1912

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"The Kinmundy Express" - Kinmundy, Illinois

 Published every Thursday by F.O. GRISSOM; $1 per year in advance

Jan. 4, 1912

- A Terrible Explosion: Charles BLAIR, known as "Johnny on the spot" together with a team, wagon and improvised building were blown to the four corners of the earth Wednesday noon by spontaneous combustion of 280 quarts of nitroglycerine which occurred near Sandoval while Blair was transferring the liquid from magazines to a wagon prepatory to haul to Carlyle. The shock was felt and report heard by citizens in Sandoval, Centralia, Odin, Fairman and even Salem. In the business section of Sandoval windows were blown from three buildings - Meyers Millinery, First National Bank, and Purnell & Co.’s Restaurant. Near the south end of town however, houses were jarred as if by earthquake and a large number of windows shattered. How the catastrophe occurred will ever remain a mystery. It is hardly possible that the explosion took place after the stuff had been placed in the wagon as the vehicle was sufficiently equipped with springs to prevent any chance of mishap. Only parts of BLAIR’s body were recovered. The tin roof of the building was found a half mile from the scene of disaster. The horses were blown some distance and badly mutilated. Where the building stood was a large hole several yards across and five feet deep. An assertion was made by a man of great experience in handling the deadly explosive, that had the accident occurred a few days earlier, when there were 1500 quarts of the liquid in the magazine, Sandoval would have been wiped into oblivion. Blair was a young man thirty years of age and is survived by a wife and children. He came from Warren, Ind. some years ago and at the time of his death was in the employ of the Illinois Torpedo Company. An inquest was held Wednesday afternoon by Coroner FOSTER and the verdict stated the man had accidently met his death by the premature explosion of nitroglycerine, cause of which was not to be ascertained. The fragments of the body were prepared for burial by Undertaker Ruddick and shipped to Oakland City, Ind. For funeral services and interment. (Sandoval Independent)

- Charles T. WADE of Farina was in the city Friday evening greeting his many friends and attending the Rebekah taffy pulling. He is being urged by his Republican friends to enter the race as candidate for the nomination of Representative in his district. (* - partial article)

- Geo. W. WHITE was called to Christopher Tuesday by message announcing a mine explosion in which his brother, Sam, was seriously injured and his son William was burned.

- James A. MAHON, of Chicago, died in the North Chicago Hospital Monday Dec. 25, 1911 at 5:30 p.m. after a severe affliction of the throat of two year’s duration following a surgical operation performed ten weeks before. Deceased was born in Boston, Mass., February 9, 1850, and was therefore aged 61 years, 10 months, 15 days at the time of his death. When quite young he moved with his parents to St. Louis, where his mother died a few years later, and from whence he came with his father, two brothers and a sister to Kinmundy in 1865, locating on a farm a few miles northwest of town. In 1871 they moved into the city and with the exception of one year spent in Boston and Indianapolis, Kinmundy was his home until he moved to Chicago in 1881, to engage in railroad clerical work, which he followed successfully until his enforced retirement two years ago. June 25, 1882, he was married to Miss Sarah LAWSON, also of Kinmundy who survives him, with one sister, Mrs. Cyrus ROBB, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, one half-brother, Joseph P. MAHAN of Chicago, and a host of other relatives and friends who will deeply sympathize with the bereaved ones in their great loss. He was buried in Elmwood Cemetery, Chicago, Thursday afternoon, with the full rites of the Roman Catholic church, the funeral being in charge of the Tribe of Ben Hur, of which he was a worthy member. Peace to his memory.

- Monday afternoon as Mrs. A.J. JOHNSON was walking from a shopping tour in this city to her home north of the M.E. Church, her feet became entangled in some of the loose telephone wires on East Street back of the O.N. TYNER property and she was thrown to the rough, frozen ground. She was semi-conscious for an instant, but got up and proceeded home with her head and face badly cut and bruised and blood flowing quite profusely. This is not the first person who has been tripped with loose wires on the streets and on different occasions horses have been entangled and runaways narrowly averted. Is it possible the city authorities are going to allow this condition to exist until some one is fatally injured or killed and then fight a big damage suit? If the owner of this rubbish will not clear it away the council should find somebody that will.

- Pretty Home Wedding: At the home of Mr. and Mrs. Clabe COCKRELL, southeast of this city, on Sunday December 31, 1911, at noon occurred the marriage of their only daughter, Miss Jennie, to Mr. W. Earl MORRIS. The bridal party entered the parlor to the strains of Mendelssohn’s Wedding March, played by Mrs. R.D. WOODLEY, and were married with the beautiful ring ceremony performed by Rev. R.D. WOODLEY pastor of the first M.E. Church, to which congregation both young people belong. They were attended by Myron ROSS and Miss Elizabeth SWIFT. The bride is an accomplished and highly esteemed young lady, being musician of unusual talent. She is a graduate of the Kinmundy High School, Class 1911, and has hosts of friends in this city. The groom is the youngest son of William MORRIS, residing northwest of this city, and is especially gifted in music; is a graduate of our city schools and also of business college in St. Louis, and is a young man of excellent character. They left on No. 23 I.C. R.R. for St. Louis to spend a few days when they will return and make their home northwest of this city where the groom is building a beautiful cottage.

- New Officers: The Township Mutual Insurance Company held their annual meeting Tuesday and elected the following officers: President - R.C. ROBB; Secretary - W.H. SHRIVER; Treasurer - C.H. WEST; Directors - S.E. HOWELL, Sam PUFFER, S.M. STOKLEY, C.H. WEST. Directors that hold over are T.C. HARKER, W.S. ROSS, Henry STOCK, Henry MOELLER, Elmer STEVENS, R.C. ROBB, W.H. SHRIVER, Harvey KELCHNER, J.W. GARRETT, Geo. WALTON, Geo. BALLANCE.

- Lillian Vivian Rosetta, only daughter of Truman and Grace SPURLIN, was born February 11, 1911. The dear little life was the sunshine of the home she had come to bless. Two weeks ago the parents saw that she was ailing but thought it nothing serious until last Wednesday when the disease began to advance, until seven o’clock when she quietly closed her eyes in the last sleep. We looked into her face and said "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord." A very beautiful service was held at their home Sunday afternoon by Rev. J.H. Ballance and the little body laid to rest in Sandy Branch Cemetery.

- Benjamin H. CRAIG wrote a letter from the U.S.S. Tennessee, N.Y. as he was in the Navy. (*- partial article)

- James GARRETT, George BARGH, and Frank ROHRBOUGH have returned for their studies at the Champaign University after spending their vacation at home.

- I have some pure bred Hereford Bulls old enough for service for sale. E.G. FORD, Alma, Ill.

- In the marriage licenses issued at Vandalia during Christmas week we notice the names of James HARDIN___, aged 58, and Mrs. Eleanor C. SNELLING, age 52, both of Kinmundy.

- Advertisement: The O.H. PADDOCK Lumber Co.; Phone 110; Kinmundy, Ill.; Paroid Roofing, the roofing with the money back guarantee (* - partial article)

- After observing that all similar business firms are adopting this plan, the cash stores over the country are sapping our trade. Therefore, in order for us to meeting this keen competition, we are compelled to take this step. We take this opportunity of thanking you for past patronage and solicit a continuance of same. We will make your living cheaper. You will find our store headquarters for Quality and Low Prices.; J.W. BROOM, Alma.

- Advertisement: Wanted! Every subscriber of the Kinmundy Express in arrears one or more years on subscription to remit by February 1^st, 1912. Are you one of ‘em?

- Advertisement: Grip and Colds Cured at F.J. NIRIDER’s.

- Advertisement: Thanks! We wish to thank our many friends and customers for their liberal patronage and announce that we have decided to move our stock to Farina and add General Merchandise. We expect to open our new store in the Osborn building on Saturday, Jan. 13^th, 1912, and will be glad to see you all. D.R. HASELDEN.

January 11, 1912:

- Will GRAMLEY Died of his Injuries: The people of Kinmundy were greatly shocked last Thursday morning, Jan. 4, 1912 by the horrifying announcement that William D. GRAMLEY, residing on the Matthew HUMPHREY farm, three miles south of this city, had been probably fatally injured by the running away of four horse team he was driving to the timber for a load of wood which report proved to be distressingly true. Mr. GRAMLEY was standing on the front bolster of the running gears of the wagon and the ground being frozen and rough, caused the king bolt to bounce out, permitting the axle to tip forward, throwing the driver at the horses’ heels at which they took fright and ran, dragged the helpless man for over a quarter of a mile when one of the horses fell down, stopping a few seconds, enabling Mr. GRAMLEY to extricate himself from his perilous position where the horse got up for another half mile dash without the driver. Though his left limb was broken twice between the knee and thigh, his skull cracked and his body badly torn he dragged himself to within hailing distance of the home of Henry STOCK, where his cries were heard Grandma METZGER, who went to his aid and then summoned other help. W.H. LESEMAN appeared on the scene and placing the wounded man on a wheelbarrow conveyed him to Mr. STOCK’s house. Dr.’s SONGER and CAMERER were immediately called and upon examination they soon found his injuries such that it would be necessary to take him to the hospital for treatment. A conveyance was procured and he was brought to this city and taken to Effingham on the fast afternoon train and placed in St. Anthony’s hospital. He stood the trip fine and after his arrival his wounds were dressed and the fracture reduced the same evening. During the night he suffered untold agony and by Friday morning it was found that he was growing weaker and at 10:30 a.m. he passed away. His internal injuries from being dragged were such that medical or surgical skill could not save him. He was accompanied to Effingham by Mrs. GRAMLEY, Mrs. Frank SCHWARTZ, Mrs. Homer STEVENSON, M.P. GRAMLEY, Frank HENSLEY, and Dr. SONGER. The body was returned to this city Friday evening and was taken to the home of his brother, Mr. and Mrs. M.P. GRAMLEY, where it remained until Sunday when the funeral services were held in the Christian Church at 11 o’clock, conducted by Elder Wm. J. SIMER, after which the body was laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery, six sturdy nephews acting as the pall bearers. William D. GRAMLEY was born in Omega Township and was 38 years, 1 month, and 29 days old at the time of his death. His entire life was spent in Marion county where he was well known and dearly loved by all who were blessed with his acquaintance. He was married Nov. 7, 1900 to Miss Elizabeth HUMPHREY, who, with one son, Humphrey, aged 4, four sisters, four brothers, and a host of other relatives and friends, survive to mourn the loss of a loving husband, father, brother, friend and neighbor, cut down in the prime of a noble manhood. Mr. GRAMLEY was for 8 years in business with his brother in Kinmundy and spent five years in Salem. For the last 4 years he has been practically in charge of the HUMPHREY farm. He was a member of the M.W. of A. Will GRAMLEY was a manly man for whose living the world will be better, and for whose sad death it will be lonesome for a long, long time. Peace to his precious memory and condolence to the loved ones left to mourn.

- Advertisement: Going to the Texas Panhandle Tuesday! You will never find a more opportune time to make this delightful trip. We promise to show you the Garden Spot of the great southwest. The place where an investment in land will double in value in a very short time. This Soil is very productive and nature provides sufficient rainfall to make crop failures unknown. No chinch bugs to destroy your crops. J.A. ARNOLD, formerly of Kinmundy, Talks about the Panhandle. Read these notes carefully which were written by your former townsman, J.A. ARNOLD, now Sec. of the Commercial and Business Men’s Association of Texas: Iowa capitalists have purchased 18,000 acres of land near Plainview and are dividing it into 40 acre tracts for small irrigated farms. During the past year approximately 90,000 homeseekers and alien immigrants have entered Texas. Texas has 165,747,000 acres of surface land, of which about 30,000,000 are under cultivation. Texas offers the most wonderful opportunity in the world for satisfactory dividends on the investment of money, muscle and mind. The remarkable production of 200 bushels of sweet potatoes grown on one acre of land was achieved by John DeLeauture of Guymon. The potatoes were large and were marketed at 4 cents a pound or $2 per bushel in making four hundred dollars on the one acre tract. In Texas in the year 1910, the average number of sheep per farm was 200 compared with 65 in the United States at large. In a recent deal at Dalhart, 2000 head of steers were sold for $100,000, the entire lot going to Emporia, Kansas. The largest turkey raised in Texas last year weighed 47 lbs. and was shipped to Boston. A California grape grower has purchased 340 acres of land near Plainview and will devote the entire tract to the culture of grapes. A Crosby county farmer recently shipped to Galveston warehouses a full car of cotton raised on his farm. Uncle Sam has been going thru his rye fields and he finds 2, 436, 000 acres in better condition than in the past 10 years. Wisconsin leads all states in the Union in the area, having 391,000 acres. Texas has 4000 acres of rye and is a very productive crop. Arrangements have been made all over north Texas to concentrate hides and wool in Fort Worth for direct shipment to the tanneries.  Make your plans to accompany us to the Panhandle the next excursion, which will be run on Tuesday, January 16^th, and if you do not find the conditions good or better than we tell you, we will cheerfully refund your railroad fare and other necessary expenses. Could you expect a proposition to be more fair? By making this trip you are in no way obligated to buy land. We have some choice lands to offer you at a price that will make you more money than Illinois land, bank stock or bonds. Give your children a chance to make money by investing in a Panhandle while the price is right. Call and see W.B. RUSHING at Dad’s Hotel, Kinmundy.

