November 4, 1920 - reprinted December 18, 1985Colfax county commissioners were August Kloppel, John Moural and Joseph Krejci. County clerk was Jess L. Woods. The commissioners allowed the following claims for dragging roads for one month:
J. F. Rosenberry $37.50, Aug. Grotelueschen $69.00, David Kluck $28.00, George Reiter $32.50, Leon Kluck $28.00, Fred Kluck, Jr. $8.00, Ladislav Brichacek $4.00, Frank Vrba $66.00, James Hernik $55.00, C. L. Jones $4.00, Edward Faltys $42.00, John Cech $39.00.Tuesday’s election will be recorded in the annals of Lincoln precinct as the first election since 1880, that gave the republican presidential candidate a majority. Every democratic presidential candidate since Cleveland’s administration, including Bryan, received the majority of votes, save Cox.
With only three exceptions, all republican candidates were leaders.
The ladies’ vote was not as large as was expected, only 109 women at Howells turning out to the polls. A total vote of 394 was cast.
Mike Hader was elected precinct assessor, Rud. Dopita, Justice of Peace and Jerry Vacha and J. A. Dostal, road overseers.Born to Mr. and Mrs. John Parr, residing near Olean, a fine baby girl on Thursday of last week.
The many friends of Mr. and Mrs James Palik of Howells surprised them at their beautiful home Sunday, which was their 25th wedding anniversary.
The evening was spent playing cards after which refreshments were served. The worthy couple was presented a set of silverware as a token of remembrance by their friends.Edward, the 13-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Vesely, Howells, who had been critically ill for the past two months with spinal meningitis, has now sufficiently recovered to be pronounced out of danger by the attending physician, Dr. Myers.
Paul Nagengast and Max Blum of Howells took a spin to West Point in a new runabout last week.
Dr. F. B. Schultz returned from a few days hunt at the old Hashberger island near Schuyler. He reports that a good bagging was made.
Mrs. Frank V. Uridil left for Rochester, Minn., to consult the famous Mayo specialists regarding her hearing which of late has been causing her considerable annoyance.
Mrs. Clyde Karel and son, Roland, were passengers to Omaha yesterday morning for a few days visit with relatives.
Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda and daughter, Olga, journeyed to the state metropolis yesterday.
Last week, Prazak Motor Co. unloaded a full carload of Ford cars and are now ready to supply the trade.
Miss Rose Habenicht, who was a guest at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hejtmanek the past month left for Minneapolis, Minn., where she makes her home.
A Peace Day dance will be given Thursday, Nov. 11 at the Bohemian National hall in Howells, by the ladies of St. John’s church. Music will be by the Sindelar orchestra and a prize will be given to the best looking couple on the floor.
The farm home of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hahn was the scene of a fascinating Halloween party, given in honor of the Ladies’ Aid society and a long list of guests.
A large gathering including the husbands of the members of the society attended the affair and amused themselves royally at various games and frolics appropriate to the occasion.
Enchanting Haloween decorations adorned the commodious rooms. Later in the evening, dainty refreshments and luncheon was served by the host and hostess.Mrs. Emil Petr of this place received appointment from Governor McKelvie, as one of the delegates from our county to the National Farm Congress to be held in Columbus, Ohio, on Nov. 16-19.
The other appointees from the county are: J. K. Semerad of Howells; County Agent Nye of Schuyler; J. S. Jonas of Schuyler and Mrs. B. F. Farrell, also of Schuyler.The following is a report of car sales made by Rychtig Bros., automobile dealers of Clarkson: New cars— Jos. Nagengast, Buick; Frank Mundil, Buick; Ed Panek, Dodge; Frank Podany, Dodge.
Second hand cars—Joe Franek (2) Fords; Chas. Luedeke, Ford; George Pahl, Ford; Jos. Karel, Ford; Jos. Richtig, Ford; Jerry Telecky, Ford; Frank Batelka, Ford; Ed Panek, Ford; Jerry Pacas, Overland; Emil E. Matejka, Oakland; Emil Lodl, Buick.I wish to announce that I am ready to do all kinds of sewing. All work neatly done. I also do beading, braiding and embroidering.
When you are in need of work in this line call on me. I will always be at your service. Located in John Buresh residence in the west part of Clarkson. Mrs. E. Miller.Clarkson markets were: Wheat $1.80, Oats 10c, Corn 60c, Rye $1.40, Hogs $12.50, Butter 30c, Eggs 48c.
A big Shooting Match will be held Sunday afternoon, Nov. 7 at the J. J. Novotny farm, 5 miles south and 1 3/4 miles east of Clarkson.
Forty fattened geese and 25 ducks will be awarded to winners. The big shooting match is sponsored by Emil Novotny.Jaroslav Krofta has annourced that a Grand Shooting Match will be held his farm, 4 miles north of Clarkson on Sunday, Nov. 7.
The match is open to all. Forty-two fattened geese and 30 ducks will be awarded to winners.A Peace Day Dance will be given by the local American Legion, Vitek Post # 188 on Nov. 11 at the Clarkson Opera House.
The Jirovec orchestra has been engaged for the occasion.Ted Fillipi arrived from Burlington, Colo., where he is spending most of his time attending to real estate business.
Saturday he left for Omaha for a few days visit with his mother.Emil E. Wolf and family motored over from Morse Bluff Saturday for an over-Sunday visit.
Owing to the slushy weather, he was obliged to leave his car here and return home by rail, Monday. His family remained here for a few days.
November 4, 1920 - reprinted December 25, 1985For Sale: I have a thoroughbred registered Shorthorn bull for sale. Registration No. Dick 619176, Transfer No. 75767. Calved March 4, 1917, and in excellent condition. This is a fine animal and will do the service for the farmer wishing to better his herd. Price moderate. Call and see him. Frank Sterba, Rt. 4, Clarkson, Nebr.
One day last week, we were shown a very clever way of making remittances. Our local hardware firm, Wolf & Vitek were indebted to a Dodge businessman the sum of 65c.
This account has been running for only a very short time and from the communication the firm received from their creditor of the 65c, one would be made to think that the Dodge businessman was only depending on this sum to carry his business. To hurry his remittance and not cause the Dodge man any inconvenience in cashing a draft or check, Mr. Vitek decided to send cash.
