York County, Nebraska - Biographical sketches, 1921 (part 6 of 13)

March 2, 1860, Mr. Boon was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Ruckman, a native of New Jersey. They became the parents of ten children, namely : David, who died in infancy; Wallace N., who is engaged in the grain business in Minneapolis, Minnesota ; Anna R., the wife of P. A. Drake, who is a carpenter residing at Winner, South Dakota; P. S., who is living retired at Utica; Hattie, who is the wife of E. J. Jones, an agriculturist of York county; Emma, the wife of A. B. Carter, who is engaged in the grain business at Kimball, Nebraska; Mildred, the wife of John Frazer, who operates the old homestead farm ; John, deceased ; Lucia, at home with her mother; and Archie, who has also passed away.

Mr. Boon was a stanch republican in politics, ever supporting the party which was the defense of the Union during the dark days of the Civil war. He served as justice of the }>eace and made an enviable record in that official capacity. Fraternally he was a Master Mason and an Odd Fellow, and he maintained pleasant relations with his old military comrades through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic. His demise, which occurred November 24, 1899, when he was sixty years of age, was deeply deplored by all who knew him and it was generally conceded that the county had lost one of its most esteemed and valued citizens. His widow, who still, resides in Utica, is a Methodist in religious faith and a woman whose many excellent traits of character have won her a large circle of warm friends.

Isaac J. Farley

The family of Isaac J. Farley residing in Benedict, pays fitting tribute to his memory in preserving a brief record of his life in this history of York county. He was born in the state of Pennsylvania, where he was reared, educated and grew to manhood, during his youth being engaged in farming.

Mr. Farley was married in Pennsylvania to Annie C. Sidler, a native of that state, and after their marriage they moved to a farm which he continued to operate for two years. In 1875 they migrated to York county, locating in Thayer township, and bought eighty acres of raw prairie land for which six dollars per acre was paid. There were no improvements of any kind on tlie holding and a house sufficient for their temporary needs was erected. The ground was broken and tilled and Mr. Farley was in a fair way to make a success of his labors when death called him. He passed away in 1896, while still in the prime of manhood. To his family he was a devoted husband and father and found his greatest happiness in promoting the welfare of his wife and children. In business affairs he was progressive and reliable and his sterling worth was acknowledged in many relations.

After the death of her husband Mrs. Farley assumed the responsibility of carrying on the farm and paid off all the accrued debts. From time to time she added land to the original holding and is now the owner of two hundred and forty acres of prime land, on which she effected many valuable improvements and planted large numbers of trees which enhanced the appearance and value of the place. She became the mother of six children as follows: Catherine, the wife of Ellis Troup ; Christian, who lives in Thayer township ; Hattie, the wife of Fred Liebtke : Edgar, who lives in Thayer township; Isaac, who assists on the home farm; and

Samuel, who dieil at the age of eight years, ilrs. Farley rcinained on the farm until 1917 when she moved to Benedict, where she is pleasantly and eomfovtahly situated. She is a regular attendant on the services of the Lutheran church, as was her hushand. Her social position is indicated by the fact that the hospitality of the best homes of Benedict is freely accorded her.

Julius Blum

Julius Blum was one of the courageous frontiersmen who dared to locate in York county in the days when it was a wild district with its lands unclaimed and its resources undeveloped. Mr. Blum has not only witnessed the wonderful transformation but has aided largely in the labors that have converted this raw country into the splendid commonwealth of today. Julius Blum was born in Posen, Germany, November 23, 184-1, the son of Michael and Augusta (Warnek) Blum, who ])assed away while their son was in military service. Julius Blum was excused to go home to the family of brothers and sisters, and rather than reenter the service he came to the United States in 1868, locating at Watertown, Wisconsin, for a time, and later in Clayton, Iowa, where he worked on a farm.

In 1871 he came to York county where he took up a homestead of eighty acres on section thirty-two of what is now Beaver township, built a dugout and experienced the hardships that were so well known to the pioneer. Whenever it rained the dirt on the roof of his little home crumbled down upon him, often falling on the table during a meal. In 1871 Mr. Blum liought a reaper. This was q ite an investment and proved an unfortunate one, for that was the year when the grasshopper plague wrought such havoc with the crops and the reaper remained unused. In spite of adversity and misfortune of the years Mr. Blum prospered and at one time was the owner of four hundred acres of good farm land which he has since sold to his sons. He still resides on the old jilace. though he is retired from active labor.

lie was married to Caroline Markworth, a native of Germany, who passed away leaving a family of four children: Louis, who is married, resides in Mc- Fadden township; William, who lives in Beaver township; Herman, of Beaver township; and Augusta, deceased. Later Mr. Blum was married to the widow of_ Ludwig Brueggemann, whose maiden name was Sophia Wellman. She had five children l)y her former marriage: Alice, the wife of B. Widle, who resides in Nance county, Nebraska: Eose, who is married to Fred Gocke, of Pierce county, Nebraska; Albert, who lives in Beaver township; Tillie, the wife of William Blum, of Beaver township; and R. L., who resides in Beaver township. Mr. and Mrs. Blum are the ])arcnts of five children : Emma, the wife of Leonard Leyboldt, of Beaver township; Ed. F., who is engaged in farming in Beaver township; Clara, the wife of Adolph Pieper, of West Blue township: Hulda, who is married to John Burhoop, a resident of Seward county; and Herbert R., born January 5. 1892, who is farming the home jilace. A sketch of him ajipcars elsewhere in this

Mr. Blum lias not only became a substantial citizt'U who now enjoys life in rest and ciinirort l)ut has also rendered service to his adopted country in times of peace as well as iu times of war. As a pioneer he contributed materially toward the upbuilding along agricultural lines and thus heli)ed to make possible the prosperous conditions that now maintain in York county, while as a citizen he has always been loyal to American ideals and American standards.

Rev. Heixrich H. Epp

Rev. Heinrich H. Epp is a retired farmer residing in Henderson township, his home being on section 9. For many years he was closely associated with the agricultural development of this section of the state and owns a highly improved and productive farm which annually returns to him a substantial income. Mr. Epp was born in southern Russia, April 8, 1857, his parents l)eing Heinrich and Marie (Regier) Epp, who were also natives of Russia, in which country the mother passed away. Later the father married again and in 187J: came to America, settling on the farm in York county which is now owned by his son Heinrich. He secured a tract of railroad land which he purchased for four dollars and twenty cents per acre. It was entirely undeveloped and unimproved but with characteristic energy he began to break the sod and till the fields and on his place he built a little board dwelling and a sod barn. He continued to engage in the cultivation and development of this place until his death, which occurred in 1885.

Heinrich H. Epp of this review is the only surviving member of a family of four children. He spent the period of his boyhood and youth and acquired his education in Russia and in Germany. He was but seventeen years of age when he came to the new world and he continued to make his home with his father until the latter's death. He then came into possession of the farm but has extended its boundaries from time to time by additional purchase and was once the owner of sixteen hundred and eighty acres of valuable laud. Since then, however, he has given to each of his children an eighty-acre tract but still retains a valuable holding for himself. He always carried on general farming, producing the crops best adapted to soil and climatic conditions here and likewise engaged successfully in stock raising. In fact he became recognized as a very progressive agriculturist and one who at all times displayed sound business judgment. He added to his farm all modern improvements, secured the most up-to-date machinery to facilitate the work of the fields, planted a fine orchard and raised fruit of all kinds. He also became one of the stockholders of the MeCloud Hotel.

In 1880 Mr. Epp was married to Miss Helena Peters, a native of Russia, who came to America in 1878 with her parents, Dietrich and Helena (Fast) Peters, who were also natives of that country. To Mr. and Mrs. Epp were born the following children: Margaret, the wife of D. J. Mierau of York county; Rev. H. D. Dietrich; Cornelius; Helen, the wife of D. P. Mierau; Marie tlie wife of J. K. Freisen : Jacob, who was born February 13, 18!)3, and died on the 4th of September following; Joliann, who was born in 1891:; Elizabeth, l)orn July 19, 1896; Sarah, who was born July 24, 1898, and died January 3, 1909; and Gustav, who was born August 7, IDiil, and died December 31, 1908.

In his political views Mr. Epp has been a stalwart republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and for several years he served as school director. He has always been interested in everything pertaining to public welfare and progress and his cooperation has been an important element in advancing many interests for the public good. He has long been a most active worker in the Bethesda church, served as deacon for eleven years and in 1895 was ordained as a minister of the church in which he is now also serving as elder. He has aljvays stood for those forces which make for the material, intellectual, social and moral progress of the community and has long been recognized as one of the valued and representative citizens of York county.

Francis M. Brabham

A man of well balanced capacities and powers is always a strong character and one who inspires confidepce in others : he may not have genius or any phenomenal characteristics, yet he is capable of mature judgment of his own capacities and of the people and circumstances that make up his life's contacts and experiences. What a man does and what he attains depend largely upon his opportunities, and even-paced energy will generally carry him forward to the goal of success. These thoughts are reflected in the life and work of Francis M. Brabham, born in Washington county, Ohio, June 17, 1846, now in his seventy-fifth year, living retired after the strenuous activity of a life on the farm.

