THE WAR YEARS - PART IV: 1918

By early 1918 the national war effort was in full swing and the ladies of Bay City did their part by taking a first aid course sponsored by the Red Cross. There was bandage rolling at the old Parish House and the town as a whole instituted an all-out Liberty Bond drive.

It was in the midst of this drive, right at harvest time, that the influenza epidemic of World War I struck the city. Mrs. Hattie Harper was one of the first cases, being almost recovered by the time the illness was finally diagnosed. It was not until a death or two had occurred that people realized the seriousness of the epidemic. Camps were set up in the areas of harvesting where men were stretched out one by one on the floor for treatment as they became ill.

Bay City and Matagorda County: A History by Junann J. Steighorst, page 142
 

MATAGORDA PHARMACY

In 1918 an influenza epidemic hit Bay City. When Paris Smith contracted influenza, his wife and Frank Carr operated the drugstore for ten days while he was ill. When a customer with influenza entered the store, he was handed a bottle of aspirin, as no prescriptions could be filled. When Smith finally returned to work, he, alone, filled 225 prescriptions, while his wife typed the directions.

The Daily Tribune, January 21, 1977
 

Spanish influenza having its inning now, innumerable cases being reported.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 4, 1918
 

ANNA MARY CULVER
 

ASHWOOD NEWS

Mr. J. P. Smith was quite ill last week with an attack of influenza, but we are glad to report him much improved at this writing.

Dr. Scott of Bay City was called to the home of Mr. J. F. Smith Friday.

Mr. J. P. Chastun and family have all been on the sick list this week with influenza.

Dr. Simons of Bay City was called to the home of Mr. J. F. Chastun Saturday.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 11, 1918
 

Jessie Freeman Gaedcke

Mrs. W. F. Gaedcke - Jessie Freeman Gaedcke

The sad news of the death of Mrs. W. F. Gaedcke, which occurred at her home a few miles east of the city last night, reached the city this morning and cast a gloom of sadness over the hearts of her legion of friends and acquaintances in the city.

For several years this good woman lived a neighbor to the writer and family, who found in her a sweet, friendly woman, ever anxious and willing to do her part in anything that was good, Christian-like and elevating.

She was a noble woman in every sense of the word, a devoted mother and wife, a home-lover and builder, and it is with the deepest and sincerest regret that her death is chronicled.

To the bereaved father and son the sympathy and condolence of the entire city is extended.

Daily Tribune, October 12, 1918
 

CLARENCE E. GILMORE
 

LOUIS HAMILTON McINTOSH

Pneumonia claimed another victim yesterday in the death of Louis Hamilton McIntosh at the Bay City Hospital.

The funeral took place this afternoon after service held at the home of Mr. Jim Carson, a brother-in-law.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 18, 1918

Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins

Photo courtesy of Gayle French
 

DOCTORS, NURSES, NURSES AIDES AND CITIZENS TAKE NOTICE.

The Red Cross is making an effort to assist where it may in the influenza epidemic, and it will render financial aid under the authority of the physicians and nurses of the town. If such is desired, please communicate with Mrs. Mayfield, phone 812F2.

The members who have taken the necessary course toward rendering assistance are listed below, and they are urgently requested to put themselves at the disposition of the physicians and nurses that they may co-operate in every way to the benefit of the community.

There is much sickness among the families of these nurses' aides, but as the crest of the epidemic passes, more are released from home duties and the Red Cross is preeminently engaged in relieving the distress wherever it exists to such an extent that the authorities have to be called upon. This is the first opportunity of service which has arisen and it is desired that the Red Cross may fulfill its obligations in the civilian as well as n the military field.

The citizens at large are requested the report their ability to further these efforts by serving as messengers, with or without autos, for the transportation of medicine, hot food and other necessities.

Mrs. James S. Mayfield, phone 812F2, is ready to receive all responses to this call from the Red Cross.

Those who have taken the Red Cross courses are:

Matagorda County Tribune, October 18, 1918
 

This is a time when all people should be considerate of the difficult conditions attending public service. Five employees of the post office are absent from their post of duty and Postmaster Collins and relief force are making commendable efforts to meet the emergency. The same is true of the express company, telephone company, banks, newspapers and general public business. The installation of new workers due to war conditions together with the prevailing physical distress has rendered public service of all kinds a difficult task, and it will greatly help the situation if instead of criticism and thoughtless fault-finding, everyone should co-operate in good spirit and bear one another's burdens.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 18, 1918
 

"Flu" flu in on the Tribune force from delivery boy to the editor this week and up to the present writing it has refused to flu out. We are doing all we possibly can under the circumstances and ask our readers to bear with us until we get going again. Those who have had it will understand this and grant us anything we might want.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 18, 1918
 

Carrie E. Laxton
April 22, 1884 - October 19, 1918

Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas
Section 2, Block 75
Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas
 

BEULAH LANGSTON

CONDITIONS BETTER.

