199. Do You Have A Relative Here?

RCHS Blog Post Number 199. 

Do You Have A Relative Here?

Random names taken from the museum genealogy files.

____________

WAY / DIGGS (1907): Marriage Certificate from 1829

     While looking over some of his old papers, which had been filed away many years, W. R. Way came across the first marriage certificate of his father, Jesse Way, which is quite a unique document. The wedding of his father to Miss Fannie Diggs occurred at the old Dunkirk Church southwest of Winchester, in 1829.  In those early days it was necessary to have each one that witnessed the marriage ceremony sign their names on the certificate. The following names were signed, most of whom have passed away and will only be remembered by the older citizens of the county: John WRIGHT, Anna JACKSON, Martha OATON, Mary PUCKETT, William Way, Arnyla Diggs, Joseph Puckett, William BALLINGER, William Diggs, Tarlton MOORMAN, John Diggs, Jacob SMALL, Ann Diggs, Abigail Wright, Gincy Ballinger, Caroline Diggs, Lucy Diggs, James Wright, Jesse Moormam and Mahala Puckett.

____________

HOKE, Winchester, Ind. (June 3, 1912)

     There was a pathetic scene enacted in the Circuit Court when Miss Clara Hoke, daughter of Thomas Hoke of Union City, signed the papers giving her baby, Helen Hoke, to Mr. and Mrs. George M. WHETZEL. Back of the birth of the child is a story of pathos. Ignorant of the ways of the world, Miss Hoke was an easy victim to the father of her babe. Knowing she was to become a mother and having no one to whom to turn in her hour of distress, she was sent to the county infirmary and there on February 3 her baby was born. Reluctantly she signed the papers which took away from her all claims to her child. Tears filled her eyes as she did so and frequently she would have to wipe them away before she could finish writing her name.

____________

 MILLS (1950): Mill's Lake

     At Mill's Lake, near Farmland, the old home place of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Mills, a reunion of the families was held with Mrs. Dovie MOORMAN who lives in the old Mills house.  Mrs. Clarence HAWORTH was elected president of the group and Mrs. Moorman and Mrs. Alta Mills were elected as her assistants. Mrs. Garrett LOWERY furnished a large cake beautifully decorated with "Brothers and Sisters Reunion." Plans were made to have an annual get-together each year at the various homes.

____________

69th Indiana Volunteer Infantry (1862-1865): 

Randolph County, Indiana Deserters During the Civil War

    On February 13, 1863 at the Headquarters of the 69th I.V. I., near Young's Point, Louisiana, General Order No. 17 was issued listing the following soldiers from Randolph County as deserters from the regiment.

Co. C.  

WILLIAMS, Daniel, Winchester. Discharged as deserted. He did not leave Indiana with the                     regiment in 1862.

HOBBS, Clark, Winchester, Deserted. Returned to the regiment and was mustered out August                 23, 1865.

ENGLE, Calvin S., Recruit, Winchester. Deserted. He did not leave Indiana with the regiment                 in 1862.

BALES, Jacob, Winchester. Deserted. He did not leave Indiana with the regiment in 1862.

LASLEY, Mahlon, Winchester. Deserted. He did not leave Indiana with the regiment in 1862.

ABBOTT, Thomas, Winchester. Deliberately deserted from the transport on the Mississippi river at Millikin's Landing. This was the third time he has deserted. Each time he returned to the regiment and was mustered out Aug 23, 1865. He lost a finger at the battle of Richmond, Kentucky and was awarded a pension of $12 per month.

Co. D.

FLOOD, George, Randolph County. Deserted. He did not leave Indiana with the regiment in 1862.

Co. E.

CADWALADER, Thomas H., Lynn. Discharged March 1, Desertion.

MANN David, Lynn. Discharged March 1, 1863. Desertion.

LOCKE, Wm. F., Corporal, Lynn. Returned to regiment. Discharged April 29, 1863, wounds.

HARRIS, Nathan, Lynn. He did not leave Indiana with regiment in 1862.

LONGFELLOW, John B., Lynn. He did not leave Indiana with the regiment in 1862.

FISHER, John R., Lynn. Returned to regiment. Discharged April 7, 1862, disability.

BALDWIN, Albin, Lynn. Returned to regiment. Mustered out with regiment July 5, 1865.

BALES, Isaac, Lynn. Returned to regiment. Mustered out with regiment July 5, 1865.

BALES, Pleasant, Lynn. Returned to regiment. Mustered out with regiment July 5, 1865.

NEAL, Coats L., Lynn. Returned to regiment. Mustered out with regiment July 5, 1865.

HODGINS, Jesse, Lynn. Deliberately deserted from transport boat on the Mississippi River.

Co. F. 

BARNES, John, Arba. Discharged Feb. 6, 1863. Desertion.

SUTTON, George, Union City. Deliberately deserted from the train at Centralia, Ill.

  All soldiers of the 69th I. V. I. who return immediately to the regiment and produce satisfactory evidence of having been sick, will be restored to duty. All others will be sent for and compelled to suffer the penalty of their crime.

By order of Col. T. M. Bennett,

Oran Perry Adjt.

____________

Juvenile Court Records , Winchester Ind. (December 25th, 1913)

  To the Hon. James S. ENGLE, Judge of the Juvenile Court of Randolph County, Indiana. I beg leave to report the following cases taken up and investigated by me during the year 1913.  

J. M. FLETCHER, Probation Officer, Randolph County.

January 14.  I was called on to investigate the charges filed against James JESSUP and Nellie SARVER, charged with adultery. They were brought into court and adjudged guilty by the Court and placed in my care and custody. They were permitted to go with the understanding that the girl leave Winchester. I placed her on board the railroad cars and sent her to Ohio. On January 19 she returned to this city. I went to the home of Thomas GRAY, placed her under arrest and committed her to the county jail.

January 14.  I was called to the home of Mrs. Ed FARLOW near the county line south of Huntsville to investigate a case where Mrs. Farlow has three children and was reported to be living in adultery with a man. On investigation I could not find sufficient evidence to cause charges to be filed. The evidence showed that their sleeping apartments were separate and the man was working for Mrs. Farlow.

January 14.  I was called on to investigate a charge of forgery against Russell GOFF, age 14. On investigation I found he had forged a check on Goodrich Bros. and passed the same on Mr. HARBOUR. The following day I brought him into court and the court sent him to Plainfield. I put in four days time investigating the case, attending court and taking him to Plainfield.

January 17.  I was called on to investigate the case of Gail CLEVENGER being implicated in the forgery with Russell Goff and larceny of chickens from Dewit BROOKS. After making careful investigation of the case I found him to be guilty of both charges and recommend to the the court that he be committed to the Indiana School for Boys at Plainfield and later took him to that institution. I put in about three days time in his case.

January 18.  I was called to Union City to investigate a charge against Blanch SHELLENBARGER, age fifteen, charged with immorality and smoking cigarettes. The girl lives on the Indiana side of the State Line and the offence was committed on the Ohio side. After talking with the girl and her married sister she was permitted to go to Indianapolis with her sister.

January 22.  I was called to the home of Mrs. GETZ in Ward Twp. who was suffering with consumption and was in destitute circumstances with three small children. I found them without food of any kind except canned fruit. I supplied them with food and looked after their immediate wants. I called at their home five different times and looked after their wants. The names of the children are Lela, age thirteen, Gracie, age nine and Leslie, age five. The children were later placed under guardianship by the court.

January 29.  I was called to Jackson Township to investigate a charge against Joseph JOHNSON, age fourteen, on a charge of larceny and being incorrigible. He is the son of George JOHNSON. After carefully investigating the case, his mother agreed to look after the boy in the future. He was left in her care and custody with the understanding that she will report him for any disobedience

February 3.  I was called to Union City to investigate and look after an incorrigible boy by the name of Guy WILLIAMS, age 10. He refused to mind his Grand Mother and would stay away from home all day and out late of nights. I have called on him a number of times and he is getting along fine and Grand Mother reports him very obedient since I have taken him in charge.

February 11. I was called to the grocery store of Zora COX to investigate a larceny case that had been going on for some time and on this particular evening there had been a pair of nose glasses taken and I took into custody Henry SWEENEY, a boy 14 years of age, who admitted he had been stealing small articles from the grocery for some time. I took him to his home and his father agreed to take the boy and go back to Kentucky where they had came from. By agreement he was allowed to go and they have left the county.

February 15. I was called to investigate a case at the residence of Mrs. Nathan BUTTS, where some boys had thrown a rock through the large window in her door. After investigating the matter I found it was done by Sanford MONROE, Richard GOODHEW and Raymond GOODHEW, three boys whose parents are poor. On the agreement of the parents to replace glass, which they did, the boys were allowed to go with a reprimand from Mrs. Butts and myself.

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the website:  https://rchsmuseum.org

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.

198. Coffee 10 Cents, Jesse Horne, Hiatt Reunion Formed, Construction Wages, Jesse Way, Residence Street.

RCHS Blog Post Number 198. 

Coffee 10 Cents, Jesse Horne, Hiatt Reunion Formed, Construction Wages, Jesse Way, Residence Street

Coffee Raised Five Cents a Cup (1950) 

    The days of the "nickel fer a cuppa coffee" in Winchester have passed--at least temporarily.

  A check of nine Winchester restaurants revealed that five cent coffee has been a victim of the inflationary period along with five cent milk.

  All restaurants have increased coffee to cents a cup, with any additional cups of coffee, with a meal or otherwise, at five cents.

  This increase automatically raised the price of meals five cents. Cafes and restaurants which formerly charged 65 cents for a noon lunch now will list the price on the menu at 70 cents.

  Some increases also went into effect on sandwiches, although the raise was not general. A few restaurants now will charge 30 cents for a ham sandwich instead of 25 cents.

  According to a spokesman for the restaurant operators, they were not "eager to raise the price of coffee, but--"

  For decades coffee has sold in restaurants for five cents a cup. Ten years ago we paid 23 cents a pound for one of the most popular brands of coffee. Now we pay 77 cents a pound.

