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.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
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!
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.
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)
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)
Monday, January 28, 2008
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.
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.
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.
Friday, January 25, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, January 18, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
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."
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."
Monday, January 14, 2008
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
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:
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.
Friday, January 11, 2008
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."
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."
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Alien Resident Makes Statement (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, June 13, 1917
Adam Francis Steurer who registered in the west precinct of Columbia township, as an alien enemy thinks that an explanation of his action is due, and he also has come to the conclusion that he ought not to be so classed. He can remember very little of his childhood, his mother having died when he was but a youngster. He has a number of brothers and sisters. His father left the children many years ago and they have been living as orphans ever since. The young man thinks it probable that his father had taken out at least his first naturalization papers, and if such is the case the son would be classed as a naturalized citizen.
It was because nothing definite could be established that he was registered as an enemy. He has made the statement to Father Kohl of the Catholic church of this city that he would be willing to take the oath of allegiance to the U. S. - even fight for her if necessary. He has voted several times and wishes to place himself in the correct light before his neighbors and friends. He has, as far as possible, put the matter straight to the registration board of the county and they do not regard him as an "enemy" any longer.
Adam Francis Steurer who registered in the west precinct of Columbia township, as an alien enemy thinks that an explanation of his action is due, and he also has come to the conclusion that he ought not to be so classed. He can remember very little of his childhood, his mother having died when he was but a youngster. He has a number of brothers and sisters. His father left the children many years ago and they have been living as orphans ever since. The young man thinks it probable that his father had taken out at least his first naturalization papers, and if such is the case the son would be classed as a naturalized citizen.
It was because nothing definite could be established that he was registered as an enemy. He has made the statement to Father Kohl of the Catholic church of this city that he would be willing to take the oath of allegiance to the U. S. - even fight for her if necessary. He has voted several times and wishes to place himself in the correct light before his neighbors and friends. He has, as far as possible, put the matter straight to the registration board of the county and they do not regard him as an "enemy" any longer.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Not enough excitement for Lieut Fred (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, June 9, 1917
Lieut. Fred Wunderlich, son of Mrs. Eva Wunderlich of this city, is now with a regiment of regular soldiers of the U. S. in the Phillippines [sic], with headquarters at Cebu. He writes his mother that "It is so blooming quiet and peaceful over there that it gets on one's nervers." He says: "There is little excitement over here. Every two or three days we get a little news over the cable, but very little. I suppose there is heaps of excitement at home. I wish I were there. I would rather be down in Jolo in Mindanao. The natives go on the war path down there once in a while and furnish some excitement, but in this place they are too lazy to even fight.
"They are having general mount in front of my office now. I wish you could hear the band. These natives are wonderful musicians and we have a remarkably good band.
"There are no white soldiers at this post. They are all native scouts with white officers. These people make very good soldiers if they have white officers. If left to themselves they are worse than useless.
"I had rather expected to be sent home when war was declared, but I have heard nothing of it, so I suppose I will stay here for some time. I am planning a little hunting trip up into the interior of Negros. It is about five days from the coast. One speaks of distance in the interior in days, meaning the distance one can walk in a day. Often there are no trails even for horses. Along the coast it is entirely different. There are fine roads and many automobiles may be seen."
Lieut. Fred is serving in the capacity of dentist for his regiment, and has been in the service now something more than a year and is getting along nicely.
Lieut. Fred Wunderlich, son of Mrs. Eva Wunderlich of this city, is now with a regiment of regular soldiers of the U. S. in the Phillippines [sic], with headquarters at Cebu. He writes his mother that "It is so blooming quiet and peaceful over there that it gets on one's nervers." He says: "There is little excitement over here. Every two or three days we get a little news over the cable, but very little. I suppose there is heaps of excitement at home. I wish I were there. I would rather be down in Jolo in Mindanao. The natives go on the war path down there once in a while and furnish some excitement, but in this place they are too lazy to even fight.
"They are having general mount in front of my office now. I wish you could hear the band. These natives are wonderful musicians and we have a remarkably good band.
"There are no white soldiers at this post. They are all native scouts with white officers. These people make very good soldiers if they have white officers. If left to themselves they are worse than useless.
"I had rather expected to be sent home when war was declared, but I have heard nothing of it, so I suppose I will stay here for some time. I am planning a little hunting trip up into the interior of Negros. It is about five days from the coast. One speaks of distance in the interior in days, meaning the distance one can walk in a day. Often there are no trails even for horses. Along the coast it is entirely different. There are fine roads and many automobiles may be seen."
