Page 736

No date

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCED

     Mr. and Mrs. John F. Ryan, 108 East Ninth Street, announced the Engagement and approaching marriage of their only daughter, Frances Kathryn, to Leo John Furlong, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Furlong of Letts.

     The wedding will take place at 10 o'clock, Wednesday January 10, at St. Mathias Church, Miss Ryan has chosen Miss Genevieve Carroll as her attendant and Maurice Furlong, Mo. M.M. 1c, of the United States Navy, will serve his brother as best man.

Page 737

5-14-45

PFC. O'BRIEN IS BACK IN STATES, MESSAGE STATES

     Pfc. William O'Brien, held prisoner by Germany for more than two years is back in New York and expects to be home soon. This information came in a telegram which was received from him by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John O'Brien, rural route No. 5, this morning.

     Pfc. O'Brien wired that he expected to see his family soon, but advised them not to try to contact him or write to him at the New York address.

5-19-45

PFC. O'BRIEN IS BACK HOME; HELD NAZI PRISONER

     Pfc. William O'Brien, who was liberated from a German prison camp on April 14, is spending a 60 days leave at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John O'Brien, on rural route No. 5. Miss Veronica O'Brien of Chicago, a sister, also arrived Thursday to join the other members of the family for a week-end visit here.

     Pfc. O'Brien who was taken prisoner in Italy more than two years ago is scheduled to report at Hot Springs, Ark., at the conclusion of his leave.

5-26-45

LT. SUMMERS IS BACK FOR VISIT AT ARDON HOME

     First Lt. Joseph Summers of the army air corps, who has been ill with pneumonia and malaria in the Mediterranean theater of operations since completing his designated air missions, arrived home Friday to spend a 30-day leave with his parents at Ardon and with other relatives and friends. Lt. Summers was on his last mission when he was taken ill and hospitalized.

     The Ardon airman was taken by plane to Naples and came home on the big transport which landed last Sunday. At the close of his 30-day furlough he will report of the army base at Santa Anna California.

Page 738

6-25-45

MRS. MARY BYRNE OF 76 TOWNSHIP IS CALLED BY DEATH

     Mrs. Mary Byrne, life long resident of Muscatine County, died at her home in Seventy-Six Township at 8:35 p.m. Sunday.

     The daughter of John and Elizabeth Foley Dean. She was born near Nichols on December 23, 1868. Her marriage to James E. Byrne of near Letts, took place on Feb. 28, 1903 at St. Mary Church at Nichols. She was a member of St. Malachy’s near Ardon. Surviving are her husband, one son, Clement, and a daughter, Mrs. Herschel Harper of Muscatine and two grandchildren, Elaine and Robert Harper, three brothers, Thomas Dean of Nichols, Lawrence Dean of West Branch, and Eugene Dean of Wintset and a sister, Miss Tena Dean of Nichols.

     She was preceded in death by one son, two sisters, and one brother.

     The body is at Fairbanks Home for Funerals and the Rosary will be recited there at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Funeral rites will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary's Church with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair in charge.

     Burial will be at St. Mary's cemetery here.

7-14-45

ROSALIE HEALEY FUNERAL RITES PLANNED MONDAY

     Funeral services for Miss Rosalie Healey, 26, fatally injured in an automobile accident near Montpeller Friday afternoon, will be conducted at 9 a.m. Monday at St. Mathias Church, The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W, L. Hannon will be in charge and burial will be in St. Mary's cemetery.

     The Rosary will be recited at the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral home at 8 p.m. Sunday. The body is remaining at the funeral home.

     Miss Healey died of a basal skull fracture suffered when a car in which she was riding, driven by Minor L. Peterson of Minneapolis Minn., crashed, into a bridge abutment on highway No. 61, following a tire blowout. Mr. Peterson escaped with minor injuries.

     Miss Healey was serving as surgical supervisor at Bellevue Hospital a position she had held for several months. She previously served as a volunteer nurse in the United States military forces and remained in service until honorably discharged. Miss Healey was a graduate of the St. Mathias high school and Muscatine Junior College and from the school of nursing of the University of Iowa. She was a member of St. Mathias Church and of Joan of Arc court, Catholic Daughters of America.

     The daughter of Andrew Healey and Rose Cassidy Healey, she was born in. Muscatine July 28, 191.8 and. made her home here for 20 years, residing with her aunt, the late Miss Kate Healey. Her father, Andrew Healey, of near Ardon, survives. She was preceded in death by her mother.

Page 739

7-16-45

FUNERAL RITES - MISS ROSALIE HEALEY

     Solemn requiem high mass was celebrated at 9 a.m. today at St. Mathias Church for Miss Rosalie Healey, who was killed near Montpelier Friday in an automobile accident. Burial was in St. Mary's cemetery under the direction of the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral Home.

     The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W. L, Hannon was the celebrant of the mass with the Rev. Father E, J. O'Hair of Wilton as the deacon and the Rev. H. M. Pholman of Fairfield as the sub deacon, Joe Rauch was the master of ceremonies and Billy Carl and Bob Hines, the servers.

     Casket bearers were Robert Angerer, Floyd Vander Ploeg, Paul Healey, George Koenigshecker, Robert Nau and Leo Furlong.

8-7-45

PFC. W. J. O'BRIEN GIVEN RELEASE FROM ARMY DUTY

     Pfc. William J. O'Brien, who served in the U.S. Army for four years, spending more than two years in a German prisoner of war camp, has been discharged from service from Jefferson Barracks, Mo. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John M, O'Brien, rural route No. 5.

     Pfc. O'Brien, listed missing in action in North Africa on Feb. 17, 1943 was later reported a prisoner of Germany and was held in a camp in Italy before being transferred to Germany. Word of his liberation on April 14, was received here early in. May.

     The former soldier entered the Army on May 28, 1941 and went overseas on May 1, 1942. He is in St. Louis at present.

12-24-45

A.M. KCLLMANN, LIFELONG LOCAL RESIDENT, DIES

     Alexander Martin Kollmann, aged 82 years, a. lifelong resident of Muscatine, who resided at 1319 East Second street, died at Bellevue Hospital, at 3:05 Saturday, Complications resulting from a fall in which he suffered, a broken hip 11 weeks previous, caused death.

     Mr. Kollmann was born here Sept, 3, 1.863, and married Anna Lorber on April 19, 1894, in. a ceremony at St, Mary's Church. He was a member of St. Mary's Church and. the Knights of Columbus lodge.

     Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Marie Young of Rock Island, Joseph Kollmann and Mrs. Ed. Hoffman of Muscatine, Leo Kollmann, Mrs. Laura McKeone and the Misses Frances and Rose Kollmann all of Chicago; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. His parents, his wife, one brother and four sisters preceded him in death.

Page 740

12-28-45

CATHERINE LYNCH DEATH OCCURS AT RESIDENCE HERE

     Miss Catherine Lynch, 88, life-long resident of Muscatine county, died at 7 p.m. Thursday at her home, 113 Roscoe Avenue. She had been in failing health for several years with a complication of ailments.

     Miss Lynch was born on Jan. 1, .1857 in Muscatine County, Seventy-Six Township. She never married. She was a member of St. Mathias Church.

     Surviving is one brother, Mike Lynch, with whom she made her home and several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents, three brothers and four sisters.

     The body is at the Riley-Meyers Funeral Home where it will remain until funeral services which will be conducted at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Mathias Church by the Rt. Rev, Msgr. W. L. Hannon. Interment will be in the family lot at the Ardon Cemetery. The Rosary will be recited at the funeral home at 8 o'clock tonight.

12-29-45

FUNERAL RITES - CATHERINE LYNCH

     Solemn requiem high mass was celebrated at St, Mathias Church at 9 o'clock this morning for Miss Catherine Lynch, 113 Roscoe Avenue whose death occurred Thursday evening. The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W. I. Hannon served as the celebrant with the Rev. Edward J. O'Hair of Wilton as deacon. The Rev. Leroy Bergthold. as subdeacon and Joseph Rauch as master of ceremonies. Acolytes were Danny Ales Raymond Nowak, Norris Hines and Billy Carl.

     Music for the mass was provided by Norman Reinal, Justine Kelley, Paul Kelley, Robert Hines, and Gene Mueller under the direction of Sister Mary Sustolia, Vivian Smith was organist.

