Paragould, Arkansas

Paragould, Arkansas

January 16, 1915

Dear Editor Press:

I write a few lines for the "non-resident issue,” of the Press. It has been a little better than 10 years since we left our old home in Lawrence County, and came to Arkansas, locating among good people of Paragould.

My former home was 1 1/2 miles northeast of Sumner, where my father, Amos Grogan, now lives. My husband lived 2 1/2 miles northwest of Sumner on the Alsey home place.

Our children Wilma and Amos, have learned to enjoy the visits, back to "Old Lawrence".

We enjoy reading the old home paper and are always glad to hear from old friends in Lawrence. We also think the reunion will be like a homecoming. I anxiously await the issue, as it is published on my birthday, February 11. Thanking the editor for this favor. I am yours sincerely.

Mrs. Clementine Alsey

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Paragould, Arkansas

January 18, 1915

Editor Press:

It affords me great pleasure to write to the non-resident issue of the Press. I was born March 24, 1883 in Lawrence County, Christy Township, 2 1/2 miles southwest of Sumner. I resided in Lawrence County until 1904, when I came to Paragould, Arkansas and began working for a Valve and Heading Manufacturing Company for $40 per month and I am with the same company, and now receive a salary of $75 per month.

I was married on June 6, 1906 to Miss Myrtle Lytle of the city.

Our home has been blessed with two sons. The oldest Joe Lytle Alsey, was born May 29, 1910, died October 5, 1911 Howard Milton Alsey was born February 5, 1912.

Paragould has a population of 8000, and is indeed a city of churches and schools. There are twelve churches, four Baptists, three Methodist, two Christian, one Presbyterian, one Holiness and one Catholic. We are members of the East Side Methodist Church. There are six schools, four public schools, one high school and one Business College.

This is a land of opportunity, and we quite often see residents of Lawrence County in this vicinity. There are several non-residents of Lawrence County in this city, but will leave them to write for them selves.

I will close wishing the “Pink Issue" a great success.

Yours truly,Libe Alsey

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Princeton, IndianaJanuary 11, 1915

The Sumner Press:

The opportunity of addressing a communication to you, to be published along with other communications from persons formally residing in Lawrence County, that are now non-residents, I accepted with pleasure.

(Clementine Alsey)Biographical Note:Clementine Alsey nee Grogan was born in 1876 and married Ellsworth Alsey of Lawrence Co about 1904. At the time of this letter, her daughter, Wilma was about 9 years old and her son Amos was about 7.

---------(Libe Bern Alsey)Biographical Note:Libe Bern Alsey was the son of William and Joanna Alsey. The father, William, born in Hanover, Germany, came to America with his parents and two sisters when he was 5 years old (1849). At an early life he became an orphan and lived with an aunt in St. Charles, Missouri until he was 17 yrs of age. Thence he moved to Cincinnati and was married to Joanna Hicks in 1863. He then moved to Lawrence County where he farmed for the remainder of his life dying in 1908. He and Joanna had ten children, 5 girls and 5 boys. Libe was 32 years old when this letter was written and was the brother-in-law of Clementine Alsey. His wife Myrtle died Sept 26, 1918 and he married Ida May Cox in 1919. It appears that both Libe and his brother, Ellsworth left Lawrence County before their father died---------(Charles O. Baltzell)Biographical Note:

Charles O. Baltzell, born March 1873, was the son of a Civil War veteran, Henry H. and his wife, Margaret C. Rodrick Baltzell. His father held several town offices upon his return from the war.

Charles married Maud Bennyhuff in 1898 and the son he refers to in this letter is Ernest R. Baltzell born 1899. Before moving to Princeton ,Indiana, Charles taught school at Pinhook School, a one room school located in Bridgeport Township. Later in 1900, his brother Robert also taught there. Robert later went on to practice law in Indiana also, and was appointed a federal judge by President Coolidge serving 25 years on the bench.

Editor’s Note:

On January 21, 1916 Charles wrote another letter:” I have been located at Princeton, Indiana, following the practice of the law for practically 18 years. During that time have had some varied experiences in a business and political way and otherwise. We have a son, our only child, now 16 years of age, who is a freshman in our State University. Aside from my work in my profession, I am president of the Citizens Trust and Savings Bank, which gives me broader opportunities in a business way.”

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(Olive Bell)

Biographical Note:

Olive Bell (nee Bass) was the daughter of Henry V and Louisa Pamplin Bass of Lukin Township, Lawrence Co, Il. She married Julius (or Johan C.) Bell on March 25, 1896 in Clayton , St Louis Co, MO. She was about 42 years old when she wrote this letter, and the children she refers to are Arthur, Leslie and Olivia. Her husband was a stationary engineer in an ice plant.

Annotation:

A stationary engineer was a man who operated or assisted in the operation of steam power plants, as well as refrigerating and ventilating systems and had to be familiar with all mechanical devices found in such facilities. As such this occupation was considered to be one of importance, and a good job to have, although the hours were usually 10 hours a day.

Having maintained my home in Petty Township from the time of my birth until after attaining my majority, I have always and do think and speak of it as my home. Since finishing my school work, in 1898, I have resided in this place, my wife, a son, 15 years of age, and myself constitute our family aside from my father. H. H. Baltzell who makes his home, a part of the time, with us. My mind oft times goes back to my school days, spent at the Leach school and later the public schools of Sumner and the four years I spent teaching in public schools of Lawrence County.

I shall ever have fond memories of my boyhood days, spent in Petty Township, and of the people, there are no better.

Most respectfully,Charles O. Baltzell

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East St. Louis, IllinoisJanuary 14, 1915Dear Sirs:

My former home being in Lawrence I thought I would write something of my life since I left there.

I was born in Lukin Township in the vicinity of Prairie schoolhouse. I lived there for 17 years and came to St. Louis, where I worked for several different families in the capacity of house girl. I followed this six years, then was married. I have had fairly good luck so far. My husband is a stationary engineer here in the city. I have two boys and one daughter. The two boys are in their third year of high school and the girl is in her eighth grade and will graduate in June.

My former name was Olive Bass but is now Mrs. J. C. Bell. I was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Bass.

I and glad if I can help you along by contributing this small article.

I remain yours very truly,Mrs. J. C. Bell526 north 13th Street

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January 14, 1915Editor Press:

As you want the non-resident subscribers to write a sketch of their lives, I will try from memory, as I have no dates.

I was born on a farm six miles south of Sumner in 1830 where there are no schools, no town, and no churches. My maiden name was Spencer, my father's name was Thomas Spencer, and my mother's was Lanterman.

When I was five years old we moved a mile west of Sumner no town then. Lived there until 1887, and then moved to Sumner. Lived there until 1904, when Mr. Bell died and I went to Salem to live with a daughter, Mrs. Draper. Lived there three years and she died, and then I went to Sedalia, Missouri, to live with my youngest daughter, Mrs. Dr. Staats, where I'm living now.

I'm a member of the Christian Church in Sumner, the only charter member living. I am 84 years and 1 month old. Have many friends in and around Sumner. Wish all of them a happy and prosperous year.

Mrs. Philo Bell

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Fletcher,Ulcaml County, OhioJanuary 17, 1915

Editor Press:

While we have never been residents of Lawrence County, we had the pleasure of spending several days last summer with relatives and friends in Sumner and vicinity.

We have been receiving the Press for some time past, through the courtesy of our nephew, Oliver Baltzell, who we wish to thank very kindly for the favor.

We enjoy very much the columns of the Press, as we always appreciate the news of the former buckeyes that are now located in Lawrence County.

Very truly,Mr. and Mrs. George H. Benham

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(Mary Emmaline Spencer Bell)Biographical Note:

Mary Emmaline Spencer Bell was born Sept 1830 and listed her occupation prior to her husband’s death in 1904 as milliner. They had had three children Carrie , Hattie and Effie M. but only two of them were alive by 1900. By 1910 she was living with Effie, who had married Dr. Ethan Staats. Mrs Philo Bell died July 30, 1925 and buried in the Sumner Cemetery.

Editor’s Notes:

Mrs. Philo Bell wrote another letter for the 1916 Edition of the Pink Letters. In it she repeats that she is living with her youngest daughter, Mrs. Dr. Staats, and is in “ reasonable health for one of my age, have practically lost the use of my right arm, can't write or do much else” and doesn’t enjoy the cold weather very well. She goes to Sunday school and Church most every Sunday, as it is just across the street. She also adds some biographic information about Philo Bell. ‘He was born near Sumner in 1830. She wrote another letter on January 16, 1917 from Sedalia Missouri, enclosing a money order for another year’s subscription to the Press and stated that her eyes were so poor she could hardly read, and she was too shaky to write anything for the Press that year. However, January 20, 1919 she writes again: “From your oldest non-resident, I am 88 years and 5 months old; only missed 3 Sundays this year at church and Sunday school. Have 12 grandchildren and 9 great children and 1 great great-grandchild. How is that for an Illinois mother? Also am a member of the Red Cross. Have been away from Lawrence county 17 years.”

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(George H. Benham)

Annotation:

The term “former buckeyes” refers to residents of Ohio

(Mrs. William E. Berninger)Biographical Note:

Annotation:

A Dray is a type of a horse- drawn wagon used to haul goods.

