THE JACOB AND LOUISA DEEMS FAMILY *** PIONEERS OF THE SOIL AND THE CHURCH. Complied by a daughter of Emma J. Deems Graham TRANSCRIBED July 1999 FROM: copy provided to Margaret A.(Connelly) Karol, gr. gr. granddaughter of Jacob Jennings Deems and Louisa Arnold By Elizabeth Adelaide Merchant Jones (11/81), great granddaughter of Jacob Jennings Deems and Louisa Arnold Complied by Clara Graham Jeambey, granddaughter of Jacob Jennings Deems and Louisa Arnold A Adams, Tom, 17 Arnold, John, 4 B Baker, W. A., 17 Barth, Paul, 17 Barton, Catherine, 1, 3, 12, 19 Bickle, J. C., 11, 16 Bickle, Mrs., 11 Bishop, Chloe, 4 Blue, Amanda Deems, 1, 12, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 24, 27 Blue, George Beswick, 13, 25, 26, 27 Bouska, Jerrine, 17 Bowlby, C. J., 16 Bryan, William J., 21, 22 C Crow, Samuel, 19 Curl, Ark, 26 Curl, Irma, 26 Curl, Lillian, 26 Curl, May, 26 Curl, Mrs., 12 Curl, Ray, 26 Curl, Reef, 26 D Deems, Adam, 19 Deems, Amanda, 1, 3, 5, 18, 25, 26 Deems, Anna Deborah, 1, 3 Deems, Annie D., 5 Deems, Carolyn, 27 Deems, Carrie G., 25 Deems, Carrie L., 1, 5, 13 Deems, Carterine "Artie", 13 Deems, Catherine, 19 Deems, Catherine "Artie", 1, 5, 13 Deems, Catherine "Atrie", 13 Deems, Catherine, "Artie", 25 Deems, Deborah, 3, 19, 22 Deems, Debra Jennings, 4 Deems, Elisa J., 1 Deems, Eliza J., 3 Deems, Elizabeth, 1, 3 Deems, Emma J,, 25 Deems, Emma J., 1, 5 Deems, George, 3, 19 Deems, Harrison, 21 Deems, Hattie B., 1, 3, 5, 25, 26 Deems, Israel, 19, 21 Deems, Jacob, 3, 4, 19, 21 Deems, Jacob Jennings, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25 Deems, John, 3, 19 Deems, John C., 1, 5, 25 Deems, Jonethan, 21 Deems, Levi, 21 Deems, Louisa Arnold, 1, 3, 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 25 Deems, Luceria, 3 Deems, Lucrecia, 19 Deems, Margaret, 5 Deems, Margaret "Maggie", 1, 25 Deems, Mark, 19, 21 Deems, Mark F., 21 Deems, Mary, 19, 21 Deems, Mary E., 1, 3 Deems, Oliver, 25, 26 Deems, Oliver G., 1, 5 Deems, Robert Sherman, 1, 5, 8, 13, 15, 25, 27 Deems, Samuel, 1, 3 Deems, Simeon, 21, 23 Deems, William, 21 Doane College, 16 Doane, Thomas, 8, 11, 16 Douglas, Mabel, 11 E Earl, Catherine "Artie" Deems, 1 Earl, Harry B., 25, 27 Earland, Exeter, 27 Earland, George, 27 F Fitzsimmons, Mrs. G. W., 27 Forney, Carrie, 27 Forney, Denver, 25 Forney-Blue, Carrie G., 1 Fritz, George, 16 G Gilliand, Mary, 13, 25 Gilliand, Mr. W. H., 27 Graham, Calhoun, 20, 24, 25 Graham, Charles, 6, 13 Graham, Clarence, 6, 16 Graham, Clayton, 6 Graham, Emma Deems, 20 Graham, Emma J. Deems, 1, 13, 16 Graham, Grace (Mrs. Monroe), 6 Graham, Robert, 27 Grahams, Charles, 11 Grant, President, 8 H Hatch, Mr. & Mrs., 27 Holtgrowe, Rox, Mrs., 17 Hufman, Unknown (2nd Wife of Jancob Deems), 19 J Jacobs, Dick, 25 Jacobs, Margaret "Maggie" Deems, 1 Jeffries, Joseph, 21 Jennings, Deborah, 3, 22 Jennings, Degrass, 3, 19, 22 Jennings, Henry, 3, 22, 23 Jennings, Henry, Capt., 22 Jennings, Israel, 3, 19, 21, 22 Jennings, Lenord, 3, 22 Jennings, Lucrecia, 22 Jennings, Lucrecia, Lenord, 3, 22 Jennings, Mary, 3, 4, 19, 22 Jennings, Simeon, 3, 22 Jennings, William, 3, 22 Jones, Nathaniel, 19 K Kahl, Mrs., 6 Kent, Mrs., 27 Kobes, Frank, 17 Korsebbrook, Geo., 17 L Lader, Don Jamieson, 17 Lenard, William, 19 Lenord, Rosan Mitchell, 3, 22 M Martendale, Lan, 21 Martendale, Tomas, 21 Meyer, Z. F., 17 Miller, J. G., 17 Mitchell, James, 27 Moffit, Wm, 21 Molumby, Henry, 25 Molumby, Margaret "Maggie" Deems, 27 Moore, J.C., 2 Murray, Homer, 17 N Nelson, Stewart, Mrs., 17 O Oliver, J., 17 Oliver, Mr., 18 P Plouzek, Anton, 17 Powell, Hannah, 3, 22 Powell, Harriet, 3, 22 Powell, John, 3, 22 Powell, Robert, 3, 22 Powell, Robert Jr., 3, 21, 22 R Rhine, Mrs. J. W., 27 Rhine, Nell, 25 Robertson, James, 2, 6 Rood, D. J. F., 17 Rood, Grace, 17 S Smith, Ella B., 2 T Terffelle, E. H., 21 Thompson, Jackson, 21 Townsend, Anna Deborah Deems, 1, 13, 15 Townsend, I. Ora, 24, 25, 27 Townsend, Robert, 27 V Vance, W. H., Rev., 12 W Watkins, Eliza J., 12 White, C. C. Mrs., 17 Whitesides, Fib, 26 Worely, Mr., 18 Worley, Wm. L., 17 From the Deems Family Bible Births Jacob J. Deems Born Feb. 14 1817 Louisa A. Deems wife of Jacob Born Dec. 21 1830 Elizabeth Deems Born Dec. 15 1837 Mary E. Deems Born June 5 1840 Samuel Deems Born Jan. 18 1842 Elisa J. Deems Born June 26 1844 Second children Amanda Deems Born May 4 1853 Hattie B. Deems Born Oct. 11 1856 Annie Deems Born Oct. 12 1857 Maggie Deems Born March 15 1859 Emma J. Deems Born Oct. 20 1861 John C. Deems Born August 11 1863 Oliver Deems Born April 27 1865 Robert S. Deems Born Feb. 19 1867 Carrie L. Deems Born Feb. 5 1870 Catherine Deems Born 2 1873 Deaths Catherine Deems first wife of Jacob Deems Departed this life Oct 4 1849 Samuel Deems departed this life March 9 1849 Louise A. Deems departed this life Jan 9 1890 Jacob J. Deems departed this life Dec. 2 1900 Hattie B. Deems Earl departed this life July 3 1903 Amanda Deems Blue departed this life Dec 12 1924 Oliver G. Deems departed this life May 9 1927 Catherine Artie Earl departed this life Jan 6 1930 Maggie Jacobs departed this life May 2 1960 John C. Deems departed this life April 7 1942 Emma J. Deems Graham departed this life July 10 1947 Robert Sherman Deems departed this life Dec 6 1963 Carrie G. Forney-Blue departed this life no record Anna Townsend departed this life Oct 18 1946 RECORD OF JACOB DEEMS LAND PURCHASE IN SALINE COUNTY COURT HOUSE, WILBER, NEBRASKA. * * * * * * * * 80 acres--(S 1/2 S.W.) Jacob Deems from James Robeson for $750.00 July 28. 1868. Warranty Deed. * * * * * * * * Another deed from J.C. Moore on same property. J.C. Moore to Jacob Deems, a deed 1878. -$1800.00. Pat. to R.R. Legal description of land: N.1/2, N.W. 1/2 of Section 26. Township 8, Range 4. S.1/2, of S.W. 1/4 of Section 23. Create Precinct. JACOB DEEMS Record of receipt by McCook, Nebraska, for $200.00. W.S.E., S.W., N.E. and S.E. N.W. 1/2, Sect. 5. Frontier Co, and final Homestead Recipt, 7/9/97. $.35. U.S. Land Office, McCook. Entry 9766, Sect. 32. 3/11/91 T.7. R. 28. * * ** * * * * The records of Frontier Co. show that Jacob Deems filed a Receivers Receipt on Jan. 3. 1889, Dated Dec. 26, 1888 on S.W.1/4. N.E.1/4; S.E. 1/4, N.W. 1/4 and the W 1/2 S.E. 1/4, Sect. 5. Township 6. Range 28. This land was sold Dec. 20 1895, by Sheriff. Deed to Ella B. Smith. According to records in Frontier Co. Court House this sale was due to a foreclosure of mortgage. Jacob Deems homestead record in Frontier Co. Court House. United States to Jacob Deems, Patent was filed June 13. 1900, Dated May 9. 1891, on S.W. 1/2, N.E. 1/4, , S.E. 1/4, N.W. 1/4 and W 1/2, S.E. 1/4, Sect. 5. Township 6, range 28. WRITTEN DECEMBER 18. 1900, BY SIMEON JENNINGS TO JACOB DEEMS. * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * Henry and William Jenningshad a father and mother in England. They came to this country a great many years ago and landed at the beach of Long Branch. They started out to prospect and were captured by the Indians. William was burnt at the stake and Henry made his escape and settled near Bentleysville, Washington Co., Penna. Here he died and was buried near Hillsboro, Washington Co.. The best information I can get is that your grandmother on your father's side was Henry Jenning's child and she was my grandmother. Your father and my father were brothers. They had one sister, Debby (Deborah). She married a Robert Powell and had four children. Robert (a wealthy New Yorker), John Harriet and Hannah. Henry Jennings had the following children: Simeon, William, Mary, Deborah, Luceria, Leonard, and Degrass. (Lenord?) Capt. Henry Jennings was your Great Grandfather. Rosan Mitchell Lenord is the daughter of Luceria Lenord Jennings. DEEMS *** Jacob Deems, father of Jacob J. Deems and brothers of George and John. Mary Jennings was the mother of Jacob J. Deems--sister Luceria married William Jennings--brothers Israel and Degrass Jennings . Jacob J. Deems was born Febr. 14. 1817 and died Dec. 7. 1900; He married Catherine Barton Mar. 1. 1836. She died October 4. 1849. Children by first wife--Catherine Barton: Elizabeth Born Dec. 15. 1837, Mary E. Born June 5. 1840, Samuel Born Jan. 18. 1842--died Mar. 9. 1843, Eliza J. Born June 26. 1844, Childen by second wife--Louisa Arnold of Washington Co. Penna. Married Nov. 4. 1851. She was born Dec. 21. 1830, and died Jan. 9. 1890. Amanda Born May 4, 1853 in Penna. Hattie B Born Oct. 11 1856 in Penna. Anna D Born Oct. 12. 1857 in Penna. Maggie Born Mar. 15. 1859 in Penna. Emma J. Born Oct. 20. 1861 in Penna. John C. Born Aug. 11. 1863 in Penna. Oliver Born Apr. 27. 1865 in Penna. Robert S. Born Sept. 19 1867 in Penna. Carrie G. Born Febr. 5. 1870 in Nebr. Catherine Artisema Born Dec. 2. 1872 in Nebr RECORD OF THE DEEMS ANCESTORS * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Parents and grandparents of Jacob and Louisa's children. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Their Father: Jacob Jennings Deems Born in Pennsylvania in 1817. Their Mother: Louisa Arnold Deems Born in Pennsylvania in 1830. Their Father's father: Jacob Deems Born in Pennsylvania. Their Father's mother: x-Debra Jennings Deems Born in Pennsylvania. Their Mother's father: John Arnold Born in England Their Mother's mother: Chloe Bishop Born in Virginia. (Correction: X. Their father' mother was Mary Jennings rather than Debra.) THE JOURNEY COMPLETED AND GRANDPA ARRIVES. * * * * * * * * * * * The big, creaking wheels of the prairie schooner slowed down to a groaning stop, on the banks of Walnut Creek, that hot day in the summer of 1868. It was close to the spot that was later to be the town of Crete, Nebraska. The oxen, Jim and Bill, probably bought in Brownville, were panting heavily as they energetically switched their tails to remove the hungry flies from their backs, and snorting to remove the prairie dust from their nostrils. They were tired, and thirsty and pretty much exhausted. This momentous stop marked the end of a laborious and quite dangerous journey of many hot and tiring weeks of travel for Jacob and Louisa Deems and their eight children, aged 15 and down to a baby xxxx boy a few months old. It also marked the end of a life they had been accustomed to, and the beginning of a life and a future that they knew not of, in the new and untamed state of Nebraska. There were Indians around, no schools for these children, no churches to worship in, no neighbors for fellowship and company, no nice ties of life, and food was scarce. The trip had been a grueling one for the parents, but more so for the children. So, as the wheels stopped that day, all aboard the prairie schooner, sat in deep wonderment as they gazed at their future home which was a log cabin, sixteen feet by eighteen feet, surrounded by trees, and with a little brook in the back yard. The children, mostly girls, were the first to gain their composure and started out to explore the surroundings, using their lusty voices and their legs that had been pretty much confined in the wagon over the weeks of the trip. The family must have left the old stone house in Merrittstown, Penna., that had been their home, and the birthplace of their children, and where they had said 'good bye' to their old manner of life, with strong and determined hearts. Such was the experience of ancestors almost a xxxx century ago. Among my mothers things (Mother was one of the children who made this trip) I found a memorandum, undated, but with the following information: (quote) "We left Merritstown, Penna. and rode to Rice's Landing in old Quicknick's ox cart. (Merritstown is close to the Monongahella River which flows into Pittsburg). Then we had a long boat ride to Pittsburg (about 25 miles). I cried because they would not let me have boiled eggs and beet pickles for breakfast. From Pittsburg, a stuffy boat ride to Cincinnati. From there the train to St. Joe, Mo., where we ferried over the Missouri River, next a three days ride in a prairie schooner, ox drawn. One night we all slept on a mud floor with straw on it and blankets over the straw, in Langston's sod house. Crickets, bugs, and flies were so plentiful that we did not sleep very much. This was probably the night before we slept in the open" (End of quote) Probably this was the last night of their journey before they reached the log house. The Deems became the third white family in that immediate area. One family lived in a sod house, and the other in a dug out. The family that came that day in 1868 were; Father Jacob Deems, 51 years old; Mother Louisa Deems, 38 years old; Amanda Deems, 15 years old; Hattie B. Deems, 12 years old; Annie D. Deems, 11 years old; Margaret (Maggie) Deems, 9 years old; Emma J. Deems, 7 years old; John C. Deems, 5 years old; Oliver Deems, 3 years old; Robert Sherman Deems, a few months old (Two more children were later born in the log cabin. They were Carrie and Artie.) * * * * * * As was said before, the log house was 16 feet by 18 feet in size, and an attic above the one room was the sleeping quarters for the children. This could only be entered by using a ladder on an outside opening. At night when the last child was up, the ladder was pulled up and in, and so the family was safe for the night. According to the records in the Saline Co. Court House, Grandfather bought this 80 acres of land from James Robertson for $750.00, on July 21. 