Lieut. Fred is serving in the capacity of dentist for his regiment, and has been in the service now something more than a year and is getting along nicely.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Celebrate Their Golden Wedding (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, March 31, 1917
Fifty years is a long time but to those who enjoy the companionship of each other it seems a very short period. Such has been the experience of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Compton, of this city, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Wednesday. The day was spent quietly at their home on North Line street.
Joseph W. Compton was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, May 13, 1843, and is the son of the late Chas. H. and Jemima Compton, who moved to Whitley county, Indiana, in the fall of 1849, and went to the home of Andrew Compton, of Richland township, who came here several years prior to that time and had taken up land in that township. At that time there was a law in the state of Indiana that set aside one section of land in each township for school purposes, and Mr. Compton's father purchased one-fourth of this section in Richland township which was section sixteen. The land purchased was covered with a heavy forest but the newcomers went to work and soon had a home built.
Mr. Compton remained with his parents until he was eighteen years of age, and on the 16th day of October, 1861, enlisted in Company E, 44th Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served during the Civil war and went through some of the thickest of the fighting. He was mustered out and given and honorable discharge on September 30th 1865. Had he remained sixteen more days he would have completed four years of service for the cause of the Union. After the war he came back to Richland township and resided with his parents until his marriage to Mrs. Compton.
Elevia (Croy) Compton was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, November 2, 1846, and is the daughter of the late Daniel and Anny Croy, who came to this county when she was four years old, or during the month of October, 1850. Mr. Croy homesteaded a portion of section fifteen in Richland township and Miss Elevia obtained her education in a log school house near the home of her parents. She was united in marriage to Joseph W. Compton March 28, 1867, and they rented the old Marcus Norris farm in the same township. After living there five years Mr. Compton purchased 40 acres of land which is a part of the farm now owned by his son George O. Compton, of this city. He and his wife resided on the farm until March 1, 1911, when they moved to this city.
After purchasing the Richland township farm Mr. Compton and wife went to work in earnest and in a few years had increased their holdings to 180 acres. They are highly respected by their former neighbors and their many friends in this city. Mr. and Mrs. Compton became the parents of five children, the oldest and the youngest of whom survive, namely, Mrs. Cora Beard, of Richland township, and Attorney Geo. O. Compton, of this city. Mr. Compton has been a life-long republican and was for many years precinct committeeman from his township.
There were fifty guests present at the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Compton, and of the fifty guests only three survive: one brother, George Croy, and two sisters, Miss Kate Croy and Mrs. J. W. Prugh, of South Whitley. The guests rode to the wedding on horse-back as the roads and paths were so muddy that it was impossible to move a wagon.
Fifty years is a long time but to those who enjoy the companionship of each other it seems a very short period. Such has been the experience of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Compton, of this city, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Wednesday. The day was spent quietly at their home on North Line street.
Joseph W. Compton was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, May 13, 1843, and is the son of the late Chas. H. and Jemima Compton, who moved to Whitley county, Indiana, in the fall of 1849, and went to the home of Andrew Compton, of Richland township, who came here several years prior to that time and had taken up land in that township. At that time there was a law in the state of Indiana that set aside one section of land in each township for school purposes, and Mr. Compton's father purchased one-fourth of this section in Richland township which was section sixteen. The land purchased was covered with a heavy forest but the newcomers went to work and soon had a home built.
Mr. Compton remained with his parents until he was eighteen years of age, and on the 16th day of October, 1861, enlisted in Company E, 44th Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served during the Civil war and went through some of the thickest of the fighting. He was mustered out and given and honorable discharge on September 30th 1865. Had he remained sixteen more days he would have completed four years of service for the cause of the Union. After the war he came back to Richland township and resided with his parents until his marriage to Mrs. Compton.
Elevia (Croy) Compton was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, November 2, 1846, and is the daughter of the late Daniel and Anny Croy, who came to this county when she was four years old, or during the month of October, 1850. Mr. Croy homesteaded a portion of section fifteen in Richland township and Miss Elevia obtained her education in a log school house near the home of her parents. She was united in marriage to Joseph W. Compton March 28, 1867, and they rented the old Marcus Norris farm in the same township. After living there five years Mr. Compton purchased 40 acres of land which is a part of the farm now owned by his son George O. Compton, of this city. He and his wife resided on the farm until March 1, 1911, when they moved to this city.
