York County, Nebraska - Biographical sketches, 1921 (part 4 of 13)

William Dickson was educated in the common schools of Iowa and started his farming career in his native place. In 1878 he came to York county and became the owner of three hundred and forty acres of railroad land which was in a raw condition when he acquired it. He figured prominently in connection with the pioneer development of the county and is classed with those who aided in reclaiming this region for the purposes of civilization. In the early days of his residence he had to haul grain to Seward, usually returning with necessary supplies from the same point. He improved and develo]ted his half section of land and as his financial standing permitted he bought another quarter section, this latter holding being located near Holdrege. He made everything through his own efforts and may justly be termed a self-made num. William Dickson married Mary Troutman and they became the parents of seven diildren : Lela, the wife of Bert Tilbert, of Holdrege; Bertha, deceased; Hattie, wife of Dr. Frank Warner of Gresham; Ray, a farmer of Polk county; Claude, also farming in Polk county; George H.; and Earl, now attending school in Denver. Mr. William Dickson passed away in 1910, being then fifty-five years old. His widow is living in Denver and is in her sixtyfifth year. Members of the Lutheran church, they were always earnest adherents of its religious practices. While giving his political support to the republican party he never sought public office, preferring to devote his time and attention to his agricultural interests; nevertheless he always gave a good citizen's attention to all movements calculated to advance the welfare of the community in the development of which he played an active part.

George H. Dickson was reared on his father's homestead and early became acquainted with agricultural operations, fitting iiimself for the responsibilities which ultimately devolved upon him. He was educated in the public schools of the county and worked on the home farm, giving his father the benefit of his labors. He is now actively engaged in general farming and stock raising and during the period the place has been in his possession has made many e.xcellent improvements thereon, converting it into one of the model farm properties of the county. In 1913 he was married to Hazel Warner, a daughter of George E. Warner, a native of Pennsylvania, and to this union two children have been born: Lowell and Lyle, residing with their parents. George E. W^arner, father of Mrs. Dickson, was born in Pennsylvania in 1848 and married Rose B. Shrader, also a native of the Keystone state. He came to Nebraska in 1873, driving across the country to his destination, and settled in Polk county where he homesteaded eighty acres of land on which he put a sod house and later a frame shanty in which he lived for several years. He prospered as he proceeded with his farm work and bought more land as circumstances permitted, at the time of his death being the owner of five hundred and sixty acres of excellent land all well improved. He and his wife became the parents of eight children : Bertha, the wife of Herbert Richardson, of Polk county ; Dr. Frank Warner, living in Gresham; Eva, living at home; Hattie, married; Eay, a farmer of Polk county; Hazel, the wife of George H. Dickson; Glenn, a farmer living in Polk county; and Merle, at home. The parents were members of the Lutheran church and had a wide circle of friends in the community where many of their best years were spent. Mr. and Mrs. Dickson are members of the Lutheran church and he is a republican in political affiliation.

H. W. Fay

For fifty years II. W'. Fay, who is now Ijving retired at Bradshaw, has been identified with the agricultural growth and development of York county, and during that period has made wise use of his time, his talents and his opportunities, and in laboring to promote his individual interests has also advanced the welfare and progress of his district and the county at large. He was born at Port Huron, Michigan, October 5, 1844, a son of Hiram and Lucy (Chapin) Fay, the former a native of New York state and the latter of Massachusetts.

Hiram Fay was a builder and fontractor who migrated from Xew York to Michigan when he was twenty-one years old, going thence to Chicago in 1850 and there became engaged at his trade. In 1853 he went to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and resmned his occupation there, working for several years. Later he came to Nebraska, spending the remainder of his life in this state, his death occurring in 1883, being then seventy-four years old. His wife predeceased him in September, 1874, having reached her fifty-eighth year. He was a republican in politics and in religious belief was ai^iliated with the Methodist Episcopal church, to the faith of which his wife also was attached. They were the parents of seven children : Lucy, the wife of James Sisco, of Alliance, Nebraska ; Reuben A., living at Portland, Oregon; H. W., the subject of this sketch; Hiram, whose death occurred when eight years old; Claude, who died in his first year; Harlow L., who passed away, aged eighteen; and Alice, who died when eighteen months old.

H. W. Fay was educated in the common schools of Iowa, the schoolhouses at that time being constructed of logs and slab benches doing duty for the regulation desks of a more modern day. He lived with his parents until his twentieth year, nothing occurring in his young manhood worthy of note until he decided to enter the military service of the country. He enlisted at Belle Plaine, Iowa, in the Forty-seventh Iowa Infantry and was mustered into the Federal army at Davenport, that state, in June, 1864, his entire period of service being alxnit seventeen months. In October, 1864, Mr. Fay had a fortunate escape from being wounded, a memorandum book in his pocket causing a bullet to deflect without causing him any injury. He saw considerable activity while with the Federal army and was in many engagements and at the close of hostilities was mustered out, receiving an honorable discharge. In 1865 he returned to Iowa and started work on the railroad, being employed by the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Company, remaining in that line for four years.

About 1871 Mr. Fay migrated to Nebraska and settled in York county, making the overland journey from Iowa with the aid of a team of ponies. He took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in Henderson township and commenced without delay to break the sod and prepare it for tillage, at the end of a few years having twenty acres fit for cultivation. His first house was constructed out of poles and in this he had to live during the winter season. The barns were of sod and later he built a sod and log house for a residence. All freighting had to be done from Lincoln, over roads which at certain periods of the year were impassable. His agricultural operations turned out satisfactorily, notwithstanding the disadvantageous experiences entailed by visits from grasshoppers, hailstorms and chinchbugs. As he prospered he added many valuable improvements to the farm, on which he continued to reside until 1915 when he moved to Bradshaw and began buying and shipping produce. He still retains ownership in one hundred and sixty acres, all of which is in an excellent state of improvement.

On January 8, 1870, Mr. Fay was united in marriage to Frances E. Brown, a native of Iowa, and of that marriage tliere are seven children now living : Hiram W., who lives at Havelock, and who served for eighteen months with the First South Dakota Volunteers in the Philippines, and was wounded at the Block House No. 2; Cora E., the wife of Leroy Perine, who lives in New York City; Henry A., a ship carpenter; Clark D., who farms the home place; Maude M., the wife of P. 0. Ferree, of Hershey ; Gaynelle, a teacher in the Dundee schools at Omaha ;

Allen E., living at Ilershey, who served for eighteen months with Battery F, One Hundred Twenty-seventh Heavy Field Artillery, training at Camp Cody; Leonora, who died at the age of four; and Cornelius, who died in infancy. Mr. Fay has always voted for the republican cause and for years has been identified the Grand Army of the Republic and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He served the public as postmaster of Henderson for five years. lie is a man of sound business judgment, sagacious and far-sighted, and his well defined plans have always been carried to successful completion.

Henry Wellman

Henry Wellman arrived in the United States in 1870 a young man with little capital, and he is now living in Waco, York county, having retired from active business affairs. H!is career was at the outset a struggle for existence, but since then he has steadily progressed and his record indicates clearly what may be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do. He was born in Germany, a son of George and Louise Wellman, also natives of that country.

Henry Wellman received his education under the excellent system prevailing in the schools of Gemiany and in 1870 he immigrated to this country, making the voyage on a steamship which took fourteen days to cross the Atlantic. In that year he came to Nebraska and settled in York county, which then was in a state of infancy and was sparsely populated. He has seen the county when it had but a few frame buildings and one sod house in its entire area. He reached Nebraska City by train and there bought a team and wagon and completed the journey to York county, which took a week owing to his missing the road. He walked from Nebraska City, driving a couple of cows behind the wagon, and when he became of age in 1873 he filed on a liomestead, on which his first house was of the dugout type. Later he l)uilt a sod house with a dirt fioor and subsequently erected the biggest frame house in the township at that time, the lumber being hauled from Utica, Nebraska. He then plunged actively into the work of developing and improving tlie homestead, cultivating crops, planting (juantities of trees and setting out an orchard, which died in later years. Mr. Wellman was getting along splendidly when the grasshoppers came and destroyed every growing thing on his place. He asserts that within two hours after the pests visited the farm a leaf could not be seen on the cornstalks, so complete was the destnu-tion. In time he recovered from the setback caused by the grasshoppers and by economy and industry was enabled to purchase more land and also bought a tract of land in Minnesota. From time to time he investeil in Ixildings in York county which he invariably disposed of at terms that left substantial profits. During his active connection with agricultural operations ho displayed a marked spirit of progress. He has ever been watchful of indications pointing to success and has never feared to venture where favoring opportunity has led the way.

