Iowa Old Press

Ottumwa Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 1, 1903

"UP SOAP CREEK"
Des Moines River Steamer Got Lost in the Fog -- Capt. "Bill" Phelps Coins Phrase
Many Boats Plied the Des Moines River in the Early Times- Carried Freight and Passengers- List of Boats.
In the early fifties there was a steamer on the Des Moines called "The Maid of Iowa." She was navigated by a jolly old captain named "Bill" Phelps. One dark, foggy night during the high water season, Phelps' boat was coming up the Des Moines with a heavy load of freight and passengers. The captain had been asleep for hours. Finally after struggling against the current and through the fog for many hours, the pilot gave up and admitted that he was lost. The captain was a heavy sleeper and a bad man to wake up. Every one on the boat was out trying to decide where they were. Captain Phelps was dragged out, conducted on deck and was told that the boat was lost. He took a couple of turns around the deck and went out on the bow and peered long and deep into the fog. Then with a grunt of satisfaction he jerked out, "Up Soap Creek, by G__."
Captain Phelps' phrase was instantly taken up and for man years was in the most common usage.

A Very Navigable Stream.
In those olden days the Des Moines river was a very navigable stream during the spring months. Merchandise and passenger boats plied between Keokuk and Des Moines. Some seasons when the high water continued longer than usual some of the boats were able to make eighteen or twenty trips during the three or four months period. In those early days and especially during the high water season, practically all the merchandise was carried by boat. At that time the boat landing or port of Ottumwa was one of the most important and busiest points in Ottumwa. The arrival or departure of each boat was as carefully noted and
published as is the times of the trains today. In looking back over the files of the Courier there frequently appears an inventory of the cargo brought to the little city by each individual boat. The following is a list of the boats that in times past plied the waters of the Des Moines:
The Agatha, Capt. Lafferty, bringing up government supplies and the soldiers from Fort Sandford, May 1843.
Caleb Cope, Capt. Joseph Price.
Adda Hine, Capt. Gault.
Clara Hine, Capt. Patten.
Kentucky, Capt. J.C. Ainsworth.
John B. Gordon, Capt. W.H. Ferris.
Globe, Capt. F.C. McCune.
Luella, Capt. Morrison, Col. Morgan Capt. Peter Meyers.
Des Moines Belle. Capt. Tisdale, built in Des Moines in 1858. Made one trip to Fort Dodge.
Charley Rogers, Capt. F.E. Beers, Frank Davidson, pilot. Made several trips to Fort Dodge.
Flora Temple (a three decker) Capt. W. Farris.
Des Moines City, Capt. Robert Farris.
Badger State, Capt. D.C. Shebble.
The Alice, Capt. W.H. Farris.
The Defiance (captain unknown) owned by men at Red Rock.
Julia Dean, Capt. Lyon.
Jenny Lind, Capt. J.C. Ainsworth.
Ed Manning, Capt. Davis of Ottumwa.
The Skipper, Capt. Russell. Carried to their homes a portion of the general assembly of 1858.
The Michigan, Capt. J.W. Johnson.
The Nevada, Capt. W.H. Farris.
The Des Moines Valley (captain unknown)
Little Morgan (keel boat), Capt. T.C. Coffin.
N.L. Milburn, Capt. N.L. Milburn, built at Iowaville.
Revenue Cutter, Col. McQuiggan, owner; Capt. W.H. Farris.
George H. Wilson, (captain unknown), a very powerful boat.
Time and Tide, Capt. Charles Morrison.
S.B. Science, Capt. S.B. Clark.
Alexander Rodgers, Capt. Wilson.
The Pearl (keel boat) captain unknown
Providence (captain unknown)
The Maid of Iowa (captain) "Bill" Phelps navigated Soap one dark night by mistake, 1851.
Light, Capt. Richard Cave.
Pandodging, Capt. Sweazy, a home made boat.
New Georgetown, (captain unknown.)

PACKING NOT LARGE
Farmers are Holding Their Stock for an Increase in Price.
John Morrell and Co. Purchased 9499 Hogs the Present Week-Plant Does Not Work Over Time Now-
East End Items.

The number of hogs purchased the present week by John Morrell & Co was 9499. The price of this product at present is at the low figure of $4.90 per hundred weight. This price is not a drawing card to the many raisers of stock and it seems that the farmers are holding their hogs for an increase over this figure. The present price of hogs is the lowest it has been for the past two years and for this reason the killing is not as heavy as usual at this time. Overtime at the plant the past week has not been necessitated as often as it has previously and the usual hours of work are now being done.

Packing Shows a Slight Decrease.
A decrease of 500 hogs in the packing the present week is the result of the farmers holding their stock. Last week 9600 hogs were packed and this week it lacked just 500 of reaching that number. Although this number is considered fair packing, yet the immense packing of a month ago is nearly twice as large as the
present week's work.

