HICKMAN COUNTY, TN - NEWSPAPERS - Hickman Pioneer, 1878
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THESE ARE ARTICLES TAKEN FROM THE "HICKMAN PIONEER" NEWSPAPERS FOR THE YEAR 
1878.   DURING THIS TIME, SOMEONE FROM THE COMMUNITIES WOULD WRITE ARTICLES
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY.  THE WRITERS NAMES WERE FICTITIOUS.  THE ARTICLES 
INCLUDED ARE FROM THE COMMUNITIES OF SWAN CREEK;  "SUNRISE",  "SWAN", "SWAN
BLUFF", ETC.    
Prepared by Ova Lee Sawyer    OLSawyer@aol.com


FEBRUARY 8, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   A short time since, a quilting or singing party, was given at the residence
of Mr. B. P.  A delicious supper spread, to which the young folks did
ample justice.  About seven o'clock, Prof. Shires, of Texas, took the floor,
to lead in singing, and soon all other noise was drowned by the sweet
vocal music of the young ladies and gentlemen.   'Twas on this occasion
your correspondent saw the idol of his heart.
      May Friendship's flowing wreath entwine, It's sweetness on her brow;
       Not like the flowers of Time, With passing years depart.
  They have the spelling match very badly, hereabouts.  They spell every
Friday night, at the Camp-ground church.
   Mr. Bumpass, a professor of penmanship, from Lawrence county,
delivered a lecture, last Saturday night.  Hope he will get up a school here.
   A very large bald eagle was seen in these parts a few days since.
   Would like to ask the following co-nundrums:  If five and a half yards
make a perch, how many will make a trout?  If two hogsheads make a
pipe, how many will make a cigar?
   A farmer, who had sent some peanuts to a warehouse, instructed a
merchant to have them sold.  The merchant complied with the instructions,
and the staple was disposed of.  The farmer, upon examining the
statement, was heard muttering to himself, "dray-age, wharf-age, mistake-
age, store-age, leak-age, weigh-age.  Well; I'll take balance out in fight-
age."
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


FEBRUARY  15, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   On last Friday night threatening thunder was heard to roll across the
heavens, with flashing lightnings, and on Saturday we had a heavy fall of
hail.
   Prof. Hull's child died last week, near Palestine.
   The people seem to be pleased with Prof. Bumpass' instructions on
penmanship.  He has 48 pupils in attendance, and his school will close on
the 15th. inst.
   Prof. Shires sang for the people of Centre church on the 10th.  Had a full
attendance.  All present seemed to enjoy themselves.
   It is said that the Professor will give instructions, on the round-note
system, to the people of Centre.
   There has been some such talk as Mr. John Burcham starting to Texas
about the first of March.
   Prof. Bumpass will, on Friday night of the 15th inst., give an exhibition
on penmanship.
   There was a young gentleman went to see his sweetness, and his mule
got out of the stable and came home.  The young man arrived at home next
morning with flakes of ice hanging to his pants.  She lived on the opposite
side of the stream, and there being no foot-log or bridge, you may guess
the rest.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


FEBRUARY  22, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   Parson Taylor delivered an excellent sermon on last Sabbath to the
people of Campground church.  Text, 1st. Corinthians, 1st. chapter, 17th.
verse.
   The new road leading from Mr. Whitesides to Cathey's creek,  will be
opened soon.  It will be the best road leading from Swan to Columbia, also
the most direct route to the sulphur springs from Columbia.
   Mr. Sim Peery, from Kentucky, is visiting relatives in old Hickman.  He
was raised in this county.
   Prof. B. M. Grimmitt has made his appearance on Swan again.
   Prof. Bumpass will continue his school at Centre for five or ten days.
   Rev. Tyler is teaching penmanship at Bethel church, on Cathey's creek. 
Some of our lads will be in attendance this week.
   Uncle Robison tells a good hydra story.  He says George Harvill told
him while he resided in Illinois, he carried his water a half-mile in a sack.
   He sat alone in her father's parlor, waiting for the fair Miss to put in her
appearance, the other evening, when her little brother came cautiously into
the room and glided up to the young man's side and held out a handful of
something and earnestly inquired:  "What are these?"
  "Those," replied the young man solemanly, taking up one in his fingers,
"those are beans."  "There!" shouted the boy, turning to his sister, who
was just coming in, "I knew you didn't know you said he didn't know
beans, and he does, too!"  The young man's stay was not what you might
call a prolonged one that evening.
   As there are several candidates out and around electioneering, I will
announce three more.  For matrimony Prof. J. S. Shires, S. N. Gillmore
and Henry Willis.  They mean business.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MARCH  1, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   On Saturday evening last, the sunshone out bright and beautiful;  the
birds sang their sweet songs for the pleasure of seeing the beautiful
sunshine again that lights this mundane sphere and shows the approach of
spring.
   Yes, Y.M.C., here you are.  I am happy to find a man who will enlighten
us so much, by telling us that minnows make trout.  I guess you have been
a minnow, and know;  perhaps you are a sucker, now.  As to the cigars, I
think after a few, like myself, and a few old stumps that had been smoked
like you, would complete the job.  As I do not shoot buck-shot at mice and
small insects, I will say no more about it.
   The candidates of recent announcement propose to "treat" on artifical
kisses, for a while, then be treated with real kisses.
   J. C. Duncan caught a mink last Friday night.
   We will have a new comer, soon, from Lewis county.  He is a good
violinist.
   The health of the community is very good, except bad colds.
   There was some plowing done in this part of the county, the first of last
week, which looks like farming.
   Prof. B. M. Grimmitt will start West, this week, where he has been
teaching Lightning Calculation or short hand Arithmetic.
   The new road is completed.
   People have begun to fish.
   Messrs. Sharp & Smith threshed out some oats, last week, for Mr. R.
Whitesides.
   What has become of our circuit rider?  He has not preached for us since
Christmas.  I hope he is not still lost.  There have been two large
congregations met, at different times, to hear him preach, but were
disappointed.  Brother Warren, we say come!
   We would be pleased to have any preacher to come and preach for us.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MARCH  8, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   On last Friday and Saturday we had high winds.  Saturday they were
exceeding high.
   I am happy, as a citizen of Hickman to know that a steamer has visited
her county-seat.  That speaks and tells the farmers of old Hickman that
they will soon have a market at home for their produce.  Soon we will
have a railroad and then I hope to see everything move on as in sister
counties.  I am one old Maury's sons, and hope to see churches and
school-houses erected, competent teachers employed at our schools, and
have good preachers to preach at our churches.  Let us no more be called
"goober-grabblers," but a people who are inclined to push forward.  We
can boast, now, and say we have steam navigation, which some of our
sister counties have not, nor never will have, and we will also have rail
transportation.  Farmers!  Now is the time to stir;  let no idle moments
pass, but improve them in all affairs.  There is room for improvement, in
many respects, so let us endeavor to avail ourselves of all opportunities
that will lead us on and up.  
   G. W. Harden has paled in his front yard.
   R. D. Clark has taken in ten or fifteen acres of new ground.  That shows
industry.
   Wm. Aydelotte sailed for Graves county, Ky., last Monday week, with
Mr. Sim Peery.
   John Smith, of Indian creek, Lewis county, and Miss Mollie Peeler of
Beaver Dam, were united in the bonds of matrimony, last Sunday week. 
Long may they live and happy be.
   Mr. Tatum, of Fall branch, sold out last Saturday, at public outcry, all
his property, as he intends to migrate to the Lone Star State.
   That writing society has "busted," from a to izzard.
   We noticed your Little Lot correspondent stated that D. S. Martin was
speaking of teaching the people of Raley's chapel the principles of vocal
music.  We hope he may succeed, for they need instruction in that
beautiful science, down there.
   Your Pinewood correspondent says the people are making an awful fuss
about a steamboat coming up Duck river, and that a "Shipp" came up
Piney, that far.  Pshaw! that's nothing; for Swan is smaller than Piney, and
a Shipp sailed up above this place, and as it came back it sailed up what is
known as Coperas branch, and then sailed back across to Swan.  Can you
beat that navigation, H?
   Miss Fannie Brown, of Cathey's creek, is on Swan, visiting her sister,
Mrs. O. A. Prince.
   There was a young gent, not a thousand miles from here, who has lately
taken a journey.  He said he saw lots of pretty girls, but came near starving
to death.  He is bashful, you know.
   We have a hill on a hill, near this place.
   Attorneys Moore and Bates passed through these parts last Friday.
   Brownsville Bee, what has become of our Susie May?
J.S.S.


   Cold and rainey, last Sunday.
   The plowman is sorry, on account of the rain, for the whistle of the
steamboat made them plow deeper and faster.
   The dinner-horn sounds melodiously to all us weary and happy
plowboys.
   The Lewis county people are alive to the advancement of the N. &
T.R.R.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MARCH  15, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   I will make the proposition to Y.M.C. to let's hold up on our foolishness
and recrimination, and go to getting up items for the PIONEER, as such
writing is not exactly the thing for publication, and may cause some hard
feelings, besides I am satisfied the editor does not like to publish such.
   Wm. Kindrick, of Izzard county, Ark., was visiting acquaintances on
Swan, last week.  He was raised in Old Hickman, and he promised me he
would become a subscriber to the PIONEER, so that he could hear from
his mother county weekly.
   John Q. Duncan, last Friday night, caught five large gopher rats in one
trap, and it was not a good night for catching rats, either.  He would hear
whenever one got into the trap, and would go and take it out.
   O. A. Prince raised his kitchen, or stove house, last Monday.
   Chas. Brown, of Cathey's creek, will preach for the people of Camp-
ground church, next Sunday at eleven o'clock.  Hope to see a large turn
out to hear him.
   Blooms in the garden, Mr. Martin.
   Mr. Frank Gilmore has commenced to build him a stove room.
   The sun shone beautifully last Sunday eve.
   It looks like the young people of this vicinity could have some good
vocal music, if they would, on beautiful evenings I mean Sunday
evenings, as they are cultivated to some extent in that science.
   The case of Sealy vs. Harden was tried before Esquire Wheat last
Saturday, for levying on and selling some chairs without legal notice. 
Harden proved that Sealy had agreed for him to sell the chairs, as that
would be the most appropriate time, there being a good many people in
town that day.  The case was decided in favor of Harden.
   J. S. Shires has his ground all broken up the first time.  Several others of
our neighbors have theirs broken.
   You can see that our farmers are alive to the fact that they will soon have
a home market for their produce.
   On last Monday week, as I was on my mule, in the act of starting home,
from town, I heard a noise on the corner of the Square, and rode back to
see what was up, and as I was re-starting, and riding along thinking how
simple some people were when they had to much whisky ahead, when I
happened to raise my eyes, and what do you suppose I saw?  Impossible to
describe it and do it justice!  It was a beautiful and pleasant face beaming
out from an upper window, the possessor of which was holding in her
hands a newspaper that she seemed to be intently reading.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MARCH  22, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   The 16th. of this month all the perishable property belonging to the estate
of Jesse Briggs, deceased, was disposed of at outcry.  Almost everything
went at an enormous price.  Bacon; clear sides, 12-3/4th. cents per
pound twice the worth in the Nashville market.  A wash kettle sold for
five dollars and some cents.  Corn sold for three dollars
per barrel.
   We are glad to learn that the Mary Clees is no longer stranded but is
steming the waters again.  We hope to soon hear her shrill whistle again
ere long at the Centreville landing,  her getting on the sandbar is a matter
of nothing.   That is a daily occurrence on the Mississippi and other large
rivers where boats run.
   Mr. Bill Simmons of Fall branch had a singular pig littered.  It had two
bodies united, eight feet, four eyes, four ears, two mouths and but one tail. 
I do not see why Mr. Simmons did not carry it to our druggist after it died
and have it preserved as a curiosity of Hickman county.
   I am happy to know that Y.M.C. took my proposition, and may we both
stick to it and be good boys in our writings.
   I can safely say that, at least, one of the candidates for matrimony would
be pleased to exchange his stock of artifical kisses for real ones,  as stated
by the Houston County Review.
   John Tole says he passed a house not long since and the word
"Penmanship" was stuck up over the front gate, in large, embellished
letters.  He said he could hardly read it.
   The wheat looks fine in this part of the county.
   Your correspondent went to town to help those ladies catch minnows,
but as the river was muddy, he didn't go.
   As the people of our immediate neighborhood remember, our vocalist, J.
S. Shires, proposed to give a series of music lessons free.  He will
organize a choral society at Coperas Branch school-house on the first
Sunday in April.  Remember the day and come, everybody.
   Last Saturday night Brother White preached at Camp-ground.  On
Sunday he preached an excellent sermon.  Sunday night a sermon was
preached by Brother Homes
   On last Sunday Mr. Arch Brown and Miss Sallie Johnson were united in
the bonds of matrimony.  Both of Lewis county.  Attendants: Mr. James
Duncan with Miss Leona Harder.
   The PIONEER is a welcome visitor in all the families that take the paper
and a great many families borrow it to read.  I think they ought to see the
necessity of patronizing their county paper and take it.
   D. W. Peery has built a poultry house.
   J. C. Duncan of Fall branch caught a turkey goboler in a steel trap last
week.
   The candidates have just come to a knowledge that your correspondent
is a voter of the county.
   Sweeping the yards and planting shrubbery are in vogue now.  That's so
nice to the cultivated eye.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI

   News is scarce.
   The people are making preparations for a big crop of peanuts and corn.
   We hope to soon see the N. & T. railroad completed.
   Bow Duncan and brothers have made about nineteen hundred panels
breach fence.  That showed industry, didn't it?
   Old Cap. Is still running his show slide.
   Our stirring business men, Messrs. Baker and Hines are running a shop
right.  They say they aim to go to Centreville next fall.  They say the cry
for Spencerian pens shall cease.
   Mr. P. M. Duncan and son were visiting relatives in old Maury last
week.
   J. F. Duncan is teaching school at Centre.  He has seventeen students
and about half of them are his brothers and the other half are Rev.
George's.  Jim is carrying them right along.
Y.M.C.


MARCH  22, 1878
"MISCELLANEOUS"
     The Revival
   The protracted meeting held at the Christian church at this place by
Elder J. M. F. Smithson, the blind preacher, has been quite a success.
   Elder Smithson is an able preacher knowing the New Testament
Scriptures, it seems, by heart.  He is also a splendid singer.  We are told
that he went blind from smallpox when about fourteen years old.  He was,
up to that time a wild, reckless boy.  Since the loss of his eye-sight he has
devoted his whole attention to the study and work of the ministry.
   The meeting commenced on Sunday at 11 o'clock a.m.
   On Monday at the morning service, seven persons joined the church and
at 3:30 o'clock that evening were baptized in Indian creek, by Elder John
M. Morton from Maury county.  The new members were:  Miss Amelia
Easley, Miss Mattie Tom Walker, Miss Maggie Shipp, Miss Jennie Nicks,
Dr. Norris, Mr. Billie Nicks and Mr. Billie Cooper.  
   Monday night Mr. John Nicks and wife joined and on Tuesday were
baptized by Elder Halbrook.  
   Tuesday night Miss Jennie Cooper, Mr. James Murphree and Mr. J. T.
Simpson joined and Wednesday were baptized by Elder Smithson.
   Yesterday morning Messrs. Pleas Walker and Wid Griner joined and in
the evening Mr. Walker was baptized by Elder Smithson.
   Last night Mrs. Wid Griner joined and this evening at 3:30 o'clock she
and her husband will be baptized.
   The meeting will close to-night, and tomorrow Elder Smithson will go to
Pinewood and commence a meeting there.
   We feel rejoiced at the good results at this place for truly, "The harvest
is great and the laborers are few."
   May great success continually attend the labors of the man of God!


MARCH  22, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   As I have never seen anything in your welcome paper from our
neighborhood, if the following is worth space, I will submit it for your
consideration:
   I see there is, and has been, a good deal said in regard to the State debt. 
I will only say this:  whenever I contract a debt, it matters not how long it
may remain unpaid, I never get off with half;  I wish I could.
   Mr. John S. is cutting up high-dad because he is afraid the Duck River
Valley Railroad will come down Blue-Buck creek and go up the Still-
house hollow, and he will evidently have to move his stable.  The
excitement is high, but we hope John will become reconciled.
   Allen V. Tatum, now residing on Fall branch, is preparing to try the
climes of  Texas.
   Messrs. Will W. and Marion R. have made them a bran new fiddle
apiece, and are now fiddling every night with a ten pound fiddle each.
   Now I will say something in regard to our Hickman paper.  While
visiting relatives on Leatherwood creek; in this county and the edge of
Maury and every one seems to be well pleased with the PIONEER, and
say they would like to take it, but not having the benefit of mails they have
to do without it.
   Our last Circuit Court proves beyond a doubt that steamboats, printing
presses, railroads and bridges do have a desirable effect, as I am told that
there were more lawyers in town, from different counties, than have been
for several years, and they will keep coming, if the people of Hickman
keep improving.
JOBSON


MARCH  29, 1878
"SUNRISE"
   News items are scarce.
   On last Sunday James Garrett and Miss ------Williams were united in the
bonds of matrimony.  Your correspondent said Jim was love-sick, but I
guess he is well now.
   Messrs. Allen Tatum, Nat Duncan and J. C. Duncan may be seen most
any day, going up and down the Fall branch, with their bow and spikes,
and a string of minnows.
   David Peery has commenced his bee hunting.  He says he found two
bee-trees and three hornet nests.
   The ladies of this vicinity are very anxious to know when the
matrimonial election is to come off, and say please to set some time.
   V.B.O. says he is glad I took the "proposition," and so am I, so here
goes to do all we can for the paper.
   I now correct the mistake about the whale being killed on the head of the
Pine branch;  it was a whaling big turkey gobbler.
   B. M. Grimmitt might have been seen a few days ago, pacing around on
a long eared animal.  It is said he was on his way to teach school at the
Columbia college.
   I will bet you, Mr. editor, that there are as pretty girls out here as you
ever saw.  You just ought to come out and see them.
   B.D. has commenced plowing.
Y.M.C.


MARCH  29, 1878
"SWAN"
   Is spring upon us?  It looks very much like it.  The air is perfumed with
the sweet odor of peach and plum blossoms.  Everything is putting on the
smile of beauty and happiness and the splendor of gayety.  The mocking-
bird is seen and heard roving from tree-top to tree-top, singing her sweet
and welcome lays.  The farmers have lighted log-heaps, which resemble to
the eye so many stars in the distant sky at night.
The choral society will be organized at 8 o'clock, on the first Sabbath in
April, as Bro. Thomas will preach at Camp-ground at eleven.  Come one
and all, and join.
   R. D. Clark gave a log-rolling last Thursday week.  Full attendance.
   Your correspondent and some one else caught 33 perch, one day last
week with hook and line.
   A great deal of fire in the woods, and the elements are very smoky, at
present.
   All-Fool's day will be here next Monday.  Have your compositions all
ready to send to him, or her, as the case may be.
   That bald eagle is on the creek again.  Cannot some of marksmen kill
him?  He is very large.
   Neil Anderson, of Lewis county, has become a citizen of Swan, in
Hickman.
   Marriages seem to be epidemic up this way;  three in vogue;  some
objections to one of them.
   Some of our young ladies have a song they sing, which seems to be a
favorite with them.  Something about "Kentucky shore, and he won't
come back any more."  Now girls, don't be uneasy, he will come back,
excepting he freeze.
   Our circuit rider resigned, is the reason we people have had no
preaching.  Brother Tobe Pennington, of Laurel Hill, has been put on this
circuit for the balance of this conference year.
   Miss B. J. Weatherly will take up school the first Monday in April, at the
Coperas branch school-house.  May success attend her efforts.
   Bro. Pennington contemplates organizing a Sabbath school for the
people of Coperas branch school-house.  I will say we need one, and that
Bro. Pennington is used to good Sunday schools, and knows how to go
about the affair to be successful.  Come, parents, bring your children out,
and attend regular, then we can have a good sabbath school.
   Bro. A.F.B. Foster, of Maury county, preached for the people of Coperas
branch, last Saturday and Sunday night.  Hope he will call again.
   Bro. Pennington will preach for us every three weeks.  His next
appointment is the 2nd. Sabbath in April, at the Coperas branch church.
   Rev. Chas. Brown, of Cathey's creek delivers a sermon at the Camp-
ground church to night.  Come out, one and all, and hear him.
   Parties who go to church should pay attention to the preacher, and not
talk so loud as to annoy the congregation.                       
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


APRIL  5, 1878
"COPERAS-BRANCH"
   As I have never seen anything in your welcome paper from our Branch,
if the following is worth space, I will submit it for your consideration.
   The farmers hereabouts are busily engaged in clearing new ground. 
They are taking a great interest in the improvement of their lands in this
neighborhood.
   Parson Williams will preach at the school house, near the mouth of
Blue-Buck, on the third Sunday in the present month.  We would like to
see all the neighboring christians attend that day.  The brothers and sisters
of the Christian church, on Swan creek and the branches around, are
requested to meet on that day, to organize a body to meet on the first day
of the week to commemorate the death and suffering of our Lord and
Savior.
H.W.G.


