"FULLERTON'S FIRST 100 YEARS (1879-1979" PAGES 50-105 This full text transcription was done by Ted and Carole Miller from a copy of the original publication. Submitted to the USGenWeb Nebraska Archives, January, 1998, by Ted and Carole Miller (susieque@pacbell.net) USGenWeb Project NOTICE: In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the internet, data may be used by non-commercial researchers, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages may not be reproduced in any format for profit, nor for presentation in any form by any other organization or individual. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for purposes other than as stated above, must obtain express written permission from the author, or the submitter and from the listed USGenWeb Project archivist. *************** Fullerton's First 100 Years (1879-1979) along Highway 14 south of town, and dedication ceremonies were conducted. Don Fitzgerald purchased the Mid-City Motor firm from Fred Boardman. Knoefler Honey Company began operation north of Fullerton. Fullerton's Pony baseball team won the Central League championship. The month of July had a prolonged dry spell, and temperatures registered over the 100-degree mark on numerous occasions. A. G. (Gus) Saville retired following 43 years of service as a rural mail carrier. 1965 - Douglas Smoyer, 14, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lowell Smoyer, earned an Eagle Scout award. He was the first winner of the award in Fullerton since the early 1930's when James Corriell was recipient of the honor. A new federal building and post office were being built on South Broadway on a site occupied for many years by [Image: New Federal Building and Post Office.] the Leininger Lumber yard. Fullerton's high school basketball team qualified for the fifth time since 1958 to play in the state tournament. The team lost to Wood River by a score of 65 to 53. Dr. Kenneth Dalton and Dr. Robert Bass of Genoa formed a corporation and announced plans to construct a 25-bed Nursing Home to be located in the northeast part of Fullerton. Dr. and Mrs. James C. Maly, while returning from a trip to South America in a private aircraft with friends from California and Chicago, were forced down in a jungle along the Amazon during heavy weather when the craft ran out of fuel. Dr. Maly suffered fractures to both legs, and other members in the party also were injured. The group made friends with the natives in the jungle and was taken by boat to a missionary from where they made contact with their family here about their plight. Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd DuRell were killed on April 22 in a highway smash-up while on vacation in Florida. Mr. DuRell was Fullerton postmaster. On November 29, M. J. Schumacher was fatally shot in his hardware store by Alvin Madura, former City policeman. Mr. Schumacher was serving as a member of the Nance County Board of Supervisors and had operated the hardware store for over 40 years. 50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Apparent cause of the shooting was a dissatisfaction by Madura that his county welfare payment was reduced as a result of regulation changes. Mrs. M. Castle died at the age of 99 on February 22. 1966 - The Fullerton high school track team won the state championship in their class. Sam Brower, Steve Nesbitt, Daniel Bosak, James Maly and Patrick Bosak earned Eagle Scout awards. Rainfall, measuring as much as 12 inches in the upper Cedar Valley, on August 12 caused the Cedar river to go on a rampage as never before seen by oldtimers. The flood waters were running several feet deep and nearly a mile wide north of town. Losses to crops, livestock and personal property were extreme. The Fullerton Livestock Pavilion was inundated by the flood waters, and the Union Pacific depot was swept away by the high tide. No lives were lost, but families had to be evacuated from lowland areas along the river and several residents were saved from possible drowning by heroic rescue teams. The National Guard was called in to assist in an air search for stranded and dead livestock along the river. 1967 - On March 24, the Community Feed and Seed Store elevator was destroyed by fire when it was struck by a bolt of lightning during a severe electrical storm. Damages were estimated at $100,000. New lighting at the fairgrounds baseball diamond was installed as a combined project of the City of Fullerton and the Fullerton American Legion Post. The Nebraska Centennial was [Image: Scenes from pageant on Chautauqua grounds during 1967 Nebraska Centennial.] 51 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ observed by activities held here during the year. W. H. Plourd, publisher of the Nance County Journal for 36 years prior to retiring in 1961, died December 21 at the age of 74. 1968 - An early morning fire on January 29 destroyed Clara's Cafe, located on Broadway. The cafe re-opened some months later in a remodeled location across the street. A $270,000 bond issue for a new hospital carried by a 9 to 1 majority. The facility was built on South Broadway on a tract donated by Mr. and Mrs. Frank Morris. Fullerton earned honorable mention in a National Clean-up Contest. Dr. E. P. Spackman, lifetime resident and retired Fullerton veterinarian died on January 6. W. R. Kellogg, retired Nance county clerk, died on February 23. W. H. Russell, stock raiser and farmer and retired implement dealer, died on October 4. 1969 - In March, ice jams on the Loup river caused flooding and the closing of Highway 14 south of town for a day. Scoutmaster Leo Wolters was presented the Silver Beaver Award, the highest single honor which can be earned by Scout leaders. Mr. Wolters had served as Scoutmaster for 13 years, prior to which he served as assistant for many years. Miss Mildred Jennings retired following 41 years of teaching, 22 of which were in the Fullerton Elementary School. A reception was held in her honor. Army Sgt. Terry Berney was killed in action on October 1 while serving in Vietnam. Mrs. F. W. Johnson, widow of the late Dr. F. W. (Wad) Johnson, died on April 26. Wallace H. Travers, 92, pioneer resident, died on July 20. Two other pioneer residents, Kate M. Crabtree and Mrs. Grover Maybon, died on February 2 and January 29 respectively. 1970 - Patients were moved from the old hospital building to the newly completed Memorial Hospital on South Broadway. A 50-bed addition was being built at Fullerton Manor. Mrs. Arnold [Image: Nursing Home.] Newquist and Mrs. Lyle Newquist opened Newquist Style Shop here. E. M. Black, president of the First National Bank and a longtime community leader, died on April 19 at the age of 71. Irene Swanson, a teacher for 40 years, 26 of which were as a third grade teacher in the Fullerton Elementary School, was honored upon her retirement. 52 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mrs. John Knipphals, 91, longtime county resident, died on March 22, and Mrs. Cora Belle Hatten died at age 99 on May 26. 1971 - Richard and Robert Santin, twins afflicted with muscular distrophy (sic), were named recipients of a national handicapped workers award and went to Washington, D. C., to receive the award from President Richard M. Nixon. Residents donated money to a fund to send Miss Jessie G. Kreidler, retired county superintendent of schools who was instrumental in the early education of the Santin brothers, to Washington to attend the presentation ceremony. Edward L. Dubas, son of Mrs. and Mrs. Steve Dubas, was elected president of the Nebraska Future Farmers of America Chapter. The Nance County Historical Society was organized in August. In the Rose Garden of the White House, President Nixon congratulates Richard and Robert Santin (seated L to R), of Fullerton, Nebraska, after they received the President's Trophy as Handicapped Americans of the Year. With them is Harold Russell, chairman of the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. Although severely disabled by muscular dystrophy, the Santin twins run a successful two-way communications installation and service business. They received the award on Thursday, April 15, 1971. 1972 - J. Alf Brown, 91, longtime resident in the Palmer area, died on January 28 at St. Paul. He was believed to be the oldest native born resident of Nance county. Mrs. Frank (Albina) Santin, pioneer resident, died at the age of 93 on January 4. William F. Downing, longtime resident and former member of the Nance County Board of Supervisors, died July 19 at the age of 93. Frank G. Arnold, 88, died on December 13. He was a Fullerton resident since 1902 and a longtime businessman in the real estate and insurance fields. Fullerton was recipient of a national community improvement 53 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ award. A scrapbook, prepared by Mrs. Volley Thomas and Mrs. E. M. Black, showed improvements consisting of street improvements; opening of new businesses and business fronts being redecorated; new outdoor Christmas lights added in the downtown area; the removal of Dutch Elm diseased trees; a free tree replanting program; clean-up projects undertaken at the City Park and the fairgrounds baseball park; and a painting for the downtown area of the "Leap" by the Delineation Club. Work began on the construction of a new building for the Klip and Kurl Beauty Salon. A new fire hall and city office building was constructed at the comer of 2nd. and Fuller Street and the old City Hall on Broadway was torn down. New restrooms and [Image: Fullerton's new fire hall.] [Image: Old fire siren before it was moved in 1973.] 54 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ picnic shelters were constructed in the City Park. A new metal building was constructed at the school's athletic field for the housing of buses. The former Evangelical United Brethren Church was donated to become a museum for the Nance County Historical Society at Fullerton. A mobile classroom was installed at the Fullerton School. The congregation at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church burned the mortgage on the church building and broke ground for a new parsonage. The Patriot Inn Motel was opened here. Bill Trotter was seriously injured in an early morning explosion and fire which destroyed his home in the downtown area. A natural gas leak was determined as the cause of the blast. 1973 - Fullerton received an award in the Department of Environmental Control and Governor's Council to Keep Nebraska Beautiful Contest. The Fullerton Chamber of Commerce opened a drive to raise $3,000 for construction of a new tennis court. Young people in the community participated in fund-raising projects to assist the project. Kemp Country Club observed its 50th. anniversary by honoring longtime members. St. Peter's Parochial School here closed its doors. Mr. and Mrs. James Kontos, who had operated the Modern Cleaners here since 1923, announced their retirement and closing of the business. Edward L. Dubas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Dubas, was awarded an American Farmer Degree. Wood's Saw Mill, Inc. began operation near Fullerton. John Barklind was honored with a community service award for his many hours of community service [Image: Inside view of Nance County Historical Museum at Fullerton.] 55 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ during 1972. Nance County Historical Society Museum opened. Roofing of the museum was painted and a new sign completed. The museum was dedicated on May 27. A 4-H team, coached by Harold Dissmeyer, placed 3rd in an International Land Judging Contest. Members of the team were Glen Zywiec, Jim Kramer, Mike Voichahoske and Scott Russell. Fullerton Chapter AG P.E.O. commemorated its 70th anniversary. Wayne's Clothing, a men's and boys' clothing store, opened in June. A new Nance County court house was in the planning stage. The Tot Shop, a boys' and girls' clothing store, opened in November. An improvement program was suggested for the school. A $1,120,000 bond election was held December 18 and passed with a margin of five votes. Stella Krug, 93, lifelong resident of Fullerton, died March 3. A project, Sugar and Spice Nursery School, opened in September 1961, continued to grow [Image: New school addition.] 56 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: High School, Fullerton, Neb.] [Image: Primary School, Fullerton Neb.] [Image: High School Fullerton, Nebr.] [Image: Grade School Fullerton, Nebr.] [Image: Present school addition.] 57 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ in 1974. A storm sewer project, costing $53,118.56 was completed in Fullerton. The project ran from the intersection of 3rd and Fuller Streets, northerly and easterly to a point where it emptied into the Cedar river north of Fullerton Livestock Sale Barn. The Fullerton Lions Club held a 50th Anniversary observance. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission gave approval to a $23,000 in a grant-in-aid. Over $5,000 had been raised locally for the construction of a tennis court. The Fullerton Area Chamber of Commerce made an effort to buy the Camp Merrill site. It had been owned by the Nebraska Baptist State Convention which wanted to sell it so as to build a camp elsewhere. Drought losses in Nance County were listed at $13,029,199 for 1973. Fullerton began to plan for Bicentennial activities. Bus Service by United Motor Ways was discontinued in September because of a loss in operations claimed by the bus firm. Work on the new Nance county court house and the new Fullerton School addition was begun. Mrs. Estella M. Jennings, 93, died September 12. The theme this year seemed to be community improvement. Most organizations cooperated in a great effort in many ways to improve the town. Many lasting Bicentennial projects were begun. Brogan Drug Store closed. Philip Morgan built a new office on main street. Oscar Mangelsen, 94, died September 15. 1974 - In January, Fullerton received official recognition from the American Bicentennial Administration designating it as a Bicentennial community. The flag received for this designation was flown from a pole erected in a planter at the Historical Society museum here as a heritage project. Other projects which were to qualify Fullerton for participation in the nation's Bicentennial were the planting of a tree for each Fullerton high school graduate in 1976 and the observance of Bicentennial Sunday in all churches in the county on the first Sunday in July. Miss Margaret Russell was named Nance County Bicentennial committee chairman in July of 1974, and activities were begun that year at the Nance County Fair in the distribution of literature about the upcoming Bicentennial. Fullerton committee co-chairmen were Mrs. Fred (Nellie) Forbes and C. H. Hosler. LaVerne Faaborg was vice-chairman, and Mrs. Keith (Maude) Keller was secretary. 1975 - A special Bicentennial flag raising cermony (sic) was held in the downtown area on May 6. Residents were asked to complete suggestions for Bicentennial projects. A silver bicentennial souvenir coin was given for suggestion judged most appropriate. 