Newspaper Abstracts

Iowa Old Press

The Free Press
Mount Pleasant, Henry, Iowa
March 6, 1879

Election at Rome.
    Our neighboring city of Rome held an election on Monday last. There were two tickets in the field, one called the license and the other the anti-license ticket.- But we have been creditably informed that the ticket called license was in reality composed of tax-payers and the candidates on the other were nearly all non-tax payers. After a very close contest the license ticket came out ahead with a majority of five votes. The following are the officers elected:
    James Moffat, Mayor.
    C. Elliott, Treasurer.
    Dr. Carter, Recorder.
    P. O'Loghlin, John Worley, W.A. Scott, Peter Graber, J. McArdle, Councilmen.
    Peter Moore, Assessor.
    C.C. Churchill, Street Commissioner.

MARRIED.
GRUNER-PHILLIPS- On the 25th of February, at the house of Mr. John Henton, Miss A.T. Gruner, and Mr. H.C. Phillips. Rev. J.A. Farrar officiating.
SMITH-ROSS- At the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. Charity Ross, Feb. 26th, 1879, Mr. B.H. Smith and Miss Esther C. Ross, all of Mt. Union, Henry Co, Iowa.

To the Irishmen of Henry Co.
There is a meeting to be held on next Sunday morning at the Catholic church, where matters will be discussed in which you are interested.
HUGH O'HARE, JOSEPH WARREN, JOHN MARONEY.

Personal.
-Mrs. E.M. Lash returned a few days since, from a six weeks visit with her daughter in Woodburn.
-Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ambler are visiting their daughter Mrs. Campbell at St. Joseph, Missouri.
-Mrs. Henry Whiting returned on Monday from a trip to Council Bluffs, where she has been attending the marriage of Miss Helen Rue, formerly a resident of this city.

Correct answers to the Engima in last week's PRESS were received from Everett L. Ambler, George Vorhies, Cora E. Frazier and Annie L. Conlin. Several others inquired if the answer had been received, and finding it had, did not give their names. Everett Ambler is entitled to the bottle of cologne The motto of VanCise & Co., and the answer is "Pure drugs, quick sales, small profits." When you want anything in the drug line it will pay you to trade at No. 10 west side park.

Joel Elliott, a sentenced prisoner who fled from his bail while awaiting a decision of his case in the Supreme Court, about two years since, and by this means subjected Jesse Cook of Salem township and his own father who had joined in the bail, fixed at ten thousand dollars, to a liability to pay the same if he could not be produced, has at last after much searching over to the Dallas county authorities where the crime was committed. He was accidentally discovered in Leavenworth county, Kansas. Jesse Cook was notified, and he in company with F.A. Conner of this city started over a week ago for their man. This is a great relief to friend Cook, who has been caused a world of trouble in the matter.

Local Matters.

- S.W. Garvin is just in receipt of a large stock of notions, consisting of hosiery, gloves, buttons of every style, and many other things. Those new carpets are going off lively.
-All those who voted illegally on Monday and those who induced them to so vote may as well contemplate a "Judgment Day," for it is sure to come. These recorded names will be investigated.
-Miss Jessie Wilson, during her visit here availed herself of our fine facilities for art culture by spending a part of her time in taking lessons of Mrs. Scherwe in porcelain painting. She hopes to be able to pursue this work still further at no distant day.
-Mr. Isaac Martin and Miss Mary Rourke were married at the Catholic church in the presence of a large congregation of friends on Tuesday, Feb. 25th, Father Walsh officiating. A great many rich presents were made the happy couple but no no has thought to provide us with further particulars.
-R. Waltz, the merchant tailer [sic] in rooms east of Hollowells, has just received his spring stock of good which he is prepared to make up for his customers in the latest styles at prices for full cassimere suits ranging from $16 up. Those wanting nice suits warranted to fit will do well to call and examine his stock.
-Charlie Eshelman got out a suit of clothes for a Burlington man, this week, of about the largest measure on record.- The pants measured fifty-four inches around the waist, and the suit all through was in that proportion. It was well that Charlie had removed to his new quarters, else he might have been embarrassed for room.
-An interesting letter from our friend R.C. Brown, written from Colorado, giving something of the situation in Canon City, Silver Cliff, Leadville, etc., etc., we regret came too late for insertion this week. In a private note he says: "Tell every one coming to Colorado to bring money enough to take them home if they don't like it, and that if they want to mine they should wait until spring comes.

Shocking Accident.
Christopher Weber, an employe in the bridge department of the C.B. & Q.R.R. met with a most terrible accident on Monday afternoon about three o'clock. He lately had been off duty for a few days on account of a sore throat. On this day, Monday, he went to tell his "boss" who was working near Rome that he would be able to work the next day, Tuesday. Desiring to see some friends at work on the road about three miles east of Rome, he went to where they were, after which he attempted to board a freight train, running on time intending to ride back to Rome. He evidently miscalculated the speed of the train for his hand were jerked from their hold, and he was thrown on his face with his body partly under the train, his left side being badly bruised, his arm cut, and his left leg crushed into an unshapen mass from three inches below the hip joint down to his ankle. He was picked up placed on a hand car and brought to the depot in this city. Doctors McClure and Robinson were sent for and on examination expressed doubts of his recovery, but after due consultation it was decided to amputate the limb. Meanwhile the unfortunate man was removed to the residence of George Wilder, living near the depot where he was made as comfortable as possible under the circumstances.- When all was in readiness the operation was performed by Dr. Robinson and Dr. McClure, assisted by Dr. McDowell and Dr. Anderson. He seemed to endure the operation as well or better than was expected and hopes are entertained at this writing that he may recover. His home is at Aurora, Ill., where it is said he has a wife and mother living. Here is another warning to people to be aware of all attempts to get on or off a train while in motion- a warning we hope that will be heeded by all those who read of this most terrible accident.

