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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. C. S. Olsen, of Minneapolis Minnesota, has left for his home after a visit of ten days in Francitas. Mr. R. Koebel, of McCook, Nebraska, accompanied by his two sons, was a recent visitor to Francitas, on a trip of inspection of his holdings here. R. H. VonKessel, our Rotund Real Estate Operator, has returned from a trip to St. Louis, which extended over the holidays. He brings with him tales of liquid cheer in profusion, and is now the object of a great deal of local envy. Mr. H. B. Fislar of the Cornish Oil Syndicte is once more in our midst. While he tells us that operations can hardly commence before sixty days, we are assured, never-the-less, that the work is actually to be done, although a trifle delayed, and that, after all is the main thing. We are happy to note the passage of the Four Power Treaty. This removes the fear--after the past protracted rainy spell--of seeing the Jap navy sail up the road from Palacios, through Deutschburg, to shell the stronghold of Francitas. We should have been a visitor to the City-by-the-Sea this week, had it not been too great a distance to row. In the leading paper of the writer's natal city--Philadelphia--the following extract from the letter of a party of autoists traveling through adjacent Texas territory was noted: "The climate is delightful and the roads good, is delightful and the roads good, but we have been greatly troubled by horned toads, which bite holes the size of silver dollars in the tires of our car." And we assure you that it is a mighty good town, monstrosities such as the above notwithstanding.
Palacios Beacon, January 13, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Miss Jean Ogden, daughter of Mr. R. B. Hadley left last week to enter the John Sealy Hospital of Galveston, taking the course in nursing in that institution. It is with great regret that we note the passing of Dr. J. H. McKay, of Houston, formerly a resident of Francitas. Dr. McKay was a man. It could be truly said of Dr. McKay, that to know him was to love him. Mr. J. P. Soerson, of Brownsville has been stopping at the Nebraska Inn for the past ten days. Mr. Soerson owns considerable property just South of Francitas, and is endeavoring to find a rentor for the coming season. We have to announce that the Francitas Land & Improvement Company, due to great expansion of business during the year just past, is forced to move into larger quarters, and after the first of February will be found occupying the large building owned by Mr. Chris Lubben, which stands west of the postoffice. It is with pleasure that we note the forming of a new real estate company in Francitas, which is to occupy the small building being vacated by the Francitas Land & Improvement Company. It is understood that the name of the company about to make its debut here will be the Francitas Real Estate & Rental Company. We wish for the new company years of prosperity commensurate with the success of the Francitas Land & Improvement Company during the profitable years of 1920 and 1921. The Palacios
Beacon, January 27, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) J. E. Hackett of San Francisco, accompanied by his wife, has arrived in Francitas. Mr. and Mrs. Hackett have driven from California in their car, camping along the route, and are in Francitas looking over property which they own. On Friday evening, March 24, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Lubben celebrated their silver wedding anniversary. The festivities came as a total surprise to Mr. Lubben, who was persuaded into absenting himself during the day, so that the necessary preparations could proceed without his knowledge. A representative gathering was present from Vanderbilt and Francitas, and included such prominent citizens as H. R. VonKessel, of Francitas, Mr. Cope of the Cope Settlement at Vanderbilt, and the Rev. Knoerenschild also of Vanderbilt, both the latter accompanied by their wives. An exceedingly abundant repast was served, the menu being too extensive to allow particularization, but it will suffice to say that the twenty guests partook of the repast with such good will that we doubt it enough remained to satisfy the two months old puppy owned by the writer. Mr. and Mrs. Lubben's three daughters, Misses Sophie, Elsie and Edna, who planned and executed the celebration, are to be warmly congratulated upon their industry, to say nothing of culinary ability. Deutschburg has just entertained an exceedingly unwelcome visitor. On Saturday, the 25th without apparent warning, a cyclone on a rampage dipped from the clouds, raged across the community from west to east and departed, leaving havoc in its wake. The farm of Mrs. H. Schutte was the chief sufferer. The barn was totally destroyed, outbuildings wrecked, fences