The Colfax County Press publishes a weekly column entitled Peeking into the Past, which is comprised of articles taken from earlier Colfax County Press files, written by Helen C. Evans. A special thank you to the Colfax County Press for allowing me to reprint those articles and to Claudia Schuster for transcribing them! The following are selections from that column:
July 7, 1921 - reprinted May 25, 1988The Clay Hill Community Club will hold their 4th Annual Dance Saturday evening, July 16, at the Gus Woeppel farm ten miles northwest of Clarkson. The Jirovec orchestra has been engaged to furnish music. Admission $1.00. Everybody welcome. Mrs. Thos. Young, Chairman
Hogs…$8.30. Wheat..$1.05. Corn..$0.34. Oats..$0.22. Rye..$0.85. Butter.. $0.20. Eggs..$0.20.
Mrs. Otto Sobeslavsky, who had been operated at David City for appendicitis about two weeks ago, returned home last Saturday fully recovered from the illness. Mr. Sobeslavsky remained at her bedside during the time she was confined to the hospital.
Messrs. Clark & Hegner of Schuyler have opened a produce station in the old bank building north of Moore’s store and are now ready to purchase eggs, cream and poultry for cash. They appear to be ambitious young men and we believe they will make a success of their business.
The doleful tidings were received by Clarkson relatives the early part of the week, announcing the death of Robert Stasny who departed from here about a month ago for Europe in company of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda and other Clarkson people. The cause of the young man’s tragic death as stated in the brief message was due to an aeroplane accident, the cause of which is not known at the present time. The accident occurred in Bohemia where the excursion had just reached.
The automatic Binder Knotter adjusts itself to any size or diameter of twine, it makes a perfect knot. Whether flax or hemp, hard or soft twine, it never misses. Automatic Knotters are made to fit McCormick, John Deere, Deering, Minnesota and Massey Harris binders for small grain or corn. We carry these knotters in stock. Come and see them. Woff & Vitek, Clarkson, Nebr.
Transfer of real estate: Jiri Severa to Pavlina Zelenda, lots 6,7, and 8, Block 101, Schuyler, Neb., warranty deed.
Real Estate Transfer: Julia Severa and husband to Albert J. O’Brien, Lot 10 in Block 20, Clarkson, consideration $400, warranty deed.
While playing with a grindstone Tuesday evening, the oldest son of Frank Nykodem, of Stanton, got his index finger on his right hand caught in the rollers and ground it off at the second joint.
Condensed statement from bank report: Clarkson State Bank, Clarkson; Emil Folda, President. Loans and Bonds…$427,649.26; Building and Fixtures…$11,217.96; Capital Surplus, Profits…$77,486.03; Cash…$76,066.00; Guarantee Fund…$4,416.58: Deposits….$433.030.61
A record land deal has just been closed whereby Herman Woehler of Pilger sold his seven choice farms in Stanton, Wayne and Knox counties, consisting of 1,540 acres, valued at about $400,000 to J.W. Fleming, 3654 Woolworth Ave., Omaha. Mr. Fleming also gave in exchange his 1,520 acre farm joining Fairfax, S.D. valued at about $28,000, this being one of the most modern stock and grain farms in this part of the country.
Found on the streets of Clarkson during the celebrations a ladies’ watch and chain. Owner can have same after paying for this notice. Call at The Press office, Clarkson, Nebr.
Krofta Bros. will give a neighborhood dance at their picnic grounds north of Clarkson, on Sunday evening, July 17. In addition to good music, plenty of refreshments and good things to eat will be provided. Watch these columns next week.
The committee in charge of the 4th of July celebration expresses its gratitude to the people of Clarkson and the surrounding community who assisted in any way materially or otherwise in making the undertaking a success.
Joseph Vacin left this forenoon for Brainard where he will engage in automobile business for himself. Joe has had many years of experience in this line of occupation and not being afraid to apply his brawny hands to work there is every reason to believe that his venture will prove successful. We wish him good luck and an abundance of business in his new location.
Mrs. Frank Hejtmanek returned home the latter part of the past week from an extended visit with her daughter and other relatives at Chicago.
While watching the ball players practice on the local diamond the other day, the youngest son of Mrs. Tom Bos, residing southeast of Clarkson, suffered painful injury in the face as the result of being hit by the ball. One of the players accidently missed a “fly” and the ball squarely struck the on-looking lad on the nose, breaking the bridge. The boy was taken to Dr. Kavan’s office rooms where the injury was dressed.
Lower prices on Nash Cars, effective July 2. New labor-saving devices were added and production practice so perfected that every process of Nash manufacture is a model of efficiency and economy. 5-passenger touring car, $1545; 4-passenger sport model, $1695; 3-passenger coupe, $1735. All Nash models, both open and closed, having cord tires as standard equipment. Fajman Motor Co., Clarkson.
This morning Jos. F. Jirovec and family and Dr. and Mrs. T.C. Chudomelka left in their cars for a two weeks’ vacation which they intend to spend at different recreational places in Minnesota. From there the Jirovec family may go to Wisconsin to visit with former Colfax county friends. This detour, however, will depend on how well they enjoy their outing in Minnesota’s grandeur. They carry with them a complete camping outfit and expect to lead a great deal of outdoor life on the trip. They plan to be gone for about two weeks.
the Opening Picnic at Tabor, will be given on Sunday eve., July 10th. Dancing on the new large platform. Plenty of shade. In case of rainy weather, the dance will be held in the hall. Good time in store for all. Everybody cordially invited.
We have just received for sale a fine six-room dwelling, at Howells, only a short distance from the main street and in and ideal location. For further information write or see us. Odvarka Bros., Clarkson.
The Big “7” Threshing Co., composed of farmers north of Clarkson, has decided to sell their threshing outfit and will dispose of the same at public sale. The sale will be held Saturday afternoon, July 9, at the Frank Kacin farm, five miles northeast of Clarkson.
July 7, 1921 - reprinted June 1, 1988Jos. K. Vlach and family were at Rosalie last Thursday, spending the day with their son, Henry, and family.
The Press publishers are in receipt of a dainty announcement from Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Zastera of Sacramento, Cal., announcing the arrival of their first born baby, a bouncing boy who tipped the scales at eight pounds. The little fellow arrived June 27th.
Clarkson Markets were: hogs $8.30, wheat $1.05, corn $0.34, oats $0.22, rye $0.85, butter $0.20 and eggs $0.20.
The doleful tidings were received by Clarkson relatives, announcing the death of Robert Stastny, who departed for Europe about a month ago in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda and other Clarkson people.
The cause of the young man’s death as stated in a brief message was due to an aeroplane accident, the cause of which is not known at the present time. It is a sad occurrence and the case is much more painful to the mother of the killed boy, Mrs. Dr. Stastny, who has been doing relief work in Czechoslovakia with the American Red Cross commission and upon whose advice the young man endured the journey.
It was a desire of the mother for a long time to have her son visit with her and see the picturesque country of his ancestors. Mrs. Stastny is a sister of Mrs. Emil Folda of this city at whose home the young man visited frequently.
Just before going to press, we were informed that the young man in the party of two other parties were burned to death. The machine they had been riding in caught fire while encircling Prague, the Capitol city of Czechoslovakia and crumbled to the ground from a height of several hundred feet.
The other two parties losing their lives was the pilot and a young lady from Detroit, who was also a member of the Bohemian expedition visiting Europe. It was reported in the Omaha World-Herald that the young Stastny, 21, was an intimate friend and companion of his uncle, Victor Sadilek of Wilber, who was the same age. Several months ago when the uncle was critically ill at Lord Lister hospital, Robert gave a pint of his blood in transfusion and saved his uncle’s life.A very large crowd celebrated the 4th of July in Clarkson. The festivities took place in the middle of main street, where the band took its place on the platform, and all the day’s program was conducted from this spot.
Business had floats in the parade and the first prize went to the American Legion whose float represented a large battle ship. Second prize went to the Farmers Union Co-operative Supply Co. and Wolf & Vitek, took third place honors. For the best comical float Frankie Miller and Lawrence Tomes, won first place. John Jurik won second place as a “harvester”. In the boys’ foot race, winners were John Novotny, Longin Kucera and Anton Kral. Men’s foot race winners were Ben Jonas and John Pospichal. The men’s centipede race was won by Jay Arnold, Jos. Makovsky, Albert O’Brien, Oscar Hahn, Richard Karel, Frank Kratochvil, Jos. Jonas and Gus Fajman.
Girls’ foot race winners: Laura Tomes and Evelyn Minarik. Ladies bean race: Della Francl, Martha Markytan. Boys’ peach contest; Roy Vanderbeek, Lumir Kral and James Drahota. Boys’ water contest: Jos. D. Novotny, Carl Vanderbeek, William Faiman. Automobile endurance race; Emil E. Wolf, Emil Hamernik, Albin Vraspir. In the base ball game, Central Valley took the honors away from the Clarkson club, the score being 8 to 7.The Clay Hill Community Club will hold their 4th annual dance at the Gus Woeppel farm 10 miles northwest of Clarkson on July 16. The Jirovec orchestra has been engaged to furnish the music.
