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:
January 4, 1923 - reprinted November 17, 1993Mrs. Petr Zak was at Schuyler the latter part of the previous week, having a growth removed from her forehead at the local hospital.
The growth proved to be a cancer and as it was yet in its primary stage it is hoped that the operation will prove successful.A Bohemian Play entitled “Zavet” will be presented at the Clarkson Opera House on January 6.
The play deals with the probation of a last will left by a wealthy peasant in the old country. The plot is intensely interesting and will please all. A social dance will be given after the play.Mr. and Mrs. James Jura and John Cernin and his wife left for Rochester, Minnesota, to consult the famous Mayo doctors, relative to an ailment of the head which has been causing Mr. Cernin considerable trouble of late.
While there Mrs. Jura may submit to an examination in hope of relieving her rheumatic trouble with which she has been suffering for a number of years.Death entered the family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vnuk and suddenly called away their only son, Frankie, aged five years.
Mrs. Vnuk was formerly Miss Lillie Dlouhy of Howells. During the past two years Mr. and Mrs. Vnuk made their home at Kimball, this state, and since Christmas are visiting with relatives at Clarkson, Howells, and Dodge.
Mr. Vnuk’s parents live at Dodge and Mrs. Emil Pokorny of Clarkson, is a sister of Mrs. Vnuk.
At present they are visiting at Dodge and it is there that the youngster took sick. He first got the mumps and as the disease progressed other complications set in and nothing could be done to spare the little fellow’s life. It is a painful blow for the heart broken parents who have the sincere sympathy of their friends in this their sorrowful hour.Frank Cinfel of Haugen, Wisconsin, arrived here to attend the funeral of his father-in-law, John Kabes. Mr. Cinfel is the cousin of the Cinfel boys and before moving to Wisconsin about twenty years ago was employed at the Wisherd ranch. It is needless to say that he sees many changes.
Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Zak of Dodge welcomed their first-born baby, a girl, the fore part of the past week. Jerry is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Petr Zak of this city and until recently was manager of the Nye Schnieder Jenks yards at Dodge.
Lambert Malena traded his eighty northwest of Clarkson with Emil Pavlis from whom he took into his possession the 160-acre farm Emil owned five and a half miles east of Madison, paying the difference in cash.
Vincene Hejtmanek became owner of the J. W. Higgins farm of 160 acres in Shell Creek precinct, two miles west of the Bissel store.
Prof. and Mrs. R. B. Hohn returned home from their visit with Mrs. Hohn’s parents at Brighton, Illinois. Owing to a train wreck their train from St. Louis arrived too late at Omaha to make connections with the local passenger and they were obliged to take the U.P. to Schuyler and from there drove home overland.
Clarkson Markets: wheat - $.98, oats - $.32, corn - $.52, butter - $.30, eggs - $.30 -$.20, hogs -$7.60.
A Big Mask Ball will be given by the Clarkson Band on Saturday, January 13 at the Clarkson Opera House.
Prize will be awarded. Admission: masks -$1; Gents - $.75; Ladies -$.25; Children - $.25.While driving in the vicinity of Stanton the fore part of this week, Miss Louise Phelps had the misfortune of wrecking her Ford. The top and windshield are a total loss but Miss Phelps was lucky to escape with only a few bruises.
Public sales will be held by Rudolf Hamsa, John and Jerry Teply, Frank J. Belina, Vaclav Severa, and Jos. Franek.
At a special meeting of the Clarkson fire department, bids were opened for a new auto chassis. Eleven bids were filed with the secretary by the following firms: Fajman Motor Co., Ritchig Bros., J. R. Vitek and Bros., and Kopac Bros.
The department is figuring on buying a chassis with a large enough capacity for equipping it with all fire fighting apparatus used on modern trucks.
The committee appointed for this purpose is considering several bids but as yet no purchase was made.The Leo. L. Wolff sale held in Howells was attended by a large number of buyers and as usual with Col. Roether having charge of it everything sold brought a fancy price.
Mrs. Frank Dickey of Howells was confined to her bed with illness for a few days this week. She was attended by Dr. Hebenstreit and is now well on the road to recovery.
Jerry Hulbocky of Howells is at present at Excelsior Springs, Missouri, receiving treatment for rheumatism.
Anna May, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Cihacek of Howells, has been laid up with mumps the last several days.
Miss Tillie Karel of Howells, returned from a several day’s visit at Clarkson. On her return trip she was accompanied by her cousin Irma Karnik.