  "Coffee cream was 12 cents a quart. Now it is 39 cents. Sugar was less than 4 cents a pound. Now it is 11 cents.

  "According  to a bulletin published several months ago by the state association, it costs the average restaurant operator seven cents to serve a cup of coffee."

  Several Winchester cafes and restaurants reported customers leaving "definitely angry," and many refused to pay the additional five cents.

  One place reported that the first three customers of the day cancelled their orders and left when notified of the increase in the price of coffee.

  "Most people are taking it okay," one manager said, but there has been some confusion. Possibly we should have notified the public ahead of time."

  One New York City writer, in an article published when the price was elevated in that city, worded it this way: "It proves one point. You can jump the price of clothing sky high, butter can reach $1 a pound and appliances can carry price tags in the upper income bracket. People won't complain too much."

  "But don't fool with their nickel cuppa coffee."

______________________

Diggs and Way Marriage Certificate (1907)

     While looking some of his old papers which had been filed away many years, W. R. WAY came across the first marriage certificate of his father, Jesse Way, which is quite an unique document. The wedding of his father to Miss Fannie DIGGS occurred at the old Dunkirk church southwest of Winchester, in 1829, which was seventy-eight years ago.

     In those early days it was necessary to have each one that witnessed the marriage ceremony sign their names on the certificate. The following names were signed, most of whom have passed away and will only be remembered by the older citizens of the county: John WRIGHT, Anna JACKSON, Martha OATON, Mary PUCKETT, Isom Puckett, William Way, Arnyla Diggs, Joseph Puckett, William BALLINGER, William Diggs, Tarlton MOORMAN, John Diggs, Jacob SMALL, Ann Diggs, Abigail Wright, Gincy Ballinger, Caroline Diggs, Matthew Way, Mary Diggs, Lucy Diggs, James Wright, Jesse Moorman and Mahala Puckett.

______________________

Chess Playing Jesse Horne of Lynn (1953)   

     The title of "Squire" could never be handed to a more worthy person than Jesse HORNE of Lynn. Jesse is a judge, philosopher, sportsman raconteur and all around fine gentleman. Not only is he proud of his home town but he enjoys acting as a personal member of the Chamber of Commerce whenever it is possible to let others in outlying communities know what a fine place Lynn is.

     Jesse is quite active in the Masonic lodge of Lynn. He is secretary for the lodge, a post held for a decade, and is also a past master. His activities in association with other lodges helps spread the good fellowship for Lynn and the Lynn lodge. He is the "goodwill ambassador" for the community.

     His favorite pastime is chess playing and, we might add, he is ranked as one of the state's best. He plays a lot of correspondence chess and by doing so, communicates with many of the nation's best chess players.

    He, over the period of years, has played with the editor of the Chess Review, and beat him, the winner of the Indiana chess tournament and did quite well, as well as several of the better players in the United States.

     One can usually find him each morning, sitting at his chess table, planning moves for possibly five various games he is playing with people in Walla Walla, Wash., or possibly New York City.

     Last weekend, Jesse went to Logansport to enter the state chess contest. He, there, had a chance to meet some of the men and women whom he has played by correspondence over the past years. It not only gives him a chance to meet them but also gives him a chance to match wits over the chess board with them. Although he did not win the tournament, he made a fine showing.

     His one proud accomplishment stemming from the tourney was the fact that he taught this years winner, Roger OREN of Muncie, how to play chess. Mr Oren is Jesse's son-in-law.

     A story on Jesse would be nothing without mention of his pipe. This straight stemmed briar is as famous as the one General Mac sported during the war.

     One never sees Jesse without his pipe. If he is in a restricted smoking zone, it is still present, just unlit.  His chess playing would be nothing if the pipe were not present. It is as we said to start, the "Squire" of Lynn has all the qualifications to uphold his title.

     The morning chess, the evening visitations to other communities, his always present good nature and his ever present pipe.

______________________

Telephone Company Switchboard (1897)

     The new switch board for the telephone company was placed in position April 24. As soon as lightening arresters arrive,several more phones will be placed in operation. Thus far, 105 Winchester homes have been connected. The new switch board will take care of 150 phones.

______________________

Hiatt Reunion at Goodrich Park (1937)

     At the Hiatt reunion at Goodrich Park the following article was read. As it was written 35 years ago, in all possibility it will be of interest to descendants and friends of this locality, therefore, with this thought in mind, the article is herewith reprinted:

     The 1902 Hiatt Reunion Association.  A few days ago Jesse HIATT, who lives one-half mile east of Olive Branch thought that he would invite his brothers and sisters with their children and grandchildren to come and spend a day at his home. These verbal invitations soon extended in a verbal way to the Hiatt family and as a result about one hundred people came to his home to spend the day. The usual good dinner was spread in the grove, but, of course, on this occasion, it being prepared by the Hiatt ladies, surpassed in goodness any other attempts on similar occasions. Why, they say that even Ellis McNEES, of Farmland actually ate all that he wanted and Mrs. E. R. Hiatt, of Winchester found an over abundance of scraps and bones in her dinner basket when she reached home.

     "All be it, an exceedingly pleasant day was spent, so pleasant that at its close it was the unanimous opinion of those present that a permanent organization should be formed and a more general invitation sent out, that the Hiatts and their kin might come together at least once a year to tell each other of their joys and successes in life.

     "Under the permanent organizations Eli Hiatt, of Farmland, was chosen president and James G. STANLEY of Ridgeville, secretary and treasurer and Saturday, Sept. 6, 1903, the day for all persons, who have Hiatt blood coursing in their veins, to meet at Lakeside Park in Ridgeville in their first annual reunion of the Hiatt family.

______________________

Bootblacks Association of Winchester (1902)

     The Bootblacks Association of Winchester met as a body on January 20 in the basement barber shop on the north side of the square (100 W. Washington St.) and unanimously agreed to raise the price of shining shoes from 5 cents to 10, for the reason that the price of liquid polish, shining wax and rubbing cloths have advanced. Signed: "Deacon" FOUSE, Jr., John SEGRAVES, Cleave RYAN, John SMITH, Thomas FALLS and Evert FIELDS.

______________________

The First County Fair in 1852 (1929)  

     The first county fair was held on October 14 and 15, 1852, just a short distance north of the Judge Colgrove brick house, northwest of Winchester. Owing to the fact that so much gambling predominated, it folded up in 1905.

______________________

Union Home Construction Workers Hourly Wages (1950) 

     Average hourly wages paid to union home construction workers is $2.32. Bricklayers $2.86, Painters $2.30, Electricians $2.60, Plumbers $2.63, Plasterers $2.85, Carpenters $2.40, Laborers $1.57.

______________________

Bowling Alley in Winchester (1937)   

     Announcement was made that a bowling alley in Winchester would be opened to the public for play. It is located over the Magee hardware store on the north side of the square.

     Proprietor of the four lanes is Carl "Molly" MIES, whom many sports fans will remember as quite a baseball player. Molly, as he says his friends call him, operates an ally at Decatur.

______________________

The First Automobile in Winchester (1901)  

     Quite a few of our citizens were on the lookout on July 7, 1901, for word had reached this city that a party from Richmond was to drive up to our town to take in a game of ball. Such event marked the appearance of the first automobile in Winchester.

______________________

Old Residence Street Poem (1928)  

     The poem "Old Residence Street" by Charles "Crack" ARBAUGH, a portion of which is quoted, will give you an insight as to some of our citizens who lived along its shady environment in the years of the long ago.

RESIDENCE STREET

"Old Friends, the EDGERS, the JAQUAS and WATTS,

The FRAZES, the STAKEBAKES--you'd nearly forgot;

The GUTHEILS, the GOODRICHES and DIGGS, too

My folks and me; your folks and you

The BOWENS, McALISTERS, WATSONS and WELLS--

Oh, how on their faces my memory dwells;

And a great many more ere my list is complete--

Oh the dandy old neighbors on Residence Street,

"Tis hard to forget--to remember is pain;

When we know those joys will ne'er come again,

But I hope some day--someone I will meet

Once again those neighbors on Residence Street."

______________________

New Winchester City Building (1903) 

     The new city building which was erected on West Franklin Street, cost $21,000. It has a basement and to the rear of the first floor, stalls have been instituted for the horses. Rooms on the second floor are to be occupied by city officials and the building custodian. Dave MARTIN was appointed as fire chief, with a salary of $40 a month and granted the privilege of living in the building. Lem STUDY and Guy WAY are the two other firemen.

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the website:  https://rchsmuseum.org

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.

197. Miler's Club, Prefix "Y", Golf, Stores, People

RCHS Blog Post Number 197. 

Miler's Club, Prefix "Y", Golf, Stores, People 

______________________

1903.   It would be well for drivers of wagons to remember that all United States mail carriers have the right of way when on duty. They can not be driven into ditches by heavy loaded wagons without violation of the United States mail law, and if a collision is made by so doing and the mail delayed it will not be long thereafter until a deputy United States marshal will be looking for certain parties who will answer to roll call at the Indianapolis prison. This law applies not only when meeting a vehicle but applies to those in front of the mail as well, when the mail makes an effort to pass.

______________________

1939.   If all the cars in Randolph county were put end to end, 90 per cent of the drivers would pull out to pass the car ahead.

______________________

1942.   The Miler's club, an organization of members of Goodrich Park swimming classes who have been able to swim one mile, held their initial meeting at the home of Mrs. Paul BAKER. 

  Anne JAQUA, was elected president, Marilyn SIMPSON was chosen vice-president and Joanna MACK was named secretary. Bobby PAINTER and Marilyn Simpson form the membership committee.

  Charter members present were Anne Jaqua, Marilyn Simpson, Judy Baker, Jean RALLS, Barbara RENEGAR, Sara LUDY, Joanna Mack, Bobby Painter, Richard Baker, Alice LITTLE, Charles Ludy, Susan WATTERS, Katherine MONTANA of Union City and Elizabeth BUCKINGHAM of Indianapolis.