Messr. Clark & Hegner of Schuyler have opened a produce station in the old bank building north of Moore’s Store and are now ready to purchase eggs, cream and poultry for cash.
During the progress of the 4th of July dance, Joseph Hamernik son of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Hamernik, residing north of Clarkson, Miss Martha Hledik , daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hledik of the Leigh neighborhood, went out for an automobile ride which resulted in an accident for them. They reached the top of the hill east of the Zrust farm, south of town, and as there is quite a decline the young man is supposed to have applied the brakes with resistance which caused the car to be swung to one side of the road. Misfortunately the automobile tipped over in such a manner that both occupants were severely cut up and bruised about their bodies. The young lady was especially cut up about the face and neck caused by broken glass from the windshield. Joe received a bad laceration on his hand and he too lost a considerable amount of blood before they were hurried to the office rooms of Dr. Kavan, who gave them the necessary medical attention. The car was only slightly damaged.
Stanley Buresh of Clarkson, who just recently entered the wrestling profession as a scholar of the peerless Jos. Stecher, won two straight matches here this week. Good crowds witnessed him when he threw Frank Mack of Revenna and also the next day, took down Chas. Vais, former Colfax county champion, who went down in 20 minutes.
July 7, 1921 - reprinted June 8, 1988The circle of friends of the Edward Taborsky family, former residents of Howells, now residing at Geneva, will be surprised to learn of their separation. Last week divorce has been granted to Mrs. Taborsky in the district court in Saline county, from her husband, on grounds of cruelty.
From the daily press reports we see that the gold rush in the Peace River district in Canada has “petered out.” The provincial inspector made a thorough examination of the gold district and very little gold was found. The wild rush and enthusiasm has ceased and the fortune hunters are returning south with their dreams faded away. This is the district where Frank C. Sindelar, formerly of Howells, is holding a claim and which a short time ago was considered highly valuable on account of the gold discovery.
On the other hand this section of Canada is proving to be one of the greatest oil regions in the world, therefore, if our old friend losses out in the gold hunt, he will still have a chance to make up for it in gold.Jos. E. Bosh of Schuyler and Jos. G Noh of Clarkson have taken up volunteer training work at the Citizens’ training camp at Fort Snelling.
Mrs. Otto Sobeslavsky returned to her home from the hospital in David City, where two weeks ago she underwent an operation for appendicitis. Mr. Sobeslavsky remained at her bedside during the time she was confined to the hospital.
Prazak Motor Co. is now agent for the Woods Bros. Individual Thresher. The thresher is warranted against breakage for a period of five years. Additional warranty that the cylinder will not wrap in any kind of grain, wet or dry, and the cylinder and concave teeth are warranted against breakage for the life of the tooth.
Col. F.M. Woods has reported to The Colfax County Press that at the present he does not have any land to sell. He mentioned that any land that is kept up in fertility, will bring good money. Good land is “cheap” no matter how much you pay for it. This is what he used to tell his audience at sales:
That a cow and a sow, a mare and a hen,
Provide financial salvation for men,
And if in addition you have a good wife,
There’s nothing to hinder your enjoying life,
Buy some land if only a town lot. – ForesightIn the county court last week at the hearing of the estate of John F. Hopwood, the claim of John Muehlich amounting to $1,440, which Mr. Muehlich claimed due him for board and care, County Judge Fiala after hearing the testimony in the case scaled the claim down to $132. The judge held that the services rendered by Hopwood prior to his last illness was sufficient value to offset the expanse of board. That during the period of his illness six weeks, Mr. Muehlich was entitled to $22 per week for café and board. Mr Muehlich gave notice of appeal to the district court.
A state inheritance tax of $72.35 was assessed against the estate of Vaclav Brichacek in the county court. The estate was appraised at $53,186.65 with an indebtedness of $4,833.91, the estate valuation being less than $50,000 relatives , the heirs from the payment of federal tax. After all deductions had been made, the net amount for state tax was reduced to $72.35, the rate being one percent.
Professional ads were those of Dr. J.A. Tamisiea of Omaha and Dr. A. J. Herbenstreit, physician and surgeon of Howellls.
In the condensed reports of the five Folda banks in Colfax county, deposits in each bank were as follows: Banking House of F. Folda at Schuyler - $811,959.19. Colfax County Bank at Howells - $749,120.78. Clarkson State Bank at Clarkson - $433,030.61 Farmers and Merchants Bank at Linwood - $252,119.08 and Bank of Rogers at Rogers - $105,848.16. Total deposits - $2,352,077.82 and total loans, discounts and bonds - $2,282,433.69.
Officers at the Banking House of F. Folda were E.F. Folda, president; M.F. Folda, vice president; Jaroslav Folda, cashier; Bertha Folda and K.J. Folda, assistant cashiers. Emil Folda was president of the Colfax County Bank at Howells. E.F. Folda was vice president; J.M. Folda also was vice president and the cashier was F.C. Hrabak. Emil Folda was president of the Clarkson State Bank in Clarkson. Vice presidents were Fred Jelinek, J. M. Mundil and Login Folda. Emil Peter was cashier and assistant cashiers were Jos. Mundil and Frank J. Vidlak.
July 7, 1921 - reprinted June 22, 1988Specials in the dry goods department of Chleboun Bros. store in Clarkson were: $0.40 Flowered dress goods, $0.27; Men’s blue work shirts $0.75: Boy’s blue shirts $0.58; Men’s heavy overalls $1.35; Boy’s heavy overalls, sizes 3-8, $0.85 and sizes 9-12 $0.95. All men’s felt hats were offered at 20% off during the week.
Phil Roether, auctioneer, has announced that The Big “7” Threshing Co. has decided to sell the following at auction at the old Kacin farm, 5 miles northeast of Clarkson, on Saturday, July 9; One complete threshing outfit, consisting of a Case 20 h.p. steam engine; Avery separator 32x54; water wagon; 7 gallons of barn paint, and a large-shed to cover the entire outfit. The outfit was overhauled last season and is in good condition.
Terms are cash or bankable notes with 3 month’ time bearing 8% interest.The personal tax schedules for Colfax county have been completed and filed with the county assessor, Harry McNAlly, who has made his summary for the state department.
The summary which is compiled in abstract form shows that the number of horses in the county to be 7,998, valued at $607,830, an average of $77.94 per head; 21,097 cattle values at $824,770, an average of $39.09 per head; sheep and goats valued at $4,030, an average of $5 per head; 565 mules valued at $53,515, an average of $94.55 per head; 23,515 head of hogs, valued at $300,885, an average of $12.79 per head.
The total value of personal property in Colfax county for the year of 1921 was $6,036,375. The value for the year 1920 was $7,274,580, making the value for the present year $1,238,205 less than last year. This is not due to the fact that there is less property in the county this year than last year; but the fact that the property was listed at a much lower figure.
A few specific instances will readily show the cause of the decrease. Wheat was listed in 1920 at $2.00 per bushel and in 1921 at $1.00 per bushel; corn was reduced from $1.00 to $0.30 per bushel; oats from $0.60 to $0.20 per bushel and so on through the schedules.
The summary showed that there were 2,150 automobiles in the county, valued at $655, 945.Frank Johns had an ad in the Press advertising for plaster and brick work. He was located in Howells and his phone number was 114.
The black cloud that spread its mantel over the affairs of the Nye Schneider Fowler Co. some weeks ago, can’t be cleared at the present time according to reports made by the daily bankers after negotiating for some time. The fact of the matter appears to be that the firm is on the verge of a serious crisis.
News from the Omaha Bee stated that the company could go bankrupt as the bankers have turned down their request for more financial aid.Krofta Bros. will give a neighborhood dance at their picnic grounds north of Clarkson on Sunday evening, July 17.
Adolf Dudek has commenced the excavation of the basement for his new residence which we understand will be a beautiful colonial structure. Work on the Karel residence is making rapid headway and the new home that Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Vlach are having erected is now ready for plastering.
Fajman Motor Co. had these Nash automobile specials in a half page ad in the Colfax County Press: 5-passenger touring car $1545, 2-passenger $1525, 4-passenger sports model $1695, 4-passenger coupe $2395, 7-passenger touring car $1695, 4-passenger coupe $2395, 7-passenger sedan $2695, 5-passenger touring car $1195, 2-passenger roadster $1175, 3-passenger coupe $1795, 5-passenger sedan $1935. These prices are f.0.f. Kenosha and Milwaukee.
All Nash models, both open and closed, have cord tires as standard equipment.
July 7, 1921 - reprinted June 29, 1988R. V. Prokop and his bride, who arrived from their visit in the southern states, spent the fourth of July celebration in Clarkson.
Among those from a distance, who attended the Fourth of July festivities included the Jos. S. Severa family of Beemer; E. E. Wolf and family of Morse Bluff; Thos. J. Miller and family of Humphrey; Mr. and Mrs. Louis Pelecky and Mrs. Rudolf Talacko of Omaha; Mrs. Charles Kamensky and son of Petersburg and Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Bukacek of Valparaiso.
