NOKOMIS CENTENNIAL

1856 - 1956

CENTENNIAL HISTORY

OF NOKOMIS, ILLINOIS

1856 - 1956

%OKOMIS

daughter of the Moon FOREWORD

Men in America were moving with the sun. In the 1850's, western lands could still be had for $8 to $12 an acre. Tillage began and the other arts followed. Nokomis came to be.

This Centennial History calls up long forgotten scenes and the peculiar sadness of remembered sounds. It records those illuminated moments which stand out fresh and vivid after many years.

Many a Seth Thomas clock still watches the pano- rama of the years, remembering a day when the sky was blue, Nokomis was young and people wished to be remembered.

This is not a complete record, but we offer it with a feeling of pride and affection for all who have had a part, no matter how small, and those who expect to have a part, no matter how far in the distant future. 917,

OUR TOWNS CENTENNIAL

- It is a resurrection of the past An open book spread out before our eyes With narratives that history amassed For decades which today we dramatize. The horse and buggy, oil-lamp days provide The setting for events, when swishing skirts And bearded faces ruled the day with pride - A simple life, our story-book asserts. But simple life which we naively claim For those days had its conflicts; as these met With conquest, retrospective glory came Which magnifies itself in our minds, yet. As we leaf through the pages of this book, We overtake ourselves, for we are there - A part of us - and we find, as we look, Contemporaries on life's thoroughfare. These chapters bring us up to date on friends, Revealing lights and shades along the way - Continued stories with their various ends That happened on the edge of yesterday. As nineteen-fifty-six begins the sequel To this centennial Nokomis story, Will tempos which frontiers could never equal Add smarter, new dimensions to our glory?

Meda G. Pennepacker Casler, Duluth, Minn. Centennial Committee Chairmen Jack Sale, Glen Loomis, Monroe Berns, Howard Case, Mildred Barnstable, Frank Berns, Alana Dasovich, Wilbur Herzog, Chris Hugener, Melba Johnson. LaRue Hugener, Walter Fricke, Anita Stanley, Stella Yackle. CENTENNIAL COMMITTEES Previous Entertainment Frank J. Berns - President. Woman's Club and Sorority. Monroe Berns - Vice-president. Pageant Alana Dasovich - Secretary. LaRue Hugener, Chairman, Esther Howard Case - Treasurer. Nantkes, Salena Mack, Dorcus Thornhill, Beard And Dress American Legion Past Commander Club. Jack Sale, Chairman, Lela Schwartzle, Violet Zueck, Anita Vercellone, Anita Stan- Alene Layel, Gladys Bottomley, Ella Sale, ley, Jack Swarbrick. Joe Kocur, George Pehanich, George Fuller- Outside Publicity ton, Alva Grauer, Steve Milavec, and Ken- C. F. Marley. neth Singler. Souvenirs

Publicity - Local Rodell Satterfield, Wayne Bagley, and Walter Fricke, Edward Ovca, Co-chair- George Sale. men. Street Decorations QUEEN - PROMOTIONAL Howard Bell. Melba Johnson, Chairman, Alana Daso- Centennial Book vich, Rita Miles, Patricia Bixby, Georgette Mildred Barnstable, Stella Yackle, Co- Benya, Rose Johnson, Lucille Viola, Marie chairmen, Mary Archibald, Ed Vandever, Kettelkamp, Alene Layel, Nelda Bracken- LaRue Hugener, Esther Nantkes, Walter hoff, June Obregar, and Pauline Berns. Fricke, Arnold Woltmann, Emory Weakley, Parade Elmer Eddington, Charlotte Eekhoff, and Violet Moeller, Lee Dawson, Co-chair- Mildred Fearn. men, George Priddle, Guy H. Wharton, Parking Ralph Scheller, Leslie Sperry, Ed Gould, Glen Loomis. Mary Collebrusco, Joy Keller, Dean Gould, Electric and Evelyn Johnson. Chris Hugener. Carnival Grounds Wilbur Herzog and Clarence Wright. James Guyot. Eats Tents Theresa Tosetti and Erma Arkebauer. Fred Kettelkamp and Howard Case. HISTORY OF NOKOMIS

Where a man found himself, he farmed according to soil, climate and market.

Where the sturdy pioneer family found itself, it carved a home.

These good neighbors, whether farmers, merchants, millers, doctors, poets, photographers, ministers, peddlers, to- gether with their wives, daughters and sweethearts lived here and loved this community they worked together to build a town worthy to last a hundred years.

Today we are challenged with the thought "looking back- ward is futile unless it illuminates the future." EARLY HISTORY OF NOKOMIS ship was one-sixth m timber of oak, elm, and several varieties of maple and hickory. Up to the beginning of the nineteenth Bluford Shaw was the first settler in century little progress was made in extend- Township, who lived here with his ing the frontier beyond a small strip on the Nokomis 1840. In 1843 High- eastern seaboard. There were a few ven- family prior to Hugh section 33 and built the first turesome souls who pushed west and brought tower settled in boundaries of the township. back glowing accounts of the possibilities of house within the were R. N. Lee, the regions lying in the valley of the Missis- Following Mr. Hightower William Bonton, Absolom sippi and Missouri Rivers. In 1763 a settle- John Wetmore, William Andrew- ment was made by the French at Cahokia Van Hoosier, Lee and living just north of and another at Kaskaskia; these two were the Coiner. John Whitmore, first Justice beginning of what was to become Illinois, the present city limits, was the the first Constable was which gots its name from the Algonquin of the Peace and Indian word Illini which means "perfect and J. W. Hancock. accomplished man." Illinois as a common- The first sermon was preached in No- wealth remained part of Virginia until 1787 komis township by Rev. J. L. Crane, a when it was conceded to the Northwest Ter- Methodist Episcopal minister. The Baptist ritory and continued so until 1800. By this congregation was organized in 1856, with time there were enough settlers to make a Rev. Hueston as pastor. History tells that separate territorial government possible, so the Lutherans were active in this community Illinois was admitted to the Union in 1818. as early as 1852 in Audubon Township; the After the admission, a county was made Daniel Easterday family, from Jefferson called Bond which included what is now County, Ohio, was the first to come, and Rev. Montgomery County. Montgomery looked D. D. Swaney was the first minister. Within to the Legislature to afford them some relief a few years the Lutherans moved to the new from the cumbersome machinery engendered town of Nokomis, where St. Mark's Lutheran by the large area forming Bond County. In Church was established. 1821 the Legislature approved an act creating Other denominations established them- Montgomery County. selves in Nokomis in the years to come, and From the first obtainable information it more detailed information will be found is conceded that the Kickapoos were the elsewhere. most numerous tribe in this county. The The first school is said to have been first white settlement was made in this taught by Henry Lower, at his residence in county in 1816, the settlers coming from 1848. It was a private school supported by Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky, the Carolinas, subscriptions. The first school house was and Ohio. The soil was remarkably fertile. built in 1853 near the former Jacob Haller About 1834 the town of Audubon was farm south of the city. It is said that some laid out, lots sold, and stores opened. The of the original lumber is at present in the colonists went so far as to build a court- Oak Grove school still standing near the house but the people refused to aid their ef- farm. forts and the investors saw they were losing The first road through Nokomis was money so dissolution was inevitable. Other known as the Nokomis-Hillsboro road and towns in more favorable surroundings suc- was laid out in a northeasterly direction. ceeded and, as the Spirit of Progress is never Today it is our main street and an important actually crushed, the spirit of these towns State Highway which was paved in 1923. continued to live and as Hamilton and Wood- The first railroad was the Alton and side became Hillsboro, so Audubon became Terre Haute and the first train rolled over Nokomis. its tracks in 1855. Since that time the rail- There is no better township in the county road property has changed hands several in productivity than Nokomis. Here are the times and is now the property of the New best stockraising and marketing in the York Central. The tracks of the New York county. In its natural state, Nokomis Town- Central are also used by the Chicago and Presidents oi the board of trustees or mayors down through the years follow: C. 11. Schaper, G. H. Upstone.*Thomas Trif- fet, H. M. Randle, John Hukill, John Noli mann, J. H. Weinstein, Nick Singer, Dr. W. C. Hovey, A. O. Kettelkamp. V. C. Singler,

F. Kroeger, A. J. Eekhoff, S. B. Brow i Jenkins. Frank Yackle, A. E. Vandeve Virgil Adams, Kenneth Kellerman, and th< present mayor, Homer Stanley. Currenl commissioners are Gerald G. Cain. Alvin Hagemeier, Primo Tosetti and Clarence Hard. Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Schaper The appointed officers include T. H. First President of Board of Trustees Harrison, city clerk; Lee Dawson, city treas- urer; Andrew Cibulka. supt. of water; Robert Eastern Illinois railroad passing through Bowes, chief of police and John Price, supt. Nokomis and directly into St. Louis. of streets. A station was established in Nokomis in March 27, 1869, the charter was amend- 1856, which was the beginning of Nokomis ed by a special act of the legislature. At this as a place of importance, and now one of the time the city had a population of 700 people, most beautiful small cities of South Central three churches, ten stores and such indus- Illinois. It was platted and surveyed by P. C. tries usually found in places of comparable Huggins of Bunker Hill, and Captain Samuel size. Ryder of Alton, in the fall of 1856. In 1927 Nokomis adopted a commission first mercantile establishment The was form of government which is in force today. opened by Oliver Boutwell the year the rail- * * * • road was completed. In 1857 the first black- THE NAMING OF NOKOMIS smith shop was put in operation by A. Swords As to the naming of Nokomis several of Audubon, who also operated a wayside different legends are available. One is of inn to accomodate the traveling public. A Mrs. Anasa Barry of Alton, who so loved the Mr. Hart built the first hotel in 1859, the poem, "Hiawatha", by Longfellow, that she Eureka, located on Front Street. Mr. Hart so named the town. was also a lumber merchant. Another is the story of a certain tribe Dr. Welch moved from Audubon in 1857 of Indians who came to the settlement and to Nokomis put out his physician's sign and camped in what is known now as Schaefer's to practice medicine. Grove. The name of the chief was Nokomis The first marriage recorded in this town- and so the town was named. ship was that of J. W. Hancock and Miss Another, humorous and probably un- Margaret Meritt, in 1853; the second one was founded, is one of a traveler staying over of Mr. Borar and Miss Margaret Hightower, night in the unnamed village; upon arriving also in 1853. he asked for a comb. When he was told The first undertaker was George Culp. there was no comb, he named the village * * * * No-kom-us. However, the first legend men- NOKOMIS INCORPORATED tioned is most generally accepted. The Village of Nokomis was incorporated * * * * and received her charter March 9, 1867. EARLY ORDINANCES The first board of trustees were C. H. Whoever shall, within the limits of Schaper, president; A. H. Draper, clerk; N. M. Nokomis or within one mile of the corporate Belnap, treasurer; E. K. Brighton, constable limits, sell, barter, exchange or give away and street commissioner; B. W. Henderson, any cigarette or package of cigarettes, will be assessor. fined not less than $5.00 or more than $10.00 Nokomis Electric Plant for each offense. No railroad company, conductor, engi- neer, or other employee of such company, managing or controlling any locomotive, car, or train shall run or permit to be run, within the limits of said city, at a greater speed of more than 10 miles per hour, under penalty of not less than $10.00 or more than $100.00 for each offense. That it shall be unlawful for any person or persons to play at any game of baseball on any grounds within the corporate limits of the Town of Nokomis on Sunday. Any person violating this ordinance shall be fined in any sum not less than three dollars nor more than ten dollars and cost of suit. • * * * 1870 CENSUS The U. S. Government census of 1870 First Nokomis Water Tower showed there were 223 voters in the town- cattle, ship, 144 dwellings, 185 farms, 534 horses, 2544 voters, 152 farms, 509 swine, 1504 130 mules, 240 sheep, 239 swine, 3784 bushels 21,688.91 acres of improved land. of wheat, 3786 bushels of corn, 803 cattle. * * * * There were 16,667 acres of improved land in BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL Nokomis township at the time of the census. DIRECTORY In 1950 the census showed there were In the June 21, 1889 issue of the Free Nokomis

Railway Station

Press a complete Business and Professional Collier, Manning & Hillis, Sid Hilton, R. directory of Nokomis was published: Robinson, F. M. Sawyer, Pufeles & Diamond, The Free Press, Nims & Ridler, G. S. Mrs. H. N. Randie, H. W. Belnap, F. J. Pann- Upstone, J. Carstens & Son, Dr. T. J. Whit- witt, M. E. Tuohy, H. M. Todd, Fred Law, ten, Hartsock & McGrew, Arthur Jordan, J. F. Utley, J. P. Brandt, J. W. Russell, Blue & Plummer, Paddock, Greenman & Co., George DeTroy, William Sides, B. R. Steel, Nokomis National Bank, S. Denman & Co.. J. Woltmann Co., Atty. T. M. Jett, Farley & Dr. B. F. Green, F. C. Bender, J. F. Murray Monaghan, Dr. J. M. Sprinkle, C. H. McCau- & Son, W. P. Blue, J. Brenner, W. F. Neislar, ley, Dr. P. L. Freeland and J. M. Davis. A. M. Edwards, J. Smith, Wesley Birt. W. B. * * * * Evans, George Sippell, John Jones, Kerr ELECTRIC POWER Brothers, G. R. Spannagel & Son, E. W. On September 29. 1894, George Bliss Tooley & Co., Nick Singer, Atty. D. H. Zepp, and R. E. Cornelius were granted a permit G. Fleck, A. F. Weaver, Griffin Brothers, to use the streets, alleys, and avenues of the light George Culp, J. K. Smith & Son, Edmund City of Nokomis to construct an electric

Early Nokomis

Telephone Exchange

Hazel Hilt

Josephine Schaefer

Julia Epley Leona Kinney Marcella Buel established at this plant, including poles and wires, maintaining A station was at once and operating the same for light, power and place, which was the foundation and begin- water supply. ning of Nokomis as a village. A building was erected at the present It was in 1903 that the Big Four Rail- Central, an site of the Green Gables Cafe on West State road, now the New York made they shortened their St. by a company organized and incorporated arrangement whereby under the name of The Nokomis Electric line to St. Louis, diverging from the old line Light and Power Co.; the officers at that at Hillsboro taking a direct course to St. time were George Bliss, president; A. J. Louis, and leasing the use of the tracks to Williford, vice-president; J. H. Paddock, the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad, from secretary; and George Schaper, treasurer. Pana to St. Louis. Merchants' Later J. H. Crickenberger became the presi- In a talk L o the Nokomis dent, W. H. Casselberry, vice-president and Association during 1946, the late George on S. B. Brown, treasurer. Schaper related his coming to Nokomis locomo- It was in 1912 that the home-owned plant the train pulled by a wood burning was sold to the present owners, the Central tive. Nokomis at that time had no depot but Illinois Public Service Co. an office was provided in the eld Nokomis * * * * Hotel building where tickets cculd be pur- WATERWORKS chased. Long cords of wood were piled The present up-to-date water system of where the trains tock water and horse power used to pump water from the well to the Nokomis is an outgrowth of a special ordi- was tank. Mr. Schaper came to Nokomis in 1865. nance passed on August 6, 1894, authorizing the city council to make all necessary con- * * * * tacts for the purpose of prospecting for water THE TELEPHONE and ascertaining whether or not there would It was on December 10, 1895 that Will- be sufficient water to warrant the city iam A. Howett, Jacob J. Frey and Charles A. council to put in a system of water works. Ramsey of Hillsboro were authorized to There was found to be an adequate supply in erect and maintain a telephone line into and the form of a great lake under the city. Bonds through the City of Nokomis. were authorized to be issued to erect, con- The Peoples Mutual Telephone Co. was struct, and maintain a system of water works organized in 1902 and operated until 1930 to supply fire protection and for the use of when the two companies consolidated under the inhabitants. the present name of the Illinois Consolidated Since the humble beginning of the city Telephone Co. water system in 1894, the city has kept * * * * abreast of the times by making many im- POSTMASTERS provements for this famous underground Nokomis was first recognized as a settle- supply of water. There is now a city-owned ment of importance when the United States water plant system with 300,000 gallons Government established a station here for available in daily production; a modern the receiving, distributing, and transmitting intake and filtration plant, state inspected mail. The man placed in charge of the sta- and approved; a water pressure of 60 pounds tion was called the postmaster. The first per square inch; a municipally owned sewer- postmaster was Oliver Boutwell, who served age treatment and disposal plant, adequate for two years. He was superseded by H. F. to meet all requirements. Rood in 1858 who held the post for three * * * * years. In 1861 W. F. Mulkey was put in RAILROADS charge of the office for one year, when Mr. The railroad at this place now known Rood was reappointed and served until 1864. as the New York Central was first known as Thomas Judson superseded him and served the Alton and Terre Haute Railroad. The until 1865 when another turn in the govern- first train to run through Nokomis from ment machinery put in D. P. Brophy. Mr. Alton to Terre Haute was on Januarv 8, 1855. Brophy held the office until 1888 when M. E. —10- provision enacted under the authority of the new Constitution of 1848, and affecting all counties in the state, a county judge with two justices of the peace, sitting as a county court, was declared to possess all jurisdiction and power as conferred on the county com- missioners' court. Although the Constitution of 1848 had provided that counties might, if they so minded, elect to be governed under a township form of government, the admin- istration of Montgomery County remained in the hands of the county court until that Constitution of Nokomis Post Office body was abolished by the 1870. Touhy was appointed for a four-year term, The Constitution of 1870 also gave the Robert Gelly began a four-year term. then county electorate a choice between two forms At its close John Monaghan got the plum, of government: a board of county commis- holding it for a four-year term, to be succeed- sioners composed of three members elected ed by Charles F. Best. Mr. Best had hanging at large in the county, or a board of super- on qualities and continued to grace the office visors elected one from each township. At 1915 when he was "ousted" to make until an election held in 1872 the voters chose the for A. J. Eekhoff, who served 1913-1921. way township form of government and the county During Mr. Eekhoff's term of office, resi- was divided into townships; Nokomis held its dential delivery was inaugurated. In 1921, first election for supervisor, electing John H. the political complexion of our nation was Beattv, 1873-1876; then came James M. Kerr, changed and A. O. Kettelkamp took the 1874, 1881, 1882; Robert R. Kerr, 1877-1878; position of postmaster and served from 1921 L. A. Swaney 1879; E. S. Smalley 1880; John 1934. During 1934 Mr. Eekhoff again be- to Carstens, 1883-1886; Henry A. Best, 1887- came the postmaster and served until his 1888; F. M. Sawyer, 1889, 1907; Garrett Car- death in 1940. It was during Mr. Eekhoff's stens, 1890-1897; John Hukill, 1898-1899; term that the government purchased second George H. Webster, 1900-1901; R. T. Pad- property from Edwin Pannwitt and Mrs. dock, 1908-1909; D. H. Best, 1910-1916; A. E. Layer, on Pine Street, as a site for the Fred Vandever, 1918-1928; Roy Kessinger, 1928- new postoffice building. Work on the new 1930; William Schaefer, 1930-1937; Walter building was started early in 1940 and com- Fricke, 1937-1949; Adam Adams, 1949-1953; pleted in 1941, at which time the postoffice L. W. Woltmann, the present supervisor, was moved to the present site. was elected in 1953 for a four-year term. Shortly after Mr. Eekhoff's death, During the period April 1921-April 1943 Charles Ed. Schaefer was appointed acting Nokomis was entitled to assistant super- postmaster, serving in that capacity until visors; Harold A. Arnold was the first to be August 16, 1941, when Mrs. A. J. Eekhoff elected, followed by John Bottomley Sr., was made postmaster and served until Sep- Merle Wright, Loren L. Lohr, Albert Miller, tember 30, 1949, when she resigned. Walter C. Fricke, and Lloyd Davis. Following Mrs. Eekhoff's resignation organ- Darwin Gibson was the acting postmaster Present members of the township supervisor; and served until July 13, 1951, when Guy ization include L. W. Woltmann, Jesse Wharton, the present postmaster, was ap- Mrs. Genevieve S. Holmes, clerk; Homer pointed. Eekhoff, highway commissioner; * * * * Schaefer, assessor; George Fullerton, Milton SUPERVISORS Kettelkamp, Edward Pilgrim and Henry peace. The Con- The affairs of the county of Montgomery Stanley, Justices of the Kottwitz, were in the hands of the county commission- stables are Nick Ruppert, Guido Farrelly. ers' court until 1849, when by a legislative John Bottomley and Frank An item of interest regarding the period in which the county was under the commis- sion form of government: The first indus- tries to be established in Montgomery were taverns and general stores. These were li- censed by the county board, the fees, $3 to $6 per year for taverns, and from $10 to $12 for retail businesses, contributing to the county revenue. Ordinarily taverns were public service enterprises comparable to our mod- Nokomis Pumping Station & Water Softener ern hotels. Travelers depended upon them and accommodations for themselves for food entirely over, so as to lay the sod down and and their beasts; the rates chargeable by fit furrow to furrow smoothly enough to har- fixed by the court. An early taverns were row and sow wheat. day schedule permitted the tavern keeper to It was usual to break up in May, and receive the following amounts: demand and drop corn along the edge of every fourth per half pint 18%c; breakfast, din- whiskey, row. This was called sod corn and no culti- ner and supper, each 25c; horse, per night vation was necessary the first year. It did per single feed 25c; rum, wine and 50c, not make more than half a crop the first year French brandy, half pint 50c; cider, per quart and was used for fodder. for man 12 1 ->c. 25c and lodging The next year the crop was more abun- * * * * dant averaging 50 bushels to the acre; well FARMS IN NOKOMIS COMMUNITY cultivated wheat 25 to 30 bu., rye 25 to 35 40 to 60 bu. to the acre. Today there are some 1,320,160 acre- bu., oats from single crop of farms in the trading area of Nokomis within In many instances a the land, for fencing, a radius of 10% miles. The gross income of wheat would pay for thresh- these farms averaged $13,200,000 per year breaking up, cultivating, harvesting, to market. for the 10-year period up to January 1, 1955. ing, and taking the grain Compare these farms, most likely the * * * * same ones, with their modern equipment of STATE LEGISLATURE hay balers, tractors, combines, corn pickers, Nokomis has been honored by having with a century ago. Then a man could etc., three different citizens as members of the acres of land at Congress price of buy 320 State Legislature representing the interests $1.25 per acre, a cost for the 320 acres of of the people of the district: John Carstens, $400.00. He could break up 160 acres of the his son Garrelt Carstens, and C. E. Schaefer, prairie ground for $2.00 per acre, which was a member of the State Legislature at this another $320.00. Fencing four fields with time. eight rails and stakes took another $175.00. His cabins, corn cribs, stables, etc. would * * * * add up to $250.00. The entire price of the COUNTY OFFICERS farm amounted to $1,145.08, the price of one Montgomery County has turned to No- of the least expensive pieces of equipment komis for county officials on different occa- today. sions: Sheriff-H. M. Randle, C. 2. Schaefer, In the breaking up of these farms, the Jack Marley; County Clerk-J. M. Shoemaker; small growth had to be grubbed out by the States Attorney-T. M. Jett, Lester K. Van- roots with an instrument called a mattock. dever. It took from 3 to 6 days to grub out one acre. * * * * Three or four yoke of oxen were used AUDUBON TOWNSHIP to a share plow, turning up about 18 to 24 is so inches of turf at a furrow in breadth, and The history of Audubon township that a from 3 to 4 inches deep; the sod was turned closely allied with that of Nokomis short history of Audubon seems to be in Soon after the opening of the mine a order. school house was erected and a railroad was extended from Nokomis to the Audubon township is composed of rural- switch mine. Although the mine was closed in ities exclusively, and yet they display a is still a splendid citizenship, own and enjoy, with May, 1939, the Village of Wenonah place to live. their families, comfortable homes and mani- popular fest a thrift in their farming at once com- • * * • mendable and deserving. COALTON The Nason Coal Company sank a mine a The colony of Audubon was established mile west from the corporaie limits of in 1834 and the town of that name was laid Nokomis about 1913. Interested people laid out on sections 27 and 34 in township 10, out a town plot, sold lots, and built houses. north, range 1, west. The town was christened Coalton, the Thomas Price located on section 36. houses were occupied and more houses were Other early settlers include George Cotting- built. As soon as the population would jus- ham, Bailey Osborn, William Craig and Will- tify, Coalton was incorporated in 1916. A iam Cottingham. A year later came William school was erected and for years it was a Orear, Shipman Estes, William T. Slater, flourishing place. and many others. Hiram Holmes After the mine was closed in 1952 a few courthouse was built for local purposes A people drifted away, but the great majority with hope that the colony could draw and preferred to live in Coalton and drive to the county seat, it being the intention to work obtained in nearby cities. present the courthouse to the county. The Coalton, a clean, attractive village?, is a town of Audubon ceased to grow, and to good place to live and has given to the coun- complete the ruin, in 1856, the railroad was try at large many worthwhile citizens who built, Nokomis and Ohlman began to and have made names for themselves and for our important spots on the map. make community in various trades, professions, Ohlman is the only village in the town- and sports. ship of Audubon. The railroad was built * * * * through the township in 1856, but the town WITT of Ohlman was not laid out till some 30 years This book would not be complete with- later. Capt. Michael Ohlman, a retired out the mention of Nokomis' sister city, Witt. steamboat captain and an energetic business- Witt township was founded quite a man, becoming the possessor of a large tract while ago, but made little progress till about of land, planned the town for convenience the time of the sinking of a mine there by and business. The inhabitants of the thriv- George W. Paisley. Later another mine was ing little village of Ohlman have probably sunk just north of the city, but eventually used good judgment in deferring the matter both mines were closed down, and Witt is of incorporating, so long as they can manage now a prosperous, agricultural community. their interests without it. Ohlman has its own postoffice and many progressive business enterprises. * * * * WENONAH A mine was sunk in 1905 one mile north of Nokomis. A town sprang up near the mine and was named Wenonah in keeping with the Indian tradition. In literature Wenonah was the daughter of Nokomis and mother of Hiawatha. The mine employed over 1000 men at one time. Nokomis Lime Quarry -13— Prior to 1831 there appear to have been Today, realizing the need for substan- no permanent settlers in Witt township, al- tial, expanding industry, local businessmen, though a number came and "squatted" on laborers, and farmers are seeking to balance land for a period, then moved on, leaving the income between agriculture and manu- nothing behind but the ruins of crude cabins facturing. to indicate they had passed through this Recently, plants have been established territory. The first actual settlers here were in Nokomis for the processing of milk, the members of a family by the name of Brown. manufacturing of snow and water skis and With the building of the Indianapolis toboggans, and the manufacture of industrial and St. Louis Railroad in 1869, the village of equipment. With the pattern thus establish- Witt came into existence. The first building ed, Nokomis will proceed to increase its was a storeroom erected by William Wood. manufacturing to balance its gross income The postoffice was opened for business between farm and factorv. shortly thereafter in the storeroom of Keys and Bartlett, Mr. Keys being the first post- master. While Witt existed as a trading center for several years, there was no effort made to incorporate till August 25, 1898, when incorporation papers were taken out as a vill- age. In this form the town was managed until May 8, 1911, when the town was organ- ized as a city. * * * * Memorial Park NOKOMIS RECORD 1856-1956 For relaxation Nokomis has two beauti- A CENTURY OF PROGRESS ful parks with plenty of picnic sites, tables, Agricultural-Industrial Nokomis was grills, playgrounds, hard and softball dia- founded in the finest American traditions. monds, and equipment of various types. The Many years before the coming of the rail- City Park, the older and smaller one, located roads, settlers took up land in the area, secur- near the business district, is a beautiful shady ing the necessities of life from the old stage- spot where children play, friends meet, and coach route a few miles to the south. travelers rest. The newer and larger one is It was the railroad that gave farmers at the northwest edge of town and spreads their first opportunity for economical ship- over 44 acres. Here are ball diamonds, play- ment of grain and livestock. Nokomis, ground equipment for children, modern rest founded in 1856, sprang up along the rail rooms, a wading pool, and the Park House line, New York Central and Chicago and (the former A. F. Weaver home) which has Eastern Illinois. become the center of many civic and social Thus, the early settlers of Nokomis, who meetings. asked no more of the land than subsistence In a town of less than 3000 population, a for their families, now found themselves in a stranger is surprised at all the merchandise commercial enterprise. It was the beginning that is available in the local stores. Our of an ever rising standard of living. Yearly city is a wealthy city, and we invite you to the income from their produce put millions join us and share with us our wealth, climate, of dollars into circulation. and the better things of life that make life in But it so happened that Nokomis also itself worthwhile. was situated over a vast supply of coal. After * * * * the turn of the century, mines were opened to "The fact that Nokomis has been desig- supply the needs of the growing country. nated as the point for holding the Republican

Within the past few years, however, demand congressional convention, Oct. 1, 1884, causes for coal has diminished and the Nokomis our citizens to walk about with a certain de- mines have been closed. gree of pride." —14— THE EARLIER PHYSICIANS More of these early Nokomis M. D.'s Out of the past the voice of Nokomis were Dr. Welch, Dr. Mayhew, Dr. J. S. Fel Ire- speaks to pay tribute to the memory of her lers, Dr. Dulin, Dr. J. H. Tilden. Dr. M. old-time physicians to whom she owes so land, and Dr. J. E. Churchill. much: Dr. Taylor, Dr. Strain, Dr. Whitten, Another group of doctors came later Dr. Freeland, Dr. Burwell and others. along with the automobile, which helped a With supplies such as they were; will, lot, even though it had to be stored during quinine and fever drops; in freezing winter bad wintry weather. They were Wilson, and hot dusty summer; in mud, snow, rain, Dennis, Hodges, Hovey, Archibald; as time or storms; at morning, noon, or night they moved on, Bullington, Hoyt, Vaughn, Irwin, answered the call of the suffering. Lockhart, Bastion, and Johnston. For them there were no automobiles, no * * * * faithful weather-perfect roads, but only a EARLIER DENTISTS horse and a saddle or buggy. Dr. Taylor was a soldier in Lincoln's Dr. J. M. Sprinkle came to Nokomis in time, and a member later of the Cottingham 1886. He had studied at the N. Y. College of Post. G. A. R. He and Mrs. Taylor were Dental Surgery. He was a member of the staunch Presbyterians, also their daughters, Dental Protective Association of the U. S., May and Addie. His death was the first and was very successful in his profession. break in the Cottingham Post. His death was a tragedy—he was killed by a Dr. Strain, besides being a capable and train at one of the Nokomis crossings. dearly loved doctor, was the first music Dr. B. F. Green will be remembered by teacher in Nokomis, holding classes in the some of the old timers as a dentist of one room school house. He and Mrs. Strain marked ability. With a drill driven by his were also Presbyterians. Their family con- foot on a pedal, and with gold fillings sisted of Maggie, Kate, John, Stan, and Paul. pounded into place by a little mallet, he sent He. with his big roan horse and high, old- satisfied patients home. He passed away time buggy cheered many a worried family after leaving Nokomis. and when he drove away, many blessings Drs. Opal Lowder and H. B. Singler followed him, which often was all the charge came later with the newer equipments. Dr. he made. Lowder later became a physician and Dr. Dr. Whitten is still remembered by some Singler a specialist in one field of dentistry, of the older folks. It is said of him, "He with offices in Springfield, 111. brought half of our population into the * * * * world." At times when travel otherwise was impossible, he has been known to walk out "Dr. Whitten has put up a new telephone to the home of his patient. He and Mrs. line from his office to his residence. The Whitten were members of the St. Mark's instrument is one of the latest improved Lutheran Church as was his family of four: kind." 1887. George, Harry, Lester, and Lelia. Dr. Freeland came to Nokomis in 1888. "Dr. J. E. Churchill, who formerly prac- He was successful in his work to which he ticed medicine here, passed away in April, was very much devoted. He and Mrs. Free- 1887." land built the house now occupied by the Irvin Singler family. They had one daugh- "Dr. Whitten attended the International ter, Noi, and one son, Lloyd. Medical Congress in Washington, D. C, for Dr. Burwell also belongs in this group. three weeks. The congress was opened by He and Mrs. Burwell were interested in the President Cleveland." Baptist Church. Their nephew made his home with them and attended H. S. here. "Parties wanting a good set of teeth can They planned and built the Miss Esther get them at the dental office of B. F. Green Johnson home on Union St. for $10.00." 1880.

