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:
December 8, 1923 - reprinted February 28, 1996NOTICE: I have been appointed special agent for the Omaha Daily News and for a short time I offer the Omaha Daily News--daily and Sunday at $4.00 per year, or $6.00 for two years, a saving of $1.00 and $4.00 respectively. The regular subscription price is $5.00 per year. This offer is good for new subscriptions or renewals, and expires December 14th.
Wm. H. Roether, Schuyler, Nebraska
December 8, 1923 - reprinted March 6, 1996CLARKSON MARKET
Wheat, $.94
Corn, .48
Rye, .52
Oats, .36
Hogs, 6.10
Cream, .49
Eggs, 37-.38
Butter, .30
Ducks, .12
Roosters, .06
Springs, .13
Hens, .14
Flour, 1.70-1.90
Bran, 1.50
Shorts, 1.60Miss Esther Makovsky was a passenger to Omaha where she will spend a few days with the Skoda sisters.
Mr. and Mrs. Emil Folda motored to Wilber. At Schuyler they were joined by Mrs. F. J. Sadilek and Mrs. F. F. Mundil.
The new battery annex in the rear of the Fajman Motor Co.'s garage is completed and ready for operation. It is a strickly up-to-date station and is in charge of Otto Sobeslavsky who had the room fitted out with brand new equipment.
Messrs. Young and Zak offered a herd of fine feeders at public sale under the hammer of Col. Roether. The sale was held in the local stock yards. A large number of farmers was present and the entire lot was closed out at reasonable figures. Following is the list of buyers:
Rudolph Hobza purchased 29 head of calves at $24.50 per head; Joseph Urban, 14 calves at $30.00 per head; William Cinfel, 13 calves at $27.50 per head; Frank Cinfel, 20 steers at $45.75 per head; Jos. Lauda, 9 calves at $24.50 per head; Anton M. Novotny, 14 cows at $27.50 per head; Adolph Jindra, 11 cows at $27.00 per head. Mr. Zak informs us that he has a sufficient number of feeders on hand at all times.Mr. and Mrs. Anton Kopac of Schuyler were Clarkson visitors.
Mrs. J. L. Stransky went to Omaha where she remained. While in the city, Mrs. Stransky had the pleasure of attending several operas.
Anton Kacin, Emil Motycka and Jaroslav Gregar who constituted the force at the F. Ferenc butchershop went on strike and all three gentlemen accepted similar positions at various places in Omaha. Mr. Ferenc has made arrangements with F. J. Pimper of Howells who entered employment at his shop.
Jos. Holoubek and family were Dodge visitors, spending the day with friends.
County Agent Kuska of Schuyler was here on official business pertaining to the farm bureau. We learned from him that the country is infested with cholera and other hog diseases, causing heavying [sic] losses to a good many farmers in this county. Steps are taken to prevent further spread of the epidemic.
December 8, 1923 - reprinted April 10, 1996Father C. Z. Petlach, the beloved pastor of the Catholic congregation of this city, returned from a ten weeks' visit in the land of his birth, Czechoslovakia. Father Petlach's principal object was to visit his aged mother whom he had not seen for many years. He reports having had a pleasant trip and while on the other side of the hemisphere visited numerous places of importance in several different countries. Enroute he has met many high prelates and dignitaries of his church. His place at the local church during his absence was filled by neighboring clergymen.
On the following day of the reverend gentleman's return the parishioners of his church surprised their faithful pastor with a party, thereby expounding their respect for him and rejoice over his safe return. According to his views, Rev. Petlach found the economical conditions of the countries he has visited in a state of despair and many years will pass before normalcy can be fully restored.F. J. Richtig turned over the keys from the Richtig Bros. garage to his successor, Adolph Richtig, to whom Frank had sold his half interest in the business some time ago. Upon the entry of the new man the firm adopted a new name and will from now on be know as the Richtig Motor Co., the members of the concern being Anton Richtig and his nephew, Adolph Richtig. They will continue to do business along the same line as heretofore and aim to cover the automobile field thoroughly.
Frank J. Zrust, a young farmer of the community and tenant on the old F. Bos farm four miles southeast of town, met with an accident while returning in his automobile from town. When near the Jos. Zrust farm south of Clarkson one of his front axles gave away and the car plunged into the ditch on the side of the road. Outside of a smashed fender and the broken axle there was no other damage done and Frank, who was the only one in the car, was fortunate to have escaped unharmed.
Benjamin Gross, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Gross, residing south of Clarkson, came near losing his life. Benjamin set out to do some plowing with his Samson outfit which he had left in the field over night and as it was cold in the early morning he experienced a little trouble starting the engine. Standing directly in front of the tractor he gave it a good turn with the crank and finally succeeded in starting the motor. This through some unaccountable manner brought the tractor into motion and before Benjamin could step aside he was knocked down and the front wheels passed over his legs and body. Unshaken by the jolt and in his presence of mind he braced his feet against the bottom of the tractor and with the strength of a giant prevented the rear wheels from passing over his body by holding one side of the tractor free from the ground. How he could have escaped fatal injury remains a mystery. The tractor is said to weigh in the neighborhood of 4500 lbs. and the young man got away with only a badly wrenched back and a bruised leg. When released from his tight situation Benjamin sprang to his feet and brought the tractor to a stop. The accident was witnessed by the young man's father who stood near by.
