Scharf, J. Thomas, ed. History of Westchester County, New York, including Morrisania, Kings Bridge, and West Farms, which have been annexed to New York City, Vol. II. Philadelphia: L.E. Preston & Co., 1886.
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The latter is not always harvested in the regular way. Hogs and sheep have been found to be excellent corn harvesters. Vegetables Potatoes, or "spuds," lead all others combined in quantity and importance, although cabbage was early a commercial crop. Recently pickles ( or cucumbers ) have been grown for the Heinz people. Onions have been produced on a limited scale. They yield …
It has been the prevailing idea that this is not a fruit country. We can remember when the prospects of eastern Nebraska being a fruit country was far more discouraging than that of Morrill county. From the writer's observations and experiences many fruits are excellent producers. It will not be long before we will have canning factories .putting up strawberries, currants …
One trouble with fruit trees under irrigation is that if given all the water they can use they continue growing until late in the fall without maturing up the season's growth, and the result is the green wood winterkills. This can be overcome by proper attention to the watering. Sugar Beet Culture When II. G. Leavitt came into the North Platte valley, one of his prime purposes …
In round numbers, the county produced a quarter of a million tons of beets in 1920, for which the farmer received three million dollars, and from which the factory made about eight hundred thousand bags of refined sugar, or something like sixty-five pounds for every man. woman and child in the state. The pre-war consumption of sugar was an average of eighty pounds, but it has …
Then certain portions of the syrups that cannot be treated at the Bayard and Gering factories are sent to the Scottsbluff, Scotts Bluff county, factory, which institution has a specially constructed adjunct to the mill, called a StefBns process, by which sugar can be reduced from syrups that would otherwise not be saved. Minerals It is a fond hope, based upon seme geological …
"There are small deposits of drab colored clay in the silt of the river bed, and in below the gumbo deposit in our town soil, and this is very rich in aluminum. Besides the above mentioned clay, there are harder formations in the uplands and in the brakes. "A great possibility for some enterprise is in our deposits of white sand which is valuable in making glass for windows …
"Our exports will include the following in a short time if the right men wake up and utilize nature's gifts : "Glass for windows, bottles and tableware. "Baking soda, washing sc-da, scouring soaps and chemical cleaners made of caustic soda. Dry batteries, aluminum ware, brick, and artificial stone. "Who has the Midas touch to turn these known natural resources into gold?" The …
Recent blasting" in the construction of the government irrigation canal north toward Angora, opened up a small pocket of natural gas, which experts believe is a leak from a larger pool, perhaps some distance away. Morrill County Farm Bureau The Morrill County Farm Bureau was established in 1918. Mr. Comb was the first county agent and served three years. He then resigned and …
serum, which has now become a general practice and results have been 100%. Vaccination to prevent hog cholera in which two outbreaks started and both were checked. Many demonstrations made, advice given as to seed treatment for potatoes, wheat and oats. Some of the constructive projects have been, potatoes, variety tests, seed trials, marketing problems worked upon …
A short history of the general subject of government irrigation and the inception of the various projects in western Nebraska, and near the Wyoming border which laid the foundation for the later enterprises that have been or are being projected in Morrill county. The first irrigation in America, except by pre-historic peoples, was by the Spanish in Xew Mexico. The Mormons …
Smythe, of California ; John Hall, of Texas ; John Henry Smith, of Utah; C. E. Brainard, of Idaho; L. Bradford Prince, of New Mexico, can be looked upon as the prime movers in government irrigation. During 1891 while employed on the Omaha Bee as editor, Mr. Smythe wrote articles resulting in a state irrigation convention at Lincoln, which laid the first steps toward a National …
This bill first failed to pass, and it is possible that the attempt at national irrigation would have failed had it not been for President Roosevelt, who, from personal acquaintance, knew the needs of the west and became an ardent supporter of government irrigation. The act authorizing the present reclaimation work was approved June 17, 1902. This act places the control of …
From the receipts from public lands the L'nited States is building dams and reservoirs for the storage of water to be used in irrigation; also building canals and laterals to water the lands and owners of the lands are to pay back the money without interest, in twenty annual installments, when it will again be used to build other canals. The cost of this land itself will …
Pathfinder Dam and Reservoir The Pathfinder dam and reservoir is located about three miles below the junction of the Sweetwater with the North Platte near the old Overland Trail, and is named in honor of John C. Fremont, who was wrecked at almost this point in an attempt to float down to the Missouri. The dam is 100 feet thick at the bottom, 10 feet wide at the top, and 215 …
Just below the mouth of Whalen canyon, and about eight miles up the river from the site of old Fort Laramie, is a diversion dam of concrete 325 feet long with an extreme height of 35 feet, and from the south end of the concrete extends an earthen embankment 2,000 feet long with a maximum height of 18 feet. This check raises the water of the river about 13 feet. The interstate …
The first section of the canal lies entirely in Wyoming and is an enlargement of the W;halen Falls canal which waters some 30,000 acres under the Gary Act. The government maintains the main canal and laterals of the system. Farm units were made with the intention of giving each homesteader eighty acres of land, but the area varies greatly depending on the quality of the land …
Shareholders must be owners (or homesteaders) of land capable of being watered from the Interstate Canal, and the water stock becomes a part of and attached to the land and can thereafter be conveyed only by conveying title to the land Each stockholder will be allowed to hold as many shares of stock as acres of land, but must not exceed a total of 160 shares. The shareholder …
One big improvement vastly increased the value of land in this project in 1918 by the building of a dam across the river. This was determined at a meeting of the directors and a full representation of the different interests under the canal. The Bridgeport irrigation district covers the land under the old Belmont canal, extending from the headgate to about forty miles east and …