torn up, trees uprooted and many chickens killed. The chickens were luckily the only casualties among the livestock. The force of the twister was strong enough to lift pieces of 4x8 timber and drive through the walls of the residence. Providentially no one was injured. The barn, silo and outbuildings of E. Johs were also destroyed, as was the barn of Mrs. Kabola. While the loss is great, particularly during times such as these, and while the owners of the damaged property are naturally rather depressed, they are going ahead with reconstruction to the best of their ability, looking forward hopefully to the coming crop season for relief from some of their difficulties. The path of the farmer can not be termed in any wise rose-strewn and occurrences such as this make it none the less thorny, but the proverbial grit, determination and refusal to stay down of the average American farmer has brought its reward in the past and will bring it in the future. Those who are cyclone-stricken have the sympathy of all, and may know that the best wishes of the surrounding communities are with them in their work of rehabilitation. The Palacios
Beacon, March 31, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mrs. Ellen J. Brown and son, Charles, recently returned from Bay City, where they had been for some time past. Contingents representing Palacios and Francitas will stage a fight to a finish in a ball game scheduled to take place on Saturday April 9th. Great activity has recently been observed in the line of house moving, a certain small building having been moved from one lot to another and back again within a week. Mr. J. Ross, of Trinidad, Colo., has arrived in Francitas, where he owns property. Mr. Ross was forced to abandon his car in North Texas, due to the recent excessive rains, and completed the trip by train. Being guilty of a grave omission in the mentioning of various prominent personages who attended the silver wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Chris. Lubben, the write desires to tender his apologies to Mr. J. F. Evers and family, of the Deutschburg Community, who were present at the festivities and to advance the assurance that the omission was due to lapse of memory rather than conscious negligence. At five A. M. Monday morning, the residence of T. J. Hobson burned to the ground. The fire was caused by the explosion of an oil stove, upon which Mr. Hobson was preparing his breakfast. Fortunately, Mr. Hobson escaped injury, and due to the fact that the majority of the furniture had been moved to the new home of the family at Buhler, the loss was not as great as it might have been. The property was fully insured. The writer has been requested to place a conundrum before the readers of the Beacon for their solution. The minds of this community have puzzled over the matter for some time, but have thus far failed to arrive at a solution. "This is it." Why does Harley C. Lewis, our worthy principal of our one and only school, persist in appearing upon the streets of Francitas, in shirt sleeves and kid gloves? We can understand the absence of the coat during this humid weather, but the gloves are beyond us. Prize for best solution of the mystery to be one embroidered collar button, same to be applied for to the Editor of the Beacon. All answers strictly confidential. The Palacios
Beacon, April 7, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. J. Ross, of Trinidad, Colo., is busy repairing his home in Francitas, preparatory to enjoying our incomparable climate during the next several months. Mr. August Oelke, of Omaha, Neb., arrived in Francitas on Tuesday, and was taken out to inspect his holdings by Mr. VonKessel and Hirsh of the Francitas Land & Improvement Co. Messrs. VonKessel, Willrodt and Hirsh were visitors to Palacios Monday, and after an afternoon of dissipation wherein much "koke" and near-as-lawful beer was consumed they returned to Francitas in a state of inebriation, which, if not real, was at least fancied. Francitas is glad to note the commencement of oil activity in the Palacios District, and altho it once appeared as if Francitas would take the lead in this respect, we still hope that altho this is not now possible, that we will nevertheless follow closely in the footsteps of the "City-by-the-Sea." In a hotly contested game of ball, the contingent representing Palacios defeated Francitas' prides to the tune of 7 to 2. No alibi is to be advanced for their defeat, but a whole-hearted spirit for revenge prevails, and it is hoped that a return game will be played to be staged in the "City-by-the-Sea." The Deutschburg Club held its monthly meeting Friday, April 8, most of the discussion being relative to cattle dipping. A great number of the farmers seem to be a trifle shy on enthusiasm in this respect, but the beneficial effects of dipping which are sure to become manifest, will doubtless dispel all such dissatisfaction. The benefits of dipping are not fallacious, but a proven fact, and there is no doubt that the community will be bettered thereby. The Palacios
