Newspaper Article
Miscellaneous News transcribed from
the Howell County Gazette, West Plains, Missouri
December 30, 1898 to December 3, 1908
Married – At the residence of the bride’s parents, Mr. J.K. Wellman and wife Miss Lenna to Mr. John McKamey, Rev. McDonald, officiating. After having partook of a bountiful wedding breakfast, the bride and groom departed on the morning train for their new home in Imboden, Ark. Miss Lenna is the talented daughter of one of West Plains best citizens. She has grown up and received her education in our city and is well liked by all. She is a most worthy companion in life’s battle to the young man, with whom she has joined herself. Mr. McKamey was formerly a resident of our city where he attended school, a most excellent young man. He is now associated with his father in the management of a large farm at Imboden. He is industrious, energetic and is in possession of the requirements essential to substantial success. We wish a long and successful voyage through life.
----------
Obituary – Died at her home near Chapin, Cora Lamons. Born January 1st, 1881 and died December 21st 1898. She joined the Christian church and was baptized in the fall of 1895, and has since remained a faithful servant of the Lord and a zealous follower of His cause.
Cora was a pleasant companion, a sincere friend, a loving sister and a devoted daughter. Possessing a pure and noble disposition she was universally loved. Her every thought was for the comfort and happiness of those she loved, and she made her home a heaven here below. Her mission was to help others – her motto Love. No greater tribute could be paid her memory than to say she never shrank from duty.
Acting under the Divine Influence of a soul filled with love for the good and the beautiful, she made friends with everyone. Cora will be sadly missed in the church and by her friends, but who can picture the sorrow in that home where she is known so well and loved so dearly.
Cora was adored by her brothers, idolized by her father and worshipped by her mother.
In her death the world loses a true Christian girl, and the home a devoted child, but God gathers in one of His precious gems destined to shine on through the endless ages of eternity. May God’s comforting love be with the family.
----------
Rev. Geo. Pease performed the wedding ceremony of John Elmer and Miss Mary White at the residence of Grandfather Whittaker in the north part of town this afternoon.
----------
The following marriage licenses have been granted: George J. Davis and Miss Dora Lee Davis, John Elmer and Miss Mary White, D.S. Dryer and Miss Elizzie Henry, E.K. Kellam and Miss Lena Seay.
----------
Mrs. Charles Thomas, of Peace Valley, died at her home this morning of strangulated hernia. She was 58 yearsof age. Funeral will be held tomorrow.
March 10, 1899
Beatrice Springer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Springer of our city died Feb. 28, a short time after midnight. Beatrice was about eight months old and a lovely baby. The funeral was conducted by Rev. Jas. Pine at the residence of Mr. Springer Feb. 28 at 3 p.m. The scene was sad and impressive. E.G. Davis, S.J. Smith and W.T. Dodson rendered several beautiful and appropriate selections of music. The parents have the sympathy of all in this the first death in their lovely home. (Mat. Grove Advertiser)
January 19, 1900
Murdered at Jail – Alf Henry, The Jailer, Overpowered And Killed And The Prisoners Escape – This city was thrown into a fever of excitement, about noon today, on the discovery of the dead body of Alf Henry in the county jail. All the prisoners were gone and the outside door of the jail was locked. Henry was evidently killed this morning about 8 o’clock when he entered the jail to feed the prisoners.
Just before noon, Mrs. Henry sent one of the children to the home of D.W. Reese, to ask him if he knew the whereabouts of Mr. Henry. He had left home as usual in the morning and had not returned as the usual time for dinner. Mr. Reese’s first thought was trouble at the jail. He immediately left home and went directly to the jail. The outside door was locked but the inner door was unlocked. Mr. Reese then called Josh Mahan to come and look in a window and he announced the prisoners gone and at the same time saw the feet of Mr. Henry protruding beyond the cage.
The sheriff was sent for and the jail entered and the body of Alf Henry found lying in a pool of blood at the foot of the stairway, leading to the upper cage. The head was mashed and bruised horribly and blood had run freely.
The report soon spread over the town and a crowd gathered at the jail door. Telegraph and telephone message were sent to all neighboring towns giving a description of the prisoners.
There were two prisoners in the jail, Ben Richardson of Ozark county, and Ed Grady from this county. Richardson is now under sentence to the penitentiary from Ozark county and was brought here a few days ago for safe keeping. Last week he escaped jail at Gainesville and was pursued and captured by the citizens of that place. He is a desperate man, an ex-convict and is the one who committed this dastardly deed. Grady was in on a minor charge.
They were seen leaving town going east about 8:30 this morning. Mrs. Russell reported seeing them pass her house and gave a correct description of the men.
The Governor and the county officials authorize a reward of $1000 for their arrest and return, dead or alive. A posse has been formed and men are now scouring the woods in all directions.
