jerry Vinden and family, Tasha Irving and Fine Line Bluegrass.

Jerome Cemetery: New Section, Block 20, Lot 12 -- Clarence Ridgeway & Mae Bell (Brinkley) Porter

2011-07-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Jerome Cemetery - New Section

Block 30, Lot 12, Row 4

---------------------------------

Clarence Ridgeway Porter was born 31 August 1888 in Appanoose County, Iowa, son of Charles E. Porter and Louise Addie Ridgeway, died 26 June, 1974, in Eldora, Hardin County, Iowa, and was buried 29 June 1974 in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, following funeral services at the Liggett-Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa. He married 15 March 1911 in Appanoose County, Iowa, Mae Bell Brinkley who was born 17 May 1889 in Franklin Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, daughter of Charles Brinkley and Laura Mae Farmer, died 10 June 1966 at St. Joseph Hospital in Centerville, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 12 June 1966 in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, following funeral services at the Liggett Funeral Home in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa. Three children were born to this marriage: Velma Marie Porter, Charles W. Porter and Joe C. Porter.

Gravestone of Clarence R. & Mae Bell Porter

in the Jerome Cemetery

Back of Gravestone of

Clarence R. and Mae Bell Porter

in the Jerome Cemetery

Children of Clarence R. Porter & Mae Bell Brinkley

2011-07-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Benton Courier - Arkansas - 19 March 2007

---------------------------

Velma Marie Porter Shook Panyk, 1912-2007

Velma Marie Panyk, 94, of Benton died Saturday, March 17, 2007. She was born May 15, 1912, in Centerville, Iowa to Clarence and Maebelle Porter.

Mrs. Panyk was a medical aide and a member of the Rebekah Lodge for 25 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Survivors include two sons, George Phillips of Benton and Robert Phillips and wife, Jane, of West Point, Calif.; two daughters, Imajean Ruth Welch and husband, Don, of Washington and Marietta Perman of Kenosha, Wis.; and 11 grandchildren.

Private memorial services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Ashby Funeral Home of Benton.

-----------------------------------

Ad-Express/Iowegian - May 1992

-------------------------------

Charles W. Porter, 1914-1992

Charles W. Porter, 77, of Rockford, formerly of this area, died at his home Sunday, May 24, 1992.

He was born Aug. 19, 1914, in Exline, to Clarence and Mae Brinkley Porter. He married Eunice E. Geringer in Des Moines Dec. 26, 1934. She survives.

Also surviving are nine sons, Jimmie (Mary) of Rockford, Clarence (Julie) of Littleton, Colo., Charles L. of Marengo, Ill., Harold (Bonita) of Rockford, Clyde (Judy) of Rockford, Michael (Sharon) of Rockford, Richard of N. Little Rock, Ark., Steve (Cathy) and Jeffery, both of Rockford; two daughters, Barbara (Jim) Shelton of Rockford and Kathy (Robin) Cleayssen of Machesney Park, Ill.; 21 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, Joe; a sister, Velma of Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by a son, Raymond LeRoy.

He was a Rockford resident since 1939 moving from Mystic. He was a machinist and welder at George D. Roper for 22 years. He had also worked at Greenlee Tool, retiring in 1977.

Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 1992, at New Milford Cemetery. Friends may call from noon until 1 p.m. at the Fred C. Olson Mortuary.

-----------------------------------------

Daily Iowegian - 11 July 1996

-----------------------------

Joe C. Porter, 1916-1996

Joe C. Porter, son of Clarence and Mae Belle (Brinkley) Porter, was born October 5, 1916 in Exline, Iowa. He passed away Sunday, July 7, 1996 at the Marion Health Center in Sioux City, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 9 months and 2 days.

He was married to Lois Marshall on February 14, 1939 in Unionville, Mo., and to this union two children were born, Tommy Lee and JoEllen.

Joe was employed in trucking and farming in the Udell and Iowa Falls area. He and his wife have traveled extensively since retiring in 1989. He attended the First Baptist Church when he was younger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Charles; and a son, Tommy Lee Porter.

Survivors include his wife, Lois of Yuma, Az.; his daughter, JoEllen Porter of Caroline, Wis.; a sister, Velma Panyk of Benton, Ark.; plus numerous coursins and other relatives.

Funeral services were held Friday, July 12, 1996 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Christian Church in Mystic with Rev. Carl Heien officiating. The hymns "Whispering Hope" and "In The Garden" were sung by Sharon Heien, accompanied by Clara Swab, pianist.

Pallbearers were Kermit Brinkley, Garner Cleaver, Erman Long, Sr., Joe Maddaleno, Milo Snider and Larry Spurgeon. Interment was in the Highland Cemetery in Mystic.

A memorial was established to the cemetery in his memory. Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour was in charge of arrangements.

------------------------------------

The editor is sincerely appreciative of the contribution of the above obituaries to The Jerome Journal by Jo Porter of Denver, Iowa.

Mae Bell Brinkley Porter, 1889-1966

2011-07-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - June 1966

-------------------------

May Porter, 76 of Seymour Dies

Mrs. Mae Porter, 76, of Seymour passed away at the St. Joseph hospital at Centerville, Friday after a short period of hospitalization.

Surviving are her husband, Clarence; a daughter, Mrs. Velma Shook of West Union, Wis., two sons, Charles of Rockford, Ill., and Joe of Iowa Falls; eight brothers and sisters, John and Charles Brinkley of Promise City, Merle Swan of Seymour; Goldie Shriver of Centerville; Raymond Brinkley of Davenport; Anna Reed of Clearfield; Ida Gray of Ottumwa and Roy Brinkley of Rockford, Ill.

Funeral services were held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. from the Liggett Funeral home at Seymour. Burial was in the Jerome cemetery.

--------------------------

Mrs. Porter Had Long Illness

Funeral was Sunday at Liggett Funeral home for Mrs. Clarence Porter, 76, who died at St. Joseph hospital Friday where she had been a patient four days. She had been in failing health for several years and was a patient at Chariton and Corydon nursing homes before entering the hospital.

She is survived by her husband, a retired rural mail carrier; one daughter, Mrs. Velma Shook of West Union, Wisc., two sons, Charles of Rockford, Ill., and Joe of Iowa Falls, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mrs. Cor Swan of Seymour and John and Charley Brinkley of Promise City are among her surviving sisters and brothers.

Rev. Sidney Sloan of Centerville and Rev. Vera Riley of Seymour officiated at the funeral and burial was in Jerome cemetery. Mrs. James Anderson Jr. sang the requested hymns, accompanied by Mrs. Harlie Merritt. Palbears were Milo Snider, Clinton Swan, Kenneth Swan, Lloyd Brown, Perry McKee and George Phillips.

-----------------------------------

Mae Brinkley Porter

Mae Bell Brinkley Porter was born in Franklin township, Appanoose county, Iowa, May 17, 1889. She was the oldest of nine living children of Charles and Laura Farmer Brinkley. As her brothers and sisters, Ida, John, Myrle, Roy, Charley, Goldie, Raymond and Anna, were five or six years younger, she was needed as chore boy by her father to help him with the cattle, make fence and many other things such as loading a ton of loose hay on a wagon hay rack to take to town from time to time.

Since her mother helped put in the field crops, Mae prepared the meals and took care of the younger children.

Mae's Grandmother Brinkley acted as a mid-wife at a time of the stork's arrival and instructed her granddaughter, Mae. She was called to come to many neighbors' homes to help with the housework or duties and like her grandmother, she became a very efficient helper at a time when a new baby came into the home.

Early in her life she was a very helpful citizen in her community. In her childhood years, she was so busy there wasn't much time for day school. However, her keen mind had taught her a multitude of essential things of life.

On March 15, 1911, she united in marriage with Clarence R. Porter, and to this union three children were born: a daughter, Velma; a son, Charles; and a son, Joe.

Mae was the grandmother of 16 and had 16 great-grandchildren. After her own children were of school age, she was elected as director of Masters School in Bellair township. During her tenure of 13 years, she was instrumental in bringing the poorly-organized, porrly-equipped school to a state standardized school. She helped organize a PTA which cooperated in buying the necessary equipment for the school. Later, directors allowed beginner teachers to be employed and by so doing, destroyed the good credentials of the Masters school district.

Early in life she united with the Methodist Wesley Chapel Church. Incidentally, the frame structure church burned own and was never rebuilt.

Left to mourn her passing are her husband, children, sisters and brothers, nieces and nephews, and a host of relatives and friends. She was a loving mother, a kind and helpful, loving companion.

----------------------------------

The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above obituaries by Jo Porter of Denver, Iowa.

Clarence Ridgeway Porter, 1888-1974

2011-07-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 4 July 1974

------------------------

Clarence Ridgeway Porter, son of Charles and Addie Porter, was born in Appanoose County, Iowa, Aug. 31, 1888, and died June 26, 1974, at Eldora, Iowa.

On March 15, 1911, he was united in marriage to Mae Brinkley. She passed away June 10, 1966. To this union were born three children, Velma Shook of Benton, Ark., Charles Porter of Rockford, Ill., and Joe Porter of Iowa Falls.

In early life Porter farmed and taught school. Later he was a rural letter carrier at Mystic and served 36 years until retirement. In 1961 the Porters moved to Seymour.

He was active in school and church work and was a member of the Evangelical United Brethren church of Seymour. He was a good neighbor and always willing to help others.

He is survived by his three children, 16 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, three sisters, Louise Porter of California, Gladys Wailes of Centerville and Grace Rose of Cincinnati.