School Election.
The annual meeting of the independent school district of Mt. Pleasant for the election of two directors as the successors of J.T. Woods and Milo Hobart, whose terms are about to expire, and for the transaction of the business of the district will be held at room number five central building on Monday, March 10th, 1879. The polls will be open from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. of said day, the business meeting is to be at 2 p.m.

Obituary.
    McCLARY- Died in this city, on Sunday morning, March 2, 1879, M. Ellen McClary in the 22d year of her age.
    Miss McClary was born in Merrimac county, New Hampshire, May 15, 1857.- With her parents she came to this city June 1, 1863. She graduated at our High School in June 1874, and was soon after employed as a teacher in the Central building. After the erection of the Centennial school building she was elected the principal of No. 2 in said building, which position she held at the time of her death.
    Miss McClary was a fine scholar, and excellent teacher, conscientious and true in all the relations of life. In her death the whole community will feel her loss. Her deeply afflicted mother, brother and relatives have the sympathy of all.
    The solemn and impressive funeral services took place from the residence of her mother on south Main street on Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The high esteem in which she was held in our city was attested by the numbers present on this occasion. The teachers with whom she was associated, the pupils of her own school and a large circle of friends were present to pay their last tribute of respect to her precious memory. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Sharp, pastor of the Congregational church, assisted by Rev. W. D. Cole.

Better Butter
We received by the hand of Mr. C.E. Clark, three samples rolls of butter from the dairy of Benj. Hershey, of Muscatine, - that gentleman who attended our dairyman's convention will remember. We gave it a thorough test by that reliable old rule "about the proof of the pudding." Now we will not say that it was the best butter ever made in the state because we have not had a change to test it all- and further when butter gets up to that grade- we shall doubt our ability to judge of any special superiority different samples might possess. But we can very confidently say that "it was a thing of beauty" and a joy forever as long as it lasted. When all the butter makers in the state make as good an article we promise that neither by "tongue or pen" will we ever say another word about butter-making.

Salem.
Editors-Free Press.
    The weather indications are that this is positively the month of March, the road are in bad condition, so much so that the huckster wagons from this place were five days making the trip o and from Keokuk last week, distance of 40 miles. We think this would be a good time to solicit aid for the Ft. Madison railroad.
    The Hon. John Vanvalkenburg and Mr. Sample, attorneys from Ft. Madison, have been in this place for several days past taking depositions in the Ben Johns and Welpton suit, and the prospects are that some one will be left with $800 or $1,000 costs to pay.
    A few days ago our village was almost turned topsy turvy by the announcement that Joseph Beasley and wife and others that claim to belong to and represent positively the old time society of friends had arrived and desired to hold a series of religious meetings in Salem. They were refused the use of the Friend's meeting house in this place, as we understand because they did not bring with them the proper credentials. Their friends obtained the Baptist church for their use and in it they held their meetings while there.
    The old time friends had hardly got out of town when a much greater commotion was created by the appearance of half a dozen ladies on our streets bearing in their hands, and soliciting signers to the same, petitions to our county supervisors praying them not to grant to anyone of our place a license to sell intoxicating liquors of any kind. They claim to have obtained the signatures of almost two-thirds of the legal voters of the corporation and consequently they hope no license for that purpose can be obtained for the coming year.
    Our town has been particularly blessed the last month with public entertainments of various kinds, among which we notice the "Cricket on the Hearth" exhibition by the Demosthenes League and two exhibitions by rooms three and four of district school. All were crowded with patrons and gave excellent satisfaction.
    Some time ago Christopher Greenup, a son-in-law of Jonathan Osbun went from this place to Rome to engage in the business of hauling wood. One day last week he slipped and fell under the wagon and the hind wheel ran over him while there was three-fourths of a cord of wood on the wagon. He was taken to his boarding house, strange to say, yet alive; his wife and friends were sent for, Dr. Siveter, of this place, was called to visit him. He was conscious and could talk all the time but seemed to fear he could not get well. Dr. Siveter told him he thought he would get up, that seemed to raise his spirits immediately, and he began to improve apparently and hopes are now entertained that he will recover.     DEBEO.
    March 8, 1879.