Intense excitement prevails and threats of lynching are freely made.
The body of Henry was removed to Dressler’s undertaking establishment where it will be properly dressed. A number of men were called to witness the position and condition of the body when found. Coroner Scanlon was telegraphed for and will arrive on the evening local.
The exact manner in which Henry met his death cannot be learned. It is supposed that he was beat with some blunt instrument. No shot wounds were found.
Later – Word has been received from South Fork that Richardson and Grady were at the store there and attempted to purchase cartridges for a pistol, supposed to be the one taken from Henry. A posse is headed in that direction and Bakersfield has been notified and is sending out a posse.
A further examination of the body shows the skull crushed by a blunt instrument.
Never before has the town been so excited and crowds are congregating on all street corners.
(The February 9, 1900, issue reports "Richardson Is Given Ninety-Nine Years For Murder Of Alfred Henry" and another article notes Grady plead guilty to murder in the second degree and sentenced to three and a half years in the penitentiary. Also noted that the penitentiary was under quarantine so it was unknown when the prisoners would be admitted.)
February 16, 1900
Dr. W.R. Jackson of Seymour, well known in West Plains, died yesterday afternoon of pneumonia. Dr. Jackson was a brother of Mrs. Ben Martin, of this place.
----------
Last night, at the home of the bride’s parents, J.S. Adams and wife, 3 miles west of town, William Harlan of Randolph county was married to Miss Dora Adams. The bride is one of Howell’s best young ladies and Mr. Harlan is to be congratulated upon his choice.
March 9, 1900
Married Last Night – Charles Collins, a marble cutter and Miss Florence Thompson were married last night about 10:30 p.m. by Judge Haydon. Some little trouble was encountered by the interested parties in securing the license, all because of the anger of a brother. He was finally prevailed upon to keep cool, present no fire arms and allow the ceremony to pass by peaceably.
----------
Obituary – Mrs. Mary C. Robinson, wife of J. Robinson, the present postmaster at White Church, died at her home February 9, 1900, age 36 years. She had long been a faithful member of the Southern Methodist church. She was the mother of seven children, three of which had preceded her to the glory land. The life of Sister Robinson had been one of singular faithfulness and fidelity to her church and her God. On her death bed she remarked, "that it was not hard to die when she was prepared to go, there is no cloud." Her body was laid to rest in New Hope cemetery.
----------
A son of P.C. Williams, formerly of West Plains, now living a few miles south of here, died very suddenly on Saturday and was buried on Sunday.
May 18, 1900
P.M. Peace died at his home near Alton Monday after a lingering illness. Mr. Peace was once a citizen of Howell county, Peace Valley being named after his father. He was a good citizen.
April 12, 1901
The will of Robt. King, deceased, has been filed for probate in Judge Haydon’s court. Wm. R. King, of Bly, who was named in the will as executor, filed his bond for $4,000 which was approved. The property consists of a farm in this county, about $2,000 in personal property and some land in Nebraska.
April 27, 1901
Death of James M. Holt – James M. Holt died at his home in this city this morning at 8 o’clock, of Bright’s disease, from which he had been suffering for the past two years.
Deceased came to West Plains from Butler, Mo., about seven years ago, and for a short time worked in the drug store of Dr. J.F. Trimble. He then entered the employ of Dr. J.W. Martin as prescription clerk in the Red Apple Drug Store, and has been an honest and faithful employee of this firm up to the time of his death.
About five years ago he was married to Ora, oldest daughter of C.T. Bolin and wife. Two children blessed their union, a boy and a girl. Among the other relatives of deceased are Dr. A.T. Holt, a prominent physician of Parkville, Mo., who is a brother, and Mrs. Freeland, a sister, residing at Platte City.
Deceased was a member of the Modern Woodmen, in which order he had his life insured for $3,000. He also carried $2,000 in the New York Life Insurance Company. The Modern Woodmen will have charge of the funeral services, which will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock.
June 21, 1901
Wm. H. Murrell, of Willow Springs, and Miss Minnie Farmer, of Cordz, were granted a license to marry by Recorder Hollenbeck today.
August 2, 1901
Married, near Siloam Springs. July 27, G.E. Hobbs, of Mammoth Springs, to Mrs. E.R. Eckley, lately from Illinois. Mr. Hobbs come to this place an invalid last May, and having recovered his health and taken unto himself a wife here, ought certainly to think well of Siloam.
August 16, 1901
The infant child of R.M. Hornidy and wife died yesterday and was buried today. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement.
----------
Died In Memphis – Miss Pearl Billman, Accidentally Shot By Her Sister at Mammoth Spring, is Dead – Miss Pearl Billman, who was accidentally shot by her sister, Ruth Billman, at Mammoth Spring, on the night of July 29th, died Wednesday evening at 7 o’clock at St. Joseph’s hospital in Memphis, Tenn., where she was taken for treatment.
