CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY THE WEYL BOOK FUND ESTABLISHED IN I935 IN MEMORY OF JAMES SALLER WEYL OF THE CLASS OF 192.9 The original of tiiis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924028874141 (oil c b WARNERS HISTORY OF am mmMum. FROM THE DAYS OF THE ,- . Pioneers aid First Settlers ""^■^^ ~-~-*:— _ TO THE PRESENT TIME, ^~ WITH KTOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, AND ANECbOTES OF YE OLDEN TIMES, X BY rv. ^ M- M- WARNER, DAKOTA CITY, NEB. - ^, PTTBLISHED J5Y 'v I.voNS MIRROR Job Office. 1893. r (jp yc*- DEDICATION- « To Tin: MicMdRY OK ^[y Fatiike and ^[othkk, Mr. AND Mus. (\i\.. Jessie F. Wakneu: "|10NKKRS of Dakota county, tlirough wliosi' public spirit, untiring energy and sociability ■^V gicatiy aided in the public and social affairs of early times -the fornu'r by his icniarkable gilt of oratorical chMpiencc, was ever on the alert to lift up liis \'oicc foi' right and justice, for truth and moral- ity, and for the public good and welfare of Dakota county — to them this vdlume is reverently dedicnted by the author. EEEFACE. |^[0 fierce has been the mighty conflict between '(j^X advancing civilization and the wild abo. ''^- rigines of the West, that for many years these border lands were one vast graveyard, strewn with the bleaching bones of unburied heroes. Behold the wonderful changes wrought by the resistless arm of Time since the advent of the pioneers to Dakota county! It seems but yesterday that these daring men crossed the Missouri river and laid the foundation of all the wealth and prosperity of to-day. Pioneers are generally individuals or families of limited means. As population increases, all the wealth and luxuries of life fall into the hands of the rich, who wisely determine to enjoy the comfort of their old homes among friends they have grown up with, and leave to others less fortunate the task of opening up new roads and subjugat- ing new countries. It requires considerable nerve and force of character to do this, and none but the bravest and stoutest hearts can I'KKFACIO. muster up coiirage to undertake the daring ex- periment. In after years when the impartial historian shall chronicle the rise and progress of this, the greatest country the sun ever shown upon, no grander tributes, no higher monuments will ever be reared to any individual or class than to those who shouldered their axes and ri- fles, and with families and the little they could gather around them, bidding a sad farewell to friends and the home of their birth, plunged he- roically into the wild west and drove back the hordes of savage foes that lurked in the way. Here they built rude cabins, reared stockades, and with such improvised fortifications with- stood the hardships and privations and won vic- tories over opposing forces that justly entitles them to the world's highest coubideration. The wealthy seldom emigrate. But in all thickly populated countries there are those possessed of proud spirits and unconquerable energy, who, rather than remain and battle with a consuming poverty they can never hope to shake off, seek new homes where land is cheap and fertile, and where they may hope to reach independence and a respectable standing among their fellowmen. It matters not whether this year or in the years to follow, when you chance to look over this beautiful valley and the beautiful bluff lauds, covered with thrifty farms and happy homes, with school houses and churches, with railroads, thriving towns and villages, pause lor one brief moment to give praise uuto the daring pioneers to whom you are greatly indebted for the bounti- ful blessings which you to-day enjoy, and whose PREFACE. XIII names and the record of their heroic struggles appear in this book. The task of writing this book has, indeed- been no easy matter. It covers a period of more- than five years of work in collecting data, inci- dents, etc., which has brought me face to face with every old settler of the county, of whom I have gathered, from their own lips, the material contained in this history. One by one the pio- neers are passing away, and my object was to collect from each one facts which in a few more years would have been bnried with them in the crave and forever forgotten. I hope the children of the pioneers will preserve this record and keep forever green the memory of our county's early settlement. M. M. Wabnee. Dakota City, Neb., December 25, 1893. EULOGISTIC, !|^.ONOR to the pioneers^ I Honor to tlieir no- :T|q)1 ble wivey, who had the courage" to share l§(c alike with their husbands the trials aiul hardships of early times. People are apt to make light of the assertion that the pioneers were brave znen, but brave men they were, and who can ever truly deny it^ They went forth in the springtime of their years — in the morning of their lives, and after penetrating the "far west'" beyond the borders of civilization, finally stood as embattled heroes upon the wild primeval prairies of Dakota county. Heroic men, they marched with dauntless courage as veterans in the cause of civilization — as vanguards at the head of that vast army of emigrants which sub- sequently rolled across the rich and fertile plains of the west. Behold the scenes that met the gaze of this sturdy race of men thirty-seven years ago; no beautiful farms and pleasant homes; no thriving towns, schools and churches. The land was enveloped in rank prairie gras.^ and wild jangles — it was, indeed, one vast wil- EULUGISTIC. derness, where the birds of the air and the wild animals of the forest lived unmolested. — Here they lived to endure the hardships and priva. tions of pioneer life, to fight the battles of ad- versity, to meet and overcome the trying obsta- cles which everywhere obstructed their path, way, until these once wild and uninhabited prairies were transformed' into waving fields of grain, dotted here and there with happy homes, They are truly bricks interwoven in the founda- tion and general makeup of Dakota county cemented with a spirit fit to conquer a wilder- ness and prepare for you and your children the fairest land on earth. The pioneers of Dakota county are, as they richly deserve to be, not only the representative men of their own locality, but of all Northern Nebraska. Although some of them are well advanced in years, their might and influence still sways the course of enterprise and progress throughout this region, and the effect of their remarkable activity will continue to live and be felt long after they will have passed away. The changing years passed on, the pioneers conceived the idea of holding an- nual reunions, and it is truly a beautiful sight to see gathered together in one assemblage be- neath the shades of pleasant groves, those once sturdy pioneers of other days— the founders and builders of all this magnificent country, and to see them meeting and shaking hands with each other, and talking over the bygone times of more than a third of a century ago. And let them talk it over and over again, for those were heroic times in a heroic period of our county's history, Kii.ucjis'i ic. wir and the stories of tbeir fortitude, untiring en- ergy and triumphant battles in subjugating the wild and uninhabited lands of the ^ est will be told and retold to coming generations. In memory they live again a few brief hours of the past, and with the flight of imagination once more they behold Dakota county in its primeval state, covered with dense jungles and rank weeds and prairie grass. They were then in the prime of their lives, but now they n ett with locks whitened by the frost of years, to talk over those thrilling scenes of the days that are no more, in which they were once actors, and to renew their allegiance to the friendship formed in pioneer times, which death alone can sever. Praise to the pioneers! Build them a monument, and let it be reared aloft from some high peak as a fit- ting tribute in commemoration of the grand victory they have ■yvon. And may their honored names forever shine upon the fairest pages of our county's history, and be chanted in song by coming generations long after the last gray- haired veteran shall have filed down the silent aisles to the River of Death and pitched his tent, lighted his campfire and taken up anew claim in some other and better and grander "far west" beyond the gulf of Eternity on the shores of everlasting time. LIST OF ILLUSTEATIONS. Old Spring Grove Pioneer Log School House 6 Primeval Scene if Dakota City Lutheran Church 60 Sioux City, Iowa, and South Sioux City, Nebraska 97 Corn Palace of 1887 98 Corn Palace of 1888 and 1889 99 Corn Palace of 1890 and 1891 100 Proposed Corn Palace (never built) 102 Blyburg Lake 118 Seal of Nebi-aska 121 Col. Charles D. Martin 207 Gen. .Joseph HoUman 211 Col. Jesse F. Warner 227 Mrs. Hannah M. Warner 339 Judge Kelly W'. Frazer 347 Residence' of William Taylor and family 259 Dr. E. J. DeBell." ...,.' 291 Capt. Williailn Luther 306 Mrs. Capt William Luther 307 Col. Warner's Wild West Wire Stretcher 361 Adam WenzePs CoW Planter '.'. 362 Eugene B. Wilbur 369 TABLE OF CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Earliest Explorers ,., HI Lewis and Clarke Expedition 32 Death of Sergeant Floyd 88 CHAPTER II. Territory of Louisania and Missouri 40 First Steamer to Reach this I'oint 40 Other Adventurers . . 41 Treaty with the Omahas 42 CHAPTER III. Territory of Nebraska 43 Dakota County Organized 48 Advent of the Pioneers 44 CHAPTER IV. Geology 47 Natural Resources 47 XX CONTENTS. CHAPTER V. Extinct Towns 4S Omadi 49 Logan 52 St. Johns 53 Taciflc City 54 Franklin City 54 Blyburg 54 Verona 54 Randolph 55 Lodi 56 Emmett ' 55 CHAPTER Vr. Dakota County Towns 56 Dakota City 56 Covington 71 Jackson 78 Homer 83 Hubbard 88 Emerson 89 South Sioux (yity 93 Elk Valley 97 Coburn Junction 97 Necora , 97 Goodwin 7 CHAPTER VII. Products and Improvements 98 I'rizes and Medals 99 Cheese Makers Association 101 l''armers Club 101 Bridges and Roads 101 Railroads 103 CHAPTER VIII. Indians 106 CONTEUTS. XXI "The Logan War" 108 CHAPTER IX. Population 110 CHAPTER X. Crimes and Casualties Ill CHAPTER XI. Fires 116 CHAPTER XII. Great Storms and Blizzards 119 CHAPTER XIII. I'ublic Schools 123 CHAPTER XIV. County Officers and Date of Their Election 127 County Clerks 127 County Treasurers 128 County Sheriffs 128 County Judges 129 County Superintendents 130 County Surveyors 131 County Coroners . . 131 County Attorneys .... 132 County Registers 132 County Commissioners. 133 Board of Supervisors 133 .lustice of the Peace- Omadi 135 lustice of the Peace— Dakota 135 Justice of the Peace- St. Johns 136 J ustice of the Peace —Covington 137 Justice of the Peace— Piueon Creek 138 Justice of the Peace- Summit 138 XXII CUNTKNTS. ■ • ■) Justice of the Peace— Pender 1^ Justice of the Peace— Hubbard 139 Justice of the Peace— Emerson 139 County Assessors 1'^** Assessors— Omadi 1^" Assessors— Dakota City 1^1 Assessors— St. Johns 1*1 AHsessors -Covington 142 Assessors— Hubbard Assessors— Pigeon Creek 143 Assessors -Summit 143 4.§^essors - Emerson 143 Assessors —Pender 144 County Vote for Presideijts.. 144 Members of the Territorial Legislature 144 State Representatives 145 Members of the Territorial Council 145 State Senators 146 CHAPTER XV. Speicial Offices 147 Census Enumerators 148 Qtijier Elections 148 !pis,trict Court Judges 148 Organizing the Precincts 150 CHAPTER XVI. Public Cemeteries 153 Public Libraries 154 holidays 155 lioltom Disease 157 Ijost Steamer Nugget 15g Base Ball 158 Camp Meeting 159 Kerger Poor Farm 169 Soldiers' Relief Commission 160 Brass Bands IBl CONTENTS. XIIII CHAPTER XVII. Hiographieal Sketches 1K3 CHAPTER XVIII- Pioneers and Old Settlers Association 312 CHATPER XIX Anecdotes and Stories of Ye Olden Times 344 CHAPTER XX. Dakota County Inventions and Patents 861 CHAPTER XXI. Miscellaneous— County Seat Fight— Election of 1893, etc. 366 CHATPER XXII. Additional Biographical Sketches. / 368 HISTORICAL. CHAPTER I. Earliest Explorers- — Lewis and Clarke's Expedition AND Theik Sojourn in This Yioinity, THE beginning. fROBABLY the first white men, except fur traders, who ever gazed upon the rich and fei'tile prairies of ^^ Dakota eontity, were those of the Lewis and Clarke expedition, although Father Marquett, on a map drawn in the year of our Lord, 1673, traced the Missouri river at this point very accurately, and it niay be that lie trav- ersed the very soil where one hundred and eighty-two years afterward was oi'gaiiized Dakota countv. And it may be barely possible that Gen. Coronado, a Spanish cavalier, who is said to iiave reached the present limits of Nebraska in his expedition from the citj ot Mexico ill 1541, also beheld Dakota county in that year. Amonij; other things, Coronado in desciibinu: t!ie conn- try says: "Here I found plums, such as I have seen in JSpain, walnuts and excellent ripe grapes.'" Now the fact that Dakota county contains the oldest und lari^est 32 waknkr's history ok dakota county. walnut trees in Nebraska, makes it appear plausible that Ooronado and his 1,100 men actually stood npoii what is to-dav the banner corn county of the state of Nebraska, three hundred and fifty-three years agd. As a iiuniber of walnut trees cut down in tliis county have been found to be thj-ee hundred and eiglity years old, Coronado conld have gathered walnuts from any of them when they were thirty-one years old. In May, 1699, Iberville, a French officer, planted a colony on the Bay of Biloxi, within the present limits (jf the state of Mississippi, and took all the country be- tween the Alleghany and Tiocky Mountains in the name of France. This region was called Louisiana, and although what is now Dakota county was a small portion ot it, nevertheless, it was under French rule until JM^ovemljer 3, 1762, when the Province of Louisiana was ceded to Spain. Tin's region was then under Spanish control for thirty-seven years, when the Province of Louisiana was re-ceded to France, and about three yeai's later, on the 30th of April, 1803, it was ceded to the United States. Thus, for the first time, the soil on which we stand WHS under the ownership of our own country. THE LEWIS AND CLARKE KXPKDITION. On the acquisition of this vast territory to the United States, the president, Thomas JefFerson, planned an exploring expedition to ascertain the courses and sources of the Missouri river and most convenient water cominunicatifm thence to the Pacific Ocean. Captains Merriweather Lewis and William Clarke, both army ofticers, were placed in charge of the command, which consisted of nine young men fnim Kentucky, fourteeib soldiers of the United States army, who volunteered their services, two French watermen, an interpreter and iiunterand ahlack seivant belonging to Captain Clarke. A.11 these, except the last, were enlisted to serve as pri- vates during the expedition, which began ascending tiite I.KWIS AND (U.A141CE KXPKDl'IION. 83 Missouri river f'rotii its coiifluence with tlie Mississippi, May 14tii, 1804. Three sergeants were appointed among them, and besides the above named crew, tliei'e were a corporal and six soldiers, also nine watermen who were engaged to accompany the expedition as far as the Mandan nation. They had three boats or barges, tail- ing with them necessary stores and presents for the Indians, while two horses were led along the banks of the river to be used in liiinting. The expedition reached what is now Dakota connty, Monday, August 13, 1804, and passed up through what is now Biybnrg lake, (then the Missouri river) to a point opposite the old George ISr/iith place, where they found the nioutii of a streatn which they called Maha creek. This was Omaha creek, and the old settlers re- member when it emptied its waters at the above named point. They moved on, passing over the very place where, in recent years, Amberry Bates and others, raised crops of corn — t!ien the middle of the river, and camped that night at a point on the river north of the old Sam- uel Dearing place, (now owned by Andrew J. Parker), opposite a large island, which included the Win. Alte- tnns farm and what used to De known as the "George Woodh Timber." The river at that time extended arourid south of D. C Dibble's farm and out as far as A. H. Baker's farm, thence south and ihen east t-o Parker's place, as abo'^e stated. Here they remained in camp for several dnys treating with the Indians and ex- ploring tiie adjacent country. Soon alter they hud iialted on the 13tl), Sergeant Ord way and four men were detached to the Maha village, which extended from die Heniy ream place near Homer, to the old Muses Kreps place, now owned by David VTaterman. They started southwrn-d and traveled down a portion of what for many years has been known as the Rathbun lane and came to Omaha creek, at a point west of the Gideon Warner farm, where the guide 534 waknkr's iirt-roKY ov Dakota cdUNTV. meridian crosses that stream, thence west along it^ hank to where the Oak mill was hiiilt. Here thej cross^ed the Efk creek, which tliey called "the north brancli"an(l started south up Omaha creek, passing over the hmd now owned iiy Tim Mnrphy, I). Allen and John Brannt. Here is the diary for the expedition after they crossed Elk creek: "The walk was very fatigning, as they were forced to break their way through grass, snnfloweis and thistles, all above ten feet high and interspersed with wild pea. Five miles from our camp they reached the position of the ancient Malm village; it had once consisted of 800 cabins, but was burnt four years ago, soon after tiie small pox had destroyed 400 men and a proportion of women and children. On a hill, in the rear of the village, are the graves of the nation, to tlie south of which runs the fork of the Maha creek; this they crossed where it was abont ten yards wide, and followed its course to tlie Missouri river, passing along a ridge of hill for one mile and a half and a long pond between that and the Missouri; they then re-crossed the Maha creek and arrived at the camp, having seen no tracks of the Indians nor any sign of recent cultivation." Although the above narrative was written eighty- nine years ago, the exact extent of their wanderings can readily be determined. As has been above stated they left their camp on the river somewhere north of Par- ker's place, August 13th, going southward came to Oma- ha creek, thence west along its bank to Elk creek, which they crossed and proceeded, south to where Tlomer now stands. Here in the vicinity of Honier they camped that night, and the next day, the 14th, they explored the ruins of the ancient village of the Omaha Indians. They then ciossed Ojiialia creek at a point near where Henry Ream's house is now situated. The creek was then thirty feet wide and the water stood almost level with the banks, and this branch, or rather arm of Oma- r.KWISAND CI.AliKK EXI'KDITION . 85 lia creek run from Homer s-oiitli-east along the foot of the high bluffs through what is to-day known as the Keam, Ashlbrd, O'Connor and Warner tarius, a distance from Homer of about two miles and a half, where it again connected with the main stream. Of course the water of this portion of the stream would be stagnant except in liigh water, when it would become a running •stream. It appears that they mistook this for a regular branch of Omaha creek. The party then climbed to the top of the bluffs a'L the Henry Eeam place, where they found the graves of hundreds of Omaha Indians, who had died of the small pox. These graves can be seen to this day. They followed along the top of the bluffs back of the present site of Ashfoi-d's and O'Con nor's residences and def cended to the base of the bluff's near Pilgrim hill, thence along Onjaha creek to where it emptied into the JVlissouri; here they again crossed the creek and turned to the north-west, passing ever what used to be the Isaac Lsmoreaux place and thence north-west to their camp. On the morning of the 15th they saw a large smoke ascending from the forest to the north-east m the vicin- ity of the ''George Woods timber." fcfome men were sent to ascertain its cause and fonnd that a small party who had latelv passed that way had left some trees burnino-, o On the same day, while the expedition was waiting for the Indians to come and meet with them in council, some of their men went down to the Omaha creek, south of the old Charles Bliven place, now owned by James Alio way, and made a kind of drag with small willows and bark and swept the creek where it was dammed ap by beaver. They caught 318 fish, consisting of pike, bass, Hsh resembling salmon, trout, red horse, buffalo, roeklish. flatback, perch, catfish, silverfish and shrimp; here also, they found very fat muscles, and ducks and plover. 36 WAHNKk's HISTOliY OF DAKOTA OOU>-TV . The pioiieerb well remember when Omaha creel-, instead of flowing into the Misiouri, as at present, ex- tended along east of the old Katlibnn and Bliven places, and a sliort distance sonth of the latter the creek was Tnerged into a large pond or lake, caused by beaver damming the creek. This is the pond mentioned in Lewis and Clarke's diary for the 13th and 14th. On the 16tli. they again dragged this pond and got 800 fisli. On the evening of Angust 17th, one of the party who had been sent back to the Otoe nation, returned with the information that the rest were coming on with a deserter and three chiefs of that tribe, who were de- sirous of making peace with the Mahas. As the Mahas had all left their village the surrounding prairies were set on fire, which was a customary signal in those days by traders to apprise the Indians of tlieir arrival; it was also used between different tribes as an indication of any event which had previously been agreed to be an- nounced in that way, and, as soon as seen collecttd the neighboring Indians, unless it was appreher-ded to have been made by enemies. In the afternoon of the next day the party sent to Council Bluff's returned with Little Thief, Big Horse and six othei' Indian chiefs and a French interpreter. Six of them M'ere Otoes and the other two wei e M issouris. It was a hot July day and Lewis and Clarke met them iindei- the shade of five cottonwood trees then standing on what is now the Parker place. The pioneers well remember these trees, as they formed a shelter for many a camping party. In January, 1890, Parker cut down the smallest of these trees, which was ninety-eight year.s old; previous to this he had cut another which was about one hundred and twenty years old, or thirty-four years old when this famous council was held beneath its shade, and five years old when the battle of Bunker Hill was fought. Before this, however, Samuel Dear- ing cut the second largest of these trees, which had LICWIS AND OLAUKK EXPKDITtON. 37 withstood the storms ;ind battles of the elements of one hundred and thirty years; and the largest of all, wliicli wftsfive feet in diameter, fell a prey to the Old Muddy in 1876. The following account of this council is quot- ed from their journal: "We met them under a shade, and after they had finished a repast with which we had supplied them, we inquired into the origin of their war between them and the Mahas, which they related with great frankness. It seems that two of the Missouris went to the Mahas to steal horses, but were detached and killed. The Otoes and Missouris thought themselves bound to avenge their companions, and the whole nations were at last obliged to share in the dispute. Tliey are also in fear of war from the Pawnees, whose village they entered this summer, while the inhabitants were hunting, and stole their corn. This ingenuous confession did not make us the less desirous of negotiating a peace for them; bnt no Indians have as yet been attracted by our fire. The evening was closed by a dance, and the next day (August 19th) the chiefs and warriors being assem- bled at ten o'clock, we explained the speech we had already sent from Council Bluffs and renewed our ad- vice. They all replied in turn and the presents were then distributed. * * * After a more substantial pre- sentati'>n of small articles and tobacco, the council was ended with a dram to the Indians. In the evening we exhibited different objects of curiosity, and particularly the air-gun, wliich gave them great surprise. These people are almost naked, having no covering except a sort of breech-cloth around the middle, with a loose blanket or buffalo robe, painted, thrown over tiiem. The names of these warriors, besides those already men- tioned, were: Karkapaha or Crow's Head, and Neua- sawa or Black Cat, Missouris; and Sananona or Iron Eyes, Neswaunja or Big Ox, Stageaunja or Big Blue Eves, and Wasashaco or Brave Man, all Otoes. These 38 Warner's history of Dakota county. two tribes speak nearly the same language. They all begged us for whisky." The next morning, August 20th, the Indians were given a canister of whisky, when they mounted their liorses and road away. The expedition then set sail and passed two large islands on the north — one including the old Geo. Woods place, the other where McHenry's saw mill is located. While they were t)ms passing along the sub- sequent site of Dakota City, Sergeant Charles Floyd was writhing in the last throes of death, and died as they reached the high bluffs, about one mile south of the Floyd river, which was so named in honor of this brave soldier. Just before his death he said to Captain Clarke: "I am going t>» leave "vou," — liis strength failed hitn as he added, "I want you to write me a let- ter." They buried his body on the top of the high bluff, with military honors, and the grave was marked by a cedar post, on which his name and the day of his death were inscribed. The place of his burial was called Floyd's bluff. It seems that his death was caused by an attack of billions colic, brought on by eating wild honey, which the party had found either at Col. Baird's bluffs or along the bluffs east of Eomer — ©r possibly on Honey creek. They camped that night at the mouth of the Floyd. On the morning of August 21st they sailed by the site of Sioux City and at three miles from the Floyd came to the mouth of the Big Sioux, which then flowed into what is now Crystal lake, opposite South Sioux City. After passing through that lake they came to the site of old St John's, where they killed their lirst buffalo, also a deer and beaver were killed, and they saw two elk as they scampered over the hills to where Jackson now stands. Lewis and Clarke, after reaching the headwaters oi the Missouri, passed over the mountains and thence LEWIS AND CLAKKE EXPEDITION. 39 the woik, which they kept up ail wimer and tlie saw mill was put into operation April 1, 1856. They sohl lumber at |30per thousand ftet, and the fiist purchased by the settlers was used in the construction of the old Gideon Warner house, now standing on his farm in tluU. vicinity. "While the mill was iti course of construction others settled in the town. Charles Rouleaux erected the second cabin and John Bay put together a log store building, which constituted the entire village for the winter of '55 and '56, and besides the above n.ontioned settlers its ijihabitants weie: "Wm. Cheney, Benjamin Hicks, John Gallagher, Eobert Alexander and a few others, all of whom crowded into the three lonely cab- ins. In the spring of 1856 new settlers began to arrive, the town was properly laid out, AVilliani C. McBeath opened up a store, Stephen Draper i)Vought in a steam saw mill, and before fall it had grown to be considerable of a town. It flourished vintii '57 hiid '58, when it had reached the zenith of its glory. A. jjjood frame school buildina: was erected, wliich was afterwards moved dowr» just north of Thomas Smith's place where it was used as a school house for that district, and the town con- tained a population of about four hundred inhabitants. Abraham IJirsch opened up the lirst hotel in 1856 and Henry Rearn soon afterwards engaged in tlie same busi- ness. William Young also kept a boarding house. Miss Putnam, of Sioux City, taught the first school in Omadi, commencing about the middle of April, '57, which WHS also the first in the county, and Maria Par- sons and JnliaJS'ash were the next teachers. Dr. G. "W. Wilkinson taught school here in 1858 in what is now Win. Cheney's old log barn, which was moved to Dakota City by O. F. Elkliart. Among his scholars were Charley Ford, Michael Kenueily, Marcelliis. and BXTINCT TOWNS. 51 Charles Keain and Mary Beam now Mrs. W. 0. Mc- Beatli. The first newspaper, which was also the first in the county, called theOmadi Enterprise, was established hf-re in July, 1857, and was edited oy George W. Enst, afterwards editor of the Stock Jonrnal, at Chicago. The paper was sold to Griffin and Taffe, in 1858, and expired in the same year. A shingle mill was operated by Slinll & Hartnian. The first city election of which there is any record WHS held on Monday, March 22, 1858, the following officers being elected for a term of one year; M. G. Wilkinton, major; Wm. D. Sniitli, recorder; Wni. Ciienev, assessor; Wni. C. McBeath, treasurer; J. 1}, Dickey, marshal; Geo. T. "Woods. G. W. Burks and S. G. Cochran, aldermtn. At a special election held June 27, 185SI, the following officers were elected: John Taffe, mayor; Geo. "W. Williamson, recorder; A. 11. Baker, marshal; Alexander Ford, assessor; Wm, C. McBeath, treasurer, S. G Cochian, M. Kennelly, Henry Heam, E. R. Kash and Domonic Bcilinski, aldeinien. Oniadi post office was estublished in 1857 with Henry I^eam as postujaster,'succeedeJ by A. H. Bakei- and Asa Eathbun. It was then turned over to J. W. Davis, on Omaha creek, and was afterwards moved to Charles EI. Potter's place; was discontinued in 1872 and Homer post office establithed, Eev. Wm. M. Smith, a Methodist minister, held reliffious services in the Oinadi school house. About this time Wm. Ashburn came to the town and began prepai'ations for the liuilding of a large hotel. Tliofi. Asbford burned the brick, tise cellar was dug while Ashburn was busily engaged collecting a large sum of '-bonus money," which he took with him HS he fled the country, and ihe hotel scheme was a fail- ure. This was a foreiunner of mine and greater disas- ter, as the village began to decline, the treacherous Mis- souri washed away a portion of the town, and thus the 52 WAKMEll'i mSTOUY OF DAKOTA COUBTY. march ofdecay went on until .1865, when every house liad been removed, some to Dakota City and others up- on farms. Tims tliesite of a once prosperous and bnoy- ant town was turned over to the merciless ravage of a relentless river and Oinadi sleeps to-day in the broad bosoiMof the Missouri river. Logan. — Was situated on the Missouri river, now Crystal]ake,tiie Meridian-line between townships 28 and 29, forming its main street. It was surveyed in June, 1856, by Samuel F. Watts, and filed for record July 16th ot tiie same year, several additions being made to the town afterwards. Tije town grew very rapidly and soon became the rival ofOtnadi and othei- towns of the county. Among its early settlers were Horace Dutton, John Pierce, Samuel Whitehorn, Leon- ard Bates, Janies Westcott, Jesse F. Warner, Harry Lyons. W. W. Marsh, Robert Carnihan, James Ashley, G. McFall, (founder of the town), John Joyce, Charles T. Parker, D. B. Dodf^on, Caleb Leg, Win. Carnihan, John, Thomas, Daniel and Frank Virdeii and All'red EJam. Two stores were kept hy Harry Lyons and Wm. Carnihan. The Virden Bros, opened up a lai'ge Imtel (now known as the old T. L.'Grifley house at Dakota 'City, which was afterwai'ds moved there); James Ashly conducted a blacksmith shop and Dr. M. Saville was physician. Li the sumujer oi 1858 a sub.'^cription school was opened with Ottie Marsh as first teacher, and among iiei' scholars were Mrs. E. J. DeBell nee Nellie Warner, Mrs. Clark Ellis nee Mary Willis, Mrs. John McQuilken nee Alice Push, Mrs. Wm. Armour nee Jane Garnei', William Rush and James Willis. During this ytar'I.opan had rciched ^tlie height of its prospe''ity, containing at that time inoi'e than twenty- live houses, when tlie Missouri began to gnaw awav its northern portion and its inhabitants commence^d to move their houses to Dakota City ahd adjacent farms. By 1860 the town was entirely deserted,' the Virdens being the last to leave. EXTINCT TOWNS.. 53 St. Johns — Was also called St. Patkictc's colony. liicated on the Missouri river, about one mile north of Jackson, in townsiiip 29, range 8; surveyed and plotted by John J. Trecy, m Jnne, 1856, and incorporated by the county commissioners in January, 1857 On tiie second day of Jnne, 1856, a Catholic colo- ny from near Dubuque, Iowa, arrived on the town site, consisting of eighteen wagons and abimt sixty persons, some of whom remained in the village, others selecting claims in what is now St. Johns and Summit townships. This colony was under the charsje of father Jeremiah Trecy and its members were, as near as can be learned: Father Trecy's mother and father and widowed sister Mrs. Coyle, Daniel Duggan, James Kellehan, George Poi'tiss, Michael Mclvivergan, James Joue>, Michael McCoimick, Charles J5oyie, John, James , Patrick and Nicholas Ryan, William Ilogan, Simon Magen, Patrick Twohig, Arthur Short, .Fohu Trecy and Edward Jones, all l)iit the last four havincr families. Tiiomas Curren and Joseph Brannan kept the first stores. Drs. En- right and Matthews were the lirst physicians. In 1857 a steam saw mill was built; a log school house was erected and Miss Rosana Clark taught the first school, which was the second school in the county, commencing about the third week ill .\pril of that year. The year 1858 witnessed the town's palmiest days, when its pop- ulation numbered nearly two hundred. At a special town election, the first of which there is any record, held at the house of John J. T'lecy, Feb- ruary 15, 1858, the following otHcers were elected: John J. Trecy, mayor; Gerald Dillon, recorder; Cornelius O'Connor, assessor; Arthur Short, marshal; Tho'nas Cui-ren, Joliu Williamson and Duncan McDonald, al- dermen. The' ballot box used at this election is now in the possession of Mrs. Capt. C. O'Connor. The people became dissatisfied with the location of St. Johns and its gradual depopulation began, until every resident had moved away. The town i-itc was 54 warmer's history of Dakota ooumtt. vacated in accordance with a petition presented to tht- county commissioners by James A. Trecy, owner of the land, December 3, 1866, and thns St. Johns was oblit- erated from the face of the earth. Pacific City. — Was surveyed and plotted October 18, 1856, by G. W. F. Sherman, its incorporators being Alonzo Moses, Joseph Hollman and Andrew iM. Hunt, with an addition by Sanford and Martin. The town was situated about where South Sioux City is now built, in township 29, range 9, east, and was incorporated June 7, 1858, with the following trustees: H. 0. Titfey, J. F. Sanborn, D. P. Kent, Charles Kent, and Samuel A. Ayres. In 1857 it contained about ten good frame buildings, but its inhabitants becoming discon- tented with the location, all moved away, Mr. Sanford beino: the last to leave. ■ Franklin City. — Was situated in section 32 and 33, township 29, range 9, east, about two miles north of Dakota City, and incorporated June 7, 1858, with the following trustees:. Alanson Baker, Nathaniel Watts, Henry Hennitigs, John Hope and Eugene L. Wili)ur, who were appointed by the county commis- sioners. The founders of the town were Joseph T. Turner and John Feenan; the plot was tiled for i-eeord January 30. 1857. It never had the honor of contain- ing a single house, although a number of lots vvere sold to eastern parties. ]3ltburo.— Was surveyed and founded September 20, 1856, by Col. E. Ji.hn "Pleyel; situated in the ex- treme south-eastern part of the county, bordering the Indian reservation, but contained only two cabins, and was soon deserted by its proprietors, its only settlers were E. John Pleyel, John Tnl(». Uriah i^ickerson and Benjamin Trusedale. The country in this vicin- ity is still called Blyburg. Verona. — J''oiindetl by Joi^eph Kerr and W D. Roberts, was situated opposite the mouth of the Floyd river, below Covington; incorporated November 20, EXTINCT TOWNS. 55 1858, with the following trustees: Joseoh Kerr, Ellis W. Wall, W. D. Eoberts, W. Cobb and E. K Hask- ing. The town never contained any houses. Randolph. — Was a post office until 1877, and sit- uated about four miles south-west of Homer, on Wigle ereelc: so named in honor of its first mail carrier, Jasper Randolph. The post office was kept at the house of Win. L. Covell, who was its only postmaster. LoDi. — Was a post office located at Oak's mill, two miles north of Homer, and its postmasters were Sam. A. Combs, John Oak and John Bridenbaugh. In 1874 Mr. Bridenbaugh moved the office to his farm and the followinja; year it was discontinued. Emmett. — A post office situated in the northern part oi the county, was discontinued in 1873. CHAPTER VI. DAKOTA COIJNTy TOWNS. Dakota City — Covington Jackson Homee — Hub- bard — Emkkson — South Sioux Crrr — Elk Vallet — Cobuen Junction — Necoba — Goodwin. Havincr traced tlie extinct towns from their rise to O decay, tlie surviving towns and new ones will now re- ceive attention. DAKOTA CITY, County seat of Dakota county, was temporarily surveyed in 1855, and tlie followinii; year it was re-surveyed un- der tha direction of the Dakota City Company, of which Augustus Kountze.aftei"wards a wealthy banker of JS'ew York, was president. A plot of the town was tiled for record September 20, 185(5, by J. D. M. Crockwell, agent for tlie Dakota City Company, and the city was incorporated by the county CDrnmisj^ioiiers April 5, 1858 with the following limits: Kast one-half of section 8, and sections 9 and 10, township 28, range 9, east (>n the same day trustees were appointed as follows: Barna- bas Bates, Geo. A. Iliusdale, VVm. li. James, E. Wakely and John C. Tui'k. Samuel Whitehorn, W, H. S. Hughes and James W. Virtue were also selected as DAKOTA CITY. 57 judges for the first to-nn election, held on Monday, May 3, 1858, at which time the abo\e trustees were re-elect- ed, ^Yith the exception of E. "Walvely, and he was super- seded by J. D. Ivi. Croekwell. At a special election lield February 7, 1S59, wliicii was the fiist to select town oflBcei's, ihe following were elected: Barnabas Pates, nriHyor; James W. Virtue, recorder; ChfirlesF. Eddiart, assessor : J. M. Vanauken. marthal; Thomas T. Collier, treasurer; J. K. H, Patri(k, Win. H. James. John C. Turk, E. F. Mason and John B. Zeigler, aldejnien. Eakly tfE'J'ri.UdKNT. — Al.out the first slep in the founding of Dakota City was vheii J. D. M. (_ rock \\ ell applied 1o ihe "JVnitoiial I egislalure lor a feiry ivyn- chifC i:t iliat j)(iint, on tlie Missoui'i ]iver, January 31, 1855. which was granted Fd luary 9, of the Sf me year. The first 1 i lue in the ti vn vas 1 uilt l)y Efnjpuiin F. Cliaiiil eis, in March, 185fi, made of loijs, with flat dirt roof, f. round foor, one hole for a door aijd another for a window, whicli was afterwards improved and kept as a Imtel by J. D. M. Ci'ockwell. and named tl.e "Chihua- huallouse." A iiioi'g the first to arrive were: Win. II. Jaihc?, Jclin McQiiilken, Wm. Adair, Samuel Me- CarUKy, James Dickey, Joseph Hollman, W. G. Craw- foi'd, 1' . A. Eolin^on. John Naflziger, J< lin Mischlisch, Clms Eecm, E. G. Packaid and sisler Lorinda. after- wards wife <>f Jolin ^afiziger, and Geo. A. Hinsdale. John JS'Mfi'zifier opened up the first store and Hollman tfe Ci-awfoi'd I lie first law office. S^ H I— t <5 H O « <5 o a: o < a: DAKOTA CITY. ' 61 Rev. H. W. Kiihns, a missionary sent to Nebraska Territory, preac-lied the first Lutheran sermon at Dako- ta City in the front room of the Bates tlouse, in No- vember, 1858, and on the 22nd day of July, 1859 he organized a church society there. The following names were given in for ineuibersliip and were the founders of the chinch at that place: John B. Ziegler, Caroline Ziegler, Cliarles F. Eckliart, Elizabeth Eckhart, Conrad Anrihrecht, Melosine Arnibrecht and Angnstiis Ilaase. The members at once began preparations for a hoii»eof wor.-iiip. A store Imildiiig was purchased in the aban- doned town of Pacific City, hut it v,-as burned by prairie fire while being moved to Dakota City. In the spring and summer of 1860, the pi-esent Lutheran church was erected by Augustus Haase at a cost of $2,000. This was the first Lutheran church in the town, county and state, and is to-day the oldest church edifice, of any de- nomination, now standing in Nebraska. In consequence of the above facts a large photograph of this church was sent to the World's Fair, at Chicago in 18!t3. Their ministers liave been H. W. Knhns (1858), Sam- nel Aughey, J. F. Kuhlman, J. ZimmerniHn, J. C. Brodfuhrer,.!. P. Schnare, W. C. McCool, C. Baird, D. Spi'eclier and II. J. ILipernan. The territorial court was field in this church for ruauy yeai-s. The Episcopalians also have a church society here, but no edilice or resident minister. CooKT HousK.--For more than fifteen years the county records were scattered around in log cabins and rented liouses. January 2, 186U, the county commis- sioners ordered that steps be taken for the building of a court house and jail, but the project tailed for the want of sufficient funds. A special county election was held June 18, 1870, to vote on a proposition to bond the county for the erection of a $15,000 court house, 15,000 to be paid l)y Dakota City, at which time there were 170 votes for and 165 against bonds. Commis- sioners ordered bonds issued Septemlier 15, 1870. n2 waknbr's history of Dakota countt. Contract let to A. H. Baker and A. T. Haase, October 8, 1870, for the construction of said court bouse, bi'ick to be manufactured and furnished by Geo. T. Woods. October 25, 1871, court house was completed and turned over to the sheriff of said county. Post Office. — The postmasters at Dakota City have been James W. Virtue, C. F. Eckhart, Barnabas Bates, Helen Bates, M. O. Ayres, Henry Herweg, D. C.Stinson and Mell A. Schmied. This is a postal note and money order office. The post office was first kept in the Chihuahua House, then moved to a building oppo- site the Bates House on Broadway, then to a house east of the old Griffey residence, from here it was taken to C. F. Eckhart's store, then to Bates liouse, to Col. B. Bates' residence on Walnut street, to M. O. Ayres' stores on Broadway, to Stinson & Herweg's store on corner of Broadway and Fifteenth street, then to its present location on corner of Broadway and Fourteenth street. Schools. — Tlie present two-story brick school house was erected in 1866 at a cost of $4,500 and the frarne building near it, which was used as a high school was built in 1874. Prior to this time, in 1857, the first school was taught by Mi's L. C. Packard in the old log court house on the corner of Broadway and Nineteenth street. In 1892 bonds of 14.000 were voted and in the fall of that year an elegant frame two stoi-y building was completed. Societies, — Among the first societies of Dakota City was tJie Sons of Malta, of w-liich Col. B. Bates was the principal factor, and he relates many amusing incidents of the doings of that organization. See bio- graphical sketch of his life elsewhere in this book. Omadi lodge No. 5, A. F. & A. M., was chartered June 2, 1858, with eight members, the principal officers being: Mahlon G. Wilkinson, W M.; E. G. Lampson, S. W.; A. W. Puett, J. W. The lod^e was moved from Omadi to Dakota City in 1862, which is located in the DAKOTA CITY. 63 upper story of the brick scliool house. Tlie Dfikota City Literary Society, was organized November 30, 1867. J. F Warner was chosen as pres- ident and II. H. Brown secretary. Among its first members were: Mrs. Lizzie Aughey, Wni. H. James, Thos. Griffey, C. D. Alartin, S. P. Mikesell, B. Bates, Mrs. II. M . Bates, J. G. Oguen, ]\Irs. E. J. Ogden, J. A. Mikesell. H. H. Buckwalter, M. M. Eeani, A. G. Lampson, Helen E. Bates, Rev. Samuel Aughej, Mrs. A. J. Bradbrary, Mary Beam, John Oesterling, R. H. Brown, J. F. Warner, Lucy Wartin, Cluis. S. Ford, C. Calvin Martin, H. li. Wilson. Henry Beam, Wm. Adair. C. F. Eckliart. James Willis, Kellcy W. Fruzer, Mrs. Hettie L. Frazer, D. W. Dodson, Mrs. Mary E. Dodson, Jacob B. Wertz, B. F. Chambers, Amelia Oesterling. Mary E.George, Mrs. A.J. Willis, Emma VVhitehorn, Ella JNeveile. Emma Willis, Ellen Me- Cready, Ella Keel, Anna B. Wertz, Nellie Warner, Dr. ]M, Pinkerton, John B. Barker, W. W. Grant, Mary Evans. E. D. Ayies, Manly Wright, James Stott,Thom- as J. Skidmore, Charles F. Bay ha, B. F. Whitten, A. P. WiltToski, Alice Warner, Horatio Biaunt, B. Brown, Giis A. Frazer, Cyi'us Way, Etta Alershcm, Leander R. Eckhart, Heniy A. Bartarff, Lla James, John Davis, Saiah Goodhue, Wm. Willis, C. T. Seeley, Ida Woods, W. II. Ciolty, Lizzv Adair. Anna E. Frazer, A. IL Baker, G. W.Wilkinson, Fannie Ream, Lnella Ilirsch, Dora Baker, D. F. Urmy, Ida Eckhart, and Geo. W. Oberhcltzer. 'J lie Dakota City I. O. O. F. lodge. No. 48, iield itsh'rst meeting in the town An;zu>t5, 1874. and elected The following otticers: J. P. Eckhart. M. G; John ]\Iitcii€il, V.G.: James Stott, sccietary; Luther Har- den. trea.=nrer. The society owns the second story of the brick liuikling on the north-west c-orri*?r of Bioad- way anfi fonrlecnth streets. Kelly W. Frazer was president of the first temper- atK-e meeting ever oi-.i^anized iu the county, in the 64 waenee's histoky of dakota county. Dakota City Lutheran clmrch, Jaimary 7, 1871, wliicli has since raf-rged into the Ked iiibbon. Good Templars and other societies. The G. A. li. Crittenden Post, JSTo. 170, was or- ganized ill 18S3, and was re-organized later and called McBeath Post, in honor of W. C. McBeath. The charter was surrendered in 1892. The Dakota County Teacliei's' association was or- ganized November 28,1875, at the high school build- ing in Dakota City, with Jolin T. Kfiencer chairman and Rev. J. Ziminerinan secretary. Prior to this, hdw- ever, on Septeml)er 5, 1870, the Teachers' Institute of Dakota County was organized at the same place. The Dakota County Bible society was organized April 28, 1869, by Rev. Wm. McCandish, General A gent foi- the American Bible society of JS'ew York. The following woi'e its hrst othcers: Rev. Samuel Anghey, president; P. Mikesell, vice president; Mi's. JohnG. Ogden, corresponding secretai'y; John P Bavha^ tj-easurer. This society is not a thing of the past but still lives. The Dakota Citv Improvement company com- menced business on the 25th day of Octobei-, 1880; its principal ao;itatoi's l)eing Isaac Powers, jr . G. \V \Vil- kinson, George T. Woods, C. P Ileatli, VVm. Adair, T. L. Grilfev, Sumner Whittier, A. H. Baker, A. T. Ilaase, D. C. Di'bble, John R. Sprague, Pins Netf, J. O. i-ish- er, H. W. Wood niid Joseph Ilollmnn. The oliject of the fissociation vvnsto ;idvanoe the uiHtei'ial interests of Dakota City. After doing considerable l)usine?s the company wms dissolved. Ci-ystal Degree f.odge No. 53, Danohters of Re- bekah, was chartered Septenibei' 29, I89l>. and the fid- lo\>-iiin: were the first otticers elected; Mrs. Delia Bi'y- ant, N. D.; Mrs, Ella Hi'yant, V. (4 ; Mi's. Kn'ie Nord\kR, soci'etaiy; Mrs. Klizabetli Schi'iever, treas- M i-er. Dakota Chapter Order of file Eastern Star w;,s iu- DAKOTA CITY. 65 stituted by Mrs. Ada S. Billings, state organizer, on October 19, 1892, with the following as principal offi- cers: Mrs. Martha F. Adair, "W. M.; R. E. Evans, W. P.; Mrs. Martha J. Combs, A. il.; Mollie Baker, secre- tary; M)'s. Anna M. Evans, treasin-er. Land Offick. — The land oflfice wrs established in Dakota City in March, 1857, and closed at 4 o'clock p. m., Ai!\ 1882 M. W. Bruce 1884 Sanfoi'd PMiker. . . . 1883 Frank Welna 1887 A. H. Cbarde 1887 .lohn K Markley.. 1887 A. ij. Towle 1890 P>. S. Gilloi-pie. . . . 1889 VV. I). Matthews.. 1893 PR ESS OF D AKOTA CITY, nAKOTA CUTV nKTlAI.n. This was the first paper ever established in the town, and the sfoond in the county. The first issue was published July 15. 1857, by Joseph B. Strickland, and edited by Pvobert A. IlouMrd. Fnun this i^sne is quoted the following extract in describing the 4th of 66 waenee's history of Dakota county. July celebration at Logan: *'A meeting was held in a large u^noceup^ed room fitted up for the oo- casion. Upon mution of Dr. M. Savillo, of Logan. Gen. Jos. Ilollman wii« called to the chair. He made a few pelFtinent remarks, stating the object of the meeting and the propriety of the peoplethus uniting together, hijingasideall jenlousics to rejoice in a common privilege. He concluded by introducing to theiiudience Mr. J. F. Warner, of Lngan, who rend in an eloquent manner the Deciiiration of Independence. The orator of the day, W. G. Crawford, Esq., of Dakota City, Wiis then pi evented by the president." Tlie advertisers in tlie same issue were: H. D. Johnson, stage line between Dakota City and Oinaba; Joliii JS'atfziger, general store, corner of Broadway and 13tb streets; Cliarles Keoni, joiner and carpenter; Geo. A. Hinsdale, land agent; R. A. Howard, attorney; Holhnan & Crawford, attorneys; J. I). M. Crockwell, proprietor of Cliiiumhua House; Dr. M. (Saviije, physi- cian at Logan . One cohiinn is devoted to tlie proceedings of a Deiriocratic Mass Convention, of which Win. H. James was president, held at St. Johns on tlie lltli of July, 1857. A committee consisting of Hurlon Haii'd, of the Bluffs, Daniel DiiggMn,of Elk Creek, Haugliey, of Cov- ington, Gen. Ilollman. of Dakota City, Joseph Bran- nan, of St. Johns, D. T. J^rainble, of Adway Creek, Dr. M. Saville, of i,og:iii, Jhiiics Farrell, of Franklin City, and C. llowanl, of Pacific City, was appointed to nominate county officers but after further consideration the convention adjourned to meet at the same place on the 18th of -Inly. The Herald was afterwards sold to Diley& P'oley and published afxnit one year, when it was discimtin- ned. It was agM in revived in Maicli, 1859. liy Daniel JVJcLauglilin and appears to have lieen discontinued for a while wIicm that gentleman resumed its pmhlicatioii March 30, 18(31, under the name of the nAKOTA eiTV DKJIOCRAT, and from the issue of that date is taken the fnllowincr: O '■•Oxx Weilntailiij morning In.t. iit an «arly liour,the pott(ry ut ZiegU^rA DAKOTA CITY. 67 EcUhart, of this place, was found in Hpbes. Makrikd. — In Sioux Cit.T,Iovvii, on the 18th inst.., by Rev, Mr. Hoyt, Mr. James E. Booge to Miss Anna M. Hubbell, all of thatplace," The issue of April 6th, 1861, contains the follow ing marriage notices: "On Monday, the 1st inst., by Rev. Father Dillon, at St. Johns, Mr. Thomas Ashford to Margaret Duggan, all of this eountj'. OnTbursday, the 4th in-t., by Rev. Mr. Brown, Mr, William Bouton^ of this county to Mi-s Rose Bales, of Wor)dbury, Iowa." In the same issue are the fi)llowing items: "The frame work on the new pottery was reaiy to erect on Wednesday morning. Dr. Geo- B. Graff had the humanity to present this ofiice with a jug of old Jamiiiua rum this week. May the Dr. live a thousand years and the Democrat live to chronicle his demise. Edwiinl Moran, Esq., of St. John», left here on Friday last for Denver City with a load of butter, eggs and lard. On Tuesday night Harlon Baird, Esq., [diiced four traps on the edge of the hike and on the following morning found -ecurely fastened in them three large beavers and one mink." Asbury Griffin bought tlie Democrat and ehanned its name to tiie SKBRASKA NOItTH, the fir-t issue making its appearance July J51, 1862i, from wliich is copied tlie following: "During the present eonfliot fur the preservation of the Government, we will be indi'pendcnt as to iiartv issues, for this is not the time lor patri^its to wrangle about pirty, while Cwnsdiulional Liberty is l)ciiig assailed by traitors. Let us fiijlit •'uulil the last armed foe exjiires/ and when peace once more risuuns Imr sway and [h* country enrerges from the vortex of war, partiiscan tiicn eotei- the arena ati-d pour lorth their wrath in floods of spleen. Our tiotterv is now in lull blasi. A large shipmeiit oi' sloaeware was made on thed wn^vardtrip ol ihe Florence. Eli;ribh; loteiii to.vn are 'apid y ii.