Washington Township

Washington Township

I appreciate very deeply indeed this opportunity to send you a few words of greeting and commendation for the World War History of Starke County, Indiana, which you are compiling. While we have nistories recording the achievements of the entire nation, it is to these works devoted to more limited fields that we must look to preserve to posterity the many fine acts of individual heroism and sacrifice. I am pleased to note that you have undertaken to record the part played by the soldiers of Starke County in the brilliant successes of our army in this conflict.

Foreword

The Starke County History of the World War, 1917- 1918, is hereby set forth for the purpose of giving our home folks a tangible and intimate record of our own activities in the greatest and most severe of all wars and to give Starke County a permanent place in the Historical Archives of our glorious state.

It has been the earnest desire of all the committees to compile an accurate, thorough, and impartial history, covering the most important economic conditions surrounding our World War activities, as well as the military factors. Any omission or error is purely accidental. We have striven through every available means to secure all the data, material and statistics bearing upon this period of the County's History, and we offer with pride and patriotism this volume.

We want to thank everyone, especially the commissioners, for the cooperation which made this volume possible and we hope our efforts meet with your unlimited approval and that the Starke County World War History will not only be a valuable addition to your home but to the loyal generations to come.

Sylva Reiss Jonas Index Of Illustrations

Page Frontispiece - Starke County Court House Starke County Commissioners, -1923-1924 «1......2...:60-. 5 Editing Board of the World Wat "History. ts Aerc te 6

The Gold Star Mothers

INTRODUCTION (a) Economic Survey of Starke County Herbert R. Koffel (b) Pre-War Patriotic Survey Claude S. Steele COUNTY COUNCIL OF DEFENSE The Editor THE Boys WHO PASSED ON THE GOLD STAR MOTHERS HOME VOLUNTEER WORKERS The Editor (a) The Attorneys (b) The Editors of the County Papers (c) The Knox Band (d) Women in War Work (e) Women Registration....Mrs. Mahlon Hartzler (f) Camp Fire Girls Hazel Hatch Steele (g) Home Guard...............-.+ Henry F. Schricker ARMY AND NAvy RECORDS The Editor TOWNSHIP RECORDS (a) North Bend Twp... Warren S. Terry (b) Wayne Twp. (N. Judson) Dr. G. B. Corbitt (c) Railroad Twp. (San Pierre ) Otto Dolezal (d) Oregon Twp. (Grovertown) Mrs. Eudora Reinhardt (e) Washington Twp. (Ober)........-: ee Mrs. A. C. Bolen (No. Rep.) Patifornia oe Mrs. Cora Conklin (No R.) Davis Twp. (Hamlet) Mrs. H. W. Childs Jackson Twp Francis Palmer (No Rep.) Center Twp Editorial Board

Patriotic And Loyalty Demonstrations Humorous Stories Of The World War

WAR SAVINGS STAMPS .................._E. H. Taylor THE RED Cross ..... Hazel Hatch Steele (a) Organization Hazel Hatch Steele (b) Fiest-Ditiwe coi... . Hazel Hatch Steele (c) Christmas Red Cross Drive - 1917 Norma 'Taylor (d) Second Red Cross Drive - 1918 Norma 'Taylor (e) Red Cross Work Rooms... Hazel Hatch Steele . WAR RELIEF Work........Charles Hamilton Peters FooD ADMINISTRATION .................F. E. Whitson FUEL ADMINISTRATION The Editor PATRIOTIC AND LOYALTY DEMONSTRATIONS (a) Editorial John L. Moorman (b) Celebrations H. FP. Schricker Boys WORKING RESERVE..................1. L. Totten AGRICULTURAL WAR WoRK............. I. L. Totten STARKE COUNTY SCHOOLS IN THE WoRLD WAR Lanai Ase Watts eae gee ee SS Pf J. Allen Barr POINTS OF REFERENCE The Editor LETTERS FROM OuR SOLDIERS HUMOROUS STORIES OF THE WORLD WAR

Introduction

Starke County is located two counties from the West line and one county from the North line of Indiana, the Northwest part of the County fronting on the Kankakee River, being organized as a County in 1850 and is therefore one of the youngest and perhaps smallest in area in the State.

Before the land in Starke County was re-claimed by an extension system of large open ditches it consisted largely of sand hills and marshes. The opportunity for settlement for that reason was not very desirable and the population of the County increased very slowly. The population now consists of some 12,000 people, the native population largely coming from Pennsylvania, Ohio and Illinois. We have a considerable foreign population, consisting of natives of Germany, Poland, Bohemia and sprinklings of Russians and Italians.

The social life of the people is very similar to that of other rural communities in Indiana. The church creeds represented are Methodist, Catholic, Christian, Lutheran, United Brethren and some few other minor church organizations.

The moral standing of the people of the County is very good and the general standard of citizenship has improved very materially within the last ten years.

