The Platte Journal, October 2, 1872
Not long ago we called attention to the fact that there was a family of persons of unsound mind in the western portion of the county, and that they made indecent, public exposure of their persons. Those who complained to us about these persons will find the law on the subject, at Page 236 of the Revised Statutes. It will be seen by reference thereto that any resident of the county may file with the Probate Judge an affidavit, the form of which is given, and that nothing can be done by the public authorities until this is done. Those more nearly interested should see to this matter.
We learn, too, that there is an insane man, running at large in the western part of the county, who carries a gun, and is said to be a dangerous character. There is a proper, legal way to attend to this matter, and that without any expertise to the individual who may take it hand, if he be not a "natural guardian" of the insane person.
The Columbus Gazette, April 18, 1882
CARSTENSEN--Michael Welsh informs that a Mr. Carstensen, a Dane, living at Creston, tried to make short work with his life last Friday, by thrusting a butcher knife into his side. The knife struck a rib which turned the point downward, or the blow would have killed him at once. The wound may yet prove mortal. He is pronounced insane by his physician, having shown signs of a wandering mind for several days.
The Columbus Democrat, December 3, 1886
SMITH--Sherman Smith of Lost Creek township, was brought into town last Friday on a charge of insanity. The board found the charge true, but he has not been removed to Lincoln, as the authorities claim there is no room for him in the asylum. The unfortunate man is about 21 years of age, and his insanity renders him malicious and dangerous. Dr. Stillman thinks he will recover if given proper treatment.
The Columbus Democrat, December 17, 1886
THRAPP--S.T. Thrapp, one of the former proprietors of the Ulysses Herald, has been adjudged insane and taken to the asylum at Lincoln.
The Columbus Democrat, January 21, 1887
DAILY--Deputy Sheriff James Evans of David City came over Wednesday and took Chas. Daily, who has been in the hospital here for some time at the expense of Butler county, to the asylum for the insane at Lincoln.
The Columbus Democrat, April 8, 1887
WOODS--For sometime Henry Woods, the popular 12th street barber has shown evidences of losing his mental balance, and the consequence has been the loss of the finest trade any barber could have. Last Monday night he was noticed to be very irritable, and when he went home, commenced to destroy furniture, etc., in the house. He was then taken to the court house and Tuesday was adjudged insane by the commission, and was taken to Lincoln Thursday. The case is a sad one. Henry was a jovial, pleasant fellow, and had hosts of friends, and it is very hard on his wife and two children. The entire community has the greatest sympathy for the unfortunate man, and expressions of sorrow are heard on all sides.
The Columbus Democrat, June 10, 1887
GAVAR--Gustav Gavar, a German resident of this city, was arrested Saturday for abusing his wife. He was examined by the commissioners of insanity and adjudged insane and has been confined in the asylum at Lincoln.
The Columbus Democrat, June 17, 1887
GAVER--Gustav Gaver, the man who was adjudged insane some days ago, was taken to Lincoln on Thursday last but there being no room for him in the asylum he was brought back and is being cared for temporarily at St. Mary's hospital in this city.
The Columbus Democrat, July 1, 1887
HEDRICK--August Hedrick was brought in from Loup township on Saturday last and was adjudged insane. Owing to the lack of room in the asylum at Lincoln, he was placed in the hospital to receive temporary care. He rested all right until Tuesday evening when he eluded the vigilance of the Sisters and made his escape. He was nearly devoid of clothing when he escaped, barefooted and bareheaded. In this plight he made his appearance at the residence of County Clerk Stauffer, and frightened his family by his incoherent talk and wild gesticulations. He visited several other residences in the neighborhood causing a good many scares. A party was organized to run him down and they succeeded in running him back to the hospital. Mrs. Pat Hays was driving by at this time when the crazy man jumped into the vehicle behind her, scaring her so that she dropped the lines and the horse ran away, throwing her little boy out of the buggy the wheels of which passed over him, but not seriously injuring him. The horse was stopped without further mishap, and it now being nearly dark Hedrick escaped. He was found out in the country next day by a farmer and brought to town. When found he was nude, having probably torn up what clothing he had on when he effected his escape.
The Columbus Democrat, July 8, 1887
DICKINSON--A. Dickinson was brought in from the western part of the county, yesterday, and a board of commissioners of insanity was appointed who adjudged him insane. The unfortunate man is confined in the county jail where he will be kept until suitable arrangements can be made for his care elsewhere.
The Columbus Democrat, September 9, 1887
GAVER--Sheriff Kavanaugh took Anton Gaver who was adjudged insane to the asylum in Lincoln Tuesday.
The Columbus Democrat, October 7, 1887
ERNST--Mrs. Herman Ernst, of Butler township, came to this city on Tuesday last, bringing with her, her infant child aged about 18 months. She stayed about the U.P. depot most of the time alleging that she was going to Omaha. From her actions the authorities became convinced that she was insane. Late in the evening she started west, along the U.P. track towards the Loup bridge. Policeman McTaggert followed her and when she was secured, a team was procured, and she was taken to the home of her father, D. Rudat, who resides a few miles southwest of the city. We failed to learn from what cause her mind became unbalanced.
