York County, Nebraska - Biographical sketches, 1921 (part 7 of 13)

John Jacob Hubenbecker

John Jacob Hubenbccker, a former sailor and farmer, is now living retired at McCool Junction, York county, Nebraska. He was born in the free city of Lubeek, Germany, April 18, 1850, the son of David and Magdalena Hubenbecker who passed away in that country when, he was but three years old. He was reared by relatives in the city of Hamburg, where as a boy he used to watch the sailboats passing on the canal until he became so attached to them that he decided to go to sea. When he was fourteen years old he became apprenticed to serve three years as a sailor, for which he received the sum of thirty pounds, equivalent to about forty dollars a year. He became a good sailor and was fascinated by the roving life, cruising in many waters and visiting many foreign ports, including Florida, Cuba and Havana. During the Franco-Prussian war in 1871 he was on a vessel plying on the coa.st of China and Japan and for forty months had his headquarters at Yokohama. On one occasion while the ship "Vieksburg" was sailing between New- York and Florida a dense fog was encountered and the ship broke in two, one of the crew losing his life. Soon after this Mr. Hubenbecker gave up the life of the sailor, though he was very fond of the sea and often wished he might become the owner of a vessel. Even after he came west he thought that when he had saved five thousand dollars he would buy a ship, but when he had become prosperous and the possessor of more than that amount a friend reminded him of his often repeated wish, to which he replied, "Now I am too old." The strenuous life of the sea held its charm for him, however, and he often recounts the adventures he experienced in the days when each sailor was given ten minutes in which to dress and be on deck.

He had to furnish his own clothes and Ijedding and was aUowed a small space for a bunk which was all he could call his own. In case of a storm or hurry call the sailors often went on deck clad only in their woolen underwear and in one instance Mr. Hubenbecker tells of his shirt being torn to pieces and blown otf when he climbed the rigging during a storm.

He had a brother somewhere in America who was a stone-cutter by trade, but never succeeded in locating him. He thought of following his brother's trade but was advised that owing to his unsound lungs it would be unwise as the dust might injure his health. He went to Cleveland, Ohio, and shoveled coal in loading steamers, which meant handling from seventy-five to one hundred tons a day, for which he received the sum of one dollar and a half a day. After two years spent in this work he came to Nebraska and in the winter of 1878-9 went to McFadden township, York county, where he bought one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved railroad land and engaged in agricultural pursuits there for many years. His first home was an upright board shanty which the Nebraska wind destroyed and another was built in its place with the addition of a sod roof and sod walls built around it to withstand the havoc of the wind. In 1881 the crops were good and the little home was enlarged to sixteen by twenty-four feet. Later as Mr. Hubenbecker prospered he replaced this crude structure by a frame house and added the necessary buildings of shelter for the stock. This nicely improved farm has been his home until six years ago when he moved to MeCool Junction and retired from active labor. Recently he sold the tract of land that was formerly his home but still owns two hundred and forty acres of tine land, which is his proof of triumph over the hardships and privations endured as a pioneer settler.

He was married in New York city to Dorothea Stein, a native of Hessen, Darmstadt, Germany, who passed away twenty-two years ago leaving five children : Dorothea ; Henry, an attorney at Sioux City, Iowa ; Marie : Emma ; and John, a doctor practicing at Morse Bluff, Nebraska.

Mr. Hubenbecker has during his leisure time devoted his moments to modeling a sailing vessel. It is a work of art, carefully cut out of wood with a pocket knife, with sixteen sails that appear to be filled with wind. This little ship is said to be perfect and the creation of it no doubt gave the old sailor much pleasure in the hours when he could recall his sea-going days.

Mr. Hubenbecker is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is independent, voting for men and measures without regard to party ties. As a result of a life of perseverance and diligence he has obtained a comfortable competence, and is in a position to enjoy the remainder of his days in comfort. -

Albert A. Metz

Albert A. Metz who is engaged in the undertaking business in York was born in Seward county on the 26th of November, 1880, the son of John and Elizabeth (Anderson) Metz, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania. In early life they came to Seward county where they met and \vere married, farming in that county for many years. They retired about 1905 and removed to Seward where they are now residing, he being seventy-two years of age and she sixty. When Mr. John

Metz came to Seward county he was a poor boy and he has worked his way to success practically unaided. They are consistent members of the United Brethren church and he is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Three children were born to them, two of them still living, namely : Albert A., the subject of this review; and Mabel, who is the wife of Bert Kirk,. an oilman of Topeka, Kansas.

Albert A. Metz received his education in the country schools of Seward county and later entered the Western Normal College at Shenandoah, Iowa. He then entered the Lincoln Business College and took a commercial course with the result that he soon obtained a position with the Deering Harvester Company. He severed connections with this firm and removed to Seward where he entered into the furniture and undertaking business with W. H. Moore, remaining for a period of five years. In 1905 he came to York and for three years was engaged in like business with Al White, at the termination of this time selling out the furniture and engaging exclusively in undertaking. In 1914 he took into partnership with him Olin Hitchcock, the firm name becoming Metz & Hitchcock, and they have a large business. AVhen he first started in this business he took some cour.ses in the Barnes School of Embalming in Chicago and there is no phase of the business with which he is not familiar.

In 1902 Mr. Metz was united in marriage to Miss Olga Oppenheimer who was born in Iowa and whose parents are now residing in Shenandoah, that state. Three children have been born to this union : Don, aged seventeen years, who is in school : Dorothy, aged thirteen years: and Jean, four and one-half years of age.

Mr. Metz gives his political allegiance to the republican party in which he has always been very active. For two terms he served York county as county treasurer and is county central committee-man of his party at the present time. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Masons, in whicli he has attained the thirty-second degree; the Knights of Pythias, which he has served as past chancellor commander; the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks; Odd Fellows; Woodmen; Ben Hur and Royal Highlanders. Although the greater part of his time is devoted to business he lias not forgotten that there are duties of citizenship demanding his attention and he is one of the most active members of the Rotary Club. In social affairs he and his wife are also prominent and they are members of the York Country Club.

Charles A. Wonderly

Charles A. Wonderly. who has been living retired in Benedict for several years, was long and actively identified with agricultural pursuits in York county and is still the owner of a tract of valuable land. His birth occurred in Jackson Hall, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, January 27, 1843, a son of John and Anna (Ma well) Wonderly. John Wonderly was born in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, and lived to the great age of ninety years. His wife was born in Lancaster^ Pennsylvania, and passed away in 1866, being then in her sixty-sixth year. He was reared on a farm and worked for a time in a store at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and later carried on a country store on his own account and served as postmaster for fifteen years. The great-grandfather on the paternal side came originally from Prussia, was a printer by trade and conducted the Lancaster County Press for forty years, the journal at tliat time being one of the few papers circulated in that district. The maternal grandfather was a native of Ireland, at the time of his departure being but twelve years old. John Wonderly devoted most of his active years to mercantile pursuits. In 18-54 he and his wife moved to Illinois and were among the pioneers of that period in the state, and it was there many of their cliildren were born and reared. The children were as follows : Sarah E., now living iu Jefferson, Iowa, aged eighty-five; F. M., living in Mendota, Illinois; John, Anna L. and Mary E., all died some years ago; Charles A., the subject of this sketch; Joseph P., died at the age of twelve; William H., living in Mendota, Illinois; Clara and David, both deceased; and Emma Iv., a widow, also living at Mendota. He was a member of the Lutheran church and his political adherence was given to the democratic party. His wife was a member of the Episcopal church, in the teachings and practices of which .she was a firm believer.

Charles A. Wonderly was reared in his father's home and secured his early education in the public schools of Pennsylvania, later, on moving to Illinois, attending the Henderson Institute at Mendota for one year. He worked on the home place assisting his father and later was employed as foreman of a lumber yard at Rock Falls, Illinois, continuing his connection with the lumber business for five years. In 1879 the lure of the west attracted him to Nebraska and he settled in York county. He started farming three miles west of York and later rented land east of Benedict which he operated for fifteen years, during these years, by thrift and industry, placing himself in a position to buy a tract, and he ultimately secured a quarter section of land. He put all his energy into the development of his holding, living in the beginning of his occupancy in a sod house. Finally his practical and progressive methods bore fruit and he rapidly came to the front as one of the foremost farmers in that section of the county. He still owns the land but has in recent years retired from active participation in carrying on the affairs of the farm, is now living in comfortable surroundings in Benedict, and is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator at that jalace.

On December 31, 1884, Mr. Wonderly was married to Clarissa E. Guunell, of Marston, Illinois, a daughter of John Gunnell. The marriage was celebrated at York, and has been blessed with four children : Grace E., wife of John B. Ellis, who operates the old Wonderly farm ; Jennie, living at home ; Mary Winifred, at home; and Robert Wayne, now six years old, also at home. Mrs. Wonderly is a member of the Methodist church and her aid and influence have always been directed for the advancement of the moral welfare of the community. Mr. Wonderly ca.sts an independent vote and at all times his attitude has been that of a public-spirited citizen, willing to subordinate private interests to the general good and entirely free from self-seeking ambitions or the taint of cheap popularity.