January 18, 1912

- Mrs. Mary WALKINGTON, who resided with her daughter, Mrs. Fred ALVATER in Alma township, about 7 miles southeast of this city, died last Wednesday morning at the age of 82 years. The funeral service was held at the residence on Thursday, conducted by Elder Wm. J. SIMER, after which interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery. The deceased was born in England, Oct. 16, 1829, and came with her parents to America when quite young. She was married in 1849 to William WALKINGTON, and resided in Michigan until 1882, when they removed to Alma township with her husband, one son, and one daughter. The surviving children are Charles and George of Greenville, Mich; ______ of Covert, Mich.; Lyman, John _____, Enis Davis and Mrs. Fred Alva____ of this county.

- Mrs. Matilda P. YOUNG, widow of the late Andrew M. YOUNG, died at her home in this city, Monday morning, January 15, 1912 at 4:45 a.m., aged 80 years, 8 months, and 7 days. Mrs. YOUNG had been suffering with rheumatism for some time and was not considered dangerously ill until a few days before her death, although she had been failing rapidly for several months. The funeral service was held from the family residence at 2 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by Rev. J.W. RITCHEV after which interment was made in the Evergreen cemetery.

- George Ruben NELSON was born in Alma, Illinois, September 19, 1891, and died in Kinmundy at the home of his sister, Mrs. Elmer MALONE, on last Thursday, January 11, 1912, aged 21 years 3 months and 23 days. Ruben was a good boy and grew to manhood in Kinmundy, was very industrious, being employed at the butcher trade until failing health compelled him to seek lighter employment. Under the pastorate of Rev. F.O. FANNON, he was converted about 6 years ago and joined the Christian Church. He was a regular attendance at the Sabbath School and will be greatly missed by the members of his class. The funeral service was held in the above church on Saturday January 13 at 10 a.m. conducted by Rev. J.H. BALLANCE, after which the remains were conveyed to the Martin Cemetery, near Alma, and laid to rest to await the coming of the last great day. The deceased leaves a father James NELSON, 2 sisters, Mrs. Wm. HOLMAN and Mrs. Elmer MALONE, all of this city, who have the sympathy of all in their sad loss.

- Miss Margaret ALLEN, the eldest daughter of Robert and Anna ALLEN, was born near Kinmundy, Ill., Dec. 2, 1861, and died at her home in this city Tuesday, Jan. 9, 1912, aged 50 years, 1 month, and 7 days. She was united in marriage to James W. SANDERS Oct. 30, 1881, and to this union were born 6 children - 4 boys and 2 girls - all of whom survive the mother. Besides these she leaves 2 sisters and 3 brothers, the sisters and youngest brother being in attendance at the last services of their departed sister. Mrs. SANDERS was a faithful wife, a loving mother, a kind and affectionate neighbor, and will be greatly missed in the home and vicinity. She was a sympathetic friend in time of sickness trouble, always ready to administer to the wants of others. Her life has gone out but she will not be forgotten. She was a member of the Royal Neighbors of America, and this Order attended the last sad rites to pay their tribute of respect to the deceased. She was also a loyal member of the Ladies Aid Society of the Presbyterian Church and this band of ladies deeply feel the loss of one of their most noble members. The funeral service was held in the Presbyterian church on Thursday, January 11, at 10:30 a.m., conducted by Rev. J.H. BALLANCE, assisted by her pastor, Rev. J.W. RITCHEY, after which the body was laid to rest in beautiful Evergreen Cemetery.

- Chas. SIMER died at his home near Omega last Thursday, of creeping paralysis, after a brief illness. He had been confined to the house a short time and his condition was not considered serious and his death was a great surprise to his own family as well as the many friends and neighbors. Charles was 30 years of age and a farmer always on the hustle and he is a man that will be greatly missed in that community.

- Mrs. A.D. MARTIN of Vandalia, arrived in this city, Tuesday evening to attend the funeral of her aunt, Mrs. A.M. Young.

- Mrs. Emmet YOUNG and son, came down from Chicago in answer to a message announcing the death of her mother-in-law, Mrs. Matilda P. YOUNG.

- Mrs. Wm. CHAPMAN and son, Edwin, of New Orleans, arrived in this city Wednesday morning to attend the funeral of her mother, Mrs. Matilda Young.

- Mr. Benjamin F. BENNETT, of Iuka, and Miss Myrtle Perry, of this city, were united in marriage Sunday, January 14, 1912, at the home of the brides parents, Frank Perry and wife, Rev. J.W. RITCHEY, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, performing the ceremony.

- Miss Nellie HERRICK died at the home of her mother, Mrs. Sarah HERRICK, in Indianapolis, Sat., Jan. 13, 1912, and the funeral services were held at the home on Monday and interment made in that city. She grew to womanhood in this city where the family resided for years.

- William PORTER, aged 20 years residing south of Iuka, was frozen to death Monday night within a mile of his home when it is supposed he lost his way and wandered around in the snow for some time. He had been mentally deranged and it was thought his mind was bothering him the night of his death.

- A letter from Ed HERRICK was printed. He was formerly of this city, but now at Paragould, Ark.

- Farina Express: Miss BENDER of Ohio is visiting in this place with her sister, Mrs. BASSETT.

- Farina Express (from last week) - A year old baby of Haman LACEY’s died Sunday night.

- Advertisement: Well, Well, Well! 1912 Found Us right here on the job with the best stock of lumber, dimension, siding, casing, base, shingles, etc., on hand that we ever had at this time of the year and our only excuse for having it was our strong belief that the people of this community in 1912 are going to try out good, sound home investments in preference to a lot of those far away "Get Rich Quick" schemes that are like the song of the sirens. This lumber we have came from some of the best quality mills in the United States and we are not afraid to put it up against any material in the world for home building - price, quality, durability, and long time satisfaction considered. You’ve got to see it to appreciate it, or come in and we’ll talk over that new home of yours. "There’s no Place Like Home". The O.H. PADDOCK Lumber Co.; Phone 110, Kinmundy, Ill.

- Advertisement: DeLaval! 90 percent of the Creameries in the United States use DeLaval Separators. We have them in all sizes. Geo. P. TOMLINSON.

January 25, 1912:

- Four Railroad Officials Killed at Kinmundy. One I.C. and three Rock Island Men crushed to Death While Asleep in Rock Island Private Car. Four Men in the Car Escape Uninjured. The most Disastrous Collision in History, Considering the Prominence of those killed - Three R.R. Men Hurt: Last Saturday evening, about 5 o’clock a party of railroad officials left Chicago in a Rock Island private car hitched to the rear end of the south bound Illinois Central train No. 25. The party were enroute to Memphis on business of interest to the Rock Island Company. The evening in this car was spent in a social way till about 10 :45, when all the party, except the Negro porter, retired. This train No. 25 is followed by another fast train No. 3, and the difference between their schedule time is only about 30 minutes at this place. Sunday night No. 25 arrived at Kinmundy about 30 minutes late and were on _____ time of the second train. The first train stopped for water at the _______ north of the depot and there they were standing - passengers nearly all asleep and perhaps some of them dreaming of the sunshine south for which they were enroute - this private car was ploughed into by the engine on train No. 3, and the standing train shoved toward a distance of 170 feet. The crash of the collision and the jar was felt and heard for several blocks. Two men, _____ B. RUSHING of Plainview, Tex., and Isaac KOPF, who were stopping at Dad’s Hotel, were just preparing to retire, heard the crash and hastened to the scene and seeing the collision of the affair, and the immediate need for help, sounded the bell. In a few minutes, help had arrived and rescue work had begun. Four of the escaped from the wrecked car without injury - 2 white men and two colored - the last two being the _____ and the porter. The white men, Byron V. CURRY, secretary to the 2^nd Vice President of the _______ of Chicago, and Hon. T.S. BUZBEE, Rock Island, ____ for the states of Louisiana and Arkansas with headquarters in Little Rock. These men escaped within a few inches as this huge _____ spent its force and stopped a few inches from where they were both sleeping. These called to their comrades, but _____ came, and the escaping _____ was almost suffocating and ______ the true and terrible condition of 4 members of their party, they found the front door of their crushed car and escaped in their night clothes. Kinmundy citizens soon arrived and the relief and rescue work was began. The engine on the rear train, going about 30 miles an hour, had crushed into the back end of this private car. The 2 outside walls remained in tact and were standing on each side of the boiler where they remained until a pull was made by the engine in trying to pull the wrecked car off No. 3's engine, when one of the two dead men fell from the wreckage to the ground. The roof was covering the engine, but the interior of the car was a mass of bodies, bedding, clothing, and other contents of the car. The railroad men and home people went inside and commenced the search for the dead. One by one the dead officials were removed from the debris. The dead men were: J.T. HARAHAN of Chicago, ex-president of the Illinois Central; F.O. MELCHER, 2^nd Vice President of the Rock Island Headquarters at Chicago; Judge E.E. PIERCE of Memphis, the Rock Island, headquarters at Chicago; Judge E.E. PEIRCE of Memphis, the Rock Island Attorney fro the State of Tennessee; E.B. PEARCE, of Chicago, General Solicitor for the Rock Island. Those injured in the crash were: R.J. STEWART, engineer on No. 3, thumb broken, head and face cut and bruised; C.M. VERT, fireman on No. 3, cut on head and ankle broken or dislocated; Jesse GILBERT, fireman on No. 25, was thrown from the top of the tender to the ground and had one hip badly wrenched and otherwise badly bruised. The three wounded men were taken to the waiting room at the depot, where they were given surgical attention by Doctors CAMERER and SONGER. They were taken to the hospital at Champaign on No. 10 a few hours after the wreck. The four dead officials were taken to the undertaking rooms of W.W. NEIL and J.H. NELMS, where they remained till after the arrival of the coroner. The news of the terrible disaster was soon spread over the United States over the telegraph and telephone wires, and the news of the disaster was being heralded over many of the large cities before some of the Kinmundy people knew of it. How such a terrible disaster could occur and not kill and cripple more people is a miracle. One good feature of the unfortunate affair is that the wreckage did not take fire, although it was expected that it would be ablaze every minute. To avoid such a fearful thing the engineer pulled the fire in his engine and every precaution was taken to prevent the burning of the ruins. This wreck adds a page in history of one of the most disastrous railroad collisions that ever occurred. Never before were so many prominent men killed at one time. The Illinois Central wreck train arrived from Centralia a few hours later and the work removing the debris was commenced and the men worked unceasingly until their task was completed, which was some time late Monday night. The Company started a special train from Centralia in charge of General Manager FOLEY, and the special arrived here about half past six. The word was then given out that the three dead officials from Chicago would be taken home on this special, and the body of the Memphis man would leave on train No. 5 at 9 a.m. Deputy Coroner Grant FEATHERING came up from Centralia on the special train and empaneled the following jury: H.O. MEYER, merchant; Richard WATTS, deputy sheriff of the City Court, Clyde STEEN, reporter on the Sentinel, all of Centralia, Geo. W. WHITE, T.M. SMITH and Fred O. GRISSOM, of Kinmundy. The jury, after being sworn in, retired to the Private Car of Mr. FOLEY, where the evidence of T.S. BUZBEE, B.V. CURRY and Isaac KUPF was heard, after which the jury adjourned to re-convene at the Coroner’s office in Centralia at ten o’clock the same morning. After arriving in Centralia the evidence of John H. BRAINARD, the conductor of No. 25 was heard. He testified that No. 3 had to be flagged at Effingham and upon leaving that place, he instructed his flagman to look out for No. 3 at Kinmundy as they were going to stop for water. He said he was standing in the baggage car door when his train stopped and his flagman was then out flagging No. 3 and the engineer recognized the flag with 2 blasts of the whistle. He jumped from the train to the ground before the fatal crash and escaped unhurt. BRAINARD testified the crew on No. 3 certainly knew they were following close to No. 25 as they were out of Effingham 10 minutes apart. The flagman on No. 25, Harry J. BROEKER, was the next witnessed examined. His testimony was about the same as his conductors, and he said he obeyed his orders about flagging No. 3 and he jumped from his train while it was in motion to do the work. He run north some distance swinging the stop signal and he says the engineer answered the signal by 2 blasts of the whistle. He says after alighting he ran as fast as he could till he met the approaching engine which was very close when he first left his train. The other witnesses being sent to Champaign, the jury adjourned until 10 a.m., Friday the 26^th, to hear the remainder of the testimony. The Railroad Company, The Railroad and Warehouse Commission, and the public commenced an investigation at Champaign on Tuesday to see to where and to whom lies the blame of this terrible affair. At this time it is impossible to say who is to blame but one thing is certain, the schedule time of these two trains is too close for the safety of the passengers. The I.C. officials ran a special train from Champaign Tuesday night, which followed No. 25 from Edgewood to this city, No. 25 arrived here 8 minutes ahead of the Special Train and the torpedoes, whistling, etc. caused considerable uneasiness among many of our citizens who were aroused by the commotion. It was a test run, but what they were trying to test no one seems to know.  (Picture of the wreck was included)

