York County, Nebraska - Chapter 18: The Medical Profession, 1921 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 18: The Medical Profession

The modern generation, who can step to the telephone, call the doctor, await a few anxious moments while the physician's automohile speedily brings him to the bedside of the sick person, is very apt to overlook the prime importance of the country doctor of some forty years ago. Then it was a long wait, a period of intense suspense, while the doctor, sitting half awake in a buggy, with the faithful horse steering the course would be slowly ambling toward his destination. To make a good fraction of as many calls, visits and examinations as the modern jDhysician can dispense with in a regular day's work, his predecessor of a generation ago had to put in many more tedious, tiresome hours. Words cannot begin to record the credit due to the earlier doctors of York County or any other community. The least we can do at this time is to compile a memorial roster of these faithful servants of the public health.

The Pioneer Physician

The historian of south York County mentioned in an article published last week the valuable services rendered early settlers by Dr. Deweese, who proved a good friend to many sick and suffering ones. The northern portion of the county was also fortunate in having a pioneer physician in the person of Dr. S. V. Moore, whose home has been in York for a number of years. Though his days of strenuous effort are long since ended and failing health keeps him by his fireside during the winter days, he has a very keen memory of the time when cold and storms had no terrors for him and he willingly braved the worst blizzard to respond to a call for help. Doctor Moore came to York County in 1869. He took a homestead north of the present site of Bradshaw and built his sod house on a hill about a half mile from Lincoln Creek. He had both studied and practiced medicine in his former home in Illinois, but had not expected to continue to follow the profession in Nebraska. But the need of his neighbors was so great and their wish for the medical treatment he alone could give so urgent, that he gradually yielded to their deiiiiuuls and soon foiiiul himself practicing medicine over the most of York County and parts of Polk and Hamilton. If a call to a sick bed came in plowing time the plow must be left in the furrow till the sick were visited, and if a winter storm was brewing the wife and children must Ije left to care for themselves and the stock as best they could until the father-doctor could reach home again.

There were few contagious diseases to contend with, though the children of the plains succeeded in catching measles and kindred ailments as do those of the towns. Di])litheria was a dreaded visitor sometimes and pneumonia was grejitly feared. Doctor Moore remembers being called to the bedside of a young woman who was very sick with this disease. A storm was raging, and lighted lanterns were hung outside the door of the house to guide the doctor. As he entered the little room where the woman lay he found her bed surrounded by weeping friends who believed her to be dying. The doctor left the door wide open and someone in the room suggested that it be closed. "No, leave it open,'" commanded the doctor as he made his way toward the sick woman. When she had recovered the power of speech the patient told the doctor that she heard his command and blessed him for it, for she was perishing for lack of oxygen and the air in the little room was rendered the more impure by the number of people who were crowded in. All of these friends save the liusbaud and a woman to serve as a nurse were banished by the physician, and since it was too cold to send them to their homes, he told them to make themselves as comfortable as possible in a sod annex to the house. To those who insisted that the patient was dying he said "She is not dead yet," and she did not die. She, too, is living in York today.

On one occasion the doctor was gone from his home for three days and nights, being prevented from returning by a blizzard. As he was nearing home on the evening of the third day he was stopped by a settler whose wife was sick and who besought him to tarry with them. Though Doctor Moore had not been able to send word to or hear from his family during his absence, he yielded to the settler's prayer and watched with the sick woman till nearly morning.

A little mule carried him many a mile through heat and cold and never failed to find the way home over trackless fields of grass or snow. Sometimes when homeward bound Billy would lower his head and sniff the trail like a dog. Nell, a beautiful mare of high degree had her part, too, in carrying relief to the suffering. Sometimes the way (there were no roads in those days) led through the water-filled basins and across streams and more than once it was necessary for the rider to lift his feet and saddle bags to the horse's back to escape a wetting while fording the waters. The travel in winter of course called for the most endurance and frequently led to exposure to the elements sufficient to endanger life. The pioneer physician was not supplied with fur coats or robes and was often chilled through and felt the pangs resulting from frosted hands and'feet. Once a woman in a household where he had a patient iu.sisted on preparing the doctor for the homeward trip by wrapping his legs in old quilts tied with strings. Before he reached shelter he was most grateful for the kindly solicitude, for without the extra wrappings he knew he might have frozen.

Once when the physician was watching by the child of a neighbor which had been attacked by membranous croup, he was summoned home to find that his little son was similarly afflicted and his wife had been fighting the disease with all the remedies at her command.

The question of medicine was an important one to the doctor of the early '70s. Drugs must he procured from Lincoln or Milford and then compounded by the doctor himself. A good supply of medicine must be carried on every trip, for often one call was the only one the doctor could make, and at the best medicine must be left for several days with directions for use or change as the patient's condition might demand.

Often the doctor was called to a home consisting of a one-room sodhouse with only a strip of carpet for a door and heated liy a cook stove in which cornstalks were used as fuel, it recpiiring the constant labors of one person to replenish the fire. The patient in such a home had usually nothing in the way of comforts. Yet Doctor Moore recalls that by far the greater majority of his patients recovered in spite of adverse conditions. There were a few cases of tuberculosis imder his care in those early days, but he held out no hope of recovery to tlie patients or their friends while doing all in his power to alleviate their distress and make their last days easier.

In many cases the only compensation Doctor Moore received was that of the deep gratitude of his patients. There was little to pay with then, and it was not unwillingness but lack of means which left him unrewarded. Some men payed their debts in farm labor, and their services were greatly needed at times by one who left his own things so frequently to care for the things of others. When the grasshoppers took the settlers' crops they also took the hopes of the doctor for ready money which had been promised him liy those who lost their all. But of these things he never complained, and, indeed, it is necessary to question him closely concerning this part of his experience. Sometimes the doctor traveled twenty-five or thirty miles to see a patient and sometimes a trip of sixty or more miles would be necessary in order to make two or three visits. Charging at present professional rates for visits calling for such an expenditure of time and strength would have given Doctor Moore a good start on the road to wealth, if the charges could have been paid.

This story of heroism might be indefinitely prolonged, for hundreds of thrilling incidents doubtless crowd, the history of that fourteen years. "Hero" is a very appropriate name for a man who lived the life of a pioneer doctor, but after all it does not express much. For the name is often bestowed for one act of supreme self-risk, while the doctor practices self-sacrifice year in and year out with no great crisis, save the ordinary crisis of life, to nerve him to endeavor.

The Medical Roster

The roster of doctors who have registered in York County, in compliance with the requirements of the state laws, gives the most complete list of medical men of Y'ork County. This list, kept in the county clerk's office, of course contains names of numerous doctors who were located in other counties, but whose practice called them into Y^'ork County frequently enough that they deemed it advisable to register here. Doctor T. L. Myers practiced at York as early as 1871 and Dr. A. J. Allen was the first at Bradshaw, in 1872.

The list, beginning with the registrations in 1881, shows the first name to be that of George W. Shidler. Doctor Shidler, a native of Pennsylvania, trained in the Ann Arbor, Michigan, I^niversity medical department and the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Keokuk, Iowa, practiced in Iowa some three years and came to York County in February, 1878. In August, 1881, he went to Red Cloud, where he practiced for a short time, and then returned to York County, where he completed a long, useful career before his call to the final reward. His son, George P. Shidler, is one of the leading doctors of York of the present generation.

Further registrations in 1881 brought forth the names of Samuel Wert of Waco, who came to the county from Stromsburg ; Austin E. Allen, William Joel Wells of Waco, in recent years in Lincoln, Neb. ; Levi Pool of York; L. P. Ensign, at Arborville; Willis C. Sperry, Henry Van Gorden, William Henry Babcock, at Bradshaw; Sarah Parker, J. J. Porter, Mrs. Francis A. Martin; and this year's registration brought forth four names which stand out in York County medical services for long careers of faithful professional service and activities in social, political and general affairs of the community - Drs. E. Carscadden, William H. Martin, D. E. Sedgwick, and W. M. Knapp.

Doctor Carscadden, homeopathic physician and surgeon, was bom in Canada, February 1, 1840, where he received his literary education and attended Albert College for some time. He came to the United States in 1863 and entered the University of Michigan medical department. In Chicago he studied for over a year in the office of Dr. B. Dexter ; he later pursued work in Rusli Medical College, grad- . uating in 1866, attended lectures in Hahnemann Medical College (homeopathic). Practicing for three years in the old school, he turned in 1869 to the homeopathic practice. In 1879 he left his practice in De Pere, Brown County, Wisconsin, on account of failing health, and came out to the invigorating atmosphere of York County. In the earlier years of his practice here he was the only physician of his school in the county. He was married at Wheaton, 111., in 1871 to Miss Clara Sedgwick.

Dr. William M. Knapp was born in Steuben County, New York, January 20, 1847. After receiving his academic education lie entered the medical college at Detroit, Mich., and later entered the St. Louis Medical College, from which he graduated in the spring of 1872. He practiced one year at Macomb, 111., and settled in York in 1873. At tbe time of the opening of the registration records in 1881 he was the oldest resident physician of York and Hamilton counties. In 1880 his standing in the profession was recognized by election as vice president of the Central Nebraska Medical Association. He was chosen to represent Hamilton and York counties in the State Senate in 1877. In this same session Dr. S. V. Moore represented York County in the House of Representatives. He was an original member of the York Masonic Lodge and first master of that lodge, and was one of the organizing members of the G. A. E. post at York. He married in 1876 one of the York teachers. Miss E. A. Beecher.