Sheriff's Sale.
    By virtue of a special execution to me directed from the District Court of Henry county, State of Iowa, I will expose to sale at Public Auction, to the highest bidder, for cash in hand, at the Court House Door, in Mount Pleasant, Henry County, State of Iowa, on the
    Twenty-first day of March, 1879
at 10 1/2 o'clock A.M., the following described Real Estate, to wit:
    Lot number eleven (11) in section number sixteen being a sub-division of said section into Lot, preparatory to a sale thereof for school purposes.
    Also the following seven acres off the east side of lot number ten (10) in said section.
    Also that part of number 7 in said section which lies on the south side of the branch popularly known as Snipe Run, commencing at the southwest corner of lot number 7 aforesaid, and running due north to the said branch, thence with said branch eastward and up said branch to an elm tree where the line dividing between lot number 7 and lot number 10 crosses said branch, thence westward following in the line dividing lots number seven and lots number 10 to the place of beginning, containing eighteen acres in all, being the Brewery property and so known in township 71 range 6 in Henry county, Iowa.
    Taken as the property of George Weith & Valentine Kammerer to satisfy an execution in favor of Henry Naw & Wm. Pfferman against George Weith & Valentine Kammerer for the sum of seven thousand nine hundred and two and 50-100 dollars and interest and costs.
    Mt. Pleasant, Feb. 19, 1879.
PALMER & PALMER, Attorneys for Plaintiff.
J.R. DAVIDSON, Sheriff of Henry County.

The Free Press
Mount Pleasant, Henry, Iowa
March 13, 1879

Local Matters

-P.F. Campbell makes daily shipments of butter to St. Louis.
-Talbot has nicely made calf boots for $2.
-Jno. M. Abraham shipped three cars of cattle and one of hogs to Chicago yesterday.
-Elijah Binford a resident of Baltimore township died on Thursday morning March 6th, 1879, aged about fifty-five years.
-Mr. Tomlinson, Salem, has added to his stock, books, stationary, wall paper, window blinds and fixtures.
-Mrs. Goolden will soon remove her millinery goods to the room below just vacated by Shubert.
-A gain we have a post office at Oakland. This is a great convenience and we hope the good people will not again be deprived of it.
-Ho! for Leadville. M.N. Campbell started on Tuesday evening. He promises to tell the readers of the FREE PRESS all about it when he gets settled.
-The Rev. Mr. Barton of Lancaster Penn. spent the Sabbath here, the guest of Dr. Wheeler. He occupied the Asbury pulpit on Saturday and Sunday evenings.
-Miss Ada Lapham sends from her distant home in California one years advance payment for two copies of the FREE PRESS.
-S.W. Garvin has in stock a splendid stock of carpets which he is selling very fast. He will have something to say in reference to goods and prices next week.
-Hon. John S. Woolson will deliver the address before the Red Ribbon club at their hall, next Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock.
-Hugo Beyer is full of business preparing his seeds for the spring trade, and filling the orders that come in. His seeds are reliable his customers think and the best offered in the markets.
-Miss Alice Clark, assisted by Miss Sadie Turner, gives a concert at Red Ribbon Opera House this Thursday evening. General admission 25 cents; Reserved seats 35 cents; for sale at H.N. Crane's.
-W.P. Howe made an enthusiastic temperance address Tuesday night at Prairie Gem Chapel. Quite a number signed the pledge. Friday next he Mr. Howe goes on a regular Bontecou tour of three western part of county.
-Matt Croy, of Fairfield, form and after the first of April, will have at the Fair Ground in this city his two blooded horses, "Iron Duke" and "Beecher." He assures us that these horses are so widely known that they need no introduction only to publish the fact that they will be at the Fair Ground for the season.
-Wm. Gladden has opened a farm implement store under Red Ribbon Hall, a few doors west of Saunders' Bank, with a full line of first class goods, including Buckeye mowers and reapers, John Deere Moline plows, sulkys, and cultivators, wagons, drain tile, sewing machines, corn planters, check rowers, etc. etc. Give him a call.
-A.S. Hunter at the square dealing store on the west side has in this week his announcement for his spring stock of goods and prices to which he asks the attention of the FREE PRESS readers. His stock is complete and he assures us that his prices beat them all. However this may be, one thing is certain, Hunter is a square, reliable dealer, and will every time give his customer, his worth of their money.

PERSONAL
-Mrs. Haw of Ottumwa was in this city a few days of last week the guest of Mrs. A.T. Brooks visiting her sister Miss Bowen.
-Mrs. Will Penn of Des Moines is spending a few days here with her mother Mrs. Martin.
-Miss Disbro a graduate of the class of '75, now a vigorous medical student, was in this city last Sabbath.
-Miss Mary Allen started for Omaha on Wednesday morning, where she expects to spend the spring and probably the summer.
-Mr. Homer Pershing, formerly an I.W.U. student was in this city on Tuesday.- He left for the western part of the state Tuesday evening and expects to start for Oregon next week.
-Marion Holland loaded up his portable earthly possessions to day and started for Waterville, Kansas.