The economic resources of the County are almost entirely agricultural, and this is limited by a lack of fertility in much of our soil. No manufacturing enterprises of any importance are conducted within the county.

"The sinking of three more American ships by German submarines and the probable loss of fifteen American lives only adds to the feeling between America and Germany that will surely lead to open warfare."'

This editorial was written at a time when the hearts of Starke County citizens were full of hope and fear; hope that the great clouds might pass and that our nation might keep in its historic path of peace; that Europe might settle its own controversies: yet in almost every heart was the fear that Europe's troubles were fast becoming ours and that the great questions which were facing our friends across the seas were becoming world wide and that America must soon assume her full share of preserving and defending the hopes and aspirations of mankind.

Here and there upon the streets and on the farms, men and women left their work to gather and have their say. It seemed to be the prayer of all that America might be spared. 'Yet how," they asked, ''can we shirk our duty?" All seemed to realize that the obligation of America was becoming more and more evident each day. Excited groups gathered about the first morning papers as they were distributed about the streets. 'Then came the news that the United States had definitely decided to enter the war. Starke County's response to this declaration is best depicted by the following editorial from the same pen:

"The die is cast. America and Germany are at war. The war is not of our making but it is here. There may be some who honestly doubt our right to enter this war: but all such must keep their doubts to themselves or banish them entirely. It is no crime to have German blood in ones veins, but it is treason to have German sentiments in ones heart. America is right and no man will be tolerated who acts otherwise. The best we have, have gone forth to do and die if need be, to uphold the hands of our President and none left behind may falter in their Americanism. 'There is no petty politics back of this war. The most powerful nation on earth is sucking our national life. It is the most sacred duty of all to stand firm and true, in word, deed and thought for America and constituted authority."'

That the citizens of Starke County liked this editorial almost to a man is now history. Their response was spontaneous and immediate. They pledged their lives and their dollars without stint. Meetings were held in every civic center in the County, the one question being constantly asked, "What

Events came thick and fast. In every newspaper in the county appeared an appeal to the farmers to raise more grain, and more food stuffs. This appeal was headed - ''Men who fight must eat,'' and was signed by all the banks in the County and occupied a prominent place on each front page. In the same Knox papers appeared an account of a flag pole being raised in the Main Street just across from the Fitz Hotel. Private O. D. Hepner formerly of Co. "H'' was the moving spirit. Dr. S. I. Brown presided and strong patriotic addresses were made by Rev. Ivey of the M. E. Church, Rev. Gray of the Christian Church, and Rev. Hubbard of the Free Methodist Church. Knox was aflutter with flags. A fifteen foot flag purchased by proper subscription was run up to the top of the pole as the band played '""The Star Spangle Banner." 'The flag was raised by a squad of gray haired Civil war veterans.

At the same time Capt. E. D. Turner of Company "H" was busy securing recruits for the Indiana National Guard. Harold Green, William Chapman, Russell Stradly, Glen Hardy

Typical of those stirring times, this local is taken from the Starke County Democrat: ''Robert Fletcher has left for Ft. Wayne to join the aviation corps." Another item: 'Both Starke County Trust & Savings Bank and Farmers State Bank are assisting farmers by ordering car loads of seed potatoes and selling them in long time easy terms. J. E. Osborn, our local seedman, is overseeing this arrangement. William Peele and Editor Schricker had charge of the meeting where this was planned."

That North Judson was busy is indicated by the following account of a flag raising taken from the North Judson News, Chester A. McCormick, Editor: ''A monster flag 29x40 feet, the largest flag in Indiana, was raised in North Judson Saturday, April 28th, 1917. A long parade formed at Burch's hall and marched to the spot chosen to raise the flag. The huge flag was borne by the school boys holding to its edges as they proudly marched along; after them a double file of school girls dressed in white, then decorated autos and floats. H. FE. Schricker made the principal address. <A splendid patriotic program was given at night. Music was furnished by the Knox Band. The members of Company ''H'"' were present and did their bit. Ralph N. Smith of LaPorte made the principal address in the evening.

That everyone seemed to want to help in some way is indicated by the following letter which appeared about this time in the Knox papers: ''A letter to the People,'' President Wilson has asked the people of the United States to sell goods at a small profit and to help our customers and others I have concluded to comply with his request. - P. VanDerweele."'

On May 3rd appeared the following headlines in the Starke County Republican: ''Conscription Law Passed - - Nation will raise army of 500,000 by selection draft - Troops to Europe by end of year is planned."'

Then follows - ''The Nation was fully awakened from its dream of peace Saturday, when the news was flashed from Washington that Congress had passed the Conscription Law as called for by President Wilson."

