York County, Nebraska - Biographical sketches, 1921 (part 9 of 13)

In the acquirement of an education Charles Wagoner attended the district schools of Illinois and after putting his textbooks aside commenced to farm. In 1888 he removed to Nebraska and settled in Adams county where he lived on a rented farm for one year. While residing in this county he purchased one hundred and fifty acres of land in York county and the following year removed to this farm. He purchased the farm on credit but it was not long before he had paid off all of his debts and was steadily increasing his acreage. This farm is near Arborville and he now owns one hundred and ninety acres of land there. He eno-aged in general farming and in addition fed live stock. In 1916 he decided to retire from active life and so removed to York where he purchased a home at 1003 Nebraska avenue. He is now residing there enjoying the fruits of a life of diligence and labor.

Elizabeth Harris, on the 30th of December, 1887. Her 23areiits were William and Elizabeth Harris and the father engaged in farming in Illinois. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harris are deceased. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Wagoner, one child. Earl William, has been born. He married Miss Bessie Crane and they are residing on his father's farm. One child, Bernice, has been born to Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Wagoner.

Mr. Wagoner votes for the republican party and is a stanch advocate of the principles for which it stands. In local affairs he has always taken an active interest, although he has neither sought nor desired public office. Fraternally he is a member of the Highlanders. Mr. Wagoner is highly esteemed throughout the county and he well deserves the proud American title of self-made man, for the success which he enjoys is attributable entirely to his own efforts and perseverance.

William C. Hawley

Among the highly esteemed citizens of York county is William C. Hawley who is now living retired in Gresham after many years of activity in agricultural and business pursuits. He is a native of West Virginia, born October 18, 18.37 a son of Barton and Jemina (Piles) Hawley, also natives of West Virginia, where they spent all their lives and passed away many years ago.

William C. Hawley was educated in the schools of his native state and lived with his parents during the years of his early manhood. When he was about thirty-one years of age he decided to see more of the country and removed to Iowa in the fall of 1868 and there engaged in farming, continuing in that line for several years, aecpiring much valuable technical knowledge of all agricultural operations as carried on in that great farming state. It was in 1881 that Mr. Hawley came to York county and settled on a holding of one hundred and sixty acres in Stewart township, on which he put iip a small frame house and shed barn, for which he hauled the lumber from Shelby. He broke the land, commenced the cultivation of crops effected improvements of a valuable nature in the form of new buildings, planted trees and set out an orchard, and as he succeeded in his operations he extended the scope of his general farming and stock raising. However, it was not all smooth sailing for in the dry seasons of 189.3-94 he was unable to raise any crops and was compelled to burn cornstalks and corn for fuel. One of the sons would haiil the cornstalks by the wagon-load and stoke the stove with the stalks while the mother cooked the meals. Eventually Mr. Hawley found himself in sound financial circumstances and bought a further tract of land on which he added improvements and finally retired from active farm life and moved to Gresham in 1909. His wife died July 13, 1912, being then in her seventy-first year and was interred at Blue Ridge cemetery. The following children were born to their marriage: Emery J., who died in 1898; Barton L., in the hardware business at Gresham: A. A., who lives with his father; P. S., a farmer living near Waco; Charles W.. a farmer living near Alliance; Hosea M., deceased: and Estella, the of William Robertson of Gresham. Mr. Hawle^' has always voted the republican ticket and his religious affiliation is with the United Brethren church. He has passed the eighty-third milestone on life's journey but is still hale and

Jiearty and boasts an endurance in keei)ing with his years. The death of his wife who had aeeonipanied him on so large a part of tlie journey was the occasion of deep regret not only to her family but to many friends, for .she had earned the warm regard and friendship of many.

A. A. Hawley, with whom the father has been living since his retirement, entered the furniture and undertaking business in Gresham when the town was organized, served eighteen years and eight months as postmaster of Gresham, and is probably one of the best known men in the surrounding district. He was married in 1885 to Mary E. Hibbard and they became the parents of three children: Coila U., who died in infancy; Bruce P., a farmer in York county; and Hazel, who died in 11)11. He married for his second wife Maynie Gilbert and to this union one child, Glenwood W., has been born. Mr. Hawley has been active in public affairs and has served as township treasurer and township assessor at various times. He is an active sup])orter of the republican party and he and the members of his family attend the services of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Rev. Otto Batz

Since October 1, 1007, Rev. Otto Batz has been in charge of the Evangelical Lutheran Emmanuel church in York and has become widely known throughout the surrounding counties not only because of his successful ministry but because he founded the P'vangelical Lutheran Hospital.

Mr. Batz is a native of Germany, born in that country on the lltli of August, 1876, the son of August and Julia Anna (Fahr) Batz also natives of Germany in which country they are now residing. For a jjcriod of forty-five years the father engaged in school-teaching there and is now retired an a pension. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Batz si.x children were born, five of whom are now living, namely : Arnold, who is residing in Germany and is a principal of schools; Richard, also residing in Germany wliere he follows the trade of a mechanic ; Rev. Otto Batz, the subject of this review; Sidonie, residing in Germany; and Augusta who is residing in Germany. The family were all reared in the faith of the Lutheran church.

Rev. Otto Batz received his education in Marienburg, Germany, and for two years taught school in his native country. Having heard of the many wonderful opportunities to be found in America he came to the United States in 1900, alone. As it was necessary for him to learn the English language he entered an academy at Springfield, Illinois, where he studied diligently for three years. He had decided to enter the ministry of the Lutheran church and in 190J: was ordained to his chosen calling. Has first charge was at Orleans where he remained for three years and then on the 1st of October, 1907, came to York to accept the pastorate of the Evangelical Lutheran Emmanuel church there. He is still in charge of the church which is steadily increasing in membership, and it is now one of the most flourishing churches in the county. In 1914 he founded the Evangelical Lutheran Hospital at York which is up to date in every particular and has an efficient corps of nurses and internes. A training school has been established in connection with the hospital and in addition to the fifteen or twenty graduate nurses there are a number of student nurses. Mr. Batz has given unselfishly of his time to the hospital and as a result of its success has become widely recognized as a man of great ability in the county and state.

r)n the l!»th of January, 1!)05, ilr. Batz was united in marriage to Miss Wilhelmina Heyer who was born in Chicago, Illinois, a daughter of Rudolph Heyer who is engaged in the merchandising business there. Four children were born to this union, namely: Gerhard, who is fifteen years of age; Gertrude, aged thirteen years: Adelaide, who is eleven years of age; and Hilda, eight years of age. The death of Mrs. Batz occurred on the 3rd of August, 1914. In 1915 Mr. Batz was again married, this time to Miss Bertha Behnke, who was born in Germany but removed to Chicago when a young girl. One child has been born to this union, Ruth, who is three years of age.

Until the election of 1920 Mr. Batz had given his allegiance to the democratic party, but in this year he gave his entire support to Harding. Mr. Batz has never had an occasion to regret his coming to the United States, and the opportunities which he heard were to be found here he quickly seized upon, and as a result of his labor and diligence has risen to his present position of beloved pastor and representative citizen.

Walter Q. Dietrick

Walter Q. Dietrick, identified with farming interests in the suburbs of York, was born in Baker township, York county, in 1881, a son of Joseph and Laura (Simpson) Dietrick. The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of Iowa in which latter state they were married. Joseph Dietrick went to Iowa when a young man and for' some time worked in the state insane asylum. In the early '70s he came to Nebraska, settling in York county in Baker to\^^lship. For a number of years he actively and successfully engaged in farming, later removing to York where he retired. He sold his property to his son, Walter Q., in 1910. Both Mr. and Mrs. Dietrick died in York. Seven children were born to that union, four of whom are living: Mrs. William Towle, the wife of a farmer near Charleston; Paul S., who is editor of a county newspaper and lyceum and Chautauqua lecturer, living in Lincoln; Walter Q., the subject of this review; and Arthur J., who is residing in Phoenix, Arizona, where he is employed by an irrigation company. Mrs. Dietrick was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church and he was a member of the populist party. Mr. Dietrick is also remembered as having built the first frame house west of York in York county, hauling lumber from Nebraska City. The mule team method of transportation was used by Mr. Dietrick in coming from Iowa to Nebraska.

In the acquirement of an education Walter Q. Dietrick attended the common schools of his county and later went to York College. In due time he entered the Wesleyan University at Lincoln and was graduated with high standing in 1910. Following his graduation he taught school for one year and edited a newspaper at Johnstown. In 1910 he purchased the farm owmed by his father and resided on that land until the spring of 1920 when he removed to his present farm of twenty acres of land near York. This land is located in Leroy township and in addition

In 1906 Mr. Dietrick was united in marriage to Miss Florence Sturgeon, a native of York county, and a daughter of James Sturgeon who was one of the early pioneers of this county. Mrs. Dietrick's mother is still living and is making her home with her. Six children have heen born to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Dietrick, five of whom are living: Lincoln, eleven years of age; Winfield, aged nine years; Virginia, who is eight years of age; Lyman, aged five years; and Everett, a baby of five months. The Dietrick family are consistent members of the United Brethren church.

