Submitted by Ginny Sommarstrom

 

ST. CLAIR COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Thursday, May 23, 1935
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Wife and mother, Mrs. James Keeton, who passed away five years ago Wednesday, May 23, 1930.
Born May 14 to Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Harper, a fine baby girl weighing 7½ pounds. She has been named Doris Kathleen and has dark hair and blue eyes...mother is Miss Geneva Murray, a former popular teacher of St. Clair county.

Thursday, May 30, 1935
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Catherine Alexander Howerton, born near Fayetteville, Ill., June 3, 1855 and died at her home near Vista, May 25, 1935, age 79 years, 11 months and 23 days. Children Winnie Todd, Vista; Rosa Brinegar of Salem, Neb.; L. A. Howerton of Lowry City, Mo; Nellie Fowler of Dells, WA; Bertha Tuck of Bristo, OK; Ida Holiday of Vista; Pearl Lewis of Gerster, Mo; Ruben Howerton, who died in 1913; husband and father passed away Aug 20, 1927.

Thursday, June 6, 1935
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Clarence (Buster) Hartley was in Appleton City, Monday and Wednesday completing arrangements to direct the town band there for the weekly concerts this summer. They will practice each Monday and give concerts each Wednesday night. The concerts will begin next week, Mr. Hartley stated.

Thursday, June 13, 1935
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J. H. Mason. John Harden Mason, son of Benjamin and Marth Mason, was born in Green co., Ill., Oct 6, 1853 and passed away at his home in Collins June 4, 1935, after a lingering illness of six months. He was left an orphan when quite young, but was reared to manhood in the family of John Sink in Illinois. He came to Missouri with this family in 1874. He was united in marriage to Julia Shelton, March 18, 1875. To this union four children were born, three of whom survive, viz -- Mrs. Belle Cook, B. A. Mason and J. W. Mason, all of Collins. Another son, Charley Mason, passed away in 1920. He is also survived by his companion, five grand-children and nine great grand-children.
When Collins became a town his home was the second to be constructed, and he has lived in this home more than 49 years. He was converted in a meeting held at Vine Hill school house, conducted by Rev. Shackleford and Rev. Murphy. He united with Coon Creek Church which was then located west of town and was baptized by Rev. Freeman. He was a charter member of the Collins Baptist church, having come from Coon Creek church by letter and was appointed on a committee to effect a consolidation of Coon Creek Church and Collins Baptist Church. The consolidation was effected and the name Coon Creek Baptist Church was adopted. He helped build the first church in Collins, and also assisted in the construction of the present building. He was the faithful care-taker of church forty years.
His home radiated hospitality and pastors for many years made it their home as they came to their appointments from time to time. He will be sadly missed, not only by his loved ones, but by his church and by the community, for he was a friend of all.
Funeral services were conducted Wednesday in the church he loved and served by Rev. J. F. Sherman, a former pastor, who paid tribute to the life of this grand man from Job 5:26--"'Thou shall come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in, in his season."' Friends, loved ones and members of the church provided a profusion of flowers in tribute to this worthy character. The remains were laid to rest in the Holsapple Cemetery. Services were under direction of Firestone Funeral Service.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 1935
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[This obituary was incorrectly labeled; should be Charles R. CRITHFIELD, as noted in the following week's paper.]
Charles R. Critchfield was born near Richmond, Nov. 27, 1875. He passed away at Springfield, Nov. 27, 1935 on his 60th birthday. His parents were Elizabeth and Ransom Critchfield. They were devoutly religious people whose influence led him to accept his Savior early in life. He was converted and joined the Methodist church in 1890.
He was married to Miss Effie Burrow Jan. 7, 1897. To this union were born 6 children; two died in infancy. One daughter, Norma, passed away Aug. 23, 1926. There remains to mourn his loss his wife, one son Merk of the home address, and two daughters, Reba Bowser of Kansas City and Ruth Watson [Wasson?] of Rogers, Ark., one granddaughter, Martha June Bowser, and a grandson, Marvin Gunter of the home, a sister, Mrs. Lydia Swanson of Springfield, and a host of other relatives and good friends.
His kindly manner and cheerful disposition made many friends. He was an unusually kind husband and father. He lived an unselfish life, always glad to help others.
The remains were laid to rest in the Yeater cemetery. O. S. had charge of the burial. Bro. Earnhart delivered an inspiring message to the bereaved family. Victor Hemphill, C. H. Duvall, Charles Johnson, Wilson Mills, Burleigh Cole and Charley Cooper acted as pallbearers. The relatives take this opportunity to express their sincere appreciation to the ones who assisted them in their bereavement.

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VISTA: Margaret Cordray of Springfield spent Thanksgiving with her mother, Mrs. Bert Whiting.

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L&P: Ross B. Fields spent Thanksgiving day in Clinton with his mother, Mrs. Bell Fields and Mr. and Mrs. Hubert DeLee.

Thursday, Dec. 12, 1935
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COLLINS: Johnnie Allen, teacher at the Jackson school, was married during the holidays to Miss Lorene Atchley. She is teaching at Pittsburg, Kans., and will finish the term.

Lewis Baldwin and family ate Thanksgiving dinner with his sister, Mrs. Siebert Weaver and family in Benton county.

Chas. Crithfield, who died last week at the home of his sister, Mrs. Lyda Swanson, in Springfield, was a former resident of Collins. His father owned a dry good store, occupying the building on the corner where the Wilson and Frank store now stands, and he built the residence now owned by Lowry Belisle. Mys Swanson is the only one living of the seven brothers and sisters who were in the home here. Chas. Crithfield had lived in the Osceola community for several years. Mr. and Mrs. Bratcher attended the funeral which was held Friday, Nov. 29 and burial was in the Yeater cemetery.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 1935
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Mrs. W. O. Hill Mrs. Edith Wilson Hill, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jas. R. Wilson, was born June 23, 1870 near Quincy, Mo., and departed this life on the same farm on which she was born December 21, 1935, at the age of sixty-five years, five months and twenty-eight days. She was married on March 19, 1890 to W. O. Hill of Osceola where Mr. Hill was in business. She united with the Christian church in her early girlhood days. She was a very faithful member and devoted much of her time to church activities.
Those left to mourn her death are her husband, father, six brothers and three sisters. The brothers are: Tom Wilson, of Quincy, Mo.; Albert Wilson of Fairfield; Charlie Wilson of Appleton City; Walter Wilson, of Tacoma, Wash.; Ira Wilson, California; Warner Wilson, Quincy. The sisters are: Mrs. B. E. Lord of Archie, Mo.; Mrs. Claude Clark, Kansas City, Kans.; Mrs. Homer H. Stewart of Osceola; her mother and one sister, Mrs. Elmer McClain of Garden City, having preceded her in death.
Funeral services for Mrs. Hill were conducted at 11 o'clock Monday morning by the Rev. A. T. Mahaney at the Osceola Christian church. Interment was in the Wilson-Gatog cemetery near Quincy. The crowded church and beautiful flowers bespoke the love and esteem of Mrs. Hill's many friends.

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Charles Crithfield. Charles Crithfield, who enjoyed a hearty popularity with virtually every man, woman and child in this territory, was sixty years old the day he died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Lida Swanson of Springfield.
He had been ill of heart disease for several months but did not consider his ailment of a serious nature until the last five weeks before he passed away. At an early age, he won the nickname of "'Doc,"' due to the fact that he could cure any animal on the farm (which was his birthplace) of almost any disease with which it became afflicted. In later years, he followed that profession, being well known as a veterinarian as well as a painter and paperhanger. He joined the Methodist church early in life.
His popularity was universal with everyone who knew him. He had no enemies. He had a smile ready for every occasion and a word of encouragement for every person afflicted with ill fortune. His deep and abiding love for his sister was one of outstanding phases of his life.
On January 7, 1897, he married Effie Burrow and reared a family which would be considered a valuable addition to any community. He was adored in his family circle because he always exercised the same kindness and care for his family that he did for his legion of friends.
In his death, Osceola and the surrounding territory has suffered an irremediable loss and the sympathy of all the people goes out to the members of his family.
--Ruel Swanson, Springfield

Thursday, Jan. 2, 1936
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mention of Nord Woolery dies...Tuesday....hope for obit to publish

Thursday, April 9, 1936
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HOGLES CREEK: "'Uncle John Allen, aged pioneer of the Quincy section, died last week. His body will be held for burial until the arrival of his daughter, the middle of this week."'

Thursday, April 16, 1936
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Sarah Elvina Wright. Sarah Elvina Culbertson, the youngest child of Isaac and Susannah Culbertson, was born near the present site of Collins, September 28, 1853 and passed away at her home in Collins, April 8, 1936, aged 82 years, six months and ten days.
She was left an orphan at an early age and was taken into the home of her sister, Mrs. Leah Thompson, where she grew to womanhood. She was the last surviving member in a family of nine children.
She was united in marriage June 13, 1869, with William H. Wright. The this union, five children were born, two of whom survive, Mrs. Cora Butler, Humansville and Mrs. Stella Hedrick of Collins. Another daughter, Beulah, passed away in infancy and the two sons, Reuben and Roy in recent years. Her companion passed away September 11, 1932.
She is also survived by seven grandchildren, viz., Gordon Butler, Mrs. Zola Reynolds, Mrs. Neta Smith, Mrs. Irene Smith, Vincent Wright, Miss R. Neil [Nell?] Wright and Winfred Hedrick, and one grand grandchild, Miss Madell Smith.
She was saved with the original Coon Creek Baptist church December 29, 1867. The place of meeting at that time was in the log church located northwest of town. She has held continuous membership in this church nearly 69 years and in point of age and membership was perhaps its oldest member. She has been active in the development of the church for more than a half a century.
For some years in her earlier womanhood she was a conscientious teacher in the Sunday school and promoted all the activities of her church. She was regular in attendance to all its services so long as her health permitted. Not only was she faithful but she was loyal to all the teachings of the church.
For years her home was a haven of rest for pastors as they sojourned here from time to time. Not only was she a consecrated Christian but was an ideal mother, wife and friend and her home ever radiated welcome and hospitality in all who entered its door.
She will be greatly missed in the home, the church, and the community. Truly a Christian woman has gone to her reward.
The funeral services were conducted at the Baptist church Friday, April 10 at 2 p. m., by Rev. J. F. Sherman of Walnut Grove, a former pastor. He was assisted in this service by the pastor of the church, Rev. Rosecrans. Rev. Sherman chose as his theme Christian Motherhood and brought a most comforting message to the bereaved ones.
The church was beautifully arranged with pot plants and cut flowers.
The song service was rendered by a male quartet, Lester Birdsong, Omer Pruitt, E. R. Simms and Rev. Rosecrans. A solo, "'That Wonderful Mother of Mine,"' was sung by a grandson, Vincent Wright, and obeying a request made by the deceased shortly before her passing a duet was sung by C. R. Simms and Lester Birdsong entitled "'There is a Spot, to Me Most Dear."'
The remains were laid to rest in the Robinson cemetery beside her companion.
Card of Thanks. We wish to express our sincere appreciation to friends and neighbors, who assisted us in caring for our loved one during her illness, also our thanks for the beautiful floral tributes. -- Mrs. Cora Butler, Mrs. Stella Hedrick, Mrs. Myrtle Wright, Mrs. Electa Wright.

Thursday, October 3, 1936
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William James Allen. William James Allen, son of William D. and Exonery D. Allen, was born March 26, 1866 near Sedalia, and departed this life Sept. 23, 1935 [N.B.: since paper in 1936, suspect this is a typo.] at his home near Rainey, aged 69 years and six months. He was united in marriage to Almeda Culbertson June 16, 1902, and to this union two daughters were born, Iva E. Langdon of Collins and Eva Ardella Allen, who died in infancy. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters and brothers. Only one sister survives and she lives in Norman, Okla. He leaves to mourn his departure, a wife, one daughter, five grandchildren, one sister and a host of relatives and friends.
He has been in poor health since he fractured his hip July 12, 1934. He never fully recovered from the accident. He was saved in meeting conducted by Bro. Bennett at Flat Rock church, October, 1921 and continued in faith until death.
His funeral was preached at the Valley church near Rainey by Sister Bomershine at Lowry City. He made his own funeral arrangements, selected his songs and his preacher. [poem]
Card of Thanks. We want to thank everyone who so faithfully helped in his sickness and death, also for the beautiful flowers. His wife, Almeda Allen; daughter, Iva E. Langdon and grandchildren and sister, M. E. Tucker.

Thursday, Nov. 5, 1936
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HOGLES CREEK: "'The Hogles Creek community feels a loss at the recent death of Uncle Jim Wilson. A large crowd attended his funeral Saturday at Quincy. His old home on Hogles Creek, where he raised his large family, knows him no more. His place in the community cannot be filled. Old times are fast leaving for the unknown land of Sweet Promise. Uncle Jim was weary; beckoning hands called him where enfeebled bodies find rest. The writer has prized his friendship a lifetime. We extend sympathy to his family."'

