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Republished in 1904 and 1905 |
PLATTE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1871 NEWS
Republished in 1904 and 1905
Published in The Journal, September 7, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal January 4, 1871.)
We are indebted to W.T. Callway for the following statement of the number and class of houses built in Columbus in 1870: store houses 10; lumber offices 2; barns 6; dwellings 22; and each of the following, one: printing office, bakery, saloon, barber shop, ware house, slaughter house. In all 47.
Married on New Years day, at the residence of J.A. Baker, Edward H. Baker and Miss Tilda Senical, I.N. Taylor officiating. Both are of Platte county.(From files of Journal January 11, 1871.)
On Friday last Henry Carrig sold J.P. Becker eleven hogs weighing 3250 lbs., being an average of 295 1-2 lbs. We understood that Guy C. Barnum has five that will clear 350 on an average and Jno. Wolfe has five that will weigh 2200 lbs.
The Columbus debating club will discuss the following at their next meeting: Resolved, that the location of a distillery in Columbus will be a greater source of revenue than any other business requiring the same amount of capital; affirmative, Guy C. Barnum, Rev. Elliott, I.N. Taylor; negative J.O. Shannon, Rev. Wilson, Rev. Reed.
We learn from Major Troth of the Pawnee Agency, that Supt. Janny and himself have been authorized to effect a treaty of peace and amity between the Pawnees and Sioux. Spotted Tail has expressed his anxiety for a treaty, and it is confidently expected that the long unpleasantness between the two tribes will soon be brought to an end.
Published in The Journal, September 14, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal January 18, 1871.)
Hon. H.J. Hudson, we notice, on the following committees in the house of representatives; county boundaries and county seats; immigration; and chairman of the committee on corporation. Mr. Hudson has given notice of a bill for a general herd law, also a bill changing time of terms of district court in Platte county. Hon. Leander Gerrard is on the committees on judiciary, apportionment, public buildings, counties and state lands.
The county commissioners have been called to hold a special meeting for the purpose of providing fuel for the court house. It has been suggested to us to remind the commissionery that by close investigations they may find several fires running at the court house that the county has no business to provide for. The county finances are not in the best of shape, owing in part to the non-payment of railraod tax; under these circumstances it becomes the commissioners not to try to "draw blood from a turnip."(From files of Journal January 25, 1871.)
E.R. Dean tells us they have organized in his neighborhood, a school consisting of twenty-one pupils under the care of John Brown as teacher. This district is a large one, being six by nine miles in extent.
Judge Coolidge of Glenwood, Iowa, father of our townsman H.P. Coolidge, died at his home January 13, 1871. Mr. Coolidge was one of the original proprietors of his home town, was the first postmaster, and served the county two terms as county judge.
Our first rain since October last came down on Sunday of this week.
Chas. Davis is doing carpenter work on an addition to Mr. Stevens office.
At O.E. Sterns claim beyond Shell Creek a well is being sunk and at a depth of forty-five feet they have found the same formation of soil as at the surface.
On the 6th of January fifteen men started from Columbus to explore the Loup Fork country--some with an eye to any stray game that might be lurking around, and others with a mind to business in the land line. Of the latter was our friend James E. North who made the trip with a view of looking out locations for colonies. He tells us that the trip extended as far west as the fork of the main Loup with the North Branch. It is a fine country, splendid land and timber. The reservation and the land west of it as far as the party went, is spoken of as equaling the best in the state.
We desire to call attention of the proper authorities to the fact that the frontier settlements of Nebraska from the Niobrara southward to the Platte need to be protected from the depredations of strolling Indians and straggling marauders of doubtful blood and character. A two company post would, perhaps, be sufficient, and of all the available stations we regard the North Banch [sic] at a point forty or fifty miles from its mouth as the best. It is centrally located and is in the Indian range.
Published in The Journal, September 21, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal February 8, 1871.)
Mr. Hudson's bill to declare section lines public roads in Colfax, Madison and Platte counties has been read the second time, and Mr. Gerrard's bill to provide aid to counties for construction of highways and bridges across the Platte, has passed the Senate.
Sheriff Arnold is about to move his jewelry store to Nebraska avenue, one door north of Baker's confectionery store.
Last Friday, our enterprising townsman A.J. Stevens received a new safe, one of the largest and best of Diebold Kienzels' manufacture. It is five feet high, forty-six inches wide and thirty-three inches deep and weighs three tons. There are on it, two combination locks, one of them being the celebrated Sargeant Greenleaf magnetic, capable of 100,000,000 different combinations, and costing three hundred dollars. This is one of the finest safes in Nebraska.
The amendments to the Homestead law, suggested by A.J. Stevens of this place, and published in the Journal several weeks ago, passed the House of representatives at Washington on the 31st, with but two dissenting votes. The bill as passed in the house is the same as that introduced in the senate by Senator Harlan. (The bill refers to soldiers securing homesteads through an agent, and not being compelled to apply in person.)(From files of Journal February 15, 1871.)
H.P. Coolidge will move his business house to the corner opposite J.P. Becker's and one door east of the drug store.
What will Chicago papers do next? The Republican publishes births, bethrothals, marriages, elopments, divorces and deaths.