- Mrs. Matilda P. YOUNG, widow of the late Andrew M. YOUNG, who died at his home in this city June 26, 1909, died in the same home January 15, 1912. She was born in Corrinth, New York, May 8, 1831, and was at the time of her death 80 years, 8 months and 7 days. She was married to A.M. YOUNG July 9, 1854, and to this union was born 3 children; 1 son, who died several years ago, and 2 daughters, Mrs. Wm. CHAPMAN of New Orleans, and Mrs. Frank V. DAVIS of this city, both being present at the funeral. The funeral services were held from the home Wed. afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. J.W. RITCHEY, pastor of the Presbyterian Church after which the remains were laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery.

- J.N. EMBSER, of Alma township, has purchased the Alma lumber and undertaking business and the L.C. PULLEN residence in Alma, which he expects to occupy in a few weeks. He will have a public sale of livestock and other personal property on or about Feb. 6^th. "Rome" is a hustler on the farm and we predict that he will succeed in his new business.

- Omega: Born to Mr. And Mrs. A.A. SOUTHWARD last Monday night a baby girl.

Feb. 1, 1912:

- John W. WILSON was born in Alma township, Marion Co., Ill., on Thursday, Nov. 11, 1852. He resided on the farm, attending school in an old log school house in winter, till 1869 when he came to Kinmundy and entered the public schools, and after a two years course went to Lebanon where he attended McKendree College 2 years. After receiving his education he received the appointment of deputy Sheriff under H.R. HALL and for 2 years he filled this office. About Jan. 1, 1876, he engaged in the grocery business in Kinmundy, later going into the general mercantile business, which he followed for about 30 years. As a businessman Mr. WILSON was a hustler and at one time almost controlled the mercantile business of Kinmundy. Something like 5 years ago, Mr. WILSON disposed of his business and engaged in buying and shipping stock, which he followed several months, then accepting a position as a traveling salesman, which profession he followed until the final call came. On Thursday, May 25, 1876, he was united in marriage to Miss Della YOUNGKIN, of this city, who, with one brother and 2 sisters survive him. Mr. WILSON had been failing in health for 3 or 4 years, and on different times has been confined to his room, but his late illness was of short duration, lasting only 4 days. He was called to answer the final summons on Friday, Jan. 26, 1912, at 6:30 p.m. at the age of 59 years, 2 months, 15 days. The funeral service was held in the Christian Church, of which he was a loyal member, on Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. F.O. FANNON, assisted by Rev. F.A. WOODLEY. The church was crowded with relatives friends and neighbors. The burial service was under the auspices of Kinmundy Lodge, No. 398, A.F. & A.M. of which the deceased was a member.

- Mrs. A. A. SOUTHWARD died at his home in Omega Tuesday evening at 6 o’clock. The funeral service will be held from the Omega Presbyterian Church on Thursday starting at 10 o’clock and interment will be made in the Millican Cemetery.

- Advertisement: Public Sale Continued One Week. Because of the extreme cold and almost impossible condition of the roads, and to give all an opportunity to secure some of our Unheard of Bargains, this sale will continue one week more including Feb. 10. Thanking you for your very liberal patronage we ask you to come again and keep coming. Very truly yours, M.A. SONGER and BROWN.

- Advertisement: Change in Firm at the Kinmundy Candy Kitchen. Owing to ill health, Peter PANDEL has sold his interest in the Kinmundy Candy Kitchen to George KLADES, of Effingham, who with the former member of the firm, James PAUPPES, will continue the business. Fresh Home Made Candy on sale every day in the week. Call and See Us! Try a Box of our Candy.

Feb. 8, 1912:

- John EAGAN, the third son of Isaac and Athaline EAGAN was born Sept. 22, 1835, and died Feb. 2, 1912, age 76 years, 4 months, and 11 days. He was married to Miss Mary SOUTHWARD Sept. 20, 1861, to this union was born 7 children: Maggie Eagan HOWELL, Alice Eagan HERRICK, Sidney EAGAN, Delbert EAGAN, William EAGAN, Pearl Eagan BOSLEY, Charley EAGAN. Maggie, Alice and Pearl have preceded their father to the spirit world; Mary EAGAN, his wife, passed away July 22, 1892. He afterwards married Mrs. Kate STEADMAN who survives him. He was converted Feb. 17, 1867, and joined the Presbyterian Church under the preaching of Rev. J.E. SHARP, was elected Deacon in 1870, and was afterwards elected Elder in 1877 to fill a place his father had filled, and which office he held until his death. He was a good Christian character and faithful to his church, always is attendance when health would permit. He leaves besides his wife and 4 sons, 15 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, 1 brother, Erasmus EAGAN, 2 sisters, Mrs. Samuel PUFFER and Mrs. Harriett HAWORTH, a number of nephews and nieces and a host of friends to mourn their loss. He lived in Kinmundy all his life and never lived a quarter of a mile from the place where he was born, but he has bone the way of all the world but his life will not be forgotten. The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian Church Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock conducted by Rev. J.H. BALLANCE when the remains were conveyed to Evergreen Cemetery to await the last great day.

- Thomas J. CHARLTON was born in Holmesville, Ohio, July 24, 1836, and died at his home in Kinmundy on Saturday, Feb. 3, 1912, aged 75 years, 6 months, and 10 days. On Nov. 11, 1859, he was united in marriage to Miss Katherine THOMPSON, of Fredericksburg, Ohio, and the wife passed away about 5 years ago. He enlisted as a private in Company G of the 166 Regiment Ohio National Guard in 1864. After the close of the war he moved with his family to Paxton, Ill., where he resided for several years. In the year 1898 he moved to a Marion county farm where he lived and prospered till he retired and moved to this city 6 years ago. He was again united in marriage in May 1910, to Mrs. Anna BOUGHERS of St. Louis. Besides a widow he leaves 4 sons, 3 daughters, 27 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren to mourn his departure. The funeral service was held at the residence on Monday, Feb. 5^th, at 10 o’clock conducted by Rev. J.H. BALLANCE, and the body placed in Evergreen Cemetery.

- William S. NICHOLS, was born in Salem, Marion Co., Ill., on Dec. 21, 1837, and died at his farm home in Meacham twp., 10 miles northeast of Kinmundy, Feb. 2, 1912, age 74 years, 1 month, and 11 days. April 12^th, 1855, he was united in marriage to Permelia Ann HOLTZHOUSEN, and to this union was born 9 children - 3 boys and 6 girls. Of this number 2 boys and 2 girls have passed away, and the remaining ones are: Mrs. Kizzie SMITH and Mrs. Viola SMITH of near Farina; Mrs. Ella ALLPHIN, of Doniphon, Mo.; Mrs. Hattie COCKRELL, of near Kinmundy; and Harry NICHOLS, who resides on the homeplace east of Farina. Besides these children, he leaves a wife, 19 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his departure. He was a faithful husband and father in reality to his children. About the year 1885, he was converted and united with the M.E. Church South. He was loyal to his Creator and the church, and was conscious to the end, his last words being, "Good bye, ma". The funeral service was held at Union Church, Sunday, Feb. 4, at 11 a.m. conducted by Rev. J. H. BALLANCE, after which the body was laid to rest in the Elder Cemetery.

- The members of the Kinmundy volunteers Fire Department met last Friday night in pursuant to a call by Chief Chas. F. PRUETT. The annual election of officers was one of the important features of the evening and resulted as follows: Geo. W. SNELLING - Chief; Ellis WOLFE - 1^st Assistant; C.F. PRUETT - 2^nd Assistant; J.L. LASWELL - Hose Captain; C.B. MENDENHALL - 1^st Assistant; F.W. KILLIE - 2^nd Assistant; G.M. NIRIDER - 3^rd Assistant; F.E. NELMS - Ladder Captain; B.J. ROTAN - Assistant; J.T. BROWN - Engineman; Andrew JACKSON - Assistant; F.O. GRISSOM - Sec-Treas.

- Miss Myrtle Mae GRAMLEY was born in Omega twp. June 16, 1872, and died at her home in the same vicinity Jan. 29, 1912. On March 4, 1897, she was united in marriage to Arthur A. SOUTHWARD, a prosperous farmer of the same township and the life of the deceased was spent in this place. There is left behind, the husband, three small children - 1 son and 2 daughters - 2 sisters, Mrs. J.S. KNISELEY and Mrs. Charles SEE; 3 brothers, Marion, Martin, and Edward GRAMLEY. The deceased was a faithful member of the Omega Presbyterian church to which she became a member when 14 years of age. The funeral services were held in this church on Thursday, Feb. 1^st at 10 a.m., conducted by Rev. David RAVENS of Seattle, Wash., and Rev. Wm. J. SIMER of Omega, both being old friends of the family. Interment was made in the Millican Cemetery. The sorrowing ones have the sympathy of all.

- Advertisement: Announcement! The new implement firm of TELFORD & WILKINSON opened today and are ready to supply the public with Harness, Buggies, Implements and Seed Oats. We have a large line of Harness on all kinds that we are going to sell at practically cost, as we do not intend to handle harness on a very large scale. If you need harness this spring don’t fail to call on us. We are expecting several cars of ear corn this week. You will find us every ready to serve you, and give you not only the most, but the best for your money. Come to the H.E. MINER stand and lets start a friendship that will be profitable to us all. Watch for our ads from week to week. It’ll pay. Yours for a Square Deal, TELFORD & WILKINSON.

- Coal and Feed. I wish to announce to the people of Kinmundy and vicinity that I have purchased the W.J. BOCOCK coal business and am prepared to sell you the best Johnson City Coal at the lowest possible prices. Coal and Feed delivered to all parts of the city. Phone us at 85 your next order for coal and feed. Prompt delivery service. G.W. WHITE.

February 15, 1912:

- Clyde Bradley CAMERER, Surgeon in the U.S. Navy stationed on the U.S.S. Yorktown in Guayaquil Ecquador, wrote a letter about the area.(* - partial article)

- Early last Friday morning, George KAMP and wife of Salem were so severally burned in an explosion while attempting to kindle a fire with gasoline, that they died a few hours after the accident in the Centralia Hospital. In the explosion, both man and wife were afire in an instant, as their clothing was saturated with the explosive. The husband rushed out of doors screaming with pain and trying to extinguish the flames of his burning clothing. He soon thought of his unfortunate wife who had gone to the bed room with her clothes ablaze. The room had no outer door and she must have immediate aid. The bed room window was broken out and the beds were already on fire and Mrs. KAMP was taken from the mass of flames and dragged out the window, after which she fainted and fell into a snow drift. One daughter, Bertha, 8 years of age, was badly burned and will recover. Another daughter Effie did not come home Thursday night to sleep as was her custom. Mr. KAMP and wife were carried to the nearby neighbors home, where they were given all possible medical assistance and before leaving of the Illinois Southern train it was decided to take them to the Centralia Hospital which was done. The unfortunate man and wife both died about 10 the same day. The remains were brought back to Salem for burial, the funeral being held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Christian Church. This is certainly a sad affair and the 2 remaining children have the entire sympathy of everybody. The home and contents were totally destroyed.