Thursday, Nov. 12, 1936
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James R. Wilson. James Richard Wilson was born in Eddysville, Ky., Septmber 11, 1844, and passed away on the 29th day of October, 1936 at 5:50 p. m. at the home of his youngest daughter, Mrs. Homer Stewart of Osceola, Mo.
While he was yet a tiny child his parents came to Missouri and the remainder of his life was spent in the vicinity of Quincy, Mo. He was married to Eliza Thomas, January 3, 1867, and to this union were born eleven children, nine living at present and two preceding him in death, Eahel McClain and Edith Hill. Those living are: Tom Wilson, Quincy; Elbert Wilson, Fairfield; Charlie Wilson, Appleton City; Walt Wilson, Tacoma, Wash.; Stella Lord, Archie; Ira Wilson, Redlands, Calif.; Warner Wilson, Quincy; Nelle Clark of Kansas City; Mabel Stewart of Osceola. He also leaves 25 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
In the same year as his marriage he united with the Christian church at Quincy, to which he remained a faithful member; he also became a member of the Masonic lodge at Wheatland in the same year. His ideals were of the highest and he always fought for the things that were right and uplifting, likewise fighting against those things which were wrong and destructive to human life.
"'Uncle Jim,"' as he was commonly called, will be greatly missed. He was a well known figure not only in his own but in surrounding counties, and he leaves a host of friends to mourn his passing. Uncle Jim took great pride in his belief that he was the oldest citizen in Hickory county and had resided in Hickory county longer than any other citizen. He was also proud of the fact that he remained so active and able to ride his horse. [rest chopped off]

Thursday, Nov. 26, 1936
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Martha E. Vestal. Martha Ellen Vestal was born seven miles east of Pleasant Hill in Cass County, September 29, 1859 and passed away on the fifteenth day of November at one o'clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Porter Johnson.
She married J. M. Cary, Mar. 3, 1875 and to this union were born six children, four living at present, and two preceding her in death, Walter, age sixteen years, and one dying in infancy. Those living are a dear companion, Mrs. Will Lyons of Overbrook, Kans.; Alec, Heavener, Okla., and Robert, of Hamilton, Kans., and Mrs. Porter Johnson of the home; one brother, Noah Vestal, address unknown; one sister, Nettie Jackson of Labette, Kans. She also leaves twenty grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild and a host of other relatives and friends.
She united with the M. E. Episcopal Church when quite young. She always did what she thought was right and was greatly loved by all who knew her.
Another life has ebbed out on the sea of time. Another crown at Jesus' feet. A life of 77 years, one month and sixteen days has ended and had come to the end of a long, weary travel. She has been in poor health for several years but has been bedfast for about six weeks. Wednesday she took much worse and lived only a few days. She is happy now with loved ones over there. [poem]
Flower girls were Mrs. Buddie Lattimer, Mrs. Lloyd Todd, Mrs. Delmer Chew, Mrs. J. M. Johnson, Mrs. Perry Johnson, Mrs. Emery Shelton and Nadine Johnson. Pallbearers were: Emery Shelton, Kenneth Johnson, Buddie Lattimer, Perry Johnson, Delmer Chew and Lloyd Todd. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Thomas Crance.

Thursday, Dec. 3, 1936
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Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Feaster left Thursday for Los Angeles, Calif., where they plan to make their home.

Thursday, May 6, 1937
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COON CREEK: Mrs. Malla Eads spent Saturday night with her sister, Mrs. Estella Minks, in the Jackson community.

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VISTA: Miss Olive June Coffey returned home Monday from Flemington and was accompanied by her cousin, Miss Mitshielene Vaughn for a few days visit.

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HOGLES CREEK: John H. Breshears, near Bentonville, received a telegram Saturday morning from Idaho that his son, Olan, had died suddenly. No particulars were given. The family was much shocked as they had just recently received a long letter from him full of cheer and pep and plans. Olan was a fine your fellow of twenty-five. He grew up just across Hogles creek and has many friends here who sorrow with the family.

Thursday, May 13, 1937
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VISTA: Mrs. E. P. Coffey went to Flemington Sunday to attend a Mother's Day program.

Thursday, May 20, 1937
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COLLINS: John (Book) Orr, of Springfield has been visiting in the Jas. Hire home, and attended Old Folks Day service. His exact age is not recalled just now, but think it is 86. He and his daughter, Ollie, have recently returned from a trip to California.

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PERSONALS AND LOCALS: Mr. and Mrs. C. Roy Fields, Mrs. Eleanor Bell and Mrs. Carl Metz spent Friday evening in Marshall, where they attended the May Fete of Missouri Valley College, where Charles Roy Jr. and Miss Eleanor Bell Fields are students.
W. J. Allen not listed as attending the annual Old Folk's Day at Collins from Osceola

Thursday, May 27, 1937
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Marriage Licenses: Cleo Glen Hemphill, 22-Weaubleau and Veda Fern Allen, 20-Weaubleau

FAMILY RE-UNION AND BIRTHDAY DINNER A family re-union was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. T. O. Daniel Sunday, when a group of relatives gathered to honor Mrs. Daniel's brother-in-law, H. H. Rogers, of Tulsa, Oklahoma on his birthday. The four sisters and two brothers of the Johnston family were together for the first time in many years. These were Mrs. W. T. Hurt, of Boonville, Mrs. T. O. Daniel, Mrs. J. C. Barnett, Mrs. H. H. Rogers, of Tulsa, Dr. A. S. Johnston of Wheatland and Dr. L. H. Johnston of Kansas City. A lovely buffet luncheon was served at noon to the guests.
The guests included Dr. and Mrs. L. H. Johnston of Kansas City, Dr. and Mrs. A. S. Johnston of Wheatland, Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Johnston and daughter of Springfield, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Rogers of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Johnson and daughter, Mrs. J. C. Barnett, Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Hurt and Mr. and Mrs. Will Henry and daughter, of Boonville.

Thursday, June 3, 1937
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PERSONAL and SOCIETY: Mr. and Mrs. Johnnie Allen of Clinton called Monday to see Lewis Baldwin, but he was not at home. He and family are visiting in Quincy.

Thursday, June 17, 1937
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VISTA: Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey and daughter, Miss Olive June, attended the funeral services for Mr. John Hutton Sunday afternoon at the Valley Christian church.

Thursday, June 24, 1937
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VISTA: Evan Lawler run the filling station for E. P. Coffey Sunday while he, wife and daughter went to Humansville to attend a family reunion, which is an annual affair.

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PERSONAL and LOCALS: Mrs. John Fields of Clinton spent the day Sunday in the home of her son, C. Roy Fields and Mr. Fields.

Thursday, July 1, 1937
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copied Civil War reminiscence
WISDOM ITEMS: Mrs. Crabtree went to Lowry City Tuesday to see her mother who was ill.
A War Story. By Uncle George Smith
I am 87 years old living in St. Clair County about 5 miles from Iconium, as I am getting pretty old I will tell you a story of my youth. When I was about 10 years of age I lived with my grandfather and mother on a farm near Clinton, Missouri. Those days were pretty bad on a boy of my age, because we had to keep on watch all the time for fear of bushwhackers or the militia. I well remember the day when we got word that 'Prices' army would be in Clinton in a few days. There was a large cotton wood tree in grandfather's peach orchard. Every day I would go out and climb to the top of the highest branch to see if the army had come. Things would look better every day. Of course I was a great fellow to go to town and we were about all getting over our scare, when I went to town one afternoon. Nothing happened that day, and the next day I told grandfather that I was going back to town again. When I got there every thing was pretty lively; soon home guards began running all over town. Every thing was full of pep. I said, "'Well, this is like a New World to me"', when a man said "'you'll be thinking a new world pretty soon, if you don't get out of here,"' so I started making tracks. I hadn't got very far till I thought it best to hide behind an old tree trunk. It wasn't such a safe place, but there is where I stayed until men had me surrounded. Some were shooting and others were using bayonets. Bullets were falling all around me. They would hit the tree trunk and bounce back, and I thought they would get me. The home guards would run by and say to me, "'you better stick to it you little devil or they will get you."' The Union men ran half of the army back. Another one came in. The Union reinforced and took them to Ft. Scott, Kansas. They fought there for 14 days and that was the end of it.

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STAR & WOLF BRANCH ITEMS: Mrs. Murl Woolery and two children of Carder are spending this week in the home of his parents Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Woolery.; Mrs. Murl Woolery and two children, Mrs. Enoch Williams and children, and Miss Marcene Woolery spent Wednesday with Mrs. Rufus Bledsoe.; Thursday, June the 25th, being Hoyle Williams 11th birthday, a few of his relatives and friends gathered in to surprise him late in the evening. Refreshments of cake, cookies, pickles and coffee were served to the following: His grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Woolery and aunt Marcene, Mrs. Murl Woolery and two children, Maxine and Raymond Wilson, Mary Helen, Jim, and Arthur Schnetzer, Helen and Eueline Shepherd, Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Williams and children. At a late hour all departed for their homes wishing Hoyle many more happy birthdays.

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P&L: Miss Chloeta Fentriss [sic] left Sunday for her home after spending two weeks in the home of her sister, Mrs. Roy Tevis and Mr. Tevis.; Mrs. Stella Barbour and daughter, Miss Ann of McAllen, Texas, are spending a week in the home of Mrs. Barbour's parents, Mr. and Mrs. C. G. DeLee, near Corbin. They were accompanied to Osceola by Mrs. L. A. DeLee and son, John, also of McAllen.

Thursday, July 22, 1937
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10th ANNUAL DeLOZIER REUNION
DeLozier Reunion, July 25, 1937, Gump Park, Weaubleau, Mo.
Names mentioned: W. E. Hawkins, Lucy Belle Parke, Asa M. Hartley (Teague, TX), Rev. Homer DeLozier (Lamar, MO), Mrs. Jewel Horstman (Kansas City), Mrs. W. S. Cross (Springfield), Bernie John, Mae DeLozier (Chelsea, OK), Bernita Park (Weaubleau), Wilma Parke, Pat DeLozier (Chelsea, OK), Mary Lee John, Mrs. Rose Hart (Lebanon, MO), May DeLozier and Lillie Swicegood (Weaubleau).
The reunion this year will be held on the exact date of the birth of the late Jane DeLozier (July 25, 1828). All DeLoziers are urged to come, bring their families and friends. Come for the morning services. We shall all be glad to hear Rev. Homer DeLozier preach. Wallace DeLozier, Pres., Norma Bernard, Sec'y

N. L. NOWELL DIES. Word was received this morning that N. L. Nowell, formerly of Quincy, Missouri, and well known by a host of friends throughout St. Clair County died suddenly at a hospital in Los Angeles, California, Thursday, July 15th. Mr. Nowell was quite ill through the winter months after an operation in a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. He has not been well since that time. Mr. Nowell's residence was Gilbert, Arizona, and the details of his interment are not yet known.

ROSS W. MORTON. Very softly the summons came to a hospital room in Excelsior Springs on the Sabbath Day, July 11, 1937, and Ross Walker Morton passed into the Unknown. His life span measured 41 years, 3 months and 12 days. He was the youngest child of Charles E. and Ina Thornton Morton and was born at Cross Timbers, Missouri, March 19, 1896. He grew to young manhood, quiet, well-behaved, industrious. He was called to the service of his country in September, 1917. He received training at Fort Sill. He served in the 35th Field Artillery and was overseas a year. He returned home in May, 1919.
He was married to Emma Opal Stevens of Quincy, August 18, 1920. To this union were born 3 children, the oldest, a son, dying in infancy. He with his wife united with the Christian Church at Wheatland and was baptized Oct. 10, 1926. His life was an open book, the pages any might read.
He is survived by his wife and two children, Charlene, aged 4 and John Stanley, age 3, by his father and mother, one sister, Mrs. Minnie Lacy of Quincy and one brother, Thornton Morton of Wheatland. Many other relatives and friends sorrow at his death.
For the past three years he had been in failing health. He entered the Veterans' Hospital in Excelsior Springs this summer, June 24. The end came Sunday afternoon, July 11, 1937. ....
Funeral services were conducted at the Wheatland Christian Church, July 14th by Elder A. T. Mahaney. Mr. Luckey was undertaker in charge. Six young relatives of the family were flower girls: Mary Ruth Lacy, Wilma Kay McClelland, Mary Ina and Rebecca Morton, Marjorie and Ruth Morton. Pall bearers were Charles Vaughn, Perry Parks, Charley Green, Elmer Oeser, George Crawford and Alvin Jenkins.

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P&L: This community was grieved to hear of the death of the baby daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wilson. The baby was only nine months old and only sick a day and night. Cause of death was measles and pneumonia.

Thursday, August 5, 1937
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PENELOPE CAUTHON Penelope Dodson, daughter of Thomas Dodson and wife, was born in Tennessee, November 24, 1852 and departed this life August 1, 1937, being 84 years, 8 months, and 8 days old. Her parents moved to Missouri when she was 1 year old, and she has lived in and near Gerster since.
She was married to Mitchell Cauthon July 21, 1867. To this union was born 11 children, 8 sons and 3 daughters: James Cauthon, Kansas City, Kansas; William Cauthon, Pryor, Oklahoma; George Cauthon, Hitchita, Oklahoma; John Cauthon, Lowry City, Missouri; Bert Cauthon, St. Joseph, Missouri; Lee Cauthon, Grigston, Kansas; and Nola Fitch, Belton, Missouri. Four of the children have preceded their mother in death. Namely Zona Hutton, Woodie Cauthon, Roxy Sherwood, and Dee Cauthon.
She has been a widow for six years, and has made her home with her daughter, Nola Fitch. She did not suffer many days, and all that loving hands could do was done, but the Giver and Taker of life had bade the tired body rest. The remains were tenderly carried to Kings Prairie church where Rev. Frank Harden spoke words of comfort to the sorrowing ones. Many of the children who survive her were unable to come. The burial was in Kings Prairie cemetery, August 3, 1937.
She was converted early in life and joined the Baptist church at Gerster, Missouri, and lived a true Christian life thereafter. [poem]

FLORA JAMES STEPHENSON Flora Elizabeth James was born in West Virginia March 31, 1868, and departed this life July 24, 1937, at the age of 69 years. She had been a resident of Roscoe 34 years. She united with the Reorganized Latter Day Saints about 36 years ago to which she was a devoted member. She was united in marriage to Joseph N. Stephenson Dec. 18, 1884. To this union six children were born. Mary Inez preceded her in death 4 years ago. She leaves to mourn her loss Mrs. C. W. Carrier of Roscoe, Mo.; Mrs. Maud Ransom, Topeka, Kansas; Mrs. Armanda Frazier, Topeka, Kansas; Calvin Stephenson, St. Louis, Mo.; Robert Stephenson, Topeka, Kansas; also 15 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, two brothers, Ollie James of Bentonville, Missouri; Willie James of the State of Washington, one sister, Mrs. Etta Wardrip of Lewis, Iowa, and a host of other relatives and friends. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral services were conducted at the Christian church July 26 by the Rev. J. Deller of Taberville. Interment in the Roscoe cemetery.