The men who organized the Little Bel- The dam raises the water about two feet mont Company in 1889, had the pick of all and fills the canal to running- over at any lands in the valley, and as a result the holdtime of the year when water is needed or can ings which came to the present company be used. embraced some of the best lands in the state. This cost is about five dollars …
lishing the Irrigation Age at Kearney, the « ATER ^°ntrac ' paper being, I believe, established by Wil- I , hereby agree to purchase Ham E. Smythe, later of Riverside, Califor- of the Belmont Irrigating Canal & Water nia. Carj- came to the then Cheyenne coun- Power Company, a water right on its usual ty, and one of the first efforts there was to terms for the following …
Cary was above described, to which the water is to be much interested in it, and frequently in the conveyed ; it being understood that said years of its building told the editor-in-chief notes and mortgage are to be executed and of the system being built, something of its placed in escrow in the Bridgeport Bank. cost, and the hopes of the men who were where the water deed to …
Hunt came here in 1892, and was take the same, free of charge, the district practically for a number of years the whole taking the canal in its present condition and Belmont Company. All the disappointments such transfer of the canal to the district to of pioneer days were experienced in the sue- be made at the time the notes and mortgage feeding years. The undertaking was a …
Morrill County, Nebraska, hereby relinquish to the Sltate of Nebraska, all of my right, title and interest, and any claim or interest whatsoever, in and to the appropriation of water for irrigation purposes from the North Platte River heretofore made for said land, which appropriation is designated upon the record in the State Engineer's Office, as Docket Number 928. and …
Bridgeport Irrigation District Those freeholders who signed the first petition on March 26, 1913, for the establishment of the Bridgeport irrigation district were: W. H. Davis, W. T. Younggreen, James Finn. W. B. Whiteman. J. L. Johnson, Mark Iddings, C. Palmer, Hiram Maize. Nels Lindquist, Oscar Lindquist, Olga Lindquist, Olaf Lundberg. Nels Lund, Joseph A. Johnson, Carl …
A second petition was filed September 15, 1914, signed by C. Palmer, P. C. Wade. Emma Woolsey, W. H. Davis, H. F. Curtis, E. P. Ouivev, C. C. Nelson. L. L. Curtis, C. A. Sweet. G. J. Hunt, Mabel Tohnson, Wm. Mount, J. S. Hanwav. Charles Hanwav. R. P. Scott. D. E. Ahrens. A. T. Seyboldt. W. E. Guthrie. Margaret Guthrie, Hiram Maize. Mark Iddings, James Finn, Belmont Irrigation …
Scott, treasurer, and Marshall Hanwav. assessor In 1914 the Belmont Company had transferred all its land in this county by contract to the Security Realty and Investment Company of Des Moines, colonization and immigrant agents. Messrs. A. R. Ryan of the Union Pacific. W. M. Dickson and J. F. Dulin of Des Moines, and I). Wilson of < >maha were active in the movement which for a …
Ritchie, Jr., and Mark Spanogle became president and local financier agents for the company and the law firm of Ritchie and Canaday. attorneys for the organization. The company started operations by buying eight farms of eighty acres each in the Bridgeport Irrigation district. They then planned good improvements for these farms and placed them for rent to responsible tenants …
In recent years, the production of crops by irrigation has gone forward in Morrill county by leaps and bounds, and farmers who are practicing this S3-stem of agriculture are experiencing prosperity. Irrigation is in its infancy in this county, which is destined to become one of the most productive agricultural counties of the state. It is our belief that Morrill county can …
The area comprising the district is, in fact, a part of the original North Platte valley project and is generally referred to as the Bridgeport Unit by the United States reclamation officials. It took the government about twelve years to reach the time where it is possible to say, with any degree of assurance, when work on the proposed main ditch and laterals, for the …
The government finally succeeded in acquiring an interest in the Tri-State ditch, which has its terminus at the range line at the west end of the district, and thereby became possessed of ditch capacity more than ample to carrv all of the water necessary. The chief obstacle in the way of reclamation of this area by the government being thus removed, it only remained to make …
The settlers within the Bridgeport unit have exhibited great patience and determination in waiting for the coming of the time when water would be available for irrigation. These qualities will insure wonderful development and prosperity for the district when the government has the work completed and water is at hand. The settlers will then be able to possess themselves of the …
A number of Bridgeport citizens have at different times interested themselves in the matter. Mark Spanogle, ably supported by Attorney Williams, took the affair in hand and a meeting of land owners was called for I )ecember 9, 1916. On that date a very enthusiastic meeting was held in the rooms of the Bridgeport bank, which was presided over by Mark Spanogle and at which the …
Pursuant to this motion it was further decided unanimously that Attorney Fay Williams was the proper man to send to the capital for that purpose and that he should be sent without delay. A subscription list was drawn up to defray expenses and several hundred dollars were raised immediately for that purpose. As socn as the necessary arrangements could be made, Mr. Williams took …
Williams' work at Washington we are not in a position to speak in detail, but he left no stone unturned to influence the irrigation officials and on December 15 a hearing was had before Director Davis at which Mr. Williams presented the case of the land owners very vigorously and strongly. Of this hearing, the Omaha World-Herald, under date of December 15, has the following to …
So it would seem that the efforts of those who are interested have already begun to bear fruit. At any rate, there is no question but that the efforts and money have been well expended and that the officials at Washington have been impressed with the necessity for extending the canal so that this large tract of land may receive the water and thus make use of the carrying …
The petition for the establishment of this Northport district bears a great many names and forms a splendid directory of the citizens residing or owning land in the central part of Morrill county and it was signed by the following: Since then M. H. Hagertv later withdrew his name: Mary Mittlestead. J. H. Brubaker, John A. Gordon, J. K. Vanel, K. G. Brown, Mrs. J. 11. Mann," …
Martin, A. H. Tetters, W. H. Tracy, Frank N. Hunt, Thomas Jacobson, J. I. "Catron, G. A. Seslar, W. S. Bassett, Julius Gebauer, L. F. Harmon, Mary Dobson, C. B. Achey, E. G. Rouse, F. E. Williams, Floyd Seyboldt, James A. Payne, Rex Jepords, Jesse F. Young, Laura E. Young. J. A. Hutton, Robert H. Willis. M. D. Brown, R. C. Neumann, E. S. Kelbourn. H. Dobrinski, C. J …