Politically Mr. Dietrick maintains an independent course, voting for the man rather than the party. In 1920 he ran for the Senate on the Independent ticket, being put up by the common people, but was defeated. He is a member of the non-partisan league and Farmers Union. He served the latter organization for some time as treasurer. He is .secretary and treasurer of the Allied Union Cooperative Association. The interests of Mr. Dietrick's life are broad and well balanced, making him a forceful factor in the community welfare. He is interested in all that pertains to the educational, material and moral development of the community, and his worth as a citizen and capal)ility as a farmer are widely recognized.

For twenty-one years, Jefl'erson B. Foster, now deceased, was a prominent and progressive farmer in York county. He was born in the state of New York on the 27th of Januarj-, 18-59, and died on the 22nd of February, 1919. He was in the grain business in York for some years before his death which came as a sad blow to the community. Jefferson B. Poster was the son of Joel H. and Rebecca (Barnet) Foster who removed to Illinois in 1869 and to Nebraska in 1893. The father bought land in York county, and also owns property in York where he resides. Joel H. Foster and wife are members of the Presbyterian church and he is a stanch supporter of the democratic party. Five children were born to tliis union, of whom the subject was the eldest. They are: Jefferson B. ; Emmett J., who is residing on a ranch in York county; John H., a stockyard's commission man in Omaha; Grace, the wife of W. W. Feaster who is a real estate man in York; and Clara E., the wife of Grover C. May who owns a greenhouse in York.

Jefferson B. Foster received his education in the common schools of Illinois and after putting his textbooks aside engaged in farming in that state for a short time. In 1883 he came to York county where he purchased some land on credit, residing there for twenty-one years. During his residence on this land it was highly cultivated and as a result of his good crops he was soon able to pay in full for the ranch. In 1905 he removed to York and until the time of his death was engaged in the grain, livestock, and feed biisiness, in which line of work he was also successful. In connection with the grain business he owned a large elevator.

On the 20th of March, 1881, Mr. Foster was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca Osborn, a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of J. A. and Barbara (Barnet) Osborn, also natives of Pennsylvania. Her parents removed to Illinois in 1865 where they resided for five years when they went to Iowa and iu 1887 came to York county. Mr. Osborn is a veteran of the Civil war, having served in a Pennsylvania regiment for nearly three years. After coming to York he retired from active business. Mr. and Mrs. Osborn were the parents of seven children and in addition took another child to rear. Those living are : Rose A., the widow of Levi Sweet, who resides in Illinois; Francis Marion, a marshal at Leon, Iowa; Alfred, who is employed in Illinois; Mrs. Foster; Mack, who is a plasterer by trade and resides in York ; and Mrs. J. W. Barnett who resides in jSTorth York. Mr. Barnett is now holding the position of county assessor and he is a member of the G. A. R. and a republican in politics. Both Mr. and Mrs. Osborn are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Foster two children have been born, namely: Harry Clyde, who is assistant manager of the National Refining Company of Omalia ; and Clarence E., wlio is also connected with the National Refining Company of Omaha, looking after the repairing of trucks. Clarence E. enlisted during the World war and was in training at Lincoln preparatory to going abroad, when the armistice was signed. Mrs. Foster is residing in York in a nice home at 507 W. 6th street, and she is active in the interest of the Methodist Episcopal church of wliich she is a member.

During all the years of Mr. Foster's life he gave his allegiance to the democratic party and he was always well versed on the questions and issues of the day. He was also active in fraternal circles being a member of the Modern Woodmen and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. In the fourteen years of his residence in York he made many friends. He was known to have employed only the most honorable and fair methods in his business affairs and at his demise both town and county lost a progressive and representative citizen.

Henry Staehr

Among the prominent farmers of York county is Heni7 Staehr, wlio is a native of Beaver township, this county, his birth having occurred on tlie old homestead of his father. May 12, 1873. He is a son of Carsten Staehr, mention of whom is made elsewhere in this work.

The boyhood days of Henry Staehr were spent on the homestead and ho well remembers the pioneer conditions that in this day of luxury and ease would seem hardships indeed. He worked with his father on the home place until he was twenty-three years of age at which time his father assisted him in purchasing a farm on wliich he still resides. There were only small buildings on the land when he came into possession of it but it is now considered one of the finest farms in the county and has first-class improvements. This one hundred and twenty acres is located on the west section, the home place, one hundred and fifty-nine acres, being tlic southwest quarter of section 35, Beaver township.

Mr Staehr has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Johanna Backhus, a native of York county. Siie died leaving four children : Kathrina, the wife of Carl Wellman ; William; Hanna, who is the wife of Ed Noller; and Amanda. Mr. Staehr's second wife was Minnie Brackhan, a native of York county. Two children liave been born to this union, nainelv : Marv and Alfred.

Mt. and Mrs. Staehr are consistent members of the Lutheran church in tlie activities of whicli organization they take a prominent part. The ability of Mr. Staehr is readily recognized throughout the community and he is happy in the esteem and respect of his fellow citizens.

James F. Coxway

In pioneer days James F. Conway came to York county and experienced all of the hardships and privations of frontier life while engaged in the arduous task of developing a new farm. After years passed on, however, he was fortunate in his undertaking and became one of the prosperous agriculturists of his section of the state. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, February 29, 18.53, and was therefore fifty-six years of age when he passed away in 1008. He was but a year old when his parents removed with their family to Allamakee county, Iowa. He completed his education in Prairie du Chien College of Wisconsin, and for a year was engaged in teaching in Iowa. In 1874, when twenty-two years of age, he removed to Nebraska and for a year taught in Seward county.

In 1878 in York county Mr. Conway was married to Miss Hattie E. Martin, who was born in Dodge county, Wisconsin, a daughter of Xoah and Hannah Jane (Prest) Martin. The mother was born in Monmouth county, Xew Jersey, in 1816 and died Xovember 28, 1891. The father was born in the state of Xew Jersey in 1818, and passed away in 1877. They were married in Xew Jersey and in 1856 removed to Wisconsin, whence they came to York county in March, 1868. The father homesteaded near what is now McCool, where his death occurred. In the Martin family were twelve children but ordy four are living; John P., a miller now at Big Fork, Montana ; x\sa W., a contractor and builder of mills, in Xebraska, traveling all over the state in the performance of his work; Richard P., a farmer of Litchfield, and Mrs. Conway.

To Mr. and Mrs. Conway were born nine children : Pose J.; the wife of 0. E. Tilden, a farmer living near Thayer; Cora E., at home; John W., residing on a farm east of York; Thomas 0., who occupies a farm in Madison county, Xebraska; Pearl H., at home; Delia M., the wife of George Bremer of Jerome, Idaho, who for one term was a member of the state senate, and is now overseer of the South Side Irrigation System: Effie B., the wife of Paul A. Stein))erg, living on a farm near Bradshaw; James F., who for three years followed farming, but is now living at York; and Asa B., at home.

For tliree years after coming to York county ilr. Conway taught school. He had homesteaded prior to his marriage but traded that property and he and his wife lived on another farm, occupying a sod house for one year, at the end of which time they took up their abode in a frame house. Later they returned to the old homestead which they occupied for seven years, and on the expiration of the period removed to the village of Thayer, where they remained until 1900, and then went to York that their children might enjoy the opportunities accorded by the school system of this city. While at Thayer Mr. Conway engaged in merchandising and was also assessor and justice of the peace. He had but four hundred dollars when he came to Xebraska but as the years passed his financial resources increased and he became the owner of a large amount of land and was also interested in the Farmers Bank at York. He left an estate of nine hundred and twenty acres in York, and Mrs. Conway has since purchased six hundred and ten acres, also in York county. She also owns a beautiful residence which Mr. Conway had purchased in York. She has ably managed the estate, displaying excellent business ability in her care and improvement of the property. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and also of the Daughters of Rebekah. Mr. Conway belonged to the Modern Woodmen and was well known in the order and by many with whom business and social relations brought him into contact, while the sterling worth of his character gained for him the high regard of all who knew him. Therefore his death was the occasion of deep regret to many who had learned to value him as a most substantial citizen and true friend.

