Local News (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, April 11, 1917

B. J. Bloom Appointed Special Judge.
Attorney B. J. Bloom has been appointed as special judge to hear the case of the remonstrators versus the petitioners for the Nix ditch. The appointment came when R. A. Kaufman and others petitioned for a change of judge to hear the case. The court named three men, F. E. Bowser, of Warsaw, F. P. Bothwell, of Ligonier, and B. J. Bloom. Each side was privileged to strike off one name. The remonstrators struck off Bowser and the petitioners struck off Bothwell.

John Shaw Dead in Roswell, N. M.
John Shaw, a former resident of Union township, this county, died at his home in Roswell, N. M., last Friday and was buried there Sunday. The word of his death came to Earl Rummell at Arcola, Mr. Rummell being a nephew. The deceased was a half-brother of Charles Shaw, former trustee of Union township, his father being William Shaw. John Shaw was engaged in the cattle business in the southwest for a number of years and owned a large ranch there. Later he entered in the banking business and was the president of a Roswell bank at the time of his death. He left no children and was about 70 years of age.

Court Notes.
Elisha Swan, of Laud, has made application for the appointment of a guardian for his wife, Eleanore Swan.

Court Notes.
The case of William Watkins, et al, versus T. Fred Hipekin, filed with the County Clerk Otis Plattner Saturday afternoon, came here on a change of venue from Kosciusko county is a suit to foreclose a mechanic's lien.

Mrs. Pence Recovers Sight of Injured Eye.
Mrs. H. F. Keeney returned from Pine Village Friday evening where she had been for the past three weeks assisting in the care of her daughter, Mrs. Pence, who came near losing the sight of one eye which came in contact with a hot curling iron. Mrs. Pence has about recovered from the injury and the sight of the eye is fully restored. On the way home Mrs. Keeney met Virgil Morgan at Logansport, and she says he continues to wear the same old smile he wore while a Daily Post boy. He sent word to this office that he is "on the job every day" and is getting along fine.

Tombstone Tuesday :: Ann Waidalich

Scott-Keister Cemetery, Etna-Troy Township, Whitley County, Indiana

ANN / Wife of / CHRISTIAN D. WAIDALICH / Daughter of / H. & P. MOORE / Died July 5, 1852 / Ag'd 26 Ys. 6 Ms. 10 Ds.

According to the GSWC Cemetery Transcriptions, her husband Christian Waidlich is buried in the Masonic Section of Greenhill Cemetery along with his second wife and son William.

Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana
Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard, Editors
Chicago: F. A. Battey & Co., Publishers, 1882

Christian D. Waidlich was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, December 12, 1824, and is one of twelve children born to John D. and Mary Waidlich, who lived and died in Germany. The father was a very prominent and highly educated man, for many years in the employ of the German government as professor in educational matters, respected and esteemed by all. He died in 1854 or 1855, and his widow died in 1862. Both were devoted members of the Lutheran Church.

Christian D. is the third son of his parents; was educated and learned the cabinet-maker's trade in his native country. His eldest brother, a blacksmith, came to America in 1840, and wrote home such glowing descriptions of the country that Christian and his brother were induced to emigrate in the spring of 1842, being thirty-six days on the ocean. They landed in New York, and from there went to Franklin County, Penn., where Christian engaged in carpentering until 1845, when he decided to go West and located in Columbia City, where he worked at his trade until 1856, when he entered into a partnership in the dry goods and grocery business; he has since his arrival been actively identified with the business interests of the city, and from a penniless boy has raised himself to a position of influence and wealth; at present he is a stock-owner of the Eel River Woolen Mills, of which corporation he is Vice President.

Since the war, Mr. Waidlich has been a Republican, and has filled the office of Town Trustee at different times. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., also the O. F. Encampment. He was married in 1847 to Ann Moore. In the summer of 1852, she passed away, leaving two children - William H. (deceased) and Mary E., now Mrs. Harley. Mr. Waidlich was again married, in 1864, to Mrs. Elizabeth (Myers) Bixby, who is yet living. Both Mr. and Mrs. W. are members of the Lutheran Church.

Local News (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917

• John Raupfer has accepted a position at the Rossman & Wunderlich hardware store.
• Levi E. Plattner, of Cleveland township, father of County Clerk Otis Plattner, is suffering from rheumatism and kidney trouble.
• The Tuttle flouring mills have purchased a Ford truck of the H. M. Miller agency.
• Surprised Their Husbands. Mr. and Mrs. Joe Huff, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bollinger, Mrs. George Leininger, Mrs. Ed Binder and Miss Hilda Grund motored to Kokomo Wednesday morning leaving this city after the Knights Templar had departed. Upon arriving in Kokomo the party joined Mr. Binder, Leininger and Compton and the day was spent in a delightful manner. The ladies went to Kokomo without having informed their husbands of their intentions and they were taken by surprise.
• The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Nix, of Washington township, is suffering with cholera infantum Dr. White is attending the child.
• Mrs. Sarah Hively, formerly of this place, who lives with her son, Albert, at Upland, is visiting friends in the vicinity of Laud.

Tombstone Tuesday :: Cleveland Family

JESSE CLEVELAND ESQ. / Son of / Dea. Palmer / Cleveland, / died / Dec. 11, 1838, / in the 35, y'r. / of his age.

Jesse was, reportedly, the first person to be buried in the Cleveland Cemetery, which is located southeast of South Whitley, Cleveland Township, Whitley County, Indiana. Arriving in 1834, Jesse joined his parents Palmer and Anna Cleveland, and his brother Benjamin and their families who were among the first white settlers to come to what would later be known as Cleveland Township.

I don't know if this is the oldest grave marker in existence here in Whitley County, but it is one of the oldest (and in the best condition) of the old ones that I have come across.

Buried next to Jesse are his parents.

• DEA. PALMER CLEVELAND / died / July 19, 1842, / in the 75, y'r. / of his age.
• ANNA CLEVELAND. / WIFE OF / PALMER CLEVELAND, / DIED / Oct. 1, 1847 / AGED / 70 YEARS. (A portion of Anna's transcription is from a reading done by someone in 1982, when the stone was lying flat on the ground.)

Photos taken January 26, 2002 by Rebeckah R. Wiseman.

Leonard Tagmeyer has made Three Trips Across

Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana ~ February 9, 1918

Leonard Tagmeyer, son of Mrs. Jesse Tagmeyer, of South Whitley, is home at the present time and will be until Monday from the navy. He enlisted about a year ago, before the declaration of war, and he has the distinction of having been back and forth across the Atlantic four times. He declined to make any public statements for the paper, as the men are put on their honor not to talk, but he admitted that ships he was on had been fired upon by submarines but never hit. He says the men get the best of care and he has no patience with the newspaper stories about neglect of the men. He says that U. S. troops are being moved across in immense numbers "pretty fast," as he described it. He is now on shore duty in the naval barracks at Philadelphia.

Susan Mossman Will Filed for Probate (1917)

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

The will of the late Susan M. Mossman, of Union township, was filed for probate late Thursday afternoon, in Clerk Otis E. Plattner's office. The instrument was drawn Nov. 23, 1916, by Attorneys McNagny & McNagny and was witnessed by Charles W. Johnson and Frank L. VanTilbury, both of Union township.

There are six items of the will. The first provides that all just debts shall be paid. The second gives to the daughter, Jesse E. Stoner, with whom the deceased spent her last days, all of her real estate, wherever situated, in fee simple, subject to provisions made for her daughter, Zella Z. Barnes, and subject to other provisions for other children in the family.

The third item deals with the personal property, and the daughter, Jessie E. Stoner, is to receive it all. The fourth item specifies that each of her four children, Orpha D. Naber, James F. Mossmann, Marie R. Oser and Zella Z. Barnes, shall receive $1,250 in money. One-third of it is to be paid in cash in sixty days; one-third in one year and one-third in two years. The deferred payments are not to bear interest, but should they not be paid when due, then they shall bear 8 per cent interest.

The real estate which is left to Jessie E. Stoner is subject to the condition that she permit her daughter, Zella Z. Barnes, and her son Charles Barnes, to have their home in the dwelling house upon said lands as long as Jessie E. Stoner remains the owner of them. The sixth item names Jessie E. Stoner administratrix, and she has filed bond and qualified.

Tombstone Tuesday :: Douglas Family

The Douglas family monument, a good ten feet tall, stands in Masonic Section #3 at Greenhill Cemetery in Columbia City, Indiana. This view is looking towards the north and a little west. Inscriptions are on three sides of the stone.

Alexander Jackson Douglas, more commonly known as A. J., was a prominent preacher and teacher in Whitley County from 1860 and until his death in 1905. The family also lived for a short time in Monroeville, Indiana and Florence, Kentucky as well as Noble County, Indiana during that time period.

A. J. Douglas, had 11 children by his first wife, Mary Jenner, (5 were alive when he died in 1905) and 3 by his second wife, Jennie Cassel, (2 were living when he died in 1905). The first child born to A. J. and Jennie was Lloyd C. Douglas (1877-1951), who would become a well-known writer and author of "The Robe" as well as other novels with a religious theme.

As a minister, A. J. performed many marriage ceremonies during his career. Among those was the 1871 marriage of my 2nd great grandparents, William Brubaker and Malissa Joslin.