He was married to Edna Kinney Aug. 3, 1968, and she died in 1969.

Funeral was Saturday, June 29, at the Liggett-Randolph Funeral home in Seymour with interment in Jerome cemetery. Grandsons were pallbearers.

-----------------------------

The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above obituary by Jo Porter of Denver, Iowa.

Jerome Cemetery: New Section, Block 18, Lot 8, South Half -- Edgar Walter Stone & Lora Alice Carter

2011-07-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

Jerome Cemetery - New Section

Block 18, Lot 8, South Half

---------------------

Edgar Walter Stone and his wife, Lora Alice Carter, are buried in the South Half, Lot 8, Block 18 of the New Section [Row 3] of the Jerome Cemetery.

Edgar Walter Stone was born 5 October 1910 in Achillis, Rawlins County, Kansas, son of Samuel Stone [1879-1941] and Clara Maude Burns [1882-1932], died 9 October 1985 at the Wayne County Hospital in Corydon, Wayne County, Iowa, and was buried 12 October 1984 in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, following memorial services at the Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa. He married 29 May 1936 in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, Lora Alice Carter.

Lora Alice Carter was born 26 October 1911 in Dannebrog, Howard County, Nebraska, daughter of Ambrose Geohegan Miles Carter [1869-1944] and Cora Alice Meader [1869-1970], died 1 August 1994 at the Lucas County Health Center, Chariton, Lucas County, Iowa, and was buried 3 August 1994 in the Jerome Cemetery, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, following memorial services at the Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa.

Gravestone of

Edgar Walter and Lora Alice (Carter) Stone

in Row 3 of the Jerome Cemetery

Back of Gravestone of

Edgar Walter and Lora Alice (Carter) Stone

in Row 3 of the Jerome Cemetery

Nettie Crouch Stoner, 1897-1987

2011-07-22T17:22:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 8 September 1987

--------------------------

Funeral services for Nettie Stoner, 89, were held Sept. 2 at 1:30 p.m. from the Randolph Funeral Home, Seymour, with John Lewis officiating. Hymns "Nailed to the Cross" and "Accepted in the Beloved" were sung by Ed Kerwin, accompanied by Bernace Kerwin.

Pallbearers were: Larry Stanton, Steve Sprouse, John Wright, K. E. Owen, Bob Schaffner and Paul McElvain. Burial was in the Jerome Cemetery. There was a memorial to the Wayne County Home Health Aide Agency.

Nettie Crouch Stoner, daughter of Alfred B. and Mary Clayton Crouch, was born at Rawlins, WY, Nov. 14, 1897, and died at the Wayne County Hospital, Corydon, Aug. 31 at the age of 89 years, 9 months, 17 days.

When she was a child, the family moved to Iowa where she met and married Elmer H. Stoner May 5, 1921, at Walnut City. The couple farmed in the Jerome area for many years. After moving to Seymour, she worked in restaurants and babysat as long as her health permitted. She remained in her own home until the last six months which she spent in the Seymour Care Center.

The Stoners had three children: Esther Blance, Dorotha Marie and Vera Colleen.

As a young woman she accepted Christ as her personal Savior and was affiliated with the Gospel Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer H.; her parents; one daughter, Vera Colleen who died in infancy; brothers: Lloyd, Arthur B. and Clarence Crouch; two sisters: Lottie and Dorotha; and one son-in-law, Virgil Ellis.

Survivors include daughters: Blanche and husband Ed Horne, Allerton; Marie and husband Jim Stanton, Seymour; three grandchildren: Connie and husband Steve Lucas, Casa Grade, AZ; Larry and wife Mary Stanton, West Liberty; and Marlene and husband Steve Sprouse, Centerville.

Also surviving are one sister, Katie Stoner; two sisters-in-law, Ethel Crouch and Lillian Crouch; three great-grandchildren, Beau Sprouse, and Lucas and Caitlin Stanton; and John Wright whom she cared for as a child.

--------------------------

Additional Sources of Information

Myers/McCorkle/Stier Family Tree posted and owned by juliestier_1 on Ancestry.com.

1900 US Census-NE-Merrick-Central City-District 136-Image 7 on Ancestry.com.

1910 US Census-IA-Appanoose-Lincoln-District 21-Image 3 on Ancestry.com.

1915 Iowa Census-Appanoose-Lincoln-Image 217 on Ancestry.com.

1920 US Census-IA-Appanoose-Franklin-District 22-Image 9 on Ancestry.com.

1925 Iowa Census-Appanoose-Lincoln-Image 31, 32 and 33 on Ancestry.com.

1930 US Census-IA-Appanoose-Lincoln-District 17-Image 6 on Ancestry.com.

SSDI on Ancestry.com: Nettie Stoner, SSN 484-22-2016 issued Iowa (Before 1951), born 14 Nov 1897, died Aug 1987, Last Residence: 52590 Seymour, Wayne, Iowa, USA.

Edgar Walter Stone, 1910-1985

2011-07-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

Seymour Herald - 26 September 1985

------------------------

Edgar Stone was born October 5, 1910 at Achillis, Kansas, the son of Clara Burns and Samuel Stone. He passed away October 9, 1985 at the Wayne County Hospital in Corydon at the age of 75 years and 4 days.

As a very small boy the family moved to Summer, Nebraska where they lived for a year before buying at Amherst, Nebraska where he received his schooling and was living when he married Lora Carter at Grand Island, Nebraska. They spent a few years there farming during the depression. In 1940 he rented his uncle Charley Burns farm at Jerome, Iowa and worked at the mine. In 1968 they bought their present farm and have resided there since.

Preceding him were his parents, a baby sister, and three brothers, Carl, Raymond and Lee.

Edgar leaves his wife Lora, son Harold and wife Sharon, three grandchildren; Wanita and Michael Gibbs of Promise City, Iowa; Annette of Canton, Missouri; and Peter stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina; and one great granddaughter Trenna. Also two brothers Roy of Multon [Moulton], Iowa and Ernest of Elm Creek, Nebraska, two sisters Opal Ludwig of Browning, Missouri and Margaret Epp of Kearney, Nebraska and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Services were held on Saturday, October 12, 1985, at 1:30 P.M. from the Raldolph Funeral Home in Seymour with Corliss Fry, officiating. Organ selections "The Old Rugged Cross" and "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" were played. The pall bearers were Michael Gibbs, Ronnie Ludwig, Larry Ludwig, Dean Ludwig, Jerry Ludwig and Sam Stone.

Interment was in the Jerome Cemetery at Jerome, Iowa.

------------------------------

Additional Resource Information

"Family Tree of Edgar A Stone" on OneWorldTree on Ancestry.com.

1910 US Census-KS-Rawlins-Achilles-District 0151-Image 1.

1920 US Census-NE-Dawson-Wood River-District 116-Image 21 and 22.

1930 US Census-NE-Buffalo-Grant-District 18-Image 3.

SSDI on Ancestry.com for Edgar Stone, SSN 507-14-8143 issued Nebraska (Before 1951), born 5 Oct 1910, died Oct 1985, Last Residence: 52589 Selma, Van Buren, Iowa, USA.

William W. Baxter & Elizabeth R. Rodgers Family

2011-07-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

William W. Baxter was born 27 February 1868 in Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland, son of William Baxter [1830-1897] and Helen McNeil [1835-1878] and died 31 August 1958 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois. He married 7 September 1902 in Centerville, Appanoose County, Iowa, Elizabeth Russell Rodgers who was born 13 February 1881 in Huntsville, Randolph County, Missouri, daughter of John R. Rodgers [1844-1925] & Grace Goldie Liddell [1858-1923] and who died 16 October 1964 in Havana, Mason County, Illinois.
William and Elizabeth moved to Jerome in 1901 and lived in Jerome until 1921 when they moved to Canton, Fulton County, Illinois. William was a miner. Elizabeth was still a member of the Believers Church in Jerome at the time of her death.

William W. & Elizabeth R. Baxter

To this union thirteen children were born:

(1) Helen "Ellen" Baxter was born 19 January 1901 in Seatonville, Bureau County, Illinois, died 11 January 1990 in Graytown, Missouri, and was buried in the Floral Hill Mauseleum, Kansas City, Missouri. She married in Kansas City, Jackson County, Missouri, in 1926, Carl Dewey Whitney who was born 31 March 1898 in Norborne, Carroll County, Missouri, son of Reason Oscar Whitney and Nettie Stouffer and died 26 August 1972 in Kansas City, Jackson County, Missouri. Their last residence was in Kansas City, Jackson County, Missouri.

(2) Grace Baxter was born 3 September 1903 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 21 August 1916 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 22 August 1916 in the Jerome Cemetery. [Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990 on FamilySearch.org: Source Film Number: 1673930]

(3) William Robert Baxter was born 3 August 1905 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 11 December 1960 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, and was buried in Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, Illinois. He married 20 April 1925 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, Goldie Belle Lance who was born 11 January 1902 in Breeds, Fulton County, Missouri, the daughter of Charles Henry Lance [1871-1941] and Minnie Mae Anderson [1873-1962], and died 14 December 1967 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. Three children were born to this union: Joyce Baxter, Phillip Clair Baxter and William Charles Baxter.

(4) Margaret Alice Baxter was born 8 February 1907 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 5 March 1974 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, and was buried in Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. She married Lloyd A. Wright [1901-1964]. [Iowa Births and Christenings, 1830-1950 on FamilySearch.org: Source Film Number: 1007186 and Social Security Death Index on Ancestry.com]

(5) John Robinson Baxter was for 25 November 1908 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 12 March 1952 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, and was buried in the Springdale Cemetery, Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois. He married Goldie J. Bath who was born 8 February 1913 in Dunfermline, Fulton County, Illinois, daughter of William Bath and Myrtle Politt, and who died 20 November 2006 in East Peoria, Tazewell County, Illinois. Three children were born of this union.