     Serving as pallbearers were William Digney, Phillip Cashman, Larry Byrne, Roman Luedtke, Philip O'Toole, and George Delaney. Burial was in the Ardon Cemetery with the Riley-Meyers Funeral Home in charge.

Page 741

12-24-45

A.M. KOLLMAN, LIFELONG LOCAL RESIDENT, DIES
(Continued)

     The body is at the Riley-Meyers Funeral Home and the Rosary will be recited there at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Services will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday ai St. Mary's Church with the Rev. Stanley Sendbuehler in charge. Burial will be in St, Mary's cemetery.

12-26-45

ALEXANDER M. KOLLMAN

     Requiem high mass was observed at St. Mary's church at 9 a.m. today for Alexander Martin Kollmann, whose death occurred at Bellevue Hospital Saturday with the Rev. Father Henry Sendbuehler as the celebrant under the direction of the Riley-Meyers Funeral home.

     Servers were Richard, Robert, and Hillford Hoffman and August Unkel. The St. Mary's high school choir sang the mass with Sister Mary Vera at the organ. Casket bearers were Carl Goetzman. Fred Hoffman, Harry Nau, Clarence Nolan, William Schwab, and George Lowers.

12-27-45

ALEXANDER M. KOLLMAN

     Requiem high mass was observed at St. Mary's at 9 a.m. Wednesday for Alexander Martin Kollman, whose death occured at Bellevue Hospital Saturday with the Rev. Father Henry Sendbuehler as the celebrant. Burial was in St. Mary's Cemetery under the direction of Riley-Meyers Funeral Home.

     Servers were Richard, Robert and Hilard Huffman and August Unkel, The St. Mary's High School choir sang the mass with Sister Mary Vera at the organ. Casket bearers were Carl Goetzman, Fred Huffman, Harry Nau, Clarence Nolan, William Schwab and George Powers.

Page 742

5-1-46

MARRIAGE ANNOUNCED

     Mr. and Mrs. Leo A. Summers, of Ardon, announced the marriage of their daughter, Mary Eileen Summers, to George Newton Haffner, of Sigourney, la. The marriage took place at 1 o'clock Saturday in Des Plaines, Ill. The Rev. J. T, Hollbrook performed the ceremony.

     Miss Mildred Gross, of Des Plaines, and Joseph B. Summers attended the couple.

     Mrs. Haffner wore a brown and gold ensemble and a corsage of purple iris and gold daisies. Miss Gross was in gray and she wore a corsage of pink roses.

     Among guests at the wedding was John L. Summers, brother of the bride.

     On Sunday the couple attended the wedding of Lucy Margaret Haffner, sister of the bridegroom at Sigourney, Mr. and Mrs. Haffner have returned to Des Plaines where they are employed in the 803rd A. A. F. Specialized Depot.

Page 743

1-25-47

MISS ROMANN IS HONORED AT SHOWER

     A pre-nuptial courtesy honoring Miss Elizabeth Romans was given Friday evening by Mrs. R. A. McBride and Miss Virginia McBride at the latters' home, 214 West Seventh Street. The wedding of Miss Romann and Larry Healey will take place Feb. 8 at Wilton.

     Games were enjoyed during the evening hours and prizes were presented to the honoree and Miss Doris Eichelberger, Refreshments were served with table appointments featuring the bride-elects chosen colors of peach and green. Decorations were peach candles and a centerpiece of peach gladioli. Miniature green umbrellas were given as favors. A collection of gifts was presented to Miss Romann.

     Invited guests were the Mesdamaes Henry Romann, Mike Healey, Leo Derksen, Lawrence Mealiff, Audrey Shortwell, Clifton Reeves, George Nichols, William Nietzel, Herbert Freese, Nicola Sellers, Ray Wirtz, Harry Carl, Don Hogarth and Carl Roederer, the latter two of Davenport, and the Misses Bernice Pratt, Helen Johnson, Barbara Smith, Marian Collins, Doris Eichelberger, and Stella Olson.

2-1-47

ATTENDANTS FOR ROMANN-HEALEY WEDDING LISTED

     Attendants have been announced for the wedding of Miss Elizabeth Romann, of Muscatine, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Romann, of Wilton, and Lawrence Healey, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Healey, of Ardon, which will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at St. Mary's Church in Wilton. The Rt. Rev. Msgr. J, D. Conway, of Davenport, will officiate.

     Miss Virginia McBride, of Davenport, will be maid-of-honor and Paul Healey will serve his brother as best man, Mary Ann Derksen, niece of the bride-elects, will be ringbearer and named as ushers are Leo Derksen and Earl Jones.

     No invitations are being issued but friends and relatives are invited to the wedding.

Page 744

3-18-47

JOHN T. VERINK, LIFELONG COUNTY RESIDENT, DIES

     John Thomas Verink, 70, lifelong Muscatine county resident, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. William Massey, 207 1/2 East Third Street, at 8:40 p.m. Monday afternoon after an extended illness.

     He was born in Cedar township, Muscatine county, Dec. 8, 1876, the son of William and Fannie Simpson Verink. He married Florence Hunter on March 4, 1902, in Muscatine. Mrs. Verink was a member of the Oak Grove Christian Church.

     Surviving are a son, John H. Verink of Muscatine, the daughter. Mrs. Massey, a sister Mrs. Susan Shellaburger of Mt. Pleasant, Ia., and three grandchildren. His wife and parents preceded him in death.

     Funeral rites will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the George M. Wittich Funeral Home, where the body is remaining and at 2:30 p.m. at the Oak Grove Church. Dr. R. M. Shipman of the First Methodist Church will be in charge. Burial will be in the Oak Grove cemetery.

3-21-47

FUNERAL RITES - JOHN T. VERINK

     Funeral rites for John Thomas Verink, whose death occurred Monday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. William Massey, 2071/2 East Third Street, were conducted at Ii30 p.m. Thursday at the George M. Wittich Funeral Home here and at 2i30 p.m. at the Oak Grove Church by Dr. R. M. Shipman, pastor of the First Methodist Church. Interment was in the Oak Grove cemetery.

     Casket bearers were Morris Legler, 0. E. Eichelberger, Fay Townsley Andrew Healey, Ernest Meeker and Maurice Furlong. Mrs. Morris Legler and Mrs. Fay Townsley were in charge of the flowers. Mrs. Harry Gipple was the soloist with Mrs. 0. A. Harvey as the piano accompanist.

5-23-47

MICHAEL LYNCH DEATH OCCURS AT

     Michael F. Lynch, aged about 80 years, and a lifelong resides of Muscatine county, died at Bellevue Hospital at 1:30 a.m. today from complications due to his advanced age.

     After his retirement from active farming many years ago, Mr. Lynch moved to Muscatine and made his home with his sisters at 113 Roscoe Avenue, but following their death he returned to his own farm at Ardon where he lived with a nephew, Phillip Digney.

Page 735

5-23-47

MICHAEL LYNCH DEATH OCCURS AT
(Continued)

     He was the son of Patrick and Catherine Hickey Lynch and was born in Seventy Six Township and married Miss Etta Clifford at Ardon. He was a member of St. Malachy's Church at Ardon. His wife, his parents, three brothers and five sisters preceded him in death. Several nieces and nephews survive.

     The body is at the Riley Funeral Home but will be taken to his farm residence at Ardon Sunday afternoon and the Rosary will be recited there at 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Services will be held Monday at St. Malachy's Church with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair, pastor, in charge. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Muscatine.

5-26-47

FUNERAL RITES - MICHAEL F. LYNCH

     Solemn requiem high mass was observed for Michael F. Lynch, whose death occurred at Bellevue Hospital here, at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon at 9 a.m. today with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair, pastor, as the celebrant. Interment was in St. Mary's cemetery here under the direction of the Riley Funeral Home.

     The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W. L. Harmon of St. Mathias Church served as the deacon of the mass and the Rev. L. J. Vogel of Nichols as the sub-deacon, Emmett 0'Toole, Jr. was the master of ceremonies. The funeral sermon was delivered by the Rev. Msgr. Harmon and the Revs. O'Hair and Vogel were in charge at the grave.

     Choristers were Billy Carl, Paul Kelly, Carol Chayka, Barbara Hartenhaggen and Theresa Dwyer with Vivian Smith at the organ. Casket bearers were Roman, Luedtke, Leonard Shoopman, William and Phillip 0'Toole, William Cashman and Larry Byrne.

