York County, Nebraska - Biographical sketches, 1921 (part 13 of 13)

Eev. Andrew Edwards came to York in 1887 and for a number of years was a supply preacher of the Methodist Episcopal chirrch of Nebraska but had practically retired when he came west. On August 1st, 1876, Mr. Edwards was married to Miss Mary Ann McEoberts of Lucan, Canada, a daughter of Charles and Margaret (McLinden) McEoberts, the former born in County Down, Ireland, of Scotch parentage. Mr. and Mrs. McEoberts went to Canada in an early day and he was a successful farmer there. He also was engaged in business as a grain merchant and was a successful live stock dealer. Both he and his wife died in Canada. Of their family of seven children but three are living: Mrs. Edwards; Mrs. W. N. Shaver of St. Johns. North Dakota; and Charles A. McEoberts of Woodstock, Canada. The parents were members of the Canadian Methodist church. By a former marriage to Miss Eleanor Hadwin of Teeswater, Canada, on June 2, 1857, three sons were born to Eev. and Mrs. Edwards, namely: Wesley H. and Case, of the Edwards and Eierdan Company ; and Thornton A., of the Salts Textile Manufacturing Company. All three reside in New York.

To the second union were born six children : John C, who is engaged in the millinery business in Portland, Oregon; Hadwin P., who died in infancy; Mai'ion, who is manager of the store of The C. C. Cobb Co. of York, Nebraska; George H., who is interested in the Pacific Hat Company of San Francisco, California; Ethelda, wife of Mansfield Hervey, window decorator and salesman in The Cobb

Co.'s store in York; and James W., who is sales manager of the C. C. Cobb Co. James W. Edwards joined the U. S. Marines in the fall of 1917 and remained in the service for two years, one year's service overseas with the American Expeditionary Force in France.

He went "over the top" and participated in the drive of the Argonne Forest and after the armistice was signed, Nov. 11, 1918, he made the march to the Rhine with the American Forces and served six months with the army of occupation in Germany, returning to the U. S. A. in August, being honoroably discharged Aug. 13, 1919.

Kev. and Mrs. Edwards were members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. Edwards devoted practically his entire life to the work of the ministry. His political allegiance was given the republican party. He had attained the age of eighty-seven years when "the weary wheels of life at length stood still," but his memory remains as a blessed benediction to many who knew him. Mrs. Edwards now occupies a home at 815 Lincoln avenue, York, Nebraska, where she has resided for many years.

George Anthony Beck

The life record of George Anthony Beck was such as endeared him to all with whom he came in contact and his memory remains as a blessed benediction to those who knew him because of the sterling worth of his character and the high ideals which he ever followed. Christianity was to him a matter of everyday living. His beliefs were exemplified in his life, finding expression in kindliness and sympathy toward others, in the fairness of his judgment and in his straightforward dealings in all business transactions. Mr. Beck was born near Ottawa, Illinois, November 11, 1838, and was the second son in a family of six sons and one daughter whose parents were Benjamin J. and Mary Ann (Walrath) Beck, of St. Johnsville, New York. In the year 1837 the parents came to Illinois and were among the earliest settlers in La Salle county. Soon after the birth of their son George they removed to a farm four miles from Piano, in Kendall county, Illinois, and there he was reared to manhood. He was always eager to obtain an education, but the only opportunity accorded him in that direction was in the little country school, which he was able to attend during the winter months when farm work was impossible. He laid a good foundation during these brief school days and with much natural talent developed into a business man of marked ability. From childhood he lived a strictly moral life, and at the age of nineteen he decided to live a religious life. He joined the Methodist church and during his remaining days was untiring in his devotion to his church and to the welfare of his fellowmen, doing everything in his power for their nplift. From young manhood he served his church in different official capacities, acting as superintendent of the Sunday school, as member of the official board and as church treasurer. His home was always open for the entertainment of ministers of the gospel and his great love for the cause of Christ led to his untiring devotion to the work and interests of the church.

Patriotism was also one of the marked characteristics of Mr. Beck, who in October, 1861, responded to the country's call for troops to preserve the Union, enlisting as a sergeant of Company II, Thirteenth Illinois Cavalry, for service in the Civil war. During the first year he was detailed to carry mail in the Ozark mountains of Missouri and on one occasion was thrown from his horse, sustaining a serious injury from which he suffered the remainder of liis life. This caused his discharge from the service in September, 1862. He always remained a loyal supporter of the republican party, which was the defense of the Union during the dark days of the Civil war and which he always believed to be the party of reform and progress.