James Wolstenholm

James Wolstenholm, who is a respected and valued resident of York county, and who now lives retired in McCool Junction, was born in Peoria county, Illinois, January 18, 1854, the son of John and Hannah (Lonsdale) Wolstenholm, mention of whom is found elsewhere.

He came to York county with the family when lie was a hoy and witnessed the hardships and privations that were the lot of the pioneer farmer. When he became of age he pre-empted eighty acres of land on section twenty-six of McFadden township, and his first home was like that of the early settlers, a little dugout on the side of a hill. After years of well directed eilort, perseverance and hard work, he became a prosperous agricultvirist and the little farm was improved and enlarged until it covered four hundred acres. A few years ago Mr. Wolstenholm sold this property and bought one hundred acres of land adjoining the town of McCool Junction, which he has improved with a new set of farm buildings making it one of the ideal country homes of the county. He rents the land and is living retired.

Mr. Wolstenholm was married September 28, 1878, in McFadden township, to Miss Mary Wullbrandt, the daughter of Charles H. and Fredericka (Hollock) WuUbrandt, early settlers of the township who have since passed away, mention of whom is made elsewhere in this review. Mr. and Mrs. Wolstenholm have become the parents of seven children : C. E., who is married, and resides in Califoi-nia ; William, of Hayes township. York county, who is married: Elva, who lives at home : Jesse J., a resident of Hayes township, York county, who is married ; Richard E., who was a soldier in tlie World war, now at home; Harry E., who is married and lives in Hayes township; and Mabel E.^ who lives at home.

Mr. Wolstenholm is interested in any project for the upbuilding of the community where he resides and has held several township offices including assessor of the county and membership on the school board. He stands today as one of the most prosperous and substantial citizens, and looking back to the days of the pioneer farmer he shouhl have the satisfaction of feeling that he has had a part in bringing about the prosperous conditions which now prevail.

Dietrich Teinert

Dietrich Teinert, one of the prosperous and progressive farmers of McFadden township, York county, was horn in Westphalia, Prussia, (iermany, August -i, 1851, the son of Andrew and Gertrude Teinert, natives of the same place. The father died when the son was fourteen years of age. The mother died in York county, Nebraska, the same year the family located here.

Dietrich Teinert attended the public schools of his native place and as a boy was taught by his grandfather to care for milch cows, attend to crops and swing the scythe with much skill, and worked on the threshing machine, for which he received ten cents a day. He also spent ten years as a stone-cutter. When nine years old he suffered an attack of black typhoid fever which affected his hearing. It was quite annoying to him when a boy in school to have the teacher ask him a question which he did not hear and then ask him if he were dreaming. The family lived in a village and he was excused from military duty because his mother was a widow and his services were needed in the support of the family.

In 1882 Mr. Teinert and a brother-in-law, Henry Karre, came to the United States and to York county, Nebraska, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres on section 5, McFadden township. The first year the two families occupied the liouse that stood on the place but the next year Mr. Teiuert erected a dwelling on his own laud and this is one of the finest country homes in this part of the county. Other suh.«tantial buildings make his one of the well improved farms of the neighborhood. Mr. Teinert has given considerable attention to the raising of pure bred horses and has owned some very fine animals. He has l)oeii successful in his farming operations and is the owner of four hundred acres of land. Having shifted the active work to younger shoulders he is now living retired.

In Germany Mr. Teinert was married to Miss Marie Eddlchrook, a native of the same place as her husband, born there September 20, 1856, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Eddlebrook, who became residents of York county several years ago, and here the mother passed away while the father is living at the age of eighty-five years, making his home with Mr. and Mrs. Teinert. Mr. and Mrs. Teinert have become the parents of nine children, three of whom died in childhood. Those living are: Lizetta, the wife of Joe Shafer, residing in Missouri; Marv, who married George Shafer and lives in Minnesota; Henry, lives at home; Eda is the wife of William Stuck, living in Minnesota; Harry William, who is at lionie, and Anna, the wife of Clarence Foster, of York county.

Mr. Teinert was possessed of about twenty-four hundred dolhirs when he landed in America and the success that has come to him is the result of his own well directed efforts and perseverance. He is one of the substantial men of the county and is a good citizen and neighlior. The family are memliers of the Lutheran church and held in the highest esteem bv all who know them.

George A. Thompson

George A. Thompson, deceased, was for many years a prominent farmer in York county. He was born in Green county, Wisconsin, March 21, 1862, and his death occurred on the 10th of September, 1918, in York county on his farm. He was a son of Alden B. and Mary E. Thompson, the fonner a native of Maine and the latter of Xew York state. At an early day the father removed to Wisconsin where he purchased some land and in 1873 he came to Hamilton county, Nebraska. Here he acquired a homestead where he resided for a number of years and then went to Montana where he died at the age of eighty-six years. The mother is still living and makes her home in Kalispell, Montana. She is now eighty-nine years of age. Nine children were born to this union, six of whom are living, Frank who is engaged in the hardware business at Edgar, being the only child besides (ieorge A. residing in Nebraska.

In the acquirement of an education George A. Thompson attended the district schools of Wisconsin and Hamilton county. He was reared on a farm and after putting his textbooks aside it seemed only natural that he should choose to follow that line of work. He owned a farm in Hamilton county whereon he resided for some time but in 1009 came to York county where he purchased land on which he remained until his death. He .started life on practically nothing but had a strong determination and was not afraid of hard work. His land soon became some of the finest in the county and in addition to general farming he engaged extensively in cattle and stock raising. As he progressed his opportunities and advantages increased and he gathered to himself the rewards of a well spent life. When his death occurred on the 10th of September, 1918, the community suffered a great loss.

On the 26th of November, 1891, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage to Miss Dillie Ely, a native of Monroe, Wisconsin, and a daughter of David and Mary C. (Starr) Ely. Her father was born in Green county, Wisconsin, while her mother was born in Illinois. Their marriage was celebrated in Wisconsin and the father engaged in farming in that state ixntil 1873 when he removed to Hamilton county, Nebraska. Here he acquired a homestead and resided until 1913 when he went to Sutton in Clay county where he located and remained until his death in April, 1919. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Ely six children were born: Mrs. George A. Thompson, the widow of the subject of this review; Mrs. Fay Copsey, whose husband is a retired farmer residing in York; Thurman H., who is farming near Broken Bow; Mrs. Rose Hagemeister, who resides in Potter; Arthur G., who is a cattle man and rancher residing at Sun River, Montana; and Walter D., a farmer of Stockham and also a grain buyer and in the elevator business. The Ely family were consistent members of the Christian church and the father was a republican in politics. He was fraternally connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. ]\Ir. and Mrs. Thompson became parents of two children, namely: Mary Ethel and Floyd C. Mary Ethel received her education in the country schools and later attended Sutton high school and the York college. She is now teaching in the York schools. Floyd is farming near Stockham. He obtained his education in the rural schools and later took a commercial course at York College.

Throughout his life Mr. Thompson was a stanch supporter of the republican party and fraternally was affiliated with the Woodmen. He was likewise a member of the Congregational church and his widow is still prominent in the various church activities. For one year Mrs. Thompson remained on the farm after her husband's death. At the end of that time, however, she removed to York and purchased her present home at 802 East Fifth street. During the World war Mrs. Thompson took a prominent part in the various activities of the community and her son Floyd entered into service in the fall of 1917. His branch of service was the aviation and he w-as stationed at both Kelly and Wright Fields. The armistice was signed before he got across and he was discharged at Montgomerj-, Alabama, in March, 1919.

Olin Hitchcock

Among the prominent citizens of York county is Oliu Hitchcock, junior partner in the undertaking firm of Metz & Hitchcock. He is a native of Shoals, Indiana, having been born in that place, May 1-5, 1883, a son of James F. and Dora (Beaver) Hitchcock. The father was born in Canton, Ohio, on the 15th of Februarv, 1850, while the mother was born in Indiana, December 27, 1853. In their early life they went to Indiana where they met and were married. For some time Mr. Hitchcock engaged in farming in Martin county, Indiana, but in 1882 removed to York county where he purchased some railroad land. For thirty years he resided on this land and in 1910, desiring to retire from any kind of active life, he removed to York and here they are still living, respected and prominent citizens. On the last farm owned by Mr. Hitchcock many improvements were made and a modem home erected, having electric lights, steam heat and other comforts of the city home. He did not sell this place until 1915. Seven children were born to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock, five of whom are living, namely: Olin, the subject of this review; E. C, a traveling salesman residing in Kansas City, Nebraska; Dwight, who is with the Pacific Electric Railway Company of Los Angeles ; Mrs. Wayne Soper, whose liusliand is principal of schools at Eagle ; and Gladys, who is teaching school in Y'ork. Mr. Hitchcock is a consistent member of the United Brethren church, as is also his wife, and he is a member of the democratic party.