- The village of Alma had quite a scare Tuesday when it was found that the J. RHODES hotel was on fire but the prompt work of the city and it’s liberal use of water, had the fire extinguished after considerable damage to the building.

- Vitula PLEASANT of Murphysboro passed peacefully away at the home of her brother, Rev. A. _____ in this city. The funeral will be held at the parsonage conducted by Rev. J.H. _____.

- Advertisement: California Through Tourist Sleeping Cars, March 2, 3, 4, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 13, 14, 15, 16. On the above dates the Illinois Central Railroad will operate a through tourist sleeping car from Chicago to San Francisco, via Omaha, Union Pacific to Ogden, and Southern Pacific to destination. This through tourist sleeping car will leave Chicago on I.C.R.R. train No. 5 at 2:30 a.m. and make connection at Omaha with Special Colonist Train running on the fast schedule from Chicago to San Francisco, Cal.  Dining car serving meals at popular prices will be a feature of this train. Victor Eictrola Concerts will entertain car patrons morning, afternoon, and evening. Second class one way colonist far is $33.60 from Kinmundy via the Illinois Central with corresponding low fares from other points. E. WORMLEY, Agent, Kinmundy. (* - partial advertisement)

February 22, 1912

- Chas. SHUFELDT, one of the prosperous farmers residing 4 miles south of this city has been busily engaged the past few weeks, talking rock roads with farmers, land owners, and business men near and in Kinmundy. The road, so we understand, is to commence at the M.E. church and rocked just as far south as the money permits. A petition is being circulated asking the privilege of issuing bonds to rock roads in the township, and a question will probably be submitted in the April election. (* - partial article)

- James H. LEWIS has returned home from Gray Ridge, Mo., where he accompanied F.E. GILLEY with his car of stock. Jim says Frank has rented a good farm and is in a good country. Mrs. GILLEY and daughter expect to leave in a few days for their new home. Their many Kinmundy friends hope the move will be a profitable one both in health and finance.

- The Wm. CLOW property near the C. & E.I., was sold at public sale last Wednesday and was purchased by T.M. SMITH for $330.

- Martha Elizabeth GUNN MAXON, daughter of John C. and Caroline GUNN, was born at Old Richview, Washington Co., Ill., on the 1^st day of May, 1846, and died at the home of her sister, Mrs. W.W. NEIL, in this city, on Feb. 18, 1912, at 7:30 a.m. aged 65 years, 9 months, and 12 days. Mrs. MAXON leaves one brother, 3 sisters, and 1 adopted brother, Hon. J.F. DONOVAN, of this city, with numerous other relatives and friends to mourn her departure from earth. In Nov. 1867, she was married to D.W. MAXON, a soldier of the Civil War, and by calling a locomotive engineer, who was killed by accident in the State of Kentucky in 1886. To them was born one child who preceded her to the world beyond. Most of her life was spent in this vicinity, living for sometime during her married life in the South with her husband and later in life with relatives in St. Louis. For some time she was a great sufferer and all that love and skill could possibly do to relieve was done for her but surgery and medicine alike failed, and she has gone to that farther and more beautiful world in which there are neither sickness nor death. The funeral services were held at the M.E. Church Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 conducted by Rev. R.D. WOODLEY, and interment made in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Advertisement: Notice! Having purchased the Lumber Business in Alma, I am prepared to meet your demands in Everything in Lumber, Building Material, Lime, Sand, Cement, Builders Hardware, Coal, and Undertaking Supplies. Give me a chance to "show you" when needing anything in my line. Thanking you in advance, I am yours in business, J.N. EMBSER. Alma, Ill., L.C. PULLEN stand.

- Advertisement: Drink Habit Cured by Neal method at the Institute or in the home in 3 days. A purely vegetable and harmless medicine taken internally. No hyperdermics. More than 50 Neal Institutes now in operation in the United States and abroad. $100,000 capital. For information regarding both Liquor and Drug addictions address, Neal Institute, 316 9^th St., Murphysboro, Ill.

- Advertisement: Farmers - Bring in your discs and have them sharpened. It won’t be long before you will need them. I am going to do sharpening at half price till March 15^th. Now don’t put it off again. You can’t afford to use a dull disc when you can get one sharpened at such a low price. C.A. HEICHER.

February 29, 1912

- On Feb. 19, 1912, at Chicago, Ill. occurred the marriage of Otis E. SEE and Miss Elizabeth NEWBIESER of Hegewisch, Ill., the ceremony being performed by County Judge SLAUSSER in his office on the 7^th floor of the Federal building. The bride is the youngest daughter of Mrs. A.C. NEWBIESER of Hegewisch and is a very charming young lady. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. M.H. SEE of near this city. He is an enterprising young man holding a responsible position with the Pennsylvania R.R. at Hegewisch. Mr. and Mrs. SEE will reside at Hammond, Ind. Their many friends extend congratulations.

- Farina: Grandma SWIGGLE died Sunday.

- Omega: Burley SWALLEY, who is teaching school north of Kinmundy, spent Sunday with his parents south of Omega.

- F.M. BASCOM left Sunday for his home in Mott, N.D., after a three months visit in Kinmundy and Farina with home folks.

- Last Friday was the 69^th birthday of Ben DOOLEN and in order to celebrate the occasion a dozen or more male friends were invited to spend the evening at his home. Several hours were enjoyed in card playing, eating, smoking, and exchanging "yarns". All present enjoyed the evening and expressed a desire to be present at his next birthday.

- Ben GARRETT and wife and Mrs. Harriett DEW spent Saturday at J.F. HOWELL’S.

- Abbreviated History: The following articles were taken from the Express files and will prove very interesting to our readers. It will be continued from week to week: 

Nov. 7, 1883: The first issue of The Express consisted of 12 pages and contained 17 column of advertising. In it we find the marriage of Mollie REEDER to Sid SMITH; the wooden wedding of G.W. GILMORE and wife of this city and Noah WARNER and wife, of Alma; the public sale of R.F. POPE, the appointment of G. FENSTER as marshal by Mayor DONOVAN, and a strong plea for a coal mine in Kinmundy.

Nov. 15, 1883: The death of Wm. SIMPSON; vote on the proposition to move the court house from Salem to Odin, 2 to 1 against it; E. HERRICK and B. BLAKESLE visit Salem to work up a telephone E.G. MENDENHALL returns from Cincinnati to engage in the nursery business; the burning of D.P. SNELLING’s house on Third Street; editorials advocating coal mine and building and loan association.

Dec. 6, 1883: C. ROHRBOUGH took charge of mill

Dec. 21, 1883: G. HARLAN sold to S. McHATTON house on Monroe Street for $300; Prof. CHILCOAT resigned as Supt. of Schools, Prof. WARNER takes his place;

Dec. 28, 1883: Dr. FORSHEE treating 2 cases of small-pox in Fayette County north of us; marriage of Ben GEE to Matilda WAUGHR

Jan. 4, 1884:W.W. Neil qualifies as collector, bond $21,000 there being over 10,000 to collect

Jan. 25, 1884: Death of G.P. Kennedy, aged 61

Feb. 8, 1884: Unprecedented revival at the M.E. church, many conversions

March 7, 1884: Birth of little Tom HAYMOND

March 16, 1884: Wm. Leseman buys the 160 acre farm of D.C. WHISNANT for $4000; marriage of E.G. MENDENHALL to Alice BOGERT; Early MARSHALL to Rose ORGAN; W.A. SHRIVER’s house struck by lightening; Dan STEVENSON found dead in Alma twp.; death of little Grace CONANT

March 21, 1884: Marriage of Bell WARNER to Cyrus ROSE; death of Scott FISH; S. HURLBUT to W. LAWILL residence for $400 (since sold for $800); FENSTER resigns as marshal and Geo. BEAVER is appointed; Marriage of Charles SEE to Alice GRAMLEY

April 4, 1884: Stock law adopted; Salem creamery started; great riot in Cincinnati - over 200 killed

April 11, 1884: J.P. STEEN comes up from Louisiana and decides to locate (He is now County Treasurer); J.B. LEWIS of Patoka Enterprise visits Kinmundy seeking the nomination for circuit clerk. The Kinmundy Register is revived (but soon expires.)

May 2, 1884: Stella JONES and Lelia JENKINS killed by a cyclone at Jamestown, Ohio, brought here for burial

May 9, 1884: Thos. KILLIE loses $1000 in cash by fire at Farina; marriage of Zarda FROST to Anna WHITE; considerable talk about a new railroad

May 30, 1884: Death of Ella BUTLER

June 27, 1884: G. HARLAN bought Third street property of N. GRAVES, $700; J. B. GARNER returned from Patoka opened shop opposite bank; advertisers blowing about 14 pounds of sugar for $1

July 4, 1884: Death of L.L. HOLLISTER

July 11, 1884: Account of Grand celebration; A.M. YOUNG declines the Republican Nomination for Circuit Clerk

July 25, 1884: First oats marketed by Wm. MORRIS

August 25, 1884: Tin wedding of Wm. CHAPMAN and wife; death of Chalmer SWEENEY

August 29, 1884: A 12 lb. Boy at Thos. HARGRAVES’; Sale of residence by C. ALLMON to H. SIMPSON $700

Sept. 5, 1884: Sale of livery stable H. SIMPSON to T. SMITH

Sept. 12, 1884: Death of E.A. RAY

Sept. 19, 1884: Death of Alice BEAVER

Sept. 26, 1884: James HARLAN left for St. Lawrence, Dakota; L.D. CLINGENPEEL for Kansas; pagoda put up in public square; marriage of Addie COLEMAN to Chas. MELROSE; firm of SONGER & SMITH dissolved; first campfire of Marion County Soldiers’ Association

Oct. 10, 1884: SMITH & DEIWERT bought grocery of Geo. ELDER; marriage of Bettie BROWN to W. TULLY, Mrs. JACKSON to Rev. HALEY; marriage of Theo. GARRETT to Icy DOOLEN; death of Nancy PORTER

Oct. 31, 1884: Frank CHALFANT killed by the cars; death of Nellie DISS and O.H. HAYWOOD; boy at S.J. ALLEN’s; H. SIMPSON sells residence to his mother for $800 and leaves for Kansas

Nov. 7, 1884: Wedding of Homer STEVENSON and Clara HUMPHREY, election of Grover CLEVELAND

Nov. 14, 1884: Wedding of Sumner DILLON to Nellie SNELLING; Frank KAGY to Della COCKRELL; barns of Ben DOOLEN and Mack ROBB destroyed by fire

Nov. 21, 1884: Marriage of Seph BARBEE to Kate ALDERSON; Chas. METZGER to Lucy STOCK; Henry RYA to Mecia POTTICARY; residence of E. HAMMERS destroyed by fire

March 7, 1912:

- Samuel BLAIR: The subject of this sketch was born in Hagarstown, Maryland, May 2, 1833 and died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J.E. CRAIG, Feb. 29, 1912, at the age of 78 years, 7 months, and 27 days. The deceased was of a large family of children and grew to manhood in the town of his birth. In 1855 he was married to Christiana SONDERS; to this union was born 8 children, 4 of whom died in infancy and 1 daughter Catherine at the age of 17 years. In 1862 in came to Illinois and located at Dixon, some 2 years later he came to Marion county and lived on a farm near Alma. In 1881 he moved to Kinmundy twp., where his wife died March 6, 1885. In 1886 he married Mrs. Ellen MILLER, who died in 1892. Since that time he has made his home with his daughters Mrs. James E. PERRY, Jr., and Mrs. J.E. CRAIG. He leaves to mourn their loss, 2 daughters, 1 son Albert, 7 grandchildren, and a host of friends. The funeral services were held at the residence of J.E. CRAIG on Friday March 1, conducted by Rev. A.D. HOCKER and interment made in Wilson Cemetery.