His parents were John P. and Docia (Webster) Brabham, the former a native of the state of Virginia and the latter of Connecticut. Early in life they found themselves in Ohio, were married in that state and there brought up their family. In 18G7 they moved to Illinois and secured a tract of land for which John P. Brabham paid eighteen dollars per acre and there, assisted by his sons, he broke the sod and cultivated the fields, finally bringing the place to a condition of excellent improvement and he and his wife there spent the remained of their lives. Before taking to farming he had been following the trade of a cooper. Mr. and Mrs. Brabham were the parents of five children : Walter and Leonidas, both deceased: David, living in Decatur, Illinois, employed as salesman by a whole.sale house; Dianthy, deceased, and Francis M., subject of this sketch. The parents were Methodists and loyal to the teachings of their denomination. He had always been an active adherent of the republican party and displayed a progressive spirit in community affairs.

Francis M. Brabham attended the public school of Ohio in the acquirement of an education and in his early youth he learned the cooper trade and also worked at farming. In 1867, being then in his twenty-first year, he accompanied his parents to Illinois and worked at farming, receiving, as he asserts, fifty cents per day for his labor. In 1871 he purchased a tract of land which he operated for some time and finally sold out, realizing a handsome profit on the investment. It was in 1882 that Mr. Brabham came to Nebraska and purchased two hundred and forty acres of school land located in Morton township, York county. He paid seven dollars per acre for the holding, proceeded to set it out to cultivation, improved and developed the tract as he went along, finally making it one of the best kept places in the township or county. His practical methods and his industry were rewarded by large crops and he gave careful attention to markets.

and thus was able to dispose of his crops and stock to good advantage. He has had numerous offers made for the farm and has refused as high as three hundred dollars an acre for it. In 1910, feeling that he had earned a period of repose, he retired from active participation in the agricultural affairs of his place, and since that date has been living in comfortable retirement in Benedict. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company at Benedict.

Mr. Brabham's marriage took place in Illinois, his bride being Rebecca Dieter, a native of Akron Heights, Ohio, and to their union two children were born: Carrie, who died at the age of three years; and Ella, wife of Fred Grobe, a York county farmer. The family are members of the Methodist church and Mr. Brabham is a stanch republican. Interested in the advancement of eflucation, he served on the local school board for some years. He is a man of genuine worth and occupies a high place as a citizen, unstinted esteem being extended to him on all sides.

Henry H. Shrigley

For a number of years Henry H. Shrigley engaged in farming in Nebraska, and in 191-1 when his death occurred in York widespread grief was experienced by his many friends. He was an Englishman by birth, born on the 14th day of February, 1862, in London, England, the son of English parents who died in his early manhood.

Henry H. Shrigley received his education in England where he resided until he was twenty years of age at which time he came to the United States, settling in Galena, Illinois. For one year he remained there working on a farm and in 1885, removed to York county and worked as a farm hand near Arborville for several months. This farm wliich consisted of one hundred and sixty acres he later purchased and operated for a period of years. He sold this farm but purchased a farm in South Dakota and one in western Nebraska, removing to the former where he remained for only six months, at the termination of which time he returned to York and retired from active farm life. He had bought a nice home on Blackburn avenue in 1911 and here he resided until his death which occurred on the 18th of August, 1914. At the time of his death he had acquired three hundred and twenty acres of land and was considered one of the progressive farmers of his community.

In 1889 Mr. Shrigley was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Jane Moore, a native of Hanover, Jo Daviess county, Illinois, and a daughter of William and Jane Moore, who were born in Ireland of Scotch-Irish ancestry. They came to this country in their early life and settled in Jo Daviess county, Illinois, where they died. Mrs. Shrigley was one of ten children born to them : the others living being : Mrs. Lynn, who resides in South Dakota ; Mrs. Wilson of Davenport, Iowa ; Mrs. Woodward of York, Nebraska; and Josiah, a farmer of Jo Daviess county, Illinois. Five other children are deceased. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Shrigley three children were born : Joseph Edward, who is assistant cashier of the City National Bank of York; Margaret Katherine, who died at the age of seven years; and Muriel, who died in infancy.

iially he was an Odd Felluw and a Woodman. He also belonged to the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Mr. Shrigley was a consistent member of the Congregational church and his widow is still active in the various activities of this church. Mrs. Shrigley is residing in the home place with her son, Edward. All that Mr. Shrigley acquired during his life was the result of his own diligence and industry and for three years prior to his death he lived in York, retired, enjoying the fruits of a successful life.

Robert E. Byers

Robert E. Byers, a well known and well-to-do retired farmer and business man, who for more than forty years has been a resident of York county and in that period has been a witness to and a participant in its growth and development, is a native of Illinois, born in Putnam county, that state, in 1853. He is a son of William and Lydia Ann (Plank) Byers, both natives of Pennsylvania who later moved to Illinois, where the father followed the occupations of farming and blacksmithing. In addition to the subject of this .sketch, the other members of his family were: Oella Ham, a daughter, who lived for three years in Polk county and then returned to Illinois: Emma Hilton, who lived in York county for three years and then moved to Iowa ; and William, who lived in York where he taught school and is now living in Salt Lake City. The parents of tliese children passed away many years ago.

R. E. Byers was educated in the schools of Illinois and helped on his father's farm for some years. In 1878, being then in his twenty-fifth year, he came to Nebraska and bought land in York county on the county line, also buying a tract in Polk county two years later. His first purchase consisted of two hundred and forty acres of land, to which he later added eighty acres of railroad land, the price of the latter being seven dollars an acre. One of the holdings had a small frame house upon it and he erected another of the same description, hauling the hunlier from York. As he progressed with his agricultural operations Mr. Byers added valuable improvements in the way of buildings and planted trees and set out orchards, thereliy bringing his place into the front rank among farming lands in the county. For about eight years he carried on general farming and stock raising, his .success being assured from the very beginning, as he brought keen Judgment and business-like methods to bear upon all of his operations. At the time of his retirement from the farm in 1886 he was the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of excellent land, all of which is still his property.

When Mr. Byers retired from the farm he moved to Gresham which in that year was being organized and settled. He brought a little house from the farm to the town and placed it in a cornfield and was one of the very first settlers to reside in Gresham. From the commencement of his residence in the town he saw the great possibilities for commercial development which it offered. He established the first hardware store in Gre.sham, styled the Byers & DuUuni Hardware Company, which was under his management for ten years. This was followed by the opening u]) of general merchandise stores and a drug store. Two years after starting the store he was in the elevator business with Mr. Davidson and his son. He also for a time was a director of and a stockholder in the First National Bank of Gresham, this being an institution which he helped to organize. He retired from active participation in commercial affairs in 1910 and has since been living amid the most pleasant surroundings, honored and respected by all who know him.

In 1875, in Iowa, Mr. Byers was united in marriage to Carrie Graff, a daughter of John Graff, who immigrated to American and settled in Iowa, where his last days were spent. For many years Mr. Byers has been an active supporter of the prohibitionist cause and has lived to see his desires in that connection become a legislative fact. He served as mayor of Gresham for some years and in that representative capacity lent much dignity to the good name of the town. His religious affiliation is with the Presbyterian church, to the upkeep of which he is a liberal contributor. At different points in his career difficulties have barred his path and he has had many obstacles to overcome, but presistent energy has enabled him to work his way upward and his life proves the eternal principle that industry wins.

William A. Chorn

William A. Chorn, deceased, was for many years a prominent farmer in Nebraska, owning land in Saline, Jefferson and York counties. He was born near Kansas City, Missouri, on the 20th of March, 1852, and died in York in August, 1909. His parents were James K. and Sarah (Russell) Chorn, the former a native of Kentucky, while the latter was born in Kansas City, Missouri. Seven children were born to this union, among them the subject of this review.

William A. Chorn was reared and received his education in Indiana, but on reaching young manhood removed to Iowa settling near Hamburg. Here he engaged in farming for some time and in 1881 was married. In 1886 he and his wife came to Nebraska and settled in Saline county where they rented land for one year. The following year he bought a farm in Jefferson county and moved on to it. The original land consisted of one hundred and sixty acres, but he soon added another one Inmdred and sixty acres and subsequently one hundred and twenty acres more. This farm was highly cultivated and one of the finest in the county. Mr. and Mrs. Chorn made their home here until February, 1909, when they removed to York and purchased a home. Mr. Chorn did not live long to enjoy his home, however, for he passed away in Augu-st of that year. His widow still resides there enjoying a substantial income from two hundred and forty acres of the original farm in Jefferson county.