In IST.'i Mr. Wellman was united in marriage to Augusta Bolgren, a native of W^isconsin, and they became the parents of the following children: Arthur, living in Waco; Rinehart, residing in Waco; Arnold, a farmer of Dodge, Nebraska; Laura, the wife of Paul Ivottke of Beaver township. Mrs. Augusta Wellman died in 1888, and some time later lie married Miss Clara Bolgren, a sister of his first wife, and they became the jsarents of six children: George, who farms in Minnesota; Herbert, living in Hebert, Nebraska ; Henry, who enlisted dnring the great war in the naval service, but being a carpenter was transferred to shiplniilding; Walter, who enlisted in the aviation service, served as a mechanic for two years; Elsie, the wife of Harry Lawver, of Waco; and Hilda, who lives at home. TJie second wife died in 1913.

Since moving to Waco to make his permanent home Mr. Wellman has built a well finished and comfortable house, modern in all respects, and here he enjoys the fruits of his early enterprise and persistent industry. He has always cast a consistent ballot for the republican party and has filled various public offices, among others having served on the county board for two terms and on the Beaver township school board for many years. He has been president of the German Mutual Fire Insurance Co. for twenty-nine years - its first and only president. So well do the people think of him that he is now filling the office of mayor of Waco, and in this position the interests of all the people are his first care, the same ripe intelligence and characteristic energy which marked his business affairs being also evident in discharging the duties of his public trust. In all his dealings he is thoroughly reliable as well as progressive and his word is considered as good as any bond solemnized by signature or seal.

Raymond L. Brott

Raymond L. Brott a prominent figure in the insurance circles in York, his native city, was born March 7, 1890. He was educated in the public schools passing through consecutive grades to his graduation from the high school, with the class of 1910. He then entered the employ of the American State Bank, at York, and was advanced to various positions in that institution until he resigned as assistant cashier. In 1918 he became district manager of the Franklin Life Insurance Company, of Springfield, Illinois, and has since built up an extensive business, having now twenty sub-agencies. His clientage has become a very important one and in a period of the first seven months of 1930 he wrote insurance to the amount of one million dollars. His close application, his systematic methods, his unfaltering energy and his laudable ambition liavc been the salient features in the attainment of his success.

On the 18th of September. 1913, Mr. Brott was married to Helen L. Kingsiey, a daughter of Jonathan C. Kingsiey, who was a captain in the Civil war and became one of the early residents of York, where for many years he figured prominently in financial circles as vice president of the First National Bank. Mr. and Mrs. Brott have one daughter, Patricia, who is five years old. Their religious faith is that of the Congregational church and ]\Ir. Brott is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, having taken the York Rite degree. He belongs to the KnigJits of Pythias Lodge, to the Rotary Club, to the Young Men's Christian Association, the Country Club, the Sons of Veterans, the Old Settlers Association and other organizations which indicate the nature of his interests and activities. He has served as secretary of the Knights of Pythias and Business Men's Association also of tlie Young Men's Christian Association, and at all times is an active worker iu support of any pi'ojeet \\-hich seems of lienefit to the conuuuuity in auy way. His political allegiance is given to the republican party but he has never been ambitious for oiEce, devoting his entire time to business, save where a leisure hour permits him to engage in a game of golf in which he and his father are much interested as well as in other clean outdoor sports. He is regarded as one of the alert and progressive business men to whom opportunity is ever a call to action. In 1920 the company which ^Ir. Brott represents saw fit to appoint him as their agent to place money on farm mortages, in his territory.

James D. Houston

Since 1917 James D. Houston, who was for many years a prominent farmer and stock raiser in York county, has resided in his home at 708 Burlington avenue, York. Mr. Houston is of Scotch descent having been born in Scotland on the 20tli of June, 1841, a son of Andrew and Emily (Ritchie) Houston, both natives of Scotland. In 1870 Andrew Houston and his family removed from their native country to the United States, locating in Columbia county, Wisconsin, where they resided until 1871, when they came to York county, settling in the Thayer precinct. There Mr. Houston homesteaded eighty acres, putting up a frame house the lumber for which was hauled from Lincoln. The father was getting too old to engage in active farming and in 1880 both he and his wife passed away, their deaths occurring within two weeks of each other. They had been caught in a sand storm some time previous and the dust settling on their lungs was the cause of their deaths. Andrew Houston was a very prominent man in his community and was one of the first county commissioners of York county. Needless to say a feeling of deep bereavement swept the community at his death.

James D. Houston was twenty-nine years of age when his parents removed to this county and upon his arrival here he also homesteaded eighty acres, engaging in farming on his own account. He broke his own land and the first frame house he erected upon his land was the second largest house of its kind in the county. The wood for his fuel he got from Lincoln creek, and he hauled his provisions from Seward and Fairmont. During the Easter blizzard of 1873 he was snowed in for three days and after the storm subsided it was necessary for him to dig his way out to his barn. During the grasshopper storms he managed to save some wheat, and it was not long before he was making a success in his agricultural pursuits. He began to increase his acreage and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of railroad land for which he paid five dollars an acre, with a ten-years limit in which to pay the total amount. He later bought eighty acres for which he paid ten dollars an acre and he was soon recognized as one of the most successful and progressive farmers in the county. At one time he owned four hundred acres of finely improved land and had two sets of improvements on this land. He suffered loss during the droughts of '93, '94, and '95, but he, soon recovered. When his son James became of age and wished to engage in farming Mr. Houston gave to him one hundred and sixty acres and to his son William one hundred and twenty acres.

In 1917 ]\Ir. liout^ton deciiled to retire from active farm life and lie removed to York and is now residiiii( in his home at 708 Burlington avenue.

The marriage of Mr. Houston occurred in England. His wife was Mary Lidington, a native of that country whose death occurred in 1920, at the age of eightythree years. Seven children were born to this union: James, a native of England, who is now farming in York county; William, whose birth occurred in England and who is engaged in farming in York county; Andrew, who was the first child to be baptized in York county by Rev. Mr. Morgan, and who is now engaged in dairy farming in Washington ; Ritchie, farming in Colorado ; George, whose death occurred in 1880; Kittie, the wife of Eugene Bemis of York; and John E. who is engaged in the mercantile business as well as farming in Idaho.

For eight years Mr. Houston has served on the county board and was chairman of this board for one year. He likewise served as county assessor two terms. The religious faith of Mr. Houston is that of the Episcopal church of which organization he is a consistant member.

Two sisters of Mr. Houston came to York county with liim. Mary Ann died in this county some years ago and Effie who was the wife of John Fatherly, is also deceased. Mrs. Fatherly owned and built a house on the west side of the square where the public market now stands, the front of which she used for a millinery store. The Houston family have played an important part in the development of York county. Mr. Houston has seen the country grow from a wild and uncultivated state into one having many large and busy communities and comfortable homes. He has led a life of diligence and industry and as the result of this close application to his agricultural affairs has become one of the most prosperous and highly respected men of his district.

William L. White

William L. White, an insurance man of York, was born in Connecticut August 1, 1859, and was an adopted son of Edward R. and Elmira C. (Franklin) White, both natives of Connecticut. The parents died when William L. White was but two years of age and he was adopted by his father's people, Edward R. and Elmira C. (Franklin) White, and removed with them to Illinois about 1867. His father by adoption was a prosperous farmer and cattle-man and the family were members of the Presbyterian church.

William L. White received his education in the public schools of Illinois, working on the farm in his spare time. He continued work on the farm until he reacJied the age of twenty-one years at which time he removed to York county and settled in York. He obtained a clerkship in a store and remained there for four years, at the termination of which time he went to Waco, bought an interest in the Farmers & Traders State Bank and remained there for thirteen years. Tiring of the banking business he sold his interest and returned to York where he took up insurance as his vocation. While in Waco he had written some insurance in the bank and so had had some practical experience in this venture. In a short time he had built up a large patronage and his business is steadily growing.

In 1888 Mr. White was united in marriage to Miss Laurali B. Xally, a native of Lafayette, Indiana. The mother of Mrs. White came to York county about 1881 and bought a half section of land near Waco. Her death occurred at the home of Mr. and Mrs. White in York in 1909. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. White four children have been born, namely: Edward, who has been special state agent of the Home Insurance Company for the last six or seven years; Agnes M., at home ; D. G., who has been in the navy for twelve years and was chief commissary steward on a transport traveling back and forth to France during the World war; and Hubert L., who has charge of the clothing department of the Middlebrooker Department Store. Both Edward and Hubert L. were in the service of the United States during the World war, the former having been in training camp in Arkansas and had just received his lieutenant's commission when the armistice was signed; and the latter was in the quartermaster's department and served in France for one year.

Politically Mr. White is a republican and has served on the York city council and the school board at Waco. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren church, which organization he serves as treasurer. Fraternally Mr. White is connected with the Masons and has obtained high rank in the order, belonging to the Knight Templar commandeiy and the Mystic Shrine. He is also a member of the Benovolent Protective Order of Elks and has held every chair with the exception of exalted ruler. He has always employed fair and honorable methods in his dealings and as a result has won the confidence and respect of his fellowmen.