15- NOKOMIS CITY HALL

1908

—16— ORGANIZATIONAL NOKOMIS CHURCHES-SCHOOLS-CLUBS

spiritual, educa- When people gather to build a community certain apparent. tional and fraternal needs are immediately important rolls Nokomis Churches, Schools and Clubs have played working, and sharing in the re- in developing these needs. Living, organization have added great sponsibility for the success of these community. strength, and strength of character to the run his own life. The most important job any person has to do is to to con- Everyone has the responsibility of developing his talents the community. Much ot tribute to the work of the world, the nation, and School. But the Clubs this development comes in the Church of local service and Organizations are perfect agents for the expression and public improvement. NOKGMIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS The first school in Nokomis of which there is any record is said to have been taught by Henry Lower in his own private residence in 1848. The first school house was built in 1853 on Section 27 near the late Oak Grove School. No record is left of the teacher or pupils in this school. In 1863 a one-room frame building on the N. W. corner of S. Cedar and South Streets, known for many years as the Hulbert property, now owned by H. Hedlund, was the village school house. Second School Burned 1899 placing the school on an organized basis; be- fore 1871 the school had not been graded. The new school was a four-room red brick structure on the site of the present South School. In 1878 two more rooms were added on the east which proved ample for all school demands for nine years, when again - it became necessary to add two more rooms this time on the west. This up-to-date school EnOBB! was the pride of the community and served were All classes studied and recited in this one its purpose. From it 89 young people furthered their room to one teacher (a man) for a time; graduated, many of whom dentists, sur- later a small room was partitioned off in one education and became doctors, corner and was occupied by the juniors un- veyors, teachers, ministers, and business der the instruction of a lady teacher. Perhaps men; 43 are still living and proud to be alum- oldest the first teacher in this school was Vale ni of the Nokomis High School. The Lincoln; two other early teachers were Dan known living alumnus is Millie Haller Mc- Tooley and "Squire" Walls. The mastery of Intyre of the 1887 class. The first class to be McGuffy's fourth reader and Ray's third graduated was in 1882 and the last from this part arithmetic then represented the height building in 1889; there were no graduates in of local education. As the population increas- 1883-'84-'85-'86-1890 and 1892. At midnight ed, more room was needed for the pupils, so on April 19, 1899 this red brick building and the hall over what was then Mulkey's store all its contents burned to the ground. (the P. N. Hirsch store today) was rented in Immediately plans were started for a 1869 and used for some of the classes. new building. In May of the same year an This first school house was used not election for a bond issue to replace the build- only for school but also for church and a ing carried. The members of the board of place of public gathering. Campbellites, education who shouldered this responsibility Presbyterians and Methodists held services were A. J. Williford, president; A. F. Weaver, here on their respective Sundays, and Dr. H. secretary; J. L. Manning, John Woltmann, S. Strain instructed what was probably the G. H. Webster, J. H. Crickenburger, and first class in music organized in Nokomis Thomas Ridler. The new building, built of This building was later moved to a place Bedford stone and buff colored press brick near Witt and became a stable on a farm with a slate roof, covered a ground space of owned by Mr. D. H. Zepp, who was the first 2,000 square feet, was two stories high, had principal who taught in the next school ten large class rooms which accommodated building erected in the summer of 1871. To the grades and high school, a library, an of- this first superintendent went the work of fice, and five rooms in the basement. School examining and classifying the pupils and started late in the fall of 1899 which caused 18 Third School

Completed In 1899

many pupils to lose one semester's work; oth- a new school was built on Hamilton Street ers took special work and made up the time. to be known as the North School. This is a At that time each room had two sections - modern building of red brick with eight class A and B - and midyear promotions were rooms, an office, two large halls, a heating made. The corps of teachers beginning in unit adjacent to the building, and a base- this new building were R. H. Perrott, super- ment at first used for play rooms but now intendent; G. O. Webster, high school; No. 8 - used for class rooms and a cafeteria. The Minnie Puteney; No. 7 - Myrtle Safford; No. board of education at the time the North 6 - Mercy Ridler; No. 5 - Maggie Manning; School was built were H. C. Miller. Geo. No. 4 - Emma Scales; No. 3 - Ida Strider; No. Schaper, S. B. Brown, John Todd. A. F. 2 - Ida McKown; No. 1 - Mary Beck. Weaver, E. F. Pannwitt, Wm. Brockman. The new school was large enough to ac- The first faculty members in this building comodate the educational needs of Noko- were Clara Burton - 1, Hazel Pennepacker - mis for many years, but growth of industry 2, Huldah Kettelkamp - 3, Ida Peck - 4, Mary in the city and an increase of population soon Archibald - 5, Edith McClain - 6, Ruth Nies- cried for more class room space. In 1913-'14 lar - 7, Stella Yackle - 8. some classes were held in upstair rooms in The two buildings were quite satisfactory the Charlie Kerr building on S. Spruce St.; as now the grade pupils did not need to cross the playground was in the city park. In 1914 the railroad as there were eight grades on

North School

1914

-19— each side; the high school remained in the so high school classes were held in the base- South School. ment of the Presbyterian and Methodist

Churches, K. P. Hall ( now American Legion In 1918 all the school were over- rooms Hall), Holmes Opera House, and the Weaver crowded so it was again necessary to make Hall (corner S. Cedar St. and W. Main St.). more room. This time a Township High No doubt many can recall the fun running School was considered to take care of all high between classes, the excuses for being tardy, school pupils in the Nokomis Township thus no desks - college students had nothing on giving more room for the grade pupils in the N. T. H. S. pupils from September until Jan- old school district. A bond issue and site were uary. In January the new High School build- voted upon and carried. Work began at once ing was completed and classes convened out on the present high school but materials and there after the Christmas vacation. Just laborers were scarce, due to World War I the building was completed but no, or very which was then in progress; hence the new few, furnishings were in. The pupils sat on building was not ready for occupancy in the floor in the class rooms the first day; September, 1918, so high school work was the second day chairs were brought out from continued in the South School building. Un- the Weaver Hall. Slowly but surely things til this time the course offered in high school straightened out, new furniture came and all was limited to four required subjects each went well. In fact the pupils felt they needed year with no choice by the pupils. After the a guide to get through such a huge building township unit was organized, additional with a large auditorium, business depart- subjects were added which called for more ment with bank fixtures in place, a science than three teachers (the number so far em- department with elevated seats in the lecture ployed in high school) and more equipment room, a home economics department, an but there was no room. A teacher was hired to teach sewing but there were no machines, and no place to put machines if they had them. With an auditorium full of pupils a teacher would attempt to teach a class in the front of the room. All these inconveniences and crowded conditions were endured dur- ing 1918-19. In September of 1919 the grades took over the entire South School and the new high school building was not completed, South School—1942

-20 .

agriculture department, and a real gymnas- were Janet McGhec - 1, Velma Hardy - 2, ium. This building was the pride not only oi Vivian Gipson - 3, Florence Bosonetto - 4, the local community but of the entire county Mercy Willis - 5, and Frances Baird. May Nokomis was the first town in the county to Roberts and Geraldine Hovey in depart- have a high school for a larger area than mental work in grades 6, 7, and 8. just a school district. Because of our facilities The high school gradually set up higher the meeting of the Montgomery County standards until it was privileged to become Teachers' Association and the County Bas- a member of the North Central Association ketball Tournament were held in the Noko- of High Schools and Colleges, which permits mis Township High School. its graduates to enter colleges and univei The members of the board of education sities throughout the U. S. without taking who were responsible for this new venture entrance examinations. in education in Nokomis were A. J. Jayne - From time to time more subjects were added president, W. P. Thacker - secretary, Harvey to the high school curriculum, more teachers Case, H. E. Weaver, E. L. Davis and James were listed on the faculty, and more room Herron. The first N. T. H. S. faculty mem- space was provided until once again, "the bers were W. P. Thacker - principal, Char- old order changeth for the new," and the lotte Holmes Eekhoff, Irma Ellington, Helen Nokomis community felt it should move Ream, Elizabeth Schenker and Stella Yackle. along with the changing times. The State About noon on Sunday, Dec. 18, 1938, Department of Education urged a new unit the fire alarm called many from their homes system to take in more territory, to consol- to the South School only to see it completely idate into larger centers of instruction, and destroyed by flames in little more than an to provide a more diversified curriculum for hour. So great were the heat and swiftness the pupils. This meant the closing of many with which the flames spread, that nothing country schools and the transportation of was salvaged from the building - no records, pupils to central schools. Naturally, this was no school data, a great loss to the school a difficult decision for the citizens to make officials. The classes were soon resumed in as the country school was the center for all the Presbyterian Church basement and a the important gatherings - social, business, vacant house on S. Cedar St.; the St. Louis and educational - in each district. Gradually Parochial School gave one grade a room and the new system spread over the state, and on the North School absorbed the other grades. the third trial, on May 9, 1953, the voters of Thus classes continued until the fall of 1942 the Nokomis and surrounding communities when the present modern South School was decided to consolidate in the Nokomis Com- ready for occupancy. On November 19, 1942, munity Unit District No. 22 which includes open house was held for all to see and in- parts or all of the following townships: No- spect the beautiful two-story building of komis, Fillmore, Witt, Audubon, Rountree, concrete with brick facing containing eight Ricks, and Greenwood. The one high school class rooms furnished in birch with match- in this unit is the Nokomis H. S., and the ing furniture, an office, a lounge, a library, grade schools are Audubon, Ohlman, Fill- a gymnasium and auditorium combined with more, Coalton, Prairie College, Fair Prairie, a balcony and a large stage, and a modern and the North and South Schools in Noko- kitchen. H. C. Kettelkamp, a Nokomis H. S. mis. The new unit has an assessed valuation alumnus, was the contractor for this build- of $19,125,855. an area of 162 square miles, ing; much of the work was done by W. P. ^ a total enrollment of 915, and a faculty of 52 laborers. The members rf the board of edu- with 2 full time and 1 part time secretaries. cation who weathered the storm of building The board members who ushered in this new- Bertolino - president, Fred during another war ( World War II ) were unit were Louis Fred Layer - president, Fred Michelman - Fesser - secretary, Carl Heldebrandt. Harold secretarv, Joe Viola, Roy Keele. Louis Wolt- C. Herzog, George Priddle, Earl Bauman, mann, Emil Abrolat, Roy Pocock. The fac- and Charles Cachera. With this new unit ulty who began work in this new building came many innovations: the hot lunch pro- —21— Carrie Hoffman, gram, the transportation of pupils, a kinder- Flowers, Mary B. Young, - Mary F. Meier, garten, more courses, more teachers, more Donald Morris; Audubon Coalton - Gertrude pupils. Today 13 buses carry the pupils to Mary C. Cockelreas; Ohlman - Orie Her- and from their schools; the three Nokomis Hinkle, Virginia Strain; College - Imogene schools and the Fillmore school have ten zog, Teresa Pieper; Prairie - Marie Tester. ladies who prepare well balanced, hot lunch- Heck; Fair Prairie and es in four modern kitchens for all pupils Those who have been superintendents the unit; a speech correctionist teachers in of the Nokomis schools are as follows: D. H. the pupils who have speech difficulties: helps Zepp, 1871 - 1872; Dr. E. F. Newberry, 1872 there is a modern work shop for industrial - 1874; D. H. Zepp, 1874 - 1875; S. W. Culp, arts, a kindergarten, all of which have come 1875 - 1876; L. B. Whitham, 1876 - 1877; W. in with the unit. However, the kindergarten, M. Chrichton, 1877 - 1878; J. M. Dixon, 1878 industrial arts shop, agriculture shop, and - 1879; A. C. Hancock, 1879 - 1881; J. M. Dix- the unit office are all housed in other places on, 1881 -1882; C. P. Schwer, 1882 - 1883; G. than in the schools, which is not the best ar- - F. Miner, 1883 - 1885; J. R. Edmunds, 1885 rangement and which means more room is 1888; W. B. Davis. 1888 - 1891; M. L. Mclnty- needed, hence the present rumor of a new re, 1891 - 1898; R. H. Perrott, 1898 - 1900; building. Harry C. Miller, 1900 - 1905; W. P. Thacker, Nokomis can be justly proud of her pres- 1905- 1907; Henry Buellesfield, 1907 - 1914; the boards of educa- 19- ent school system, many W. P. Thacker, 1914 - 1920; Chas. Conrad, other school tion, faculty members, and 20 - 1922; Calvin Rice, 1922 - 1924; John F. personnel who have piloted it from a humble Grisamore, 1924 - 1929; E. A. Lewey, 1929 - educational beginning to a widely recognized 1943; Edw. Bertolino, 1943 - 1944; Mildred have - institution of today. Her 2177 graduates Barnstable, 1944 - 1948; E. A. Yund, 1948 into many, gone to all parts of the world and 1952; Albert Manwaring, 1952 - 1953; Robert many fields of service. The members of the Ullom, 1953 - present board of education, 1955-56, are John A. Williams - president, Merle Wright - sec- Nokomis also has two parochial schools retary, August Kottwitz, Merril Mansfield, each of which has eight grades: St. Louis Victor Micklautz, John White, John Tester Catholic School and St. Paul's Lutheran and Max Moody, treasurer. School west of town. The present Unit faculty members are Robert Ullom - superintendent, Sarah Rhine - kindergarten, James Frazier - physical edu- cation, Verna Croghan and Gwendolyn Charlie Kerr, May Osborn, Robert Gelly, Hieronymus - voice, Edwin Gould - band, Clyde Tooley, Roy Webster, Hettie Weaver, John Deagan - speech correctionist; high Omar Webster, Mable Easterday, Dunn school - Edward Bertolino - principal, Flor- Weaver, Edith Gelly, Dora Law, Martha ence Boone, Mary Ann Brady, James Handschy, Edith Littlefield, Jessie Pufeles, Brandon, Robert Calvin, Raymond Carrell, Eugene Osborn, John Hill, Lulu Farner, Patricia Deagan, Ruth Greenlee, Lady Mar- Nellie Hiett, Delia Lant, Willie Bentz, Alvah tin Hicks, Louise Hogue, Bobbie Lee Marrs, Randies, Ida Rosche, John Snell, Norman Nancy June May, Esther Nantkes, Frances Robinson, Sadie Gelly, Mertie Ridler, Rossie Pircher, Raymond Robbins, Darline Tosetti, Latimer, Charlie Singer, Lucy Kerr, Meda Russell Weger; North School - Echard Cress, Best, Hettie Anderson, Harry Hancock, Addie Mae Gray, Cecil Archibald, Maxine Kessing- Garrisine, John Shoemaker, Minnie Bess, er, Edith Bosonetto, May Holloway, Daphne John Strain, Mark VanHorn, Annie Carstens, M. Leigh, Audrey H. Probst; South School - Effie Latimer, Alice Robertson, Walter Edris Mabie, Janet E. Sale, Velma Hardy, Hovey, Kate Belnap, Maud Manning, Lelia May Roberts, Florence Bosonetto, Selena Whitten, Laura Anderson — names on school Mack, Gladys Bottomley, Geraldine Hovey; Honor Roll Dec, 1887 - neither absent nor Fillmore - E. H. Baumgartner, Genevieve tardy for 1 month. THE SONG OF NOKOMIS SCHOOLS Out of dark red bricks 'twas builded. Long and narrow were the hallways; Should you ask me whence this story, Steep and narrow were the stairways, With its legends and traditions, Leading to the upper story. With its frequent repetitions, In the center of the roof-top I should answer. I would tell you. Hung a bell within a tower. "From the lips of many people. And this bell called to the children, From the lips of older people, "Little children of Nokomis, From the ones who long have lived here Come and get an education." In this town upon the prairie Now this building proved a blessing In the village of Nokomis." Through the many years that followed. But. alas! There came an evening, Long ago the early settlers When the school was left unguarded, Built their homes upon the prairie, When in some mysterious manner, Close beside the railway built them, In some strange, mysterious That the black and puffing monster, manner, A great conflagration started Might provide a way for shipping, And the ringing of the fire bell Might provide a way for travel, Waked the people from their slumbers. Might provide a way to carry Ran they quickly to the schoolhouse. Messages to friends and loved ones Hurried they their aid to offer, They had left far to the eastward. But, alas! Too late to save it. Stood in groups To the homes beside the railwav around the building. Watched the flashing flames In this village on the prairie spread highf Watched until the walls had crumbled. Children came; bright, happy children, Then they turned their faces Making life the more worth living, homeward And the building lay in ruins. Gathered flowers upon the prairie, Played upon the streets at sundown. Then the people of Nokomis, Then the fathers in the village Then the Board of Education, Straightway-spake one to the other, Straightway put their heads together, "We must build somewhere a schoolhouse, Saying, "We must build another, We must find somewhere a teacher. Build another, better schoolhouse Find a teacher, man or woman, For the children of Nokomis." Who will teach these little children; So the plans were found and chosen. They must have an education." So the builders labored daily Till a new school was completed. So a building was provided Out of yellow bricks 'twas builded; Just a tiny one-room schoolhouse Wide and airy were the hallways, For the children of Nokomis. Broad and sloping were the stairways Now this village by the railway Leading to the second story. With the Indian name Nokomis, And the builders, ere 'twas finished With the years grew longer, wider, Placed a tower above the entrance, Grew until the little schoolhouse Hung the bell up in the belfry, Would no longer hold the children, And its mellow tones, like music, Who came daily to the building, Called unto the many children Daily hearkened to their teachers. In the village of Nokomis, "Come and get what is your birthright Then the patriarchs of the village Come and get an education." Planned a larger, better building; Chose a site upon the high ground, Far beneath the Indian village, Sloping gently to the westward. Lying dark throughout the ages, Here the building was erected. Many feet beneath the surface,

•21] Countless tons of coal were hidden, Now this happy situation But at last it was discovered. Through the months and years continued Mines were sunk down to this treasure In the village of Nokomis That it might be mined and hoisted, Until one December morning. That it might give heat and comfort Til one peaceful Sabbath morning, To the people of Nokomis. When the call of "Fire" was sounded. To this village on the prairie When the screaming of the siren Strangers came; so many strangers Called the people from the churches, Hoping to obtain employment From their homes throughout the village. In the coal mines near the village. Swiftly sped they to the South Side, And the bell up in the tower Saw the flames spread outward, upward Called unto these strange men's children, Through the school that had been builded "Come and harken to the teachers, For the children of Nokomis. Come and get an education." Watched the flames spread upward, upward And they came until the building To the tower above the entrance Was quite filled to overflowing. Where the bell up in the belfry With its mellow tones like music Then the Board of Education Had for years called to the children, Talked this serious matter over "Come and get an education." Saying, "We must build another, Stood and watched until in embers, Build somewhere another schoolhouse 'Til in piles of ash and rubble, For the children of Nokomis." 'Til in ruin lay the South School Where the children had so lately So at last it was decided, Come to harken to their teachers So the site was bought and paid for. When the bell called from the tower. And a building was erected. Far across the tracks 'twas builded Again the Board of Education And the children of the North Side Faced a trying situation, Find their way up to this building. Saying, "We must build another, There to get what is their birthright, Build another, better building There to harken to their teachers For the children of Nokomis." There to get an education, Plans were made and blueprints drafted, There learn lessons full of wisdom Workmen came who were efficient. That they may be better able Long and well these workmen labored To meet life and all its worries. Until at last upon the high ground Sloping gently to the westward Now the patriarchs of the village The new building stood completed. Felt their work indeed was ended, There it stands, "A thing of beauty," Schools enough had been provided Very modern in its structure. For the children of Nokomis. Walls of yellow brick are builded, But anon were heard suggestions, But no tower above the entrance Rumors of another building, Holds the bell whose mellow music One to be entirely High School, Used to ring out to the children Built and kept up by the township. "Come and harken to your teachers, In good time the steps were taken, Come and get an education." Ways and means were found to build it. Such a pleasant site selected Since the Little Hiawatha At the outskirts of the village At his door on summer evenings By the highway leading outward Learned the things Nokomis taught him To the Land of Mudjekeewis, From the wondrous book of Nature To the region of the West Wind. Written in the earth and heavens There it stands "A thing of beauty," Many plans have been adopted And as such "a joy forever." In the field of education. —24— So a change came to Nokomis FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Gone the boundary of its district HISTORY Gone the lonely white school houses That sat sunning by the roadside; While our country was disturbed by the And instead, big yellow busses, terrible calamities of internal strife, a little Carefully guided by their drivers, band of Christians met for the purpose of Cany from their homes the children organizing a church. Under the leadership To the village of Nokomis, of Rev. Joseph Gordon, who had been preach- There to listen to their teachers ing to them for sometime, they met on June There to get what is their birthright 21, 1862. Though organized in the days There to get an education. of battle, it has struggled along, earnestly seeking to make of its members, each, a good Very grateful are the children soldier of the cross. At its first meeting, a That so much has been done for them. series of resolutions were prepared and accepted, to be presented at the next meeting All of this points backward, backward of the Alton Presbytery. They said, "We in earlier history, To a time deem it a duty we owe to God and for our To the making of the famous best interest as individuals, for time and "Ordinance of 'eighty-seven," eternity, to form ourselves in a church of Which made plain, that in the "Northwest," Christ for the purpose of better sustaining "Schools should ever be encouraged." the interests of religion in our midst and se- curing the means of grace for ourselves and Happy the Nokomis children the community in which we live." This That so much has been done for them, church was known as the First Presbyterian Much to make life more worth living, Church of Nokomis. The building, the one Much to bring success and pleasure now occupied, was erected in 1866. Through the years, until a time when Many pastors have since served the Gitchie Manito, the mighty, church faithfully. Rev. Robert Carson bap- Calls, May each one be rewarded tised 74 into the church at one time. A Sab- With, "Well done! Come thou and enter bath school was organized soon after the To the region of the Home wind, church. Never was school work more en- To the islands of the Blessed, couraging than under the leadership of Mrs. To the land of the Hereafter," Christina Collier, Supt. It had a member- Marv K. Archibald ship of 160, and 22 were members of the church. The young people were later orga- nized into a Christian Endeavor Society with Mrs. Dora Crumbaugh - pres., Miss Kate Strain - sec, Walter Collier - treas., and Miss "Compulsory school law should be en- Emma Best - organist. 500 members were forced in this place. Too many boys are received into the church, 3 becoming pastors. daily found on the streets who should attend school." 1887. However, many young people left town to accept positions in the city, and the church has suffered other reverses. Sunday school that "Parents are warned to take care and church are still being held every Sun- the ornamental branches do not overshadow day, although the attendance is small. Rev. schools. Pupils the fundamental subjects in S. A. Lay is pastor, who is shared with the those are not as good readers and spellers as Witt Church. He is also Director of 9 rural 35 and 50 years ago." 1887. churches, known as "The Parish of the Open Door". Thus the rural church is not neglec- ted. "Every desk is occupied in the Oct., 1878. Need room." Mrs. Dora Crumbaugh 25 First Baptist Church

and

Educational Unit

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH with some cf these convertible as assembly Baptists living in Nokomis and vicinity areas. formed the first Baptist church on May 24, Active organizations of the church in- 1856, when a group of three men and five clude its Sunday School of 20 classes; the women organized themselves into a "Mis- Women's Mission Society; Baptist Youth sionary Baptist church", later to be known Fellowship; Pioneer Girls; Christian Service as the "First Baptist Church of Nokomis". Brigade, and several organized Sunday As more families moved into the community, School classes which meet socially once a those of like faith allied themselves to the month. An adult choir and a youth choir group, either by baptism or transfer from give their services in providing special music other churches. regularly in the worship services. The First Baptist church is affiliated The church has been served by 38 min- with the American Baptist Convention. isters, with varying length of terms as pas- For fourteen years the members held tor. A number of these served as supply worship services in a schoolhouse or in sister while continuing their preparation for the churches. Their first house of worship was ministry. Six pastors have been ordained dedicated in 1870. It was erected on a lot at during their pastorate of the First Baptist the corner of S. Spruce and E. Union Streets, church of Nokomis. The first ordination was opposite the city park. In 1907 the building that of Rev. James M. Stifler, May 22, 1869. was moved to its present location on South The Rev. B. Lawrence Sweeney, present Maple Street. Extensive remodeling and en- pastor, began his ministry in this church in larging have been made since then to accom- 1952 when he was graduated and ordained at modate the growing need for Sunday School Northern Baptist Seminary. Each year of class rooms. Recent improvements consist of his pastorate has seen the addition of new interior decoration, new lights in the audi- members, the roll at present being nearly torium and new choir and dossal curtains. 300 members. In 1910 a parsonage was built adjoining The church observed its Centennial in the church, which served as the pastor's May of this year by holding special services residence until 1954, when the church ac- with outstanding leaders of the denomina- quired the property at 101 West South tion from the State Convention and others Street, the home of the present pastor. At participating in the program, making the that time the former parsonage was com- occasion an outstanding milestone in the pletely remodeled as an educational unit, history of the church. making accommodations for 13 class rooms, —Mrs. John F. Johnson, Historian -26— Several improvements and rem« programs have followed since the structure

was built. On October 12, 1947, a Hammond electric organ was dedicated, and in the year 1950 the interior of the church was redeco- rated. The walls were covered with sheets of plywood, and a new lighting system was installed with modern fixtures, the main Lights being recessed into the ceiling. New railings wore installed around the chancel and choir sections; they are light in color to blend with the wall finish, and contrast with the darker trim around the doors and win- dows. In the summer of 1954 an addition of Sunday School rooms was built on the base- ment level, and the entire basement was THE FIRST METHODIST CHURCH then refinished, and some remodeling was done. A new heating system using gas and having thermostatic controls for both the The First Methodist Church was orga- sanctuary and basement, was installed. The nized in the year 1850 when James L. Crane furnace unit occupies the former coal com- organized a class of nineteen members at the partment, which releases the remaining home of Hugh Hightower, two miles south- space in the old furnace room for use in the west of Nokomis. Samuel Smith was basement Sunday School rooms. The appointed Class Leader, and, for a term, kitchen also was modernized by the con- meetings were held at his residence. Later struction of new cabinets and the rearrange- on they were held at the Oak Grove School ment of other furnishings. A new modern house, and then at the school house in Noko- lighting system was installed throughout mis. The Revs. J. C. Pallatte, A. J. Cushman, the basement consisting mainly of flour- Preston Wood and Robert Honnold of the escent type fixtures. Mr. Fred Bauman was Hillsboro Circuit were among the first to the foreman of this project, and the cost of hold services here, and the Rev. Honnold the entire program was over $6,300, besides became the first pastor of the Nokomis Cir- much donated labor. cuit. The first church building was erected during the pastorate of the Rev. George The membership of the church in 1956 Miller in 1868, and it was dedicated the fol- is nearly 450 in number, and the Sunday lowing year. During the time the Rev. School enrollment is more than 260. The served as pastor in 1888, the Nokomis Driver Church and Sunday School not only serve Church became a station. the town and village of Nokomis and Coalton but a large rural population as well, mainly The present church building at the in Audubon, Witt and Nokomis townships. corner of Cedar and West Union Streets was erected in 1903, when the Rev. J. A. Stout the principal was pastor, at a cost of something more than Those holding some of are John Swarbrick, S7,000, and was dedicated on November 22nd offices in the church Church School of that year by the Presiding Elder, Dr. Lay Leader; Russell Weger, Horace Reed. The contract for construction Superintendent; Fred Bauman, Chairman of Treasurer; Mrs. Rose was let to Maxeiner Brothers and Vedder, Trustees; S. B. Brown, and the cornerstone was laid by Dr. Reed on Warnsing, President of the W. S. C. S.; of the Methodist July 7th. The three large art windows were Emil Schneider, President Bula, donated by the Sunday School, the Epworth Men's organization; and Rev. LeRoy E. League, and the Ladies' Aid Society. Pastor.

-27- parsonage was erected. In 1920 the church again underwent extensive improvements; a basement, memorial windows, new pews and a furnace were installed. In 1920, since services were no longer conducted in the German language, the name of the church was changed from Ger- man Methodist to Grace Methodist Church. Since 1931 one pastor has served at both Grace and first Methodist Churches. The Methodist Men and the Methodist Youth Fellowship have a combined membership from the two churches. In 1952 the following gifts were pre- sented, most of them as memorials to former GRACE METHODIST CHURCH members: a Hammond electric organ, music cabinet, pulpit and communion table, pulpit Methodists In 1890 a group of German Bible, cross and candlesticks, 2 memorial services on Sun- banded together and held windows, a large electric clock. A new altar Presbyterian Church, day afternoons in the was built, new carpet and kneeling pads were Stueckeman, conducted by the Rev. C. J. added, and the entire interior was redeco- pastor of the South who was at that time rated. Fork Methodist Church. Hours of services: Church School, 9:00 He was followed by the Rev. W. C. a.m. and Preaching Service, 9:45 a.m. The Schultze and services were then conducted present membership of the church is 110. in the First Methodist Church. In 1897 he Besides the pastors already mentioned organized a Sunday School. The same year a the following ministers have served this small abandoned church building was pur- church: the Reverends Fred Koenig, Otto chased and the church was organized with Niederhuth, H. A. Temple, Max Opp, F. D. 40 active members by the Rev. Theo. Kies. Rademacher, Louis Duevel, C. R. Under- who served for one year. wood, W. G. Lloyd, J. D. Muir, C. F. Juvinall, In 1898 it was combined with the Hur- George Billings, B. H. Pinkston, E. D. Pal- ricane Church and the Rev. Guido Boellner mer, and the present pastor, Rev. LeRoy was appointed pastor of the Circuit. The Of- Bula. ficial Board at this time consisted of the fol- The present officers of the church: lowing officers: Fred Pannwitt, Fred Hoepp- Trustees - Fred Layer, Albert Hoffman, ner, Garrelt Brakenhoff, William Stolte, Louis Priess, Theo. H. Johnson, Guido Kott- Ernest Kettelkamp, Wm. Kettelkamp and witz, Herbert Scheller, E. E. Rademacher. Wm. Herzog. Fred Kettelkamp and Henry Church Treasurer - Elsa Brockman. Bene- Dude were local preachers. volence Treasurer - Esther Kleinik, Church In 1899 the Rev. A. F. Ludwig assumed School Supt. - Velma Hardy, Pres. Woman's the pastorate and remained for 5 years. Also Society of Christian Service - Florence Lay- in 1899 the women of the church organized er. Communion Steward - Ora Reincke. the "sewing society" which met one after- Chairman of Commission on Membership noon each week in the homes of the mem- and Evangelism - Ben Reincke. Chairman of bers to sew or quilt. It is now known as the Commission on Education - Imogene Heck. Woman's Society of Christian Service. Chairman of Commissions on Finance - Fred In 1900 a group of 25 young people or- B. Johnson. Chairman of Commission on ganized the Epworth League with Julius Missions - Esther Kleinik. Choir Director - Kettelkamp as president. E. E. Rademacher. Organists - Edwin Kettel- In 1903 improvements and additions kamp and Tillie Koctwitz. Church Lay were made to the church building and a new Leader - Fred Laver.