James Mayer, who has been employed by Ed. Daniels of Stanton county for the past two seasons, left his farm job and this week moved his family to town. Unable to provide other living quarters the family is occupying the rooms in the Kunc building on Main street, north of the Rychtig garage.
While watching the ball players practice on the local diamond, the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Bos, residing southeast of Clarkson, suffered a painful injury to his face as the result of being hit by the ball. One of the players missed a "fly" and the ball squarely struck the onlooking lad on the nose, breaking the bridge. The boy was taken to Dr. Kavan’s office where the wound was dressed.
Jess L. Woods was county clerk of Colfax county. Commissioners were John Moural, Joseph Krejci, A. C. Fajman. Harry McNally was county asseSsor.
Mr. and Mrs. John F. Pimper moved into their fine new home which has just been completed and turned over to them by the contractors. It is a commodious residence and one of the prettiest in town, giving the family all the advantages of a modern home. The building is also an assest to the residential district of our little city.
Cenek Humlicek of Chicago and his family are visiting at the home of the gentleman’s brother, Frank. It has been 15 years ago that the family visited here and they now see a wonderful progress in our city.
The Colfax County Press and The Clarkson Herald, consolidated, was published by the Odvarka Bros., Anton and Otto. Subscription was $2.00 per year.
July 7, 1921 – reprinted July 6, 1988Officers at the Farmers State Bank in Clarkson were J.D. Wolf, president; E.E. Dudek, assistant cashier; Adolf Dudek, cashier; Jos. A. Indra, assistant cashier.
L.J. Evert and Egon A. Stangel of Howells motored to Creston, where they enjoyed the pleasures of that town’s popular swimming pool.
The 4th of July was quietly observed by the citizens of Howells. From early in the morning until late in the night the sound of fire crackers had been heard. Fitting morning services were held at the churches after which the Howells band made a tour over the village, playing patriotic airs in different parts of the town. The afternoon was spent by many at home while others motored away to participate in celebrating elsewhere.
Frank V. Fiala of Greeley, Colo., who was in Howells attending the funeral of his sister, Mrs. Frank J. Kudera, departed for Rochester, Minn., where he will consult the famous Mayo Bros. in regard to his health. He is hoping the treatments’ there will be beneficial to his health and his many friends in Greeley are anxiously awaiting word that he is getting well towards recovery.
Lumir and William Novak, students at the State University in Lincoln, spent a few days with home folks at Howells.
We are informed that one of the finest bunches of hogs ever to be brought to market was the one sold by Frank J. Petricek, who is one of the prominent farmers of Maple Creek precinct.
There were 57 head in the bunch and not one was eight months, their average weight being 340 per head. They were of the Duroc Jersey type and as pretty as a picture.Miss Vlasta Kunhart, one of the nurses at St. Joseph hospital in Omaha, arrived in Howells to spend a two week vacation with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Kunhart.
B.R. Zastera and his bride returned from their honeymoon and will make their home in the Bazata rental property in Howells, the building being vacated a short time ago by Dr. Tamislea. Friday evening the newlyweds were honored at a public dance at the Howells firemen’s picnic grounds.
William Kovar was the agent for the Brunswick phonograph in the Howells and Clarkson areas.
Louis J. Evert of Howells Motor Co. reports the sale of a new Dodge touring car to John J. Sindelar, Jr.; a used Buick six to Jos. Wiese and a second-hand Ford to Albert Nagengast.
The Howells fire boys were called to quench a blaze that had started in the basement of the Cihacek and Iwansky restaurant. Mr. Cihacek had been in the basement, using a match for a light, which later he threw to the floor. In less than a second a blaze broke out as the match ignited escaping gas from their lighting system and the whole basement appeared one mass of flames. With quick action of the firemen with their chemical, the flames were soon subdued before much damage resulted.
Frank Vacha, Sr., sold his residence property of which he acquired ownership in Howells, last year, to Frank M. Beran of Maple Creek precinct. The property is located across the road west of the Howells City Park and the consideration was $7,000.00. The transaction was handled by the hustling real estate dealer, James A. Drahota.
Mr. and Mrs. Beran intend to turn over their farm management to their son, Jaroslav. They are hard working people and will enjoy their retirement in their new surroundings.George Lodes, the Howells section foreman, received word from the headquarters of the railroad company that they will make a cut in the wages of section labor of 70 cents per day is quite a reduction, but owning to the dissatisfaction of high freight and passenger rates, the management of the railroads realizes that some thing must be done to reduce them.
If they do not change their minds, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. E. Sindelar of Howells will leave today for a few weeks’ recreation in Colorado. They will make the trip via Buick route and intend to visit all the principal places in that state.
Mr. and Mrs. Louis Kovar of Boyer, Iowa visited with relatives in Howells this week.
The Big Bowery dance will be held at Tabor July 10. The Robertson band has been engaged to furnish the music. The public is invited to attend.
July 14, 1921 - reprinted July 13, 1988The following court procedure is relative to an estate left by a man whose name is well known to many of The Press readers and especially to those people who own parcels of the old O’Connor ranch, northwest of Leigh. As usual it is another case where the heirs are fighting over a large fortune very much the same as the trial recently instituted in the United States court by the heirs of M.E. Fuller, wealthy rancher and banker of Colfax county.
While scanning the columns of the Omaha World-Herald, we found that Mrs. Mary Lamb, recently of Chicago, but now of Denver, Colo., one of the heirs that shared in O’Connor land in Madison county, will be sued within the near future for $900,000 by her son, Franklin Lamb of Chicago. The estate money, Lamb says, is due from the estate of his grand-uncle, John O’Connor, former wealthy stockman and ranchman of Omaha. Most of the land involved in the suit was purchased by people from near Howells, Clarkson and Leigh.
According to the information given out in Chicago, when Franklin was six years old, he was brought to Omaha and lived with his grand-uncle, who educated him and promised to make him one of his heirs. When Mr. O’Connor died it was stated that he left one-fourth of his estate to Franklin and the balance was to be divided by Mrs. Lamb’s two aunts, Mary Alice and Margaret O’Connor, who live in Los Angeles and her mother. “When the estate was probated Mrs. Lamb went to Omaha and her mother and her aunts consented to give her Franklin’s portion and at the same time she waived the rights of her son, who was a minor,” William Spencer Welch, attorney for young Lamb, is quoted as saying.
Lamb is said to contend that his mother is not entitled to any portion of the fortune. Franklin’s wife was Marie Nelsonm, a member of a wealthy Denver family and a schoolday sweetheart of Franklin. In a war romance she is said to have married Raymond J. Davidson of Denver, and was divorced from him in December of last year. A few months afterward she married Franklin at Crown Point, Ind. When the mother learned the daughter-in-law had technically committed bigamy she had her arrested, it is reported. The daughter-in-law upon finding she had violated the law sued for the annulment of the marriage in Chicago.Prazak Motor Co., Howells and Clarkson had a quarter page ad in The Colfax County Press and these were prices they advertised: Ford touring car $415.00; Ford runabout $370.00; Ford coupe $695.00; Ford sedan $760.00; Ford chassis $345.00; Ford truck-chassis $495.00; Ford tractor $625.00.
Business and professional ads were those of Dr. A.J. Knight, physician and surgeon. Dr. W. J. Kavan, successor of Dr. F.J. Kalal, physician and surgeon. W. B Sadilek attorney at law, Schuyler. Dr. H.D. Myers, physician and surgeon, Howells. Dr. J.F. Palensky, dentist, Howells. Dr. Mason, chiropractor, Howells. W. L. Sucha M.D., physician and surgeon., Omaha. Dr. L.A. Proskovec, dentist, Schuyler. Frank Benes, jeweler, watchmaker. Clarkson Milling and Grain Co., Pylik Bros. Meat Market at Howells and Janata’s Amusement Place, pool and billiards at Howells.
Miss Elby Hajek, a student at the state normal at Wayne enjoyed a brief vacation with home folks.
Miss Wilma Basta of Schuyler visited Clarkson relatives and friends last week.
Frank Vomocil and wife of Schuyler spent the Fourth of July and a few days visiting at the Anton Prazak home.
Mr. and Mrs. Julius Zastera of Lesterville, S.D., arrived at the home of relatives here. Mr. Zastera returned to his home and his wife remained her for a longer visit.
For Sale: Radiator, hood, lamps, body, top, running shields, four fenders, windshield, curtains and other Ford body parts, all in No. 1 condition. Will fit all Ford models from 1900 to 1916. Call or write: Frank Chleboun, Clarkson.
Mrs. Thomas Delmonico and two children departed for their home in Omaha after spending two weeks with Clarkson relatives. Mrs. Delmonico is the former Miss Anna Suchy of this city.
In this district court news, Frank J. Richtig was granted a divorce from Anna Richtig. Defendant receives alimony in the sum of $1750.00 and $25.00 per month for the support of the six-year-old son given into the custody of the mother until further orders of the court.