Chris Strehle and E. L. Gruntoard of Howells, motored over to Fremont where business matters were the object of their presence in that city.
The dance given at the Bohemian National hall in Howells was attended by a large crowd and all those present report a most enjoyable time.
Dr. Hebenstreit was called to Dodge, and while there presented Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Zak with a baby boy.
Geo. W. Heun of Howells was a passenger to Fremont, returning home the same day.
Mrs. Steve Stanek and children of Lindsay are visiting in Howells at the home of Mrs. Stanek’s mother, Mrs Jos. F. Krajicek and other relatives.
January 4, 1923 - reprinted July 20, 1994 and December 28, 1994Otto Hellbusch, 29, residing near Creston was committed to the state hospital at Norfolk for treatment by order of the insanity commission.
The unfortunate young man has been brooding of late over what he imagined to be his sins. Several weeks ago he caused relatives and friends much anxiety when he abandoned his car in the road several miles from home and spent the night sleeping in a hay stack in an adjoining field.
More recently he attempted to take his own life by cutting a hole in the ice in a creek near home and lying down in the shallow water.
When examined by the commission, he admitted the effort to drown himself in expiation of his fancied sins, but said he gave up the attempt because the water was so cold. It is hoped that a period of treatment in the state hospital may restore him to health.Early Wednesday morning death entered the family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vnuk and suddenly called away their only son, Frankie, aged five years.
Mrs. Vnuk was formerly Miss Lillie Dlouhy of Howells. During the past two years Mr. and Mrs. Vnuk made their home at Kimball, this state, and since Christmas are visiting with relatives at Clarkson, Howells and Dodge.
Mr. Vnuk's parents live at Dodge and Mrs. Emil Pokorny of Clarkson, is a sister of Mrs. Vnuk. At present they are visiting at Dodge and its there that the youngster took sick.
He first got the mumps and as the disease progressed other complications set in and nothing could be done to spare the little fellow's life. It is a painful blow for the heart-broken parents who have the sincere sympathy of their friends in this their sorrowful hour.
January 11, 1923 - reprinted November 24, 1993The biggest and grandest bazaar ever held at Clarkson is to take place here Saturday, January 20, under the auspices of the Z.C.B.J. order.
Articles of every description will be placed on sale during the afternoon. A supper will be served. In the evening a social dance will be given. The bazaar is given for the benefit of the opera house. The cause is a good one and is worthy of support.John Havel and Miss Blanche Nebola slipped a march on their friends and were quietly married before the county judge at Madison.
The bridegroom is a son of Wencil Havel, a pioneer resident of this community now residing with his son north of Leigh. John is a young man of exemplary habits. For a while he held the position of second man at the local light plant and of late had been keeping himself on the farm.
The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Nebola of this city. She is a fine young lady and possesses many virtues that promise to make her an affectionate housewife.
They will establish their home on the Dill eighty eleven miles north of Clarkson.Mr. and Mrs. Anton Podany were passengers to Omaha where Anton submitted to a government medical examination.
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Arnold greeted a fine baby boy at their home north of town.
Clarkson Markets: wheat-$1.00; oats-$.34;corn-$.56;rye-$.68;hogs-$7.70; Butter-$.30; eggs-$.30-$.20.
Miss Emma Maliha, the obliging saleslady at the J.F. Pimper store, decided to enter into business on her own account.
She purchased the entire stock of notions, stationery and chinaware carried by her employer. She will continue to conduct the department in the sale building exclusive of the other line handled by Mr. Pimper who will devote all his time to the butcher and grocery business.The Degree of Honor order held its annual meeting and elected the following officers for the current year: Past president, Mary Teply; president Hermie Kabes; vice president Mary Filipi; mistress of rituals, Clara Lopour; secretary, Anna Koza; accountant, Frances Filipi; treasurer, Josie Novotny; escort, Mary Houfek; sentry, Anna Holoubek; board of trustees, Mary Teply and Josie Bukacek; physicians, Dr. Kavan and Knight.
Installation of the officers were performed immediately after the election upon the completion of which Mesdames Louis Kabes and B. A. Filipi served an appetizing lunch.At their annual meeting, The Royal Neighbors elected the following officers for the present year; Mrs. Adolph Lukl, oracle; Mrs. Ed Hobza, vice oracle; Mrs. F. J. Miller, recorder; Mrs. J. R. Vitek, receiver; Kate Chelboun, chancellor; Mrs. Jos. Roether, marshal; Kate Kopietz, inner sentinel.