While astride a bicycle at one time Louis Sup and Lumir Prazak ran into a barb wire fence the result of the mishap being that the Sup boy received several bad cuts on his face. His lips especially are badly cut, the infliction necessitating the attention of a physician, the services of which were rendered by Dr. Kavan. The injured boy is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Sup of this city.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Gross and little son, Allan, of near Sidney, spent the past week with local relatives and friends. They were anxious to see their home folks before Frank starts in shucking corn with [sic] according to his estimation with [sic] return a yeild of 35 to 40 bushels.
Ed Vanek of Neligh, a former Schuyler resident, was a guest at the E. Folda home, having brought down Mr. Folda who looked after the state banking commission's business at Neligh the first of the week.
Word has reached here from Lincoln that Allan Dusatko, who is attended the uni. is seriously ill with diptheria. His mother left for Lincoln and will remain with him until he gets well.
Ernest Mlnarik was out north of Creston for a day's hunt where he succeeded in bagging twenty jack rabbits. The young hunter has our thanks for one of the jacks.
F. F. Mundil and family and Miss Laura Folda motored over from Linwood and spent their Thanksgiving at the Mundil and Folda homes.
Adolph Mrsny arrived her [sic] from Hamilton, Missouri, for a visit with relatives and also to attend to business matters. Mr. Mrsny has been employed in a mercantile store at Hamilton the past several months. Mr. Mrsny and J. D. Wolf went to Hartington to attend to personal matters.
Miss Viola Suchy was a Leigh visitor visiting at the Gloser home.
Misses Helen Richtig and Elbie Hajek, teachers in districts Nos. 57 and 62, gave a joint program at the Farmers' hall. The attendance was unusually large and everyone present speaks in praising terms of the splendid program. A dance followed the program which greatly assisted the financial success of the evening. Over $200 was taken in for tickets.
December 8, 1923 - reprinted April 17, 1996The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Brdicko is seriously ill with lung fever at the family home north of town. It is reported that infant has been showing slight signs of improvement the past few days.
John and William Hamernik were at Nickerson spending the week-end with their brother, Joe, who resides near that place.
Miss Alice Schultz, Allan Dustako and possibly several other local students attending the state university at Lincoln visited. They tell us that university students were granted only one day's vacation, the furlough coming on Thanksgiving day.
Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Kriz and Rudolph Faiman were guests at the Anton Faiman home. Mr. and Mrs. Kriz returned to Hooper while Rudolph remained here until Tuesday.
Four carloads of hogs made up the past week's shipment consigned to the Omaha market thru the Farmers' Shipping association of Clarkson. Following is a list of shippers: Frank J. Zrust and Emil Trojan, one car; Chris Gross and Frank Pekny, one car; John Lacina and F. Podany, one car; and Edward Cinfel, one car.
Jos. Novotny, Jr., motored over the Oakdale to get his sister, Olga, who teaches in the city schools of that place. Miss Novotny visited with home folks. Miss Dunham accompanied Joseph to Oakdale.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Miller motored to Omaha where they remained making addition [sic] selection of stock for their funiture store. They were accompanied by Miss Ida Karel.
The following three articles were reprinted from the Schuyler Sun of December 1, 1923:
Upon complaint of Ernest Deichman, John Hyland and Ed Hall, Leigh, warrants were issued for Harry Moran, Glen Burges and Harry Jensen charging them with thefts of automobile accessories, while a dance was in progress at the Farmer's hall south of Leigh. The young men were arraigned before Judge Fiala for a preliminary hearing, pleading not guilty. Hearing was set and they again appeared before the judge voluntarily, pleading guilty. A fine of $10 and costs was assessed against each, and restitution of the property. The Judge also gave the youthful offenders a parental lecture upon the evil tendencies of the present day, admonishing them to stick close to the straight and narrow path, and the teachings of their parents.A Hudson coach was found wrecked on the north side of Brewery hill. The car was the property of A. F. Svatopolsky of Clay Center, Kansas, who has been working in Colfax county for a livestock improvement association. The cause and manner of the wreck is yet a mystery, although the threads of the story are quietly being untangled. Mr. Svatopolsky claims he put the car in the Kopac Bros. garage about eleven o'clock. He had been keeping the car in the garage and had as is usual with the firm, been loaned a pass key. When he called for the car, the Kopac force was surprised at his interrogations having been appraised of the wreck and of course supposed the owner was the driver. Svatopolsky claims the car must have been taken from the garage and members of the Kopac force cannot agree with the statement. The owner of the car carried $1,000 insurance, and officials of the company were here the fore part of the week to make settlement.
The O'Callaghan hearse and the Costello truck clashed at the corner of C and 12th streets, better known as the bank corner. The hearse had turned from the south, heading west, when the truck coming from the north at a good speed crashed into the rear section of the hearse, tearing away the running board and bending the fender over the rear wheel. The truck headlights were broken and otherwise damaged about the front. The hearse was enroute to the Fitzgerald funeral, and upon its return was sent to Omaha for repairs.
John Mussack hit a dynamite cup to see how much of an explosion it would make. His left eye was blown out and his right eye and face severely burned. Mussack lives in Stanton county and was taken to the Schuyler hospital for treatment.
While returning to town from the south on the Glencoe church road, Joe Gilsdorf, the Standard oil man, was hit by the C. & N. W. freight train. The oil truck was completely destroyed and it is a miracle how Mr. Gilsdorf escaped with his life, as it was he was cut and bruised about the head and legs and several stitches were required to close the wounds. The truck was carried for a distance of about 600 feet before the train could be brought to a stop. The train crew picked Mr. Gilsdorf up and brought him to Dodge where a doctor was called. At this writing he is reported to be resting as well as could be expected. We hope to report his complete recovery in the near future.--Dodge Criterion.