July 14, 1921 – reprinted July 20, 1988Arrangements are under way for a grand church celebration to be held by the Presbyterian congregation of Maple Creek precinct on Sunday afternoon, July 17.
At this occasion the corner stone of the new edifice they are building in that parish, will be laid. Devotions and prayer will be offered by Rev. B.A. Filipi of Clarkson. The location of the new parish is on the John Blazek farm in Maple Creek precinct, 11 miles southeast of Howells. Rev Havlik will assist the choir of the Zion church will render several vocal selections.In yesterday’s mail we observed a pretty chrono-card sent us by Joseph Mlnarik and his son, Ernest, informing us of their safe arrival in the land of Mr. Mlnarik’s birth, Czechoslovakia. Mr. Mlnarik and his son joined the American expedition directed by the Bohemian National Alliance of America, the purpose of which was to visit the western battlefield and touring Central Europe.
They arrived at the home of Mr. Mlnarik’s brother on June 17.Dr. Knight reports the arrival of a new visitor at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. M. Bukacek of this city, the guest being a fine 9-pound boy.
Dr. Kavan reports the birth of baby boys at the homes of Jerry Hruska of Midland precinct and John F. Mastny, 4 ½ miles southeast of Clarkson.
Last week Thursday, Dr. Knight made a trip to the Emil J. Novotny home near Heun, and before his departure gifted the parents with their firs-born boy.
Clarkson Markets: Wheat $1.10, corn $0.36, rye $0.85, oats $0.25, hogs $8.80, butter $0.22, eggs $0.23, hens $0.18, springs $0.23
Lambert Radhaus of near Heun, has enrolled in the Grand Island Business College, and we are told that Stephen Cech, who had been there before, returned to finish his course.
We have received word that twin boys were born to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Novotny, formerly of Clarkson, but of late years making their home in the vicinity of Brooks, Montana.
Albert Bobisud of Rogers, a well-known resident of Colfax county and at one time a farmer of near Howells, suffered severe injury in a railroad accident at Rogers. He was using a Ford roadster with an attached trailer loaded with several cans of cream, which he was delivering to the depot for shipment. As he neared the tracks he was unaware of the switching just going on and failing to hear the whistle of the train, he made an attempt to cross when he suddenly collided with one of the moving cars.
Besides Mr. Bobisud, the car was occupied by his grandson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Glodowski, both of whom were hurled from their seats to a distance of several yards.
Mr. Bobisud was badly hurt on the head and otherwise bruised while the boy escaped with only a few minor scratches. The auto was reduced to a heap of worthless junk and the box car that as supposed to strike the vehicle was derailed and rammed into a nearby building, tearing open one of its walls. Mr. Bobisud was at once hurried to the David City hospital where he was promptly attended to.R.V. Prokop and wife left here for Wilber after spending a few days at the J.D. Wolf home. They will leave for the Pacific coast for a two month’s trip. The entire trip will be made in Prof’s faithful Ford.
A card from the Jos. F. Jirovec family, who are vacationing in Minnesota, tells us that they are enjoying fishing, bathing and at other outdoor sports.
Rev. and Mrs. B.A. Filipi, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Petr, Edward Makousky and John L. Zrust went to St. Edward to view the new church recently completed in that city. The delegation are members of the building committee who is working out the plans for the new Zion Presbyterian church to built by the local Presbyterian congregation in the near future.
John Schaeffer and Oscar and Walter Hahn returned from Wessington, S.D., where they have been for several days in the interest of viewing land. The Hahn boys are owners of a fine half-section farm in that part of the country and went down to show Mr. Schaffer their holdings. We understand that they have a bumper crop of wheat and prospects for a banner yield of corn never have been brighter.
On Friday, July 22, the cornerstone laying for the new courthouse in Schuyler will be held.
July 14, 1921 - reprinted July 27, 1988A posse of farmers is scouring the farm land and woods three miles east of Schuyler along the Platte in search of a “wild man” who has been terrorizing farm wives and pillaging homes for the past two weeks. Two weeks ago a well dressed man in palm beach trousers and striped shirt walked into the Charles Haidley home 3 miles east and asked Mrs. Haidley to take him for a ride, promising her money. She fled. Three days later as she was hanging up clothes she turned and saw him standing near by, hat in hand calmly watching. The hired girl came to the door and screamed. The man fled.
A posse tracked him two miles through the fields.
Friday afternoon Mr. French and Mrs. Payzant, neighbors who had been visiting the Haidley home went to the garden.
As they approached a clump of bushes a man suddenly arose and hurled a rock at them. They fled into the house as he hurled rocks at them.
He followed them to the house, fired a revolver through the window and attempted to break in.
That night the posse had tracked him to his camp where fresh bread, potted ham and a few freshly sucked eggs were found.Lots of folks spend more or less valuable time relating faults and weaknesses of the editor of the home town newspaper, rarely finding either time or occasion to speak a good word for him.
The new lens law will go into effect July 23. This law was passed by the 1921 session of the legislature. “A car driven 30 miles per hour, the average speed rate in the open country, will cover 200 feet in 4 ½ seconds. The driving light, therefore to protect the driver, must be strong enough to sufficiently illuminate objects at least 200 feet ahead.
Master Wilman Vlach, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm E. Vlach of Dodge met with what could have been a serious accident, when a small friend threw a lighted fire cracker in his face. No serious injuries resulted.
The arm of the law reached to Dodge last Friday evening and made a jab in defense of the Volstead act. Deputies Wintersteen and Johnson were tipped off that R. H. Hook, proprietor of the Ford garage at Dodge, was handling the joy liquid as a sideline.
When the officers arrived at the place, Hook denied all knowledge of the charges and their foundation. The booze hounds began a systemic search of the shop, but before they had fairly started Hook’s son told the sleuths to cease their labors – he would show them the corn. Under a workbench in the rear of the shop, the officers found about a gallon of corn juice, divided in three containers.
Hook insisted that the beverage did not belong to him but had been left in the garage by a man from Wisner. The officers claim that the Wisner man operates the still which manufactures the booze and Hook is the agent who disposes of the booze to the thirsty. Hook was ordered to court in Fremont and the deputies confiscated the liquor.County assessor Harry Mc Nally is closing up his work in making up the statistical abstract of the assessor’s work in Colfax county, and finds that farm lands in Colfax county will make an average of $117.70 per acre. There are 256,416 acres included in the report of the various precinct assessors.
Will Laudon with his thresher crew of Schuyler, began threshing June 28 and completed three jobs during the remainder of the week. The George Novotny production averaged a little less than 25 bushels per acre; William Sumptions’ crop on the Webber land west of Schuyler, 28 bushels; and the A.F. Babcock land returned 22 bushels per acre. The three jobs yielded 6,990 bushels.
The grain is of fine quality, although very dry, no rain having fallen after it was placed in shock and considerable of the grain was broken while passing thorough the process of threshing.Frank Dudek and F.J. Vogltance of Schuyler, left on a motor trip to Colorado. While in Julesburg, they had the pleasure of visiting Phil Chronister and were given a motor trip out to the Chronister farm, where they saw 180 acres of splendid wheat ready for harvest. They estimate that the wheat will average about 30 bushels to the acre.
July 14, 1921 – reprinted August 3, 1988Attorney George W. Wertz returned from Madison, Wisconsin, where he appeared as leading counsel for Mrs. M.E. Fuller, in her contest with other heirs of the late M. E. Fuller______ the disposition of $50,000_______bank stock which Mr. Fuller________to her before his death. The case has been pending for some time pa_______the facts and details are fully set___in a report of the court proceedings given by the Madison Capital Times.
Relatives of the late M.E. Fuller, formerly of Madison and more recently of Schuyler, Nebraska, represented by two forces of equity lawyers, began a legal battle in the U.S. District court in Madison, Wis., Tuesday morning before Judge Claude Z. Luse over the money left by Mr. Fuller.
The suit was brought into court through a demand by Mrs. Annie Heritage-Fuller, third wife of Mr. Fuller, that the First National Bank of Madison record on its books the transfer of 130 shares of bank stock turned over to her by Mr. Fuller before his death.
A claim made upon the bank stock by Jessica Haskell-Fuller, widow of E.M. Fuller, 1900 Sherman Avenue, and Mrs. Shirley Fuller-Hobbins, 102 E. Gorham Street, brought these two heirs of the Fuller estate into the case as defendants and prevented the bank from making the record until a court ruling is handed down. The plaintiff, represented by George W. Wertz, attorney of Schuyler, Nebr., and Sanborn & Blake of this city, contend that a valid transfer of the stocks was made without undue influence on the part of Annie Fuller, and presented a deposition made by George J. Busch, vice president of the First National Bank of Schuyler, showing that the transfer was made by M.E. Fuller in his presence.
Annie Heritage, formerly of Madison, was employed as a nurse for Mr. Fuller for about 7 years. On Sept. 14, 1916, when Mr. Fuller was 95 years old, he married Miss Heritage on April 5, of the following year, the stocks were transferred to her. The defendants offered in evidence that Mr. Fuller was not mentally competent to know what he was doing when he married her or in transferring his bank stocks.