Assessor, George Middlestadt ; treasurer, Wm. W. Yannata. This district eventually bonded for $45,000. The Alliance canal opened south of Bayard on the north side of the river. About two miles west of the county line, it crosses the Burlington line about a mile east of the town of Bayard and then runs in a southeasterly direction more or less paralleling the railroad through …
Boyer, John Donley, F. A. Comstock, James Burns, C. W. Sixberry. W. E. Morse, M. J. Hanna, asking for the organization of the proposed district. The district was divided into three divisions and an election ordered for November 12, 1912. Division one was to vote at Chimney Rock store. Division two at Chimney Rock schoolhouse, and division three was directed to vote at the …
Bonds of this district were purchased by the state of Nebraska at the same time those of the Alliance irrigation district were purchased. So that Chimney Rock and Alliance share in being the first to sell their bonds to the state. Brown Crekk Irrigation District The formation of this district was petitioned on November 8, 1912, hearing on said petition was held on December 16 …
Anthony Johnson was elected assessor and M. L. Wehn, treasurer. The head-gate of the canal of this district lies on the north side of the river across from Bridgeport near the railroad bridge about a mile east. The canal runs east on the north side of the river through the balance of Camp Clarke precinct across King precinct, crosses Broadwater and the end is about in the west …
Kimball; W. Hiersche, Scottsbluff; J. G. Beeler, North Platte; A. W. Atkins, Bridge port; W. M. Barbour, Scottsbluff. and Judge I hint, Bridgeport. The executive committee: R. II. Willis, Bridgeport; H. H. Andrews, Callaway; T- T- Halligan, North Platte; S. P. Delatour, Lewellen ; Paige T. Francis. Crawford ; J. S. Walker, Kimball; O. W. Gardner. Gering, and W. V. Harvey …
Bushee, Kimball; J. G. Heeler. North Platte. The officers for 1919 were: President, II. II. Andrews, Calloway; first vice president, M. Schumacker; second vice president, P. A. Anderson; treasurer, Mark Spanogle; secretary, R. 11. Wissis. Executive committee: R. H. Willis. Bridgeport; Paige T. Francis, Crawford; I. T. Whitehead, Mitchell; Oval Beal, Brule; J. J. Halligan …
Olsen, Gering; George P. Buckner, Sidney. Drainage committee: Fred Everett, Scottsbluff; A. M. Ginn. Mitchell; R. C. Bassett, Bayard. BRIDGEPORT BUSINESS DIRECTORY -- THE BAR -- OTHER ACTIVITIES The very name is attractive and suggests to the stranger something more than an ordinary village. One at once assumes that there is a bridge spanning an important stream and at the end …
The Chicago, Burlington and Ouincy railroad company has marked this city as its center of operations in the Platte valley, and here should be both the freight and passenger divisions and a natural point for other prospective lines centering here, as pointed out more fully in the railroad story of this county's history. During the comingmonths steps will be taken to install car …
Scott purchased the town site for Lincoln Land Company. J. L. Miller who had been farming below the town, quit about that time and came into town. The next year Miller went in with Gaines in the Miller cv- Gaines store. Will Gaines bought the interest of J. A. Gaines shortly after this time and in 1902 Miller bought out Will Gaines. This first general store up to about six …
It was the desire of the compiler of this section to include a complete roster of all of those who had sacrificed their personal convenience and time to the arduous duties of a "City Dad," but unfortunately the city- clerk's records prior to 1911 were not turned over to the present clerk and were misplaced at the time they were wanted, so we are able to record only those who …
In 1912 the town board remained the same as in 1911, except that Mark Iddings took the place of F. H. Putman, who resigned in September, 1911. The election of 1913, witnessed the entrance of L. R. North. Thomas Ishmael and J. E. Trinnier, who served with Spanogle and Iddings. In 1914 Spanogle was re-elected and R.. C. Neumann came on the board. In 1915 North and Trinnier wne …
A review of those "business houses then already in operation with some slight notice paid to their successive ownership, or discontinuance, if so, would be appropriate at this point. The Bridgeport bank opened about 1900 with J. W. Wehn as president; J. < ). Baker, vice president, and C. II. Connett as cashier. Bridgeport livery stable started with J. W. Lee as proprietor and …
White's store at Camp Clarke, six miles from Bridgeport, was known in 1900 as the "Bee Hive" store. This stock was moved to Bridgeport a short time later and became the "Checker Front" department store. In November, 1901, Dr. J. S. Romine bought the Checker Front stock from White and also the J. A. Smith stock, then in the Heme Hotel building, and consolidated the two stores …
He at various times also had other stores in the valley. Dr. H. P. Scroggin acted for a time as manager for some of these stores, removing here from Rantoul, Illinois. Moran Brothers and Sharp were running the Bridgeport restaurant. Win. McCarter had the blacksmith shop. The lumber business of Bridgeport was opening up about 1900 by Carr & Neft" and this concern is still here …
Tracy and was later burned out. Mrs. Haxby and Myrtle Irwing offered a small stock of clothing and dress goods. J. A. Schwender's saloon had been started about this time south of the Valley Hotel. Fred Oilman of Redington was offering photographic service. The Bradford-Kennedy Lumber Co. put in the second lumber yard under the management of J. Trinnier. This later became the …
Mark Spanogle and Clyde Spanogle had come into this bank as vice president and cashier. Faye Williams had located here in the practice of law. Dr. V. Anderson was practicing medicine as well as running the drug store and Bridgeport had sufficiently expanded to now have the service of various other lines of business people. A. C. Kaempfer had a blacksmith shop. J. H. Porter was …
Neumann. proprietor Meglemre, city dray ; J. W. Lee, Palace livery stable ; Bridgeport Hardware Company : LeBlanc Brothers, started about 1907 or 1908; W. H. Willis, implements; Beerline & Scott, hardware and harness ; Bridgeport Lumber Company ; W. J. Scoggins, dentist; M. F. Umbenhower, auctioneer; Dr. C. Palmer, R. C. Neumann, proprietor Hotel Bridgeport ; Wilcox & Broome …
Putman. groceries; Bridgeport Lumber Company, lumber and coal, F. H. Putman, president. J. L. Tout, secretary: A. C. G. Kaempfer, blacksmith and wagon shop; Valley Hotel, Ridings and LaFollette, proprietors ; Sam Fisher, barber shop ; Reynolds & Clark, restaurant; J. A. Schwender. wines, liquors and cigars; R. H. Hester, the Club saloon; C. C. Nelson, the "Sugar Beet …
Willis, implements, wagons, buggies and automobiles ; Mark Iddings. livery and omnibus line ; Jddings and Meglemre. dray line and ice ; Carr & Neff Lumber Company, lumber and coal ; Star Bottling Works, A'an Zimmerman, manager; Nebraska Telephone Company ; The Mode, Miss Mayme Hagerty, proprietor, the up-to-date millinery store ; Standard Oil Company, Clyde Meglemre, manager …