-28- —

addition was made to the church and 3 acres of land were bought for use as a cemeterj

In 1881 Fr. John Storp became pastor here and a small frame house was purchased and enlarged; in 1884 Fr. Storp took up resi- dence, thus becoming the first resident pas- tor. Fr. Patrick A. Lyons succeeded Fr. Storp in 1893 and was succeeded by Fr. Clement Johannes in 1897. During his time here 1897 to his death on January 10, 1940—St. Louis parish had its greatest growth and progress. A new church was a necessity. The cornerstone was laid on July 4, 1899, and it was ready for use in the spring of 1900. It covers a ground space of 55x120 feet. The ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC CHURCH auditorium is 84 feet deep and 40 feet from floor to ceiling. The original steeple—130 The history of St. Louis church, Noko- feet high—was torn away by a tornado on mis, dates back to the year 1859 when Father Aug. 6, 1907, and was replaced by a more Colton of Litchfield began coming to Noko- substantial one. At the same time the pres- mis occasionally to take care of the few ent Rectory was built and completed towards Catholics then living here. This was three the end of 1908. years after the Postoffice had been es- tablished here upon completion of the In 1917 St. Louis Parochial School was railroad. Until 1867 irregular religious ser- ready for classes, the School Sisters of Notre vices were held in private houses, most fre- Dame being the teachers selected. In recog- quently at the home of Thomas Tuohy who nition of his great work Fr. Johannes was was foreman of the section and who kept a honored by Pope Pius XI, with the title of boarding house for the section men which Monsignor in 1930. Incidentally, the day on stood just north of the railroad and just east which this honor was publicly conferred on of Spruce St. him—March 25, 1930—saw one of the worst snowstorms in the history of Nokomis. Mon- Beginning with 1867 Fr. Thomas Cusack signor Johannes died on Jan. 10, 1940. Had attended Nokomis regularly once a month he lived a few more months he would have and Mass was celebrated in what was known reached the age of 80. Fr. Paul Heinen, who as at corner of State and Blue's Hall the had been with Monsignor Johannes for about Spruce Streets. Fr. Cusack was succeeded a year, was temporary administrator of the by Fr. Edward Welch and he by Fr. Julian parish until Fr. John J. Hogan became pastor Turmell under whom, on July 4, 1870, the on March 14, 1940. He is still pastor in this congregation was organized with the incor- Centennial year of Nokomis. St. Louis Par- porated title of "St. Louis" Roman Catholic ish numbers about 1000 souls. There are 179 Church of Nokomis, Montgomery County, children in St. Louis Parochial School who Illinois. are still taught by the School Sisters of In 1871 a frame church was built for Notre Dame from St. Louis, Mo., together $2,300.00. The size was 34 x 54 feet and 20 with a lay teacher, Miss Rosemary Keller of feet to the ceiling. There were only 25 Farmersville. Such is a brief history of this Catholic families here at the time but they parish. If it be true that "the way of judging got generous help from Nokomis merchants the Future is by the Past" then, surely, St. in their project. Fr. Frederic Lohman of Louis Parish, Nokomis, 111., has great things Hillsboro was the attending priest from 1873 ahead of it. to 1876 when he was succeeded by Fr. Peter J. Hogan, Pastoi J. Virnich. During his time here a necessary John -29— this project was raised by the Brotherhood through sponsoring a lecture by the famous author, Lloyd C. Douglas, a son-in-law of Dr. F. M. Porch, pastor at the time. In 1949 the front entrance was changed, definitely altering the appearance of the building. In 1954-55 extensive interior improve- ments were made. This included a complete remodeling of the chancel, a Hagren organ, new lighting and interior decorating, and an oil furnace. In addition many special me- morial gifts were received. The project culminated in the celebration of the church's centennial during the week of June 5 - 12, ST. MARKS LUTHERAN CHURCH 1955. A fourth improvement period is antici- St. Mark's Lutheran church in Nokomis pated in the near future, as plans are form- is the outgrowth of Lutheran work in Aud- ing for the expansion of the educational unit. ubon Township. This began in 1852 when a the ministry of its pastors, group of Lutherans came to that community In addition to educational, from Ohio. A temporary organization was both in and out of the pulpit, the evangelism programs are effected in 1853 and worship services were devotional and conducted by the Rev. Amos Bartholomew, fostered by the auxiliaries: the Church Missionary- who divided his time between Audubon and School; Ladies' Aid; Women's Homes, an Bost Hill. Soon more Lutherans came from Society; Brotherhood; Happy couples; Ohio and settled near Audubon. In June, organization for young married 1855 the Rev. D. D. Swaney was called to Ladies' Evening Circle; and the Luther people. excellent this field. A congregation was formally or- League, for the young An ganized, known as Zion's Evangelical Luth- choir contributes to the spirit of worship. eran Church. A church building was erected The value of recreational activities is not in 1856. overlooked. Outstanding in this field is the Of the thirteen who signed the consti- Bald Memorial Park, where there is a cabin, tution, nine bore the name of Easterday and and where a lake has recently been con- two had the name, Culp. In the present mem- structed. bership of St. Mark's there are descendants The temporal affairs of the church are Easterdays and of the Culps, also of of the administered by a Council, consisting of nine the Rev. Swaney. laymen and the pastor. After the completion of the railroad Through the merger of several synods through this part of the country a number in 1918 the United Lutheran Church in of the members at Audubon moved to Noko- into existance. St. Mark's mis, where other Lutherans had settled. The America came congregation was reorganized and a house continues to be affiliated with this body. of worship was erected in 1866, at the corner The congregation has been served by of Oak and Union. This building is still in the following pastors: D. D. Swaney, S. L. use, facing now on Union instead of Oak as Harkey, John Regan, J. E. Wesner, D. M. it did originally. Henkel, J. F. Booher, D. L. Roth, W. A. Through the years many improvements Lilly, D. A. Shetler, E. A. Rees, C. R. Sherck, have been made, there being three periods H. C. Funk, T. B. Hersch, J. N Lentz, P. J. of major accomplishment. A basement was Alberthus, L. F. Gunderman, B. B. Uhl, F. M. excavated and equipped for Sunday School Porch, G. W. Styer, J. J. Gent, E. J. John- use about 1920. In this connection it is of son, C. C. Warfel, A. L. Angersbach, and the interest to note that a part of the money for present pastor, J. S. Rhine. -30- two-room school. The present teachers: Mr. ST. PAUL S LUTHERAN CHURCH Duane Hingst, grades 4-8; Miss Dorothy 1870—1956 Haake, grades 1-3. Previous to this 9 teachers served in the school. The history of St. Paul's Lutheran for than Church has its roots in the German settlers The Parish House serves more that started to come to Nokomis Prairie in just a school. It also serves for Sunday 1865. They soon felt the need of having School and Junior Bible Class every Sunday. regular Sunday School and divine services. Here a staff of 16 officers and teachers teach school From 1870 to 1872 services were conducted God's Word to 87 children and 20 high by Doctor Swaney, a retired clergyman, the students. Rev. Eisenbach, Mt. Olive, and students of During the evenings on week days there Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. are meetings scheduled for five different Paul's congregation. On the first Sunday in December, 1871, organizations of St. youth or- the first church building was dedicated. In These are the Walther League, a 1872 a parsonage was erected and a call was ganization; Married Couples' Club; Ladies' Parents' Club. one of extended to Candidate John Droegemueller. Aid; Men's Club; Each organizations has its pet projects He became the first resident pastor. It was these own to help St. Paul's Church and School. Besides not till 1884 that the congregation affiliated with the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod these meetings the Finance Board, Board of (then known as the Evangelical Lutheran Education, Church Council, and Adult Mem- the Parish for Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States). bership Classes use House meetings. As time went on it became necessary that a larger church be erected. This was During the period of 86 years of exist- done in 1889. From now on the old church ence St. Paul's was served by a total of eight building served as a school until the present pastors. The present pastor is the Rev. Jacob Parish House was built in 1930. St. Paul's Esslinger. Of these pastors and teachers that has had building programs from time to time served St. Paul's some have taught or are through the years. In 1914 it was found that still teaching as professors in the seminaries the parsonage erected in 1872 should be re- or teachers' colleges operated by the Luth- placed by a new building. That same year eran Church - Missouri Synod. addition built on to the church which an was On looking over the history of St. Paul's, provides room for the altar, organ, and one cannot help but notice that it had a be- vestry. ginning of only a few families, but grew so From the very beginning St. Paul's con- that it now has between 165-170 families on gregation saw the need of instructing the its mailing list. If a person could enumerate children. At first this chore was performed all the names of those who served their coun- by the pastor. The stress was then laid on try in the various wars and those who have language and religion. Before the building of in other ways distinguished themselves, and show what those have done and are doing for the present church ( 1889 ) the teaching was done in a room of the parsonage. From 1889 their country here in the community, we to 1929 the first church building was used as must say that if St. Paul's had not been there, a school. St. Paul's went into conducting a the completion of Nokomis Centennial would regular day school for its children in 1926. be of quite a different hue. Nokomis has For five years the school was taught by every reason to look with pride on the con- senior students or graduates from Addison tributions that St. Paul's made to the com- Normal School or Teachers' Seminary. In munity that is now observing its 100th anni- 1931 one of these was given a permanent versary. St. Paul's will not lie back and rest call. He then taught till 1943. Since the on its laurels, but will continue to do its part beginning of the present school term, Sep- to make Nokomis a city worth Jiving in and tember, 1955, the school has operated as a remembering. —31 Stueckeman was minister. His sudden illness f I) delayed the building, and it was not until March, 1893, during the ministry of Rev. C. W. Schultze, that the contract was let. This building was completed in November, 1893. The church bell, still in use, was presented to the church in this year by Mr. Eugene Vandeveer. South Fork celebrated its Fiftieth An- niversary in 1918 during the ministry of Rev. A. H. F. Hertzler. Also during this year the present parsonage was built. Until 1925 the South Fork Methodist Church was a THE SOUTH FORK member of the St. Louis German Conference. METHODIST CHURCH HISTORY At this time, however, the South Fork Church merged with the Illinois English In 1857 several German families settled Conference. Up until this merger, the church in this community. The Rev. E. H. Kriege services were conducted in the German visited these families, preaching the Gospel language, but after the merger the services to them, followed by the Rev. Louis Harmel were all conducted in English. from Decatur. The first organized meeting Improvements in church property have of these early settlers and their Christian constantly been made. In the earlier years leaders was held at the home of Henry Best, the outmoded coal oil lamps were replaced and in 1868 the South Fork congregation by acetylene lights, which in turn gave was officially organized. The first Quarterly place, in 1918, to a Lalley Electric Lighting Conference was held in 1868 at the home of present E. A. system William Kettelkamp. System. In 1941 the R. was installed. Also, in 1940, the present By 1869 the congregation had increased modern two-car garage was constructed. to such an extent that private homes were About this time, too, the present basement no longer adequate for church meetings. At was dug under the church, which has since a meeting on May 5, 1869, the groups decided served for Sunday School classes and other on the building of a church. Two acres were group meetings and banquets. deeded to the congregation by the Krummel the major church improvements family and construction on the church edifice Among of the last decade are the following: complete was begun. In 1871 William Kettelkamp, Sr. redecoration of the church interior; installa- deeded two acres to the congregation, upon of glass windows; an which the present Kettelkamp Cemetery was tion beautiful stained altar established. electric organ; a church and commun- ion rail; and the erection of a large neon- Two of the first to become local preach- church ers from the South Fork congregation were lighted cross, replacing the old Fred Kettelkamp and August Kettelkamp, steeple. who received their license to preach in the From the time of the first missionary year 1869. The first ordained minister to be preacher to the South Fork congregation in appointed to the South Fork Church was the 1867, twenty six ministers have comprised Rev. E. H. Kriege, in 1870, who served for the preaching staff of South Fork. The twen- three years. During the pastorate of Rev. F. ty-sixth is the present pastor, Rev. Jack K. R. Koenig, second in the line of regular ap- Christian, who is now beginning his fifth pointments, a four room parsonage was built. year of service to the congregation. Through- Not until 1884 was the other half of the first out the years eleven young men from South parsonage added. Fork have dedicated themselves to min- Yearly increase in membership necessi- istry, and five young women have become tated a larger house of worship and the ministers' wives. church annex was planned while Rev. C. J. The present membership is 185 persons. —32- are active in the church and regular in their attendance.

It is a history of achievement. Everj period in its history shows some project com- pleted. (In 1907 the old church was im- proved and enlarged. In 1919 the parsonage was enlarged. In 1922 a basement was put under the old building. In 1930 a pipe organ was purchased and the present Sunday School organized. In 1936 a house was pur- chased for Sunday School classes. In 1946 work was begun on the climax of its history, the present building.) But its greatest achievement is one which is not always noted in the records. The blessed message that LUTHERAN CHURCH TRINITY Christ is Lord and Savior has gone out from three generations of people. The history of Trinity has best been written in the faith and of Nokomis' one hundred For sixty-three hope of these men and women, who have years, Trinity Lutheran Church has been given far more than a church to Nokomis, part of our community. Since October 8, they have given Christ. 1893. the familiar white building has stood It is a history of fellowship. During its on Pine and Franklin Streets, and the people 63 years, Trinity has been served by nine worshipped there have been taking an who resident pastors. They are Pastor Paul Kolb, but four active interest in Nokomis. Then, 1895-96; Pastor Wm. Kowert, 1902-04; Pastor years ago, in 1952, the old building was re- Ph. Estel, 1904-05; Pastor O. H. Henkel, placed by a new, dedicated to the glory of 1906-11 and 1916-29; Pastor E. H. Gade. God and the welfare of our neighbors. Be- 1911-16; Pastor A. E. Richert, 1930-37; Pastor Alvin Mueller, 1938-43; Pastor E. H. Beke- tween these two dedications, the newest and meyer, 1944-53; and Pastor R. J. Martens, the one of the oldest buildings in town, much present pastor. These are men who have written. Many lives were history has been come, left their mark, and gone again into blessed. Many sacrifices were made. It is others fields of service. Yet in these years, a history in which not only Trinity's mem- under many leaders, facing many problems bers may rejoice, but one which our whole together, Trinity has enjoyed peace. They have truly, in the words of the Apostle, "with community may pause to note. one mouth and one mind glorified God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." It is a history of growth. In 1893, there were but nine men in the congregation. These were the men whose courage and con- viction were responsible for its organization. Their names are familiar ones in the history of this community: Henry Buechsenschuetz, Leonard Buechsenschuetz, Albert Eckhoff, Henry Haake, Henry Hinrichs, Luebbe Jans- sen, Carl Kellerman, John Woltmann. Today their faith has been rewarded. Trinity Luth- eran Church now numbers 420 members in 163 families. 96 children attend its Sunday School. The great majority of its members -33— AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY PAST PRESIDENTS PARLEY of the On the evening of March 24, 1922, a The Past Presidents Parley organized meeting was called to organize an Auxiliary American Legion Auxiliary was active organi- to Waples Bauer Post No. 94. A charter was Oct. 7, 1937, and has been an granted with 24 members. Membership in zation since that time. the the Auxiliary shall be limited to the mothers, Meetings are held once a month at wives, daughters, and sisters of all men who homes of the members, with a business meet- were in military service of the United States. ing followed by a social hour. Also the women in their own right are eligi- The Parley was organized solely for the assist- ble. The first president was Mrs. Dora purpose of giving financial and moral Crumbaugh. ance to our hospitalized nurses in the hos- pital at Norbury's in Jacksonville. Each Auxiliary Unit is organized and Our Parley has an active group of directed by the State Department of Illinois. twenty-eight members. Above the State Department is the National Department. Each year delegates are sent * * * * to the County and District meetings and the Clippings From 1889 Free Press State Convention. The Auxiliary has charge Nokomis celebrated 100th anniversary of the Junior Auxiliary. of Washington's inauguration as President. sends a girl to Each year the Auxiliary "Wells Tooley - a heart smasher, crusher, Illinois Girl State. Memorial Day a bas- On fell swooper and destroyer. As he looms up in the ket or wreath is placed on the cannon in imposing dignity among the knots of femi- Per- cemetery in memory of all our dead. nine beauty that sparkle and scintilate around graves of petual markers are placed on the him and drops his witicisms and repartess as each of our members. they are proper responses to the occasion, Donations are given to the Child Wel- generous rivalry sways the group and sallies fare, Treasure Chest, Insulin, Vaponefrin, de esprit contend for his attention." Canteen Books, Chritmas Gifts Shop, Easter Closing school program: Recitations by Gifts, Easter Seals, Veteran Craft, Yank- Sammie Hiett, "The Boy"; Walter McCaslin, Who-Gave, Auxiliary Loan Fund, National "The Hottentot"; Charlie Pullen, "The Greedy Security, T. B. Bonds, Christmas baskets, Mouse"; Eddie Hubbard, "The Young Speak- Jacksonville and Alton State Hospitals, Red er"; Inez Gelly, "The Doll's Mission"; George Cross, Polio Fund, Heart Association, Crip- Russel, "A Boy's Troubles"; Edgar and Elmer pled Children, Nokomis Memorial Park Shoemaker, "Our First Attempt"; Edna Green House, and books have been given to the li- "Don't"; Edith Gelly "The Millionaire and brary in honor of deceased members. Barefoot"; Roy Webster, "The Jolly Old Cow" Anna Bess, "The Little Light"; Arnold The Auxiliary serves the Senior Vice Eekhoff, "The Boy's Complaint";' Claudie Commanders' Banquet each year, which is Middleton, "A Careless Word"; Nannie usually held in January. Pullen, "Little Jim", Martha Handschy. Poppies are sold on Poppy Day and "Little Goldenhair"; Dunn Weaver, "Vaca- prizes are given to the children for the best tion", Lillie Rosche, "The Newsboy's Debt"; poppy posters. Flowers and cards are sent to Charlie Littlefield, "Willie Briggs"; Dora Gold Star mothers and baskets of fruit, can- Law, "A Little Girl's View of Life in a dy, and cigarettes are sent to veterans who Hotel." March 9, 1889. are ill. There is an active Past Presidents Emma Scales attended Teachers' Nation- Club. al Association in Nashville, Tenn. Regular meetings are held on the third "New Babcock brand fire engines ready Monday of each month. At present the for use. Now for a hook and ladder com- membership is 139 and the president is Mrs. pany." Lucille Schaefer. "Croquet is the popular game." -

AUK

V. F. W. The Veterans of Foreign Wars was or- ganized and received their charter Feb. 9, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1947. There were 50 charter members. First meeting hall was above the Candy Factory; NOKOMIS COUNCIL NO. 2189 second was in the Charles Kerr building. The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic They are buying their present building next men's organization. The local council No. to Sides Grocery. All veterans having over- 2189 was granted a charter from the Su- seas duty during time of war are eligible to preme office at New Haven, Conn., on Sept. be members. 19, 1920. There were 96 charter members. They support all civic programs and Present membership of the council is 140 have donated three hospital beds to the members. The first Grand Knight was Fred community. Ernst. The present Grand Knight is Wm. J. Dale Johnson is the present commander Boehler. The first Chaplain was Rev. C. and Forrest Rhoades is the adjutant. Johannes and the present Chaplain is Father • • * * John J. Hogan. The local council meets on the first Monday night of each month at the St. Louis School. * * * * OF AMERICA HOME BUREAU Bureau in the NOKOMIS NAVY MOTHER S The five units of Home local area are among the 15 which made up CLUB NO. 557 the Montgomery County Home Bureau at The first Navy Mother's Club was orga- the time of its organization. Preliminary nized June 26, 1930, at McAllen, Texas. steps toward county organization were taken Later, National and State organizations when Mrs. Alden Snyder brought to Hills were formed. There are now 790 clubs in boro Mrs. Kathryn Van Aken Burns, head of the United States. the Home Economics Extension service, to The Nokomis Navy Mothers organized meet with a few women from each township. March 1944, with 25 charter members. 3, A permanent organization, with Mrs. W. R. The purposes for which this organiza- Goby of Raymond as president, was effected tion was formed are to promote a program on August 14, 1936. Two Nokomis women, of education, welfare, and social interests Mrs. Louis Colonius and Mrs. R. J. Wattjes, between the parents of Navy men and Sr., were helpful in securing members. The women; to encourage contentment, efficien- first home advisor was Mrs. Mabel Albrecht. cy, patriotism and pride among the men and present chairmen of local area units women serving in the United States Navy. The Mrs. Roy Pocock, College Hill; Mrs. C. W. The spirit of the organization is to act are Mrs. Adam Betzold, Nokomis- as a proxy to other mothers' sons and daugh- Cox, Irving; Walter Redeker, Rountree; ters while those mothers are taking care of Audubon; Mrs. Witt. Lois Elliott is our sons and daughters. Mrs. Harlan Durston, advisor, Margaret Dickerson, assis- There are still 24 sons and two daugh- home ters of Navy Mothers in active service. tant. in the We have helped with many civic pro- The units hold monthly meetings They jects and drives in our local community, Park House or homes of members. create the giving of our time and money. sponsor 4-H Clubs. Their aim is to homemakers in Proceeds from our tag sale is donated best informed and equipped for welfare among hospitalized veterans. their communities. -35— ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR Nokomis Chapter No. 138 Order of the Eastern Star was organized on April 19, 1889, for the purpose of promulgating Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Mrs. Sarah Manning was elected Worthy MASONIC LODGE NO. 456 A. F. & A. M. Matron and James Scott, Worthy Patron. A In June of 1865 application was made by charter membership of fourteen has grown eleven Nokomis men for authority to estab- to 170 at present. lish a lodge of A. F. & A. M. in Nokomis. This jurisdiction maintains two homes: Temporary officers were elected and a hall one at Rockford, Illinois, and one at Macon, rented for a meeting place. This hall was Illinois. above the W. F. Mulkey store, at the corner In 1939 Nokomis Chapter observed its of State and Spruce, the site of the present 50th anniversary with an official visit of the place of meeting. Worthy Grand Matron. A charter for Nokomis Lodge No. 456 Mrs. Jean Hulbert and William Hulbert was received on Oct. 4, 1865, and the follow- are the present Worthy Matron and Worthy ing permanent officers were elected: Martin Patron. Miller, Worshipful Master; W. F. Mulkey, * * * * Senior Warden; James Welch, Junior War- BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL den; John H. Matkins, Senior Deacon; John WOMEN'S CLUB W. Hancock, Junior Deacon; M. V. Easterday, The Nokomis Business and Professional Secretary; S. L. Latimer, Treasurer; S. P. Women's Club was organized in 1928, with Mulkey, Tyler. a membership of 38. The first permanent The lodge has now reached a member- officers were Stella Yackle, president; Gene- ship of 259. Meetings are held the second vieve Bender, vice-president; lone Wild, Wednesday of each month. The present of- secretary; Imogene Bess, treasurer. ficers are as follows: Bliss Parker, Jr., Wor- those holding membership to- shipful Master; Raymond Miles, Senior War- Seven of day were charter members. There have been den; J. R. Worthington, Junior Warden; Max oldest, now Moody, Treasurer; H. A. Arnold, Secretary; several honorary members. Two Antje Eekhoff and Mrs. Orville Moreli, Senior Deacon; Al Compton, deceased, were Mrs. Junior Deacon; Cecil Polley, Senior Steward; Mary Pier. Harold Battles, Junior Steward; Kenneth Projects of the club show a special Wiseman, Marshal; Ed Sperry, Chaplain; Roe interest in the girls of the community. They Darst, Tyler. have sponsored Camp Fire Girls, Girl Scouts * * • * and 4-H Club. They have helped needy high school girls, furnishing clothes, medical aid, T. U. W. C. and glasses. At present they are sponsoring The W. C. T. U. is the lmeal descendant the Brownies. of the Great Woman's Crusade which began Community service includes furnishing December 23, 1873, in Hillsboro, Ohio. It is city street signs, contributing to the estab- made up of men and women, striving, lishment of the Park House, and entering through an educational program, to make floats in the Homecoming parade. their communities better places in which to Each year they entertain the high school live. In 1879 Illinois became the 5th state senior girls and give a mother-daughter ban- organized. That same year Nokomis orga- quet. Formerly they gave a bosses' banquet nized a W. C. T. U. Today 72 counties have annually. W. C. T. U. organizations. The principles, as The present officers are Amber Hill, written by Frances E. Willard and adopted in president; Gwendolyn Hieronymus, vice- 1874, are those to which members still pledge president; Velma Hardy, secretary; Mary themselves. Lakin, treasurer.

-36- ")

E. Anderson, W. Hulbert, H. C. Kettelkamp and Edward Ovca. The application of the -'Ideal of Service by every Kotanan to his personal, business NOKOMIS ROTARY CLUB and community life, makes a fitting tribute How very appropriate for the Nokomis to "The Century of Progress" of the Noko- Club to be celebrating its thirtieth anniver- mis trading area. May "Service Above Self" sary, and Rotary itself 51 years, along with be the ultimate goal. I 'Deceased the Nokomis Centennial. * • * * An organization meeting of the Nokomis GREETINGS FROM YOUR Rotary Club was held in the basement of St. TOWNSHIP OFFICERS Mark's Lutheran Church, January 26, 1926, Louis W. Woltmann with the following officers: H. A. Arnold, Supervisor pres.. L. K. Vandever, vice-pres.. O. J. Stiehl, Genevieve S. Holmes secy., Wm. Bald, treas., Phillip Koucheveris, Town Clerk sgt. at arms, A. T. Woltmann, song leader, Jesse W. Eckhoff and A. J. Schroeder, pianist. The charter was Highway Commissioner presented to the local club May 4, 1926. Homer Schaefer From the time of its organization, to the Assessor present, the club has taken an active interest Town Board Pilgrim in community affairs; lack of space makes George Fullerton Edward Kettelkamp Henry Stanley it impossible to enumerate the many Milton things Nokomis Rotarians have accomplished We are here to serve you. in the past 30 years. * • * • The first regular Rotary ,\nn meeting BETA SIGMA PHI was held Oct. 28, 1926. Since that date two The Illinois Zeta Gamma Chapter No. to four such meetings have been held each 2608 of Beta Sigma Phi, an International year. Probably the outstanding programs Sorority, was organized by Mrs. C. H. have been the Mothers' Day gatherings. The Troutner, January 8, 1947, with eight mem- first inter-city meeting was held with the bers, a social sponsor, and an educational Hillsboro Rotary Club Sept. 23, 1926. director. The charter members were H. A. Arnold. Beta Sigma Phi is a social, cultural, and members be- A. T. Woltmann, A. E. Vandever, L. K. Van- philanthropic organization. The live as an dever, Phil Koucheveris, A. J. Schroeder, lieve that "their chief right to useful." So, by Wm. Bald, Milo Johnson, O. J. Stiehl, Dr. J. organization is the right to be of their abilities, their M. Hoyt, J. J. Fries, A. O. Kettelkamp, Dr. giving generously they strive to promote F. M. Porch, Fr. C. Johannes, E. M. Jenkins, time and their energy, Charles Tomlinson, Boyd Pond, E. F. Pann- the welfare of their associates, the commun- the nation through organized human- witt, H. I. Mayes, and H. O. Pinkerton. Of ity, and especially interest- these. E. F. Pannwitt, A. J. Schroeder, and itarian projects. They are and in the program of O. J. Stiehl are still members of the club. ed in cancer research Locally, the chap- The local Rotary Club has 42 active Polio prevention and care. members, with various classifications for ter have supported every worthwhile activi- each member; all have nick-names. The pres- ty in the community. numbers ent officers are Donald McDermith, pres., The present membership has served Charles Hinkle, past pres., William Hulbert, twenty-three. Mrs. Earl Jenkins sorority since its vice-pres., Fred Heck, secy. -treas., Lloyd as Social Sponsor of the Davis*, sgt.-at-arms, F. B. Johnson, historian, organization. have Mervin Johnson, song leader, L. W. Wolt- Educational Directors in the past E. Palmer, Mrs. C. R. Gleich, mann, ass't., A. J. Schroeder pianist, and been Mrs. D. Mrs. Floyd Barnstable Irvin Singler, ass't. The board of directors Mrs. Russell Sellett. capacity. are Donald McDermith, George Priddle, J. is now serving in that

-37- Rodell Satterfield, Ralph Scheller, Ike Smith, Elio Tosetti, James Tosetti, Prima Tosetti, James Vancil, Edmund Vandever, Clyde Vancil, Geno Vighi, Henry Wexstten, Jr., Guy Wharton. NOKOMIS LIONS CLUB • • • • The Nokomis Lions Club was organized REBEKAH LODGE by twelve men on March 19, 1952. The No- On the night of Feb. 16, 1910, a group of komis club was sponsored by the Hillsboro people met at the I. O. O. F. Hall and formed Lions. Charter Night was held at the South the Nokomis Rebekah Lodge No. 226. A Grade School gym on May 22, 1952, with heavy snow was falling and forced all to forty members present. The first officers remain in the building till morning. The were Glenn Johnson, pres.; Lee Dawson, purpose of the lodge is to promote a frater- sec y.; the Rev. John S. Rhine, treas. nal spirit among its members, educate the In the few years the local club has been orphans, and care for the aged. organized the members have been very ac- The lodge has been honored by having tive in this community. A few of the various four District Presidents in its membership. projects are as follows: Aided in the pur- Like other orders, the Rebekah Lodge has chase of a wheel chair for Connie Kroenlein had its ups and downs but is still going. who was stricken with polio. Sponsor Boy • * * • 99 jointly with St. Mark's Scout troop No. CLUB Lutheran Church. Sponsor a boy each year NOKOMIS WOMAN'S to Boys' State. Sponsor the Lions Pony On November 4, 1911, the Nokomis League team. Aided in the organization of Household Science Club was organized, Little League Ball and now provide umpires whose purpose was to work in harmony with for the Little League games. Sponsored the the Montgomery County Farmers' Institute. "March of Dimes" in Nokomis in 1953, 1954, However, on December 14, 1915, the 1955. Conducted several drives for used Household Science Club disbanded and re- clothing which was turned over to the super- organized as the "Nokomis Woman's Club." visors of Nokomis and Audubon Townships. Music, art, literature, and household science Sold Brooms made by the Blind. Helped were the subjects chosen for study. In support the Hadley School for the Blind lo- January, 1916, the first officers of the Noko- cated in Chicago, and Leader Dog School, mis Woman's Club were elected. The officers Rochester, Mich. Built sewer and rest rooms installed were president, Mrs. Charlotte at Memorial Park and will complete a wading Eekhoff; first vice-president, Mrs. Anna pool at the Park in April of this year, at a Taylor; second vice-president, Miss lone cost of approximately $8,000.00. Wild; recording secretary, Mrs. Kate Bald; Present Membership corresponding secretary, Miss Ruth Cassel- berry; treasurer, Miss Virginia Griffin. Dean Anderson, Frank Berns, Howard Bell, Monroe Berns, James Brackenhoff, During the first year, the membership Gene Brown, George Buchko, Norman Bean, consisted of fifty-seven members, but that H. C. Bricker, Ronald Calvetti, Robert Co- number decreased during the depression. tanch, Louis Cesaretti, Mike Charnisky, Jeno They struggled valiantly to maintain 3 Collebrusco, Maurice Crow, Lee Dawson, library, with Miss Hettie Wells as one of the David Easterday, Walter Fricke, Paul Fabulo, first librarians. Fernand Guyot, Darwin Gibson, Clarence Nokomis Woman's Club is federated Hard, Richard Holloway, Rudy Hribar, Jack with the County, District, State, and the Hall, Wm. Kennedy, George Hinton, Paul General Federation.

Layer, Charles Lehnen, Nels Melin, Robert The aim of every Woman's Club is to Martens, Victor Michlautz, Paul Obregar, build better communities with more under- John S. Rhine, William Saatkamp, Jack Sale, standing and more religion. —38— Nokomis City Council

Clarence Hard

T. H. Harrison, City Clerk

Homer Stanley, Mayor

Alvin Hagemeier

Primo Tosetti

Gerald Cain

Meets First And Third Monday of Each Month

CITY COUNCIL Recreational facilities have not been

The City Council is the governing body overlooked, as is attested by the purchase of of Nokomis. The aldermanic form of gov- playground equipment and park upkeep. ernment was in effect until 1929, when the The last city election was held in April, commission form was adopted. Through the 1955. Kenneth Kellerman, who was elected many decisions of the council, some too small mayor, died a few months later. The office to attract public attention, some so great as was filled by Homer Stanley, a council mem- to cause controversy, Nokomis has forged ber. This council is resurfacing East Union ahead in beauty, in security, and in well-be- Street and South Elm from Union to Route ing. 16. North Spruce, from Route 16 to the Only a few of the outstanding acts of Raymond road, is being black topped, and past councils can be mentioned here. One of curbing and gutters are being installed. the first which was to begin the change of Some new sewers have been put in and a Nokomis from a small country village to a great number of water connections have beautiful little city was to put in pavement been made resulting in more revenue for the and concrete sidewalks in 1911. The install- city. Another source of revenue is the park- ation of ornamental lighting on State Street ing meters installed by the council in 1948. in 1923 added to this "new look." The office in the city hall has been improved The councils have kept pace with the and the city clerk moved into it. Several needs of all departments by the purchase of bonds, with interest, have been paid off, and needed equipment, such as trucks for the a substantial reserve in the Federal Reserve street department and the water depart- Bank of East St. Louis has been built up for ment, and a police car. Antiquated hand future payment of bonds. drawn fire trucks were replaced by the motorized type in 1922. These, in turn, were It is the avowed policy of this council to replaced by the present trucks in 1947. do only the urgently needed things, so that Two outstanding accomplishments for the indebtedness may be paid off as fast as the health and comfort of the community possible. Definite plans for the future, as were the installation of a water softener, soon as money is available, include: acquisi- about 1923, and the construction of an up-to- tion of more fire equipment and a building date, efficient disposal plant in 1954, replac- for its shelter; more sewer connections; the ing an outmoded plant. widening of West Union Street.

? : ,f) County organizations. Each year the Post has carried on the tradition of the G. A. R., honoring the veterans of all wars in com- memoration of Memorial Day with fitting ceremonies. After the beginning of W. W. II the charter of the Legion was amended to THE AMERICAN LEGION accept into membership these veterans. Later Korean Veterans were admitted. The WAPLES - BAUER POST NO. 94 Legion was directly responsible for the new

legislation known as the G. I. Bill of Rights, FOR GOD and COUNTRY we associate furthering the welfare of these veterans. The ourselves together for the following purposes: majority of the Post Commanders since 1946 to uphold and defend the constitution of the have been selected from this group. United States of America; to maintain law Commanders and order; to foster and perpetuate a one- Past Willis, 1920 hundred percent Americanism; to preserve 1919 John John Oltmann, the memories and incidents of our associa- 1921 David Baird*. 1922 Carl Olmstead*, J. Stiehl, tions in the great wars; to inculcate a sense 1923 Louis Nantkes, 1924 O. 1925 of individual obligation to the community, John Cook, 1926 Elmer Wilson, 1927 Emil state and nation; to combat the autocracy of Wells, 1928 Charles Newport, 1929 Harry both the classes and the masses; to make Weaver*, 1930 J. E. Anderson, 1931 Nels right the master of might; to promote peace Melin, 1932 Emory Weakley, 1933 Gus Bow- and good will on earth; to safeguard and ers, 1934 Chester Pocock," 1935 Rene De- transmit to posterity the principles of justice, Larche*, 1936 James Thornhill, 1937 Albert freedom and democracy; to consecrate and Smith, 1938 Pearl Crow*, 1939 Earl Jenkins, sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to 1940 Charles Pick, 1941 A. R. Evans*, 1942 mutual helpfulness. Fernand Guyot, 1943 L. W. Woltmann, 1944 In August, 1919, a Post of the American Fred Layer, 1945 George Carr*, 1946 Frank Legion was organized in Nokomis by Col. Obregar, 1947 George Fullerton, 1948 Mervin George Seaman of the Department of Illinois. Johnson, 1949 Wilbert Brueckner, 1950 Ken- The name selected was WAPLES - BAUER neth Kellerman*. 1951 Mario Costa, 1952 POST NO. 94 A. L., being named after two Frank Berns, 1953 Marion Loop, 1954 Del- veterans who were first to make the supreme bert Lehnen, 1955 James Guyot, 1956 Guy * sacrifice during World War I. This was the Wharton. ( ) Deceased. first Post organized in Montgomery County * * * * is at present and the largest post in the 1889 county. Also the Montgomery County Coun- "Coal mine under discussion Feb., 1889." cil had its beginning with the Nokomis Post. "John Paddock attended inauguration of In 1933 the Post purchased the present Le- President Harrison - March, 1889." gion Hall which was financed by the mem- bers and friends, and in 1941 the final note "Proposal for a mill. Solicit subscribers was burned. A banquet and ceremony were for stock - McGrew Hartsock. Opened held in appreciation of the many favors mak- July, 1889." ing the purchase possible. This also was the "The May Bretonne Company gave a beginning of the annual State Vice Com- very satisfactory - refined, chaste, entertain- manders' banquet held each year since. Some ing & highly pleasing - entertainment at of the vital programs carried on through the Weaver's Opera House." years are the sponsorship of Junior Baseball, "Nokomis Creamery - 30,000 pounds School awards, Boys' State, Community ser- butter fat in July." vice, and primarily service work on behalf "Contract signed to macadamize a por- of the disabled and needy veterans. The tion of State St.-$1,500 per block." Post has furnished a large number of legion- "W. M. Todd, young attorney, locates in aires as leaders in the State, District and Nokomis." —40- The Anti-Horse Thief Association was first organized in 1854 by Major David McKee. With horse thieves and all sorts of criminals having free reign throughout the country. Major McKee and a few of his close friends met at the Highland School house in Clark County. Mo., to see what might be MONTGOMERY COUNTY ANTI THIEF done to restore some law and order. It was ASSOCIATION AND GOPHER HILL in this meeting that the Anti-Horse Thief SUB ORDER NO. 296 Association was born. The Anti-Thief Association — What It Is In September of 1863, Major McKee, What It Is Not. who had been honorably discharged from The Anti-Thief Association is an organ- Civil War service with the Union Forces be- ization composed of law abiding citizens who cause of physical disabilities, called a meet- have banded themselves together for the ing at Luray, Mo., of all the former A.H.T.A. mutual protection of its members against members that could be reached. A tempor- thieves and other criminals and to cooperate ary organization was set up and the meeting with the civil authorities in apprehending adjourned to meet again at Millport, Mo. and bringing to justice all such offenders; to The Millport meeting began October 23, 1863, educate our citizenship in the love of the with eleven members present at the first Flag, in patriotism, and in charity to the session. The first constitution and by-laws needy and to all the Order. were adopted and officers elected. The A. T. A. is a fraternal order and is The first sub-order Charter was issued Its both a detective and a protective order. at a subsequent meeting held March 21, 1864, members assist each other in time of sickness with representatives of eight sub-orders and distress. present. A. T. A. is a patriotic organization; The In 1881, State Orders were formed under is to uphold the law of the land. its objective the jurisdiction of a National Order. It teaches patriotism and greater respect for The following sub-orders, with the ex- the law to its own members. ception of Gopher Hill, Sub-Order No. 296, The A. T. A. is a protective organization; are members of the Montgomery County thieves fear and shun it. A. T. A. which was organized Jan. 19, 1937: The A. T. A. is a secret order, but secret South Audubon Sub-Order No. 285 only so far as necessary to carry on its work. ' Organized April 1, 1920 The A. T. A. is an officers' Aid Society. North Nokomis Sub-Order No. 300 R works in close harmony and cooperation Organized Oct. 3, 1921 with the sheriff and police officers to uphold Rountree Sub-Order No. 327 the law, order, and justice. Organized Feb. 26, 1923 The A. T. A. is chartered under the laws Phillips Chapel Sub-Order No. 343 of the state in which it operates. Organized 1924 The Anti-Thief Association is not a law- Little Hickory Sub-Order No. 378 less vigilance committee, but is opposed to Organized Oct. 20, 1926 mob violence in any form and will expel any Sub-Order No. 438 member that takes part in a mob. None but Wares Grove Organized April 3, 1939 law abiding citizens is permitted to join the Sub-Order No. 418 order. Fillmore Organized Feb. 2, 1947 The A. T. A. is not a political organiza- Irving Sub-Order No. 274 tion - members of all parties belong. Organized Mar. 4, 1947 The A. T. A. is not connected in any way Sub-Order No. 440 with any religious denomination, sect, or New Prospect Mar. 26, 1947 creed. Organized No. 296 The A. T. A. does not violate one law to Gopher Sub-Order 1921 uphold another. Organized Sept. 12, Nokomis

Public

Library

NOKOMIS PUBLIC LIBRARY who served as secretary of the Board. This Many good libraries have had very set up exists today. The Board acts in an humble beginnings in the home of some advisory capacity and is responsible for gen- active club members whose fellow club mem- eral policies and disbursement of funds. The bers joined forces to buy and circulate books Library, located one half block from the among their own group. main street, is now open 28 hours a week. Such a group was Nokomis Woman's The present Library includes a large, Club who gathered their privately owned attractive reading room, a non-fiction study book collection in the home of a member room and a small room for storage, magazine who lived near the shopping area of the files, office supplies and equipment. Monthly town. Gradually the collection outgrew Board meetings are held in this room. space available in a private home and was In 1954-55 over 21,000 books were cir- moved to rented quarters on the town's main culated to some 900 readers. Three schools street. It was attended by a club member were serviced and many special orders re- and supported and augmented by the sale of ceived monthly from the State Library. The handmade articles and contributions from Library owns about 6,000 volumes of fiction members of the Woman's Club. and non-fiction and subscribes to 35 maga- In the mid-thirties, the collection be- zines. About 675 new books were added came part of an authorized WPA Library. last year. During this period, many valuable books Many adult clubs in the area have held were added. More readers were served and meetings in the Library for instruction on more hours made available for browsing and its use. Such topics as reference, card cata- borrowing books. log, Dewey Decimal System, fiction, non- About 1941 the Library was again fiction, biography, vertical file, periodicals sponsored by the Woman's Club and re- and audio-visual aids were discussed. ceived some aid from the Township and the Weekly Hobby Shows, a Gallery of Nokomis Coal Mine. It was open 12 hours a Local Artists and occasional Story Hours are week and the gigantic task of sorting, classi- special features of the Library. fying and cataloging was begun. Knowledge, accompanied by human In 1950 the Library became township interest and sympathy will lead to a Public supported by vote and its administration waiting at the Library doors-and the Library turned over to the Supervisor and a Library with assurance, will meet the challenge to Board of 6 women and a trained librarian become "The People's University." —42- FAMILIES OF NOKOMS

Many names appearing in this section of the Centennial History are no longer listed in the current directory of Nokomis.