In the acquirement of his education Olin Hitchcock attended the public schools of York and in due time entered York college. His initial step into the business world was in 191.3 when he entered the undertaking business. To prepare himself for this work he entered the Worsham School of embalming in Chicago and became familiar with every detail. In 1914 he sold out his business and entered into partnership with Mr. Metz. They have the only undertaking business in York.

On the 22nd of September, 1904, Mr. Hitchcock was married to Miss Edith M. Montsmith, who is a native of York county. Her father was Henry Montsmith, one of York county's earliest pioneers. To the imion of Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock two children have been born, namely: Helen V. who is eight years of age; and Ree Maribel, aged four months.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Hitchcock the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the democratic party and the principles for which it stands. He served York county as coroner for two years, from 1914-1916. When elected to this office he carried the county by three hundred votes which well demonstrated his popularity, for normally there was a republican majority of seven hundred or eight hundred. Fraternally he is a member of the Elks; Knights of Pythias; Royal Highlanders; and Odd P'ellows. He and his family are members of the United Brethren church in which they take an active part and Mr. Hitchcock is regarded as a leading and progressive citizen of the community.

Dietrich D. Epp

Dietrich D. Epp, who is successfully engaged in farming and stock raising in Henderson township, York county, was born on the 10th of June, 1884, in this county, his father being Heinrich H. Epp, who is mentioned at length on another page of this work. The son spent his youthful days under the parental roof and at the usual age began his education in the public schools, while later he spent one term as a student in a college at Newton, Kansas. During vacation periods he worked in the fields and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. He continued at home until he had attained his majority and then began farming on his own account, taking up the work of cultivating the place upon which he now resides on section 14, Henderson township. As the years have passed he has become the owner of a valuable property, having today three hundred and twenty acres of finely improved land. He follows the most progressive methods in the cultivation of his fields and the care of his crops

In 1907 Mr. Epp was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Epp, who, though of the same name was not a relative. To them have been born five children : Elbert E., born April 2, 1908: ^A'. H., born February 3. 1910: Edward H., born March 10, 1913; Arthur R., born December 5, 1915; and Elsie M., born October 30, 1918.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Epp are members of the Betliesda church of Henderson and are loyal followers of its teachings, wliile to its support they make generous contribution. In politics Mr. Epp is a republican and is now serving as supervisor of Henderson township. He has also tilled the office of township assessor for four years and at the present time is acting as school treasurer of his district. He started out in life without financial assistance and liy industry and energy has steadily worked his way upward, overcoming all difficulties and obstacles in his path and winning a place among the prosperous farmers of his section of the state.

Edward D. Copsey

Edward D. Copsey. deceased, was for many years a prominent farmer of York county, and his death which occurred on the 8th of August, 1917, came as a great shock to his friends. He was born in Herkimer county, Xew York, in 18-11, the son of John and Mary (Talbott) Copsey, both of whom were natives of England. They removed to Wisconsin before the outbreak of the Civil war and there engaged in farming. Edward Copsey, was one of their seventeen children, fourteen of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. While a boy he attended the country schools in Wisconsin receiving such education as these facilities offered.

On the outbreak of the Civil war, Edward Copsey enlisted with the Eighth Wisconsin Regiment, which was famous as the eagle regiiuent. At the completion of this term of enlistment, he joined a New York regiment. During the four years of the war he was engaged in active service and participated in many important battles, among them being Vicksburg, luka and Corinth. On receiving his discharge at the close of the war Mr. Copsey returned to Wisconsin but soon turned his face westward. He arrived in York county in 1867, securing a homestead upon which he built a log house. After spending about a year on this claim he became homesick for Wisconsin and returned to that state. In 1870, however, he again made the long trip by wagon back to York county, enlarging his farm by purchasing railroad land. He was successful in the cultivation of his land and after a few years built a frame house. During the early days of pioneering supplies were hauled from Nebraska City, a distance of about one hundred and twenty miles. In 1870 the Burlington and Missouri Railroad was built through Sutton, which furnished a market only eleven miles away. There were numerous Indians in the country in the early days, for the most part inclined to be friendly. At one time three thousand of them accom]ianicd by a white man passed the homestead. However, the community soon became settled and civilized and after twenty-five years of hard though successful work on the farm, Mr. and Mrs. Copsey retired to York, where his death occurred. In October, 1867, Mr. Copsey was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Henderson, a daughter of David and Helen (Brown) Henderson, both natives of Scotland.

Mrs. Copsey is a sister of Robert Henderson, mention of whom is made elsewhere ia this work. To this union four children were born: Fay D., who farmed until 1913 when he retired and lives in York; Nellie, the only daughter, is the wife of W. M. Welsh, who is agent for the Burlington at Central City: Robert, the third member of the family, is mentioned elsewhere in this work; and Hugh, the youngest, lives in Lincoln and is a conductor with the Burlington Railroad. Mrs. Copsey still resides in York and takes an active interest in all its affairs.

Mr. Copsey was always a stanch supporter of the repulilicaii i)avty, and a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Repulilic. He was a loving husband and a kind and devoted father, who found his greatest happiness in providing for the welfare of his family. The salient traits of his character were snch as won for him the highest regard and si'oodwill of all.

John Wholstenholm

John Wholstenholm, now deceased, was lifirn in Lancashire, England, April 27, 1888, the son of William and Martha (Aspinwall) Wholstenholm, who spent their lives in England. John Wholstenholm was reared in his native town and owing to the financial circumstances of his parents was obliged to go to work in the cotton mills at the age of eight years, where he received the sum of one shilling for his week's labor. When he reached the age of twenty-five years he had become a very capable carder but as he was an ambitious youth he was not satisfied with this sort of career, so he sailed to America in 1850, landing at New Orleans. Later he made his way to Peoria, Illinois, where he found employment on a farm, receiving thirteen dollars a month which he considered a large salary.

On August 15, 1862, he enlisted in Company K of the Seventy-seventh Illinois A-^olunteer Infantry, and served throughout the war, taking part in many important engagements in the war in the west. He saw service at Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post, Magnolia Hills, Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, Vicksburg, Jackson, Mansfield, Kane River, Marksville, Yellow Bayou, Fort Gaines, Spanish Fort, Blakeley, Whistler Station, and was in other important skirmishes. He encountered many dangerous situations but was never wounded nor taken prisoner, though he would have sold his chances for a small consideration many times. On one occasion he was struck by a spent rifle bullet which pierced two thicknesses of his leather belt and was stopped by his cartridge box. When the war was over he received his discharge at Mobile, AJabanui, July 10, 1865, and was mustered out at Springfield, Illinois.

In 1871 he came to Nebraska and filed on a claim in McFadden township, where he secured a quarter section under the laws relating to soldiers claims under the homestead act. In 1874 his sod house was replaced by a two-story frame house which was considered a most imposing residence at that time. The new settler found no water in that locality except in the basins, but Mr. Wholstenholm foresaw this difficulty and came prepared with tools and immediately drilled a well. As neighbors began to congregate he found well drilling a paying occupation, and many of the best farm wells in this region are the result of his labors. At that time Lincoln was the nearest trading post for the people of this vicinity and as it was fifty miles distant going to market was an inconvenient undertaking. There were no roads on the prairie and on one occasion wlien the neighbors had exhausted their supply of flour, Mr. Wholstenholni started for the mill which was about eight miles distant, to get more flour, and lost his way and as the sun was hidden by clouds he became confused as to the directions. Three days passed before he returned with four sacks of flour, during which time the neighbors lived on crushed corn, and his coming was the event of a demonstration of joy. He relates that when the settlers were coming in rajiidly and the land was being taken correspondingly fast he started for Fairmont one morning to do some trading, taking the usual path, and before he had noticed anything unusual about the path he had driven across an elevation on the ground which proved to be the dugout home of a newcomer. The man came out and talked to him, saying that he had lived there for two weeks in his little cave covered with a roof of sf)d. Mr. Wholstenholm remained on his homestead converting it into a splendid farm home, adding one hundred and sixty acres to the property which he later divided between his two sons.

Mr. Wholstenholm was married to Miss Hannah Lonsdale, who was born in his native town in England. She was the daughter of Thomas and Helen (Halsted) Lonsdale, and passed away in 1875. Mr. Wholstenholm later married Mrs. Hannah Eamsden who has since passed away. Of his eight children, four are living : James, of McCool Junction ; Miles, a farmer in West Blue township, York county ; Ellen, the wife of Charles Prescott, who resides at Merna, Nebraska ; and Alice, the wife of C. E. Seeger, of Merna, Nebraska. .

Mr. Wholstenholm took much interest in the Grand Army of the Republic Post at Lushton, of which he was a member. In politics he was independent, voting for the men he considered best qualified to fill the offices, and for the measures he deemed most wise. After many years of active life on the farm he retired and moved to McCool Junction where his death occurred in March, 1899.