We learn from M.B. Hoxie of Schuyler, that the vote taken Saturday resulted in a majority of seventy and upwards for a bridge over the Platte and for a court house, $60,000 for the former and $20,000 for the latter. How quickly have all the important towns in the valley followed the example of Columbus in bridging the Platte.(From files of Journal February 22, 1871.)
If you want a pair of good work cattle apply to Patrick Murphy.
A.J. Arnold, Bonesteel Pros. [sic] and Sutton & Winterbotham have moved to Nebraska Avenue.
We learn that H.J. Hudson has purchased the town hall for the use of the Latter Day Saints, and that it will be removed today, and placed upon lot 4, bock [sic] 128.
Died, at her residence in this city yesterday morning at 7:30 o'clock, Mrs. C.B. West, aged thirty-eight years. Mrs. West was a resident in Columbus for fourteen years, and had endeared herself to all.
Mr. Maher tells us that the mountain calf or lion that has been such an annoyance to the settlement on Shell Creek, killing calves, hogs etc., to the value of upward of $6300, has at last been compelled to succumb to the superior cunning and ingenuity of his fellow creatures of the genus homo in the person of our friend James Carrig.
L. Gerrard is home for a few days from his task as state senator. During that part of the session which has already transpired, Mr. Gerrard has secured the passage of the following named bills: The Platte river bridge bill, granting aid to counties that have already built, or that may hereafter build, bridges over the Platte; bill authorizing county commissioners to employ counsel for defence in certain cases; bill legalizing the cost of the commissionery of Merrick county; bill repealing an act which authorized the Governor to employ counsel; bill defining the boundary of Lincoln county; also of Hall county to establish six new counties, viz: Howard, Sherman, Greeley, Valley, Boone and Antelope.
(M. Maher writes a letter to the Journal, part of which we copy as follows:) "Four years ago we had no schools in our precinct, no county roads, no bridges, no reaping machines, no threshing machines, no fencing, and a host of other improvements.
We have in our precinct at the present time, school district No. 12, with an attendance of 31 pupils, teacher, F.M. Ellisall of Wisconsin, four month terms at $40 per month and board himself, directors, Dr. Heintz, W. Ripp, J. Conway. School district No. 4, with an attendance of 21 pupils, teacher O. Brennan late of Ireland, four months term $30 per month and board, directors, H. Carrg [sic], F. Lynch, P.G. Fleason. School district No. 11 with an attendance of 16 pupils, teacher, J.G. Ronston late of Ohio, two months term $40 per month and board himself; directors, M. Maher, J.W. Early, I.W. Lautz. District No. 14, organized the past fall will commence school in the spring; the directors are James Burrows, S. Lamb, Rev. M. Franhen."
Published in The Journal, September 28, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal March 1, 1871.)
E.J. Baker has laid the foundation of his new business house on Nebraska avenue.
Prairie chickens are abundant. It is not uncommon to find a dozen at a time in one trap.
Speice and North moved their office Saturday to eleventh street, two doors east of the Journal office.
The Loupe broke up one night last week and made a detour toward Barnum's carrying away the bridge near his dwelling.
Married at the home of the bride's parents, on Wednesday evening, February 22, by Elder Hudson, Mr. James H. Galley and Miss Helen Hudson, both of this city.
The Journal will from time to time publish such items of local interest as gather in the way of news history and business. We will begin with good hearted, clever and jovial friend, J.A. Baker: Joe came to Nebraska in 1860, settling twenty eight miles from Columbus on the road Kearney. His nearest neighbors lived seven miles away. Mr. Baker came to Columbus in 1864 and has resided here ever since. During the summer of 1864 occurred the great Indian excitement we have all heard so much about. The Indians first attacked a train of eleven wagons at Plum Creek, killing all the men, burning the wagons, taking away the stock, with two women and a little girl, prisoners. The raid sems [sic] to have been a concerted measure among the Indians for simultaneous attacks were made by them at different points in the Valley, two hundred and fifty miles apart. All was excitement. General Mitchell who was in command of this district telegraphed to Gov. Saunders to send troops to Columbus for we were in danger of an immediate attack from the Yonankton [sic?] Sioux who, it was supposed, were only some seven miles from here. In the grahic [sic] words of Mr. Baker, "the whole country west of us got up and skedaddled". Columbus was inclosed with a picket fence of cedar posts, and all the stock from Shell Creek to the South channel of the Platte was corraled there at night, and a guard set to give alarm in case of danger. The Indians, however, never made any demonstration upon Columbus, but they did attack a party of hay makers who had camped near the Pawnee Reservation and were making hay for the government. An old man of the party was killed by the Yankton Sioux. Adam Smith was shot in five different places, and died next morning. Grins, wounded by an arrow in the back, died within two weeks after great suffering. Isaac Morran had an arrow shot into his hip, and Mrs. Murray was severely wounded.
C.D. and George W. Clother, father and son, are proprietors of the Clother Hotel, a new building, well arranged, neat and orderly. The hotel, which stands due north of the Union Pacific depot, was opened June 14, 1869, and has received ever since a very liberal public patronage, doing a business of twenty thousand dollars in the two years. Mr. Clother came to Nebraska from New York eleven years ago, and when he landed had no money whatever, and now he is worth about eleven thousand dollars, besides the value of his business from year to year.