George Hayworth

George Hayworth, now living retired at McCool Junction, was born in Davis county, North Carolina, April 14, 1846, the son of Riley and Priscilla (Chambers) Hayworth of North Carolina. His father spent some years farming in Virginia and Appanoose county, Iowa, and later in Indiana where he remained but a short time, returning to Iowa, where he passed away in 1895. The mother died in Indiana.

The boyhood of George Hayworth was spent on his father's farm, and wlien he grew to manhood he enlisted with Company G of the One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry and served in outpost duty in the vicinity of Bridgeport, Alabama, for one hundred days, when he was discharged. He re-enlisted with Company E of the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantiy, serving until the end of the war. He took part in the battles around Petersburg and on April ninth, the day General Lee surrendered, he was captured and was a prisoner for one day. After the war was over Mr. Hayworth sought a quiet and peaceful life, so he engaged in agricultural pursuits in Iowa. In August, 1871, he made a trip to York county, Nebraska, and was so well pleased with the prospects in that community that he moved there in the fall of that year with his wife and two children, coming by horse team with very little household goods in a wagon. He traded the horses for a yoke of oxen because they were easier to feed, as they could work with the native prairie grass as feed. Horses had to have grain. During the hardships of the memorable winter of 1871-3 they lived in a dugout on Indian Creek, and in the spring of that year took a soldier's homestead claim in the location known as the McFadden precinct. Here he broke forty acres of rough land the first year and raised enough corn to feed the stock. Their home was a fourteen by fourteen sod house, and their beds consisted of ash poles driven ia the walls and bound around by rope. A great deal of labor and perseverance were required to accomplish anything in those days, for the ox teams were slow and the journey to Fairmont or Crete to market and to Beaver Crossing to mill required more than a day.

On December 17, 1867, he was married to Mary Ford, who was born in Indiana, the daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Jordan) Ford, natives of Pennsylvania and Kentucky, respectively. To this union have been born twelve children : Louis S., of Frontier county, Nebraska, who has six children; Lucy E., the wife of Grant Spra}', who resides in Colorado, and is the mother of five children; Missouri, the wife of Jeff Stoker of York, Nebraska, who has five children; Flora, who is married to Court Glen, resides in York, Nebraska, and is the mother of four children; George and Charles who have passed away; Frances P., the wife of Frank Johnson, who has five children; Jacob; Alice, who is married to Ervin Waldren, resides in Phelpscounty,"; Nebraska, and has seven children; Amelia, who is married to Leon Waldren of York county and is the mother of five children; Thomas, who lives in Lincoln county, Nebraska, and has two children ; and Mary, who passed away. ^

Mr. Hayworth is a member of the John Brown Post, Grand Army of the Eepublie, at Exeter, Nebraska, and in politics is a republican. He always manifests an interest in the affairs of the conimunity and for seven years has been a member of the school board. Mr. Hayworth still gives his attention to the fences and repairs on his two hundred and forty acre farm, but for the most part his tinie is spent in his comfortable home in McCooI Junction where he and his wife reside. He is never negligent in the duties of citizenship but has always supported measures that have had to do with the upbuilding of his community, and has wisely directed his individual affairs, so that he is ranked with the successful men of the county.

A spirit of energy and enterprise has actuated Henry W. Brott at every point in his business career and gained for him prominence in the real estate and insurance circles of York. He was born in Appanoose county, Iowa, on the 17th of March, 1861, the son of George and Sarilda (Delay) Brott, both natives of Ohio. They removed to Iowa in their early childhood with their parents. George Brott owned a small eighty-acre farm in that state and engaged in its cultivation prior to the Civil war. On the outbreak of the war he enlisted and met his death at the battle of Marker Mill in Arkansas. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and a republican in politics. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Brott three children were born, namely : Eosetta E., who married J. W. Townsend of Y^'ork who retired from active business life in 1911, but' had for twenty-five years engaged

Henry W. Brett was reared by his maternal grandfather, Henry Delay, who was a local preacher of the Methodist church. Mr. Delay had charge of a church and Sunday school for many years of his life, and when he left his charge and removed to town the church and Sunday school soon faded into oblivion. Mr. Delay had been nearly blind for several years prior to his death which occurred at the advanced age of eighty years. Although he had never had a day in school Mr. Delay was particularly quick in mathematics and when anyone would state a proposition he could solve it without paper or pencil. It was amid such surroundings that Henry W. Brott spent his childhood, receiving the educational advantages offered in the country schools of the state. He was ever ambitious to increase his knowledge and this he did by reading and studying in his spare time. Until he was twenty-four years of age Henry Brott followed farming, and then learning the mason's trade he came to York in 1887 and began to contract in brick and plaster. In this venture he was so successful that he saved enough to build a home. This home he traded for a farm situated five miles from the town. For ten months he kept this farm, making over two thousand dollars out of the investment, and then returned to York where he bought another home. The success which he enjoyed from his first trade was perhaps the stepping stone to his present business, for since that time he has been buying and selling on an ever increasing scale. Tn 1900 he was elected sheriff of York county, in which office he proved so efficient that he was reelected to the office in 1902. In connection with his" general real estate business he has done some immigration land work, and has sold much land in Brown county. South Dakota. His entire time is devoted to his business and he has built up a large trade because of his fair and honorable dealings. Mr. Brott has been through the hard school of experience and is in every sense of the word a self-made man. When he started out in the business, world he had practically nothing and today he is worth over one hundred thousand dollars. He owns land in Brown county. South Dakota, some business buildings in York as well as residence property, and also ow-ns a fine piece of business jiroperty in Scottsbluff.

In 1885 Mr. Brott was united in marriage to Miss Rosa Sarver, a daughter of Jacob Sarver, who at one time had charge of the state poor farm in Kansas. It was while holding this position that he met and married his wife. He came to York county in the eighties, and his death occurred in April, 1893. After his death the widow made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Brott until she passed away in April, 1920. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Brott four children have been born: Elsie, the wife of George J. Dow-ney, a real estate dealer and insurance man of Scottsbluff; Raymond, who for ten years was connected with the American State Bank of York, five years of the time holding the position of assistant cashier, and 'who is now district agent for the Franklin Life Insurance Company of Springfield, Illinois, having charge of many sub-agencies; Edith, who is at home; and Marjorie, at home. Mr. and Mrs. Brott are faithful members of the Congregational church, and he is a Master Mason and a Royal Arch Mason. He has been a member of that fraternity for thirty-five years. Since age conferred upon Mr. Brott the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the republican party and the principles for which it stands. He has held the office of alderman of York and was a member of the school board for a number of vears. He is a director in the American State Bank and assisted in organizing the York Investment Company. He lias always taken an active part in the development of York and York connty and has given unselfishly of his time and money in the raising of funds to support various charities. He is a member of the Commercial Club and the Country Club and is an ardent devotee of all outdoor sports, particularly of golf, in which he excels.

For fourteen years Jerome C. McKinley has been residing in York county and in this time has built up an enviable reputation as a physician and surgeon. He is a native son of Ohio, born in that state on the 10th of October, 1861, in Fairfield county. His parents were James and Effie (Courtright) McKinley. the former born in Scotland, while the latter was a native of Fairfield county, Ohio. James McKinley came to Ohio with his parents when he was quite young and here he met and married his wife. He engaged for many years in farming but enjoyed a few years of retirement in Lithopolis. His death occurred at the age of sixty-nine years and Mrs. McKinley was called to another life at the age of forty-two years. Ten children were born to this union, four of whom are living: Mrs. Maggie Click who is a widow and resides in Lithopolis; J. Andrew, a retired cattle-man of Columbus, Ohio; J. F., a druggist of Leigh, Xebraska ; and Jerome C., the subject of this review. Mr. McKinley was always a stanch supporter of the democratic party, and both he and his wife were active in the Presbyterian church.

In the ac(iuirement of his education Dr. McKinley attended Central College near Columbus and Bleasantville, and in 1884 came to Dodge county where for one year he was engaged in teaching school. He then taught for two years in Colfax county and for three years in Dodge county, at the termination of which period of time he entered the medical college at Louisville, Kentucky, from which institution he was graduated in 1891. He immediately began the practice of his profession at Leigh, and after seven years removed to Humphrey where he practiced successfully for eight years. On the 1st of August, 1906, he came to York and here he has since resided, having a very prosperous and steadily increasing practice.

In 1888 Dr. McKinley was united in marriage to Miss Cathurine Westfall, who was a daughter of D. C. Westfall. Mr. Westfall resided on a homestead in Dodge county for a number of years, but in later life he and his wife removed to Dr. McKinley's liome where they died. To the union of Dr. and Mrs. McKinley four children have been born, two girls and two boys, namely: Effie L., the wife of Walter Bernd, secretary of the Wholesalers Association of Omaha ; Alfretta Susan, the wife of George N. Gibbs, an attorney at Xorth Platte; Cloyde Edwin of York, who travels for Armour & Com])any; and Harold Courtright, who is completing his last year at the University of Xebraska and is a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity.

