Miscellaneous Obituaries, Bay County, Florida

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Death of Louis Waller

Louis Waller, a Civil War veteran and a member of L. M. Mosley Post, G.
A. R., Dexter City, Ohio, died at his home on 12th street at Colorado
avenue at 7:30 Friday evening, June 2nd, after a long illness. Funeral
services were conducted by members of Staunton Post No. 2, G. A. R.,
and their Chaplain, Rev. M. D. Cooley, at the home of L. W. Gessel, on
Florida avenue, on Saturday, and on Tuesday morning the remains were
taken by his daughter, Mrs. Elmer Wickens, to his old home in
Macksburg, Ohio, for interment. Louis Waller was born in Noble county,
Ohio, January 20, 1846, and departed this life June 2, 1922, being 76
years, 5 months and 12 days of age. He was a volunteer in the Civil
War, having been enrolled as a private in Company D, 17th Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, on the 18th day of August, 1864, at Lowell, Ohio,
by Lieut Hussey. He served his country faithfully, participating in a
number of engagements, and was mustered out on July 14th, 1865, at Camp
Dennison, Ohio.

He was married to Miss Atherton on June 14th, 1871. To this union were
born six children, three sons and three daughters. Two sons and one
daughter deceased, also the mother, who preceded him three and one-half
years ago. The living children are Mrs. Elmer Wickens, Mrs. Minnie J.
Lee and Frank Waller, all of Macksburg, Ohio. Mr. Waller was an uncle
of Louis W. and Benjamin Gessel, of this city.

He was an upright, public-spirited citizen, and leaves a host of
friends to mourn his passing.

"PANAMA CITY PILOT", Panama City, Florida
June 8, 1922





Frank Young

On November 29, 1848, a baby boy came into the home of a German Sea
Merchant in New Orleans. The lad was soon christened Francis Young in
the German Lutheran church of that city. But when Francis, who soon
became better known as Frank, was only 18 months old the sad news of
his father's death at sea struck terror to the heart of his mother, and
she closed her eyes in the endless sleep, leaving Frank, a tiny infant
brother and also one older brother in an orphan home.

The older brother died a few years later and Frank and Robert were
adopted by friends of the parents, but each into different homes. Thus
Frank was brought up as an only child by devoted foster parents.

When only 13 years of age he ran away from home and enlisted in the war
of 1861-1864. He served as drummer boy throughout the entire four
years. After being mustered out in New York City, Frank went to Indiana
where he secured work on a farm. There he stayed until 1880 when he
left to go to the state of Washington, where he established his own
dairy farm and served patrons in Portland, Oregon for over thirty
years.

Selling out in Washington in 1911, he brought his foster mother and
came to Lynn Haven, both of them very sick people. Florida sun shone
kindly on them for a while until the mother passed away a few years
ago. Mr. Young improved in health and grew in strength and for years
has been on of Lynn Haven's most able old men.

Three years ago he was united in marriage to Miss Elsie Rice of this
city. Now his passing away, in the Veteran's Hospital at Bay Pines,
Fla., leaves her his only surviving relative.

Mr. Young died March 18, 1936, and was laid to rest in the National
Cemetery at Bay Pines, complying with his request. A military funeral
with all the accompanying homers due an old soldier, was accorded him.

He has long been the Commander of the local G. A. R. Post here in Lynn
Haven, and his going leaves only two remaining members, and only a very
few more of the Boys in Blue in the city.

"St. Andrews Bay News", St. Andrews, Florida
April 2, 1936





Charles R. Merrill Died Saturday

Charles R. Merrill, aged 73, died at the family residence on New York
avenue on Saturday afternoon, death resulting from an illness of
several months' duration. The funeral service, held Monday afternoon,
was conducted at the G. A. R. Hall by the Rev. Mr. Post, the G. A. R.
and Rebekahs. The Sons of Veterans and Odd Fellows had charge of the
service at Lynn Haven cemetery, where interment was made.

Our departed friend and comrade was born December 25th, 1848, at
Washington, Maine, where he remained until his twelfth year, when he
entered the U. S. service in the capacity of personal servant to his
father, Capt. Henry E. Merrill, of the 1st. California Infantry. In
May, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, of the 16th Maine, commanded by
his father, and was assigned to active duty with the 19th Corps under
General Howard. He was subsequently with the Army of the Potomac,
participating in the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of
Gettysburg, where the 16th Maine was almost annihilated, and other
great battles in the eastern theatre of operations. Following his
discharge on March 13, 1866, Mr. Merrill enlisted in the 9th
Massachusetts, National Guard, with which he served eight years.

He was married in 1868 to Miss Emma Hale, of Hudson, Massachusetts,
their union being blessed with six children, three of whom are living.
In 1892, some years after the passing of his first wife, he married
Miss Madeline T. Howard, of Charleston, Mass., a niece of General
Oliver Otis Howard, of Civil War fame. To them was born a son, Morris,
who was with his father when the end came.

Since coming to Lynn Haven in 1911, Mr. Merrill has been an active
member of Staunton Post No. 2, G. A. R., serving as Junior and Senior
Vice-Commander, and was for two years Commander of the Post. At the
time of his death, he was Junior Vice Commander of the Sons of
Veterans, the territory under his jurisdiction including seven
southeaster states.

Mr. Merrill's personality was one that commanded the high esteem of his
associates, and his passing is greatly deplored by his surviving
comrades of Staunton Post, and a large circle of friends in the city,
who extend their sincere sympathy to the widow and children.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
May 25, 1922





George Foster

George Foster was born in Franklin county, Indiana, in 1838, of pioneer
parents in what was then one of the wilderness outposts of
civilization. When the Civil War broke out in all its fury, young
Foster hastened to join the Union ranks and enlisted in Company F, 18th
Infantry, with the rank of musician, in July 1861, serving until August
16, 1864, when he was honorably discharged from the service.

After the war he made his home in the Hoosier state until 1912, when,
with scores of his old comrades, he came to Lynn Haven to found a new
home in the sunny Southland. Although a quiet and unassuming man, Mr.
Foster's sterling worth was at once apparent to his new neighbors and
he quickly enjoyed the cordial esteem of a large circle of friends
here, who viewed with deepest regret his passing on May 17th, after all
that the tender care of a loving family and the best medical skill
obtainable could do had been done to prolong his life.

The funeral services were held at the residence last Thursday
afternoon, with the beautiful and impressive ceremony of the G. A. R.
for their departed comrades. Veteran Foster is survived by his wife,
five children, twenty-three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren,
to mourn his loss. The body, accompanied by his wife and daughter, was
taken to his old home near Metamora, Indiana, for interment.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
May 25, 1922




C. J. Walker, War Veteran, Passes To His Reward

C. J. Walker, one of Bay County's most highly respected citizens,
answered the final summons Friday evening. He has been in feeble health
for the past year, and his death came quietly.

Mr. Walker was born in Chicago, Ill, July 9, 1845. Both of his parents
died while he was an infant, and his early training was given by foster
parents. Reaching manhood, he moved to Minneapolis, Minn., accepting
employment as millwright in one of the flour mills, and it can be said
that he grew up and spent his business life in the development of many
of the greatest plants of the middle West, among them Pillsbury Mills,
and others of equal importance. At the age of 18, he entered the U. S.
Army, serving through the war of the States, as a gunner in the light
artillery.

Returning from the war, he re-entered the milling business, and was
married, his wife dying in 1908, leaving Mr. Walker three sons and two
daughters, now living.

In the summer of 1910, Mr. Walker visited St. Andrews Bay, spending
some weeks here. In 1912, he built a home on East Bay near Martins
Bayou. That year he was united in marriage to Miss Euphrasia Franz, who
survives him. Mr. Walker was an honorable member of the Catholic church
and the Grand Army of the Republic.