Inscription on the south facing side:
MARGARET / WIFE OF / Wm. DOUGLAS / DIED / Aug. 30, 1872: / Aged 69 Years.
REV. A. J. DOUGLAS / BORN MAR. 22, 1827 / DIED MAR. 23, 1905 / AGED 78 Y's. 1D.

Inscription on the side facing west:
IN MEMORY OF / MARY JENNER / WIFE OF A. J. DOUGLAS / DIED / April 21, 1875 / AGED / 43 Y's. 1 Mo., 23 D. / The "In-as-much" her ears have / heard and the "Well-done" hath / crowned her head.

Inscription on the east side:
JULIA M. DOUGLAS / DIED / May 5, 1853. / AGED 3 DAYS.
INFANT / So of an hour / DIED / Aug. 19, 1867
BIRDIE DOUGLAS / DIED / Sep. 2, 1875. / AG'D 5 Mo., 6 D's.

The grave marker for Jennie Douglas and two of her children is in Salem Cemetery, Noble County, Indiana. The stone is located in the first row north of the Salem Church.

JENNIE CASSEL DOUGLAS / 1847 - 1939
MABEL DOUGLAS / 1878-1879
CLYDE E. DOUGLAS / 1883-1909

The obituary notices for these and other members of the Douglas family can be found on my kinexxions website.

Grand and Petit Juries are Drawn (1917)

The Evening Post, Columbia City, Indiana
Wednesday, January 31, 1917

Jury Commissioners David M. Pence of Smith township, and W. S. Nickey, of this city, have drawn the petit and grand jurors who will serve during the February term of the Whitley circuit court. The names were placed in a box, from which they were drawn, some time ago, and the selections thus made by chance. The drawing occurred Monday afternoon, and resulted as follows:

Petit Jury

• A. M. Sroyer, Jefferson Twp.
• Geo. P. Bechtoldt, Columbia Twp.
• Samuel J. Ward, Richland Twp.
• John C. Van Voorst, Troy Twp.
• J. W. Smith, Smith Twp.
• Edward Richards, Columbia Twp.
• Levi J. Keiser, Washington Twp.
• John Windle, Thorncreek Twp.
• Edward Kreig, Cleveland Twp.
• Earl Parrott, Cleveland Twp.
• C. D. Evans, Etna Twp.
• Frank Cole, Union Twp.

Grand Jury

• Tobias Kreider, Cleveland Twp.
• W. S. Howenstine, Jefferson Twp.
• Link L. Norris, Richland Twp.
• Hugo Humbarger, Thorncreek Twp.
• William Auer, Columbia Twp.
• Geo. Winters, Union Twp.

An Immense Yield of Onions (1917)

Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana ~ Saturday, September 22, 1917

Dennis Gallivan and William Hindman, who farms Mr. Gallivan's farm, just west of town, have right close to 10,000 bushels of onions from seventeen acres. They now have more than 7,000 in creates and they have some of the best parts of the field to harvest, so they feel reasonably sure of getting close to the 10,000 mark.

The price, averaging the reds and the whites, will be better than a dollar a bushel, so the profits from the crop will be a mighty handsome sum. Mr. Gallivan also sold over $100 worth of potatoes off of about two acres of land, thus making his profits on "small stuff" very substantial for the year.

Tombstone Tuesday :: Joseph Shoemaker

They (whoever "they" are) say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. So, I hope that Amy Crow over at Amy’s Genealogy, etc. Blog is flattered that I am helping myself to her theme of "Tombstone Tuesday" for a series of blog posts. . . Thanks for the inspiration, Amy!

I have a large "collection" of photos of gravestones from various cemeteries that I've visited and plan to eventually post them at Find A Grave. But until that happens, I thought I'd occasionally post some of them here at Whitley County Kinexxions.

Masonic Section, Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City, Indiana

Joseph Shoemaker / 4 MAR. 1759 / 22 SEPT. 1864 / REV. WAR AND WAR OF 1812




Columbia City Post, Whitley County, Indiana
Wednesday September 28, 1864

Obituary. Near Columbia City, September 22, 1864, Mr. Joseph Shoemaker, in the 106th year of his age.

The deceased was a native of Pennsylvania, but in his early life moved to the State of New York where he lived until about eight years ago, when he came to this city, where he has been a citizen ever since. A good old man, a Christian has fallen at an age more than ordinary among men. Mr. Shoemaker was the oldest man in Whitley county, perhaps the oldest in the State. He retained his mental faculties to a remarkable degree even to his last hours on earth. He voted at all the presidential elections of the Government from its beginnings - From Gen. Washington to Lincoln. Has lived to see most of the nineteen presidents pass away. A good man has gone from our midst.

His funeral was well attended by a large concourse of citizens and friends. The funeral services were performed by the Rev. R. H. Cook, of the Baptist church. Father Shoemaker is gone. Let him sleep in the grave where kind hands have laid him. M.

The Republican, Columbia City, Indiana
Wednesday September 28, 1864

In Memoria. Joseph Shoemaker died in Columbia City, Indiana, September 22nd, 1864, Aged, One Hundred and Five Years, Five Months and Twenty-Eight Days.

Joseph Shoemaker was born in Pennsylvania on the 24th of March, 1759. In the early part of his life he lived in the Wyoming Valley. His father was an officer in the Revolutionary Army under General George Washington. At that time he was not old enough to be in the army, but was employed as Continental Mail carrier. While acting in this capacity he was often shot at by the Tories and Indians, and twice wounded by them. At one time in carrying the mail he was fired upon by a party of Tories who attempted to capture the mail, and received a ball in his hip, which he carried with him to his grave; but being lashed fast to his horse he escaped and carried the mail safe to its destination. George Washington was frequently at his father's house, and dined with the family.

In the War of 1812, he was called to defend our lines at Buffalo and Black Rock. He married and moved to Canandaigua, N.Y., where he spent the greater part of his life, and raised a large family. About seven years since he came to this place, where he has resided until his decease. He has been a professor of Christianity for upwards of seventy years, and died in the full faith of the promises of his Redeemer.

Donald Van Tilbury has Winona Concession (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, May 30, 1917

Donald Van Tilbury, of Coesse, who was engaged with F. M. Smith of Wanatah, Ind. in the haberdashery and cleaning and pressing business at Winona Lake last summer is to engage in the business for himself the present season. The young man has the concession from the officers of the park to engage in that sort of business and it is assured that he will meet with great success in his venture. The firm enjoyed a good business last year and with the reputation they established Don will find plenty to do in his chosen line of work this summer. It is the only thing of the sort in the Park, and is situated in the Administration building. Young Van Tilbury is an industrious young business man and will be remembered as having carried off the honors in the boy's corn contest for several years in this county.

Troy News (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, May 23, 1917
Tuesday's Daily.

• Miss Madeline Wright spent Sunday with Miss Ada Sroufe.
• Mrs. Harry Trimmer entertained on Thursday Mrs. J. W. Adams. Mrs. Frank Raber, Miss Elva Riddle and Mr. and Mrs. John Rittenhouse, of Columbia City.
• Harold Salmon and John Terman were week end guests at the Lyman Cook home.
• Mrs. Kate Grant and Miss Mary Bills visited Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Lester Pletcher.
• Rev. C. Archer, of Modock, arrived Monday to join Mrs. Archer and baby, who have been guests of the J. W. Salmon home for a week.
• Mrs. J. C. Van Voorst and son, Albert, motored to Kimmell, Saturday to spend the day with friends.
• W. L. Adams made a business trip to South Whitley, Friday.
• People living near the New Center school house were shocked at the cruel treatment given a horse that fell while being driven on Saturday. A poor exhausted horse, a young chap and a board made a poor combination. Considerable more feed and much less slat would surely get better results. If we have a humane officer in the county such cases should be reported.
• Mr. and Mrs. Harry Trimmer and baby visited Clarence Trimmer and family near Raber, Sunday.
• Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Sellers entertained Rev. and Mrs. Abbott and Ray Salmon and family, Sunday.
• Morris Wise, who has been visiting his father, Wm. Wise, returned to his home at Elkhart, Saturday.

Cupid Scores Three Times in Succession (1910)

Columbia City Commercial Mail, Friday June 17, 1910

Cupid, who really is the advance agent of his superior, Hymen, scored three times Saturday and Sunday and as a result there are three happy couples united and three new homes established since Saturday.

LUMM-LEMON. Miss Katie A. Lumm, the charming daughter of Mrs. Ida Lumm, and Mr. Thomas E. Lemmon were united in marriage Saturday evening at 8 o’clock by Rev. J. F. Porterfield at the Baptist parsonage. The couple were attended by Mrs. W. E. Magley and Miss Carmon Lemmon sister of the bridegroom. The bride has for sometime been a photographer in the Magley studio and will continue to assist Mr. Magley until after the rush work. The groom is a son of Lafayette Lemmon and wife and is employed by his father. For the present the young people will reside with the groom’s parents in Madison street.

GRACE-LONDT. Sunday afternoon at two in the presence of about thirty-five friends at the home of the bride’s parents John Grace and wife, in Jefferson township, Rev. L. L. Shaffer united in wedlock Miss Rada L. Grace and John Henry Londt, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Londt of Union township. The couple were attended by Miss Maggie Londt, sister of the groom and Mr. Claud Bradshaw, and the home was a bower of flowers. A sumptuous wedding dinner was served and the young people went to housekeeping at once at the groom’s home in Union township.