-iii,'i« valu«. Our regist-er. Mr. Van Reuth, has H-ttcd up a Ti«atofiBeo on the eorner of Broadway anil iith >Irict.-," In the issue of August 7tli, 18'62, appears the foU lowing: -•.Measures ar« l>eiisg tak«n to build a very neat briek school house with- an our town limits. AiJtIii-ny J. Myers makes a ^oiifl artiele of lime. Xt ajipiarji jluJ, Caiiadiaji Cl.ub wheat is itlie Jsest Adapted to thei-oij 68 waener's niSTOKY ov uakota county. about Covington. "Wm. Leach hns just har/ested thirty bushel;; to the ncre. Chas. Goodfellow, of St. John*.«, has, wo leaj-n, the best crop of Rio G-rande wheat in his vicinity. It will average a little over thinly busbies to the acre." Airiong tlie advertirers in tliis issue arc: Henry Eeani, proprietor of llie £a.tep House; C. F. Eci'elii'asl\'c a succe^irful journey throuirh life, wo now Iny flsiile our cdiioriiil irt:inlie; how .'^oon we in:iy put it on ngiiin, if e 7er, we can- not any, tlie futuie iili'ne will rictennine.'" THE NORTH NEBRASKA KAGLE began its publication at Dakotn City, May 24, 1876, with Atlee Hart and Will S. .lay. as editors, and the following iippesired in its salutatory; "Politically, while reoii-vin r the ri^lit ro iNproBs indenenilcnt opinions upon tile po'ify of liny nduiiiiii-inuinn, or upon the conr^Je of iiny i)!nly or ils Iciuleiv, Tile B igle will be devute.l lo a Uiscriujiniitingsuipon of theDein- ocnitio niirtv." On Octobei- 4, 1870, Will S. Jay sold his interest in the paper to Dr. E; J. DeHell; DeBell selling to C. D.Martin October 80, 1877. Col. Martin coininenced the publication of a loinantic continued story August 24th of that year, entitled, ■■The (Conflict — Love or Money." The Eagle was enlarged t:> an eight-column folio paper .March's, 1878. March ISrh of the same year iMcs.-rs. Ilart & Martin boiigljt the Mail, whicli w;is coiiMilidated witii The Kagle. C. I). Martin sold liis interest to Geo. T. Woods May 2, 1879, \\h<>, after one ii■.-ue^ol(l to Will S. Jay. duly 15, 1881, Jay ^old his half to Hart, who liecame sole inviier of the paper. On May 20, 1880. 'I'he E;i<.de was enlarged to a six- coliimn quarto. On the 7tl) day sold back to 70 WAKNEli'3 HISTORY OF DAKO'l A COUN-l'V. Hart May 15, 1884, this date being the commeime- nient 01 tlie ninth volume. On Mtnch 26, 1885, The Eagle assumed an entire change in typographical ap- pear.'ince, putting oti an entire new dress and on March 24, 1887, another improvement was made by the pro- prietors putting in a nev,- power cylinder press, the only one in the county. Mell A. Schmied bought one-half interest in The Eagle January ], 1889, and the papei' is now owned by IJart & Schmied, the senior editor renmining with the institution since its establish- ment. May 15, 18!lO, it was ngaii; enlarged to a seven- column quarto, which makes it one of the lai'gest coun- ti'y weekly newspapers published in Nebraska. THE NORTH NEBRASKA ARGUS. was the next y aper established at Dakota City, May 7, 1880, by C. D. Martin and J. B. Goshorii, the latter selling his intei-est to tlie i'tiruiei' in September follow- ing. January 1, 1887, Will (!. Dibble bought one-half interest in the Argus, selling back to Martin Januai'y 1, 1888. Tlie piiper was suld to Eugene P>. Wilbur September 28, 1888. wlio, in liis salutatory says: ■''While The Arj;us will efM-rvi'stly !iilvooit& the prirxnpleri of (lemOGracy, its publisher will ticvcite ew|i«eoiuI pnins to rojikinir ii n home newsnnpor.'' Harry A. McCormick leased the ptiper froiti May 3, 1889, until January. 1891 when its uwner took charge ofthe paper, and moved it to South Sioi>x City, JNoveni- ber 9. 1891. In December, 1889, Will S. Jay moved some material to tliis place from South Sioux City and started TIIK SUN, but after a few short weeks it snceumbed to the Inevit- able. Dakota City in 1893 — Population seven hundi'ed. Two general stores conducted by W. P. KatbburM & Co. and D. C. Stiuson; one grocrry store, E. A. Rol)iu- son proprietor; two drug stores, K.J. Ravniond and D. C. Stinsoii; one hardware store,. Fred Sehri«ver . Dod- son were appointed trustees. Early Settlement. — Gustave Pecaut was the first settler in Covington, who built a log cabin there in 1354, which is gaid to have been the earliest in that vicinity. During tlie winter of '55 and '56, Horace Dntton and others wintered here and hauled wood to Sioux Citv. COVIKGTON. 73 Among the settlers of '55 to '59 were G. Peoaut, Thomas L. Griffey, J. Ludwig, James Kelehan, G. Hat- teiibacb. Wm. Rapp, W, W. Culver, J. M. White, J. T. Copelau, John Feenan, James Farrell, D. Caughlin, i'fn drew Johns, J.Gillett, Charley Higgins, Charles Collins, R. Wilbur, George Griffey, Enos Whinnery, Henry Chapman, Thomas McOoneliey, William Cope- Ian, J. Brown, J. Pearson, John lieoman, J. McCarty, William Smith, William Leach, William Brown, James Seaton, William Senton, A.. Baker, H. August, John Stranney and James McKenna; and in the vicin- ity of Covington resided James Stott, C. D. Martin, J. Fitzpatrick, R. R. Kirkpatriek, D. JSf. Pinkerton, Eugene L. Wilbur and William Frazier. In 1856 William Rapp opened up the first hotel, the '-Rapp Tavern,'' and John Virden brought a saw mill from Sioux City in July, In November of the same year C. D. Martin started a shingle mill on hib pre-emption south-west of Covington. John Feeuan operated the first ferry boat and In the .fall of 1858 R. R. Kirkpatriek built a steam mill for grinding corn. The first child born in- the town was John Quinn, in 1857; first marriage, John F'eenan to Mar- garet Boyle; and first death was of an old man found dead near the river. The first school was taught in 1857 by Mary Pinkerton, in a little old log school house situated near the site of the present school build- ing, which is still standing, although previous to this time M)-s. Charles Kent had tanght school in Pacific City. Religion. — The first sermon ever delivered in Cov- ington was by Rev. Thomas M. Chestnut, a Presbyter- ian clergyman of Sioux City, who preached here each alternate Sunday in the old school house which is yet standingnorthof the present school building. Rev. C. D. Martin als-o expounded Presbyterian doctrines to the early settlers. The first and only church edifice erected in the 74 waener's history of uakota coukty. town was built in 1871, Rev. S. P. Voiidoozer being; the first minister to occupy its pulpit, although Rev. Dor- sey aud others had previously conducted services in the school house. ^ History of the Ferry. — In 1855 Jolin Fennaii launched a rude looking flat boat upon the Missouri river and carried passengers between Sioux City and Covington. This'was the first ferry of any kind to ply between these points. He took Harry Huddleson in as a partner in 1856. In 1857 Charles Howard and L. Robinson began operating the steamer "Robert Burns" as a ferry and continued to run ihe boat until 1864, when it sunk in the Misfconri river. Charles Howard and E. L. "Wilbur then run a flat boat until April 22, 1866, when James A. Sawyers and William Leach were granted a charter for six years. Williiin» Leach conducted tlie flat boat two years and Sawyers then managed the ferry himself, until April 10, 1873, when the franchise was granted to C. E. Hedges and James A. Sawyers for a period ofsixyeai's. The steam- er "Undine," was then brought into service and there is not an old settler 'in Dakota county who does not re- member the "Undine" and especially the $2.00 a trip he had to pay to cross the ri»'er on her. April 1, 1879, Grant Alarsh & Torinus were granted the ferry fran- chise for ten years from date. They began running the "Andrew S. Bennett," with C. Larson as captain. The next change in boats was April 17. 1878, when the "Dr. Burleigh" steamed across the river to Covington. On the 23rd of July 18S8, the county commissioners granted the franchise to Ebenezer Ayres and Wm. Lu- ther until April 1, 1891. The "Andrew S. Bennett" with Wm. Luther as Captain, continued to be used as means of transportation. The "Maxy E. Bennett" was used as a passenger ferry and pleasure boat in 1888. In 1892 the franchise having been granted to Selzer Bros., of Sioux City, Iowa, for a period of ten years, the Sioux City & Covington Ferry Company was organ- COVINGTON. 75 ized, composed of JNick Malier, John N. Peysen, James P. Twohig and Selzer Bros., who brought the '-Vint Stillings" lip from St. Louis and operated it for several weeks, but it soon ceased to be a paying investment and the boat was tied up. In 1889 John M. Moan and others built a pontoon bridge across the river, which was opened for travel with a great celebration May 18th of that year. Six hundred teams crossed the bridge and ten thousand people witnessed the ceremonies. It cost about |20,000. Capt. TVm. Lnther had charge of the bridge until 1892 when t])e structure was sold to the Pontoon bridge company with Capt. Dick Talbot as manager, un- der whose supervision it now is. The rates for cross- ing are: Team and driver, with members of family, each way, 25 cents: foot passengers, each way, 5 cents. In 1890 thegeneral government was asked to nro- tect the river bank at this place, but no action being taken in the matter, the Pacific Short line Bridge Com- pany undertook the work as a protection to its pro- posed new combination wagon and railroad bridge, from Prospect Hill on the Iowa side of the river to Coving- ton on the Nebraska side. This protection to the banks was made of willo^v matresses, interwoven with steel wire and fastened to iron places which were forced into the bank ten feet. At present extensive preparations are being made by the railroad companies to protect the banks from the Short Line Bridge down to the bridge of tlie Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha road. Thousands of dollars have been expended to protect the Iowa shore along the town site of Sioux City, until to-day the banks are safe from the inroads of the Mis- souri river. As land increases in value and expensive bridges and buildings are endangered by the ever shifting cur- rent of the Missouri, greater efforts will be put forth to protect the shore. 76 WAENEk's HISTOET of DAKOTA COUNTY. The following are the dates of freezing: and break- ing up of ice in the Missouri river at this point since the settlement of the county: CLOSED. OPENED. December 24 1 855 December 9 1856 December 23, 1S57 November 25, 1858 December 15, 1859 December 11, 186U December 11 1861 November 21, 1862 November 19 1863 December 10 1864 Decembers 1865 December 10 1866 December 18, 1867 December 9, 1868 December 84, 1869 December 21, 1870 November 26 1871 November 28 1872 Decembers 1873 November 28 1874 November 22, 1875 November 30, 1876 November 29 1877 December 18 1878 December 11, 1879 November 19 1880 December 18 1881 Decembers 1882 December 19, 1883 December 18 1884 December 7 1885 December 5 1886 November 27, 1887 * . ; 1888 December 31 1889 December 30 1890 November 25 1891 December 19 1892 March 26, 1856 March 27, 1867 March 8 1858 March 20 1859 February 27 J 860 March 13 1861 March 18 1862 March 1 1863 February 23 1884 February 20 1865 February 28 1866 April 2 1867 February 23, 1868 February 28 1869 February 15 1870 February 22 1871 February 24, 1872 March 3 1873 March 16 1874 Majch 25 1875 April 3,. 1876 February 16 1877 January 19 1878 March 6, 1879 January 11, 1880 March 24, 1881 February 11, 1882 March 4 1883 March 15, 1884 Marcli9 1885 March 17 1886 March 9 1887 March 17 1888 * 1889 March 20 1890 March 31 1891 Inarch 5 1893 March 11 1893 *Did not freeze over during the winter of If COVINGTON. 77 The Press. — The Covington News was the first newspaper established in this town by B. L. North- rop, in 1870, who sold one-half interest to Erwin Wood, and the following year Wood bought the entire outfit, which expired the same year. In 1 77, I.N. Taylor established the Covington Jonrnal which did not live to celebrate the anniversary of its first birthday, expiring November 10, 1877. John T. Spencer conducted the Dakota County Mail in Covington from December 21, 1877 to March 1, 1878, when it was moved lo Dakota City and con- solidated with The Ea^le. The Covington Courier, a branch of the South Sioux City Sun, made its first appearance September 1, 1888. It was run in the interest of the liquor element, but soon afterwards ceased publication. After a four weeks demise .1. L. Donliamtook hold of it and endeavored to do something, but failing in his efforts the paper was forced to give up. The Clipper, another Covington enterprise, made its first appearance August 10, 1889, with Fred P. Herbert at the helm. Four long weary weeks through the heat was all that it could endure. Post Office. — ^A post office was established in the town in 1857 and its postmasters have been: Charles D. Martin, James Ogg, John Cavanaugh, William- Cobb, John Kiley, Henry Powers, J. V. Mellette, C. Yordy, Mrs, E. L. Osiiian, R. L. Grosvenor and John A. Williams, the last named holding the office when it was discontinued January 1, 1890. Covington in 1893. — Owing to the ravage of the turbulent Missouri, about one-half of the town site of Covington has been wasted away by that stream and each year shows further marked inroads of the current. Upon the passing of the prohibitory law in Iowa in 1888, the "bum" element of Sioux City was driven across the river and they established themselves in this, heretofore quiet burg, and at one time the town con- 78 waenek's history of dakota county. tained upwards of fifty saloons and nearly as many bawdy houses and gambling dens. At present there is in the town one large two-story school house one of the finest in north-eastern Nebras- ka, costing $10,000, being erected in 1890. F. D. Fales is principal, and Miss Fern Stamin primary teacher. There are two general stores, JSfick Maher and C, D. Shreve proprietors; one blacksmith shop, A. L. Saltsgiver; one livery barn, B. F. Sawyer; one lawyer, John A. Williams; two real estate oflices. J. H. Burke and C. Erwin; two hotels — Hotel McHenry, William York, landlord, and the Cosmopolitan, J.J. Truax, landlord; one laundry, WaLee; one butcher-shop, C. D. Shreve; eleven saloons, J. K. Judson, Selzer Bros., Hittle & Weir, flittle & Coffell, G. G. Castler, Marshall Luther, Mandersheid & Loup, T. A. Provost, Plugh McGofiin, W. J. McGofEn and James Sprey. In 1893, Covington and South Sioux City were consolidated un- der the name of the latter town, and henceforth Cov- ington will be known only in the history of the past. Its last trustees were: JN'ick Maher — Chairman. N.J. McGoffin, H. A. McCorraick, John A. Williams and Marshall Luther. JACKSON. This town was laid out by Barrett and McCormick, and is situated on Elk creek, where that stream emerges from the bluflf land, nine miles west of Dakota City, and was at first called Franklin, but as there was another post office in the state by that name, the county com- missioners in session January 2, 1865, incorporated tiie town under the name of Jackson. The petitioners were Gerald Dillon, John Dillon, James Maloney, Michael Keimelly and Thomas Barrett, who wore appointed trustees. On the 4th of April, 1871, the commissioners extended the boundary lines and appointed Gerald Dil- lon, Martin Barrett, Michael McCormick, Jason Pass- more and Joseph Brannan trustees. JACKSON. 79 Thomas Sallis^an afterwards laid out an addition south of the C. E. Hedges addition. Soon after the founding of Jackson, the residents deserted old St. Johns and moved to the new town. Early Settlement. — Gerald Dillon erected the first frame house in 1860 and Thomas Barrett and Josepli Brannan kept the first two stores, John Mc- Ginn built the first brick house, Michael Kennelly op- erated the first blacksmitli shop, Clark & Preston built a grist mill. Father Dillon delivered the first sermon, a f^chool house was built and Gerald Dillon taught the first school — all in 1860. Religious PfiospEErrY. — The first pastor, Father Trecy, spared no pains to promote the happiness of his people. His foresight and enterprise gave renewed courage to them to press onward to success. In 1860 he withdrew from his charge — the founder of this settlement and of the others that have sprung frou) it, for mott of the old settlers at Hubbard, Brady's Cross- ino; and all around had their homes first at Jackson or at St. Johns — and well may he be called the great bene- factor. Several priests succeeded Father Trecy in the years that have since elapsed. Among those who are now living and will be remembered by many of the old- er citizens were Revs. Father Ryan, Father Kelley and Father Lawless. Up to 1887 the people bad a very unassuming building for a church. Father Lawless who took charge of Jackson and surrounding country in 1887, was en- abled by the good will and generosity of the people, to build the present fine brick church in 1879 and 1880. The building is 36 feet wide by 100 feet long. The cost was between five and six thousand dollars. In 1881 a large brick parsonage was built, which owing to defective foundations and poor material be- came unsafe and had to be taken down in 1892. In the fall (if 1891 a priest's house (frame) was commenced on the west side of the church, which was finished in. 80 Warner's history of Dakota county. ilarch, 1892, at a cost of nearly f 3,000. Father Lawless left Jacl located npon the praij'ie hills here and founded the town oT Emerson were Willian) Warnock, P H. Boyle, H. S. Boyle. Patrick Bannan, W S Lippohi, John Kngelen, M, Pniden. M. L. Rossi ter. J. J. McCarthy, U- W. Pai'Mielee, R. H, Knhn, C A, Johnson and -Nelson Feauto. Newspapers. — The Echo was the lirst newspHper venture in this town, established in the spring of 1883, liy Nelson Feauto, who was sncceeded by Joshua Leon- ard, July 21, 1885. Mr. Leonard changed the name of the paper to the Emerson Era nnd conducted it until 1892 when the paper expired. In a few weeks there- after Harry S. Swenson and Chas. S. Packai-d started tlie Emerst)n Enterprise, and the paper was sold to Fr;i.nk Baticroft, who in Decembei', of tlie same year soi.fl to II. W, Conley, he selling to S. E. Cobb, June 2, 1893. The Emerson Times was established W;u-f!h 25, 1893, with A. L. Moore .as editoi-, but two weeks of joui-nalistic life was enough for him and the paper -was sold to Z. M. Baird, April 8, who is its pi'esent editor, Chur(;hes and SrnooLS. — There are three good church buildings in the town, the Presbyterian, Albert '\ston, pastor; St. Paul Lutheran, Eniile Asbrans, pas- tor; Catholic, J. Barry, pastor. The Presbyterians and (^atholics also have built parsonages for tbeii' pa.'-toj's. In 1885 the school district was l)on. 'V T \ r ' ■/ ■ '; ■ ■',' \ ." The Covington and South Sioux City ,,Stkbet R. R.Co. was organized ajid road built in 1887, tl)e incorpo- rators being E.C. Palmer, J. M,. Moan,. Krauk Hunt, C. D. Smiley, E. B. "Wilbur, Atlee Hart and Judge T.' L.Griffey. T^he firsjt officei's were E. B. Wilbur, presi- dent; J. M: Moan, vice president; Frank Hunt, secre- tary; CD. Smiley, treasurer. In Juh', 1889 the South Sioux City Electric Motor Street R.H. Co. -was organized, the old Company being absorbed in the new one. The present officers are C. D. Smiley,, president; E. C. Palmer, secretary; Frank Hunt, treasurer.- The line will be extended to Crystal Lake on the completion of the Short Line combination bridge across tlie Mis- souri river, Societies.-— An Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge was organized here in July, 1890. The next secret society organized here was theGrand Army of the Republic, Banner Post, No. 308. August 16, 1890, with the following charter members; Samuel B. Funk, Llenry C. Phillips, Daniel Martin, James W. Heath, John N. Conkling, Clymer Shadinger, Jolni W Gibson, William McDonald, William E. Everett, James H. Bliven, William E. Shane, William H, George, James H. Loomis, John M Church, Isaac J. A mnier- man, Andrew Christensen and James M. Woodcock. Following are the officers for 1893: S. R. Cowles, com- mander; James H. Bliven, senior vice commandei-; John McConehey, junior vice commander; William E. Shane, officer of the day; 0. Erwin, quartermaster; M. B. Slo- cum, adjutant; AV H. Georoe, officer of guard. SOUTH SIOUX CITY. 95 The Ancient Order of LTnitedWorkinen organized a Lodge January 27, 1S91. Modern Woodmen organized February 18, 1891. The Knights of Labor organized July 30, 1891. An Independent Order of Good Templars Lodge was organized July 26,1892. South Siodx City in 1893. — There are two general stores, C. D. Smiley and Louis Jeep; one drug store, L. Krygeritwo hardware stores, J. L. Kloster and O. J. Valentine; one lumberyard for distributing' lumber to various towns in northern Nebraska, Edwards & Bradford; one variety store, T. A. Teter; four grocery stores, li. Lindsay, B. H. Lampson, A. Steel and J. Van de Zedde; one bakery, J. Van de Zedde; two butcher shops, A. Steel and C. 0. Scott; one bank. Citi- zens State, "W. H. Ryan, president — J. P. Twohig, cashier — O. W. March assistant cashier; two hotels, Merchants, Mrs. William Luther — Hotel Heath, J. W. Heath; one shoemaker, Patrick McCabe; one millinery store, Mrs. H. Everett; two barber shops, William Gramanz and H. W. Everett; one billiard hall, Geo. E. Bidwell; two saloons, Schumacker & Mappes and J. N. Peysen; one livery barn, B. F. Sawyer; four draymen, B. Stoffell, H. C. Vegan, A. Lufkin and W. J. Jones; one phototrraph gallery. King Brothers; two architects, F. B. Funk and J'din Jenkins; eight carpenters, A. H. Bliven, F. S. Everett, J. B, Earlywine, iS[. Comneau, <,)scar Stamm, Eiias Stamm, Frank Ackerman and W. E. Blair; five painters, William McDonald, W. L. Mc- Donald, Isaac Fouts, James Loomis and Fred Martin; two paper hangers, Fied Martin and Isaac Fouts; one w.'ii^on shop, S. B. Hoover; one blacksmith shop, A. A. iSunde; four masons and plasterers, D.J. Savidge, Philip Reiss, William Shane and Lewis Anderson; six lawyers, R. B. Daley, T. J. King. M. B. Slocum, J. Fowler, J. F. Twohig and E. B. VVilbur; two physicians, R. G. Hamilton and A.O.Allen; one school. Prof J. G. Haupt, principal, with Lelah Kryger, Mattie Daley and Edith 96 warnek's bistort of iukota couxtt. Phillips as teachers ; two newspapers, Argns, with E. B. Wilbur as editor, and the Democrat, edited by H. A. McCormick, two station apjents, E. E. Carder for C. St. P., M. & O. company, and Frank McCuniber for the Short Line; one opera house, Levi Smith' proprietor; feed and grain, H. C. Vegan; one brick yard, Peter Meisch; one harness shop, E. B. Wilbur; seven notaries public, J. P. Twohig, R. B. Daley, J. P. Meredith, Win. S. White, T. J. King, M. B. 'Slocum and E. B. Wilbur; one flouring mill, erected in 1893, 100 bbls. capacity, W. M. Shook and J, H. Rank proprietors; H. O. Dorn, grain and stock buyer and auctioneer; B. F. Sawyer, buss and hack line. Stanton Addition.— In 1856 Marion Pinkertou and John Fitzpatrick entered a tract of land east of tiie town site of Covington. E. L. Wilbur puroh .sed the Fitzpatrick portion and sold it to E. D. Stanton in 1864, the latter laying out the town of Stanton here, in 1870. The town never made any progress until 1889, when the pontoon bridge was built across the river witli the Nebraska terminus at the foot of Blood- good street. That year it grew very rapidly and built up with a lai^e number of saloons, gambling houses, etc., which were afterwards burned to tho ground, (see chapter on fires.) When South Sioux City was estab- lished Stanton was incorporated in that town. Consolidation. — On the ith, of April, 1893, a rote was taken on the matter of consolidating South Sioux City and Covington which resulted as follows: Vote of South Sioux City — for consolidation, 83; against, 12. Vote of Covinjfion — for consolidation, 50; against, 15.. The consolidation was accepted by the Bonrd of super- \iRors and certified to bv the county clerk, to date from May Ist, 1893. ELK VALLEY- This is a post office located between the two branches of the railroad, about five miles west, oi Hub- GOODWIN, NECOKA. AND COBURN JUNCTION. 97 hard and eight miles north of Emerson. Its postmas- ters have been: John G. Hibbs. James L. Mitchell, Monroe Minter and James Knox. COBURN JUNCTION Is situated about five miles due west of Dakota City, CD the C, St. P , M. & O. railroad, at the junction of the Ponca branch. There is neither a settlement nor post office at this point. NECORA, Which was formerly called Simon's Biding, is located seven miles south-west of Hubbard on the main line of the C, St. P., M. & O. railroad, and a post office was established there in 1S92 with Henry Danker as post- master. fiOODlWIN Is located on the Pacific Short Line, about ten miles eonth-west of Jackson, and was established in 1892 by John C. Duggan, who conducts the only general store and is postmaster. SIOUX CITY, IOWA. m B^^ m s m ^^^^^ "** ■ Ij^ i^i^»» y ^^^ m m M M SOUTH SIOVX CITY, NUBBASKA. CHAPTER VII. Products AND Improvements. The first wheat raised in the county was in 1856. A. H. Baker sowed one acre of this grain on weed land, east of his present farm and sooth of where D. C. Dib- ble now lives, in section 30. He did not thresh it, but it was estimated to have yielrled twenty bnsliels, which constituted the entire wheat crop of Dakota county for that year. What a contrast to the crop of 1874, witli 113,150 bushels, threshed by D. Y. HJleman, Henry Shu II, Theodore Haase, Dutton Lane, James Mitchell. Asa Rathbun, Jos. A. Jackson and S. Gruetzer. In 1892 Dakota county contained: 3,910 liorses, valued at $62,787; 18,644 cattle, valued at $56,494; 339 mules, valued at $6,285; 59 sheep, valued at |34; 11,331 hogs, valued at $13,387; 1,144 carriages and wagons, valued at $5,796; and railroad property valued at $288,525. These are the taxable values which are Due-tliird the actual values. hi sessed ere are the "as- total valua- tions" that ( being 1855.". 185'i. 1865 of the county, f 1855 and '56 estimated: ... $ 2,000.00 lO.OOO.OO 280 046 00 1867.. 1868... 1869.. 1870.. 1871. . . . . . ; 330.683.00 380.917.00 393.445.00 610.730.00 653.384.00 1873... 1873. . 734,163.00 7^:1.180.00 1874... 1875... 676.822.00 637.665.00 1876 801,018.00- CORN PALACE OF 188 fHODUCTS. 18 77 840,047.86 18 78 834,700.00 18 79 . 720,780.5(1 1880 775,485 00 18 81 759.712.41 18 83 834,563. 0( 1883 999,917.3(1 18 84 1.076,139.85 1885 8?7,731.7(. 1886 1,048.923.01 1887 1,317,383.0(1 18 88 1,874,974.7(1 18 89 1.744,861.5(1 1890 l,859.427..-j(i 1891 1,916.334,50 1892 1,682.158.34 1893 1,544,803.00 Dakota county has 500 farms,, valued at corn palace of u... 31,000,000, and the machinery and implements |75,000. Peizes and Med- als. — At the second national Corn Palace in Sioux City, Iowa, September 24th to Oc- tober 6, 1888. Dakota county was awarded first premium on corn, and second on fruit, and also second on best general exhibit. Then again, at the third Corn Palace at the CORN PALACE OF 1889. Same place from Sep- tember 2.3rd to October 5th, 1889, it won first prize on '■best general exliibit of corn, grasses, grass seeds, vege- tables and fruit,'" 1300; second prize on "best separate exhibit of corn," |25; the first prize of $50 on fruit was divided betweenDakota county andMonona county,Iowa, Dakota Co. also took prizes at the first CornPalace, which .opened October Brd and closed October 8th, and at the Palace for 1890, (Sept. 5th to Oct. 4th,) and ISSl 100 WAENEe's history of DAKOTA OOUNTV. The county com- missioners in session September 11, 1890, appropriated |250 to defray the expenses of collecting the county exhibits for the Corn Palace of that year. la 1889, at the great Universal Ex- position in Paris, France, Dakota county = was awarded an lion- corn palace of isso. orary diploma for her exhibit of corn, selected and for- warded by a committee, of which A. T. Haase was chair man. The following letter was sent to Dakota county The Golden Book or Memorial, Diplomas of the Uni- versal Exposition, of 1889, President, M. J. Herkin, 15 St. Sulpice Street, Pakis. Paris, 8 December. 1889. SiK — The administration of the Golden Book of the Universal Exposi- tion has dedicated to you a memorial diploma of the Universal Expobition of 1889. In conferring on you this diploma, imperishable symbol of the labors you have imposed on yourself, we wish to perpetuate the memory of the legitimate rewards earned by your products in the immense international concourse in which all the nations of the universe have 4aken port Please accept with the assurance of my most distinguished consideration. J. BuRKiN, President. TJie Dakota county agricultural society whs oj'ganized atDakotaCity, N. T., March 11, 1865, with David Boals, presi- dent, and Thos. L. Griffey secretary. At their third meeting, April 22nd, J. H. Williams was chosen CORN palace of 1891. as chairman and T. SOCIETIES. 101 L. Griifcy secretary, when the followini^ ofBcers were elected for the ensuing year: Alfred Elain, president; Barnabas Bates, vice president; Wm. Adair, secretary; John Smith, sr., treasurer; Win. Hogan, J.H. Williu'ns, James Stott, Henry Ream, Simon Dewitt and Peter Myers, directors; C. D. Martin and Wm. H. James, corresponding secretaries. This was the first agricul- tural society of any kind organized in Dakota county. Among its members not before mentioned were: C. ¥. Eckhart, John Naffziger, Samuel Whitehorn and James Maloney. The Meridian Cheese Makek's Association of Dakota County. — Was organized at the residence of Leonard Bates, June 1, 1875, electing the following of- ficers for the ensuing year: George Boals, president; C. H. Brown, vice president; John Joyce, secretary; Henry Wood, treisurer and salesman. The factory was located ouBatep' L.rm and did a thriving business, but the price of butter ad\anced and the cheese enterprise was finally abandoned. The first cheese manufactured in the county, how- ever, was by Jesse F. Warner, on the farm now owned l)y George Leamer, in 1858, where a large quantity of cheese was made. Farmers Club. — This society was organized in 1886 and held a great "Farmers' Institute" in a grove near Homer, July 30, 1887. Its principal members were Pius Neff, D. C. Dibble, G. W. Wilkinson, Sam A. Combs, J^Jelson Cowles, Will C. Dibble, Dennis Ar- mour, Tlios. L. Griffey, Wm. Armour, ^sa Rathbun, Wm. Holsworth, Thns. Ashford, Capt. C. O'Connor, Wm. Nixon, C. B, Bliven, A. T. Haase, J. O. Fisher, Wm. Taylor, Harlon Baird, J. F. Warner and Henry Ream. Bridges and Roads — Dakota county has expended' thousands of dollars in the construction of bridges and grading roads, the county commissioners having pur- cliased a road grader in "1886, and today the public KAILUOAUS. 103 highways throughout the county are in excellent con- dition. The first public thoroughfare established through the county was the old Platte river and Eunningwater military road, surveyed by Col, Sites, employed by the government in 1858, from Omaha via Dakota City to the mouth of the Niobrara river, (then called Running- water. The road entered the county fi'oin the south at the identical point on the line of the Winnebago Reser- vation whei-e James Biggs kept an Indian trading post. This old road is still visible at places and can yet be seen as it winds up- Pilgrim Hill, on the old Col. Warner place, two miles east of Homer. The first good bridge built in the county was on this road across Omaha creek near Omadi. An act of the Territorial legislature was approved June 22, 1867, appointing John F. DeBorde, Peter Myers and Marten Stuefer as a board of commissioners to locate a public road from Covington to West Point in Cuming county. An act was also approved February 18, 1867, appointing James Clark, John Boler and Patrick Twohig as a board of commissioners to estab- lish a road from Jackson to intersect a. road leading from Ponca to West Point. On August 27, 1885, the county commissioners let a contract to Macritchie & JSichols, of Chicago, for draining the ''swamp" which was caused by Elk and Pigeon creeks being damned up by beavers. It cost 110,846.50, Hiid was a great benefit to the county, in- creasing the value of land in the vicinity from |1.25 to $20 per acre. There were 46,952 yards of enrth re- moved. Raileoabb — At a special election held in Dakota county, March 25, 1872, to vote on |65,000 bonds for Northern Nebraska & Central Dakota railroad com- pany, there were 375 vot'?s "for" and 186 "against" bonds. The company failed to build any road and re- leased payment of the bonds January 7, 1883. 104 Warner's history of Dakota county. A special election was held February 10, 1873, to vote on 173,000 bonds for the St. Paul & Nebraska railroad company, at which time there were 289 "for" and 187 '-against'' bonds. The proposition was defeated. On December 27, 1875, a special election was held to vote 195,000 bonds for the Covington, Columbus & Black Hills railroad companj-. There were cast at this election 486 votes "for" and 94 "aj^ainst" bonds. Preparations were at once made for building the road and on the 24th, day of June 1876, at 9:80 a. m , Judge Hubbard drove the first spike on this road, which was also the first ever driven on any railroad in Dakota county and on the 29th, the first engine brought to the county, "Dakota No. 1," was crossed over tiie river at Sioux City. The road was soon completed through the coiinty from Covington via Dakota City and Jackson, a distance of twenty-two and a quarter miles and bonds were issued to the railroad company. It was a narrow guage, be- 'ng three feet and six inches wide. This company also did considerable grading on the Omaha branch to Em- erson, but did not complete the road. The Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha railroad company having- purchased the Covington, Columbus & Black Hills rail- road, changed it to a standard guage in 1880 and built the road through the county to Emerson via Hub- bard, and now has over forty miles of railroad in the county valued at $190,000. A first-class steel railroad bridge was built across the Missouri river between South Sioux City and Sioux City in 1888, at a cost of $2,000,000. This railroad and bridge property has passed into the control of tlie Chicago & Northwestern system. In 1889 the Sioux City & Ogden Short Line com- pany graded a railroad bed through the county from South Sioux City, passing north of Dakota City, thence to Jackson and up the valley of Elk Creek, and a winter bridge was completed and engine No. 374 crossed over to Covington January 27, 1890. RAILltOADS. 105 A number of railroad surveys have been made through the southern part ot the county by different companies by way of Homer, but as yet no railroad has been constructed, although the route from Dakota City up the Omaha creek valley to the Logan river is one of the best to be found in this section. The first projected railroad in the county was the Sioux City & Columbus, organized in 1867. The first survey was made in 1868 and was surveyed by Wil- gosci, surveyor, James Stott, J, F, "Warner, William Adair, C. F. Bayha, Gideon Warner and John G. Ogden, The route they surveyed is the exact location of the raiU road now built to Emerson. It was intensely cold weather and a great suowstormovertook the party, freezing some of them badly but not seriously. J. F. "Warner was sent to "Washington to get a "restoration of the Union Pa- eific land grant" to apply on this road, but congress failed to do this and the Sioux City & Columbus road was not built. CHAPTER VIII. Indians — "The Logan War." Dakota county has had very little trouble with the Indians since its settlement by white people. In September, 1855, tweiity-one Sioux Indians came upon a small company of settlers on the Omadi town site, stealing everything they had, including their boat, which was their only source of reaching supplies on the Iowa side; but fortunately, after fasting three days they found a half decayed hawk, with which they appeased their Jinnger, until a Frenchman happened to come along with a boat. During the summer of 1855 Adam Benners, with his family settled in the northwestern part of the county, and one day while Mr. Benners was absent three Ponca Indians came along and after ransacking the house en- tered the room where Mrs. Benners lay sick in bed, with her new born babe by her side. They pulled the feather bed oft' onto the floor, the woman and child with it, which so frightened her that she died from the ex- posure and shock of the'fi'ight, who whs survived but a few days by her babe. The three Indians were delivered up to Gen. Harney, at Ft. Randall, tried, condemned and executed for the crime. This is the only killing of white people, by Indians, in Dakota county, although the Winnebngo Indians have killed several white men in this vicinity. C. S. Munson was killed in 1870 by five Winnebagoes on the INDIANS. 107 western border of the Reservation, and Holly Scott, a Winnebago, killed Geo, Skinner near the Winnebago Agency in May, 1879, and another white man was killed there abont this time. Scott was sentenced to ten years in the state penitentiary, but died before his time had expired. Dakota county is bounded on the south by the Omaha and Winnebago Reservations, (now Thurston county,) and contains about 1,200 Winnebagoes and 1,100 Omahas. The U. S. Indian Agents have been for the Winnebagoes: St. A. D. Balcomb, who in 1864 came with them from Crow Creek, in Dakota Territory ; Charles Matthewson, appointed in 1865; Howard White, in 1869; Taylor Bradlv, in 1874; Howard White, again appointed in 1878; Arthur Edward, in 1880; Dr. G, W. Wilkinson, Oct. 17, 1881; Charles H. Potter, Aug. 7, 1885; Gen. Jo'^f^ph HoUman, appointed in 1886, but failed to take chu-ge; Col. Jesse F. Warner, Nov. 1, 1886; Robert T. Ashley, Sept. 16, 1889; Captain W, H. Beck, June, 1893. Agents for the Omahas: John Hepner, appointed in 1854; John Robertson, in 1856; William Wilson, 1858; W. E. Moore, 1859; Geo. B. Graif, 1860; O. 11. Irish, 1861; Robert W. Furnas, 1863; William Gallon, 1866; Edward Painter, 1869; T. T. Gillingham, 1873; Jacob Vore, 1876; Howard White, 1878; since which time one Agent has had charge of the affairs of both tribes of Indians. Another chapter was added to the history of Da- kota county when three Winnebago Indians were called upon to take their seats in the tribunal of justice as jurymen at the ]\larch term of the district court, 1889, and' there, in the presence of their paler brothers, wielded tlie power confided to a jury in behalf of right and jus- tice. Surely the world doth move, while the vast and rapid strides of civilization goes sweeping onward. A few years ago the Winneb:i;j;> Indians decked in war paint sent forth a war-whoop in the terrible "Minnesota Massacre" which will go on s'junding down through the 108 WAKNEe's history of DAKOTA COUNTY. years, reviving in the minds of coming generations tlie most cruel and cowardly drama to be found throusiliout all the pages of liistory. And today, three members of this self same tribe are cliosen as jurymen to decide in the court room the fates of members of the race whom a few short years ago they slew with the tomahawk. Below we give a short sketch of the first three In- dian jurymen ever chosen in ISebraska: David St.Cyb.— Was born on Christmas Day. 1864. at Crow Creek, D. T.; was eldest son of Mitchell St.Cyr, who died at Louis Jopp's place in 1889. David attended the Hampton Indian School, Virginia, three years, where he received a good common school education. Here he also learned to be a first- class penman aud I'or this reason was chosen as one of the clerks of election for Winnebago piecinct. After all the poll books had been received at the court house, it was the general comment that David St.Cyr had sent the neatest and most complete poll book of any polliug place in the county. Pbospek Amell.— Was born March 14, 1845. at Four l^ake Madison, Wisconsin. Came with the Winnebago Indians to Nebraska in 1865, and located on the north boundary of the reservation near Omaha Creek, where he has resided to the present time, except three years when he was a cow boy and with "the cow boys stood," along the Elkhorn and Logan rivers. He has a fair education and can talk both the Indian and English languages. Alexa.ndek Payeh— Was born March 18. 1820, at Mil- waukee Wisconsin. Moved to Nebraska with the Winnebago Indians and has acted as U. S. Indian interpreter, captain of police and held various other offices at the Winnebago Agency. Has a fair education— talks both Indian and English. Is a good carpenter by trade. Now living on a farm near the agency. Was one of the judges of election in 1889 for Winnebagt) precinct. "THE LOGAN WAR." In order to protect themselves against "out-side claim jumpers" the pioneers organized claim clubs, one at Oinadi and one at Logan. In the spring of 1857 there was a difficulty at Logan, growing out of a claim contest. Joseph Conley had jumped another man's claim and on the 16th, of April the quarrel reached to something like a riot — Conley was besieged in a house guarded by HarlonBaird, John W. Virden, Alfred Elam "TUE LOGAN WAE." 109 and others, who were marching around the building with their guns. Some time previous to this, during the day, a few shots were fired by each side in which Joseph Conley was shot in the shoulder, and by evening, things assumed a war like appearance. The Omadi club was appealed to, to quell the disturbance, late in the night, and in less than an hour thirty armed men were march- ing through the darkness to the scene of the conflict, led by the courageous Deputy Sheriff, Tum Eyan. It was after midnight when they halted at the Chihuahua House in Dakota City, where Col. Bates was indulging in his first sleep in Dakota county. He was aroused from his slumbers, and looking out of the second story window he beheld the war-like scenes below, and won- dered what kind of a country he had gotten into, where armed men met in such boisterous conclave in the dark- ness of the night. In that mass of defiant faces he saw Geo. T. Woods, A. H. Baker, Henry Eeam. Moses Krcps, John Taffe, John B. Arteaux, Jacob Hallock, Tom Ryan, Robert Alexander, Charley Morse, Abra- ham Hirscli and W. C. McBeath. Here the sheriff, Geo. W. Williamson took charge ot the '-warriors" and gave the command, "forward," and they hurried away to Logan, arriving there just as the first rays of light were peeping over the eastern hills. At first the rioters showed signs of resistance, but the brave and fearless sheriff, knowing the fighting qualities of his supporters demanded peace and ordered Conley turned over to him, which was immediately complied with. Thus quiet was restored without bloodshed, and the prisoner taken to Omadi for protection. CHAPTER IX. Population. In 1854 there was not a single white settler in what is now Dakota county; the wild animals roamed with freedom over the prairies; the winding streams coursed down to the rivers unobstructed by the hand- ef man, and thesnn shone npon a primeval land. The following figures show the growth of population since 1855: 3006 3192 ; 3107 3108 3216 5699 The census of 1890 divides the population in the different precincts as follows: Dakota 1,677, Cov- ington 1,028; St. John's 676; Emerson 434; Omadi 1,028; flut)bard 385; Pigeon creek 359; and Summit 899. 1855 . ... 86 1876 1856 . . . ._ fi4.fi 1877 I860 819 1878 1869 . ..1598 1879 1870 2040 1880 1874 2759 1890 CHAPTER X. Crime and Casualties. There have been very few tragic deaths within the borders of Dakota county, compared with those of other localities. The. first white death in the county was that of Mrs. Adam Benners, who Jived in the northwestern part of the county. It was in the summer of 1855, during Mr. Benners absence, three Ponca Indians en- tered their house and ransacked it geuerally, frighten- ing Mrs. Benners to sucli an extent tliat she died in a short time afterwards. In Ang. 1856 Moses Bacon, a brotlier of J. M. Bacon, formerly of Sioux City, Iowa, was drowntid while attempting to cross tlie Missouri to Covington in a small boat, which ran upon a snag and was capcised. William Tucker came to Dakota county iu 1856 and took a claim wliich is now Thos. Ashford's meadow. In the spring of 1858 he was killed in the Omadi saw mill by being cauglit in a belt and carried around between it and the fly wheel. A. H. Baker and J. H. Bliven were eye witnessess to this sad accident. John Fitzpatrick was shot by Geo.Griffey in a saloon at Covington in Aug. 1857. They were quarreling about a claim at the time. Fitzpatrick died almost instantly. John Murdick was drowned in a well in Omadi pre- cinct August 22, 1868. John Dunn, a nephew of Patrick Monahan was 112 warmer's history or Dakota county. dr')wned while bathing in Crystal Lake, August 15, 1871. Archey Peasley was diowned in a, freshet on Elk Creek, while trying to save a bridge, in June, 1874. A ten year old son of Geo. E. Ironsides was drowned in the Missouri at Covington, July 6,1874, James E. Kemper was struck by lightning and instantly killed on a sand bar at Covington, March 20, 1878- A man was killed by lightning on the same spot, eight years before. Henry Mellon came to his death by sunstroke, July 13, 1878, a few miles west of Jackson. I)on)onick Beilinski shot and killed Jim Harris, a Winnebago Indian, whom he claimed was cutting a tree on his land, in January. 1878- Beilinski ••jumped his bail" and his whereabouts isyet unknown. October 12, 1878, Wiley, a 15 year old son of {"Christopher Irwin accidently shot himself, while hunt- ing along Crystal Lake. Thomas Hardin, a Winnebago Indiaii was killed while drunk, by a load of merchandise which he was ban ling to the Winnebago Agency, upsetting and fall- ing upon liim, in the western part of tlie county, August 23, 1879. J. B. Hoyt fell from a scaifbld, while working on a granary for Jacob Heikes, and died October 19, 1879. Michael Dor.-ey was shot and killed at Jackson, by Patj-ick Boyle, February 5, 1880- Boyle was cleared on the grounds of self defense. Mrs. Rev. Hays was killed on Fiddler's Creek near Louis Blessing's place. May 1, 1880, by being thrown fi'cm a wagon. May 3. 1S80, Eddie and Howard, two sons of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Cheney were drowned in Crystal Lake. This is one of the saddest events that ever occured in the county. Emma Biggs Jumped from the ferry boat at Cov- ington, July 14, 1880, and was drowned. Cl^IME AKD CASUAI/riES. 113 William Oniiningliaiii was drowned near (-(iving- ton in. the high watei- of Api-il, 1881- William Hull sliot and killed hinaselt' in a ravine south-east of Homer, in the winter of 1881- Clinton Norriw was shot and killed in the Clias. Curtis drng store, in Homer. January 3, 1887, l>y Newton Piirdj, who was tried and sentenced to serve a term in the penitentiary, !int being granted a new trial was cleared on the grounds of self defense, Henry Herwe": was drowned in the Missouri river, below Dakota City, April 5, 1889. He had gone hunt- ing across the river, in company with M. O. Ayres and Will C. Dibble, and had shot a goose, which he wnt. endeavoring to reach when the skiff was capsized This sad accident cast a shadow of sorrow over the en- tire county. The body was afterwards found and interred in St. Mary's cemetery, near Homer. Mat League was sliot and killed by Jrhn Seversmi in Jackson, December 22. 1888. Severson was cleared of the charge of murder on the plea of self dcfi^nse. Seotember 13. 1888, William Crone died at the Court house in Dakora City, from the effect of poison- ed whisky. Frankie, an eight year old son of Mr. and Mi's. Lucia was run over by the cars at ISou'th Sioux City. and died the next day, July 12, 1889. Mrs. Ludwiu- Kipper cut her throat at her home near Homer, and died August 25, 1888. Ill health was the cause. December 15, 1889, El Ei-win was stabbed and killed in a saloon at Covington, by James Toohey. He was tried and convicted of manslaughter, at Dakota City, September 27. 1890 and sentenced to two years in the penitentiary. Miss Elizabeth Lapsley, who came to Dakota county with her parents in 1870. while in company with other members of the family, was accidentally killed by an engine while they wei'e crossing the rail- 114 WAENER S HISTORY OF DAKOTA COUNTY. road tracks in the eastern pnrt of Sionx City, Iowa, on November 29, 1890. Cliristian Jacohson, a young iViriner twenty-two years of age, son of C. Jacobson, was killed, May 22, 1891. supposed to have been kicked by one of tlie horses while doing the chores on liis father's farm nortli of Honiei'. Will Kelsey came to Dakuta county in 1886, was drowned in Omaha creek, Augnst 20, 1891. Edward Ewnkoski was killed on the -Island" April 27, 189], by being thrown from a wagon as he was I'e- turning from Sionx City to his home in Brnsiiy Bend. P. J. Keeffe was rnn over by a steam threshing machine in St. Johns precinct, September 24, 1891, and died fron) the effect of the same, two days later. The Homer State Bank was robbed of 551,500 on the night of October 31, 1891, Hermai: i'Veese being CHshier at the time. There was no clue as to who did the robbing. The connty commissioners offered a re- M'ard of S20C for the arrest of the robbers. CHAPTER XI. Fires. Dakota County has suflered more from praii'ie tires than any otlier kind. Years ago when the county whs sparsely ^ettled tlie ravage of tne prairie fire was indeed, appalling, as it went sweeping over the land uninterrupted, burning the lonely, pioneers out of •'house and home," and almost devastating the region over which it passed. Probably the greatest prairie fire since the advent of the pioneers to Dakota county was in the fall of 1867. A strong wind was screeching down from the northwest and darkness had just settled upton the laud when the people of the Missouri bottom and Dakota City were startled at a great mass of flames rolling over the hills between Pigeon Creek and Jackson. In a few minutes later the fire dashed down upon the bot- tom, over the swamp which was covered with grass more than ten feet high. At this time the crash of the flames resembled the roar of distant thunder and the earth and sky was grandly illuminated, it was almost as light as day at Dakota City. In less than thirty min- utes the fearful fire had reached the Omaha creek at the old Kathbun place, burning everything that came in its way — many horses, cattle and hogs were burned to death. The next day a wind set in from the south and carried the fire north through Dakota City and through the dense timber then standing between that town and Covington, doing great damage. 