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! The following are selections from that column:
April 6, 1922 - reprinted June 5, 1991Dr. Kavan spent the major part of the past week assisting Dr. Stork in the presentation of fine babies to a number of families in this neighborhood. They left a baby girl at the John Novak farm home and blessed the homes of Joseph Karel and Anton F. Teply with bouncing boys.
Emil Mrsny, who at one time was manager of the Nye Schneider Fowler yards at Clarkson, was arraigned before the board of equalization at Schuyler on complaint of his wife last week and ajudged insane. Mrsny is said to have threatened his wife's life at various times the forbearance of which culminated last Thursday.
He was immediately taken to Norfolk and placed in the asylum. While at Clarkson, Mrsny attempted suicide by shooting himself in the head but his plans were frustrated after a miraculous operation performed on him in Omaha which resulted in the removal of the projectile from his cerebelum. Since that time he had been subject to frequent attacks of hysteria and mental derangement.
His [sic] is a brother of Adolph Mrsny, who shot and wounded his wife last week at Randolph over family troubles and then attempted to take his own life.Frank Ferenc, the Clarkson butcher is making arrangements for an extended sojourn to the land of his birth, Bohemia. He expects to sail from New York the forepart of May and will remain in the old country about three months providing he is pleased with the country.
The trip across the Atlantic will be made on the Olympic, one of the finest steamships afloat.
We are informed that Elden Faltys, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Faltys, and Bohumil Beran are figuring on accompanying Mr. Ferenc on the distant voyage, however, Mr. Beran is not as yet fully determined if he will go for sure.
Among the more notable points to be visited will be the western battle field and ruins left in the parth of the late war.The interior of the corner soft drink stand at Leigh, owned by Steve Gloser was considerably damaged by fire late Saturday night.
Mr. Gloser also handles flour and feed, and this stock besides the fixtures, was damaged to the extent of $900.00. The origin of the fire is unknown to us at this writing.Filip Roether started out on his official mission of assessing Adams precinct and expects to complete the job sometime this month, providing the weather wll be favorable.
He was at Schuyler ast Friday meeting with the county assessor and posting himself with the instructions governng this year's campaign.John Sajatovic, a former Clarksonite and for a number of years section foreman here, arrived in Clarkson from Chicago for a week's visit with relatives and former friends.
John had been engaged in the grovery business at Cicero, suburb of Chicago, for some time and after selling out went to work as a foreman in the foundary shop.
Mr. Sajatovic is negotating with the C.N.W. people for a section job at Humphrey and in case he is successful in landing the position, he wll move back to good old Nebraska regardless of all the inducements he was offered in the windy city.Frank Hejtmanek disposed of his personal property at a public sale yesterday and on Saturday plans to depart with his wife for Chicago, where they intend to locate for some time.
The Severa house which they vacated is to be occupied by Frank Vidlak and his family. Vaclav Krofta is to take possession of the Pospisil residence which was leased by the Vidlak family.Better Times Ahead.
When a person is downright sick it riles him to have well-meaning friends tell him he is alright--nothing ails him.
When a man is broke it does not go down well for somebody to "kid" him about it. The sick man wants sympathy and a cure. The broke man wants understanding and at least leniency on the part of his creditors. A man who has passed the crisis and is on the way to recovery is benefited by being told that he is better.
Those who bravely hung on and smiled, if they could, can heave a sigh of relief, for the worst is over. Better times are not only [sic] but are here. The prices of farm products have risen to an encouraging level and seem to be going still higher. Right here is where some are going to make a mistake. You know it is hard to sell anything on a declining market because buyers think they better wait and get things cheaper. This brings business stagnation. And it is just as true that producers do not like to sell on a rising market. They want to wait and get a little more. It is difficult to tell just when to let go and sell. Such is pure speculation.
The thing to do is to sell when the price seems fair enough, and meet your obligations or buy the necessary things. Such an attitude will start the wheels moving throughout the country.
Reports from manufacturers indicate that business is picking up. The railroads are hauling much more freight, which is a fair indication that stuff is moving again. Banks are easing up on credit, with plenty of money at lower rate. Merchants are having sales that clear their stores of wartime priced goods. The sale of steel indicates a revival of building which means work for the labor.
World trade has been improving, which means that the world is getting over its spree. However, Europe has not yet deflated to the extent we have, so we may expect more or less depression until money the world over more nearly approaches par.One of the best examples of the fact that the country is passing the melancholy period is evidenced by the sale of motor cars, tractors and other items of similar character.
It is also an indelible sign of better times in reach of all. The last few days have been especially busy for Fajman Motor Co., who sold and delivered four Cub tractors complete with plowing attachments, the purchasers being Tony Loeffler of Lindsay, H.E. Anderson of Oakland, Henry Loeffler of Lindsay and William Oeltjen of Creston. If that isn't a sign of resurrection, what is it?As could have been expected, the city election held Tuesday passed by very quietly. A light vote was polled, the majority of votes being cast for the candidates whose names appeared on the ballot. Messrs. L.J. Stransky and A.J. Vlach were elected village trustees and Emil E. Dudek and A.J. Vlach have been reelected members of the board of education.
Filbert Wacha has let the job of building a modern residence on his lots north of the E.E. Dudek home to Chleboun and Shaffer. Excavation is to begin at once as soon as the weather settles down.
When the Colfax County Board of Commissioners met, they set the price of road dragging for the year 1922 as follows: For dragging roads with a four (4) horse drag that the price be 75c per miles. The county will also pay road-overseers and all road work for the year 1922 as follows: One man and two teams 75c per hour; one man and one team 55c per hour; one man only 35c per hour.
The board also accepted the resignation of M.F. Shonka as precinct assessor.
April 6, 1922 - reprinted June 12, 1991According to the Humphrey Democrat, a small 22 calibre bullet put an end to the life of Albert Boyer just at the time when everything looked more promising for him. The young man met his death on last Thursday evening at the home of Mrs. Fred Baumgart, Sr., where he had gone to spend the evening, the vehicle which put an end to his existence upon earth being in the hands of Chas. Kehn, a young lad about 15 years of age.
The killing was purely accidental and no blame was placed upon the lad who, as yet, scarcely realizes the seriousness of the deed and the sadness it has brought into the homes of the relatives of the young man whose life he has ended.
Albert, who for the past five or six years had been making his home with his sister, Mrs. Fred Baumgart, Jr., and family on the fatal evening finished up his chores about the house ahd decided that he would go down town for a short time, but changed his mind and went to the home of Mrs. Fred Baumgart Sr. to spend the evening.
While there he and young Chas. Kehn engaged in conversation about various things and in the course of events young Kehn got up from his chair and went to a cabinet aside of which was a Winchester rifle. On the shelf in the cabinet was a box of shells which the young fellow got and filled the magazine of the rifle, to see how many the gun would hold, counting the shells as he put them in. He was cautioned not to leave the shells in the gun and he immediately took out the magazine and dumped the shells on the cabinet and put them back into the box, the rifle laying on the cabinet he again picked up the rifle and replaced the magazine, placing the gun under his arm with his back to Albert who was sitting across the room filling his pipe for a smoke.
He then noticed that he had not closed the trigger on the gun and he snapped it and at the same time made a movement to replace the gun to the place from which he had gotten it. With the snapping of the trigger there was a report like that of an air rifle, and Albert, who had just leaned over to get a match from his pocket, rose from his chair, exclaiming "get Fred, call the doctor," and fell to the floor.
Both Mrs. Baumgart and young Kehn were astounded by his cry, not realizing that anything serious happened. Mrs. Baumgart immediately called her son, Fred, and the doctor, who immediately made response but on arrival the stricken man was past all earthly aid, he having died almost instantly. The bullet, which killed him went into his neck just above the collar bone and severed the juglar vein.
Had it struck just an eighth of an inch lower it would have struck his collar bone, or had it gone in just the least bit any other way he would have been wounded and nothing more.
On account of being a purely accidental affair County Attorney Walters felt that there was no necessity of an inquest and none was held. Evidently no correct count was made of the shells when they were taken from the rifle and one of them became lodged into the gun and when the magazine was replaced this cartridge was thrown into the barrel of the rifle.On Monday evening a number of the patrons of both telephone exchanges at St. Edward held a meeting and after much discussion decided that on or before May 1st they would throw out their Bell phones and use only the Skeedee Independent, hoping by this means to compel the Bell people to withdraw from the city and connect their toll lines with the independent board, a few of the optimistic predicting that this will happen withing 30 days.
This is the culmination of the efforts that have been made in the last few months to bring about a consolidation of exchanges, which for a time seem probable, but which fell through when the Independent people were unable to make the grade after the Bell people had agreed to sell their plant at a figure conservatively estimated at about half the regular price.J. J. McFarland of Dodge Criterion Dies
The death of James J. McFarland occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Rich Daniell on March 24. When the word reached Stanton of Mr. McFarland’s death it was a shock to his many friends who did not even know that he had been ill. Mr. McFarland had been ailing for a number of years and the past year his condition grew much worse. A short time ago, tuberculosis developed and in spite of the fact that the best of medical authorities were consulted, no relief or benefit could be obtained, the end coming peacefully at the home of his daughter.