Many other families are not included. This grettable.

From covered wagon days to this very week, families have come and gone or come and stayed. Always their influence has remained. Their lives have colored the fabric through a hundred years. ARCHIBALD FAMILY E. minister in an Indiana Conference, mar- William Archibald, Sr. was born in ried Miss Anna Lee. He studied at Barber- Ayrshire, Scotland, on Dec. 9, 1824. He was ville College in Kentucky, received his married to Miss Margaret Gilmour of Ren- Masters Degree from Northwestern, then frewshire. In 1868 they came to the U. S., finished at Garrett Biblical Institute in settling in Macoupin Co. In 1881 they moved Evanston. They have one son, James Hugh, to the Nokomis community. Their family a student at La Porte, Ind. H. S. numbered eleven, all of whom lived to adult- David Maurice, second son, was married hood except Agnes, who died at the age of to Miss Estella Stanley. They live on the eight. farm where he was born. He has never In 1899 an epidemic struck the locality called any other place, "Home". They take in which they lived. When it had passed, the an active interest in all organizations for the parents and three sons, Hugh, Will and good of the farming community and civic Robert had been taken. With true courage welfare. They have one son, David Stanley, those who were left accepted the changes in who recentlv completed four vears in the U their lives and carried on. S. Navy.

Hugh who had married Miss Margaret A third son, Hugh, Jr., was married to Morris was combining farming and school Miss Cecil Dean. He had prepared himself teaching. Mrs. Archibald remained at the for the ministry studying at the Ozark farm and cared for their three small sons. Wesleyan College, and finishing at the Gar- Will, a teacher in H. S. had been living at rett Institute in Evanston. He passed away home and Robert was farming with his in 1935. Mrs. Archibald resumed teaching father. Two others were in homes of their and cared for their two daughters. Margaret own. George at his farm near Rosamond and was graduated from Blackburn College, Elizabeth, Mrs. Drake, lived in Audubon. Carlinville and is now a laboratory techni- The younger ones, left at the farm, cian at the Burge Hospital in Springfield, stayed on for five years, then separated. Mo. Ruth studied at Greenville, 111. College. Janet was married to Mr. Paul Calame, She is now Mrs. Melvin Boston of Spring- Mary resumed teaching, John purchased the field, 111. They have a little son, David Hugh. North Side Livery which he operated during The sons of Irwin and Elizabeth Archi- the pre-automobile days, James took up the bald Drake are Frank A., who has lived in study of medicine, graduating from the St. Decatur for years, was married to Miss Louis University. He was located in Nokomis Mary Newcomb. They have four children. A for several years as a practicing physician. son, Harlan, served with the armv in World Then after more study became a specialist War II. in the X-ray and its uses. He was connected Hugh A., who was married to Miss Sadie with the St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Danville, Morgan, a teacher in the rural schools, lived 111., at the time of his death in 1940. Charles in Nokomis for a few years. They have re- R. graduated from the St. Louis College of cently purchased a new home in Blooming- Pharmacy in 1911, and was employed in St. ton where he is employed. Their one son, Louis when called to service in World War James, served in the U. S. Navy during I. When discharged he returned to Nokomis. World War II. He is now employed at He passed away in 1942. Bloomington and lives at home. Of the family of eleven only two are Daughters of Paul and Janet Archibald living: Mary K., who resides in Nokomis, Calame: Mary Grace, who attended Brown's and John, who was married to Miss Edna Business College in Bloomington, was Gordon in 1932. Their farm home is near employed in the office at a large stock farm Bernie, Mo. Mrs. Archibald's former home near Delavan. Later she married the son of was on Prince Edward Island, Canada. There her employer and lives at this farm which are eight grandchildren. has belonged to several generations of Three sons of Hugh and Margaret Browns. They have one son, Morris Paul Lewis, Archibald are Darrell, who is a M. recently married, who will receive the Agri- 44 cultural Science Degree at the close of this he was graduated, August, 1949. They have year's work (1956) at the U. of I. one son, born Feb., 1943. William Earl Iona Margaret, who graduated from Bevill. Evanston Hospital School of Nursing in 1934 Carl was graduated from Nokomis H. S. Charleston, and received the B. S. Degree from North- then attended the E. I. T. C. at western University in 1935, married Mr. P. 111., from 1950 to 1951. He joined the U. S. February, 1956. J. Tyler. She holds the position of Super- Navy in 1952, discharged vising Nurse of the Bell Telephone Co. They There are two children: Thomas Allan and live in Chicago where Mr. Tyler has busi- Susan Elaine. ness interests. • * * * Marjorie Jeannette, who became a BOURQUIN FAMILY teacher, was married to Mr. Roger E. Abram Bourquin, one of the first breed- Stevens, whom she met at the Blackburn ers of Brown Swiss Cattle in Montgomery College, Carlinville. They live on a farm County, was born in Ohio in 1854. He came near Jerseyville that has belonged to the to Nokomis in 1879, purchasing the farm on family for years. They have five daughters: part of which Coalton has since been built. into Nokomis in 1899 Joanne, who is in nurses' training at the The family moved the Deaconess Hospital in St. Louis, Mary Jane, and, soon after, Mr. Bourquin purchased Cara Gay, Janice and Jeanne. There are Belknap property which he plated for fifteen great grand-children. Bourquin's Addition. * * * The Bourquins moved to Spokane, • Washington, in 1905. Mr. Bourquin met with an accidental death in 1914 and Mrs. Bourquin passed away in 1949. Their daughters still live in Spokane—Jessie now being Mrs. E. M. Glassburn, and Naomi, a teacher in the public schools. * * * * BROWN FAMILY Mr. S. B. Brown came to Nokomis in 1893 and afterward became associated with Mr. Chase Wells in a men's clothing busi- ness. The firm was known as Wells and Brown. This firm's business was discontin- ued after many years and Mr. Brown be- came an employee of the Nokomis National Carl, Mrs. Bevill, Floyd, Mr. Bevill Bank. He was married to Miss Luella Snell who BEVILL FAMILY passed away in 1946. To this union were Mr. Charles Bevill. who was born in born two sons: Paul Maurice and Judd Snell. Witt Twp., was married to Miss Lillie Ver- Both grew to manhood, finished the course icker on August 8, 1923. In 1943 they moved of study in Nokomis schools and later their to Chicago. courses at the U. of I. Both are now deceased. Nokomis They have two sons: Floyd Earl and Mr. Brown was elected mayor of for Carl Eugene, both married; Floyd to Miss and filled that position very satisfactorily Jane Thompson and Carl to Miss Nelda two terms. active mem- Griggs. Mr. and Mrs. Brown were Flovd was graduated from Nokomis bers of the M. E. Church of which he was a also member of the School H. S. in 1942. Later he attended E. I. T. C. trustee. He was a years. Since his retire- at Charleston, 111. He was with the Naval Board for a number of Nokomis but Air Corps from 1943 to 1945, and attended ment, Mr. Brown has lived in U. of Tenn., at Knoxville, Tenn., from which spends the winters in Winona, 111. —45— HUBERT ARTHUR BRYCE CARSTENS FAMILY the foremost citizens of Noko- Hubert A. Bryce, who farms about 3} 2 One of was Mr. John Cars- miles west of Nokomis, is a native of the mis, in her earlier days community in which he lives. He was born tens who was born in Haltland, Germany. settling at Alton. on June 28, 1897, to William F. and Lula He came to the U. S. in 1852, Belle (Lingle) Bryce. Here he was married to Miss Jeanette Hughs who was of Scotch descent. Their family The Bryce family, natives of Scotland, numbered five: four daughters and one son. lived some years in Canada before coming Mr. Carstens enlisted in the Army in 1861 to Montgomery Co. and settling in Butler. It and was enrolled in Co. K. 9th 111. Infantry. was in Canada that William F. was born to Later he became Captain of what was known James and Janet (Forbes) Bryce. In this as the Preacher's Co. D. 122nd 111. Infantry family circle were three daughters and three and served until the close of the war. sons, as follows: Miss Grace, Christiana In 1868 the family came to Nokomis, (Mrs. Ed. Collier), Nettie (Mrs. Ed. Randall ), where Mr. Carstens opened a hardware and George, William, and Arthur. grain business. He was very successful and as About 1870, Mr. James Bryce moved his the enterprise grew, it was known as Car- family to a farm in Nokomis Twp. where he stens and son. He was elected in 1888 as opened a blacksmith shop. With the help of Representative to the State Legislature the sons he was able to carry on both occupa- where he was an efficient member. He was a tions successfully. While on this farm the staunch Republican, a member of the G. A. younger members attained adulthood, mar- R. and of the I. O. O. F. ried and each took his place in the commun- A daughter, Mrs. Anna Shannon, is still ity. When Mr. and Mrs. Bryce retired and living. A grandson, Harold Arnold, and a moved to Nokomis to spend their remaining grand daughter, Mrs. Jeannette Schaper, years, the son, William, and wife occupied still live in Nokomis. Mr. Carstens died in the home place. It was there they reared 1913 and Mrs. Carstens in 1937. their family consisting of the son, Hubert, and a daughter, Letha. Mr. and Mrs. Wm. * * * * CASE Bryce continued to reside on the farm until FAMILY In 1856 brothers, their death. Mr. Bryce passed away in 1942 two John and Samuel T. Strider, and Mrs. Bryce, in 1945. came to the Nokomis community from Harper's Ferry, West Virginia. They In his youth, Hubert attended the rural were among the earliest settlers. At his school in his community and was graduated death John was sixty-four years of age. His from the Nokomis High School in 1915. His grave was the first one made in the Nokomis life has been spent in farming except for a Cemetery. His wife passed away in 1898 at time when he attended Millikin University, a the age of eighty-one. year in Florida, and the time spent working Samuel T. Strider's family also spent on a freighter traveling from New Orleans their remaining years in Nokomis. Mr. to ports in South America. On June 16, 1942, Strider held the office of tax assessor at one he was married to Miss Grace Walton who time and was police magistrate from 1872 had been a teacher in the Decatur Public until 1886. They were members of the St. Schools for nineteen years - having previous- Mark's Lutheran Church where there is a ly taught several years in Montgomery Co. record of their deaths. Mr. Strider died in In 1939 she received a B. Ed. degree from 1897 at the age of ninety, and his wife pass- I. S. N. U. ed away in 1891 at the age of eighty. Their For a time the Bryces lived in Nokomis, family numbered eleven. but later bought a farm west of the city. Molly, the youngest of the family, They occupied that property until three married Robert Middleton. He was a police years ago when they built a completely mod- officer for a time and a farmer for a number ern brick house on their adjoining farm, of years. He preceded his wife in death. Two where they are now living. daughters, Claudia and Lujenia, live near —46— Nokomis at present. Mrs. Middleton is was confirmed in the Lutheran faith and remembered by all who knew her for her attended St. Mark's church in Nokomis. pleasing personality. She passed away in * * * * 1941. EEKHOFF FAMILY Her daughter, Claudia, was married to Gerhard Eekhofi came to this country Mr. Harvey Case in Washington, D. C, on from Germany in 1854. He married Antje January 20, 1898. The ceremony was per- Woltmann, also a native of Germany. They formed by the Rev. T. Dewitt Talmage. first lived on a farm near Nokomis. Later Mr. Case had lived in Bunker Hill where Mr. Eekhoff was in the mercantile business he attended the Military Academy, and was in town with his brother-in-law, Mr. John stationed in Washington, D. C. for a time. Woltmann. After his death Mrs. Eekhoff with Wolt- After his father's death he returned to 111. to continued her association the take charge of the estate, coming to the farm mann Store for many years, becoming north of Nokomis where the family still re- affectionately known to the community as sides. Lujenia became a teacher in the No- "Tante Antje." in komis Public Schools, but is now retired. There were five children the family: of J. F. Reinders; Andrew J.; She is married to Mr. Joe Huber. Johanna, wife Anna, wife of W. R. McCaslin; The family of Harvey and Claudia Case Arnold G; Kathryn, wife of the Rev. W. J. Kowert, are Howard, who manages the farm and is Trinity Lutheran church at that considered an excellent business man, much pastor of the time. daughters were born to the Rein- interested in agriculture; and Virginia, who Two ders, four to the Kowerts, and one son to the taught in the Nokomis Public Schools and McCaslins, all of whom have children and also in schools near by, but is retired. have grandchildren. As descendants of one of the old-time two of whom families in the Nokomis community, the Case Most of the five Eekhoffs left Nokomis after marriage. Arnold family is held in high esteem, as true friends within a few years and good neighbors. and his wife, Elizabeth, returned for a * * period to take charge of the J. Woltmann Co. • * store. The McCaslins made their EASTERDAY FAMILY south side home in Nokomis from 1932 to 1947, when Mr. Elias S. Easterday was born in New Walter established headquarters here for his Somerset, O., on Oct. 4, 1834. At the age of engineering firm. Anna, who is the sole twenty-one he came with the family to the survivor of the original family, now resides Nokomis community. At that time (.1855) in California with her son. our city was just a station stop for the rail- Only Andrew spent his entire life here. way trains. He was married in 1908 to Miss Charlotte On Feb. 20, 1861, he was married to Holmes of Chicago, a Nokomis High School Sarah Elizabeth Pyle and they lived on a teacher. In early life a printer, he later farm until 1880 when they moved into town. conducted a wholesale poultry and egg Mr. Easterday began work here as a carpen- business. He was postmaster from 1913 to ter. Their family numbered five: Edgar, 1921 and again from 1935 until his death in Jessie, Walter, Mabel, and Karl. At this time 1940. During this time he also carried on an only two are living—Mabel and Karl. There insurance business. were three grandchildren: Wayne, son of The name of A. J. Eekhoff was intimate- "Walter and Lula Graden Easterday; Anna ly associated with civic, school, church and Mae and David, children of Karl and Lydia political affairs. He held the offices of mayor, Engelman Easterday. Wayne, now deceased, president of the school board, Sunday School leaves three children, Harold, Donald and superintendent. Church councilman, and Louise. David's three sons are Dan, Marc, numerous others. He was a leader in move- and Ken. So there are six grandchildren. ments for the advancement of his home town Anna Mae, now Mrs. Flesher, has no family. and made an outstanding contribution to No- Mr. Easterday, at the age of fourteen, komis community life. EVANS FAMILY G A. R. and was commander for one term, Wm. B. Evans (1856-1918) and Hattie J. then vice-commander. Being one of the Evans (1866-1930) lived their entire lives in tallest he always carried the flag on their Nokomis. Mr. Evans was active in city affairs Memorial Day march. Mr. Foster passed having served as police officer and constable away in 1905 at a hospital in Chicago where for many years. Mrs. Evans was a faithful he had gone for treatment, and Mrs. Foster worker in the Presbyterian Church and died July 6, 1929, at the home of her son, Order of Eastern Star. They were the par- Ross, in Fillmore. ents of ten children: Preston, Verne, Agnes, * * * * Leigh, Frances, Mildred and Harold. Reaves, GELLY, FREDERICK, O'DONNELL Benny and Sadie are deceased. We are proud FAMILIES to honor our parents at this Centennial Robert Gelly was born in Ireland in 1845, Celebration. and came to this country when he was five. • * * * His parents settled on a farm near Trenton, FOSTER FAMILY Illinois, and Mr. Gelly bought a farm south- The subject of this sketch, Mr. George east of Nokomis in 1870. In 1876, he mar- Foster, was born in County Tyronne, Ireland, ried Mary Ellen Richardson, who had been in 1839. He was the son of James and Mar- teaching school in Trenton following her garet Foster who brought their family to graduation from Presbyterian Female Semi- America in 1847 settling on a farm in Scioto nary at Jacksonville, Illinois. Co., O. Their crossing the Alantic was a After a few years, the couple moved into very stormy time. The vessel, a sailing one, Nokomis, where Mr. Gelly was active in was crowded and at one time during a storm community affairs. A staunch Republican, the passengers were ordered to throw some he was never an office-seeker, but served as of their possessions overboard, to lighten the postmaster here from 1889 to 1893. For some load. In one of the Foster chests, cast into years he had a general merchandise store on the sea, was the family Bible containing Main Street and was later associated with names and dates. his son, George, in general insurance. He When the Civil War broke out Mr. was one of the early directors of the Nokomis George Foster enlisted as a private in Co. E. Building Association. Mr. Gelly died in 1915, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His company was and Mrs. Gelly died two years later. sent to raid the Va. and Tenn. Railway. They Of their eight children, the oldest, Leona, met the enemy at many points: Lexington, was a typhoid victim in 1898. George, an Staunton, and Winchester, at which place invalid throughout his life because of a boy- they were attached to Gen. Sheridan's troops. hood injury, and a well-known figure on At the second battle of Winchester Mr. Fos- Main Street during the early 1920's, died in ter was wounded and sent to a hospital in 1926. Sadie, who taught music in Nokomis Philadelphia. He had recovered and joined for many years, and later married Ray C. his comrades, when news came of Lee's sur- Wilson, died in 1953. render. Of the surviving children, Robert Gelly, In 1867, having come to Montgomery Co., Jr., lives in Van Buren, Arkansas, having re- 111., he met and married Miss Lucetta Pattin- tired from his pharmacy there. Ingalls, also gale, daughter of a prominent and well-to-do a retired druggist, lives in Indianapolis with farmer from whom she inherited the farm his wife, formerly Florence Brenner of No- which was the Foster home for seventy-two komis. Rexford is a jeweler in Muncie, years. They were the parents of five chil- Indiana. The two daughters, Mrs. J. F. dren: Margaret, Joseph, Hattie J., Daisy, O'Donnell and Mrs. H. G. Frederick, have and James Ross. None is now living except always lived in Nokomis. Margaret, who is Mrs. Kensil of Shelbyville. Mrs. O'Donnell, formerly Edith Gelly, Mr. Foster was a staunch Republican, was married to J. F. O'Donnell in 1903. Mr. casting his first vote for Abraham Lincoln. O'Donnell was with the Paddock Lumber He was a member of the Cottingham Post Company and later worked for some years

48 Harry, after graduation from the School in the office at the North Mine. He died Journalism at Illinois, was a report. m- on here in 1943. of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin when Pearl Har- Their daughter, Esther, was graduated bor was attacked. He covered the fighting in from University of Illinois and married L. E. the Pacific for United Press throughout Nantkes in 1936. Mr. Nantkes is president World War II. and is now editor and pub- of the First National Bank and is a well- of the Bangkok Post, the only English known Nokomis business man. Mrs. Nantkes lisher language newspaper in Bangkok, Thailand. teaches in Nokomis High School, and their The Gelly family has been closely as- son, Donnell, is a student there. sociated with the life of Nokomis over a Cecil O'Donnell attended Bradley Poly- period of 86 years, with the two daughters, technic Institute. He served with the Navy one grand-daughter, and one great-grandson during World War II and is now a jeweler in still living here. San Mateo, California, where he lives with Ethel. * * * * his wife. ALF GRIFFIN FAMILY Mrs. Frederick, formerly Inez Gelly, Mr. Alf Griffin came to Nokomis in 1878 was married in 1904 to Henry G. Frederick, having accepted a position in the National who had come here from Pana about 1900 as Bank. a cigar manufacturer. Mr. Frederick died Later, with his brother, Jesse, he opened in 1920. and Mrs. Frederick became a teacher a hardware and furniture store, but after a in the Nokomis schools, retiring after 28 time disposed of his part to his brother. years of teaching. He then became interested in the Real Mr. and Mrs. Frederick had five chil- Estate and Loan Business, and in 1907 he the oldest, edited the Free dren. Charles, helped organize the Farmers' National Bank. Press-Progress for a time, and after his He was its president until he retired in 1920. graduation from University of Illinois served Mr. and Mrs. Griffin ( Belle Freeland) Assistant Dean of Men there until called as with their daughters, Genevieve and Vir- to active military service in 1940. He became ginia, were members of the St. Mark's the Army Air Corps during a colonel in Lutheran Church. Mr. Griffin passed away World War II, and is now with the Air Force on Dec. 7, 1942. as Secretary of the Joint Army-Air Force * * * * Welfare Board in Washington, D. C. HALLER FAMILY Ruth, who attended MacMurray College The subject of this sketch, Jacob Haller, at Jacksonville, has been with the American was born in Ross Co., O., on Jan. 25, 1834, had National Red Cross for 25 years, having and with his parents moved to 111. in 1842. assignments in Europe during World War II, When about eighteen, he, with a group of and in both Europe and the Far East since young men, made a trip across country to the that time. She has just gone to Guantanamo California gold fields. He was very fortunate Bay Naval Base, in Cuba, to be Red Cross in opening a productive mine and also in Field Director. obtaining farm land in the Sacramento George has always been associated with Valley, which he operated successfully for the candy business. A past president of the eleven years. National Association of Candy Manufactur- Mr. Haller was married while in Cali- ers, he is now in New York as president of fornia to Miss Nancy Ann Abrahamson, and Loft Candy Company, the largest in the on the trip back to Illinois, they came by sea, world. He is married and has three children. around Cape Horn. Their family numbered Olga was graduated from Washington ten of whom only six reached adulthood: University, and is married to Dr. Alfred Catherine, Nancy, Eugene, Millie, and Gellhorn, Director of Cancer Research for Milton. They lived in Audubon Twp. for a Columbia University Medical School. They time, before moving to their large farm, just live in Englewood, New Jersey, with their south of Nokomis. Mr. Haller was one of the five daughters. founders of the Nokomis National Bank, and —49- the trip in six a director during his life-time. He was an their provisions. They made able financier, ever upright and honest in months and fourteen days. mar- his methods, a Mason, and, with his family, He returned after two years, was attended the M. E. Church. He passed away ried to Mary Matilda Whitmore, and resumed eleven in 1916, Mrs. Haller in 1920. A grand- farming. They were the parents of daughter, Mrs. L. R. Kessinger, still resides children of whom only one is now living. in Nokomis, also a great grandson, David When Lincoln called for troops at the Kessinger and his familv. beginning of the War between the States, * * * * sixteen young men met at a saw mill south HARTSOCK FAMILY of Nokomis and pledged each other to enlist. kept the pledge. All enlisted and Mr. L. M. Hartsock was born in Johns- Everyone far as is only Mr. Hill and one ville, Md. in 1841 on a farm in Frederick as known McNichols, returned. Mr. County. When four years of age he was left other, William Butler into an orphan and lived with another farmer Hill was mustered in at Camp Co. Illinois Infantry. They were sent on near by. He had very little schooling and B 73rd joined Sherman's entered a flour mill at eighteen to learn the to Louisville, where they of the Cumberland. trade. He worked at several mills in Md., Division of the Army ville, River, but in 1872 he came to the E. A. Cooley & This army fought at Perry Stone It was a Co's. flour mill at Nokomis. He and Mr. Murfreesboro and Chickamauga. Hobson bought this mill later and at Mr. hard campaign and saved the State of Tenne- Hobson's death he acquired it all. Back of ssee for the Union. it lay the well remembered Mill Pond which After his return from the army, Mr. Hill supplied water for the steam boilers, and began again with taking care of his farm and also gave the youngsters a winter skating: continued until his retirement, when he rink. In 1888 the mill burned. In 1889 with' moved into town. He was a member of the B. F. McGrew, Mr. Hartsock built a new Cottingham Post, G. A. R. 150 bbl. roller mill nearer the railway and Mr. and Mrs. Hill celebrated their later bought McGrew's share. It was known fiftieth anniversary, and ten years later as The Nokomis Roller Mills. His products their sixtieth. Mrs. Noll, their daughter, were sold in New England, New York and came to share it with them, from Bethany, even exported. It was in this mill Mr. Hart- Missouri, where she resided until her death. sock fell and his death was the result. Mr. Hill passed away in 1918 at the age He was married to Miss Frances Cooley of eighty-four, at his home in Nokomis. His in 1868, a native of Indiana. Their family con- funeral was held under the auspices of the sisted of two boys and two girls. All are de- G. A. R. Rev. S. A. Mcintosh conducted the ceased. services, he being the minister of the M. E. They built the lovely residence, near Church at that time. the mill on the corner of State and Oak St., • * * * which still is one of the nicer homes facing HUBBARD FAMILY Route 16. Isaac G. Hubbard was born in Ashta- * * * * bula, O., Nov. 10, 1835, and came to Hills- HILL FAMILY boro in a covered wagon in 1872. Later he The subject of this sketch, Lewis Hill, bought eighty acres, one and one-half miles was born near Fillmore in 1834. Later the southeast of Nokomis, establishing a nursery. family moved to a farm in Audubon Twp. He devoted his time to growing hedge, ever- known as the Burk place. When Mr. Hill greens, berries, and fruit trees. Mr. Hubbard was about twenty years of age, news came developed the Champion Peach, which took from California of the discovery of gold. With prizes at the World's Fair in Chicago, in 1893. a group of young adventurers he started for He raised and budded hundreds of trees each the gold fields. They travelled on foot driv- year making sure they were true to name. ing a large herd of cattle, with three covered Mr. Hubbard married Miss Alice wagons drawn by teams of oxen carrying Mowbry in 1874. Her father helped in —50— building and finishing the steamship, Great WILLIAM KETTELKAMP FAMILY Eastern, that laid the Trans-Atlantic Cable. William R. Kettelkamp came from There were five children: Iola C, who Germany to Montgomery Co., 111., by way of passed away on Dec. 21, 1955; Isaac, a Edwardsville. He was married to Miss physician in Manson, Wash.; Edward D., a Lisetta Bollman. Their family numbered Nokomis dentist; Alice, and Kate, wife of W. five: Samuel R., who was one of the first F. Bald. All attended and were graduated rural mail carriers at Nokomis, married Miss from the Nokomis Schools. The family were Emma Best, lived for a time on his farm and members of the St. Mark's Lutheran Church is now retired. They celebrated their golden where Mr. Hubbard was a deacon for several wedding anniversary in Dec, 1953. years. Mr. Hubbard passed away in Texas Frank, who was a postal clerk at where he, Mrs. Hubbard, Iola, and Alice had Nokomis for twenty-seven years, has retired. lived for a time. He was buried at Nokomis. He and Mrs. Kettelkamp celebrated their golden wedding Nov. 23, 1954. The fruit from the Hubbard Peach Or- Albert O., who was Postmaster in chard was shipped in baskets, hauled to time and later mayor of the Nokomis or Oconee by wagon. Mr. Hubbard Nokomis for a city, moved to Hot Springs, Ark., where he and Fred Price were the first to spray passed away in 1939. orchard trees, in this locality. • * * * August, who was killed by a tractor at the home place, left a son, Edgar, on the farm HUGENER FAMILY and a son, Gilbert, Professor of Education at Mr. Clemens Hugener, soldier, farmer, the U. of I. butcher, miner, and handyman came to the Clara, who married Mr. George Hardy, Velma one of the U. S. from Switzerland in 1880. At that time is the mother of Miss are he was twenty years old. After several Nokomis teachers. She and Mr. Hardy years he sent passage money to Miss Maria both deceased. Scroggins, a lady he had never seen. She William Kettelkamp purchased land was a sister of his brother's wife. They were north of Nokomis; after farming for a num- married in Nokomis in 1890 and spent the ber of years he retired and came into the rest of their lives in this city which was over city. fifty years. He died in 1945 and Mrs. Huge- He owned eighty acres of land off the ner in 1951. north and east city limits, and had part of it This is one of the newer Their family consisted of two sons and laid off into lots. sections of the city and is known two daughters: Clara, now Mrs. Jann whose residential as "Kettelkamp's Addition." home is in Mattoon; Paul, who passed away part in the South at the age of 21; Marie, now Mrs. Gorka who He took an active one of the lives in Chicago; and Christian, who for Fork M. E. Church and was about 35 years has been the local electrician. founders of the Grace M. E. the land for He was married to Miss LaRue Brookman of His brother, Fred, donated of Nokomis. Irving in 1919. They have had four children: the Kettelkamp Cemetery, north Mary K., wife of George Bryce who is Post- • * * * master now at Irving; Blanche M., a regi- LAW FAMILY stered nurse, wife of William Nash, of the Mr. Fredrick Law, one of the pioneers, Montgomery Service Co.; Paul O., deceased; was born in Baden, Germany, in 1843. He Roberta J., wife of a prominent Butler far- came to the U. S. by way of Canada and in mer, Carl Niehaus; and Christian, Jr. of the 1867 opened a harness shop in Nokomis. He U. S. A. F. at Wichita, Kansas. was very successful and by good manage- property in The Nokomis citizens are made quite ment acquired many pieces of lands. conscious of Chris Hugener when any elec- Nokomis and valuable farm in 1868 to Miss Susan- tric trouble strikes, and he is on hand as He was married passed away three quickly as possible. nah Jane Barringer. She -51— born in Nokomis years later leaving two daughters, Rosina in 1947. A son, Walter Roy, in the Nokomis and Nellie. who subsequently worked living now in Arcadia, Calif., has In 1873 he married Miss Amanda Cole. Postoffice, Their family consisted of two sons and a three children. daughter, one son dying in infancy. Charles Hugh married Florence Lock of Hills- Until 1910 he Law married Miss Florence Durdy and is boro. He was a pharmacist. in Nokomis. now deceased. Dora became the wife of worked for Kempton drug store in Snyder, Charles Crumbaugh and still makes Nokomis Later he owned a drug business her home. Okla., until his death in 1949. He was then Okla., on the Daley cattle One grandson, Fred Crumbaugh, has won residing in Okay, owned. There are two sons: recognition as an artist. His paintings have ranch, which he lives in Chickasha, Okla., has been shown at several National exhibitions Harold, who three children; Ronald, who lives in Tulsa, and at the 111. State Galleries. children. Earl died in 1906 Mr. Law died on March 24, 1929. Mrs. Okla., has two married Ross A. Law's death occurred Oct. 23, 1949. at the age of 19. Ginevra Taylor of Oklahoma, a civil engineer. They • * * * live in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. McCASLIN FAMILY * * * * Marshal Oliver McCaslin was born in H. C. MILLER FAMILY 1854. His father, Demarcus Asbery McCaslin, Harry C. Miller and his wife, Florence grandfather, Hugh McCaslin, great-grand- Condo Miller, came to Nokomis in 1900—Mr. father, James McCaslin, a native of Ireland, Miller as Superintendent of Schools. Later lived in North Carolina and Kentucky. They he combined law practice with real estate settled in Illinois in 1828. business. Their children are Mrs. William Marshal grew up on a farm near Noko- E. Carson (Alta), Kansas City Kansas; Mrs. mis. In 1879 he married Mary Angeline James P. Haynes (Agnes), Louisville, Ky.; Gaines, daughter of George Washington and Mrs. Carl Treece (Vinita), Grand Junction, Elizabeth Gaines of Donnellson, Illinois. Colo., Mrs. Gunnard A. Nelson (Florence), After their marriage they lived in Macoupin Overland Park, Kansas, and Mrs. John T. county for nine years, moving to Nokomis in Hand (Harryet) River Rouge, Mich. The 1886. Here they continued to live the rest of family home was at 220 East Union. Mr. their lives. They were members of the Miller died in 1947, his wife, in 1952. Baptist Church. Marshal, at one time, was Nokomis city * * * * marshal. He was a building contractor until THE DR. J. C. OSBORN FAMILY he retired in 1923. His wife died in 1932, at Dr. and Mrs. J. C. Osborn, formerly Miss the age of 74. He died in 1947, at the age of Rhoda Rush, came to Nokomis, from Jersey- 93. ville in 1873. They lived for a time on a farm. Five children were born to the couple. Later having studied to become a veterinar- Lester Guy, Walter Roy, Hugh, Earl Asbery, ian at Charleston, 111., Dr. Osborn opened and Mary Ginevra. Lester died when four an office in Nokomis. His coming meant months old. much to the farmers and stock raisers of the Walter, married to Anna Eekhoff, be- community. He was an alderman for twenty- came a civil engineer. The family lived in four years and acting mayor during Mayor Kansas City, Mo. from 1914 to 1932. Upon Woltmann's trip to Europe. returning to Nokomis, Walter became active The family numbered ten, only six of in community life. He was vice-president of whom lived to adulthood, and only two still the A. Lincoln Council of Boy Scouts of living—Mrs. Mae Neely and Mrs. Ethel America. He became city engineer, a posi- Hansen. tion previously held in 1910. His engineer Mrs. Osborn was a direct descendant of contracting firm, "McCaslin and Company", Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration was in business here at the time of his death of Independence in 1776.