Mr. Chorn's marriage took place in Iowa, in 1881. He was wedded to Miss Viola E. Snyder, a native of Lee county, Iowa, and the daughter of Henry and Pauline Snyder, the former born in Pennsylvania and the latter in Columbus, Ohio. For a number of years they resided in Illinois but later removed to Iowa where they died. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Chorn three sons were born: Sidney R., a ranchman in Idaho; Wallace S., automobile agent for the Paige car, in Los Angeles; and Miller II., who is engaged in the clothing business in San Francisco.

Throughout his life Mr. Chorn was a stanch supporter of the democratic party and well versed on the issues and questions of the day. He did not lightly shoulder the responsibility of his citizenship and was ever active in the interest of his party, although he never desired nor souglit public office. He was a member of the United Brethren church and a strong prohibitionist. During the early married life of Mr. and Mrs. Chorn they experienced many hardships, but later enjoyed the success of their courage and labors. Although Mr. Chorn resided in York but a short time before his death he made many and fast friends who felt a great liereavement at his demise.

Sebastian Gilmore

It has been said that when a boy or a man has a nickname it is a good sign that he has friends. This is certainly true in the case of Sebastian Gilmore, familiarly known as '"Boss,"' who was one of the pioneer homesteaders of York county. Mr. Gilmore had an uncle in Pennsylvania who was called "Boss" and this is probably where his name originated. "Boss" Gilmore was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, March 2, 1847, the son of Elias Gilmore of Virginia, who married Hulda Rush, a native of Pennsylvania, and became a resident of Livingston county, Illinois, in 1858. In 1865, accompanied by his oldest son, John Rush Gilmore, and William Taylor, Elias Gilmore left Livingston county for Nebraska, traveling overland with a team and wagon. They were delayed at Sidney, Iowa, for some weeks waiting for the ice on the Missouri river to become sufficiently strong to permit them to drive across and consequently did not arrive in York county until the latter part of December. Leaving the old freight road at the Fouse ranch they followed a dim wagon track westward along the Blue river, finding John Anderson, who was the first homesteader in York county, already located near the eastern line of the county on what is now the southwest one quarter of section two of West, Blue township. Coming west they ate their Christmas dinner in camp on section six, just north of where the Knights of Pythias camp is now located.

After looking over their land they returned to Nebraska City and homesteaded their claim, January 1, 1866. Driving back to the land they made preparations for their new home. The winter was spent in a small dugout which was situated near the river and completely surrounded by Indians. They went back to Illinois the next summer and November 3, 1866, Elias Gilmore returned to Nebraska with his family, and made a permanent settlement. Their home was built by digging a cave in the side of a hill audxthe front built up with logs. A huge fireplace in one end of the ten by twenty-four feet dwelling was built of sod, plastered with mud and the rough boards overhead were covered with dirt. It was a wet summer, unfortunately, and the dirt roof failed to keep out the rain, so it was necessary to build a new home. Mr. Gilmore raised a good crop of barley and buckwheat, taking the latter to Camden Mills, thirty miles distant, to be ground into flour which he took to Nebraska City and sold for eleven dollars per hundred pounds. The barley was also sold there for one dollar and seventy-five cents \~>er bushel. Lumber was purchased and brought back and the first frame house was built in York county. The building was twenty-four by fourteen with a sixteen-foot ell and the fact that it is still standing proves that it was well built. It was here that Elias Gilmore resided and successfully engaged in farming until he passed away twenty- two years ago after he had passed his eightieth milestone. Mr. and Mrs. Gihnore were the parents of the following children, and two who died in Pennsylvania : Arminda J., who resides in California; Mary C, the wife of A. J. Corey, of Fairfield, Nebraska; Sabina. the widow of Nelson Creech, of Portland, Oregon; Margaret, the widow of Asahiel Beckwith, of Livingston county, Illinois; W. C, born in Illinois, who resides in Shenandoah, .Iowa; J. W., who passed away in California, where he lived with his sister, Arminda; Sebastian, of this review; and J. E., who formerly conducted a store at Blue Valley and is now a resident of California. Elias Gilmore was a member of and helped to organize the first Christian church in the county. In politics his endorsement was given to the democratic party and he was a man who kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day. It is to such men as Mr. Gilmore, men who have displayed a spirit of undaiinted enterprise, that York county owes her development and progress, for they have utilized her natural resources to the best possible advantage, overcoming the hardships that must, needs be theirs who make easier the way for others who are to come to a new country.

Sebastian Gilmore was a lad of nineteen years when the family came to York county and at the age of twenty-one he took tp a homestead of eighty acres where he built a log house in which he lived for ten years. Later he built a large frame house and is now the owner of over four hundred acres of rich farm land. "Boss" Gilmore was a young man when the first post-ofiice was established in that neighborhood in 1869 and he became a mail carrier, riding on a pony from Lincoln to Milford, Camden, West Mills, Beaver Crossing, Blue Valley and McFadden. "Boss" Gilmore was very successful in general farming and devoted his time to feeding cattle for several years. He was one of the very first residents in the county, there being not more than two or three who preceded him here. The privations and hardships of the pioneer are all familiar to him and he well remembers the year of the grasshopper pestilence.

Mr. Gilmore was married to Lura Randall, a native of Wisconsin, who passed away seven years ago leaving eight children, three of whom are living : Odin S., an attorney of York, Nebraska ; Robert L., who practices law in Omaha, Nebraska ; and Blanche, the wife of Charles Bucy, who is operating Mr. Gilmore's farm. His life has been one of continuous activity in which has been accorded due recognition of labor, and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his community. His interests are thoroughly identified with farming and he is at all times ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement calculated to benefit this section of the country or advance its development.

Winfield Scott Freeman

A life of industry and thrift brought to Winfield Scott Freeman a substantial measure of success, while the sterling worth of his character gained for him warm friendships and high regard. He resided for a number of years in York county and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. He was born in Genoa, Wisconsin, July 18, 1854, and his life record covered the intervening years to the 1-1 th of November, 1919. He was reared and educated in Wisconsin and when twenty-tliree years of age left that state and removed to Nehraska, settling in York county in 1876. Here he purchased railroad land twelve miles southwest of the city of York and this he improved and developed. There was a tiny house on this place when he bought it, and he occupied it for some time, but later built a larger residence, the lumber for which was hauled from Nebraska City. In IDll he moved to York.

In 1878 Mr. Freeman was united in marriage in York to Miss Sophia Spindell, who was born in New Orleans, La., a daughter of William and Myra (Long) Spindell, both of whom were born and reared in Germany. Following the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Spindell they sailed for New Orleans in 1846 and there Mr. Spindell became connected with the French market, selling poultry. His death occurred in the Crescent City and there he was buried. The mother afterward came with her daughter to York county in 1876. She purchased land which she turned over to Mr. Freeman to take care of, and for a long period he was closely associated with the agricultural interests of the state. He became the owner of two hundred and forty acres, constituting a valuable and highly developed property. Mrs. Freeman still owns the same farm. He was a hard worker, his industry and capable management constituting the basis of his success.

Mr. Freeman held membership in the Christian church. His political support was given to the republican party and he took a deep interest in all matters of progressive citizenship. While he was active in politics he never sought nor desired office. He and his wife left their old home in 1911 and removed to the city of York, where he passed away, while his widow resides in a pleasant home at No. 101 Lincoln avenue. He was in very limited circumstances when he came to the west and had but fifty cents left after his marriage. His courage and determination, however, carried him steadily forward to success and he was thus able to leave his widow in very comfortable financial circumstances. He was also survived by two brothers and a sister: Adolph and Earl, both of whom live at Maywood, Nebraska; and Mrs. Ella Faling, a resident of Oregon. Coming to York county in early manhood Mr. Freeman was well known, gaining many friends during tihe 'long years of his residence in this state, so that his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret.

George A. Friesen

It is said that few men possess the ability to attain success along both commercial and agricultural lines but George A. Friesen, a well known merchant of Henderson, York county, has made a creditable record in both connections. He was born in Hamilton county, Nebraska, March 28, 1888,- a son of Peter B. and Magrata (Abrahams) Friesen, both natives of the southern part of Russia and who immigrated to America in 1875. Shortly after arriving in this country the parents came to Nebraska and located on a farm in Hamilton county which they operated for several years, making a splendid success of their holding. In 1012 they retired from the active labors of the farm and moved to Henderson where they are very comfortably and pleasantly situated, enjoying the esteem and regard of a wide circle of friends to whom they have endeared themselves by their sinqilicity of life

George A. Friesen was reared on his father's farm in Hamilton county and was educated in the common schools of the county, later entering college in which he spent one term. He then turned his attention to farming and for several years was engaged in agricultural pursuits, applying himself with close attention to its many details and operating his holding to considerable advantage, gradually taking a front place among the younger group of successful farmers in the county. In 1916 Mr. Friesen forsook the fields for mercantile life and became associated first with the clothing business, remaining in that line for four years. He then formed a partnership with Mr. P. J. Eatzlaff in the general mercantile and clothing business in Henderson, and their combined efforts and. industry have met with results of a most encouraging and satisfactory character. A reputation for integrity and straight dealing has been no small factor in their success and an increased volume of trade is constantly being accorded them. In addition to his interest in the mercantile store Mr. Friesen is the owner of forty acres of prime land located in Hamilton county, from which he derives a gratifying annual income.

