Coesse News (1924)

The Evening Post, Columbia City, Indiana ~ Monday, August 11, 1924

• Frank Brower and family of Columbia City were the Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Leininger.
• Paul Thompson and family of Fort Wayne were the week end guests of David Slater and family.
• William Judd and family attended the Hively-Egolf reunion at Loon Lake Sunday.
• Thomas Hickman and family and their guests, Mrs. Dora Kinsey and Mrs. Clyde Poss, of Washington, D. C., spent Sunday at Tri Lake.
• Miss Llewella Thomas, who has been ill, is much improved.
• The class of nineteen twenty-four of Coesse High School motored to Columbia city Sunday morning and had a class picture taken, an event which had been delayed by the illness of Lelewella Thomas. The class is composed of Llewella Thomas, Edith Beeching, Winona Miller, Helen Harshbarger and Ralph and Stuart Luther.
• Miss Edith Ryan came home Saturday evening to attend the Harshbarger reunion.
• Ballard Woods has been offered the position as janitor of the Arcola schools. He will begin his new duties Monday, August 11th.
• David Slater has been employed as janitor of the Coesse schools.
• The "Coesse Boys" were defeated by the Arcola base ball team Sunday at Arcola by a score of 11 to 5.
• Mr. and Mrs. Ray Sharp and Mr. and Mrs. Herman Sexton of Fort Wayne were the Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Sharp.
• Helen and Keith Harsbarger were home from Fort Wayne for the week end.
• Roy Miller and family attended the Fort Wayne Post Office Employees picnic at Blue Lake Sunday.
• William Steiner and Glenwood Snyder motored to Fort Wayne and Bluffton Sunday afternoon.

Orders for Four More Young Men (1917)

Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana ~ Wednesday, May 16, 1917

On Friday Hon. Phil McNagny and Tom Pontius of this city received orders to report to the adjutant at Ft. Benjamin Harrison as soon as possible for training in the officers' training camp. This order was followed up Saturday morning by orders to four other local young men who have reported or will report as soon as possible at Ft. Harrison. The four young men who received their orders Saturday morning are James D. Adams, Elmer Bump, James Blain, and Donald Livengood.

Elmer Bump has been in the employ of the First National Bank of this city for the past nine years, and is 29 years of age. He is one of the reliable and trustworthy young men of the city and will do his duty wherever he may be placed.

Jimmy Blain is 24 years of age. He attended Purdue University after graduating from the Columbia City high school, and has been deputy surveyor for some time past. He is a son of Ex-Treasurer Melvin Blain, of Etna township, and is one of the wideawake and active young men of this city.

Donald Livengood has been here for a couple of years and has been engaged in the greenhouse business. He is full of vim and energy and has made a lot of friends since coming here from South Bend.

James D. Adams is a son of the publisher of The Post and has been connected with the paper for the past six years. He is 29 years of age, is a graduate of Wabash college, but has never had any military training. In addition to his newspaper work he was president of the Whitley County Telephone company, treasurer of the Columbia Woolen Mill, a trustee of the East Haven Asylum for the insane and was connected with a number of other local enterprises.

Mr. McNagny and Mr. Pontius made arrangement to go to Ft. Benjamin Harrison Saturday morning leaving here at 9 o'clock in the Panhandle, and they were accompanied by Mr. Adams. The three young men hurriedly closed all business matters with which they were connected and it is expected that they will be among the first to report for duty.

Mr. Blain and Mr. Bump decided Saturday morning that they would not leave this city until Saturday afternoon and they will likely arrive at the fort some time Saturday night. Mr. Livengood left Saturday morning for South Bend to spend the day with his mother and he will leave Sunday morning for Ft. Harrison.

The boys are experiencing some trouble in securing uniforms and it is possible that two or three of them will report without them. They were kindly requested to make an attempt to secure a uniform if possible. The government is now short on clothing for their soldiers and it is possible that some of the men will drill in their civilian clothing for a few weeks. Some of the young men have had military training; however, at the end of the three months it is expected that the men who never had military training will develop sufficient ability to be appointed as officers. So far the government has not made any appropriation for pay for the officers' reserve corps and in case it does not the men will be compelled to serve without pay.

Columbia city will be well represented at the officers' reserve school by a fine bunch of young men who have voluntarily offered their services to the government. It is believed that young men between the ages of 21 and 30, to be chosen by conscription will not be called before the officers' school closes in three months. If that is the case the boys on the farm will have the summer work almost off their hands, or at least have it where it can be handled by their father or brothers.

==+==+==+==
Note - also see this post: James Blain and James D. Adams Discharged (1917)

Three Young Men Enlist (1917)

Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917

Prof. Ross Tuttle and Prof Wilkinson, of the Columbia City high school faculty, and Paul Pinkley, pharmacist at the W. H. Carter drug store for a number of years, have offered their services to the government and all of them will be off in a few days for training camps.

Mr. Tuttle, who has had charge of the manual training work in the public schools here, enlisted in the U. S. regular army, as a civil engineer or draftsman, and will be sent to Ft. Thomas, Ky., leaving here Sunday, for Fort Wayne, where he will be sent south Monday. Mr. Pinkley also enlisted in the regular army and he too goes to Ft. Thomas, he and Mr. Tuttle will leave together.

Mr. Wilkinson enters the officers reserve training camp at Ft. Benjamin Harrison and he left Thursday afternoon. His school work has been arranged so that it can be carried on to the end of the year by other instructors. High school students in the manual training work will supervise the work of the grade students until the end of the school year, and Mr. Tuttle outlined the work for the high school students, so that they can complete their courses. All three of the young men mentioned are fine fellows and they will become very valuable men in the government service.

World War I Gold Star Soldiers of Whitley County

The "Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918" (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) included a photograph and brief biography of the Hoosier soldiers who had died while in service during World War I.

There were 21 men from Whitley County who were either killed in action, died of wounds, or died of illness while serving in the "war to end all wars." After posting the pictures and biographies here on Whitley County Kinexxions, I found out that the Whitley County Historical Museum had better pictures of most of the men that had been included in the book. The only one they didn't have a picture of was Roy Jasper Feit.

The pictures below are from the files of the Whitley County Historical Museum in Columbia City, Indiana. The soldier's name is a link that will take you to his biography and obituary, if one was found.

Arthur Babb

Scott Baker

James Brandenburg

William Burch

Floyd Estlick

Wiley Farmer

Joseph G. Fiedler

Ray P. Harrison

Ralph Hicks

Harold Hyre

Marshall Kerns

Earl Koester

Harlow Menzie

Arthur Mosher

Joseph Palmer

Verlin Rogers

Amos Walker

Charles Warnick

Ralph Waugh

Scott Jones Writes Mother From Camp (1917)

Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917

"This is the Life For Me" He Writes, but He is Thinking of Home and the Friends He Left Behind.

Mrs. George F. Jones, who resides near Lorane, gave The Post permission to publish the following letter from her son who is in camp at Ft. Thomas, Kentucky:

Ft. Thomas, Ky. May 6, 1917
Dear Father, Mother, and All:

It is three-thirty o'clock. Our company which is B 13, squad 67, have just taken camp at Ft. Thomas. Say, mother, this is the life for a boy! I will never be sorry that I joined to help Uncle Sam out.

I passed the examination all right. We will be here for an unknown length of time. I do not know where we go next, just now. There were about 300 of us that left Fort Wayne Tuesday evening. We reached Ft. Thomas at 12:30 o'clock. A special train carried us. Tell the folks around there that I would like to hear from them. I like my place fine. I promised to write to many but have not the time to write to all at once.

Every evening we take a "nap" before supper. You should see us going, or rather marching, to supper, carrying our plate before us. As we march through our plates are filled. Oh, this is the life for me!

Say George, you take good care of "Tommy." Keep him to remember me.

I feel just a little sad because I am so far from home. But some one has to fight for "Our Country," and I am willing to do so. Dear Mother don't worry a bit about me, because I am happy and will write every week.

Say, tell "Austin Coyle" that this is the life, and that "Uncle Sam" needs him to defend the "Stars and Stripes." And tell Ernest Palmer this is the place for him, too. Tell all to write as I would like to hear from somebody every day.