Dr. William H. Martin came to Nebraska in 1868, first locating at Nebraska City, where he engaged in the practice of his profession. He came to York in 1875. He was the son of D. C. and Sarah Martin, who were of English descent; his mother's maiden name was White. He received his literary education at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, from which he graduated in the classical course in 1862. He then studied medicine in the offices of three of the leading physicians of the City of Delaware. In the wnter of 1862-63 he attended lectures at Michigan University, at Ann Arbor. In 1864 he commenced attending lectures in the Bellevue Medical College, New York City, graduating from the said college in the spring of 1865. His first practice was in the eastern part of Ohio, where he remained until his emigration to Nebraska. He is a member both of the State

Medical Society of Nebraska and of the Central Nebraska Medical Society. He was married in 1862 in Ohio, to Miss Georgiana A. Ladd, a native of Michigan.

Dr. W. H. Babeock came to Bradshaw in 1878. Dr. D. E. Sedgwick came from Brown County, Wisconsin, in 1880. His name appears through many chapters of this work with a frequency that illustrates the many interests in the welfare of the community he displayed, beyond his professional duties.

The registration for 1883 shows Dr. Joseph H. Downing at Waco, who came from Valparaiso in Saunders County; Frederick Saxenberger, from Shelby, Polk County, who practiced extensively in northern York County; Dr. A. C. Harlan, from Hillsboro, Henry County, Iowa, who became a prominent figure in York affairs; John N. Davis, at New York, who came from Iowa with some five years of experience in the practice; Allen M. Wheeler of Crete, who registered in the county in April, 1882; Elvira Jones of Stewart Township, who followed obstetrical work; Gustavo Ernest Kremer from Sterling, Neb., registered in March, 1883. Dr. Charlotte Catherine Naber of Waco, Dr. Leopold Frederick Saxenberger of Waco, and W. Godfrey Endres of Utica registered in the same month. April, 1883, brought another prominent figure in the medical roster of York County, Dr. D. E. Foristall, and at the same time Dr. C. M. Scott, now living in California, came to York. In August of that year Chester F. Harris of Red Lion Mills, York County, registered.

January, 1884, saw the registration of Dr. Orville M. Moore of Bradshaw, who is still living in York County, over thirty-five years later. In March R. G. Bloomfield registered, and July brought forth Dr. A. 0. Faulkner who practiced a number of years in York, but in recent years has become the head of an insurance company in Lincoln, and a very successful business man. The three registrations of 1885 brought forth two names, which stand forth in York County medical history - J. C. Panter and Benjamin F. Farley, and also George J. Puhek. In this year Robert McConaughey, the present pioneer physician and dean of the medical profession, came to York, and has served the people of the county for some thirty-five years.

Those registering in 1886 were: Jacob A. Bennett, Y'ork; A. R. Downing, Waco; Augustus H. Warren, Shenandoah, Iowa; Alvin E. Wessell, also from Iowa, and James E. Anderson of Indiana. In 1887 R. A. Blackburn registered at York, William K. Farley, for practice at Waco, and Frank S. Morris at McCool Junction. Almost thirty-five years of practice has made Doctor Morris a very important factor in the life of the southern part of York County. A. L. and Alex C. Sabin of Beatrice registered in this year. J. A. Van Dyke registered as from Bedient, Neb., and T. M. Gardner for practice at Waco. Robert McConaughey, who had been here since 1885, coming from Scottsdale and Mount Pleasant, Iowa. A. A. Ashby was practicing considerably around Waco, so he registered in this county.

In 1887 those who registered were A. Eisenbeiss of Lushton and B. L. Wanzer of York. In January, 1888, W. N. Hylton registered for practice at Poston, later called Gresham. He has been a prominent factor in the life of that community in a business as well as a professional way. The same year saw the registration of A. M. Pickett from Mitchell, Ind. ; C. A. Flippin at Henderson, who in years later practiced at Stromsburg and Grand Island, and Mrs. M. Belle Flippin, eclectic. Lewis M. Linvill started at Thayer and James L. Holbrook at Gresham. Henry M. Williams registered as in Blue Valley and J. B. Conaway located at York. Susanna Vodt registered as in Brown Township. In 1889 Walter F. Reynolds registered for work at Y'ork, P. Janss of Grand Island, and now of California, registered in the county; Flavins J. Greer for practice at Benedict, and a number of outside practitioners receiving considerable patronage from here - J. S. Leonhardt of Seward, George B. M. Free, A. J. Sanders, and H. S. Aley, doctors at Grand Island, and George H. Collins at Lincoln. Elizabeth Fast of Henderson completed the list for this year.

In 1S90 appears the name of Stephen Xewman, who had practiced for many years in Russia, and who came to Henderson. In 1891 were Oren B. Hugg and Samuel J. Canter, for York; Peter Goosen, practicing at Lushton and later at Henderson : F. L. Wiseman of Henderson, W. M. Earnest at Lushton. David Boswell of Thayer and Joseph G. Downey of York complete this year's list. In 1892 came Austin R. Allen, who practiced at Bradshaw; Frank L. Simon registered from Butler County; Robert S. Hirsch, who practiced at Gresham, and in 1893 William F. Wilson. From this point on those practitioners who stayed here had established fixed practices and the number of new arrivals each year is not so numerous. In 1895 the records show John W. Straight for Benedict, and who later moved to Hastings, and Frank C. ZoU of Merrick County.

The first dental registration appears in this year, when Dr. T. J. Hatfield, the dean of the dental profession in York County, registered, and at the same time George 0. Zeigler, who hiter went to Colorado.

In 1896 came Peter Wems of Bradshaw, who stayed for a short while. The registrants for 1897 were F. E. Gordon, and W. L. Downing of Harlan County, iSTeb., also registered here. The year 1898 witnessed a group of registrants: F. V. Johnson from Wahoo, William Kirk from Cass County, James G. Muir of Seward County. J. S. Sturtevant of Cass County, and Benjamin Rea of Dakota County, Iowa. In 1899 were J. W. Dill of Holt County and F. E. Calkins of York. On May 12, 1899, Homer R. Hatfield registered for dental practice, and started with his father; but he has ])racticed for many years past at Grand Island. Dr. H. Ij. Vradenberg, a homeopathic physician, and S. D. Towle of Saline County registered in 1899, also. In 1900 F. G. Snyder, Frank B. Slusser from Kearney County, Edwin Blair Ilanna from Fillmore County, Henry C. Williams of Johnson County, and Dora Bower Eckles and Warren F. Eckles registered. The latter have been constant practitioners at York since then, but Dora Bower Eckles is not now practicing. The year 1901 saw the arrival of 0. S. Townsend of Yoi;k, George L. A. Hamilton, who started in and stayed for a while; Dr. James X. Plumb, who came from Fillmore County, ami J. M. Kilgore, an osteopathic doctor. In 1902 those who registered were Dr. Lenore Kilgnre, who still lives in York County, but is not practicing; F. A. Thomas, an osteopathic physician of Hamilton County; Ora M. Caldwell of York, II. C. Mudding of Lincoln. Xeb. ; James F. Davies from Custer County, and Paul R. Howard, who came to York from Washington County, Nebraska.

In 1903 B. F. Stewart. Elmer G. Lawreni'e of Lincoln County, Frank M. Means of Y^ork County, A. B. Conaway, who never practiced here, registered. In 1901: James S. Romine registered for dental ])racticc, and Dr. William II. Dearing registered as a doctor to practice at Lushton. Edwin Miller, another dentist, came to

The New York

York, and in the same year came B. L. Diffenbacher, dentist, who later removed to California. J. H. Griffen of Douglas County registered for medical practice.

In 1905 two osteopaths, Drs. Willis E. and Amy Scott Lyman, registered; Dr. Frederick W. Karrer started at Benedict, Dr. Lucien Stark at Henderson. Walter L. Burnard, osteopathic physician, came this year from Hamilton County; also George H. Marvel of that county registered, and George A. Morrison, to practice at Bradshavv. Two dentists came to York in 1905 - Drs. Norman L. Kerr and Lorenzo P. Ronne - who have since left. This year's list closes with Dr. A. A. Potterhof of Douglas County and Freeman E. McConoughey, now of Utica. In 1906 the dentists who came were A. E. Calkins and C. A. Calkins and Drs. J. C. McKinley from Colfax County, and N. Sellberg. In 1907 the doctors arriving were: Charles C. Stevens from Adams County, Robert L. Newell from Cass County, Jolin T. Banning of Douglas County, William T. Putt of Adams County, and Artie Folsom of Gage County. These men; filed their certificates in this county, and Holland R. Wildman was the new dentist for this. year. In 1908 the registrations made showed : Ben W. Kinsey of Lancaster Couiity, Charles N. George of the same county, and Harry W. Nye from Pierce County. John W. Meehan registered in July, 1909; others registering in this year were W. M.- Blairfrom Lincoln County, and Amos F. Johnson from Colfax County. In 1910 "those .whose names appeared on the roster were: Dr. H. S. Breevort of York, F. E. Abbott of Lancaster, William C. Peterson of Madison, Squire Oliver Harris of York, John W. Wood of Lancaster County, and Hilmer Carl Schmidt of York, and in 1911 Charles W. Ford of Nance County, George E. Zimmerer of York, and Rachel A. Watkins of York appeared. In 1913 came Enoch Neff of Richardson County and Jesse Samuel Lancaster of York County, who stayed awhile and later went to California. M. L. Rich of Grand Island registered for practicing in this county in this year, and W. L. Foster from Nuckolls County came to Waco.