52 1

F. J. PANNWITT FAMILY children. Their daughter, Margaret, is mar- In 1882 a young blacksmith and horse- ried to Kenneth R. Wood, who is a statisti- S. Quarter Master Depot in shoer, F. J. Pannwitt, came to Nokomis to cian at the U. They two children: a son, work for J. L. Freasier whose shop was lo- Chicago. have cated on the back of the present Post Office Paul P.. and a daughter. Diane. sun. Paul, after serving in the site, facing the park. Their married In 1885 he bought out Mr. Freasier's army eleven months in Korea, present con- business and property and was married to Marilyn Bauman. They are at the former Miss Margaret Essman of Bland, Mo., the duct hit; Layer's Store located in selling gifts, same year. By hard work he expanded the Schaper Drug Store building, paints, electrical appliances, and T.V. sets business until it employed six men, and his Since selling their business in 1946 Ed- 1 k m \ Pannwitt farm wagons built in been secretary-treasur- shop were to be seen on the highways around win F. Pannwitt has Nokomis. er of the Nokomis Building Association and Fred P. Layer has been a traveling salesman In 1904 he bought out the Challecombe selling housewares. implement business, corner of Central and Spruce Streets and sometime later sold the * * * * blacksmith business to Louis Priess. In 1908 Mr. Pannwitt's son Edwin F. Pannwitt, just home from Gem City Busi- ness College, was taken into the business and the firm name changed to F. J. Pannwitt and Son, under which name the business contin- ued until it was sold in 1946. In 1912 the two story brick building next to the implement store was built and the hardware business added to the imple- ment business; in 1916 furniture was also added. Mr. F. J. Pannwitt died on October 8, 1919, and the business was continued by his son, Edwin F. Pannwitt, and his daughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Fred P. MR. AND MRS. A. P. PAUSCHERT Layer. The implement business was sold in 1884-1955 1885- 1920 and the hardware and furniture busi- Born at Shelbyville, the Pauscherts ness in 1946. Mrs. Pannwitt died in 1928. grew up, went to church and school, and Edwin F. Pannwitt was married to Effie married there, on June 19. 1907. Before W. Battles in 1908 and they have two chil- their marriage she had taught school; he had dren. Their daughter Alice May married clerked in a clothing and dry goods store and Rev. Reynold E. Best, at present pastor of studied photography, practiced the profession West Seattle Baptist Church. They have a while in Louisville, Ky.. and bought a one daughter, Suzanne. studio in Colfax, McLean county, 111., in 1906. they soon Their son Fred J. Pannwitt married There their first son was born; Barbara Semple of New York City and they came to Nokomis, purchased the old Whittle- have two daughters, Monica Jean and Eliza- sev Studio, and opened it as "The Pauschert beth. Fred received the Master's degree in Studio" Dec. 15, 1908. journalism from Columbia University in The studio was operated continuously business New York, served in the Navy in World until they retired and closed out the - after 45 years of service War II, and is now in the editorial depart- at the end of 1953 developed ment of the Chicago Daily News. to the community in which they ac- Florence L. Pannwitt was married to and deeply valued and enjoyed a wide the photographic Fred P. Laver in 1919 and they have two quaintance while recording -53— history of families from births, through con- He was married to Miss Almeda Cole. Their firmations, graduations, and marriages, to family numbered ten of whom only four deaths. lived to adulthood: George, Frank, William, At the time of their retirement, Mr. and Bessie. Pauschert was the Nokomis business com- Charles Schaper was a carpenter, but af- munity's senior business man in point of ter coming to Nokomis in 1865 he, with oth- continuous and unchanged operation. ers, conducted a lumber business. The firm Immediately upon reaching Nokomis, in was known as Webb, Carstens, and Schaper. 1908, they affiliated with St. Mark's Lutheran He was the first president of the Board Church and remained active therein, both of Trustees when Nokomis was organized as long occupying offices in its organizations. a village in 1867. He also served as Town Mrs. Pauschert was the first president Clerk, Assessor, Justice of the Peace and of the Grade School Parent-Teacher Associ- President of the Schoool Board. He passed ation. She was a life member and past away in 1904. president of the St. Mark's Missionary So- William Schaper, son of Charles and Al- ciety, and president for many years of the meda Schaper, was married to Miss Mollie Ladies' Aid. She was affiliated with the Durdy. They had no children. They lived in Royal Neighbors. Mrs. Pauschert died Aug. Nokomis for a time, later moving to Indian- 11, 1955, after 5-months' illness. apolis, Ind. He was a salesman for the firm Mr. Pauschert served 28 years on the of Hollweg and Reese, wholesale dealers in St. Mark's Church Council, was Sunday chinaware. He passed away in 1917. School Superintendent many years and sev- Another son, Frank H. Schaper, was eral times president of the Men's Brother- married to Miss Julia Herman of Raymond. hood. He served 9 years on the old Grade He was a painter and interior decorator in School Board of Education, and several years Nokomis for many years. He passed away in as secretary of the Merchants Association. 1920. His family consisted of a son, Roy, and In 1927, the last election under the alder- a daughter, Nina. Roy was married to Miss manic form of city government, he was Huldah Kettelkamp in 1918 and lived for elected city treasurer, and after completing several years at Nokomis. They are the par- elective that 2-year term was re-appointed ents of a son, Kenneth, and a daughter, term after term by succeeding mayors under Yvonne Schaper Lewis. Both are married the commission form until 1952. He is now a and have families. of the Board of Directors of the No- member While in Nokomis, Roy was associated Building Association, komis and has property for a time with Floyd Sides in the grocery interests in Pana. continues He to occupy firm known as Sides and Schaper, and later the family home. with C. W. Barnstable in a feed and hatchery There are 2 living children, and 2 grand- business. He now lives in Pana where he op- children: Donald of Pana, secretary-treas- erates a business of his own. In his business urer and general of manager Pana News, ventures he has been very successful con- Inc., publisher of the Pana News-Palladium, ducting affairs with marked ability. The son the Tower Hill Times, and the Herrick Bul- and daughter live in Pana and are associ- letin; and Helen, wife of Attorney George ated with the Schaper Feed and Hatchery. Aichele of Western Springs, 111., and their Nina, now Mrs. Roitero, lives at the fam- two sons, George and Donald. The Pausch- ily home place in Nokomis. erts' 3rd child and younger son, George Paul, George H., eldest son of Charles and Al- died here of poliomyelitis in 1931 at the age meda Schaper, married Miss Leora Culp. He- of 10. was five years old when the family came to * * * * Nokomis in 1865. He attended the Nokomis SCHAPER FAMILIES Schools and afterward entered the Shurtleff Charles Schaper was born in Wester- College in Alton, 111. He began work for Day brook, Germany, and came to the U. S. at the and Upstone at their drug store, at the age age of twenty-one, locating at Hillsboro, 111. of sixteen, and later purchased the business. —54- He was continuously at this store, at the proud of any part it may have had in help- same location— 109 W. State St.—for sixty- ing make Nokomis the city we now all live nine years, or until the day of his death in in and of which we are so proud. 1945. He was a successful business man, held * • * * in high esteem by all who knew him. He held SIPPELL FAMILY the following offices: City Clerk, Director of Mr. George Sippell was born in Ohio in Nokomis National Bank, Member of the 1845. He learned watch-making at Coving- School Board for twenty years, and also of ton, Kentucky. In 1868 he opened a jewel- the Cemetery Board. He was connected with ry store in Nokomis, retiring in 1902. all the civic organizations of his time. His He was married to Annie Eliza Hale in family numbered three - Edward, Fred C, 1871. A daughter, Mrs. Essie Randle, lives and Newell. now at Clayton, Mo. Edward was graduated from The St. Mr. Sippell was a director of the Noko- Louis College of Pharmacy and was asso- mis National Bank, for many years, and was ciated with his father in Nokomis. He mar- president from 1893 until his death in 1911. ried Miss Genevieve Smith. Their family He is remembered as a man of scrupulous consisted of one son, George Eugene, who integrity. died at about thirteen years of age, and a • * * * daughter Jane, now Mrs. John Wright, who SPERRY FAMILY passed away in lives in Detroit. Edward The Sperry ancestors ( Puritans or 1953. Separatists) lived in England previous to Fred C, the second son, after finishing 1600. Being persecuted by the Episcopalian Nokomis High School attended the Gem Government, they fled to Holland where City Business College at Quincy, 111. He was they were again persecuted; then they se- associated with his father in the drug store cured a grant of land located in Virginia for many years. At present he is with the from the King of England and came to State of 111. as Revenue Tax Inspector. He America on a Dutch sailing vessel about the was married to Miss Helen Tevis whose death same time as the Pilgrims. They may have occurred in 1942. Their daughters, Leora been stowaways in the Dutch slave ship in Schaper Kralik and Sue Schaper Balzrina, 1619. (Who knows?) They made a settlement have families of their own. Leora resides at in Virginia and named the town Sperryville Cali- Hillsboro, 111., and Sue in San Diego, which now is on U. S. Route 211. After two fornia. The present Mrs. Fred Schaper was generations they moved to Ross Co., Ohio, Miss Marie Lebkuecher of Beardstown. They where they lived two generations, then have recently built a new home on School down the Scioto and Ohio Rivers, up the Street, Nokomis. Mississippi to Quincy, 111. Shortly after the Newell, third son of George and Leora Sperry family left the boat at Quincy, 111., an Schaper, was married to Miss Mary Harter explosion occurred, which sent boat and cargo of Indianapolis, Ind. They have one son, to the bottom of the river . Then to Barry, Ralph Newell, who is a Baptist minister, Pike Co., where Hiram B. and Mary Ann is Later living in California. He married and ( Doran ) Sperry were married in 1858. three children bless this union. Newell has they moved to Waverly and Auburn where been a professional pianist at Kansas City Hiram Sperry was the only teacher in each for over twenty years, and for many years, school. In 1864 to Audubon Twp. where he

1 ' Station . 31-10-1 and Chris and is now, Staff Pianist at Radio bought the E L of S. W. , W. D. A. F. and T. V. Balsley bought the W 1 j S. W. 31-10-1. On Bessie, the only daughter of Charles and this 160 acres was a one-room log cabin in Almeda Schaper, years ago moved away which these families lived. Such was pioneer from Nokomis. She lived in Chicago until life. her death in 1923. Present generation: Cicero Sperry, Nor- The Schaper name has been intimately man Sperry, Milo Sperry, Minnie Penne- associated with Nokomis since 1865, and is packer, Mary Graden, Mattie Huddleston,

-55- Winchester, lone Traylor, Clarence Sperry, Edgar Sper- ried Miss Barbara Watters of is in Fairfax, Virginia. ry, Nettie Lounsbury, May Sperry. Living as Mass. Their home S. government in Washing- of 4- 15- '56: Mary Graden, Nettie Lounsbury. He is with the U. May Sperry and Edgar Sperry. Large fam- ton, D. C. Anna Elizabeth married Alvin O. of St. Paul, Minn. They reside ilies, farmers, 40' \ school teachers, 60', Fuhrmann Methodist and Baptist, Anti Socialists, Re- at Palos Verdes Estates, California. Their Michi- publicans. Indebted to library for history, to only son, Alan Taylor, is a student in Reisner has Stranges, to Traylors, and to histories of gan State College. Mrs. been Montg. Co. most successful in the business world, and * * * * lives at present in Washington, D. C. TAYLOR FAMILY • * * * About the year 1850 Mr. and Mrs. George THE VANDEVER FAMILY Taylor came to Illinois from New Jersey by A. K. Vandever, A. E. Vandever and in 1908 way of Niles, Michigan, and Alton, Illinois. Lester K. Vandever came to Nokomis They settled on a farm north of Nokomis starting in the newspaper business by pur- where Mr. Taylor became interested in the chasing the Nokomis Progress from W. P. buying and selling of farm lands. Later Hagthrop. This partnership continued until they moved into town where he aided in 1918, at which time A. E. Vandever pur- founding the Old Nokomis National Bank. chased the interest of his partners and with He was an executive of this organization un- Luther E. Shoemaker consolidated the two of til his death. Nokomis papers under the name the Free Their family numbered five: Augusta, Press-Progress. William, Eugene, Jerome, and Horace. Au- A. K. Vandever was born in Moweaqua, gusta and Jerome never married, and lived 111., September 4, 1855. His parents were in or near Nokomis all their lives. Aaron S. and Isabella Vandever, the former, Eugene married and brought up his fam- a practicing physician at Oconee, Illinois. ily on the home farm, where one son still re- He was following his profession there when sides. Later he moved to Kansas, where he in response to his country's need he enlisted purchased extensive wheat lands. in Company I, Thirteenth Missouri Infantry, Horace married after moving to Chicago. and was wounded at the battle of Fort Don- He became a well known cartoon artist. He elson. In 1863 he moved to Irving, 111., but was associated with the Chicago Record he never recovered from his wound which Herald, a daily newspaper. Later, becoming ultimately caused his death in 1868. It is a a free lance artist, he did work for Harper's, matter of record that Aaron S. Vandever and Everybody's, and other prominent maga- Isabella Slater were the first or second couple zines of that time. to be married in Audubon township. William was married to Anna Dravo When 27 years of age A. K. Vandever Day, on April 20, 1880. He was associated began teaching school in Montgomery County with the Old Nokomis National Bank at that and in 1900 he turned his attention to jour- time. Later he conducted a mercantile nalistic work by publishing the Irving Times; establishment. He was born June 26, 1857, he was active in the best interests of Irving and passed away on Sept. 11, 1920. Mrs. and later in Nokomis. He was married in Taylor was born on Oct. 22, 1862, and died 1884 to Miss Mamie Haller of Irving. They on Nov. 23, 1934. Their family consisted of have both departed this life. two daughters: Florence Elizabeth and Nella A. E. Vandever remained actively en- Day. gaged in the newspaper business for 45 years, Florence Elizabeth, the younger, was a but in 1953 he retired on account of failing successful business woman for many years. health. A. E. Vandever was married in 1908 Her death occurred on Jan. 2, 1951. Nella to Miss Lela P. Bond of Irving, and to this Day was married to Farrish Arnot Reisner union was born one son, Edmond B. Van- in 1906. Their family numbered two: Ernest dever. They have four grandchildren. Mr. William and Anna Elizabeth. Ernest mar- Vandever served Nokomis as Supervisor and -56— Mayor. He was a member of the Rotary Beck and later they purchased the home Club and his lodge is the Nokomis A. F. and farm, two miles southeast of town where A. M. 456. they spent the remainder of their days. Lester K. Vandever, leaving the news- They were highly respected by everyone as paper profession in 1918, attended law school good neighbors and true friends. Their and practiced law in Nokomis and Witt for family numbered three: Clyde, now deceased a number of years. It was while living in who married Miss Cordelia Pierson; Nellie Nokomis that he was elected State's Attorney E., who became the wife of Henry Opperman of Montgomery County; he also was appoint- and who died on April 13, 1954, the result of ed as Assistant Attorney General. It was an automobile accident; Clara Grace who be- while filling the office of State's Attorney came Mrs. Hubert Bryce, and lives now on a that he moved to Hillsboro to practice law. farm west of Nokomis. There are two Barger of He is a member of Nokomis A. F. i& A. M. grandchildren: Iola Opperman 456 and of the Rotary Club in Hillsboro. He Decatur and Claralena Opperman Nowatka also has taken an active part in the develop- of Dayton, O. ment of both Nokomis and Hillsboro. Mr. Walton's death occured in July, 1933, In 1916 Mr. Vandever was married to at the age of seventy-three. Mrs. Walton Miss Nora Bolding of Nokomis, and to them died on Julv 12, 1928, aged seventy-eight. were born three children: Ralph A., Lester * * * * J. and Mrs. Harry Hoff. They are grand- WEAKLEY FAMILY parents of nine children. J. C. Weakley was married to Miss Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Vandever are mem- Carrie Cottingham on June 8, 1884, at Hills- bers of St. Mark's Lutheran church in Noko- boro. He had come to Nokomis in 1883, mis and Mr. and Mrs. Lester K. Vandever working as a tinner. Later he added a stock are members of St. Paul's Lutheran church of hardware to his place on W. State St. in Hillsboro. After his retirement Mr. and Mrs. • * * * Weakley lived at their home, corner State in death only J. L. WALCHER FAMILY and Oak St. She preceded him four: J. L. Walcher has practiced Veterinary a few months. Their family numbered Medicine in Nokomis since 1909. He is a Harry, who died in 1895; Marguerite, who graduate of the Chicago Veterinary College, passed away in 1922; Emory, who married wife and his wife is the former Miss Lucile New- Catherine Hoehn; and Ray L. whose ton. was Hazel Kuhle. There are four grand- Dr. Walcher has been affiliated with children: Ronald Rabold, Robert Rabold, Nokomis Building Association for twenty Margaret and Helen Rabold. There are three Ra- years, and is now president of that Associa- great grandchildren: Kelsey and Rodger tion. bold and Carl Willenbrock. The Walchers have one son, Dr. Dwain, * * * ¥ who was graduated from the University of WEAVER FAMILY Chicago in 1940. He spent five years at Yale The subject of this sketch, Alson F. University. At present he is on the staff at Weaver, was born in Madison Co. in 1838. Indiana Medical Center, Indianapolis, Ind. After completing the courses of study at * * * * Edwardsville, he entered the Wesleyan Uni- WALTON FAMILY versity of Delaware, O., graduating in 1861. Mrs. Nancy Walton came into the Noko- In August, 1862, he enlisted as a private mis community in 1862, bringing her twin in the 117th Regiment Illinois Volunteer In- children, Ned and Nellie. They lived on a fantry and was at once moved up to Ser- farm southeast of Nokomis. When Ned grew geant. His company served in the south- to manhood, he took over the farm, and west. He was with Bank's Expedition up Nellie married Mr. Arch Bussong and moved Red River, where they were under fire cons- to save to St. Jacobs, 111. tantly. This and other battles helped In 1887 Ned was married to Miss Ella Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana for the —57- Union. He was mustered out at Springfield, and was wide and favorably known. To Antje." 111., in 1865. many she was known as "Tante This In 1866 he was married to Miss Martha firm was incorporated in 1907 as "The J. A. Dunn at Zanesville, Ohio. Of their fam- Woltmann Co." and continued in business ily of eight, six lived to adulthood: Lora, until 1952 when the corporation was dis- Winnie, Dunn, Hettie, Earl, and Harry. Only solved after over seventy years in business three of these are now living, Dunn, Earl and in Nokomis. Mr. Woltmann passed away in Hettie. 1941 and Mrs. Woltman in 1938. Mr. Wolt- Mr. and Mrs. Weaver lived on their mann was a stockholder and director of the farms for some time, first in Madison Co. old Nokomis National Bank, Mayor of the and then Montgomery Co. near Nokomis. In city for several terms, member of the City 1880 Mr. Weaver moved into town and open- Council for years, member of the Nokomis ed a general store on West Main Street using Public School Board, and of the Trinity the ground floor. The second floor was Lutheran Church, of which he was one of the known as Weaver's Opera House. Later he founders. A good man, a faithful, honest gave up this venture and embarked in the citizen, and a true friend. insurance business, which occupied his time * * * * until his retirement. YACKLE FAMILIES He held many positions of trust: mem- Frank and Tony Yackle came with their of the of Directors of the ber Board Nokomis parents to America in 1865 from Baden, Ger- National Bank, member of the School Board many, their native country, when the boys for eighteen years, Supervisor, Township were very young. They grew up and atten- Town Clerk and Highway Commissioner. ded school in Hillsboro, 111., where Frank be- He was also a member of the A. F. A. M. & came a cobbler and shoe merchant, and Tony Lodge No. 456, and, too, a member of the became a blacksmith. Frank married Kath- G. A. R. Post No. 236 of which he was com- erine Huber, and Tony married Lena Lud- mander for many years. deke. In 1889 Tony and his family moved to On one of his farms sixty acres lying Nokomis where he entered the employ of the city limits within he built a beautiful F. J. Pannwitt as a blacksmith and later which is home now the Memorial Park owned his own shop on E. Front St. He died House. The High School too is built on these in 1912. His widow and daughter live in No- acres and the Memorial Park occupies much komis where Stella taught in the public of this place. schools for many years. Frank and his fam- The marked characteristics of Mr. and ily came to Nokomis in 1891 and he opened Mrs. Weaver their kindness were and gener- a shoe shop where he sold and repaired shoes osity to those less fortunate than themselves. until a short time before his death in 1945. Mrs. Weaver passed away March 22, 1911, He served as a commissioner and mayor of and Mr. Weaver on June 5, 1924. Nokomis. Mrs. Frank Yackle passed away * * * * in 1937. Their son Carl, a retired mail clerk, THE JOHN WOLTMANN FAMILY resides in Mattoon; the older daughter, Mr. John Woltmann came with his Florence Thoma, lives in Watertown, Wis- parents from Germany in June, 1868. He was consin; the younger daughter, Viola Ramsey, married to Miss Minnie Nantkes in 1885. lives in Moline, 111. They were the parents of five children: Arnold, Jesse, Louis, Carl, and Lillian. His * * * * first venture in business was in companv 'Garrelt Brakenhoff bought an interest with G. Eekhoff in 1882. This store was at in a store in Nokomis. The new firm will be the corner of State and Pine Streets. Woltmann & Brakenhoff." 1881 Mr. Eekhoff left the stare later, moving to Iowa, and Garrelt Brakenhoff became the "Hon. John Carstens left for Springfield new partner. Mr. Woltmann's sister, Mrs. for the convening of the State Legislature - Antje Eekhoff, was an assistant in the store Jan., 1889."

58 JOHN PIER, SR.

PIER FAMILY PIER COAL CO. 1895 - 1956

Mr. John Pier, Sr. was the son of Joe In 1895 Mr. John Pier, Sr. opened a and Mary Hoppe Pier who came to Nokomis place of business as a retailer and shipper of from Mascoutah in 1880. His wife was the hay: in 1903 he bought the Gardner Stokes daughter of Francis and Mary Gosner Beeler. Coal business and added a stock of brick and

She was born in Greenville, 111., and came to tile. He purchased the Bentz Elevator in Nokomis in 1869. 1906 which he sold later to Henry J. Nobbe Mr. Pier was born in 1865 at Damains- in 1911. For a time he bought and shipped ville, 111., and came with his parents to a pears and apples with the Simon Lerner farm near Nokomis. He was employed for Com. Co. a time as a carpenter in St. Louis. He was Mr. Pier was a civic minded man, build- married to Miss Mary Beeler in 1888 and ing many homes for sale or rent. He has they lived on a farm until 1903 when they operated the coal business at the present lo- moved into Nokomis. He passed away in cation for 46 years, the oldest firm in Noko- 1936 and Mrs. Pier in 1955. Their family mis today. It is conducted by John, Jr., Miss numbered four: Charles, John, Jr., Emma, Emma, and Frank and is known as The Pier and Frank. Coal Co. Their success may well be attri- Charles, now deceased, married Miss buted to careful attention to business and to Lula Barker in 1911. Their children are reliability. Mildred, Charles, Jr., Paul D. and Ralph now Mr. Pier was a member of the City deceased. John, Jr. married Miss Berniece Council at the time the first pavements were Godown in 1917. They have no family. laid, and for a number of terms he was Frank married Miss Helen Charnisky in 1937. Alderman for Wards No. 2 and 3. They have no children. Miss Emma lives Frank and John, Jr., are members of the with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pier. There are Nokomis Fire Department and of the Ameri- several great grand children: Charles R. can Legion. John served in World War I Pier, Dawn Starr Pier, Richard, Micheal, and and Frank in World War II. Miss Emma be- Sandia Lou Girard. Sandia Girard and longs to the American Legion Auxiliary and Dawn Starr Pier are not now living. There to the Business and Professional Woman's is a great great grandson, Kessler Joe Pier. Club. The building, which burned on the Pier Company's present location, was known as Culp's Coffin and Wagon Factory.

-59- THE VALLEY OF THE MOON

Centennial Pageant

Committee Under the auspices of the Nokomis Centennial

General Manager, Scenes and Action — LaRue Hugener

Narration — Anita Stanley

Welcome:

By the Princess and her Indian maidens.

Prologue: VOICE OF THE MIGHTY WEST WIND

By the narrator alone.

Scene One: THIS IS THE VALLEY

This scene depicts the land which is now our town as it was in the 1830's.

Scene Two: THE FIRST SETTLERS

This scene pictures the arrival of the first settlers.

Scene Three: AUDUBON 1836

This scene introduces Anasa Berry by whom the town was named.

Scene Four: DANCING—THE DREAM OF THE ILLINOKOS

This scene portrays the mythical tribe to whom Nokomis belonged.

Scene Five: TOGETHER IN FAITH

This scene delineates the Sabbath and the first wedding in the valley.

Scene Six: DANCING—OAK GROVE

This scene pictures a social gathering at the first school house.

Scene Seven: COMING OF THE IRON HORSE

This scene depicts the completion of the railroad through the valley and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln.

Scene Eight: SO WE TOOK THE NAME NOKOMIS

This scene shows the members of the town council gathered in the city park for their meeting at which the town becomes incorporated and officially adopts the name Nokomis. —60— Scene Nine: FOR FREEDOM'S CAUSE

This scene shows the effect of the Civil War on the town. Also the sympathetic heart of its citizens toward an oppressed people. This features negro spirituals.

Scene Ten: DANCING— SATURDAY NIGHT

This scene pictures the city park in the gay 90's. It features a band concert and The Hesi- tation Waltz.

Scene Eleven: TURNING OF THE CENTURY

This scene describes the turn of the century. It introduces various industries and the excitement caused by the first automobile.

Scene Twelve: DANCING—BLACK ROCK SURFACED

This scene delineates the boom to Nokomis with the coming of the coal mines. It intro- duces the people of many nationalities who now make up the town and features some of their folk dances.

Scene Thirteen: THESE ARE OUR CHILDREN

This scene portrays the various types of professional people produced by the hetero- geneous Illinokos. It features baseball.

Scene Fourteen: OVER THERE

This scene shows the effect of World War I on the Nokomis Community. It features songs of that era.

Scene Fifteen: DANCING— CRESTING THE WAVE

This scene portrays Nokomis at its most prosperous best. It features entertainment as we knew it at the city park during the roaring 20's.

Scene Sixteen: THE SAD SAD DAYS

This scene depicts the depression. The struggle of the town for survival. World War II. armed forces and a salute is fired in Tribute is paid to all men and women who served in the honor of those who gave their lives for the cause of freedom.

Scene Seventeen: HOPE OF SURVIVAL

industries. It features roller skating. This scene tells of post war prosperity. It tells of new

Scene Eighteen: THE STAFF OF LIFE features the TRAIL This scene pays tribute to the farmers of the community and RIDERS.

Epilogue: DANCING—

This brings in the entire cast and features the Princess. —61— IN LOVING MEMORY OF

JOSEPH WM. WILD, (march 6, 1856-June 10, 1924)

IDA OHLMAN WILD, (May 9, 1865-July 29, 1952)

IONE ELIZABETH WILD, (Feb. 25, 1890-Sept. 16, 1954)

— OLIVIA WILD McMANUS BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL NOKOMIS

"Personal success, business success, built upon materialism alone, are empty shells concealing disappointment, saddened lives.

Cast your bread upon the waters and it will come back in abundance." GEORGE ROBERT WHITE Christmas Parade Sponsored By Nokomis Chamber of Commerc

NOKOMIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Among the benefits resulting have been cooperation of the merchants and the The Nokomis Chamber of Commerce, a fine farmers in joining in Saturday evening formerly known as the Nokomis Merchants' entertainments, picnics, annual Farmers Association was organized on June 19, 1924. Institute meetings, etc. The first officers of the Association were were also active in behalf of the Edwin Pannwitt, president; Alvin Henkel, They coal mining industry, in organizing the new secretary; and George Schaper, treasurer. bringing in various factories which Previously, the merchants had organized bank, created new jobs, purchasing a Memorial under various names, only to fail, but the for years sponsoring an annual organization in 1924, succeeding the Nokomis Park, and picnic. Booster Club, served in the capacity of a Farm Bureau-Merchants subscribed to stock in Nokomis Chamber of Commerce until the name was They to furnish capital to estab- changed officially in May, 1952. New Industries During the years this organization has lish new industries. worked for the benefit of the community and Present officers are Howard Bell, presi- has been active in supporting all projects dent; Fred Kettelkamp, vice president; Leslie beneficial to the people of Nokomis and its Sperry, treasurer; and George Sale, secre- farming territory. tary.

"Nokomis Nat'l Bank received from "New sidewalk leading to the cemetery U. S. mint by express 1,000 silver dollars of completed." May, 1880. 1879 vintage."