- John HENSLEY left last Thursday for St. Charles, where he has a good position in a tailor shop and leader of the band.

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 1, 1885: Wedding of Noah ROBNETT to Lillie CHALFANT, A. HUMPHREY to Fodie EAGAN

Jan. 22, 1885: Death of Scott ABBOTT

Feb. 12, 1885: Coal Mining meeting, J.C. HAWORTH, chairman, Express Scribe Sec.

Feb. 19, 1885: Charles DENNIS, of Effingham, locates here. A son at the home of Chas. NEAVILL

Feb. 26, 1885: Coal Company organized, capital $12,000; Prof. WARNER resigned as principal of school; and F.A. PRUETT is appointed; marriage of James FISH to Anna HUMPHREY; death of Susan PRUETT, aged 66.

March 12, 1885: C. RYAN sowing oats

March 26, 1885: Wm. CHAPMAN buys BOOTHES residence for $850

April 2, 1885: Death of George ABBOTT aged 31; death of Dudley MAXON is railroad accident.

April 9, 1885: Suicide of James ARNOLD of Foster twp.

April 23, 1885: City election returns, no license, and Mr. DONOVAN downs the scribe in a friendly tussle for mayor; contract for sinking the coal shaft let to Zard FROST, marriage of Robt. ROBB to Hanna SWIFT

May 21, 1885: Death of J.B. REYNOLDS, aged 51

May 28, 1885: Death of J.B. KING, aged 64; marriage of P.A. SHRIVER to Ada KNISELEY; Ed CALDWELL to Ella SWEENEY

June 11, 1885: ROHRBOUGH’s mill destroyed by fire

June 18, 1885: terrible cyclone south of town, a slight earthquake

July 23, 1885: Wedding of George RAY to E.B. VANARNUM; death of General GRANT

Aug. 6, 1885: Death of Dan LOVELL, aged 45

Aug. 13, 1885: Tom WILLIAMS appointed postmaster, vice J.F. DONOVAN

Sept. 3, 1885: Death of Mrs. Mary ANGLIN, aged 73; birth of Grant MELROSE at Grayville

Sept. 10, 1885: Marriage of A. WEARIN to Mary ROBB; Chas. NEIL to Nannie SHRIVER; George McGUIRE to Lizzie PARRILL

Oct. 1, 1885: Organization of the Kinmundy Fair Association; marriage of Myron DEIWERT to Mattie SIMPSON; John GAHAN to Annie HOLLISTER

Oct. 15, 1885: C. ROHRBOUGH located at Larned, Kansas; Owen GEORGE to Dovey GRAY; Oscar CHANCE to Margaret HOLT

Oct. 29, 1885: Chas. WEST buys Hereford Park of his father for $12,000

Nov. 5, 1885:Wedding of Gray WILLIAMS to Maggie HANNA

Nov. 12, 1885: Marriage of Charles DENNIS to Allie PORTER

Nov. 19, 1885: Wedding of Stella FORSHEE to Chas. GAMMON in Texas; Death of A.C. REYNOLDS and Thos. A. HENDRICKS; Rosedale farm sold by EICHATIZ to HACKER for $14,500

Dec. 3, 1885: Sale by John ROTAN of the half section farm of HOYT to ELLSWORTH who goes to Chicago, forges a deed and then raises $1500 on a mortgage; marriage of R.P. MCBRYDE to Mary FOX

Jan. 7, 1886: Will JONES to Lizzie MORRIS; Death of Will NEEPER aged 45; Sarah YOUNG aged 85

Jan. 28, 1886: The Express is to be sued for $50,000 but compromises on a five line local

Feb. 11, 1886: Meeting of Royal Templars Grand Council in Kinmundy

Feb. 18, 1886: Engine House at Coal Mine destroyed by fire; Mollie REYNOLDS to Wm. HYATT

March 4, 1886: Wm. GERARD to Lillie READNOUR

March 25, 1886: Alex MILLICAN to Mattie HART; the diamond drill strikes coal

April 8, 1886: Charles HERRICK to Allie EAGAN

April 22, 1886: 58 against license in the city election

May 6, 1886: Death of Captain SPROUSE

May 29, 1886: Fred KOETCHEAU found dead in bed; marriage of Vernal PRUETT to Emma BROWN; birth of Gail SMITH

June 3, 1886: Coal is reached and there is great rejoicing

June 17, 1886: Earl CROSSETT to Anna CAWREY

July 8, 1886: Birth of Ruby LAWSON

July 22, 1886: Death of James MAHAN

Aug. 5, 1886: Death of Mrs. Lou DAVIS, age 26; Samuel J. TILDEN

Sept. 2, 1886: Marion FISER to Lizzie CRAIG; death of Mrs. Andrew NEEPER aged 50 years; marriage of Seth FOSTER to Annie FENSTER

Sept. 9, 1886: Death of William LAWWILL, aged 54; John LENHART, Sr. 81; marriage of Isaac SHARP to Ida VAN ARNUM

Sept. 16, 1886: Harry WILSON and George WEST, two twelve year olds decamp for Colorado but are captured at Alma

Sept. 23, 1886: Death of Mrs. Joshua DAVIS age 66

Oct. 7, 1886: Annual conference of the M.E. Church South

Oct. 14, 1886: Death of John A. HUMPHREY age 59

Oct. 28, 1886: Marriage of Dan GUNN to Lutie BAKER

Nov. 4, 1886: Death of Philander CURTIS

Nov. 11, 1886: Marriage of Lee BARBEE to Eva GARNER; Mattie ALLEN to G. DEMOREST

Dec. 17, 1886: Birth of Laura CAMERER; Death of Mrs. BUDLONG

Dec. 31, 1886: Death of Athaline EAGAN age 73, and John A. LOGAN; marriage of Mabel HOLLISTER to John MOYER

March 14, 1912:

- EAGAN-PEARSON: Sunday, March 10, 1912 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. PEARSON, west of this city, occurred the marriage of their daughter, Miss Margaret Ann to Mr. Henry Harrison EAGAN, the Rev. E.M. JOHNSON performing the ceremony. The wedding march was played by Miss Lodema CONANT. A few relatives and friends witnessed the ceremony. The bride and groom are both prominent and highly respected young people, she being an efficient and successful school teacher, while the groom is a prosperous farmer in Foster twp. They left Sunday night for Chicago to spend a few days. Their many friends extend congratulations.

- E.G. FORD of Alma was in this city Tuesday on business

- W. Henry ALLEN dead: The citizens of Kinmundy were greatly surprised Wed. morning when the word was circulated the W. Henry ALLEN had been found dead at Dad’s Hotel. He was found by the Proprietor, H.H. CRAYCROFT, lying in the door of the toilet, and had been absent from the hotel office not to exceed 10 minutes. Mr. ALLEN arrived in this city form the soldier’s home at Quincy about 5 or 6 weeks ago to visit relatives and remain till he was ready to return to the home. Coroner FOSTER has been notified and upon his arrival a jury will be selected and an inquest held.

- Ada P. REYNOLDS was born near Dupont, Ind., May 12, 1843, being the eldest daughter in a family of 10 children. Her parents were Abner C. and Nancy H. REYNOLDS. On Sept. 17, 1866, he was united in marriage to Nixon THOMAS, with whom she shared the joys and sorrows of this life for more than 45 years. To this union was born 5 children, 2 of whom died in infancy and one at the age of 4 years. In early life she was converted and united with the M.E. Church, where she retained her membership thru life, being at the time of her death affiliated with the Mapleton M.E. Church of Indianapolis, Ind. Before her health failed she was actively identified with various departments of church and Sunday School work and her whole life showed that her one purpose was to run her race as the Master would have her run and she run it well. She constantly sought opportunity for doing good to her neighbor and as an instance of her kindly ministrations to those who were needs and in sorrow, it is known that she prepared for burial 48 persons. In her home life she was a beautiful example. Always considerate of the feelings and needs of her companion and children and always doing something for their happiness and comfort. As a mother she was lovable and self-sacrificing to a fault. Her going away has left a place in the heart and lives of her children that cannot be filled - a wound that only God’s grace can heal. She is survived by her husband Nixon THOMAS; 2 children, Mrs. Will J. CONDREY and Frank L. THOMAS; 2 grandchildren, Nellie G. and Frank Ll, Thomas Jr., all of Indianapolis, Ind.; and 2 brothers, John M. REYNOLDS, Jeffersonville, Ind., and Will D. REYNOLDS, Kinmundy, Ill., and a host of other relatives and friends. Her whole life was build on Jesus Christ in whom she trusted implicitly and to whom she gave her love and service. Her life was clean and white throughout to its close; she fought a good fight, she finished the course, she kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for her a crown of righteousness. She passed peacefully away on the morning of March 1, 1912 at 9 o’clock and on March 4, she was laid to rest in the beautiful Crown Hill cemetery, Indianapolis.

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 7, 1887: Four below zero; Death of Jane SWEENEY age 81, John BOUGHERS aged 54, and Noble CRAIG, aged 31

Jan. 14, 1887: The town is written in rhyme by the Express

Jan. 20, 1887: Grant POOL killed by John PHELPS in Alma

Feb. 4, 1887: Wedding of Frank REEDER to Jennie MAHON

Feb. 11, 1887: Death of Bridget RABBITT, aged 65; David KAGY, 55; Wils WHITE found dead in his field near Alma, aged 62

Feb. 18, 1887: Isaac GEORGE to Mahala COLE

Feb. 25, 1887: Frank EAGAN to Sarah JACKSON; lots of Building & Loan talk

March 4, 1887: Residence of Bob ROBB destroyed by fire, marriage of Will INGRAM to Nora GRAY, death of Hattie KING aged 28

March 11, 1887: Austin HANKS killed in Meacham twp. by Charles ROBERTS

March 18, 1887: Death of W.L. PHILLIPS

March 25, 1887: The Express is edited by John DONOVAN while LAWSON is in Kansas

April 1, 1887: Snow a foot thick; death of Eliza HEATON 79, marriage of Percy BALKE to Laura SAPP

April 8, 1887: Death of Sarah PRUETT aged 39

May 6, 1887: Death of P.K. JOHNSON of Salem

May 13, 1887: John PATHAEL to Gussie BROWN, death of Mrs. BOOS.

June 10, 1887: Frank STEVENSON killed by lightening near Salem

June 24, 1887: Will DILLON killed by the cars

July 1, 1887: Death of Belle SMITH aged 27

July 8, 1887: Death of John GUNN aged 45

July 22, 1887: Death of Mrs. Leonard aged 63, Dr. FORSHEE has his collar bone broken from being thrown from his buggy

July 29, 1887: GILLMORE engages in the boot and shoe business

Aug. 12, 1887: A meeting is held in the Express office and steps taken to organize a Building and Loan Association, BLAKESLEE’s recently purchased Commercial House struck by lightening

Aug. 19, 1887: Silver wedding of Thos. NEAVILL and wife Meacham

Sept. 9, 1887: Death of Joe GLAZEBROOK aged 54

Sept. 16, 1887: W.D. REYNOLDS to Nellie TYNER

Sept. 23, 1887: James ARNOLD to Emma HOLT

Oct. 7, 1887: Marriage of Levi ROHRBOUGH to Sallie KING

Oct. 21, 1887: Gustin EAGAN to Jennie DAMEY

Nov. 4, 1887: Ed SWEENEY to Mina CALDWELL; 45^th anniversary of the marriage of Uncle Jack JONES

Nov. 25, 1887: Death of Mrs. John DOOLEN age 38

Dec. 2, 1887: Sale of Rosedale farm by HACKER to Rodgers Foundry $12,000; ALLEN Brothers buys CHALFANT’s shop; Golden wedding of John CUNNINGHAM and wife, Salem

March 21, 1912:

- Another Veteran Gone: W.H. ALLEN, 4^th son of John and Margaret ALLEN was born in Tuscarawus county, Ohio on Oct. 8, 1844 and died in this city on the 13^th of March 1912, aged 67 years, 5 months, and 5 days. He was married to Hannah A. KNISELEY Aug. 4, 1870, and to this union, 9 children were born, 5 with the mother surviving. Only one son, C.C. ALLEN of Chicago was able to be present at the funeral. He leaves 2 brothers, S.J. and A.M. ALLEN of this city and 1 sister, Mrs. Mattie DEMOREST of Carthage, Mo. The deceased enlisted in the Union Army from this county, Aug. 13, 1862, Company K, 111 Illinois Infantry, regiment commanded by James S. MARTIN. In October of that year his regiment proceeded to Cairo, then to Columbus, Ky. For a short season they did garrison duty, but in October ‘63 they joined SHERMAN and followed him to the sea, and were in many of the important battles of that campaign. After JOHNSON’s surrender they marched to Washington, D.C., and were mustered out of service on Jun 7, 1865. In the battle at Fort McAlister, Ga., he was severely wounded and carried the effect of that wound until the close of life, and possibly, at the last, gave his life because of it. Mr. ALLEN was by profession a teacher, and taught for 35 years in the public school, being at one time Assistant Superintendent of school in Henry County, and was an officer in the Soldier’s Home at Quincy. He was a member of the G.A.R., also of Fort Donelson, Reg. 9, and Chaplain of the Ill. Dept. U.V.U. He was at one time a member of the Methodist Church in this city and Sunday school secretary, from which church the funeral services were held on last Friday conducted by Rev. WOODLEY, assisted by Rev. RITCHEY, under the auspices of the G.A.R. and interment made in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Charles W. SONGER, son of Frederick and Jane HELM-SONGER, was born in Xenia twp. July 24, 1831, he being the first baby boy born in that township. The greater part of his life was spent on a farm near Xenia. As a well known farmer and representative citizen, his life was one of usefulness and honor. We will remember him as a man of energy, pleasantness, and above all we see in the wearing of his life the golden threads of charity of charity and courtesy that charity that suffereth long and is kind, that courtesy which is "to do and say, the kindest thing in the kindest way" to everyone in his own immediate family and also to everyone with whom he came in contact. Mr. SONGER was married to Miss Evelyn LEWIS in 1851, and to this union, 12 children were born, 6 children and his wife preceded him to the other world. He has been a member of the Methodist Church for 50 years and lived these years a consistent Christian in every respect. His life was one of simplicity always serving the Maser he loved. Later years Mr. SONGER has made his home with his children. After an illness of some time, the venerable gentleman surrounded by loving daughters and sons-in-law, passed to his eternal rest and final reward. "God’s finger touched him and he slept." We will ever cherish his memory. His remains were taken to Xenia where the funeral services were held in the Methodist Church Tuesday morning conducted by one of his closest friends, Rev. BOYER, and interment made in Xenia Camp Ground Cemetery where all the family rest. Besides 6 children, he leaves several grandchildren, 3 brothers, Wm. F., Dr. S.T. SONGER of Ashland, Oregon, A.W. SONGER of Kinmundy; 2 sisters, Mrs. Sarah YOUNG of Iuka, and Miss M.A. SONGER of Kinmundy, and a host of friends and relatives who have been made better by having associated with this good man. 

- J.T. ARNOLD, county treasurer of this county, ordered this paper sent to his brother, E.M. ARNOLD at Shawnee, Okla. For a year. Mr. ARNOLD wishes him to have the best paper in the county, so sends him the Express.

- The barn of the farm of John DAVIS, 4 miles southeast of town, was struck by lightning and burned Tuesday morning during the hail, wind and rainstorm. The stock in the barn was all saved, but feed and all other contents were destroyed. This is a severe loss to the owner and he was fortunate to get out the stock.

- Advertisement: Opera House, Kinmundy, Ill., Wed. Eve., March 20^th. Bert J. ROYCE presents The FUN SHOW, of the Season The Mischief Maker, A Comedy in Three Acts with Miss Evelyn May. Feature Specialities Between the Acts. All our own scenery including our own original snow storm. Tickets now selling at TYNERS - Prices 50, 35, 25 cents. Telephone in and have seats reserved, they will be held till night of show. This is a guaranteed attraction. Satisfaction guaranteed. Money refunded after the last act if you are not pleased with the show.

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 6, 1888: The cash system adopted by the Express and reduced to $1 a year; 20^th anniversary of TYNER and wife; wedding of Ed GRAY to Mary FENSTER; J.E. CRAIG to Emma BAIR; daughter at home of Chas. NEIL; death of Samuel JONES, aged 49; residence of James ROGERS destroyed by fire in Meacham

Jan. 27, 1888: Death of Fred Wetter

Feb. 3, 1888: Death of Fred BALKE

Feb. 10, 1888: Marriage of Kate ELDER to Walter LARKIN; china wedding of Abraham and Margaret SONGER; Kinmundy 20 years hence

Feb. 24, 1888: Mt. Vernon cyclone

March 9, 1888: Birth of Lincoln REEDER; Death of Lillie BROWN and Sallie MILLER

March 16, 1888: Mose SWIFT to Lizzie GREEN; death of Wm. WALKINGTON aged 80

March 30, 1888: Murder of Alfred KRUTSINGER

April 6, 1888: John MOORE to Sadie SCHERMERHORN

April 27, 1888: Death of Samuel FUQUA age 93

May 4, 1888: CHAPMAN promoted to Tuscola

June 15, 1888: Lou DAVIS to Josie RICHARDSON; Hicks Circle is organized

July 27, 1888: Residence of Kate FROST destroyed by fire

Aug. 3, 1888: Death of Frank SMITH age 27; also Edith POPE COOLEY; 30^th wedding anniversary of Frank HOWELL and wife

Aug. 17, 1888: Douglas WILLIAMS to Nellie EAGAN

Aug. 31, 1888: C.H. DEFORD to Fannie INGRAM; Death of Johnnie WHITAKER

Sept. 7, 1888: Grand success of Kinmundy Fair and Old Settlers reunion

Oct. 26, 1888: Wedding of Emma SHRIVER to Dr. EBNOTHER

Nov. 9, 1888: Election of HARRISON and MORTON

Nov. 23, 1888: Residence and office of Dr. DENNIS destroyed by fire; safe in SONGER’S mill robbed; 4 year old daughter of Alex STOCK burned to death

Nov. 30, 1888: Death of Eliza SMITH age 81; sale of 280 acres in Meacham by J.B. McBRYDE to his son, Joseph, for $6000

Dec. 28, 1888: Marriage of Melvin CHANDLER to Allie ARNOLD; James PERRY to Laura BAIR; Death of Martha ROBB, age 83

March 28, 1912:

- William J. TWEED died at his home in Salem Sunday morning after a long and painful illness of Bright’s Disease. He had been in failing health for several months and some weeks ago he rendered his resignation as deputy county clerk. He had been very prominent in republican politics for many years and served four years as deputy sherif under A.C. Barnes. The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock.

- Farina: Cards have been received here announcing the marriage of Martin F. RAUCHMAN and Miss Helen MORIS of Viscount, Canada

- Freda Mildred, only daughter of S.E. and Katie HOWELL died at her home in Meacham, Monday night March 25, 1912, age 6 years, 9 months, and 20 days. She had been sick for many weeks and was under the care of an interested and skilled physician, who when he saw communications asked for help. But she has gone and another cord binds the family to the heavenly home. The funeral services were held from the Christian church last Wednesday morning at 7 o’clock conducted by Rev. E.M. JOHNSON of Mattoon and interment made in Evergreen Cem.

- Township Elections:

Meacham:

For Supervisor: E.S. HOWELL, Dem. - 106; Vard COCKRELL, Soc. - 67

For Town Clerk: J.A. PAYNE, Dem. - 101; T.J. WADE, Soc. - 67

For Assessor: D.E. WILKINSON, Dem. - 101; Ira COX, Soc. - 64

For Collector: Pearl SMITH, Dem. - 110; Chas. ALLEN, Soc. - 60

For Highway Commissioner: Harry THOMPSON - 103; Ellis BUTTS, Soc. - 66

For Justices of the Peace: S.H. GRAHAM, Dem. - 102; A.H. PARRILL, Dem.-101; W.S. JACKSON, Soc.-65; G.S. LACEY, Soc.-64

For Constables: A.J. BOSTON, Dem. - 105; Roy WILKINSON, Dem. - 104; Roy MISELBROOK, Soc. - 60; James KAGY, Soc. - 62

For School Trustee: A.C. BRANSON, Dem. - 104; Ed HENNING, Soc. - 63

Omega:

For Supervisor: C.W. HADDEN, Dem. - 109; J.M. MULVANEY, Rep. - 31

For Town Clerk: J.M. SCHOOLEY, Dem. - 75; Lee SOUTHWARD, Rep. - 67

For Assessor: L.L. BEARD, Dem. - 79; P.G. BOSTON, Rep. - 61

For Collector: N.B. POTTER, Dem. - 83; Henry JAY, Rep. - 55

For Highway Commissioner: S. CANTRELL, Dem.- 85; Wm. MORROW, Rep.- 56

For School Trustee: W.A. KNISELEY, Dem. - 94; C.L. MILLICAN, Rep. - 44

Foster:

For Supervisor: J.R. NICHOLS, Dem. - 88; Elmer BASSETT, Rep. - 47

For Town Clerk: Morton PRITCHETT, Dem. - 82; W.C. LOWE, Rep. - 57

For Assessor: Alvin CHANDLER, Dem. - 92; H.W. BECKEMEYER, Rep. - 30

For Collector: Claude FOSTER, Dem. - 84; F.C. LAWRENCE, Rep. - 52

For Highway Commissioner: F.C. NICHOLS, Dem. - 90; Ira BENDER, Rep. - 43

For School Trustee: Geo. FRIZZELL, Dem.- 79; J.J. ARNOLD, Rep. - 48

For Constable: S.H. REESE, Rep. - 48

Alma:

For Town Clerk: Jesse GRIFFIN, Dem. - 121; Thos. DAY, Rep. - 47

For Assessor: Aaron HUTCHINSON, Dem. - 109; T.B. McCARTAN, Rep. - 58

For Collector: Van MUNDWILER, Dem. - 105; Oscar SMITH, Rep. - 63

For Highway Commissioner: John KOLB, Dem. - 92; Wm. GRIFFIN, Rep. - 67

For Justice of the Peace: Frank HEISTAND, Dem. - 109; Claude RAINEY, Rep. - 53

For School Trustee: Joe E. KAGY, Dem. 108; J.H. SHAFFER, Rep. - 55

Kinmundy:

For Town Clerk: D.C. BEAVER, Dem. - 299

For Assessor: C.B. SMITH, Dem. - 257; Henry LUX, Rep. - 142

For Collector: Dolph HAMMERS, Dem. - 243; A.C. DUNLAP, Rep. - 166

For Highway Commissioner: W.J. McCULLEY, Dem. - 175; Henry JACKSON, Rep. - 216

For School Trustee: Henry SEE, Jr. - Dem. - 229; R.S. ROWAN, Rep. - 156

Shall this town continue to be anti-saloon territory? Yes - 212; No - 147

For Building Hard Roads -111; Against - 284

- A 10 lb. Boy was born to Mr. and Mrs. Chas. NOLLER of Centralia, March 28. The mother was formerly Miss Gertie BELL of this city.