Editors Note:

Ursula E. Morgan Berninger wrote another letter on January 7,1917 from the same address. She stated that she “still had a warm spot in her heart for old Lawrence county. We moved to Indianapolis in 1906. My boy was just four years old, and now he is 14 and past. He will graduate in common school in three weeks. Since coming here I have learned to love old Indiana. My man can say what a lot of men can't. He has worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad ever since we lived here. It is 11 years the 14th day of February. Since living in Indianapolis the Lord has blessed us by sending us a little daughter, which brought happiness into our family.” One year later she wrote another short letter in which she says that as long as her father, mother, brother and sister-in law still live in Lawrence county she will use her (RR) card pass and visit there.

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Indianapolis, IndianaJanuary 13, 1915

Dear Editor:

We first moved from Parkersburg to Lawrence County when I was but eight years of age, I lived in the County from the time I moved there until I was almost 17. We then moved to Sumner, where I lived until I was 26. When I became 26, I was married to W. E. Berninger of Lancaster. We then moved to Lancaster and lived there three months. We then came to think Lawrence County the best, after all and again moved to Sumner. My husband then bought a dray, and drayed a while, but he became dissatisfied and sold the dray. He then went north six months and worked, came back to Lawrence County and secured a position on the B. & O. Railroad with Mr. Orr. He worked a while at this and finally came to Indianapolis and found work with the Pennsylvania road, where he has been working for the past nine years. It as though railroad work is more abundant than any other.

My maiden name was Miss Ursula E. Morgan daughter of L. H. MorganYours truly,

Mrs. William E. Berninger 427 North Dearborn Street

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Equality

Gallatin County, IllinoisJanuary 26, 1915Mr. Editor:

We consider it a great pleasure and count it a great privilege to read the Press, for it is through the courtesy of some kind friend that we enjoy this great paper, for it certainly has grown to be interesting.

Our stay in Sumner though brief was a very pleasant one. No place on earth can't afford better people. The Rev.Brooks having charge of the Presbyterian Church there and one night in walking the floor (as sometimes preachers do) of the little Presbyterian manse a vision appeared to him and he heard a voice from Equality say, come over and help us, and we came in the vision was a great multitude of unsaved people, and since our coming 160 of this multitude have confessed Christ as their Savior. Now someone may ask, did it pay for you to leave Sumner? Yes I say 1000 times yes. When we remember the value that master put on them, he says one soul is worth the whole world. And speaking of the Presbyterians did you ever go up to their little church to worship?

If you haven’t you have certainly missed a treat and if you have, you will go again, were you meet so many fine people such as G. W. McNece and wife, H A. Piper and wife, Ferd Foss and wife, John Culbertson and wife, G. R. Stout and wife, Mr. Klingler and wife, and the Thompson brothers and dear Miss Ora, but always gave as such good cheer on our way, and H. M. Wagner and Miss Stella, John McVicker and family, Mr. Legg and wife, Shelby Piper and little wife and brother Hull and good wife, Mr. and Mrs. Pickering and those dear elderly ladies, Mesdames Catherine Piper, McClure and Grow, how they did cheer and encourage us by their warm hand clasp and last, but not least, the great Sabbath school man, Dr. Dale, and many others too numerous to mention.

We are all real well, both children, Mary and Watson, are in school have fine school year. Now about the Press, I feel the extra edition all decked out as you plan will be exceedingly fine and interesting

Success and best wishes to all and may this year be the greatest year in all the history of the dear old Press, because of his presence with you.

Cordially,

Mrs. M. Brooks

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Vincennes, IndianaJanuary 25, 1915Editor Press:

In complying to your request for a short letter from all who once lived in Sumner, will say, I believe there is something inspiring about your little city, for since leaving there I have been asked many times, where are you from and it always makes me feel proud to answer, from Sumner, Illinois. I just can't help it.

Well, we broke camp at Sumner on June 29, 1906, and located at St. Francisville, there we entered the grocery business and during our first year was hard to get by, but we pulled through and were doing a nice business but we sold out and moved to Vincennes, where we thought the children would have a better chance. We also bought a store and are doing a good business here.

Now about my family. It was for Edna and the babies, don't you know. I am glad to report that we still have the same number that we left Sumner with, namely: Edna Pearl, Mary Jeanette, George Hubert, Daniel Leslie and Miss Helen, and, by the way, they are some boosters for Sumner, Illinois, too.

Well, I will not take up any more space this time, except to say that I am proud I was raised in Sumner and have some very good friends there and extend an invitation to all when in Vincennes to call at our home. Just take a car at union station and tell the conducted to put you off at first and Swartzel.

Respectfully,George and Edna Burnside

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Chicago, Illinois5600 Drexel AvenueJanuary 16, 1915Editor Press:

Saturday morning is red letter day in our weekly calendar. Why? That is the mail on which the Press arrives. We are sure that no "Sons of Old Lawrence" can give it a more hearty welcome then that it receives here. Letters can keep one tied to the old home, but it takes a hometown paper to keep in touch with all. Certainly the Press is a wonder at doing this.

(George Burnside)

Biographical Note:

George B Burnside married Edna Jackson Dec 25, 1892. He was the son of Samuel and Mary Burnside, farmers in Christy Township. At the time of the 1915 letter, the children’s ages were: Pearl, 20, Mary 18, George 14, Daniel 11, and Miss Helen 9.

Editor’s Note: George B Burnside wrote another letter in 1916 from the same address: This finds us still on the job at our store in Vincennes. Things have been running along much the same…Of course, business has been a little puny, but I am under the impression it will be much better before the end of the year 1916. ..Our happy family of five little Burnside’s is still unbroken.”

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(Guy Buzzard)

Biographical Note:

Guy Buzzard was the son of Peter and Anna (Piper) Buzzard of Christy township, Lawrence County, Il. In 1910 he was still living with his parents and teaching in the county, but after graduating in 1914 from Normal State University at Normal Ill, he continued his education at University at Chicago. There he became President of the ISNU Alumni club whose purpose was to further the social life of the alumni among other things. He also became a member of Sigma XI (a fraternal organization for research in science) His doctorate dissertation dealt with the geography of Cape Cod. He married Irene Couchman from Sumner on Sept 12, 1920 and they had 4 sons. In 1933 he became President of Eastern Illinois University retiring from that post in 1956.

Annotation:

A “normal school” is a school created to train high school graduates to be teachers. Its purpose is to establish teaching standards or norms, hence its name.

Biographical Note:

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Now, "Get Together" is a slogan of the age. So do Sumner folks when far away, and what is what we have done. In answer to your kind invitation, "Modesty" forbids us to tell about ourselves-we shall tell about each other. Now if the ladies will kindly remove their hats.

Harry Lathrop, whose father, Mr. G. S. Lathrop, lives just east of Sumner, owes in my mind a great deal to Old Lawrence his success since he left her boundaries is conclusive proof. It was on the banks of Muddy, which flowed near the old home just north of the famed Captain Lewis farm, that he taught him the first lesson of his chosen profession-teaching. I suppose instructing the fish the danger of biting on the Sabbath, so it must have been, for the records of Lawrence County’s Rural Schools credit Harry with four years successful teaching. Teaching led to work in a normal school, and Harry found himself a student in the Illinois state Normal University at Normal, Illinois. After graduation in June, 1912, he was offered the principalship of the high school at Paxton, Illinois, for the next school year, and accepted. The call to his Alma Mater however, was so strong that after one year at the Paxton High he returned to normal to finish his undergraduate work-and other studies. With the class of 14 he received the degree of Bachelor of Education. Not only did he leave the old Normal with an enviable record as a student, but, with honors in other lines as well. Among the debating circles of the normal schools of Wisconsin, Indiana, and our own Illinois, he has a reputation as a winning debater. In literacy society work he was a leader, but his greatest achievement has been beyond a doubt the "attachments" that he formed in Normal.

At present he is doing graduate work in the Department of Geography and economics in the University of Chicago, working for the degree of Master of science. "An authority in geographic circles on the Illinois oilfield." With, how could he help it?-We leave him.

One minute for change of reels.

Robert Guy Buzzard, commonly known as plain "Guy," Finney Sumner high school in 1909. Having heard the call of the pedagog he spent three years uplifting the country boys and girls of his home county but having seen the proverbial loader with lots of room up higher he determined to occupy some of the hitherio unoccupied space. Therefore he landed at normal, Illinois, if a heart full of aspirations and a head at least partially full of brains.

I, say at least partially full because there has been so much expansion since that time, room must be allowed for growth. The brains got to work and in 1913, Robert Guy received his diploma from the University High School, but the vacancy will was still not filled and pursuit was immediately instituted after the elusive Normal School Diploma. In 1914 the diligent work was rewarded. The Illinois state normal University issued a diploma of which was written dignified black letters, "Robert Guy Buzzard" his record at normal was commendable. Prominent in literature, dramatic and journalistic circles, his activities, culminated in the yearbook of 1914, of which he was editor.

The habitat of this particular kind of bird is limited to southerly climes but the city by the waters needed a specimen. Hence guy was employed to teach in the Harvard School for boys on Drexel Boulevard, Chicago. However, at the same time he is doing work in the University of Chicago and will receive the degree of S. B. With the class of 16. But the story is not complete without the following chapter. O O ………………

The preceding line when properly translated gives the full story of guys matrimonial endeavors for the benefit of his friends in old Lawrence.