James J. McFarland was born March 9, 1857 in Marion county, Ind., and died March 24 at the age of 65 years and 15 days. He came to Nebraska with his parents in the year 1864, settling with his parents on a homestead in what is now known as Hoosier Hollow.
In 1878 he was married to Miss Hannah E. Lovett. In the year 1884 he purchased the Stanton Democrat which he operated for about 5 years later buying the Register and consolidating the two. He was then editor of the Register for 12 years.
In 1901 he bought the Dodge Criterion and had active possession of it until 1919 when it was that his wife died. The shock was too much for him and he was no longer able to stand up under the burden of the managing and editing of the paper, so he turned it over to his son, Elmer. For the past three years Mr. McFarland made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Rich Daniell, and with his son in Dodge, visiting back and forth.
He leaves to mourn his loss four children: Mrs. A. R. Daniell of Stanton, Elmer of Dodge, Reginald and Maurice of Stanton, two other sons, Chester and Orville, having died in childhood.Mrs. Jos. T. Votava and little daughter of Omaha are here since last week visiting at the Dusatko home.
Olga Indra, teacher at school district # 62 five miles south and two and one half miles west of Clarkson, has announced that a grand box social will be held at the school April 14.
Dr. Carl Joseph Alger, aged 65, died in Winner, S. D. on March 17, 1922.
Carl Joseph Alger was born Febr. 22, 1857 in Leer, Ostfriesland, Germany, graduating from the University of Berlin with the degrees of Ph. D. and M. A. and two years of surgery and medicine. He left the army as a first lieutenant of calvary and came to the United States when 29 years of age.
He contracted tuberculosis and spent a great many years in the mountains, overcame the disease, and finished his course in medicine and surgery in the University of Colorado at Boulder in June, 1893.
On Sept. 2, 1893, Dr. Alger was united in marriage to Jessie Gertrude Litsey in Denver, and to this union were born three children, Clements, Lois and Carl. He also leaves two grandchildren, Christine Marie and Leonard Warren Alger; two sisters in Germany and one in Florida.
After practicing medicine for a time in Denver, Dr. Alger then settled in Nebraska, practicing in Columbus, Leigh, Howells and Pilger. He quit the practice of medicine March 1, 1921, and moved to the homestead in Tripp county, South Dakota, where he spent the few remaining days of his life. He caught a bad cold and took to his bed in January, from which he never rose. Complications set in and finally the resistance of the weakened system gave way and he died in Winner, S.D. at 3:45 Friday afternoon, March 17, 1922.
Funeral services, conducted by Rev. Rew Walz, were held at the home near Ideal Monday afternoon, and interment was made in the Winner cemetery.
April 6, 1922 - reprinted June 19, 1991The eight-year-old son of Rudolph Telecky, fell from a wagon load of oats and fractured his right arm just below the elbow. Dr. Myers was called to dress the injury.
John Cerny, Sr., has been staying for a few days at the farm home of his son-in-law, John Blazek, and last Saturday had the misfortune to fall and wrench his back. Owing to his advanced age, it will be necessary for him to be laid up for some time. He is under the care of Dr. Myers.
John Kines, Robert Studnicka and Wm. Bierbaum had business at the seat of county government.
Mike Hader, Lincoln precinct assessor, was at Schuyler attending a meeting of all precinct assessors where they were given final instructions by County Assessor McNally for the work which opened up this week.
Baumert & Bogner received a full carload of wire fencing and nails direct from the factory.
Dr. Myers was called out to the Frank Ruskamp home near Olean and before his departure presented the parents with a fine baby girl.
Miss Anna Broz of Howells was a passenger to Omaha, where she visited a few days with her brothers, John and Thomas, students at the Creighton Medical College.
L. E. Krajicek and family of Bruno spent Sunday in Howells visiting at the J. F. Krajicek and James Misek homes.
The Howells village election was a real quiet affair last Tuesday. Only one ticket was in the field and since no other issue was involved a small vote was turned in.
Messrs. Henry Baumert and John T. Mestl were re-elected as village trustees. The school election had a little more activity as there were four candidates and following was the vote cast: F. C. Hrabak 7, R. L. Suchan 43, J. A. Novak 32, Mrs. R. F. Busch 32. The first two were elected.
A total of 94 ballots were cast for trustees and 95 ballots for the school board.Jerome Polansky, who has been spending the winter months in Western Kansas, returned home. During his sojourn in the southwest he also made a trip to Denver, Colo., where he remained for a few days. On Monday he left for Fremont to take up employment offered him by his brother-in-law, Louis Spangler, contractor and builder.
Jas. Kabes purchased the old Jetter beer vault located near the depot and is now engaged in tearing the structure down. He will use the lumber for various improvements on his farm northwest of Clarkson.
April 6, 1922 - reprinted June 26, 1991Mrs. Frank Kucera is seriously ill at her home in Clarkson, it being necessary to call a nurse from Omaha in consultation with Dr. Kavan. Her condition is distressing and her recovery is a matter of speculation.
Mrs. Jos. Juva, Jr. is spending her fourth week at Omaha, where she submitted to an operation and which so far has proven unsuccessful. We understand that her condition is very critical and several more weeks may pass before she will be able to return home.
Pups for Sale: I have several dandy rat terrier pups for sale. About 3 months old. Come from a good breed and are excellent annibilators of rats. Price reasonable. Anton J. Podany, Rt. 3, Clarkson.
Clarkson Markets— Wheat $1.10, oats 25c-27c, Corn 37c-39c, Rye 70c, Hogs $9.50, Butter 15c, Eggs 19c.
A Grand Bazaar will be held under the auspices of the J.C.D. Ladies Lodge of Clarkson at the Opera House on Friday, April 14 beginning at 2:00 p.m. The afternoon will be devoted to the sale of fancy work and all other articles donated for this purpose.
J. R. Vitek and Bros., Clarkson, advertised the International 8-16 Two Plow Tractor that pulls two plows and then some for $670 F.O.B. Chicago.
Between now and May 1, J. R. Vitek and Bros. will give away to every purchaser of an International 8-16 tractor, a genuine 2-bottom P & O plow Free F.O.B. Chicago.
Under the same conditions a 3-bottom plow will be given away free with each Titan 10-20 tractor at $700. Both tractor and plow F.O.B. Chicago.The Clarkson Cafe is changing hands for the fifth time since the beginning of the year. A month ago the place was purchased by Messrs. James Krofta and Frank Hubacek, the former selling his share to his partner two weeks ago. Last Friday Mr. Hubacek sold half interest in the business to Adolph Nebola. The boys are enjoying good business and intend to establish themelves permenantly [sic].
F. J. Richtig, J. D. Wolf and Frank Wolf were at Norfolk on business Tuesday.
Anton Dusatko was a passenger to Omaha, going down on business.
Misses Alby Hajek, Elsie Brabec and Lillie Bukacek were Howells visitors Saturday.
Miss Viola Church left for Fremont last Monday, where she will remain for some time.
Rudolph Sobeslavsky departed for Wilber, where he accepted a position at one of the meat markets. Rudolph is an industrious young man and we are certain that his employer will find him a trustworthy employee.
Frank Vlcek, bartender at the Jos. Slama emporium, left for Omaha to spend a few days at his old home.
Notice: I will be in Clarkson every Tuesday for those desiring piano lessons. Pauline Bates, Leigh. Nebr.
Miss Ida Svoboda, who had been staying at Valentine, during the past 3 months at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Splichal, returned home this morning.
Stanley Bures was here from Dodge a few days this week. He tells us that he engaged in farming with one of his brothers and devotes his spare time to training in the Stecher Bros. wrestling camp.
Mrs. Emil Tomes, her son, Louis, and daughter, Elsie, and little nephew were passengers to Omaha this morning for a brief visit with relatives.
While in Omaha on business last Thursday, C. M. Janecek and Cress Applegate left the former’s National car parked at the curb on Howard street and after dinner, when they went for the car, it was missing. Search in the neighborhood failed to reveal anything and the loss was reported to the police department.
The following day the car was located by an officer in the vicinity of Florence, stripped of all removable parts and then set on fire. The wreckage was towed to a nearby garage and adjustment between Mr. Janecek and the insurance company was made Monday.John Chleboun, Sr., made a trip to Howells, where he looked after personal matters.
Hans Arps purchased the Louis Wagner bankrupt stock of groceries in the Wells building east of the Schuyler State Bank.
Mrs. Adolph Severyn and children left for Hudson, S.D., their new home. Mr. Severyn farmed in the vicinity of Leigh but recently moved his personal effects to South Dakota, where he will follow cattle ranching.
Because of a difference which has been existing between Contractor Stake and the architect and Board of Commissioners, but little toward the completion of the courthouse in Schuyler has been performed during the past few weeks.
The Commissioners and County Attorney held a session at Lincoln last week with the contractor and the architect, in an effort to arrive at an understanding so that the work of completion could be started. The misunderstanding appears to arise over the problem of arriving at estimates. The Board and architect believe that the contractor has had all that is due him up to this time, and Mr. Stake arrives at his conclusions from another source, and holds that he should be given more money.
Some changes were made in the plans which called for extras, and it is over this that the contention arises.