To make sure delivery, he took a two-foot board about six inches in width into which he drilled 65 holes and in each space placed a penny, set in putty and shellac.
Just how the recipient accepted the remittance, we did not learn.The Clarkson chapter of the American Legion, Vitek Post, held a special meeting Monday evening when it was unanimously agreed to celebrate the second anniversary of the signing of Armistice, Nov. 11, which was also the closing of the great world war.
Richtig Bros., have opened a battery station in the room above their garage. They have installed all necessary equipment to make a first class service station.
Otto Sobeslavsky, who is well versed in this line, will have charge of the new department.Yesterday morning, the entire teaching corps of the local school went to Omaha, to be in attendance at the state meet.
Those going down were: Prof. Prokop, Mrs. Reinecke, Misses Deming, Phillips, Louis Phelps, Anna Horak, Sylvia Sobeslavsky, Lillie Suchy, Martha Bukacek, Libbie R. Novotny, Agnes Vraspir, Agnes Novotny and Josie Sterba.
Misses Tillie and Emilie Pokorny and Nathan Moore, constituted the rural district delegation.
Miss Mabel Moore was also one of the visitors going down with the teachers.Rev. Jos. Bata and J. M. Mundil were among the Omaha-bound passengers this morning.
The matter of making a change in the present passenger schedule on this branch has been given the careful consideration of all towns west of Fremont as far as Humphrey.
On Saturday, The Press office was made a business call from Hon. Geo. Wolz of Fremont, the most ambitious good roads booster in the state, and Walter Reynolds of the Fremont Tribune, who were making a trip along the branch, circulating petitions among the citizens relative to the contemplated change.
The petition calls for the restoration of the former schedule as near as possible.J. C. Boone of Omaha recently brought action through Labor Commissioner, Frank Kennedy for damages under the Employers Compensation act for injuries alleged to have been sustained during the month of August, while at work on the J. E. Higgins farm northeast of Schuyler.
Boone states in his petition to the Labor commissioner that he sustained injuries by slipping on a grain bundle, while in charge of a wagon at threshing time, sustaining an injury to us knee that his earning capacity is $36.00 per week, and that according to the workman's compensation act he is entitled to $15 per week from Mr. Higgins, diring the period of his incapacity.
The summons was served on Mr. Higgins two weeks ago and the hearing was conducted in Schuyler on the 14th.
Last week Mr. Higgins received notice that the labor commissioner had assessed the maximum, $15 per week damages, that the same should be paid weekly until the plaintiff submitted to a medical examination to determine the extent of his injuries and until such time as the injured man regains full use of himself.
Mr. Higgins was represented at the hearing by Attorney B. F. Farrel of Schuyler, and after receiving the verdict of the labor commissioner, appealed the case to the district court. Mr. Boone represented to the labor commissioner that he was acting as a part of a threshing crew, whereas Mr Higgins claims that he was acting merely as a farm laborer.
A farm laborer does not come under the protection of the Workman’s Compensation Act, whereas the member of a threshing crew does, and Mr. Boone brought action under the latter.Emil Folda, J. M. Mundil and Joe Mundil of Clarkson were business callers in Schuyler Wednesday. In conversation with the writer, Mr. Folda stated that he hoped to see a movement started in the city of Schuyler and Colfax county for the purpose of using the old courthouse and converting it into a county hospital, rather than see the old structure razed, and the beautful grounds used for other purposes.
The Hampshire sale of J. J. Dudycha was an unfortunate affair as the day was rainy, and during the afternoon, when the sale was to have been held, the precipitation was heaviest. Mr. Dudycha sold about 10 head however, at an average of $80 per head.
Jaroslav Folda and Dr. Kolouch this week through the realty agency of Unkel & Dlouhy, purchased the John Prokes 320 acre farm, situated in Rogers precinct, northeast of Schuyler, the purchase price being $300 per acre, $96,000 for the farm.
Having decided to give up the general practice of medicine in Schuyler and take up operative work at the Fremont hospital, Dr. C. G. Moore will close the Schuyler hospital the first of November and move to Fremont, where his mother resides.
Mrs. Moore and their daughter, Lerlain, will spend the winter with relatives in Baltimore as the docter has been unable to secure a residence in Fremont.
Dr. Moore will leave Schuyler about the middle of November. It has been quite impossible to secure registered nurses for hospital work in small cities and this has greatly handicapped Dr. Moore in his work in Schuyler.
November 4, 1920 - reprinted January 1, 1986The following is a news matter which appeared in a recent issue of the Fremont Tribune. Mr. Marek is well known in this part of the county, having resided for many years at Dodge and has a host of relatives in this community.
"Henry Marek is going to be mighty careful and keep a close tab on his gasoline supply in the future and he has made a resolution to buy no more of it at North Bend. He bought a gallon here last Sunday and it cost him just $6.35 a gallon and thereby hangs a tale.
Mr. Marek and his family were out enjoying the fine day and drove over the country and came in from the northwest on the North Bend grade. Just as he approached town his engine began to spit and complain about the limited supply of gas and an investigation showed that he only had a wee bit in his tank and he almost prayed that it would take him to the nearest filling station.
He drove right down Main street and got to Monich’s and coming from the north cut directly over to the garage. While he was getting a gallon of gas, Mrs. Marek asked why the men on the street were snickering and Mr. Marek thought there must be some joke, of course on the other guy.
When Marshal Lehmer approached as he settled for his gallon of gas for 35 cents, he asked him if he did not know that he was violating the laws of the town and of course he didn’t. He had cut directly across the street instead of driving to the corner and around the dummy traffic man. He put up a bond and the next morning journeyed to North Bend and paid a fine of $2.00 and costs, $6.00 in all."A republican landslide!
Tuesday, Nov. 2, witnessed the greatest election day in the history of the United States and we must say it was nothing short of a republican avalanche that swept the states clean from coast to coast.
For some years to come the republicans will have the power of the land in their hands and we are hopeful that they will guide the stateship to a new and better era than we have been going through these dark and trying days.
From the reports pouring in from all sides it seems as though the world was turning republican.
Likewise, in Colfax county the republican tide has taken into office every republican candidate on the ticket with unheard of plurabities.