Henry P. Coolidge is one of the cleverest men in the burg, as well as one of the most active, wide awake business men to be found in any community; always ready for every public enterprise, giving freely of his time, money and labor. If we were on the brink of despair for work or money or victuals, we should go to Coolidge, for with a little body, he has as big a heart as you can find in any casket. Our friend came to Nebraska from Iowa in 1865 and has resided in Columbus since 1868. During the time he has been here his business has amounted to $114,000 a year. He has recently moved his hardware store from Washington Avenue to the corner of O and Eleventh street.
Published in The Journal, October 5, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal files March 8, 1871.)
Dan Fancett has moved his saddler's shop to Nebraska Avenue.
Wm. Speice is at work in his new tailor shop, corner of 1 and 2th [sic] street.
Augustus Lockner has been appointed postmaster at Pappreville, Butler county.
The election for town officers on Monday last resulted as follows: Mayor, C.B. Stillman; councilmen, J.H. Baker, H.P. Coolidge and H.J. Hudson; treasurer, V. Kummer; marshal, Chas. H. Davis; assessor, Orlando Rose.
On Tuesday February 28, Hon. L. Gerrard presented to the senate the remonstrance of J.E. Woods and one hundred others, against the division of Colfax county.
Died, on the 28th, Albert, son of Will B. and C.J. Dale, aged three months and seventeen days.
The Omaha Republican says: "The sales of the Union Pacific land department for the month of February amounted to $23,206, more than double for the same month in 1870. The whole amount of sales to March 1, 1871 is $1,368,552.
This month the sales promise to be very large, and in April still larger. A dozen or more, representing considerable capital, went out yesterday to select tracts.(From files of Journal March 15, 1871).
L. Meebe began on last Friday to put in the Loup bridge.
The trial of Gov. Butler was set for yesterday.
The new town council met Saturday evening and elected F.G. Becher clerk and L. Gerrard attorney.
F.G. Becher is on the move with his large warehouse, to be set down one door east of the Journal office, on Eleventh street.
The many friends of our postmaster, Hugh Compton, will be glad to learn that he is recovering from typoid fever.
Two of our business men went east yesterday to replenish their stock of goods, H.P. Coolidge and Phil Bonesteel.
Chas. Matthews has moved his blacksmith shop to 13th street.
We learn that the Methodist and Presbyterians, who are to build a house of worship for the accomodation of both congregations, will place it on the west side of Nebraska avenue, and north of John Compton's residence.
Our enterprising west door neighbor, J.P. Becker, is making extensive preparations for burning brick the coming season. It is time for Columbus business men to be considering the advisability of putting up brick business houses, now that trade is concentrating. We are told that excellent brick clay has been found on the bluffs, and that there is no doubt but we shall have from J.P. Becker some number one brick. Mend your chimneys, put a brick foundation for your new houses, and if possible build yourself a brick dwelling.
Dr. S.A. Bonesteel was called at daylight yesterday morning to administer to the wants of Mahlon Butcher, who was shot Monday night. Mr. McNeely, who is watchman at the bridge, was up in the night and seeing something on the track that he supposed was a large dog prowling about, fir [sic] into it, when he learned from the cries that he had shot a man and not a beast. After seeing who it was and that he was badly injured, he went for help, but the man in the meantime, crawled to Mr. Coffey's, then to Henry Spence's, where the physician found him later. His wounds are severe for Mr. McNeely was within twenty feet of Butcher when he shot him.
Published in The Journal, October 12, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal files March 22, 1871.)
Chas. Mathews has erected for himself a very good blacksmith shop on 13th street.
We notice that a post route has been established from Battle Creek via Madison, to West Point.
Becher & Co. have brought their business house into line on Eleventh street one door east of the Journal office.
A letter from Richland signed "Anderson" contains the following: "Another one of our old citizens has left this earthly scene. One by one the original few who, years ago, cast their lot in these then prairie wilds, are dropping off. The demise of Michael Marone, who resided on Shell Creek, occured [sic] on Saturday, the 11th, under the following deplorable circumstances: Having carried all the water used in the family for the last five years, a distance of half a mile, Mr. Marone, some two weeks ago, concluded to dig a well, and had excavated and curbed about 40 feet and expected soon to complete the job, but Providence had ordained otherwise, and upon the afternoon in question an assistant, while lowering a board into the well, permitted it to slip from his grasp, and it unfortunately fell upon the head of poor Marone, who was in the well at the time, killing him almost instantly. Mr. Marone was a hard working industrious man, and a good citizen. He leaves a wife and two little children to lament this untimely end."
We are informed by Walter Lawrence that on Friday at about 9 o'clock, Mr. S.L. Edwards, who lives in the neighborhood of the Whaley farm, lost his stable, a horse, mule and harness, from a prairie fire, which came from the southeast. Mr. Lawrence described the fire as terrific. He himself was surrounded by the flames, and in fleeing for his ilfe [sic], running his horse at his highest speed, he barely escaped the fire, giving it a goodly portion of his back hair in the whole of his horses tail. During the fire Mr. Lawrence says that he saw an umbrella, or tumble weed, carried 2000 yards, or more than a mile, by the wind, firing the prairie in a new place.