Mr. Stake has promised that he will verify his statements and that he will complete the building within the next few weeks. The linoleum is now being laid and as soon as this is accomplished, the marble workers will be able to complete their part of the work, and the building is then ready for the mill work.Prazak Motor Co. had a quarter page ad in The Press, advertising Ford products as follows:
Runabout......$319.00
Touring......$348.00
Sedan......$645.00
Coupe......$580.00
Chassis......$285.00
Truck......$430.00
Tractor......$395.00
F.O.B. DetroitA. J. Karel & Sons store in Clarkson advertised mens Rothschild Longley Hats at $2.75 to $5.00.
Joseph Husak of Stanton county, purchased the new residence property of L. J. Zimola, located on South Platte street in Schuyler, the consideration being $5,800. Mr. Zimola built the place for a home two years ago.
Mrs. E. A. Hashberger, a pioneer resident of Schuyler, passed away Saturday afternoon at the home of her son, B. C. Hashberger of Mt. Morrison, Colo. Mrs. Hashberger left Schuyler last November for a visit at the home of her son, Frank Hashberger, who resides at Bassett, Nebr.
She had been in ill health for some time prior to going to Bassett. About three weeks ago she went to Colorado in hopes of improving her health. Her death was due to a stroke of apoplexy.
April 6, 1922 - reprinted July 17, 1991A meeting of the Colfax County Fair Association was held in Leigh at the town hall Tuesday evening. A number of matters of importance were discussed. The officials announced that the old ball grounds had been leased from Baltz Heitz for fair grounds.
These grounds are only 4 blocks from Main Street and would make a fine location for the fair. The question of properly financing the undertaking was discussed and this matter will be taken up in the near future, so as to insure the success for the undertaking that it deserves.Wedding bells at St. John’s church rang merrily Wednesday afternoon for the marriage of Miss Anna Petersen and George Hamann. The marriage lines were read by Rev. Koolen in the presence of a large crowd of friends and relatives.
The young couple took their places at the altar and were attended by Misses Emma Petersen and Emma Hamann as bridesmaids and Messrs. Otto Hamann and George Petersen as best men. Little Meta Petersen acted as ring bearer.
The price for Chesterfield cigarettes was 20 for 18 cents, 10 for 9 cents, vacuum tins for 50 cents and 45 cents.
April 13, 1922 - reprinted July 3, 1991The municipal power plant at Clarkson was out of commission all day Tuesday, owing to the heavy damage of wire lines resulting from the rain and snow storm passing over this part of the country on Monday.
Telephone and electrical lines suffered intensely from the heavy sleet and violent wind which raged all day Monday and continued until the next day.
Many poles had been forced to the ground and the wires badly mangled as if passing through a cyclone. Telephone and telegraph communications was interrupted altogether since the storm and the town would have been isolated from the rest of the world had it not been for the number of radio-phones we have in Clarkson which kept us in touch with what was going on in the country.
Several parties of workmen were out all day Tuesday repairing the broken electric lines and service was resumed at the city plant in the evening. The Northwestern Telephone Co. lost a large number of poles, both, in town and the country.
One-hundred-eighteen telephone poles were counted down between Howells and Clarlson. The loss of telephone poles between Snyder and Creston is placed at approximately 500, representing a damage of several thousand dollars.We are told that Robert Noh is at the home of his wife’s parents at Morse Bluff, resting for several days before submitting to an operation for appendicitis which he intends to undergo at Omaha in a few days.
Prazak Motor Co. sold three Fordson tractors complete with plowing attachments the past week, the lucky purchasers being Jaroslav Sedlacek, N. B. Balzer and Jos. Klamt of near Howells. They also sold a used Ford touring car to Cech bothers.
Messrs. A. C. Fajman and Jos. F. Jirovec had business at the state metropolis this week.
Adolph Dudycha, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Dudycha of this city, is enrolled in the Omaha Daily News subscription contest now in progress.
Adolph says he is out to win the Hudson Super-Six car offered as one of the prizes in the contest.Jos. J. Karnik, who has been connected with the grain and lumber business at Howells for a number of years, was appointed manager of the Crowell Lumber and Crain Co. in Clarkson to succeed Adolph Mrsny.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hejtmanek bid adieu to Clarkson and took their leave for Chicago, where they intend to make their future home.
They came here from Clinton, Iowa, about 12 years ago. Mr. Hejtmanek engaged in the harness business which he purchased from Jos. Jadrny.A telegram from Long Beach, Calif., brought the sad news that Ed. Daniell had departed this life at his home. Mr. Daniell had been in failing health for the past few years, being much worse the last six months. His condition had been critical for some time.
It is with regret that we chronicle this to our readers for Ed was a man endeared to the hearts of all by his pleasant and kindly manners.
Funeral services will be held at the Congregational church in Stanton.The following persons have made their declaration intentions to become citizens of the United States: Father Anton Folta of Heun, Rudolf Ondracek of Schuyler, Frank Steffel of Colfax county and Adam J. Mitrenger of Colfax county.
Rikus Rosendahl of Leigh, Thomas Valish of Schuyler and Frank Navratil of Schuyler, have filed petitions for naturalization.Clarkson Markets: Wheat $1.10, Oats 25c-27c, Corn 38c-40c, Rye 70c, Hogs $9.80, Butter 15c, Eggs 18c.
Following is a list of jurors drawn for the April, 1922 term of district court of Colfax County: Fred Bott, Matt Eller, Hans E. Arps, James Hamsa, Emil Severyn, Adolph Dlouhy, Clyde Karel, Frank J. Coufal, John Beran, C. C. Gilbert, James Dlouhy, Joe Blecha.
J. S. Hubenka, W. P. E. Kluck, Wm. A. Foust, Edw. Guyman, Frank Dowd, Jos. Kovarik, Harold Edgar, Ludwig Asche, C. C. Applegate, T. W. Coleman, Vaclav Jonas and George Fidler.John Petr, Sr. and his granddaughter, Miss Agnes Vraspir, arrived here from California, where they spent several months visiting and touring the golden state.
They speak of a most pleasant sojourn, spending the major part of their trip at the home of Dr. Frank J. Petr at Oakland, Calif., where the doctor is enjoying a lucrative practice. They spent the winter months amidst the flowers and sunshine where the balmy breezes of the Pacific gently blow.
While out west they met a number of Nebraska people spending the winter in California.Mr. and Mrs. Ben Jonas greeted a fine baby girl at their home south of town last week. It was needless to say that the happy parents are rejoicing over the little Miss.
One day this week W. J. Moore was engaged in butchering a hog and while in the act of cutting it down from its support, the knife slipped and severely lacerated three of his fingers on the left hand.
Dr. Knight was at once called who found it necessary to make several stitches on each finger in bringing the wound together. This injury, however, did not keep Mr. Moore from attending to his duties at the store and his many customers will find him back of the counter as usual ready to serve them.Blahoslav Novotny went to Omaha where he remained for a few days attending to business matters.
April 13, 1922 - reprinted July 10, 1991Clarkson School Notes, by Lillian Benes, reporter, were as follows:
You Can Tell
Dusty by his height.
James Hampl by his hair.
Irene by her ability.
Joe Kutin by his talk.
Emma by her playing.
Elinor Noh by her voice.
Adolf Karel by his whiskers.
Lawrence Teply by his writing.
Mary Zak by her popularity.
Emil by his noise.
Lillian Brabec by her beau.
Gilbert by his giggle.
Erma by her walk.
Lucy by her smile.
Alton by his pedal extremities.A popular song in school:
How dear to our hearts is our fine High School building
That used to be large when the pupils were few—
But now, the assembly, the o’er crowded class rooms
Quite forcibly tell us we need something new.
Now, patrons of Clarkson
Please heed our petition.
Please give us more room — for we’re quite in despair.
We need a new building
And modern equipment —
To crowd us so sadly is really not fair.Jos. Pimper, Sr., who is making his home with his son, John at Clarkson, was in Howells visiting his daughter, Mrs. Charles Kriz and son, Frank.
A. H. Mestl of the firm of Mestl Bros., went to Omaha where he selected goods for their large hardware, furniture and implement store which is ever filled with up-to-date goods at the lowest possible prices. The firm at Howells enjoys a large volume of business including trade from a far distance.
Mrs. Anna Karel of Howells spent several days in Clarkson at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Frank Vidlak and her family.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hajek of Howells were called to Hay Springs, this state, on account of the death of Mr. Hajek’s cousin.
Delegates attending the millinery class at the Grandview Hall were Miss Agnes Jonas of Clarkson, Mrs. Henry Jonas of Schuyler, Mrs. W. C. Stone, Mrs. Bart McIntosh of Schuyler, Mrs. Edward Guyman, Miss Margaret Costello and Mrs. Jack Killian of Rogers.
These women made or remodeled in all 14 hats, none of which cost over $3.05. The actual cost of these 14 hats. being $19.41 while their estimated value if purchased ready made would have been $85.00, a saving of $65.59.Two cars of steers averaging 1,463 pounds were brought to the Omaha market by James Kmoch of Leigh, who received $8 a hundred, which was the high mark of the day for cattle of that weight.
Mr. Kmoch said, "Most of the cattle around Leigh had been shipped and there is a large surplus of corn in my section, but it seems there are not many farmers that want to finish out their steers.
A large percentage of the cattle around Leigh were shipped back to market after being on feed a comparatively short time." —The Omaha Bee.Tuesday was election day in Pilger and the voters of the town came out in masses, as there was something of interest to vote upon.