The Columbus Democrat, February 10, 1888
James McWilliams of Plattsmouth, who is superintending the work of painting the new asylum for the insane, at Norfolk, was in the city Tuesday, visiting his friend, Judge H.J. Hudson. He informed a Democrat reporter that the asylum will be opened for the reception of patients about the 15th inst. He says that in the past few days, the asylum has been a foundling's home, as a child has been born to each the superintendent, Dr. Kelly and his assistant.
The Columbus Democrat, February 17, 1888
A special train conveying ninety-eight insane patients passed through here Wednesday en-route to Norfolk. The asylum there is now open, and all of the ninety-eight are unfortunates who have been sent from this district to the asylum in Lincoln.
The Columbus Democrat, February 24, 1888
COATS--In the train load of "queer" which passed through this city last week en-route to the asylum for the insane at Norfolk, was Judge Coats. Judge Coats was formerly editor of the Schuyler Sun, along back in '74 or 75, and before he became daft he was a very intelligent gentleman. He was sent to the asylum from Colfax county. His wife, a very estimable lady, lives at Schuyler. Tom Wilson, foreman of the U.P. round-house in this city, went into the car to see the Judge. He recognized Wilson at once and appeared glad to see him. He told Wilson that he was going up to Norfolk to look after the political interests of that locality.
The Columbus Democrat, May 4, 1888
ERNST--Mrs. Amalia Ernst, who has been an inmate of St. Mary's hospital in this city for some months past, has been adjudged insane and she was taken to the asylum at Norfolk on Monday by Sheriff Bloedorn.
The Columbus Democrat, June 15, 1888
OHLRICH--Yesterday afternoon a Democrat reporter learned that a woman was lying on the floor of the U.P. depot in a drunken stupor. Upon investigation he found this report to be incorrect. The woman, who gave the name of Jennie Ohlrich, is evidently insane, the trouble as near as could be learned, resulting from the loss of her husband and children. She claims to hail from near Haysprings where she says her husband and children died.
She was taken to the Lindell hotel where she was taken care of last night. It appears that she is endeavoring to reach the east where she has friends. She is very reticent and at times her mind seemed to be wandering so that very little could be learned in regard to her.
The Columbus Democrat, September 7, 1888
CRAWFORD; RIEGEN--On Monday Henry Crawford, a young man about 23 years of age, was taken before the board of commissioners of insanity, Dr. C.B. Stillman, J.G. Reeder and Gus B. Speice, for examination. He was adjudged insane by the board, and is now in county jail awaiting admittance to the Norfolk asylum, that institution being full at present.
The unfortunate man hails from Grand Island but has recently been working for a farmer near this city.
Besides this case Platte county has another charge in the person of Henry Riegen, formerly a resident of St. Bernard township. He has been in the hospital here for several years, but it has been decided to take him to the asylum as soon as there is room for him. He is deemed incurable.
The Columbus Democrat, September 14, 1888
CRAWFORD--The man Crawford who was adjudged insane last week was taken to the asylum at Norfolk Monday, by Sheriff Bloedorn.
The Columbus Democrat, January 4, 1889
BRICKS--Mr. Bricks, a farmer living three miles west of here in Platte county on Mr. Woodworth's old farm, was reported as having gone insane and yesterday Dr. Geer was sent for to see if anything could be done for him. Financial difficulty is the cause of his derangement. His crops were not large enough to meet his debts and creditors were pressing him, one of them having seized a load of corn he had hauled into Leigh the other day and at the same time he said his children were suffering for clothing. It is also reported that he is to blame for his troubles as he drinks much of his earnings up whenever he comes to town.--Leigh Advocate.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, June 28, 1889
GIBSON--Elias Gibson, the Creston man who cut his throat some time ago, was taken to the insane asylum at Norfolk last evening.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, August 9, 1889
FABER--Moses Ed Faber, known throughout the Republican valley as the "Big Chief," attempted suicide yesterday morning by jumping from the South river bride. The water was very shallow where he struck, being only two feet deep, and he was rescued by some men who happened to witness his rash act. He has been a hard drinker for a number of years, and of late has had some financial trouble, which is thought to have unbalanced his mind. He will probably spend a few months in the insane asylum at Norfolk.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, September 13, 1889
TAYLOR--We regret to announce that the friends of William Taylor found it necessary last evening to take him to the insane asylum at Norfolk for treatment. Taylor had been acting strangely for several days and it was feared he was losing his mind, but no publicity of the matter was made. On Wednesday his brother Charley returned from Leigh and found William talking and acting in a manner that bore unmistakable signs of insanity. He took him out to another brother's near Leigh, thinking he might recover his unbalanced mind in a day or two, but he grew steadily worse and it was found necessary to place him in the insane hospital. Mr. Taylor was a man of good intelligence and had conducted a successful business in this city for some time. It is hoped his diseased mind is only a temporary affliction and that he will soon recover under the skillful treatment he will receive at Norfolk. No change will be made in his business interests here until it is known whether or not his case is serious.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 25, 1889
CRAWFORD--Last night about 10:30 o'clock as J.M. Macfarland was wending his way homeward, a man jumped out abruptly in front of him and started toward him as though he meant mischief. Mac commanded him to halt, but the fellow took to his heels. Mac pursued him and during the chase was joined by Mr. McDill. Together they pursued the fellow and captured him. The fellow proved to be a 19-year-old lad by the name of Crawford, who has been around town for some time and whose queer actions have been the subject of a good deal of comment. When Macfarland and McDill caught him he claimed to be a detective and said that he had mistaken Macfarland for the man he was after.