In The World War 17

That the people of Starke County were fully awake to the situation is evidenced by the following editorial by Henry F. Schricker of the Starke County Democrat on May 2nd, 1917: "Tt is as much of a man's patriotic duty to pay his taxes as to help to defend his country in time of war. Yet how much money do you suppose would be paid into the County Treasurer's office each year if the business of tax paying was put under the volunteer system? A few, yes a very few, but the great majority would be dead willing 'To let George do it'. And so it is with the plan of raising an army by the volunteer system. The Nation's maxim: 'Equal rights to all special rights to none' leaves no room for the volunteer plan. Abraham Lincoln in urging a conscription law: "You who do not like to be soldiers do not like this law,' and these words doubtless apply today."

It may be said here in all truth that there was very little, if any, draft dodging in Starke County. The boys, as called, presented themselves for examination. There were many bitter disappointments as some were rejected for service. Many left for hospitals for minor operations which might fit them for service, and enable them to get into the war. Many whose cases were such as to entirely bar them from shouldering a gun, enlisted for clerical work and thus, did their bit.

By this time things were becoming lively in Starke County. All over the county schools, churches, lodges, clubs, in fact all civic bodies and organizations were getting on their toes. What War means was being more and more realized. Business houses, especially the banks, were getting under way for the liberty loans. Those who thought America so large that even war could not stir her to the depths were beginning to change their minds. Those who were doing nothing were beginning to arouse suspicion or were casting about for some place to put their shoulders to the wheel. More and more the truth was coming home to us in Starke County that every man and every woman as well as every boy and girl were to have their full share of conflagration whose flames were leaping higher every day. Lives were being poured out as never before, the lists of wounded and dead were mounting at a rate which made former wars tame indeed. All this was brought home to us and spurred us on and on until all were working.

The churches were doing their full share. Every pulpit in the county teemed with patriotism and the voices of our ministers and priests lashed their congregation to greater efforts and sought to instill in the public mind this great truth; that America and her institutions were at stake. Even Christianity was menaced by the war lords of Germany and her allies. Sunday, July Ist, 1917, was set aside as a Patriotic Sabbath, and on that day the good people of our County found their way to the church of their choice and there consecrated themselves to the new duty and listened to their religious leaders as they sought to point out the path of honor and glory which in the end lead to victory and peace.

Lon E. Bernethy County Council Of Defense

For the purpose of cooperating with other organizations of a similar character in other states and with our Federal Government, the Indiana State Council of Defense was organized May 19th, 1917 by Governor J. P. Goodrich, who at the request of the Council of National Defense appointed twentyseven representative citizens to undertake organization throughout Indiana. At the head he appointed W. H. Hays, later destined to be a leading political figure.

Judge W. C. Pentecost of the Circuit Court appointed the members of the Starke County Council of Defense June 16th, 1917. Each local council is composed of seven members, one

LON E. BERNETHY, of North Judson. WILBUR W. DYE, of Hamlet. WESLEY W. OSBORN, of Ober. THOMAS CLEAVE, of Bass Lake. Miss AGNES LARAMORE, of Knox. HERBERT R. KOFFEL, of Knox.

Extensive plans were adopted by the County Council of Defense for the suppression of disloyalty in any form, for the encouragement and promotion of all necessary war work and this work was carried out to a successful conclusion with but little trouble and with no particular antagonistic influence. The chief functions and activities of the County Council of Defense was to encourage, support and aid in promoting the work of the local board, financing the war, the Red Cross, all war relief, agricultural war work, food and fuel work administration, etc. In this respect the council was very successful, accomplishing its purpose in almost every instance. In all there was $1,150.00 appropriated for use of the County Council of Defense, about $200.00 of which was expended for various purposes the balance reverting to the treasury.

Various and vague reports came to the knowledge of the County Council of Defense, that certain citizens of the county were accused and suspected with disloyal acts and utterances. The matter was discussed at a meeting of the County Council and a majority of the members expressed themselves as being in favor of calling a meeting at the court house in Knox, the county seat of Starke County, and notifying the various per-

H. R. KOFFEL Member of Board of County Commissioners Who Resigned Because of Ill Health sons thus criticised to be present. This meeting was held on the 25th day of September, 1917, and all the parties who were SO requested to report were present and answered all questions that were put to them by the chairman, the meeting being open to the public. At the close of the meeting the Council entered into an executive session and after thoroughly discussing the various issues involved, decided that the men so called were to be exonerated, and that the charges so vaguely made were unfounded and unjustified. A resolution was then adopted that before the County Council would pay any attention to reports or rumors questioning the loyalty of our citizens, the same would have to be made in writing and filed with the chairman, and that the accused party would be put in possession of all the facts. This resolution no doubt accomplished a great deal of

Several patriotic meetings were held the latter part of October, 1917, under the auspices of the Starke County Council of Defense. The first one was held Friday evening, October 19th, at the Knox Opera House; the second,. Monday evening, October 22nd, at the Majestic Theatre at Hamlet; the third at Arndt's Hall, San Pierre, October 23rd.

Early in 1918 Henry F. Schricker, one of the members of the County Council of Defense, tendered his resignation and J. W. Long was appointed as his successor. Later in 1918 Lon E. Bernethy resigned' as chairman of the County Council of Defense, because of his removal from the county, and H. R. Koffel was appointed chairman as his successor.