1868. (See deed attached in photostat) * * * * * * * * Other adjoining land was later acquired via the Homestead Act. I understand that in order for this to be proved up on, that it had to be lived on for so many weeks or months each year. The living quarter here became a dug-out, till the land became Grandfather's. Grandfather Jacob soon found that the family needed more room in the house so he built an addition on to the original. It consisted of a living room plus a kitchen, a downstairs bedroom and two bedrooms upstairs. The old house still stands today as it was then. The log part has been weather boarded over so no logs are in sight. Recently the house was electrified. The present owners told us they had to bore through logs 18 inches thick to get the wiring done. In June 1966, while the Graham brothers-Charlie, Clarence and Clayton, and sister Grace Monroe were visiting us in Lincoln, we all made a trip to Crete, and stopped at the old Deems place. Mr. Kahl, the present owner was kind enough to take us to the cellar of the old log house--the original hole in the ground--but now with bricked up walls. There we gazed in amazement at the old walnut logs, 12 to 20 inches in diameter. They are still a firm foundation as the girders of the old log house that rests upon them. There was no sign of decay in those logs that have been there for about 100 years. FROM HERE; The old log house becomes the focal point in the lives of the Deems family, as well as the story that follows. Here the children played along Walnut Creek which ran very close to the house. There was no bridges of course. Mother said that if they wanted to cross the creek they would often climb a young tree, get it to swaying over the creek, and when the proper moment arrived, they would drop out of the tree on the opposite shore. Some times there was a convenient fallen log or tree across the creek which would be utilized for a bridge, proving that necessity was the mother of invention. It was here that the Indians came very often. They would never knock, but open the door and walk right in, and stand and grunt which meant only one thing and that was they wanted food. This they always received for these Indians were the friendly ones. From here also the children often saw dead Indians, laced tightly in skins, and tied high in trees. Here they stayed until these remains were but a sack of dried bones, and ready for burial in the ground, and ofttimes with their precious possessions. From here that first hard winter came with a scarcity of food, and no meat but jack rabbits to eat, and an occasional prairie chicken. Mother said many times in her later years that she never could eat another rabbit, and we think she never did. Twice a year Grandfather made a trip to Nebraska City, 60 miles away, to get his grain ground for flour and meal. This trip took a week's time with the old ox cart and faithful Jim and Bill. A few years later a grist mill was built at Camden, which was several miles north of the log cabin home, and located on the Blue River. This was a much shorter trip than the one to Nebraska City. While Grandfather was a Camden one time, a heavy rain came and the Blue River flooded and made it impossible for him to return home when he planned to. The family at home was having trouble also. They ran out of food and especially bread and they literally scraped the bottom of the barrel down to dry and mouldy crusts. No tooth brushes were available for the Deems family then. But sasafras trees were in abundance. A branch from this tree cut at the right time of maturity could be frayed out, making the ends pliable enough to be used for a tooth brush. Again: "Necessity--the mother of invention." I am told by my older brothers that Grandfather planted his first corn with a hatchet. This process perhaps took place for two or three years. The sod as yet had not been turned over, and where it had been the sod roots were still to be contended with. The hatchet cut the roots and the soil could also be pulverized with it. Several kernals of corn were then dropped in. I wonder what took place beyond the little clearing though. This method did not produce much corn, I am sure, and so corn was scarce. The boys would throw six ears of corn in the oxen feed box, but Grandpa was always able to retrieve three of them before they were consumed. About the only other grain raised was oats and buckwheat. Probably all of the land was still wild prairie grass which had to be turned over with a 'breaking plow' pulled by the oxen, and a back breaking job for Grandfather. I do not know what other farm tools were available for them to use. In 1878 Grandfather bought another 80 acres of land for $1800.00 which he had very likely gone into debt for. He still used the oxen long after many of his neighbors were using horses. LOGS From here Grandfather cut and hauled large walnut logs from along Walnut Creek to make the first dam on Blue River. That was in the late 1870s, and this dam led to the locating of the first flour mill in the town of Crete near the dam. These logs are still in the old dam, I am told. These logs were so large that they could not be hauled by the regular log swing on wheels. Grandfather received either one dollar or three dollars a piece for them. THE RAILROAD COMES ALIVE? * * * * * * * * From here was the railroad building vantage point. July 1. 1869 work was started on the grading of the right of way, preparatory to the laying of the rails for what is now the main line of the Burlington Railroad. It was then known as the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. The right of way ran right through Grandpa Deem's land, and very close to the house, probably a block or two. What entertainment for the children. Many men were involved in the making of the grade. All hand labor. It seems that this job was done by imported laborers, mostly Irishmen, and hired by the Railroad contractors. Temporary living quarters and cooks moved with the job as the work progressed. Each man owned his own mule team and wheel scraper for the moving of dirt. Also other tools as they were needed. This was indeed a hard job and needed sturdy, tough men to accomplish it. Following are records of this accomplishment, taken from the "History of the Burlington Route", by Richard Overton, under the title of the Burlington and Missouri Railroad in Nebraska." 1. President Grant signed the charter of the B.& M.R.R, Apr. 1869. 2. Thomas Doane (of Massachusetts) in charge of construction, and was presented in July 1969 when Gov. Butler turned the first sod for the right of way at Lincoln. (Doane was the chief Engineer.) 3. By January 1870, ten miles was completed, and on May 9. of the same year, service was opened to Ashland, and by July 4. the road was completed to within one mile of Lincoln. July 26. 1870 the railroad was completed to Lincoln, and on June 21. 1871, the first train ran into Crete, passing through the Deems farm and what was later the Graham farm. By Aug. 12. 1871, tracks were finished to Sutton, 46 miles farther west. The first grades, as well as the ties and rails, were quite crude compared with ours of today. The first trains were pulled by small wood-burning engines, and made up of two or three cars at the most. They could not, and dared not travel fast. It is not clear to me about this railroad right of way, whether or not Grandfather owned the land and sold it to the railroad for a right of way, or whether the railroad simply owned the land right up to his. Uncle Sherman Deems told me the following story when he was about 85 years old. He was a very young boy at the time the railroad grade was built by their home, and almost in their yard. So all the Deems children had grandstand seats to watch this history-making show taking place in front of their log house. All the work was done by man and mule team power. Day by day the work progressed, and day by day Sherman grew bolder and bolder, creeping out and getting closer and closer to the working men. Finally one man saw the child, called him to come, and asked him if he would like to ride on the mule's back. The child could not turn down such an invitation. He was then boosted up on the mule's back and from this vantage point he surveyed the building of the now famous Burlington Main Line from Denver to Chicago. HEART ACHES. * * * Along with the romance of the building of the west, as would be expected, came many heart aches. One was the terrible scourge of the grasshoppers. Mother had told the story many times. On a Sunday afternoon in 1874 about 2.30 o'clock, the sun became darkened, the chickens went to roost, people looked skyward to see the cause and their hearts almost failed them. They saw great clouds of grasshoppers coming and coming and coming. Still they kept coming and lit on the ground until they covered everything and started eating, and then they stayed till all vegetation was consumed, which was about three days. Grandmother quickly tied rags, dishtowels and other material around the heads of cabbages growing in the garden, hoping to save at least some. But the hoppers got inside the wrappings anyway and nothing was left of the cabbage heads. Sister Grace says that holes were even eaten in the dish towels. Dry years came when nothing was raised. Prairie fires menaced life and property; tornadoes came, wild animals destroyed young stock, and destructive wolves, coyotes and wild cats were numerous. And Indians, however, I'm not sure that our folks ever had Indian troubles, but a few years earlier they were greatly feared, and many white folks lost their lives in the Saline Co. area. Probably the best remembered and historically recorded was the great blizzard of 1888. It came on the afternoon of January 12. There already was 14 inches of snow on the ground. The day was beautiful, warm and sunny, but all of a sudden, without warning, came the howling, tearing wind out of the north and the blizzard of '88 had struck, and it lasted three days. The snow on the ground was lifted and swirled in the air and it was almost impossible to see or breath. The driving snow cut like knives on face and hands. Some school children were dismissed and started home. Many of them never arrived home and their frozen bodies were not found until the snow melted in the spring. In other schools the teachers kept their students, and burned books and chairs and other materials to keep the children alive during the long night. Our father had gone for a load of hay to the north end of the farm which was about a half mile away. When he finally found his way back to the barn, his bare hands were nearly frozen, and the only hay that was not blown off the wagon was that on which he was standing. Nebraska has a Blizzard Club, that celebrates each year on that day they remember so well. Yes! Heartaches were many in the winning of the west. CRETE Crete was laid out by those of the community working with the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, and given the name of Crete on November 26. 1870. At this time there were probably three or four buildings within the town site. One of these was a saloon which was set up in business before the building had a roof on it. Only a dozen families made up the population. The early towns and settlers needed to be close to water, for where there was water there would also be grass and timber necessary for building and fuel for heat. Near water, gardens could be raised and cattle could graze. Running water was also necessary to turn the wheels of the grist mills that became increasingly a necessity, as well as for practical purposes in the modest dwelling places. Crete was on the Big Blue River, and also Walnut Creek which emptied into the Blue. In 1871, the city limits were defined by legislative act. There were by then about 400 people in the town By 1881 the population had increased to 2500. A great expansion had occurred in this place where ten years before there had been practically nothing. Now there stood in this town in the Blue River Valley at least 50 business places and other establishments. A half a dozen churches were now ringing their bells and calling the people to worship services. A college for higher learning had been established. There were ten manufacturing establishments, two banks, a fine opera house, three grain elevators, two coal yards. eight doctors, several lawyers, and three hotels. One of these hotels was the best in the state outside of Lincoln and Omaha. New modern schools for the education and development of the rising generation had also sprung up. The following poem was found in the Nebraska-Wesleyan Library entitled "Crete". "Nature has smiled on this beautiful spot, On the banks of the Blue, where fishes are caught, The valleys around her are rich, broad and deep, On which to raise grain, horses, cattle and sheep. The wild deer and antelope gambol and play In view of her people, for huntsmen to slay. Her air is most pure, her waters are clear, Her daughters are lovely, her sons know no fear. Fine churches and schools are here to be found, And grandeur of landscape around her abound, Eight months ago Jessie Bickle raised wheat, On the site of the town which is now named Crete. May 12. 1871. Author unknown. Signed R.F. THE COUNTY NAMED In 1866 the area was platted into a county and named Saline. It was probably so named because of its proximity to the Salt Basin and Salt Creek. According to this date, the county was platted before Nebraska became a state, in 1867. The first election took place in 1866 at which time 67 people (men only) voted in the County. BIG GAME. Big game was plentiful before 1865. Elk, buffalo, deer, wild turkeys and beaver could be readily found in the area any time. This fact probably accounted for the large number of Indians being in the area. In 1864-65, these Indians, the Sioux and the Cheyenne were on the war path, and many early settlers lost their lives at their hands. These tribes moved on as the game became scarce. Probably the Indians in evidence when the Deems family arrived were of the friendly Sioux. In 1868 came the wanton destruction of the buffalo by the white man. They claimed that the only way to clear the country of Indians was to get rid of the buffalo. The Indians could not exist without them. BIG BLUE LOST TO CRETE * * * * * * * * In 1863, J. C. Bickle owned land along the Big Blue River in northeast Saline Co. where the south west part of Crete now stands. He had it platted in 1870 under the name of Big Blue City. But, as Postmaster, Bickle named the Post Office Crete, in honor of his home town Crete, Illinois, and the South Platte Land. Co. purchased land northeast of Big Blue River City, and platted a town there, it became evident that consolidation would become necessary. The following spring the two towns decided to consolidate, so the Crete of that area and the Big Blue City, founded Nov. 26. 