TIPPECANOE
     Stock of all kinds in is as good condition as usual at this time of the year and plenty of feed to take them through to warm weather.
     Times are about the same here as in other parts of the country; our produce and stock is so low that it is all a farmer can do to raise enough money to pay [newspaper crumpled away on a few words] but there is two items that keeps up as high as ever, which is our taxes and our officers salaries. They are up to the highest notch. I am glad to see a general move throughout the entire county for the reduction of salaries of our officers, we pray that all will assist in keeping the ball a rolling until there is a change for the better accomplished. We see that the King of Bashan has put on his armor, and has blown his trumpet for reform, so we say live forever, O King Selah.
     A few words about our religious matters. There has been three protracted meetings in this part of the township. One held at a place called Oak Ridge near Jay's mill on Cedar Creek. We understand about forty made a profession of religion, I have not learned how many united with the church which was the Winebernerian and Quakers together. Also the Baptist church west of us had a great revival. The pastor J. Lee was assisted by a Mr. Blackledge of Salem township. About thirty-five professed and three joined the church. Also a Mr. Judd of the Protestant Methodist held a meeting three miles south of Rome at Oak Leaf school house, about seventy five professed and about sixty joined the church. People of all ages, from the old grey headed to the youth of twelve bowed to the yoke of the Savior.- May the good work continue untill all shall know the ways of the Lord and will bow to His scepter. So you see, Mr. PRESS that the hard winter has not been spent in vain, but I will close for my letter is too long already.   S. BERRY. March 1st, 1879.

SWEDESBURG.
    Times are rather lively here.
    Dr. Porter is driving around in a fine new carriage.
    Mr. and Mrs. White have made a visiting trip to Greenfield, Adair county. They returned thinking Swedesburgh about the right place after all.
    There is some talk of a new store to be kept at Mr. Abrahamson's old stand.
    The Odd Fellows gave a reunion supper at the hall Wednesday evening the 26th.- Old winter gave us a parting clincher about that time, that somewhat disconcerted their plans. Yet a goodly number faced the cold and had a good time. The labor of arranging for the affair was promptly and cheerfully performed by those living nearest. The supplies were brought in ready prepared and the table loaded with an abundant, substantial and tempting repast, of which about seventy-five partook. The evening passed quickly and pleasantly away in friendly greetings and social converse, together with some very short speeches and a little singing.
     Since the last reunion there has been some changes. I think almost everyone missed the face and presence of Mrs. Connor (deceased). She was a gentle, diffident woman and her presence was always felt for good and her friends were many and warm. Also of Dr. Shidler, who labored so hard and faithfully that the last one might be a success and all might have a good time. The absence of these and others cast a passing shadow of gloom now and then. But pleasure ruled the hour, the juvenites especially having a regular jolly time.     BETTIE.     February 28, 1879

Facts and Figures.
Every one of the more than 315,000 Charter Oak Stoves now in the hands of as many house keepers have proved eminently practicable, easily kept in order, doing all kinds of cooking quickly, cleanly and with great economy of fuel and labor.

Obituary.
TRITES. Died at Harlan, Shelby Co, Iowa, on Thursday, March 6, 1879, after a short illness of three days, Coralie, daughter of G.D. Trites, aged 22 years.
This was one of the cases around which everything seems to cluster. The deceased with her sister were teaching school at Harlan; she was taken with measles, and died so suddenly that her friend, Miss Emma Howard from this city, who was taking care of her, had no thought of danger until she was dying.- They immediately telegraphed to her father who was in Missouri, and requested him to break the news to the family here and to meet them here. Getting no response they tried twice more; and still getting no answer, Miss Howard wrote out a dispatch for the gentleman who came with the body to send when he got to Ottumwa, where they had to wait for connections, to Rev. Mr. Buettel who lives next door to the family, to inform them of her death and that the body would arrive on the Saturday morning train. The despatch was left at the office in Ottumwa between 4 and 5 o'clock p.m., but was not received at the depot office here until 11:20 that night, and for some cause the despatch was not sent to the family till 10 o'clock Saturday morning, the body arriving on the morning express. The reason Mr. Trites did not get the telegram is that he was at work for Ketcham Brothers and was at a private office of Ketcham Brothers which received only business despatches for that company.- Mr. Trites, when notified from here, did not come home, but went directly to his sick daughter who is now doing well and soon expected home.

Distressing Suicide.
    MARSHALL, Iowa, March 8th, 1879.
    Mr. George Hebel a farmer residing in Wayne township, Henry county, about four miles east of Marshall, committed suicide by taking Strychnine at about eight p.m. on Thursday last, death taking place about one hour after he took the fatal dose. his sufferings during that interval of one hour were terrible to behold. Spasms occurring at frequent intervals until death came to his relief.
    The particulars of this sad case are about as follows: Mr. Hebel came to Marshall Thursday morning, purchased some Strychnine at the drug store ostensibly for the use of killing rats. He called at several other places of business, and nothing unusual was noticed in his conversation or actions by any one. After a short stay he left Marshall for home. In the afternoon he attended the funeral of Mrs. Conrad a near neighbor and returned home after services were over. Nothing strange or uncommon was noticed of him by any of the family, unless that he was a little more cheerful than usual on that day. About eight o'clock he retired to an upper room but shortly afterward called for some coffee, which he got and drank and returned to his couch. Soon after a noise of distress was heard by his wife below, who at once went up to ascertain the cause, when she found her husband in spasms. Help was called in as speedily as possible, and a young man was sent to Marshall for medical aid, which, however came too late, he having died before the physician reached there. He confessed to his wife and others present to having taken the poison and told them where to find the remainder of the fatal dose. He confessed that he had done wrong in taking it and earnestly prayed that God might forgive him.
    Mr. Hebel was a kind husband and father, strictly honest, quiet, peaceable and inoffensive, and by strict industry and economy had accumulated enough of this world goods to live quite comfortable.- He was considered a consistent christian, and himself and family took an especial interest in the protracted meetings which had been in progress in that neighborhood for some weeks past and which were still going on at the time of this sad occurrence. The causes which have led to this sad occurrence as near as can be ascertained are as follows: Mr. Hebel has been in very poor health for many years past; a terrible cough with which he has been afflicted for many years, and from relief of which he had long since given up all hope, kept growing worse until he could not longer do any hard work, and being naturally of an active disposition, this, with no hope of any relief, brought on a melancholy train of thoughts, which finally determined him to seek relief from his earthly suffering in hope of a better world beyond. Mr. Hebel leaves a family, wife and seven children, one, a daughter, was married about a week before her father's death.     W.