For thirty-three years W. H. Newcomer now deceased was a successful farmer in York county. He was. born in. Fayette county, Pennsylvania, on the 30th of July, 1816, a son of Daniel aild Abigail (Leckrone) Newcomer. His parents were both natives of Pennsylvania- where, they spent their lives. Mr. Newcomer was a successful farmer and followed that occupation until his death in 1869. His widow survived him for several years. Seven children were born to this union, five sons and two daughters. W. H. Newcomer, the subject of this review, is the only member of the family residing in the west.

W. H. Newcomer was reared on a farm in his native county and received his education there. He continued to farm in this county until 1875, at which time he removed to Illinois and settled in Knox county. For two years he farmed there successfully, at the termination of which time he located in Henry county, that state. In 1879 he came to Nebraska and settled in York county. He purchased a farm in Thayer township and there made his home until 1900. The farm had no improvements and he made his home in a sod house for a number of years. He later built a fine residence and outbuildings. In the cultivation of the land, which had but eighty acres under cultivation at the time he purchased it, he was gratifyingly successful. In 1900 Mr. Newcomer removed to York and purchased a nice home at 81.3 Elmer avenue. Here he lived practically retired until his death but still maintained an interest in his land which consisted of six hundred and forty acres in York county and one hundred and sixty acres in Lincoln county, to which he would make frequent visits. For the twelve years that Mr. Newcomer resided in York he made many and fast friends and at his loss a feeling of widespread bereavement swept the community.

In 1868 in Pennsylvania occurred the marriage of Mr. Newcomer and Miss Catherine Henderson, a daughter of Stewart and Elizabeth A. Henderson, both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson later removed to Illinois where the father died. His widow survived him a number of years. Five children were born to that union, three of whom are living. Mrs. Newcomer was the second in order of birth. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Newcomer eight children have been Ijorn, six of whom are living, namely : Mary, the wife of Fred Conant, a retired farmer of York; Dora, wlio is the widow of William Myers, and resides in Lincoln; William H., who is residing on the old homestead in York county; Cora, the wife of George Werner, who resides in Laporte, Indiana; Carrie, who is the wife of Harry Johns, a farmer in York county; and Blanche, who is the wife of Wallace Lloyd who is engaged in farming in York county. The Newcomer family were reared in the faith of the Lutheran church and Mrs. Newcomer is still active in the affairs of that organization.

Throughout his entire life Mr. Newcomer gave his support to the republican party which found in him a stalwart advocate. Although he devoted the greater part of his time to his farming interests he was always well informed .on the questions and issues of the day. Fraternally he was a Mason and an exemplary member of the order. Mrs. Newcomer is still living and is residing in the home at York, a highly respected citizen. She is now in possession of a half section of land from which she derives a substantial income.

Henhy W. Bolton

Henry W. Bolton now occupies an attractive home in Benedict to which he retired in 1916, wdiere he is surrounded with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. For many years he was prominently and actively identified with farming, taking up that work in York county in 1891, prior to which he had been similarly engaged in Iowa. He was born near Richmond, Virginia, December 25, 1859, a sou of David and Martha (Fisher) Bolton, both natives of Virginia, where the father followed his trade of millwright.

David Bolton left Virginia in 1862 and went to Cedar county, Iowa, and there he built a frame house and resumed his occupation as a millwright. About that time he was called on to serve with the Federal army and participated in many of the engagements of the Civil war, finally being honorably discharged, when he returned to civil life and took up his ordinary occupation. He passed away in 1910, having lived to the advanced age of eighty-six, and left behind him a name for probity and manly worth to which all the actions of his long life entitled him. He was a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and a jiractiral supporter of its teachings. In politics he gave his allegiance for a considerable time to the republican party but later suiii-torted democratic policies, the change in his party athliatious being the outcome of conviction. His wife survived until 1917 when she passed away amid the sorrow of all her friends, being then eighty-nine years old. They were the i)arents of the following children: Mary, widow of J. H. Bolton, of Council Bluffs, Iowa : Armetta, deceased; James, living at Council Bluffs; Tosh, of Milford, Nebraska; Anna, wife of A. H. Garrett, of Brush, Colorado; Sarah, wife of Lee Johnson, of Sargent, Nebraska; Henry W.; Edward; Charles, li\iiig in Iowa; and Lloyd, a retired farmer, of York county.

Henry \X. Bolton was reared in his father's home in Iowa and was educated in the common schools of that state. Selecting the career of a farmer for his life work, he rented land in Iowa and continued to work along that line for several years. In 1888 he came to Nebraska, settled in Saunders county and rented a tract of land which he operated for about two years. He carefully husbanded his resources and saved money with the object of buying a farm. In this ho was successful and in 1891 he removed to York county, renting for a time and finally purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Morton township, later increasing his lioldings to four hundred and eighty acres, in two farms, having two sets of buildings, the ownership of which lie still retains. Apart from the general farming and stock raising he specialized in feeding cattle for the market and in this latter department of his agricultural activities he achieved a remarkable success. Before retiring in 1016 Mr. Bolton had brought his properties to a well improved condition, and he is now living in well earned comfort at Benedict. He continues to be interested in business affairs, is a stockholder in the York Milling Company, in the Farmers Elevator at Benedict and in Farmers Elevator at Mapp, from all of these investments deriving a nice income. He is a man of determined purpose and resolute will and whatever he undertakes he carries forward to succes.sful completion. In 1886 Mr. Bolton was joined in marriage to Sarah J. Wilkinson, a native of Mills county, Iowa, whom he met and married while living in that state. She accompanied him to York county in 1891 and in all the intervening years she has been a faithful ^Wfc and practical helpmeet, which_no one is more ready to acknowledge than her husband. To their' union eight children were born, six of whom are living: Ray, who operates his father's fann in York county; Edith, deceased, who became the wife of Miles Shaw ; Ina, wife of Edgar Farley, of York county; Floyd, a farmer, of York county; Frank, residing in Miller, South Dakota; Lottie, deceased; and Carl and Cecil, living at home. Mrs. Bolton is a member of the Lutheran church and is prominent socially in the community where she resides. He supports the democratic party and is a member of the township board, to the work of which he gives diligent service. His many admirable qualities are generally recognized and there is no resident of the county more highly esteemed than he.

Nelsox Peter Roxxe

Xelson Peter Ronne, a retired farmer, now a resident of York, was born in Denmark, September 29, 1857, the son of Lorenzen Peter and Berge'tta Malgaalr Ronne. His father was a jeweler and worked at his trade in the old country until he passed away. The mother also died in Germany.

Nelson Peter Ronne was reared in his native land, educated in the common schools there, and was apprenticed to the butcher trade which it required about four or five years to learn. Before he completed his apprenticeship, however, he came to America and found employment on a farm near York\'ille, Kendal county, Illinois, where he worked for one man for seven years, and then rented land for his own use. In 1883 he moved to Nebraska and bought eighty acres of unimproved land in Baker township, York county. These were days when there were many sod houses to be seen and the farmer had many difficulties to overcome, requiring more than ordinary courage and perseverance. His first home was a sixteen by twenty frame house which burned down and had to be relniilt. Four years later he sold this land and bought one hundred and sixty acres in Henderson township, and during the following ten years he and his wife and sons tore down and rel)uilt all the farm buildings, thus advancing the value of the property. He now owns four hundred and eighty acres well improved with two complete sets of farm buildings, which shows that he has indeed been successful, as he had but one hundred dollars to pay on his land when he arrived in this country. His faithfulness to his first employer was rewarded, as that man became his friend and provided financial backing whenever Mr. Eonne needed it after coming to York county.

Mr. Eonne was married in Kendall county, Illinois, in 1881, to Mary Jane Kerr, a native of Belfast, Ireland. They are the parents of five boys: Lorcnzn Peter, who is a dentist in Lincoln, Nebraska ; Harry, who has been blind since he was twenty years old, now operates a telephone switchboard, at Lushton, Nebraska ; John N., assistant chief clerk in the Frisco Railroad freight office, in Kansas City; Clyde, who operates a part of his father's farm; and Carey A., who also is engaged in farming. All of the sons are married, and there are eight grandchildren.

Mr. Ronne has always spelled his name the way it was spelled in the old country, although in English it should be spelled Runne. He has always been a credit to his name and his record is that of a pioneer farmer who has not only built up his own fortunes in a frontier community but has aided materially in developing the district. Mr. Ronne is a member of the ^Methodist church and in politics is a republican and has steadfastly supported the candidates and measures of that party although he is in no sense a politician, prefcring to devote his whole time to the attention of his private affairs.