1870, became one. Mrs. Bickle was given the honor of naming the new consolidation, so she selected the already familiar name of Crete. When the Deems family arrived in 1868 they were the third white family. As I remember, the J. C. Bickles lived in a dug-out at this time. Thomas Doane, a civil engineer for the Burlington railroad along with several Congregational ministers and laymen established Doane College in 1872. The purpose was to encourage people to come and settle in the area. The Crete Mills, founded in 1869, is older than the city itself. As is mentioned in another place, Grandfather supplied the logs for the first dam on the Blue River, making possible the first mill. The Douglas Voting Booth Co. was established in 1910. The voting booth came into being because of a dream of Mrs. Douglas. This enterprise grew to the extent that this booth is now used in all the fifty states of the union. Probably all of voting age that have read this history have by now voted in one of these booths. The Douglas family were close friends of the Grahams, and Mabel Douglas became the wife of brother Charles. Copied in 1970 from State Vidette, of Crete, Nebraska. Issue of January 16. 1890. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * DIED. Deems. At her home in Frontier Co., on Jan. 9. 1890, Mrs. Louisa A. Deems, aged 60 years, 18 days. Mrs. Deems was one of the Pioneer settlers in Crete, and was beloved by all who had the good fortune of her acquaintance. She was born in Washington Co. Penna., Dec. 21. 1829, and was married to Jacob Deems, Nov. 4. 1851. They resided in Fayette Co. until they came to Nebraska in 1868 to carve out a new home, and located on Walnut Creek, just east of this city. In 1888, Mr. Deems sold his homestead and moved to Furnace Co. For several months the deceased has been gradually growing weaker and finally worn out she went into that quiet sleep that knows no wakening. Her remains were brought to Crete last Saturday, and Sunday afternoon W. H. Vance preached the funeral sermon at the home of Mrs. Curl. She leaves a husband and 10 grown children and a host of warm friends who fondly cherish her memory and deeply mourn her death. * * * * * * * * * * * * Copied in 1970 from the Crete Democrate--Issue of Dec. 19. 1900. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Jacob Deems was born in Washington Co. Penna. Febr. 11. 1817 and died at the home of daughter Mrs. Blue near Wilber, Nebr. Dec. 7. 1900 Mr. Deems was one of Nebraska's pioneers, coming to the state in the spring of 1868, and settled on a farm near where the city of Crete now stands. Here he spent the remainder of his life, with the exception of a brief period near its close, during which he lived for a short time in Frontier Co. The balance of his life with his children. He was twice married, the first time to Catherine Barton, of Washington, Penna. born Mar. 1. 1830, who died Oct. 4. 1849. Of this marriage one child is still living, Mrs. Eliza J. Watkins of Placerville, California. His second marriage was with Louisa A. Arnold, Nov. 4. 1851. She died Jan. 9. 1890. From this union there are ten living children, three sons and seven daughters, nearly all of them were present at his funeral Dec. 9 at the Methodist Episcopal Church in Crete. Father Deems was one of the men who helped to organize the M.E. Church in Crete, and at the time of his death, his name was still on its record. His connection with the church of his choice extended over a period of nearly seventy-five years, as he was baptized when he was eight years old. He was 83 years old. THE GIRLS' WEDDINGS. * * * * * * From the records I was able to find, all of the older girls were married in the log home. Amanda in 1880; Emma in 1881; Hattie in 1883; Anna in 1885 and Maggie in 1887. * * * * * * ON WEST * * * * About 1887, although Grandfather was now 70 years of age, he felt the call of: "Young man go west." He disposed of his Crete property, picked up bag and baggage, the three younger children, Carrie Artie, and Sherman, plus of course, Grandmother, and in a covered wagon went west to Curtis, Nebraska. He seemingly took a homestead, or could have bought property. The stay at Curtis was rather of short duration though, as Grandmother died there in 1890. The family, however, stayed on for a while before returning to Crete. Brother Charles says he remembers very well the day they came back from Curtis in the covered wagon. They drove into our folks place with four horses and their household belongings, Artie and Carrie were doing the driving. The girls, I think, made their home with Aunt Mandy and Uncle George in Wilber. Carrie taught school for a few terms, then married in 1893, and Artie married in 1894, both weddings at the Blue home. Carrie was 20 and Artie 17 when their Mother died. Sherman stayed in Curtis and found a school to teach and also a girl to marry. He and Mary Gilliland were married in 1889. They remained in Curtis area for a few years and then returned to Crete. * * * * * * * * * * * * GRANDFATHER PASSES ON. * * * * * * * * * Grandfather passed away on Sunday, December 7 1900 at Aunt Mandy's home. He was buried Sunday, December 9. with the funeral service held in the Methodist Church (which he had helped to organize in his own log cabin) at 2.00 P.M. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery by the side of his wife Louisa. And so the Patriarch of the generation in a family was gone, as well as an era of life lived by a good man. OUR GRANDPARENTS. * * * * * * Of course I never knew Grandmother Louisa, nor did I ever hear very much about her. I have seen only one picture of her, and that was taken with Grandfather. In this picture she give the impression that she was very austere. I could be wrong with this impression. She died quite young, being only sixty years of age, as we judge ages today. But then I presume she was considered an old lady. They were living in Curtis, Nebraska at the time. Grandmother of course had had a hard life and was a hard working woman. Any woman that bore 10 children in those days had to be. Can we today even imagine the work of a household in the pre-electric, pre-mechanical age for the house wife. The making of clothes for the family by hand, for not all had sewing machines. The knitting of sox, mittens and caps, which first entailed the washing and carding of the wool before the actual knitting, constituted a very big job. If carpets were needed often the house wife made them from rags, either by braiding or making them on an improvised loom. The raising of food in a garden, the drying of corn, beans, apples and fruits of many kinds for winter use, the string of other vegetables, as tin cans in stores were unknown in those days on the frontiers, and no fresh foods were known for the winter months, this always meant many hours of hard work. This was not all for there was the making of butter, the rendering of the lard, the baking of the bread, cakes and pies, the butchering and curing of meat, and this type of work was not easy. The family wash was done by hand on a wash board with home-made soap, made from pig fat mixed with lye water. This water was made by pouring rain water over wood ashes. Ironing was done with a sad iron, heated on the stove. These and many others were the early house wife's tasks and responsibilities, and these were Grandmother Louisa's also and along with raising ten children, helps us to understand why she was a "hard working woman". She was brought back to Crete from Curtis where they were living at the time, for burial. Grandmother's maiden name was Arnold. The Arnolds were from Virginia. I have heard Mother say that there was a relationship between their family and General Arnold's family. But I would never try to prove it or find the relationship. GRANDFATHER JACOB. Grandfather died at Amanda Blue's home at Wilber. I am quite sure this had been his home after he had come back from Curtis, except for a possible few exceptions. His death came early in December 1900, just a few days before I was three years old. Strange as it may seem, I remember his funeral, or burial, I should say, very well. My father sat me down on the pile of dirt at the cemetery, where I could look onto the casket. I have heard so much of Grandfather, that I almost felt as if I knew him. He was a very serious man, but underneath he was a big man and loved to play with his grandchildren. In his last years he was still at it. Nothing pleased him more than to show off his agility. His best stunt was to take a broom handle or long stick at each end, in his hands. Hold it steady and jump over it. Try it if you think it's easy, especially if you are in or nearing your 80 years of age. Grandfather did not fight in the Civil War. Although he was the right age. It was possible and legal then for a man to hire a substitute to fight for him, and this he did. Several of those relatives who graduated from these Halls of Higher Learning went on to make their mark in our world of ministers, teachers, scientist, government workers, and some just well-educated citizens. Let us never underestimate a small beginning or what might have taken place within the confines of a "log cabin". Remember Abraham Lincoln? Mother attended Doane from the time of its opening until 1881 when she and Dad were married. Her family teased her much, as Dad often came to college to pick her up and take her home, and he always rode on a white mule. Others in the family that also attended that I feel sure of were, Anna and Sherman. There could have been others. EARLY SCHOOLS. Early schools were not for the Deems children. They were too far away for walking and there were no means of transportation. What schools there were, of course, were quite primitive. Early Crete records show that there was a school in a 'dug-out" on the Fritz George place during 1867-1869. There was also a "dug-out" on the Big Blue with 13 students (pupils), and one in a log house at Bickles. Evidently the first one in town was in the front of a carpenter shop. Then in 1870-71, Mr. C. J. Bowlby taught in District No. 2. I do no know the location. The old Academy was erected in the south part of Crete in 1871, and later students transferred to Doane College. "Quote." Information from Clarence. "At Crete, Thomas Doane and some of the Boston Directors, donated enough land and funds to make possible the foundation which later was transferred to Doane." (End of quote) So it was either the school taught by C. J. Bowlby, or the Academy that the Deems children attended. Probably the Academy. I have heard my Mother say that she was eleven years old when she started to school, so the Academy was in existence. The children trudged along together, barefoot and carrying their shoes, which they put on as they approached the school. Why this? Shoes were scarce, as was money to buy them, so save the shoes and wear out the feet. I never heard what schooling was available for the older children in Pennsylvania before coming to Crete, but they must have had quite some. I still have the old Fifth Reader that Mother used. This, of course, does not mean the Fifth Grade. School then did not have grades as we know them today. On the fly leaf of this reader, and written by Mother, the following words are inscribed: "Emma Deems. 1875. Crete." As I scanned through this book lightly, I see the first chapter deals with vocal gymnastics. Dealing with vocal powers that need development, it suggests the best ways to sit, stand, rise, hold a book, as well as the poise of the head and chin. One of the first points made in training a young reader is this quotation: "What polish is to a diamond, manner is to an individual". and: "The charm of manner consists of its simplicity, its grace and its sincerity. How important is the study of manner!" Doane College. Doane College was incorporated June 11. 1872. Deeded to Doane College by the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, was 600 acres of land valued at $25.00 per acre--$15,000.00; 50 town lots--$5,000.00; ground was broken for Merrill Hall, April 12. 