Realizing that the fellow was mentally unbalanced, his captors turned him loose.
Crawford hails from some where near Silver Creek. He is a fit subject for investigation by the commissioners of insanity.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, November 22, 1889
HOLM--Sheriff Bloedorn left this afternoon having in custody Ole Holm, of Monroe township, who he is taking to the asylum in Norfolk.
The unfortunate victim of a diseased mind was adjudged insane yesterday. He is 46 years of age and unmarried. His mind has been hazy ever since childhood, but lately has grown much worse. He was born in Sweden.
A brother of the unfortunate man, K.B. Holm of Wahoo, came up to see that his brother was properly provided for.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, January 24, 1890
SMITH--The commissioners of insanity, composed of J.G. Reeder, Dr. C.B. Stillman and G.B. Speice held a session yesterday, to inquire into the mental condition of Sherman Smith of Lost Creek township. The meeting was adjourned until today, without the commission arriving at any definite conclusion in the case. Smith was sent to the asylum in 1887 but was released after a time and pronounced cured. Lately he has shown unmistakable signs of the return of the malady.
[...and...]
The commissioners of insanity continued their inquiries in the Sherman Smith case yesterday. After hearing all of the evidence, the board decided that there was nothing therein to prove the insanity of Smith. He is suffering from general debility which causes him to suffer from occasional attacks of despondency and melancholia. Smith was therefore discharged.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, February 6, 1890
WEISS--Mrs. Weiss, an old insane woman who has been living in seclusion out in Bismark township the past 15 years, died Sunday.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, March 20, 1890
SMITH--Sherman Smith of Lost Creek township, who has been considered a little daft for some time, made a threat against the life of Dr. Willy of this city yesterday. The doctor swore out a warrant against Smith, charging him with being insane. Sheriff Caldwell goes to Platte Center this morning to bring Smith in for examination, which will occur tomorrow.SMITH; SCHOLTZ--Dr. C.B. Sillman, J.G. Reeder and G.B. Speice, the commissioners of insanity, held a session yesterday for the purpose of examining into the mental condition of Sherman Smith, mention of which has been made in The Telegram. It was decided to leave Smith free for a few days longer, under the care of the sheriff, in hopes that he would improve, as it was not thought that he was a subject for the asylum.
While engaged with Smith, Chief of Police Thomas McTaggert brought before them Joseph Scholtz, whose wife left him February 17 and about whom there has been so much talk. Scholtz has been acting queer for sometime and has been under police surveillance, but until last night he did not develop dangerous enough symptoms to warrant his arrest. Scholtz was found to be mentally deranged and was ordered committed to the insane asylum. It is thought that he is suffering from congestion of the brain and he has had spells during which he is dangerous. All stories about his having killed his wife are "fakes," as she is said to be alive and well, living in Omaha. The burden of Scholtz's complaint against her does not seem to be so much over her leaving him, as the fact that she took nearly all the money he had with her.
Scholtz is a Bohemian and has been living in the southern part of the city for about a year. He came here from Norfolk, and will be taken back there today by Sheriff J.C. Caldwell.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, March 27, 1890
SMITH--The commissioners of the board of insanity held a meeting yesterday to again consider the case of Sherman Smith, who has been before them several times. It was decided to send Smith to the asylum in the hopes that proper treatment would restore him to sanity, and Sheriff J.C. Caldwell will take him up there today if there is room for him in the asylum.SCHOLTZ--There has been some criticism of the action of the board of insanity in sending Joseph Scholtz to the asylum. Some people think they know more about the business than the commissioners. One of the board informed The Telegram yesterday that Scholtz was insane when taken to the asylum, beyond a doubt, although it was only temporary. He had lost sleep on account of his troubles and was in poor health. The case had led to congestion of the brain and he was a dangerous person to be at large, both to himself and others, as he was liable at any moment to commit some act of violence. Therefore it was deemed advisable to send him where he could be properly cared for and treated. He will probably recover in a few weeks if given the right care.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, September 11, 1890
McMASTERS--Mrs. Sarah McMasters has wandered away from her home at Silver Creek. She is insane, and it is believed that she is trying to reach Burlington, Ia. The officers along the Union Pacific have been notified to look out for her and arrest her if possible.
[...and...]
Mrs. W.A. McMaster, strayed away from her home near Grand Island about a week ago while laboring under a fit of insanity. Her husband was here yesterday looking for her. A woman answering her description was seen here yesterday. She was inquiring for a place to work. Any person knowing or learning anything of this unfortunate woman's whereabouts will please report the same to Sheriff Caldwell, who will see that she is taken care of until her husband can reach here and take charge of her.
[...and...]
Chief Talor went to Oconee last night, having learned that Mrs. McMasters, the crazy woman whose husband was here yesterday after her, was at that village.
[...and...]