After purchasing the Richland township farm Mr. Compton and wife went to work in earnest and in a few years had increased their holdings to 180 acres. They are highly respected by their former neighbors and their many friends in this city. Mr. and Mrs. Compton became the parents of five children, the oldest and the youngest of whom survive, namely, Mrs. Cora Beard, of Richland township, and Attorney Geo. O. Compton, of this city. Mr. Compton has been a life-long republican and was for many years precinct committeeman from his township.
There were fifty guests present at the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Compton, and of the fifty guests only three survive: one brother, George Croy, and two sisters, Miss Kate Croy and Mrs. J. W. Prugh, of South Whitley. The guests rode to the wedding on horse-back as the roads and paths were so muddy that it was impossible to move a wagon.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Reports From Soldier Camps (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, May 19, 1917
The following assurance was published in the last issue of the Indianapolis News: "Yes, mother, your son was up before 6 o'clock this morning. He ran a hundred yards or two, then went through some exercises and a bit of drill. After that he had a breakfast consisting of beef stew, potatoes, bread cut about an inch and a half thick, and a tin cupful of black coffee. At 7 he marched for an hour over the post roads of Ft. Benjamin Harrison. At 8 he was back on the post parade ground for drill. At 9 he heard a talk on the nomenclature of the rifle. At 10 he was drilling in squad formations and [at] 11 he took his first lesson in semaphore signaling. At 12 he went to his noonday mess - yes, quite eagerly, mother, and at 1 he attended a conference on the care of his military equipment. At 2 he took a course in drill regulations and at 3 he had a lesson in guard duty. After that he was free to study from text books what he will have to do tomorrow."
Phil McNagny, Tom Pontius and James Adams have sent their watches home and will buy "Waterbury" stem-winders. This will enable the boys to keep busy winding them when not otherwise employed. They probably feared they might "lose" their valuable timers when out on a hike or something. No insinuations intended.
The boys write that they are doing well on boiled beef and potatoes, colored bread and black coffee. So far they have not set foot outside the training camp and they rather think leave of absence will be a rare privilege. Not a whimper of complaint has been made by any of them so far.
D. B. Clugston, Jr., is in receipt of a letter from his son, Herbert, who is stationed at Ft. Benjamin Harrison. The writer evidently likes camp life, judging from the enthusiasm with which he writes. He speaks highly of the "feeds" they have and of other interesting things connected with life at the busy fort.
Russell Nowels, who is at the officers' training camp at Fort Sheridan, Ill. Writes his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Nowells, of this city, that the men there look upon the work cut out for them very seriously and they are not unmindful of the possibilities of the future. He says on the average the men are much older than he is, many of them being 40 years of age. He writes that they have an abundance of things for food and in quite a variety too. He is in a barracks with perhaps 150 men.
Mr. and Mrs. John Reider, of North street, are in receipt of a letter from their son, Homer, who recently enlisted in the regular army and is now at Ft. Thomas, Ky. The young man likes army life and is getting along in fine shape.
Donald Livengood, with the Columbia City Floral Company, who went to Fort Harrison along with other young men from this city, writes friends that he is enjoying army life. He states that they are busy from 5:15 o'clock in the morning until 9 o'clock at night. The letter was written Tuesday, and Mr. Livengood stated that his company was not drilling on that day as they had been vaccinated and given an injection of anti-toxine Tuesday morning. Most of the members of his company were sick as a result of the vaccination. He did not have much to say about the grub but did state that he liked the eats, but old Hotel De Clugston looked better to him.
The following assurance was published in the last issue of the Indianapolis News: "Yes, mother, your son was up before 6 o'clock this morning. He ran a hundred yards or two, then went through some exercises and a bit of drill. After that he had a breakfast consisting of beef stew, potatoes, bread cut about an inch and a half thick, and a tin cupful of black coffee. At 7 he marched for an hour over the post roads of Ft. Benjamin Harrison. At 8 he was back on the post parade ground for drill. At 9 he heard a talk on the nomenclature of the rifle. At 10 he was drilling in squad formations and [at] 11 he took his first lesson in semaphore signaling. At 12 he went to his noonday mess - yes, quite eagerly, mother, and at 1 he attended a conference on the care of his military equipment. At 2 he took a course in drill regulations and at 3 he had a lesson in guard duty. After that he was free to study from text books what he will have to do tomorrow."