Thus in death the tale of "Two Non-residents”.

And now, dear Editor, may we again express our appreciation of your news the paper, and the part of the press is doing to "boost" Sumner and old Lawrence.

Very truly yours,Robert Guy BuzzardHarry Lathrop

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Clapham, New MexicoJanuary 25, 1915Editor Press:

We think our “Old Times Issue" a capital idea and hope to see many interesting letters from our old friends and acquaintances.

After almost 4 years residence in Sumner, we left there in May 1911, came to Union County, New Mexico, and move that wants to our claim, or Homestead, a 320 acres. One which we made final proof and received our patent timber 1914.

Homesteading is no joke. It's real life. And we are better off physically for having gone through with it. The children are healthy and robust and have profited by their experiences in the great new western country.

Carroll, our oldest boy is attending business college in Denver, Colorado, Leah, our oldest daughter, is in school in Clayton, New Mexico, Robert and Hazel go to our country school, while J. C. and Anna and little Carrie run the ranch, look after the cows, pigs and poultry, and enjoy western life on the Prairie.

Those of you who are reading "The Prairie Wife" in the Saturday evening Post, will get a glimpse of actual western life, or homemaking, away out on the Prairie among the coyotes, Jack rabbits, range cattle, etc.

Duty call us and we came, and are glad we did. We expect to stay in the grand new state,"New Mexico." The boys have killed eagle, wildcat, coyote, learn to ride pitching broncos, and talk spanish.

We raised an enormous feed crop also corn and maize.

This section of the country, 15 years ago was considered as only a grazing country, has developed into a garden spot, and all without irrigation.

With kind regards to Sumner friends.J. C. Caldwell and family-------------

Biographical Note:

---------(James Chalmers Caldwell)Biographical Note:James Chalmers Caldwell, was the son of David A. and Elizabeth A. Mount Caldwell and nephew of Indiana Governor Mount. He was born in Cumberland County, IL April 9, 1869, and opened a clothing store in Neoga IL in 1899. Selling his business there, he spent a year in the West, but in the fall of 1900 returned to Neoga, and established another store. In 1907 he went into partnership with his brother Frank R Caldwell establishing a clothing business in Sumner. The brothers then opened a branch in Odin, Marion Co, IL. On March 13, 1895 James married Anna R Kimery, daughter of A. W. Kimery, a veteran of the Civil War. James and Mary had four children when they lived in Sumner, Carroll, Leah, Robert and Hazel.

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(D F Cooper)

David F. Cooper Biographical Note:David Frazee was the son of James and Lucinda Allen Cooper. At the age of 12 years he moved with his parents to Indiana where they located 2 miles west of Hillsboro. He lived there until the outbreak of the Civil War when he and four brothers, John, Marion, Carey and Henry enlisted in the Union army, in August 1861. David served for three years and six months, or until the end of the war as a member of Co. H ,2nd New York Calvary, known as the "Harris Light Cavalry." He entered as a private and was a corporal upon release. Shortly after his marriage to Mary Ellis in 1869, he and his bride established a home on a farm in Lawrence County, Illinois where they spent about 40 years, or until their children were all married. D.F. Cooper was a charter member of the Free Methodist church at New Hope and played a prominent part in its establishment. In 1908, "Uncle Dave" and "Aunt Mary," as they were affectionately called, moved to the scene of their earlier life in Indiana near Waynetown where they spent their declining years.The tragic death of his wife in 1923 was a blow, the effects from which he never recovered. He could never speak of it afterward without deep emotion. He departed this life November 2, 1928 aged 97 years, 5 months and 6 days at Hillsboro, Indiana. Editor’s Note: David Frazee Cooper’s wife wrote a letter to the Press in 1919.Annotation:

Egypt was a name sometimes given to southern Illinois.

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Waynetown, Indiana

January 7, 1915

To the Press and good people of Lawrence County, (Lukin Township not excepted) Greetings:

I will pin a few thoughts concerning my past history, not to have my voice heard on the streets: but that I might encourage some tempest-tossed traveler on life's tempestuous sea to the celestial city.

I was born in Delaware County, Ohio, May 27, 1841. Moved to Fountain County, Indiana in 1854. Joined the Army August 3, 1861, served in the Army of the Potomac, second New York Calvary, Company H. At the end of 37 months, I got an honorable discharge and returned home. Took up the occupation of a farmer which I followed for four years in Fountain and Warren counties. At the end of that time, I had three plugs of horses and about $700.

On hearing of the wonderful crops of corn that were raised down in Egypt, I determined to marry me a wife and go down to take possession of some of it’s fertile soil, so on the 25th day of February 1869, I married a young woman one year my junior by the name of Mary R. Ellis and about the 26th of April, 1869, we loaded up our little effects and started for our new home, which I had already purchased on Lukin Prairie, Lukin township, Lawrence County Illinois, seven miles southeast of Sumner. The place consisted of 40 acres. Six years later I purchased 80 acres out on the public highway leading south east from Sumner to Mt. Carmel where I lived 40 years.

At the end of that time I sold part of my possessions and bought 30 acres 3 1/2 miles south of Waynetown and eight miles west of Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana, where we lived six years.

I have made two flying trips down to the old homestead, partly on business. This fall we concluded we would both go back, wife and I, and have a good visit. We made our arrangements and started the 27th of October and landed at Jno. Bell’s in St. Francisville that night at eight o'clock. The next day I met my old friend and neighbor, W. H. Hazelton in town, who autoed us out to my son-in-law's, J. A. Price’s. Saturday we drove to Bridgeport, to visit our son and wife, A.P. and Jas. F. Cooper and families.

Being Halloween Eve, you may know that pandemonium had full sway in town, and while I was just across the alley, helping Harley Schrader with a sick horse, some of the kids cabbaged my buggy and ran it down in the business part of town, and I suppose fired it around about half the night, and then drew it up as near Clay Seed’s north kitchen door as possible, where Jim Cooper found it Sunday morning about eight o'clock. I will say that we were very thankful that we got off as well as we did. We had to hustle up a little, to make up for lost time, and by making a forced drive, we arrived at Olive Branch just as the young minister began his sermon, and I will say there was more heart spirit in the sermon that I have listened to in six years here in Wayne Township. Another commendable feature was that they haven't got the spiritual lumbage so bad but they can kneel down before the Almighty. Romans 14:11 Philippians 2:9-11. We were invited around the altar and after prayer and a word of exhortation, we sang a hymn, and a shake of hands and were dismissed.

We were entertained at dinner by C. E. Corrie and wife. The Lord bless them in their afflictions. We then drove to J. A. Price’s and at night hitched to the spring wagon and drove to the Bethlehem church, to a prayer and social meeting, which was well attended, and it seemed that all enjoyed it. I'm sure I enjoyed the meeting wonderfully. It was led by G. W. Prout. I noticed they are not removing the old landmarks H.Yelch, Jas. Hull, Isaac Wright, Clay Smith, Wm Brian, E Hill, and I cannot tell how many more.

which our fathers have set, but are willing to bow the knee to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ Proverbs 7:19.

On Friday we drove to Sumner where I had not been for six years. and met several of my old friends among whom was the editor and ex editor of the Press. Barnes brothers, Jno. Westall, J.A. Barekman, , Jones brothers, Dr Dale, B. F. Lent, H.Yelch, Jas. Hull, Isaac Wright, Clay Smith, Wm Brian, E Hill, and I cannot tell how many more.

On Monday we went to a funeral at the O'Donnell cemetery and Tuesday a funeral at Bethel in the morning and from there to St. Francisville, where we attended prayer meeting at the F. M. Church, so you may know that we met a goodly number of our Egyptian friends, and I will add that it was a heart visit from start to finish. We started home Wednesday morning via Vincennes, Terre Haute and Crawfordsville, and landed home at six o'clock in the evening in time to attend the last service of a protracted meeting within a half a quarter from our door.

We have four children, Cora L Price of Lawrence; second Sherman E Cooper, of Kobe, Japan, has been absent nine years as missionary, will be home this summer if the Lord wills; third Charles M. Bell, Wanatchee, Washington; the fourth Albert Ivan Cooper, of Lawrence County.

My oldest grandson, David E. Bell came in from Washington on Thanksgiving day to spend the winter.

I was never much of a politician but I did consent to let the Lukinites use my name once in order to elect another man, but they counted out the votes, I was 27 votes ahead of the whole bunch, so the last four years of my stay in Illinois I was Justice of the Peace, and I kept it all right, I guess.

Well Mr. Editor, I have just given you a small sketch of the facts asked for or a part of them and as this is my first venture as a correspondent, I think I have done fairly well. If all the absentees write as much as I have I think it will be up to you instead of us. If I live to the 27th day of May, I will be 74 years old, and in fair health.

D. F. Cooper-------------

Bone Gap, Illinois

January 30, 1915

Editor Press:

A few words for your February 11 edition, if it is not too late.