Beacon, April 14, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. Ned Young returned to Francitas following a short visit in Houston. Pupils and teachers of the Francitas school are working hard preparatory to the school program and Commencement exercises which are to take place on Thursday and Friday. Evangelical services will be held in Francitas for the two weeks commencing Monday April17th, under the direction of the Reverend Waters. Rev. Waters comes to us with an enviable reputation, and the community is expected to turn out "en masse." It is with a great deal of satisfaction that we note the candidacy of R. H. VonKessel for County Commissioner. We feel confident that Mr. VonKessel will handle the office of Commissioner in the same conscientious and efficient manner in which he has handled the affairs of the Francitas Land & Improvement Company in the past, should he be elected. Simply to impress upon the editor the esteem in which his Francitas correspondent is held by the surrounding press, we mention the fact that of our having noticed an item written for the Beacon appearing prominently in the paper of the metropolis of Edna, an exceedingly large and progressive city, which boasts a paper of eight pages. The editor may soon expect a request to double our salary. The rotund countenance of the Beacon cast its cheering beams upon the elite of Francitas for a short period last Sunday. Talk of the new well and the oceans of oil to come gushed from his lips in a profuse stream, and if his prophesy is realized, we shall doubtless be successful in borrowing a couple of dollars from the Beacon "till" when we are visiting Palacios three or four months hence. The Palacios
Beacon, April 21, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mrs. William Jennings Bryan, wife of the great Commoner, arrived in Francitas on Tuesday morning. Mrs. Bryan is being entertained by the family of Mr. Wm. F. Schwind. As a fitting close to the school year in Francitas, a program was presented by the pupils on Thursday night, and the Commencement Exercises were held by the Graduating Class on Friday night, April 21st. The program was distinctly a success, and reflects greatly to the credit of the teachers, Misses Hunter, Ruthven and Mr. Lewis, as well as to the pupils who participated. All of the teachers above have been formally requested by the School Board to again take up their duties in the Francitas School next year, and we are confident that a better selection would be impossible. The program of the commencement exercises follow: 1. Invocation, Rev. W. O. Benold. 2. Commencement Chorus, Students. 3. Salutorian, Elsie Lubben. 4. Address, Rev. Waters. 5. Class History, Elsie Lubben. 6. Class song, "Lepus Parvulus Flevit," Class 7. Class Poem, Harold Kingham. 8. Class Prophecy, Hazel Dye. 9. Valedictorian, Harold Kingham. 10. Vocal Duet, Rev. and Mrs. Waters. 11. Class Will, Jewel Langston. 12. Presentation of Diplomas, Member School Board. On Saturday evening, April 22, a party in honor of Miss Greenwald was given by Mrs. C. C. Nicks. While we realize that society reporters are expected to describe the apparel of the various members of the "more deadly sex," we are forced to state that such matters as organdie, tulle batiste, or oilcloth as the case may be, are entirely beyond our powers of destinction, so that the Beacon readers must pardon the omission relative to the above event. On Saturday last, April 22nd, Mr. R. H. VonKessel successfully underwent an operation for appendicitis, at the John Sealy Hospital in Galveston. We look forward to his speedy and complete recovery, and have been assured that it will not be long before he is again with us. The Palacios
Beacon, April 28, 1922
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Mrs. William Jennings Bryan is spending the week at Francitas as the guest of Mrs. Wm. F. Schwind. Mrs. Bryan and Mrs. Schwind have been friends since early girlhood days, and this visit is an exceedingly enjoyable event for both of them. This is Mrs. Bryan's second visit to Francitas she and her distinguished husband having visited there some years ago as the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Schwind. Mrs. Bryan accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Schwind motored to Palacios Wednesday. She was delighted with our beautiful little city of Palacios by the Sea and its prosperous surrounding territory. The Palacios
Beacon, April 28, 1922 |