On the -Slst of December, 186-3, near Piano, Illinois, Mr. Beck was united in marriage to Sliss Caroline Elizabeth Tenney, who was born on a farm near Piano, Kendall county, Illinois, February 11, 1842. On her father's side she was descended from Thomas Tenney, a member of Rev. Ezekiel Rogers' compan.v, who came from Yorkshire, England, arriving in Salem, Massachusetts, in December, 1638, and settling at Rowley, Massachusetts, in April, 1630. Her great-grandfather was a member of the Ipswich company of minute men who marched at the memorable alarm of April 19, 1775. Her parents migrated to Illinois from New Hampshire in 1837 by private conveyances - two wagons - the journey requiring three months. The parents of Mrs. Beck were Amos and Hannah (Cass) Tenney. Her mother was a gentlewoman of Scotch descent who reared a family of eleven children, of whom Caroline was the tenth and was the last survivor. She acquired her education in a country school near Piano and in the Jennings Seminary at Aurora, Illinois, and on the 31st of December, 1863, she became the wife of George A. Beck at Piano. She was sixteen years of age when she joined the Congregational church and a few years later she united with the Methodist church, of which she continued a member throughout her remaining days. She possessed a clear soprano voice and in the early days of her residence in York led the singing at many prayer meetings and revivals. She possessed a bright, sunny disposition and a rare charm of personality. She had a genius for home making and was deeply devoted to her family and friends. She was also given to hospitality, and in the pioneer times before traineil nurses were available she gave her services freely to nursing the sick of the community. The temperance cause was also a matter of deep interest to Mrs. Beck and her influence was ever on the side of right. From young womanhood she also took an active ])art in the work of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society and gave liberally of her time and means to promote the cause. To Mr. and Mrs. Beck were born six children: Annie H., born February 5, 1865. at Piano, Illinois, was graduated from the York Methodist College in 1886 and afterward assisted her father in the grocery business. In 1889 she secured employment in the county clerk's office, was assistant fifteen years, deputy for ten years and in 1914 was elected to the position of county clerk on the republican ticket, being reelected in 1916. She also served as clerk of the local board during the World war and at the present time is proprietor of the Needlecraft & Music Shop at York: William A. Beck, the sec'ond of the family, born September 6, 1869. near Piano, Illinois, was graduated from the York Methodist College in 1886. He married Mertie E. Dale on the 23d of June. 1890, and in ^'^ovember of that year they removed to Denver, Colorado, where he is engaged in the wholesale cigar business. They have two sons: Claude George, a chiropractor of Denver; and Harold Lester, who is associated with his father in business; Julia M., born

December '..', l.sr;5, near riaiio, Illinois, uIm'i ua.- iMliuatcd iii the York public schools ami the Y'ork Methodist College. On the 11th of June, 1896, she became the wife of Sevmour W. Bissell and in January, 19(1!), removed to Hastings, Nebraska, where she has since resided with the exception of one year spent in Denver, Colorado: Henjainin .1. Heck, the fourth of the family, born January 2, 1875, near York. Nebraska, was graduated from the Y'ork high school in 1894 and in 1899 attended the Chicago Art Institute, specializing in designing. He became an instructor in the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts and at present is manager of the designing departinent of the Charles Everett Johnson Art Service Company of Chicago. On the 2()th of December, 1901, he married Magdalene Jones and tlicy had two children: (iazelle Janice, w^lio died in infancy; and George Anthony, his grandfather's namesake; Dwiglit H. Beck, born August 7, 1877, near Y'ork, was graduated from the Y'ork high school in 1897. He is now a merchant tailor of (hnaha, Nebraska, and is a thirty-second degree Ma.son. He was married March 18, 191.5, to Hazel Wilburn and their two children are Frederick Werne and Dwight Harvey, Jr.: Elsie M. Beck, Iwrii November 28, 1878, near Y'ork, Xcbra.ska, was gi-aduated from the York high school in 189(i, attended the Nebra.ska Wesleyan University and was a teacher in the public- schools of York and University Place. She was later secretary of the Nebraska Industrial Home at Milford, Nebraska, and bookkeeper at the N'ebi'aska Hos])ital for the Insane at Lincoln. Slie studied voice under ^fadanie Wave Wliitcomb and at the present time is associated willi the W. C. Baer Furniture Company.

It was in October, 187.'5, that ^Ir. Betk, on account of failing health, sought a new location. He came to York county, wliicli iiu]>ressed him so favorably that lie bought a tract of land and then returned to Illinois. Having decided to make the change, on the 20th of Februai-y, 1874. with his wife and three children, he arrived in Fairmont, Nebraska, which was the nearest railroad station to York, '{"he family was detained in Fairmont i'or several days by a real Nebraska blizzard and on the 24tli of FYbruary the ]iioneers came to the little village of Y'ork. In the spring a small house was erected on the eighty-acre farm which adjoins York on the west. The change of climate proved .so beneficial that Mr. Beck regained his health and for many years successfully followed farming, although in the early days, with other ])ioneers, he endured crop failures, grasshopper raids, droughts and floods, but as time ])assed on, the hardships and ti'ials of pioneer life were overcome and he became one of the substantial agriculturists of this section of the .state.

While tlcnied the education he so much desired foi' himself, Mr. Beck was anxious that his children should have better school facilities. He was deeply interested in the founding of the Nebraska Conference Seminary, later the Y'ork Methodist College, at York in 1880. He was a trustee of this s(4iool from the beginning and gave liberally of his time and money to the enterprise. lie believi'd that the Nebraska Wesleyan I'niversity sluuild be at York, but when it was located elsewhere and the York Methodist College closed its doors, his disappointment was so keen that he never recovered from it.