The ladies of the G.M.C. met at the home of Mrs. Richard Karel when they were delightfully entertained by the hostess. After some time, had been devoted to needlework a few word contests were given. At the conclusion of his [sic] amusement everyone joined in singing several new songs with Mrs. Ernest Hamsa at the piano. The business session was followed by the serving of toothsome refreshments by Mrs. Karel. The ladies were pleased to welcome Mrs. Cakl as a new member of their club at this meeting.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Indra moved to town from their farm southwest of Clarkson and went to housekeeping in the rooms over the Karel store.
Thomas Bos took charge of the farm and will work the same this year.The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Zak of Dodge will be grieved to learn of the death of their infant child born to them last week.
Frank Vlach, president of the Leigh State bank, invested in 120 acres of unimproved land north of Leigh, having purchased the same from Frank Hledik.
Mrs. John J. Dudycha and children moved to Leigh and took possession of the Kenfield cafe and restaurant which her husband purchased there. Mr. Dudycha will follow his family after disposing of he [sic] farm property.
Mrs. Jos. L. Sinkula of Schuyler, who is well known in Clarkson and Howells, met with a painful accident which resulted in the fracture of her collar bone. She had the misfortune of tripping over a wire while feeding chickens.
The local Ford agency, Prazak Motor Co., has been enjoying an unusually brisk business during the mid-winter season which has generally been considered a dull period in the automobile line.
They made the following sales since our last report: Fordson tractor to James R. Kucera, Howells; Ford coupe to Joseph Zak, Clarkson; Ford touring car to Mrs. Emma Navrkal, Jos. R. Kunhart and Jacob Ritzdorf. They also sold a used Ford runabout to Albert VanOyen of Leigh.Our attention was called to the list of contestants in the Omaha Daily News subscription contest wherein we see the names of W. W. Luxa heading the list with a goodly margin. Mr. Luxa and his sons, Louis and Joseph, are out early and late soliciting subscriptions and are meeting with remarkable success. From the looks of things they have a splendid chance of winning out.
Frank Belina, living southeast of town had a successful farm sale. Although it was not a very large sale everything sold real well and Frank is fully satisfied.
Mrs. Emil Folda left for Oswega, Oregon, to join her husband who has been there for some time looking after the opening of a new bank at that place. Before returning home, Mr. and Mrs. Folda will also visit in California.
Frank Kment and Emil Valish, prominent farmers of the Schuyler vicinity, were here on a business mission.
January 11, 1923 - reprinted July 27, 1994It becomes our painful duty to chronicle the sudden demise of Joseph Ruskamp, whose earthly sojourn ended on December 31 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Kasmeier where he was taken after an automobile mishap which occurred on December 26.
The deceased was returning from a visit at Howells and nearing home overturned with the car and sustained injuries which resulted in his death.
He was born in Germany and attained the age of 61 years, four months and ten days.
He is survived by one brother, Lawrence Ruskamp, of this vicinity, and many ties as yet in the land of his birth.
The funeral was conducted Tuesday for the Church of Sacred Heart at Olean Han [sic] with interment in the cemetery adjoining.The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Zak of Dodge will be grieved to learn of the death of their infant child born to them.
The funeral will be held at Dodge.John Havel and Miss Blanche Nebola slipped a march on their friends and were quietly married before the county judge at Madison.
The bridegroom is a son of Wencil Havel, a pioneer resident of this community, now residing with his sons northwest of Leigh.
John is a young man of exemplary habits. For a while he held the position of second man at the local light plant and of late had been keeping himself on the farm.
The bride is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos Nebola of this city. She is a fine young lady and possess[es] many virtues that promise to make her an affectionate housewife.
They will establish their home on the Dill eighty, eleven miles north of ClarksonMrs. John J. Dudycha and children moved to Leigh last week and took possession of the Kenfield cafe and restaurant which her husband purchased there sometime ago.
January 18, 1923 - reprinted December 8, 1993The term of district county court in and for Colfax County will convene at the new courthouse with District Judge A. M. Post of Columbus on the bench. This will be the first jury term of the district court to be held in the new courthouse.