CORONER'S REPORT.
    State of Iowa, Henry County,- ss.
    An inquest held at the residence of George Hebel, late deceased, in Wayne township, Henry county, Iowa, on the 7th day of March 1879, before M.M. Cook J.P. and acting coroner, upon the body of George Hebel, there lying dead, by the persons whose names are here to subscribed, they being sworn to inquire into all the circumstances leading to the death of said George Hebel.
    The said jurors upon their oaths do say that on the 6th day of March, 1879, at the residence of said George Hebel, deceased, in Wayne township, Henry county, State of Iowa, the said George Hebel came to his death by taking a dose of poison, supposed to be strychnine, and that the said George Hebel administered said poison to himself and by his own hand, thereby causing death.
    In testimony whereof, the said jurors have set their hands this 7th day of March, 1879.
    Jurors   JOEL ZINGG, JOHN HOWENSTEIN, L.J. MILLER.

Fatal Accident.
    Another accident at Big Creek bridge on Monday afternoon. Mr. James Nevill overseer of the iron work, fell backwards, a distance of 20 or 30 feet, striking his head upon some timbers. He was then taken up unconscious, and lived till brought to the depot in this city. Mr. Nevill has been long in the employ of the C.B. & Q. and was very popular with both his employers and all those who worked under him.
    He was always specially careful of his men. His rule was never to send a man to a dangerous place but go himself. His last words were a caution to a man below him not to incur any risk.
    The cause of his fall was than under him at the time, John Driscill was at work some eight feet from the ground and by some accident he fell; Nevill saw him and it so affected him that he forgot where he was and made a mis-step.
    He was about 30 years of age. His home was in Winona, Minn. His brother arrived and took charge of the body last night.

School Election
    The annual election of two school directors for the independent district in this city, on last Monday resulted as follows:
Whole number of votes cast              249
James Harlan received                      232
J.W. Palm                                        179
George C. Van Allen                         77
Scattering                                            6
    James Harlan and J.W. Palm, receiving a majority of the votes were the legally elected candidates.

WAYNE
Suicide of Mr. Hebel.
Editors Free Press:-
    A very sad affair occurred near here on Thursday night last. A Mr Hebel living on section six of this township, who had been in poor health for some time, put an end to his own life on last Thursday night. In the afternoon of that day he attended the funeral of Mrs. Jacob Conrad (who had been married just one year on that day) and one who conversed with him at that time told me he was in his usual mood. But on his way home he passed through Marshal and bought some poison. At about eight o'clock in the evening he went to the barn and took the fatal drugs, and then went up stairs to bed. But he soon felt the effects of the poison and called the family to his bedside and told what he had done, and that they would find the little bottle on a brace mortice in the stable. The bottle was found as described. He lived but one hour. He gave a reason for the act that he had become tired of life. He was about fifty-five years of age and leaves a wife and six children, most of them grown. He was in comfortable circumstances, owning two farms.- Having been employed for several years as an auctioneer, he was quite generally and favorably known.
    Mr. William Brown a citizen of this community for more than twenty years, died this afternoon. He had been suffering for some time with dyspepsia. Was fifty-six years of age and highly respected as a citizen. He was an Englishman by birth.
    Mr. John Reed left for the west on Thursday last expecting to meet Mrs. Wm. Lambing at Malvern and thence to Webster county, Nebraska, their new homes.- May their future never be darkened by grasshoppers.
    A band of about twenty-five Indians camped near here in February and stayed about two weeks. The men spent much of their time killing game such as coons, minks, and skunks, while the squaws canvassed the country far and near for the coarser articles of diet, such as flour, pork, fruit, etc.; and I believe their were pretty successful in their efforts.
     Mr. and Mrs. H.C. Hammond were made unusually happy last Thursday in the receipt of a package weighing nine pounds avoirdupois. Some people might call it Ishmael, but they may choose to call it by some other name.   C.A.S. March 8, 1878.

SALEM.
    Editors Free Press:-
    A free concert was given here Wednesday eve. It was conducted by Mr. Wm. Phar; the singing, by the Misses Dora, Clara and Hattie Rogers, Prof. and Mrs. Price, Jeptha Fisher, Allie Gibson and David Burden was very good. There was also a reading by Prof. Price. We understand that Mr. Gibson sang in public for the first time at this; if so he did remarkably well. The concert broke up at about half past nine o'clock and it will be remembered as the most entertaining event of the season.
    A series of meetings are being held at the Friend's church now, the preaching is being conducted by Charles Huchinson; as we have not attended we can say nothing more about them.
    Levi Gregory has moved his "store" three doors farther north on the same street.- The new store room is well lighted and Levi is as affable as ever.