Mr. and Mrs. Will Lapour and Mr. and Mrs. James Lapour drove to Lincoln and on their return were accompanied by Mrs. John Tesar and two children who will remain here for a few weeks. John Tesar has gone to Omaha to undergo medical examination and expects to be sent to the government hospital in St. Louis for treatment.--Leigh World.
Anton Kunhart and James S. Drahota motored down to the Platte River and enjoyed their favorite sport of duck hunting. The result is that their friends are enjoying a treat, feasting on wild ducks. Yum, yum, but they were fine.
John Novotny and Albert Nagengast from near Howells autoed to the latter's farm near Dalton.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Moeller and son, Leo, of Iroquois, South Dakota, visited with their son, Otto, and family, at M. R. Rosenbery's.
The bridge gang painted the new Maple Creek bridge at Church's.
December 8, 1923 - reprinted April 24, 1996Thanksgiving day was, indeed, a very sad one and one that will remain in the memories of the Ben Steffensmeier family at Howells, when their little six-year-old son was called to the Great Beyond. The little fellow battled for several days with an acute case of scarlet fever and when hopes for his recovery began to brighten up, complications set in and there was nothing that medical science could do to save the child. A private funeral was held on Friday and the little form was laid to peaceful rest in the Oleyan cemetery. The grief stricken family has our heartfelt sympathy.
James Palik of Howells had the misfortune to meet with quite an accident last Wednesday morning while going to his place of business which has caused him a good deal of pain. Mr. Palik was walking along not knowing that Lumir Hampl was following him with his bicycle on the sidewalk. The lad ran directly into Mr. Palik causing James to fall off the cement walk and suffer a fracture of his knee. The injury is causing Mr. Palik a lot of pain and suffering and has kept him away from the store several days, having been ordered by Dr. Hebenstreit to remain at home as much as possible. Lumir is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hampl, and is no different than many other children who make it a habit to ride either on bicycles or coaster wagons on the sidewalks and endangering the safety of the people. What makes us wonder is that this practice has not been stopped or at least an effort made by the city authorities. A matter of this kind is usually left to continue until something very serious happens which arouses the public and steps are then taken to stop the nuisance. We trust that this accident will serve as a little reminder to the city officials and that they will act accordingly.
Mrs. Jos. Pekarek of Howells returned from Wheeler county where she spent several days visiting at the James Bartak home. Mrs. Pekarek went up with Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Podany of near Clarkson.
As a result of falling from a ladder at the Busch store, Pete Kulhanek of Howells will be laid up for some time with a badly sprained ankle. He is now under the care of Dr. Myers.
Miss Adella Dvorak returned home on Thanksgiving day from Omaha where she had been laid up for about ten days following an appendicitis operation. She seems to have recovered almost completely.
The W. W. grinder is certainly proving a favorite among our farmers. This grinder was introduced here only a short time ago by Baumert & Bogner at Howells and they have since sold quite a few. They sold W. W. grinders to John Tichota and Baumert Bros, of near Aloys.
Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Kunhart of Howells entertained a few of their friends at a card party at their home. Mr. and Mrs. Egon Stangel were winners of both first prizes. A similar entertainment was also given at the Jos. J. Hanzel home.
The list of Samson tractor owners is continually growing in the Howells community. John Pokorny purchased a Samson through the agency of Mestl Bros.
O. H. Moeller and family visited with his parents at Wurdemans in Leigh.
Mr. and Mrs. M. R. Rosenbery spent Sunday afternoon at the John Novotny home.
Ed. Porter, Hazel Schafer and Viola Church visited with Mr. and Mrs. O. H. Moeller.
Jos. Lauda purchased some catte at the sale in Clarkson.
Lavina Rosenbery called on her cousin, Mrs. Alice Moeller.
Below is the 1924 list of Clarkson Red Cross members handed in for publication:
Emil Folda, Mrs. Emil Folda, Anton Dusatko, Mrs. Anton Dusatko, Rev. B. A. Filipi, Mrs. B. A. Filipi, Frank Humlicek, J. M. Mundil, Mrs. J. M. Mundil, Joseph Mundil, Emil Petr, Mrs. Emil Petr, Mrs. John F. Pimper, Adolph Dudek, Justina Urban, Fred Jelinek, Mrs. Fred Jelinek, Frank Vidlak, Mrs. Frank Vidlak, A. J. Vlach, Mrs. A. J. Vlach, Frank Jonas, Anezka Jonas, Anna V. Hanel, Frances Novak.
December 13, 1923 - reprinted May 1, 1996The remains of Mrs. Frantiska Bartak were brought here on yesterday morning's passenger from Holt county for burial in the Bohemian Catholic cemetery at Howells. Mrs. Bartak was known to many of our older residents as she and her family made their home here nineteen years ago. The deceased was born in Bohemia eighty-three years ago and resided in America for forty years. The Bartak family located on the farm now owned by Mr. Jos. Pekarek south of Howells and later moved to Stanton county. Nineteen years ago the family moved to Holt county where they made their home ever since. Her husband, Chas. Bartak died twelve years ago and from that time Mrs. Bartak made her home with her sons, James and Charles. She passed away at the latter's home following a lingering illness of nearly two years. In 1922 the deceased suffered a fracture of her hip and since that time the woman was unable to have the use of her limbs. Besides her two sons, James and Charles, the deceased is survived by a host of close relatives. The funeral was held from the station to the St. John Church where services were conducted by Rev. Drbal.