Phil McNagny, Tom Pontius and James Adams have sent their watches home and will buy "Waterbury" stem-winders. This will enable the boys to keep busy winding them when not otherwise employed. They probably feared they might "lose" their valuable timers when out on a hike or something. No insinuations intended.
The boys write that they are doing well on boiled beef and potatoes, colored bread and black coffee. So far they have not set foot outside the training camp and they rather think leave of absence will be a rare privilege. Not a whimper of complaint has been made by any of them so far.
D. B. Clugston, Jr., is in receipt of a letter from his son, Herbert, who is stationed at Ft. Benjamin Harrison. The writer evidently likes camp life, judging from the enthusiasm with which he writes. He speaks highly of the "feeds" they have and of other interesting things connected with life at the busy fort.
Russell Nowels, who is at the officers' training camp at Fort Sheridan, Ill. Writes his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Nowells, of this city, that the men there look upon the work cut out for them very seriously and they are not unmindful of the possibilities of the future. He says on the average the men are much older than he is, many of them being 40 years of age. He writes that they have an abundance of things for food and in quite a variety too. He is in a barracks with perhaps 150 men.
Mr. and Mrs. John Reider, of North street, are in receipt of a letter from their son, Homer, who recently enlisted in the regular army and is now at Ft. Thomas, Ky. The young man likes army life and is getting along in fine shape.
Donald Livengood, with the Columbia City Floral Company, who went to Fort Harrison along with other young men from this city, writes friends that he is enjoying army life. He states that they are busy from 5:15 o'clock in the morning until 9 o'clock at night. The letter was written Tuesday, and Mr. Livengood stated that his company was not drilling on that day as they had been vaccinated and given an injection of anti-toxine Tuesday morning. Most of the members of his company were sick as a result of the vaccination. He did not have much to say about the grub but did state that he liked the eats, but old Hotel De Clugston looked better to him.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Jay Wearstler Now in France (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, August 1, 1917
Word was received by D. H. Tantlinger, uncle of Jay Wearstler, that Jay is now in France with Pershing. Young Wearstler enlisted in the U. S. army last January. He received most of his training at El Paso, Texas. It was from this place that the "Post" was favored with a letter from him enclosing a photograph. At the same time he wrote his uncle and at that time said Mr. Tantlinger should not try to answer until he (Jay) wrote again. This is the first word that has been received from Jay since that time. He says he is in fine health and that everything is going fine. His letter was very short because of the strict censorship that is maintained. Jay's friends will be glad to know that he is developing into such an excellent representative of Uncle Sam's men.
The young man was a carrier boy on the Post force a few years ago, passing the "Northwest" route which is now passed by "Billy" Snyder, and later he passed the "South Side" route which is regularly carried by Jack Pentz but as the latter is enjoying his "vacation", Douglas Marker is the carrier. Jay was a very conscientious young fellow, and though he is not very old, he will be steadfast to duty wherever he may find it. The letter received by his uncle was postmarked Paris, France July 4, so it is probable that he was one of the members of the picked battalion which paraded there for the edification of the French people on the anniversary of America's independence. The young man is a member of Co. K, 16th infantry U. S. A.
Previous Post: Jay Wearstler Likes Soldier Life (1917)
Word was received by D. H. Tantlinger, uncle of Jay Wearstler, that Jay is now in France with Pershing. Young Wearstler enlisted in the U. S. army last January. He received most of his training at El Paso, Texas. It was from this place that the "Post" was favored with a letter from him enclosing a photograph. At the same time he wrote his uncle and at that time said Mr. Tantlinger should not try to answer until he (Jay) wrote again. This is the first word that has been received from Jay since that time. He says he is in fine health and that everything is going fine. His letter was very short because of the strict censorship that is maintained. Jay's friends will be glad to know that he is developing into such an excellent representative of Uncle Sam's men.
The young man was a carrier boy on the Post force a few years ago, passing the "Northwest" route which is now passed by "Billy" Snyder, and later he passed the "South Side" route which is regularly carried by Jack Pentz but as the latter is enjoying his "vacation", Douglas Marker is the carrier. Jay was a very conscientious young fellow, and though he is not very old, he will be steadfast to duty wherever he may find it. The letter received by his uncle was postmarked Paris, France July 4, so it is probable that he was one of the members of the picked battalion which paraded there for the edification of the French people on the anniversary of America's independence. The young man is a member of Co. K, 16th infantry U. S. A.