MALONE-ARCHER. Mr. Everett W. Archer and Miss Rosetta Malone were united in marriage Sunday noon at the home of the groom’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Josiah Archer, northeast of the city, Dr. F. G. Browne officiating. Only immediate relatives and friends were present. After the wedding an elegant dinner was served. The bride is the attractive and accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Malone of Union township. For the present they will reside at the home of the groom’s parents.

Jim Kaler will Re-Build House on His Farm (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, January 31, 1917

James B. Kaler, who lost the residence on his farm in Washington township early Friday morning by fire, has decided to re-build at once. He arrived home Friday evening and immediately commenced drawing plans for the new house. He has considerable timber on his farm, and there is a saw mill near, so that he will have considerable of the lumber sawed from his own timber. The work will be started at once.

Fireman Injured (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, January 31, 1917

A. J. Hake, a fireman on the Pennsylvania, was injured while loading some coal at the coal docks west of this city Friday night. The shaker bar that is used to shake down the ashes broke and hit him in the face and the right upper jaw bone was fractured. Dr. D. S. Linvill the railroad physician was called but as he was out of town Dr. Ben P. Linvill was called in his place. The fracture was reduced by Dr. Linvill at the C. U. tower. Mr. Hake continued his run with the assistance of two of the brakemen.

Clippings from the Churubusco Truth (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 26, 1917

• Geo. McAlexander, of Champaign, arrived last week for a few days visit in the home of John Claxton.
• Hon. Geo. W. Kichler is the proud owner of a new Saxon 6-cylinder runabout, the car arrived Saturday.
• Alf Johnson of the Exchange Bank is taking a week's vacation and will not be on the job before Monday.
• Phil Downey, of the Truth, left for Notre Dame Tuesday, to complete his senior year in that university.
• Mrs. S. F. Ort, Miss Ursula Magers, Oscar Isay and Robert Ort formed an auto party to Kentucky last week.
• Gustave Brumbaugh will hold a public sale of household goods Saturday. His wife will return to Kansas for the winter.
• Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Weaver, son Joe, and Miss Hilda motored to Ligonier and spent the day with relatives last Sunday.
• Frank Fogel has purchased a handsome new 6-cylinder Saxon auto.
• The Churubusco schools are working now under township authority.
• Mrs. L. D. Crabill was the guest of Chicago friends part of last week.
• Mrs. W. F. Spangler is spending the week with relatives at Columbus, O.
• S. F. Ort spent the fore part of the week at Cleveland buying goods for Ort Bros.
• Julius Isay left the latter part of last week for Bloomington to enter Indiana University.

Russell Eisaman Writes From New York (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 26, 1917

Russell Eisaman, who enlisted with Virgil Morgan and Dick Gruesbeck, writes his parents in a letter received by them Friday that he is now located in Watertown, N.Y., with the field artillery. Parts of the letter follow:

"Dear Folks: - -
"I don't know whether you can read this or not because I just got through having an awful game of basket ball. As you can see they have a Y. M. C. A. here but this one is in a tent.

"Believe me we had some trip to get here, and after we got here we were pleased. There are about three thousand mules and horses here. They have to be curried three times a day. We drilled eight hours today (Sept. 18). We won't stay here long as they are using the cannon in practice and when that comes they get ready to go to New Jersey and you know what that means. There are no buildings here, all tents and there lots of them. It is just like it was in Wisconsin with the exception of the soil. All is sand here. There is not a bit of good hard dirt.

"We only had to hike three miles from the station carrying all our clothes and equipment. Our regiment is fully equipped but the one beside us had to use our guns. It sounds queer to hear a cannon roar and then it seems like a minute before the shell explodes away off in the opposite direction. We are sixteen miles from the nearest town and not a building within three miles.

"We got a good tip this morning from one of our tent partners that those who got along alright will leave soon so you may know I don't intend to stay long. We got another 'shot in the arm' just after dinner and then went out and drilled all afternoon. I feel fine and am glad we get only two more of them.

"They have all kinds of sports here: Basket ball, base ball, punching bag and about everything you can think of. Dick and I got in the same tent. Glen Johnson and Ralph Weston are both in our battery.

"This camp is called Pine camp but you don't need to put that on the address. It sure is a beautiful place. There is one general here from Canada who has been in Europe for some time. You don't have any idea how many different camps and soldiers we have seen. Don’t' forget to have everyone write even though I don't get to answer at once. My address is:
Russell E. Eisaman
Battery B. 4th F. A.
Military Branch
Watertown, N.Y.

Heber Allen Describes Y. M. C. A. Work (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 26, 1917

Heber W. Allen, of this city, who enlisted in the army at Fort Wayne, in June, and who is now at Camp Jackson, Columbia, S. C. address 2 M. C., Company 41, has just written friends in this city a general report on the work of the Y. M. C. A. Heber having had experience in the last three months at three of the principal army camps of the U. S. finally being transferred to Camp Jackson to assist in the baking department in the great camp there.

He says: "The Y. M. C. A. needs all the praise you can give it. Everything I heard regarding the good work before enlisting is true and then some. While we were held in Camp Gordon in Georgia, the Y. M. C. A. came to our rescue, offering us free of all charge books, stationery, magazines, newspapers, besides new army Bibles for each soldier to keep. One of the Y. M. C. A. men came several times a day with our mail and was very generous in offering to go and get tobacco, candy, etc., for the private soldiers. At many of these Y. M. C. A. headquarters you can pick up most any study you desire, including French. Also writing, spelling, arithmetic, and typewriting.

"Tonight we have a "Hawaiian band," by ambulance company No. 31, including both vocal and instrumental music. Yesterday a celebrated band came out at 4 o'clock and played for us. Every day there is something good arranged for us. Then at 7:15 each day there is a Bible study for half an hour which is very interesting. My hay fever has not left entirely but is not near as bad as at home. I can sleep at night now."

Boys Are Well Situated at Louisville (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 26, 1917

All the word back from them tells of the good times they are having - it is a jolly bunch from all reports - Other News.

The Whitley county delegation at Camp Taylor, Louisville, Ky., seems to be having a good time, according to all reports and the boys are having the time of their life. Frank Hull, Don Kennedy, Keller Sheeler and Fred Yontz were on hand to greet them Thursday evening and all of the boys from here are in the same barracks. The four fellows named helped the boys fill their ticks with straw.

Don Kennedy has been appointed acting corporal, as has Edgar Lorger. Bud Mygrant was out to the camp the other day, and he knew a number of the boys. The fellows planned to hold a reunion of the Whitley county boys Sunday. Lieut. Tom Pontius is in the same camp but about a mile away.

"Please pass the butter" is the call that the fellows give as they march into the mess halls at meal time. They are not given butter, so the boys have a lot of fun asking each other to pass it. The report is that you can hear the "Please pass the butter" run all the way down the line as the hungry young fellows hustle in and eat the good things which are offered them. The meals are good, according to reports.

Firmer R. Born writes the local conscription board that everything is satisfactory with the Whitley county bunch. His letter follows in part:

"We arrived all O. K. at the camp about 9 o'clock. Hull, Yontz, Sheeler and Kennedy met us at the door of our barracks in which all the C. C. men are located. The men were exceptionally nice and obedient. Not the least bit of trouble. Had plenty of eats out of Denver and out of Indianapolis. The boys were certainly a jolly bunch. We had lots and lots of fun. Lorber, Strouse, White and Harsbarger were the minstrels. Mr. McKnight proved himself a good sport and friend of the boys. We were 47 out of 414 men on the train and I dare say we were the best looking bunch in the lot. The conductor and brakeman told me he liked our bunch of men the best. Today, (Friday), we drill all forenoon. This afternoon, we were examined and vaccinated."

Fred Yontz has been appointed Supply Sergeant in the commissary department, and his is kept busy handing out goods to the new men as they arrive. Frank Hull, who is familiar with the dry goods business, is also in the supply department. The story is told that as the men were being fitted for shirts, they were asked what sized collar they wear. One fellow replied: "I don't know. I never wore a collar." Firmer Born has also been appointed an acting corporal for the present. These men who have been appointed to non-commissioned positions, may be changed at any time, according to the word from the boys.

Bonnell Peabody Home on Furlough (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 26, 1917

Bonnell Peabody, who is in the U. S. aviation service, arrived home Friday evening from Mt. Clemons, Mich., on a forty-eight hours furlough. He has been in training there for several months, and is to return to Mt. Clemens and from there the men in his company will leave at once for Long island, N. Y., where he will probably take further training and perhaps aerial work. He has been acting as mechanic on one of the flying machines at Mt. Clemens. The work requires regularity and thoroughness, but he states that he never felt so well in his life, though he has not gained any weight. Saturday, about fifty members of the family met at the Peabody home on the Wilkeswood farm, holding a sort of a family reunion. Bonnell has to return to Mt. Clemens early Sunday morning.

Val Worden Writes From San Antonio (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, September 22, 1917

Vallorous Worden, son of Henry Worden, of Coesse, who is now in the aviation corps, is planning to take a course of special instruction preparatory to being commissioned in the aerial service. He is located at San Antonio, Texas, and in a recent letter writes as follows:

"We have had a couple old Indiana rains and consequently it is not nearly so dusty here as formerly. I like it better all the time and I can truthfully say that I have never felt better in my life. The days are rather warm but the nights are positively great. I am really desirous of taking my training here although there is a possibility of our being sent to Dayton, Ohio, or some other place."