Mr. Friesen was united in marriage to Miss Katie A. Friesen, a namesake but no relation and she is a daughter of John W. Friesen, of Henderson, where he is widely and popularly known. To this union four children have been born : Elsie, Lenora, Eichard and Carolina. The family are members of the Batarta church at Henderson, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part. In politics he votes for progress without regard to party and his efforts are always directed toward the advancement of all projects calculated to improve the material and social welfare of the community, and in these movements he is ably supported by his wife. Mr. Friesen is chief of the fire department in Henderson and is always in readiness to do his duty in connection with this work. His name is virtually a household word and his influence on the life of the district in which he lives is far-reaching and useful in all its phases.

Edward F. Blum

A successful farmer and landowner of York county is Edward F. Blum, who was born on the old homestead farm of his father, Julius Blum, of whom further mention is made on another page of this work.

Edward F. Blum was reared on a farm in York county, received his education in the public schools, and after putting his textbooks aside decided to engage in farming. In 1907 he commenced farming on his own account and is now the possessor of one hunclred and sixty acres purchased from his father. This land is very well improved and Mr. Blum engages in general farming.

In early life Mr. Blum was united in marriage to Miss Anna Zwieg, a native of Beaver township and a daughter of William Zwieg, one of the earliest settlers of this township. Four children have been born to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Blum : Lawrence, Victor, Alfred and Harold. Miss Euth Brueggeman, a niece of Mrs. Blum, also makes her home with them, her mother having died when she was just a child. Mr. and Mrs. Blum take an active interest in the development and improvement of the community in whicli they reside, and their land, section thirty-two, Beaver township, this county, is highly improved and cultivated. They are known to be progressive citizens and are happy in the esteem and regard of their fellowmen.

Chaeles 11. Bedient

Charles H. Bedient, who has been living retired in Bradshaw for many years, was long and actively identified with agricultural pursuits in York county and is still the owner of four hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. His birth occurred in Lee county, Illinois, December 27, 1863, his parents being Osborn and Hannah (Marshall) Bedient, both natives of Boone county, Xew York state, where the former was a farmer and stock buyer.

In 1854 Osborn Bedient migrated to Illinois and was in possession of but two dollars. He went to Amboy and there prevailed on a friend to return to Mendota wdth a team to bring his family to Amboy. The country around was almost all in a raw prairie state and the settlers were living in log houses. Mr. Bedient commenced farming on his own account by renting land and in the absence of the necessary machinery had to plant corn by hand. After the lapse of some years his agricultural operations began to prove successful. He devoted the greater part of his time to the buying and shipping of live stock and his efforts met with satisfactory financial results. He spent the remaining years of his life in Illinois and at the date of his death, in 1916, he was eighty-four years old, having been born in 1832. His wife, who was born in 1830, passed away on June 22, 1906. They were the parents of the following children: Lewis, who lives in Lee county, Illinois; Edwin, living in Arborville; Alice, the widow of Daniel Craig, who lived in Illinois ; Carrie, who married A. J. Eogers, now deceased ; Eugene, a farmer, living in Illinois: Frank, who farms in York county; Charles H., the subject of this sketch ; Addie A., the wife of F. J. Tewell, of Julesburg, Colorado ; Edith M., the widow of William Fell, of Illinois; Fred, a farmer living in Arborville township; Grace, the wife of John Theiss, of Jialesburg, Colorado; and Sarah, who died in infancy. Osborn Bedient gave his political support to the republican party, but never sought public office, preferring to devote his energies to his farming operations.

Charles II. Bedient was educated in the common schools of Illinois and was reared in his father's home, assisting in the labors of the fai-m during his youth and early manhood and was in his twenty-second year before he left his parents' roof. In 1887 he arrived in York county and settled in Arborville, commencing his agricultural career by renting land. He continued to rent until he had accumulated sufficient money to enable him to make a purchase of a holding for himself. This he eventually acquired and devoted his place to general farming and stock raising, his untiring energy and industry being rewarded by excellent returns. He added more land to the first purchase and is now the owier of four hundred and sixty acres of farm land, all well improved and the equal of any in his part of the county. In 1901 Mr. Bedient moved to Bradshaw, from which point he bought and shipped live stock. Apart from his farming interests he displays activity in the affairs of the Farmers State Bank, of which he was one of the organizers in 1912 and now fills the office of vice president of the institution.

Mr. Bedient has been twice married. lu 1895 he was married to Tillie Euch, who died in 1914. On Xovember 3, 1915, he took for his second wife Mattie C. Steinberg and tliey are the parents of one child, Franlv Osborn Bedient. Mrs. Bedient attends the services of tlie Christian church. He is a member of the Masonic order and of the Modern Woodmen of America, while in political affairs he gives his support to the republican party. He has held several township and city offices and served on the county board for some years. His well directed business activities have w-on him material success and by his upright and honorable life he has gained the warm regard and friendship of many with whom he has been brought into contact.

Emanuel Eeisixgee

The agricultural development of York county is largely attributable to the efforts of such men as Emanuel Eeisinger, who has now reached the venerable age of eighty years and who has for an extended period been actively engaged in farming and stock raising in Y^ork county. In addition to his agricultural pursuits he has also followed the shoemaker's trade, being so successful in all lines of work that he is now living retired in York at 317 Nebraska Avenue, enjoying the reward of his labor and diligence.

Emanuel Eeisinger was born in York county, Pennsylvania, March 18, 1840, a son of John and Polly (Wyland) Eeisinger, both of whom were born in Germany. They later emigrated to the United States where the father was employed as a laborer and lioth of them died in Pennsylvania. In the acquirement of an education Emanuel Eeisinger attended the common schools of his native state and early in life learned the shoemaker's trade. He followed this trade at Marysville, Pennsylvania, until 1863, at which time he enlisted for service during the Civil war. At Carlisle, Pennsylvania, he joined Company D, One Hundred and Forty-ninth Battalion and participated in the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Xorthend Eiver, Cold Harbor, and Petersburg. He was discharged at Elmyra, New York, in 1865. At the close of the war he returned to Pennsylvania and resumed his trade at Marysville. There he remained until 1875 at which time he went to Illinois, settling in Bureau county and following his trade. In 1879 he came to York county where he worked for some time as a shoemaker and in the same year purchased one hundred and sixty acres of railroad land which he moved onto and began to cultivate. The land was located in Beaver township and was entirely unimproved and he broke the ground himself, also building a small frame house and barn. He also set out an orchard and shade trees and until 1884 engaged in general farming and stock raising. In 1884 he disposed of the land, resumed his trade for a short time and in 1905 retired from active life.

In Perry county, Pennsylvania, Mr. Eeisinger was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Dice, a native of Pennsylvania, and nine children have been born to them, five dying in infancy. The four children living are: F. P., who is residing in Y'ork; J. W., who is farming in York county; Millie, who is the wife of A. H. Trim, engaged in farming in York county; and Herbert, who is engaged in the shoemaking business in Y'ork.

party and it is a well known faet that he is a stalwart champion of any good cause. The duties of dtizensliip have not set lightly upon his shoulders and he served as a member of the county board for one term, 1887, and was a member of the city council several times. He has also taken an active interest in promoting the educational opportunities of his community and to this end was for a number of years school director. Mr. Reisinger is a consistent member of the United Evangelical church in the activities of which organization he takes a prominent part. He is well accounted one of the representative citizens of York and his worth as a man and as a citizen is widely acknowledged, for he measures up to high standards in both connections.

George J. Hurlbut

George J. Hurlbut was for many years engaged in farming on a tract of one hundred and sixty-six acres of excellent land in York county, and it was recognized that the county had lost a valued citizen when he was called to the home beyond in 1912, regret for his demise being very general. He was born at Mishawaka, Indiana, 1843, a son of Harris and Melissa Hurlbut, the former of whom was in legal practice as an attorney in that town for many years and here he and his wife spent the remainder of their lives, being among the earliest settlers in that part of the Hoosier state.

The early days of George J. Hurlbut were passed under the parental roof and he was educated in the common schools of his native town, where he also sjient the first period of his young manhood. Some time later he moved to Lincoln, Illinois, and there became identified with the drug business in partnership with his brother Edward. He then moved to Charles City, Iowa, and resumed his connection with the drug trade, residing in that city for a considerable period and finally, owing to the state of his health, he moved to Nebraska in 1878. He purchased a tract of land and presently engaged in farming and stock raising in York county. The outdoor life of the farmer gave him renewed vigor and he applied himself diligently to the problems of wresting from the soil the Ijest it could yield, and finally succeeded in getting a well-improved place around him, tlie holding containing one hundred and sixty-six acres of excellent land. For a considerable time his life had been one of untiring industry and perseverance, during which he was watchful of every o])portunity and indication pointing toward progress. His death occurred in 1912 and was a source of grief to the large numbers of friends he had made during his residence in York county.