For president Colfax county gave Harding 1987; Cox 945. For governor, McKelvie 1009; Moorehead 1725; Wray 572. The entire republican ticket polled a large vote. For congressman Evans carried Colfax county 2 to 1. The vote stood: Evans 1269; Rice 809; Mrs. Weeks 630.The Zion and New Zion congregations have decided to give a joint program at the Clarkson opera house Sunday afternoon, Nov. 14, in observance of the anniversary of the great Bohemian pedagogue and reformer of modern teaching, Jan Amos Kamensky.
An appropriate program will be rendered by the members of both parishes, including addresses and brief sketches of the life of the renouned philosopher and educator by the Messrs. Rev. Filipi and Rev. Havlik.
Entrance to the program will be free.
November 11, 1920 - reprinted January 8, 1986A Peace Day dance will be held Nov. 11 at the Opera House in Clarkson. The Jirovec Orchestra has been engaged for the occasion. Refreshments and lunch in abundance all evening.
Clarkson markets: Wheat $1.60, oats 38c, corn 60c, rye $1.30, hogs $12.00, butter 30c, eggs 48c.
A. J. Karel & Sons had a quarter page ad in The Colfax County Press advertising Winter eating apples: Extra fancy Jonathans, Extra fancy Winesaps, Extra fancy Winter Pearmains and Extra fancy Winter Bananas, $3.25 per box.
Prazak Motor Company, doing business in Clarkson and Howells, report the following sales of Ford cars since their last statement: Sedan to William A. Swoboda, Clarkson; touring cars to Barney Lorenzen of Howells and Frank Janousek, Clarkson. Frank Coufal of Howells purchased a runabout.
James Zoubek, formerly of Clarkson and of late employed by the Folda Bank at Howells, was elected cashier of the First National Bank of Stanton.
Edward Vitek and Louis V. Hand, both ex-servicemen, departed for Buhl, Idaho, where they may locate permanently.
Mr. Vitek’s place at the Clarkson meat market will be taken up by Jos. Kuzelka, a young man hailing from Beemer. Mr. Kuzelka will enter the position by the first of the coming week.After five years of patiently waiting, our leading general merchandise firm, A. J. Karel & Sons, succeeded in re-employing the services of Mr. Old Man Dollar, who is again faithfully performing his full duty at their store.
This store has tried to bring the prices back to somewhere near the pre-war basis and have succeeded in doing so to a greater extent.
It is now up to you to visit their place of business and see for yourself what Old Man Dollar will do for you.Emil Petr and J. D. Wolf of this place were selected as members of the federal jury which was to convene in Omaha last Tuesday and later was postponed to an indefinite date.
Adolph Jonas informs us that he has decided to go back into the commission business at this point and after the first of December will start buying livestock at his former place of business.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Pokorny is rejoicing over the birth of a fine baby boy, born last week.
Jerry Kovar was a passenger to Omaha on Monday. We understand that he submitted to an operation for hernia.
Vance Kovarik, our new electrician, left for Crete Monday to assist his family in packing up their household goods and moving them to Clarkson.
Jos. R. Vitek accompanied his cousin, F. F. Vitek to Omaha, where the latter was to undergo an operation for a chronic ailment.
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Hrabak were up from Dodge for an over-Sunday visit at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Wittgow.
Ed Polcin and F. J. Miller were at Howells to attend the funeral of their uncle. Frank Evert, Sr., who died at the golden age of 80 years.
Misses Edna and Ester Fajman enroute of Anselmo from Omaha, where they attended the teachers’ convention, stopped off here Saturday for a brief visit at home.
On Monday of next week, a change will be made in the management of the local municipal light plant. Mr. Kovark, who recently came from Crete, will have jurisdiction over the plant.
He will act in the capacity of superintendent and chief electrician.
Julius Wacha, who has supervised the plant for several months, will serve as policeman and relief man for the power station.
J. F. Brinley, the present engineer, was relieved from the job, and his position will be looked after by John Havel.Acting on the request of the commissioners of Colfax county, I hereby strictly prohibit dumping rubbish of any kind into the ditches approaching the bridge over Maple Creek in the east part of Clarkson. Anyone caught in violation of this notice will be prosecuted to the full extent of law. --Emil Fendrich, Roal Master.
Adv. Guard your lungs with Lurgardia. Sold by J. L. Stransky in Clarkson. Lungardia opens the respiratory organs, removes the thick masses of sputum, heals the irritation, dispels the cough and cold. Unsurpassed in spasmodic Croup, Bronchitis, difficult breathing, and such kindred illnesses and diseases. Thousands attest to its great virtues. Price 6Oc and $1.20. If Lungardia fails, your money refunded.
Old Man Dollar specials at Karel & Sons store were: Men’s Barn Yard brand shoes, $5.90. Heavy weight blue denim overalls, $2.00. 27 inch wide ginghams, 35c yard. 36 inch percales, 30c yard. Pretty all-wool 70x80 novelty plaid blankets, $15.00. Sugar, fine granulated cane, 100 pounds $12.50.
November 11, 1920 - reprinted January 15, 1986Norman Fowler of Leigh received his Victory medal. The medal is a beautiful ribbon in the national colors to which is appended the medallion. Across the ribbon are five bars containing the names of the five important engagements in which Mr. Fowler took part.
These are: "Champane Marne," "Aisne Maine," "St. Mihiel," "Meuse Argonne," and "Defensive Sector."
They are very few of the boys that can show any more bars than Mr. Fowler.Ralph Titus resigned his position as cashier of the Stanton National Bank and will go to Albion in the near future, where he will go into the lumber business with his brother, Frank.
Mr. Titus was a very capable man for the Stanton National and will be greatly missed.
James Zoubek of Howells has accepted the position made by Mr. Titus’ resignation. He was formerly employed by the Folda Bank of Howells and has had a great deal of banking experience.Traveling to a hog sale by airplane was an innovation introduced in Stanton yesterday. When Hank Cruse, auctioneer, and Fred DeVore, publisher of DeVore's National Duroc Year Book, missed the train in Omaha, which was to bring them to the Ed Kern sale at Stanton, they immediately chartered an airplane, left Omaha after 11 o’clock and arrived in Stanton before noon at which time the sale was scheduled to begin.