116 WAK^•KR'S HISTORY (IF VAVXl'tA COUNTY. A. H. Baker's residence was burned, in Omadi, in 1S58 witli all bis household goods. They had been out attending a party and returned just in time to see their home destroyed. Tije Dakota City Pottery, which stood on the river bank at that place, wjis totally destroyed by lire March 28, 1861. In 1865 John Montgomery occupied a house in Dakota City as a barn tV)r his horses, wjiich stood on the north side of Broadway, and had formerly been used as a residence. Dnriufj the year it esnght fire and was liurned, destioyinij; two valuable horses belong- ing to Mr. MontgOHiery, Tn the winter of 1868, Jojichim Oesto-lin^'s resi- dence, which stood on the corner of Hickory and 15th street, in Dakota City, was humed to the ground. This building was the old Rouleaux house moved from Omadi. The next night after the bui'ning of the Oester- ling house, 1;he old log Chihuahua House, wiiicb was occup'ed by Mrs. Peter Goodhue was burned It stood on Broadway west of where is located the present Court House. On the 26th of November 1870 the old Rush school house in the Meridian district which was made of logs in 1858, was destroyed by tire. It stood on tlie tract of land just west of Geo. Leainer's place. Sam- uel Gamble taught the first school in this building. E. D. Ayres' saw mill in Brushy Bend togethei" with 40,000 feet of lumber was burned Sept. 2, 1871. On the 7th of May, 1871, Dakota City experi- enced one of the most destructive fii'es that ever occurred in Dakota county. There were four estab- lishments burned, — C. F. Eckhart's store on the corner of Broadway and 14th street, and John Rluide's shoe shop, Jake Mikesell's store, David Bales' harness shop, all west of Eckhart's store and in same block. The FIRES. 117 Are originated in Mikesell's store. A large prairie fire passed over the w.estern part of tlie county April 14, 1873, burning up W. H. "Way's home, grHin and hay, on Elk creek. The Ogden House, situated on the corner of Wal- nut and 15th street was completely destroyed by fire, March 14, 1876. Loss |6,000, insurance |4,000. This was the old Wm. Lockwood building, erected in 1858. Briton Willis' large two story house on his farm in Brushy Bend was destroyed by fire March 27, 1876. This was the John Virden house moved from oid Logan. Feb. 20, 1880, the store room of M. P. Ahern and a saloon were burned at Jackson. The residence of James Conners, and saloon occu- pied by Michffil Kennelly were burned at Jackson, July 28, 1884. The Salem Evangelical Lutheran church, situated three miles directly west of Dakota City was strxick by lightning and burned to ashes, Aug. 6, 1886- Another church was immediately erected on the same site. Tlie greatest fire, in loss of buildings, occured Jan. 30, 1890, in Stanton, where seven saloons, restaurant, etc., were burned to the ground. Total loss, about $40,000. v\'ith some insurance. A fire broke out in Jaclvson at 1 o'clock Tuesday morning, December 30, 1892, in the merchandise store of Thomas Clark, burning it and an adjacent building, owned by Thomas Hartnett and occupied by Peter Gauthier with a small stock of dry goods and a res- taurant in connection. Mr. Clark's goods were all con- sumed, but Mr. Gauthier's goods were carried into the street. The damage done, including the buildings and goods, is estimated at about $2,000, with a light insur- ance. Tlje law office of Jay & Beck was burned at Da- kota City, July 15, 1891. The -'Fashion Theatre" and William Leech's sa- loon building were burned in Covington, January 18, lis WARNER 3 HISTORY OF DAKOTA OOtJNTr. 1892. John Sides lost his barn, horses, hay, etc. by fire in the fall of 1888. The origin of the tire was clouded in mystery. The Brushy Bend school house was burned January 21, 1893. On Monday night June 5, 1893, the jail building, or calaboose, at Jackson was burned, supposed to have been of incendiary origin. BLlBURa LAKE CHAPTER XII. Great Stoems and Blizzards. The memorable cold and stormy winter of '56 and '57 will never be forgotten by Dakota county pioneers. For forty days the thermometer did not register above the freezing point, and the snow stood four feet deep on the level. ""^On New Year's day, 1864, a violent blizzard swept over the entire western country, continuing three days. The Civil War was then in progress, and what few pio- neers remained here suffered intensely, as did stock of all kinds. A severe blizzard began at 2 o'clock p. m. on Sun- day, March 12, 1870, and continued seventy-two hours without cessation. The wind blew with a terrific fury and the air was filled with a blinding mass of snow. On the 9th and 10th of May, 1870, a great snow storm prevailed throughout this part of the country. Enough snow fell to make sleighing good. A great blizzard swept over Dakota county and ad- jacent country, begining on Nov. 18, 1871, and continu- ing with a fury, such as was never before witnessed by tlie pioneers. There was intense suffering among the people as well as stock of all kinds. On the first day of tlie storm William Hunter was frozen to death while 120 WAKNKE's HISTOET of DAKOTA COUNTY. returning to the Logan valley with a load of wood. Harrison Allen and Albert S. Miner who were in com- pany with Hunter were also badly frozen, but not fa- tally. The morning of January 8, 1872, was pleasant and mi. the snow was melting in the warm sunshine, and the , ople everywhere were working with coats off — but at 10 'clock a. m., in an instant without the least warn- ing th wind swept down from the northwest, and the ground was soon covered with drifting snow. The ther- mometer fell fifteen degrees in ten minutes, and an old man named Austin was frozen to death on the Logan river. April 14, 1873, a blizzard passed over Nebraska, but was not as severe in Dakota county as it was fur- ther west, where the people suffered intensely and a large amount of stock perished. Dakota county was visited by a severe blizzard Feb. 23, 1875, in which Sabin Bailey lost his life in trying to reach his home on Pigeon creek. He had been to Jackson to get his horses shod, when he lost his way and was found frozen to death the next morn- ing. The roads in many places were impassable. The winter of 1880 and '81 will be remembered in this locality for many years by the inhabitants. Dur- ing that winter eight feet of snow fell and the ground everywhere was covered to the depth of four feet, roads in many places were abandoned, many lives were lost in the west, stock by the hundreds were frozen to death and in the spring break-up all the low lands were flooded, bridges carried away, and a vast amount of property destroyed. The first snow storm occured Oct. 15, 1881, and up to the Ist of May following snow could be seen in the ravines of the bluffs. June 6, 1884, the southern part of the county was sw6pt by a severe wind and hail storm, demoralizing crops, and doing considerable damage to buildings, wind mills, etc. GREAT STORMS AND BLIZZARDS. 121 A great wind and hail storm passed over Dakota county from tlie northwest, June 14, 1885. Davy & Barry's store in Jackson was overturned, fronts of build- ings blown in, and barns, wmd mills and other build- ings torn to pieces. The smoke stacks, cabin and pilot house of the ferry boat, Andrew S. Bennett were blown off, and crops greatly damaged. Jan. 12, 1888, one of the greatest blizzards ever seen in the west swept over the country. The inhabi- tants were taken by surprise. All day a mild south wind wafted the large soft snow flakes gently to the ground, until about 4 p. m. when all of a sudden a ter- rific northwest wind filled all the air with a seething mass of snow. People blinded by the whirling snow lost their way and many perished in the storm. But not a life was lost in Dakota county. People are now too well protected by groves for the storms to do much damage. CHAPTER XIII. fuBLic Schools. As has been stated the first school taught in Daltota county was by Miss Putnam, in Omadi, about the middle of April, 1857, and a week later Miss Rosana Clark began a school in St. Johns. The first schools were all carried on by subscriptions. There are thirty-seven districts in the county with good substantial school houses in each one. As near as can be ascertained the teachers of the county from 1857 to the present time were: EARLIEST TEACHERS. Mary De Borde Mrs. Caroline Ogg Maggie McCready Simon De Witt H. II. Brown Mary Ann Boyle Miss Putnam Basana Clark Ottie Marsh Mary Pinkerton Mrs. L. G. Packard Mrs. Joseph Bradbrary Edward Arnold Wm. H. Collings Phoebe Wigle Maria Parsons G. W. Wilkinson Julia Nash Johannah O'Brien Z. B. Turman Samuel Gamble Jeremiah Lucy Samuel Williamson Jennie Pierce Octavia Mershon Mary F. Jones Etta Mershon Sarah Wilson Wm. Holsworth Charles H. Potter PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 123 OTHER Adair, Lizzie AsMord, Maiy Adair, Clara Asliford, Maggie Adair, Mattie Armour, William Abell, Mrs. O. N. Ashford, John Allen, Amelia Abell, Otis N. Adams, Chas. Armour, Nettie Antrim, Edward Adair, Mamie Alcock, J. A. Ayres, Florence Allen, Bessie Anderson, Lydia Beechan, A. H. Burds, Mrs. E. C. 131iven, Anna Boyle, Patrick Biggs, Anna Bridenbaugh, John Baird, Emma Bille, Geo. C. Bates, Jennie Blanchard, Jennie Barrett, Mrs. Ada Baker, Mollie Baker, Nellie Barber, Chas. Baird, Bessie Benton, Minnie Bauer, R. C. Brannaman, Thena Brower, Ollie N. Bates, Edith Barnes, B. P. Bridenbaugh, Benjamin Biggs, Emma Barry, Kate Burns, J. K. Bashor, Chas. H. Brill, Emma Bartlett, Wm. T. Bridenbaugh, Wm. Buddie, Chas. A. TEACHERS. Buttler, Ida Brannaman, Perry Buttler, Sadie Brown, Ella Buckley, J. S. Carpenter, Alta Campbell, J. A. Campbell, Wm. Commerford, Mat. C. Clapp, William Covell, J. H. B. Cole, A. D. Cullen, Katie Campbell, Lucy J. Cowles, Matie Conley, Donnie Cullen, Thomas Cord, Minnie Christopherson, Christina Crawford, Mrs. R. B. Cole, Mrs. A. D. Carroll, S. E. ' Clary,Ellen Cuppett, Milford, Carney, Mary Cain, John Dillon, Gerald De La Matyr, U. H. Drake, C. M. Davey, Frank Dow, Minnie De Long, Jennie Duggan, Kate De Long, Lucy De Zell, Addle De Long, Edward Dennis, Mrs, J. W. Downs, F. II. Delaney, Laura A. Dickinson, Eva D'Neut, George Davis, Winnie. Dorn, Lillie Daley, Sarah K. Daley, Mattie Engelean, Effle Engelean, Jennie Elcock, Mary 12i WARNER S HI8T0BT OF DAKOTA CX)IJNTY. Brady, Celia Hlessing, Anna Crawford, K. B. Coats, C. C. Clark, Joseph Collins, John Erlach, Sarah Ford, Charley Fair, Kate Fair, Ella Fair, George 11. Fisher, Myra Fair, Gertrude Fair, Helen Finnerty, Maggie Franciscus, H. A. Flint, S. N. Fair, Lem Finnerty, Dennis Fair, Porter Fegley, Laura Frazier, Mrs. A. E. Fowler, Mamie Fales, F. D. Goodhue, Sarah George, Martin (jreter, Mrs. E. P. George, Mary E. Gribble, Lizzie Godfrey, Rose Graves, Guy T. (iilliland, D. W. Gribble, Josie Graves. Stella Gaughran, John Goble, A. L. Greenwood, Lucy Gallagher, Rose Gillen, Mary N. Kail, Edward P. Hirsch, Luella Horn, Lucretia Hileman, Kate Hager, Roae Hager, Anna Hamilton, Belle Hamilton, Blanche Haase, Lizzie iJibbs, Ina Elcock, Anna Eckhart, Ida Eckhart, Clara Ellis, Cora Eckhart, Wm. Erlach L. Hall, Joseph Hoyt, Zula Hunt, Emma Holmes, Samuel Hogan, Agnes Herb, George Hunt, Kittie Hoover, Malinda Heikes, S. A. Howard, Mary Howard, Mattie Haupt, J. C. Jones, J. L Jones, Rose W. Jones, Lillian Joyce, Clara Joyce, Mina Jones, Sarah Johnson, Mary Jones, Mary Jester, J. 1. Kennedy, Daniel Keel, Mary Kingsbury, A. G. Kuhn, L. J. Knapp, Mrs. Geo. A. Kinnear, Eva Knapp, Daniel. Knox, Rebecca Kennelly, Josie Kennelly, Anna King, Thomas J . Kramer, A. J. Knox, Mamie Kryger, Lelah Learner, Fremont Leamer, Jessie Lapsley, Eliza Leffingwell, Cora Lake, Hattie Mitchell, Elmira McNeal, Andrew Mai-tin, Ella PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 125 Morgan, W. A. Monahan, Mary Matthews, A. McHenery, Ella McHenery, Katie McCune, J. G. March, Flora McQuilkin, Mattie Manning, Nettie Martin, Millie Moriarity, Minnie Moriarity, Nellie Marquess, W. B. McShane, Allie Mc Kinney, Nellie Mikesell, S. P. Manning, Willis Manning, Mary Mallory, M. B. McCurdy, Nellie Monfort, Mary Marquess, Maggie McAfee, Philo A. S. Mansfield, Minnie McDeWitt, Belle Murphy, Maggie McGibbon, J. H. MoCool, W. C. McCool, Mattie A. Nicklin, Mattie Norman, Harry Nicklin, Hattie Naffziger, "Wm, Neff, Mary Orr, Lillie O.Neil,' Michael O'Connor, Julia O'Connor, Mary O'Connor, Katie O'Connor, Lottie O'Neil.S.E. Owens,. Tina O'Neil, Emma ^ O'Neil, Lucy O'Connor, Ella Price, Helena Parker, Nettie Phillips, Emma Prichard, Sadie Pinkerton, Nellie M. Priest, J. B. Phillips, Edith Ream, Henry Ream Fannie Ryan, Julia E. Rathbun, Annie Rathbun, Francis Rockwell, Minnie Rockwell, Ella Ream, Nina Ryan, Ella Roberts, Hugh Roberts, Alice Ream, Mable Rathbun, Irene Rush, Frankie Rogers, Lizzie Rock, E. M. Rogers, James J. Richmond, Belle Ryan. Mary Ann Roy, D. W. Rundle, Mary C. Rogers, Minnie Rutter, Retta Rice, W. R. Sale, 0. E. Sheridan. Ella Stoner, Anthony Sloan, T. G. Stinson, Samuel Sides, John Smiley, Laura Smiley, Eva Shanklin, Hattie Smith, Jettie Sullivan, Mary Smith, Elmer E. ^tamm, Elias Stamm, Fern Senter, Gertrude Savage, E. Stinson, Ida Sabin, A. I. Thomas, H. C. Trinkler. Maggie Warner, Nellie Warner, Alice 126 WAKNBR 8 HISTOBT OF DAKOTA OOUNTY. Warner, Horace Way, C. B. Wilson, W. S. Whitehorn, Emma F, Wilbur, Emma Wilson. Madge Woodward, Etta O. Winkhaus, Lizzie Winkhaus, Mary Warner, William Warner, Emma Wood. D. H. Way, Ilettie Waldvogle, Liena Wellington, Effle Wilbur, Eugene B. Welly, Henry J. Wigle, Emma Way, Lizzie West, Miriam Wright, Lettie Webster. Mrs. O. Young. C. Y. Zimmerman, Minnie Zimmerman, Ada Zimmerman, Luther CHAPTER XIV. County Officeks and Date of Thkie Election. COUNTY CLERKS. Jacob H. 1 1 allock. November* 1856 William G. Crawford, May 20t 1857 JohnM. Grifflii, A.ugust 3* 1857 James W. Virtue, August 2 1858 James W. Virtue, October 11 1859 James W. Virtue. October 8* 1851 i^eorge H. Gralf, April 4 1863 «eorge B. Graff, October 13J: 18b'l Jame's Stott, (Jctober 1865 James Stott. October 8 1867 William C iVJolieatli. October 13 1869 William C. Mcljeath, October 10 1871 William C. McBeath, October 11 1873 William C McBeath, October 13 1875 William C. McReath, November 6 1877 William C. Mc Beath. November 4 1879 Henry Stott, November 8 1881 Henry Stott, November 6 1883 James P. Twohig, November 3 1885 James V, Twohig, November 8 1887 James P Twohig, November 5 - -. 1889 T. V. Hrannan, November ^,| 1891 ^Resigned May 2(i, 1857. Resigned April 5, 1858. Resigned, f.xppointed by Commissioners. jSpscial election (clerk and register.) i Term expires January 4, 1894. 128 waener's history of dakota county. COUNTY TRBASUREES. William Young, November 1856 Charles Young, August 3* 1857 Barnabas Bates, November 6t 1857 George A. Hinsdale, November 301 1857 Dr. M. Pinkerton, October 11 1859 John McCarthy, October 8 1861 John McCarthy, October 13§ 1863 William Adair, May 9t 1864 William Adair, October 10 1864 William Adair, October 1865 William Adair, October 8 1867 Enos Keel, October 12 1869 Enos Keel, October 10|| 1871 William Adair, October 7t 1873 Pius Nefl, October 14 1873 Pius Neff, October 13 1875 Dr. G. W. Wilkinson, November 6 1877 Dr. G. W. Wilkinson, November 4 1879 Pius Neff, November 8 1881 Pius Nefe, November 6 1883 Dr. G. W. Wilkinson, November 3 1885 Dr. G. W. Wilkinson, November 8 188T Cornelius J. O'Connor, November 5 1889 Cornelius J. O'Connor, November 3T[ 1891 ♦Resigned November 6, 1857. t Appointed by County Commissioners. jSpecial election. ^Reinoved May 9, 1864. llDied October 2, 1873. iJTerm expires January 4, 1894. COUNTY SHERIFFS. George W. Williamson. November 1S56 Thomas C. Byan. August 3 1857 Edwin R. Nash, October 11 1869 Henry Ream, October 8 1861 Samuel Gamble, October 13 1863 Samuel Gamble, October* 1865 Briton Willis, July 2t 1866 M. Pinkerton, October 9 186(> Benjamin P. Chambers, October 8 186" Benjamin F. Chambers, October 12 1869 Benjamin F. Chambers, October 10 1871 - Nicolas Maher, October 14 1873 COUNTY OFFICERS. 129 Nicolas Maher, October 13 187-5 Nicolas Maher, November 6 1877 Nicolas Maber, November 4 1879 Thomas C. Raird, November 8 1881 William P. Rathbun, November 6 1883 William P. Rathbun, November 3 1885 Nicolas Brasfleld, November 8 1887 William H , Ryan, November 5 1889 William H. Ryan, November SJ 1891 *Sesigned July 3, 1866. tAppoiuted by County Commissioners. JTerm expires January 4, 1894. COUNTY JUDi^ES Chauncy A. Horr,* fall of 1855 Chauncy A. Horr. November 1856 Alexander Johnson, August 3 1857 Tiiomas T. Collier, August 3 1858 Alexander H. Baker, October 11 1859 Simon UeWitt, October 8t 1861 John Naffziger , January 18J 1863 James H. Williams, October 13 1863 Samuel Whitehorn, October 1865 Henry H. Wilson. October 8^ 1867 William C. Mclieath, August 2911 1868 Samuel Whitehorn. September 18U 1868 B. K. lirown, October 13t 1868 Samuel Whitehorn, December 13^ 1868 Kelly W. Frazer, October 13 1869 Kelly W. Frazer, October 10 187J Kelly W. Frazer, October 14 1873 Kelly W. Frazer. October 12 1875 A. D. Cole, November 6 1877 Kelly W. Frazer, November 4 1879 Kelly W. Frazer, November 8 1881 Thomas J. King. November 6 1883 Eugene B. Wilbur, November 3 1885 Eugene B. Wilbur, November 8 1887 William P. Warner, November 5 1889 William P. Warner, November 3 1891 *Appointed by the Governor. t Failed to qualify, jSpecial election. ^Resigned August 29, 1868. Jl Appointed -refused to qualify. TJAppointed by Commissioners. 130 wabner'>j history of d.vkota coowTr. COUNTY SUPERINTENDENTS OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. Harlon Baird. August 3* 1857 William Ivi, Smith. November 13t 1857 Edv/ard Arnold, April 5J 1858 Edward Arnold, August 2 1858 William H. Collings, October 11^.. 1859 Samuel Aughey, December 3t 1866 John H. Maun. April 5|| 1869 Samuel Aughey. July 5. J 1869 Charles D. Martin, October 12 1869 Thomas .1. King, October 11 1870 Jesse F. Warner. October lOlf 1871 John H . Maun. February 38t 1873 John T. Spencer, October 8 1873 John S. Orr, October Uft 1873 John T Spencer, October SJ 18T5 J . Zimmerman. October 13 1875 ' J . Zimmerman. November 6 1877 Thomas J. Sloan, November 4 1879 Thomas J. Sloan, November 8 1881 A . M atthews, November 6 1883 Guy T. (iraves. November StX 1885 William C. Dibble, January 13j 1886 William C. Dibble, November 2 1886 John 1. Jones, November &** 1887 i^awrence Brlach. November 6 1888 Lawrence Erlach,. November 5 1889 Lue A. Hirsch, November 3|| 1891 \V. T. Bai-tlett. June 18|1|| •. . 1893: W . T. Bartlett, November 8 1892 "■Resigned November 6. 1857. tApppointed— resigned April 5, 1858. t Appointed by County Commissioners. I From 1860 to 1866 there was a Board of School Examiners, instead of a County Superintendent, and the following named persons served as examiners: William H. Collings John Taffe, William Adair, Thomas L. Griffey. John Joyce and A.McCready. The members of the board were appointed by the County Judge. II Appointed and resigned July .5, 1869. II lietused to qualify. ttResigned October 5, 1885. **Resigned November 1, 1888. tj Resigned April 1. 1886. ?;? Resigned June 18, 1892. III! Appointed by Supervisors. C'ODNTY OFFICEUS. 131 COUNTY SURVEYORS. Robert Alexander, August 3* 18J7 Michael O'Graely . November 30t 1857 Robert Alexander, C>ctober 11* 1859 Myron U. Jeffers. January 28t 1860 Leonard Bates, October 10 1860 Leonard Hates, October 8 1861 Leonard Bates. January 18t 1863 Leonard Bates, October 1865 Samuel Aughey, October 8t 1867 George C. Granger, January 6§ 1868 Samuel Aughey, July 30§ 1869 Samuel Aughey, October 13 1869 John U. Maim, October 10 1871 John H . Maun, October 14 1873 John H . Maun, October 13 1875 George C. Granger, November 6 1877 George C. Granger. November 4 1879 John 11 . Maun. November 8 1881 Leonard Hates, November 7 1883 Alex Abell, November 6 1883 Alex Abell, November 4 1884 Alex Abell, November 3 1885 Alex Abell, November 8 1887 George C. Granger, November 5 1889 George G. Granger, November 3 1891 *Resigned. tSpecial election. j Failed to qualify. I Appointed by County Commissioners COUNTY CORONERS. M. Pinkerton, October 8 1861 George E. Ironsides, October 14 1863 Van Buren Ferris, October 13 1868 liarnabas Hates. October • 1865 Barnabas Bates, October 8 1867 Harnabas Bates. October 13 1868 Henry Ream, October 12* 1869 David Bales, April 5t 1870 A. G. Manchester, October 11 ■ 1870 Joachim Oesterling, October 10 1871 Barnabas Hates, October 14 1873 Barnabas iiates, October 13 1875 Robert Campbell, November 6 1877 132 wakkek's histoet of dakota county. Robert Campbell, November 4 1879 Kobert Campbell, November 8 1881 Jesse Wigle. November 6* 1883 Barnabas Hates, March 29t 1884 Robert Campbell, November 3 1885 B. F. Sawyer, November 8 1887 Barnabas Hates, November 5 1889 R. r. Sawyer, November 3 1891 * Failed to qualify. tAppointed by County Commissioners COUNTY ATTORNEYS. William U. James, June 10* 1861 Thomas L. Griffey, October 18 1861 William U James, October 13t 1863 Kelly W. Frazer, November 2 ' 1886. Kelly W. Frazer, November 6J 1888 George U. Fair, Ianuary8^ 1890 J. J. McAllister, >Jovember 4 1890 J. J. McAllister, November 8 189a 'x'Vppointed hy County Commissioners. tOffice discontinued in 1865 until 1868- jCounted out by Supreme Court. ^Successfully contested COUNTY REGISTERS William Klgrim,* fall of 1855 William Pilgrim, November 1856 John M. Hayes. August 3 1857 Francis M. Yirdem, October lit 1859 *Appointed by the liovernor. tbaat Register, served till October 17, 1861. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. .Vlexander H. Baker, JSovember 185;S Samuel Gamble, November 1856) John J. Trecy, November 1856; Samuel Gamble, August 3 1;85T Elbridge G. Jbampson. August 3t lS58i John J. 'I'reoy, October 11 l8.o9i Asa Rathbun, October 10 I86O1 James O. Fisher, Oxitober 10 1860) COUNTY OFFICERS. 133 Jesse Wigle, October 8 1861 Daniel Duggan, October 14 1862 John NafEziger, October 13 1863 Henry Beam, October 10 1864 Michael Kennelly, October 1866 John Naflziger, October 9 1866 William Taylor, October 8 1867 Patrick Twohig, October 13 1868 Barnabus Hates . October 12 . , : .- 1869 Thomas Ashford, Sr.. October 1. 1(570 John Howard, October lOJ 1871 George 0. Granger, October 8 1872 Daniel C. Dibble, October 8 1872 Josiah W. Davis, October U i. 1873 George C. Granger, October 13 1874 John C. Gribble, October 12 1875 Henry Ream. October 7 1876 Patrick Ryan, November 6? 1877 John C. Gribble, November 5 , 1878 Henry Ream, November 4 1879 John Boler, February 5J1 1880 John Boler, November 2 1880 Eugene L. Wilbur, November 8 188) Henry Loomis, November 7 ' 1882 John Boles, November 6 1883 William Brown, November 4 .' 1884 Anthony J. Myers, November 3 . ; 1885 Patrick Casey, November 2 1886 William Brown, November 8 1*^87 William Taylor. November 6 188:8 Michael Heacom, November S 1889 J . O Fisher, November 4 1890 Nick Thyson, Novembers^ 1891 tDied 185«. JFailed to qualirfy and was appointed, ?l)ied January 18^ 1880. II Appointed to fill vacancy. ^Commissioner system discontinued and Thyson did not qualify. The last meeting of the Commissioners was held November 14, 1881. BOAKD OF SUPERVISORS. At tli-e general election Iveld ISov^mber 3, r891, the propfisition to adopt townsliip organizatioD wa« !?ubimitted to the voters, which carried hv a htrge ma^ joiuty. At tit£ same tiim£ the folloM-iiig tx)wnship sn- 134 wakneb's histoky of ua.kota county. pervisors were chosen, and clerks and feasurers after- wards appointed: St. Johns. — T.J. Clark, Supervisor; W. T. Bart- lett, Clerk; Ed T. Kearney, Treasurer. Oraadi. — Geo. W. Kockwell, Supervisor; J. R. Kelsey. Clerk; Joseph Smith, Treasurer. Dakota City. — W. F. Alteinus, Supervisor; Mell C. Beck, Clerk; A. T- Haase, Treasurer. Covington. — John N, Peyson, Supervisor; H, A. McCormick, Clerk; C. D. Smiley, Treasurer. Pigeon Creek. — J. W. Minter, Supervisor; (reo. Barnes, Clerk;; Jesse Williams, Tieasurer. Emerson. — Nick Tliyson, Supervisor; Joseph Burd, Clerk; John Doran, Ti-easurer. Summit. — M. liines. Supervisor; Dennis Hogan, Clerk; Michael Beacom, Treasurer. Hubbard failed to elect a Supervisor, and at the first meeting of the Board, November 18, 1891, Thos. M. Cullen was appointed for that township, with Henry Cain as Clerk and James Hartnett as Treasure)'. Township offi(;ers for 1802-93 chosen by election November 8, 1892, and by appointment, have been: St. Johns. — T.J. Clark. Supervisor; M. Kenuelly, Clerk; M. M. Boyle, Tre.:surer. Omadi. — Geo. C. Bille, Supervisor; M. S. Mans- field and M. Mason, Clerks; James L. Blanchard and Asa Eathbnn, Treasui'ers. Dakota City. — Atlee Hart, Supervisor; John T. Spencer, Clerk; A. T. Ilaase, Treasurer. Covington. — S. R. Cowles, Supervisor; PI. A. Mc- Cormick. Cleik; C. D. Smiley, Treafurer. Pigeon Creek. — Patrick Sweeney, Supervisor; Frederick Voss, Clerk; John Sierk, Treasurer. Emerson. — Fred Blume, Supervisor; E. J. Smith, Clerk; Benjamin Bonderson, Treasurer. Summit. — M. Pliiies, Supervisor; W. W. Sheahan, Clerk; John C. Duggan and John Rush, Treasurers. Hubbard. — George Hayes, Supervisor ; II. G. Briden- PRECINCT OPFICEES. 135 baugh and Henry Cain, Clerks; Thomas M. Cnllen, Treasurer. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE— OMADI PRECINCT.f Alexander Ford. Elbridge (i. Lampson. August 3 1857 X Asa Rathbun. .John E. Brown, October 11 1859 William Nixon, Alexander Ford, October 8 1861 John H. Willianas, October 14 1862 X William Nixon, Thomas Ashford, October 13 1863 James 11. Williams, October 1865 John Smith, Sr., October 9 1866 X Cornelius O'Connor, John Smith, Sr., October 13 1868 William Clapp, October 12 1869 Charles U. Potter, William Pilgrim, October 11 1870 Charles S. Ford, Thomas C. Clapp, October JO 1871 ' Jesse F. Warner, April 15J; 1872 X Jesse F. Warner, Samuel A. Combs, January 9t 1873 Martin S. Mansfield, April TJ 1874 A. G. Manchester, October 13 1874 John R. Sprague, John Smith, Jr., October 7 , 1876 Martin S. Mansfield, John R. Sprague, November 6 1877V Henry Loomis, Martin S. Mansfield, November 4 1879 Henry Loomis, Martin S. Mansfield, November 8 1881 John B. Rockwell, November 7 1883 John H. H. Covell, Martin S. Mansfield, November 6.. . . 1883 M. N. f'urdy, John D. Welker, November 3 1885 y L. M. Warner, .(osepli Smith, November 2 1886 John R. Sprague, John D. Welker, November 8 1887 Henry Loomis, April IJ: 1889 John H. B. Covell, Henry Loomis, November 5^ 1889 L. M. Warner, March 17J 189] M. S. Mansfield, Seth Barnes, November 3 1891 tCalled Omaha Creek Precinct until April 18, 1863. JAppointed by County Commissioners. Illenry Loomis resigned March 9, 1891. JUSTICES OP THE PEACE— DAKOTA PRECINCT. .Samuel Smith t 1 856 Jesse Wigle, July 6t 1857 ■George A. Hinsdale, October 5t 1857 ■ W. U.S. Hughes, iJimon LeWitt, October 11 1859 J. D. M. Crockwell, January 2J.. 1866 "William H. James, April 2J 1860 /Barnabas Bates, May 21 186(.i iJ^aniel McLaughlin, January 21 J..- -•-- ■ ■ ^^ ■ ■■ 1-86J 136 Alfred Elam, Augustus Haase, October 8 1861 >^ G. K. Mason, October 17t 1861 Harnatias Bates, Uriton Willis, October 14 1803 Samuel Whitehorn, October 13 1863 James Kitson, April 2X 1866 Simon UeWitt, Joseph Hradbrary, October 9' 1886; .^ Samuel Whitehorn, October 8 186T >^ J'eter Mikesell, David Hoals, October 13 1868 David Koals. (Jctober 13 1868 Alexander H . Baker, Octobsr 1 1 1870 Alexander H. liaker, M. Finkerton^ October 10 1871 Samuel I. Hart, October 14 187a JX, E. A. Benedict, October 13 1874 W. H. lioals, John T. Spencer, October 13 1875 Samuel Whitehorn, John T. Spencer, Novembers.. . 1877 W. f I. Boals, Novembers 1878 W. H. Koals, James L. Mitchell, November 4 \ii19 X W. IJ. Hoals, November 8 1881 ' John Manning, F. A. Robinson, November 6. 1883 W. H. Boals,W. I. Broyhill, November 4 1884 y H. D Rogers, Fred Heerman, November 3 1885- y\ Marcell Jay, June 41 1887 Marcell Jay, John Joyce, November 8 188T William Cheney, November 6 188** .lahn Naffziger, W. R. ifinkead. November 5> 1889' .lohn Naffeiger, I>. C. Stinson, November 3 1892 tResigned July 6, 1857. t Appointed by County Cbmmissioners. .rUSTICE3 OF THE PEACE— ST. JOHN'S PRECINCT. John Clark, October 14t 185T Thomas B. Coleman^ August 3 ^ 1867^ Edward Arnold, October 20t, 185r .)ohn McGinn, (Jerald Dillon. October 11 1859* John McGinn, James Hums, October 8 1861 John Dennison. October 14 > 1862: John Dennison, October 13 ., 1863; .)ohu Heflernon, Jr., April 26ti 1864- James Burns, John Dennison, October 1865. John H. Maun, May 23t 1868! Gerald Dillon, October 13 1868-' .lames Clark, October 12 _ 1899» John Heffernon, J. Uoherty, October 11 ^. . 187(!i John Heffernon, Michael Kennelly, October 10 ]871i Michael Kennelly, October 14 1873: P. U . lioyle, October 13 1874- J.ohn M Davy ,1'.. II. Boyle,, October 12^ .,. . . 1876* A PEECINCT OFFICERS. 137 Michael Keimelly, October 7 1876 P. FI. l5oyle, William Hedges, I^ovember 6 1877 John Rooney, P. H. Boyle, November 4 1873 John Rooney, Daniel C. Heffernon, November 8 1881 Edward Ryan, Daniel C. Heffernon, November 6 1883 Michael Kennelly, D. H. "Woods, November 4 1884 James B. Eby, Daniel C. Heffernon, Novembers. 1885 Gerald Dillon, William A. Nead, November 8 1887 Michael Kennelly. July 7t , 1888 Michael Kennelly, November 6 , *. . . . 1B88 William '". Bartlett.A pril lOf , 1889 Michael Kennelly, William T. Bartlett, November 5 1889 Michael Kennelly, William T. Uartlett, November 3.. . 1891 tA.ppointed by County Commissioners. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE— COVINGTON PRECINCT - •Charles D. Martin, June 13t 1859 William W. Seaton, Alex McCartney, October 11.,.. 1859 James Stott, Patrick Dorsey, October 8 1861 James Stott, October 18 1863 Thomas Barrett, October 10 1864 Fred L. Clark, October 9 1866 Fred L. Clark, October 8... 1867 Oeorge E. Ironsides, John Cavajiaugh, October 13^ 1868 freorge E, Ironsides, October 12 ^ .^ 1869 J. H. Northup, October 11 1870 A. G. Manchester, J. Li. Johnson, October 10..,^ 1871 George E. Ironsides, lanuary 9t 1872 W. R. Bowman, July It 1873 L. M. Hubbard, October 14J , 1873 E. E. Parker, January 7t 1874 E. E. Parker, Isaac Powers, Sr., October 13 1874 E. E. Parker, George E. Ironsides, October 13 1875 E. E. Parker, E. K. Webb, November 6 1877 iC . Irwim. November 4 1879 E. B. Parker. November 8 ...1881 John A. Williams, November 8 1881 James Slagle, February l€t ■ - -. ^ ■ ■ 1883 M. b'ague, John A, Williams, November 6 ,. 1883 James Slagle, C. Irwin. November 4 1884 John A. VV^illiams, November 3 ,. . 1885 James Slagle, January 13t ■-•••• 1886 John A. Williams, November 3 1886 John A. Williams, C. Irwin, November 8 ... 1887 ■W. H. Ammerman, Charles Brannaman, November 5?. 1889 John A. Williams, September Sf. 1890 John A. Williams. NovBmber 4.,., ......... .. , — 18.90 138 waknee's history of Dakota conNTY. N..). McGoflfin, John Jenkins, Novemlvr 3 1891 Thomas J, King, Novembers 1892 t Appointed by County Commissioners. ^.Resigned January 6, 1874. ICharles Brannaman resigned September 3, 1 890. JUSTICES OP THE PEACE— PTGEON CREEK PEECINCT. Jolm G. Hibbs, October 14 187a Robert Campbell, C)ctober t3 1874 Roljert Campbell. October 12 1875 .James L. Mitchell, October 13 187.5 Robert Campbell, November 6 1877 James Knox, November 6 187T James Knox, Robert Campbell, November 4 1879i Robert Campbell, November 8 1881 James Knox, November 8 1881 iVrthur Campbell, November 6 1883 .1 ames Knox . Nqvemher 4 ... 1884 William Farrell, November 4* 1884 William A . Nead, November 3 188S A. A. Hurber, November 3 1886. William Farrell, November 2* 1886 James Knox, November 2 ■ 1886. Robert Campbell, January llf 1887 •A . H . Surber, November 8 1887 James Knox, November 8 ] 887 A . H . Surber, November 5 1889i J. I(» McAfee, November 1889 James Knox, January 13t 1891 J. H. McAfee. John Sierk, November 3 1891 *Kailed to qualify. tAppointed by County Commissioners. .lUS'L'ICES OF THE PEACE— SUMMU PKECINCT. I'erry Clark, November 6 1877" Feter McShane, November 6 18T7" Frank Tappan, November 4 1879;: Peter McShane, November 4... 1879' Feter McShane. November 8 1881 John Denuison, ^November 6 1883. I'eter Rush, November 4 .- 1884 Dennis Beacom. November 4 1884 Feter McShane, November 3 " 188&. John Dennison, November 3 1885, Feter Rush, November 8 '."".' i887; PRECINCT OFJICEES. 139 I awrence Smith, November 8 1887 '1 . McShane, November 5 1889 I 'atrick Casey, November 5 1889 Perry Clark. November 3 1891 .JJ.sriCES OF THE PEACE— MOUND, OR PENDER, PRKCINCT.* •lohn G. Arthur. July 25t 1884 •Jerry Potter, July 25t 1884 i-ieorge F. Chittendon, Peter Sharp, November 2 1886 (ieorge F. Chittendon, November 8 1887 .1 . G. Downs, November 8 1887 * Pender Precinct was organized into Thurslfon county in 1888. t Appointed by County Commissioners. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE— HUBBARD PRECINCT. Thomas Jones, November 6 1883 Peter Henry, November 4 1884 J. T. Leedom, November 4 1884 John Rooney . November 3 1885 John C. Smith, November 3 1885 John Rooney, November 8 1887 H. D. Rockwell, November 8 1887 John Rooney, November 6 1888 John Rooney, November 5 1889 John Rooney, L. H. Smith, November 3 , 1891 JUSTICES OP THE PEACE— EMERSON PRECINCT. Arthur Campbell, November 4 1884 Nelson Feauto, November 4 1884 Jesse Wigle, November 3 1885 Patrick H. Boyle, November 3 1886 U iUiam Lippold, November 8 1887 Robert Campbell . November 8 1887 Nelson Feauto, November 6 1888 1 . J . Fuller, November 5 1889 Fred Rlume, November 5 1889 Robert Campbell. March 18* 1890 Nelson Feauto, flenry Stahl. November 3 1891 I?obert Campbell, April 8t 1892 * Appointed by County Commissioners, t Appointed by Board of Supervisors. 140 WAENEe's HISTOKY of DAKOTA COUisTTY. COUNTY ASSESSORS. James Stott, January 2* 1865 Gerald Dillon, October 9 1866 Daniel Duggan, October 8 1867 Simon DeWitt, October 13 1868 Peter Myers, October 12 1869 William Weston, October 11 1870 William H. Clapp, October lO 1871 Charles S. Ford, October 8 1873 Michael Beacom, October 14 1873 William Holswcrth, October 13 1874 Michael M. Beacom, October 10 1875 * Appointed by County Commissioners. ASSESSORS— OMADI PRECINCT. Jacob 11. Hallock, January 21* 1861 Michael Kennelly, October 8 1861 Thomas Ashford, March 14* 1863 Thomas Ashford. October 13 1863 Thomas Ashford, October lOt 1864 William Holsworth, October 7 1876 M arion Hoffman, November 6 1877 Walter W. Beardshere, November 5 1878 Charles H. Potter, November 4 1879 Charles H. Potter. November 2 1880 William Holsworth, November 8 1881 J. H. Rockwell, November 71 1882 William Holsworth, Noveihber 6 1883 Timothy J. O'Connor, November 4 1884 John H . B. Covell, November 3 1885 John H. B. Covell; November 2 1886 Charles S. Ford, November 8 1887 D; L. Allen, November 6t 1888 Charles S. Ford, April 10* 1889 Samuel Heikes, November 5 1889 George C. Bille, November 4 1890 George C. Bille, November 3 1891 J. P. Rockwell, November 8 1892 *Appointed by County Commissioners. tFor eleven years after this Assessors were elected by the county. J Failed to qualify. fRECINCT OFFICERS. 141 ASSESSORS— DAKOTA PRECINCT. Alex McCready, January 31* 1861 John McQuilkin . October 8 1861 Herman loveinber 3 , 1891 ASSBSSOES-^MOUND. OR PENDER VRECINCT.f Andrew Ingle, J^'ovember 2 1886 ^aron Young, November 8 . , 1887 William Myers, November 6 1888 tSince attach,ed tx* Thurston, county. COUNTY VOTE FOR PRESIDENTS. 6 > 141 144 104 215 476 263 386 328 458 476 895 706 171 406 604 Horatio Seymour, D., November 3, 1868 U. S. Grant, B., Novembers, 1868. Horaoe (^reelev. D.. November 5. 1873 s U. S Grant, B., November 5, 1872 111 Samuel J. Tilden, P., November 7, 1876 913 Butherford b. Hayes, E., November 7, 1876 Winiield 8. Hancock, D., Novembers, 1880 James A. Garceld, E., November 2, 1880 Grover Cleveland, P., November 4, 1884 5& James G. Blaine, E., November 4, 1884 Grover Cleveland, 1)., November 6, 1888 Benjamin Harrison, B., November 6, 1888 Grover Cleveland, P., November 8, 18'93., Benjamin Harrison, B., November 8, 1893 J. B. Weaver, lnd.„ November 8, 1892 18. 188i 38, MEMBERS OF THE TERRITORIAL. L EGISLATURE, Samuel Watts, Dakota county, i srd ■ 1st session, June 2. . 1866 Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court 5 James Preston, Dak. county ) Henry Morton (float), Dak., > 3d, 3d, 4th sessions, Ost. 9 1866 Dixon, Cedar, L'Eau Qui ) John Nafiziger, Daliota county, 5th, 6th, 7th sessions OctoberlS 1868 James Clark, Dakota county, 8th session, October 11 1870 R. £1. Wilbur, Dakota and Dixon counties, 9th and 10th sessions, Qctober 8 1873 Benjamin F. Chambers, Dakota county, 11th, 13th., 13th sessions, October 13 1874 John C. Hefifernon, Dakota county, 14th sessson, 16th district, (.)ctober 7 . 1876 Jesse P. \yarner, Dakota county, 15th session, 16th dis- trict, November 5. . .^ . ,. ,....,.. 1878 Joseph HoUman, Dakota county, 16th, 17th sessions, 16th district, November 3 , 1880 Joseph Hollmau, Dakota county. 18th session, Nov. 1 ... 1883 William Holsworth, Dak. county, 19th session, iTov. 4. . 1884 Harlon Baird, i:)ak0ta county, 30th session. Nov. 3. . ., .. 1886 V. F. CSullivan, Dak. and Cuming counties, 21st ses- sion, 16th district, November 6. ., , 1888 John M. Moan, Dak., Thurston and Cuming counties, 23d session, 16th district, November 4 , 1890 E. Kloke, Dak ,, Thurston and Cuming counties, 2Sd session, 16th district, November 8 1892 MEMBERS OF THE TERRITORIAL COUNCIL. .alfred W..ruett, Dakota county, 3d session, Nov.,...,. . . 18^^ 146 waeneb's histoky of uakota county. Alfred W. Puett, Dakota county, 4th session, Aug. 8. 1857 Wni. U. Crawford, Dak. county, 5th session, Aug. 2 1858 Thos. T. Collier, Dak. county, 6th session, October 11.. . 1859 John Taffe, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 7th session, October 10 1860 John Taffe, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 8th session, October 8 1861 A. H. Jackson, Dak. Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 9th session, October 13 186a Thos. L. Griffey, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 10th session, 1st district, October 10 1864 Thos. L. Griffey, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 11th session, 1st district, October 1866 Barnabas Hates, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 13th session, 1st district, October 9 1866 STATE SENATORS. Nathan S. I'orter, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 1st session, June 2 1866. Uarlon Baird, Dak., Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 2d, 3d, 4th sessions, 1st district, October 9 1866 Nathan S. Porter, Dakota, Dixon, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 6th, 6th, 7tli sessions, 1st district, October 13... 1868 A. W. Tennant, IXak., Stanton, Cuming, Dodge, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 8th session, 10th dist., Oct. 11... 187G Jas. C. Crawford, Dak., Stanton, Cuming, Dodge, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 9th, 10th sessions., 10th district, October 8 1872. Alex. Bear, Dak., Stanton, Cuming, Dodge, Cedar and L'Eau Qui Court, 11th, 12th sessions, 10th district, October 13 1874 Isaac Powers, Dakota and burt counties, 13th, 14th ses- sions, 10th district, October " 1876 W. B. iJeck, Dakota and Burt counties, 15th session, 10th district, November 5 1878 Isaac Powers, Dak. and Burt counties, 16th, 17th ses- sions, 10th district, November 3 188t> W. P. Norris, Dak., Dixon, Cedar, Knox, 18th session, 11th district, November 7 1882- John T. Spencer, Dak., Dixon, Cedar, Knox, 19th ses- sion, nth district, November 4 ^ 1884 H. E. Bonesteel, Dak., Dixon, Cedar, Knox, 2Uth session, 11th district, November 2 1886. I. C. Robinson, Dak , Dixon, Cedar, Thurston, Knox, 21st session, 8th district, November 6 1888. a. P. Shumway, Dak., Dixon, Cedar, Thurston, Knox, 23d session, 8th district, November 4 1890' B. P. McDonald, Dak., Dixon, Cedar, Thurston, Knox, 23d session, 8th district, November 8 1892: CHAPTER XV, Special Officks.— Census Endmeeators.— Othes Elections.— District Court Jupges.— Organiz- iNG THE Precincts, SPECIAL OFFICES. County Physicians, — Feb. 15, 1889, county Com- anissioners appointed Dr. J. H. Brewer to this office for 1889, resigned Sejjt, 10, 1889, and Dr. R. G. Hamilton was appointed to fill the unexpired term. Special County Attorneys. — March 14, 1863, A H. Jackson was appointed bj the county Commission- ■ers as an attorney to examine the county Treasurer's ■books. From time to time others have been appointed for special purposes, among whom were: Thomas L. -Griffey, John T. Spencer, Mfill C. Jay, Isaac Powers .and J. B. Barnes. Special County Commissioners.^ — Nov. 7th, 1864., the Territorial Legit^lature appointed Thomas L. Griffey, ■Gerald Dillon and Henry Ream a^ special commission- •ers to ascertain the indebtedness of Dakota county,which Dhey found to be $7,205.71. April 19th, 1S65, Thomas L. Griffey was ap- pointed to index the county records. In 1873 the county commissioners appointed J. G. Ogden, Daniel Duggan and A. McCready as a board to jnveati^ate the inde.b.tednfiss of .the county,. 148 WAiiNKE'S HISTORY OF DAKOTA COUKTY. Kelly W. Frazer was appointed Deputy Clerk of the District Court, November 13, 18&U, and re-ap- pointed each year since. Alex Abell Mas appointed May 9, 1893, by the board of supervisors as civil engineer to establisli a ditch from pigeon creek to the "swamp ditch,'' as pe- titioned for by Benjamin Bridenhaugh and others. CENSUS ENUMERATORS. In 1859 El bridge G. Lampson was appointed to take the census of Dakota councy. but died before lie had completed the work. James W". Virtue and others tinished it. Daniel Duggan was appointed to this office May 3, 1869, and Charles H. Potter for 1880. Owing to some irregularities in the Nebraska cen- sus for 1880, enumerators were appointed in each pre- cinct to rectify the mistake. The enumerators for 1890 werei Dakota precinct, Mrs. Mary R. McBeatli; Oiriadi,. A. P. Bach^ Coving- ton, W. il. Mitchell; St. Johns, Norman C. Brewer; Hubbard, R. D. Rockwell; Summit, Kate C. Duggan; Pigeon Greek,. Wm. T. Bartloit; Emer30.n, Nelson, Feauto^ OTHEJJ ELECTIONS. August 2,, 1857, general election on removal of county seit.— St. Johas received 263, Dakota City 260, Covington 42, Logan 2. an.d Ponca 2. votes. Tiiere; not being tlie required taajonty far removal the county seat remained at Dakata City. Mu'jh 5., 186J, sp.icjal e-lectioii oa state goveni.inent.- — Tiie vote stood 21 for and I8i .against. The meas- ure wxi defd.Ued in tJie territo-ry by 2,37.2. far ta 2,094 against it. Jane 2, 18S&^ special election to- vote on the; adoption of the lirst state constitutian. — The vote stood. 106 for and ,32 against. Tlie territorial vote was. 3v93S, for and %SiS against the constLtation,, whLcla OTHEK ELECTIONS. 149 was adopted by 100 majority, and Kebrasia was ad- mitted into the Union March 1, 1867. September 9, 1871, special election to vote on proposed new state constitution.. — The vote stood 11 for and 297 against. Total vote in the state w-as 7,986 for and 8,627 against the constitution, whidi was de- feated. October 12, 1875, general election, at which tiiue tlie present state constitution was adopted by a vote of 30,202 to 5,474. The county vote was 262 for and 35 against. Isaac Powers was Dakota county's mem bej- to the constitutional <;onvention, having be€n elected at a special election, April 6, 1875, receiving 118 votes and his opponent^ Samuel Whitohorn, 46 votes; scat- tering, 18. November 7, 1882, general election.- — For womajj suffrage amendment to constitution, 304; against 3,25, The amendment was defeated in tho state. At the same election there were 319 votes for bounty on wolves, etc., and 162 against. For township organiza- tion, 324; against, 268. During the campaign, Susan B. Anthony spoke to a large audienco at Dakota City on "Woman's Suffrage," October ,30, 187:2; also a,t Homer and jQrove chuich, on Fiddler's creek,, the following day. At the g«n-er.al election, I^ovemher 4, 1890, the d 29 intersects the Missouri river; thence west to guide meridian; thence north to old state boundary line to the Missouri; thence up main channel to line between Sections 33 and 34,. Township 29, Range 8; thence south to the southwest corner of Section 22, Township 28, Range 8; thence- east to the Missouri; thence up tnain channel to place- of commencement, Covington Precinct. — Beginning at the northeast, corner of Dakota precinct; thence up main channel of river to old state boundary line, in middle of Crystal lake; thence along said line to guide meridian; thence- south to line between Townships 28 and 29; thence^ east to place of commencement. Omadi Precinct. — Beginning at tlie southwest: ORGA.NIZENG TIIE PKECINCTS. 151 cornel" ot Dakota precinct; tlience west to the north- west corner of Section 27, Township 28, Range 8; thence south to the northwest corner of Section 10, Township 27, Kange 8; thence west to northwest cor- ner of Saction 8; thence south to northwest corner of Section 17; thence west to northwest corner of Sec- tion 15, Township 27, Range 7; thence south to south- west corner of Section 15; thence south to the Winne- bago reserve; thence east to Missouri river; thence up main channel to place of commencement. St. Johns Precinct. — Beginning at the northwest corner of DalvOta pi-ecinot; thence up main channel of the Missouri to middle line of Section 9, Township 29, Range 7; thence south to line between Townships 28 and 29; thence west to northwest corner of Section 5, Township 28, Range 7; thence south to southwest cor- ner of Section 5; tlience east to the southeast corner of Section 4, Township 28> Range 8; thence north to place of commencement. Snnamit Precinct. — Beginningr at the northwest corner of St. Johns precinct; thence up main channel olF the Missouri to line between Townships 29 and 30; thence west to northwest corner of county; thence south to southwest corner of Section 34, Township 29, Rano-e 6; thence east to middle line of Section 33, Township 29, Range 7; thence north to place of com- niencement. Hubbard Precinct. — Beginning at the northeast corner of Section 9, Township 28) Range 8; thence west to northwest corner of Section 8, Township 28) Range 7; thence south to southwest corner of Section 32; tlience east to southeast corner of said section; thence south to southwest corner of Section 9, Town ship 27, Range 7; thence east to southeast corner of Section 12; thence north to northeast corner of said section; thence east to the southeast 3orner of Section 4, Townsliip 27, Range 8; thence north to place of com- mencement. 152 waenee's history of Dakota county. Pigeon Creek Precinct. — Beginning at the nortli- east corner of Section 6, Township 28, Range?; thence west to countv line; thence south to southwest corner of Section 34, Township 28; Range 6; thence east to southeast corner of Section 31, Township 28) Range 7; thence north to place of commencement. Emerson Precinct. — Beginning at tlie northeast corner of Section 5, Township 27, Range 7; thence west to county Jine; thence south to Winnebago re- serve; thence east to line between Secti(ms 34 and 35, Township 27, Range 7; thence north to northeast cor- ner of Section 22; thence west to northwest corner of said section; thence north to northeast c.»rner of Sec- tion 16; thence west to the northwest corner of said section; thence north to place of commencement. I^ovember 18, 1891, the Board of Supervisors changed precincts as follows: Dakota precinct is enlarged as follows: To take in all of Sections 25, 26, 27, in Township 28, Range 8, east, and Sections 29 and 30, in Township 28, Range 9, east. Covington precinct to be enlarged as follows: To take in all land north of the 7th standard parallel, and bounded as follows: Commencing at the southeast corner of Section 36, Township 29, Range 8, east; thence west to the southwest corner of Section 34; thence north to the Missouri river; thence following the Missoui-i river to the southeast corner of Section 84, Township 29. Range 9, east; thence west to place of commencement. At that time the supervisors numbered the pre- cincts as follows: Covington, No. 1; St. Johns, No. 2; Summit, No. 3; Dakota, No. 4; Hubbard, No. 5; Pigeon Creek, No. 6; Omadi, No. 7; Emerson, No. 8. CHAPTER XVI. Public Cemeteries — Public Libkaeies — Holidays — "Bottom Disease" — Lost STEi^MEE Nugget — Base Ball — Gamp Meetings — Beegee Pooe Fa em — Sol- DiEEs' Kelief Commission — Bbass Bands. PUBLIC CEMETEEIK8. The first cemetery in the county was the old Ornadi cemetery, situated on a sand ridge south of A. H. Baker's farm and east of where Gustave Berger lives, in Section 30. Henrietta Hirsch, a daughter of Mrs, Henry Beam was the first person buried here. St. Johns cemetery is situated two miles north of Jackson, on the east line of Section 23, Township 29, Range 7. Dakota City cemetery is situated within the corporate limits of that town, on its northern boundary. The first to be buried here were Mrs. Charles Reom and child, L. G. Packard and a child of Geo. A. Hins- dale, in 1857. The cemetery at present is enclosed with a good substantial fence, and otherwise in first class- condition. The Taylor cemetery is situated in the northeast quarter of the northwest quarter of Sec. 34, Township 28, Range 8, near Wm. Taylor's house, eight miles southwest of Dakota City, on the high bluffs, con- taining three acres, and deeded to the Salem Evan- gelical Lutheran church by William Taylor. The first 154 ■WAEKEe's HISTOPT of rAICTA COrKTY. buried there was a cliild of William Gribble, in the winter of 1856. The Omaha Creek Valley cemetery, formerly known as the Potter cemetery, is situated near the northwest corner of Section 25, Township 27, Eange 8, two miles south of Homer. Grove cemetery is located in the southeast corner of the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 14, Township 27, Eange 7, on fiddler's creek. The following officers were elected by the association, May 10, 1898, for a period of two years: H. F. Sliull, treasurer; C. M. Antrin), Eobert Gurnsey, Geo. San- ford, John Welker and Fred Wilkins, trustees. St, Mary's cemetery lies less than a mile to the northwest of Homer, and was established in 18S9. The Hubbard cemetery is situated on the high hills a short distance south of the town of Hubbard, and was deeded to the association by John Howard. The first person buried there was James Thornton, who died on his farm west of Hubbard. Green Valley cemetery, or Johnson's cemetery as it was formerly called, is situated on Wigle creek near the Johnson school house. PUBLIC LIBEAKIES. There are a number of private libraries in the county, but as yet, there are no public libiaries, al- though three attempts have been made in that dir«?c- tion, which have entirely failed. In 1878 L. M. War- ner established the "Dakota County Library" in Omadi precinct, several hundred volumes being con- nected with the institution. In 1880 another attempt was made at Dakota City. A meeting was called for the purpose of organ- izing a "Library Association," October 5, and Eev. H. Wilson elected president; M. M. Warner, vice presi- dent; Will S. Jay, secretary, and Mrs. M. O. Ayres, treasurer. PDBLIC LIBE^EIES HOLIDAYS. 