Frank Dibelka of Schuyler has filed his appeal from justice court of the case wherein he is the defendant and Roy McCoy is the plaintiff. The action is the outcome of damages done to Mr. McCoy's Ford car about when both men were returning from Omaha at night. Mr. McCoy had a little trouble with his car and was looking after the same when Mr. Dibelka ran into his car from the rear. It is alleged that Mr. McCoy did not have a rear light at the time of the accident. Judge Wells allowed Mr. McCoy damages in the sum of $43.19 and also taxed the costs, amounting to $5.65 to Mr. Dibelka.--Schuyler Sun
Mr. and Mrs. Emil Hobel moved into their new home which has just been completed.
Cattle are acting strange after they have been in the stalks for several weeks, one man said it seemed as if their front legs got too long. So they walk on their ankles and knees. So far it has been mostly the cows that were affected, but now the young stock is also suffering. But so far we have heard of only one loss. John Uppfalt losing one.
December 13, 1923 - reprinted May 8, 1996Adolph Zabka of Leigh began hauling material for the erection of a new set of buildings this week which he will have erected on the 120 acres he owns adjoining his farm. This land is a part of the old Guidinger farm.
Mike Hader of Howells went to Omaha and returned in a brand new Overland touring car the sale of which he is handling for the Howells Battery Station.
The James Kuchery sale northwest of Howells was attended by a large number of farmers and bidding was brisk. The sale under the able supervision of Col. Roether brought Mr. Kuchery something like $4500.00.
Mrs. Anna Mohnsen and son, Ernest at Howells are enjoying the company of a son of Mrs. Mohnsen's sister, William Schroeder, who arrived here direct from Germany. Ernest having met him at Scribner. He is a fine specimen of young manhood and we are sure he will like America and in time become one of her valuable citizens.
Mr. Ben Koza and Miss Marie Severa were united in marriage at the St. Peter's Catholic Church in Stanton, November 28, at 9 o'clock, by Father Kannaby. The witnesses were Rudolph and Rose Severa, sister and brother of the bride.
After the ceremony a delicious four course dinner was served for the relatives and friends of the newlyweds at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Severa.
Mrs. Koza is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Severa of near Clarkson. She is a graduate of the Clarkson High School and taught in the rural schools for the past four years, where she made an excellent teacher and had many friends.
The groom is the youngest son of Mrs. Anna Koza of this city. He was employed in the Conrad Wegner machine shop, where he was a faithful and reliable workman.
Mr. Koza has prepared a new home on his mother's farm for his wife, seven miles southeast of Stanton.Ben J. Gershun purchased the residence property of M. J. Riley, which he has been occupying for the past several years at Schuyler. Mr. Gershun secured the place at a real bargain, $3,500.
Fred Asche of the Leigh neighborhood has purchased the McGaun farm several miles northeast of Columbus. The farm contains 160 acres and was pruchased [sic] at $200 per acre.
A little daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Sobota of near Heun at the Kolouch hospital in this city.
J. H. Otradovsky and daughter, Miss Margaret, escaped injury when their car collided with the slough bridge on the Colfax highway just south of the city limits. Mr. Otradovsky and daughter were returning home from a little motor trip into Butler county, and when eventide overtook them the lighting system refused to function. Miss Margaret was holding a flashlight to assist her father. When the bridge was approached the car struck the west side railing. The impact was sufficient to throw Miss Margaret through the windshield, but fortunately she escaped being cut by glass, and her only injury was loosened teeth in the lower jaw, by being thrown against the cowl. Mr. Otradovsky escaped injury. The car was so badly wrecked that it had to be towed in, although the damage is estimated at not more than $100.
Rudolph Daricek, little son and other children, and "Bill" Laudon visioned the Pearly gates when the car Mr. Daricek was driving narrowly missed a collision with No. 9 Union Pacific fast train at Schuyler. They were approaching the mill crossing from the north and did not see the train until it was almost upon them. Mr. Daricek stopped the car and the occupants jumped out. The locomotive just touched the fenders of the car. The engineer was sure the car had been hit and stopped the train, and backed up to the crossing, pleased to find that no one had been injured.
Miss Vincencia Martinek arrived here from Czechoslovakia and established her home with the Frank Truhlar family north of town, her transportaiton to this country having been financed by Vaclav Truhlar, a boyhood friend of the young lady.
Adolph Tomes, who recently returned from his western trip with the Hastings club, is confined at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Tomes, with an attack of tonsilitis. The patient is receiving medical attention at the hands of Dr. Knight.
Wedding announcements were received here by the relatives and friends of Miss Libbie Rozmarin, announcing the young lady's marriage to Elmer E. Allen. The marriage took place at Stockton, California, on Thanksgiving day, where Miss Rozmarin made her home the past two years. Mr. Allen, we are informed, is a traveling salesman and is well spoken of. The bride is a daughter of Mrs. Frank Rozmarin, a pioneer settler of this community and who recently moved from here to California.
Attorney Geo. W. Wertz went to Hartington to defend Adolph J. Mrsny, formerly of Colfax county, in district court on a charge of attempted murder. Mr. Mrsny was charged with having attempted to shoot his wife at Randolph. He was later sent to the state hospital for the insane at Norfolk. After spending fifteen months at the hospital he was released on parole. The case was dismissed for want of evidence, as the wife did not appear against the defendant. Mrs. Mrsny was granted a divorce from her husband in the district court of Cedar county. She was given custody of the two minor daughters, Gladys and Iona, and alimony in the sum of $10,000.00. The case has been appealed to the supreme court.