The accident which directly resulted in the death of the young lady was a most peculiar one. She and her sister, Ruth, who is cashier of the Bank of Mammoth Spring, were keeping house for their married sister, who was absent on a visit. During the night they were awaken by the clicking of the latch on the front gate and a few minutes later heard footsteps on the porch.
Groping in the dark, for they feared to strike a match, Miss Ruth found a revolver which was in a bureau drawer. She pointed the weapon in the direction from which the noise came and pulled the trigger. The bullet instead of hitting the midnight intruder struck her sister Pearl.
Medical aid was at once summoned and everything that skillful hands could do was done for the sufferer. She was taken to Memphis, and the best surgeons there treated her. Peritensis and meningitis, resulting from the wound, was the immediate cause of death. The remains were shipped to Worcester, Ohio, for interment.
----------
Forced To Marry – Indignant Father Chases Man To Black Rock – An indignant father arrived in this city Sunday night and patently awaited the opening of the recorder’s office that a license might be procured and his daughter wedded to a young man with whom she had been keeping company for some time.
W.F. Hines, the young man in the case, lives at Mt. View. The young lady is a daughter of Simpson Thomas, living at the same place. A few weeks ago Hines suddenly left and until last Wednesday nothing was heard of him. Simpson finally heard that Hines was working near Black Rock.
Accompanied by his daughter, Simpson left Mt. View for Black Rock. A brother of Hines also went on the same train, but Simpson knew nothing of it until he r4eached his destination. With the assistance of Sheriff McCall, of Lawrence county, Hines was finally located. The indignant father and the entire party came to this city last night.
After a license was procured Rev. John G.W. Richardson pronounced the words which made W.F. Hines and Mollie Thomas man and wife. They left this evening for Mt. View.
September 6, 1901
Qualified Teachers – Those Who Passed the Examinations And Received Certificates – Mrs. Carrie Phelps, county superintendent of schools, gives out the following list of teachers, who successfully passed the examinations last week and were given certificates entitling them to teach:
- J.E. Alsup – Willow Springs;
- Ruth Bingham - Moody;
- Fannie Boak – Moody;
- J.A. Boak – Moody;
- S.E. Bradshaw – Pomona;
- Dona Brown – West Plains;
- Jessie Burgess – West Plains;
- Catherine Campbell – Willow Springs;
- Sallie Carter – West Plains;
- Mrs. J.F. Chrisman – Brandsville;
- S.M. Cotter – Bakersfield;
- J.A. Dail – Burnham;
- Phoebe Davidson – West Plains;
- Mollie Derrick – Bakersfield;
- Madge Dinsmore – West Plains;
- _?. H. Ellott – Bly;
- Tina Elliott – Bly;
- R.M. Epps – Trask;
- Mrs. Mamie Furgeson – Willow Springs;
- Sarah V. Grey – Willow Springs;
- Bertha Handy – Elk Creek;
- Stella Harris – West Plains;
- O.T.A Heinrich – Moody;
- Peter Hess – Hutton Valley;
- Eila Hoey – West Plains;
- Zita Hoey – West Plains;
- J.W. House – Grimmell;
- Carrie Hudson – Willow Springs;
- Mary Jarred – Cureall;
- W.C. Johnson – Bakersfield;
- H.D. Leach – Bloomfield;
- C.S. Lamons – Birch Tree;
- E.A. Lenox – Mt. View;
- Maude Lovan – Willow Springs;
- P.J. Maw – Trask;
- Mrs. E.B. McCann – Cull;
- F.M. McKelvy – Moody;
- Nellie McManemin – West Plains;
- Maude McMillan – Cordz;
- W.C. McMillan – Cordz;
- N.L. McMurty – Hutton Valley;
- Addie Medsker – Leo;
- E.M. Mellon – West Plains;
- G.W. Miller – Amy;
- Walter Morgan – Trask;
- T.H. Morris – Weatherill;
- Allie Norman – Cureall;
- Sarah Norman – Cureall;
- Noel Ramsey – Pottersville;
- Lizzie Reece – Cobalt;
- Hannah Reece – Cobalt;
- May Richardson – West Plains;
- Pierre Royce – West Plains;
- B.C. Scoggin – Pottersville;
- Leona Sharp – West Plains;
- Monroe Shewbart – West Plains;
- Ira Smith – Mt. View;
- Hester Sneed – Cottbus;
- Weston C. Summer – Cureall;
- T.D. Taylor – West Plains;
- Beatrice Thomas – West Plains;
- Julia Thomas – Willow Springs;
- Anna Vaughan – Mt. View;
- Wm. Warner – Moody;
- Clemina Winningham – Mt. View;
- Wash. J. Wright – Bly;
- Robert S. Yeager – Burnham;
- Inez Butcher – West Plains – H.O. Newman – Lanton.