APRIL  5, 1878
"SWAN"
   As perhaps there are some readers of your paper who have no idea as to
the location of Swan creek, I will now attempt to inform them:  Swan rises
in Maury county, thence runs North-west through Lewis county, on into
Hickman and empties into Duck river above Centreville.  Swan is
supported by a number of small streams which it is useless to mention.
   The churches on Swan, commencing at Mr. Kittrell's, in Lewis county,
are:  1st,   Swan Chapel;  2nd, Ebeneazer, at Palestine;  3rd, Centre;  4th,
Coperas;  5th, Camp-ground;  6th, Rolley's Chapel.
   The post-offices are Palestine, Sunrise and Swan-Bluff.
    Along the course of the stream, on each side, lay fine tillable and
productive lands;  adapted to the growth of wheat, corn and peanuts; 
which grow to perfection, when properly cultivated.
   Swan is as beautiful a stream as flows through our noble State, and
presents many attractions to the beholder.  On every side may be seen the
hills which rise out in their grandeur, presenting to the eye many beautiful
scenes.  Were I but a Scott, a Burns or a Shakspeare, I might do this
scenery justice.  Thus, I have given you some ideas as to our lovely stream
of old Hickman, called Swan creek.
   Mr. Smith, of Swan-Bluff, has gotten over his scare, that Jobson spoke
of.  He has moved his stable, himself, as he thought the railroad would not
pay him anything for the trouble of moving it.
   Mr. Add Plummer and Miss Mary Jones were united in the bliss of
wedlock, last Sunday week.  May they enjoy all they anticipated in
married life.
   The tooth dentist was around last week.  He stated to me that had pulled
40 teeth in one day.  Somebody is toothless, I guess.  The dentist was one
Dr. Grant, of Maury county.
   Mr. Wm. McClenahan's child was buried at Camp-ground church last
week.
Messrs. Weatherly and Matthews, each, gave a log-rolling last week.  I
was not present at either one, but wish I could have been.
   On last Wednesday night it hailed very heavily, and hail could have been
plentifully found at 10 o'clock on the next day.  A great deal of it was
large as partridge eggs.
   Providence has favored us, and it rained instead of frosting, as everyone
thought.  Steamboats, papers and bridges saved us, they say.  Well the fact
is, I am still in dread of frost, for I want a peach-cobbler at my wedding
dinner, next summer, if she'll say "yes, I'll vote for you."
   Rev. Chas. Brown preached at the Camp-ground, last Friday night.
   It is Holmes, instead of Thomas, that will preach at Camp-ground next
Sunday.
   Oh, pshaw! that fishing club that went fishing last week, with pin hooks, 
The minnows just laughed and laughed at them.
   Shrubbery is still being planted out.  It is very nice to behold, and shows
a taste for beauty.
   Prof. B. M. Grimmitt is in our vicinity.  We welcome him, and hope he
will be with us frequently.
   When you young gents go to see your adored, and if after supper she
comes out with her bonnet on, all pulled over her face, do not let it trouble
your heart, for she has had holes punched in her ears, or has been using the
latest beautifier, which annihilates all others, simply butter-milk.
  As some of the ladies wish for a time to be set for the matrimonial
election, I will say this much, ladies, that it is not a public affair, and if
you are inclined to vote for either of the candidates, just inform him of the
fact and he may receive your vote.  It only takes one vote to carry in this
election.  So cast yours, and make his life happy or miserable as the case
may prove.
   Plenty of lightning-bugs were seen flashing in the elements, last
Saturday night, and scared some of the boys very badly.  Fish did not bite
worth a cent that night, the boys say.
   There was a Baptist Deacon meeting on Blue-Buck, last Sunday, at
which there was a large attendance.
   Some of the lower creek boys come up our way.  I fear they are "stuck,"
if I must use slang.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


APRIL  5, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   As I haven't had anything to say in the PIONEER  I have concluded to
drop in a few items, which you can give room in one corner, if you think it
worthy.
   As I don't feel competent I shall not say anything about the State debt
this time, and perhaps never will.
   The people are in deep sympathy with W. W. McClenahan and family,
on account of the terrible accident by which their only son was killed, on
the 26th. ult.
   We understand that Miss E. J. W. will commence her first school the 1st.
Monday in April, at C. Rock.  Hope she will get along all right, and
advance the little ones at a reasonable rate.
   We have had some births on our creek.  In seven weeks there have been
five births, and I don't hear any mother complain of hers being a boy.
   We have the cleverest candidate in the world, up in our section.  He has
opened his heart, smoke-house and corn crib to his poorer neighbors, until
he has actually been forced to buy provisions from other men.  This is not
done because he is a candidate, for he acts in the same manner when not
before the people.
C.

APRIL 19, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   Planting corn is going on in these parts.  The plan of bedding land for
corn has played out.
   We have heard the Mr. Lane, who went to Texas some time ago, was
seriously injured by a team running away with him and a plow.  The point
of the plow struck him on the head, and hurt him so badly that he died
shortly afterwards.  We also learned that Mr. Field Aydelotte, who was
raised in this county but moved to Arkansas, was dead.
   Miss Dinke (probably Stuart) has commenced school at Blue Buck
church.
   One of our young men had bad luck at Centreville.  On one trip he lost
his pocket-book, and the next his hat, or rather exchanged a new one for
an old one.
   Erastus Anderson and wife were visiting relatives on our creek this
week.
   We have heard that there was a bell found up the creek, that weighs
about one hundred pounds, and can be bo't for fifty cents;  said fifty cents
going to help pay the State debt.
   We learn that the Texas fever is on our creek.  Wm. Mayfield and D. W.
Peery are bound to go next fall.
CASIBIANCA


APRIL 19, 1878
"SWAN"
   I see another sensible fact in our paper, in regard to education.  I hope to
hear often of this subject, as there is much need of encouragement in that
direction.
   The singing went off nicely, and we hope soon to have an extra class.
   Mr. Wm. Pell, of Beaver Dan, was on Swan last Sunday, together with
many others too tedious to mention, from other parts.
   Rev. Mr. Holmes will preach at the Camp-ground church on Thursday
night before the fourth Sunday.
   Mr. J. M., of our vicinity, goes to see the widow's daughter and sits on
the wood-pile.
   A young lady on Coperas branch caught seventeen yellowhammers one
day last week, in a steel trap.  She baited with shelled peas.
   Some of our farmers are planting corn.
   The schools on our creek are progressing finely.  Jas. F. Duncan, at
Center, is learning the young mind to scan the ideas of art.  Miss Bettie
Weatherly, at Coperas branch, is also conducting a successful school. 
May education yet spread itself in beautiful refinement in old Hickman; 
may the people come to know that to possess education is to possess
refinement;  without education we are nothing in the eyes of the world;  so
patronize your schools.
   Bud, Chas. and Nick were seen one day last week, fishing in a mud-
hold, about two hundred yards from the creek.  Boys, don't catch the
tadpoles.
   On my writing table, by which I am now sitting, is a nice vase of wild
flowers, placed there by a fair damsel.  May she live to place flowers on
the table for me for many years.
   Are there any more candidates?  Yes plenty.  I heard our editor say he
was one.  I will announce him also as a candidate for matrimony.  Girls, if
you wish to be editress, now is your time.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


APRIL  26, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   Farmers should look out.  We may expect a heavy attack of weeds. 
Let's get through planting, so we can be ready for the fray.
   Big Bud H. has leased Mr. M. G. Peery's grass-lot for the present crop.  
   Mr. W. S. was at singing last Sunday with a pair of new pants on. 
Wonder if he got them from the young lady or the widower.
   I think Dr. Ward and Mr. O. A. Nixon will have large audiences
tomorrow and Sunday.
   I hear of number one mule colts being sold at twenty and twenty five
dollars, with few or no bids.  I would ask this question:  can farmers afford
to raise mules at that price and pay five dollars for the season?  I am sure
that a mare is worth twenty dollars less after suckling a colt four months.
   D. W. Peery says that the geese have run with his hogs so much that his
hogs are getting poor.
   W. G. Rochell, it is said, has the finest herd of cattle in the county.
Great deal of rejoicing over the prospects of the fruit crop in this section.
   Mr. Arch Young is manufacturing double-tongue plows.
   Old Mr. Layne was buried at Camp-ground on the 14th.  Singular to say,
he requested that a dress belonging to his first wife should be put in his
coffin.
Mr. Editor, if you see a load of men coming in a two-horse wagon at an
unreasonable drive, don't get excited, it is just our boys going after Chilled
plows.  If you see young men and boys going out of town running their
horses and yelling like Indians, that is an evidence that some candidate too
poor to have his name announced in the PIONEER has been in town that
day.
CASIBIANCA


APRIL  26, 1878
"SWAN"
           Oh! The roses, the beautiful roses,  Which send fourth such sweet
perfume,
            To the gratification of all beholders,  That inhale the sweet
perfume,
   On my table this time are two nice and sweet bouquets.
    J.Q.D. has put a new gate to his front yard.
   Teen A. has build him a bran-new horse lot.
   I would like to get into that drive where they pay clothes for courting by
proxy.
   A new way of making a goose own goslings is to tie her up and put the
goslings with her and keep her tied two days.  I know, for I've seen it
tried.
   If nothing molests the peach crop, the fruit will have to be shaken off the
trees, or they will destroy the orchards, being too heavily laiden.
   The ground will be too wet to plow during the present week, owing to
the recent rains.
   Wheat looks fine in the section.
   Miss Bettie W. has dismissed school till next Monday for fear the
measles would get in the school.
   The singing on last Sunday passed off so nicely.  Hope, though, to have
a nicer time next Sunday.
   A young gent on our creek we know of who stays till night drives him
off when goes to see his sweetheart.
   The health generally is good of this section.  Have been some measles
and chicken colera.
   Mr. Editor, I see Eagle Eye invites you to come to Shipp's Bend and
gather your sweetheart a bouquet of wild flowers.  Now, if you'll just
come up here you shall have the nicest bouquet on the creek for her-
besides, will go a fishing in the spring-branch with you.
   Angling seems to be the order of the day.  There were two parties from
old Maury on the creek last week.  Ed Hughes, of Columbia, could have
been seen plying round in the creek like a water hen, fishing around logs
and stumps.  Also, Joe Woodsides, the great temperance man, was seen
wading around in the branch, with bucket in one hand and cane in the
other.  From Hampshire was John Brook, who was seen to sling a small
perch over head and into a tree, which was behind him.  Also Elie Pogue
and Ed Thompson was along.  They fished all during the last rain.
   William Mayfield not long since, with another person, took a turkey
chase.  They followed a track about ten miles, when, on close examination
of the track, it was discovered they were going from the turkey.
   Oh, yes! That pic-nic.  Yes, I'll come, if nothing breaks, and perhaps
bring some more, if they want to come.
   Casibianca, that fifty cents you spoke of that would pay for that belle,
does not go to the State, but to pay the county clerk to record the sale of
said belle.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MAY  3, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   Again it is that I attempt to write a few lines for the public to inspect,
acknowledging at the same time my incompetency to interest the public
mind to any great extent, but after all, I will go on.  First, I will say the
health of our neighborhood if very good, except a few cases of measles.
   We have had some of Maury's sons with us, on a fishing excursion, to
wit:  Messrs. Dick Bennett, James Tilford and two others, all from
Columbia.
   I noticed an article concerning the young man who was to get the pants,
by talking to the widower, who promised to give him a better pair to hush. 
The young man agreed to do so, but I learn that he has forfeited them, by
talking since.   So he will only get his trouble for his pants.
   I have paid my dollar for the bridge, and feel none the poorer;  and when
I come to town will try to hand the PIONEER a dolla, and think  I will not
be any the worse off in the long run.  So, wishing you a long life, a
christian life and great success in your undertaking, I am yours, etc.
Y.


MAY  3, 1878
"SWAN"
   Rained!  And still has the appearance of rain.
   Old "Swan" swelled up last Tuesday night and covered the bottoms and
Corn that is up is looking fine, and we have a good stand.
   Your correspondent on last Saturday evening caught sixteen nice black
perch.
   There is a spring on the creek which boils our April-fools.  One young
man stayed  at the spring a good while.
   There are plenty of weeds and grass just coming up, which the farmer
will have to annihilate, or it will exterminate him.
   Miss Bettie took up school last Monday, again, at Coperas branch.
   As Prof. J. S. Shires sent an appointment to Shipp's Bend for next
Sunday, to sing for the people.  He will sing at 3 o'clock, in the Bend, as
there will be preaching at eleven, at Centreville.  We will see about it at
the pic-nic, on next Saturday.
   There was a young gent, not long since, who rode six miles to see a
couple whom Rumor had circulated would be married.  He got so wet, and
they are not married yet.
   There was a large audience  congregated at Camp-ground last Sunday, to
hear the temperance lecture from Dr. J. C. Ward, but they were
disappointed, as he did not come.
MR. Q.