Messrs. John and Louis Roether and Henry Rosicky, mail carriers on Routes 4, 5, and 6, out of the Clarkson post office, invested in an unimproved 80-acre tract of land, having purchased the same from Emil Moellie of Leigh through the agency of F. C. Schultz. The land lies a mile north of town and was purchased by Mr Moellie several years ago from his brother-in-law, Jos. K. Vlach. The price paid is $150.00 per acre which is a bargain.
December 13, 1923 - reprinted May 15, 1996Louis Faltys and son, Alden, who are in the sheep business on a big scale, shipped five carloads of fattened sheep to the Chicago market last Saturday. This shipment which was their first, consisted of three regular stock cars and two double deck sheep cars. Alden accompanied the shipment to the market.
A still-born baby came to Mr. and Mrs. Anton Stepan, residing northwest of Leigh. The remains were interned in the Clarkson cemetery privately, burial being in charge of Adolph Bukacek.
December 20, 1923 -reprinted May 15, 1996The Clarkson order of the R. N. of A. held its annual meeting and elected the following officers for the coming year: Oracle, Lillian Jonas; Vice Oracle, Philomena Pimper; Past Oracle, Antonia Folda; Chancellor, Mary Filipi; Recorder, Alby Vitek; Marshal, Anna Kubik; Ass't Marshal, Katie Kopietz, Inner Sentinel, Mary E. Roether, Outer Sentinel, Katie Chleboun; Manager, Emma Fajman; Physician, Dr. Knight. Honorable officers: Faith, Bessie Roether; Courage, Josephine Moore; Modesty, Mary Dudycha; Unselfishness, Mary Simnuek; Endurance, Mary Chleboun.
CLARKSON MARKET
Wheat, $ .88
Corn, .50
Oats, .36
Rye, .50
Hogs, 6.10
Butter, .30
Eggs, .28Victor Wacha, Ted Fillipi and John Poledna visited with Jerry Polansky at Norfolk where Jerry is employed in a 10-cent store.
Mrs. Catherine Dubsky, an old time settler of this community, laid down the burdens of this life and quietly passed away at her home in the southeast part of Clarkson. The elderly lady complained of not feeling well and this shortly was followed by a stroke of paralysis. Insofar as immediate aid had been brought to her rescue she was unable to survive the shock and closed her eyes for the eternal rest at the hour of four. The funeral was held at the Catholic Church. Remains were laid to peaceful rest in the denominational cemetery adjoining Clarkson.
Mrs. Dubsky was born in Bohemia and attained the age of seventy-eight years. She came to Colfax county with her husband from her native land in the year of 1884, establishing their home in Schuyler.
Her first row in the new land came to her through the death of her husband who died at Schuyler after a residence of eight years. The widow and her children shortly after Mr. Dubsky's demise moving onto a farm in Stanton county where they made their home for many years.
Mrs. Dubsky left the farm and took up her residence in this city and has made her home here since. She was known as a good-hearted woman and remained faithful to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
Her death is mourned by two daughters, Mesdames Frank Knapp and Frank Lee, and four sons, Charles, Frank, Joseph and Emil all of whom reside in Stanton and Colfax counties.Mrs. Josie Faiman, wife of Emil Faiman, well-known automobile man, passed away in death at her home in Leigh at the hour of 11:45. Mrs. Faiman had been ailing for a long time and although she was not left wanting in the way of medical aid, all efforts to save her from the Grim Reaper proved futile. Hopes for her recovery were abandoned several weeks ago and the final crisis was awaited at every moment.
The deceased was well known in the entire north end of the county, having lived here practically all her life. For many years prior to her marriage she made her home in Howells and her mother, Mrs. Anna Warner, now deceased, made her home in Clarkson for several years.
Besides the husband she is survived by three children, two boys and one girl, whose ages range from five to twelve years. She also leaves five brothers, Charles, Rudy Victor, Louis and Emil Warner, and two sisters, Mrs. Albin Vraspir of Clarkson and Lilly Warner of Colome, South Dakota.
Services will be conducted at the family home in Leigh and the remains will be interned in the Boh. Slov. cemetery adjoining Clarkson.Adolph Lukl has placed a brand new road drag on the market of his own invention. Mr. Lukl has specialized considerably in the perfection of road machinery at his blacksmith shop for a good many years and now has a drag that is far more practical than any other drag used on the highways of our state. It is to be known as the "Colfax Drag," the name originating from Colfax county. Mr. Lukl has three drags operating on the roads of this county for the past two years and all three are giving utmost satisfaction. These drags have been seen in operation by may [sic] roadmen and now Mr. Lukl is receiving orders from other counties. He shipped a large Model 16 drag to Howard county and expects to build several more before next spring.
Frank Brabec, the young man who opened a butcher shop in the Hyland building here, loaded his furniture goods and personal effects on board of a large truck and left with his family for Prague. He turned over what supply of meat he had on hand to Frank Ferenc and left the fixtures in the building in lieu of the unpaid rent, having bound himself to the proprietor of the building for a period of two years.
It now appears that the public will be obliged to get along with one meat market in town before someone else takes hold of the opening. We are informed by John F. Pimper that he intends to start in the butcher business all over again. He expects to be ready for business by the opening of the spring season or possibly sooner.A. C. Faiman, Jos. Knipping, E. Makovsky, F. J. Wacha, J. F. Jirovec and Walter Hahn were at Howells one day attending a demonstration of the famous Neutrodyne radio set at the Pimper Battery Station. They were well pleased with the results and all are of the opinion that this set excels all other on today's market.