In 1870 Mr. Hurlbut was united in marriage to Adelaide Wilber, born in Rutland Hollow, New York, but the marriage was celebrated in Charles City, Iowa, where her husband was living at the time. They became the parents of four children: Grace, deceased, who married Frank Kibler, of California; William, engaged in the California vineyards; Myron, who farms the home place, and George, of Portland, Oregon. His widow still survives and cherishes her husband's memory, for he was most devoted to the welfare and happiness of his family, ilr. Hurlbut was a faithful member of the Methodist church, in the affairs of which he took a practical interest, as he also did in the Order of Elks. In politics he pursued a line of independent thought and action; not being a seeker after office himself he did not countenance the mere professional politician, but believed in supporting all movements designed to advance the welfare of the community where he had made his adopted home. When the present courthouse at York was being erected he was chairman of the commission appointed to superintend the work and in this capacity gave excellent service.

Montraville Bobbins

Among the pioneer farmers of Nebraska was Montraville Eobbins, whose death occurred in York on the 17th of March, 1917. He was born in Ohio, August 31, 1840, the son of Elijah Eobbins, who came to Indiana in an early day but died in Ohio.

Montraville Bobbins received his education in Indiana and when the Civil war broke out enlisted from that state in the Sixty-eighth Indiana Volunteers with whom he served for three years. He participated in many of the famous battles of that war and was wounded and captured, spending some time in a prison in Kentucky. In 1869 Mr. Bobbins was married and in 1871 removed to York county, Nebraska, Hayes township, as one of the early pioneers. The fall had set in when they arrived in this state and they acquired a homestead some miles from Lincoln. There were few settlers in the vicinity and the country was in a wild and uncultivated state. Their first home was a dugout Init later they succeeded in hauling some timber from Fairmont and built a frame house. This home proved to be a shelter for travelers coming from miles around and many Indians who were out on hunting expeditions stopped here for food. Game was in abundance and Mr. Robbins brought in many elk, deer and smaller game. Whenever it was necessary to replenish their supplies Mr. Bobbins had to travel to Lincoln which trip took three days. In the cultivation of the land they were gratifyingly successful and here they resided until 190-4, watching the growth of the community around them. In 1904 Mr. Bobbins desired to retire from active farm life and he and Mrs. Robbins removed to York where they built one of the finest homes in the town. For thirteen years Mr. Robbins lived here in retirement, although he took an active interest in the affairs of his community, and his death which occurred on the 17th of March, 1917, was a sad blow to his many friends. Mr. Robbins before he died owned eight hundred acres of land which was divided after his death. He also owned four hundred and eighty acres in Hayes county. Mrs. Bobbins is still living and resides in York with her son Harry. She is still in possession of the old homestead and makes frequent visits there.

Montraville Robbins married Miss Martha Sloan, a native of Dearborn county, Indiana, and a daughter of Jesse and Rebecca (Anderson) Sloan, the former born in Maryland and the latter in Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Sloan had come to Indiana in an early day but later removed to Illinois where the latter's death occurred. In 1871 Mr. Sloan removed to Nebraska and settled in York county where he homesteaded until his death. Mr. and Mrs. Bobbins have become the parents of four children: Eva, who is the wife of Irvin Puller, a farmer near McCool ; Lillie, the wife of Edward Hayes who is in the United States mail service

Mr. Eoljbins was a stanch supporter of the repul)lican party and of the principles for which it stands and he held many different township offices. He was a consistent member of the Baptist church and an active worker in the Y^ork G. A. E. He was in every sense of the word a self-made man. When he first started farming his only assets consisted of a team and wagon, indomitable courage and grim determination. He allowed no obstacle to obstruct his way, however, and at the time of his death was the owner of twelve hundred acres of land.

Washington C. Conkle

For many years farming interests of York county found' a worthy representative in Washington C. Conkle, now living practically retired in his home at Benedict. He was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, October G, 1847, a son of Henry and Mary Jane (Whims) Conkle, natives also of the Keystone state, where the father learned the carpenter's trade and followed that line of work for several years. In 1877 Henry Conkle decided to try his fortune in the rapidly developing west and moved to Nebraska, carrying on general farming shortly after he settled. Later he moved to Holt county, and took up a homestead north of O'Neill, Nebraska, where he resumed farming operations, meeting with considerable success, and there he spent the remainder of his life. His wife passed away in Colorado in 1910, being then in her sixty-seventh year. To their marriage twelve children were born, four of whom are living: Washington C, subject of this sketch ; Laure, wife of Andrew Gibson, of Wisner, Idaho; Estella, wife of Thomas Eoy, of Alma, -Texas; and John, living in Washington state. Henry Conkle and his wife were earnest and active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and were ever ready to endorse plans and measures for the moral uplift of the individual or for tlie betterment of the community at large. In politics he voted independently.

Washington C. Conkle received his education in the public schools of Pennsylvania and remained with his parents during his boyhood and youth, engaged for some time in farm work. In 1874, being then in his twenty-seventh year, he came to Nel)raska and worked on farms during the years which covered the grasshopper plague. He succeeded in accumulating sufficient money to enable him to purchase a tract of school land which he presently worked into a .state of cultivation and conducted general farming and stock raising, meeting with considerable success in his agricultural operations. Finally he acquired a place of one hundred and twenty acres, all under excellent improvement, which he turned over to his son Francis E., who now carries on and directs the work on the farm. Aside from his farming interests Mr. Conkle is a stockholder and director of the Farmers Elevator at Benedict and also holds stock in the Benedict Lumber & Fuel Company. While connected with the farm he closely applied himself to the care and management of his property interests and has long ranked with the leading and representative agriculturists of his section of the state.

On October 1, 1877, Mr. Conkle was united in marriage to Isabelle Herron, a native of West Virginia, the marriage ceremony taking place in that state. The first house in which they lived after settling in Morton township was a sod structure and provisions liad to be hauled from York. He put up a well built home in later years which is now occupied by his son. They became the parents of two children: Mina E., who died in infancy, and Francis E., farming the home place. Mrs. Conkle passed away September 12, 1920. being then in her sixty-eighth year and expressions of sympathy and regret at her death were widespread and sincere. She was a faithful member of the Methodist church. Mr. Conkle has always been identified with the democratic party and is a consistent supporter of its principles and policies. There is in his life record nothing spectacular but his career is one that places him among the substantial citizens of this part of the state of Nebraska.

Feed W. Eomsdal

Fred "W. Eomsdal is one of the native sons of Y'ork county who has decided to continue as a resident thereof and operates a farm on section 10, Lockridge township. He was born in York in 1878, a son of John and Mary -(Danielson) Eomsdal, natives of Norway. The father was a miner by ^occupation and commenced working at that occupation in his native country whe'n he was fifteen years of age. In 1869 he and his family set out for America and on reaching this country went to Calumet, Michigan, securing employment in helping to sink the Hecla and Calumet shafts in that region. Later lie moved to Helena, Montana, and worked in the mines.

It was in 1870 that John Eomsdal decided to come west, and making Nebraska his objective settled in York county and is credited with having erected the first log house in this part of the state. He earned money by doing freighting between Lincoln and Fairmont, and subsequently turned his attention to general farming and stock raising. He had previously acquired a tract of land which he proceeded to develop and put into cultivation. After laboring strenuously for some years he succeeded in getting his agricultural affairs into good condition, and having secured to himself a substantial competence he retired from active work in 1899, turning the conduct of the farm over to his son, Fred W. Eomsdal, the subject of this sketch. For a time after his retirement Mr. Eomsdal made his home in York and in 1919 moved to California. His wife died in 1902 in the sixty-fifth year of her age. They were the parents of nine cliildren, those besides Fred W. being: Jacob, living in Iowa; Philip, in North Dakota; Charles, of Hastings, Nebraska; John, deceased; Lena, married and living at Dalton, Nebraska; Eosa, the wife of A. J. Quick, of York county; Mary, the wife of Charles Saudall, of York, and Elizabeth, -ndfe of 0. F. Quick, of Washington. The parents had religious affiliation with the United Brethren church, to the upkeep of which they were liberal contributors. He always voted an independent ticket and served two terms as a member of the board of county commissioners.

Fred W. Eomsdal was reared on the home farm and his boyhood and youth were spent in the acquirement of a district school education and in lielping his father in the labors of tlie farm. He continued along the latter line until 1899, when his father retired from active connection with the holding, and from that date has been keeping the place up to the standard to which his father had brought it. He has effected several valuable improvements and is constantly on the alert for any contrivance that will help to improve cultivation or increase the yield of his fields. In addition to his general farming he gives special attention to the breeding of a choice strain of Poland China hogs, liberal returns from this branch rewarding his labors. His energy and practical industry have placed him in a sound financial position, and he has been immune from the risks which usually accompany a bad season.