Hon. J.N. Taylor of this place has been elected secretary of the board of Immigration for Nebraska. As that portion of our state known as south Platte has heretofore secured the greatest attention at the hands of the former board, now that that body has been superseded we may reasonably expect that North Platte will receive her due portion of the labors of our immigrant agents.(From files of March 29, 1871.)
Wm. Hofelman has established his blacksmith shop on Tenth street, two doors west of the court house.
Our postmaster, Hugh Compton, is around again after his serious illness.
A telegram was received here Monday evening stating that the Senate of Nebraska, sitting as a court of impeachment on the trial of David Butler, adjourned to the 31st, without making a decision.
The Omaha Republican says that the earnings of the Union Pacific for the past week have exceeded those of the corresponding week of 1870 by $20,000.
Phil Bonesteel returned from the east on Friday. He says that dry goods are going to be so cheap that folks can not help but buy when they see them. The best of prints will be 12 1/2 cents, and eveything [sic] else just as cheap as can be bought at retail in Chicago.
Published in The Journal, October 19, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal files April 5, 1871.)
Married at the residence of J.W. Early on the 29th, by N.H. Barton justice of peace, Lorenzo D. Clark to Miss Emma J. Sheets, both of this county.
At the election of school officers for district 13, held on Monday, 10 mills on the dollar was levied for building school house, 4 mills on the dollar for school purposes, and the following gentlemen selected to take charge of affairs the ensuing year: John G. Compton, moderator; A.J. Stevens, treasurer; E.J. Baker, director.
The Omaha Republican advocates the establishment of an emigrant home in that city for the accomodation, temporarily, of families seeking homes in Nebraska.
"C. Bucksrottie" writes from Clarksville the following to Platte-Journal: "Allow me to make a few remarks about Clarksville. The Railroad company have just had the town surveyed off into lots for the benefit of the public. You can buy them at from $20 to $150. We also have as good farming land surrounding the town as there is in the state and a large portion of it is vacant, only waiting for preemption and homestead settlers."(From Journal April 12, 1871.)
Our correspondent at Genoa "Dan" writes as follows: A terrible storm raged here all day yesterday but was the most severe about noon and at night. About ten o'clock a fire broke out near the Pawnee village and ran in a due north direction, but was checked until after twelve o'clock when it started again, destroying every combustible substance in its course, and attacking the dwelling house occupied by Mr. Barclay Jones and myself. In less than twenty minutes after there was seen in the houses, they were completely destroyed."
The snow storm of Monday was some what unexpected after witnessing the very fine weather of the week preceding.
E. Pierce advertises as follows: In white goods I have plain, checked and striped Jaconets, French Cambrick, checked and striped cambrick, plain, dotted and striped Victoria lawn, striped and figured Pigne. Prints, 7 cents per yard; delaine, 16 cents; sheeting, 10 cents; denims, 12 1/2 cents, jeans, 20 cents crash, 10 cents; ladies white hose 10 cents per pair; hats and caps for men, 10 cents to $4.
We are informed by Mr. Perine that the tide of immigration is settling strongly in Nebraska. Last month the Union Pacific company sold 117,857 acres of land to ninety one purchasers. Yesterday $7,500 worth was sold. The immigrants who are coming to settle in Nebraska this spring are of the better class, many of them being from the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. Everything indicates that Nebraska will add to her population this year from 30,000 to 40,000 people.
Household goods shipped from Cadiz, Ohio on the 26th arrived in Columbus April 7th. Families coming west need not fear the delay of their goods when shipped on the Pan Handle and the Union Pacific.
Will B. Dale is at home again looking as hale and pleasant as in former days.
Published in The Journal, April 5, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, April 12, 1871).
A correspondent from Genoa tells of a terrible storm which raged there on the 7th. The dwelling house of Barcey Jones was burned to the ground in less than twenty minutes after it took fire. Several other homes were destroyed by fire and wind. The snow storm of Monday was somewhat unexpected, after witnessing the very fine weather of the preceeding.
Clark Coonley has been informed by Hon. Hichcock that he has succeeded in having the Patent Office Department accept his model for the potato digger he patented last fall. This is Platte county's first patent.
The Omaha Republican gives the following as the result of the charter election in the city of Omaha. Seven republicans and five democrats. Last month the land department of the Union Pacific company sold 17,857 acres of land to ninety-one purchasers. Yesterday $7,500 worth was sold. The immigrants who are coming to settle in Nebraska this spring are of the better class, many of them being from the states of Ohio, Pensylvania [sic] and New York.
The Union Pacific railroad company has just had the town of Clarksville surveyed into lots for the benefit of the public, and are selling them from $20 to $150. (This is the present town of Clarks.)
Published in The Journal, April 12, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, April 19, 1871).
Among the new buildings erected in town are, Rev. J.E. Elliott a residence west of the court house and C.H. Mathews a residence west of Nebraska avenue. The Union M.E. church and Presbyterian church will soon be complete.