The sale was ranked among the best Mr. Kern held, considering the present conditions. The total sale brought in $25,175 and the top boar sold for $1,150. The first 50 sold at an average price of $450 each and the average for the total 75 sold was $335.Frank Evert, Sr., one of the very earliest pioneers of Colfax County and for many years a resident of Howells, laid down the burdens of this life and passed away in peaceful death at an early hour Saturday morning, following an illness of only two days.
He was born in Germany on the 16th day of November, 1875,where he lived until he attained manhood under the iron rule of militarism. The hardships and privations that fell to his lot were numerous and learning of the many opportunities extended in America, he did not hesitate in leaving the land of his birth and soon found himself on the shores of the United States.
Shortly after his arrival in this country he formed the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth Pojar, whom he married at St. Charles in the month of November 1875.
This marriage was blessed with 13 children, five of whom preceded their father in death.
The survivors besides the widow are Mrs. Anna Mejstrik, Mrs. Mary Karel, Mrs. Emma Dlouhy and Mrs. Julia Chilcoat, daughters; and Joseph, Frank, Louis and Adolph, sons. He also leaves two sisters and one brother, Mrs Josephine Polcin, Mrs. Kemp and Edward Evert.Rev. A. Janda of Howells was in Dodge between trains Tuesday.
Mrs. Jos. Nykodem is reported seriously ill in her home at Howells. A trained nurse, Miss Katherine Donahue is assisting the family in caring for her.
The 40-acre farm east of Schuyler "sheep ranch" was purchased this week by John E. Sedlacek of J. A. Prokes, the purchase price being $400 per acre--$16,000.
The little farm was used as a feeding yard for many years, where thousands of sheep were prepared for market.
The tract was proposed some weeks ago as a good location for a county fair ground, and the deal even went so far that an option was taken by the committees appointed to purchase the site.
Opposition developed, however, and the deal fell through so far as the county fair association is concerned. The county fair proposition has now lost out on two good sites, the Bornholdt 30-acre tract just west of Schuyler, and now the sheep ranch.
Mr. Sedlacek, who has been a rural mail carrier, proposes to open a gravel pit on the land, and sell the output, as there is considerable demand for the road and street graveling purpose.At a special meeting of the Village trustees of Clarkson, it was agreed to hire Vance Kovarik to overhaul all the transmission lines in Clarkson. He was hired at a salary of $175.00 per calendar month to do this work.
Two carloads of coal purchased from the Danahue Coal Co., cost $298.36.
The Village of Clarkson also purchased two carloads of coal from the Ruthledge and Taylor Co. for $241.85 and four carloads of coal from F. S. Nartin & Co., for $998.01.
November 11, 1920 - reprinted January 22, 1986The Zion and New Zion congregations have decided to give a joint program at the Clarkson Opera House on Nov. 14, in observance of the anniversary of the great Bohemian pedagogue and reformer of modern teaching, Jan Amos Komensky.
An appropriate program will be rendered by the members of both parishes, including addresses and brief sketches of the life of the renowned philosopher and educator by Messrs. Rev. Filipi and Rev. Havlik.One of the largest corn crops in the history of Nebraska is standing well matured in every field, but in as much as the same is not ready for marketing, and unsatisfactory low prices for the product, makes it impossible to realize funds from that source at present. Funds from this source will materially change conditions in the next 90 days.
The 1920 oats crop was not nearly as large as anticipated due to heavy spring rains which hardened the ground, and made a well matured crop out of question. Farmers who have a crop of oats on hand are keeping the same off the market due to the fact that present prices for oats are the lowest experienced for a great period. In fact, prices offered for oats at the present time do not off-set the expense in connection with raising the crop. This features materially also to present tightness of the money market.
Charles Gibbs, residing a few miles southwest of Norfolk, had a fine herd of 35 hogs but this dwindled down to a herd of 10 by Saturday morning, 25 of them having died from the effects of poisoning. From an investigation made it is thought that the poison wes contained in some stock food that had been fed the hogs on Friday night.
November 11, 1920 - reprinted January 29, 1986It takes one to two years to get cattle and hogs ready for market. Last year the corn market was as high as $1.85 per bushel, which made the feeding of cattle and hogs at their low price, very profitable, and in fact, this spring came on and found most farmers without cattle and hogs due to high prices of feed.
Those who did feed lost money. Others boarded their corn crop, and felt that while the price paid for corn was $1.85 top, they wanted $2.00. A great mistake was made there by many farmers. The same crop they were offered $1.85 per bushel for, has recently been dumped on the market for as low as 60c thus causing big loss on account of not turning loose these crops at the proper time, also adding to the present money situation.Mrs. Josephine Novak Sloma died at the home of her daughter at Meadow Grove on Oct. 29, 1920. She was 79 years old and had been in poor health for some time.
The subject of this sketch was born in Poland, then a part of Germany. In 1871 she came to America & stopped in Illinois for six years, then in 1877 they came to Colfax County, Nebr., where most of the remainder of her life was spent. The husband died aboat 14 years ago and since then she had made her home with her sons, Stash and Paul, until of late years she had been with her daughter, Mrs. Mayme Elsner of Meadow Grove, where death occurred.
She leaves to mourn four sons and one daughter. They are Frank of Rogers, John whose residence is unknown, Paul of Schuyler and Stash Sloma of Rogers, Nebr., and Mrs. Elsner.
She is also survived by two sisters who live in Chicago, but were unable to attend the funeral. A Chicago neighbor, John Szukalla, was here for the funeral held at Dublin Church in Colfax County.During the war, when the drives for the sale of Liberty Bonds were on, all banks were urged to use all their credit to buy Liberty Bonds for their customers, which they did. It found all bank’s customers giving notes in payment for these bonds. In so many instances these customers still owe these notes at the banks, while the Liberty Bonds have been traded or disposed of for worthless packing house stocks, oil stocks and other wildcat propositions, which have turned out to be an absolute loss this making the situation the same as though the original amount of money borrowed had been absolutely thrown away.