(6) Ruth Evelyn Baxter was born 9 November 1910 in Jerome, Appanoose County, Iowa, married 19 December 1958 in Oklahoma J. D. "Blacky" McKinney who preceded her in death, died 21 December 1997 at the Prairie View Care Center in Lewistown, Fulton County, Illinois, and was buried in White Chapel Memory Gardens [ORC Lot 125, Section C, Space1 ] in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois.

(7) Lucile Esabell Baxter was born 18 May 1916 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 7 February 1917 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 7 February 1917 in the Jerome Cemetery. [Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990 on FamilySearch.org: Source Film Number: 1673930]

(8) Neil Rodger Baxter was born 9 December 1917 in Jerome, Appanoose County, Iowa; died 10 February 2004 at Graham Hospital Extended Care in Canton, Illinois; and was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery. He married 5 January 1969 in Bryant, Fulton County, Illinois, Mary Ellen Lacefield who was born 28 August 1928, died 24 June 2000, and was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery.

(9) Ulah Maxine Baxter was born 20 March 1920 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 1 July 2011 in East Peoria, Tazewell County, Illinois, and was buried in White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois. She married on 1 October 1938 in Fort Madison, Lee County, Iowa, Stanko Matayo who was born 13 November 1914 in Illinois, died 9 October 2001 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, and was buried in White Chapel Memory Gardens.

Neil and Maxine Baxter as Children

(10) Kenneth George Baxter was born 16 April 1922 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, died 20 April 1983 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, and was buried in the Park Hill Cemetery, Bloomington, McLean County, Illinois. He married 28 December 1947 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, Margaret J. Collie who was born 25 February 1920 in Bloomington, McLean County, Illinois, daughter of John C. Collie and Allie Westerfield, died 16 September 2003 in Winter Haven, Polk County, Florida.

(11) Keith Malcomb Baxter was born 16 April 1922 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, died 29 February 1960 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, and was buried in the White Chapel Cemetery, Canton, Fulton County, Illinois.

(12) Shirley Jeanette Baxter was born 11 November 1923 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois; died 13 March 1997 in Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada, and was buried in Parkview Cemetery in Peoria, Illinois. She married 18 May 1947 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, Earl A. Davis who was born 10 December 1917 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, son of Charles A. and Pearl Simpson Davis, and died 6 January 2001 at the Life Care Center in Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada.

(13) Dorothy Jane Baxter was born 25 May 1925, in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, died 13 October 1925 in Canton, Fulton County, Illinois, and was buried in the Greenwood Cemetery, Canton, Fulton County, Illinois.

-----------------------------

The Baxter Family Tree on Ancestry.com, posted and owned by JeepGirl2010, and the Martin Family Tree on Ancestry.com, posted and owned by charlesmartin86, provided much of the above basic information and pictures on the Baxter-Rodgers Family, supplemented by information from obituaries, census records, the Social Security Death Index, vital records on FamilySearch.org and gravestones in the Jerome Cemetery.
Scotland Births and Baptisms, 1564-1868 - Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland [FamilySearch.org]: William Baxter, male, born 27 Feb 1868, at Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland, son of William Baxter and Hellen Mcneil, Indexing Project (Batch) Number: C11662-1, System Origin: Scotland-ODM, Source Film Number: 6035516.
1871 Scotland Census on Ancestry.com: Wm Baxter, 4, son of Wm and Ellen Baxter, living at 2 Simpson's Land in Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland.
1881 Scotland Census on Ancestry.com: William Baxter, 14, coal miner, son of William and Mary Baxter, living at 27 & 28 Balquhatson Rows, Slamannan, Stirlingshire, Scotland.
New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957 on Ancestry.com: William Baxter, age 19, male, miner, Place of Origin: Scotland, arrived 12 May 1887 on State of Nebraska, departed Glasgow, Scotland and Larne, Ireland.
Iowa Marriages, 1809-1992 [FamilySearch.org]: William Baxter, 34, born 1868, married 7 Sept 1902, Appanoose County, Iowa, Elizabeth Rodgers, 22, born 1880, Indexing Project (Batch) Number: M02551-5, System Origin: Iowa-EASy, Source Film Number: 1007180.
1900 US Federal Census, Illinois, Bureau County, Hall Township, District 12, Image 79 and Image 80 on Ancestry.com. Elizabeth Rodgers, 18, born Feb 1882 in Illinois, single, listed with her parents.

1910 US Federal Census, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, Roll: T624_390, Page 8B, Enumeration District 21: William Baxter, 42; Elizabeth Baxter, 29; Ellen Baxter, 9; Grace Baxter, 6; William Baxter, 4; Alice Baxter, 3; John Baxter, 6/12.
Iowa State Census Collection, 1836-1925 on Ancestry.com. 1915 Iowa State Census, Appanoose County, Lincoln Township, Post Office Jerome, Roll: IA1915_16: Card 161: Wm Baxter, 47, Miner, born Scotland, in Iowa 14 years, in US 28 years; Card 162: Elizabeth Baxter, 33, born Missouri; Card 163: Ellen Baxter, 14, born Illinois; Card 164: Grace Baxter, 11, born Iowa; Card 165: Wm Baxter Jr, 9, born Iowa; Card 166: Alice Baxter, 8, born Iowa; Card 167: John Baxter, 6, born Iowa; and Card 168: Ruth Baxter, 4, born Iowa.

1920 US Federal Census, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, Roll: T625_477, Page 6B, Enumeration District 24: William Baxter, 51; Elizabeth Baxter, 38; William Baxter, 14; Alice M. Baxter, 12; John R. Baxter, 11; Ruth E. Baxter, 9; Neil R. Baxter, 2.
1930 US Federal Census, Illinois, Fulton County, Canton, District 13, Image 18 on Ancestry.com: William and Elizabeth Rodgers Baxter family.
1930 US Federal Census, Missouri, Jackson County, Kansas City, District 227, Image 209 on Ancestry.com: Carl D. Whitney and Helen (Baxter) Whitney.

Jerome Cemetery: New Section, Block 18, Lot 8, North Half ---- Grace and Lucille Baxter

2011-07-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

Jerome Cemetery - New Section

Block 18, Lot 8, North Half

=============

Grace and Lucille Baxter, daughters of William W. and Elizabeth Russell Rodgers Baxter, are buried in the North Half, Lot 8, Block 18 of the New Section [Row 3] of the Jerome Cemetery.

Grace Baxter was born 3 September 1903 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 21 August 1916 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 22 August 1916 in the Jerome Cemetery. [Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990 on FamilySearch.org: Source Film Number: 1673930]

Lucille Esabell Baxter was born 18 May 1916 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 7 February 1917 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried 7 February 1917 in the Jerome Cemetery. [Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990 on FamilySearch.org: Source Film Number: 1673930]

Gravestone of Lucille & Grace Baxter

in the Jerome Cemetery

Rowena Mae Rash Robinson, 1936-2011

2011-07-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

The Knoxville Journal-Express - 30 June 2011

-------------------------

Knoxville — Funeral services for Rowena Robinson of Knoxville were held on Wednesday, June 29, 2011, at the First United Methodist Church with Pastor Brent Hanna officiating. Burial followed in the Sandyville Cemetery.

Musical selections of “Old Rugged Cross” and “How Great Thou Art” were shared by Jim Kidder. Casket bearers included Josh Wells, Steve Mincks, Dennis Robinson, Todd Rider, Tim Neef and Seth Wells. Honorary casket bearers were; Richard Mincks, Dean Robinson, Chad Christensen, Nick Neef and Josh Gettler.

Rowena Mae Robinson was born on Feb. 11, 1936 in Centerville, Iowa, the daughter of Wayne Rash and Mary (Rotisky) Rash.

She graduated from Seymour High School and went on to attend Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant. While in High School, Rowena was very active in basketball even winning the state championship one year with her team. She was united in marriage to Donald “Robbie” [DeWitt]* Robinson, [son of Cash Robinson and Ava Ruth Glasgow]*, on Oct. 22, 1966, in Omaha, Neb. Rowena worked at the VA Hospital in the Medical Administrative Services unit for 33 years until her retirement in 1991.

Rowena Mae Rash Robinson

She loved being an exhibitor at the fair, entering her crocheting, needlework, flowers and baked goods and winning many ribbons and awards. Rowena and Donald enjoyed traveling and wintered in Texas for many years.

Rowena passed away on Friday, June 24, 2011 at Trinity Center at Luther Park in Des Moines at the age of 75 years [4 months and 13 says]*.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Robbie, and a sister, Genevieve Mincks.

Survivors include her son, Todd (Shanna) Robinson of Des Moines; step-children, Dennis Robinson and Jean (Tim) Neef of Knoxville; 5 step- grandchildren, Dean Robinson of Knoxville, Darci (Josh) Gettler of Urbandale, Chad Christensen of Ankeny, Nick Neef of Ankeny, Alyssa Frantz of Des Moines; 1 step-great-grandson, Tait Gettler and a sister, Deloris Darrah of Seymour.

[For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Iowa Hospice. Online condolences may be left at bertrandfuneralhomes.com.]*

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*Additions in [ ]s from The Seymour Herald, 30 June 2011, and/or “Descendants of DeWitt Clinton Glasgow” on FamilyTreeMaker.com User Home Pages. Photo from Bertrand Funeral Homes website.