MAY  10, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   We are plowing and planting corn, in these parts.  Hope we will have a
good season for corn.
   I'm afraid our wheat is badly damaged by the rust.
   Worms are destroying our young corn.  We call them bud-worms.  Hope
we will have some warm weather soon, which will drive the pest from our
crops.
   Measles have broken out in a new place, up on this creek.
   Mr. Editor, a young lady is talking of having a pic-nic and a skull-
cracking.  You need not be surprised if you get a ticket.  It will be on
Haw's branch.
   I learn that Prof.  Shires has given his vocal lectures over to Mr. John
Nunnellee.  We regret the loss of Mr. Shires, as he is a splendid vocalist.
   Brother White preached for us at Grimes' Chapel, last Sunday night. 
We will be glad if he will come again.
  Thank you, Mr. V.B.O. for your instruction!  You have told me where
the 50 cents went;  now please tell me what will become of our
matrimonial candidates?
   Mr. Monroe Walker was seen on our creek last week, trying to exchange
goods for eggs.  He said he had got as many as ten dozen at one house, all
of which were nearly ready to hatch.  One egg-merchant badly bent, if not
broke.
   Now, Jimmie, don't forget our pic-nic and to come and fish with me.
CASABIANCA


MAY  10, 1878
"SWAN "
   After walking through the garden of flowers, and viewing their beauties
which dazzle with radiant hues, and finding a bouquet on some place near
by which yields a rich perfume, I will endeavor to give the PIONEER a
few items, as perhaps my mind is in a suitable mood to communicate.
   The first is, our singing master, Prof. Shires, wishes to make some
apologies to the kind people of Shipp's Bend for their disappointment, on
his part.  He is very sorry he was not able to be at his appointment, but
will sing for them at some not far distant time, which will be duly made
known.
   The wheat of this section was to some extent red with rust till that
shower of rain we had, last Friday, when it was washed clean, and does
not have the appearance of any more rust, so far.
   The ground was getting very dry, before the last rain, too hard to plow.
   There will be preaching at Coperas branch church, on Sunday, at 11
o'clock by Bro. Pennington.
   There will be a foot-washing at Centor church, next Sunday, by the
Baptists.l
   Qwuix and Quibble's question answered: Raleigh is correct;  it was
named for a Methodist preacher, Raleigh, who used to hold forth there.
   Angling has been the order for the past few days, by our boys.
If I were in that young man's place I would have those pants if I had to sue
for them;  for it's hard work to court in good hard earnest, or at least some
of the boys think so, from the way their hearts thump and choke them.
   I noticed an article on "harrowing," in No. 14 of your paper, and tried
the experiment on some young corn and it worked very nicely.  I took a
large V harrow, hitched two horses to it, straddled a row, with it, each
time, put the ground in as nice fix as could be, and did not injure my corn. 
Some of the neighbor boys were present when I began, and one said,
"you'll tear that all up."  I drove on, but hurt none of the corn, and now the
boys are in a great notion for harrowing.
  There are some of those worms your correspondents speak of on our
creek, but they have done no damage as yet.
   I suppose you had a nice time at the pic-nic.  I would have been there
had not circumstances been such as they were.
   The was singing at Camp-ground, 1st. Sunday, by D. W. Peery.
   Preparing bouquets is the order of the day by our fair damsels and they
(the bouquets) entice the boys, beyond a doubt.
   A young lady of this vicinity, not long, replied to an advertisement, with
"25 cents and stamp enclosed," and received the reply:  "To make an
impression, 'sit down in a pan of dough.'"
   Some measles yet, and more expected this week.  Miss Bettie Weatherly
has just got up from a spell of them.
   There will be singing, next Sunday, at Coperas, at 9 o'clock.
   B. M. Hutchison brought a singular shaped gourd to church last Sunday. 
It resembled a pipe and stem.
   Young corn looks fine.     
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI



MAY  17, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   The people are all getting along very well at farming.  There are a few
who are not done planting, on account of the low lands.  Wheat has the
rust very badly;  prospect quite unfavorable for a good crop.  Corn that is
up looks fine.
   Mr. Jo. B. has been close at work for some time past.  I guess he is
fixing up to see the voters of the county.  I see in your last number that
V.B.O. is still inclined to mourn over that dollar;  it is on his mind so deep
that he can't help from mentioning it in some way, but I hope it will not
disturb his hours of slumber, and here I will say, as my answer did not get
there in due time to meet the occasion, I am not very badly s-c-a-r-e-d,  as
Justice answered it in full.
   I have been reliably informed that the gentleman who offered the pants
to the young man, has since proposed to give three pigs to get some
talking done for himself.  It is to be hoped he has found one to suit him at
last.
   We have had a few candidates to see us this week, all going to be
elected.
JOBSON


MAY  17, 1878
"SWAN"
   I am again seated to give the PIONEER my small mite.  The first we
shall notice is the cool nights we have been having, which gives the
insects a better chance to work on our young corn, that has not as yet
grown out of their reach.  Corn is looking somewhat yellow on account of
cool nights.  It does not grow off as it would if warmer.
   We had a sermon by "Uncle Tobe," last Sabbath; at Coperas.  Also, in
the evening, there was speaking on Temperance, at Campground, which
we hope had its desired effect on the minds of our Swan people.  Also a
foot-washing at Centor, by our Baptist brethren.
   All can readily see that old Swan is getting alive again, for Bro. White
begins a protracted meeting at Rawley's Chapel, next Sabbath night-only
of nights, as the people have to work of days.
   The whippoor-will can be heard chirping her dulcet.  Lays to her
nocturnal companion, while the King of day is setting in the West.
   Those worms called catterpillars are supposed to come from the eggs of
the large gray fly, which are deposited on the tender leaves of the young
chestnut trees.  The eggs are innumerable and each one brings forth a
worm, which goes over the earth, destroying as it goes.  
   There is a small flea bug in this vicinity that seems to be preying on the
young corn and other tender vegetation, but we suppose the rays of the sun
will exterminate them, as they seek shade.
   I think that when the wheat is garnered, I shall be able to report a better
crop than is anticipated by our farmers.
   Old Swan is clear as crystal.  The giggers can now fish with success. 
Quitman Weatherly, of Cathey's creek, killed three very nice trout, last
week, with a gun.
   Our singing friend, Prof. J. S. Shires will sing at Newhope, on Beaver
Dam, on the fourth Sunday in this month, at 9 o'clock, a.m.  Everyone
invited to attend and bring their song books, and have a nice time, before
preaching.
   Prof. Shires has only given over his lectures to Mr. Nunnellee, for a
short time, till he can go to Shipp's Bend, to see those pretty girls over
there.
   Casibianca says I told him where the "fifty cents" went to, and he wants
to know where the candidates for matrimony will go to, or what will
become of them?  They will marry next fall, if not sooner, if they do not
meet a returning board that will count them out, which is against the
constitution of courtship.  Do you suppose they will let it be known
publicly, how they are electioneering?  To be sure not!  If they did they
would be brought before the board and counted out, as sure as 3 beats 7.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MAY  24, 1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   Wheat looks better now.  I don't believe the rust is hurting it very badly,
at present.
   I have been informed that a certain road on the creek was filled  up with
driftwood, by the last freshet.  It was removed by the road hands, the
following notice was afterwards seen on a tree near by:  "All persons who
have been fillen and plowing up this road had better stop it if they wanter
save time,  trouble and expence,"
   V.B.O., you said that the candidates for matrimony would marry next
fall, if they didn't meet a returning board that would count them out, and
that they were electioneering secretly.  That is all right, only I thought it
was to be a public thing as you had your names publicly announced.  But I
would not be so much afraid of a returning board as I would of a clap-
board, if I were in you places.  I have heard that you had all joined the
Good Templars;  that is all right, too.
   Good Templars is all the go on our creek.  Some objections, but not
worth noticing, as it is mostly by persons of very little influence.
   We hear some of our neighbors complaning of Small Fry's big words; 
they have to be continually explaining them to the children.  The children
all love to read the PIONEER.
   Mr. Jobson, tell that widower to bring his pigs along, and I'll talk for
him to his satisfaction.
   I hear that Mr. J.D.A. has petitioned for the 50 cents bill.
   A certain person passed the Meece farm, not long since, and a young
man sitting on his plow with a PIONEER in his hand.  Suppose he was
looking over the names of the Templars who were organized last Saturday. 
No wonder he came down after seeing so many pretty girls names on the
list.
   Mr. Ed:  I can't tell you anything about when the pic-nic and skull-
cracking will be, but I guess you will be informed in due time.
   "I'd like for all the girls to join the Good Templars,"   said- John Toll, 
"I might want one for a wife."  "Yes, said one of the fair ones, "but want
will be your master."
   Brother Charles Brown will preach for us at Camp-ground the fourth
Sabbath in this month.  Brother S. H. Holmes will also preach on the first
Sabbath in next month at the same place.
   D. W. Peery has been cow-hunting recently, and says catterpillars are
not what you would call "scarce."  He also says that he has nothing to do
but talk about Good Templars;  got eight acres of corn plowed over the
second time, the rest not large enough to plow.
CASIBIANCA


MAY  24, 1878
"THE GOOD TEMPLARS ON SWAN"
   Last Saturday, after due preparation had been made and three
commodious vehicles procured, a number of the members together with
the Worthy Deputy of the Centreville lodge started for Camp-ground
church on Swan, to be present at the formal re-organization of Rawley's
Lodge, No. 19, I.O.G.T., which had suspended operations for quite a
number of months.
   The Centreville delegation consisted of Mr. W. M. Johnson, Mrs. T. S.
Easley, Misses Amelia Easley, Mamie Johnson, Tabbie Wiss, Tommie
Easley, Emma Johnson and Laura Briggs, Messrs. S. M. Ward, J. T.
Primm, Albert Easley and James F. Martin.
   Notwithstanding the rather oppressive heat of the sun, the party enjoyed
the drive out there splendidly-beholding on every hand such lovely
scenery (and the young ladies watching and avoiding the caterpillars
which seemed to be plentiful).  A little after twelve o'clock the party
arrived at the Prince spring about a half mile from Camp-ground, where
they took dinner and drank some of the best water in the county.  In a
short while they were on their way again and arrived safely at their
destination.
   Some time was spent waiting for the crowd to gather in, after which the
Good Templars assembled in the church, and the lodge was regularly re-
organized and the officers installed.
   The following is a list of the officers:  John Duncan; W.C.T.;  Miss
Levica Peery, W.R.H.S.;  Miss S. C. Aydelott, W.L.H.S.;  Miss Maggie
Aydelott, W.V.T.;  Dr. W. T. Kilpatrick, W. Sec.;  Miss Maggie Prince, 
W.A. Sec.;  G. W. Harden, W.F.Sec.;  D. W. Peery, W. Treas.;  A. Young,
W. Chap.;  A. J. Aydlott, W.M.;  Miss Sallie Flowers, W.D.M.;  H. C.
Prince, W.L.G.;  S. N. Gillmore, W.O.G.;  M. G. Peery, P.W.C.T.;  Dr.
W.T. Kilpatrick, Lodge Deputy.
   The new lodge holds its first regular meeting tonight, after which it will
meet on Saturday night of each week.
  After the adjournment of the lodge, all parties shook hands and set out
for home, feeling greatly encouraged at the prospects of the newly
organized lodge.
   The Centreville party just seemed to be perfectly delighted with their
trip.
   We were highly delighted to see such a fine outlook and we do sincerely
hope that they will not become weary in well doing, but that their
influence may be felt throughout that entire section.  We hope to be able to
visit this lodge again soon.