April 3rd, 1918, California Township held an organization meeting at wihch the following officers were chosen: Emery A. Turner, chairman; Samuel J. Taylor, vice-chairman: Miss Olive Weidner, secretary, and Peter Mosher, treasurer. Assignments of other members to special war activities were as follows: J. V. McVey on espionage; Thos. O. Mays on military affairs; John G. Marks on agricultural pursuits; Lewis Raschka on public speaking, and Miss Olive Weidner on women's work.

Harry Keller

Son of Ezekiel and Caroline M. Keller, born April 14, 1891, North Judson, Starke County, Ind. Employe of Tin Plate Mili, Indiana Harbor, Ind. . Enlisted in U. S. Regular

In The World War 25

Army June 27, 1917, Chicago, Ill. Sent to Camp Jackson, Ss. C., assigned to 17th Engineers. Overseas in July, 1917. Gassed during drive in the Marne Sector. Returned to U. S. as casualty January 23rd, 1917; taken to Cook County Hospital, Chicago, where he died July 28th, 1918. Buried with military honors, North Judson, Indiana. The American Legion Post at North Judson bears his name.

John Earl Good

Son of Jeremiah and Martha Good (both deceased); born March 16, 1896, Knox, Ind. Employe of Rubber Boot Factory, Mishawaka, Ind., when the entered service October 5, 1917. Sent to Camp Taylor, Ky. Transferred to Camp Jackson, S. C.; assigned to Company A, 327th Machine Gun Battalion. Sailed overseas May 11, 1918. Participated in battles of Bellecourt and Premont. Gassed Oct. 24th, 1918, and died. Body returned to the U. S. and buried at Knox with military honors.

Charles Emigh

service July 23, 1918, Knox, Ind. Sent to Camp Wadsworth, S. C.; assigned to 321st Ambulance Company, Sanitary Train. Contracted pneumonia and died Nov. 29th, 1918. Buried in Bass Lake cemetery with military honors.

Frank Clifford Garbison

Son of Joseph (deceased) and Emma Garbison (Fite) ; born. April 8, 1896, Davis Township, Starke County, Ind. Farmer. Entered service June 24, 1918, Laporte, Ind. Sent to Camp Sherman, Ohio. Transferred to Camp Mills, N. Y. Overseas September 3, 1918: assigned to Company F. 335th Infantry, 84th Division. Contracted pneumonia; moved to Base hospital No. 3 in France where he died October 14th, 1918. Buried in American cemetery, Menezterol Motignac, Dordogne, France.

Columbus H. Shilling

Son of Hiram and Alice Prettyman Shilling; born September 28, 1893, near Knox, Ind. Farmer-salesman. Enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps, August 7, 1918, Chicago,

Ill. Sent to Paris Island, S. C.; assigned to Company Z 33rd transferred to Quantico, Va.; assigned to 13th Company, 10th Regiment, where he manned a seven-inch gun. Contracted influenza and died October 24th, 1918. His body was returned to Knox, Ind., where he received full military honors and was buried in the Round Lake cemetery. Columbus Shilling was a decedent of Lord Delaware of England.

Albert W. Williams

Son of Walter F. (deceased) and Aldawa Williams; born August 24, 1886, North Bend Township, Starke County, Ind. Machinist. Enlisted in U. S. Regular Army May 12, 1917. Detroit, Mich., where he was employed. Sent to Camp Jacinto, Tex.; assigned to Company C, 26th Infantry. Overseas in June, 1917; attached to First Division. Wounded March 25th, 1918, while fighting in the Toule Sector and died two days later. Buried in American cemetery, No. 108, Grave 15, Sebastopol Barracks, France. 'The American Legion Post, Knox, Ind., named in his honor.

Joseph Regnold

1895, Englewood, Ill. Moved to Starke County, Ind., in 1904. Enlisted in U. S. Regular Army May 8, 1917, Indiana Harbor. Sent to Ft. Thomas, Ky.; transferred to Syracuse, N. Y. Overseas April 2, 1918: attached to Third Division. Fought at St. Mihiel, Montfaucon, and in Meuse-Argonne. After his brilliant heroism in the battle of Hill 204 in the Marne division, June, 1918, he was promoted to Sergeant. He lost his life October 9th, in the battle of Meuse-Argonne, at Madaline. farm. The regiment in which he was fighting was decorated as a whole by the French Government with Croix du Guerre.