Chief Taylor, who went up the branch Wednesday night in search of Mrs. W.R. McMaster, who is crazy, succeeded in capturing her near Monroe.
The unfortunate woman hails from Alda, Hall county, instead of from Silver Creek. she was brought to this city and her husband started home with her yesterday.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 2, 1890
HENNING--Last Sunday Sheriff J.C. Caldwell took into custody one Matilda Henning, a 20-year-old girl who resided on the island in Polk county. She was evidently insane and at times quite violent. Yesterday the board of insanity in this county held a meeting and examined into her case. She was adjudged insane and Sheriff Caldwell expects to take her to the Norfolk asylum this morning.
The girl's story, as near as can be learned, is a sad one. Her mother is dead and she was left some considerable property. Her father married again and her life has been far from pleasant since. It is generally reported that abuse and being driven from home is the cause of her derangement. Her father is said to be in comfortable, even good circumstances. Of course Polk county will be asked to provide for the expense of her keeping at the asylum.KUEHNEL--Joe Kuehnel, the crazy man, who is confined in the county jail, made so much noise yesterday afternoon, that the sheriff had to lock him up in one of the cells and put down all the windows, so that the business of the district court could be carried on.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 9, 1890
KUEHNEL--Whether a person be crazy or not when put in the Platte county jail, by the time the board of insanity get around, they are bound to be stark mad. It is a wonder how the county officers have survived as long as they have, with Joe Kuehnal in the jail.GORES--Yesterday morning the authorities were called upon to take into custody another person who has lost her reason. This time it is the wife of Frank Gores, a carpenter of this city. The board of insanity was called, examined into the case and adjudged her insane. This is not the first time that the unfortunate woman has been so afflicted. About six years ago she was the victim of a similar spell and now it has come on again. The poor woman is the mother of several children, one of whom is but a young babe. Her insanity is attributable, it is said, to religious frenzy.
The sheriff left last night for Norfolk with the poor unfortunate, where she will become an inmate of the insane asylum. She is the second woman taken there this week by Sheriff Caldwell, Maria Henning of Polk county being the other one.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 30, 1890
KUEHNAL--Sheriff J.C. Caldwell went to Lincoln yesterday to see the state board about the case of Joe Kuehnal, insane, who has been incarcerated in jail here for several months, waiting for a room in the insane asylum. The sheriff obtained an order for the transfer of a person from Norfolk to Hastings and Joe will take his place. Joe, who has been a Platte County boarder for so long, will probably be taken to Norfolk next Monday.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, December 18, 1890
??--"Old Teenie," a well known character of this city, was adjudged insane yesterday, by the board of insanity, and will probably be taken to Norfolk today by sheriff J.C. Caldwell.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, January 8, 1891
FIEDLER; SCHACHTSCHNIEDER--Yesterday the board of insanity examined Mrs. Earnest Fiedler, wife of the man who committed suicide Friday, and pronounced her insane. It is sad to think of the two little children who are thus left without the care and protection of a father and also deprived of the tender affection and watchfulness of a mother's love. She will be taken to the asylum at Norfolk this morning, as will also William Schachtschnieder, who was also adjudge insane.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, January 29, 1891
KNUDSON--Thursday the board of insanity examined the case of Mrs. Hansinia Knudson, aged 42 years, wife of Nels Knudson, a farmer living near Newman's Grove. Last September this woman was examined by the board, who thought that, although she acted queer, still her mind was not so deranged as to warrant their sending her away from her eight children. At that time the board gave her husband some good advice about the brutal treatment she had been receiving at his hands and warned him against continuing his brutality. But about a week ago she left her home and wandered around until she finally got as far as Fullerton, where she was taken in charge by the sheriff, who soon learned that her family were looking for her. She was brought to this city Thursday be Sheriff Caldwell and upon examination by the board pronounced insane. She was taken to the Norfolk asylum yesterday by Deputy Sheriff A.J. Campbell.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, March 19, 1891
RUMSER--Yesterday the board of insanity examined Joe Rumser, the Polander arrested for beating his wife, and without much hesitation pronounced him insane. He was taken to Norfolk where he will have plenty of time to mend his ways and clear his mind of its entanglement.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, March 26, 1891
KLENCHI--A warrant was issued yesterday for the arrest of Peter Klenchi, a farmer living west of town, to have him brought before the board of insanity to be examined. He sold his farm recently to Will Ernst and when that gentleman went out there yesterday to take possession he was driven away by Klenchi with a pitch fork. He is an old time resident of Loup township and well known throughout the county.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, April 2, 1891
MOUSBACK--The commissioners of insanity examined Adolph Mousback of Humphrey yesterday and not finding a definite cause for pronouncing him insane the examination was continued until today when he will either be found "crazy or not crazy," as the case may be.
[...and...]