Previous Post: Jay Wearstler Likes Soldier Life (1917)
Saturday, January 5, 2008
The First Bennett Reunion Held (1913)
Columbia City Post ~ Wednesday, October 1, 1913
The Bennett family reunion was held Sunday at the home of Simon Bennett of Laud. 69 were present. The out of town guests were: Alonzo Grace, of Illinois; Arthur Grace, of Celina, Ohio; Will Bennett and family, of Briceton, Ohio; Mrs. G. E. Houser, of Michigan City, Ind.; Mr. and Mrs. Col. Bennett, of Andrews; John Emerick and family, of Huntington; Mr. and Mrs. Lawrance Inches, of Bourbon; Sol Bennett, of Larwill; Dr. Koontz and wife, of Roanoke; Harrison Knisely; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Frame and daughter and Maude Bennett, of Ft. Wayne. The meeting next year will come on the second Sunday in August at the home of John Bennett at Laud.
The Bennett family reunion was held Sunday at the home of Simon Bennett of Laud. 69 were present. The out of town guests were: Alonzo Grace, of Illinois; Arthur Grace, of Celina, Ohio; Will Bennett and family, of Briceton, Ohio; Mrs. G. E. Houser, of Michigan City, Ind.; Mr. and Mrs. Col. Bennett, of Andrews; John Emerick and family, of Huntington; Mr. and Mrs. Lawrance Inches, of Bourbon; Sol Bennett, of Larwill; Dr. Koontz and wife, of Roanoke; Harrison Knisely; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Frame and daughter and Maude Bennett, of Ft. Wayne. The meeting next year will come on the second Sunday in August at the home of John Bennett at Laud.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Fred Mack Public Sale (1870)
Columbia City Post ~ March 16, 1870
Public Sale. - The undersigned will sell at public sale, at his residence in Thorncreek township, 4 miles northeast of Columbia city, on Monday, March 21, 1870, at 10 o'clock a.m., the following described property, to-wit: Three good Work Horses, 2 yearling Colts, 3 Milch Cows, 5 Calves, one Heifer, 10 Stock Hogs, one two-horse Wagon, 2 setts of harness, (one entirely new), 2 good Saddles, one pair of Bob-Sleds, one Fanning Mill, one Steel and one Shovel Plow, one Harrow, and other Farming Utensils; one Cook Stove, one Table, 3 Bedsteads, 6 Chairs, and other Household and Kitchen Furniture. Also a large quantity of Lard and Meat, which will be sold for cash only, and a large number of other articles.
Terms. - A credit of 9 months will be given on all sums over $5.00, the purchaser giving his note with approved security, waiving valuation and appraisement laws.
FRED MACK. - - William Dunfee, Auctioneer.
Public Sale. - The undersigned will sell at public sale, at his residence in Thorncreek township, 4 miles northeast of Columbia city, on Monday, March 21, 1870, at 10 o'clock a.m., the following described property, to-wit: Three good Work Horses, 2 yearling Colts, 3 Milch Cows, 5 Calves, one Heifer, 10 Stock Hogs, one two-horse Wagon, 2 setts of harness, (one entirely new), 2 good Saddles, one pair of Bob-Sleds, one Fanning Mill, one Steel and one Shovel Plow, one Harrow, and other Farming Utensils; one Cook Stove, one Table, 3 Bedsteads, 6 Chairs, and other Household and Kitchen Furniture. Also a large quantity of Lard and Meat, which will be sold for cash only, and a large number of other articles.
Terms. - A credit of 9 months will be given on all sums over $5.00, the purchaser giving his note with approved security, waiving valuation and appraisement laws.
FRED MACK. - - William Dunfee, Auctioneer.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Keiser Reunion - Largest They Have Ever Held (1922)
The Evening Post ~ Wednesday, August 23, 1922
Nearly three hundred attended the Keiser family reunion Sunday at the Daniel Eberhard home a mile north of Peabody.
The annual reunion of the Keiser families was held Sunday at the hospital [sic] country home of Daniel Eberhard, a mile north of Peabody, and it was the largest and best reunion this family has ever had.