The funeral took place Monday afternoon, Rev. Father Meyer of St.
Dominic's Church officiating. Burial was at the Catholic Cemetery.

Mr. Walker resided in Lynn Haven for some time and was a member of
Stanton Post, G. A. R. Lynn Haven friends regret to learn of his
passing, and deepest sympathy is extended Mrs. Walker in her
bereavement.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
December 31, 1932





Pioneer Citizen is Dead

C. J. Demorest Aged 84, Passed Away Saturday, Once Owned Much of This
City C. J. Demorest, one of the pioneer residents of this city, and who
at one time, some thirty years ago, owned an interest in the greater
part of what is now the business section of the town, passed away at
his home here on Saturday after a long illness.

Mr. Demorest was born in Rochester, New York, 84 years ago last Monday.
He was a member of the G. A. R., having served the Union during the
conflict of the Sixties. Some thirty or more years ago, he became
interested in a townsite consisting of nearly all that property lying
west of Magnolia avenue, south of Fifth street and extending to a line
running approximately due north from the residence of Dr. W. J. Lee.
This property was platted under the name of Park Resort, and later the
name was changed to Harrison, the same as that of the first postoffice
at this place. When the boom of the Eighties feel thru he went west,
with his family, but upon the birth of Panama City, he returned and had
made his home here for some nine or ten years past.

The funeral was conducted from the Methodist Church by the pastor, Rev.
W. C. McConnell, and Rev. W. F. Moore of the 1st Baptist Church. The
City officials acted as pall bearers, and a guard of honor composed of
his surviving comrades of the local G. A. R. Post accompanied the
remains to the cemetery from the church on Monday afternoon, and the
Grand Army burial service was conducted at the grave.

Mr. Demorest is survived by his wife and two children, one, Mrs. O. W.
Tedford, wife of Marshal Tedford, of this city, the other, Mrs. W. R.
Jamison, of Sacramento, Calif.


Card of Thanks

We take this method of expressing our heart-felt appreciation of the
many kind acts and words of sympathy and beautiful floral offerings
received from our friends and neighbors during our time of trial and
bereavement in the loss of our dear husband and father.

May God richly reward you and may you not have lack of friends when you
are called upon to pass through similar grief and loss. Mrs. C. J.
Demorest, Mr. and Mrs. O. W. Tedford, Mrs. Ida M. Curd.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
March 13, 1919





James W. Blaney, 88, died at his home on Louisiana avenue at 5 o'clock
Sunday afternoon, August 28, after an illness of eight years. Mr.
Blaney was born in Ireland, September 15, 1844, and came to America
with his parents at the age of six years. He enlisted in the Navy on
March 7, 1865, and served on the U. S. S. "Galena" at Fortress Monroe
for two years. He was married in 1887, his wife living three years.
After her death, he never married again. Mr. Blaney came to Lynn Haven
in 1911. He was a man of fine moral character, who lived nobly and died
peacefully at an advanced age. The Grim Reaper found him "as a shock of
corn ripe for the harvest." The funeral service was held on Tuesday at
9 o'clock A. M. in St. James Catholic church, Rev. Charles D. Meyer
conducting the service. Interment was made in the Lynn Haven cemetery.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
September 3, 1927





Artemus W. Judd, the last of a large family, was born in Canada in 1840
while his parents, citizens of the United States, were making a brief
sojourn over the line. At the age of 8 years he moved with his parents
into Lake county, Illinois, and from that State at the age of 20 he
enlisted in Company F, 37th Regiment of Illinois volunteers and served
through the duration of the Civil War.

In 1866, he was married to Miss Julia Sisson, of Minnesota, to which
state he took up his soldier's claim of 320 acres and established his
home. To this union was bon one son, Artemus W. Judd, Jr., now a
Baptist minister living in Pana, Ill. Beside his son, he leaves a wife
and four grandsons to mourn his passing which occurred on September 2nd
at his home in this city.

In 1920 his first wife died, leaving a beautiful life of service and
good works to bless her memory, and after a lapse of several years Mr.
Judd was married to Mrs. Lena Murphy, of Dothan, Ala., on September
18th, 1922. She has blessed his declining years with the most careful
and faithful attention. Mr. Judd had been failing in health for five
years prior to his death, was often bedfast and required constant care,
both day and night. He was a faithful Christian, prominent in the life
of the Baptist church, having served as a deacon in the Lynn Haven
church of that denomination for several years until he moved his church
membership to the First Baptist church of Southport, of which he was a
member and a deacon at the time of his death.

For a number of years following the destruction of his home in
Minnesota by a prairie fire, Mr. Judd was somewhat of a wanderer. He
passed a period of seven years in Texas, then moved to the state of
Washington, where he remained for twenty years, and when the Lord took
away his only child for the Gospel ministry, the lonely old man moved
to California, remaining there for two years. He next moved to
Illinois, then to Virginia for several years, then to Illinois again,
whence he moved to New Mexico, and from New Mexico to Lynn Haven.

Mr. Judd ends his life here but his influence and loving character will
remain with us. He leaves here his devoted wife who has nursed him
faithful, prayerfully, through shade and shine, both day and night. May
God's blessing rest upon her, keep her and reward her in that sweet by
and by.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
September 17, 1927





Louis H. Sprecher

We are in receipt of the Lanark Gazette which contains the news of the
death of Louis H. Sprecher, prominent farmer and business of Lanark,
Illinois, and who, with his daughters spent two winters in Lynn Haven.
Mr. Sprecher was a native of Pennsylvania and was born in 1840, in
which state he remained till his enlistment in Co. I, 21st Penn.
Cavalry. He moved to Illinois in 1877, where he made his home till
1902, then retiring from active business. The death of his wife in 1910
served to further impair his already failing health, and in 1915, he
suffered a paralytic stroke from which he never fully recovered. In the
long years of his residence in Lanark he was identified with many
business pursuits and public works and had been a lifelong and faithful
Republican to politics. He was an eminently successful agriculturist,
with well formed and firm opinions upon whatever subject he discussed.
He is mourned by the following children, Ora M. A. Lincoln, of Miss;
Anna Weed, William Huber, Elizabeth E. and Louis H., and five
grandchildren. Misses Ora and Elizabeth accompanied Mr. Sprecher to
Lynn Haven and made many friend here who extend sympathy in their loss.

"Bay County Tribune", Panama City, Florida
July 25, 1919






Rev. D. A. Tucker

On last Sunday evening, Lynn Haven, was plunged into mourning, when it
became known that Rev. Tucker had passed away.

He was one of our pioneer citizens, having come here 15 years ago, and
through all these years has been an active citizen in helping to
develop our city and in advocating those principles of morality and
justice which mean so much to the healthy growth of any community. He
was an aggressive man, living, as he said, "at war with Satan and at
peace with God." As a neighbor he was peaceable and accommodating,
always ready to help those in need, and his passing has thrown a pall
of gloom over that section of our city. For many years he was patriotic
instructor for the G. A. R. and his fervent loyalty to the old flag,
and his patriotism and love of our country and its institutions, leaves
an imperishable monument to his memory. How sadly he will be missed by
Stanton Post and the Ladies Circle!

Rev. Tucker lived a long and consistent Christian life, and for 51
years was actively engaged in the work of the ministry. His funeral was
held in the G. A. R. Hall at noon on July 11th, where a large crowd of
sorrowing friends had assembled to do him honor. Rev. Burns officiated
and in well chosen remarks, compared the life of Rev. Tucker with the
Christian standard laid down by Christ and Paul. The choir, composed of
Messrs. Dunscombe and Mesdames Barnes, Cook and Jarvis, sang "Sweeter
as the Years Go By," as one of Rev. Tucker's favorites. Mrs. Barnes, at
his request, sang as a solo, "We'll Never Say Goodbye in Heaven," and
Mrs. Cook sang "Asleep in Jesus." after the regular services the Ladies
Circle, of which he has always been an honorary member, took charge
with their ritualistic memorial service. The many beautiful floral
emblems was an expression of the love and devotion and great esteem
which the people of Lynn Haven held for our dear brother and friend.
This heartfelt sympathy of everyone goes out to his faithful companion,
whose loving ministration held out to the close, and who has so bravely
bore up under the great bereavement.

