The year 2007 is a milestone year for Danbury. In June, we'll be celebrating our 125th anniversary.
To help in the celebration, Jane Dimig has given us permission to reprint The History of Danbury by Viola Dimig. We'll be printing, hopefully, enough to get through the whole book by the end of the year. No matter what, we will print until we've printed the whole book. We're also putting the book on the Review website; eventually the entire book will be there for you to search and to read.
If anyone out there has been compiling the history since the mid 70's and want them added on, or if someone wants to compile the last 30 years, let us know, and we'll print them, too.
Before we begin, I want to clarify the dates. The preface states the book was read for Danbury's anniversary. While the first people arrived in 1865, the town was not incorporated until 1882. Therefore, our 125th is celebrated this year.
Here is the beginning of the book. Next week we'll get more into the actual history.
This history was written in commemoration of DanburyÕs 100th Anniversary, year 1965, and of the Dan Thomas Family who were the founders of our town. Written by Mrs. Henry Dimig of Danbury, Iowa.
Books and Newspapers from which The History of Danbury were obtained: History of Woodbury County and Plymouth Counties, Atlas of Ida County, Mapleton Milestones, Monona County Album, Past and Present, Woodbury County History, The Palimpsest (Spirit Lake Massacre), Maple Valley Scoop, Criterion, Danbury Review, Mapleton Press, Sioux City Eagle, Sioux City Journal, Anthon Herald, Smithland Correspondence, Castana Times.
There were many who gave information voluntarily concerning DanburyÕs early history. Joseph Welte, the oldest living resident in Danbury, Iowa 1962 when this history was first started, and Fourth Freedom Thomas, grandson of Dan Thomas of Princeton, Idaho, were extremely helpful. The interviews were copied in most part as written in various books and papers to show the mannerisms of speech in our area in early history, also the History of Maple Township. The story of the spirit Lake Massacre was taken from Roster of Iowa Soldiers which I presumed would be more correct as Iowa soldiers investigated these killings and buried the dead.
I am sure there are errors in this history as there are in all histories, and probably some will disagree with statements, dates, etc., but I have written it according to my best knowledge and information received from others. It is better to have some form of history rather than none at all even though there are discrepancies. Thanks to all who helped with information so I could compile this book of memories.
Mrs. Henry Dimig
Drawings by Pamela J. Duecker.
Information in this history was gathered and written during the years 1962 and 1970, one hundred years or more after the arrival of the first permanent citizens of Danbury, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Thomas and their family labored valiantly and suffered many hardships to establish the town in which we live. Danbury would not have existed today had it not been for the generous nature of Dan Thomas. To this family we are grateful and extend our thanks. This history is dedicated to the twelve living grandchildren of Dan and Mary Ann Thomas. (Banney Chapman Manney, Earl T. Denison, Chalice Thomas McIntosh, Ben Lincoln Thomas, Grant Bowser Thomas, Fourth Freedom Thomas, Winifred Horn Mason, Lyda Horn Elwill Botts, Grace Horn Hagen, Vesta Thomas Batley, Pauline Thomas Price, and William Bond Thomas.)
In 1963 I took advantage of an opportunity and visited Danbury for the first time. It was indeed a surprise to find such a lovely little town; so neat, so clean and so prosperous looking. Then I was really thrilled to think that my grandfather had played such an important part in the history of this place. We motored through the various streets, really looking the town over, and while thusly occupied I got the idea that maybe there was some person still living within these limits that would accidentally have known some of my ancestors. I stopped the car and trailer that I was driving and started on foot to find a place where someone could direct me to my goal.
I approached a small business across from the Wilkinson Block and told the proprietor what I had in mind. He directed me to Mr. Joe Welte and gave me instructions to find his home. I drove out the indicated street, but overshot my directions, and drove on north to the cemetery gate where I turned around. Ever since that day I have wished that I had gone into the cemetery and tried to find some of the graves that mean so much to me now. The cemetery was so well kept that I am sure I would not have had much trouble locating graves that I wanted to find. However, I did not stop there as there were a crew of men working at the entrance of the cemetery and I did not want to disturb their work.
The thrills and pleasures in looking over this much heard of place (I had been told many yarns and facts about Danbury all through my early life), were not to end with the finding of the town and the cemetery. I had no further trouble finding the gentleman to whom I had been referred, and I soon came face to face with Mr. Welte. I really had not been prepared to meet such an interesting and friendly person.
I introduced myself, and do you know he remembered not only my Grandfather Thomas, but the names of all five of his children? He remembered and talked of my mother's folks, John Bowsers, and of the Wilkinsons who had played such an important part in my mother's girlhood life. This should have and could have gone on far into the afternoon, but my wife and I had my wife's mother with us and it had been a hard and hot trip for her that day as she was a woman of eighty years. I thought it best that I should cut my joys short and continue on our way before she became too tired.
A correspondent has told me of the new businesses starting in the town and of the school and religious interests to be found there. Adding all this together, I can see nothing but growth in the future and added economic strength. Should a grand centennial celebration materialize for Danbury, I would be very happy to be informed of the date and would try to participate in some way. I would surely like to attend.
I wish to thank those who are interested in finding the facts of the founding of Danbury and for their thinking of me. I promise to give these facts if at all possible for me to obtain them.
Fourth F. Thomas
1965
The first persons to live and explore in Woodbury County were the Indians and the French fur traders. The fur traders had come from Canada to trap, buy and trade furs with the Indians. The Frenchmen had hunted and trapped up and down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers since 1800. The American Fur Co. had organized in St. Louis, and they hired trappers, hunters and explorers to buy furs from the Indians as well as trap and hunt for the company. The Frenchmen had become good friends of the Indians, and many of them had married Indian women. By 1819 steamboats were sent up the Mississippi-Missouri Rivers with trappers aboard. The first boat to go up the river in 1819 was named the Thunder Canoe by the Indians, because it belched black smoke from its stack. The first steamboat to actually pass the length of Woodbury County before it was organized was the Yellowstone of St. Louis in 1831. The Antelope, another steamship carried as many as 100 fur traders and trappers up the river every Fall. These men were left off the boat in various places along the banks of the Missouri River to make contact with the Indians and try to trade or buy furs from them. Some traders and trappers went as far north as Cheyenne Island by steamer, and then by mackinaw, a flat bottomed boat to the headwaters of the Missouri River. The men working for the fur company would come down the river as far as Woodbury County in the spring with flat boats loaded with furs, and a steamer would be sent up to Woodbury County or Sioux City to pick them up. All then would return to St. Louis until the next Fall. These traders came to know this area well, and when this land was opened up for settlement, they were the first to file for land and settle in this area.
This is the family history of Dan Thomas as printed in the History of Danbury. The names in bold and slightly larger are Dan and Mary Ann's children. Dan and Mary Ann's grandchildren are indented and in bold underneath the Thomas' child.
Daniel Thomas was born on December 12, 1822, in Freeport, IL. He died on October 3, 1911, in Princeton, ID. He is buried at Potlatch, ID.
Mary Ann Smith was born on November 4, 1838, in Portage County, OH. She died on March 6, 1921 in Moscow, ID. She is buried at Moscow, ID.
Dan and Mary Ann were divorced in November, 1881. She married a second time to David Chapman who was born on December 14, 1830. He died on September 14, 1917. He is buried at Moscow, ID.
Lovina - Born on April 13, 1857 in Freeport, IL. She married Melvin Chapman in Danbury. Melvin was born on April 21, 1855 in Illinois. He came to Iowa in 1858. Lovina came to Iowa in 1864. They are buried at Port Orchard, WA.
Danny, born on September 9, 1876
Gertrude (Mrs. J.W. Schulen), born in 1878
Alice (Mrs. D.B. Wainscott), born in 1881
Nettie (Mrs. Henry Keyes), born in 1889
Bannie (Mrs. W.E. Ruhl in 1911 and Mrs. Wallace Manney in 1940). She was born in 1892.
Gail (Mrs. George Karb), born in 1878. She died in 1971.
Ida - Born on December 28, 1858 in Freeport, IL. She married Scott Denison in 1874. Scott was born on February 7, 1852. He died in 1930. They are buried at Moscow, ID.
Susie (Mrs. Henry Richmond), born in 1876.
Harvey, born in 1877.
Frank, born in 1883.
Tracey, born in 1888.
Earl, born in 1894.
Abel J. - Born in December 1861. Died 1 year, 10 months later in September, 1863.
Benjamin Franklin - Born on July 26, 1863 in Freeport, IL. Died in 1942. He married Lanie Isabelle Bowser. She was born on September 3, 1864 at Blanchardville, WI.
Chalis (Mrs. Clinton McIntosh), Born in 1893.
Ben, born in 1896.
Grant, born in 1899.
Fourth, born in 1902.
Glen, born in 1905.
Alice - Born on Febreuary 1, 1866, a twin. She weighed 2 1/2 lbs. at birth. Her twin died and is buried at Danbury, possibly on their farm as there were no cemeteries in 1866. Alice married Alonzo Horn who was born on June 19, 1850. They are buried at Rosalia, WA.
Robert, born in 1886.
Winnifred (Mrs. Ed Mason), born in 1888.
Walter, born in 1893.
Lydabelle (Mrs. Albert Elwell), born in 1895.
Grace (Mrs. Richard Hagen), born in 1902.
A daughter was born and died on February 1, 1868 in Danbury. She was buried on the farm.
Charley - Born on January 7, 1871, in Danbury, IA. He married Dora Bond who was born on January 5, 1871. They are buried at Twin Falls, ID.
Vesta (Mrs. Merlin Bagley), born in 1896.
Reginald, born in 1898.
Pauline (Mrs. Vauhn Price), born in 1904.
William Bond, born in 1914.
President Thomas Jefferson planned the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804. The group of men picked were to explore the area along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, exploring each to their source, and then on west to the Pacific Ocean. The number of men picked to make this trip varied from time to time. When the expedition began, there were 2 captains, 4 sergeants, 3 interpreters, 22 privates, 9 Frenchmen, and a negro slave belonging to Capt. Clark, the leader of the expedition. The group traveled on 3 large river boats powered by a combination of power and sail which in one day could travel a distance of 12 to 20 miles. The Frenchmen were brought along for advice regarding the terrain and rivers and to converse with the Indians as they knew the Indians well. All rivers and streams running into the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers had been named by the Frenchmen preceding the expedition, but the members of the expedition named all the mountains and rivers after they moved out of the river valleys to the West. Sgt. Floyd, one of the members of the party, became ill when the party reached the point on the Missouri River that is Sioux City today. The expedition members camped on the bluffs of the Missouri River the eve of August 20, 1804. Sgt. Floyd died that night. He was buried on the bluff along the river just 1/2 mile below a small river which they named the Floyd River in honor of Sgt. Floyd. The Floyd Monument today marks the approximate place of his burial. He was buried with war honors, and his death was lamented by all. A cedar post was fixed at the head of his grave, and the inscription, Sgt. Floyd died here Aug. 20, 1804" was inscribed on it. This cedar post became a landmark for travelers. During a flood in 1857 a part of the bluff on which he was buried washed away. His remains were then reburied on the same bluff, but farther back from the banks of the river. In 1895 his remains were placed in urns and reburied again. The site was then marked with a marble slab. It was decided to build a monument in 1900 on this site. The cornerstones were laid in 1900, and the spire was completed in 1901. The expedition group traveled on after Sgt. Floyd's burial to the Dakotas, Montana, and then followed the Columbia River to its mouth. Part of this trip was made on horseback. Indians along the way were helpful and friendly. The return trip was made in 1806.
The Mormons had been denied the rights of their religious beliefs in eastern United States, so in 1809 they migrated to Missouri and Nauvoo, Illinois. They were the first white settlers to come to Illinois. Soon after settling at Nauvoo, they published a religious paper, The Times and Seasons. Hiram and Joseph Smith, leaders of the religious group, became known as the Prophet and President of the Latter Day Saints, church of the Mormons. The Smith brothers' home in Nauvoo was named by the Indians and means City Beautiful. The Smith brothers later moved to Carthage, Illinois, where more of the Latter Day Saints had settled. Citizens of other faiths who had also settled at Carthage objected to the paper published by the Smith brothers, and soon trouble erupted and the two men were jailed. The Mormons had made a beautiful city of Nauvoo which culminated with the building of a beautiful temple in 1846. It was proclaimed to be the largest building west of the Alleghenies. The building cost nearly $1 million and was built with much hardship and sacrifice of the members of the church,. The temple was never completely finished as their leader was killed. Angry mobs of irate citizens of other faiths attacked the Mormons and forced them to leave their homes. More than 15,000 Mormons abandoned their homes and fled into the wilderness with the hope of seeking new homes, possibly in the desert on land no one else would want. Those who did not own wagons and horses loaded carts with belongings and pulled the carts themselves over the western plains. Brigham Young was chosen as a new leader. The Mormons crossed Iowa from the east to Kanesville, now known as Council Bluffs, early in the winter of 1846. Brigham Young wanted to keep on moving west even though winter was upon them. Many of the group wanted to camp at Kanesville over winter and continue on their journey west in the spring. A number of the Mormons continued on the trek with Brigham Young, but they endured severe hardship, and many lost their lives. When they reached land they wanted to call home, Salt Lake City, Utah, there were only 143 men, 3 women and 2 children left in the group. They said thousands had fallen by the wayside. Most of the Mormons that did not make the journey during the winter moved on west in the spring. A few families remained in Kanesville, Iowa, and a colony of Mormons started there. Two years after the Mormons left Nauvoo, Illinois, their beautiful temple was mobbed and destroyed. The Mormon migration across Iowa opened up all Iowa for settlement, and it also established a route across the United States to the West. Greater steamboat traffic was created up and down the Missouri River to Council Bluffs, and many wagons were outfitted there for families to make the trip to western U.S.A. The Mormons had opened the way for settlement of the west.
Sioux City became a settlement when two of its first citizens came to file for land for homesteading, 1847. The first to file was Theophile Bruguiere, a French-Canadian and a fur trader. Land for which he filed was located where the Big Sioux River emptied into the Missouri River. Theophile had become well acquainted with this land due to his many trips up and down the river, and he always thought when he retired from the fur trading business he would homestead land in this area. Theophile was born in Assumption, Canada, in 1813. He grew up to be a strong and daring lad, not knowing the meaning of fear. He was a woodsman, hunter and trapper. His parents' wish was for him to have a good education, but he lost interest in everything after his sweetheart died of Cholera. In November, 1835, when 22 years old, he left for the frontier. He traveled on water and foot down the Missouri River to St. Louis, making the trip in 15 days. He secured work with the American Fur Co. After he rested two days, he returned to the north to Fort Pierre in Dakota Territory. This time he traveled by horseback, and another employee accompanied him. He was to buy and trade furs with the Indians. He had may exciting experiences. Shortly after arriving in Indian Territory, he was suddenly surrounded with Indians who prodded him in the back with arrows. Theophile had no fear and began whacking away with the butt of his gun, stretching one of the warriors out on the ground. He then spoke to the others in Indian language which he had mastered will, telling them to let him alone or he would kill the whole group. The Indian liked courageous people, so all shook hands, and from that time forward he was a friend of the Indian. He was made an honorary Sioux warrior. Theophile became a good friend of War Eagle, Chief of the Sioux during the 14 years he worked for the American Fur Co., and after he settled on his land, War Eagle and many of his warriors with their families settled there also. There were about 1,000 persons, Indians and trappers living in teepees and shacks, on Theophile's land when the county was organized in 1852. Theophile Bruguiere married two of War Eagle's daughters, Blazing Cloud and Dawn, marrying Indian fashion. He wanted a third daughter also for a wife, but he lost her to Traversie, another fur trader. Blazing Cloud bore him seven children, Baptiste, Charles, Eugene, Andrew, Rose Ann, Mary and Selina. Dawn bore him six children, Joseph, John, William, Samuel, Julia and Victoria. These children were all baptized Catholic. Some were baptized by Father Christian Hoecken, one of the first missionaries to come to this area in 1850. These children had both English and Indian names. All could speak good English, and they were all given good educations if they wanted one. One son attended Ann Arbor, and another a college in St. Louis. War Eagle died in 1851, and his wish was to be buried high on the bluff overlooking the Missouri River Valley. Blazing Cloud and Dawn died in 1857 and 1858 respectively, and they, too, were buried on the high bluff beside their father. Theophile married again, this time marrying a Canadian woman, Victoria Brunette. He then purchased 400 acres in Section 10, Lakeport Township, Salix, Iowa, and he then became a country gentleman. He returned to his Catholic faith. Most of his children returned to the Indian way of life after his remarriage. Brugiere died in 1895, and he was buried in the Salix Catholic Cemetery, but his remains were moved to the high bluff beside his first two wives in 1927.
William Thompson "Old Bill Thompson" also came in 1847. He came up the Missouri River from Morgan County, Illinois, in a small boat, after the death of his wife in Illinois. He landed at the point known as Floyd Bluff, and he built a shack there and filed for a claim. The Sioux City settlement actually began on this spot which was known as Thompson Town, and the Thompson home became a trading post. Thompson roughly staked off and planned a town at this site. He thought it the ideal spot for a town because it was close to the river, and the Missouri River was the only access to this area in 1847. A brother of Bill Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Thompson, and another couple, Mr. and Mrs. Towsley came the next year. County organization and the first election in Woodbury County was held in the Thompson cabin. His site never became a town site as he was reluctant to sell when asked, and the land was also thought to be too hilly for a settlement.
The first permanent settler to come to Sgt. Bluff was J.D. Crockwell. The town was named in memory of Sgt. Floyd who had died in the Lewis and Clark Expedition and was buried on a bluff near the town site. Sgt. Bluff actually grew faster than the Sioux City settlement, and it was Woodbury County's first county seat.
Smithland was an all-white settlement that started, too, before the county was organized. Three Mormans, William White, Curtis Lamb, and J. Sumner came up the Missouri-Little Sioux rivers from Kanesville (Council Bluffs) in 1851 on a hunting expedition. The men were attracted to this area as the steep hills offered protection from the cold winters and there was plenty of timber and spring water. They were the first to file claims and build cabins. The Little Sioux River also offered plenty of hunting and trapping. In 1852 Orrin and Edwin Smith and John Hurley from Kanesville also came up the river hunting and found the three men mentioned previously living fairly comfortably in this wilderness. They were also awestruck by the beauty of the valley as the leaves of the trees were in full color of reds, bronze, etc. They offered Sumner $100 in gold for two of his claims, and Sumner sold out to them. Orrin Smith returned to Kanesville and sold one of the claims to Eli Lee, a brother-in-law, and the Smiths filed for more land. They moved their families by wagon from Kanesville in February 1853. These first settlers started the settlement which later was known as Smithland. It was named for the Smith brothers. This small settlement had the first school in Woodbury County. It was a log cabin school and built by a "log-raising." The first stage lines in Northwest Iowa went through Smithland.