Good-bye, Dear Mother and all.
Your loving Son,
Scott E. Jones,
Ft. Thomas, Ky.,
Squadron 67, Co. 13, Section B

Jay Wearstler Likes Soldier Life (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917

The Post is in receipt of a letter from Jay Wearstler, who is a nephew of Henry Tantlinger, of the south side, in which he tells of his experiences since joining the regular army. He also enclosed a picture post card of himself. His face looks as natural as ever, but no one would recognize the straight, soldierly looking young man, who appears armed to the teeth, in full uniform, standing in front of a big flag and with a big rifle standing at his side, as the young man who left here a few weeks ago. He also thinks that the training has been good for him.

Among other things he says, "I would advise all young fellows to join the army, more so the young fellows without a home. I am with the infantry, or what most people call, dough boys. Men from all over the U. S. are joining and they come in some times from one hundred to two hundred at a time. Most of us would like to go over into Mexico and kill all the Mexicans over there. I am sending you one of my pictures, in uniform. It is not a very good one but it is the best the man could do."

Jay used to pass papers for The Post and we are glad to know that he is getting along so well. He is a member of Company K., 16th Infantry, Camp Baker, El Paso, Texas.

Two Etna Boys Join The Navy (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, April 18, 1917

Otto Miller, sixteen year old son of Mr. and Mrs. William Miller of Etna and Ronald Scott, nineteen year old son of Dr. and Mrs. J. W. C. Scott, also of Etna, left Friday evening enlist in the U. S. Navy. Both of the boys have been talking about it for some time and it is probable that they fancied that it would be a little more fun to slip off than to go in the regular way. Friends of Ronald think that he plans to enlist in the aviation corps. He is a splendid mechanic and he would make an ideal man for that branch of the service. Otto Miller is well known in this city, as he used to live here when his father worked at the B. F. McNear harness store. He is large for his age, and would pass for nineteen or twenty. He was in the first year high school, but young Scott has been out of school a couple of years. Both of the boys are particularly nice young men and if they are accepted they will become valuable units in the service.

Earl Oberkeiser Enlists (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, April 18, 1917

Earl Oberkeiser, son of Phillip Oberkeiser of the south side, has enlisted in the new battery. He is ready to go as soon as the call comes.

Hays Linvill Has Enlisted (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, April 11, 1917

Hays Linvill, formerly of this city and a brother of Drs. D. S. and Ben P. Linvill, has enlisted as a private in the new battery that is being formed in Fort Wayne. He decided to take the step without informing his friends of his intentions and his papers were made out and signed Monday. Mr. Linvill was born in this city and spent the greater part of his life here. He located in Fort Wayne two years ago and has since resided there. He is a lawyer and lecturer and stands high among the socialists.

The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette had the following to say about the enlistment: "Hays Linvill, a lawyer and lecturer on the theories of socialism responded to the call of his country yesterday and enlisted as a private in the new battery in formation here. Few men are better known in Fort Wayne than Linvill, and his action yesterday was a surprise to his friends, to none of whom had he declared his intention. Linvill's home is at Columbia City, but for years he has been spending most of his time here."

Lieutenant Mertz Popular (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, April 18, 1917

Lieutenant Luther H. Mertz, formerly of this city, is in Battery D, of Fort Wayne, and he is one of the most popular men with the battery. He distinguished himself on border duty, and he has become such a favorite with his men that there is strong probability of his being promoted at the first opportunity. Mr. Mertz is a German, speaking with a pronounced German accent, but he long ago expressed his belief that the European war would go on until the Kaiser and the war element is disposed of in Germany. Mr. Mertz appreciates the fact that his ancestors came to America to get away from the oppression of the German government and to evade the forced military regulations, and he is willing to fight for this country to preserve the liberties which we possess.

Civil War Veterans Luncheon (1926)

Civil War Vets Guests of Local Rotarians

Columbia City Post – Wednesday June 2, 1926

The Columbia City Rotary Club entertained thirty veterans of the civil war as their guests at their luncheon Monday noon, which was Memorial Day and a fitting program was carried out. The meeting was one of the finest ever held by the local club and the veterans who were guests likewise enjoyed the occasion very thoroughly. They stated that it was the second time that the G. A. R. of this county had been entertained at such a function, the first time being a similar dinner given by the Rotary Club several years ago.

Dr. D. S. Linvill, president of the club, appointed Milton Lorber as special chairman of the committee on arrangements and not the slightest detail was overlooked. Cars were provided by the Rotarians to ride in the Memorial Day parade and to convey the veterans to and from their respective homes over the county. The invitation was general to the soldiers, with the request that any who had not received a special invitation were to notify Mr. Lorger and he would see that a car conveyed that veteran from his home to the dinner and back home again. Out of the list of 37 names in the county, thirty were present at the dinner.

The American Legion Quartette composed of Shelley B. Stemen, Howard Cargyle, Clarence Feist and Dr. Paul Wilcox lead the singing of a number of popular pieces and the dinner was served by the M. E. ladies. Chicken, noodles, mashed potatoes, and all the good things that go with them were served and immensely enjoyed. Good fellowship prevailed and the soldiers had no room for doubt of the genuineness of the hospitality.

Talks were made by Dr. Ben Pence, head of the American Legion, Dr. Edmund C. Lindsay, who was a chaplain overseas, and by Veterans Caleb Anderson, W. E. Heagy, W. H. Worden, S. T. Chapman, T. R. Davis, W. S. Smith, I. N. Keller, Wes Allen and others. The principal address was given by Rotarian B. J. Bloom.

Many of the veterans were exceedingly strong and well, while some were feeble and had to be assisted up and down the stairs. Three were totally blind and had to be led.

The veterans who were present were:

• Jasper N. Noble, aged 81 years, Co. G., 38th Indiana, address Kimmell, R. 1.
• Andrew Malone, aged 81, 5th Ind. Battery, Light Artillery, Columbia City.
• Warren W. Martin, aged 80, Co. K, 139th Indiana; also Co. G, 142nd Ind., Columbia City.
• Henry H. Worden, aged 79, Co. K, 139th Indiana; also Co. G. 142nd Volunteer Infantry, Coesse.
• O. C. Grayless, 82, Co. C. 88th Indiana Infantry, Columbia City.
• Jules Romey, 80, Co. H, 74th Ohio Infantry, Columbia City.
• Jacob Garber, 80, Company G, 118th Indiana Infantry, Columbia City.
• Jonathan Williams, 81, Co. G, 34th Indiana, Columbia City.
• J. B. Grimes, 88, Company K, 88th Indiana, South Whitley.
• W. S. Smith, 77, Company D, 129th Indiana, Larwill.
• John T. Heffelfinger, 83, Company K, 139th Indiana, Churubusco.
• Sanford T. Chapman, 82, Company E, 17th Indiana, South Whitley.
• I. N. Keller, 82, Company H, 129th Indiana, Columbia City.
• Wesley W. Allen, 81, Company B, 74th Indiana, Columbia City.
• Milton Bayman, 82, Co. I, 156th Indiana, South Whitley.
• W. E. Heagy, 78, Company H, 35th Indiana, South Whitley.
• W. M. Yerger, 78, Co. F. 184th Ohio, South Whitley.
• Alfred Carper, 85, Co. A, 13th Indiana, South Whitley.
• N. W. Beavers, 79, Co. A, 30th Indiana, Churubusco.
• Alfred Hilbert, 81, Co. D, 9th Ohio.
• Fred Kepford, 87, Co. D. 142nd Indiana, South Whitley.
• J. W. Smith, 79, Co. C. 44th Indiana, Churubusco.
• Jerry Eisaman, 82, Co. I. 11th Pennsylvania, Columbia City.
• Caleb Anderson, 83, Co. I. 163rd Ohio, Larwill.
• Harry Watters, 80, Co. B, 44th Indiana, Columbia City.
• Levi Garrison, 80, Co. K, 139th Indiana, 1235 Masterson Ave., Ft. Wayne.
• Edward Geiger, 79, Co. K, 124th Indiana, Churubusco.
• Thomas R. Davis, 82, Co. F, 88th Indiana, Kimmell, R. 1.
• Timothy Robbins, 85, Co. E, 12th Indiana; also Lieutenant in Company C. 4th Indiana Cavalry, Columbia City.
• Samuel Secrist, 152nd Indiana Infantry, Columbia City.