Rev. Tucker was 82 years, 1 month, and 20 days old, and leaves twelve
living children and many grandchildren. He served in the Union Army for
4 years, 8 months and 8 days. He leaves behind him a record of years,
well rounded out in usefulness and service to humanity and loyalty to
God and Country. Immediately after the funeral his remains were taken
by rail to his old home in Greensburg, Indiana, where they will be
interred in the old home church yard.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
July 14, 1927





Mr. Dixon Passes

P. C. Dixon, one of the oldest business men of this city, finished his
earthly life about seven o'clock on December 31st. Funeral services
were held at the G. A. R. Hall on Thursday and interment was made in
Lynn Haven cemetery.

Mr. Dixon was a soldier in the Civil War and a native of Pennsylvania.
He was one of the early settlers of Lynn Haven and kept one of the
leading grocery stores of the city. He was generous, accommodating, and
kind. In his generosity he trusted both white and black alike, and
furnished food for many a poor man and his family until he could get
work and pay the bill. He lost some, but one man proving ungrateful did
not hinder Mr. Dixon from helping another. Mr. Dixon left many grateful
friends among the poor who will recall the name of Harry P. Dixon with
feelings of gratitude and kindness. It is the good that men do that
lives after them.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
date missing






G. J. Smith, of Mt. Gilead, Ohio, who had a shock some days ago, died
at the Moss apartments about 6 a. m. on Wednesday.

Mr. Smith arrived here on New Year's day in feeble health, not having
fully recovered from a former shock, and seemed to be gaining some, but
last Sunday he had another shock, from which he never rallied. His
children were telegraphed, and his son-in-law, L. W. Linn, arrived here
on Monday night in time to see his father-in-law a few hours before he
passed away.

Meesers. Brake and Sharpe, undertakers, prepared the remains for
burial, which will take place at Mr. Gilead, Ohio. Mr. Linn and Mrs.
Smith started North with the remains on Wednesday morning. The funeral
will be held on their arrival at Mr. Gilead, the home town of Mr.
Smith. The deceased leaves a family and many friends to mourn his
death.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
date missing





Colon James Ball was born at Athens, Vt., June 21, 1844, and died in
Lynn Haven, January 31, 1932. The passing of Mr. Ball closed a long and
useful life. He enlisted at Saxtons River, Vt., in Co., F, 4th Vt. V.
I. at the age of 17 years and served three years, being in ten
engagements in Virginia and Maryland. He was wounded at Antietam.

For a number of years he worked at the making of scythe snatha in
Bellows Falls, Vt., and in his brother's factory in Canada. He engaged
in farming at South Acworth, N. H., for 20 years before coming to Lynn
Haven. He married Georgianna Hudson, a native of Stratton, Vt., at
Brattleboro, Vt., Dec. 31, 1870. To them were born seven children, only
three of whom survive. The survivors are a son, Carl A. of Waterville,
P. Q., Canada; Mrs. Walter G. Smith of South Acworth, N. H., and Mrs.
J. H. Pitkin of Winchester, Mass. Eleven grandchildren and four great
grandchildren also survive.

In November, 1911, Mr. Ball and his brother, Joseph, came to Lynn Haven
and built a home on Mississippi avenue. The following autumn, Mrs. Ball
accompanied him back from New Hampshire, and Lynn Haven was their home
until their death, Mrs. Ball passing away in June, 1918. For the past
12 years Mr. Ball has been faithfully cared for by Mrs. E. P. Rowland.
Funeral services were held at the Methodist Church Tuesday, Feb. 2,
being largely attended. Rev. Thomas Holcombe, assisted by Dr. W. J.
Hall and Rev. Dunton, officiated. The choir sang two selections, and
Mrs. Fringer, whom Mr. Ball had loved to hear sing, sang Abide With Me.
The Ladies' Circle of the G. A. R. and 10 surviving veterans attended
and the G. A. R. gave its impressive service.

Mr. Ball was a life-long member of the Methodist Church and served on
the official boards wherever he lived. He was a charter member of
Stanton Post, G. A. R., and served as commander two years. At the time
of his death he was officer of the day of the post. And so one more
good soldier has answered the last roll call.

"Lynn Haven Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
February 7, 1932





The funeral of A. Strehle, a veteran of the Civil War, was held in the
G. A. R. Hall at 2:30 p. m. on Sunday, January 4th.

It was one of the largest funerals ever held in Lynn Haven, many
friends, comrades, and neighbors of the deceased attesting their
sympathy by their presence. Mr. Strehle was a man who made many
friends, and no enemies. He was one of the loyal pioneers of our city,
having come here in 1911, and taking an active part in building our
town, as one of her leading aggressive citizens. The Arlington, one of
the very first hotels, was built by him. He was a man who loved order
and cleanliness, the immaculate condition of his home and premises
bearing testimony to this fact. He was a great lover of music, having a
fine discriminating ear for it.

Rev. Cooley, an old comrade and friend, officiated at the funeral, and
spoke in glowing terms of the many fine qualities of the deceased, and
of the mutual bond of friendship which has grown since their first
meeting in 1911. Mr.. and Mrs. J. M. Johnson, Mrs. Pomeroy and Mr.
Brown furnished the music. One song, an old favorite of Mr. Strehle's,
"The Cross and the Flag," was rendered beautifully by the quarter as a
token of respect to his memory.

The G. A. R. service followed the regular service, quite a number of
the old veterans taking part in an able and impressive manner. The
remains were laid to rest in the Lynn Haven cemetery. A large number of
floral tributes bore witness to the love and esteem of friends. Mr.
Strehle will be sadly missed by the habitues of the Adamson House,
where his friendliness and pleasing personality welcomed the many
guests in the reception room.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
date missing





John E. Whinnery, a resident here for about a year and a half, died
last Saturday at his home on Seventh street, aged 84 years. Funeral
services were held Sunday at the residence, conducted by Rev. Mills,
pastor of the Methodist church. The services were under the auspices of
Kimball Post, G. A. R., and the interment was in Oakland Cemetery.

Mr. Whinnery was born in Columbiana county, O., and for the greater
part of his life followed the occupations of farmer and carpenter. In
1850 he married Miss M. L. Crews, near Salem, O., and of this union
three children were born, Lucinda J., Josiah, and Albert. Mrs. Whinnery
died in 1855. In 1861, Mr. Whinnery enlisted in the Fourteenth Indiana
Infantry, and after about, a year's service was wounded and discharged.
In 1862, he married a second time, to Miss Mary Fawcett, near his old
home, Salem, O. Four children were born to them, three of whom are
living. He became imbued with the western fever after the war, and
lived in Iowa, Kansas, and Colorado. From the latter state he came her
accompanied by his widowed daughter, Mrs. Lucinda Ainsworth, with whom
he lived at the time of his death. During his residence in Colorado he
served as Justice of the Peace, and always took an active interest in
public affairs. He was also post commander of the G. A. R. He was born
a Quaker, but early parted company with that church, and though a man
of religious views, was not identified with any denomination.

Mr. Whinnery was able to be about until a short time before his death.
He passed away peacefully and painlessly, from heart trouble.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
May 29, 1913




Col. Gideon Passes Away

Again has the angel of Death visited, our quiet little city, and called
to his eternal rest one of our well known and highly respected
citizens, Colonel Frank M. Gideon.

The subject of our sketch was born in Green county, Missouri, in
February, 1849. He was too young to enter the service when the war
began, but enlisted in the cavalry at 16 years of age, and served until
the close of the war.