Iowa became a state in 1846, and every few years more counties were organized. An act of Congress provided that a county, Woodbury, be established on March 1, 1853. This territory had been called Wahkaw in 1852 by the Indians, but the name was changed to Woodbury when three men were chosen to organize the county. The men appointed were Thomas L. Griffey, Ira Perdue and Charles Wolcott. The area of the county was 876 square miles or 561,000 acres. The first county seat was Floyds Bluff as Thompson had built a cabin there. There was just one township, Sgt. Bluff Township, and it extended over the entire county. Thomas Griffey was named organizing sheriff by the Legislature. He was a judge. He was born in 1827 in Campbell County, Kentucky, the son of William and Elizabeth Griffey. He was of Welsh extraction. He left home when 16 and located at Kanesville in 1850. The county was organized in 1852, and Thomas Griffey ordered the first election of county officers to be held in 1853. There were no township officers to be elected in that first election as there was just one township and the county officers transacted the business for the whole county. Thomas Griffey held many positions throughout his life as he had a sound mind and used good judgment. He farmed a few years after coming to Sioux City and secured several thousand acres of land. In 1899 he returned to Sioux City and practiced the law profession. He was well posted on all great issues confronting the nation. Men in the four settlements of the county - Sioux City, Floyd Bluff or Thompson Town, Sergeant Bluff, and Smithland were eligible to vote. Men in the early days were proud of their right to vote. They would travel long distances to enjoy that privilege. Five men from Smithland Settlement were eligible to vote in that first election. They started for the William Thompson cabin, the voting place, the day before the election. They walked and carried their rifles on their backs. They followed an Indian trail along the Missouri bottom under the bluffs. They reached August Traversie's cabin at the day's end. August Traversie was a French-Canadian fur trader, but in 1853 he was a farmer. He was married Indian style and had Indian squaws as wives. The Smithland men received true Canadian hospitality from Traversie. The squaws in the Traversie home prepared a supper of stew of dried elk seasoned with garlic, corn cake and good coffee. In due time, all retired, but the Smithland men Orrin and Edwin Smith, Eli Lee, Curtis Lamb, and William White slept fitfully as the fleas disturbed them. In the morning, after having breakfast with the Traversies, they went on to Thompson's house to vote. They were welcomed there, and all were introduced in the Western way, Corn juice, pipes and tobacco. There were 17 votes cast in that first election. Following are the men who voted and what became of them.
A few settlers came as early as 1854. There were still many Indians in this area as the Little Sioux, Maple and Soldier Rivers and their valleys were favorite hunting, fishing and trapping grounds for them. Groups of Sioux Indians and often the Winnebagoes came in the Fall and set up camp in their favorite camping spots along the rivers. The few settlers that did come usually chose adjoining land so as to help and protect one another. Cherokee, Correctionville, and Smithland all had forts were settlers could go if there were Indian uprisings. Woodbury County was organized in 1852, and from 1852 to August of 1854 there was just one township in the county, Sergeant Bluff Township. When a township was formed, officers were elected, a postmaster was appointed, and a post office established. There were no regular stage routes in Woodbury County until 1857. The nearest point of mail delivery until 1857 was Council Bluffs. Some settler going there for supplies would bring the mail back to the settlers. The first stage route established in Woodbury County extended from Panora in Guthrie County to Sioux City in Woodbury County. This passenger and mail stage stopped at the William Wilsey home (Peter Lamp Farm) at Old Mapleton as he was the first settler to settle in Maple Township, Monona County. The stage also stopped at Smithland, Iowa. In August of 1854 a second township, Little Sioux was formed. The northern half of Woodbury County was then Sergeant Bluff Township and the southern half of the county was Little Sioux Township. On March 2, 1857, two more townships were formed, Sioux City and Correctionville Townships. Our area which had been in Little Sioux Township, now became Correctionville Township. Little was done to form more townships during the Civil War period 1860-1865 as the influx of new settlers dropped drastically because of the war. William N. Seaman, an early settler from this area, was instrumental in getting Liston Township formed. The settlers wanted more townships so that they did not have to travel so far in times of election or to send or receive mail. The formation of Liston Township became authentic in November of 1868. Morgan Township was later carved from the original Liston Township. By 1884, there were 24 townships in Woodbury County. In 1854 the first settlers, Joseph Edwards family and Morris Leach Jones, a brother of Mrs. Joseph Edwards arrived in what is now Liston Township, but then Little Sioux Township. They had to come by wagon train to Smithland, Iowa, from Marathon, Portland County, New York. Mrs. Hannah Edwards and Morris Jones were from a family of 11, and their parents were Thomas and Hannah Adams Jones. Hannah Jones was a direct descendant of Samuel Adams. Joseph Edwards and Morris Leach Jones entered land in Liston Township near the Woodbury-Ida County line east of Danbury. Morris L. Jones and Joseph Edwards built the first log cabin in the township. In 1857 M.L. Jones married Louise Smith, and he and his wife left this area. He later returned and became a businessman in Smithland.
Nathaniel Edwards, possibly a brother of Joseph Edwards, settled on land in Ida County in 1857, land later known as Hedrick Farm. He accumulated a large amount of land but lost it later. He was the first assessor in Ida County and voted in the first election. His wife died after the birth of his sixth child. He married a second time to Anna Brady Kier who was a sister of William Brady, one of the first blacksmiths in Danbury. Anna came here with a small son, William Keir after divorcing her husband Frank Kier at Prairie Du Cnien, Wisconsin. Anna worked as housekeeper for Nathaniel Edwards and afterwards married him. They had 3 children, Jay, Robert and Mable (Mrs. Herman Hansen) who all came to Danbury. The Edwards boys at one time ran a livery stable. Jay ran the first Standard Gas wagon which was pulled with horses. Bob was town cop after he moved his family off the farm. George L. Crane was the second settler in Liston Township. Charley A. Cobb settled on land just west of present Danbury in 1854. He married Lovina Smith, born October 22, 1840, in Lake Co., Illinois. She came to Northwest Iowa with her parents Orrin B. and Cecilia (Bragg) Smith. Orrin B. Smith and his brother, Edwin Smith founded the town of Smithland, and the town was named after the Smith brothers. The Smiths moved to Smithland from Council Bluffs. Charley Cobb and Lovina Smith were the first couple married in Smithland. Charley Cobb sold his farm to Dan Thomas in Freeport, Illinois, in 1857. Thomas Davis came in 1854 from Illinois with the idea of speculating in land. He homesteaded the Herman Sohm 80 north of the town limits and bought several parcels of land in this area. He filed for some of it in 1854, and his patents were granted on June 23, 1857, and December 10, 1859. He arrived in Smithland early in the winter of 1856-57. It was during that winter that the Indians that were camped on the Little Sioux at Smithland gave this area quite a scare. There were 22 men in the settlement at Smithland, and Thomas Davis was one of them. He was a member of the Frontier Guards, an organization formed to protect the early settlers. The Indians at Smithland were starving due to heavy snows early in the winter, so they began to steal livestock to butcher and corn from the fields. The men at Smithland decided to ask the Indians to move as they feared trouble with them, and Thomas Davis was one of the men that went to the Indian camp and asked them to move up the river. These same Indians committed several atrocities while going up the Little Sioux, then committed the Spirit Lake massacres, and they were responsible for the uprising in southern Minnesota. Thomas Davis sold land to Dan Thomas also in 1857 in Illinois, and more was sold to him later. Jesse Winterringer and wife, Hannah entered a homestead on June 19, 1857 (Lee farm) and the patent was granted on September 10, 1860. Mr. Winterringer lost his land to Matthew Clark, a trustee in Little Sioux Township in 1861 over a $392 debt. The land was then sold in front of the post office in Sioux City to Patrick Robb. Ethan and Mary Allen bought the farm from Robb in 1877. Peter Moore and wife Anna Clingenpeel were the owners of the Lee farm when it was purchased by James Lee on May 17, 1890 for $1,800. Lewis Koker and his Cherokee Indian wife came here from Illinois, and they squatted on land east of Danbury where Koker Creek empties into the Maple River. Lewis would not file for land. He said if he farmed and lived on it, it should belong to him. Koker Creek was named for this family. Lot Koker, the oldest son, married Zella Chapman. Lot opened the first blacksmith shop in Danbury after Dan Thomas built the store. Lot had children: Myrtle who married Della Case, Minnie (Mrs. Frank Smith), James married Julia Shoemaker, Elsie, Daniel, Irving, Matilda (Mrs. John Kennedy) and Glenn. Rachel Koker, Lewis' daughter married George Promucior who also was an early settler here, and another daughter Mahala married John Herrington. A son, Lewis Koker died on July 18, 1881 when 21, and he is buried in the Danbury cemetery. The Koker family left here soon after his death when T.K. Frentress filed for and bought the Koker land. Mr. Koker was infuriated when he lost his land. Four families packed up and left here by wagon soon after they lost the land. They went first to Menden, Minnesota, the Indian Reservation on which the parents of Mrs. Koker lived. Wagons making the trip were Lewis and Lot Koker, Mr. and Mrs. John Kennedy, and a Chapman who had married Addie Herrington. From Minnesota they went on to Bismarck, North Dakota, and then on west. Lot and Zella Chapman Koker went to Melrose, Idaho, Nez. Perce Prairie. They died and were buried in a Melrose cemetery. Lewis Koker and wife settled near Spokane, Washington, and were buried there. Some of this group later went on to Imperial Valley in California. Reynolds, first name unknown, came in 1850 and filed for a homestead on Reynolds Creek on land presently owned by John Cord. He built a house and dug a well near the creek bank. The creek was named for him. He left his claim in 1861 to serve in the Civil War. He never returned, so it was presumed he died during the Civil War. Abel Stowell and wife homesteaded an 80 acres (Part of Ed Hoyt farm) when they came here in 1858. Abel built a log cabin home. Abel was one of the organizers of the first fairs held in Danbury in 1891. He owned race horses. William Ring came to the Maple Valley in 1856, and he settled on Section 6, Maple Township, Monona County (Manley Durst farm). He came up the Mississippi-Missouri River from St. Louis to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and from there he came up the Missouri River Valley to the Maple Valley. He pre-empted 160 acres. Mr. Ring had obtained a good education in the East and had worked as a contractor and builder. William married Miss Sarah Hagerdon. In 1865 William built the first frame house in our valley. Lumber was of solid walnut which he hauled from Boone, Iowa, with wagon and oxen. Mr. Ring was elected Monona County Treasurer in 1873, and he was also road supervisor. He was in charge of the building of the first steel bridge built across the Maple River at Mapleton, Iowa, and it excelled all bridges built previously. John and Margaret Castly (Kastle) came from New York in a wagon train in 1862. He homesteaded an 80 acres south of Danbury (Treiber place) in then Maple Township, Monona County, but now Cooper Township. He later bought another 80 acres near Old Mapleton. John's wife passed away, and John was in very poor health by 1873. A brother, George Castle and wife Catherine (Auntie) sold their land near Old Mapleton and came to live with John on his homestead, and Auntie cared for her brother-in-law. John sold his homestead to a nephew, Adam Treiber, who came from New York with his wife Bertha and two small daughters, Elizabeth and Mame in 1877. George Castle, wife Catherine and brother John then moved into Listonville which was then nothing but a name. They were some of Listonville's first citizens. All died while living here, and all were buried in the Heisler Cemetery. Daniel and Margaret Patchen homesteaded land east of Danbury (part of Hoyt farm). Exact year of their arrival was unknown, but they came before the beginning of the Civil War. They had a log cabin home. They had children Belle (Mrs. James Pearce), Charlie who married Jessie Patterson, Margaret and Jerome. Jessie Patterson Patchen married a second time to Ed Hoyt after the death of her husband, Charlie. She had two sons from her first marriage. She had two sons from her first marriage. James and Ellen Collins Miller settled 10 miles north of our area on a creek which was later known as Miller Creek. They came with oxen and wagon in 1855. Ellen's parents were John and Kathryn (Curtin) Collins who had married in Cork County, Ireland and had emigrated to the U.S. in 1844. They farmed in Franklin County, New York from 1844 to 1852 when they came west with other settlers and settled in Dubuque County near Guttenberg, Iowa. Ellen Collins married John Miller in Dubuque County in 1853 and came on West in 1855. They chose an area where terrain was hilly, and there were many trees and good springs for water. All ten of Ellen's brothers and sisters later came to this area, which became known as Cork Hill, as all the families were from Cork Hill, Ireland. These were the families known to be living here before the arrival of the Dan Thomas family and before the Civil War. A John and also a Samuel Lee came in 1861, but no other information about them is known. A D.D. Mosser was listed as a trustee in Little Sioux Township in 1860, Matthew Clark a trustee on January 9, 1861, and Thomas E. Stone as treasurer on February 2, 1864. Buel Chapman filed for land as early as August 6, 1856 near Oto which was then in Correctionville Township. David Chapman's name is recorded as having come to this area as early as 1858, four years after his marriage to Lydia Herrington in Illinois, but he returned to Illinois when called to serve in the Civil War. He came to this area with this family after the Civil War ended in 1865.
Indians in Northwest Iowa (1854-1880)
Alcohol was War Eagle's failing, and because of this weakness he died a young man. One night while in the state of intoxication he laid on the cold ground with no covering. It rained during the night, and he took a severe cold from which he never recovered. His wish was to be buried on the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River and his wish was granted in 1851 after his death. His two daughters, Blazing Cloud and Dawn, and their husband, Theophile Brugiere are all buried on the bluff beside him. Their graves can be seen from Highway 75 near Sioux City.
Soon after War EagleÕs death the settlers came in larger numbers. If he would have lived this Sioux Tribe no doubt would have been more friendly toward the white settlers. The Government had encouraged the Indians from northwest Iowa to move into Minnesota to a Reservation near the Minnesota River. Some made the move, but a group known as the Two-Finger Tribe refused to cooperate. Two-Finger was their leader. The group was made up of stragglers of the Sisseton, Yankton, Sioux, and Winnebago Tribes. Many were half-breeds. They actually were no tribe at all but they all drew annuities, and the warriors were desperate villains. When Two Fingers died, Inkpaduta, a regal renegade, took his place as chief. An old timer from Oto claimed that he knew the group well as they often camped along the Little Sioux River at Oto. One of the group was Bahonica, the son of Inkpaduta, and he was a fox, wolf , and bull dog all at one time. He scrupled at nothing and was wiry and quick as lightning. Star Forehead was a powerful Indian over six foot in height. Others in the group were Charlie, Blue Coat, and Long Tooth. The whole group with their families numbered about 150 to 200 persons. They came each fall and fished, hunted, trapped, and roamed.
The first settler to come to Smithland who settled in Woodbury County 1851 had a good word to say for Inkpaduta and his Tribe. Each Fall the Indians would come and set up camp. About 10 or 12 ponies dragged the teepee poles loaded with tents and a few papooses. Curtis Lamb, the settler, said he even entrusted his wife and children to InkpadutaÕs care when it was necessary for him to make a trip to Kanesville for supplies. If logs were needed for the fireplace, Inkpaduta sent squaws to carry them in. He kept Mrs. LambÕs table supplied with fresh fish and venison. The Indians camped on LambÕs place, and they would trade elk, deer, otter, mink, beaver, fox, and other skins and venison hams which Mr. Lamb would haul to Kanesville, 90 miles south, to sell for cash.
The Lambs moved to Sioux City the Spring of 1856, and they then rented the farm to a Livermore family. The Livermores made it plain to Inkpaduta and his band the following December when they came that they were not welcome. Inkpaduta and the band of 35 men, women and children moved on along th eLittle Sioux river bank to a spot on the farm owned by Eljah Adams which was about 2 miles upstream from the village of Smithland.
The different Indian tribes in this part of Iowa warred with each other usually over the boundary lines of their hunting ground, or the theft of horses stolen from each other. A battle between the tribes would sometimes last three days. In the Winter of 1854, a party of Sioux went as far south as the Little Sioux River in Harrison County in search of a party of Omahas with whom they were at war. The Omahas had crossed over into Iowa which was the Sioux Hunting Ground. The Sioux killed four of the Omaha tribe and took their ponies. The Omahas followed in hot pursuit to get revenge.
In 1855 Herman Clarke stopped at William ThompsonÕs Trading Post overnight. He left for Sioux City the next morning. Upon arriving at the Floyd River he looked over the bluff into Nebraska. Under the bluff on the Iowa side were about 15 bucks having a scalp dance. They were beating tom toms and dancing with scalps on poles about twelve feet long. Mr. Clarke presumed the warriors had taken the scalps in Nebraska but did not celebrate the feat until they had crossed the river to the Iowa side. Mr. Clarke returned to ThompsonÕs cabin.
Two settlers from Mapleton were once traveling from Mapleton to Sioux City. When they were about 12 miles past Smithland they spotted a group of about 13 warriors. They tried to avoid meeting them, but the Indians saw them then rushed toward the settlers with tomahawks, raised and yelling like wild. The settlers tried to outrun them with their horses, but the Indians were steadily gaining ground. The coming of the stage coach saved their lives. The stage was going from Smithland to Sioux City, and the Governor of Dakota Territory was aboard that stage. The band of Indians disbursed with the coming of the stage, but a courier was sent back to Smithland for help. They expected more trouble from the Indians before they reached Sioux City. A group of nine men came from Smithland and accompanied the stage to Sioux City.
A family (Youngs) were suddenly surprised by a number of Santee warriors who streamed into their farmyard north of Sioux City. The family tried to escape. An invalid mother was hidden in a buggy and covered with a feather bed. When the Indians found her they set fire to the buggy, and she burned to death. A 15 year old boy was killed. The father and 2 sons escaped into the tall prairie grass and a 17 year old daughter was taken captive and taken to the teepee of Chief Little Crow. The girl was later freed by the Frontier Guards. She said she was well treated. She said Little Crow was married to four sisters. When he came into camp from riding, one wife helped him dismount, another put his horse away, and the other two made him comfortable in his teepee. Other hostages were taken in this raid, and the Indians wanted to sell them for ransom, kill them or they would trade them for buffalo skins.
Spirit Lake Massacre 1857
Several events led up to the Spirit Lake Massacre. Inkpaduta and his band of 15 or more restless warriors with squaws, children and papooses had spent the Fall of 1856 at Loon Lake in Jackson County in Minnesota. Early in the Winter they proceeded down the Little Sioux River as far as the Smithland settlement. They camped on the Elijah Adams farm, and the group arrived in mid-December. The squaws frequently visited Mrs. Adams and her daughter at their log house, seeking to exchange beadwork and other handicrafts for clothing and food. When the weather permitted, the men went hunting. The Indians were quiet and sociable.
Snow started to fall the first of December, and soon after, one of the worst blizzards ever struck. Many animals were buried alive under the deep snow. The snow kept steadily falling, and by February the snow was four feet deep on the level. The Indians could find no game to hunt, and as time went on things got worse. When the Indians were starving, they started to steal and kill the settlers' livestock. The Indians had not been camped on the Adams farm too long when they discovered unhusked corn under the deep snow in a field south of the Smithland settlement. The warriors sent the squaws to gather it. As the Indian women passed through the settlement carrying corn in blankets slung on their backs, they were accused of stealing the corn from cribs by the settlers. Two Smithland residents obtained willow switches and began whipping the squaws. They dropped the corn and ran to the camp.
One day a large drove of elk appeared in the timber on the river. The nearly famished Indians began preparations for a hunt. The hunt was well on its way when an Indian was attacked by a settler's dog. The Indian retaliated by killing the dog. Then the dog's owner administered a severe beating to the Indian and disarmed him.