6-14-47

CLAY-0’BRIEN WEDDING IS SOLEMNIZED

     Marriage vows of Miss Evelyn Clay of Muscatine, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Everett Clay of Detroit, Michigan and William O'Brien, son of Mr. and Mrs. John O'Brien, rural route 5, were exchanged this noon in Davenport.

     The bride was attired in a light gray dressmaker suit with pastel pink accessories and she wore a corsage of pale pink roses.

     After the ceremony a luncheon party was held at Fischers in Davenport and guests were the bride and bridegroom and Mr. and Mrs. Earl State. Later the bridal couple left on a wedding trip to Chicago and Detroit and upon their return will be at home in the Manjoine apartments, 601 East Fifth Street. The bride is employed in the office of the Meltzer Motor Company and Mr. O'Brien is employed at the Home Oil Company.

Page 746

6-14-47

MISS GENEVIEVE CARROLL BRIDE OF MAURICE FURLONG

     Miss Genevieve Marguerite Carroll, daughter of Mrs. Margaret Carroll of Columbus Junction and the late John F. Carroll, and Maurice Furlong of Letts, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Furlong, exchanged their marriage vows in a nuptial mass read at 9 o’clock this morning at St. Mathias Church, The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W. L. Hannon was celebrant of the mass and officiated at the double ring ceremony. Acolytes were Bill Kelly and Kenneth Lange.

     Ferns and vases of peonies decorated the alter.

     Miss Catherine Ellen Flannery presided at the organ and accompanied Mrs. Ester Klepper who offered the selections, "Ave Maria," Schubert; “On This Day O'Beautiful Mother," "Lambillottei and "Panis Angelicus” Franck. Miss Flannery also played Kreckel's "Wedding March" as the processional and "March Pontificate" Gounod, as the recessional.

IN BRIDAL PARTY

     Miss Rosalind Iverson of Stanhope, la. attended the bride as maid- of-honor and Joseph Summers ofArdon served the bridegroom as best man. Ushers were the bride's cousin, Robert Ahif and Leo Furlong brother of the bridegroom.

     The bride, given in marriage by her brother, Francis Carroll, was attired in a white floor length gown fashioned with a long satin bodice with satin covered buttons down the back, a white net yoke long satin sleeves extending in points over the hands and a skirt of mousseline de sole over net and taffeta. She wore a lace edged fingertip veil and carried a crystal rosary, a gift of the bridegroom. Her bouquet was a colonial arrangement of white roses and other white flowers with white satin ribbon streamers.

     Miss Iverson was in a pink gown styled with a long lace bodice. three-quarter sleeves and a net skirt with lace panels over taffeta. She wore a shoulder length veil held with a tiara of mixed sweet peas and carried a colonial bouquet of mixed pink flowers lime green satin streamers.

     For her daughter's wedding Mrs. Carroll chose a black crepe dress with white accessories and she wore a corsage of gardenias. Mrs. Theodore Noll, sister of the bridegroom, wore a brown and white ensemble and her corsage was also of gardenias.

BREAKFAST AT HOTEL

     A wedding breakfast was served in the Pearl Harbor room at Hotel Muscatine at 11 o'clock with 30 guests present. Decorations were in the bride's chosen colors of pink and lime green and the table centerpiece was a white wedding cake.

Page 747

6-14-47

MISS GENEVIEVE CARROLL BRIDE OF MAURICE FURLONG
(Continued)

     After a short wedding trip the couple will be at home in Letts. For travelling the bride chose a black and white dress with white accessories.

     Mrs. Furlong is a graduate of St. Mathias High School and her education included the elementary course at the Iowa State Teachers College. She has been employed as a teacher for the past several years of Jefferson School.

     Mr. Furlong, also a graduate of St. Mathias High School, served 40 months with the United States Navy, including 27 months of duty overseas. He is engaged in farming near Letts.

     Out-of-town guests at the wedding were Mr. and Mrs. James Furlong of Moline, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kinney of Little York, Ill., Gertrude Malmanger and Melva Joyce Langbehn of Grand Mound, la., Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lunney of Bloomington, 111., Mr. and Mrs. Mayne Courter of Winfield, Mrs. Joy Scott and Mrs. Bette Jean Bidwell of Tama, la., and Tom McDermott and George McDermott of Chicago.

7-31-47

JAMES F. HICKEY OF LETTS CALLED: RITES SATURDAY

     James F. Hickey, 77, lifelong resident of the community, died at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday at Bellevue Hospital following an extended illness. His home address was Route No. 2, Letts.

     Mr. Hickey was born in Seventy-Six Township on March 25, 1870, the son of John and Margaret Dalton Hickey. He married Miss Mary Ann O'Brien April 17, 1901, at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon. Mr. Hickey lived his entire life on the same farm with the exception of four years spent in Louisa County. In 1946 he retired after spending 50 years in farming and livestock raising.

     Surviving are one daughter, Miss Irma Hickey, at home, and one sister, Mrs. Joseph O'Brien, Muscatine. He was preceded in death by his wife, on September Z6t 1918, two brothers, Gregory and John, and one sister, Mrs. W. C. Healey.

     The body is at the family residence on Route 2, Letts and funeral services will be conducted at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon at 9 a.m. Saturday by the Rev, E. J. O'Hair. Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery here under the direction of the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral Home.

     The Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Friday at the residence.

Page 748

8-2-47

FUNERAL RITES - JOSEPH P. HICKEY

     Funeral rites for Joseph P. Hickey, Route 2, Letts, who died at Bellevue Hospital Wednesday were conducted at 9 a.m. today at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon with the Rev. Father E. J. O'Hair as the celebrant of requiem high mass. Interment was in St. Mary's Cemetery under the direction of the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral Home.

     The Rt. Rev. Msgr. W. L. Harmon served as deacon of the mass and the Rev, Father Vincent Walsh as subdeacon. Acolytes were Paul Kelley and the Rev. Leroy Bergthold, while casket bearers were Wilmo Hendrix, Mark Nolan, E. J. McFadden, Phil Cashraan, Frank Byrne and Cloyce Downer. Mrs. Mary Downer and Miss Eula Downer were flower attendants. Katherine Flannery served as organist for the funeral mass.

10-10-47

GIBSON RENAMED DIRECTOR FOR 76 FARM BUREAU

     Fay Gibson was renamed director of the Seventy-Six Township Farm Bureau at the annual election of officers of the organization conducted Thursday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Sywassick Mrs. Edward Furlong also was re-elected to serve as secretary-treasurer of the group during the coming year.

     Musical entertainment presented at the meeting included a piano solo given by Gladys Barnhart and a vocal solo, "Ride, Ride, Ride" offered by Velma Jean Barnhart.

     Mr. Gibson led a round table discussion on farm problems and reviewed the work being done by the Farm Bureau. Refreshments of pumpkin pie and coffee were served by the committee in charge. About 40 members were present.

     The next meeting of the Seventy-Six Township bureau will be held on November 13. Arrangements for the next meeting are being made by Mr. and Mrs. Glen Whltely, Chairman! Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Hogan, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Duncan, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Furlong, and Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Noll.

Page 749

3-13-48

MISS HICKEY, MR. CASHMAN TO MARRY

     Mrs. Joseph O'Brien, 706 Broadway, announces the approaching marriage of her niece, Miss Irma Hickey, of Letts, to Phillip Cashman, also of Letts. The wedding will take place Saturday, April 3, at 8 a.m. in St. Mathias Church, Muscatine with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair officiating.

     Miss Hickey is the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Hickey and Mr. Cashman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cashman.

3-22-48

76 TOWNSHIP FARM BUREAU TO MEET MARCH 25

     The 76 Township Farm Bureau Meeting will be held Thursday night, March 25 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W, C. Hendrix. The program topic will be "Health'* and Dr. K. F. Wilcox of Muscatine will speak on "Cancer". There will also be films shown.

     Each family attending is asked to bring a pie and service. The hosts will serve coffee.

     The committee in charge is Mr. and Mrs. James McLaughlin, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Healey, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Ritter, Mr. and Mrs. C. T. McCabe, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Summers and Mr. and Mrs. W. C, Hendrix.