East End Items.
-J. Hammit of Marshalltown was a visitor of his nephew, Zell Zimmerman, last week.
-Mrs. Mary Parkinson, who resides on East Main street, was in Mount Pleasant Thursday.
-M. Fisher, janitor of the dining room was called to Kirksville last Saturday by the sudden death of his sister.
-Harry Kendall, of the trimming room cut his fore finger on the left hand Wednesday, but is now able to be at work.
-Mrs. John Hammwalt, of Agency, was visiting at the home of Miss Sallie Walker, 279 Roemer street, Wednesday.
-Gus Dummler, of the beef killing department, who has been off duty for a few days on account of illness, is again at work.
-James Trenneman, foreman of the ice gang, left for London, Canada, yesterday, called there by the serious illness of his father.
-James Caughlan, of the killing department, who has been employed on a farm near Dahlonega, returned to his work Thursday.
-Charley Anderson, of the cutting department is building a new house on Morrell street, near the East End Presbyterian church.
-Isaac Richards, of the packing room, was compelled to quit work Monday on account of illness, but he is now able to be at work.
-Mrs. N.T. Sleight, who resides on Iowa avenue, will leave next Wednesday for Petoskey, Mich, where she will visit her parents.
-Levi Carter, who was injured last December by a hog hoist and who has been off duty since that time, returned to work Monday.
-Superintendent F.J. Bullock is in receipt of a letter from Walter Morrison, of the Boston branch house, in which he speaks of his brother, Arthur Morrison, who is now a sailor on the U.S.S. Buffalo and at home on a ten days' vacation. Both of these young men were formerly employed in the plan.
-Jesse Grier, who drives one of the retail market wagons, is filling the vacancy made by the absence of Orville Mason in the meat market.
-Robert Owens, who operates the elevator in the main building, was in Stillwell, Minn. last week. Mr. Owens returned to his work last Wednesday.
-A.B. Osler, a member of the picnic committee, is in Kirksville, Mo. today on business relative to the outing which will be held in that city Aug. 20.
-S.A. Gillum, janitor of the cottages, who has been suffering with appendicitis, is able to be about and left for Fairfield where he will make a visit with relatives.
-Rev. W.H. Rehord, pastor of the Chariton avenue Presbyterian church of Detroit, Mich., is a visitor at the home of Mr. and Mrs. T.D. Foster; corner Market and Fifth streets.
-Charley Anderson of the killing department, while rolling a tierce Thursday, had the misfortune of the pike pole in his knee. It is reported today that he is improving.
-Nathaniel Brier is confined to his home quite sick. Mr. Brier was assisting in moving a pump when the top broke off and hit him on the head. Later erysipelas set in and Mr. Brier is now confined to his home.
-The visitors at the plant the present week were: Mrs. Wm. Hoect, Mrs. L. Koenig, Mrs. Ina Hamilton, Geo. List, Stephen Roberts, all of this city, and Mrs. Ellem Hathaway of Cromwell, and Mrs. G. Fisher of St. Louis.
-Adam Lerche, who is employed in the killing department, had the misfortune of having his left elbow cut with a cleaver Wednesday. The injury has compelled Mr. Lerche to be away from his work, although he is improving rapidly.
-T.D. Foster has purchased a new automobile and will soon be using it. The machine is a Columbia Electric Runabout and will seat two people. It was purchased in Pittsburg, Pa., and was made by the Pope Manufacturing company of Hartford, Conn.
-C.E. Knight, who has been the operator for the Western Union in the main offices for over two years, has accepted a position as manager of the Postal Telegraph company at Iowa City. The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Knight regret their departure, but are glad that Mr. Knight's new position is a step higher and they wish him an abundance of success in his new location.

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello co. Iowa
August 5, 1903

Goes to Minnesota
Des Moines, Aug 5 -- Wesley Elkins, formerly of Clayton county, the young man whose conditional pardon was recommended by the last general assembly, and granted by the governor, is now out of the state for the first time in his career. He has gone to Prairie Grove, Minn., where he is spending the summer with his brother and sister on a farm. His brother and sister wanted him to come and see them and Governor Cummins granted the necessary permission, thinking it would benefit the young man physically to get an outing. Young Elkins will return to Iowa about September 1, and will resume his studies at Cornell college at Mt. Vernon, Iowa.

Old Settler Dead.
Thomas Crowley died at 6:35 o'clock last evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Kelley, 911 East Second street. The funeral will be held at the Sacred Heart Catholic church Thursday morning at 8:30 o'clock. The services will be conducted by Rev. Father James Foley. The interment will take place in Calvary cemetery. Mr. Crowley was born in Ireland and was 83 years of age. He came to Wapello county in 1858 and was one of the earliest settlers. He is survived by one son, John Crowley, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and two daughters, Mrs. John Kelly, at whose home the death occurred and Miss Maggie Crowley, who lived with her father at the home of her sister.

[transcribed by S.F., Sept. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 6, 1903

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Batavia [ Jefferson Co.]- Batavia, Aug. 6
- Jacob Martin left Monday for Bloomfield for a few days visit with his sister.
-W.J. McReynolds who has been quite ill for some time is slowly improving and will be able to be around in a few days again.
-Stephen Berrier has left for Marshal, Oklahoma, for a few weeks' visit with his brother, John, who lives there.
-Mrs. Maggie Smith has gone to Monmouth, Ill, where she intends to make her future home.
-Mrs. Geo. Alfred of Ottumwa is visiting her mother, Mrs. Al. Morrison.
-Quite a number of young folks attended Billies Helm's circus at Batavia Wednesday night.

Winchester [Van Buren Co.] -Winchester, Aug. 6
-Miss Stella Arnold was driving a horse one day last week when the horse stumbled, throwing her out of the buggy and bruising her considerably but no dangerously.
-Miss Ethel Hawbaker is visiting at the home of her uncle, Orion England, near Bloomfield.
-Threshing has begun here but is a light job this year.

Salem [Henry Co.] -Salem, Aug. 6
- Rev. Evi Sharplass was called home from Colorado last week by the serious illness of Mrs. Sharplass.
-A neat sum was realized from the social given by the M.E. society of the Congregational church at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Bliss Friday.
- Mr. and Mrs. Zach Ratliff and Mrs. Amelia Clauson left Tuesday for Kahoka, Mo., where they were called by the death of Mrs. Ratliff's father, J.M. Kramling. Mrs. Clauson returned home Friday.
-Mrs. Stillwell will soon move her new home at West Grove, which she recently purchased of J.M. Crosbie. -Royal Bogue is home from Chappeul, Mo. He will spend his vacation with Salem friends and in September will resume his work as one of the instructors in Chappell academy.
-Tuesday Enoch Berry and Byron Dawson shipped two carloads of hogs to Chicago.
-John Hayes has beautified his house by the addition of a porch and a new coat of paint.
-In a few weeks Miss Lydia Pool will leave for India where she will do missionary work.
-Miss Beatrice Arnold was a guest of Salem friends and relatives Wednesday and Thursday. Two weeks since Miss Arnold arrived from Kansas City where for several years she has been one of the efficient instructors in the Kansas City schools. She will spend the ensuing year at the home of her father, T.H. Arnold at Mt. Pleasant and will enjoy a much needed rest.
-Last week Mrs. W.K. Bunker was called to Topeka, Kans. by the illness of her uncle, George Humbert.
-Mrs. Havinhill is enjoying a visit with her sister, Miss Stearns and children from Aurora, Ill.