Dr. I. E. Lawrence, of this city, who is one of the best known veterans of the civil war in the county, was unable to be present on account of illness, and John Fullerton, of the south side, was also unable to be present, so dinners were sent to them. The average age of those who attended the dinner was slightly more than eighty-one years.

Township Trustees (1859)

Columbia City News ~ Thursday April 14, 1859

At the recent election for Township officers, the following gentlemen were selected Trustees.

• Cleveland Tp., John Sickafoose.
• Richland, Robert A. Jellison.
• Troy, Robert J. Elliott.
• Washington, William E. Merriman.
• Columbia, John North, Sen.
• Thorncreek, Timothy Brown.
• Jefferson, David A. Quick.
• Union, Isaac N. Briggs.
• Smith, Jacob Nickey.

The following Justices of the Peace have been elected.

• Cleveland Tp., Henry Funk.
• Thorncreek, Solomon Summers.
• Thorncreek, William Roly.
• Jefferson, Chancey Hadley.

John Edginton was elected Constable for Columbia Tp., on the first Monday, and has qualified. From what we know of Mr. Edgington, he will make a good officer. Our old friend Nathan Head retires, - he made an excellent officer.

Did You Eat This Much Bread, Pie, or Cake? (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, January 3, 1917

Mrs. William Ramsey, of Thorncreek township, kept accurate record of the bread, pie and cake eaten at her home during the past year, and the figures are very interesting. The family consists of seven members, several of whom are children or "little folks." They consumed 797 loaves of bread; 488 pies and 22 cakes, besides cookies and fried cakes. Mrs. Ramsey says that she feels that plenty of good wholesome food is much better than sickness and paying doctor bills. Some of the bread and pies were eaten by visitors at the Ramsey home, but even so, the record is one which it is doubtful if any other family in the county can equal.

Raymond Kessler's Chevrolet Coupe Upset (1924)

Columbia City Evening Post ~ Tuesday, July 29, 1924

Raymond Kessler, of this city, was driving his Chevrolet coupe near Mendon, Mich., Sunday night and struck some fresh gravel just over the top of a hill. His car swerved and when Raymond went to turn back in the road upset. The top was broken and the body damaged somewhat. The young man drove the car back to the Charles Thompson garage in this city for repairs Monday. No one was hurt in the accident.

Raymond has just finished a summer school at Berrien Springs. He was taking a young lady home from Battle Creek to Mendon when the upset happened.

Local News (1924)

Columbia City Evening Post ~ Tuesday, July 29, 1924

Receives Policy. Roscoe Brumbaugh, secretary of the Modern Woodman lodge, has received a check for $1,000 for Mrs. George Dimmick, on the insurance held by Mr. Dimmick, who died recently.

Clarence Eisaman, who was operated on for hernia and tumor at his home several days ago, is able to sit up a short time.

Bernice Woods, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Woods, east of town, who submitted to an operation for appendicitis at the Lutheran hospital, several days ago, is recovering and was brought home Tuesday in the J. A. DeMoney ambulance.

Funeral services for Harry Kirchener, who was killed Sunday when his automobile plunged over an embankment west of town, will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home, 2223 Zollinger avenue, Fort Wayne. Burial will be in Lindenwood cemetery.

Roy Metzger, of Thorncreek township, reports that he delivered a fine Jersey bull to Jay Fisher of Milford, Ind., to head Mr. Fisher's herd. The animal was delivered last Saturday. Mr. Fisher is a breeder of Jersey cattle and is having good success.

Joseph Creager, of Washington Center, is in the Lutheran hospital at Fort Wayne, where he is being built up so that he can submit to an operation soon for kidney and bladder trouble.

The Medical Corps met Monday evening for their regular drill. The members talked over preparations for camping at Camp Knox the last two weeks in August.

Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Krider and Mr. and Mrs. Will Krider, of Smith township, left Tuesday for Tipton, to attend the funeral of Dr. Allen S. Nickey, Wednesday.

Ralph Helfrich will resume his position at the postoffice Wednesday after a five day vacation.

Charles Aker, who is at the Lutheran hospital, is considerably improved and is able to be out a short time each day.

Marion Mayberry has resumed his position at the Rhoton Five and Ten Cent store, after spending a vacation at Coldwater and Marshall and other points in Michigan.

The paving on Chicago street is progressing nicely. About a couple of blocks, or more, of concrete are in and it will not be long until this is all completed. The contractors commenced laying concrete at Main street and are moving toward the east end.

Mrs. Fred Clark, who recently broke her right arm just below the shoulder and dislocated her right shoulder, is getting along very well. She was assisting in scrubbing the basement of the Baptist church and the water on the cement floor caused her to take a fearful fall, with the disastrous results described above.

Whitley County (1859)

Columbia City News, Whitley County, Indiana ~ Thursday May 5, 1859

As many of our distant readers are unacquainted with the flourishing and beautiful little County of Whitley; we propose to give a few facts in regard to its Geographical position &c.

Whitley County was organized in the year 1838, contains 324 square miles, is bounded on the north by Noble County, on the east by Allen, on the south by Huntington and on the west by Kosciusko, and lies north of 41 degrees North Latitude.

In 1850 the County contained 913 dwellings, 941 families, 5190 inhabitants, 522 farms and 8 productive establishments.

Columbia City the County seat is situated on section 11 T. 31 R. 9 east, being nearly a mile N. E. of the Geographical center of the County.

Whitley County has 9 township, Cleveland Tp., on the S. W.; Richland west; Troy in the N. W.; Thorncreek in the north, Smith in the S. E., Washington in the South and Columbia in the center of the County.

The following Post Offices have been established in Whitley County.

• Columbia City, Samuel Miner Esq., Post Master
• Churubusco P. O. at Churubusco, in the S. E. part of the County (Smith Tp.) W. B. Walker P. M.
• Coesse P. O. (at Coesse) five miles east of Columbia City on the P. Ft. W. & C. R. Road, Joseph Root P. M.
• Colamer P. O. (at Millersburg) 12 miles S. W. of Columbia City.
• Fuller's Corners P. O., 6 miles N. E. of Columbia City, H. F. Crabill P. M.
• Laud P. O. 10 miles nearly S. E. of Columbia City, Thomas Neal, P. M.
• Saturn P. O. 12 ½ miles S. E. of Columbia City, James T. Jeffries P. M.
• South Cleveland P. O., 11 miles nearly S. W. of Columbia City, James H. Lee P. M.
• South Whitley P. O. (at Springfield) 10 miles S. W. of Columbia City, O. Carper P. M.
• Summit P. O. (at Huntsville) 9 miles west of Columbia City on the Railroad, H. McLallen P. M.
• Washington Center P. O., 10 miles south of Columbia City, Martin Bechtel P. M.

Celebrated Their Golden Wedding (Young - 1924)

The Evening Post, Columbia City, Indiana ~ Wednesday, June 4, 1924

Mr. and Mrs. David Young had a wonderful celebration at their home on East Van Buren street, all day Wednesday, in celebration of their fiftieth wedding anniversary. It was a half century ago that they took the marriage vows spoken by the Rev. A. J. Douglas, deceased, and on this Golden anniversary day, their children and other relatives and friends gathered to join in the happy affair.

June 4th, fifty years ago, was a beautiful day, even nicer than today has been. Mr. and Mrs. Young were then living in Washington township. They rode to town in a big wagon, behind a team of horses and after the matrimonial knot had been tied, they drove back to the country, where Mr. Young spent the day plowing corn and Mrs. Young hoed in the garden, for they were both willing and hard workers.

The celebration today brought home all the children: George Young and wife, of Wayne, Mich., and their three children, Robert, Louise and Janice, and Eugene Young and family, of this city, and Mrs. Esther Wittich, of Detroit. Mrs. Wittich was accompanied by her son, Jack Wittich, and his wife, and their four year old son, Jack Wittich, Jr., who comprises the fourth generation. Two of Mr. Young's sisters, Mrs. Sarah Stiver, and her two daughters, Mrs. Minerva Bollinger and Mrs. Chleo Olinger, of North Manchester, and Mrs. J. D. Coverstone, of Churubusco, were there, as was Rev. Coverstone. Mrs. Mat Bell, of Kokomo, another sister, was not able to be present.