4-3-48

HICKEY AND CASHMAN VOWS TAKEN

     Nuptial vows of Miss Irma Hickey and Phillip Cashman both of Letts, were exchanged in a simple but pretty wedding which took place at 8 o clock this morning at St. Mathias Church. The Rev. E. J. O'Hair officiated at the single ring ceremony and celebrated the nuptial mass. Acolytes were Emmett 0'Toole, Jr. and Robert Newton.

     The alter was attractively decorated with spring flowers in pastel shades.

     Miss Margaret Cashman of Chicago, niece of the bridegroom, presided at the organ, playing Kreckel's "Wedding March" for the processional and Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" as the recessional. Mrs. Ester Klepper, vocalist, offered, "On This Days Oh Beautiful Mother," "Ave Maria," "Panis Angelicus" and "Oh Lord I Am Not Worthy".

     Miss Helen O'Brien, cousin of both the bride and bridegroom, was maid of honor and Harry Cashman served his brother as best man. Ushers were Edwin and William Cashman, also brothers of the bridegroom.

     The bride was attired in an aqua suit of wool sheer with accessories in coffee shade. Her corsage was of orchids. Miss O'Brien wore a gabardine suit in coffee color with aqua accessores. She had a corsage of pink roses.

Page 750

4-3-48

HICKEY AND CASHMAN VOWS TAKEN
(Continued)

     Following the ceremony, a wedding breakfast was served in the Pearl Harbor room of Hotel Muscatine for 20 relatives. Appointments were carried out in aqua and coffee chosen colors of the bride.

     Mrs. Cashman is a graduate of St, Mathias High School and of Clarke College, Dubuque. Mr. Cashman was educated in the public schools and is a graduate of the commercial department of St. Ambrose, Davenport. He is now engaged in farming and cattle feeding.

     After a short wedding trip, the couple will be at home on Route 2, Letts.

6-16-48

75 TOWNSHIP TOUR AND PICNIC BOOKED JUNE 20

     The Seventy Six Township 4-H Club and Farm Bureau Tour will begin at 8:30 a.m. June 20 at the Herbert Gifford Farm.

     A picnic will be held at noon at the Forrest Townsley farm home with each family requested to bring table service and card tables The afternoon will be occupied with a ball game.

     Committees are as follows: Table - Mrs. Earl Eichelberger, Mrs. Herbert Gifford, Mrs. Newton Watson, and Mrs. Downer. Coffee and and cold drink - Mrs. Arthur Brookhart, Mrs. Ward Harvey. Pop and ice cream - Eddie Eichelberger, Entertainment - Mr. and Mrs. Emmett 0'Toole, Mr. and Mrs. Ward Harvey.

7-3-48

MRS. O'TOOLE, 87, DEATH OCCURS AT BYRNE HOME

     Mrs. James O'Toole, 87, a lifelong resident of this community, died at 10 p.m. Friday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. W. J. Byrne, 136 East Ninth Street, She had been in failing health for some time but had been critically ill only the last few weeks.

     She was born in Seventy-Six Township on July 19, 1861, the daughter of Dennis and Katherine Dalton Ryan and spent her entire life in that community. She was married to James 0'Toole on April 8, 1884 at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon, of which she was a member.

     Surviving are five sons, Phillip and Emmet of Letts, Edward of Houston, Texas, Francis of Muscatine and Gerald of Davenport, two daughters, Mrs. W. J. Byrne and Mrs. Fred Aull, both of Muscatine, two brothers, James Ryan of Davenport and Phillip Ryan of Florida, four sisters, Mary Ryan of Davenport, Mrs. Nellie Mahoney of Davenport, Mrs. Kate Younkin of Denver, Colorado, and Mrs. Winifred Driver of Chicago. 24 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents, one son and three sisters.

Page 751

7-3-48

MRS. O'TOOLE, 87, DEATH OCCURS AT BYRNE HOME
(Continued)

     Funeral arrangements will be held Monday, July 5, at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon, at 9 a.m. with the Rev, E. J. O'Hair officiating. The body is at the Riley Funeral Home where Rosary services will be recited at 8 p.m. Sunday evening.

7-6-48

FUNERAL RITES - MRS. JAMES O’TOOLE

     Final rites for Mrs. James O'Toole, 87, who died at 10 p.m. Friday were held at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon at 9 a.m. Monday. Rev. E. J. O'Hair was celebrant of the requeim high mass with Rev. George Snell assisting.

     Kenny Lange and Michael Mane served as altar boys and a choir composed of JoAnn Lange, Robert Newton, Jack Jarrard and Robert Hines sang the mass with Mrs. Charles Willey accompanying on the organ. Burial was in Ardon cemetery.

     Flower attendants were Margaret and Agatha O'Toole, pallbearers were Emmet and Leo Byrne, Richard, Eugene and Emmet O'Toole and Leonard Aull. The Riley Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Page 752

3-9-49

EDWARD HEALEY, FORMER ARDON RESIDENT, DIES

     Edward A. Healey, 59, a veteran of World War No. 1 and former resident of the Ardon community died at Washington, D.C. Tuesday according to word received by relatives.

     He was born at Ardon and is survived by three brothers, Michael, and Andrew, of near Ardon, and Mark, Dayton, Ohio, four sisters, Mrs. John Shumaker and Mrs. Annie Connell, both of Oelwein, la., Mrs. Walter Dorsey, Maywood, 111, and Mrs. Marie Klink, Rosebud, Oregon.

     Funeral services will be conducted at 9 a.m. Friday at Washington D.C. and burial will be in the Arlington National Cemetery.

5-30-49

L. J. BYRNE, 64, DEATH OCCURS AT FARM AT ARDON

     L. J. "Larry" Byrne, 64, prominent and lifelong resident of Seventy- Six Township, died at 10:10 a.m. Sunday at his home near Ardon after an illness of six months with a heart ailment.

     Mr. Byrne was b o m in Seventy-Six Township on March 12, 1885, the son of Thomas and Catherine Grant Byrne. He never married. Mr. Byrne was a member of St. Malachy's Church at Ardon.

     Surviving are four brothers, John J. and Frank Byrne, who made their home with him, Peter Byrne, Cedar Rapids, and William J. Byrne, Muscatine, one sister, Mrs. Rupert Kautz, Buffalo, la., a cousin Mary A. Byrne, who served as housekeeper for the Byrne brothers, six nephews, Paui Byrne, Cedar Rapids and James, Robert, Leo, Emmett and William Byrne all of Muscatine, three nieces, Mrs. Jr. R. Geraghty, Cedar Rapids, Mrs. Robert Foster, Cedar Rapids, and Mrs. Charles Doran, Tama, la. Preceding him in death were his parents and two brothers.

     The body was taken by the Riley Funeral Home by the residence in the Ardon community at 2 p.m. today where the Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Funeral services will be conducted at 9 a.m. Wednesday at St. Malachy's Church by the pastor, the Rev. Father F. J. O'Hair. Interment will be in St. Malachy's Cemetery.

Page 753

6-1-49

L. F. BYRNE

     Solemn requiem high mass was celebrated at 9 a.m. today at St. Malachy's Church in Ardon for L. J, "Larry" Byrne, whose death occurred Sunday at his home in Seventy-Six Township. The Rev. Father Leonard Brugman of the University of Iowa was the celebrant of the mass and burial was in St, Malachy's Cemetery at Ardon.

     Assisting at the altar were the Rev. Father E. J, O'Hair, pastor of the church, who preached the sermon, the Rev. Father Bernard Brugman, of St, Ambrose College in Davenport, as sub-deacon, and Msgr. Ambrose Burke, president of St. Ambrose College in Davenport. Acolytes were Emmet O'Toole and Edward Riley.

     A choir comprised of Delphine O'Toole, Ruth, Alexander, Robert Hines, Robert Newton, Rosemary Stark, Arlene Fuegen and Gertrude Carroll sang the mass with Kathleen Kook as the organist.

     Mrs. Phillip Digney was in charge of the flowers while casket bearers were John Lee, Leonard Schupman» Andrew Healey, Leo Furlong, and Emmett and W. J. O'Toole, The Filey Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

6-17-49

MARGARET FOLEY, LIFELONG RESIDENT, DIES

     Margaret Foley, 83, lifelong resident of the Ardon community, died at 6:15 p.m. Thursday at her home on rural route No, 1, Letts after a brief illness.