Sawyer, plasterer; Nels Hansen, painting and decorating; O. K. Barber Shop, J. Humpal, proprietor; Iddings & Johnson ; Bridgeport Blade. Various changes and extensions will be noted concerning some of these stores already mentioned that still are in existence. The Golden Rule Store has flourished under its present ownership, Guy Gardner, who bought out the Millett stock …
A business that has risen to a position of supreme importance within the short life of Bridgeport has been the auto business with its garages, tire and accessories, sales and repair shops. Leslie Boodry put in the first garage in Bridgeport where the Buick garage is now located. W. H. Willis soon expanded his hardware and implement business so that he handles the Studebaker …
H. Willis, R. P. Scott, Rev. T. B. Burke. Conventions and Excursions: J. H. Steuteville, A. W. Atkins. J. H. Lynch. In 1913 it had sixty-five active members. Through the efforts of President Mark Spanogle, thirty-four new members were taken into this community organization at one meeting in February. At that time the committees were given early announcements and this roster …
Reception: F. E. Williams. Old Soldiers and Settlers Reunion : B. E. Betebenner, G. H. Watkins, F. R. Lindberg, I. L. Johnson. Railroad: G. J. Hunt, J. L. Miller, R. C. Neumann. J. E. Le- Blanc, L. R. North. Upon December 28, 1916, a complete reorganization of the old boosters' club was effected at the city hall. The new organization is to be known as the Morrill County …
Farris, H. H. Smith, Wm. Willis, E.'F. Morris, L. R. North, Rex Jeffords, E. W. Todd, E. K. Milmine, Guy Gardner. Enterprise Development Bureau : A. T. Seybolt, chairman ; R. C. Neumann, F. E. Williams, C. B. Millett, R. H. Willis, C. F. Clawges, J. E. LeBlanc, E. V. Draper, F. H. Putman, Lloyd Wiggins, R. E. Barrett, Frank Hunt, Dr. C. Palmer, Fred Lindberg, E. Steuteville …
L. West, Mark Spanogle, A. F. Marsh. Chamber of Commerce The work of the old Commercial Club involved into the progressive Community Club, which carried on the community work for Bridgeport for some few years. Then in common with the practice cf giving the commercial organizations throughout the United States uniform title, the community agency of Bridgeport is now known as …
In October L. B. Cary became proprietor. In 1905 R. H. Willis was publisher. The Platte Valley News began in 1903. These two papers were consolidated into the News-Blade, July 24, 1908. J. M. Lynch became editor and remained in active charge of this paper for some years until Bruce Wilcox, its present editor, took charge. Wilcox served as register in the United States land …
He was genial and social in his intercourse with friends, always thoughtful and considerate of the feelings of others. His life is a splendid exposition of those quiet, guiding precepts of the highest type of our citizenship. He crowned it all with a Christian faith that stripped death of all terror to him. Rev. King, of the Presbyterian church of Bridgeport, of which church …
At the age of seventeen years he enlisted in the Northern Army, and served to the close of the Civil War as bugler in Company D, First Regiment of Delaware Cavalry. x\t the close of the Civil War he was honorably discharged. He re-enlisted and saw service on the western frontier, during the time that the Indians were causing the United States so much annoyance. He was …
He was one of the leading democrats of the state of Nebraska, serving four terms as state representative and one term as state senator from Butler county. He was a member of the board of control of the Soldiers and Sailors Home at Grand Island and Milford for three years. In 1898 he was appointed secretary of the Nebraska Commission of the Trans-Mississippi Exposition held at …
He became a member of the Masonic order years ago, in Iowa, later affiliating at David City. When Camp Clarke lodge No. 285, A. F. & A. M., was organized at Bridgeport in 1913, he became one of the charter members, and has been active in the work of this lodge since that time. He has been patron of the Eastern Star since its organization in 1914. He was also commander of the …
Seabury, D.V.S., veterinary surgeon and dentist ; William J. Scroggin, general dental practitioner. Attorneys : Bruce Wilcox, lawyer and land attorney; F. M. Broome, United States land attorney, office at Alliance, practicing here; G. J. Hunt, attorney-at-law ; John H. Steuteville. attorney-at-law; Williams & Williams, attorneys-at-law ; Hurd & Spanogle, lawyers ; Geo*. G …
Pedersen, architect and superintendent, office at Gering. Morrill County Bar The Morrill county bar had increased to somewhat enlarged proportions. The death of Judge George J. Hunt left a notable gap in the familiar line-up of the legal fraternity. His younger partner, C. G. Perry, had taken over the office and practice. Judge Leslie G. Hurd, who had come from Harvard …
A few years ago the community of Bayard, a village of only a few hundred population, had no resident attorney, and depended upon Bridgeport and towns to the west for legal service, except for the work of United State Commissioner Cronkleton and local justices, but with the phenomenal growth of the town came several attorneys resident at Bayard. H. M. Marquis was one. In 1917 …
Hunt, who has so recently been called from his family, the activities of life, and this bar, to stand at the bar of the final court before which we too must sooner or later appear. While the reason for this meeting causes me great pain at the loss of one whose friendship I have enjoyed for many years, it is a pleasure that I can be here today and add a word to the tribute of …
Full of Maryland pride, and with not much in the way of resources except aristocratic tendencies, George worked his way through a Maryland college and was graduated at the head of his class at the age of eighteen. His family traditions were always with him, and in spite of lack of much in the way of earthly goods, he worked his way and was always a gentleman. He exhibited a …
During the latter part of 1876 he returned to Maryland, studied law for several months and was admitted to the bar of Maryland. He returned to Omaha in the early spring of 1878 and entered as a clerk in the office of Thomas W. T. Richards, who during the Civil War had been a captain in the Confederate army under Mosby. Mr. Congdon, senior member of the law firm above referred …
Congdon in the meantime had become a partner of Senator Manderson under the firm name of Manderson & Congdon. Mr. Manderson was elected to the senate in 1883, and on May 1 of that year he and Mr. Congdon dissolved partnership and the firm of Congdon, Clarkson & Hunt was organized. These three young men had already established individual reputations for themselves, so that it …
Finally a gentleman from California or Idaho brought an irrigation case to the firm. The work fell to Mr. Hunt. The result was the dissolution of the old firm and the placing of Mr. Hunt in the irrigation business and caused his removal to Bridgeport. The firm of Congdon, Clarkson & Hunt was dissolved in February, 1892, Mr. Hunt coming to the great North Platte valley with his …