In 1913 the arrivals on the roster were G. G. Douglas of Cass County and Dr. Henrietta A. Latham of York; for osteopathic practice, William F. Race of Buffalo County. In 1911 the arrivals on the roster were: B. A. Stockdale of Douglas County, Gilbert D. Laffler, and P. L Stewart of Lancaster County, John E. Prest, who practiced in Lushton, Mildred C. Williams of York, and Dexter D. King of York, now a member of the firm of Moore, Shidler & King. In 1915 those who registered were: Lillian E. Coates of York, Bert 0. Callahan, chiropractic, Hubert 0. Bell and James Stewart Bell of York, David F. Hallett, York; Elsie M. Requartte and Donald McDonald, chiropractic, registered in 1916; as did Clarkson N. Olmstead, osteopathic physician; Emeral J. Culver of Adams County, Hayes H. Culbertson of York, and Earl Warner, osteopath.

"Doctor Benjamin F. Farley, a pioneer physician of York County, died at his home in this city Wednesday morning, January 17, 1917, of acute pneumonia. Doctor Farley was taken sick Tuesday, and so sudden and severe was the attack that he died almost before his family realized his condition.

"Doctor Farley came to York from Illinois in 18S5, and has been actively engaged in the practice of medicine here up to the day of his fatal illness. Two years

"Doctor Farley is survived hy his wife and three daughter?;. One dmighter. ilrs. Lloyd Lloyd, lives at North Platte; another, Mrs. Grant Karnes, lives in York, and another, Mrs. Rose Linch, also lives in this city. There are six grandchildren. Deceased was iu his seventy-third year. The Democrat goes to press too early to announce the funeral arrangements.

"In Doctor Farley's death York County loses a pioneer citizen who contribiited largely to the development of the community. He was a man of broad vision, kindly impulses and devoted to his profession."

In recent years Doctors Moore, Shidler and King have built up a splendid private hospital, called the York Clinic. Before this, York liad the Lutheran Hospital, an institution of which it is justly proud. The campaign for building a Lutheran hospital was started in 1913 by Rev. 0. Batz, pastor of the German Lutheran Church, and some of his members, and some of the local physicians took an active part in pushing the project. In November, 1915, the first building was dedicated. It was a building 54x96, two stories and basement, or practically three stories in height. The cost of that building, including site, furniture and fixtures was $1:8,000. In 1918 an annex and heating plant were erected at a cost of $85,000, this annex being 38x90, practically three stories, all fireproof, with every modern convenience to be found for such an institution.

Miss C. Rohling, registered nurse, was the first superintendent and .served for a year. Miss Martha Meyer, R. X., succeeded her and ,<erved until the end of the year 1919. Miss Rohling then returned and is still filling this position at the beginning of 1921. A nurses' training school, fully accredited by the state authorities, is conduced in connection with the hospital. The hospital has a capacity of sixty beds. In 1915, 193 patients were admitted and 144 operations performed. In 1916 this service increased to 456 patients and 357 operations. In 1917 the work spread so that 497 patients were cared for and 415 operations performed. The year 1918 saw a further extension of service to humanity, with 584 patients cared for and 323 operations that year. The work reached a high peak in 1919, with 689 patients and 510 operations, and held up very well in 1920, with 668 patients and 505 operations. The present officers of the board in charge of the institution are: President, C. Bulgrin; vice president, William Witte; secretary. Rev. 0. Batz, and treasurer, H. Ziegelbein.

The Law

Tlie law travels hand in haml with the first encroaches of civilization upon the wild, barren prairie. Of course in the first seven years of the settlement and existence of York County the machinery of the state courts had not reached this young community.

In most instances the touch of the citizens with the courts starts with the lower or local courts. This was true to even a greater extent in the earlier days of the community. The history of the State Supreme Court, the highest court in Nebraska, has been sketched in the state historical section of this work. The history of the district court has likewi.se been briefly touched upon therein, but the story of the District Court of York County will be treated in more detail in this chapter. Next below the District Court, coming down the ladder of justice, is the County, or oftentimes called the Probate. Court. This court has jurisdiction of all probate matters, the settlement of estates, handling of matters of guardian.ship, civil matters involving amounts up to $1,000, and concurrent justice of peace jurisdiction.

A picturesque corner-stone in the history of justice of any county is the Justice of Peace Court. In more modern times, since automobiles have rendered access to the county seat towns less difficult, in both time consumed for travel and ease in making the trip, the importance of this local court has dwindled, as the county and district courts have gradually absorbed its business. But in the horse-and-buggy period, a man with a grievance would file it with his local justice, for in those days the law permitting the selection of a justice of peace, or two, if chosen, for each township was more carefully carried out. The local magistrate perhaps carried his cases and trials with more informality, but no doubt with greater interest than the County Court trials of the present day generally present.

An illustrative word picture of the administration of local justice is furnished by the following article, published a few years ago, which was told of J. B. Meehan :

J. B. Meehan came to West Blue during the summer of 1871, and was the first squire in the precinct, W. H. Taylor being elected at the same time as constable. The first case in Squire Meehan's court was in the summer of 1871. At this time large herds of cattle were driven each summer from Texas north to various points, sometimes to Yankton, S. D., and again to points along the U. P. Railroad, where they were shipped east.

The drivers were of the usual Texas "cowboy" variety, wihl and reckless, and always expert in the use of their revolvers, an accomplishment they were always willing to demonstrate upon the least provocation. They drove their large herds fearlessly over prairie lands and the homesteaders' farms, paying but little attention to the growing crops. A large herd being thus driven over Peter Heller's field of sod corn, he brought suit against the foreman of the drivers, and Mr. Taylor was ordered to arrest him. The herd had passed north, and being uncertain as to the man's willingness to return peacefully, Mr. Taylor took with him several men of the neighborhood. They overtook the herdsmen near Beaver Creek. Setting his men to keep from sight in a ravine, Mr. Taylor rode on alone, making his errand known to the man, who, of course, swore and said he saw no corn, and at first firmly refused to go back ; but after talking the matter over with Mr. Taylor, he ordered the men to camp, and they started on the return trip. Presently he stooped, and drawing a revolver from his bootleg, proceeded to show his skill in the use of the same. Finding Mr. Taylor not easily frightened, he began to look for other game. Presently they came to A. J. Corey, chopping wood alone on his homestead. "Watch me scare that man," he said, and riding furiously up to Mr. Corey, he pointed the revolver in his face and prefacing his remarks with a volley of oaths, cried, "What do you want?" Mr. Corey looked at the man for a moment, and coolly told him he wanted nothing. Returning to Mr. Taylor, the man was then requested to turn over his weapon which he did willingly; then stooping once more, drew another weapon from his bootleg, remarking "Now we're both armed." Fearing danger if the man sliould have the weapon when they came to the other party, Mr. Taylor proceeded to argue the case with the man, who finally said: "We will ride up to where my wagons are; you throw your gun into the wagon first, and I will do likewise." This Mr. Taylor did, and the man was true to his promise.

Coming on, they rode through the ravine where Mr. Taylor's men were hidden, who remained quiet until Mr. Taylor and his man had passed, then they rode up behind them. This incensed the man from Texas, who seemed to think lie had been tricked. He stopped for a few moments, then remarked with the usual oath, "If I'd known this you never would have arrested me." But being unarmed and one against several, he evidently thought it best to show no fighting disposition at that time. Coming to Squire Meehan's, a crowd of interested farmers had gathered. This was to them an important case. All had suffered from the depredations of the herds, and now it would be decided how their fields should lie protected in the future. The man gave testimony that he was only an employee of the cattle company, and the case was dismissed, but it served the purpose, for coming herdsmen were more careful to avoid cultivated fields, and this ended what was, perhaps, the first litigation in West Blue Precinct.

Another one occurred in a few months, wherein a man living near the southeast line of the county was arrested for taking a saddle from Mr. Brower, who lived in Fillmore County. More than ordinary interest was taken in this case from the fact that George Post, a young attorney lately located at York, had been employed to defend the accused. Although the day was bleak and cold, many had assembled to hear the trial, and were surprised as well as disappointed when the lawyer informed the squire that the case was not in his jurisdiction, the property having been taken from Fillmore County. Tlie man was set free, and whether or not he took the saddle has never been determined.

Disteict Court

The first term of the District Court in York County was held at York in the spring of 1872. His honor Judge George B. Lake was the presiding Judge, and the trial docket No. 1 in the office of the clerk of the District Court at York shows the first session of this court opened on May 87, 1872. Newell H. Hopkins was bailiff. Lawyers then admitted to practice in York County who were in attendance were: D. T. Moore, George W. Post and T. L. Warrington. W. J. Connell of Omaha, even now, forty years later, an active practitioner at Omaha, was district attorney.

Two divorce cases were the first cases on the docket to disfigure the pure white records. Beginning at page 1 of the trial docket No. 1 were two divorce cases, divorces being granted May 29, 1872.

In the fall of that year court sat for half a day and transacted all the business then ready. The only case of importance at that time was an injunction suit, to restrain the county from issuing l)onds in the sum of $150,000 to the Midland Pacific Railroad Company. After hearing the case, his honor decided in favor of the plaintiflfs and made the injunction perpetual.

The first real contested trial in York County, in 1873, was not a white man's trial, nor a trial for divorce, but a trial among the original occupants of the country, the Pawnee Indians, who knew nothing of divorce, but understood that when a man and woman were legally contracted to marry, they should be man and wife. This trial as related by N. A. Dean was, in his own words, as follows:

"It was the winter of 1870 that the Pawnees' chief camped on the west side of the Blue River, section 9, township 9, range 1, west. In that tribe there was a young man who wanted to get him a wife. Their custom was that if a young man wanted a wife he must pay the price. This young man fell in love with a young girl that was also camped with these people. The contract for their marriage was to be made with the girl's father. The contract was made and the price paid, which was in ponies and furs. The marriage ceremony consisted of the contract with the father of the girl and a whip made of three strands of rawhide fastened to a horn handle of elk prongs presented to the young man by the chief of the tribe.