J. Edwin Smith

For about eighteen years J. Edwin Smith has been engaged in the undertaking business in York and as a result of his diligence and industry is enjoying a substantial amount of success. He is a native of Iowa, born in Washington county that state on the 23rd of December, 1866, a son of W. A and Sarah (Singer) Smith. The father was born in Ohio in 18.36, and the mother in New Y'ork state in 1844. Removing to Iowa with their parents in their early youth, they met and were married and spent the remaimler of their lives there. Mr. Smith engaged in blacksmitliing for a number of years and was very successful in this business. On the outbreak of the Civil war he was among the first to enlist, joining Company A of the Nineteenth Iowa Infantry, with which he served nearly four years. He participated in many of the most important battles of the war and was discharged with the rank of color-bearer. Mr. Smith died in 1919, his wife having passed away forty-four years ago. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Smith six children were born, three of whom are living, namely: J. Edwin, the subject of this review; T. E., overseer in a chair factory at Fort Madison, Iowa; and H. A., who is state agent for an insurance company. The family were reared in the Methodist Episcopal faith and Mr. Smith was a stanch republican and Mason. The paternal grandfather, John R. Smith, was a native of Ohio but in later life removed to Iowa where he engaged in farming until his death. He was very active in the work of the Methodist Episcopal church of which he was a member.

In the acquirement of his education J. Edwin Smith attended the schools of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and in due time entered the Methodist College at York. In

1880 he came to York (-oiinty with his uucle, T. N. Smith, and commenced work on a farm. Some time later his uncle removed to York and bought a grocery store and Mr. J. E. Smith gave up his farm work and came to work for him, continuing in this line of business for eight years. For the next eight years he clerked in a clothing store and then engaged in farming for a period of three years. In 1902 he determined to start in business on his own account and deciding to take up undertaking as his particular line, entered the Barnes School of Anatomy and Science of Embalming in 1903, becoming thoroughly familiar with all phases of the work.

In 1892 Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Winnifred Ferguson, a native of Illinois and a daughter of Nelson E. Ferguson who came to York county at an early day, acquired a homestead and lived thereon until his death. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Smith five children have been born : Enid, the wife of J. B. Everhardt, advertising manager for the Dempster Manufacturing Company, and she having charge of the first aid department in the mill; Mildred, who is residing at home; and Raymond, Leland and Josephine, all in school. The family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Mr. Smith gives his allegiance to the republican party and is an active worker in politics. For two terms he served the county of York as coroner, which position he filled to the best of his ability. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the A. F. & A. M. and is also a Royal Arch Mason. He is a past chancellor in the Knights of Pythias and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Starting out in life witii nothing but the grim determination to win out he has advanced step by step until he is now recognized as one of the leading undertakers of the county.

J. A. Ruddock

The press of a city or town is usually regarded as an index wherehy may be gauged the material and social progress which a locality is making. This is exemplified in the life work of J. A. Ruddock, a well known printer and publisher of Gresham, who has spent all the active years of his life engaged in newspaper work and at present is the owner of the Gresham Gazette. He was born in Sergeant Bluff, Woodbury county, Iowa, September 20, 1880, a son of Thomas .and Vira (Scovell) Ruddock, the former a railroad man who came to Gresham in February, 1892, as section foreman and remained here until 1896, when he returned to Iowa and had been in that state but four weeks when his death occurred at the age of sixty-two years. His widow is still living and is in her seventieth year.

J. A. Ruddock accompanied his parents to York county in 1892 and completed his education in the public schools of Gresham. On quitting school he learned the trade of a printer under the guidance of H. M. McGaffin of the Gresham Gazette and was employed on the paper for four years, during this period having acquired a practical knowledge of the business. On leaving the Gazette he went to Valparaiso and worked for a time on the Valparaiso Visitor, from which place he went to David City and there became foreman of the Butler County Press, remaining in that capacity for one year. In October, 1919, he entered into arrangements for the purchase of the Gresham Gazette, and immediately took it over as publisher and owner. Tlie Gazette is an independent weekly publication with a steadily growing circulation and is devoted to the task of upholding the progressive spirit which has brought Gresham and the surrounding district to their status. The paper is equipped with the most modern machinery and type and in conjunction therewith a job printing department is operated in which all classes of general printing are produced. The composing and publication room of a newspaper is sometimes alluded to as "the poor man's college," in view of the immense opportunities that are offered the novice for self-advancement. Mr. Ruddock was not slow to take advantage of his opportunities and this has been amply demonstrated in his career, but more especially since he became a publisher in his own right.

In 1905 Mr. Ruddock was united in marriage to Ruth Pogue, a native of Seward county and a daughter of J. W. Pogue, an early settler and well known resident. Mr. and Mrs. Ruddock are the parents of one son, Donald. Mrs. Ruddock is a member of the Presbyterian church and all movements for the moral and civic as well as for the material upbuilding of Gresham receive her hearty support. Mr. Ruddock favors the principles of the republican party and has been village clerk for some time. He is affiliated with the Royal Highlanders.

W. H. Brooke

W. H. Brooke of York is one of the most prominent men in the agricultural line throughout the county. He not only owns land in York county but has an extensive farm in Holt county on which he has six hundred and fifty head of the finest breed cattle. He is residing in York, however, where he has made his home for four years, during which time he has taken an active interest in the development of the community and has made many friends who recognize his true worth.

W. H. Brooke was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, December 7, 1866, a son of Richard and Agnes (Dean) Brooke, both natives of Pennsylvania. The father had traveled extensively and was a well educated man. At the age of seventeen years he had left his home and crossed the plains to California, making this trip seven times. In early life he engaged in the cattle business and during the Civil war purchased a number of sheep which he took to Texas and sold. From this sale he realized a substantial amount of money and in 1874 came to York county as one of the pioneer settlers. He ac(iuired a homestead in LcRoy township and for a number of years resided in a sod house on this land. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Brooke two children were born, namely: W. H., the subject of this review; and Richard F., a prominent farmer in York county, who is now making his home in York. The Brooke family were consistent members of the United Brethren church and the father was a stanch supporter of the republican party. Mr. Brooke's death occurred in 1016 and Mrs. Brooke is making her home with her son, W. H. The maternal grandfather was Levi Dean, and further mention of the Dean family is made in the sketch of Nathaniel A. Dean to be found elsewhere in this work.

In the acquirement of an education W. H. Brooke attended the schools of York county and after putting his textbooks aside engaged in farming, which occupation he has followed throughout his life. For a number of years he farmed on rented land in York county and then purchased some land which he cultivated for two years. In 1917 he purchased a ranch in Holt county consisting of one thousand four hundred and eighty acres, a portion of which is put into hay. He has six hundred and fifty head of cattle on this ranch. For four years he has made his home in York wlaere he is a representative citizen.

In 1887 occurred the marriage of Mr. Brooke to Miss Ida Heller, a native of York county and a daughter of Peter Heller. Her father was a pioneer homesteader of York. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Brooke three children have been born, namely: Carl, who is a traveling salesman; Clair, who is working with his father in the management of his land; and Florence, the wife of John Corcoran who is living in jSTorth Dakota.

Since age conferred upon Mr. Brooke the right of franchise he has given his allegiance to the republican party which has found in him a stanch advocate. For some time he served as town committee-man and he is always interested in the leading questions and issues of the day. He has never sought nor desired public office, preferring rather to devote his time to his ranching interests. Mrs. Brooke is an active member of the United Brethren church and he is fraternally affiliated with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Throughout York county Mr. Brooke is widely recognized as a most progressive and successful farmer and his farm in that county is numbered among the finest. His buildings are large and modern and represent the ideal country home. Mr. Brooke is of a kindly and generous disposition, giving freely to various charitable organizations and assisting in the maintenance of York College.

E. W. Raikes, who for more than thirty-three years has been actively identified with the business life of Gresham where he is well known in the blacksmithing trade, is a native of Kentucky, born in Marion county, that state, September 17, 1845, a son of Benjamin and Martha (Murrell) Raikes, the former of whom spent his life engaged in agricultural operations in Kentucky. Both he and his wife passed away many years ago and are buried in Kentucky, that state being also their birthplace.

E. W. Raikes was reared on liis father's farm in Kentucky and was educated in the schools of his native county. In his early youth he helped on the home farm and later learned the blacksmith trade, which at that time was in a flourishing condition in and around his home district. He followed his trade for some years in Kentucky and in 1872 moved to the state of Illinois and settled near Petersburg, there resuming his trade of blacksmith and also engaged in farming, carrying on these dual occupations for twelve years. He was successful from the start and became financially prosperous. About 1884 he crossed the country to Nebraska and settled in Seward county, there putting up a blacksmith shop in the country district where he followed his business for two years. In 1886 when Gresham was being organized Mr. Raikes saw the possibilities of the new town and moved there, building a blacksmith shop without delay and later established two more, and at the same time was a wood worker. He devotes all his time to his business interests and has country-wide reputation for prompt and excellent work. He was one of the

While living in Illinois Mr. Raikes was married to Mary Casteel, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 18.56 and who died in March, 1905. Three children were born to the union: Lizzie, deceased; Thomas, of Greeley county, Nebraska; and Emma, the wife of Swan Peterson of Polk county. Mr. Raikes attends the United Brethren church and is a stanch supporter of the republican party. He has been affiliated with the Royal Highlanders for many years. In matters pertaining to the welfare of Gresham he is practical and progressive and is a worthy citizen in every respect.