Reserve banks in turn have made it so much harder for city banks to borrow from them on the same basis they did when the Liberty Bonds were being sold, thus there is a strong reaction from the city bank to the country bank, making it almost impossible to obtain credit on the best of notes from the city banker.Real Estate Transfer: John C. Ehernberger to Harry E. Phelps, lot l7 and 18 in Block 7, Howells, consideration $25.00; quit claim deed.
November 18, 1920 - reprinted January 29, 1986A heavy cloud of sorrow spread over Schuyler last Sunday afternoon when the sad intelligence announcing the sudden death of Mrs. Chauncey Abbott, Jr., of Omaha, was received. It was first announced that death was due to a nervous breakdown from which she was suffering for a period of two years.
Later it became known that she committed suicide. Her body was found in the bathroom of the Abbott home at Omaha, Sunday noon, by her husband, when he climbed a ladder and broke in the bathroom window. The body was partly clothed and a revolver was still clutched in the hand. The right temple has been pierced by a bullet. Attempts were made to supress the cause of death.
Mrs. Abbott was formerly Miss Lillian Fitzgerald of Lincoln. The Abbott family made their home at Schuyler for many years and three years ago they moved to Omaha where Mr. Abbott became vice president of the Omaha Flour Mills.
The deceased is survived by her husband and an eight-year-old son. She was buried at Lincoln where her parents reside.Josephine Placek of Platte county, desires her freedom & alimony from William Placek, whom she alleges deserted her last June, leaving her with seven children and no means of support.
She says he is earning $150 monthly, and asks $50 a month alimony. The family resided near Clarkson for a number of years.Chief J. R. Vitek and Ed Makovsky were chosen by the local fire department as delegates to the state convention of the Nebraska Volunteer Fire Department to be held in York in the middle of next month.
November 18, 1920 - reprinted February 5, 1986Jack Ondracek of Schuyler, weighing 190 pounds and Fred Kenny of Spalding, weighing 167 pounds, each won a fall in a wrestling match in Columbus, in what was to have been a finish match before an American Legion audience.
Kenny won the first, a flying fall, in 19 minutes. He won the second fall in 24 minutes with a headlock.John Kucera, a resident of Clarkson, living in the northeast part of town, passed away yesterday evening at the hour of 8:00, after a prolonged illness.
The deceased was born in the land of Bohemia in 1863 and 11 years ago immigrated to this country with his family. They located locally and lived here since.
He leaves besides his widow eight children Frank, Bohumil, James, John, Frances, Paul, Joseph and Bessie. The remains were interned into the cemetery west of Clarkson.THE TRUTH ABOUT MAIL ORDER HOUSES - "A doctor in a small town purchased an item or two from one of the large mail order houses - enough to get his name on their mailing list. Later on, when he failed to order more goods, the catalog house’s follow-up man got busy and in one of his letters asked a number of sterotyped questions as to why the former no longer patronized his house. The following is the sensible and hard headed doctor’s reply:
"Your letter of recent date asked why I had not traded with you for a long time, received, and as you asked me to tell you frankly why, I will give you a few reasons.
"First -- I am in business in this community, with its varied industries for my support. I cannot ask the merchants of the town for their support if I do not give them mine.
"Second -- In looking over my books I fail to find either Mr. -- , Mr. —- or other of the company’s names, which reminds me that neither of these gentlemen have never given me a penny’s patronage. Why is this? Am I too far away, or have neither of them needed a physician, or are they afraid of the mail order plan when it comes to the practice of medicine? I can certainly give as good satisfaction by mail as your house can and will appreciate a call from either of them when in need of medical services.
Third -- In looking over the subscription lists for improving our streets and public highways, I have failed to find the name of either member of your firm down for one penny to assist in the work. Also have failed to find your name on any charity lists where help has been rendered to our poor: in other words, you are not down as a contributor to our Helping Hand Society. In fact, in all the movements for the betterment of our conditions, where our community has needed the united efforts of her public spirited citizens, I have failed to find your name among the list of contributors. Your name is not on our city tax books, nor do I find where you have paid a city license to do merchantile business in competition with our home town merchants.
"There are a few answers to your questions and I trust you will see justice in them."
"That the prosperity of a town may properly be gauged by the prosperity of its merchants needs no arguments. If the people of the town spend their money out of town - send it to Chicago catalogue houses - the merchants get just that much less, the town loses that much trade and that much money would eventually go toward bettering conditions in that town, and in fact, building up the town itself."Anton Kopac returned to his home in Schuyler after a business trip to Detroit, where some 700 dealers from various parts of the nation were guests of Dodge Brothers, for an inspection trip through the immense works.
Mr. Kopac states that production is now the greatest in the history of the firm, as high as 764 cars being turned out in a single day.Marriage licenses were issued this week to Edward E. Dostal, 24, Colfax county and Bertha Pickhinke, 23, Stanton county; and William J. Dostal, 27, and Helen Dusek, 20, bot of Colfax county.
Architect George A. Berlinghof of Lincoln, Nebraska met the county commissioners Monday at which time the second draft of the new courthouse plans were gone over and found to be perfect, no further changes being deemed necessary or advisable, except the enlargement of coal space adjoining the heating plant.
Peter Zak was manager of the Farmers Shipping Association in Clarkson.
November 18, 1920 - reprinted February 12, 1986Mrs. Barbara Kavan of Dodge, died at her home November 7, 1920. She was 68 years old. She was born in Lhota, Bohemia, Sept. 22. 1852 and came to America in 1869. She lived in Dodge for the past 18 years and her maiden name was Barbara Kucera.
Her marriage to Joseph Kavan took place April 17, 1872. Five children are living to mourn the loss of a loving mother. They are Frank of Dodge, Mrs. Jos. Studnicka of Farwell, Mrs Frank Bazata of Howells, Mrs. Frank Wisnieski of Olean and Miss Josie who was at home with her mother. Also survivng is a brother, V. Kucera of Howells.
Funeral services were conducted in St. Wenceslaus church with pastor, Father Petlach, and assisted by Father Korte of Dodge and Father Janda of Howells.L. N. Weidner of Howells wired the new parsonage at Heun last week. Because of the cold weather, the carpenters were unable to work much until the furnace is installed.
Several people from the Praha vicinity hurried to the Andrew Stoltenburg farm last Sunday after the call came that their house was on fire. It was impossible to save the structure but most of the furniture was carried to safety.