In 1900 Mr. Eomsdal was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Miller, a daughter of Oscar Miller, who took a homestead in York county in 1870 and now lives in Washington. To this union four children have been born: Cecil, Earl, John and Fred W., all living witli their parents. The Romsdal family arc members of the United Brethren church and are active in attendance upon its services. He holds fraternal affiliation with the Modern Woodmen of America. In political affairs he usually casts an independent vote. He was appointed to fill an unexpired term as county commissioner, and when that term was completed was re-elected and is now serving his first term. During the many years that he has been active in the affairs of York county he has done his part in bringing about the wonderful developments that have taken place. He has a wide acquaintance and a large number of personal friends.

Charles Simmons Harrison

Charles Simmons Harrison left the impress of his individuality and ability upon the history of Nebraska in large measure. He resided for many years in York and as a minister of the gospel contributed largely to the moral progress of the state, while there was probably no one who did more to develop the horticultural interests of Nebraska than he. His life was indeed one of great activity and usefulness, winning him well deserved honor, and in his passing the most sincere sorrow was felt by all who knew him.

Charles Simmons Harrison was born in the state of New York in 1832. He pursued his education in Illinois and in early life became a resident of the middle west. It was in Huntley, Illinois, that he married Miss Charlotte Cummings, also a native of the Empire state. After his marriage he started out as a young missionary, going to Minnesota in the '.50s, his duties extending over a territory of one hundred square miles in that state. He rode horseback over the entire section and engaged in missionary work there until 1862, when he returned to Huntley, Illinois, where for a short time he occupied the pulpit and was also instrumental in building a church. He next went to Union, Illinois, where he also built a church, and afterward removed to Tipton, Iowa, where lie was instrumental in building three churches. At a later period he took up his abode in Earhille, Illinois, and a church edifice there stands as a monument to his untiring labor and zeal. He remained in Earlville from 1867 until 1872 and during that period built churches at Piano and at Sandwich, Illinois. At the same time he engaged in the nursery business, establishing a nursery in Earlville in 1868 and conducting it successfully in connection with his church work.

wliere he was joined by liis family in 1876. For a number of years he conducted excursions on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in order to bring settlers into Xebrnska, and at the same time continued preaching in York, visiting different homes until it was ]jossible to erect a church building. He was untiring in his efforts in connection with church affairs and his influence in that direction was immeasurable. It was Mr. Harrison who induced the Burlington Railroad to donate forty acres of land in connection with the establishment of an academy, which was conducted for a numlier of years as a high school, while later a college took over the property and eventually the lots were divided and sold. In 1873 Mr. Harrison laid out Arborville for the Union Pacifie Railroad and l.>uilt a church there.

With his removal to Y'ork he brought with him his nursery stock from Earlville, Illinois, transferring it a little at a time, beginning in 1875, and in the course (if years he had developed a splendid nursery, which eventually passed into the hands of his sons. All through his life Mr. Harrison conducted profitable business enterprises and yet devoted much time to the church, accomplishing great good in that connection. In 1881 lie removed to Pueblo, Colorado, and built two or three churches in that state. He afterward went to Boston, Massachusetts, where he acted as financial agent to get money for the academies of the Congregational churches of Nebraska. Removing to Weeping Water, Nebraska, he was there instrumental in freeing the church from its debt during the two or three years of his residence there.

Mr. Harrison also made valuable contribution to the horticultural development of the state. He was greatly interested in fruit raising and was the author of some of the works on the subject which are still used as textbooks in different colleges throughout the United States. He probably did more to develop an interest in horticultural affairs in Nebraska than any other one man and at the time of his death was one of the best known Imrticulturists in the entire country. He was a large man weighing over two hundred pounds, and a man of wonderful strength. He possessed great energy and endurance and his entire life was characterized by an nnf altering industry. He greatly enjoyed manual labor and it was nndorditedly this that led to his splendid physical development. In a word the interests of his life were well balanced, leading to a splendidly rounded character in the line of physical, intellectual and moral progress.

To Mr. and Mrs. Harrison were born three children, of whom two are living: Willard A., of Y'ork, who is president of the Harrison Nursery Company ; and H. S., who was born in Tipton, Iowa, in 1867 and who was married in York, Nebraska, to Miss Maude Chilcote, their home being now in California, where he owns a large orange grove in which his brother, Willard A., is a partner. For the past eight years he has resided in California, while Willard retains his residence in York and manages the nursery business here. The company is now incorporated for five hundred thousand dollars, of which three hundred thousand dollars is paid up. W. A. Harrison is the president, with H. S. Harrison as vice president of the company, E. H. Smith as secretary and treasurer and Ernest Mason as sales manager. They sell their stock all over the western states and the business is one of extensive and gratifying proportions. This was the business that was established and developed through the father, who as age came upon him lost his eyesight and became almost totally deaf, yet in spite of these afflictions he prepared a book on peonies - a work that became recognized as a. standard volume of its kind. A few years before his demise he returned to Boston, Massiichu.setts, thinking that he would retire, but he soon began in a small way to raise plants, as indolence and idleness were utterly foreign to his nature and he could not be content without some occupation. He found this work too slow for him, however, and returned to York, where he established another nursery, which he conducted until about four years prior to his demise, when he sold the business and retired, his death occurring in February, 1919. At his passing Nebraska lost one of its valued pioneers and honored citizens. He had contributed in most notable manner to the growth and progress of the state, leaving the impress of his individuality upon its improvement and development in many ways, especially along horticultural lines, and in the work of moral advancement through his intense activity in the church.

Petee J. Huebeet

Peter J. Huebert, one of the leading agriculturists of York county where his holdings embrace four hundred and sixty acres of valuable land, resides on section 28, Brown township. His birth occurred in York county, February 9, 1876, a son of Johann Huebert and wife, both natives of southern Eussia and now living in Brown township. The parents of Johann Huebert were Peter and Katie (Peters) Huebert, both natives of Eussia, where they were reared and spent all their lives. They had ten cliildi-en, five of whom survive. Johann Huebert received his education in his native land where he resided for the first twenty-two years of his life and in 1874 decided to try his fortunes in the new world. In that year he inmiigrated to America and on coming to Nebraska located in York county, settling on a farm which he now owns and on which he has been living ever since, lield in the highest esteem as a citizen and as one of the pioneer farmers who helped to bring living conditions to the present satisfactory status. He is a man of unassuming dispositi(m and of genuine worth, and his energy in former years and his unquestioned integrity have gained for him the respect of his fellowmen. He was married in York county, to Sarah Buller, and they have become the parents of twelve children, eleven of whom are living. He supports the republican party by vote and influence.

Peter J. Huebert of this review was reared on his father's holding and secured his education in the public schools of York county, dividing his time between the schoolhouse ajul work on the home farm where he assisted until he became of age. He then began agricultural operations on his own account and bought a tract of land wdiich he farmed successfully for years, employing modern methods and machinery and in the cultivation of his crops met with excellent results, annually gathering substantial harvests. As his affairs prospered he added to his original holding and is now the owner of four hundred and sixty acres of land located on section 28, Brown township, all of winch he has brought to a state of splendid improvement, with good buildings and well kept fences, the whole a tribute to his untiring industry and progressive spirit, and he is generally recognized as one of the most prosperous fanners of his township.

In 1906 Mr. Huebert was united in marriage to Miss Lena Goossen, a daughter of Johann Goossen, further reference t» whom is made elsewhere in this work. Jlr. and

Mrs. Huebert have no children of their own but have adopted two children who bear the family name: EJma Huebert and Levi Huebert. They are members of the United Brethren church and take an active part in all church work, as they do in all community movements having for their object the welfare and advancement of the people along legitimate lines. They are widely and favorably known in their part of York county and have an extensive circle of warm frienils who esteem them highly. Mr. Huebert is a republican in his political views but has never aspired to public office. He prefers to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his farming interests which are wisely and carefully directed and as the years pass he is meeting with continued success.

William Zwieg

William Zwieg is an example of what a poor boy with no advantages but his own determination to succeed can do if he possesses brains, perseverance, and the ability for hard work. He was born in Brandenburg, Germany, which is six hours travel from Berlin, on the 2'2nd of August, 18-13. His father, William Zwieg, came to America in 1848, the subject of this review being then but five years of age, and settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin. Sixty-three days were spent in crossing the ocean from Hamburg to New York. In Dodge county the father purchased some good land for one dollar and twenty-five cents an acre, which he cleared and on which he built a nice home. Here he spent the remainder of his life. The mother's death occurred on August 30, 1855, just eight days after the son William was twelve years old. Mr. Zwieg passed away July 4, 1876.