Cyrus Lee jr., of Clarksville gives us the following incidents of the late snow storm near that town: Two Englishmen, who were traveling in a wagon, and who were seeking homesteads, were caught out in the storm and thinking that they must perish if they could not find shelter, unhitched their horses, determining to follow them to a place of safety. In the storm they were separated, who easily those who have experienced a western storm can readily know, the one who kept track of the horses arriving safe at the river and at last in the afternoon found his way to Mr. Jesse Turner's. The other man was not found alive. He perished in the pitiless storm alone exhausted unprotected in a strange land and within a few rods of a dwelling whose inmates would have gladly rescued him had they known. Mr. Lee tells us that when the storm came on there were seven Pawnee squaws near the depot and that the oldest of them was wrapped in robes and placed by the others in what was regarded as the most protected spot while the other crawled beneath the station house and waited till the storm was over. When they came to dig for their aged companion they found her beneath six feet of snow but the liveliest one of the party.
Published in The Journal, April 19, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, April 26, 1871).
J.C. Lewis, L.H. North and N.J. Paul have been appointed commissioners of Howard county, under a special act of the legislature passed last winter.
We had several days heavy blowing last week, but no damage done that we have heard about. Hold your hat on. You strangers to the west--you have come in a good time to know how to build, what to provide for, and what to expect. It is very much better for us that the rafters of our houses tremble a little in the wind than that the bones of our bodies shake with the ague.
H.I. Severance writes an interesting letter to the Journal from Madison, part of which we quote: "Thinking a few lines from one of the earliest settlers of this precinct would be acceptable shall attempt to give you a brief history of the early settlement of the beautiful valley of Union Creek. I came here with my family four years ago the tenth of August next, settled on a quarter section of land pre-emption. Then there were but two settlers on Union Creek besides myself, H.M. Barnes and Chas. Huylar. The country here at that time, compared with the present, was wild and lonely, only one human habitation to be seen from my rude house. I had to travel thirty-five miles to do my trading, and when I wished to mail a letter, had to go to Columbus it being the nearest postoffice. Then, our broad and fertile prairies had the appearance of a vast uncultivated field, for at that time there had not been a furrow struck with the plow. But now how different! Instead of the howl of the wolf we hear the sound of a cow bell, and instead of a wild and uncultivated country, we see beautiful fields, rich and productive. At that time I feared that this country would be many years in settling but am glad to say that I have been agreeably surprised. I can count fifteen residences in sight of my house instead of one, and the little village of Madison is located half a mile east of me."
Published in The Journal, April 26, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, May 3, 1871).
A.C. Turner has purchased of Mrs. Margaretha Gottschalk about an acre of ground two blocks north of the postoffice, here he will erect a dwelling.
Olson & Manuson are building a dwelling for Rev. E.J. Eliots.
Married, April 28, at the residence of Hy. Wellman, Martin Brettner and Annie Runge, Elder Hudson officiating.
The Clothers have laid down sidewalk east of their hotel and added to their hotel business a livery stable.
This number of the Platte Journal closes the first volume. The Journal is the only publication in this county and we wish all citizens to feel at liberty to discuss public matters through its columns. We shall continue to devote our space mainly to the settlement of the county agricultural topics etc.
Two hundred families will soon reach Nebraska from Michigan. This is but a prelude to what is before us. The tide of immigration is set toward this state and thousands of families from the middle and northern states are already moving this way.
Published in The Journal, May 3, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, May 10, 1871).
Lincoln has voted $50,000 bonds for the purpose of erecting school buildings.
Six car loads of Nebraska cattle were shipped to Chicago from Plattsmouth Saturday.
The B.M. in Nebraska have reduced the passenger tariff to five cents a mile, taking effect April 10.
Louis Phillipps has removed his boot and shoe store to Olive street opposite the post office.
E.A. Gerrard returned from his trip east last week bringing with him thirteen head of very good horses.
Three city ordinances are being published in this week's Journal, one for restricting an animal from running at large in the town, one to provide for making, building or repairing sidewalks and one for the protection of shade trees.
At the meeting of the board of county commissioners last week the following bills were allowed among others: J. Strother clerk of election, $2; Sutton Winterbotham, lounge for jail, $5; F.G. Becher, wood for jail $5; W.T.Strother, services as assessor Monroe precinct, $1; A. Heintz service as assessor Shell Creek precinct $60; O. Rose services as assessor Columbus precinct, $29; A. Freiedline salary as janitor for Aril [sic], $15.
The commissioners issued a license to sell liquors for one year to John Strasser. Twenty-two wolf scalps and ten wild cats sent in by hunters for prizes offered by the county, were counted and destroyed.
Published in The Journal, November 30, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal May 10, 1871.)
Six car loads of Nebraska cattle were shipped to Chicago from Plattsmouth, on Saturday.
The B.& M. in Nebraska have reduced the passenger tariff to five cents a mile, taking effect Monday.
Many of the citizens of Platte county have planted from 1,000 to 10,000 trees this spring, and many more will be planted next season.
Louis Phillipps has moved his boot and shoe store to Olive street opposite the post office, where he is prepared to do work in his old style.
Jacob Ernst has added greatly to the appearance of his house north of town by surrounding it with a beautiful picket fence.