1879. With the opening of Doane College, Mother, with at least two others of the Deems family, were transferred there from the old Academy when it gave way to Doane. Grandpa gave some time and money in the establishment of Doane. He was one of the first donors. Three of his children attended Doane, as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Others of our relatives also attended there. CHURCH LANDMARKS In 1866, a presiding elder from Lincoln, by the name of J. G. Miller, who was scouting in Saline County, held meetings in a dugout, north of present Crete, near the fork of the North and West Blue rivers. Three years later, two circuit riders, responding to the names of L. Oliver and Wm. L. Worley, might be seen riding the territory, covering Butler, Seward, Polk, Yourk, and the northern parts of Fillmore and Saline Counties. In May of that year, Oliver organized a class in a loghouse on Walnut Creek, just north of Crete. In all probability, it was the home of Jacob Deems, as he was the first class-leader, and his home served as the stopping place of the early ministers. Wm. Worley received for his year's wages the handsome sum of $62 from the Missionary Society and $11 from the circuit. In 1874, the corner stone was laid for a church, on the site of the present Crete Power plant. It was named "Grace," the name, which it bears to this day, in memory of a little girl, who was snatched from the home of D. J. F. Rood, one of the primo movers for the first church. The young church faced innumerable difficulties. There was some progress, but by 1881, the membership had slumped from 79 to 40. No pastor was assigned the following year. By 1886, the loss was largely regained, yet the numbers hardly warranted the building of a new church. However, Crete, at that time, had men, whose foresight outweighed their hindsight. They raised money to the extent of $11,000, and erected a church with a seating capacity for 500. That same structure, started in 1887 and completed in 1888, still serves as out church home. The old pulpit, in use in the Primary Department, and the former chancol rail service as reminders of a former day and as connecting links between the present structure and the original. The Methodists at Crete had no parsonage until 1896, when Mrs. C. C. White donated several lots, together with a house. It was located on the present premises of the parsonage. In 1909, the frame steeple of the church was removed, and partially replaced by a brick structure. It had served since as a classroom. During the following years, an organ was installed. Despite its age, it has retained its sweet tone, and has required little attention. In 1915, the old parsonage was sold and removed to a lot across from the City Park, where it still stands. A new spacious house arose in its place, at the old site, where it is still in use. During the year 1931, the chancel of the church was completely remodeled. A new table, an altar rail, a new pulpit and a baptismal font were the result. It was during the early thirties, too, that a new heating plant was installed, and a room annexed to the church, which, since has come to be known as the choir room. In more recent years, the sanctuary had been redecorated, the building pointed-up and reroofed, a wooden floor laid in the basement, and a public address system, installed. Besides, the parsonage was equipped with a new furnace, and has been treated to several coats of paint. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PROGRAM COMMITTEE; Mrs. W. A. Baker, Paul Barth, Tom Adams, Jerrine Bouska. ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE: Mrs. Rox Holtgrowe, Homer Murray, Geo. Korsebbrook. PRINTING COMMITTEE: Mrs. Stewart Nelson, Mrs. Z. F. Meyer, Don Jamieson Lader, Anton Plouzek, Frank Kobes. THE CHURCH HAS ITS BIRTH From here, the log cabin, religious work in the Crete vicinity had its birth. When the Deems family put their feet on this Nebraska soil where their future home was located, there was no trace of a church any Christian worship. However, Grandfather Deems did not let this deter the training of his family in the Christian way of life. Each morning the family sat through Bible reading and prayer. This may not have been just the way to approach young children to make a lasting impression on them. We do not know. My Mother said that often the prayers were so long that they were either later for school, or had to run most of the way to be on time. They never could leave the house until devotions were over. Sunday was a day set apart and not to be blemished by secular or worldly activities. The children must not whistle, laugh, run or play Often Grandfather would go calling with his Bible and spread the Gospel by reading and commenting on the Scriptures., and thus he became in that early day what was known as a "saddle bag preacher". Soon, however, two circuit riders, who were Methodist ministers a Mr. Worley and a Mr. Oliver, came through the area and headquartered at the Deems log cabin. One can imagine the conversations and the theological discussions that took place around the old fireplace. Discussions about the future possibilities for Christian work in the area took place, and what the best thing was to do in that wild and unchurched area. Much time was probably spent in prayer for divine guidance. May 1869 came and Mr. Oliver returned to the log cabin. According to the records found in the Methodist Church at Crete, at the time of his visit, Mr. Oliver organized a "class" as it was then called, in the Deems log cabin, with Mr. Deems the first "Class leader". This was the meager beginning of the now Grace Methodist Church of Crete. Jacob Deems, Louisa Deems and Amanda Deems were three of the charter members. When the church celebrated its 40th. anniversary in 1909, all of this was recorded in the anniversary booklet, with Grandpa's picture on the cover, The Deems log cabin through the future years, was not only the headquarters for the church work, but also for the "saddle bag preachers. Here he received food and lodging, Christian fellowship, and possibly on some occasions, a little cash. The record states that Rev. Oliver received the handsome sum of $62.00 per year from the Missionary Society, and $11.00 from offerings on the circuit. In 1874, the corner stone was placed for the first church. It was a one room wooden building in the then organized and named town of Crete. This building was used until 1887 when a new brick structure was erected on another site. This building is still used and in good condition. The old original corner-stone has been implanted in the walls of the basement of the church for preservation. (From the Crete Methodist Church Records) Jacob Deems appointed Trustee at the monthly meeting Aug. 16 18 By Jacob Jennings Deems 1 page Wilber, Saline Co. Neb. The following is a statement written by Jacob Deems January first Eighteen hundred and ninety nine and is as follows I was born in Washington County pike Run township in the state of Pennsylvania in the year of eighteen hundred and seventeen Feb. 14th my father's name was Jacob Deems my Mothers name was Mary Jennings Before she married my father the Jennings lived near a stream of water called Pigeon Crick my father had four Brothers uncle george the oldest John was next Mark was next and Adam and father making five Brothers my Mother had one sister named Lucrecia she married William lenard and my Mother had two Brothers uncle Israel and Uncle Degrass Jennings 2 page uncle Israel moved west at an early date But uncle Degrass lived and died in Washington Co. the younger Jennings that is the Boys moved west and south father Brothers were all gone Before him father lived to Be eighty seven years old Before he died my mother had three children the, oldest my sister Deborah and my Brother Israel two years older then myself; father had two sisters Catherine the oldest Married Nathaniel Jones and aunt Mary Married Samuel Crow this statement include fathers Brothers and sisters which were my uncles and aunts on father's side 3 page there is a number of the name Deems living in different states I think we are distant Relatives for there was a number of Boys among them; some years after my Mother died father married the second wife's name was Hufman Be fore she Married father and so I had a step Mother and she was a good one to me I dout we ever had one ill word and I stayed with father till I was twenty one years old father owned a good farm and was a farmer himself I was Married in eighteen and thirty six the first time to Miss Catherine Barton and we lived together about eleven years and she was taken away she died with the consumtion age a Bout twenty Eight years old 4 page there was four children from my first Marage three daughters and one son which was taken away early in life the daughters all lived and Married and the oldest one lived at Cleveland Ohio the next oldest lived at Oskaloosa Town the youngest in California grissly Flats and all had families of their own, and I married my second companion Miss Louise Arnold of Washington Co. on november fourth eighteen hundred and fifty one and we lived together a Bout forty years and we had ten children three sons and seven daughters all married and one son at this date and doing well as could Be expected 5 page Both my companions were excellent women and nice looking and them and myself lived pleasant lives together I have Been a single man since my last companion was taken away staying with my children and all of them are very good and kind to me for which I am thankful and I do hope and pray that they all Be come god loving and god serving people is still my prayer and gain a home in heaven a Bove for I believe the departed spirits of Both my companions are in Bright glory and I expect my spirit will be there with theirs to praise the Blessed lord for ever and I would like all my children to Be there with me Jacob Jennings Deems 6 page well now for myself at the time I write this I am far advanced in years and am well Blessed with health for which I am so thankful to the good lord I am a man that has loved and served the lord for many years in past life and I am so glad that I love him and delight in keeping his commandments I have enjoyed a great deal of his love and peace in past years and stil do and the lord tells me in his Blessed word that he will never leave nor for sake those that keep and do his commands and my faith in him enables me to Believe him and I expect when it is his will to call me from earth to heaven I will praise him in glory. Jacob Deems (This letter written in pencil on ruled tablet paper was left by Jacob Deems' oldest daughter Amanda Deems Blue, of Wilber Neb. and is spelled, capitalized and punctuated exactly as his original. Mrs. Calhoun (Emma Deems) Graham was also his daughter). January 1, 1965 Letters of Simeon Deems (Addressed - Mr. Jacob Deems Wilber Neb. Saline Co.) East Bethlehem, Washington County, Pa. East Bethlehem Pa. July 9, 1900 Mr. Jacob Deems Dear Sir and uncle I received yours of The Third and will say I was double glad to here from you Dear uncle you asked me some questions and I will gladly answer you the best I can you wanted to now about your Brother Israel well uncle that is a question I am sorry my anwers must be no he was my Father and God in heaven nowes that I cannot Lie you say you have been in the Service of god for a long time it is the only service for any one to live in 2 and I hope by the grace of God to live and die in it my wife and Seffe both belong to the M E church we have got a good Pastor I do not go to church much my hering is very Bad yet I dont forget my duty toward God and man your Brother was not worth much when he died I took him and nursed him and card for him about two years Paid all Doctors bills taxes clothing and whene he died he left me two Hundred dollars. it did not pay for the a buss he gave you wanted to now about your old home Tomas Martendale owne it his Son Lan lives on the place Centerville has improved some so he has Belleville 3 the nearest Rail Road is at Brownsville their is a hack Runes from Brownsville to Washington every day I have got 6 acres of good land and two houses and three town lots I own the old house on the hill Our home I rent it Dear uncle the People that was here when you was here about are about all you I will tell you as neare as I can I am the Oldest Sitsen in Town I am 68 my Brother William lives in Pittsburg my Sister Mary lives in Pittsburg Wm Moffit is living he is 91 Joseph Jeffries is living Jonethan and Mark ar living the other Boyes are ded OR Taylor and Abner are living E H Terffelle Jackson Tompsonis living Jacob Deems Children is living Mark F Deems children- 4- The Powell Children I think there is three living Robert Powell lives in uniontown Fayette Co. he is very rich uncle Coal and Gass and oil is what makes Things boom here coal is worth from one hundred to five here in Washington County I have got my coal yet the coal is all about sold a bout here I have six acres when I get my price I will let it go uncle I have got yours Fathers table and William has got the old clock I will never part with the table Mark F Deems last wife gave it to me She is dead your step mother was 80 years old - 5 - Harrison deems is living with Levi Deems Wife they are married uncle Jacob did you now that Wm J Bryans Mother was Israel Jennings dauter I have bin corsponding with him in regard to the Jennings estate he is to buissy now to give it his attention he says latter he will look it up you should rite to him he is a fine man and a good Cristen and I am a Bryan man for President I expect this letter to you all your dauters was telling me what nice fruit you had we have lots of small fruit - 6 - we have a very nice home my wife and I both work I have as good wife as anny man and I try to be as good man we have no children but we have 10 grand children and one Grate Grand Child six grand dauters and four grand sons You asked what I was doing I work at my traid and take cair of what raise my wife sold 500 quarts of strawberries I was working at my traid I am at home now doing my harvest I have 50 dozen of wheat in the dry I have got 5 acres of land grass to cut last year I cut two acres and got five ton sold it in the meadow for Ten dollars - 7 - per ton I have got 20 bushels of old wheat I will not sow any this fall I have my land in grass we have grand potatoes we have plenty but we work to get it and then take cair of it now uncle I guess that I have told you all at this time hoping this will revive