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:
November 2, 1922 - reprinted July 14, 1993We were made a friendly call by Messrs. W.C. Hronek, Geo. and Haley West of Schuyler, while on their way to witness a football game at Leigh. We were surprised to learn that this was Mr. West's first visit to Clarkson after being a resident of Colfax county for over thirty-eight years. Mr. West was born in Schuyler and although he took part in various business activities in his home town he never had the opportunity of visiting our little city.
The board of managers of the Z.C.B.J. hall at Clarkson will give a social dance on Saturday evening, Nov. 4.
The guessing contest conducted at Pimper's Store closed with unusual success. Anton Urbanek was the fortunate winner of the first prize which was $10.00 in cash. He placed the number of gloves n the show window at 645. The second prize of $5.00 was divided between John J. Podany and Joseph Bartes, each guesing the same number, 650. The correct number of gloves displayed in the window was 640. A large number of patrons ventured into the guessing game and the guesses ranged from 144 to 4500 pairs.
Little Ruth Hahn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hahn, who had been laid up for some time with an attack of scarlet fever, has now completely recovered from the illness. Dr. Knight attended the little patient.
Bernice, the five-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Julius Zastera has been absent from school for several days. She is suffering with an attack of bronchitis and is in the care of Dr. Knight, who now has the child well on the road to recovery.
Mr. and Mrs. John Wankmiller, former Colfax county residents, now residing in David City, were here last Sunday paying a visit to their friends. Mr. Wankmiller is assistant manager of the Kopac Bros.' garage at David City.
The home of our friend, Wm. A. Karel, welcomed a ten-pound baby boy this forenoon. The proud father is now busy passing out cigars. Long live the king!
A fire, said to have been caused by a cigarette or cigar stub, swept over the meadow on the Louis Kudrna farm east of town last Friday, and destroyed several stacks of hay. The flames fanned by a heavy gale spread rapidly and as they endangered the nearby corn fields an emergency call was sent to town for the firemen who went out to the scene with their fire-fighting appartus and after a strenuous and diligent effort succeeded in subduing the fire.
Adolph Karel, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Karel, departed by way of Columbus for San Diego, California, where he is promised permanent employment with one of the telphone companies of that city. Adolph will be met by his friend Lawrence Folda, who now makes his home in San Diego with his mother and sisters.
Dr. Kavan reports the birth of baby girls at the homes of Vaclav Dytrych and Frank A. Podany of Stanton County.
The Ed Zelenda home is under quarantine the past week, their little daughter being confined to her bed with a case of scarlet fever. Dr. Knight is making calls at the home daily and reports satisfactory progress.
The Halloween dance given by the Jirovec orchestra was a record-breaker in more than one way. Decorations of the hall were plentiful and the large crowd that attended expressed delight over the grand time all enjoyed. It was one of the best attended dances in Clarkson for a good many months and it is understood that the orchestra will make this an annual affair.
On Friday evening, while shopping in Clarkson, Jerry Molacek lost his Ford touring car which he had left standing on the street south of Chleboun Bros.' store. The next day word reached here from the sheriff, who had been notified of the theft, that the car was found abandoned on the road about sixteen miles southeast of Clarkson. It was later learned that the car had been stolen by two youthful boys from Fremont who gave their names as William McGuire and Blanchard Beemer. The lads are but 14 years old and are said to have stolen 12 cars in the last two weeks.
Word was received at Clarkson from Omaha this week, announcing the marriage of Miss Helen Vais and J. W. Woods. The bride is the eldest daughter of Anton Vais, formerly of Clarkson, now residing in Huron, South Dakota, and her companion is a young gentleman from Omaha.
Adolph J. Fairman was at Omaha the latter part of the past week from where he drove home a new Ford truck.
November 2, 1922 - reprinted July 21, 1993The Lutheran Cradle Roll met at the home of Mrs. Louis Heinemann. Though the attendance was small, those present had a nice social hour and enjoyed a fine lunch, served by the pleasant hostess. The next meeting will be at the home of Mrs. Emil Seis.
Jos. V. Havelka returned home last week from a sojourn in Kansas City and Excelsior Springs, Missouri.
Several of "Ye Faithful" went to Schuyler to hear Gilbert M. Hitchcock speak on political issues.
William Hajek of the Tabor neighborhood has been under the weather for several days last week but the timely attention of Dr. Hebbenstriet soon had him up and around again.
Frank Shonka and son, Jerry, of David City, were in Howells last week visiting at the James A. Drahota and Joseph R. Molacek homes, the latter being in Stanton county.
Mr. and Mrs. Alex Hruby and L. R. Coufal and family spent last Thursday in Omaha.
John Svoboda, a Lindsay banker, was in Howells visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. JOs. B. Svoboda and other relatives and friends.
Hy. P. Mueller returned to Howells last Sunday after several weeks absence during which time he visited in Colorado, at the home of his sister, Mrs. Frank E. Loebe, at Cheyenne, Wells, Colorado.
R. L.Morgan of Denver, Colorado, shipped in two carloads of fine calves last week and sold the entire bunch of nearl 100 head to Jos. A. Evert. They were of good quality and are bound to make Mr. Evert a nice profit. We understand that Mr. Morgan is to have a shipment of stock hogs in Howells before long which he will offer for sale.
Dr. Gibson, the Schuyler veterinary [sic], was in Howells last Monday looking after business in his line.
Harold Quesner and Randolph Mestl students at the state university at Lincoln, spent Sunday with home folks.
Alois A. Pimper reports the sale of a brand new Olverland car to Frank Chlubna, who is employed at the Rudolph Bazata farm.
Chris Strehle motored over to West Point last Sunday for a visit with relatives and friends.
Anton Sima spent last Sunday at the home of his brother, Frank, at Schuyler.
Mr. and Mrs. John Fuchs are the proud parents of a little baby girl born last Monday.
Anton Sima left for Tyndall, South Dakota, last Monday where he will arrange to take his father and mother back to Howells, having rented the property vacated by Mr. and Mrs. Josef B. Svoboda.