Ruth Evelyn Baxter McKinney, 1910-1997

2011-07-06T16:45:00.000-07:00

Peoria Journal Star - 23 December 1997

-------------------------

LEWISTOWN -- Ruth E. McKinney, 87, of 175 Sycamore Drive, formerly of Canton, died at 2:25 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 1997, at Prairie View Care Center.

Born Nov. 9, 1910, in Jerome, Iowa, to William and Elizabeth Rodgers Baxter, she married J. D. McKinney on Dec. 18, 1958, in Oklahoma. He preceded her in death, as did four brothers and seven sisters.

Surviving are one brother, Neil R. Baxter of Lewistown, and one sister, Maxine Matayo of Canton.

She owned and operated several taverns in Oklahoma for many years.

She is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Canton.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton. The Rev. James McCracken will officiate.

Visitation will be 30 minutes before services at the funeral home.

Burial will be in White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.

Memorials may be made to Prairie View Care Center or to her church.

----------------------------

Social Security Death Index on Ancestry.com: Ruth E. McKinney, SSN 331-01-2691 issued in Illinois before 1951, born 9 Nov 1910, died 21 Dec 1997, Last Residence: 61542 Lewistown, Fulton, Illinois, USA.

Elizabeth Russell Rodgers Baxter, 1881-1964

2011-07-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

Unidentificed 1964 Newspaper Obituary

--------------------------

CANTON -- Mrs. Elizabeth R. Baxter, 83, of 313 N. 7th St., Canton, died Friday morning [16 October 1964] in Havana Nursing Home, Havana, after a long illness.

She was born Feb. 13, 1881, in Huntsville [Randolph County], Mo., a daughter of John and Grace Liddell Rodgers and was married to William Baxter in Centerville, [Appanoose County] Iowa, Sept. 6, 1902. He died in 1958.

Elizabeth Russell Rodgers Baxter

Surviving are two sons, Neil of Canton, and Kenneth of Peoria; five daughters, Mrs. Maxine Matayo of Canton, Mrs. Helen Whitney of Kansas City, Mo., Mrs. Ruth O'Neil of McKinney, Okla., Mrs. Margaret Wright of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Mrs. Shirley Davis of Los Angeles; 19 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren; two brothers, John Rodgers of Oglesby and William of California; three sisters, Mrs. Grace Ruckman of Chicago Heights, Mrs. Alice Clark of Utica, and Mrs. Barbara Briddick of Oglesby.

Seven children, three brothers and three sisters preceded her in death.

She was a member of the Believers Church in Jerome, Iowa.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday in Murphy Memorial Home, the Rev. Orville L. Wright officiating. Burial will be in White Chapel Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be at the funeral home after 4 Sunday afternoon.

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Obituary and picture from The Baxter Family Tree on Ancestry.com posted and owned by JeepGirl2010.

William Robert Baxter, 1905-1960

2011-07-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

Unidentified Newspaper Obituary - December 1960

-----------------------------------

Funeral services for William R. Baxter, 55, of 1421 S. Lammers St., who died at $:15 (sic) a.m. Sunday at Proctor Hospital where he had been a patient since Nov. 19, will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Davison Funeral Home.

The Rev. K. Richard Schliepsiek of Christ Lutheran Church will officiate. Burial will be in Lutheran Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 4 p.m. today.

William Robert Baxter's

High School Graduation Picture

Mr. Baxter formerly operated the Hideaway Tavern on Laramie street for eight years before ill health forced him to retire in May of this year.

William and Goldie Baxter in front of the

Hideway Tavern on Laramie Street in Peoria, Illinois

Earlier he had been a machinist at the Keystone Steel & Wire Co. for 10 years. He was a member of Peoria Aerio 265, FOE, and Abingdon Lodge 185, AF&AM, at Abingdon. Born in [Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County] Iowa Aug. 3, 1905, he was a son of William and Elizabeth Rodgers Baxter, and married Goldie B[elle] Lance [born 11 January 1902 in Breeds, Fulton County, Illinois; died 14 December 1967 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois] in Peoria April 20, 1925.

Surviving are his wife; his mother; one daughter, Mrs. Joyce Collins; two sons, Phillip [Clair] Baxter [born 17 February 1932; died 4 November 1994 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois] and William [Charles] Baxter [born 4 July 1939; died 28 June 1969 in Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois], all of Peoria; five sisters, Mrs. Helen Whitney of Kansas City, Mo., Mrs. Margaret Wright of Oklahoma City, Okla., Mrs. Maxine Matayo of Canton and Mrs. Shirley Davis of Los Angeles, Calif.; two brothers, Neil Baxter of Canton and Kenneth G. Baxter of Normal; and six grandchildren. Four sisters and two brothers preceded him in death.

William Robert and Goldie Belle (Lance) Baxter's

Gravestone in Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, Illinois

-----------------------

The above obituary and pictures are from the Baxter Family Tree on Ancestry.com posted and owned by JeepGirl2010.

Ulah Maxine Baxter Matayo, 1920-2011

2011-07-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

Peoria Journal Star - 4 July 2011

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Canton, Illinois - Maxine Matayo, 91, formerly of Canton, died at 9:15 p.m., Friday, July 1, 2011, at Rosewood Care Center in East Peoria.

Born March 20, 1920, in Jerome, Iowa, to William and Elizabeth Rodgers Baxter, she married Stanko Matayo on Oct. 1, 1938, in Fort Madison, Iowa.

Surviving are one daughter, Janice (Ron) Skinner of East Peoria, one son, Stanko Kent (Marsha) Matayo of Bella Vista, Ark., one daughter-in-law, Bonnie (Bill) Watkins of Russellville, Ark., seven grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Stanko, on Oct. 9, 2001; by one son, David, on March 30, 1980; and by five brothers and eight sisters.

She was a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses in Canton.

There will be a graveside service at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 6 at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton. There will be no visitation.

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the Jehovah's Witnesses, 1566 E. Ash St., Canton, IL 61520.

Online condolences may be posted at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

--------------------------------------------------------

The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above obituary to The Jerome Journal by Gary Craver of Centerville, Iowa.

SHS Class of 1946 - 65th Reunion in 2011

2011-07-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

The Seymour High School Class of 1946 held their 65th Reunion at the SHS Alumni Banquet on May 28, 2011. Twenty-three students graduated in 1946 from SHS as shown above in their class picture. Fifteen members of the class are deceased. Of the eight living members of the class, four attended the Reunion and also enjoyed fellowship on Friday evening over dinner at the Continental Hotel in Centerville. The four members attending are pictured below from left to right: Quentin DeVore, Newton, Iowa; Phyllis Hawkins Cain, Papillion, Nebraska; Jean Whitmore Ray, East Moline, Illinois; and Raymond Shubat, Kissimmee, Florida. Phyllis Hawkins Cain, daughter of William Earl Hawkins and Lora Geneva Patrick, was born in Jerome, attended the Jerome School through ninth grade and attended Seymour High School for three years, graduating in 1946.

The other four living members of the Class of 1946 are Dorothy Gilmore Bankston, Bonnie Smith Young, and H. Ray Mabee who all live in California; and Marjorie Van Dyne Snyder who lives in Granger, Iowa.

----------------------------

The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above pictures and information to The Jerome Journal by Phyllis Hawkins Cain of Papillion, NE.

They Must Like It Here -- They've Stayed!

2011-06-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 23 June 2011

Reprinted from The Seymour Herald of 26 July 1951

---------------------------

Many of Seymour's "Old Settlers" have moved away, others have retired from active business life to their homes, but a few have kept up their professional activities through the years.

Included among Seymour's "old-timers" who still are in harness are H. S. Eckels, R. A. Morrow, Harry Bower, Elvin Owen, J. N. Condra and Roy Cunningham.

Cunningham started clerking in the grocery store on the west side of the square 43 years ago, but, in partnership with his wife, became owner of the same store he now operates 25 years ago in August. The Cunninghams have one son, Fred, of Kansas City, Mo.

Condra, who has been in the insurance business in Seymour for the past 31 years always has lived around Seymour. He was a farmer before moving to town to open his insurance agency. And after all those years in business here Mr. Condra says, "I still like "the place."

Elvin Owen, another insurance man, has been in business here for 27 years. He had offices in the upstairs of the Yeager building and Brenaman buildings before moving to his present location in the east side of the Rissler barber shop.

More than half a century -- 51 years -- is the business record of Harry Bower, who operates a barber shop on the east side of the Seymour square. His first shop located just north of the Odd Fellows building. Later he moved to a location about where Liggett's furniture store stands, then to the west side of the square. He has been on the east side for about 40 years.

R. A. Morrow has put in 40 years "more or less" in business in Seymour and he, too, has occupied several locations. His first location was on the east side of the square where the Scott grocery now is located. Then he moved to the west side of the square to occupy a building about where the Perkins gift shop now stands. Later he moved to his present location on the west side. He is in business with three of his sons, Jared, Max and Keith.

H. S. Eckels has been connected with the lumber business in Seymour for 64 years, starting to work for the Lewis lumber company when he was 13 years old in 1887, when the company was located where the Webb seed store now stands. He served 18 months in the Spanish-American war and returned to work for the Parker lumber company in the same location. In 1907 he bought the lumber yard where he has operated for 44 years.