The schools have remained closed this week, but we understand it is the intention of the authorities to open Monday. With the opening of the schools, the ban will in all probability be lifted from all public gatherings which will mean churches, picture show, etc., will be again opened to the public after being closed for two weeks.

We learn from the physicians that conditions are much better and that the epidemic of influenza has about run its course.

There are practically no new cases, but a good many are still confined to their rooms.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918
 

IN MEMORY OF THERON CARR

There is a Reaper whose name is Death,

And with his sickle keen,

He reaps the bearded blade at a breath,

And the flowers that grow between.

This grim Reaper came and claimed as his own Theron  Carr, October 18, 1918.

Death is always unwelcome, but doubly so when he comes in the beginning of a life so full of promise, of usefulness as was Theron's. Young, just 22 years old, energetic, brave and true, his life only needed time to prove its worth. All too soon the little home they had builded was broken up, and his girl-wife left alone in the cottage to long for his footfall at the evening hour--for the voice that calls no more. Just sixteen months ago he had married his boyhood sweetheart and those few months were of happiness--making plans for a future so bright to both of them.

Life was so sweet, and the dear little baby boy that had come to them was the crowning joy to the young father and mother. We plan, God executes. It was His will that Theron "come on Home," and the summons came. The home here is a shattered dream, the Home up there is just a little way ahead, and straight and narrow is the path that we must travel to enter its doors.

Theron realized from the first few days that he must go but the loved ones could not give up the hope that his strength would outlast the fever, but the end came, with his mother and his wife at his side to watch him cross over the river "unto life eternal." Theron left a loving wife and baby boy, father, mother, brothers and a sister to grieve; also a host of friends--all who knew him were his friends--whose hearts were saddened by his going away.

Let us all live lives of service so that when our call comes we may be ready to meet those gone on before.

A Friend.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918
Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

ROXY JANE McNAUGHT [BOOTH]

Roxy Jane McNaught was born at Indianola, Warren Co., Iowa, January 22, 1867, and departed this life at Hasima, Texas, October 19, 1918, age 51 years, 9 months and 27 days.

She was married to Chas. Lewis Booth at Indianola, Iowa, October 27, 1887. To them were born seven children, five of whom are still living. Two boys, Albert Lee and Lewis Adolphus died in infancy.

She was a member of the Christian Church, a kind neighbor, a faithful wife and a loving mother.

She leaves to mourn her loss her husband, Chas. Lewis Booth, of Hasima, Texas, Mrs. Wm. Meer of Ogden, Kan.; Mrs. Nettie Rollins of Chicago, Ill.; Maggie Ruby Booth, Chas. Edward Booth and Dosia Elizabeth Booth of the home address, all of whom were present; two grandsons, Wesley Lee White and William Fredrick Meer, Jr., and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Frank Knittle of Alva, Okla.; Mr. Adolphus G. McNaught of Lewiston, Mont.; Mrs. Frank Chick of Woodward, Okla., and Mrs. Ira Lee McNaught of Moreland, Okla.

The Daily Tribune, October 25, 1918
 

ASHWOOD

Mr. J. K. Smith went to Pledger Monday.

The Ashwood school has been closed almost two weeks on account of the illness of both teacher and pupils with influenza.

Miss Iszoria Toups returned to the city Sunday from her home in Beeville, where she was seriously ill for a week with influenza.

Influenza has visited very family in Ashwood, and even though it has been bad, we are thankful to report that there has been no deaths in the white district, and only on in the colored district.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918
 

C. G. LUNDY

After a short illness of pneumonia, C. G. Lundy died at his home in Blessing this morning at 7:30 o'clock.

Deceased was section foreman at the place, having moved from Buckeye only a short time ago.

At the time of this notice funeral arrangements had not been made.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918

CARD OF THANKS

We want to extend heartfelt thanks to the friends who came to our assistance and extended practical help and needed sympathy during the recent illness and the death of S. J. Lundy. We will always treasure in our hearts the names and deeds of those who came to us in these trying hours, and will never cease to feel deepest appreciation for all that was done.

Mrs. S. J. Lundy and Relatives.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 1, 1918
 

MATAGORDA

...our town has been most fortunate during the Spanish influenza wave. The epidemic has almost swept the town and there have been no pneumonia developments or any deaths among the white citizens and only one death in Negro town. We have to hand it to our popular town physician for handling the situation so successfully.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918
 

HUGH B. EIDMAN

After an illness of only a few days with influenza, Hugh B. Eidman departed this life this morning about 11 o'clock.

Deceased was a prominent businessman of this city, and was associated with his brother, S. O. Eidman, in the automobile business.

Funeral arrangements are awaiting word from a sister in Chicago.