Frank H. Baldwin

Since about 190.5 Frank H. Baldwin has been living retired in York in his modern home at 507 Thompson avenue. Mr. Baldwin was born in La Salle county, Illinois, on the 20th of December, 1857, a son of Franklin and Mary (Johnson) Baldwin. His parents were natives of New York state and were married there, soon after removing to Illinois where they settled on government land. The father purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land at one dollar and twentyfive cents an acre. For a number of years they resided on the land and then removed to a farm in La Salle county, later removing to De Kalb county and suljsequently to the little village of Sandwich where they resided for eight years. The mother's death occurred while living on the farm. Sometime after his wife's death Franklin Baldwin married Mary J. Carpenter. In 1880 he removed to York county, where he purchased some land. His land speculations had been very successful and at the time of his death he was in possession of one thousand acres of land. Five children were born to the first marriage, two of whom are living: Frank H., the subject of this review; and Mary, the wife of W. W. Wykoff of York. Two of the children died in childhood and Granville E. died in York in 1915. The members of the Baldwin family were consistent members of the Congregational church. Franklin Baldwin was a stanch supporter of the republican party and held various township offices. He was a son of Seth Baldwin who was born in Durham, Connecticut, in 1775, removed to New York in 1804 and died there on the 22d of February, 1832. The Baldwin family for generations were prominent in the east, the ancestors having come to the United States from England in the early part of the fourteenth century. A brother of Franklin Baldwin, Dwight, graduated from Yale, later settled in New York state where he married, and removed with his family to the Sandwich Islands. This trip he made around Cape Horn and became a missionary on these islands. The children are still living on the island and are holding positions of prominence, having become millionaires.

In the acquirement of an education Frank H. Baldwin attended the })ublic schools of Sandwich, Illinois, and the district schools of La Salle county, the same state. At the age of nineteen years he quit school and started farming on a part of his father's land in Illinois and later rented land, living with an elder brother. On the 16th of December, 1880, Mr. Baldwin left for York county, coming through with some stock in a freight car, the trip requiring seven days and on the 23d of

Feanklin Baldwin Public Ub-.Aby

December, 1880, he arrived in York. His father had purchased some land in this county and Mr. Baldwin moved onto it, "baching" it for a period of eighteen months. Besides farming Mr. Baldwin fed and raised live stock in which occupations he was very successful. About 1905 he decided to retire from active life and removed to York where he built a beautiful modern home at 507 Thompson avenue. He has rented all of his land, still retaining four hundred and eighty acres of it. Although Mr. Baldwin is practically retired he takes an interest in the financial circles of York, being a director in the City National Bank.

In 1888 Mr. Baldwin was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Graves. She was an orphan and had been reared to young womanliood by Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Graves. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin four children have been born, three of whom are living, namely : Harry D., who is a fireman on the Union Pacific railroad and resides at North Platte; Bernice L., the wife of Frank A. Peterson, residing six miles northwest of York ; and Florence Helen, who attended Monticello seminary at St. Louis, is at home. The third member of the family, Vernon G., di^d at the age of twenty-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin are consistent members of the Congregational church and prominent in the affairs of the organization.

Mr. Baldwin has always given his allegiance to the republican party and it has always found in him a stanch advocate. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. At all points in his career he has been actuated by a laudable ambition and his activity and evenpaced energy have carried him steadily forward.

Heineich G. Epp

Heinrich G. Epp, actively identified with farming and stock raising in York county, his home being on section 4, Henderson township, belongs to an old and well known family of this section of the state that comes to Nebraska from southern Eussia. It was there that Mr. Epp of this review was born June 5, 1863, his parents being Gerhard and Katherine (Dick) Epp, both of whom were natives of Eussia, whence they came to the new world in 1875. They at once journeyed across the country to York county and took up their abode on section 3, Henderson township, where the father purchased railroad land and began the development of a farm. He resided thereon until his death, which occurred in 1893, while his widow survived for eleven years and was then called to her final rest. In their family were sixteen children, four of whom are living.

Heinrich G. Epp obtained his education in the schools of Eussia but never had the opportunity of attending school in York county, as they settled in a frontier district and his labors were needed in the development of the home farm. He continued with his parents until he reached the age of twenty-eight years, his time and attention being given to the work of the fields from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. On lea\Tng home he took up his abode on the farm which he now occupies. Here he owns two hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land, which he has brought under a high state of cultivation, so that he annually gathers good harvests. He also owns one hundred and sixty acres in Oklahoma. He has always carried on general farming and stock

In 1892 Mr. P]j)p was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Ruller, a native of southern Russian, and to them have been born seventeen cliiidren: Sarah, the wife of Jacob Kreker: Oerhart, deceased; Katherine, Margaret, David, Dietrich, Isaac, Anna and Abrahain If., all at home; Aaron and Benjamin, twins, both of whom have passed away; Agnes, at home; Eva, deceased: Jacob and Henry, twins, the former now deceased ; Helen : and Peter.

Mr. and Mrs. Epp are meml)ers of the Bethesda church, in the work of which Mr. Epp takes an active and helpful part. He is interested in all that pertains to the moral progress as well as the material development of the community in which he lives. For more than forty-five years he has been a resident of York county and therefore has witnessed practically its entire development and upbuilding. Great indeed have been the changes which have occurred during this period and in all the work of advancement Mr. Epp has been deeply interested, lending his aid and cooperation to every plan and movement for the general good.

Horton M. Detrick

While Ilorton il. Detrick is living retired be was for many years actively identified with agricultural interests in Nebraska and contributed much to the agricultural development of the state. Tic is now enjoying a well earned rest, the fruits of his former toil supplying him with all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. He was born in Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, October 26, 1835, so that he has now passed the eighty-fifth milestone on life's journey. His parents were of German lineage. During his boyhood days Horton M. Detrick devoted his time to school work and to assisting his father who was a contractor and builder, his time being thus passed until ISoG. lie then went with his father to Iowa where the latter purchased a farm and Hort<Ju M. Detrick aided in the cultivation of the land in addition to following his trade. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the Fourth Iowa ('avalry, as a member of Company D, and in 1864 reenlisted at Vicksburg as a veteran of the same regiment, serving until tlie end of the war. He was wounded in the right shoulder at Columbus, Georgia, during the last battle in which his regiment participated. He made liis home in Iowa until the spring of 1870 when he came to Nebraska and here homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 30, township 11, range 2, west, just outside the city limits of York.

With characteristic energy Mr. Detrick began the improvement ami development of his place and resided thereon until 1890, when he took up his abode in the city and retired from active business. His house on the farm was located in a beautiful grove and there was an excellent orchard upon the place.

In Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on the 25th of October, 1865, Mr. Detrick was married to Miss Jennie C. Andrews, a native of Vermont, and they have become parents of five children: Effie E., who is a graduate of Nebraska Wesleyan University; Jesse W., who was connected with the United States mail service for twenty-three years and is now deceased; Estella N., who was city librarian at York for nine years and is now the wife of R. E. Lynds, their home heing near \'isalia, California ; Hiram, who was engaged in the drug business in York and is now deceased: and Lulu, who was deputy county superintendent of schools and is now the wife of M. S. Hargraves, of Alliance, Nebraska. Mr. and Mrs. Detrick have four grandchildren.

Mr. Detrick has always been interested in the cause of education and he served on the school board for a number of years, filling the otRce for fourteen consecutive years. He has labored untiringly for the welfare and upbuilding of this section of the state. In politics he is a republican and served for si.x consecutive years as a member of the York county board of supervisors, representing the city of York. He has also been a member of the city council and was postmaster of York from 1890 until 189.T through appointment of President Benjamin Harrison. In 1902 he was elected to the lower house of the state legislature from the thirty-eighth district and was reelected in 1904. During his first term he was chairman of the Soldiers' Home committee and was a member of the committee on public lands, judiciary and county organization. During the second session he served as chairman of the committee on claims and was a member of the Soldiers' Home committee. He took a most keen and active interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the state and gave the weight of his influence to every measure that he deemed of lienefit to the commonwealth. He is a member of York Lodge, No. 35, I. 0. 0. F., and of Robert Anderson Post, No. 32, G. A. R., of York, thus maintaining pleasant relations with his old army comrades. His life has been a busy and useful one, gaining for him the respect, confidence and goodwill of all, and liis arc now "the blest accompaniments of age - honor, riches, troops of friends."