The commissioners of insanity made application to the institution for the feeble minded at Beatrice yesterday for the admission of Peter Mousback who was examined by the board Thursday. If he cannot be admitted there, another examination will probably be made and the patient sent to the insane asylum at Norfolk.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, August 13, 1891
KUEHNEL--Meagre reports from Norfolk tell of the killing of one of his keepers at the insane asylum in that city, by Joe Kuehnel, an inmate. Kuehnel was sent up from this city in April, 1890, and will be remembered as the fellow who destroyed all his religious books by fire on the public streets. Since his confinement in the asylum, he has been quite ugly, at one time biting off the ear of one of the keepers.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, August 13, 1891
DARRAH--Andrew Darrah was brought before the board of insanity yesterday on the complaint of his wife. He was examined and the board reserved their opinion in the case until later. Until the past week the family resided at Fullerton and North Platte. At the former place he was examined by the board of Nance county, and was discharged.FIEDLER--Mrs. E. Fiedler of near Platte Center, was brought here yesterday and examined before the commissioners of insanity and ordered sent to the asylum. She is at present at the hospital.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, September 24, 1891
MARTINS--Sheriff Caldwell took Henry Martins of Platte Center to the Norfolk asylum yesterday. He was adjudged insane by the board of insanity.
The Columbus Journal, April 20, 1892
CLARK--Ernest Clark was adjudged insane on Friday by the board, and taken Saturday by Sheriff Kavanaugh to Norfolk, but was refused admission to the asylum there, the officials claiming that the patient properly belongs to the institution for the feeble-minded.
Columbus Journal, May 4, 1892
STONE; CLARK--The commissioners of insanity decided that Frank Stone, for the present, should remain at the hospital here, and that Ernest Clark should be held at the county jail until there is room for him at the state home for the feeble-minded, at Beatrice.
The Columbus Journal, September 14, 1892
CONNOR--Charles Connor, an old time engineer in the employ of the Union Pacific R'y Co., for several weeks past has shown unmistakable evidence of a demented mind, and Thursday last was brought before the commissioners of insanity here for examination who adjudged him insane and ordered that he be sent to the asylum at Norfolk for treatment. We understand that for several months past Mr. Connor has complained of severe pains in the head, to relieve which he has been in the habit of using opiates, this doubtless having much to do in placing him in his present condition. His many friends will hope that the ailment is of a temporary nature, and with proper treatment and much needed rest he will soon be restored to complete health. On Friday evening the unfortunate man, accompanied by his brother-in-law, George Brown, of Superior, Neb., and Sheriff Kavanaugh, was taken to Norfolk for confinement.
The Columbus Journal, October 5, 1892
HEIMROD--Mrs. Heimrod is again insane, but there is no room for her at the asylum, and she will have to be cared for by the county. Her's is a very sad case. Her former husband, Fiedler, committed suicide, during a temporary fit of insanity.
The Weekly Telegram, October 12, 1893
DICKENSON--Sheriff Kavanaugh took Anso Dickenson to the asylum at Norfolk Monday evening. Mr. Dickenson has been in the asylum once before and was discharged as cured. He was in Omaha recently and his peculiarities caused his arrest and examination there with the result of discovering his residence and he was brought up here and delivered to the authorities. The unfortunate young man has rational periods and realizes his condition, which he attributes to a blow upon the head from a schoolmate when a child. He has a brother living in Shell Creek township.
Columbus Journal, May 30, 1894
CUMMINS--Sheriff Kavanaugh and his son Ed. went to Norfolk Wednesday last with Frank Cummins of Monroe, who had been adjudged insane.
Columbus Journal, August 1, 1894
KRESHA; RICE--The board of insanity again send Theodore Kresha to the asylum at Norfolk. Mrs. Dr. Clark has filed complaint against her oldest son, and there is also pending a complaint against a Mr. Rice of Loup township.
The Columbus Journal, February 6, 1895
LAY--Friday last the board of insanity, consisting of Dr. H.J. Arnold, J.G. Reeder and G.B. Speice were called together to take action upon the affidavit of Sidney Maxwell to the effect that he believed W.K. Lay is insane, and that his being at large is dangerous to the community. They met at 11 o'clock and the hearing was continued to Monday, February 11. The affiant is the cook at the Thurston hotel.
The Columbus Journal, February 13, 1895
HARRIS--Judge Harris, an old citizen of Madison who was some weeks ago adjudged insane by the county board of insanity and sent to the asylum at Norfolk, has been released on writ of habeas corpus to the county court, and, it would seem from the Norfolk News' account of the case, that the examining physician, Dr. Makay, had gone wrong in pronouncing the Judge insane. Experts on insanity at the asylum, attendants there, as well as reputable citizens of Madison testified that they had seen no evidences of insanity in the Judge, and so he was released. The charge is made against Dr. Makay that his opinion as physician was not an unbiased opinion, his real design being to punish Harris for not following the Dr's. dictation as to politics last fall. It is a pretty pickle all around, but the Doctor seems confident of pulling through in justification of his opinon. He was an applicant for the position of superintendent of the asylum at Norfolk, and Harris' friends claim that if he could have been held there until that event, it would have been much more difficult to secure his release from unjust deprivation of his liberty.
The Columbus Journal, April 17, 1895
HOSNER--Mrs. John Hosner was, on Thursday last, adjudged insane, and taken by Sheriff Kavanaugh to the asylum at Norfolk. Some of our readers will remember that several years ago she lost a little boy while herding, and who was, it is supposed, drowned in the Loup river. Ever since that she has been growing worse until lately she had become so violent that it was getting dangerous to have her at home.