The total number of persons voting was 249, the largest number ever casting votes at a village election in the history of Pilger.
The big fight was on the Sunday closing ordinance which affected stores, garages, oil stations, confecionerys, etc. Also whether we shall save Sunday baseball in Pilger or not.
The Sunday closing ordinance was defeated by the vote of 166 to 56, a good number not casting ballots for or against. There were 141 ballots cast for Sunday baseball and 40 against. — Pilger Herald.Platte County Assessor Shell Clark doesn’t agree with the state tax board in the matter of taxing automobiles this year. He recently received a suggestion from the board that precinct assessors be instructed to assess automobiles in 1922 at 15% below cost; in 1921 at 30% off; in 1920, at 50% off, in 1919, at 79% off, and older models at whatever their present value may be in the estimate of the assessor.
Mr. Clark says that if the assessor followed the rule they would be assessing some automobiles bought in 1921 at higher figures than the cars could be purchased for in 1922, because a lot of them have dropped in price more than 15%.
He has instructed Platte county precinct assessors to ignore the recommendation and assess each individual car on the basis of what he honestly believes the owner could get for it on the market today.Clarkson Markets: Hogs $9.60, Cattle $7.50, Corn 41c, Wheat $1.12, Oats 28c, Poultry 20c, Eggs 19c.
Mr. and Mrs. Jake Ritzdorf, residing in Maple Creek precinct were made the proud parents of a baby boy last Friday.
Last Monday morning, Mrs. Mary Karel, accompanied by her son, James, Dr. Hebenstreit and Filbert Wacha of Clarkson, went to Omaha where she will remain for some time at St. Catherine’s hospital receiving treatment. They made the trip in Mr. Wacha’s car, returning home late Monday night during the sleet storm.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Baumert are the proud parents of a bouncing baby boy. Mrs. Baumert has been in a serious condition for several days this week, but Dr. Hebbenstriet, the family physician, reports her out of danger. It being their first-born, Henry naturally steps around a little lively.
The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Cernin underwent a surgical operation in Schuyler. Reports are that she is well on her road to recovery.
The east-bound freight train ran over and killed a two-year-old heifer belonging to Jos. E. Prchal west of town. Owing to the poor condition of the cattle guard near the Prchal farm, the animal strayed onto the railroad company's property where it was killed.
Henry Stangel was taken to Omaha for medical treatment. He was seriously hurt while playing ball but we expect to see him back in Howells in a few days.
Since our last report the following prominent farmers and feeders from near Howells were on the market with livestock: Henry Ridder, L. Vondruska, Jas. R. Kucera, Martin Rennemeyer, Henry Schlautman, Anton Telecky, Ed. Jonas, John Fuchs, Frank Hader, Henry Eusterwiemann and sons, Ben Clatanoff, Henry Renner, Jr., John B. Schmidt and the Farmers Lumber & Grain Co., had a load or two on the market each day.
April 13, 1922 - reprinted July 24, 1991Rudolph Simunek was a Howells caller Tuesday.
Postmaster Koza has now in his hands about 12 applicants intending to take examinations on route three, branching from the local post office.
Phil Roether conducted his first market sale Saturday afternoon with abundant success. A large crowd of buyers was present at the sale and most of the articles offered brought reasonable prices.
City Electrician Kolarik had been absent from the city for several days this week, having gone to Crete to attend the funeral of his father-in-law, John Spirk.
Mr. Spirk was a pioneer of Saline county and lived to attain the age of 60 years. Owing to the illness of their son, Mrs. Kolarik was unable to accompany her husband on the sad mission.Mrs. Louis Hanel left for Bristow, where she was called on account of the serious illness of her father.
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Mohnsen has been suffering with a siege of pneumonia the past few days but at this writing the attention given her by Dr. Knight is recovering very nicely.
Miss Mary Bukacek went to Omaha to select additional stock for Mrs. Misek’s millinery store.
Car and tractor sales at the Fajman Motor Company’s garage continue to mount by heaps. In addition to the list of tractors buyers published last week, several more sales were closed.
They sold a used Republic truck to the Fremont Construction Co., a second hand Heider tractor to John Tichota of Howells, an Overland "1" to J. F. Wacha, a used Kissel truck to E. J. Polcin, New Nash "6" to Emma Navrkal and J. W. Knipping, new Nash "4" to J. D. Wolf, used Fordson and plows to William Kayen of Fremont, and used Cadillac truck to Glen P. Beart.
Overland "4" touring car to A. H. Wieboll of Leigh, second-hand Chevrolet car to Stash Slama, second-hand Ford Coupe to O. G. Smersh of Schuyler, Overland "4" sedan to Rudolf Lodl of Howells and a Republic truck to Leigh Independent Oil Co.
Since last week’s report, they sold three new Wallis Cub tractors. This certainly is a wonderful record and we hope it keeps up for some time.We again wish to call the attention of all those indebted to us on book account to come and make immediate settlement.
This positively is the last notice we will offer as all unpaid accounts will be placed for collection after April 15. Please attend to this matter at once as we are desirous of closing up our affairs. This notice applies to one and all. -Wolf & Vitek, Clarkson, Nebr."Nothing But the Truth," a comedy in three acts (A Royalty Play,) will be presented by the American Legion, Vitek Post 188 and the Woman’s Auxiliary on Sunday, April 23 at the Clarkson Opera House.
Cast of Characters include Richard Karel, Frank Vidlak, Clyde Karel, George Humlicek, A. J. O’Brien, Mrs. W. A. Karel, Olga Folda, Mrs. Oscar Hahn, Martha Bukacek and Mrs. Frank Vidlak.Misek brothers, Albin and Rudolph, young farmers residing in the north end of the county, have filed petitions in voluntary bankruptcy.
The young men purchased a half section of land two years ago, 160 acres in Stanton county, and 160 acres in Madison county, assuming a mortgage of $22,000 on the former, and $11,000 on the latter.
In addition they gave $16,500 in cash, and a second mortgage of $15,000, making a total purchase price on the half section of $64,500. The young men were unable to raise the money to pay the full interest charges, because they could not realize on notes which were then due them.
Foreclosure proceedings followed and one quarter was sold for $20,000, incurring a loss to the brothers of $12,250, besides the interest which was then due.
To avoid further sacrifices and deficiency judgments the young men filed their petitions, believing that they could thus delay final proceedings for a year, when real estate will bring more ready cash.Mrs. Frances Gloser of Leigh, this week filed a petition in district court asking a divorce from her husband, alleging cruelty and habitual drunkeness. They have a six-year-old son and Mrs. Gloser asks for the custody of the child, and a settlement of property interests.
Mrs. Adolph Mrsny. who was shot five times by her husband at Randolph a week ago Monday, was not killed as reported in the Schuyler Sun last week and has made some improvement. She is not yet out of danger, however. Mrs. Mrsny is in a hospital at Sioux City.
Mr. Mrsny is recovering and is in charge of the Cedar county official. Should Mrs. Mrsny recover, charges of attempted murder will be filed against him. Relatives of Mr. Mrsny were in Schuyler last week and employed George W. Wertz to handle his case.The Schuyler city election last Tuesday brought one of the largest votes in the history of the city, 717 votes being polled.
The contest started when the republican nomination for mayor was captured by Henry Smith, who has never before been known in the political game in Schuyler. Because of the few who gathered at the caucus, the nomination was perfectly regular in every respect, but the followings of Mr. Smith were suspected of having something up the sleeve, and this was further advanced when on Tuesday morning dodgers were left at almost every home in the city advocating the election of Smith.
When this was circulated, the political mixers of the city got busy and the large vote resulted.Prazak Motor Co., Clarkson and Howells had a quarter page ad in The Colfax County Press advertising Ford cars, trucks and tractors. The prices in the ad were as follows:
Runabout...... $319.00
Touring...... $348.00
Sedan...... $645.00
Coupe...... $580.00
Chassis...... $285.00
Truck...... $430.00
Tractor...... $395.00On complaint of his wife, Steven Gloser of Leigh, was arrested for disturbing the peace. He appeared before Judge Broger, and asked for a change in venue, but this was not granted until they had carted the defendant down to Schuyler and kept him overnight. He is now out on bond to appear before Judge Pokorny at Clarkson on April 14.
The village and school election at Leigh was marked with much interest and the vote was the largest polled for many years. The vote, of course, was swelled by the addition of a large number of women who exercised their newly acquired franchise.
Sixty-three women cast their vote in Tuesday’s election.
For members of the school board there were 211 votes cast, and the result was as follows: George Sander l83, Fred Rabeler Jr. 150, C. D. Eby 50, W. W. Bates 58, H. C. Mason 1. From the above figures it will be seen that Messrs. Sander and Rabeler have been elected as members of the school board for a term of three years.
For members of the village board of trustees 194 votes were cast, which were distributed as follows: F. L. Vlach 83, Thomas Mortimer 180, A. A. Aukerman 123, Gus Hahn 1. This elects Messrs. Mortimer and Aukerman as members of the village board to succeed Messrs. Vlach and Kibler.
April 13, 1922 - reprinted July 31, 1991Miss Bertha Luxa came up from Howells for a visit at the home of her sister, Mrs. Frank Benes.
Misses Libbie Novotny and Martha Bukacek spent the weekend in Omaha.