you and be a blessing to you I have told you I have told you somethings that I would rather it would have been different but we cannot help what others do we must work out our own Salvation uncle I would like to see you and have a Talk perhaps that will never be on this earth but I hope to meet you on the shore - 8 - in heaven They never say good by and we have the promis if we live faithful we will be their This is my prayer so uncle good by but not forever From Simeon Deems East Bethlehem Washington Co. Pa. and may God bless and comfort you all now and forever Amen Answer this as soon as you can My dear wife sends her love to you all P.S. we have no picture to send you this time we have given Thom all away we will send you one as soon as can get them Your Father was 90 years old when he died Was buried at Bellesville Pop was burried at Taylor S (pencil on rueld pad) ( Addressed Mrs. George Blue Box 167 Wilber Neb.) Dec. 4th 1900 (pen, ruled pad) East Bethlehem Pa. Dear Cousin I received your welcom letter yesterday and was glad to here from you all we are as common you spok a bout the Jennings estate their is an estate in england belonging to the Jennings and it is said to belong to Capt. Henry Jennings if so we are airs to the estate uncle Jacob Deems mother was Mary Jennings and she was Capt Henrys daughter William J. Bryan of Lincoln Neb. is air to the estate I have bin coresponding with him a bout it but he has bin very buisy locationear he ran for President and consumed all his time I expect to here from him soon I wanted him to rite to england and see how the matter stands if he will take hold of the case Then we will now all about it he is a very smart man and a good lawyer you mite tell your Father to rite to Bryan I will send you my Picture we have not one of my wife as soon as we get one I will send it to you well uncle I dont expect to ever see you here but Thanks be to God we have hope to meet on the other shore what a blessing to now that we have another home where there will be no separation well cousin it seems strange that we are coresponding whenever I can find out anything a bout the estate I will let you now it is a very big estate it amounts to three or four milion dollars you find out from you father how many children his Grandfather Capt. Henry Jennings had and the names of them all and send them to me as soon as you read this letter so I can send the name to Mr. Bryan when I here from him I will rite to him soon, and find out what he think a bout it hoping this will find you all well and may the Goo Lord bless and comfort you Sieon Deems East Bethlehem Pa (Addressed - Mrs. George Blue - Box 167 Wilber Neb.) East Bethlehem Pa Dec 18th 1900 My Dear Cousin yours of the 11 at hand I am glad to now that my last uncle lived to be a good man and a good church worker but was sad to here he was ded thanks to be to God he has gon home I would loved to seen him and had a talk with him but it seemed imposible for us to get together here on earth but I hope we will meet in that better land on high my dear Cousin I cannot quote to you my feelings in this case my wife and I took cair of my Father for two years and we had a hard time of it but it was our duty and we did it and got nothing for it In regard to the Jennings estate in england their is one their for the Jennings it belongs to but Henry and William Jennings had a father and mother in england they came to this country a great many years ago the landed at the beach of Long Branch and started out to Prospect and were captured - 2- by Indians William was burnt at the Stake and Henry maid his escape and settled near Bentleysvile Washington Co. Pa where he died and is burried near Hillsboro Washington Co. from the best information that I can get is your Grand Mother on your Fathers side was Henry Jennings Child she was my grand Mother your Father and my Father were Brothers they had one Sister Debby she married Robert Powell she had four children Robert John Hirett Hannah young Robert lives in Uniontown Fayette Co. Henry Jennings had 6 or 7 children Israel Simeon William Mary Debora or Debby Lucrocia Lenord and Degrass Capt Henry Jennings was your Grate Grand Father I have not received a letter from William J. Bryan yet but I received a letter from Rosan Mitchel Lenord She is a daughter of Lucrecia Lenord Jennings She rites to me and sayes that she received a letter from her neace in California stating that their was Lawyer their that was going to england to find out a bout it als thier was a man to see her to find out about the Jennings Perhaps your Father is - 3 - Corect a bout the children of Henry Jennings be that as it may your Grand mother was a child of Capt Henry Jennings Dear Cousin this estate is very Large and it will pay some one to look after it and I think some one will one will any thing that you want to now a bout let me now and I will tell you I will give a list of the amount that was left in england by William Jennings and I want you to take cair of it South Sea stock 30,000 Account at Bank 57,719 Do new 30,000 at Childs do 6,000 Do old 30,000 at Hans do 17,000 India stock 23,500 at Stephensons do 19,000 Conson 50,000 at Goslings do 7,000 Do his Mother 10,000 Interest on above to date 153,000 Bank stock 35,000 London A S Mahn (?) 43,000 5 per cent 30,000 New Rine Co 450,000 4 per cent 24,000 Mortgages 200,000 Reduced interest 50,000 Other estates 3,400,000 Long do 20,000 the above is pounds Sterlings multiply by five will bring it to dollars - 4 - You will see that the estate is very large if their is ownly four airs of Henry Jennings but it will go to a bout four generations and then we will still have enough I will get the one third (?) of the forth you would get the one 13th of the one forth that would be a very nice well I gess I have told you all at this time I suppose you think strang that I dont say something a bout my wife Well I have a grand good wife as any mans and she says she has as good a man as any woman so by that you can tell how we live we are both getting old and getting better well Cousin I will close for this time hoping this will find you and family well and receiving all the good of this world May the good Lord bless and comfort you all is My Prayers Yours Simeon Deems East Bethlehem Washington Co. Pa P.S. rite as soon as you can good night I will send my wifes picture to you as soon as we get one AN INTERESTING STATEMENT FOUND IN REGARD TO GRANDFATHER DEEMS DEATH BY AUNT AMANDA. * * * * * * * * * * * Doctor and Medicine $8.45 Casket $65.00 Funeral Cards $1.50 Phone .35 Minister $5.00 ** $80.35. $4.00 for teams 6.00 for grave. 1.50 for lining. .85 for phone. .35 for phone .50 for phone .25 for phone ------------------ $ 13.45 7.50 . . . Cal -------------------- $ 5.95 . . . Ode. (I suppose this means that Cal Graham and Ode Townsend paid this bill.) The Funeral of JACOB J. DEEMS will be held on Sunday, December 9th, 1900, at two o'clock p.m. from the Methodist Episcopal Church, Crete, Neb. THE DEEMS FAMILY ******** Jacob J. Deems: Born: Febr. 14. 1817 Died: Dec. 7. 1900. Age 83. Married: Nov. 4. 1851. to- Louisa Arnold Born: Dec. 21. 1830 Died: Jan. 9. 1890. Age 60. Children of this union: Amanda Born: May 4. 1853 Died: Dec. 12. 1924. Married: March 10. 1880, to George Blue. Born: Died: Apr. 6. Hattie Born: Oct. 11. 1856 Died: July 3. 1903 Married: Sept. 26. 1855, to I. Ode Townsend. PK COMMENT: THIS IS INCORRECT. I. O. Townsend married Anna Deborah Deems Born: Apr. 6. 1864. Died: Jan. 8. 1950 Maggie Born: Mar. 15. 1859 Died: May 2. 1960. Married: Febr. 2. 1887, to Henry Molumby Married: (?) to Dick Jacobs, Born: (?). Died: Aug. 2. 1960. Emma J. Born: Oct. 20. 1861 Died: July 10. 1947. Married: May 11. 1881, to Calhoun Graham. Born: June 21. 1857 Died: Aug. 21. 1921. John C. Born: Aug. 11. 1863 Died: April 7. 1942. Married: June 23. 1911, to Nell Rhine Married: , to Catherine Oliver Born: April 27. 1865 Died: May 9. 1927. Never Married. Sherman Born: Sept. 19. 1867 Died: Dec. 6. 1963. Married: June 11. 1889, to Mary Gilliland Born: Apr. 15. 1870 Died: Sept. 10. 1933 Carrie G. Born: Febr. 5. 1870 Married: April 9. 1893, to Denver Forney Married , to George Blue, B. (?) Died April 6. 1943. PK COMMENT Did George Blue marry Carrie and Amanda? Catherine Artimesa Born: Oct. 2. 1872 Died: Jan. 6. 1930. Married: June 27. 1894, to Harry B. Earl: Born: Dec. 26. 1867 Died: Dec. 8. 1949. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * THE BLUE FAMILY * * * * * * * * * * Amanda Deems. George B. Blue Born: May 4. 1853 Born: Oct. 7. 150, Morrison, Ill. Died: Dec. 12. 1924 Died: April 6. 1943. Married: Mar. 10. 1880. Father born in Nova Scotia; Mother born in England. They had no family. After retirement from the farm they moved to Crete from their farm west of Wilber. About 1917. Notes found in the Nebraska Atlas, a record of George Blue. He owned 160 acres, purchased in 1877, Sect. 13, Brush Creek township. Estimated value, $5000.00. George Blue: Farmer and Stock raiser. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * OLIVER DEEMS * * * * * * * * * * Oliver Deems. Born: April 27. 1865 Died: May 9. 1927. Single: Died of stomach cancer. Inmate of Hastings Hospital for many years. * * * * * * * * * * * FAMILY OF HATTIE DEEMS AND ARK CURL. * * * * * * * * * Hattie B. Deems. Born: Oct. 11. 1856. Died: July 3. 1903, in Lincoln, Nebraska Married: Apr. 4. 1883, at her home, to Ark Curl. Nothing known of him or his family. Children: May Born in 1884. Died at the age of 10 of membraneous croup on Oct. 10 Lillian Became an actress in San Francisco, California. Her stage name was "Fib Whitesides". She worked in San Francisco through the period of the earthquake in the early 1900s. Ray Born: Dec. 1. 1888. Death by drowning, July 17. 1904. Reef ? ? ? ? ? ? Married. Irma ? ? ? ? ? ? Married. Aunt Hattie, May and Ray are all buried in Wyuka Cemetery, Lincoln, (Nebr.) (No further information on the family after Ark's second marriage and his removal to California.) Ark owned and ran a meat market in Lincoln for years. It was located near 9th. and "O" Sts. I am told by my older brothers that he supplied meat from his market for the dining cars on the Burlington Railroad for several years. AMANDA BLUE (From the Crete News, December 12. 1924.) CRETE WOMAN PASSED AWAY. Was pioneer of Saline County and Beloved by Countless Friends- Was Charter Member of Crete M.E. Church. Mrs. Amanda Blue, beloved wife of Geo. Blue, departed this life December 12 at her home in Crete, after a short illness. She was in excellent health until last Friday. She came to Nebraska with her parents, at the age of 15, and located on a farm on Walnut Creek, which now borders Boswell Avenue. During the pioneer days, she taught school in different district is, near and around Crete. At an early age she became a Christian, and her name is on the first register of the Grace M.E. Church, of Crete, from which she never removed her membership. March 10. 1880, she was united in marriage to George Beswick Blue, of Wilber. They moved immediately to the home, west of Wilber, which Mr. Blue had prepared, and where they resided until 1917, when they moved to their beautiful home, east of Crete. She being the eldest of the family, had always mothered the younger children, and was always a connecting link in correspondence. During her illness she was much in communion with her Savior, and a favorite passage with her, being, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and ever cares for me. A token of his love He gives; A pledge of constancy." She leaves to mourn her departure a loving husband, five sisters two brothers, and a large circle of relatives and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Blue came into the neighborhood on East 13th St. as strangers. But it soon became clear that they made a business of being neighborly and friendly. All the neighbors began to feel the sweet influence of their kindly attentions and loving interest in their doings. Flowers from the beautiful old-fashioned garden, rioting in myriads of blossoms, found their way into homes, each little cluster like a friendly greeting. Little children were welcomed lovingly and departed with faces brighter and hands full of flowers. It was not long until Mr. and Mrs. Blue had added to their circle of friends, the whole community. Their home was a center, drawing people to it, by its beauty and welcome. Seldom does one see a couple so devoted and so dependent upon each other, so entirely one, taste and pursuits. It was an ideal life, they lived. Many hearts are sorrowing, with the beloved husband, in the breaking of this beautiful companionship on earth. Her life of devotion has been a blessed example to all who knew her. Her memory will never die in the hearts of her friends, Altho they miss her kindly presence. The sympathy of all who knew her, go out to the sorrowing husband and relatives. The following out of town relatives were here for the funeral: Mrs. Kentsister of Mr. Blue, Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Deems, of Omaha, Mr. and Mrs. O. Townsend and son Robert, Mrs. M. Molumby and son, Mr. and Mrs. H.B. Earl, Mr. and Mrs. R. Hatch, Mrs. J.W. Rhine, Miss Carolyn Deems, Mr. W.H. Gilleland, Mrs. G.W. Fitzsimmons, of Lincoln, George Earl and wife of Exeter, James Mitchell and Mrs. Carrie Forneyof Kansas City, and Robert Graham of St. Joseph, Mo. THE TOWNSEND FAMILY Anna Deborah Deems Born: October 11, 1858 in Pennsylvania Married: September 26, 1885 to I. Ora Townsend, Born: April 6, 1864 in Hartford City, Indiana, he died January 18, 1966. To this union four children were born. 1. Margaret Lousie Townsend Born: August 24, 1885, a Crete, Nebraska (PK NOTE on her DAR application she lists Dochester, NE as birth place.), Married: December 31, 1912, to Temple Orville Merchant (PK NOTE - on his death certificate middle name spelled Orvel) at Fremont, Nebraska, born August 5, 1888. 