Mr. Wholstenholm was a man who never allowed obstacles nor difficulties to discourage nor deter him, but regarded them as an impetus for renewed effort on his part, and as the years passed his progress continued until at the time of his death he was one of the most prosperous and prominent men in the county, with a host of friends who regarded him as a man of sterling worth and splendid principles.

Nels B. Swanson

Nels B. Swanson, one of the early settlers in York founty has by his own efforts become one of the prosperous residents in York, where he lives retired. He was born in Sweden, March 4, 1848, the son of Swan Nelson and Kauer Jepson Nelson who owned a little farm in the old country where he spent his yt)uthful days and helped with the farm work.

In 1871 he came to the United States making his way to Johnson county where he found employment on a farm and later rented land and farmed there and in Henderson county, Illinois. In 1879 he came to York county, Nebraska, and bought eighty acres of raw land where the town of Charleston is now located. Here he built a sod house with a board roof, which, after it was whitewashed and plastered, made a very comfortable little home. When the Northwestern railroad was built he sold a portion of his land to the towusite compan}-, keeping the land in section seventeen, Baker township, which he improved and made one of the best farms in the county. Here he engaged successfully in farming his two hundred and forty acres until eleven years ago, when he retired and moved to York where he has a comfortable home at 827 West Fourth street. Besides this property he still owns his farm of two hundred and forty acres.

On October 6, 1877, he was married to Miss Carrie Pierson who was born in Sweden, October 24, 1849. To them were born the following children : Alma, the wife of Claude Swanson who operates his father-in-law's farm ; Hulda, who is a clerk at the Middlebrook store at York; Selma and Oscar who have passed away: Mabel, who is a teacher in Lincoln; Viola, the wife of Arthur W. Thompson, a noted auctioneer of York: and Clara, who is teaching at Shickley, Xebraska.

In politics Mr. Swanson is not bound to any party but votes for men and measures, taking into consideration the qualifications of the men and the advisability of the measures. He is always willing to do all he can for the service and betterment of his community and has served on the county board of supervisors and on the school board for several years. Mr. Swanson may well be proud of the success he has gained, for he has risen entirely by his own effort, having but two dollars and a half when he landed in this country. His progress and the success he has earned should serve to encourage others, for his life has proved that his prosperity is the result of individual effort and ability.

Simeon Staek

Simeon Stark, a well known farmer of York county, residing on section 4, Bradshaw township, now owns two hundred and eighty acres of valuable farming land and enjoys an excellent reputation as a successful and representative agriculturist. He was born in Boone county, Iowa, November 24, 1856, a son of Jesse Stark and wife, the former a native of Indiana.

The father was one of the early settlers of Iowa, where he was reared and educated and spent many years of his active life engaged in farming. In 1875 he left Iowa and made the journey to Nebraska accompanied by the members of his family, coming straight to York county and settling in Arborville township, where he rented land for two years. In 1877 Mr. Stark acquired a holding of his own on section 4, Bradshaw township, consisting of eighty acres, for which he paid about six hundred dollars. There was a sod house upon the ground, part of which was broken for tillage, and there he continued to reside for about fifteen years during this period improving and developing the place with satisfactory financial results. In 1890 he moved to Frontier county and bought a homestead on which he resided for the remainder of his life, his death occurring in March, 1910, at the age of seventy-seven years. He married Winnie Mitchell and they became the parents of thirteen children, eight sons and five daughters, and eight of these children are living. Mrs. Winnie Stark passed away in March, 1919, having then reached the age of ninety years. They were very worthy people, esteemed by all who knew them, no less for their homely virtues than for their stability and uprightness of character.

Simeon Stiii'k was reared on his father's farm in Towa and there assisted in the work during his boyhood and youthful days. His opportunity for securing aa education was very limited as the school term at that date did not last more than three months, but he availed himself of the advantages such as they were. In 1875 he accompanied his parents to York county and remained on the home place until he was twenty-one years old when he began to work out on neighboring farms at seventeen dollars a mouth, so continuing for two years. He saved enough money to buy a team of horses, a wagon and a plow, and then began work on his own account by renting land, his industry and energy- being rewarded at the end of four years with a large measure of success. The favorable results of his renting operations induced Mr. Stark to purchase forty acres of land which he still owns. He secured this tract by making an initial payment of only forty dollars, the purchase conditions calling for seven dollars an acre, which was tiien the standard price for railroad land. There was a sod house already on the place and he lived on the holding for twelve months, "baching" it during that period. He then bought another forty acres on which fine buildings now stand, first putting up a sod house, wiiich he later replaced by a small frame. He is now the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of most productive land, all well improved, having two fine sets of buildings and trees scattered over the entire acreage. His crops have been iiniformly successful and in the raising and marketing of stock he has had equally satisfactory results. He has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and everything about his place indicates careful supervision and progressive methods.

On September 1, 1881, Mr. Stark was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth C. Lockwood and they have become the parents of eight children: William Lester; Winnie F., the wife of J. C. Gray; Simeon L. ; Dora Elizabeth; Wesley E. ; Viola, the wife of Elmer Cash; Millie A.; and Harold L., who died at the age of five. Mr. Stark is a member of the First Baptist church of York and in politics gives his support to the democratic party, without seeking or desiring public office. He and his wife are actuated by a spirit of progress and enterprise in all they undertake and their interest deeply centers in those affairs which promise to upbuild and develop further the section of the state in which they live.

Otto E. Evans

Otto E. Evans is now living retired in York but for many years was active along commercial and industrial lines and also for .some time filled public office. He was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, November 2, 1865, and is a son of E. N. and Eliza (Dorr) Flvans, both of whom were natives of Maine, and they were married there, having removed to that state in 1819. The father engaged in the lumber business there and was connected with three or four .'^awmill enterprises of the state, successfully conducting his business affairs. He came to Nebraska in April, 1879, and settling in York was engaged in the lumber business for a time but retired soon after his removal to this state, spending his remaining days in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He passed away in 1906 in the faith of the Presbyterian church, in which he had long been a consistent member and active worker. In politics he was a republican and served on the village board in North York and was also active in consolidating the two towns of York and Xorth York. To him and his wife were horn three children, of whom (ine dicil in infancy, while Fred passed away in 1898.

The surviving niemher of the family is Otto E. Evans of this review, who pursued his education in the schools of York and in the Methodist Seminary of this city. He started out in the liusiness world as a clerk in the store of his uncle and for a time was employed in a hank. He afterward worked in the office of the county clerk and county recorder and later conducted a paint and wall paper husiness in York. He is an expert mechanical draftsman and followed the business for a number of years. His father was also a mechanical engineer of some note and Otto E. Evans took up drawing soon after completing his jjublic school education. He is now living a retired life and for some time has engaged in no active business pursuit. At present he is erecting a lieautiful home at Xo. 2300 Lincoln avenue and the success he has attained enables him to supply himself with all of the comforts and conveniences of life.

Mr. Evans is an attendant on the Pi-esl)yterian church. He belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, his membership being in York Lodge Xo. 1024, and in politics he is a republican who for eight or ten years served as a member of the city council. He is republican committee-man from the second ward and does everything in his power to promote the success of his party and secure the adoption of its principles. He belongs to the Country Club and is popular in its membership. Throughput the- period of .his residence in Nebraska he has been an earnest champion of the city, anjrl county in which he resides and at all times his aid and cooperation can be counted upon' to promote measures for the general good.

Heney C. Geaves

Among the alert and enterprising business men of York is Henry C. Graves, who is one of the largest real estate men in the county. The greater part of his life has been spent in this connection and his success indicates the keenness of his sagacity and the soundness of his business opinions.

Henry C. Graves was born two and one-half miles east of Arborville, on the 6th of April, 1890, a son of Dan and Martha H. (Loonier) Graves, the former born in Vermont in 18-11, while the latter was born in Illinois in 1816. The mother is still living and resides in York but Mr. Graves died July 27, 1917. In early manhood Dan Graves removed to Illinois and there met and married his wife. In the early sixties they came to York county where they acquired a homestead on which they built a sod house and resided there for fifteen years. The country was in a somewhat wild and uncultivated state and the wild geese were so numerous that they woiild eat the oats as they were put into the ground. Indians were also numerous but for the most part of friendly disposition, and would often stopi at the Graves house on their hunting expeditions for food and warmth. Dan Graves was always a stanch supporter of the democratic party and held a number of local offices in Arborville. During the years of his residence on the farm he was head of District School No. 66, and was a strong advocate of education. When he later went to

York to live lie diil his purt in the hiiilding of the courthouse with the understanding that no saloons were to he allowed in York witliiii a period of twenty years. He was also a prominent'man in financial circles being a stockholder in the York Bank and a director in the bank at Polk. Jt was about 1905 that he retired from active business life and his death occurred in Bailey's Sanitarium at Lincoln. He had always been a large landowner and at the time of his death was in possession of two sections of land in York county, a large number of acres in California, and some city property in Lincoln. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Graves, five of ' whom are still living: Myra, the wife of Edward Koon, a real estate man in York; Xora, who married H. J. Clarke, a dealer in tombstones in Omaha: Daniel, residing on the farm homesteaded by his father ; Mable, who is the wife of Moses Keahlier, a farmer near York ; and Henry C, whose name heads this review. The family were reared in the Congregational faith, and the father, Dan Graves, was a leader in the activities of that organization. Mrs. Graves is .still residing in York at the advanced age of seventy-four years.