I am the youngest son of Andrew and Elizabeth Corrie, who were among the early settlers of Lawrence County. I was born in Lukin Township on the farm now owned by James Kelsey. I married one of Christy Township's girls, Miss Clara Huston, of southwest Sumner, and we lived in Lukin about 35 years and before going any further will say there is some of the best people in Lukin of any place in the world. About 22 years ago we took a foolish notion to leave the farm and drifted down to Edwards County and settled in Bone Gap, the garden spot of the world, and started in the furniture and undertaking business. We have only one child, (a girl). And she plays the part of embalmer, and to show you how close we have stuck to business I have not had a clerk a day for 22 years.

Lawrence County and especially Lukin township's people will always have a warm spot in my heart.

Thomas E. Corrie

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Biographical Note:

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(Thomas E Corrie)

Biographical Note:

Thomas’s father, Andrew was born in Scotland. Thomas was born in 1855. The daughter he refers to in this letter was Nellie born about 1886. Thomas, age 74, still owned the furniture store in 1930.

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(Kent Cunningham)

Biographical Note:

Kent N. Cunningham was the brother of E. Coen Cunningham, the popular Lawrence County Superintendent of Schools in the 1920-30’s. He was the son of Silas and Laura E Cunninghaom , born Sept 1891. Without this letter a family genealogist would not know why Kent had registered for the WWI draft in Little Rock, ARK on June 5, 1917 because both the 1910 and 1920 census show him as being a resident of Lukin township, Lawrence Co. In fact both he and Grace died in Lawrence Co, and are buried in the Lawrenceville Cemetery. His employment as a loan agent for J R Hopkins in Little Rock would be undiscovered. His wife wrote an interesting letter for the 1916 edition of the Pink Letters.

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Little Rock, Arkansas

January 16th 1915

Dear Editor:

I will write a few lines for the non-resident issue of the Press for2015.

My wife, Grace (Daily) Cunningham and I formally were residents of Lukin Township, near Bethlehem Church, both having been born and raised there. We left there about three years ago and came to Little Rock, Arkansas where we now live. We like our southern home and friends fine especially our "darkey" friends. I am employed by a loan broker having been with the company one and one half years. We take the Press and enjoy reading it even better than when we were in Lawrence County.

Yours very truly,

Kent Cunningham

1147 Rock Street

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Campbell, MissouriJanuary 20, 1915Editor Press:As I am a wanderer and was a native of Sumner will try and respond to your request.

20 years ago I moved to northeast Missouri and lived there 13 years. During that time lost my husband and our child. I then moved to California, lived there five years, in and near Bakersfield, and spent two winters in Los Angeles. I have six sons, three in California, one in Texas, two in Oklahoma, two daughters in Campbell, Missouri where I make my home. I have made a number of visits to my first home and still have many relatives and friends that hold a dear place in my memory.

Wishing all many happy years and with great desire to see all and dear old Sumner again, I am,Yours very truly,Mrs. Leati Jennings Donnelly-------------Cincinnati, OhioJanuary 14, 1915Editor Press:You deserve hearty congratulations for the thought which prompted you to publish the non-resident issue of the Press. There are, no doubt, a host of Sumnerites, who like myself, take a keen delight in reading of the exploits of Sumner sons and daughters though it has been 12 years since I left Sumner. I have always spent my summer vacations there and my family and I have never failed during one of those years to eat Christmas dinner there at the home of my parents. We live in Walnut Hills one of Cincinnati's oldest and most beautiful hilltop suburbs. Cincinnati, called the Queen City of the West, has many advantages not to be found in more populous cities. It now boasts of possessing the tallest and handsomest office building, which is 34 stories high. The University of Cincinnati, a city institution is considered by prominent educators as a model municipal University.

There are many other advantages and valuable assets that I might mention, but which would only serve to confirm the opinion in the minds of those who read this, that Cincinnati is just another one of those great rushing cities where men are swallowed up in the world of industry, like towns and cities in many states. My business, though thriving, is never placed above good fellowship. My memories oft return to Sumner’s trim streets and pleasant homes, its radiant firesides and happy faces I have found no place yet to compare with that sunny spot in southern Illinois that we love and call Sumner.

With best wishes to you and your readers for a successful year, I remain,

Yours very truly,

G. R. Dunphy

-------------Danville, IllinoisFebruary 7, 1915Editor Press:

I see you would like to hear from all who have made their home in Sumner and has I am one, I will drop you a line.

I have lived at several different places since I left Sumner but have found none that I like better or had more friends.

I usually stop when passing through the town, but there are so many of the dear faces gone that it does not seem like home to me anymore.

I now make my home with my daughter, Mattie Webb, and when any of my friends are in the city of Danville they will find me at 228 Cunningham Avenue or I shall be pleased to see them.

Respectfully,Jenny Foster-------------Golden Gate, IllinoisJanuary 15, 1915Dear Sirs:

In compliance to your request of non-residents, who once made old Lawrence County their home, (I) will endeavor to write a few words in regard to family and self.

I am the eldest son of the late Bascom French, Sr. (better known in Lawrence County as Polk French) and Margaret A. French. I was born in the year 1869, in Lukin Township, 4 1/2 mile south of Sumner, on the Sumner and Lancaster Road. I lived there with parents until the year 1890, when I became united in marriage to Anna Hillis, the daughter of the late Joseph Hillis also of Lukin Township. We then moved to Christy Township about four miles southwest of Sumner, lived there until the year 1892, when we moved to Belmont, Illinois Wabash County at which time engaged in the grain and milling business with my father, who had moved to Golden Gate, Illinois, Wayne County, where we purchased an elevator and we are still engaged in the grain, feed and livestock business.

We feel very thankful to our Maker, as we have been blessed with good health and prosperity all these years.

Biographical Note:

Biographical Note:

(Warren K. Gibney)

Biographical Note:

Warren K. Gibney was the son of Henry H and Melencia (Files) Gibney of Petty Township, Lawrence Co. Warren’s grandmother of English descent and was a cousin of Sir Mathew Hale, Chief Justice of Kings Bench. Warren was about 52 years old when he wrote this letter. His wife was the daughter of Caleb Hoopes, the postmaster in Sumner in 1880. Warren and Martha were married in Lawrence County August 22, 1886 so even though he said in this letter that he left Petty township in 1885 he returned to Lawrence county to take a wife.

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Our family consists of two boys and three girls, ranging from 23 to 5 years old. Guy C., our oldest son is in medical school; Herschel our next son, is engaged in business with me. The girls younger at home.

A word to our old schoolmates, friends and relatives. We quite often think of you, and assure you it would be a pleasure to take you by the good right hand for a shake, however we hope to meet you at some future time as we hold old Lawrence County very dear, and expect to call on our friends and relatives from time to time and should any of you ever pass this way don't fail to call on us.

New Mr. Editor, a word about the Press, the Sumner Press is the first paper that I have recollections of reading when but a boy. My father was one of the old subscribers of the Press, and we have had this paper in our home ever since, and must say it has always been a welcome visitor.

We wish the new owners success and hope to see the Press retained its standard as a newspaper and in fact be the leading paper of southern Illinois.

Yours very truly,

C. FrenchBetter known to some of our school mates as Dick.-------------Kansas City, KansasJanuary 24, 1915Editor Press:I was born in Lawrence County, one mile west of Sumner. My father was Philo Bell, who lived there nearly all his life. My maiden name was Emily Bell and I married Almond W. French, who died four years ago in Oklahoma. Since that time I have lived in Kansas City, Kansas. I will enjoy reading this special edition of the Press.Emily B. French------------Hutchinson, Kansa January 18, 1915Editor Press:

I am located in the great salt city of Kansas.

I left Petty Township in 1885, going to Des Moines, Iowa, or I've lived for 16 years. Went from there to West Plains, Missouri, then to Kansas, or I have been for the last nine years.

I am employed by Rock Island Railroad as locomotive engineer. My wife was formally Mattie Hoopes, of Sumner and known by all the old residence there.

Warren K. Gibney346 East B------------

East St. Louis, Illinois

January 18, 1915

Gentlemen:

For your special non-resident issue to be published February 11, I would like to have the following few lines published, that my friends, though still residing in Lawrence County and elsewhere may still know that I am numbered among the living.

I, Mary Ann Diver, daughter of John and Nellie Diver, (Mrs. Nellie O’Donnell), was born in Lawrence County on a farm three miles southeast of Sumner, attended Clark school with brother John Diver, now residing in Bridgeport Married Jas. Goff, employed by the O. & M. railroad, now B. & O. Southwest Railroad in 1880. One year later Mr. Goff was transferred to East St. Louis and I have resided here ever since. I am mother of seven children, five living, W. J. Goff, with Morris and Company married Miss M. Kallihan, Nellie M. Married Mr. J. H. Nueble, manager market Morris and Company, Kathryn M. married Mr. M. C. Reis, general manager East St. Louis Lumber Company, Alice M. married W. J. Kenney, manager M.W. Warren and Company of St. Louis, Thomas D. Goff, single all residing any St. Louis. Also grandmother of 18 grandchildren, including two pairs of twins all living.

Yours truly,

Mrs. James Goff

522 North 7th Street------------

(Mrs. James Goff)

Biographic Note:

Mary Ann Diver married James Goff June 25, 1878 in Lawrence county.