Dr. and Mrs. McKinley are members of the Congregational chun-h and take an active part in all the various activities connected with that organization. He is a member of the democratic party and fraternally is a Mason and an Elk. ' For one year he has served the county as county health officer and has been county physician for three years. In connection with his professional duties Dr. McKinley is a member of the County, State, and American Medical Associations and has held the office of president of tlie county association. In order to keep abreast with the strides ever being made in the medical world Dr. McKinley has taken three post-graduate courses at the medical college in Chicago and lias also attended different clinics. Throughout York county he is known as a physician and surgeon of much ability, and although his practice is mostly a general one he makes the diseases of children a specialty.

Marcus E. Plaxk

Marcus E. Plank is now living retired in Bradshaw, but for a long period was actively identified with farming interests in this section of the state and through close application and unremitting energy won a substantial measure of success. He was born February 18, 1851, in Fulton county, Kew York, on a farm near Johnstown and the following year his parents moved to DeKalb county, Illinois, where he was reared on a farm. He began his educational course in the common schools of that state and finished in the high schools, retiring from school well equipped with the essentials of a sound education. He remained in the family home helping in the work of the farm until he was twenty-two years old, when he began to work out on farms by the month and continued this for three years, although wages at that period were not very tempting. When he was twenty-five he returned to New York state and for five years taught school during the winter and summer terms, between times working on a fann. ilr. Plank was conductor on a street car in 1873-74.

On November 28, 1878, Mr. Plank was united in marriage to Ida Shaffer, a native of New York state who was educated in the public schools of that state. some years before her marriage she taught school, the system at that time being to board around with the families whose children were being taught. Mr. Plank taught school for one term after his marriage and then turned his attention to farming in New York state where he remained for a while and later returned to DeKalb county, Illinois, where he resumed farming on his father's place and cultivated that holding until March, 1887. Mr. Plank then came to York county and purchased two hundred acres of land for which he paid five thousand dollars. When he moved onto the farm there was a small frame house and a small barn already erected and after a time these were discarded and sub.stantial buildings substituted, the improvements consisting of a modem house and outbuildings in keeping with the demands of the times. From the date of settling down to the work of his farm his efforts were crowned with a well deserved measure of success. He applied himself to general fanning and to the breeding of registered Shorthorn cattle and registered Poland China hogs, his produce in these lines netting him handsome returns. Industry and perseverance, guided by keen intelligence, have been the basis of his success, and he can look back over the past without regret. In 1911 Mr. Plank felt that he had earned a rest from the strenuous life and he bought a home in Bradshaw where he has since been living retired surrounded by every comfort and cnnvcnience, rewards to which his years of toil fully entitle him.

To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Plank two children were born : Xeal, born in Simmonsville, New York, January 8, 1880, and now in Montana where he practices as a veterinary surgeon. He was a graduate of Kansas City Veterinary College and during the World war he was stock inspector for the American government and so continues; Nancy, the second child, became the wife of Carl E. Nicholson and is living on the old home place. They are the parents of three children : Irene, born July 20, 1909; Madeline, born October 27, 1916; and Neil Edward, born November 26, 1920. In politics Mr. Plank gives his support to the democratic party and holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and in the Modem Woodmen of America. At the presidential election of 1920 Mrs. Plank cast her first vote for the candidate of her choice and appreciates the duties which the franchise confers upon women. She is an earnest member of the Christian church of Bradshaw, and like her husband enjoys the respect and good will of those with whom she has been brought in contact.

Casper George Thamer

Casper George Thamer is now living retired in York. For many years he was closely connected with agricultural interests and through the careful conduct of his business aflairs acquired a competence that now enables him to rest in large degree from business cares and labors. He was born in Kurhessen Castle, Germany, on the 27th of April, 1836, a son of John and Catherine (Goembel) Thamer. The father was a weaver by trade.

Casper G. Thamer learned the weaver's trade from liis father and in 1856 came to Canada, settling in Waterloo. The trip to America was made in an old sailing vessel and seven weeks were passed in the crossing. For some time in the old country he engaged in damask weaving. In 1859 he went to Illinois, settling in Peoria. He there engaged in farming, working out among the various farmers, his wages being but ten dollars a month. Subsequently he removed to Tazewell county where he worked on a farm until the outbreak of the Civil war when he enlisted in Co. B, Forty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with w'hich he served for three years and two months. During his entire service Mr. Thamer never had a furlough. He was on duty on the Mississippi, participated in the battle of Corinth where he lost a number of comrades, and was in the many engagements taking place around the Red river. He was wounded in the wrist at the battle of Lake Shico and received his discharge in October, 1864, at Springfield. He remained in that state where he rented land on which he raised hogs, selling them for two dollars per hundred. While living in Illinois liis marriage occurred and he continued to farm as a tenant in that state for nineteen years. In 1883 he removed to Nebraska and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Lockridge township for the sum of twenty-five dollars per acre, also including the crop for that year. The only improvements on the place were a frame house and a slab barn. He immediately set about to put the land in high cultivation and some time later purchased another one hundred and sixty acre tract. He is now in possession of a half section of the finest land in the county. He set out an orchard on his place but it was destroyed by hail storms. He then devoted his time to general

In July, 1865, in Illinois, Mr. Thamer was united in marriage to Miss ilargaret J. MeCloud whose death occurred on August 11, 1913, at the advanced age of seventy-five years. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Thamer: John C'., who is residing in York, and William G., who is his twin ; Flora E., the wife of Sam Mapps of York: JIary E., living at home; Trennie L., the wife of Lewis Rothman of York; Ida J., the widow of X. G. Brown of Hastings; George H., an osteopath residing in Stamford, Connecticut; Charles 0., farming in York county; Margaret E., who is engaged in nursing at Hastings: and Telua Jf.. the wife of Ed A. Garvin of Chester. Mrs. Thamer was a consistent member of the Fnited Brethren church.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Thamer the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the republican party and is well versed on all questions and issues of the day. He served for some time as tax collector in Illinois and also held the same position in Loekridge township, and he was at one time sent as a delegate to a state republican convention. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal chirrch. Mr. Thamer is likewise a member of Post No. 33, G. A. R., in which organization he has held ofiicial positions. He has always been active in the development and improvement of the community in which he resides and is a highly respected nnd honored citizen of York.

Wilhelm Heiden

Wilhelm Heiden is widely and favorably known as one of the worthy pioneer farmers of York county where he owns a valuable farm property from which lie derives a gratifying income. He has been actively indentifi.ed with the agricultural interests of the county for fifty years. He is a native of Germany, born in that country November 19, 1848, and there received his early education.

In 1865 when he was seventeen years old Mr. Heiden immigrated to America, making the ocean voyage on a sailing vessel which occupied five weeks in the crossing. On his arrival at New York he went through to the state of Iowa and there worked on farms by the month, doing that kind of work for two years during which he acquired a good knowledge of agricultural operations and thus fitted himself to work a place of his own at a later date. In 1867 he migrated to Nebraska City, finding work in a brewery at which he continued for a time. When the first state capitol was being built at Lincoln Mr. Heiden assisted in its construction, doing the w-ork of a laboror and remaining until the job was finished. He was one of the first settlers in York county and has therefore witnessed the greater part of its growth and development. He took eighty acres of land in Thayer township where he built himself a dugout of two rooms, which he continued to cn-cupy until he moved to his present place. He is now the owner of two hundred and forty acres of prime land and has been giving his undivideil attention to stock raising and general farming. By steady application and industry he surmounted all the initial difficulties in the ]iatli of the pioneer, and today he is

Mr. Heiden was united in marriage to Carolina Reitz and they have become the parents of nine children, five sons and four daughters. He votes with the republican party but has never been an aspirant for otfice. His religious atfilation is with the Lutheran church, in tlie faith of which he was reared and to whose tenets he rigidly holds. He has many friends who entertain the warmest esteem for him.

Asa B. Bennett

Asa B. Bennett who died in 1!)11 in York county was one of the representative residents of the county and a self-made man who in his farming career steadily progressed. He was born in Clark county, Indiana, January 14, 1.S13, a son of Thomas H. and Rachael (Prather) Bennett, also natives of the Hoosier state, where they lived for several years and later went to Illinois and there spent the remainder of their lives. They were earnest, conscientious people and left the impress of excellent qualities on all the duties which fell to their lot.

Asa B. Bennett was educated in the schools of Indiana and accompanied his parents to Illinois and lived in that state until his thirty-fourth year. In 1876 he decided to try his fortunes in Nebraska and settled in York county. In 1875 he had purchased a quarter section of land, upon which he built a soil house with board floors and board roof, these additions being in advance of the usual start made by the early settler. The board roof had sod on the outside and the walls were composed of plaster made of alkali clay and lime, while the bottom wall was three feet thick, and in this abode Mr Bennett lived for thirteen years. Later he built a frame house wdiich was the equal of any in the district and was subst.mtial in every respect. The first stage of his journey to his farm was made from Illinois to Seward and from the latter place he went liy team to York county. It was from Seward also that supplies had to be hauled.