The settlers began to assume an unfriendly attitude toward the Indians, which in turn changed the attitude of the Indians toward the whites. The settlers thought before there was more trouble they had better try to persuade the Indians to break camp. They appointed a vigilante group to talk to the Indians and devised a plan. The men selected were Eli Lee, John Howe, John Kinnea, Thomas Nagle, Eli Floyd, Jim Kirbey, M.L. Jones, O.B. Smith, William Thurman, Ed Howe, B.M. Mead, Wesley Thurman, John Floyd, Thomas Bowers, Jonathan Leach, A. Livermore and Thomas Davis. There were only 24 eligible men in the Smithland settlement. A General Harney had visited the Indians in previous years, and the Indians knew this officer of the calvary well. The man planned to dress Seth Smith, a settler, in a uniform he had when in the Ohio militia. He was to stand some distance away so the Indians wouldn't recognize him. The rest of the vigilantes went to the Indian camp and told them General Harney requested that they leave the valley, and if they didn't, General Harney was going to call his soldiers. The Indians complained, saying it was too cold and they would not be able to find game. Most of the warriors were away from camp hunting. The Indians said they might go south and make friends with the Omahas as they thought hunting would be better in the south. The settlers took the Indians' guns and told them they would be back in the morning. The Indians in the camp did not notice the deception of Seth Smith disguised as General Harney. When the militia went back the next morning, the Indians were gone. Curtis Lamb said afterwards that people then did not understand Indian nature. The Indians had been insulted and they began the journey up the Little Sioux which culminated in massacre. In the "signing up" of the dying embers of the Indian's campfire was a message if only the settlers would have understood. Near the Chief's lodge a few small upright sticks were placed near the embers. This message told the four absent hunters on their return to avoid all parties of white men, take care of their guns, and join the band as soon as possible farther up the Little Sioux The Indians joined forces near the Correctionville settlement thirsting for revenge.
The Spirit Lake Massacre could have been avoided. The direct cause, of course, was the settlers driving them away. Couriers could have been sent ahead to warn other settlers, but no one realized what the Indians were up to doing.
Two regrettable incidents happened at Smithland the same day the militia asked the Indians to move camp, and both incidents happened on the Elijah Adams farm. The families of Elijah Adams and David T. Hawthorn (23 persons) had arrived at Smithland on June 5, 1856. Adams, the leader, had prospered in Illinois and brought 100 head of cattle to Iowa. He purchased 320 acres of land in Little Sioux Township for $3.60 an acre the Fall of 1855. Both he and his wife were Kentucky natives. They had children: Wallace, Harry, Elizabeth and G.E. Lige. David T. Hawthorne came to Illinois from Maryland, and when a young man, worked for Elijah Adams. He married, and when the Adams family came to Iowa, David and wife came also. They had three children when they came to Iowa: Mary, John and Virginia. A son, William Franklin was born on the farm on February 3, 1857. David Hawthorne was known as "Trapper" as he was often absent from home for long periods. He trapped beaver all over Northwest Iowa. He also herded cattle for Elijah Adams. The Indians visited their homes often after the bad winter set in on begging expeditions, but both the Adams and Hawthorne families shared with them. When the Adams cattle died of starvation, the Indians ate them.
Spirit Lake Massacre 1857
Roving bands of other Indians would be met occasionally. Two Sioux brothers from the reservation of Yellow Medicine River, Minnesota, visited the camp at Skunk Lake. They proposed to purchase Abby, but Inkpaduta informed them that she was not for sale. They then traded stock for Mrs. Marble. Before leaving camp, Mrs. Marble promised Abby that if she reached civilization, she would do all she could to have her rescued.
About 4 weeks after Mrs. Marble's departure, a small band of Yanktons joined the band, and one of them, End of the Snake, purchased Mrs. Noble and Abby. It was unfortunate for Mrs. Noble that the men did not make immediate departure with the women. End of the Snake was a one-legged Indian. He did most of his hunting from a horse, and either his squaw or one of his captive women he had purchased trudged miles following him picking up his game. He had a dog that brought the game out of the water. The captive women slept in the tent of their newly adopted family. One night when the women had returned from a hunt, they gathered wood and returned to their teepee. When ready to retire, Roaring Cloud, son of Inkpaduta, came into the tent and ordered Mrs. Marble out. She refused to obey him, so he grabbed her arm and a piece of wood the women had gathered, drug her outside, and struck her three severe blows on the head. He concluded that he had killed her, came into the tent to wash his bloody hands, had a few words with the Yankton, owner of Mrs. Noble, and then lay down to sleep. Abby, who very much feared for her own life, heard Mrs. Noble groan and wanted to go to help her, but she feared she then would be attacked. The next morning, the warriors gathered around the corpse of Mrs. Noble and used her corpse for a target as well as mutilating it. They cut off her hair braids. While the warriors amused themselves, the squaws were dragging down tent poles, wrapping candles into bundles, packed cooking utensils and loaded dogs. Mrs. Noble's hair braids were tied to a 3' stick, and all that day one young Indian walked beside Abby and kept slashing her in the face with the braids.
In a few days they reached the James River, Spink County, and here they found an encampment of 190 lodges of Yanktons. One of the 17 horses taken from the families at Lake Okoboji, only one, a pony of Dr. Harriot's, had survived this journey. The cruelty of the Indians to the horses, severity of the journey, and no food was too much for them. When word got around camp that there was a white woman squaw in camp, many crowded into the tent to see Abby Gardner.
Three Indian men soon arrived wearing coats and shirts, the white man's habitat. Abby was in doubt about their visit, but she decided they were from civilized country. She soon found out they had come to purchase her. The Indians were paid 2 horses, 12 blankets, 2 kegs of powder, 20 lbs. of tobacco, 32 yards of blue squaw cloth, 372 yards of calico, ribbon and some small articles for Abby's freedom. After the bargain was closed, it was celebrated with a dog feast which was a high honor that the Indians displayed when pleased. The Indians who had purchased Abby lost no time in leaving the village as they suspected Inkpaduta of treachery. They had a wagon and team of horses hidden on the other side of the river. They hurriedly headed south. One of the Indians who made the negotiations was John Otherday or "Man Who Shoots Metal as He walks," an Indian who had always been friendly to the white settlers. At the time of the Minnesota uprising, he saved the lives of hundreds of white settlers by telling them the Indians planned to attack.
Abby soon reached civilization. She married Caswell Sharp of Hampton, Iowa, five months after the Spirit Lake Massacre. She and her husband lived in Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas, and in 1891 settled on her parents' homestead at Arnolds Park, Okoboji, Iowa. She lived there until her death in January 1921. Mrs. Marble remarried and lived out her life in California. Okoboji, an Indian name, means A Place of Rest.
Reaction of Massacre to Woodbury County Settlers
When word came back to Sioux City, Smithland, and Correctionville as to what the Indians had done since leaving Smithland, the settlers were frightened. They feared the Indians would come back for revenge. At Smithland, all hands were put to work building a fort, and they worked feverishly night and day. Many settlers gave up their land, packed and went east. One settler just arriving said he passed more wagons loaded and leaving than he saw wagons coming in. Those who did stay went to the forts for protection. The settlers organized cavalry divisions to protect themselves. These were small groups of eligible men stationed at various trouble spots. The organization from Onawa was called Monona Union Guards, and those from Woodbury County were Frontier Guards. Fort Cherokee was built in 1863. Fort Petersen at Petersen, Iowa, and Estherville also had forts. Brigade outposts of the calvary were stationed at Ocheydan, Melborne, Ida Grove, Sac City, West Fork, Monona County, and Little Sioux.
A soldier on guard brought word back about the atrocities. He rode into Sioux City and said the different tribes of the Sioux had joined together to make war on the whites. Strike the Tree, a longtime friend of the whites, reportedly had joined the Smutty Bear and all were headed for Northwest Iowa. Word was immediately given out to retain all ammunition, 100 rounds for each gun, and a guard was to be posted two miles from the settlement. Women and children then living in Sioux City were crowded into a house on Pearl Street, and the men started to build a stockade. A carrier was dispatched to Smithland and to Harrison County, asking them to muster up some troops and send them to Sioux City. This was all a false alarm. The Indians were trying to get away as they feared the settlers would come in pursuit. The Calvary was used in a few instances.
Many Indians remained in the area a number of years. Small groups were seen here as late as 1880. They would come from the Winnebago or South Dakota reservation and set up camp along the Maple, Soldier and Little Sioux Rivers. Sometimes just a couple would come and often 3 or 4 families. Favorite camping ground along the Maple in this area was near the Leslie Wildon farm and on the Koker Creek and the Maple near the Ed Dirksen farm.
Joe Welte told the story that when he was a child of 10 or 12, an Indian couple had set up camp on Koker Creek. Joe and his brother trapped for muskrat along the Maple. The Indians asked the Welte boys for the animals after they skinned the muskrat as they used the meat for food. The boys gave them the meat, and they then invited the boys in to play cards with them in their teepee.
Indians, too, often camped in Devil's Den Hill and on the Soldier River east of Herb Teut's farm buildings. The mannerisms of begging and stealing, traits of the Indians, caused a great deal of anxiety to these first settlers. Indians believed it wrong to steal from members of their own tribe but not to steal from members of another Indian tribe or the settlers. The settlers often had to guard freshly butchered meat. When game was scarce they would steal potatoes, turnips, corn, etc. from gardens and often meat from smoke houses. Mrs. Adam Treiber often told the story that one afternoon three young warriors rode into their yard and came to the house begging for food. She had just finished baking bread so gave them a fresh loaf of bread. A few days later they returned again. This time they came into the house and took all the bread she had on hand.
The settlers, at least most of them, were willing to share, but often they were depending on the food for themselves, and sharing was sometimes a hardship on them. In some areas the settlers were mean to the Indians and forts were built to protect the Indian from being persecuted. That did not happen in Northwest Iowa.
The Indians had no books of learning, but they were skilled farmers, fisherman, irrigation engineers, astronomers, weavers, potters, tanners, leather workers, dyers, craftsmen with gems, merchants, painters, architects, sculptors, carvers, musicians, poets, orators, and law makers. They had a cipher writing which they wrote on birch bark stitched with sinews. They also had a currency, different dialects, but a common language.
A monument was dedicated in Sioux City on October 21, 1922, for War Eagle. It was placed over War Eagle's grave. All descendants of War Eagle still living attended. Songs were sung in Yankton-Sioux tongue, and an Indian prayer for a long dead child were a part of the services.
CHAPTER 3
The Beginning of our Town, Listonville
The Dan Thomas family, first permanent residents, came west from Freeport, Illinois, in 1864, a short time before the ending of the Civil War. Dan Thomas had purchased land from Thomas Davis, Charley A. Cobb and wife, and a Margaret Martin during the year 1857 in Freeport. Thomas Davis had speculated and bought up thousands of acres of land and then resold at a profit. One of these parties had even built a frame house on his holdings, but it was believed they left here again after the Indian scare of 1857, and that was the Fall, too, of the big prairie fire. According to records, Dan Thomas bought this land in 1857, but they did not venture on west until seven years later. Information regarding the Thomas family was provided by Fourth Freedom Thomas, son of Frank Thomas and grandson of Dan Thomas, home Princeton, Idaho.
Dan Thomas was born on December 12, 1833, in Freeport, Illinois. He was the fifth child in a family of five boys and two girls. His parents had moved from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Freeport several years previous to Dan's birth. They had sons James, Jay, Benjamin, Franklin, Daniel, and Rockwell, and daughters Lovina and Hannah. James and Jay left home at an early age imbued with adventure. James disappeared on his way to Alaska, and Jay was last known to have boarded a boat for down the Mississippi River, but neither was ever heard from again. Dan married Mary Ann Smith on July 3, 1856, in Freeport, Illinois. Mary Ann was born on April 11, 1838, in Portage, Co., Ohio, and her parents came to Freeport, also.
Dan Thomas was a very energetic and ambitious young man. He was adept at many trades, but his occupation while in Freeport was a mason. Dan and Mary Ann's first child was a daughter, Lovina, born on April 13, 1857. Another daughter, Ida, was born on December 28, 1858. A son, Abel, was born in December of 1861, but he died in 1863 when 1 year and 10 months old. A second son, Benjamin Franklin was born on July 26, 1864. Dan and Mary had been married 8 years, and besides buying some land, had saved their money and inherited some, about $20,000. They wanted to invest in more land, and Northwest Iowa was just being opened up for settlement. The Sioux Indians who had been occupying Northwest Iowa, had just signed a treaty to give up Northwest Iowa and to move to a reservation in Minnesota. There were wonderful opportunities here, much choice, cheap land. Dan and Mary decided to leave for Iowa after the birth of Benjamin Franklin in the Fall of 1864.
The Beginning of our Town, Listonville
They came with two covered wagons loaded with sod-buster plow, small tools, feed some furniture, several weeks' provisions, a cow tied to the back of the wagon, and a coop of chickens tied to the side. Dan always owned good horses. It was treacherous driving on the prairies because of the many sloughs. You usually bogged down in some of these sloughs, then the wagon had to be unloaded, and when the wagon was pulled out, everything had to be reloaded. They crossed the Mississippi River by ferry at Davenport, Iowa. They came across Iowa by the southern route through Iowa City, Marshalltown, and Des Moines which in 1864 was just a fort. They crossed the Raccoon, Des Moines and Boyer rivers and several smaller streams in making this trip. From Fort Des Moines the trail went to Adel and Panora, Iowa. From Panora you followed the stage coach route to Denison. You crossed the Little Sioux River below Little Sioux, Iowa, where there was a ferry crossing. Near Onawa their wagons became mired in gumbo, and an axe was used to chop the gumbo from the wheels. They followed the Little Sioux River, then the Maple River, and came on to this area. Very little sod had ever been turned on the land he had purchased.
All one could see in any direction was prairie grass, some shoulder height to a horse, and that along the sloughs of a shorter variety, and many cattails grew in the sloughs. There were no trees except for a few along the Maple River banks. There were many wildflowers. There were thousands of prairie chickens and rabbits. There also were grey wolves, wild turkey, deer, and hundreds of muskrat houses everywhere in the swamp area. There were many beavers, and they had houses in the Maple River. There were several species of the long legged family here, too, in 1864.
The Thomas family moved into a house left by a settler on some of the land Dan had purchased. The house was small and believed to have been the small house straight west of the Danbury park which is presently owned by Arnold Ortner. Dan set to work plowing sod on which he wanted to plant his crops the next year. This gave the sod a chance to mellow and was called "back-setting." Dan also cut prairie grass with a scythe and stacked it so as to have hay for his horses and cow through the winter. He built a shed for his animals and fenced an enclosure to hold them, and it was made of willow poles notched and mortised at the ends.
Dan bought more land after he came here, most of which was low, wet and it had many sloughs. This wet land would be bought for a little as $1.25 an acres, and some of it sold up to $6 an acre. Courthouse records say Dan Thomas owned more than a thousand acres, much of it being purchased from Thomas Davis and the Iowa Railroad Land Co. He owned the present Herman Sohm farm in Sec. 21, the Ralph Scott, Glen Patterson, Herman Sohm 80 north of Danbury, and present land on which Danbury is located, all in Sec. 27, Leo Schrank land Sec. 28, Lola Durst land Sec. 26, and Norbert Brenner farm Sec. 31. C.E. Whiting and W. Ordway of Monona County also owned large amounts of land in this area.
Animals were left to graze on the prairies by day, often herded, and at night they were rounded up and yarded. Horses were often stolen, and they also were easy prey for the cougars. Fourth Thomas told this story:
"Grandfather had fine horses, and he kept them in a pasture along a creek bottom where there was shade from a few scattered willows and other trees. One day when he went to round up some of the horses, he found one mare with deep gashes that ran along her back from her withers to her rump. Evidence pieced together indicated that a panther had attacked her from a tree limb. The horse ran under low hanging branches in an effort to get the animal from her back, but in doing this the animal had clawed the horse from one end to the other."
Some of the Thomas land was too wet to farm. At one time there was a large lake extending from the present schoolhouse to present Main Street. Thomas E. Frentress, an other early timer, often told the story of the deer drinking at this lake and how he had at one time shot one. The Maple River then had two large oxbows or bends, and one bend almost extended into town limits by the Glen Patterson barn. The river was more shallow then, the banks more sloping, and there was a gravel bottom in many places. The Maple River was crossed, before we had bridges, in the bend that nearly reached the town limits. The river afforded excellent fishing of catfish, carp, buffalo, bullheads, etc. In time many of the sloughs dried up, and by 1877 T.K. Frentress said there were wheat fields from the Thomas farm in North Danbury to the river.
Dan Thomas moved to higher ground on the 80 acres now owned by Herman Sohm a couple of years after he came here. His buildings would be more centrally located to his farmland. He built a new frame house and plastered it. All lumber and material was hauled from Denison. He also built a livestock shelter and a corn crib. To make a fenced enclosure for his animals, he went to the river and cut willow trees then trimmed them and drug them home. He used the poles to make a fence. The poles were first notched and then the ends mortised. Dan Thomas also dug a well. This was not much of a problem in 1860s as the water level was close to the ground. All wells then were open wells. Water was brought up with a pail attached to a rope and a winch. In the winters these open wells were a problem. The water would freeze, and then a hole was chopped and the pail was submerged beneath the ice to get water.
Fourth Thomas said, "After getting settled in Iowa, Grandfather found it necessary to make frequent trips to Denison, Mapleton, Onawa or Dunlap to get supplies. A few other families were moving into the area, and they often asked Grandpa to haul supplies for them on the return trip. On each trip, he brought extra supplies. This business grew and finally one room of the house was set aside to store merchandise until it could be picked up by the parties ordering them. Later a small room was attached to the house to store the supplies, and he soon brought back more than had been ordered and started a trading post in his home. The trading post was started by 1866 or '67.
When the Thomas family arrived, Lovina was 7, Ida 6, and the baby Benjamin Franklin was 3 months old. A set of twins were born on February 1, 1866, and they were the first babies born in Listonville. One of the twins survived, Alice, and she weighed but 2 1/2 lbs. when born. Another baby born in 1868 died in infancy. A son, Charles Daniel, was born on January 7, 1871.
The Country School
Schools were very important to these first settlers, and as soon as they were settled on their land, a schoolhouse was built so that the children could attend school. The first school in Woodbury County was built in Smithland, Iowa. It was built near the cabin of Eli Smith in 1853. It was a log cabin structure, and it took 5 days to construct it. O.B. "Buckskin" Smith superintended the building of the school. Everyone turned out to help. A framework was built of logs, and large chunks of sod were used on the roof. Slabs of logs served as seats and desks, it had an earthen floor, and glass for the windows was obtained from a sunken steamship in the Missouri River near Sioux City. While the men constructed the school, the women prepared a dinner of wold turkey and corn pone. Only 5 or 6 children attended the school at first. None had suitable books. The school was operated by subscription money. Mrs. Hannah Van Horn was the first teacher, and she received $2 a week and Mr. O.B. Smith boarded and roomed her free of charge. A school fund commission managed the country school until 1858. The first schools were far apart, and they were built wherever some settler gave some of his land for a school. Some children walked as far as 4 miles to school.
The first school in Oto Township was a pole-like shed. It was built the year the Thomas family arrived. School was only held there in the summer months. Kate Ratchforf taught the school. Hay was used for the roof in that school. The teacher and pupils had to make a hurried exit one day because snakes were falling from the hay, and many were up above them with their tongues out and were hissing, etc. The teacher and pupils had intruded into their winter home.
In 1858 the first county superintendent, H.H. Chaffee was elected. In 1859 there were 248 pupils in Woodbury County, in 1863 there were 466 pupils enrolled, and in 1869 there were 1,020 pupils.