1976 - Nance county's Bicentennial baby, Brenda LuAnne Steinbach, was born on January 17 in Memorial Hospital to Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Steinbach of St. Edward. A Bicentennial Pageant, "I Love America", was given by members of the Community Choral Group, church choirs and others in the community on May 23. Fullerton 58 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: Bicentennial flag raising.] participated in a simultaneous nationwide ringing of bells at 1 p.m. CDT on July 4 to herald the country's entrance into its third century. The old Nance county court house was demolished in [Image: Old Nance County Court House demolition.] February, and dedication of the newly constructed court house was held on May 30. The Sportsmen's Club began erection of a new metal 60-ft. x 82-ft. building on its grounds south of the Loup river. Mid-American Dairymen, Inc., which had acquired the Farmers Co-op Creamery here, announced closing of its milk plant here May 1. About 90 interested residents attended a town hall meeting designed to give residents an opportunity to identify problems, offer suggestions, find solutions and determine directions for growth and development of the town. The Fullerton high school Alumni Association was reorganized, and a banquet and program attracted 1162 alumni and spouses. C. S. Hebda was alumni president. This 59 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: Court house demolition.] [Image: New Court House] was the first alumni reunion in over 35 years, and was listed as one of the continuing projects of the Fullerton Bicentennial Committee. On August 14, St. Peter's Parish hosted a representative of the Bishops of Poland, who was visiting in the United States. Bishop John Oblak of Olsztyn, Poland, celebrated a Mass here during which a 40 voice choir sang Polish hymns and a sermon was delivered in the Polish language. Many of the participants were attired in traditional Polish garb. The J. M. McDonald Store was closed after being in business here since 1929. Two new business, Research-O, operated by Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Meyers, and R&A Mr. Automotive, operated by Mr. and Mrs. F. S. (Red) Steele, were opened. Fullerton was among finalists in a State Community Improvement Program. A $50 check and a framed citation were received by the community in recognition of the honor. Dr. J. L. Seberg, who had operated a dental practice here for 40 years, announced the sale of the practice to Dr. Glenn Hadenfelt. Mrs. Mabel Workman, 99, longtime resident, died on October 1. Ralph E. Barber, 90, lifetime resident, died on April 26. 1977 - A housing survey was conducted to determine need for low-income federally subsidized housing here. On April 5, the City 60 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Council adopted a resolution creating a Housing Authority for implementing and supervising such a project. After the results of the housing survey were in, the Housing Authority planned to apply for funds to construct a low-income facility. A new elevator was being built by the Farmers Co-op Association to add storage capacity at its site in the northeast part of town. Notification had been received of approval of a 50-50 matching grant for improvement and replacement of lighting at the fairgrounds baseball diamond. A one-room school house was moved from west of Fullerton to the museum grounds here, restored, and equipped to its early day likeness. 1978 - The Fullerton Chamber of Commerce sponsored a downtown beautification project of placing trees in planter boxes along the curbs of Broadway. An industrial facts booklet and community profile was prepared by the Community Improvement Committee, the Chamber of Commerce and Loup Power District. Camp Merrill, located at the northwest edge of town, was purchased from the Nebraska Baptists by Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Whited, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Whited, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Cunningham and Mr. and Mrs. Dave Cunningham, and was renamed Quiet Oaks. C. H. Hosler, retired president of the Fullerton National Bank and chairman of the board, died on September 28. The City Council and Housing Authority accepted a low bid by Mid Continent Builders of Missouri Valley, Iowa, for constructing a low income housing development on North Broadway, across the street west of the City Park. 1979 - Centennial events in 1979 were a logo contest among Fullerton high school students for creating a commemorative logo. Jerome Dubas was the winner of a $50 prize given by the Fullerton Chamber of Commerce. In April, an oldtime "General Store" was the theme of a baazar (sic) held as a Centennial fund raising project. Plans were made to print a Centennial souvenir booklet. A Centennial [Image: 1979 Centennial Photo] 61 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: 1979 Centennial Photos] 62 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Horse and Buggy Days was held on June 23. Only horse drawn vehicles and riding horses were allowed in the business district, from 2 to 5 p.m. Street dancing began at 7:00 p.m. Kangaroo courts were held, plus judging of Beard and Centennial dress contests. July 8th a Centennial parade was held with a barbecue followed by a drawing for a special Centennial pistol. An Anything Goes contest was sponsored by the Centennial committee at the Nance County Fair. Fullerton won a third place Environmental Action award in the Keep Nebraska Beautiful Contest. A cash award of $50 and a plaque were received. Fullerton was in the finals of the Nebraska Community Improvement Program and received honorable mention. The First United Methodist Church observed its 100th anniversary on June 17. New metal street markers arrived and were installed by members of the Lions Club. [Image: Lions Club installing new street signs] 63 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ History of Churches FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH On August 27, 1882, a group of dedicated Christians gathered to form a Presbyterian church in Fullerton. They met in the chapel of Nebraska Wesleyan University located on a hill in the northwest part of town. Under the guidance of Reverend George L. Little (Synod Missionary), they organized First Presbyterian Church. The charter members were: Mrs. M. G. Cowgill, Maude Cowgill, Mr. and Mrs. M. S. Lindsay, Mrs. L. M. Mulford, John Paton, William Paton, Joseph Reynolds, Mrs. Hester Reynolds, J. S. Shuck, Mrs. Annie Shuck, Mrs. Jane Spackman, Hester Spackman and Hannah Spackman. Mr. John Paton and Mr. John Shuck were ordained as the first Ruling Elders of the church. The membership grew rapidly in the following years: 1883, 22; 1884, 38; 1885, 30; 1886, 26; 1887,14; 1888, 17. As new members were added to the roll with each passing year, the congregation began to fill the first building, erected just north of the present high school in 1883. This building was used until 1912 when the church on its present site was completed and dedicated. William F. Downing, a member of the Church Building Planning Board, suggested that the ediface (sic) be modeled after one he had seen in Texas. The architecture follows a Trinitarian theme with three sections for seating, three circular windows included in each wall and three walkways around the front pillars. Many can recall seeing as many as 800 people at the two services held each Sunday. Members came to church in lumber wagons and surreys before the use of automobiles. Tradition has it that the fall program began with an annual church dinner sponsored by the women of our community of faith. Tables were laden with tempting foods and decorated with autumn flowers. Rare, indeed, was the Presbyterian family who did not attend. Many of our members participated actively in the services of worship held among the oaks at a site northwest of town. On one occasion, the noted evangelist Billy Sunday was a keynote speaker. The first manse was located on the southeast corner of 6th and Division. It was replaced by a ranch-style home located just south of the church in 1957. The lot on which the manse now stands was once the site of a small cabin and playground. The cabin was built in 1926 and was used for various children's activities. Fifteen men from the church formed a Children's Cabin Committee and signed their names to a note for $450 with which they purchased building materials. The cabin was erected with voluntary labor. A stone fireplace along one wall was the only source of heat in the winter. Totem poles decorated the lot boundary. Each child had a pole on which a record of his/her participation in church activities was kept 64 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: Early photo of Presbyterian Church.] in brightly colored symbols. The children competed to be the one with the most colorfully decorated totem pole at the end of the year. Programs for children and youth were entitled Friendly Indians, Friendly Indian Maidens, and Pioneers. There are no living Charter Members, but the fruits of their labors and sacrifices, of their hopes and prayers, of their vision and purpose continue even unto this day. Those in our church family who have been members for at least 50 years are: Mrs. Mabel Hess (1/20/02), A. L. (Pete) Russell (2/8/08), Mrs. Alice Kellogg (4/25/09), Louis Vaughn (4/25/09), Mrs. Clara Rishel (5/26/12), Mrs. Lydia Waggoner (4/12/14), Mrs. Nina Cunningham (11/21/15), Miss Faye Fitzgerald (11/21/15), Mrs. Mildred Knowles (11/21/15), Mrs. Jessie Russell (11/21/15), Roy Russell (11/21/15), Mrs. Fannie Baldridge (11/2/19), Mrs. Ellen Sprague (7/10/20), Mrs. Margaret Downing (7/10/20), Mrs. L. B. (Margaret) Whitaker (1/3/21), Mrs. Gladys Smith (12/3/22), Mrs. Lillie Horn (1/21/23), Miss Lucille Fitzgerald (4/17/27), Robert Palmer (4/17/27), Arna Peterson (4/17/27), Miss Margaret Russell (4/17/27), Mrs. Nora Anderson (3/29/28), Mrs. Alma (Harry) Russell (3/29/28), Mrs. A. L. (Grace) Russell (3/29/28) and Mrs. Hannah Russell (3/24/29). The first pastor of the church was the Reverend J. C. Irwin from Cedarville, Illinois. He was installed on October 11, 1885. Over the years the church has been served by 21 pastors: J. C. Irwin, A. J. Montgomery, F. M. Weeks, D. I. Conkle, G. A. Ray, R. H. Houseman, Wm. H. Cooper, J. K. Driver, S. J. Megaw, D. S. Honsaker, C. E. Kircher, I. Askine, J. M. Pattison, S. G. Kessler, B. F. Grussing, T. G. Atkins, Carl Sandberg, H. J. Svoboda, N. J. O. Boomgaarden, J. D. Barklind, and J. R. Hawthorne. Since 1882, 1945 people have been received and enrolled as members. It is fitting to honor and recognize those now active and serving the church and those who have entered the Church 65 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Triumphant. The church has served the community of Fullerton for 97 years. This past history is a foundation upon which greater service in the coming years will be built. MT. CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH The first worship service of the group that eventually became Mt. Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church was conducted on Sunday, September 2, 1934. The attendance was 50. The congregation was officially organized on May 12, 1935. Charter members were: John E. Post, Leroy Halverson, Willie W. Johnson, Walter J. Rehan, John Kinen, N. M. Ruff, B. W. Luschei, John Filbert and Walter H. Hartman. Rev. Alex Holm of Platte Center was the presiding pastor. Vicar R. E. Schultz was present. The group looked into purchasing Harmony Hall where they had been meeting, but rented St. Alban's Episcopal Church. They worshipped there for the first time on April 19, 1936. The first Mission Festival was held on September 27, 1936. [Image: Early Episcopal Church later used by Mt. Calvary Church.] Mt. Calvary's first called pastor was Rev. John Daniels. He was installed on March 14, 1937, although he had served the congregation since 1936. On August 15, 1938, Rev. Daniels accepted a call to Wyoming. First, Rev. Panning of Central City served as vacancy pastor, and then Rev. Makens was serving by April of 1942. Annual woodcutting bees for wood to heat the church began in 1938. On May 6, 1942, the congregation requested a resident pastor from the District Mission Board of the North Nebraska District of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. He was also to serve at St. 66 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Paul's Lutheran at Monroe (Looking Glass). That year Rev. Arthur Gerhardt began serving Fullerton and Monroe. He left in January of 1944. In the fall of 1944, Rev. B. F. Meschke accepted the call to serve the congregation. In 1946, the parsonage was acquired at the southwest corner of 4th and Fuller Streets. The congregation was incorporated in May of that year. On April 30, 1950, the voters decided to buy two lots west of the parsonage on the southeast corner of 4th and Irving Streets and to build a basement church 32' by 50'. May 17, 1951, the congregation granted Rev. Meschke a release to accept a call to Norfolk. Rev. Kautch and Rev. Knipenburg served as vacancy pastors. Rev. Hugo Leimer was called in September of that year and served until he resigned on January 1, 1961. The first Vacation Bible School was conducted in 1952. In January of 1954, the congregation became independent of subsidy from the Mission Board. Leroy Halverson served as an elder continuously from 1935 to 1958. D. H. Ulferts served from 1936 to 1963. Clarence Frenzen, from 1938 to 1977; and Paul Anderson, from 1958 to the present. Mrs. Clarence Frenzen has been church organist since 1938. On April 26, 1962, it was decided to build the present building which was dedicated on November 4, 1962. Rev. Schubarth served as vacancy pastor after the resignation of Rev. Leimer. Rev. Lloyd Sprick became the pastor late in the summer of 1962. Under his leadership a Walther League was organized. He accepted a call to Kansas, on February 13, 1966. In 1966, the dual relationship with St. Paul's at Monroe was terminated. Rev. David H. Schmidt was ordained and installed as pastor in August of that year. He served until October 1973. On February 20, 1972, the voters decided to build a new parsonage south of the church. It was dedicated on November 15, 1972. Pastors Wagner, Luttman and Schlegelmilch served the congregation in various capacities during the vacancy after Rev. Schmidt left. On August 25, 1974, Rev. Keith Holste was ordained and installed as pastor. In 1977, a revised constitution went into effect which provided for women's suffrage and a church council, limited terms of office, and initiated standing committees for education and youth, mission and evangelism, and stewardship. In 1979 voters assemblies, Ladies Aid meetings, Walther League activities, Couples Club gatherings, Sunday and weekday Bible classes, confirmation classes, regular weekly worship, and projects by the various committee characterize the congregation. A total of 240 baptized members and 186 confirmed members are claimed by the congregation in 1979. 