- ----------
October 18, 1901
Wm. J. Hannah, of Porterville, Ill., and Miss Amanda E. Eblen, of Grimmett, were married in the recorder’s office in this city late Saturday evening by Elder W.P. Hale. The happy couple left on the midnight train for the home of the groom, where they will reside in the future.
----------
Miss Effie Hale Married – Miss Effie Hale, a former resident of this city, and daughter of Elder W.P. Hale, the well known Christian minister, was married at Independence, Mo., on September 26th, to R.P. Stoner, a popular attorney of Kansas City. For some time Miss Hale has been teaching to a kindergarten school at Kansas City and while engaged to this work met her future husband. The happy couple are not on a wedding tour of the East, where Mr. Stoner will also attend to business connected with the estate of A.P. Stewart, a former Kansas City capitalist. In writing to her parents from New York, Mrs. Stoner says: "At Buffalo we visited the Milburn, residence where President McKinley passed away. Although the place was guarded by a fierce looking policeman, we secured as souvenirs some leaves from a buckeye tree in the yard. The spot in the exposition grounds where the martyred president was killed is now fenced in.
In New York we visited the post office, saw the big sky scraper newspaper buildings, brushed up against the millionaires of Wall street, visited old Trinity church, heard the chimes and examined the grave yard and found the graves of Alexander Hamilton and other eminent worthies. This is the Westminister Abbey of New York. We also visited the new sub-treasury building, which is the site of the old Federal Hall, where Washington took the official oath as first president of the United States.
On our way to the East we saw the world renowned ‘Immortal J.N.’ at St. Louis. He is a tall, rugged, rough looking old man, with long shaggy gray locks hanging down his shoulders. Short pants, falling to make connections with his shoe tops, reveal the fact that socks are an unknown quantity to him."
In concluding her letter Mrs. Stoner sends her best regards to her West Plains friends and they _____
_____ wish her much happiness during her married life. Mr. and Mrs. Stoner will make Kansas City their future home.
December 6, 1901
Marriage licenses have been granted to Chas. W. Cox and Taney Cable, both of Willow Springs; R.H. Beck of Olden, and Dartha B. Ingram, of Grimmett.
December 27, 1901
Death of Mrs. J.F. Hale – Died, at the home of her sister, Mrs. Matilda Comer, at Gainesville, Saturday morning at 6 o’clock, Martha J. beloved wife of Judge J.F. Hale, after a lingering illness. The remains were brought to this place Sunday for interment in the city cemetery. Funeral services were conducted at the family residence Monday afternoon, at 3 o’clock, after which burial was at Oak Grove cemetery.
Martha J. Hale was born in Monroe county, Ky., Feb 21, 1851. She was the daughter of Patterson and Hannah Conkin, and was 18 years old when her parents removed to this country from their old Kentucky home. She was married to J.F. Hale, March 29, 1874, and departed this life Dec. 21, 1901.
She united with the Christian church when but 15 years old, and ever afterward remained true to her religious vows and always took a personal interest in the welfare of the church. She was one of the first to put her membership in the church at West Plains, more than twenty years ago.
The deceased leaves a husband and three children to mourn her departure. In her social life Mrs. Hale was dearly loved by all who knew her, and in her domestic relations her life was very beautiful indeed, for no one could be more devoted to loved ones than was Mrs. Hale to those who were of her household.
Her Christian faith sustained her to the last, and she departed this life with a beautiful and cheering hope of a happy life beyond.
February 7, 1902
Mrs. A.M. Kelley died at her home in the west part of town last evening after a lingering illness of several weeks. She and her sister and little daughter have been living in this place for some time, earning a livelihood by taking in washing and sewing. They are in poor circumstances and the aid society of the Christian church have been assisting them. The funeral was conducted today and the remains laid to rest in Oak Grove cemetery.
July 25, 1902
A.H. Livingston received a telegram today announcing the death of his father, "Uncle" Tommy Livingston, an old-time resident of this city, at the home of his son, Henry Livingston, at Fayetteville, Ark., this morning. He was 77 years old and for 33 years resided in Howell county. Every old resident will remember "Uncle" Tommy, who was known all over this section as an old hunter and gunsmith. They will all regret to learn of his death, and sympathize with the bereaved relatives.