"Since our night police has been dis- 'Street sprinkler on the job." June, charged the tramp trampeth to the calaboose 1880. and retireth early." March, 1879. -64— ANN'S FASHION SHOPPE Miss Ann Hueschen will celebrate being in business in Nokomis 27 years this fall. With only a couple hundred dollars, Ann started a Millinery and Novelty Shop where the Nokomis Bakery is now located. Mrs. Wm. Blaeuer of Litchfield had the back as a beauty shop and Miss Hueschen used the front for her business. This arrangement Howard was started Oct. 29, 1929. The following March, Mrs. Blaeuer sold her interest to Bell Ann's sister, Mrs. Luella Buechsenschuetz who operated the beauty shop until June, 1934, when she quit business. In 1936 Miss Hueschen moved to the Kerr Building, where the V. F. W. is located; here Ann did business for 10 years; then she moved to her own building and the business name was changed to ANN'S FASHION BELL'S JEWELRY SHOPPE. Mr. and Mrs. Howard D. Bell came to In 1945 Miss Hueschen purchased the Nokomis from Charleston, 111., ten years ago, building that is now used for her store from when Mr. Bell opened one of the most com- Mrs. Anna Shannon. These lots, 11 & 12, blk. plete jewelry stores in Central Illinois. 32, were laid out over 120 years ago and Mr. Bell is a graduate gemologist and is originally sold for $50.00. Ann remodeled an authority on diamonds. Since coming to the store and the apartment above where she Nokomis, Howard has taken a very active lives. part in all civic affairs. At present, he heads From the modest beginning in 1929, the Nokomis Chamber of Commerce. Ann went through the depression of three * * * * bank failures in Nokomis, building the busi- JOE DUEZ SHOE REPAIR SHOP ness, such as she is enjoying today, by hand- Joe Duez Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph ling nationally advertised merchandise. Her Duez, Sr., natives of Belgium, was born in motto is "Exclusive but not Expensive." Mrs. Patton, Penn.; he worked in the coal mines Ann Kapilla and Mrs. Alma Pereboom assist from 1917 - 21 before learning the shoe her in the store and Joann Williams on Sat- repair trade from his brother. He in turn urdays. taught another brother while in a shop in Miss Hueschen is the daughter of the Pana. late Mr. and Mrs. Dietrich Hueschen, pio- In 1944 Mr. Duez bought his present neers of this community. Ann has always location from Ed. Wilson, who had a barber been active in church work, having been shop there. He lives in Witt and commutes organist at Trinity Lutheran Chuch for 25 to Nokomis each day. This year, along with years and belonging to the Ladies' Aid and the repair work, he has put in a line of men's The Altar Guild. Miss Hueschen is a char- and boys' dress and work shoes. ter member of the Nokomis B. & P. W. and • * * * the Chamber of Commerce. She is always "The Nokomis Coal Mining Conmpany ready to help in any civic enterprise that licensed by the Secretary of State - Dec, might come up for the benefit of the 1887 D. H. Zepp, Geo. Schaper, N. Singer, community. Alt' Griffin, E. G. Greenman, and L. M. * * * * Hartsock were promoters." City directory February, 1889 - Noko- "Social Club issued 100 invitations to a mis had 75 business firms; 1,100 population. grand ball at the Armory Hall." 1 1878)

-65- BERNS BROS. CONCRETE PRODUCTS engine, that had been used over 40 years left standing The Berns Bros. Concrete Products is before, was pulled out and was one of the oldest businesses in our commun- at the far end of the lot. latest electronic block and ity, as Frank N. Berns, cousin of Nick Berns, In 1955 the ma- father of the Berns brothers, bought the lots tile making equipment was added. This capacity of producing more than on which the business is located today, back chine has a there in 1911, and the following year started the 500 units per hour. At date of purchase this kind in block and tile business. were only 17 other machines of Monroe and Frank J. Berns, after getting the United States and Canada. out of Service, bought this business in Mar., This business has grown and expanded 1946. Both boys had been in the Army, Mon- until at present the boys deal in everything roe being released in Sept., 1945, and Frank that is made of concrete, such as, drain tile. the following January. septic tanks, building blocks, and sand, grav- In 1950 the brothers expanded their bus- el and cement. The business takes in a radius iness, purchasing an automatic block ma- of more than 75 miles. Berns brothers' first chine; this was a big improvement as it turns big block construction was the L. E. Nantkes out 180 blocks an hour. In the fall of 1951 building on N. Spruce in Nokomis in 1950. and the spring of '52, Monroe and Frank Monroe was born on a farm near Oconee, again decided to become more modern and but came at the early age of six months, added a Redi-mix plant. This machine mixes with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Berns, the concrete at their place of business, and when they moved to a farm a mile and a half it is then trucked to the place where it is south of Nokomis. Here was the birthplace used. of his brother, Frank. Monroe married Miss The summer of 1953 they again took a Merle Wittnam of this farming community step forward in progress by replacing their and they are the parents of one daughter, old building with a modern block, fireproof Eileen. Frank married Miss Pauline Kirk- building which measures 60 x 70 ft. When patrick, and they have two children: daugh- the Berns brothers remodeled, an old steam ter, Janet Sue, and son, Bobbie Joe. * * * * "I. O. O. F. & Masonic Halls damaged by "Six-button white kid gloves for $1.00." cyclone, May, 1880." "Raspberry Festival at Weaver's Hall, 'Pay Car - January, 1881." June 15, 1880 - 25c admission." —66— Mar. 15. 1956, both at the age of 88. Their one daughter, Genevieve, with her husband, Mr. Coen, resides in Nokomis. • * * • QUALITY CLEANERS Henry J. The history of the Quality Dry Cleaners : Bender dates back to the early 20s. when Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Powley began this business where the Mini Candy Factory is now local ed. In w 1926 R. P. Keele bought the business from ^ the Powleys, and his brother, Roy E. Keele, took over the management for him. George employed by the HENRY J. BENDER Moeller. who had been Powleys. continued to work with Roy Keele Henry J. Bender, in business in Noko- until 1937. when he went into business for mis 65 years, was born in St. Louis, Mo., himself. In 1931, Harold Altom was employ- Feb. 4, 1864; he came to Nokomis in 1875 ed and has been with the firm for the past 25 with his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank years. Mrs. Altom joined the firm in 1938 C. Bender who started a bakery and restau- and is also active in the business to date. rant in a frame building where Ann's Fashion George Hill became another member of -'the Shoppe is now located. He assisted his father family" in 1932. He operates his own truck in business for several years. give delivery service to an area of approx- In 1888 Mr. Bender and the late John to imately 20 miles radius. Roy Keele's two Hukill opened a grocery and dry goods store. sons, Carl and Jimmie, both having grown up A year later he became manager of the Plan- around the dry cleaning business, worked ters Hay Compress Co., which he held for part time during their high school years, Carl several years. in 1940 and Jimmie in 1944. Upon Mr. Bender then formed partnership beginning graduating they both entered the Service, with the late Nick Bentz in the elevator and Carl into the Navy and Jimmie into the grain business: after four years he purchased Coast Guard. Mr. Bentz's interest and continued to operate In 1927 Mr. Keele started selling and alone until 1906 when he sold the elevator to servicing radios. As time progressed ami the late H. J. Nobbe. television came into the picture, he added i In 1906 Mr. Bender opened a coal yard, new subject to his field of interest. He be- in the same location, and confined his busi- gan selling and servicing television in 1950. ness to retailing coal exclusively until he sold The Day-Upstone building was bought the business in 1948 to the Nokomis Coal Co. 1945 from the Day estate and the business and retired from active business. His office, in was moved to that building, the present lo- both for elevator and coal business, was cation. originally the first railroad depot in Nokomis. February 1, 1956, Roy Keele and his two H. J. Bender was a director of the Noko- sons, Carl and Jim, bought the dry cleaning mis National Bank for 10 years, and a direc- establishment from R. P. Keele and now tor of the Nokomis Building and Loan operate it in conjunction with the Television Association the same number of years, serv- Sales and Service which Roy Keele started ing as president four years. He retired due in 1950. They have the agencies for RCA to failing health. and Sylvania Television and Radios Mr. Bender was an active member of St. Victor and also operate a complete service depart- Louis Catholic Church and a charter member ment. of the Knights of Columbus Council 2189. In 1893 Mr. Bender and Miss Mollie * * * * Ladies' Cornet band gave one Kroeger were united in marriage and their "Nokomis their popular balls Wednesday, January entire married life was spent in Nokomis of 19, 1887." until his death June 1, 1952, and her death, -67— Congratulations

T0N0K0MIS0NHER

Centennial Anniversary

Were proud to have played a part in the city's furnishing dependable Low Cost Elec- Your Servant progress, harf of this Century. of the Centurv. tricity for nearly

MORE POWER TO AND FOR YOU!

Reddy is ready now—with plenty

Reddy will keep AHEAD for the future

Central Illinois Public Service Company

Low Cost Essential Service to Industry, Business, Farm and Home.

JOHNSON AUTO CO. komis and started in the garage business, with his brother, Milo. Their trade name The Johnson Auto Co. is one of the oldest was Johnson Bros., and they were first lo- businesses in Nokomis, being owned and cated in the Kerr Bldg. At this time they operated by Fred B. Johnson and son, Mer- secured their first new car franchise, the vin. Fred B. Johnson was born on a farm Buick. The first Buick sold by this firm was north of Mt. Olive, April 17, 1896. After go- to Thomas Wolters. It was a 5 passenger ing through country schools and working on touring car which sold for two thousand the farm for several years, he attended The dollars. Berry Auto School in St. Louis. After June, 1920, the brothers purchased and graduating, Fred returned to Mt. Olive and moved to the garage building still housing in rapid succession was a taxi-cab driver, the Johnson Auto Co. Six years later they worker on Wabash railroad, and garage em- secured the fast growing small car, the ployee of the Brubaker Auto Co., at Staunton. Chevrolet franchise. Oct. 1, 1938, Milo sold In 1916 Fred came to Nokomis and work- his half interest, and Fred B. operated as an for six ed on Henry Wolters' farm months. individual until Jan., 1947, when his son, Then he was employed in the garage operat- Mervin, purchased half interest. This is the ed by Ray W. Snedeker and owned by A. O. status of the Johnson Auto Co. today. Kettelkamp. There are 19 employees working for the On January 25, 1918, Fred married Miss Johnson Auto Co. Elmer Wilson, Fred R. Christina Moos, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kleinik, and Julius Saatkamp have been with Wm. Moos, pioneers of Nokomis community. the Johnson Co. since the beginning. They have two children, Mervin E. and Mr. Johnson is appreciative of the No- Adeline Richardson. Fred served his coun- komis community for supporting this thriv- in I try World War and Mervin saw action ing enterprise from its humble beginning. in" World War II. He has always used the slogan: "When Fred B. liked this community, and, after Betters Cars Are Built - Buick Will Build the Armistice in 1919, he came back to No- Them." Mr. Ronchetti married Miss Josephine Gaudino of Benld and they are the parents of a son, Frank (previously mentioned), and a daughter, Madeline, wife of Kenneth Buel. Mr. Buel formerly lived in Nokomis, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Buel. For the past 30 Felix years he has been assistant manager of the Union Electric Co. in Collinsville. a Ronchetti For number of years Mrs. Buel taught English at the local high school. * * * * THE CANDY KITCHEN The Candy Kitchen had its beginning in Nokomis when Geo. and Phillip Koucheveris RONCHETTI AGENCY and Geo. Ellis opened this popular place, on the corner of S. Pine and W. State, in April, Felix Ronchetti, one of our oldest 1919. Two years later, Mr. Ellis sold his in- businessmen, has been in the beer distribu- terest to the brothers. In May, 1934, Joe ting business for 50 years, starting in Viola and Jeno Collebrusco bought the in- Benld back in 1906, with a horse and "Wagon. terest of the Koucheveris brothers, who had, In 1916 he came to Nokomis and has con- in the meantime, purchased a candy kitchen tinued this business ever since. His brother, in Taylorville. John, was in partnership with him until he In 1938 Mr. Viola and Mr. Collebrusco moved to South Bend, Ind., and later passed purchased the building next to the theatre, away. from the Snell estate; ten years later, they In the 20's when the country was on remodeled the building making it one of the prohibition, Mr. Ronchetti continued the nicest looking places on State Street, and distribution of soft drinks. Anheuser Busch moved into it from the old stand which had even handled tea and coffee. been known as the Candy Kitchen for 29 Ten years ago his son, Frank, was dis- years. They have since put in air condition- charged from Service and went into ing, making it more pleasant for their cus- partnership with his dad. Frank lives in tomers. The Candy Kitchen makes home Mattoon and handles the east part of the made ice cream, candy, and caramel apples; state. He is in the Army Reserves and com- they also sell light accessories. missioned a Lieutenant Colonel. Joe and his sister, Mary (Viola) Colle- The Ronchetti Distributing Co. operates brusco, started working in the Candy Kitch- the territory from Litchfield east to the en from the beginning, in 1919. Jeno, of Tay- Indiana line and has the distributing rights lorville, bought interest in the Candy Kitch- for the famous Budweiser and fast growing en in 1928, and Lucille (Engelman) Viola popular Busch Bavarian Beers; the R. & R. has been connected with the firm since her Distributing Co.. Inc. has the distributing- marriage to Joe, April 29, 1934. agency for Stag and G. B. Beers of St. Louis. Joe and Lucille Viola are the parents of The last mentioned is in Paris, 111. From a a daughter, Sherrie Lynn, and Jeno and horse and wagon, Mr. Ronchetti has come a Mary Collebrusco are the parents of a daugh- long way until now he operates 5 branches. ter, Jean Ann. Mr. Ronchetti also branched out into The Violas and Collebruscos have al- other business. In 1932 he started the Felix ways been civic minded citizens, playing Ronchetti Insurance Co. and deals in real leading rolls, in all activities that have been surrounding estate. In fact, he is one of the larger proper- beneficial to Nokomis and the years ty holders in Nokomis. Mrs. Hugh Keller is community. For the past thirty-five office manager and his brother-in-law, John their names have been etched in making The Jones, operates the trucks. Century of Progress in Nokomis. HIRSCH ANNIVERSARY Hatchery, Inc.. which has been run success- ever since. The Twenty-Sixth Anniversary of the fullv under the same management founding of P. N. Hirsch & Company, whose • * * * local department store is located at 100 West NOKOMIS BOWLING LANES State Street, will be celebrated beginning 121 S. Spruce St. this year with a special sales event in May. Bowling, the Nation's No 1 recreation, The Hirsch organization now operates a was first operated at the above location in total of 54 stores in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Nokomis some 30 years ago by Jeff Chlebus, Alabama and Arkansas and recently ac- who later sold to Milo J. Johnson. quired their own general office and ware- A year ago Howell C. Bricker leased house building in St. Louis, Mo. the alleys from Armand Tosetti. He has suc- The company started in business in 1930 cessfully managed this sport through the at Jonesboro, 111. In 1931 their first store past season by putting in full time, thus was moved to Anna, Illinois, and shortly giving the patrons the advantage of proper thereafter a second store was opened in supervision. Metropolis, Illinois. The steady, if not spec- There have been 8 men's teams tacular, growth and expansion of the chain scheduled for Monday, Tuesday and Thurs- of P. N. Hirsch & Company stores in the day nights and 8 women's teams on Wednes- twenty-six years is considered outstanding day with four teams on Friday night; this in the retail merchandising field. schedule left Saturday and Sunday open for Credit for its progress is given by the inter-city bowling. The Nokomis Bowling Hirsch Company to public acceptance of the Lanes, under the management of Mr. policy it has consistently followed. That is Bricker, furnish a clean recreation for the "to offer the best possible quality merchan- entire family. dise at the lowest possible price and to guar- antee complete customer satisfaction through Howell, the son of the late U. S. was a liberal exchange and refund policy." Bricker and Hattie Bricker of Nokomis, born at Lovington, 111., and moved, with his The local P. N. Hirsch & Company store Nokomis about 50 years ago was acquired by the company in 1950 from parents, to where he worked in the local mines until Albert Smith and is managed by Norman their closing. He married Miss Emily Morri- Bean. He and his family live in Nokomis and son of this city. They are the parents of two have taken an active part in all civic affairs Keith, both of Nokomis. of the community. They and The P. N. sons, Alvin and Hirsch i& Company extend the heartiest * * * * Welcome to all at the Nokomis Centennial KENNEDYS ROLLER RINK celebration. This popular amusement place, just east * * * * of town, is owned by Alvinah and George EDGECOMBE HATCHERY, INC. Kennedy. Good, clean fun is always main- Robert B. and Oliver started up the tained. For the convenience of the cus-

Edgecombe Bros. Hatchery, Sept. 1, 1953, in tomers, a snack bar adds to the popularity. the Woltmann Building, which is a landmark The Kennedys were farmers near Decatur in Nokomis. before coming to Nokomis in 1946. They This business handles a full line of Hon- first purchased a roller rink tent; then the egger feeds, Dr. Salsbury remedies, and following spring the present permanent rink equipment, chicken-houses, brooders, feeders, was constructed. The parking facilities are etc. They are the authorized Honegger As- excellent for crowds. sociate Hatchery Dealers for this community. Mrs. Kennedy was one of eight chil- Edgecombe Brothers pride themselves on dren of Rev. and Mrs. Bechtel of Decatur. getting breeding stock every year and selling The Kennedys have three children: George only FIRST GENERATION chicks. Jr., Gerald, and Janet, wife of Fred Bowers.

July 1, 1954, Robert and Oliver Edge- "For Popular Entertainment - Roller combe incorporated into the Edgecombe Skate".

-70 KELLER'S IMPLEMENT CO. LOUIS E. MARLEY — REAL ESTATE 115 E. Front St. Nokomis, 111. Starting at the art of "crying sales" The Allis Chalmers farm equipment when a young man, Col. Louis E. Marley franchise for this community was taken by graduated in the late thirties as a Real A. W. Collins in 1944. In December, 1952. Estate Broker. His office is located at 108 S. Chuck Johnson and Mr. Collins sold the Spruce St., Nokomis. He has advertised: agency to Hugh Keller, and the firm is now- "IF IT'S ON EARTH, I CAN SELL IT." known as the Keller Implement Co. Mr. Marley represents the Northwestern Mr. Keller, a son of the large familj of Ins. Co. of Peoria, The Prudential, and The Mr. and Mrs. Leo H. Keller, Sr., was born on Franklin Insurance Companies out of Spring- his father's farm about 3 1 -, miles west of field, in regard to farm loans - for the con- Nokomis. venience of his many customers. Hugh has the advantage of knowing the Louis, the son of Mrs. Ed Marley (his farmers' machinery needs from his practical father having passed away a number of experience gained on the farm and from his years ago), was born on the Marley Home- work with an implement dealer before buy- stead, 4 miles southeast of town, in Audubon ing his own business. Farmers of this area Twp. on April 26, 1903. Mr. Marley married are familiar with the Allis Chalmers equip- Miss Catherine Kelley, well known register- ment and the friendly and courteous service ed nurse of Montgomery Co. At present she extended to them at the Keller Implement helps in the office. Co. Mr. and Mrs. Marley express their ap- Mr. Keller married Miss Josephine preciation for the courteous treatment they daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Lenzi, Lenzi, have received since being in business here. Sr., of Nokomis. She has employment with • * * • the Ronchetti Insurance Co. * * * * McDAVID MOTOR, INC. MELIN CHARNISKY The history of McDavid Motor, Inc. in 1917, when the Mc- INSURANCE AGENCY Nokomis dates back to David cousins of Hillsboro bought the garage Melin-Charnisky Insurance Agency, The business from D. E. Leach. This firm was Spruce St., was started Jan. 2, 1956, 111 S. located where the Kettelkamp Implement when these gentlemen bought the insurance Co. is now located. The McDavid Motor Co. business from Luther Battles. was owned by C. L., E. T., and J. K. Mc- reliable agency handles a complete This David. A. B. McDavid was the first general Casualty, Bonds, Life, line of Fire, Auto, manager. Later Chas. A. Newport managed Accident policies. The office and Health and the firm. is managed by Mrs. Janice Charnisky. In 1922 they built at the present location Nels Melin was born in Middleton, 111., and R. L. Kessinger managed the business coming to Nokomis with his parents in 1909. until 1932 when G. D. Robbins became the He married Miss Ethel Wilson of Irving and manager until his untimely death in Aug., has a son, Julbert. and a daughter, Brenda. 1953. Michael Charnisky is the son of Mr. and In 1937 the business was incorporated Mrs. Mike Charnisky of Coalton, married as The McDavid Motor, Inc. G. D. Robbins Miss Janice McConiga of Nokomis. They and W. H. Bauer were stock holders. Mar., are the parents of a daughter, Jan Michelle. 1953, Geo. V. Spengel, Carl Wright and Carl Both are Navy men, Melin seeing action Wunderlich bought shares in the firm. in World War I and Charnisky in World War city A body shop was built in 1952 ami last II. Nels is a rural carrier and Mike a "Big M" Mercury franchise was mail-carrier of the local Post Office. They fall the added. The new attractive colored cars of are very appreciative of the fine response will never be so popular as the old they have received in so short a time in today Model T., when we had such songs written business, and extend a hearty "Welcome" " as "Get Out and Get Under to the Nokomis Centennial. KROGER STORE Fern Wolters, who has been with the Hills- The Nokomis Kroger Store, on the boro Greenhouse for years. She excels in corner of W. State and Pine Streets, was cross pollination. The "mums" that are started in 1922, at the same location that now grown in Hillsboro are of the excellent houses the store. At that time they shared variety comparable only to those seen in St. the east half with the C. I. P. S. Company. Shaw's Garden, Louis. More than fifty years ago, the Nokomis Post In 1948 Mrs. Elliott sold the Nokomis Office was located in the east room of the Flower Shop to Mr. and Mrs. Roy Dunn. building. When Mr. Dunn died in 1952, the interest The first manager was Wesley Hardy. was sold to William Sattgast and his son-in- He was there only a short time until Otto law, Howard Whitten of Hillsboro, the pre- Johnson became the store manager. Mr. sent owners. Johnson served in this capacity until Jan- Mrs. Kenneth Smalley was the firBt uary 4, 1941, putting in almost twenty years manager of the Flower Shop until July, 1949, of service. He owns the building. when Mrs. Lois Peters took over, assisted by Victor Micklautz, the present manager, the able help of Mrs. Amber Hill. In July, started working for Kroger's in 1927 when 1954, Mrs. Peters was forced to quit due to still going to high school. In 1931 he became ill health. Mrs. Henry Stanley is the pre- a regular clerk and ten years later, the store sent manager. manager. The Nokomis Flower Shop belongs to Delivery Service for the The Kroger Store is a big organization, the Telegraph con- having at present in the Nokomis store, venience of out-of-town customers. eleven employees, each well suited for his or * * * * her position. This makes it one of the finer LAYERS STORE stores of the community. In 1939 the Kroger The building and business of the present Co. installed a self service system which was Layer's Store were built and started by Day the first of its kind in the community. Now and Upstone. In 1876 Mr. George Schaper many grocery stores have this "help your- started working for Day and Upstone and in self" plan. 1895 he bought the business. Mr. Schaper, Victor Micklautz married Miss Alice along with his two sons, Fred and Edward, Middleton of Nokomis in 1936 and they ran the store until his death in 1945. In 1946 have two children: a son, Victor Lynn, a the store was sold to Glenn E. Johnson who junior at the local high school and a operated it until August 1, 1953, when he daughter, Nancy, in grade school. sold out to Paul Layer.

Mr. and Mrs. Micklautz and family are The store is now called Layer's Store active members in the St. Mark's Lutheran and is run by Paul and Marilyn Layer. Mrs. Church. He is a member of the Nokomis Unit Layer was formerly Marilyn Bauman, daugh- School Board, a member of the Chamber of ter of Mr and Mrs. Fred Bauman; she for- Commerce, and of the Nokomis Lions Club. merly worked at the Rexall Drug Store. She This year, he received a merit of distinction and Paul were married on Sunday, Decem- from the Kroger Co., for being the outstand- ber 27, 1953. ing civic minded manager of this district. They have Sherwin-Williams paint in Vic is always willing to give a hand in all the store along with gifts and sundries. They affairs that are for the betterment of Noko- also have cameras and camera supplies. mis and surrounding trading area. Paul has lately added Radio and Tele- * * * * vision Service and Repair to the store and NOKOMIS FLOWER SHOP hopes to have well known Television sets to September 11, 1946, Ruby and Jose- sell. phine Elliott of Hillsboro opened the Noko- You are always welcome at Layer's mis Flower Shop, where the Candy Kitchen Store, 104 W. State Street or call them for is now located. The place was managed by delivery - phone 171. —75 —

KEMPTON REXALL DRUGS Jan.. 1925. A. J. Schroeder became a 1891 — 1956 partner of the firm and in Nov. of the same year Mr. Kempton passed away, leaving the A. J. Schrocder—Pharmacists J. E. Siegrist care of his widow to Mr. Schroeder and his The Kempton Rexall Drug Store had its wife, who took care of her every need, and beginning in 1891, under the firm name of the operation of the drug store as a partner- Preston & Kempton, in the now K. & K. ship until her death. Meat Market Bldg., 100 E. State St. Three A. J. Schroeder then assumed complete years later. Mr. Kempton bought out Mr. ownership of the drug firm, now known as Preston's interest and the firm was known the •Kempton Rexall Drugs." The original as the C. H. Kempton Drug Co. In 1888 Mr. name. Kempton, has been maintained from Kempton sold to a Nokomis physician. Dr. P. the beginning until the present. L. Freeland. who evidently moved the store In 1953. J. E. Siegrist was taken in as a to 117-19 W. State, now occupied by Ann partner and manager. W. P. Gilbert has been Hueschen and the Layel-Arnold Insurance with the firm 30 years; Emma Nantkes 24; Agency, which had been built in 1893. J. E. Siegrist 13 years; and Wm. Bowers and After Mr. Kempton sold, he was engaged Jennie Compton, three and two years re- in the poultry business at Morrisonville. 111. spectively. After a short stay, he again purchased a • * * * drug store in La Grange. 111. In 1900 Mr. KELLER S MARKET Kempton returned to Nokomis and bought Keller formerly the Clover The Market I back the drug store from Dr. Freeland. Due Farm Store operated by Bennie Bernardini to the Nokomis Big Fire, the store did bus- until his death Jan., 1954) is now owned and iness on the corner of the alley at 110 E. operated by Mrs. Joy Keller, daughter of Mr. State St. The drug store was then moved to and Mrs. Ray Isbell of Charleston, 111., for- the building now occupied by the Nokomis mer Nokomis residents. Joy married Paul Gas & Electric Co.. owned by Alf Griffin, Keller of this community who farms north later by John Ronchetti. In 1921 the present of Nokomis. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Keller, No- building was purchased, at 108 W. State St., komis H. S. alumni, are the parents of three which had been known as the Russell Mer- children: Kay. Carol Jean, and Paul, Jr. cantile Co. Mrs. Keller features home killed meats In 1918 A. J. Schroeder accepted a po- and a full line of qualitv groceries. sition as company weighman for the Noko- mis West Mine; he and his family moved • * * * here from Mt. Olive. In Dec. of that year he SIDES LAUNDRY a new busi- was offered the position as pharmacist and In 1949 Jim Vancil started the housewife's dream, assistant manager of the Kempton Drug Co. ness in Nokomis, Monday". February. Mr. Schroeder was a true Rexallite "Taking the Blue out of laundry to Mr. and from the founding by Louis K. Liggett, who 1952, Mr. Vancil sold his Mazurier, who, in turn, sold to was his personal friend, more than 50 years Mrs. Tony Sides of Coalton. October 1, 1953. ago. "A. J." realized the neglect of a neces- Homer all their washing sary drug and medicine line in our town. The Sides' Laundry do automatic washers and dryers, From a meager beginning of purchases from and drying by finishing and flat ironing as well Rexall in 1918, and with the cooperation of and they do of all kinds. Any clerks and helpers, a Rexall business in No- as dyeing and tinting fragile is given personal komis and community excels cities with pop- material that is ulation of 50,000 and more. Rexall's slogan. attention. "GOOD HEALTH TO ALL — FROM REX- Mr. Sides is very appreciative of the fine hopes to serve the Nokomis ALL," has been the store's slogan; and for response and for manv years to come. the past 20 years the Nokomis store has been communitv on Rexall's International Honor Roll and • * * • one of the top leaders in purchases in our "A large crowd watched the balloon 1878." state. ascension Noember, —73- TOSETTI'S GROCERY STORE MOELLER'S MEN'S CLOTHING STORE A very popular grocery store, on the This is the history of 118 W. State St., North Side, is owned and operated by Mr. Nokomis, 111. At the present there is on this and Mrs. Primo Tosetti. location a two story brick building that Primo is one of a family of eleven chil- houses the Mollers—George, Violet, Georgie. dren of Mr. and Mrs. Silvio Tosetti. The Many years ago there was a one story family moved to Nokomis when he was a frame structure here occupied by Gus in child, from Ladd, 111. His father worked Weber, who ran a saloon, followed by Cot- the coal mines in Ladd and Nokomis; here ton Brenner and Joe Ernst. The old timers later his he was injured in 1924; four years remember this saloon as badly in need of the wife, Gentile, started a grocery store at repairs where the dogs chased the cats right present location. through without opening the doors. In 1912 in the mines and factories Primo worked this structure was torn down and the present his needed of the cities, but decided mother building was erected by Wells and Brown help in In 1942 he took over the Nokomis. who operated a Men's Furnishings on the store and since that time has made it one of first floor and rented the upstairs for offices. finer stores of community. self the the A The Wells and Brown business prospered for service dairy case and daily delivery are a number of years. When the business was outstanding features. dissolved, the building was rented to Louis Primo married Miss Nita Grimes and Schneider for a general clothing store they have two children. Mr. Tosetti is an followed by A. F. Zwinak. Later it was oc- aggressive young business man and at pres- cupied by Jesse Robertson and son, Kenneth, ent is a member of the Nokomis City as a hardware store. After this business came Council. It is only natural that he is inter- to an end, the building remained vacant for a ested in the Nokomis Centennial celebration number of years. this year. * * * * In 1937 George Moller bought the NOKOMIS IMPLEMENT COMPANY building from Ben Brown and has since been operating a Men's Ready-to-Wear store The Nokomis Implement Company was assisted by his wife, Violet, and son, George, formed in May, 1920, by Theo. H. and Henry who is a sophomore at the University of A. Johnson, who purchased the business Illinois. The Moellers occupy the apartment which was then John Deere from F. J. on the second floor which they call home. Pannwitt. The Johnson Brothers purchased This arrangement has made it especially the International Harvester contract from handy for many frustrated mothers that the Miller Bros, in 1923 who were then op- need a last minute item as Junior is getting erating in the Joe Brenner place which is ready for the Prom. They have made many now the location of the Johnson Auto Used real friends through their business and civic Car Building. efforts and are always behind the boy or Nokomis Implement Co. sold both IH girl who is "in there pitching." and John Deere Equipment for several years before selling the John Deere franchise to * * * * Julius Kettelkamp and since that time this "Hitching posts ordered removed from Company has been the International Har- Main St. and placed around the park." 1881 vester dealer in Nokomis. On February 1, 1948, the Nokomis Imp- "25 million chinch bugs passed over No- lement Co. and the I franchise H were pur- komis going south on Wednesday, July 20, chased by J. E. "Dutch" Anderson and 1887. (who counted them?). Some people George Priddle who are now operating in were grateful as the cloud covered the sun - the same location that the Nokomis Imple- it was a very hot day." ment Co. was formed.

* * * * "Leonard Lease gave $1,000 to Carthage "Maple pest in 1884." College, 1887." -74— BARNSTABLE FEED & HATCHERY Back in 1910 this business was born, when Mr. and Mi Sullivan started handling, in car lots, flour, bran, shorts, oats, and corn in a little

building, 24x30, c i S. Spruce St. In those days people bought flour in the bag of 50 or 100 lbs. or in a barrel. That was when nearly every housewife baked her own bread.

In 1912 young Clar- ence Barnstable started working for the Sullivans as a handyman driving a Dne-horse delivery wagon. This he did for 6 years; business flourished, but young Barney thought he'd try his hand in other fields, so he got a job at Mine No. 10. He worked only a week until the mine caught on fire and that influenced him to go into business for himself; he bought a half interest in the fast growing busi- Purina Makes 50 Millionth Ton Purina Chow. ness. The Sullivan Feed Thanks to the Feeders in This Community for Store. Their Help. In 1922 Roy Schaper bought the other Besides feeds, they have added several half of the Sullivan store and the place was lines of different merchandise consisting of known as Barnstable & Schaper Feed Store. Ralston Purina; Checkerboard feed; Agrico Business flourished, so in 1928 they decided fertilizer, in bags or bulk; rock phosphate; to extend their interest to the hatching of limestone; Salsbury and Purina sanitation chicks, which was fast becoming popular products; and a full line of farmers' agri- with farmers. They started with a 28,000 cultural needs, used in our community. capacity incubator, which has now grown to In 1951 the Barnstables built a modern a capacity of 400,000 and they are hatching grain elevator on their farm located on the not only baby chicks, but turkey poults, Nokomis-Fillmore blacktop road, and are ducklings, and goslings, for which they have buying and selling grain. On this farm is a a market throughout the U.S.A. In 1933 Mr 2 story brick home, where the Barnstables Schaper took over the Pana firm and Mr. have sponsored many community picnics, Barnstable became sole owner of the busi- with the help of local citizens and the Ansar ness in Nokomis, known as Barnstable Feed Temple Shriners' Band of Springfield, of & Hatcheries. Much of the credit for the which Mr. Barnstable is a member. In the success of this firm has been the association past, all profits of the Fourth of July picnic of the faithful employment of Mrs. Nona have been given for the benefit of the Schnell, Phillip Stauder, Darrell Mindrup, crippled children, Shriners' Hospital in St. son Clarence, and others. Louis. DAIRY QUEEN On the farm they raise turkeys, chick- years ago a new, freshly, ens, dairy cattle and hogs, all of which add to About sixteen butterfat and high the management of a well established farm. frozen dairy food, low in Mr. Barnstable married Miss Clara in proteins and minerals, came into exis- can be said with certainty that ice Klamer, of the South Fork community; they tence. It which Dairy Queen is one, satisfies have a son, Clarence, Jr. who married Miss milk, of the consumer. Mr. and Mrs. Martha Martin of Witt. They have a daugh- the taste of — Lakin own such a place "The Cone ter, Barbara Bea. In 1954 Mr. Barnstable Herbert on Top." and son bought the Kerr building, which is with the Curl of Pana, available for a factory. September, 1951, Mr. Hayes, Barney has always been a BOOSTER for opened the first frozen dairy product in No- sold to the Nokomis community; helping to open the komis. June 28, 1952, the store was West Mine, helping to establish The Add-A- the Lakins. The Dairy Queen is a very busy the Phase Co., and helping with the Bank and hot weather spot on Main Street from Ski factory are a few of his worthwhile ef- opening, the middle of March, to the middle forts. Yes, Barney came up "the hard way" of October. and became one of the Nokomis businessmen Herbert is the son of Mrs. John Lakin and a community booster. and the late John Lakin. Mary is the daugh- * ' * * * ter of Mrs. Jachino and the late Joseph DAVIS FUNERAL HOME Jachino. They were married June 11, 1931 The Davis Funeral Home has all modern and have two children: Shirley, who is em- equipment, including an oxygen resuscitator ployed in Springfield by the Sec'y of State, and regulator, along with 24-hour ambulance and Herbie, a freshman in the local high service under the experienced directorship school. of E. E. Davis and his wife, the former Miss The Dairy Queen salutes the Nokomis Ruby Satterfield of Pana. Centennial. This funeral home was established in * * * * 1908 by Sophia and Wm. Dude. After Mr. TOWN PUMP Dora, and her Dude's death, the daughter, An old landmark of Nokomis, the Tam- Nicol, were owners. They husband, Charles men building, at the corner of N. Spruce and sold to Mr. Davis, modernized it and later Front Streets, was rejuvenated in 1946, when Dec, 1945. Jewel and Al Lauris remodeled this ancient graduate of Worsham Mr. Davis is a frame building into a modern tavern known of Mortuary Science of Chicago and College as the Town Pump. Aug. 23, 1950, Mr. Lauris of that city, for worked for Hursen, Inc., passed away. Three years later Mrs. Lauris served with the several years. He also married Louis "Congo" Vercellotti, a native Forces, as 1st. Lieutenant, in World Armed of Coalton. Mrs. Vercellotti is the oldest War II. daughter of Mrs. Mary Russ, Nokomis. The Davises are ably assisted by Mrs. * brother, Rodell Satterfield, who mar- * * * Davis' HOME OIL CO. girl, Miss Kathryn Tosetti. ried a local Nokomis Hillsboro Mr. and Mrs. Davis, with their twins, Phone 281 KE 2-3453 Robert and Barbara, have made Nokomis Oil Co., under the able man- their town and are very happy that they The Home of Carl D. Brooks, has been servic- have chosen our friendly city in which to agement Montgomery County for the past twenty live. ing * * * * years, with TYDOL "Flying A" gasoline and heating oils and VEEDOL, "The World's "Montgomery Co. Fair four days in Sept. most famous Motor Oils" and greases. 1884 in Hillsboro. First day - Old Settlers' Reunion; last day - Sweepstakes." * * * * "Ice prostrated telephone lines in the "Ringling Bros. Circus July 30, 1889." city, Dec, 1878."