67 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The history of The First United Methodist Church is closely entwined with the early development of Fullerton and Nance County. After the Pawnee Indians were removed from the area now known as Fullerton in 1875, the land was offered for sale by the United States government in 1877. Among the earliest settlers of this reservation land was Rev. R. G. Adams, a Methodist preacher, who bought a quarter section of land from O.E. Stearns on August 26, 1879. The deed recorded in the name of Pauline M. Adams was the first filed in Nance County. Rev. Adams was joined on his homestead by his brother, Charles, who was a carpenter and built many early Fullerton homes. He later became a mail carrier. Rev. Adams is listed among those attending the first school meeting in September 1879, to draft an agreement for the provision of a school house and teacher. Also in September, Rev. Adams was elected temporary secretary of the first County Central Committee. Most significantly, however, Rev. Adams was the first pastor to hold religious services in the area, and upon the organization of the First Methodist Episcopal Church in Fullerton in 1879, it was the first church society in Fullerton. Listed as co-organizers of the church were Mrs. B. D. Slaughter, Mrs. Martha Reynolds, Mrs. Rogers, Mrs. O.E. Stearns, Will C. Phillips and Mrs. R. G. Adams. At the end of his year of preaching there were 38 members in the congregation, and 50 Sunday School pupils. [Image: First Methodist Church.] After Nebraska Wesleyan University was opened in Fullerton in October 1881, Rev. Adams served on the first board of trustees for the school. Until 1883, when the first Methodist Church was built in the northwest part of town, services and Sunday School had been held in the Wesleyan University Chapel. Over 100 persons attended the dedication festivities of the new church and picnic at the Wiltz 68 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Grove, south of the Cedar River. In 1886, two lots of land at the corner of 3rd and Irving Streets were donated to the church by D. W. Randolph. A new church was erected here and is near the site of the present church. The pastor at this time was Rev. W. H. H. Pillsbury, who would again serve the congregation from 1893 to Sept. 1895. Rev. Pillsbury was held in high esteem by the community for his services to the church and as a county official. The hill west of town is named in his honor. Rev. Pillsbury was instrumental in the organization known as the Fullerton Association of Organized Charities, formed in July 1894. The goal of the organization was to provide assistance to area families most severely affected by the drouth and scorching winds which had ruined the year's crops. Rev. Pillsbury was elected as president of the group. He died in December 1895 and is buried in the Fullerton Cemetery. What was to eventually become the Fullerton Chautauqua Assembly, originated with a group from the Epworth League of the Methodist Church holding a Vesper Service near the Leap as an alternative to sitting in a hot church. Others were invited to attend Vesper Services there and soon it became a very popular church meeting place. Thus, the Central Nebraska Assembly was organized in 1899, setting up a daily program of bible school, lectures and evangelistic services, along with music and entertainment. Though organized and led by the Methodists, the entire town of Fullerton worked in cooperation, and so in 1904 the Assembly was formed. The two-week summer Chautauqua program continued for almost 30 years, during which time many cottages were built on the grounds to accommodate the visitors and participants. Since it was the only Chatauqua in Nebraska for several years, there were times when additional tents were needed to shelter the overflow crowds. The last Chautauqua was held in 1929. Later the camp was purchased by the Nebraska Baptist State Convention and was known as Camp Merrill. Today the area is under private ownership, and is known as "Quiet Oaks". In 1907, the old Methodist church building was moved from the north corner location to the south corner of the block where the new brick church was later built in 1908. The cornerstone for the new church was laid in early 1908. Within the stone was laid a Bible, presented by Abraham Palmer who was a new member of the church. The $17,000 church was also dedicated in 1908. Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Kemp was the first couple to be married in the new church in 1909. The following year the North Nebraska Conference was held in Fullerton. Rev. John Grant Shick began his term as pastor in 1912. During his ministry a revival was held following which 40 persons were received into membership. He also preached many sermons on the temperance theme and strongly urged the voting members of the congregation to use their ballots to whatever advantage to close Fullerton's two saloons. 69 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Many of the ministers who followed in later years were eloquent preachers and good church financiers, which helped the church remain strong in witness and worship. When the church observed its Golden Anniversary in 1929, many fine accomplishments were recognized. Rev. Merrill B. Carman was the minister at this time and had been for seven years. The evening he was to preach his farewell sermon to the congregation, September 13, 1931, he suffered a stroke and died. On March 4, 1934, an $800 pipe organ was purchased from St. Paul Methodist Church in Omaha. A dedicatory recital was held and attended by several hundred persons. Choir vestments and new hymnals were also purchased in the next two years. Two special campaigns were initiated in 1933 and 1934. A religious census was taken in Fullerton and the surrounding area to determine homes for visitation by the congregational members. Those not listed as being active in their faith were encouraged to accept Christ and unite with a church of their choice. As a result of this program, over 70 persons did come into the Methodist church fellowship. The other campaign emphasis was on regular church attendance. As a result of the Uniting Conference held in the spring of 1939 at Kansas City, Missouri, the Methodist Episcopal Church changed its name. The Methodist Episcopal Church, the M.E. Church South and the Methodist Protestant Church merged under the name The Methodist Church. It was also in 1939 that the Pleasant Valley Methodist Church building was sold, and some of the proceeds used [Image: Fullerton United Methodist Church] 70 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ to reduce the Fullerton Methodist Church debt. Before his death in August 1944, Rev. George M. Carter, started a layman evangelism program, which again resulted in many persons being converted. Pastor Carter is buried in the Fullerton Cemetery. Although original investigations were started into the building of a new parsonage in 1944, it was not until two years later that work actually began on a new parsonage. The old parsonage was sold for $1,500. The congregation bought Harmony Hall for $645 and planned to use the lumber from this building and from a barn on the property in the construction of the new parsonage. However, just before excavation work began, it was made known that the church furnaces needed to be replaced. Fortunately an energetic and faithful member, Ted Bard, volunteered his labor and expertise and was able to make extensive but very satisfactory alterations to the furnaces, so that they could be kept in use. In the meantime it was decided not to build a new parsonage, but rather to purchase an existing house for $7,500. Rev. D. E. Cannaday and his family moved into the parsonage in October of 1947. Several additions and improvements were made in the church in the 1950's. The baptismal fount was donated by the LaVern O. Williams family and hymnals were presented by Joy, Helen and Mary Lou Heal. Fellowship dinners were prime fund raisers of the times and an active visitation program brought in over 40 new members. The church observed its 75th anniversary in 1954. Through mergers in 1968 and 1969 of the Evangelical United Brethren Church and the Methodist Church, the name was changed to the United Methodist Church. For the years 1975 to 1977 the Fullerton and Genoa United Methodist congregations were served by the same pastor. In June 1977, the North Star Evangelical Church became part of The United Methodist Church at Fullerton. So it was, on June 17, 1979, the 100th anniversary of The First United Methodist Church was observed at Fullerton. The 296-member congregation could be rightly proud and thankful for the many pastors and lay persons, who through their faith, hard work and endurance through the years, had contributed to the church as it stood that day. A complete list of pastors is as follows: Rev. Robert G. Adams 1879-1880 Rev. J. W. Jennings 1895-1897 Rev. R. B. Wilson 1880-1881 Rev. T. C. 1897-1898 Clendenning Rev. J. J. Fleaharty 1881-1883 Rev. C. A. Mastin 1897-1898 Rev. E.G. Fowler 1883-1884 Rev. N. A. Martin 1898-1899 Rev. N. H. Gale 1884-1885 Rev. Lewis Campbell 1899-1900 Rev. E. L. Fox 1885-1886 Rev. A. L. Mickel 1900-1901 Rev. W. H. H. Pillsbury 1886-1887 Rev. J. M. Bothwell 1901-1904 Rev. J. W. Robinson 1887-1888 Rev. J. L. Vallow 1904-1906 Rev. G. W. Martin 1888-1889 Rev. J. B. Priest 1906-1907 Rev. Thos. Wolcott 1889-1890 Rev. E. C. Wright 1907-1909 Rev. N. A. Martin 1890-1893 Rev. A. G. McVay 1909-1912 Rev. W. H. H. Rev. John Grant Pillsbury 1893-1895 Schick 1912-1914 71 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Rev. G. W. Abbot 1914-1918 Rev. E. A. Weber (5 1946 weeks) Rev. A. D. Davis 1918-1920 Rev. D. E. Cannaday 1946-1949 Rev. Frank Shacklock 1920-1922 Rev. Lawrence Boyer 1949 (3 mos) Rev. C. E. Connell 1922-1924 Rev. Charles E. Funk 1949-1954 Rev. M. B. Carman 1924-1931 Rev. Ernest A 1954-1959 Gaither Rev. E. M. Reed 1931-1932 Rev. Theo J. Krumrey 1959-1961 Rev. Richard E. Carlyon 1932-1936 Rev. Norman L. 1961-1965 Crounse Rev. Reuben Staniforth 1936-1938 Rev. Thomas Rehorn 1965-1968 Rev. J. A. Moorman 1938-1941 Rev. Lisle E. Mewmaw 1968-1975 Rev. L. D. Carpenter 1941-1943 Rev. Robert D. 1975-1977 Linder Rev. G. M. Carter 1943-1944 Rev Audrey M Scott 1977 Rev. Dale K. Westadt 1944-1946 EVANGELICAL PEACE/LUTHERAN CHURCH As the various ethnic groups brought their language and customs to the prairie wilderness, so did the early German settlers near Timber Creek also bring their religion. Their Lutheran worship services were first held in a rural school house, located in South Branch township. With the help of Reverend A. Finkbeiner, then pastor of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church at Cedar Rapids, the new congregation of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized on January 3, 1898. Henry Tiemeyer, Louis Schomburg and William Schwensen served on the first church council. The Red Wing school house would later be used to accommodate the growing congregation. By 1907, it was evident that the congregation was ready to begin construction of a church building. A five-acre tract of land for the building site and cemetery was purchased from C. D. Hellbusch for $180. Volunteers assisted Ed Asch, a Mr. Lorenzen and Louis Schomburg to complete the $2,000 church structure. On January 21, 1908, the long-awaited goal of having their own house of worship was realized, and the congregation was incorporated. Formal dedication services were held on April 26 of the same year. Pride and practicality influenced further improvements to the church and the grounds, one of which was a pot-belly stove placed in the center of the church in 1908. Those gathered around the hot stove reportedly kept warm on one side while being uncomfortably cold on the other side. Another traditional addition was made to the church in October of 1915, when a 1,000 lb. bell was installed. Over the years it announced the beginning of worship. There was also a time when the bell was rung at 6 o'clock on Saturday evenings as a reminder of the following day's worship and to toll the news of the passing of a member to his final reward. Segregated seating was observed inside the church, with the ladies occupying the pews on the east side of the aisle, the men on the west side and the children similarly segregated in the front pews. In addition to being attentive to the worship, the ladies were to keep watch over the horses at the hitching posts east of the church and relay any problems to the men. This seating arrangement continued 72 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ to the late 1930's. All the meetings and services of the church were conducted in German until about 1920. It appears that the first English sermon delivered in July of 1918 at a Mission Festival, led the way for the common use of English at worship, in the Sunday School and for Confirmation instruction. On April 21, 1930, with the approval of the congregation, the minutes of meetings also were begun to be translated, and on October 23, 1938, it was voted to have the meetings held in English only. From April 1939 to well into the 1950's monthly German services were offered. The Peace congregation voted to become self-supporting in April of 1925 and called as its first pastor Reverend Weltner. A parsonage costing $5,000 was built the same year, under the direction of Herman Loescher. Even as Peace Lutheran saw to its own needs, it held mission work, both foreign and local, as a vital obligation to be funded. As a result yearly Mission Festival days were held in the Badje pasture along Timber Creek, 2 1/2 miles east of the church. A pulpit was built and seating was assembled to accommodate the crowds of guests who would come to hear the guest speaker and give generously to the mission outreach. Even the reed pump organ was transported to the field. The ladies of the congregation provided the food for the co-operative noon meal and ice cream, candy and other treats could be purchased at the make-shift concession stand. Through the difficult years of the 1930's, the congregation held together, but it was not until 1946 that enough funds were at hand to begin work on building a basement under the church. Severe [Image: Peace Lutheran Church] 73 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ winter weather halted the half-begun work, which was not completed until the spring of 1947. However, once completed, the basement had kitchen facilities and room for the Sunday and Vacation Bible School classes. In addition to the basement, an addition was made to the sanctuary, providing for a chancel and sacristy. By the time Peace Lutheran observed its 50th anniversary of the building of the church in 1958, the congregation had seen many changes in the building and in the service customs. However then, as today, it remained a close-knit "family" congregation. Under the pastorate of various ministers, Peace Lutheran has continued to make interior and exterior improvements and additions since its golden anniversary in 1958. The meeting room and serving area were added in 1970 at a cost of $7,000 and the placement of a stained glass window over the front door are two of the many such improvements. A number of improvements also have been made to the parsonage, adjacent to the church. Under the present pastorate of Rev. Robert Reimer, a folk liturgy is used on alternate Sundays and Holy Communion is offered each Sunday. To enable a more active participation of the congregation in the service, almost all of the liturgy and hymns regularly used have been transposed into lower keys by Mrs. Onno (Dorothy) Ahlers. As the congregation prepared to give thanks for 80 years of existence on June 18, 1978, members of the congregation responded with gifts of money to provide new carpeting for the aisle and chancel area as a token of gratitude to Almighty God. On its 80th anniversary the Peace Lutheran congregation consisted of 162 baptized members and 116 communicants. As an original member of the Iowa Synod, Peace Lutheran come under the direction of the American Lutheran Church in 1930 when the Iowa Synod merged with two other Synods. Twelve years after the 1960 merger of the American Lutheran Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church and the United Evangelical Lutheran Church, Peace Lutheran at Belgrade and St. John at Cedar Rapids severed their affiliation with the newly formed American Lutheran Church. As co-operating, independent congregations, Peace Lutheran and St. John began a mission outreach at St. Edward, now known as Faith Lutheran Church. In June of 1973, the three congregations of Peace Lutheran, St. John and Faith affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Pastors who have served Peace Lutheran are Rev. A. Finkbeiner (1898-1900); Rev. L. Kostbahn (1900-1903); Rev. R. Streeb (1904-1909); Rev. Hansche (1909-1910); Rev. C. Landdeck (1910-1913); Rev. H. Neemann (1914-1922); Rev. P. Weltner (1923-1938); Rev. J. Ackermann (1938-1941); Rev. J. Brinkmann (1941-1944); Rev. J. Hafermann (1945-1946); Rev. O. Zeilinger (1946-1952); Rev. K. Schettler (1952-1963); Rev. E. Blobaum (1963-1965); Rev. H. Feistner (1966-1968); Rev. R. Reimer (1969-present). 