By 1867 Lovina Thomas was 10 and Ida 9, and neither of them had attended school. There were several other families, too, that had children of school age. Lot and Zella Chapman Koker, Davis and Lydia Herrington Chapman, John and Elizabeth Cline Bowser, William and Catherine O'Neill Smythe, and Abel Stowell were some of them. John and Theresa Townsend Herrington had come here with a son, John from Illinois in 1866. They bought land along the Maple River presently owned by Carl and Caroline Treiber Uhl. John Sr. gave a piece of his land. The school sat along the creek band across the road from the present Caroline Treiber Uhl farm. They wanted to be near water springs as they often relied on the springs for water. The school was built of lumber, some native. The name of the first school was Habana. This was an 8-grade school, and the principle subjects taught were reading, writing and arithmetic. Teachers were hired for a 3-month period. School started in September, but it was dismissed during the month of November, so all pupils could help their parents pick the corn. It resumed again in December. Many of the older boys and girls just went to school in the Winter months. Occasionally a married couple would attend school during the Winter months. A school term was 8.3 months.
Because so many older boys attended school, school masters were often hired as teachers. They could discipline these large boys, and often the school master reprimanded them with a willow stick in the woodshed. Isaiah "Pony" Davis was one of the first teachers in this school.
The schoolhouse in the 1860s and 70s was the center of all social activity. Often religious services were held there. Many debates were held there. The Hesperian Society, a debating society, would debate about some political question with some other team from Mapleton or some other town. Spelling bees and box socials, too, drew large crowds.
By 1872 more schools were needed as there were more families coming every year. A second school was built in Listonville in 1872. Dan Thomas sold a plot of ground to the county, and the school was built where St. Patrick's Church later was built. This school was named Maple Valley. It was wooden, and it had a bell and belfry. It was a small school, and it was not in use too long, as when the Danbury Public School was built in 1879, it was discontinued. One of the first teachers to teach here was Plinn Woodward who was born in Piero, taught school in Smithland, and then came to Listonville to teach in the Maple Valley School in 1876. This school was moved to the Albert Fisher farm in 1883 when the Danbury Catholics bought the property up on the hill.
The Country School
James Lee came in 1872, and he and some other settlers built the Lee School then just west of the Guy Fisher buildings. This school was later known as the Fischer School. This school partially burned a few years later. When they were going to rebuild, Albert Fischer told them he would give a school lot, but he wished they would move it to the south quarter section as the school children upset his cattle in the yards. Jake Virtue and Charley Schrunk then moved the building and built on some new parts.
By 1875 school districts were formed. Danbury was in Liston township Independent District, and there were 6 schools in the district. Most schools changed their names whenever a new director was hired. On March 29, 1875, more school districts were formed, and from that time on, schools had to be built on the corner of a land section and no child was to walk more than 2 miles to school. Habana, which was later known as Babbe School, was moved to the corner section of the present Leo Seuntjens farm. This school was in operation until 1916. Then there was the Runyon School later Dose School, the Meisenhelder School, McAleer School, Lee-Fisher School, and a school north, the Harrigan School. All of these country schools were under the board of directors that managed the Danbury Public School. They hired the teachers and saw that the school was clean upon opening in the fall. There were at first few books and a diversity of classes; a class lasted about 9 minutes. The first schools had no dictionaries or blackboards. There was a lot of tardiness and absences. A child advanced by readers, usually 2 readers a year. Wages from $22 to $33 for 3 months of teaching, and teachers paid $2.50 a week for room and board. The School Fund Commissioner handled the money. There were no banks then. He hid the money used to finance the school in his home, usually in the straw tick. He paid the teacher her wages and bought fuel for the school. A wagon load of cobs cost a dollar. Usually one of the bigger boys started the stove in the morning and also carried water for the pupils.
The Union Grove District was east of Danbury. The Gaylord School was no doubt the oldest. Before Danbury had a Methodist church, religious classes were held there, and the traveling ministers would come there to preach, baptize, etc. Many baptismal services were held at Schimmer's Lake. Services were held there by 1875. This school was later called Hoyt School. The Flood and Fessenbeck Schools were also in this district.
Formation of Liston Township and Listonville, Iowa
Liston Township, 1868, was carved from Little Sioux Township. The Board of Directors ordered an election to be held after its formation on November 10, 1868. Election was possibly held at The Trading Post or at Habana School. In a description of Liston Township written in 1890 in "Woodbury and Plymouth County History," it said, "Just north of the townsite of Danbury for some years before the laying out of that town, there was a store that was kept by Dan Thomas and his family. The post office was in the store, and Dan Thomas was postmaster. At that time, the town was called Liston Post Office. This was the first store in the township. From this nucleus has arisen the progressive town of Danbury." In that first election in Liston Township, Dan Thomas was elected Justice of the Peace. When a new township was formed, a post office was also established in the township. Since Dan Thomas operated the only business in the township, he was appointed postmaster. It was then a name was given to the town. Since Liston Township had just been formed, they called the new little town Liston Town and sometimes it was called Listonville. The bedroom of the Thomas home became the first post office. A stagecoach which had been operating between Sioux City and Cork Hill then started coming to Liston Town, and it became the terminus point. The Thomas home became the stopping place for the stage which carried the mail, passengers and small freight. Benjamin Smith was stagecoach driver for many years.
The old timers always said that Danbury started up on the hill, and this was true. Dan Thomas had the trading post and post office in his home. His home, too, was a sort of hotel. Any passengers coming in on the stage could stay there overnight and also be fed. The school, too, was up on the hill after 1872. The Thomas home was at the north end of present Thomas Street. Lot Koker was the first blacksmith, but location of his shop is unknown.
Liston Town Stages
Dan Thomas made many trips to Denison for supplies for his store. He also made occasional trips to Ida Grove and Onawa. The first settlement in western Iowa to have train service was Council Bluffs in 1863. By 1866 this railroad line was extended to Denison. From 1863-1866 all supplies had been hauled by wagon from Council Bluffs to Denison. Each trip Dan Thomas made to Denison he carried mail for persons here who wanted to write to relatives back east, and he also brought mail back from Denison. Many of the first settlers took the Denison paper as a daily paper. He also hauled passengers back and forth until 1875. There then were no bridges over the Maple and Soldier Rivers. William Smith was mail carrier to and from Denison from 1875 to 1879.
Denison Stage - Ridge Road
The Denison Stage followed a trail called the Ridge Road. The Maple River was crossed in present Glen Patterson pasture. The river here had gently sloping banks and had a gravel and firm bed. The trail then crossed the Herrington land southeast to Devil's Den Corner. The trail went south past the Woods and Treiber farms (John Castle farm 1862-1877). The trail crossed the Wiese farm diagonally from northwest to southeast and then turned east crossing the prairies to the Solder River. The Schoenfelt farm where Herb Teut lives at present was a stopping place. The horses were watered there and sometimes exchanged for fresh horses. Food could be obtained at Schoenfelts, also. The trail went southeasterly after crossing the Soldier where Ricketts, Iowa, is now located, then southeast and met up with the Ridge Road, a curving, winding road that followed the ridges into Denison. The Frederick Messenbrink home was a 12 mile station, and there was also a 6 mile station. Paradise Hill was on Ridge Road. This road was the first built in the area, and all work was done with dirt scoops, horses and mules. The road workers then set up camp close to work. When working one of the steep hills, one of the workmen was killed, so the hill was called Paradise Hill. The first bridge across the Soldier River was built in 1882. This stage and mail run was discontinued after the railroad come to Liston Town as mail then came in from the east by train.
Liston town-Sioux City Stage
The first train came into Woodbury County the year Liston Township was formed, 1868. It was the Sioux City and Pacific, and it extended from Missouri Valley to Sioux City. This line was 75 miles long, and Sergeant Bluff, Salix and Sloan were on that line. Mail then came into Sioux City via train. There it was sorted, and once a week the stage traveled back and forth between Liston Town and Sioux City. Later, two trips were made a week, and soon it went to Sioux City one day and returned the next 6 days a week. Benjamin Smith was driver of this stage from 1868 to 1886. He came to Monona County , Maple Township, in 1864 and homesteaded land in the Maple Valley. He was Justice of Peace in Cooper Township in 1872. His wife, Sally died when they farmed in Monona County. They had a daughter, Elmira, too young to leave alone after the mother died, so Elmira was left with a neighbor who raised her, Mrs. George Castle or "Auntie" as everyone called her. A stage driver had very little time of his own, especially when they drove the stage 6 days a week. Their hours, too, were irregular. Changes in the weather affected their work. Benjamin Smith ran an ad in The Danbury Review, then known as the Maple Valley Scoop which read, "Stage leaves Sioux City Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00 sharp. Stage leaves Danbury Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00 sharp. Fare 5¢ a mile. Light freight carried at reasonable rates."
Benjamin Smith moved to Danbury in 1870s. He ran a meat market in Danbury at one time. He was mayor of Danbury 1884-1886. Joseph Welte remembered him well. He said Benjamin kept his stage and horses at the Levi Herrington Livery located on the corner of Liston and 2nd streets.
The Sioux City stage went west out of Danbury past the John Bowser, Martin Smith, and the Iddings farm. The trail went through the present Ives farm, passing between the present house and barn. Oto was the first stop. Passengers and mail were picked up there. From Oto the stage went into Grant Township to Peiro, a small settlement with post office, church, cemetery, blacksmith shop, and a store. Peiro never incorporated, and the town slowly went out of existence. The stage stopped at the store which was managed by a Mr. Griffith. The next stop was in Climbing Hill, West Fork Township. This was the Half- Way Station. George Henry operated the hotel at Climbing Hill; passengers could eat and rest there. Fresh horses were hitched to the stage at Climbing Hill. The trail followed ridges of the hills, and an early history book said, "The great road from Danbury to Sioux City crossed the bluffs to West Fork Township and passed through Grant, and the road would do credit to a Virginia Hillside Worm Fences, or the track of a rattler through the grass." It was a very crooked path. The route also went through the Floyd and Woodbury Townships. This trail intersected with the Denison-Sioux City Stage Coach Route, or what was later called the Denison Highway, now Old 141. The trail then turned right past Camp Creek, then went in a northeasterly direction past Barlow Hall and into Sioux City. Barlow Hall was a baronial style mansion built by Alexander . Barlow who came to Sioux City in 1879 and purchased thousands of acres of land. He built this home 10 miles southeast of Sioux City, and it was quite a show place and an object for discussion from the earlier days of our history. This stage line operated until the railroad tracks were completed from Mapleton to Onawa in 1886. The completion of the Northwestern line between Carroll and Onawa gave Danbury connections to the east as well as to the west.
The Cross Roads Store 1873
In 1873 the first building in present downtown business area was built by Dan Thomas. Dan Thomas hauled all lumber from Denison and built the store himself. It was a two-story building with basement. The store on first floor had a plank floor. The upper floor was to be used for a meeting hall, church services, and for a dance hall. The store was called the Cross Roads Store by many as a trail ran north and south in front of the store and east and west on the south side of the store. There was a scale on the south side of the store. The store was in the middle of a wheat field and there were sloughs all round it. A sign above the store said "Dan Thomas General Store," and the dance hall was called Thomas Hall. The stage stopped at the store after it was built, and passengers and mail were picked up there. The post office was also moved to the store from the Thomas home and the storekeeper acted as postmaster. A sort of bin was built into the south side of the store so that the stage driver, if he came in after the store was close, could put the mail into this bin so it would remain dry in case of rain.
The Cross Roads Store 1873
A dance was held in Thomas Hall after the hall was completed. Scott Denison who married one of Dan Thomas' daughters furnished the music. Dan Thomas hired men to help him work his land that summer as the store he knew would be a success here. Dan prospered in both store and his own land. He had accumulated well over a thousand acres of land and had large fields of wheat. He also had to haul supplies for his store until 1877 when the railroad was extended into Danbury. The railroad was finished to Mapleton and the first train came through in November of 1877, but is was not until 1878 that supplies were shipped in numbers.
In 1874-75 Dan hired a Mr. Blackmar and wife Rebecca Coolidge Blackmar to come to Liston Town with their family and work for him. Mr. Blackmar worked in the store. His wife Rebecca died while they lived in Danbury. The Blackmars had three children, and Kitty the youngest was 9 at the time of her mother's death. She the lived with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Coolidge (kin of President Coolidge) who also lived in or near Danbury. Kitty married Plinn Woodward on October 16, 1880 at Danbury. Plinn was born in Grant Township near Piero. He came to Danbury to teach at the Dan Thomas School about 1874 or 75. Plinn Woodward and Joe Carver managed the Thomas Store after Mr. Blackmar for a year or so, but Plinn had been studying law and had obtained his degree, so he moved his family to Sioux City. The store drew trade from a large trade area as it was situated where Woodbury, Ida, Monona and Crawford Counties met, and each year the business improved.
The early settlers seldom had money. All trading was done by bartering. The settler would bring the merchant 15 bushels of oats, 10 bushels of wheat, some potatoes or a carcass of meat in exchange for supplies needed. Dan Thomas hired a manager to run his store as he had so may interests. In 1882 he hired G.E. Carroll to manage the store. Mr. Carroll was inefficient ad crafty, ad Dan Thomas lost the store to him by 1884. Carroll then sold the store to Shepard, Field and Cook, merchants and salesmen from Council Bluffs. They sent Be Santee to Danbury to manage the sore, and Frank Gault was sent also to clerk in the store. They installed a scale on the south side of the store to weigh produce brought in by settlers for bartering. The barter system was used extensively for may years. Artificial money known as "chips" in dollar, fifty cents, quarters, etc. denominations were given to the settler for his produce, ad he bought his supplies with the chips as long as they lasted. He the brought in more produce to barter. Eggs and butter were used as barter for many years. When Dan Thomas opened his store in 1873, coffee was 10¢ a pound, eggs 4¢ a dozen, butter 12-15¢ a pound, and one could buy 3 pounds of beef steak for a quarter.
CHAPTER IV
Life on the Prairies
1864-1880
Settlers began to arrive in the Maple Valley as early as 1854. The railroad had been extended as far as Galena, Illinois, from the east as early as 1855, and by 1860 it had been extended to the Mississippi River. The first railroad across Iowa from the east was completed in 1863, and Council Bluffs had the first railroad station in western Iowa. May of these settlers came from New York and were immigrants from the "Old Country." After some time in New York, they would come across country by rail or prairie schooner. May settled in Illinois or eastern Iowa for a time, and when new lands were opened up for sale, they would move on again so as to secure land. The most popular way of traveling was with the covered wagon as it was cheaper, and most of the settlers who came during these years were not as well to do as those coming later to buy railroad land. These settlers came after Woodbury County was surveyed, years 1849-1855 inclusive. The men who surveyed the land suffered many hardships such as Indian raids, inclement weather, swamps, mosquitoes, and prairie fires. Plots were made of the townships, and the plots were numbered, range given and numbered by section. The surveyors marked the corners of each section with a cornerstone on which was the description of the land. These plots were the sent to Surveyors and General Land Office in Washington, DC. Roads were not allowed for when surveyed. In due time these plots with instructions were went sent back to local land offices in Council Bluffs and Sioux City. The first land office was established at Council Bluffs, and the first settlers to come had to file there.
A land office was established in Sioux City in 1855. Dr. S.P. Yoemans was the registrar. The office was built of material and sent up the Missouri River on steamboat from St. Louis. The framework of the building was built in St. Louis, so it took but a short time to erect it after the boat reached Sioux City. The office was built on 6th ad Douglas streets. More land was sold in this office than at any other point along the Missouri River. During the palmy days, after the crash of 1857, time was literally money in Sioux City. It seemed everyone was interested in obtaining land. Business in this office could not be done in a normal way, because of the large crowds of settlers and speculators. A rule was made that applicants should register their names in order or arrival ad each applicant was given just 10 minutes to apply. A number of men not really caring to obtain land made good money from this procedure. They would register and line up, then later sell out their place in line for $50 to someone who had a warrant to obtain land. Men were just wild and the scramble was terrific. Some wanting land remained in the line up all night or sleeping there. Land was also sold at auction in 40 acre lots, and no bid was received for less than $1.25 an acre. Some land sold for as much at $3.50 a acre. As much as a township was sold in one day. The land office was moved to Des Moines in 1877. Year 1871 was the biggest year of sales and grants. The Sioux City Lad Office was used for a butcher shop after the office moved, but it was destroyed by fire in 1877.
In 1854, one thousand seven hundred ad forty-three covered wagons were counted a month on an Illinois prairie bound for Iowa. Woodbury County in 1854 had a population of 170. In 1860 there was 1,078 persons in Woodbury County. The population growth from 1861 until the end of the Civil War was practically at a standstill. The year the Dan Thomas family arrived, 1864, there were 1,291 persons in our county. After the Civil War there was a continual influx of settlers coming into Woodbury, Ida, Monona, and Crawford Counties. Before the end of the Civil War many came by wagon drawn by oxen as horses were hard to obtain during the war years.
| John Brown | Dr. | Cr. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar. 3 | By 13 yds. cloth at $2.50 | $32.50 | |
| Mar. 7 | To 15 bu. oats @ 75¢ | $11.25 | |
| Mar. 8 | By 8 yds. cloth @ $3 | $24.00 | |
| Mar. 11 | To 40 bu. potatoes @ 80¢ - $32.00 | ||
| 17 bu. wheat @ $2 - $34.00 | $66.00 | ||
| Mar. 31 | To balance due per bill rendered | $13.15 | |
| $77.25 | $77.25 | ||
| Apr. 1 | To balance | $13.15 | |
| Apr. 2 | To 15 bu. corn at 80¢ | $12.00 | |
| Apr. 8 | By 12 yds. fabric @ 55¢ | $6.60 | |
| Apr. 14 | By 5 yds. linen at $1.25 | $6.25 | |
| Apr. 18 | To 10 bu. wheat at $1.40 | $14.00 | |
| Apr. 21 | By 12 handkerchiefs @ 33¢ | $3.98 | |
| Apr. 30 | By balance due per bill rendered | $22.34 | |
| $39.15 | $39.15 | ||
| May 1 | To balance | $22.34 | |
| May 1 | To 4 lbs. turnips @ $1.40 | $6.00 | |
| May 3 | By cash for bill rendered Apr. 30 | $22.34 | |
| May 4 | To 3 tons hay @ $25 | $75.00 | |
| May 7 | By 6 pr. gloves @ 35¢ - $3.36 | ||
| 16 yds. ribbon @ 60¢ - $9.60 | $12.96 | ||
| May 17 | To 185 lbs. beef at 9¢ | $16.25 | etc. |
| To 6 yds. domestic @ 85¢ | $5.10 |
|---|---|
| To 1 ball candlewick | 20¢ |
| To 5 yds. red twill flannel at $1.25 | $6.25 |
| To 3 lbs. nails at 16 1/2¢ | 50¢ |
| To 1/2 lb. tea @ $3 | $1.50 |
| To 3 1/2 yds. hickory shirting @ 75¢ | $2.63 |
| To one plug of tobacco | $1.20 |
| To 19 yds. calico @ 45¢ | $8.55 |
| 1873-1882 | Owner Dan Thomas |
| 1882-1884 | G.E. Carroll |
| 1884-1890 | Shepard, Field and C.C. Cook, all of Council Bluffs. C.C. Cook was a traveling salesman. |
| 1890-1904 | C.C. Cook bought out his partners, and he moved here and operated the store. I.B. Santee, Frank Gault, John Crilly, WIlliam Gibson had been managers. |
| 1904-1907 | John Crilly and William Gibson were owners. |
| 1907-1911 | John Crilly was owner, buying out Mr. Gibson |
| 1911-1919 | Approximate. William Jones and John Schrepher (went broke). |
| 1919-1930s | Approximate. Karl Paulsen, owner. |
| 1930-1942 | Matthew and John Keitges were owners. |
| 1942-1955 | Matthew sells out to John, and then John and his son, John Jr. John Jr. operated the store until his father's death. Store burned to ground March 13, 1955. Freeman Hall sits on location today. |
Life on the Prairies
1864-1880
There were a number of ways to obtain land. Some filed for land before seeing it. Others picked their land and then filed. Many pre-empted. This meant you filed and paid for a piece of land after you had farmed it for a year. Some obtained their land by "homesteading." A certain tract of land would become yours after living on it for 5 years. A man who had served in the War of 1812, Black Hawk, Mexican or Civil War could obtain a land grant free of charge or debt. You could purchase the land for cash through the General Land Office at Washington, DC. In 1873 and 1874 the government offered free land for Timber Culture. A free title was given a landowner if he had one fourth of the tract planted to trees at the end of a ten year period. Many of our timbers were started in this manner as the prairies were practically treeless when the first settlers came to this area.