"After all the arrangements were completed with the girl's father and the young man and the time set for the ceremony, everybody in the case was happy except the girl. Here is where the trouble began with these parties. The girl objected ; she thought that she was the one who should be consulted, and refused to carry out her father's contract with the young man, and her father could not persuade her. The matter was reported to the chief ; the chief with his select warriors were called together as a council of war. After they had heard the evidence of the father and the young man they listened to the girl. The girl's objections were that there was another young man she preferred. Still the verdict of the chief and his counselors of war was that the girl should carry out the contract and accept the young man as her bridegroom. The girl still refused and was forced to be married to the former young man.

and the next morning the matter was referred back to the chief. Their mode of ]ninishment for what they considered a crime was to be whipped; so the chief ordered the young girl whipped. She was taken by two young men of her own tribe, a rope was put around her neck, her back was bared, and she was then bound to a tree. The chief had ordered one of the young men to give her ten lashes with the whip that had been presented to her husband at their marriage ceremony.

"Her cries and screams, so severe was her punishment, were lieard half a mile away. They were then camped on the south side of the Blue, and Heller's folks were on the north side. Heller's folks, hearing the cries and screams, supposed that one of their neighbors was sick and had started across the river to the neighbor's house to find out the cause. After they had crossed the river they saw this young girl coming, crying and hallooing. Xot understanding their language, they could not make out what it was, but they saw the welts that were npon the girl's body, and motioned her to go to the house on the' other side of the river.

"The girl went to the house, ran through the house into the bedroom and jumped on the bed, still crying and hallooing. Heller's women folks, not knowing what it meant, ran out of the house and waited until the men came home. Not understanding what the case was, we went to the chief's wigwam and there, through the interpreter, found out what is stated above. In talking to the interpreter, and he talking to the chief, we were given tu understand that that was their law and their custom of punishment for all crimes. Through us and the interpreter, the chief sent the father to the house and brought the young girl back to camp. Father, mother, and her intended persuaded the young girl to carry out her father's contract. We watched the couple through the winter, and they seemed, after knowing one another, to enjoy one another's company, and in the spring left their camping ground for Omaha, their ulil home."

York County's bar began to attain eminence in judicial circles very early in its career, and George W. Post started this habit by a very early election to the District Bench, a post of honor to which numerous York County hiwyers later attained.

George Wallace Post was born at Cumberland, Guernsey County, Ohio. February 20, 1848, the son of Eev. AVilliam E. and Sarah S. Post, both of Scotch lineage.

When George was about three years old the family removed to Hibbardsville, Ohio, where they resided until about the year 1859, when the entire family removed to Clay County, Missouri. This was just before the War of the Rebellion. Political animosity soon became so pronounced that men known to be in sympathy with the Union were not safe in that part of the country. George's father was an outspoken antislavery advocate and friend of the Union. As a result, practically all of his property was confiscated and destroyed, and he was glad to get away with the members of his family uninjured. The family then located at Leon, Decatur County, Iowa, from which place they removed a year later to Davis County, Iowa, near Bloomfiekl, where the father died in 1868, leaving a widow and six children, two daughters and four sons. In May, 1864, George Wallace Post enlisted in Company D, 45th Iowa Infantry, and was discharged in September of the same year by reason of the expiration of the term of service.

In addition to liis attendance in the public schools, he was educated at Troy College, an institution then flourishing at Troy, Iowa. By teaching school and working by the month, he earned the money to assist his mother and family and pay his way through school. While in school he also devoted a part of his time to reading law, and in 1871 he was admitted to the bar at Bloomfield, Iowa. Soon after this he came to York, Nebraska, and engaged in the practice of his profession. From 1871 to 1875 he was active in his profession, being engaged in much of the important litigation in this part of the state. In 1875 he was elected district judge of the fourth judicial district, which comprised the counties of Dodge, Colfax, Platte, Merrick, Hall, Howard, Hamilton, Polk, Butler, Saunders, Seward, and York. Four years later he was elected to the same office. Before the expiration of his second term he was forced to resign his office by reason of ill health, which was induced by overwork. On March 5, 1883, he was appointed collector of internal revenue and United States disbursing officer for Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. This appointment came to him without solicitation on his part. He discharged the duties of that office until October, 1886, at which time he resigned in order to devote himself to his personal business. In 1872 he issued the first call for a republican convention in York County and presided over the convention. He was chairman of the County Republican Committee for many years. He was the chief attorney for the Northwestern Railway Company south of the Platte River during all of its construction period.

He was united in marriage on January 1, 1879, with Miss Laura McConaughy, at Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. To tliein have lieen born five children, four daughters and one son.

On retiring from public oflice he devoted himself to the business of banking, in which he was already interested. On March 20, 1884, he was elected president of the York Exchange Bank. This bank was soon reorganized as tlie York National Bank, of which he was elected president and continued as such until October, 1893, at which time he and liis business associates bought the First National Bank of York, and consolidated the two banks and operated the same as the First National Bank. He served as president of this bank until August, 1912. He organized and became president of the First Trust Company of York in August, 1911. He organized and became president of the Bank of Benedict November 27, 1889, and continued as president until February 8, 1906, at which time the bank of Benedict was converted into the First National Bank of Benedict. He served as president of this bank until Augu.st, 1913. On May 14, 1879, he and his business associates organized the State Bank of Bradshaw. He served as president of this bank until March, 1906, at which time this bank was converted into the First National Bank of Bradshaw-. He was elected president and served until August, 1912. In June, 1889, he became president of the Blue River Bank of McCool Junction and served as such until August, 1912. In April, 1902, he bought the controlling interest in the Bank of Lushton and served as vice president until August, 1912. In May, 1885, he became president of the Farmers and Traders Bank of Waco and served continuously as president until August, 1912. After he sold his banking and property interests he removed to Torrence, California, where he has actively engaged in many banking and business matters, but has never lost his interest in York County, which still holds a large corner in his heart.

In 1873 Judge Lake continued as district judge, or rather as the reader will gather from the history of the state courts in that state section of this work, the members of the Supreme Court held the District Court work throughout the state at that time. George W. Post became district attorney at this time. George B. France and Edward Bates had opened law offices by this time. M. B. Hoxie became district attorney in 1876, and Judge William Gaslin, who had held court in York in 1876, was succeeded by Judge George W. Post. With its first resident judge, court work in York County began to assume more regularity. M. B. Eeese became the next district attorney for this jurisdiction and served for the next three years, with District Judge Post. Bird C. Wakley became court reporter in 1877. In 1879 Attorneys Bates, Moore, and Scott were the commissioners to examine applicants for admission to the bar. In that period the examinations could be made by a local board of attorneys and the applicants admitted before the local District Court. M. S. Lindsay was thus admitted in 1879. John T. Bell acted as court reporter in January, 1880. The lawyers not already mentioned who were practicing here by 1880 were D. R. Ralston, N. V. Harlan, and W. W. Giffen. At the July, 1880, session, Judge Reese and District Attorney Eeese officiated, with B. C. Wakeley as court reporter, and Fred C. Power was admitted to practice. In December, 1880, E. M. Battis was Judge Post's court reporter. The 1881 work was handled by the same officers. Thomas Darnell was district attorney in the 1882 and 1883 sessions. Judge Gaslin, who was at this time presiding over a district composed of counties lying farther west in the state, presided in February, 1883, in York County. The term of May 8, 1883, was presided over by the new judge of this district. Hon. T. L. Norval of Seward, whose court reporter was H. M. Waring. They came to York for court in January and December, 1884, and April, 1885. In December, 188.5, Frank B. Tipton was court reporter with Judge Norval. This pair of court officers made visits to York County for court terms during 1886, 1887, 1888, and 1889. In January, 1890, a term of court was held at York by the newly appointed judge. Jerome H. Smith of Aurora. J. T. Hale had become county attorney with the change of system that supplanted the district attorney, with a county attorney for each separate county. F. C. Power took this office over in 1890. In 1891 Edward Bates of York became the county's second resident district judge, and T. E. Hamilton became his court reporter, and Matt Miller of David City was the other judge of this district. In March, 1891, Judge J. E. Cochran of McCook held district court in York for Judge Bates. In June, 1891, Judge William Marshall of Fremont, of the neighboring fifth district, held court in York for Judge Bates. As reporter, W. T. Bucher worked with him. Judge Bates held a term in October, 1891, with F. B. Tipton as court reporter. In January, 1892, York County District Court had its first term, held by Judge Robert Wheeler of Polk County. Bucher served as his reporter, with H. L. Laird as deputy at the February session. Judge Bates and Reporter Hamilton worked at the September, 1892, session, and again in January, 1893. The district was now firmly entrenched with two district judges, which system has prevailed in this judicial district up to the present time (1921). In 1893 George F. Corcoran became court reporter for Judge Wheeler, and thus Y^'ork had one judge and two reporters for a time. Judge Bates and Reporter Hamilton worked on the York County docket in the early part of 1894. Judge Wheeler took the docket late in 1894. The court iu 1895 and 1896 was held by Judge Bates. In 1896 for a third time York County furnished a judge to this judicial district, when Samuel H. Sedgwick assumed the office. Xellie Kelly, who had served in the office of Sedgwick & Power and at times worked as deputy reporter, assumed the work for nine months, until the arrival of Arthur W. Eichardson of David City. Mr. Eichardson afterwards served as reporter in Lancaster County and is now an actively practicing attorney of Lincoln. Judge Bates held the docket in January, February, and May, 1897. York County now had two resident judges, Judges Bates and Sedgwick, and had continuous service. From then on the work was generally divided between the two judges, each holding part of the court work in the county. But in 1899 and 1900, Judge Sedgwick held most of the York County work. T. E. Hamilton had served as reporter with Bates right along, and in 1900, when Judge B. F. Good of Wahoo, Saunders County, succeeded Judge Bates, George F. Corcoran returned to the court reportership. When Judge Sedgwick was succeeded by Judge S. H. Sornberger of Saunders Coiinty, 0. P. Heald of Osceola became court reporter. In 1901, 1903, and 1903 the terms were divided between Judges Good and Sornberger. In 1901 Judge Arthur J. Evans of David City became Judge Good's colleague, and C. J. Brown of York his reporter. They divided the terms in York County during 1904, 1905, 1906, and 1907. Beginning in 1908, Judge Good's colleague on the bench was his former reporter, George F. Corcoran of York, who appointed Albert P. Sprague of York as his reporter. For a short period Eeporter Heald went to Idaho to do special work on the Hayward trials. In 1912 E. E. Good of Wahoo became district judge, succeeding Judge B. F. Good. Since 1912, for a period of practically nine years. Judges Good and Corcoran have worked together in this district. Eeporters Heald and Sprague have remained at the task, until, in 1919, Eeporter Heald resigned to enter the banking business at Trenton, Neb., and Judge Good was without a permanent reporter until in January, 1921, when Eeporter G. M. Baird, who has served many years with District Judge H. S. Dungan of Hastings, came to him for regular work.