Besides other relatives he leaves a wife to mourn his death.

The Tribune joins the many friends of the bereaved in offering condolence and sympathy.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, October 25, 1918

RESOLUTIONS OF RESPECT.

To the Worshipful Master and Brothers, Bay City Lodge, 865, A. F. & A. M.

Brothers:

The undersigned committee appointed to draft resolutions of respect upon the death of our deceased brother, Hugh B. Eidman, beg to submit the following:

WHEREAS, on the 23rd day of October, A. D. 1918, at his home in Bay City, Texas, our beloved brother, Hugh B. Eidman, was called by the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe from his labors here below to rest and refreshments in that Celestial Lodge above;

AND WHEREAS, by his sudden taking off we are again reminded of that truism, "In the midst of life, we are in death," for though Brother Eidman was strong, was sick only a short time when stricken with the malady which ended his useful and worthy career;

AND WHEREAS a seat in our lodge room is left vacant, yet we would point to him as a model whose example is worthy of emulation.

Brother Eidman was married to Miss Beulah Nuckols, who with his parents, sisters and brothers, survive him and mourn his loss.

Brother Eidman was made a Mason at Bay City, Texas, June 11, 1906.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THIS LODGE,

First, that in the death of Brother Eidman this lodge has lost a worthy and loyal member, and his family a devoted husband, and the county and State one of her best citizens.

Second, that his lodge tenders to the bereaved family its most sincere condolences in this sad affliction and bereavement and for consolation would point to "Him who tempers the wind to the shorn lamb."

Third, that the members of this lodge wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.

Fourth, that these resolutions be spread upon the minutes of this lodge and that a copy he furnished his wife.

All of which is respectfully and fraternally submitted.

Geo. E. Serrill

E. N. Gustafson

John F. Perry,

Committee

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 1, 1918
 

MARKHAM ITEMS

The Markham school reopened October 28, after a quarantine of two weeks.

Influenza has visited every family in Markham, resulting in pneumonia in a number of cases. The untiring efforts of the physicians made the number of fatalities very small.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 1, 1918
 

  Theodore Clifford Bankhead

June 15, 1896 - October 29, 1918
Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas

Son of Edward Newton Bankhead (June 28, 1843 - January 1, 1906)
& Ada Choate Bankhead (November 8, 1865 - October 23, 1924)

"During the flu epidemic Ada Bankhead lost her son Clifford. He was an avid hunter
and due to exposure on a hunting trip, had  relapse of the "flu" and died in 1918."
Historic Matagorda County, Volume II, pp 18 - 19
 

MRS. KATE DOUGLAS AND MRS. MABLE WILLIAMS

October, 1918
Of the many sad things connected with this terrible scourge of influenza, there has not been one more pathetic than the death of Mrs. Kate Douglas, and that of her daughter Mrs. Mable Williams, Tuesday of this week. They were both victims of pneumonia following attacks of influenza, and died twelve hours apart, Mrs. Douglas passing away early Tuesday morning, and Mrs. Williams, at 3 o'clock P.M. of the same day. The sorrow of it all is increased very much, by the fact, that Mrs. Ella Nicholson, Mrs. Douglas's other daughter was taken on Tuesday of last week, just a week ahead of mother and sister, who were called to her bedside to minister to her in her last illness. Mrs. Douglas and Mrs. Williams were both sick when called to go to Blessing to nurse Mrs. Nicholson, and hurried back home right after her death, and went to bed, both of them very sick. Pneumonia developed, right away, and after a week's battle with this dread disease, both of them growing worse each day, the passed over almost together. Careful nursing and skillful services of the physician were given them, but, death had marked them for his own, and all that love and devotion could do, could not keep them with those who loved them. No doubt they found daughter and sister, who had slipped away just a week ahead of them, waiting at the "Beautiful Gate" to give them welcome.

Mrs. Douglas belonged to one of the old families of Matagorda County. Her father, Ben Kuykendall, was one of the old settlers, and here she was born and reared, and this she counted her home always. She was twice married: first to Samuel Grant, to whom five children were born, and then to W. L. Douglas who survives her. When a girl, she was converted, and joined the Methodist Church, and died in its pales, and with abiding faith in God. She loved her home, her children, her church, and God, and was a good neighbor, and devoted friend. During these days and weeks of prevailing sickness, she hunted out the poor and neglected ones, as long as her strength allowed, and was faithful in ministering to them in their sickness and need. Her last hours and days, were full of prayer for her boy "over the seas" and who is the only child one of her five, left to weep for her going. A good woman has served her day and generation well, and has passed over, and rests in the Home where there will be no more sorrow, no tears, and where the inhabitant shall never say, I am sick. God's blessings on the husband, and son over in France.