The following named persons have been selected to serve as jurors a [sic] this term of court: A.M. Bailey, Emil Bakenhus, Ed. Bausch, John J. Booth, Henry Brester, James Brennen, Adolph Buresh, John F. Cejda, John Dobes, Frank A. Dvorak, Hector Trnest [sic], Jerome Faltys, George Folken, Silas Foust, Ernest Gaeth, Charlie Grotelueschen, Arthur Hahn, John Healy, Louis Houfek, Joseph Janecek, Herman Klug, Henry Legband, Joe Brumm and John P. Muller. Said jurors are summoned to be present in the court room.
A representative of the Bureau of Naturalization will be present at which time petition for naturalization will be heard. All petitioners should be present with their witnesses, unless they have been instructed that their witnesses have been excused at a previous hearing. If the witnesses have been excused, only the petitioners is necessary to be present. There are but fifteen petitions for naturalization now pending in this court.The second masked ball of the season will be given at Clarkson by the Woodmen of the World. $31.00 in prizes will be given away. Don't get the date confused. This will be the biggest mask ball of the season.
One of the biggest land deals that ha [sic] been transacted within the past year was reported yesterday when George Henzler, Sr., purchased what is known as the H.J. Manske 160 acres farm of the owner, P. A. Kirch for $245 per acre.
It seems to be that the supposition of many that the high tension electric line now being erected from Scribner to Clarkson will prove detrimental to the birds and other inhabitants of the air. This is not so as no harm can be done to our feathery friends by alighting on the charged wires. The only danger is [sic] this case could be when the wires come in contact with the ground and form a circuit. Our village dads were kept busy the past few days answering questions on this subject and believe that the best way of informing the public of the truth is by placing it in the paper. The birds are absolutely safe as far as the high tension line is concerned.
The Vinc. Hejtmanek 80 acres seven miles south of Clarkson, which but recently passed into the hands of M. B. Higgins, was sold to Ludwig Cech. Consideration was $180.00 per acre.
Ex-service men Messrs. William A. Karel, Jos. B. Makovsky, Jos. W. Knipping, Gus B. Fajman and Albert O'Brien were at Norfolk representing the local American Legion post at the district convention. They report an enthusiastic meeting. Twenty chapters of the third district were represented by a delegation of over 300. Various matters pertaining to the Legion were discussed among which was the outline of the 1923 program, "Service for World's War Veterans". The business session was then followed by a social entertainment. State Commander J. Ed. C. Fisher and F. B. O'Connell, state adjutant, were also present and addressed the convention.
One of the features was a big banquet given in honor of the veterans after the meeting by the Women's Auxiliary of Norfolk. Among the special guests taking part in the feast were members of the Lions and Rotary clubs, Chamber of Commerce and city council. Our buddies speak of a good time.James Jirovec came near having a serious accident when returning from the Franek sale. At one of the cross roads Mr. Jirovec ran into a ditch where the car turned over. Mr. Jirovec escaped injury and the car was only slightly damaged.
The threshing outfit placed on public sale by the Maple Creek Threshing Co. of Stanton county was purchased by Frank Lacina, one of the members of the company. The purchase price was $400.00. It is understood that the company disbanded and its place will be taken up by two individual units.
Last Sunday was a red letter day for the Jirovec orchestra. They filled the air with music that was heard all over the state and possibly in several adjoining states. It was the day set for broadcasting a musical program from the Norfolk Daily News radio station at Norfolk.
The day was ideal for radio reception and the music came in loud as if you sat near a talking machine. After the first selection calls came in at the radio station from all over, making requests for special numbers and praising the orchestra for the splendid rendition of their musical selections.
This was the largest audience the orchestra has ever had the opportunity to entertain. Even though it was an invisible gathering, it is estimated that over 5000 people heard the program.The mask ball given by the Clarkson band went on record as one of the greatest successes of its kind. Judging from the sale of admission tickets at the entrance fully 750 people attend.
Receipts showed there were 723 ticket sold at the cash window. Of this number 301 were gent admissions, 384 ladies and children admissions, and 38 mask admissions, aggregating the snug sum of almost $360.00. This amount is exclusive of the receipts taken in at the lunch tables and back of the bar.
The crowd literally over flowed the spacious hall and came from a distance of many miles. Twenty-five dollars in prizes were distributed among the best mask representations as follows: first prize, $10.00, was awarded to Mrs. Jos. Krobot of Schuyler and her brother, Wm. Kral, representing a "Coal Miner and Guardian Angel"; second prize, $8.00, was captured by the "Jirovec Orchestra a comical proxy featured by Misses Alma and Mary Karel, Loretta Miller and Anna A. Karel. Third prize, $5.00 was awarded to Mrs. Jos Roether and Miss Rosie Pacas, posing as "Feather Strippers"; fourth prize, $2.00, went to Miss Agnes Krofta who impersonated a "Coquette".