  Mrs. George Jaqua and Mrs. Francis Simpson also were present.

  ______________________

1903.   The latest and most unique manner in which dead bodies can be sent to their destination has been announced by third assistant postmaster general Madden. Heretofore, when relatives wished to ship the remains of their dear ones to some far off place if they were not well fixed financially it was almost an impossibility. Now the post office department has come to the rescue by making a ruling to the effect that cremated bodies can be sent through the mails and are to be recognized as regular merchandise. The rate of postage on this class of mail is one cent for each four ounces. As a result of this ruling four air tight tin canisters containing the remains of a family shipped from New York to San Francisco, were forwarded from Washington post office, where they had been held up pending a determination of the postage rates for the funeral journey.

______________________

1943.    Mr. and Mrs. Ora STUDY have taken over the management of the Home Hotel at 226 West Washington Street and have reopened it after a lapse of several years. (The Home Hotel was where the liquor store is 2020.)

______________________

1937, July.   Sand for the sand ring at the Goodrich park swimming pool in Winchester was being filled in yesterday and Mayor John CLARK announced that one car load of sand would arrive every day until the ring is completely filled. Nine car loads of sand are required to fill the six foot wide ring that completely circles the pool.

  Six city employees have been working on the uncompleted pool the past week and considerable progress has been made. Equipment will be set this week, water will be turned in and the chlorinator started as soon as engineers from Chicago arrive to supervise the work.

______________________

1950.   The prefix "Y" on  the 1950 auto license plates issued at Winchester, Farmland and Union City, says Manager Dick SLAUGHTER, is the result of Randolph county's number in the bureau of motor vehicles in Indianapolis. In other words, when you see a "Y" on a plate it means the license was issued in Randolph county. YX means out of the Winchester branch, YY out of Union City and YZ out of Farmland.

______________________

1917.  The Post Office, situated on N. Main street in the W. D. KIZER block, has been moved to the new Dennis KELLEY building,  NW corner of Washington and Meridian streets (Haines, today). E. S. EDGER is the present Postmaster.

______________________

1934.  Roy BEACHLER opens his filling station and bicycle repair shop at 120 East Washington street. (Our Pizza House 2020.)

______________________

1946.   When this boy Jack HOWELL went over the goal line yesterday for Winchester's first touchdown in 50 years (no football here for five decades) no opponent could have possibly got to him. He was surrounded by ten team mates, and they all went over with him.

______________________

1915.   A. F. SALA has sold his drug store at 114 West Washington street to H. R. CROSS, formerly of Indianapolis and Chicago. Mr. Cross has had several years experience in the drug business.

  Mr. Cross has taken possession and Mr. Sala is undecided as to his future.

______________________

1949.   The Courtesy Cafe, formerly the Main Cafe at 102 North Main street, will be open for business soon. Redecorated and remodeled, it will be under the new ownership and management of Mrs. James (Ann) NANCE, who was in charge of the Beeson club house dining room for two years and manager of the Rainbow cafe three years.

  Mrs. Nance will cater to parties, banquets and club meetings after weekday 7 p.m. closing hour. There is a glycol vapor spray for health. Employees are Ruth HITCHENS, cook, Lucille KELLY, Janie (SANDIFAR) HUTCHENS, Mary Alice NANCE, Patty HELMS and Maxine SOULE.

______________________

1986.   The Stone Mansion Inn Restaurant, Orange and South Meridian street, is open with Chef Richard RIGGS formerly at the Indianapolis Airport Hilton. A few items from the menu: Seashells Neptune, scallops, crab and shrimp in a sherry cream sauce $11.95; New York Strip Steak, broiled plain or with bearmaine sauce, $11.95; Pork Chops Cumberland, stuffed with sage dressing covered with cumberland sauce $11.50; Veal Oscar, sauteed veal medallions topped with crabmeat, asparagus spears and hollandaise sauce $15.95; Chicken Oriental, marinated chicken breast with chinese mushrooms, snow peas and radish sprouts $10.50.

______________________

1914.   John MICHAELS is planning a meat and grocery store at the corner of Short and Union street. (Maora's grocery was here later.)

______________________

1934.   Wilbur MEEKS of Union City, is the manager of the new Bunsold's I.G.A. grocery store which will be opened on the south side of the square at 109 West Franklin.

______________________

1937, July.   One need no longer travel 20 or 30 miles to enjoy a game of golf. The beautifully constructed Beeson park golf course is now in fairly good playable condition.

  The city council and park board have decided to open the course to the public in order that many may enjoy the pleasure of the royal and ancient game at home this season. The course is like any new course necessarily would be in it's early life.

  The greens are in very good condition and it is promised that in a few weeks they will be as fine as any greens in this part of Indiana. The fairways are not in the best of condition but every effort is being made to put them in condition as rapidly as possible.

  Anyone desiring to play the new course may do so by paying a daily green fee of 25 cents. A season ticket may also be purchased for $10. which will give one the privilege of playing the remainder of the year at anytime. The Beeson park board desires that as many as possible take advantage of this season ticket offer. The green fees and season tickets may be purchased from Francis SIMPSON.

______________________

1913.   "The Sons of Veterans" have placed their large cannon, "Old 44", on the cement base erected in the southwest corner of the court house square.

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the cemetery database.  https://rchsmuseum.org

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.

196. Fugate, Tisor, Way, Diggs, Woodard, Smith, Sumwalt, Ullom, Slack, Puckett.

1903.   A Winchester Herald man dropped in at J. G. FUGATE's store at Rural, Randolph county one day and for the short time there was most pleasantly entertained by Mr. Fugate and Dr. W. R. TISOR, who also happened in at the same time, and presented us with a petition to raise funds to have their church repainted, which needs it badly. Of course, we put down.

  Mr. Fugate has a store that well causes the citizens of Rural and surrounding country to feel proud, as it is most convenient for them to be able to buy near home the necessities of life and that they are sure when buying of Mr. Fugate that they will get value received for produce or money.

  Mr. Fugate has a most comfortable home for his store which he has lately been improving by papering and painting the entire interior. The Herald wishes Mr. Fugate a continuance of success as he has had in the past. He has a general store at which almost everything needed at home can be obtained.

_____

1907.   While looking over some of his old papers, which had been filed away many years, W. R. WAY came across the first marriage certificate of his father, Jesse Way, which is quite an unique document. The wedding of his father to Miss Fannie DIGGS occurred at the old Dunkirk church southwest of Winchester, in 1829, which was seventy-eight years ago.

  In those early days it was necessary to have each one that witnessed the marriage ceremony sign their names on the certificate. The following names were signed, most of whom have passed away and will only be remembered by the older citizens of the county: John WRIGHT, Anna JACKSON, Martha OATON, Mary PUCKETT, Isom Puckett, William Way, Aryla Diggs, Joseph Puckett, William BALLINGER, William Diggs, Tarlton MOORMAN, John Diggs, Jacob SMALL, Ann Diggs, Abigail Wright, Gincy Ballinger, Caroline Diggs, Matthew Way, Mary Diggs, Lucy Diggs, James Wright, Jesse Moorman and Mahala Puckett.

_____

1907.   Wanted. Your stumps and stones. I will clear your farm for you. I sell the best dynamite made for 15 cents a pound and do the work for $8.00 per hundred pounds. 18 years experience. J.S. WOODARD, Farmland, Indiana.

_____

1907.   Huron H. SMITH of the 1902 class of the Winchester High School has recently been elected by the Board of Trustees of the Marshal Fields Museum of Chicago, to a fine position in connection with the work carried on by that institution.

   The curator of that institution on his way to the Bahama Islands, recently stopped at Cornell University, where Huron has been a student and assistant professor in botany for nearly two years, and before leaving assured him that he would be recommended for the position he has received and that it would open up to him a wide field of usefulness.

  The work accomplished by him in the schools here enabled him to complete the work with credit to himself and to his alma mater, DePauw University, in three years.

_____

1915.   County Clerk Gard issued a marriage license to Charles SUMWALT, 20, farmer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Sumwalt, Randolph county and Miss Edna Opal ULLOM, 19, housekeeper, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob A. Ullom, Randolph county.

_____

1907.   On last Friday Mrs. John SLACK, of Buena Vista, presented to her daughters, Mrs. Chester PUCKETT and Mrs. James Puckett and son, Frank Slack, all residing in that neighborhood, each with one hundred dollars. Mrs. Slack had been contemplating for several days what to present them with and she finally reached the conclusion that money would suit them better than anything else. Uncle John will remember their children later with suitable parchment papers, with blanks all filled in satisfactory to each.

_____

_____

195. Misc. From The Old Newspapers: Divorces. Weddings, Obits, Bankrupticies, etc.

.   

1915. Bankrupt, BROWNE.   From a notice posted in local papers.  In the matter of James. M. Browne, Voluntary Bankrupt, Cause No. 4,117.

  To the creditors of James M. Browne, voluntary bankrupt, of Winchester, Randolph County, State of Indiana:

  You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 16th day of July, A.D. 1915, James M. Browne was duly adjudged a bankrupt and the first meeting of his creditors will be held at the office Focht & Hutchens, attorneys-at-law, Winchester, Indiana, at one o'clock p.m., at which time the creditors may attend, prove their claim, examine the bankrupt, appoint a trustee and transact such other business as may properly come before such meeting.   Harry C. FREEMAN, Referee in Bankruptcy, Frankfort, Indiana.      From the Winchester Herald, July 28, 1915:  We were sorry to learn of the misfortune of our fellow townsman, J. M. Browne who has filed in the United States court a petition in bankruptcy, giving his liabilities as $4,500 and assets at $3,800. Business depression is given as a cause of the failure. Mr. Browne has been engaged in the painting, paper hanging and decorating business for years. The petition will be heard the latter part of the month.   Winchester Herald.

_____

1907. POLLY Daughter Burns.   Florence, the pretty little four-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Polly, was burned to death at her home in South Salem, a little village four miles south of Union City.