Chequest. [Van Buren Co.] Chequest, Aug. 5
- Miss Sadie Hissen of Leando, spent Sunday with her brother, Jesse and family in this place.
-James Poling recently had lightning rods put on his dwelling.
-Misses Amanda Groves, Alta Steel, Lulu Clayton and R.W.C. Harryman are attending the Van Buren county normal institute which convened at Keosauqua Monday, August 3.
-Messrs. Cleveland and Rex Rambo of Keosauqua were over Sunday guests of their cousin, G.C. Shaffer.

Sigourney. [Keokuk Co.] Sigourney, Aug. 5
- John Derine, a young man about 22 years of age was operated on Tuesday for appendicitis by Drs. Spilman of Ottumwa and Oliver of Sigourney. It is said things look favorable for his recovery.

Eddyville. [Wapello Co.] Eddyville, Aug. 5
- Mr. and Mrs. John Jones and their sons, John and Clyde of near Coalfield, leave Thursday for a three months' visit with their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Smeltzer of Los Angeles, Cal.
- Miss Eva Pidgeon left Monday for a two weeks' visit with her parents at Salem. After returning home she will go to St. Louis.
-Henry Criswell went to Albia Monday evening to fill a vacancy on the mail run between Albia and Albert Lea, Minn.
-Mr. and Mrs. David Hudson of Sand Ridge started overland for Hurdland, Mo., Monday to visit for a month with their daughters, Mesdames Robert and Will Kleinkoph and John Linderman and Miss Clara Hudson.
-Mrs. Al Roberts and son Otto leave Saturday for Spencerville, Colo. to spend the winter with Mrs. Roberts' sister, Mrs. Walker.
-Wesley Donegan and daughter, Miss Laura leave today for Denver, Colo., Colorado Springs, Glenwood, Ouray and other points in Colorado to spend a month with their son and brother, Herbert Donegan and with other relatives.
-Sol Phillips had his foot quite badly injured in Fais & Free's stone quarry Friday.
- W.P. Broderick has completed two new rooms at his residence on North Fifth street.
-George Chord visited over Sunday with his uncle, Daniel Chord at Oskaloosa.
- Mrs. Jennie Chetwood and family and Mrs. H.D. Criswell and family will go to Avery Monday to attend the golden wedding of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.B. Skeels.

Leando. [Van Buren Co.] Leando, Aug. 5
- Frank Nelson started for Monrovia, California Tuesday to join his wife and son to spend the fall and winter.
- Mrs. J.R. Huston is visiting with her daughter, Mrs. J.O. Boyer, for a short time.
-Harvey Hewitt is on the sick list.
-Mrs. W.M. Sullivan is spending a few days with her daughter, Mrs. Jane Hoops.
-Mrs. Boyer of Keosauqua is visiting with her brother, W.H. Harryman, this week.

Belknap. [Davis Co.] Belknap, Aug. 5
- Mrs. J.S. Dillon and son Glenn spent a few days last week with Mrs. Dillon's parents at Eldon.
-Allen Thompson of Ottumwa spent a couple of days here last week with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Thompson.
- Willis, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. Otis Puckett who has been quite ill is reported better.
- Wright Clarke of near Bloomfield has been visiting with his sister, Mrs. Will Kneedler of this place.
-Mr. and Mrs. R.E. Anderson and children attended the funeral at Floris Sunday of Mrs. Frank Heady.
- Rev. W.B. Ireland has announced that Rev. W.S. Gardner of Moulton expected to fill the M.E. pulpit at this place next Sunday at 3 p.m.
-Wednesday evening July 29, being the fifteen birthday anniversary of Miss June Lockman, fifteen couples gathered in response to assist in celebrating the occasion. Refreshments were served and an enjoyable evening was passed.
- Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Heady and children attended the funeral of Mrs. Frank Heady at Floris, Sunday.

Floris. [Davis Co.] Floris, Aug. 6
- Mrs. Younkin and son Floyd of Kansas who have been visiting relatives at this place left Albia Sunday evening.
-Juaniata Minnick who has been attending school in Bloomfield came home Monday evening.
-Miss Daisy Lyon left on No. 4 Sunday for Muscatine where she will visit with relatives.
-Mrs. Mate Quigley of Oskaloosa attended the funeral services of Mrs. Frank Heady Sunday.

Douds. [Van Buren Co.] Douds, Aug. 5
- Mrs. Geo. W. Findlay of Keosauqua, who has been visiting with relatives here, returned to her home Tuesday.
-Mrs. W.H. Morrison of Leando, who has been visiting the past few months with her daughter, Mrs. Florence Moore, in Colorado, returned home on Tuesday, her daughter accompanying her for a return visit.
-Harvey Gilbert of Kilbourne visited Monday and Tuesday with relatives at this place and Leando.

Woolson. [Jefferson Co.] Woolson, Aug. 5
- R.W. Shelley visited a daughter in Minneapolis, Minn., recently.
- Miss Hughs of Ottumwa is staying with her aunt, Mrs. R.W. Shelley.
-Stacy McCracken has returned home from Peen college summer school.
-Miss Nelson is visiting her sister, Mrs. Derickson.
-Wm. Harkens started west this week to visit a daughter in Idaho.
-The Johnsons have a new hay baler and it is now ready for work.

Avery. [Monroe Co.] Avery, Aug. 5
- Wm. L. Story formerly of the Avery Supply Co. Store No. 1 is now filling the position of assistant pay roll man during the absence of John G. Evans.
-The mines are now shipping every day and much coal is being shipped.
- C.B. Skeels and wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary recently. Most of their children and grandchildren were present. The Avery Citizen's band serenaded them in the evening and rendered some excellent music.
-Ed C. Krieger, stenographer for the Smoky Hollow Coal Co. received a telegram that his mother was not expected to live and left for Burlington on No. 4.

Milton. [Jefferson or Van Buren?] Milton, Aug. 5
- Dr. H.C. Young of Bloomfield and Dr. L.F. Summers of this place operated on the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otis Murphy for deformed hip last week.
-Mr. and Mrs. Willis Moon have a new boy at their home, born last week.
- Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Hackett have moved to town and occupy the home of Mrs. Akins in South Milton.

Olive Branch. [?? county] Olive Branch, Aug. 6
- Born to Mr. and Mrs. Francis Haney July 31 a son.