Thursday, August 12, 1937
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MRS. THOMAS TUCKER DIES Funeral services for Mrs. T. E. Tucker, who died at a hospital in Ft. Scott, Kansas, Saturday morning, were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock in Osceola. The Rev. Mr. Konkel, of Gates City, Kansas, assisted by the Rev. W. S. Bayne, pastor of the church conducted the services. Interment was in the Kings Prairie cemetery.
Mrs. Homer Tucker received a call from Ft. Scott, Kansas about 10:30 o'clock Saturday morning stating that Mr. Tucker's mother, Mrs. T. E. Tucker, of the Dillon neighborhood, had just died at the hospital at Fort Scott. She underwent a major operation at the hospital Thursday morning.
Homer Tucker, accompanied by his brother, John, and Mrs. Tucker of Gerster, had left early Saturday morning for Ft. Scott, after receiving a call that their mother's condition had suddenly become critical. They failed to arrive, however, before she died.
Julia Johndrow was born to [line missing] drow, February 1, 1871, near Quincy, Missouri. She was converted at the age of 13. She was married to T. E. Tucker March 6, 1892. To this union were born six children: Linnie Baxter of Deepwater; Tobie of Ft. Scott, Kansas; Leona of Sanger, Texas; Johnnie of Gerster; and Homer of Osceola. Ora passed away at the age of 1 and one half years. She is survived by 3 grandchildren: Verdia Baxter of Kansas City; Peggy Jean Tucker of Gerster; and Maurice Monroe of Ft. Scott, Kansas; one brother, F. S. Johndrow of Weaubleau; 3 sisters: Fannie Neal of Booneville, Iowa; Mary Detty of Wilburton, Oklahoma; Parey Curnutt of Independence.
She departed this life at the Ft. Scott hospital, August 7. Her going was peaceful. After the operation she talked to her family and seemed to be recovering nicely, but the burden was too heavy...

Thursday, August 19, 1937
page 1:
ALLEN REUNION. The sixth annual Allen reunion will be held Sunday, September 6, at Bridgeview camp, one mile north of Osceola on highway 13. A large program, plenty of ice water, and a basket dinner at noon. --President.

page 5:
BAILEY REUNION. The Baileys had a family gathering and a big dinner Sunday, August 15, 1937, at the home of Bob Bailey near Quincy. The event was in honor of his brother, S. R. Bailey, and wife of Nuevo, California. Others present were: Orville Bailey, J. A. Fesler and sons, Leo, Jesse and Paul, of Colton, California; Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Alderman and sons, Kenneth and Leslie, of Ionia, Missouri; Mr. and Mrs. Milt Mullins and children, Mrs. C. L. Riley, Imogene, Lydia Mae, Wade, Albert and Junior, of Green Ridge, Missouri; Mr. and Mrs. T. A. Cunningham, Melvin, Leona and Dorothy, of Sedalia; Henry Mullins and children Dorothy, Mondra, and Delbert, also Homer Bailey, all of Warsaw; Mr. and Mrs. Dee Bailey of Osceola; Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Crates, E. W. Jr., and Jimmy of Kansas City; Nancy Skinner of Wheatland; T. J. Bailey of Fristoe; Charles Bailey, Mrs. Frank Long, Mrs. Ralph Long and son, Gene, of Quincy.

FAMILY REUNION. The annual reunion of the Shoemaker, Patterson, and Dark families was held in the park at Appleton City on August 15th.

page 6:
PERSONAL & SOCIETY: Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Allen of Weaubleau were attending to business in Osceola Monday.

page 8:
COLLINS: T. W. Orr and wife of Springfield spent Sat. night in Collins.

Thursday, August 26, 1937
page 6:
L&P: Mrs. John Fields of Clinton came to Osceola Tuesday to visit until Sunday in the home of her son, Ross B. Fields, and Mrs. Fields.

Thursday, Sept. 9, 1937
page 1:
GEORGE W. GARRISON. George Washington Garrison was born March 28, 1858 and departed this life August 29, 1937, at the age of 79 years, 5 months, and 1 day. He was united in marriage to Sarah Wisner on April 17, 1878. To this union 14 children were born, three having preceded him to the Great Beyond.
At the age of 22 he professed faith in Christ and became a member of the Methodist church at Bear Creek. In 1925 he, with his family, moved to the fruit farm near Taberville, where he spent the remainder of his life. His church membership was place in the Taberville Methodist church soon after moving to that community. His life is an open book and all who knew him knew his greatest pleasure was proclaiming Christ as the Light of the world.
He was a lover of home, a well informed horticulturist and experienced poultryman who found a never failing interest in his work. He and his companion were famous for their hospitality, and no friend or stranger was ever turned away from their door without an invitation to a hearty meal or a night's lodging in their home.
He will be sadly missed by his companion, his children, and community. He leaves also a number of great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends who are grieved by his passing.
Ten of the eleven children living were present at the funeral: Mrs. Jesse Hooper, Mrs. Lora Harper, Mrs. Charles Steeber, Mrs. George Siegismund, Mrs. Clive Heath, Louie, Arthur, Addie, Vesta, and Paul. Mrs. Lester Heath of Bakersfield, California, was unable to attend, but was with her father during a large portion of his illness.

DIES AT WEAUBLEAU Friday morning's Kansas City Times carried a story concerning the death of John Orr, 88 year old religious song leader, at his home in Weaubleau. "'Uncle Book"', as he was nicknamed over twenty-five years ago, had lived in the Ozarks over seventy-five years. He never followed any particular trade, but made his living by following the revival meetings throughout the Ozarks.
A year ago last June relatives and friends of "'Uncle Book"', helped him and his wife celebrate their sixty-sixth wedding anniversary. Before the end of the month his wife was dead.
He was born in Virginia and came to the Ozarks while still young. He was fond of singing, and covered revival circuits in Missouri, Oklahoma and Kansas during the major part of his life.
He was a brother of Ed Orr, one time recorder of St. Clair County, and a brother of Matt Orr, postmaster in Osceola for eight years. He is survived by a son, daughter, and several grandchildren.

page 3:
COLLINS: Mrs. Flo Orr, her daughter, Burnie, her son, Leslie, and his wife and two children of Buffalo were in town a short time Friday. They were called to Weaubleau by the death of John (Book) Orr, and as they one time lived in Collins, they made the place a flying visit. We understand the funeral of Mr. Orr was held at Weaubleau on Sunday and burial was in Robinson cemetery. Services were delayed waiting the arrival of his son, Robert, from California.

Thursday, Sept. 16, 1937
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JOSEPH WISNER DIES Joseph Wisner was born 1861 and departed this life on Sept. 4, 1937, at the age of 76 years. He was united in marriage to Alice Sunderland. To this union seven children were born, five having preceded him in death. Also his companion. At the age of twenty-one years he professed faith in Christ and became a member of the Methodist Church at Bear Creek. He was a lover of home. A man of few words, but a good honest Christian man. His life was an open book to the community in which he spent his entire life. He and his companion were well known for their hospitality and their many friends enjoyed going to their home. He will be sadly missed by his two remaining children, and the community here at Bear Creek. He also leaves a number of grandchildren and one little great granddaughter, Donna Rae Poling and a host of other relatives and friends who are grieved by his passing. His two children, Mrs. Arthur Poling of Butler, Mo., and Lawrence Wisner of Lowry City, Mo. were present at the funeral held at the little White Church by the side of the road here at Bear Creek, near his old home and where he with his family and friends and neighbors had spent many happy days together. A large crowd attending the funeral services and the many beautiful floral offerings testimonials of the esteem in which he was held by his relatives, friends and neighbors.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Hudson of Lowry City, Mo., assisted by Bro. Leatherman of Lowry City, and his body gently lowered by the side of his companion in the little quiet grave yard at Bear Creek.

T. G. BERNARD Funeral services were held at the home at three o'clock Saturday afternoon, for Judge T. G. Bernard. Judge Bernard died at his home here Thursday morning after an illness of about five months. He had been in failing health for about two years prior to that.
Services were conducted by the Rev. Ford, a former pastor of the primitive Baptist Church in Springfield where the late Judge and Mrs. Bernard were faithful members for many years.
Judge Bernard is survived by one son, W. M. Bernard, of Salem, three daughters, the Misses Martha Jean and Mary Stanton of Salem and Louise of the home, and two daughters-in-law, Mrs. W. M. Bernard of Salem and Mrs. Norma Bernard, who has been a faithful and loving homemaker for the Judge and his wife in their declining years.
Thomas Griffin Bernard, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Mansfield H. Bernard, was born in Hickory county on Nov. 14, 1862 and grew to manhood near Dooley's Bend. His early schooling was in Hickory county and his college work was done at a teacher's college in Fort Scott, Kansas.
He was married In Jan. 25, 1882, to Mary Jane Dooley, who was also a resident of Dooley's Bend, and they established their new home there.
Mr. Bernard taught school at Dooley's Bend, and various other places in Hickory county. In 1890 he went to Arkansas to teach and spent the years between then and 1902 teaching there in various places and at Dunnegan.
In 1902 he and his family moved to Iconium where he worked in a store for a year. In 1903 he came to Osceola to be deputy County Clerk under his brother-in-law, Charles Steele.
...active in Republican party....was a clerk in the Probate Judge's office for about 8 years...then elected to the office of Probate Judge....[cut off]

page 2:
L&P: J. W. Delozier and John Swicegood of Gerster spent Saturday afternoon in Osceola and attended funeral services for T. G. Bernard.

Thursday, Sept. 23, 1937
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HOGLES CREEK: Uncle George Feaster, past eighty, left for California the latter part of last week. He has one brother, Al, and one sister, Mrs. Emma Nowell, near Tulare. His son, Linwood, with whom he had lived until recently, has just moved his family to Colorado where they are reported to be doing nicely. Happy wishes to them all in their new locations.

Thursday, Sept. 30, 1937
page 2:
COBB REUNION: second annual held Sunday, Sept 19 at home of Mr. and Mrs. John Cobb on Hogles Creek....Mr. and Mrs. Isom Collins of Deepwater who used to be neighbors were present, also....Miss Vera Feaster represented the Dee Cobb-Feaster family...

Thursday, Oct. 7, 1937
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L&P: C. Roy Fields drove to Bolivar Thursday night and brought his mother, Mrs. John Fields, of Clinton, to Osceola to spend a few days. Mrs. Fields had spent the past two weeks in the home of her sister, Mrs. John Davis and Mr. Davis, in Bolivar.

Thursday, Oct. 21, 1937
page 4:
L&P: Mr. and Mrs. P. H. Crabtree, formerly of Bellevue, Nebraska, were in Osceola for the day Thursday. Mr. and Mrs. Crabtree have moved to their farm near Iconium, where they plan to make their home. Mr. Crabtree was raised near Iconium, leaving there about eight years ago. They spent a short time Thursday visiting in the home of Mr. Crabtree's grandmother, Mrs. Mollie Crabtree.

Thursday, Nov. 4, 1937
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COLLINS: Another milestone in the journey of life for Mrs. Julia Mason was passed Oct. 27th, which was her eighty-second birthday. Because of her illness, no formal celebration was held, but relatives and friends remembered the day. She was able to be up part of last week, but is in bed at this writing.
Recently the writer was shown a group photograph, taken, perhaps, 35 or 40 years ago, (it was not dated) of all the old ladies and a few of the middleaged ones, living in Collins at that time. Of the 23 women pictured, only four of the then younger ones are known to be living. They are: Mrs. Julia Mason, 82, Collins; her sister, Mrs. Mollie Francis, 84, New York City; Mrs. James Freeman, Vista, and Mrs. Lizzie Nauman, Texas. Among the old ladies in the group are Mesdames Paulina Wright, Leah Orr, Henry Draper, Plumlee, Culp, Otto Buzzard, Martha Francis, Mary Laney, and Fields (mother of John Fields). Looking at the faces so well known at that time, but some of which could not be readily recalled, the realization came anew that time marches relentlessly on, and age gives way to youth.

Thursday, Dec. 16, 1937
page 1:
WALTER PARKER Walter Parker, son of John R. and Mary F. Parker was born June 27th, 1881 in St. Clair County, Missouri, near Collins. On the 15th day of February [N.B. no year], he was united in marriage to Mary Altha Coffey. To this union 9 children were born, of which seven are living; Olan Parker of Nebraska, Clyde Parker of Osceola, Leo Parker of New Mexico, Glen Parker of Osceola, Mrs. Harold Myers of Osceola, Mrs. Lois Adamson of California, and Miss Evelyn of Strasburg, Mo.
In December 1933 he was married to Mrs. Nina Powell. To this union one son was born, Walter Richard Parker, who is 5 months old. Besides his wife and children, he leaves to mourn his loss, two brothers, George Parker of Burlington, Kansas, and Boone Parker of Sedalia, Missouri, one sister, Mrs. Chas. Kauffman, of Vista, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Walter spent most of his life in St. Clair County and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. After an illness of several weeks he departed this life Nov. 23, 1937. He was laid to rest in the Macedonia cemetery near Vista, Nov. 24, 1837. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Albert Gaston of Gerster.