Harl Family Reunion, Sunday, 10 July 2011

2011-06-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 23 June 2011

------------------------

Descendants of John T. and Christina Rigler Harl will meet at the Seymour Community Center Sunday, July 10, 2011, for the 70th annual Harl Reunion. The Center will open at 10:30 a.m. A potluck dinner will be served at 12:15 p.m. followed by a business meeting.

Livingston Baptist Church Open House, 10 July 2011

2011-06-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 23 June 2011

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The Franklin Baptist Church at the former Village of Livingston has been undergoing major restoration and renovation. Construction is nearing completing and an open house has been planned for July 10, 2011, from 2-4 p.m. after Church in the Park and lunch during Seymour's Old Settler's celebration.

The church is located east of Seymour on J46 about three miles to 135th Avenue then south about three miles.

Franklin Baptist Church

at former Village of Livingston

The church building was built in 1880 and dedicated in 1881. The Franklin Baptist Church served as a spiritual and moral guide to the neighborhood of Livingston for many years. Services ceased to be held there in the early 1970s.

The church has been recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to the life of Livingston Parker and his involvement and service to this church, community and country. He was ordained as a Baptist minister in this building in a two-day ordination service after he served in the Civil War.

The empty building began to decay until it was rescued from its demise at the turn of this century. It has now been restored and is ready to be dedicated.

The renovation features an 8 foot wooden cross on the interior of the church at the east end. The baptistery has been preserved and will be open for inspection.

Pews, which were a gift from the Numa Christian Church when it closed, are being installed in the sanctuary. A replica of the original bell tower has been constructed and a large melodious bell has been installed in the bell tower. Although the church was not originally wired for electricity, the church building now has electric lights (with period fixtures), ceiling fans and heating panels along the sides of the sanctuary. The vaulted ceiling and walls had to be renovated but the original wainscoting has been preserved.

It is planned that the church will be used for church services, homecomings, weddings, funerals and other special events.

Historic Livingston Foundation welcomes everyone to come see this historic building.

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See earlier articles posted in The Jerome Journal: Franklin Baptist Church in Livingston and Town of Livingston in Franklin Township.

Lottie Fern Brown, 1919-2011

2011-06-27T13:55:00.000-07:00

Schmidt Family Funeral Home

Moulton and Centerville, Iowa
27 June 2011

-------------------------

Lottie Fern Brown, 91 of Centerville, Iowa died on Thursday, June 23, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center Long Term Care in Centerville. She was born the daughter of William R. and Orpha (Howe) Ricketts on October 25, 1919 in Spickard, Missouri. She received her education in the Seymour High School at Seymour,

Iowa and graduating in 1939.

On February 20, 1940 Lottie was united in marriage to Willis Brown near Seymour, Iowa. She enjoyed helping her husband on the farm and being a home maker.

She is preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Willis Brown; sisters, Nola Olson and LaVelle Elswick.

Lottie is survived by: her sons, Bill and his wife, Pat Brown of Plano, Iowa and Larry and his wife, Sue Brown of Jerome, Iowa; sister, Francis McCarthy of Centerville, Iowa; brother, Allen Ricketts of Moline, Illinois; 8 grandchildren; 20 great grand children

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 27, 2011 at 10 am at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home in Centerville, Iowa with Rev. Kay Singley officiating. Burial will follow at the South Lawn cemetery in Seymour, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 26, 2011 from 2 pm until 8 pm with family present from 6 pm until 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorials can be made to the Aviary at Long Term Care - Mercy Hospital and left at or mailed to the funeral home. The Schmidt Family Funeral Home in Centerville, Iowa is caring for the Brown family at this time. Condolences may be made at schmidtfamilyfuneralhome.com

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James Sidles, 1932-2011

2011-06-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

The Seymour Herald - 2 June 2011
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James Sidles, 78, of Richfield, Ohio passed away peacefully at his home on May 12, 2011. Proceeded in death by his parents, Selma and Peter, of Jerome, Iowa, wife JoAnn (nee McCord) Sidles of Centerville, Iowa, brother Howard, and brother Harry; he is survived by his daughter, Sherry Downey, of Richland, OH, son, James Paul Sidles, of Litchfield, IL, and sister, Virginia Bay, of Venice, FL.

Jim, as he was better known to family and friends, grew up on the Peter Sidles farm in Jerome, Iowa, attended the Jerome elementary school through the eighth grade, and graduated from Seymour High School in 1950. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for three years as an officer on battleships, attaining the rank of Lieutenant JG, after having graduated from Iowa State University with an engineering degree. He then relocated to the Akron, Ohio area, and worked as a research engineer briefly for Firestone, and then for B. F. Goodrich, where he spent the rest of his career working in the field of rubber, plastics, and polymer research, with an emphasis on the design and manufacture of commercial jet airliner brakes, passenger tires, race car tires, and many other projects.

He had a number of patents filed for his inventions. He retired from B. F. Goodrich after 30 years of service, and enjoyed his retirement doing what he loved to do best. He was an avid reader of non-fiction, and was always challenging himself to learn something new. He loved spending timed with his two grandchildren and watching them grow up. They were the greatest joy of his life; along with his passion for music. He sang in the choir at Richfield United Church of Christ for 45 years, rarely missing a Sunday. He was able to participate in his choir's annual Easter Cantata shortly before his death. He was a kind, loving, generous father, grandfather, brother, friend, co-worker, and member of his church choir, who were like family to him. He will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.

Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, June 9th at 7 PM at eh United Church of Christ in Richfield.

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Akron Beacon Journal - 19 May 2011

Transcribed from Ohio.com on 7 June 2011

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James Sidles, 78, of Richfield, passed away at his home Wednesday, May 12, 2011.
Preceded in death by his parents, Selma and Peter; wife, JoAnn; brothers, Howard and Harry; he is survived by his daughter, Sherry Downey; son, James Paul Sidles; beloved grandchildren, Michael and Justin Downey; twin brother, Peter Sidles; and sister, Virginia Bay.

James Sidles, 1932-2011

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for three years as an officer on battleships, attaining the rank of Lieutenant JG, after having graduated from Iowa State University with an engineering degree. He worked as a research engineer briefly for Firestone, and then for B. F. Goodrich, where he spent the rest of his career working in the field of rubber, plastics, and polymer research, with an emphasis on the design and manufacture of commercial jet airliner brakes, passenger tires, race car tires, and many other projects.

He had a number of patents filed for his inventions. He retired from B. F. Goodrich after 30 years of service, and enjoyed his retirement doing what he loved to do best. He was an avid reader of non-fiction, and was always challenging himself to learn something new. He loved spending time with his two grandchildren and watching them grow up. They were the greatest joy of his life, along with his passion for music. He sang in the choir at Richfield United Church of Christ for 45 years, rarely missing a Sunday. He was able to participate in his choir's annual Easter Cantata shortly before his death. He was a kind, loving, generous father, grandfather, brother, friend, co-worker, and member of his church choir, who were like family to him. He will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.
Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, June 9th at 7 p.m. at the United Church of Christ in Richfield, 4340 Streetsboro Rd., Richfield, OH 44286. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)

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Editor's Note: James Sidles was born 29 June 1932 in Jerome, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, son of Peter and Selma (Johnson) Sidles. He married on 6 March 1955 in the First Methodist Church in Centerville, Iowa, JoAnn McCord, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul McCord of Centerville, Iowa. He passed away on 12 March 2011 at his home in Richfield, Ohio.

James Sidles

from a picture of Friends of the Richfield Branch Library on the cover of

The Richfield Times Magazine, Volume 31, No. 3 (March 2010)

James Sidles secured a long list of patents during his professional career. His first United States patent registered in 1961 related to an Apparatus for Measuring Vibrations of a Vehicle [US 2,995,927]. While nearly all of his patents were related to tires, his final patent in 2002 was for a Rotating Seed Drill [US 6,357,369 B1] in the field of agriculture.

AP-PA-NOOSE

2011-04-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

The Red Men in Iowa by A. R. Fulton

[Des Moines, Iowa: Mills & Company, Publishers, 1882]

--------------------------------------------------------------------

The name of this chief signifies "a chief when a child," indicating that he inherited his office. He presided over a band of the Sacs. He was a man of a sedate and quiet disposition, and was much beloved by his people. We know but little of his early life. During the Black Hawk War he favored the peace policy of Keokuk, having always entertained a friendly feeling toward the whites. After the removal of the Sacs and Foxes from Iowa River to the Des Moines he established his village near the site of the present city of Ottumwa, where his people cultivated a portion of the ground now within the limits of that city. The grounds occupied by the round-house and other buildings of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad were once a part of the corn-fields of Appanoose and his people.
Appanoose was one of the delegation who, in 1837, with Keokuk and other head men, accompanied General Street to Washington, at which time he visited with them the city of Boston. He was present with them in the meeting at Faneuil Hall, and also in the State-house, where Governor Everett, and other State officials of Massachusetts, tendered them a reception. It was on that occasion that he brought himself prominently into notice by making the most animated speech, both in manner and matter, that was delivered by the chiefs. Keokuk having, in reply to Governor Everett first spoken, Appanoose arose, and said:

"Brothers: You have heard just now what my chief has to say. All our chiefs and warriors are very much gratified by our visit to this town. Last Saturday they were invited to a great house (Faneuil Hall), and now they are in the great council-house. They are very much pleased with so much attention. This we cannot reward you for now, but shall not forget it, and hope the Great Spirit will reward you for it. This is the place which our forefathers once inhabited. I have often heard my father and grandfather say they lived near the sea-coast where the white men first came. I am glad to hear all this from you. I suppose it is put in a book, where you learn all these things. As far as I can understand the language of the white people, it appears to me that the Americans have attained a very high rank among white people. It is the same with us, though I say it myself. Where we live beyond the Mississippi, I am respected by all people, and they consider me the tallest among them. I am happy that two great men meet and shake hands with each other."