     The daughter of Andrew and Mary Sweeney Foley, she was born April 18, 1866 in Seventy-Six Township. She was a member of St, Malachy's Church at Ardon.

     Surviving are two brothers, Mr. M, W. Foley and M. J, Foley, at home three sisters, Miss Agnes Foley and Miss Mayme Foley, both of Letts, and Mrs. J, R. Brookhart of West Liberty. Her parents, one brother and one sister preceded her in death.

     The body will be taken to the Foley home late this afternoon, by the Fairbanks Home for Funerals and the Rosary will be recited there at 8 o'clock tonight. Rites will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Malachy's Church with Father E. J. O'Hair in charge. Burial will be in the Ardon cemetery.

Page 754

6-22-49

FUNERAL RITES - MISS FOLEY

     Attendants were announced today for the funeral rites of Miss Margaret Foley of the Ardon community, conducted at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon. The Rev. E. J. O'Hair was in charge. Burial was in the Ardon cemetery with the Fairbanks Home for Funerals directing arrangements.

     Michael Mann served as acolyte with Paul Healey and Harry Cashman as ushers, Doris and Delphine O'Toole had charge of flowers. Pallbearers were Emmett and Phil O'Tooke, William Cashman, Frank Byrne. Phillip Digney and Leo Furlong.

6-24-49

DONNA EICHELBERGER ELECTED STATE GIRLS’ FOUR-H CLUB PRESIDENT
Distribution of "Eichelberger" Pays Off for Muscatine High Valedictorian.

     Muscatine County has a state Four-H President. She is Donna Eichelberger, 17 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Levi W. Eichelberger of Lake Township.

     The highest office in Iowa girls' Four-H was accorded the Lake Township girl Thursday night at the state convention being held at Ames.

     Other officers elected were Doris Whane, Linn Grove, Vice President Margaret Mitchell, Fairfax secretary-treasurer, and Carol Dee Legg, Hudson, historian.

     Donna is attending the convention along with representatives of other Muscatine county girls' Four-H clubs. The delegation is returning to Muscatine today.

     Donna, who was valedictorian of her graduating class at Muscatine high school this year, has an outstanding record in Four-H work.

     The only girl in her family, she has three brothers, ages 19, I8 and 13, all Four-H members. The two oldest brothers have been county officers and Donna hopes the 13 year old brother will go just as far as the rest of the family in Four-H.

     The Lake Township girl told the Iowa State College Information Service that as soon as all the convention ceremonies are over she’s going to start to work at the Muscatine County Court House.

     When asked what she likes most about Four-H, Donna said it's getting to know other girls”, then too, she likes the idea of being able to help her friends in Four-H.

     Music plays a big part in Donna's life. For 10 years she's been playing the piano and is kept busy accompanying various organizations.

Page 755

6-24-49

DONNA EICHELBERGER ELECTED STATE GIRLS' FOUR-H CLUB PRESIDENT
(Continued)

     Donna is left handed and like most left handed people, she has her troubles - particularly when she's trying to hand a pair of scissors made for right handed persons.

     "I know they make scissors for left handed people but I've never been able to find any" she says.

     Even with the handicap. Donna thinks the clothing project is one of the best parts of Four-H club work.

     Serving with the Muscatine County Four-H member on the state staff will be three other officers with enviable records in Four-H.

     Doris Whade, 17. of Linn Grove, the new vice president, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. C. Whade and has been a club member for seven years. The secretary treasurer, Margaret Mitchell, 17, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Mitchell of Fairfax. She has won a radio playwriting contest and has had poems published. Carol Dee Legg. also 17. state historian, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E, Legg of Hudson and won the state girls' long-time record book contest last year.

     A resolution expressing favor for a state club camp was passed by the convention delegates.

7-14-49

MISS HEALEY IS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP

     Miss Mary Healey of Muscatine, Rural Route 6, is to be the recipient of a $500 scholarship awarded for study in Latin America by some 900 Federated Women's Clubs of Iowa, according to word received by Mrs. F. W. McDougal, President of the Ethics Club of Muscatine.

     Miss Healey, who was selected from amoung 10 candidates in the state was sponsored by the local Ethics club.

     During the past year, she has studied toward her master's degree while teaching Spanish classes as a graduate assistant at the State University of Iowa where she received her B.A. degree in 1948. She began her successful pursuit of Spanish and Latin American affairs as a student at Muscatine High School and Muscatine Junior College.

     The scholarship will take her to the University of Santiago, Chile early next year and the Institute of International Education is expected to make a ravel award to supplement the supend from the Federated clubs.

     Miss Healey is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Healey, Rural Route 6.

Page 756

7-27-49

WORN TELEGRAPH KEY, WHICH SENT MESSAGE FROM ARDON
THROUGH GENERATION, ABANDONED

     A worn telegraph key that for more than a generation has been clicking out messages of hope and despair, and of life and death stands dust-covered and silent today in the Milwaukee Depot at Ardon.

     Residents of the community ten miles southwest of Muscatine may never again hear the clackety clack of the little instrument that once served as their best and closest link with the outside world.

     The Milwaukee Depot and the agency telegraph office at Ardon have been closed since July 1. It probably never will be reopened. The federal communications commission at Washington, D.C. has given the public until August 10 to protest or support the telegraph office closing.

NEED WAS VITAL

     There has a real need for a telegraph office at Ardon back in 1901 when the service was established with the complication of the Milwaukee railroad. Miles were a real barrier in those days. Today however, good roads and automobiles enable residents of the community to drive to Muscatine in a few minutes to transact their telegram business.

     Closing of the wire agency at Ardon ends the career there of a man who has given a life time to the job of depot agent and telegraph operator in the community. He is Leo A. Summers. Mr. Summers started his telegraph career early. As a boy, he practiced operating the key in his spare time. He got his first chance at a job on July 4, 1906. The telegraph operator in his home town, Highland Center, Ia., wanted to attend a Fourth of July celebration. He asked Summers to take over during his absence. The youth performed the work creditably and soon was entrusted with temporary jobs at Parson, the first station this side of Ottumwa and at South Amana.

     He was only 18 years old when he assumed the job of depot agent and telegraph operator at Ardon on July 28, 1906, just 43 years ago next Thursday.

CENTER OF INTEREST

     Taking up his work here long before the days of radio and telegraph Mr. Summers found that he had at his finger tips what was regarded as one of the most marvelous inventions in the field of communication Farmers dropped into the depot to watch the machine work. Messages of births, deaths and other events of great personal importance rattled through the key. Mr. Summers recalls two of his most poignant of messages followed a mine disaster about 30 years ago.

     The first wire from an Ardon relative to the scene of the disaster Asked: "Is Bill dead or alive?" In an hour the answer flashed back "Still Alive - No Hope."

Page 757

7-27-49

WORN TELEGRAPH KEY, WHICH SENT MESSAGES
FROM ARDON THROUGH GENERATION, ABANDONED
(Continued)

     Most of the time Mr. Summers said, in looking back over his 43 years at Ardon, there was very little excitement at the office. One memorable event was a train derailment near the Lutheran Homes about 30 years ago. Another was the destruction by fire of the Ardon depot during World War 1. A spark from a locomotive was blamed. Building material was difficult to obtain at that time and subsitute quarters were set up in two box cars - one serving as an office and the other as a freight house. Later, the depot was rebuilt on the same foundaton and according to the same style of architecture as the previous structure.

SHIPMENTS STILL HANDLED

     Although the Ardon depot is closed, shipments in and out of the station are still being handled. Accounts are kept at the Conesville station. Incidentally, the depot agent at Conesville is Mr. Summers' brother Iverson A. Summers. The brother has been at Conesville for 36 years and during most of thattime has worked "side by side" with the brother at Ardon. The two have exchanged telegraph messages almost daily.

     Mr. and Mrs. Leo Summers sold their home at Ardon two years ago and since that time have been living in the depot. Mrs. Summers is the former Miss Anna E. Byrne of Seventy-Six Township. They were married at Ardon.

     They have three sons, a daughter and three grandchildren. Of their sons, John is an x-ray technician at Aurora, Ill., Dr. Thomas B. Summers is at the University Hospital in Iowa City, and Joseph B. Summers is an engineer in Denver, Colorado. Their daughter is Mrs. George Haffner, Grand Island, Neb. Their grandchildren are Penelope Ann and Thomas Byrne Summers of Iowa City and Mary Kay Haffner of Grand Island.