Soap Creek. [Davis Co.] Soap Creek, Aug. 5
- William Paine of Bloomfield called on his cousin, Tom Sample, Monday.
-The little daughter of Walter Munn, is very ill at this time.
-Harry Sample is working for John McConal.
-Minerva Sample is on the sick list this week.
-Dora Sample is on the sick list this week.

Martinsburg. [Davis or Keokuk Cos?] Martinsburg, Aug. 5
- Arthur Summers of Worthington, Mo., is visiting relatives at the home of Wise Sylvester.
-O.W. Glass played with the regimental band on the Dain excursion to Keokuk Saturday.
-Meeker Bros. are moving the house of J. Redfern. He will soon erect a new dwelling instead of the old one which he has abandoned.
-Prof. G.L. Matson is packing his household goods and will ship them this week to Laconia.

Agency. [Wapello Co.] Agency, Aug. 6
- Mrs. Effie Smith of Wall Lake, Mrs. Ella Randall of Great Falls, Mont., and Mrs. Newell of this place entertained forty of their old friends Tuesday afternoon at the home of their mother, Mrs. M. L. Chamberlain. The afternoon was spent in games and a social time. Refreshments were served in the yard. Those present from out of town were: Mrs. John Bryan of Plankington, S.D., Mrs. Hirm Wing of Eddyville, Mrs. J.M. Symmonds of Terrell, Texas, Miss Van Duzer of St. Paul, Minn., Mrs. Clyde Adams, Miss Inez Chambers and Miss Sarah Jenny of Ottumwa.

Collett [Jefferson Co.] Collett, Aug. 6
- Ed Hudgell had the skin torn off three fingers in the pulley while he was putting up hay.
-Mrs. Charles Woodrow is very sick.
-Mrs. Grant Hudgell's father, Ed. Kellar of Cedar township, died Sunday morning, Aug. 2. The funeral occurred Monday.
-Mr. and Mrs. Ed Hudgell are the proud parents of a ten-pound girl, born Wednesday, July 29.
-J.L. Work and daughter of LeMars, Mo., are visiting relatives in this vicinity and Birmingham.
-Miles Bradford, who has been working at Fairfield, is now at his home.
-Mrs. Will Gallup fell and broke her ankle.
-Dave Rodabaugh, one of the oldest residents, was buried at Bethel July 30.

Bonaparte. [Van Buren Co.] Bonaparte, Aug. 6
- A petition is being circulated through Van Buren county for the establishment of saloons. The permit is being met with little opposition in Bonaparte. It requires the consent of 65 per cent of the voters at last years's election.
- Miss Amy Billy of Ottumwa is visiting here with relatives.
-J.Peck Sharpe and wife of Keokuk, spent Sunday here with relatives.

West Van Buren. [Van Buren Co.] West Van Buren, Aug. 6
- Harvesting and threshing is almost a thing of the past for this year in this vicinity.
- Miss Cora Channel of Douds visited over Sunday with her cousins, Misses Bertha and Minnie Plowman.
-Cleve and Wrex Rambo spent Sunday here with their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George Rambo.

Pulaski. [Davis Co.] Pulaski, Aug. 6
- Mrs. Lafe Heath and children arrived Friday from St. Louis for an extended visit with the formers parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Plank and other relatives.
-The Epworth league have a handkerchief bazar at the opera house Saturday afternoon. In the evening an interesting program was given at which ice cream and cake were served.
- Miss Rosa Ramseyer of Illinois is visiting her sister, Mrs. Dan Widmer, north of town.
-Miss Elmer Andrews left Thursday for Moravia where she is visiting relatives.

Bunch. [Davis Co.] Bunch, Aug. 6
- J.T. Morrison who is going to run a threshing engine for James Collins, formerly of this place but now of South Dakota, will leave for that place next Monday with a crew of hands.
-Will Long, Paul Scott and Calvin Dall, have returned from South Dakota, where they have been looking for homesteads.

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. & Mar. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 12, 1903

"Competine" Postoffice is Now "Farson"- Douds-Leando Merger.
The name of the postoffice at Competine, Wapello county, has been changed to Farson, and will be located at the new station on the Milwaukee cut-off. The name of the postoffice at Douds Station, Van Buren county, has been changed to Douds-Leando.

Neighborhood News.

Salem. [Henry Co.] Salem, Aug. 12
- At the Friends' church Sunday afternoon Miss Bessie Fergusan gave a report of the International Christian Endeavor convention held at Denver in July.
-Friday evening, August 21, Mr. Lenker will address the people of Salem on the gasoline light subject. August 24 there will be a special election at the town hall and the question will be transcribed to a vote of the people and the voters will have an opportunity to decide upon the matter.
-Marion Miller purchased the property known as the old mill lot, and will, in the near future, build a house on it.
-Monday afternoon while Orrie Johnson was conveying a bunch of shingles to the roof of Elias Friend's new house, the scaffolding gave way and Mr. Johnson was hurled to the ground. Although receiving severe injuries, great hopes for his recovery are entertained.
-A very enjoyable social was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Bicksler, by the Christian Endeavor society of the Congregational church Friday evening.
-Last week the announcement of the death of Francis Sheldon, aged 95 years, which occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Charles Brown, at Fresno, California, was received at Salem, where he and his family had resided in former years.
-Saturday evening the remains of Jas. Spray were brought from Illinois to this city for burial. A team of horses which Mr. Spray was driving became frightened and ran. Mr. Spray was so seriously injured that death resulted in a few moments after he was carried into the house.
-The funeral services over the remains of the late Miss Jennie Blith, of Oakland were held here at the home Sunday morning at 10 o'clock. Miss Bessie Ferguson of Denova conducted the services.
-Soon after noon Thursday the team of horses belonging to C. Scott took a short run. Mr. Scott was thrown from the wagon and the wheels passed over his lower limbs. Although receiving painful injuries he was not seriously hurt.
-The Christian Endeavor society of the Congregational church enjoyed the pleasure of a hay rack drive and held a business meeting at the home of John Savage west of town, Monday evening.
-J.B. Bicksler, daughter, Miss Nellie and sons, Frank and Clarence, departed Tuesday for Oklahoma where Mr. Bicksler purchased a large tract of land last spring. Mr. Bicksler will return in two weeks. About October 1 he and his wife will have completed arrangements here and will go to their new home. A large circle of friends regret the departure of this most estimable family.
-Mr. Haverhill, who has been so very sick for the past week, is reported somewhat better.
-Rev. and Mrs. Sharpless have rented Mrs. Hobson's house for the ensuing year.
-Miss Amy Bliss will be one of the instructors at Whittier college, which opens in September.
-Arthur Ingrim left Monday to take a position as assistant night operator at West Quincy, Mo.
-Misses Dell and Nellie Van Scholack, who have been visiting their sister, Mrs. S.F. Hill, left for their home at Albia Wednesday. Miss Mary Hill accompanied them.
-Bamford Sinclair came from Chicago Saturday. He is much in need of a vacation, as close confinement at office work has undermined his health. Rev. and Mrs. Sinclair will return from their visit in Kansas Thursday.
-Mrs. Van Winkle is enjoying a visit with her daughter, Mrs. Flora Rawschellbeck, of Sterling Kansas.
-Tuesday evening Mr. and Mrs. Will Masden left for Colorado for a visit with relatives.
-James Brown is home from visiting his children in the western part of the state.
-Mrs. Stearns and children, who have been visiting Mrs. Stearns' sister, Mrs. Haverhill, will return to their home at Aurora, Ill, this week.