August 22, 1902
Mrs. Emily C. Otterson, of Springfield, and well known in West Plains, was married in Alton, Ill., Wednesday to Robert C. Carr, superintendent of the Mississippi Valley Automobile Company at St. Louis. Their courtship was of short duration and was conducted largely on the seat of an automobile "built for two." The bride is wealthy and belongs to one of the proudest families in Springfield. Two years ago she married Ben Bogy, a St. Louis dry goods salesman, who often visits West Plains. After a year of married life she was divorced from Mr. Bogy. She is handsome and her greatest fad was to drive fast horses in tandem style.
November 12, 1903
Mrs. W.P. Hale,, Dead – Evalyn Hale, wife of Rev. W.P. Hale, of Mountain Grove, died Monday in Brooklyn, New York, where she went a week ago in answer to a telegram announcing the serious illness of her daughter. Pn the journey Mrs. Hale became ill and her death resulted after a brief illness. The remains were brought to Mountain Grove for interment. When Rev. Hale first learned of the illness of his wife he was told that the case was not serious, but since then her condition became worse and there was no relief. For a number of hears Rev. and Mrs. Hale resided in West Plains. Later they moved to Ozark county, where they lived on a farm near Udall, on North Fork. Mrs. Hale had many friends in this city and elsewhere who will deeply regret to learn of her sudden demise. In their bereavement Rev. Hale and his daughter, together with the other relatives, have the sympathies of the entire public.
January 3, 1904
Judge Hall Dead – He Passed Away Monday Night In This City – His lifeless Body Found in Bed by His Son, Who Wanted to Awaken Him – After an illness that gradually grew critical, and which extended over a period of several years, Judge John F. Hale, one of the best known and most highly respected citizens of West Plains and Southern Missouri, passed away Monday night. It is not known at what hour he died, for Tuesday morning , his son, Roy Hale, upon going into his father’s room, found him dead in the bed. Some time during the night he passed away and from surroundings the end was a peaceful one.
There are few men in Southern Missouri who are better known and held in higher esteem than was Judge Hale. He was an honest, upright and sober man, a Christian in every sense of the word. In his every day life he was a loving father, a sympathetic friend to those in trouble and for everyone he had only kind words. His death will be mourned by a large circle of friends.
John F. Hale was born in Sparta, Tenn., September 5, 1841. He moved with his parents from that place to McLeansboro, Ill., when quite a small boy and there he received his education. In 1870 he moved to Marshfield, Mo. and there engaged in the practice of law. He often went to Douglas and Ozark counties, which were included in the circuit in which Marshfield was located.
About the year 1874 Judge Hale located in Gainesville. He was married there the same year to Miss Martha J. Conkin, a member of one of the oldest and most prominent families of this county. After practicing law in Gainesville and the surrounding country for a number of years, Judge Hale concluded to move to the railroad, and in 1884, he located at West Plains.
Two years later Judge Hale was nominated by the Republican party as their candidate for circuit judge in the Twentieth judicial circuit. At the time there was much opposition to the candidacy of the regular Democratic nominee, Colonel J.H. Maxey. The circuit was strongly Democratic but the dissatisfaction which existed and the friendship shown to Judge Hale by many prominent and influential Democrats, resulted in his election at the polls. He took his seat on the bench the following year. By a strange coincidence, on the first day Judge Hale held court, in February 1887, his predecessor, the venerable Judge John R. Woodside, was gathered to his fathers (as written)
Two years after Judge Hale went on the bench he began showing signs of failing health. Physicians pronounced his ailment stomach trouble. He tried many remedies, but secured little relief. Owing to his illness he was unable to transact his official duties at various times, and a special act of the legislature was required in order that a special judge could be appointed to serve in the circuit. This was accordingly done and Governor Francis appointed W.N. Evans to serve when Judge Hale was unable to act. The Twentieth judicial circuit then presented the unusual conditions of having two circuit judges holding office at the same time.
At the expiration of his term as circuit judge, Judge Hale went to other climates in the hopes that a change might prove beneficial. He got some relief and returned to West Plains. After a time he improved and again took up the practice of law, attending to such cases as he physical condition would permit. But the disease with which he was afflicted gradually acquired a firmer hold upon his system. At times he would feel much improved and again his condition would be alarming. Several days before the end came he remarked that he was feeling much better than heretofore.
Judge Hale was a faithful member of the Christian church and was connected with one secret order, the Ancient Order United Workmen. The funeral services were held at the family residence on South Main street Wednesday afternoon, being conducted by Rev. Geo. A. Pease, who has been a faithful friend of the deceased since he began his residence in Southern Missouri. The services at the grave were conducted by the A.O.U.W. order, the members of which attended the funeral in a body. Interment was in Oak Grove cemetery, the remains being laid to rest besides those of his late wife, who died two years ago.