Walter J. Wallace

Son of Montgomery J. and Jennie Wallace, born at Peck, Sanilac County, Michigan, July 26th, 1890. In early boyhood moved to a farm near Hamlet in Starke County, Indiana. He enlisted as a Y. M. C. A. Secretary for foreign service and on June 15th, 1918, departed for France. At this time came the second crisis of the Marne. Through shortage of men in at Hill 204 was so badly gassed that he never quite recovered. During the drive at St. Mihiel all of the Y. M. C. A. equipment was destroyed by a German shell so Walter decided to enter the contest as a real fighting man. For extreme bravery at Deadman's Hill Walter was decorated with the Croix de Guerre. He received a painful flesh wound and was invalided to Paris and finally home. He died in a tuberculosis sanitarium at Val Mora, New Mexico, March 18th, 1921. His body was brought back to Knox where it was buried with full military

Home Volunteer Workers

WAR! The very word brings visions of sacrifice, hardships, suffering, cruelty, blood-shed - death. And to what avail? Because the mighty overpowers the weak does not necessarily make right prevail. Animosity and revenge cannot produce friendship and reciprosity; peace founded upon military supremacy cannot endure. So our great adversaries in the World War discovered, for Germany with all her powerful military organization could not maintain the peace she won in 1871.

War has as many phases as a prism has angles. It is not only the man in the fighting lines who makes the army of victory. "The man behind the plow, the man behind the desk in the offices, and the man behind the great machines in our factories deserve equal credit. One without the other is lost. He is not a "'slacker'' who was not permitted to go gloriously "over the top'' in the front line trenches; he is not a "'slacker"' who untiringly labored month after month at whatsoever the government asked him to do - giving his time, sacrificing his own affairs and donating hundreds of dollars that our fighting soldiers might return victorious heroes.

In July, 1914, the Arch Duke of Austria and his consort were foully assassinated by a half-crazed Serbian youth. Immediately Austria and Serbia locked forces in a warfare that developed into the most fiendish, the most inhuman war ever reckoned in history. Science, heretofore considered noble and exceedingly helpful to the progress of humanity, lent itself to the invention of the vilest means of destruction. Poisonous gases were shot over the royal Princess Pat Regiment of the English army in France by the Germans which mowed down these unsuspecting boys like wheat before a harvester. Those

In The World War 35

When the allied armies saw this outrage they immediately provided the soldiers with gas masks an equipment never before used in any war. It was a mask for the face only which protected the wearer from the deadly effect of the gas. When the front lines recognized an approaching gas attack, a signal was given to the entire division and the masks were placed in position immediately.

Guns were manufactured that could shoot a range of seventy-five miles, called by the entente '"The Big Bertha." In this war aeroplanes, zeppelins, submarines first made their important appearance. "The power of our great men of war was as naught compared to that of those fast running treacherous submarines. Aeroplanes made camouflaged trench 'warfare necessary and with it the vermin such as notorious cooties. The term "'No Man's Land"' was a phrase of horror to everyone. . Years of preparation gave Germany the advantage at the beginning but they did not reckon with the spirits of the allied armies; a spirit of patriotism, of dogged determination and love of home; the spirit of men not beaten into military discipline by an iron-fisted military machine, whole-hearted men of every nationality and religion banded together in one supreme purpose of halting this outrageous barbarism and stopping the huns in their sacriligious slaughter.

April 6th, 1917, Woodrow Wilson, at that time President of our United States, declared a state of warfare between the United States and Germany. Immediately America began preparation to send the American Expedition forces (A. E. F.) to the aid of the allies who had been in the conflict already two years.

Sergeant Alex Arch, Battery C. 6th Field Artillery, was the first American to fire shot into the German line. November 3rd our first troops entered the war on foreign soil.

In The World War 37

Already our boys were leaving for the camps to begin rigid training for the battling line. Service flags with their plue stars on white backgrounds, each star representing one boy in service, surrounded with a border of red hung in nearly every window. 'The stars soon began to change from blue to silver designating that one boy was wounded, and then, alas, the gold stars appeared for those who "went west.' Starke County's heart followed the boys as they entrained for camp.

Thanksgiving, 1917, nearly a hundred boxes of food were sent to the camps for our boys. 'The contents were various, such as brown bread, jelly, sandwiches, chicken,, pickles, cake, cookies, friut and homemade candies.

Ralph Kline donated a bushel of apples. Forty-nine boxes were sent to Camp Taylor; twenty-one boxes were sent to Camp Shelby, Hattiesburg, Miss.; twenty-one boxes were sent to several other camps.

When the Library War Service issued a call for books for the camps in March, 1918, Starke County set aside March 23rd from 8 to 12:30 A. M. for books to be left at the Knox High School. Women of Knox took their cars and canvassed the town for books. Conséquently Starke County sent a goodly share to the camps. "There were thirty-seven free libraries throughout the camps.

Much confusion was avoided by the gallant assistance of the Starke County lawyers in helping the boys with their questionaires, a complicated paper each boy was compelled to file. December 12th, 1917, the County papers printed this notice:

"The Attorneys of Starke County will render such aid and assistance as may be necessary under the service act to every registrant, such services to be free."