E. L. Gruntorad spent Sunday with his parents at Ulysses.
Last Saturday afternoon Mrs. Wm. Kovar entertained the ladies of the "500" club at her spacious home. The afternoon was devoted to playing of five hundred after which the hostess served a several course luncheon. Mrs. Chas. Stangel carried off first honors at ... [rest of article missing]
The Jos. B. Svoboda sale held last Saturday was well attended. The residence property was purchased by John Dolezal for $910.00.
The twenty-fifth wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Mejstrik was celebrated at the Bohemian National hall last Saturday. The many friends of this estimable couple made use of the opportunity and sprang a complete surprise upon Mr. and Mrs. Mejstrik, whom they then escorted to the hall and all joined in having a good time.
Two Halloween parties were held here Tuesday evening. One was given by the younger set and the other was sponsored by Mesdames B. R. Zastera and W. A. Kunhart in honor of the younger married folks. Tis needless to say that both parties were enjoyed.
If you meet Pete Bogner notice the broad smile he is wearing now-a-days. He had good reason for doing so as he became the father of a bouncing baby boy which was born at St. Joseph hospital in Omaha.
The hog house on the former John Immel farm in Midland precinct was destroyed by fire last Sunday. The structure was 14x36 and was partly covered with insurance. The cause is unknown, although it is thought that the building caught on fire from sparks from a nearby bonfire. Jos. J. Hanzel of Howells who at one time was owner of the farm, sold the same to Carl Ludwig.
Through me you can obtain Real Estate loans costing less than 5 1/2 percent interest. I close loans without delay. Write or phone. John H. Roper, Dodge, Nebraska.
Miss Olga Folda's birthday anniversary befell last Sunday and the event was celebrated in a most appropriate manner at the Folda Home. Among the guests at the party we also find the names of the high school teachers, Misses Johnson, Phelps, and Sillaway, including several lady friends of Miss Folda.
Because of impassable roads last Sunday which were left in a very deplorable condition following the heavy rains of the past week, the "sausage social" to have been given at Heun that day was postponed until Sunday, November 19. The management is in hopes of striking more favorable weather conditions.
The infant son that came to bless the home of our friend, William A. Karel, was called away by the Angel of Death. Suffering with a severe hemorrhage of the brain, the child was submitted to an examination by Drs. Kolouch and Kavan and was then taken to Schuyler where an operation was performed. Withstanding the ordeal the baby was then brought home and in a few hours ascended to the celestial realms above. The entire community shares the trying and irreparable loss sustained by the sorrowing parents.
The marriage of Miss Edna Byrum and Emil F. Hobel, both popular young people of Leigh, took place at Schuyler. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Julius Byrum, of Leigh, and the bridegroom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. James Hobel, also of that city. The newly wedded pair will make their home in Leigh where Mr. Hobel is engaged in the mason business.
Mrs. Anna Kvetensky, mother of Vaclav Kvetensky of Midland precinct suffered a stroke of apolexy yesterday and is reported to be in a very precarious condition. The victim is an elderly woman and slight hopes are entertained for her recovery. Dr. Kavan is calling at the home.
Yesterday Mr. and Mrs. Jos. V. Podany took their youngest daughter, Miss Helen to Omaha, where the young lady is to receive medical treatment at the St. Joseph hospital. She has been suffering with stomach trouble the past two weeks.
Mrs. H. B. Turk of Omaha, formerly Miss Ida Dusatko, arrived here the previous week for a few days' visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Dusatko.
F. J. Brabec was at Omaha last week viewing the live stock market with the intention of purchasing additional feeders to the lot he already has.
November 9, 1922 - reprinted July 28, 1993R. F. Misek has been on the sick list for the past few days.
Last Friday, John Mestl took his wife to Omaha where she underwent an operation for appendicitis at the St. Catherine Hospital on Monday. It is reported that she is getting along real well.
Mrs. Jos. A. Novak was confined to her bed for several days this week but is now on the mend.
Cop Dickey is taking a forced vacation as a result of being under the weather and confined to his bed. Mike Hader is looking after the welfare of this city.
Mestl Bros. sold a two-hole Junier Sandwich sheller yesterday to Jos. Liehkus.
Mr. and Mrs. William Kovar were at Fremont Tuesday evening attending a convention and a banquet of Victor dealer in this district.
The missionary society which was just recently organized by the ladies of the SS Peter and Paul church held a card party at the Royal theatre last evening. Seventeen tables were laid out for the guests. A few hours were devoted to card playing after which followed a social dance. The ladies also served a dainty luncheon and refreshments.
During the electrical storm last Friday night the Tabor school was struck by lightning. A call was sent for our fire truck, but before the arrival of the firemen, the neighbors had the flame under control before much damage was done to the belfry.
Jos. Novak, Sr. was drawn to serve on federal jury. He is to report at Omaha next Monday.
Miss Irma Quesner left for Chicago where she will attend a university during the winter to complete her studies which she took up some time ago.
D. D. Hill and family arrived here from Nickerson the forepart of the week to take up his duties as local station agent. John Knipping will continue to serve in his former capacity as assistant.
E. Quesner attended the Weitfeld land sale at Wet Point last Wednesday and as one of the bidders he bought the farm for $152.50 per acre.
The firm of Wiegert and Smoot dissolved partnership last week. Chas. Weigert, the senior partner, taking over the entire business. Mr. Smoot is not as yet decided as to what he will do in the future.
Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda and daughter, Miss Olga, and the following young ladies, Misses Elenor Noh, Lilly Bukacek, Helen Schwartz, Martha Hobaz and Libbie Zak were at Linwood Friday, taking part in a school program. The young ladies presented a comedy farce there entitled "The Burglar." It is the same play that was given here at the bazaar program several weeks ago. Miss Folda also presented several dancing numbers which made a big hit with the Linwood populace.
Mr. and Mrs. Louis Rozmarin and children motored to Omaha last Saturday and visited over Sunday with the family of Will Rozmarin. They also paid a visit to Frank Rozmarin of Weston, who is recuperating in an Omaha hospital following an operation.
W. I. Strehle and Mike Harder were passengers to Omaha last Thursday and returned the following day with two brand new Fords for the show room in Mr. Strehle's garage.