Hunt's boyhood sweetheart and the only girl or woman he was ever known to> have any interest in. He was engaged to her prior to coming to Nebraska. Air. Congdon said to me, and no one knows whereof he spoke better than he : "As a wife and mother she has been without a superior and she shows to best advantage through close acquaintance." They had three children, Harriet, Julia …
Congdon, that the thought uppermost in his mind always was for the Maryland girl who came west with him to share the dangers and privations of western life and remained his loving and faithful wife during all the years. One consolation in this sad hour is that she could be with him in his last moments, and that when he was called a\vay he has left her provided for, so that if …
As the frontier line steadily pushed westward until the great prairie region of the Mississippi basin was reached, the unprepossessing log "house of larnin" gave way to the still more gloomy looking sod schoolhouse where the same rule of three was dealt with just as precariously. No matter where or when a settler contemplates going to a new location, perhaps the first …
The first grade is divided into two sections, presided over by the Misses Dyson and Sharp, both residents of Bridgeport and graduates of the institution in which they are now instructing. 1919 was the first year with two primary teachers. The enrollment of beginners was so much larger than usual owing to the influx of settlers that one room was too small to accommodate them …
In 1918 the school was raised to what is known as "Class A" in the comparative rating of Nebraska high schools by the state university. 1919 it was placed a notch higher, being entered on the accredited list of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. This makes the rating of the Bridgeport high school equal to the best in the state. A graduate of this …
Morrison of the Colorado State Teachers' College is director of the commercial department and also of girls' athletics. Miss Ledra Johnson of the Nebraska Wesleyan University is teacher of Latin and English, and has charge of the High School Girls' Glee Club. In addition to the regular members of the faculty, there is employed each year a dramatic coach to handle the annual …
How well this object is attained can be attested by the work of graduates in the schools of Morrill and adjoining counties. The domestic science laboratory is as well equipped with all modern appliances as money can buy. The general laboratorv is remarkably complete for instruction in all the major sciences. The typewriting department is well supplied with good machines. The …
Each spring the high school publishes an excellent senior annual. The spring dramatics of the school are always of a strong character. A school orchestra and glee club are maintained. The nineteen hundred and eighteen graduating class contained nine members. Nineteen hundred and nineteen will graduate eight, one girl having answered the call of the teaching profession early …
In the year of 1910 and some time before that, Bridgeport schools consisted of a frame four room building with four teachers. Since that time the enrollment was steadily growing and the number of teachers was increased. This called for another two room frame building. In 1916 these were insufficient and a brick building of fourteen rooms was erected. These are modern in every …
The school at present ranks as high as any in the state. It is rated in class A and belongs to the North Central Association of Secondary Schools and College. Banks The first bank in Bridgeport was the Bridgeport Bank, organized in 1900 with J. W. Wehn as president, J. O. Baker as vice-president and C. H. Connett as cashier. The next bank was the Valley State, organized in …
In 1910 the officers of these banks were: Bridgeport Bank : Fred R. Lindberg, president ; L. P. Lindberg ; Mark Spanogle, cashier; and Clyde Spanogle. At that time this bank had a paid up capital of $15,000, surplus and profits $5,000. deposits $120,000. Statements which not only reflect the steady and healthy growth of this institution, but also indicates similar progressive …
Time certificates of deposit _ 91,766.58 Cashier's checks outstanding 1,255.00 Due to national and state banks 2,735.91 219,192.17 Depositors guaranty fund ". 1,576.69 Total $250,638.10 February 14, 1920: Resources Loans and discounts. . . $757,825.23 Overdrafts 6,067.36 Bonds, securities, judgments, claims, etc., including all government bonds 1,700.00 Banking house …
This bank, at that time, had a paid up capital of $20,000.00, surplus $2,300.00. deposits $81,650.00. and loans and taxes $84,780.00. This institution in 1910 was succeeded by The First National Bank of Bridgeport. The officers, in 1914, were: Directors. H. K. Burkett, M. W. Folsom, G. H. Watkins. J. L. Miller, J. L. Johnson, W. C. Dugger ; President, H. K. Burkett …
Watkins, Lloyd Wiggins. The following officers were then elected : G. H. Watkins, president ; F. H. Putman. vicepresident : T. B. Estill, cashier ; Lloyd Wiggins, assistant cashier. Mr. Watkins has been vice-president of the Citizen's National Bank, of McCook, of which institution Mr^. Franklin is the president, and he will divide his time between the two banks. F. H. Putman …
His successor has not yet been selected, and he will continue to look after the lumber business for a time, but enters upon his new duties as assistant cashier, on January 20th. The other directors, W. C. Duggor and J. L. Miller, have been identified with the development of town and country since pioneer days. They have the confidence and esteem of all the people. The fact …
Fisher, who founded and operated successfully the Farmers State Bank of Bayard, being president of that institution, sold his interest in that concern about two weeks ago and went over a considerable part of Nebraska in search of a promising location for another bank. Mr. Fisher became convinced that Bridgeport has the best prospects for immediate advancement of all the towns …
The growth reached by this bank in its career is reflected by its statements of February 14, 1920: Resources Loans and discounts . . . $148,402.99 Overdrafts 1,227.73 Bonds, securities, judgments, claims, etc., including government bonds 915.76 Banking house, furniture and fixtures 6,083.81 Current expenses, taxes and interest paid. . . . 1,380.06 Cash items 513.34 Due from …
Mark Spanogle, president ; George W. Beerline, vice-president ; Clyde Spanogle, cashier. Corporations and Associations A review of the record of corporations and associations as kept in compliance with the laws of the state at the County Clerk's office, show those who have been the energetic launchers and operators of numerous business enterprises that have flourished in …
Forest Lawn Cemetery To the Forest Lawn Cemetery Association, is due the beautiful resting place which has been secured and developed as a last resting place for the loved ones of the citizens of Bridgeport. The original board of trustees who bore the brunt of the work and secured and developed this beautiful plot were: J. M. Lynch, clerk, I. A. Davis, D. A. Sharp, J. B …