In the later years of his life ill health compelled Mr. Beck to give up active farm work and he engaged in the grocery business, his store being located first where the Y. M. C A. now stands, while later he removed to the location known as the M'ildman buildinLr. He established a large grocery trade and his success enabled him to perforin many of the acts of generosity and kindness that characterized his life. He was liberal to a fault and no one was ever turned away from his store empty-handed. He had implicit faith in humanity and never wearied in well doing. In 1888 ill health caused him to retire from active life. His great desire was to live for his family. He made a brave struggle and did not despair of recovery until the day of his death, which occurred October SG, 1889, lacking but a few days of being fifty-one years of age. He battled with disease all his life, but never lost hope. He was a man of faith, full of courage and ambition. The trials incident to pioneer life never vanquished him. He was strong in character, a man of pure speech and clean life, and at his going the unanimous verdict of the community was that if ever a man lived and died a consistent Christian and good citizen, that man was George A. Beck and that he would ever live in memory as an example worthy to be followed. Mrs. Beck survived her husband until February 12, 1920, passing away at her home in York. She and her husband were a stanch iniiuence for good in the early days, when society and opinions here were in the making. They always stood for righteousness, for clean living and the highest ideals and are entitled to a large share of the credit and gratitude due to those who made and kept York clean and temperate.

Charles F. Mulig

Charles F. Mulig, now deceased, who for many years was a respected and valued resident of York county, Nebraska, was born in Nova Scotia, October 13, 1840, the son of Charles Mulig, a native of Nova Scotia. The parents afterward came to this country and they passed away in Wisconsin, where their son Charles spent his childhood.

Charles F. Mulig served for three years in the Union army during the Civil war. He received a gunshot wound and though he spent some time in the hospital as a result of it he was not disabled permanently. After he was discharged from the service of his country he moved to Minnesota, where he remained three years and in 1870 came to York county, Nebraska, and took up a homestead of one hundred and si.xty acres, an allotment which was allowed to Civil war soldiers. His first home was a dugout on the northeast quarter of section 20 of what is now Beaver township. He was a good farmer and constantly made improvements, erecting a fine set of farm buildings which are still standing on the old farm where the widow and son now reside.

He was married in Wisconsin to Miss Josephine Clarke of Maysville, Wisconsin, and to them were born ten children, nine of whom are living. They are: Myrtle, the wife of John Gaylord who resides in New Mexico; Emma, the wife of A. A. Bristol of Omro, Wisconsin ; Florence, who is married to Charles J. Zweig of York county; Charles, who is married and lives in York county, Nebraska, and is engaged in the produce business; L. C, who is married and is a resident of Waco, Nebraska; Fred A., who lives in Utica, Nebraska : G. W., who since the death of his father has managed the home farm ; Elmer, who is married and resides in De Ridder, Louisiana; and Edna, the wife of Fred J. Strinz who resides in Utica, Nebraska.

Charles F. Mulig passed away in September. li)13, leaving to mourn his demise his devoted wife and children and a host of friends and neighbors throughout the community. As one of the earliest of the pioneers of the west he contributed in a marked measure to the development of the district in which he lived and he left the impress of his individuality upon the work of advanccmeut and im])rovciiierit.

Melvin 0. McLaughlin, member of congress from the York district since 1918 and prominently known in educational circles throughout the state, was born in Osceola, Iowa, August 8, 1876, his parents being William D. and Eisby J. (Creger) McLaughlin, the former a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1818, while the latter was born in Iowa in 1851. They were married in Iowa and lived there for a number of years but are now residents of Oswego, Kansas. In 1884 they removed to Eawlins county. Kansas, where the father purchased a relinquishment and concentrated his efforts and attention upon farming. In early manhood he had followed the profession of school teaching and was county superintendent of schools in Madison county, Iowa. He was a forceful, earnest and eloquent speaker who for many years was very active in politics, engaging extensively in campaign work, but in later years he has concentrated his efforts and attention upon farming. In early manhood he was a soldier of the Civil war, serving in the Thirty-third Wisconsin Eegiment for a period of three years, and was with Sherman on the celebrated march to the sea. In politics he has always been a republican and in days of peace has been as true and loyal to his country as when he followed the nation's starry banner on the battle fields of the south. He is a representative of one of the old families of Pennsylvania, being a son of Henry McLaughlin, a native of the Keystone state who removed to St. Charles, Iowa, where he followed farming to the time of his death. The maternal grandfather of Melvin 0. McLaughlin was John Creger, who was born in Ohio, and he, too, became a farmer of Iowa, in which state he also engaged in preaching as minister of the Christian church.

Melvin 0. McLaughlin was the third in order of birth in a family of seven children of whom six are living, but he is the only one residing in York county. He pursued his education in College View high school at Lincoln, Nebraska, in the Lincoln Normal University and at different periods studied in Peru, Nebraska, in Osceola, Iowa, and in the Union Biblical Seminary of Ohio. He was in school much of the time till thirty-two years of age, constantly broadening his knowledge along various lines. He studied law under Hugh Myers of Omaha and for five years in early manhood he taught school through the winter months, while in the summer seasons he continued his own education. He left the parental roof in 1892 and started out in life without capital, employing various means of obtaining a livelihood and educating himself. After teaching for five years he entered the ministry of the United Brethren church and was the organizer of a church of that denomination at Omaha, Nebraska, in the spring of 1907, remaining there as minister for six years. In 1913 he came to York and accepted the presidency of York

College, remaiuing at the head of this institution until elected to congress in 1918. He served during his last two years' connection with York College without pay, for the war was then in progress and he made this contrihution to the educational development of the community.