Mrs. Williams, daughter of Samuel Grant and Kate Kuykendall Grant, was born in Matagorda Co. forty years ago, and spent nearly all of her life in this county. She, like her mother, was converted in early life, and made her religion a principle, and practiced before her family, as well as all others. Her husband, in speaking of her, said "she certainly was a true Christian," and this is the testimony of those who knew her best. Surely there can be no higher or stronger witness to one's piety and consecration, than those in our own homes; and when husband and children bear testimony to our worthiness, and devotion, we can count on its being true.

Just reaching your womanhood's estate, she was united in marriage to T. J. Williams, with whom she lived more than twenty years. Eleven children blessed their union, all of them, with their father, are left to mourn the loss of their mother. Two of her noble boys are in France and the news of mother's death, will be much heavier on them, for no goodbye did they get, and no comfort from nearness of brother, sister, or other loved one. She was ready for her summons, and went up to receive her crown that was waiting. May the sorrowing loved ones find comfort in Him who is "all and in all."

It was an unusual and solemn scene, when the funeral cortege wended its way from the late residence of Mrs. Douglas to the Methodist Church where impressive services were held in the presence of a large company of relatives and friends of these Side by Side, the caskets were placed in front of the chancel, amid sweet floral offerings from worthy women, loving friends, and in the hush of that quiet and solemn place, Rev. O. T. Hotchkiss, assisted by Rev. G. T. Storey, conducted the funeral services, and spoke words of comfort to the sorrowing ones and friends gathered there.

At the conclusion of the services at the church, the remains were placed in the two auto-hearses, and followed by a long line of other cars filled with sorrowing friends, moved out to Cedarvale Cemetery, and in graves side by side, were laid to rest to wait the glad Resurrection Day. Mother and daughter, who have lived so much for each other and who had been more than mother and child, who had been companions and confidents, and associates, rest together in death, and lived together in "The Home Over There." The News joins the many friends of the family in extending heartfelt sympathy to the sorrowing loved ones of both families, and we pray heavens blessing on the children who have lost their best friend, a mother dear.

Newspaper, date unknown

Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

W. L. Douglas

Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

MRS. MABEL E. WILLIAMS

Mrs. Mabel E. Williams, wife of Mr. T. J. Williams, died of pneumonia at her home yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock and was buried with her mother, Mrs. Kate Douglas, this afternoon. Mrs. Douglas died yesterday morning at 2:30 and her daughter yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Last week another daughter of Mrs. Douglas died at Blessing.

Mrs. Williams was forty years of age and besides her husband leaves several children, with whom the entire community sympathizes.

Double funeral services were held at the Methodist Church for these two splendid Christian women and mother and daughter were laid to rest side by side in Cedarvale this afternoon.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 1, 1918

Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

CARD OF THANKS

While words are inadequate to express our sincere gratitude to the friends who so kindly administered to the wants and comforts of our loved ones during their sickness, and so thoughtedly and kindly attended to every detail in arranging for their interment after death, and for the words of comfort to us in this most trying and distressing time of our lives, for the beautiful flowers contributed, and we wish to hereby tender our heartfelt thanks, and assure them, one and all, that these kindnesses, administrations and tokens will ever be a source of gratitude and comfort to us, will ever be remembered and cherished, and our prayers will be that our Heavenly Father may ever be near to bless and comfort them.

W. L. Douglas, T. J. Williams

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918

Ella Nicholson
Born Oct 9, 1884 - Died Oct. 22, 1918
She died as she lived
Trusting in God.
Ashby Cemetery
 

ASHWOOD

Mrs. Ollie Newman of Houston arrived in the city Wednesday for a visit with her mother, Mrs. C. L. Smith and family and to be at the bedside of her little son, George, who has influenza.

The influenza is almost past in this district as no new cases have developed within the last week.

The Ashwood school reopened again Monday after being closed for a period of two weeks on account of influenza.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 1, 1918
 

ASHWOOD

Mrs. Hurst is ill this week with influenza.

Mrs. B. Goodrum, who has been seriously ill, is very much improved. We trust that she will soon be enjoying health again.

Mrs. George Walker has been quite ill, but we are glad to report that she's on the road to recovery.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918
 

MARKHAM ITEMS

There are at present very few cases of "flue" in town, and we think Markham will soon be normal again.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918
 

MRS. MINNIE LAURA HARPER.

Mrs. Minnie Laura Harper, wife of V. T. Harper, died Thursday, October 31, and was buried in Cedarvale Cemetery this afternoon from her home in Markham.

The cause of the death of this excellent woman was pneumonia. Besides her husband she leaves several children.

Mrs. Harper was 36 years, 8 months and 20 days of age at her death. She was a consecrated Christian woman, a devoted wife and mother, loved by all who knew her and regarded in the highest possible esteem by all of her neighbors.