2. George Gleye Townsend, Born: November 10, 1890, Married: Edna Neafus, Second marriage Gladys Brandt, Died: August 1, 1963 3. Frances Adelaide Townsend, Born: January 15, 1894, Married: Bert McCauley, Second marriage: Ashley Oliver Park who died November 14, 1963. 4. Robert G. Townsend, Born: June 21, 1989, Married: Helen Davis, Died: September 3, 1946. THE MERCHANT FAMILY 1. Margaret Lousie Merchant Born: December 28, 1913, Married: October 1, 1934 to Charles Vincent Connelly, Born: March 23, 1916. Children born to this union. Margaret Ann Connelly, Born: july 2, 1945 in New York City Dennis Charles Connelly, Born: February 24, 1947 in North Platte, Nebr. John Vincent Connelly, Born: November 15, 1948 in Lincoln, Nebr. 2. Temple Orville Merchant, Jr. (PK NOTE should be Orvel), Born June 17, 1917, Married December 16, 1947 to Lois Shallow De Baak who was Born: November 30, 1919 Son: David, Born: October 5, 1952. 3. Elizabeth Adelaide Merchant, Born: January 2, 1921, Married: November 27, 1941, to Gerald Wayne Jones who was Born: August 25, 1920. Children born to this union 5. Richard Dean Jones, Born: February 16, 1942 in Beatrice Nebr. Deborah louise Jones. Born: April 26, 1949 in Buffalo, New York Steven Dale Jones, Born: July 19, 1953 in Buffalo, New York Elizabeth Ann Jones, Born: October 31, 1955 in Newton, Iowa Patricia Lynn Jones, Born: November 7, 1958, in Newton, Iowa 4. Harold I. Ora Merchant, Born: December 20, 1922, Married November 28, 1944, to May Rita Hall (PK NOTE should be Reta) who was born April 17, 1029. Children born to this union. Harold I. Ora (Hal), Born: September 7, 1945, in Lincoln, Nebr. John Thomas, Born: June 28, 1950, in Lincoln, Nebr. Lee Ellen, Born: October 2, 1952, in Red Oak, Iowa. THE GEORGE GLEYE TOWNSEND FAMILY George Gleye Townsend, Born: November 10m 1890, Married: Edna Neafus, Died: August 1, 1963 Child: John Wesley, Born: August 9, 1913, Married 3 times Child: John Wesley Jr. Born: October 26, 1944. Child: George William Townsend, Born: May 23, 1915, Married to: ?, Children William, Teresa THE FRANCES ADELAIDE TOWNSEND FAMILY Frances Adelaide Townsend, Born: January 15, 1874, Married: ?? to ? McCauley Children: Wade B. McCauley, Born: November 15, 1915, Married ?? to Elizabeth Tomes, Children David McCauley, Cynthia McCauley, Dennis McCauley, John McCauley, Katherine McCauley. Vivian Jean McCauley, Born: Febr. 3, 1920, Married March 1946 or 47 to Robert L. Wadley, Children Jeffry Park, Born: July 23, 1948; Thomas, Born: December 7, 1950. THE ROBERT G. TOWNSEND FAMILY Robert G. Townsend, Born: June 21, 1898, Married ? to Helen Davis, Born Nov. 7, ?, No Children THE MARGARET (Maggie) DEEMS MOLUMBY FAMILY Margaret Deems, Born: March 20, 1860, Married: February 2, 1887, to Henry Molumby who was born: 1858, (marriage ended in divorce), Died: May 2, 1960, Buried in Blair, Nebraska. Second marriage: to Dick Jacobs, Born: ?, Died: August 2, 1960. Children born to the first union. 1. Madge Louise Molumby, Born: ? 1888, Married: June 12, 1915 to Phillip Garnett, in Spokane, Washington, who was Birn: ? 1888 and Died: about 1960 in San Francisco. She died October ? 1937 in Spokane Washington. 2. Irene Della Molumby, presently living in Omaha, Nebraska, Born: July 31, 1892, Married: ? 1919 to Clarence Miller. Marriage ended in divorce. 3. Artilyn Molumby, Born May 4, 1894, Married ? to James W. Hunter. Marriage ended in divorce, Died: November 5, 1950. Children born to this Union James Hunter, Born: 1919 Barbara Hunter Jones, Born about 1021 Stanley Hunter, Born: about 1924. No further information on the Hunter family. 4. Amanda Ellen Molumby, lives in Orlando Florida, Born: around 1895-1896, Married: January 22, 1922 to Harley Gatewood One child born to this union Jack E. Gatewood , Born: ?, Married: February 3, 1945 to Patricia White. Two children: Robert Allan Gatewood, Born: Sept. 22, 1950; Stephen Eugene Gatewood, Born: Nov. 23, 1951. 5. Eugene H. Molumby, Born: app. 1899, Died: ? Married: Dorothea Springer. No family. FAMILY OF EMMA DEEMS AND CALHOUN GRAHAM Emma Josephine Deems, Born: October 20, 1861 in Merrittstown, Pennsylvania, Married: May 11, 1881 to Calhoun Graham in Crete, Nebr. who was born June 21, 1857, County Tyrone, Ireland and Died: August 23, 1921 in Crete, Nebraska. She died July 10, 1947 in Lincoln, Nebraska. Both are buried in Crete, Nebr. To this union seven children were born: Charles, George, Grace, Robert, Clarence. Clayton. Clara. THE CALHOUN - EMMA DEEMS - GRAHAM FAMILY Calhoun Graham, Born: June 21, 1857, in Ireland, Died Aug. 23, 1921. Emma Josephine Deems: Born: Oct. 20, 1861, in Penna. Died: July 12, 1947. Married: May 11, 1881. Charles C., Born: Febr. 19, 1882, Pleasant Hill, Nebraska, Died: Febr. 5, 1968, Married: July 3, 1903 to Mabel Douglas who died March 1964. George E., Born: May 22, 1883, Pleasant Hill, Nebraska, Died: June 14, 1958 Married: Sept. 2, 1906 to Winifred Robb who died May 1938. Grace A., Born: April 21, 1885 Crete, Nebraska, Married: May 25, 1913 to Oliver P. Monroe. Robert A., Born: December 4, 1886, Crete, Nebraska, Died: November 5, 1950, Married: Oct. 25, 1911 to Ethel Shippen. Clarence T., Born: April 23, 1888, Crete, Nebraska, Married: July 28, 1915 to Mabel Scheider who died March 1943; Married: July 14, 1956 to Margaret Conroy. Clayton N., Born: June 4, 1891, Crete, Nebraska, Married: April 28, 1915 to Mamie Williams who died Sept. 1960; Second Marriage: September 23, 1961 to Ethel Graham at Cape Cod. Clara E., Born: Jan. 6, 1898, Crete, Nebraska, Married: Sept. 25, 1917 to Edward Jeambey. MOTHER 1921 - 1947 Late in 1917 Dad and Mother had purchased a house in Crete, after they had sold the farm. This they did extensive remodeling on to make it a comfortable, adequate home for their future years. They were still young in spirit and years. Dad was then 60 years old and Mother was 56. Fate had other plans though for these two which changed things fast and cruelly, with Dad's passing away August 23, 1921 in a moment of time following a cerebral hemorrhage. Mother decided to keep the house they has so recently remade, and also remake a life for herself. Leo and Silvio Oberto were still living with her (the boys she has raised since about 1914 on the farm). But as they finished school and went back to Colorado where their father Joe Oberto lived in Telluride. Mother was alone. She finally roomed and boarded a school teacher, just so she would have company. This lasted a few years only and she was alone again. The pressure became too great living alone, after 40 years of a household of children with their noise and continuos activities, so she felt the need of change. To be sure, she was a farmer at heart and kept herself busy, having a garden and lots of flowers to care for, Her church and he club provided some activities, Aunt Margaret Bullock, Dad's sister was with her for a period of time, but all of this was not what she wanted for contentment. She decided to sell the place, which she did, and moved to Lincoln and lived in a rented place. This was about 1929 or 1930. In 1931, her grandson Russell Graham, came to stay with her. He has lived in Montana and planned to attend the University of Nebraska which he did for about two years. Complied by Clara Graham Jeambey When Russell was gone she again made a change. She stored her belongings, her furniture and all, packed her suitcase and started on a several years visitation tour. This trip took her to the different children where she would spend a few weeks at a time with each of them. Our own home was more or less her headquarters during this time. This, however, became quite tiring to her and she longed for her own home again. She used to say that if she had her own home she could unpack her suitcase and gather her furniture and belongings together again. About 1940 she went back to Lincoln to Bert's, who were then living there. Soon she found a small house, bought it and soon she was back in her own home and in the housekeeping business again, at 1741 Prospect Street. The little house needed some changes made in it, which Mother did, adding to its appearance. Again she started to work on a vegetable garden and planted lots of flowers and soon her yard was a thing of beauty and admiration. In 1944 we all went to Mother's for a family reunion. All were there with the exception of George. This was Grace's first trip back to Nebraska in 32 years. Which meant she had not been back home since her before her marriage. The money she made in the sale of the farm and the Crete house she wisely invested in farm mortgages and later the mortgages were sold and the money invested in bonds. When she passed away in 1947 the estate was settled as per her wishes, without a word of discord any of the surviving children. MOTHER'S LAST SICKNESS, JUNE 1947 Her health had been good, she raised flowers, took care of her garden, and shovelled snow whenever that was a necessity. This went on until Mother's Day in 1947, On that day she suddenly had severe pains in her abdomen. She immediately wrote me a letter which I received the next Monday or Tuesday, and I, in turn, called her immediately and found her in a very serious condition. I took the first available train to Lincoln as we lived in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, at the time. I found her in such a condition that I called the doctor at once, and after he saw her, decided that he would have to operate immediately. So the Friday after Mother's Day she had surgery. The severe pain had been caused by a duodenal ulcer which was removed, and she came out of the surgery in good shape. But the doctor also found a cancer of the liver, as he reported to Clayton and me in the hospital immediately after the operation. The doctor said that she could only live a few weeks and that the family should be called. This was done and they all came immediately. Her recovery was good; as we kept a round the clock vigil with her in the hospital, taking turns by her bedside. In about ten days she was released to go home, and after the doctor told us that she might live for a few weeks, all of the family went home, but me. I stayed to care for her. She got so she sat up some, and we even took her on an occasional car ride, but all the time Ed and I could see that she was getting weaker. The doctor did not fell that we should tell her that she had cancer, but I am sure that she must have surmized it. On several occasions she asked the doctor why she wasn't getting well, and one time said to him: "Doctor, as smart as you are why can't you do something to get me up and around again?" I was sitting by her bed one day talking to her, when she said, "Clara, I want you to tell your old Mother the truth, am I going to get well?" So I said, "No, Mother you are not." Quick as a flash she replied: "But I don't want to die yet, I have so many things I still want to do." She was 86 then and would be 87 in a few months. Jean and Bob were still at Mt. Pleasant and Ed was trying to stay with me as much as possible, so he would go to Mt. Pleasant Monday mornings and look after things there, and then return to Lincoln for the week end and preach in the Fourth Presbyterian Church which by this time had given him a call which took effect immediately. Mother's condition continued to deteriorate, but she was in no great pain at any time for which we were grateful. She had pain killers whenever necessary and usually sleeping pills. When it became more evident that the end was not far away, I called the family again. Charles could not come but the others were there or nearby when the end did come finally and peacefully on the morning of July 10. She had been very restless in the evening, so I told her she should have a sleeping pill, but she did not want to take it, saying, that if she did she would never wake up again. Finally, about midnight, she did take one and her prediction came true. But she was so near the end when she took it did not make any difference, for she had been in a coma most of the day. She had rallied once that day and sufficiently rational to sign a legal paper, July 10 she passed away. July 12, 1947, on a Saturday afternoon, funeral services were conducted for her in Trinity Methodist Church where she was a member, attended Sunday School, and belonged to a group of women who loved to do quilting. Burial was in Crete by the side of Dad and her sister Amanda Blue, and where she had come with her parents at the age of seven years. In this same cemetery lay her father, mother, brother Oliver, and two sisters, Artie Earl and Anna Townsend, Also our own three sons, Keith, Max and Richard, and now her son, Robert A. Graham, rest. And so ended her busy life, from 1861 to 1947, at 86 years of age. And her generation became history. SERVICES FOR MRS. GRAHAM (A newspaper item) Funeral Service for Mrs. Emma Graham was held in Trinity Methodist Church, Lincoln, Saturday afternoon, July 12, at 2:00 o'clock, with Rev. Howard Buxtom, officiating Clergyman. Burial was in the family plot at Riverside Cemetery, Crete. The Pall Bearers were sons, George, Robert, Clarence, Clayton, son-in-law Edward L. Jeambey, and grandson, Harold Graham. At 7:00 a.m. on July 10, 1947, Mrs. Emma Graham came to the end of a long and eventful life. She was born Oct. 20, 1861, near Merrittstown, Penna., and came with her parents, Jacob Deems and Louisa Arnold Deems, and her brothers and sisters, to Nebraska in 1868. At this time there was no city of Lincoln and no Crete. The Territorial Capital