155 Rev. J. Zimmerman endeavored to create a public library at Dakota City in 1884, but all that remains of it at present- is a few books at Dr. Stinson's store. There was also a "Circulating Library" partially established at Dakota City in 1888, but it is not in the nature of a permanent institution. HOLIDAYS. Fourth of July. — The first attempt at celebrating onr nation's birthday was July 4, 1855, when a party of men came across the river from Sergeants Blutf and planted the stars and stripes upon the subsequent site of old Uinadi, little apprehendm^' that in less than six years from that date several of their number would be marshaling in defense of that same-noble flag. The first regular Fourth of July celebration in Dakota county was held in 1857, at Logan, in the old liouse that Col. Baird afterwards moved to his farm for a residence. J. F. Warner read the Declaration of In- dependence, and William G. Crawford delivered an oration that fired the hearts of the pioneers with patriot- ism and devotion to their country, as svas demonstrated when the great war cloud burst upon the land, A grand ball was held in the evening. In 1873, the I'atrons of Husbandry organized sev- eral "Granges" in Dakota county, and that year held a great celebration at Baird's grove, at which time they wore their sashes and uniforms. Speeches were made by J. F. Warner, D. C. Dibble, J. W. Davis and John NafFziger. Other enthusiastic celebrations have from year to year taken place at Dillon's grove, in Jackson; Ashford's grove, Baird's grove, Shulls' grove and Ha- ger's grove, and Clinton park^ — the two latter situated near Dakota City. Memorial Day. — Which occurs on the 30th of May of each year, has been duly observed in Dakota county fcince the holiday was established. The graves of our <3€ad heroes are ami.uaJlv strewn with the choi^estflow- 156 WAENEK's HI£T0ET of DAKOTA COUNTY. ers, as a fitting tribute in ooniinenioration of tbeir heroic services in our country's darkest hour. One of the most successful observances of this day was at the Dakota City Cemetery, May 30, 1884, conducted by the Crittenden Grand Army Post, with Eev. Carter chaplain; Col. J. F. Warner, commander; W. R. Kiu- kead, corporal, and Frank H. Ayres, adjutant. One thousand people witnessed the ceremonies, and Mrs. Kelly W. Frazer read a beautiful poem entitled "The Nation's iDead,'' of which the following is the first verse: Four hundred thousand men— The brave, the good, the true — In tangled wood, in mountain glen, On battle plain, in prison pen, Lie dead for me and you ! Four hundred thousand of the brave Have made our ransomed soil their grave For me and you I Good friend, for me and you! The Following original poem, composed by Mrs, Lucy Bullock, was recited in a manner that would have done credit to an elocutionist by Nora Miller, a bright little 10-year-old girl, whose elocutionary power is marvelous: DECOKATION DAY. Adown the sunny, dusty street A little child was trudging on; One dimpled hand a banner grasped. The other filled with lilac bloom. "Oh, why such haste with flag and bloom, A crowd is coming little lass. With banners waving, drums abeat— Stay here with me and let them pass." "Oh. no," she cried, "my flowers may fade; I must be there before they come: On papa's grave this flag I'll place. And then 111 wait 'till they are done." Oh, Soldier's child! thy tender heart For father's sake the honor craves; HOLIDAYS. 157 Assured that others bearing bloom Will decorate anew his grave. Wave, flag of freedom I Well thy folds were borne along to victory's heights, By heroes brave whose graves to-day We decorate with stars and stripes. The years have passed, that flag still waves, A symbol grand, since slaves are free; And Liberty enthroned yet guards O'er all the land from sea to sea. For long ago in springtime fair. Beneath that flag they marched away: Undaunted hearts to fight for right They bore their part in freedom's fray. Oh, Decoration Day so fair! With buds and blossoms for each tomb. Oh! day of days, thy sunshine bright Bathes every mound, dispels the gloom. Anew we gather where they lie. Each soldier's grave is marked the same— One silent band where rank is naught. Their names are green in memory's chain. Brave Colonel Warner— rest! That flag shall wave o'er all the boys who wore the blue; Till roll-call answered one by one They join with you the last review. Arbor Day. — This is a day set aside for planting trees, originated by Hon. J. Sterling Morton, of JSe- braska, in 1873, and afterward ' designated as a legal holiday by the Legislature, and the time fixed was April 22, of each year. The day has been generally observed in. Dakota county, and has greatly enconraged tree planting. On Arbor Day in 1889 the Dakota City schools planted an evergreen tree in memory of their departed teacher, Julia O'Connor. BOTTOM DISEASE. In 1857 Alfred Elani lost a horse, which died of some strange disease,and from that time on the farmers ] 58 Warner's history of Dakota county. on the Missouri bottom lost many valuable horses, when the disease became generally known as the 'Bottom Disease.-' The cause' of this wliolesale destruction of horses could not be ascertained, some attributing it to iron in the water, and various other theories were ad- vanced. It was discovered that mules were not subject to the disease, and all the. farmers procured these ani- mals to work on their farms. After a lapse of more than thirty years of the ravage of this disease, Dr. G. W. Wilkinson discovered tiie true cause, which was from eating the "rattlebo.^," a plant which grows in the grass on the bottom, and bears a small pod contain- ing the poisonous seeds which destroys the horses, when it is fed to them with the hay. The farmers are now keeping horses by feeding them straw fodder and hay which ;s cut before the rattlebox has matured. LOST STEAMER NUGGET. On January 1, 1871, Henry Ream and his sons, Charles and Mareeilus, George Shiebley and Charley Martin discovered on a sandbar the wreck of the lost steamer, JNugget, wiiich sank in the Missouri river about five years before, at, a point two miles up the river from the month of Omaha creek. A company was formed and considerable property taken from the wreck, such as flour, meat, whisky, spades, shovels, and other tools. The "wrecking company" was composed of the following members: George T. Woods, Plarlon Baird, Gideon Warner, Henry and M. M. Ream, John G. Ogden, Charley Martin, G^org-e Shiebley, George Bayha, Andrew Forbs, James Willis, Britton Willis and Charley Reairi. Charley Martin had the misfor- tune to contract a severe sj^ell of sickness from expos- ure to the cold while woi-kmg at the boat, which re- sulted in his loss of hearing and speech. BASE BALL. The first base ball club in, the co-unty was orgaiL- BASE BALL CAMP MEETINGS. 159 ized at Dakota City July 16, 1870. by electing John G. Oo;den president, J. P. Bayha vice president, J. A. Mikesell secretary, Joliti Mitchell treasurer, William Adair iiiiipire, M. 0. Ayres, David B=).!es and P. F. O'Suilivan board of directors. For years this cluU was recusjdized as being one oi: the very best in northeast- ern Nebraska, Marcellns Ream acting as pitcher from its organization to the present time. Other clubs have since been organized at Homer, Jackson, Brushy Bend and South Sioux City, and many are the exciting games which have been played by these clubs. CAMP MEETINGS. Rev. S. P. \^andoozer, a Methodist minister, in- augurated the first camp meeting in the county, be- ginning at Col. Baird's place on September 7, 1870, and lasting about one week, conducted by Presiding Elder A. G. White, Rev. S. P. Vandoozer. Rev. J. A. Smith, Rev. Mr. Easterbrook, Rev. John Trineand and Rev. Moses Warner. The meetings were largely at- tended, and the ministers were much encouraged by the result. The following year another enthusiastic camp meeting was held on Col. Warner's place, nine miles south of Dakota City, and continued two weeks, end- ing September 18, 1871. Great religious excitement prt^vailed, and on Sunday more than 1,0C0 people as- sembled "iteneath the groves, God's first temples," and made the hills and woods resound with their songs of rejoicing. Many people brought a good supply ot tents and household effects and lived on the meeting grounds. Restaurants and eating houses were also es- tablished. BERGER POOR FARM. For a number of years the project of establishing a poor farm for Dakota county was agitated, but noth- ing was done until Gotleib Berger died in Sioux City, ] 60 WAENEr's history of DAKOTA OOUNTY. Iowa, February 8, 1890, bequeathing to the -county 15,000 with which to provide for the poor. On tlie 17th day of October, 1891, the county commissioners bought with this money, of J. P. Twohig, the north lialf of the northeast quarter of Section 25, Township 28, Range 8> for the sum of $3,600, to be known as the "Berger Poor Farm." Dennis Armour,Thomas 0. Clapp and Thorns Sullivan, Jr ,, were appointed as trustees. W. T. Bartlett was appointed as overseer of county poor March 9, 1891. March 15, 1892, W. P. Altemus and J. N. Peyson were appointed to draw up plans and speoilications for a poor farm house, not to exceed $1,400, and tlie con- tract was let April 8t to T. F. xVicGee, of Hubbard, for 11,297.50, who accordingly erected the building. SOLDIERS" RELIEF COMMISSION. In 1889 the Nebraska State Legislature established a "soldiers' relief fund" for each county of the state for the benefit of indigent Union soldiers, sailors and marines, and indigent wives, widows, and minor child- ren, not over fourteen years of age in the case of boys, and not over sixteen years of age in the case of girls, of such indigent or deceased Union soldiers, sailors or marines having a legal residence in said county. A '■soldiers' relief commission," to manage the distribn- tion of the fuuda was appointed by the ci/unty commis- sioners, consisting oE S. R. Cavvles, John Blessincr and Henry Loomis. since which time others have served on the board as follows: W. R, Kinkead, April 6, 1891, to succeed Henry Loomis. wtio resigned; H. Sayre and Andrew Forbs, March 15, 1892. On January 24th. 1893, the present board or commission was reorganized by appointing Andrew Forbs for a period of three years; A. H. Baker, two years, and Harlon Baird one year. The establishment of- this relief fund is truly a noble act on the part of our state legislature, in recog- nition of the heroic services of brave Uniaa soldiers URASS BANDS. 161 who rallied in defense of this nation in the darkest hours of its existence, and marched with dauntless conrage to southern fields of war, snatched the flag ot treason from its height and subdued a rebellious and arrogant people. The unflinching courage and heroic deeds of those daring njen in their struggle for liberty and union will ever mark the standard of loyalty and be the gauge of patriotism until the government of the United States of America shall be no znore. BiJASS BANDS. The Smith Band of years ago, which was the first ever organized in the county, consisted of Uncle Johnny Smith and three sons, Joseph, George and John, and Joseph and Herb Harris. It was tlie 4th of July 1862, and they were to furnish the music for the celebration held that day in the Cottonwood grove south of Dakota City. The "band wagon" with the pioneer musicians arrived at Dakota City bright and early, with the stars and stripes floating in the breeze above them. They joined the procession as it inarched . to the ground, but the man who held the large flag could not keep it steady against the strong wind that was blowing that day, and consequently the emblem ot the brave and free was oft times trailed in the dust, — whereupon Isaac Monroe jumped up and declared that he could *'by the help of the Almighty hold that flag and three fence rails!" and he did hold the flag pole with his powerful arms as firm and steady as though it had been bolted to the wagon. The president of the day CHlled out: ''Music by the band!" and they struck up in tine shape. Geo. Smith led with the E clarionet, followed by Jolm with the B clarionet. Uncle Jolinny tuned in with the bass, Joseph Smith gripped the trombone, Herb and Joseph Harris chimed in with their horns, all bright as bright coiild be, and made thojie old woods ring to the anthem of th 162 wabnee's history on dakota county. free. Then everybody sang "Away down South in the Land of Dixie," ate a good dinner, for those dis- tant days, and went home happy. Tliere was no other attempt at organizing a band for a nninber of years after this, and the Smitli band held full sway in Dakota county's "musical world.'' Bands have since been organized at Dakota City, Jackson, Homer, Emerson and South Sionx City. Tlie Dakota City Cornet band consists of the folluwing mem- bers: Mell A. Schmeid, leader and instructor,- 1st B flat; C. P. Brannamau, solo B flat; D. W. Griffey, pic- colo; Geo. W. McBeath, 2nd B flat; Wm. Learner, 3rd B flat; Elmer Robinson, 1st alto; Geo. H. Haate, 1st tenor; R. E. Evans, baritone; Paul Pizey, B flat bass; Henry Niebuhr, E flat bass; S. A. Stinson, bass drum and cymbals; Chas. S. HoUman, snare drum. The Homer Cornet band is made up as follows: John Keam solo B flat, Wm. Lamson E flat, Leon Eeara E flat clarionet, Nelson Jones 1st B flat cornet, Walter Smith solo alto, John Harris 1st alto, Hans Anderson 2nd, Tim O'Connor 3rd, George Harris 1st tenor, Easmus Fredrickson 2nd, Joseph liarris baritone, Alonzo McEntarffer tuba, Wm. Ream snare drum, J. R. Kelsey bass drum. (Organized October, 1888. The Homer Orchestra was organized in January, 1889, as follows: John Ream 1st violin, Hans Ander- son 2nd violin, Carl Fredrickson flute, Chris Hansen clarionet, Rasmus Fredrickson bass. Following are the parts taken by each member of the Emerson Cornet band: JSl. M. Engelen and Chas. Borowsky solo B flat cornet, C. W. JVlcQuaid solo alto, T, Kuntz 1st alto. Z. M. Baird 2nd alto, Chris Larson 1st tenor, H. D. Engelen baritone, James Bannon tuba, J. H. Winters snare drum, John Bannon bass drum and cymbals. BIOGRAPHICAL. CHAPTER XVII. Pioneer Settlees of 1855. Jesse Wigle, the sas;e of the pioneers, and first 6et- tier of Dakota comity, journeying across the uninhabited lands of the west, halted one pleasant morning in June, 1855, upon the present site of South Sioux City. He beheld the high bluft's more than twenty miles away to the south and southwest, but no where over all this great scope of country were there any signs of •civilization — it was rn in the county. Jesse Wigle w-as born January 29, 1825, at Frankfort, Ross county, Ohio. Went with his parents to Union county, Ohio, and from there to Jefferson county, Iowa, in 1847, where he was married to Nancy IT. Burdett, Angust 9, 1849. Afterwards went to El- dora, Harden county, Iowa. Started westward in search of a home in 1855. Geoege T. Woods, in company with a Frenchman and two Blackfeet Indians, rowed across the Missouri river to Nebraska in a skiff on the 1st day of July, 1855. He had come over to look at the country, went afoot to the Col. Baird bluffs, had wild turkey for din- SETTLERS OF 1855. 165 Tier; thence soutlivvard to what is now known as tlie Tim Murphy place, and here on the ai'ternoon of July 1, 1855, lie drove down the first claim stake ever driven into Dakota county soil. There were no impressive ceremonies or eloquent "corner-stone" speeches on the occasion, although it will ever stand out as a very im- portant step in the history of the county. On the 1st of September Gham.ey A. Ilorr ani Moses Kreps crossed the river with him, and they began building a log cabin where Omadi was afterwards located. This is supposed to have been the first house erected in the county. They were getting ready to build a saw mill on Omaha creek. Mr. Woods foresaw the coming of future events; he reasoned that a human tide would soon roll across the fertile prairies of JSebraska, and a great quantity of lumber would be required to satisfy the demand. While they were at work a band of In- dians cam e along and took all of their provisions and everything else they could get their hands on, includ- ing their boat, "and," says Mr. Woods, "they came very nearly taking our scalps." They were now left with- out a mouthful of provisions and without any means of reaching the Iowa shore. They found a dead hawk, wliicli was all they had to eat for three days, when a Frenchman happened to come along with a boat and took them across the river. But this little drawback did not keep them from returning to Nebraska and completing the saw mill, which was put into operation ou the 1st of April, 1856. Sold lumber at |30 per 1,000 feet. The first lumber sawed by this mill and sold to the settlers was used to build Gideon Warner's old house. JBegan running a steam saw mill in Omadi November, 1856; was also engaged in the butchering business in the tall of 1856, killing as h'igh as four beeves in one day, on certain occasions, to feed the hungry travelers who were pouring into the countiy. In the meantime, he had abandoned the Tim Murphy claim and had taken what is now known as the old 166 waknek's history of dakota cotjhty. Charles Bliven place, as the latter was much nearer to where he was at work in the saw mill. February 27, 1857, he started for Colorado, came back the next fall. Was married to Catherine Ream, sister of Henry Ream, September 23, 1860, in Omadi, by Elder Smith. Moved on the D. Y. ilileman place in 1861, having previously purchased the same of George Fangley. En- listed in Company I, Second Nebraska Cavalry, October, 1862; mustered out November 19, 1863. Engaged in farming until 1864, when he commenced building the Oak's mill, situated one and one-half miles north of Homer. He has from time to time been engaged in brick burning — made the brick used to build the court house, the industrial school building at the Winnebago agency, and many other buildings in the county. Has since been engaged in farming,, general merchandising, etc. Was first president of the old settlers' association. Has never lost his residence in Dakota county since his first settlement here. To Mr. and Mrs. Woods there were born four children — Ida, Fannie, Robert; one sou died. George T. Woods was born February 23, 1831, in Chautauqua county, New York. March 9, 1854, went to McHenry county, Illinois; remained there the fol- lowing summer and then went to Delaware county, Iowa, and engaged in wagon making. Came to Wood- bury county, Iowa, May 3, 1S55. Henry Ream, as has been before stated, crossed the Missouri river to Dakota county on the 15th day of May, 1855. Before him stretched one vast v.filder- ness where tlxe tread of civilization was yet unknown. He made his way afoot to the high bluffs where Col. Baird afterwards located. The grass and weeds were more than ten feet high, and it was, indeed, a weary journey. But long before he again reached the lowai shore, the marvelons richness and fertility of the soil had been fully determined by him. To himself he kept repeating over and over again i "Upon this fair SETTLERS OF 1855. 167 and I will settle, and it shall ever more be my home." Tills was more than thirty-eight years ago, and Henry lleam is still living up to his promise, on his farm ad- joining Homer on the east. On the Ist day of May, 1856, he moved his family from Sergeant Blutfs to old Oiriadi, and lived in a tent while he was constructino a residence. He opened up the first hotel, and was tlie first postmaster. ^ Settled on the farm where he now resides in 1864, bnt his wife soon afterwards died and he moved to Dakota City, where he took charge of the Bates House. Was mar- ried a second time, to Mrs. Almeda tlirsch, widow of Abraham Hirsch. Mrs. Hirsch was one of first pio- neer women to reacii Dakota county, and the second child th'itdled in the county wa^ an infant daughter of hers. She had two children by her first husband — Frank and Luella. Mr. Ream has five children by his first wife — Marcellus M., Charles, John, Mrs. Mary E. McBeath and Mrs. Fannie Easton. By their second marriage they have four children — Nina M., Mabel, Leon and William. Moved back to their farm in 1871. Henry Ream was born in Somerset county, Penn- sylvania, in 1822, and came west in 1853. A. H. Bakeb came strolling along through the west and crossed over the river to Dakota county August 23. 1855. He was "young and full of vim," and went to work building a saw mill on Ornaha creek, near the town of Omadi. Besides himself there were interested in this mill, Jacob Hallock, G-eo. T. Woods and Ciiauncey A. Horr. It was one of the finest mill sites ever seen in this part of the country. Omaha Cree.k at that time made a square angle about a mile south of where is now located the Gideon Warner farm, and turning southward until it reached the bluffs, thence east to the river below BIyburg. But during the flood in the spring of 1857, when a great volume of water broke over the river bank above old St. Johns, and rushing down along the bluffs past Col. H. Baird's ] 68 waenee's history of Dakota county. place into Omaha Creek, so great was the pressure of this vast amount of water that it cut a channel straight through to the river. It was in the summer of 1855 when he, in company with George T. "Woods, William Chertey and others, ei'ossed the Missouri river and went on a claim-hunting expedition. They crossed over at Omadi, went south to the bluffs through high grass, jungles, mud, water, creeks and the wildest looking country ever seen by itiortal eyes in the west. Went eastward along the blulfs to Blyburg, struck across the hills to 8quaw Creek, where Samuel Kymell lives, then to where Homer now stands and nn up to Col. Baird's place. Here they crossed and re-crossed the creek. Every time they came to a bend in the stream they sup- posed it was another creek and would plunge in and swim across. They thought the}' had nevei- before' seen such a country for creeks. It was night when they reached their boats at Omadi, and a more weary, hungry and foot-sore crowd had never l>efore or since been seen in Dakota county. To sho-w the reader what a trip they made that day we will state that the san)& journey can hardly be made to-day by the strongest person, when he would have the alvantage O'f good roads. The winter of 1855- was ezitrenx^ly cold, the mercury never getting above the treezing point horn the 23d o£ December until spring, and the snow was eighteen inches deep most af the winter, never drifting in the least. These sturdy pioneers worked awaj- at the saw mill,, and by spring had it ready to go tO' saw- ing lumber. They sold the mill and bought a steam saw mill in the town of Omidi. Here Mr. Baker worked about se-ven years. Was elected county com- missioner at the first electio-n held in Dakota county,, in November, ISo;). In the suimner af 18-5S., while he- was cooimissioner, the question of subniittiag a propo- aition to the vote of the people in regard*to changing; the county seat from Dakota City, which had been lo- cate.d, there, by an act o.f the legislatare. passed, Ja.auarj)- SETTLERS OF 1855. 169 23, 1856, to some other point, came np l-.efore the board for action. The affirmative was represented Ijy John Taff, negative by Wm. Lockwood, Taff opening the dis- cussion. He wanted the county seat moved to Omadi. Loud was his voice, and defiantly did he "saw the air" with his long arms. Lockwood replied with a still more fiery speech, and it looked at one time as if there would be a mortal combat between the two men, Taff, who was afterwards called, to congi-ess from this state to appear before the nation's wise debaters, won his point, and the comuiissioners allowed the people to vote on the proposition August 2 of that year. Dakota ■City came out victorious. Mr. Baker was afterwards elected probate judge for Dakota county. But let us tell you what he had done in the meantiuie. He was not contented with thr«e partners -in the milling busi^ iiess; another partner seemed essential in fhe running of that mill. Now, Jacob Hallock had a sister, Miss E.ose, who proTO-ised to be Mr. Baker's partner to the end of life, and accordingly on the 20th of September, 18S7, tliey were married, and liave three daughters — ■ Mrs. William Eckhart, MoUie and ]MelJi<;. In' 1S63 he removed to Deaat,ur, worked at the aiiason trad« about two years, then returned to Dakota ■City; run a saw mill, which stood in the southwestern part of the to-wxi, two years, tiien removed to the Winnebago agency, ran,, the saw mill there about two years, then returned to Dakota City, and resided there .until 1884, when he was appointed miller and .sawyer at the Winnebago agency under Agent Wilkin- :son. He lias also been member of the JS^ebraslia legis- lature and held variou'S other offices. Was one of the partners w1k> btiilt the Emniit mill at Jackson. Mr. Baker was born in Chantaiiqua county, New York, in 1834, afterwards ca-me to MoHenry county, Illinois. In the' fall of 1854 he removed to Delaware ccounty, Iowa. Landed on Nebraska's fertile soil Aug, 23^ 1855., M-JiicJi 1ms e^er .sjjice bfen J) is honie.. Bj his 170 -n-AEJiE's BitTCET cr vafxta couktt. square and straightforward dealings with his fellowmen he has won the respect and esteem of all who know him. KoBERT PiLGEiM crossed the Missouri river at Sergeant Bliifis with his father, William Pilgrim, Jesse Wigle and others, on the 19th day of Angust, 1855. They camped on the west bank of the river, and the next day, August 20, proceeded to the Col. Baird bluffs,, where they camped about a week, and then moved their tents down to wnere John Braunt now lives. Took a claim in September two m.iles east of Homer, the old Col. Warner place, and built a log cabin by the spring near the Spring Grove school house, in district JNo. 14. Lived here during the winter of 1855-'56, lit- tle dreaming that in future years a school house would be reared upon the site of his lonely winter quarters. Was married in 1858 to Mereb Braunt, daughter of Jeremian Braunt, who then lived on the old Josiah Davis place. He went to Colorado, and on his return moved to the Lewis Blessing place. Took a claim, now owned by Barney Gribble, on Fid- dler's creek — so' named from the fact that the people who Jived on the creek, were all tiddlers. Robert Pilgrim was born February 15, 1836, in Langeville, Indiana. He \\ent to Hlinois with his parents about 1842, and then to Iowa in 1844, where he lived until 1855, when he started for Nebraska. Has five sons and three daughters — Jeremiah, Will- iam H., Horatio, John R. and Ira; Mrs. E. M. Snyder, Mrs. JRosa Antrim and Melissa. Leonakd Bates, in company with ex-Governor Wm. H. James, crossed the Missouri river at Sergeant Bluffs in a canoe to JNebraska in the fall of 1853, but finding nothing but brush and wild jungles they re- turned to the Iowa shore M'ith the opinion that ]^ebraska was one vast brush patch. He again crossed the river in the fall of 1855 and wended his way westward until SETTLEHS OF 1855. 171 lie came to the beautiful prairies of Dakota connty. Took a claim which is now owned by John Blessing and Eph Hunt. Built a log house in Logan in the summer of 1856, and the following winter sold the house and also his claim. Went to Sergeant BluflFs and remained one year, when he returned to Nebraska andj took a claim in the winter of '56 and '57, where lie now lives, three miles west of Dakota City. This claim was adjoining Logan on the west. Went to Colo- rado in 1859. About this time he came to the conclu- sion that he would do something that would break him of moving aronnd so often, and accordingly was mar- ried to Miss May Weaver, February 27, I860, in Da- kota City, by Wm. Denton, a United Brethren minis- ter. They immediately started on their wedding tour to his claim. Here he has lived to see, as it were, a vision pass before his eyes. The wild prairies disap- pear and behold the land teeming with wealth and prosperity. The town of Logan rises, falls and decays until to-day there is no trace of a town there. Has five children living and one dead. Has been elected county surveyor four times on the Republican ticket, and was chosen as vice president of the Pioneers and Old Settlers Association at their annual re-union, August 14, 1886, and elected as president at their meet- ing September 1, 1888. Leonard Bates was born April 5, 1833, in Winsor county, Vermont. Left there with his parents when three years old for Indiana. Went to Linn county, Iowa, in 1847, and was engaged in farming. Was edu- cated in the public schools. Started west July 18, 1852, and Ian ded in Woodtmry coanty, Lnva, August 8, 1852- Was employed by the government to survey the town- ship lines between the Big and Little Sioux rivers. One day while they were out surveying they were over- taken by a great prairie tire, such as no man will ever isee again in this section of country, and one man was burned to death and others badly injured, but Mr. 172 waenek's histoet of dakota couktt. Bates, like the three men we read about in the Bible, came out of the fire unharmed. Took a claim where Sergeant Bluffs now stands. Thus closes the history of another "sturdy pioneer." Col. Haelon Baibd, on the 27th day of Septem- ber, 1855, crossed the Missouri river to Dakota county and proceeded to the bluffs, -vrhere he selected the farm on which he has lived to the present time, about eight miles southeast of Dakota City. So much has already been said in repard to Col. Eaird, in this book, that to give a full biography now of his life would only be a repetition. His good and noble wife died June 5, 1888, leaving three children, — Thomas C, Plenry Clay and Emma, wife of Benjamin Bridenbaugh. When the war broke out he, with Maj. McBeatli, Mat Patrick and Billy Curl, were among the first in Nebraska to offer their services for the country's good. They enlisted in August, 1861,. in the Nebraska cav- alry, a batallion raised in Omaha. This was after- wards consolidated witJi troops from Iowa, Minnesota and Missouri and an independent I'egiment formed and assigned under the state of Iowa, and by special order was made the Fifth Iowa Cavalry. It was more widely known as "Curtis Horse" cavalry. They were known throughout the war as one of the pluckiest and hardest fighting regiments on the ground. He mustered in as a private, was .'elected as a captain by his company, and by promotion soon received the honor of colonel.. He to-day suffers, from wounds received while fighting for his country:- lie was discharged from the service July 27, 1865., "When Nebiuska M-as first admitted as a. state Coi. Eaird- was wisely selected by the people of Dakota county ^to represent thtm in the legislature, and he did much work in helping to frame and adopt the constitution. It Avas at this session that the great tight wap for the removal of the state capital, Columbus and Lincoln being the two leading points. After it S^;TTLERS OF 1855. 178 was found that Lipcoln had a majority of the votes all. those wlio had voted for Colnrabus had changed their votes to Lincoln bnt. tlie colonel, and if the records are correct, his vote alone will be found standing there in favor of Columbus, He believed Columbus to be the proper place for the state capital, and he intended to stand by his belief. He has always been an unswerv- ing Republican. Charles Houleaux "was an Indian trader in Da- kota county in 1855. Took a claim, which was subse- quently the town site of Oraadi; afterwards laid out tlie town of Rnlo in the southern part of the state, where he died. Judge Thomas L. Grifeet was standing on the east bank of the Missouri river, some three miles below wliere Sioux City is now located, in the fall of 1851. and saw several deer come down to the water on the opposite side to drink. He was just as fond of hunt- ing then as he was all his life, and forthwith he pro- ceeded to cross the river on a hunting expedition, which was .the first time he had ever touched the soil of Dakota county. "At this time," said Mr. Griffey, "there was the most dense timber and tlie largest treps l)etween where Dakota City and Covington now stand that I ever saw in my . life." T. L. Griffey was born June 28, 1827, in Alexandria, Campbell county, Ken- tucky; went to Kanesville, now Council Bluffs, in March, 1849; M'as on his way to Colorado, but was taken sick and postponed the trip indefinitely; first stepped upon the soil of Nebraska territory in 1850; started up the Missouri river from Council Bluffs in the fall of 1S51 witii a load of groceries to trade to thd Indians for furs; established a trading post where Woodbury is now located; was married August 7, 1853, to -Mary I. Brown, daughter of Eev. Samuel Brown, a Methodist minister, v^^ho lived near Council Bluffs. In tlie fall of 1853 was employed by United States Indian 174 Warner's history oj dakota county. Agent Hepner to escort a delegation of Onialia Indians of whom the Fontenelle boys were leaders, up the river to look at a tract of land ,'ib,)ve where Ponca was after- wards located, and .f they chose to do so the govern- ment gave them the right to select land there in lieu of the reservation on which they are now living. They concluded they would select the latter for their home. The first night the party camped on what was after- wards to be known as the Gol. Baird farm. "When they awoke the next morning they found a bee tree di- rectly above their tents, from which over fifty pounds of honey was obtained. After the party had returned from up the river they proceeded to the Tnouth of "Wood creek, where the town of Decatur was afterwards built, and began selectincr a tract of land to contain about - 3C0,000 acres, which is now called the Omaha reserva- tion. Mr. Grriffey drove down the initial stake about a hundred yards from the bank of the river, immediately north of the forty-second parallel of north latitude. They then surveyed about twenty-four miles due west, eighteen miles north, and thence east to the Missouri river below Blyburg. In 1854 helped to frame the territorial government of Nebraska, named all the northern counties, including Dakota county, which at that time was spelled Dacotah. He organized Wood- bury county, appointed a full set of county officers and located the county seat near the grave of Sergeant Floyd, below Sioux City, and named the town Sergeant Bluffs, which was afterwards moved to a point opposite Dakota City and called Sergeant Bluffs. In 1856 took a claim within the present limit of Sioux City, which to this day is known as the Griffey addition; sold his entire interest in the laud which had been in litigation for many years by the Iowa Falls and Sioux City rail- road company to S. T. Davis, of Sioux City, for more than 125,000. Was admitted to the bar in Sioux City in 1856, and went into the law and real estate business. Located in Covington in 1857 and moved his family SETTLEBS OF 1855. 175 there in the spring of 1858. In the spring of 1859 went to Pike's Peak and returned in the fall. His family had the ague, so he concluded to get up on higher ground and moved to Cedar county in 1860. Moved to Dakota City in 1861; was deputy county clerk in 1862 under Dr. G. B. Graff. In 1862 he en- listed ill Company I, Second Nebraska Cavalry, under command of Gov. Robert W. Furnas. Marched up the river to Fr. Sully and fought in the battle of White Stone Hill against the Indian warriors. Was orderly sergeant, and was mustered out November, 1863. Served in territorial council from 1864 to 1866; jvas elected on the Democratic ticket in a strong Repub- lican district against Hon. Ex-Governor William H. James, and was appointed on the committee on schools, where he did much hard work to shape and mold the school laws for Nebraska. Was county attorney for seven years. In 1875 was elected judge ot the Sixth judicial district of Nebraska on the Democratic ticket, against Hon. E. K. Valentine, Republican. Served on the bench more than a year, when he was counted out by a Republican legislature which decided that Valentine had bean elected'by 2 an! 21-100 votes.. On the 26th day of fttay, 1882, was stricken with apoplexy, which rendered his left side useless. Up to this time he was enjoying one of the largest law practices ever acquired by any one man in the county before or since. His wife died in October, 1885, leaving four children, of which three are dead. Was for years one of the heaviest tax payers of the county, and ever took a deep interest in the agricultural advancement of Dakota county. Was the lirst president of the Dakota County Farmers' Institute, organized in 1886. In 1885 moved on his farm a short distance northeast of Dokota City, built a substantial residence, good barn and other com- fortable out buildings for stock. It is a strange coin- cidence that he settled near the spot where in the fall of 1851 he crossed the river to Dakota county, long be- ]76 WAENEk's HISTORY OF DAKO'l A OOUNTr. fore there was a solitary white in au there; when there was no Sioux City and the county was wild and in its primeval state. How marvelous it must seem to a man to have seen this country in its uninhabited condition and then look upon it in its present, wonderful, pros- perity. He died at his home in Sioux City, iowa, January 1,1892. John B. Akteaux, in company with Charles Rou- leaux, crossed the Missouri river in a canoe to where Omadi was afterwards founded, and selected his claim September 5, 1855, which is situated west of the Gideon Warner place on Omaha creek. He visited Dakota county prior to this, June 6, 1851, while employed by the American Fur company, and in 1853, when he camped on the subsequent town site of Omadi. He lived in Dakota county until 1884, when he moved to Sioux City, Iowa, where he has. siuCe resided. B. M. PizY was born in England, and visited what is to-day Dakota county in April, 1850. He was Sioux City's pioneer stage driver. Afterwards settled in Da- kota City, where he now resides. Was married to Miss Mary Pinkerton, a pioneer school teacher of the county,, in September, 1864. Has two sons — Alfred and Paulding. Moses Kseps came to Dakota county in the fall of 1855. Took a claim in Omadi precinct, now owned by David Waterman. He is now living in Dakota City. Horace Dutton rode on a horse across- the unin- habited lands of Iowa in July, 1855. There were iu> roads, and he lost his way and for two days did not see a human being. Flnaily he reached ^Woodburv> Iowa, where he remained until December 6, 1855^ when he crossed over the river to Dakota county and took a claim where John Joyce now lives. Spent that winter in the Covington timber hauling wood to; Sioux: City. Enlisted in Company D, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, ia November, 1861 and served four years. Slarried to- SETTLERS OF 1855. 177 Sarah Sanlsberry in 1867 and settled on a farm five miles west of Dakota City, where he resides at present. They have two daughters— Mand and Kuth. Squire Dutton came to Dakota county with his brother, Horace, December 6, 1855. Settled in Logan. Died at his home in Pagosa Springs, Colo., December, 1885, leaving a widow and two sons. John J. Trecy was born in Ireland in 1S27. Emi- grated to America with his parents in 1833, and located in Lancaster, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania; in 1854, with the family moved to Dubuque, Iowa; in the Burn- er of 1855, in company witli his brother, Father Trecy, who was then looking for a location to establish a colony, drove across the state of Iowa, locating in what is now called Old St. Jotms. In 1862 was married to Miss Elizabeth McLaughlin, and moved to Huntsville, Alabama, returning to Dakota county in 1870. In 1881 they moved to Wayne, Nebraska, where they now reside. They have five children — Francis S., Augustus J., Raymond J., Mrs. Minnie Frazier and Mrs. j^nnie Kohl. He was oiie of the first commissioners of Da- kota county, being re-elected October 11, 1859. John and William Bay came to Dakota county. in 1855, and started a general store in Omadi. John afterwards went to Washington Territory and William went to Illinois. Edward C. Jones was born in 1882 in West Meath county, Ireland, and came with his parents to America in 183(6. Came to Dakota connty in 1855, returned to Iowa and, in company with Trecy's colony, again reached this county June 1, 1856. Enlisted in the war for the Union, and served two years. Was rfilso member of the territorial legislature in 1857 and 1858. Died at Neblette Landing, Boliver county, Miss., April 13, i88J. Gustave Peoaut was born in Switzerland in 1826. Came ±o America and crossed the Missouri river where 178 waenee's history op dakota county. Sioux City was afterwards built, in 1852, selecting a claim where Covington is now located. In 1854 built the first log cabin in the county. In those davs deer were very plentiful in the large timber of that vicinity, and he killed niany of them. Was married to Miss Christiana Held February 10, 1859, near Jackson. Have three sons and one daughter. Moved to Sioux City, Iowa, in 1874, where he has a good, comfortable home on the very soil which years ago be beheld in its wild, primeval state, covered with rank prairie grass. Maecellus M. Ream was born April 14, 1848 Came with his parents to Sergeant Bluffs, Iowa, in the summer of 1855, and the 10th of October crossed over the Missouri river to Dakota county, being the first white boy to cross the river. His parents moved to Omadi in the spring of 1856, and he attended the first school ever taught in the county, by Miss Putnam. Afterwards went to school to G. W. Wilkinson. Was married to Miss Jennie Broyhill May 8, 1871, in Da- kota City, where he has resided to the present time. Was clerk in the Land Office and deputy county clerk for Henry Stott. Have one child, a daughter — Edna. PostoflBce address, Dakota City. Jacob H. Hallock was born October 11, 1833, in Bath, Stueben county, New York. Arrived at Sergeant Bluffs, Iowa, about the 1st of May, 1855, and about the Ist of July, in company with George T. Woods and others crossed the Mitfcuii river at a point above where Dakota Cily was aite^\^a]ds IccaUd. Wtnt up to the blufJ's at a point vihich was later naitied St. Johns, then to where Ponca is now built, and then down to where Col. Baird eubsequently settled. Helped to build one of the first log cabins erected in the county, and also helped to build the first saw mill, in the winter of 1855-56, in Omp.di. Was elected first county clerk in 1856, while absent in New York to get the girl he left behind him — Miss Marv 0. Nash — SETTLERS OF 1866. 179 whom he married at Cuha, New York, November 10, 1856. In 1862, assisted in organizing Company I, Second Nebraska Cavalry, and was second lieutenant of that company, mustered out in December 1863, and moved to Cuba, New York, where he still residef- SETTLERS OF 1856. Wm. C. McBeath, journeying into the wild west, crossed over the Missouri river in the spring of 1856 and branded Nebraska as his state, Dakota as his county and Oniadi for his home. Here he was en- gaged in the mercantile business for nearly three years. He was a kind and generous hearted man, and the suf- fering caused by the severe winters of 1856 and 1S57 offered an opportunity for testing these predominating traits of character. "Times were hard," the pioneers were on the-eve of starvation and the future prospect for Dakota county was decidedly gloomy. But this generous hearted merchant of Omadi was equal to the emergency. He sent word to all the needy pioneers that they could have flour or anything else he had in liis store, and pay for it when they got able to do so. Although thirty years of wonderful changes have passed away, those pioneers, now grown old, with whitened locks, still revere and hold in sacred remembrance the honored name ofWm. C. McBeath. When the war- broke out he enlisted in Company D, Fifth Iowa Cav- alry, promoted to second lieutenant in 1862, afterwards ilrst lieutenant. In August, 1863, was promoted to captain on account of the death of Capt. Wm. Curl. In Jnne, 1865, for gallant and efficient service as a soldier, he was promoted to major, which position he held when he was mustered out, September, 1865, Remained south about tliree years, then returned t© Dakota county. Soon after was married to Mary lieam, eldest daughter of Henry Eeam. The grateful people remembering his favors to them, felt that a Iriend in need was a friend indeed — that they owed 180 Warner's histobt of dakota county. him something, and proceeded to elect him county clerk twelve years in succession, beginning January 1, 1870, and ending January 1, 1882. Under Dr. G. W. Wilkinson's administration as agent for the Winnebago and Omaha Indians, he was appointed to the position of clerk at the Winr.ebago agency ; afterwards appointed superintendent of the industrial school at the Omaha agency. After this his health began to fail, and lie took a trip to Eosebud agency, in the hope of regain- ing his strength. He was born in Wayne county, Ky., November 15, 1833. Died at his residence in Dakota City, Nebraska, March 30, 1886. Mrs. Mary E. Mc- Eeatli and two children — George and Mrs. Gertie Best —survive him, and reside in Dakota City. Thomas Ashford made his first footprints upon Nebraska soil on the morning of March 10, 1856, and since that time his vigilant "footprints" have ever borne a conspicuous part in the general history of Dakota county. In 1858 he burned a kiln of brick for Will- iam Ashbnrn, who was intending to build a large hotel in Omadi and "was putting on lots of style,"' says Mi-. Ashford, "just like many other people who have no money." And sure enough, he didn't have any money except what he swindled the people out of. lie 'i skipped out," and thus left Mr. Ashford with a lot of brick on his hands, some of which he sold to the set- tlers. Went to Colorado in 1859 and remained there nearly two years, engHged in mining. Came back to Dakota county in November, 1860, to look after his claim, which he had taken previous to his trip to Colo- rado. This claim is the one where he lives at the pi'esent time, located a mile east of Homer. He now found use for the brick that he still owned in Omadi, and built a substantial dwelling on his claim with them. It was now more than six years since he had come to Nebraska, and he saw that if he ever expected to accomplish much in the world he must immediately ^'settle down to business," and in order to do this be SETTLEES OB' 1856. 181 mnst have some one to help hiin out with it. Maggie iJnggan, sistei- of Hon. Daniel Dnggan, of Jackson, was also studying the same proposition, and somehow or another — the world will probiibly never know how it did happen — but history tells ns that they were mar- ried in the Catholic church at Jackson, Nebraska, April 1, 1861. They '-settled down" on his claim, where they have since resided to the present time— lived to see th3 country all around them settled up, and none but those who saw it in those days can imao-ine the great contrast between the landscape then and the civilized condition in which we behold it to-day. Mr. Ashford's life has been a busy one, both on the farm and in public enterprise, including politics. He has a tirstclass farm, a pleasant home, and many warm Iriends. A person is naturally led to admire the energy and enterprise that spurs a man on from comparative obscurity to wealth and a higher estimation among his fellowmen. The record of such lives should evei' be prominently displayed i)efore the people %s guiding landmarks and lasting examples to many of the young men who are whiling away the springtime of their lives in idle shiftlessness. Thus, with this aim in view, we thought, per chance, some wayward traveler readincr about those heroic veterans of early days, might "take heart again," pick up his gripsack and pass on th]-ough this vale of tears with a lighter spirit toward the goal of honor and respectability. He was born April 10, 1828, in vVicklow county, Ireland. In 1849 lie came across the ocean and landed at New Orleans, and after I'emaining there two months went to Cincinnati by steamboat. In the spring of 1850 went to Butler, Hamilton county, Ohio, and remained there two years. In 1853 went to Indiana; lived there until February, 1856, when he began preparations for that memorable "journey to Nebraska, which was undoubtedly the Juckiest move of his life. Has six children living — - Thomas, John, George, Mary, Mrs. Dr. C. H. Maxwell and Julia. 182 waknee's history or dakota county William Nixon bent his steps westward in 1856, landing upon Daliota county's fertile soil March 20, of that year, and since that time the fertility of her soil, added to his exhaustless energy, has yielded for him one of the most beautiful farms in northern Webrasi^a. He first located on the C. B. Bliven nlace, and after- wards took a claim a short distance south of where Homer now stands. Mr. Nixon bought five sacks of flour of W. C. McBeath, of Omadi, built a rude house, and otherwise prepared for that stormy winter of '56-'57. In the spring he went to Council Bluffs for supplies. The roads were almost impassable, many abandoning their loads until the roads were be-tter. He made slow progress, averaging but live miles a day, and finally the roads got so muddy and he made such slow progress that he found it convenient to stop at the same house two nightcs in succession. There were but few houses between Dakota City and Council Bluffs. Here on his claim he has lived to the present time, aiid when an honest, upright man of push and energy set- tles down on a piece of land and sticks to it for more than thirty years, you may be sure that he will have something to show for it. He has had his battles to fight with mishaps and accidents, just the same as other mortals. But men are not alike. Some sink be- neath the weight of their trials and troubles, others are seen above the foam where none but the brave and strong can float. Why is it that those who beo-an the race for fortune more than a quarter of a century ago are now so widely scattered along the line? Life is a battle, and energy is the cannon. Perhaps those who are accustQmed to seeing Mr. Nixon's luxu- rious home of to-day would like to have a pen picture of it as the pioneers knew the place iu early times. He lived in a small log cabin, and sheds took the place of his large barn and other substantial buildings; stock of all kinds was rather slim around the premises; not a fruit tree was. to he seen;, no beautiful groves — -aU SETTLEBS OF 1856. 