Appanoose, at the conclusion of his speech, suited the action to the word by extending his hand to Governor Everett, while the audience shouted its applause at the self- complacency of the orator. He immediately became one of the heroes of that memorable occasion, and returned to his Western home with a number of valuable presents.

According to statements of pioneers, Appanoose had four wives. Being of a quiet and peaceful disposition, he was not much known beyond his own village, whose interests, it is said, he watched over with great prudence and care. The date of his death we have not been able to ascertain, but it must have occurred after the removal of his people to that part of the Des Moines valley above Red Rock, for he is incidentally mentioned as being among them after that time. In an old memorandum of pioneer days in Iowa we have seen mention of the death of a Sac chief whose name was given as Op-pe-noose, as occurring at the mouth of Clear Creek, believed to be the small stream of that name in Keokuk county. Like his cotemporary (though senior in years), Wapello, he had probably returned on a visit to his former haunts, when the messenger came that was to summon him to his final hunting-grounds in the land of the Great Spirit.

Appanoose County Historical Society -------------------- to Digitize All Centerville Newspapers

2011-04-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

Ad-Express and Daily Iowegian - 8 April 2011

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CENTERVILLE — The Appanoose County Historical Society has undertaken the task of having all of the Centerville newspapers digitized. This will include pre-Iowegian newspapers dating back as far 1857 and going all the way up to the present. This will include the Daily Citizen, the Centerville Journal, The Southern Iowa American (the Ku Klux Klan newspaper), the Semi-Weekly Iowegian and the Daily Ioweigan up through 2010.

You may have some questions, like, “What is digitization?” or “How does this differ from microfilm?” Digitization is a process that uses already microfilmed newspapers, scans them into a database, and makes them searchable with key search words, phrases, or dates. Where microfilm only allows you to scour the pages of the newspapers, digitization will allow intuitive searches for the information you are looking for and return it to you on screen. Digitization will allow a person to do research via a Web site on the Internet, never having to leave their home or office, and accomplish this type of search for information in a much more efficient way. The Web site would be available for use at the Appanoose County Historical & Coal Mining Museum, the Drake Library, or could be accessed from any home computer.

People who will benefit include genealogical researchers, historians and students looking for specific historical information about Appanoose County, family members looking for articles on their families, businesses, basically everyone who has ever been curious about something in Centerville. This searchable newspaper archive will be able to show you any articles, advertisements, photos, obituaries — virtually anything that was in the newspaper! Even the staff at the Daily Iowegian will have a great way to easily look up previously published material.

To see what the digitization will be like, you can look at the old copies of the Moravia Union and Moulton Tribune at the archive Web site at www.newspaperarchive.com. These papers have already been digitized and are useful tools to local genealogists.

The cost of the digitization of all of the newspapers is around $25,000, which may sound like a large expenditure, but when you take into consideration the volume of material that has to be done, it’s less than $200 per year. The Advantage Companies in Cedar Rapids has recently quoted the project to cost $24,300, and that is through the 2010 newspapers. Once completed, a much more affordable annual cost will be incurred to keep the archive current.

The potential for the digitization was originally suggested by Appanoose County Genealogy Society President Gary Craver. He has spent thousands of hours at the library, pouring over microfilm doing genealogical research. The possibility of doing the research from his home was really appealing, so he contacted Heritage Microfilm to get a quote. It was very expensive, and he didn’t know how the money could ever be raised to accomplish it.

But that’s where Connie Stater came in. Board member of the Appanoose County Historical Society, Connie had been using the hard-bound volumes of the old Iowegians at the museum to do research on the beginnings of the Majestic Theater now being restored by Morgan Cline. Those old newspapers are brittle and crumble easily, making them very difficult to use. She, Gary, and some other members of the Historical Society sprang into action, looking for grants and other ways to raise the needed funds for digitization.

To kick off the project, Kris Koestner of J&K Market made a $500 donation for the project. Connie has sent out letters to several local people and businesses that she thought would have a keen interest in the digitized newspapers. If you would like to help with this project, your donations will be gratefully accepted. If you want to help, just call Connie Stater at (641) 856-5426 or come to the museum any weekday between 1-5 p.m.

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Editor's Note: This project will provide a great resource for local and family historians of Appanoose County, Iowa, that will be accessible from their home computers. Contributions should be payable to the Appanoose County Historical Society and mailed to them at 100 West Maple Street, Centerville, IA 52544 with a note that your charitable contribution is for the Historical Newspaper Project.

Cleo Cecil Baughman Peck Barker, 1904-2002

2011-02-20T20:57:00.000-08:00

Biographical Records of Residents of Johns Township

and Surrounding Area - 2nd Edition

(Appanoose and Wayne Counties, Iowa)

Compiled by Willis and Richard Gorden

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Cleo Cecil (Baughman) Barker, 97, of Centerville, died Sunday, March 3, 2002, at the Golden Age Care Center. She was born November 5, 1904, on a farm west of Promise City, the youngest child of William and Lydia (Baylor) Baughman. She graduated from Promise City High School in 1920 and Corydon High School in 1922. She attended Simpson College in Indianola and graduated from a normal course. She taught school for 22 years in Wayne, Appanoose and Henry counties.

She married Jesse Oren Peck of Crawfordsville, March 1, 1946. They moved to a farm south of Centerville in March 1948. He preceded her in death April 9, 1964. She moved into Centerville and was a substitute teacher in Centerville Schools and became children's librarian at Drake Public Library for over 5 years. She married Charles Barker, August 9, 1982. He preceded her in death April 29, 2001. Surviving are a stepson, Ronald Barker and his wife, Marilyn; 3 step-grandchildren; a niece, Roberta Hupp Taylor; 2 nephews, Robert and Max Hupp; and other relatives. Also preceding her in death were her parents; 6 sisters, Malesse, Ola, Etta, Martha, Laura and Eliza; 3 brothers, Leonard, Leon and James; 3 nieces, Dorothy Richardson Killion, Betty Richardson Patterson and Eloise Baughman Langloss; and a nephew, William Richardson. She was a member of Centerville First United Methodist Church, the Wayne County Historical Society, Retired Teachers Organization and the18-80 Club of Centerville. Funeral was held at the Randolph Funeral Home in Seymour with Rev. Jim Gubser officiating. Burial was in the Promise City Cemetery. Memorials were given to the Promise City Cemetery or to a memorial of the donor's choice.

Cleo Baughman with her students in Jerome School

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Charles Robert Barker, 1905-2001

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Charles Robert “Bob” Barker, 95, of Centerville died Sunday, April 29, 2001, at the Golden Age Care Center. He was born August 31, 1905, in Promise City, the son of Harvey and Erma (Noble) Barker. He married Ruth Eaton in June 1924. She preceded him in death in March 1978. In August 1981 he married Cleo [Baughman] Peck. She survives. Also surviving are a son, Ronald Barker and his wife, Marilyn, of Moravia; 3 grandchildren; and 2 great granddaughters. Also preceding him in death were his parents; 3 sisters, Iva Smith, Dee Liddle and Thelma Keller; and 2 brothers, Everett and Dempse Barker. He farmed north of Seymour until he retired in 1964 and moved to northwest Arkansas. He worked for a contractor there for 16 years, moving back to Iowa in 1981. Graveside memorial services were held at the Promise City Cemetery with Pastor Jim Gubser officiating. Memorials were given to the Jones Church or Promise City Cemetery.

William Henry Bradley, 1826-1908

2011-02-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

The History of Appanoose County, Iowa

[Chicago, IL: Western Historical Co., 1878], Page 540 -----------------------------------

BRADLEY, W. H., farmer, stock dealer and fruit grower, Sec. 6 [Bellair Township]; P. O. Centerville; born in Clarke Co., Ind., in 1826; at the age of 8 years, removed with his father to Morgan Co., Ind.; remained at home until 22 years of age. In 1848, married Martha [Ann] Elliott, who was born in Pulaski Co, Ky., in 1826; her parents, Fountain B. and Martha Elliott, returned to Clarke Co., where they died, only a week intervening between their deaths. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley removed to Owen Co., Ind., in 1856; came to this county, purchased 180 acres of land two miles north of Centerville and engaged in farming; in 1859, removed to their present residence and own 705 acres of land, valued at $25 per acre; they have seven children—Sarah E., J. R., Melvina J., Alvira, Patrick H., Chas. E., and Wm. Albert. Mr. and Mrs. B. and the four elder children are members of the M. E. Church; the parents have belonged to that Church for thirty years. Mr. B. is a member of the A. F. & A. M., No. 313, of Numa.