was at Brownville. Coming into the territory in a covered wagon, the Deems settled on Walnut Creek, two miles east of the present town of Crete. They were the third white family in the community. As no churches or schools were available, Mr. Deems held services in his own log house, and from this small beginning has grown the Grace Methodist Church. Early schooling was impossible, but Mrs. Graham attended the first organized school at the age of eleven, and later at the age of sixteen was enrolled in Doane College. Her father, Mr. Deems was one of the first subscribers who gave money to make that college possible. She was married to Calhoun Graham, May 11, 1881, and lived on a farm near Crete for 41 years. On this farm they reared and educated seven children, all of whom survive her. They are Charles of Canby, Orgeon; George of Bozeman, Montana; Grace G. Monroe of Canby, Oregon; Robert A. Graham of Norfork, Nebraska. Clarence T. of North Attleboro, Mass.; Clayton N. of Dorchester, Nebraska, and Clara Jeambey of Lincoln. She is also survived by 28 grandchildren and 39 great grandchildren. Mrs. Graham lived in Lincoln for the past eight years. Her husband having passed on in 1921 at Crete. The Graham family have all been active in church work and Mrs. Graham was no exception, always doing her share in the Missionary and Ladies Aid groups during her many years in the Crete Church. And carrying on as she was able in Lincoln, after having moved there. She has been a faithful worker in the Women's group since becoming a member of the Trinity Methodist Church. Mrs. Graham is also survived by one brother, R. Sherman Deems of Omaha, and two sisters, Mrs. Maggie Jacobs of Blair, and Mrs. Carrie Blue of Kansas City, and numerous nieces and nephews. AS I REMEMBER MY FATHER AND MOTHER The most outstanding feature of my father's appearance was his deep set, twinkly blue eyes/ They were always twinkling even behind his eye glasses, which were those old fashioned small lenses with gold rims - usually purchased at the 10 cent store. These, of course, were self-fitted. Dad was a small man, as were all of his family. He used to say their size was attributed to the early diet, which was mostly oatmeal. He wore number 5 shoes, if I'm not mistaken, and a full beard, from early manhood until 1917. This was always well cared for and nicely trimmed, which made him quite distinguished looking. Warm-hearted and friendly as could be and with a handshake for all. I remember one time he and mother and I were walking together on the sidewalk in Crete, and coming face to face with some strangers, Dad spoke to them with a friendly "Good day". Mother said to him: "Why did you speak to those strangers?" His reply was: "No one is a stranger if you speak to him". That was Dad. Mother was quite the opposite, reluctant and reticent, with new people, and always very proper. I think this characteristic showed through all her family. Her ancestors, the Arnolds, and the great grands, the Bishops, were all from Virginia. It may be that some of the "blue blood" family tendencies stayed with the family. They were always governed by what people would think. She saw the realistic side of life. She was a very striking girl and woman as her pictures indicate. She had dark brown eyes and brown hair that always showed a wave which later became almost white, in her late 70s and 80s. She was 86 when she died. Both parents were hard workers - they had to be in those days - there were no frills to living and no short cuts in earning the daily bread. Nevertheless they saw to it that their seven children obtained a good education in school and in the better things in life. The church life and the Christian training was also a part of their education. Any time there was anything good in town, a noted lecturer, a program, a play, or what not, if at all possible, we attended. Very rarely did we sit at our table for a meal without grace being said by Dad. And at that meal we children got what we asked for, only with a "please", and a "thank you". I never remember hearing my father "cuss". He occasionally used a word like "darn" and such, but never anything worse. There never was smoking or drinking, by any of my brothers or father, on the farm or in later life. This has been pretty much the case in the third generation, I believe, but there may have been a few exceptions. Indeed, we were a very rich family of Graham children, to have been left the legacy of good, clean. Christian parents, and their early training in our formative years. They were not perfect, but they did much to make the world a little better maybe, through their offspring, which now totals around 150 since 1881. I. ORA TOWNSEND RITES HERE AT 2 p.m. SUNDAY Funeral services for I. Ora Townsend 84 who died in Denver, Wednesday Jan. 18, 1950, will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Helmsdorrfers. Rev. Thomas Barton will officiate. Burial at Crete Cemetery. Mr. Townsend lived in Crete for years, and then for 30 years in Lincoln and Fremont before moving to Denver after his wife died in Lincoln in 1945. He was Past Commander of the Lincoln and Nebraska Posts of Sons of Veterans of the Civil War. MORE ABOUT ROBERT TOWNSEND Married: June 21, 1929 Died: Sept. 30, 1946. Heart Attack Robert was a World War I, Veteran. He served in Europe and in Mexico. After a period of service he lived in the east and I think worked in the cotton finishing mill that brother Clarence was the manager of. SHERMAN DEEMS FAMILY Robert Sherman Deems, Born: Sept. 9, 1867, Died: December 16, 1963 Mary Stewart Gilliand, Born: April 15, 1870, Died: Sept. 10, 1933 Married: June 11, 1889 Issue: 1. Son, James Harry Deems, Born: June 28, 1890, Died: 1968 2. Daughter, Sarah Maude Deems, Born: Nov. 17, 1892 3. Daughter, Denzel Elizabeth Deems, Born: Mar. 27, 1896, Died: Aug. 16, 1965 4. Son, Robert William Deems, Born: August 12, 1911 1. James Harry Deems & Maude Chelnisa Hoagland married Sept. 15, 1914 Issue: Son, James Harry Deems, Jr., Born: April 7, 1916 Daughter, Dorothy Mae Deems, Born May 25, 1921. 2. Sarah Maude Deems & Verne Louis Hurd married Oct. 17, 1916. He was born Oct. 17, 1885 Issue: Daughter, Margaret Alene Hurd, Born: June 8, 1917 Daughter, Mary Elizabeth Hurd, Born: Apr. 3, 1918 Daughter, Helen Morton Hurd, Born: May 25, 1919 Son, John Roger Hurd, Born: Sept. 25, 1921 Daughter, Denzel Theodora Hurd, Born: Febr. 23, 1925 Daughter, June Roberts Hurd, Born: Dec. 1, 1923 Son, Timothy Sherman Hurd, Born: June 10, 1929. 3. Denzel Elizabeth Deems and John Louis Franz married June 28, 1916. Issue: None. Denzel Elizabeth Deems Franz & Theodore Stowe Miles, Married: Nov. 1, 1924. Issue: None Both accidentally killed August 16, 1965. Denzel, Born: March 27, 1896; Theodore, Born: Febr. 9, 1877 4. Robert William Deems & Mary Lillian Dowell married April 6, 1944. She was born Oct. 6, 1916 Issue: Daughter, Mary Ann Deems, Born May 3, 1945 Daughter, Roberta Lee, Born Jan. 5, 1953 ************* Margaret Alene Hurd & John Hastings, Married May 10, 1938). He was born May 10, 1912 Issue: Daughter Margaret Ann Hastings, Born: Jan. 14, 1939, Married Delbert Dean Brumley Febr. 26, 1959. He was born May 27, 1934. Daughter Deborah Lynn Brumley, Born: Dec, 15, 1959; Son Terry Lee, Born: Febr. 9, 1961 Mary Elizabeth Hurd & Ray Cordas Married: 1943. He was born Sept. 23, 1908. Issue: Daughter, Gloria Rae, Born: Oct. 1, 1944; Son William Ray, Born: Sept. 16, 1948. Helen Morton Hurd & Edward Clarence Lynch Married: 1942. He was born in 1918. Issue: Son, Edward Charles Lynch. Born: Sept. 8, 1948. John Roger Hurd & Ada Stone Married: 1942. He was born June 192_. Issue: John Paul Hurd, Born: April 5, 1943; Daughter, Ada H. Hurd, Born: Dec. 9, 1944; Son, Roger, Born: Aug. 6, 1946; Son, James, Born: June 2, 1952. Denzel Theodora Hurd & Lorence F. Zielke Married: Oct. 6, 1946. Issue: Daughter, Diane Zielke, Born: Dec, 1947; Daughter, Lorain Denzel, Born: March 25, 1948. June Roberta Hurd - Single Timothy Sherman Hurd & Jean Kelly, Married : ?. She was born 1927. Issue: Michael, Aug. 15, 1949 - adopted; James, Born: July 10, 1952; Randall, born: Sept. 23, 1053; June Marie, born: Dec. 31, 1954; Daniel, born: April 17, 1958. AN INTERESTING ARTICLE FROM THE OMAHA WORLD HERALD ABOUT SOME OF SHERMAN DEEMS DESCENDANTS, DATED FEBRUARY 13. 1961. (Photo shows 4 people) Hospital Nursery Occupant Gets 4-Generation Attention Four of the five generations that begin with Robert S. Deems gather daily at the Lutheran General Hospital. Mr. Deems, 93, takes a morning walk from the Lutheran Old Peoples Home to the hospital for a cup of coffee. Upstairs his granddaughter, Mrs. Margaret Hastings, 821 South Twenty-second Street, is a nurse in the pediatrics ward. Mrs. Hastings has only to take a few steps to the obstetrics ward to visit her daughter, Mrs. Delbert Brumly, who Thursday gave birth to Terry Lee - now living in the nursery. Terry Lee is the second great-great-grandchild of Mr. Deems. Asked for the count, he replied without hesitation: "Eleven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. When Mr. Deems's daughter, Mrs. Maude Hurd, 3006 North Sixty-sixth Street, came to visit her new great grandchild Saturday, all five generations were together. Mr. Deems who retired at 86 after teaching and bookkeeping careers, took a pleased look at the newest member of the family and allowed: "He's a boy alright." ************ Uncle Sherman was a "man of books" all his life, I believe. He attended early schools in Crete, then Doane College of Crete. From this he became a school teacher, having taught in Swanton, Nebraska, and several other places before going west to McCook in Frontier County with his parents and two younger sisters, Carrie and Artie, sometime in the late 1887-88. Here he again taught school, and also met and married Mary Gilliland in 1889. I don't know when they moved back here, but they lived a number of years in Omaha before his retirement. I believe he was the bookkeeper at the "port of entry" at Omaha. He, as I remember hearing him say, that he did this job without eye glasses even as an old man. Uncle Sherman was quite a man - we called on him often in his declining health while in the hospital and as well at a rest home, and always loved to visit with him, as his mind was still sharp. He lived until December 16, 1963, making him 96 years of age. He was about a year old when he was brought to Crete from Pennsylvania. (The above was written by Clara Jeambey.) Denzel Deems - additional Denzel and her husband were both instantly killed in a tragic accident when they ran into a freight train early in the morning as they were returning from a visit to brother Jim's in Minnesota, August 16, 1965. Denzel usually did the driving but this morning Ted was driving. They had bought a new car and he wanted to try it out. He was very hard of hearing, and they were facing a very bright early morning sun. It was thought they hit the train broadside. ************* Mary Gilliand Deems Mary S. Deems died September 10, at her home 1005 No. 49 Omaha, Nebr. She was 63 years of age. Mrs. Deems is survived by her husband R. Sherman Deems; her sons J. H. of Moorehead, Minn., Robert W. of Omaha; her daughters Mrs. Maude Hurd and Mrs. Denzel E. Miles of Omaha; her brother W. H. Gilliand of Lincoln, E. H. and J. W. of Curtis, Nebr.; her sister Mrs. S. E. Herrick, Fontenelle, Iowa. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. from the Burket Chapel 3405 Farnam. Interment at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Mrs. Deems was born April 15, 1870 and died September 10, 1933. *********** JOHN E. DEEMS John E. Deems, Life long carpenter and miner, Born: August 11, 1863, Married: June 23, 1911, to Nell Rhine (ended in divorce); One child: Caroline Deems, Born: ? Second Marriage: to Katherine ?; Two sons: Names unknown (One may be Raymond) He died April 7, 1942; Buried April 10, 1942 at Silverton Oregon at age 78. ************ THE FORNEY FAMILY (No Information) The family of: Carrie Deems and Denver Forney (Ended in divorce). She was born Febr. 5, 1870. His birth date unknown; Married: April 9, 1893. Children: Helen Forney - not married; Richard Forney - married; Louise Forney - married. Parties have always lived in Kansas City, Mo. And Kansas area. Efforts to obtain information in vain. Second marriage to George Blue (Widower of sister Amanda). He was born October 7, 1850, died April 6, 1943. ************ CATHERINE ARTIMESIA DEEMS AND HARRY EARL FAMILY Catherine Artimesia Deems, Born: October 2, 1873, in Crete, Nebraska, Married: January 17, 1894 in Wilbur to Harry Burdette Earl. He was born December 26, 1867 in Monroe, Ill. He died December 8, 1949 in Lincoln. She died January 6, 1930, Lincoln, Nebraska. Both are buried in Crete, Nebraska. To this union six children were born: Harry B. Jr., Clara Louise, Robert Arnold, Dorothy Amanda, George B., Grace Edna. 1. Harry B. Earl, Retired from the Western Electric Co., Married: October 3, 1917 to Alma Marthas. Ended in Divorce. Two sons were born of this union: Richard Duane, Born: Sept. 12, 1920, Married November 20, 1943 to Helen Preditt - no family. Frederick Cyril, Born: October 12, 1922 - Single. Second Marriage for Harry B. Earl, Divorce - no family. 2. Clara Louise Earl, Born: May 5, 1896, Married: May 18, 1926 to James Lynn Pantier. He was born October 27, 1900 and died Sept. 11, 1968. Two adopted children constituted family. She died July 23, 1961 at Montandon, Penna. Both Clara and her husband are buried in Montandon, Penna. Children: Earl Arthur Pantier, Born: April 17, 1932, Married: June 2, 1957 to Berit. One daughter died in infancy. Anne Louise Pantier, Born: July 22, 1960, Died: July 22, 1960; Caroline Amy Painter, Born: October 15, 1968 Claralyn Pantier, Born: January 7, 1936, Married: Sept. 9, 1954, to Gerald Rockwell. Ended in divorce. To this union four children were born: Dale Allen Rockwell, Born: May 9, 1956; Gerri Lynne Rockwell, Born: July 25, 1957; Jay Kevin Rockwell, Born Nov. 29, 1958; Susan Diane Rockwell, Born: Sept. 12, 1960. 