By 1884 this list had expanded so it shows the arrival of a number of new members of the York County bar. At that time lawyers practicing in York included: Hale & Head (J. F. Hale and H. B. Head), D. T. Moore, Sedgwick & Power, J. C. Naylor, France & Harlan, Scott & Frank (W. T. Scott and M. C. Frank), J. C. Moats, E. A. Gilbert, A. C. Montgomery, T. Eddy Bennett, D. T. Moore, J. C. Carnahan, and Fred C. Power.

Attorney Culbertson in 1886 was a partner with W. W. GifEen. The bar continued on through the later '80s with very few changes, even in the personnel of the firms. Another attorney who began practicing in York during this period was W. M. Cowell.

Tlio firm of Scott & Frank was succeedi-d l,y the firm of Scott & Gilbert. W. S. Willard came very late in the "80s. G. W. Bemis was also practicing about this time in York, having been admitted to i3ractice in 187G and practiced for r~ome years in Clay County. J. W. Purinton, uho is still practicing in York, began early in the '[m. having been admitted in ISitd. George M. Spurlock was also admitted to practice in 1890. Other lawyers who have been actively practicing in York in recent years who were admitted to practice in this same decade were: W. W. Wyckoff, 1894; C. F. Stroman, 189.5; W. L. Kirkpatrick, 1894, and H. G. Hopkins, 1896. The firm of France & Harlan was dissolved in the early A. S. and N. V. Harlan were practicing as Harlan & Harlan.

At the beginning of the decade of 1900 to 1910, somewhat of a re-alignment of firms had taken place. E. A. and C. F. Gilbert were practicing together as Gilbert Brothers. Judge Bates, having retired from the district bench, had entered the firm of Bates & Kirkpatrick. W. \V. WyckolT. T. E. Bennett, and E. A. Fletcher were practicing alone. Other firms were Purinton & Olmstead and Sedgwick & Power. A short time later J. W. Purinton began to practice alone. After Judge Sedgwick went on the bench, F. C. Power was left alone. But within a few years, and prior to 1906, new alignments were formed and the firms of Purinton & Sandall and Power & Meeker appeared. By 1908 J. W. Purinton and C. E. Sandall were practicing alone.

A roster of the York County' liar in 1909 shows those then i)racticing to be : a. W. Bemis, T. E. Bennett, France & France (G. B. France and G. W. France). Gilbert Brothers, H. G. Hopkins, W. [>. Kirkpatrick, Power & Meeker (F. C. Power and M. Meeker), J. W. Purinton, C. E. Sandall. Samuel H. Sedgwick, George M. Spurlock, C. F. Stroman, A. B. Taylor, il. JI. Wildman, Arthur G. Wrav. and AV. W. Wyckofi.

Eleven years have shown but few changes in the personnel of this bar, as in 1920 twelve of those named above are still practicing in York County. The roster of the bar in 1920 shows John Carlin, G. W. France, C. F. Gilbert, E. A. Gilbert, Oden S. Gilmore, who was admitted in 1911; J. E. Hoover, H. G. Hopkins, W. L. Kirkpatrick, Benton Perry, J. W. Purinton, C. E. Sandall, T. E. Sedgwick. George M. Spurlock, Charles F. Stroman, M. ]\r. Wildiiiaii. Arthur G. Wray, and \V. \V. Wvckoff.

Xow having taken the story of York County's settlement, development and growth, of the pioneers, of the individuals in every line of endeavor who bore the burdens of the past sixty years, and having divided this story into some twenty parts, according to the various lines of human endeavor, let us, in closing, approach the subject from one more angle.

Taken chronologically, year by year, marking the initial venture into each classification of life in a community like York County, and recording the unusual hardships and successes, unfolds the story like a drama.

1861. The location of the territorial road at a point on the line of the old Government or California Trail, forty miles east of the present Kearney, marked the initial step in bringing the York County territory on the map.

1862. This territory, York County, was still in the hands of the Indians, the wild animals of the prairie, and an occasional trapper or emigrant passing through.

1^63. The first'frame building was built on Porcupine Eanch (Brown Township) by Benjamin F. Lushbaugh, United States Indian agent, conducted by Samue' Kearney ; this marks the beginning of human building operations in York County.

186-t. Lushbaugh established Jack Smith Eanch, which was in charge of Mr. Chapin six months and then of Mr. Smith. The first death occurred upon this ranch. The McDonald Eanch was established in the same year. David Baker in August settled near the present location of York.

1865. In February the first permanent settlement was made by John Anderson and his son, William Anderson, on the West Blue Eiver ; they homesteaded the south half of section 9, range 1. The second death in the county occurred when Sam Tate was shot by Smith in self-defense ; the grave is on the brow of a hill on section 15, township 10, range 2, four miles southeast of York.

1866. The first white child was born in the county (Lillie M. Gilmore, June 3d; now Mrs. J. E. Hunt of Bayard, Neb.), on the Jerry Stanton homestead, near where MeCool is now.

1867. The first postoffice in the county was established at McFadden, with Fernando McFadden as postmaster. The first wedding in the county was the marriage of Mr. N. J. Dixon and Miss Lydia A. Gilmore, at the Elias Gilmore home, the ceremony being performed by Squire Millspaugh. The second couple was married in October - Mr. and Mrs. Ed Copsey.

1868. A large herd of buffaloes invaded the county. A United Brethren class was formed. The Pawnees, Omabas, Otoes and Poncas and Sioux invaded the countv on the south side of the Blue, eight miles south of York.

1870. By proclamation of Governor Butler, York County was formed. Ou April 26th the iirst election was held. There were eighty-six votes cast in three precincts. The first schoolhouse was prepared, Lizzie Lowery being teacher.

1871. A new mail route, from Lincoln via Seward, went through to Grand Island. PostofRces were established at Palo, Thayer, and Aikins' Mills in York County. The courthouse election was held, and a school district was formed in York.

1872. On March 19th, an election voted down the Midland Pacific Railroad proposal. In June an agricultural society was organized. A courthouse was built. The first paper, the York Monitor, was issued.

1873. York County took on a big debt for the erection of bridges and other internal improvements. The first county fair was held. The big Easter .storm did great destruction.

1875. Hon. George W. Post elected district judge. County board incorporated Town of York. First bank in county started by MeWhirter. Arliorville laid out by C. S. Harrison.

1880. BelFs Block erected in York. New York incorporated by Mr. Woolley at north end of Town of York. Bradshaw laid out. York Times started. First Farmers' Alliance in country starts in West Blue Township of York County.

1886. New courthouse built. Old courthouse building sold at public auction to S. A. Harper and Morgan & Green for $250, and used for paint and carpenter shop, at Lincoln Avenue, between city and depot. York fire department won belt, cup, and championship at Fremont at fourtli annual tournament. Street railway (horse cars) projected in York.

1887. Railroad building activity in the county. McCool, Thayer, Benedict and Poston, now Gresham, started as new towns. Second victory of fire department boys at Kearney, lower world's record to 44 4/5.

1888. January 2d, great storm devastates county. George B. France elected state master of Masonic order. Henderson and Lushton, new towns, laid out and

Histoky Of Yoek Couxty 797

1889. At Eed Cloud fire department wins third and final victory and secures possession of cup, at seventh annual tournament. Y. M. C. A. at York organized.

1890. Ursuline Convent secured for York. York College, United Brethren school, secured, which replaces somewhat loss of Methodist school. Pioneer David Henderson died. On June 3d Town of Bradshaw practically wiped out by terrible cyclone. Benedict incorporated.

1894. Library work revived by new free library association in city building. Various clubs organized for women's work and musical and literary studies.

1901. Mrs. Lydia A. B. Woods made gift of $10,000 - $8,000 for library site and building and $2,000 for books. Christian and U. B. churches dedicated. 1903. New library building opened. Y. M. C. A. building built.

1912. Merger of Farmers National and Fir.st National banks at York. Proposal for city to change to commis.sion plan of government decisively defeated.

1917. War embroiled America in April, and war work takes front of stage of all human activities. Bad hail .storm on August 8th. S. Y. A. road put through.