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 4, 1889: Twin daughters born to Sam and Ida McCLOUD; death of little James WILSON, aged 4 years

Feb. 15, 1889: John BRENNON leg crushed by train; Will REYNOLDS kindled a fire with gasoline and went to bed for a month; Constable Geo. BEAVER thrown from his horse; death of Nancy REYNOLDS, age 69

Feb. 22, 1889: Death of James COLEMAN age 30

March 1, 1889: The palatial residence of James GRAY destroyed by fire

March 8, 1889: Postmaster WILLIAMS gently choked by Preacher BELL

March 15, 1889: Death of Hon. R.W. TOWNSEND

April 5, 1889: Marriage of Wm. WILEY to Emma SIMMONDS; Death of Mrs. CORBIN and Mrs. STEEN; Richard F. LAWSON appointed postmaster; Death of Elizabeth Doolen, age 71

April 26, 1889: Twin boys born to Chas. NEAVILLS and wife

May 10, 1889: Death of Uncle Hiram WILLIAMS age 70; Death of Justus FRENCH age 75

June 7, 1889: Birth of Charley LARKIN

June 14, 1889: Marriage of Will LOVELL to Linnie CAWREY

June 24, 1889: Mary MARLOW killed by lightening in Omega

July 19, 1889: Death of James STEWART age 48

July 26, 1889: Death of Matilda SPROUSE age 61

Aug. 30, 1889: Modern Woodmen established in Kinmundy; Will FISH and wife hurt in railroad accident near Streator

Sept. 6, 1889: Death of James ROGERS of Meacham

Sept. 20, 1889: Death of Catherine WETTER age 67

Sept. 27, 1889: Another grand success of the Kinmundy fair; Myron DEIWERT sells the Corner Grocery to CHAPMAN

Oct. 4, 1889: Death of W.C. REEDER; Ed COLEMAN to Sarah STEADMAN

Oct. 11, 1889: Grace HEATON to F.A. TOWNSEND

Nov. 4, 1889: Death of Collin MUCHINSON

Nov. 15, 1889: Double wedding of Noble and Clement NEEPER to Polly and Maggie CONANT; Several burglaries about town; Death of Edward SMITH age 24

Nov. 22, 1889: Death of Sarah SPYKER age 71; Martin GRAMLEY to Maggie HUMPHREY

Dec. 6, 1889: Death of Jeff DAVIS; Adam WESTFALL age 93; Dr. CAMERER buys SHELTONS residence for $1,060

Dec. 20, 1889: MAMOTH illustrated edition of the Express

April 11, 1912:

- Granville GAMMON vs. Nancy Jane GAMMON divorce petition printed. (* - partial article)

- Advertisement: Gem Theatre. The Gem Theatre is now under new management and we will strive to please all by giving Good Shows Every Night. 3000 Feet of High Class Pictures. Illustrated - Special Music. We invite you to come and get your money’s worth. Big Shows every night, beginning promptly at 7:30. Admission 5 and 10 cents. Gem Theatre.

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 3, 1890: A very mild Christmas; marriage of Hugh MEEKS to Kate BEAVER; Mrs. Lou GLAZEBROOK to Doctor HENKIE; Robbery of Mrs. Giles SONGER by tramp and capture of thieves; collision near the coal mine

Jan. 10, 1890: A heavy sleet cyclone in Northern Illinois

Jan. 17, 1890: Every body has the grip

Jan. 24, 1890: Mose WAINSCOTT to Lucy NORRIS; Death of Samuel TELFORD aged 60 years; George MARTIN to Sarah FOSTER

Jan. 31, 1890: Lincoln REEDER is rescued from the cistern by his pa

Feb. 7, 1890: Delbert EAGAN to Alice WILSON; Steve WILSON to Anna BLACKBURN; 50^th wedding anniversary of John GUNN and wife; George JONES killed in the Odin Coal mine; David SNAVELY of Omega, blew out the gas at Springfield and was brought home for burial

Feb. 14, 1890: Great band robbery at Salem; Death of C.C. FORD; Death of Lizzie JONES aged 18

Feb. 28, 1890: Death of Edward PURSELL aged 53

March 8, 1890: The Express buys the double brick building in which it was located of Catherine MOORE for $2, 250; A.M. YOUNG buys the REEDER stock of J.C. HAWORTH

March 14, 1890: 6^th Anniversary of E.G. MENDENHALL and wife; Death of Denton GRAY aged 59; Stephen SANDHOFER aged 80; William WOOTEN to Ella CLAY; Olney swept by cyclone

April 4, 1890: RYAN’S Livery stable owned by Mike BRENNER destroyed by fire; Archie BRENNER destroyed by fire; Archie BREWER to Lizzie SMITH; Golden wedding of Uncle Billy and Aunt Katy GRAY

April 18, 1890: Marriage of F.A. PRUETT to Anna WHITAKER

April 25, 1890: Death of D.T. MOORE aged 38; Marriage of Roy GREEN to Hattie ROBB

May 2, 1890: Ben McFARLAND moves his family to Flora; George WHITBECK to Effingham; Marriage of Ed HENSLEY to Kate BEAVER

May 8, 1890: Death of Joseph CRAIG age 71; Residence of William ORGAN destroyed by fire

May 16, 1890: Marriage of C.P. CLINE to Maggie CRAIG; and William WILSON to Helen CRAIG

May 23, 1890: Death from paralysis of Capt. George BIDDULPH at Aurora

May 30, 1890: Will BUTLER to Abbie TUCKER

June 6, 1890: Marriage of Etta SEE to Will CROOKER in Alma

June 20, 1890: Marriage of Lizzie SIMPSON to Charles PARRILL; Government street letter box established in Kinmundy; An attempt to assassinate Doctor MATTHEWS at Mason; Organization of the Southern Illinois Immigration Association

June 27, 1890: Big Strike on the Illinois Central; Will JONES runs his hand thru a self binder; Marriage of Ida PHILLIPS to Will WHEAT

July 4, 1890: Steam heat fruit evaporator Ed MENDENHALL, MOTCH, and NEIL engage in the hay business; overground work of Kinmundy coal mine destroyed by fire

July 11, 1890: The first trip of the Illinois Central fast train

July 18, 1890: Marriage of Jennie SMITH to Doctor McDONALD at Hammond, La.; Wm. GRUBER killed by lightning; and Ben CRAIG loses lot of stock the same way

July 25, 1890: SONGER’s Mill puts in new rollers

Aug. 1, 1890: birth of Hazel BALKE

Aug. 8, 1890: The great Farina fire

Aug. 22, 1890: Death of Capt. TRUNKEY

Aug. 29, 1890: A son is born to Lou DAVIS and wife; Death of little Hugh WILSON; Death of Caroline GUNN aged 70 years

Sept. 5, 1890: Wedding of Charlie DOOLEN to Della ROBB; Will EAGAN to Lizzie WILSON; Sanford SCHOOLEY to Addie MARLOW, Joe BARBEE to Mollie HAYNIE

Sept. 12, 1890: Funeral of Archie BREWER; Marriage of Frankie SEE to Doctor HOLSON

Sept. 16, 1890: China wedding of Ras JONES and wife; Lizzie VALLOW to Will BATES; Mollie HAWORTH to Robert MURRY

Oct. 3, 1890: J.M. WYCKOFF locates in Kinmundy; Grace GUNN to Egbert ROBINSON; Henry Jefferson ALLEN to Mary WAINSCOTT; Death of L.B. FRENCH age 78; Richard DARDEN to Minnie LOWE

Oct. 17, 1890: Mary ELDER to Harry MANUEL; J.N. EMBSER accidentally puts a bullet thru his hand; Harry PERRY killed in railroad wreck

Oct. 31, 1890: A turkey goes thru NEIL’s plate glass window

Nov. 7, 1890: James COCKRELL is elected to the legislature; Rosco KLINE is married to Fannie HARRELL

Nov. 28, 1890: Suicide of Anna JONES; Death of Arthur SKILLING

Dec. 12, 1890: Quite a row between Kinmundy and Farina

April 18, 1912:

- William Dolph REYNOLDS, son of Abner and Nancy Lee REYNOLDS, was born in Paris, Ind. July 27, 1866, and died at his home in Kinmundy, Illinois, April 12, 1912, aged 45 years, 9 months, and 15 days, passing peacefully away at 3:45 in the afternoon. He was one of 8 children, only one of whom remains, a brother, whose residence is unknown to the family. He was united in marriage with Miss Nellie TYNER on Sept. 11, 1887, and to this union one son was born, Amy D. who died 5 years ago on April 7. Kinmundy was his home all during his married life, and he was much attached to the city and the people; and while his business called him away much of the time, yet this fact turned to his home city when ever business was over. He was a good man and had friends everywhere whose sympathy and prayers go out to the widow in her sad bereavement. The funeral service was held in the M.E. church Sunday morning at 8 o’clock conducted by R.D. WOODLEY and a large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends were in attendance. After the funeral the remains were conveyed to the I.C. depot and shipped on No. 24 to Mason for burial and besides the relatives and friends, Clipper Lodge No. 413 Knights of Pythias was represented by 20 members at the burial service. Mr. REYNOLDS was a charter member of this Lodge and was a very active member and a great advocate of its teachings. Fred NAUMER of Altamont acting as Prelate had charge of the K. of P. burial service which was very impressive.

- John W. MILLER, son of George and Catherine MILLER was born at Washington, Ind. on the 16^th day of Aug. 1846, and died at his home in Kinmundy, Ill., at 5 o’clock in the afternoon on the 14^th day of April 1912, aged 65 years, 7 months, and 28 days. Mr. MILLER was one of 6 children, 5 sons, and 1 daughter. One brother and sister survives him. He was married to Miss Mary PARSON On Sept. 3, 1873 at Pendleton, Ind., and they immediately came to the city of Kinmundy and have continuously resided here since that time. To them were born 3 children, one dying: Frank MILLER and Miss Bertha MILLER, both of Casey, Ill., remain to comfort the stricken mother. He was a solider in the Civil War, member of the 136 Illinois Volunteers entering the service when quite young, on the 31^st day, 1864, and was honorably discharged on the 22^nd day of October the same year. He has been a member of Kinmundy Lodge No. 398, A.F. & A.M. for nearly forty years. Mr. MILLER has been a resident of Kinmundy for almost forty years and has been a splendid citizen, an excellent neighbor, a kind and loving husband and father, a friend to all. The funeral services were held from the family home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. R. D. WOODLEY, under the auspices of A.F. & A.M. Lodge No. 398, and Hicks Post No. 255, G.A.R., and interment made in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Ben GARRETT, wife and daughter, E.S. HOWELL and wife, S.E. HOWELL and wife, A.J. HOWELL and wife, S.E. HOWELL, wife and baby were visitors at J.F. HOWELL’s Sunday.

- On the 7^th day of April at the home of Mrs. Della WILKINSON occurred the marriage of her daughter Miss Maude to Mr. Thomas F. McCARRY, of Richview, Ill., Rev. A.D. HOCKER, officiating. Her many friends extend best wishes for their future happiness.

- On Saturday, April 6, 1912, Mrs. Mattie HOWELL and O.T. TOMLINSON were united in marriage in St. Louis. The bride was raised in this city and is a sister of T.M. SMITH and her many friends extend congratulations. The groom is a St. Louis man and has been with the Plant Seed Co. for 16 years. They will reside at 3922 Olive St. Louis.

- Bert LAYTON of 802 N. 9^th St., Springfield, and Miss Bernice BAYLIS, of this city, were married at Springfield Saturday afternoon by Probate Judge JENKINS. The bride is a daughter of J.A. BAYLISS and wife near this city and her many young friends extend congratulations. The groom is a cook in a restaurant; they will make their home at 802 N. 9^th St., Springfield.

- J.M. GRAY, Theo MILLER, O.W. GEORGE, Lawrence STEVENS and wives, Glen BRASEL, Earl GEORGE, and Earl DISS attended Presbytery at Loogootee last Wednesday.