The Tribune joins the many friends of Mr. Harper, who share his sorrows and loss with him and his motherless children.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918
 

[W] HARRY GAINER.

Mr. Harry Gainer of Clemville died yesterday morning at 5 o'clock with pneumonia, and will be buried tomorrow in the Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, the funeral being from the Wm. Walker undertaking parlors.

Mr. Gainer was 55 years of age at the time of his death.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918
 

MRS. WILHELMINA ZIPPRIAN

Matagorda, Texas, November 20.--Mrs. Wilhelmina Zipprian, wife of Mr. Christian Zipprian, died at their home at Big Hill, November 4, 1918, after several weeks of illness, beginning with influenza after which she developed inflammatory rheumatism.

Mrs. Zipprian was born in Germany and came here with her parents when very small.

She was Miss Wilhelmina Franz and the youngest of four children; was married to Mr. Zipprian many years ago, of which union there are five children and at her death was 80 years old. Hers has been a long and useful life of love and usefulness and those she leaves behind would do well to emulate the life of their good mother whom they will miss so sadly.

Those surviving her besides her widower are Messrs. Jim, John, Ed, and George Zipprian and Mrs. Paul Billingsly.

The remains were brought to Matagorda Methodist Church where relatives and friends congregated to pay the last sad rites of respect.

Rev. T. S. Williford read the funeral services, after which the casket was taken to the Matagorda Cemetery and the body laid to rest in a bed of flowers.

The Spirit hath returned to God who gave it and with the vigor of immortality her feet now tread the streets of the glory world.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 15, 1918

[Note: born 26 Oct 1838 - died 5 Nov 1918]
 

MARKHAM NEWS LETTER.

Mr. Albert Johnson and entire family have had influenza the past week.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 15, 1918
 

GUSSIE SMITH.

Matagorda, Texas, November 20--Gussie Smith, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Will Burke, died of pneumonia at the family residence October 22, 1918, at the age of 34 years.

The subject of this sketch was born at Caney, Matagorda County, and lived there until quite a large boy when he came here with his mother and step-father and was still with them at his death.

He was a young man of exemplary habits and was liked by every one. His especial delight was to be nice to children and consequently they were all fond of him and will miss him greatly. His going has left a vacancy in the home and hearts of his loved ones, that can never be filled and their many friends sympathize with them in their bereavement.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. O. T. Hotchkiss of Bay City. Friends lined the grave beautifully and many floral offerings adorned the new-made mound. These were also contributed by sympathizing friends.

Those surviving him besides his parents are one brother and four sisters, namely: Roland Smith, Mesdames Ed. Zipprian and Arthur Gottschalk and Misses Alice and Myra Burke.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 22?, 1918
 

Photos courtesy of Gale French

CHALMERS NEWS.

Mrs. Harville has been very sick this week with influenza, but is reported some better at this writing.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 22?, 1918
 

DOROTHY MAY SCHIVEBEL [Schwebel]

Matagorda, Texas, November 20--Dorothy May, aged two years, six months and ten days, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Schivebel, died at the family home here the latter part of October after an illness of seventeen days of pneumonia. The funeral services began at the residence and were concluded at the cemetery.

The grief-stricken parents have the deep sympathy of the entire community in having to give up their dear little child, yet what a comfort it is to know that "of such is the kingdom of heaven."

May they derive surcease from their sorrow "from Him who doeth all things well."

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 22?, 1918
 

WILLIAM CORDIE MORRIS.

William Cordie Morris, an energetic farmer, died at his home 2 1/2 miles east of Bay City yesterday at noon of spinal meningitis following an attack of influenza, and was buried in the Bay City Cemetery this afternoon.

Mr. Morris lived on one of the N. M. Vogelsang farms and made a good crop of cotton and corn this year.

He leaves a wife and children, was a member of the W. O. W. and a man well esteemed by all who knew him.

The Tribune extends its sympathies to the bereaved family.

November 26, 1918
 

OBITUARIES

Matagorda, Texas, November 22--The following are obituaries of O. R. Moberley and little daughter, Kathryn:

The whole community was shocked when it became known that Oscar Rucks Moberley was dead Saturday evening, November 2, 1918. He had only been ill a few days from that dread malady, Spanish influenza, from which he developed pneumonia, which struck him so ruthlessly, his body could not stand its ravages and in one short week his form lay cold in death and oh, the pity of it for he left a heart-broken widow and four children, two of them being ill at the time and Mrs. Moberley just sitting up.

He was buried from their, but one week ago, happy home, Rev. T. S. Williford reading a few words and offering a brief prayer at the home after which the Masons of Bay City and Matagorda took charge and bore him to the cemetery where he was laid away amid beautiful floral offerings. A large procession of relatives and friends followed in the funeral cortege.