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Palacios Beacon, April 28, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Representatives of the Houston Oil Company arrived in Francitas on Monday, and after looking over the territory, left on the following day. While we do not claim to be psychic, telepathic or any of the kindred "ics," we are willing to be a plugged nickel that the impressions which were carried away in the minds of the oil men were entirely favorable. We would like to impress upon the minds of the uninitiated the fact that drilling for oil in the Francitas District is as inevitable as the rising of the sun, discouraging as the prospects may at times appear. R. H. VonKessle, of the Francitas Land & Improvement Company, candidate for County Commissioner, who recently was operated for appendicitis, sends word that he is doing nicely and that he will once again cheer our presence within the next fourteen days. Mr. Matt Starkovich, of Trinidad, Colorado, arrived in Francitas on Saturday morning. On Sunday, accompanied by M. Hirsh, of the Francitas Land & Improvement Company. Mr. Starkovich stood for the first time on the twenty acres which he owns here, and expressed himself as being entirely satisfied with his investment. Messrs. James Ross, of Colorado, H. F. Willrodt, of Deutschburg, and Hirsh, of Francitas, made a flying trip to Palacios on Monday, where Mr. Ross renewed an old friendship with the Beacon's Commander in Chief, who is, by the way, not so rotund as he was wont to be. Mr. Ross is one of the "oldtimers" of Francitas, and remembers clearly what one now hears of as the good old days when--but we shall go no further. We all are familiar with the general trend of reminiscences of the old settlers. The Palacios
Beacon, May 12, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. R. H. VonKessel, recently operated on for appendicitis, has suffered a slight relapse, which has delayed his homecoming for a week or ten days. The Beacon seems very different minus the contributions of Jesse Campbell, our poet laureate. Every paper of any pretensions these days has its poet and "columnist" and we look forward to the day when Jesse will again take his pen in hand and create for us once more his refreshing paragraphs. Francitas oil prospects are decidedly on the "pick-up." In addition to the five oil men, who were mentioned in the last issue of the Beacon, two additional prospectors have recently visited Francitas. Watch for the consummation of our prediction of the inevitability of drilling in this district. It's coming, and it may come soon. On a trip overland to Cuero last Saturday, the writer was struck by the universally excellent crop prospects. Splendid stands of corn and cotton were in evidence, and granting reasonable weather the much needed banner crop year seems in the making, and the grit and determination of the farmers of the Gulf Coast country will be well rewarded. The Palacios
Beacon, May 19, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) J. W. Dye, son of Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Dye, of Francitas, is a recent arrival in Francitas. R. H. VonKessel, Manager of the Francitas Land & Improvement Company has returned to Francitas from Galveston, having almost completely recovered from his recent operation. Word has been received from Edna that R. P. Falkner, formerly of Francitas, late of California, is now lodged in the County jail, the result of alleged misdeeds committed during the period of his residence in Francitas. On Thursday, May 18, a party in honor of Mr. C. O. Hardy, celebrating his birthday was held. Forty-two games were much in favor, five tables being occupied. Toward the end of the evening, exceedingly tasty refreshments were served, and included a birthday cake measuring approximate two feet across, or at least appearing so, and a forest of candles, the number of which is difficult, and in addition, an accurate count would not be diplomatic. The guests were as follows: Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Wingert, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bentz, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Kingham, Mrs. Harry Ellis, H. B. Fislar, V. A. Egger, Harold and Ellis Kingham, Watts Langston, Misses Sophie and Elsie Lubben, Jewel Langston, Leta Kingham, Edgar Meyer, Vance Dye, Glenn Ellis and the writer. The Palacios
Beacon, May 26, 1922 |
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Francitas, the charming, daintily swishing her abbreviated skirts in the pleasant way she knows so well how, smiles a welcome to Mr. H. B. Fislar, erstwhile prominent citizen of Lincoln, Nebraska, but now to be connected with the First State Bank of Francitas, as a permanent citizen. Mr. Fislar's faith in Francitas as the early metropolis of a vast oil district, his interest in the Cornish Oil Syndicate--and a few other et ceteras, is the direct cause of his promotion to this goodly clime; where we hope his most lavish expectations may be realized in prodigal abundance--and durned soon.