  About 9 o'clock Polly drove up from the field and called to his wife to come and open the gate. The mother at once answered the summons, leaving her little girl in the kitchen. She remained out only a few minutes, but when she re-entered the kitchen she found her little one lying on the floor near the stove, a blackened and inert heap, while hungry flames were still burning where small patches of clothing had not yet been consumed, all clothing having been burned off her body with the exception of her shoes. The child lived an hour, when the angel of death mercifully released her from her agonizing suffering.

  It seems that during the mother's absence the little girl secured a baking powder can, half filled with coal oil, which it poured into the kitchen stove with the inevitable result.

_____

1955.   RACES   Unionport Speedway   Time Trials 12 O'clock   Races 2:30 P.M.   PARACHUTE JUMP By MILO TIMMONS   Admission, Adults 75 Cents   Children Under 12 Free.

_____

1915, ROBERTS Divorce.   In the divorce suit of Gaynelle Roberts vs. Paul Roberts, both of Winchester, the court found that the complaint of the plaintiff was true and a divorce ought to be granted. Cora WALLON, mother of the plaintiff, was a suitable person to have the custody of the infant child, Pauline Frances Robert, as neither of the parties hereto are suitable persons. The defendant is to pay $1.50 per week on each Thursday for the maintenance of the child.   Winchester Herald.

_____

1963.   A seven-year-old Winchester girl was slightly injured when she was struck by an auto at the intersection of High and East streets.

  Jackie WYNN, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Grover Wynn of 644 High Street, was treated by her family physician for knee and hip bruises after the accident. The driver of the auto, Randy T. BOWMER, Jr., Winchester, was not held.

  Police Chief Allen THARP said that the child, a Baker student, was on her way, with two other girls, to a Brownie Scout meeting.

_____

1915, Lynn, HINSHAW.   Miss Gladys LISENHY, 25, of Columbus, Ohio, was restored to members of her mother's family, who for more than twenty years had lost trace of her and labored under the belief that she was dead. The girl was born in a small Arkansas town and as her parents died during infancy, she was reared by friends of her parents in her native town.

  Several years ago she went to Columbus, where she has been earning her living. Several weeks ago, while investigating the contents of an old trunk of her mother's, which she had brought with her from the South, she found a small Bible, on the fly leaf of which was written her mother's maiden name, "Lizzie Hinshaw," and beneath the name were the words, "Earlham College."

  Miss Lisenhy believed this might lead to a clew which would give her the address of her mother's relatives. She wrote to a Richmond Indiana newspaper and to the superintendent of the police, telling of her desire. The letters were published and were read by many persons who had known the Hinshaw family intimately.

  It developed that the girl's mother was the daughter of Tinias Hinshaw, a prominent Quaker Randolph county, who lived near Lynn. He is dead, but several members of his family still live there.

  A permanent home with relatives at Lynn was offered the girl. Miss Lisenhy reached Richmond and her relatives who are here attending the yearly meeting of Friends and she will return with them to Lynn to live.   From an unknown Richmond newspaper, posted in the Winchester Herald.

_____

1959. Quick-Draw Kills Wife.   A 24-year-old wife and mother of four children, was fatally shot by her husband at the couple's home on Kem Street in Ridgeville, about 2:15 p.m., Nov. 4th.

  The shooting occurred during a game of "fast-draw." The husband, Robert Lincoln WOOTERS, 29, said when he admitted to investigating officers that he forgot he had loaded the .22 caliber revolver.

  Wooters said that he and his wife had been playing "fast-draw." She had a toy cap pistol and he had the empty .22 revolver. Later, he said, he loaded the gun to shoot at some birds in the backyard, and when they resumed the game he forgot the gun was still loaded.

  The bullet hit an artery near her heart and she was dead on arrival at the Randolph County Hospital in Winchester.

  Wooters is employed at the Overmyer Mould Co. in Winchester, which is now on strike. He was made a prisoner in the county jail to await outcome of the investigation by a grand jury.

  Survivors include the four children, Doris Marlena, Karen Lynn, Rickey Lee and Roberta; her parents, Mrs. Helen LONG, Richmond; Charles HUSTON, Union City; three sisters, Mrs. Margaret WOLFOL and Virgie PERRIN, both of Richmond, and Phyllis LEWIS, Colorado Springs, and the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Ida ALEXANDER, Spartanburg.   The grand jury charged him with involuntary manslaughter, but I haven't found what the outcome was.

_____

  

1907. Randolph Hotel Sold.   The Randolph, at the corner of W. Franklin and S. Meridian streets, one of the finest and best known hotels in eastern Indiana, was sold at public auction. The building was erected at an approximate cost of $40,000 and was bid in for $13,975. Seth D.COATS, president of the Randolph County Bank was the buyer.

  The citizens of Winchester subscribed for stock to the amount of $25,000 when the project was started in 1903, and the balance of the money was raised by mortgage.;

  The sale was made to pay off the mortgage held by the Randolph County Bank and the proceeds will just about do this. The stockholders will lose their money.

  The hotel was occupied for over two years by E. E. FLEMING, of Niles, Michigan, but has been vacant since last August.

  Just what the future of the building will be has not been publicly stated but as the structure is one of the best and most convenient of its kind in the state it is hoped that a suitable tenant may be found for it, as the Randolph is too fine a hostlery to remain closed.

_____

1919. Spanish Influenza.   One hundred and thirty-two Spanish Flu patients were visited by Miss Dorothy ROWE, the nurse employed by the Red Cross, to take charge of the influenza situation in Randolph county. Her work extended over a period of three weeks, including visits to patients in Union City, in the rural districts of the county and in Winchester.

  The committee appointed by Mayor Chenoweth consisted of the City Board of Health and Charities, J.M. "Buck" FLETCHER, city marshal; Charles PUCKETT, Deputy Sheriff and Joseph C. GARD, chairman of the committee. The committee worked diligently night and day, receiving help and encouragement from the entire community. The Federation of Clubs supplied linens, bed clothes etc. Various citizens of the community supplied food and raiment and much good was accomplished as a result. Many of our good citizens volunteered their services in the homes where they were needed most and it is the consensus of opinion that several lives were saved as a result.

  The Finance Committee by popular subscription, secured ample funds to take care of immediate need and there remains in their hands a fund for future emergencies.

_____

1955. Junior Harlem Globetrotters Win At Youth Center.   A new junior basketball champion was crowned at the Winchester Youth Center as the junior Globetrotters downed a good Hot-Shot team, 28 to 22, in the final game.

  In order to get to the final contest the Globetrotters downed the Hot-Shots in the first game of the double elimination tournament, 31 to 21. The Globies then had to dispose of the Eagles. This apparently wasn't too hard as the champions won, 71-19.

  The Hot-Shots, in order to gain a birth in the final contest, had to go the opposite direction of the Globies. The next game for the runner-ups was the All-Stars, in which they did, winning 19-12. After winning this game, the Hot-Shots tangled with the Eagles, but again came out on top, 17-12, in order to gain the final birth.

  The champion Globetrotters team members are - Dale MARTIN, Noel EDWARDS, Kent HECKLEY, Bill HALL, Mike FLINN, Larry WINKLE and Jimmy STUDY.

  The All-Star Team: Dale Martin, Lowell WINNINGHAM, Butch TUCKER, Mike Flinn, Bill Hall.

  Honorable Mention: Dave HENDERSON, Homer JONES, Bob BAILEY,  Dick BRADBURRY and Butch GOODHEW.

  Dale Martin, other than being voted to the All-Star team, was captain of the Globetrotters, and scored the most points of the tournament. He tossed in an average of 30 markers per contest to get his grand total of 90 points.

  Below is the final run down of the scoring of the tournament.

 

SCORING RECORD

Dale Martin 90, Lowell Winningham 37, Butch Tucker 24, Homer Jones 21, Bill Hall 18, Mike Flinn 15, Dave Henderson 10, John GIBBONS 10, Jim Keister 10, Butch Goodhew 8, Bo Larry Winkle 0, W. Smb SMITH 5, Joe JARRETT 5, B. THARP 5, Andy PUTERBAUGH 5, T. HOLLIDAY 4, Dick BASTIAN 4, Dick Bradburry 4, Kent Heckley 3, Dave LOWE 3, Jack WOOLF 2, Noel EDWARDS 2, Bob Bailey, Travis MAYFIELD 0, Larry Winkle 0, W. SMEDLEY 0, Shane FISHER 0, Steve RECTOR 0, Jimmy Study 00.

_____

1907. FRAZE Obit.   Mrs. William Fraze, an aged and well known citizen of Saratoga died at her home of heart trouble. She had been ailing for a number of years and during the last few months had been in an extremely critical condition.

  Mrs. Fraze, whose maiden name was Nancy GREEN, was born in Ohio, but came to Randolph county at an early age. She was nearly 77 years old and leaves a husband, eight children, three brothers and one sister to mourn her departure. The children are; Alonzo, Benjamin, Ollie, Milo, Carl and Mrs. Joseph COLE. all in or around Saratoga; Samuel, of Geneva and Mrs. Shaney of Hartford City. Her brothers and sister are; David Green, of Winchester; William Green  and Mrs. Jane ANDERSON, south of Winchester and Benjamin Green of Lynn.

  The funeral services were held at the U. B. church in Saratoga, Rev. Pontius officiating. Internment was made at the Odd Fellows cemetery.