John F. Svoboda of Clarkson was in Howells last Friday looking after matters in his life of business.
The condition of Mrs. Ed Rozmarin who has been very ill at her home with an attack of erysipelas, is much improved. A trained nurse is caring for Mrs. Rozmarin.
During the past week both of the Leigh banks have installed radiophone equipment in their institutions. The instruments were insalled so as to give their customers up-to-the-minute service in the matter of market reports, etc. Market reports will be received every fifteen minutes.
Jerry Hlubocky, who has been receiving treatment at the hands of Dr. W. O. Bridges of Omaha, returned home last Friday greatly improved in health.
Mrs. Frank Janovsky is reported to be sick at her home on the Jos. Srb, Jr., farm in south Cuming county. Her many friends are anxiously awaiting her early recovery.
Anton Sima, Jr., returned from Tyndall, South Dakota, the later part of the past week, accompanied by his parents, Mrs. and Mrs. Anton Sima, Sr., who will make their future home in Howells. THey have rented the house recently vacated by Mr. and Mrs. Jos. B. Svoboda, now owned by John Dozeal.
Ed Taborsky, a one-time resident and business man of Howells, was in our little city last Tuesday renewing friendships.
The Folda Post of the American Legion will give its third annual confetti dance here on next Saturday evening.
Chester Bristol, who is employed by Wm. Busch near Stanton was here for an over Sunday visit with his mother.
J. A. Gerrard while in Schuyler last week disposed of his store building, the purchaser being J. H. Costello, the purchase price being, $6,500.
H. B. Chronister this week purchased of Emil Coufal, his cottage home occupied by himself, the price being $3,000. Mr. Coufal expects to be able to move into his new home on Second Street about the first of the year, when Mr. Chronister will be given possession of the property.
Because of a "short" in the electric wiring of the T. J. Ryan coupe which was standing on the street near the John Nechvatal soft drink establishment last Friday evening, the fire department was called out. The origin of the trouble was discovered before the arrival of the department, however, and no damage resulted.
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hahn welcome a 9-pound daughter into their home this morning.
The Leigh football team met its first defeat of the season last Friday afternoon at the hands of the Creighton high school of Omaha. The score was 13 to 3. This score the vistors were able to attain only with assistance of the referee, who gave the visitors two decisions that virtually gave them one of their touchdowns.
Miss Loretta Miler was a passenger to Beemer Friday for a few days' visit at the J. S. Severa home.
A. J. Karel, Anton Prazak and Richard Karel put in a few days this week on Goose Lake on a hunting mission. Yesterday, A. J. Fajman and Joseph Vacin left for a few days' duck hunting in Holt county.
Miss Mary Vybiral, the county Red Cross nurse, was here the forepart of the week paying a visit to the local schools.
Dr. Sachs was called here from Omaha yesterday to render consulation in the case of Earl Henry, son of A. S. Henry, who is very ill with auto-intoxication.
November 9, 1922 - reprinted November 2, 1994The week of November 12 will be observed throughout the United States as the second annual "Cancer Week."
Local doctors and medical associations in cooperation with the officers of the American Society for the control of Cancer are arranging for a series of lectures during Cancer week on the prevention of the dreaded disease, one of which will be given at the Clarkson opera house by Dr. Geo. Pratt, on Friday afternoon, November 17 at 4 p.m.
Mr. Pratt has specialized in this line of work for many years and has a wide knowledge of the symptoms of cancer. He is therefore in a position to render much reliable information pertaining to the treatment and danger of cancer.
No admission will be charged to the meeting and the people are urged to attend, and thus avail themselves of the opportunity of learning more about this malady which is estimated to have caused 1,200,000 deaths in the United States during the years 1900 to 1920, inclusive.
The object of the American Society for the Control of Cancer is to bring to the public through every available way, the information that ignorance is the cause of death from cancer and that correct information will do more than any other factor to reduce the number of deaths from this disease.
Be sure to attned the meeting and tell your friends about it.This evening the city board entered into a contract with the Scribner Light and Artificial Ice Co. for the provision of electric light and power for the city.
The contract is to run for a period of twenty years and is the very same kind of agreement that the village of Howells has with the company.
Steps will be taken at once by the company to proceed with the erection of the transmission line.
It is expected that the work will be completed in about two weeks time after the arrival of the material.
November 16, 1922 - reprinted August 4, 1993Joseph Holoubek of near Howells, purchased the Anton Nykodem residence property at Clarkson for the consideration of $4,000. The property is located in Rosicky's addition to Clarkson and consists of an eight-room house and a large lot. Mr. Holoubek and his family have decided to quit farming and will take possession of the property by the first of March.
The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Gus Woeppel, living eleven miles northwest of Clarkson, will be sorry to learn of the death of their baby son who came to their home about six months ago. The little remains were laid to rest in the Stanton cemetery.
After breaking away from extended silence the local talent will present a Bohemian play under the auspices of the Clarkson opera house on the evening of Saturday, November 25. It is a good comedy farce and will please all who can understand the play. Frequent rehearsals give assurance of a first-class rendition. A dance will follow the play.
A large host of friends and relatives gathered at the Frank J. Brabec farm north of Clarkson on Thursday evening where they partook in the celebration of Mr. and Mrs. Brabec's twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. It was a grand reunion in the true sense of the word and all in attendance speak of a jovial time.
Last Friday evening, Miss Pauline Bates of Leigh and her piano class at Clarkson made a hike along the railroad track and when a ways out of town all partook in a big wiener roast. The youngsters enjoyed the treat and outing to their heart's content.
Dr. Knight presented Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Zrust, south of town with a bouncing baby boy this week.
Anton BElina came down from Schuyler yesterday to look after the renting of his property in the south part of town which is to be occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Lada Hanel.
E. E. Wolf and family were up from Morse Bluffs last Saturday visiting with relatives.
Robert Novotny and his esteemed family arrived here last week from Lewiston, Montana, for an indefinite visit with Clarkson relatives. Robert tells us that he disposed of his personal property in Montana but still retains his large land holdings near Lewistown. It is their intention to spend the winter where [sic] with the approach of spring will leave for eastern Colorado where Robert expects to go in a short time to look up a suitable place.