Lewis AV. Troutman. who is now living retired at Benedict after many years of successful farming, was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, December 10, 18.53, a son of John and Rebecca (Hoyman) Troutman. His father was a farmer in the Keystone state for some years and died in 1854 at the very early age of twenty-five years, the subject of this sketch at that time being a mere infant. John Troutman was a member of the Lutheran church and in politics gave his su])port to democratic policies. Some time later his widow married for her second husband Nicholas Burket, also a native of Pennsylvania, and to this second union five children were born : Benjamin Franklin Burket, who died in Ohio : James P., deceased ; Charles W., living in Kansas; Emma, wife of Lee Smith, and Anna, who married a Mr. Frantz, and lives in Maryland. The mother of these children passed away in 186.">, in her thirty-seventh year. She was an earnest meml)er of the Lutheran church, which she assisted by her moral and financial support.

. Lewis W. Troutman, deprived of his father in the first year of his life, was taken to Iowa and Illinois by his mother after her second marriage, and in the schools of these states he secured his education. When fourteen years old he commenced his farming career in Iowa and continued to work out on farms in Iowa and Illinois for about twelve years, later farming on his own account for twehe months. With the experience thus gained Mr. Troutman came to York county in the spring of

1879 and resumed working on farms by the month. Later he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land which he devoted to general farming and stock raising. His first house was a frame structure, fourteen by twenty feet, and he continued to occupy this for twelve years. His success in agriculture has been mainly through his own efforts and untiring energy. He retired in 1916 and went to reside in Benedict, where he built a fine residence in 1917.

On March 23, 1881, Mr. Troutman was married to Emma J. Troutman, who was born in Blackhawk county, Iowa. His political leanings are toward the republican party, but he frequently votes an independent ticket. His wife is a member of the Lutheran church.

William M. Overstreet

Since 1910 William M. Overstreet has engaged in the automobile business in York, handling Buick and Cadillac cars and in addition conducting a general auto repair and accessory business. He was born in Galesburg, Illinois, February 11, 1868, a son of Robert and Charlotte (Bull) Overstreet, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Connecticut. Their marriage occurred in Galesburg where Robert Overstreet had come with his father, at the age of one year, the trip from Kentucky to Illinois being made by covered wagon and they settled in Galesburg. Robert Overstreet received his education in Galesburg and spent liis early life there. In 1884 he removed to York county, bought some land, which is still retained in the family, and became a farmer and stock man. In 190.5 he retired from active life and returned to Galesburg. His death occurred on the 1st of May, 1917, while visiting his son. The mother is still living at the advanced age of seventy-five years. Three children were born to this union, two of whom are living : William M., the subject of this review ; and Luther M., who attended the State L'niversity and the United States Xaval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, and is now a captain in the navy, in which service he has been for twenty-seven years. The family were reared in the faith of the Congregational church and Mr. Overstreet was a stanch supporter of the republican party and a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He had one brother in the Civil war. The grandfather of the subject of this review, was Martin L. Overstreet, boni in Kentucky but went to Galesburg early in life, becoming a farmer and stock feeder. The maternal grandfather, G. F. Bull, was a native of New Haven, Connecticut, but in 1855 removed to Illinois where he resided until his death. He was a broom manufacturer.

William M. Overstreet was reared on a farm and received his education in the schools of York county. After putting his textbooks aside he engaged in farming and stock raising until 1910 when he removed to York. In connection with his farming he had carried on an automobile business in Polk and was so successful in this line that he determined to enlarge his facilities. On removing to York he immediately entered into the business in partnership with L. M. Lincoln and his son, Leigh Lincoln, and they handle Buick and Cadillac cars. They are the distributors in this district which consists of seven counties. In connection with the agency for these cars he does a general auto and repair business. They own a large brick garage, having one hundred and twenty feet square of floor space with room for one hundred cars. He takes a great interest in this business and devotes most of his time to it. However, he owns several farms in York county on which he raises Duroe hogs - about five hundred a year. This particular farm consists of three hundred and twenty acres. He obtained eighty acres of land from his father to begin with and has bought more land until he now owns six hundred and forty acres in York county. He recently refused an offer of one hundred thousand dollars for his home farm of three hundred and twenty acres.

In December, 1891, Mr. Overstreet was united in marriage to Miss Edith Grieves, a native of Burlington, Iowa, and to this union one daughter, Helen, has been born. She attended St. Mary's school in Illinois two years, attended the State University for one year, and also spent one year in Los Angeles, California. She is now in Chicago engaged in the settlement work of Northwestern University.

Mr. Overstreet gives his allegiance to the republican party in the interests of which he is very active. For four years he was a member of the city council, filling that position with ability. Fraternally he is allied with the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Knights of Pythias, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Travelers Protective Association. In all of these orders he is an exemplary member. The Overstreet family are consistent members of the Congregational church and Mrs. Overstreet and daughter take an active interest in the various church activities. As a progressive business man Mr. Overstreet takes an interest in the betterment of all local conditions, and he is a member of the Rotary Club and one of the directors of the Commercial Club. Mr. and Mrs. Overstreet are prominent in the social circles of York and are members of the Country Club. There is no phase of the automobile business with which Mr. Overstreet in not familiar and tlie business success which lie now enjoys is the result of his own diligence and industry.

Liman M. Miller

Liman M. Miller, deceased, was for many years a prominent farmer in York county. He was born in Springfield, Ohio, in March, 1851, and died on the 8th of November, 1916, at York. The ])arents of Liman M. Miller were Amos and Sarah (Thompson) Miller, the former a native of Pennsylvania while the latter was born in Ohio. They removed to Iowa and thence to Nebraska in 187(1, where he acquired a homestead and resided until his death. Four children were born to this union, all of whom are living with the exception of Liman M., the subject of this review. They were consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church and he was a democrat in politics.

Liman M. Miller received his education in the common schools of Iowa and in 1870 removed to York county, two years later when he became of age, acquiring a homestead of eighty acres to which he later annexed an additional three hundred and twenty acres which he highly improved. He built a fine home on this land and many outbuildings and it was recognized as one of the finest farms in the county. For thirty-seven years he and his wife and family resided on this farm, at the termination of which time he removed to York l)ut still retained possession of the farm which is now owned by the widow and children. He built a fine residence at 521 E. 6th street, in 1908, and here the widow resides alone.

In 1873 Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Alice Bahcock wlio was born near Madison, Wisconsin, in 1855, a daughter of John and Sarah (Martin) Babcock. Her parents were both born in the state of Xew ^'ork and at an early day settled in Wisconsin. From there tliey removed tu Icjwa where he engaged in farming for a time and in September, 186!), came to York county to live. Here they acquired a homestead where they spent the remainder of their lives. At the time the Babcocks settled in York county the settlement was very scattered and they suffered many inconveniences. In order to secure their mail it was necessary for them to go to the post office at McFndden, twelve miles away and their grain had to be taken to the mill at Milfonl. Lumber for the building of their houses and outbuildings had to be hauled from Lincoln. During the winter months Mr. Babcock went with his neighbors to hunt buffaloes which were very plentiful in that community. Only the hind quarters of the buifalo were used for food the remainder being left on the plains. Some of this meat was dried for use in the summer. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Miller three children were born: Clifford, who lives in Omaha; Bertha, who is the wife of Harvey Pickerell, a successful farmer of York county ; and Dr. George R., who is a veterinary surgeon at York. Clifford Miller, the eldest son, is married and has two daughters, Gladys and Marjorie. Both daughters are graduates of the York high school, Gladys being twenty years of age and Marjorie nineteen. Marjorie is teaching the school once attended by her grandmother.

Mr. Miller was a stanch supporter of the democratic party and while he was always very active in ])olitics he neither sought nor desired public office. He was, however, a member of the county board when the courthouse was built. Fraternally he was a Mason and an Elk and both he and his wife were members of the Order of the Eastern Star, of which she is past matron. During the years of his residence in York he made many friends and his death was a great blow to the community, for in his passing they lost a citizen of great diligence and progressiveness.

Walter C. Baer

Walter C. Baer of the W. C. Bacr & Company Furniture Store of York was born in Wisconsin on the 11th of February, 1879, the son of Charles and Anna (Hottiger) Baer, mention of whom is made on another page of this work. In the acquirement of his education Walter C. Baer attended the common schools of York and in due time entered Doan College where he remained for one year and in Ivansas City two years. After putting his textbooks aside he engaged in the future business with his father under the firm name of Charles Baer & Sons. For a numlier of years the bu.siness was conducted under this inune but in the fall of 1910 a new store was established, his father having sold out the old one. In this year the father retired and Walter C. Baer in connection with a Mr. (irewell conduct the new business under the name of W. C. Baer & Company. Under the guidance of Mr. Baer the store has been steadily enlarged and today is one of the finest in the county. Believing that satisfied patrons are the best advertisement Mr. Baer has invested in stock of the hisrliest qiialitj' which lie sells to his customers for reasonable and fair prices. On the 9th of February, 1913, Mr. Baer suffered a loss by fire but his father immediately rebuilt, starting the work in November of that year.