Last Wednesday night Thomas Shea, was shot in the face by Mrs. Arthur, while he was attempting to enter the house. The man was intoxicated and supposed he had gone to the home of a friend who had invited him to remain with him during the night, at least that is what he testified to in court. Mrs. Arthur heard the man at the door and demanded that he leave, and after a refusal, she fired, the ball entering at the right of the nose and obliquely downward and lodged under the right jaw bone where it yet remains.(From files of Journal, May 17, 1871.)
Married, at the court house in Columbus last Wednesday, by Elder H.J. Hudson, Charles Dettboerner and Miss Amelia Bohn.
Honr. Leander Gerrard was last Friday admitted at Omaha, to practice in the United States courts.
J.P. Becker began work in his brick yard on Tuesday of last week. Thos. Flynn is in command and expects to burn some 400,000 good bricks before the season closes.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Meyer were callers in this office one day last week. Mrs. Meyer was the second woman who came to Columbus, Mrs. Wolfe, lately deceased, being the first.
Thursday last we visited the farm of Guy C. Barnum south of the Loup. On our way back Mr. Barnum told us that in the years before the U.P.R.R. was built, during the season of emigrantation [sic] there was not a day passed but the "bottom" near the Loup was literally full of prairie schooners, herds of cattle, besides men, woman and children. That often trains of wagons 150 to 200 in number would be staying for the night, to be succeeded the next night by still other trains. There was once a train of hand carts passed this way, as likewise one man trundling a wheel-barrow from Omaha to San Francisco. Mormons from all countries of the old world marching along, singing the songs of Zion. In short, all sorts of people from every land under the sun, going to California, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, in all sorts of conveyances. The Iron Horse in the distance reminds us that those days have passed away, a trip across the continent being now made in ten days.
Published in The Journal, May 10, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, May 17, 1871).
Lincoln claims a population of 3,000 people.
Hon. Leander Gerrard was last Friday at Omaha, admitted to practice in the United States court.
J.P. Becker began work in his brick yard Tuesday of last week. Thos Flynn is in command and expects to burn some 400,000 good brick before the season closes.
The Journal acknowledges a pleasant call from Mr. and Mrs. Peter Meyer. Mrs. Meyer has the honor of being the second woman who came to reside in Columbus, Mrs. Wolfel lately deceased being the first.
Married, at the court house in Columbus May 1, Elder Hudson officiating, Charles Dettboerner and Miss Amelia Bohn.
The Sioux City Journal in a recent issue contained the following: Columbus is rapidly growing in population and importance. It has always been considered a good objective point. The U.P. passes thorugh it, and roads are confidently expected both from the north and south. There is probably no road now of more importance to the internal interest of Nebraska, than the Sioux City and Columbus road, the construction of which will lay down lumber in the heart of the commonwealth at as low rates as it can be laid down in Chicago by rail. There is not the slightest doubt but this road will be completed by some company within one or two years.
Published in The Journal, November 30, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of May 24, 1871.)
Married, May 20, in the Congregational church, by Rev. Elliott, Mr. William Smith and Miss Sabina Renahan both of Butler County.
Married, on the 15th, by Elder E. Hudson at his residence, Ephriam Pilling to Miss Catharina Cording, both of Platte county.
Since the county clerk gave us the assessment returns of Platte county, which we published two weeks ago, he informs us that the railroad having made its assessment our list is now upward of $200,000 more than before.
We were favored this week with a call from Edward Dwyer, one of the first settlers of Boone county. He informs us that some progress is making in the way of settlements in that part of the state, about twenty families having recently located there near him.
Published in The Journal, November 30, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal files May 31, 1871.)
Kelly & Wilson have completed a dweling [sic] for A.C. Turner in the north part of town.
Col. Jno. Rickly has removed his grocery from the old stand to his new building on the corner of Ninth and Washington avenue.
Jacob Lewis, one of the first settlers of Columbus, was in town on Monday, celebrating the birthday of Columbus. Fifteen years ago, May 29, 1856, Columbus was laid out, and the following named persons were among the first settlers: Vincent Kummer, our present county treasurer, Jacob Lewis, Chas. Reinke, Fred Gottschalk, Jacob Guter, John Ifler, John Held, Henry Luesche, Adam Denk and Michel Smith. Mr. Lewis' farm which joins Columbus on the east was homesteaded by him in 1856.
We call attention to the new advertisements of Major Troth for lumber, John Eusden for plasterer and brick layer, H.P. Coolidge and Sutton and Winterbotham, furniture and hardware.
Published in The Journal, December 7, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
[No date given, but was probably from files of Journal June 7, 1871.]
Jacob Schram has opened a very good assortment of ready made clothing, boots and shoes, etc., in Holman's building.
We are indebted to Col. G.W. Stevens for the first dish of strawberries of the season. Mr. Stevens will have under cultivation, the coming year, ten acres of small fruit of every kind which he proposes selling to the good people of Columbus.
The Polk county bridge across the south channel of the Platte was completed Saturday. This, like all others of Mr. Handy's contracts, gives general satisfaction. The Polk county people even claim that Mr. Means, the superintendent of the work, have given them a better bridge than the "Pioneer" Platte bridge.
Mr. Marmoy, at the meat market, has had constructed a very fine, air-tight ice room for the preservation of beef during hot summer days. The ice is not brought into contact with the meat, but is placed in the room, and gives a very cool atmosphere to kept sweet.