January 18, 1923 - reprinted August 3, 1994The Vinc. Hejtmanek eighty seven miles south of Clarkson which but recently passed into the hands of M.B. Higgins, was sold last Monday to Ludwig Cech.
Consideration was $180.00 per acre.
It was strictly a cash deal and Mr. Cech has an exceptionally good buy at the price he paid.James Jirovec came near having a serious accident Tuesday evening when returning from the Franek sale.
January 25, 1923 - reprinted December 15, 1993Through the efforts of Wm. Gadke the Humphrey Concert band has been offered the opportunity to play at the Norfolk Daily News broadcasting station in the near future. The boys are now planning a program and will some Sunday afternoon go up to Norfolk and play the program for the radio fans of the country.
Prazak Motor Co. reports the following sales since their last report of two weeks ago:
Ford Sedan - Alois Smejkal, Clarkson. Ford Touring - Rudolph J. Severa, Tom Bos, Clarkson; George Severa, Leigh. Ford truck - Rudolph Cada, Clarkson. Fordson - R. Kuzelka, Dodge, Frank S. Novotny, Clarkson.The folly of driving without lights caused Charles Vais of near Heun and Frank Husak, a young farmer from the Leigh neighborhood to collide with their automobiles late last nite on the Colfax Highway.
The accident occurred at about 11:00 o'clock on the bend adjacent to the Chas. Novotny farm, six miles southeast of Clarkson, and both drivers and the occupants of the cars came near paying the mishap with their lives.
Vais was accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Mike Vais. and Miss Irma Vanderbeek occupied a seat in the Husak car. It is claimed that Vais was driving on the wrong side of the road when he noticed the approaching automobile and as he attempted to cross to the right side the cars met in a head on collision. Both vehicles are badly damaged, the Vais car being beyond repair. In the compact, Mrs. Vais was severely cut about her face from the flying glass and the other occupants were fortunate to have escaped with only minor bruises. Both cars were Fords and either one did not have lights, according to the report reaching this offer [sic].The high school basketball team met its first defeat in the game with Clarkson at the local gymnasium. The Creston team was tied with the visitors once in the first half but could not get in the lead. One interesting thing about the game was that Clarkson had a lead of four points at the end of the first half and in the second half increased their lead by the same margin. The final score was 22 to 30.
Good work was shown by all the players but that of the two guards, Moran and Knight, deserve special mention. They did good work in guarding the Clarkson forwards. A Columbus referee was engaged for the game but as he did not show up the Clarkson coach refereed one half and Frank Reming the other half.
After the game Mrs. O.W. Hahn entertained the players at her home.The second mask ball of the season will be given at Clarkson by the Woodmen of the World, Saturday, January 27, $31.00 in prizes will be given away. Don't get the date confused. This will be the biggest mask ball of the season.
Mrs. Frank J. Vidlak entertained the Kensington ladies and their husbands at a card party. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Fajman, Mr. and Mrs. F.J. Miller, Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Jirovec, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Fajman, Mr. and Mrs. E.J. Cekal, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. A. Svoboda, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Karel, Mr. and Mrs. Wm A. Karel, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hahn, Mr. and Mrs. John P. Schaffer, Mr. and Mrs. William Schultz, Mr. and Mrs. F.C. Kratochvil, Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Kocum, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. O'Brien. Mrs. Jos. J. Karnik was present as a guest. Wm. Svoboda won first men's prize, while the booby, went to John F. Schaffer. Ladies' prize was won by Mrs. Walter Hahn and the booby by Mrs. W. A. Karel. An intermission in card playing was allowed for a feast.
Mrs. Roy Bledsoe may die and her husband Roy Bledsoe will be a cripple for life as the result of an explosion of a kerosene can in the Bledsoe farm home, eight miles northeast of Stanton. Both are at a local hospital where burns are described as terrible, Mrs. Bledsoe's body is covered with burns, Bledsoe's hands are burns to a crisp, his hair burned off his head, his legs are seared and there are other painful burns on his body.
Mrs. Bledsoe started to light the fire in the farm home and uncorked the kerosene can. The can had been tightly corked and some gas had generated in it. The moment she ignited a match there was a terrific explosion and immediately her clothing caught fire.Efforts are being made at Schuyler to change the course of the Lincoln highway so that it will run along the north border of the town to the first crossing beyond and then swing south to the present east and west route. In favor of the plan, it is contended that the necessity of crossing railroad tracks will be done away with by the new route. Schuyler merchants it is said prefer to retain the old route which brings Lincoln highway tourists through the business section.