Palacios Beacon, June 13, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. R. B. Hadly has left Francitas for Ark., where he will make his future home. Mr. Mike Lazovich, of Colorado has been in Francitas for the past several days. Mr. Lazovich was the partner of Mr. George Boretta, formerly a resident of Francitas for the purpose of administering his interests. R. H. VonKessel, Candidate for County Commissioner in the 3rd precinct of Jackson County, made his debute on the "stump" on Monday at the Carancahua school house, where a meeting for all County Candidates was held. Mr. VonKessel's address was short but to the point and was exceptionally received. Oil prospects in Francitas are decidedly on the move. During the past month an indefinite number of prospectors have visited the vicinity, prowling about in a manner inevitably associated with the petroleum sleuth, and departing after their labors with sealed lips and mysterious expressions--whether of satisfaction or disgust I can not say--leaving us palpitating with anxiety as to their findings, but in complete and total ignorance of their intentions. It would not surprise us to see a derrick in the course of erection here sometime in the future. While listening to the addresses of the various County Candidates at Caranchua on Monday night, the writer was forcibly struck with the fact that the Ku Klux Klan and Ku Kluxism was one of the chief issues. Arguments pro and con were of the most bitter sort. While the writer is unutterly apposed to the Ku Klux Klan, it is regrettable that such arguments should appear as a vital issue in a political campaign. After all, it is the man himself who is the actual and only issue, and it is our contention that one may faithfully and efficiently administer the duties of public office, regardless of membership in an organization such as the above. The Palacios
Beacon, June 23, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. Mike Lazovich has returned to his home in Colorado following a visit of about two weeks in Francitas. Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Evers, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Lubben, R. Lubben and Miss Edna Lubben visited Vanderbilt last Sunday. Albert and George Goodloe have recently departed from the Bell Hotel here, following a short visit. The Goodloes have announced their intention of starting an orange grove on their land here, which is intended to start this district on the road to rival the great citrus regions of the Valley and California. C. O. Hardy and family, Miss Sophie Lubben and R. H. VonKessel, chaperoned by the writer, journeyed to Palacios last Sunday, stopping at the coming "Greatest oil well in the United States," the Taylor No. 1, enroute. While there was nothing in particular to see, we fell rewarded simply by gazing upon the well of which the infallible clairvoyants have spoken so highly. More power to their prophesies. C. W. Gibson has returned from Austin, where he has been visiting his family. He states that owing to the delay in making collections, he finds it impossible to reopen for business before the 15th of July. Among others, the Francitas Land & Improvement Company and the editor of the Beacon sympathize with Mr. Gibson in regard to the difficulty in collecting. Dollars are few and far between and even where they are in evidence, one needs must possess the silver tongue of an orator to charm them from the pockets of their possessors. The county candidates made their appearance within the townsite Thursday night a week ago. We once again wish to go on record with the statement that if there was less "mud-slinging," less of futile and inappropriate recitation of fancied disqualifications of opponents, and more sane, well delivered, well composed statements of facts, intentions and ability of self, the result would be a credit and distinct aid to those seeking office. The present order of things does not intend to promote either credit, respect or the procurement of votes. The Palacios Beacon,
June 30, 1922 |
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Henry Bentz, his mother and two sons, motored to Palacios Thursday. The trial of W. L. Beatty on four charges entered against him by several members of the community, is to be held on the 17th day of July, at Edna. A representative of the Continental Gin Company was in Francitas Wednesday, endeavoring to either sell or rent the gin, on which his company has a mortgage, to some responsible party. Despite the threatening weather, a general exodus from town occurred on the Fourth of July, the great part of the community hitting the trail for various centers of celebration. For once old Jupe Pluvius was considerate, and the moisture which fell was insufficient to seriously mar the enjoyments of the day. When the county candidates assemble at Deutschburg Saturday for their last address in Precinct No. 4, they will find refreshments in abundance provided by that community, which will be dispensed with at a nominal price. The feature of the evening will be the raffling of a cake, which is to be presented to the best looking of those seeking a county office. Right here we wish to state that it is a fortunate thing for the candidates that the writer is not eligible for the prize. The entire community joins in expressing their deepest sympathy for Mr. Dismukes and his family in the deepest sorrow and bereavement which the race of man must suffer--the death of a beloved daughter. Sympathy is poor compensation for such an inestimable loss, but the community remembers the days when the Dismukes were residents of Francitas, considering him, in a great measure, still one of them, and while their sympathy needs must be expressed through the medium of the press, it is none the less heartfelt and sincere.