Mrs. Young sister, Mrs. Katie Wagner, and son, Russell Wagner, and wife, all of Fort Wayne, were there, while Mrs. Ellen Smith, of Laud, was not able to be present. Eugene Chavey and wife were present, Mr. Chavey being a half brother. Among others present were Mr. and Mrs. Simon Marsh, of Akron, O., the former being a brother-in-law of Mr. Young, Edward Zahrndt, of Detroit, and Ralph Olinger, of North Manchester.

There was a wonderful wedding cake with fifty candles on it, together with a little bride and groom. During the dinner, Lester Kellogg played a number of beautiful violin selections. Mr. Chavey was the spokesman in the presentation of a beautiful gold watch to Mr. Young, which was a gift from his children. The children presented their mother with a gold wedding ring, carved with orange blossom, and the bride and groom of fifty years were presented with a number of $5 gold pieces.

Flowers were brought from Detroit and they were arranged with such artistry that it would be difficult to describe their beauty. Everything seemed to work out to make the day enjoyable and it so happened that this was one of the few days this spring when tables could be spread outside, as they were at this celebration. Both Mr. and Mrs. Young are enjoying the very best of health. Mr. Young was 70 last September 24th, while Mrs. Young was 74 on January 14th. This has proven one of the very happiest days of their life and their many friends join in wishing them many more wedding anniversaries.

List of Letters (1859)

Columbia City News ~ Thursday April 7, 1859

List of Letters. The following is a list of Letters remaining in the Post Office at Columbia City Whitley County Indiana, on the first day of April, 1859.

• Apple, David
• Briggs, Sewell
• Bennett, James
• Baber, John, Foreign
• Civets, Sepher
• Clinck, M. C.
• Carden, W. J.
• Chingholews, Jackson
• Clark Cotton & Co.
• Davis, John
• Fairfield, R. R.
• Fields, John
• Groves, Margret Mrs.
• Garver, D. M.
• Hornung, Christiane
• Hornung, George, 2
• Hoffman, Daniel
• Smith, Jacob F.
• Seers, James
• Spitter, Jacob
• Stearns, J. G.
• Jones, Henry, 2
• Kingseed, Peter
• Kouty, Alphrod
• Koplin, Wm.
• Melenbarg, Susan Miss
• Master, Jonathan O &.
• Talmage Smith
• Musselmans, Isaac
• Newcomer, John
• Overdier, John
• Oinger, David
• Onxber, James
• Puke, Isaac, care Mr. L. Jones
• Paul, D. W.
• Richard, George
• Reacker, John
• Shook, Landy
• Taylor, Lib. M.
• Vansickle, Amos
• Welty, John W.
• Williams, Raymond

N.B. Please call for advertised Letters as above and oblige yours truly, Samuel Miner. P.M.
Dated April 1st, 1859

Mrs. Geo. Parkison Pleasantly Surprised (1905)

Columbia City Commercial Mail ~ Friday, December 1, 1905

Mrs. George Parkison, of north Chauncey street, was pleasantly surprised by about thirty-five of her lady friends Tuesday evening. The ladies all came masked and pleasantly surprised Mrs. Parkison although she also surprised them by going out to meet them. Mrs. Parkison was going down into the cellar with a lantern and saw them approaching.

After the ladies were all admitted into the house the masks were removed and the evening spent in a pleasant way pulling taffy, popping corn, singing songs and having a good social time. At a late hour the husbands arrived and accompanied their wives home. Both the hostess and guests enjoyed the pleasures of the evening.

Troy Pupils and Teachers Reunion (1924)

The Evening Post, Columbia city, Indiana ~ Monday, August 11, 1924

The home gathering of pupils and teachers of Dist. No. 7, of Troy township, occurred Sunday and more than a hundred people were present at this assembly which is to be recorded as the first annual meeting of those who formerly lived in the old Belch and Snodgrass neighborhood of Troy township. There is a grove near the school, which has been abandoned for a number of years, and this grove proved a convenient spot for the home gathering, as it was called.

Mrs. Monroe Trumbull, who taught in the school fifty years ago, was present and she gave a little talk, as did Mr. L. D. Pentecost, who was one of her pupils. He also sang an Irish song that he sang in the school at a "speaking day" program, in the long, long ago. George Belch, who lives north of Pierceton, gave a little talk in which he said that there were only three persons including himself, at the reunion, who were in school when he was. The people present from the greatest distance were Clifford Belch and wife of New Albany, but there were others present from points all over the state. A grand dinner was served at the noon hour, and brought forth more food than the assembled guests could eat.

At the business session, L. D. Pentecost, of Elwood, was chosen president and Mrs. Kitty Fawley, of Pierceton, secretary treasurer. It was also voted to meet again next year at the same place and the date was set for July 12th, 1925. Committees on program and arrangements were also appointed.

Goodrich Family Reunion (1920)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, June 16, 1920

Sunday the Goodrich families celebrated their eleventh annual reunion at Troy Cedar lake, with about one hundred and fifty present consisting of friends and relatives. From all the nearby towns and country they gathered on this joyous occasion and Mrs. Henry Winebrenner came all the way from Providence, West Virginia, to greet her home folks. The dinner which was served on the banks of the lake, consisted of such an abundance of feed of indefinite variety that one wondered where it all came from and how it could all be disposed of, however, this was a simple feat, when once the guests were seated.

Shortly after dinner, the president, John Kenner, called the meeting to order and "Nearer My God to Thee" was sung by the entire assemblage followed by a prayer by Rev. Young of the Troy M. E. church. Recitations by the following named was the next in order; Winona Williams, Mildred Foster, Orton Goodrich, Luella Wingard, Ronald Younce and Dewitt Foster. Two entertaining addresses were delivered by Rev. Young and Mrs. Silas Goodrich, after which all joined in singing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." The new officers elected during the business session were: Amon Beard, president; Frank Goodrich, vice-president; and Mrs. Grace Snodgrass, secretary and treasurer.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in a social time and the meeting for the next year was voted to be held at the same place and same time, on the 2nd Sunday in June.

Arthur Babb (1895-1918)

BABB, ARTHUR--PRIVATE

Son of Alfred F. (deceased) and Mary L. Babb; born June 6, 1895, Warsaw, Kosciusko County, Ind. Moved to Whitley County in 1900. Carpenter. Entered service August 1, 1918, Columbia City, Ind. Sent to Valparaiso University, Ind.; assigned to Company B, Training Detachment. Transferred to Carnegie Institute of Technology, Pittsburgh, Penn. Died of pneumonia October 13, 1918, McGee Hospital, Pittsburgh, Penn. Buried, Columbia City, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 717. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, October 16, 1918

Sunday night at 7:17 a message was received by Miss Ruth Orner of this city from Miss Nellie Babb, at Pittsburg, containing the sad intelligence that another Whitley county soldier had died of pneumonia. The telegram read as follows: Miss Ruth Orner. Columbia City, Ind. “Arthur is dead. Nellie.”

The telegram contained no other information, but it is presumed that death was due to pneumonia which followed Spanish influenza. Friday morning, Mrs. Babb, mother of the young man, received a telegram announcing that he was very sick. She wired back for information as to his condition and whether or not she could see him if she went to camp. The reply was that his condition was critical and that she should come at once. She and her daughter, Miss Nellie Babb, left here Saturday morning at five o’clock. Whether they arrived before the son and brother passed away is not known.

Arthur Babb was a son of Mary L. Babb of this city. He was born June 6th, 1895, at Warsaw, and was 23 years, 4 months and 7 days old at his death. He worked at the carpenter trade here and was sent to Valparaiso August 1st, 1918, to take special training. He remained there just a short time and was then sent to Pittsburg, where he remained until the time of his death. His father preceded him in death several years ago and he is survived by his mother, Mary L. Babb, and his sister, Nellie. News of his untimely death came as a great shock to his friends and associates in this city and county.

Scott Baker (1882-1917)

BAKER, SCOTT--CAPTAIN

Son of Loman Nealy (deceased) and Sarah Baker; born December 1, 1882, Columbia City, Ind. Graduated from West Point Military Academy in 1903. Assigned to Field Artillery, Regular Army. Promoted to 1st Lieutenant in January, 1907. Promoted to Captain, Field Artillery, October 9, 1913. Served four years in the Philippine Islands. Died of peritonitis June 2, 1917, Presidio, Cal. Buried in National Cemetery, San Francisco, Cal. Survived by widow, Helen Grace Hiser Baker, San Francisco, Cal.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 717. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

No Obituary Found.