The Weekly Telegram, September 7, 1899
JACOBS--Phillip Jacobs, a farm hand employed near Humphrey was brought down last Friday by Chairman Bender of the Board of Supervisors.
Jacobs had been acting strangely for some time past and Saturday was taken before the commissioners of insanity and examined as to his mental condition. He was pronounced insane and will be taken to Norfolk just as soon as that institution is in condition to receive him. At present they are very crowded there.
Jacobs is about 40 years of age, a German, and is suffering from some serious mental disturbance. He fancies that he is constantly being pursued by persons who want to kill him. It is believed that a course of treatment will restore his reason.
The Weekly Telegram, September 28, 1899
KRESHA--Theodore Kresha, commonly known as "crazy Theodore from behind Silver Creek," was examined by the commissioners of insanity Tuesday evening and pronounced insane. The warrant was signed by L.L. Gray. This is the third time that he has been adjudged insane by the board of this county, but after short terms in the asylum he has been released. He has not been very violent--simply feeble minded, but seems to grow even worse as he gets older. He will be taken to Norfolk as soon as he can be received there.
The Columbus Journal, August 1, 1900
BARNUM--The board of insanity, consisting of Clerk of the Court Gruenther, W.N. Hensley and Dr. Baker, gave decision Monday, as to application regarding Hon. Guy C. Barnum, adverse to his being deprived of his liberty.
The Columbus Journal, September 5, 1900
MORESEN--A crazy man who about midnight of last Wednesday appeared at Henry C. Bean's south of the river, asking admission, claiming that two men were following him, imagining that he had something to do with the Durant murder in California. Sheriff Byrnes was sent for and brought the man to town. He will be sent to Norfolk. His name is Chris Moresen, he is about 46 years old, a German, and evidently much beside himself.
The Columbus Journal, November 7, 1900
WYNAN--Mrs. Catharine Wynan of the vicinity of Newman Grove has been adjudged insane and is at St. Mary's hospital temporarily. She is 55 years old.
The Columbus Journal, March 13, 1901
BUCHANAN--A very unusual, and at the same time a most pitiable event occurred in Albion this week, when both Mr. and Mrs. Daniel M. Buchanan were adjudged insane. Mrs. Buchanan we understand has for a long time been gradually losing her mind, and the malady in her case is of a mild form. Mr. Buchanan has been queer for some time, but not until the last few weeks has he been considered really insane. He has been carrying a revolver, and has done so many erratic things that it was not considered safe for him to be at large.
The Columbus Journal, May 22, 1901
HIRZ--Gotlieb Hirz, about 35 years old, from Boheet neighborhood, was brought in Monday and examined for insanity. He had acted strangely in some particulars. The hearing had not yet been completed as we went to press.
The Columbus Journal, August 28, 1901
BARBER--The Albion News says that sometime during the past summer Mr. L.W. Barber of Boone was overcome by the heat, since which he has acted somewhat queerly at times. Last week, accompanied by his three daughters, he went to the Fullerton assembly. On Sunday while attending a meeting at the auditorium he got up and went out. He did not come back, and his daughters looked for him some time before they announced the fact of his disappearance. When evening came they got alarmed and asked the assistance of the sheriff. He called for volunteers and two hundred men responded and prosecuted a thorough and systematic search until midnight and then rested until morning. About noon the next day word came that he was at Belgrade 18 miles distant. His actions indicated that he was totally deranged. Tuesday his son Frank and deputy sheriff Currier took him to Council Bluffs to the asylum. This is a great calamity, and his family has the sympathy of all. Mr. Barber has been one of Boone county's best citizens. He has always been a hard-working man, quiet and unostentatious in demeanor, and was considered one of our best and most substantial citizens. He was overcome while working in the field. It is to be hoped that his recovery will be speedy.
The Columbus Journal, October 2, 1901
MULLEN--Mat. Mullen, taken to the Norfolk hospital about a year ago, and recently ordered transferred to Hastings, was taken to the latter place Monday by Sheriff Byrnes.
Columbus Telegram, December 6, 1901
WEISENFLUH--Mrs. H. Weisenfluh, residing on the Heintz farm, northeast of the city, has been adjudged insane, and committed to the Lincoln asylum. The complaint was filed by J.W. Wisenstine, proprietor of the Meridian hotel. Testimony at the examination showed that Mrs. Weisenfluh had been stopping at the hotel for several days, and had given out the impression that she was soon to enter the hospital for treatment. She had there attracted attention of the landlord and guests by reason of her peculiar conduct and language at times, and Mr. Wisenstine, concluding that his guest was either erratic or insane, called attention of the officeials to the woman's condition. At first she was removed to St. Mary's hospital, but since she flatly refused to stay there unless under careful watch of the sisters, it became necessary to confine her in the county jail, pending her removal to the asylum.
Columbus Journal, January 29, 1902
WARING--The check-signing mania of Frank E. Waring (who lately was in the toils here), was found to be due to mental derangement; so said the insanity commissioners of Douglas county, and Waring has been taken to the asylum at Lincoln. The youth's father had made good some $2,000 of forged checks.