On the 4th of August, 1897, Mr. McLaughlin was married to Miss Elma Pierson, who was born in Illinois, a daughter of Justin and Elizabeth (Bedell) Pierson, wdio removed to Lancaster county in early life and there now make their home. The father is a farmer, having always given his attention to the tilling of the soil. To Mr. and Mrs. McLaughlin have been born four children : Esther, who is attending the Colonial School for Girls in Washington, D. C. ; Ruth, also in school in Washington; John Hale, five years of age; and Paul P., a little lad of two summers.

Both Mr. and Mrs. McLaughlin are members of the United Brethren church and he is a Knights Templar Mason and member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He devotes his entire time at the present to his congressional duties and in the fall of 1920 was reelected by a majority of fourteen thousand. He has always been active in politics but never sought office until a candidate for congress and during his first term made a splendid record, being a most forcible, earnest and convincing speaker and actuated at all times by patriotic devotion to duty.

Marion King

Another man of York county who may lay claim to the proud American title of self-made man is Marion King who since 1914 has been superintendent of the poor farm. He is a native son of Iowa, born in Clarke county on the 17th of September, 1869, a son of T. J. and Mary P. (Majors) King. Both parents were born in Kentucky and were married in Illinois to which state they had come with their parents in early youth. The father engaged in farming and in 1888 removed to Nebraska and farmed in Saline county for some time. He has a farm in Kansas but for the most part lives with his son in York county. The mother passed away in October, 1909. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. King five children were born, four of whom are living: J. W., who resides in Louisiana and is engaged in the horse and mule business; Oliver, who works for the Burlington railroad and lives in Iowa; Marion, the subject of this review; and Malinda, the wife of Otis Derry, a farmer in Kansas. The King family were reared in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. King gives his allegiance to the democratic party.

In the acquirement of his education Marion King attended the country schools of his native county and in due time was graduated from the Osceola liigh school. After putting his textbooks aside he engaged in farming, which occupation he has followed for the greater part of his life. In 1909 he came to York county and engaged in the grain business at Houston and Thayer, continuing in this successful venture for a period of eight years. In 1914 he was made superintendent of the poor farm and to this work he devotes his entire time. He has considerable land in Texas and Louisiana and is financially independent.

sen, a native of Canada and a daughter of Henry Farquharsen. Her father was born in Scotland, emigrated to this country in an early day and was one of the pioneer farmers of Saline county. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. King two children have been born : Lena, the wife of Robert McDonald who is in the restaurant business in York; and Georgia, a stenographer in York. The King family are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mrs. King and the youngest daughter are prominent in the affairs of that organization.

Since age conferred upon Mr. King the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the democratic party and is well versed on all of the questions and issues of the day. Fraternally he is junior warden of the A. F. & A. M. and he has passed through all the chairs in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is likewise a Modern Woodman. Mr. King's life has been an active, busy, and useful one and he enjoys to the fullest extent the confidence and good will of those with whom he comes in contact.

James E. Hart

James E. Hart of Lincoln, who is secretary of the department of trade and commerce and chief of the bureau of banking of the state, received his appointment from Gov. McKelvey, and in 1919 resigned his position as president of the City National Bank of York to take up this work. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1864, a son of John D. and Nancy (Lowery) Hart, both natives of that state. The father engaged in farming, and lived and died on the farm where his birth occurred. He was born in 1818 and died at the advanced age of seventy-five years. Mrs. Hart was born in 1823 and passed away in 1907. They were members of the United Presbyterian church and always took an active part in the affairs of that organization. Seven children were born to this union, four of whom are living. James E., the subject of this sketch being the only one of the family residing in Nebraska. John D. Hart was a stanch supporter of the republican party, although he neither sought nor desired public office. He was a member of the state militia and during Lee's raid in Pennsylvania was called into active service. His father, or the grandfather of James E. Hart, came with his parents to the United States from Scotland and settled in Pennsylvania at an early day. He engaged in business there on reaching manhood and spent the balance of his life in Pennsylvania, becoming a prominent resident of the community in which he lived.

James E. Hart attended the public schools of Pennsylvania and in due time entered the State Normal School where he completed his education. For the three years following he taught school in Pennsylvania and in 1884 xemoved to Gage county, Nebraska, where he continued to teach for one term. He then discontinued teaching and accepted a clerkship in a store for a period of two years. At the termination of this time he removed to Gove, Kansas, and entered into the employ of the bank there as cashier. For three years he remained in that capacity, or until 1890, when he came to York county, hoping to improve his health which had been impaired by the close confinement of teaching. His experience as cashier in the Kansas bank stood him in good stead and as he was also a bookkeeper he soon obtained a like position at Gresham, where he located. He was one of the organ- izers of the bank originally known as the Farmers and Merchants Bank which was later merged into the First National Bank. For twenty-six years he was cashier of this bank, conducting his afl'airs to the entire satisfaction of the bank and its patrons. In 1916 he removed to York where he accepted the position of cashier in the City National Bank and on the death of Mr. Childs, who was president of this institution, succeeded to his position. He resigned, however, in June, 1919, to become secretary of the department of trade and commerce and chief of the bureau of banking, to which he had been appointed by Gov. McKelvey. Mr. Hart has forty people working under him in this state office and also has supervision over the bank department of the state, administration of the blue sky law and hail insurance. He is also custodian of about seven hundred thousands dollars in securities.