James Virgil Brandenburg (1893-1918)

BRANDENBURG, JAMES VIRGIL--PRIVATE

Son of Samuel and Ida Brandenburg; born May 13, 1893, South Whitley, Whitley County, Ind. Elevator manager. Entered service May 24, 1918, Columbia City, Ind. Sent to Camp Taylor, Ky. Transferred to Camp Sherman, Ohio; assigned to 8th Company, 2nd Training Battalion, 158th Depot Brigade; then to school for Cooks and Bakers. Died of pneumonia October 6, 1918, Camp Sherman, Ohio. Buried in South Whitley Cemetery. Survived by widow, Margaret Mallock Brandenburg, South Whitley, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 717. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, October 9, 1918

Private Virgil Brandenburg, of South Whitley, died at Camp Sherman, Chilicothe, Ohio, Sunday, death being due to pneumonia which followed Spanish influenza. He is the second Whitley county man to give up his life because of this disease, Private Ralph Waugh being the first man who died from this cause.

Private Brandenburg wrote his mother last week that he had a bad cold and something like tonsillitis since Sunday, and Tuesday his wife wired to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brandenburg, stating that he had gone to the hospital. During the week several messages were sent by Mrs. Brandenburg relative to her husband’s condition which became more serious each day. Saturday the father received a wire asking him to procure a nurse for the boy and send her to camp. A nurse was procured at Fort Wayne and went to the camp Saturday, but the disease had reached a stage which even the best of care could not combat and the young man’s resistance was overcome and he passed away.

Virgil Brandenburg was born near South Whitley on May 13, 1893, and was 25 years, 4 months and 23 days old at the time of his death. He was very well known at South Whitley, going through the grade schools and the high school there, and while in the high school was prominent in athletic activities, being a member of the basket ball team. He registered under the first draft and was pronounced to be the best man physically examined by the local board up to the time of his examination. He was accepted and sent with the sixth contingent from Whitley county to Camp Taylor, May 25th, 1918, and was transferred from there to Camp Sherman where he has been since June 28th. His wife joined him at Camp Sherman in July and was with him at the time of his death. He was married before he went to camp, to Miss Margaret Mallott, daughter of William S. Mallott who resides on the Kosciusko county line. His wife and parents survive him, as does one sister, Mrs. Ward Combs, of South Whitley.

Virgil Brandenburg was a member of the I.O.O.F Lodge of South Whitley, being noble grand in that order when he left for camp. He was also prominent in Masonic work. He was a manager of the Farmers elevator for several years and was a member of the United Brethren church. He was a young man of fine character, and high and honorable ideals and his untimely death will be deeply deplored by all who knew him.

William E. Burch (1890-1918)

BURCH, WILLIAM ERNEST--PRIVATE

Son of William (deceased) and Melissa Burch (Carrier); born March 9, 1890, Washington Township, Whitley County, Ind. Railroad employe. Entered service May 24, 1918, Columbia City, Ind. Sent to Camp Taylor, Ky.; assigned to 48th Company, 12th Battalion, 159th Depot Brigade. Embarked for overseas August 22, 1918; assigned to Company F, 114th Engineers, 39th Division. Died of pneumonia September 26, 1918, St. Florent Cher, France. Body returned to U.S. in November, 1920, and buried in Eberhard Cemetery, South Whitley, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 717. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, November 10, 1920

Due partly to the efforts of the Whitley County Red Cross Society and partly to relatives, the body of William E. Burch, who died of pneumonia in France while in the U. S. army, will arrive in South Whitley Wednesday or Thursday of this week for burial.

Leonard R. Schrader, chairman of the Whitley County Red Cross Society, sent a message Monday to New York City to the Red Cross there inquiring in regard to what disposition had been made of the remains of the deceased, and received an answer Tuesday, dated Nov. 8th, that in response to a telegram from Mrs. Malissa Carrier, of Kendallville, the body had been sent to South Whitley for burial and should reach there within two days.

The young soldier was a son of the late William E. Burch and Mrs. Malissa Carrier, of Kendallville. He was 29 years old on March 9, 1918, and his death occurred in France on September 26th, 1918. He was one of those who died when the pneumonia epidemic swept through the army in France.

He is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Wilbur, James, and Don Burch, of South Whitley; Frank Burch and Mrs. Ben Smith, of Kendallville; Mrs. Ira Eubanks, of Huntington; and Mrs. John Hively, of Fort Wayne.

Funeral services will be arranged when the remains of the young soldier reach South Whitley.

[Note: There was a short article in the Columbia City Post of October 30, 1918 stating that his name had appeared on the casualty lists as being one of those who had died of disease.]

Floyd Estlick (1891-1918)

ESTLICK, FLOYD ARDILIS--PRIVATE

Son of Joseph and Christina Estlick; born September 17, 1891, Noble County, Ind. Moved to Whitley County, 1913. Farmer. Entered service June 15, 1918, Columbia City, Ind. Sent to Chamber of Commerce Training School, Indianapolis. Transferred to Hoboken, N.J. Embarked for overseas September 1, 1918; assigned to 2nd Company, 6th Battalion, Tank Corps. Died of pneumonia October 14, 1918, Mehune, France. Buried in Mehune Sur Yevre, France. Survived by widow, Alice Adair Estlick.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 718. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, November 9, 1918

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Estlick, of near Lorane, received the very sad news Wednesday morning that their son, Floyd, had passed away in a hospital in England. The news came as a great shock to the parents and to the young wife of the soldier as they knew nothing of his illness until they received the letter Wednesday.

The young man took sick in France with lung fever and was transferred to England where he was placed in a hospital. On Oct. 3rd he started to write a letter to his parents but his condition became worse and he was unable to finish it, and after his death the letter was found by a chaplain who completed it. The chaplain stated that the young man died on October 15th. The letter was mailed from England Oct. 17th. The writer of the letter stated that he expected the parents to be notified by telegram before the letter arrived but the telegram never came. The letter was sent to Noble county to the young man’s mother in care of an aunt and has not yet arrived in this county at this writing.

The young man is the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Estlick and was born in this county 28 years ago the 1st of September. He spent his entire life here and attended the local high school. About a year ago he was united in marriage to Miss Alice Adair of Noble county, and had been residing on the Whitley-Noble county line until called into the service.

He left this city June 5th for Indianapolis where he received special training at the Chamber of Commerce for three months and was then sent to France where he took sick and death followed at the time stated above. The young soldier is survived by his parents and wife and one brother, Clarence Estlick, who has been in France for some time, and two brothers, Russell and Albert, and one sister, Mary, at home.

The young man was an ambitious young farmer who had many friends in this city and county who are greatly shocked by the sad news of his untimely death.

Halloween Night

The Evening Post, Columbia City, Indiana ~ Saturday, November 1, 1919

Nearly a Thousand Were Masked And Young And Old Enjoyed The Frolic

Big Crowd At The Dance.

The Community Halloween held in this city Friday evening was a big affair and there were simply hundreds and hundreds of people masked. It seemed there were flocks of ghosts or colored folks and injuns and witches and old men and old women and gypsies and clowns and young men and young women and Uncle Sams and Gold Dust Twins and faries and just one Devil, and fat men and hobos and grown up Indians and musical groups and family groups and many in "miscellaneous" lines.

The bad, threatening weather forced a slight change in the program and instead of having the parading and judging done on the street it was done in the City Hall auditorium. The crowd was so dense there and the number of entries was so great that it was difficult to do the judging with any speed, but each group was called and the winner chosen from them.

Many people came in to see the show, so instead of confining it all to the City Hall, a parade was first staged around the public square. The band lead the procession through the street and back to the city hall. The various groups were assembled together as well as could be for the parade and it was quite a spectable to see them all.

It is estimated that five hundred masked individual were in the city hall, and nearly that number remaining out on the street. The masked individual had a big advantage in that he knew who you were while you were helplessly handicapped in knowing to whom you were talking. There were folks who "cut up" Friday evening who have always been as meek as Moses and their very antics mislead their best friends. Some did not even mask, representing some type of citizen, but there was no end of fantastic costumes. Wonderful originality was shown in many of the make-ups and there is no question but that the Community Halloween is a howling success. It will be bigger than ever next year.