Columbus Journal, February 5, 1902
ZESSIN--Mrs. Zessin, one of the oldest settlers of the Union creek neighborhood and a well known character in Humphrey, says the Democrat, was adjudged insane at Madion last week and taken to the asylum at Lincoln. The Zessin's have reaped a goodly share of this world's goods, and it seems the accumulation of wealth caused the unfortunate woman to lose her mind. Her husband has been an invalid for several years and she has had the management of everything. A search of her premises revealved several thousand dollars hid away in different places, the amount being reported all the way from $5,000 to $20,000. We have been unable to learn the exact amount.
Columbus Journal, March 5, 1902
BERGGOLD--Charles Berggold of this city has been adjudged of unsound mind, and it is expected that he will be taken to the Lincoln asylum.
Columbus Journal, March 19, 1902
KAVANAUGH--At a meeting of the board of insanity Tuesday afternoon last, Dan. Kavanaugh, former sheriff of Platte county, was adjudged to be a proper subject for treatment at an asylum for the insane, and was taken Wednesday, by Deputy Smith to Lincoln. He tells us that Mr. Kavanaugh made no objections, but knew where he was being taken, and wanted to go. Evidently, he recognizes the serious results that might ensue, if he were free from restraint, in a crisis. His many, many personal friends will wish that he may be fully restored to health.
The Columbus Journal, November 19, 1902
SANDERS--Mrs. Fred Sanders, living three miles southeast of Creston, was adjudged insane by the board of insanity here, Thursday. Sheriff Byrnes took her to Lincoln Friday where she will have proper treatment. Mr. Byrnes also took E. Weberg, who was sentenced for forging a note, to the penitentiary.
The Columbus Journal, December 3, 1902
ZESSIN--The special commission appointed by the district court in regard to the case of Mrs. Henrietta Zessin of Lindsay, this county, who has been detained int he Lincoln asylum for some time past, have recommended that the patient be taken out of the hospital and given a private home, and that a guardian separate from the family be named to take charge of her property. Mrs. Zessin is a wealthy German woman with property valued at $26,000. The case was heard in Lincoln.
The Columbus Journal, February 4, 1903
REYNOLDS--Sheriff Bynres took Howard Reynolds, an insane patient to the asylum at Lincoln last Wednesday. Reynolds was found near Creston several months ago in a deplorable condition and has been held here ever since in order that the authorities might learn about his relatives, which they were unable to do.
The Columbus Journal, April 8, 1903
KEATING--Michael Keating, a stranger to the town, was pronounced insane by the board of insanity last week, and is now being held until word is received from the asylum at Lincoln.BINDER--The Schuyler Quill says that Sarah Binder, wife of Adolph Binder of Richland precinct, was adjudged insane by the commission from that county Friday and was sent to the asylum at Lincoln Saturday. Mrs. Binder's affliction was the result of a surgical operation and her mind has been affected but a short time.
The Columbus Journal, June 10, 1903
WILCKEN--Henry Wilcken of Shell creek township was taken to Lincoln last week to be treated in a sanitarium. Henry is a young man less than twenty years old and the care of several farms has been a strain that has completely broken his health. He is an exemplary young man in every respect and friends will be anxious to learn of his speedy recovery.
The Columbus Journal, June 17, 1903
JOHNSON--Peter Johnson, who came in on the Albion train Saturday, was taken to the insane asylum at Lincoln, after being examined by the board of insanity.TSCHUDY--On the east bound passenger train which passed through Columbus Thursday morning last was a lieutenant of the U.S. army in charge of nine insane soldiers who have been doing service in the Philippine islands, and who were on their way to Washington, D.C., for special treatment by the government. Among the number was Jacob Tschudy of this city who went to that country first with Co. K, First Nebraska, in 1898 and afterwards joined Co. G of the Twenty-eighth regulars and was returned to that far away land. Some of the men were very boisterous and had to be kept in irons. Young Tschudy's case is in mild form, as he conversed rationally with former acquaintances who met him at the station; he also inquired as to his mother's health, etc. It is hoped that change of climate and the special treatment these unfortunates are to receive will soon restore them to perfect health again.
The Columbus Journal, January 13, 1904
WALKER--John P. Walker, formerly of Humphrey and later of Oklahoma, was taken to the hospital for the insane last week, after an examination by the board here, who decided treatment there would be beneficial to him. Mr. Walker is brother of F.T. Walker of this city.
The Columbus Journal, April 13, 1904
FRANCKE--Ernest Francke, well known in Columbus, was brought before the insane board last Saturday and adjudged insane. He was taken to the Lincoln asylum today. ... The deputy sheriff took Ernest Frank to Lincoln Tuesday, where he was placed in the insane hospital for treatment. The insanity board examined into his case Saturday and decided upon taking this action. Mr. Frank is a man of about forty years and lived with his mother in the south part of Columbus.
The Columbus Journal, June 29, 1904
WELLIN--Peter Wellin of St. Edward was in town on his way to Lincoln where he was going to take his brother to the insane asylum.
The Columbus Journal, July 6, 1904
BAIRD--James Baird of Clarks, an old and respected citizen of that town, was taken to the asylum for the insane at Lincoln last Sunday morning. He was attacked suddenly the day before and immediately became violent, so that it was necessary to put him in chains and have three or four men to handle him.