The forepart of this week Mr. and Mrs. P. B. Hampl purchased the residence property belonging to the Warner estate and siuated in the souteast part of town. The place is now occupied by Mr. and Mr. Lada Hanel who will move into the Belina dwelling nearby. Mr. and Mrs. Hampl will take possession of the acquired premises as soon as they can be vacated.
Dr. Kavan increased the population of Colfax county by leaving a baby girl at the Frank R. Dworak home in Wilson precinct, yesterday.
F. L. Seda is here today from near Dodge attending the funeral of John Luxa. While here he joined the large list of Press readers in the Dodge locality. He is at present farming at the A. Stecher farm due north of Dodge.
Mrs. Geo. Watchorn was summoned to appear as a witness at the Federal Court in Oklahoma City, for which place she left last Sunday in company with the United States Marshal.
Mr. and Mrs. Emil Faiman went to Omaha Sunday, where Mrs. Fiaman entered the Nicholas Senn hospital for treatment.
Anton Bartunek, sheriff of Colfax County, sold two residence properties in Schuyler at sheriff's sale Monday afternoon to satisfy mortgages given to John Shuster. The Thomas Allen property in south Schuyler was bid in by Mr. Shuster for $2,450. The Albert G. Mounts residence in the third ward was also bid in by Mr. Shuster for $2,700.
Miss Celia Gershun arrived last Friday from Warsaw, Poland, and will make her home in Schuyler with her brother, Ben J. Gershun, of the firm of Lafsky and Gershun. Miss Gershun states that conditions in her native country are very bad, because of the prevailing high prices, and the low value of the circulating medium. Her brother, Ben, sent her $265 to assist her in coming to America and with this she purchased 2,915,000 marks, the value of the mark in Poland now being 11,000 for the American Dollar. THe bulk of the money was so great she was compelled to secure a coaster wagon to haul the money to her home.
Word reached here this week that Rev. B. A. Filipi is on his return from Czechoslovakia where he spent the past three months with relatives. He is now crossing the Atlantic and is expected to reach home by next week in time for the Sunday services.
Edward Indra, one of the fine young farmers of this community, leased his farm southwest of town to Tom Bos and is figuring on taking up residence in the confines of our town. Before doing so, Edward will hold a public sale of all his personal and farm property. According to their plans, Mr. and Mrs. Indra plan on taking an extended trip out west next spring.
Blahoslav Novotny and his mother were Omaha vistors the latter part of last week, having motored down on Friday.
Miss Katie Chleboun went to Omaha yesterday to consult an optician.
Miss Mary Bukacek left for Omaha yesterday where she will spend a few days with relatives and friends.
Miss Mary Kvetensky, who had been visiting with home folks in Midland precinct, left this morning for Omaha where she is employed.
John E. Tomka of near Dodge was in Clarkson Saturday posting bills for his public sale to be held Tuesday, November 28, Complete description of the property to be offered will appear in the next issue of The Press.
Mrs. Chas Psota of near Clarkson is at Schuyler since the fore part of the month rallying from an operation. She is expected home this week.
Miss Hedvika Koci, who is engaged in the city schools at Cedar Rapids, Neb., was here from Friday until Sunday, visiting with home folks.
Herman Mestl, one of the prominent farmers residing southeast of Howells, was here Friday attending to business matters. He also paid his respects to The Press of which he is an old-time reader.
John Mikes of Dodge stopped off here last Friday for a while on his return from Stanton whee business matters demanded his attention. Mr. Mikes also paid us a visit and while here renvewed his subscription to our publications.
Joseph Kabes was on the Omaha market the latter part of the past week and while there purchased an additional lot of feeders. In all, Mr. Kabes is feeding about four carloads of stock this fall.
The Mrsny sale of household goods held Saturday under the direction of the guardian, J. D. Wolf, turned out very successfully. All articles were disposed of and a reasonable price realized there from.
Frank Kunc and family arrived here the other day from Oklahoma for a brief visit with Clarkson relatives. We are informed that Mr. Kunc is pulling up stakes in Oklahoma and intends to locate in Nebraska, his former home.
November 16, 1922 - reprinted August 11, 1993Teddy Schlautman left for Grand Island last Tuesday morning where he has enrolled as a student at the Grand Island Business College. He is a bright and industrious young lad and there is no question that through his untiring efforts he will attain a good position in the business world of which he and his friends will be proud.
Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Nadrchal went to Omaha on Monday morning to attend the funeral of their sister-in-law, Mrs. Frank Janovsky, who was buried there on Wednesday. Mr. and Mrs. Bert Pinker and their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Malik, also went down on the same mission.
Mrs. Josephine Kajzler is reported to be sick and her many friends hope that it is nothing very serious and that she will soon recover. She is under the attention of Dr. Myers.
Mrs. A. H. Mestl and her niece, Irene Mestl, went to Omaha last Saturday where they visited with Irene's mother, Mrs. J.T. Mestl, who is recuperating at one of the city hospitals after an operation which she underwent a short time ago. Her many friends will be glad to know that she will be able to return home in a very short time.
Mr. and Mrs. Jos. A. Novak are the proud parents of a baby boy who arrived at their home last Saturday. Through the thoughtfulness of the family physician, Dr. Hebbenstriet, reports both mother and son are doing well.
Cop Dickey, who has been under the weather for some time, is able to be around again attending to his duties as village marshal.
Mrs. Art Softley of Creston, who had been visiting at the Jos. Petricek home, left for Omaha on Monday morning for a visit with relatives.
The Lutheran Ladies' Aid had their last meeting at the home of Mrs. Chas. Forbes. The weather was disagreeable and of attendance from the country there was none. Yet there was a fair and appreciative audience. A professional pessimist could not help but soften and take a new interest in life under the influence of the delicacies served by our good hostess. Besides there was the most unusual report submitted by the treasurer on the financial standing of the society. Our Ladies' Aid has worked hard and gained prosperity. We congratulate.