-76- FIRST NATIONAL BANK of Nokomis Poll* Parrot NOKOMIS, ILLINOIS Organized and opened for business Sept. 3, 1940. Firsl day total assets $99,806.72. As- FRICKE S SHOE STORE sets at close of business May 21, 1956, $2,762,- Nokomis' only shoe store, established 592.88. June 11, 1949, is operated by Margaret L. and First Board of Directors: L. A. Schrei- Walter C. Fricke. At the time of opening, ber, President, Deceased; O. F. Spengel, they considered several makes of shoes, and Vice-President, Deceased; A. J. Schroeder; chose the brand of Roberts, Johnson & Rand, Wm. Zeifang; Edwin F. Pannwitt. as they felt they could offer the customer Present Board of Directors: L. E. Nant- more value. kes, President; J. J. Viola, Vice-President; Walter C. was born on a farm northwest M. W. Bagley, Cashier; J. J. Collebrusco; of Nokomis, the youngest son of the late Mr. Fred B'. Johnson; A. J. Schroeder; Felix Ron- and Mrs. Gustav C. Fricke. His paternal chetti. grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Christian Fricke, Others who have served on the board moved from Marine, 111., to Montgomery Co., are J. L. Walcher and Ike Smith. in 1867. to a farm 12 miles west of Nokomis. Present Employees: M. W. Bagley, His maternal great-grandparents, Mr. and Cashier; Max L. Moody, Ass't. Cash. & Sec'y. Mrs. Doerr, settled on a Federal Land-Grant to board; Alana E. Dasovich, Teller & Gen. farm, about 13 miles northwest of town, in Bkpr.; Myron K. Schaefer, Bkpr.; Edna C. the Harvel vicinity, in 1854. Walter is a Fournier, Bkpr.; Mildred M. Fearn, Bkpr., nephew of the late Dora S. Kerr, who Louis A. Priess, Custodian. successfully conducted, with her husband, Other employees who have served the the Kerr's Hardware & Variety Store in No- bank: Wm. A. Schneeberg, Cashier, C. B. komis. He was graduated from the Nokomis Davenport, Ass't. Cashier, now deceased, High School with the class of 1926 and ser- Harry G. Smith, Genevieve Singler Holmes, ved 14 years on the Montgomery County Helen E. Nussman Flaxbeard, Agnes M. Pin- Board of Supervisors. tar Schrass, Mildred G. Wattjes Pudenz, Clarice L. Bagley Ruppert, Judith L. Fricke June 16, 1942, Mr. Fricke married Miss Gipson, John S. Lehenbauer, Pauline M. Margaret L. Nash Wolaver. She had spent McClain and Mrs. Cornelia Colonius. most of her early life in Newark, N. J. Mrs. Fricke and her mother, Ann Nieft Wolaver, * * * * came back to Nokomis in October, 1935, to "Report of Nat'l Bank - Resources take care of her grandfather, Henry C. Nieft. $151,345.72. A. J. Williford. cashier; H. F. Grandpa Nieft was born in Louisville, Ky., Rood, Geo. Tavlor, Geo. Seppell - directors." one hundred years ago, coming to this com- (1887). munity at an early age. His wife, Fiebe "Our town (Nokomis) is $2,000 out of Apple, and her parents were settlers of the debt - why not build a pavilion in the park'? Nokomis Community over a century ago. Litchfield is building one in their park and The Fricke Shoe Store is a family shoe they are deeply in debt." 1878 store, handling Poll-Parrot shoes for the children, Trim-Tred for the growing feet of "Town Board officers elected March 11, shoes for men. style of women, and Rand 1881 - John Frasier, pres.; A. H. Draper, "Star Back, when Nokomis was very young; clerk; Geo. Stevens, attorney; Thos. Ridler, familiar slo- Brand Shoes are Better" was a constable & street commissioner; James gan. Topping, night constable - all on the Temper- that has given The reception Nokomis ance ticket." the Fricke's venture into business, is greatly appreciated - Hoping to serve you, the public, "Nokomis Catholic Church rededicated for many vears to come. Februarv 22. 1881." -77- SIDES I. G. A. MARKET NOKOMIS BUILDING ASSOCIATION

The Sides I. G. A. Market has been 112 South Pine Street, Nokomis Illinois serving the Nokomis community with gro- The Nokomis Building Association, the ceries, meats, and vegetables for the past oldest and strongest savings and loan asso- thirty-five years. Floyd B. Sides started in ciation in Montgomery County, was orga- the grocery business just across the street nized May 6, 1881 by David H. Zepp, Fred from the present location in the summer of O. Paddock, John Marsland, Henry Randle, 1921. and John E. Atchinson. In June, 1938, the Nokomis National During its 75 years of service, the No- Bank Building sold. was Mr. Sides bought komis Building Association has gone through it and, after remodeling, moved to the pre- several depressions, always emerging sent location, 101 East State Street. the At financially strong. In 1953 the assets of the same time Mr. affiliated Sides became with Association crossed the Million Dollar mark. The Independent Grocers of America. This Today there are over $120,000.00 in reserves. is a national organization in which indepen- The Association is a member of the dent grocers buy collectively, passing the Federal Home Loan Bank, the United States saving, that is gained, to the customers. Savings and Loan League, the Illinois Sav- The popularity of this store is not alone ings and Loan League, and the Federal due to the well of known brands canned or Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation, an packed goods on the shelves, but also to the instrumentality of the United States Govern- watchword, SERVICE. The whole atmos- ment, which insures all savings accounts up phere is one of courteous, pleasant, and to $10,000.00 each. efficient attention, that at once wins cus- Hundreds of home owners in Nokomis tomers to the store. They know that for and surrounding territory thank the Noko- quality their line of meats, groceries, and mis Building Association for making it canned goods cannot be excelled. You will possible for them to own their homes. The always find the select and unusual at Sides money placed in savings accounts with this I. G. A. Store. association is reinvested in first mortgage Floyd B. Sides married the former Miss home loans. Ruth Rhine; both are natives of the Nokomis During the past year over $29,000.00 in community. Floyd is the son of the late Mr. dividends has been paid on savings accounts and Mrs. William E. Sides, and his wife is the in the Nokomis Building Association, making daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles a sizable amount to be put in circulation in Rhine of Nokomis. the Nokomis Community. Mr. and Mrs. Sides make their home in By the time this book is ready for gen- a beautiful brick bungalow at 210 South eral distribution, it is probable that the Maple Street. They reared Mrs. Sides' name of the corporation will be changed to nephew, James Brackenhoff, who clerks in the Nokomis Savings and Loan Association the store. He married Miss Nelda Harbert of as being a more appropriate name for ser- the Harvel community. They have one son vices offered by the Association. and two daughters. Dr. Millard H. Irwin, director for 24 Mr. Sides is a member of the Nokomis years and president for the past 13 years, Chamber of Commerce and the local died January 28, 1956. Arnold Woltmann, a A. F. & A. M. lodge. He has always taken an director for 23 years and vice-president for active interest in civic affairs of the Noko- the past 13 years, died April 23, 1956. mis community and it is his desire to be able to be of service for years to come. The present officers and directors are Dr. J. L. Walcher, president; A. E. Vandever, * * * * vice-president; A. P. Pauschert, vice-presi- "Gregor Fleck, the butcher, installed dent; Edwin F. Pannwitt, secretary- machinery to make bologna and other kinds treasurer; Merle B. Kottwitz, assistant secre- of sausage." 1889 tary; L. W. Woltmann and George Moeller. —78- STIEHL FUNERAL HOMES mander of the local, county and district Nokomis — Witt Legion and has served the Post as service The Stiehl Funeral Homes have been officer since 1924. He was a charter member very familiar names in giving that extra and first secretary of the Nokomis Rotary service in Nokomis, Witt, and Ohlman com- club and has served on the County and State munities for the past many years, under the boards of the Tuberculosis Associations. The able directorship of O. J. Stiehl. He and his name of "Stiehl's" has been history making wife, the former Amanda Monke, are from on the Nokomis Road of Progress. the Mt. Olive community, where they were • * * * married after Mr. Stiehl returned from NOKOMIS LUMBER COMPANY World War I. O. J. Stiehl was graduated from the Nokomis Lumber Company dates back Worsham College of Mortuary Science, and to 1913 when Frank and Harry Hargrave did first located in South Bend, Ind., where he business for a quarter century, then the successfully managed a funeral home for building was left to deteriorate. Rufus Niemi and Roy Kessinger several years. On October 1, 1922, Mr. and held weekly sales here Mrs. Stiehl came to Nokomis after they had for a time. purchased the Kroeger & Arnold Funeral On January 16, 1950, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Home. When the building on Main Street J. Luba of Cicero, 111., and Dwain R. Seifert, became inadequate, due to parking facilities, and Charles Dobernick bought the building the Stiehls purchased the building at Main from Mr. Niemi, and completely remodeled and Maple St. and the adjoining residence. it with modern equipment. The first of this Both were remodeled, grounds landscaped, year Mr. Dobernick sold his interest to the

and on Dec. 1, 1935, the present funeral home, other two. used exclusively for funeral services, was The Nokomis Lumber Co. has the agency dedicated to the Nokomis community. of the Johns Manville panels and planks In July of 1946 a father-son partnership which build, decorate, and insulate at the was formed, when Jay, son of Mr. and Mrs. same time. Stiehl, returned from three and one half Lillian and Frank Luba have a dry years' service in the U. S. Navy. This ar- goods store in Cicero, and are the parents of rangement continued until 1949, when Jay three daughters. D. R. Seifert, the manager, and his family moved to Atwood, Illinois, is a serviceman of World War II; he married where they are engaged in farming. Rowena Christy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. At this time Lee Dawson, a licensed fun- Alex Christy. They have three sons: Larry, eral director, became affiliated with the Kenneth and Alex. Rowena operates the Stiehls - the present arrangement. "Rowena Beauty Shop". On October 1, 1951, Stiehls bought the Stauder & Hoehn Funeral Service in Witt * * * * and they are now serving both communities As these are prosperous times, and No- Besides their son, Jay, the Stiehls have komis is the most enterprising town on this one daughter, Myra Ramers, now living in road, why not sink a coal shaft? (April, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. They also have four 1880). grandsons and one granddaughter. Since coming to Nokomis the Stiehls "The Building Association made its first have been active in all community affairs. 10. loan on Tuesday night of this week I May They are members of Trinity Lutheran 1881 ), the money selling at a premium of 25 Church. Mr. Stiehl being chairman of the and 30 per cent." building committee of the newly erected church. Mrs. Stiehl has also been active in will sell the ladies' organizations of the church and "Bee Line Route I & St. L. R.R. community. Mr. Stiehl has served as secre- excursion tickets to Washington and return tary of the Merchants Assn., has been com- for all to see the inauguration." March, 1881. LP GAS PLANT OF NOKOMIS GAS & ELECTRIC COMPANY PIONEERS IN THE HANDLING AND USE OF LP GAS

This company was opened for business dropped and since that time the company on Mar. 15th, 1928, by L. E. Nantkes and Ora has been promoting the use of what is K. Weber. It was organized primarily for the known as L P Gas. From this small begin- purpose of handling farm machinery, but ning the company now serves more than 700 during the first year bottled natural gas was customers. The management has always put on the market and this was added to the believed that employees are entitled to share line. This company installed one of the first in any profits, so at the present time the L P Gas stoves in Central Illinois. After two company is owned by L. E. Nantkes, Morris years Mr. Weber left the Company and it has H. Rennekamp, Ambrose Kroenlein, James since been under the management of L. E. Goodwin, Ray West, Mildred Fetsko, and Nantkes. The next year farm machinery was Mary A. Jodaitis. * * BRANHAMS VARIETY STORE The Branhams wish to say "Thanks" to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Branham started a the Nokomis Community, with expressed Nokomis Variety Store on the last of March, appreciation to their efficient managers. 1915, in the Kroeger & Arnold Bldg., now owned by Elio Tosetti. * * * * GIFT SHOP In 1917, as the war years had expanded CARROLL'S ANTIQUE & their business, the Branhams bought at the A hobby that started in her home 13 present location from Jesse Griffin, who had years ago has developed into a thriving bus- conducted a hardware and furniture store. iness at 120 E. State St., Nokomis. May, 1919, Mr. and Mrs. Branham Mrs. Hilda Carroll, daughter of Mr. and bought another variety store in Terre Haute, Mrs. Theo. Geiss, handles anything that can Ind. and moved to that city, leaving their be termed a collector's item. Most of her store, in Nokomis, to hired managers. The many customers are out of town and she first manager was Leoretto Kroller, /followed prides the fact that her first customer in 1943 by Mr. Fletch, Fred C. Michelman, Mr. still does business at Carroll's Antique and Browman, and the present manager, Leslie Gift Shop — a thought that all business likes Sperry. Leslie started working in the store to cherish. in 1946 and became manager 3 yrs. later. Mr. * * * * Michelman served in this capacity for 25 years, from 1923 - 1948. Carrie Cook has "The A. F. Weaver new home is com- worked in the store for 34 years. pleted." (Now the Park House). 1889

-80- THE SALE SUPERETTE NOKOIUIS NEWSPAPERS Phone 16 AG Food Store Nokomis, 111. Probably the oldest business venture in Nokomis is the Free Press, which was first The Sale Superette is probably the old- published in 1877 by E. M. Hulbert, and. now est location of a grocery store in Nokomis. in its 87th year, is known as the Free Press- Henry Runge started a grocery at this loca- Progress. tion around 1886 and sold out to Crumbaugh & Law in 1898. Crumbaugh & Law operated In 1877 the Free Press and the Gazette, that started a few months under this name until 1899 when it became a newspaper had Crumbaugh & Co. before, were consolidated under the name of In April of 1900 F. C. Best purchased the Free Press-Gazette and managed by Hulbert business from Crumbaugh & Co. and in Jan. and Graden. Later Adam Rademacher ob- E. 1901, he took a partner, W. H. Shannon. This tained possession until 1880 when M. firm of Shannon & Best operated until 1912 Hulbert again took over the duties of editor. the when they sold to Frank Kroeger and H. A. It was in 1881 that J. W. Wild entered Arnold. Kroeger and Arnold operated as picture working as a printer for Mr. Hulbert partners until 1924 when Frank Kroeger for six years, after which time Wild became entered the insurance field and H. A. Arnold a partner with Mr. Hulbert. continued to operate the grocery and dry The exact date of Mr. Hulbert's leaving goods business; H. A. "Dutch" Arnold stay- the newspaper business in Nokomis is not ed the longest of any of his predecessors, known, but his interest was sold to Henry selling to George M. Sale in 1950. George Webster, who died in 1917. Mrs. Webster and "Dutch" spent the longest time of any delegated her part in the business to her son, in this location. George Sale started to work Luther E. Shoemaker. for H. A. Arnold in March, 1927, and pur- During this period there was a paper chased the business in Oct. 1950, making al- being published by A. K. Vandever and his most 24 years of pleasant employer-employee sons, A. E. and L. K. Vandever, named the relationship. Progress, which had been purchased from The present building was built in W. P. Hagthrop in 1908. It was in 1917 that 1899 or 1900 by Robert Gelly. Robert Gelly A. E. Vandever and Luther E. Shoemaker maintained ownership of the building until consolidated the two papers under the name his death, when it was sold by his heirs to of the Free Press-Progress. Several years Kroeger & Arnold in 1916. In 1932 H. A. later Shoemaker sold his interest in the Arnold and Frank Kroeger dissolved their paper to Charles R. Frederick; then D. B. real estate holdings and H. A. Arnold became Pauschert entered the picture by taking over the owner until he sold to George Sale in the Frederick interest. It was in 1934 that Oct., 1950. Pauschert sold his interest in the paper to A. Geo. M. Sale, son of Phillip and Ida Sale, E. Vandever. The paper is now owned by A. married Ella Engelman, daughter of Edward E. Vandever, Edmond B. Vandever, and and Gertrude Engelman, in Nov. 1933. They Edward J. Ovca, and operated by Vandever have three children, Donald, at present in and Ovca. East; Shelby, a the U. S. Army in the Far The plant is a well fitted country age 3. junior in High School, and Georgia, printing office publishing the seven column, policy of all our prede- It has been the 10 to 16 page weekly newspaper and doing customer and cessors to deal fairly with the commercial and offset printing. maintain quality at fair prices. This is still • * * • the aim of The Sale Superette to give "Qual- Some market prices in 1887: spring ity Food at Economical Prices." Employed at lb chicken 4c lb.; roosters 2c lb.; hens 4c a ; trie Sale Superette in addition to the family apples 50c a bu.; beefsteak 10c a lb.; roast 8c is Rudy Hribar and Dorothy Westphal. Our 10c a lb.; corn 26 & 27c a bu.; best wishes to Nokomis and community on a lb.; bacon 8 & 72c a bu.; oats 22c a bu.; butter 8-15c this centennial celebration. May Nokomis wheat have continued success and prosperity. a lb. THE NOKOMIS EQUITY ELEVATOR the Company operated at a loss. All other fair amount of profit. THE NOKOMIS EQUITY ELEVATOR years have netted a Since 1947 the warehouse space has been pictured above was organized in 1930. The greatly increased and an additional 80,000 elevator proper, concrete warehouse, and bu. of grain storage has been built. The part of the present office were constructed original elevator was modernized, and labor in 1918 and operated until 1930 under the saving modern cleaning, grinding and mix- name of NOKOMIS FARMERS CO-OP ing facilities were installed to render the ELEVATOR COMPANY. At that time the best of service to the patrons. These im- Company was re-organized under its present provements have increased the total fixed charter and became affiliated with the Na- assets of the Company from the original tional Farmers Equity, whose president was $47,000.00 to the present $156,000.00. Mr. LeRoy Milton of Greenville, 111. The Besides handling grain, the Company Company is chartered and operates under retails feed, seed, fertilizer, and farm supplies the Capper-Volstead Act of 1923. for its members and patrons. The first Board of Directors were Wm. The present Board of Directors are Weber, vice-pres.; Herzog, pres.; Henry C. Henry C. Weber, pres.; Edw. O. Herzog, vice- sec'y-! Fred Bauman, George Wm. Brockman, pres.; Fred C. Bauman, sec'y-; Harold Casey, Janssen and John Epley. Hardy, Heie D. Joseph Schrempp, Walter J. Meier, and Les- Phillips as manager, Roy N. was employed ter Epley. Others who have served on the served in that capacity until Jan., 1947. and Board at different times since the Company The charter members of the organization was organized are Albert Reincke, Fred consisted of 92 co-op minded producers of Michelman, Richard J. Wattjes and Maurice this trading area with a capital investment Archibald. of $28,000.00. This number has increased Of the 92 original stockholders, 23 are until the Company now has 715 stockholders still producers and members after 26 years. with a capital investment of $77,625.00. At present the Company is managed by Fred Five of the first eight years of operation Heck who succeeded Mr. Phillips in 1947.

H2 NOKOMIS FARMERS MUTUAL FIRE From their beginning of five townships AND LIGHTNING INSURANCE CO. in 1876 and less than sixteen thousand & dollars in assets, they now have over nine PANA-HILLSBORO DISTRICT CYCLONE million dollars and twelve hundred policy MUTUAL INSURANCE CO. holders representing sixteen townships. The Farmers Mutual has the lowest rates of an; When Nokomis was only twenty years of the non-profit insurance companies of the old, the Nokomis Farmers Mutual Fire and state. It is affiliated with the Pana-Hillsboro Lightning Insurance Company was started; District Cyclone Mutual Ins. Co., located at therefore they are celebrating eighty years Hillsboro. Henry F. Hofferkamp is president, of continuous service in this farming Herbert S. Smith, vice-president and C. W. community. Boone, secretary. This company handles the Philadelphia Due to heavy losses in coverage of wind, cyclone, and had of forty- years ago, Ben- more than two hundred five counties of Illinois, which is the second started the Philadelphia jamin Franklin largest in the state governed by the Depart- of which the Mutual Contributionship, ment of Insurance, and as such, have their local Mutual Company is a branch. In fact Annual Meeting on the fourth Tuesday in all insurance is based upon this humble be- January. At the past meeting the following organization ginning. On March 1, 1876, an fourteen directors were re-elected: L. W. meeting was called with J. H. Beatty as Hulbert and Harry Hoffman, Nokomis; president and L. A. Sweany as secretary. Clarence Zeifang and Chester Pocock. Audu- chosen Two weeks later, A. F. Weaver was bon; Olin N. Snyder and Rex Weller, was as permanent secretary. This meeting Rountree; Louis N. Probst and Edw. Speiser, the five held in the Weaver Building where Witt; Gerald McElroy and Phillip Speiser, town- directors elected, representing each Irving; Carl Reincke and Nelson Bollman, ship, were J. M. Kerr, Rountree; A. F. Greenwood; and John Brookens and Frank Weaver, Nokomis; Wm. Oberle, Witt; J. B. Repschen, Johnson Township. Pocock, Audubon; and Wm. Bowers, Irving. The sixteen townships from which any as president. In 1882 J. M. Kerr was put in of the directors can take applications are At the Annual Meeting, 1889, Jacob Nokomis, Witt, Rountree, Audubon, Irving, Haller was elected president and F. M. Raymond and N. Fillmore in Montgomery McNaughton as secretary; E. B. Pocock also County; Oconee in Shelby County; Hurri- served as the president with Mr. Brophy as cane in Fayette County; Bear Creek, Green- secretary. William H. Casselberry later took wood, Johnson, Ricks, Locust, Rosamond Mr. Brophy's place and served the company and Taylorville in Christian County. At the well for many years. Annual Meeting, bordering townships can be Going into modern history, we find added. Mutual and Perry Weber as president and R. B. Warn- May the Nokomis Farmers be congratu- sing as the secretary. Mr. Warnsing served Lightning Insurance Company performed in the until his death in 1949. The following Annual lated for the fine service they continue to Meeting, January. 1950, E. W. Schneider was past eighty years and may for years and years to elected secretary and is serving now. In 1947 serve the community Clarence Zeifang was elected president. come. * * • * - Headquarters Camp-fire and College Students - Amy Stewart, Jack- G. A. R. Soldiers and Sailors in Nokomis, sonville; Jennie Hulbert and Wm. Gray, Reunion of 29, 1889. Shurtleff; Martha Upstone, Oxford Seminary; September 27, 28, John Seys, Ann Arbor; Luella Denman, "Nokomis will hold its first annual fair Smith College in Northampton, Mass. Sept. 25, 26, 27, 1889." "Lafe Sawyer graduated from North- bathing in the Mill Pond." 1884 western U. College of Pharmacy - July, 1889. "No

;;:; larity of water skiing has advanced so rapid- ly that water skis have now become the main item manufactured. The early years were a struggle for this :> new industry and during the first two years it operated at a loss. With determination and hard work of the officers of the company THE HEDLUND MANUFACTURING and the full cooperation of its employees, the plant has now grown to the extent that, with COMPANY each passing year, production and sales have practically doubled. The Hedlund Manufac- turing Company supplies its products to In July, 1948, Swan Hedlund met Ed every state in the United States and exports Ruppert and Ray McCurdy at a reunion at a to many foreign countries. Inquiries regard- skis lake in Augusta, Wisconsin, and during the ing these water have been received from various parts of the world and shipments course of conversation Mr. Hedlund express- have recently been made to Singapore, Dutch ed a desire to go into business and stated Indies, Tahiti, South America, Mexico, that he was interested in establishing a wood- Canada, England, and Sweden. Approxi- working plant, having had a number of years mately 90^ of the water skis used by experience in this line of work in Minnesota. champions and in competition in tourna- The Nokomisans advised that Nokomis was ments are furnished by this company. It looking for a new industry and hoped that has become the largest water ski manufac- the town might be considered for a location. turer in the country, and the name of Noko- mis is known far and wide as the home of The following day Mr. Hedlund and Mr. the Hydro-Flite water skis. Glenn L. Reed started driving south through The plant was originally started with Illinois and had tentatively thought they 10,000 sq. ft. of floor space; facilities have might find a location in the southern part of been expanded extensively during the past the state near Cairo. However, they investi- years so that at the present time another gated all possibilities along the route and addition is being made to the plant which, actually did not get all the way down to when completed, will give approximately southern Illinois. They had almost decided 30,000 sq. ft. of space in all. Five years ago on locating in Litchfield when Mr. Ruppert the manufacture of water skis averaged and Mr. McCurdy persuaded them to come to about 1500 pairs for the year, three years Nokomis as the people were anxious to get ago 10,000 pairs, and this year it is estimated industry in the locality. Mr. Kenneth Moss that production will be well over 40,000 was contacted and a meeting of the business pairs besides all other accessories and in ad- men was called. An agreement was entered dition to the other lines manufactured. Em- into at that time whereby Nokomis New In- ployees have increased from the original dustries would furnish a building for the eight to seventy and office personnel from plant, shares of stock being sold by Nokomis one to seven. New Industries to finance the project. In 1953 a sled manufacturing business Upon completion in late 1948, the build- was purchased and added to plant opera- ing was sold to the Hedlund Manufacturing tions. At the present time Hedlund Manu- Company who opened for business in Jan- facturing Company manufactures water skis, uary, 1949, with eight plant employees and toboggans, snow skis, sleds, and hockey one office employee. Principal items manu- sticks. factured at the time were toboggans and The Hedlund Manufacturing Company snow skis. Late in that year the manufac- is grateful to the people of Nokomis for ture of water skis was started on a small their support and proud to have been a part scale but during the past few years the popu- of the town's progress. —84— THE KETTELKAMP IMPLEMENT CO. firm as bookkeeper. The Kettelkamps are

The JOHN DEERE CO. whose business in the parents of three children - sons. Benn; Nokomis is handled by the Kettelkamp Im- and Bruce, and daughter. Sue. plement Company, is marking 100 years of Leon Pieper, mechanic, was workii PROGRESS- - just as Nokomis is doing this Mr. Snedeker when Julius V. Kettelkamp year. The first premium on plows at the bought the business and has b» Illinois State Fair in 1856 was taken by John since. Lester Fesser, parts-man, has been Deere, of Moline, who exhibited a dozen with the firm for the past fifteen years. different sizes for different uses. The Kettelkamp Implement Company The history of the Kettelkamp Imple- offers the best of implements and ment Company had its beginning about 40 that this agricultural community could ask years ago when Julius F. Kettelkamp, with for. With the plow that took honors a1 the Miller, Crickenberger, and Young, was in the State Fair, the Kettelkamp Implement Com- real estate and insurance business. Their pany, salutes Nokomis and the 100 vears of office was where Rt. 16 Cafe is now located. PROGRESS. Mr. Kettelkamp was still on the farm, north • * * * of Nokomis, but would walk to work every day. In 1917 Mr. Kettelkamp built at the corner of E. State and Maple Streets. Here he held the agency for Chevrolet and Over- land cars. In 1926 he took over the agency to sell Oliver implements, along with his car and insurance business. In 1928, when Ted and Henry Johnson took the International JUBELTS VARIETY BAKERIES line of implements. Mr. Kettelkamp decider! 114 E. State St. Nokomis, 111. to handle the John Deere implements; at that The B. & B. Bakery was located at this time he bought the present building from location, when Bob and Evelyn Allan started Ray W. Snedeker, and the firm was known in 1949. Mr. Allan at one time worked for as the Kettelkamp Implement Co. With this Jubelt Bakeries. purchase, he took over the agency of selling This spring Mr. Jubelt added Nokomis Hudson, Dodge and Essex cars, along with to his list of four bakery shops. Gene Gorsich the others. He continued in this large line is the baker and manager of the Nokomis of selling until his death on March 26, 1943, shop, and Mrs. Bliss Parker and Mrs. Junior when John F. Cook, who had been his sales- Parker are clerks. man since 1923, took over the management Paul M. Jubelt started in Mt. Olive in for Mrs. Emma Kettelkamp, wife of the has places in Mt. Olive, founder. Mr. Cook served in this capacity 1922 and now Litchfield, Taylorville and the one in Noko- until February 2, 1952, when the business mis. His son, John, is associated with him. was sold; thus Johnny put in thirty years of service for the Kettelkamp Implement Mr. and Mrs. Jubelt make their home in Company. The business changed hands but Mt. Olive and manage the local shop. Besides not the name, when Fred W. Kettelkamp, son the son, John, they are the parents of a of Mr. and Mrs. Benj. T. Kettelkamp, bought daughter, Mrs. Dorothy McEdowney, of the company. They also have the agency for Chicago Heights, 111. Westinghouse appliances. The Jubelt Variety Bakeries wish to congratulations to the Fred was born and raised on a farm in extend the heartiest Nokomis Centennial. the Kettelkamp community north of Noko- mis. He truly knows the farmers' needs by • * * * actual experience. Mr. Kettelkamp married "A singing school under management of with more than the former Miss Noretta Hicks, a graduate Rev. McKee opened 45 - 1S84." of the Pana High School. She works for the scholars May, —85- this community a fine place to shop. Capt. Richardson and family are now living in San Antonio, Tex. The story of Mr. and Mrs. Fred B. Johnson can be found under Johnson Auto Co. History. * * * * ILLINOIS CONSOLIDATED MOHAWK TELEPHONE COMPANY The Montgomery County Telephone Co. FURNITURE & HARDWARE COMPANY was organized in October, 1895, with the following directors: G. W. Huffer and W. S. The history of the Mohawk Furniture & Berry of Coffeen; J. J. Frey, C. A. Ramsey, Hardware Co. dates back to 1904, when the A. M. Howell, and W. A. Howett of Hillsboro; late F. J. Pannwitt bought the implement G. Carstens of Nokomis. In 1896 the first business from the Challecomb Brothers. telephone line was completed to Nokomis This was in the corner building that now with the instrument in the Schaper Drug houses the Nokomis Implement Co. In 1908 Store. Edwin joined his father in business and the The 1908 Nokomis telephone directory firm was known as F. J. Pannwitt >& Son. listed 428 names, 28 of which are still in the In 1912 Mr. Pannwitt took on a line of 1956 directory. hardware and built the present building. This company was sold to the Illinois Four years later Mr. Pannwitt and son added Consolidated Telephone Co. in 1924. The furniture, along with their hardware, and following tabulation shows the growth of four years later the building was enlarged. telephone subscribers in Nokomis since 1915: Edwin continued the business after the 1915_472 telephones; 1925—760; 1935—560; death of his father, with the help of his 1945_797 1955—1,305; and 1956—1,339. ; brother-in-law, Fred Layer, and Edward Today there are 11 operators—Julia Ruppert, until July 24, 1946, when Fred B. Epley, chief operator; Billie Schaefer, bought the building and Edgar Johnson supervisor; Dorothy Bruns, Helen Cassidy, Richardson, son-in-law of Mr. Johnson, Mary Conterio, Anna Belle Glavish, Donna started what was known as the Richardson Janssen, Nelinda Tosetti, Wanda Turner, Furniture and Hardware Store. Delores Reed, Jean Wright, and two line- Mr. Richardson was in the Army Air men, Julio Maretti and Wm. Westphal—in Corps Reserves and was therefore called the Nokomis office where more than 4,500 back into the service on March 1, 1953; at local calls and 200 long distance calls are that time Lloyd V. Davis, who was a native averaged daily. of Nokomis, but had been in St. Louis for the last 12 years, was called to manage the store. • * * * With Eddie Richardson in Greenland "Considerable labor is now being per- and not being able to look after his interest formed on the east part of Union St. The in the store properly, he decided to sell to street commissioner hopes to secure a per- his father-in-law on the first of Oct., 1953. fect system of drainage." (Now, 72 years Fred B. Johnson took over the store and later, East Union is again under reconstruc- changed the name to Mohawk Furniture & tion.) Hardware Co. He retained Lloyd Davis as manager until his untimely death, April 14, "Nokomis baseball team defeated Hills •• 1956. Others who work for the firm are Ed. boro's team - July, 1884." Ruppert, Jerry Crow, and Roy Becker. The building is a two-story structure "Notice - All members of the Nokomis and is one of the best built and best looking Library association will please return books in Nokomis; the well known brands of fur- by Friday, April 23, 1880. S. A. Henkel - niture with the fine stock of hardware give librarian." WELSCH'S

BAKERY &- RESTAURANT

SPRUCE STREET

NOKOMIS, ILLINOIS

Joseph IDelsch, Prop.

1906 - 1932

—87- Piano and Voice Buchko's Barber Shop St., Geo. Buchko, Prop. 119 S. Maple St., Margaret Rademacher, 211 W. State Instructor, Ph. 49 F. Vernetti, Barber

Chiropractor Wilson's DeLuxe Barber Shop B. Parsons, Prop. 110 E. State St., Irvin Mathias, Ph. 104 19 S. Spruce St., A.