The Columbus Journal, July 20, 1904
ASCHE--Mrs. F.L. Asche was taken to Lincoln hospital for the insane last Friday for treatment. She has suffered a long and painful illness as a result of puerpural fever, and it is hoped that she may be restored by treatment at the hands of Dr. Greene, the specialist in charge of the Lincoln hospital.
The Columbus Journal, September 21, 1904
KRESHA--Theodore Kresha was examined this afternoon by the insanity board and declared insane. He will be taken to the Lincoln asylum as soon as the authorities there can be heard from. This is the third time Kresha has been declared insane, having been sent to Norfolk twice. Kresha has been extremely irrational for some time and of late has been a source of annoyance on the streets, causing the police considerable trouble.
The Columbus Journal, October 25, 1904
MOSTEK--Peter Mostek was examined before the insanity board this afternoon and released.KRESHA--C. M. Gruenther has received the following letter from Dr. T.L.Greene, superintendent of the Lincoln Insane asylum, under date of October 24, notifying him of the escape of Theodore Kersha [sic], who was adjudged insane a few weeks ago and taken to the asylum by the Platte county authorities: "I beg to advise you that Theodore Kresha escaped from custody yesterday. If this man is again found in Platte county, have him taken into custony and returned as the law directs."--J. L. Greene. superintendent.
The Columbus Journal, November 30, 1904
ERNST--Amelia Ernst was pronounced insane by the board of insanity last Wednesday and Deputy Lachnit returned Teo. Creshna [sic] to the Lincoln asylum yesterday from which place he escaped a few weeks ago.
The Columbus Telegram, July 7, 1905
KOCH--Frank Koch, who was sent from this county to the state insane asylum at Lincoln about two years ago and later was transferred to the asylum at Hastings, was captured here yesterday. He escaped from the Hastings Institution about ten days ago. Deputy Sheriff Lachnit returned with him to that institution yesterday. Koch is regarded as a dangerous man to be at large. When last residing at home he attempted to kill his family, and this is what led to his incarceration.
Columbus Telegram, September 29, 1905
CARPENTER--A pitiable case of insanity was seen in Columbus last Saturday, when the sheriff of Nance county passed through here on his way to Norfolk in charge of a young man who was being taken to the state institution at that place for treatment. The young fellow was in irons, and between trains was taken to the county jail for safe keeping. His name was Willard Carpenter, and his home is near Belgrade, in Nance county. Last August he disappeared from his home, and although traces of his wanderings could be found in several localities he eluded capture until last week. Young Carpenter was found in a cornfield near Albion. For two weeks he had been subsisting upon nothing but green corn, and drinking water from a creek. He was almost destitute of clothing, having no hat and scarcely anything on except a pair of trousers. He was laboring under the delusion that somebody was trying to kill him. He is a graduate of the high school at Belgrade, and is said to be quite accomplished in music.
MICHAELSON--Mrs. Fred Michaelson, residing in Grand Prairie township, was adjudged insane by the county board Tuesday afternoon, and that evening taken to the state hospital at Norfolk for treatment. Two months ago she was in usual health, but has been ailing since that time. It is thought her case will readily yield to treatment. She is about forty years old, and the mother of six children.
Columbus Telegram, December 8, 1905
EICKMEYER--Dietrich Eickmeyer, a resident of Burrows township, on petition of a neighbor, Henry Lohoff, was examined by the county board of insanity last Monday and sent to the state hospital at Norfolk. At the same time a petition for the appointment of a guardian for Eickmeyer was filed with Judge Ratterman. The petition cites that Mr. Eickmeyer has become mentally incompetent on account of sickness, and recommends the appointment of a guardian to look after his property, amounting in value to over $5,000.
Columbus Telegram, December 22, 1905
SANDER--Mrs. Fred Sander, residing near Humphrey, was brought before the county board of insanity yesterday, the petition for her examination being signed by Robt. Jackson.
The Columbus Telegram, January 30, 1914
ATKINSON--Nels Atkinson, a well known farmer residing seven miles southwest of Lindsay, was adjudged insane by the insanity commission Monday afternoon and ordered committed to the state hospital at Norfolk. It developed that Mr. Atkinson was gradually losing his mental faculties. He could not remember past events, nor could he think or talk coherently. Mr. Atkinson has been a resident of Platte county for thirty years. His friends sincerely hope that his affliction may yield to treatment at the state hospital.
The Columbus Telegram, March 31, 1916
POTMESIL--Suffering with the mental hallucination that someone was after him with a gun, James Potmesil was brought down from Lindsay last Friday and given a hearing before the insanity commission. Potmesil was a believer in prepareness, and when arrested was found to have in his pocket, a loaded six-shooter which he carried for the purpose of defending himself against his imaginary enemies. The insanity commission adjudged him insane and ordered him committed to the state hospital. Potmesil came to the attention of the county authorities nearly three years ago when he was arrested for beating his wife at their home on a farm near Lindsay. The incident so aroused the people of Lindsay and vicinity that many threats of a "rope-party" were heard. He was given a thirty-day jail sentence for the offense. He has a wife and six children. The family home is now in Omaha.