Irish Bend. [Van Buren Co] Irish Bend, Aug. 12
- Geo. Duffield a prominent farmer of this vicinity and Miss Stidger had a narrow escape from being dashed to death while driving a team of colts one evening last week. Just after they had crossed the bridge across Chequest creek above Pittsburg the team became frightened and dashed down the road when near the M.E. church the wagon was upset throwing its occupants violently to the ground. Miss Stidger was unconscious for 15 minutes. Mr. Duffield sustained a broken wrist and was pretty severely hurt besides.
-W.H. Harryman and son, Waldo, passed through this vicinity en route to Keosauqua Monday, the former as delegate to the county convention and the latter to attend the Van Buren county teachers' institute.
-Vance Wilson of Ottumwa passed through here Saturday evening en route to the old home near Lebanon.
-Quite a destructive wind storm swept over this locality lately blowing down hay ricks and large trees and ruining fruit trees. A large amount of apples were blown off.

Batavia. [Jefferson Co] Batavia, Aug. 12
- After a long and painful illness, David Weisenberger passed away at his home in this place Thursday, August 6, from cancer of the stomach. Funeral services were held at the home on Friday, conducted by the Odd Fellows. The old soldiers acted as pall bearers. He is survived by his wife.

[transcribed by C.J.L., Feb. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 19, 1903

PROMINENT MAN DEAD
N.G. Brown of Bentonsport Passes Away This Morning.
Bonaparte, Aug. 19- (Special)- N.G. Brown, aged 68 years, died at his home in Bentonsport early this morning after a severe illness. His death was caused by dysentery. He was well known throughout Van Buren county, having conducted a real estate business for several years. Mr. Brown was high in Masonic circles and was a Knights Templar. He was the father of Mrs. A. McDonald of Bonaparte. No arrangements have yet been made for the funeral.

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 20, 1903

OLD SETTLERS MEET
Van Buren County Pioneers Hold Successful Convention
Keosauqua, Aug 20- (Special)- The twenty-third annual reunion of the Van Buren County Old Settlers' association was held at Keosauqua yesterday. There was a large attendance and the occasion was a complete success in every way. The following program was carried out:
Morning Session- 10:30 a.m. Called to order by president, James Duffield, Pittsburg, Iowa.
Invocation- Rev. C.M. Johnson of Keosauqua.
Obituary address- Geo. C. Duffield, Pittsburg.
Dinner.
Afternoon Session, 1:30 p.m.
Music.
Address- Rev. H.A. Ingham, Keosauqua.
Music.
Address- Hon. M.A. Roberts, Ottumwa.
Address- Hon. E.O. Stanard,St. Louis, Mo.
Music.
Address- Hon. V.P. Twombly, Des Moines
Election of Officers.
Voluntary reminiscences by pioneers.
Voluntary addresses.
Music. "God Be With You 'Till We Meet Again."

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier, Aug. 20, 1903

YOUNG BOY SHOT.
Jesse Morrow Injured by Explosion of Pistol.

Jesse Morrow, the son of M. C. Morrow, who resides as 916 Sherman street, was injured while firing a small pistol this afternoon.  Young Morrow in company with another young lad named Ed Gilbert, had been shooting near the first dam and finding one of the cartridges too large they attempted to whittle it down to fit the gun.  When the pistol was snapped the gun exploded, the ball entering the Morrow boy’s thigh.  Dr. A. O. Williams was called and addressed the injured member.  It was impossible to find the ball, which had become deeply imbedded in the flesh.

[transcribed by L.Z., Jun 2020]

Ottumwa Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 21, 1903

Blackhawk [Davis Co.] Blackhawk, Aug 20
-Mr. and Mrs. Ves Hopkins are rejoicing over the arrival of a little son at their home last Sunday.
-Jomes Smith visited with relatives near Unionville Sunday.
-Mr. and Mrs. Dan Jomes are visiting at the home of the former's sister, Mrs. Wm. Kelley, this week.

West Van Buren [Van Buren Co.] West Van Buren, Aug. 20
- J.T. Hissen has already begun work on his new dwelling.
-Mr. and Mrs. E.E. Hanshaw spent Sunday last with her brother, George Haney and family near White Elm. -John McCullough and wife are visiting with their daughter, Mrs. Vanfleet, near Lebanon.