In 1891 Mr. Hart was united in marriage to Miss Louise Hoth, who was born near Crresham and whose father had acquired a homestead in York county. Two children have been born to this union, namely : Ellis B., who is employed at the Stock Yards National Bank in Denver; and Esther L., who is an employe of the First National Trust Company at Lincoln.

Mr. Hart is a member of the republican party and has never been very active in politics. His present position is the only public position to which he has ever been appointed, but he was elected to the State legislature from York county in 1907, serving one term. He is a member of tlie Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and a past master of the order. He is also a member of the Odd Fellows, has been through all tlic chairs of the order and has represented both orders in the Grand Lodge. Mr. Hart is a member of the Presbyterian church and his wife is a member of the Christian Science church. Mr. Hart is recognized as a man of sterling character and his activity has made him a leading citizen of Lincoln where the intelligent direction of his labors has wrought good results in both the attainment of individual success and the advancement of public welfare.

Rev. Thomas Cullen

For thirty years Rev. Thomas Cullen has with zeal and earnestness devoted himself to the work of upbuilding St. Joseph's church at York. He assumed his present pastorate on the 5th of November, 1890, and through the intervening period has worked most zealously, endearing himself to the people and accomplishing great good among his parishioners. A native of Ireland he was born in Camderry, Glenfarm, in County Leitrim, Ireland, on the 9th of August, 1855, his parents being Michael and Katherine (McDermott) Cullen, both of whom were natives of the same county and there remained until called to their final rest. The father, who was a successful farmer, passed away in 1892 while the mother survived until 1915. They were married in 1853 and became the parents of five children, three of whom are living: Eev. Thomas Cullen, of this review; Mrs. John Gallaher, who resides in Ireland ; and Mrs. Sarah Ann McGowan, who makes her home at Manor Hamilton in Ireland.

In the acquirement of his education Father Cullen attended the St. Patrick College at Cavan. Ireland, and in 1884, having qualified for the priesthood, was ordained at Quebec, Canada. His first charge was at Fremont, Nebraska, and from there he went to O'Neill where he remained for seven months. The first mission of which he had charge was at McCook, his labors there continuing for five years and eight months. On the otli of November, 1890, Father Cullen came to York, having been assigned to the pastorate of St. Joseph's church, in which he has since continued. Under his guidance and leadership the church has steadily grown and its membership now numbers one hundred and fifty families. The convent and school are continually progressing under his supervision and he has reason to be proud of their high standing in the community. Rev. Mr. Cullen is also the chaplain of the Knights of Columbus council in the work of which he takes active part.

While maintaining an independent attitude in politics, he is perhaps more in sympathy with republican principles and he regards it as the duty of a publicspirited citizen to keep well informed on the questions and issues of the day and to support his convictions at the polls. With singleness of purpose he has devoted his life to the service of the church and he is a man of resolute will who never falls short of the accomplishment of any task to which he sets himself. Those who know Father Cullen - and he has a wide acquaintance - entertain for him the highest regard and his fellow townsmen are proud to be numbered among his friends. A testimonial of the regard of his parishioners was tendered him on the 5th of November, 1930, at the close of a pastorate of thirty years, when a banquet was held in his honor and he was presented with a fine gold-headed cane in token of the esteem entertained for him. One of the local papers on that occasion said : "When Father Cullen came to this pastorate the new church was just begun. Under his fostering care the membership has increased in number until now it is one of the best parishes in the Lincoln diocese. Father Cullen by his gentle demeanor, his unostentatious adherence to the faith, and his example in right thov;ght and living, has won the love and confidence of his flock and the sincere respect of the entire community." In the addresses made on that occasion many words of praise and of hearty appreciation were spoken by yoiing men and old, some of whom he had bajitizeil into the church and who had grown to manhood under his spiritual guidance. Throughout his connection with the church at York Father Cullen has taken but one real vacation and that when he spent a few months at his old home in Ireland with his loved mother, who has since passed away. Returning, he resumed his duties and the York Catholic church has certainly prospered under his guidance. An attractive meal, beautiful music and rare flowers added to the joy of the occasion at the lianquet held in his honor and never to be forgotten were the words of sincere and heartfelt appreciation of his life and labors spoken by those with whom he has been so closely associated in spiritual work through long years.

Joseph A. Jacobs

Jose]ih A. Jacobs, real estate and insurance nmn of York, was born in Nemaha county, Kansas, on the 8th of September, 1873. His parents were Henry and Mariah (Kerns) Jacobs, the former born near St. Louis, Missouri, and the latter also a native of Missouri. Their marriage took place in Jefferson county, that state. W'lifU the Civil war brulve out Mr. Jacobs enlisted in the Eighth Mi.ssouri Regiment with which he served for one hundred days, at the terni- - ination of which time he re-eulisted in a Kansas regiment and served until the end of the war. He participated in several of the hard fought battles of the war but was never wounded. As a result of his exposure, however, he suffered from varicose veins and eventually this caused his death. For many years he followed the occupation of farmer but in 1897 sold his land in Kansas and removed to York where his death occurred in 1907. His widow survived him for twelve years, her death taking place on the 19th of December, 1919. Mr. Jacobs had been reared in the Lutheran faith and was a member of the United Brethren church of York,- as was his wife, although she was formerly a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church. They were the parents of five children: B. Frank, who is an attorney in Tacoma, Washington; Mrs. D. M. Edgarton who resides on a farm in Rulo; L. H., who is a farmer and dairyman of Kamilche, Washington; Joseph A., the subject of this sketch; and G. M., who is superintendent of agencies of the Northern Life Insurance Company at Seattle, Washington.