183 was a barren prairie — and some of the good old vet- erans wlio lived on the bottom said lie . was foolish for g;()ing "so far ont among the desolate hills" to live. But he went, all the same, and has lived tliere to wit- ness the human tide that subsequently rolled across the wide Missouri valley, dotting the land with pleasant homes, until to-day he is in the midst of a thiciily set tied community. He was born August 13, 1818 in vVIgtonshire, Scotland. Came across the ocean in 1852 on a schooner of which his brother Samuel was captain and part owner, who was afterwards drowned on tiie ocean in the time ol a great hurricane. I: was forty-two days from the time he start- ed until he reached New York, after passing through some very severe storms. He went to Pitts- burg, Pa., July 4, 1852, and worked there two years in a glass factory. In 1855 went to G-rinnell, Iowa, and started with an ox team for Nebraska in 1856, J OHN MoQuiLKiN walked across the Missouri river on the ice at Sei-geant Bluffs Marcii 20, 1856, in search of a place to settle down and fight the battle of life, and it is safe to presume that these stirring engage- ments were many and oft times severe, when we con- sider the numerous trials and obstacles that confronted those fearless pioneers who subdued the "western wilds" and made it possible for us to enjoy the bounti- ful blessings bestowed upon irs to-day. ■ Across the ice with iiim came J3enjaraiu Cliambers, William Nixon, Louis Blessing and James Dickey. They had gone about half way across when Louis Blessing broke throuorh the ice and went down to his waist in the water. But pioneers generally accomplish their aim, and they found another crossing place and landed safely on Nebraska's soil. Mr. McQuilkin stopped in a shanty on the I'iver bank that night, and went out to Col. Baird's place next day to look for a claim. Not finding anything out there that suited his taste, he lo- cated on the Mark Fair place of 120 acres, east of 1 84 waenee's history ov dakoia oouNxr. Dakota City, broke ten acres and built a log cabin 14 by 16 feet. An early fall was setting in, and things generally indicated that the winter was going to be very severe. That winter he lived alone on the Cham- bers place, just east of Dakota City, and if you want to hear some big stories about that awful winter of '56 and '57, he can satisfy you on this particular point. He farmed the Chambers place in 1858, and the next year the John Wright place, about three miles east of Dakota City.. In 1862 he farmed Samuel Gamble's place, now owned by Eston Hush, and situated due east of Dakota City. October 18, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, Second Nebraska Cavalry, and in the spring of 1868 marched up the Missouri river with the army, crossed at Ft. Randall and went on to Ft. Pierre. He fought in the battle of White Stone Hill, Dakota territory, and was mustered out November, 1863. January 13, 1864, he married Alice Rush, daughter of Eston Rush, and settled down on his claim, proved up on it, and lived to see the wild prairie of '56 thoroughly settled up with an honest, thrifty class of people. He sold his farm to Mark Fair in 1874 for $3,500, and moved his family to Webster county, Ne- braska. In the spring of 1884 he located on apiece of land four miles northwest of Emerson, built a barn and lived in that until he had completed a substantial dwelling house. He has a good orchard started and several acres of forest trees planted. He has six child- ren. He was horn June R, 1827, in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, went to New Castle, Pa., in 1852, and in 1853 to Muscatine county, Iowa, by way of Louisville, Ky. Was engaged as painter and finish- ing furniture. He went to Grinnell, Iowa, in 1855, and the following spring joined a three-ox team expe- dition for Nebraska. This completes the history of another pioneer. Louis Blessing, on the 20th of March, 1856', while attempting to cross the Missouri river on. the ice. SETTLERS OF 1856. 185 broke through and came very near being drowned, but he did not give np. He tried another place, and reached Dakota county in safety, wliich, since that eventful day, he has called his home. Located on a claim just west of Homer, where he resides at the present time. He was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, August 11. 1825. and -was married to Catharine Riddle at Sioux City, Iowa, July 28, 1860. Has two sons and three daughters — -George C.and William; Chris- tiana Ji,, Ella 11. and Anna M. Benjamin F. Chambers was born in Westmore- land county, Pa., in May, 1832; was married to Nancy M. McCartney at Indiana, Pa., by Pev. David Elair, in August 1863; came west in the spring of 1855 and stopped at Grinnell, Iowa, where his wife died in August of that year. While there he heard many glowing accounts of the beautiful county of Dakota, in tlie territory of Nebraska, and started to see for liim- selt if they were true, arriving here on the 20th day of March, 1856. He at once became convinced that Ne- braska was good enough a country for him, and pro- ceeded to build the lirst house ever erected in Da- kota City. In the fall of that year returned to Penn- sylvania, and was married to Sarah A. Hull in March, 1857, by Eev. C. A. Carson. Eeturned to Dakota county in April of same year. The story of the trials and hardships in the years that followed is fresh in the minds of the pioneers; of hard winters, storms and drouths; of encounters with the festive mosquitoes, and later on, the thrilling period of the grasshoppers, which caused suffering and devasta- tion to the country. These destructive insects swarmed over tlie country in great clouds, obscuring the light of the sun to some extent, and flying into houses, wells, and everywhere, so that it was with the greatest diffi- culty that they were kept out of the victuals on the table. Served thirteen months in Company I, Second ]Ni3braska Cavalry. In this connection, Mr, Chamber^* 186 WAENEe'8 history OJ DAKOTA COUNTY. says: "I lived on grasshopper sonp for several years and occasionally had a mosquito sing. Paid |5 for a mosquito bar and put it around my bed, but it was no go, the mosquitoes got inside and could not get out after they got full of blood." Be also says that there were plenty of deer in the county in 1856, but the se- vere winter and deep snow of '56 and '67 destroyed most of them. Was three times elected sheriff of Da- kota county; was deputy United States marshal four years; represented Dakoia and Dixon counties in the legislature in 1874-'75; was register of the LTnited States land office at Niobrara from May, 1876, until July, 18'84:. Has resided in JSMobrara since 1876. Has had four sons and four daughters, two of whom are dead and three are married. JV'Ir. Chambers took much interest in the general welfare of Dakota county in its pioneer days and kelped to get it started on its prosperous career. De. M. PiNKEiiTON, on the last day of March, 1856, crossed the Missouri river at Sioux City alone iri an old skiff. Took a claim in Covington timber, built a log cabin and enjoyed the wildest looking scenery im- aginable. Here he lived to experience the terrors of that fearful winter of '56 and '57, about which to this day the pioneers love to tell "long-winded" stories. The prairie chickens sought the woods for protection froni the severe weather, and would light in the large trees around the cabin. Mr. Pinkerton and his com- rade, Pitzpatrick, who was afterwards killed in Coving- ton, had all the chicken that they could make use of. At different times has held the office of county treas- urer, sheriff and justice of the peace. Was mai'ried to Martha Mershon February 20, 1861, in West Spring- field, Erie county, Pa.; has two children. Moved to Dakota City in 1865, and was there proprietor of the "Pinkerton House," located in the so\ith part of town. In 1873 moved to Glenwood, Iowa, and has lived there and at Tabor, Iowa, ever since. SETTLERS OF 1856. 187 William Haevet Boals came to Dakota county April 20, 1856; was married to FioiettaA. Beardshear in December, 1872, Has one adopted son. Lives on a farm five miles west of Dakota City. He weil re- members when Dakota county was one vast wilderness, where the wild beasts roamed unmolested and the streams went gliding on unobstructed by tlie hand of man. Charley Ream came with his parents to Dakota county iu the spring of 1856. -Married to Sina Mc- Pherson. They have five sons and three daughters. Geoeoe L. Boals, Jk. , came to Dakota county April 22, 1856, and the following winter the house in which he lived was entirely covered up with snow. Was married in 1874 to Hattie Plank. Has two sons and three daughters. He is a farmer, and lives six miles west of Dakota City. Joachim Oesteeliko stood upon the hills where Sioux City is now located on tlie 5th day of May, 1856, and viewed th-e wild and fertile prairies and timber lands of Dakota county, wondering what the future years had in store for himself and the surrounding country. There were a few houses along the river ■bank. He opened up the Des Moines House and •operated it tor three years- Bought a tract of land above Yankton on the Nebraslca side of the Missouri river, on v>hieh he proceeded to found the town of Frankfort. Erected a large hotel and other buildings; a postoffice was establislied, and he was appointed post- master, and just as he was about to make a fortune out •of his new town the war came on and left hioa a poor !in an on a deserted town site. Moved toJNiobrarain I860 ■where he kept hotel and a store and served as post- .master three jears. Came to Dakota City, arriving Jiere in the spring of 1863. Here he worked at the furrier trade until 1868. While in Sioux City for a :3 iipplj oi ra.w Ihr.s in the winter x>f that jear his resi- 188 "waenee's history of dakota cotihty. dejice, whicli stood near the Lutheran church, was burned to the ground, nothing being saved but a bureau. Was coroner of Dakota county two years. Built the Farmers' hotel, now the Eureka House, in 1870, where he acted as proprietor for seventeen years. In 1886 he sold the hotel and built a neat residence in Dakota City. "Was just getting comfortably settled in his new home when he was stricken with paralysis, from which he suffered a great deal. His wife died on Thursday evening, March 15, 1888, at the age of 61 years, 2 months and 2 days. The funeral took place March 17, conducted by Eev. W. 0. McCool, ail the children living, except three, being present. He was born March 21, 1821, in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany; crossed the ocean and came to Columbus in 1846, then to Cincinnati, Ohio, the next year, where he was mar- ried to Miss Mary E. Guyer, at that place, August 5, 1848. To them were born ten children, of whom seven are living and three are dead. The next year he went to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he followed painting and glazing three years, when he moved to Terre Haute and then to Gosport. In 1854 he moved to Des Moines, Iowa, and in the spring, two years later, started on the crowning journey of his life over the wild, uninhabited prairies of vyestern Iowa to the beau- tiful and fertile country of Nebraska, where in the years to come himself and family were to occupy an im- portant place in the general history of Dakota county. Died at Seward, Nebraska, April 5, 1892. James Stott was a native of England. Came to Massachusetts in 1852, then to Connecticut; soon after to "Wisconsin. Four years later Mr. Stott came to Da- kota county, Nebraska, and located on a pre-emption of 120 acres in the timber southeast of where Coving- ton now stands. Here lie engaged in farming on a small scale and also in the wood and shingle business. "Was appointed deputy collector of internal revenue, SETTLEES OF 1856. 189 served about five years. In the spring of 1856 he wad appointed by the commissioners as county assessor, and tliat fall was elected county clerk and held the office two terms; was appointed receiver of the government land office, which he held for nearly twelve years. Soon after his settleme'nt in J^^ebraska his wife died. He was married to Mrs. C. Davis in 1868. His failing health compelled him to retire from all active business the last few years of his life. He died at his residence in Dakota City J uly 16, 1882. His second wife and two step-children — John Davis and Mrs. Tim Carrabine — ^are living in the county. Three of his own chidren are living — Mrs. Van Harden, Niobrara, Neb.; Mrs. Sumner Whittier and Mrs. David Neiswanger, Sioux City. Iowa. His son Henry died January 5, 1887. Thomas Smith, at the helm of a "prairie schooner," steered his way far into the great west, beyond the line of civilization, until on the 14th day of May. 1856, when his eyes first rested upon the beautiful land of Nebraska. He had never beheld, such a desirable coun- try before, and forthwith determined that Dakota county should thenceforth be his home. Across the river with him came Uncle Henry Pilgrim and family. Camped on the river bank and went to Omadi the next morning, remaining there until about the middle of May, when he started for his claim, which he liad se- lected about two miles south of where Homer is now built. His team gave out at Omaha creek and one horse died, so he hired William Jones to complete the journey for him. When he reached the Henry Eeam place they stopped for dinner, and his wife and son Lewis had ague chills, "but." says Mr. Smith, "that is the last time they ever shook." Nebraska climate is not a good bneeder of ague. On the 19th of May, 1856. he was "at home" on his claim, resting from his long and tedious travels. His neighbors at that time were not visible to the naked eye, school houses had 190 wahkee's history or dakota county not yet sprouted and the churclies were God's first tem- ples — the trees. Bnt sncli an uncivilized state of things was not destined to continue long. The stream of emigration soon began to pour in and neighbors be- came plentiful, especially about watermelon time; school houses sprang up magic like, and the old church bell of other days was once more heard in the land, awakeninu- in the minds of the sturdy pioneers thoughts of the pleasant homes and deal' .friends that they had. left in other climes. The old Omadi school house, erected in the spring of 1857, which was the first one ever built in the county, was moved to a point less than a quarter of a mile north of where he lived. A school district was organiz.ed, and Tliomas Smith, Wm. JNixon, and Jesse Wigle were elected as its first board of directors. When Jan)es Stott was county clerk, by some revision of the numbers of the scliool districts, this was called district No. 9, when it should have been No. 1, as it is now the oldest in the county. Thos. Smith was born June 21. 1823. in Darbyshire, Eng- land; came across the ocean in 1845 and landed in New York; then went to Erie county, Oliio, and from there to Sandusky. In 1853 went to Iowa county,. Iowa, and engaged in farming. Was married in Sep- tember, 1851, to Sarah Smith, of Erie county, Ohio. Had seven cliildren, three are dead. S.tarted for Ne- braska in 1856,. whicli closes the story of another pioneer. William Pilgeim step.ped nat from the Mayflower upon Plymouth rock, but from a fiatboat upon the river bank at Covington, on the morning of May 14^ 1856, with his father, the Uticle Plenry Pilgrim, who,, until his death, was honored and respected throughout all this region. They bo-ught a claim eight miles south of Dakota City, the Warner place, now known as Pil- grim Plill. Here he built a substantial house, bara and other out buildings, which decaying time has com- pletely raz.ed to the eai'th,, aad not a. single, vestige of SETTLKKS OF ISSG. 191 tlie buildings remain. At this time Col. Sites was grading down the military road, making times quite lively for a while. When the road was completed there was a great deal of travel, and William took in many a dollar by -'giving the teams a pnll up the hill,'' which was very steep indeed, as many of the old pio- neei's know from experience. When the war broke out he joined a company of cavalry and marched to battle against the red forces of the upper country. He was born October 18, 1839, in Illinois, and after set- tlino- in ISTebraslca, was married to Diana Corvvin June 1, 1865. Has eight children — four sons and four daughters. Heney Pilgrim was born in 1820, in North Caro- lina. Afterwards resided in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and worked two years in the mines of Colo- rado. Came to Dakota county on May 14, 1856, and settled on the place now known as the Col. Warner farm. Afterwards moved to Blyburg, where he died January 11, 1880. His v.'idow still survives him, and is now residing in Homer. JouN Ryan drove off of John Feenan's flatboat at Covington with a yoke of oxen and a wagon containing all he had in the world. May 15, 1856. Took a claim two miles west of Jackson, where he lived until his death. He was born in 1820, in Ireland, and svas mar- ried in 1S55 to Afargaret DeWire. Had nine child- ren, five of whom are dead. Those living are John, Mrs. Kate Chirk, "Mrs. Julia Waters and Annie. He died at his home, near Jackson, in 1892. James Eyan cametu Dakota county May 15, 1856, and took a claim two miles west of Jackson. Died in the f dl of 1863. His wife and two children — James and Catharine — live on the old place. John Naffzigek found his way to Dakota county in the spring -of 1856, and opened up the first store 192 wakkkk's histoky of dakota county ever established at Dakota City. Served as county judge one terra and as comtnissioiier two terms. Rep- resented Dakota county in tlie 5th, 6th and 7th sessions of the state legislature, and has held other minor offices. Married to Miss Lnrinda Packard. Has two sons and four daughters — William and Frank; Mrs. George Niebulir, Mrs. Henry Niebuhr, Mrs. Harriet Wanhoz and Mrs. John Grimm. John JN'affziger was born in Bavaria, and came to America in 1826. Has always been a prominent and energetic citizen since he settled in Dakota county. His wife died July 5, 1891. William Adaia. as conductor of a "prairie schoc^ner" loaded with provisions and drawn by three yoke of oxen, with ' D. W. Lowry as assistant, wended his way over the uninhabited prairies of northwestern Iowa, until the 22id day of May, 1856, when he beheld the beautiful Missouri valley, but it was a dift'srent sight Irom that which we behold in 1893. No beauti- ful farms and pleasant homes, no towns or villages dotted its surface — all was wild jungles and lonely prairies. He crossed the Missouri river at Sergeant Bluffs and landed upon Kebraska soil in what he sup- posed from previous reports was the thriving town uf Dakota City, but no town was to be seen. No sign of habitation. Nothing but willows as far as the eye could penetrate. He started westward along a path, and going over a mile, he came to one lonesome look- ing house, which constituted the town of Dakota Cit-y." It consisted of four log walls, dirt roof, no floor, one hole for a door and another for a window. The build- ing was occupied by B. F. Chambers, John McQuilkin and Samuel McCartney, and afterwards became the "Chihuahua House," under the management of Dr. J> D. M. Crockwell. Took a claim adjoining Dakota City on the west, a portion of it now being the Cheney farm. Built a log house and spent the remainder of the season breaking on hia own land and athers, doing SET-rLEES OF 1856. 193 his cooking all snrainer on a log fire in front of his cabin, utilizing it at night to drive away mosquitoes. Next year sold his claim and bought another one halt a mile farther west, a portion of which he owns at the present time. Farmed during 1857, '58 and '59. Moved to 8ioux City in the fall of 1859, and tauohr, school till July, 18HU, when he resigned and came t.i Dakota City to sell goods forC. F. Eckhart, with whom he remained until 1870, when he went into the real estate business, and continued there until tbe spring ui 1877, when he was appointed clerk at Ft. Peck agency, Montana, which place he left in the fall of 1880, owing 1o the failing health of one of his children. Was ap:r pointed postal clerk on the Sioux City and Omaha rail- road in the spring of 1881, which position he now holds. Was appointed treasurer of Dakota county hy the board of commissioners^ to fill an unexpired term, in 1863, and at the next election was chosen for another term. Was a member of the board of regents of the State LTniversity for nine years, being elected by the state legislature for a term of three years, and at its close was •elected bj the people for a term of six years. Has been a. prominent member of the Methodist church for a number ot years, and an active Sabbath scliool worker in Dakota City, where his family Las resided continu- ously since July, I860- Was married, the second time, to Martha F. Ford, of Griuuell, Iowa, November 11, 1857. Has ten children li^'iag. six sons and four daughtei'S. His two oldest daughters are resting iij the cemetery at Dakota City. He was born in West- moreland county. Pa., April 17, 1832. Spent his earlier years on a farm, until at the age of 16 years,, when he went to West Lebanon, Indiana county. Pa., .•and was engaged in teaching school and in the mercan- tile business. Was married to Isabella McCartney, of South Eend, September 15, 1853. She died April 12. 1855.. Ill June, 1S55,, he shipped a stock of goods from 194 WAENEe's HlSTCfET OF DAKOTA COUNTY. Pittsburg, Pa., by river to Muscatine, Iowa. Went to Grinnell, Iowa, in a hacl^; drawn by fonr horses, wliich were driven by himself. Opened up a general store, and the next spring sold ont and, as we have stated be- fore, launched his "prairie schooner" upon the wild prairies of the west, and came to Nebraska to "grow up with the country" and to be numbered among her up- right and honorable citizens. Plere he has watched the march of civilization; the settlement of a wild coun- try; the work of the ax and breaking plow; the vise of towns and villages, and every industry tliat helps to make a rich and prospeious country. Thirty-six years ago he plodded along behind two yoke of oxen and a breaking plow on his claim west of Dakota City, to- day he rides over the selfsame ground on the cars as a postal clerk. David Boals was born in Center county, Pa., and after learning the carpenter trade, came to Dakota county in April, 1S56. Married in his nati\'e state in 18-17, to Maunah J. Boyd, wlio was one of the tirst white women to arrive at Dakota City. Took a olain> about five miles west of Dakota City, where they lived to endure the hardships of pioneer life, and to witness the storms and the sunshine of the years to the present time. Has been a member of the school board of his district tor many years. Has two sons and two d;iugh- ters — William H., Geoi'ge L., Mrs. Mareiida Plank and Lizzie. Sarah A. died July 4, 1856, and was either the first or second white child buried in the county. William Bouton was born in Delaware county. JN^. Y., and came t6 Dakota county in the spring ol 1856. Took a claim about fonr miles northwest of Da- kota City, where he has resided to the present time, witnessing the transformation of the wild prairies into rich and prosperous farms. Was married to Rose Bates, sister of Leonard Bates, April 4. 1861, by Rev. Rrown. She died, and he was married a second time. SK'JTLEKS OF 1856. 195 to Susan Biggerstaff. IIa3 five children, two suas iimJ tlii'ee dangiitei'ti. G. HATTEiSTBACu cauie to Dakota county and opened up a grocery store in Ornadi, in the sprinu; of 185(5. Was one of the founders of Covington. Died in Sioux City, where live cliildren now live — JMathan, Ludwig, Mitchel, David and Mrs. D. A. Magee. Two of Ins children are in Deadwood, S. D.^Joseph and Aaron. Patkick O'Neil wa3 born in Ireland in March, 1825, Married there to Bridget McNarnura, April 12, 184:7. nnd arrived in America June 17, of the same year. On the 10th day of May, 1856, he found his ^vav to Da- koti county, where he has lived to the present time, ou « farm near Jackson. Has three sons and three daughters— -Steplien. Mi U> be known as a leader of bis party. Was :Hlways autspoke.n in hjs views, a good and energetic 196 waehee's history or uakota county. L'itizen, and accumulated considerable property. ■ He was born in Canavee, County Cork, Ireland, February 20, 1822. Was married to Catharine Lucy, February 18, 1846. Came to America in 1852, arriving at Bos- ton in May of that year, and proceeded to the '-far west." Died at his home in Summit precincr, Dakota county, Neb., on Saturday, August 14, 1886, at 9 p. m., aged 64 years, 5 months and 24 days. His disease was dropsey. Had been complaining for some six months, bnt was confined to his bed bnt two months. The funeral, which was on Monday, August 16, 1886, was very large, friends from all parts of the county and many from Sioux City, being in attendance. The services were conducted by Rev. Father Clements, of Hubbard, under the rites of the Catholic church, of which the deceased had been a member for many years. It will be remembered that the very day on which he died the pioneers and old settlers of Dakota county were holding their fifth annual reunion in Hileman's grove. He had been their vice president for two years, and the greatest sympathy was expressed for their ab- sent member. Resolutions to this effect were unani- mously adopted by the association, with a rising vote — honors such as no other old settler had ever received from the society. It was a touching and fitting token of remembrance kindly paid to one of the oldest pio- neers. His wife and seven children survive him, six sons and one daughter^Dennis, Jerry F., Corneliua H., Daniel E., John C, Michael J. and Katie L. DAJTIEL DUGGAN. Behold that man upon the bier A noble, honest pioneer* On Nebraska's virgin soil He began with pluck to toil. And with pluck and wisdom mixed .He launched his plow betwixt, Where coyote and savage trod And broke the maiden sod. SETTLEBS OF 1856. 197 With iron will and manly strengtli Ele saw himself at length Surrounded with kine and golden grain, (lis noble work of hand and brain. liut alas! for human strife, Man is doomed to part from life. Whether rich or poor. Death knocks at his hall and door. Friend and patron of my muse. These feeble lines of mine excuse, Accept and not decline As they are sent to thee and thine. Hubbard, Aug. 16, 1886. L. E. Feancis a. Robinson was born Januarv 12, 1825, in Manchester, Indiana. Came to Dakota tsity, May 28, 1856. Took a claim one-half mile north" of that town, and saw the iirst paper ever printed in Dakota City taken from the press. Married to Zernah Fisher, Januai-y 12, 1859, in Whiteside county, Illinois. His wife died, leaving one son, 0. Elmer. Michael McKivEuaAN was born in 1827,in Ireland Irel-md. and came to Dakota county June 1, 1856, witln Father Trecy's colony. Was one of the fonndera of SETTLERS OF 1856. 199 Covington. Married in the fall of 1855 to Bridget Manning. She died October 11, 1881. There are two children living — Matthew and Delia. Four children have died. James McHenky was born September 13,1837, in St. Louis, Mo., where he lived until 1856, when he was employed by the Northwestern Fur company, and took passage on a steamer for the upper Missouri river, landiiig in Dakota county at old Omadi, June 9, 1856. The boat then proceeded to Ft. Eandall, where lie worked for the fur company at their trading post at that place. In 1831 lie established a store in Vermil- lion, Dakota Territory. He went into the army in the fall of the same year. Again settled at Vermillion in 1865, where he was engaged in the mercantile and mill- ing business. Was married tr) Mary F. Jones, one ot the early school teachers of the county, in ilay, 1865, at Jackson, JSfeb. In 1877 located in Jackson, and ran a saw mill there; moved to the Logan valley in 1879, where he was proprietor of a grist mill near Wakefield. Moved to the farm along the northern boundary of the Winnebago reservation, where he now resides, iu 1883, since which time lie has been engaged in farming, and in the milling business in Blyburg and south of Dakota City, two miles. Has six children living — two sons and four daughters. Thomas B. Jones was born April 16, 1842, in New York, and came with Father Trecy's colony to Dakota county, June 1, 1856. Married in 1868 to Catharine Ryan. Has ten children — -James J., John F., Thomas D., Mary Eilen, Sarah B., Katie, Maggie, Laura, Hattie and Lucy. Lives on his father's old place, four miles west of Jackson. Charles Boyle was born in 1808, in Belfast, Ire- land, and at the age of 22 years, came across the ocean to Philadelphia, ?a. Lived- five years a few miles i^outhwest of Dubuque, Iowa. In the summer of 1856 204 waenbe's history of dakota county. landincr here June 8th 1856. He settled near Covinp- ton where he has resided to the present time, witness- ing the transformation of a wild and uninhabited land to a rich and thickly settled community, as we heliold it todaT. Married to Catharine Donleii at Dakota City, by Prof. Samuel A ughey, May 2, 1867. Post- office, South Sioux City. Andrew Johns was born 1834, in Ohio, and came to Dakota county, July 13, 1856, settled in Blyburg, where his wife died leaving two sons — George W. and Joseph H.; three daughters— Mrs. Wesley McPherson. Mre.Cora Stubbs and Mrs. Sarah A. Harris. P. O, St. James. D. W. Griffy in company with W. C. McBeath followed an old Indian trail from Omadi to Covington in the summer of 1856, and along their journey tiiey saw no signs of civilization. I). W. Gritfey was born June 24, 1834, in Kentucky. Was married a second time to Florence McConnell. Has one son, Martin W. Was one of the first party that evei- reached Pike's Peak, in 1858- Enlisted in the war for the Union, in 1st, and 2nd. Colorado Cavalry, and fought the "bush-whackers" of Missouri. Postoffice, Dakota City. Thomas Curkan was born in Tipperary Co.,. Ireland, December 23, 1823, where he was married, and came to Dakota county, in the summer of 1856. Kept the first store in St. Johns. His wife died in 1861 leaving three children — John, James and Maggie. lie mar- ried a second wile, whu died in 1877, leaving two children — Thomas and Mary. He died at his residence in Summit precinct, March 21, 1890, of lung fever. Henry F. Shull was horn November 1. 1840, in DeKalb county, Ii^diana. Moved to Iowa in fall of 1855, and on the 15th day of August, 1856, stood for the first time upon the soil of Dakota county, in com- pany with his father Daniel Shull. Was employed as SETTLERS OF 18ii6. 205 cook at the Slinll and llartmau shingle mill in Oinadi, iind afterwards cooked in Henry Ream's hotel. Bought a claim on Fiddlers Ci-eek, and moved tJiere with the i-^liiill family in the fall of 1856, where he still resides three itiiies west of Homer. Married January 17, 1882, to • Olive Taylor, a daughter of VVrn. Taylor. Has three daughters — Hattie, Nellie and Effie. Patrick Ryan was horn in Tipperary county Ireland, 1827, and came to Dakota county, September 8. 1856. Took a claim in what is how known as Sum- mit precinct, and soon afterwards bniit a comfortable i-esidence. Was married to a daughter of Wh). Hogan shortly after ccjming to Nebraska. Was a hard work- itig man, accnmiilating considerable property on his farm, and elected County Commissioner on the Demo- crntic ticket, November 6, 1877, but died January 18, 1880, before the expiration of his term of office. His wife havingdied October 11, 1871, leaving three child- ren, one daughter and two sons, M-ho are still living — one, Wni. H. elected sheriff in 1889- The daughter died Februa'-y, 1872. John Joyce took his first tramp in Dakota county from Covington to the old town of Logan, on the morning of November 26, 1856, and as he plodded along he had ample opportunity to view the wild land which everywhere met his gaze. He little dreamed of the vast changes which a few fleeting years would bring to this uninhabited country as well as to his own financial standing. Lived in Logan in the winter of '56 and '57 and made rails and cut saw logs. The snow wiis over four feet deep in the timber and the weather intensely cold, but still he worked on, and to- day as you di-ive by his pleasant country liome, fonr miles west of Dalvota City, just remember how he got his start in the world. Took a claim in Brushy Bend timber and afterwards bought the farm where he now lives of Horace Dutton. There was another wise thing 202 warnek's history op uakota coukty. said to his friends: '-Now I liave two pieces of land and as the CO u-ii try grows in wealth and prosperity there is certain to be a railroad bnilt across tlie river at Sioux City and thence sonthward, and it is bound to cross one or the other of these tracts of land." We will now follow him down through the years and see liow far sighted he was. He set to work bnildiug a log cabin, lived in a tent, nsed water o.f Covington lake and found it healthy. In October, 1856, went down to Omadi in company with Alonzo piloses, and pur- chased a keg of nails of Wm. C. McBeath, paying therefor 10 cents per ponnd, while at the same time Sioux City merchants were selling them at 12^ cents per pound. They passed over the ground on which now stands Dakota City and found hut one log house, covered with dirt for a roof, winch was owned by J. D. M. Crockwell, who was the founder of Dakota City. September 11, 1856, moved his family into the pi'e- emtiou cabin which after the lapse of more than thirty years of changing scenes is still standing — a time honored land mark of the early settlement of our county and a relic of the years that have passed away. Purchased a shingle mill in November and manufact- ured shingles all through that cold and stormy winter of '56 and '57, which will ever be rememl.'ered for its foj'ty davs of continuous freezing weather. Was ap- appointed postmaster at Covington in 1858; was aho justice of the peace. May 1851, appointed clerk of tlie U. S. district court for the Third judicial district of the territory of Nebraska and held that office six years. In 1864 was appointed receiver of the IT. S. land ofHce for Dakota City land district and held tliat office four years and seven months, and on settlement of accounts was found short two cents, which amount was at once forwarded to the First National Bank of Omaha, In October, 1877, Col. Martin bought one- half of tlie Nebraska Eagle: afterwards sold his in- terest and founded the Argus in May, 1880. During SETl'LEES OF 1856. 203 liis joiirnHlistic life he had written a contiiined story — "The Conflict; Love or Money" — and published in the Eagle and tlie Argus, which is remarkable for its great miinber of chapters and the liberal comments it receiv- ed at the hands of the Neliraska newspaper men. liis wife died April 16, 1887, of congestive chills, leaviuo- three daughters and one son. In the fall of 1886 South Sionx City was laid out along the east banks of Silvei' Lake, adjoining his old pre-emption. Land rapidly increased in valuation and in the spring of '87 the town began to boom. The first of J uue, 1887, Col. Martin laid out his pre-emption land. What a contrast be- tween the two scenes — that of settling on his pre-emp- tion in I856and layingitout in town lots in 1887! A life time ol'teri embraces aperiod of many wonderful changes. Was married a second time to Louisa Hansen of Jackson county, Minn., July 18, 18S8. He died at South Sioux City in 1891. Col. Martin was born March 26, 1817, in Bath, Grafton county, "New Hampshire. At- tended tlie public schools ten years and remembered when Rev. David Sutherland was paid his salary as minister by taxing all property holders. At 18 years of age attended a Literary Institute in Loraine cmmty, Ohio, and there studied the languages four years. Taught school in Miami county, Ohio, in 1839 and traveled as a missionary in Ohio up to 1844. Then became postmaster in Athens county, Ohio, and was married at that place to Nancy Dunlap, May 6, 1843. Moved to western Pennsylvania and then to New Orleans, December, 1849. Spent the year of 1850 in southern Arkansas near the Louisana line; moved to southern Illinois in 1855, and then to Leavenworth, Kansas, wlwre he took passage on the steamer, "Ara- bia," for Covington, JS'ebraska. This completes the story of a busy life. William Fkazier was born in York county, Penn- sylvania, JSToventber 7, 1820. Came from Council Bhiifs, Iowa, to Dakota county on the steamer Arabia 200 Warner's history of Dakota ooukty. earae witli a colony of Catholics from the latttr place and settled on a tract of land adjoining old St. Julius. A portion of the colony came a month before, under the charge of Father Trecy. He had ten children, si.x of whom .-jre living — Mrs. Miiggie Ploltani, of Key- noldtf, Indiana; J\lrs. John li. JVIyeis, Homer; Mrs. i]lla Burd, H. S. and Pati'ick H., of Emerson; Michael M., Jackson. CiiARLKS C. Bliven was born Octol)er 30, 1811, in Washington county, Rliode Island. At about the age (if ten years he ctune MJth his p; rents to Allega- ny county, i\e\v York, where he leai'ned the carpenter trade, in about 1832 came to Tioga county. Pa., and followed the carpenter trade. In 1842 came to RocIj county, Wis., and worked at his trade. In 1850 re- moved to Fayette county, Iowa. Also worked at his trade in Davenport, Iowa, building the first frame building there. Was married a second time, FeUruai-y 20, 1867. In 1853 came to Minnesota. Two years later returned to Davenport. In 1856 came to Dakota county, and worked at his trade until 1862, when he reujoved to Henry county, HI; in 1866 to Washinujton county 111., and returned to Dakota county in 1870, where he located on a farm six miles due south of Da- kota City, built a substantial dwelling, good barn, and improved his farm in general. Mr. Bliven was always a quiet, peaceal)le and upright citizen, with a lai-ge cir- cle of friends and few enemies. In 1883 his wife died. Mr. Bliven then lived with Ids daughter, Mrs. Anna Bougns, nutil his death, August 17, 1884. L. M. Huffman was born in 184-3, and came to> Dakota county with his step-father, Isaac Monroe, June 2 J, 1856. Married to Fidela Shook. Has three sons and three daughters. Two children have died. Lives in Blyburg. Isaac Monroe caine to Dakota county June 20. 1856, and settled on a farm south of Homer. Died in sp;ttleks of 1858. 201 Kansas July 4, 1880. There are two of his own child- ren and one step-son living — John, Mary Monroe and L. M. Huffman. EoBERT CoLLiNGWOOD Came to Dakota county June, 1856. Died in western Nebraska., leaving eighc children, two of whom reside in Dakota connty — Mrs. Woods Hileman and Lelioy. Mrs. John Brassfield, Mrs. "Will Crosby and Bird live in Woodbuiy county, Iowa. John Bkadnt crossed the Missouri river into Da- kota'county with his father, Jeremiah Braunt, June 26, lS56,^and settled on the old Josiah Davis place. Was married to Mary E. Pilgrim. Has one son and two daughters — John H., Julia and Lillie. Lives on the old Spencer Moore phice, one mile north ot Homer. James Gaeneij was born in 1815, and celebrated the 4th of July, 1856, by settling in Dakota county, where he i-emained until 1865, when he removed to Waterloo, Neh. He died at that place Friday, Marcli 21, 189{), leaving two sons — Aleck and Leander; four daughters — Mrs. Wm. Armour, Mrs. Hattio Boden- bender, Mrs. James Ashley and Mrs. John Paige. Col. CirAKLES D. Maktin, stood upon the deck of tlie "Arabia" on the evening of July 8, ]856, and as she passed ai'ound the high bluffs below Blyburg his •eyes for the first time rested upon Dakota county. In those days Col. Martin was young and in his prime — seeking a home in the "far west." The steamer landed at Omadi and unloaded a steam saw mill lor A. H. Baker & Co., and while this was being done he went ashore and took in the town. It was night when the boat landed at Covington-, and the next morning found liim on an exploring journey in search of a home. Alter looking over the country thoroughly, he located •on a pre-emption near Covington and east of the lake. He was looking ahead in the years to come. Purchas- ing another piece .of land further down tlie river, he 206 wakkee's history or Dakota county lie did to get a start on the road to fortune, and that was to marry Miss Phffibe Wigie, sister of Jesse Wigle, November 14, 1861. The wedding took place at the residence of the bride's brother, which stood on what is now known as the Capt. O'Connor lane, Eev. Torrnan otHciating. They at once moved to his farm where they liave ever since resided, and witnessed the settling up of the wild land around them. Have adopted three children and celebrated their silver wedding, November li, 1886. John Joyce was born June 5, 1837, in Duchess county, N. Y.; was educated in the public schools. At the age of 12 years went to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was engaged in farming. Left Wisconsin in the spring of 1856 for Iowa and thence to Nebraska. Patrick Aiiesn was born in 1827, and came to Dakota county in 1856. Lived in the western part of the county until his death, April 7, 1874. William Gribble was born in 1828, in England, and came to America about 1834, settling in Dakota county in 1856- Took a claim in Brushy Bend. Mar- ried to Lorinda Logan about 1855. Died in 1881 at Sioux City, Iowa, leaving a wife and four daugliters. David Si-iull was born in Indiana, in 1848, and came to Dnkota county October 14, 1856, taking a claim on Fiddlers Creek, January 1, 1857, where he has remained continuously to the present time When Samuel Watts came along in 1857, sui'veying the county he found that out of the entire male population along this creek, thirteen in number, all were fiddlers but David. Watts i)nmediately named it Fiddlers Creek. Was married to Anna Winkhaus, ]\Lirch 13, 1879. He established "Hillside Dairy" on liis farm two and one- half miles west of Homer, in 1881. Died in July, 1891, leaving a wife and one daughter. Amos Lami^son while in the prime of life turned his face westward and crossed the Missouri river into CHARLES D. MARTIN. (See page 201.) SETTLERS OF 1866. 209 Dakota county, October 25, 1856. He hadeome to see for himbelf if the wonderful stories he had heard of ^'ebraska were true, and he was not long in coming to the conclusion that he had found a land in which he washed to spend the remainder of his days. He moved his family to Dakota county in November of the same year. Early, in the ujoihL ice hegan run- ning in the river and everything indicated that an ex- tremely severe winter was at hand. He is one of the few who still live to tell abont that ever memorble cold and stormy winter of '56 and '57. He lived in Omadi that winter. Hearing about the wonderful rnshes around Blyburg lake where stuck were snccessfnlly wintered without hay or grain, lie tried the experiment, but be- fore winter was half over he lost every head of his cattle. The following spring moved down to Blyburg and opened up two wood yards on the bank of the river. Those who had occasion to visit Blyburg in early days will remember the big bend in that locality — it was a few hundred yards by land across the neck, but a num- ber of miles by water Well, at the lower end of the bend he had a wood yard , also one at the upper end, and he generally wooded up a steam boat from his first yard, then in tlie afternoon or the next day would step across the narrow isthmus and sell wood from his other yard to the same boat, which had been a day or so in getting around the hig bend, filled with ugly snags and treacherous sand-bars. So you see this is the way Mr. Lampson utilized the crookedness of the "old muddy" and made "piles of money" thereby. This was one kind of "crookedness" that was "straightforward." In Oc- tober, 1861, he joined the army against the Indian foes; served until May, 1862. Can remember when Blyburg was all prairie except large elm trees next to the lake and river, and the grass grew to a great height. While riding on a large horse tnrough the grass, was wet to the shoulders with the dew, so the reader can easily imagine how tall the grass must have been. Amos 210 WAENBk'b HISTOEV of DAKOTA OO0NTT. Lampson was born July 24, 1815,' in Byron, Genese^ county, New York. At the age, of twenty-one moved to Wisconsin and built a bridge across Fox river, Hewed every stick of the timber, planks and all. Worked in a mill in Missouri five years and was married to Anna Jackson, of Clark county, Missouri, in 1843. Moved to Lee county, Iowa, then to Clark county, and in Oc- tober, 1856, started for Nebraska. His wife died in Homer, September 5, 1888, leaving nine children— four sons, Albert, George, William and Frank; five daugh- ters, Mrs. Lorenzo Whitehorn, Mrs. Caleb Lane, Mrs. Elias Shook, Efiie and Florence. Gen"- Joseph Hollman was born in Williamsport, Wabliington county, Maryland, April 29, 1825. At- tended Jefferson college, Pennsylvania, and afterwards studied law at Kagerstown. He canght the "western fever,'' and leaving his home January 19, 1846, jour- neyed to Lee county, Iowa, where two years later he was elected prosecuting attorney. Was appointed by President Pierce as United States district attorney for Nebraska territory, and settled in Dpkota county on May, 1856, on his preemption adjoining Dakota City, whicli he still owns. He returned to Lee county, Iowa, in 1859, where he was elected as state senator. After remaining there for a few years he again came to Da- kota county, where he has ever taken an active part in all public affairs pertaining to. the welfare ot the peo- ple. It is not necessary, to give further sketch of his life here, as a full account is given in, diiferent parts of this book.; Samuel Whitehorn was born in Rutland county, Vermont. Went to Yates county at the age of seven- teen, where he learned the tailoring trade. Next moved to Ontario county, and thence to Seneca Falls in 1837, where he worked at his trade two years. Came to Da- kota county November 20, 1856, and settled in Logan, where lie kept a boarding house. Moved to Dakota City aKTTLEKS OF 1856. 213 the following year and opened np a brick yard, manu- facturing the first brick made in Dakota City. In 1872 located on a farm three miles west of Dakota City, where he lived until he moved to the state of Washington. En- listed in 1862, in Co. I, 2nd Nebraska Cavalry and served thirteen months. Married. October 17, 1837, to Mary Beach of Seneca Falls, New York. She died June 11, 1846, leaving two sons — Leander and Lor- enzo, and a daughter who is dead. Was married a second time to Sniah A. Evans, of Seneca Falls, New York. Has three cliildren living by his second wife — one son and two daughters, George C, Mrs. Ralph Goodwin and Nellie. His daughter, Emma F., who was loved and respected by a large number of friends died August 21, 1889. Alanson Baker .came to Dakota county, Novem- ber, 1856, and helped Father Martin to manufacture shingles near Covington. Married to Lizzie George — a sister of Mrs. E. L. Wilbur. Has one son and two daughters, Alanson, Sarah and Avis. Fostoffice, Ak- ron, Iowa. Ceittenden McDonald came to Dakota county November 20, 1856, was afterwards badly hurt by fall- ing from a tall cottonwood tree, where he had climbed after an eagle's nest, and soon afterwards went east. William H. Collins came to Dakota county in 1856, lost a lot of cattle that winter. At that time owned the Adam Sides farm, enlisted in Co. L, 2nd Nebraska cavalry. He afterwards went to Missouri where he died. Alexandek Fosn came to Dakota county in the fall of 1856. Lived in Omadi, afterwards moved to Dunlap, Iowa, where he now resides. Has two chil- dren, Charles S. and Mrs. Julia Pease of Dunlap, Iowa. Charles S. Ford was born June 17, 1847, in Buf- falo, N. Y.; came with his parents to Dakota county in 214 WAKNEit's IIISTOKY 01 DAKOTA CdfN'l^. the fall of 1856 and helped his father put up liay near {)inadi. Attended the first school ever tanght in the county, atOmadi,by Miss Piitham, afte'rwai'ks attended school at the same place taught by Dr. G. "\V. Wilkin- s^iiii. Ilis parents moved to Sei'geant Bluffs and soon afterwards returned to Nebraska, locating on the Tim i\liirphy place, i]orth of where Homer now stands. From here they went to DesMoines, Iowa. Chas. Ford again returned to Dakota City in 1867 and was em- [)loyed in the Bates House. Taught school in a little uld school house that stood near Col. Baird's old house; went to Ponea ai:d taught two terms of school in 1869. in 1870 opened up a general, store near the Oaks' mill, and in the fall of 1871 he and Sam A. Combs bought the Frontier Mills. Here in connection with tl),e mill- ing business he operated a general store near by. Was married to Harriett Myers, September ]7, 1872, at -Jackson. Neb. Sold his share in the mill to Col. Baird in the fall of 1873 and moved to Ponea where he bought out Samuel Gamble's store and remained in this busi- ness Tintil 1881, when he moved to. Bancroft and opened up a general store. In 1883 he sold out and again moved to Ponea and built a large skating rink 36.tll0 leet, with a gallery on all sides. This was said to have been the finest skating rink this side of Omaha. The "roller skate craze" became very dull and he sold the building. In the spring of 1888 started the first hard- ware store in Homer with Hugh Myers, undei* the tirin name of Ford & Myers. He soon afterwards bought Myers' share. Has five children, four sons a;nd one daughter. Mr. Foi'd nas been an eye witness to most of the improvements which we behold in Dakota county to-day and is now located and doing business within three miles of the place where he first lived in the county more than thirty-five years ago. "Was appointed postmaster at Homer in 1893. John W. Verdbn came to Dakota county in 1856 SKTTiEKS OF 1856. 215 and began operating a saw mill in Covington, October, 1856. Afterwards run a saw mill in Brushy Bend. Went to Colorado and built another saw mill. He also had three brothers, Frank, Thomas and Daniel, all early settlers of Logan. Stephen Ulleey came to Dakota county in 1856 and engaged in the mercantile business in Omadi. Afterwards moved on the old Charley Eckhart farm two miles south of Dakota City: Moved to Omaha and then to Missouri; was in Ohio when last heard from. CoL. John Plyel arrived in Dakota county in 1856, and founded the town of "Plyburg," afterwards called Blyburg. The town was named after its founder, and located in the southern part of the county. Some claim that this man's name was John Bly, but this is a mistake. He afterwards operated a drug store in the town of Omadi, went to Odell, Iowa. Ben.tamin Tbusdale, Bnckwalter Bros., John Tulo, Wm. Burnett, Thomas Prior and others came to Da- kota county in 1856, forming a coal company, and went to prospecting for coal along the high bluffs in Bly- burg. This was the first "coal excitement" -the county ever had, but as they did not find anything but a ten inch vein they soon abandoned the project, Ueiah Nickkkson came here in 1856, and was engineer in the Omadi steam saw mill; owned a large tract of timber in Blyburg, where his wife died and was buried. Went to Woonsocket, R. I., and died there. John Hommell came to Dakota county in 1856, worked at the carpenter trade, owned a farm in Bly- burg where his wife's father, John Fisher, died and was nearly eaten up by hogs before any one knew of his death. Moved to Omaha. Alfred Elam came to Dakota county in 1856 and pre-empted the place now owned by Jacob Leamer, Went to Ft. Scott, Kansas. 