Unidentified Seymour, Iowa, Newspaper Obituary, 1908

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William H. [Henry] Bradley was born Jan. 30, 1826, and died in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. B. M. Boydston, Oct. 28, 1908. He has made his home with his daughter in Mt. Pleasant for the past six years. Until that time since coming to Iowa from Indiana—the state of his birth—in 1856, me made his home in Appanoose County. Until the death of his wife [Martha] in 1882, he resided three miles east of Jerome but since then he has made his home with his children. He was the father of nine children, two having died in infancy and P. H. Bradley died about ten years ago. The remaining children were all present at the funeral and are as follows: J. R. and W. A. Bradley of Centerville, Mrs. B. M. [Melvina] Boydston and Mrs. James [Sarah] Johns of Mt. Pleasant and Mrs. J. A. [Elvira] Sidles of this place. He has been in feeble health for some time but his last sickness lasted only a few days. Charles, Mrs. Johns and Mrs. Boydston were with him at the time of his death and accompanied the remains to Jerome where the funeral was held at the M. E. church conducted by Rev. Perdew, pastor of the M. E. church of Centerville, assisted by Rev. Bishop of this place. The Masonic Lodge of Centerville had charge of the services at the cemetery, where the body was laid to rest by the side of his wife.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the permission granted by Linda Jacobs Green to transcribe the above material from her book, History of the Bradley, Van Ness, Elliott, Elgin, Sidles, Condra Families of Appanoose County, Iowa, 3rd Revision, 3rd Printing [Columbia, MO: Linda Jacobs Green, January 2011], page 152.

John Rowan Bradley, 1850-1919

2011-02-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

Past and Present of Appanoose County, Iowa

Volume II, Pages 402-404

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

-----------------------------------------------

Through well-directed activity and enterprise John R. Bradley has gained a high place in the business circles of Centerville, where since 1892 he has been engaged in general contracting and building. He was born in Morgan County, Indiana, August 9, 1850, and is a son of William H[enry] and Martha [Ann] (Elliott) Bradley, the former born in Clark County, Indiana, January 30, 1826, and the latter in Kentucky, February 20, of the same year. Mr. Bradley's paternal grandfather was Benjamin [Franklin] Bradley, a native of the South [Maryland]. His wife [Elizabeth Keynon] was born in Ireland [or Pennsylvania]. The mother of our subject removed from Indiana to Kentucky when she was still a child and there her marriage occurred. Immediately afterward Mr. and Mrs. William H. Bradley came to Iowa, locating in Appanoose County, where they purchased eighty acres of land in Vermillion Township, adding to it from time to time until the farm comprised six hundred and eighty acres. Upon this the father engaged in general farming but later gave much attention to buying and shipping stock, carrying on an extensive business along this line for a number of years. His wife passed away in 1881 and six years later the father sold the farm and went to Numa, where he engaged in the mercantile business. He remained there for eight years and then sold his business interests and moved to Centerville, where he made his home with the subject of this review. Later he moved to Mount Pleasant and there his death occurred at the home of his daughter, Melvina Boydston. For many years he was active in the Masonic order, holding membership in Centerville Lodge, No. 42, F. & A. M.

John R. Bradley acquired his education in the district schools of Appanoose County and in the Centerville High School. After he laid aside his school books he helped his father with the work of the farm until he was married, after which he moved upon a portion of the homestead, which he developed and improved for some time. In 1884 he learned the carpentering trade and worked at it for wages for eight years, after which he established himself independently as a contractor and builder, in which work he is still active. He has erected some of the finest and most attractive business houses and residences in Centerville and the surrounding district and has handled much valuable property, doing a very extensive and profitable business.

Mr. Bradley has been thrice married. His first wife was in her maidenhood Miss Mary [Ann] Crist, a daughter of John [G.] and Mary Ann [Coffman] Crist, the former a farmer in Appanoose County. The first Mrs. Bradley died one year later [was buried in the Jerome Cemetery] and in 1884 the subject of this review wedded Mrs. Martha C. Brown, a daughter of Addison and Rhoda (Bryant) Veach, the former born in West Virginia and the latter in Galesburg , Illinois. Both came to Appanoose County in the early '50s and there the father learned the blacksmith's trade, later opening a shop in Centerville. Afterward he removed to Numa and engaged in the same business until his death, which occurred in 1895. His widow returned to Centerville and died in that city at the home of the subject of this review. Mrs. Martha Bradley passed away on the 11th of February, 1902, and on the 29th of December, of the following year, Mr. Bradley was again married. His third union was with Miss Ann Spooner, a daughter of James B. and Catherine (Bryant) Spooner, the former a native of Indiana, born in 1828, and the latter of Galesburg, Illinois, where her birth occurred in 1833. The father came to Iowa in 1846 and entered eighty acres of government land in Center Township, Appanoose County. A few years later the mother came and in this section their marriage occurred, after which they settled upon the farm, where they passed the remainder of their lives, the mother dying in 1898 and the father on the 29th of April, 1905. Mr. Bradley had one daughter by his second marriage, Martha, who was born May 10, 1890, and who died October 9, 1911. During her life she was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star at Centerville. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are devout members of the Methodist church.

Mr. Bradley gives his allegiance to the Republican Party and has held various responsible township offices, for he never seeks to avoid the duties of citizenship. Fraternally, he is connected with Centerville Lodge, No. 42, F. & A. M. Throughout his business career he has always faithfully discharged any obligation devolving upon him and has thus established a reputation for integrity and reliability, his name being an honored one wherever it is known.

-------------------------------------------

Note: The notations in [ ]s were made by the editor of The Jerome Journal.

Sarah Jane Bradley, 1864-1938

2011-02-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

SARAH J. BRADLEY TAKEN WHILE ON VISIT TO SISTER

Sarah J. Bradley, of Los Angeles, Calif., passed away in the St. Joseph hospital in Centerville, Iowa, Thursday, September 8.

Miss Bradley was the daughter of John and Sarah [Elliott] Bradley, Appanoose County pioneers, and had grown to young womanhood in that county and had entered the teaching profession. She taught first in rural schools, and later in Cincinnati, Jerome, Seymour and cities of this community. She went to Los Angeles twenty years ago where she became a teacher in the grade schools, where she taught until her retirement two years ago.

She came to Centerville August 1, for a visit with her sister, Mrs. B. C. [Mary Ann] Van Ness. She had been there only a week when she was stricken with intestinal flu and was taken to the hospital where she grew constantly weaker and death came in spite of all that medical aid could do.

Miss Bradley was well known over Wayne and Appanoose counties and her death brings sorrow to a host of friends here.

---------------------------------------

Unidentified Newspaper Article

The body of Miss Sarah Bradley, who died in St. Joseph's hospital, was brought to Seymour for burial Saturday afternoon. She was buried on the family lot. Miss Bradley taught school in Seymour for many years. She was a charter member of Seymour Chapter 124 O. E. S. Several of her pupils and friends were at the service.

-----------------------------------------

Los Angeles Woman Succumbed at St. Joseph Hospital

Last Night—Had Been Here Month

Sarah J. Bradley, 74, of Los Angeles, California, who was here visiting with her sister, Mrs. B. C. [Mary Ann] Van Ness, of 805 North Eleventh Street, died in St. Joseph's hospital at 9 P. M. yesterday.

Miss Bradley, who was the daughter of John and Sarah [Elliott] Bradley, Appanoose County pioneers, had grown to young womanhood in this county and had entered the teaching profession. She taught first rural schools, and later in Cincinnati, Jerome, Seymour and cities of this community. Twenty years ago she went to the west coast and became a teacher in the grade schools of Los Angeles, where she taught until her retirement two years ago.

A sufferer from asthma, Miss Bradley had written her sister here saying that she planned to visit in Iowa just as soon as she recovered from an attack she was having. She came here August 1 and was weak from her recent illness. She was stricken with intestinal flu after her first week here and taken to the hospital 10 days ago, grew constantly weaker until her death in spite of every care.

Miss Bradley and Mrs. Van Ness were the last of a family of eleven, Mrs. Van Ness now being the sole survivor. Miss Bradley was well known over the county and her death brings sorrow to a host of friends here as well as in California.

Funeral services will from the Miller funeral home at 2:30 Saturday afternoon and burial will be in Seymour.

--------------------------

Charles Elliott Bradley, 1864-1945

2011-02-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

Centerville Iowegian, October 1945

---------------------------

Charles Elliott Bradley, 81, retired resident of Champaign, Illinois, since 1821, passed away at 4:30 a. m., Monday [15 October 1945] at Burnham City hospital after a six weeks' confinement due to a fractured hip.

Born on November 6, 1864 near Centerville, Ia., the third son of William and Martha Ann [Elliott] Bradley, he was the last survivor of a family of seven children.

In early manhood, Mr. Bradley became associated with the Williams Hardware and Implement Company of Centerville, Iowa, later accompanying the firm to Chicago where it became known as the Williams Organ and Piano Company. After 20 years of service as the company's representative, he became branch manager for the Davenport Wagon Company, traveling throughout the United States. He later retired to his farm south of Mattoon [Illinois] where he lived for seven years, moving to Champaign in 1921 to take up permanent residence at 511 South Prairie Street.

Mr. Bradley was united in marriage to Stella Bradley, only daughter of Patrick Bradley of Mattoon on June 21, 1898. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Centerville, Iowa. Surviving are his widow; three daughters, Mrs. H. F. [Gladys] Priebe of Cleveland Heights, Ohio; Mrs. Ray [Charlotte] Fisher, Ft. Worth, Texas, and Beth Bradley at home, who is on the U. I. Music faculty; and four grandsons, Bradley and Paul Priebe and Robert and Richard Fisher.

Funeral services were conducted from the Mittendorf Chapel, at 2:30 p. m. Wednesday. Interment was in the Mt. Hope Cemetery.

A number of relatives live in this county: Mrs. J. E. [Ettie Melvina Sidles] Condra of Numa, Susie Sidles of Seymour route and Mrs. Guy [Jennie Maurine Sidles] Streepy of Udell are nieces. William John[s] of Centerville, a nephew, and several other distant relatives.