Died, at his residence in Clay county Missouri, May 26, of typhoid fever, Peter C. Calloway, aged forty-four years.
Published in The Journal, December 14, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal files June 14, 1871.)
Will T. Rickly has moved his grocery store to Eleventh street, two doors east of the Journal office.
Major North is erecting a residence two miles west of Columbus on the State road.
Station agent W.B. Doddridge wishes to inform all who wish to attend the state horticultural fair in Omaha this week, that round trip tickets may be purchased for $8.30.
Hon. Chas. A. Speice left Monday for Lincoln to take part in the Constitutional convention which met yesterday. It is regarded as one of the largest bodies that have yet assembled in the state.
A terrific hail storm visited the region near Becker's mill on Shell Creek last Thursday evening. Our young friend G.A. Schroeder describes the storm to be an unusual one. The hail stones must have fallen a great distance, for many of them were as large as hens eggs, and penetrated the ground to the depth of an inch. A violent gale of wind accompanied the hail. Mr. Arnst's house, which is made of logs, and was never before shaken by the wind, was like an ordinary house in an ordinary wind. One of Mr. Lueschen's boys was struck on the head by a hail stone which resulted in the manufacture of a big lump unknown to the best phrenlogist. Mr. Weeter, Mr. Held, Carl Reike and Mr. Leusche are all losers of crops from the hail.
(In a letter from O.E. Sterns from Stern's Parie [sic] we copy the following) "We have a number of advantages over those living in the valleys; we have scarcely any obnoxious vermin. I have not seen a vine stripped, or a cucumber bug yet. No gophers, mice or corn grub, no snakes, no mosquitoes, or green head flies. No alkali in the water, or onions in the butter. I find however, that quadruped known as the potato bug needs the same care here to thive [sic] as that animal does in other localities. We have a nice breeze all the time, and in short, our only trouble is to find time in this busy season to prepare and eat the amount a person is obliged to, living in such a healthy country as this is."
Published in The Journal, December 28, 1904 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal June 21, 1871.)
The train service at this date consisted of one passenger, one mixed, and one freight train, each, east and west bound in twenty-four hours.
Mr. Senecil has corn nearly three feet high.
Becker's first kiln of brick for this season are nearly ready for handling.
James North tells us that on his last trip up the Loup he went fifteen miles further than he had ever gone before, and found a ledge of very valuable rock, lime stone. The ledge, which is stratified rock, is about fifteen miles from the north settlement, and is from ten to forty feet thick as it faces the stream, and extends one and a half miles.
Father Ryan has returned from a trip to southwestern Nebraska. He speaks highly of that section of the country. Father Ryan had a talk with Major Loree in regard to the Atchison, Lincoln & Columbus road. He is evidently doing everything in his power to further the interests of the road, and we believe will have some cheering news to give us soon.
From Lewis Warren, one of the commissioners appointed to locate the Columbus and Yankton State road, we obtain the following: the road starts at Columbus, runs to Pat Murray's, thence nearly due north to Shell Creek, thence with the valley of the creek to Warren's in town 21 north, range 4 west, 35 miles from Columbus, thence in a northerly course, 19 miles to Gilles on the Elkhorn, thence down the Elkhorn about 4 miles, thence north east 19 miles to Pierce, etc., making in all about 1630 miles from Columbus to Yankton.
(A letter from Cyrus Lee of Silver Creek contained in part the following:) "Timber here is very scarce, notwithstanding what may be said to the contrary. Railroad charges on coal here are $8.60 a ton by car load and $3 at the mines. While they ride in the east for 3 cents a mile we pay seven and a half or go afoot or in a wagon. While flour is carried from Chicago to New York for 90 cents, it costs us 90 cents for less than a hundred miles. We want corn here: it is 35 cents at Fremont, the railroad company wants nearly as much to carry it some 65 or 75 miles. It costs me $16.40 to go and return to Omaha."
Published in The Journal, January 4, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, June 28, 1871).
A military road is to be opened from North Platte to the Niobrara.
June 26, 3:30 o'clock p.m., it is very warm, 102 degrees in the shade.
Died.--Friday morning, Mrs. Rebeca Allen., wife of James W. Allen. Mrs. Allen leaves a husband and one child.
Our Schuyler friends are preparing for a grand old fashioned 4th of July. A spacious arbor will be erected on the town plat, beneath which will be a platform for dancing, sufficient to hold a dozen sets. The Schuyler cornet band the only brass band in the Platte Valley, will be in attendance.(From files, July 5, 1871)
John Dusden and a part of his family left Liverpool April 5, arriving here April 25, selected and located a homestead on Lost Creek April 27, and has made thereon some valuable improvements. He, and his three boys are now working hard, having already received a very liberal amount of work as plasterers.
J.G. Higgins dwelling house had a narrow esacpe from being struck by lightning during the electric storm last Tuesday. Lightning struck corn shocks within a few feet of the house hooking some of the inmates of the dwelling.
The Fremont Tribune says: "A venerable squaw, dressed in a buffalo robe and a pappoose on her back, created quite a sensation Saturday by appearing on the streets with a silk parasol, which she carried on her shoulder, a la stevedore, and managed now and then to sade her heels."