In the acquirement of an education Joseph A. Jacobs attended the Campbell University at Holton, Kansas, from which he was graduated in 1891:. He then taught school in Kansas for some time and in 1900 came to York to accept a position as teacher in the college. Subsequently he and his brother started a business college which they ran for one year, at the end of which time Joseph A. Jacobs sold out to his brother. He completed a law course at Pawnee City, Kansa.s, under Storey & Storey in 1908, but never applied for admission to the bar and has never practiced. His knowledge of law, how^ever, is a big factor in the real estate business in which he has been engaged since October, 1905, and he is known throughout the county as being always fair and honest in his dealings. In addition to his real estate business lie handles some fire insurance.

In March of the year 1896 Mr. Jacobs w-as united in marriage to Miss Sadie Rogers, who was a native of Pawnee county. Politically Mr. Jacobs has been a stanch supporter of the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and fraternally he is a Knight Templar, Thirty-second degree Mason and Shriner. He is also a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and both he and his wife are members of the Order of the Eastern Star. He was master of York Lodge in 1911. Although most of his time is devoted to the conduct of his business he is not unmindful of the social amenities of life and to that end is an active member of the York Country Club. The life of Mr. Jacobs has been commendable in every relation and he enjoys an enviable reputation in both the business and the social circles of his communitv.

J. E. Prest

J. E. Prest was a native of the Empire state, and was born at Andover, Allegany county, New York, February 19, 1849, a son of Richard and Harriet (Kemp) Prest, also natives of New York, who moved to Dodge county, Wisconsin, when their son was sixteen years old. Twenty-one years later they became residents of

J. E. Prest was reared in Xew York, Wisconsin and Minnesota where he was always associated with liis father, heing a very devoted son. After he married he and his wife made their home with his fatlier, and the fatlier and son purchased one hundred sixty acres of land in McFadden townsliip which they improved and cultivated.

December 23, l.sdi), in Martin county. Minnesota, Mr. Prest was married to Miss Clara B. Smith, the daughter of Jeremiah and Susannah (Seamen) Smith. The mother of Mrs. Prest died when the daughter was a child. The father went to Martin county, Minnesota, where he became a homesteader and where he spent nine years of his life, then returned to Pennsylvania.

Mr. and Mrs. Prest became the parents of the following children: Ruth, the wife of Alva Valentine, of Buffalo county, Nebraska; Harriet S., married Rev. M. E. Bollen, and resides in Walla Walla, Washington; J. E., a physician of Lushton, Nebraska; Edith, at home: Clara B., tlie wife of C. R. Davis, of Lincoln, Nebraska; Lura, assistant principal of schools at Ekalaka, ^lontana ; James R., married and farming the home place; and Percy J., at home.

Mr. Prest was a member of the Methodist church, having been converted and joined church at the age of eighteen. In politics he was a republican and served as a member of the school board of his district. His death occurred January 23, 1904, leaving to mourn his loss a devoted wife, his sorrowing children and many friends throughout the community.

George I. Myers

George I. Myers, a resident farmer of York county who is engaged in farming and stock raising, is a native son of the county, born July 17, 1882, a son of Riley and Melissa (Darling) Myers, the former a native of Indiana while the latter was born in Illinois. George Myers, grandfather of our subject, was the first of the family to settle in the county. He came here in 1871 accompanied by his son, Riley, and took a homestead claim of one hundred and sixty acres to which he had acquired a right through service in the Civil war, from which he was veteranized. The first house in which they lived was built of sod and they contrived to be satisfied with that accommodation until bett-er times arrived. At the period when George Myers settled in the county there was no house nor business place in York and all goods and household requirements had to be hauled from Seward and Central City. When making the journey into Nebraska he came overland with a team of horses and oxen, the other mcmliers of the family also nsing that method of transportation. During the grassho]iper plague he lost everything and was compelled to make a fresh start, whicli he did with cliaracteristic energy and in addition to the planting of crops set out large groves of trees and planted an orchard. He lived to see his efforts and ambitions brought to fruition and died honored and respected throughout the district, at the date of his passing being seventy-two years old.

schools of York coimty, the sehoolhouses in those days being built of sod and without any of the equipment of the present day for the instruction of pupils. After helping his father for a time he purchased a tract of land for his own cultivation and for several years carried on general farming and stock raising. He worked hard and met with a good measure of success in his agricultural operations. He reached prosperity through his own efforts and finally found himself in a position to retire, when he moved to Aurora where he died in 1916, being then in his sixty-eighth year. He was a member of the United Brethren church at Harmony and was one of the prime movers in having the church building erected. His wife is still living in Aui-ora, now aged sixty-seven years. They were the parents of the following children: James, of Arcadia, a farmer; John, of Bradshaw, foreman at the elevator; Verne, living in Waterloo, engaged in insurance: George I., on the old home farm; David, residing in Aurora; Earl, living in Hastings; Walter, a farmer, of York county ; Joseph, living in Broken Bow ; Charles, residing near Aurora ; Nettie, wife of C. M. Kelly of Scottsbluff, Nebraska : Sadie, wife of Harry Cox of Burwell ; and Virginia, wife of Balph Tivis of Aurora, Nebraska. Riley Myers gave his political support to the democratic party and in all community matters he took a practical interest.