When Mr. Bennett had taken up his residence on the land he commenced without delay to get it into a state of cultivation and presently had a large part of it under tillage. He progressed nicely and the resultant crops yielded good returns, notwithstanding the distance to markets and other disadvantages inseparable from circumstances of the county in its formative stage. He carried out some valuable improvements, including the planting of trees and setting out of an orchard, and brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and demonstrated the possibility of producing fine crops in this section of the state. But his efforts were hampered when the grasshoppers destroyed every vestige of vegetation and left the fields barren. And again during the dry seasons of 1893-94 the work of the farmer was seriously harassed and nothing was produced ^ in those years. Attempts at economy included the burning of weeds and cornstalks as substitutes for fuel. An occasional roving band of Indians might be seen in the spring and fall of each year, but the settlers were never molested.

On January 24, 1867, Mr. Bennett. was united in marriage to Kate Davidson, a native of Pennsylvania, and they became the parents of the following children: Flora, the wife of William Perry of York; Eugene, a farmer of Scottsbluff,

Nebraska; John, who lives in Chase county, Nebraska; Ida M., the wife of Frank Stevens of Julesbiirg, Colorado; Charles E., who died in 1902; and William, w-hose death occurred in 1888. Mr. Bennett was an earnest member of the Methodist Protestant church, to the upkeep of which he was a liberal contributor. He was an independent voter and was affiliated with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Following his retirement from the farm in 1901 he moved to Waco and there spent the nest ten years of his life - a life which at all times was marked by uncompromising honesty. At the date of his death, July 27, 1911, many expressions of sincere sympathy found their way to his widow and other members of his family. His passing was regarded as a distinct loss to the community and those who knew him well still cherish his memory.

Herman Behling

Though more than a decade has passed away since Herman Behling was called to his final rest he is yet remembered by many of York's citizens as a most substantial and progressive business man and one who at all times commanded the respect, confidence and esteem of those who knew him. He was born in Watertown, Wisconsin, November 30, 1844, and died on the 13th of February, 1909. His parents were Herman and Caroline Behling, who settled at Watertown at a very early day, the father there engaging in the furniture business. The son was educated in the schools of Watertown and turned his attention to the dry goods business in connection with George Crawford of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. In the "GOs he removed westward to York county, Nebraska, and homesteaded land. He also opened a general store at North York and was one of the oldest merchants of the city. He afterward removed to the present city of York, where he continued in merchandising as a dealer in clothing, remaining active in the business to the time of his death.

January 19, 1887, Mr. Behling was united in marriage to Miss Ida Ganzer, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, a daughter of Matthew and Caroline (Arnold) Ganzer, who were early residents of Wisconsin where the father engaged extensively in vinegar manufacturing. Both he and his wife there passed away. They were parents of four sons and tliree daughters, of whom five -are yet living: Mrs. Brauer, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Mrs. Maria Uonumn. also of Oshkosh: Lewis, who is living in the same city, where he is a mill man : Edward, a wood buyer of Oshkosh : and Mrs. Behling. The parents were members of the Lutheran chui-cli, while the children have become members of the Episcopal church. In his political views Mr. Ganzer was a democrat and fraternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Oihl Fellows and the Sons of Herman.

To Mr. and Mrs. Behling were born three children: Carl F., who is an automobile dealer of Long Beach. California; Eda. the wife of E. U. Gunzel, who is a merchant in Lincoln; and Lena, who is a graihiate of Notre Dame College of Indiana.

]Mr. and ilrs. Behling were members of the Episcopal church and he was a Scottish Rite Mason and member of the Mystic Shrine. In fact he was very active in Masonic circles and his funeral services were conducted by his lircthren of tlie order. He likewise lieloiiged to tlie Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he was a democrat but never an office seeker. He started out in the business world with a small general store in Xorth York and for some time devoted his attention exclusively to the clothing trade, Iniilding up an extensive business. He was county treasurer of York county for two years, and owned considerable farm lands, buying at different times. His success was entirely due to his enterprise, energy and ability and he left his family in comfortable financial circumstances notwithstanding the fact that during the last seven years of his life he suffered from paralysis. He was a well educated man who read extensively and was a most interesting talker. His widow and daughter now occupy a beautiful home in York and are well known socially throughout the city.

Eev. Heinrich D. Epp

The statement that prosperity is the dtitcoiiTe o^'persistent cifort and indefatigable industiy combined with close applicaliqijj fiijds verification in the life record of Rev. Heinrich D. Epp, a well known educator' of Henderson township, York county. He is a native son of this township and,, county, born October 12, 1882, a son of H. H. and Helena (Peters) ''Epp, natives of southern Russia, who came to America in 1874. Four years later the mother came and they settled in York county, where she and her husband are still -lining, well known and respected citizens. To their marriage eleven children were born, eight of whom are living.

Heinrich D. Epp was reared in the home of his parents and secured his preliminary education in the common schools of York county. He later entered Bethel College, at Xewton, Kansas, and was graduated from that institution in 190.5, following which he taught school for three years, during this period proving his fitness for the instruction of youth in educational matters. With the view to better equipping himself for carrying on his professional career ili'. Kpp entered the State University of Kebraska, there taking a two-year course and emerging master of all educational requirements. He then resumed teaching school at Henderson, in which occupation he is now actively engaged, bringing to bear u]joii the conduct of his exacting <lutics a ripe experience and practical methods, coupled with a resourceful and tactful disposition, the wdiole tending in no small degiee to promote the welfare of the community at large. He also is an assistant minister in the services of the Bethesda cliurch at Henderson. He is the owner of a fine farm of eighty acres adjoining Henderson, the place being well improved and successfully operated under his supervision. His life is an example worthy the emulation of every young man.

In 1910 Mr. Epp was united in marriage to Miss Fllizaheth Riehert, a native of McPherson county, Kansas, and a daughter of H. and Helena (Unruh) Riehert, both of whom were born in southern Russia and immigrated to America in 1874, settling in Kansas, where the father died in 1895 and where tlie mother is still living. Mr. Unruh was twice married and was the father of fourteen children. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. p]i)p two children have been born : Dorothea Helena, born March 11, 1913, and Karl Heinrich, born February 13, 1919. Mr. Epp gives his political support to the republican party but has never sought public office.

preferring to devote his time to the demands of his school and to his other undertakings. He serves as a director on the Henderson school board, his experience and sound judgment being of especial value to that body in the conduct of its affairs. Mr. Epp and his wife manifest a praiseworthy interest in the social and cultural movements of their town and district and are always to be found assisting those projects designed to advance the welfare and happiness of the community.

Charles E. Callender

Charles E. Callender has been a resident of Nebraska for the last forty years, and is therefore numbered among the pioneers. He was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, his parents being Newell and Harriet (Ferris) Callender, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, where the former spent many useful years as an active minister of the Baptist church. Rev. Mr. Callender was an abolitionist, later a prohibitionist, and always a stanch supporter of the republican party. 'He died in 1910 at the age of eighty-nine years, and his wife died in 1901 at the age of seventy-eight. They were the parents of ten children, only three of whom are now living: Dr. J. M. Callender, a physician of forty-five years' experience in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Nebraska, now living in Kansas; C. E. Callender, the subject of this sketch ; and Nathan Callender, a market gardener living near Scranton, Pennsylvania. The two oldest sons, Samuel N. and Dr. J. M., served in the Civil war.

After attending the public schools of Pennsylvania Charles E. Callender entered the Waverly Normal School of the same state, from which institution he was graduated in 1874. After finishing his education he taught school in Pennsylvania and later in Illinois. In 1879 he was married to Miss Emily S. Snyder of Waverly, Pennsylvania, whose ancestors were .also pioneers in northeastern Pennsylvania where they were prominent in religious and social work.

In the fall of 1879 Mr. Callender came with his wife to Nebraska where he engaged in the mercantile business in Webster county. Later he was in business in Fillmore county where he lived for five years before removing to tiie northwestern part of the state where he acquired a ranch. He took a prominent part in the organization of Thomas county where he became the first county clerk. He had studied law and in 1890 was admitted to the bar, subsequently becoming county attorney. In 1905 he sold the ranch and removed to York where for more than thirteen years he has been engaged in the real estate business, a line of work for which his knowledge of the west and of legal usage has especially fitted him. He has confined his attention mostly to the emigration business, and has handled land in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, western Nebraska, and eastern Colorado.

Mr. and Mrs. Callender have two daughters, Edith M. and Ruth E., both of whom were graduated from York high school with first honors in their respective classes. Both are graduates of York College where they received the Bachelor of Arts degree. Edith M. has had post-graduate work in the L^niversity of Nebraska and in the L^niversity of Chicago, and is now Principal of York College Academy, where she is instructor in English. Ruth E. has had post-graduate work in the University of Nebraska and is now teaching geometry in York high school

The Callender family are all members of the Baptist church and Mr. Callender is a member of the Royal Highlanders and of the Modern Woodmen, which organization he serves as clerk. In politics he has always been a republican. He now holds the office of city treasurer, in which capacity he has shown himself to be both reliable and efficient. In his long residence in Nebraska he has had opportunity to watch the steady growth and increasing prosperity of the state and has always contributed his influence to clean politics and good citizenship. His active disposition will not allow him to retire as long as he is able to work, and his work has always been such as to command the respect and esteem of all who know him.