Defendants’ attorneys pointed out that relatives even supplied him with “stage” money because he lavishly bestowed money gifts upon his friends, and unknowingly depleting his fortune.
Following the marriage, attorneys stated, relatives made an effort to have the marriage annulled. The defendants ask that the court compel Mrs. Annie Fuller to turn over the stocks and make full accounting for 168 acres of Nebraska land, valued at $228 an acre, which she is alleged to have sold, and for the income from Mr. Fuller’s 3,000-acre farm in that state over which she had full control for a time. The Times of Saturday, July 2, further says:
A settlement by which she virtually retains all of the property of M.E. Fuller, wealthy Nebraska ranchman formerly of Madison, Wis., deceased, was made yesterday by Annie Heritage-Fuller, nurse-wife of the old man, in the U.S. District court here, bringing to a close the fight made by two Madison heirs for possession of bank stocks and personal property left by Mr. Fuller, valued at approximately $50,000.
The terms of the settlement were:
1. Mrs. Annie Fuller agreed to pay to Mrs. Jessica Fuller and Mrs. L.M. Hobbins $6,600 in full settlement.
2. Mrs. Annie Fuller is to retain all of the bank stock and personal property.
A request in writing made by the old man asked the girl not to record any of the transfers until after his death because he believed his son, Edward, of Madison, Wis., now deceased, would interfere if he knew it. After the old man’s death, Mrs. Fuller demanded that the bank in Madison, record the transfers. The bank refused when the two Madison heirs, who intimated that the stocks and personal property had been obtained by influencing the old man.
The case was brought into federal court because the parties were from different states. The girl demanded that the bank record the transfers. The Madison heirs cross-petition making a claim to the property. The settlement is a victory for the girl.Fisk tires, Ret-Top brand, extra ply, heavy tread. 30 x 3 ½ only $22.00.
R.R. Casey of Fremont, guest at a Schuyler hotel, is mourning the loss of $100 in cash and a $20 gold piece taken from his watch chain by a sneak thief at the place Friday. Morning. The man believed to have committed the robbery is known as Richardson, about 21 years of age and is conspicuous by a crowning crop of red hair. He is considered a “floater” in the Schuyler community. Fremont police were told to be on the look out for him, but most likely he caught a ride with tourists and will be long gone by now.
July 14, 1921 – reprinted August 10, 1988Jos. R. Hrouda and daughter of near Dodge passed through Clarkson yesterday on their way home after paying a visit to relatives in Stanton county.
The Farmers Shipping association of Clarkson handled the following stock shipments for farmers in this community: James Klimes, c____ of cattle; Jos. P. Lopour, Frank Faltys and John J. Dudycha, each consigning a load of hogs. Mr. Dudycha received the top market price of the day, netting $9.50 per cwt.
John Markytan and family visited in Creighton to which place they accompanied Mrs. Frank Jirous and her children, who had been visitors at the Markytan home for several days. Mr. Jirous is engaged in the mill business in Creighton.
Miss Frances Janecek was a passenger to Dodge, where she makes regular trips, taking violin lessons.
Clarence Moore made a motor trip to Schuyler last Saturday. He was accompanied by Joseph S. Lodl and his daughter, Olga, who attended to the closing of the estate of Agnes Lodl, deceased.
Additional donations were made to the Clarkson Public Library. These were $5.00 from Fajman Motor Co.; $5.00 J.M. Mundil and $2.00 Dr. W. J. Kavan. This brings the total thus far to $214.60
Miss Anna and Winifred Caur of Ft. Crook, who have been visiting at the Jos. Dvoracek home, northwest of Clarkson, returned to their home Monday.
The following attended the Brown Saxaphone sextette concert at Schuyler: J.L. Stransky, Jos. Mundil, Jos. Makousky, Lawrence Folda, Jos. Indra, F.J. Wacha, Clyde Karel, Adolph Karel, Richard Karel, Frank Ferenc, Adolph Vitek, Edward Vitek, F.J. Miller, Boh. Jurik, Jos. Smrkovsky, Jerome Brabec and Miss Lillian Pokorny. The musical group is on tour through the country and their performance was greatly appreciated by all those in attendance.
Amos Lacina was in the auto and truck overhauling business in Clarkson.
Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Moore were called to Rogers on account of the serious accident that befell their brother-in-law, Albert Bobisud. When they arrived at Rogers, he was already at the David City hospital.
Blahoslav Novotny, who had been home for several days, made a motor trip to Omaha. He was accompanied by his sister, Olga, and Miss Alice Schultz. On their return trip, they will be joined by Miss Libby Novotny, who is to return from Lincoln, where she had been attending summer school
Vinc Smejkal, Adolph Bukacek and E.J. Pokorny were in the county seat, where Mr. Smejkal went to file suit against his farm tenant, August Vsetecka, who, we are told, refuses to pay the rent as per contract made during the booming period.
William Karel and Albert O’Brien and wives were at Omaha the first of the week, where the women folks had their tonsils removed.
Lada and Louis Hanel, their wives, and Mrs Bohumil Beran and children motored last Sunday to Lynch and Bristow, where they visited relatives until Tuesday.
The F.J. Miller and Clyde Karel families and Miss Alma Karel motored over to Enola on Sunday where they attended a reception at the Thos. Pojar home honoring Joseph Pojar and his bride.
Mrs. Frank Hubenka visited in Dodge a few hours yesterday.
Farmers Attention: If at any time you are in need of a new well, cave, cistern, cesspool, trenches for waterworks or anything else in this line of work, give me a chance to do the work for you. My work is guaranteed and my charges are reasonable. Leave word at theJos. Slama emporium. Frank Uhlir, Clarkson.
Adolph Mrsny, local manager of the Crowell yards, reports the sale of all the lumber for Adolf Dudek’s new residence.
Sunshine Club members are having a Library Carnival to raise funds for the local library. The event will take place in the Ryan building.
July 14, 1921 – reprinted August 17, 1988Mr. and Mrs. Gus Hahn, son, Harry, and Roy Hahn of Leigh, left for Nevis, Minn., where they will spend the summer at their cottage on the lake.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Held of Leigh have the sympathy of their friends in the loss of their still born child.
We have been informed that “Fat” Zavadil of Howells, is to finish the season with the Leigh team.
William Albert of Leigh has conceived an idea whereby he will save his garden produce from the ravages of his neighbor’s chickens. He has secured a young wolf and has tied him up in his yard. The animal is an honest-to-goodness wolf with lots of appetite for chickens. Mr. Albert says the only way to keep a wolf from eating chicken is to muzzle him,”but we are not keeping our wolf muzzled,” was his remark.
July 21, 1921 – reprinted August 24, 1988The forepart of the week, several Howells Catholic school Sokol girls were in Dodge attending a drill with the Dodge girls. Those going to Dodge were the Misses Sophie Prusa, Bessie Herout, Frances Stanek, Barbara Pinker, Adella Dvorak, Alma Poledna, Mary Drahota, Anna Pekarek, Eleanor Rysavy and Antonia Poledna
Last Sunday’s heavy rain filled the Maple creek brim full and the current was too much for the temporary bridge east of town. The structure was washed away, several hundred feet and turned over.
Another temporary bridge will be erected, as it will be some time yet before the work is commenced on the steel structure. For the present it is necessary that the transients detour one mile south.Wells-Abbott-Neiman Co. of Schuyler, the largest flour manufacturing concern between Minneapolis and the Pacific coast, closed Saturday for reorganization.
The plant will be reopened in three weeks under the management of a committee of preferred stockholders. Lack of ready cash was given by stockholders as the reason for the action. The concern is capitalized at $1,000,000; capital and preferred stock being in equal amounts. The committee accepted the resignation of Gerald Ehernberger, president, who several years ago succeeded the late Chauncey Abbott, Sr. Ehernberger will be succeeded by M. Wells of New York named by the committee. Wells now is in France. He will assume the management after his return. Mrs. P. Wagner of New York, is the heaviest individual preferred stockholder.
Much preferred stock also is owned in Schuyler and other Nebraska towns and cities, especially Omaha. But little common was held outside the Abbott and Nieman families.Mrs. James Pokorny of Schuyler who had been a patient at the David City hospital for the past two weeks, was able to leave the institution the fore part of the week and will spend a few days at the home of her sister, Mrs. Adolph Dlouhy.
District 63, the district adjoining Schuyler district on the east, has decided to hold no school for next year, but one pupil, Vernon Briard, of school age being a resident of the district. He is a member of the senior class of 1922, Schuyler High School.
Schuyler and Clarkson are the only two schools in Colfax county giving the normal training course participating in the distribution of state funds for this course, which amount to $500 per school per annum.
The four honor winners of the normal training student graduates; the Misses Sylvia Tyburec and Vlasta Swanda of Schuyler, and Olga Indra and Olga Lodl of Clarkson, each have contracted to teach in the rural schools in Colfax county, Miss Tyburec in District No. 1 at $77.50 per month; Miss Swanda, District No. 9 at $80.00 per month; Miss Indra, District No. 62 at $77.50 and Miss Lodl, No. 28 at $80.00 per month.Miss Lillian Brabec, accompanied by her mother, Mrs. Mary Brabec and Dr. Knight, went to Omaha, where the young lady underwent an operation for appendicitis at St. Joseph’s hospital.