Mr. Moberley was a devoted husband and a loving father, nothing ever being too good for this family if they expressed a wish for it and then too, he had hosts of warm true friends and many acquaintances who will miss him for a long time. He was half owner of the City Garage and Machine Shop, the business being known as that of Moberley Bros., and in that capacity came in contact with many people.

He was born in the town of Talladega, Talladega County, Ala., July 7, 1882, and came to Texas with his father and two brothers in 1898, his mother having died when he was quite small. He had been in Matagorda nearly ever since and fifteen years ago was married to Miss Lyda Baxter of this place of which union there were five children viz: Bessie, Kathryn, Jim, Eileen and Oscar.

Besides them two brothers survive him, J. D. Moberley of Selma, Ala., and Elbert Moberley of this place.

The heart of Matagorda mourn with the bereaved ones.

And yet the death angel seemed not satisfied and hovered over the saddened home a whole week, to the day, then plucked one of its fair flowers November 9, darling little Kathryn of 8 summers, who had been desperately ill with pneumonia from the day of her father's burial.

All that could, had been done, by skillful physicians and nurses but her recovery could not be and her pure spirit took its flight and left in that once so happy home a double sorrow, that seems just now, more than the bereft can bear.

Kathryn Jewel Moberley was born May 27, 1910, and from infancy, in her winsome, happy, affectionate way would herself around the heart strings of all who knew her and was a neighborhood pet. This writer among the others has enjoyed many a happy little visit with her. She has always been a most faithful little Sunday school pupil and always had a bunch of other children with her, and the same when attending school, so there are many times and places where she will be missed, oh so sadly, for a long time to come.

It is heart-breaking to hear her little bosom playmate sob every time her name is mentioned, since her "going away."

Perhaps she would rather we would not grieve for she if now "safe in the arms of Jesus" and singing songs of Zion with the millions of children around the throne of God, more beautifully than she sang them here in Sunday School.

"Suffer little children and forbid them not to come unto Me, for such is the Kingdom of Heaven" and the blessed words of the Master.

The little white casket was taken to the Methodist Church where the pall bearers, Penn Gove, Cecil Inglehart, W. D. Serrill and Cyrus Smith, took charge and after a few appropriate remarks and comforting prayer by Rev. T. S. Williford the hearse wended its way to the cemetery, followed by relatives and friends and that semblance of Kathryn s the hymn, "Jesus Lover of My Soul" was sweetly sung, was laid to rest by her father and little brother, Jim who died three years ago.

Following the first "Abide With Me" was sung, beautiful November flowers and evergreen prepared by loving and sympathizing friends, were in the grave and banked above it profusely.

With sad hearts the mourners turned away when all was over feeling that though great is their bereavement that some sweet day by and by, they will be reunited with their dear ones in the Glory World.

May our Heavenly Father's grace be sufficient for them in these dark hours.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 29, 1918

Photos courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

MRS. ANNIE [AMIE] V. MANN

Mrs. Annie V. Mann, wife of Mr. S. C. Mann, died at her home in this city Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock and was buried in Cedarvale Cemetery yesterday at 2:30 p.m.

Besides her husband, she leaves one child, a son. She was a little past 27 years of age. Death was due to pneumonia, following influenza.

Mrs. Mann was Annie V. Ryman, daughter of Phillip and Matilda Ryman. She was born on the Ryman home stead four miles south of Bay City and reared in this county. Her mother and father survive her as do four sisters and one brother, Mrs. Flossie Kelly, Misses Elsie, Lettie and Maggie and Floyd.

Decedent was a consistent member of the Methodist Church and was loved by all who knew her.

The Tribune joins the many friends of the family in its expression of its heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement.

Daily Tribune, January 20, 1919

MRS. AMIE MANN
 

Mrs. Amie Mann, who died at her home in this city Saturday, January 18, at 2:30 o'clock was laid to rest in Cedarvale Cemetery Sunday, January 19, at 2:20 p.m.

Mrs. Mann had been seriously ill for several days; she was taken with Spanish influenza which soon developed into double pneumonia and proved fatal.

Mrs. Mann was loved by all who knew her, and she leaves many friends and relatives to mourn her loss. It is so hard to know what she suffered and to know she was so patient and good through all her illness. Not once did she complain.

Her sister, Elsie Ryman, stayed by her bedside throughout her illness and carefully nursed her. She was also attended by a nurse from Houston. All that hands could do was done to relieve her suffering but to no avail. Doctors and nurses could not save her--the angels came to claim their own, for she was indeed an angel.

Decedent was a consistent Christian, a member of the Methodist Church, always so patient and kind, a devoted wife, a patient and loving mother, a true sister and daughter, her life was one daily prayer, and during her illness when she was so weak she could hardly talk she would ask her sister to say her prayers for her. On the morning before she died she said she wanted to offer up a prayer and she did. Just before she died she said, I am going to heaven; Oh, I am going to heaven, and we will sing there beautiful songs.