The Prize Winners. The prizes were divided into two general classes, those under fourteen years and those over fourteen years.

The winners under fourteen who received $1 each were:
Ghost, Milrie Leaman.
Clown, Stephen Clark.
Indian, Michael Walker.
Gypsy, Catherine Stemen.
Negro, Robert Anderson.
Fairy, Bernice Quinn.
Uncle Sam, Stemen Foust.
Charlie Chaplin, Charles Mannen.
Santa Claus, Samuel Stump.
Gold Dust Twins, Pauline Magley and Louise Johnson. Prize 50¢ each.
Colonial Group, Frances Clark and Florence Waterfall. Prize 50¢ each.

Over Fourteen. One $1 cash prize.
Devil, Adelaid Trout.
Ghost, Mary Francis Raber.
Clown, William Oberkeiser.
Fat Man, Catherine Eyanson.
Gypsy, Edith Smith.
Witch, Dorothy Biggs.
Hobo, Mrs. William H. Crowell.
Negro, Nellie Souder.
Family group, Vern Diffendarfer and family (consisting of Mrs. Diffendarfer and son Carter and baby, Vern, Jr., Mrs. Schuyler Luckenbill, Miss Ruth Boyd, Mrs. Will Oberkeiser and Mrs. Ralph Grant). Prize $2.00
Musical group, Lois Heller and Walburga Eyanson. Prize $2.00

The Side Features.

The side features included the Hula Hula Dancer, the Chamber of Horrors, two Fortune Tellers and the refreshment boot. These were located about the City Hall. Bob McNagny was the caller for the Hula-Hula dancer and the crowds flocked in. A couple of "native Hawaiians" with masks over their faces, but with their hair hanging down their backs, were the "decoys" who stood beside Mr. Mac as he challenged all to enter and see the famous dancers in their native costumes. A capacity house was required before the famous dancers would come out, but no trouble was experienced in getting such a house. A victrola was started and out came a mammoth, not a Hula dancer. It was Edgar Lorber, dressed in the true Hawaiian garb and as the "uke" music rolled from the music box, Edgar danced like a fairy from the islands, while the crowd shrieked and applauded. It was indeed great.

The fortune tellers were at the northwest corner and they disclosed the future to many a young man and young woman. This work was done by the Misses Hilda Grund and Hildreth Sharp. Louis Daniel called the crowd that way.

The Chamber of Horrors was in the Council Chamber at the foot of the stairs leading from the main room. Milton Lorber stood at the bottom of the stairs, being the ballyhoo for this and few there were who had the strength of character to control their imagination sufficiently to return home without visiting this chamber of mysteries. Here Miss Margaret Baker was the snake charmer, a wax figure was reposing within a casket, with a piece of mosquito bar over it. Beatrice Binder was the hypnotized lady of mystery and Thelma Daniel was the bearded lady. Elizabeth Clugston and Jean Trembley were the Siamese Twins.

The entire arrangements were in the hands of the Children's Auxiliary of the Civic League, and Miss Frances McLallen was the chairman of the committee which had the affair in charge. It was a big undertaking, but admirably handled. A committee of ladies from the league served sandwiches and light refreshments and all of the proceeds from the side shows, etc., went to defray expenses and provide prize money.

Mayor John W. Baker was King Halloween and his train was carried by two pages, Jimmy Northam and Johnny Trembley. He lead the parade, just behind the band and upon the return to City Hall he mounted the platform with the band and made the announcements from there. At the close, after the prize winners had been chosen by the judges, Phil McNagny, Tom Pontius and James Adams, the winners were called to the platform and received the cash awards.

The Dance.

The Community dance at the Commercial Club was a fine affair. Perhaps seventy-five couples were present, many of them wearing fantastic make-ups, but dropping off their masks. The music was furnished by local musicians. Miss Farnan, of Fort Wayne, who is conducting a dancing class here, arranged for the Friday evening dance.

Goblins Will Get You If You Don't Watch Out

The Evening Post, Columbia City, Indiana ~ Friday, October 10, 1919

The fair is over, but the carnival spirit still lingers, therefore, arrangements are under way for a Community Halloween Celebration. Several years ago this occasion was hilariously observed and everyone had a riotous time, and at that time it was the intention of the committee to make it an annual affair. But due to the war and the influenza epidemic, it was indefinitely postponed. However, recent messages have been received from the land of the "hob-goblins" saying that they positively refuse to be neither seen nor heard any longer and that they are coming by legions on All Saints Night, Friday, October 31st, to make merry. Therefore a committee to receive this band of goblins, elvies, spirits, and fairies is already getting busy with preparations.

A Court of Reward with King Halloween in all his pomp and glory will be there to receive every masquerader in Whitley county who comes to compete for the king's favor, thereby receiving a cash prize. Twenty-five dollars has been set aside to recompense those who enter the lists and compete for the prizes. Three unbiased judges will counsel with the king, so fairness will rule in this court.

Make your plans now. Throw off the shackles of convention; help make this the biggest, gayest and most gladsome festival of the year. Come! Young folks, old folks, everybody come! Join the line of march lead by the band.

Aside from the grand parade there will be amusements for all - side shows and the Gypsie palmist, fancy dancers and Halloween refreshments, and other attractions which no one can afford to miss. Oh, it's going to be a great night, rain or shine! Remember, masqueraders only may enjoy the privileges which the evening may offer! Get out your grandmother's bonnet, or your fool's cap, or paint on a smile and a mustache, or wear your Charlie Chaplin shoes or your Mary Pickford curls - be what you ain't and fool your pa and ma.

"Backward, look backward.
Oh time in thy flight.
Make me a child again,
Just for to-night."

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Wiley Bliss Farmer (1892-1918)

FARMER, WILEY BLISS--PRIVATE

Son of James Edward and Ada N. Farmer (Welsheimer); born May 11, 1892, Wolfcreek, Ore. Farmer. Entered service August 26, 1918, Corvallis, Ore. Trained at Camp Lewis, Wash.; assigned to Company E, 76th Infantry, 3rd Division. Died of pneumonia December 23, 1918, Camp Lewis, Wash. While the son was in service the mother moved to Churubusco, Whitley County, Ind., where the son was buried.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 718. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

No Obituary Found.

Roy Jasper Feit (1893-1918)

FEIT, ROY JASPER--PRIVATE

Son of John and Emma Feit; born January 19, 1893, Columbia City, Ind. Living on a homestead claim in Washington, when he was called into service, June 25, 1918, Asotin, Wash. Sent to Camp Lewis, Wash.; assigned to Company H, 159th Infantry. Transferred to Company M, 307th Infantry, 77th Division. Overseas in August, 1918. Participated in Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Killed in action October 13, 1918, near Grand Pre, France. Buried on battlefield where he fell.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 718. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, December 25, 1918

Mr. John Feit, of East Ellsworth street, received a message Monday evening about six o’clock, containing the sad intelligence that his son, Private Roy J. Feit, who was in the infantry, had been killed in action in France on October 13th. The telegram read as follows: Deeply regret to inform you that Private Roy J. Feit, infantry, officially reported killed in action on October 13th. Harris, Adjutant General.

Roy Jasper Feit was a son of John and Emmeline Feit and was born January 19th, 1893, and was 25 years, 8 months and 14 days old at the time of his death. He was born in Columbia City, and went through the grade schools, quitting school after he left the eighth grade. About 1910 he joined his brother, Ralph, in Oregon, and was there for several years. He went from there to Camp Lewis, at Tacoma, Wash., in June of this year for training. He was sent overseas about the middle of August. His brother, Ralph, went across in July, he also being in the service. A letter was received by Mrs. Feit, Monday, from Ralph which was written after the armistice was signed, in which he stated that he hoped Roy was as lucky as he was. It is probable that they were in different fronts and for that reason Ralph had not yet heard of his brother’s misfortune.

The message contained no information as to what sector Roy was in when he fell, but it is probable that he was in the Argonne region where the losses of the Americans were heavy during the last few weeks of the fighting.

Roy is survived by his parents, four brothers and two sisters. They are: Charles, of Trenton, N. J.; Frank, of Anderson, Ind.; John of Kansas city; Walter, of Flint, Mich.; his sisters are Ellen Helt, of Battle Creek, Mich., and Laura Ogden, of Akron, Mich.