In the acquirement of his education Henry C. Graves attended District School, Xo. 66, and in due time entered the Kearney Military Academy, from which institution he was graduated in 1906. He then entered the state agricultural school at Lincoln where he remained for one year, at the termination of which time he engaged in farming for a period of seven years. On the 11 th of August, 1913, he removed to York and built a garage. He ran this business for five years, selling Cadillac, Chandler and Xash cars. On the l")th of September, 1918, he sold this business but continued to manage it for one year after the sale. He had been very successful in this business but it was not the line of work in which he wished to continue. His next venture was in the real estate business and while it is mostly ' general he does some emigration business in Colorado and western Xebraska. He is perhaps one of the biggest landowners in the county having thirty-one hundred acres in Colorado, two hundred acres in York, and his home at 216 East Xinth street. He also owns one-fourth of a section in Perkins county.

In 1908 Mr. Graves was united in marriage to Miss X'ettie E. Tewell, a native of Arborville and a daughter of Jordan Tewell. AVlien Mr. Tewell first settled in York he worked for a Mr. Grover a while and then decided to go into business on his owu account. He ran stores at Arborville and Polk and is now living retired and well-to-do in Julesburg, Colorado.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Graves the right of franchise he has been a stanch supporter of the democratic party and is well versed on all the issues and questions of the day. His fraternal atiiliation is with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and he is a member of the Baptist church. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Graves is one of the finest in York and is noted for its hospitality.

Eichard Pryce

Richard Pryce, deceased, an honored pioneei- of the west in the 60"s, was during the latter part of his life a prominent factor in the advancement of the business interests and development of this section of the country. Mr. Pryce was born in Montgomeryshire, Xorth Wales, February 5, 1837, and died at his home near

Thayor, Xebraska, February -1, 1920, being eighty-three years old lacking one day. He came to America with his parents in 1845 and the family settled on a piece of government land in Wisconsin, where the parents made their home for the rest of their lives.

Richard Pryce crossed tiie plains in the early days, starting from Nebraska City and driving five yoke of oxen through to Denver, Colorado. There were sixty wagons in the train and nearly five hundred head of oxen and cattle, and the journey was a slow and perilous one, in which they covered aliout twenty miles a day. He afterwards made the trip Ijy rail and lived to see the automobile and aeroplane in successful operation. He remarked a short time before his death that he had lived to see all the modern methods of travel and transportation, none of which was in use when his father was a boy. In 1882 Mr. I'ryce bought a tract of railroad land in Thayer tovvnshij) which by unremitting toil he developed .into a well arranged and productive farm, building thereon a commodious home which he occupied until the time of his death. He became the owner of five hundred acres of fine land which he acquired at the moderate figure of seven and one-half dollars per acre. He made many valuable improvements on his holdings and his general farming and stock raising were conducted with success, while his diligence and determination brought him prominently to the front in connection with the line of his chosen occupation. He was regarded by all who knew him as a man of strict integrity Mid sterling honesty. He was of kindly spirit and generous disposition toward all with whom he came in contact and was liked by all. It fell to his lot to experience many phases of pioneer and frontier life and he made liberal contributions of strength and wisdom to the development of the great west. He stood in the front rank of those who planted civilization in this part of Nebraska and was particularly active in the growth of York county. Although an ardent supporter of the republican party he never aspired to public office, preferring to devote his time to his agricultural interests, hut at the same time he never neglected to use his influence to advance any movement intended to promote the social and material welfare of the county.

In 1867 Mr. Pryce was united in marriage to Miss Martha George, also a native of Wales, and to their union five children were born, one of whom died in infancy, "^riie surviving members of the family are: Russel, who lives on the home farm; Mrs. Malissa Ilattel, who lives near Thayer; Albert J., also living near Thayer; and Mrs. Carrie Harris, of Stromsburg, Nebraska ; also a foster-daughter, Miss Grace Pryce, who had been a member of the family since childhood. One sister survived Mr. Pryce - Mrs. Bartlett of Attica, Wisconsin, who passed away in March, 1920. At the time of Mr. Pryce's death he had seventeen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Pryce passed away February 6, 1912, to the deep sorrow of her family to whom her domestic virtues and nolile character had ever been sources of abiding love and veneration.

Russel Pryce, the eldest of the children, now owns the old homestead of two hundred and forty acres. He had always lived on the home farm during his father's lifetime, and was a great help from young manhood in carrying on the affairs of the holding. In his father's declining years he practically relieved him of all business cares and is now proving himself a worthy successor, having long since established a reputation as an experienced agriculturist. Albert L. Pryce, the second son, remained on tlie home farm until 1908, when he moved to the other part of his father's estate consisting of two hundred and eighty acres located in Stewart township and there makes his home. He married Margaret Hoffer and they became the parents of ten children, of whom nine are living, one having died in infancy. Following tlie lead of their father, Riissel and Albert Pryce give undivided support to the republican party.

For twenty years Dr. James X. Plumb has been practicing in Yorlc and in that time has built np a large and steadily increasing practice. He is a native son of Nebraska, horn in Eulo in 1868. His parents, Lewis and Mary (SchafE) Plumb, were natives of Ohio and were married in that state. The father was a carpenter by trade and for some time ran a lumber-yard and contiuned his carpentering, becoming very successful in both lines. During the t'ivil war Mr. Plumb served in the provost marshal's office at Camp Chase and his wife was in charge of the prison camp dining-room. It was during the war that Jacoli Schaff, the father of Mary Schaff, went to Nebraska. He was born in Somerset county. Turkeyfoot township, Pennsvlvania, but at an early day removed to Ohio. When he left for Nebraska Mr. Plumb gave him some money with which to purchase some land for him with the result that at the close of the war Mr. and Mrs. Plumb removed to this state. That was in the year 1866 and they settled in Eichard.son county taking up the cultivation of their land. Two children were born to this union : Perry E., who was a physician at Gothenburg, Nebraska, and died at tlie age of forty-five years; and James N., the subject of this review. The mother died in 1891 and Mr. Plumb was again married, this time to Mary Simpson. He was a member of the republican ])arty and of the Methodist Episcopal church. James Plumb, the grandfather of the subject of this review, followed the carpenter's trade in Ohio and died as the result of a fall from the top of a house he was razing. Grandfather Scbatf was a prominent mendjer of the Masonic fraternity, and was well known throughout Eichardson county wbicli lie represented one term in the state legislature.

Dr. James N. Phuub acquired his educatinu in the schools of Eulo and in due time entered York College. For two years he attended the University of Neliraska and then entered the medical department of the L^niversity of Iowa at Iowa City where he remained for one year. At the termination of this period he enrolled in the Eush Medical College and was graduated therefrom with the degree of M. D., in 1891. Establishing himself in Fairmont, Nebraska, he began his practice and remained there for ten years. His success was insured from the lieginning and he built up a very large practice. He gave up his practice there in 1901. however, and removed to York, determining to retire from general practice and to specialize in eve, ear, nose and throat. In this special line of work he is recognized as one of the finest specialists in the county. About every two years he takes post-graduate work at the Polyclinic at Chicago, his last course having been in 1918. Although the greater part of his time is devoted to his profession he is interested in the financial circles of York, being a stockholder in the City National Pank and a director in the City National Trust Company.

Histoky Of York Couxty 1069

lu 1899 at FiUi-iniiiit. <iii.-iirrcil the marriage of Dr. I'hinili ami iliss Ella Graves. She was horn near Winnebago, Illinois, and was the tlaughter of Xoble and Betsy B. (Beeeher) Graves. Her parents came to Y'ork county in 1871 and acquired a homestead southwest of Bradshaw. In their later life they removed to York wliere Mr. Graves' death orcurred in 1879 and she passed away in 1893. Mr. Graves served in the Civil war, and the G. A. E. post at Bradshaw is named in honor of him. Dr. and Mrs. Plumb have become parents of three daughters: Helen who is the wife of W. R. Ward, a farmer near Overton; Florence, who is engaged in teaching; and Elanor, who is in school. The two ehler daughters were graduates of the Wesleyan University at Lincoln and Helen also graduated from the Omaha Methodist Hospital as nurse.

Dr. Plumb gives his allegiance to the repulilican party in the interests of which he takes an active part, although he has never sought nor desired public office. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Highlanders, the Odd Fellows, and the Ancient Order of United Workmen and holds chairs in all three orders. Dr. and Mrs. Plumb are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church and active in that organization. He has built up a large practice and ranks high among the men of his profession.