216 William Silence came to Dakota county in 1856; was six feet and two inches in lieijjht and built for a light- ing man, but one of our leading pioneers who is still living in the county gave him about all the fight he wanted one summer day in 1858. Silence lived on the Wm. Taylor land and his opponent lived in Omadi. Tliey were to meet half way, each one to be accom- panied by his seconds, judges and friends. They met somewhere on the bottom north of where the Oaks mill was built, and it was not long before a great crowd assembled to witness the exciting conflict. Peo- ple could be seen coming across the prairies from all directions — from the hills and valleys — from Omadi, Logan and Dakota City. Silence married Ziber Mil- lage's daughter and afterwards moved to Missouri and then to Nebraska City, JSteb. ZiBEE MiLLAGE camc to Dakota county in 1856, and lived on the Wm. Taylor place. Afterwards moved to Missouri where he died. Joseph Imhoff came to Dakota county in 1S56; went into partnership with C. C. Bliven in the carpen- tering business at Omadi. Afterwards went to Ne- braska City", and then to Lincoln, where he became pro- prietor of the Commercial House. SETTLERS OF 1857. John W. Hazlegeove was born in Kentucky, in 1842 and began pioneer life in Dakota county March 10, 1857. Was married to Margia Officer near Dakota City, November 30, 1862. Has three sons and four daughters, William I., Charles E., John L., Mrs. V^'anny Gray, Eose M., Mary H. E. and Georgia B. lives on a farm west of Dakota City. Mr. Hazle- grove says: "the first year I was in the county I mowed my hay with a scythe and cut my wheat with a cradle. There was not a njowing machine nor a. SETTLERS OF 1857. 217 reaper in the comity. I operated the first reaper ever used on Elk Creek Valley. I cut grain for Hogans, Beacom, Jones, Ryaus, McCormick- and for several others on the bottom. William Aemoue, in March, 1857, crossed over the river to Dakota county and camped on the present site of Ponca. When he returned tlie followina day he found the bottom all covered with water from tTie njelt- ing snow and the ground still being frozen orevented the water from escaping. He supposed the whole bot- tom was one vast swamp and at that time had no nse for it. But during that year when the water had sub- sided he again ventured to the county, and has lived thirty-seven years on this supposed "swamp," five miles southwest ot Dakota City. Married in 1864 to Jennie Garner. Has five sons and three daughters, Leander, William, Henry, George, "Marvin, Lucy G., Jeannette and Nellie. Dennis Akmour was born March 29, 1838, in Delaware county, N. Y., and landed iu Dakota county at Omadi, on the steamboat, "x\sa Wilgus." That riummer raised a crop on the John Braunt farm, and took a claim in 1858, where he now resides, four miles southwest of Dakota City. Went to Colorado in 1860 and engaged in freighting. Enlisted in Co. I, 2nd Ne- braska Cavalry, in the war of the Rebellion. Was mar- ried to Miss Mary E. Hileman on Christmas day, 1872, Rev. J. Zimmerman officiating. Has six children, three sous and three daughters. James O. Fisher stepped upon Dakota county soil from a flat boat at Covington, April 4, 1857, and gazed upon the wild country around him, wondering what the future had in store for him. He went to Logan where he lived about live years engaged in farming; took a claim of 160 acres about five miles west of Dakota City, where he is now residing. Was married to Mary Dut- ton(a sister of Horace Dutton,)on the 25th day of No- 218 Warner's history oj uakota county. veinber, 1858. Mr, Fisher was elected county commis- sioner on tiie democratic ticket in 1859, serving three years, and represented Dakota connty in the 9th terri- torial legislature, which convened at Omaha, Jaimai'y 7th, 1864. Has been connected with the school board in his district for more than twenty years, and has al- ways taken an active part in the promotion of public schools, as well as all other projects looking to the ad- vancement and stability oi the general welfare of Dakcjta county, and has lived to see the M'ide Missouri valley giadnaljy ti'ansformed from wild prairies to a thickly settled community teeming Vv^ith life and activity. Has been a witness to every movement and every step of progress in the county, from the building of fence;? to the erection of the court house; from the breaking up of the prairie to the rise and flourish of towns and villages, and from the old time "fords'- to the building of costly bridges, grading of highways, and the tri- umphant march of lines of railways across the country. On the 26th of August, 1882, was appointed by the Pioneers and Old Settlers' Association lo represent Dakota precinct on the Committee of Arrangements. Hon. E. K. Valentine attended their first meeting in Baird's grove, September 23, 188'2, and some of the politicians wanted him to make a speech. The matter was referred to Mr. Fisher, who then and there baiTed out the introduction of politics into the society, and no one sinct) has dared to broach the subject of politics in public at their annual reunions. "No, gentlemen, said Mr. Fisher, "we want one society, at least, in the county free from politics." Many censured him at the time for this remark, but as the years pass on, all will adtnit tliat he was right. His wife died November 19, 1889< leav- ing seven children — three sons and four daughters, Ir- ving, Henry, Oliver, Mrs. Etta Vosburg, Mrs. Myra Taylor, Ciirrence and Mary. James O. Fisher was born in Blackstone, Mass., and raised in Connecticut. He went to California in 1852, returned to Connecticut in SETTLERS OF 1857. 219 1856, and the following year made the most important move of his life — came to Nebraska, '-and grew up with the country." CoL. Baknahas Bates drove np to Luther Wood- ford's residence in Sergeant Blnffs on the 16th day of April, 1857. Leaving his team there he proceeded to cross the Missouri river to Dakota City in a skiff. About this time preparations were being made by the "Town Company'" for the building of the large hotel "Bates House," which for so many yours stood in the northeast portion of Dakota City, and he was employed to go to St. IjOiiis to purchase the necessary ujaterial, returning July 12th. He invested |1,000 of his own moiiey in the enterprise. In the fall of 1857 went to get a load of lime to be used in the b.uilding, at the lime kiln up the ravine west of Col. Baird's house. Slept on the ground and killed a night hawk and cooked it over a tire for breakfast. The hotel was finished in June, 1858, at a cost of |16,000. In the fall of 1859 was elected to the territorial legislature on the demo- cratic ticket and went to Omaha and served during the winter of '59 and '60. Was appointed by President Bu- chanan as postmaster at Dakota City and served seven years. In 1858, in company with Elbridge Lampson, — a brother of Amos Lampson, — E. F. Mason and Stephen UTllery went on a twenty days' hunting expe- dition along the Elkhorn river. Camped right where Norfolk is now located. They saw thousands of elk and soon loaded a four horse team with elk meat. In those days, this was, indeed, a wild barren looking country. The last house on the Elkhorn was eight miles up the river from West Point. Was married a second time in 1860 to Mrs. Hannah Nevell, at Et. Cal- houn, Washington county, Nebraska; soon after rented the Bates House and kept hotel there for two years. In the summer of 1862 moved to his residence in Dakota City where he has since resided. Here his daughter Helen kept the postoffice for a number of years. About 220 waknjik's insTOBY or Dakota county. this time bnilt a bricli school house in Sergeant Bluffs which is still in use. In the fall of 1861 was re-elected to the lower house ot the territorial legislature. In 1865 built the Dakota City brick school house; 1868 A. H. Baker's residence; 1871 the Charley Eckhart store — afterwards owned and used by M. t*. Ayers as a drug store, and helped to build the court house and the Methodist church — all in Dakota City. Has served as notary piiblic and coroner of Dakota county for a num- ber of years; was also deputy clerk of the district court for the northern district of Nebraska. In the lall of 1866 was elected on the democratic ticket as member of the territorial council against Col. 11. Baird. In those days there was a society called "Sons of Malta," which was not overburdened with religious and moral teachings. To illustrate the tendency of its workings the initiation of Col. Bates into the society is here given: It was while he was serving as member of the territorial council at Omaha that his friends induced him to join the society. After taking him through all kinds of ridiculous performances thev gave him a paper to sign which purported to be the constitution of the societj'. Then a grand rush was Uiude for the nearest restaurant where all partook of a hearty supper. Loud was their laughter and jolly indeed was the crowd as if some good joke was about to be perpetrated on some one, and sure enough this was the case. Just as they had finished their supper the proprietor stepped up to Col. Bates and prcssented to hi in the paper he had signed supposed to be the constitution, but instead it was an order on the restaurant for anything the mem- bers might wish. It cost him just $40. Tlie '-Sons of iVIalta" organized a society in the Bates House and had "oceans of fun" out of it, as many of the pioneers- well remember, as well as a number rn in Ireland July^ 11. 1816. Came to America ir\ 1851. Went to Cincin- natti where he married Katie Smith, June 27, 1851. On the 12th day of May, 1857, crossed the Missouri river into Dakota county and located on a piece of land along the south bank of Crystil l^ake, about two miles northwest of Dakota City. Here he lived for many years farming his land, building a substantial dwelling and otiier houses for stock and grain. Planted a good orchard and was an eye witness, to every stroke of improvement for miles around him. Has tliree child- ren — Deaais D., married to Hattie McKinney, Mrs. SETTLERS OF 1857. 225 John Clinton and Mrs. Morgan Heafey. His wife died in South Omaha September 24th 1893. Patkiok Monahan was born in Ireland in 1826 and crossed the ocean to America in 1849, landing at iNew York City. Moved to Ohio and lived seven years in Sandtisky and Dayton. Was fireman on a railroad. Was married at Dayton in 1854, to Miss Bridget Smith, lias six children, two of whom are dead. Three daugh- ters, Katie, Mary and Bridie, and one son, Thomas, are living. Mr. ilonahan had lieard wonderful stories about the iicli and fertile prairies of the west and determined to seek a home there. In May 1857 he bid farewell to his Ohio home and turned his face toward the western land, ana the 21pt day of May found him on board of a steamer, with all his worldly possessions, winding along up the Big Muddy thiough what is to-day Crystal lake. He informed the captain of the boat that his destination was St. Johns. But the captain said the landing was unsafe at that place and he would have to either get off at Logan or Ponca and he chose the forme)-, and so he was leftatLogan among strangei'S in a strange land, except John Finiierty and family who had come with him. Alfred Elani agreed to take him to St. Johns for $7.50. His hired hand, J. O. Fisher, was called in and told to hitch up tiie driving team (a good steady yoke of oxen) and the outfit was soon wind- ing their way toward their long looked for home. They had not proceeded far until they ran into a mud hole and the oxen "got stuck" and all hands had to climb out into the mud and water and wado to the shore. Mrs. Finnerty had to carry her son Dennis and get to the shore with him the best she could. Mr. Monahan took a claim on Pigeon creek, joining John Howard on the southwest. He got some breaking done at the rate of $10.00 per acre and raised a fniall crop that ycai'. Moved down to Covington that fall, and he and John Finnerty bought two lots of John Feenan and 226 WAKNEK'S HISTCiRY OF DAKOTA COUNTY. built a house to live in. In the spring of 1858 he bought the place where he is now living and when South Sioux City took its boom sold all his farm ex- cept live acres to be laid out in town lots. How vast are the changing scenes which Mr. Monahan lias wit- nessed since his advent to the wild primeval lands of Dakota county. Pie has lived to see towns and vil- lages rise up and flourish and crumble and decay until they are known today only in history. He has lived to see a once wild and uninhabited land transformed into a ricb and prosperous community. He saw the rise and fall of Pacific City, which was situated on the present site of South Sioux City, in township 29, range 9 east. William Cunningham came to Dakota county. May 12, 1857, and took a claim which is now a portion of South Sioux City, where he was drowned in 1881, in the high water of that year, His wife and one daughter survive him. The daughter is married to Tim Shanahan. Mr. and Mrs. Shanahan have six children. Petek Myeus joined the great army of emi- grants, and found his way into Dakota county Alay 12, 1857. Took a claim on the bluffs near "William Tay- lor's farm. His wife died in 1859 leaving three child- ren-two sons and one daughter, John E., Geo. W. and Mrs. Emma Rice. Lives in Sioux City, Iowa, was a Union Soldier in the Rebellion, Col. Jesse F. Wakner, piloting a "prairie schoon- er" over the wild and desolate prairies of the west, found a landing place — named Dakota county— May 17, 1857, and probably no pilot while sailing upon the deep, or along the inland rivers was ever more pleased with a landing than he was with the place that was henceforth to be his home. He located on what is now known as the George Leamer farm, lived in a house which he moved from the town of Logan, situated one COL. JESSE F. WAENEE. MRS. HANNAH M. WARNER, (Wife of Col. Jesse F. Wanici.) SETTLE KS OF 1857- 231 lialf mile nortli of liis land. Opened up a farm and made other sulistanlial iiriproveuienis. In company with pioneers took many lumts beyond tiie settlement for deer, elk. etc., and therefore had an opportunity of seeing North Nebraska in its wildest state; Passed over tiie country where Emerson, Wakefield, Wayne, Norfolk, Madison, Wisner and Coleridge are' situated, years before there was a single settler in all that re- gion. In fall of '57 went to eastern Iowa and brouj^ht i)Mck a herd of cows and in summer of '58 drove 200 hogs from central Iowa, from which cows and hogs origi- nated a large portion of tlie stock of early days of Dakota county. Was admitted to the bar before Judge Eleazer Wakly at the District Court lield in Dakota City in 1857. From early manliood he took an active interest in politics and when the break up in parties came and the old Whig party was dissolved he tlirew all his talents and enertjies into the struCTcrie over the slav- ery question out of which the Republican party was born. In '54 and '56 was quite prominent on the ^itnmp which grew into more than local prominence. In 1860 was a delegate from Nebraska to the ever memor- able convention at Chicago which nominated AbraliafU Lincoln. lie leaves to the family his certificate signed by "John M. Thayer, chairuiftn Republican Territorial Committee," which he preserved as one of his choicest treasures. When tiie great war cloud burst with all its fury over our land he started on the day the news of the fall of Sumpter reached him foi' his old home in Iowa to raise lueu for the service, entering the army at once ;is 2nd lieutenent, Ttli Iowa Infantry, without waiting for an offer of a better position, was promoted to the captaincy and after more than three long years of fierce battles and weary marches was compelled to resign on account of injuries and broken health. 8oon after his return to Iowa was chosen colonel of one of the "Border State Regiments'' for home defense but as the enemy was driven so far from the Iowa border the regiment 232 WAKKEii's HliTOEY 01' DjNKOTA COUNTY. ^vas not called on fov duty. Col. AViirner was with Grant, Logan, McCleinard and others who rose to prominence afterwards, in their hrst baptism of tire at Belmont. Commanded his company in the charge that carried the works at Donaldson where he received se- vere injury which caused him many years of suffering and finally carried him away to his eternal home, "Wed- nesday, March 20, 1890, at Dakota City, Nebraska, leaving a wife and six children — Nellie, wife of Dr. E. J . Deliell, who died at Lyons, Nebraska, September 8th 1892; Lee M., Llomer, .^'ebraska■, Clema, wife of E. C. Eauer; Mary M., wife of D. W. Parmelee; Ern- est J., lloscbud Agency S. D., and Moses M., Lyonp, Nebraska. Located in Dakota City in 186-7 and estab- lished a land office ior the purpose of surveying land and locating homesteaders. Selected claims for many of the old settlers of Dakota, Dixon, Cedar, Wayne, Madison and Stanton counties. His familiarity with this country from hunting over it in its wild state en- abled him to I'.arry on this business with much succesii. Practiced law in Dakota City most of the time from 1868 to 1878. In 1869 purchased the old Pilgrim place known as "Pilgrim Hill," eight miles south of Dakota City, and in connection with the farm raised fruit and burned lime — furnished the lime for nearly all the houses that were built in the county at that time, including tlie court house, Methodist churches at Dakota City and Covington and the industrial school building at the Winnebago Agency, also furnislied the rock for the foundation for the latter. Was a pi'esi- dential elector in 1868 and cast Nebraska's maiden vote for Gen. Grant; represented Dakota county in the state legislature in 1879— '80. Took charge as U. S. Indian Agent of the Omaha and WinnebMgo agencies November 1st, 1886, which position he held until September iBth, 1889. The Indians under his administration did remarkably well with their farming and general behavior. August 30, 1889, was presented SETTLERS OF 1857. 233 wi til a gold headed cane by the employes of the Omaha and Winnebago agencies. Col. J. F. Warner was born at Wooster, (Jhio, September :i6, 1826. In 1842 hii^ parents moved to Keoknk county, Iowa, and lived on a farm. Was married to Ilannah M. Wood- ward, September 7th, 1849, at Eichland, Iowa, by Rev. Frederick Lyons, a Methodist minister. The spirit of energy tnrned his face to the great west where lie could "grow up with the country." So ends the story of another of our pioneers, who being considered an able orator, was olten called upon to appear before the people at important public gatherings. James Connok was born in Ireland in 1823, in Wicklow county and came to Dakota county. May 18, 1857- He took a claim in St. Johns precinct. At present living at Jackson. Capt. Cornei.ios O'Connor was born September 17, 1821 in flic county of Cork. Ireland, and came with his parents to America in 1829- Lived in Bos- ton until he was twenty-eight years of age. Went to New York where he remained live years. Was mar- ried to Catharine Dnggan, April 8, 1852. In 1857 came west and took a steamer at Omaha for Dakota county, landing at St. Johns May 18th. Took a claim on Elk Creek where he lived several years, when he moved to where he lives at the present time two miles east of Homer. Here he and his noble wife lived to experience the hardships and trials of frontier life. He represented Dakota county in the 8tli and 11th sessions of the Territorial legislature, and has been Director in his school district for more than twenty years. Enlisted in the Mexican War. Has four children living — two sons and two daughters, Corne- lius J., County Treasurer, and Timothy, Mrs. Helena Green and Charlottie G. His daughter Mary died in 1887, find in 1889 Daniel and Julia followed her to eternal rest. His youngest son Frank died July 5, 234 WARNKIt's HISTORY OF DAKOTA COUNTV. 1890, and within two years Katie and Maggie died. ]n 1851 Governor Richardson commissioned J\Ir. O'Connor as Captain of a Company, which w-as formed to resist attacks from the Indians. John G. Gkibble crossed the river at Dakota City, May 18. 1857, with all his earthly possessions — a set of carpenter tools. Took a claim in Brushy Bend, and was married in 1860 to Mary Goiiroy. Has six children — three sons, Barney, John and Thomas; thi'ee daughters, Mrs. Lizzie Herwig, Mrs. Josephine Stinson and Olive. Settled on a fai-m four miles and a half west of Dakota City in 1870, where he has resided to the present time. Was county commissioner six years. Easton Rush was born in Somerset county, Penn- sylvania, and came to Dakota county in the spring of 1857. Took a claim two miles west of Dakota City where he lived many years. Built the first house cov- ered with shingles in Dakota precinct. Mai'ried March 17, 1844 to Mary Ann Wirsing. Has six cliildren — one son William, and live dauu;hters. He is living at Wakefield, JSfebraska. Albert H. Bliven was born June 8, 1833, in Pennsylvania, and came to Dakota county, Jane 1st, 1857, on a steamboat, landing at the old town of Oma- di. Went down to Missouri in 1867 and was marrie,d to Adella Hayes. Took a homestead in 1868 on the site where Wn>. C. Orr afterwards operated a sawmill, in tile southern part of the county. Afterwards moved to where he now lives seven miles southwest (>f Da- kota City. Was a soldiei- in the war of the Rebellion, enlisted at Omaha, August, 1863, in Go. I., Ist JNeb. Cavalry, and served two years. Has eight children. EnwARD Arnold was born in Ireland May 1,1822, and settled in Ponca, which was then a part of Dakota county, in the spring of 1857. Elected County Su- SETTLERS 'of 1857. 235 periiitendent August 2, 1858. was also appointed Justice of the Peace for St. -lolins pi-eciiict, Ocrober 20, 1857. a.'id served in the 2nd. JNTeli, Cavalry. Was Dixon county's first clerk, and resides tliere at present tiuje. John Twoiiig was born in the county of Cork, Ireland, and came to America in 1853. Located in Dakota county in 1857, having traveled by boat from St. Joseph. ' Took a claim on Elk Creek, adjoining his brother Patrick, on the s;.utli. Died in 1889- C. D. E.YAN was born in 1854 in New York, and came with his parents to Dakota county, on a steam- boat in Mnj 1&57. Located in St. Johns and then moved to Jackson where he opened up a general store in 1873, which he is conducting at the present time. Married to Mnry E. Brannan at Jackson in 1876. Has three daughters. John Hkffernan whs born in 1821, and came to Dakota county in June 1357. Was well known throngliout the county asa shrewd businessman, a good citizen and a firm friend. Died at his home in Jack- son September 8, 1880. There are ten children living — s'x i>ons, Daniel C, Jolin C, Geo. A., Maurice P., Cornelius K., Michael 1'.; four daughters, Mrs. Mary McGonigal, Mrs. Agnes McCormiek, Norah and Liz- zie. His son, John HefJernan, died June 28. 1881. James LIakvey JJliven was born May 10, 1846, in Tiogue county, Pennsylvania. Went to Wisconsin in 1854, tlien to Iowa, Minnesota and came to Dakota countY, Nebraska, June 1, 1857. Came up the river on a steamboat. Entered the war of the rebellion in IS61, enlisting in the Ninth Hancock Veteran Reserve corps, and fought in the teri-ible battles of Fredericks- burg, Antietam, Gettysburg, Golden Farm and many others. Was mustered out February 5, 1865, and niari-ied to Elizabeth Hayes, of Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1865. Afterwards came back to Dakota county, 236 • warneb's histoky oh uakota county. where he haslivecl a quiet and peaceful life. Moved tn Homer in 1885, and bnilt a snl)stantial residence. Rnilt two tenement houses in South Sionx City in 1887 where he now resides. He is a son of Charles C. Eli veil, JS'ois E. Bliven was born June 26, 1844, in Pennsvlvania, and came to Dakota county, June 1. 1857." Was married to Mary Corwin in Biybnrg in 1864. , lias five sons, Frederick V., Wm. Henry, Arthur, Birdie and Benjamin; two daughters, Katie and Rosa. P. O. Homer. William Leach was born in Haduum, England and came to America, settling in Illinois, and located in Dakota county June 7, 1857. Took a claim on the present site of South Sioux City. Run ferry boat two years, ai'd carried the mail between Covington ard Sioux City. Married in England in 1848 to Susan Edwards. He died in 1870, leaving a wife and three children, Joseph, William and Mrs. Mary Cave, of Chi- cago, Illinois. Seven children have died. Mrs Leach was married a second time to James McKenna,in 1S74. Henry Young- was born in Washington county, Indiana, March 15, 1827. Was married at Columbus in October, 1850 and nine years later crossed the west- ern plains to Oregan, Washington and Montana. He embarked on the steamer ''Uncle Sam" at San Fran- cisco for the Isthmus of Panama where he went a dis- tance of twenty three miles and paid twenty four dol- lars to go that distance, and took the "North Star" for the United States. Fie wont to St. Louis and came by steamboat to Omaha and from there he came on to Dakota county on the old time buckboard, arriving here June 11, 1857. He took a homestead where he has resided to the present time, about live miles north- west of Flomer. Here he has speTit a quiet unassuming life, honored and respected bv all who has ever had any dealings with him. This year he visited his old home in Indiana for the first time since he settled here. SETTLERS OF 1857. 237 B. Gribble traversed the soil of Dakota countv for the iirst, June 12, 1857, and altliough he was not "a tranjp, he had very much tlie appearance of one, with a knapsack on his hack containing all his earthly possess- ions except a lifle, watch and $15.00 in money. But he was enei'getic and ambitious and after the enduring hardships of pioneer life accumulated considerable prop- erty. He was married to Kellie Walden March 29th 1864. Has six children, Emmett, John W., George. Emma, Maggie and JMettie. His wife and two children are dead. Fost office address, Dakota City. Michael Beacom was born in Ireland in 184C and came to Dakota county June 13th 1857. Bought the Edward C. Jones faim four miles and a half north- west of Jackson, where he still resides. Enlisted in 2nd Colorado Cavalry, Cried in 185C to Maleseue Haase at Hanover; she died in the fall of 1877. He has lived a quiet, unassnniing life — has many friends and few enemies and deserves • the richest rewards. He has four children — two sons, William and Louis H.; two daughters, Mrs. Fred 1-ieer- man and Mary. John Gadghkan was born in Ireland in 1838 and came to Dakota county April 25, 1858. Settled on Elk Creek. Afterwai'ds lived in Covington and taught two terms of school there. Married to Catharine Brady in Sioux City, Iowa, Octobe]- 13, 1868- Slie died and he was married a second time February 11, 1871. Has three cliildren — two sons, Patrick and Jolm C, and one daughter, Catharine. His brother, Hugh, came to the county in 1856; served four years and a half in the war, under Capt. Tripp. Died at Jackson, Marcli 15, 1888. Anthony J. Mykes "packed up" all his earthly possessions and started west, landing in Nebraska in the spring of 1858; located on a piece of land above the Col. Eaird farm, afterwards moved to a tract cif land north of where Mr. Taylor lives, eight miles south-west of Dakota City. He built the first brick house ever erected in Sioux City. Has been prominent in all po- litical affairs of the county from the earliest times and can tell as big stories about the exciting elections of "ye olden times" as any man living. Was elected county commissioner on the I'epublican ticket JMovembor tS, 1885, which position he still holds, receiving a total of 666 votes and a majority of 168 over his opponent. Thomas C. Clapp. Mr. Myers was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania. In 1855 came to Dubuque, Iowa; followed plastering and brick laying during the summer and was on the police force in the winter,for two years. Was married in 1852 to Catharine MfcGinley, SETTLE KS OF 18o«. 243 of Laiicabter county, Peiiiisylvatiia. Has an excellent farii) and a pleasant home at the foot of the high bluff in the western part of the county. Great changes have taken place since he settled m the county, when there was not a single house on the road from iJakota City to his piace. A person could drive across the hottom in any dii'ection without coming in contact with barbed wire fences or any othei- kind offences; the wild geese went sailing along without hearing the crack of a mus- ket every now and then, and he did not have to bother ills head about goinsj; to old settlers' reunions and the days of base ball clubs were yet to come. Has nine chil- dren — four sons and five daugiiters, John F., William, Richard, George, Mrs. Charles Ford, Mary, Mrs. J. P., Twohig, Grace and Helei;i. His son Hugh died m 1S92. Gtueon Waener rode up to the banks ot the Mis- souri river at Sioux City in tbe spring of 1858 at the head of a herd ot cows that be had brought from eastern Iowa. He crossed over to Dakota county June U\ County. June ISth. 1859. Located in Blyburg that fall, which was, indeed, a wild looking country at tiiat liuie. Was married in Colorado, June, 1860, to Aliss Lane, sister of Diitton and Caleb Lane. Went to Grand Island in 1865, and back to Dakota county, I.STO. Have eicrht children. He is at present living in South Sioux City, Nebraska. Pius Xekf was born in Baden, G-ermany, in 1848, and came with his parents to America when he was eight years of age. He learned the pottery trade in .New York, and in the spring of 1859 came to Dakota county, making the journey from Omaha to Dakota City afoot. He had been engaged to work in the pot-' tery at Dakota Citv, and at once began work. After years of careful management and hard work he has accnmulated considerable property, and is held in the highest esteem by the people of this county. His noble wife died December 23, 1891, leaving one daughter, Mary. Isaac Hazleoro^'e was born in 1838, in Indiana, and came to Dakota county, in 1859. Afterwards went to the Rocky mountains and is now living at Salt ].,ake City. Was married to Sarah Wilson and they have five children, all sons. SETTLERS OF 1860. JosiAH W. Davh, long before Horace Greeley ever told the young men to "go west," bid his friends adieu and crossed over the Missouri river to Dakota o.onnty on the 18th day of April, 1860, with a deter- iiiiiuxtion to settle d(.wn on the primeval prairies of iS'ebraska and "grow up with the country," — the fleeting vears passed on and sure enough he kept pace •with our county's march to prosperity. Leaving his family on the De Borde place lie pushed on to the 252 warnek's history oj uakota county. Rocky Mountains in quest of wealtli. Returning in the fall went to Wisconsin, sold property there and wintered in the old town of Omadi. Bought a piece of land soiiaetwo miles south of the present town of Homer, of Jeremiah Braunt, father of John and Horatio Braunt, and moved his family there. In 1862 was elected to the legislature; was county commis- sioner three years, and run on the democratic ticket for state senator in the fall of 1892. Built the Sam Combs mill in 1868. His wife died in 1872, leaving six children. Was married to Mary O'Chander in 1873; have six children by this marriage. In 1886 sold his' farm to Asa Rathbun and purchased a piece of land adjoining the Wm. Nixon farm and built a substantial resi(ience. He was born June 2, 1826, in Guilford, Maine; went to Grant cou-nty, Wisconsin via Albany. Butfalo and Chicago; worked in the lead mines until 1850 when he went to California. This was indeed a wild journey as there were no settlements west of the Missouri river. Went back to Wisconsin in 1854 and on the 31st day of August of that year was married to Margaret A. DeBorde. Kept hotel until he started for Nebraska in 1860. Mr. Davis has always taken an active part in the politics of Dakota county, is consid- ered a good debator on all subjects that have from time to time agitated the minds of the people and has won the reputation of being an honest upright citizen. Goodwin Taylor was born 1806. in Virginia. Settled in Cedar county, Iowa, 1836, and came to Da- kota county, ia 1870. Located on the. old Williain Silence place at the bluffs eight miles sonthwest of Dakota City, where he lived an honest upright life, honored and respected by all who knew him. Died at his home, July 11, 1881, his wife having proceeded him to the realms of eternity, January 8, 1879. Michael M. Beacom was born February 1848, in Ireland, Tyrone county. Moved to Wisconsin, then to SETTLERS OF 1860. 253 Iowa, and settled in Dakota county, April 29, 1860. Lived seven years on Elk Creek, when he located one mile and a half east of Hubbard, where he still resides. Married to Lizzie Mclntyre in 1874, and has seven children living, five sons — James E., Michael T., John P., George T. and David P.; two daughters, MaryN. and Alice M, "Was the last county assessor. Michael Beacom, Sr., came to Dakota connty April 20, 1860, where he and his wife died, leaving three children, Mrs. A llice Sullivan and Michael M.; and Mrs. Susan Mitchell, the latter now dead. DuTTON Lane came to Dakota county May 9, 1860. Was married to Adaline DeBorde March 22, 1875. She died, leaving two daughters. Had made himself famous by killing a mountain Hon, an aligator and an enormous fish, all in Dakota county. He died in 1S93, on Walker's Island. Joseph Smith was born June 1, 1845, in Erie county, Ohio, and came to Dakota connty May 10, 1860, settling in Blyburg where he helped his father in the saw mill, which was established in 1864. Was married to Margaret J. DeBorde in 1868. Was one of the founders of Homer, where he lived until 1875 when he went to Oregon. Afterwards returned and is now engaged in the mercantile business in Emerson. Has eight children living — seven sons and one daughter. One child is dead. Joseph Hakeis was born February 15, 1831, in Stal bridge, England, and came to DsLkota county May 10, I860, settling on a farm two miles south-east of Homer, where he still livts. Married in the fall of 1860 to Doiotliy l?mith. Has ten children — foursona, George, John, Joseph and Eobert; six daughters, Mrs. Thomas McMahon, Mrs. Wm. Maney, Mrs. Joseph Johns, Amelia, Joanna and Rose. Herbert Harris was born in England in 1838, and came to Dakota conTity May 10, I860. Married a 254 wakneb's histciry of dakota county. second time to Elva Endsby. Hus four sons, Julm Ed- ward, Tilden, Leonard and Daniel ; tliree dau^liters, Jliii'y E., Lydia and Dora A. Was a member of tlie lirsit band of Dakota county, where he played the B clarouer. PostoiSce, Homer. EoBEET Smith was born in Ei'ie county, Ohio, March 25, 1857, and came to Dakota county June 15, 1860. Was married to Eliza Ketlierford June 18,1874. Has two sons, Robert Milton and Jefrey E.; two daugh- ters, Lillie Maud and Goldie Dott. One S(in and one daughter have died. Lives one-half mile south of Hoiiiei'. "During my first years here" says Robert, ■'! saw some hard times, but still I think there is no place like home. in Dakota county." GuSTAVE Bebgek was born March 12, 1840, iu Gerujany, and came to America, arriving in Dakota county December 5, I860. His father, mother, brother Gotleib, and sister, Mrs. Niggerman, came with him. Stopped a few days in Omadi, which he says; ''Was at that time a dead town," Enlisted in Company I, 2nd Nebraska cavalry. Settled whei-e he now resides, ti\e. miles south-west of Dakota City, in 1867. Was mar- ried to Miss Minerva Taylor, October 20, 18711, and she died February 4, 1893, leaving a little daugliter. His father, Frederick Eei'ger, died January 26, 1861. Gotleib Beugkk was born in Germany, and came to Dakota county December 5, 1860. Took a claim south-east of Dakota City, where he lived to accumulate considerable amount of property. Died in Sioux City, Iowa. February 3, 1890, from effects of "LaGrippe " SETTLERS OF 186*. C. C. 0ei4 was born March 17, 1817, and came to Dakota county in May, 1861. Lived in Dakota City five years. Had one son, William C. He owned large tracts of land in Dakota county. Died at his home iib Sioux City, Iowa, February 12, 1893. SETrLEHS OF 1861. 255 John B. Myeks might Jiave been seen jogging along on tlie ''biickhourd" from Omaha to Dakota county in August, 1861. It was about noon on a hot, sultry August day when his journey terminated by Jirtlting in front of A. H. Baker's liotel, in Omadi, and Mianv of tlie westerir people know what an enormous appetite it gives a person to ride a hundred miles on a ' buckbuard." The landlord stood off in the corner of the room and as he watched him devour everything in reach, he wondered how much more that man could hold, lie proceeded to his brother's place, A. J. Myers, who tlien lived a short distance up the ravine west of Col. Baird's farm. Worked at plastering and nearly all of the older houses of the county are witnesses to the handiwork of his trowel. Went to Omaha and Ne- braska City and worked a while at his trade in those places. About this time he concluded to take unto himself a wife. His first step was to go out and fall in love with a pretty school raa'm and on the 6tJi of Jan- uary, 1867, was married to Mary Ann Boyle., daughter of Chas. Boyle, in the Catholic church, at Jackson, by Rev. Father Erlach. lie at once settled on a farm five mfles south-west of Dakota City where he resided many years, and has always been a respected and law abiding citizen. Has lost a number of horses with what is known as the "bottom disease" but in later years did his farming v.-ith mules. John B. Myers was born April 18, 1832, in Cambria county, Pennsylvania. In 1854 went t(j Chicago and from there to Dubuque,Iowa. Went down to New Orleans and then back to Dubuque and remained there seven or eight years, after which he went to St. Joe, Missouri, in 1859, then to Pennsylvania. Came west ao-ain to Keokuk the following year. When the great civil war broke out he enlisted in Company A, 21st Missouri Infantry, commanded by Col. Moore. Participated in the battle of Shiloh. After leaving the army came north to Dakota county, which closes the story of another pioneer. He is at present living in Homer, Nebraska. 256 warj^eb's history of Dakota county. SETTLERS OF 18(52, 1863 AND 1864. John Myers was born in Ireland, in 1837 and came t.o Dakota coanty in 1862. Located on a farm and afterwards kept store in Jackson, where lie was married in 1869. Has two sons, Mutthew and John; one, daughter, Mary. Is at present living in Sioux City, Iowa. John and IIenky' Johns, two brothers, came to Dakota county in the fail of 1862. Settled in Blyburg. John married Cynthia A. Pilu;rim — has live child'-eii. Henry married Eliza Bailey — has six children. John Rooney, Su. was 'oorn in Scotland in 1828, and landed in America November 17, 3 851. Settled in Dakota county in 1863, where he has resided to tlie present time. Was married in Sioux City, Iowa, to Bridget Long. Has iive sons and six daughters — John, Thomas, Peter, Hugh, Henry, Ellen, Mary Ann, Katie, Maggie, Agnes and Anna. P. 0. address, Hubbard. Nicolas R. Brasfield was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, April. 28, 1850. Enlisted in Company B, 8th Iowa Infantry in 1864. Came to Sergeant Bluffs April 11, 1863, and imnted wild turkeys in the titnher south of Dakota City, that year. Was married in Madison county, Iowa. His wife died and he married Miss Katy J. Hileman, at Dakota City, July 26. 18S3, Rev. D. Marqnett officiating. Was elected sheriff of Dakota county jNovemher 8, 1887. Samuel Curtis eamy to Dakota county in July, 1864, and settled in Blybnrg, where he died. There are three sons — Calvin, Tunis and Samuel; one daush- ter. Mrs. Ida Lane. Mrs. Curtis married John Trvon and they live at Blencoe,.Iowa. JouN A. Williams came with his parents to Da- kota county, February 9, 1864. Lived in Dakota City, while his father was in the ;irmy, three years. Then located in Covington, where he hns since resided. SETTLEKS OF 1864. 257 Married in 18S7 to AhnaMcElhaney. Has one son and two daugliters. Thomas (J!iki.stoi'iikkson was born in JN'oi-way. 1835, and csime to Dakota connty in 1864. Settled along the bluffs in tiie sonthein part of tliecounty with his brother Peter and was killed near Covington No- veniber 9, 1878, by Lis team rnnnina; away, npsetting the wagon which fell upon him. His wife had pre- viously died, leaving four children — Christopher, Todli, Mrs. Miron- Sutton and Anna. John Williams was boin 1821 and came to Da- kota county, February 9, 1864 locating in Covington, where he ccntinued to reside until his death, at the residence of his son John A. Williams, on the 16th of May, 1889. His remains were interred in the Dakota City burying ground. His wife and tliree daughters had pievionsly gone to their eternal rest. Three grown sons survived him — John A., Charles F. and James M. JonjsrDuGGAN was born in 1832, in Ireland, and came to Dakota county in the spring of 1864. Took a homestead near Jackson. Lives one-half mile east of Hubbard. Mari-ied to Cathaiine Hogan;,they have five sons — Patrick, Thomas, Pobert. John and William; two dangliters — Mrs. Tiiomas Long and Johannah. Peof. Samuel Algiiey was born in Juniatta county, Pennsyhania, Febi'uary 8, 1831, and settled in Dakota City in the fall of 1864, Graduated from the Pennsyl- vania college in 1S56. In the autumn of 1857 entered the Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, whei-e he remained foni' years. From bovhood days took great interest in geology, and is to-day one of the emi- nent ceohjgists of onr conntiy. Married to Elizabeth. C. Wel.ty, in Westmoreland connty, Pennsylvania, Oc- tober 14', 1858. Has one daughter, Helen B. After arriving in Dakota City was the Lutheran minister there three years, silso Connty Surveyor and Superin- 258 Wiener's history of Dakota codnty. tendent of Public Schools. Has held many responsible positions in scientific and geological departments since moving away from Dakota county. Benjamin Cokwin came to Dakota connty in 18(M and settled in Blybnrg where lie died, leaving one sou — George; six daughters — Mrs. Wrn. Pilgi'iin, Wrs. Nois Biiven, Mrs. Alfred Pilgrim, Mrs. Eldred Siiook, Mrs. Taylor Osburn and Mrs. Frank Hale. His \vid(.w was married to Andrew Johns in 1881. De. Joseph Bradbraky was married in 111., and came to Dakota county, 1864. Located in Dakota City, where he died in 1868. His wife was married a second time to John Smith, Sr., in 1870, and died at Dakota City, July 11, 1880, leavinjjj one daughter, Josephine, wife of Theodore D. Curtis. Peter Christopherson was born in Norway. in 1S38. Came to America 1859 and settled in Dane conntv. Wisconsin, where he was married. Came to Dakota county, in the summer of 1864 and camped on the banks of Blyhurg lake and soon after purchased a tract of land of Col. Orr, adjoining Capt. O'Conner's farm, also filed on a homestead, joining this land on the east, and proved up on the same. His wife died June SOtli, 1882. Has seven children jivino' and four dead. SETTLERS OF 1865. William Barnett was born in 1837, in Perry county, Pennsylvania. Was married in 1859 to Agnes Bell, and came to Dakota county in the spring of 1865. Has four sons — George, Joseph, William and James; five daughters — Mary J., Belle, JNellie, Florence and Hattie. His brotlier Joseph lived here one year, now resides in Pennsylvania. William Taylor was born in 1839, in Iowa, and on the 11th of March 1865, made his first appearance in Dakota county. He at once, hj his integrity and GO I— I c o O O d SETTLERS OF 1865. 261 fair dealings among his leilowmen, became a prominent citizen, and was elected county commissioner October 8, 1867. Was again elected to the same office twentj-one years later, which position he held until the commis- sioner system was discontinued. Settled on a farm eigiit miles south west of Dakota City, where he still resides, lias lost three wives, and has eight children living — four sons, H. Lee, Goodwin P. William and John L; four daughters, Mrs. Olive Shull, Mrs. Viola Xixon, Sylvia and Mable C, wife of M. M. Warner. Three children have died. His daughter Elina J. died Septembei' 4, 1888- She was loved and respected by a laro-e circle of friends. IX MEMORIAM. [In fond remembrance of Elma Taylor.] Dear Elma lies still In the graveyard on the hill. And while the autumn winds wave All night long aroimd her grave — Her many friends will say: "How oft along the vanished past. Still with the lines of youth aglow. Spring up the flowers that faded fast — The scented bloom of long ago! Where is the heart that would forget The smile, the look, the embrace? Amid the years we treasure yet, The contour of her loving face, " A Young Friend, M. M. South Sioux City, Neb., September 10, '88. Stevkx M. Rockwell came to Dakota county, August 28, 1865, and operated a carpenter shop at Dakota City and in Oraadi precinct. His two sons Ephraim and Henry live in Homer. He and two daughters — Eliza C. and liodema live in Indiana. Three children are dead. 262 warnek's history ok dakota county. SETTLERS OF 18(5(3. (ii:0RGE Lkamer was born in Dlai]' county, Pa., and came to Dnkotn county, April 2, 1866. Eoiiglit J. V Warner's farm, two miles west of JJakota City, wliere lie liiis lived to the present time. Built a fine l)i'ick i-esideiK-e on liis farm in 1872, at a cost of $i,- 000. Married in 1852 to Mai-garet Geesey oi' Blair county, Pa., She died April 1. 1885, leaving eight sons. C. B. Howard was born Feliruary 24, 1847 in Peiiu.sylvania, and came to Dakota county April 10, 1S()6. In the spring of 1870 took a claim on Fiddlers Oreek. Married to Mary Phillips. Has one son and thi'ee daughters. Postoffice Homer. Albert M. IIakkington was born March 23, 1838, in Connecticut. Was mari'ied to .Tennie S. Kimball in Massachusetts. September 27, 1862, and came to Da- kota county, April 26, four years later. Was employed as carpenter at the Winnebago Agency two years and a half. Afterwards took a homestead on Fiddlers Creek which he stills owns. PostoflBce Homer. Enos Kkel was born in Perry county, Pennsylvania in 1822, and came to Dakota county in July 1866- Was Ti-easurer of Dakota county, and died when hold- ing the ffiee at 10:30 a. m. October 2, 1873, at his res- idence five miles west of Dakota City. There are six children living — one son, Enos; and live daughters — JMrs. Emma Mvres, Duarte, California; Mrs. Mary Culver, Monte Vista, California; Mrs. Ella Brown and Mrs. Jennie Page, Lyons, JMebrasi^a; and Miss Lizzie, Los Angelo!:, California. Charles H. Potter was horn in Woodstock, Windham county, Connecticut, and spent his earlier years in the place of liis birth, receiving his education froi>! the commcm school of the county. Enlisted in the wai- for the L^ni(jn as a private, in company D. SETTLE14S OF 1866. . 263 18th Connecticut Inf. Vol. Soon after entering tlie service was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and placed in coimnand of company H. 24tl) United States Colored Troops. Was acting Adjutant of the regiment and act- ing assistant Adjutant General on the staff of Major General Barnes ana when the regiment was mustered out was chosen Provost MarshalT of Halifax county, "Virginia. Was three years head clerk at the Winne- bago Agency under Agent Matthewson's administra- tion. Was niarriod in 1868, to Maria Norton, at Da- kota City by H. H. Wilson. Located on a farm on Omaha creek near Comb's mill where he diligently ialiored for many years until he had reared for himseff and wife one of the neatest and most comiortable homes to be found in tiie county. Was appointed Su- perintendent and his wife Matron of Industrial School at the Winnebago Agency, under Agent G, W. Wilk- inson's administration, which position lie held until he was appointed United States .Indian Agent for the Omaha and Winnebago i^gencies, to succeed Wilkin, son, August 7, 1885, wliich position he held until November 1, of the next year. Moved to Wakefield and thence to Alabama, where he has an interest in some oyster heds. Mr. Potter is a good scholar, an able debater, and taught school for a number of years in Dakota county. Geo. C. Gkangeb was born September 12th, 1S20, in Saratoga county, N. Y. Came to Dakota county, September 1866. Located in the timber six miles northwest of Jackson, where lie opened up a wood- yard and sold wood to passing steamboats. V^as twice a widower before marrying his present wife, Miss Eliza E. McKenzie, September i3rd, 1867. Has three children living. Lias served a number of years as county cortimissioner and surveyor. Was elected to the Litter ottice November 3, 1889, and is now tilling that office. Was also elected as surveyor for Dixon 264 Warner's histciky of, Dakota county. county, November 2, 1880. He is at present li\-ing in Sonth Sioux City. Ja-COE, a. Sides whs born December 31, 1844, in Indiana county, Pennsylvania. Enlisted in the lute war when but 16 yeai's of age, in Coinpanv D. 4tli Regiment I'ennsylvania Vol. Mounted Inf. He set- tled in Dakota count-y May 5, 1865, on a piece of land two miles and a half south-east of Dakota City. His wife died in 1867, and was married a second time to Miss Alice E. Wright. August 15, 1872. He was accidentally shot Friday, July 11, 18il0, a short dis- tance south of the two J^ntlierun churches west of Da- kota City, leaving a wife and six children, one by his first wife and five by second. Adam Wenzel was born January 20, 1820, in Germany and came to Dakota county in April, 1866. Sei'ved three years as a Union soldier in tlie Rebellion. Was mari'ied in Peora, Illinois. He has a step-son— - Wm. Gamniet, and lives on the Island northwest of Dakota City. He invented acorn planter and I'eceived a patent for it. Milton Foreshoe was born November 2'Z, 1844, in Pennsylvania. Married to Emaline Sides April 24, 1866, in his native state. Came to Dakota county, May 5, 1866, and took a homestead near Wm. Taylor's place. Afterwards moved to where he now lives five miles southwest of Dakota City. Has one son, Milton, and two daughters, Altaand J-iessie. S. P. MlKESELL was born in Indiana county. Pennsylvania, and came to Dakota county in 1866 set- tling in Dakota City. After\vards moved to Ponca in 1869 N\here he still resides, and is engnged in the mer- cantile business Michael Keel was born November 5, 1815, in Perry county, Pennsylvania, crossed the river into Da- kota co.unty, July 5, 1866. Lived o.ii the Uattom wesi SETTLERS OF 1867. 