The bazaar, supper and dance given and the benefit of the Z.C.B.J. opera house here was a success in the true meaning of the word. A large crowd attended all three functions and the many useful articles exhibited for sale were sold in record time at satisfactory prices. Thirteen hundred dollars lacking but a few dollars were realized from the affair, the clear proceeds of which will be turned into coffers of the opera house and will be applied on the debt remaining due of the hall.
Town property was sold to Emil Tomes, Jos. Janda, and Henry Janda.
The farm home Mr.and Mrs. John Fiser, ten miles north of Clarkson was the scene of a pretty wedding, when their daughter, Mary, was given in marriage to Robert J. Hrouda. The blissful ceremony was performed at the Stanton county courthouse at Stanton by the county judge.
Escorting the bridal pair were Misses Elsie Hrouda, sister of the bridegroom, and Frances Fiser, sister of the bride, and Messrs. Jos. Hrouda, brother of the bridegroom and Jos. Luxa, cousin of the bridegroom.
Following the ceremony the happy party returned to the Fiser farm where they were awaited by a bountiful feast and a large number of relatives. The bridegroom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. R. Hrouda of near Dodge and for the past several years was engaged in farming in Stanton county. He is model young man and like his charming companion has a large host of admiring friends. After the repast at the bride's home the entire gathering departed for the Hrouda farm where a dance was held in honor of the nuptial event. Music of the dance was supplied by the Jirovec orchestra of Clarkson. Mr.and Mrs. Hrouda will establish their home on a farm about twelve miles northwest of Clarkson.
January 25, 1923 - reprinted December 29, 1993Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Spindler arrived in Clarkson from Park Lake, Wisconsin and expect to locate here permanently. They will keep house with Mrs. Spindler's father, Vincent Klat. Mr. Spindler reports that labor conditions in northern Wisconsin have reached an acute stage and many people are left without employment. He was employed in a saw mill at Park Lake. Mrs. Spindler formerly was Miss Rosie Klat.
Reports from the bedside of Mrs. A.J. Podany who underwent an operation at Omaha for appendicitis recently are most encouraging. The patient is recuperating at the St. Joseph's hospital.
Mrs. Anton Faiman is an Omaha visitor since Sunday having gone down in company of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Kriz who visited at the Faiman home.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kadlee, residing southwest of Clarkson, celebrated their silver-wedding anniversary. A large number of relatives and friends were present.
The 30th anniversary of the local J.C.D. lodge was observed Sunday afternoon. A banquet and special program were the principal features of the commemoration. The function was largely attended by the members.
Clerk of District Court F. R. Moore of Schuyler appeared before a class of applicants for citizenship papers appeared here. The hearing was held during the session of night school at the high school building and was for the purpose of discussing the more important points appearing in the naturalization law. Several declearants applying for citizenship papers were questioned.
Edward Balak and his brother, Adolph, of near Dodge, were here Saturday, attending the R. Hamsa sale of Poland China brood sows. Being well pleased with the stock they purchased several head.
Mr. and Mrs. Louis Busch and Ben Parr of Stanton county motored to Schuyler, Friday.
Wm P. Bakenhus of Leigh was at Kennard, Nebraska, the other day inspecting the famous herd of Polled Shorthorns belonging to Stewart and Son. While there Mr. Bakenhus purchased several head of extra fine Shorthorns. Among this bunch is a two-year-old champion heifer and a yearling bull, which was prize-winning in four states, Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa and at the International Stock Show in Chicago. Mr. Bakenhus is doing good business with his Polled Shorthorns and was successful in selling quite a number of bulls lately. With this valuable addition he will have one of the best heads of Polled Shorthorns in the state.
A card party given by the Ladies' Altar society at the St. John's Catholic church in Howells was attended by a large number of people. After a couple of hours of card playing a dainty lunch was served by the ladies. Following this there was a dance which lasted until midnight, the music being supplied by the Sindelar orchestra.
Walter Wragge and Randolph Mestl of Howells, who are attending the state university at Lincoln were visitors with home folks.
Ben P. Remm of Howells, one of the progressive young farmers of Stanton county was on the Omaha market with a shipment of fat hogs.