Samuel A. Tobey

Samuel A. Tobey, the popular and efficient postmaster of Gresham, formerly connected with the operation of farm land and with the management of a grain elevator, and who has witnessed the growth and development of the town since it was organized in 1887, is a native of Whiteside county, Jllinois, born May 31, 1861, a son of George A. and Sylvania B. (Barney) Tobey, both natives of New England, where the father learned the blacksmith's trade.

About 1857 George A. Tobey left Rhode Island and crossed tlie country to Illinois, settling in the town of Erie and resuming his occupation of blacksmithing. Sometime later he moved to Cedar county, Iowa, and there followed his trade for four years, at the end of that period going to Boone county, where he conducted a hotel for five years. In 1874 he an-ived in Butler county, Nebraska, making the journey from Iowa by horse team, and crossing the Missouri river on a ferry boat, the entire trip occupying about three weeks. He took a homestead in Butler county and built a two room sod house with board roof, constructing a cellar under the house and a barn of the dugout variety. All the hauling had to be done from Seward and Columbus and in the winter season, owing to the condition of the roads, it was practically impossible to obtain supplies from these points. Mr. Tobey broke the land on his homestead of eighty acres and set out the fields to the cultivation of crops, but the grasshoppers destroyed almost everything on the land but a small quantity of growing w'heat. Hte recovered from the effects of the disaster and applied himself with renewed vigor to the work of the homestead, which he gradually improved and developed and brought to an excellent state of cultivation, and there he remained until his death at the age of seventy-eight. His wife died in 1895, being then in her sixty-fifth year. .Both were members of the Baptist church and their Christian lives gained them the respect of all who knew them. He gave his political support to the democratic party.

Samuel A. Tobey accompanied his parents to Nebraska but before he left Iowa he had been attending the schools of that state and continued his course in the common schools of Butler county, the term being about three months in each year. He assisted his father in the work of the farm and when he reached his twentyfourth year started farming on his own account by buying eighty acres of railroad land in Polk county for which he paid seven dollars an acre. He occupied this place for four years, during this time improving and cultivating the holding to advantage and then disposed of it at a substantial profit. In 1887 Mr. Tobey moved to Gresham Just as it was beginning to take on town-like form and for the ne.xt five years he worked in the grain elevator then owned by Lord & Spitts. Under the Cleveland administration in 1893 he was appointed postmaster of Gresham and in that office gave very general satisfaction. He then entered the .=ervice of the Updike Grain Elevator Company of Gresham, first as carpenter and then as manager, the entire period of his connection with the elevator being twentyone years. On January 5, 1916, President Wilson appointed him postmaster of Gresham and in this capacity he still continues, his fidelity and efficiency being beyond all question. He has not at any time held himself aloof from the everyday interests of life, but has been a factor in the development of Gresham along various lines.

In 1885 Mr. Tobey was united in marriage to Janet Davidson, a native of Canada, and to this union eight children have been born: Mary E., assistant postmaster at Gresham; Leota, at home; Grace, the wife of Fred Hoscheit, a farmer of Boyd county; G. Archie, a railroad man of Wyoming; Paul H., of Ulysses, Nebraska; Bessie, who is employed in Gresham; Lynn, who died at the age of eighteen; and Beynold A., at home. Mrs. Tobey is a regular attendant on the services of the Presbyterian church. He is identified with the Masonic order and the Ancient Order of United Worl-nnen. A democrat in policy and practice Mr. Tobey has filled various local offices apart from his present responsibility as postmaster and at all times has rendered e.xcellent and valuable service. His has been an active and useful life and one which, by its integrity and honor, has gained for him the respect and confidence of all with whom he has been brought into contact.

Wilhelm Gocke

In the period of pioneer development Wilhclm Gocke came to Nebraska. He was born in Hanover, Germany, June 22, 1843, and at the age of twenty-five years came to the United States. He made his way immediately to Nebraska and the first year of his arrival in this country was spent at the ranch of John Fouse, in Seward county. This ranch was at that time a well known stage station on the Nebraska city cutoff, and was located on a part of the Oregon trail, ilr. Gocke had heard many e.xciting tales of the .Indian massacres and he tells of an interesting incident that happened soon after his arrival at the Fouse ranch. One ilay on returning to the Fouse residence he found Mrs. Fou.se surrounded by twenty gesticulating Indians. On approaching the group he was questioned by one of the Indians in good English as to what he wanted. Mrs. Fouse then told him that there was no trouble, she was simply trading them groceries for what they might have in return, and that they were friendly. The following spring, in 1869, Mr. Gocke removed to York county and ac(|uired a homestead of eighty acres in section thirty-four, now Beaver town.ship. Here he built a log house, sixteen by sixteen feet, paying one hundred dollars for the logs, and th.en sent for his father, mother and brother in the old country. They soon -arrived in York county and each took an eighty acre homestead adjoining Mr. Gocke's. For some time they lived in the house oa Mr. Gocke's land, but when he was married he purchased some logs from Mr. Fouse and built himself another home. For five years he lived, cooked and slept all in one room. It was while he was residing there that the grasshoppers came. They made their first appearance one day at noon. Someone on looking out of the window renwrked that the flowers seemed to be drying up. Upon investigation great numbers of grasshoppers were found. The only method of conveyance Mr. Gocke had was his yoke of oxen, but in those early days they were thought to make good time. The nearest settlement to Mr. Gocke's homestead was at Milford, a distance of forty-two miles, and calling for a doctor there at one time Mr. Gocke made the trip between sun-up and sun-down, his oxen going along at a steady trot. Pie hauled his wheat to Lincoln, which was a three days trip, and sold it for from fifty to seventy cents a l)ushel. Mr. Gocke has many interesting experiences to tell of his early pioneer days. He is now making his home with his son, H. F., who is a prosperous farmer in West Blue township.

Mr. Gocke at an early age was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Schemft, a native of Germany. She was but a young girl when she came with her parents to York county. To this union five children were born, two of whom died in childhood. The living are: H. F., with whom his father lives; Gustav, who is residing in California; and Herman, residing in Grand Island. Mrs. Gocke died at the age of forty-one years, and some time later Mr. Gocke was united in marriage to a Mrs. Schwarting, whose death occurred six years ago.

Mr. Gocke has always given his allegiance to the republican party and is well versed on all questions and issues of the day. He is a consistent member of the Lutheran church. Not only has JMr. Gocke seen York county grow from a wild country with only a few wliite inhabitants to a rich agricultural country containing thousands of good liomes and scores of growing towns inhabited by industrious, prosperous, enlightened and progressive people, but he has participated in the slow, persistent work of development which was necessary to produce a change which is so complete that it has come to be popularly referred to as magical.

Since 1904 Frank G. Snyder has been a practicing physician of York, devoting the greater part of his time to surgery. He is recognized as one of the most able and efficient surgeons of the county and has a large and steadily increasing practice. His birth occurred in Carlinville, Illinois, June 16, 187.5, the son of Augustus C. and Belle (Teany) Snyder, the former born in Germany while the latter is a native of Illinois. The father came to the United States with his parents when but a baby, and he received his education in the public schools of this country. When he started out in the business world he located at Carlinville and there engaged in the hardware business for a few years. In 1883 he moved to York, engaged in the hardware business here and is still conducting his store at the age of seventy-one years. In politics he is a democrat and is a member of the Methodist church. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder are the parents of two children: Frank G. of this review, and Roy, who is in the hardware business with his father.

Dr. Frank G. Siij'der attended the public schools of York and graduated from York high school with the class of 1891. He then went to Northwestern University where he remained two years, subsequently entering the medical department, pursuing his studies there for two years. He then entered Barnes Medical College of St. Louis and was graduated with the degree of doctor of medicine in 1897. Dr. Snyder began his practice at Arborville and after spending two years there went to Chicago and took a post-graduate course. While on a visit to California he took an examination and practiced in Los Angeles during the year 1903. In 190-1 he returned to York county and resumed the practice of medicine at York where he has built up a large practice. Since locating in York Dr. Snyder has specialized in surgery and his reputation in this line is becoming widely known. He believes in keeping up with the trend of his profession and every year takes a course at one of the universities.

Dr. Snyder was married in 1905 to Miss Amy Haggard, whose death occurred in March, 1916. She was a native of Nebraska and a member of the Presbyterian church. In August, 1919, Dr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Edith Montgomery who was born in York county. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Politically Dr. Snyder is a democrat. He has served the county as health officer and is a member of the county and state medical societies, having served as president of the county association. He is also a member of the American Medical Association.