3. Robert Arnold Earl, Born: April 25, 1898, Married: June 6, 1920 to Zeulah Archer; one daughter: Betty Jean, Born: August 18, 1924, Single. 4. Dorothy Amanda Earl, Born: October 17, 1899, Married: October 1, 1921 to Ray Hatch. He was born Febr. 12, 1898. Two sons were born to this union, Dale and Dean. Dale Hatch, Born: Febr. 14, 1927, Married: to Shirley Roland. Divorced. Two children were born to this union, Allen and Debbie; Allen Hatch, Born: 1949; Debbie Hatch, Born: 1951. Second marriage to Retha Waggoner Dec. 15, 1954. Divorced. Three children were born to this union. Dori Lee, Born: August 15, 1957; Gerald Lee, Born: December 19, 1858; David Neal, Born: April 24, 1963. Third marriage to Audrey Yochum. Dean Lee Hatch, Born: April 1, 1965, Married to Judy Swartz, Nov. 7, 1965. Her children are: Brian, Scott and Craig. Three sons were born to this union: Dale Ray, Born: June 22, 1966; Mark Daniel, Birn: April 13, 1968; Kent Patrick, Born: May 29, 1969. 5. George Blue Earl, Born: May 4, 1901, Married: to Frances Wadman, March 3, 1924. Divorced. Five children were born to this union: Max Arnold, Born: July, 1925 Rex Dean, Born: June 6, 1929 Lenord Burdette, Born: January 6, 1931 George, Born: ? Donald Paul, Born: November 13, 1945 Second Marriage to Velma Gess Miller, Febr. 6, 1971. 6. Grace Edna Earl, Born: May 8, 1907, Married;: June 17, 1926 to Carl John Isaacson. No family. ******************* CATHERINE A. DEEMS EARL Catherine Artimesia Deems was born October 2, 1873. She was the youngest in the family of Louisa and Jacob Deems. Catherine and her older sister Carrie were born in the log and sod house of her parents, located east of what is now Crete, Nebraska. For reasons not known by her children Catherine was always called "Artie" by her family. None of her children recall hearing much about their mother's childhood. Once in a while she might retell stories of Indians coming to the Deems home asking for chickens when those they had already stolen were quite visible under the blankets they were wearing. There was also a story of Carrie catching a pony from a derailed circus train not far from the Deems home. We can only assume there must have been some fun along with the difficult times for Artie was a joyful person. Artie, Carrie and Sherman accompanied their parents to Curtis, Nebr. when Jacob Deems decided to move west. Their mother passed away a short time after this western trek and was brought back to Crete for burial. Jacob Deems gave up his western land. The two girls and their father returned to Wilbur with the family belongings - the girls driving the covered wagons. Sherman remained in Curtis. These years were never mentioned by Artie and they must have been a painful experience. She was seventeen years old when her mother died. Artie and Carrie lived with their oldest sister, Amanda Blue. Both were enrolled at Doane College and after he graduation Artie was sent to Lincoln where she attended the Nebraska School of Music. She was an accomplished musician and a fine vocalist with a lovely alto voice which made her a welcome addition to church choirs and as a soloist at special events. She taught both the organ and piano, but none of us know for how long - perhaps until she was married. Artie Deems and Harry Earl were married Jan. 18, 1894 at the home of her sister Amanda. The Earls were also a pioneer family coming to Nebraska in 1879 where they settled on a homestead five miles east of what is now Dorchester. Artie and Harry lived in the original homestead house built by his father, Willard Wheaton Earl. Five of their six children were born there; Harry, Clara, Robert, Dorothy and George. (A picture of this house is in the family album.) Grace was born after the family moved to a farm near Dorchester - (this farm being known as the Thompson place). Artie and her husband attended the Methodist Church. There is no date of membership for Artie, however, Harry was received into the membership of the Crete Methodist Church Sept. 16, 1891. They moved to a farm one mile west of Exeter, Nebr. And the family were all members of the Exeter Methodist Church. Artie sang in the choir and taught a girls Sunday School class and for a number of years Harry was the Sunday School Supt. The earl home was a gathering place for friends of all ages with lawn parties still remembered by the youngest daughter who was fascinated by the Japanese lanterns strung through the trees surrounding the yard, the gallons of homemade ice cream and the gigantic cakes of every description. Artie was a very attractive person with her almost white hair, black eye brows, green eyes and tall trim figure. Although her wardrobe was not extensive she always looked well dressed. Combined with a genuine concern for her guests, her energy in getting things done and her fun loving nature, she was a popular hostess. Along with her other accomplishments she was an excellent seamstress and must have made and remade dozens of dresses for her three daughters. Being musical herself, she coaxed everyone in the family to sing, play the organ or piano. She taught her two youngest daughters to give quite a respectable account of themselves at the piano and arranged, later, for both of them to have lessons with professional teachers. Convinced their family should be closer to better educational facilities the Earls moved to Lincoln, Nebraska in 1917. There they became members of Grace Methodist Church. Artie sang in the choir and was involved in all of the womens activities. During World War I Artie knitted yards of scarves and made dozens of kits for the army. Harry was a member of a church group called "the Minute Men" who made speeches all over the city raising funds for defense bonds. He also took his turn with the church men at the Y.M.C.A. serving doughnuts and coffee to service men. Early in the 1920's Artie's health became a problem. Due to a heart condition (leakage of a heart valve) her activities were drastically curtailed. She was an invalid for five years and became bedfast in 1928. The progress of her ailment made ordinary eating impossible and she lived on canned milk and celery for what must have been two miserable years. However, no one ever heard a word of complaint from her. She bore her illness with quiet dignity and remarkable courage, plus a determination not to be a burden to the family, especially the two daughters who came home to care for her. Every minute of the visits with her sisters and brother were such a pleasure for her as well as the times when her nieces and nephews came to call. Best of all she look forward to the hours she could spend with her own sons, daughters and grandchildren. Artie passed away at 9:30 Monday evening, January 6, 1930, with all of her family at her bedside. She had written a list of instructions as to arrangements she wished made. As she requested her services were held in the Castle, Roper and Matthews Chapel, January 9, with Rev. Overdeer officiating. Catherine Artimesia Deems Earl and Harry Burdette Earl, Sr. are buried in the Cemetery at Crete, Nebraska, not far from the resting place of Mary and Willard Wheaton Earl. ****************** There is a xerox picture of Jacob Deems with the following caption: Grandfather. In the Crete M.E. Church 40th anniversary booklet, 1909. His last picture. Jacob Deems, First Class Leader, 1869. Also a xerox picture of S. R. Foss, Present Class Leader, 1909. ***************** Article from the Crete News, Thursday November 6, 1969 (Front page, above the fold, includes a picture of the church) Methodist Church to Note 100th Anniversary Grace United Methodist Church will celebrate its 100th anniversary during special services next Sunday. Morning worship services are scheduled for 10 a.m.. No Sunday School classes will be held. A fellowship dinner will be held at noon with afternoon services scheduled to follow. Several former pastors will return for the occasion, and will have a part in the day's services. Delivering the morning address will be Noah Moore of Lincoln, Bishop of Methodist Churches in Nebraska. Also participating will be Dr. John Wichet, District Superintendent; the Rev. Bert Bessure of Lincoln,, the Rev. Cecil B. Green of Valentine and the Rev. Richard Atherton of Blair, all former pastors here, and Dr. Merton D. Wyatt, present pastor. Stewart Nelson will preside at the fellowship dinner. During this time letters will be read from non-resident members, former ministers, members and friends. Also on the program are remarks by visiting ministers, their wives and friends. Mrs. E. L. Jeamby of Lincoln, a granddaughter of one of the church founders will recount early history of the church. Her grandfather, Jacob Deems, was the first class leader of the Methodist church here. Early meetings were held in his home northeast of the city limits. Special music is planned for each of the services. The church has published a historical booklet to commemorate the day. It will be distributed at Sunday morning services. A historical feature of the church appears on the first page of the second section of this newspaper. ****************** 2nd article from the same paper. Methodist Milestones Noted in 100-Year History By Mac Sack Northeast of Crete, visible from the highway, stand the blue roofed home and buildings owned by August Kahle. Under the white siding are the walnut logs of a cabin built by pioneer when he homesteaded over 100 years ago, In the basement may be seen the walnut logs cut in half length wise which are used for supports. In this log cabin began Crete Methodism. Or so some accounts indicate. However, in Church Landmarks of Oct. 17, 1954 it states "in 1866, a presiding elder from Lincoln by the name of J. G. Miller, who was scouting in Saline County held meetings in a dugout north of the present Crete near the fork of the North and West Blue rivers." FIRST CLASS There is agreement that the log house previously mentioned was built by one Jacob Deems and that here the first class organized by L. Oliver, a circuit riding preacher, in May 1869 met. Jacob Deems was the first class leader and ministers often stopped here. DEEMS HOME This 16 x 16 log house was built in 1868 by Jacob and Louisa Arnold Deems, the third white family to settle in the Crete area. This couple and their oldest daughter, Amanda Deems (Blue) were charter members of the Methodist Church. (Public spirited Mr. Deems made the first pledge for the construction of Merrill Hall at Doane and his daughter Emma Deems (Graham) was on of the college's first students. FIRST SERMON William M. Worley, the junior preacher on the circuit, gave his first sermon in this area, on the second Sunday in May 1869. This service was held at the home of John Lee. The year Worley served this area he received $63 from the Missionary Society and $11 from the circuit. Before the congregation could build a church they met first in homes, later in a deserted store building, located about where the Post Office now stands and finally in the old east school house. FIRST BUILDING In 1874 the cornerstone was laid for a church built on the site of the present Crete Power plant. Eighteen seventy five, during the pastorate of James K. Maxwell, the one room brick church, seating 150 people was built. The name "Grace: which it still bears, was in memory of a little girl, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. J. F. Reed. The Reeds were "pillars" of that first church. Up to this point the membership had increased steadily but at this time the circuit was divided and the record shows a membership of only thirty four. Over the years the building became unsafe, and it was decided in 1887 that a new and more commodious church should be built. The numbers hardly warranted the construction of a new building. However, Crete had at that time men whose foresight outweighed their hindsight. A goal of $11,000 was set with a building composed of Fay, White, Reed and Calkins appointed to solicit subscriptions for the new church. PROCEED WITH BUILDING When the Board of Trustees met in May 1887 it was found that $4,000 had been subscribed. The board moved that "we immediately proceed to the erection of a church". Dedicated March 12, 1888 by Bishop Warren, the church still had its struggle with debt. Eighteen ninety one found a mortgage if $3,000 hanging over it in addition to a floating indebtedness amounting to another $3,0000. At the beginning of this century the church was finally free from debt. A connecting link between the present church and the original is the old pulpit in use today as a prie Dieu for bridal couples. For a great many years the church did not have a parsonage. In 1896 Mrs. C. C. White gave the church a home, to be used as a parsonage. REMODELING The original frame steeple was removed in 1909 and partially replaced by a brick structure. It has served since as a classroom. During the following years an organ was installed. The present parsonage was erected in 1915 and the church was remodeled in 1931. Due to an increase in Sunday Scholl enrollment following World War II, the church constructed a basement annex in 1958 to provide more Sunday School rooms in addition to kitchen facilities. i TABLE OF CONTENTS Transcribed by Margaret Ann Connelly Karol March 1999 Transcribed by Margaret Ann Connelly Karol March 1999 Page 40 Transcribed by Margaret Ann Connelly Karol March 1999