On the 25th of June. 1907, Mr. Baer was united in maiTia.ye to Miss Bertha Lee, a native of Silver Creek, Xeliraska, and a daughter of Cyrus H. Lee, an early settler in Merrick county. Mr. Lee engaged in the general merchandise business there for some time in connection with his grain business and was one of the progressive and prominent men of his community. He and his wife are now residing near Jacksonville, Florida. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Baer, one son, Charles Homer, has been born, his birth occurring on the 16th of September, 1914.

Mr. Baer has always followed an independent course in politics although he slightly favors the republican party. He has never sought nor desired public office but as a booster of York and York county there is none better. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias of which he is vice chancellor and also a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He takes an active interest in the develojiment and improvement of York and is a member of the Rotary Club and the Commercial and Country Clubs. Tn the social circles of York Mr. Baer and family are also prominent. Jjearning the business in his early youth he has advanced step by step until he is one of the most progressive business men and representative citizens of York county.

Charles Baer

Charles Baer who was for many years successfully engaged in the furniture business is now living retired in York, a highly respected citizen of that place. He M'as born in Switzerland in 1848, a son of Charles and Judith (Uatticker) Baer, also natives of Switzerland, the former coming to Wisconsin in 1890 where his death occurred and the latter's death occurred in Switzerland. They were the parents of fourteen children, nine of whom are living : Charles, the subject of this review; Alfred, who is living retired in Canyon, Minnesota; Henry, who is retired and residing in York; Sophia, the wife of Charles Kunzelman, a retired farmer at Baraboo, Wisconsin: Selina, who is the widow of .Mr. Charles Horstman, and who re.sides in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Marie, the widow of Mr. Oollmar, resides in Baraboo, AVisconsin; Arnold, who is residing in California where he is em])loyed as a mechanic in the ship building factories; Otto, a farmer in Wisconsin; and Emma, who is living in California.

In the acquirement of his education Charles Baer attended the schools of his luitive land and at the age of nineteen years decided to come to the United States. After arriving in this country he settled in Wisconsin and learning the trade of cabinet-making he engaged in this line of work. For some time he conducted a furniture business in connection with his trade and in 1879 came to Nebraska and in 1880 to York. He bought out the J. E. Phillips Furniture Store and in partnership with his brother conducted this business for a number of years under the name of Baer Brothers. Later Mr. Baer bought his brother's interest, running it alone for some time and then sold out, and took a vacation, visiting Switzerland. When he returned he and Mr. King bought out M. B. Atkins in lS!Ci. Later he bought

Mr. King's interest. When the son was old enough he became a partner and the firm name then became Charles Baer & Son and subsequently Charles Baer & Sons. Mr. Baer retired from the business in 1910 and now his son conducts the store under the name of W. C. Baer & Company. In 1904 the father erected a handsome residence in York and here he is spending his last years. He also owns some business property.

In 1873 Mr. Baer was united in marriage to Miss Anna Hottiger, whose birth occurred in Switzerland on the 23rd of August, 1850, a daughter of Henry and Katharina (Zweifel) Hottiger. Her parents started for the United States to make this their new home, but the father died while on board ship and was biiried at sea. The mother continued on her way with her two baby girls and on arriving in this country settled in Wisconsin. Here she reared her two daughters to womanhood and for twelve years preceding her death she made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Baer. The other daughter was Sarah, who is deceased. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Baer three children have been born : Emma, who received her education in the York high school, the York College, and took a commercial course in a business college; Henry, who is engaged in the real estate business in Loveland, Colorado ; and AV alter, wlio is engaged in the furniture business in York.

Mr. Baer has always followed an inde])endent course in politics. Starting out in life at the age of nineteen years with the grim determination to succeed he has overcome every obstacle that presented itself and is now a well-to-do, successful man residing in his fine residence at 423 E. Fifth street, secure in the high regard and esteem of his fellow citizens.

Heney Maequaedt

For many years Henry Marquardt, deceased, was a prominent and successful farmer in York county. His death occurred in 1916 and came as a sad blow to his many friends in the community.

Henry Marquardt was a native of Germany, having been born in that country in 1856, a son of German parents who spent their lives in Germany and are now deceased. Henry Marquardt received his early education in Germany and at the age of sixteen years left his native land and in company with a brother came to the United States. They arrived in Wisconsin in the spring of 1872 and a year later came to York county where he homesteaded as soon as he became of age. He was a man of great diligence and industry and soon became one of the most progressive farmers in the vicinity. He became financially well-to-do and contributed liberally to the support of his parents in Germany. At first he engaged in general farming but later on he raised live stock. At the time of his death in 1916 Mr. Marquardt was in possession of eight hundred acres of laud.

In 1879 Mr. Marquardt was united in marriage to Miss Henrietta Sacksckewsky, a native of Germany and a daughter of Carl Sacksckewsky who died in that country. The ancestry of Mrs. Marquardt is Polish. Twelve children were born to this union : Eobert, who lives on a farm in New York township ; Henry, at home : Olga, who is residing at home ; John, a farmer residing in Wisconsin ; Louie, a farmer in York county ; Leo, who is engaged in farming in York county ; Alma, who is resid- ii)g ill Fremont: Fred, wiio is engaged in farming: Ilattie. wlio is at lidine: P]ric,' who is employed in the American State Rank: William, at home; and Anna, who is attending high school. Loviie served during the World war, enlisting on the 3rd of May, 1918. He was sent to Camp Fremont in California for training and was aboard ship all ready to sail when the armistice was signed. He was then returned, to Camp Lee, Virginia, where he remained for three months. He received his discharge at Camp Dodge, Iowa.

Throughout his entire life Mr. Marquardt was a member of the democratic party which found in him a stalwart advocate. Although he devoted the greater part of his time to farming he held the position of township assessor for a period of four years. Mr. Marquardt was a consistent member of the Lutheran church and his widow is still active in the various societies of that organization. . He was known to be a man of the most honorable business principles and was very well liked in the community in which resided. In the early part of 1920 Mrs. Marquardt removed to York where slie bought a beautiful home at 183.5 Lincoln avenue. Here she is now residing, a highly esteemed and . respected citizen.

Feedeeick Bichtee

Frederick Eichter is now living retired in Gresham, but for a long period was actively identified with the farming interests of this section of the state and through close application and unremitting energy won a substantial measure of success. He was born in New Haven, Connecticut, June 19, 1861, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Eichter, the former a native of Saxony and the latter, whose maiden name was Wolberger, was born in Bye.r, Germany.

Edward Eichter immigrated from Germany to America, making the ocean voyage on an old sailing vessel, the time occupied in the sea journey being about four weeks. After arriving in New York he went to New Haven, Connecticut, and there resumed his trade as a silk lace weaver, which he had learned in the old country. Li 1861, following Lincoln's call for volunteers, he enlisted in the Sixth Connecticut Volunteer Infantry and served during the Civil war for about three years, at the end of that period receiving his honorable discharge. At the close of his military service Mr. Eichter returned to Connecticut and resumed working at his trade, which he later had to abandon owing to failing eyesight. He then decided to try life on a farm and in the late 60"s went to Blackhawk county, Iowa, and bought forty acres of land which he operated successfully for four or five years. In 1873 he came to Nebraska and took a homestead of eighty acres in Polk county and pre-empted another eighty acres in York county, later coming to Lincoln and buying the latter place out. His first abode was a dugout with dirt floor and roof, which was supplemented by a sod house and at the same time he put up a dugout barn. He broke the ground and planted crops, put out trees and an orchard but the latter died. His general farming was a pronounced success and all went well iintil this part of the state was invaded by a cloud of grasshoppers which destroyed all his crops, giving him a serious setback. LTJtimately he got the farm into shape again and increased his improvements as circumstances permitted, and continued to operate his holding up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1887 when he was sixty-eight years old. His wife survived until 1901, when she passed away in her eighty-fourth year. They were the parents of four children: Edward, who died in Connecticut; Sophia, who died in 1880; Amelia, widow of John Graff, of Greeley county, Nebraska, and Frederick. The parents were member.< of the Lutheran church and active in its good works.