Page 758

12-12-49

W. B. MILHOLIN, AGED 74 YEARS, CALLED IN DEATH

     William Bertom Milholin, 74, a resident of Muscatine County all of his life died at 6:15 p.m. Sunday at Hershey Hospital. His address was 805 East Seventh Street.

     He was born in 76 Township on January 15, 1875 the son of Richard and Matilda Kirk Milholin. His marriage to Maggie Cochran took place in Lake Township on November 27. 1901. Mr. Milholin was a retired farmer.

     Surviving are his wife, one daughter, Mrs. Mabel Chelf of Muscat: and one sister, Ada Busch of Muscatine. Preceding him in deather were his parents, two brothers, Robert and Joseph, three sisters, Mrs. Minnie Freers, Mrs. Jennie Beckey and Miss Emaline Milholin.

     The body is at the Fairbanks Funeral Home and will remain there for the services to be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery.

12-14-49

FUNERAL RITES - W. B. MILHOLIN

     Funeral services for William Berton Milholin were conducted at 2 p.m. today at the Fairbanks Home for Funerals by Dr. Joseph Kennedy pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. Mr. Milholin's death occurred Sunday at Hershey Hospital. Casket bearers were Matt Lindle, James Digney, Robert Bosch, Don Milholin, Reinhart Paetz and Walter Rauch while in charge of flowers were Mrs. Zelda Massey, Mrs. Fred Welch and Mrs. Walter Rauch, Miss Eda Critz was at the organ.

Page 759

2-1-50

YEAR'S PROGRAM OF 76 TOWNSHIP BUREAU OUTLINED

     Topics and committees for the monthly meetings to be held during the year by the Seventy-Six Township Farm Bureau were announced today.

     The topics and committee members for each month are as follows:

     February - Citizens' Responsibility Toward Government. C. W. Thomas Eal Bailey, Same Altekruse, Mervil Tomney, C. McBride and C. T. McCabe, The Four-H boys will be in charge of a Four-H demonstration and sale of lunch.

     March - Soil Conservation, Ernest Meeker, John Lee and son, Lee Riggs, W. J. O'Toole, Leo A. Summers, A. E. Timberlake and Glen H. Crow.

     April - Strengthening Our Spiritual Foundations. Fay Gibson, Leonard Shoopman, Ed Furlong, John litter and George Kruse. The Four-H girls will serve lunch and give a demonstration.

     May - Health. F. E. Townsley, Ralph Essex, Phil Digney, Ed Healey, William Kramer and Glen Buster.

     June - Strengthening Youth Program. Four-H tour. Cloyce Downer, Kenneth Duncan, Herbert Gifford and Emmett O'Toole.

     September - Resolutions Forum, Leo Furlong, Maurice Furlong, Ted Noel, Glen Whiteley, Margaret Timney and O'Brien and O'Brien.

     October - Report of Youth Program. Jim McLaughlin, George Sulzberger, Dan Lang, Carl Lang and John Thirtyacre.

     November - International Questions. Dick Edmonds, Ben Sywassink, O.E. Eichelberger, H. W. Heilein, J. S. McBride and Gertrude Vincent.

     December - Reports of Sub-Projects and Christmas Party. Combination meeting with Cedar, Edward Lee, Weldon Barnhart, Walter Barnhart, and Glenn Whitley, Jr.

Page 760

2-14-50

PATTON-SUMMERS MARRIAGE IN DENVER IS ANNOUNCED

     Of local interest is the announcement of the marriage of Miss Rose L. Patton and Joseph B. Summers, both of Denver, Colorado, which took place at 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Denver. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo A. Summers of Ardon. The Rev. John Haley was celebrant of the nuptial mass and officiated at the marriage ceremony.

     Mrs. Summers was attended by her sister, Mrs. V. J. Murphy, and was given in marriage by Mr. Murphy, her brother-in-law. John L. Summers of Aurora, Ill., served his brother as best man and ushers were Ernest Pemberton, classmate of the bridegroom at the State University of Iowa and Leon Thompson of Denver.

     The bride was attired in a parasol pink milateen suit with accessories in coffee shade. On a white prayer book she carried an orchid arranged with ribbon and orange blossom showers. The prayer book and her pearl necklace were gifts of the bridegroom.

     Mrs. Murphy wore a gray suit with pink and gray accessories, she also carried an orchid on a prayer book.

     A wedding breakfast for relatives and close friends was served in the Skyline room of the Paris Lane Hotel. Upon their return from a wedding trip to Mexico City and Acapulco, Mexico, Mr. and Mrs. Summers will be at home at 1449 Emerson, Denver, Colorado.

     Mrs. C. B. Howe, 506 East Eighth Street, was among relatives of the bridegroom in attendance at the wedding.

3-7-50

DR. SUMMERS WILL SPEAK FOR MUSCATINE CLUB

     Dr. Thomas Summers, a member of the staff of the University of Iowa engaged in extensive research work there, will discuss the operation of the medical school at the university and of the university’s research work when he speaks to Muscatine Club members at their luncheon Thursday noon.

     Wally Mann is program chairman for the meeting.

     Dr. Summers, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Summers of Ardon, was educated in the rural schools here and graduated from St. Mathias high school in 1938. He received his M.D. degree from Iowa in 1944 and serving his internship, while in the Army medical corps, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. He was discharged from service in 1947 after service in Okinawa.

Page 761

1-4-51

NEWSPAPERS ARE FOUND RICHEST HISTORY SOURCE

     Newspapers are the richest single source of Iowa history, according to William J. Peterson, editor of the Palimpsest, in his foreword to the December issue of the publication of the State Historical Society of Iowa.

     Peterson made the statement in an introduction to two articles based on information taken from early Iowa newspapers.

     "Stumping Iowa in 1860" by Petersen deals with the congressional campaigns of Samuel Curtis and Chester Cole in that year as reported in Iowa papers. The article covers the campaign techniques and speechs of the four presidential candidates - Lincoln, Douglas, Bell and Breckinridge.

     "Farming in 1866", the second article, is two letters presenting opposing views of life on Iowa farms at that time.

     Included in the issue is an index to the 1950 volume.

5-2-51

MILWAUKEE TO DISCONTINUE TWO TRAINS IN AREA

     The Milwaukee railroad announced Tuesday that trains No. 3 and 8 between Kansas City and Davenport, will be discontinued Saturday. These trains serve the Muscatine area three times each week. The west bound train, due here at 8:32 a.m. operates Monday, Wednesday and Friday, while the east bound train, scheduled at 6:02 p.m. operates on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

     The Associated Press dispatch from Chicago, announcing the discontinuance, stated the railroad received authority for the removal from the Missouri Commerce Commission. It had received permission from the Iowa Commerce Commission about 10 days ago.

     The line asked the abandonment because of lack of patronage.

Page 762

5-21-51

DEATH SUMMONS M. W. FOLEY, 83, OF LETTS AREA

     M. W. Foley, 83 of Letts, rural route 1, died at 5:10 a.m. today at Bellevue Hospital after an extended illness.

     The son of Andrew and Mary Sweeney Foley he was born Dec 8, 1867 in Seventy-Six Township. He spent most of his life in Muscatine County, having lived for 30 years in Colorado. Mr. Foley was a farmer and was single. He was a member of St. Malachy's Church at Ardon.

     Surviving are one brother, Matt J. Foley of Letts; and three sisters, Miss Agnes Foley and Miss Mayme Foley, both of Letts, and Mrs. J. R. Brookhart of West Liberty. Two sisters and one brother preceded him in death.

     The body has been taken to the Fairbanks Home for Funerals and the Rosary will be recited there at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Funeral services will be conducted at 9 a.m. Wednesday at St. Malachy's Church in charge of the Rev. E. J. O'Hair. Burial will be in St. Malachy's cemetery at Ardon.

5-23-51

M. W. Foley

     Requiem high mass for M. W. Foley, 83, of Letts, who died at Bellevue Hospital, was held at 9 a.m. today at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair celebrating the mass. Michael Mann was the acolyte and the mass was sung by a high school chorus.

     Paul Healey and Harry Cashman were ushers and .pallbearers were Emmett O'Toole, Phil O'Toole, William Cashman, Frank Byrne, Phil Digney and Leo Furlong.