Keosauqua [Van Buren Co.] Keosauqua, Aug. 20
- District court commenced here on Monday of this week with Judge M.A. Roberts of Ottumwa on the bench. The judge's son Frank is here with him as court reporter and this is Frank's first term as reporter. On account of the way the trains run here now on the Rock Island the judge and his reporter were unable to reach here until 5:07 in the evening. Court was opened and adjourned this evening without transacting any business. The grand jury appeared Tuesday afternoon and is now at work. There is much work for the grand jury at this term. There are four defendants in jail whose cases come before the grand jury besides a number that are out on bond. There is an unusual amount of work for this county, much more than there has been at any one term for several years. The trial jury appeared yesterday but so far no jury case has come up for trial. The case of the State of Iowa vs. Baird charged with having murdered Cap. Dunlap at Keokuk more than one year ago, and which comes to this county on a change of venue from Lee county, is assigned for trial on Monday afternoon of next week.
-Miss Jennie Ferris, who has been visiting with her aunt, Mrs. J.W. Harwood, the past month, returned to her home in Douds Monday of this week.
-S.E. Wilson and family of Ottumwa are visiting in this place with the parents of Mr. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. B.S. Wilson.
- Miss Smith, who has been spending the summer in this place with her sister,
-Mrs. C.A. Wilkin, has returned to her home in Colorado.
-Miss Rose Schmidt of Bonaparte is visiting with her sister, Mrs. ?.W. Whitmore.

Winchester. [Van Buren Co.] Winchester, Aug. 20
- Mrs. Spray has moved into Wm. Howard's house.
-Mrs. Angie McCall received notice of her brother-in-law's death, George Humbert, which occurred recently in Kansas.
-Mrs. Albright, of Des Moines, has been in town visiting her nephew and niece, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hill.

Brookville. [Jefferson Co.] Brookville, Aug. 20
- Dan Johnston and Wilbur Ireland shipped two car loads of cattle to Chicago last week.
-Miss Hope Warwick of Fairfield was an over Sunday guest at the home of her aunt, Mrs. Thomas Laughlin.
-Born, to R.M. Davis and wife, August 16, a son.
-Mrs. Ed Fagan was called to Glascow this week by the serious illness of her son, William, who was recently stricken with typhoid fever.
-Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Happ visited their daughter, Mrs. Kate Helmes, east of Fairfield Sunday.
- Born to Frank Sears and wife, August 13, a daughter.

Ormansville [Wapello Co.] Ormansville, Aug. 20
- Mrs. Ella Harness died Monday and was laid to rest Tuesday at Morris Hill cemetery.
-John Orman had a runaway Sunday evening. Mr. Orman and the Misses Pearl and Dora Overturf were thrown out and considerably hurt.
-Stephen Overturf and three of his fingers badly crushed in his threshing machine.
-J.T. Wood has moved into his fine new house.

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello co. Iowa
August 26, 1903

George W. Kitterman Describes Trip to National G.A.R. Encampment.
George W. Kitterman of Ottumwa, who went to San Francisco, Cal., to attend the national encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic, has written a letter to the Courier describing his trip across the country and telling of the meeting of a number of former Ottumwans who now reside at various points in the west. The letter, which is written from Santa Fe Springs, Cal, and is dated Thursday, Aug. 20, is as follows:
"I left Ottumwa Aug. 6 on No. 3 and arrived in Denver, Col, the next morning. Three of my nieces live there, with whom I spent three days and had a fine time. They took me to all the principal places in the city. I saw A.D. Moss, W.A. McGrew and Doc McHugh while there.
"I joined the Iowa special train at Colorado Springs, Col. We spent a day there and at Manitou. Jack Hall and I visited the Garden of the Gods. We went up Williams' canon to the Cave of the Winds. We went through the cave three-forths of a mile in the very heart of the mountain.
"We climbed Williams mountain and then Cheyenne mountain to Helen Hunt Jackson's grave. It was Helen Hunt Jackson who made those beautiful places around Colorado Springs famous.
"We went down the other side of Cheyenne mountain to the foot of the Seven Falls. We descended more than three hundred feet alongside of seven rushing cascades. The water falls into a basin of granite into which the sun shines but just a few minutes at noon. A bubbling, gushing, babbling brook carries the water away.
"We came back to our car and left for Salt Lake City, Utah. There I had a pleasant visit with Tim Eagan and Gus Lyons. Jack Hall, Tim Eagan and I took a car and went out to Salt Air beach for a bath. There were two or three thousand people in the lake. the water is so strong with salt you cannot sink. If one happens to get a mouthful he wishes he had never seen salt.
"Our next stop was San Francisco, Cal. I stayed here three days. I visited my old army physician, C.G. Strong. I saw Robert McChesney who used to live in Ottumwa and Alex Van Winkle, an old Wapello county boy. Alex Van Winkle owns a ranch of three thousand acres near Crow's Landing. He sent up one thousand dollars for the G.A.R. boys.
"Since I have a sister here whom I had not seen but once since 1852, I decided to leave for Santa Fe Springs, a suburb of Los Angeles. I saw C.S. Harlan at Los Angeles. He is doing well, having a good position with the Bishop Manufacturing company.
"We will visit Cataline Island before returning."
--
Interred in Kirkville.
The funeral of Mrs. Margaret E. Thomas, who died Monday morning at the residence of her son, John H. Thomas, in Keb, was held at the church of the Latter Day Saints this morning, at 12 o'clock. The services were conducted by Rev. Floyd Williams of Oskaloosa. The interment took place in the Kirkville cemetery.

Col Mackey is Improving
Sigourney, Aug. 26 -- (Special) -- Col. C.H. Mackey, the hardy old politician who is making such a game fight for his life in spite of the fact that the doctors say that the septic poison which has a hold upon him will be the cause of his early death, had a good day yesterday and rested fairly well last night. Today he is still feeling better than he was Monday, the worst day he has had since he was stricken. The hard chills which at first characterized his illness have become less frequent and his relatives now have hopes for his recovery. However, his condition is very critical.

Beats Employee. Irate Workman at Waukon Fined for Cruelty.
Waukon, Aug 26 -- Sunday morning one Max Promenitz informed his employer, Jake Beal, a milkman, that he could no longer deliver milk for him. Thereupon Beal hit Promenitz in the back with a wedge, tied him to a tree, whipped him and threatened to shoot him with a revolver; also threatened to shoot his own mother and a young man who tried to prevent Beal's further abuse of Promenitz. Beal was arrested, brought before Justice S.R. Thompson and fined $25 and costs.