F. C. Bliss of the firm of Bliss and Wellman of Omaha, and a former business man of Howells was here shaking hands with his many old-time friends.
Rev. A. L. Brucker of Leigh was in Howells in his brand new Dodge coupe which he purchased recently.
Mr. Sidek of Hartington is in Howells visiting at the home of his friends, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Vavra, and others.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Barta are the proud parents of a little son at their home in Stanton county.
J.A. Evert and daughter were in Columbus for a visit with Mr. Evert's brothers, Frank J. who is receiving treatment at a hospital there.
Mr. and Mrs. Edwin J. Kriz of Omaha were over Sunday visitors a [sic] the home of Mr. Kriz's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Kriz. On their return trip home to Omaha they were accompanied by Mrs. Kriz's father who will remain in Omaha for awhile.
Mrs. Anna Svitak of Howells has been laid up and under the doctor's care at her home in Stanton county for several days, however, at the present time she is reported to be feeling better.
Jos. A. Kucera of Howells has been laid up with the "Mumps" for several days this week but is on the mend at this writing.
W.I. Strehle reports the sale of a brand new Ford to Chas. Stepanek.
The eighty acres of land in Maple Creek precinct belonging to the estate of Joseph Beran, deceased and offered for sale at referee's sale was bought by Frank J. Beran who owns a fine farm adjoining it. He paid $150.00 per acre although the land is worth much more. The addition of this fine piece of land make Mr. Beran one of the fine farmers in Colfax County.
William Parr of Omaha drove over to Howells with a large moving van and loaded up his furniture which he had stored in his residence property for some time and moved same to Omaha where they are now making their home.
Frank Fisher and family spent time visiting F. J. Evert at Columbus and the F. L. Tichota family at Central City.
Cyril Hauser and Frank Sebek were Clarkson visitors.
F. E. Brodecky was at Clarkson looking after his real estate holding near that place.
William Kovar left for Omaha by way of Scribner, going down to purchase a modern front for his store now undergoing extensive repair.
Jerry Horak, who farms south of Clarkson, was here yesterday on business.
Alios A. Pimper and John F. Pimper of Clarkson motored to Omaha on business.
January 25, 1923 - reprinted January 5, 1994Mrs. August Bogner and children, who were visiting with Howells relatives, left for there [sic] home in South Dakota.
The Howells high school quintet defeated the Beemer boys in a well fought game. Score was 26 to 9.
Mr. and Mrs. C.T. Danbach and daughter of Fort Morgan, Colorado, who visited in Howells for several days at the Dr. H.C. Groteke home, returned to Colorado.
The gold coin winner under the Community sales plan were Mayme Vesley, Louis Busch, Alois Karel, Jos. Vacha and Emil Uher.
The firemen were called out to the Frank Zvacek farm to subdue a fire started in a stubble field. No damage was done.
Arthur Moore of Howells is seriously ill at his home southwest of town and is looked after by Dr. Hebenstriet and a trained nurse of Omaha.
A baby boy was born to Mr. and Mrs. D. Markytan, who reside near Heun.
D. Hebenstriet is making frequent calls at the H.P. Claussen home, Mrs. Claussen Sr. being confined to her bed with an attack of rheumatism.
The first of the week, Mrestl Bros, sold a fine Nash "4" touring car to Frank Sebek. This is one of the best standard cars on the market. Every Nash owner will testify to this statement. No one can make a mistake by investing in a Nash, either four or six cylinder.
Frank C. Kratochvil of Clarkson was seen in Howells for a few hours.
Mr. and Mrs. C. Forbes of Howells spent time with relatives in Hooper.
George Bruhn of Howells, president of the Colfax County Fair association was at Lincoln attending the meeting of the fair managers of Nebraska. Mr. Bruhn states that they had a very interesting and profitable meeting. He said that special stress was laid upon the managers to induce the various extension workers to help with the county fairs, and also to induce the further organization of pig and calf clubs which will create interest in the fair among younger generations.
Sometime of the weekend some miscreant shot holes in many of the window panes of the Burger school house, south of Leigh. The scallowag had evidently used a rifle and many of the bullets lodged inside of the building. The members of the school board in this district have a warning notice in this issue of the paper, and are offering a reward of $150.00 for evidence leading to the arrest and conviction of the guilty party. This is a serious matter and someone is liable to get into a heap of trouble over the matter. This is the second time that the glass was shot out of this school house in recent weeks.