Hutchinson, J. E. Trinnier, Loren R. North, J. E. LeBlanc, secretary, J. L. Johnson. John G. Burkett, Charles F. Clawges, Mark Iddings, Elbert Scott, Victor Anderson, Mark Spanogle, Fay E. Williams, J. F. Steuteville, George J. Hunt, A. S. Kaempfer. Farmers Mutual Canal Company had filed on July 6, 1909, to take over the canal then owned by the Tri-State Land Company, with B …
An enterprise which has given Bridgeport some distinction in the industrial world has been its pickle factory. The Otto Kuehne Pickling Company was incorporated Tune 15, 1915, by: P. C. Wade, A. T. Seybelt, Thos. Ishmael, Otto Kuehne, Sam Livingston, A. W. Atkins, A. Weisenberger, J. L. Johnson, F. H. Putman, J. F. Holloway, L. R. North, T- A. Schwender, F. E. Williams, T. B …
He will give his best attention to the factory management and to the producing of a high class of pickles by the factory so that the business may be put on a more permanent basis. Prospective growers should see the superintendent or Mr. Van Deventer, the president, or may make their contracts at the Hunt Realty company's office at any time. This should be attended to at once …
On Tuesday, May 16, 1919, the property of the Farmers Cooperative Association was sold to ten individual farmers who are reorganizing the affairs of the company and will eventually merge the concern into a Farmers Union Cooperative Association. This merger will be made within, the next sixty days. In the meanwhile the property will be used as a receiving station for butter fat …
The manager advises us that it is the intention of the Farmers Union Cooperative Association to handle a number of lines of business as soon as arrangements can be made. They will handle cream separators, now having an agency for these, and will engage in general merchandise business including farm machinery, along the lines of the Farmer Union stores that are in operation at …
The Farmers Cooperative Association of Bridgeport filed articles on October 25, 1916, with $10,000 capital and signed by: W. C. Muhr, J. A. Muhr, E. G. Rouse, W. J. Cochran, Harvey Hascall, Gus Mittlestadt, W. T. Todd, George Sudvka, W. D. Cocke, Thos. Carter, I. E. Oliver.'G. A. Seslar, H. D. Mcwilliams, C. W. Mount. S. H. Burkey, Floyd Friend, J. L. Muhr, William Powell …
Churches The establishing of resident congregation in Bridgeport came soon after the town sprang up in 1900 with the Methodists in the field first. The Presbyterian, the Episcopal and the Baptist congregations followed. The Catholic, Lutheran, Evangelical and Seven Day Adventist while having no church edifice, held occasional services in Bridgeport. The United Brethren …
Ben Fye, temporary clerk, clerk of Presbytery, and a resident of Scottsbluff; Rev. A. J. Kearns, of Alliance; Rev. W. H. Kearns, Omaha ; Rev. P. P. Keplinger, Mitchell ; Rev. E. A. Steen, Scottsbluff ; Rev. George Woodward, Broadwater; Rev. J. P. Miller, Gordon; Rev. T. J. Hunter, Kimball; Rev. J. B. Currens, Morrill; Rev. Thomas Osborn, Bayard ; Mr. R. V. Crone, president of …
Louis, in May, are Rev. George Woodward and H. D. Moore. Alternates, Rev. S. Light, and Dr. Wilson, of Rushville. Rev. Ben Fye as a committee on resolutions gave a hearty testimonial to the hospitality extended to the delegates and to the arrangement completed by the committee on entertainment, Rev. S. H. King, the pastor, and elders L. R. North, E. V. Draper, J. D. Johnston …
Fred Putney weighed six hundred and sixty pounds, by far the largest resident of the North Platte valley. He had had made for him a specially constructed motor car with the steering wheel in the center, and before his death which he saw approaching he had measurements taken and a coffin made -- the largest ever made by the Denver casket makers. A part of the side walls of the …
As related elsewhere, he settled on Lawrence Fork in 1889. He was a man of unabating energy and industry, and left a comfortable estate. His widow, one son and three daughters succeed him, each of which is doing duty in the various walks of life. Joe Niehus lives on the home place at Redington, Mrs. Theodore Scoville lives at Bushnell in Kimball county. Mrs. Will Borden …
In order to get permission to leave the land of his nativity, he had to promise to return in case he was needed for military duty. A year or so before the outbreak of the World War, he was injured in a runaway, the final result of which was his demise after five years of ill health. He came to the North Platte valley in 1888; and resided here, on his farm and in the city of …
King was sheriff of Cheyenne county four years, from 1897 to 1900. He was an excellent man in every respect, loved by his neighbors and old timers generally, and they turned out enmasse to attend the final services to their comrade and friend. Those who rode the range with him here, who saw his departure for the Other Range, did so with the calm assurance that they will join …
The cattle wars that raged for a time never reached the state of terror here that they did on the Wyoming prairies. By 1888 the big herds had been practically withdrawn and the settlers were left in virtually undisputed possession of the valley. W. P. De Vault had preempted in 1888 and E. M. Stearns came from Loup City about that time and made a deal with Wm. Peters who had …
For a time Harvey Stevens ran one of the stores and James O'Holleran handled groceries and conducted the postoffice. F. C. McMath had a stock of goods, which he disposed of to A. O. Taylor who ran the stock until the railroad came and then the store was taken to the new site by Frank Stearns. S. D. Burnett started the old hotel and that building was moved over to the new town …
This was the connecting link of civilization the valley was now to the outside world. New people, with new business life came; the old inhabitants were awakened from their peaceful slumber of contentment, and a new era, a greatness only dreamed of by far-seeing few, began to be a reality. Land content to be worthless waste became valuable town lots in the new towns springing …
Measuring Bayard not only as a single town or city, but taking the broader view of its wonderful trade community and territory, he pictured the entire project in splendid terms. Much of the history of the community is woven into this graphic series and while the entire product is much too long for reproduction in this work, we feel it should not be lost to posterity. Neither …
Climate, soil, altitude and resources combine to make it one of the most productive spots in the fertile valley, while work being done within the city by a progressive set of business men is pushing it rapidly toward the front. Thirty-eight hundred feet above the level of the sea, short hot days with the long cool evenings are experienced in summer, while, lying snuggly in the …
In 1916, there were less than 500 people in the place, but, in 1917, with the erection of the factory, the work was started on Webster avenue and within that time and this that street represents thousands of dollars in improvements and presents the appearance of a larger city with its two-story modern and fireproof business houses, constructed for the most part of fire brick …