Palacios Beacon, July 7, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) R. H. VonKessel, J. M. Young, Herman Winter, Walter Willrodt and M. Hirsh were in Edna on Tuesday. A picnic, organized by the Deutschburg Community Club, is to be held on Friday, July 21, in the park north of the Carancahua bridge. Arrangements are being made for the laying of a dance floor, and suitable music is expected to be present. Other attractions are being planned which should materially add to the enjoyments of the day. A large attendance is expected, and general invitation is extended to the surrounding communities to be present. The election for offices in Jackson county will be, according to recent indications, extremely close. Every candidate with whom we have spoken expresses extreme confidence of the ultimate result. The choice of the County for the various offices is practically impossible to forecast, but we do know to a certainty that all the candidates--with the exception of one for each office--are due for a bitter disappointment. The exceptions will be correspondingly elated. How long this feeling of elation will continue is questionable. Probably until realization of what a thankless job the holding of a public office is, comes to them. |
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(By Mason Hirsh) C. W. Gibson has announced that he will not reenter in business in Francitas, and has departed for North Texas. Dr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Hood of Palacios were in Francitas last Wednesday, visiting the Jesse Campbell's, at Orchard Place. The Sunday School held a picnic at the River Park on Wednesday, a ball game between teams composed entirely of women featuring the events of the day. Mrs. Olive Sutton and her daughter, of Bering, Texas, are at the Nebraska Inn. Mrs. Sutton is the daughter of Mrs. Hattie E. Heidy, proprietress of the Inn. Miss Rachel Brown of Palacios formerly of Francitas, returned to her old haunts on Wednesday, on a visit to the Bonnot Ranch. Upon the arrival for the time for her return, the proprietors of the Francitas Land & Improvement Co., R. H. VonKessel and Mason Hirsh, were drafted--only too willingly on their part--for escort duty, and remained in Palacios until Thursday. On Sunday, July 16th, an impromptu picnic party journeyed to Port Alto on Carahcahua Bay. After reveling in the briny deep (?) until sunset, prodigious quantities of food were consumed and there followed an agreeable losstude, lasting until the time for departure had arrived. The party included Mrs. Hattie E. Heidy, Mrs. Geneva Guyon, Miss Frances Ruthven of Palacios, Misses Sophie and Elsie Lubben, Miss Jewel Langston, Mr. H. B. Fislar, J. L. Dalby of Houston and Mason Hirsh, Helen Heidy and Edna Lubben. Mr. W. M. Davies, of the Philippines Islands, recently of China, and more recently of Mexico, dropped off in Francitas on Saturday to inspect his holdings. Mr. Davies was greatly interested in the rice farms of the vicinity, and after inspecting the fields and pumping plant of Al Landin pronounced the farm as being infinitely superior to any to be found in China. After spending an enjoyable Saturday afternoon with Messrs. VonKessel and Hirsh of the Francitas Land & Improvement Co., Mr. Davies was guest of Mr. Wm. F. Schwind on Sunday, departing on Sunday afternoon for Honduras. The Palacios
Beacon, July 21, 1922 |
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Mr. Hugh Dismukes and Mrs. J. W. Dismukes paid a short visit to Francitas Thursday. Mr. Oliver Sutton, of Bering, Texas, has joined his wife and daughter at the Nebraska Inn. Mr. H. B. Fislar, cashier of the First State Bank here, is planning to visit his home in Lincoln, Nebraska, leaving the first part of the coming week. R. H. VonKessel, Glenn Ellis and Ray Foote made up a hiking party on Wednesday night, walking from Blessing to Francitas, under the light of the stars. The expedition was not of their own volition, however. A bearing in their car behaved very abdominally, and forced them to alight and "hoof it." The net result; income for the garage man, and sulphorous atmosphere. Mr. Walter Beatty's aim is not as good as it might be these days. We do not know whether it was the heat, or possibly the darkness, but in an endeavor to drive his car into the garage, Mr. Beatty missed the door by half the width of the car, breaking one half of the doors into two separate pieces, without damaging the car, which is, by the way, saying a great deal for the car. The hectic days of political campaigning in Jackson County are over for another two years. Candidates for office have been successful and defeated. In defeat, an extremely commendable spirit of good sportsmanship has thus far prevailed, and in victory, an absence of egotism and gloating. Give me the man who can go down in defeat and with a smile on his face, and no rancor in his heart. His is half the victory. The Deutschburg Community Club Fair, which was held on Friday, July 21st, was successful beyond the utmost hopes of the community. It was estimated that between one hundred and fifty and two hundred were present during the afternoon, and about one hundred attended the dance that evening. The refreshment stand was busy from morning until midnight, and several times found it necessary to send to town to replenish its supply of cold drinks. During the afternoon, a swimming race was held, a ball game played and a horse race terminated the day's events. The dance that night, held under a glorious canopy of stars was most enjoyable. While the floor--hastily laid during the afternoon was rather rough in spots, the delight of dancing in the cool air to excellent music more than offset this disadvantage. Thirty-eight men contributed to the fund to offset the expenses, and a number more were spectators. There were girls enough for all, and the revelers did not cease from their enjoyment until about one-thirty a. m. The spirit which was manifested by all those present was an admirable example of Community harmony, and it is hoped that ere many moons have gone out into the past, another and even more satisfactory and enjoyable affair of similar nature will be held.