74 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ PEACE LUTHERAN CEMETERY After the ground was purchased for use as a cemetery in 1907, the first person to be laid to rest was Louis Schomburg, a carpenter who had worked on the church building; but who did not live to see it completed. Heinrich J. Hellbusch is the oldest person buried there. He was born at Oldenburg, Germany, on December 21, 1829, and was the father of Henry, C. D. and George Hellbusch. At the time, family lots of six grave sites cost $5, and single grave sites cost $1. The gate, placed in the late 1940's, still marks the cemetery entrance. ST. PETER'S CATHOLIC CHURCH The earliest history of what later became the Parish of St. Peter at Fullerton is hidden in obscurity. The first Missionary known to have labored in the Timber Creek area, northwest of Fullerton, as early as 1884 was a Franciscan Father from Columbus, by the name of Father Boniface. He was succeeded by Father Devoes from Spalding. After him came Father Hayes and Father O'Reilly from Albion. Other priests who ministered to Catholics in Nance county were Fathers Geary, Vermeulen, Mulligan, Lordemann and Nepper, to mention a few. A small mission church was erected in 1887 at Fullerton, under the guidance of Father Geary of Central City. No records are available to estimate the cost of construction of this frame structure which served the Fullerton congregation until 1923. [Image: First Catholic Mission Church 1887.] 75 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ In 1913, Father Paul Wiese was named the first resident pastor at Fullerton, thus establishing: St. Peter's as a Canonical Parish. In that same year, Father Wiese guided the construction of the first rectory, a two-story frame building, which was completed in 1914 at a cost of approximately $5,000. The structure still stands on the church grounds today. In September 1915, Father Wiese was succeeded by Father John S. Palubicki, who remained until August of 1918. Father Felix Gebauer then became pastor and remained until September 1920 when he was succeeded by Father Virgil Walkowiak. Under Father Walkowiak's pastorate, it became evident that the Mission Church could no longer accommodate the growing Parish; thus, in 1923, plans were completed and the cornerstone for the present church was laid by Archbishop Harty. The church was built at a cost of $80,000, and was reputed to be one of the most beautiful churches in Central Nebraska. Father Frank Kubiszewski was assigned as pastor in September 1936. Upon arrival, he found that due to crop failures and other circumstances the Parish was $40,000 in debt. Under "Father Frank's" guidance, a Cow Club was organized through the men of the Parish and various activities were conducted to reduce the debt and save the Parish from failure. Through help in 1939 of the late James and Leona Rice, a Parish Hall was built on the north edge of the church grounds. The building was used for various fund raising activities in the Parish and the community to reduce the church debt. Some years later, the Parish Hall was moved to church property, across the street east from the church square. The building was eventually sold at auction and moved to the Mike Chmiel farm northeast of town. All but the first pastor of the Parish joined parishioners in September of 1938 to recall the pioneer work and sacrifices of the previous 25 years at a three-day celebration of the silver anniversary of the establishment of the Parish. When "Father Frank" left the Parish at the end of 1946, the financial debt had been reduced to $13,800. The Parish by then had acquired the entire square block of property, between Esther and Ida Streets and North 3rd and North 4th Streets. Assigned as pastor for the Parish in January of 1947 was Father Stanley F. Pieczonka. He immediately stirred up interest to pay off the remaining debt, and on September 23, 1947, a mortgage-burning ceremoney (sic) was held. With all effort turned toward the eradication of the Parish debt in previous years, it was now time to begin repairs and improvements to the church property. A new heating system was installed in the church, the exterior was thoroughly renovated in 1949 and in 1950 new art glass windows were installed. Also in 1950, a massive interior decorating project was begun. In 1951, the Parish plant was converted to natural gas heating. A new electric organ was purchased in 1952 and the following year new asphalt tile was placed on the floors of the church and padded cushion kneelers were installed. 76 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Improvements also were made to the rectory during that period. Assigned as the seventh pastor at St. Peter's on September 23, 1956, was Father John S. Michalak. With the buildings of the Parish all in good repair, a building fund was inaugurated and efforts were turned toward the goal of a Parochial School. After considerable study and meetings to discuss the project, a decision was reached to proceed with the construction of a new school and rectory. In early 1958, an architectural firm was engaged to draw plans for the improvements. On September 28, 1959, ground was broken for the $127,906 construction project. Laying the cornerstone for the school in a ceremony on December 28, 1958, was Father Virgil Walkowiak, the oldest living former pastor of the Parish. The one-story brick and masonary (sic) school is situated between the church and the old rectory. It contained six classrooms, a lobby, offices, waiting room, supply rooms, lavatories and a boiler room. The new rectory, also a one-story structure, connects to the church from the north by a glassed-in passageway. The old rectory was converted into a Convent to house the Sisters of the Resurrection, whose headquarters are in Chicago, who staffed the school. The doors of the new school were opened to 134 children in grades 1-8 on August 31, 1959. A dedication of the new school and rectory was [Image: St. Peter's Church] 77 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ held on October 11, 1959. The school was closed in the summer of 1976 when the Sisters could no longer be obtained to staff it. The school since has been used for Parish CCD instruction and remodeled into a Renewal Center for use for social functions in the Parish and community. Father Richard Wolbach was assigned as pastor for the congregation in 1966, replacing Father Michalak. Father Wolbach served until December of 1971. In January of 1971, Father Richard Ciurej became the pastor of St. Peter's Parish. It was during Father Ciurej's tenure that another massive redecorating and improvement project took place in the church. New altars and sanctuary lighting were installed as was aisle and sanctuary carpeting. The interior of the church also was repainted. Coming in June of 1979 to replace Father Ciurej as pastor was Father Thomas J. Sellentin. He remained until June of 1980 when he was placed (sic) by Father Nelson Newman. At this writing, the Parish has over 900 souls. It is continuing to grow and be a viable part of the community. STS. PETER & PAUL CHURCH - KRAKOW Early information about the beginnings of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish at Krakow is very meager. The little that is known is derived in large part from the memoirs of those who were associated more or less closely with the Parish during its early years. The following is from some records from St. Stanislaus Parish at Duncan, Nebraska. [Image: First Church, 1894, and Sisters' Convent, 1895.] The first Polish settlers of this district (Duncan) arrived directly from Europe as early as 1869. The first Mass was said in the Duncan Church on Christmas of 1882 by Father Anastasius Czech, O. F. M. From this was created a new Parish at Krakow, two miles south and west of Genoa, Nebraska. About 69 families were cut off from the Duncan Parish in 1893. On July 4, 1893, Father Czech had a meeting at the Vitalis Borowiak farm, with 69 family heads being 78 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ present. A site on the John Szatkowski (Shotkoski) farm was selected for the church and two acres on the Simon Czarnik farm was selected for a cemetery. The name of the new church is to be Sts. Peter and Paul - Krakow. On June 11, 1895, Father Czech was given permission to borrow $1,000 for erection of a Sisters' house at Krakow. Since the Parish was not incorporated, the pastor signed the notes, and at a meeting on June 20, 1895, the Parish agreed to build the Sisters' house and consented to the loan. On September 26, 1895, a meeting was held at the residence of Rt. Rev. Richard Scanell, Bishop of Omaha, for the purpose of incorporating Sts. Peter and Paul Church of Nance County, Nebraska under the provisions of the laws of the State. Trustees for the Parish at that time were Stanislaus Szymowica and John Podraza. Although several of the families who had settled in this vicinity had come from Krakow, Poland, a greater number, according to reports, had come from Tarnov. Because there already was a place in Nebraska called Tarnov, the new settlers of this territory decided to call the place Krakow (Cracow) after the large city of Krakow in Poland. Since no church was erected until 1894, Sunday Mass was celebrated in the home of Martin Borowiak, who resided northeast of the present church. Here, too, in 1893, in the Borowiak home, the Sacrament of Baptism was administered by Father Czech to four infants: Steve Czuba, John Czarnik (Tarnick), Anastasius Borowiak and Benedict Szatkowski. The first wedding of the Parish, that of Mike Sock and Eva Szymowicz was performed by Father Czech in the home of Vitalis Borowiak, southwest of the Martin Borowiak home. In 1894, the first church was erected just east of where the present school is located on the Parish grounds. One of the first additions to the church was a reed organ. About a year later, an addition was made to the rear of the church building which served as living quarters for Father Wegrzynowski, from November of 1895 until June of 1897. Just south of the first church, a convent for Sisters was erected in 1895; but since there were no Sisters, as yet, the building was used as a boarding house for the lay teacher and the children who attended the school. In 1898, the Franciscan priests relinquished the Parish to the diocese. Father Augustyn became the first (diocesan) pastor. In 1901, construction of a new church was begun. The site for this new building was to the south of the first church. The new church was dedicated in 1902. Frank Zaucha, who accepted the teaching position at the school, apparently, also took over the cooking and housekeeping for the pastor. He retained this position for about three years. Following him, during the pastorate of Father Augustyn, was another lay teacher, Frances Trybanska. She taught at Krakow for about two years. Following her, three Franciscan Sisters from Lafayette, taught 79 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ in the school. Their tenure is not certain. In 1908, the Sisters of the Resurrection from Chicago came to staff the school. The first Sisters assigned were Sister Theodore Kierpowski, the first Superior and organist; Sister Michaline Graczyk and Sister Petra. From the beginning of the Parish, various pastors served comparatively short terms. In 1907, a young energetic priest, Father Edward Soliwoski, was appointed pastor. Joe Shotkoski and others moved him by team and wagon from Elba. Since there was no rectory, Father Soliwoski lived in the church sacristy, as did his predecessors. A rectory was constructed in 1909. Father Ed also was appointed to serve the mission church at Silver Creek. He made his trip every Sunday to say Mass at Silver Creek, from 1907 to 1918, by horse and buggy. An ice house was built on the Parish grounds to store food for the pastor and Sisters in 1912 or 1913. In 1922, a new school, boarding house, Sisters living quarters and chapel were constructed. The first church, which up to this time had served as a school, was torn down. In 1923, a basement was excavated under the church, and a heating plant was installed in the basement. A large barn was built on the grounds in 1925 to house teams of horses, driven to services by Parishioners. These buildings were dismantled in the mid-1950's. In 1927, a new addition was made to the church. It was extended to the north to provide a larger choir loft and vestibule. Two steeples were constructed on the church to replace the single one. During the years of the depression, very little had been done in the way of improvements to the church property. In the late 1940's and early 1950's, members of the Parish organized fund drives and raised over $20,000 which was used for various interior and exterior improvements and repairs to the buildings and grounds as well as to the cemetery. A Delco system, which had been used to generate electric power to the buildings, was replaced in 1948 by commercial electric power. Some of the improvements were made through memorial donations from families of longtime members of the Parish. Father Soliwoski died in March of 1956, at the age of 86 after serving the Parish for nearly 50 years. On April 5, 1956, Father Stefan Flisiak succeeded Father Soliwoski as pastor for the Parish. Father Flisiak continued with improvements and renovation plans in the church, school, Sisters' home and rectory. Two school buses were purchased in 1963 to transport pupils to classes, new playground equipment and other school furnishings also were purchased. Since pupils no longer boarded at the school, the dormitories were remodeled into living quarters for the Sisters. The school basement was transformed into a dining room, with kitchen, to accommodate social functions. New wells were dug on the grounds and numerous other improvements were carried out. 80 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ With the approach of the Diamond Jubilee of the Parish in 1968, it was decided to build some outstanding structures as a token of gratitude for the 75 years of the existence of the Parish. Erection of a new rectory and social hall was completed between May and October of 1967. The Diamond Jubilee of the Parish was held on August 18, 1968. Due to the lack of Sisters to staff the school, it was closed at the end of the 1977-78 term. As of December 31, 1979, the Parish contained 80 families. Its picturesque setting in quiet rural surroundings is a tribute to the agriculture community which it serves. The church is one of only a few which today can be found with ornate altars and other church furnishings which were installed at the time of construction at the turn of the century. Pastors serving the congregation: Father Anastasius Czech, O. F. M. (Founder in 1893) Father Ladislaus Czech, O. F. M. Father Rembert Stanowski, O. F. M. Father Marcellinus Kollmeyer, O. F. M. (Parish was incorporated on September 26, 1895) Father Wegrzynowski, O. F. M. (First resident pastor - November, 1895, to June, 1897) Father Remigius Berendt, O. F. M. (July, 1897 to September, 1897, and December, 1897 to October, 1898) Father B. Radka (September, 1897 to December, 1897) Father Augustyn (diocesan priest) (November, 1898 to March, 1906) When Father Augustyn left, in March, 1906, again the Franciscan Fathers took over the parish to July, 1907. During this time the following Fathers were at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Krakow: Father Marian Glahn. Father Theobald Kalamaja, Father Rembert Stanowski, Father Ladislaus Czech, Father Cyrill Mitera, and Father Dionisius Czech. Father Paul Knappek (diocesan priest) (became pastor in July, 1907 and served the parish to September 1907) Father Edward Soliwoski (diocesan priest) (September, 1907 to March, 1956) Father Stefan Flisiak (diocesan priest) (April, 1956 to the present time) EVANGELICAL UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH This congregation was first known as the Fullerton Evangelical Church, later the United Evangelical Church and still later the Evangelical United Brethren (E. U. B.) Church. The Fullerton Mission was organized and made a part of the Platte River Conference