William P. Cookus

William P. Cookus, a prominent and representative business man of Lushton, York county, where he is engaged in conducting a hardware store and also acts as postmaster of the town, is a native of Iowa, born in Linn county, that state, April 8, 1857, a son of Joseph S. and Minerva (Doty) Cookus, the former bom in Pennsylvania and the latter in Ohio. They settled in Linn county, Iowa, in an early day and removed to Nebraska in 1874, both spending the remainder of their lives in this state. Joseph S. Cookus was a soldier in the Federal army and served throughout the Civil war. He saw much service and was in many engagements during the period of hostilities and at the close of the war, having served three years and six months, he was honorably discharged and returned to his family in lOwa.

William P. Cookus was reared in Iowa and educated in the common schools of that state. In his early youth he became engaged in the blacksmith trade and followed that occupation for twenty-two years, in the meantime saving his money with a view to going into business in another line. He then started in the hardware business in Lushton, Y'ork county, Nebraska, and has been successfully conducting a general hardware store ever since, well known to the people of the district as a conscientious and industrious citizen in whom all have unlimited confidence. He is also postmaster of Lushton and in that capacity is giving universal satisfaction, his courtesy and business qualities being always in evidence. Mr. Cookus has the honor of being the first man to build a house in Lushton in

1887 and he is now the owner of a comfortable residence. He has witnessed the growth of the town from the very commencement of its settlement and has played no small part in its development and npbnilding. He is regarded one of the representative citizens of Lushton, actuated by a spirit of enterprise and progress in all that he does. His business has been carefully managed and wisely conducted and his patronage has grown to extensive and gratifying proportions.

In 1880 Mr. Cookus was united in marriage to Miss Florence Billington, a native of Linn county, Iowa, and a daughter of Israel C. and Mary (Parsons) Billington, both of whom passed away some years ago. Mr. and Mrs. Cookus are the parents of six children: George, in Omaha; Pearl the wife of Charles Smith; Stephen, in Bladen, Nebraska; Clara, who lives at home; Alma, the wife of Martin Hebert; and Ruby, who lives with her parents. The family enjoys the high esteem and regard of a wide circle of friends and all are active in movements intended to advance the social and material progress of the community.

L. H. Rogers, after long years of connection with agricultural interests in York county is living retired at York. He was born in Casco, Cumberland county, Maine, on the 15th of January, 1841, a son of David and Susan (Harmon) Rogers, also natives of Maine. The father engaged in farming successfully for a number of years and for three years served as seaman. In 1852 he removed to Illinois where he purchased a fifty-five acre tract and engaged in general farming for the remainder of his life.

L. H. Rogers obtained his education in the country schools the school houses being of the primitive kind made of slab with home-made wooden benches. He began to work out on farms at an early day, receiving the sum of tliirteen dollars a month for his labors and later started farming on his own account on rented land. When his finances permitted he bought forty acres of land in La Salle county and engaged in general farming. He experienced the pioneer hardships of those days and remembers having seen large herds of deer throughout the county. In 1885 he came to Nebraska and settled in York county where he purchased a one hundred and sixty acre tract in Lockridge township. The improvements on the land consisted of a small frame house with orchard and the purchase price was thirty-five dollars per acre. Being successful in his agricultural pursuits he gradually increased his holdings by an additional four hundred acres. He also had two sets of good buildings. For many years he engaged in general fanning and feeding. He had many discouragements in his first years in York, his crops of 1893 and 1894 being almost total failures. He had two thousand five hundred bushels of old corn on hand which he sold for fifty-six cents per bushel, and he burned wood taken from his own grove.

While living in Illinois Mr. Rogers was united in marriage to Miss Sopliia Knight, a native of Maine, and to them six children have been born : Hattie, the wife of William Reed who is farming in York county; Bennett, whose death occurred at the age of forty-nine years; Ciu'tis, who is residing in Bradshaw; Cyrenius, who is fanning the old place; Sherman, who is engaged in railroading at Council Bluff, Iowa: Blanche, who is the wife of Ezra Lloyd of Lockridge township. Mrs. Rogers is a member of the United Brethren church in the activities of which she takes a prominent part.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Rogers the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the republican party and the principles for which it stands. He has always taken an active interest in educational atfairs and for some time served as school director in district il. Fraternally he is a Mason, belonging to the blue lodge. Mr. Rogers is also interested in the Farmers' Elevator at ilapps. He has seen the work of progress and development carried steadily forward and at all times has borne his part, especially along the line of agricultural improvement.

William Downey

A well spent life was that of William Downey, whose industry and integrity in business affairs won him success and the respect of his fellow men. He possessed many sterling traits of character and his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret among those with whom he was associated. He was born in Derry, Ireland, in 1839, and passed away on October 7, 1917, being then in his seventyeighth year. In 1858 Mr. Downey immigrated to the United States, the ocean voyage being made on an old sailing vessel which arrived in New York harbor after several weeks, and he went from there to Mercer county, Illinois, and rented a tract of land. Later he joined the military service in Illinois but was subsequently discharged owing to an attack of rheumatism. He married Margaret A. Ferguson in Illinois. Mrs. Downey was born in Cockermouth, England, a daughter of John Ferguson of that place, who came to America in a sailing vessel and located in Illinois, working there as a coal miner and at intervals acted as a minister of the Presbyterian church.

In 1871 William Downey drove from Illinois to Nebraska, the trip occupying three weeks before he reached Stewart township and here he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. About that time he was not in the best of health and his wife built the first house which was of the dugout type, and also put up a sod barn and some time later a sod house. Provisions had to be hauled from Lincoln and trailed across the country and wood had to lie hauled from lincoln creek. He broke the land and commenced the cultivation of crops, but during the two seasons of the grasshopper invasion everything that was growing upon the land was destroyed and his labors went for nothing. He was not discouraged by the.se disasters and in time liad his place again in good condition, crops growing, two orchards set out and other nuiterial improvements effected, finally bringing the holding to be one of the best in the district. In this work his wife played no small part and was untiring in her efforts to make the farm a financial success. In the dry seasons of the early '90s cultivation was almost at a standstill and they were compelled to burn corn and cornstalks for fuel.

Following her husliand's death in 1917 Mrs. Downey took over the ownership of the farm of one hundred and sixty acres, the old homestead, which is now operated by her son, Alex G. Downey, who is successfully conducting its affairs. In politics the late Mr. Downey gave his adherence to the republican party and his religious affiliation was with the Presbyterian church, in which his widow also holds membership and attends its services in Gresham, being now comfortably circumstanced in a fine home in that town. Coming to York county while it was in its infancy Mr. Downey witnessed its growth and development and in this expansion he played a full part. He followed the most progressive methods in the development of his land and stood at all times for every movement calculated to advance the welfare of the community in which he resided for well nigh fifty years.

Theron E. Sedgwick

Theron E. Sedgwick was born on a farm in Bloomingdale, Dupage county, Illinois, on the second day of September, 1852. His father was Doctor Parker Sedgwick, who had made an unsuccessful attempt to retire from the practice of medicine. His mother was Hepsibah (Goodwin) Sedgwick, who was born in Hartford, Connecticut. She was of Revolutionary stock, a descendant of the Captain Goodwin who rode in "Yankee Doodle."

When the subject of this sketch was thirteeii. years old his parents moved to Wheaton, Illinois, where he attended college' four years. When he was seventeen years of age he taught school in Champaign county, Illinois. In the fall of 1871 he entered the law department of Michigan University, at Ann Arbor, where he remained one year. He entered the law office of Elbert H. Gary, in Chicago, where he remained until., the spring of 1874, when he went to Wisconsin, was admitted to the bar of that state at Oconto, and entered the practice of his profession at De Pere, in partnership with his brother, the late Judge Samuel H. Sedgwick. He served as city attorney, county supervisor and county superintendent of schools, of Brown county, Wisconsin.

On the second day of July, 1874, T. E. Sedgwick was united in marriage to Miss Adelaide Thurston, at PuUersburg, Illinois. In September, 1878, they removed to York, Nebraska, where they have since resided. In company with his brother, Samuel, he opened a law office and pursued the practice of his chosen profession until compelled to give it up because of a disease which resulted in the loss of one eye. In March, 1881, he purchased a local paper in York, rechristened it "The York Times," and made it a republican paper. He continued its publication and in 1888 started the Daily Times, which has since been combined with the Daily News, and which he now edits. In the spring of 1880 Mr. Sedgwick was elected city councilman. He was secretary of the Republican State Central Committee two years - 1894 and 1895 - and was secretary of the state senate in 1895. Mr. Sedgwick was appointed postmaster of York by President McKinley and held that position nine je^rs to the entire satisfaction of the patrons of the office. During his incumbency of that position free delivery was established in the city and rural free delivery throughout the county. Also a site was purchased by the government for a federal building, which was afterward built and which is an ornament to the city.