He was a graduate of the law department in the University of Indiana,
at Bloomington, and practiced law eight years in Kokomo, in that state.
He then moved to Washington, D. C., where he was for many years in the
government employ. Resigning that position, he entered the employ of
the railroads, looking after land cases at the capitol.

Fifty years ago, the 24th of December, he was married in Kokomo, Ind.,
to Miss Rosa Ingels, of that city, and they were planning upon
celebrating their golden wedding next month. Three sons and two
daughters were born to this couple, Clyde, of Washington, D. C.; Carl
of this city; Walter, of New York city; Mrs. Dr. J. N. Sutton, of
Washington; and Mrs. J. N. Horn, of Baltimore, all of whom, with his
widow, and many grand-children, survive to mourn their great loss.

Colonel Gideon, with his wife and five grand-children, came to West
Florida some years ago, camping near where their present camp is now
located at Greenhead. Some ten years ago he bought the Bracken place,
in West End, where he has since resided, except for the time he has so
pleasantly spent at his camp.

On Monday of last week the Colonel had a stroke of paralysis, from
which he never recovered, dying on Wednesday. His body was taken to his
old home at Kokomo, Ind., leaving here Thursday morning, where
interment took place on Sunday afternoon. The remains were accompanied
by his wife, and son, Walter. They were joined at Cottondale by his
son, Clyde, of Washington, and the two daughters who were enroute here
when notified of their father's dangerous illness.

Undertaker A. H. Brake had charge of the preparation and shipment of
the remains. Many friends paid their last tribute to their worthy
friend, by their loving sympathy and assistance.

Colonel Gideon was a well known worthy citizen of Bay county, an ardent
republican in politics, and had a most agreeable personality. He was
public spirited, and desired to see St. Andrews take the position that
its natural advantages entitled it to. His Greenhead camp was his great
delight, and its peaceful beauties were often shared by his relatives
and friends. To his widow and children the heart-felt sympathy of our
entire community is extended, all feeling that they have lost a most
valuable citizen, and the family, a most devoted husband and father.

"St. Andrews Bay News", St. Andrews, Florida
November 15, 1921





Death of H. G. Taylor

Though aware of his illness the many friends of Mr. Taylor did not
expect so soon a fatal termination, but death came on Saturday and
called him to his eternal rest.

We had expected an article upon his life from the pen of Mary Orr
Andrew, of San Blas, for this issue, but she writes that she could not
prepare the same before next week.

Mr. Taylor was a well known resident of San Blas, an old Veteran, and
was buried in the G. A. R. lot at Oakland cemetery here on Monday. The
following notice of his funeral, and vote of thanks, is published at
the request of Kimball Post, G. A. R., Panama City, of which the
deceased was a member.

"On August 15th Kimball Post No. 39, G. A. R., met at the First Baptist
Church to pay their last tribute of respect to our noble comrade and
Senior Vice Commander, Captain Henry Greenwood Taylor, of Cook, but for
eight years a resident of San Blas, who answered the last roll call on
Saturday, August 13th.

Kimball Post desires to tender a vote of thanks to one and all of the
many friends who so kindly assisted at the funeral, and who so
willingly offered the use of their care between the city and the
cemetery."


Card of Thanks

We wish to extend our very sincere thanks to our neighbors and friends
for the many kindnesses shown us through the illness and death of our
father, Henry G. Taylor.

We are especially grateful to the good people of Panama City for such
splendid considerations as we received at their hands. Father is absent
from us, but not forgotten.

Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. William S. Hunter, Cook, Florida

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
August 18, 1921




Colonel Charles Doty Passes Away

It is with deep personal regret that the editor of the News announces
the death of this prominent citizen, who passed away, like one falling
asleep, at his residence here shortly after eight o'clock this morning.

Colonel Doty was born in Shantytown, now Green Bay, Wis., on August
17th, 1824, and was therefore ninety-four years and four months of age.
He was the son of Judge Duane Doty, one of the prominent pioneers and
officials of the territory of Michigan, and of Wisconsin after it was
taken from Michigan. His services in the Civil Ware were in connection
with the commissary department of the Army of the West, following his
entry into the service in May, 1863. His position in the Army and as a
noted early settler of Wisconsin, his close acquaintance with men of
prominence in military and civil life, and his remarkable memory which
he retained to the end, cause him to speak authoritatively of the early
days in Wisconsin and of the Civil War and Reconstruction Days, and his
reminiscences were both instructive and entertaining.

For the past few years the writer has spent an hour or two each Sunday
with the Colonel, a weekly visit which he most thoroughly enjoyed. But
few younger men retained such a vivid and full knowledge of the past,
and in consequence his discussions and dissertations were of the most
entertaining character. He was a close observer of Nature, and an
interesting conversationalist upon almost any subject.

He has had fair health during the past few years, and most thoroughly
enjoyed his home, where he resided with his only surviving child,
Lieutenant Webster Doty. He read much in French, the classics - having
a well selected library of both French and English works - history,
etc., besides keeping thoroughly posted on the events of the day,
through reading contemporary magazines and papers, his health
permitting this right up to the day of his death.

Funeral; services will be held at the house at 10 o'clock tomorrow
forenoon, with interment in the St. Andrews cemetery. His surviving
relatives here are his son, Lieut. Doty; his daughter-in-law, Mrs.
Doty; and his grandson, Capt. A. Duane Doty, wife and two great
grandchildren. the children of Capt. Doty, all of these relatives being
here except the Captain.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
April 10, 1919





Capt. C. N. Gray Passes

The following newspaper clipping, under date of Sept. 9th, was sent to
the Free Press by P. C. Richards and will be of interest to many of our
readers. Capt. Gray and wife have spent many winters in Lynn Haven and
were well and favorably known here. "Capt. C. N. Gray, aged 84 years,
and who was Barwyn's (Ill.) last surviving Civil War veteran, died on
Thursday morning at the home of his son-in-law, T. R. Kreuder, 3227
Wenonah avenue. "Funeral services are being held this (Friday) morning
at the Baptist church, conducted by Rev. F. Paul Langhorne, the body
being taken to Washington, D. C., for burial."

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
September 17, 1927









B. F. Waite of this city passed away on June 20, 1919, aged 81 years.
He was born in St. Stephens, N. B. His occupation was that of
lumberman. He enlisted in the service of the U. S. on April 6, 1861, in
response to the first call, as private in Co. D, 6th Reg.'t, Maine Vol.
Inf. On October 1st, 1862, he was promoted to 1st lieutenant of Co. F,
22nd Reg't, Vol. Inf., after having served for a time as Sergeant in
Co. D. He was discharged at Bangor, Me., on August 14th, 1863, by
reason of expiration of term of service, having served faithfully for 2
years and 3 months. He is survived by two brothers aged respectively 90
and 71 years, and one sister, aged 76.

Mr. Waite was loved and respected by everyone who knew him intimately.
Being naturally of a modest and retiring disposition, he never pressed
his acquaintance or company upon anyone, but those with whom he was
closely associated testify freely as to his many noble attributes and
sterling qualities. His nature was one of extreme kindness and
tenderness and his love for children bespoke the manly characteristics
which prompted the manifestation of this gift in many ways. Although
advanced in years, his mind remained brilliant to the end, and he
appreciated to the fullest the many little service rendered to him by
neighbors and friends. The funeral services were held in the G. A. R.
Hall on Tuesday, July 22nd at 10 a. m. A goodly number of comrades and
friends were present. Rev. Eifert delivered the funeral address. Music
was furnished by a quartette consisting of Mrs. Greene and Mrs. Tiat
and Mesrs. Elfert and Bradeen with Mrs. Bradeen at the piano. The
impressive ritualistic service of the G. A. R. followed. No relatives
were present, but all were mourners around the casket because of the
passing of a loyal friend. His remains were laid to rest in the Lynn
Haven cemetery with those comrades who had preceded him, and his grave
marked the final resting place of another of the brave preservers of
our Union.