County Assessor Harry McNally of Rogers was up in the north end of the county calling on precinct assessors and giving them further instructions for the annual round-up.
A Grand Bazaar will be held under the auspices of the J.C.D. Ladies’ Lodge of Clarkson at the Opera House in Clarkson on Friday, April 14, 1922, beginning at 2 p.m.
The afternoon will be devoted to the sale of fancy hand work and all other articles donated for this purpose. Lunch will be sold all afternoon.
The Fish Pond and Grab Bag will have good bargains.Karel & Sons had a large ad in The Colfax County Press advertising a full line of the Beau Brummel mens shirts.
April 20, 1922 - reprinted July 31, 1991News of the unexpected death of Mrs. Jos. Richtig, which occurred at Omaha reached here yesterday afternoon. Her death came as a great surprise as but few people here were aware of her confinement at the hospital.
She was taken to the city from Leigh on Tuesday of last week, where she submitted to an operation for appendicitis at the Nicholas Senn hospital. She rallied satisfactorily from the effects of the ordeal and was to be brought home by the end of this week.
Able to sit in a chair she expressed her delight in being able to leave the hospital soon and take her place in the family, where her return was awaited with no small degree of anxiety.
As the convalescent sat in the chair and apparently rested easily, she suffered a light stroke of apoplexy. Falling into the arms of her nurse she was assisted to her bed, where the attack was repeated. Regaining consciousness, Mrs. Richtig pleaded to have her husband at her side to whom a telegram was at once dispatched, but owing to the delay of its delivery, Mr. Richtig was unable to reach her bedside in time to be with her before the final collapse. Death came between the hours of one and two o’clock Wednesday afternoon.
Mrs. Richtig, whose maiden name was Lilly Walla, was born in Stanton county, March 9, 1890, and spent her entire life in this community.
She was a pleasant woman endowed with an unassuming character and had been held in high regard by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Besides her heart-broken husband, she leaves two daughters, Lilly, 14 years of age, and Helen, who just passed her 7th milestone.
Outside of her family she is survived by four sisters and four brothers, all of whom reside in this community.
The remains were brought to Clarkson and burial will be held from the family home, northwest of Leigh, on Saturday forenoon with services in the Catholic church at Clarkson with burial in the cemetery adjoining town.The first nuptial event to have transpired in this locality after the Lenten season was the marriage of Miss Lucille Klimes and Anton A. Jedlicka. The auspicious affair occurred at the Heun church Tuesday forenoon and was witnessed by a large concourse of friends and relatives.
The bridal pair was attended by Misses Vlasta Klimes and Anna Jedlicka and Messrs. Henry Jedlicka and Jos. Klimes.
After the conclusion of the impressive rites, the happy bridal party and guests participated in a grand reception at the Klimes farm home, southeast of Clarkson.
The bride, who is a handsome and lovable young lady, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vaclav Klimes, pioneer residents of this precinct, and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Jedlicka, of Wilson precinct.
The newly wedded pair will establish their home on a farm 7 miles north of Schuyler.Adolph Mrsny, who had been held in custody at Hartington since the recent shooting affray at Randolph, was taken to Norfolk and placed in the state hospital by Attorney Sadliek, who was sworn in as deputy sheriff on that account.
A hearing was held at Hartington which was also attended by Attorneys Sadilek and George Wertz of Schuyler, Jos. R. Vitek, Peter Hajek and Adolph Zabka, representatives of both sides.
It was deemed best to follow the short course and take Mr. Mrsny to the asylum. He will occupy the same ward as his brother, Emil, who was interned there several weeks ago.The International Harvester Co. had two salesmen in Clarkson demonstrating an elegant auto fire truck in the purchase of which they were interested in the Clarkson fire department.
The truck is equipped with a complete set of various fire-fighting apparatus and sells for about $3,700.00.
One of the tests the truck was put to was climbing hills which is one of the main obstacles a heavily loaded fire truck must contend with especially in muddy roads.
Clarkson has one of the finest little fire trucks to be found in the average country town but is a trifle too light for a hilly country.
The fire boys plan to purchase a larger truck for this reason and intend to use the present rig for carrying chemical receptacles and other lighter fire-fighting equipment. The committee empowered to do the buying of the new truck deferred its decision to a later date, pending word from several other manufacturers.For the fifth time in the last four months, the Clarkson Cafe has changed owners. Adolph Nebola sold his interest in the business to Andrew Necas, who will manage the place with Frank Hubacek.
Mrs. Necas will look after the kitchen while her husband will keep on at his painting trade, helping out at the cafe after working hours.
Mr. Nebola disliked the business after trying it out for a month.Fajman Motor Co. has added the celebrated Maxwell line of automobiles in addition to their Nash and Overland agency.
They have on exhibit one of the late types of the Maxwell touring car with steel wheels. It is a classy little car and presents a very attractive design.F. B. Schultz torn [sic] down the old barn he had in his back yard and is replacing the structure with a good-sized garage. Lada Hanel is doing the work.
Clarkson Markets were: Wheat $1.20, Oats 26c-28c, Corn 40c-42c, Rye 75c, Hogs $9.50, Butter 15c, Eggs 20c.
April 20, 1922 - reprinted August 7, 1991The mortal remains of Mrs. Marie Fiala, wife of our pioneer and respected citizen, Jos. Fiala of Howells, and who passed away at the state hospital in Hastings, arrived in Howells yesterday afternoon. The deceased was one of the unfortunate ones in this world and during the past 26 years it was necessary for her to spend her life at Norfolk and at Hastings. At the former place she remained for a period of six years and after the destruction of the state hospital there, she was removed to Hastings where she remained a patient until rescued from the miseries of her life by death.
Marie Fiala, whose maiden name was Marie Holoubek, was born in the hamlet of Fridnava, Bohemia, on the 8th of June, 1852. In 1876 she immigrated with her husband and family to this country of plenty, coming direct to Colfax county and locating on a homestead on Dry Creek.
Later they moved on a farm southwest of Howells, where she made her home until taken to the hospital.
She is survived by her husband and four sons, namely, Joseph of Goodnight, Okla.; Frank of Greeley, Colo.; Anton, attending university in Chicago and Rudolf, of this state. Mrs. Antonia Kudera, the only daughter, proceeded her mother to the Great Beyond about a year ago.
The funeral will be held from the home of her son, Rudolf and interment will be made in the Bohemian National cemetery west of Howells. The obsequies were in charge of Rev. Jos. Havlik, pastor of the Zion church.James Drahota, manager of the Farmers’ Lumber & Grain Co., Howells, reports the sale of lumber to Henry Dirkschneider for the erection of a complete set of buildings on his farm. Albin Zastera is also hauling out material for the erection of a good-sized addition to his farm home, west of Howells.
Over at the Jos. Bayer home, Howells, they are rejoicing over the arrival of a baby boy. Dr. Hebenstriet is looking after the welfare of the new citizen.
Mrs. Anna Bohaty, who had been visiting at the home of her sister, Mrs. Thos. Kovar and family at Howells, the past three weeks, left for Bellwood, where she intends to visit with relatives until the middle part of May, when she will return to her home in San Francisco, Calif.
Miss Julia Balak, who is employed in Omaha in one of the leading millinery stores, spent the Easter holidays with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Vencil Balak at Howells.
William Kasper has rented the Kunhart building east of Palik’s store in Howells, where he will start buying cream and eggs.
Henry P. Muller, who has been in Danvers, Mont., for several weeks, returned to his home in Howells. He brings home the glad news, that Mr. Vacha, whom he went down to visit, has sufficiently recovered from his illness as to be out of danger.
Recent rains left most of the roads in a somewhat rough condition but in many cases our dutiful overseers are getting them into fine shape.
The roads leading south of Howells are being dragged and are generally in as good shape as can be expected. The roads north still require a lot of work as they were not so far along with them before the rains came.
The road leading to Clarkson is getting better but is quite chucky and rough. The highway to Schuyler shows that the man who has charge of it, gets busy at every opportunity. Holes are filled and rough places smoothened off so that the road is in very good shape for this time of the year.Supt. E. A. Schmid of West Point light and water departments had his workmen busy the fore part of the week removing the heavy cables and electric wires of the old light plant from Main Street in West Point.
A few of the poles which were rotted off at the base have been let down and the others are being sawed off and taken away. The removal of the cables and many wires along Main Street and the wires which crossed the street to business houses, gives this part of the city a much better appearance.
The cables and wires carrying the electric current from the new light plant take their courses down the alleys, and thus add to the nicer appearance along the open streets of West Point.As we went to press, we learned that a transaction had just been closed whereby John Clatanoff and J. A. Ritter had sold their two-thirds interests in the hardware store to their partner, H. S. Parsons and F. J. Brazda of West Point. Mr. Brazda will continue as traveling salesman but will be in the store at the close of the week. His son-in-law, Carl Miller, will clerk in the store, commencing work today.
According to The Lindsay Post, they were biting fine Sunday until a game warden asked for credentials of four local young men who took advantage of the fine spring weather to follow in the footsteps [of?] Isaac Walton. Jack Freschauf, Joe Hoffman, Ray Rausch and Jerome Connelly neglected to provide themselves with a license as required by the laws of our great and soverign state.
