Beckham County, OK - Obits: Thomas Tyler Wier, 1929
Friday, 20 February 2009
Submitted by: delma25@pldi.net (Delma Tindell)

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WIER, THOMAS TYLER
(17 Dec 1929, Elk City Newspaper, Elk City, Beckham Co, OK):
OLDEST SETTLER DIES AT LEEDY
Thomas Tyler Wier Saw 100 Years of History In the Making
One of western Oklahoma's oldest settlers and citizens passed with death
of Thomas Tyler Wier, 100, at Leedy.  Mr. Wier was known by people all
over Custer county and by many "along the road" down into this county. 
Watching a century of history develope (sic) he was one of the most
interesting characters in this section of the country.
He was born in Armaugh, Ireland, May 1, 1829.  When he was 21 he came to
America, and was married to Miss Melinda Trotter on June 7, 1859.  In 1867
he and his wife and three children moved to South America.  He returned to
the states in 1869 and settled in Gallatin, Mo.  In 1899 he moved to
Oklahoma and settled on a tract of land near Leedy, where he lived until
the time of his death.
Old Mason
With his passing the Masonic order lost one of its oldest members.  He
joined that organization 60 years ago and during his membership he held
every office in a local lodge.  He was active in all the affairs of the
organization and was considered a most valuable member.  He was converted
to the Christian faith in 1871 and affiliated with the Baptist church.  He
was known by church members all over this part of the state, and his
interest in the Scriptures was surpassed by few, the pastors say.
Mr. Wier could recall colorful days of American history and thrill
newcomers to this territory with thrilling tales of the early settlers. 
He could remember Indian raids, and Cowboy days, gunfights and all the
perils of the past.  He knew eminent men and could speak of historic
characters as if they were friends.  He was truly a man of adventure and
interest.
Saw Wagons Freight
In his later years when he moved to his claim near Leedy he saw commerce
connected with Elk City and Weatherford when teams were used to haul
supplies from these posts back to his section of the country.  That was in
the days before the branch railroads served the smaller places in the
"territory."  Interesting, picturesque, valiant and active until the last
he was one of the colorful citizens of the West.
Surviving him are seven children, 25 grandchildren, and 15 great
grandchildren.  Funeral services were held in the New Harmon cemetery
(Custer County) with Rev. J. F. Curtis, of Hammon, officiating with the
Masonic Lodge of Moorewood presiding.

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