Miss Bessie Svoboda of Abie, arrived in Howells last Wednesday from Omaha where she was visiting relatives. She is visiting with her sister, Miss Emily, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Stracek.
Chris Strehle is driving around in what one would think is an advance model of the famous Overland car, but it is his old car which received a coat of paint at the hands of Ben J. Hass and a first class job was done.
Otto Slama, who had been staying at Madison for several weeks, returned to Howells on Saturday.
Christ Wittgow and family motored to Omaha in their Sedan last Friday and remained in the city until the following Monday. While there they visited at the home of Mrs. Wittgow's brother, Gus Lerch and family.
On Thursday evening of last week, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. K. Semerad celebrated their silver wedding at their farm home south of town. A large number of relatives and friends were invited and the event was celebrated in the Tabor hall in a most appropriate manner. There was an abundance of edibles and dancing lasted until the wee hours of the night.
Born, to Mr. and Mrs. Louis Studnicka of the Oleyan neighborhood, a bouncing baby boy. Dr. Hebbenstriet had charge of the case and all are well.
Miss Catherine Eusterbrook, who was operated for appendicitis at Fremont last week, has sufficiently recovered from the effects to leave the hospital. She returned home yesterday.
Miss Sophia Prusa returned Tuesday from Omaha where she had been staying since the operation undertaken by her sister, Mrs. J. T. Mestl, last week.
A baby girl was born Tuesday to Mr. and Mrs. James Podany, residing north of Clarkson. At present Mrs. Podany is staying at the home of her mother, Mrs. Anna Svitak. Dr. Myers reports both mother and baby doing exceedingly well.
November 16, 1922 - reprinted November 9, 1994John Luxa, prosperous Stanton county farmer and a pioneer settler of that county, died suddenly of heart trouble at his farm four miles southwest of Stanton. Unexpectedly as it was the crisis came in the morning. Mr. Luxa retired in the evening at his usual hour without complaining, although at times he felt a burning pain near the heart.
He was born in Bohemia on the 11th day of January, 1869, and came to this country with his parents when in his teens. He was known to be a hard-worker and through his perseverance and conservative habit he became owner of a fine farm near Stanton where he lead a peaceful life surrounded by his children. His wife died of heart trouble about fourteen years ago since when he remained a widower.
He leaves to survive one son, aged 17, and two daughters, one of whom is the wife of Jos. F. Seda of Stanton county. Besides his family he leaves three brothers, Joseph, James and Louis; and seven sisters, Mesdames Mary Psota, Antonia Hrouda, Barbara Hamsa, Anna Stoklasa, Bozena Hejtmanek, Agnes Sindelar and Rosie Sperl, all of whom were present at the sad rites with the exception of Mrs. Psota and Mrs. Hrouda who are reported to be ill.
The funeral was held this forenoon in the presence of a large concourse of friends and relatives from the farm home to the Z.C.B.J. Hall in Clarkson.
Burial was made in the Bohemian-Slovanic cemetery adjoining the town. The cortege was escorted by the Z.C.B.J. order of which the deceased was a member and the services were in charge of Rev. Havlik. The Clarkson band headed the procession.The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Gus Woepple, living eleven miles northwest of Clarkson, will be sorry to learn of the death of their baby son who came to their home about six months ago. The little remains were laid to rest in the Stanton cemetery.
According to daily press dispatches, Alton Mader Lundeen, of Newman Grove, Nebraska, American missionary in China, was kidnapped by Honan bandits, together with one Swedish subject, two French and two British subjects, and is being held, despite the protests of the American minister to China, to General Su Pei Fu, military power behind the Pekin government.
The bandits, it is claimed, are not holding the foreigners for ransom, but to obtain recognition of their demands for pay as regular soldiers of the Chinese army.
Lundeen has been allowed to communicate with his family, living in Wu Chow, and it is stated that he has not been harmed. He is a member of the Augusta mission, with home office at St. Peter, Minnesota.The 1923 membership drive of the American Red Cross was started by local workers on Saturday, November 11, and will continue all month.
Voluntary donations and membership fees are being received at both Clarkson banks who have charge of the roll call.
Leave your dollar or whatever amount you wish to contribute at your bank and receive your membership badge. It is a debt you owe humanity as the money derived by the Red Cross is used for charitable purposes only.
The work of the American Red Cross needs no explanation. It has become endeared to the hearts of not only all Americans but all the world. Wherever there is great human need, in war or in peace, the Red Cross is promptly on hand.
The battle against death goes tragically on. Floods and storms and fires lay waste the efforts and the hopes of mankind in the country as well as in the cities.
Besides being first to meet every crisis, it is last to leave it. Of course you will want to continue your membership in this great organization.A large host of friends and relatives gathered at the Frank J. Brabec farm north of Clarkson where they partook in the celebration of Mr. and Mrs. Brabec's 25 wedding anniversary.
It was a grand reunion in the true sense of the word and all in attendance speak of a jovial time.A large number of guests are enjoying a jolly good time at the John Podany farm north of Clarkson in commemoration of Mr. and Mrs. Podany's 25th wedding anniversary.
A mock wedding was carried out at the SS. Cyril and Methodius church this forenoon after which a number of friends and relatives were invited to the farm home where all were royally entertained. A dance is to be given in the evening.
November 23, 1922 - reprinted November 16, 1994Ernest Luxa, the nineteen year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Vaclav Luxa of this city passed away in death at the family home in the northeast part of town.
He was taken down with asthma a few days ago and although the best of care was given him his condition became grave and he was forced to surrender himself to the enemy.
The youth was not in the very best of health for a long time and was dependent on his parents in many things on account of his feeblemindedness.
I may be said that death comes to him as a redemmer, ending his earthly troubles for good. He was Mr. and Mrs. Luxa's youngest son and besides his parents is survived by two brothers, Louis and Joseph.
The funeral will be held Saturday forenoon from the family home with services at the Z.C.B.J. hall. Burial will be made in the Bohemian Slovanic cemetery west of town.The Presbyterian Church of Schuyler, was entirely destroyed by fire before the regular hour of evening worship, the loss will amount to about $15,000 with $6,000 insurance.