George I. Myers was reared in his father's home and received his education in the public schools of York. He helped his father in the operations of the home farm and at the age of twenty-three started on his own account by renting land which he worked until 1917 when he bougiit his grandfathers old homestead farm. He now resides in a home erected on the site of the first house put up by his grandfather. He is successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising and feeding cattle for the market, in the latter line his produce finding a ready market and good prices. In all his business career he has shown ready adaptability and resourcefulness combined with energy and enterprise and whatever he has undertaken he has carried forward to successful completion, being regarded in his district as a worthy successor to his father and grandfather.

In 1904 Mr. iMyers was united in marriage to Minnie Bowers, born in York county, a daughter of George Bowers, a well known resident of the county. They are members of the United Brethren church and are liberal contributors to its upkeep. They are ever ready to endorse those plans and measures which tend to uplift the individual or uphold the betterment of the community at large. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and in politics votes an independent ticket. In addition to his activities on the farm he is also interested in the Farmers Elevator at Bradshaw and in the Farmers Co-operative Association at Bradshaw, in the business aifairs of which he takes a deep interest.

Isaac N. Van Alen

After a useful and well spent life Isaac N. Van Alen passed away on June 24, 1919, honored and respected by all who knew^ him. He was a native of the great Empire state, born in Buffalo, March 13, 1854, a son of Peter I. and Wilhelmina (Vandenburg) Van Alen, the former born in New York state and the latter a native of Holland, both of whom passed away many years ago.

Isaac N. Van Alen was educated in the schools of Buffalo and lived with his parents for some years thereafter. Later he removed to Michigan and there found employment as a shipping clerk with a railroad company, remaining in that line for two years. In 1883 he went to South Dakota and took a homestead near Oneida and on that holding proved up and farmed for some years. While living in South Dakota in 1886 he met and married Fannie L. Tagg, a native of Portland, Wisconsin, whose parents had moved to South Dakota some years before. Mr. Van Alen in addition to the demands of his own farm also superintended the work of the Tagg place for a time and continued thus engaged until 1889, when he and his family moved to York county and located in Waco. In the latter town he became connected with the elevator then operated by W. G. King with whom he remained for a time, next working in a grocery store and then going into the implement business with T. C. Tagg.

Having a desire to return to farm life Mr. Van Alen bought eighty acres of land near Waco and resumed farming, but the dry seasons of the early 90"s proved so disastrous to farmers in that neighborhood that he was compelled to relinquish the place. Later he rented land, finally giving up residence in the Waco district and moving to Gresham in 1909 where he bought twenty acres of land. On this holding he built a fine house, brought the place to a condition of excellent improvement and farmed for a while, raising a large quantity of alfalfa and engaging in the dairy business. He did not, however, live long to enjoy his new environment, as death called him on June 2-1, 1919. His' character was of a kind that contributed in marked measure to the substantial and moral development of the conimunity. He was an earnest memlier of the Presbyterian church and was liberal in his contributions to its upkeep. He gave his political support to the republican party but had never been a seeker after public office. Mr. Van Alen and his wife became the parents of two children : Ethel, who married W. W. Davidson, of Gresham; and Hazel, the wife of A. J. Wray, of Sioux City, Iowa, engaged in the implement business.

W. W. Davidson, deceased, was a son of William Davidson, was born in York county in 1889 and educated in the public schools of the county, after which he became a farmer. He was married at Gresham in 1913 to Ethel Van Alen and died on April 7, 1919. He spent his active life at general farming and gave special attention to the breeding of Polled Durham cattle. Two children were born to their union: Lloyd Van Alen and Willard Stanley, both living with their widowed mother at Gresham. Mr. Davidson voted the democratic ticket and was a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Eoyal Highlanders. He was a man of much promise who had made many and ardent friends by his uncompromising integrity and sincerity of purpose in all the relations of life.

Egbert E. Copsey

Eobert R. Copsey has been a ])rominent figure in financial circles in York for a number of years and his capability in recognizing and utilizing opportunities has been a strong feature in his growing success. He is one of York county's native sons, having been born here on the 20th of September, 1872, the sou of Edward D.

In the acquirement of his education Mr. Copsey attended the country schools of the county and having been duly prepared entered the Fremont Xormal College from which he was graduated. With the exception of the years in which he attended school he lived on a farm until he was nineteen years of age, at which time he started out into the world on his own account. He removed to York and for three years worked in the City National Bank, resigning that position to become county treasurer. He served in that capacity from 1906 to 1910 and then engaged in the real estate business for a short time. In 1911 he again entered the employ of a bank, becoming connected witli the First National Bank. He made steady advances in this connection and soon became vice president of the bank, a position which he now holds. He is also secretary of the First National Bank and is vice president and secretary of the First Trust Company. The financial interests of Mr. Copsey are not confined to York for he is vice president and director of the banks at Lushton and Thayer and is director of the First National Bank of Bradshaw and the Blue Eiver Bank at McCool. The prominence of Mr. Copsey in financial circles is made manifest by his connection with these various banks and the success which he now enjoys is the result of his own unaided effort.