held at Blue Springs, Nebraska, in 1900. Rev. L. G. Brooker, Conference Evangelist, held the first tent meeting in the 700 Block of South Broadway, resulting in a class of nine members. When the weather was too cold, the class was permitted to meet in the court house. Rev. Brooker was assisted in the early days by Brother Stimson and Sister Mary V. Hall. Under the pastorate of A. Essley, a church was built in Fullerton and dedicated on July 8, 1900. The Morning Star Church was built about two miles southwest of Fullerton on the Loup Valley road, and was dedicated on February 10, 1901. Bishop Dobbs was 81 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ the presiding officer at both dedications. Bishop Dobbs later was one of the missionaries to China. W. L. Dillow took charge of the Mission for nearly two years following the resignation of Rev. Easley. During those early years, numerous revival services were held to attract new members to the two churches. In 1903, Rev. E. E. McVicker became pastor for the two Mission churches. Rev. Charles Beller became pastor in 1904 resigning in December 1905 due to ill health. Rev. T.L.C. Suhr, who was soon to become a Missionary to China, replaced Rev. Beller. It was at this time that the Morning Star Church was closed. Rev. Lohr came to serve the congregation in 1906. During his pastorate he also had services in the Plum Creek School. Rev. T. M. Evans served the church from 1909 to 1912. Rev. Lohr returned in 1912 to serve until 1917. He no longer conducted services at the Plum Creek School, but instead went to the Mason schoolhouse, located southwest of town on the south side of the Loup River. In 1916, a new South Side Evangelical Church was dedicated by Bishop Swengel. It was constructed near the Otis Nesbitt farm for a cost of about $2,500 and was paid for entirely by the time of its dedication. Rev. Heiwitt was pastor for the churches from 1917 to 1918. When Rev. Lohr returned in 1918, membership in the church was 187, and $3,000 was raised to pay off the last debt. He served until 1922, when Rev. Garries became pastor. It was that year the church merged with the Evangelical Association. F. C. Ebinger was assigned as pastor in 1929. A small house next to the church had been purchased some years earlier for $1,300. It and the old [Image: Evangelical Church, Fullerton, Ne.] 82 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ parsonage were auctioned off for $265 and $250 respectively, and a new 8-room parsonage was built near the church. Mrs. Nye held a $700 mortgage at 3% on the indebtedness of the new parsonage. Rev. James Arnold served the church from 1931 to 1933. Wood cutting projects were held to provide fuel during the depression years so that money was available for church repairs and to pay the debt on the furnace. Serving from 1933 to 1935 was Rev. Marchand. Rev. Ahlers came to serve the church in 1935, but stayed only a short time because the climate did not agree with Mrs. Ahlers and they moved to California. Rev. Breaw came from North Dakota to fill the pastorate. In 1937, Rev. Milford Vance was assigned to the Fullerton and Fairview churches and served until 1944. The Fairview Church soon closed, and Rev. Vance held services at the North Star Church instead. A piano and chairs from the Fairview Church were brought to the Fullerton church to use in Sunday School work and for the Youth Fellowship. The South Side Church had already closed, but Rev. Longnecker, who formerly was in the ministry and resided in that area, continued to preach there. Mrs. Vance organized a large youth choir with the assistance of the Misses Ysobel and Janice Ridell. Mrs. Vance died of Addison's disease while residing in Fullerton, and Ysobel Ridell died about two years later from cancer. Janice Ridell later became a college teacher in California. Rev. F. C. Weber served the Fullerton and North Star churches in 1944 and 1945. He also served the Presbyterian congregation at Fullerton which was without a minister. During Rev. Weber's stay in Fullerton, a son was killed in World War II action in Germany. Many improvements were made at the Fullerton church and parsonage during Rev. Weber's pastorate. Leo Aldis Galloway donated a large Bible to the church. From 1945 to 1948, Rev. Thomas served the congregations. Many improvements continued. Special donations were made by Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Cunningham and the Louis Burger family. Rev. Swanson served the congregations for a short time during 1948. In October, of 1948, Richard Urbach, a student at York College, held weekend services at the two churches. Two more students, Jack Atkinson and Edgar Shrader, served the churches from 1951 to 1953. Rev. C. R. Anderson served the two churches from 1953 to 1956, and Rev. Bornemeier was the next minister, for a year, 1956-57. He enjoyed woodworking and made an altar for the Fullerton church and an altar and pulpit for the North Star church. In 1957, Rev. Jones was assigned to serve the two churches. Though reaching retirement age in 1962, he continued to serve as superannuated minister with reduced pastoral duties until 1969. Rev. Zemanek, a Methodist minister, became pastor in 1969 and served 83 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ the two churches until reaching retirement age in December of 1970. On February 9, 1971, District Superintendent C. Edwin Murphy presided at a special conference in regard to closing the Fullerton church. A decision was reached that a closing service would be held on February 21, 1971. This was the last service held in the Fullerton Evangelical United Brethren Church. At a later date, all E.U.B. congregations were united with the Methodist churches, and the union became The United Methodist Church. The Fullerton church parsonage was sold, and the church and grounds were given to the City of Fullerton for use as a museum. In May 1973, the museum was opened by the Nance County Historical Society and is supported by memberships and donations. The grounds are planted and maintained by members of the Fullerton Flower Belles. An iron fence, formerly on the old Memorial Hospital grounds in the west part of town, was moved by members of the Fullerton Lions Club and erected on the museum grounds. An old school house also has been moved to the museum grounds and restored. THE NORTH STAR CHURCH In 1894, Rev. J. W. Nye took up this appointment and called it the Fullerton Mission. The first class was organized on December 8, 1895, by Rev. T. J. Fink, the Platte River Conference Evangelist. It consisted of 40 members and was called North Star Mission. Rev. L. Lohr was the first pastor. In 1896-97, Rev. Ira McBride served as pastor. A church was built and dedicated on January 23, 1898, by Bishop Dubs of Chicago, as The North Star United Evangelical Church of Nance County, Nebraska. In that year, Rev. Fremont Devol was appointed to the mission and also took up another assignment 12 miles north of Fullerton. The parsonage was built during the 1899-1901 pastorate of Rev. George H. Stimson. Rev. Lohr returned to serve 1902-03, and Rev. Henry Wood was pastor from 1904-06. In 1907, Rev. E. L. Case was pastor. In 1908, Rev. Gumm was appointed but did not come to the work and Rev. W. T. Randolph was appointed to take charge. Rev. Randolph was returned to the field in 1909. Rev. McBride returned to served from 1910-13. It was during this period that in 1911 North Star Mission was made a Station. In 1912, a class of 35 members was organized as Mt. Zion United Evangelical Church of the North Star charge. A Union Sunday School also was organized at Pleasant Ridge schoolhouse with regular preaching services. From 1914 to 1916, Rev. H. C. Farley served the charge. In 1914, a porch was built on the church and a generator was installed 84 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ to provide lights. In 1916, the North Star Mission became self-supporting. During the same year the church was wired for electricity to be supplied from a nearby general store. On August 8, 1917, a severe hail storm broke all the windows on the north side of the church and destroyed crops over an eight mile strip. Rev. Lohr returned in 1917. The Mt. Zion class was discontinued. Rev. R. W. Garrison served from 1918-20. In 1919, the Belgrade class (Fairview) was added. Rev. R. S. Welch served from 1921-23, and Rev. C. F. Weidensaul came in September of 1923 to serve nine months. Rev. Lohr returned during 1924-25. In 1924, the garage was built, and in 1925 the church was remodeled at a cost of $2,500. Rev. S. M. Dillow was pastor in 1926. He also served Fairview, Belgrade. Serving from 1927-33 was Rev. F. H. Stevens. On October 31, 1928, the church burned to the ground. Services were held in the schoolhouse until a new church was constructed. The new church was dedicated on June 23, 1929, by Bishop M. T. Maze. In 1930, the parsonage was repaired and a new garage was built because of storm damage. During the pastorage of Rev. H. E. Kramer, 1934-35, a 36-inch church bell was dedicated on July 4, 1935. Rev. Howard Huddel served during 1936-37. In May of 1937, the Nebraska Conference had united this charge with Fullerton and was served by Rev. M. G. Vance. In succeeding years while the North Star congregation was served by pastors from the Fullerton church, numerous events occurred until 1971 when a merge was made to form the United Methodist congregation. In 1945, a 50th anniversary of the North Star church was observed with Bishop Stauffacher and District Superintendent Rembolt as guest leaders. In 1955, the parsonage was sold and the money received was used to remodel the church basement. New chancel furniture was secured and dedicated in May of 1957, and new hymnals were also purchased. On October 11, 1970, a 75th anniversary of the congregation was observed. [Image: North Star United Methodist Church.] 85 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ HISTORY OF THE FULLERTON CEMETERY ASSOCIATION (The following history of the Fullerton Cemetery was prepared from the records of the organization.) The first meeting for the organization of the Fullerton Cemetery Association was held on February 13, 1885. The organizers were Lewis Webb, James Fee, James Clayton, Clarence Brady and E. B. Spackman. About 10 acres of land were purchased west of Fullerton for the cemetery ground, and Mr. Brady and Mr. Spackman were the committee which laid out the grounds into nine blocks with an average of 70 lots to the block. Most of the lots were 15-25 feet, large enough for six graves. People were invited to move bodies from other cemeteries to the new cemetery and lots were offered at half-price for a limited period. The prices of lots were $10 and $15. Some bodies had been transferred from the Pleasant Valley cemetery to a location on the hill west of Fullerton and these were transferred to the new cemetery in 1895. Lewis Webb was the first president of the Association. Others who followed in this position through the years were M. B. S. Odell who served for over 30 years, Dr. F. W. Johnson, Frank G. Frame. M. C. Leach is president at this time. W. S. P. Eyler became secretary in 1923 and served until 1947 and J. P. Whitney was elected to the office. E. R. Tranbarger had been secretary since 1949. In 1899 it was decided to make an assessment of $2 a lot for the purpose of raising a fund for upkeep, for fencing the grounds and erecting a windmill and to pay a sexton on a part-time basis. George Harding was employed as the first full-time sexton, in 1916 at a salary of $60 per month. The complete fence and metal gates and arch were bought in 1917 at a cost of $467. Seeing the need for more funds, the Association amended their Constitution in 1917 providing for perpetual upkeep of lots upon the payment by the owners of $100 per lot. This replaced the annual assessment of $2 per year. This perpetual-care assessment was later reduced to $50 per lot. A small surplus accumulated in the treasury and this was placed at interest in certificates of deposit and government bonds. In May of 1928 some of the Liberty Bonds held were sold and proceeds invested in a first mortgage on land north of Fullerton in the amount of $4,000 at 6 per cent interest, 40 acres of the land taken over by the Cemetery board as the interest could not be collected. This made the total cost of the land $4,615 and it was sold later for $4,920. The proceeds were invested in U. S. Savings bonds. In 1927 five additional acres of land adjoining the Cemetery were bought from Mrs. Addie Scott for $1,250. This land is now being used as more space became necessary. Many of the old records were in incomplete form. Secretary, E. R. Tranbarger, began in 1949 the bringing of these records up to date. He also prepared a plat map showing the location, occupancy and ownership of all lots. This had been a long and difficult task in 86 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ searching the records, as some of the older graves were unmarked. A complete record of interments has been brought up to date and is now being kept. There are 4,000 burials that have been made since the Cemetery was started. This Cemetery now has probably as complete and accurate a set of records as will be found anywhere. In 1951, Ralph Cunningham was named sexton, replacing William Marshall who held the position for 22 years. Mr. Cunningham resigned and Floyd Schulte was named sexton. FULLERTON P. E. O. CHAPTER Chapter AG was organized on June 26, 1903, by Mrs. H. Grace Thomas, state organizer. Seven initiates and one dimitted member formed the Charter list. First officers were: Mrs. Ella Paton, president; Mrs. Elinor Kemp, vice-president; Mrs. Anna Barber, recording secretary; Mrs. Cora Harris, corresponding secretary; Mrs. Catherine Koch, treasurer; Mrs. Lillian Spear, chaplain; and Mrs. Olive Mangels, guard. Miss Ella Prentice, Chaper "T", Clay Center, Nebraska, was the dimitted member. AG's Charter was presented on June 8, 1904, during Nebraska Grand Chapter convention at Broken Bow. Since its organization, 111 women have been initiated into Chapter AG, and 14 members have been received by dimit. The March 1, 1972 membership list consists of 31 resident members, nine non-resident, and one inactive. Elinor Kemp was Nebraska state treasurer, from 1915 to 1917, and state organizer, from 1917 to 1919. She organized Chapters BX, Omaha; BY, Lincoln: BZ, Gordon; CA, Valentine; CB, Ravenna; and CC, Seward. Concerning her experiences she wrote, "I have traveled 5,645 miles in temperatures varying from 25 degrees below zero to 104 degrees above; trains late, but no matter what the weather or hour, always a smiling P. E. O. sister waited to welcome me. I have visited every Chapter in the state, and no finer women can be found anywhere." Chapter AG hosted the 26th annual convention of Nebraska Grand Chapter in June of 1915. State President, Miss Rose Owens, presided. Honor guests were Miss Edith Prouty, Supreme Chapter president; Mrs. Helen M. Drake, Supreme Chapter organizer; Mrs. Carrie M. Peterson, past president of Supreme Chapter; and two past presidents of Nebraska, Mrs. Ida B. Johnson and Mrs. Bertha Clark Hughes. Mrs. Bernice K. Tillet present custodian of articles of historical value was a convention delegate. Convention center was the Presbyterian Church, and delegates housed in private homes. Rain fell continuously during the convention, breaking a long Nebraska drouth. Humorous stories were told concerning long skirts trailing muddy, unpaved streets, and of B. I. L. drivers with cars bogged down while transporting P. E. O.'s to and from the train depot. In spite of the rain, a fine convention was reported. 