"Bay County Beacon", Panama City, Florida
August 1, 1919







Richard B. Kiddle was born in England, June 19, 1843, and departed this
life on Wednesday, September 14, 1927, at 11:50 a. m. He came to this
country with his parents when he was seven years of age, the family
settling in Illinois. Afterwards he went to Nebraska, where he lived
for many years, coming to Lynn Haven seventeen years ago. Mr. Kiddle
was the only surviving member of his family, a brother and four sisters
having gone on before him. He served in the Civil War Company K, 31st
Illinois.

At one time, Mr. Kiddle was mayor of the city of Lynn Haven, an
honorable, highly respected and beloved citizen. Many kind deeds of
helpfulness did he bestow where he thought it might do good, which,
perhaps, the world in general knew not of.

He is survived by his wife, Caroline L, and five nieces- Miss Mae
Kiddle, of Milwaukee, Wis.; Mrs. Thos. Bishop, of Racine, Wis.; Mrs.
Mary G. Hodder, of South Haven, Mich.; (these three were daughters of
his brother) Mrs. Elizabeth Fortney, of Chicago, Ill, and Mrs. Grace
Smiley, of Los Angeles, Calif. (the latter two were daughters of his
sisters).

Miss Mae Kiddle has been with her uncle since June 14, helping to care
for him and looking after his comforts. He two sisters were here for a
few days a short time ago, when Mr. Kiddle was able to visit with them
and greatly enjoyed having them with him.

The remains were taken to Friend, Neb., Friday morning, September 16,
accompanied by his niece, Miss Mae Kiddle, where interment will be made
in the family lot in the cemetery at that place.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
September 17, 1927









James L. Smith was born in October, 1821, and died November 11th, 1921,
thus rounding out a whole century. He was born in or near Arbroath,
County of Forfar, Scotland, about twelve miles from where the narrator
Judge Sturrock, was born, who conducted the funeral obsequies on
Saturday last, burial being in Greenwood cemetery.

Born of humble parentage, he grew to boyhood, getting an education
suited to his conditions in life, and left home, taking a liking to the
sea, going to the Post of Dundee, where he was apprenticed to a ship
captain bound for the East Indies, and sailed with him until he reached
early manhood, visiting various countries in the far East, finally
returning to London, and while lying there was, with five others of the
ship's crew, taken by the Press Gang and placed on board a warship of
the British navy, one of the old oaken ships such as Nelson had at
Trafaigs, cruising where ever required, returning to London in 1852,
where he was in the naval export attending the funeral of the great
Duke of Wellington in June of that year.

On the breaking out of the Russian War, in 1854, his ship was ordered
to the Black Sea and stationed in front of Constantinople, remaining in
that vicinity until the fall of Sebastapol in 1855, which ended the
Crimean War. By this time he had attained the rank of quartermaster,
about as high as one who had risen from the ranks could attain then.

In 1857 the great Sepoy mutiny broke out in India, and his ship was
ordered there, where he saw and endured bitter warfare. He was present
at Lucknew, whenit fell, and the mysterious disappearance of Nina Sahib
ended the war. This ship returned to England, where he was honorably
discharged. Learning that all his relatives had passed away, or
disappeared, he went to Liverpool and shipped in a vessel bound for the
west Indies, where he remained until the outbreak of the Civil War in
America, when his love of adventure prompted him to become a blockade
runner in the Gulf of Mexico, where he had several adventures, but
passed through without any bodily harm.

At the close of this war he returned to the West Indies, and while
there a tropical hurricane came on, with a tidal wave breaking on his
island home, washing away all his belongings, including his truck,
containing his war medals that had been given him by the British and
French governments for valuable services, much to his regret, and a
great financial loss. Soon after this time he came to Florida, moving
from place to place, finally settling on St. Andrews Bay.

He was married here many years ago, and is survived by his wife, his
only known relative. He retained his faculties to the end, also his
eyesight, which had never failed him, a rather remarkable condition for
a centenarian. His home place was his delight; and was kept marvelously
clear of all but the growing vegetables, which he raised in profusion
for home and market. Mrs. Smith was always well thought of by his
neighbors, and our citizens, who tender his wife their sympathy.

Judge J. Sturrock

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
November 17, 1921









E. Mahan

Our whole community is saddened by the death of Mr. E. Mahan. He was
the friend of all, always had a kind word for the children, and
cheering helpful words for the older ones. In the few years he had
lived here he had become such a dependable, "Spoke in the Wheat," that
now we are at a loss how to go on without him.

He always attended Church and Sunday School, and he never failed to
look after all the poor widows (and there are several) to see that they
had plenty of wood.

The day of the funeral some one happened to say that he had no
relatives living near. Another took up the chance remark and said, "No
relatives living here? Were we not all his relatives; did we not all
call him 'Uncle Ned," and mean it too?

He was born in Virginia and was about 17 when he fought in the battle
of the Wilderness. He followed surveying for a profession and was a
good surveyor. He was a firm believer in the dignity of useful labor,
and practiced it here by making a good garden. He was the most
practical gardener we had, and all last summer, when everything was
parched with the drought, he had a nice garden, which was always so
green and pretty. And only hand tools to do the cultivating and tilling
with.

He never spared himself or seemed to think of self. If there was any
errand, or something he could do for someone, he went at it right now.
It is know that he suffered pain and was not in very good health much
of the time, but he didn't say much about it. He never had time to talk
much about himself- always seemed to think there were more important
topics.

He advocated the cause of temperance and equal suffrage. He also took
much interest in the present problems of our fisherman, and wanted them
to get their rights. He belonged to the Masonic and Odd Fellows
fraternities and was much attached to his fraternal brothers.

Many who now mourn this friend who is gone will still be thankful all
their lives that they knew for even a season on earth this good man,
and they will be the better for having known him.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
November 18, 1915









Death Of An Old Citizen

Died on Monday, October 4, at the Lynn Haven Sanitarium, Charles Turner
Porter, aged about 76. Mr. Porter had been a great Sufferer for a
number of years, his health becoming bad some eight years ago, for the
past three years he has been confined to his bed practically all the
time, about two years ago breaking his hip which made him very nearly
helpless. He had been in the home of his nephew, J. M. Poster of this
place for the past three years; about two and a half weeks before his
death, he was taken to the Sanitarium, where he could receive such care
as it was impossible to give him in the home.

Mr. Porter's parents were among the very first settlers in what is now
Bay county, they building their home on Moccasin creek, near Econfina,
something (sic) over a hundred years ago.

Mr. porter was one of a family of five sons and four daughters, he
being the last surviving one of that generation. He married at the
early age of eighteen, his living but a short time. There were no
children and he never married again, or have a home of his own,
although a very home and children loving man, and children where ever
he was loved him. He lived with various ones of his brothers and
sisters as long as any of them lived, after which he made his home with
different nephews and nieces, of whom there are a large number. Until
his health failed, he was a very active man, always finding plenty of
work to do, and becoming quite well fixed financially, until his ill
health, doctor and hospital bills ate up his accumulations of former
years.

On Tuesday the body was taken for interment to the Porter Burying
ground, very close to the spot where he was born, and was followed to
the grave by a large concourse of relatives and friends. From Lynn
Haven were, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Porter, Mrs. Wesleys Hobbs, Mr. and Mrs.
John Cox, Mrs. A. J. Gainer, Mrs. A. W. Gainer from Panama City, Mr.
and Mrs. L. C. Gay, W. C. Vickery, I. H. Grant; from St. Andrews, Chas.
T. Porter, nephew and name-sake of the deceased; from the Econfina
neighborhood many others. As a token of the respect in which he was
held by those who had known him for many years, the school was
dismissed for the afternoon that all might attend the burial.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
October 9, 1926









In the death of Perley E. Wilson, at his home on Monday, January 10th,
St. Andrews sustained the loss of one of the oldest and most respected
citizens, and the greater portion of the inhabitants of West St.
Andrews, together with many friends from the town proper, and other
surrounding towns gathered at the home on Tuesday, January 17th, to pay
their last respect and homage to the memory of Mr. Wilson, and to
express their feelings of condolence for Mrs. Wilson, who survives him.