ERNEST C. HULL Ernest C. Hull was born on August 8, 1897 in Overton, Nebraska and died at his farm home near Vista, December 8, 1937 at the age of 40 years, 4 months, and 1 day. Mr. Hull has been an invalid most of his life. He had a most kind disposition, and was always cheerful. He loved good books and spent most of his time reading.
He leaves to mourn his passing, a brother and sister and other relatives. Funeral services were held at Vista, Saturday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. H. A. Jones, pastor of the Grace Methodist church. Interment was in the Osceola cemetery.

page 6:
COPIED "'Letter from Mrs. DeLee"' from Fowler, Calif. [Mrs. C. G. DeLee]

Thursday, Dec. 30, 1937
page 5:
L&P: Mrs. Sallie Minks, who has been very ill the past two weeks, is not any better, and will be taken to the home of her daughter, Mrs. K. Butcher.

Thursday, Jan 6, 1938
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DOUBLE WEDDING: On Christmas day, December 25, 1937, Ross Allen, Alma Breshears, Harve Slocum and Oleva Allen were quietly married in a beautiful home wedding at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Allen, near Gerster, Missour, Miss Oleva being their accomplished daughter. Miss Alma is the accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alva Breshears of near Avery and is now teaching school at Fairview. The brides wore lovely blue lace gowns. The bridegrooms were dressed in dark suits. Ross is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rannie Allen, and is one of Hickory County's teachers. Harve is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Judge Slocum, and is a prosperous young farmer. He has been in Iowa for some time. The Rev. Albert Gaston was officiating minister. [COPIED list of 87 guests]

page 4:
VISTA: Mrs. J. M. Freeman was reported as being on the sick list, last week.; Mrs. E. P. Coffey attended funeral services for Mr. Martin at Weaubleau, Monday.; Reign Coffey who has employment at Hannibal, spent his vacation in the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey.

Thursday, Jan. 27, 1938
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VISTA: Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Coffey of Rainey spent Friday with Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey.

HOGLES CREEK: Uncle George Feaster visited his half-sister, Mrs. Elma Mulkey a week ago. Uncle George came on by McClellands to see Mrs. Dell McGee whom he has known since she was a child. Uncle George is past 85 now but gets around well for his age.

page 6:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: John Bill Wilson, who has been in Los Angeles, California for several months returned to Osceola Thursday for a visit in the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. B. Wilson.

page 7:
L&P: D. L. Crabtree of Iconium was in Osceola Thursday afternoon attending to business and visiting in the home of his mother, Mrs. Mollie Crabtree. Mrs. Crabtree has been quite ill for some time, but is thought to be getting along nicely at this time.

Thursday, Feb. 17, 1938
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MILLIOUS E. WHEELER: Millious Edgar Wheeler son of Michael and Sara Wheeler, pioneers of this county, was born February 25, 1876, and departed this life at the home of his son, Wesley, Sunday, February 6th, 1938, his age being sixty-one years, eleven months and eleven days. He was married to Miss Ella E. Wisner, on September 26, 1897.
To this union were born nine children, all grown and married. All attended the funeral, but the oldest son, Edwin, who lives in Idaho, and was unable to attend. The children are as follows: Edwin of Wendell, Idaho; Charles M. of Osceola; Alva of Blairstown; Elva, now Mrs. George Fleming of the home; Wesley, Robert and Carlos of Osceola; Eula, now Mrs. Thomas Lowry of Vista; Dorothy, now Mrs. Harvey Baumgarden of Gerster. He is survived by his wife, nine children and twenty grandchildren, also two sisters, Mrs. Lelitia Lane and Mrs. Della Jenkins of Bonna Terra, Idaho, and two brothers, John Wheeler of Kansas City, and Howard of Sapulpa. A sister, Nancy, died in infancy, and a brother, Harve died a number of years ago.
Mr. Wheeler had never united with any church but professed faith in Christ at a revival meeting about 25 years ago, conducted by the Rev. Dent at the Dillon school house.
His funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Toby Tucker of Ft. Scott, Kansas, at the Bear Creek church.

Thursday, February 24, 1938
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DEBORAH MARGARET SUITER-LOVE Very softly the death angel whispered the name of a beloved mother in the early morning of Feb. 10, 1938 and the sweet spirit of Mrs. Debbie Love passed into the unknown. She had reached the age of 56 years and 25 days. Deborah Margaret was the youngest of a family of four daughters. Her parents, Thos. and Jane Suiter, were staunch and upright pioneers of their day. The farm home where Debbie was born lies along Hogles Creek in Benton County, north and east of Iconium. Here Debbie grew to lovely young womanhood, the pride of the family. All too quickly her school days ended and sweetheart days began. At seventeen she became the bride of Omar L. Love, September 25, 1899. They made their home on a farm near the old folks. Nine children blessed this union, one boy and eight girls, all of whom survive. Mrs. Debbie Love proffessed religion early in life. She was of the Methodist faith and lived by the Golden Rule. She was a dutiful daughter, a devoted wife and mother, a trustworthy friend. She will be sadly missed in this walk of life. After the children began to leave the home nest, the family also moved away. Mrs. Love had been in failing health for some time, her condition becoming serious in December. She was taken to St. Josephs hospital in Kansas City where human skill failed in the effort to cure. Dread cancer of the liver did the deadly work. Mrs. Love felt that she would recover but she passed from delirium into a coma several days before the end. She leaves her husband, Omar L. Love, and her children: Mrs. C. E. Rhenhold and Eva Fay Love of Gashland, Mo., Mrs. Clarence Duke, Mrs. Pearl Cox and Grace Love, of Kansas City, Troy Love of Amarillo, Texas, Mrs. T. J. Doke of Denver, Colo., Mrs. Herbert Drake of Hoisington, Kans., and Mrs. Fred Roth of Lathrop, Mo. She leaves one grandson, Ray Siebert Love, two sisters, Mrs. Oll Ashinhurst of Iconium, and Mrs. Jess Feaster of Quincy, also many other relatives and friends.

PERSONAL COLUMNS APPEARING IN ST CLAIR COUNTY DEMOCRAT
Bradford High Hill Mt. Zion Valley Center King's Prairie
Mt. Olive Lewis Star and Wolf Branch Prairie Home
Hogles Creek Harmony Corbin River View & Vicinity Rainey
Collins Chalk Level Bradford Landaker Square Prairie
Vista Coon Creek Roscoe Ohio P. O. Stringtown
Tiffin

Thursday, March 10, 1938
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OLL ASHINHURST. John Oliver Ashinhurst was born in the lower Hogle Creek community near Fairfield, Mo., March 1, 1871 and at midday March 1, 1938 just 67 years later, his sweet spirit returned to God the Giver. His life was well spent. Like Paul of old he might have said, "'I have fought the good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept my faith."'
His parents were uncle Bill and Aunt Amanda Means-Ashinhurst, sturdy old timers of their day. He was the third of a family of five children.
He was married to Martha DeRainda Suiter August 18, 1893. The home they built in the spring of '94 still survives. Here their two daughters were born, Dessie Ashinhurst-Tally deceased, and Katie Ashinhurst-Tally of Lowry City. The greatest sorrow of his life was the death of his older daughter in 1934.
Oll Ashinhurst professed faith in Christ at a revival meeting at Hopewell. He and his wife were both baptized the same day, October 27, 1893 by Edgar Means of Weaubleau. Thus the new home established 45 years ago was headed by earnest young Christians.
Mr. Ashinhurst had been a member of the Masonic Order for more than twenty years. He lived up to the principles of that order and of his church. He was a loyal friend, a trustworthy neighbor, and a devoted husband.
His death was caused by heart failure. There was no time, when the summons came, to whisper farewells or speak words of advice to loved ones. His work was finished; the reward was won. He leaves his beloved companion, his one daughter, Katie Tally, two granddaughters, Martha Jean and Katie Marcine Tally, also two brothers, Riley Ashinhurst of Clinton and Sam Ashinhurst of Wisdom. Another near relative is Edgar Montgomery an orphaned nephew who had been a member of the home since he was a boy of sixteen.
Funeral services were conducted at Iconium Thursday noon by Elder West. A large crowd was present.....

JERRY THOMAS DAVIS. Jerry Thomas Davis was born Sept. 3, 1866 at LaClede, Mo. and passed away March 2, 1938 at his home in Vista at the age of 71 years, 6 months. He was married at the age of 19 to Mary Vaugn. To this union were born five children, Nora, Ada, Mamie, Lydia, and Claud. His wife and four children preceded him in death. In 1899 he was married to Mattie Vaugn. To this union were born three children, Charley, Kate and Jack. Charley passed away in 1926. Mr. Davis was converted in 1887 at Macedonia church and has been a faithful Christian ever since. He is survived by his wife, three children, Mrs. Ada Wood of Kansas City, Kansas; Mrs. Kate Smith of Bakersfield, California and Jack of the home; six grandchildren, three sisters, Mrs. Greeley Burrow, Mrs. Lydia Morrow, Mrs. Della Cruzan; one brother, Manuel Davis, and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon at the Vista Baptist church by the Rev. Wayne Rosecrans...Graveside services at Macedonia cemetery by members of the Masonic Lodge of Osceola.

Thursday, March 31, 1938
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MRS. WILSON DIES. Word was received here Weds. of the death at 2 p.m. Monday of Mrs. Enolie Mae Wilson, 76, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Roger Frank, of Collins. Funeral services were conducted Thursday afternoon at the United Brethren church in Collins, with interment in the Robison cemeter.

Thursday, April 14, 1938
page 5:
COUNTRY GLEANINGS: Mrs. John Allen and daughter, Blanche called on the Everett Allen family Sunday evening. Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Cooper were callers in the same home from Wednesday until Sunday.

Thursday, May 5, 1938
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RR BONDS ARE BURNED. (entire page dedicated to ceremony; $534,000 worth of bonds destroyed, accounting for all but 62 of the original bonds issued to pay for capital stock in the old Clinton branch of the Tebo and Neosho railroad that was never built)

Thursday, May 26, 1938
page 2:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Rogers of Tulsa, Okla., spent the weekend in the homes of Mr. and Mrs. T. O. Daniel and Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Barnett. Mrs. S. H. Johnson, Mr. Daniel and Mr. Rogers drove to Springfield, Sunday, where Mr. Rogers took the train to New York. Mrs. Rogers remained to visit in the Daniel and Barnett homes.

Thursday, June 2, 1938
page 2:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: Mrs. T. O. Daniel, Mrs. J. C. Barnett and Mrs. S. H. Johnson drove to Wheatland Friday afternoon and visited in the home of Dr. and Mrs. A. S. Johnston. They were accompanied home by Mrs. H. H. Rogers, of Tulsa, Okla., who had spent two days visiting in Wheatland.

page 4:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Hartley of Batesville, Ark. were in Osceola over the weekend visiting in the home of Mr. Hartley's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hartley.
comic strips on pages 4 & 5!

page 6:
photos from school reunion...COPIED in part

page 7:
VISTA: Our community was cast into a state of gloom by the passing away of one of our long time residents, Mrs. Geo. Stiles, at her home early Thursday morning, after a lingering illness, and her death was no surprise but had been expected for some time...services held at Vista Baptist church Sat....burial in Macedonia cemetery.

Thursday, June 8, 1938
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COLLINS (May 31 1938): Thornton Hardy, twenty-four year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ross Hardy died at the home in Jefferson City on Friday, May 24. The family formerly lived in Weaubleau and funeral service was held at the Baptist church there on Sunday afternoon. Burial was in Souders cemetery.

Thursday, June 16, 1938
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MRS. GEO. F. STILES Ora Bell Butcher, daughter of Joseph B. and Emaline Butcher; was born near Girard, Ill., August 1, 1864 and passed away at her home near Vista May 19, 1938 at the age of 73 years, 9 months and 18 days. In 1869 she came with her parents to Missouri residing on a farm one mile southwest of Collins where she grew to womanhood. She was united in marriage to Geo. F. Stiles January 6, 1884. To this union two children were born: Mrs. Nova Garrison of Vista and Frank Stiles of Mobridge, S.D. She had lived near Vista for 50 years. Some 50 years ago she had accepted Jesus as her personal Savior, under the preaching of Bro. J. M. Freeman and united with the Macedonia Baptist church, later placing her membership with the Vista Baptist church. During her illness it was impossible for her to attend church services so she was always watching for the radio Song and Gospel service which she was so eager to hear. She often expressed herself as being ready and willing for the summons to come. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, daughter, son and three granddaughters, Mrs. Geneva Bledsoe of Osciola, Mrs. June Gordon of Vista, Arvilla Stiles of Mobridge, S.D., and four great-grandchildren; one sister Mrs. Clara Webb of North Kansas City; one brother Frank Butcher of Pomona, Calif., one sister-in-law Mrs. Eliza Eisiminger [Elsiminger?] of Kansas City and other relatives and friends.

page 2:
GERSTER: [first listing in 1938!]