     Burial was in St. Malachy's cemetery under the direction of the Fairbanks Home for Funerals.

11-26-51

OBJECT FOUND BY ARDON MAN WAS WEATHER BALLOON

     Weather bureau officials at the Moline airport have an explanation for a deflated rubber balloon, found Saturday by Weldon Barnhart of near Ardon.

     The balloon found by Mr. Barnhart was reported-to be about 12 feet in diameter and had a wooden framework with luminous covering attached This is to facilitate observations the weather bureau officials reported. Barnhart said he discovered the balloon when he went to investigate something that was reflecting the sun brightly in his pasture. He said there were no instruments nor any identification on the balloon.

2-13-52

HEART AILMENT PROVES FATAL TO FRANK BYRNE, 71

     Frank Byrne, 71, a lifelong resident of the Ardon community was found dead this morning at his home. He had been suffering from a heart ailment the past eight months.

     The son of Thomas and Catherine Grant Byrne, he was born March 9, 1880. A farmer he was never married and was a member of St. Malachy's Church at Ardon.

     Survivors include three brothers, John of Ardon, with whom he made his home, Pete of Cedar Rapids and W. J. Byrne of Muscatine: and one sister, Mrs. Ruppert Kautz of Buffalo. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Lawrence, just a few years ago and two brothers in infancy.

     Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Malachy's Church with the Rev. E. J. O'Hair in charge.

     The body is now at the Riley Funeral Home and will be returned to the farm home at 2:30 p.m. Thursday. The rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Friday. Burial will be at the Ardon cemetery.

2-18-52

FUNERAL RITES - FRANK BYRNE

     Solemn Requiem high mass was held at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Malachy's Church of Ardon for Frank Byrne, whose death occurred early Wednesday.

     Officers of the mass were the Rev. E. J. O'Hair, pastor of St. Malachy's Church celebrant, the Rev. Leonard" Brugman, director of the Catholic students' center at the State University of Iowa, deacon: the Rev. George E. Snell, assistant pastor of St. Mary's church of Muscatine, subdeacon. The acolyte was Michael Mann.

     The mass was sung by a choir composed by Mary Ann Oberhaus, Patricia Orr and Mary Helen Kelly.

     Pallbearers were John, Lee, Philip Digney, Leonard Shoopman, Eramett O'Toole, Leo Furlong and Andrew Healey. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Riley Funeral Home.

     Burial was at the Ardon Cemetery.

Page 764

4-14-52

W. J. O'TOOLE, 70, SUCCUMBS AFTER LENGTHY ILLNESS

     William J. O'Toole, 70, life-long resident at Muscatine County, died at Bellevue Hospital at 3:45 p.m. Saturday after an 18 month illness. His home was on a farm north of Letts.

     Mr. O'Toole, the son of Patrick O'Toole and Mary Griffin O’Toole was born in Muscatine County March 19, 1882 and reside here his entire life with the exception of 10 years spent in Colorado He was a farmer by vocation and was a member of St. Malachy’s Church of Ardon.

     Surviving are the following brothers and sisters, John of Colorado, Molly of Hammond, Ind., Agatha and Margaret at home and Sister M. Annette, B.V.M., of Hawaii. His parents and two brothers preceded him in death.

     The body has been taken to the family home and the Rosary will be be recited there at 8 o'clock tonight. Requiem High Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. Tuesday at St. Malachy's Church at Ardon with the Rev. E, J. O'Hair in charge. Funeral arrangements are in charge of the Riley Funeral Home of Muscatine. Burial will be in the Ardon Cemetery.

5-7-52

MISS FOLEY TO CONCLUDE LONG SERVICE CAREER

     Plans for the party honoring Miss Mayme Foley, who is completing her 48th consecutive year of teaching in the Nichols school system are rapidly nearing completion. The party will be held Saturday evening, May 10, at the school auditorium from 7:30 until 9 p.m.

     Committee in charge of general arrangements includes B. F. Nichols, chairman; Alberta Kelly, secretary; Floyd Kirchner, treasurer; Marie Kaalberg, Lawrence Salemink, Russell Reynolds, Peggy Smith, Herbert Schmitt and Walter Morris.

     Invitation and finance committee chairman is F. A. Kirchner and Marie Kaalberg and Russell Reynolds assisting him. Chairman of the reception committee is Peggy Smith, with Neil Schmitt and Edith Newton working on the committee.

     Co-chairman for the program committee are Helen Tatge and Alberta Kelly. Others on the committee are Neva Borgstadt, Alberta Bekker Bernice Hadley, Leroy Marine, Charlene Meacham, Edna Kirchner, CIeve Hazen and Herbert Schmitt.

     Mervin Shafer will act as master of ceremonies for the program Helen Rice and Joy Coon will be in charge of the guest book. Junior and senior high school girls will be ushers, and music is in charge of Ralph Borgstadt.

Page 765

4-15-52

FUNERAL RITES - WILLIAM J. O'TOOLE

     Requiem high mass was held at 9 a.m. today at St. Malachy's Church for William J. O'Toole, whose death occurred Saturday. The celebrant was the Rev. E J. O'Hair.

     The acolyte was Michael Mann. The choir was composed of Denise Ales, Patricia Orr and Mary Ann Oberhaus. Vada Zybarth was the organist.

     Pallbearers were: Ulrich Lintner, Lawrence Estle, Emmett O'Toole, Will Byrne, Phil Cashman and Ed Healey. Flower attendants were Patricia and Dorothy O'Toole.

     In charge of funeral arrangements was the Riley Funeral Home.

     Burial was at the Ardon Cemetery.

7-1-52

MRS. DOWNER, 79, LIFELONG COUNTY RESIDENT, DIES

     Mrs. Viola Lang Downer, 79» a life resident of Muscatine county, died at 9:05 a.m. today at Bellevue Hospital following an illness of two weeks.

     The daughter of Henry N. and Eileen Wagner Lange, she was born Jan. 23, 1873 in Wilton township. She also lived formerly in Sweetland township and been a resident of the city of Muscatine 10 years. Her address at the time of her death was 113 Magnolia Street.

     She was married August 25, 1892 to John T. Downer at the home of her parents. She was a member of the Park Avenue Methodist Church of the WSCS.

     Survivors are one son, Ray E. Downer, Muscatine; two brothers, H. Newton Lang and Joseph Lang, both of Moscow townships; one sister, Mrs. Ella L. Wahl, Paton; one grandson, Robert R. Downer, Grinnell; and one great grandson, Billy Ray Downer, Grinnell. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two brothers, and one sister.

     Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral home. The Rev. James H. Sloan, pastor of the Park Avenue Methodist church, will be in charge.

     Friends may call at the Funeral home after Wednesday noon.

     Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery.

Page 766

7-3-52

FUNERAL RITES - MRS. VIOLA DOWNER

     Funeral services for Mrs. Viola Downer, 79. who died Tuesday morning at Bellevue hospital, were conducted at 2:30 this afternoon at the Ralph J. Wittich Funeral Home. The Rev. James H. Sloan, pastor of the North Circuit of Methodist Churches, was in charge.

     Mrs. John McCullough and Mrs. Carl Walter were vocalists and Mrs. George Holliday was at the organ.

     Serving as flower attendants were Mrs. Herbert Dickinson, Mrs. Charles Koll and Mrs. Albert Eckhardt, Pallbearers included Henry Paul, Paul Meerdink, Charles Koll, Hilbert Dickinson, Charles Shepard and Charles Sywassink.

     Interment was in Greenwood cemetery.

8-28-52

VERNON LEGLER, LIFELONG COUNTY RESIDENT, DIES

     Vernon W. Legler, lifelong resident of Seventy-Six Township, died at 4:40 p.m. Wednesday at his home on rural route 5, following an extended illness. The body was taken to the Fairbanks Home for Funerals, where services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday with the Rev. Max Allen, pastor of the United Brethren Church at Cranston, in charge. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

     He was born May 19, 1885, in Seventy-Six Township, the son of David and Lottie C. Simpson Legler. His marriage to Lillian E. Kemper took place Dec. 22, 1909. in Muscatine. He was a member of Cranston United Brethren church and of the Masonic Lodge. He was a retired stock feeder and farmer.