Roy was well known in this city and had many friends among the younger generation who greatly regret to learn of his death. The news, coming at this time, when the parents had reason to feel assured that both their sons had come safely through the war, makes it especially hard to bear, but in their grief they have the sympathy of all who know them.

Joseph G. Fiedler (1889-1918)

FIEDLER, JOSEPH G.--PRIVATE

Son of Albert and Dorothy Fegler Fiedler; born November 25, 1889, Gar Creek, Allen County, Ind. Living in Columbia City, Ind., when he entered service May 29, 1918. Trained at Camp Taylor, Ky., and Camp Beauregard, La. Overseas in August, 1918; assigned to Company A, 355th Infantry, 89th Division. Fought in the Meuse-Argonne Drive. Died November 8, 1918, from wounds received in action. Survived by widow, Regina Auer Fiedler, Columbia City, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 718. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, January 8, 1919

A message was received Saturday morning at the home of Edward Auer, of Washington township, containing the sad information that Private Joseph G. Fiedler had died on November 8th, of wounds received in action in France. The young man was wounded severely November 5th, and succumbed to his injuries a few days later, dying on November 8th, according to the official message. The first message stating that he had been wounded severely in action was received at the Auer home on December 11th, but it was hoped that he would recover. Mr. Fiedler is at present living in Fort Wayne.

The official message received by Mr. Auer read as follows: “Deeply regret to inform you that Private Joseph G. Fiedler, infantry, wounded severely in action November 5th, died of wounds on November 8th. Further details will follow as soon as they are available. Harris. Adjutant General.”

Joseph G. Fiedler was a son of Albert and Dortha (Felger) Fiedler and was born in Garecreek, Milan township, Allen county, November 25, 1889. At the time of his death, he lacked just seventeen days of being 29 years of age. The young man spent his youth in Allen county and a few years ago went to Montana. A year ago last September he came back from the west and worked on a farm in this county until he was sent to Camp Taylor last June. He did not train very long in this country, but was sent overseas in August. His training period was evidently short overseas, because in only two months after he arrived there the young man was sent into battle. He was wounded severely during the fighting which followed and his death took place as stated.

On April 7, 1918, Private Fiedler married Regina Auer, daughter of Edward Auer, of Washington township, who still survives. She is at present making her home in Fort Wayne. Besides his parents the young man is survived by three sisters, Mrs. John Kerch, of Union township, and Bertha and Mary, at home, and five brothers, Edward, Harmon, Will, Martin and Clarence.

The deceased was well known in Washington township and his many friends regret to hear of his death. While it was known that he was wounded severely, it was hoped that the wounds might not prove fatal. The news was a double shock, coming as it did so many days after the armistice was signed, and when the young man’s relatives could but hope that Private Fiedler had come safely through the war.

Ray P. Harrison (1891-1918)

HARRISON, RAY PARKER--CAPTAIN

Son of Joseph R. and Jennie Stough Harrison (deceased); born July 14, 1891, Columbia City, Ind. Graduated from Wabash College in 1915. Served on Mexican Border in 1916. Enlisted in U.S. Regular Army; promoted to Captain. Overseas in June, 1917, with First Division. Fought at Cantigny, Montdider, and Noyon. Killed in action July 18, 1918, battle of Soisson. Buried where he fell. The American Legion Post, Columbia City, Ind., is named in his honor.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 718. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, November 2, 1918

Capt. Ray Harrison Died a Hero. Was Wounded in Battle and Led Men Into Action After His Wound Was Dressed – Killed by Shell Fire – Father Received Letter From Friend Telling Details of His Death.

Col. Joseph R. Harrison, father of Capt. Ray P. Harrison, who was killed in action in the Soissons region on July 18th, is in receipt of letters from Captain Wm. G. Livesay, a personal friend of Capt. Harrison, which tell of the details of his death. The facts showed that Capt. Harrison died a hero’s death while in action. The statement of Capt. Livesay who was adjutant of the 28th infantry, to which Capt. Harrison belonged, sets out that he was wounded about 3:00 o’clock a.m. on July 18th. He had his wound dressed by a hospital corps man, but instead of returning to the rear went on into action and continued in command of his company until he was killed by shell fire about 6:00 a.m., while leading his company forward. The statement added that he died instantly and without pain.

Mr. Harrison has also received letters from two privates in Ray’s company who are now at Ft. Dodge, Des Moines, Iowa, recovering from wounds received in the same engagement. They are Privates Cartright and Brown and saw Capt. Harrison fall. They stated that he was killed in the Soissons drive. Both remarked that he “sure was nervy and full of courage”.

Captain Rockwold, of the Indiana Guard, now a Y. M. C. A. worker in France, said that he was in the same engagement and that Capt. Harrison was a true leader and a worthy captain. He also wrote that the least he could do was to put a flower on the grave as he knew about where it was.

The statements of the different men follow:
Headquarters 28th Infantry
France, October 1, 1918.
Jos. R. Harrison,
Columbia City, Ind
Dear Sir:

Captain Ray P. Harrison, 28th Infantry was a personal friend of mine during his entire service with the regiment. He was a most excellent officer in every respect and his officers and men had the utmost confidence in him. He was wounded about 3:00 A. M., 18th of July, 1918. After having his wound dressed by a hospital corps man he continued in command of his company until he was killed by shell fire at about 6:00 A. M., while leading his company forward. He died instantly and without pain.
Wm. G. Livesay
Capt. 28th Infantry, Adjt.

Privates Cartright and Brown, who served in the same company with Capt. Ray P. Harrison, and are now at Ft. Dodge, Des Moines, Iowa, hospital recovering from wounds received in same engagement, say that Capt. Harrison was killed in the Soissons drive and that they saw him fall and as they expressed it “We only knew him as our superior officer and he sure was very nervy and full of courage.”

Capt. Rockwold, formerly a captain in the Indiana Guard, now a Y. M. C. A. worker in France, said that he was in the same engagement and that Capt. Harrison was know to him as the big fellow that was at all the guard camps while he was in the service and that he was a true leader and a worthy captain of the finest bunch of fighting men that ever followed a flag. He also said that he expected to do a little traveling a little later in conjunction with is his work and that the least he could do was to put a flower on the grave as he knew about where it was.

Columbia City Post – Saturday, November 16, 1918

Saw Ray Harrison Killed in Action.

Dr. B. Frank Stickler of this city was talking Wednesday with Sergeant Clarence Tanner, of Illinois, brother of Ray Tanner, of Jefferson township, and learned from him that he was a non-commissioned officer in Captain Ray P. Harrison’s company and that he saw him killed in action on the 18th of July in the Soissons drive. The young sergeant was wounded himself in the same action, having his right leg shot off by a shell. The sergeant said that Capt. Harrison was leading his troops in no man’s land and that he had gone over the top and advanced abut a hundred yards when Capt. Harrison was struck by a piece of a shell and went back to the hospital to have the wound dressed. The company had advanced about a half mile further when Ray rejoined them. He had only been with them a few minutes and they were advancing alongside a woods when a shell burst about ten feet in advance of Ray. Ray was struck in the chest by a piece of the shell and fell at once. He had passed away when the men came up to him, having died instantly.

Sergt. Tanner also has an interesting history since he was wounded in the same action. He was taken back to England where his wound was fixed up and he was then brought back to this country. In the county in which he lives he was nominated for clerk and was elected on the democratic ticket, being the only democrat elected in that county. The young man expects to have a deputy do most of the work for him and plans to use the remainder of the money to be educated at Wabash college. He stated that the company in which he was sergeant had been in action several times, he having gone over the top four times.