The Free Press
Mount Pleasant, Henry, Iowa
March 20, 1879

Mr. Woolson's lecture at Red Ribbon hall Sunday afternoon, was a plain, forcible and logical argument in favor of sobriety and temperance in all things. Not calculated to raise any great enthusiasm, but one of the kind that the more one thinks it over the more convincing it will appear.

An error in printing the communication of S. Berry, Tippecanoe township, in our last week's issue made him to say that in the Baptist church west of him they had a revival in which 35 professed religion, and three joined the church. It should have read 33 joined the church, which makes quite an important difference.

We hear inquiries for garden and flower seeds with Hugh Beyer's stamp. A box of these seeds should be placed in every grocery and hardware store in town. Patronize home enterprise when you can get a more reliable article and fully as cheap as to buy that imported from other states.

The spring of the year is the time to oil your harness. Neatsfoot and Fish oil are both good and it is very important you get a pure article. Call and see the samples at Van Cise's drug store before buying elsewhere, it will pay you. The spring of the year is also the best time to feed Conditon Powder to your horses. This firm manufactures the Dexter Powder which takes the lead.

R.D. Allen has removed his merchant tailoring establishment to the rooms just vacated by Mr. Pennington formerly occupied by H.N. Crane's jewelry store. He has nicely fitted up a salesroom and cutting department below, while up stairs he expects to keep a large force of hands employed manufacturing. He has a fine display of clothes and can get up a suit warrented to fit, on short notice. Remember the new quarters north of the National State Bank.

Ex-mayor Jericho has just been appointed a justice of the peace for Center township by the township trustees, to fill a vacancy caused by J.S. Wilkins failing to qualify. If there are any pining to have justice done them or are anxious to have justice done to someone else, we have no doubt by applying to the ex mayor they will get it with promptness and dispatch, and it will be satisfactory to at least one of the parties every time.

Dan Taylor, for lively, genial good nature, has few equals. He is sunshine with the darkest surroundings, and his will and presence is sufficient to overpower the crookedest, knottiest subjects-in any wood pile. In the old cotton picking days he was worth his weight in gold, and in these days of fiat money he can do better than that. In fact we have hopes that he will make a good democrat sometime and recognize his friends wherever he sees them.

Mr. Cary's family left here on Tuesday evening for their new home in Shenandoah, Iowa, where Mr. Cary has entered into merchandising.

S.R. Parker at Kansas City sent his father J.J. of this city two very handsome red birds, which came through in good order, looking bright and beautiful.

Mrs. Goolden has fitted up the lower part of her store for her new millinery department where she is now established and ready to greet her customers for the spring trade.

Messrs. Harlan and Satterthwaite were appointed by the school board on Monday evening to look after the matter of the proposed new school house and report at the next meeting.

The Carnival next week will comprise all forms of attraction, music, dramatic scenes, tableaux, pantomimes, a grand march and a grand costume sociable with ice cream and other good things.

M.W. Kennedy of Scott township brought an egg into our sanctum from a light Brama hen measuring 61/2 by 81/2 inches. If any hen wants to get her name in print let her try to beat it.

W.N. Coleman, a former resident here, lately in the employ of Pilger Brothers, Burlington, has absconded, leaving business, wife and two children and numerous unpaid debts behind. We glean from Wednesday morning's Hawkeye.

W. Shubert has moved his Boot and Shoe Store to Jefferson street, No. 31, Thompson's old stand, next door to Mrs. Herrick's restaurant. He is receiving new goods and intends to sell cheap. Give him a call before you buy.