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(Daniel Thomas Gordon)Biographical Note:

Daniel Thomas Gordon married Mary E Moore in Lawrence county July 8, 1866. Their daughter that died was Ada N who was born 1868. D.T. fails to mention that the last four daughters, are two sets of twins born 4 years apart. (The 1920 census appears to agree with his get rich quick idea, because he is not working and owns his farm outright, but whether it was the ginseng garden which provided his wealth we do not know. Beginning in 1912 ginseng was in high demand in China, and the Jesuits of Canada began buying it from producers, and exporting it. )

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Janesville, Illinois

January 22, 1915

Dear Friends:

I'm a reader of the Sumner Press and will say we are well pleased with it. I made the acquaintance of the editor many years ago when he ran the Toledo Democrat and know him to be a Christian gentleman.

In the year 1872, month of November, I moved with my wife and three children-two boys and one girl to a farm in the north-central part of Cumberland County, near the old ancient village of Johnstown, in said County. To us were born five more children, all-girls, eight children all told. Our first one, a girl, died in her 17th year, rest all married except one, and all live in the greater state in the union-Illinois.

I have farmed, sold goods, bought hogs and grain, stock, sold real estate, ran a livery barn, have been in the insurance business and now raising pure bred ringlet barred Plymouth Rock birds and for a sideline. I have a ginseng garden with 30,000 plants and expect to get rich.

If I see this in the Pink Issue of the Press I may come again.

D. T. Gordon

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Kearney, Nebraska

January 22, 1915

Dear Readers of Press:

I am glad for this opportunity of writing a few lines to so many at one time. Think we ought to congratulate the editor for this privilege.

I hesitated to write at first as we lived on the boundary line of Lawrence on Richland side but Sumner was our town just the same and we thought this too good to miss.

It was five years last August since we left Sumner for the West. Must say the Lord has been wonderously good to us, giving us health to enjoy about 360 sunshine days (more or less) out of each year, making life worthwhile living as all Nebraskans enjoy.

Time has passed so rapidly only seems as a dream. We often think of the good times also that we have spent on the East side of the Mississippi. I am planning for a visit at the old home about July 1915, so Boosters of Sumner keep up your good work and plan to have a good time at Sumner, July 4, as I will enjoy seeing you all.

Respectfully yours

Ida (Kimmell) Haynes

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Cassville, Missouri

January 24, 1915

Sumner Press:

I see in your paper of recent date a request for old settlers of Lawrence and Richland counties to write a short article of the early settlements of Sumner and surrounding country as it was in early days. I can give a partial history as I now remember it from 1849 up to 1879.

The country since then I presume, has gone through many changes that I know nothing of. In 1840 my father and family moved from Coles County to Lawrence County and came to where Sumner now is but at that time it was a cornfield owned by old Uncle Benjamin Sumner. I was at the time 11 years old, having been born in 1829. I grew to manhood in the neighborhood of Sumner, Hadley and Claremont and knew nearly every mile around, but the boys and young men I associated with in those days have grown old, like myself, if they are living. Most of the old citizens have long passed away.

There were the Christy's, Clubbs, Sumner's, Frenchs, Hillises, Leathers, Laws, Conours and numbers of others I could mention, but space won’t permit it this time.

In 1850 I and Miss Polly Smith were married and if we lived till next Friday the 29th we can celebrate our 65th marriage anniversary. We have had seven children born to us, six now living. We have 37 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. My wife is relative to the Sumner's, Laws, and Basden's, being an own cousin of one of your

(Ida Kimmel Haynes)

Biographical Note:

Ida Kimmel was born Feb 1880, the daughter of Mathias and Doretha Haynes. Doretha had been born in Prussia. Ida married William Haynes Feb 27, 1898 in Richland Co. According to the 1910 census in Kearney Co, Nebraska she was widowed.

Editor’s Note: Her son Lee, then 13 years old, wrote a letter for the 1916 Pink Letter Edition of the Sumner Press, and her daughter Pearl wrote a wonderful poem for the 1918 edition. Ida wrote again on January 27, 1917. Her address was 124 30 Street Avenue B Kearney, Nebraska. After giving credit to the past year for a year well spent, and having blessed the family of four with health, she continues: We have had the pleasure of having my only brother, Raymond H Kimmel here with us this winter. He is on a farm down near Poole, Nebraska, and likes this country fine. He had typhoid fever while in Oklahoma just before coming here, but has gained and added weight since here and enjoying good health. The children are well, going to school, and doing well in school work.”

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(C.W. Higganbotham)

Biographical Note:

Della married Thad C Hollingsworth, a 37 yr old bachelor twenty years her senior sometime between 1900 and 1910 and moved to Knox County. Thad’s brothers and two nephews were living with the newly weds in 1910, but by 1920, they had moved next door.

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Biographical Note:

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(Mrs. S.E. Eckenrode and M.M Hoopes)

Biographical Note:

Sarah Elizabeth Eckenrode age, 61 was widowed and had her own income at the time of this letter. In 1910 her sister, Margaret M was living with Sarah in Sumner and working as a bookkeeper for the Thomas F. Hoopes mercantile establishment. Margaret had also taught in Sumner public school, acted as assistant postmaster for her father, and was later connected with the W.S. Hoopes Bookstore. Their brother, William S. another child of Caleb and Margaret E Denison Hoopes, was living in Springfield, and selling insurance for the “Etna Co.” Apparently the two sisters moved to Springfield next door to him, but after an extended illness Margaret passed away at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield on Aug 19, 1918 at almost 58 years of age. By 1920 Sarah was living with her brother William and his family.

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towns ladies, Mrs. Martha J. Anderson, and I being a cousin of C. H. Gordon, of Sumner and Mrs. Helen Turner.

I moved from Illinois to northwest Kansas in 1879. In 1904 came to Barry County Missouri where the climate is much more mild. We are enjoying very good health for old people, 79 and 85 years old.

C.W. Higganbotham

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Bruceville, Indiana

January 30, 1915

Readers of the Press:

Perhaps it might be of interest to you to know something of my whereabouts, too, along with the many other "wanderers". I have not wandered very far however, being located on a farm in Knox County, Indiana 11 miles northeast of Vincennes and two miles northeast of Bruceville. Our farm is rolling and its yields are very satisfactory. Our beautiful pikes winding around the bluegrass hills produce a very picturesque scene indeed and altogether I think as is natural for us all, that I have the very best home on earth.

However, I have a warm spot in my heart for old Lawrence County, the place of my birth and will always want the Sumner Press to be a weekly visitor at our home.

Very truly,

Della Perkins Hollingsworth

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Springfield, Illinois

January 13, 1915

Mr. Editor:

Your request for a letter from the people who have moved away from their old home town seems to apply to us as we have been away so short a time that we have hardly learned to say that it is not our home.

It may be that some of our friends have not yet missed us and it would be well to tell them we are pleasantly located at 223 E. Lawrence Avenue in this city and have the State House, Governor's Mansion and other important buildings in our neighborhood, also in easy walking distance of the business section and four or five of the leading churches are quite near us. Our brother, W. S. Hoopes, living next door to us, makes it very pleasant and homelike. We shall be glad to see any and all of our friends when they come to the city. With kind regards to all and Press readers.

Very respectfully,

Mrs. S. E. Eckenrode

M. M. Hoopes

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Dana, Illinois

January 11, 1915

Editor Press:

I came to Dana in 1889 from Chauncey, Illinois, worked for my brother until 1910, when he sold out and moved to Lewiston, Idaho. I am doing well, have a shop 22 by 50 with shed 16 by 50. Have12 different machines run by gas engine making most all the house trimmings I use. Am finishing an 11 room house at present. Have brick on ground for basement of a 12 room house for my wife and self. We live on Pekin branch of the Santa Fe which crosses I.C. at Minonk, six miles southwest of here, have passenger each way from Chicago to Pekin, Illinois.

The business square of our village was burned last July, the fire originated inthe meat shop, burned two dry goods stores and grocers, hardware and machine shed, Lodge Hall, poolroom, restaurant, Opera Hall, barbershop, doctor’s office and residence, farmer’s elevator and grain with offices and all their machine sheds.

Two dry goods stores rebuilt last fall of brick, poolroom and restaurant of concrete, more will rebuild this spring

Yours truly,

George I. Hughes

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West Salem, Illinois

January 15, 1915

Dear Press Editor:

Having received through the columns of your paper, a request here from Ex Lawrence County residents we will contribute our mite, having been a resident of old Lawrence in Petty Township for 40 years and spent many happy days at grandfather Samuel Smith's farm now my cousins Foss Smith, where there assembled parents, aunts and uncles, while we children enjoyed ourselves in our hearts content:

In Orchard and Meadow

And deep tangled wild wood

And every loved spot

Which our infancy knew

But alas times have changed. We realize we are older and many of our friends and schoolmates as well as our own, dear kindred are sleeping in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, and recollections only bring sad memories. We have been residing in our own home in Edwards County for most four years, surrounded by friends, neighbors and our children both of whom are with us yet. Robert has chosen farming as his occupation while Rachel is doing very well with her studies in music. This leaves us with reasonable health and all joined in sending best wishes to the Press and its readers.