A squatter would claim a tract of land, and farm it, but not file for it. He claimed it as he had farmed it for a few years, but the squatters soon lost their land. A land grabber would hurry to file for land that he knew another party wanted. Luther Woodford of Sergeant Bluff had this happen to him.
Mr. Woodford came to Sergeant Bluff in 1854. He was a clock peddler, and he had worked his way westward selling clocks. He married while living in Agency City, Wapello County in 1833. In 1854 he started west with wagon and team to look at the country. Upon reaching Council Bluffs he heard of a new settlement, Sergeant Bluff in Woodbury County. There were a few families already living there when he arrived. He selected a piece of good land and also a piece of timber. He returned to Wapello County that fall, and on his way home he entered his land at the land office in Council Bluffs. Early the next spring he started again for Woodbury County with two yoke of oxen, a team of horses, 3 wagons, some household goods, building materials and some farm equipment. His oldest married daughter, her husband and son came with him. Upon reaching Sergeant Bluff in May they began to build a log cabin. A minister offered to buy the land and cabin after he had the cabin built for $5.00 an acre, so Mr. Woodford sold it to him, thinking he would enter another piece of land to his liking when he returned to Wapello County that fall. A friend then told him that H.O. Griggs also wanted that piece of land and he had started to Council Bluffs that morning to file for it. Mr. Woodford started on horseback in hot pursuit. He passed Griggs in Sloan when Griggs stopped for dinner. Griggs passed Woodford at Ashton, south of Onawa. Mr. Woodford slept at the Little Sioux Ferry Crossing near Little Sioux after riding hard for 50 miles. He passed Mr. Griggs again the following morning. Both men reached the land office about the same time, and they then found out that both wanted a different piece of land. If both had wanted the same parcel of land, the first to make his signature on the papers would have been the owner.
In the 23 years of business the land office transacted the following:
| Land warrant locations | 6,000 |
| Cash entries | 4,862 |
| Pre-Emption | 9,846 |
| Agriculture College Scrip | 1,505 |
| Pre-emption of Unoffered Lands | 7,122 |
| Homestead entried | 8,993 |
| Homesteads proved up (soldiers) | 4,493 |
| Timber culture | 307 |
1873 Grange Building
Pleasant View No. 7553
The settlers raised some livestock for butchering. If they had extra cattle to sell, they drove them to Denison, the nearest railroad station. Hogs were butchered when cold weather arrived, and the carcasses would be hauled to Council Bluffs. Before Danbury had the railroad, all grain was hauled to Sioux City. Farmers having grain to sell would load the sacks on the wagon, and a couple of planks would be put on top of the corn. The planks were a necessity sometimes when crossing a stream. The farmer would start for Sioux City early in the morning using four horses to pull the wagon load of grain. The stage coach route was followed. He would reach Camp Creek before night fall. Camp Creek was on the Denison highway, or Old 141. It was a favorite camping place about 15 miles on this side of Sioux City. The next morning the wagon went on to Sioux City, and it reached the elevator about noon. After getting some ground corn and wheat and getting unloaded, the settler again started for Camp Creek where he camped again the second night. The third day he arrived home. If the water was high, he unloaded the sacked grain, made a bridge of the plank, and he carried the grain across as he did not want water to get into his wagon box for fear the grain would get wet and he would be docked on the price at the elevator. He reloaded the wagon once on the other side.
Cattle and horses grazed on the prairies. There were no fences built until 1884. Many men made their living as cattle and sheep herders. The men lived in shanties or tents on the prairie. They slept with a gun at their side for protection from wolves, and in the first years they feared the Indian. Sometimes a dog was their only companion for a long period of time. Charles Starkweather, Jacob Sohm, George Castle, Louis Plog, Evan Williams, and William Hillman were all herders. The children of a settler often herded the cattle during the day and brought them home at night.
The settler coming from 1854 had to travel as far as Council Bluffs, Panora, Dunlap or Fort Dodge for supplies. The staples then were matches, nails, cloth, kerosene candlewick, chewing tobacco, smoking tobacco, and whiskey which was popular as it was their only medicine. The railroad came to Council Bluffs by 1863. Freight wagons had hauled supplies across the state, but as the railroad neared the freight wagons, they did not have to go as far. By 1866 supplies could be bought in Denison, and by 1877 the train trackage came into our own town.
Hardships
The settlers suffered many hardships. There was always the worry of prairie fires when the countryside was still virgin prairie. One that the old timers talked about in this area was the fall of 1856. The settlers had put prairie grass in stacks as hay to be fed to the livestock through the winter. The Fall of '56 was very dry. A settler, by shaking the hot coals from his pipe, set off the fire. It was a windy day. The fire started near the Monona-Woodbury County line near Smithland, and after reaching the Maple River, it came up the valley past the Liston Township line and into Ida County. It extended over an area of 15 miles in width. The flames they said leaped 20 feet into the air, and burning grass would fly even higher. The whole countryside looked red, and the thick black smoke obscured the sun's rays during the daytime, making it seem like twilight. The settlers had quite a loss as many of the buildings were destroyed and all of their hay stacks burned. Some of the settlers left again at this time as they had no feed for their livestock. Some lived with friends until the following Spring. The loss of feed for the livestock was a great hardship. The settlers learned to fight fire with fire. A second fire would be started in the path of the first fire, and when the first fire reached the area of the second burned area, it would stop. This method was called "back setting." They also plowed furrows several feet wide around their farms. Sometimes furrows were criss crossed. When the fire reached the plowed area, it would stop. Lightning and sparks from the train locomotive caused many of the fires. The railroad tracks would sometimes stop a prairie fire.
The grasshoppers plagued the settlers from 1867 to 1877, some years being worse than others. In 1872 they came in two droves, one about noon, and the second in the evening. It seemed a cloud suddenly obscured the sun's rays. Then a horde of hungry grasshoppers came out of the sky, and suddenly they were everywhere. Harnesses, sacked feed, etc. were carried into the homes. They tried to rid themselves of the pests by carrying a stretched wire or rope over several rows of corn hoping to scare the grasshoppers away. They drug 20' scrapers filled with kerosene over the pastures and hay land. They beat pans, making loud noises, hoping to scare the hoppers away. There were so many on the newly built railroad tracks that the trains' wheels would slip, and the train could not move. August Ahlwardt told the following story about grasshoppers:
"In 1875 we were ready to start harvesting when the unexpected came. Something came over the sun that looked like a cloud. It was grasshoppers, and they were hungry. Now, I will tell you a few things that they did, and I will swear to our Creator that it is the truth, so help me God. They came soon after noon, and by night about sundown there was not a leaf left on the corn. On the west side of the house where the sun shone, you could not put your finger against the house for grasshoppers. Father started to cut wheat to save what he could. Fritz drove the team while Father and Uncle Fritz Ohm bound. By night Brother Fritz ha no brim on his hat and no back left in his shirt. He would brush them off, some in front with the movement of his arms. They also damaged the harness as they like leather. In 3 days the wind changed to their favor, and they left as they came, all in a swarm, and what a noise they made as they all rose at once. I remember as we walked among them, they would all fly in or crawl in one direction. Father said that if the wind had not changed while they were over us, they would have gone on, but they could not fly against the wind. They had done their work well. There was no feed left for man or beast, and the prosperous farmer of a few days before was in bad shape. Many thought the hoppers had laid eggs and the hoppers wold plague them again the next year, so many decided to sell out and move on."
The sloughs and bogs were breeding places for the mosquitoes, and the mosquitoes, too, plagued both man and beast. Small babies were covered with mosquito netting. The frog population, too, was exceedingly large because there were so many wet bogs. The year 1858 was very wet, and they said there were so many frogs along the Little Sioux River that it was impossible to walk without stepping on them. They got into the settlers' homes and were in cupboard drawers, closets, etc. There were many flies, also. As there were many horses, there, too, were many horse manure piles. These were excellent breeding places for the flies. Bed bugs hibernated in Cottonwood trees, and if a home was built of Cottonwood lumber, the bugs would come out of the wood when the weather got warm, and they, too, created quite a problem. There also were many wolves and cougars. The wolves traveled in packs, and they would attack animals, even horses pulling a wagon. The settlers always carried a gun to protect themselves from wolves and often ran their teams to get away from attack.
Religion
In 1875, 11 appointments were made for two weeks' work. Services would be held alternately at school house mentioned: Galords (later known as Hoy School east of Danbury), Grange Hall about 2 miles northeast of Mapleton, Grant, Kennebec, Arcola (Turin), Wiley, Cutter, Belvedere, Moorheads (Ida Grove), and Putneys. On October 1, 1876, class leaders were appointed for the circuit, and they were to hold services at the different points. Leaders were from Belvedere, Soldier, Crab Settlement, Arcola Days Mill, Grant, Center Township, Moorhead, Kennebec Town, Mapleton Township, Ida County, and Liston Town in Woodbury County. Meetings were held then every other Sunday.
The first Catholic missionary to visit Sioux City and surrounding areas was Father De Smet. He came up the Missouri River from St. Louis in 1839, and he was the first priest to say Mass in Northwest Iowa. There actually are no records of it, but from bits of information here and there, it was thought Fr. De Smet offered that first Mass in the cabin of Theophile Bruguiere. Fr. Christian Hoecken S.J., a fellow missionary of Fr. De Smet, came to this area in 1850. He kept records that were preserved, It was on his visit in 1850 that he baptized several children of Theophile Bruguiere and his Sioux wives, Blazing Cloud and Dawn. The record of Fr. Hoecken of St. Louis said the following: "On the great river of the Sioux, November 11, the following have been baptized:
These were children born in the Indian settlement on the Theophile Bruguiere farm. French fur traders had come from Canada, and many of them married Indian women. They had been married by Indian marriage ceremony, and some of the men had more than one wife which was an Indian custom. These families of the Sioux Nation wanted Fr. Hoecken to establish a mission at their settlement, and they offered to help financially. One man offered $300 a year if he would establish a mission and school as he wanted his children educated. Fr. Hoecken returned to St. Louis and pleaded with his superior to establish a mission in the Sioux nation.
Fr. Hoecken and Fr. De Smet set out for the Upper Missouri again June 7, 1851. While making this trip up the Missouri in steam boat, cholera broke out aboard. Fr. Hoecken cared for others aboard, and he took the disease and died of it. He was 43 years old. His burial was performed on the banks of the Missouri River on June 19, 1851, with all the ceremonies of the Catholic church. He was buried in a thick wooden coffin which was tarred within. Approximately 100 persons assisted in his burial.
The first mission to be established in the area was at Jackson, NE, and it was called St. John's, later St. Patrick's. Fr. Meremiah Tracey was put in charge. Sioux City was a mission to St. John's a number of years. A priest from Jackson visited Sioux City and said Mass in various places. First settlers in Sioux City were mostly Irish and of Catholic faith. They decided on June 27, 1862, to build a church of their own. They bought their first property for $25. The men cut timber on the Nebraska side of the river and floated the logs to a sawmill at the mouth of Perry Creek. The church received just half the logs, and the men cutting demanded the other half.
Fr. John Curtis was the first resident priest at Sioux City in 1870, but he had visited Sioux City, too, while it was a mission. Frs. Gunn, Hayes and McNulty followed Fr. Curtis. Fr. Lenihan was appointed resident priest of Sioux City in 1872, and Fr. Baron was his assistant. These two priests visited this area, and they were influential in getting a church built in this area. They traveled back and forth to Sioux City by stagecoach and then visited Catholic homes in Maple and Soldier valleys either by horseback or with team and buggy. Mass was said in the homes until a church was built n 1881. Fr. Baron purchased a Catholic cemetery, St. Patrick's in 1878 before Danbury had a church or resident priest.
United Brethren ministers also visited this region.
The Women's Work
The women, besides doing the housework and caring for the family, worked in the fields to help plant the crops, put up the hay, kept the garden clean, and helped harvest crops in the fall. To wash, she had to carry all water from the creek or well, and she washed all clothes on the wash board. The gardens were large as they raised enough vegetables to keep the family through the winter. Many vegetables were stored in root cellars. Corn was cut from the cob and dried. Cabbage was made into kraut in the fall, and each family would make at least a 50 gallon barrel of kraut. Pickles were salted, and later in the winter they would be freshened out with clear water and then placed in a pickling solution. They had to bake bread often as all baking was done in the home. Wild fruits were gathered during the summer - wild grapes, plums, raspberries, and gooseberries - and they were either dried or made into jams and jellies. During the winter months several head of hogs were butchered, and the meat was preserved in several ways, either by salting down, frying down, smoking, etc. Cornbread was a popular food. Every family raised a patch of sugar cane and made some sorghum. Most of the settlers did not have the money to buy sugar to preserve jam and jelly, so sorghum was used on bread and cornbread. Honey and nuts were often gathered in the fall. Each settler had a cow or two, and the women made butter and cheese. There were no separators. The milk was strained, then poured into crocks, and when the cream came to the top, it was ladled off. The can of cream was often hung in the well so it would be cool when the women of the house wanted to churn. Potatoes, butter and eggs were often used as barter at the stores. The women, too, usually split the wood and carried it into the home.
Entertainment
Habana, the first country school, was the entertainment center from 1864 to 1872. Prayer meetings, spelling bees, debates, box socials, etc. were held there. These first settlers always held a dance upon completion of a barn or larger building. Dances were also held in homes. There was always someone with a violin or accordion to play at the dances. Ice skating was popular during the winters. The many small lakes and the Maple River were popular as skating rinks. Women had quilting bees. Square dancing was the most popular dance then. The men and boys liked to hunt and trap. The young boys had a "swimming hole" on the Maple River. They also liked to play baseball and did so by 1880.
The Habana School near Listonville was the center for all debated from 1867 to 1872. In 1872 the Maple Valley school was built in Listonville, and debates were held there. The club was known as Hesperian Debate Club, and two prominent young men who first lived near Mapleton and later moved to Danbury were members of the club, and they helped to write a history telling of the Maple Valley and its growth from 1867 to 1871. These young men debated about the subject confronting our nation. Joseph Shoup and Joseph Welte were two debaters from Danbury by 1890.
The Mapleton Milestone said the following about the formation of this club: "A permanent debate club in Maple Township, Monona County was first mentioned by Q.A. Wooster and discussed by William Smith, George N. Castle, A.D. Balke, D.A. Hall, George Dedrick, and C.H. Lee on the evening of December 13, 1871. Q.A. Wooster was appointed a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws. These men met at the Priester School (near Lewis Iddings farm) on December 3, 1871, to organize the debate club, and the two Danbury men, William Smith and George N. Castle helped to organize the Hesperian Society and also helped to write The History of Maple township from years 1854-1871. They were members of the Debating Club also. The men met again on December 17th, and Q.A. Wooster made the motion that George Nicholas Castle be made the president, pro-tem. The meeting was called to order by Mr. Castle and the following officers were elected: William Smith as president, D.A. Smith as vice president, Charley H. Lee as secretary, and Q.A. Wooster as treasurer. The first Mapleton club wrote a very interesting history of Maple Township, covering years 1854-1871. Maple Township during those years included both Maple and Cooper Townships in Monona County, and since Cooper borders LIston Township in Woodbury County and we are also in the Maple Valley, the facts revealed in the history are quite interesting.
History of Maple Township 1854-1871 from Mapleton Milestones
Beautiful is the location of this township, the Maple River flowing through its center, and from this fine stream that the township derived its name. The level and fertile bottom lands lying on each side of this stream and not surpassed by any in United States. Away from the bottom of the township is somewhat broken, but everywhere nature has dealt out fairly with its beauty, and no wonder the Red Man sadly left the Maple Valley and its hunting grounds to be forever banished from its glorious view. Timber in general is scarce although we find some groves in some parts of the township. The varieties are Oak, Elm, Hickory, Linn, and Soft Maple. Water for man and beast is in abundance, and the climate is healthy.
Up to the year 1855, no white man had made any settlement in what is now Maple Township, until the first day of August that year when William H. Wilsey and family arrived and pitched their tent on the piece of ground on which they now live, and amidst all the dangers and hardships of pioneer life, commenced to lay the foundation of their future home. But it seems Maple Township was the destination of others, and their arrival no doubt gladdened the hearts of Mr. and Mrs. Wilsey and family. Among them were William McCleerey, Thomas Maynard, and Esom Lee, all of whom are residing here today. The hardships that those early settlers had to endure are hardly imaginable. Imagine, dear readers, the inconveniences and dangers those pioneers were exposed to. Indians were traveling the country in every direction, and whoever heard of their cruelty and depredations stood in constant fear of every imaginable object that would present itself to their view.
History of Maple Township 1854-1871 from Mapleton Milestones
The nearest settlements at this time were Smithland in Woodbury County and Belvidere in this county, the former 7 miles distant and the latter 14 miles. But quite different was the distance for those early settlers to procure bread stuff, an article they could not do without. Imagine, dear reader, going to Panora to the mill, a distance of 60 miles. Here is an act that shows determination and fortitude of the early settlers.
The first house was built by Mr. Wilsey, and it still stands as an emblem of pioneer life. With a will, those early settlers went to work, broke up prairie, built homes, and provided themselves for the coming winter. William McCleerey sowed wheat on some of his breaking, but owing to the dry weather, it turned out to be almost a failure. Courage seemed to be the watchword, and if you fail, try, try again. The year 1856 closed with no incidents worth mentioning, excepting those duties which were required by everyone, with an occasional hunt by which the early settlers provided themselves with meat, and as game in those days was plentiful, no doubt all got the usual amount. Winter passes and spring comes, and with it the monotony of indoor life and a variety of duties inside and out, new and old, now present themselves. Wheat was sowed by William McCleerey again, which owing to a good season turned out to be a fair crop, and it was threshed or tramped out with oxen as there were no horses then in the settlement.
The full organization of the township was perfected November 1856, and the first election was held at the home of Mr. Wilsey. The number of votes cast was 12. James Buchanan, the Democratic president, had a good majority. Township officers elected were James Scott, Justice of Peace; William H. Wilsey, Assessor; Hart Warren Clerk, Benjamin Davis, David Harries, and J.C. Melton, Trustees; and William Wilsey, Supervisor.
A schoolhouse was built by Mr. Wilsey for which he was awarded the sum of $80, but it was scarcely finished before it was destroyed by fire. School was first held in the home of Mr. Wilsey, and Miss Sarah Beatley was teacher in the year 1858, and the next teacher was Miss Sarah Porter at the home of J.C. Melton. The first mail route was established in 1857, running from Panora in Guthrie County to Sioux City in Woodbury County, making a stoppage at Mapleton. The first reaper was owned by Mr. Wilsey, and the first threshing machine by Theodore Boslaugh and John Beatley, and the same machine or remnants can be seen at the residence of S. Heisler. The first marriage was Mr. Hamlin to Miss Sarah Beatley, daughter of James Beatley. The first birth in the township was the son of Esom and Elizabeth Lee. The first death was the son of Mr. Warren who was buried on the Wilsey farm, and this piece of ground has since been used as a burial ground. The first litigation in the township was between Mr. Kellogg, plaintiff, and Mr. Wilsey, defendant, before James Scot Esq. and the case was decided in favor of the defendant.