265 of Dakota City for three jears, when he moved to tlio above iiarned town wliere lie lived until his death, February 28, 1892. M. W. Beardshear made his tirst jonrney to Dakota comity on a sied iu January 1867. Was uiar- ried to Josiali W. Davis' eldest daughter, Ellen S.. Deeeinher 25, 1868. Has four ^ons. the names of the tliree eldest being Frank, William and Edward; three -hmahters, Lille, Bertha and Koselin. Lives on a farm three miles sonth of ILiirier. Mr. Beardshear was born in Knox conntv, Ohio, April 18, 1842. Has served as ' assessor for 0:iiadi precinct. Taylor Osburn was born in 1848 in Indiana, and came to Dakota county, June 1867. Was married to Rosa Carwin in 1873, and has seven children living — three sons and four daughters. One child died. He is at present living in Blyburg. Charles D. Bayliss was born in West Virginia in 18:J7. When the war of the rebellion broke out he fiilisted in the Third West Virginia Infantry, and at the clofe of the war received a certificate of thanks from the governor for his gallantry and bravery. Came to Dakota county, Nebraska, in the spring of i8()7, located in Covington, and with Win. Hedges, started a meat market at that place. Afterwards moved to the Oinalia Indian reservation, where he married Mrs. Moncravie, in 1880, and died at his home on Omalia creek, August 8, six years latei'. His wife and two ciiildren survive him. Martin" S. Manpfield was born about 1830, ill Marion, (4rant countv, Indiana. In 1840 went to Champaign county. III., where he was engaged at farm- ing and learning the carpenter's trade. Enlisted in the war for the Union June 1, 1861, in Company C. 25th Illimn's Infantry, under Col. W. JST. Coller. After- wards seived in Missouri under Gen. Siegel and fouglit iu tljat great battle of tlie soutliwtjst — Pea Ilidge, 266 WABNEit's HISTORY OV DAICOTA COUNTY. March 6, 7 and 8, 1S62. Was detached to the 8th ■Wisconsin battalion, light artillery, Aiignst 18, 1862. Was at the evacuation of Corinth, Missit^sippi. marched froiri there to Perryville and participated in the engagement of (Jctoher 8, 1862; was captured near Nashville. Tennessee, November 7, 1882 by John Morgan, and was taken to Lebanon, Tennessee, was pai'oled but not released. Escaped by running across some ditches where he could not be followed by horse- men. Was sent to Camp Chase, Ohio, where he re- mained until March 8, 1863, when he returned to the command at Murfreesborongh, Tennessee. After participating in the battles of Chickamauga, Lookout Mt. and Missouri Ridge, retm-ned to Murfreesborongh. Fought in the battles of Kennesaw Mt. andPeach creek; was released at Atlanta, August 3, 1864, and sent to Springfield, Illinois. Came to Decatur, Nebraska, June, 1865, and worked at the carpenter's trade. Went to the Winnebago Agency, Nebraska, October 1, 1866, to do some carpenter work and spent the following winter in Decatur. On the 7th day of March, 1867, he stood for the first time in his life upon Dakota county soil. Helped to build the Sam Combs mill. Was married October 20, of that year to Sarah C. De- Borde, fifth daughter of J. F. DeBorde — one of tlie pioneers of Dakota county, Covington, Nebrask;'. October 1, of the following year, crossed over the bridge on Omaha creek where Homer was soon after located, with a load of lumber and his tools. By night of the same day he had completed the first house ever erected in the town of Homer, which was occupied be- fore dark by John and Joseph Smith with a stock of general merchandise. The following spring lie built several other houses in the new town, which had in the iiiean time been staked off into lots. Smithville was suggested as the name for the town in honor of its founders, whereupon Mr. Mansfield replied: "Gentle- men, I want a name with one mouthful, the new town SETTLKES OF 1867. 267 will be culled Homer." Was couitnissiyiied a notary public in 1885 tiTid appointed by President Cleveland as postmaster at Homer, which office he took charge of on the 12tli day of February of the next year. The Homer postoffice was raised to a money order office July 1, 1887- Has six children living. He has ever taken a deep interest in all enterprises looking to the welfare of the county, is considered a good public speaker and has always identified himself with the dem- ocratic party in Dakota county politics and no history of the county can ever be impartially written without the name of M. S. "Mansfield. William Hedges was born April 10th 1837, in Beverly. Wasiiington county, Ohio; moved with par- ents to Athens county, and then to Morgan county, where he lived on a farm until the beginning of the war; enlisted in April, 1861, in Company H. 17th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Was promoted to orderly sergeant, after being wounded in the charge at Fort Wagner. Gen. B. F. Butler recommended to the governor of Ohio that "William Hedges be promoted to the rank and pay of 1st. Lieutenant, for meritorious conduct in front of the enemy at Richmond." In ten days afterwards was again promoted as captain of his company, which position he held until after the close of tlie war. Was mustered out of service November 7th, 1865, and returned to his home in Ohio. In the spring of 1867 started west and crossed the Missouri river at Decatur, took passage on the stage going north to Dakota county, arriving at Isaac Monroe's place (now owned by George Peterson) March 15th. He began the next day to drive the stage, which carried the mail between Monroe's place and Sioux City. Was married to Miss Sarah Dorsey, at Dakota City, Sep- tember 23rd, 1868. by Judge Samuel Whitehorn. Was appointed farmer at the Winnebago Agency, by Agent Col. Arthur Edwards, in 1880- In 1881 moved 268 Warner's history of Dakota county. to Dakota City, and retiinuid to Jackson, in the spriug I if 1882, wliere bo again opeiied up a meat market. Was again appointed as farmer at tlie Winnebago Agency, by Charles H. Potter, whicli position lie held until he received a license as Indian trader at the same agency, under Agent J. F. Warner. Mr. Hedges lias always been considered, hy those wiio have had deal- ings with him, to be an honest, upright citizen. Has two children, Bhinche and Tliomas. William Lapslky was born August 5, 1805, in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, and came to Dnkota. county, March 19, 1867. Settled on a fariTi southwest of Dakota City. Married to Isabella Matthews in 1835. He died at his residence September 17, 1887, leaving a wife and eight children — four sons, James J., , William, of Pennsylvania, Robei't L. and John A.; four daughters, Mrs, J. N. Hamilton, Eliza J., Kebecca and Matilda B. David Y. Hilem^n was born in Pennsylvania in 1828, and landed upon Dakota county soil iVLarch 22, 1867. Purchased a tract of land of Geo. T. Woods, six miles southwest of Dakota City, where he has re- sided to the present time. His wife died leaving two sons — Woods M. and Itobert O.; two daughters, Mi-s. Dennis Armour and Mrs. Albert Heikes. Mr. Hile- man is one of the prominent men of the county and he always has been considered as an honest and upi-ight cirizen. Daniel Sullivan came to Dakota county. March 22, 18(57. Was married the same year. Has one son and four daughters; one child died. Lives eiglit miles northwest of Jackson. John [1. BRinENBAUon was born September 8fltli. 1820, Petersburg, Huntington county, Pennsylvania. Spent his cai'ly days on tlie farm, afterwards learned the milling business; was married to Rosana Wertz, SKTLKKS OF 1867. SlilJ in Hdllidaysburg, Pennsylvania, January 26, 1843. Was a boldier in the late war and 'Hvith the soldiers stood." Knii.sted in ("ompany F. 55th Pennsylvania Vet. Inft., February 13, 186-1. "Marched down to Washington"' and was disf.harged in 1865. In the spring of 1867 he liecame convinced that the great west was the place for him and began preparations for a journey to Nebraska, ci'ossing tlie Missouri river at Sioux City, April 16. Moved his family to the old Charley PJckiiart place, two miles directly south of Dakota City. December 1869, moved down and took charge of the Oaks mill, where he remained until April 1S70, when he went to Jackson and took charge of the grist mill at tiiat place. Here he remained until JNovemher 1870, wlien lie purchased a ti'act of land of Anthony J. Myres, six miles southwest of Dakota City, where lie has resided to the present time. His wife died Decenjber 29, 1891, leaving eight children — six sons, Piiillip W., John, Benjamin N., Samuel A., Williani H. and Ulysses Gr.; two daughters. Ilebeeca and Mrs. Mary Fair of Pennsylvania. Four children ha\'e died. M. J. Hermann looked out upon what was after wards to be known as Dalnild the Gideon Warner bridge across Omahn creek. Built a blacksmith shop near the old Charles Bliven place and after working at his trade there for a while removed his shop to Dakota City. AliDiit tliis time Kalph (ioodwin wanted to break up a piece (>f land northeast of Dakota City, but there was not a breaking plou- to be had at any of the stores in the county, whereupon Mr. Spragne made a breaking plow complete for him. Plas been proprietor of general stores in Dakota City and Homer. Was democratic candidate for county commissioner for Omadi precinct in 1882 and was defeated by a majority of three votes. Has six children living and two dead. Built a good sub- stantial residence in Homer in 1887 and has at different times owned some of the best farms in the county. John R. Sprague was born JMarch 30, 1842, in Milton, Rock county, Wisconsin. Learned blaeksmithing while a voung man and worked at that trade until the break- ing out of the Rebellion, when he "shouldered his mus- kec" and marched to the scene of conflict. Enlisted in Company E, 22nd Wisconsin Infantry, August 11, 1862. Went to, Cincinnatti and thence to Kentucky and par- ticipated in the battle of Brent Wood, March 5, 1863, where he was captured by the rebels and taken to Co- lumbia and from there to Libbie prison. Was released June 6tli and went to City Point, Virginia, and from there to Annapolis, Indiana. Went to St. Louis where he joined a ro-organized regiment under General Rosencrans and afterwards ''ma^'ched with Sherman down to the sea," which is a little incident of which his children may well feel proud. At the close of the war went to Milwaukee and was married to Sarah J. Simerson at Edgerton, Wisconsin, September 2, 1865. John Nixon was born in Scotland, 1820, and married at an early age. His wife died in her native land, and Mr. Nixon with his five children sought a home in e CI 'ZlZ WAltNEKS III3T0KY OF DAKOIW COUNTY. America, iiis brother William liaviug preceeded him. Arrived in Dakota L'ouuty, June 27, 1807 and lived with iiis brother. Died January 15, 1882, leaving live children — two sons, Alex M. and John L.;andt!iree dauirhters, Lizzie, Mr.s Jean Waite and Martha L., the hitter was the wife of Wm. Taylor— died in May 188U. William Holswoutii was hoi-n in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, March ith, 1841 the day upon whiuli William Henry Harrison was inaugurated as President, aud tor whom he was named. Moved with his pa''eiits to Mcmroe county, Ohio, early in 1845, wheie he spent his childhood days in the woods and wilds of that country as it then was, and there he received an edu- cation, such as could be obtained. Here lie lived ulitil 18(55, when lie went to Wisconsin, and remained tliere two years, which time he spent teaching school iti the city of Watertown and Jefferscm county. Previous to this time, however, he liad been teaching in Ohio and what is now Western V^irginia. Was married to Mary Holsworth, Ano;nst 19, 1867, at Watertown, Jefferson county, Wisconsin, and immediately went to Omaha, ai-riving tiiere Septeuiber 26th, where he remained un- til July, 1868, wdien he turned his face northward, de- termined to tind a location for a hon)e. A?id he found it. on the 3d day of July, 1868, on a south branch of Wigle creek, in Dakota county, where he at once located, and where he has since resided. Here, amid the wild prairies of those days, be began to build a comfortable home for himself and family; to brewk uj) the prairie and plant beautiful groves of maple, bo.\cld- er, walnut and other trees; which will add beauty and wealth, and stand as stately landmarks to call up the memory of an old settler, when tiic hands that planted them shall long have mouldered into dust. Here, also ho has thus lar raised eif^ht children, the eldest 24, and the youTigest 10 years old- — all beyond the cradle, at least — and he never had a cradle in the house. He has SETTLKKS OF 1867. taiiiflit scliooi in four difEereiit states — Virginia, Ohio. Wit^coiisiu and Nebraska. Ilis services as teacher will long be I'einenibered as being among the most snccess- t'nl scliools ever tanylit in Dakota coinitv. He lias al- ways taken an active interest in county affairs, and is considered as an able debater and eloquent orator, and as such has often lieen called upon to appear belore public gatherings and important assemblages, includ- ing political Conventions, Fourth of July celebrations, ilie "Farmers' Club." and reunions of the Pioneer and Old Settlei'S. In all his dealings between man and men his conduct has always been honest and npright, and his generous and valuable tervices in the effort to bring Diikota county from its wild and almost unin- habited condition to the present wealth and prosperity will long be renjeuibered by its citizens. Timothy Mlkpuy was born in Ireland, in 1844 iind came to Dakota county, September 1867. Settled on a farm one n^ile and a half north Of Homer. Maj-- ried in 1868 to Mary O'Neill. lias one son — Thomas; four daughters — Mrs. Thomas Ashford Jr., Maggie, Loreine and Pearl. Postofiice Homer. JouN Oak landed upon the site of Tekamah, Ne- braska, .Inly 28, 1855. and settled in Dakota county in 1867, where he was proprietor of the Oak's mill. Here he and his wife died. Oakland, Nebraska was named in honor of him. S. I. Hakt came to Dakota county. October 20, 1867, and settled in Brushy Bend. Took an active part in the Grange organization in the county. Mar- ried to Mi's. Wasliington Warner, which was his se- cond mairiage. Lives in Di.\on county. SETTLERS OF 1868. J. H. KocKWELL cau'C to Dakota county, January 274 Warner's histoky of dakota conNTY. , 2S, 1868, and took a homestead on Fiddlers creek where he, now lives. Has two sons and three daugliters. Calvin Rockwell settled in Dakota county, Jan- uary 28, 1868, and took a homestead in Pigeon creek. Married to Marilda Smith. Has thvee sons and two daughters. Thomas Haynes came to Dakota county in March. 1868, and took a homestead six miles west of Jackson. Died in 1879, leaving a wife and five children — four sons, Patrick. James L., Michael and Daniel; one daughter, Mrs. Thomas Rush. His son Michael lives on the old place and is mai'ried te opened up a brick yard. In July 1861 enlisted in the Ttli Iowa Infantry, and was mustered out in 1864 at Chattanooga, Tennessee. Moved to Hitchcock county, Nebraska, August 1884. being one of its pioneer settlers. Has eight children, two sons — Wesley and Samuel J.: six daughters — Mrs. Thena Eeam, Mrs. Lydia Phillips, Mrs. America Duncan, Mrs. Nettie Hammond, Mrs. Mary Smith and Mrs. Jessie Little. Will S. .Jay was born in 1853, in Knoxville, Iowa, and came to Dakota county, April 23, 1868. Has been in the newspaper business in the county for a number of years. Married to Georgia Grifi'ey in 1879. Has three sons. Peter Mikesell was born in Indiana county. Pennsylvania. Came to Dakota City, Nebraska, in 1868, where he was elected Justice of the Peace. Died at Dakota City, March 21, 1872, and buried near the Lutheran church of that place. C. M. Crowell came to Dakota county, May 5. 1868 and lived on J. F. Warner's farm in the southern part of the county. Went lo Dixon county, where he lived, until he moved to Central City, Nebraska, where he now resides. Married in 1850. his wife died, was mari'ied a second time in 1859 to Sarah Marquess. Has three children — one son and two daughters. Jacob Heikes was born May 5, 1837, in Mifflin. Juniata courity, Pennsylvania. Was married to Mary J. Aughey February 16. 1858, and came to Dakota county, March 17, 1868. Located on a farm three miles southwest of Dakota City where he remained 16 years, when he moved to Wayne county and built a. (■omfovta!)le home. Has nine children, four sons — Albert A., Luther A., Samuel A., Charles A.; and five daughters — Mrs. Ida V. Milligan, Mrs. Anna B. Long, Mrs. Tillie Slaughter, Mary M. and Lettie B. His son Luther is living on the old farm. 276 WAKNEit's HJSTOKY Ol" DAKOTA COUNTY. MicHAKL Cain was boiii in 1830, in Ireland, and came to America in 185(1, arriving in Dakota county, May 8tli, 1868. Located in Jaci^son where lie remain- ed nine years. In 1877 settled on a piece of land one and a half miles from where Hubbard now stands. Was married to Miss Maggie Brackin, in Massachusetts, in 1860 — have seven children living and four dead. Kntjd Hansen was born in Denmark in 1833, and was married to Frederikke Jorgensen in 1865. Have one son — Christian; three daughters — Carrie M., Eliza M. and Emily S. Took a homestead (jii Wigle creek in June 1868, where he has lived to the present time. Chaklks H. Phillips was horn August 23, 1831, in Foster, Rhode Island, and when sixteen years old went to Connecticut, thence to Illinois. Was married to Miss Evaline Hunt, in Lake county, Illinois, in i860, and moved to Dakota countyj June 28, eight years later. Located on the Logan river in Dixon county, and returned to Dakota City in 1869 where he has resided to the present time, engaged in the dray business. Has five children living — three sons, and. two daughters, and three children have died. M. O. Aykes was born in Lee county, Iowa, and came to Dakota county in 1868- Married to Ella Nevelle. step daughter of Col. Bates. Has cue son, Edgar, and two daughters, Florence and Marion. He kept a drug store for a number of years and is at pres- ent proprietor of the Bank of Dakota City. He did not sit around and wait for something to turn up, hut he set his hands and brains to work and to-day he has something to sliow for it. Samuel A. Combs began paying his respects to Da- kota county on the 10th day of August, 1868- Wa,-^ engaged in the milling business for several years at Lodi and Jackson. Afterwards purchased the Frontier Mills, two miles south of Homer,where he still resides. SETTLEKS OF 1868. 277 Cliaiiged name to Hmiier Roller Mills. Was married to jMai'tlia J. Wirtz in 1869 at Hudson, Michigan. Has one r5iin, Frank, and two daugliters, Sarah E. and Helen E. Three children liavo died. Their daughter Jennie died August 30tli, 1887, leaving a large circle of friends to uuiurn her untimely death. Sam A. Coml>s was horn April 27, 1846 in St. Clair county, Michigan. Moved with parents in 1848 to Ontario county, INew York, where he learned the milling trade. Keturned to Michigan in 1866. His sojourn in Dakota county has been marked with push and energy. William L. Covell came to Dakota county, in 1868, and took a homestead on Wigle creek, five miles Southwest of Homer, where he kept the Randolph postoffiee. After living in the county eight years moved to Jackson, Michigan, where he now resides. Lewis Jopi' was born in Germany, and came to Dakota county, August 1868. Took a homestead, where he lives at the present time five miles east of Emerson. Married the same year. Has one daughter, Katie. Four children have died. Danikl C. Dibble was born in Delaware county. New York, and came to Dakota county in 1868. He located upon the wild prairie land two miles southwest of Dakota City, and began the task of opening up a farm. After many years of hard work he has succeed- ed ill accumulating considerable wealth and has a beautiful farii' and home. He was married to Jane Wood, in January, 1861, and has one son, William C. and (me daughter, Nellie. Has served as county com- missioner and has at all times assisted in public enter- prises calculated to better the welfare of the county. Postofiice, Dakota City. Thomas J. King crtine to Dakota county. Septem- ber 23, 1868, and took a homestead on Piegon creek one mile southeast of Hubbard. Married to M. J. 278 waenek's history of dakota county. Exliiie ill Oliio, January 29, 1859, Has six sons — Thomas E., G. M., Melville T., L. L., M. L>. and Charles S. ; three daughters — Mrs. Flora E. Kanaly, .Maude iind Lanienta. Enlisted as 1st Lieutenant in Company A. 99th Ohio Infantry. Was afterwards transferred to the 82nd Ohio Regiment. Has been county judge and su- perintendent of public instruction. At present engMged in the law business at South Sioux City. JoHK McCoNEHBY was bom 1850, and came to ])a- kato county in October, 1868, Was a union soldier in the Kebeilion. Lives on his farm two miles and a half southeast of South Sioux City Dennis Mitchell came to Dakota county (October 13, 1868, and took a homestead six miles west of Jack- son. Married to Catharine Cullen in 1864. Has two sorts and one daughter. Tim Cakrabine was born March 9th, 1851, in Peter- borough, Canada, and came to the United State.s at the age of ten years. Came to Dakota county October 10th. 1868, and was employed three years in the Ferry House at Covington, after which he worked in Reinnainan's store. Bought a half interest in Nicolas Maher's gro- cery sttjre and later purchased the entire stock. Hu was also postmaster at that place. Was married to Emma Davis, a step-daughter of James Stott, JSIovem- lier, 2nd, 1873, at Dakota City. Moved to a forty acre farm, (at present 1280 acres,) in the spring 1875. Built a fi,ne residence in Emerson and moved therein the fall of 1884- Went into the stock business in 1886, and engaged in the mercantile business in Emerson, under the firm name of Davis & Carrabine. In 1887 went in- to the live stock commission business in Sioux City,Ia.. under the firiri name of Ingerson, Carrabine & Lye. Have one child, a daughter. C. W. Payne came to Dakota county in fall of 1868, and took a homestead on Wigle Creek, now owned by Chris. Bille. Lives in Jackson, Michigan. SETTLERS OF 1868. "2 I ■) [icon W. Gallagiiek was born Septeinber,17,1850. in Westmoreland county, Penusylvania,Hndcame to Da- kota county March lb.t,1868. Was married to Emma Antrim June 17tli, ]882. Have one sou and twodangh- ters. Lives on farm tiiree miles soutli of Hubbard. W. T. Broyhill was born in Monroe county. Teiines!and Isabella Amelia, wife of Eugene Everett, died in Lyons in 1893 Nicolas Maker was born in Ireland. March 28, 1487, and came to Dakota county^ May 5, 1871. ' Settled in Covington, where he resides at the present, engaged in' the grocery business. "'Married in Siojix City, the same year, to Agnes O'Brien. Has three children living — two sons, Wm, B.^and Loyola, iin(! one daughter, Mary Agnes. Was eleoted Sheriff, served,, over eight years in that office. Anders Larson, wasborn in 1831, in Denmark, and came to Dakota county, in May 1871. Took, a homestead three miles southeast of Homer, and one mile and a half south of Col. Warner's place. iNftei'r wards sold his farm and mo'-'ed to Battle Creek, a trib iitary to Omaha creek, so named by William Hols- WQi-th, because two men Colter and.llai'tmen once met SKTTI.EHS OF 1871. 2S;i ll.Ci-e 111 a Siiiguitmiy conflict.- Jli.- step-fon Carl al.-o 11\L'S on tliis strcaiu ju'et iioi'lh of liiin. ]J]:zi:ki.mi, "Way was bom ^'oveinl er 21*. lb I 111 hidiMua. Wa.s niarried in Cass coiuity, ^'ebrai-Ka. to Sarali M. Davidson, and came tolJakota county Jiinc 17, 1871. Camped on the site of Sontli Sioux City. Tooli a iiomestead on north hraiicli of Ell< cicck, wiicic lie has since resided. Has nine children livinu- i\\(, fons, Frank and EvaTi J.; and seven daiigliteis, Jliv. Elizabeth Linefelter, Mrs. Ann Hcrrick,'"'iMrs. Iletiic Surber, Emma, Mary, Katie and Murtiia. JaLius Mkssenhoelkk was born March ;U, Ib'i'J. in, West Khalia Province, Germany. Came to 'Amer- ica and located in Dakota county, in 1S71. Eiiwa^'Cit witli A. T. EIaa.ee in the carpenter tiade, and tritd farming eight years. Sold farm and went to contraci- ing,,aTid building. Postoftice Dakota City. '' Henuv Getsmykr was born in Germany smd cane ;i< Dakota county, J nly 4, 1871. , Took a IioniestcHd mi Fiddlers creek. Now lives tliree miles iioith ot IKiiur. Married in 18()7, to Augnsta BMnkmann. Has thrcv sons and four danghters living. Oiie child dieil.' John T. Spencer was bom in Crawford cor.niy. Pennsylvania,' June 24:, 1844, on a faini. After leayinir the common school he prepared ioi' collejie at the State Norinal. School, Edinboro, I'ennsyhania, and gradiiatcil at Alleslif^cy College, Meadville, Pennsylvania, Jiiin' 23,1870. Was principal of the Union School, at Sherman, ;]\e\v,Tork, one year.' in the nitaii time studying law. Came to Dakota countv, September 11). 1871, and settled in Dakota City where he was ad- , mitted. .to.tlie bar that fall. Took charge of tlie Dakota CityAlail, in 1874 aiid'edited that paper iSnr ye'ais. In 1874 was apjpointcd U. S. Circuit Court Corn December 11. 1842. in Milton, Halton county, Canada. Came to the United, States and landed in l)akota county, in the fall of 1871 and so pleased was he with "this fi;arden of Eden" that he permanently settled at Dakota City, two years' later, where he has remained to the present time, engaged in farming and stock business. Has a good farm north- west of Dakota City and a meadow and hay land south of the same town. Was married to Eva Harden, July 18, 1,881, by Kev. Joel A. Smith. John H. Campbell came to Dakota county, No- vember 1871, and took a homestead where he now lives six miles southwest of Jackson. Married in 1858 to Elizabeth Ann Colter. Has ten children — seven sons and three daughters — all living in Dakota county but three. De. E. J, DeBe'u- is a native of Green county. New York. In 1866 he commenced the study of medicine and graduated at the Albany, New York. Medical College three years later. He then went to Illinois and came to Dakota county in 1871, wheie he was appointed as United States Physician at Winne- bago Agency. Afterwards held the same position at Pine Ridge Agency, D. T. Moved to Dakota City in DR. E. J. DeBELL. SETTLKRS OF 1872. 293 1879 and practiced medicine. AVas niarried to Miss Nellie Warner, Jaiinary 9, 1873. She died at Lyons NeUi-aska, September 8, 1892, leaving a husband and three daughters, Georgin. Florence and Nellie. He i.« iit present post trader at Eosebiid Agency, South Dakota. Jqhn B. Rockwell was born in 1824 and came from Indiana to Dakota county, in 1871. Died at his home in the southern part, of tlie county, September !<=>, 1884, leaving a wife and six children to njoui-n his sudden departure to a purer and' better laud. There are three sons — Eichard D., Stephen and Jefferson; three, daughters— Mrs. John Welker, ' Mrs. Albert I'etc^rnon and Mrs. Wni. Waiters. ' William BKOWW.was born, December 27, 1828, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Jloved to Juniata county, 1835. Served as brakeman on the first rail- road between Colnmbia and Philadelphia,' aiid continu- ed in the I'ailroad service for many years as lireman, conductor, etc. In 1871 came to Dakota county to look up a home. Settled on the bottom southeast of Dakota City where he resides at the present time. Was elected county commissioner in 1884 and re-elect- ed in 1887- Hiis six children living, Samuel A., Wesley, Mrs. 'Jacob Learner, Mrs. Irvine Fisher, Fi-ank P. and Harry. ■ Fkanklin DuNNKLL Came to Dakota county in the fall of 1871 and took a homestead on Omaha creek three miles south of Homer, afterwards, settling on Fiddlers' creek. He was married to. Mary A -.Kimball in Massachusetts and they ha,ye four children, Mrs. Jennie S. Harrington, Mi'^. Wni. A. Ivimball,- Geo. F. and Frederick L., and one adopted child Leslie Shei- man ChurciiilL , SETTLEPS OF 1872. Devillo KnaI'I^ Wiis boni February "..), 18-1 'J, i:i 294 waknkb's history ok Dakota ('odnty. ]\(cIJeiiry county, Illinois. Enlisted in Company i). 15tli Illinois Infantry, afterwards joined tin; Both Vol. Infantry. Taken a prisoner at Harpers Ferry ami purolecl theiiext day; oxclianged for rebel soldier tiie following spring. Was shot in left leg, July 9, 18B3, wliioli necessitated its amputation. Reniiiiied in iios- pital until cd^^e of the war. Married to Syntliia How- ard ill 1869, in Linn county. Wisconsin. Came lo Dakota county, April 4, 1872, and took a liomesteaO on Fiddlers creek, where he lived five years, when lie liroiight his family to Dakota Cit^-, wliei-e lie 0[)erated a wagon shop, etc. Has two cliildren — Daniel and Stella Postoliice, Knoxville, Tennessee. HiBAM Gra.T was born in Canada, Deceinlier 9, 1849 ,ind came to Dakota county, April 9, 1872. Was married to Mif,s Fannie Hazlegrove, and they have three children — Nellie, Harry and Charley. P. O. ad- dress Dakota City. OwKN McIntvre was born in Ireland and cairie to America 1848- Settled in Dakota county May 25,1872, 111 Summit precinct. Was married to Elizabeth Nichols in Ireland. There are six children living and one dead. Three sons — John, Owen and James P;; three daught- ers--Mary Ann, Mrs. Catharine Heenan and Mrs. M. M. Beacom. Geo. C. Bille was born in Denmark, July 5, 1853. Arrived in Dakota county in June, 1872. Mar- ried Anna C; Nelson Septemher'30. 1876. He then set- tled on the farm where he still resides. Has two sons and live daughters — Alice, Matilda, Julia, Mary, EL-^ie, Max and John. Two daughters died with diphtheria. Mr. Bille has one of the best improved farms in what- is called the hills on "Wigle creek. Has a large house, built of stone which lie quarried and did all of his own masonry work. Has a Kne barn by his own labor. Michael Mitchell came to Dakota county June .M/|-ri.KI..'< OK 1,S72. '2.1.) '.). 1872, 1111(1 took a liijiiiostead four miles !f jMckson. NVi-is iiuui-ied a second time to Alary Fogerty. Has four sons iind one daughter. JonN II. Pkikst e;inie to Dakotn connty, Jnly 1. 1872, and took a homestead on Wiojle ci'eek, wliere lie died, lea\-iiig four sons — John Henry. Albert, Lntlier Iv and Kraiik; three daughtei-t, J\lrs. Setii Barnes. Airs. Albert Lake and Mrs. J. J. Spooner. I'"iiANiv Davey was born .luiiei), 1851, in jMiiwan- kee, "Wisconsin. Collie to Dakota comity. July 18. 1872. Married to Mary Barry, iNove-mbfi" 12. "l878, IJas two sons and two drtuajhter.-. One child died. He is keeping a store in Jack^on.and was elected treasurer of I^akota county, iNovemlier 7. 1893. IioiiKKT Campxski.l was born -lamiaiy 2. 1818. in Scotland, and came to America witli his parents, set- tling on the Red Kiver of the North. Went to Ijli iiois and came to Dakota coiintv in 1872. ' Selected the place where he has resided to the present time, four miles south of Hubbard on Pigeon creek, which is ,-i neat Comfortable iiome. Has held a number of ofKces in the county, sn'cli as coroner. ;issessor, justice of the peace, elc. W'as married Jnij 1. 1847i in •'" Daviess. Hiiiiuis, to Minerva W Criii;;-. whose mother was the V DAKOTA COUNTY. (.■oiiiity, ?^ew Jersey. Moved tn IllirKiir; wlu-re he was married to Snsan M. Stanford, April 7, 1856- Cann- to Dakota f,oinity, September 31, 1872. and took a iiomestead on PiiJ;eon creek. Afterwards moved to Homer. Has held the ottice of coiiniy commissioner, justice of tiie peace, road supervisor and town trustee for Homer. Was a Union soldie)- in the Kebcllion. lias two sons — Eugene H. and lliram Leonard; three daughters — Mrs. Martlia Priest, Sadie J. and Pho155 with his wife and three children. Settled in IJaltimore. .Maryland, and afterv\ards lived in Lancasier Cit\'. Pennsylvania, where his wife died. Was marj-ied ii .-econd time in 1865 to Mrs. Hart, motlier of Atlee Hart. Located in Siou.x City, Iowa, in 1871 and ntoved to Dakota City two years later where he resided until his death, August 21, 1884. Hiid one son by iiis second wife, Melford A. Suhmied. :298 warmer's history of Dakota (.'olnty. John Bauool's eaine to Dakota county, November 20, 1873 and worked in Parineter's saw mill in Omadi pi'ecinct. Married to Miss Anna Bliven in 1875. lias ibnr sons — John W., Charles G., Harold B. and Kichard PI.; one danglltei' — Elsie. Lives three miles northeast of Hoiiier. John Hooan is a farmei- on Elk creek, and came to the county, Deceniber 1873. Postoftice Elk Valley, \Vm. Foj.tz vvas horn iii 1844, in Jnniata county Pennsvlvania, and came to Dakota county, March 27' 1874. Located at Dakota City where he has resided 10 the present time. Is a carpenter. ^larried to Mary E. Deering in 1S67. Has seven children — foui- sons and tliree daughters. Enlisted in compuny E. 9th Pennsylvania Ilegiment, September 19. 1864, and "Marched with General Sherman to t)ie Sea."' SETTLERS FROM 1874 TO 1880. Thomas Mitcmkll came to Dakota county, in 1874 and lived in the westei-n p^rt of the county. Was married to Briget Powers in 1881. Has one son and three daughters. Andrkw Fords came to Dakota county April, 1874. Afterwai'ds was enc^ineer on several steamboats and engineei'ed the Silver Lake up the Missouri with supplies in the Ouster Indian war. Married to Libbie Don, in 1873; they have three children, two Kins and one daughter. A UGUSTAND FRKnKK'.cK Wii.KTKS came to Dakotfi county, Api-jl 4, 1874. August was mari-ied in IBBS. Has five childi'en. l!,>ves two miles and a half noi-th- west of Homer. Frederick was married in .1884 '<> Lizzie Ii-enberge. Has four children and lives four 111 lies west of Honker. Elijah IlAiiMOND was horn in 1823, in New York SETTLEES OF 1875. 299 itnc! CHiiie to Dakota county, in 1874. He died in Da- kota City, January 24, 1882, leaving a wife and five children to monrn liis departure to the realms of the blest, four of whom are now livimcr — Almond, Ehoda, Edward and Lettie. Mrs. Hammond was married a second time in 1884 to N. II. Barto, an old settler of Di.xon county. Andreas P. Bille was born in Copenhagen, Den- mark, March 'ZQ, 1814. Was married to Anna Jor- gensen and arrived in Dakota county in the fall of 1874. Died in the spring of 1877- Had four children, one daughter — Marie, wife of John Johnson; three sons— George, Ilenry and John, all living in this county. William Hogan came to Dakota county, March 1, 1875, and lives three miles west of Plnbbard. Has one son---James, and two dsughters — Katie and Mary. Thomas Hogan settled in Dakota county, March 1, 1875 and lives two miles west of Ilnbbard. Has one son and four daughters. Petek Jordan came to Nebraska in 1870 and set- tled in Dakota county, June 9, 1875 in the "Big Tim- ber," eight miles north of Jackson. Has six sons and four daughters. Their eldest daughter is married to FrMUcis fcjiiyder. II. D. RoGKTis was born in Girard, Pennsylvania, November 17, 1882. AVas manned in Edinborough, PennsylvariiH, to Miss Elizaheth Graves, April 25, 1861. Had two ?ons and tiiree daughters- -Win G., Winter S., Marion, Elizabeth and Hai riet S. His wife, one son and one daughtei' are dead. Moved to Dakota county. August 15, 1875, and practiced law, at Dakota City." Moved to Ponca. Dixon county in 1888, vvhich is his present address. JouN Hager came to Dakota county May 3, 1876, and settled in Dakota City where he now resides, l^lar- 800 waener's histciry of dakota codnty. vied October 22, 1864, to Sarah Howurd, Has two sons — John and Jacoli; three daughters — Kosa, Anna and Josephine. Thomas MoKeeyeb was born in Ireland and came to Dakota county March 20, 1877. Bought a farm nine miles west of Jackson where he now resides. Mari'ied to Ann Cuff. Has one son, Hugh. P. O. Elk Valley. James Flvkn came to Dakota county April 1, 1877. Was married to Mary J. Ryan in 1886. Has one son. Is proprietor of a meat market at Jackson. Edward Easton came to Dakota county June 14, 18775 iind settled in Dakota City where lie has since re- sided. Was mai-ried to FaTiny Ream June 5, 1882. He has two sons and one daughter. Patkick Casey was born August 3, 1849, in Ot- tawa, Canada, and came to Dakota county in 1877, lo- cating on a tract of land near the Missouri river, in Summit precinct, eight miles north of Jacicson, where he lias since resided. Was married to Catharine H(id- , gins October 16, 1877, has five children. Served three years as county commissioner.. Andrew J. Parker was born in 1834, in Thomp- son county, New York. Was married to Maggie Wil- cox in 1863, and came to Dakota county February 28, 1878. Novi' owns the old Samuel Deering place foui- miles south of Dakota' City, where he is at present liv- ing. It was under' some largo cottonw:ood trees on this, land that Lewis ifc Clarke held a council with the In- dians August IS and 19, 1804. Has five eliildren — three sons and two dauohters. Tlu'ee children are dead. JosKi^H B. Kelsey was born Octobe^ 6, 1851, in Toledo, Oliii.i, and came to Dakota county March 6v 1878. Opened u|) a furin on Omaha creek, four miles south of lIomer,where he also established the first slieep> ^anch in Dakota county. Was uiarrii'd to Mary 13. Henry SETJ.E..S OK 1S7K. Hi :it WiiiiieI|ajJ<) Aj;eiic_Y, May -Jb, 188:^. Was appointe, postmn.sttM' at Homer, April 3, 1889. \ Louis AND Jamios [jlaxciiaku. two bi'otliers came to Dakota county. March 6, 1878. James was married to Kei'zell Warn.-; ley iti 188.3 — lias two soiis^, Samuel Mild John. Louis was married to Anna Sierk — lias two (laughters, Jennie and Flora. Mes. Elizabeth C. Owens came to Dakota county, March 17, 1878. Her husband died April 6, 1876 in Sioux City, Iowa, leaving one son, Russell, and aeveii daughters, Mrs. Mni'v Norris, Mrs. Hannah M. Cone. Mrs. Olive J. Linkswiler, Mrs. Martha Twamley. Mrs. Hiittie M. Paulson, Louisa E. and Tina I. Lives on a farm two miles and a half north of Homer. D. VV. HoCH eaine to Dakota county, April 4, 1878. Man-ied to Izoria McFarlaiid the same year, Hiis three sons and one daughter. Postofiice Homer. GeoE(JE Peteeson came to Dakota county, July 15,1878. Married in 1870. Has eight children liv- ing. Bouo;lit the old Isaac Monroe place south of Homer. Geo. el Cook ^*'as born in Denmark on the 10th of September, 1849. C5ame to Dakota co.nnty on the ISth (la\- of July 1878. Married to Mary Olson on •the 29tli day of October. 1881. Has two sons and I wo daughters, George. Clarence, Elizabeth and Isa- bella. His postofiice address is Emerson. Ethel Woodard with his wife and three .cliild, . a-en came to Dakota county. August 15, 1878- Lives ■in Dakota City. Carried the mail between Dakota <''.ityand the Wiiun'bago Agency, two jea^s. PuTKii Caknev was born in Ireland and settled in' .'St. Johns pi^ jinct one and a half miles north of Jack- son in 1878. Married in 1858 fo Catliarine Cain, sis- ter oi Michael Cain ojf Hubbard,, and lias six ciiildren,, 302 WAENEU S IIISTOIIY OK DAKo'lA COUNTV. —four sons, Josepli P., Peter F., Henry F. and Mi- chael; two daughters, Mrs. Jolm Beacom and Mary. J. B. EBKYcameto Bnrt county, JS'ehraska. in 1877 and settled in Dakota county, the following year, where he folljwed tlie milling bii^iness. Was mariied in 186G. lias one son and two dan^hters. I'osttiffice, J jester, iowa. Samuel Rymill was born in England imd c'nne to Dakota county, November 1, 187U. Married to Mury E. Atkins of Ohio. IIiis two sons and. four danghterf. Lives on a farni four miles and a half south-east of Homer. John Manning came to Dakota, county, February 19, 1880. and settled on Walker's Island northeast of Dakota City, where lie now resides. Has three sons and three dau<;-htei'S. Enlisted in. coinptiny E. 88fh Indiana Infanti-y, and sei'ved three years. Dr. D. C. Stinson Cfinie to Dakota county from Ohio. June 4, 18S0. Was mai-ried to Lizzie Moon in Kunsas October li, 1875. Has thi-ee children living and one dead. Opened up a diaig store at Dakota City. Graduated at Keokuk. Iowh, Medical College. June 16, 1874.' Grs A. IfENBRRo was born in Germany April 4, 1867 and came to Dakota County, June 15, 1880- Farmer in Emerson precinct. Married to Jennie Bectche at Dakota City February 12, 1890. Jamks B. Smith was bdrn June 8, 1847, find set- tled in Dixon county, JS'ebras-ka, in 1868 Cnme to Dakota county in 1880- Mari'ied in 1867- to Susan J. Holmes and lias live sons — George, William, Burt, Cliett and Josialr. three daughters - Mrs. Albert Ar- nold, Minnie and Blanche P O. Jackson. Terrence-Culkiw came to Dfd at Jackson. Mar- OTIIKK SICTl.KKS. 1303 i-ied a second time in 1880 to Ann Dillon. Has tliree Bons iuid tliree flnno-liteis. Beajamin V. Sawvkk came to Dakota counts, August, 21, 1880, and settled in Jackson. MaiTied tn Katie Boler. June 5. 1S82. Has two adopted children. Was Deputy Sliei'iff til ree years and County Coroner two years. Engaged in the livery business and is pm- prietor of an undertakers establishment. WiiJ.iAM Kknkiokh settled in Dakota county. Novein1>er 1, 1S8(I, oil a farm six miles north of Jack- son. Married in 1852, in Franklin county, Pennsyl- vania to Mary Weaver. Has three sons — William \V.. Simon R. and Henry; three daughters — Mrs. Alice M. Bowles, Hattie and Emma C. OTHER SETTLERS. W. R. KiNKEAD and wife, April 1881; Post- office Dakota City. Has four sons and three daughters. Enlisted in company F. 12th Michigan Veteran Vol. Infantry. D. W. Wakefield came from Indiana county. Pennsylvania, to Dakota county, March 14, 1881. Married to Blanche Smith, in 1880. Has four chil- dren living. Two children are dead. William Warnock was born March 12, 1844, and settled in Dakota county, November 1, 1871, where he took a homestead, which he sold, and moved to Emer- son in 1^81, l)uilding the lirst residence in that town. When our flag was iired upon by rebel hands he en- listed in company I. 126th Illinois Volunteer Infantry and served three years. Married to Zilpha Brown, September 20, 1866, in Rock Island connty, Illinois. Has one daughter, Mrs. Mattie Fales. T. J. Clakk landed upon Dakota county soil, March 14, 1882. Was married to Katie Ryan, August. oOi- WAKNKk's IIISTOUY UV DAKOTA COUNTV. 1885, and lias two daiiglitei's. Keeps a geiiei'ul stoie ill Jaclh the wel- come I am called upon to extend U> one and all liei'e today. In the welcome here your President ean'rtiily in an imperfect mannei' pei'tbi'm his part. The woi'k of making this a most Mgi-ee:ible and- pleasant reunion, to be a compleie success, innst be done !iy each and every one. To this end let lis lay aside all stiff for. mality ami cnld i-eserve a.-id gi'eet each otiier and all wlio are with ns as we did in the early days when we visited in i nde cabins and "dug outs." Let us trv foi- a ibiy tn liv-e the ]>;ist o\'er au-ain, and our ^-.-itiieriiK'- will then be^a pei'fect success. AVith a, t'nU lieai-t I greet yoii and extend a njost cordial wej- :j22 WARNBr'S HISTf'RY OF DAKOTA (BOUNTY. come to this our fourth annual rennion of the pioneert; ;uid old settlers of Dakota county. We do not claim snpei'icr [iierit for the old settlers liver tlie new, but from natural causes and conditions they wiu) cnt loose from old homes of the older com- munities — who leave the graves of their ancestors and the homes of their fathers to bring the ?avajj;e wilds of a new country nnder the hand of man and present as an Mcqnisiti(jn to civilization rnnst necessarily he brave and courageous. They must be intellio-ent and self reliant. Tliey mnst have outgrown the gi'egariousnesa of their barbaric ancestors and arrived at the full measure of independent manhood. Not that they have outgrown tliu ti'ue social character of our race, bnt on the con- trai'y they become inore cosmopolitan and regard all men as brothers. The pioneers in all countries are I he most hf>spitable aiid generous class of men, ever I'eady to welcome the stranger to the humble home and to divide the meager rations with him. The world lauds, the historian flatters, wliile poets -ing the praises of him vyho conquors a fair country and forcibly takes from those who have by their patient toll liiiilded for themselves ple:i,sant homes and luxurious surroundings. How much more credit is due to those will) find — found and build a country for themselves? Their conquest is not over a country in ruins with devastated fields, villages, cities and botries. No fel- lows rights are disresj'arded or property apprcipriated in conquest i>y tho' damnable doctrine of the ancients that 'might makes right.' Peace hath its victories no les? than war. Ours is such a one. O'lr cmiquest 1.=; liver the wild forces of nature, bring them under tribute to the wants of man and the requirements of civilization :ind commerce. That our lot has been cast in^ such a goodly land we ."^honkt be truly thankful. When our eyes first be- held this counti'y n-ith rank iijrowth of vegetation and herbiige, nothing short f)f prophetic vlsiou could Imve rlONEKlJi AND OLD SKTTLKRS ASSOCIATION. 'A2S foi-fsei'ii tlie DaK-ofii county of to-di-.y witli its wealth of crops and espiioially the wilderness of growing- corn wliicli is not excelled by any county in the state or United States! 1 have nevei- been so fully impressed with tliis thought as during an extended jonrne-y to tht' east of Ub this season, through the states of Iowa, Illi- nois, Michigan. New York, all tJie New England states, Pennsyjvania, New Jersey atid Maryland, also a long inn througU (Janada. I assure you that on mv return 1 fountl mure corn in bulk to the acre in our county than on any two acres 1 saw in all mv ramble. Be- sides I f(nind that the people in fai' east are behind us. In nearly every instance east of Michigan they were cutriug their hay with the old scythe and the wheat with the cradle. This may be because a machine could not pass between the rocks and their neighbor wouldn't Jet tlieni have room to turn around; their ticlds are too small to tuiu in They are ahead of us in one thing ni- pleted the estrai'gement of sections until brother was i-eady to meet brother in deadly cimfiict. ^Vhile Ne- braska was the iniKicent cause of the trouble her pirt in the g'reat couttst was necessarily limited, yet the territory of jS'ei)raska did her little part nobly, in pi'oportion tu members she gave of her sons as freely as the states. Some oi Dakota county's bloud mi'igled with that of the nation which flowed so freely in a. holy cause. Some of her si^iis sleep beneath the southern shades. 'Ou fame's eternal camping ground * Their silent tents are spiead, While glory guards with solemn round The Ijiviouac of the dead.' During the great contest the wheels oi' progress in nnr section were turned backward. A thi'eatened In- dian war almost depopulated the county. kor a time it looked as if this fair land would aj/ain be the lierit- aii'e of the Indian and the bulfali). But when the white \vingcd do\'e of peace <.inct» nuji'e Inooded over onr af- flicted country and war's desolation ceased, a new era dawned upon our county. As with the nation at large out of death sprung new life. The great energies PIONKKRS AND OLD SETTLEEIS A>SO(:IATION, 325 which tlie war developed were turned to the paths of peace until today the nation stands a century ahead where only two decades are passed. In this general progress we have also shared liberally. But I tnnst not longej trespass upon the ground of other speakers in an address of welcome. I fear I have already stolen some of our orator's thunder. Another year is past and we see many of the familiar faces"'of 20 to 25 years ago. Time'' has dealt kindly with our pioneers Many have survived the ij^uarter of a century since first we met in Dakota county. Some have removed to other lands; otlirr.-- have gone to their long homes. They sleep beneath the soilof their chosen county. Since our last meet- ing some have gone to the silent land; but still a larger number live and remain with us. Let us rejoice that so ni.iiiy ai'e with us to-day. Again I welcome you. one and all. and expi'ess the hope that we may enjoy many more of these annual nieetincrs." FolhiwincT is .Mr. DibbleV address at this meet- (-1 ing: "dakota codjsty." '•Ladiks and Gkntlkmen: — When- the fii'st white man placed foot within the confines cf. what is now known as Dakota county, or to whom belongs that honor is yet unknown. It is prub- al)le though that some wandering Arab of the prairie the restless Indian trader — iii'st overlonked the broad Mis:-nnri bottom, saw the peaks of the adjacent hills overlapping one anot])ei- in symmetrical beauty and oazed (hnvn upon thee.xpanse of ris-er. sparkling in the sunlight like a silver fhr«^ad, meandering in endless con"n-;ion to the sea. Wl at must have been the t!;(m^rhts and feelii'gs incident to a scene like that^ And if he were here tixbiy what a change must iiave com!' over the spirit of his dream. 82b waknek's histoky of uakota county. Where not fifty years ago, you now sit circled with all that exalts and embellishes civilized life, the rank thistle nodded in the wind, today the thistle still nods and is considered by experience to be rank, very indeed. Then the wild coyote dug his hole nnscared. today he is dug out of his hole by a medley of men and hounds, who are all in a hnrry to be in at the death and give chase until he gains another liole, also unscared. Then lived and loved another race of being says Sprague; beneath the same sun that rolls over your heads the Indian pui'sues the panting deer — today the panting hunter pursues the deer; gazing on the same moon that smiles on you the Indian lovei- wooed his dusky mate; the pale face still wooes, l)ut today the smile of the maid has more charms than the smile of the moon. Change toncdies the dimpled cheek of the infant and he becomes the bearded nian; he traces wrinkles upon the brow ot the aged and intersperses silver threads among the golden tresses. He places his hand upon the ci-adle and it becomes a eolKn. Rations rise cast abroad the luster of- their nances; change says "-Presto" and they fall. 'Turn, turn my wheel all tilings must change, 'I'o something new to soruething strange, Nothing that is can pause and stay, The moon will wax, the moon will wane. The mist and clouds will turn to rain, The rain to mist and eloud again. To-morrow be to day.' This law of mutation which is liere, there and everywhere, a pai't of n'atui-e's plan, yields willing obedience to man, hiiriself a servant and creature of change. It can be for better or for worse, according as he wills it by his energy or his sbvth. B-etter that a child should never be born than tl>at he should joiih the army of sluggards. Better that a region shonlds remain in its pristine wilderness, its native granduei;- than that it should be idolently or carelessly redeemed. The county in which we reside, was bora Maj'ck,, riONEEKS AND OLD SETTLBKS ASSOCIATION. 