Mr. and Mrs. M.O. Grover, residing near Cedar Rapids, spent a few hours visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Odvarka, Jr. On their return home, they were accompanied by Mrs. Odvarka and son, Morris, who will spend a week there visiting.
Vaclav Telecky arrived from Cedar Rapids, Iowa for an extended stay with relatives and also plans to do some “overhauling” on his farm, located near the Zion church, which is being occupied by Vaclav Nadrachal.
Dr. Knight has been making repeated calls to the bedside of Jos. Novotny, Jr., who has been combating a slight dose of pneumonia.
Our old friend Jos. Stanek of Fairfax, S.D. stopped in at The Press office for a short visit. He had also been visiting friends in Howells and would not pass up a visit with his many friends here. He is employed at one of the banks in Fairfax.
Miss Libbie Slama took up the duties at the local post office as a postal clerk succeeding Miss Alice Schulty, who plans to teach school
John Markytan and family motored to Hooper where they took in the sights in that part of the state.
The “Neighborhood” dance which was advertised to be held by Krofta Bros., was postponed on account of the impeding rain storm, until next Sunday.
A picnic and dance will be given at the John J. Dudycha grove on Sunday evening. July 24. The celebrated Jirovec orchestra, reputed to be the best producers of syncopated music, will officiate.
James Palik and Henry Busch, Sr., of Howells were Clarkson visitors today, driving over in Mr. Pavlik’s luxurious car.
Providing the weather is a favorable, a large number of people plan to attend the services appropriate to the laying of the cornerstone for the new courthouse in Schuyler.
The delegation from Clarkson will be formed on main street in Clarkson between the hours of 12:00 and 1:00, the performance of the duties in connection with the ceremony has been placed into the hands of the Masonic order and the program has been arranged for the afternoon.The members of the W.J. Moore household of this city experienced a good deal of excitement during the electrical storm Sunday evening. Their home was struck by lightning, which caused only slight damage to the building.
Family peace had been interrupted by the unwelcomed visitor for a few moments but fortunately when the shock relieved them it was found that no one was hurt. The bolt struck the southwest corner of the house and then disappeared into the ground.Clarkson markets were: Wheat $1.00, oats $0.26, corn $0.36, hogs $9.00, butter $0.33, eggs $0.22.
July 21, 1921 – reprinted August 31, 1988According to the Columbus Daily Telegram, Josef Jirik, aged 78, and his wife, aged 74, through their attorneys have brought suit in district court against P.E. and Lugen McKillip, the Atlas Co., August, Joseph and Thomas Miller, and Clara Hoelscher. The petition is a lengthy one, and recites their friendship with the parents of the Millers and their confidence in them. This lulled them to believe that the children would be like their children.
In this they claim they were mistaken. They will tell how Joseph Miller came to them in June 3 years ago, to their little home in Prague, Nebraska, where they were living comfortably on the interest of a mortgage note of $10,000 for a farm they had sold. Miller inquired solicitously about their health, they allege, and later broached the subject of changing the form of their investment to a farm.
They say he worked on them until they finally agreed to look at a farm near Schuyler that was priced ridiculously cheap, the property of a Humphrey banker. They went to look at it. Almost the moment they arrived in the yard, they say, Jos. Miller, who was conducting negotiations, became ill, or pretended to and they were whisked back to town. They think now his sickness was manufactured for the occasion.
He came to them again and again and finally persuaded them to buy the farm. They contracted to do this, giving up their mortgage note and assuming something like ten thousand dollar as a debt on the place. They claim Miller said he would turn the place for a nice profit. He failed to do this. The bottom fell out of things; and on top of this they say the land was not what they claimed it was; in short they felt they were gypped.
They ask that the deal be upset.Prazak Motor Co. has reported the following sales since their last report: Frank J. Hanzel, new Ford touring; John Severa, Ralph J. Podany and Louis J. Podany each purchased a second-hand Ford. The firm also sold a Woods Bros. Thresher to Frank Hamernik of Hamil, SD.
A large concourse of friends and relatives gathered at St. John’s church in Howells to pay homage to James J. Vrba, who passed away quietly at his home in Howells last Friday, vividly visualized the prestige and honor the deceased young man enjoyed among his fellow residents.
Although his health had been failing for a long time, the passing of this splendid young man was not expected at this stage of life. After two surgeries and in constant pain he died July 15, 1921 at the age of 31 years, 5 months and 6 days.
He was born February 9, 1890 to Mr. and Mrs. Vaclav Vrba at Howells. He was married to Miss Antonia Sindelar October 10, 1911. He is survived by his wife, two children, Alma, who is 8 years old and Jimmy, being only 14 months old. Other survivors include his aged mother, Mrs. Barbara Vrba of Dodge; and five brothers and sisters, namely: Albert of Schuyler, Frank of Howells, Mrs. Sophie Herzberg of Dix, Nebraska, John of Rogers, Mrs. Mary Kemp, Joseph Charles and Miss Barbara Vrba of Dodge.
July 21, 1921 – reprinted September 7, 1988Fred Opocensky and family of Omaha arrived at the Humlicek home for a short visit. This morning the visitors left in company with George, Frankie, Vlasta and Blanche Humlicek headed for Lake Okoboji, Iowa where they will enjoy a few days outing. The trip was made in two cars.
The Dusatko family and James Hamsa and his mother spent Sunday motoring in Butler county. They spent the day visiting at several different places and came home in the evening.
Emil J. Konicek of near Lindsay and his neighbor, C.D. Jenkins, were in town this forenoon and were posting bills for the Farm Bureau picnic that will be held at the Andy Tomhagen grove east of Battle Creek July 28.
They told us that the management of the celebration was successful in closing a contract between Stanley Buresh of Clarkson and Pat McGill of Wisner, for a wrestling bout, which will be one of the many numbers on the program.
Miss Lilly Suchy, daughter of Mrs. A.J. Hamernik, is in Omaha visiting friends this week.
Vaclav Truhlar arrived here this week from Czechoslovakia to make the United States his future home. The young man was called here by his brothers, Frank and Jerry, with whom he will make his home for the present. We are told that his journey was a pleasant one.
As the day drew to its end last Thursday, Joseph Krupka, an old-time resident of Howells, laid down the burdens of this life to enter the celestial kingdom of our Supreme ruler.
He passed away after a long siege of rheumatism with which he was ailing for the past two years. He attained the age of 73 years, having arrived in this country 43 years ago.
Survivors besides his wife are the following children: Joseph F., residing on a farm south of Howells; Mrs. Mary Chudomelka of Dodge; Mrs. Josephine Pokorny and Mrs. Anna Cejda, Howells; Mrs. Wm. Kasper of near Tabor; Mrs. Stella Diouhy of Schuyler and Miss Agnes, who is living at home.Edwin Kriz left for Omaha, where he has accepted a position with one of the architectural firms of that city.
D.W. Killeen, one of the bankers in Schuyler, accompanied by Father Turek, were in Howells last Friday, coming up in Mr. Killeen’s Cadillac.
Thirty-two little boys and girls, who have been receiving instructions from Father Drbal, pastor of St. John’s Catholic Church in Howells, received their first Holy Communion on Sunday, July 17.
They are Rudolph Novak, Ernest Vesely, Melvin Schlecht, Rudolph Marik, William Sindelar, Adolph Kucera, Anton Herout, Vincene Dvorak, Lumir Drahota, William Balak, Jim Vesely, Charlie Vesely, Lumir Hampl, Lambert Hron, Frank Herout, Frank Novotny; Christina Sindelar, Bessie Karel, Lillian Sindelar, Arline Coufal, Leona Vrba, Adela Evert, Emma Dlouhy, Leona Konsel, Anna Kovar, Adela Pekarek, Irene Mestl, Helen Novak, Martha Folda, Anna Sindelar, Helen Kadlec and Mary Rehak.Mrs. John Eusterwiemann went to Omaha to visit her father, Henry Schlautman, who is recuperating in one of the hospitals in that city.
Adolph Balak returned to his home in Howells after a few days visit with his sister, Miss Julia, and friends.
Father Brucker of Leigh was in Howells in his new Dodge touring car which he purchased recently.
F.W. Schwanke, one of the extensive livestock feeders of Stanton county, was on the market with a carload of stock last Tuesday.
Richtig Bros., who have the Paige automobile dealership had a half page ad in The Colfax County Press advertising the Paige “Daytona 6-66” model, which has captured 10 world’s records in stock chassis and listed itself as a the leader of all American sporting cars. The official record shows that one-mile was made in 35.01 at 102.8 miles per hour.
The personal assessment schedules filed with the Colfax county clerk, and on these returns the 1921 tax was figured. The names of every county resident and the actual value as sworn to by the person assessed was printed. The tax list covered 3 pages of the Press.