Movements of Other C. C. Boys in Regular Army (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, September 22, 1917

Four boys from Columbia City were transferred last week from Ft. Thomas, Ky., to the Mountain Artillery which is to be trained and conditioned high in the Adirondack mountains in New York state, and are located there. They are Russell Eisaman, Dick Gruesbeck, Glen Johnson and Ralph Weston.

Virgil Morgan and Ernest Erne have not yet been assigned to any particular branch of the service but they were transferred from Ft. Thomas to Ft. Meyer, Va., only six miles from Washington, D. C. they left Ft. Thomas Saturday noon and arrived at Ft. Meyer the next day just before noon. Clyde Overdeer is there and he has been in training at that place for the past two months. Frank Metzker, of South Whitley, has not yet been transferred from Ft. Thomas, and he is the only Whitley county man still there.

Aden Schannep in Aviation School (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, September 22, 1917

Aden Schannep, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Schannep, of Cleveland township, enlisted last July in the aeroplane corps and is now in the regular army training camp in Texas, according to a letter received by his parents this week.

Mr. Schannep was summoned to report before the local draft board for examination on the first call. He failed to appear and members of his family who had not heard from him since he left home did not know where he was. It was thought that the young man had run away to avoid the draft but instead he volunteered for service in the aviation corps.

In a letter to D. C. Scott, druggist at South Whitley, Schannep states that he has been in camp at San Antonio since July 30. He belongs to the 61st division and gets two lessons a week in aviation. He expects to be sent to France soon.

New Whitley County Resource

The "Index to Old Settlers Necrology 1906-2007" has been added on the Kinexxions website.

The compilation, which includes more than 22,600 names, is from Whitley County Newspapers and from files in the Whitley County Historical Museum. The Old Settlers Necrology lists were generally published annually on Old Settlers Day and included those people who had died in the previous year who were considered "Old Settlers" of Whitley County as defined by the Old Settlers Association: "Anyone who was 30 years of age or older who had lived in Whitley County for 30 years or more."

The lists often included those who lived elsewhere at the time of their death. Some lists included everyone who died while living in Whitley County regardless whether they were "old settlers" or not. In other words, there really wasn't any consistency from one year to the next as to who was or was not included. It depended upon who was compiling the list. In about half of the years the full date of death was given, while in others only the month and year. In several years there was simply a listing of those who had died since the previous Old Settlers Day with no date or month listed.

The individuals involved in this project were Beverly Henley, Cindy Keirn, Dorothy Bordner and Becky Wiseman.

One Grand Time All The Way To Camp (1917)

The Evening Post ~ Saturday, September 22, 1917

The forty-seven men from Whitley county who composed the second [sic] contingent of men from this locality, had a fine trip to Louisville, Ky., according to letters received by relatives Friday morning. All along the line people were out by the hundreds and thousands to greet them, and they could not but feel proud of the honor that was paid them throughout the state.

They report that they had lunch at Denver. It was served in a box car. The men lined up and Edgar Lorber had hold of the coffee pot, pouring it out to the fellows. They were served with ham and veal sandwiches, hard boiled eggs, bananas, cake and coffee, and they had all the smokes they wanted. More men kept joining their crowd until they had eighteen coaches, totaling 414 men, all bound for Louisville. Logansport was the only place that had more men than this county, as the quotas were not as large from some of them, owing to the number of volunteers who had gone.

At Logansport, women pulled flags off of their houses and rushed over and gave them to the boys, and at Kokomo, a woman took a big silk flag off of the rear of her automobile and ran over to the Whitley county bunch and said she wanted to give her flag to them. They fastened it on the rear of their car.

According to a letter from Edgar Lorber, the fellows were singing nearly all the way to Kokomo. They got quiet there as the Y. M. C. A. men boarded the train and distributed letter paper and envelopes and most of the wrote home. He also stated that the fellows all got acquainted before they had gone very far and the very best of spirit prevailed among them. They were a happy lot and the new surroundings occupied their thoughts and their attention. They were all impressed by the receptions which they received all along the line. At some places, girls were at the train, giving the boys their addresses and telling them that they will write to them if they furnish their addresses. It is hardly probable that any of the boys will furnish their addresses under such circumstances.

Soldier Boys Depart - Part 2 (1917)

Continued from Soldier Boys Depart - Part 1
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday September 22, 1917

The train pulled in promptly at 9:39 and the boys entered a special coach on the rear. Fred McKnight, of the Panhandle company, had been sent here from Logansport to take personal charge and he saw to it that the men had every accommodation. The local board also boarded the train to see that the required number was all present and as soon as this was done the signal was passed to the conductor and the train moved out.

Hundreds of flags were waved in farewell, and the boys left, knowing that they occupied a warm place in the hearts of the folks back home. After they climbed on the car, they opened the windows and talked to their relatives until the train left.

The crowd was so large that many relatives were unable to get near their boys to say good bye, waving at them from a distance, instead. Jim Galvin presented the boys with a box of cigars just before the train left, so they will all have a smoke on the way, if they want it.

When the train over the Panhandle arrived at South Whitley, at ten o'clock, the young men leaving for Camp Taylor, Kentucky, the South Whitley band and a large number of school children met them at the depot. There was a large crowd of friends and relatives present to bid the boys farewell.

There was only one substitute out of the forty-seven men. Russell Albert Bowdy, of South Whitley went in place of Keslar Ray Beers, of Etna township, who was operated upon for appendicitis just two weeks ago. Beers is the young fellow who walked into Clerk Plattner's office Wednesday morning to answer roll call. He stated then that he was ready to go if the board wanted to take him. He was so weak then that he had to be assisted from the office but he was game.

Photograph courtesy of the Whitley County Historical Museum.

The men who went.

The following eight men substituted for those who will go later:

• Samuel Gale Raber, South Whitley, for John B. Rouch.
• Wesley Dakin, South Whitley, for Paul Dwight Pence.
• Walter G. Wetzel, Columbia City, for Homer Sandison Ohmart.
• Ralph Strouse, Columbia City, for William H. Oberkise.
• Norman Lowell Karnes, South Whitley, for Herschel C. Gray.
• Raelin Victor Phend, Columbia City, for Void Truman Humbarger.
• Sidney E. Ort, Churubusco, for Guy H. Thompson.
• Otto Brubaker, Churubusco, for Kesler Ray Beers.

The following men composed the balance of the lot:

• C. Guy Crowell, Columbia City.
• Lewis Glotzer, Fort Wayne.
• Myron J. Growcock, Columbia City.
• Earl R. Bordner, Columbia City.
• Victor L. Gaff, Churubusco.
• Lee Nichols, South Whitley.
• Charles V. Hickman, Coesse.
• Noah J. Wolfe, Columbia City.
• George A. Hawn, Columbia City.
• J. A. Pence, Columbia City.
• Adam Fausz, Columbia City.
• Grover C. E. L. Brown, Columbia City.
• Harry N. Dimmick, South Whitley.
• Homer B. Ray, Columbia City.
• James Trout, Columbia City.
• Ralph D. Slessman, South Whitley.
• Charles E. Dinius, Columbia City.
• Lloyd J. Stough, Columbia City.
• Edgar M. Lorber, Columbia City.
• Charles Hildebrand, Columbia City.
• Earl George Jones, Columbia City.
• William L. Johnston, Larwill.
• Marshall Harshbarger, Columbia City.
• Lozon A. Williamson, Columbia City.
• Charles Egolf, Larwill.
• Adlai White, Columbia City.
• Daniel E. Small, Columbia City.
• Walter L. Blain, Columbia City.
• Firmer R. Born, Columbia City.
• Marshall J. Kates, Columbia City.
• Oris Winebrenner, Churubusco.
• Lester O. Crowell, Columbia City.
• John E. Clingeman, Columbia City.
• Lawrence J. Byall, Columbia City.
• Floyd E. Hyser, Roanoke.
• Walter J. Miller, Churubusco.
• Noah S. Tillman, South Whitley.
• Harry Elmo Burris, Columbia City.
• Amos E. Walker, Columbia City.

Soldier Boys Depart - Part 1 (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday September 22, 1917

Soldier Boys Depart With Throng Waving Farewell.

Forty-seven picked young men from Whitley county left Thursday morning over the Panhandle railroad for Logansport and from there to Louisville, Ky., where they will enter Camp Taylor for training in the new national army. The scene enacted in this city Thursday morning will linger long in the memory of all who witnessed it, and the sadness of the parting which was felt in this community was experienced in other county seats from one end of this broad land to the other. Three hundred thousand more American soldiers entered training camps to prepare to enter the mighty conflict which is sweeping the world.

The business houses of this city were closed and the people turned out by the thousands. Soon after 7 o'clock the selected men commenced to arrive in town and by 8 o'clock hundreds of machines were here from all parts of the county. The public square was decorated with flags, and emblems were flying from nearly every window in the court house. Stores were decorated with flags and bunting and to all appearances, a stranger might have judged that the people were turning out for some gala day celebration.

But it was not an hilarious crowd that gathered here. It was rather a serious, sober gathering of people whose hearts were heavy and whose thoughts ran deep. Every little ways there was a machine load of people and some of the ladies were crying, and they were gathered around the town in groups. There was not much conversation and it was only now and then that you could hear anyone laugh or talk in a loud tone. The serious business at hand and the uncertainty of it all affected the stoutest heart and men everywhere were moved by thoughts of the departure of the young men.