MAY   24, 1878
"SWAN"
   On last Saturday night we had a nice shower of rain.  On the approach of
the cloud the thunder rolled across the heavens, and lightning flashed
across ethereal space, thence the gentle rain-drops began to descend to old
mother earth.
   Sunday was cloudy and cool, pleasant, while the birds sang their
Creator's praise, and the hum of the bee was heard in the rose-bush.
                   Lonely and sad is some one to-day,
                   As two of Swan's belles are gone far away,            
   Is there not a saw-mill standing idle, somewhere doing no good, or
going to be put up where it will not half pay?  If there is, I would just cite
them to Swan creek for a location, as the people need a mill very badly,
and we hope some person who has a mill will see it to his advantage to
locate on central Swan and saw the timer and grind the grain for the
people.  A gentleman was going to put one up on Swan, but was persuaded
to put it down where it will not pay half so well.
   I see a paragraph in your last issue, by Jobson, that I was mourning over
"that dollar."  Mr. J., if you please, I have not paid my dollar yet, and if I
had I would not mourn over spilled milk.
   The peach trees are breaking down on account of the heavy crop of fruit,
and a good deal of it will have to be shaken off, or the orchards will be
spoiled.
    Your correspondent planted peanuts last Saturday.  He had to replant 18
acres of corn, on account of the bud worm's damage during the cold spell
just passed.
   There was a gigging party on the creek, last Saturday.
   The I.O.G.T. officers, of Camp-ground, were installed on last Saturday,
with a goodly number of members initiated.  Long may they live, and
much good may they do on our creek.
   The boys were much pleased with their mitiatory.
   There is a young men's debating club at Center church, on our creek. 
They meet every Saturday night.
   Our county road was put in fine fix last Friday, by the hands and
overseers.
   Gathering "sang" seems to be the order of the day, now, by some of our
beautiful damsels.
   Corn looks bad, on account of the cool weather of a few week ago.  The
weather has been very warm for the past few days, and it is hoped that it
will continue.
   Wheat is about the same; no rust on the stalk, and it is too late for it to
injure the stalk before maturity, that is, such as I have examined.
   John T., of this creek, is very fond of cats, from the way he chased a
Kitten, not long since.
    Mr. Justice, I will deliver you over to Vux Porus, on the "poll-tax"
question, and would guess he will give you facts on the case, as he has
been advised by our best lawyers, both at home and abroad, on the affair,
with circumstances full evident in themselves to decide the debate.  I think
Jobson will be somewhat excited when he hears from our friend.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


MAY   24, 1878
"ONE  OF  HICKMAN'S  CURIOSITIES"
   On Tuesday, the 21st. inst., I visited the residence of Rev. Andrew Peery. 
He lives about 2 miles from the mouth of Blue-Buck, on what is called
Ugly creek.  An attempt to describe his castle and other buildings simply
beggars language.  However I will give you a mere outline of it:  I started
at 2 o'clock led by my fair and faithful guide, Miss N. E. Nunnellee, to
pay Mr. Peery a visit.  I found him to be kind and polite, and he showed us
the principal objects of curiosity.  The first was his castle, which is made
of rock, except the roof, joists and sleepers and the great wonder is how he
ever managed to get some of the stones into the wall, for it appears to me
that some of them must have weighed at least eight hundred pounds, and
he laid every one of them in the wall himself.  Now how one man, without
the aid of horse or ox, could move these hugh stones over one hundred
yards and place them in that wall, is one of the greatest mysteries I ever
heard of.  The house is 18 feet in the clear;  the wall is at least three feet
thick, and the floor is laid with squares of rock, as nicely jointed together
as you ever saw, and he says he never used the hammer on it.
F.


MAY   31, 1878
"SWAN"
   I am again in the act of giving the few items I possess to the PIONEER. 
I was at the Sacramental meeting, on Beaver Dam, at Newhope, last
Sunday.  There was a large and appreciative audience in attendance.  All
parts were represented by fair young ladies and gallant gentlemen.  I
would not care if I could go to Newhope every Sabbath and have new
hopes kindled in my heart each time, as I did last Sabbath.  There were
new hopes aroused in the bosoms of several, if I am not mistaken.
   Rev. Charles Brown preached at the Camp-ground church last Sabbath,
and will preach again the 2nd. Sabbath in June, at 3 o'clock, p.m.
   The Mormons preached on Indian creek, last Sunday.
   I learn that the army worm is playing havock on Blue-Buck.
   Harvesting some on our creek, and plowing continuously.
   I learn that Howell Brigg, of this creek met with a serious accident not
long since.  Got a butcher-knife stuck into his side accidentally, by putting
it in his pocket and getting on a mule.  The knife struck a rib and glanced
upward, ranging toward the shoulder.
   Not long since, there were nine cases of measles in Mr. Sisco's family at
one time.
   Prof. Shires will go again to Shipp's Bend, to see those pretty girls, for
he likes them very much.
   I came very near getting the "word with the bark on it," about that cat
chase:  I hope she will reflect and remember that a reporter must get all the
news he can.
   Cherries are getting ripe; and so are raspberries.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


JUNE  7,  1878
"SWAN"
   Health is only tolerable good.  Some chills;  and some measles below
Palestine, on the creek.  Mr. D. McClanahan is afflicted very much with
rheumatism.  Hope he will get well soon.
    Miss Bettie Weatherly has dismissed her school, on account of a
scarcity of pupils.  I say support your schools;  educate your children; 
give them an education, if no more.
   Wheat is being cut this week, by all the farmers.  Some fields are injured
by the rust striking the stalk and causing it to fall.
   Bro. Holmes preached at Camp-ground last Sunday, and also at night.
   Copperas branch road was worked last Saturday.
   There will be preaching at Coperas branch church, next Sunday, by
uncle Tobe Pennington.  Come and hear him.
   Pof. Shires will not have any more appointments out for singing, till
crops are over, as he has a heavy crop on hand.
   The people are plowing ahead.  Some have their corn plowed over the
second time, and others the third time.      
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


JUNE  14,  1878
"SUNRISE"
   As I have not seen anything from this place for some time, in your
paper, I will give you a few sketches and if they meet with approbation,
will send you more.
   The health of the community is good as usual.
   Crops look fine, since the rain.  We have had considerable rain, recently.
   The wheat is very light because of rust;  not more than one third of a
crop.  It is shrivelled up very much, and has no weight about it.
   There was to have been preaching at Camp-ground last Sunday, by the
Rev. Charles Brown, but he failed to come.  We had a flash all around,
that day;  neither singing nor preaching.
   The Good Templars are doing a good work on our creek.
T. et T.


JUNE  14,  1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   After a silence of several weeks I again attempt to get you up a few news
items, while the birds sing their praises and farmers' hearts are made glad
by copious showers of rain, which will no doubt cause a great deal of
produce to be raised;  but we may expect General green to re-inforce and
come again, but we should never give up.
   A person might not make it pay trot-lining in Swan, but one night last
week D. W. Peery, John Prince and brothers caughter six cat, four perch,
one eel and one turtle.  And on Saturday night John Beakley and others set
out a trot-line, and caught two cat, a little less than two feet long.
   A very large rattle-snake was killed, the other day, in a harvest field on
Ugly creek, that had no rattles.
   One of our farmers, Mr. D. W. Peery, happened to a serious accident the
other day, while in the harvest field.  He leaned back against a fence, on
which lay a large bamboo briar that he had not noticed, one of the thorns
of which stuck into him near where the hips and spine join.  He has not
been able to work much since, but we hope he will soon recover, as it is a
very busy time with farmers.
   A certain young man came very near getting his walking papers, a few
days since, by spending working hours in sport.
   A little boy, son of J. L. Weatherly, was carrying a load of oats on his
back when he was attacked by a dog, belonging to Frank Mathis, and was
severly bitten on the leg.
   George Briggs is running the old mill;  has put up a new door-shutter, on
it has written, in big letters, "blow," and just over it hangs a large horn
when  he leaves.
   Ese Anderson has a portable spring-house.  Suppose it is for the
convenience of his wife during freshets.  
   There are girls living in half a mile of young Jim Anderson's who have
never seen him.  He is past 22.
   Mrs. Bettie George did not pay her visit to Swan, on account of sickness.
CASABIANCA


JUNE  14,  1878
"DEATHS"
   Died at the residence, near Maryville, Cooke county, Texas, May 15,
1878, an infant son of Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Griner.


JUNE  14,  1878
"SWAN"
   On the night of the 3rd. inst., a heavy cloud gathered in the North-east,
which threatened destruction from the keen and continuous flashes of
lightning and heavy thunder.  It came back South-west, and rained gentle
showers, off and on, all night, much to the delight of all our farmers, as we
were greatly in need of rain.  It has been to wet to plow, all the past week,
in the vicinity of Palestine.
   Messrs. Smith & Sharp anticipate threshing their first wheat for the
season, next Monday.
   Old Swan has been very muddy during the past week's rains.
   Your correspondent, with Mr. Graham, not long since, caught twenty-
two nice fish, at Walker's Ferry.
   Mr. Broyles, candidates for Chancelor, was circulating on our creek, not
long since.
   T. H. Rodgers, of Cane creek, was around gathering up wool, a few days
ago.
   Mr. Alf Bartley's child is very sick, and has been for several days;  not
much hopes for its recovery I learn, since writing the above, that it is
better.
   A small audiences gathered at Coperas, Sunday, to sing, and had no
books;  and Brother Pennington failed to come and preach for us.
   There was to have been speaking at Camp-ground, last Sabbath evening,
by Dr. Ward, but owing to the rain, he failed to put in an appearance.
   Crops look nice since the rain.  The farmers can  plow with some hopes,
now, since the pests have all departed.
   There will be singing at Coperas branch church, next Sunday, at 9 a.m.
and 3 p.m.  All are invited to come and bring their song books.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


JUNE  21,  1878
"SWAN"
   As this is my first attempt, I hope the public will overlook all
imperfections, and I will endeavor to give a few items through your
columns.
   Mr. Hal Willis says he counted one thousand black-berries on one bush,
not long since.  Who can beat that for wild fruit?
   On last Sunday morning the sun shone out clear and beautiful, for the
first time in a week or two.  Everybody and everything was delighted with
his appearance.  We thought it had been cloud so long that the sun would
be mouldy, and not shine brightly, anymore.
   Prof. B. M. Grimmitt, I learn, is having fine success, teaching school, in
West Tenn.  We recommend him to the people down there, as an efficient
teacher.
   Mr. Luther Whitesides has several cases of measles in his family.
   Miss Sallie Aydelotte is visiting relatives near Palestine, this week.
   There are two cases of chills in Mrs. Meece's family.
   We need some dry weahter, so we can work our crops, which are
becoming very grassy and weedy.  You say, Mr. Editor, that you kept off
the frost;  now you must try to keep off so much rain, or we will lose our
crops.
   Several of our young ladies are practicing shooting with a pop-gun, I
suppose, for fly time.  Some of them shoot very accurately.
   On the fifth Sunday in this month,  Prof. Shires will conduct singing for
the people of Cross Roads, at 2 o'clock p.m.
NUBO    