July 21, 1921 – reprinted September 14, 1988The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Dworak of Richland, passed away at the general hospital in Leigh. The tot was only three days old, having been born June 29. Funeral services were held at St. Mary’s church in Wilson precinct, Colfax County.
Jos. Herink of Leigh drove to Stanton to meet his sister, Mrs. J.T. Jensen and husband and daughter of Burke, S.D. They will visit in Leigh a short time and then off to Omaha, where Mr. Jensen will receive medical attention.
Frank Smrz is enjoying a well earned vacation from his duties in the First National Bank of Leigh, and left yesterday for Clarkson to visit his sister. He will also spend some time in Omaha visiting with relatives and friends before returning to work.
The American Legion post at Leigh will soon be issued a set of army rifles. This news was received by Post Adjutant W.A. Vlach. The State headquarters will supply the weapons. “ The rifles will be used for drilling, firing salutes, and in case of necessity may also be used for other purposes,” Mr. Vlach stated.
A large group of interested businessmen and farmers gathered at Leigh to make plans to see whether the livestock show should be continued. Those named as the committee in charge of the upcoming livestock show were Joseph Blecha, Frank Trojan, Ed. Malena, Henry Littelman and Emil Ahrens. The Commercial Club at Leigh at this time also decided to return the road drag which had been in Leigh for a demonstration.
Clarks Milling & Grain Co. handled the Peony brand of flour at its place of business.
July 28, 1921 – reprinted September 21, 1988Four weeks ago The Press contained the concise information relative to the fatal accident in Prague, Czechoslovakia that claimed the lives of Robert Stastny and his girlfriend, Miss Christina Stejskal of Detroit. Since then, we now received full details of the terrible accident from the Foldas.
“They were members of the Bohemian-American expedition now touring Czechoslovakia when the accident happened,” Tony and Emil Folda wrote that the aeroplane in which the pilot and his two passengers died, was only taken up twice before, being a new machine.
“The pilot and the girl were burned beyond recognition and Robert, who had evidently occupied the back seat, was hurled a distance of several feet, when the machine hit the ground. The people standing nearby grabbed him and carried him to a safe place. The machine and the pilot and other passenger were burnt.
Robert lived exactly 6 hours after the accident and was able to see his mother, whom he recognized. She was the only one allowed to see him. And while grandpa, Mr. F.J. Sadilek of Wilbur, Nebr., was at house at the time of the accident until just a few minutes before Robert died. The bodies were taken to Liberec, where they will be cremated and the ashes sent to the United States for burial.
The people on tour viewed the body of Robert, who looks natural except that his face is bruised up and partly blue. The girls body was burned to charcoal and beyond recognition. The coffins will be sealed at 3 O’clock and the funeral will be held in some old church. It was ironic but among the things found on Robert’s body was a watch with face broken but still running after the accident. There is no crematory in Praha, the reason for the bodies to Liberec, which is 90 miles away.F.J. Rychtig, senior member of the Rychtig Bros. auto firm came near losing his life, the result of being struck in the face with an auto crank. He intended to go out on a mission and as the starting attachment on his car weakened to a very low point, he endeavored to start the vehicle with the aid of a crank.
The engine refusing to respond after giving it a few turns, Frank braced himself up and proceeded to crank the car vigorously without a stop so as to give it every possible chance to ignite, when suddenly the motor started off at terrific speed and slinging the crank directly into his face. Thanks to his strong constitution that he was not knocked out cold as an examination by Dr. Kavan revealed that his nose bridge had been broken. He also inflicted a severe wound near one of his eyes, it being necessary to bring the contusion together with several stitches. This accident caused Frank a great deal of agony.The appointment of Clement Kuska of Ohiowa, Nebr., as agricultural agent to succeed H.L. Nye was announced after a meeting of the farm bureau.
Kopac Bros., our former townsmen and well-known automobile men, were friends of the soil ever since they were large enough to follow the plow and through all their successful years of business they never fully condemned the farming pursuits.
Last fall they put in a whole section of wheat in Cheyenne and are now in the midst of its harvest. They are now using the combine harvester and thresher, doing both feats at the same time. It will be some time before they complete the task, but feel that they will be well repaid for their efforts. They estimate to harvest about 25,000 bushels of wheat which is of splendid quality.Reports are coming to town from the countryside that the environment is overrun by scores of despicable characters, some of them causing considerable unease. The other day a man of questionable character frightened Mrs. Frank Bartak, Jr., to the degree that she asked the man in question what he wanted and after he refused to tell her, she reached inside the house and grasped a gun standing nearby and ordered the man to leave the premises or otherwise she would use the weapon with the intent to feel safe.
The stranger lost no time in recollecting that his presence was embarrassing and made a quick exit from the farm. A day or two later, Mrs. Jos. Karel, residing five miles north of Clarkson, called here for assistance and stated that a strange looking character was loitering about the farm. In the meantime a posse of farmers succeeded in running the man from the place who was said to on his way to Stanton. Opinions differ as to the identity of the stranger, some claiming that he is the man who was seen lately near Schuyler.
Others think he is a band weary I.W.W. S.’s classed generally as vagrants.Vladislav Odvarka, a former Clarkson boy, more recently of Omaha, departed for Denver, Colorado, where he will attend the dental college of the University of Denver. This is Lad’s last year to complete the preliminary 4-year course.
July 28, 1921 – reprinted September 28, 1988Our friend, A.B. Fiala, at the end of this week, will be on his way to Europe. He arrived in Chicago from his western trip a week ago and is spending a week there to get all his mail, he will depart for New York to board a streamer that will carry him across the water. After visiting some of the important cities of the eastern continent, he will take up a course at the University of Prague and will then follow missionary work.
The press received a card from Mr. and Mrs. R.V. Prokop, who arrived safely in the state of California. At the time of writing the card they have been resting up during the day for a night drive across the desert where the thermometer registered 110 in the shade.
"Daughter of Devil Dan" a romance of old Kentucky, plus a comedy, "Fellow Romans" will be shown at the Opera House in Clarkson Sunday, July 31.
Yesterday morning, according to the Columbus Daily Telegram, Charley Jaworski received a hurry up call from Henry Brunken, living northwest of Platte Center, saying someone had shot a horse for him and to bring the dogs in an effort to locate the fellow.
Charley took the dogs to the Brunken place, found where the horse had been shot in a nearby oats stubble field, and scouted around until they found tracks in a cornfield, just the proper distance away from a pot shot.
The dogs led the officers across to a neighbor’s a short distance away onto the porch, and to the kitchen door. The man was away from home, and had not returned last night. Another neighbor says his departure took place while the dogs were getting the scent in the cornfield. There may be developments.What is said to be the largest deal ever made in the state of Nebraska was closed this week when D.C. Daily of O’Neill purchased a section two miles south of Magnet, Nebr., one of the best Butterfield ranches in this section of the state, for $206,000 from Otto Bruggman of Bloomfield, Nebraska. A half section of land near O’Neill valued at $36,000.
A most unfortunate accident occurred in the Newman Grove neighborhood when the two-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. O. Jacobson came to her death by drowning.
Her tiny fingers slipped from their uncertain grasp on the side of an eight-gallon jar, into which she had been reaching, causing the tot to slip head foremost into four inches of water that covered the bottom of the container.While moving weeds about his place the latter part of last week, Charles Haidley of Schuyler found in the weeds, the rifle which had been stolen from his home about 10 days ago. Near the gun was also a note saying “you will find the gun in a few days under the bridge.” Mr. Haidley is at a loss to know how the gun came to be there, and who the party was who took it from the house, as no member of the family was at home.
The gun had been placed behind the door upstairs, and the cartridges were in a dish in the kitchen. In going to the upstairs part of the house, the other rifle was passed in the stairway. The finding of the note and gun deepens the mystery, but Mr. Haidley is beginning to concentrate his suspicions.A quiet home wedding took place last evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McMullin, who live southwest of Leigh, when their daughter, Dessie, was given in marriage to Fred G. Marty.
Following the marriage services the wedding party was served a sumptuous wedding feast, after which the young couple left for a short honeymoon trip. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Marty. He is now engaged in the clothing business in Leigh.Anton and Frank Kopac returned from a several days motor trip to western Nebraska. They spent a couple days with Emil, who is now in the midst of harvesting a section of wheat. Three brothers, Emil, Ed, and John purchased a section two years ago and Emil has been in charge of the ranch. It is estimated that the wheat will produce 40 bushels per acre.
The crops put in with the use of a large caterpillar tractor and the harvesting is being done with the use of a 20-foot combine, cutting and threshing all in one operation. The first day the machine was able to make five round of the entire section or about 20 miles and grain cut and threshed weighed about 4,600 bushels. The trip home was made between the hours of five in the morning and eleven in the evening. 340 miles.Mrs. J.L. Sinkula of Schuyler, who has been in failing health for the past several months, was taken to Fremont and an X-ray examination. Her condition is reported as serious.