York In 1920

"York, January 1, 1920. - York is steadily progressing, and for a city of small size it has advantages that are found in no other city of anything like its size. The following list of the city's progress for the past year is hardly believable for such a sized community. York also claims the honor of being the best lighted city in Nebraska and further that it has more modern .stores than any other city of twice its size. New business buildings have been completed as follows: Lincoln Telephone and Telegraph Co., $28,000; Rystrom Implement Co., fire-proof garage, 75x120 feet, $45,000 ; addition to the Lutheran Hospital, twenty-six rooms, $85,000 ; Country club house, $15,000 with grounds costing $15,000; Clinic hospital, sixteen rooms, $20,000 ; Public Service Co., ten-ton ice house and storage room, $25,000 ; H. W. Brott, $3,000; improvements on business liouses, $75,000; York Brick & Tile Co. improvements $35,000; York Water Co., wells, etc., $7,500; new electroliers and new cables for street lighting system, $800; Stines beach, $3,000. There has been completed eight new residences, costing from $6,000 to $15,000 each; improvements on residence property, $65,000; underground telephone .system has been installed, which will soon be in working order and all poles removed from the business section of the city. There are no empty Imsiness houses in the city nor residence rental property to be had, while houses occupied, with two rooms to rent are in demand. There are two things that will relieve the situation and that will be lower wages and lower prices for building material.

Chaptek Xxi

YORK county's SERVICE "BACK HERE" - THE MILITIA BOYS CALLED - FLAG TO COMPANY M - FIRST HOME ACTIVITIES THE ELKS RESOLUTION RECRUITING BEGINS

York County received the news that the United States had declared a state of war upon the German Empire just the same as her sister counties. The great mass of her citizens immediately dropped all prior opinions and present plans and rallied to the one idea, our country first. The president's message to Congress was published in full in the York newspaper of April 3d and 4th.

The Militia Boys Called

Just prior to the President'.? call upon Congress to declare a state of war upon Germany, Company M of York received notice to be ready to move upon receipt of transportation. Captain Holdeman had been promoted to be major of the Second Battalion, which left Second Lieutenant Shapland as the ranking officer of the company. First Lieutenant Newbold was appointed to a lieutenancy in the regulars in the aviation corps. The roster of Company M was completed on Monday, April 2d, and was as follows:

Flag To Company M.

Upon the occasion of the departure of Company M the first important public gathering of the war period took place when the flag was presented to Company M.

The Woman's Relief Corps and the Grand Army of the Republic, acting jointly, presented Company M, Fourth Nebraska Infantry, with a handsome flag Tuesday morning. The presentation took place from the north steps of the courthouse and was witnessed by a large crowd. The notice of the presentation was short, else the attendance would have been vastly larger. But the crowd was large enough to prove to the soldier boys that the entire community held them in the highest esteem and wished them well ; that it appreciates their loyalty and their patriotism.

John Lett, past department commander of the Nebraska G. A. R., presided, and a quartette led in the singing of the national anthems. The program began with the singing of "America" by the entire audience. Rev. Mr. Adams then invoked the divine blessing upon the soldier boys and the entire assembly.

Rev. Dr. Wasser made the address of presentation, speaking briefly and feelingly of the crisis confronting the country, and warning the people against giving way to

Lieutenant Shapland, commanding the company, responded to the presentation address, and holding the beautiful banner in his hand, pledged Company M to uphold its traditions and the traditions of the fathers and grandfathers whose sacrifices made the flag the symbol of a free and united country.

"The Old Flag Never Touched the Ground," was sung by the quartette, and its stirring march strains started feet to keeping time, and shoulders squared as eyes gazed upon the fluttering folds of "Old Glory" as they were held aloft by the company color bearer. Then the entire assembly joined in singing "Star-Spangled Banner," after which the benediction was pronounced by Rev. Mr. Johns.

In accordance with instructions from the war department Company M took the -1 :20 P. M. train for Grand Island. The company assembled at Armory Hall at noon and at 13:30 marched to the Burlington depot, escorted by a large crowd of citizens, conspicuous among whom were the fathers and mothers of the troopers. There was no great display of enthusiasm. The people are loyal and patriotic enough, but everybody realizes that a serious crisis faces the Republic, and that this is no time for mere hurrahs and flag waving. But there was an air of quiet determination that gave evidence that the people are united and that individual opinion has been subordinated to the one desire to stand by the flag and by the administration.

First Home Activities

York Lodge No. 102-t, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, acting on the suggestion of Grand Exalted Ruler Rightor of Xew Orleans, adopted at regular meeting Wednesday night, April 4, the following resolutions:

"Resolved by York Lodge Xo. 1024, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, that while we deprecate the waging of unnecessary warfare upon any country, as patriotic Americans, we pledge our support both moral and material to the President of the United States in the present crisis, and hope that if all efforts for a peaceful solution of the present difficulty fail, that the Congress will provide adequate means for the defense of our beloved country, the protection of our citizens, and to maintain the honor of our flag."

The unobtrusive support that was later given by this order in the entire United States, in undertaking the work of the Salvation Army, is a feature of the war history of this Republic that is a source of pride to even more than the members of this American order. A big public rally was the next move made to arouse the patriotic enthusiasm of York County citizens.

Becruiting Begins

Before the end of A[)ril the call to ser\ice was being sounded and twenty more men were needed from York County to fill the ranks of Company M. The spirit of the appeal as it was then felt, and the eall that was heiog sounded to naval service as well can best be reflected by reproducing here an appeal to recruiting made public in the York Democrat on April 25, 1917:

"Company M, Fourth Nebraska Infantry, needs twenty more men to recruit it up to place strength of 100 men. Major Holdeman, who was captain of Company M for years, is chief recruiting officer here now, with headquarters at the postoffice. And Major Holdeman wants the twenty volunteers to be York County boys, so the company will really be a York County company. Nearly one-third of the present membership was recruited from outside of this county. York County furnished 57 men, Fillmore County 1-4, Lancaster County 1, Polk County 1, Seward County 1, and the rest of the state 2. Of the York County boys in Company M, 34 are from York, 11 from McCool, 7 from Waco, 2 from Henderson, and 1 each from Bradshaw, Benedict, and Lushton.

"Major Holdeman has his office at the postpffice building, but the company headquarters are still at the Armory building. Whatever arrangements have been made for the disposition of the Fourth Eegiment is a "state secret" as yet. The probabilities are, however, that the regiment will not long remain at Fort Crook.

"Saturday a naval recniiting officer will be in York for the purpose of securing enlistments in the United States Navy. This branch of the service offers splendid opportunities for young men. It gives them a chance to see the world, and the possibilities of promotion and increased pay are unusually good. Besides which, there is every incentive to save the wages received and in time retire on a .service pension. There are a lot of young fellows in York who are capable of rendering Uncle Sam good service in the Navy Department, and at the same time greatly benefit themselves."

Poorly advertised and with the notice all too short, a patriotic meeting held at the courthouse Saturday afternoon, April 28th, was well attended.

Mayor Smith presided and briefly stated the oi)jeets of the meeting. Charles S. Gilbert spoke briefly and interestingly of the crisis and reviewed the events leading up thereto. Mayor Colton said a few words, but they were eloquent. He said no man should urge others to enlist unless himself ready to enlist. And he liad asked fur a chance to serve the colors. Mr. IIa<le ])i-(iiiilly referred to the fart that be has a son in the navy, and Professor Mcljaughlin struck a popular chord with his all too brief remarks. Next week President McLaughlin will be in Washington in attendance upon a meeting of college presidents called to consult with the federal authorities as to what the colleges may best do to serve the country now. "I am sure that York College will respond to any call that may be made upon it," said President McLaughlin.

Major Holdeman briefly stated what Nebraska's share is in recruiting and asked the young men of York County to do their share. Naval Recruiting Ollicer Mallierbe, who has seen fourteen years of service, spoke in an interesting wav and gave a leaf or two out of his experiences.

. 1'he York County Commercial Cluli imiiiediately awoke tu the neeiissity of conserving every energy and utilizing every agency calculated to produce foodstuffs against the dark days that loomed ahead. Witli the assistance of the city council, the club proceeded to list every vacant lot and fraction of a lot in the city, and set every foot of it to producing staple foodstuffs to be stored for fall and winter use, Messrs. Meehan, McCloud, Liggett, and Smith acting as a committee to secure the ground.

An employment bureau was planned at once for the benefit of the farmers seeking help. Men wanting jobs on the farm were invited to list their names with Secretary Shreck, and farmers in need of help were invited to consult with him. The Northwestern and the Burlington both offered the free use of their right-of-way for the production of certain crops, the work to be done under the supervision of responsible parties.

The recruiting met an immediate response, so many young men wishing to enlist tliat he had to refuse to take more, his time in York being limited to permit a proper examination.

The following young men were recruited, seven of the number failing to pass the physical examination : Alviu L. Dodson, Eoy Townsend, Allen Lamm, Eobert J. McDonald, Keith Jones, Jean P. Jysp, George F. Maul, Albert Dixon, E. E. Schnielzel, Ealph L. Ferris, Harry E. Preebe, Frank C. Peck, George A. Johns, Arthur L. Surface, John E. White," Floyd W. Woolly, Arthur J. Yost, Eobert G. Miller, Evend A. Nielsen, Clarence Pile, YA H. Henning, Carl J. Paulsen, Lawrence L. Valentine, Claude V. Larkin, and Eoy H. Larson.

York Men Called Upon

Early in May two York men were called upon by the national and state officials for consulting services. Mr. J. W. Shorthill served throughout the war in assisting with the formation and consummation of plans relating to the agricultural problems. In August, 1917, he was selected by Food Commissioner Herbert Hoover as secretary of the Federal Corporation to take over the grain supply of the country. Charles A. McCloud served throughout the war period as a member of the State Council of Defense. The press of May 9th carried the following two notices which commented upon the first call to service of these two well-known citizens of York :

"J. W. Shorthill of this city, secretary-treasurer of the Farmers' Co-operative Association, with headquarters here, was in Washington last week, consulting with the Council for National Defense.