_____

 

b

194. Early Theatre In Winchester

 April 1907.  Luther DAY opened his new theatre, The Arcade, on West Washington street last Thursday and notwithstanding the inclement weather, large and appreciative audiences attended until a late hour. Nearly everyone that attended the Electric Theatre on Meridian street also took in the performance at the new theatre.
  The bill for the first night was one of the best films ever seen in Winchester and the audience was kept in a continuous uproar. The "Wig Chase" and the other two features were very good. The illustrated song was the same as that at the Electric Theatre, but a change will be made in this respect and hereafter everything will be different. The Vaudette on Main street is also a busy place every evening. With three moving picture theatres and a penny arcade, the people of Winchester need have no complaint for some place to go.
(The "Arcade," was located at 122 W. Washington, next to Magee's Hardware store. It was also a two story brick, with apartments and office rooms on the second floor. It was torn down in the late 60's to make room for an expansion of the Randolph County Bank building. The "Electric Theatre" mentioned was at 117 N. Meridian, gone also and now Merchants Bank parking lot. The "Vaudette" was at 113 N. Main.  mh)
_____


September 1903.  The popular Magee & Ward's Opera House will have a strong attraction in "a Romance of Coon Hollow," which appears here tonight. A Strong card is the favorite little actress Ruby ERWOOD. The play will have an elegant and entirely new scenic production with a select cast and as added features, a quartette in songs of the South and a troupe of plantation dancers of unusual merit. There will be a score of people in the cast. The comedy is entering upon its tenth season of success, which is the greatest testimonial to its merits that can be given.
(The Magee & Ward Opera House was in the 2 story brick at 120 West Washington St. The building was owned by Charlie MAGEE who had his hardware store in the first floor room and the opera house was on the second floor. This was a long, high ceilinged room with the stage at the north end along with the dressing rooms. There was seating for 200 people and at this time, tickets were 25 and 50 cents. The building is gone now, being torn down to make room for a bank expansion.  mh)
_____


October 1903.  A fairly good crowd witnessed "A Montana Outlaw" at the Opera House Monday night and judging from the frequent applause, the performance gave satisfaction. This play is exciting from start to finish and all through there was a great deal of fun that kept the audience in a continuous uproar. The plot was in Montana and was extremely thrilling. Mr. W. A. Clarke, who played the part of "Jack, The Buster," is certainly a star in his profession. Every member in the company was good. The company carries a band and an orchestra.
  On next Monday night the Who, What, When minstrels will appear at the Opera House. The company is probably the most amusing, musical, original, magnificent minstrel combination that has ever visited this city. This is an all-white company with half a hundred people that travel in their own cars and giving a performance that is fairly overwhelming all competitors.
 The order at the Opera House was commendable as to what it has been most of the time heretofore. The way that order has been carried on at most of the shows by whistling, yelling etc., where there was no necessity for it has been disgraceful and should not be permitted for a moment. Applause is all right in the right place, but there should be a limit. We are informed by the management of the Opera House that there will be order hereafter or there will be some arrests and everyone knows that Mr. Magee means business when he says that, so look out in the future.
_____


December 1907.   A complete judge of high grade entertainments which instruct more than they amuse will be more than satisfied with the film to be run at the Arcade Theatre. "Making A Modern Newspaper" is the title of the film. It shows how a great metropolitan newspaper is made from the start to the time it is in the hands of the reader. Included in this program is another very instructive picture entitled "The Wood Industry In Norway." :Only A Soldier Bay" is the title of the illustrated song.
  The film at the Arcade Theatre entitled "The Clockmaker"s Secret" pleased everyone.
  "The Real Widow Brown" at the Opera House was the best play seen in this city this season. Everybody was well pleased.
_____

August 1934.  The Cozy Theatre will be moved within the next two weeks to a new location in the Odd Fellows building on North Main St, the room formerly occupied by the Winchester Bowling Alley.

  This room will be completely remodeled for showroom purposes. The front will be changed and an overhead entrance protection will be constructed. Remodeling has started and the new Cozy will be opened in approximately 30 days.
  W. H. BRENNER, proprietor, announces that the new theatre will be operated under a policy similar to the one now in affect at the Cozy.
_____

October 1934.  The Cozy Theatre was opened in it's new location on North Main st. to a capacity audience. This room, formerly occupied by the Winchester Bowling Alley, has been remodeled and constructed into one of the best and most comfortable smaller motion picture houses in this district. The proprietors, Mr. and Mrs. William BRENNER, will continue to operate the business on their same policy. They have been engaged in the theatre business in Winchester for 16 years. They first opened the Cozy in the Kelly building, later operated the Arcade in the room now occupied by PERKIN's Shoe Store on West Washington st., but finally dismantled the Arcade and continued with the Cozy.  (The Kelly block is now Haine's Hallmark store. The Arcade was at 122 W. Washington and had only penny game machines at that time. The building is gone now.  mh)

_____

March 31, 1939.  Purchase of the Cozy Theatre from William H. BRENNER by Theatrical Managers Inc., owner and operator of the Lyric theatre, was announced by V. U. YOUNG, of Gary, president of the organization which owns several show houses in Indiana.
  Saturday will be the last day of management for Mr. Brenner, one of eastern Indiana's pioneer theatre men.

  It was announced that Theatrical Managers Inc. will put in a new front at the Cozy, redecorate the interior and install new and improved sound and projection equipment. Booking arrangements have been made whereby the latest pictures will be shown at both the Lyric and Cozy theatres as soon as in other key cities in this section of the state.

 Fred DOUGHTY, manager of the Lyric, will also manage and operate the Cozy it was announced. Local persons will be employed wherever possible.

  For 20 years, Mr. Brenner has been interested in the theatre field in Winchester, coming to this city from Rensselear. First location of the Cozy under Mr. Brenner's ownership was in the Kelly block, where now is located the By-Lo Furniture store.

  Shortly after coming here he acquired the Arcade theatre and operated it along with the Cozy in the location now occupied by the Gary PERKINS shoe store. Ten years ago, the Arcade was closed. The Cozy has been in its present location about four years.

  Asked as to his future plans, Mr. Brenner said he would devote most of his time to the Randolph Poster Advertisig company, of which he is the owner.

_____

193. Articles From The Museum Newspaper Collection. 2

Articles From The Museum Newspaper Collection

1897. 123 years ago.   A Modern Winchester Home.  Doctor A.F. HUDDLESTON is fixing the Lasley property at 230 South East St. which he recently purchased of Theodore SHOCKNEY in about as neat and convenient a manner as can be imagined. He has repapered and repaired the residence which is very commodious and conveniently arranged. In it is all of the modern conveniences, electric light, heat supplied by a furnace, bath and toilet room and a fine water supply forced from the flowing well, just east of the creek, by a hydraulic ram, making as complete a water service as any resident of a metropolis is blessed with. In addition to these conveniences and comforts a speaking tube runs from the Doctor's bed room up stairs to the front door, thus relieving him the necessity of going down stairs to answer night calls.
  He has recently built on the premises a large new barn which is also fitted with all of the late conveniences known to modern mechanics. The grain is all stored in bins in the loft, but chutes from the bins to the first floor necessitates no stair climbing. By an arrangement in one corner of the barn the vehicles can all be cleaned in doors. The electric light and water service is fitted therein. He has also built a neat two story office on the southwest corner of his lot, 119 E. South St.,which is also fitted with electric lights and water. The reception area is a large room in front with a consultation room and an operating room in the rear. In the operating is the latest modeled operating table and a case of the latest improved surgical instruments. In the consultation room is a medicine case, which though very small, is so systematically arranged as to be able to contain a fair sized drug store. The rooms are handsomely carpeted and furnished. The planning and execution of all these conveniences and comforts has taken time and money but the Doctor and his family can be proud of them. The family have moved to their new home, where they are at home to their numerous friends. (The house, barn and office, located on the NW corner of S. East and East South Streets are gone now, torn down before the new jail was built.  mh)
_____


1923, 9/27. 97 years ago.   Klan Meeting At Funk's lake.  The Journal-Herald is informed that extensive preparations are being made for a big Ku Klux Klan meeting to be held at Funk's Park and Speedway, Saturday, September 29. Invitations have been sent to Klansmen throughout Indiana and surrounding states to attend the meeting.
  Detailed plans for handling the big crowd expected are being perfected. Extensive arrangements for feeding the people have been made with fraternal orders, the eating places at the Park and the restaurants in town so that no one need go hungry. Parking places for those who will come in automobiles have been provided and Klansmen will be stationed at all incoming points to direct people to the Park and parking places. Reduced fares on steam and traction roads have been secured and those who come on those roads will have their comforts looked after. Those who arrive the night before will find accommodations on the Park grounds. The grounds will be placarded so that Klansmen and visitors will know where to go for the various exercises.
  Prominent speakers of the organization will be present to explain the plans and purposes of the Order.
  This meeting promises to bring a big crowd to Winchester from this and other states. Many of these visitors will be prominent and representative citizens from their respective communities and we predict that every citizen of Winchester, whether he believes in the Klan or not will extend every courtesy possible to Klansmen and their visitors.


1923. KKK Rally adv.   Ku Klux Klan Grand Picnic Celebration,  Winchester, Indiana  Randolph County  Funk's Park And Speedway  Saturday, September 29  All Day And All Night  Breakfast, Dinner and Supper served on the grounds.  Largest Public Celebration ever held in Eastern Indiana.  Noted State And National Speakers  Mammouth PARADE Moves Promptly at 7:30 P.M.  The entire Klan Review In Fireworks. Center of Speedway at 9:30 p.m.  Aeroplane Displays, Music, Eats and Amusements of All Kinds.  BANDS, DRUM CORPS, QUARTETTES  All roads from Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and Indiana lead to Winchester on Saturday, September 29.  Don't forget the time and place.  RANDOLPH COUNTY KLAN, KNIGHTS OF THE KU KLUX KLAN.