87 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NANCE COUNTY POST OFFICES There is no complete history of the Fullerton post office. The first post office was established in the home now occupied by the Roger Brown family at the east edge of town. O.E. Stearns was the first postmaster and the post office was first known as the Cedar River post office. Uncle Sam refused to furnish a mail carrier but did allow the use of an old sack. Many citizens were sworn in as carriers but a Johnny Johnson did most of the service. Early in 1879, M. K. Steinbeck became postmaster and opened a flour, feed and grocery store in connection with the post office. In 1881, N. C. Judson carried a complete stock of groceries and had the post office connected with it. The order of succession of other postmasters is not established but names included W. C. Jacobsen, N. B. S. O'Dell, S. L. Sturtevant, L. W. Morgan, J. W. McClelland and Joe Storch. Charles Anderson was postmaster from 1917 until Frank Frame took over in 1921. Mr. Frame served until July 1, 1934, when Bryan Snyder became postmaster. Mr. Snyder served nearly 28 years, retiring on March 31, 1962. Lloyd DuRell was appointed acting postmaster and served until his death on April 22, 1965. Lawrence E. Wozniak was then appointed acting postmaster and was appointed postmaster on August 30, 1965, and is now serving. [Image: First post office which is now Coast-to-Coast store.] Various other post offices were established in Nance County during the winter of 1897. The Tekousha was established with Frank Hodges as postmaster. This was in Cedar township, near the District No. 53 school. The same year on April 15, Frank S. Guy received his commission as postmaster of the Red Wing post office which served the Timber Creek area. In 1880, Henry Knapp operated a post office and grocery store in the Pleasant Valley area. The building is now used as a grainary (sic) on the farm occupied by David Cunningham. It was known as the Omra 88 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ post office. The Olive post office, in the northwest corner of the county, was in operation from July 1884 to November 1902. Thomas O. McIntyre was the first postmaster. Mr. Brown was postmaster for the Glenwood post office and there was a post office near the District No. 5 school house called Lone Tree and one near the District No. 2 school house, called Westgard. Names of postmasters here are not available. FULLERTON LIONS CLUB The Fullerton Lions Club is the only service club in Fullerton. It was chartered on April 30, 1924, and was saluted for being the third largest club in Nebraska at that time. It has continued since, and currently has a membership of 35. Two of its members, J. R. Bitner and E. R. Tranbarger, served as Lions District Governors. Among the first projects planned by the club after being chartered were establishing a youth center clubroom and holding a banquet to honor the high school football team. Among other projects sponsored through the years were: promoting a successful movement for re-flooring the old Loup river bridge, assisting the American Legion in a drive for two carloads of foodstuffs for drouth areas, leasing a local football field in the community, sponsoring a testimonial dinner for an outstanding Fullerton citizen and promoting highway improvements. The Fullerton Club sponsored the organization of the Spalding and Albion Lions Clubs. It has sponsored Fullerton's Christmas Lighting Contests and been in charge of the distribution of Christmas treats for youngsters and food baskets for the needy and shut-ins for the holidays. In 1944, the club erected a military Honor Roll listing men and women serving in the Armed Forces during World War II. Also to aid the war effort, the club assisted farmers in the harvest fields because of a manpower shortage and sponsored a collection of scrap paper and metals. It has been the sponsoring organization in the Community for the Boy Scouts, backed proposals for irrigation projects, an airport, a swimming pool and contributed to landscaping grounds at the new municipal pool. The club has worked in cooperation with other communities in retaining mail service. The club has raised funds to fight polio, aided victims in a tornado stricken area, purchased a resuscitator for the swimming pool, collected discarded eye glasses for the needy and has participated in programs to supply dogs for training as Seeing Eye leaders. A major project has been a numbering system for houses and businesses and the installation of street markers in the business and 89 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ residential areas of Fullerton. After installing wooden street markers in the mid-1950's., the club, in the town's Centennial Year, has completed a project of replacing the wooden markers with metal glow-in-the dark signs. The project was done at a cost of over $3,500, plus a great deal of donated labor and supplies. The club had a special observance of its 50th anniversary in 1974. It is anticipated it will remain a viable part of the community in the years to come. FULLERTON PRODUCES A MASTER CRIMINAL Maybe there is something special about motivating young people who grow up in a small town, one of whose best-known "graduates" in a nationally-recognized practitioner in a difficult craft. Especially if the craft is counterfeiting! Not that Fullerton didn't produce other leaders; but William Watts, the counterfeiter, was in a class by himself. The lengthy story about his capture, in Newsweek Magazine dated September 30, 1935, said that Joseph Murphy, assistant chief of the U.S. Secret Service, exulted "because his agents, had, at last, captured the country's ace counterfeiter who was responsible for nearly $1,000,000 in spurious money -- second-greatest flood of 'queer' in the Treasury's records" (at least, up to that time ). Watts was so skillful that Henry Morgenthau, Secretary of the Treasury, fooled his underlings with it, as a training exercise. Watts' name and skill were known to the Treasury long before his capture. Nothing in his early background indicated that he might, some day, become a criminal. His parents were solid citizens, who lived unpretentiously in a two-story red brick house in the southwest part of Fullerton. One summer, when I was on vacation from Hastings College, I plowed their cornfield, for $2 a day, behind a one-horse walking cultivator. Newsweek observed that counterfeiting attracts strange recruits -- tearoom proprieters (sic), aviators, merchants, physicians, auditors and Sunday School teachers. Watts fit the pattern. Until 1920, he ran a drug store in Fullerton. The Secret Service traced his criminal career to prohibition, when he sold illicit liquor. He wanted fake labels for his bottles, so he learned how to engrave imitations. Before long, he discovered that the sideline was more profitable than bootlegging. Counterfeit money was the next easy step. According to Newsweek Watts mastered the technique so completely that experts had difficulty distinguishing his bills from real currency. To his pursuers, he long remained a phantom. He had no women friends, and no vices such as those which eventually betray most culprits. Of the small army of people who passed out his "queer", only the top men ever saw Watts. He was eventually cornered in Union City, New Jersey, after a clerk in an engraving supply house told Secret Service operatives that "there's a man buying engraving material; and he's not in the trade". At 7 o'clock on a September morning in 1935, federal agents tiptoed up to his door and knocked. To a sleepy, "Who's there?", Captain William Houghton, chief of the Secret Service's New York division, answered, "The milk man". The door opened. William Watts, alias E. A. Martin, alias E. A. McMillen, stared into the muzzle of a gun. But the Treasury Department had pounced on Watts too late to prevent Saratoga race track bookmakers from many dizzy spells. Throughout the 1935 Saratoga season, bogus money bombarded the bet takers, driving many of them out of business. Profits faded into heaps of worthless green paper. 90 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the haul when Watts was captured was a loaded 38-caliber pistol, $63,000 in fake 20's and 100's, engraving machines and presses, chemicals, inks, forged whiskey labels, fake Canadian liquor stamps, negative and plates for producing currency, an original device for imitating silken threads in bank notes and sacks of bill-sized paper. Even though the Watts capture was covered extensively in newspapers and magazines, and in "March of Time" on the screen, there was almost no awareness of it in Fullerton, Nebraska. Possibly this was a small town's way of protecting his modest and law-abiding family. Written by Dr. Frank McIntyre One final note on the William Watts story. When my English classes were gathering data about FHS graduates, to be published in an alumni directory in 1936, we listed (in his class of 1906): "pharmacist, address unknown". We didn't explain that he was in a federal penitentiary. THE "HORSE CREEK MURDER MYSTERY." Bizarre and notorious as it was, the Watts counterfeiting story wasn't the most sensational crime story in Fullerton's history. Years earlier (about the time I was born, in 1909, or earlier), the "Horse Creek Murder Mystery" broke, and provided lurid copy for periodicals and the press throughout the nation. My memory of this bloody story is fuzzy; and it is based on reading accounts in early issues of Fullerton newspapers. As I recall the details, five people in a single family were brutally murdered, on a farm on Horse Creek, about a dozen miles west of Fullerton. Some were shot with a shotgun; and at least one or two were bludgeoned, or axed, to death. One was slain in a hog lot, where the animals had consumed part of the corpse before a neighbor stumbled onto the scene of the massacre. A hired hand disappeared about the time of the murders. He was said to have rented a rig at a livery stable in Fullerton, and dropped out of sight forever. The two names associated with the crime were Percival and Furnival. I don't recall which was the name of the victims, and which was that of the suspect. At the time, newspaper accounts of the slaying gave complete, gory details of the scene and the principal characters in the drama. Years after the multiple murders on Horse Creek, the sheriff of Nance County (I believe that it was August Johnson, in the '30s) received a letter from California, asking if there were still a reward available to a person who submitted evidence leading to the arrest and conviction of the culprit in the "Horse Creek Murder Mystery" caper. Sheriff Johnson conducted a perfunctory "investigation" by letter, about the inquiry. No relevant details were disclosed. County officials weren't strongly motivated to follow a long-cold trail about a crime which had faded from memory years earlier. I was personally intrigued by this development; so I re-read old accounts of the ghastly crimes. As an English teacher, I was impressed by a unique style of expression, both in the letter to Sheriff Johnson and in a note written years earlier by the missing hired hand, published at the time when interest in the murders was high. I concluded that the writer of the letter in the '30s was actually the missing suspect. He is undoubtedly dead now. Whatever his involvement, he will have taken his secret to the grave. One small detail might be mentioned. In some of the newspaper accounts at the time of the Horse Creek murders, there was a suggestion that the hired hand had a secret "yen" for his employer's wife; and that the family of victims was related, remotly (sic), to English nobility. Written by Dr. Frank McIntyre 91 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Family Histories JOHN DUBAS SR. John Dubas, Sr. was born June 6, 1858, in Poland to Joseph Dubas and Marchiana Pyrchla Dubas. He came to the United States sometime before he was 18. He worked on the railroad at Duncan, NE and then farmed in Polk county. He moved to Nance county before 1897 to a sod house north of where Charles Lesiak's live now, east of Fullerton near the river. He married Marcyanna Iwan on February 6, 1888, at Duncan, NE. She was born in Poland in 1872. She came to the United States in 1878. Their children were Joseph, Frank, John, Adeline, born in the sod house east of Fullerton, and Mary also born in the sod house. Two children died in infancy. Marcyanna died in February 1900. John married Maryanna Bosak on July 29, 1900, and moved west of Fullerton in 1919 and then to the North Star area in 1911. He was naturalized a citizen September 14, 1906. They moved into Fullerton in 1936. Their children were Charles, Walter, Carroll, Henry, Sophia, Clara, Edward, Cecelia, Ellen, and Louis. Three children died in infancy. Maryanna (Bosak) Dubas died in 1948, and John Dubas died September 25, 1950. Joseph Dubas was born on December 6, 1888, in Platte County Ne. Monica Valeria Czapla was born on March 29, 1896, in Platte County, Nebraska. Their children are Frances, Mrs. Norbert (Valerie) Wozny, Joseph J. (deceased), Virgil, Anna and Raymond A., all of Fullerton. Marcyanna Mary Dubas was born on October 29, 1927 in Nance county Nebraska. She attended Fullerton public schools and graduated and took some education at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. She married Edward Frank Voichahoske on October 25, 1954, at Fullerton, NE. Their children are: Michael Edward, Nadine Marie, Allen Francis, Donald Joseph, Lori Susan, and Patrick Kevin. Frank Voichahoske was born on June 15, 1875, in Poland. He came to the United States and was naturalized on October 13, 1921. Catherine S. Malek was born on March 31, 1889, at Tarnov, NE. Their children are: Mary (deceased), Joseph of Belgrade, NE; Dennis M. Voichahoske, and Bernard Voichahoske of Fullerton; Esther Casey (deceased); Norbert (deceased); Alice (deceased); Elenore Nelson of Loomis, NE; Irma Jean Brown of Louisville, NE; and Edward Frank of Fullerton, NE. Edward Frank was born on June 4, 1922, at Raeville, NE. He attended rural Boone county schools and St. Edward high school where he received a diploma. Valeria Leona Dubas was born on May 26, 1920, in Nance county Nebraska. She graduated from Fullerton high school. She married Norbert Frank Wozny on June 24, 1942, at Fullerton, NE. Their children are: Roger Joseph, Brian Thomas, Rosalla Mae, Paul Edward, Mark Allen and Timothy Gene. THE McNEFF FAMILY The name McNeff according to our great grandfather, Thomas George McNeff is Scotch Irish. The Scotch Irish were people of northern Ireland, who were descended from Scotch settlers. Some of them migrated to the United States, before 1841. The earliest known facts about the McNeff family came from the 1850 census of Indiana from Morgan County, which lists Thomas McNeff age 49, occupation farmer. Value of real estate $4400, born in Kentucky and his wife Mahala R., age 37, born in North Carolina. Thomas George and his wife Mary (Foote) settled on a farm near French Lick, Indiana. Five children were born to them, Phillip, William Luther, Leon, Addie and Sadie. William Luther was born September 28, 1870. 92 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Their farm was a small one, partly wooded on which they raised mostly corn, tobacco, and a few pigs. They also had a few hounds. William said their living was mostly hand to mouth much of the time. The McNeff family moved to Nebraska in 1892 in time for the drouth year of 1894. They settled about 10 miles west of Fullerton. Thomas George went by the name of George. He always wore a moustache. He had a fine tenor voice and sang in the choir at the North Star Evangelical Church. He passed away in Fullerton in 1919. Unknown to his family he had been supporting a missionary in China and had not revealed this to his family even when they complained of being poor. After his death, the missionary society wrote asking why the support had stopped and so the family discovered. His son Phillip become a railroad station agent at Menona, Iowa. His sons William and Leon became farmers. One fall they were farming in Boone county Nebraska, and decided to burn a small area to pile their corn. They first got well prepared to put out the fire with wet sacks. When a large area had been burned William said, "That's big enough", "let's put it out". Just then a whirl wind came from no where twirled thru the fire and scattered it out across the prairie for a quarter of a mile. The resulting fire burned a lot of prairie and 40 hay stacks. It took 200 men to put it out. The owner of the hay stacks told William he would have to pay for the hay stacks. A very worried William went to see a lawyer and asked him "what'll I do, I don't have any money". The lawyer advised "Just stay away from him for a while and he'll forget it". Leon McNeff used to play the harmonica, also at community gathers at [Image: Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McNeff.] 