The Jirovec orchestra, namely, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Stransky, W. A. Karel, Leo. Zelenda, Clyde Karel and F. J. Wacha, were at Pilger furnishing music for a dance. J. F. Jirovec, the director was not able to go, and the boys were in charge of Mr. Stransky.
December 20, 1923 - reprinted May 22, 1996Mrs. F. M. May who had been visiting here at the Walter Hahn and Harry May homes left for her home at Dunlap, Iowa.
W. A. Svododa, Wm. Hahn and Walter Hahn returned from Westington, South Dakota, where they looked after the sale of corn raised on their farms in that locality. The yield of corn was very good and at the price of 52 cents per bushel they realized a satisfactory sum. F. W. Noh, who accompanied the gentlemen remained in South Dakota for a few days.
Jos. S. Severa and family of Beemer were Clarkson visitors.
Jos. V. Janecek and wife were at Pierce attending the funeral of a relative, Miss Rosie Havel, who died at the age of about twenty years. The deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Havel, old-time residents of Pierce county. They were accompanied on the trip by Albert Svododa.
Mrs. Amalie Mrstik has rented her 240-acre farm, 6 miles northeast of Clarkson, for the coming year to William Cinfel at a rental of almost $8.00 an acrea [sic].
John Ondracek whose home is in Schuyler narrowly escaped drowning in the Missouri river Monday. Mr. Ondracek was with some other workmen on a barge loaded with stone. The barge was improperly loaded and capsized with the men in the current near the Douglas street bridge between Omaha and Council Bluffs. All of the men, except Ondracek, were thrown into the current. One was drowned and the others rescued by men who were near the scene of the accident.
John saved himself by his wits. As the barge began to capsize, he kept walking on the highest edge. All of a sudden the barge capsized but he kept his balance and scurried from one edge to another of the barge like a trained seal. When the barge was upside down, he was high and dry. He says he does not know how he did it, but he knew the wood would float and the best thing for him to do was to stay with the wood. He certainly had a narrow escape as did the others who were finally rescued. Every possible effort was made to save the man who lost his life in the current.Parking spaces in the business section of Schuyler were marked last week, and henceforth motorists will be expected to observe the rules so that a greater number of cars may enjoy parking privileges downtown during the congested periods. The changed street appearance was quite noticeable. Only during rush hours will cars be permitted to park along the walks.
Albin Misek received a pen of three fine pheasants from State Warden Koster of Lincoln. There are three birds in the lot, two hens and a rooster, and it must be conceded that they are beauties. As soon as he can get around to it, Albin will turn the birds at large, this being the purpose for which they were sent to him. It is claimed that pheasants are useful to the farmer and if left alone may some day abound this country in large numbers. Anyone caught killing a pheasant in the state of Nebraska is liable for a $500.00 fine.
December 27, 1923 - reprinted May 22, 1996H. Leslie Smith, accompanied by his wife and small son and Dr. and Mrs. Zoerb left Scotsbluff by auto for eastern Nebraska, and when about twelve miles north of Kimball they were struck by another auto in passing, the Smith car going into the ditch and turning over twice. Mr. Smith suffered the fracture of three ribs, and his left arm was partly paralyzed. The rest of the party escaped with minor bruises. Mr. Smith was taken over the U.P. to Lincoln where his mother resides and where he will receive medical treatment.
Vaclav Dudycha, sr., who was found guilty of violating the prohibition law, was at Schuyler where he paid his fine. He was assessed $500, the minimum fine, which with the additional court trimmings come up to $527.00. His jail sentence was remitted on account of good behavior. Dr. Dudycha left of [sic] Oxford Junction, Iowa, for a visit with relatives.
December 27, 1923 - reprinted May 29, 1996Jake Henry, 46, parted with $115 in country [sic] court, Columbus, representing the fine imposed after state agents raided his home in Humphrey. The state agents say that Jake is building himself a new home in Humphrey with underground tunnels. They found a chicken house under construction with a basement. On the concrete floor in another outbuilding stood a stationary engine and a feed grinder. Beneath the engine the state agents said was the cutest little trap door opening into an underground tunnel which extended 20 feet or more to an excavation beneath the garage. But the search by the officers failed to bring to light a still or any large quantity of liquor except the pint of hootch found in his possession.
Jos. Budin, residing on the Frank Vesely farm seven miles northeast of Clarkson, will dispose of all his farm property at public sale on January 10. Mr. Budin and his family intend to move to Bohemia where they will locate.
Anton Prazak, who has been living on the Rozmarin place two miles northwest of Clarkson the past couple of months, returned his lease to Leonard Rozmarin this week and will leave the farm on March first. Mr. Prazak's intention is to return into the automobile business in Clarkson which occupation he has followed for many years.
Ed. Houfek, residing on the old Houfek farm one mile north and three and one-half miles west of Schuyler, will sell a part of his personal property at public sale on January 9th.
Frank L. Knapp, who has been farming on the former Holan farm two miles west of Clarkson for several years, will quit farming and will dispose of all his farm property at public sale, January 22. Mr. Knapp and his family are making arrangements to move to Omaha where they expect to locate permanently.
Chas. Nadrchal, one of the successful breeders of Poland China stock of this community, is planning on having a stock sale at his farm place southwest of Clarkson, on February 4th. He expects to have about seventy head of boars and sows in the sale ring.