On the 1st of October, 1895, Mr. Copsey was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Wangerien, a native of Cleveland, Ohio. Her father, A. Wangerien, removed from Ohio to Vining, Kansas, where he still resides, a well-to-do grain dealer and miller. Mr. and Mrs. Copsey have become the parents of two children : Ruth, who is a graduate of the York high school and is now a sophomore in the University of Nebraska; and Marion, who has attended York high school, St. Mary's school near Galesburg, Illinois, and the Forrest Grove school in Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Copsey and daughters are consistent members of the Congregational church and are active in its interests.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Copsey the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the republican party in the interests of which he has been very active. He has taken a deep interest in all civic questions and has served as a member of the city council. Fraternally he is a Mason, a Knight of Pythias, and a Knight Templar. The life of Mr. Copsey has been characterized by an orderly progression that has resulted from untiring efforts, indefatigable energy and close application. In all of his business affairs he seems readily to discriminate between the essential and the non-essential and discarding the latter so utilizes the former that he seems to accomplish at any point in his career the utmost possibilities for successful accomplishment at that point.

Charles E. Sandall

Among the ])romiuent lawyers of York county is Charles E. Sandall whose ability stands the practical test of the work of the courts and whose enviable reputation is based upon what he has actually accomplished. He is senior partner of the firm of Sandall & Wray and they have one of the largest and most lucrative practices in the county.

Charles E. Sandall was born on liis father's homestead three miles west of Yorkcounty on the 13th of January, 1876, a sou of Andrew L. and Matilda (Kalitf) Sandall, both natives of Sweden, the former coming to York county in 1871 and the latter coniinj;- with her parents in LST.'i. Jt was here that they met and were married, settling on the homestead acquired by Mr. Sandall which consisted of a section of well improved land. In 191'^ they removed to York and the following year Mr. Sandall retired from active business life. Three years after coming to York he suifered the loss of his wife whose death occurred in 1915. Mr. Sandall is now retired and living in York where one of his daughters keeps house for him. He is a ilev<iut mendier of the Lutheran cliurrh anil a republican in politics. He has served in the state legislature for two sessions and has also held different local and township offices. The father of Andrew L. Sandall was John Z. Sandall who was a farmer in Iowa and later removed to York county where his death occurred. The maternal grandfather of Charles E. Sandall, John Kaliff, settled in York county in the early days and homesteaded a farm of eighty acres on which he resided until his death. Charles E. Sandall is the second in a family of twelve children, all of whom are living but one: Eldora, the oldest member of the family, is the wife of Charles C. Moline, a farmer of York county; Charles E., the subject of this review ; Ida, the wife of E. A. Peterson, a merchant of Olds, Iowa ; Mabel, the wife of Oscar Olson, who is a merchant of Olds, Iowa ; Maggie, who married J. E. Peterson, a farmer of York county ; Robert F., a lawyer in Seattle, Washington; Martin H., who resides on the old homestead; Selma, wife of L. P. Reger, district agent for the Ancient Order of the United Workmen of Iowa; Adelia, the wife of F. A. Johnson, a farmer of York county ; Enda, married L. Morgan, a farmer and stock raiser of Olds, Iowa; Helen, at home with the father. John Chester Sandall, the youngest, entered the service of the United States in the World war in 1917 at Montgomery, Alabama, joining the Thirty-seventh division. He went overseas as the private secretary of General C. S. Farnsworth and died as results of the influenza on the 38th of October, 1918, at Bourbourg, France.

In the acquirement of an education Charles E. Sandall attended the country schools of York county and in due time attended tlie York College where he completed a four years" course. He decided on law as his chosen profession and attended the law department of the University of Michigan from whicli he was graduated in 1904. He began practice in York and has so continued. In the conducting of his profession Mr. Sandall has formed three ])artnerships, the first being with C. N. White, the second with J. W. Purinton, and the third with A. G. Wray. This last partnership was formed in 1911 with Mr. Sandall as the senior partner and has continued. They are both lawyers of ability and have built up a large and steady patronage due to their fair and honorable methods in the conduct of their cases.

Mr. Sandall was married in 190.5 to Miss Marie Romsdal, a native of York county and the daughter of John Romsdal, a ]>ioneer farmer of that county wdio is now retired and living in California. To the union of ilr. and Mrs. Sandall six children have been born: Mildred Marie, a junior in high school; Ruth Iline, a junior in high school; Esther Del, in school: Marion Elizabeth; Charles E. Jr.; and John Chester. The family are members of the Presbyterian church.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Sandall the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the republican party, in the interests of which he has been very active. He lias held several public offices, the first being the office of county attorney which he held for three terms. He then served as state senator for two terms and was appointed by tlie supreme court as a member of the preliminary survey committee for the state constitutional convention. He was a delegate-atlarge to the last republican convention, and though he has spent a great deal of his time in the interests of his party he has devoted the most of it to his chosen profession. He is the owner of a fine farm in York county and is a member of the Country Club. Mr. Sandall is admitted to practice in all courts, in the state, supreme and the federal courts, and as a result the firm of Sandall & Wray has one of the largest clientages in the county.