An interesting incident occurred during the winter of 1857-58 which shows the true friendship which the settlers had toward one another. It seems that winter set in quite severely and with an unusual amount of heavy snow which threatened to stop all communication between each other. Mr. Warren and family resided on which has been since the French Place, now owned by John C. Priester. Mr. Wilsey, Henry and Abe Carter and David Harries became alarmed about the Warrens as there was some sickness in the family, so set out at once to reconnoiter. Finding no Indians or wild beasts to intercept their progress, they finally reached their journey's end. They found the home and inmates covered with a mountain of snow. By strong efforts they finally succeeded in entering and found the inmates were still alive. As it was impossible for a team to get there to take Mrs. Warren who was ill to Mr. Wilsey's house where it was warm, they procured a hand sleigh, put the bedding and Mrs. Warren thereon, and, fixing a rope by which to pull, they, with their united efforts, finally reached Mapleton where they deposited their burden in Mr. Wilsey's house.
In the year 1859 the population of Maple township amounted to 23 voters . Improvements were rapidly pushed forward, among which was the building of a new schoolhouse to replace the one burned down. Mr. Wilsey took the contract for $250. According to assessments, the value of real estate amounted to $4,806, and that of personal property was $3,187. Others who came to the settlement on Mr. Wilsey's farm were John Beery, John Heisler and brother Mr. French, and Mr. W.L. Ring. At the general election the following township officers were elected: J.R. Boslaugh, Justice of the Peace; Theodore Boslaugh, Constable; S.J. Colby, William McCleerey and J.R. Boslaugh, Trustees; J.C. Melton, Road Supervisor; and John A. Heisler was appointed Clerk. When Center Township was carved from Maple Township in 1874, John R. Boslaugh became the supervisor in Center Township, and William R. Ring was supervisor in Maple Township, Monona County.
It should perhaps be necessary to show you when the first road was laid out in Maple Township. At the December term of county court, 1855, a petition was presented for a road commencing at Ashton via Belvidere, thence up the Maple to the Ida County line in a direction to intercept the state road running from Fort Dodge to Smithland. This was acted upon by the appointment of Eli Carr as commissioner with instructions to report at the next April term, but when he failed to do so at a special meeting called on the 26th of June, Joseph Dungen was appointed in Carr's place with instruction to report in July. In the August term, the report on Road No. 3 was recorded as Joseph Dungen had plotted. The road started at Little Sioux, Harrison County rather than at Ashton. This was the first established road in Maple Township and the third road for Monona County. The next road for which there is a record was March 5, 1858, two petitions were presented for roads, one from Smithland to strike the east side of the county line toward Denison, signed by John Meeker, and the other petition for a road to run through Mapleton, and it was signed by August Beatley and others. B.D. Hollbrook was appointed commissioner on both roads. There were no other roads established in the township until 1865, when J.P.D. Day acted as commissioner on the east side of the river. Other roads have since been established, so now we have 40 miles of road which required 9 bridges that are or should be 25' long.
Maple Township with nearly all western localities has had it its share of paper towns. The first on the list was Mapleton which was set apart to be held and used as a townsite on the 13th day of July, 1857, and located on the southwest quarter of the northeast quarter of Sec. 14, and on the northeast quarter of Sec. 23, Twp. 85, Range 43 (William H. Wilsey farm). This town prospered for a while to the extent of 3 or 4 houses. Soon there came a formidable rival in the shape of another city claiming a share of the business. For, on the 27th day of July, 1857, St. George was proclaimed the metropolis of the township. These two city enterprises are said to have caused no little animosity between their prospective proprietors which at different times exhibited itself outwardly. But these days of city life are over, and neither one as yet is the capital of the nation, and it confidentially whispered that New York and Philadelphia have nothing to fear on account of their commercial and manufacturing interests. William H. Wilsey was the founder of Mapleton, and is now, 1871, the proprietor. Theodore Kellogg, the founder of St. George, has long since sought out other fields of his talents. On the 4th of September, 1865, St. George was vacated by deed of Mr. Wilsey and also part of Mapleton. The former now makes a good grain field.
The votes cast in 1861 were 28, and the value of real estate amounted to $41,083.75 and that of personal property to $4,998 making a total of $46,171. The amount paid for teachers was 60.75 More new additions were made to the settlement, for we find in the Fall election of 1862 the votes amounted to 33, and $64 was paid for school teaching. During the years 1863 and 1864 emigration was at a standstill, or rather on a decline, for we find for both of these years 30 votes were cast. Schools were in progress for we find $60 was paid in 1863 and $141 in 1864 for teachers. Great credit is due to the school officers of the township for their attention to the interests of education.
It is still within the memories of all readers that during those years of the Civil War when war was still in progress and drafting of more men was necessary, and as it fell to the lot of some of our citizens to go, they, like true Americans, responded to the call. From records we find that no additions in regard to settlers were made. Real estate was on the decline, land being assessed from $2.50 to $3.00 an acre, personal property arising to $13,799 and real estate being valued at $35,702. The steady increase of personal property shows that the township possessed an industrious and well-to-do people, and the principle part of a new country to perform was not neglected inasmuch as $250.50 was paid for teaching school.
Changes such as school districts, road districts, and religious organizations are before us. Since the organization of Center Township at the Fall election in 1864, but 25 votes were cast. Q.A. Wooster was elected Justice of the Peace. Changes were also made in mail matters. The mail now came from Onawa to Mapleton twice a week. Two religious organizations were now formed in he township, Methodist and Baptists. The first sermon preached in the township was by Rev. Havens of the Methodist faith with a class of 7 members in 1860. In the he year 1866 Rev. James Patrick commenced his labors here in the Baptist faith and organized a church called Maple Valley Baptist Church. At that time seven members constituted the church here, and the first man baptized was now the deceased Louis N. Castle. The society at the present tie is quite large, and since its organization procured suitable grounds for a church and it is hoped it will be built at no distant date. In the year 1869 another effort was made to establish a Methodist church by the Rev. Hayworth who was soon followed by Rev. Woodworth who organized the church on a firm basis and labored during his stay with energy. The first Sunday School held in the township was of Methodist faith, and superintended by Mrs. Briggs in the residence of James Scott. The next one was of Baptist faith, and superintended by David Chapman and Edward Davis.
During the year 1867 the township made rapid progress in population and improvements, the vote now numbers 33. This shows it to be a plain fact the attractions to Maple Township were superior to others on account of its rapid increase. The principle feature was the fine lands subject to homestead entry. A new schoolhouse was built in Subdistrict No. 3 at the cost of $450, and $396 was paid to teachers. A calm is always followed by a storm, so we find it in Maple Township. Difficulties arose of considerable proportions among some of the citizens, and recourse to the law was taken, but through the energy and impartial decision of the presiding judge, R.A. Wooster, all difficulties were settled.
Providence had smiled on the town during these years, and finding circumstances somewhat easier, we see good frame houses and barns where before the log hut and dirt roofed dug-out presented itself in all its glory. Horses took the place of oxen, and thimble skein wagons the place of old fashioned linchpin sort. This is sufficient to show that by good management and industry these early settlers had established themselves in such a way that you look froward to the future with brighter hopes and anticipation.
History of Maple Township 1854-1871 from Mapleton Milestones
It is still within the memories of all readers that during those years of the Civil War when war was still in progress and drafting of more men was necessary, and as it fell to the lot of some of our citizens to go, they, like true Americans, responded to the call. From records we find that no additions in regard to settlers were made. Real estate was on the decline, land being assessed from $2.50 to $3.00 an acre, personal property arising to $13,799 and real estate being valued at $35,702. The steady increase of personal property shows that the township possessed an industrious and well-to-do people, and the principle part of a new country to perform was not neglected inasmuch as $250.50 was paid for teaching school.
Changes such as school districts, road districts, and religious organizations are before us. Since the organization of Center Township at the Fall election in 1864, but 25 votes were cast. Q.A. Wooster was elected Justice of the Peace. Changes were also made in mail matters. The mail now came from Onawa to Mapleton twice a week. Two religious organizations were now formed in the township, Methodist and Baptists. The first sermon preached in the township was by Rev. Havens of the Methodist faith with a class of 7 members in 1860. In the year 1866 Rev. James Patrick commenced his labors here in the Baptist faith and organized a church called Maple Valley Baptist Church. At that time seven members constituted the church here, and the first man baptized was now the deceased Louis N. Castle. The society at the present time is quite large, and since its organization procured suitable grounds for a church and it is hoped it will be built at no distant date. In the year 1869 another effort was made to establish a Methodist church by the Rev. Hayworth who was soon followed by Rev. Woodworth who organized the church on a firm basis and labored during his stay with energy. The first Sunday School held in the township was of Methodist faith, and superintended by Mrs. Briggs in the residence of James Scott. The next one was of Baptist faith, and superintended by David Chapman and Edward Davis.
During the year 1867 the township made rapid progress in population and improvements, the vote now numbers 33. This shows it to be a plain fact the attractions to Maple Township were superior to others on account of its rapid increase. The principle feature was the fine lands subject to homestead entry. A new schoolhouse was built in Subdistrict No. 3 at the cost of $450, and $396 was paid to teachers. A calm is always followed by a storm, so we find it in Maple Township. Difficulties arose of considerable proportions among some of the citizens, and recourse to the law was taken, but through the energy and impartial decision of the presiding judge, R.A. Wooster, all difficulties were settled.
Providence had smiled on the town during these years, and finding circumstances somewhat easier, we see good frame houses and barns where before the log hut and dirt roofed dug-out presented itself in all its glory. Horses took the place of oxen, and thimble skein wagons the place of old fashioned linchpin sort. This is sufficient to show that by good management and industry these early settlers had established themselves in such a way that you look forward to the future with brighter hopes and anticipation.
Personal property in 1868 amounted to $9,277 and real estate to $75,730.50, a total of $85,007.50 with land being assessed at $4 to $5 an acre. In 1868 total votes increased to 43, and the cry was ÒStill they come.Ó Farmers put in their crops, and, the season being favorable, wheat and oats never looked better or corn never more promising. Soon these promising fields took on a change for grasshoppers were flying in all directions and, without any preliminaries, took possession of anything that came in their way. Soon the look of waving fields of grain and corn changed to a dark mass of living grasshoppers. Considerable damage was done to the farmers in this township, and none felt it more than the latest settlers for on their crops laid their main dependence. None, however starved as there was enough left for their maintenance of all families. In the following year land was assessed from $5 to $8 an acre, and $451 was paid to teachers.
In 1869 artificial groves of Cottonwood and Maple were seen spreading their foliage where once nothing but prairie grass decorated the landscape. Apple trees were planted in considerable numbers, but no definite result had been reached in regard to their culture. Farms under cultivation, ranging in size from 40, 60, 80, 100 to 300 acres, and it is the opinion of the writer that the best farmers of the township are Samuel and John Heisler, and the largest Wm. H. Wilsey. Machinery of all descriptions is now in use. A new schoolhouse was built in Sub-District No. 2 for the sum of $465, and $618 was paid out for teachers. The value of entered land according to assessment amounted to $26,210, but this did not include the railroad lands on account of their not paying taxes which they ought to have paid since coming in possession of the land. The subject of railroads had been one of much dissatisfaction among the people of Maple Township and along the valley. Long Ago the odd numbered sections of land were granted to the railroad, and up to the year 1865 it was supposed that a road would soon be built along the valley. But hope so long deferred made the heart sick, and such had been the case of the people along the Maple Valley. Justice would say we should have a road. The government has made the land grant, the railroad company has got it, and it has retarded settlement. But justice doesn't come as soon as it ought, or else the railroad company would have been obliged to long ago fulfilled their part of the contract. In 1870 a company was formed, the Maple Valley Railroad Company, who proposed to build a road from the Iowa Falls and Sioux City road to the Sioux City and Pacific. They asked for help by way of a tax from the townships along the line. Some of the townships voted a 5% tax, including Maple. The prospects now, 1871, is that they will commence work on the road this coming summer, and that such may be the case is earnestly hoped for by nearly all the people in the township.
Now in 1870 we cast a look on the past. When we look at the handful of early pioneers and see how they toiled and labored and the difficulties they had to contend with, we can scarcely think they are the hale and hearty pioneers we see today. Our roads are in specific order, and suitable bridges span the streams. The first bridge built in the township for which any public funds were drawn was across the Maple at Mapleton and for which the county ordered paid to William H. Wilsey $230 out of the Swamp Land Fund. In 1859 five bridges crossing the small streams in the township were ordered built. The contracts were awarded to John A. Heisler, Aaron McCleerey and others; the price ranging from $200 to $350 to be paid out of the Swamp Fund. In 1869 after a hard fought battle, an appropriation was secured from the county for an iron bridge with a 40' span and end work set in piles, ordered to be built across the Maple River near the old and first bridge site. The new steel bridge built about 1870 was built under the supervision of William L. Ring, County Bridge Agent. William Ring, a resident of the township, took pride in the township's prosperity, spared no pains, and a first class bridge was erected. This was completed in 1870, and the bridge was opened for travel on January 1, 1871. It is nearly 300' long, set in good oak piles, high enough above the high water mark, and made a good crossing at any stage of water. Its whole cost was $2,200 of which the township appropriated $300. It was the longest and best built bridge in the county. Farmers living up the valley accommodated this bridge.
Explanation: Mapleton had two bridges across the Maple at one time, a wooden one built for stagecoach crossing that went toward Smithland, and a new steel bridge for the settlers living along the valley toward Danbury.
Population in 1870 amounted to 335 of which 70 were legal voters. In 1871 there were 151 voters. Now, dear readers, I have given you some facts up to March 3, 1871. Let us cast a view upon the past and compare it with the present. Travel along our highways and view the fine rolling farms, the comfortable houses, the barns, the sheds, the artificial groves that will plainly show you that comfort and prosperity are within. Less pass by on a fine summer day. We see the herds of cattle and horses enjoying the luxuries which nature has provided for them for which Maple Township has no equal, and where but a short time ago nothing but droves of deer and elk roamed. This has been accomplished by the sturdy and industrious population of the township. Great credit is due to the early pioneers for which we, the Hesperian Club, insert their name, nativity and age in honor of the settlement of Maple Township.
CHAPTER V
The Coming of the Railroad - Danbury
Fourth Thomas continued in his letter: "Sometimes preceding the building of the railroad, the Maple River Valley Co. sent a man into this territory to buy land for the right-of-way for the railroad. He found the settlers reluctant to sell, and they consequently placed a very high price on their land. When the railroad representative talked of buying a townsite, no on one even seemed interested. Finally, Grandfather told the man he wanted to talk to him. He offered the railroad land for the townsite free of charge under certain conditions. His terms were that after the town was platted, the Railroad Co. would have to deed corner lots back to him every other lot in the First Addition of Danbury including corner lots when they came in order. He wanted this agreement as the Cross Roads Store he had built in 1873 was in the middle of the area the railroad was to get, and he wanted to be sure the town would be platted around the corner lot on which the Cross Roads store was built. The generosity of Dan Thomas prompted the railroad to name the town and railroad station after him as Dan Thomas had insisted when he made the agreement that a depot should be built at the edge of the town. The depot was built by the Maple River Valley Co. The name Danbury was decided upon as the name of the community: Dan, the first part of the name Dan Thomas, and bury, the last part from the name of the county, Woodbury."
A branch line of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad was to be built from Carroll to Onawa, Iowa. When completed, towns along this line would have an outlet to both east and west markets. The building of the branch line started in early 1871 at Carroll, and each year the trackage was extended farther. The farmers living along the line worked with the railroad crews furnishing horses and hauling dirt with slips. The Railroad Co. owned hundreds of horses and mules and much equipment, but extra help was always appreciated. Women along the line often cooked for the men, often feeding as many as 30 men. The railroad bridges were built of wood as the railroad was prepared.
Francis O'Neill, who later became proprietor of the Farmers Home Hotel in Mapleton, his wife and three daughters fed many of these railroad workers. They erected a large frame building at Battle Creek some time before the workers arrived in that area. The building had four compartments. The dining room was an extra large room with a large table extending the length of the room. Stationary benches were built for seating along the sides of the table.
CHAPTER V
The Coming of the Railroad - Danbury
Another large room served as the sleeping room for the men, and it had built-in bunks, one above the other, along the outside walls. There was also a kitchen and one large bedroom for the O'Neill family. They could not accommodate all the men, so many slept in tents and shanties. When the trackage was extended past Battle Creek, the O'Neills tore down their building and re-erected it at Mapleton so as to accommodate the workers again as they worked that way. It took an excessive amount of water and feed for the horses and mules. Living conditions were unsanitary around a railroad camp, as the manure piles created many flies. In many places the terrain was low and there were sloughs which were infested with mosquitoes.
The trackage no doubt was nearing our community by 1876, and it was completed at Mapleton by November of 1877. Even though the plans were made to extend the trackage to Onawa, the railroad company changed its plans. They decided to build a roundhouse at Mapleton. The train then could come from Carroll to Mapleton where it would turn around and return to Carroll. This did benefit quite a few towns, but those towns below Mapleton were left without railroad accommodations entirely, and Danbury and other towns along the line were still without an outlet to the west except for stage coach. This meant all livestock would have to be shipped to Chicago. Settlers were hoping the railroad would go on to Onawa. The Sioux City and Pacific Railroad was already in operation there, and any produce shipped from here could be taken to Sioux City on that line. The first train came through Danbury on November 12, 1877, and John Allen was Danbury's first depot agent.
There were no passenger or baggage cars on the first trains. One passenger car was added at the rear of the freight train, and persons wanting to travel would ride in it. Baggage was placed at one end of the passenger car. Railroads were being built everywhere, and the demand was more than the supply. There was extra track siding built at Danbury for ordered freight cars. There usually were 10 to 15 cars on track. The years following 1877 were busy years for the train, and each family would have from 2 to 3 loaded freight cars. These families came from Illinois, Indiana, and eastern Iowa mostly. Usually the father and his eldest son would ride in the freight car to care for the livestock. Two persons could ride free of charge that way. The mother and the other children rode in the passenger car behind the freight, and they paid fare.
Dan Thomas and others along the line complained to the railroad that they had not lived up to their commitments in the years following 1877. Some of the Dan Thomas family left here in early 1880s, but Dan Thomas said he wold not leave until the railroad was finished to Onawa. The Northwestern Railroad finally commenced negotiations April 12, 1886. Mr. D.M. Waterman was sent to purchase necessary land on which to build the extension of the Maple valley branch. A survey was at once made and early in May 1886, the contract for the laying of the road bed was let to a corporation, the Maple Valley Railroad Company. Work was commenced and pushed with energy. The first rail was laid at Mapleton May 31, 1886, and Mark Wrigley of The Mapleton Press bolted the first new rails to the old trackage. Work commenced at Onawa on July 25th. The last rail was laid and the last spike driven on September 21, 1886. Regular trains were put on October 1, 1886, and now all towns along the line would have connections with new markets. New full passenger trains were put on the line, and they ran from Carroll to Sioux City and back to Carroll the same day. The stage coach which was still in operation to Sioux City could now be discontinued.