William Zwieg was reared on the pioneer homestead in Wisconsin, receiving a limited education, for it was necessary for him to go to work at an early age. He was but a young man when the Civil war broke out and on the 3d of September, 1864, he enlisted in Co. E, First Wisconsin Cavalry for a period of three years, or for the duration of the war. He was mustered out July 22, 1865. He was active in several small skirmishes and was on his way to take part in the battle of Nashville when his detachment was shut oft by the rebels and did not participate in the battle. He was afterwards on the battle fields of Atlanta, Chattanooga and Franklin, and never received a wound, although he saw many of his comrades shot down when they were standing but three feet from him. After the close of the war he returned to his home in Wisconsin, arriving there at three o'clock in the afternoon of July 26, 1865, and the next morning he shouldered a cradle and cut wheat all day. In the spring of 1869 he set out for Nebraska, coming to Lincoln and from there he walked to York county where he took a soldier's claim of one hundred and sixty acres and he moved onto it, thereby answering the requirements of the homestead law for five years occupancy. He hired a team, went to Lincoln for his wife and while there purchased a yoke of oxen, a cow, a second-hand wagon and a plow. He left his family in a log house on the east side of Beaver township while he returned to his claim and completed the dugout home. This was the family home for a period of two years, at the termination of which time a sod house was built. In the cultivation of his land he had good success and from his seed corn raised a plentiful crop. From Lincoln he brought a washtub full of potatoes ami cut oif tlie cuds which he plautod iu tlie ground. With no further attention his crop iu tlie fall netted tweuty-four bushel sacks of the finest potatoes he had ever seen. To sell his grain it was necessary for Mr. Zwicg to drive his yoke of oxen to Milford and Crete to the mill, and it was 1877 before the road went through and Exeter became the trading point. When ilr. Zwieg iirst came to York county there was not a house where the town of York now stands and he watched the wild country grow from a place witli but few white inhabitants to a rich agricultural country, containing thousands of homes and scores of good towns. Mr. Zwieg is still hale and hearty and is residing on his old homestead with his son William and wife.

On September 23, 1867, Mr. Zwieg was unitcil in marriage to iliss Augusta Schurstine, a native of Wisconsin, whose death occurred in York county. May 8, 1896. Twelve children were born to this union, seven of whom are living: Ida, who is the wife of Tom Kenedy, residing near McCook; Frank, who is engaged in blacksmithing at Blue Vale; Charles, who is farming in York county; William, who is on the old homestead ; Henry, who is engaged in farming in West Blue township; Mrs. Ed. Blum of Beaver township; and Mrs. Henry Heckroat. Mrs. N. Ferguson, and Melinda who married Eobert Brueggeman, are deceased. Three other children died in childhood. Mrs. Zwieg was a stanch member of the Lutheran church.

During the Civil war Mr. Zwieg left the army and went to his home to vote, casting his vote for Lincoln for his second term. He voted for the republican partv until the second term of Cleveland, at which time he gave his allegiance to the democratic party. He voted for Woodrow Wilson in 1916 and is still a stalwart advocate of the party. Mr. Zwieg receives a pension of fifty dollars a month for his service during the Civil war and together with the income from his land is financially independent. The success which Mr. Zwieg has won has come to him as the reward of persistent, earnest labor, and his life illustrates what can be accomplished through individual effort, combined with persistency of purpose.

Joseph Fountaix

Joseph Fountain, who passed away August 31, 1918, made for himself an enviable and creditable position in public regard by reason of the success he achieved in business life and by reason of the straightforward and honorable methods which he always followed. He was born in Waterford. Pennsylvania, July 22, 18-13, and removed with his parents to Illinois, in which state their deaths soon afterward occurred. Mr. Fountain was then adopted and reared liy another family. He made the best of such educational advantages as were offered and in 1863, at the age of twenty-one years, joined Conrpany C, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, at Cairo, Illinois, for service during the Civil war. He enlisted December 21, 1863, and served until receiving his discharge on the 29th of May, 1866, at Houston, Texas. He participated in many skirmishes. At the close of the war he returned to Illinois whore he farmed for one year, after which time he went to Glenellyn, that state, and engaged in the painting business. In 1876 he came to Nebraska and settled in York county where he bought eighty acres of land in Rradshaw town- ship. His first home was built of sod and consisted of one room witli a board floor and dirt roof. He also erected a sod barn. Mr. Fountain broke his land with a horse team. When he came to this county he made the trip from Illinois in a prairie schooner which took him five weeks. He crossed the Missouri river at Plattsmouth, thence coming direct to York county. In addition to the general cultivation of his homestead Mr. Fountain set out a large orchard which was entirely destroyed by hail. For five years he resided on his farm and then removed to Bradshaw where he engaged in painting for a period of eight years. Subsequently he came to Y^'ork and engaged in the painting business with his two sons, building up a fine reputation. They had charge of that line of work in connection with many of the largest and most important buildings of York. In 101.5 he went to Fergus county, Montana, where he homesteaded three hundred and twenty acres, and returned to York in 1017 because of his health. His death occurred on the 31st of August, 1018, and came as a severe loss to the community which recognized his true worth and ability.

In 1868 Mr. Fountain was united in marriage to Miss Emily Rhoacls, in Aurora, Illinois, of which state Mrs. Fountain is a native. They became the parents of six children: Charles F., now deceased: Xorman W., deceased; Ina J., who became the wife of Myron Hurlburt, but is now deceased: Herbert, who is engaged in the painting business in South Dakota; Rollaml, also engaged in the painting business at Trinidad, Colorado; and Cora, who is the wife of Harry Martin, of Lewiston, Montana, a farmer. The Fountain family were reared in the faith of the Congregational cluirch and ^Irs. Fountain still maintains an active interest in the organization.

Mr. Fountain gave his political allegiance to the republican party and had a firm belief in the efficacy of the principles of the party as factors in good government. He held but one public office, however, and that was when he served as constable at Bradshaw. Fraternally he ^Vas a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen to which organization he had belonged for a period of twenty years, and he was also a member of G. A. R. Post Xo. 32, of York. Progressiveness in business and agricultural affairs brought him steadily to the front and his worth as a man and a citizen was widely recognized.

Aug Reetz, who resides on section 31, Stewart township, York county, is the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of prime land and enjoys an excellent reputation as a successful and representative agriculturist. He was born in Germany, December 17, 1867, a son of Carl and Henrietta Reetz, who also were natives of Germany and immigrated to America in 1882. On arriving in tliis country the family came direct to York county and in Stewart township Carl Reetz bought eighty acres of prairie land, for which he paid ten dollars per acre. Here he and his family settled and managed to live in a sod house for some time, while a dugout served for a barn to house the cattle. He broke the land and )ilanted crops as he cleared the place, gradually bringing the holding to a condition sufficient to make it tolerable for the family to live. He also rented land in Thayer township and as his efforts began to meet the success he deserved he purchased an additional eightyacres in Stewart township, all of which was well improved and had a fine set of buildings. Carl Eeetz died December 11, 1918, at the age of eighty-seven. He was held in respect by all who knew him and was regarded as a good citizen and a skillful farmer. His widow passed away December 6, 1920, in her eighty-sixth year. There were six children born to their marriage : William, of Stewart township, a farmer; Ernstine, the wife of Otto Woodke, of Thayer; Aug, subject of this sketch; Anna, wife of Joe Eostler, of Saline county, Nebraska; Amelia, the widow of Anton Eostler, of Wilcox, Nebraska, and Albert, of York county. The parents were faithful members of the Lutheran church and were liberal subscribers to its upkeep.

Aug Eeetz received his education in the schools of Germany and was fifteen years old when he accompanied his parents to America. He helped his father in the work of breaking and reclaiming the homestead and here learned the rudiments of agriculture. Later he worked on neighboring farms by the month and was paid ten dollars per month for his services, continuing in this way for two years. He is now operating one hundred and sixty acres of prime land on which he is doing , general farming, producing crops that it pays to cultivate, while his live stock section is also worked on a profitable basis. His success is entirely due to his own industry and untiring eiforts as he started virtually without any assistance; in fact he is a self-made man, having come to this country empty-handed, but through the opportunities here offered and his industry and good management he has gained financial independence.

'Sir. Eeetz lived with his parents uji to the time of his nmrriage which took place in 1895, in that year taking for his wife Ernstine Hoffmann, a native of Nebraska. They are the parents of one son, Herbert, who lives at home. The family are members of the Lutheran church, in the good works of which they are active and practical and they have won an extensive circle of warm friends throughout the community, being recognized as people of genuine worth whose aim and influence are given on the side of right, progress and improvement. Mr. Eeetz votes independently in political affairs, feeling that freedom of Judgment is sometimes impaired through blind adherence to party.