Corn picking in the Heun area is in full swing. A few farmers have finished the task already and all agree that this year’s crop is the best yield they have had for many years.
H. L. Nye, County agent reports that men for corn picking seems to be very scarce. Reports from St. Louis, St. Joseph, Kansas City, Omaha and Des Moines say that men for this kind of work are not available, and while the price for picking is not as attractive to these nubbin slingers as it has previously been as good, wages can still be earned in this occupation as in other lines of labor.
Miss Carolyn Andersen returned to her home in the Praha vicinity after a two-years’ stay in Michigan. Miss Andersen held down a position in one of Uncle Sam’s ammuniton factories there and we hear that she found it very interesting.
The teachers at the Howells school were given a few days vacation on account of the boiler undergoing repairs.
Anton Konvalin of Winner, S.D., arrived in Howells to attend the funeral of his sister, Mrs. Jos. Nykodem.
This writer had the opportunity to visit F. A. Dvorak’s farm north of Howells and view Mr. Dvorak’s splendid herd of Poland Chinas. Mr. Dvorak's herd boar, Superior Jack, is a real monster and being only 20 months old, he weighs over 800 pounds and is rapidly gaining.
Most of Mr. Dvorak’s yearling sows weigh from 350 to 400 pounds and are not as fat as they are only given small rations daily.Next Tuesday the automobile owner having the largest license number will be given $10.00 in trade at Suchan Bros. store in Howells. The contest is open to all parties parking their cars near the store and the one who has the largest license number will be proclaimed winner of the $10.00 trading draft.
Various corn records are reported througbout the country, but to our opinion, F. A. Dvorak holds the record for the highest corn yield in this part of the country. According to his report, he is yielding from 70 to 78 bushels per acre and the corn is of the very best quality.
Mrs. James Zoubek and baby of Howells were in Omaha the latter part of the week visiting her sisters, Mrs. E. Koza and brothers, F. C. and Charles F. Sindelar.
R. M. Dutcher, who has been local manager of the Nebraska Telephone Co. since the resignation of Lambert Sindelar, has brought his wife down from Norfolk and have gone to housekeeping in the F. J. Pimper residence south of the Sindelar block in Howells.
Funeral services for Mrs. Marie Nykodem, the beloved wife of Joseph Nykodem, were held from the family home with services at the Bohemian hall in Howells.
A short time ago she underwent an operation for appendicitis and never rallied ater the surgery. She was born on March 25, 1860 in Habry, Czechoslovakia and when she was a mere nine years of age, came to this country with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Konvalin, and made Colfax county her home for the past half century.
She was married to Joseph Nykodem on Jan. 28, 1878 and is survived by her husband and three daughters, Mrs. Anna Blazek, Mrs. Rosie Dostal and Miss Mary. Other survivors are one sister, Mrs. Anna Sindelar and two brothers, Anton and Vaclav Konvalin.
Omitted, but probably November 18, 1920 - reprinted February 19, 1986Mrs. Josie Hamernik of Clarkson has filed a petition with the clerk of district court of Stanton county, asking for a partition sale of the farm left by her late husband, Anton Hamernik, and situated 7 miles north of Clarkson.
The sale wll be held Dec. 9, 1920.What becomes of the high priced sires is often asked. A clipping from the Omaha Stockman Journal accounts for one that Tom Mortimer of Madison refused $4,000 for. The bull sold on the Omaha market for $6.50 or a total of $107.90.
Two young men, said to be sons of wealthy Stanton county farmers, are charged in complaints filed by County Attorney Cowan with raiding the farm of Joseph Spence and stealing a large number of ducks. The ducks were identified in a Norfolk poultry house by Mrs. Spence, who accompanied Sheriff Ely to that city. The two men are said to have transported the stolen poultry to Norfolk in a luxurious motor car.
Louis Kander, residing 8 miles north and 2 miles east of Clarkson, will hold a farm sale Dec. 20.
We are in receipt of the sorrowful news that the home of Mr. and Mrs Jos. Klinsky, former residents of this community, now residing in Boone County, is saddened by the death of their infant daughter, born a little over two weeks ago. The little form was laid to rest in the cemetery near Leigh last Sunday.
Last Friday just a few minutes after one o’clock the residents of Dodge were startled by hearing the fire alarm. The fire was at the A. J. Miller home. The fire was supposed to have started from a spark falling on the roof from the chimney.
The fire department turned out in record time and the fire was soon put out by Mrs. Miller from the inside and at the same time John Roper ascended to the roof and soon had it under control outside. The damage was very slight, just two small holes burned through the roof.The 22nd annual Firemen’s Dance will be held Nov. 25 at the Opera House in Clarkson. Music for this grand occasion will furnished by the Jirovec Orchestra.
Clarkson Markets were: Wheat $1.57, oats 35c, rye $1.25, corn 50c, hogs $11.00, butter 30c, eggs 50c.
John Prokopec, accompanied by his father, Vicene Prokopec, went to Omaha, where he will again undergo an operation. He submitted to the first operation only a few weeks ago but failed to find relief.
Miss Esther Svoboda went to Traer, Iowa to pay a visit to her friend, Mrs. Jos. Yukl, formerly Miss Margaret Kutin of this city. She expects to be gone for some time.
Mrs. F. M. May of Dunlap, Iowa is a guest since last week at the homes of her daughter, Mrs. Walter Hahn, and her son, Harry May, residing south of Howells.
In recognizance of the efficient service rendered his superiors, the owners of Fajman Motor Co., have shown their appreciation to their employee, F. J. Wacha, who has been their bookkeeper for a number of years by promoting him to the position of assistant manager and bookkeeper.
Filbert is a faithful employee and worthy of every advancement given him.Frank Bos and Vaclav Bartak make weekly trips to Schuyler, where they are taking chiropractic treatments.
Last Tuesday, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Podany went to Omaha, where Mrs. Podany is to be operated for appendicitis.
Mrs Frank Uridil returned to her home from Rochester, Minn., where she had been receiving treatment from the hands of the famous Mayo doctors.
Miss Libbie Fillipi was in Fremont, Tuesday, where she makes regular trips every two weeks taking musical instruction.