"Mr. Shorthill said that in view of the Government making strenuous efforts to get the farmers to grow additional crops, it was imperatively necessary that the railroads should move the crops now in elevators or in other storage in order that the crop coming on might be taken care of.

" 'The grain on the farm is in the hands of people wlio have facilities to hold it,' said Mr. Shorthill. 'If that grain is not moved off the farm before the new crop comes on, those farmers who have facilities to hold will have to dump the grain on the market with those who lack holding facilities. That would obviously result in a greater congestion than exists at present.'

"Mr. Shorthill was assured that every effort would be made to give the farmers and grain dealers throughout the country the sought-for relief."

"Last Friday Governor Neville honored York County and the state by appointing Charles A. McCloud as a member of the State Council of Defense. With E. 0. Webber of Wahoo, Mr. McCloud will represent the bankers upon this council. General George Plarries of Omaha is chairman of the council and Richard L. Metcalfe is one of the members. There yet remains two members to represent the railroads, and then the council will be complete.

"The State Council of Defense will act in conjunction with the National Council of Defense in making a comprehensive survey of the entire country, with a view to co-ordinating its every activity during the progress of the war.

"Mr. McCloud's appointment was a complete surprise to him, and was made ui)on recommendation of a number of bankers who were consulted by Governor Neville. He has accepted the appointment and will give the duties the fullest possible attention."

Red Cross Orgaxized

A mass meeting was called by Mayor Smith for Sunday afternoon, May 20th, at the Opera House, when the work of the Red Cross was fully explained and plans for organization of the York County Chapter were formulated. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Smith, and Wade H. Read was elected chairman. The assembly joined in singing "America," and the divine blessing was invoked by Rev. W. C. AVasser. Senator C. E. Sandall explained the work of the Red Cross in a few well chosen words, and Doctor McConaughy followed with cogent reasons why York should have a branch of the organization. E. B. Woods spoke of the part business men must jilay in the present crisis. "Columbia" was then sung by the assembly, after which Mr. Burton, field secretary of the Red Cross, Denver, spoke interestingly of the work performed by the Red Cross.

On motion of Miss Detrick, it was decided to organize a local branch in York, and 140 people responded to the call for enrollment. The following officers were selected: Chairman, A. E. Mead; vice chairman, Dewitt Lee; secretary, C. C. Boslaw ; treasurer, Mrs. W. E. McCloud ; directors, Dennis Meehan, Commercial Club; J. E. Hart, banks; Dr. George Shidler, medical profession; Mrs. Jennie Stephens, charities organization ; Mrs. W. A. Harrison, Woman's Department Club.

County Couxcil Of Defense

York County organized a county branch of the Council for State Defense, with Mayor T. W. Smith as chairman. Dr. F. S. Morris of McCool, vice chairman; C. C. Boslaw, secretary, and A. A. Metz, treasurer. The organization was perfected at a meeting held at the courthouse Saturday afternoon, May 19th, and the entire committee were called together in a few days for the perfecting of plans as outlined by the state council.

At the close of Professor Fling's address the York County Council of Defense was organized with the officers as named above. The precinct mendiers of the council were selected as follows: Stewart, Robert Brown; Thayer, Thomas Price; Morton, H. B. Bottum; Arhorville, Charles Flick; Bradshaw, R. W. Findley; Lockridge, James A. Barr; New York, Fred Strobel; Waco, R. F. Getty; Beaver, Charles Purin-

Registration Dat, June 5, 1917

In common with every other county in the state, or community in the country, June 5, 1917, will stand out as a red-letter day in the history of York County. Since the foundation of the Republic, the American people had inherited a deepseated prejudice against anything akin to universal compulsory military service. To ask almost ten millions of men, between the ages of twenty-one and thirty-one, reared and educated to the idea of absolute freedom from any form of military service except such as they might voluntarily assume, to register for possible military service, seemed to many almost a dangerous risk for the federal Government to run. But it proved decisively that this tradition was more than offset by a popular will to win the war, and so imbued were the American people with the determination to perpetuate their democratic ideals, and so deeply impressed were they with the knowledge that it was not only necessary to raise an army, but to do it quickly, that the whole nation registered 9,586,508 men on that notable June 5th.

Sheriff Miller, County Clerk Beck, and County Attorney Gillmore, the officials required to make the arrangements for the registration under the selective conscription act on June 5th, show as registrars in the famous precincts the following persons (the first name, where two are named in a precinct, was to act as chief registrar) :

How The Men Registered In York Cocntt

York County responded on June 5th without a protest, and there was not a sign of ill feeling, not a bit of display of disloyalty, nor a single disturbance. On the contrary, there were evi<leiiees of patriotism on every hand. The twenty-one registration precincts in tlie county were appropriately decorated, and while the young men who gathered to register were not at all hilarious, they were registering with the air of young men willing to do their hit in whatever capacity they might be called to serve.

A tour of the county made by the Y'ork County Commercial Club was a success in every particular. The schedule of the trip was a fast one and at the beginning there were those who doubted if it could be made in the time set. But the trip was made in an hour less time than the schedule called for, and with the excejjtion of the usual troubles incident to such a long trip there were no accidents and no confusion.

The start was made promptly at 7:30 Tuesday morning, and at 6:10 the pilot car headed back into York, an hour and forty minutes ahead of time.

Col. Charles A. McCloud had charge of the speaking part of the program, and also officiated as manager of the band and pilot for the long procession of autos. Every auto was decorated with flags, and several of them carried women of the Red Cross with their nurses' caps and their white aprons. The Y'ork Municipal Band was taken along, and at every stop inspired the crowds by playing "Star-Spangled Banner," "Stars and Stripes Forever," and "Let's All Be Americans Today." The speakers were brief in their remarks, but not one failed to win the applause of his listeners. Congressman Charles H. Sloan responded to a hurry-up call and came over from Geneva, joining the touring party at Waco, where he spoke briefly. From Waco Mr. Sloan went to Gresham and made a rousing patriotic address at the flag-raising exercises in that progressive and patriotic little city. Houston was the first place visited, and despite the early hour more than a score of men were present and the registrars were already busy. Dennis Meehan spoke briefly, and then the tourists hastened on to Gresham. Here Charles Gilbert spoke and earned the hearty cheers of a big audience. At Thayer, T. E. Sedgwick was the orator, and he made a telling little speech. There was a slight bobble in the program between Gresham and Waco, owing to the fact that the pilot lost his compass, and as a result the big reception committee from Waco met only the pilot car at the appointed place. The Wacoites were up and coming and they had six gaily decorated cars all ready to escort the tourists in. Congressman Sloan spoke briefly at the town hall in Waco, and then the Waco committee started the tourists on the right road to Beaver town hall. Here W. M. Maupin recited H. H. Bennett's patriotic poem, "The Flag Goes By." At Leroy town hall Mr. Meehan was again pressed into service, and T. W. Smith sent over to West Blue to speak while the rest of the tourists came into Y^'ork for lunch. Fifty minutes at York and the tourists took the road for the last leg of the trip. Lockridge was the first stop of the afternoon, and there a fine crowd had assembled. The Red Cross people had taken a short cut ahead and gathered in a fine lot of members before the band got there. F. P. Van Wickle was the orator at Benedict, and his brief speech was greeted with three rousing cheers. Mr. Gilbert made his second address at Arborville, and as usual aroused the enthusiasm of his auditors. At Bradshaw, Arthur Thompson, who had registered before he left York in the morning, made a most effective address. Mayor Smith spoke in Brown, and, by the way, while Brown is a Mennonite settlement it had registered the largest percentage of the eligibles of any of them. The registration at 3 :30 was forty-nine out of a ])ossible fifty-tliree. Mr. Meehan and Mr. Maupin spoke briefly to a big crowd at Henderson, and at Liishton Mr. Gilbert again thrilled the audience. Hayes town hall was reached rather too early for those who had arranged to be there to receive the visitors, and only the registrar and one patriotic woman were there. But the band played just the same. Here Doctor Morris of McCool, escorted by a bevy of Red Cross girls, met the tourists and piloted them into McCool, the last stop of the day. At McCool Colonel McCloud made a plea for everybody to buy a Liberty Bond. "

Just as the autoists started from McCool the rain began and followed the autoists almost to York. But aside from a little dampness in the closing hour the day couldn't have been better if made to order. Nor could the roads have been improved to any great extent. The plans for the evening exercises in York were abandoned on account of the weather.

While the band was playing and orators orating, busy gentlemen were engaged in spreading the glad news that York was going to pull ofl! the biggest Fourth of July celebration since that memorable day when the little tyke yelled for his granddad to ring the old Liberty Bell. Waco has the record for the largest crowd that greeted the visitors.

At Lushton Colonel MeCloud found it necessary to issue a warning against racing. "There is too much of it," said Colonel McCloud. "Several times my driver has had to run like thunder to keep some fellow from j)assing him."

Congressman Sloan visited in York during the late evening of registration day, and then went to Aurora to see the races and incidentally to nail back a few pickets on his fences.

The roster of those young men between the ages twenty-one and thirty-one, inclusive, who registered for selective service on June 5, 1917, includes the following :

Histoky Of Yoijk Cou.Xty

Broivn Hardy. Henry W. Hornyak, Gus A. Jeske, William F. Johnson, Yern R. Kliewer, Jacob A. Kliewer, Johann A. Kornelsen, Abraham J. Kornelsen, Gerhard G. Kornelson, John A. Kroeker, Frank Kroeker, Henry Kroeker, Henry G. Kroeker, Jacob G. Laird, Clarence W. Liedelmann, Louis G. Mierau, Cornelius J. Mason, Harry C. Mierau, Frank J. Prohaska, Robert A. Peters, Peter J. Page, John W. Prohaska, Joseph A. Parris, Glenn E. Quiring. Cornelius Regier. John A.