The school children, marching by classes, with the little folks from Miss Mary Raber's room in the west building leading the procession came down Van Buren street at 8:30. The band had gone up to meet them and marched behind the Troop of Boy Scouts who were under the command of Clarence Feist. One of their number marched in the center of a double line, carrying a big flag, the band followed, marching four abreast, and then came the school children.

As the little folks marched down street, each carrying a flag, a spectacle was presented which no one could forget. The boys and girls were serious, like the crowd. There were big flags and little flags and each child had one. The teachers marched at the head of their respective classes. The children from the E. L. McLallen building marched up and joined the larger procession from the west school and high school buildings. The procession halted north of the court house and the old soldiers, veterans of the civil war, fell in line, taking their place at the head of the procession.

The forty-seven men who were to leave were at County Clerk Otis E. Plattner's office Thursday morning at 8 o'clock to answer roll call. They also answered roll call Wednesday morning and evening. Before they marched out of the east side of the court house, the men were presented with a little gift from the businessmen of this city. The gift consisted of a small kit containing a brush, a comb and a metallic mirror, which will not rust. The latter is polished on both sides and it cannot be broken.

[There is an entire column devoted to the speech given by Attorney D. V. Whiteleather, which is being omitted here. . . ]

As the boys marched out onto the east steps of the court house, they halted and L. E. Pontius photographed them, together with the conscription board, composed of Dr. D. S. Linvill, County Clerk Otis E. Plattner and County Sheriff James M. Bodley. The young men removed their hats while the picture was being taken, and a fine, manly looking lot they were. As they marched down the steps, the casual observer was lead to believe that the men who were about to leave were the least disturbed of all.

The procession then moved down the east side of the court house, turned east on Market street to Whitley and thence south to the depot. The band played lively marches most of the way. The big crowd followed, walking in the streets, and getting down there most anyway to get there. The people thronged around the depot. Boys climbed on top of buildings and box cars near by and one fellow even got up on top of the big water tank. The crowd extended more than three hundred feet along the track and the automobiles were there by the score. The size of the crowd was variously estimated from 2,500 to 5,000 and nearly everyone agreed that it was larger than the crowd here Old Settlers Day.

The soldiers mingled with the crowd and there was a good word for all of them as goodbyes were said. They all displayed remarkable self-control; even in the face of heart-breaking scenes and their cheerfulness had much to do with brightening up the situation. The soldier boys were called to assemble at 9:25 and answer to roll call. Phil Farren blew the assembly call. The five corporals, Walter L. Blain, Gale Raber, John A. Pence, Edgar Lorber and Walter J. Miller, who had seven men assigned to them which composed their squads called the roll and kept their men together so as soon as the train pulled in they were all there ready to load in the car. Firmer R. Born was in charge of the contingent and Sidney Ort, of Churubusco, was his assistant.

Continued in Soldier Boys Depart - Part 2, which includes a photograph of the men.

Passed First Red Cross Examination (1917)

The Evening Post ~ Wednesday, September 19, 1917

An even dozen young ladies residing in this city successfully passed the first examination for those who are studying Red Cross work. The examination was recently conducted by Dr. D. S. Linvill and part of the quiz was oral and part of it was written. Some of the grades made were indeed very flattering. The test covered first aid dressing, determining the character of the trouble affecting the injured or ill person, and the proper relief to administer first aid.

The following named ladies passed the examination:

• Mrs. George Brand
• Mrs. Roy Clark
• Miss Elva Riddle
• Mrs. D. S. Linvill
• Miss Bonita Leininger
• Miss Lutha Williams
• Mrs. Lela G. Foust
• Miss Almeda Rockey
• Miss Hildreth Sharp
• Miss Emma Ricker
• Miss Mary Scantling
• Mrs. Mary E. Fries

Dr. F. G. Grisler is the instructor of the class and the students have been following a regular course of study. Several of the young ladies are planning to become Red Cross nurses and are pursuing their studies with the idea in view. They are given a certificate of proficiency for passing the examination given them by Dr. Linvill.

Yarn Is Here For The Knitters (1917)

The Evening Post ~ Wednesday, September 19, 1917

A small amount of yarn has arrived here for the Red Cross knitters and Mrs. Miller, chairman of the knitting department, has a sufficient quantity on hands to start those who are ready to go to work at once knitting outfits for the soldiers. As the supply is so limited each person will be required to make a deposit of a sum equal to the amount of the yarn they take, and upon their return of the knitted article, the money is refunded to them. This policy is followed all over the country. It is highly desirable that the knitting work should be started at once, as it will take some time to distribute the sets to the soldiers even after the pieces have been made.

Stores Will Be Closed Thursday Morning (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 19, 1917

The stores of this city will be closed Thursday morning from 8 o'clock until after the morning Panhandle train leaves at 9:30 bearing the Whitley county contingent of men for the new national army to Camp Taylor, Louisville, Ky. The band will be out and all of the stores and business houses will be decorated with flags and bunting, making the occasion one long to be remembered. It is probable that the schools will be closed so that the children may attend the memorable event.

H. B. Clugston, President of the Commercial Club, has appointed a committee composed of Cash Holderbaum, Phill Farren, Walter Binder, John Clapham and Dr. D. S. Linvill to arrange for the affair and they request that the merchants and townspeople decorate their places of business Wednesday afternoon, as they probably would not have time Thursday morning.

Old Soldiers Will Lead The Way To Depot (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 19, 1917

The old soldiers of this community will lead the procession to the Panhandle depot Thursday morning when the forty-seven men leave to go to Camp Taylor, Louisville, Ky. The schools will also be dismissed for the memorable event. The Moose Band has volunteered to go to the west school building at 8:15 and there the school children will fall in line and march down to the east side of the court house square.

The old soldiers will meet at their hall at about 8 o'clock and they will be at the east side of the court house square not later than 8:30. The fifteen minutes allowed the school children from 8:15 to 8:30 will be sufficient time for them to get to the court house, and after the soldier boys have answered roll call, the line of march will be formed, with the old veterans of former wars leading the way, and the band will play while the new army men and the entire crowd march to the station.

The soldier boys will each be given a remembrance, which will be the gift of the businessmen of Columbia City. It will be something which the fellows can use wherever they go and it will serve as a little token which they may take with them.

The boys must answer to their second roll call Thursday morning at the depot, fifteen minutes before the train leaves. They will get there in plenty of time, and a special car will be carried to accommodate them.

The men are advised not to wear the best clothes as it might be a matter of a few days before they can be fitted out with full equipment. They are also advised to wear high shoes - not oxfords - because it may be a few days before the men can all be fitted out with the regulation army shoe. Marches in low shoes would be tiresome and there would also be danger of getting sand and dust inside the low shoes. The men should also take towels, tooth brush, cake of soap in a celluloid or metal soap box, underclothes, and toilet articles.

Firmer Born Will Be The Commander (1917)

The Evening Post ~ Wednesday, September 19, 1917

Firmer R. Born, son of Mrs. Christian Born, of Thorncreek township, has been appointed by the local board as the man to be in charge of the forty-seven soldiers who leave here Thursday morning. The board has selected Sidney Ort, of Churubusco, as his assistant and five corporals were selected as follows:

Walter L. Blain, of Etna township.
Gale Raber, of South Whitley.
John A. Pence, who has retained his residence here, but has been living and working in Michigan for several years.
Edgar Lorber, Columbia City.
Walter J. Miller, of Churubusco.

The board is required to place one man in charge of the contingent and the others are selected for their respective duties to assist him.

New Director for Whitley County Historical Museum

Talk of the Town has a nice article on Dani Tippmann, the new director of the Whitley County Historical Museum. As a descendant of Tecumwah, who was a sister of Chief Little Turtle, her roots run deep in Whitley County, Indiana.

An article was also recently posted about the retirement of Ruth Kirk from that position this past January.

Talk of the Town is a blog written by Jennifer Zartman Romano that emphasizes the "good news" about the Columbia City community.

Whenever I went to the Museum, Ruth always had a smile on her face and a funny joke to share. She was a joy to work with on the few projects I was able to help with in the last couple of years. It was fun to see her portrayal of various "characters" of the county in the programs she produced. Ruth will definitely be missed and we thank her for her 19 productive years with the Museum!

Young Men From Far Away Are Registered (1917)

The Evening Post ~ Tuesday, September 18, 1917

Several young men from this county, who are living in foreign lands, sent in their registration cards for the selective draft and two from Korea were not received until Tuesday morning. They were from Melvin R. Arick, of Cleveland township, who is working for the Oriental Consolidated Mining Company, of Korea. He does not claim exemption. His registration card shows that he has the index finger of his right hand cut off at the first joint.

The other card from Korea is from Fred S. Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Baker, north of town, who is foreman in a gold stamp mill of the Oriental Consolidated Gold Mining Company, of Unsan, Chosen, Empire of Japan, according to the registration certificate. Mr. Baker does not claim exemption.

There are two registration cards from Canada. One is from Homer Price Johnston, who left for Canada about the time the war broke out. He had his papers certified to by the proper authorities there. He has already been assigned a number, being given number 1243. The others, whose registration cards have just been received, will be given numbers and then the names will be drawn in some manner or other to be announced later.