Very truly,

Annie Hardacre Irish

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(George I. Hughes)

Biographical Note:

George was the son of Joseph C and Mary A Hughes. Joseph was an undertaker in Petty Township when George was a small boy. George married Elizabeth McHenry in LaSalle Co, IL in 1900. When this letter was written George and Elizabeth were both 42 years of age, with no children.

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(Annie Hardacre Irish)

Biographical Note:

Annie Z Hardacre married James Irish in 1882 in Lawrence co, Robert A was born in 1894 and Rachel in 1904. Annie’s parents were Robert M and Minerva Hardacre.

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Biographical Note:

Waldo, Kansas

January 13, 1915

Dear Friends:

I am glad that our editor has given me this opportunity of writing to you. Some of you I have not seen for years and perhaps I may never see some of you anymore this side of heaven.

The old home place where I was born and raised to seven miles southeast of Sumner and Lukin Township, Lawrence County.

The old schoolhouse where I spent so many happy days with schoolmates and teacher is known as "Old White Oak," near my old home.

My mind often goes back to my school days in the many happy times I had with old playmates, as we played our childhood games. I taught several terms of school and Lawrence Wabash counties.

In 1900 I was married to C. W. Ivie, and in the fall of 1905 we started in the ministry. Since that time we have had many happy and refreshing times in the service. We have seen many souls brought into the kingdom.

We served charges in Olney and Mt. Carmel districts in southern Illinois conference and in the fall of 1912 we transferred to the northwest Kansas conference where we are still laboring.

The Lord has wonderfully blessed us in his service and his crowning our efforts with great success and into him alone we give the glory. He is giving us the desire of our hearts and see many souls saved and Christian people made stronger by his power.

My maiden name was Addie Wright and my father's name was Henry Wright and he is still living on the old farm where my mother was raised and she, too, is still living, for which I am very grateful.

I am looking forward with great anticipation to the reading of the many different letters from friends that I have not seen for several years, and although we cannot be gathered together in every union face-to-face, we will be in a reunion of thought at least. I often longed to be back in Illinois and visit old friends again.

May God's blessing be upon all of you where ever you may be is my prayer.

Mrs. Addie Wright Ivie

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Flora, Illinois

January 21, 1915

Dear Sir:

There is little that I can say that would be of interest to your readers of the "Pink Press" except that it is a pleasure for me to state that Sumner is still near and dear to me and will always be thought of as home. I have lived in, and visited many towns since my boyhood days and none of them, in my mind, rank so high as Sumner in moral and social standing and as a trade center one gets full value for every dollar expended.

My wife, three sons, aged 18, 17 and 9 respectfully and myself are enjoying good health. I am still in the railroad business.

Yours truly,

McMerrell B. Judy

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Des Moines, Iowa

January 13, 1915

Editor Press Sumner Illinois

Dear Sir:

Now here comes Warren Kilgore to the Press reunion, left Sumner in the fall of 91, but returned to Lawrence County and lived in Lawrenceville, where he was married to Miss Bessie Salter of the same town in 98. In the spring of 99 he went to Des Moines Iowa where soon after he became a registered pharmacist. He has owned and conducted a drugstore there for almost 14 years.

Two children have been born to him B. Frank, age 15 now a freshman in East High School, a daughter, Louise age 12.

The Carnegie medal for bravery has never been awarded him neither has he made a million dollars in high finance. This drugstore is not the largest in the city and is located in a suburb where it is a convenient waiting place for way faring people on wintry days and in summer a place where the populace go to quench their thirst and cool themselves at the soda fountain. He is much the same one that left Sumner. The long hours in the drugstore have not taken from him his enjoyment of a good laugh and he is yet ready to see the ludicrous and most any incident.

Old home friends of this should call on him when in Des Moines at 1211 S. East sixth Street picture postal cards answered.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Peasley, who taught school in Sumner in 84 and 85 are residents of the Des Moines, where Mr. Peasley is a consulting lawyer.

J. Kent Barnesa former Sumner boy, also resides in the Des Moines holding a position with one of the large insurance companies for which Des Moines is noted. J. Jones, former Lawrence County school teacher and L. A. Morgan formerly city marshal of Lawrenceville are also Des Moines Iowa residents.

Yours truly

W. G. Kilgore

1211 South East Sixth Street

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Noble, Illinois

February 8, 1915

Mr. Editor:

I will write to the Pink Press. I used to live in Lawrence County. I came to Lawrence with my parents in the year of 1900, at the age of five and remained there eight years.

Moved to Wayne County and at the age of 17 was married to B. H. Kincaid, of Mt. Erie at Lawrenceville.

We are farmers and owned a small farm of 50 acres southeast of noble 11 miles in Wayne County on Forest Ridge. We have two children both girls. My maiden name was Laura Wells, my parents were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wells, living northwest of Bridgeport.

Wishing the Pink Press a success.

I'll close,

Mrs. Laura Kinkade

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Biographical Note:

Biographical Note:

Urbana, Illinois

January 18, 1915

Editor Press:

Three years ago last September, when our wedding day, we severed our connections with old Lawrence. I hope to that time had been in southeastern Petty Township. My wife is the daughter of E. S. McCally, of north Christy. We went to Westfield and lived there three years during which time I attended Westfield College. At Westfield our boy, George Edward, now 21 months old, came to live with us. He is a bright, healthy lad, just big enough to make things interesting.

Last fall we sold out in Westfield and moved to Urbana. I am doing work in the College of Liberal Arts and Science of the state University expect to make geology my major. If all goes well I shall finish my course here in 1917. The University is certainly a great institution and is destined to become much greater within the next 10 years if all plans of the present are carried out. Two new buildings are now in process of construction, one of which, an addition to the present chemistry building will make, so it is said, the best chemistry building in the world. This one department requires a faculty fifty-four.

We see a count in the Press of several Lawrence County people who live in Urbana or Champagne but had never met them here, not having been equated with them at home. There are several here in school among whom are Ross Petty, of Sumner the star football player, Mac Leach, of Bridgeport, Ralph Spencer, of Lawrenceville and Levitt Kimmell, of Chauncey.

Wife takes music lessons, looks after the boy, and keeps a home going while I go to school. We like the place very well and enjoy the work and life in general. Although all this is true we are all glad when Christmas time comes and we can speak back to shake hands with friends in old Lawrence once more to stick our feet under fathers table.

William, Nora

and George Edward Lathrop

305 South Grove Street

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Lamanda Park, California

January 19, 1915

To the Editor of the Press:

I was born in Crawford County Illinois, August 26, 1900, and remained there until 11 years of age when I moved to Lamanda Park, California where we have lived the last three years.

Lamanda Park is three miles east of Pasadena. Streetcars and jitney buses run within 100 yards of our house, which conveyances we could step into any time to go to Pasadena for five cents. My mother and two sisters work in the packing house packing oranges and lemons, and my papa is a Teamster. I go to school.

California is a beautiful place, roses bloom the year round. But for all that, I like Illinois and the good old farm life, where I enjoyed milking the cows, feeding the chickens and gathering the eggs, in the summer time, and in the winter setting rabbit traps, throwing snowballs and skating on the ice. I enjoyed those things much better than living in a yard, where there are six houses besides our own, scarcely room to turn around.

As this is my first attempt and if the wastebasket does not catch this, I may try again sometime.

Nellie Legg

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Metropolis, Illinois

January 10, 1915

Gentlemen:

I have noticed you expected to turn out an edition of the Press composed, as nearly as possible, of letters from former residents of Sumner I do not know of anything to tell our many friends and relatives of interest only I am still running a flour mill, but as we have been here 17 years, must begin to think about getting superannuated. Our only living son, Euerdge, is married and living at Centralia Illinois, is traveling for the Huttigs Sash and Door Works, of St. Louis. He is “making good.” Our daughter's Zazel, is completing her fourth year at Eureka College from which she will graduate next June. I have been a subscriber to the Sumner Press since its first issue by W. E. Mock about the year 1876. It has been sent me at Bridgeport and Lawrenceville Illinois, Vincennes, Petersburg, Dillsborough, Indianapolis and Franklin, Indiana, then for something over four years got it through the post office at Sumner. For the last 16 or 17 years I have received the paper here.

We still own property in Sumner and expect if I do not die in harness to fix it up or build on the lot and come "home" to Sumner to finish out the time I have to stay.

Yours respectfully,

L. W. Lent

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West Salem, Illinois

January 21, 1915

To the Editor Press:

Will write a few lines for special edition of the Sumner Press. I am always glad to see my old home paper.

Biographical Note:

---------

(L. W. Lent)

Editors Note:

Superannuated:

Retired with a pension

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Biographical Note:

I was a resident of Sumner for 43 years. My father, Caleb Hoopes, moved to Sumner when I was seven years old. There has been many changes. When we went there it was a very small place, no church there, we had church in the school house and big and small scholars were all in one room together and one teacher to instruct them.

All the old people who would be 80 years and more, if living, are all sleeping with the sleep that knows no awakening in the cemetery on the Hill. Mr. Clark, whose body was brought back for burial, was living there when we moved there.

My home is now West Salem Illinois, a very nice town. Have been a resident here for nine years. I visit my old home once or twice a year. While I missed many old friends who have passed away, yet I meet other friends who's familiar faces I am always glad to see.