93 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ rural District 50 school. In response to popular demand, he would play and sing folks songs and humorous songs for example, "With the wife's cold feet in the middle of your back, there's no place like home" & etc., also Jonah and the Whale. Some how William started a correspondence with Emma Somers, a housewife's helper in Denver, Colorado. They became engaged by mail, and he sold a load of pigs and traveled to Denver to marry her although they had never met face to face before. A humorous incident happened when they met. She said, "your teeth look like you chewed tobacco". (he did and never quit the rest of his life.) He answered "That's scurf", (scurf is a film, such as a film left by chewing tobacco). They were married in Denver, Colorado, October 9, 1899, and moved to the farm south of North Star presently owned by Robert McNeff. Emma Somers had been born in Chicago, Illinois and the family moved to Argonia, Kansas. Her parents were George Koahler Somers, who was born in Germany and Anna Katherina, whose maiden name was Aver, and who was born in Switzerland. They were married September 12, 1865, in Washington D. C., both members of the Presbyterian Church. George Koahler was a cabinet maker. He built bridges for the confederacy during the Civil War. His wife Anna came from a family of union sympathizers because among her daughter Emma's possessions was found a hand written copy of the "Battle Cry of Freedom" beautifully written and embellished with the design enclosing a sketch of an eagle and signed "Miss Aver, Washington, D. C. August 31, 1863". Mrs. Anna Somers visited in the home of her daughter Mrs. William McNeff many times as late as in 1920. William and Emma McNeff had eight children: Four boys and four girls. Muriel Ruth (Barnica), Fern Marie (McCray), George Edward, Vivian Luther, Marjorie Belle (Bennett), Lee Roy Jennings, Helen Cathrine (Grapes), and Raymond Arthur. In order to support a large family, William found it necessary to farm a large amount of land. The children grew up in an atmosphere of hustle and hard work. The boys especially had little time for play during the summer. However Sundays were for recreation and church going and the family always attended the North Star Evangelical Church. They were lucky to grow up in one piece. In a large family of eight it was hard to keep them out of mischief. For example Vivian was four when his father drove into the farm stead with a team of horses pulling a load of coal in the wintertime. Vivian ran to the moving wagon in an attempt to climb on the step. He slipped and fell and the wheel ran over his stomach. (He was after a sack of candy, which his father brought to be divided among the children). His father carried him to the house and told his mother, "I've killed Him" . . . but he was only knocked out, frozen ground had saved him. William used to play the violin. He could hear a piece of music at the Fullerton Chautauqua and go home and play it. The William McNeff Family lived on the farm South of North Star until 1911, where seven of the children were born. In 1911, they purchased the farm presently owned by Raymond McNeff and where Raymond was born. The reason being so the children would be close to school. The "L" schoolhouse was in a comer of the farm, where all the children attended and graduated from the eighth grade. They built the present house on the farm in 1917. A Gordon Van Line home, a precut house being shipped here in a railroad car, costing $1100 laid down. While living on this farm all the children attended Fullerton high school, and were married and established homes of their own. In 1936, they retired and moved into Fullerton, where they attended the Methodist Church. In 1940, they bought the Kemp house across the street from the Evangelical Church, now owned by Kurt Liesch. William McNeff passed away in Fullerton on September 16, 1954, at the age of 83 years, 11 months, and 18 days. Emma Sommers McNeff passed away in 1965 at the age of 90 years, 11 months and 28 days. 94 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ WOLTERS Herman John George Wolters came to the United States when he was five years old. He was born July 27, 1875, in Hamberg, Germany, to George and Katherine Marie Wolters. He married Matilda Marie Louise Schultze. To this union was born eleven children, Leo George, Irene Leona Johnson, Gladys Elizabeth Scofield, Gerald Fred, Harry David, Lawrence William, Frederich Schultze, Ernest Carl, Greda Marrie Denney, Vivian Rose Elmore. Marguerite Louise was born May 4, 1911 at Fullerton, Ne. She married Ernest Glenn Hopwood, on April 8, 1931, at Fullerton, Ne. To this union was born four children. Ruth Marie Hagman, now of Broken Bow, Ne; Glenn LeRoy, now of Colorado; Rolland Eugene, now of Missouri; and Patty Kay now of Grand Island, Ne. RUBEN DAVIS BUMGARDNER Ruben Davis Bumgardner was born November 27, 1848, at Otter Creek, Iowa. He married Justine Reynolds born February 13, 1850 at Linn County, Iowa. They were married April 2, 1871 at West Prairie, Iowa. They moved to Washington County, Nebraska in 1882, then came to Nance County in 1892 and lived on a farm 6 miles north west of Fullerton. They had four children: Preston L. Bumgardner of Ericson, Mary, Mrs. Miles Bishop of Fullerton, and Ida and Lenora at home. Ida and Lenora worked like men and did the farming. Their father, Ruben, died in 1919. His wife died September 5, 1934, at the age of 84 years. Ida and Lenora continued farming until 1944, when they had a farm sale and moved to Lincoln. They helped raise the 3 children left by Iva and Jess Richards. Ida did house cleaning in Lincoln for people. Lenora passed away in December 1952. Ida continued living in Lincoln until she came to Fullerton Manor in Fullerton to live in 1973. [Image: Ruben Dean and Justine Bumgarder (sic).] MILES LOFTUS BISHOP Miles Loftus Bishop, son of Robert and Elizabeth, was born near Graham, North Carolina on August 1, 1868. In 1895, he came to Nance county and lived on a farm 5 miles north west of Fullerton. He married Mary Jane Bumgardner on 95 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ April 7, 1896. To them was born 9 sons and two daughters. Preston Bishop of Belgrade, Alber of Greeley, Robert of Elba, Iva Richards of Cedar Rapids, and Earl, Roy, Jessie, and Alice Sidders of Fullerton. Three sons died in infancy. Miles lived on the same farm 62 years. In 1930 (August) he lost his wife and daughter, Iva, 3 days apart. A double funeral was held for both at the Methodist Church in Fullerton. Iva's husband, Jess Richards, was in an Omaha Hospital in critical condition with a broken leg and other injuries he received while going home from threshing grain near Cedar Rapids. He was riding a horse and leading another, when a car ran into him. He was so bad he didn't know about the deaths of his wife and mother in law for several weeks after. The three Richards children were raised by aunts, Ida and Lenora Bumgardner, who lived up a hill from the Bishop Home. The only survivors of the Bishop Family living now are Alice Sidders of Fullerton, Roy Bishop of Fullerton, and Robert Bishop of Omaha. Jessie Bishop was killed in World War II in France in 1944. His body was shipped back for burial two years later. Back row: Earl D. Bishop, Ivy I. Bishop, Albert Bishop, Roy M. Bishop. Front row: Alice May Bishop, Father, Miles L. Bishop, Robert N. Bishop, Mother, Mary J. Bishop, Woodrow W. Bishop, and Preston S. Bishop. MILFORD SIDDERS Milford H. Sidders and Alice May Bishop were married at York, Nebraska in 1933 and Phyllis Ann was born in 1935 at Fullerton, Nebraska. She married Tom E. Riggen in 1956 at the Methodist Church. They have one daughter, Jo Lynn, born in 1962 at Wichita, Kansas. Sharon Kay was born in Fullerton, Nebraska in 1946 and she married Jerry Horn in 1964. They had two daughters, Kelly Jo and Kristi June. In 1970, she married Richard Steckel and had a son, Bobbie. MICHAEL C. FITZGERALD Michael C. Fitzgerald came to the United States from Ireland when he was 16 years old with a brother. In 1876, he was united in marriage to Clara Mitchell of Champagne, Illinois. In 1888, they moved to this area with six daughters. Mrs. Fitzgerald died in 1943. The family lived on a farm just north of Fullerton before retiring to Fullerton. 96 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Image: Michael and Clara Fitzgerald] The Fitzgerald Children are listed below with their families. MABEL (1877-1976) Married William E. Smith Three sons: Cecil of Dunning, Nebraska married Nellie Castle of Fullerton. They had 4 children, among whom is Paul Smith of Fullerton. He married Fern Sonderup and they have 5 sons. Forrest (deceased) had 2 children. He married Irene Finch of Fullerton. Bay (deceased) single Second Marriage Married R. L. Workman 1 daughter Geraldine (Mrs. Thomas Hughes) She had 2 children. NELLIE M. (1879-1949) Married N. L. Crawford Three Children Harold (deceased) single Lynn (deceased) 2 children Mildred (Mrs. Archie Stalnaker) 4 children ESTELLA (1881-1974) Married Marshall Jennings, died 1935. Four Children. Vera ( Mrs. John Wolles) 3 sons (John Deceased in 1979) Clarence, married Myrtle Jenning Hazel. Deceased 1978 Married Dexter J. Hoy Deceased 1966. They had 3 children: Alvin, married Phyllis Grotelueschen of Fullerton. They have 5 children. Fredabelle, married Max Swanson, Belgrade. They have one daughter Billy W. Married, US Navy Career Bethel, (Mrs. Frank Hoefer) McAllen, Texas Mr. Hoefer is deceased. ETHEL: (1883-1965) Married Albert Pepper Two daughters Mrs. Irene Hust, Fullerton Lucille, Married Frank Kimble, Fullerton. 97 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ EDITH: (1885-1947) Married Will Minor Six Children Clifford, Ona, Gerald, Evelyn (deceased) Ron and Maxine INA: (1887-1977) Married Laird Cordell Sidders Three Children: Milford: Married Alice Bishop, two daughters. Helen, married Roy Bishop, three children. Genevieve: Married Harold Anderson, 4 children. JAMES REED James Reed was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Reed. He was born June 3, 1884, at Harlan Iowa. He attended a country school near Harlan. He with his parents came to Fullerton, in 1905, by covered wagon. He married Lela Main at Columbus, Nebraska on April 2, 1910. Lela Main, the third child of Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Main was born February 19, 1884, at Lamont, Iowa. At the age of four she moved with her parents by covered wagon to the vicinity of Kimball, South Dakota in 1888. In 1889, she accompanied the family to move to the farm near Belgrade, Nebraska. She attended school at Kimball and also at Belgrade. In 1907, she moved with her family to Custer county, Nebraska. She and Mr. Reed had met while she with her parents were living near Belgrade, and he was farming and living in the vicinity with his parents. In April, 1910, he journeyed to Custer County and they returned to Columbus by train to be married. They then lived on several farms in Nance County. Later they became owners of their own farm. Their two children were Doris Reed (Hawthorne) of Fullerton, and Vane Reed of Grand Island. In 1952, Mr. and Mrs. Reed retired from farming and bought a home in Fullerton. He was employed part-time by Dr. B. W. Kramer, a veterinarian. Mr. Reed passed away May 25, 1957 and Mrs. Reed passed away November 24, 1973. [Image: Mrs. James Reed, James Reed, Vane Reed and Davis Reed.] CHARLES HAWTHORNE Charles Hawthorne and Doris Reed were married August 3, 1928, at Columbus Nebraska. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1978. They farmed until 1939, when they moved into Fullerton, where Mr. Hawthorne 98 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ did commercial trucking and later had his own cornsheller and picker sheller. He retired in 1972. They are the parents of 5 children, several grandchildren and a great grandchild. Their children are: Mrs. Vivian Kolm, Cedar Rapids, Nebraska Mrs. Bernadine Batenhorst, Cedar Rapids, Nebraska Lyle Hawthome, Dumas, Texas Russell Hawthome, Albion, Nebraska Larry Hawthorne, Fullerton, Nebraska Charles Hawthorne was born to Mr. and Mrs. George Hawthorne near Silver Creek, Nebraska, April 10, 1904. He attended a public school near his home and worked on the Merchiston Ranch and later the Kent and Burke Ranch. Doris Hawthorne was born to Mr. and Mrs. James Reed on February 17, 1911 in Boone County. She with her parents moved to a farm in Nance County in 1913. She was enrolled in the Cradle Roll Sunday School Class, held at the Merchiston School house. Mrs. George Hoag was Cradle Roll Superintendent and Will Hilton Superintendent of the Sunday School. She also attended the Merchiston School until in 1924, the family moved to District 20. [Image: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hawthorne's 50th Anniversary] GEORGE ALBERT UZENDOSKI George Albert Uzendoski was born in Poland in May 1879. He came to the United States with his parents when he was 7 years old. Michael and Agnes Barzz Uzendoski along with Brother Pete and sisters Anna, Catherine, and Mary settled near Duncan area. George Uzendoski married Bernice Knopick at Duncan, Nebraska and moved south east of Fullerton, and later in 1918, moved to Reimers Ranch, which has been the Family Home since. Six Children were born to them: They are: Helen Uzendoski Micek, Mrs. Joe Micek Marion Uzendoski Stetz, Mrs. Frank Stetz Natalie Rose Uzendoski, Mrs. Ed Ksiazek 99 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sr. M. Alberta (Monica) Sgt. Stanely Albert Uzendoski Mike Uzendoski married Rose K. Choyeske Mike and Rose now live on the home place. Their children are as follows: Natalie Rose, Married Robert A. Sobraske Emily June Uzendoski, PHD Education Dr. Donald M. Uzendoski, Children specialist Michael S. Uzendoski, Dr. Rep. IFG Leasing Co. Virginia Lee Uzendoski, Rinkevich Michelle Ann Uzendoski SHOTKOSKI The family most familiar to your area would be the Shotkoski's. The name was originally spelled SZATKIWSKI. I do not know when Gregory and Agatha Szatkowski came to the United States, but they evidently lived around the Krakow area in the early 1900's. Their son, Andrew, later known as Henry, was born in Pilzno, Poland in 1855/6. Most of the information I have about him can be found in his obituary. He came to America at the age of 24 and worked with the railroad in Kansas, Colorado and Nebraska. In 1884/5 he married Sophia Paproski at Tarnov, Nebraska. Sophia Paproski's family was from the Columbus area. Her parents Andrew J. and Mary Anna Galus came to the United States in 1874 with their three oldest children, and continued to raise a large family. Sophia was born in Tarnov, Poland in 1869. [Image: Henry and Sophia Shotkoski] Andrew, or as he was better known, Henry, and Sophia had 12 children - ten of whom lived to maturity and had families of their own. Frank, born 1886 - died May 1979 Joe, born 1887 - died August 1979 George (Albert), born 1891 - died February 1976 Mike, born 