Dr. Sacks of Omaha was called here last evening for consultation in regard to Mrs. Emil Petr's illness. He stated that while her condition is grave, hopes may be entertained for her recovery providing great care is exercised in caring for her. Mrs. Petr is now suffering with an attack of pneumonia in addition to the paralytic stroke which overtook her two weeks. She is now under the care of two trained nurses, Miss Alice Jonas and Miss Keller of David City.
The marriage law of Nebraska is losing this state a good deal of business while over across the Iowa boundary line at Council Bluffs, ministers and marrying judges are having a harvest. In Monday's license report we noticcd that Miss Viola Church of near Clarkson, and Bruce Millet of Albion, were among those who were married at Council Bluffs. Miss Church is a daughter of Chas. Church, a pioneer resident of this county.
On the afternoon of New Year's day, Frank Bures, brother of Stanley Bures, is to wrestle Glen Wade at Pilger. Recently Stanley wrestled with Wade in draw a match which lasted about two hours. Now comes Frank Bures, who wants to throw Wade in record time, having defeated Hasson some time ago.
December 27, 1923 - reprinted June 5, 1996John T. Lindsay of Tulsa, Oklahoma, spent a part of last week in Schuyler, and while there secured a lease on a quarter section of land in Tulsa county, owned by W. S. Jenkins of Schuyler, twenty miles from Tulsa, and ten miles from Sapulpa, which is now surrounded by producing oil wells, with a stipulation that drilling operations will be started not later than March 6, 1924.
Mr. Jenkins was given $20 per acre for the lease for one year. Should the drilling operations prove successful, the lease becomes permanent, if not, the lease expires at the close of a year.
Mr. Jenkins believes that oil will be found under his land. He has another tract of 200 acres adjuoining the leased quarter, and negotiations are under way for to [sic] cover this tract also, but the deal has not as yet been closed.
Mr. Jenkins feels that he has been well repaid for his investment in Oklahoma. He originally paid $27 per acre for the tract. He has had it quite a number of years, and sold off a 40 acre tract for a good price permitting a pipe line to pass thru that locality. He then purchased another 40 acres, leaving him the original number of acres, but really better land than his first purchase. With a lease of $20 per acre on the premises, and with a good prospect of a perpetual income, for many years at least, Mr. Jenkins is willing to agree that prosperity is just around the corner, and winking at him.The entire community of Schuyler was grievously shocked when it was learned that John Prokes, a prominent citizen of Schuyler had passed away at Los Angeles. Mr. and Mrs. Prokes and their granddaughter, Miss Beatte Dworak, left for Los Angeles to spend the remainder of the winter. They arrived in Los Angeles Friday. Word was received by Mr. Prokes' relatives on Monday afternoon informing them that he had suffered a stroke of apoplexy and that his condition was serious. Another telegram a little later stated that his condition was somewhat improved. Mr. Prokes suffered a relapse and passed away,.
Before leaving for California, Mr. Prokes seemed to have a premonition that he would not return to Schuyler. He suffered a slight stroke last spring just before he and Mrs. Prokes returned from Florida where they spent the winter.
Mr. and Mrs. Prokes have spent the past few winters in California and Florida. Mr. Prokes was a retired Schuyler business man having conducted a meat market here a number of years ago. He was president and director of the Schuyler State bank, a director of the Schuyler Savings bank and a director of the Richland State bank. The surviving relatives are widow, two sons, Lewis and John A., and one daughter, Mrs. W. A. Dworak, and one brother, F. W. Prokes, all of this city.Mrs. W. E. Sigler passed away at their farm home east of Schuyler following an illness of about a year due to arterial selerosis, Mrs. Sigler returned from Omaha where she spent seven weeks at the Methodist hospital receiving treatment for her ailment. Mrs. Sigler was confined to her bed. She was given the very best of expert medical skill in hopes of saving her life. She was patient sufferer and was never known to murmur a complaint because of her prolonged illness.
Agnes, the ten year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. J. Ondracek, died at the home north of Schuyler of diptheria. Other children in the family are also afflicted.
The Peters Trust Company of Omaha has instated foreclosure procedings against Charles Cain and Anne Cain. The amount involved is $14,000.00 and accumulated interest as a first mortgage and a second of approximately of $27,000.00.
County Clerk Severyn informs us that Colfax county received an income of $909 from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses the past year.
Albin Misek turned out the three pheasants he received last week from the state husbandry department on the Ed Arnold farm nine miles north of Clarkson. Mr. Arnold has promised to see to it that the birds are not molested in any way by lusty hunters.
December 27, 1923 - reprinted June 12, 1996On Saturday forenoon at about eleven o'clock a.m. a report came to town that a horrible accident occurred on the railroad crossing near the former Guidinger farm three miles west of Clarkson, which resulted in the death of John Pospichal sr., a prominent resident of this city, and in seriously injuring his twelve-year-old son, Ladislav. Mr. Pospichal and his son left home in the early morning in quest of a piece of walnut timber for the stock of a shot gun which they were told they could obtain at the John Sucha farm in Wilson precinct. On their way back home as they approached the railroad crossing their Ford Sedan was struck by the east-bound passenger train No. 310. The car was hurled into a distance of several yards and reduced to a heap of worthless junk. The shock resulted in the instantaneous death of Mr. Pospichal who did not utter a single word when picked up. The boy was lucky to escape death and his injury is not considered serious.