Ralph Hicks (1889-1919)

HICKS, RALPH M.--PRIVATE

Son of James B. and Amanda Jane Hicks; born October 19, 1889, Huntington County, Ind. Moved to Whitley County in 1892. Served four years in U.S. Navy, 1912-1916. Entered military service March 29, 1918, Columbia City, Ind. Sent to Camp Taylor, Ky.; assigned to Medical Detachment, Base Hospital. Died of pneumonia February 13, 1919, Camp Taylor, Ky. Buried in South Whitley Cemetery, Ind. Survived by widow, Helen Payton Hicks, Louisville, Ky.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 719. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, February 15, 1919

One of the saddest deaths to occur in Whitley county for some time was that of Ralph Hicks, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Hicks, of Cleveland township. A telegram came to the family Friday morning from Camp Taylor, Ky., announcing that Ralph had died Thursday evening at six o’clock, after an illness of two weeks from pneumonia. The father had been at the bedside of his son since a week ago Wednesday, and the mother and sister, Mrs. Eldon Lawber, left Thursday, following a hurried summons, but it is unknown whether they arrived before he passed away. The young man was for four years in the United States navy, and after receiving his discharge, returned to the arm, where he helped his father for two years. But in March, 1918, he enlisted in a hospital unit, and was located at Camp Taylor, Ky., never having been sent to France. On November 16th, of last year, he was united in marriage to Miss Helen Payton, of Louisville, Ky., whom he had met while in camp.

Ralph Hicks was born October 19, 1889, to James and Amanda Hicks, in Huntington county, and died February 13, 1919, at Camp Taylor, Ky., at the age of 9 [sic] years, 3 months and 24 days. At the age of six years, he moved with is parents to Cleveland township, where he grew to manhood and until he was 23 years old, ably assisted his father on the farm. As previously mentioned, in 1912, he joined the navy, and during four years visited many foreign shores enjoying a wide and varied experience. After two years following his career in the navy, he again offered his services to the government, falling in the prime of life, a victim to that most treacherous of diseases, pneumonia. When at home he united with the Centenary U. B. church in Cleveland township, and was a member of the Odd Fellow lodge. Aside from his bride, father and mother, six sisters and one brother, he leaves a great many close relatives and friends, who regret sincerely his loss.

The sisters and brother of the deceased are: Mrs. Lester West, of Huntington county, Mrs. Eldon Lawber and Mrs. Russell Smith, of Whitley county, Alta, Martha, Kathrine and Virgil, at home.

The remains arrived Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock at North Manchester, and from there were brought to the home in Cleveland township. The funeral arrangements will not be completed until the arrival of the rest of the family from Camp Taylor.

Harold Gustave Hyre (1900-1918)

HYRE, HAROLD GUSTAVE--STOREKEEPER, U.S.N.

Son of William M. (deceased) and Mary A. Hyre (Easterline); born June 4, 1900, Whitley County, Ind. Enlisted in U.S. Navy October 22, 1915, Ft. Wayne, Ind. Sent to Great Lakes Naval Training Station, Ill.; assigned to the Nevada, 14th Naval Division. Appointed to duty as storekeeper. Died of pneumonia October 21, 1918, on board the Nevada in Bantry Bay, Ireland. Buried near the family home, Thorncreek Township, Whitley County, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 719. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, October 30, 1918

Mrs. Chester M. Esterline, of the Esterline hotel at Tri Lake, received a message Saturday containing the sad intelligence that their son, seaman Harrold Gustave Hyre, had died at sea from bronchial pneumonia. The telegram read as follows: “Deeply regret to inform you that Seaman Harrold Gustave Hyre, U. S. S. Nevada, died October 24, in foreign waters, from bronchial pneumonia. The body will be returned to this country. Harris. Acting Adjutant.”

The last letter Mrs. Esterline received from her son was about a month ago, and at that time the ship on which he was serving was cruising in Siberian waters some distance out from Vladivostok, and it is thought that it was in this region the young man came to his death.

He is the first Whitley county sailor to die in the service of his country. There are a great many soldiers from Whitley County, but comparatively few sailors.

Harrold Gustave Hyre was the son of William and Mary Hyre, and was born in this county June 4, 1900, being just past eighteen years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Hyre were divorced and later Mrs. Hyre married Chester M. Esterline of the Esterline hotel. The young man’s father still survives, as does the mother, and a brother, Ervin, and sister, Hallie, both at home.

The deceased enlisted in the navy three years ago when he was only a little past fifteen years of age. He was a fine big boy and was easily able to pass the stringent navy examination even at that time. For the past two years he had been in the commissary department and acted as a storekeeper on board the battleship Nevada, where he served from the time of his enlistment. He had made several trips to this county to visit his mother after joining the navy, and was in the best of health the last time he came. News of his death was a great shock to his parents.

The unusual thing about the case is that the remains will be brought to this county for burial. The probability is that the ship was on its way home and the body will be brought to this country for that reason. Mrs. Esterline will be notified when the remains arrive and they will then be forwarded to this county for burial.

The last time he was home he called at this office and his general bearing and modesty were commendable. He had been on many long sea journeys and had seen much of the world and was well informed but his manner and speech were wholly becoming to one of his years and vast experience.

Marshall Kerns (1895-1918)

KERNS, MARSHALL--CORPORAL

Son of Thomas and Katherine Kerns; born April 22, 1895, Columbia Township, Whitley County, Ind. Educated in Wabash College. Chemist, Detroit, Mich. Enlisted in U.S. Regular Army June 2, 1917, Indianapolis, Ind. Sent to Jefferson Barracks, Mo.; assigned to Troop K, 1st Cavalry. Transferred to Ft. Russell, Wyo.; then to Douglas, Ariz. Died of pneumonia February 12, 1918, Ft. Douglas, Ariz. Buried in Columbia City, Ind.

Gold Star Honor Roll: A Record of Indiana Men and Women Who Died in The Service of the United States and The Allied Nations in The World War 1914-1918 (Indianapolis: Indiana Historical Commission, 1921) Page 719. Contributed by Meredith Thompson.

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, February 16, 1918

The remains of Corporal Marshall Kerns, of Troop K, First U. S. Cavalry, who died at Ft. Douglas, Arizona, Tuesday, will be brought here for interment, and the last sad rites to the memory of Whitley county’s first young man to give his life for his country in the war with Germany will be administered here. The message which brought such untold sorrow to his heartbroken parents and friends here asked for instructions as to the disposition of the remains and the S. J. Peabody Lumber Company, where the father is employed, wired back the request that they be forwarded here at once.

The life of Corporal Kerns will linger long in the memory of his friends in this county. He was of a temperament and disposition to win friends readily and during his school days here and while at Wabash College he took a prominent part in athletics and was a young man of unusual strength and vigor. He graduated with the class of 1913 [sic]. During his school days here he played on the basket ball team and on the base ball team, and he was always one of the stand-bys of the team.

He entered Wabash College in the fall of 1912 and soon became prominent among his fellows through his work in school and in athletics. He played both base ball and basket ball on the varsity team there a part of the time. In the middle of his senior year he was offered a fine position with a Detroit drug company, traveling for them, and he decided to accept it. He worked for them from that time until May, 1917, when he enlisted at Indianapolis in the regular army, in the cavalry. He was sent to Ft. Russell, Wyoming, where his regiment remained until just before Christmas, when they were transferred south.

At the time his regiment was transferred, he had a slight sore throat, but did not say anything about it for fear he might be kept at the hospital and not be permitted to go south with the rest of the men. The trip required five days, and by the time he got to Ft. Douglas he was very sick. He was sent to the base hospital suffering from tonsilar abscesses. His throat had to be lanced and he was very seriously ill. He showed some improvement, but from the time he took sick he was only up once for a short time to write a letter to his mother. He lost weight rapidly, his heart became weakened and on top of it all he contracted pneumonia. Even then his great vitality carried him through the fever, but the strength to sustain his life was not there.

Being one of the first boys from this city to enlist after the declaration of war, his friends naturally followed his career in the army. His promotions were gratifying to his friends and he liked army life and seemed to be enjoying himself when he became sick. The news of his gradual decline was conveyed to this friends and relatives from time to time and all joined in the hope that the worst would not come. But all efforts to prolong his life were of no avail, and although he was in one of the oldest and best hospitals in the army camps, the disease had such a hold on him after the five days spent on the train that medical skill could not overcome it.

Regret was everywhere expressed when the announcement of his death came. He is the first man from Whitley county to go, and though he died not upon the battlefield, his sacrifice and example are none the less impressive. He lived a short life and would have been but twenty-three years of age next April 23rd, yet his memory will be hallowed in this county as the first to give his life in the war against Germany.

Besides the mother and father, there is a surviving brother, Ray Kerns, of Mishawaka. In this hour of their great loss the sympathy of everyone goes out to them.