Frederick Richter was educated in the common schools of Iowa and Nebraska, the school being built of sod with a dirt floor and with brush and sod for roof, while the school season did not last longer than three months in each year. He remained at home for a time and later worked out on farms in the vicinity at eight dollars a month and in 1876 received ten dollars a month for the same kind of work, but managed to save money and bought eighty acres of land which cost him four dollars an acre. He built a small frame house without plaster and otherwise improved the holding. Emboldened by success he bought another eighty acres for wloich he paid ten dollars per acre and is now the owner of a half section of splendid land with two sets of improvements, the whole being devoted to general farming, to which in latter years he added stock raising. He placed all modern farming accessories on the "holdings and his practical industry and energy enabled him to derive substantial results from the fields, so that he was in a position to retire in 1919. In December of that year he bought a home in Gresham in which he is pleasantly and comfortably situated and is still vigorous and active.

In 1881 Mr. Richter was married to Mary Schroeder, who was born in Germany and a daughter of Herman Schroeder. To this union seven children were born : Herman E., a farmer of Polk county; Charlotte L., the wife of George Graff of Polk county ; Fritz J., who lives in Gresham ; Sophia, the wife of Henry Wolford of Polk county ; George B., who farms the home place ; Gertrude, the wife of William Wolford of Seward county ; and Earl, who assists in the operation of the old farm. The family are members of the Lutheran church, to which they subscribe liberally. Mr. Richter has always given his political support to the republican party and is active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Industry and perseverance, guided by keen intelligence, have been the basis of his succcess.

Herman Wellmann

Herman Wellmann, who owns well improved land in Beaver township, York county, is employing the progressive and enterprising characteristics of the west in his farm work, and he has already gained a gra-tifying amount of prosperity.

Herman Wellmann was born in Hanover, Germany, March 7, 1862, a son of George Fromme and his wife, Louise Wellmann. In the Wellmann family there was no son to carry on the name and so when the daughter Louise was married she retained her surname and Mr. Fromme dropped his own, becoming George Wellmann. The father made three trips to America, finally making his home with his children. His death occurred in York county, and his wife's death occurred in Beaver township. They were aged eighty-two and eighty-one years respectively. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. George Wellmann the following children were born : Minnie, who is the widow of William Pieper of York county; Sophia, the wife of Julius Blume, residing in York county; Henry, who was an early homesteader in York countv but now lives at Waco; Louise, who is still residing in Germany;

The subject of this review, Herman WeUmann, received his education in his native country and at tlie age of eighteen years came to the United States. He had an older brother who was engaged in farming in York county so he removed there and for some time worked out on farms. By thrift and hard work Mr. Wellmann managed to save a substantial amount and he bought eighty acres in section thirtytwo, Beaver township, which he farmed but a few years when he sold it, realizing a fair profit. He then purchased eighty acres of land in section two, Beaver township, and on this farm has since resided. It is one of the finest improved farms in the county and ten thousand dollars would not now cover the cost of the many buildings on the place. The farm has its own Delco Electric lighting system and is up to date in every other way. He now owns five hundred acres.

In early life Mr. Wellmann was united in marriage to Miss Katrina Tieken, a daughter of Gerhard and Katrina Tieken, and ten children have been born to them, namely: Gerhard, who is married and owns one hundred and sixty acres in We.st Blue township which he farms ; Henry, who is likewise married and owns a farm in Seward county; William, who owns a quarter section in Beaver township; Anna, who is the wife of Herman Staehr, who is engaged in farming near Chappell, Deuel county ; Herman, who is residing on this father's farm in Waco township ; Carl, who owns a farm in West Blue township ; Clara, the wife of Carl Apat, who is engaged in farming in Beaver township ; and Louise, Eiehard, and Dorothea, all at home.

Politically Mr. Wellmann follows an independent course, voting for the man rather than the party. He is a consistent member of the German Evangelical Lutheran church in Beaver township and for over a period of eighteen years has been elder in the local church. From the age of eighteen years he has been an active factor in the world's work, earning his own livelihood throughout the entire period. He is a man of upright character and sterling worth and has contributed much to the agricultural development of the county.

Jacob M. Lloyd

In the passing of Jacob Lloyd York county lost another of its pioneer farmers. Mr. Lloyd came to York county in 1876 and it was not long before he was recognized as one of the leading men in the community. For twelve years before his death, which occurred on the 30th of December, 1919, he had made his home in York where he was a highly respected citizen.

Jacob M. Lloyd was born near Springfield, Logan county, Illinois, September 30, 1849, a son of Belfield C. and Elizabeth (Meeker) Lloyd, the former a native of Virginia, while the latter was born in New York state. Their marriage occurred in Illinois where they had come as young people and they later removed to Iowa where they resided until they passed away.

In the acquirement of an education Jacob M. Lloyd attended the country schools of his native county and after putting his textbooks aside engaged in farming. In 1876 Mr. Lloyd and his wife came to Nebraska. He had been married in Iowa in 1869. The trip was made in covered wagons and they underwent many hardships.

Mr. Lldvd ae(|uiie(l a hoiiu'r^tertil and was t'in|il(iy('(l at various kinds of work \intii his first crop was raised. Mrs. Lloyd cooperated with lier husband in every way and a great measure of their later success is attributable to her. She was expert with the needle and assisted the different neighbors with their sewing, thereby giving her husband financial aid. The first year of their residence in Y'ork county was a failure, for in that year the grasshoppers came and the crop was ruined. They were not discouraged, however, and as the result of hard labor and determination succeeded in making their quarter section one of the finest in the county. Mr. Lloyd hauled lumber from Fairmont, a distance of twenty-five miles, and built a frame house. At Fairmont Mr. Lloyd found a ready market for his grain, the sale of which netted him substantial sums. From time to time he purchased more land and at the time of his death was in possession of four hundred acres. Becoming financially independent Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd decided to remove to York in 1907 and leave the management of the farm to their sons. In York they built a nice home at 629 East Ninth street and it was here that Mr. Lloyd's death occurred twelve years later. Mrs. Lloyd is still residing there, an esteemed and respected citizen.

In December, 1869, Mr. Lloyd was united in marriage to Miss Euth Pool, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Levi and Sarah (Dodge) Pool. Her parents had moved to Ohio at an early day where they resided imtil 1874, when they came to Nebraska and settled in Y'ork county. Here they both died. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd si.K children were born: Mamie, the wife of George Devine, who is a retired farmer residing at Beaver City ; Loretta, the wife of C. W. McWhinney who is engaged in the land and real estate business in Loveland, Colorado; Bessie, the wife of Bert Eeed, a farmer residing seven miles northwest of Y'ork; Herman, who is residing in Omaha where he is employed by the Manhattan Oil Company; Ezra, who resides on the old homestead; and Wallace, who is farming in Lockridge township.

Politically Mr. Lloyd was a stanch supporter of the dcnioeratic party and was well versed on the questions and issues of the day. He always took an active part in the affairs of the community and held several township offices. Fraternally he was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen for many years. Mr. Lloyd was in every sense of the word a self-made man and was very well educated for his day. In his passing York county lost one of its most successful pioneer citizens and a feeling of widespread bereavement swept the community.

Harey' S. Lindquist

A successful career has been that of Harry S. Lind(|iiist who now follows farming on section 21, Stewart township, Y^ork county. He has been a resident of the county all his life and is concentrating his efforts and attention upon the development and improvement of a farm which he has been operating since 1911. He was born in York county, and is a son of John and Emma (Anderson) Lindquist, natives of Sweden, where the father was born in 1837 and immigrated to the United States in 1869, and of him further particulars are recorded elsewhere in this work.

ajjplied himself to the hest methods of t-arrying on agricultural operations as demonstrated on his father's place. His father retired from active connection with farm work and spent his last years in f4resham. It was in 1911 that Harry S. Lindquist commenced farming on his own account and took over the management of the holding which his father originally purchased consisting of one hundred and thirty-eight acres of prime land and on this place he is carrying on general farming and stock raising with gratifying success. He also runs corn shellers and a threshing machine. The farm is divided into fields of convenient size by well kept fences, there are substantial buildings on the land and he utilizes the latest improved machinery in carrying on the work of the farm. He harvests good crops and is winning success as the years go by.

On December 2S, 1915, Mr. Lindquist was united in marriage to Gladys McNeal and they are the parents of three children: Hollis W.. Albert H. and Vera E., all living with the parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Lindquist are members of the Methodi.st church and in social circles they occupy a prominent position. Apart from his farming interests Mr. Lindquist is connected with the Farmers Elevator at Thayer and Gresham ; in the Gresham State Bank; the Farmers Union Association; the Farmers Union State Exchange, and the Overland Tire & Rubber Company, his income from all these sources being considerable. He votes an independent ticket and has never sought public office, preferring to devote all his time to his agricultural affairs. He sees larger possibilities in the future and is shaping his movements to cope with opportunity when it offers.