Very respectfully,

Mrs. Molly Hoopes Mallison

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Chicago, Illinois

January 11, 1915

To the Editor:

Although I am not an “old-timer” and had no reminiscent stories of early days to offer, I wish to write a line or two, if only to wish you the best of success with the Pink Edition, which I consider a highly commendable effort. Also as I look forward to it, hoping to hear from some old friends and schoolmates whom I have lost track of, perhaps someone may be interested to know what has become of me.

I was born on what is known as the Malone farm, 3 1/2 miles southeast of Sumner and which at that time belonged to my father, William Malone.

I am now married and living in Chicago for the past seven years. Have been in the employ of Sears and Roebuck and Company.

My reminiscences are mostly of boyish pranks. In those days they raised fine watermelons in Lawrence County. I remember one time I had been to Vincennes with a load of hay. Having had no supper, on my way home I felt pretty hungry. I passed a fine patch of melons and boy-like decided to satisfy my hunger, never worrying about the right or wrong of helping myself to other people’s melons. I had just picked out a couple of fine melons and with one under each arm was proceeding to the hay rack when I heard a gun click and heard the farmer say "I've got you this time". I said "I guess you have." He then proceeded to lecture me and said, “Suppose young man, as you went along to town I had taken a bale of your hay, what you would have said, and how much would you like that?” To which I replied, "If you had been as hungry as I and wanted a bale of hay to eat, I'd have said take it and welcome." The farmer, a big, broad minded man, saw the point laughed and pick me out the finest biggest melon he could find, sending me on my way rejoicing, but with this sage advice, “Young man, when you are hungry and want a melon, go and ask for it and do not help yourself." I wonder if he will see the story and remember.

My heart always has a warm spot for Lawrence County and friends and companions there.

Wishing the Sumner Press continued success, I am

Clement E. Malone

128 South Hamilton Avenue

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Sullivan, Indiana

January 15, 1915

Dear Readers of Old Reliable:

Following the custom adopted, I now in response, say we live near Sullivan Indiana our former home was near Sumner, in Christy Township. We live in this location for about 40 years. Many friends did we gain during that period of time.

It is a great recreation for a person's mind to wander back to old home and friends.

One October 24, 1914, we bade farewell to Sumner and left for our home here. On arriving we found our friends and acquaintances from (here) greet(ed) us with hearty welcome.

Our nearest neighbors, Mr. Nesbitt's, are nice and accommodating people. He often comes to your town to buy horses.

The people here are all nice and clever people always ready to assist you, at any time.

The good ladies and sisters of this community had our house scrubbed and ready to enter. The men were ready with their wagons and teams to help unload the car. Among one of the faithful ones was Chalmer Moore. He assisted in every way he could. He met the train in his machine and took Mrs. Mathias and little Joseph Richard to his home until things could be put in order at home.

Perhaps someone would enjoy reading something about Joseph Richard, my grandson. He is in good health, growing nicely and has two teeth. He still waves bye-bye and whistles.

We like our new home fine and wish all who live near and around our old stomping ground all the success that can be had.

For fear I might worry someone with my words, I will stop my pen.

Yours truly,

J. A. Marley and family

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McLeansboro, Illinois

R. F. D. No. 8

January 20, 1915

Mr. Wood:

At your request I will write you a few lines.

My parents moved from Ohio to Illinois. There were eight children of us, five of whom are living yet. I was 11 years old when we moved in the year of 1853. We crossed the river at Russellville on a ferry boat, came to Lawrenceville. It was not much of a town then. Came through Bridgeport. There was but one business house in the town then. Mr. Thorne had a store there. The O. & M. was graded and but the trains did not run until 1854. We settled five miles south, one half mile west of Sumner, in Lukin Township. About that time Sumner started up. In 1854 was a very dry year. That year was the first I ever heard of Cinch bugs. There were plenty of them that year. School and meeting houses were few and far between those days. Our circuit preacher lived in Lawrenceville. He would get around once a month in Sumner. He would preach one weekday in winter at night. We had three months school in the winter. I could not go but part of the time.

Biographical Note:

Biographical Note:

Mr. Edmondson (unreadable). Buckhorn schoolhouse was built in 1855, the year Buchanan was elected president. I often wonder how many of the scholars are still living that started to school that year. The last I noticed to go was Mr. B. L. Cunningham.

My first vote for president was for General George B. McClellan in the year of 1864. I, with my wife and my brother, Jackson and family, left Lawrence County in the year of 1881, another settled in dry year. Settled in Hamilton County where we have lived ever since.

Well, I expect I have made my letter too long already. Pick out what you want, though the rest in the waste basket.

George W. Martin

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Fruita, Colorado

January 11, 1915

The Sumner Press:

I noticed in the last issue of your valuable paper your intention to issue what you have pleased to call space "A non-resident Issue" of your paper, requesting those of us that have left dear old Lawrence County to furnish the material.

I must say that I regard the move as a wise one. I do not know that there is a person in the wide world outside of my own kin that is especially concerned about myself and wife for this constitutes the whole of our family, but I am looking forward to this issue as being peculiar interest to me.

Your instructions are to write about personal matters, one self, family, etc. This is a difficult thing for me to do but I shall endeavor to stay with the text. Mrs. McKelfresh and I were married March 17, 1897 several years later March 1904, for health reasons, we very much against their own personal feelings, tore loose from loved ones and friends and took a journey of 1500 miles landing in Grand Junction, the county seat of Mesa County, Colorado. And let me say that we regard Colorado as being in many ways one of the greatest states in the union. Having lived in this time on a farm we knew but little of city life but we very soon found out that the folks here were very similar to the ones we had left and we soon had friends by the score and really the people are much more sociable in the west and in the east.

As a boy and man on the farm I knew full well what hard work was so the first work that I secured after locating was sawing wood with a box saw and say that was real labor at least I found it so. This is my first experience at this particular kind of work. This job prove to be a short one and having some little knowledge of the Carpenter trade I soon found employment of this kind.

In December of the same year we moved 12 miles farther west, to Fruita Colorado, our present home. Here we engage in the grocery business for a little over year, but sold our interest in the business and with one summer in the mountains thinking that the high altitude would be more beautiful as it proved to be. I spent this vacation cutting logs and doing labor at a sawmill. I was not the foreman.

When I returned from the mountains, a two-story building was under construction in the town and when completed a portion of the ground floor was occupied by the First Bank of this city. I had no trouble in securing employment on the job, stayed until it was completed, or nearly so.

At this time the company offered me a job as general roustabout, flunky, I think they call it out here, and I was to spend what time I could in the bank doing what I could and learning more if I could. After a few months I was relieved as flunky and place in the bank as bookkeeper. About six years ago some resignations took place with the office force and I was made assistant cashier, which place I still hold.

We are delighted with the western country and the people. I would love to tell you something of our delightful at climate, but that has been forbidden by our good editor. Fruita is a small town hardly so large as Sumner, has plenty of churches, splendid schools, waterworks, electric lights, sewers. We have many other desirable some quite a number that are not desirable. There has never been a saloon in town, and I would have you remember that the entire state went dry last November.

As I said in the beginning we left Illinois came to Colorado with the hope that the change would benefit Mrs. McKelfresh health, and it has done so, even beyond what we expected. While it would be the joy of our lives to live with our kindred and old-time friends, but had no thought of returning soon. It is ever so much better to meet conditions as they are and not murmur. In the book we are told that "Godliness with Contentment Is Great Gain."We are here contented and happy, trying if possible to make it so worlds are still tiny bit better.

Now dear editor if you have any use for this in your special, use it, but if not just drop it in the wastebasket and let it be forgotten.

With best wishes for the Sumner Press and all this readers for a pleasant and prosperous 1915, I close,

Respectfully,

H. G. McKelfresh

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Topeka, Kansas

January 24, 1915

Editor Press:

While visiting at the home of Warren Gibney, I had the pleasure of reading the Sumner Press and talking of old times. I think it was about 1870, my father Samuel McNeely, moved to Sumner. I attended school in an old frame schoolhouse. First teacher was Thomas Stevens, later Miss Whitmore, Sallie Keene.

I have a copy of the Sumner Weekly Democrat volume 1 number 1.

Father is dead, mother living near Topeka. Since leaving Sumner have lived in several other counties in Illinois into Colorado, Texas and now Kansas.

I often think of old Illinois as the best state in the union.

Frank McNeely

517 Lime Street

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Seymour, Indiana

January 15, 1915

Mr. Editor:

In response to your request for a letter for your non-resident issue, I will attempt same and trust it will be appreciated by the readers, as I know we will certainly find great pleasure in reading their letters.

Biographical Note:

Biographical Note:

We left Sumner 12 years ago next August, having lived there 18 years, with the exception of our year spent in Olney, in the employ of S. J. Eckenrode. While living in Sumner, I was employed in the mercantile store of Marion May & Sons and I. H. Bunn. Mr. May and Mr. Bunn, excellent men, both have since gone to their reward. I accepted a position with the Buckskin Breeches Company of Evansville, and moved to Seymour, Indiana and traveled for them exclusively in Indiana territory, for 10 1/2 years, until the dissolution of that firm. I've been connected with the Bray, Robinson Curry Woolen Mills of Louisville, Kentucky with whom I hold a lucrative position.