Thursday, June 30, 1938
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INJURES ARM Billy Hartley, son of Mr. and Mrs. Opal Hartley of Osceola, received a severe cut and bruises on his right arm Sunday afternoon when he and Bobby Newman Ginsburg who were on bicycles were crowded from the highway by a car containing three boys from Kansas City. The Osceola boys were riding abreast, on their way to Collins, when the car came up from behind them and refused to move over. Billy was riding off the pavement, and Bobby Newman swung over to get out of the car's way. The handlebars of the bicycles locked, standing the bicycles on their front wheels, and throwing the boys off into the ditch with Billy underneath Bobby. The boys in the car took Billy to a doctor in Collins, where four stitches were necessary to close the would. Billy and Bobby were making one of the required trips to earn a merit badge for cycling in their Boy Scout work.

page 8:
VISTA: Miss Olive June Coffey, student at Southwest Baptist college spent the weekend in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey.

Thursday, July 7, 1938
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SON KILLED. Mr. and Mrs. T. B. Wilson received a telegram Monday evening stating their second son, Charley Yancey, of Santa Maria, Calif., had been killed in a train accident. No further particulars are known about the accident. Mrs. Wilson immediately contacted her eldest son, Joel in Los Angeles, who called Mrs. Yancey Wilson, then left immediately for Santa Maria, where funeral services were to have been held Wednesday afternoon. Yancy is survived by his wife, his parents, one sister, Mrs. Frank M. O'Hearne of Chicago, Ill., and three brothers, Joel of Los Angeles, Thomas and John Bill of Osceola. He was born February 2, 1899. He was reared in Osceola and graduated from the high school here. At the time of his death he was in the employ of the Fruit Growers Association.

page 6:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Woolery and two sons of KC spent a short time Fri. evening in the home of Mr. Woolery's siter, Mrs. Jim Walters and Mr. Walters on their way to Bay, Ark., to spend the weekend in the home of another sister, Mrs. W. M. Moon and Mr. Moon.

Thursday, July 14, 1938
page 4:
DeLee's At Church Dinner. Mr. and Mrs. Hubert DeLee, and Mrs. DeLee's mother, Mrs. John Fields, of Clinton, were in Osceola Sunday, visiting Mr. and Mrs. Roy C. Fields, and attending the celebration at the Baptist church.

page 5:
LOCAL AND PERSONAL: Mr. and Mrs. Ross B. Fields spent the weekend in Kansas City Kans., visiting in the home of Mrs. Fields' mother, Mrs. S. M. Jackson and grandmother, Mrs. Emma Bailey.

page 7:
VISTA: J. T. Swicegood and a friend from Gerster were transacting business in this vicinity Thursday.

Thursday, July 21, 1938
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Routine Check Locates Old Relatives; News Tip Helps Garrisons Locate Former St. Clair Countians...Mr. and Mrs. John Sams of Stanford, Mont., who were married in Osceola

BENJAMIN F. TUCKER Benjamin Franklin Tucker was born in St. Clair county on May 28, 1857 and departed this life on July 6, 1938 at the age of 81 years, 1 month and 8 days. On March 18, 1878 he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Frances Pennington of St. Clair county. To this union was born Mrs. Della Doyal, of Stillwell, Kansas, Mrs. Carrie Rogers of Lebo, Kans., Mrs. Letha Terry, of Lexington, Mrs. Eva Stevens of Collins, Mrs. Lula Baumgarden of Collins, Perry Tucker of Newton, Kansas, and Everett Tucker of Butler. Early in life Mr. Tucker and his wife were converted and united with Gerster Baptist church where they were members until death. Several years ago Mrs. Tucker answered the summons to come up higher. For the last nine years he has made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Letus Stevens, where everything possible was done to make his last years happy and comfortable. He was a good husband and a good father and neighbor, liked and respected by all who knew him. On July 4 he went with a group of friends and relatives on a picnic outing and seemed to enjoy life to the fullest, never dreaming that death had prepared to strike so soon. The last day before death came he was as well as for several years, and was out doors, so when he was found dead the next morning it was a shock to all. Besides the children he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Pliney Allen, of Overland Park, Kansas; and Mrs. Matt Robinson, of Springfield; a brother, Louis, of Kansas City; three half-sisters, Mrs. E. Perkins of Osceola; Mrs. John Todd, of Gerster; and Mrs. Margaret Lovall, of Ft. Scott, Kansas, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was laid to rest on July 7, 1938 in the Kings Prairie cemetery, with the sermon by Rev. Albert Gaston, of Gerster. Pall bearers were Otha Stephens, Charlie Stephens, Roy Stephens, Homer Doyal, Avery Baumgarden, all of whom were grand children. [poem]

Thursday, July 28, 1939
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Ray Wilson's Have A Son. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Wilson of Humansville are the proud parents of a seven and a half pound son born Tuesday afternoon. Mrs. Wilson was formerly Opal Allen. Both she and her son are doing nicely.

Thursday, August 4, 1938
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ANNUAL DeLOZIER REUNION: The eleventh annual DeLozier reunion was held at Weaubleau July 31, 1938. Approximately 800 attended. Eight states were represented: California, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Ohio, Colorado, Oklahoma and Missouri. ... This reunion is for the purpose of uniting the decendents of Edward H. DeLozier, who was the father of twenty children and was started by decendents of Jeems DeLozier, one of the twenty, on the 100th birthday of Melissa DeLozier, wife of Jeems.
Five decendants of Jeems DeLozier were present of the six living from a family of 12. They were Frank DeLozier of Chelsea, Okla., Wess DeLozier and Lucy Larden of Gerster, Robert DeLozier and Margaret Hawkins of Weaubleau, H. F. DeLozier of Sapulpa, Okla., was in Vermont and could not attend, but sent a telegram which was read at the reunion.
... Decendants of seven of the original twenty were represented: Jeems, Perrin, Neddie, Crumwell, Mary, Adaline and Fountaine. .....Asa Hartley came 700 miles.

MRS. JOHN CARVER DIES. Mother of Mrs. Fred Wears Passes Away at Weaubleau Hospital. Word was received here Friday night of the death at the Weaubleau hospital of Mrs. John Carver, 68, of Gerster, mother of Mrs. Fred Wears of Osceola. Death came at 9:15, following a brief illness. Mrs. Wears had been in Weaubleau since her mother was taken there Wednesday. Mr. Wears went to Weaubleau Friday night and Mrs. Wears accompanied him home. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at 10 o'clock at the King's Prairie church. Interment was in the King's Prairie cemetery.

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LOCALS: Mrs. Eleanor Bell entertained with a one o'clock luncheon Thursday, honoring Miss Bertha Daniel, who is here from Pennsylvania, visiting her mother, Mrs. George Daniel. Guests included Mrs. George Daniel, who is visiting in the Bell home this week, Mrs. Walter Cox and Mrs. Bell's daughter, Mrs. Roy Fields.

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COLLINS: Mrs. Wm. Minks is entertaining her niece and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Paxton of Redlands, Calif. She is a daughter of Wm. Carpenter. Supper guests in the Wm. Minks home Sunday were Mrs. Dot Vanderford and daughter of Nevada, Glenn Culbertson and wife and little son, and Mrs. and Mrs. Paxton.
Wann Brookshire and wife of Chanute, Kans., called to see the Misses Ora and Nettie Thompson on Friday afternoon. They were enroute to Hickory county to visit her relatives. Other callers were Roy Thompson of Flemington, and Harvey Thompson of Brownington, on Saturday. Mrs. Emma Epperson of Blyhedale, Ark., was a guest for several days.

STAR: Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Woolery and daughter, Marcene and Mrs. and Mrs. Bus Hattle and two sons spent Monday in the Richard North home. Mr. and Mrs. Bus Hadley and two sons of Kansas City, who have been visiting in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Woolery, returned home Thursday morning. They were accompanied home by Miss Marcene Woolery, who will make them a visit.

HOGLES CREEK: Miss Dolores Swicegood of Jefferson City, who taught the Union school a few years ago was married recently. Friends here send happy greetings and best wishes to her and her husband.

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VISTA: Mrs. Rusha Lynes of Springfield came Weds. afternoon and stayed until Saturday evening in the home of her mother, Mrs. J. M. Freeman.

more locals: HEARD, JACKSON, BLUE MOUND, BROWN'S FORD, BLACK JACK

Thursday, August 25, 1938
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COBB REUNION. The third Cobb reunion was held Sunday, August 21, 1938 in the hospitable home of Mr. and Mrs. Charley Cobb at Deepwater. One hundred and twenty-eight persons were present, eighty-six of whom were relatives. These 86 members of the Cobb family were descendants of Alvis and Ed Cobb, old-timers who settled on Hogles Creek many years ago. ... several paragraphs of information on different branches of the family...

BEAR CREEK HOMECOMING LARGEST KNOWN. Attendance at Reunion Estimated to be About 500--Friends Meet For First Time in 50 Years.

ALLEN REUNION. The Allen reunion will meet at Bridgeview Camp, September 4th. Everyone is cordially invited to attend.

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LOCALS: Mrs. Belle Fields, who makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Hubert DeLee and Mr. DeLee in Clinton, was been quite ill with malaria fever, but is feeling much better now. [as printed]

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--revival at Vista
Surprise Party Tuesday Night. When Charles Roy (Buddy) Fields, Jr., went out on his front porch Tuesday evening about eight he was agreeably surprised to find a group of his friends there to celebrate his birthday. The group included the Misses Dimple Fulton, Elaine Crook, Georgia Johnson, Fern Lyons and Eleanor Bell Fields, Mr. and Mrs. George Hampton and Dan Dewey, Dick Kiefer, Paul Simms, Victor and Vernon Knight, Marion Davies and Brandon Hull. They went from the Field's home to the swimming pool in Clinton. After their swim they had a nice picnic lunch. The rest of the evening was spent dancing.

Thursday, Sept. 1, 1938
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A LETTER FROM K. C. Mr. R. W. Ginsburg, Dear Sir, ... We arrived in L. A. Saturday at 8:30, August 6. Next day we had a picnic at Redondo Beach. There were 26 in the party, all children, grand-children and great-grandchildren of the late John R. Wilson who resided on a farm 6 miles south of Osceola for many years. We went deep sea fishing and caught so many nice fish you wouldn't believe me if I told you how many so I will leave that for you to guess. ... J. B. Wilson, 2444 Chelsea, Kansas City, Mo.

Thursday, Sept. 8, 1938
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VISTA: teachers who started Monday morning....Miss Olive June Coffey at Short near Lowry City

late Sept...began running photos of each school

Thursday, Oct. 13, 1938
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MARTIN LUTHER HARDY Martin Luther Hardy, son of Burks and Susan Hardy, was born in Hart County Kentucky Sept. 25, 1863, and passed away at his home in Collins, Oct. 16, 1938. Age 70 years, 1 month and 6 days. The deceased was the eighth child in a family of nine children. With his parents he moved from Kentucky to Laclede County, Missouri in 1872, the family later moving to St. Clair county, where the remainder of his life was spent living most of the time west of Collins. He was converted in a meeting at Harvard school house about 1886 and united with the Methodist church which had an organization at that place at that time. Of his family, all are deceased with the exception of two sisters, Mrs. Mollie Meredith of Weaubleau, and Mrs. Sallie Allen of Collins, and one brother, Willis D. Hardy of Collins. Mrs. Allen and the two brothers have made their home together for a number of years and their devotion to each other was most touching. ...Funeral services were held at the Baptist Church in Collins at 2 p.m., Tuesday October 17, conducted by Rev. Jones of Osceola. The remains were laid to rest in the Allen cemetery. Funeral services were under direction of Firestone and Joseph.

MRS. FLORA SHAW Mrs. Flora Shaw was the oldest child of J. F. and Fannie Gordon. She was born February 14th, 1879 near Cosey, Ill. She died at the home of her daughter, Oct. 13, 1938. Her mother died when she was 15 years old and she assumed the duties and responsibilities of the home and the younger children. She was converted when she was fourteen and ever lived a faithful and beautiful Christian life through the remaining years in the end. Her family moved to Kansas a while then to Pike county, after which she attended Southwest Baptist College at Bolivar, where she met Mr. Shaw. She was married on Christmas Day, 1902. To this union one child was born, Fannie Elizabeth, now Mrs. McHenry, who cared for her mother through her long illness. She leaves to mourn her death her daughter and two grandchildren, Don and Elizabeth McHenry of the home; a brother George E. Gordon, Caplinger Mills; two sisters, Mrs. F. H. Stewart, Fillmore, Calif., and Mrs. A. L. Hendren, Ridgeway, Mo., and two half brothers, Frank H. Gordon, of Vista, and Dr. William Gordon, of Boston.

MRS. MARY HOLSAPPLE STAMBAUGH DIES Mrs. M. Stambaugh, 49, daughter of Mrs. Sylvia Holsapple died Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 at the St. John's Hospital in Springfield. She had complications of Asthma and Hay Fever. The funeral will be held in the Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home in Springfield at 2 o'clock Sunday. ...Her father was a mail carrier in Osceola for twenty years. Mr. Stambaugh was in the poultry business here fifteen years ago. She is survived by her husband, M. M. Stambaugh and mother, Mrs. Sylvia Holsapple.

Thursday, Oct. 20, 1938
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HOGLES CREEK: We are interested in some snapshot pictures we saw Sunday, taken by Murat Stevens in California. Over in Redlands they have a celebration called Missouri Day on the third Sunday in August each year. Murat snapped his mother, Mrs. Janove Stevens, Mrs. Nona Wilson-Scott, Mrs. Dave Bailey, May Bailey and several other Missourians who were lunching together.