327 1855, duly christened Dakota after the Dakota Indians, and sent forth to battle with the world to gain riches. fame, glory, success and perforce happiness; and now that the thirtieth milestone has been reached, now that thirt}' harvests have been reaped, garnered and distributed, it is pre-eminently a proper time to rake over the embers of the lire and listen to the cricket on tbe hearth, and it does not require an acute ear to hear this philosopher say that progress has been steady and great. To an inliabitant of the slow, conservative eastern coast it would seem incredible to hear re- lated that in a growth of thirty years within an area of 180,000 acres, and without any large town a county in the west had attained a population of 4,005, it would cause his "hair to stand on end and hi.s voice to stick in his throat" when he realized that without a sign to mark the presence of man 35 years ago. There are now 225 square miles in Dakota county, djtted thickly with neat, couiniodious and elegant dvrelling houses, the native bai'eness relieved by 700 acres of home made forests, traversed its entire length by the iron horse, and supplied with busy thriving,snergetic towns. What old settler is there here today who would have been bold enough to pi'ophesy that in 1885 there would be in cultivatitiii and raising wheat 10,000 acres, corn 15,- 000 acres, oats, barley and potatoes 3,000 acres ^ T'ell me old settlers, if in your wildest dreams of Utopian plenty, did you dare to tliink that in thirty years, scarce thirty years, there would be 3.000 horses, 12,000 cat- tle, io.Oi»U Iki-j-s and property to the taxable value of ^SOO.OOU'^ If there was or is such a man let him step forward, for he is a prophet greater than Elisha.. Re was an (iptimist, he liad unlimited conlidence and he has seen it vertihed. Fnrthermoi'e there is this thought whatever has been wj'ouiilit in this county has been done by the uiUfcle and deterniination of its citizens. Large amounts of capital have not been invested, onr people 828 wabnee's history of dakota oodnty. for the most part came here poor men and whatever competence they may have attained has not been the result ot big interest 'on big investments but a mod- erate income due to good judgment and liard work. The student of political economy sees much cause lor congratulation in a conditiou like this, all things are on a iirm equitable basis; where all men are comfortablY well off there may be fluctuations but never distress, there may be hard times but the people of '-JJakoia county" will live and make money. Tiie spirit of change means here the spirit of progress. Note the improved machinery, tlie better grade of cattle, the introduction of tame grass, and the raising of the standard of the farm in evfry particular; and yet they have not gone too fast. There are very few mortgages hanging like an angry thunder 'iloiid over the farms and it is to be prayed theie niay never be more. P^inaily allow me to ask what better lot could fall to main than to be a farmei- in the county of the Dakota. The turtle dove coues of peace and good will in the forest which his hand has made in the pasture, his cattle chew the cud of contentment, the tassels waving in the i)reez;e and the golden grain pro- duced by a soil which was never known to fail, tell him of a good living and a little more. This is the picture and it represents work of the hands and woi'k of the brain luxury and liberty culture and contentment. Any person wImi owns a farm in Dakota county and has it paid for is lixed as '-snug as a bng; in a nio-" and if he is not fah'ly satisfied it is a foregone conclu- sion that he couldn't be; that if he rolled in the wealth of Croesus he would object to the cnlor of ^old, that if he sipped of nectar wiMi the Gods lie would find fault with its flavor, but fortiinatelv tiiere ai'e few of such people in this coinmnnity. If they occasionally see the opposite side of the picture I have portrayed, if the cows throw aw:i,y the ciul of contentment and get into the corn they quietly drive them out audflx the t'ence. I'lONHERS AND OLD SETTLKKS ASSOCIATION. 3211 Jf once in a life time a gentle zephyr rudely uproots a few of the trees and hastily overturns a few windmills (jiir people on the morrow plant some more trees and erect better mills, (there are also caves promptly dug, lint that is irrelevant to the question.) If occasionally it is too wet for wheat or too dry for the corn our peo- ple do not don the orow of despondency and look as if ihey had seen their last friend and had a fij/ht with him but the chances are they will be pl-anning for nextyears" crop, and pointing with pride to tiie fact this is the very fir>t reverse in the last ten or fifteen years. And by the way don't be asliamed of that word "Pkide," fondle it, caress it and don't lose it. Have a proper pride in tlie county which has made you and which you have helped to mal'ie. We love our government, our state and let us extend the same spirit to the community in which we live. Let us try to make our part of the United States of America as progressive, as beautiful and as moral as we can. It is a part of us, "bone of our bime and flesh," If we adorn pur homes let us do 'it with the thought that we are adorning our county, our state and our Union. As a single ray of light passes through the prism and becomes the seven colors of the rain-how, so will a strong pride in our county foster sucial relations, combat selfishness, instill patriotism and fill the soul witii noble and happy thoughts. l)akota connty in the past has been progressive, Dakota connty in the present is on a firm foundati(jn with the outlook good; what will Dakota county be in the future? Old settlers, your- heritage to your children is great and worthy of yc)ur vnior. Settlers of todsiy, it i^■ a pertinent 'piesrinn to yon. what shall your heritage be? Again thei-e will be a change; it can not be avoided, it must be made subservient. 'Turn, turn my wheel all life is brief. What now is bud will soon be leaf, M'hat now is leaf will soon decay. ■)-j(l WAKM',,.- N l!ls'n)K\' ()]■ DAICOIA ('(H.NTi'. The wind blo\VK (-ast the winds lilnw west. The blue csg^ in tlie robins nest. \\ ill soon iiavB Avings and heak and crest. And rtutter and tly away. Tliei'el'i'i'e it iiinv reasoniiblv ''e expected tli;it by lie lime '.liii-ty fen:-oiis shall liave cdiiie and joined tliosc rliat have ^ono on before, that mam of those who ai-e pioneers and old settlers now ^\\U be new settlers ill the land «diieh is beyond the I'ising snn, and that i!ie j'onni;- men of the present will be old settlei's then. It m-.iy reasona!)ly be expected, even airiid the \ ieissitnde.s of human foi'tnne, that Dakota comity will (•(■ntinne to prosper and increase in wisdom and plenty. 1 1 is expected of yon y^inig men and women, into ^^llose lumds this trust will soon be given, that yon will iidvanee the comity in intelligence, morality and wealth. It is expected of you that you will Ueep step with the march of progress, that you will — ■ )^e bold, be bold and everywhere be bold- -Better the excess. Than the defect, better the more than les.s, lictter like Hector in the Held to die. Than like a perfumed Paris, turn and fly."' FIFTH ANNUAL REUNION. / The association aLj;ain met, and held their fiftii re- nni(>n in Hlieman's grtive, Saturday, An^'ust 14-, 18^0, Williani Worley acting as cbaplain. Col. J. F. Warner delivered the aiii>iial address (if welcome assigned to^ the president. The memorial cominiitee cunsisting of Williaiii llolsworth, Sam A. Combs and .\J. M. Warner then oHei'ed i-eeoliiticnis on the deaths of William C. AIc- Beatii, Williau] Covell, Enos Whinery and Cinis. P). liayliss, which were adopted by the Hssociati(jn, An. athlress was then madi; by William li. Smith of Sioux PIONEEKS AND OLD SETTLERS ASSOCIATION. 331 City, Iowa. The following officers were chosen for the ensiling year; Col. Harlan Baird, President; Leonard Bates, Vise President; Thomas Ashford, Treasurer; D. C. Dibble, Secretary; Tim Carrabine, Corresponding Secretary. Memorial committee: William Holsworth, Gerald Dillon and Curti-s B. Bliven. Sam A. Combs offered a resolution that the society select a historian whose duty it shall be to write bio- graphical sketches of the members, The resolution was adopted and M. M. Warner chosen historian for the association. SIXTH ANNUAL REUNION. , Hilemau's grove was again selected as the place to hold the sixth annual reunion, on Saturday, August 13, 1887. Duvid Boals acted as chaplain and Col. J. F. Warner delivered the address of welcome. For and in behalf of the association he extended to one and all a coidial greeting, and expressed a hope that they might be pei-iriitted to meet on many more such' happy occasions. He compared the wild and uncivilized scenes of thirty years ago with the grand changes which we today liehold while viewing the beautiful farms and pleasHiit liomes of Dakota comity. Lieutenant W. F. Norris followed with the oration of the day. He paid a jjlowing tribute to the wealtii and prosperity ol Da- kota county, ;ind the energy and enterprise of her peo- ple. "^I'lie nieiiiorial committee then offered I'esohitions on the deaths of John JL Maun and Daniel Dng^an, which weie ;i(Jopted. Election of officers for the en- sning year resnlted as follows: Dr C W., Wilkinson, president; Jot^eph Braunan, vice president; M. M. Warnei'. i-ecretarv and historian; Thomas Asbford. treasurer; W. C. Dibble, cori'espondiiig i-ecretary. '■''■12 WAKNEB'S HISTCiRY of DAKOTA I'OUNTY. SEV.EJNTH ANNUAL KEFNION. s Once more the associntion met in irs sevenrli an- imal reunion at [-lileman's grove, on Saturday, Septem- ber 1, 1888, David Boals acting as chaplain. The president, Dr G. W. Wilkinson. delivered ihe address of welcome. Speeches appropriate foi' the occasion were then made by Leonard Bates, J. G. G. lioskins of Sioux Gity, Iowa, Jesse Wigle, N. S. Porter of Ponca, Gol. C. D. Martin, Gol. Jesse F. Warner, S. A, Gomlis and Dennis Armour. The following officer.^^ were elected for the ensuing year: - Leonard Bates, l)resident; D. C. Dibble, vice president; M. M. Warnei-, secretary and historian; Atlee Hart, cor- i-esponding secretary; Thomas Ashford, treasurer. EIGRTa ANKUAL REUNION. The eighth annual reunion w;is held on the gnmnd of the Homer Driving Park associati(;i!, near Uomei-. on Saturday, August 17, 1889. liev. I^eardshear, of Ponca, acted as chaplain. The president, Leonard Bates, delivei'ed the address of welcome. The oration of the day was delivei'ed by Gov. , Jcdm M. Tha_)ei'. The memorial committee hud reforde Mrs. , V. A. Robinson, William A. Campbell, John Howa'-d, Mrs. Caleb A.ntrim, Jr., Mi's. Joseph Goodnow, John McGee and James Lahey. In the afternoon Mell C Jay delivered the following eloquent address; "the wheels of progress." "Mk. PeksidI'.jst, Labihs and Gektlkmen: — The toast master has required of me a difficult task — to repiy to the toast, '-The Wheels of Progress," and thar, too. in five minutes The priigress of maukind embraces the history of tlie woi-ld, and tliis our civilizatic)u, imperfect as it may be, is the result of long centuries of struggle and toil. This fail' land of ours, covered with homes and harvests, filled with the sound of industry, has been made possible only by a contest that has been as bitter as the human passions a'nd as long continued as the centuries. Human progress is oidy possible with human lib- erty. You chain a man's hands and yon chaiti bis heart anil brain. It has been frequently asked how it was possible foi' this repulJic to make the advancement in a hundred vears that other tuitions In.ve failed to reicli in centuries. The answer is, because this government be- lieved in the pi inciple that before nations made citizens. PIONEEES AND OLD SETTLERS ASSOCIATION. 337 a great nature had made men; men free to act plan an think for themselves. When the leaders of the revolution were canvassin'r the advisability of issuing the declaration of independ- ence. Tom Payne said: -'That under the principles of the gx)vernment, resting upon the will of the people, there would spring forth upon this continent, an em- pire tliat would stretch fi-om sea to sea, and whose power and influence would be felt world wide, and whose civilization would be reflected wherever the hearts of men throbbed with the love of justice, lib- erty and law." It was a prophecy, to be sure, but it came true. Tiien was lit the great beacon light of progress, that wms to light, and guide, and direct hu- manity ill the Solution of that most difficult problem, a government, for and throu_ii;h the people. The con- test was long and bitter, but the progress has been sure. A ciaifiict that was to test our form of govei'nnient in the great ci'uciljle of conlliot; a contest that was to people our soil with thousands of graves, whose occu- pant.-- had giviju'ali, that the light of liberty and prog- ress sliould not go out, and that the love of human I'icrhts should at lubt bear down all opposition. We liave not yet I'eached that point, but have made wonderfiil advancement, in thiit direction. \V'e are frtqueutly told that American advance- ment and American progieas is 'a mytli, guided and diiected by iiad man and bad motives, in which human right.- are luc^t sight of; but be not deceived — true thei'e ai-e ;il(n-e.-. Men ai'e iiOl perlect, neitiier are govem- nlellt^. but the piirp'ises of our pfopie are. right; sumt- tinie.^ |).;.-:,i(Hi and prijudice may Ciog the great wheels of i)i-(i'i-i' ...'•, but in' the end all will be well, ['"rom the ... time tm- li^unaus c.nried then' eiigles over the wo/'ld to the rei-n "f iln- English King deui'ge. there ^lalkrd jiliiiur a irrim specu'c of wai', or famine, of sla\fi'y and of lu.-r, till the wurld was ilrenched and re-iii enclied with tear.- and vvitli the l.iiood of starving and mnrdtied ■J88 waknek's histoey of dakota ihiukty. iniilions. But through it all there still lived that love of lui'.iiiui liberty, that was at last debtined to be reflected ill the American republic. Not in one direction only have we seen the advance- ment of the wheels of progress, but in > everything that a(h:ls to or contributes to the happiness nr comfort of man. In the industrial and intellectual worlds the peo- f)le have kept pace with the centuries, and under the impulse of American genius the. great powers of elec- tricity and sreum have wrought a j'evolution in the coiVi- mercia,l and industrial world. (>ur civilization has extended to the fui-thermost parts of the earth and the history of our progress has ^tii'red the hearts wherever intelligence and enterpi'ise is known an.l respected by men. Do not nndersta,i)d me to say that onr government is yet perfect, but the great wheels of progress are turning the right direction. Lincidn signed but one page of the emancipation of n)en; there is anothei" yet to sign, and soon, and when that is signed it will take out of the cotton mills and coal mines of the east, thousands of little children and feed and clothe and school them. Then will nevei' be lieaid the ti'amp, tramp, tramp of armies of nieu out of work. Then it will not be necessary to settle disputes bftween eniployer and empiloyoe by gunpo\vd,er and steel. Then will bo taken 1'roin the sti-eets of our cities the thousands of young Women anj)risoner blend into- the strains of a widening freedom, and the wheels of pi'ogress will roll on until every question b3t^veen man and man will be considered a qneotion of moral economy.. PIONEERS AND OLD SETTLICKS A_SSi)0tA.T£01Sr. §39 till one man will not be allowed to offer charity wlier e he offers justice. But the other day the news wastlashe d over the sea that even aristocratic England had declared in favor of Piouie rnle for old Ireland. Yes, the light of human liberty and progress is still shining on land and sea. Let ns hope that its light may never grow dim, but let it light poor humanity until the great chorus will roll round the entire earth. "Peace on earth, good will towards men.'' Tiie following was wi-itten by Dr. G. W. Wilkin- son on "the early settlers of dakota county." "Me. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: — To do justice to the early settlers of Dakota county as I view thctn, to tell of their gciod qualities as I have known them, to set them before the world as I have seen them, to re-count their heroic deeds fn the army and their noble deeds at home, would i-equire not five minutes, but days; not a short paper like this, but a book. The early settlers of Dakota county came here from almost every state in the Union, from the Do- minion iif Canada, and from every country of Europe. They jostled down together, I'ounded off each others square coriiei-s, copied each others good qualities, drank water out of the same tin dipper, drank something else out of the same jug, faced the same blizzards, cussed the "^anie grasslifippers, shared rhe last ^ ten' pounds of coi-n meal, divided the last peck of potatoes, until they came tn be bound together by ties that can never le broken in this life, more like brothers than neiglibors, and iiecame knit together into the best and the most harnninioiis conimnnity in the state of Nebraska. I wisli I had hours of time in which to tell you of the snrpassing excellence of character, of the individnals of the earlv settler? but that is impossible. I hope and HiO Warner's history of dako'ia county. Iielieve that tlie coming race of men and women of Da- kota oonnty will be an honor to the state and to hninan- ity. The best I can wish for them is that they may be ill! honor to their parents, the early settlers. And I pre- dict tliat these young men and maidens fifty yeais from now, when their hair is grown gray and their eyes are grown dim, will gratefully remember the early settlers (if Dakota county, and say, we nei'er shall see their like n^rain. Already the people of Dakota county are beginning to i-everence the memory of Wm. McBeath, of Daniel Dnorgan. of Col. Warner, of Jas. Stott, of John How- ard, of John HefFernan, of John , Maun, of Goodwin Taylor, of Jolin Ryan, and scores of others who have j_i)ne before. And of the early settlers who are still living, what shall we sa-y? To look into their faces, to take them by the hand, to hear their cordial greeting, to breathe the ::tniosphere of tlieir honest welcomes of each other and of one and all, is a true inspii-ation. Tiiey are worthy Miiis of a noble state. To name them would take all ('ay. They are all about you here. You can't go amiss. 1 hat man at your elbow is one of them. When these children come to look back thi-ongh the gulden haze of fifty years they will .appreciate the true worth of these, God's noblemen. But if we say so inuch of the men of the eai'ly f-'cttlers, what can we sny of the women ^ They shared (inr hardest hit without complaining. Our privations '^ere here onh- in gre;iter deuree. If we liad but three j'Olalots f'oi- dinut'i', ghy ate l)Ut one. She has summered and wintered us ;:ll these ytai'.^. IShe lias smodtlied our Sunday sliiits, and our I'utiied temper. They sewed on (air buttons end spanked imr babies and boiled our po- liitoes, and now and then, when ('(.•casi(»n reipiired it, .-he ga\-e us ;i piece of her mind, and told us lot- of ti'uth about us, anil It (lid us goijd. .And then she tdok up the burd-^n of lile iigain, patiently toilin:^', burdened PIONEERS AND OLU eE'lTLKES ASSOCIATION. iiil with cares and anxieties we could not share; witli (/!ii-istitin spirit slie led her children and us in the bet- ter "ay. Time's footprints are putting wrinkles on !iei' brow. The frosts of many winters are gathering on her head. But to us she-seems more beautiful than eve;-. Gi)d bless her. The early settlers are the crowning glory of Daknt.i county, and Dakota county is the crowning glory of tlii. the l)e.-t state of all this glorious American land. Oui- early settlers are the best pioneei's of the whole woi'M Their wives are a little better than the men. Our youiiL; irien are the most promising of all and onr young wonie.n have promised to inai'ry them, or will when they are asked to, our children are the brightest and our babies are the sweetest, our apples are ihe bigge&t and our chei'ries are the reddest, our corn is the tallest and our soil is the richest of any in this big round world. Ami jiway cl had (lejiarted to the silent laud during the past year. Mell C. Jay then responded to the toast: "Eulogy to the Pioneers." Remarks were made by Dennis Armour. Ed. T. Kearney and Isaac Pendleton. Folhwing is a beautiful poeiu comported and read on this occasion by Mr. Kearney in opening his address: PIONEERS AND OLD SETTLERS ASSOCIATION. 34^! HAIL PIONEER! Kail Pioneer — through the woodland — glad resounding, Come the shouts of joy and glee; Banners waiving, mirth abounding, Causing -sorrow grim to flee. Once a year— the scences repeated, While the autumn still is young. And thou- oh, Pioneer - who in these sylvan shades Didst first Dame Nature battle give, flrst rudely mar The forests grim repose- carving from out her rugged trunks A lowly, happy home -aye, upon her bosom, wildly fair, Made there thy haven and thy rest. Hail, Pioneer— nor deem it wrong, When the autumn with the ripened stores comes tripping o'er the hills. With its garnered fruits and grains; Ilail thou -oh, sturdy I'ioneer — who when thy years were young. Thy strength and vigor, zeal and nerve, against Dame Na ture flung, Unfair seemed then the conflict, as a gnat against lion strong But (jod was with the Pioneer, to Him the thanks belong. Full long thy aiduous labor— full sore thy grievous pain, hut now the victory's won -thy toil hath beautified the I plains: b or age thy praises will be sung, thy name held ever dear. Long mayest thou live, and dying find sweet peace -oh Pitjneer Officers were cliosen fur tlie ensuing year as fol- lows: John W. Hazlearove, President; Capt. Cornelius O'Ciinno)-, Vice President; John T. Spencer, Secretary; M. .M . \Varner, Historian; Tlios. Asiiford, Sr., Treasurer; William P. WaiMier. Corresponding Secretary; A. H. Baker, Kinaiu-ial Secretary; Sam A. Combs, John T. Spencer and Gerald Dillon, Menjorial Committee. It was decided to iiold the next annua! rennion at Dakota City, in Clinton Park, Thursday, Aug. 16, 1894. ANECDOTES. CHAPTER XIX. Pioneers' "Experience Meeting."— Stokies of Ye Olden Times. BELONOKL) TO THE COUNTY. A. II. leaker told the following: It was in 1857. when two sti'nnirei'.s coininc from tlie steamhoat landino' ;it Dakota City found a !S20 gold piece. Eoth saw it «C llie ^anio insiaiit. bnt of course only one of them could pickit up, and the fellow that yot left appealed the case lo (,'liauncy A. Hon', Prohitte Judj;;e. His Honor, with all the difrnity of a judge, asked the man to let him seou his mind that it would make an ex cellent bon-tire — but his father's great stack, wliere, O where was it — go ask of the flames tiuit devoured it. IT WAS A BIU SPREE. In 1857 Omadi's leading lights uotilied nil th« STORIKS OF YK OLDKN 'I'lMKS. 847 town citizens that tlio credit and stability ot the place depended on its drinking qualities — and sent notice^ out tli=it EVERY man in town had to get druuk. Thii- was glorious news to nine-tenths of them, but the others resisted, whereupon "the boys prociedecl to catch tlietn and poured the whiskey into their months with a funnel; one old man was forced to drink two bottles, of castor o'l in lieu of whiskey; Hen- ry Ream "'stood them all off," and said, ''gentlenien I am not going to drink, and now if you vvant anything;- more, just come along;'' but they did not want to tackle liis fighting qualities, and then went to the hotels and poured whiskey in all the dishes, in the sugar bowls aiid over tJie butter. FOUND LOTS OF FENCES. John Bay started from Julius Floeder's saloon one night to go down to the Bates Plouse, in Dakota City. His steps were not as steady as they might liave been and instead of going down Broadway he went to the middle of the block north of that street, and then, sup- posing that he was on the right street, he proceeded to- vvai'ds tiie hotel, climbing over fence after fence. The next morning, looking up the street he inquired of the landloi'd '-where in thunder are all those fences that I climbed over last night while 1 was coming down Broad- NEWSPAPER BURIAL. '•Turn backward, turii backvvard the tide of the years" until we get a glimpse of the once flourishing iiiwii of Omadi, which stood where the turbulent waters of the Old Muddy today "roll downwaid to the sea." The town was located about five miles south of Dakota (.ity on the banks of the i-iver. and in July, 1857, Geo. 348 WAKNKii's llidTOltV OF DAKOTA UOUNTY. W, Rust established the Omadi ExTEbtPursK, which was the first newspaper ever printed in the coutity. In 1858 the paper was sold to Griffin & Taffe and died a "natural death" the same year. (Jol. B. Bates, one of our oldest pioneers, tells the following story in connec- tion with the sad fate of the ENTKBPUtSK and how grate- ful citizens honored it with a fitting and becoming funeral: '•After the last issue had been published and the sad news heralded over the country chat the paper was dead, forever dead, a number of men from Omadi gathered together all the copies of the ExrEKPRisu; that could be found and proceeded to give the poor dead paper one of the most imposing funerals ever since iiiven to a news- paper. The funeral train started northward from Om- adi. chanting a sad and solemn funeral dirge. As ox- en were very scarce in those days and horses scarcely ever seen, it is supposed that the pall-bearers strapped the corpse upon their backs. When they reached the place now owned by W. P. Altemus the pall-bearers "struck" for a rest, and then and there the idea dawned upon their minds that they had gone far enough out of town to lay out a cemetery. Some one was chos- en as sexton, who at once l^a^au to dig the grave. Af- ter it was completed the pall-bearers walked up and gently and tenderly laid the lust remains of the Omadi Entisbpkise in its eternal resting place. And such a fu- neral sermon as was there delivered has probably never been equaled to the present time for its eloquence and solemnity. Then they chanted a beautiful requium and the soft and gentle strains were wafted on until they died away in the wild dense timiier. About this time the pall-bearers showed signs of uneasiness and fatigue and one of them remarked that 'it was oettino- to be a long time between drinks,' and proceeded to make a motion that the congregation was, gettintr to be exceed- ingly dry. The motion carried with a -liip-iiurrah.' Then was enacted a genuine Bull Run upon the primeval prairies of Dakota county. It was a run for the ••Calf STOKIKS OF YE OLDKN TIMKS. 349 Tail." a f-:il(>(jn wliicli wafc situated in the soiitli-eastern pait of Dakota City. The pall- hearers, preacher and all iofuot the dignity of their positions and got 'gloriously drunk,' which was, as they termed it. an appropriate and littiiirr token in coninieinoratioii of the death of the Entkhpuise. TOWN STAKES. y\ni()S Lampson said one dav in thesurainer of 1857 whtMi nearly nil of Dakota county had been laid off in- to town lots he went down to the river to see a steam- l.oat land. On board the steamer was PVank West, -ahdut full' as usual. West staggered up to Captain Wyhuid and told him that he was a fool for hauling jjassengers and freight up to this country. The Capt. asked him what he would carry if he did not bring passengers and freight. "Why," replied West, "yon could njake your fortune hauling up town stakes " FISH STORY. In 1859 Henry Eeara, Col. Warner, Wm. Silence, Ziher Millage and Rev. Alunhall dragged Blyburg lake M-ith a seine and on the first haul caught enough tish to till three w-agon beds level full. This is a true iisli Btory. LOCATING A ROAD It wa^ away hack in the '50's when A. H. Baker, ^^iuintl Gamble and John J. Trecy were county com- mirhioneis, and this august body used to sit upon high hcrchef, look as wise as sages, and locate a road in thu '•twinkling of an eje." It was sometiuT^ along in these Year.- tliat the road from St. Johns down along the 850 wakner's HisTCiKV OF DAKuTA cou>;'rv. 1)1 lift's came up tor consideration and l)ei'ore _yoii cuulil say "jack-rabbit" tiie Honorable county coininiosioners atrached tlieir immortHl names to the important docu- ment, vviiich runs somet-'iiing similar to this: "Commencing in the centre of St. Peters and Utli streets, nf St. .lolins; thence south along 14th street to the place where Gerald Dillon upset with a load of hay; thence south to the right bank of Elk Creek, in a bend where Jos. Brannan shot three ducks; thence south to foot of bluffs where Mike IJeacom got stuck in the mud with a load of sand; thence to a stake; thence south along section lines between sections 13 and 14. township 38, range 7 east, to one-fourth corner; thence south to Pigeon Creek to stake on right bank where there is a big bunch of grass; thence south to a line stone 18x14 inches, op- posite E. (-;. Lampson's house; thence south along the bluffs till you come to a cottonwood tree twenty inches in diameter, on right bank of creek where Col. Bates killed a crow; thence southeast along Wm. Silence's corn fleld till it strikes Ziber Millage's lower pig pen and rebounds a trifle to the east when in strikes the corner of Col. Baird's garden, where he used to throw all of his empty bottles; thence along the bluffs to C>maha Creek; (where Homer now stands) thence east across said creek to the spot where Thomas Smith camped; thence in a southeasterly direction up a long ridge back of Henry Beam's place, to a high point on the bluffs; (the identical bluff on which the Homer celebration floated its flag pole so many years afterward;) thence directly east down a sharp pitch and then whoop 'em up a rugged point to the southward; thence in a winding southeast direction up hill and down hill and then up hill and down hill again until your horses are about tugged out, when you come to a stake on I'latte River and Running Water military road, on bluff's south of Henry Pil- grim's house, from which a burr oak tree fifteen inches in di- ameter bears 8, 81; E, 1,- 87, and containing three notches on west. Surveyed October 21, 22 and 24, A. D., 1859, by M. D. Jeffers, surveyor. Chainmen, Wm. Nixon, A. Prichard. James W. Viutuk, County Clerk. This road is now known as the road from Jackson STORIES OF YE OLDKN TIMES. 351 to Homer ria Col. Baird's and from Homer it run along the liigli ridge of tlie bluffs back of Henry Ream"s, Thoe. Ashford s and Capt. O'Connor's farms, to military road, on bhiflf's sontli of the old Col Warner place. The bunch of gi-ass. stumps, bottles, trees, corn fields and pig pens have long since passed away but the road is "still there." (5E0RGE L. BOALS, JR., TELLS A STORY. It was the 22nd day of April, 1856, when George L. BohIs, jr., plodded along through the mnd and brush irom tlie river to Dakota City, with his parents. They leaciied Dakota City and to their astonishment it con- tained all of one solitary house — and that was a bach- elor's hall with Ben. F. Chambers, John McQuilkin and Win. Adair as chief cooks. Here they remained that night and George had always been used to a good warm bed, "but" he says, "their beds consisted of poles laid around a fire and back of this was thrown on the ground some slough grass." Tlie next morning he was awakened by tlie clash of frying pans, etc., and for the first time in his life he saw men doing the cooking, lie started with his parents for his Ducle George's claim, and when they got there a man was sitting by the fire drying his socks. As Mrs. Hannah J. Boals stepped into the log cabin the man was struck with terror and ran out of the house and disappeared in Boals' grove. She was the first white woman he had seen in tlie county, and in fact, the only woman in the north- ern part of the county at that time. That winter all the Boals' of Dakota county crowded into that log cab- in (they couldn't do it now), and one morning, after a cold and stormy night, tliey thought the king of day was a long time getting around with his light. Final- ly, they saw a ray of light coming through anail hole in the roof >ind on further examination it was disGOvered that the entire cabin was enveloped in a great mass of 352 Warner's history of Dakota county. snow. A liole was cut tliioiigh tlie roof and a man was sent out to dig a tiinr.e] tlirongli the skow to the door. This is one thing that George will never foi-^et. IIEKBY SHULL'S STORY. After the '-break up" in tlie spring following ihecolti and stormy winter ot '56 aud '57, all streams were flood- ed, including the Missouri liver, which bjoke ov°r the banks near old St. Jolins and rushed down along the bluffs. The Shull Brothers spent the winter on Fid- dlers creek, and hauled their pro\isions iiiost of the time on a hand sled from old Omadi. They lived on the old David Shull place. One spring morning Tlen- ry and Samuel Shull left their home to go to Oinadi for a load of lumber and provisions, and jiist as they had crossed the bridge over -'the lake," which stood somewhere in the vicinity of the fork of Elk and Pigeon creeks, it went down tlie stream, they narrowly escaping a watery grave. Samuel got on a log and recrossed the flooded stream, and retui'ued to help his friends G\er there. They at once commenced to build bi ats so as to be prepared to escape should the water continue to rise. In the mean tiuiC Henry, a l)oy of only fifteen years of age, proceeded on up Fiddlei's creek with his load. It was, indeed, a kmesome joui'ney foi' a young man. Tie had taken his bo(.)ts off while wading in tlie water to get across the creeks, and now they had shi-ank up so he could not get them oti again. Then he had to wade on through the snow and ice in liis stockini-' feet, when lie got to the north fork of Fiddlers creek, near the i'arm now owned by B. Gi'i'.iblc lie g. 857 slave owner come and claim him as a '-nigger"' wlioluul "recently" run away from liis home in Alabama was too traiispai'«nt a I'rand, and evidently an attempt to take a free negro into slavery. Following the interview men- tioned, jnpt how long I do not remember, my father. Uncle Bill (Win. Phillips) and myself were hanlin^' wood Irom the sand bar between Dakota City and Sei'- geants Blutf. On the return for the last load in tiie afternoon father told me that Uncle Bill and himself would go after that load and I should have the "ehores" done up. While on the bar, Dr.Crockwell and a stranger came up to them. Dr. Crockwell asked the stranger if that was the "]S'igger." He said it was. Then Dv. Crockwe!', as constable, took out a warrant and read it. describing Uncle Bill perfectly, claiming him as a run- away and arrested him. My father objeced to the pro- ceedure, claiming him to be on Iowa soil and liis wai'- rant not good, being issued in JS'ebraska, etc., etc. Father gave Uncle Bill assurance that our people would be over and bring him safely away. Father ran hi^ team home. Men were dispatched in all directions. and in a short time about lUO men with guns and revolvers were on their way to Dakota City. Meanwhile the news had gone out over there and by the time oui' people readied the Bates' house, crowds had congregated from that side as indignant as our folks. Speeches were made, etc. Dr. Crockwell representing the majesty of the law, claimed his prisoner must have trial etc. Cries were made for the man from Alabama; but he, one of the citizen?, had taken off his false whiskers and was mingling with tlie crowd. Violence would have been done him could he have been found. Several deputy constables were guarding Uncle Bill upstairs in the Bates' house. The demand for Uncle Bill being re- fused, a I'ush was made for the stairs and in a few mo- ments men appeared with Uncle Bill and he was seized and borne on the shoulders of iiis friends to the hotel in ■ibS WAENEe's HISTOKi' OF DAKOTA COTIKTV. Sergeants Blnff, where amid rejeiciug lie was tlie hero of the hour, and a mighty happy negi'O. The paper in Dakota City came out in glaring headlines and devoted a great deal of space and hundreds of copies were sent all over the north. The JS'ew York Tribune copied witli copious comments as did other papers. The feeling was so strong that the inside facts of the sclieine were not known for years. The man from "Alabama" was a young man in Dakota City. He went to Omaha, doned false beared, put up and registered from Alabama; told he was looking for a valuable runaway "•Nigger," gave the description of Unele Bill, and was told that such a negro was in Sergeants Bluff. He then got out his warrant and started for Sergeants Bluff.'' THAT SNOW BALI. In early times Gerald Dillon was the Jackson f^chool teacher, and on one occasion he severely chastis- ed William Maun, who is living at Lyons, Nebraskji. Mr. Mann, like all the boys, was full of mischief, i )i those days, but he did not think he was exactly en- titled to a flogging, so after the close of school, he "laid'' for Gerald Dillon with a large icy snow ball, and as he came along, let him have it right on the side of the head. Mr. 1)11 Ion dropped to the ground and after "coming to" rose to his feet and gazed around to see who threw the ball. But he never found out and he is wandering to this day "who in thunder threw that snow ball?" CRADLE STORY. A certain prominent gentleman, who lived in Da- kota City in pioneer times, and who afterwards became a state officer, came home one night "full" as usual. His wife had left the cradle in front of the door and of STORIES OF YE OI.DKN TIMES. 35'.* coiirte lie stuiiiLled over it, and when he got up he .started right buck the opposite way, (just like a drunk man) and went over the cradle again. He kept this up until he had tumbled over the cradle four times, when he lit a match, and exclaimed to his better halt": "wife, what in the world are you doing with all these cradles in the house? 1 have tumbled over four of them and here is another one of them rigiit in front of nie!" KNITTING NEEDLE STORY. A number of years ago one of Jackson's leading ligiits had occasion to visit Dakota City, and his wife told him to be sure to get some knitting needles — "and not to forget it." Tlie first thing he did when he got to Dakota City was to '•till up'' on whiskey, and every time through the day. when he would sober up a little he would remember liis wife's order, not to forget the needles, and would call at one of the stores and buy a supply of knitting needles, until he had all his pockets full of packages of needles. Thus loaded down he went home, to astonish his wife with several hundred knitting needles. CABBAGE AND STAKCH. Years ago tlieie was a prominent politician living in the south-eastern part of Dakota City, and one time his wife told him that she was going to have cabbage I'm- dinner, as he was very fond of it. Well, long be- fore 12 o'clock Inid arrived he was so drunk lie could not go home tor dinner. He sobered up sometime HH.IS wire stretcher was in- j,jy vented by Col. J. F. War- ^5 ner, and patented October 2, 1888. A. large number of them have been finished up, at Dakota City under the management of Frank Ajres. In this tool there is a perfect stretcher, staple ex- tractor, and bar to rnn spools of wire off on; also, a good tamp- ing stick. There is no wear to this tool. It will out last a gen- eration. It draws the wire around corner posts just where it is wanted. A man can stretch enough more wii-e in a day with tliis than any other stretcher in u-^e to pay the cost of it. In fact the labor of stretching wire is nothing with this implement. This invention is the result of actual work in the field and the uri.sarisfactory use of various oth- er stretchers. J. F. Warner also invented and received a patent for a port- able fence, but on accountof high winds in this section it was not a success here. IMVENTIONS AND PATENTS. 36H Admn Wenzel invented a corn planter, the picture of which will be seen on another page. It is said to be a tii-st-class invention and he has already been offered a large snm of money for it. Had Mr. Wenzel beer a man of capital he could have handled his patent to better advantage. As he is comparatively a poor man it has been slow work for him to introduce it to the •public sufficiently to create a demand for the planter. Shmnel Shull received a patent in 1887 for a '-Self Car Cmiplei-,'' which is said to be one of the best in use. . Luzerne King, son of Thomas J. King, of South Sioux City, on January 17, 1893 received a patent for a "Cutting Machine for Mowers and Reapers." This is a radically new and superior device. It is well known that sickle sections are usually riveted to the sickle bar permanently, and this fact makes the grinding a task of great labor and uncertainty, requiring considerable care and skill. Should a section be broken by accident, the rivets must be removed by a blacksmith. In the present case, no riveting whatever is required, and the entire series of sections can be removed by the simple removal of some nuts and a bar. The sickle bar is formed with a vertical front lip, cut out at intervals correspoiidiiig to the sections. Each section is formed with side recesses at a point between the shank and the cutting edges, making somewhat a dart shape. In plac- ing these sections, therefore, the recesses engage the vertical projections of the bar, and it only remains to lay on the top bar and bolt it down flat on the shanks to" secure the sections. By this arrangement each sec- tion can be removed and- separately ground, insuring a better edge at far less trouble and time. This is an eminently practical invention that presents decided ad- vantages. CD George Maxwell invented amowingmachine,buthe J 64 WARNER'S HISTOKY OF DAKOTA COTNTY. did not have tfie means to get it properly before the people and thus far he has not realized anything from it, although mechanics claim it is a first class machine. There have been numerous other inventions by Da- kota county people, but we have been unable to learn enough facts in regard to them to give them further notice. CHAPTER XXI. Miscellaneous— CouKTY Seat Fight— ELEt-nox OF 1S93. Etc. COIN'IY SEAT FKillT. Dui'ing tlie snininer of 1891 a petition wus ciicii- lated asldiip tlial an election he called to vote nr)on the (jiicstioii of the removal of the county seat IVoin Dakdta City. After receiving- the required number of signeis the election was called and held on September 10, 18'Jl. The vote on the question stood as follouv--: Total vote 1202. Sonth Sionx City, 600; Dakota City 250; Ja",kson. 327; Hnl)bard, 21; Homer 4. The \'ote exhibited iii-a most favorable manner, Sanrli Sionx City's strength in tlie fight, but it was necessiii-v for her to receive tliree-fiflhs of all the votes cast, and accordiny to law another election was called. The second election was held on the IStli day of October ol' tlie same year, with the following result. Total vote 1220: South Sioux City^ 822;' Dakota City, Sif^. This vote was sufficient to declare South Sioux Citv the county seat, but pi'evious to this the Dakota ('its- people commenced a suit in the district court attaclcino- the validity of the original petition on which the election was called. As soon as it was made known that Soutii Sioux City had the requisite number of votes, an injunction was secured restraining the i-e- moval of the records durino- the pendency of the suit. On December 2, Judge Norris rendered his decision sustainiiii:; the validity of the petition But Dakota City was desperate jn hei- efforts to retain SQij WAKNKli's HISTORY OF DAKOTA COUNTY. the seat of govei'iiinent and as soon as Judge ]S' orris' decision was rendered tliey had secured a resti-aining order from tlie supreme court and the I'ecords remained at Dakota City. On the 17th of March, 1892, the su- pieme court delierved a decision, reversing the decision of tlie district court on the validity of tiie county sent, petition. In the mean tiiue Soutii Sioux City jjad kept faith and delivered every promise in the fight. A handsome new court house had been constructed at a cost of $18,000, whicli, but for Ihc I'uliiig of a court of last resort, would now be the property of the county, free of any cost to the tax pavers outside of South Sioux City. This ended the fight. During the latter part of 1892 another petition wns ciiculated, but for prudent reasons it was never presented for action. GENERAL ELECTION OF 1803. At the general election held in Dakota county, on Tuesday, November 7, 1893, the following ciuinty officers wei'e elected: Frank Davey, treasurer; D. CJ. [leftej-nan, Judge; T. V. Braniian, clerk; W. K. Kelley, slierif!'; J. G. Haupt, Superintendent; 15. F. Sawyer, coroner; Alex Abell, surveyor. All of the above being democrats, except Haupt and Abell, repub- licans. Towniihip officers were elected as follows; Covington township No. 1--Wm. Lopp supervisor; Geo. E. Bidwell, assessor; Thomas J. King, Justice of the Feace; Samuel Jenkins, constable; E. Stamni treasurer; Oscar March, clerk. St. Johns township iSfo. 2 — M. M. Boyle, assessor; Sandy McDonald, Justice cf the Feace; M. Iv Ken- nelly, constable. Summit township No 3 — James Eush asses.^or John Dennison, Justice of the Feace; J. Huggan. treasurer; W. W. Sjieahiin, clerk. Dakota township No. 4 — W. P. Rathburn, treas- COUNTY ELECTION OF 1893. B67 urer; John T. Spencer, clerk; S. A. Ileikes, assessor; Jolin Joyce, Justice of tlie Peace. Hubbard township No. 5 — Daniel Hartnett, su- pervisor; Thomas Duggan, assessor; John Roouey. Justice of the Peace; Steve Whittecar, constable; T. M. Cnllen, treasurer; T. S. Jones, clerk. Pigeon Creek township No. 6 — Jesse Williams, treasurer; Phiio McAfee, clerk: Geo. Barnes, asses- sor; Peter Nelson. Justice of the Peace; J. F. Con- nor, constable, Omadi tosvnsliip No. 7 — Geo. W". iiockwell, su- pervisor; J. P. Rockwell, assessor; M. S. Mansfield and Seth Barnes, Justices of the Peace; B. McKinley, constable; Thomas Ashford, Jr., clerk; J. D. Welt- er, treasurer. Emerson township No. 8 — Michael Schindler, assessor; Nelson Feauto, Justice of the Peace; R. E. Kuhn, constable; Fred Biede, clerk; Charles Bor- itwskj treasurer. CHAPTER XXII. Additional Biographical Sketches. KuGKNK 13. WiLBDii is the eldest son of our piimeer, E. L. Wilbur. Wa-^ l)orii August 15, 185S in CnvinjTtiiii precinct, in tliis county. Heiaii a-.rendiiic/ school ill 18(16 in a log' house kii •\mi hs the Miskey building which stood upon the biinks of tlie ri'.ci-. tanijht oy Mrs. James Ogg. Moved \virli pai'ents to a I'ai-ni one niiie southeast of Covitigron in the fall of ISTy which is the present town site of South Sioux City. In the winter of 1878, taught his first term of .'-■(•IhioI in the Island district No. 20. Graduate! !it tin' Sioux City ITiiifh Sclionl in spring of 187S. Marrii d to Miss Mary E. Savidge at Covington, Nehi'Hsl a, Sppteuilier iSth, 1878, by Judge A. D.' Cole. Movtd to his fatiier's farm in Dakota Territory. tixe miles wo-t of Sioux City, March 1+, 1879. Here he had crops in promising condition wheri tiie L!,Ta-s'iopp:!rs de-^troNcd all. Moved back to Dakota County, July 2.')th an located on a piece of unimproved land whicdi he liad previously purchased, adjoining his father's farm on the south, where lie built a residence. Tanglit school iti the summer of 1880 in his home district. Taught his last term of school in the winter of 1884. Spring o\' 1884 s(dd his farm to C. C. Orr for |30 per acre and moved to the Island and opened up a stock faim. Moved to Covington. March 19, 1885. Elected county judge jNovember 3,1885. by '69 major! ty, took charge of otKce January 7, 1880, and on tlie 27tii day of August Sold the town site of South SiouxCity to John R[. Moiin EUGENE B. WILBUR. ADDITIONAL BIOGRAPHICAL SKEICHES. '411 and afterwards sold $15,000 worth of property in tjjat vicinity. That fall he built a residence in Dakota City. In 1887 sold 1105,912.50 worth of pioperty and built a brick block and two frame buildings at South Sioux City. Rt-e'ected for County Judge Noveiuber 8, 1887, defeating A. C. Abbott," of Pendtr, by 13'J majority. Was secretary of tlie"Covington, South Sioux- City and Electric Eailway Co.," which was organized in i888 and elected president ol' same the following year. In partnership with his biofbej-, D. C, opened up a harness shop at Dakota City, in 1888. In Febrnary of the same year bought The Aigus at Da kota City, afterwaids moved to South Sioux City. JVJr. Wilbur is a young man of inoie than ordinary energy and push. Although not cnnfronted with as tiyiiig obstacles as those which the older pioneers met and overcame, he has had tii>ils and privations in the shape of grasshoppers, loss of stock, etc., through all of which he has suivived and won for himself the position which he now occupies. He has live children, Eugene Clinton, Emma llrac^-, Ralph Raymond, Lee L., Mor- ton C. He was admitted to tiie bar March 11, 1891 Caleb Monroe Antrim was born in Butler county Ohio, March 6, lfel9. Was married to Miss Hannaii Jefiery at Quincy, Illirmis, Deciember 5, 1861. He arrived in JJiikota county, with his family, March 10, 1872, where he has since resided. In speaking of his journey to Nebraska he said: "As I came to the bank of the Missouri river, the erossinu; was dangerous, and I employed boys enough to take my things across on hand-sleds. My mother was witii me, and she being very old I took hold of iier and told her to be careful, and started down the bank; and as I took the first step ray foot slipped and I fell and my mother on top of me but no one was hurt, but we rolled clear down the bank. My mother, Martha .\ntrim, died October 15, 1880, at the age of 100 years, 6 months, and 15 days." 372 waener's history oi' Dakota county. He liiis five children living, Charles Henry, Oaleh Jeffery, Edward Thomas, Emma Etta and Elizabeth Ann. His son Wilbur is dead. Postoffice, Homer. Agustus C. Dodge was horn in Cedai- county, Iowa, March 25. 1851 and came to Dakota county. September 15, 1878, fettling on the t'firiTi now owned by Benjamin Bridenbaugh. Afterwtirds moved to a farm south-east of Hubbard where he lived at the time of his death, May 7, 1888. He was married to Laura Seeley at Vinton', Iowa, July 26. 1876. Ue left three children. William, Leroy and Charles I-avvrence. His mother, vvho is a sister of William Taylor, and his brother, William Dodge, are living at Ponea. EuGKNE L. WiLBUK fouiid Ilis way to Dakutu coun- ty August 25, 1856, landing in Covington. By his fair and upright dealings with his fellowmen be has won an honored name in the hearts of Dakota connty peo- ple. It is not necessary to give a sketcli of his life here as it will be found elsewliere in different parts of this book. CONCLUSION. Our work is tinislied. The History of Dakota county is completed, on which we have spent so ninny tedious bonis in digging up, as it were, and un- earthing dim and dormant history of the dead past. Pioneers, preserve this book, that coming generations may profit by and learn to revere the memory of your grand and heroic struggle and final victory in cimquer- ing these once wild primeval lauds, opening the way !or all the wealth and prosperity which abounds e\-erywliere in Dakota County. Cornell University Library F 672D2 W28 Warner's history of Dakota County, Nebra olin 3 1924 028 874 141