The train, in charge of Conductor W. G. Gallop with Engineer P. J. Welch, of Council Bluffs, at the throttle, was traveling at a rate of between 35 and 40 miles an hour when the crash came. It is claimed by the train crew that proper signals were given by the engineer at a reasonable distance from the crossing, but neither the driver of the ill-fated car nor the engineer observed the impending danger until only a few feet apart. It was then too late to ward off the accident. The automobile is said to have been driven by the boy and Mr. Pospichal occupied the rear seat.
Facts of the accident are now becoming collected by the railroad company, several officials having been delegated here for this purpose the forepart of this week.
Following the accident the prostrate body and the injured boy were taken on the train, which was soon brought to a stop, and taken to town. Upon their arrival here the remains were placed in charge of an undertaker and the young man's injury was looked after by Dr. Knight. The boy was able to walk home slowly the next day and although he is still confined to his home, his injury is not of a serious nature.
The railroad right-of-way on the west side of the crossing is obstructed from view by good-sized banks and was shown upon as a dangerous place. The matter was taken up with railroad authorities at numerous times but very little was accomplished in this respect. This is said to have been the second or third accident to have occurred at this particular point the past two decades and it is about time that steps be taken to avert further tragedies of this kind.
Mr. Pospichal had been a resident of this community for almost forty years. He was born in Moravia on the 2nd day of January 1861. He spent his boyhood days in the land of his birth and in the year of 1885 came to this country. Having heard the call of the West where vast opportunities were foresought, he came directly to Colfax county and after a residence of three years was united in marriage to Miss Emilia Stodola. Mr. and Mrs. Pospichal established their home on a farm seven miles south of Clarkson which they later sold and purchased a place on the extreme south boundary line of Stanton county, north of Clarkson. Here they made their home until last March. Placing their son, John, in charge of the farm, Mr. and Mrs. Pospichal moved to town with their remaining children and took possession of the former Chas. Kamensky property in the east part of this city. Mr. Pospichal was an ambitious man and for many years was in the well and moving business in connection to his farm pursuits. Through this line of occupation he has won a wide reputation and was well known. He found inspiration in his work and being possessed of an honest upright character, he shared the respect of all with whom he come into contact.
The funeral was held from the family home with requiem mass at the C. & M. Catholic church, celebrated by Father Petlach, from where the remains were placed into the Catholic cemetery. A very large assemblage of friends and relatives congregated at the last rites to pay homage. The funeral procession was escorted by the Catholic Workmen order of which the deceased had been a member of good standing for many years.
Besides the widow, Mr. Pospichal leaves three sons, and eight daughters, namely Joseph and John, farmers of this community; Ladislav at home. Emilie, wife of Frank Suchan, Leigh; Frances, wife of Henry Lhotak of near Dodge; Matilda, wife of Jos. Kalisek of near Howells; Agnes, wife of John Mlnarik of the Howells-Dodge locality; Anna, Mayme, Lillian and Blanche, at home. He also leaves a brother, Joseph, of Garber, Oklahoma, who was here in attendance at the funeral, and a sister, residing in Minnesota. The bereaved have our sincere sympathy.Jos. F. Vitek and his family arrived here from Chariton, Iowa, for a week's visit with relatives and friends. Joe has recently sold out his hotel business in Chariton and is now taking life easy.
Frank V. Uridil was down from Pender visiting with relatives. Frank drove over with Ladislav Brich of Pender, who brought Miss Blanche Humlicek over, the young lad remaining here for the year-end holidays.
Emil Sindelar, living northwest of Clarkson, reports the loss of a valuable milk cow caused by the wanton carelessness of hunters. The party that committed the act for fear of being exposed covered the dead animal with dry leaves and grass in an endeavor to keep the misdeed secret as long as possible. Emil made a search all over the neighborhood for the missing cow and later found the animal in the pasture.
Anton Rychtig moved his houshold from the Jos. Rychtig home in the south part of town which he has been occupying for several years into the residence property belonging to the estate of the late Catherine Dubsky.
Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Hyland and daughters of Leigh were at Columbus to attend a birthday party in honor of Mrs. Hyland's mother, Mrs. Mary Ternes. A birthday cake bearing 75 candles graced the center of the table. A sister and brother of Mrs. Hyland were also present for the occasion.
December 27, 1923 - reprinted June 19, 1996P.H.L. Meyer of Columbus, who recently returned from Germany after selling his farm which he bought there two years ago and investng the $50,000 proceeds in socks so he could get the money out of the country has received work [sic] from the factory at Chemnitz, Germany, where the order for the socks was placed, that the entire consignment has just been shipped, billed to Chicago, where they will be held by the customs officials until Mr. Meyer claims them and pays the duty which will amount to nearly another $25,000. The shipment comprises more than 8,000 dozen of men's, women's and children's socks and stockings. Mr. Meyer made a trip to Omaha, Chicago, Kansas City and St. Joe in quest of a market for the socks. He found several prospective customers, but says he can't close with any of them until the goods arrive so he can show them. The bank in Chemnitz in which Mr. Meyer deposited his $50,000, pending the filling of the order by the factory, charged him $250 commission for taking care of his money for a few weeks, in advising him of the shipment of the socks, the factory wrote that its employees would like to have him send them a consignment of lard, flour and certain other foodstuffs which are difficult to procure there and would pay for it with socks. Mr. Meyer says, however, that he isn't looking for any more hosiery. All he wants now is to get his money out of the $50,000 worth of socks he owns and invest it in Platte county farm land.