The blaze was discovered after [_?_] and while the firemen responded promptly there were unable to save the structure but did prevent the burning of the manse only twenty feet away.
This was the first opportunity for the use of the new truck and pump but the blaze had gained headway at an inaccessible place.
The Presbyterian church is one of the oldest houses of worship in Schuyler, having been built in 1890. Two years ago it was remodeled at a cost of about $10,000. The pipe organ was destroyed along with the church. Two pianos and some of the church equipment were removed.
The fire is believed to have been caused by an overheated furnace.The 25th anniversary of the Clarkson Hook and Ladder Company will be fittingly commemorated by a grand dance on Thanksgiving evening, Thursday, Novmeber 30.
Our fire department is now passing its 25th milestone which means that a quarter century of faithful work has been performed by the firemen of our town. Turning the pages back to all these years we fail to find a single instance where the fire boys failed to perform their duty.
They have always been on the job promptly in case of an emergency and through their earnest efforts have saved many a hundred dollars worth of property to the inhabitants of our town. Their work was always highly deserving of utmost praise and we consider our company as an inestimable asset to the village whose value cannot be measured in dollars and cents.
Even though we must say it ourselves, Clarkson has one of the most efficient fire departments to be found in a town of its size. We have good firefighting equipment which includes a medium-sized motor truck with several thousand feet of hose and other apparatus, notwithstanding, that the boys intend to add another large truck to the present outfit.
Most of this equipment was paid for by the savings of the department who realizes its main revenue from dances and fines imposed on the members for not attending roll call promptly or other similar offenses.
For all the years since the Clarkson fire department was in existance, the boys have been giving annual dances on Thanksgiving day and this year's dance more than ever before promises to be a big affair.
It is to serve as a celebration of the company's 25th anniversary and the committee in charge is sparing no pains nor money in making this dance the biggest and best ever undertaken by the firemen.
In order to show their good will towards the public, they will give away two handsome prizes at Thursday's dance which represent a value of $33.00.
The first prize to be awarded is an elegant electric floor lamp retailing at $18.00. The second prize consists of a fancy leather traveling bag worth $15.00.
November 30, 1922 - reprinted August 11, 1993The Clarkson High school cagers motored over to North Bend Tuesday evening where they were obliged to drop their second game of the season, the score being 20 to 17, in favor of North Bend. It was a hard fought game and our boys gave the winners a merry chase. The team was accompanied by A. J. O'Brein as coach.
Local friends and relatives of Emil Jindra of near Schuyler will be glad to learn of the young man's marriage at Council Bluffs, Iowa, last week, to Miss Tillie Severyn of Schuyler. Emil is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. H. Jindra, living northwest of Clarkson and has a large circle of friends here who wish him good luck. Mr. and Mrs. Jindra will live at Schuyler.
Messrs. Adolph Lukl and J. M. Zrust were at Prague last Friday where they attended the laying of the cornerstone for the new public school which is being constructed at a cost of over $40,000.00. They went down as delegates of the Mason order under whose direction the services were held. Several members of the lodge from Leigh were also in attendance.
A surprise party was given at the opera house basement Friday evening in honor of Rev. B.A. Filipi who returned from his European trip on Wednesday of last week. The reception was given by his congregation and only the members of the church were present. The evening was pleasantly spent in a general good time. A lunch was also served.
W.I. Strehle reports the sale of one of the latest models of Ford touring cars to Wm. Schmidt, living in the Schuyler territory.
Bogner Bros. received about forty head of feeder from the Omaha market last week which they will feed out in their yards this winter.
Emil Folda of Clarkson was in Howells last Friday giving his attention to matters at the Colfax County bank as its president.
Frank Zvacek, one of the successful farmers and feeder of this community purchased a bunch of fine cattle from the Farmers Lumber and Grain Co. this week. He will feed them out this winter and considering the fine quality of cattle he got, we are sure he will come very near topping the market if he does not actually do it.
Sheriff Bartunek of Schuyler was in Howells last Friday on official business.
Jos. A Evert sold forty head of cattle which he purchased some time ago to Herman D. Stigge. When Mr. Evert purchased the cattle there were more head in the bunch than he really wanted but as the price asked for them looked reasonable he took the entire lot. He succeeded in selling off several head at a nice profit.
James A. Drahota was at Madison last Friday looking after his land holdings in that community and attending to other matters of business.
W. I. Strehle went to Omaha the latter part of the past week from where he drove home a new Ford to be displayed in his garage.
Harold Quesner and Randolph Mestl, who are attending the state university spent Sunday in Howells visiting under the parental roof.
Dr. Groeteke, the popular veterinarian invested into a brand new Ford coupe, having purchased same through Prazak Motor Co., the old reliable Ford agency at Clarkson. The Doctor says he does not enjoy driving around in an open car when it is around 20 below zero.
November 30, 1922 - reprinted August 18, 1993Miss Mary Vybiral, the Red Cross nurse, made a professional visit at Mrs. Jungbluth's school on Wednesday. She made the physical examinations of the pupils, now required by law in all public school. She made her professional visit at this school on December 1, last year and it was very interesting to compare results of the two examinations. Two of the pupils had grown three inches, and several two inches, and increased in weight accordingly during the year. As a whole, the school of twelve pupils was found to be in splendid physical condition. She especially observed and made mention of their well brushed teeth and clean hands and finger nails. Her visit to the school is an "event," long looked forward two and long remembered.
According to the information we received yesterday from the manager of the famous Bohemian violin virtuoso, Jaroslav Kocian, who was to have appeared before the public in Clarkson, December 9, the artist will not be here as all his concert dates in the middle west have been cancelled for the present. Whether or not Mr. Kocian will come to Clarkson later on is a matter of speculation at this time. The noted violin master was to have also given a concert at Schuyler.