Guthrie Center Visited by Severe Electrical Storm
Guthrie Center, Aug 26 -- During a storm here Monday night lightning struck the barn on the farm of William Bates, burning the building and contents and doing damage to the amount of $3,000. The barn was a frame structure 36X50 feet. Two horses were burned to death and the loss included three buggies, two wagons, 100 bushels of oats, 20 tons of hay, hay scales, farming implements and harnesses. the insurance was $600.

Charged with Seduction. Well Known Newton man Arrested for a Serious Crime.
Des Moines, Aug 26 -- (Special) -- J.W. Himes, manager of the Postal Telegraph branch office at Newton, is under arrest there charged with seduction. The prosecuting witness is a Lyons county woman. Himes was well and popularly known in newton and his arrest is a surprise to the people there.

Jas. B. Williams Dead. Was Son of Founder of Fort Dodge and a Pioneer Resident.
Fort Dodge, Aug 26 -- James B. Williams, son of Major William Williams, the founder of Fort Dodge, died at his home here yesterday. He was born in Hollidaysburg, Pa., in 1836, and has lived in Fort Dodge since 1850. He was a civil war veteran and was prominent in political and business affairs.

Iowa Town Site is Sold -- Enterprise will be Made Center for Coal Business
Iowa Falls, Aug. 26 -- The Des Moines, Iowa Falls and Northern Town Lot company of this city, which controls the town sites along the seventy-five miles of the road, has just sold to Des Moines parties the entire town site of Enterprise, the tract embracing about thirty acres. the purchase is made by parties interested in the Des Moines Coal and Mining company and the town will become a thriving coal town, as it is surrounded by valuable coal land.

Fugitives Captured -- Men Who Escaped from Knoxville Jail Are Caught
Des Moines, Aug 26 -- The last man of the three who escaped about a month ago from the county jail at Knoxville, has been captured. He is F.W. Wyrick, a young man who is awaiting the action of the Marion county grand jury on a charge of assault with intent to commit murder on a young man named Knox. For five weeks Myrick has been a fugitive from the Knoxville authorities. He was arrested lat week in Colorado. After escaping from jail Myrick ran north from Knoxville to the Des Moines river and passing over the stream started east for Perry. The young man then took a bee line for Kansas, where he worked several days in the harvest fields. He was tracked by the Iowa officers to Kansas and left that place only a few days before a deputy sheriff arrived to take him into custody. A deputy sheriff from Knoxville passed through the city yesterday enroute for Manchester, where another of the last fugitives is in jail. This makes the last of the trio who escaped by breaking a hole in the side of the jail wall while all the officers were attending the Marion county district court.

New Plant.
The Kemp manufacturing plant at Waterloo will be built by F.W. Chapman for $29,254.

[transcribed by S.F., Sept. 2004]

Ottumwa Daily Courier
Ottumwa, Wapello, Iowa
August 28, 1903

IOWA TOWN FAMOUS - Keosauqua Breaks Record in Producing Great Men.
THREE OTTUMWANS RAISED THERE
Van Buren County City is Envied For Its Production of Senators, Congressmen, Governors of State, and Otherwise Eminent Personages.

There are three prominent Ottumwans who can claim the distinction of having been born in Keosauqua, the birthplace of greatness and the town that hold all the records for the production of men who have gained honors and wealth. Calvin Manning, the son of the late Edwin Manning, one of the pioneer settlers of Iowa, is one of the trio; Attorneys F.M. Hunter and W.A. Work, among the prominent members of the legal profession who received their first instruction in the office of Wright, Knapp & Caldwell, are the others. The late Seth Richards, who later lived in Ottumwa and acquired a large amount of property here, was born in Keosauqua, as was United States Senator Wm. A. Clark, of Montana; A.J. Davis of Montana, the millionaire copper king; ex-Senator Wm. E. Mason, of Illinois; the late ex-Senator J.H. Gear, Henry Clay Dean, until his death was one of the brainiest, although eccentric men in the country, and many others.

The Humorist of Keosauqua.
"Some men are born great, some achieve greatness, and some had the judgment to live in Keosauqua awhile." Such was the explanation once given by George G. Wright, United States senator and chief justice of Iowa, when asked how this little town of a few hundred had furnished the nation several scores of senators, congressmen, cabinet members, governors of states, eminent jurists, famous lawyers, multi-millionaires, railroad managers and financiers, and leaders, in short, in very avenue of activity. Judge Wright was the humorist of the Keosauqua colony of great men. His explanation was characteristic but it doesn't explain.

A Galaxy of Greatness.
Within a period of fifteen years from 1850 to 1865, when the village at no time numbered over 600 souls, there were numbered among its population six men who afterwards became United States senators; a dozen who were destined to be congressmen; three United States judges; half a dozen men who have since counted their wealth from two to a hundred millions; half a dozen who attained high honors as military commanders in the civil war or later; fully a dozen governors and leading state officers of Iowa and other western states, four or five great railroad managers and railroad presidents; two scores of men who have since occupied foremost places at the bar of almost every state west of the Mississippi; cabinet members, ministers in the diplomatic service, orators, statesmen, politicians, a candidate for president, great business men-in any vocation the record of the sons of Keosauqua may be found writ well up to the top.

Lincoln Appointed Caldwell.
From the office of the famous old law firm of Wright, Knapp & Caldwell went out many of the west's noted barristers. Judge Wright was head of the firm. Joseph R. Knapp, twice district attorney, then federal attorney for Iowa, candidate for governor and for the supreme bench on the democratic ticket, and one of Iowa's greatest lawyers, was the second member. Henry Clay Caldwell, a nephew of the late Paris Caldwell of this city, just retiring from the United States circuit bench of the ninth district, was the third member. In 1864 Lincoln appointed him to the district bench at Arkansas; thence he went to the circuit bench where he sat, beloved of lawyers and enjoying the confidence of litigants, until, when he announced his determination to retire a few weeks ago, he was the last man in public life appointed to office by the great emancipator. Judge Caldwell now lives at Little Rock.

Delazon Smith.
Ask an old-timer who was the greatest man in Keosauqua ever boasted, and you have a great chance to hear the name of Delazon Smith. Under President Tyler he was minister to Colombia. After that he went to the Pacific coast, made a fortune and was the first senator elected from Oregon. He was one of the greatest orators this country ever produced.