The most important battles of this World War were the Argonne, Chateau Thierry, St. Mihiel, Bellau Woods, Cantigny, Soissons, Vesle, Verdun and Yprez. Indiana furnished one hundred, six thousand, five hundred and one men for the atmy, making us tenth among the states for the number of troops furnished from the U. S. A. Sixty-nine thousand, seven hundred, forty-nine went with the National Army. Twenty-five thousand, eight hundred forty-seven enlisted. Eight thousand, three hundred thirteen went to the Navy, and one thousand, sixty-four went to the Marines.

Starke County is proud of a number of officers she possessed. "There may be more of whom we have no record. A short space will be left following this list so that any omission may be filled in by the owner of this history if so desired.

The boys in the Marines were Joseph Arnsdorff, Jacob Beyers, Raymond Cox, Ed. Haley, Columbus H. Shilling, Robert Fletcher and Donald Reinhardt.

Many of our younger boys eager to get into the fight enlisted in the Students' Army Training Corps (S. A. T. C.), where they underwent strict military discipline.

One group of men, small but powerful, deserve honorable mention in. this History - the editors of our three Starke County papers to whom, also the editing board of this History are deeply grateful. Chester A. McCormick, Editor of the North Judson News; Henry F. Schricker, Editor of the Starke County Democrat, and John L. Moorman, Editor of the

In The World War 39

Starke County Republican. They not only gave their time writing editorials and attending all the meetings through the county that they might authentically cover them but their papers were free mediums of patriotic inspiration and information during the entire period of the war. Forgetful of politics, nationally or religious difference, they printed everything of interest to the people of our county. They did their bit faithfully and Starke County appreciated it.

As early as 1776 when the drum and fife stirred the blood of our colonial ancestors with the fire of patriotism, music has been the inspirational means of touching the hearts of humanity. Some are more susceptible than others to its power but one thing is certain; music can arouse and when the Knox band marched down the street playing one of its lively patriotic airs, the blood in the veins of those who listened tingled and they burned with patriotism. Even now when we hear "Over There'' strange little quivers run up and down the spine.

They never failed. At every meeting, campaign or celebration they unselfishly donated their services and played with all their fiery enthusiasm. They went all over the county in all kinds of weather and Starke County owes a debt of gratitude to the Knox Band Boys they cannot easily repay. 'The following men played in the band at the time:

J. M. Swartzell, A. W. Swartzell, C. A. Baldwin, Frank A. Green, O. D. Hepner, Harry Loring, Harold Loring, Grant Green, Bruce Wilhelm, Roy Savery, Clarence Savery, Russell E. Thompson, C. D. Newby, Virgil McCormick, Robert Edgell, Lewis Morlan, Leslie Miller, Charlie Lundin and Harry Menser.

Besides giving their time and energy to knitting and sewing and campaigning for war funds the women of Starke County made a noble showing in military service. Marie Fletcher was the first to leave the county for war work. She enlisted in the clerical department at Washington and took up a position with Col. Deitrich. Ada and Harriet Geddes followed in 1918. They also went to Washington. In July, 1918, Miss Alice Baldwin, Miss Sylvia McGill and Miss Zelma Jordan answered the government's call.

The woman's section for the State Council of Defense and the Red Cross undertook to recruit 1500 student nurses in Indiana for government service. The drive extended over the period between July 28th and August 11th. Four recruiting stations for the convenience of Starke County's young women were opened at the following places:

From North Judson's recruiting station Esther Atherton, Ida Henning, Helen Dolexal, Florence Akers and Edith Short enlisted. From Knox, Ruth Gronquist and Emma Marks.

In October, 1918, six North Judson girls and one San Pierre girl left for Camp Sherman, namely: Miss Lydia Koukalik, Miss Florence Akers. Miss Esther Atherton, Miss Setepta Fruits, Miss Louis Hudson and Edith Short, of North Judson, and Helen Dolezal. of San Pierre.

In The World War 41

The registration of women for war work of Starke County, Indiana, was taken during March and April, 1918. Mrs. Mahlon J. Hartzler was appointed County Chairman, and appointed the following Township Chairmen:

About eighteen hundred women of the county registered showing their willingness to assist in clerical, domestic, agricultural, industrial, professional, public and social service, Red Cross and allied relief. After the close of the registration a detailed report was made and sent to the State Chairman, Mrs. Anne Studebaker Carlisle, at Indianapolis.