SALEM.
    Salem is moving steadily without much excitement, but is alive and ready to act promptly when necessity demands it and will do her whole duty in regard to a railroad or any other enterprise that will benefit our town. We need a railroad and must soon have one. Our citizens are as well posted in current events and literature as any town of its size. Our merchants, doctors, lawyers and mechanics are full average in intelligence and good practical common sense.
    The public schools are closed and the citizens are now talking of electing three new officers and wish to select men that will raise the standard of our schools much higher than ever attained, by affording to the teachers and pupils greater facilities for obtaining first class common education, for that if of the most practical benefit to the pupils in after life. We want directors that are alive on the subject of education and well qualified to lead in the best methods of instruction.- We would suggest as a stimulus the monthly examination of the pupils.
    Last Monday Salem elected its town council. W.B. Walker was re-elected mayor. With five councilmen we may now look for peace and order.
    Every Friday evening in the M.E. church there is a public debate on the current questions of the day. Much interest is awakened in them and we predict good results from such free and open discussion. Among its prominent members are, the M.E. pastor, Dr. L.J. Rogers, Mayor Walker, D. Burden, J.M. Triplett, M.L. Crew, W. Bailey and Jos. Osbun.
    W. Kettle has made a nice addition to his porch.
    In common with others I paid M. Pleasant a visit to pay my taxes and found a small interest attached to present tax; being very well acquainted with C.V. Arnold, I ventured to ask him, what checks, if any, they had a against the possibility of "gobbling" the interest on delinquent taxes. Instead of repelling, he kindly invited me into the sanctum and showed me a pile of books, in a very clear and conclusive manner the utter impossibilities of the county losing a single cent of tax or interest because of the very complete system of checks in their mode of keeping books. We think this much is due the county officers as perhaps others besides myself have wondered what became of the interest on delinquent taxes.
    The public park is looking like it has passed through the dreary winter, with leaves covering the ground and the green grass beneath quietly pushing its tender blades upwards and the trees full of buds are rapidly swelling in consequence of the very warm weather. The little birds are happy and sing softly and sweetly, "welcome spring." We wish some feller would run that cow out of the park and charge the town twenty-five cents.
    McCartney is selling organs right along in and around Salem if it is hard times.
    Whittier college is in a flourishing condition and well merits the larger patronage it has received this winter and reflects great credit on Miss Horney's successful efforts and labors in elevating the reputation of far famed Whittier college. C.C. Pick, former principal, of W.C. is now here among his numerous friends where doubtless his feelings will be mingled with sad and pleasant reflections of the past.
    Many elderly Friends have for a long time been dissatisfied with the manner of conducting public worship in the Friend's meeting house at Salem, and peace being a distinguishing principle of said society they have been absented themselves from meeting rather than contend for their rights with those members who disregard the good order that characterized an orthodox Quaker meeting and who have abandoned the principles and practices of the society of Friends. Last 1st day (Sunday) at 2 p.m. they held their first public meeting for worship in the Baptist meeting house, and expect to continue a meeting for worship according to the order of Friends at said place. The meeting was largely attended and was addressed by Harvey Derbyshire, a venerable pillar of the church, on the excellencies of pure spiritual worship, which was followed by a fervent prayer from him that God's richest blessings might rest on the people of Salem. Job Smith made a few remarks on Divine Worship, also Thomas and Lydia Siveter.
    Levi Gregory has moved into his new store, nicely fitted with counter and shelves by W. North, a neat piece of mechanism, and his store filled with many fancy goods. Just walk down and see them, they won't hurt your eyes.
    JOHN COLLATT.

ROME.
Saloons to be Re-established.
    In the first place, spring has come to Rome and we are having glorious weather with blue birds and meadow larks singing all through it. I think we shall soon find wild flowers on the hill slopes, and strawberries cannot be very far off. But spring has brought us some things less pleasant than birds and sunshine with prospective flowers and strawberries, and I must tell you about it.
    I believe there is an election here every spring, at least there was one this time, and however uninteresting a fact that may be to most people, it was certainly quite the contrary to the Romans. It is a matter of supreme astonishment to many, that men, who pretend to be respectable, who pretend to care for the best interests, and growth of our town in all good directions, could struggle so vehemently for the establishment of such monstrous nuisances as saloons- wide-open gates to perdition, as they know them to be, no one can pretend that they are any benefit to any place and it is equally evident that they are an unspeakable curse. During he last year we have had no saloons and the better condition of things has been quite marked; but now, through the most strenuous efforts has been quite marked; but now, through the most strenuous efforts and by some illegal voting, the saloon party has gained the victory and it is probable that the last state of Rome will be as bad if not worse than the first , and we shall have an opportunity to enjoy the presence of the scum and dregs, too, of our neighbor towns as well as of the country round about is which the saloons are certain to attract.- If this miserable state of affairs were the deliberate choice of a majority of tax-paying Rome, it might be borne better, but it is not. The majority of men whose homes are in Rome would not thus disgrace themselves. It is enough to make Roman stones cry out. Without the aid of men who are here for only a few days or weeks at most, the saloon party would have been vanquished and it is a shame that these men who perhaps would have had the discretion to vote against wrong in their own homes, should be permitted to decide so vital a question for us who must bear the consequences. Dept. Sheriff Conner arrested one of the illegal voters here and had a warrant for another one but he escaped with some others who were in danger.- The report of the election here in last week's FREE PRESS is exciting some comment among us as the temperance ticket was not composed principally of non-taxpayers, while the saloon ticket has some on it who have never paid a cent of tax since they have been in Rome. However, the newly elected officers are rushing frantically about town trying to get somebody to swear them in, but I believe they have not yet succeeded. It is presumed they will and meanwhile Rome needs to be prayed for.
    A man belonging to Mr. Keefer's bridge crew was killed yesterday, by falling from the bridge over Big Creek. I did not learn his name or where his home is, but my heart aches for them who loved him. I wanted to give more of Rome's doings but my letter is too long.   RUTH.
    March 11th, 1879.

PERSONAL
- H.T. Bird is on a prospecting tour up on southern Minnesota.
- Fen. Pitcher was in town a few days last week. He is travelling for a firm in Beardstown, Ill.
- Mrs. S.S. Murphy of Keosauqua has been spending a week here with her mother, Mrs. Kibben.
-Miss Regia Bird who has been spending the winter visiting friends in Philadelphia and other parts of Pennsylvania returned home last Friday.
-Harlan J. Clark, of Indianola, is visiting his sister, Mrs. Lewelling, at the Reform School.
- Jesse Smith was in town on Thursday. His present post-office is Brookville, Jefferson county.

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Our good friends, ?.E. Sayles and J. ? Lehew, open out ? a new grocery store at Holcomb's old stand on north Main street. These young men are no strangers to the people of this county, and their strict integrity and well known business qualities make their success certain. They will from the start have their stock complete and will be pleased to greet all their old friends and many new ones too at their new quarters. The firm will do business under the name of Sayles & Lehew. They propose to adopt at the start and firmly adhere to the cash system.