JUNE  21, 1878
"SWAN   BLUFF"
   General Green is marching on us,  it seems, with an unresisting force; 
his headquarters is everywhere.  Crap-grass show is the most common
thing at present.
   Corn is looking fine, in these parts.
   I see your correspondent from Bear creek speaks of wheat, and says it is
a great deal better than thought to be; as for this section it won't make a
half crop;  it is very light.
   The forest to be loaded with mast which is a blessing to the farmers.
   Miss Dinkie Stuart's school will be out the last of this month.
   Rufe Hill preferred fishing, last Saturday evening, to anything else.
   We have a man out here who is living on his name, and another that eats
his;  the latter has raised some flowers that weigh over one hundred
pounds.
   The Good Templar anticipate having a pic-nic on the creek, when crops
are laid by.
   Measles raging on the creek, though in a mild form.
   Frank Persley tried a spur on a mule the other day, which did not fit said
mule.  Frank was found sitting on an immovable seat.
   D. W. Peery has recovered from his hurt.
     If your friend or neighbor, Needs any earthly cheer;
     Give him your little paper, The splendid PIONEER.
     And when our hearts are sad, And nothing seems to appear;
     Along goes the mail-boy's dad, To bring out the PIONEER.
     When the rain is falling,  And the thunder seems so near;
     What stops the child from squalling?  It is the blessed PIONEER.
     Then comes the day, Friday;  What makes it seem so dear?
     The mail-boy sings, "Foddle-dink-a-di-da;    Here's your little
PIONEER."
     And when our work is o'er;  And nothing else to fear;
     We take a seat in the door,  To read the PIONEER.
     And when our hearts are sad,  And our eyes dim with tears;
     Along comes the cheering lad, With a load of PIONEERS.
     And if a man runs ashore;  His money spent for beer;
     He will dig out a little more,  To get him a PIONEER.
     But, then, think of this, We have amoung us here;
     One the girls like to kiss!  'Tis the father of the PIONEER!
CASABIANCA


JUNE  28, 1878
"SWAN"
   As there was space given my first piece, I will give you another.
   Admirable weather for farming.  The past few days have been rather
cool for the time of year.
   The farmers will soon have their crops in good condition.
   W. T. Sutton, one of our candidates for County Court Clerk, was on
Swan this week.
   There was singing last Sunday evening by Uncle Davie Peery, at
Coperas.
   It was a nickel ring he gave her.
   Miss Addie Whitesides, from Palestine, was on central Swan last
Sunday.
NUBO


   News scarce.
   Guess Nubo will give you the general news.  Crops are looking fine, at
this time, and the farmers are manfully warring with the weeds.
   W. P. Coleman, our county surveyor, laid off the homestead and dower
of the widow of the late Richard Meece.
     When the lover's in a mood,  And nothing brings him cheer;
     He seeks some secret wood, To read the PIONEER.
     Here's success to the daddy,  Of the HICKMAN PIONEER;
     Over the rolling river, Where June-apples grow so rare.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


JULY  5,  1878
"SWAN   BLUFF"
   Our farmers' hearts are being made glad by the merry hum of wheat
threshers, which bespeaks rest in the near future.
   Our crops will soon be laid by.
   Last Sunday we were disappointed by Rev. S. H. Holmes and Bro. W.
W. Harrington, who had promised to be with us on that day, but the Rev.
Andrew Peery preached for us, so we were not so badly disappointed after
all.      
CASABIANCA


JULY  12,  1878
"SWAN"
   As time and opportunity afford, I will spread a few items for the
PIONEER.
   The working season is almost over, and hope to spend some hours
working for the paper.  Perhaps I will get up something good, as I will be
done with "Texas corn culture" for this season, but would be pleased to go
to Texas with some nice "ladye," as I am a Texan in the respect.
   It has rained for the past ten or fifteen days;  heavy fogs, each morning,
that ascend,  which indicates more rain.
   Wheat crop is light;  average about 4 « bushels to the acre.  Corn looks
remarkably well in this section.
   Nearly everyone will be done plowing next week.
   Our schools opened last Monday, but with a meagre attendance, which
will increase soon.
   Peanuts look fine.  Your correspondent  has two acres that are real nice.
   There will be preaching, next Sunday, at Coperas, by Bro. Tobe
Pennington.  Also a foot-washing at Centor, by the Baptist brethren. 
Eagle-Eye, I suppose, will be up to see Miss "Vivia."
 Wm. Aydelotte has returned from Kentucky, and began a school at Pine
branch last Monday.  He will return to Kentucky in October, and again
teach school.
   W. T. Duncan will start for West Tennessee in a few weeks.
   Messrs. Bob Thompson and Eli Pogue, of Hampshire, Maury county, are
fishing on our creek.  I would not mind their coming down, if they would
bring some of those pretty Hampshire ladies with them.
   J. Q. Duncan has gone to look at the G.W.S. farm, with a view of
purchasing it.  It is on Buffalo.
   There was a sining (yes, that is what was in the paper, but I'm sure was
mispelled) at Camp-ground last Sabbath, by D. W. Peery.
   Supposing this to be enough for the present, I will close with.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


   I have never been a correspondent of your paper, but I thought I would
give a few items this week.
   Farmers are about done laying by for this season, and crops, generally,
look fine, in this locality.
   We had singing at Campground last Sunday, by D. W. Peery.
   Uncle Tobe Pennington will preach for us, next Sunday, at Coperas
branch.  Uncle Tobe is a funny old fellow and loves to talk to the boys and
girls.
   The old Baptist will have a big meeting and a foot-washing, at Centor,
next Sunday.  A happy time is expected.
   Rev. Chas. Brown commenced teaching school at Coperas branch
school-house, last Monday.  That is right!  The people should educate their
children, if nothing else.
   Good Templars are all the go, on the creek, now, and I long to see day
when the Temperance cause will spread over the land, and convert every
grocery,  grogahop and saloon into work-shops, and leave no one to
advocate the cause of the evil one.  We well know that there is five times
as much money spent for liquor as there is for the support of the Gospel.
   Mr. Wm. Aydelotte has lately returned from Kentucky, where he has
been for several months.  He talks of going back again in October, next.
   Mr. Monroe Walker, the peddler was in our midst last.
   Peaches are getting ripe, in this section.
JIM CNOW


JULY  12,  1878
"CENTERVILLE - LOCAL"
   The Iron on the new bridge at this place is being rapidly put up, and only
a few weeks will pass till we shall have about the finest bridge on Duck
river.


JULY  26,  1878
"SWAN   BLUFF"
   All done work now and nothing to do, Reckon we'll have to go to work
on the railroad.
   Corn looks universally fine.
   Uncle Tobe called in his appointment for the second Sabbath in August. 
He will be at Camp-ground to help Brother Holmes, as that is the time for
the preaching of the funeral sermon of Mary Anderson.
   I think the Murphy movement would do a great deal of good on our
creek.  I think we must have a pic-nic before long.
   Mr. Jones was in our midst this week electioneering.
   A certain Texas farmer, this year, came into our midst to raise a crop. 
After his corn had gotten large enough to plow, he took a large V. harrow,
and "went for it."  But the worst of it is,  he laid the killing of his corn on
the worms.
   We had four or five peddlers around last week.
   Mr. King has lost his mule.
   Last Sunday evening I saw a man, wife and three little urchins sitting in
front of the Blowing spring.  There was some difference in the beauty of
the man and woman;  the lady and children were a mite handsome.  I was
told that the lady, in slipping off a rock, had fallen in the water about two
feet.
   Now, Mr. Editor, you have been talking of coming to Swan long
enough.  If you don't come before long, I will have to bring down a
wagon-load of children, as they are 
anxious to see you.
CASABIANCA


JULY  26,  1878
"SWAN"
   Not very much on hand this week.
    I took a trip to Columbia last week, where I had the pleasure of meeting
the editor of the Herald and Mail.  I do not see how it is that the belles of
Columbia permit him to remain in bachelorhood.  I guess the young editor
of the PIONEER will not be a bachelor-from present prospects.
   Crops in this part of the county, look well.  Your correspondent finished
plowing one day last week, just as the clock struck five.
   On the second Sunday there was preaching at Coperas, by Brother
Pennington.  On last night, Chas. Brown preached at Camp-ground.
   Our schools are in prosperious condition at present.
   Peaches are getting ripe.  Pears are nearly gone.
   Some cider is being made.
   There will be a funeral preached on the second Sunday in August, at
Camp-ground, by Brother Holmes.
  Cannot somebody marry in the Twelfth district?
   The weather has been remarkably warm for the past two weeks.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


AUGUST  2,  1878
"SWAN"    
   The health is good at present.
   Crops are fine on our creek.
   The schools on our creek are in prosperous conditions, but one has too
much pinching and fighting.
   I hope our Murphy pic-nic will be set on foot, and great good may be
done.
   Mr. D. G. was leaning over the stream whispering to Miss L. W.   What
sweet dreams that night!
   A protracted meeting this week at Rawley's Chapel.
   Prof. B. M. Grimmitt is still in Obion county, where he has a flourishing
school.  He asked me to give his respects to the PIONEER.
   Casabianca tells us of  the Texas farmer's corn crop, etc.  Wonder if it
was the worms that killed Casabianca's three acres of corn when he
harrowed it?  No, I guess it was the V harrow.
   W. T. Duncan, of this creek, started to West Tennessee last week, and
got on Cane creek, and looked at the fan he got from her and saw her
name on it and got shied and had to come back home.
   I had the pleasure of visiting Beaver Dam Springs for the first time, on
the 28th.  There was a bran-dance (no, a tanbark-dance) there on that day. 
A large crowd was present, but too much hard cider.  I can now see the
impropriety of using cider.  The following are the visitors at the springs: 
W. M. Johnson and family, of Centreville;  H. P. Figuers,  Dr. James Akin
and Mr. Gordon and families, of Columbia;  James Bingham and family,
of Cathey's creek;  Parson Hamilton, of Bigby District.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


AUGUST   2,   1878
"CENTREVILLE-LOCAL"
Mr. D. W. Peery, of Swan, has our thanks for a handsome lot of apples.