The Platting of Danbury
The town was platted a few days before the arrival of the first train, November 1, 1877. It was platted by Dan and Mary Thomas and Blair Town and Lot Co. on Section 27, Township 86 and Range 42. The north and south streets were named Thomas St. because the Dan Thomas home was at the north end of that street; Main St.; Liston St. named after the township; and East St. because it was on the east part of the town. The streets running east and west were called First, Second, Third and Fourth. Thomas and Main Street extended farther north than they do today as the Thomas' expected the town to grow farther north rather than spread east and west as it did. The streets were platted around the Cross Roads Store. The store, Lot Koker's Blacksmith Shop, and a saloon or two were the only business places. The depot was built in 1877.
The town began to grow immediately after the coming of the railroad. Melvin Chapman had married the oldest daughter of Dan Thomas, Lovina in 1875. Dan persuaded Melvin to build a hotel as there would be many travelers coming into the town, and they would want board and lodging. Melvin started to build the hotel the next Spring, and he and Lovina began to operate it as soon as it was finished. This hotel was built on the present Barry Garage lot. Melvin and Lovina's second child was born in that hotel in November 1879. Soon after the birth of the baby they sold the hotel to George Nicholas Castle who moved to Danbury from Maple Township, Monona County after the death of three sons due to Diptheria. Nick Castle added a livery to his hotel, and he met all trains with his surrey and team to haul persons wanting hotel accommodations and their luggage to his hotel. The Castles did a resounding business at Castle House a number of years. Elmira Castle, Nick's wife was noted for her good cooking, and the dining room of the hotel was always filled to capacity. Nick Castle also rented rigs and horses to others. Mr. Castle had much civic pride, and he served in many capacities when our town was very young. He always said that he thought he had planted more trees in our town than anyone. The Castles had children Mack, Josephine and William besides the three older sons who died of Diptheria. William was born in Danbury, but he died when just a small child. These four boys were all buried in the Heisler Cemetery. The Castles left Danbury when Mack was either in 11th or 12th grade, 1904, and they moved to Bremerton, Washington. They sold out to William Siebold.
The Platting of Danbury
Richard Henry Loucks, Danbury's first druggist came in 1878. He built a two-story wooden structure with balcony on Main St. The Loucks family lived in the upstairs rooms for a number of years. Mr. Loucks bought a half-block (Crilly home lot) and built a new home there soon after the family came to Danbury. The second story of the drug store was then used as dress making rooms by the Parks sisters, May and Olive. The first Danbury telephone was installed in Loucks' Drug Store, year 1890. Mr. Loucks, too, had many public offices, was notary public, and was always interested in the advancement of the town. Richard Loucks married Margie Ann Buchanen. They had three children, Alice, Grace, and Richard Jr. Alice married Christian N. Jepson, a young lawyer who came to Danbury to practice in October 1896. Mr. Jepson practiced in Danbury from 1894 to 1898. He and his wife then moved to Sioux City. The Henry Loucks family moved to Sioux City in 1910. Mr. Loucks sold out when his store was purchased as a new bank, the Danbury Trust and Savings Bank was to be built on that corner. Godfrey Durst bought the lot to the south of the drug store, and he built a new brick drug store. The Loucks house was sold to John Crilly. He had been here for 32 years.
Dr. J.M. Condron was a veterinarian who practiced on humans as well as animals. He came in 1878.
Deitrick "David" Tangeman was born in Hanover, Germany in 1822. He came to America with his parents when he was 10 years old. His parents farmed in Auglaize Co., Ohio. David started out on his own when 19 years old. He farmed and then became a miller. He married Minnie Wheeler in Garnavilla, Iowa. In 1878 he sold his interest in the mill and moved to Crawford Co., Soldier Twp. where he purchased a farm. After a season of farming, he traded the farm for a small lumber yard and property along the tracks west of what was later the Maple Valley Lumber Yard. He also built a small elevator on that property, and he began to buy and sell grain. He later discontinued these two small businesses and sold the property to Godfrey Durst, Sr. In 1903 he and Ben Santee bought the W.F. Seibold Elevator, and David Tangeman and sons operated the elevator until 1910. The elevator was then sold to Michael Burke on March 10, 1910. David and Minnie had four children, Louisa, Fred, August, and Anna. David married a second time, and from this marriage he had five children, Edward (Ed was the town dray and ice man for many years), Ellsford (Elzie was a livestock dealer and ran the Tie Barn), Mahala (Mrs. Ace Nicholls), Minnie (Mrs. Mark Durst) and Ethel. Ace Nicholls managed the F.H. Hancock Elevator, and Mark Durst helped his father, Godfrey Durst at the mill.
Samuel Griffith came in 1878. He built a furniture store on the east side of Main St. He also made and sold coffins. He sold this business to W.B. Booher in 1883 as he was interested in making bricks and working as a carpenter. He built the first Catholic church in Danbury on Thomas St. He made the brick and laid the foundation for the second St. Patrick's Church. He made the brick and built the W.B. Booher home at a cost of $4,000 (present Mel Pithan home). He made the brick for many of the foundations in our first homes and also the chimneys.
William Cook came to Danbury in 1879. He built a hardware store north of Dan Thomas' store. Andrew Lynch became his partner in 1881. They sold farm implements and hardware. They had a loading dock on the front of the store. Andrew Lynch married Mary Penny, and they had two small children when Mary died. Andrew brought the children to their grandparents, William Penny and wife who farmed in Ida County. Children were Nellie (Mrs. James Sexton Goodburn) and brother, Charley Lynch. William Cook sold his half of business to J.F. Means, and the business was then known as Lynch and Means. They later dissolved the partnership and sold the business again.
John W. Herrington built a livery on the corner of Liston and 2nd Streets in 1878. L.D. or Levi Herrington, who had just come to this area, managed the livery. Benjamin Smith, stage coach driver, kept his horses and stage at this livery. The hay loft of this livery was a favorite place for men having too much to drink as they often went there to sleep off a drunk. L.D. Herrington was on the first official family of Danbury. Levi married Elizabeth McGrath, and their children were Frances (Mrs. Jim O'Day), Grace (Mrs. Dan Sexton), Joe, John, and Agnes (Mrs. Antone Brown). Levi also ran a dray line (the Herrington Livery).
H.J. Peters, builder and contractor, built a two-story rooming house on the east side of Main Street where Henry Fitzpatrick Hardware was later built. He built St. Patrick's Church built in 1883 and also Danbury's first 11-grade public school in 1879.
The Dan Thomas Family 1879
Year 1879 the Thomas family had been here for 15 years. Ida, the second daughter of Dan Thomas, year 1873, when just 16, met Scott Denison at a dance in Thomas Hall. They fell in love and wanted to marry, but Mrs. Thomas was very much opposed to her daughter marrying so young. Scott was the son of Lewis and Melinda Denison. Scott and Ida eloped, and they left Danbury by stage. Their destination was Spangle, Washington, which is about 30 miles from Spokane. Married 1874.
Lovina Thomas, the oldest daughter, taught school for a year after finishing her schooling. She married Melvin Chapman, a school mate on December 12, 1875. Their first child, born on September 9, 1876, was named Danny after his grandfather. He died of Whooping Cough in January 1877 when only 4 months old. Melvin Chapman built Danbury's first hotel in 1878, and he and Lovina operated it until December 1879 when they sold it to Nick Castle. A second child, Gertrude Carrie was born in the hotel in November 1879 just previous to their selling the property. They left Danbury by train.
Frank Thomas, like his father, loved horses. Joe Welte said Dan Thomas had a prettier team of horses than any other farmer here. He took good care of his horses and showed a great deal of pride in them. Frank was 16 in 1879. His father gave him a pair of spotted mares which were the envy of many of the "young bloods" about town. The team was broken to ride or drive. He no doubt was interested in Lanie Bowser, a neighbor girl, at this time. Frank told the story about his father telling him to round up the livestock on the prairie as it was going to storm. Frank rode his horse. A bolt of lightning came down upon them, knocking both him and his horse to the ground. Both were unconscious, and Frank came to first and was very much concerned about his horse, but the horse soon recovered from the shock, too, and they went on about their chores.
In 1879 Alice was 13 and Charley 8. Ida, Frank and Alice had attended the Thomas School up on the hill, and Alice and Charlie attended the new public grade and high school after it was built in 1879.
Dan had improved his farm. He had built a large barn and corn crib. He planted rows of nut, fruit and shade trees which ran the breadth of his farm, north to south. Dan and his wife Mary Ann were beginning to have marital troubles at this time.
Dan Thomas, First Danbury Mayor 1879-1882
It is known for a fact that Dan Thomas was the first mayor, but there are conflicting stories as to the year he was elected. Woodbury and Plymouth County History said he was the first mayor elected after incorporation in 1882, but The Danbury Review said Joseph Shoup was the first mayor after incorporation. I believe the Danbury Review's report was going by what old timers said, but it stands to reason that with so many problems arising of civic nature such as churches being built, town wells to be dug, an public school to be built, trees to be planted, etc., that someone would have to take charge of these affairs. Even though the town was not incorporated, the town decided to hold its first election as there were so many official things to be done. This election was held either in 1878 or 1879, and officials would hold the positions until 1882. The town's first officers according to The Danbury Review:
| Mayor | Dan Thomas |
|---|---|
| Trustees (now council men) | |
| George N. Castle (Castle House) | |
| George W. Hoskins (Blacksmith) | |
| William Cook (Hardware and Implement) | |
| David Tangeman (Elevator) | |
| H.J. "Jacob" Peters (Builder and Contractor) | |
| Levi D. Herrington (Herrington Livery) | |
| Recorder | J.S. Shoup (Professor) |
In 1878 the town had no more than a half-dozen houses. The town had just been platted by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, and businessmen were arriving daily by train, all anxious to build a business establishment on Main Street. Dan Thomas, when he built the store in 1873, had dug a well on Main Street at the intersection of Second and Main, and it had served as a horse watering place and was also used by the public if they wished to obtain water. The town now was beginning to grow, and it needed more wells. They decided to use the well on the intersection as a storage for water in case of fire. They obtained a big tank, and they always managed to keep it fenced off and keep the tank running over practically, so if they needed water in case of fire, they had it. Another well was dug at the south end of Main Street, and this is where all the animals were watered. Travelers and settlers coming to town for supplies or townspeople who had livestock could water there. The businessmen obtained their water from a third well in Loucks' Park or the town park between Loucks' Drug Store and John Hart's Meat Shop. Tin cups always hung at his well, and anyone could secure a drink there. These wells remained in use until 1898.
Fire Department 1878 "Bucket Brigade"
Whenever the word "Fire" rang out, everyone got in motion. They dropped whatever they were doing and ran to the scene of the fire. There was an extra large pump handle at the tank on the intersection, and this handle would accommodate 6 or 8 men. They would start pumping immediately and keep it up until the fire was quelled. Everyone owned a few fire buckets, and they always laid handy to be picked up when the fire bell rang. A fire bucket had a pointed handle at the bottom of the pail, enabling the one who threw the water to throw it farther. A line of fire fighters in one line, stretching from the tank to the place of the fire, and a second row of women and children would line up beside them. The full buckets of water would pass down the line of fire fighters, and the empty would be returned to the tank by the women and children line. The last on the fire fighter line would toss the bucket of water on the fire. The buckets kept rotating. They very seldom put out a fire in this way, but they could wet down surrounding buildings, keeping them from burning.
Mayor Thomas and his trustees, before the completion of their term, filed with the Secretary of State on February 3, 1882, and then the town was incorporated.
Public School 1879
By 1879 the little Maple Valley School would no longer accommodate all the children who wanted to attend school as people were coming at too fast a rate. The town officials and the Danbury Public School Board worked on this new project together. Smithland had just finished building a new school, and Joseph Shoup was the school "master" there. They decided to build their school like Smithland's and also to hire Mr. Joseph Shoup to come here and help us get the school going. He came year 1880. A half block of ground was purchased from Dan Thomas and the Iowa Railroad Land Co. on the west side of Thomas St. between 2nd and 3rd (north end of block). Contractor H.J. Peters and Samuel Griffith were hired to build the school. The south end of that block was purchased a few years later for playground, etc. This school was fenced. School was just there two years when the tornado of 1883 destroyed parts of it. It was then rebuilt, the old part worked in with the new part. The building was 50'x60' dimension. It had 14' ceilings, and it was ventilated by double chimneys. It was a 2-story, the lower floor having two rooms, each room having a seating capacity of 50 persons. The upper story was all one room, and it could seat 100 people. The building was not modern. Each room had a blackboard on all sides. There were hall and ante-room with hooks for the children's wraps and hats. The grounds were fenced with a neat picket fence. Water was carried into the school in a bucket. Collapsible tin cups were used. At first only the first floor was used as a school, grades in one room, and high school in the other room. Prof. Shoup taught high school, and two sisters, Regina and Paulina Gambs from Smithland taught the grades. The school had a bell and belfry, and it was heated with heating stoves. The building had a full basement, and the second story was used for school functions, public functions, church services, etc. There were actually 16 grades then in the elementary. Students advanced by readers, and a student usually read 2 readers a year. If one could not keep up with the reading, you were held back a year. In 1879 when the school was built, there were only 3 grades in high school. It became a 4 year high school when the school was accredited. A few of Danbury's first teachers were Lizzie McConnell, Jessie Smith, Stella Ostrom, and Miss Strain. Mrs. Cora Herrington was janitor of the school many years. Each morning the first bell was run at 8:30 a.m., the last bell at 9:00 a.m. and a tardy bell at 9:05 a.m. There was a recess morning and afternoon for the first 8 grades. School was dismissed at 12:00 for the noon lunch, and school was dismissed in the afternoon at 4:00 p.m. Children from the country carried their lunch to school either in a paper sack or a syrup pail, and children from town and the teachers went home for dinner. They used the bell, too, for fire drills. The first class to graduate from 8th grade was in 1886.
Joseph Shoup was born in Freeport, PA, of parents Henry and Ann Jane McCain Shoup. In 1852 the Shoup family moved to Galesburg, IL, by wagon train, and his father farmed. Joseph grew up and graduated from Cherry Grove University near Albingdon, IL. On June 21 he enlisted for service in the Civil War, and he served until the end of the war. He bought a cotton plantation in Marengo Co., Alabama. In 1870 he went to Council Bluffs and was elected to an important position in the Council Bluffs school. He married Nettie E. Evans. After 3 years in Council Bluffs he taught at Belleview, NE, Omaha, and SMithland before he came to Danbury. The Shoups had 8 children, Lena (Mrs. Calvin Dix), Nona Glendenning, Joseph, Mittie, Gordina, George, Mattie and George. They lived in a small house on present Barney Mohrhauser lot. He served on many educational committees, was Danbury's first recorder, and he was mayor years 1882-1884. He was interested in the town getting a Methodist church, and he often preached the sermons for the Methodists before the church was built. He was a very learned man.
The planting of trees was a big project. Danbury was a vast prairie. Men, women and children all took part in planting trees. Some men made a living digging trees along the rivers and then selling them to the different towns. Nick Castle thought he planted more trees in the town than any other person.
A wooden sidewalk was built from the Maple Valley School to downtown area, 1873.
New Business Men After 1879
J. Welte General Store, 1881 - Jacob Welte built the second general store in Danbury. He came by train from Atkinson, IA, with his family. Joe Welte was 9 at that time. There were no more than 10 houses in the town, and none were for rent. The family lived at Castle House Hotel until Jacob built a small shack near the railroad tracks. After his house was built he bought a lot on the east side Main Street (present Schimmer Barber Shop). He built a two-story building with full basement. The first floor was the store, and the upper story was living quarters for his entire family. The building then was much longer than it is today, and the basement was used for storage of potatoes, kerosene, butter and the like.
Joe Welte, a son, worked for his father, and he told some interesting facts about stores. The general store sold everything. The owner opened his doors early in the morning, and his doors did not close until nightfall. They were open, too, on Sunday mornings, and the did not close until after 3 p.m. Stores then seldom stayed open after dark. After it darkened, the buildings then were lit with lamps and candles.
A summer house was built near the alley. The settlers brought live geese, ducks, chickens, etc. in exchange for supplies. Poultry was weighed, and the merchant paid by the pound. The Weltes butchered, picked and dressed the poultry in the summer house and sold the poultry locally or shipped it to Chicago in barrels. Crocks of butter were also brought for barter, more than the townspeople could consume. The excess butter was stored in the town cave, and when a large amount had accumulated, the butter was reworked, recolored, and repacked into ferkins (a thin wood container of the pound size). Joe welte said he could remember when he was a child writing Welte Dairy on each ferkin. They, at that time, shipped a carload of butter to Boston, Massachusetts. The first settlers never had money in their jeans. Some brought oats, wheat, corn, meat carcasses, potatoes, turnips, anything to exchange for groceries and supplies. These products were weighed on a scale south of the Dan Thomas Store. Coffee was sold in the bean and ground in the home. Salt, vinegar, apples, crackers, flour, sugar and other items came in barrels. Dried fruit and rice came in wooden boxes. Cloth was sold often by the bolt as large supplies of cloth were kept on hand as all clothing was homemade. The factories in the east started making clothing, but the settlers were slow to accept store bought clothing as they considered them inferior to homemade clothes. The cloth and clothing department was the "Dry Goods Dept." Shroud material was also sold by the yard at stores. A corpse then was wrapped in black cloth in preparation for burial.
John Holmes Ostrom came in 1880. He practiced law and sold real estate. He built a small office on the west side of Main Street. He married Lydia Korns. Mr. Ostrom took over the publishing of the Danbury newspaper twice and published with the help of his son and daughter. Children were Ernest, Carrie (Mrs. Charley Seibold), Stella (Mrs. Leslie Sheldon) and Elmer.
Drs. Bradley and McNerny were Danbury's first actually physicians. Dr. C.A. Bradley came the spring of 1880, and Dr. McNerny located here in 1881. Dr. McNerny was a very good doctor, but he was incompetent because of his drinking habits. He built an office on the east side of Main Street south of Jacob Welte's store. These first doctors made all country calls either on horseback or with a horse drawn vehicle. Joe Welte, when a young man, often drove the horses for the doctors making calls in the country. Settlers often brought the patient to town. In early 1880s David French, a settler along the Soldier River (Herb Teut farm), broke his leg. His neighbors improvised a stretcher, and six neighbors carried him to Dr. McNerny's office, about 7 1/2 miles. Four men could carry at a time, and 2 men alongside the stretcher. When a man carrying tired, one walking alongside the stretcher would take over. John O'Donnell, grandfather of Mrs. William Schimmer, was one of the men that carried Mr. French to Danbury, and after the leg was set, they carried him back home.
Patrick Kennedy came with his family in 1880. He and his wife, Mary Mahoney came here by stagecoach from Prospect Hill in Sioux City when there were no more than a dozen houses in the town. They had three small daughters, Mary (Mrs. Christian Le Duc), Ellen (Mrs. Pierre Keitges) and Lulu (Mrs. Ed Driscoll). There home was to the rear of Loucks Drug Store. Mass was often said in their home by Fr. baron when Danbury was still a mission and before the completion of a Catholic church. Patrick worked as a laborer in one of the lumber yards.
Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church
The Methodist church was organized in 1878 when Homer T. Dudley was minister. Danbury was still on the Arcola Circuit along with Mapleton and Battle Creek, etc. There was no resident minister, the minister visited the various towns and lived at each town a short period of time. Up to 1879 church services were held in the Galord School, Dan Thomas Hall, or the public school. A week of prayer meetings were held yearly to get new members and baptize those not baptized. A picnic was often held after a week of prayer at Schimmer Lake (Joe Slota farm). Everyone came in lumber wagons with filled lunch baskets. Baptismal services were held at the lake.