Oh, it is so hard, indeed, to know she is gone. A love one is gone, but can we not console ourselves in Jesus, when we remember He said, we cannot bring her back but we can go to her. We know where to find her--our loss is heaven's gain.

This is hard indeed, so hard that we must bow our heads in sorrow while "His will be done."

She has departed from this world and gone to a brighter one, left behind her a remembrance of a pure, sweet Christian life an example for our lives.
 

Daily Tribune, January 31, 1919

MRS. ADDIE ADAMS

Mrs. Addie Adams, wife of Mr. G. B. Adams, died at the home of her parents, Mrs. and Mrs. H. B. Hogan, Tuesday morning at 7:30 and was buried in Cedarvale Cemetery this afternoon at 3 o'clock.

Decedent was 37 years, 6 months and 10 days of age at the time of her death and besides her husband leaves a father and mother, brothers and sisters and four children.

Mrs. Adams had been seriously ill for several days prior to her death and every comfort possible was administered to her but to no avail.

The Tribune joins the many friends of this splendid family in the deepest sympathy for them in their bereavement.

[died 14 Jan 1919]
 

Gladys Adams
September 21, 1905 - January 18, 1919
Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas
Section 2, Block 77

Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

MACK LANDRUM

After an illness prolonged from the 26th day of last December when he was stricken with influenza in Louisiana, Mack Landrum, son-in-law of County Clerk and Mrs. J. T. Bond, died at their home at 11:20 a.m. on the 5th of March, and was buried in Cedarvale Cemetery the day following, leaving a wife and three small boys.

Mack was born in Williamson County 29 years ago and was reared there. On February 26, 1911, he was united in marriage with Miss Lela Bond, the oldest daughter of County Clerk and Mrs. J. T.  Bond. To this issue was born three children, all boys.

On December 26, while at work in Louisiana, Mack was stricken with influenza and was brought home. Later on the illness turned into galloping consumption which gradually encroached upon his system in spite of former good health and powerful physique, wearing him down and bringing his life to a close in its very prime.

Decedent was well known to everyone in Bay City. He was big, big-hearted and jovial and had a host of friends. He was a member of the I. O. O. F. of Bay City, whose members were faithful, loving and loyal every day and night during the entire illness.

To Mrs. Landrum and her fatherless boys and to Mr. and Mrs. Bond the sympathy of the entire community is extended.

The Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 5, 1919

 CARD OF THANKS

We take this method of extending our heartfelt thanks to our noble friends who assisted us so much in our recent bereavement, and especially the members of the I. O. O. F., who never missed a day or hour in giving us of their time and devotion. May God, in His infinite wisdom, bless each and everyone of you.

Mrs. Mack Landrum, J. T. and Mrs. Bond

The Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 5, 1919

Photo courtesy of Gale French

RESOLUTIONS OF RESPECT TO THE MEMORY OF BROTHER MACK LANDRUM, DECEASED.

To the Noble Grand Officers and Brethren of Bay Cit y Lodge No. 81, I. O. O. F.

Your committee on resolutions of respect to the memory of Brother Mack Landrum, deceased, beg to submit the following:

The subject of these resolutions departed this life at his home in Bay City, Texas, after a most patient lingering illness, on Wednesday, March 5, 1919, at the age of 28 years, 11 months and 7 days. Besides the wife and the three little boys who are left to mourn his loss, midst a host of sympathizing friends, there survive him a number of immediate kin, these being: Tom Landrum, Vaiera, Texas; Mrs. Ann Franklin, Nugent, Texas; Jim Landrum, Dallas, Texas; Mrs. Sallie Fine, Colorado, Texas; Ammie Landrum, McCullum, Texas; Jess Landrum and Mrs. Ruth Adams, Matagorda, Texas; Mrs. Leah Sewell and Mrs. Emma Ellis, Kempner, Texas; and his father, H. Landrum, Lometa, Texas.

Soon after reaching manhood's estate, Mack cast his lot with the Odd Fellow's Fraternity, and as a machinist and skilled mechanic by trade so exemplified the teachings of the order in his private life, that he won the good will, friendship and respect of those who knew him, and made those of us who knew him in the more intimate Fraternal Circle glad to do him honor and call him brother.

NOW WHEREAS, it has pleased Him, who looks out upon the works of humankind with the "All Seeing Eye" and appraises each of us with unerring measure, to call our brother from this vale of tears to the work of that lodge above, and made with hands eternal in the heavens.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That in the death of Brother Landrum, this lodge has lost a loyal, true and faithful brother and member, the State a good citizen, and his wife and family a devoted husband and father.

That in his memory the charter of this lodge be draped in mourning and that the brethren wear the usual badge of mourning for a period of ten days.