32 Cooking 'actory - Cont'd. | '85 Dentist, 103 Publicity vu _Soctal Service Instruction - Cont'd. Bicone, 61. Sgcios 86 Dieticlan | 104 Statistician i st ai Industries by home | 62 Paperand printing | 87 Draftaman | 105 Surgeon lemploy't | 63 Wood trades 88 Engineer | 106 Teacher Garee eee 3 Taundrese | 68 Tentiles Handicrafts: dults....-..0-. | 132 ci executive villian 37 Practical nurse } 65 Forewoman | 89 Metals 133 District nursing 38 Trained attendant | 66 Inspector 90 Textiles 134 Hos IX, Miscellaneous 39 Seamstress | 62 Janitrese (cleaner) | Woods Tadberto } 13s todvartal wears : - 40 Waitress + 68 Laundry operative ournalist Oar Sonal mgr | 136 Investigator 2 Contributions IV. Industrial | 69 Mapager 33 Leborstory 'gr: vaker | Mall carrier 137 Playgrounds SO Baker | 70 Manicureand bairdr Polles patrol 138 Proteetive awoc'a | B B ver for car Roar essenger | reational uplicating mach EB (Bie | seca RES | Ree" |b Cook Retall déaler | eee | 440. Music E. Home for c onvalew: $3 Camp Restaurant RES PERE ; eary 141 Reading aloud spit $4 Ipeitutional | aleaw } 118 Telephone | 142 Rellel visting F 55 Dressmaker 70 W 96 Lecturet ] Transportation: | 143} Settlement: G Laboratory Factary 97 Librarian Neleuin S| 144 Soctabeubs H_ Motor beat Needle trades | re & Musics 20 Horse | Vi. Red rose nnd Ag Relit otc 7 Food trades | 81 Architect iy Motor car | Tos J Leather trades =| 82 Arust armact | Motor cyde 150 Sareea dreesings Sba rae ws Hat trages | 83 Author 101 Photographer 3 Power boat 1st ietetica veldow of ehildres Metal trades | 84 Chemist 102 Physician ie Railroad 182 'Biessentary bys.

Camp Fire Girls

The Kankakee Camp of Camp Fire Girls at Knox made generous donations to the Red Cross War Funds, and helped as much as possible for busy high school girls in other war work. Miss Agnes Laramore was their guardian. These Camp Fire Girls were: Ruth Johnson, Florence and Thelma Newtson, Lucile and Lenore Pentecost, Gladys Kesler, Kathryn Thompson, Mildred Budlove, Mildred Horner, Gertrude Foster, Dora Stevens, Dorothy Kellogg, Kletha Kreuter, Martha Tuesburg, Clara Thomas and Eulalie Shook.

The Home Guard

The government's appeal for the organization of Home Guard companies throughout the country met a-hearty response in Starke County, and a special meeting for this purpose was held in the Farmers' Room of the court house on the evening of September 27, 1917. This meeting was well attended and after some discussion it was unanimously decided to foster the organization of Home Guard Companies throughout the county.

On November 24, 1917, the first company was organized at Knox and more than seventy men were enrolled. Orville W. Nichols, Thomas J. Hurley and Henry F. Schricker were appointed a committee on rules and regulations, and at a subsequent meeting, on December 5th, the following officers were chosen: Henry F. Schricker, Captain; Orville W. Nichols, First Lieut., and Virgil H. McCormick, Second Lieut. Regular meetings and drills were held until the close of the war and enthusiastic support was given to all war activities.

The North Judson Company of Home Guards was organized at Burch's Hall on Friday night, December 7, 1917, and a large membership was enrolled. The following officers were chosen: Charles Heruska, Captain; Harry Watts, First Lieut.; Orin S. Schuyler, Second Lieut.; Chester A. McCormick, Secretary; John F. Lightcap, Treasurer, and William H. Replogle, Patriotic Advisor.

In The World War 43

On December 27th the Aldine Company held a rousing meeting at the Gleaner Hall and organized by electing the following officers: James Forbes, Captain; Emery Turner, First Lieut., and John Hanson, Second Lieut. "The Company started off with a membership of sixty-five, and Captain Forbes appointed the following non-commissioned officers: Cecil Weidner, First Sergeant; Clyde Mosher, Charles Zahrn, Charles Reeg, Curtis Kelley, Martin Swanson, Homer Collins, Cressel Lucas and Otis F., German Corporals; Elmer Gridley, Patriotic Advisor.

The Hamlet company was organized on Wednesday night, December 26th, and the following officers were elected: Raymond E. Hardesty, Captain; L. N. Laramore, First Lieut., and Ellsworth Childs, Second Lieutenant.

All of these companies did effective home work during the war and through their organized efforts aided materially in moulding a spirit of patriotism and loyalty that was felt in every home and fireside in the county.

Army And Navy Records

The army conscription bill which makes every able-bodied man of military age subject to the government's call to defend the colors, passed both houses of congress at Indianapolis, April 28th, 1917, and Indiana the great Hoosier State, through the prompt action of Governor Goodrich, again took the lead in meeting the nation's plans under the new act. 'There were four district boards, one hundred twenty-four local boards, one hundred two medical advisory boards in the State. There were three drafts. The County boards were selected by Governor Goodrich late that night and in each instance the board consisted of three men: the County Sheriff, the County Clerk, and one other citizen selected by the Governor. The Board in Starke County was composed of Sheriff Clement L. Rodgers, Clerk Hugh Kruter, and Sidney A. Uncapher, of Knox. No-+ tice of these appointments were sent out from the Governor's office by wire. This was the first gathering of conscription officers in the nation and another important thing about this was the unanimous decision that the members of our boards and also the precinct registrars should serve without pay. May Ist, the county conscription officers met in their respective localities everywhere in Indiana to select the precinct officials and make their report to the Governor. the Starke County board met in the Clerk's Office at the court house and compiled this list of well known and patriotic men:

Military Service Record

Prepared by the Indiana Historical Commission as a permanent memorial to the Indiana soldiers and sailors enrolled in the American and Allied fighting forces during the World War.