Optometrist Cesaretti Oil Company Cesaretti, Distributor 104 S. Pine St., Benj. T. Rose, Phone 72-L 211 N. Maple, Louis Ph. 251-K Woodman Life & Accident Insurance Co. 204 S. Vine St., James Vancil Agt., Ph. 60-W D-X Oil 103 Frederick St., Milton (Bill) Kettelkamp, Schaefer's Coal Company Distr., Ph. 292-K 206 W. Front St., Homer Schaefer, Ph. 159 Farmers' Service Station Charlie's Plumbing and Heating 315 E. State St., Wm. J. Nash, Mgr. Ph. 151-K 212 S. Vine St., Chas. Lehnen, Prop. Ph. 116-L Gipson's Sinclair Station Cor. S. Spruce & E. Union, Jesse R. Gipson, Plumbing, Sheet Metal, Furnace Work Prop. S. Spruce St., C. R. Gleich, Reg. Plumber Prop. Golitko Cities Service E. Rt. 16, John "Cot" Golitko, Mgr. Lenzi Plumbing and Heating Ph. 227-K 713 N. Spruce St., Joe Lenzi, Jr., Lisc. Plumber, Ph. 217 Goodwin Service Station UN. Spruce St., Johnny & Tommy Mutt and Jeff — Builders Marathon Oil and Gas Harry Stinn and Jack Sale

Charm Beauty Shop Heck's Texaco Service Rt. 16, Herb Heck, Prop., Ph. 276-K 212 S. Vine St., Ursula Lehnen, Prop. E. Ph. 116-L Hinkle Standard Service Opal Matthews' Beauty Shop Cor. W. State l& S. Cedar, Chas. Hinkle, Prop. 19% S. Spruce St. Opal Matthews, Prop. Ph. 155 Ph. 449-L

Nokomis Oil Company Rowena's Beauty Shop W. Rt. 16, Izzy & Barney, Props., Ph. 186 Ph. 443-K 330 Sherman St., Rowena Seifert, Prop. Wharton's Marathon Service Station Wharton, Prop., Ph. 242-K Shamrock Beauty Shop Rt. 16, Guy 104 So. Spruce St., Doris Dewerff, Prop. Ph. 93-K Wides Service Station Cor. W. State & S. Cedar, Joe Lenzi, Sr. Virginia Ann Beauty Salon Mgr. 112 S. Pine St., Mary Spengel, Prop., Ph. 34 Village Tavern Len's Barber Shop Coalton — John Fetsko, Prop. 112 S. Spruce St., Leonard Mehochko, Prop. Phone 285-L -38— PICTURES

and

REMINISCENCES

MEMORIES ARE PRECIOUS TREASURES WE KEEP WITHIN THE INNER VAULT OF OUR SOULS. In Solemn Tribute to

Those of Our Comrades-

Courageous, Great £Men-

For Whom There Was

c Z\o Homecoming

CIVIL WAR SPANISH AMERICAN WAR

WORLD WAR I

WORLD WAR II F. Schaper, G. Scott, M. Stobbs, A. Kroll, F. Swartz, A. Kerr, O. Ekey

A. J. Eekhoff, (Unknown), W. Stobbs, L. Oberle, R. Tooley, C. Pullen, G. Whitten, W. Greg, D. Weaver

Nokomis City Park

(fence around it)

James W. Scott

Fred Homley

—91— A Chicken Dinner to value those days; they decided to pay him if he had any more. When Thomas Stevenson Battles arrived a visit and find out Hearing of this by way of the grape-vine, in Nokomis 95 years ago he carried five sent a telegram to the governor, who re- hundred dollars in gold in a money belt he that there would be 100 militia-men around his body which he said grew heavier plied within an hour's ride of the place. This each day. With this he bought 200 acres of sent back by grape-vine, and land from Wesley Seymore, a land agent at message was guerrillas never came. Hillsboro, 160 acres of which had been part the of a land grant used to pay off a Massa- Nevertheless everything was kept ready chusetts volunteer for his service in the for a raid and one day a large group was seen army. coming through the swamp that bordered A short time later Mr. Battles brought the south edge of the farm. The dust was so his wife, Ann E. Battles, and six children, great that only a few horsemen could be dis- the youngest of whom, Anna, aged 4, was tinguished. All ran for the house and armed well known in Nokomis as Mrs. George N. themselves with rifles, shot guns, pistols, Uzzell. The adventures of this family were pitch forks, axes, corn knives, and clubs. The many and varied. Anna loved to come to two smallest girls, Hannah and Anna, were town and watch the horses work the tread- told to get under the bed which they did only mill that sawed wood for the trains, as all to pop out again to see what was going on locomotives burned wood at that time. The They were chased back again; about that station was an old box-car located behind time the dust cleared away revealing what Rood's General Store which stood about was supposed to be guerrillas to be a herd of where Keele's place is now. The one other cattle stampeding and the horsemen were business building was the blacksmith shop the herders trying to round them up. owned by Smith Swords, an ancestor of the This story is taken from the records kept well known Dickey Swords. by Mrs. Anna Battles Uzzell and her parents, Mrs. Matilda Swords Frassier and her and is correct in every detail. husband were living on the farm bought by Mr. Battles, and they sold him their crops, February 27, 1891 livestock and poultry. The pigs and ducks The Champion Peach which orginated at slept under the cabin and kept up such a Nokomis, at the nursery of Mr. I. G. Hubbard noise that no one could sleep. The ducks nib- appears to be getting a world wide reputa- bled the floor and the pigs were full of fleas tion. that got into the house and bit the kids, We observe a number of extracts from so the cabin had to be boarded up to keep leading papers and testimonials with refer- them out. ence to this peach, and as they come from

The chickens were so wild it was neces- high authority it speaks well for Mr. Hub- sary to shoot one if a chicken dinner was bard as a pomologist. wanted. One day company came unexpected- Points of superiority claimed for this ly and the son was sent out to shoot a guinea variety of peach are hardiness and produc- Little sister Anna peeked around the corner tiveness. It ripens early, is one of the largest of the house to see how he was getting along and highly flavored early peaches, and best just as he fired. One shot hit her, knocking shipper of early variety. It is a perfect free her down and scaring him nearly out of his stone—a rare thing among early peaches. wits. She was not badly hurt but she carried the mark all her life. He hit the guinea, two On Thursday May 7, 1891, a swarm of hens, and crippled the rooster. As this was bees attacked the team of horses driven by during the Civil War, the settlers had trouble Walter Hovey and hitched to J. Woltmann's with guerrillas, a band of whom had their & Co. produce wagon. As a result the team headquarters at Van Burensberg. Hearing of ran away, the wagon was demoralized, and Mr. Battles having paid for his land with 200 dozen eggs were broken. The accident gold (paper money being very uncertain as happened some six miles north of town.

-92- Nokomis Juvenile Band—1916

Back row: E. Belcher, A. Baxter, S. Nash, B. Belcher, J. Masner, A. Geral, V. Layman. M. Pier- punt, J. Harrison

Middle row: J. Bostonetti, G. Kapilla, S. Willis, J. Pendleton, P. McPherson, R. Bender, G. Maxeiner, O. McManus Front row; E. Krumm, Hutchison II.—drum major, B. Powers. "Chick" Hutchison—leader

The Wm. Taylor Store

Celia Beeler, Minnie Kueck, Lydia Engelmann,

Nell Taylor, Alice Stewart,

Mrs. Taylor, Mr. Taylor Woltmann's White Steamer

G. Brakenhoff, Arnold Woltmann, John Woltmann, Jesse Woltmann

The Jayne Barber Shop

Andrew Jayne and son, Tony

The big snow—March, 1912

f ,4flt&l7

Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church in i Audubon, built in 1856, the forerunner of the

St. Mark's Lutheran Church. This building

was later (1868) sold to the Methodists. The Hartsock Mill

'14 First Armistice Day in Nokomis — 1919

Spannagel Hardware,

Furniture, & Buggies

-95— George Sippell came to From the Nokomis Gazette, June 15, Mr. and Mrs. in 1871 as newlyweds and went to 1872. (T. J. Pickett & H. F. White—Editors). Nokomis housekeeping at the present address of 417 S. A meeting will be held at Brookman's Vine St. Mr. Sippell's jewelry store was lo- Hall, Mon., June 17, to make arrangement cated in a building where the present V.F.W. for a big Fourth of July celebration in Noko- Hall is, and Mrs. Sippell could see the mis. jewelry store from her back door!!! new color is called "Vende". A Mrs. Sippell brought the first bananas The Dolly Varden costumes are falling to Nokomis. She went on a visit to Cincin- into bad repute. nati and brought the bananas back with her. Nokomis Nursery—H. T. Hubbard—one Back in the 70's trains stopped in Noko- mile southeast of Nokomis. mis for the passengers to get their meals at George Culp—Dealer in Burial Caskets. the hotel, The Prairie House operated by Mr. J. L. Mills—Dentist—Teeth filled with Jim Bone on Front St. just back of the sta- gold, silver, or tin foil. tion. The ladies of the Methodist mite society The oldest house in Nokomis which is cleared $70 on their festival held in the still standing was built in 1867. Mr. and Mrs. Brookman Hall. June, 1872. Stanley and Meron live there. It is just across "Lovers' Bridge" on S. Union St. From the Nokomis Weekly Atlas, Feb. 28, 1881. (H. M. Graden, Publisher). "Driving Park Association arranged for Barber Hair Thos. Pinkerton — & races on July 4. Green trotters and pacers. Dresser. Purses $7 for first and $3 for second. Half Fashion. Mrs. Bryce's Bazaar of mile dash for $10 open to all horses." 1896. Matthew Stobbs—Dealer in Clothing. David Marston has sold his residence "Eight foot vein of coal struck at Witt. about one mile south of town, to Robert Shaft completed July, 1896." Getty. Members of the Nokomis Cornet Band "City Council voted to charge School elected E. J. Pullen, leader, and Ad. E. Board 5c a pupil for the use of city water." Rodecker, Sec.-treas. 1896. Married on Thurs., the 24th at the resi- "City Council notified railroad company dence of the officiating clergyman, Rev. Wm. to put crossings at Oak and Walnut Streets." Vanhooser, Mr. John Bruns of Ohlman and (Not in yet.) 1896. Miss Mary Longbine of Rountree. J. N. Barney — dealer in groceries, "Maro and Owen Ekey have a canning queensware, glassware, wood and willow factory on their farm. They have placed in for goods. ware. Produce taken in exchange the stores canned peaches, peach butter, Firm! Easterday Bros., Druggists. New corn, and tomatoes. They raise their own Prices! Stand of Bliss New Goods! New Old fruit and vegetables to can." 1896. & Co.—Jan., 1881. "Some of the boys who bet on the elec- of Presi- "Town in mourning over death tion settled their debts Sat. night by taking closed from dent Garfield. Business houses their friends a ride down Main St. in a 10-4. Black crepe on doors of stores and wheel barrow. The drum corps headed the 1881." homes. Church bells tolled - Sept., procession." 1896. "Button gloves are more worn than mousquetaires." (fashion note, May, 1887). "J. Chambers, H. O. Pinkerton, R. T. "Aaron Garrisine sold his farm of 160 Paddock, O. Ekey, O. Reese, Florence Durdy, acres to Wm. Kettelkamp for $3,500 - less Ollie Pullen, i& Mrs. E. Cooper made up the than $22 an acre." local talent 'Ideal Comedy Company.' They "Hot election between the license and put on the play, 'Josh', to entertain the home anti-license groups. Antis won March, 1879." folks." 1896.

-96- Group of Men on Deer

Hunting Expedition in Arkansas—about 1896

Jim Wilson, Abe Bour- quin, John Durston. Otis

Kellogg, Richard Rawling, John Challacombe, Jacob Harkey. Michael Probst First Paving Project

Nokomis Bachelors

Picnic

Float—"Why Not

Accept Us?"

"50 years ago - taxes were not so high; Church Directory: Baptist - no pastor, circuses had no elephants; sermons were a Lutheran - Rev. Lilly, Christian - Rev. W. mile long; log houses were mansions; pew Van Hoosier, Catholic - Fr. J. Storp, Metho- rents were never heard of; coonskins were dist - Rev. H. W. Davis, Presbyterian - Rev. legal tender; eggs were 3c a doz.; blazed trails T. E. Spillman. guided the traveler; hotels did not charge "Letter list published for letters that had $2 a day; woods were full of wild game; there been in the office 30 days." was no bottom to the roads; beefsteak was 3c "Sid Easterday is moving the old White a lb.; the old oaken bucket hung on a pole.' Settlement school house to his father's farm (1884) where he expects to make a dwelling of it." "Congressman bought a St. Bernard dog Circuit Court proceedings: embezzle- for his sweetheart - object - keep other men ment, carrying concealed weapons, larceny, at all away hazards." perjury, house of ill fame, murder, confidence "Tickets to San Francisco, Los Angeles, game, selling mortgaged property, disturbing, Sacramento via New Orleans February 13 - religious meetings, selling liquor in less March 15 to see the Mardi Gras. Choice 8 quantities than one gallon, selling liquor to routes." —1887 a minor." Woltmann's Store

Jesse Woltmann, Arnold -art

Woltmann, Dora G r o t e,

GarrGarrelt Brakenhoff. Louis m\\ a iann (on wagon).

' ft. Mr. Washington Ekey spent the winter "G. R. Spannagel sold 5280 I if stovepipe in the fall season of 188" in Florida." (That custom isn't new today.)

Ice Cutting On Ekey's Pond

—99— IT WAS A LONELY FACE But men came trudging to this place With tackle and with block To take away this weary face With graceful hands and face as fair Nokomis' old Town Clock. As any maiden near, G. D. Robbins With honesty and talents rare, And Voice, pleasing to hear. * * * * Several of the boys who raided the Thru rain and hail and sun and gale, principal of the Nokomis school last winter, Before the public stare. have been liquidating the amount of their Toiling precisely not to fail fines this week by working it out in street The ones who passed by there; labor. "Basket Picnic at Nokomis, June 15, 1881, And dedicated to a work James Young - Marshal of the day. Free Of most concern to all Masons, Odd Fellows, Knights of Honor all And ne'er a minute did she shirk in full regalia in the parade." Thru summer, spring, or fall. Plea for street crossings from sidewalks around the public square to the stiles. And even when the winter came, "School enrollment Sept., 1881 - Room 1, And blustery winds would blow, Mrs. Randal 71; Room 2, Miss Belnap 49; The work was carried on the same Room 3, Miss Scales 46; Room 4, Miss Shelly In sunshine or in snow. 35; Room 5, Miss Graves 45; Room 6, Miss Boone 40 - total 286." 'Clippers', consis- Thru years and years of honest toil, "Good baseball team Thru prosperous ones and lean, tent winners." Thru happiness and thru turmoil "Prairie House burned - Eureka House This face was always seen. threatened but saved - Front Street, north of R. R. station." 1881. Men looked at her and hurried on; 1884 Some looked and looked again. "Huntley Dramatic Co. played the And many who have looked are gone, drama, "A Celebrated Case", to a large And many strangers came. audience in Weaver's Hall - Jan., 1884." "Nokomis Dramatic Co. presented the To glance at this most lovely face drama, 'Turn of the Tide' or 'Wrecked in And slender graceful hands, Port' at Weaver's Hall - Feb. 22, 1884. Cast: From far and near unto this place G. Castens, G F. Miner, Chas. Randal, Guy They came from many lands. Penwell, J. B. McLean, Miss A. Hovey, Miss Annie Potter, Miss Julia McLean, Miss Lucy But now the years have piled up high Freeman." Upon this face so fair, "Honor Roll pupils Feb., 1884 - Total And these same years have dimmed the eye pupils in school 351 - Bertha Singer, Geo. Of some who lingered there. Fleck, Charlie Littlefield, George Kerr, Daisy Latimer. John Strain, Winnie Weaver, Time claimed the beauty of this face; Johnny Singer. Philip Sale. Walter Hovey, Those hands are motionless, Albert Bess, John Kinney. Lelia Whitten, And men who had admired their grace Katie Strain, Laura Hill, Celia Beeler, Glenn Now see their uselessness. Rhoades, Lucy Frasier, Nathaniel Brophy, Tom Kinney." So when the sun had climbed the east On January 9, 1872, the Nokomis Nation- And heralded the day, al Bank received a charter to conduct busi- There was no minister or priest ness. National banks are chartered for only To kneel or even pray, twentv vears.

-100- mm

First Presbyterian

Church and Parsonage

"G. A. R. Camp - Fire, Oct.. 1884. Five On the program at the County Teachers' thousand present. Mayor Singer gave Meeting was A. K. Vandever who talked on address of welcome. Oconee band furnished the subject "Punishment in School." 1887 music. Local music by Misses Belle Free- "Dr. J. Osborne, our worthy veterinarj land. May Taylor. O. Paddock, N. E. H. and surgeon performed quite a skillful operation Freeman." on a cow of Mr. H. Sperry's last week." 1887 "Mr. L. Manning has in successful opera- "Denman's store, corner of State & Pine, tion a new brick manufacturing machine by Spruce, Jan., which he is able to turn out from 12,000 to moved to corner of State & 15.000 bricks per day." 1879."

Denman's Store

Corner W. State & S. Pine

P z, Ed Fowler—driver. iiif." 'i ' Ge°' Enge,man s grocer> hririZ. * —*= — ^3

"Latest fashionable amusement is the "Party for little Harry Pinkerton to cele- 'progressive picnic'. It is conducted in this brate his third birthday — Sept., 1878." manner: The couples start on a moonlight "Donkey Club gave notice to the young night in buggies; at every half mile a short ladies of the Methodist & Lutheran Churches stop is made; the gentleman alight, change that they would take up positions on each buggies and, consequently, partners. This side of the church steps on Sunday immedi- is continued until each gentleman has made ately after the service." the rounds. It is said the fashion orginated ''Nokomis Ladies' Band played at Palmer in the mind of a well-known society man for a picnic. The Taylorville band of men who found it rather tedious to entertain a also played there. No such music was ever solitary lady for a couple of hours." heard. The men tried to captivate the ladies. "Lawrence Manning received a patent We suspect the two bands will soon consoli- for his new brick kiln - Sept., 1887." date."

Yackle's Shoe Store

-103— Shannon & Best

General Store

First annual commencement of Noko- "Hartsock's mill has a new roller process mis Public School, May 20, 1887. Hugh to be placed in operation soon. Finest in the Archibald gave the address of welcome. state." - A. J. Music by Nokomis Male Quartette "New school house in Audubon Twp. Paddock, Alf Griffin, Joe Williford, John Sept. 18, 1878." Paddock. Miss Millie Haller gave the vale- "Good hotel accomodations at the Noko- dictory address. Each graduate (4) gave mis House on Front St. operated by J. W. essays: "Benefits of Discontent," "White- Hancock. Later changed to Eureka House wash," "Voices of the Wind," "Dignity of corner of Front St. and N. Spruce St." Labor." on "Machinery has arrived for the Nokomis Train schedule in 1887 showed 4 passen- Creamery, and it will soon be placed ready ger trains westbound and 3 east bound each for operation - June 3, 1887." day. (That was accomodation).

Kerr Hardware Store

—104 First Autos In Nokomis Dr. W. C. Hovey Joseph Brenner—Jerome Taylor

their "Wanted - An elevated walk on the "The Greenbackers postponed south side of State St. for the benefit of those meeting Sunday eve at the brick yard be- who live on the second floor." cause a Garfield meeting was being held at "Attention is called to 'pig-hole' ditch the same place." 1878 on the south side of State St.; also to the broken eggs, straw, broken dishes, papers, "Miss Julia Matkins will commence public school rags, etc. which are constantly accummulat- teaching a select school in the ing. Town officials, please take action." 1878 house May 5, 1879."

Ruins Caused By Fire

Todd & Snell Store

Schaper Drug Store

Weinstein Store

—105— —

Archi- Remember the high school contests in Remember when the Rhine and to shool in a athletics, declamations, orations, etc.? All bald boys, west of town, came all the kids on the day out on the track and field, then at night big bob "sled and picked up all sunburned and tired, the crowd gathered way? 1896. in the Weaver Hall for the speeches! Real, Remember the sack lunches at noon on honest-to-goodness school spirit! days when the weather was too bad to go Remember skating on the old mill pond home as we usually did? Then there was a and the reservoir? full hour a. noon. The youngsters met in Remember the LaPearl Circus, Pullen little groups and exchanged a hard boiled shows, and the Kickapoo Indian Saginaw egg for cookies. No hot lunches then. 1896. Medicine shows in the Weaver's Hall; they Remember when H. C. Miller, his bro- played "Ten Nights in the Bar Room," "East ther, and the high school boys serenaded Lynn." etc.? many when Mr. Miller's brother was in Remember opening night at the Holmes town? 1896. Opera House with the box seats filled to see Remember how everyone ran out to see the "Rajah of Bong?" Bills for the "Rajah of those first autos when the unfamiliar honk Bong" were still pasted on the dressing room was heard? ran be- doors just a few years ago. Who remembers the creek that tween the Palace Theatre and the Hulbert Remember the basket ball games and Hardware, down Main St. and across the roller skating around the posts in Weaver's railroad? Hall? Remember the graduation exercises roads, wood side- Remember the muddy when each graduate gave an oration? How fences around all the yards, bustles, walks, interesting!! pompadours, chokers, high button shoes, sweeps on the dresses even in school? An Early Accident Remember when Albert Kroll blew his Now that the hoop skirt seems to be on horn when his bread was baked in the Snell its way back, we are reminded of a story told Bakery? by the late George N. Uzzell of his sad exper- ience with a pair of hoops. Mr. Uzzell had Remember the sound of the old school lady to church who was bell? What became of that old bell? escorted a young wearing hoops. They went on horseback as Remember the street sprinkler and the was customary in those days, and of course kids that followed on hot days? The hokey- all ladies rode a side saddle. pokey ice cream wagon? The scissors grind- On arriving at the church, the girl got ers and umbrella menders? Horse races out the hoops caught on the saddle horn and at the old race track? Chautaqua at Bone's couldn't dismount. The young man did his Grove where people camped for the week? best to help her but as she was a chunky sort Church socials in the homes? Open house on of girl, he could not lift her high enough to New Year's Day? Tramps from door to door unhook the hoop; so he did the only thing and they left their mark on the gate posts? possible, that is, he went around on the right Remember when the 7:40 p. m. train side of the horse, unbuckled the saddle girth from the west came in nightly all the and and, using it as a block and tackle, lowered boys girls yes, the & — and oldsters too the girl to the ground to the very great went to the depot, then to the Post Office? amusement of the entire congregation. Ap- Dates, fun!! chats, When the office closed at parently this incident broke up the romance, 6 p. m. every one thought the town was for he later married Miss Anna Battles who ruined! 1896. lived within walking distance of the church.

Who remembers the bench between "Mr. Alonzo Holmes is supremely blesf

trees in front of the Handshy home ( now the in the possession of a handsome bride. Pit Scheller auto repair shop ) ? Yes, and the well was married in Patoka to Miss Lilly H. at the side—another trysting place! 1896. Johnston of that city." 106— "5-HSiSSfc^ izxaS. O. H. Paddock Lumber Company

"Maggie Hartsock having completed a "Our city has recently procured and put Shurtleff College in Alton course in music at up new street lamps and has hired a man to is readv to teach piano and organ." Jan. keep them lighted and in proper order. How- 1889. Miss Emma Scales has a school in ever, the lights seldom burn so the tax payers Morrisonville." are objecting." 1878

J. Archibald

Livery Stable

N. Spruce St.

-107— <<^ ^ ^

Nokomis' First Fire Truck Hose Carts—Hand Pulled

"S. T. Striders observed their golden "Round trip excursion to St. Louis $2.25." wedding anniversary Oct., 1878." "Prairie House - J. S. Bone, proprietor, "Jacob Haller and Isaac G. Hubbard are Front St., north of depot." building new homes on their farms." 1878 "$8.00 round trip to Niagara."

Ready for a Sunday

Afternoon Drive

—108— \

i

Nokomis' Second Fire Truck

"A protest against the practice of some Officers of Nokomis H. S. literary soci- who leave church during the devotional ety: Hubert Manning, pres., Carl Schwartz, exercises. Very much out of place. Advice, v. pres.; Nellie Parker, sec; Grace Cole, treas. If you are not going to stay through the ser- Katie Strain, critic. 1887 vice, do not go in but stay out and save your "One of the best stories written from a credit and eood name." picture was handed in by Ida Travis - No. 6."

Charlie Kerr's Winton

Six Ready for the Parade

Gene Holmes

Gladys Best

Jaclyn Argo

Vera Holmes 1890, George Whitten and May 22, 1891 On January 7, Wells Tooley made an overland trip to Hills- J. Woltmann & Co. are making arrange- boro on skates. The distance is 18 mile and ments to begin work on their new brick their time was 2 hours 35 minutes. building by the first of June. The structure They expect to will be 30x90 and one story. In 1888 there were 165 log schools, 191 building as a chicken house. utilize their old stone, 1439 brick, 10,413 frame. Average salary, male-$52.93, female-$43.09. January 7, 1891 Roll of honor 208 out of Frank Yackle on Wed. moved his house- January 31, 1890, 353. ( to No- hold goods from this city Hillsboro ) komis, where he opened a boot and shoe March, 1890, Roll of honor 88 out of 359. repair shop. August 8, 1888 people of Nokomis will have to look The Until further notice the cider mill will long and searchingly before they will find a be in operation on Tuesday and Saturday honest or conscientious boy than Frank. more each week. experience in the busi- He has had long The mill is in excellent condition and will hope ness in which he now engages, and we do your work quickly and well. Cider for will give him a fair the people of Nokomis sale at 10c a gallon. share of their patronage. F. C. Bender.

January 12, 1891 September 12, 1890 The Post Office is now located in its new Postmaster Gelly has decided to erect a the Gelly build- and commodious quarters in fine two story brick building on the lot where ing, and is as neat and convenient as the Gibson Bros, formerly conducted their res- office public could wish. In fact there is no taurant. that will compare with it in the county. Post- The contract for erecting the building master Gelly certainly merits much credit has been awarded Mr. Thomas Triffet. from the public. The new quarters are well lighted and roomy. April 30, 1886 Nokomis boasts of two cornet bands (the "Mr. A Calihan celebrated Feb. 27, by members of one are of gentlemen, the other, the inviting in a few friends and neighbors, ladies , one glee club, and a string band, be- ) occasion being in gratitude for his release sides a well organized class in vocal music. from Libby Prison on Feb. 27, 1865." We can truly be termed a musical as well as a progressing city. March 18, 1891 1886 The pioneer party given last Wednesday May 21, of our merchants purchased a lot of night at Weaver's Hall is a pronounced event One and, in the afternoon of the season. The object of this gathering eggs one day last week chicks stepped forth was simply to promote socialability among of the same day, young the older people, and to have a good time in from them. general. November 12, 1886 In these respects the plan was a howling Three good houses and lots for sale at good cheer success, for jovial converse and $250.00 each. Rent for $4.00 a month (20$ predominated throughout the evening. on investment ) . A bargain for some one. The company was large and all did jus- 1886 tice to the supper when served. During the November 20, evening Mayor Randall was called upon for R. T. Court of Springfield, deputy head a speech. He happily responded by remark- consul of the Modern Woodman of America, ing that the various classes of society had had is in town with a view of organizing a camp. their turn on recent dates at similar social The Modern Woodman is a secret society and gatherings. at the same time a benefit fraternity.

-110- J. Fa Residence & Store—Corner E. Central & Spruce

Our attention has been called to the "M. E. Church 'talking up' a bell for violation of an ordinance relating to bathing their church. Got it in Nov. 1878. Put up in inside the corporated limits. It is probable Jan.. 1879." if the law on this question is not heeded, "W. E. Pennepacker was teacher at Oak someone will have the penaltv to pav." Mav, Grove in Sept., 1887." 1880. 20 oz. loaf of bread - 5c.

The Kull Grocery Store

—111- Old Mill and Feed Store

On The North Side

"A. F. Weaver, S. Denman, G. S. Upstone 1881 attended the G. A. R. encampment in Rock "B. F. Green - surgeon dentist." in Island." "Rents in Nokomis 1/3 higher than Restaurant placard: Plain Meals 20c St. Louis." Extra orders 25 & 30c; Ham and eggs 15c "Nokomis Orchestra gave dances in Luncheon 15c; Bread, Butter, Coffee 10c Weaver's Hall." Sandwiches 5c. "Local dramatic club gave 'Among the Ordinance 32 caused all saloons to close Breakers'. Music by Nokomis Orchestra." interest." Mondav, April 4, 1887. "Coal mine talk, but not much

J. Carstens & Son Elevator Nokomis Country Club

Ruins of Mr. John Carstens' Home Caused by Cyclone May 18, 1883

-113- ,

"Eligible bachelors in 1896: E. Frank June 20, 1890 task Draper, Dr. J. M. Sprinkle, Jesse S. Griffin, Prof. W. B. Davis has finished the Albert Rhoades, Benton Brown, H. O. Pinker- of enumerating the school district. The re- ton, Wm. McKown, N. B. Brophy, Henry sult of his work shows that there are 397 Schwartz, Wm. Shannon, Albert Spannagel, males and 412 females over 21 years of age, Harry Wilson, Robert Paddock, A. J. Eekhoff and 345 males and 342 females under 21 years Maro Ekey, Matt Stobbs." of age making a total of 1496 residing in the district. "Leap Year dance given by the Empire Of these there are 687 under 21 and 188 Club at Weaver's Hall." 1896 under 6 years making 499 of school age. There are 174 more persons in the dis- lights put in the "Mr. Hagee had electric trict than in the corporation of the town; this hotel May, 1896." (Present location of Stiehl deducted from 1496 would leave a population Funeral Home). for the town of 1,322 or a gain of nearly 32 M» percent in 10 years. "C. H. Kempton installed a soda foun- 1896." tain in his drug store May, John Strider was the first man buried in Nokomis cemetery. A child was buried be- "City Council removed the bridge on fore Mr. Strider. Mr. Strider is the grand- Maple St. near the Hagee House and put in a father of Mrs. Rutherford German in Ohl- tile." May, 1896. man and Mrs. C. M. Travis in Nokomis. "School Board asked for water mains to September 16, 1891 be extended to the school for fire protection." Cashier A. J. Williford was in Chicago 1896. this week for the purpose of ascertaining the plant for the town. A plant "Wheelmen's Club formed. 27 bicycles cost of an electric to furnish 6 arc lights for the street and 150 in front of Spannagel's store. The men rode incandescents will cost about $4,000. Repre- to Hillsboro, Taylorville, and Raymond. of some of the responsible firms Complaints came in that the riders didn't sentatives here in a few days for the purpose of observe rules of the road." 1896. will be inspecting the town, and a complete estimate "Croquet Club gave a strawberry festi- will then be furnished. val on J. L. Manning's lawn. Pullen's band November 25, 1891 played." 1896. Mr. Abe Bourquin has returned from bringing with Teachers hired: Horace Safford-Buckeye; the Fat Stock Show at Chicago his herd of Brown Wm. McNeil-Tester; John Sellers- Walker; him all the laurels for have beaten the John Sullivan-Card's Grove; Ernest Mallory- Swiss cattle. He claimed to from his herd for milk Brewner; Omar Webster - Young; Maggie record with one cow the ani- Marley-Avoca; Elisha Safford-Oak Grove; and butter. In the test of three days from which Fred Ernst-Starr; Myrtle Safford-Sherman. mal produced 245 lbs. of milk butter. With this test May, 1896. was made 9% lbs. of Mr. Bourquin has the distinction of owning School Library open from 2-3 o'clock the finest dairy stock in the United States. each day and every other Sat. Charles Rus- sell-librarian." 1896. "In a publication of this type, errors are unavoidable and are regretted; however, furnished music "Nokomis Drum Corps such errors of omission, commission, mis- at Litchfield, Decoration Day." 1896. spellings and oversights will be rectified and acknowledged in the bi-centennial edition "Mine talked up again—Dec, 1896." which will be published in 2056. Kindly con- "Good sewing machine to be exchanged tact the committee at that time." for a good cow." 1887 Book Committee —114— Back row: Agnes Carstens, May Van Hoosier, Fan Carstens Middle row: Lucy Frazier, Emma Van Hoosier, Henry Randall (director), Flo Handschy, Nell Randall Front row: Elizabeth Snell, Lou Whitmore, Laura Anderson

An early Nokomis parade

with Holmes Opera House

in right foreground and

Weaver's Hall right back-

ground.

-115— »iiii!imiin!iiriiiiiiiiif[

Presbyterian Ladies' Aid Society

Front row: Mesdames May Davy, Gardner Stokes, Miss Mercy Riddler, Mesdames John M. Shoemaker, Rob't. Gelly, Sena Sawyer, Wilson, Gray, Rich Robinson, Wm. Archibald, M. Quick, Ulrici, Mary Hutton, Chas. Best, W. B. Evans. Back row: Mesdames Carl Weakley, Christina Collier, Fred Law, Frank Schaper, John Baisch, Nellie Riddler Bryce, Mattie Upstone McClure. Chambers, Barkley, Miss Jennie Safford, Mesdames Albert Bess, Jennie Todd, Dora Law Crumbaugh, John Garrisine.

Clerks In Day & Upstone

Store — 1879

Back row: Gus Bullock, John Upchurch, H. V. Bul- lock, Mr. Williamson Middle row: George Scha- per, John Aichison, Henry Runge, N. C. Freeman, Lafe Sawyer Front row: Sim Welch, Mary Day, G. S. Upstone, J. H. Day

—llfr- —

Tin- Sphinx Cluh

The "Black Six

Back row: Grace Cole, Dora Crumbaugh, Nettie Kerr

Front row: Lillian Span- nagel, Lora Nims, Ollie Pul- len

"The pink lunch given last Wednesday 33rd Annual Mongomerv Fair, Sept., evening by the Ladies' Band, at the Com- 13-16. 1887. mercial House, was well attended and was a "Fast horses at the racing park, April success in every way." 1879."

"29 Postoffices in Montgomery Co. "Many people froze to death. 26 degrees Litchfield, largest, then Hillsboro, then No- below zero - plenty ice for lemonade next komis." 1887. summer." 1887

Baptist S. S. Class

Edna Hancock. Lulu Kerr.

Mary Hill, Lucy Kerr, Anna

Gipson. Nellie Hiett, Minnie

Wilson, Lulu Gage Wagon and Blacksmith Shop—1892

J. Brenner (above), F. Hoeppner, "Eddie" Pannwitt, F. J. Pannwitt, T. Yackle i*± II. S. Basketball Team

Won County Champion-

ship two successive years.

Went to State finals and

lost to Bloomington.

J. Ford, E. Meinzer, Mr.

Buellesfield (coach), H. Ar-

nold, C. Best. B. Zimmer-

man, A. Williford

H. S. Track Team

E. Brockman, J. Ford. H.

Arnold. M. Ford, J. Smith

Front row: B. Zimmer- man. R. Shackle, A. Willi- ford

H. S. Basketball Team

Won County Championship

C. Archibald. B. Zimmer-

man. K. Shackle, H. Busby,

E. Meinzer, H. Arnold, A.

Williford

-119— ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The Centennial Book Committee submit this book as a souvenir for the Nokomis Centennial.

The assistance of the following in its preparation is worthy of special acknowledgment:

Mary Archibald for her poem, "Song of the Nokomis Schools"

Meda Pennepacker Cassler for her poem, "Our Town's Centennial"

Charles Turzak for cover design and art work

Engravers: Capitol Engraving & Electrotype Co. Springfield. Illinois

Printers: Free Press-Progress, Nokomis, Illinois

All who bought space or sent in reminiscences, clippings and pictures.

—120—