1923, 10/4.  The meeting of the Ku Klux Klan at Funk's Lake last Saturday, while not as large as throughout the day as had been expected, was greatly augmented at night. The day was spent in speechmaking, those in attendance being addressed by men who are prominent in the Order. Many of the members brought their families and had picnic dinners in the Park.
  In the evening a procession of Klansmen in regalia formed at the Lake and marched into Winchester and paraded in the streets.
  No disturbance of any kind either at the Lake or during the parade has been reported. From all accounts everything passed off quietly.
  A mystery connected with the meeting was the disappearance of the Organizer for Randolph County, H. H. Huddelson, whose whereabouts has been unknown since about 6:30 Saturday evening. The following from Newcastle, Mr. Huddleston's home, in the Muncie Star, relates to the matter:  Newcastle, Indiana, October 2-- Howard Huddleston, 30, of this city, an organizer for the Ku Klux Klan, has been missing from Winchester, Indiana, since last Saturday afternoon, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Huddleston and Klan officials here have been notified. No reason has been assigned for his disappearance and foul play or suicide is feared by relatives here.
  Huddleston has been in Winchester since last April working for the Klan, and last Saturday a demonstration was held at Funk's Lake. The afternoon crowd was a disappointment and Klan officials there told local officials that Huddleston acted discouraged. He failed to show up for the night meeting and a country wide search was conducted for him Saturday night. He was last seen enroute from the Lake into Winchester in his automobile. His clothing was found yesterday at the hotel there where he stayed.
  It was stated his accounts were in excellent condition and that a bank account in Winchester was still intact. His father said Huddleston had appeared very nervous of late and he believes he suffered a breakdown.
_____

1882. 138 years ago.  The name of the new station on the I B & W Railroad, at the Washington and West River Township line will be called "Browne," in honor of General Tom BROWNE. M.V.R. WEAVER has erected a two story business house there, 20 x 40 feet, and will put in, within a few days, a general stock of dry goods, groceries, hats, caps boots and shoes, notions etc. An effort will be made to establish a post office at the station to be called Browne.
_____


1897. 123 years ago.  Telephone Service.  The Winchester Telephone is now in complete operation giving service to 104 phones, counting the Union City toll line, which is connected to forty phones in that city. It is a plant that the city can well be proud of, being complete and modern; the phones and switch board are of the best makes and all phones have return circuits, two wires. They are so general in use as to be practical and very useful, saving much time and annoyance. The services so far by the new operators has been very satisfactory, and will no doubt continue so. The Fockler Bros., who owned the original plant, placed all the new lines and finishings in position can well be proud of their work. Frank FOCKLER, who with the assistance of his estimable wife, has been running the plant, have moved to Union City to look after the plant there, which he and his brother still own. Their transactions in this city were perfectly satisfactory and will no doubt be the same in Union City.
  The Company here have room on the switch board for nearly fifty more phones and say now is the time to subscribe for a share of stock. By a rule which has recently been adopted, Sunday service will be until 8:45 a.m. and from 3 to 4 o'clock p.m.
_____


1952. 68 years ago.  Morton School Custodian, Mr. CODDINGTON, Stricken.  Loring Coddington, 59, custodian of the Morton grade school, is reported in critical condition at the Randolph County hospital where he was taken after being found in an unconscious condition in the school's basement boiler room.
  Reportedly he suffered a cerebral hemorrhage sometime during the night.
  Due to Mr. Coddington's apparent night long unconsciousness, there was no heat at the Morton building and school was dismissed by Principal James Yarling an authorization of Supt. Dale Braun.
  School convened at the regular time in the afternoon after the fire had been re-started by Pete WOODS, high school building custodian sent over for the emergency.
  Mr. Coddington was found about 6:30 o'clock by Frank QUINN, who like Mr. and Mrs. Coddington lives at the home of Mrs. Charles LEWIS, 125 Railroad Ave.
  Her husband had gone to the Morton school about 3: p.m. Sunday to check on the building and the heating system. It was not uncommon for him to stay late on Sundays and he often missed his Sunday evening meal.
  When he failed to return later in the evening, Mrs. Coddington assumed he must be having trouble with the boiler or that he had stopped along the way to talk to friends.
  The members of the household retired rather early and it was not until about 5:30 o'clock that Mrs. Coddington noticed that her husband had not returned. She then asked Mr. Quinn to look for him or his car, Quinn find the machine at the school and the light on in the basement.
  Entering the building, Quinn found Mr. Coddington unconscious on the boiler room floor.

  Mr. Coddington dies:  Loring R. Coddington, 59, custodian at the Morton school in Winchester, passed away Feb. 8, 1952 at the Randolph County hospital.
  A Randolph county native, Mr. Coddington was born August 4, 1892, the son of David and Della (BAIRD) Coddington. He resided at 125 Railroad Avenue. The deceased had been custodian at Morton for the past 11 years and prior to that was employed at the Ed Bailey grocery.
  Survivors include the widow, Vera; a son, Charles Robert at home; a sister, Mrs. Garnet PETERS; a brother, Vergie of rural route, Greensfork; the stepmother, Mrs Ola Coddington of Portland.
_____


1887. 133 years ago.  The Bee Line passenger train due in Winchester last Saturday afternoon, ran over Durant SMITH, an old and well known citizen, killing him instantly and mangling his body beyond description. Coroner Carter was notified and at once repaired to the place, about two miles east of town. He gathered up the mangled parts as best he could, they being scattered along the tracks for about two hundred yards. The head was smashed to a jelly, both legs and arms and the body were torn and mangled so that there was scarcely a resemblance to humanity left. At the inquest, it was shown that the deceased was on his way from his son, A.J. Smith's house to Coble's blacksmith shop to get some work done. The engineer and fireman of the train testified that when they saw him he was lying down on a cattle guard and they supposed it was a turkey or something of the kind until too late to stop the train as it bore down on him. This is all that is known positively, but the supposition is that while crossing the cattle guard he fell through, and having, to some extent, lost the use of his lower limbs, was unable to get out, had exhausted his strength and was unable to rise up to signal the train and could only watch as it came on him.
  Durant Smith was past his eightieth year. He was born in North Carolina and was married there to Elizabeth KEYS, with whom he lived fifty-three years, her death having occurred about three years ago. He moved to this county in 1832, and has lived here ever since. He was the father of twelve children, ten of whom are living.
_____


1923, Dec. 97 years ago. Sinning At The Mill's Lake And Funk's Lake Dance Halls.   For some time the moral conscience of the law abiding citizens of Randolph county has been stirred by the immoral conduct and disregard for the Sabbath day by a certain element of society within the county.
  In order to safeguard the morals of the people and to preserve the spirit of the Sabbath day, an organization was formed with the purpose of assisting the officers in enforcing the law. This organization is known as the Randolph County Vigilant Committee, with one central committee and chairman in each of the twelve townships.
  The chief offences have occurred at Mill's Lake where dances with paid admission are held every Sunday night and at Funk's Lake where dances of like
 sinful character are held and also where on last September the management made bold to use the Sabbath day for auto racing on a large scale. This being the first offence of its kind in the state, as far as we can learn would appear to be the opening wedge for Sabbath desecration in a much larger degree in the future.
  Early last spring after securing legal advice the Committee went before the people of the county for funds to bring these cases into court and carry them through to completion. A sum of $500 was asked for and generously given.
  A reliable detective was placed on the grounds of one of these places to secure evidence for use in court. On twelve visits, evidence on bootlegging, drinking and immoral conduct was secured. In carrying out his work he also made twenty-one arrests for bootlegging and intoxication where the offenders were brought into court and prosecuted.
  After a later and more thorough investigation into the law effecting these cases it was the consensus of opinion that they are being operated in violation of the law and contrary to the spirit of the American Sabbath, but are very difficult to stop under present conditions due to the fact that our Sunday laws were made for the people of the past generation and do not have a sufficient penalty to force the larger concerns on the present day to respect them. We were advised that we probably could get judgement at the hands of the court, but that the maximum penalty of $10 could be paid following each arrest without stopping the operation of the concern.
  In light of these facts, the committee did not think it wise to take the time of the court and spend the people's money without accomplishing its purpose. Therefore they have taken the only course left open, namely, the placing of a new Sunday law on the statute books on the state bearing a penalty large enough to force its recognition.

More Mill's Lake Sinning, 1924, Jan.   Muncie, Indiana.  After Judge Clarence W. DEARTH, of the Delaware Circuit Court, had denounced from the bench the park and dance hall known as Mill's Lake in Randolph county, and had asserted that one case of juvenile delinquency after another in Delaware county was directly attributable to the influence of the resort, he asked Van L. OGLE, prosecuting attorney, to request the authorities of Randolph county to close the place under the provisions of the nuisance law.
  Judge Dearth's denunciation came in the progress of the trial of two boys who admitted stealing an automobile in Muncie that they might take two young girls to Mill's Lake.
"We have had 140 wards in the juvenile court since I became judge a little more than a year ago and most of the girls have said they traced their troubles to the Mill's Lake dance hall," said Judge Dearth. "They bought liquor there and committed deeds of shame. If that place were in Delaware county it would be wiped out of existence by the grand jury. That is what I think of Mill's Lake. The dances there have caused our county more trouble than anything else. I don't know why the Randolph county authorities allow such a thing to exist."
  Ogle said he would take up the matter with the authorities of the adjoining county. Mill's Lake is a resort for eastern Indiana persons in the summer time and the dances there are popular in winter. The lake is a small body of water surrounded by wooded shores and is about four miles from Winchester. In summer it is a favorite spot for picnic parties. It is contended by some of those who attended the Mill's Lake dances that most of the trouble there has been caused by liquor brought from Muncie in automobiles by young men and women of this city.
_____

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the cemetery database.  https://rchsmuseum.org/cemeteries-database

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.