That a page of the minutes of this lodge be set apart and these resolutions be inscribed thereon; that a copy be furnished the press for publication, and that a copy be furnished his disconsolate widow.

Fraternally submitted,

Thos. H. Lewis, Theo Dienst, C. G. Hamill

The Daily Tribune, Friday, March 14, 1919                    Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins
 

AMBROSE DARBY.

Mr. Ambrose Darby, for many years a citizen of Bay City, died suddenly last night at his home just as he was preparing to retire, death being due to heart trouble brought on by a late attack of influenza. The funeral will be held tomorrow under the auspices of the W. O. W., of which he was a member.

Decedent was 51 years, 2 months and 13 days of age at his death, and leaves a wife and several children.

Mr. Darby was born in Weimar, Texas, on the 28th day of December 1867, and was married at that place. He engaged in railroading and was in the employ of railroad companies for14 years. He and his family moved to Bay City eight years ago. Besides his wife he leaves six daughters and one son. These are Mesdames Ford Penny, Pat Wylie, Perry Chapman; Misses Myrtle, Iris, Ethel and son, Will.

The funeral will be held from the home tomorrow afternoon.

The Tribune joins the many friends of the family in the sincerest of sympathy.

The Daily Tribune, Tuesday, March 11, 1919

Emma Dora Darby

Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby
 

MRS. SAMUEL SCOTT RICHARDSON
 

Mrs. Samuel Scott Richardson was born in Prairie Lea September 22, 1894, and died at her home in Bay City at an early hour Sunday, March 23, after an illness of only four days of pneumonia.

Mrs. Richardson is known here as Miss Leah Johnson, being a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George C. Johnson, of this place. Her life was spent here until some six years ago when she, with her parents, moved to Bay City. She was married there five years ago and besides her husband leaves two small sons and a sister, Miss Willie Johnson, of Bay City, a father, mother, three sisters and a brother here and two brothers in the U. S. navy.

Leah was a devoted Christian woman, uniting with the Baptist Church here in her girlhood and later becoming a member of the Methodist Church at Bay City with her husband. She was always bright and cheerful, making and retaining her friends. From every one was heard expressions of regret and sympathy Sunday when the sad news reached here. The entire community extends sympathy to her family, also to her aged grandmothers, Mesdames M. Johnson of Fentress and S. A. Johnson here.

Prairie Lea Cor., Luling Signal.                    Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins

MRS.  SAM S. RICHARDSON

One of the saddest deaths every chronicled in the history of Bay City and one which produced universal sorrow was that of Mrs. Ella Leah Richardson, who died at the Bay City Hospital Saturday night at 1:20 o'clock after a very brief illness as a result from a relapse of the influenza.

She leaves a husband, broken in grief and sorrow and two small children. The funeral services were held in the Methodist Church this afternoon, after which interment took place in Cedarvale Cemetery.

Decedent was born at Prairie Lea, Caldwell County, on September 22, 1894, the eldest child of George C. and Salura Johnson, both members of one of the oldest and most highly respected families of that part of Texas. Several years ago the family moved to Bay City, where deceased met Sam S. Richardson, to whom she was married on Christmas day, 1914. At her death, Mrs. Richardson was 24 years, 6 months and 1 day of age. She was a member of the Methodist Church, devoted to her religion, her husband and children. With the younger people of Bay City she was very popular and universally loved. Her quiet, pleasing disposition wherever she went or with whomsoever she mingled, and her going has proven to be one of the saddest blows Bay City has sustained.

To add to the burden of sorrow our people have watched Sam and Leah in their struggles and gloried with them in their happiness. They had just acquired a new home on Avenue "G" and were preparing their little nest with light hearts and buoyant hopes of the future. They had only been in this place, just a few days when illness and death removed the sweet little wife and mother.

Under circumstances like these, which occur so often, it seems hollow and senseless to extend sympathy and condolence, for we cannot explain, and yet that is all that is left those who loved Leah to give to her heartbroken and loving husband. We can only share Sam's sorrows with him, nothing more. We can only give him encouragement, for we cannot replace that which God has taken from him. His broken heart we cannot heal, but we can throw around him our saddened love and give to him a liberal portion of it.

The Daily Tribune, March 24, 1919

CARD OF THANKS

It is our wish to express with all possible sincerity our earnest appreciation of the noble and unselfish acts of kindness shown us during the illness and at the death of our loved one. We fell deeply a sense of gratitude which words cannot express and know that no place in the world has a more generous, true Christian for a more sympathetic citizenship than Bay City.

May God bless you, all of you, whose noble deeds and acts of kindness have endeared you to us forevermore.

Mr. and Mrs. G. C. Johnson
Sam Richardson

The Daily Tribune, March 29, 1919                       See also Dr Gordon Eugene Richardson Family
 

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