Last Thursday afternoon Mrs. Adolph Lukl entertained the following ladies at a social session: Mesdames John F. Pimper, F. W. Noh, Emil Folda, Jos. F. Jirovec, Anton Vlach, Fred Jelinek, Emil Petr, Anton Odvarka, Jr., V.J. Chleboun, Jos. R. Vitek, Frank J. Miller, J.M. Mundil and Frank H. Hobza. The afternoon hours were most pleasantly spent in a sociable manner and working at fancy work. A fine lunch consisting of several courses was also served.
Hubert P. Mueller, one of the young farmers of the Howells territory and a late entry in the Omaha Daily News movie contest, was in Clarkson yesterday canvassing subscriptions and calling on some of his friends. Hubert also called on us and while renewing his subscription to The Press he mentioned that he is doing real well in the contest and at the time of this writing he is the third highest standing contestant. His friends will do Hubert a big favor by turning their subscriptions over to him and thus help him on the way to victory.
J.E. Cakl and Clarence Moore were at Plainview last Monday, taking an examination for the purpose of taking out cream testing licenses. Both were successful in obtaining the privilege and will go into the creamery business at the old Herald building as representatives of the Lincoln Pure Butter Co. They are now ready for business. Both are fine young men with progressive ideas and have a bright future themselves. An announcement calling the attention of the public to the effect may be found elsewhere in this issue.
Frank Koudelka, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Koudelka of this city, was hastily taken to Schuyler early yesterday morning where he submitted to an operation for appendicitis. We understand that Frank withstood the ordeal very nicely and hopes are [age, for a senior to receive on] [sic] imentertained [sic] for a speedy recovery. The young man has been a helper a [sic] the Miller furniture store for a number of years and was taken to Schuyler in his employer's car.
G. A. and Henry Koza spent several days the latter part of last week at Lynch looking after the renting of their farm for the coming year.
A. J. Fajman was at Omaha Friday from where he drove up a new Ford for the Prazak Motor Co.
Edward Radhouse, one of the popular young men of the Heun neighborhood, is to leave by the end of the week for Lincoln to enroll as a student at the Lincoln Auto School. He intends to take a course in mechanical engineering.
T.W.Holden of Jey Em, Wyoming, is visiting at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Hamsa, since last week. Mr. Holden intends to remain until after Thanksgiving when he will return to his home in Wyoming where he is known as a prosperous stockman also being the owner of two extensive ranches.
Messrs. Emil Petr, Jos. Mundil, J. D. Wolf, Fred Jelinek and Adolph Dudek were at Schuyler Monday evening, attending a business meeting of the Colfax county bankers.
Mr. and Mrs. Jos. F. Seda, residing on route No. 3 are rejoicing over the birth of their first-born baby, a boy, who put in his appearance in the presence of Dr. Kavan on last Friday.
It is rumored that Dr. S. G. Allen and his family formerly of Clarkson, are making arrangements to locate at Stanton, Since leaving Clarkson about five years ago they made their home in Scottsbluff where the doctor formed a partnership with Dr. E. F. Zoerb, also formerly of this place. The change is to be made this week or the early part of December.
Jos. Vacin and wife, spent Monday visiting with Joe's parents in Abie who moved there recently from Brainard.
Dr. Knight made a call to the Longin Sousek home in Midland precinct last Thursday and while there gifted the household with a fine baby boy.
Emil Folda departed on Monday for Oswego, Oregon, where he will assist his brother-in-law, Charles Sadilek, and several other interested parties with the opening of a new bank at Oswego. The institution was organized several months ago, however, the launching of the business on the 10 of December, by which time the new banking building now in course of construction is to be ready for occupancy. Mr. Folda is to be one of the principle stockholders in the new bank. He expects to be gone for a number of weeks and after he is through with his work at Oswego he will go to San Diego, California by which time he will be joined by his wife.
The Jirovec orchestra was at Lindsay last night, supplying music for a dance given by the firemen of that place.
Mrs. Gus Fajman is recuperating from an attack of scarlet fever with which she has been affected the past two weeks.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vidlak are spending the week with relatives at Abie, having gone down, last Saturday. On Tuesday they attended the wedding of Frank's sister, Rosie, who became the bride of Jacob Kripal, a young man of that community. They will return until after Thanksgiving.
Mesdames F. C. Kratochvil and Frank Vidlak were Howells visitors Tuesday.
Otto Sobeslavsky has also joined the local radio bugs and is now enjoying the set he installed last week.
Frank C. Kratochvil made a business trip to Omaha yesterday.
J. D. Wolf and Rudolph Prokop were at the county seat yesterday making delivery of the ballots from Adams precinct.
Miss Lillian Cakl, who had been spending a few days at the Moore and Cakl home, left yesterday for Norfolk to visit with her sister, Mrs. Jack Donhover.
Misses Emma Storek and Mary Bartak our "Hello Girls" went to Omaha this morning for a few days visits.
Mesdames Frank Stodola and Jerry Cerv and John Novotny were at Omaha a few days ago attending the wedding of their niece, Miss Helen Vais. They were taken down by R. V. Prokop who also attended the wedding.
Miss Martha Vacin of Brainard is spending the week with Clarkson relatives.
November 30, 1922 - reprinted August 25, 1993W. E. Studnicka of Lincoln was here for several days this week visiting at the home of his sister, Mrs. Fanny Dvorak.
The ladies of the "500" club met last Saturday afternoon at the home of Mrs. R. M. Dutcher. Mrs. Chester Forbes carried off the first honors in card playing and the second award went to Mrs. Jos. A. Fiala The hostess also served a delicious luncheon.
Walter Wragge, who is attending the university at Lincoln, came down to attend the wedding of his sister, Emma, and while here remained for Thanksgiving.
James Fiala, Herny [sic] J. Baumert, John Folda and Jos. A. Novak were at Schuyler, Monday evening attending a meeting of the Colfax county bankers.
Dr. H. D. Myers made several calls to Clarkson the forepart of the week to the bedside of Frank Hardec, Sr. With the assistance of an Omaha physician he performed an operation on the old gentleman early Monday morning, but owing to the fact that the ailment was too far advanced, the patient was unable to survive the ordeal. He passed away the following night at the age of over seventy years.
John Folda and Jos. A. Fiala were at Omaha on Monday attending to commercial matters.