They were enjoying the afternoon fishing on the river when a stranger joined them and proceeded to cast his bait among the waters. After he had apparently tired of the sport, he asked to see the boys’ licenses. The quartette paid fines of $15.00 and costs each at Genoa Sunday night.Says Land Prices Slump Act of God
In the due course of time the supreme court of Nebraska will pass upon the question of whether the slump in land prices in the state that came suddenly in 1920 was an act at God, and being an unavoidable calamity it should release John C. Byrnes of Columbus from the necessity of paying $265 an acre for Polk county land. Mr. Byrnes Is a real estate man who was one time state chairman for the democrats, and, therefore he makes no claim that a democratic national administration was responsible.
Mr. Byrnes read an advertisement that the Kummer estate of 300 acres six miles south of Columbus, was to be sold at public sale by the executors. He went over and he says that upon the assurance of Otto Kummer that a merchantable title would be given, he bid the land in at $265 an acre, or $76,373. Of this sum he paid $11,456 down. Within 69 days came the big slump in land values, and the land now is not valued at more than two-thirds of what Mr. Byrnes paid for it.
When his lawyer got hold of the abstract of title he shot a few holes in it, and it was not until last May that these were all fixed up. About that time Mr. Byrnes filed an application to be relieved of the payment of the remainder of the purchase money and to get back what he had paid. He had several reasons. One was that a merchantable title was not given until after land values had gone down, another was that the Kummers had employed puffers and by-bidders who were there for the purpose of running up the price on him, and would not have been able to buy if he had not outbid.
The most interesting reason was that the slump in land values was so sudden, unexpected and impossible to forecast that it amounted to an act of God, and that it would be unjust, inequitable and unconscionable to require him to complete his bargain.
The Kummers denied the presence of others than bona-fide bidders, and they insist that John C. should not blame his wrong judgement of the future upon Providence. The lower court held with him, and Byrnes has appealed to the supreme court for relief.--Lincoln Journal
April 20, 1922 - reprinted August 14, 1991Messrs. E. J. Pokorny of this city and his brother, Jerry, of Schuyler, have secured possession of the site occupied by the old Jetter beer vault and within the next few days will commence the erection of an independent gasoline and oil station.
The tanks and other equipment is due here any day. We understand L. J. Polcin will serve in the capacity of local manager and distributor.Our friend, Filbert J. Wacha, received a commission from Governor McKelvie, appointing him notary public. From now on, Filbert’s official signàture will have a meaning above the ordinary.
Attractions and amusements of almost every description will be plentiful in Clarkson this spring.
Frank Filex, one of the leading Bohemians of Omaha, was in Clarkson last Sunday and made arrangements for the presentation of a play in the Czechoslovak language in Clarkson on April 29.James R. Dudycha & Son, local building firm, completed a large cement block chicken coop at the Albert Hoff farm and also laid the foundation for a good-sized house for Jerry Kudera in Wilson precinct.
Many added conveniences and refinements are to be seen in the Ford enclosed cars now being displayed by the Prazak Motor Company.
The interior of both the coupe and the sedan is now finished in an attractive shade of walnut brown broadcloth; and the seats are upholstered with a similar material threaded with chalked ebony-stripe.
Heavy floor rugs gripe and added a touch of comfort. Lifts, of a special design, minimize the effort of raising or lowering the windows.
Door bumpers insure a tighter fitting, and new door grips, both inside and out, add to the rider’s convenience.
The demand for Ford enclosed cars has been unusually high during the past two months.The ladies of the J.C.D. lodge have reason to feel proud over the success they achieved at their bazaar Friday afternoon. A large crowd attended. A large hand-made quilt was given away during the bazaar, the lucky winner being Mrs. Jos. Krofta, Sr. Approximately $400 was realized by the lodge.
Ernest Hamsa is building a two-room addition to his home west of the city power plant. When completed the residence will present a very neat appearance.
A Social Dance will be held April 23 at Heun. Music will be furnished by the Svoboda orchestra and refreshments and lunch will be plentiful.
The Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. has a large gang of linemen working out of Clarkson, repairing the demolished telephone lines in and around Clarkson, caused by last week’s snow and wind storm.
Sylvia Cada, teacher, has announced a May-Day Program and Dance to be held at School District # 47 (The Heun School) on Saturday evening, April 22 at the Heun Hall. Admission for the program and dance, 50c and 25c.
The many friends of John Broz will be pleased to learn that he will graduate from Creighton Medical College the latter part of next month. Immediately after graduation, he will enter St. Joseph hospital as one of the interns.
According to the Pilger Herald, the members of the school board at Pilger held a meeting and asked R. E. Green to hand in his resignation as superintendent of the schools.
A number of the school boys had put in the complaint to the board, stating that he had been committing a practice upon them that was quite offensive and strictly not in accordance with the laws of the state of Nebraska.
After a good number of the boys had been questioned on the subject, and as they all gave the same story, the board went to the schoolhouse to dismiss Green. In the meantime Sheriff Best was phoned to come and get Green, who was placed in the county jail in Stanton.
The preliminary hearing was held before Judge Dern and Green pled not guilty of the charge made against him. The Judge set his bonds at $1,000, which were secured and he left for his home at Dill, this state, to await the trial in District Court, which was set for April 14.
This affair caused quite a commotion among all, especially those who had children in the school. All of us had held Mr. Green on a high pedestal and considered him a gentleman in every respect, and all were shocked when they heard the bitter piece of news.
Mr. Green came to Pilger last fall when our school had been run down about as low as it could be. After he took charge of affairs, everything came along fine and he was getting the school in mighty good standing. He had created much interest among the parents and the school, and was forever putting on some form of entertainment or functions which was of benefit to the school and community.
We feel deeply sorry that this affair has put a stop to his helping our school, and we are sorry that it all happened, but we are glad the boys brought the facts to light as soon as they did, and before more wrong was inflicted upon the youth or our town and community. We only wish it had not happened at all, for we liked Green and thought him a gentleman in every respect.Mrs. Mike Bartes passed away at the family residence at an early hour Thursday morning after a prolonged illness due to an abdominal cancer. The remains were taken to Bechyn, Minn., this Thursday afternoon for burial. The deceased was 67 years of age.
A little son was born Saturday to Mr. and Mrs. Amos Miller of Schuyler.
Mrs. Lucy Francis, a resident of Colfax county and of Schuyler since 1880, passed away Sunday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. M. McCormick, after an illness of but a few days due to ailments attendant to old age. Mrs. Francis had made her home with her daughter for the past 20 years.
The spring term of district court will convene on April 24, with Judge Post of Columbus, presiding.
The docket contains 86 cases, many of which have been carried for the past several years, and are still being carried because of non-payment of costs.
Numerous new cases have been filed and the docket is now the largest in many years. The depression has caused collections to be forced, and these form a considerable number of cases.Because of the unreasonable delay on the part of Contractor Stake, as it appears to the board, a special session was held and a resolution asking for prompt action toward the completion of the new courthouse was passed and copies will be sent the contractor and the architect.
For the past several weeks the commissioners and the architect have been endeavoring to get a settlement of a misunderstanding with the contractor. The figures and reports asked for have not been forthcoming, and the board has repeatedly refused to grant the contractor any more money, although he has consistently claimed that he has money still due him.
Until the contractor finishes the reports asked for, a settlement is impossible.J. R. Vitek & Bros. advertised an International 8-16 two-plow tractor that pulls two plows and then some, for only $670 F.O.B. Chicago.
April 20, 1922 - reprinted August 21, 1991The History of Clarkson, written by R. F. Rosicky, editor of "My Golden School Days," published by The Class of 1920, C.H.S. is as follows:
In the State of Nebraska, Colfax county, is located the village of Clarkson with all its sweet music tones, geographical features, and all that marks skill and attributions. The people who inhabit this village, and view the surrounding territory, and the splendor of Mother Nature’s artists are placid with incessant daily labors that they have to perform.
In this onward growing village is located the educational institution from which the 18 graduates received most or at least part of their thorough education. Most of these intelligent and industrious young men and women were born and reared in Clarkson or vicinity.
When the village was planned no pioneer soul would have ever imagined that the village would prosper as it did.
We, citizens of Clarkson, can be proud of the present school,as a school with a harmonious force of teachers and students is the "uplifter" of each and every town, city and state.
The history of Clarkson is interestng. About 35 years ago, a branch of the Fremont Elkhorn and Missouri Valley railroad was built through the north of Colfax county. A small village immediately sprang up which was named Clarkson.
More than 35 years ago the country between the Platte and Elkhorn rivers was dotted with farms. The distance between these two rivers is about 40 miles. The chief market towns of the farmers residing between the rivers were Schuyler, county seat of Colfax county, on the Platte river, and Stanton, county seat of Stanton county, on the Elkhorn river. The farmers in this vicinity suffered many inconveniences because of the distance to the towns. The necessity of a village in the near neighborhood was felt. A little trading station sprung up which was situated 1 1/2 miles southeast of the present site of Clarkson.
A little later a branch of the railroad was built through this place and the original Clarkson post office was moved to the present site. Plans for the laying out of a town were made. The town was named in honor of Mr. Clarkson of Schuyler, who donated $100 into the treasury of the newly incorporated village.
The village of that time consisted of a few wooden business places and dwelling houses. The first school building consisted of one room. During the first 12 years, Clarkson remained in an unprogressive state. In 1898 it began to progress rather rapidly. A flour mill was erected that year. The school building was enlarged to three rooms and later, a new four-room schoolhouse was constructed.