Thursday, Nov. 3, 1938
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CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY A crowd of friends and relatives gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Williams Sunday, Oct. 30th, and had a surprise dinner in honor of Mrs. Williams' father, Mr. M. W. Woolery, whose birthday was Nov. 1st. After the table was fixed in the yard and all the good things were ready to eat, the crowd gathered around and Bro. Richard North expressed thanks, after everyone did ample justice to the good dinner prepared. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Woolery and daughter; Enoch Williams and family; Murl Woolery and family; Bus Hottle and family; Charlie Woolery, wife and son; Ira Woolery and wife; Earl Woolery, wife and three children; Jim Walters, wife and son; Oscar Walker and family; Keith Hannah, wife and son; Burl Woolery; Geo. Schnetzer and family; Charlie Poe and family; Bert Koger and family; Mr. and Mrs. Richard North; Richard Bray and family; Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Bray and son; Bob Ballard and family; Clem Daugherty and family; Mr. and Mrs. Dan Cripe; Frank Crocker and family; Mr. and Mrs. Walter Munson; Johnnie Shelton, wife and son; Tom Yates and family; Riley, Luther and Roy Sherman; Mrs. Harry Campbell; Douglas Johnson; Guy and Daisy Veach; Hugh and Bill Daugherty; Robert Poston and Arthur Schnetzer. Esther and Lettie Mae Todd called in the afternoon. All departed late in the afternoon, saying they had enjoyed themselves and wishing Mr. Woolery many more happy birthdays. One present.

Thursday, Nov. 10, 1938
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VISTA: Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Stiles of Rainey were Sunday guests in the home of her brother, E. P. Coffey and Mrs. Coffey.; Miss Olive June Coffey who teaches near Lowry City, spent the week end in the home of her parens, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey.

Thursday, Nov. 17, 1938
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LOCALS: Daniel Kennedy, C. Roy Fields and Ross B. Fields drove to Clinton Thursday night to attend an American Legion party given in celebration of Armistice Day.

Thursday, Dec. 8, 1938
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COLLINS: A skating party to the Vista rink on Monday and Thursday afternoons included Mesdames Lowry Belisle, Paul Firestone, Johnnie Allen, Lewis Baldwin, Misses Loree Mason and Alyee Moore.

Thursday, Dec. 15, 1938
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COLLINS: The writer was very pleasantly surprised Monday afternoon to receive a visitor. Mrs. Belle Freeman Ellerman of Shannon County who is visiting relatives here. Fifty or more years ago, when I was a child, Mrs. Ellerman, who was Miss Freeman then, was a friends of my mother. She said that forty years have elapsed since she moved from here, and that it has been seventeen years since she was in Collins, so she finds some changes. Last week she was with her sister, Mrs. Della Southwick, and visited the cemetery near her childhood home. It was then called Freeman, but is now the Holsapple cemetery. She is in town this week with her sisters, Mrs. Edith Taylor and Mrs. Nellie Higgins, and has set no definite time to end her visit.

Thursday, Dec. 29, 1938
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VISTA: Reign Coffey of North Missouri came to spend the holidays in the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey.

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LOCALS: Mr. and Mrs. C. Roy Fields and family and Mrs. Eleanor Bell visited Mr. and Mrs. Hubert DeLee and Mrs. Belle Fields Christmas. Mr. and Mrs. Ross B. Fields spent Christmas in Kansas City with Mrs. Fields' mother and grandmother. They visited in Clinton that evening.

Thursday, Jan.5, 1939
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OSCAR MEEK Oscar Meek was born in Salisbury, Indiana, Sept. 18, 1866, and died at the Olla, Louisiana, Hospital from heart trouble, December 20th. Mr. Meek had been in the hospital eight days, receiving treatment for high blood pressure. Mr. Meek lived in St. Clair County as a boy and young man and had many friends and relatives here. He went to Louisiana many years ago after spending several years in Arkansas. Mr. Meek had made many friends in the south and his neighbors paid him the tribute of being one of the finest men that had ever settled in that section of the country. He was farming at the time he was taken ill. He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Minnie N. Smith of west of Osceola, and Mrs. Eugene Jewell of Kansas City. Mr. Meek's physician had written when his condition became serious, but because of the Christmas rush the letter did not reach Osceola until after the telegram telling of his death. Mrs. Smith went to Olla immediately. She brought the body back to Osceola with her last Wednesday. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. John F. McClain at the Smith home Thursday afternoon at two. Interment was in the Yeater cemetery. Card of thanks...Mrs. Minnie Smith, Mrs. Eugene Jewell.

MARRIED IN IDAHO Mrs. Charles Johnson received word here Saturday of the marriage at Idaho Falls, Idaho, of her son, H. A. McCaslin to Miss Caroline Axman, of Idaho Falls. The wedding took place on Friday, December 23.

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LOCALS: Mr. and Mrs. Opal Hartley, Mrs. S. D. Fulton and James Fulton went to Kansas City, Tuesday. Wednesday morning Mrs. Hartley underwent an operation on her nose at the Trinity Lutheran Hospital and is getting along as nicely as possible. Mr. Hartley and Mr. Fulton have returned home. Mrs. Fulton remained in the city to be with her daughter.

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HOGLES CREEK: Uncle George Feaster, past 85 years of age, still takes long walks. He visited over Sunday with his half sister, Mrs. Elma Mulkey and family.

Thursday, Jan. 19, 1939
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MRS. NANCY ELLEN KNIGHT Nancy Ellen Dark, daughter of Micajah and Elizabeth Dark was born in Callaway County, Kentucky, July 14, 1839, and departed this life at Ohio, Mo., January 11, 1939, at the age of 99 years, 5 months and 27 days. She moved with her parents to Missouri in 1854, settling near Chalk Level and lived in that vicinity the remainder of her life. She accepted the Methodist Faith in early womanhood. On September 4, 1860, she was married to Timothy C. Knight, and to this union 8 children were born, her husband and 4 of her children preceding her in death. Those who survive her are: Mrs. Samuel B. Hall of Guymon, Okla., Mrs. Julia McAlexander, Monegaw Springs, Mo., James and John, both of Ohio, Mo., also 11 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Kidd's Chapel, Friday, January 13, conducted by H. A. Higgins. She was laid to rest in the Yeater cemetery. [poem]

MRS. JOSEPH SITTON Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Dean Sitton of Monegaw Springs, will be held at 1:30 o'clock, Friday at the Christian church in Blue Springs, Mo. Burial will be in Salem cemetery at Atherton, Mo. The accidental discharge of a 12 gauge shotgun being unloaded by her husband, Joseph Sitton, caused Mrs. Sitton's death late Tuesday afternoon in the home at Monegaw Springs. Mr. and Mrs. Sitton just had returned to their cabin from hunting rabbits when the tragedy occurred. A single discharge from the gun struck her in the back, and she died before neighbors summoned by the husband could give aid. O. S. Hull, jr., coroner, and John M. Belisle, prosecuting attorney decided no inquest was necessary. Mr. and Mrs. Sitton, who formerly lived in Osceola, had been in Monegaw Springs the last year. Mr. Sitton was a timekeeper on a WPA road-building project there. Previously he had operated the Shell filling station at Osceola. Besides her husband, Mrs. Sitton leaves her father, Edward Hugill, Blue Springs; five brothers, Ernest Hugill, Independence, Kas., Arthur Hugill, 1610 Harris avenue, Independence, Mo.; Henry Hugill and Floyd Hugill, both of Blue Springs and Woodrow Hugill, Gary, Ind., and seven sisters, Miss Helen Hugill and Miss Ruby Hugill, both of Blue Springs; Mrs. Chris Flaig, Atherton; Mrs. Hugh Stayton, Pleasant Hill, Mo.; Mrs. Lulu Ryan, Jacksonville, Fla.; Mrs. Ruth Brophy, Detroit, and Mrs. Ada Oltmer, 1420 Olive street.

WILLIAM SAMUEL ESTES William Samuel Estes, born September 22, 1897, on King's Prairie, near where he spent the 41 years of his life. The only child of Clarence and Jane Estes. After the death of his father in 1918, he made a home for his Mother and Grandmother, the late Margaret Beaver. April 2, 1924 he was united in marriage with Bernice Higgins of Collins, Mo. Those nearest who are left are his devoted Mother, his faithful wife, and two little daughters, Janie Belle, 11 years, and Eva Fern, age 4, and a host of relatives and friends. He passed away January 11, at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, following an operation, after three weeks of intense suffering. On account of their home being destroyed by fire, the body was taken to the home of an aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Edd Hobbs on Wednesday. Funeral was held at King's Prairie Church, January 13th, by Bro. Frank Hardin, to a large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends.

COUNTY'S LAST VETERAN OF THE CIVIL WAR IS 94 TODAY -- story about Peter Myers

Thursday, Dec. 7, 1939
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CISROE AUGUSTUS SOUTHER Cisroe Augustus Souther was born in Towns county, Georgia, June 11, 1881 and departed this life December 1, 1939 at the age of 58 years, 5 months, and 19 days. During his early boyhood, he with his parents, moved from Georgia to Howell county, Missouri. He was united in marriage with Anna Laura Riddle, March 15, 1912. To this union were born two children, Mary and Francis of the home. Mr. Souther professed Christ during the year 1904 at the New Liberty church in Howell county. His strong personality gained for him the love and respect of all his neighbors. He was an every ready friend in the hour of need. 'Gus' as we all knew him, leaves to mourn his loss besides his immediate family, two sisters: Mrs. Hattie Duckering of Roscoe, and Mrs. Kitty McClung of Geary, Oklahoma. Two brothers, Jess Souther of Watonga, Oklahoma and Lee Souther of Tehachapi, California and a host of other relatives and friends. Two brothers and two sisters preceeded him in death. ...Funeral was conducted by J. B. Kirkland at Roscoe Christian church and burial at Benton Green cemetery.

MRS. W. C. DURNELL IN HOSPITAL
Mr. and Mrs. Ott Durnell and W. C. Durnell of Weaubleau accompanied Mrs. W. C. Durnell to Kansas City Tuesday where she entered St. Marys' for treatment for heart trouble. Bill Durnell went to Kansas City Wednesday and will stay while his mother is in the hospital. Mr. Durnell returned home with Mr. and Mrs. Otto Durnell Wednesday evening and went on to his home at Weaubleau. Mrs. Durnell will be in the hospital for a week or more and then stay in Kansas City longer for treatment.
Next Thursday, December 14, will be the 50th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Durnell and the 25th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Durnell. Plans had been made for a big double wedding celebration as it is unusual that a golden wedding anniversary of parents can be celebrated with the silver anniversary of a son. However, Mrs. Durnells' health will not permit any excitement and so the plans had to be cancelled.

Thursday, April 11, 1939
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Mrs. Ross Fields writes from Kohoka that she has been ill ever since she reached her new home and that she suffered a fall that "'put a dent in the pavement on Main St. here to say nothing about my ribs"' but is hoping to see friends from St. Clair County in Jefferson City April 18 when the State Federation of Music Clubs holds a Memorial service at its State Convention honoring the late Mrs. C. H. Green, Sr.

Thursday, Dec. 28, 1939
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A CHRISTMAS DINNER. Seven children of Mrs. Sarah Allen and their families gathered at her home Christmas day to enjoy a family Christmas dinner. Two of them did not get to be with us. Those absent were Rannie Allen and Virgil Nutt. Those present were: Lee Allen and wife, Jim Allen and family, Tom Allen and family, Ervin Allen and family, Dorre Hull and family, Ora Shryer and family, Earl Allen and family of the home and Grandma Hostetter. A large 22 pound turkey was the center of the table with all the other good things to eat. A Christmas tree pilled [sic] high with gifts and old Santa Claus was the afternoon attraction. The camera also had its place. The day was enjoyed by all and hope we can all be together next year. One present.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 1940
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PROMOTION FOR ROSS. B FIELDS Ross B. Fields received word Saturday that he had been promoted to be manager of the R. J. Hurley Lumber Co., yard at Kahoka, Mo. which position he will assume immediately. He plans to leave Osceola for his new post Friday. Besides a splendid increase in salary Mr. Fields will receive a percentage of the yard sales during the year. Mr. and Mrs. Fields plan to move to Kahoka a little later when Mr. Fields has had time to find a home for them in their new location thus making one move do.

MRS. VIRGINIA HUNT Virginia Arabelle Hunt was born in Cooper county, Missouri December 14, 1862 and died January 21, 1940 at the age of 77 years, 1 month, and 7 days. She was the oldest child of Abraham and Mary Jane Crites. At an early age she moved with her parents to Johnson county Mo., there she grew to young womanhood and on December 30, 1880 was united in marriage to Francis Marion Hunt who preceeded her in death October 24, 1936. To this union were born 6 children all of whom survive: Ethel V. Freeman, Albuquerque, N.M.; Bessie A. Gordon, Las Vegas N. M. [sic]; Mayme F. Harrison, Los Angeles, California; Grace L. Gordon, Pueblo, Colorado; Byron O. Hunt and Blanche L. Harrison of Tiffin, Mo. Also 13 grand-children and 3 great grand-children. A few years after her marriage she and her husband moved to St. Clair county near Pape, later moving to their farm near Tiffin, where they resided almost continuously for 45 years. She became a member of the Tiffin Baptist church shortly after moving to that place and remained a faithful member until her death, always attending regularly and taking part in the church work as long as she was physically able. But for several years had been confined to her home on account of a chronic ailment which finally caused her death. She found great comfort in reading her Bible and listening to sermons and song services on the radio, many times joining in the singing of one of her favorite hymns. She will be sadly missed by loved ones and friends. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Kenneth Nichols at the Tiffin Baptist church at 1 p. m. Tuesday January 23rd. Interment in Pleasant Grove cemetery under the direction of the Nafus Funeral Home.