G. W. Heun and daughter, Miss Vera, were at Madison, Saturday, spending the day with G. Rex Heun. At present. Rex is managing a tire station there during the absence of the owner who is visiting at California.
Mrs. Adolph Polda came up from Lincoln Monday for a brief visiting with relatives. She returned to her home yesterday in company of John Folda and his family who will spend Thanksgiving with Mrs. Folda and her family.
Mrs. Henry Mueller and sons, Leo and Lawrence, and daughter, Loretta, of Lindsay, were here Tuesday attending the Mueller-Wragge wedding.
P. E. McKillip of Columbus was in Howells the fore part of the week on business. From here he proceeded further east into the Scribner territory where he owns several farms.
Attorney Hronek of Schuyler was in Howells, Saturday, giving attention to business matters in his line. Walter seems to be feeling very good about the result of the last election. It seems that every candidate whom he supported was elected. Believe us he works some, too and the result was a fitting reward for this efforts.
W. I. Strehle reports the sale of a brand new Ford to Mrs. Agnes Tuma. Most of the farmers are beginning to realize that the sensible car to buy is a Ford. When they desire service back of it, they buy from Strehle.
Miss Ona Bily, one of our city teachers, is enjoying a visit from two of her sisters from Pawnee City.
Herman Pojar of the Beemer neighborhood was in Howells last Monday attending to business matters.
L. R. Coufal and family visited with relatives at North Bend last Sunday.
Joe Nagengast, one of the large cattle feeders of this community received his first shipment of feeders consisting of 150 head. This is only a forerunner of what Mr. Nagengast is going to do in the line of feeding. Several other shipments are to follow. When the stock will be ready for the market it is a pretty safe prediction that they will be top-notchers.
Jos. Hraisak and Miss Tillie Semerad are planing to leave next Friday for Lewiston, Montana, for a few weeks' visit with relatives, namely the Vaclav Hruska family, former Colfax county residents. It is reported that Mr. Hruska has been seriously ill for the past few weeks.
The Third annual confetti dance given by the American Legion Saturday evening was well attended and the boys are pleased with the financial results.
J. D. Bukacek was at Schuyler Tuesday, giving his attention to some business matters.
Mike Berka of near Madison was in Howells last Monday, renewing his lease to the farm on which he is living for another year.
Jos. W., Frank J. and Mick J. Muller each purchased a fine bunch of feeders last Saturday from the Fanners Lumber and Grain Co. They were of very good quality and, no doubt, the boys will make money on them when they have fed them out.
Jos. Srb, Jr., of Clarkson was in Howells last Tuesday looking after his land interests north of town.
Thomas P. Aspinall died last Friday at the Mayo hospital following an operation for cancer of the stomach. Mr. Aspinall has always been in the best of health until recently when he was over¬taken with stomach trouble.
Three weeks ago he went to Rochester and submitted to an operation for the removal of a cancer, and his death followed last Friday. He was a former resident of this community and will be remembered by many of the older residents. Twenty years ago he left Leigh and his family have since made their home in Cherry county, this state.Leigh's pig skin pushers went to Schuyler last Friday and romped all over the county seat lads in their own back yard.
The locals started pushing the ball over the lot from the start and had two touchdowns to their credit at the end of the first half of the game. They made two more touchdowns in the second half. Captain Hahn was successful in making all four goal kicks.
Hahn and "Heavy" Craig worried the life out of the Schuyler lads with their line plunges and made them count for good gains each time. George Hall was again unfortunate in receiving injuries in this game. The Schuyler boys played a very good game for a light team. Their only touchdown was made on a play that is very questionable if the rules permit it.The large new engine for the electric light plant arrived here Wednesday afternoon and is now being put in place. A force of men are now at work putting the engine on the cement foundation which was put in place some weeks ago. The engine is a Fairbanks-Morse Y type machine, and is similar to the engine now in use at the plant with exception that the new engine is an improved model. It yet remains for the new generator to arrive, and when that is installed Leigh should have a very good electric light plant.
November 30, 1922 - reprinted November 23, 1994Frank Hradec Sr., retired Stanton county farmer and a resident of Clarkson for a number of years, laid down the burndens of this life and departed for the unknown where it is said that all become carefree and where troubles are turned into pleasures.
Mr. Hradec took sick only a few days ago with stomach trouble. His condition grew worse and as soon as it became apparent that the sands of his life are running low an operation was performed on him by a specialist from Omaha as a last resort.
He sank continuously and as the hands of the clock were slowly creeping towards the eleventh hour he quietly closed his eyes never to open them again. He was always thought to be enjoying good health until the last few days and although he received excellent medical attention, all efforts to save his life failed.
The deceased was born in Bohemia in 1851 and immigrated to America with his family in the fall of 1894, having located in Stanton county where he made his home for many years. He lived on several different places and in 1905 he purchased a farm northwest of Clarkson.
He kept on adding to his possessions as the years passed by until he became owner of a fine section of land which he later divided among his four sons and retired from active farming.
He then moved to town with the remainder of his family and with the exception of several months made his home in Clarkson. He was always a hard working man and the accumulation of his forture was a fair reward for his painstaking toils.
Besides the wife he leaves four sons, Frank, Anton, Joseph and Otto, all of this community and five daughters, Agnes, wife of Adolph Jindra, of near Clarkson; Mary, wife of Adolf Vavra, whose home is in Minnesota; Christina, wife of Anton Vyhlidal, of Pierce; Bessie, wife of Ralph Groninger, of Stanton county and Miss Julia, who is still at home. Mrs. Vavra arrived here this afternoon.
The funeral will be held tomorrow forenoon, Thursday, November 30, with services at the SS. Cyril and Methodius church where requiem mass will be read by Father Petlach. The remains will be laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery.According to the information we received from the manager of the famous Bohemian violin virtuoso, Jaroslav Kocian, who was to have appeared before the public in Clarkson, December 9, the artist will not be here as all his concert dates in the middle west have been cancelled for the present.
Whether or not Mr. Kocian will come to Clarkson later on is a matter of speculation at this time. The noted violin master was to have also given a concert at Schuyler.