Thomas Elwood Doan

Thomas Elwood Doan is one of the few men now living in York county who came to this part of Nebraska in the spring of 1868. In the fifty-two intervening years he has been a witness to the wonderful transformation which the prairie soil underwent - converting the district from a state of nonproduction to one of well tilled fields and abundant crops and side by side with this evolution was the increase year by year of the pojnilation. Mr. Doan passed through the scourge of the grasshopper invasion, the blizzards and the droughts and he is one of the men who has lived through all the hardships of .a new country settlement, faithfully performing his part of the tasks necessary to bringing about a settleil and contented civilization.

Thomas Elwood Doan was born in Henry county, Iowa, June 1!), 1853, and educated in the schools of York county. In 1858 his father moved to Jjinn county, Kansas, and settled on a tract of government land on which he continued to reside until 1861, when he returned to Iowa owing to war conditions then existing in Kansas. He remained in Henry county, Iowa, for a further period of si.x years and in 1867 went to Council Bluffs, going thence in the spring of 1868 to York county where he settled in Stewart township and took up a tract of eighty acres of government land located on section 26. Here he erected a log caliin in which he lived for several years. On taking possession of the holding he immediately began to get the place into productive condition and after the lapse of a few years had effected many substantial improvements. He died at the age of seventy-three years while living in Nuckolls county, whither he had gone to reside some years before.

Thomas E. Doan was fifteen years old when he accompanied his father to York county, other members of the family driving two yoke of oxen while he walked nearly all the way driving two milch cows. His school clays were spent in a log schoolhouse which stood on land owned by his uncle, Newton Hyatt, and in those days everything in connection with educational facilities and equipment was of the most primitive character. Mr. Doan assisted his father in the agricultural operations of the home farm, continuing in this line until he was twenty-one years old when he went to Iowa and worked for an uncle at shucking corn. At the end of a year he returned to York county and worked out on farms by the month, after which he bought a team and began to farm on his own account by renting land, during this period saving all his available money to enable him to purchase a holding of his own. In the early days he had to haul grain and other produce to Ijincolu and Nebraska City for marketing, returning from each trip with necessary supplies for home and farm. In 1890 Mr. Doan found himself in a position to buy a farm of his own and secured a tract on section 32, Stewart township, on which he now resides. As he prospered in his farming work he was enabled to add to his holding and is now the owner of two hundred acres of prime land, a large f)art of which is given over to the cultivation of grain. He also raises a tine grade of hogs for which he finds a ready market at good prices. The property yields him a gratifying annual income and he has long been numbered among the representative agriculturists and substantial citizens of the county.

In 1880 Mr. Doan was united in marriage to Miss Ella Hendrickson and they have be(;ome the parents of the following children : Alice, the wife of Roy Rogers ; Ellen, who married Tanney Blount: Elmer; Maude, living at home; Clark; Louie; and Arthur and Mabel, deceased.

Mr. Doan is a stanch republican, having supported the men and measures of that l^arty since he was entitled to exercise the franchise. His has given active support to the cause of education along practical lines and has served as school treasurer of his district for several years. He has witnessed the development of this section of the state from pioneer times to the present and has borne his share in the work of progress and improvement, while in the conduct of his private business interests he has always manifested the sterling traits of character which have won him the high regard and esteem of his fellow citizens.

Thomas Cueran

Thomas Curran, owner and editor of the Daily Xews of York, has devoted practically his entire life to newspaper work. He is a native of Ireland, born in county Donegal, on the 16th of November, 1872, a son of Thomas and Mary (Heekin) Curran, both of Iri.sh birth and ancestry. The father engaged in farming throughout his life and they were both consistent members of the Catholic church. Eight children were born to this union, si.\ of whom are still living, Thomas Curran, the subject of this review, being the youngest. Both parents died when he was just a lad and at an early age he began to shoulder responsibility.

The education of Thomas Curran was obtained in the schools of his native country, and upon hearing of the wonderful opportunities offered here he determined to leave his native land, with the result that in 1888 he came to Nebraska and has resided in this state ever since. He established himself in Lincoln and his first employment was as an apprentice on the Lincoln Xews. He worked for this paper for nine years, at the termination of which time he removed to Fremont obtaining employment on the Tribune. During the five years of his work on this paper he learned book niannfactnring with the result that in 1!)02 he came to York and started the York Blank Rouk Company, running it as a printing establishment. Some time later he established the Daily Xews and in 1916 purchased the Times, consolidating the two papers under the name of the News-Times, which is the only daily paper in York. In connection with his newspaper he has a complete manufacturing plant, one of the best between Omaha and Denver.

In 1897 Mr. Curran was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Menlove, a native of Lincoln, and to them seven children have been born, six of whom are living: Edward and Thomas A. are engaged in business with their father ; and Frank, Bessie, James, and Xellie are all attending school. Stelhi was drowned in the city park in 1912.

Mr. Curran gives his allegiance to the i-epublican party and fraternally is a Knight of Columbus and an Elk. Mr. and Mrs. Curran and family are also members of the Catholic church. It has always been the habit of Mr. Curran to give strict attention to his newspaper interests and it is this spirit of thoroughness and fidelity which has constituted one of the basic elements of his progress and success since he started out in life on his own account when but a boj'.

Erwin Eugene Lincoln is a relative of the immortal Abraham Lincoln, and is numbered among the prominent and successful merchants of McCool where he conducts the leading hardware and furniture store in the town. He was born in Canton, New York, Ai>ril 27, 1857, the son of Myron and Sylvia A. (Page) Lincoln, natives of New Hampshire and Vermont, respectively. His father moved to New York at an early age and later went to Grundy county, Illinois, in 1857, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits for many years. He passed away in Streator, Illinois, in 1871, and his wife's demise occurred about five years ago. Erwin Lincoln grew to manliood in Illinois and was educated in the public schools there.

At the age of sixteen he moved to Streator, Illinois, with his parents and began an independent career as a teamster. Later he entered a partnership with his brother-in-law, buying a farm and engaging in its cultivation until 1877 when he made a trip to Nebraska, and spent the two following years farming some leased school land in York county. In 1888 he located at McCool where he worked in an elevator for a few months and later conducted a butcher shop before he entered upon the successful business career that has been his. He purchased one-half interest in a hardware store and went into business under the firm name of Lincoln & Grier, where he prospered to such an extent as to be able to buy out his partner's share of the business uithin a year. For twenty years he was the leading hardware, furniture and implement dealer in the town, and at the end of that time retired from business for a few 3'ears. Four years ago he again purchased the business and since that time has enjoyed a large trade and a flourishing business.

SepteiuliiT IS, 1S81, Erwiii E. Lincoln was married to Miss Kate Teter, a native of (iriimly county, Illinois, the daughter of John and Susan (McAllister) Teter, natives of Ohio. To this union have been born four children: Cora, the wife of William Owen, of Seattle, Washington; Lewis, who is married and resides in Xamjia, Tdaiio: Emmet, of Lusliton, Xebraska, who is married; and Forrest who lives at home, assisting his father in the store.

As one of the leading men and jirogressive merchants of his community Mi-. Lincoln has always been interested in progress and development and is ready to give his support to worthy movements. He has served on the village board many times and was a member of the county board of supervisors several terms. In politics he is a democrat. When the Farmer.s and Merchants Bank was organized in lOOi Mr. Lincoln was made president of that institution, holding this office for seven years. He has well earned the reputation of a successful and high principled business man and public spirited citizen, always giving his service or means in order to promote tlie development of his community.

Frank G. Burxham

Frank G. Burnham, president of the Y'ork Brick and Tile Company of York, is one of the county's most progressive and representative citizens. He is a native son of Xebraska, his birth having occurred in Lincoln on the Slst of December, 1877, a .son of Horace A. and Lizzie A. Burnham. Both parents were born in Portland, Maine, and in 1874 removed westward settling in Lincoln. The father engaged in farming and stock raising, to which occupations he devoted the greater part of his life. In 1882 Mr. and Mrs. Burnham removed to Custer county, going as far as Kearney by train and driving the remainder of the way and here the father acquired a homestead on which he lived until 1895. The mother's death occurred in 1889. In 1895 Mr. Burnham removed to Cherry county where his death occurred. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Burnham, namely : Harry, who is farming in Custer county; Frank G., the subject of this review; Horace E., who is engaged in the insurance business at Seattle, Washington : Sumner, a ranchman in Scotts Bluff county; and Silas, a farmer in Custer county. The Burnham family were reared in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal ilumh and the father was a republican in politics. In every sense of the word Horace A. Burnham was a self-made man.