Mr. Wilson arrived in St. Andrews in 1896, and the years which he
passed in this quiet place were as a peaceful, calm after the stormy
vicissitudes of a most eventful youth and early manhood.

He was born among the rugged hills of Pennsylvania, in the year 1841;
the second son of a family of nine children. His parents were hard-
working pioneers, of sturdy Scotch and English descent, whose ancestors
had fled from their native country to this land of promise because of
oppression, before the Revolution. They pledged their allegiance to the
people of this western land and bravely fought with them for freedom
from England. One ancestor was privileged to become a signer of the
Declaration of Independence.

Born with an inherited spirit of dauntless bravery, courage, and
independence, Mr. Wilson at an early age was a champion for right and a
protector of the weak.

He idolized his mother, and when only a youth acted as her protector on
numerous occasions when his father found it necessary to travel from
one section of the country to another seeking employment. At different
stages of their lives they pioneered in New York, Wisconsin, Michigan,
Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa and Arkansas; suffering all the privations
and dangers of the early settlers and coming in contact with Indians,
wild animals and outlaw white men. Small of stature, Mr. Wilson,
nevertheless, possessed a wonderful constitution, and his sturdy frame
was capable of great feats of strength and endurance. When quite a
small boy he became an expert hunter, fisher and trapper, and this
served him in good stead many times when the family larder was low.

At the time the unfortunate war of 1861 was declared, Mr. Wilson was
one of the first seventy-five thousand who answered duty's call in
April of that year, and enlisted in Co. H, 32nd Wisconsin Volunteer
Infantry and served to the end of the war; fought in many of the most
decisive battles and was cited for bravery and valor.

In the four years of struggle, privation and hardship he was fortunate
in having no hospital experience; but after the battle of Bentonville,
and when the troops were marching to Washington for their discharge,
trudging through Virginia's heat, sand and mud; sleeping in their
straps and clothing; smoke begrimed, long-haired and dirty --- fifty-
four days of the hardest marching they had known- he fell by the side
of the road, overcome by sunstroke and congestive chills. His recovery
was slow and never entirely complete; hospital physicians assuring him
that only his life policy of total abstinence from intoxicating liquor
and tobacco saved his life.

He received his honorable discharge from the army in July, 1865, and
went to the home of his father in Athens County, Ohio. In November of
the same year he was married to Miss Lucy Ross, of Athens County, Ohio,
and of this union two children were born, both of whom died in infancy.
Mr. Wilson and his wife lived in perfect harmony and affection until
January 24th, 1894 when she was laid to rest.

On June 29th, 1896, he was married to Mrs. May Thayer, who survives
him. He was ever a loving husband, and also a kind father to his step-
daughter, who is now Mrs. R. T. Hutchins.

For the last thirty-four years of his life, Mr. Wilson had been a
faithful and consistent Christian, believing in the Seventh Day Sabbath
and the Second Coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ.

He was laid to rest in Greenwood cemetery, there to await the coming of
the Life-Giver.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
January 26, 1922









Ephriam J. Fringer, son of George W. and Susannah Null Fringer, was
born December 29, 1845, in Tawneytown, Carroll county, Maryland, where
his father, a law enforcement officer of the county, died when Ephriam
was a ten-months-old infant.

Young Fringer made his home in Tawneytown, where he received his
education, until after the Battle of Gettysburg, when he went to
Illinois to join a brother then engaged in the drug business at
Shelbyville.

His acquaintance with pills and portions, however, was short, for in
February, 1864, he enlisted for service with a replacement detachment
that was sent to the 14th Illinois Infantry, Colonel Hall commanding.
The regiment, which had been very nearly annihilated, was then in
Virginia, and formed a part of the 3rd Division, 17th Army Corps.

The collapse of the Confederacy, soon after their arrival at the front,
cheated Fringer and his follow recruits of the active service for which
they had enlisted and their only fair chance to mix it with the enemy
went glimmering when the Confederate General Bradley T. Johnson
surrendered half a day before they came up with his battered, war-weary
command. At the close of hostilities the 14th Illinois proceeded to
Richmond and Alexandria, Virginia, then to Washington, where they
participated in the Grand Review of the Union forces, after which they
were transferred to the Western Department and sent to Fort
Leavenworth, Kansas, to take the field against the marauding bands of
Indians.

From there the 14th went to Fort Kearney for a while and then in the
spring of 1865 returned to Leavenworth, where the command was mustered
out of the service.

Following his discharge, Mr. Fringer went to Shelbyville, where he
remained for a short time and then returned to his old home in
Tawneytown, Maryland. Not long after he removed to Oakland, in the same
state, where he engaged in the painting and paper-hanging business
until 1911, when he came to Lynn Haven and built his home on the
property he had purchased on Maine avenue, between 5th and 6th streets.
This place he subsequently sold, and moved to Kentucky, between 3rd and
4th, where he and Mrs. Fringer now reside. Mrs. Fringer was married
first, in 1876, to Miss Amelia Bush, of Oakland, Maryland. To this
union were born two daughters, Mrs. James Sincell, now living in
Grafton, West Virginia, and Mrs. J. Rufus Chamblee, of Anderson, South
Carolina. The first Mrs. Fringer passed away many years ago. On
November 26, 1916, Mr. Fringer was united in marriage with Mrs. M.
Margaret Barrett, of this city, the charming lady who shares wit him
their present home on Kentucky avenue, near the water.

Mr. Fringer is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, but in the
absence of a society of that denomination in Lynn Haven, worships with
the Presbyterians. He is a Master Mason and a member of the Eastern
Star, and now hold the post of Adjutant in Staunton Post No. 2, G. A.
R., in which capacity he has served for the greater part of the time
since the post was organized, except for one term as Post Commander.

Despite his 77 years, Mr. Fringer is active in business, fraternal and
the church circles, and is one of the leading real estate dealers of
the city in addition to looking after the rentals and other interest of
a large number of non-resident property owners.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
September 14, 1922










Our city was shocked on Saturday afternoon as the tiding quickly spread
that E. J. Fringer had passed away, while taking a nap, apparently
without a struggle or a pain. As some one called to see him, Mrs.
Fringer spoke to him, but thought him asleep; a second look showed that
he had passed away. Mr. Fringer was an active citizen and carried on
his business up to the last moment. Last September the Pilot published
a brief biography of this old veteran, which is herewith republished,
as it is quiet complete and was taken down from his own words.

His funeral was held on Monday afternoon from the Presbyterian church,
Rev. Mr. Covert officiating. A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. J. M.
Johnson, Mrs.. Paul Pomeroy, and I. A. Brown sang. The church was
filled with sorrowing friends of the deceased. Services at the church
were in charge of the Order of the Eastern Star, while the Masonic
Order was in charge of the services at the grave. Mr. Fringer's
comrades of the G. A. R. were also present.

Our little city, and Mr. Fringer's many friends throughout this portion
of the country, will sadly mourn his departure from among them. The
Pilot editor highly esteemed him as a good personal friend, and joins
in the heartfelt sympathy of all to his family in this, their great
bereavement.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
March 11, 1923









John Thomas Coleman, son of William J. and Mary Eliza Coleman, was born
in Barbour county, Alabama, January 23, 1843, and passed away in this
city at half past nine o'clock on Saturday morning, April 27, 1929, his
death occurring from the infirmities attending his advanced age. At the
outbreak of hostilities in the Civil War, he enlisted in the
Confederate forces in which he served with valor and distinction for
two years, until captured by the Federals. Following his capture he was
taken to Chicago and confined in a military prison for the duration of
the conflict.