Another young man from this city who is in Canada is Albert R. Walter, who is in Ontario, working in the munitions plant owned by the Canadian Bridge Company. He, like the others, did not claim exemption.

Whitley County Genealogist appointed

IGS Appoints Whitley County Genealogist

At its February board meeting, the Indiana Genealogical Society appointed Charlotte Blair of Columbia City as the Indiana County Genealogist (ICG) for Whitley County. Charlotte is a retired teacher and principal. A Whitley County native, her interest in the area never waned, even when she lived out-of-state. Her family's roots in the county go back 5 generations. She is currently Vice-President of the Genealogical Society of Whitley County and Historian of the Col. Augustin de la Balme Chapter of DAR. Her current projects include developing a resource guide for the county and compiling an obituary index.

ICG - Indiana County Genealogist - is a program of the Indiana Genealogical Society. Its goal is to appoint qualified individuals to represent each of the 92 counties in Indiana. The ICG is a liaison between the Indiana Genealogical Society and local organizations and individuals, acting as a conduit for genealogy-related news. For more details (including an application form), please visit http://www.indgensoc.org/ICG.html

Congratulations Charlotte!

The Sibert Boys Are Patriotic (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 12, 1917

William Sibert, the village blacksmith of Collamer, and his wife are feeling rather lonesome at the present time, but they find some consolation in the fact that their sons are filled with the patriotic spirit. When the government first called for volunteers Edward and Floyd Sibert answered the call and have been in the service for more than six months past.

Sunday, the third son, Gerald, who is but sixteen years of age, decided to also enlist. He is large and well built and would pass for an 18 year old at any time, and when Alex Goff, 19, son of Heber Goff, and Ray Ulery, 20, whose father is dead, decided they wanted to get into the army, Gerald Sibert felt the impulse so strong that he decided to join them. So Sunday afternoon, the trio were taken from Collamer to South Whitley by Walter Galbreath and there they boarded the Nickle Plate train for Fort Wayne. They went before the recruiting officers there and successfully passed the examination. They were not assigned but were told that they would be assigned in the morning.

All three of the boys are plucky and have many friends in Collamer and vicinity whose good wishes accompany them.

1882 Whitley County History Book Available Online!

The 1882 History of Whitley and Noble Counties is available online at the Family History Archives sponsored by the Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University.

It is full-text searchable and is available to download in four pdf files. I couldn't get the fourth part to display but the first 3 parts came up okay. Each page can also be downloaded individually.

Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana : Historical and Biographical.
Weston A. Goodspeed, Historical Editor.
Charles Blanchard, Biographical Editor.
F.A. Battey & Co. Publishers,1882
Allen County Public Library Call Number: 977.201 W59G
Family History Archives Reference URL: http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/u?/FH20,12461

The Harold B. Lee Library Digital Collections: http://www.lib.byu.edu/online.html

Elmer Pence Writes for Bull Durham (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 5, 1917

Elmer E. Pence, brother of Vern Pence, manager of the Simplex Gas Lighting Company of this city, is now at Sunningdale, England, recovering from injuries sustained in France when the ambulance he was driving was blown to pieces, leaving nothing "but its reputation," as Mr. Pence words it in his good letter which follows. It was received here by Vern Pence Saturday:

Dear Brother:

I will write you a few lines to help pass the time away, as I am not doing anything these days but resting. As the saying here is, I finally got a "Blightey." That is what the boys call it when they get wounded bad enough to get sent back to England. I was shell-shocked by a big one; was driving an ambulance at the time. There was nothing left of the Cadillac but it's reputation. I am all together but badly stiffened up. As near as I can describe it, it felt just the same as if my legs were asleep in the hips and knees, not a bit of life or feeling.

I will get over it alright but it takes considerable time, and I am very happy that I am not shoveling up daisies back in France with a lot of the bunch. Oh well, it is all in the life - some life too. I surely have been born to be hung or else my time has not come yet. I am sure to get alright and if I stay here there is no danger, but if I get well I will have to go back. Now for the important part of this letter. Bull Durham costs 30 cents for a 5 cent package and is hard to get at that. I wish you would send us some by mail registered. Be sure and mark it "socks" plainly so the darned post office clerks won't steal it.

P.S. Bull Durham, small packages, and repeat the order.

Mr. Pence's address is:
Elmer E. Pence
513,981 C. F. C. Co. A.
Attached to Staff,
Smith's Lawn,
Sunningdale, England.

Team Blogging!

Whitley County Kinexxions is now officially a "team" blog! Yay!

Charlotte Hurd Blair has contributed her first post Jonathan & Elizabeth Hurd - Bound for California in Prairie Schooner to the blog. Currently serving as vice-president of the Genealogical Society of Whitley County (Indiana), Charlotte has quite a few ancestors who settled in this area.

Welcome, Charlotte, and thank you for joining the Whitley County Kinexxions team!

First Men Will Go To Louisville (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 5, 1917

The first contingent of the representatives of Whitley county for the New National Army will leave this week for Camp Taylor, Louisville, Ky. Two men will leave on each of three days and this call is for but five per cent of the county's quota. All of the six men who go in the first contingent requested that they be permitted to go first and in all fairness to others we say that there were at least twenty more who volunteered and asked the local board if they might be permitted to be in the first bunch. All of them feel that since they are the chosen ones to go that they want to be among the first ones called.

The first pair to go will be Kellar Sheeler and Gale Frederick Yontz. The former is a son of Mr. and Mrs. George Sheeler of this city, and he has been claim agent on the Pennsylvania lines west of Pittsburg for a number of years. He is an expert in shorthand work and he also is thoroughly qualified as a stenographer and office man. In selected a man who will be of great assistance in carrying out the big task of organizing the new army, it would be hard to find a more competent or more reliable man than Mr. Sheeler is. He was married a year or more ago to Miss Merriette Brand, daughter of Postmaster and Mrs. John W. Brand, and it is probable that he would have been exempt on account of his employment, had he filed claims, but he felt that it was every man's first duty to serve his country when called. Mrs. Sheeler will live with her parents and the Sheeler home on east Van Buren street will be rented by Will Brand and wife for the present.

Fred Yontz is a son of Mr. and Mrs. San Yontz of the Yontz & Hallauer grocer firm, and he, too, is one of the prominent young business men of this city. He had a year of military training while a student in the University of Wisconsin which will make him of considerable value in instructing the new recruits. He has also practically had full business charge of the Yontz & Hallauer store so that his business experience can be utilized to great advantage by the government. Fred was married a few months ago to Miss Merle Weick, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Weick, now of Warsaw. She will stay with Mr. and Mrs. Yontz and with her parents, during the absence of her husband.

Frank Hull, of the Hudson Dry Goods Company, and Donald Floyd Kennedy, who is a barber by trade, and who has been working for Edward Hollinger for the past year, will be the pair that leaves Friday. The former is a son of B. F. Hull and wife, of East Van Buren street. He was a former member of the Columbia City base ball team and he is one of the best athletes this city ever developed. He has been employed at the Hudson store for years and his steady application to his work and his never failing energy won him the recognition of his employers to such an extent that he became a member of the firm at the time Robert Hudson disposed of his interests in the local store. He is unmarried.

Donald Floyd Kennedy will probably have a chance to follow his trade in the army. Barbers are needed there just as much as in private life, and those who have been shaved by him know that he knows how to handle the razor. He is a married man, having a wife and one child, but he felt that his services should be offered to his country if the army could use him. He filed no claims for exemption.

The men who go Saturday are not from this city. One of them, Clyde Everett Bollinger, is from South Whitley, and the other, Dave Buttermore - well everybody knows he's from Busco. Mr. Bollinger is a brother of Ex-County Surveyor H. G. Bollinger and he is a hustler like his brother Harry, and will make a valuable man in the building up of the army organization.

Dave Buttermore will be the favorite of his regiment within a few months, for he can pretty nearly take on all comers in the wrestling game and lay them on their backs. All sorts of athletics are encouraged, for they help to put the men in condition for army life. Few men have a nicer disposition or are cleverer fellows to meet than Dave, and he had no thought of filing claims for exemption once he was called for the draft. He has a lot of friends in this city and in Busco who will wish him good luck and God speed.

None of the fellows in this bunch of six claimed exemption and they are all capable fellows who will work with a will at whatever task is assigned to them.

Messrs Sheeler and Yontz will leave on the Panhandle Wednesday morning and will be accompanied by their wives as far as Indianapolis. From here they go to Logansport and then direct to Louisville.

Jonathan & Elizabeth Hurd - Bound for California in Prairie Schooner

1905

In the Spring of 1905 Mr. and Mrs Jonathan Hurd who live southeast of Columbia City in Columbia Township are making plans to leave about the middle of May on a trip to California in a covered wagon. Going with them on this trip will be their nieces Miss Bertha Miller and Miss Clara Cole of the city and Mr Luther Shoemaker. Mr. Hurd plans to purchase a light wagon and have it covered, like a regular movers wagon, and start out through Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas and drive the entire distance. They have no idea how long they will be gone but say they have allowed a year to get there and a year to get back. They intend to stop for several days whenever they want to visit. They plan to do their own cooking and sleep in the wagon or under it as the forty-niners did. Mr. Hurd said it will be a great pleasure trip and is the only real way to fully enjoy the magnificent scenery.