Thursday, Feb. 1, 1940
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Mrs. Lida Crithfield Swanson, died Sunday in a Springfield hospital. In the early 1890's she lived here, the daughter of a Collins merchant, and here she was married in 1895, to Rev. Junius Swanson (South Methodist). He died, leaving her a 10 year old son and nine months old daughter, Junia and a small residence property in Morrisville. By hard work, she built a new house and boarded Morrisville college students. She passed teacher's examinations and taught several terms there before moving to Springfield in 1914. Since then she has taught in the Bowerman school. After her children were through school she did summer school work and in 1928 received a B.S. Degree from STC. She was proud of the fact that all three had degrees from the same college. She taught until the Christmas holidays, when she entered the hospital. Funeral services were in Springfield and burial in Morrisville by the side of her husband. She was the last surviving member of 7 children. These facts of her life during her widowhood were taken from a Springfield paper, and are given here because they will be read by some at a distance who knew Lida Crithfield.

Thursday, Feb. 29, 1940
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D. W. DENNEY PASSES AWAY David William Denney, son of Henry A. and Elizabeth Conner Denney, was born on the Denney homestead, near Lowry City, St. Clair county, Missouri, July 12, 1863 and departed this life at his home in Osceola, February 21, 1940, after an illness of four days. He suffered a stroke Sunday morning from which he never regained consciousness. He was aged 76 years, 7 months and 9 days. Mr. Denney was united in marriage to Mary Julian Millam, May 27, 1885. Three children came to bless this home; Frank O. Denney of Kansas City, George C. Denney of Kansas City and Mrs. Lillie Hunter, who passed away in Clinton, October 31, 1932. There are three grand children: Luther D. Hunter, George C. Denney, Jr. and Mrs. Harry A. Winters all of Kansas City.
Mr. Denney was a prominent school man in St. Clair and Henry Counties. He began his teaching career at about the age of twenty, serving in that capacity for fifty years. He served as superintendent of the Lowry City High School, twelve years, resigning this position after his election as County Sup't. of Public Instruction of St. Clair County. He held this position eight years. Following this he was employed as instructor in the history department of the Osceola High School serving seven years. He was forced from the school room by failing health, but his interest in young lives never ceased. 'Pa Denney' as all loved to call him was such a genuine genial personality, and possessed a character so above reproach that he built a memorial in the memories of all who knew him.
At the time of his passing he was justice of the peace and police judge at Osceola. He had served one year on the Social Security Staff and had been reappointed for four years. He united with the Lowry City Methodist church when 36 years of age. He with Mrs. Denney transferred their membership to the Osceola Methodist church when they moved to Osceola 19 years ago. For more than 15 years he was teacher of the Men's Bible Class in the Sunday school.
In passing he will be missed in many ways. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, in the church a willing servant, in the community a wise counselor and helpful friend, to the world a faithful witness in the cause of righteousness and truth, and a good friend to all who knew him.
Besides his companion, his children he leaves to mourn his passing one brother, E. N. Denney of Clinton, several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
Funeral services were held at the Osceola Methodist church at one o'clock p.m. Friday. The Rev. T. A. Huffine, pastor, officiating and the Rev. L. M. Baldwin, friend of the family, assisting. Pall bearers were: C. E. Higgins, William Van Ormer, T. H. Whitaker, J. C. Barnett, A. L. Cooper and J. A. Luchsinger. Honorary pall and flower bearers were men of his Sunday school class and former students of his from the Osceola High School. Interment was in the Englewood cemetery, Clinton.
[poem]

TRIPLE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Monday, February 26, was the birthday of the Rev. W. S. Bayne, Dr. A. C. Ward and Mrs. Ross B. Fields. Since the Rev. Mr. Bayne first came to Osceola nineteen years ago it has been the custom of the three to celebrate together whenever possible...... It was the 82nd birthday for the Rev. Mr. Bayne and the 34th for Dr. Ward. As Mrs. Fields will leave Osceola Sunday to make her home in Kahoka her two old friends were especially pleased that the three could again be together for a triple celebration.
p.5: Mrs. Opal Hartley, who recently underwent a second major operation at Research hospital in Kansas City, was able to go to the home of her sister, Mrs. Louis Springstube, the first of the week and expects to be home in a few days. Her mother, Mrs. S. D. Fulton, is in Kansas City with her and brother. James spent Tuesday and Wednesday there.

Thursday, April 11, 1940
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The eight month old baby of Mr. and Mrs. Pearson Crabtree of Iconium was taken to Mercy hospital Friday. The child is in a critical condition with a brain disease and no hope was held for its recovery when last heard from Wednesday. Mr. Crabtree is a grandson of Mrs. Molly Crabtree of Osceola. Mrs. Crabtree is a niece of Mrs. Della Copenhaver.

Thursday, April 25, 1940
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HOGLES CREEK. Mrs. Caroline Dietz is slowly losing ground rounding out her 90 odd years as she passes into Life's Sunset. Her birthday will be in May. Two of her children cannot be at her bedside because of ill health. James Dietz the baby of the family and a World War veteran is ill over in New Jersey; Ida the third daughter, is in a hospital near her home in S. Dakota. Mrs. Dietz has a growth which is slowly closing around her bladder. She suffers greatly when not under the influence of medicine. Her friends and neighbors join with the family in helping make her last hours comfortable.
Our sympathy goes out to the family of Fount Crabtree at the early death of their beloved son Van Dee Crabtree has finished his life work at the age of 14. He was the baby son of a large family of children. A very large crowd attended the funeral at Iconium, Sunday.
Again we bow in sympathy with Young Otha Harper and family at the loss of their darling baby son. From birth, about six months ago this beautiful baby was idolized by family and friends. A fall from a little wagon while his parents were working in the garden a week ago, resulted in an abdominal rupture which caused his death. It was too late when he was taken to Mercy Hospital in Kansas City to save his life. The young parents grieve deeply.

Thursday, May 2, 1940
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MRS. W. C. DURNELL
Agnes John was born January 5, 1870 at Fairfield Mo. and went on to her reward at her home April 24, 1940 at the age of 70 years, 3 months and 18 days. She came to Elm Springs as an infant with her parents Mr. and Mrs. T. D. John and grew up there and attended that school. At the age of 14 years she moved with her parents to Weaubleau. At the age of 15 years, she was converted and joined the Baptist church of Weaubleau and lived a contented Christian life. She was married to W. C. Durnell December 15 [?], 1889 at Weaubleau and with whom she lived for more than half a century. To this union was born three children, one girl and two boys. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, one daughter, Mrs. Virby Taylor, Laramie, Wyoming, two sons, Ott Durnell of Osceola Mo. and Bill Durnell of Kansas City, Mo. One niece, who Mrs. Durnell raised with her own children and made her as one of her own, Mrs. Olive Hendrix of Nebraska, two grandchildren, Georgia Dale Durnell, and Eldon Taulor. Two great grandchildren, Joyce and Gary Taylor. One brother, Marian John of Weaubleau, 2 half sisters, Willie Kibendahl, Weaubleau and Chrisie Banks of Kansas City and one step sister, Nona Pritchard, Humansville.
Mrs. Durnell was a good wife, a loving mother and a friend to all who knew her. She was an industrious woman and will be missed by her many friends. She bore her long sickness without a murmur and was not afraid to die.

Thursday, May 16, 1940
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St. Clair County Personalities: Richard P. Crutchfield

Thursday, May 23, 1940
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JOHN YOUNG DAUGHERTY John Young Daugherty was born near Cole in Henry County, Mo. April 2, 1867 and lapssed away at the home of his daughter Mrs. Lottie Newby at Dodge City, Kansas Saturday May 12 at the age of 73 years, 1 month and 10 days. Mr. Daugherty had spent his younger years in this county, but about 30 years ago had moved with his family to Oklahoma, he had also lived several years in Texas and Western Kansas where he was engaged in the real estate and cattle commission business. Last October being called here by the illness and death of his brother Tom he made arrangements to come back and live on the old home place where he was raised. He returned here about March 1st. He was happily improving the old home place when he received word that his daughter was ill. He went back to Dodge City May 5 where death followed a few days later. His passing being very unexpected as he was only ill a few hours. Mr. Daugherty was married in 1886 to Miss Ella Gregg, who preceeded him in death 7 years ago. Besides his daughter, Mrs. Newby, he is survived by two sons, Walter of Bucklin, Kansas, Arthur of Stratford, Texas. One brother, Hugh of Romonia, Oklahoma, one half brother, Chester of Osceola, Mo. Besides many other relatives and a host of friends. The body was laid beside his companion at Bucklin Kansas.

STILES FAMILY REUNION. A reunion of the Stiles family was held on Sunday, May 19, 1940 at the home of Mr. and Mr. Thomas Stiles near Rainey in honor of his sister and husband, Mr. and Mrs. S. E. Eddy and their son Robert of Blaine, Washington who came last week to spend a few days. Mrs. Eddy spent her early childhood on the place now known as the Greely Burrow farm, where she was born and at the age of 8 or 9 years with her parents Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stiles moved to Fergus Falls, Minnesota this being her second trip back since leaving. It has been 24 years since her last visit here. Hence she finds much changes have taken place since then. Her husband Mr. Eddy is Inspector in charge of Immigration at Blaine Washington, their home. ....list of guests included Miss Olive June Coffey and Reign Coffee

Thursday, May 30, 1940
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MRS. SALLIE J. ALLEN Mrs. Sallie J. Hardy was born near Horse Cave in Hart county, Kentucky December 22, 1850 and departed this life in Collins, Mo. May 23, 1940 aged 89 years, 5 months and one day. With her parents Susan Owen and Burks Hardy she moved to Missouri in 1872 locating in Laclede county 5 years later moving to Hickory and 2 years later moving to St. Clair county where she has since made her home. Mrs. Allen was the second child born in a family of eleven children the only surviving members of whom are Mrs. Mary E. Meredith of Weaubleau and Willis D. Hardy of Collins. August 23, 1892 she was united in marriage with Wm. Allen and for a number of years following their marriage they made their home near the original site of Coon Creek Baptist church. After the death of her husband February 11, 1914, she made her home with her 3 brothers John, Luther and Willis of Collins. John passed away several years ago and she has since made her home with her two brothers, Luther and Willis Hardy. This family moved to Collins something more than two years ago, Luther passing away Oct. 17, 1938. Mrs. Allen was converted at Pleasant Hill Baptist church in Kentucky and placed her membership in the church when about 13 years of age. After locating near Collins she placed her membership in the Coon Creek Baptist church then located on Allen's Prairie the church later locating in Collins. She was a sincere consciencious Christian and loved to go to God's House and commune with his people. She was familiarly known by the entire community as 'aunt Sallie'. She was a great lover of things beautiful. She loved flowers, beautiful hymns, music and etc. and was especially fond of little children. She was loved alike by both old and young. Truly a good woman has gone to her reward.
Funeral services were held at the Baptist church in Collins May 24 and were conducted by Rev. Wm. Birdsong assisted by Rev. Harry Culbertson. Loving hands arranged the church especially for this occasion. Many beautiful flowers were in evidence. The body was laid to rest in the Allen cemetery.
--Card of Thanks...Willie Hardy, Mrs. Mary Meredith and family.

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HOGLES CREEK. Memorial Day at Iconium cemetery...."'Perhaps the oldest of these [old friends present] is Aunt Sis Crabtree who came down from Osceola once more to strew beautiful flowers on her beloved graves. Besides her companion Aunt Sis has a soldier son Phillip buried here. He paid the supreme sacrifice overseas during the World War. Perhaps the booming of guns and the dropping of bombs on Flanders Fields this May brings back to this aged mother added pangs of sorrow."' also "'Uncle Tom and Aunt Patsy Green....He is 88 years old."' "'Mr. and Mrs. Boy Green of Cassville, Arkansas....both natives of St. Clair county but have made their home near Mounds, Oklahoma for the past 40 years....moved to Arkansas..."'
There was a reunion of the late Jesse Boring family at Iconium Sunday. Mrs. Pat Crabtree, Mrs. Ella McCaslin and Mrs. Lizzie Boring were present. Lizzie Love Boring came to place flowers on the new grave of her husband. Several of her six sons were also present.
Floyd Suiter of Tacoma, Washington spent last week with his mother, Mrs. Sarah Suiter near Bentonville. The mother is in very bad health having had two recent falls. Floyd went to Tacoma several years ago. He started work in the basement of the Firestone Co. He stayed with the company 9 years working up to head manager. Then he started a progressive business of his own. On this trip he came by plane to Detroit, purchased a car and drove on to his beloved home. His mother was overjoyed to see him. He started home Thursday taking with him his old friend Mr. and Mrs. Fred Harvey of Warsaw for a visit.