Tn the middle of June the Boy Scouts started out and "tagged'' every door in York with nntir-es that ])atriotic women were coining to canvass for Red Cross subscriptions and mcmhersliips. And e(|iially bright and early Monday morning, June 18tli, the patriotic women started out in squads, platoons and divisions. Each wonum had her pai'ticular territory, and for the sake, of convenience, as well a.s tor the confidence that comes from numbers, two or three women went together, 'i'hey were cordially received everywhere. Xot only were they cordially received, but they were handed out the dollars in a continuous sti'eam. The pledges taken were gratifyingly large, and only now and then did the solicitors meet with refusals. Of course they were courteously received everywhere. That was a foregone conclusion. And, of course, not everybody contributed. Xtit everyljody could contribute. But some wlio could easily give dollars only gave cents, and some who were amply able to give largely gave nothing but excuses. But everybody knows .who they are. They were seen again, and again, an<l again.

The drive ended the following Saturday, with apjjroximately twenty-five hundred members enrolled in the county, l)ut the committee did not stop at that point but went right ahead toward the goal of securing a thousand or fifteen hundred more.

Another biy effort was niaile to expand the work of the Red Cross and further its membership enrolhnent at the wonderful Fourth of July celebration, upon the tour advertising the great celebration held in York that year. The claims of the Red Cross on that occasion shared the attention of the joyful crowd with a plea of Major Holdeman and others for more enlistments in the pride of York in Company M of the Fourth Nebraska Infantry.

The flowery and enthusiastic account of this wonderful day prepared by Hon. Will il. Maupin. at that time editor of the York Democrat, and his celebrated "Personality Notes," while somewhat lengthy, will serve a triple purpose of, first, preserving a perhaps slightly enthusiastic record of the memorable occasion written while the memory of its enjoyable pleasures were still warm: second, reflecting somewhat the vivid feeling aroused even so early in the war period, and, third, preserving for future references or understanding some of the personalities of the local conditions and current customs of the latter part of the first decade of the Twentieth Century.

Something less than twenty years ago a famous Xebraskan made the direful prediction that if a certain thing happened we would cease celebrating the Fourth of July in this Republic. The thing happened in .sj)ite of his warning and his doleful and direful prediction.

Wliy the greatest? Because it was the natal day of a republic to which the whole civilized world is looking for final emancipation from autocracy and the inauguration of a world-wide peace that shall never again lie liroken by ambition-mad monarchs. Talk about Fourth of July celebrations - it was the biggest ever. It was celebrated from Portland, Maine, to Portland, Oregon ; from Hud.son's Bay to Porto Rico. More than that - it was celebrated in France and Great Britain and

Italy; in the islands of the sea, the steppes of Russia and Siberia, and everywhere on the face of this earth where men yearn for liberty and hope to see the final dethronement of all hereditary rulers.

Did we celebi-ate it in York? We did, and we were assisted by 20,000 friends and neighbors who came in from sister cities within a radius of fifty miles and more. They came in autos, in buggies, on motorbikes and horseback. They came by train and on foot. They came in squads, in companies, in battalions, in regiments and in divisions. York, which has entertained some crowds in her time, never entertained one so big nor entertained one so well as on Wednesday of last week. Men who made it a point to investigate closely estimate that there were not less than 2,500 automobiles parked inside of the city limits. And men who are accustomed to estimating multitudes declare that there were not less than 18,000 or 20,000 people on the streets, in the parks and on the lawns. From early morning imtil late at night the streets were congested. The courthouse square was packed like a box of sardines, and to go against the human tide on the sidewalks was like breasting Xiagara.

A finer day could not have been made to order. A light shower the night before laid the dust, and the morning of the great day dawned bright and clear. There was scarcely a cloud in the sky, and a light breeze brought coolness in its wake. The roads were in excellent condition for travel, and as all of them led to York on that day each one looked as if it were accomuiddating a parade, so closely did the autos follow one another.

York was all "dolled up" to receive her visitors, too. The courthouse was decorated with strings of flags and looked as pretty as a sjiotted dog under a red wagon. The electroliers were decked with flags, and the down town street intersections were ornamented with criss-cross streamers aglow with the national colors. Business houses hung out the welcome sign, and if there was anything left undone that might have added to tlie comfort of tbe visitors no one seemed to notice it. Refreshment stands everywhere provided food iiiid drink for the multitudes, and the ''traffic S(iuad"" kept the autos moving, although at times they threatened to get so tangled up that a derrick would be required to move them. And the glory of it all is that there was not a single accident to mar the day. A few blistered fingers and some singed hair, perhaps, but nothing of any moment. There was not a single arrest, not a single brawl, not a single "drunk and disorderly." The program announced was carried out without a hitch, all the way from the great parade in the morning to the grand display of fireworks at night.

The parade in York on July Fourth was fully three miles long, and it took just one hour for it to pass. York has had some mighty fine parades in the days gone by, but never such a one as that which passed last Wednesday week. It eclipsed all former efforts by a wide margin, and it is safe to say that nothing handsomer or more ambitious was ever accomplisheil in this great state. Practically every business firm in the city was represented, as was every Sunday school, a number of fraternal and church organizations, the Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A., and many citizens as individuals. The veterans of the Grand Army of the Republic were given the post of honor at the head of the long procession, and the finest automobiles in the city were placed at their disposal. And why not? It would have been a slim Fourth of Julv for us to celebrate had it not been for the brave services

The historieal floats were splendid examples of original designing and workmanship, and the "eomic.s" were really ftmny. T^nele Rastus and Aunt Dinah, aboard a. regular old soidlieni two-wheeler and hehind a genuine Dixie mule, created a. lot of laugliter. John Cliinaman, jiigtail and all, earrying a basket of laundry, and Charley Chaplin with his funny hat and funnier feet, and his dinkey little mustache, got a laugh all along tlu' line. "York County or Bust"" was typical of the old days when the prairie schooner set sail for the sundown side of the Big Muddy, and "The Spirit of '76" won applause all along the route of the parade.

The York band led the parade, followed liy the "Liberty"" float, which was greeted with cheers. Then followed the mayor and city council in autos, acting as an escort of honor to the G. A. R., the local post being given the honor place. Behind the veterans of the Civil war came Company M, sixty strong and making a fine appearance. After Company M canu^ the Spanish-American war veterans, and then men dressed in the uniforms of the Allies. "Nebraska" was the float that wound up the first section of the parade. The second section was headed by the Lushton Itand and was composed of ciNic and religious society floats and the autos and floats of the Red Cross organization. The float in this section that won the greatest attention was the Red Cross float showing a wounded soldier, all bandaged up and reclining on a cot, while sweet-faced Red Cross nurses hovered over him. A lot of young men expressed a willingness to be ministered to in the same way under similar conditions, but to date only a few of them have manifested a willingness to get into the game in earnest. Most of those who have manifested such a willingness are now enrolled in Company M or in the navy. The Benedict band led the third section, which was made u}) of industrial floats in the nmin. Many of these floats were of superior designing and worknianshi|i. and some of them were real works of art.

The Middlebrook store was represented by an auto covered with white flowers, with a curving canopy top and the name "Middleiirook" ajipcaring in red flowers upon the side.

The C. C. Cobb Co. float was a handsomely decorated jjlatform upon which rode several handsomely gowned young women who added much to the attractiveness of the float.

The Public Service Co. had a regular old submarine in the line - periscope, rapid-fire rifle and all. It sent a thrill through the spectators as it sailed slowly by, the rifle stuttering like a bashful boy at a tafly ]iull.

Ed McMullen"s float was of oi'igiiial design, being a huge jiadlock decorated with all sorts of tools and hardware. This float received a lot of favorable comment because of its originality.

JefE B. Foster was in line with a gaily decorated motor truck bearing a load of tlie justly celebrated "Queen Quality Flour"" that Jeff loves to sell.

Hi8T0Iiy Of York County 823

The Eadeniacher Furniture Co.'s float was all in white with waving ])lumes, and .showed two or three charming young women taking their ease in the comfortable chairs handled by this enterprising firm.

Johnson's Art Store diihi't have a float; it had a strikingly original way of representing itself, and pretty girls acted the part. This attraction won a lot of applause and many compliments.

The German-American Bank had a handsomely decorated auto in the line, and placards announced the superior facilities of this financial institution.

F. A. Hannis" contribution to the ];iarade was not large, Init what it lacked in that respect it made up in novelty, and it proved to be very attractive.

(ieorge Xelson's float was covered with ])ennants and placards telling the people that George sells superior brands of cigars and tobaccos at wholesale.

The York Tire & Repair Co. had a little old car in line that had already traveled something like 'steen thousand miles and announced as ''still rarin' to go." It was a novel little stunt.

Bradwell was represented by a beautifully decorated auto that carried out a well-defined color scheme, and the whole topped oft' with a huge American flag.

The Lincoln Telephone Co.'s float showed the advances made in the telephone business during recent years, and many bits of apparatus were shown.

The Day and Xight Garage contributed handsomely to the good looks of the parade by putting in a handsomely decorated Chandler and another car or two equally well decorated. This enterprising institution showed a lot of "pep" in the preparation of the exhibit.

The Felton Drug Co.'s decorated auto testified to the merits of Rexall remedies and called attention to the coolness and the refreshing qualities of the product of the Felton fountain.