by the opening of the fall term. Electric power is supplied from up the valley, but with the completion of the huge government project below the Pathfinder dam it is thought that current may be taken in charge by the city. The erection of a $75,000 municipal building is but a matter of months, while at the same time modern fire-fighting apparatus also will be installed. The …
With the erection of the new $225,000 high school building, which will be completed in the fall, the city will have three schools. The high school already is accredited and ranks with the best. The teaching faculty of twenty-seven is of the highest grade and must show excellent ratings, first grade city certificates being required. Six churches add the moral tone to the city …
This allows the city $225,000 for a school building which will stand as a monument to what has been done along educational lines in the city and county. This high school which is constructed of firebrick and reinforced concrete, presents a beautiful picture. It is located at the edge of the residential section, easily accessible from every part of the city, and stands on a …
The other two buildings devoted to school purposes in Bayard are the brick school which, until the present time, was used by the high school, but is now used for the junior high school. This building, erected in 1917, has twelve rooms and is modern throughout. The third school, the original district school building of Bayard, was erected about twenty years ago and is not …
The building is a brick structure fifty-nine and one-half feet wide and eighty-six and onehalf feet long, is two stories high with a basement. The structure faces the south on which side and at the extreme ends are found the main entrances. It is built of a rough-fini.shed, dark red brick and trimmed in grey face brick. City Government ok Bayard The town of Bayard was …
Vannatta, J. H. Long, F. O. Wisner. Harvey Stephens, Charles D. Green. In 1906, W. W. Vannatta, J. H. Long, W. T. McKelvey, Fred Benton, J. C. Wysong. In 1907, W. W. Vannatta, J. H. Long, F. E. Stearns. Fred Benton, I. C. Wysong. In 1908. W. W. Vannatta, J. H. Long, F. E. Stearns, Fred Benton, J. C. Wysong. In 1909, W. W. Vannatta, J. H. Long. L. C. Leach, Fred Benton, C. H …
R. Vannatta, L. F. Flower, W. J. Ericson, E. W. Chambers, L. A. Fricke. In 1917. F. W. Hughes, L. F. Flower, G. W. Judd, F. W. Chambers, L. A. Fricke, resigned, A. E. Fisher, appointed. In 1918, A. G. Kemper, L Loewenstein, G. W. Judd. W. J. Ericson, L."A. Fricke. In 1919, Albert Harrison, first mayor. L. A. Fricke, Chairman, G. W. Judd, J. Lowenstein, E. H. Klemke. W. J …
1901-- C. H. Harpole. March 4. 1901, A. A. Wagner. 1902-- C. H. Harpole, A. A. Wagner. 1903-- C. H. Harpole, F. O. Wisner. 1904 -- C. H. Harpole, Vannatta. 1905-- C. H. Harpole, F. E. Stearns. 1906-- C. H. Harpole, F. E. Stearns. 1907-- C. H. Harpole, F. E. Stearns. 1908-- C. H. Harpole, September, E. R. Vannatta. 1909-- R. A. Wisner, E. R. Vannatta. 1910-- R. A. Wisner, E. R …
Stearns, trustee for first two years, was the father of F. E. Stearns, twice trustee later, the first clerk, and three times treasurer. F. E. (or Frank) later served three terms in the state legislature and was without superior in that body during his service. Col. F. O. Wisner served five years as trustee, one as treasurer, and his son Ray two years as clerk. The Wisners also …
Cleveland. A. M. Gilbert. H. E. Erickson. J. A. Fulton, Oscar Funk, E. H. Klembke, Laura A. Reynolds, W. Roberts, L. C. Leach, H. E. Randall. F. A. Comstock, A. W. Tohnson. C. G. Edgerson. J. H. Daggy, W. E. Hoth, P. I. Kruse, R. E' O'Neal. R. H. Walford, T. M. Brown, O. R. Peters. Geo. W. Young. W. O. Smith, D. C. Howell. R. A. Warner, John King, Jas. Webster, E. H. Reyn …
Fisher, Lawrence Fricke, Earl Heyl, Fred Hughes, Ellis Judke, Clyde Leach, F. McCarter, Robt. Pinkerton. Odd Fellows and Rebeccas Chimney Rock Lodge 257. I. O. O. F. started September 23, 1901, with the following as charter members : F. Watkins, Steve Lowley, J. H. Long, S. D. Barnett, Elmer Warner, R. Sheffer, L. H. Franklin, Wm. Evens, Chas. Franklin, Jas. O'Hollaren. Wm …
Bayard also has a successful Camp of Woodmen of America of which John Muller is recent Mercantile Bayard has a large number of stores, principally the Farmers Union and the Golden Rule and Bayard Mercantile. Groceries are handled by the Hire Bros., and the Star Grocery and J. B. Falmer. Hardware is handled by the Winter Co., Burke & Harper and the Erickson Hardware Co. The …
Broodshaw, dentist. Harry Bulch, blacksmith. Commercial Hotel and Cafe. Davidson and Hochstettler. L. A. Fricke, real estate office. Great Western Sugar Beet Factory. Grand Hotel and Cafe. Hapgood and Co. Art Store. Hotel Bayard. Hughes Bros. Light and Railway Power Company. L. G. Lundy, second hand store. L. Lathrop and Mr. Bassett, real estate. W. P. DeVault, real estate …
largest and strongest banks in the valley, with deposits of over $313,000, loans of about $222,000, cash and exchange on hand of over $118,000, surplus and undivided profits of over $17,00 and total resources of over $380,000. The bank stands in an almost impregnable position to be of the greatest assistance to the community in the building up of its resources and in its …
Margaret's Episcopal, the First Baptist, the Lutheran and Farmers Congregation. The United Presbyterian with Rev. Wagner as pastor came to Bayard about sixteen years ago. Its church building is now in use by Presbyterians. Post Office Otto Wisner had charge of the postofhce about 1891 and handled it until 1904, when Frances L. Wisner became postmistress and remained until she …
Randall came here about 1890, when this country had little to offer and from that time on played a man's part. He went into the cattle business and by care and thrift, laid up a good portion of this world's goods, later taking up farming. He served this county for two terms as County Commissioner and was forced to resign on account of illness. Of a most kindly disposition, his …
He came to Nebraska in 1886, and in December, 1892, was married to Miss Melissa C. Beldon. To this union were born, two sons, Gerald and Max, and a daughter, Mrs. M. Garwood. Besides his wife and children he leaves four brothers, Charles C, of Bandon, Oregon; Dean M., of St. Cloud, Florida ; J. O. of Bridgeport, and A. J. of Bayard, His aged father, James M. Randall, lives at …
The Rebecca lodge had charge of the burial service. HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA 4()3 While death is looked upon as the final and great calamity in every life, it at least brings all people to the position where they are willing and disposed to do justice to the dead, whether foe or friend. It is, perhaps, true that the best measure of any person can be had after their …