     Survivors include his wife, one son, Morris of Muscatine, four daughters, Mrs. John Wilson and Mrs. Glen Fryberger of Muscatine Mrs. George Moore of Des Moines and Mrs. James Reich of Moline and 13 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

9-2-52

FUNERAL RITES - VERNON W. LEGLER

     Funeral services for Vernon W. Legler were conducted by the Rev. Max Allen of the Cranston United Brethren Church at the Fairbanks Home for Funerals at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Burial was at Greenwood Cemetery.

     Mrs. Gertrude Brannan was organist at the service. Flower attendants were Mrs. C. A. Edmonds, Mrs. Walter Barnhart and Mrs. Don McNeal. Pallbearers were C. A. Edmonds, Lee Riggs, Leo Furlong, Lloyd Lee, Weldon Barnhart and Don McNeal.

Page 767

10-31-52

FLAMES RACE OVER FIELDS AROUND ARDON

     Estimates have been revised downward this morning in the fire which burned a large area of land about 10 miles southwest of Muscatine near Ardon Thursday night.

     It was thought by farmers living in that area today that between seven and eight hundred acres had been burned off during the fire which began about 3:30 Thursday afternoon.

     Rumors were plentiful at the height of the fire with some estimates of as high as 2,500 acres given.

Fanned By Wind

     Crews setting up snow fence along the Milwaukke tracks near the overhead bridge east of Cranston were believed the first to discover the fire which was believed to have been caused by sparks from a locomotive. A stiff southern breeze spread the flames rapidly for two and a half miles along the tracks.

     Several fire trucks in the area were called into service to battle the flames which threatened farm buildings in the area. The Muscatine rural truck was on the scene in addition to units from Letts, Columbus Junction and Wilton.

     Many volunteers were out to fight the blaze and farmers utilized tractors to plow furrows along the edge of fields to prevent the fire from spreading. Flames were visible for several miles.

     Headquarters of the Eastern Iowa Light and Power Cooperative at Wilton reported that its spray truck, which has a 600 gallon water tank was sent to the area and that four shortwave trucks aided with communications.

Power Lines Escape

     REA electrical transmission lines escaped without damage and it was not necessary to interrupt electrical service.

     The blaze was under control at about 7 p.m. but continued to burn for several hours. A guard was maintained overnight in the fear that wind might carry the sparks from the charred fields to adjoining land.

     Extent of the damage has not been estimated but residents of the burned area stated that most of the corn had been harvested and that the fire was contained mainly to fields of corn stalks, pastures and brush.

     Only building to burn was a 20 foot long shed in the field of the John Lee and Son farm. About 40 acres of corn was also destroyed at the Lee farm.

Page 768

10-31-52

FLAMES RACE OVER FIELDS AROUND ARDON
Continued

Cattle Driven To Safety

     At the Ernest Meeker farm cattle pastured in the danger area were driven out safely. Some corn was lost on the Margaret Ryan farm operated by Leo Furlong. Hay on the Lyle Eichelberger farm was threatened but furrows plowed around the area kept the flames from spreading to the hay.

     Some machinery in fields was damaged and wooden fence posts in area burned.

     Early reports stated that railroad trusties had been damaged in the blaze but it was not believed today that the damage was serious.

     Harry Flake, rural route 2, Letts, was treated at Hershey hospital Thursday night for burns to his right hand suffered in fighting the fire. He was released following treatment.

10-31-52

VIGIL MAINTAINED ACROSS THE STATE

     Iowa firemen and volunteers kept a vigil today for any new blaze which might break out and spread across the state's parched countryside.

     Fires burned out over a thousand acres of pastures, brush and timber Thursday.

     Fire crackled through 500 acreas of brush and timber in the vicinity of the old city dump about lj miles southeast of Cedar Rapids.

     The fire, fought by scores of volunteers, at first appeared to be of little consequence. But it flared up again Thursday as a 30-mile-an-hour wind whipped across the area.

Page 769

4-13-53

LEO A. SUMMERS, RETIRED AGENT AT ARDON, SUCCUMBS

     Leo A. Summers, 65, who for 43 years was depot agent for the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul railroad at Ardon, died at 11:25 p.m. Sunday at Mercy hospital in Iowa City, following a short illness. He had been a patient at the hospital for about a week and a half.

     Born Jan. 14, 1888, at Highland Center, la., Mr. Summers was the son of Thomas Adam and Ellen Hunter Summers. He married Anna E. Byrne June 8, 1910.

     He retired from his work as depot agent at Ardon in 1949 and the couple moved to Iowa City in January of 1950.

     Surviving besides the widow are a daughter, Mrs. G. N. Haffner, Grand Island, Neb.; three sons, John L., Denver, Colo., Dr. Thomas B. Summers, Iowa City, and Joseph B. Summers, Modesto, Calif, a brother, Iveson A. Summers, Conesville; five granddaughters, and a grandson.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and a brother.

     The body is at the Beckman Funeral Home in Iowa City. Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday at St. Wenceslaus church. The Rosary will be recited at the funeral home at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Burial will be in St. Joseph's cemetery at Iowa City.

12-5-53

MATT J. FOLEY DEATH OCCURS AT HOSPITAL HERE

     Matt J. Foley, whose home was on rural route 1, Letts, died at 8:30 a.m. today at Bellevue Hospital, following an extended illness. Mr. Foley was born in Seventy-Six Township, the son of Andrew and Mary A. Sweye Foley. He was a member of St. Malachy's Church at Ardon and was a retired farmer.

     Survivors include three sisters, the Misses Agnes and Mayme Foley, rural route 1, Letts, and Mrs. J. R. Brookhart of West Liberty. Preceding him in death were his parents, two sisters, and two brothers.

     The body is at the Fairbanks Funeral Home and the Rosary will be recited there at 8 p.m. Sunday. Funeral services are scheduled at 9 a.m. Monday at St. Malachy's Church, Ardon, with the Rev. E. J. O'Hare in charge. Burial will be in the Ardon Cemetery.

Page 770

12-7-53

FUNERAL RITES - MATT J. FOLEY

     Requiem High Mass, was held at 9 o'clock this morning at St. Malachy's Church, Ardon, for Matt J. Foley, who died Saturday at Bellevue Hospital. The Rev. E. J. O'Hair was celebrant of the mass and Michael Mann and James O'Toole served as acolytes. Phillipa Gaeta was organist and the St. Mathias girls choir sang.

     Flower attendants were Mrs. Phillip O'Toole, Mrs. Emmett O'Toole and Mrs. Phillip Cashman. Pallbearers included Phillip Digney, Harry Cashman, Paul Healey, W. E. Mann, Leo Furlong and Emmett O'Toole.

     Burial was in the Ardon Cemetery under the direction of the Fair banks Homes for Funerals.

2-13-54

ARDON, FRUITLAND POSTOFFICES WILL BE CLOSED

     Residents of Ardon and Fruitland, two Muscatine county villages will be getting their mail by a rural carrier six days out of week starting Feb. 16 and March 1, respectively, when their post- offices will be closed.

Eight Boxes

     The town of Ardon, with a population of 10 residents and a general store, operated by Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Mann, will no longer have its postoffice of eight boxes in use after Feb. 16. Delores R. Mann has been the postmaster there since Nov. 4, 1947.

     The Ardon postoffice was founded in 1903 in a grocery store just one block west of present postoffice. The first postmaster was Conrad Schwinn.

     The postoffice was moved to the present location in the Ardon store on Jan. 31. 1931 when the building previously utilized burned down.

     There never has been a rural route carrier working out of Ardon.

     The mail first was thrown off at Ardon from a Milwaukee train, but a few years ago the train was taken off and since that time the mail has been brought to the Ardon postoffice by a star routs truck.

Page 771

3-31-54

CLOSE POSTOFFICE AT ARDON AFTER SERVICE TODAY

     Today was the final day of service for the postoffice at Ardon, where seven boxholders have been serviced.

     The postoffice is being discontinued, as was announced in a letter to the Muscatine postoffice on Feb. 24, advising it that upon discontinuance of the Ardon postoffice, mail for Ardon would be received, delivered and accounted for by the Muscatine postoffice.

     Effective Thursday, Ardon will be served by the Muscatine carrier on route No. 5. Mrs. G. W, Mann said that two of the patrons of the office are being served by rural route operated from Letts and the other five are being added to the Muscatine route.

THE END.