1893 - died October 1975 Mary (Mrs. Frank Torson), born 1895 James, born 1897 Henry, born 1899 John, born 1902 Vera, born 1904 (Mrs. Alex Sliva) Edith, born 1909 (Mrs. Joe Krzycki) (All of these children were born in Nance county, Nebraska.) Most, if not all of these children, raised their families, or at some time lived in Nance county. BOROWIAK The Borowiak family is also well-known in the area. Evidently there were two men by the name of Martin Borowiak, but I have not been able to determine if the younger Martin (who we trace to) is in fact the son of the older 100 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ one. Martin and his wife Katherine Tomelski, came to America in 1879. Three of their children - Sylvester born in Austria/Poland; and Victoria and Anton, born in Nebraska - grew to adulthood. Martin was naturalized a citizen of the United States on September 21, 1906. In 1900 the Martin Borowiak family lived on a farm in Prairie Creek Township, Nance county. Victoria Borowiak, daughter of Martin, received her early education in schools near Genoa, Nebraska. She married John Krzycki in 1905. Three of their five children were born in Nance county (Lonnie, Edwin and Louie). Barbara (Mrs. John Shotkoski) and Joseph, even though they were born in Platte county, lived for many years in Nance county. FISHER Jennie Fisher, the third daughter of Mary Francis and Bailows Fisher, was born near Big Rock in Scott county Iowa on November 15, 1879. She grew to womanhood in Iowa and moved with her family to Jewel County, Kansas on November 30, 1898. She married W. E. Allington at Mankato, Kansas. Except for a short period in Iowa the family lived on farms in Kansas until 1928 when they moved to Nebraska where she had since resided in the North Star and Fullerton areas. The couple observed their 50th wedding anniversary in 1948. W. E. died March 10, 1954. Their children, Lela Swanson, Irene Porter, Clyde, Orvill, Ruby Ostrander, Guy, Cecil, Peral Gleason, Glenn, Mildred Sharman now deceased. Jennie died November 15, 1978 at 99 years old. WOZNY Norbert Frank Wozny was born July 16, 1912 in Nance county Nebraska to Francis Steven and Josephine F. Nowicki Wozny. He attended rural Nance county schools. He married Valeria Leona Dubas on June 24, 1942 at Fullerton Nebraska. They have farmed in Nance county. Norbert has three brothers, Louis S, retired farmer of Fullerton NE, Bernard L., Auditor, Grand Island, NE and Raymond W. of California. Norbert and Valeria have six children, Roger, Brian, Rosella Mae, Paul, Mark and Timothy. HUBERT McCRAY Hubert McCray was born September 2, 1887 at Rising City, Nebraska, to Robinson and Frances McCray. In 1905, he came with his family to Nance county, where they engaged in farming. He married Hattie M. Stark on February 28, 1917, at Wolbach, Nebraska. After their marriage, they made their home on the family farm near Fullerton. On September 12, 1957, Mr. McCray passed away. Mrs. McCray continues to live on their farm with their son, Robert. Mr. and Mrs. McCray had six children: Everett of Fullerton, Doris (Berney) of Arvada, Colorado, Louise (Wondercheck) of Fullerton, Robert of Fullerton, Leila (Cyza) of Alliance, and Kenneth of Wolbach. LEONARD WONDERCHECK Leonard Wondercheck and Louise McCray were married on October 11 1943. They have four children: Lana, married Michael Gonsior of Central City. They have two children Scott and Shelli. They live in Fullerton. Ronald married Sharlene Jarecke and live in Columbus, Nebraska. They have two children: Terra and Ryan . Harold lives in Fullerton and Wayne lives in Fullerton. He is married to Evelyn Urkoski and have two daughters, Renee and Jessica. I. A. NILES I. A. Niles and wife Mary (Waln) Niles came from Riceville, Iowa to Fullerton, Nebraska in 1894 with their four children, Ruth, Edwin, Blanche, and 101 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ranson. They settled on a farm 1 1/2 miles south of Fullerton consisting of 320 acres, 160 acres farmland, and 160 acres pasture reaching to the Loup River. 1894 was the year of the drouth and there was a complete crop failure in Nance county. This meant a very difficult time for the Niles family. They came in a covered wagon with as little in furnishings as they could possibly get along with. In 1899, Sarah (Niles) Anderson was born on the farm South of Fullerton. I. A. Niles and wife paid for that farm South of Fullerton, had good equipment, had built on to the house and I. A. had gone into the thoroughbred Belgian horse business. He had plenty of those 2000 lb. horses. Some purebreds and some halfbreeds. I. A. Niles had an Uncle (Nat Niles) living South of Fullerton before he came to Nance county. They sold the farm in about 1917 and bought the residence and acreage in the northwest part of Fullerton from Mrs. Critchfield and moved to town bringing 1 team of Belgian mares, a wagon and a little more equipment. That place now belongs to Miss Levetta Hosler. It was a great place for Junior and Senior parties in 1917 and 1918. GEORGE HAWTHORNE George Hawthorne and Clara Parker were married October 28, 1889 at the home of her grandparents near Silver Creek, Nebraska. Mr. Hawthorne was born to Mr. and Mrs. George Hawthorne, Sr., August 7, 1868 at Lexington, Illinois. He came with his family by covered wagon when he was sixteen years old to Nebraska. They settled near Silver Creek. He bought land and built the building. After he and his bride were married, they lived there and raised nine children. In the spring of 1918, they sold the farm and bought land near Big Sandy, Montana. The family moved, shipping their livestock, machinery, and automobile by rail. The father and boys rode in the stock car with the livestock. The mother and daughters rode in the passenger coach. [Image: George and Clara Hawthorne, 50th wedding anniversary.] Due to the mother's health, they moved back to Nebraska, and farmed in Nance and Howard counties. Their youngest daughter was born during this time. They moved into Fullerton in 1931. Mrs. Hawthorne was born to Mr. and Mrs. Willard Parker at Lebo, Kansas, September 22, 1886. Besides raising a large family, she helped in homes caring for the sick and assisting deliver the new babies. She operated a nursing home in Fullerton for several years. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on October 28, 1948, at their home. She passed away August 21, 1972, and he passed away July 2, 1954. Their children are: Mary Meyer, Earl Hawthorne, Charlotte Eckstrom, Lilly Rodwell, Charles, Clifford, Sam, Lavern, and Cecil. George Hawthorne, III passed away in 1968. 102 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ BRIDGLAND William David Bridgland was born November 27, 1860 in Tippecanoe county, Indiana. In 1879 his family moved from Iroquois county Illinois to Nebraska. The first four years was on a farm on the Loup Valley about 10 miles Southwest of Fullerton moving from their farm near North Star were they had resided. Augusta Bridgland was born January 2, 1874 or 77 at Calhoun, Nebraska. To William and Augusta were born six children. Arthur Paul, Jessie, Frances, Esther, Viola and Thomas, now deceased. Arthur Paul was born May 13, 1897 at Fullerton, Nebraska. He was educated in District 50 from 1904 to 1912. He worked as a mechanic for Nelson Barber and Sheaff & Sons and later farmed. He married Dora Elizabeth Taylor on March 3, 1920 at Central City, Nebraska. They moved to Benson, Minnesota where they still reside. They have two children. Darwin Arthur married Lucy Marie Cox in St. Edward, Nebraska. They live on a farm in Benson, Minnesota and have three children. Edward Richard married Barbara June Williams. They have three children. [Image: Daniel and Ann Bridgland] TAYLOR Isaac Taylor was born September 20, 1855 in Preston, England. He came to the United States in 1884 at the age of 29. On April 28, 1887 he was married to Dorothea Winchester in Illinois. In 1888 they moved to Fullerton, Nebraska where they had 10 children. Alice H. Scott, now of Grand Island, George T. Taylor, now deceased, Margaret A. Campbell, now deceased, Lena M. Bosselman, deceased, Edward O. Taylor, deceased, James I. Taylor, deceased, Dora E. Bridgland, deceased, Mary E. Dodds of Mesa, Arizona, Martha M. Jackson Ericson, Nebraska and Iva M. Gordon, Omaha, Nebraska. Dorothea Winchester Taylor died July 20, 1904 in childbirth. Isaac died near Ord, Nebraska December 9, 1931. CHARLES H. ADAMS Charles Henry Adams and Cornelia Frances Flasher were married August 8, 1866 by a Methodist minister in Troy, New York. They came to Fullerton in the early 1880's. Their children were: Charles William, 1867, Troy, New York, 103 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert Grant, 1870, Troy, New York, Julia Estelle, 1872, Troy, New York, Maude Alice, 1874, Troy, New York, Ruth Emma, 1877, Troy, New York, Florence Jessie 1879, Troy, New York, Chester Arthur, 1881, Troy, New York, Mable Grace, 1883, Troy, New York, Evangeline 1886, born in Nance county Cedar Township. Mrs. Adams died on September 12th at the age of 43 years, 7 months. She is buried in the Fullerton Cemetery. Charles was a postal clerk in Troy, New York. In Fullerton he drove a bus from depot, was custodian of church, choir singer and mail carrier north of Fullerton. Charles married Mary Alice Gleason. Their children were Mildred, now living in Orange, California, Dorothy living in York, Nebraska, Evertt deceased, Merion living at St. Edward, Ralph living at 29 Palms California. Bertha Esther was born April 19, 1899 at Fullerton, Nebraska. She was educated in the Fullerton schools and became a teacher and taught 1916-1917 in Greeley, Colorado. She married Harvey H. Allard on September 2, 1917 at Fullerton, Nebraska. She now lives in Wolbach, Nebraska. Mildred went to school in the third grade in the old Methodist Church, while the present church was being built. Jessie Kriedler was the teacher. Chester Adams, son by a first marriage, fought in the Spanish American War. Everett Adams was in the 2nd World War and fought under General Patton. Charles Allard Grandson of Charles Adams fought in the Second World War. Robert, son of the 1st marriage was the first minister and started the Methodist Church. Mrs. Allard could not find any record about the store. She said "He may have helped his son Will Adams get started. The Store Building was just south of the Fullerton National Bank and was called the Racket Store. Mrs. Allard has four children. Lucille Viola born May 13, 1919 in Greeley county; Charles Nelson born May 3,1920 in Greeley county; Aleatha Mary born on November 29, 1922 in Fullerton, Glenn Harvey born January 19, 1924 in Fullerton. [Image: Charles and Mary Adams] WILLIAM P. HATTEN William Price Hatten was born in Atchinson county Northern Missouri on November 5, 1861. He came to Nance county in 1889 in the fall with his wife Emma Houts Hatten who was in poor health. They came because of her health, they thought the climate would be better. They had lost a son prior to the move. They camped in the yard of S. H. McClure three miles northwest of Fullerton. The next fall Emma went back to visit her folks in northern Missouri and took sick and died on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1890. Mabel Hatten Hess was born February 4, 1890 on a farm three miles north of Fullerton and after her mother died, her grandmother Mrs. W. H. Hatten of Hamburg, Iowa came and took her back to Missouri. William Hatten married the second time in 1893 to a niece of S. F. Rolph, who was in the grocery business in Fullerton. Bell Fisk was a teacher from near Clarks and she had come to this area from Olean, New York. To William and Bell there were four children born: Dean Allen, married Lillian Blaufield, Fred Everett, married a Cedar Rapids girl, Leta King, Richard Fisk, married a Denver girl and Louise. Louise was killed in an automobile 104 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ accident in New Mexico. Mabel had come back from Iowa and lived with them in 1900. William was elected county Treasurer and was later employed in the Fullerton National Bank where he was an officer for many years. Mabel was married on January 13, 1915 to Carl Henry Hess, by Rev. W. H. Cooper. His daughter Audrey played the piano during the ceremony. A few close friends were there and a wedding breakfast was served by her parents. Mabel later operated what was formerly the Adams Racket Store and called it the Hess Cash Store. They sold a few groceries, work shoes and novelties. In 1927 Carl bought a cabin out of the park at the cost of $50 and the moving cost more than the cabin. He installed one machine, mammoth incubator with a capacity of 12,000 eggs. Only one third were set at a time, so it was a continuous operation. It was increased to 36,000 later. Carl died October 31, 1954. He was operating the Fullerton Hatchery. Carl belonged to Masonic Lodge 191. Carl and Mabel belonged to the Presbyterian Church and Order of Eastern Star. They had hoped for children but none came so they filled their home with teachers and office workers until salaries were much higher. Inez Rundall Cradick made her home with the Hess's during the four school years of high school and that was her weekend home during the four years she taught school in Nance County. Done Rundall stayed a short time as did Tom Rundall. JULIAN M. BROWER Family of Julian Martin Brower as recalled by daughter, Maree Brower Cooper. Julian was born in August, 1887. He was the second child, first son, of Martin I. Brower and Ella Clark Brower. He graduated (or not?) from Fullerton High School in 1905. He with other members of his class refused to give an oration at that time required of all graduating seniors. In this stance he evidently had the support of his father, however, diplomas were withheld from those not giving orations. After leaving school he was taken on a long trip to the west coast by his father. The two of them traveled extensively in California that summer (one year before the San Francisco earthquake of 1906) visiting friends and relatives as they went. Julian worked one year near Worland, Wyoming, on land owned then by his Father. He returned to Nebraska to attend Business College in Lincoln. Later he became associated with his father in the Fullerton National Bank, becoming president of that bank upon the death of his father in 1920. He served as president 36 years retiring in 1956. Julian married Elsie Nissen of Aurora, Nebraska, in 1916. Elsie had been employed as clerk and buyer for the Krasne Department Store in Fullerton. They had two children: Maree 1917, Robert 1919. Robert attended University of Nebraska where he studied petroleum geology. He left school a few units short of graduation to enlist in the Navy Air Corps, when it had become apparent that the United States was about to become involved in World War II. He served in the States, in the Aleutians, and was later based on Okinawa. His plane was shot down off Okinawa in the summer of 1945. He had met and married Ben Rockefeller of Seattle Washington, while he was in the States. Their son, Peter Robert, born to them December 1944, was never seen by Bob. Maree attended the University of Nebraska, and graduated from Hastings College, Hastings, Nebraska summa cum laude. She served with American Red Cross overseas during World War II: New Guinea, Biak, The Philippines, Japan. She returned to get her Master's Degree in Social Group Work at Western Reserve University,Cleveland, Ohio. She married Eugene L. Cooper, son of Leland and Hattie Cooper of Fullerton, Nebraska, in 1950. They had three children: Robert Jean, 1952, Sandra Maree, 1955, Michael Julian, 1958. Their family moved to Fremont, California, 1960. Elsie died in 1962. Julian now lives in Fremont, California, near the home of his daughter. November, 1979. 105 ------------------------------------------------------------------------