The C.N.W. railway company has a force of men here this week rebuilding the platform and also doing other necessary repairs at the depot.
November 18, 1920 - reprinted February 26, 1986A deal was closed whereby W. C. Brunswick sold his residence property at Leigh to Ray Olson for the consideration of $7,000.
Dr. C. H. Newell was called to Leigh to perform an operation for appendicitis on John Teply living ten miles south of Leigh. He was assisted by Dr. Lowery.
Rats are becoming a growing menace in Leigh. They are no longer confined to the elevators, but have now moved into the businesses and even residential sections. Several families have found them in the walls of their homes where they make such a racket at night that they cannot sleep. At the depot they are also a great menace, getting into the foodstuffs that are left in the freight room at night.
November 25, 1920 - reprinted March 5, 1986J. M. Zrust, Richard Karel, Ed. Makousky and Leonard Rozmarin were at Humphrey last Sunday participating in a shooting match. They succeeded in bringing home several turkeys, geese and ducks and of course, Richard was the "high" man.
The city had a mechanical expert at the power plant this week adjusting the new engine and otherwise doing general work on the equipment that needed touching up.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vidlak returned home from a several days’ visit at Abie, where they attended the wedding of Frank’s sister, who became the bride of John Misek, a fireman on the Burlington line from Lincoln. The newly wedded couple came up with them for a brief wedding trip.
Frank V. Vitek, who had been detained in one of the Omaha hospitals for several weeks following a double operation for appendicitis and hernia, arrived home Sunday. He is well on the way to recovery and will soon be able to resume his duties as mail carrier.
Miss Emma Podany, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Podany of Stanton county, submitted to an operation for appendicitis in Omaha last week.
Mrs. Kolarik, Sr. of Crete was here a few days visiting at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. W. Kavan.
Mrs. Joseph T. Votava and daughter returned to Omaha after spending a few days at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. Dusatko.
F. F. Mundil and family motored over from Linwood last Friday for a days visit at the Mundil and Folda homes. They were here again on Sunday for a visit, as was W. B. Sadilek and family of Schuyler.
Our leading poultry fancier, F. V. Uridil shipped two of his white Wyandotte pullets to the Omaha poultry show. The two birds Frank sent down are of excellent species and winners of several prizes.
Clarkson Markets were: Wheat $1.30, oats 33c, corn 35c, hogs $9.50, rye $1.10, butter 30c and eggs 50c.
An alarming epidemic of hog cholera has broken out in Madison county. Hundreds of valuable hogs have died from the disease which, according to an announcement made by the County Agent Stewart, is sweeping all parts of the county located south of the Elkhorn River.
Miss Anna Cakl returned to her duties at one of the ladies’ furnishing stores in Norfolk, after a few days vacation at the home of her family in Howells.
Dr. Myers reports the birth of a husky baby boy at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Brester of Howells, born last Friday.
We are informed that Rev. P. Walschmidt, pastor of the Trinity Lutheran church in Howells, has handed in his resignation and will leave for Pender, where he will serve the local parish.
Miss Helen Dusek and William J. Dostal exchanged wedding vows on Tuesday of last week at Trinity church at Heun. After the church services, they autoed to the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Dusek, south of Howells, where a sumptuous wedding reception was in reparation.
The bridal pair was escorted to the altar by Miss Tillie Dostal and Jerry Petricek.
The day was spent at the farm home in honor of the event.
The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Dostal. They will make their home on the Jos. Semerad farm east of Howells.Emil Novotny, who was seriously ill the last few days, is reported to be improved. He has been afflicted with pleurisy and complications.
Mrs. J. P. Fiala of Howells was hostess to the "Nah Zirkel" club Thursday afternoon at which occasion all enjoyed a pleasant time.
Jerry Zak, Jos. Indra, Adolph Karel and Victor Wacha of Clarkson attended a card party in Howells, Sunday.
The Koza Pharmacy is lining up for the holiday business in the Edison line. They already made one sale, having sold a fine instrument to John Schaeffer of Clarkson. The Koza Pharmacy is located in Howells.
November 25, 1920 - reprinted March 12, 1986Thieves, believed to be working in a gang, entered and robbed the department store of K. Kovarik & Son in Snyder and hauled away in a large touring car approximately $1,000 worth of merchandise.
Entrance was gained by lifting a sidewalk grate in front of the store and forcing a cellar window. Valuable overcoats, silk shirts, ties, hose, suits, other wearing apparel and 80 yards of lining were hauled away.
Sheriff Condit of Fremont and deputies were called, but no clues or trace of the thieves were found. The police are baffled and express the opinion that the band is the same one which has terrorized the towns in this part of the state and past few months with their successful plans of daring.
Omitted, but probably November 25, 1920 - reprinted March 19, 1986The marriage of Miss Bertha Pickhinke and Edward E. Dostal took place at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic church in Howells. The ceremony was performed in the presence of immediate relatives of the contracting parties.
After 11 years of residence in this country, Bohumil Hylak decided to pay a visit to his native home in Czechoslovakia. He leaves next Friday for New York from where he will board a trans-atlantic liner.
He is an employee of J. R. Novak and he will choose between the two countries in regard to his future home. Mr. Hylak’s aged mother is still living in Bohemia and he deems it is his duty to pay her a visit after 11 years of separation.
He also made assurance to receive The Colfax County Press regularly to keep posted on happenings in this country.A fashionable wedding occurred at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic church in Howells on Wednesday morning, uniting forever the destines of Herman J. Hegemann and Miss Julia Vogel.
After the ceremony, a reception was held in honor of the newly wedded couple at which the Sindelar orchestra furnished selected music.Assistant State Engineer Black of Lincoln was in Schuyler with Co. Highway Commissioner Vrana & made the final inspection of the paving and grading work done south of Schuyler. The paving, with the exception of one block, passed the final inspection. This one block will be taken up and remade. The work was damaged by covering with dirt too soon after the cement had been poured.
The host of friends of Otto Hradec of Stanton county will receive with interest the news of the young man's marriage to Miss Mary Selacek of Pierce. The blissful event took place at the home of the bride’s parents in Pierce.
The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hradec, Sr., living northwest of Clarkson, and will take charge of the home place upon his arrival with the bride.