Palacios Beacon, July 28, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh) Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Barnes and family arrived in Francitas on Tuesday, after having motored through from North Texas. Mr. Barnes has announced his intention of going into the grocery business here. The building in which is located the Post Office and the home of C. O. Hardy, narrowly escaped destruction by fire on Monday morning. A dish towel hanging near the stove became ignited, and the blaze soon communited itself to the wall. When discovered, the fire had been under way only a short time, and prompt action on the part of Mr. and Mrs. Hardy subdued the blaze until water was brought and the conflagration totally extinguished. In a terrifically fought ball game on Tuesday, the married ladies went down to honorable defeat at the hands of the girls, the score being 25 to 14. Hair raising plays were made by members of both teams, and a return game is being looked forward to. Saturday's schedule includes ball games between the married women and the married men and between the girls and the boys. The boys are to wear skirts and throw left handed, and we greatly fear that they are doomed to the defeat of their lives. |
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(By Mason Hirsh) R. P. Falkner, formerly of Francitas, is again in our midst. Mr. R. C. Young and Mrs. Young, of Houston, paid a two day's visit to Mr. Young's father, J. M. Young, this week. Oliver Sutton paid a week-end visit to Francitas, from Kingsville, where he is working in the railroad shops. C. O. Barnes, who recently came to Francitas from North Texas, has opened for business a grocery store known as the "New Store." The community wishes him success and prosperity in his new enterprise. One thing is certain: While times are not exactly booming in this particular section, there is no scarcity of work at the present time. On the contrary, there seems to be a decided shortage of labor. Cotton pickers are in demand, and W. H. Wingert, who conducts the warehouse here, is hard put to find sufficient help to handle the rice which is flowing in. Mr. H. B. Fislar, cashier of the First State Bank of Francitas, returned on Sunday, after an absence of two weeks spent in Lincoln, Nebraska. Mr. Fislar reports bumper crops in the Cornhusker State, and a general impression of improved financial and working conditions. There seems to be little doubt, despite the various labor troubles, that the above conditions are spreading over the country, and that another year should see conditions close to the standard which we were wont to call normal. The Palacios
Beacon, August 25, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh)
Walter Willrodt, of Omaha, is a recent arrival in Francitas.
R. H. VonKessel has been among those present in Edna for the past three days.
Wm. F Schwind, who recently was East, where, rumor hath it, he was engaged in lining up an oil proposition for the Great Francitas District, is again at home. However, a clam has nothing on Mr. Schwind when it comes to telling of things accomplished, and all the community knows is conjecture, and that amounts to nothing.
W. H. Wingart is this year's representative from Francitas on the Grand Jury, which is now in session. While not particularly enthusiastic about serving, Mr. Wingart remembered his duty as a citizen, (just between us folks, Judge Green wouldn't excuse him) and will be found in Edna for several days, helping to levy justice with an impartial hand.
Miss Ethlin O'Sullivan, of St. Louis, recently paid a short visit to R. H. VonKessel, her uncle. Unfortunately, the vaunted climate of this section was conspicuous by its absence, the heavens weeping copiously for an entire week. While rather disappointed, Miss O'Sullivan anticipates a return visit during the winter, at which time we trust an entirely different impression of the country hereabouts may be created.
One of the most important arrivals in Francitas in recent days was a member of the aristocracy, the bluest blood of dogdom flowing through the veins of a setter pup which now follows at the heels of W. H. Wingart. The puppy journeyed from far off North Carolina, unchaperoned, and seems thoroughly satisfied in her new environment. The aristocratic young lady seems exceedingly anxious to make her debut this December when quail will be legitimate game and needless to say, her owner is just as anxious for the arrival of that time as she is.
On Monday night, September 25th, Mr. William Koch, long a resident of Francitas, departed upon the long voyage from which there is no returning. Mr. Koch's death, which occurred while he slept, followed a long and painful illness, all the trials and agony of which he bore with great fortitude, his customary cheerfulness at all times prevailing. Mr. Koch celebrated his fifty-ninth birthday last July. He was born in Berlin, Germany, coming to the United States while in his early twenties. While not unexpected, his passing comes as a distinct blow to all who knew him. He was universally admired and respected and memories of Mr. Koch are destined to be attended by regard and affection to an unusual degree. The sympathies of the community are extended to the family of one of its best citizens.