The day to begin the trip was set for May 17, 1905. On the Monday night before that Mr. and Mrs. Hurd were the victims of surprise when the members of Spring Run Grange and neighbors numbering fifty-two took possession of their home. The occasion was in the nature of a farewell and as a token of the high esteem in which they are held in the community. The evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

In June, 1906, Jonathan Hurd and his wife Mary Elizabeth (Roberts) Hurd and Miss Clara Cole, the remainder of the Hurd Prairie Schooner party who started May 15, 1905 for an overland trip to California arrived home. They traveled over 3,000 miles and reaching a point in Colorado as the terminus of their trip. Miss Bertha Miller started with the group but returned home in July, 1905, and Mr. Luther Shoemaker returned back home in September, 1905. The party passed through Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas, and finally stopped in Colorado Springs, Colorado where they stopped for a few days and then returned to Kansas where they spent the winter with a brother of Mr. Hurd. They started back for home on May 7 but did not send word to their relatives here and their arrival was a big surprise. The trip was quite expensive, although they count it worth the cost.

The information for this posting came from articles that were printed in the Columbia City Post in April 1905, May 1905 and June 1906. Jonathan Hurd is my great great uncle. He was born in Whitley County, IN, on April 14, 1850, the son of Samuel and Bernice (Wilcox) Hurd. He married Mary Elizabeth Roberts on October 28, 1876. She died on April 15, 1925, and he died on January 25, 1933. They are buried at the Oak Grove/Compton Cemetery in Whitley County.

Related Post: Rain and Floods Galore (1905)

What to Take (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 5, 1917

WASHINGTON, Sept. 3 - Drafted men of the first five per cent, contingent who will leave Wednesday for mobilizing camps are directed in regulations issued to-day to take a minimum of civilian clothing and personal belongings. Toilet articles, towels and handkerchiefs are recommended and no objection will be made to two changes of underclothing but other articles are frowned upon.

Attention is called to the fact that civilian clothing will be discarded when camp is reached and to those not desiring to send such apparel back home it was suggested that clothing not worth keeping be worn. The men may carry only light hand baggage on the train and as suit cases and hand bags will not be allowed for permanent use at camp, articles may be carried in bundles if desired.

Before reporting to the local draft board men should have their hair cut very short, should be bathed and wear clean clothing. To insure quick communication with his family each recruit is advised to provide himself with post cards or stamped envelopes.

Drafted Boys Entertained (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, September 5, 1917

The reception held for the drafted boys of Cleveland township, at South Whitley, Friday evening was quite an elaborate affair, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all, and greatly appreciated by the boys.

At six o'clock the families, wives and lady friends of the young men dined at the Baptist church banquet room. At seven o'clock a parade, headed by the South Whitley band, started with the young men in automobiles, and the old soldiers marching through the streets to the K. of P. hall, where a splendid program was enjoyed by those assembled there. The program consisted of solos, duets, quartettes and music by the Fox orchestra, and several addresses. A very large crowd attended and almost half of the people who desired to attend were turned away, there being no more room in the hall.

Better Carry That Registration Card (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, August 15, 1917

Lee Daniel of this city was the first person from here, so far as known, who has been inconvenienced because of the fact that he did not have his registration card with him. Mr. Daniels went to Chicago Tuesday with a carload of cattle. While in the Exchange building at the stockyards he was approached by a U. S. Secret Service man who demanded that he show his registration card. Mr. Daniel had changed clothes before going to Chicago, and had left it at home. He was able, however, to get several men at the stockyards, where he is well known, to vouch for him and so avoided being arrested.

He telephoned to his brother, Harry, who notified the local registration board and Dr. D. S. Linvill and Sheriff James Bodley sent a telegram to Chicago stating that Lee had registered. Harry also mailed him his card and he will have no more trouble. Mr. Daniel said that a number of western stockmen were in town and that government officers who were there arrested a number of them who did not have their cards. The fact that Lee was well known by Chicago men at the yards and that they could vouch for him prevented his arrest.

Paul Wilcox Soon to Sail for France (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, August 1, 1917

Paul Wilcox, son of Clinton Wilcox of the Farmers Loan & Trust Co., may now be on his way to France. He is a member of the company recruited from University of Michigan students in the 91st Ambulance Corps, which has been in training at Allentown, Pa., for the past five weeks.

It was the understanding of the men that they would be trained there for at least three months. The order for them to move in three hours came Saturday afternoon and was entirely unexpected by the members of the corps. Paul telegraphed his father that they had been ordered to prepare to move but a second telegram received by Mr. Wilcox from his son Sunday evening stated that they had not yet left but were not permitted to leave their barracks.

Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox were planning to go to Allentown for a few days soon, but they thought that they would wait until about the middle of the three months' training period. The word from Paul completely changed their plans, as their son will probably be gone before they could reach him.

The ambulance service is one of the most hazardous branches of the service. The drivers have displayed the greatest heroism in removing wounded from the battlefields, and the losses sustained by the various corps have been very great.

With the arrival of Paul Wilcox in France, Columbia City will be well represented. Dr. Merritt Ireland is on Gen. Pershing's staff; Ray P. Harrison is a first lieutenant with the expedition, and Jay Werstler, nephew of Henry Tantlinger, on the south side, is a private in company K, 16th Infantry of the regular army.

Artillery Man is on His Way to France (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, August 1, 1917

Corporal Hugh S. Earl, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Earl, who reside in the north part of the county, is now probably somewhere on the Atlantic on his way to France with a contingent of U. S. artillery. His mother received a letter from him written from an inland point and there was a postscript to it in which the young man stated that he did not get the letter mailed at the place where it was started. The point at which he mailed the letter was on the Atlantic seaboard and in the postscript he stated that they were about to sail.

The young man will be twenty-two years old in August. He was born in this county, up near the Noble county line, and lived here with his parents until about ten years ago when they moved to Texas. Mr. and Mrs. Earl recently moved back to the county. Their son enlisted in the regular army at Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, last January and from there he was sent to Ft. Sam Houston, Texas, where he was assigned to the Seventh Field Artillery, Battery C. He evidently stands well with his officers as he holds a non-commissioned office, that of corporal.

Earl is a nephew of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Jones, of north line street and is a brother of Mrs. John Russell, of East Jackson street.

Jimmy Washburn states that he did not see any artillery in the camp where he landed in France and there were thousands of American troops there - many more in fact, than most people imagine, in his estimation. The artillery is probably being sent over as fast as guns can be provided.

Will Sail For France (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, July 28, 1917

Mrs. Ed Brown has received word from her niece, Miss Kate Hildebrand, who has been a nurse in a hospital at Omaha, Nebraska, that she would leave for New York on the 25th of this month. She expects to sail for France in a short time to take up the work of the Red Cross on the front. Miss Hildebrand is also a niece of Mrs. J. C. Leininger.

Men in Officers' Camp Drilling Hard (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, May 30, 1917

Attorney Phil McNagny arrived home Saturday night from the officers' training camp at Ft. Harrison, near Indianapolis, Ind. Mr. McNagny, who was home a week ago on legal business, came this time on the same mission and to visit his father, W. F. McNagny, who has been quite poorly but is much better at present.

Mr. McNagny states that the Columbia City boys are all well pleased with the camp life and are getting hardened to the regular drill. Tom Pontius, James Adams and himself are stationed in a large room with thirty-five bunks in it, and James Blain, Elmer Bump and Herbert Clugston are stationed in the building next to them. They have very little time to themselves and consequently do not visit back and forth to any extent. The local young men frequently meet Harrold Strouse, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mose Strouse, of this city, who is in the engineering corps. Donald Livengood who left this city and went to the camp from South Bend, arriving there later than the boys from this city, is stationed in a distant part of the camp and does not get to see the local young men often.

Every man is being given a chance to show his ability as a commander of men. Upon arriving at the camp the men were stationed in quarters and assigned to companies. The men in the camp who had military training were picked from the companies and placed in non-commission officers positions. After the men become familiar with the drilling each man will be given an opportunity to show his ability by being placed in command of a squad, platoon or company. During these drills the regular army officers who are stationed at the camp are standing close by taking down notes on the conduct and ability of the various men. The company to which Pontius, Adams and McNagny belong recently had rifle practice on the National Guard rifle range. Each man fired ten shots at 200 yards. Five shots were fired standing and five lying down.

The men from Ohio and West Virginia are stationed on one part of the camp and the men from Kentucky and Indiana are stationed in another part of the camp. It is expected that a medical corps will be stationed at Ft. Harrison before long.

Mr. McNagny stated that all the local young men seem to be well satisfied with the work and had no complaint to make about the meals or accommodations. He thinks the idea of giving the men the rigid drilling is to make them familiar with the hardships of a private, so that when they become officers they will bear in mind the hardships of army life. The men are busy from 5:20 o'clock in the morning until 10:00 o'clock at night. From 7 o'clock until bed time each man is required to study the manuals for the next day's drilling. At the conclusion of one week in the camp every man was given an opportunity to drop out if he felt that he could not stand the work or that he was unsuited to become an officer. Very few men dropped out. Phil will return to camp this evening. He was wearing his uniform.