Returning South after the end of the war, Mr. Coleman went to Texas,
where, at Douglasville, he was united in marriage with Miss Henrietta
Louisa Caldwell, on November 7, 1867. To this union were born nine
children, eight sons and a daughter. The surviving children are Dr. W.
E. Coleman and Mrs. G. C. Miller of Chipley, Fla.; R. P. Coleman,
Montgomery, Ala.; A. L. Coleman, Miami, Fla.; Dr. T. T. Coleman,
Okeechobee, Fla.; Dr. A. J. Coleman, Tampa, Fla.; and M. A. Coleman, of
this city, with whom he made his home. Mrs. Coleman preceded him in
death in November, 1922.

Following his marriage, Mr. Coleman and his bride returned to Alabama
and made his home at Clayton for several years and later moved to
Geneva, where he engaged in the sawmill and mercantile businesses which
he conducted successfully for many years. In 1909 he disposed of his
interests at Geneva and with his devoted wife came to Panama City.

Mr. Coleman was a member of the Baptist church and a Mason, although in
recent years his failing strength had prevented him from being actively
identified with the local lodges... (blotted out)

Mr. Coleman was one of those fortunate people who possess the happy
faculty of growing old gracefully. After a long and useful life he
viewed the world and his fellow man with a kindness and friendly
interest that endeared him to all who came to know the admirable old
gentleman. He will be greatly missed and genuinely mourned by a large
circle of friends and sorrowing kinspeople.

During recent years, when increasing feebleness restricted his comings
and going, he became a regular attendant at the Presbyterian church,
with his son, M. A. Coleman, and family, and it was at the First
Presbyterian church of Panama City that the funeral was conducted on
Saturday afternoon by the pastor, Rev. J. C. Leckemby, assisted by Rev.
S. D. Monroe, former pastor of the St. Andrews Baptist church, and Rev.
W. C. Wallace of the Presbyterian faith and a warm friend of the
deceased.

The large attendance at the funeral service and the many beautiful
floral tributes bore eloquent testimony to the high esteem in which Mr.
Coleman was held by his fellowtownsmen and friends. Following the
services at the church interment was made at Chipley, Florida, beside
the last resting place of his beloved wife.

"St. Andrews Bay News", St. Andrews, Florida
April 30, 1929









A GOOD CITIZEN GONE
Passing of Dr. William W. Krape

On Friday, March 19th, at 11 o'clock a. m. at his home in Lynn Haven,
Dr. William W. Krape laid aside mortality and took on immortality. The
ever busy life, which had been his part, ended, and, his dauntless life
beyond the grave began, Lynn Haven had lost a citizen who ever had
before him the advancement of his home city, as well as his old home in
Freeport, Illinois, which he had always in mind. In whatever he became
interested he gave his every energy to carrying out his plans. The
benefit of the community, rather than personal aggrandizement, was a
prominent feature in his life. This was exemplified in his efforts to
organize the Lynn Haven Chautauqua, as well as other public features in
the upbuilding of this city, and the work that he has also done in
completing the soldier's monument both and Lynn Haven and Freeport.

Of the latter work the following resolution published in July, 1924,
tells of what Dr. Krape accomplished: "Whereas, Comrade Dr. W. W. Krape
has worked hard for the past several years to have the memorial
soldier's monument placed in a first class permanent conditions and he
has now succeeded so far as to have eight bronze tablets containing the
names of all those who enlisted from Stephenson county and served in
the Civil War of 1861 and '64 placed on the monument, he paying one
half the cost himself. "Therefore, be it resolved that we tender our
Comrade, Dr. William W. Krape our sincere thanks for what he has
already accomplished and hope his life will be spared and he will
continue in good health until he succeeds in... (blotted out) the
monument place in first-class condition." He took a most laudable pride
in having these Freeport and Lynn Haven soldiers' monuments erected
erected and completed, and this work is now a monument to Dr. Krape
also. He was an earnest G. A. R. member, always doing his part.

William W. Krape was born near Freeport, Ill., April 11th, 1847. In a
historical work named , "Illustrated Freeport," issued in 1896, there
are three pages devoted to Dr. Krape and his work, which includes a
fine picture of the doctor, as well as a review of himself and staff,
he being at that time the Supreme Captain of the Knights of the Globe,
an organization that was formulated and projected in to the fraternal
world by Dr. Krape in August 28th, 1889. On the seventh anniversary of
the organization of this society it had 9,000 members. Its objects were
to "preserve and strengthen kind and fraternal feelings which bind
together those who are elected as members. To select none for members
except those who have an established reputation and...

At an early day in the life of Lynn Haven he removed to that city, the
date being thirteen years ago. Since then he has done much in the way
of aiding in the city's development, and death alone ended this work.
His own home was one of the ornaments of the city, and he was always
adding to its natural beauty. In January, 1925, the doctor and his
estimable wife celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary. He is
survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. Bessie Carnahan, of Freeport,
Ill., and a son, Wm. Krape, of Ft. Myers, Florida.

Funeral services were held at his home here, and on Sunday his remains
were taken to his old home at Freeport, Ill., for interment.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
March 27, 1926









GEORGE M. WEST

West, whose ancestry dates to 1650 New England, was born in 1845. He
grew up in New York and Wisconsin where he obtained a rudimentary
education. At 15, West began his career with the Chicago, Milwaukee &
St. Paul Railway System.

He also tried his hand at the newspaper business, publishing the
Brandon (Wisconsin) Times, followed by the Ripon (Wisconsin) Free
Press.

While West worked for the railroad and printed his newspapers, he
studied the law and in 1871 was admitted to the Wisconsin bar. But when
West discovered practicing law was not as he envisioned, he returned to
the railroad, this time as a train dispatcher for the Chicago
Northwestern in Escanaba, Mich.

West's successful handling of export tonnage that equalled the size of
the port of New York earned him a promotion to assistand division
superintendent, in which capacity he continued until 1900.

The proposed construction of the Eufaula & St. Andrews Bay Railway to
St. Andrews in 1886 brought West on a visit to the Gulf Coast. He was
so impressed with the bay and area that he constructed a winter home
along what is now West Beach Drive.

Over the next decades, West made semi-annual visits to his Southern
home, via rail lines followed by hack service from Marianna or Chipley
to the bay.

West's wife, the former Adella M. Showers, and son, Charles E., lived
in the St. Andrews home several months of the year. In 1892 Charles
died from complications of diabetes. He left a wife, Eleanor, and son
and daughter, Philip and Grace. The Wests helped raise the children.

In 1904, a heartbroken West buried his wife. A year or so later, he
married Louella V. Simmons of Chicago. She passed away in St. Andrews
in 1908 and became one of the first persons to be buried in the Panama
City Cemetery (Oakland) at the corner of Balboa Avenue and 11th Street.

During this time, West received a promotion to superintendent of the
Chicago Heights Terminal Transfer Railroad. He remained in that
position until 1906 when he retired from the railroad. Then West made a
permanent move to St. Andrews intent on finally bringing a railroad to
the bay and developing property he slowly acquired at Harrison, the
town that would be renamed Panama City in 1906 for the Panama Canal
under construction at that time.

West and his investors soon organized the Gulf Coast Development Co.
With the help of R.L. McKenzie and A.J. Gay in 1906, West succeeded in
convincing sawmill owner A.B. Steele of Georgia to bring his logging
railroad from Dothan to the bay. The Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay Railway
or Bay Line was completed in June 1903.