In The World War 47

The new conscription bill provided for the draft of men between the ages of 21 and 40. This was a House Bill; the Senate Bill fixed the age limit from 21 to 27. The bill passed fixing the requirement between the ages of 21 and 30 and June 5th was the day set for registration.

Following is the official list of boys as compiled by the County Draft Board with as many as we could possibly determine who enlisted away from home:

Additional Remarks

North Bend Township, No. 1........... At the Kaiserhoff Hotel North Bend Township, No. 2.......... At the Ora School House Washington Township, No. 1. At the Ober School House Washington Township, No. 2... At Cottonwood School House Oregon Township, No. 1....At the Grovertown School House Oregon Township, No. 2 At Dr. John R. Abner's Office California Township, No. 1.... ...... At Center School House California Township, No. 2..... At Maple Grave School House Center Township, No. 1....... At Harry E. Johnson's Residence Center Township, No. 2 ..A\t basement of Christian Church Center Township, No. 3........... At Johnson's Insurance Office

In The World War 59

Wayne Township, No. 1... At the Town Hall at North Judson Railroad Township, No. 2........... At San Pierre School House Davis Townshipy9)- iad. s-st Entire Township at Town Hall Jackson Township... Entire Township at Jordan School House Following is the first Official Conscription Notice:

Conscription Notice

Notice is hereby given to all male persons residing or sojourning in Starke County, Indiana, over the age of 21 years and who have not yet attained the age of 31 years, to repair to their regular voting precincts on TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 1917, between the hours of 7 a. m. and 9 p. m. of said day and there register their names in accordance with the proclamation of the President of the United States of America.

Washington Twp. Prec., No. 1........ At the Ober School House Washington Twp. Prec., No. 2..At Cottonwood School House Oregon Twp. Prec., No. 1....At the Grovertown School House Oregon Twp. Prec., No. 2........ At Dr. John R. Abner's Office California Twp. Prec., No. 1...........-. At Center School House California Twp. Prec., No. 2....At Maple Grave School House Center Twp. Prec., No. 1......At Harry E. Johnson's Residence Center Twp. Prec., No. 2......At basement of Christian Church

Center Twp. Prec., No. 3.......... At Johnson's Insurance Office Wayne Pwpi No. Bet cere. At Town Hall.at North Judson Wayne Twp. ANG 42-2. Sade tite At Sonnerberg's Building

IN WITNESS WHEREOEF, I, C. L. Rodgers, Sheriff of Starke County, Indiana, have hereunto set my hand at Knox, Indiana, this 25th day of May, 1917,

In August, 1917, the Knox Draft Board consisted of Sheriff C. L. Rodgers, Herbert R. Koffel and Dr. John R. Abner, who decided upon August 8th, 9th and 10th as the days when Starke County's drafted men should appear in this city for physical examination. The Board decided that its first call should include the first 198 men taken in order in which their numbers were drawn in the draft.

WARD He FARRAR Si Bile a: Walkerton HARRY LOGY ee ee Culver GEORGE E. KECK North Judson LOUIS .KRieiR eel ee ee North Judson ROBERT > Pita ieerey cnt ketee Pes eee . Hamlet CARL TIN BROWH sec ace eer ene Hamlet MELVIN O. FERCH

Forrest J. Melvin

BENJAMIN F. BODAMER..................Donaldson JOHN PAWLISH....... edie. Cah We Cer San Pierre SAMUEL" LW EAPEVERG ei a Aoi a Hamlet LAWRENCE H. ABRAHAM North Judson FORREST J. MELVIN

NOW IN MILITARY SERVICE WILLIAM M. ATHERTON North Judson CORA -Cy EMERICK 2.521028 heed, ea Pee Hamlet GEORGE L. D. JENSEN 6 ene eae OM For the sake of interest we have attempted to find out from as many boys as possible the time at which they enlisted and the destination to which they were sent. This compilation is entirely unofficial, but we considered it decidedly interesting and therefore are printing it: ATTY. PATRICK MALONEY - San Pierre, Officers' Reserve Camp, Ft. Benjamin Harrison, May, 1917. RALPH GooD - Knox, Officers' Reserve Camp, Ft. Benjamin Harrison, May, 1917. CLYDE - TTANNER - Aldine, U. S. Cavalry, Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, May, 1917. ADOLPH DUKES - Knox, Great Lakes Naval Station, Harvard Radio and Wireless School, May 8th, 1918.