Tables were spread in the orchard west of the house and there was ample room for the parking of automobiles. At the noon hour, when all the guests were seated at the table, actual count showed that there were 282 persons present. The tables fairly swayed under the load of fried chicken, cakes and good things to eat. More relatives came later, so the number must have come very close to three hundred.
Members of the family were there from far and wide, some of them having driven a hundred and forty miles to be present at the reunion. There were two long tables placed under big tarpaulins so that all were in the shade while eating dinner.
During the afternoon, ice cream and lemonade were served and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Yontz presented the crowd with ten pounds of chocolates. Men and women engaged in horseshoe throwing contests, and several courts were fixed up so that several teams could be playing at one time. A program was carried out after the crowd was called to order, by the president, Levi J. Keiser, in which there were recitations and singing, and talks were made by Mrs. Bessie Keiser, Hon. N. F. Watson and O. B. Creager, and Levi Keiser talked interestingly of his trip through the west and to Alaska.
The officers were re-elected, Levi Keiser being president; Ephraim Schrader, secretary, and William Hartman, treasurer. It was decided that the next reunion will be held at the home of Frank Cusick, a mile north of this city on Line street.
Nearly three hundred attended the Keiser family reunion Sunday at the Daniel Eberhard home a mile north of Peabody.
The annual reunion of the Keiser families was held Sunday at the hospital [sic] country home of Daniel Eberhard, a mile north of Peabody, and it was the largest and best reunion this family has ever had.
Tables were spread in the orchard west of the house and there was ample room for the parking of automobiles. At the noon hour, when all the guests were seated at the table, actual count showed that there were 282 persons present. The tables fairly swayed under the load of fried chicken, cakes and good things to eat. More relatives came later, so the number must have come very close to three hundred.
Members of the family were there from far and wide, some of them having driven a hundred and forty miles to be present at the reunion. There were two long tables placed under big tarpaulins so that all were in the shade while eating dinner.
During the afternoon, ice cream and lemonade were served and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Yontz presented the crowd with ten pounds of chocolates. Men and women engaged in horseshoe throwing contests, and several courts were fixed up so that several teams could be playing at one time. A program was carried out after the crowd was called to order, by the president, Levi J. Keiser, in which there were recitations and singing, and talks were made by Mrs. Bessie Keiser, Hon. N. F. Watson and O. B. Creager, and Levi Keiser talked interestingly of his trip through the west and to Alaska.
The officers were re-elected, Levi Keiser being president; Ephraim Schrader, secretary, and William Hartman, treasurer. It was decided that the next reunion will be held at the home of Frank Cusick, a mile north of this city on Line street.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Col. Harrison Saw The Big Frenchmen (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917
Col. Jos. R. Harrison had the pleasure of being present Tuesday when Gen. Joffre and his fellow Frenchmen visited at Indianapolis. He heard Viviani speak and says he puts a lot of him into his remarks and displays tremendous energy and feeling. The streets were a solid block of humanity for squares. He visited the office of Adjutant-General Smith and says the game there reminded him of a state convention. There is little but war talk wherever one goes.
Col. Jos. R. Harrison had the pleasure of being present Tuesday when Gen. Joffre and his fellow Frenchmen visited at Indianapolis. He heard Viviani speak and says he puts a lot of him into his remarks and displays tremendous energy and feeling. The streets were a solid block of humanity for squares. He visited the office of Adjutant-General Smith and says the game there reminded him of a state convention. There is little but war talk wherever one goes.
Will Take Examination (1917)
Columbia City Post ~ Saturday, May 12, 1917
Dr. Otto Grisier, of this city, and Dr. Miles Porter, Jr., of Ft. Wayne, will report at the naval station in Chicago Monday morning for physical examination. Both men are on the reserve physician list and in case they pass the examination and are needed will be sent to some naval base where they will begin their duties as naval physicians. They will likely be at home the latter part of next week and in case they pass the examination will be ordered out in about three weeks. Physicians are given that much time in order that they may close up all business matters.
Dr. Otto Grisier, of this city, and Dr. Miles Porter, Jr., of Ft. Wayne, will report at the naval station in Chicago Monday morning for physical examination. Both men are on the reserve physician list and in case they pass the examination and are needed will be sent to some naval base where they will begin their duties as naval physicians. They will likely be at home the latter part of next week and in case they pass the examination will be ordered out in about three weeks. Physicians are given that much time in order that they may close up all business matters.
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