Three children, Miss Blanche Hale, Roy Hale and Miss Hettie Hale, together with three brothers and two sisters, survive the deceased. Rev. W.P. Hale, a brother residing at Mountain Grove, was unable to attend the funeral, being ill. His other brothers, Dr. H.E. Hale of Bell Prairie, Ill., and L.J. Hale, of McLeansboro, Ill., were notified of the sad death, but could not make the journey to this city. To the bereaved children and brothers and sisters a sympathetic public extends condolences.
----------
An Elopement – David G. Riddle, a brakeman on the local freight, whose run is from Thayer to Willow Springs and return, eloped last Friday with Miss Bertha Owens, a popular young Thayer lady. The couple came to this city from Thayer on the afternoon train, going to the Arcade Hotel. Later they procured a marriage license of Recorder Brooks and called in Probate Judge Dawes, who performed the marriage ceremony in the parlor of the Arcade Hotel. The happy young couple left on the first east bound train for their future home in Thayer.
September 22, 1904
In Memoriam – Elmer Henry was born March 2, 1887, near White Church, and died September 14, 1904, at the age of 17 years, 6 months and 12 days. Elmer lived with his parents at Thomasville, then moved to Peace Valley, wherehis mother died. Afterwards his father sold out and moved to Dry Creek, where Elmer died. His remains were laid to rest in New Hope cemetery. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Myers, and many kind friends were present to pay their last tribute of respect. In the death of Elmer Henry, Dry Creek loses one of its brightest lights, the father an obedient and dutiful son, the brother and three sisters a loving and kind brother. Though young, he was a man ever true to his friends. The Gardener asks who plucked the flower, and the answer came, the Master, and the Gardner held his peace. So let us hold our peace and submit to him who does all things well. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved.
----------
Elmer Henry, son of D.C. Henry, died at his home near Olden of typhoid fever. He was born at Thomasville, March 2, 1187, died September 14, 1904. He resided at this place until a few years ago, when his parents moved to Peace Valley. He leaves a father, brother and three half sisters to mourn his death. Elmer was a bright boy and liked by all who knew him. The remains were laid to rest in New Hope cemetery at Peace Valley. Many friends extend their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved ones.
October 8, 1904
A Mystery Solved – Te Killing of Walter Poe In Kansas – He Was Shot to Death By the Man Who Later Robbed a Springfield Gambling House – The mystery surrounding the disappearance of Walter Poe, of Ozark county, who went to the Kansas wheat fields last July, has been solved at last. It is now definitely known that it was Poe who was murdered at Bridgeport, Kansas, July 18th, and the murderer is the same man who robbed a gambling house in Springfield two weeks ago and who held up two poker players in West Plains a short time previous and compelled them to hand over all their cash.
According to information that has been gathered by the Springfield police, Poe and a score of other young men were shipped from that place by the Speer Employment Agency for Western Kansas. In the party was a man who had a dark complexion and who registered as Roy Brown.
Poe was with this man and at Bridgeport, both got out of a box car in which they had been riding and walked down the track. The train crew heard a shot soon afterwards and as the freight train pulled out the "dark man" ran up alone and with a gun in his hand. The slip found on the dead man’s body the next day had the name of the Speer Employment Agency upon it. This caused much excitement in Springfield, and the photograph of the dead man was for a time believed to be that of a man residing in that vicinity, but this was found to be untrue when the man turned up. Of the party shipped by the agency Poe is the only one who has not been accounted for.
(a portion of this article is missing but picks up again, as follows)…
Walter Poe, the Ozark county lad whom Martin is charged with murdering, is a son of Mrs. Poe, a widow residing near Udall, on North Fork. The boy was a hard working lad, about 19 years old, and of much assistance to his mother. He came to West Plains with a freighter, accompanied by several farmer boys. Some of them went east to the big peach ordhards in search of work, while Poe left for Springfield in order to ship to the Kansas wheat fields. This is the last heard of him and as this is the only one of the party shipped out from Springfield who has not been accounted for it is believed that he met death at the hands of the hold-up man who so tragically ended his career by falling in front of a moving freight train.
----------
The Oldest Inhabitant – There was in West Plains last Saturday the oldest resident of the Ozark region. His name is Thomas Garl and according to his own statement he is 107 years of age. Mr. Garl was accompanied by his wife, who is 92 years old.
The old couple were both born and raised in Ozark county. Mr. Garl’s father came to Southern Missouri from Tennessee and settled on North Fork, near Dora. There Thomas Garl was born and has since resided. He has never been out of the state of Missouri, except to hunt, fish or drive cattle.
30 November 1905
Mrs. Ora Holt and Wm. Smith were united in marriage at the home of the bride in the Fair Grounds addition last Friday evening, the Rev. L.Z. Burr officiating. The bride was born in West Plains, being the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C.T. Bolin and has a host of friends. Mr. Smith, the groom, is a brakeman on the Frisco out of Thayer. He resided for a number of years in West Plains and is better known as a brother of Ownsby Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Smith will make their home in Thayer in a short time.