During the year 1904 a water plant was constructed for the conveyance of water about the town. A cement block factory was started and had remarkable success. In 1908 a municipal light plant had been built. Cement and brick buildings replaced the wooden structures. Modern dwelling houses were then built with wonderful rapidity. From time to time many new businesses were started.
The Never-Break Pole Co. started business in 1991 [sic], distributing its celebrated poles throughout the west. In 1913 its wonderful success ceased and now the building is used for an automobile garage.
In 1912, Clarkson was greatly strengthened by the erection of a new $20,000 brick school building. The structure contains all modern conveniences for the school pupil from the primary grade to the senior class. Again in 1915, a new opera house was constructed. It is one of the best buildings of its kind in this state.
In the spring and summer of 1919, our little city made its greatest advancement in the last decade when a new power house and farmers’ elevator were built. The power house is an elegant structure with up-to-date machinery. We now have 18-hour service.
The elevator belonging to the Farmers' Union Co-operative Supply Co. is the tallest building in Clarkson, being a 108 feet high and capable of holding 45,000 bushels of grain.
During war time Clarkson always went "over the top" in its required quota of Liberty bonds, W.S.S., Red Cross work, etc.
Especially is it worthy of notice that the Clarkson people are hustlers as two Hudson and one Essex automobiles have been won by Clarkson men in the last four years for selling the "Omaha Daily News" thus helping place Clarkson on the map.
There are two newspapers published in Clarkson. They are "The Colfax County Press" and "Domaci Noviny."
Clarkson has a population of about 1,000 inhabitants almost all of which are of Bohemian descent. The peaceful town of Clarkson will continue to prosper because of its energetic citizens and will in due time grow to be a city of at least 1,500 population.The appeal of the heirs of Chauncy Abbott to the supreme court in an effort to save a part of their inheritance from being alienated was successful. The supreme court ordered the district court to take such steps as are necessary to declare a trust.
The name of N. W. Wells is familiar to most of the readers, how he came to be interested in real estate in Colfax county.
Upon the death of his father, his uncles were trustees of the property left to the said N. W. Wells. A part of it was invested in lands in then Platte county, now Colfax, and situated north of Schuyler, familiarly known as the Fuller ranch and the farms owned by Frank Krivohlavek, Donald McLeod estate, Vaclav Novak and John Jonas.
Portions of the land were sold before Mr. Wells died, and upon his death, Nov. 10, 1909, Mrs. Wells sold the remainder, about 1,000 acres, to Gerald Ehrenberger, who in turn resold the property to others.
Mr. Wells died in the east and left an estate variously estimated from $150,000 upwards, leaving the property to his wife, the section of the will states in the following language: "I give and bequeath unto my wife all the rest and residue of my estate, real, personal and mixed wheresoever the same may be located or found for and during the full term of her natural life, and the same to be her own individual property to use, enjoy and dispose of as to her shall seem fit. At the time of her decease, the principal of this bequest or what shall remain thereof shall be divided equally between my beloved mother, Anna D. Fuller and my said half-brother or their heirs."
Mrs. Wells married again and it was claimed that she had given most of this property to her husband. Mr. Wells’ mother was one of the heirs who was to share in the estate after the death of Mrs. Wells.
Mrs. Fuller died and Chauney Abbott and his heirs inherited. He also died and when his heirs got to looking up their estate, they found that Mrs. Wagner had given most of the estate left her to her husband, Mr. Wagner, as a gift. The Abbott heirs attempted to bring Mrs. Wells into court, but the supreme court declares this cannot be done, in this case, but that she is not a necessary party.
The supreme court holds that under the circumstances stated, a suit by the remaindermen, those who will inherit after the widow’s death, seeking to charge Wagner with being a constructive trustee of what was given to him may be maintained in any court in the state where he may be served, regardless of where the property is located.
The court says that Well’s widow had the right to use the property during her life, but she was without power to consume, deplete or encroach upon the body of the estate more than was sufficient to carry out her late husband’s purpose to provide for her comfort for her lifetime.
April 20, 1922 - reprinted August 28, 1991W. B. Anderson, history teacher in the Schuyler schools, has accepted a tender from Norfolk and will become a member of the teaching force for next year.
The Schuyler board raised the salary in his department to $1,700, hoping this would be an inducement to keep him on force but Norfolk raised the ante to $1,900, and Mr. Anderson accepted.The following delegation, composed of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vidlak, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Hahn, Mrs. W. A. Karel, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. O’Brien, Gus Fayman, Richard Karel, Clyde Karel, and Lada Hanel were at Pilger Friday evening attending the play, "Nothing But the Truth," given by the senior class of the Pilger public school.
Most of the members of the party take part in the same play to be presented here next Sunday night.Mrs. F. W. Noh went to Omaha to visit with her son, Robert, at the hospital.
Dr. Knight was called to dress a scalp wound for Vinc. Fendrych of Wilson precinct, who was kicked by a vicious horse. The horse reared up and with the foreleg cut a deep gash in Mr. Fendrych’s scalp. Several stitches were required to close up the wound.
From a letter received by local relatives, we learn that John Jonas, a former Clarkson boy, sold his real estate holdings near Sacramento, Calif., and is now living in the city, having received employment in a garage.
His holdings consisted of a well improved 40-acre tract for which he received $400.00 per acre.Richard Karel intends to commence the erection of a modern home on his lot in Rosicky’s addition. Lada Hanel has the contract for the carpenter work.
The site is already surveyed and the excavation of a basement is to start in a day or two. Indications are that a dozen new homes will be added to the residential district in Clarkson this summer.Miss Sylvia Cada, a teacher of the Heun school,is advertising an elaborate program at the Heun hall on April 29. A dance will follow the program.
Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Hejtmanek, living south of town, received a dandy baby boy at their home the other day, the same presented by Dr. Kavan.
Emil Petr is sporting around in a new Dodge touring car, purchased through the agency of Richtig Bros.
Miss Lillian Cakl, who is teaching school in Saunders county and her friend, James Pavlik, spent Easter at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Cakl at Howells.
F. J. Richtig, the business-getting automobile dealer of Clarkson, was seen on the streets of Howells several times during the past week, attending to matters in his line of business.
Father Joseph Bata of St. Mary’s parish in Schuyler, is planning to leave the first of next month for a visit at his old home in Bohemia. Elden Faltys and Bohumil B. Beran, both of Clarkson, have made applications for passports to visit in Bohemia. They plan to sail from New York on May 13 on the Olympic.
April 20, 1922 - reprinted September 4, 1991Emil J. Hakl, at one time helping out at the Howells State Bank for a few weeks, was in Howells looking after business and shaking hands of his many friends there. He is now located in Omaha where he is connected with an oil company and it is his work to locate towns suitable for establishing oil stations.
We understand that they have just about contracted to build one in Clarkson. Emil is a hustler, and is bound to meet with success.Anton Kunhart, James A. Drahota and E. Quesner of Howells motored over to Stanton on business.
Howells Markets: Hogs $9.25, Cattle $8.40, Corn 43c, Oats 27c, Wheat $1.10, Poultry 20c, Eggs 19c.
George W. Haun of Howells was a passenger to Kansas City, where he had gone to spend a brief visit with his wife and children and their families.
Miss Lillian Cakl, who is teaching school in Saunders county and her friend, James Pavlik, spent Easter at the home of the young lady’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Cakl at Howells.
This announcement appeared in a large ad in The Colfax County Press: Fr. J. Prucha of Howells, who for the past 20 years has been engaged in the funeral directors’ business and assisting other undertakers, has decided again to take full charge of the undertaking work. Attends to embalming as licensed embalmer. Auto Hearse, Caskets, Vaults and the best equipment funeral directors can furnish. All work done in first class, and satisfactory manner at reasonable charges.
“Nothing But the Truth,” a comedy in three acts, will be presented by the American Legion, Vitek Post 188 and the Woman’s Auxiliary on Sunday, April 23. The play will be held at the Clarkson Opera House.
Cast of characters include: Richard Karel, Frank Vidlak, Clyde Karel, George Humlicek, A. J. O’Brien, Mrs. A. J. O’Brien, Mrs. W. A. Karel, Olga Folda, Mrs. Oscar Hahn, Martha Bukacek and Mrs. Frank Vidlak.
Music between acts will be furnished by the Jirovec Orchestra.During the past few weeks, Robert Noh had been suffering with an attack of chronic appendicitis and on Friday it was necessary for him to undergo an operation at the Methodist hospital in Omaha.
The operation proved successful and now Robert is resting as well as can be expected under the circumstances.
His wife, and father, F. W. Noh, were vith him at his bedside during the performance of the ordeal. Robert makes his home at Scottsbtuff, where he is holding a lucrative bank position.Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda and Jos. Mundil and his mother made a motor trip to Linwood, where the Foldas boarded a train for Wilber to visit Mrs. Folda’s parents.
April 27, 1922 - reprinted September 5, 1991For a few days last week, Dr. Knight was a very busy man. Besides answering numerous minor calls, he was summoned to several local homes where he played the role of Dr. Stork.
He left bouncing baby boys at the home of Rev. and Mrs. Jos. Havlik and the home of John Shuster, west of Clarkson.Mrs. Adolph Mrsny, who was seriously wounded by her husband at Randolph several weeks ago, has thus far recovered enough to be able to leave the Sioux City hospital.