The Palacios Beacon, September 29, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh)
Theodore Koch has returned to Francitas, following visits to Houston and Cuero.
Mrs. J. W. Dismukes, Associate editor of the Palacios Beacon, visited Francitas on business Wednesday.
A change of personnel in the Francitas depot has occurred. W. Keefer now occupies the position of which W. L. Beatty was the former incumbent.
Don't forget the Jackson County Fair which is to be held in Edna, Nov. 10 and 11. This promises to be the biggest event of the year. Be sure and attend.
J. E. Woodlee, of Strawn, Texas, recently spent several days in Francitas. Mr. Woodlee plans to improve his farm of 30 acres, which lies west of Francitas and has been lining things up pending his return.
The news of the birth of a son to Mr. and Mrs. Herman Roda, formerly of Deutschburg now of Freeport, has recently been received. All of the friends of the Roda family join in expressions of felicitation.
It endows one with a feeling of prosperity to visit the rice warehouse of W. H. Wingart these days. The staff of life of the Orient is flowing through in a steady stream and the returns are sure to be gratifying to all concerned. The rice industry here is a distinct asset to the community, providing employment to a great number of persons, and bringing money into the district which otherwise would have gone elsewhere. Long may this branch of agriculture thrive and expand.
The Francitas school is the proud possessor of an essential to school life, which has long been a pressing need, but for some reason could not be procured--a piano. Funds to purchase the instrument were raised by popular subscription, and much credit is due to the indefatigable efforts of Misses Crawford, Belknap and Hazel Dye, who were constant in their effort to entice the dollars from the pockets of the citizens until a sufficient sum had been accumulated to accomplish the desired end.
The Palacios Beacon, October 20, 1922 |
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Palacios Beacon, November 10, 1922 |
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Palacios Beacon, December 1, 1922 |
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(By Mason Hirsh)
It is with regret that the writer resumes the role of chronicler, to record the passing of Mrs. Chris Lubben, of Francitas.
Following a brief illness, Mrs. Lubben embarked upon the one journey from which there is not returning, at 8:15 p.m., Saturday, December 9th. Her husband and two daughters, Elsie and Edna, were at her bedside at her death. Mr. Renke Lubben and Miss Sophia Lubben, the former a Professor of Mathematics at the University at Austin and the latter a student at that institution, did not arrive in Francitas until Sunday.
The funeral services were held on Monday at 3 p.m., the Rev. Knoerenschild, of the Koop settlement north of Vanderbilt, officiating. The ceremony was conducted under the canopy of the sky, and was impressively solemn and consoling. Hymns were sung by the many grouped about the coffin, the melody rising unrestrained upon the still air. Practically the entire population of Francitas, as well as many friends of the deceased from the Koop settlement and from Deutschburg were present to pay a last tribute of respect and affection to the departed. Messrs. W. H. Wingart, J. L. Stall, J. F. Evers, Gus L. E. Smith, T. A. McCoy and J. M Young acted as pall bearers.
No one who knew Mrs. Lubben can but reflect with deepest sorrow and regret upon her untimely end, in the midsummer of her life. But to her family and friends, stricken with grief in their irreparable loss, there is supreme consolation in the thought of the words which formed the theme of the funeral services--"He that believeth in Me, though he be dead, yet shall he live." And as it is an incontestable fact that Mrs. Lubben was a Christian in the truest sense of the word, so it is also certain that her passing is not death, but the beginning of life; an incomparably better and happier life than that of the mortal body.
In the death of a woman such as Mrs. Lubben, words, no matter how flowery or well chosen, are futile to express the magnitude of the loss which is the entire community's and words which would do justice to the sterling character and lovable traits of the deceased, are certainly infinitely beyond the poor power of the pen which writes this.
It is quite unnecessary to state that the sympathies of all Francitas, as well as of the host of other sincere friends, are with the bereaved family.
Mrs. Lubben was born in Germany, and would have been 41 years old on the day following her death, December 10th. Mr. and Mrs. Lubben were among the earliest of Francitas settlers.
The Palacios Beacon, December 15, 1922 |