--------------------------------------

Big Jim Mine, Named for Shoe Size

2011-02-16T18:57:00.000-08:00

The Seymour Herald - 23 May 1957

-------------------------------

By Richard Gilbert and Tom Morrow

The “Big Jim” coal mine had its beginning about 1900 when A. G. Widmer sank a 200 foot shaft on land presently owned by John Argenta Sr. located on the northeast edge of Seymour.

The mine was called the “Big Jim” because Jim Morrison, who owned the property at that time, wore a size 13 shoe. The mine was originally called “Big Jim No. 13,” but this was soon shortened to “Big Jim.” The “Big Jim” was one of the largest coal mines in southern Iowa.

Widmer owned the “Big Jim” and the “Sunshine (Seymour Coal Company) mine.” He later owned the “Streepy mine” located near Numa. Widmer incidentally, was the first person in Seymour to own an automobile, a model F Buick. The car was such a novelty that on several July Fourth celebrations Widmer would give rides around the square for 10 cents a ride. He then donated the proceeds to a worthy cause. Widmer was the son-in-law of the late Dr. Ernest.

The business office for both the “Big Jim” and the “Sunshine” mines was located in the building now occupied by Grismore's jewelry store.

The “Big Jim” consisted of a 200-foot vertical shaft from which four main horizontal shafts branched out over a large area. One main shaft stretched a half-mile east below the Milwaukee railroad track; another led off toward the H. N. Mahaffrey farm; a third went in the direction of the Harve Lord farm; while the fourth shaft tunneled under the town of Seymour. From the four main shafts there were many smaller shafts that branched out to cover a wide area.

The mine was operated, even by today's standards, in a very efficient manner. The four main shafts were lighted by electricity, and an electric-powered car which ran on steel rails transported coal along the four main shafts. Mine ponies hauled the coal from smaller shafts to one of the main shafts and from there it was transported on the electric railroad to the vertical shaft. There were seven mechanical coal cutting machines used in the mining operation.

The ponies that were used in the mine were kept in stalls built at the base of the vertical main shaft. The ponies never saw the light of daylight from early September until mid-spring, but in the summer they were taken to the surface every evening. The ponies could not be exposed to cold weather since the temperature change from the mine would cause pneumonia.

The “dump,” consisting of slag and dirt brought up from beneath the ground, made the “Big Jim” mine a landmark for many years. This “dump” covered an area of six acres and was easily visible for many miles.

The “Big Jim” mine provided employment for from 200 to 250 men and had an output of about 600 tons of coal a day. Nearly all the coal mined was shipped on the railroad, one of the coal mine's best customers, but some was sold to the townspeople. About six or seven freight cars were loaded every day. The wages the workers earned depended upon the amount of coal they could mine. The average wage was about three to four dollars a day. Coal sold for about a dollar a ton.

With so many men working at the mine, a village soon grew up around the mine. The “town” consisted of 18 to 20 small houses, two boarding houses, and a saloon. There also was a grocery store located on Youngs Avenue, “The Italian Store,” operated by Jack and Pete Cambruzzi.

Many persons are familiar with some of the men who worked at the “Big Jim” early in the 1900's. George Elmore was the head engineer, blacksmith and general foreman for the mine; John Reay was check weighman for many years. Another person who worked at the “Big Jim” was a person who was known by nearly everyone as “Big Dominick” Maddalozzo. Several of the men who were employed at the “Big Jim” are still living today in or near Seymour. Among these are John Argenta Sr., Fred Sebben, Beno Sebben, John Sebben, Simon Mores, Frank Saccaro, Tony Sebben, Johnny DeGard, Tony DeRocco and John Reay.

The main vertical shaft, the opening where all men, coal, slag, ponies, and machinery were brought up out of the mine, contained two separate steel elevators called “cages.” These two “cages” made up a “catch” which was powered by a steam engine. The “catch” stopped at two levels above ground—one at surface level and the other at the top of a tipple where the coal was unloaded into railroad cars.

Below, on the floor, there was a long pull-rope which was fastened to a steel triangle at the surface. If the men in the mine wished to send a load of coal or other materials to the mine tipple they pulled the cord twice, which was ta signal to the “catch” operator to take the elevator to the top. When the men were going to ride the “catch” they signaled with three rings to tell the operator to bring the “catch” up slowly and stop it at the ground level.

One day, George Jones Jr., who worked in the mine with his father, boarded the cage for a ride to the ground level. However, for some reason or other, he failed to signal to the “catch” operator that the elevator was to be stopped at the first level.

The operator presumed that he was to take the “catch” all the way to the tipple and so started the elevator up the shaft at the speed used to haul the coal. Young Jones, unaware that the “catch” would not stop for him, started to step out at the ground level but was quickly dashed against a heavy wooden beam supporting the tipple as the “catch” whizzed upward. The blow knocked Jones off balance and he fell 200 feet to the floor of the mine and was killed.

Although this was only one of several accidents that occurred at the “Big Jim” it is remembered because of the irony connected with it. Several weeks before his death George has visited a fortune teller who had come to Seymour with a carnival. She predicted that George Jones Jr. would not live to be 21. Naturally, George told his fellow workers at the the mine, much to everyone's amusement, of the Gypsy's prediction but after his death there was a great deal of speculation about the fortune teller's statement.

In the spring of 1918, operations at the “Big Jim” mine came to an abrupt halt. During the night there was a cave-in at the bottom of the main vertical shaft, caused by the pressures that had been placed on the braces over the years.

Widmer estimated that it would cost several thousand dollars to clear the mine before operation could be resumed and felt that because the merchants of the town received the business of the miners on his payroll, they should contribute towards the cost of clearing the shaft. They refused, however, and Widmer got a few men to enter the mine through the air shaft and salvage the equipment. He then sold the mine and took the equipment to Missouri where he opened a new mine.

Several years later parts of the huge “dump” were hauled away for use as ballast and in road construction.

(Note: Bill Augustine, John Argenta Sr., and Lawrence Ruby assisted us in gaining information for this article.)

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This article from The Seymour Herald is included in the coal mining exhibit at the Prairie Trails Museum of Wayne County in Corydon, Iowa. The editor sincerely appreciates that Brenda DeVore of the Prairie Trails Museum sent a copy of it to post in The Jerome Journal at my request.

Ida R. (Morrison) McGavran, 1903-1996

2011-02-14T14:36:00.000-08:00

Daily Iowegian – April 1996

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Ida R. McGavran, daughter of B. A. and Lutitia (Stoner) Morrison, was born January 28, 1903 in Appanoose County, Iowa. She passed away April 7, 1996 at the Seymour Care Center at the age of 93 years, 2 months, 9 days.

She lived in the Jerome area all of her life, where she farmed and was a life-time member of the Jerome Methodist Church.

She married George Mincks in 1922 and they later divorced. She married Charles McGavran in 1947 and he preceded her in death. Also preceding here were her parents and a sister, Mary C. Jones.

She is survived by two sons, Richard Mincks and wife, Genevieve of Seymour and William Mincks and wife, Donna of Cedar Falls; a newphew, Frank D. Jones of Naples, Florida; four grandchildren, Mary Catherine Couchman of Bella Vista, Arkansas; Steven Mincks of Chillicothe, Missouri; Jane Turner of Clive, Iowa, and Susan Pitcher of Las Vegas, Nevada; plus four great-grandchildren, Duane Couchman of Milo; Troy Couchman of Bella Vista, Ark.; and Andrew and Laura Turner of Clive, Iowa.

Ida was active in her family life, the church and White Shrine of Jerusalem, in which she served as Worthy High Priestess.

Funeral services were held Thursday, April 11, 1996 at 1:30 p.m. from the Randolph Funeral Home, Seymour with Rev. Leroy Perkins officiating. The hymns “In The Garden” and “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” were sung by Milton Albertson, accompanied by Mary Parker, pianist.

Pallbearers were Troy Couchman, Gary Couchman, Duane Couchman, Brian Turner, Steven Mincks and Paul McElvain. Honorary bearers were Kenneth Owen and John Ponsetto. Interment was in the Jerome Cemetery.

A memorial was established to the Jerome Methodist Church.

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Ida R. McGavran's Gravestone in Jerome Cemetery

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The editor sincerely appreciates that the above obituary was found and sent to The Jerome Journal by Brenda DeVore of the Prairie Trails Museum of Wayne County, Corydon, Iowa.

Leishman Connor Dove, 1910-1996

2011-02-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

Daily Iowegian - 6 December 1996

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Leishman Connor Dove, 86, of Centerville, died Tuesday, Dec. 3, 1996, at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital. He was born June 25, 1910, in Plano, the son of Hedley and Ida (Connor) Dove.

He married Lera Cowles May 14, 1938, in Lancaster, Mo. She survives.

Also surviving are a son, Larry Dove and his wife, Sonya, of Centerville; a daughter, Sandra Banks and her husband, Gary, of Seymour; a brother, Junior Dove of Centerville; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Sammy Dove.

He received his education in Centerville schools. He worked as an iron construction worker for many years and was a member of International Local 67 Ironworkers Union. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, Jackson Lodge 42, in Centerville.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Schmidt-Duley Funeral Home in Centerville with the Rev. Susen LeBlanc officiating. Burial will be in the Jerome Cemetery in Jerome. Visitation will be from 1 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. A Masonic service will begin at 7 p.m.

Memorials may be given to the Shriners Crippled Children's Hospital and contributions may be left at the funeral home.

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Dove Gravestone in Jerome Cemetery

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The editor sincerely appreciates that the above obituary was found and sent to The Jerome Journal by Brenda DeVore of the Prairie Trails Museum of Wayne County, Corydon, Iowa.