August C. Dreiee

August C. Dreier, a retired farmer of McCool, now deceased, was born March 26, 1855, in Germany, the son of Christian and Lena (Ebbeke) Dreier, natives of Germany who passed away in that country. When August Dreier was sixteen years of age he came to this country to escape military training, finding his way to Pennsylvania where he was employed on a farm, and later going to West Virginia where he worked one year. He came west and lived in Carroll coimty, Illinois, for two years, after which he came to York county, Nebraska, where he continued as a hired helper until he had saved enough to rent land for his own use. His first purchase was a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved land which he brout,dit to a hiffh state of cultivation. He and his young wife worked hard and

He was married in York county, to Miss Ada S. Soelter, a native of Oakland, Garrett county, Maryland, the daughter of Lewis and Elizabeth (Tekelnburg) Soelter, natives of Germany. Mr. Dreier's father and his wife's fatlier were schoolmates in Germany, a fact which Mr. and Mrs. Dreier discovered in Maryland. To this union were born nine children : Lena, the wife of Homer Fair, of Custer county, Nebraska; Albert A., a teacher in Horton, Kansas; Bertha M., the wife of Henry Miller, of West Blue township, York county; Lillie M., the widow of Edwin Cites, who resides with her mother; Clarence, who is married to Edna DeBoer. and is a fanner in York county ; Ernest, a farmer in York county ; Dora, the wife of Orville Jacks, a farmer in Fillmore county; Frank, who is engaged in farming in York county; and Carl G., who is employed in the Farmers and Merchants Bank in McCool Junction. Mrs. Dreier is very proud of her twenty grandchildren.

In 1007 Mr. and Mrs. Dreier made a trip to his old home in Germany, remained there visiting for two months, and before returning home paid a visit to Berlin. Mrs. Dreier's father had often told her of the conditions and mode of living in Germany and she found that there had not been many changes since his youth. Before his death which occurred January 10, 1914, Mr. Dreier divided his property between his children. He had five eighty-acre tracts the accumulation of which was the fruit of his own toil, as he had no capital with which to begin, did not inherit a penny, and received but fifteen dollars a month at the time of his marriage.

Mr. Dreier was a member of the Lutheran church and his political endorsement was given to the democratic party, kee])ing well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He was always ready to do his share for the service of the community and served as township clerk, school treasurer, and as road overseer for many years. He had the respect and good-will of all who knew him, was faithful in friendship and devoted to the welfare of the family, and his manv sterling traits won for him the confidence and high regard of all with whom he came in contact.

William H. Schoch

William H. Schoch, a leading farmer and stock raiser of Morton township, York county, is the owner of a compact and well kept place and is meeting with signal success in the manairi'nient of his affairs. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, Julv 26, 1853, a son of Daniel and Harriet (Martin) Schoch, who were farming people in that part of the Buckeye state and there spent the renuiinder of their lives.

William H. Schoch was reared on his father's farm in Ohio and was educated in. the common schools of his native county, at the same time helping on the home farm thereby acquiring a sound knowledge of agricultural afPairs. He remained at home until he was twenty-one years old and then went to Tippecanoe county, Indiana, and worked out on farms by the month, continuing thus for four years. At the end of that period he became connected with the car shops at

Lafayette where lie found employment for six years. About that time a desire to return to agriculture took hold of him and in 1886 he removed to Nebraska and settled in Lancaster county, there renting land for five years. He had in all the preceding years been making good use of his earnings and steadily saving with the view to securing a farm of his own. He then purchased one hundred and si.xty acres which now comprise the home farm located on section 27, Morton township, York county, and on this place he now lives. At the time of the purchase there were a few improvements of small value on the place and one hundred and thirty acres of the sod was broken. Mr. Schoch overhauled the entire holding and made many valuable improvements, bringing the farm into the front rank in all respects. He added to the original purchase and is now the owner of two hundred acres of excellent land, all in one hoily, and on which he carries on general farming operations and stock raising. He gives special attention to the breeding of Shorthorn cattle, of which some fine strains are to be found on his place. He is now enjoying a substantial income from his industry and energy, and has the satisfaction of knowing that his farm is the equal in every respect of any of its size in the county. In 1888 Mr. Schoch was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Turner and to them five children were born: Roy, now living in York; Ray, living at home; Carrie; Laura, the wife of Walter Melton, of near Charleston, Nebraska; and Guy, residing in York county. In politics he supports the democratic party and from time to time has been tlie incumbent of various minor offices. He and his wife hold religious affiliation with the Methodist Episco})al church in the affairs of which they take an active and helpful part. Mr. Scli6ch has been a resident of York county during the period of its most active development and expansion, and has been a participant in and zealous worker for that expansion for about thirty-five years, having earned the respect and esteem of countless friends and wellwishers.

John Shaw

John Shaw, a prosperous and progressive farmer, owner of a compact and wellkept farm on section 10, New York township, York county, is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Newcomerstown, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, in 18-51, a son of Jonathan and Carolina (Park) Shaw. His father was born in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and the mother was a native of Newcomerstown, Ohio, and passed away at the early age of thirty-six years. Jonathan Shaw was a plasterer by occupation, having learned that trade in Pennsjdvania and worked at it as an operative in Ohio. In 1858 he moved to Marion county, Iowa, and there purchased a tract of land, which he cultivated, at the same tinu' following his trade of plasterer, and remained in that part of Iowa for fourteen years. In 1872 Jonathan Shaw came to York county and continued to w'ork at his trade, later taking a free claim in section 10 in New York townshij) and became actively engaged in general farming and stock raising, which in due course brought him success and profitable results. He hauled the first lumber from Lincoln and built a combination house composed of sod and frame, and here he and his family lived for several years. He was the father of six children, three of whom are liviuir. He and his wife were members of the Methodist church and earnest attendants on its services. He gave his political support to the republican party but was never a seeker after public office.

John Shaw was reared at home and in the acquirement of his education attended the common schools of Iowa, following which he learned the plasterer's trade from his father and having become expert tinder that training he plastered some of the first buildings in York, his proficiency along this line bringing his services into much demand by house builders and contractors. When he had accumulated sufficient money Mr. Shaw turned his attention to farming and purchased a tract of land on which he commenced agricultural operations, at first on a modest scale but as success attended his business-like efforts he added to his holdings and is now the owner of two hundred acres of well improved land, to the cultivation of which he devotes all his time. The success which he gained in a comparatively short time is quite unusual but amply serves to demonstrate his ability to adapt himself to a new condition and to make it pay.

Mr. Shaw has been twice married. In 1884 he was united in marriage to Esther Egley and they became the parents of three children, namely: Guy Shaw, living on a farm in Cheyenne county; Gertrude, wife of Earl Hiett, of Cheyenne county, and Grace, wife of Fred Schriner, living in Unadilla, Nebraska. Sometime after the death of his first wife Mr. Shaw was married to Hanna Denny, who became the mother of three children: Miles, living on a farm in York county; Blanche, who married Ray Rolton ; and John, who lives at Kimball, Nebraska, engaged in farming. All these children are Jiving and in comfortalile circumstances, the guidance and assistance of the father being a consideralile factor in shaping their welfare. Mr. Shaw casts his ballot in support of the democratic party, whose principles accord with his political beliefs. His fraternal affiliation is with the Modern Woodmen and at all times he consistently gives his influence on the side of moral advancement. He has gained many friends since coming to York county, his salient characteristics being such as never fail to command respect and win regard.

Henry C. Cites

Henry C. Cites who is a retired farmer of York county, was l)orn in Harrison county, Indiana, September 21, 1861, the son of Frederick Cites who was born in Holstein, Germany, and worked there at his trade of nail-making until he came to the United States in the early "50s. When President Lincoln called for volunteers Frederick Cites was one of the gallant men who answered the summons, for he enlisted in Company E, Eighty-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He died from sickness in December, 1863, and was buried in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The mother of H. C. Cites was Harriett (Swift) Cites, a native of Indiana who died when her son was but five years old.

Henry C. Cites lived with his grandmother after the death of his mother, and later made his home with F. M. Stapleton who came to York county at an early day. Mr. Cites bought a farm in Leroy township where he engaged in agrioiltural pursuits until 1893 when he purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Hayes township, which he improved greatly, converting it to a model farm where he lived until two years ago. He then retired and moved to York where he has a nice home at 529

West Fifth street. Since takinp up liis residence in town Mr. Cites has sold his farm and is enjoying a well earned rest. The early days of his life were filled with hardships so well known to the pioneer farmer whose manual lahor took the place of the many devices wliich make farm work comparatively easy today.

Mr. Cites was married in York county to Miss Janette Kingsley, a native of Harrison county, Indiana, the daughter of Absalom and Elizabeth Burns, of Indiana and Germany, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Cites are the parents of four children: Edwin Lee, now deceased, who married Miss Dreier of McCool, and became the father of Mr. Cites' only grandchild; Mabel, the wife of Frank McGregor, a farmer of Leroy townshi]); Frank M. and Helen, who are living at home.

For twenty years after his arrival in York county Mr. Cites gave his attention so unre-servedly to his farm work that he never left the county except on the occasion when he took the girl who afterwards became his wife to Fairmont to the railroad station that she might take the train to vi,«it her people in Kansas. However, later in 1915 when leisure was i^ermitted him, he took a trip to the Pacific coast, visiting many im])ortant places in the west, and covering over seven thousand miles.

Mr. Cites is a republican in politics. He lias held many minor township offices and is now filling a vacancy by appointment on the county board of supervisors. He has a record of honesty and uprightness, always applying the Golden Rule to his dealings with business associates and neighbors, owing not a dollar to any man and content in the knowledge that he possesses sufficient wealth to care for him the rest of his days.