The old folks will move back to Clarkson next spring.The Schuyler banks were successful in disposing of the city electric light bonds, Denver, Colo., bond houses being the purchasers. The past few months have been trying ones in matters of arranging financial connections to complete municipal improvements which were voted before the money stringency became widespread.
For the past few months, the city officials worked on different lines without success. After the Schuyler banks came to the rescue, a market was found in Denver, and as the local banks need their money for home uses, the bonds were sold, and the whole situation is in a much relieved condition.Work on the new power house in Schuyler is nearing completion, and with a few more days of good weather, the brick work will be completed. Installation of machinery will require some time, and most likely the new plant will not be in operation before spring.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rabeler, Jr., of Leigh were "at home" to their friends Tuesday, and Wednesday of this week. A sumptuous dinner was served in three courses at six o’clock after which "500" claimed the attention for several hours.
The guests were seated at seven small tables and yellow and white chrysanthemums formed effective centerpieces at each.The residence property in the south part of Schuyler belonging to the estate of the late Mrs. Ella R. Donovan was sold at administrator’s sale to Mrs. Ida Folken for the consideration of $3,500.
Complications incident to his advanced age caused the death of John Henry Went at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Carl Lueke, in the Bissell community in Colfax county about 1 a.m. Sunday.
He was 89 years old. He was born in Oldenbusch, Germany, March 9, 1831 and came to America in 1883, locating on a farm in Colfax county where he was destined to spend the remainder of his life.
He leaves four sons and one daughter, Henry, William, Herman and Fred Went and Mrs. Carl Lueke.Schuyler Postmaster F. J. Kovar states that the requirements for city mail delivery are practically all met and that if nothing unforseen happens, Schuyler citizens will have city delivery of mail beginning the first of December.
A regulation of the post office department attendant to having city delivery is that all drop letters are required to have two-cent postage paid on them. This regulation will be put into effect at the Schuyler post office on December first, so it should have the careful attention of the patrons of the office.John Teply has purchased the home at Leigh which Mr. and Mrs. Steven Gloser recently vacated and he and his family will move into Leigh about the first of the year.
Julius Skoda left from Leigh for Omaha, having accepted a positon with the Great American Insurance Company. His work will be appointing agents and collecting for the company. He expects to make his headquarters at Norfolk.
November 25, 1920 - reprinted March 26, 1986Father Turek of Omaha, as priest, and Father Sekera, who arrived four months ago from Bohemia, as chaplin, are now in charge of work at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Schuyler. They arrived last week and held their first Mass Sunday morning.
Father Turek and Father Sekera are also in charge of the work at the Wilson precinct church.
St. Mary’s parish had been without a priest for the past several weeks, because of Father Vlcek’s departure for his native land, Bohemia, called there by the condition of his family, war conditions making his return desirable.Mr. and Mrs. Anton Semb, farmers residing three miles northwest of Schuyler, have been called upon to bear the sorrow attendant to the death of their infant son, Anton William Semb, who passed away at their farm home Tuesday evening. Little Anton came to their home Oct. 18, 1920, and had been ill from the time of his birth.
Dr. McClanahan, the child specialist of Omaha, was called Tuesday evening to see the little son, but death claimed him just as the specialist drove into the yard at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Semb.Chleboun Bros. Store had the following specials in their grocery ad for Thanksgiving: Sugar, 100# sack, $11.00; Rio Coffee, per pound, 25c; Blue 220 Overalls, pair, $2.00; Blue Stripe Overalls, pair, $1.75; Gingham, 25", per yard, 15c; Checkered Percale, per yard, 20c; Light or Dark Colored Outing Flannel, per yard, 25c; Apples, Jonathons and Winesaps in bushel boxes, $3.25.
J. F. Pimper, Clarkson, advertised Usco and White Oak Dress Shoes amd Bul Elk Work Shoes. $12.00 Tan Calf Shoes at $5.85; $9.50 Tan Calf Shoes at $5.65; $8.00 Gun Metal Shoes at $4.95; $6.50 Smoked Elk Shoes at $4.85; $6.50 Chocolate Elk Shoes at $4.85; $6.00 Outing Bal. Shoes at $4.35 and $4.50 Boys Shoes at $3.75.
Nebraska’s complete census figures for 1920 by counties were issued his week. The figures for Colfax and neighboring counties are: for 1920 - Colfax, 11,624; Dodge - 23,197; Cuming - 13,769; Stanton - 7,756; Platte - 19,464.
For 1910 - Colfax - 11,610; Dodge - 22,145; Cuming - 13,782; Stanton - 7,542; Platte - 19,606.
An increase of 103,288 in the total population of Nebraska is registeted during this decade. The present enumeration credits the state with 1,295,502 inhabitants, compared with 1,192,214 ten years ago.Mrs. Josie Hamernik of Clarkson has filed a petition with the clerk of the district court of Stanton county, asking for a partition sale of the farm left by her late husband, Anton Hamernik, and situated seven miles north of Clarkson. The sale will be held Dec. 9, 1920.
The prophecy we made mention of in the last issue of The Colfax County Press relative to Victor Wiedner’s sudden departure fully materialized. The young man was joined at Norfolk by his fiancee, Miss Mildred Sar, with whom he left for Sioux City, where they weme married November 24.
Mr. and Mrs. Wiedner arrived in Clarkson, Tuesday evening and for the time being will establish their living quarters in the rear rooms of the building occupied by the Clarkson Service Station.
Mr. Wiedner came here a short time ago from Humphrey and is affiliated with the Howells-Clarkson Service Stations of which he is one of the owners.No doubt, there will be a number of our farmers who will be called upon to renew their mortgages or make payment thereon on next March 1st. If the present money stringency is not relieved, many [may] find themselves in a serious predicament.
Those who are to make settlement or payments next spring should prepare themselves to meet the demands from now on.
We have word from the First Trust Company of Schuyler, that they are ready to receive applications for a limited amount of real estate loans at a very reasonable rate of interest. They will be glad to handle your loans, therefore do not delay, but send in your application today.We are informed that E. P. Folken, who has conducted the Wells store for several years, sold out to Jos. Smrz of Wilson precinct. Both the building and stock are included in the deal. The new owner will take over the business the first of the year.