In the acquirement of an education Frank G. Burnham attended the common schools of Lincoln and in due time was graduated from the high school at that place. On completing his education lie started upon his busine.«s career in connection with the American Exchange Bank at Lincoln, and for some time he remained in this position. In 1896 he went into business on his own account and commenced the manufacture of brick in Lincoln. He carried on this line of work successfully for a period of eleven years, and in 1907 came to Y^ork, continuing in this same business and he now has a large plant worth one hundred thousand dollars. He is president and general manager of the company and under his guidance the business has flourished. The bricks are of the best quality on the market and are shipped to all points in X^ebraska, Kansas, the Dakotas, and Iowa. When he first entered into the business he shipped an avei'age of twenty-five cars of brick per annum

In 1899 Mr. Buruham was united in marriage to Miss Maude Wilson, a native of Lincoln, and to them four sons have been born : Sumner aged eighteen years ; Ralph, sixteen years of age; Frank, who is thirteen years old; and Herbert, eight years of age. The Burnham family are members of the Christian church and Mrs. Burnham takes an active interest in the charities of that organization.

Mr. Burnham gives his allegiance to the republican party in the interest of which he takes an active part. He served as county councilman of York for a period extending over three years. Fraternally he is a member of the Modern Woodmen, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and the Highlanders. In each of these orders he is an exemplary member. His business interests demand the greater part of his time and he is always endeavoring to improve the conditions under which his employes, numbering forty men, work. There is the best of feeling between Mr. Burnham and his men for he pays them fair wages, his pay roll amounting to forty thousand dollars per annum. Mr. Burnham has always been quick to recognize the possibilities of a situation, prompt in formulating his plans and energetic in their execution, and it is to these qualities that his success is due.

William G. Troutman

Since 1907 William G. Troutman, a successful farmer in York county for many years, has lived retired in York. He was born in Pennsylvania on the 31st of March, 1850, a son of Michael- and Rachael (Winters) Troutman. His father was bom In Pennsylvania December 25, r823, and died in 1913, while the mother was born in Maryland in 1828 and died in 1881. They were both educated and grew to maturity in Pennsylvania and their marriage occurred in Somerset county, that state. The father followed the carpenter's trade there for a number of years but in 1856 went to Illinois where he purchased some land and engaged in farming for twenty-two years after which time he came to Nebraska. He settled in York county and retired. His death occurred here at tlie age of eighty-six years. Mrs. Troutman's death occurred in Benedict and she is buried there. Eight children were born to this marriage, six of whom are living: Elizabeth, the widow of Joseph Boyer who resides in California; William G., the subject of this review; Christina, the wife of Pierce Harden, who is a retired farmer living at Benedict ; Oscar, who is engaged in farming in Colorado; Ella, the wife of H. P. Walker who is retired and is residing in Benedict; and Albert, a real estate dealer in Omaha. The Troutman familv were reared in the faith of the Lutheran church and the father was a stanch supporter of the democratic party. The first of the Troutman family in the United States were William and Peter Troutman who removed from Berks county, Pennsylvania, to Somerset county, that state, at an early day. The grandfather of William G. Troutman, the subject of this review, was William Troutman a native of Pennsylvania, and he married Catherine Uhl who was born in Gennany and crossed to the United States when Init seven years of age.

William G. Ti-outman received his education in Illinois and after putting his textbooks aside began life as a farmer. While residing in Illinois he rented a farm but in 1S75 pureliased some land in York county and four years later removed to that county. The land he had purchased was unimproved railroad land in Lockridge township, and for many j'ears he made his home there, residing in a little frame house, sixteen by twenty-four feet. In that early day there were no schoolhouses and churches and for the first few years of his residence in that township school and church services were held in the different homes. He engaged in general farming and also fed live stock. In 1907 he decided to retire from active farm life and so removed to York, building a fine home at 1026 Grant avenue, although lie spends considerable time on his farm. He is owner of a farm in Lockridg& township and a half section of fine land. He rents his farm to his son on a fiftyfifty basis. Besides the interest he still retains in his land he holds stock in the telephone company and elevator at Benedict.

In 1875, while residing in Illinois, Mr. Troutman was united in marriage to Miss Malinda Harden, a native of Maryland and a daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Cook) Harden. Her parents were l)otli born. in Pennsylvania but Inter removed to Maryland where they resided fur a number of years. In 1851 they removed to Illinois and settled in Lee county and liere the father died. Mrs. Harden nuide her liome with Mrs. Troutman for a few years until her deatli. Se^en children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Harden, five of whom are living: Dennis C, a farmer in Lee county, Illinois ; Mrs. Troutman, the wife of the subject of this review ; Demetrius G., lives in California ; Emanuel J., who is head man of the International Harvester Company at Winnipeg, Canada: Je.«se, a farmer at Falon. To the union of ilr. and Mrs. Troutman six children have been born : Josie, the wife of S. S. Reed, who is farming in York county; Flossie C, who is the wife of C. E. Huft', a farmer raising principally wheat in Kimball county: Agnes E., the wife of T. L. tJrcen who is in the lumber and coal business at Sterling, Colorado; Lester L., a farmer in York county: Bertha, who is living at home; and Forrest H., who is residing on his fathers farm.

Mr. Troutman has always given his allegiance to the republican party and is well versed on the questions and issues of the day. Fraternally he is a member of the Ancient Order of L'nited Workmen in which order he has won the degree of honor. Mr. Troutman has made his way in the world by liis own diligence and labor and lie is a well known and representative citizen of York.

John Towle

John Towle is numbered among the pioneer settlers of York county whose life bore the impress of many events which shaped the history of the county, marking the development and the progress of the region. He was born in Leeds, England, April 7, 1838, was brought to the United States when an infant, and liis childhood was spent in Wisconsin where his people settleil after arriving in this country.

He received his education in the schools of Wisconsin and his initial step in the business world was made with a wook'U manufacturing company owned by his father and an uncle. Jn 1871 be came to York county Nebraska, and took u]) a homestead where he experienced all tlie hardshi])s and privations known to the pioneer settler. On one occasion he and liis brother nearly lost their lives when they became lost in a storm. Mr. Towle's first home was a frame house for which he hauled the lumber from Lincoln. The betterment of homes and living conditions marked the progress of the homesteader and when Mr. Towle had completed his frame house he sent for his wife, who came the following year - 1872. During the next year they eiidurcil many trials including the grasshopper plague and drougJit periods and moved back to Wisconsin in 187.3 where they remained the following ten years, Mr. Towle being employed in the woolen factory.

Mr. Towle was married on December 25, 186fi, to Sarah Barlow, who was born in England, September 1, 1847, the ilaughter of John and Eliza Barlow, natives of England who came to Wisconsin in 1S18. IMr. Barlow pa.ssed away there at tlie age of eighty-four years, ili-. and Mrs. ISarhiw became the parents of eight children, five of whom arc living. All are residents of Wisconsin with the exception of Mrs. Towle. To Mv. and .Airs. Towle were born nine chihlren, seven of whom are living: A. J., who is engaged in the real estate business at Snyder, Texas; William Charles, who lives on a farm near Charleston; Sarah Elena, wife of X. P. Watt who li\es on a faiin in York county: Samuel D., who passed awav; George G.. who died in infancy: Effie G., wife of C. B. Caniphell, who is employed in an oil station in York, Nebraska ; Howard Garfield, who is engaged in the jewelry business at Snyder. Texas; Gordon P., who is a telegraph operator at Trenton, Nebraska: and Ilalpli K., who is an eye, ear, no.se and throat sjjecialist practicing in Boise, Idaho.

'-When the war broke (nit John Towle was among the first to respond to the country's call for aid, enlisting May 17, 1861, for three months service as a member of Company D, Third Wisconsin Infantry. He was mustered in at Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, on June 29th for three years service. The regiment went immediately to the south, arriving at Harpers Ferry, July 18, 1861, and Mr. Towle served in the campaigns in Virginia and Maryland for two years, two months and sixteen days, in the army of the Shenandoah under General Banks, the army of Virginia under General Pope, the army of the Potomac under Generals McClellan, Burnsides, Hooker and Meade, and was in New York city on military duty during the draft riots of August, 1863, under General Colby. He left Bealton Station. Virginia, with his regiment October 3, 1863, to join the army of the Cumberland at Chattanooga, Tennessee, and was mustered out at the latter place July 5, 1864, on account of disability. He participated in the following engagements: Bolivar Heights, Winchester, Cedar Mountain, Pope's campaign, Antietam, Cbancellorsville, Beverly Ford, Gettysburg and the draft riots. He was mustered out with the rank of cor])oral. During the battle of Antietam he was shot through the leg and had both ear drums punctured which destroyed his hearing. He was also wounded at Beverly Ford when an exploding shell struck him in the leg. On account of his wounds and the loss of his hearing he has experienced ill health for years and is one of the honorable pensioners of the government."

This is a record of which any soldier might well be proud and it is kept in reverent memory of Mr. Towle who passed away March 17. 1916. Mr. Towle was a member of the Methodist church and fraternally had membership with the

Indepcndc'iit Order of Odd Fellows. He resided at York <it the time of his death, at 900 Burlington Avenue, where his widow now lives. He was a man well informed on the toj)ies of the day, a good reader anil a very intelligent man whose life devoted to the welfare and service of his fellowmen has made his memory honored wherever he was known.