Miss Blanch Best, who conducted the millinery store in Leigh last fall was in town closing up her affairs. In September she was united in marriage to Theodore Sohl at Papillion but had kept the marriage a secret until recently. Mrs. Sohl left for Schuyler from which place she went to Ashland where they expect to reside. Mr. Sohl is employed as a brakeman.
Thomas Mortimer and Norman Ochsner of Leigh left to join the Mortimer boys who have stock on exhibition at the stock show in Denver. The boys have shipped five carloads of young bulls to Denver during the week. Accompanying the shipment are Honor Mortimer, Willard Achsner, Hugh Mortimer and Harris Barr.
The members of the Leigh Fire Department enjoyed a banquet at the firemen's hall. After enjoying a sumptuous "feed" J.H. Moeller called on a number of the members for short talks. Following this the boys enjoyed a smoker and spent the time in a sociable way. Many of the honorary members of the organization were present at this affair.
The James Severa public sale netted $7,000.00. It was one of the largest sales of the season. Everything placed on the stump sold exceedingly well and Mr. Severa is well satisfied with the result of the sale. The threshing rig was purchased by Vaclav Jedlicka of near Schuyler for $1200. Col. Roether as usual was in charge and did a number one job of it.
Sylvia Kabes, who underwent an operation for appendicitis at Omaha last week, is expected to return home with this afternoon's passenger. Her condition is much improved.
Mrs. F.W. Noh left for Omaha where she is taking treatment at the Methodist hospital. Her husband took her by car as far as Fremont where she boarded a U.P. train and proceeded to the city. She is under the care of Dr. Bridges.
Dick Holmes of Creston was here visiting with his friend Albin Misek.
Frank Chleboun was in Beemer attending to business matters and visiting at the home of his sister, Mrs. Jos. S. Severa.
Miss Ida Karel went to Omaha for a brief visit with relatives.
Anton Bartak is at Omaha attending the annual convention of Nebraska millers.
John F. Pimper attended to business matters at Howells.
Mrs. J.L. Stansky and son Jimmie, left for Omaha for a brief visit with relatives.
Miss Lillian Benes went to Howells this morning for the day's stay.
Walter Hahn left for Wessington, South Dakota, to look after his real estate holdings near that place and also to market his corn.
Miss Rosie Skoda who visited for a few days with her brother, Joseph returned to her home at Omaha this morning.
Dr. Kavan made a professional call north of Howells.
January 25, 1923 - reprinted August 10, 1994Mrs. Roy Bledsoe may die and her husband Roy Bledsoe will be a cripple for life as the result of an explosion of a kerosene can in the Bledsoe farm home, eight miles northeast of Stanton, Monday morning.
Mr. and Mrs. Bledsoe, about 35 years old, parents of four children, are both in a local hospital where burns received by both are described as terrible.
Mrs. Bledsoe's body is covered with burns, Bledsoe's hands are burns to a crisp, his hair burned off his head, his legs are seared and there are other painful burns on his body. No hope[s] are entertained for Mrs. Bledsoe's recovery. Bledsoe will probably live.
Mrs. Bledsoe started to light the fire in their farm home and uncorked the kerosene can. The can had been tightly corked and some gas had generated in it.
The moment she ignited a match there was a terrific explosion and immediately her clothing caught fire.
Mr. Bledsoe rushed to her rescue and endeavored to save her by wrapping clothing about her burning body.
He finally put the fire out but by that time more than two-thirds of her body had been burned.
The room caught fire and Mr. Bledsoe put this fire out. Dr. Peters of Stanton was called an[d] the couple was rushed to the Norfolk hospital.The folly of driving without lights caused Charles Vais of near Heun and Frank Husak, a young farmer from the Leigh neighborhood, to collide with their automobiles last night on the Colfax highway.
The accident occurred at about 11:00 on the bend adjacent to the Chas. Novotny farm, six miles southeast of Clarkson, and both drivers and the occupants of the cars came near paying the mishap with their lives.
Vais was accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Mike Vais, and Miss Irma Vanderbeck occupied a seat in the Husak car.
It is claimed that Vais was driving on the wrong side of the road when he noticed the approaching automobile and as he attempted to cross to the right side the cars met in a head-on collision.
Both vehicles are badly damaged, the Vais car being beyond repair. In the compact, Mrs. Vais was severely cut about her face from the flying glass and the other occupant's were fortunate to have escaped with only minor bruises.
Both cars were Fords and either one did not have lights, according to the report reaching this office.