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    Our new city council organized and held their first meeting on Monday evening. In the contested case between Hampton and Smith. Hampton was awarded the place. Wm. McCoy was re-elected city clerk.- Hugh McClure marshall; G.W. Trimble street commissioner, and T. Mathews weigh master. Thus we have a new marshall and a new street commissioner and as a new broom sweeps clean we may hope our new officers will disappoint nobody. Mr. Craig has left a good record as marshal having a reputation for superior skill and executive ability in the detection of crime and the arrest of criminals in other places than this; and Mr. Higgins has given good, faithful service as street commissioner.
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     The long agony is over and ward No. 1 knows who they elected councilman on the third of March. The votes as re-canvassed by the city council as we are informed, showed that J.W. Hampton had 170 straight votes, Simon Smith 169, there were three scratched votes. One of these scratched votes was allowed to Hampton. On the last ballot for marshal Craig had the votes of Hampton, Tiffany and Pyle, and McClure the rest. George Trimble elected street commissioner, all of which reminds one of the saying, "New Lords, new Laws."
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     A Dicken's Carnival.
    Under the auspices of the L.L.A. will be held at the Red Ribbon Opera House Friday evening, March 28th. Admission 25 cts. No extra charge for reserve seats. Seats may be selected at H.N. Crane's on and after the 21st. Over one hundred characters will be presented from nine books. A characteristic scene from each book, with tableaux and pantomimes, music and a grand march. The whole to wind up with ice cream and a general good time, when the audience will have the rare opportunity of mingling socially with the queer characters whose names have so long been household words. Doors open at seven, performance begins at eight sharp.
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MARRIED.

McKIBBEN-THOMPSON.- On Thursday evening, the 13th inst., by Rev. D.S. Tappan, Mr. G.W. McKibben, of Odebolt, and Miss Flora Thompson of this city.

BATES-MORROW.- On March 12, by Rev. L.F. Rowley near Wayne, Mr. M.W. Bates and Miss Mary J. Morrow.

OLD SETTLER'S MEETING.
The Old Settlers' meeting met at the Court house and organized by choosing P.C. Tiffany, chairman and J.D. Williford and Wm. McCoy secretaries. After trying for some time to effect an organization it became evident that nothing answering to the prefectness desired could be obtained. After consultation a committee of one from each township, was appointed to look over his township and enroll all now residents of that township who had settled any where in the state prior to 1846, the time Iowa was admitted as a state. That committee is composed as follows:
Baltimore- T.A. Box.
Center- L.G. Palmer.
Canaan- J. Redfern.
Jefferson. - C.W. Payne.
Jackson- J.C. Garretson.
Marion- J.W. Bird.
New London- S. Dover.
Salem- S. Frazier.
Scott- John McCully.
Tippecanoe- L. Fairchild.
Trenton- J.C. Green.
Wayne- C.A. Smith.
There was a good attendance and a lively interest; and some amusing incidents occurred. The name of Mrs. Williford was announced as the first resident white woman in Henry county. The lady was requested to rise, which she promptly did; no one present we think but felt proud of having our country honored by so worthy a pioneer. Soon a gentleman rose and said the first meal he ever ate in Henry county near fifty years ago, was given him by this lady at her new home, when he came to look over the land, and one of the main articles of diet was the same Caleb and Jeshua found when they went up to spy out the promised land and bring back a good report. The meeting also had the privilege of seeing the first white girl baby, now a woman, ever born in the county. But all these incidents and more will appear when the organization is perfected and a report made. The meeting adjourned subject to a call of the president. When the meeting is called it will be an interesting one to all the people of this county.

Newbold and Houseman.
Mr. Houseman has just returned from the east where he had been purchasing goods for the spring trade and they are now receiving a large and carefully selected stock of all the new styles and novelties of the season, both staple and fancy. These goods they are enabled to offer at lower prices than any ever before brought to this market. Of groceries their stock is full and complete and they cannot fail to satisfy the most particular customer.-- They will be pleased to have their friends call and see the new goods, feeling confident that they can fill the bill as to price and quality and that no one will ever regret their examination of the stock of goods in the store of Newbold & Houseman.

Burning of Wm. Canby's Residence.
The dwelling of Wm. Canby, one half mile west of Winfield was burned to the ground with all its contents between eight and nine o'clock on Friday evening March 14th last. Mr. and Mrs. Canby with their child had left the house early in the evening to make a neighborly visit at Michael Myres, intending to spend the evening. The fire was first discovered by Ed. Nash. AS soon as he could get to the house he opened the door and the stove on the lower floor had fallen into the cellar. Mr. and Mrs. Canby soon returned with other of the neighbors but nothing at all could be saved and very soon after the house and all its contents was destroyed. It is supposed that the fire may have caught from a coal or spark thrown out from the stove on to the carpet. Mr. Canby before leaving had taken out a stick from the stove and threw it out doors. Either this or the draft may have been left open and sparks or coal dropped on the carpet. The house was almost new, a story and a half, built almost three years ago. It was insured for $600.00 in the Farmer's Mutual, and the contents for $400.00. This amount will promptly be paid by the company. This will number the second assessment for losses since the company was organized, Mr. Price being the first.

Iowa Old Press
Henry County