Mr. Sedgwick has always been a progressive and enterprising citizen. He has built several dwellings, some of which are among the best in the city, and has erected business buildings, one of which is among the most imposing in the business district. Three children wore born to Mr. and Mrs. Sedgwick: Clara A., wife of John Alvah Rockwood of Portland, Oregon, valuation engineer of the Portland Railway, Light and Power Company; Theron E., Jr., an electrician, of Portland; and Phila M. Sedgwick, who resides at home.

Dr. Dexter D. King, junior partner of the firm Moore, Shidler & King, the York clinic, is widely known throughout York county as a physician and surgeon of ability. He is a native of York county having been born near Bradshaw on the 19th of September, 1884, the .son of Burnard and Lillie F. (Clark) King, the former born in Pennsylvania and the latter a native of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. King were married in Illinois and came to York county in 1878, settling on a farm. Here they remained until 1887 when they removed to Fremont and engaged in the furniture business. They conducted ihis venture iu Fremont until 1801 when they returned to York and engaged in the furniture, grocery, and undertaking business. He conducted the undertaking and furniture business until 1895 when he discontinued his connection with the former business venture and became exclusively an undertaker. Ju.st recently he has retired fjom active business life and both he and his wife are residing in York. Mr. King has always been a member of the republican party and served York as mayor for two terms. Mr. and Mrs. King are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and he is an Elk and a Mason. They are the parents of six children of whom the subject of this sketch is the fourth in order of birth, the others being: Gertie, the wife of Frank Couch, a well known electrician of Erie, Pennsylvania ; Jennie Maude, the wife of Albert A. Allen, an auto dealer of York; Lillie F., the wife of Charles Lytle, a farmer of York county; Emeline, the wife of William Holoch, a farmer of York county; J. L., who is the manager of the Basket stores of Omaha. Two brothers of Burnard King, Dexter David and Delbert, served in the Civil war and the former was killed at the battle of Fredericksburg.

Dr. Dexter D. King received his education in the public schools of York and was graduated from the York high school in 1001. He then removed to Omaha where he resided for four years, being engaged in the express business. He then decided upon the medical profession as his life work with the result that he entered the University of Xebraska, taking a six-year course in medicine and graduating on the 11th of June, 1914. After his graduation he served as hospital jihysician in the Iowa Methodist Hospital of Des jMoiues and iu 1915 came to Waco where he practiced for two years. On the 1st of December, 1916, he renioVed to York and became connected with Drs. Moore & Shidler. He did not practice here long, liowever, for he entered the service of the United States in the World war on the 9th of October, 1917, and served until March 3, 1919. The first three months of his service he spent at a medical officers training camp, at Camp Greenleaf, Georgia, and the next two months was spent in charge of the officers' ward at Camp Beauregard, Louisiana, in Base Hospital Xo. 39. He was then assigned to Base Hospital Xo. 19 at Rochester, Xew York, and from there he sailed overseas on the 3d of June, 1918. He was at Vichy in June and during part of July and August of that year was stationed with Evacuation Hospital No. 7, at Cliateau Thierry. He was tlien returned to the Vichy base where he remained until February, 1919, when he returnd to the United States. During his stay in France he received a captaincy and he was discharged at Camp Dix, N. J., March 3, 1919. On his return he again became connected with tlie York Clinic and is still practicing in that connection.

In June of the year 1906 Dr. King was married to Miss Mary Anderson a native of Iowa, and a daughter of Albert A. Anderson who lives in York, having retired from active farm life in 1916. Two children have been born to Dr. and Mrs. King, namely : Boyd G., aged twelve years ; and Thomas A., five years of age. Both children are now attending school. Dr. King follows an independent course in politics, supporting the man rather than the party. Fraternally he is a thirtysecond degree Mason and an Odd Fellow, and is a member of all branches in the latter organization. Aside from his profession Dr. King devotes much time to the interests of the American Legion, and he was a delegate to the first convention in Lincoln in 1919 to organize the American Legion. He was also a delegate to the first state convention and to the first national convention at Minneapolis. He was first commander of the local post, No. 19, and was instrumental in organizing the first Woman's Auxiliary in the state of Nebraska. Dr. King is well known throughout the county in connection with many public affairs and as a physician and surgeon he is ranked among the foremost, xllthough he has a large general practice he makes a specialty of surgery.

The York Clinic, commonly known as the firm of Moore, Shidler and King, was formed as such in 1911: by Drs. 0. M. Moore and George P. Shidler, successors to the old firm of Moore and Shidler. Dr. D. D. King became a member of the firm in the spring of 1917, coming from Waco, Nebraska, at that time. The facilities at this time include different departments dealing with diagnosis and treatment of diseases, such as complete X-ray laboratory for diagnosis and treatment, a pathological and bacteriological laboratory, eye, ear, nose and throat department, electrotlierapeutic offices. The general idea of the doctors in charge is to have a specialist for most of the commoner troubles that afflict mankind. The clinic is located at 107-09 W. 7th St. and is run in connection with the Clinic Hospital. The Clinic Hospital is a modern, up-to-the-minute hospital located at the corner of Seventh and Nebraska avenue, consisting of sixteen rooms with facilities for fifteen patients. Mrs. May Thompson, E. N., is in charge of the hospital. Surgical, obstetrical and medical cases are treated here. The staff doctors are those of the Clinic.

Peter C. Friesen

Peter C. Friesen is a resident farmer of York county, owning and cultivating one hundred and sixty acres of prime land on section 19, Brown township. He is a native son of the county, born September 20, 1878, a son of Jacob and Anna Friesen, both natives of Russia where they lived until 1874, in that year immigrating to America. On arriving in this country Jacob Friesen came to Nebraska, settled on section 30, Brown township, York county, and erected a sod house in which the family lived for several years. He was engaged in agricultural operations which he carried on with success during his active years and passed away in 1913, having reached an advanced age. His widow is living. They were the parents of ten children, seven of whom survive.

Peter C. Friesen whose name introduces this review, acquired his education in the common, schools of York county and for some years thereafter helped his father in the work of the home farm. Later he decided to engage in agricultural pursuits on his own account and secured a tract of land which ever since he has been operating with decided success. He is now the owner of a half section located in Brown township, all of which is in an excellent state of improvement and he is actively engaged in general fanning and stock raising. His place is improved with substantial buildings, well kept fences and good farm machinery and everything about his farm indicates his careful supervision and his practical and progressive methods.

On March 7, 1901, Mr. Friesen was united in marriage to Katherine Doell, and to this union five children have been born: Eosa, born March 8, 1902, died September 16, 1904; Walter J., born January 26, 1906, died June 27, 1909; Selma S., born April 26, 1909; Ada L., born June 18, 1911, and Waldo R., born September 7, 1912. Mr. Friesen supports the men and measures of the democratic party. He is now serving as a justice of the peace and is a member of the school board for his township. He is a self-made man, whose success in life is due to his ovm unaided efforts and is regarded as one of the leading citizens of the community in which he resides.

Homer 0. Meserve

Homer 0. Meserve, the popular and well known cashier of the Bank of Lushton, York county, is a native of Colorado, born in that state, October 2, 1888,' a son of William H. and Flora (Gross) Meserve, natives of Illinois, who came to Nebraska in 1S72 and are now living on their farm near Cortland, this state, having retired from life's active affairs. Tliey are the parents of three children, all of whom are living. In their home town they are deservedly esteemed for their good citizenship and per.sonal worth.

Homer 0. Meserve of this review was reared in Nebraska, received his preliminary education in the common schools of the state and later graduated from Cortland high school. He then entered the Lincoln Business College from which he emerged well qualified for his chosen work in life. He became associated with banking business in 1910 and in the intervening years has maintained his connection with that line of activity. In 1918 he moved to Lushton and accepted the responsible position of cashier of the Bank of Lushton and has since been conducting that department of the bank's affairs with credit to himself and with satisfaction to the stockholders and depositors of the bank which is a growing institution with great promise of substantial advancement in the public favor as time progresses.

On September 3, 1917, Mr. Meserve was united in marriage to Miss Winifred Rothman, a native of York county and a daughter of Louis and Trennie (Thamer)

Eothman, both of whom are well known residents of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Meserve are the parents of one child : Homer 0., Jr., born October 12, 1918. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the good works of which they take an active part. He supports the republican party and is now serving as treasurer of the local school board and also has a seat on the town board, to the work of these two public trusts giving close attention and efficient service. He has achieved a well deserved measure of success and is a man of sterling worth and unremitting industry.

Axel Eenquist

Among the men who have found success in following agricultural pursuits and are now able to live retired is Axel Renquist, a native of Sweden, born in that country June 4, 1853, a son of Jonas and Gustave (Johnson) Eenquist, also natives of Sweden where their entire lives were spent. Jonas Eenquist pursued his occupation of wagon-maker during all the active years of his life. Of the children born to these parents six came to the United States, namely : Lottie, deceased, who married August Johnson; Charles, deceased, formerly a resident of York county ; Axel, subject of this sketch ; August W., retired farmer, now living in Stromsburg; Alfred, living in California; and John, deceased.