- A Brief History of Kinmundy by Leon HANNA: It now becomes the pleasure of the Senior Class of 1912 to have the privilege of presenting to the public an authentic history of our native city. The History of Kinmundy will take us back to the early pioneer life amid the picturesque scene of primeval forests and verdant undulating prairies. The life history of the ordinary individual finds its multitude of interested readers, but the thought of having the pleasure of perusing the history of the city in which we share alike as well wishers for its continued growth and prosperity is far superior. The stimulus of the early of Kinmundy was the survey and construction work on the Chicago branch of the Illinois Central railroad. In 1856 the depot was erected and the station named Kinmundy, this being the only point in the United States bearing a like cognomen. There is some dispute about the origin of the name, and several theories are advanced, but what seems to us the most authentic and authorative is the following extract taken from the Illinois Central Employees’ magazine. "Kinmundy was named after the birthplace of Wm. FURGURSON, a native of Scotland, who visited Illinois in 1856, and who was a member of the firm of Robert Benson & Co., at that time the Illinois Central R.R. Co’s agents in London."  In April 1857, Kinmundy was laid out east of the railroad by W.T. SPROUSE, WATSON and BARNARD and contained 15 blocks of various forms and sizes. The first addition was platted by Isaac EAGAN in 1858. The first store was built and owned by W.B. EAGAN, and was erected in 1854 on the site of the present residence of Mrs. Sarah PARRILL. It was a 2 story building, the first floor being a grocery store and also the first post office in Kinmundy, while the upper story served as the residence of the store keeper. In 1858 he and MONGER erected a store room near what is known as the ELDER corner, the spot now occupied by C.B. ROHRBOUGH’s clothing store.  The first church was a Cumberland Presbyterian, erected in 1858, Rev. Wm. FINLEY being the first pastor. Four or five years later the M.E. Church was built. The M.E. South in 1869, Roman Catholic in 1870, Christian in 1902, and the Baptist in 1904-5.  The first saw and grist mill was built by W.T. SPROUSE in 1858. He used it for some time, then sold it and it was moved away. In 1864 he erected another mill, then in 1868 SONGER Bros. built the present brick mill, making the brick themselves. The "Kinmundy Mill" was built in 1877 by Robert McCREARY, who sold it to Capt. ROHRBOUGH in 1878, who operated it until it was destroyed by fire in 1885. The city has now in successful operation a large three story grist mill, with full roller system, capacity of one hundred barrels per day, with local and foreign reputation for first rate flour.  The first blacksmith was Henry EAGAN, first physician and druggist Dr. W.W. ELLIOT, and the first lawyer Wm. HUBBARD.  The first school building erected in this vicinity was constructed of round, unhewed logs, on or near the spot known as the John CARMAN property; but the first school built since the town was founded, was located in 1858, between the residences of Chas. FRENCH and Mrs. R.F. PORTER, the lot being donated by D.P. SNELLING. The first teacher was James Parker SMITH.  The town of Kinmundy was incorporated as a city and given a charter of its own in 1876. The first officers of this new born city were: Mayor W.R. HUBBARD; Treasurer, C.H. MUNGER; and City Clerk, W.M. HUMBLE.  It would seem that the press has had the most varied experience of any business in Kinmundy. The Kinmundy Telegram is credited with being the first newspaper established in 1867 by Col. J.W. FULLER. During the campaign of 1868, the name was changed to Kinmundy Democrat. After the election it was again changed to Kinmundy Independent. At frequent intervals it has changed names and owners. In 1875 it was the Kinmundy Bulletin, then the Register. The Reform Leader, and on Nov. 8, 1883 what is now The Express was originated by Richard F. LAWSON. In 1898 it came into the hands of Mr. F.O. GRISSOM from Patoka, and in May 1900 was merged into the Express.  The banking business was begun here sometime early in 1867 by Messrs. McCREARY and MONGER who continued banking and brokerage for about 2 years. On Nov. 1, 1899 the Merchant’s and Mechanic’s Bank was established with a capital of $45,000; later it became the Haymond State Bank. The First National Bank came into existence in 1902 with Mr. Calendar ROHRBOUGH as the first president. In 1906, Mr. Henry WARREN & Sons started a private bank, but it has since changed into the Farmer’s & Merchant’s Bank and has a capital stock of $50,000 with individual liabilities amounting to $1,000,000.  The completion of the C. & E.I. railroad in 1895 gave an impetus to business and several large brick buildings were erected, but unfortunately nearly one half of the business part of the town was destroyed by fire in 1904. It was soon rebuilt but not long after a large part was swept away by a second fire, and now, as all has been rebuilt again, we are determined to take all precaution against a third disaster.  The citizens of Kinmundy are proud, not vain. We are proud of our city on account of its past achievement, present prosperity and future prospects. We are proud of our location, being in the northeast portion of Marion county and by logical deduction we can prove to our own satisfaction that Kinmundy is the garden spot of the world. The soil in this vicinity is very productive and in raising wheat, corn, oats -in fact all the cereal, our portion is the peer of any other. Our attitude is the greatest of any in this part of the state being located on the Apex of the great watershed between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. These natural advantages make Kinmundy the most picturesque place in "Egypt".  In the governmental affairs of both county and state, Kinmundy has sent her representatives. She has furnished the following county officers: Associate Judge, D.P. SNELLING; County Judges, Tillman RACER and C.H. HOLT; County treasurers: J.L. SMITH, J.P. STEEN, W.W. NEIL, and J.T. ARNOLD.  Among the visitors to Kinmundy are some very important personages. There have been some noted temperance lecturers, among whom were Gov. P. ST. JOHN, of Kansas; Geo. W. PAINE or the silver tongued orator of Kentucky; and Colonel John SOBIESKI, who were entertained at Capt. ROHRBOUGH’s home.  The buildings and edifices of our city are not so grand and magnificent as some, but are modern and substantial. Our water supply is unlimited, the veins are strong and contain pure and healthy water. Kinmundy is illuminated by electricity and has an excellent fire department.  This pleasant and growing city has over a thousand inhabitants comprising some of the best men and women in the world. We say best because of charity without manifestations, beneficence without display, and sympathy without flourish; our people cannot be surpassed anywhere. Kinmundy commands the trade of a large section of country and her business men are very energetic and enterprising.  But with all its abilities for business Kinmundy is not surpassed in facilities for modern education in minds and morals. We have a new school building erected in 1910, which has all the modern improvements and in which and taught all the common branches, with an up-to-date High school with ambitious pupils and competent teachers.  Kinmundy has, as we have heretofore mentioned, six large, imposing churches, representing as many denominations and in the stillness of a Sabbath evening can be heard harmonious chimes of the many pealing bells. "Here’s to Kinmundy; Place of my birth; May she ever remain; ‘Mong the fairest on earth."

- Abbreviated History:

Jan. 2, 1891: Wedding of George MORGAN to Louise MERBOTH; Vard COCKRELL to Della KNISELEY; Gold medal won by Lotta NEIL; Death of John NELMS, aged 53

Jan. 9, 1891: Wedding of Ellis WOLFE to Dudie NELMS

Jan. 16, 1891: George BARBEE to Emma BALDWIN

Jan. 23, 1891: Death of Wesly BLURTON, age 41

Feb. 6, 1891: Sallie DARDEN to O. DORSEY; Chas. DISS to Etta HANNA; SWEENEY & CALDWELL buy the Corner Grocery of CHAPMAN; Death of Robert ARMSTRONG, age 80; Death of Louise WOOTEN, age 66; J.W. TULL & Son buy the hardware and harness business of J.C. HAWORTH

Feb. 27, 1891: The firm of WILSON & DAVIS is announced; death of the aged wife and young son of James K. CRAIG

March 4, 1891: Death of Al TOMLINSON of Alma, aged 56; John WILSON buys the opera house block for $8,500; Jonathan WALLS comes to establish a brick yard in Kinmundy; A daughter is born to John PATHAEL and wife; the election of PALMER to the senate.

April 3, 1891: Charles HERRICK is killed by the cars

April 10, 1891: A small cyclone unroofs John LENHARTS’ barn; Death of the wife of J.L. McHATTON, age 39

April 24, 1891: John METZGER to Lillie KRUTSINGER; Dan GUN elected Mayor; 26 against license; John WILSON is elected Supervisor for the third time.

May 1, 1891: Wedding of Lulu BLAKESLEE to Harry FINKE; Death of Sarelda BRADLEY aged 64; Death of Grandma SWIFT, age 95; John G. HANSON killed by falling timbers at Waverly, Miss

May 22, 1891: Chester STEVENS killed by the cars at Tonti

May 27, 1891: A son is announced at the home of Charles PARRILL and wife in Evanston; Train wrecked at Odin; Pat QUICK killed

June 5, 1891: 13^th anniversary at Kinmundy Lodge 1091; Knights of Honor big time

June 10, 1891: George SPIECE to Sallie POOL

June 26, 1891: Death of Anderson McGEE, aged 63; Wedding of Thomas WADE to Gertrude DILLON

July: Death of William FISH, aged 48; Marriage of John STEEN to Johanna EAGAN

July 10, 1891: Full account of our grand annual celebration; Steam Heat Evaporator doubles her capacity; Death of Oscar RUSH by accident; PRUETT’s fruit evaporator begins business

July 17, 1891: Birth of Gene Stoker LAWSON; Mrs. DOOLEN burned to death in Texas; Death of little Ruby ROBNETT

July 24, 1891: Death of Eugene NELMS

July 31, 1891: Death of Elizabeth WEST, age 72; also that of Simon VAN ARNUM.

Aug. 7, 1891: Marriage of Ed BARGH to Nellie HOLBROOK; birth of fifth son to Charles and Alice FRENCH; Death of John H. ROSE, age 53

Sept. 11, 1891: Death of Cynthia SMITH, aged 80

Sept. 18, 1891: Mayflower Chapter Order Eastern Star organized in Kinmundy; Death of Simon COCKRELL age 43; store of WILSON & DAVIS burglarized

Sept. 25, 1891: W.H. MAHON to Celia BEHR; Luther DAVIS to Margaret MORRIS; Death of Fred HARLAN, aged 17

Oct. 3, 1891: The worst earthquake ever felt in this section; Linzie MARLOW to Hallie SCHOOLEY; a son is born to Chas. and Nannie NEIL

Oct. 22, 1891: Jerome EMBSER to Jessie SPIESE; Death of Edith BASS, aged 26; Edward FENDER to Mary CLAY; Death of Asenath STOKLEY, aged 86

Nov. 6, 1891: The marriage of Charles GIFFIN to Gertie EMERY

Nov. 20, 1891: Death of Lester WHITE of Alma; Josie ROCKHOLD to Fred ROCKWELL

Nov. 27, 1891: Ed DOOLEN to Myrtle HEADLEY; Jennie WILLIAMS to Chas. SULLENS; Death of Rev. M.R. JONES

Dec. 4, 1891: Marriage of Sarah GLAZEBROOK to John MOTT; a daughter born to Chas. and John MOTT; a daughter born to Chas. and Allie DENNIS, and a son to Levi and Sallie ROHRBOUGH

Dec. 25, 1891: Death of Martha HEISTAND, aged 38.

April 25, 1912:

- Mike PURTILL, for many years section foreman for the Illinois Central at Farina, died at his home in Chicago last Wednesday, aged 82 years. The body accompanied by his children and grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends, arrived in this city Saturday afternoon at 2:50 on I.C. train No. 1. The remains were conveyed to the Catholic cemetery, where a prayer service was held, the funeral service being held in Chicago. Mr. PURTILL was quite well known to the Kinmundy people many years ago and was a man highly respected by everybody. He was employed by the I.C. company for 40 years and was retired on a pension. He left Farina some 10 or 12 years ago and has made his home with his children since that time.

- Commencement will be this week. The class this year consists of Clarence CONANT, Leon HANNA, Josephine O’BRIEN, Elsie ROHRBOUGH, Vera BARGH, Ruth DOOLEN, Lauretta SCOTT, Hugh SPENCER. (* - partial article)

- Sunday, April 21, being the 80^th birthday of Mrs. D.R. HANNA, her children planned a surprise. About the noon hour all gathered at the old home with well filled baskets and spent the day rejoicing that they were again permitted to be with their mother, grandmother and friend. Those present were W.G. WILLIAMS and family, who reside at the old home, Chas. DISS and family, C.W. and H.L. HANNA and families, Ed BRASEL and wife, A.D. WILLIAMS and family, of Centralia; Mrs. T.W. WILLIAMS, C.T. NICHOLS and family; C.L. PRESTON and family, Ardery PHELPS and wife, Gilbert and Miss Josephine WILLIAMS, of Salem. Those present besides the family were Rev. K. JONES of Centralia; Mrs. Henry WARREN and daughter, Mrs. John BRAZEL and Mis Iva WARREN. There were 52 present in all. Mrs. HANNA received scores of post cards from those who could not be present sending love and best wishes. May there be many more such happy birthday.

- Elder School: A surprise party was given Will SHAFFER Saturday night in honor of his birthday and a pleasant time enjoyed by all.

- The Senior Play at GRAY’s Opera House; Wednesday, May 1^st, Cupid at Vassar. A College Comedy in Four Acts. Cast of Characters; Myron ROSS, Clarence CONANT, Leon HANNA, Hugh SPENCER, Lauretta SCOTT, Elsie ROHRBOUGH, Josephine O’BRIEN, Ruby HULTS, Ruth DOOLEN, Vera BARGH, Bess BRYAN, Dorothy DOOLEN, Marcelline WOLFE. Doors Open 7:30. Curtain 8:30. Admission 25 cents. Children 12 years of age 15 cents. (* - partial article)

- Advertisement: J.D. CAMERER, Physician and Surgeon, Kin