She was wounded with five shots fired from a 32-caliber revolver and it is remarkable that she recovered in the short time, although the first few days after the shooting her condition was such that hope for her recovery was abandoned.
Mrs. Mrsny and her two daughters are back at Randolph where they are conducting a restaurant and lunch house.Teaching in the Clarkson public school will cease for summer vacation on May 19. As usual three months will be allowed for the vacation and school will re-open on the first Monday in September.
Closing of our schools this year comes a week earlier than in former years on account of the fact that only a week’s vacation was given on Chriatmas.The following farmers of this community constituted the list of stock shippers through the local Farmers’ Shipping association since the last report: F. J. Brabec, car of cattle; Dick Vahle, car of hogs; John Drapela, car of cattle; Frank Hamsa, two cars of cattle; Vaclav Novak, two cars ofcattle;
James Severa, car of cattle; Frank Indra, car of hogs; Vaclav Severa and Frank Sindelar, car of cattle; Adolph and Jos. Jindra, car of cattle; Jos. Sindelar, Kvetensky and Sousek, car of cattle.
Besides the above shipments, there were six cars of mixed stock consigned to the market.A Grand Ball will be held at the Mrazek Hall at Wilson April 29. Music will be furnished by Hovorka’s Harmony Trio.
Jerry Krofta was taken to Schuyler last Sunday by Dr. Kavan, where he underwent an operation at the city hospital for appendicitis.
Jerry suffered an acute attack and deemed that it was the only proper thing for him to do.Bohumil Boubin, a young farmer residing north of Leigh and a former Clarkson boy, spent the past week near Winner, S. D., from where he returned in company of a fine young lady whom he introduces as his better half.
The marriage ceremony took place before the county judge at Winner on April 17, the happy bride being Miss Anna Rosa, whose parents are farming in that vicinity for a good many years. The newly wedded pair will establish their home on the Ed. Alberts farm, north of Leigh.
April 28, 1922 - reprinted September 18, 1991For the first time in several weeks, Miss Lottie Koci was able to be out after her illness. She underwent an operation at one of the Lincoln hospitals and is about restored to her former health.
A new cement walk was laid in front of Frank Kratochvil’s restaurant, which is a noticeable improvement to the place.
Miss Frances Kucera returned to Madison last week, where she has steady employment. She had been spending a few days here with her mother, Mrs. John Kucera.
Mr. and Mrs. Anton Kynel greeted a fine baby boy at their home last Tuesday. Dr. Kavan has charge of the case and reports mother and son doing well.
The present cold weather makes one believe that Mother Nature forgot to turn over her calendar. The trees and plants are delayed in placing aside their winter attire and it will be some time yet before it will look like spring.
Today we have a very cold wave and it will be no surprise to us if we get some more snow.Dr. Knight was hurriedly called to the Jos. Blecha home west of town to dress a severe wound inflicted by Mr. Blecha while discing.
The seat which Joe occupied on the machine, broke off and caused him to fall squarely on the sharp discs. He sustained a bad cut in the lower portion of his body and was otherwise slightly bruised. As it is, Joe may consider himself lucky in escaping as he did.Messrs. Joseph Fiala of Goodnight, Okla. and his brother, Frank, of Greeley, Colo., Anton, a theological student at Evanston, Ill. and Rudolph of Howells, were Clarkson visitors the latter part of the week.
They came here Friday afternoon from Howells, where they attended the funeral of their mother, Mrs. Jos. V. Fiala.
Joseph remained here until the next day with relatives while his brothers returned to Howells and came for him Saturday afternoon.
They also had their picture taken at the Powolny studio while in Clarkson.
On Sunday, the first three gentlemen departed for their respective homes.The sleet storm which swept over Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota and northwestern Iowa Monday night cost the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company $900,000.
Telephone service which was cut off between more than half of the towns in Nebraska because of the breaking down of the long distance lines, is rapidly being restored.
Sixty crews with about 1,200 men have been at work in the storm area since Tuesday. Twenty-seven crews have been working between Central City and Gothenburg in order to open the main line of telephone communication between the eastern and western part of Nebraska.
The storm covered an area of more than 60,000 square miles, extending from Worthington, Minn., to Valentine, Nebr., on the north and from Wahoo to Gothenburg, Nebr., on the south.
The telephone company had about 18,000 poles down in Nebraska, and 5,000 in the territory outside of the state.
One hundred cars of poles and pole line materials have been hurried to the storm area from Chicago, Minneapolis, Kansas City and other points.Dr. J. W. Kavan motored to Schuyler early yesterday morning, where he boarded the train for Omaha to attend the annual convention of the Nebraska State Medical association.
Fajman Motor Co. sold a six-cylinder touring car to Jos. V. Novotny of near Heun and an Overland “4” sedan to Frank Wolf.
April 28, 1922 - reprinted September 25, 1991Clarkson Markets: Wheat $1.20, Oats 26c-28c, Corn 40c-42c, Rye 80c, Hogs $9.40, Butter 15c, Eggs 20c.
Wanted: a limited number of cattle and horses for pasturing on my farm 11 miles south of Clarkson. Will take in horses at $10.00 for the season and cattle at $7.50 a head. Plenty of grass and running water. See me at once. Ladislav Horak, Rt. 2, Clarkson, Neb.
The largest class in the school history of Colfax county wrote in the eighth grade examinations given last week.
There was a total of 259, Schuyler furnishing 60, Howells 70, Leigh 36, Clarkson 46, Rogers 18, Richiand 12, Saints Peter and Paul 11, Olean 11.
County Superintendent Vogltance informed The Press that he expects the list to be more than 300, before the close of the examinations.
As there were but 69 who passed the examinations, many will rewrite in the last test to be given May 4 and 5. Those who write at that time will be asked to take only the subjects which constituted failure in the first exams.
Colfax county may well feel elated over the interest taken in school work. We have before us a report from Cuming county where the class in the same work numbered 178. Cuming county has 80 rural schools, whereas Colfax county has but 60, and 81 more pupils wrote in the examinations in Colfax county than in Cuming county, indicating quite forcibly that the residents of Colfax county are keenly interested in education.Farmers throughout this section report a high mortality rate in the spring pig crop occasioned because of unfavorable weather, cold and wet. J. E. Smatlan of Schuyler also reports a considerable loss in his herd and he is especially well equipped for care of the new arrivals.
Mr. Smatlan also stated that the Poland China Record has made an investigation, sending questionnaires to thousands of breeders throughout the country. Up to the time of the last issue, March 25 about 10,000 replies had been received from breeders and they are usually quite well equipped to care for young stock, report a mortality rate of about 50% in the 1922 crop.
Mr. Smatlan’s loss has been considerably under this percentage and his brood sows are now caring for an average of about seven to a head, although the farrowing was better than an average of nine to be heard.Mrs. Ellen M. Strunk of Schuyler passed away quietly into her last sleep at the residence in the east part of Schuyler, after having suffered a second stroke of paralysis last Thursday.
She was first stricken with paralysis Dec. 11. last, and since that time has been confined to her bed.
During all of the time of her illness she was cheerful, patient and at all times hopeful of her recovery.County Attorney Sadilek commissioned as a special sheriff, left for Hartington armed with a warrant for the arrest of Adolph Mrsny, who two weeks ago attempted to murder his wife and then commit suicide at Randolph, and who has since been confined in the Cedar county jail at Hartington.
Mrsny has been endeavoring to get a release upon a $10,000 bond, and the bond was submitted to the clerk for his approval.
Monday of this week. Jerry Cada of Clarkson, filed an affidavit with the court asking for a warrant for the arrest of Mrsny, charging insanity. Residents about Clarkson will oppose the freedom of Mr. Mrsny and fear that it is unsafe for him to be given his liberty under bail.
Mr. Cada asked that County Attorney Sadilek be commissioned special sheriff to bring the prisoner to Schuyler and appear before the Colfax county insanity board, where he will be given a trial on the charge.Monday marked the 40th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. N. Glandt of Leigh, and their children arranged a fitting celebration to commemorate the event.
Nearly 100 relatives and friends responded to the invitations and all met at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Bruhn and proceeded from there in a body to the Glandt home.
The surprise was complete and the intruders took immediate possession of the Glandt home and proceeded to make merry the occasion, games and social converse interspersed with music and songs whiling away the time altogether too quickly.Dr. F. F. Jones of Leigh exhibited a couple of coops of chicken on Leigh’s main street last Saturday that attracted considerable attention.
One coop contained three chickens which had been tested for tuberculosis and found to be reactors. In another coop he had the carcass of a bird upon which he had performed a postmortem showing the interior of a tubercular chicken.
The chickens came from a farm near Leigh where the Doctor had found 60 reactors in a flock of 200 chickens. Dr. Jones also tested the cattle on this farm and found a number of reactors and it is thought the chickens contracted the disease from the cattle.Steven Gloser is having the interior of his building repaired and redecorated at Leigh. Mr. Gloser’s building and soft drink parlor and fixtures were damaged by fire several weeks ago. He disposed of the fixtures and stock at public auction. E. Kenfield purchased some of the fixtures and will use them in conducting a soft drink parlor.
Mr. Gloser has not announced what his intentions are for future business.