December 28, 1905
Obituary – I.F. Donaldson, a former prominent and popular citizen of Dunklin county, died at West Plains, December 1, 1905, surrounded by his family and by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law D.B. Pankey and, wife, of Kennett. The remains were interred at West Plains.
Fielding Donaldson, as he was affectionately known, was born in Gibson county, Tenn., August 31, 1847/ His father was Humphrey Donaldson. He had two brothers, Robert N. and John R., the latter a citizen of Salem township. His sisters married Thos. Neel, W.P. Nicholas, W.M.Harkey, and R.H. Stanfield, respectively.
He came to Dunklin county with his father in 1856, located on Horse Island. He lived here until 1900, when he moved with his family to West Plains, in the search of better health, he having been a sufferer for several years.
In April 1885 (the year is not clear), he was married to Miss P.M. Rayburn, of Clarkton, daughter of Major Rayburn, and to this union 6 children were born, these being Thos. H., Davis R., Maggie and Josie Aline, yet living, and Mable and Isham, now dead.
He was engaged in farming and merchandising, most of his life. He was twice constable of Clay and Buffalo township and was twice sheriff and collector of Dunklin county. He enlisted in the Confederate army, under Birthright, in February, 1865, but did not serve long. He was a member of the I.O.O.F. order and of the Presbyterian church.
His father settled and cleared part of the Kit Johnson, Press Austin, Irve Scott and Lee Palmer farms, near Senath; also a farm occupied by W.A. Bird. I.F. Donaldson also assisted in opening many of the roads in the country, notably the one from Shady Grove west, the one across Buffalo near the David Rice place. He well remembered when there were but three houses on Varner river, these being Brewer’s land, the old Laiden place and the one now owned by L.P.Tatum.
Mr. Donaldson was a just, fearless man, and none ever lived who possessed more real courage.
He left valuable land interests in this county which he still claimed as his home.
----------
Orval, the 5-year old son of Rus Marcum and wife, died Christmas day of what is believed to have been ptomaine poison.
----------
Cupid’s Capers – During the holidahs the recorder is usually kept very busy issuing marriage licnse and this year who no exception to the rule. Recorder Brooks and his forces of deputies issued a large number during the week, and following are the happy couples:
David E. Myers Willow Springs Agnes M. Huff Willow Springs
Walter L. Moffitt Imboden, Ark. Virginia Edmonston Pomona
Robert P. Dixon Jonesboro Mrs. Martha Strauble West Plains
C.C. Padgett Mt. View Addie Penninger Mt. View
Nathan Evans Lanton Bertha Driver Lanton
Chas. A. Myers St. Louis Jesse Lane Willow Springs
Alexander W. Mahan West Plains Louisa Seay West Plains
Wm. R. Webb Moody Essie Newberry Moody
Walter Tyson Cobalt Eva Chowning Cobalt
Louis J. Crider Crider Attie Zumwait Pottersville
Frank Kennedy Black Rock Elizabeth Tackett West Plains
Wm. L. Pierce White Church Sarah Conner Cobalt
J.R. Ainsworth Kansas City Anna Brandon Willow Springs
Frank Cole West Plains Elza Stevens West Plains
Chas. P. White Ojibway, Mo. Margaret E. Bean West Plains
Ben Hollingshad West Plains Lydia M. Chowning Cobalt
Wm. T. Ingold West Plains Allie V. Boles West Plains
Wm. Endecott Pottersville Mae Farmer West Plains
January 30, 1908
Married at County Farm – Another young lady has taken advantage of the privilege a lady enjoys during leap year. This young lady was a visitor at the county farm on Saturday afternoon. She came back on Sunday night and there met her fate.
At a quarter of seven she met the man and seven minutes to seven proposed to him. He did not accept without considerable coaxing by the young lady and other parties. He accepted at ten minutes after seven. As Mr. D.L. Stottemyer is a minister there was no use of putting off the wedding. The happy couple was Mr. William Mitchell and Miss Johanna Thieme.
Mr. Mitchell is a good looking young man. He is not so prosperous though, as he has been at the county farm; but it is of no consequence, as the bride says she has a good farm and will furnish funds for both. The bride is a handsome young lade whose home is in West Plains. Mr. Granville Ren___ and Miss Mable Cotton acted as best man and bridesmaid. Mrs. D.L. Stottlemyer and King John___ were the witnesses. We wish Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell a long married life of happiness with no sorrow, but much joy.