Solomox A. Myers

Solomon A. Myers, who since 1901 has engaged in the real estate business in York, was born near Terre Haute, Indiana, December 16, 1849, a son of James and Sophia (West) Myers, who are natives of Indiana and Ohio respectively, their marriage being celebrated in the former state. The father was a farmer throughout his entire life. In the early '50s he removed to Illinois, wdiere he purcha.sed land near Bushncll, and upon that farm his wife passed away. Subsequently Mr. Myers moved to Oregon where he spent his last days. However, he was in many places prior to that time, residing for a period in Oklahoma, afterward in Nebraska, later in Colorado, and eventually in Oregon. He was a member of the Christian church and gave his political support to the republican party. To him and his wife were born the following children, of whom six are living: B. F., a retired farmer residing in Yoj-k, Nebraska ; Anna, who is the widow of John Keppel and resides in Bardolph, llliiKiis: Cassandra, who is the widow of Dudley Pelley of Macomb, Illinois: Solomon A., of this review; Emma A., the wife of William Jackson, a retired farmer of Bardolph, Illinois: and William P., an attorney of Culver, Oregon. Alice grew to wnnianhond, then passed away. She was not married.

Solomon A. Myers obtained his early education in the country schools of Illinois. He started out in life as a fanner, renting land in Illinois, and also took up veterinary work in early manhood. In IS?.") \w came to Nebraska, purchased a homestead right and took up his abode in a sod house in York county. The following year he brought his wife and two children to his new home and in time built a frame house on his land and continued the woi-k n( I'urthei- developing and improving the ])roperty which he transformed into an excellent farm, residing thereon until 1001, when he sold the place. In that year he took up his abode in York and tui-iied his attention to the real estate business in wliirli he has since engaged. He conducts a general real estate, emigration and insurance business and in this way has done much to promote the settlement and development of York county.

In 1870 Mr. Myers was married to Miss Eliza R. Kost, and to them were born four children: William A., a physician of Casper, Wyoming: John W., living at York; Frank, who died in IS'.ci at the age of sixteen years: and James C, who is in California. The wife and mother passed away August :>, 1888, and on the 85th of December, 1890, Mr. Myers was united in marriage to Jessie R. Rose, who was born in Sheridan, Iowa, and they have two children: Charles B., a farmer of Lexington, Nebraska : and H. G., a mechanic living at York.

Mr. Myers and his wife are mendiers of the Methodist E])iscopal church. He has attained the Royal .\rch degree in ^lasonry and is also a member of the Knights of Pvthias. His jHilitical endorsement is given to the re]uil)liean party. He filled the office of county commissioner, has served on the city council and as a member of the school board, and at all times has discharged his public duties with marked capability and fidelity. He is always loyal to any interests tending to advance the welfare and progress of the community, and his cooperation is valued as an element in general improvements. As a business man he has been systematic and thoroughly reliable. At different periods he has owned land in Nebraska, Colorado and Illinois, but has now disposed of most of it.

William Brahmsteadt

William Brahmsteadt has been actively and prominently identified with farming and agricultural interests and stock raising for many years in York county and is now handling a vast tract of eight hundred acres of prime land to the operation of which he devotes all his activities. He was born in Cook county, Illinois, in 1870, a son of Henry Brahmsteadt and wife, both natives of Germany, from which country they immigrated to America in company with Henry's father, William Brahmsteadt, who located in Chicago, where he followed his trade of blacksmith for several years and also worked with Henry for the American E.xpress Company.

It was in 1870 that the elder William Brahmsteadt (grandfather of the subject of this sketch), came to York county and here bought a tract of land which he immediately proceeded to cultivate and on which he did general farming and stock raising. He continued in these lines during the active years of his life, his death occurring in 1901: at an advanced age, and his widow passing away two years later, in 1906. Henry Brahmsteadt, father of our subject, also was engaged in agricultural operations and worked the old home place after the death of his father. He died in 1909 at the age of sixty-two years; his wife predeceased him by several years. These worthy people were the parents of six children: Ann, wife of John Churchill, of York; William, of this sketcli ; Louis D., a farmer; Henry, who works for William; Ralph, a farmer of Monmouth, Illinois, and Edward, a machinist, living in Chicago. His first wife died and Henry Brahmsteadt married Minnie Swatfager, and they became the parents of one child, I]lla, wife of Carl Barr, a York county farmer. He was a member of the Lutheran church, in the affairs of whicli he took a practical part; he supported tlie republican party and warmly espoused their principles. He counted it his greatest happiness to provide for the welfare and comfort of his family, and in every relation of life he manifested those sterling qualities which command respect, confidence and honor.

William Brahmsteadt spent his boyhood and youthful days in his fatlier's home and acquired his education in the public schools of Illinois. When little more than an infant he accompanied his parents to Nebraska, where his grandfather settled and acquired land. In time Mr. Brahmsteadt became proficient in agricultural operations and added to his land holdings, set out additional improvements to those already placed on the farm by his grandfather, and he is now the owner of eight hundred acres of the very best land in this part of the state. He is extensively engaged in general farming and stock raising, ranking among the foremost agriculturists of the county, and his energy and time are devoted to maintaining the hisrh standard he has reached in the farming world.

In 1901 Mr. Braliiiisteailt was united in marriage to Mattie Wck-li, a native of Illinois, and this union has heen hlesseil with five ehililren: Oliva, Charles, Nora, Benjamin and Ivan, all living at home with their parents. He acts independently in political affairs, i)referring to su])port well considered measures and men rather than professional politicians and doubtful legislation of the "pork liariel"' variety. As a business man ]iis position is one of prominence and his capability is widely recognized. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, for from an early age he has been iiractically dependent on his own resources. As the years have gone by his labors have brought substantial results and he is today accounted one of the foremost agriculturists in York county.

Dr. Albert E. Calkins of York raidvs among the most progressive and succ-essful dental surgeons of the city and is held in high esteem by both the general public and his professional brethren. Ho was born in Polk county in 1S77, the son of Kirkland J. and Louella (Williams) Calkins, both natives of New York state. The father and mother were married in Iowa to which state they had come with their parents at an early date and he was employed as a teamster there for many years. In the early sixties they decided to remove to Nebraska and finally settled in Polk county where they had ac(|ui)-ed a homestead. In 18ii5 they removed to York and retired, liis death occurring in 1!)30. Mi's. Calkins is still residing in York. Albert E. Calkins the subject of this review, was the fourth in order of l)irth of their live children, the other children being: Fred. 11. 1).. who resides in Fremont; Royal W., a physician of Cortez, Colorado; Lucy, who is the wife of J. M. Rovenscroft a farm owner, and a mason by trade living in York; Charles A., a dentist in York. The family were reared in the Presbyterian faith, and the father was a stanch supporter of the democratic party. When the Civil war broke out Kirkland .J. Calkins was one of the first to volunteer his services and joined the Twenty-fourth Liwa regiment Company 1. A sketch <>\' him appears elsewhere in this work. The Calkins family is a very old family dating back before the Revolutionary war and it is said that Hugh Calkins, an early ancestor, was at one time governor of the English colonies.

The early education of Dr. Calkins was received in the schools of Polk and York counties and in order to obtain the further education which he deemed necessary to fit him foi- his cho.sen career, it was necessary to earn the money, which he did by working at various occupations. In 1!)(tl he entered the college of dentistry at .the Omaha University and was graduated from this institution with his degree in liMl4. Hjs first ]irofessional venture was in North Bend where he remained for a little more than a year and then in liio.'i removed to York. He here entered into the profession with his brother, Charles .\., and remained in this connection for a period of ten years. He has taken two post-graduate courses in this line of "work and is always interested in the strides being made in his profession. Aside from his ]irofessional duties Dr. Calkins devotes some time to his farm which is located in Kimball county and is one of the finest in the community.

ford who was born in Lancaster Lounty. her parents being among the early settlers of this state. The father is now engaged in the harness business in Panama. Mrs. Calkins is one of the prominent young matrons in York and as a member of the Christian church is a leader in its activities.

In polities Dr. Calkins is an indejiendent. supiiorting the man I'ather than the party. Dr. Calkins has always been a close and discriminating student of the principles of dentistry and has made continuous advance in his profession by reason of his devotion thereto as displayed in wide reading and study. He })uts forth every effort possible to make his services of greater professional worth and his ability is widely recognized throughout the community in which he resides.

Peter J. Ratzlaff

The best traditions of the commercial life of York county are well sustained in the business activities of Peter J. Ratzlaif. a well known resident of Henderson. He is a native son of the county, born July 10, 1890, a son of John and Maria (Dueck) Ratzlaff, both natives of the southern part of Russia who immigrated to America in 1876. After landing in this country the parents came to J^ebraska and located in York county, where the father acquired a farm which he continued to operate with a marked measure of success for many years. He passed away in 1915 and his widow is still living. They were the parents of five children, three of whom are living.