AUGUST  8,  1878
"SWAN"
   There was great excitement on the day of election, but I hope it will
subside now.
   Considerable sickness on our creek;  mostly fever;  some chills.
   The rains that the greater portion of the county has been blessed with
recently, we stand greatly in need of;   we had some rain, but nothing like
a season;  but it helped a great deal.  We hope for more in a short time, or
our crops will be cut short.
   The meeting at Rawley's Chapel did not last only till Tuesday night;  no
conversions that I have heard of.
   There is a large marble-yard on our creek, run by one Bachelor, who is a
candidate for matrimony.  Henry, we would say by way of a suggestion,
for you to have some seats prepared for the accommodation of the ladies; 
then they will come to the marbleing-ground and marvel with you.
   Some of the boys went to town last night week to see who was elected. 
Hope they got back to their mammas safe.  Mr. Jo Brown and Miss
Jeanette Smith, of Indian creek, were united in the bonds of matrimony a
few days since.  Wish them a long and happy wedded life.  Among the
ladies in attendance was the charming Miss Annie Walker of Whitfield.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


AUGUST  23,  1878
"SWAN"
   We are in need of rain, so we can sow turnips.  The late corn is suffering
from drouth;  in fact every particle of crops needs rain very much.  If it
does not rain soon, peanuts will be cut very short.
   Warren, of Buffalo, was on our creek last week.  He was once our
conductor of vocal music in this community.
   Wm. Grimmitt and family, of Henryville, Lawrence county, was on our
creek, visiting relatives, a few days ago.
   Miss Lizzie Rochell, in company with her brother, went on a visit to
Wayne county, last week.
   Quite a quantity of peaches are being dried in our neighborhood, this
season, as they are very plentiful.
   Our schools are prospering finely, in this locality.
   We have had a series of meetings at Camp-ground lately, but no
conversions.
   Tom Briggs, of Humphreys county, is visiting relatives on our creek.
   Mr. and Mrs. Esaw Anderson have both been very sick, but are much
better now.
VOLENS  BENE  OMNI


AUGUST  30,  1878
" SWAN  BLUFF"
   Once more, I come to the front, to try and give you some items.
   We have some sickness, but nothing serious.  Mr. and Mrs. Peery are
improving slowly.  Mr. and Mrs. Esaw Anderson are better.  Mrs. Flowers
is very low.  Thos. Prince is slowly recovering from rheumatism.
  John Brigg and family are visiting relatives on this creek.
   Mr. Rochell and sister, with Mr. Smithing, returned from a visit, on
Buffalo river, a few days ago.
   We are needing rain, so we can sow turnips.  Rain would help the cattle
and sheep range, too.
   Rev. Tobe Pennington will hold a series of meetings at Coperas Rock,
beginning the second Saturday and Sunday in September.
   Wonder if the matrimonial candidates haven't met a returning-board, or
some other kind of a board, as I haven't heard of one of them being out
electioneering for some time.  Cheer up boys.
   Bros. Charles Brown still keeps up his appointment near Shady Grove.
   Some of the boys on Central Swan got into a game of "swap-jucket"
with some gypsies, a few nights ago.
   J. D. Aydlotte has returned from his bear hunt.
   It is about time farmers were throwing some corn to their hogs to start
them to thriving.
   Last Sunday morning, certain parties were seen carrying a load of guns
and from their water-melon patch, and on being asked what it meant, said
that if the vines did not bear guns and pistols,  the owners would realize no
profit.  I am sorry to say, our melon crops have to be guarded, even on the
Sabbath.  I have been informed that a certain youngster will be tried for
stealing, soon.
   Prof. Shires hasn't had very good luck, getting up singing schools, this
summer.  Hard times is the cause.
CASABIANCA


SEPTEMBER  13,  1878
"SWAN  BLUFF"
   Fodder pulling is nearly over.   Peaches are almost gone, much to our
sorrow.
   John C. Duncan will give a lecture on temperance, Saturday night, the
14th. at Camp-ground.  Every body invited to attend, and as Mr. Duncan is
a good speaker, they will not be disappointed.
   Rev. Charles Brown dismissed his school last week, on account of his
bad health.
   Miss Lavisa Peery has gone to Mr. Wm. Brown's, on Cathey's creek. 
We hope her stay will be short.
   I'm in favor of Col. Nixon's proposal to lay aside politics, betsytics,
seedtics, and all other kinds of tics and let's have a railroad.
   It is a fact that there is a wolf on Coperas branch, though it hasn't
injured anyone yet.
   The gypsies are talking of having a lot of the boys tried at the next
Court.  Look out! Boys, for another swap.
   Our old bark blacksmith has got so he can shoe one horse in a day.
   Sorghum making has begun in this neighborhood.
   What has become of the State debt?  I'd like to hear from it again.
   We see a notice circulating in our midst, stating that the cars will be
running in time to carry our present crops to market.  Hope it will prove
correct.
   Dick King has an Excesior dog, which, the other day, caught an owl that
measured 7 feet from tip to tip of it's wings.  Who can beat it?
   Uncle Davey Peery thinks he can get enough coffee for 50 cents to last
him a lifetime By getting the widow Coffee.
   Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Peery have recovered from their sickness.  Mr.
Samuel Aydelott is in very bad health, on account of old age.
CASABIANCA


"OBSERVATIONS"
   I will this beautiful morning seat myself to contribute some little to our
county paper, the PIONEER.
   Prof. Shires was out at home, last Saturday.  He was complaining of
being a little sick.  No wonder!
   I learned the R. D. Clark killed a rattlesnake last Saturday, that carried
eleven rattles and a button.


OCTOBER  11,  1878
"SWAN"
   As the correspondents of our creek have stopped, from some cause or
other, I will attempt to give a few items.
   Autumn is now upon us, and the yellow leaf is seen on every hand,
falling to the earth, which causes us to stop and reflect.
   We have a great many cases of chills and fever on our creek at the
present time;  very bad cases too.
   I learn that John Smith, of Lewis county, is making molasses on the old
Meece farm.  Going to have lots of sweetness up there.
   Miss Katie Meece is visiting her sister, Mrs. Clark, on Coperas branch,
for her health.
   Prof. Shires says he prefers to teach young ladies how to sing, rather
than make sorghum.  Either business is very sweet.
   The "Martin," of the PIONEER, was on our creek last Saturday, in
behalf of the Murphys, and we hope he will come again;  perhaps we can
show him something enticeing if he will, as we have plenty of nice ladies
up here, and he is a candidate for matrimony.
   Wheat sowing will be in order soon.
    Peanuts to be pulled next week.  So say some folks.
   J.D.A. has been bear-hunting again.
   We hear Prof. S. speaking of Stella a great deal.  Can't somebody tell us
who "Stella" is?
MOCKING  BIRD


OCTOBER  18,  1878
"SWAN"
   While circumstance will permit, I will give the ever-welcome PIONEER
a few lines, believing they may not meet that horrible waste-basket.  I am
not up to this correspondence business, but hope imperfections will be
excused, as I am very young.
   Since I wrote last, death has taken some from our midst and placed them
in immortal bliss and glory.  Mr. Geo. Sharpe lost two of his children with
fever;  only fifteen hours between their deaths.  Also Mrs. Mary Kincaid,
better known as Mary Matthews, died.  She ws married only last winter, to
Sile Kincaid.
   Frost would help the health of this vicinity a good deal, but we look for
none till the full moon.
   We have had no rain for a great length of time.  We farmers can't sow
wheat till we have some rain, which I hope we will have by the time this is
published.
    Have the citizens of our noble old county of Hickman ever given
anything to the fever-stricken districts?  If they has not, it is not too late
yet;  there is a great number of orphans we can help.  We are all able to
give something;  such as corn, wheat, potatoes, flour, etc., anything in the
provision line.  Other counties are giving such articles;  One neighborhood
in Maury county gave fifty bushels of wheat.   
   The roads on this creek were all put in good fix, so that the Judge
wouldn't get jolted too much while coming to Circuit Court, for fear he
would mention the matter to the Grand jury, for examiniation, again.
   No yellow fever on our creek, but some cases very near being it. 
Physicians pronounce it swamp fever.
   R. D. Clark has just returned from the railroad, where he has been
working out his subscription.  May others follow his example.
   Brother Tobe Pennington will begin a protracted meeting at Coperas
branch school-house to-morrow.  Come to the meeting!   
    Hurrah, for Jack Moore! For not going before that convention and
packing a fraud on his shoulders.
   John Q. Duncan has gone down on Tennessee river, to sow wheat, where
and where he expects to move to soon.
 Corn will prove to be a better price, in our county, than people think, as
we will have a larger home consumption than usual.
MOCKING  BIRD


OCTOBER  18,  1878
"SUNRISE"
   As there has been no news from this place for some time, I will give one
more jolt, hoping it will find space in the paper.
   We were all so glad that the PIONEER comes again, to cheer us with it's
jolly readings.  On last Friday evening the boys could be seen coming
from the postoffice, and were so intently occupied in reading the paper,
that they would almost ride over a person if he did not get out of the road. 
May the PIONEER herceforth be a regular weekly visitor in our midst.
   Who is "Mocking Bird?"  I'd like to know him and hear him warble a
few tra-las, if he can.
   I see that the correspondent from Elmwood says they need a music
teacher up there.  I will say that Prof. J. S. Shires, of our creek, will attend
to all such business..
   Bro. Pennington did not come to hold that meeting.  What's the matter
with him?
   A great many peanuts have been pulled, and some old peanut raisers say
that we will have a great many pulls, consequently' the crop will be light.
   Had some rain, but would like to have more.
   There will be preaching at Centre, next Sunday, by Elder Land, of Perry
county.  Singing at the same place by Prof. Shires and class.
   A certain fellow fought a woman, on Indian creek, a few days back.
SHORT- and   SWEET

"CENTREVILLE   LOCAL"
    J. F. Peery, of Swan, sent us a twin peanut, last Wednesday.

    Mrs. M. G. Peery, of Swan, last Wednesday, sent in the largest beet we
have seen.  It weighed two and a half pounds.  It was of the turnip-beet
variety.


NOVEMBER  1,  1878
"SWAN"
   I don't know that I can say anything better than that we have got Albert
S. Marks' speech out here, and think it the best one we ever read.  I do not
think that any man who has any democratic principles can read it and not
get back on one corner of the old democratic platform.  If we could have
had such men to govern our financial affairs, they would not have been in
the condition they are now in.
   There are more Jack Moore men on theis creek than you ever saw on
one creek before.  I think he will get every one that is polled on this creek. 
Hurrah for Jack!
   Health is good, in this vicinity, with two or three exceptions.  Mr. Hyram
Prince is in bad health, but is thought to be improving.  Bud Briggs is
lying very low, and his case is regarded by his friends as hopeless. 
Perhaps before this is published he will have crossed the River.
   On the 3rd. Sabbath in September, Brother White held a communion
meeting at Brother Andrew Peery's.  There was a large audience in
attendance.
   Wheat sowing, corn gathering and potato digging is all the go.  Corn is
not so good as it was last year.  The time to save corn   is when you have
it, for it will be a good price next summer.
   Our Texas farmer has sown 25 acres of wheat.  Wonder if he will harrow
it up in the spring?
   Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Peery have got another girl to live with them.
   Mr. Marion R. was up to see her again, last Sunday.  She thought he
wasn't coming back any more, as he had been gone a whole long week.
   Thos. Burcham and Hal Willis have rented the land of the Meece heirs.
   Mrs. William Brown has a new little babe.  It is sure enough little;  five
pounds-basket and all.
   D. W. Peery has put up a set of tomb stones at the grave of his little son,
Willie.  It has been discovered that this is the third set in that grave-yard,
in which there are about three hundred graves.
   Somebody ws mistaken, when they said Cunningham's new house was
being build on the south side of the public square, or I don't know east
from south.
   I was in the printing-office, at Centreville, last Saturday, and saw a great
many curiosities, and among them was W. T. Turley laying on the editor's
table.
LEONA