Christina Ruehl was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 19, 1861, and lived there until five years of age. At that time, she with her parents moved to Newport, Kentucky. At the age of fifteen years she came with her parents to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she joined the Presbyterian church and was an active member. On October 15, 1884, she was married to George Mason, and on May …
Alexander Wimberly of the Presbyterian church, using the Scriptural consolation of Isaiah 66:13, "As one whom his mother comforted, so will I comfort you." To those who were not fortunate in knowing the wife and mother, who, by her passing, has rendered another home in this city desolate, the mere fact that some one has died, means nothing, is nothing, but to those who knew …
He knew that he was going for some time before he died and as death approached he met it as he lived, calmly and fearlessly. The old soldier, settler, comrade, and friend has gone but behind him he has left the record of a man. Soldiers of the present conflict carried his body to the last resting place, and taps were sounded and while he was unconscious of all this, methinks …
After the war he took up his residence in Todd county, Minnesota, where he married Edith E. Webster, at Gordontown January 1, 187<>. After living for three years in Montana and returning to Minnesota for another three years, Mr. Comstock moved with his family to Kearney, Nebraska. In the spring of '86 the Comstocks settled in the North Platte Valley at Chimney Rock where the …
Situated on the Burlington Alliance-Bridgeport line near the north edge of Morrill county is the village of Angora, the third town of importance in the county. Its territory is the Good Streak country to the west, where ciryfarming is practiced to considerable success, and a prosperous community is the result; while to the east stretches the great sand hills, where thousands …
Berge, twice candidate for governor of Nebraska, and once for attorney general lives near Broadwater, and has a splendidly equipped modern farm. The village is situate upon the Union Pacific North Platte valley branch, or Medicine Bow cut-off. The place has ample backing and mercantile facilities, churches, schools, and the like, to make it a live community center. The Kings …
Bridgeport largely attends to the needs of the Northport community in every line. Other Places Atkins and Simla, are small distribution centers, where the railroad offers loading facilities, and mercantile business is carried to a very limited extent. The last named is at the site o<f old Mud Springs, famous in the history of the pony express, overland stage, and early cow …
Murphy: Bayard precinct, W. D. Askine, C. A. Mantz and Yale Cavet ; Redington precinct, H. A. Gilman ; Broadwater precinct, J. R. Minshal ; Weir-Lisco precinct, J. A. Millett ; Eastwood precinct, Harvey W. Majors ; Storm Lake precinct, Victor E. Covalt ; Gilchrist precinct, C. A. Snow; King precinct, C. A. Tolle ; Riley Hill precinct, W. V. Dove ; Bonner precinct, M. L …
The entire record of Morrill county during the war, as to its contribution to the military service is shown in the following figures : Registration on June 5, 1917 955 Tuly and August. 1918 60 September 12, 1918 1139 Total 2154 Those actually inducted and accepted at camp, 254. There were 243 in general service. five remediables, 126 placed in limited service and only …
A reading on "Community Service" by Mrs. Mark Spanogle. Council of Defense Organized under the leadership of Judge G. J. Hunt, chairman of the Council, and held meetings every Friday night in Essig Hall. During that period when affairs of such vital importance to the nation, current problems were weekly discussed and plans laid to promote patriotic movements throughout the …
This was followed by a touching speech by County Attorney K. W. McDonald, whose father served under the Stars and Stripes. Attorney Fay Williams followed with a stirring talk, in which he urged all to do their duty in this hour of need. Editor C. D. Casper spoke on the philosophy of the war and the history of the nations engaged therein, showing that he had made a deep study …
Spanogle, whose name was on the program, thought best to decline to speak on account of the lateness of the hour and the great amount of work in organizing that yet remained to be done in a limited time. Mark Spanogle also declined to take up time for the same reason. Patriotic songs were sung at intervals by all those present, and Mrs. Roy Harshman rendered a favorite, "Keep …
Three veterans of the Civil War were buried in this cemetery: Comrades Brown, White, and Milledge. Early Recruits Morrill county's sons began to pour into service at the very first opportunity. All three of her young men, Thomas F. Neighbors, George Irwin, and H. R. Van Home, who left for Fort Snelling, got through the preliminary examination and were assigned to companies for …
Johnson, Clark Ruly, Keith E. McGee. "They, were given a rousing farewell at Esseg Hall by the warm-hearted people of Morrill county. While space in this work would not permit the full presentation of remarks made upon such occasion, the farewell admonition prepared for this occasion by Rev. George F. McDougall will serve to preserve the nature of tribute that Morrill county …
the tears and the cheers of comrades and you are going out from our midst with the tears of loved ones fresh on their cheeks, departing for whatever battle front the war department may send you, and in the belief that you will give the best you have in strength and manhood for the cause which means life to democracy. "Today is the most momentous in the history of the world …
Those who see you depart sympathize with you and they also understand the deep sorrow on the part of the loved ones you leave. 'God help the person who would dare say that these boys in khaki are not all men.' "You may go to France, you may go to Russia, you may be sent elsewhere, but you will gladly go where needed. We may never see you again, but you are still ours. We see …
You are the men who will be ready to fight the Germans over the rampart of dead bodies, you will give your life for the land and liberty we love so well. You will come back to us, bringing with you the knowledge that will make for the brotherhood of man and 'golden age for which humanity waits.' May the Great God whose Providence rules the universe protect and bless you and …
The ladies who assisted at the registering at the court house were: Mrs. H. L. Scoggin, chairman; Mrs. Brandt, Mrs. Manning, Miss Alberta Lynch, and Mrs. Ritchie. The chairmen who officiated in the different precincts in this work 'were: Court House Rock, Lillian Twist ; Union, Delia Finn ; Broadwater, Mrs. J. R. Minshall ; Eastwood, Mrs. John McDermott; Riley Hill, Miss Anna …
By the end of the first week in October, eighty-one men from Morrill had left their homes, their businesses and their loved ones to protect the liberty of the world. A ringing call was issued to those at home to back up those, with their money. This organization complete in every precinct, was formed by the following committee : HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA Bayard Precinct …