We are truly thankful for the good things of life and prosperity, but have suffered a great loss in the death of one of our dear children, Helen, who died in San Antonio, Texas four years ago this next May, where my family spent the winter months. I also lost my good father a short time before, at the age of 85 years. To know him was to love him. My mother is living in Olney with my sister, Mrs. Jno. C. Page. She is 86 years old and enjoying very good health. She spends the summer months at Maple Shade farm near Mt. Carmel with my oldest sister Mrs. O. H. Wood Her every need is looked after my sisters, Mrs. Page and Mrs. VanAusdel. She will enjoy reading your non-resident issue so I will send her a copy.

Dora, our oldest daughter, who spent her childhood days in Sumner is still home with her mother. Ray is married and is prospering as proprietor of the Seymour Cleaning and Pressing Club. He was with me one year on the road with the Buckskin Breeches Company. Albert, our youngest is 16, and a junior in high school.

Seymour is a very progressive city of 8000, noted for its beautiful paved and shady streets, well-kept lawns and houses, excellent school buildings and ward schools, good churches and also a fine farmers club building, given to the farmers of Jackson County, for their exclusive use, by the Blish estate, in memory of Moody Shields Blish, the first farmer of Jackson County, and is kept up by the estate. Seymour is 59 miles south of Indianapolis, 55 miles north of Louisville, Kentucky, 87 miles west of Cincinnati, and 100 miles east of Vincennes Indiana. We have three railroads; also one of the best interurban roads in the state runs through here.

Thinking it would be wise to leave some space for more able writers, wish to say in conclusion, that Mrs. Milburn and family join me in very best wishes to all readers and friends far away, but not forgotten.

Our number is 516 North Ewing Street Seymour, Indiana telephone 792R. The doorbell is broken that when in the city knock and enter.

Very truly yours,

C. S. Milburn

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Olney,

Richland County, Illinois

January 13, 1915

To the Sumner Press:

I was born in Lawrence County, in Christy Township, March 9, 1855, 2 1/2 mile south of Sumner and lived on the same farm until September, 1880. Moved to Richland County and stayed until the fall of 1881, we moved back to old Lawrence and stayed until the fall of 1883, then back to Richland County. My neighbors in my boyhood days were grandfather, G. W. Johnson, Henry Bopp, Ned Heath, Mr. Collings, Thomas Turner, Briant Sumner, James French, Chancy French, Mr. A. Bailey, all of whom have since died. The first corn plow that we own father bought at Mr. T. L. Jones. The store was where George Morgan’s Hotel now stands or nearby. For the last 28 years I have been in the employee of the railroad company in Olney

Joseph A. Miller

725 South Morgan Street

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St. Louis, Missouri

January 14, 1915

L. M. Wood & Sons:

I thought some of my old friends might like to hear from me. Born in 1877, in Chauncey, Illinois my father M. R. Newman was running a general merchandise store there at the time after being in the employee of May & Bunn, at Sumner He is now living at York Illinois, Clark County, farming and doing nicely.

I am in the employee Swift & company, St. Louis, Missouri, as bookkeeper, since 1902, work four years for the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway previous to this, which was my first position after leaving school. 17 years of straight work out of my 38 years of life.

My wife and I paid a visit to my old hometown two years ago, stopping at my cousin's house, Fred Correll.

I left Chauncey in 1884, and was only back twice since then in 1889 and 1912. I lived in Sumner with my aunt and uncle, S. S. Henderson and wife for almost one year. Think that was in 1885. Uncle Henderson died at Chicago in 1909 and since then my grandfather and grandmother coder have passed away and having a family, working all the time, I do not get to make many visits to Lawrence County. Uncle Morris C. Coder, as lots of the readers know, is now stopping with me here in St. Louis.

Respectfully,

Clarence A. Newman

2769 Chonteau Avenue

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Dallas, Texas

January 13, 1915

Publisher Press:

I noticed in your newspaper that you want everybody that has “strayed away" or run away, either night or day to write a letter to the Sumner Press. Of course when you write a letter to the Sumner Press is just the same as writing to all the home folks.

Biographical Note:

Biographical Note:

You say for us to tell you where we lived. I lived up in Petty Township, on the banks of Muddy Creek near Spring Hill College. I left Illinois about 25 years ago. Of course, I was very young then I had been traveling for the Art Metal Construction Company, of Jamestown, New York will be 25 years the fifth day of this coming April. They have paid my expenses and, of course, I have eaten three times a day, and I am still on the payroll, still eating three times a day. Have traveled throughout 29 of 30 states but has spent the most of my time in Texas, and I am now almost a native Texan. Married a Texas girl and we have four little Texans, all-girls, and of course the finest girls in the world. Now five native Texans make one "Illinois sucker" stepson.

Mrs. Pepple and our girls are thinking of making a visit to Illinois’s that is providing I can borrow the money to pay the railroad fare, as you know these railroads have a habit of taking the money in advance.

I have been telling my Texas girls that I kept School at Buckhorn and Petty colleges several years. They are anxious to see the place where they would allow me to try to teach school, but I was there just the same, and those were good old days down in Lukin and up in Petty. Lots of good old spareribs and backbones and everything else good to eat and just as free as the water to Muddy Creek when there was water.

You can travel all over the world but you can't find any better people than they have in good old Lawrence County. They claim that the south is noted for his hospitality, but I tell you that can't beat the people of Lawrence County. Lots of good people down here in Texas and they have certainly treated be fine, and I haven't any complaint to make.

The Sumner Press has visited me every week for the past 25 years that means letter every week from home folks. I read it through and through and adjust his anxious to get it as when I first left home, and if I owe the Press anything send me a bill and I will remit it to your next payday. Wishing all the good people in Lawrence County and the Sumner Press, all the good things there are in store for 1915 in ever more, I am,

Yours very truly

Aaron C. Pepple

"Everyday is the Best Day"

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Former location, Claremont Township, Richland County Illinois

Present location 124 30 St. B Ave.

Bonestel, South Dakota

January 1, 1915

To the Sumner Press:

Although I was a reader of the press in my father's home four miles Southwest of Sumner, near Beulah Church, where he still resides, in the days when that paper was edited by J. A. Igler, circumstances did not permit me to be a continuous reader or subscriber but since I have been able I have been glad to read it with interest, especially news of my old friends and most of my near relatives who still live there.

I spent many years roaming about since 1882. I lived in a number of places near central Illinois, in St. Louis and southern Missouri at a few different places in South Dakota, including from Bonestel to North Dakota line, also in North Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska and a short stay in Oklahoma. I also work at different occupations, including carpenter work, mason work, almost all kinds of labor, mail carrier, and at last came back to the farm. I have been speculating on Earvy, Ohio Potatoes. I received first premium and extras at our County fair for the past two years.

I have a home here now and plenty to eat anywhere since I have made my home and Bonestel, about 15 years ago. I have not been Sumner since the first part of the year 1902. This is the best winter since I lived here.

I wonder how many readers of the press remember the old camp meeting held at John Kneppers Grove, west of the old Beulah log schoolhouse, when the men made platforms of wood covered with earth to build Hickory bark fires on for lights to light the Grove during the meeting. I was one of the boys who helped gather the bark. Well, younger people have better places of worship out. We did not sing with organs in. We used one horse to plow corn then. School was short-term. We plowed in stumps and instead of the short term of school many were compelled to take an ax and clear so the younger ones could have a better time. How many think to thank those other ones who made longer terms of school possible and also gave younger folks a chance to go to school full-time, also use modern machinery instead of stump plow with aching ribs, a grain cradle and grass scythe, they have the binder more and cultivator, all fixed up to ride upon. This is passed with the thrasher and wild turkey and the old Hagley Road through the woods to Sumner or to Andy Milligan's mill, east of town with cordwood as high as a man could reach to use.

Samuel W. Perrott

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Grand Junction, Colorado

January 20, 1915

Editor Press:

In answer to your special edition, I will write a few lines, as I was born in old Lawrence County and still have many warm friends and love for my dear old home and country back there.

I was born and raised a mile south of Lawrenceville.

My name is Isabel Henderson. I lived in Lawrence County until 1910, and then came to Delta, Colorado with my daughter, Miss Bessie Lake, for her health, but came too late and she passed to the great beyond. Then I remained here.

I married Robert Petersen, Delta, Colorado, where we had a beautiful little home and many friends.

Last February we came to Grand Junction, Colorado, as Mr. Petersens business called him here. We have made many friends here, and had met a few from Lawrence County, which are our friends there.

I will say I love the beautiful sunshine & climate of Colorado and wish all Lawrence County friends’ happiness and success.

As ever,

Mrs. Isabel Petersen

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Biographical Note:

(Theodore E. Piper)

Biographical Note:

Theodore E. Piper married Margaret E. Hillis in Richland County on May 22, 1863

Annotation:

Catamounts:

Large cat similar to puma, mountain lion, or panther

Puncheon:

A piece of broad, heavy, roughly dressed timber with one face finished flat

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West Liberty, Illinois

January 23, 1915

Dear Editor:

I was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania in 1884. In 1859 my father, Abraham Piper, mother, Uncle Robert Piper, Brother Will, and myself came in an old-fash