Thursday, June 20, 1940
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GERSTER: A number of relatives gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Allen and enjoyed the day celebrating the birthday of Mrs. Allen which was June 9. At the noon hour a large dinner was served which all did justice to. Those having the pleasure of meeting together were Mr. and Mrs. Tab Nutt, son and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hull and son and daughter, Grandma Allen, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Allen, and Mr. and Mrs. Irvie Burns and son. The Next Sunday was Mr. Lee Allen's birthday and a large crowd gathered and spent another happy day in the Allen home with another beautiful dinner. Those enjoying the day were Mr. and Mrs. Bert Delozier and granddaughter; Mr. and Mrs. W. Delozier and son; Mr. and Mrs. John Shryer and son and daughter of Weaubleau; Mr. and Mrs. V. Hemphill of Osceola; Mr. and Mrs. Will Parker; Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Johnson of Hamilton, Kansas; Bro. Gaston and family; Mr. Irwin Meyers and family; J. W. Norton and family; Mr. Chas. Burns and family; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Allen; Mr. and Mrs. Harve Slocum; Mr. and Mrs. Perry Parks; Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn Myers; Mr. and Mrs. I. E. Burns and family and Mr. and Mrs. Ewing Allen and family.

Thursday, June 27, 1940
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TRAGIC ACCIDENT TAKES TOLL OF FIVE LIVES.
One of the most tragic accidents in the history of the county occurred Friday evening when the cribbing supporting one of the piers on the west end of the Brown's Ford bridge collapsed causing the suspension cable to give way, taking the lives of five people, three men and two boys. Three others were injured.
The dead were E. A. Bledsoe, who had charge of the repairing of the bridge, Claude Terry, 45, a workman, Robert Shaw, 18, another workman, George T. Randall, 16, a bystander and Lloyd Allen Snyder, 12, who fell in the river when the bridge collapsed. The injured were Lowell Smith, in the Appleton City hospital whose condition is reported as still critical, Edy Snyder in the Clinton hospital where his condition appears to be somewhat improved and Wayne Snyder a bystander who suffered a broken arm.
The cause of the collapse of the cribbing probably never will be known. It was one of those accidents that occur even when the best of care and precaution is taken. The heavy timber that had been used to build up around the old piers were strewn about like so many match sticks, and it was these timbers that caught the workmen with crushing force.
There is a report that someone heard something 'pop' and called Mr. Bledsoe's attention to it. It is said that he climbed up on the cribbing to investigate. Just then the whole thing gave away. Mr. Bledsoe was crushed in the falling debris, and the fact his watch was stopped at 3:31 indicated that was the time when the accident occurred.
All of the dead and injured were recovered shortly after the accident and removed from the wreckage with the exception of young Lloyd Allen Snyder. His body was not recovered until Monday evening when Bert Milam of Warsaw discovered the body floating down the river along with lumber and wreckage from the bridge. The distance from the scene of the accident to the point where the body was found is estimated to be about sixty-five miles. Mr. Milam notified Benton county authorities and Prosecuting Attorney Frank Brady telephoned Sheriff R. Homer Gerster, who immediately sent O. S. Hull, Jr., to have the body identified and return it to Osceola.
The Brown's Ford bridge was built about 25 years ago by Mr. Bledsoe and Ira Alspach. It is one of the quirks of fate that the bridge should claim the life of one of its builders while in the process of repairing the structure to strengthen it.
The old wooden piers that had been erected at the time the structure was built had become dangerous for traffic and it had been the plan to replace these piers with steel beams that would support the cables and the heavy weight of traffic upon the structure. For the past years the bridge had been condemned and not more than one car was allowed on the structure at a time, for fear that it might collapse.
The wooden cribbing was used around the old piers to enable the workmen to jack up the cables and get them slightly to one side, the after the wooden structures were removed the steel beam was inserted in place and the cable then lowered into position. It is believed that one of the jacks used in raising the cables had given away allowing the cable to fall back onto the cribbing before the workmen were ready to lower it into position. This threw the weight of the entire bridge structure suddenly upon the heavy timbers, around the piers and the cribbing crumbled under the impact.
What is to be done about the bridge is not yet known. The county court will hold its regular meeting next week, at which time, no doubt it will be determined what is to be done about the old structure and whether a new one will be erected to replace it or not.

Thursday, August 1, 1940
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RED ROCK: visitors with Mrs. Merl Crithfield...Mr. and Mrs. Jack Peterie and daughter of Tiffin, Violet Wasson, Mr. and Mrs. Orville Houck

THE DeLOZIER REUNION Approximately 500 descendants of Jeams DeLozier and their friends met at the American Legion park in Clinton Sunday for the 12th annual reunion. Besides a large number from all sections of Missouri, relatives were present from Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio, Kansas, California, Arkansas and Nebraska. It is probable that other states were represented also, but the register was not available. For the first time in several years all the living children of Jeams DeLozier were present.
There are now six of the twelve. These are H. F. DeLozier of Sapulpa, Okla.; Robert DeLozier of Weaubleau; J. W. DeLozier of Gerster; Mrs. Margaret Hawkins of Weaubleau; and Mrs. Lucy Hardin of Gerster. One of the older relatives present and a direct descendant was Asa M. Hartley, 86 of Teague, Texas, who is a grandson of the late Perrin DeLozier. Mr. Hartley was made chairman of the advertising committee this year.
At the election of officers Bert DeLozier of Weaubleau succeeded W. D. DeLozier of Blairstown as the president; W. E. Hawkins of Chandler, Oklahoma, was retained as Master of Ceremonies; and Mrs. Norma Bernard who has been secretary since the organization of the reunion association was re-elected secretary.
The Association was invited to meet with relatives in Ohio next year; but as this was impossible it was voted to go again to Weaubleau. One reason for this decision was that it is hoped that Mrs. G. J. DeLozier who is more than 90 and who has been bedfast several years may meet with them if they meet near her Kings Prairie home.

Thursday, August 15, 1940
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PERSONALITIES: WILLIAM WALLACE RITCHY
[interesting confederate Civil War letter]

Thursday, Oct. 3, 1940
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COBB REUNION, 1940 The fourth Cobb reunion was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Cobb near Branch, Mo., September 8, 1940. It was a beautiful fall day, warm and sunshiny.
About 25 cars were counted and from three to full capacity emerged from each. There were 81 or more persons present.
[skipped paragraph about food]
The two forefathers of the Cobb family, Alvis and Ed, were brothers and they reared their families on Hogles Creek in Benton county. Of the Alvis Cobb family there are three direct descendants living, John and Lank (G. B.) and their sister, Mrs. Fannie Cobb-Harvey-Neville. All three were present at this reunion. The Ed Cobb family has but one direct descendant, May Cobb Phillips of California, who was unable to be present.
[lots of names in about 8 more paragraphs]

Thursday, Oct. 17, 1940
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CALTON ELIJAH NUNN Calton Elijah Nunn, son of James and Elizabeth Nunn, was born near Silax, Mo., February 15, 1858 and departed this life at his home Oct. 1, 1940, age 82 years, 7 months and 16 days. When six years of age, with his parents he moved to Hickory county where he grew to young manhood. At the age of 28 he was converted and joined the Weaubleau Baptist church. On October 7, 1880 he was united in marriage with Miss Martha Yardner. To this union three children were born, Annie, who died at the ago of 18, whose memory he cherished so fondly down to the last days of his life, Mrs. C. R. Simms of Osceola and Standley of Collins.
In 1903 Mr. and Mrs. Nunn, with their family came to make their home on a farm north of Collins. Their door was always open to friends and neighbors and a cheery welcome at their fire side for all. In 1905 he united with the Coon Creek Baptist church of Collins and in the same year was ordained as deacon of the church and was faithful in attendance until his declining years.
Besides his companion, son and daughter he is survived by four grandchildren, Mrs. H. G. Hammonds, Iconium, Paul and Claudine Simms of Osceola and James D. Nunn of Collins, two great grand daughters, Jean and Leah Mae Hammonds, one brother, Walter U. Nunn of Weaubleau and three sisters, Mrs. Permelia Birdsong, Mrs. Mary M. Hardy and Mrs. Milton Lamb, all of Weaubleau.
[poem]
Funeral services were held at the Collins Baptist church, Rev. Wayne C. Rosecrans assisted by LeRoy Hildreth, conducting the services. Interment was in the Southers cemetery.

MRS. R. M. DAVIS Mary Priscilla Jane Nance, daughter of James H. and Cynthia Ann Nance, was born Nov. 3, 1856 at Mt. Vernon in Lawrence county and departed this life Oct. 3, 1940 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mildred Wright, at Lowry City. She was 83 years and 11 months of age.
At the age of eighteen months her mother died. At the age of 17 she was united in marriage to R. M. Davis, Oct. 9, 1874 at Mt. Vernon. Sometime after their marriage they moved to Henry county and then to St. Clair county. On December 11, 1919 her husband preceded her in death. Since then she has made her home among her children.
To this union were born seven children, three of whom died in infancy. The living children are Ota B. and W. R. Davis and Mrs. Mildred Wright of Lowry City and Mrs. C. D. Berry of Miller. The nine grandchildren include W. R. and Lee D. Wright and Mary Allene Davis of Lowry City, Carl, Wallace, Etteridge, Alice and Ora May Berry of Miller and Mrs. Luceal Williams of Brentwood, California. She also leaves seven great grandchildren, a half-sister, Mrs. Lydia Melton of Yakima, Washington, two nieces, Mrs. Elva Simpson of Seattle, Washington, and Miss Mildred Melton of Yakima and a nephew, Floyd Melton of Yakima, Wash., as well as other relatives and a host of staunch friends.
[2 more paragraphs + poem]

Thursday, Oct. 17, 1940
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COLLINS (?) The writer was delighted to have an old friend of twenty-odd years drop in one afternoon recently. The visitor was Mrs. Nannie Powell Morton of Claremore, Okla. She arrived at the home of her cousins, the Misses Adah and Josie Holland near Fairfield October 4. Mrs. Morton returned to Missouri chiefly to visit her mother's grave in the old Shiloh cemetery. Her parents both rest there together now since the little mother was placed there two years ago. Saturday morning Nannie Morton and Adah and Josie Holland took lunch and spent the day at Shiloh. Sunday they visited with the Ike Barclays at Fairfield. Tuesday Mrs. Morton visited Mr. and Mrs. Bill Morton and Mrs. Ella Chancellor at Quincy. From Tuesday night over Wednesday she spent with Mr. Morton's younger brother, Eli Morton and family at Knobnoster. Thursday found her back at Hollands and Friday they took dinner with her cousin, Edgar Hackler and wife. On Friday afternoon Mrs. Johnie Baugh, Mrs. Leslie McKinzie, Mrs. Morton and the Misses Holland drove up past the old deserted house that was Nannie Morton's girlhood home then she visited the Union school which she attended in her youth. She made a little talk to the children. It had been 38 years since she had been inside the old school house. Meda Dietz and Nannie Swopes were two of her former classmates. She called to see them both. Later in the afternoon they all visited the writer. (It is great to have old friends look you up. We taught school in Mrs. Morton's home district in Oklahoma twenty-seven years ago.)

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TURNER-ALLEN Floyd Allen, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Allen and Miss Eva June Turner daughter of Mrs. John Turner were united in marriage by the Rev. H. Sperry at his office in Clinton Friday afternoon October 11, 1940.
· LEWIS JACKSON Lewis Jackson, old time resident and respected citizen of Lowry City died at his home here Thursday, Oct. 3, 1940. Although he had been in failing health for several years, he had been critically ill only a short time. Mr. Jackson is a former sheriff of St. Clair county and was well known and liked. One son, Ray Jackson, lives in Lowry City and a sister, Mrs. Boyce Hawkins, lives near here. A daughter, Mrs. Black, of Kansas and her son, Eugene, of Excelsior Springs were in Lowry City Sunday for the funeral.

Thursday, Nov. 14, 1940
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FIRST QUOTA--ONE MAN beginning of list [Order No., Serial No., Name] of all men registered for draft in St. Clair county [245 of total 1273]

Thursday, Nov. 28, 1940
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THE WILL VAUGHN'S VISIT MISSOURI story about trip by Will and Locie Stevens-Vaughn from Gallatin Gateway, Montana, to St. Clair county and the various friends and relatives they visited en route.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 1940
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HENRY LEWIS The death of Henry Clay Lewis, member of a pioneer family, occurred at 10 o'clock at his home near Gerster Nov. 15. He was 88 years, 6 months and 12 days of age and although ill most of this fall, the indomitable spirit he displayed thru his last days was remarkable. Henry Clay Lewis was born in Putman county, Ind., May 3, 1852 being the last of a family of eleven children. In 1872 he came to St. Clair county with his parents, Mrs. Cizar and Mr. Samuel Lewis, in a covered wagon and settled on a farm two miles southwest of Collins. He came to the vicinity of Gerster later and spent the remainder of his life. He was married to Eliza Jane Potter west of Collins in 1879. She preceded him in death several years ago. To this union were born five children, Mrs. Alpha Butcher of Gerster, Frank Lewis of the home, Fred Lewis of Hutchinson, Kansas, Mrs. Nellie Harden of Clinton and Dolphin Lewis of Gerster. He is survived by a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren, also a host of friends and neighbors who regret his death. Funeral services were held at the Gerster church Nov. 17 at 2 o'clock by Rev. Frank Harden.... Burial was made near Collins by the side of his wife in the Allen cemetery.

STORK SHOWER. Mrs. Hubert DeLee was the honoree at the stork shower Friday evening given by Mrs. C. Roy Fields and Mrs. Roy Calvird at the home of Mrs. Fields.....

Thursday, Dec. 12, 1940
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VISTA Mr. and Mrs. Will Coffey and son Alex and wife, also their daughter Mrs. Eula Orr and daughter from Colorado came in last week for a visit in the home of his brother, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Coffey of this place and another brother, Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Coffey and a sister, Mrs. Thomas Stiles and Mr. Stiles of Rainey.
Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Coffey, who have been at their Appleton City home for several months, have returned to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stiles. Mr. Coffey is recovering from a stroke of paralysis which he suffered recently.