188. Randolph County And The Spanish Influenza Epidemic 1918-19. Part 2.

October 16, 1918.  STATE-WIDE BAN Has Been issued In An Effort To Check The Spread Of The Disease In Indiana. First Time In History Of State That It Has Been Entirely Affected By Epidemic.
  Because of the rapid spread of the Spanish Influenza in Indiana, an order prohibiting all public gatherings in the state until midnight October 20 was issued by the state board of health at its regular quarterly session in the State House.
  That date was arbitrarily set by the board that the peak of the epidemic will have been passed by that time. An extension of the ban, however will be ordered if conditions do not improve by that time.
  The stringent order which takes the place of the emergency order issued by the office of the health board today will apply to every section of Indiana, whether the disease has made its appearance or not. By "public gathering, churches, theaters, schools, political meetings and any other kind of meeting open to the public, whether in a building or in the open air, are included. In addition to the closing order the health board adopted regulations for the operation of all street cars and interurban cars in the state. The order did not necessarily apply to pool rooms and like places. Local officials may interpret that gatherings at poolrooms, bowling alleys, dry beer saloons and clubs for instance, are public gatherings and may order them closed.
  A rule was adopted by the board forcing all soda fountains, hotels, restaurants and eating houses in the state to sterilize all cups, glasses, forks, knives and spoons used by customers.
_____

October 16, 1918.  Sixty Cases In Wayne, Jackson Townships And Union City.  County Health Officer Dr. G. REYNARD informed the Union City Times this noon that there were sixty cases of Spanish Influenza in Wayne and Jackson Townships and Union City reported to him and that he was of the opinion that there were a great many other cases in the city which had not been reported by their attending physician.
  Dr. Reynard ordered all the pool rooms closed in Winchester and Union City yesterday to remain closed until after the epidemic is over which effects the Lyons, Gruber and Coleman pool rooms in this city and Doc IRVIN's and Ed LENKENSDOFER's halls in Winchester. He said he had just got a report from the physicians of Winchester who say there is not one case of Spanish Influenza in that city while one case is reported at Modoc.
  Dr. Herbert DETRICK, who is the city Secretary of the Board of Health started out this afternoon to place quarantine cards on all residences over our city that have Spanish Influenza in them. Six new cases were reported this morning, one of which is very serious, being a seven months old baby.
_____

October 22, 1918.  There has been much agitation going around our city the past few days over the ban placed by the State Board of Health on keeping down of the Spanish Influenza epidemic that is prevalent over the state. Locally we don't think there is any reason why we should get excited for while there are no doubt a great many cases of the old fashioned grippe, yet we don't believe there is a single case of Spanish Influenza in this city, and we don't want any, we have always contended that Union City is the most healthful and best place in the country to live in, and we see no reason now for changing our opinion of fifty-two years residence in the same. If you have a cold, consult a physician at once is the advice of the Times.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Dr. J. N. HURTY, secretary of the state Board of Health announced that the statewide ban on all public gatherings will be extended from the original day set for the termination of the closing order.
  Dr. Hurty said the length of the extension period will depend entirely upon the nature of the reports received from county health commissioners over the state. He said that from the present outlook the extension would be at least five days and not more than ten.
  The extension, like the original closing order, will take in all public gatherings, including churches, schools, theatres and all other public meetings.
  The total number of new cases reported to the state office was 2,688, the largest number reported in a single day since the emergency order was sent out October 7.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Dr. Louis PINT, former state bacteriologist and at present connected with the research laboratory of the University of Chicago says that he has succeeded in isolating the germs responsible for the present Spanish Influenza epidemic and the regulation diphtheria antitoxin is an absolute specific for the disease.
  He said the epidemic was mainly caused by the present war diet and especially by the curtailment of the usual consumption of sugar. Dr. Pint said that he had treated seventy five cases with the diphtheria antitoxin without the loss of a single case.  (Another cure that proved to be useless.  mh)
_____

October 23, 1918.  Methodist ministers of this city have passed a resolution asking the Board of Health to close the saloons as well as the churches and the schools. They contend that the saloon is the place where men congregate in large numbers and that they drink out of the same glasses.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Some Things We Do Know about The Spanish Influenza.  Physicians say that the influenza need not be feared if we do not become too fearful of it and if we take responsible precautions against it. Every cold you now contract, every headache you have, every sudden rise in temperature, every sneeze, every cough and every feeling of chillness is not a sign that you have the disease. If that were true there would scarcely be a man, woman or child out of bed in the course of a week. But if you imagine one or more of these symptoms constitutes the dread disease, maybe it will. On the other hand, any of these may give rise to the suspicion, but only the bare suspicion, mind you, that you are approaching influenza and so call for your taking treatment immediately to ward off the possibility.
  Physicians have not succeeded in isolating the germ but they have figured out reasonably well the things that are conducive to its propagation and to the spread of the disease. Crowds are the worst. One victim of the disease sneezing in a company of people is said to have infected about one-fourth of the whole number. Therefore if you sneeze, use your handkerchief in order that you may not spread the disease even though you may not be unfortunate enough to contract it.
  And the physicians have come to believe the germ may be carried on the clothing or about the person of those who may not themselves be infected but who may have come in contact with influenza victims. Therefore if you have been around an influenza victim do not come in contact with well persons while wearing the same clothes that you had on when about the sick.
  By all means get as much fresh air and sunlight as possible and at night have your windows wide open. For that matter fresh air and sunlight are the deadliest foes of all germs and when you get into the habit of relying upon them as germicides you are not likely to need others.
  Keep your body in good condition. Good resistance to disease is nine-tenths of the battle before it is fought and all of the battle while it is being waged.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Scott HOCKINSMITH, son-in-law of Noah RICKERT, died last night at his home about seven miles northwest of Union City, of the Spanish flu, after about a week's illness. He leaves a wife and four small children.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Spanish Influenza - What It Is And How It Should Be Treated.  Nothing new - simply the old Grip or la Grippe that was epidemic in 1889-90, only then it came from Russia by way of France and this time by way of Spain.
  Go to bed and stay quiet, take a laxative, eat plenty of nourishing food, keep up your strength, Nature is the only cure. Always call a doctor. No occasion to panic.
  Spanish influenza, which appeared in Spain in May, has all the appearances of grip, or la grippe, which has swept over the world in numerous epidemics as far back as history runs. Hippocrates refers to an epidemic in 412 B.C., which is regarded by many to have been influenza. Every century has had its attacks. Beginning with 1831this country has had five epidemics, the last in 1889-90.
  There is no occasion for panic. Influenza itself has a very low percentage of fatalities, not over one death out of every 400 cases, according to the Board of Health. The chief danger lies in complications arising, attacking principally patients in a rundown condition, those who don't go to bed soon enough or those who get up too early.
  Grip, or influenza as it is now called, usually begins with a chill followed by aching, feverishness and sometimes nausea and dizziness and a general feeling of weakness and depression. The temperature is from 100 to 104 and the fever usually lasts from three to five days. The germs attack the mucous membrane or lining of the air passages, nose throat and bronchial tubes; there is usually a hard cough, especially bad at night; oftentimes a sore throat or tonsillitis and frequently all the appearances of a severe head cold.
  Go to bed at the first symptoms, not only for your sake, but to avoid spreading the disease to others, take a purgative, eat plenty of nourishing food, remain perfectly quiet and don't worry. Quinine, aspirin or Dover's Powders etc., may be administered by the physician's directions to relieve the aching. But there is no cure or specific treatment for influenza, the disease must run it's course. Nature herself will throw off the attack if only you keep your strength. The chief danger lies in the complications which may arise. Influenza so weakens the bodily resistance that there is danger of pneumonia or bronchitis developing and sometimes inflammation of the middle ear or heart affections. For these reasons it is very important that the patient remain in bed until his strength returns. Stay in bed at least two days or more after the fever has left you, or if you are over 50 or not strong, stay in bed four days or more according to the severity of the attack.
  Evidence seems to prove that this is a germ disease spread principally by human contact, chiefly through coughing, sneezing or spitting while talking. So avoid persons having colds, which means avoiding crowds, common drinking cups, roller towels etc. Keep up your bodily strength by plenty of exercise in the open air and eating good food.
_____

October 23, 1918.  Mrs. Ava GLUNT-GUNCKEL A Victim of the Spanish Influenza.  Cruel death removed a young mother and devoted wife from her family when Mrs. Ava Glunt-Gunckel, wife of Earl Gunckel of Union City, was called away after only a very short sickness and her death, which was caused by the dread Spanish Influenza, was a great shock to the community.
  Mrs. Gunckel, who was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Glunt, was a graduate of the Union City, Ind. High School and a popular member of the class of 1903.
  She is survived by her husband and two young sons, Charles Boyd and Robert who is also down sick with the disease.
_____

October 30, 1918.  Orders to eliminate immediately the manufacture of all fancy trimmed and split panel varieties of coffins and to be prepared to supply coffins uncovered or unfinished, if emergency demands, have been issued to all coffin manufacturers in view of the great demand for coffins for victims of the Spanish Influenza epidemic. The order, distributed by telegraph , directs manufacturers to confine their product to the most simple types until further orders. The order was received in Indianapolis by the Indianapolis and National Casket companies.
_____

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the cemetery database.  https://rchsmuseum.org/cemeteries-database

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.

189. Articles From The Museum Newspaper Collection.

The Soldiers And Sailors Monument On The Courthouse Square.