Four Noted Men.
Away back before the civil war- nearly a generation before it, in fact- two young men started a newspaper in Keosauqua. They were J.B. Howell and Samuel M. Clark. Later they moved to Keokuk and were the publishers of the Gate City. Howell went to the senate and Clark represented the Keokuk district in congress till he tired of it and withdrew. John Henry Gear, governor of Iowa, legislator and speaker of the Iowa house, congressman and twice elected senator, was another Keosauquan of the early day. And over against him may be placed "Bill" Mason of Illinois, the rotund and happy senator from Illinois. He was a Bentonsport lad, but he went to school in Keosauqua, and Keosauqua claims the credit for him.

Augustus Hall an Orator.
Coming down to men who became more congressmen the investigator may pick up one or two new Keosauquans in this capacity in almost any casual conversation with an old-timer. Augustus C. Hall divides with Delazon Smith the honor of Keosauqua oratory. He was a great lawyer and orator, a democratic congressman and for many years chief justice of Nebraska. His son is now one of the foremost lawyers of Omaha.

Seth Richards Career.
A man of energy and magnificent ability was Seth Richards; Connecticut Yankee by birth and citizen of Van Buren county many years. He at one time owned 65,000 acres of Iowa lands. In 1880 he went to Oakland, California and there multiplied a fortune already of millions. He probably left $5,000,000 when he died in 1895 at the age of 85.

Other Keosauquans.
Benton J. Hall, member of congress from the first district; Gen. J.B. Weaver congressman and twice populist candidate for president, once polling over 1,000,000 votes; Capt. John A.T. Hull now representative of the Des Moines district in congress, chairman of the house committee on military affairs; William Webster, congressman from Nevada and for years its leading lawyer, now dead; E.K. Valentine, congressman for several terms from a Nebraska district; Elisha Cutler, Jr., elected secretary of state of Iowa when admitted into the union; Josiah Bonney who succeeded Cutler as secretary of state and afterward refused a nomination for governor; Capt. V.P. Twombly, treasurer of the state; Samuel Elbert, twice supreme judge of Colorado and afterward twice governor of that state; Lemuel Allen, now lieutenant governor of Nevada; Volney Smith, son of Delazon Smith, who became lieutenant governor of Arkansas; Jacob G. Vall, antimonopoly candidate for governor of Iowa- these are a few of the Keosauquans who have held offices worthy of mention.

Had Many War Veterans.
But not alone as lawyers and politicians were Keosauquans noted. They made a remarkable record in the civil war. Gen. Jas. M. Tuttle went out as captain of Van Buren's first company of volunteers; became colonel of the famous Second Iowa; became brigadier and then major general. Another captain in the Second Iowa was V.P. Twombly, who is known to fame as the youth who planted the colors on the works of Fort Donelson -and kept them there- after four men had been shot down with the flag in their hands. Captain Twombly's heroic act is depicted in a magnificent bronze on the Iowa soldiers and sailors' monument at Des Moines. Judge Caldwell, too, was a gallant soldier. He rose from the ranks to be major of the Fourth Iowa cavalry. One of the most promising careers was that of Captain Lee Elbert, cut short by a rebel bullet in the very beginning of the war, while he was performing, not for the first time, an act of noble and distinguished gallantry. He was even then, though a mere boy, marked for military honors of the first class. His father, Dr. Samuel Elbert, should not be overlooked, for he was president of the territorial council of Iowa and did a large part in saving Iowa to the union in her present beautiful conformation. Dr. Elbert was one of those who opposed and helped secure rejection of the first constitution transcribed to the people, looking to the admission of the state with a western boundary about 100 miles east of the Missouri. Iowa wanted into the sisterhood but not badly enough to sacrifice her claim to the Missouri slope; and so congress tried again and this time passed an act naming the present boundaries and the state approved. Major Hugh Brown of the regular army went as a private from Van Buren county at the opening of the war and retired from the service in 1888. Col. O.H.P. Scott of the Forty-eighth Iowa infantry, went out from Keosauqua. So did Col. Daniel Kent of the Nineteenth Iowa.

Edwin Manning a Foremost Man
Edwin Manning, who went to Keosauqua in 1837 and lived there till his death in 1892 was one of Iowa's wealthiest citizens when he died. He conducted many stores, invested in railroads, lands and banking and was one of the foremost men of the state for a half century in politics as well as business. He was the greatest patriarch of the town for his last decade of life the only one remaining there of the colony of early settlers who had met distinguished success. Hon. C.C. Nourse, attorney general of Iowa and now a prominent member of the Des Moines bar, was a Keosauqua boy. So was D.C. Beaman, general solicitor of the big Colorado fuel and iron company from its beginning to the present. So was Calvin Manning of Ottumwa commissioner to the Paris exposition for the United States government and a leader in politics and finance of Iowa. He is a son of Edwin Manning.

Many Legal Lights.
George B. Redd and George Stidger, leading attorneys of Denver are representatives of the Keosauqua school of legal instruction that centered in the old Wright, Knapp & Caldwell office. So are W.A. Work and F.M. Hunter of Ottumwa; W.S. Mayne of Council Bluffs, Hon. Argus Cox of Bolivar, Mo., circuit court Judge George A. Rankin of San Francisco and Judge Robert Sloan for over twenty years district judge of this district, a position he still holds. He is one of the veteran jurists of the state. H. Clay Dean, namesake of the "Millboy of the Slashes," was one of the most widely known men Keosauqua produced. He was a man of magnificent intellect and courage. Beginning as a Methodist preacher, his interest in public affairs led him into politics, and he became in the time of Greeley's prominence a democrat. Vallandigham never said more bitter things than Dean was wont to say in his speeches. He hated the republican party for its reconstruction policies, and he would hurl his anathemas in the face of any audience and dare it to attack him. He was perfectly able to thrash any half dozen ordinary men, and he did it on sundry occasions; and the power that he possessed of cowing a great audience, almost unanimously opposed to his views, into listening and submitting to his excorations was no less than wonderful. He was uncouth in appearance a giant in stature and strength, ignorant of books, but of wonderful intelligence and force. He had a considerable political career in Missouri after leaving Iowa.

[transcribed by C.J.L.; Feb. 2004]

Iowa Old Press
Wapello County