Published in The Journal, January 11, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of the Journal, July 12, 1871).
J.P. Becker has sold within the last four weeks, twenty-four wagons. The Journal is indebted to J.O. Shannon county superintendent for copies of school laws, maps etc.
John Held, who lives about nine miles north east of town tells that on August [??] 25, the hail storm did much damage in his neighborhood, stones falling as large as a man's fist. One man with his family protected themselves under a beam in their house, the stone having riddled the roof. The crops of John Brock, Jacob Held, Henry Muhler, Mr. Bugenhous, Mr. Englebat, and M. Bienbock were considerably injured by the storm.
M.M. Pomeroy, familiarly known as "Brick" Pomeroy, arrived at Columbus Tuesday evening on his journey across the continent. On his bridal tour, Mr. Pomeroy and wife are accompanied by his private secretary, and the party are uniting business with pleasure. Mr. Pomeroy is proprietor of two newspapers, the La Cross, Wisconsin, Democrat and Pomeroy's Democrat at New York City and on his journey is taking in the places of note and interest for the benefit of the numerous readers of his journals. He intends to publish a book upon his observations . . . . Two days of Mr. Pomeroy's valuable time devoted to our little town, shows the importance he attaches to it as a place of growing consequences. Wednesday the famous editor gave at the court house, one of his characteristic speeches.(From files of July 19, 1871).
Before many weeks through tickets for the trip around the world will be for sale in all the large cities of this country and of Europe. The price for the round trip has been fixed at $1,350 in our currency at present rates. The distance is 23,569 miles; time, eighty-one days.
M.K. Turner offers to donate twenty acres of land lying on the bluffs north of Columbus as a site for a college.
The population of the United States if 38,744,463. Last year 33,739 immigrants arrived.
Published in The Journal, February 1, 1905 - "Many Years Ago":
(From files of Journal, July 26, 1871).
One of our merchants is selling beef at from 8 to 10 cents a pound.
At the regular meeting of the county commissioners held last week, bids for the reparing of the brides on Shell Creek were opened and awarded to Hy Wellman for $175. Upon motion of com. Early, the clerk was instructed to advertise for bids to build a bridge across Looking Glass creek in sec. 5, T. 17, R. 3 west. The following bills were allowed: Wilson Keeley, desk for probate office, $55.25; John Browner, judge of election $2.00; I.N. Taylor six months salary as probate judge, $37.50; C.B. STillman medicines $39.15; W. Gerhold balance on account Shell creek bridges $202.20.
Married, July 14, by Elder H.J. Hudson, at the residence of Hy Wellman, Robert Uhlig to Miss Josephine lockner, both of Butler county.
On July 19, occurred the marriage of Dr. Edward Hohen and Miss Jennie Agnes Brandt, both of this county. Elder H.J. Hudson performed the ceremony at the home of the bridegroom.
An Odd Fellows lodge is about to be organized at Madison.
The Columbus post office is open on Sundays from 8 to 10 a.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. Eastern mails close at 9:40 a.m. Western mails close at :20 [sic] p.m. Mail leaves Columbus for Madison and Norfolk each Tuesday 6 a.m., for Monroe and Genoa, Mondys [sic], Wednesdays and Fridays 10 a.m. for Pepperville, Savanah and Ashland, Wednesdays and Fridays 7 a.m.East Bound West Bound. Daily Express 10:05 a.m. 4:28 p.m. Mixed Train 2:30 a.m. 4:44 p.m. Freight 11:50 a.m. 2:10 a.m. Colony Accom. 9:10 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
(From files August 16, 1871).
E.J. Baker is erecting a store house on Nebraska avenue, one door south of Pierce's store.
The British House of Commons has passed a bill providing that voting in England shall hereafter be by ballot intead of the voice, as hearetofore.
One long stride toward the republican form of government.
We are indebted to Horace Hudson, son of H.J. Hudson for a fine big watermelon.
Sunday the residence of James and Thos. Russell four miles north of town, was burned to the ground.
After spending ten days at the Albany, instead of two, as he has originally planned, Dr. R.G. Floyd of Eurekea Springs, Ark., left last evening, with his bride, for California, where he expected to remain two days, instead of ten. This upsetting of Dr. Floyd's plans is due entirely to the delights of Colorado's winter climate. "I cannot understand why your people have been slow in coming to a full realization of the possibilities of Colorado as a water resort," declared the doctor, who is not only president of the Commercial club of Eureka Springs but also at the head of the Odd Fellow of Arkansas. "Why, you simply have all advertsied 'winter resorts' nailed to the mast.
(From files of Aug. 30, 1871.)
Mr. Rott killed the first rat seen in Columbus, one day this week.
You can now send money to your European friends by way of the Columbus postoffice.
It is now proposed to insure against the elements. What would our Puritan forefathers say to that.
M.T. Kinney will tomorrow open up his new store at Joe Baker's old stand.
Levi Jenkins of Union Creek was caller in town last week. Mr. Jenkins is a new resident in this country.
School begins in district No. 1., east Columbus, next Monday. Mr. Salathial Barrett, the teacher, is a soldier as well as a scholar, and has experience as a teacher in Ohio and Iowa.