  James MOORMAN, better known as "Uncle Jimmie," listed in item 27 of his last will and testament as follows: "I give, devise and bequeath, in memory of the sacrifices and sufferings of the men who served in the Union Army from Randolph County, the sum of two thousand dollars to John W. MACY, William W. Macy and Joseph R. JACKSON as trustees of said sum, said sum to be invested in a monument of such design and character as they may select and may be placed in the east part of the Public Square of Randolph County, Indians, on which the court house id located.
  From this nucleus of an idea has sprung Indiana's second largest monument.
  Uncle Jimmie, a devout Quaker, came to Winchester in 1860 and started what was known as the "Old Winchester Bank." Because of his shrewd business ability, he became in his time a very wealthy man.
  He was 66 years old when the war broke out. Being a Quaker he was supposed to be a "conscientious objector" but those who knew him believed he would have volunteered for the North had he been a younger man.
  Now that the two thousand dollars was there, some legal action must take place to have a monument. John W. Macy, joint senator in the Indiana State Legislature, proposed a measure which would enable county commissioners to appropriate up to $25,000 for the purpose of erecting monuments to the Civil War soldiers and sailors.
  After the bill passed, a group of ex-soldiers presented petitions signed by 3,914 voters and taxpayers requesting such an appropriation from the commissioners. They obliged so on the 20th of March, 1889.
  After a carefully selected advisory committee had been chosen, the contract for the foundation of the memorial was let to Luther L. Moorman for $2,579. A hole 27 feet square and 6 feet deep was dug and filled with broken Bedford limestone and cement.
  Next bids were submitted for the actual monument.  A. A. McKAIN of Indianapolis was the successful bidder. Work was started in the summer of 1890 but completion was held up until the committee could decide what figure should be placed at the top. McKain had decided to use a figure calculated to represent the ancient war god, Mars at rest. The committee objected to this as well as that of a negro clad only in a loin cloth and armed with a spear. Someone came up with the idea of just using an ordinary soldier armed with the good old Stars and Stripes. All approved this figure and McKain was permitted to continue.
  The work was completed in the spring of 1892 and the monument was turned over to the Commissioners to become county property.
  The day set for the unveiling was to be a gala event. A letter asking Gov. Ira O. CHASE to be principal speaker was sent. Ex-Governor Isaac P. Gray was also invited to speak but he failed even to answer the invitation. A telegram was sent. He then answered that he would not be here.
  In spite of all these reversals a program got underway at ten o'clock on the twenty first of July. Capt. WRIGHT and his famed artillery company stood with bared heads while I. P. WATTS delivered the invocation.
  After the morning ceremonies were completed an interim hour was spent by the multitudes in feasting, either at picnic tables, restaurants or at food stands which had been erected to help the hungry crowds.
  Immediately after lunch, a large retinue of veterans, accompanied by hundreds of enthusiastic citizens marched to the depot where they met Gov. Chase and marched him back through the gaily decorated street to the speakers stand, where the dedication ceremonies were resumed.
  Promptly at 1:30 the bugle sounded assembly and the people at once jammed the east side of the square. Band music opened the exercises followed by invocation delivered by Rev. Dr. Spellman of Winchester, former chaplain of the 101st Indiana. A choir composed of 75 children sang "America" under the direction of Prof. Samuel WILLIAMS, after which the address of welcome was given by Capt. A. O. MARSH, Master of Ceremonies.
  The ritual of the Grand Army of Republic was used in the unveiling ceremony. The ceremony was most impressive and drew thunderous applause from the crowds as each separate figure of the structure was brought to view. The band played the National Anthem as "Old Glory" was hauled to the peak of the flagstaff. Upon individual commands, William CHAPMAN removed the flag which covered the figure representing the Navy, Isaac SIPE unveiled the Cavalryman, S. O. FOX unveiled the Artilleryman and Oliver M. MILLS removed the flag from the Infantryman.
  Governor Ira Chase was presented by Capt. A. O. Marsh and he gave an address of a congratulatory nature. He complimented the people of the county upon their patriotism. And so we have the story of the monument.
Monument Statistics:
Cost of Monument...….$23,000.
Foundation...……$2,659.
      Total...…… $26,659.

James Moorman Bequest   $2,000.
Cost to County       $23,659.

  The foundation and lower part of the monument is constructed of Oolitic limestone, while the upper portions are of solid Barre granite from Vermont. The lower section of the structure represents a fort with sixteen bronze cannons, 4 to the side. The figure representing the four branches of military service are each six feet, six inches in height. The monument is 67 feet high to the top of the granite shaft. The bronze frieze which encircles the shaft and bears bas reliefs of battle and military life scenes is six feet wide and twenty four feet long.
_____

Rural Free Mail Delivery.

  Rural mail delivery service has been established in Randolph County to begin December 15, 1903 as follows:
CARLOS, route 29, population served 860, Elmer E, COGGSHELL carrier, J. E. IVESON substitute.
CRETE, route 34, length of route twenty three mile, population served 590, Ephriam B. ANDERSON carrier, Perry M. TAYLOR substitute.
FARMLAND, additional service, route 19, length of route twenty four miles, population served 550, Charles T, SNYDER carrier, David H. MORRIS substitute.
LYNN, additional service, route 31, length of route twenty five miles, population served 400, James BASCOM carrier, John H. PORTER substitute.
PARKER, additional service, route 20, population served 295, Wm. G. MOULTON carrier, Charles C. MOULTON substitute.
RIDGEVILLE, additional service, routes 12 and 15, population served 1,294, John COLLETT and Benjamin F. ARMSTRONG carriers.
UNION CITY, additional service, route 42, length of route twenty two miles, population served 645, Willard H. SMITH carrier, Claude H. SMITH substitute.
MODOC, Albert C. SWAIN carrier.
WINCHESTER, additional service, routes 8, 9, 10 and 11, length ninety one miles, population served 1,995, William D. REMMEL, Christopher C. PEELLE, William G. BATCHELOR and William F. WATSON carriers.

ADVICE TO RURAL ROUTE PATRONS.

1. Don't ask your carrier to wait while you address a letter or write a postal card. When you do, you ask him to disobey the law.
2. Don't have your wagon or other vehicles stand by the mail box so the carrier is compelled to get out to place the mail in the box.
3.Don't pile lumber, gas pipes, ladders or other long articles across the fence so the ends stick out past the mail box.
4. Don't put your mail box in an obstructed place, so that the carrier must drive across ditches, against fences and mud holes to get to it.
5. Don't drive up to your neighbor's mail box and tie your horse, so the carrier can not get to the box.
6. Don't have the flag up when there is no mail to be taken out.
7. Do not put mail in the box without raising the flag. If the carrier has no mail for you, he is not expected to go to the box unless there is mail to get out.
8. Don't drop money loose in the box. The law says you must wrap it.
  If you put a letter and pennies in the box, wrap them together, so the carrier does not have to pull off his mittens and fish around in the box for them. Some real cold morning drop five or six pennies in the box, stay out until your fingers get real cold, then go to the box and fish for the pennies yourself and see how your carrier fares, but remember he cannot go in and warm when his hands get cold. He must be patient and pick pennies out of boxes all day while patrons sit close by their stoves and feel thankful that they are not rural carriers.   Winchester Journal, Nov., 1903.
_____

Winchester Bus Station.  

The Bus Terminal and News Stand, operated by Roy BUSICK, will move from its present location on S. Meridian and Franklin St., to a new office at 208 South Main St., on the west side of the block south of the public square. The new location was formerly the Peacock Insurance Agency office. Also operating from this office as it did from the former bus station, will be the Railway Express Service. January, 1961.
_____

Maxville Church.

  Within the next few weeks the future of the Maxville church, formerly called Macksville, east of Farmland, will be decided. It's past has been recorded during the years that the church has stood and within its walls are many memories for its former congregations as well as neighbors and former residents of the community who are now living far and near.
  The present structure has stood for only 49 years but before that there was a church, and before that, there was a church and before that there was the house of John SUMWALT, where the first services were held and organized back in 1821.
  The first church was a frame building, built in 1838 near a mill owned by Rudolph GOOD, that stood near the river and along the west edge of what is now the old part of the cemetery. Mr. Good donated the ground for the church to be built on. This building burned mysteriously after being used only 9 years.
  The second Maxville church was built in 1856, in the north west corner, and the now old cemetery was started around this building. The church was abandoned in 1914 and used as a residence for many years.
  In 1914 the pr
esent church was built and its fate now lies in the hands of the Maxville cemetery owners and some cemetery board members do not know where many of these people now live.
  Two hundred and fifty lot owners are not all of the people who would like to voice their sentiments about what should be done with the church building; but due to the lack of many addresses, it is impossible to contact the others who own lots in the cemetery.
  William GREEN, retired blacksmith, has been president of the cemetery board for over 30 years. Other board members are  Mrs. Altha HOBBICK, secretary; Russell MULL, Chase COOK, Reuben SHAW and Gene FOSTER.
  Maxville and Farmland churches were on the Farmland circuit and the first minister was Rev. Ira HUFFMAN. The circuit was in the Richmond district of the Methodist conference.
  The first janitor of the Maxville church was Boyce MILLS, who lives in Farmland. According to Mills; after the first two years, the church was unable to pay for his services but he continued doing the janitor chores without pay. Mills' son, Claud, has been caretaker of the cemetery for many years and on occasion takes care of the church.
  The church is at present being used each Sunday by the Bible Deliverance group who are paying fifteen dollars a month for its use.
  In 1930, the district superintendent gave the Farmland church board his permission to sell the Maxville church and it was purchased by the cemetery board for one thousand dollars. Mr. Green was also president of the Farmland church board at the time of the sale. At one time, according to Green the board was offered ten thousand dollars for the building but the sale was never completed.
 Rev. Harvey THORNBURG, retired minister, has the distinction of conducting more funerals in this church than any other minister. His records show that he has conducted at least 800 funerals here. Quoting Re. Thornburg, he has held funerals here for "young, old, suicides, murders, good and the bad."
  There have probably been fewer weddings in the Maxville church than any other church in the county according to Green and Mills, but nobody seems to know why.
  For many years, Decoration Day exercises were held and former residents came back year after year from great distances to attend these services.
  Often, prior to the sale of the church to the cemetery board, when repairs were needed, the members "pitched in" and did their own work. One particular year, the members rented land and planted a crop of oats and with the money received, repaired the ceiling of the church.
  Now comes a time when an oats crop or even several hundred dollars will not restore the beauty to this structure or make the repairs that are so needed and if something is not done soon, what used to be a beautiful church will lose that beauty, inside and outside. Then it will become just another memory to join the many memories that are sleeping so peacefully in that corner near Farmland.  By M. C. Barrett, Winchester Journal-Herald, October, 1963.
_____

______________________

Want to learn more?
Visit The Museum.
     Hours vary with volunteer availability. Check the website or Facebook for current open to the public hours or call/message/email to arrange an appointment.
Facebook group: Randolph County Indiana Historical and Genealogical Society

Visit the website.
     Here is a link to the cemetery database.  https://rchsmuseum.org/cemeteries-database

Follow the blog.
     Scroll to the right or below the article to click "FOLLOW" to get email updates as soon as a blog is uploaded.  This is a great feature to share with family and friends who are not active on social media.