----------
Wedding At Mtn. View – Two popular Howell county young people were wedded at Mtn. View today when Chas. L. Chowning and Miss Clara M. Reynolds were united in marriage by the Rev. J.N. Glick, pastor of the Presbyterian church of that town. The wedding took place at the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. G.R. Reynolds, at Mountain View, and soon after the ceremony the happy couple left on the Current River train for Memphis, Tenn., to spend their honeymoon.
Mr. Chowning has for a number of years been engaged in business at Mountain View, being a partner in the firm of Geo. L. Garoutte & Co. He recently retired from the firm and on his return will again engage in the mercantile business at Mountain View. He is a courteous and clever gentleman with a host of warm friends. His bride formerly was a teacher, but for several years has been engaged in the millinery business at Mountain View. By her gracious manners and loving disposition she has endeared herself to a host of friends, all of whom extend their ______ congratulations. Mr. and Mrs. Chowning will be at home in Mountain View after February 15th.
----------
February 20, 1908
The stork has made glad the heart of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Click. The little token of love bestowed was in the image of a bouncing baby boy.
March 19, 1908
Miss Ruth Dickinson, of this city and Glen Gardner recently of Labette, Kansas, were married at the home of the bride’s brother, J.G. Dickinson, on Grace Avenue last Friday evening. Elder O.N. Barnett performed the ceremony in the presence of the relatives and a few personal friends of the happy young couple. Mr. and Mrs. Gardner will make West Plains their future home.
----------
Tula Pease, aged 9 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Pease, died at their home at Richville, Douglas county, last Friday. The family formerly resided in this city and have many friends who will be sorry to learn of their bereavement.
April 9, 1908
Popular Couple Wedded – A quiet home wedding was that of Mr. W.M. Hill and Miss Lizzie Bochm, which took place on Tuesday evening at 8 o’clock at the home of Dr. R.S. Spears on West Main street. The relatives and several personal friends of the happy couple witnessed the impressive ceremony, which was performed by Rev. J.H. Glanville, of the First Presbyterian church. Light refreshments were served after the bride and groom had been showered with congratulations.
Mr. Hill is an industrious business man who has been with the Hill-Whitmire Mercantile Company for more than fifteen years. His friends are numbered by the score and to them he is known by the familiar name of Walt Hill. He has been a resident of West Plains for many years and is widely known throughout Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas.
The bride is a beautiful and accomplished young lady, and for more than seven years has resided in this city, making her home with Dr Spears and being engaged in the true Christian work of a trained nurse. She is a lady of sweet disposition and winning ways and in securing such a bride Mr. Hill is indeed fortunate. Mr. and Mrs. Hill have gone to housekeeping in their home on Missouri avenue which has been furnished for them in advance of the joyous union.
June 4, 1908
Death of Mrs. B.T. Henry – Mrs. Anna Henry, wife of B.T. Henry, died at her home in this city Sundy afternoon after a long illness. For several years she had been suffering with cancer and everything possible was done to relieve her, eminent specialists being consulted and treatment taken in a Kansas City hospital, but all of no avail.
Mrs. Henry was a member of the M.E. church, South, and belonged to the Royal Neighbors and the Knights and Ladies of Security orders, which took part in the funeral services. Four brothers and three sisters mourn her death. They are County Clerk J.T. Halsell, of this city; Geo. E. Halsell, Sand Point, Idaho; Oscar Halsell, Brandsville; B.M. Halsell, Oakland Was.; Mrs. C.N. Clem, Brandsville; Mrs. Ollie Brooks, Fort Worth, Texas; Mrs. George Knowlton, Clovis, New Mexico. Mrs. Henry also leaves a husband and five children, the youngest five years of age.
The funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock, being conducted by Rev. J.H. Glanville at the First Presbyterian church in the absence of Rev. Clark, pastor of the church of which the deceased had always been a faithful member. After the last sad funeral rites by the orders of which she was a member the remains were interred in Oak Grove cemetery in the presence of a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends.
December 3, 1908
Wm. Hale, of Burnham, and Miss Edna White, of Cordz, were quietly married Sunday evening Nov. 22, at the home of the bride’s mother, Mrs. C.L. White at Cordz in the presence of a few friends and relatives. They will make their home near Omia, Douglas county.
----------
A Christmas Disturber – Ike Smith, a young man of Mountain View, must languish in the county jail until the birds sing their sweet songs in the spring just because he imbided too freely of a certain brand of liquor that has put Mountain View on the map. Christmas eve there were two celebrations at the event at Mountain View, one at the Methodist church, the other at the Presbyterian church. Ike went to the Methodist tree first, and when he became boisterous someone threw him out. Then he visited the Presbyterian church, and Squire Hoover was there. The Justice took charge of Ike when the latter reached the hilarious stage. He promptly convened court and in a few minutes had Ike down for a fine of $50 and sixty days in jail. An officer brought the now duly sober youth to the county seat and lodged him in the county bastile.