James Washburn Again on U. S. Soil (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, July 25, 1917

John Washburn is in receipt of a letter from his son, James, saying he is at present in quarantine, off Governor Island, New York, waiting to be passed upon before landing. Young Washburn accompanied Pershing's expedition to France, but was later discharged because he was under age. He was sent to the U. S. at the first opportunity and is at the present time in sight of his native land. He is expected to arrive here this week. He was thirteen days crossing the big pond on his way home. The fact that their son has returned home safely is the occasion for great rejoicing in the home of his parents, feeling as they do that "Jimmie" is so young that he should not be compelled to endure the hardships of battle for a few years yet at any rate.

He has had a wonderful experience and his friends here will all take great pleasure in hearing about it. He is only 16 years of age and the government is doing the right thing in sending the young boys back home. The boys, however, deserve all credit for the courage displayed and for their patriotism.

Two Local Boys Did Not Pass Physical Examination (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, July 4, 1917

The local young men who volunteered to become members of the Ft. Wayne battery have taken the physical examination which resulted in two of them being rejected. Harlow Erne, one of the first to take the examination, is too small, and Hayes Smith has flat feet. Mr. Erne is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Erne and Mr. Smith is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Clel Smith. Both young men were greatly disappointed over failure to pass the examination. Those who passed were Lester Johnson, Homer C. Hatfield, Robert Baker and Geo. Hawn. Harry Ray and Roy Walker, two young men who served with the battery on the Mexican border have re-enlisted.

Son of Rev. Rockey on French Front (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 30, 1917

The following information came to this office from the recruiting publicity bureau of the United States marine corps, and concerns the Rev. and Mrs. C. H. Rockey, formerly of this city:

"One of the especially selected men who are to be first to fight for the Stars and Stripes on the firing line of France is Lieutenant Keller Emrick Rockey of Columbia City. He has gone with a detachment of United States marines who are to form a part of the first American overseas division.

"Lieut. Rockey was born September 27, 1888, at Columbia City. He accepted appointment as a second lieutenant in the marine corps, November 18, 1913, and was assigned to duty at the marine barracks, Norfolk, Va. After a short tour of shore duty in the United States he was sent to sea, being again ordered to the marine barracks, Norfolk, Va., in October 1916, where he served until December, 1916, when he was again sent to sea. He was promoted first lieutenant, August 29, 1916.

"The 'soldiers of the sea' are the oldest branch of our military service, and they have a splendid history. Their activities date back to 1775, and since that time they have been first to fight for America in many countries. Lieut. Rockey was selected for overseas service, in view of his excellent record."

More Women Volunteers (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, July 11, 1917

A special appeal from the National headquarters has been received by the local chapter of the Red Cross to speed up the work room on the following needed articles: 350,000 bathrobes, 3000,000 shoulder wraps, 100,000 pairs bed socks, 800,000 pairs socks, 700,000 handkerchiefs, 250,000 pairs ward slippers, 650,000 hospital bed shirts, 450,000 suits pajamas.

The women of our community are urged to spend at least one afternoon a week (Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) at the sewing room that a shipment of the above articles may be made at the earliest date possible.

With American troops no on French soil and many more to go before winter, it seems the least Columbia City women can do for the soldiers is to fill up the work room at the west ward school building and prove their loyalty and patriotism by deeds.

The chairman of the supplies Committee is already giving three afternoons a week to this work but if there are enough willing workers to demand it she will arrange to have the work room open every afternoon.

This means you. Come and help.

Elmer Pence Writes from Old Country (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, July 11, 1917

Is in a Canadian Regiment and is out on a pass - Is Seeing Many Sights - Visits London and Scotland.

Mrs. J. W. Pence, who is visiting her son, W. L. Pence, of this city received the following letter from her son, Saturday morning. Mr. Pence was formerly employed in Detroit and went to Canada where he enlisted in the English army. He has been across the ocean for several months and has earned a few days' pass. The letter follows:

Dear Mother:

As I have not received any answer to any of my letters I will try again. I am on my 8 day pass now, I stopped two days in London, one day in Edinburg, Scotland, and arrived here in Aberdeen this morning (June 18). It has been a great trip and I will hate to go back the 21st. We eat at the railroad restaurant and sleep in the Y. M. C. A. Everything is absolutely free to returned soldiers. This town has lost nearly all her available men. One battalion --- (censored) --- as the men are all gone up. Boys from the front have it all our own way, free meat, free beds, free cigarettes and plenty of girls. Guess I will get married. If we didn't want to talk to the girls we have to dodge around the corners or go down the alley. All the buildings and fences in England and Scotland are built out of brick or stone - mostly stone. It is certainly a lot different than in the states, and there are not many left in France. Am sending some more flags as curios. The boys are waiting to go down town so I will close for this time. Please write soon.

Your son,
E. E. Pence
12 Draft, C. A. S. C.,
London, England.

Chester Tulley Joins Aviation Corps (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, July 11, 1917

Chester Tulley, a son of Frank Tulley, of Smith township, and well known in Columbia City where he has been employed in various capacities, enlisted in the aviation corps at Fort Wayne, last week and left for Ft. Thomas, Ky., at noon Monday. The young man had no trouble passing the examinations having a grade of 98 per cent in mettle and nerve and 89 per cent in physique. Court Bailiff, Joe Egolf is an uncle of the young man.

Columbia City Boys Enlisted in Battery (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 30, 1917

Lieut. Luther H. Mertz, of Battery D, First Indiana Field Artillery of Ft. Wayne, was in this city Wednesday night seeking recruits for the battery and met with success. Lieut. Mertz and Hayes Linvill, former resident of this city, and now a member of the bather, arrived here early in the evening in company with two auto loads of friends and members of Battery D. The early part of the evening was spent in motoring about town announcing the meeting on the court house lawn. After a crowd of several hundred had gathered Hayes Linvill, the well known socialist orator and former Columbia City lawyer, was introduced. He made a stirring appeal to the young men. He presented the war matter in various patriotic lights and had the large crowd on the verge of tears several times. Intense interest was manifested during the address and when he had completed several young men went forward and enlisted. Lieut. Mertz also made a few remarks.

• Robert Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Baker, of North Oak street, was one of the number who took the oath. He is a young man of splendid character and will make a dutiful soldier.
• Harlow Erne, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Erne, of Collinwood avenue, was also one to enlist. He has been employed on the Pennsylvania section for several years and is a muscular and well built young man who will not be affected by the hot sun.
• John Cramer, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. John Cramer, of North Elm street, enlisted. He was employed with his father at the Peabody saw mill for some time and is an industrious young man.
• Hayes Smith was the fourth and last man to enlist Wednesday night. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Clel Smith, of North Line street.
• George Hawn who, with Robert Baker, has been employed in Logansport, will enlist Thursday night. The two young men returned to this city a few days ago. They were formerly employed on the new city hall.
• Henry Ditton, who was a former member of Battery D and was ordered home from the Mexican border two months before the battery returned, has been ordered into the service and went to Indianapolis Thursday, to make preparations for the arrival of Battery D which will leave soon for that point.
• Homer C. Hatfield, south of this city, also enlisted as a member of Battery D. Mr. Hatfield has been employed on a farm.

During the forenoon of Thursday, Hayes Linvill, who remained in this city, secured the application of Russell Huff, son of Mrs. Fremont White, who has been working in Racine, Wis., as a machinist. The boy is the son of Ora Huff, of Freeport, Ill.

Paul Wilcox Receives Call (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 23, 1917

Paul Wilcox, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Wilcox, of North Main street, received orders Wednesday night to report at Ann Arbor, Mich., as soon as possible as the hospital corps which has been organized at that point has been ordered into camp. Mr. Wilcox made immediate preparations and left for Michigan. He believes that the corps will first be taken to Allentown, Pa., for training, and from there be sent to France.

Army Requirements (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 23, 1917

Men drafted for the service must go to the front unless exempted by the local exemption board. Each board will have a surgeon as a member. It will be his duty to examine every man drafted and to decide whether he is fit for arduous service of fighting.

Under the regulations being framed for the guidance of the exemption boards, men will be exempt unless they meet the following requirements:

• Be not less than 5 feet 4 inches nor more than 6 feet in height.
• Have practically perfect lungs, heart and kidneys.
• Have good hearing and good sight.
• Be free from chronic or mental disorders.
• Possess the normal number of fingers, toes and ears.
• Have no foot deformity; in this is included 'flat feet.'
• Have at least four molar teeth.

In view of the large number of men - more than 9,000,000 - who will be subject to draft, the War Department believes it can afford to be particular.

Carl Lippencott May Go To France (1917)

Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 23, 1917

Carl Lippincott [sic], who for the past three years has been stationed in the Phillippine [sic] Islands as a soldier, has been ordered to leave the islands and it is the belief of his parents that he will soon be or is now on his way to France. The young man is a corporal and is getting $50 per month and is chief of a gun section. All the U. S. soldiers on the island would rather go to France than stay where they are as everything is peaceful and quiet there and the boys want something exciting. He ends his letter by stating that he is not afraid to die for his country and parents. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Lippencott south of this city.

To quote his own words: " How is the dear old home and the things dear to me? Just to get back home once more would be worth five years of life. Sounds like teardrops but it does me good just to say it - the only way I can express my love for you. But I must get the spirit of the soldier and do the best I can. Father, I will do the best I can to serve my country as you did in '61-'65. My parents will never have to be ashamed of their soldier boy. Your loving memories will help me to be strong and do my duty. Should the worst come, I would not hesitate to give my life for my country and my parents. Mother, don't think this is written to make you sad, but to express my love for you. There is something greater in life - doing things to make others free."