DEVELOPING PANAMA CITY

One of West's top priorities was the establishment of a newspaper, the
Panama City Pilot, in May 1907. In order for the town to grow, West
knew a school, bank and telephone service were of the utmost
importance. Along withr other pioneers, he aided in securing these
facilities then worked with J.H. Drummond of St. Andrews to seek harbor
and waterway improvements.

During his leisure time, West gardened and studied nature and local
history, He began his library collection at an early age. He loved his
books and made them his constant companions. His collection grew to
become one of the finest in the state and included books of early
fiction and many rare periodicals.

In 1909 West married Lillian H. Carlisle of Callaway. She went on to
work with him in the newspaper business, the two also publishing the
St. Andrews Bay News and the Lynn Haven Free Press.

In 1922 West penned the book, St. Andrews, Florida. The book, about St.
Andrews in the 1800s, still serves as a primer for the early history of
the area.

West also wrote Old St. Joe and A Night on a Florida Beach, a booklet
that told nore about this area's past.

When West died in October 1926, he was placed in a black velvet casket
in the library of his home on Beach Drive. The Pilot of Nov. 4, 1926
eulogized West as a man who "may well be called the Father of Panama
City, for it was through his vision that the groundwork was laid, the
first railroad brought to our shores, with all its attendant
developments."

Rev. D.W. Haskew said, "in the coming and going of the years, West
would be loved and appreciated more and more."

Reused with permission of the author, MARLENE WOMACK







Veteran Henry Fielder Dies At Age Of 86

Henry E. Fielder, 86, Civil War veteran, and pioneer of this county,
died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. A. J. LeMont, in Dane Prairie at
8 a. m. this, Monday, morning. Death was due to anemia and old age. He
had been in failing health for the past six months.

He had spent the past six or seven winters at Lynn Haven, Florida,
where he owned a home and where his son, Lester Fielder, resides. He
made the trip each time by car and in May 1930 he made the trip from
Florida alone in his car in four days and arrived on the eve of his
84th birthday. When his health began to fail last fall the LeMonts
drove down and he returned with them to this city.

Mr. Fielder was born, Mary 24, 1846, in Germany and came to America in
1854 with his parents, locating at Cleveland, Ohio, where he lived
until he enlisted August 25, 1864, with the marines, served on the
Gunboat Jacob Bell until the close of the war. He received his
discharge July 6, 1865. He was a member of Seward Post, Pelican Rapids.

He later settled at Fairchild, Wis., where his marriage to Miss Emma
Hobart took place April, 1869. Her death occurred about 23 years ago.
In 1880 Mr. Fielder came to Otter Tail county and settled north of
Pelican rapids in the township of Scambler, owning a farm on the north
shore of Sand Lake. He took an active part in civic affairs and held
various township offices and also served on the school board. He was a
highly respected resident and a man of many sterling qualities, whose
death will be greatly mourned.

He was the father of nine children, five daughters and four sons. Two
daughters and one son preceded him in death. The children shoo survive
are: who. Frank Wright, Mrs. Fred King, Marion Fielder and Guy Fielder,
all of Saskatchewan, Canada; Lester Fielder of Lynn Haven, Florida; and
Mrs. A. J. LeMont of Dane Prairie.

Besides his six children, he is survived by 23 grandchildren, 49 great
grandchildren and three great great grandchildren- 91 descendants.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the
Barnard Mortuary, the Rev. Henry Johnson officiating. Interment will be
made in the Bangor cemetery in Scrambler.

Fergus Falls (Minn.) Daily Journal, June 13.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
July 2, 1932









Funeral services for Arthur M. Dunn, a native of Ohio, who had made his
home here since 1924, were held from Tom Shepherd's funeral home this
morning at 11 o'clock, with burial following at Oakdale cemetery.

Mr. Dunn died at his home in Barker Heights at noon on Thursday. He was
in his 87th year.

Mr. Dunn was born in Summerfield, Noble county, Ohio, in 1845. At the
age of 19 he entered the Civil War in the Union Army together with five
brothers. He served as fife major of the 116th Regiment, O. V. I.,
during the war, and afterward completed his education for the teaching
profession. In 1911, he retired and traveled extensively abroad,
visiting Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, and later touring this country.
After a period of residence in Ohio and Florida he came here in April,
1924.

He is survived by his widow, two daughters, Mrs. Harry E. Smith and
Mrs. Nellie M. Stewart, of Little Rock, Ark.; two sons, Dr. Waldo Dunn,
of Claremont, Calif.; and Howard Dunn, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and six
grandchildren. The two daughters were present for the funeral services.
- Clipping sent from Hendersonville, N. C.

Mr. and Mrs. Dunn were pioneer residents of Lynn Haven, arriving in
1911 and building a comfortable home on Georgia avenue, now the home of
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Hobbs.

"Lynn Haven Free Press", Lynn Haven, Florida
July 23, 1932









Josiah M. Wills, son of Enoch and Hannah Ann Wills, was born November
17th, 1846, at Medford, Burlington county, New Jersey, and passed away
in St. Andrews, Fla., at 3 o'clock on the morning of December 21st,
1928.

Funeral services were held at the family home at 10 o'clock on the
morning of December 22nd, the Rev. S. D. Monroe officiating, with
interment in Greenwood cemetery.

Mr. Wills is survived by his widow and two sons, Guy, who makes his
home here with his mother, and Ralph, who is a quartermaster of the U.
S. dredge Wm. T. Rossell, now stationed at Philadelphia. The surviving
members of the family have the sincere sympathy of the many warm
friends of the deceased in their loss.

"St. Andrews Bay News", St. Andrews, Florida
January 1, 1929









Through one of the thousands of doors that death opens sooner or later
to all, on August 8th, at Fort Brown, Brownsville, Texas, passed one
who was very well known here in St. Andrews, and whom, through his
mother, Mrs. Annie Brown, residing here, claimed St. Andrews as his
home.

Edward Jay Perdue was born in Cleveland, Ohio, January 17th, 1869. He
was educated in the public schools of that city, and as his uncle,
Eugene Perdue, was president of the Cleveland Leader Company, Edward
worked for many years in the plant of that paper as pressman. Being
fond of the West he afterwards spent some years in Arizona and New
Mexico. After his mother came here to reside, he made her several
visits, and in 1915, owing to her widowhood, he came and remained with
her for some three years, after which he went to Brownsville, Texas,
and entered the Civilian Service of the Quartermasters Department, of
the U. S. A., at Fort Brown, where he was employed at the time of the
brief illness, which resulted in his death on the 8th.

Mr. Perdue was of a very retiring disposition; kindly to all; and
passionately attached to his mother, whom, with his sister, Mrs. L. M.
Ware, were the sole objects of his deep affection. He was a great
reader, and took much pleasure in talking with his sister upon
literature. One of his greatest pleasurers at Camp Brown was the camp
library, which afforded him the opportunity of living with the wisest
and wittiest writers of the world. It has been said that time and space
are annihilated by books, and thus it was with Mr. Perdue. Books, and
his mother and sister, were all the world to him.

His remains were brought here for interment, which took place on
Saturday afternoon in Greenwood cemetery in the family lot. Services
were held at the home of Capt. and Mrs. Ware at 3 o'clock that
afternoon, Rev. J. P. Word officiating, the singing being by ladies and
gentlemen of St. Andrews. Undertaker Brake had charge of the funeral.
The offerings of flowers were numerous and beautiful, covering the
casket, and when placed on the new-made grave, changed it to a mound of
beauty, the sympathetic gifts of numerous friends of the family. Many
friends accompanied the cortege to our quiet Gods Acre, where, in the
closing hours of the departing day, beautiful beyond comparison, all
that was mortal of him whose life work was finished, was laid away,
leaving with his loved ones, but pleasurable memories of love and
affection. The family have in their great affliction the heartfelt
sympathy of all who know them.

"Panama City Pilot", Panama City, Florida
August 18, 1921