NOVEMBER  8,  1878
"SWAN"
    Z. D. Wilson is a citizen of Lewis county, formerly a citizen of
Centreville, lives on Cathey's creek, and is as clever as any man who has
lived a bachelor as long as he has.
   E. C. Anderson and wife were visiting relatives on Swan, this week.
   Some one wants to know if the "Shields" is a greenbacker?  If so, they
want high water in Duck river.
   Some of the boys are playing smash with coons and foxes, on this creek.
   Did Billy Rochell get $50, or was it $45?
   Newt Anderson is going to move from our creek to Cane creek.  He is a
good citizen, and his removal will be much regretted.
   We understand that Mrs. Grimmitt is going to live with her son,
Professor B. M. Grimmitt, who lives in West Tennessee.
   What has become of our vocalists, Shires, Weatherly and Peery?
   The boys in the vicinity of Rawley's Chapel are having a lively time
with their debating society.
   Wonder what the Lewis county sheep buyer thinks now, as the case
stands!
   Prof. Hungerford will begin his school as soon as he gets his crop in.
   Bud Briggs was living last Monday, still there are no hopes for him.
LEONA


NOVEMBER  22,  1878
"SWAN"
   As my crop is all garnered, and labor ended for the present, I will to-
night, while all humanity is resting in the arms of Morpheus, scanning the
valleys of dreamland and enjoying full bliss by vision, and while the
gentle rain-deops are pattering on the roof, which vivifies my mind, give
the readers of the PIONEER the doings of our beautiful creek.
   Since I last wrote, death has swept some from our midst, but we can
only deplore their absence.
   Mr. Bud Briggs died, after a protracted spell of sickness of about sixty
days.  A child of Robert Gilmore's and one of Mr. Pegram's died a short
time ago.  All three of these deaths occurred in twenty-four hours.
   There has been several parties grab-fishing on our creek, one of which I
will mention:  J. W. Burcham and Elisha Kelley caught, in one day,
seventy-five fine succors.  Several other parties have done as well.
   J. B. Flowers, of Britt's Landing, has been on a visit in our vicinity, but
has returned home.
   J. L. Weatherly has been down on Tennessee river lately.
   Chas. Brown's school closed some days since, and the little ones' hearts
were made glad by a treat of candy.
   Billie Aydelott's school was closed for want of Pupils.
   There was a party of refugees from Brownsville passed through this
neighborhood, several days ago.  We don't have any objections to them, at
all, but we are not at all satisfied about Miss Sallie M., of Laurel Hill,
going off with them, but we hope she stopped at Pinewood.  Will Mr. "H"
be so kind as to tell about it?
   The weaher has been delightful for gathering crops, and the farmers
have availed themselves of the season.
   Wheat that was sown some time ago is up, and looks promising since the
genial showers we have been  the happy recipients of, recently.
   Old man William Harder came out on election day and voted, for the
first time in fifteen years.  He will be 82 years old the 23rd. of April next.
   As it ws claimed by Jas. Aikin, at the Pulaski convention, that the 12th.
civil district of Hickman county was for Whitthorne, it has been suggested
that Mr. A. be informed that the glorious old 12th. went unanimous for
Moore.
   We hear that we will have preaching soon, by our circuit rider, Rev. Mr.
Strayhorn.  I do not know his day of appointment at Coperas branch
church, but will know in due time, and give notice of regular
appointments.
   I see that "School-girl" wants to know what has become of "Volens
Bene Omni."  I can tell her.  He is still on our creek, looking him out a
sweetheart.
   Perhaps she would like to know who "Mocking-bird" is.  That's easily
answered;  he is a young gentleman of 22 summers, and one who delights
to sing to school-girls.
   W. T. Duncan will make another effort, soon, to migrate to the West. 
He will take the train, and will have no time to think of fans and returning
home.
   A man was fined $2 and costs, for slapping a lady, on Indian creek,
some time since.
   I learn that Prof. B. M. Grimmitt and lady will visit old Hickman during
Christmas times.  We will welcome and be pleased to see them.
   "Leona" was mistaken when he said N. J. Anderson was going to move
to Cain creek;  he is going to Fall branch.
   There was preaching at Coperas last Sunday, as previously announced,
and the weather being favorable, there was a large turn out.
   There were several horses, at different times and places, supposed to
have been stolen from our creek, but when found they were faring
splendidly in a corn field.
  I learn that there has been an awful 'coon chase' on our creek, some time
since, and I would like for some one to give us the particulars thereof.
   Corn on our creek is selling at $1.50 per barrel, but is rather scarce at
that price.
   I notice that "School-boy" wants to know if "Mocking-bird" understands
music?  Did you ever see a mocking-bird that did not?  I'd like to sing to
that Shipp's Bend young lady, provided she likes my kind of music.
   We learn that Prof. Shires received a letter from his father, urging his
presence at his home in Texas, but the Professor will be a citizen of
Hickman for another year.
   On the 19th. inst., J. D. Aydelott was returning from the widow
Aydelott's where he had been sowing wheat, and just as he was coming
down a small slant, where there is an old house on the road-side, his team
took fright and ran away.  Aydelott tried to jump off the wagon, but it
turned over about that time, caught him and mashed his breast very badly. 
The team ran as far as Coperas branch, about a mile and a half.  He
followed on after them till he reached Mr. Frank Gilmore's, where he was
taken very sick.  Fears are entertained that he is seriously if not fatally
injured.
MOCKING-BIRD


NOVEMBER  29,  1878
"SWAN"
   T. W. Williams and family were visiting on Swan, last week.
   Hiram Prince is having a new chimney built to his house.
   J. D. Aydelott is rapidly improving,  "Mocking-Bird" was mistaken; 
Aydelott had borrowed a wagon, and was just taking it home when the
runaway took place.
   The people are nearly all done sowing wheat, gathering corn and such
like.  Some think there will be a large crop of wheat next year, as there has
not been a good one for several years; and the farmers have taken a great
deal of pains in putting it in.
   W.D.A. was seen going East, the other day, leading a mule with a side-
saddle on it;  guess he was going to bring her home, don't you?
   Miss B. J. Weatherly commenced a school at Camp-ground church, last
Monday;  hope she will do well.
   J. T. Beakley has moved to the Persimmon branch, so he won't be at so
much trouble getting persimmons to make beer.
   The reason why we haven't missed Prof. Shires, is because he's so
small.  How is the Prof. Getting along.
   Dock King has just returned from the railroad, where he has been
working out his subscription.  Some of our boys who have subscribed are
preparing to do likewise.  That's right, boys, let's have a railroad.
   I guess the Shields will be up soon, if it keeps on raining.  Then we can
have some fun riding on her.
   Had a fine singing at Campground, last Sunday.
   Plenty of acorns in the woods, and 'Ras Hill has his crib-his big crib-
full, and the old black sow has eight bran new pigs.  He'll have big hogs
next year.
   John Prince is talking of going to Hurricane Mills to live.  He says he
will declare himself a candidate for matrimony after he gets there.
     The boys hunt the raccoon---The profit, you know, is fur---
     But I'll sing some good old tune,  And read the PIONEER.
CASABIANCA


DECEMBER  13,  1878
"SWAN"
   Henry Thompson was on our creek this week, hunting PIONEERS to
read while in the flat woods, on a deer hunt.
   Last Sunday night week, our young folks were disappointed, as they
aimed to have singing at Mr. A. W. Anderson's but could find on one to
lead.
   Mr. Gambill has put a stock of goods in the storehouse at Swan Bluff.
   John Prince was returning from Hurricane Mills, last Sunday, and his
team ran away with him two or three times, but no damage was done.
   We understand that Sile Cade killed a colored policeman, in Columbia
last week.
   Mr. H. Prince has finished his new chimney, and the young folks
anticipate having a singing at his house;  a singing, not a burst up.
   Messrs. Gilmore, Flowers and Weatherly left for the Tennessee river,
this week, and others talk of going next week.
   W. W. McClenahan's merry laugh is once more heard on our creek.
   Look out for the Swan boys on the railroad next week.
   We are listening for the Shields this time.
   Mr. Harlan was on our creek, this week, buying sheep, at $1 and $1.25.
   Prof. Shires has returned from Centreville, where he has been teaching
vocal music.  Glad to see him back, as he is greatly missed in this
community.
   I learn that Casabianca is going to leave us soon.
   Will Flowers says that Perry county is the very place to get good wages,
and to go to Tom'' creek on Sunday to the singing.  That is excellent.
   Can anyone tell what has become of Small Fry?
LEONA


   I am again at my post to give you the events of these parts since I wrote
last.  Matters are assuming different attitudes in respect to the matrimonial
mania.  They have a tendency to brighten and give hopes to weary days. 
Some of the boys have great inclination to become relations by changing
their situations, but the girls protest against marrying, owing to the fact
that there has been no marriage in this section for several years, and say it
is out of fashion.  Who will be the first couple to lead the way?  Make up
your minds and let's have something for Christmas.
   John Beakley has moved on Persimmon branch, from Swan.
   D. W. Peery has gone to Tennessee river, to rent land, since --- well, I
won't tell it just here.  Wm. Anderson, of Coperas branch, also went, in
company with D. W.  Don't sing, D. W.
   Mrs. Dr. Tom Pettus, of Bethesda, Williamson County, was on the creek
last week, looking after the place she owns, on Coperas branch, where her
husband died a few years ago.  She went to see her step-daughter, Mrs.
Lou Huddleston, on Brushy.
   The widow Louisa Whitesides gave a wood-chopping on the 6th. inst.,
where the boys exercised their muscles all day and chatted their
sweethearts and played 'possum-pie till 11 or 12 o'clock at night, when
they disperesed to their homes,  well pleased with the day's work and
pleasures.
   I noticed some time since, where Casabianca gave an account of  "W. A.
leading a mule with a side-saddle on it, &c."  That's the small part of it, he
has rented some gound for next year.  Take her in, Bill.
   The weather has been somewhat disagreeable for several days.
   The health of our community is improving some, yet we have one
invalid, owing to old age, I suppose, uncle Sam Aydelott, who is very low.
   Wheat looks fine.
   Prof. Bumpass' writing school closed at Palestine to-day.  He will take
up a school on Dry fork of Cathey's creek, next Monday, in Maury
county.
   There was preaching at Coperas, last Sabbath evening, by Bro.
Strayhorn.  He preaches at that church on the 2nd. Sabbath in each month,
at 2 o'clock p.m.
   There have been several runaway teams lately more than I ever heard
of.  First there was Aydelott's;  some damage done, driver hurt;  next,
Rob't Gilmer's;  then Frank Matthews', and Aydelott's the second time,
and last, while Prof. Shires was coming from the mill, his team ran away,
but did no damage.
   I am in hopes to be able, before the holidays are over, to chronicle more
changes for the better.
   Hurrah for School Girl!  I never sing, unless solicited.  I am not like
most of my kind;  sing regardless of anyone.
   Yes, Vale, I'd like to sing to ---well, I won't say who, just now.
   Jim all right, Pig-Eye, on that jail business.  Would you not like for him
to come over to see you?
MOCKING-BIRD


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