July 28, 1921 – reprinted October 5, 1988Honorable Donald McLeod of Schuyler is in receipt of a letter from Captain Ethelbert Talbot of the U.S. Marines headquarters, Kansas City, advising him that the Marines will be ready to respond to his call at the funeral of his son, Corporal Fred McLeod, whose remains will reach Schuyler for reinternment.
Mr. McLeod had previously requested that the American Legion be in charge of the services and he at once referred the letter to the Commander of McLeod Post. No further word has been received by Mr. McLeod as to when the body will be expected to reach Schuyler.The 16-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Korte of Howells had the misfortune to fall from a horse and fracture a small bone in her left leg. Dr. Hebenstriet was called to dress the injured member.
Dr. Meyers was called to the Jos. Kunhart farm to dress the wounds sustained by Emil Kunhart in a run-away. The young man was engaged in hauling water to the threshing outfit when suddenly the engineer blew the whistle which frightened the team.
The horses made a getaway with the water wagon, throwing Emil into a barbed-wire fence. He was severely cut about the face and hands. A similar accident befell Rudolph Novotny, who was more fortunate in escaping the fray as he received only a few bruises about the body. He was also treated by Dr. Myers.Word was received in Howells by the Iwansky boys, announcing the death of their father. Roman Iwansky, 51 years, who died at the Lincoln hospital after a lingering illness.
The deceased is survived by his wife and three sons, Edward and Emil of Howells and John of Lewiston, Montana.Our accommodating central girls, Misses Emma Storek and Mary Bartak have been enjoying a 10-day vacation, most of which was spent at the Jos. Bartak home near Creston. Of course, while there they also took several plunges at the Creston Pool.
Paul P. Platz and family motored over from David City and spent the day visiting at the Anton Odvarka home.
Postmaster G.A. Koza and family and Ralph Podany spent the early part of the week in Omaha. The trip was made in Mr. Koza’s fine Essex. During the postmaster’s absence, the office work was attended to by the Misses Alice Schultz, and Libbie Slama.
Louis Boubin, one of our 1919 graduates, who has been attending the Grand Island business college, arrive home last week for a month’s vacation.
Anton Bartak was up the line this week as far as Lindsay on a business mission.
Joe Noh returned from Fort Snelling, Minnesota, where he had been for some time training.
The business of the Standard Oil Co. at the local station has grown to such an extent that it was necessary for the company to have two men attending to the sale of oils and gas. In addition to manager Polcin the company has hired the services of Adolph Jonas who is making the rounds with the tank.
J.E. Smatlan & Son, Schuyler, will hold a Poland China bred sow auction on the farm one-mile west of Schuyler on August 17. Sold will be 30 head of tried sows, yearlings and two-year-old sired by Big Bob, Joe’s Prospect, Long Jumbo, The Clansman Jr., Nebraska Bob, Gertsdale Jones, Long Wonder Again, The Vagabond and Orange Giant.
Mrs. F.V. Vidlak and little son of Clarkson went to Howells for a visit with her mother, Mrs. Anna Karel and other relatives.
Again a lot of good fat cattle were shipped from Howells to the Omaha market. Anton Telecky having one car, Ed Telecky, one car and Joe Nagaengast, five cars.
J.E. Sindelar and wife, who have been sojourning in the mountains of Colorado for the past two weeks, arrived home in Howells in their dependable Buick coupe, feeling that it was time well spent and enjoyed.
Quite a little excitement was created in Howells, Monday evening, when an airplane circled around the city several times as if though the pilot was looking for a place to land. The machine landed in Jos. Hobubuek’s Stubblefield and within a few minutes was surrounded by a crown of anxious sightseers. All kinds of reports were heard around that evening. One little boy remarked that grandpa said, “It was President Harding going to Cheyenne, Wyoming to Frontier Days,” Many other imaginable reports were heard, however, it developed that the machine belongs to the Justice-Romain Co, and stopped here to carry passengers. It left Howells the following morning.
July 28, 1921 – reprinted October 12, 1988Rudolph Telecky, one of the prominent young farmers of near Howells, was on the Omaha market with one of the finest herds of cattle ever shipped from Howells. They were big fellows and finished to perfection, averaging in weight better than 1600 pounds to the head.
Jos. Wostoupal, the prominent monument dealer of West Point, was in town looking after business in his line.
James Palik grocery store in Howells had these specials in a very large ad in The Colfax County Press – Sweet prunes 10 pounds $1.00, Santos Peaberry coffee 10 pounds $2.25, Lemons dozen $0.50, 100 pounds sugar $6.75, No. 1 Blue Rose rice $0.06 pound, Velvet tobacco 2 cans for $0.25, Boys heavy blue denim overalls $0.79, Government wool blankets, fit any bed. They cost the government over $6.00 each and we are selling them for $3.90 each while they last. Armour Brand roast beef $0.19 pound.
The 1921 Nebraska State Fair will be held in Lincoln September 4-5-6-7-8-9. Our aim “A Greater Nebraska” and our motto “Service to the Greatest Numbers.”
Mrs. Ludvik Luxa was in Fremont, visiting her daughter, Bertha, who is recovering after an operation in a hospital there.
L.R. Coufal and little daughters, Arline and Celestine of Howells motored to Schuyler and on their return trip were accompanied by Miss Adeline Tichacek of Linwood and the Misses Nell and Mary Morris of Kearney, who are spending several days at the Coufal home.
C.M. Sutherland of Lincoln, at one time principal of the Howells public schools, was in town shaking hands with old friends and looking after the interests of the Federal Insurance Company which he represents.
Fred Lerch and little son, and his father, John Lerch and Chris Wittgow and family motored to Lincoln last week for a visit with friends.
Julius Pieper, hustling real estate man of Albion, was on the streets of Howells visiting with friends.
Frank Mundil returned from Western South Dakota, where he has been holding down a homestead for some time. He informs us that he has proven up on his claim and for the present will remain in Clarkson. Mr. Mundil reports a good grain crop in the section where his place is located.
F.B. Schultz, Emil R. Dudek and Jos. G. Vosacek returned from their outing in northern Wisconsin. They camped in the woods, boated, fished and swam in the lakes, cooked over a campfire and enjoyed outdoor life to the limit.
In addition they acquired an elegant tan and developed an appetite that it has kept their women folks hustling to supply every since their return.While unloading freight Jos. Zelenda badly sprained and bruised two of the fingers on his right hand.
Dr. S.G. Allen has sold theJindra 80, which he recently traded for, to Chris Gross for $90 per acre. The land adjoins Mr. Gross’ home place.
Gus Koza and Anton Prazak returned from Wasta, S.D., where they also visited with Thos. Friet, who is doing well in the jewelry business. They were also very pleased with the country.
Jos. Krikac, Emil Slama and Jos. Tichy returned from their trip to South Dakota. While there Messrs. Slama and Tichy invested in a quarter section of land through the agency of Mr. Krikac. All expresses themselves as being well pleased with the crop conditions in the state.
Mrs. J. Holan and her daughter, Miss Julia, and Mrs. Mary Sousek started yesterday morning for a trip to Colorado. Before their return they will visit Denver, Colorado Springs, and other points of interest in the Centennial state.
Joke of the day: “ Did they realize anything from the ice carnival? Certainly, plenty of cold cash.”
The VFW Buddy Poppy is a symbol of the sacrifices made by the nation’s war dead in the great conflicts for peace.
July 28, 1921 - reprinted Oct 19, 1988Dr. Kavan reports the birth of a baby girl at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank R .Dvorak, residing in Wilson precinct.
Miss Polly Polansky was a passenger to Omaha, where she works at the hospital there.
A fine baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. Emil Sindelar, northwest of town.
Clarkson Markets: Wheat $1.00, oats $0.23, corn $0. 36, rye $0.80, hogs $9.70, butter $0.22, and eggs $0.21.
Miss Etta Bukacek, who makes her home in Omaha in pursuit to her nursery work, arrived here for a visit with relatives.
The Jos. F. Jirovec family and Dr. and Mrs. T.C. Chudomelka returned from their to-weeks’ outing in the picturesque Minnesota country. They spent the entire time at resorts, fishing, bathing and camping. The only sad part of the story was the report of the loss of a large bunch of spring chickens taken from Joe’s henhouse during the family’s absence. Upon their visit to the chicken yard after their arrival home, it did not take long for them to observe that a raid had been perpetrated on the flock by someone who carried away about 35 birds, large enough for the broiler. Despite the loss, Joe is elated over the fact that he sold a bunch of chickens before leaving on the trip, fearing that they would estray before his return.
Petr Zak returned from Omaha where he attended to business for the local shipping association.
Jos Hulla of Blue Rapids, Kansas was seen here for a brief time, coming down for his Dodge roadster which had been left at one of the local garages for repair after the collision he had several weeks ago.
Frank Powolny, the local photographer, returned from Columbus, where he had been called to assist at the Fennel Studio during Mr. Fennel’s absence from the city. The object of Mr. Fennel’s leaving was to attend the national convention of photographers in Buffalo, N.Y. He was elected president of that group in the central division of professional picturemen.