In 1879 Rev. Newell came as a circuit rider and held services at the various schools and other meeting places. In 1880 a division was made in the circuit, and Danbury was included in the Mapleton circuit, then called Mapleton-Danbury. Rev. Luce came in 1881, and it was decided that year that Danbury would build a house of worship for Methodists. Lots 4 and 5 on Block 2 on Liston Street were purchased from Dan and Mary Thomas for $1 on February 2, 1881. Two families known to help organize the church were Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gray and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Shoup. Mr. Shoup often preached the sermons at Danbury Public School when services were held there. The minister came only every other Sunday. Only the most western part of the church plus bell and belfry was built at this time. The church was dedicated February 1882. A Board of Trustees was elected at this time. The first minister to use the new church was Rev. James Torbet. He served both Danbury and Mapleton but lived in Mapleton from 1882-1885. Church was named Methodist Episcopal.
1878 St. Patrick's Cemetery and Organization of Danbury Catholic Church 1881
Reverend Baron was the pioneer priest that visited this area. He was the assistant of Father Lenihan who had been appointed priest of Sioux City in 1872. Father Baron said Mass in one of the settler's homes. Even before Danbury had a church, he purchased ground for a Catholic cemetery called St. Patrick's Cemetery. He paid $230 for the ground, and the first person to be buried there was Elizabeth Uhl, daughter of Kasper and Mary Uhl who lived in Monona County in 1878. Mary Rush was interred there in 1881; two children of James and Jane King in 1881; Patrick Kennedy, one of Danbury's first residents, in 1883; and in 1886 the father of Elizabeth Uhl was buried there.
Information regarding Danbury's first Catholic church was found in "Woodbury and Plymouth County History." It said, "After the entrance of the railroad into Liston Township, the Catholics who had come in with the new order of things, organized, and in 1881, although few in number and poor, actually raised funds among themselves, with a little assistance from some friends, Protestants as well as Catholics, enough to build the first building which cost about $2,500. These zealous Christians raised the funds without one dollar's assistance from church authorities. It was attended by Father Baron of Sioux City." Built 1881.
The church was built by Samuel Griffith, and he also made the bricks for the foundation and chimney. It was on the west side of Thomas Street at the north end of the block between first and second streets. It was given the name of St. Patrick's as those building the church were of Irish nationality. Father Baron had visited an Irish settlement along Soldier Valley in Crawford County for a number of years, and it was these Irish families that built the Catholic church with the help of a few families that lived nearer Danbury. These families were McGraths, O'Hares, Brays, Kellys, O'Donnells, O'Connors, Barretts, Pennys, and Houlihans. In Danbury area were Hayes, Kennedys, Weltes, Treibers, Gleasons, Driscolls, and Harrigans. The church was wooden, painted white, and was fair in size. There were tie racks along the north and east. Father Baron served as non-resident priest to this mission. He drove from Sioux City every other Sunday to say Mass.
Pearce Cemetery (Ida County)
Pearce Cemetery was on land now owned by Carl Brown on the hill above present Clem Wessling farm. The land in 1880s was owned by James Pearce. A number of early settlers were buried there.
Entertainment - July 4th
About year 1878 the settlers started to socialize. Celebrating the Fourth of July had been popular back East since the United States had obtained its freedom, but after the completion of the Civil War in 1867 it again became popular. Many Civil War veterans had come here to buy land, and due to their patriotism, this day was set aside for celebrating.
The day was started off with a boom. There was a village blacksmith in every town, and he set off a round of 100 shots beginning at dawn on July 4th. Gunpowder was placed between two anvils, and a thin line of gunpowder led away from the anvils a short distance. The blacksmith touched a match to the gunpowder which led away from anvils, and as the fire crept closer to the anvils, the blacksmith retreated to a place of safety. When the fire reached the gunpowder between the anvils, they would blow apart upon the explosion, and the loud sound could be heard from town to town.
Joe Welte could recall his first Fourth in Danbury in 1881. People from miles around came to celebrate the Fourth. They drove horses and wagons mostly, and the horses' harness and the vehicles were decorated with small flags or red, white and blue bunting or ribbon. They came with well filled baskets. A parade was always scheduled, and the horses and buggies took part in the parade. The Cornet Band which Danbury had in these early days also marched in the parade, and they also played a concert in the afternoon. The business places draped the front of their buildings with red, white and blue bunting. Greetings of "Happy Fourth of July" were exchanged between persons. Some years the Rag Muffins took part in the parade. They were small boys dressed as clowns. The hotels spent days preparing food to serve to their customers, and the tables were filled time after time. Those having their picnic baskets spread a tablecloth on the ground (there was very little grass), and all sat on the ground and the food was placed in the middle of the impromptu table. After dinner a speaker talked on patriotism or read the Declaration of Independence. Horse drawn merry-go-rounds were popular then for the children, and an outside bowery was popular for dancing for the oldsters. A couple of fiddlers or an accordionist furnished the music.
Mrs. J.C. Hammond recalled Mapleton's first celebration July 4, 1878. It was held on the banks of the Maple River as there were no shade trees in Mapleton at that time. People came in lumber wagons with two spring seats and a board across the wagon bed. Some families sang The Star Spangled Banner all the way to town, and she said her father would wave his hat at all he met and shouted, "Hurrah for the Fourth of July!" The girls wore long, white dresses with plaid ribbon sashes around their waists, and the fans tied at the sash at the side. They wore their hair in long curls, tied up on top with ribbon bows. They danced all afternoon and night on the bowery, music being furnished by two fiddlers, Green and Lix Butler. Mrs. Hammond's parents, Francis O'Neill and wife, operated the Farmers Home, a hotel in Mapleton in 1879, and Mrs. Hammond said they had even a larger crowd in 1879 than they did in 1878. Her folks and their help baked bread, pies and cakes for days before the celebration, and the night of the third they worked until midnight getting ready. They baked two hams, scraped a tub full of new potatoes and shelled peas. On the morning of the Fourth the ovens were filled with pork and beef roasts and chicken. Some beef was boiled in large kettles. They served the food family-style. The Livery Barn attached to the hotel was soon filled with horses and rigs and many teams were tied outside. They fed many. There was such a jam in the dining room that the mob had to be cleared out of the room so that they could set the tables for the next customers. Price was 25¢ a meal.
Masonic Grand Lodge 1879
The men who established the town of Danbury and the prairie adjacent thereto, established also places where men could meet and enjoy fellowship. The charter of the Due Guard Lodge No. 387 Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons was granted by the Grand Lodge of Dubuque, Iowa, June 14, 1879. The first meetings were held in the Dan Thomas Hall. They were held there until 1910, and then meetings were held on the third floor of the new Collins Hotel. Charter members in 1879 were R.H. Loucks, R.B. Mills, Hiram Lampman, W.E. Churchill, L.D. Herrington Wm. Warner, A.H. Runyon, Loren L. Runyon, Peter K. Taylor, W.D. Procumeier, A.A. Stowell, Dan Thomas, N.L. Brockway, J.F. Scott, O. Nonis, S.J. Merritt, George Hoskins, John P. McCreegor, and Wm. Smith.
The first officers were the following: Secretary William Smith, Treasurer A.A. Stowell, Worshipful master A.H. Runyon, Senior Warden Richard H. Loucks, and Junior Warden Robert B. Mills.
Civil War Veterans
CHAPTER VI
Incorporation - Mayor 1882-1884 J.S. Shoup
The Roller Banner Mills
Godfrey Durst came from Oto early in year 1882 to buy land along the Maple River, a suitable place for a mill. He had come from Zurich, Switzerland in 1866 after the death of his mother. He worked in mills at various places, earning the trade of a miller. In this area he worked at mills at Omaha; at Oto for Charles Watts; at Battle Creek in partnership with one of his brothers; in 1873 in a new mill at Smithland; 1873-1874 in a Castana mill; and 1874-1882 at Oto in partnership with James Horton. In all those years 1866 to 1882 he had been saving his money hoping to own a mill of his own some day.
He bought land about 1/2 mile east of Danbury along the Maple River from Thomas W. Frentress. He commenced to build the mill after making arrangements to borrow $100 in order to start to build. Building the dam was a big project. All heavy timbers used in the construction first had to be cut from the banks along the Maple River, then sawed, and then pulled with horses to the dam site where they placed one atop the other, and secured well so that high waters would not wash them away. The course of the river had to be changed while the dam was being constructed. All work was done with horses and hand work. The mill was powered by water from the river, passing through turbine water wheels. Steam power could be used if the water failed. Imported French burr mill stones were used for grinding the grain into flour. The output was about 50 barrels of flour per day or about 250 bushels of grain per day.
Incorporation 1882
Many of the towns along the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad line wanted to become incorporated towns in 1882. Danbury had presented an application to the court in Sioux City, Woodbury County, as early as October 1, 1881, but it was not until March 7, 1882, that an election was ordered. Officers elected after incorporation were the following:
| Mayor | Joseph S. Shoup |
| Trustees | William F. Seibold |
| Dr. S.A. McNerny | |
| David Tangeman | |
| Jacob Peters | |
| Levi D. Herrington | |
| J.F. Means | |
| Recorder | G. Nicholas Castle |
| Marshal | Levi Herrington |
| St. Commissioner | J.N. Ostrom |
| Treasurer | Dr. S.A. McNerny |
| Justice of Peace | William Smith |
L.D. Herrington, Danbury's first marshal, had to make the arrests and enforce the town's laws. The Justice of Peace held a responsible position, and he had to have good judgment as he decided the punishment of most misdemeanors. He acted almost as a judge does today. The court system of 1882 was not as efficient as it is today.
A Cemetery for Liston Township 1880
The District Township of Liston purchased ground for a cemetery in 1880, or negotiations could have started in 1879. The cemetery was a quarter mile north of city limits. One of the trustees' names appear on the first drafts of the cemetery, John Bowser. It was platted in 1880. It is known that the Dan Thomases lost two babies, one in 1866 and another in 1868, but they must have been buried somewhere on their land. According to the first records, R.B. Mills purchased the first lot for $3.00, year 1880. Anna C. Hart Cook died in 1881, and her death was the first recorded. Melinda Denison purchased a lot fro $5.00 in August of 1882. Thomas Patterson, John Bowser, J.M. Bishop, and Lewis Koker, a young man, were all buried there in 1883. A Mr. Sanky was also buried there about this same time. The first clerk was G.E. Carroll, manager of the Shepard, Field and Cook Store. The cedar trees planted were obtained at Smithland, and they were planted by the trustees. At first there was no custodian. Weeds were cut with a scythe. Charley Juran was later hired as custodian, and he was there many years. He walked to the cemetery each day and carried his dinner pail. He mowed the cemetery with a push mower. Other known custodians have been William Brashear, Ed Krueger, and Leo Conners. Through the years, lots increased in price. In 1925 a lot for two sold for $15. In 1967 one of the same size sold for $40.
Samuel Griffith, who owned the first hardware and furniture stores in Danbury, made caskets, and he always had several on display on the second floor of his store on the east side of Main Street. Often, a father made the caskets for the dead in his family. In the first days, the corpse was not embalmed. The dead were wrapped in a black cloth shroud usually by a midwife or a neighbor woman. Getting a corpse ready for burial was called "Laying them out."
Calvin Pierce, a Quaker, was Danbury's first undertaker. His wife was the sister of Mrs. Richard Loucks. Mr. Pierce is believed to have built the building presently owned by Barry Brothers on the east side of Main Street. He had hardware on the first floor, and he stored caskets on the second floor. The embalming was done in the home. The dead then were waked two nights. Persons dying during an epidemic were buried, but there was no funeral held until the epidemic had subsided. The casket was hauled to the cemetery in a wagon, later in a horse drawn hearse, and still later in an auto-hearse. Flowers were hauled to the cemetery in a horse drawn cart, and the mourners all followed the hearse in horse drawn vehicles. Black cloth was used for shrouds and could be purchased in any general store. Persons in mourning wore black for a year, and they attended no public functions for a year. A widow wore a black dress, hat and veil to the funeral and other public functions she had to attend. Mr. Pierce left Danbury after Henry Fitzpatrick became a mortician. Henry was undertaker in Danbury until he retired in 1960. His son, Earl took over the business for a time and then sold out to Irven Walters who had mortuaries in several surrounding towns.
Henry held funerals in the early days at Oto. Mike Barry was his driver. He drove an especially quiet team of horses as he did not want them to get excited as they might run away. Mike handled the team well. He never left the hearse once he had the reins in his hands. Catholic rites then were at 9:00 a.m. Everyone had to get around early so as to attend funerals then, and the days were extremely long for Henry and Mike. This business was much earlier for Henry after he had an auto-hearse, but his work was so unpredictable as the weather affected his work; snow storms, muddy roads, etc. all played havoc with him. He did well to serve the community in his capacity for 63 years.
The Tornado of 1883
In the spring of 1883 there probably were no more than 100 persons living in Danbury. In April a fierce tornado ripped through the town. The storm clouds started to gather in later afternoon. The clouds traveled in a southerly direction. Joe Welte, who was a boy of about 11, saw the storm strike as it entered town. He was watching the storm from the upstairs window of the home (now Schimmer's Barber Shop, but in 1883 it was the Jacob Welte Store, and the family's home was upstairs). The St. Patrick's Church which had been built in 1881 was in the direct path of the storm. Joe said when the funnel cloud reached the church it seemed to explode, and debris flew in all directions. All that was salvaged was the bricks from the foundation and chimney and $75 in cash. The wood in the building was in splinters or blown away. The public school which had been built in 1879 was also damaged badly, and there was damage to several homes.
Adam Treiber, his wife Bertha, and their small baby Anton were in the Jacob Welte store buying some supplies when someone came into the store and said there was an awfully dark cloud coming up in the west. Their home was a mile and a half south of Danbury, and they had four more children at home alone, Elizabeth "Liz" who was 8, Maria "Mame" who was 6, Charley who was 4, and John who was 2. They immediately got into the wagon and hurried home as they wanted to reach home before the storm struck. When they arrived home, Bertha took the baby to the house and placed him on the bed where another son, John was already sleeping. She told the children to stay in the house, and she was going to help unhitch the horses, etc. The storm arrived, however, before she returned. The two older girls were watching out of a window, and they saw the stove coming toward them. The small house lifted and started to roll toward the south. It soon broke apart and Liz, Mame and Charley all fell out of the structure. A part of the house landed near the creek. The rain came down in torrents. Adam and Bertha started a search for the children in the rain, and they soon found Mame, Liz and Charley who had all been cut by flying glass and were a bit bruised, but the two babies could not be found. The creek was rising fast, and they decided to search the creek banks for fear the rising water might wash them away. A section of the house was about to be washed downstream, but it was held back by a fallen tree. They finally heard cries coming from the segment of a wall. Upon investigating, they found a feather bed rolled up between the two studdings of the house, and in the feather bed were the two babies. They, too, were scared but unhurt. They salvaged what they could, and for a time, they lived in the corn crib. A trunk which they had brought from New York when they came to Iowa was broken into bits, and Adam's business papers were to the mercy of the winds. The patent or rights to his homestead was found in Danbury. A clock was found atop the hill still running.
Adam Treiber had bought his farm in 1877 from John Castle who had homesteaded the land in 1862. In 1862 everything was prairie, and it was hard to find the boundaries of your land. John Castle's buildings were built on an adjoining tract of land. It was not until 1882 that Adam knew he had to move his buildings, so after the storm in 1883 he proceeded to do this. He moved a deserted homesteader's house from up the draw from them and fixed this up as a permanent home. The Catholics in Danbury purchased the ground up on the hill after the storm in 1883, and they built another St. Patrick's Church on that church property the summer of 1883. The public school was rebuilt also after the storm.
St. Patrick's Church 1883
The Catholics bought the piece of ground "upon the hill" from Dan Thomas. A Maple Valley 8 grade school sat on the location on which they built the church. This property was sold to Mr. Fischer, and he moved the old school to the Fischer farm. The dimensions of the church as built in 1883 were 38'x60'. There were many who worked on the building of this church. Jacob Peters, a contractor, was in charge. Samuel Griffith made the bricks and laid the foundation of the church. The sills were of pine and were 1'x1' in dimension. The rafters were hand notched with an axe, fitted, then pinned with a hand-whittled wooden pin. Nails were the flat, square headed nails, more like a bolt. The church had a tall spire and a cross above the entry. Patrick McGrath, a farmer in the Soldier Valley, built and finished the altar. Dan Thomas plastered the church. Many of the parishioners donated their time and helped in every way they could. A barn was built at the rear of the church for horses of Fr. Meagher's; he had several Missions to attend to as well as Danbury. Fr. Meagher arrived before the completion of the church, and until a rectory was built, he roomed and boarded in the Jacob Peters Rooming House on Main Street. The church was completed by Christmas of 1883.
The first Mass was held on Christmas day, 1883. Nearly everyone received communion, and four babies were baptized that same day. The babies baptized were Julie Ollie Struble, Honora Sullivan, Agnes Kregin, and Frances Patrick O'Meara of Ida Grove.
Reverend Timothy Meagher was the first resident priest, coming year 1883. Fr. Meagher was born in Kilkenny, Bramblestown County, Ireland in 1855. His parents were Daniel and Ellen DeLaney Meagher. He had 5 sisters and 3 brothers. Fr. Meagher received his education at Kernans College in Ireland. He came to the U.S. after finishing his schooling. A brother, Patrick and a sister, Margaret followed him to the U.S. Fr. Meagher was assigned to St. Patrick's of Danbury when he was 28 years old. In 1883 he served several missions besides Danbury - Ida Grove, Oto, Charter Oak, and Mapleton. He had Oto as a mission a number of years. When there was a funeral at Oto, he always took his choir with him. The six girls making up the choir were Lulu Kennedy (Mrs. Ed Driscoll), Ellen Kennedy (Mrs. P.C. Keitges), Mary Kennedy (Mrs. Christian LeDuc), Jo Hanna O'Keefe (Mrs. Henry Fitzpatrick), Rosa Welte (Mrs. John Crilly), and Maggie Collins, then all young unmarried ladies. Fr. Meagher took them with horse and carriage. They left Danbury early in the morning and returned late in the afternoon.
Fr. Meagher secured a room at the Jacob Peters Rooming House, and children of Catholic families came to his room for Catechism lessons until a rectory was built in 1884. The first academy (wooden) was built in 1887.
St. Patrick's Church 1883
The first Mass was held on Christmas Day, 1883. Nearly everyone received communion, and four babies were baptized that same day. The babies baptized were Julie Ollie Struble, Honora Sullivan, Agnes Kregin, and Frances Patrick O'Meara of Ida Grove.
Reverend Timothy Meagher was the first resident priest, coming year 1883. Fr. Meagher was born in Kilkenny, Bramblestown County, Ireland in 1855. His parents were Daniel and Ellen DeLaney Meagher. He had 5 sisters and 3 brothers. Fr. Meagher received his education at Kernans College in Ireland. He came to the U.S. after finishing his schooling. A brother, Patrick and a sister, Margaret followed him to the U.S. Fr. Meagher was assigned to St. Patrick's of Danbury when he was 28 years old. In 1883 he served several missions besides Danbury - Ida Grove, Oto, Charter Oak, and Mapleton. He had Oto as a mission a number of years. When there was a funeral at Oto, he always took his choir with him. The six girls making up the choir were Lulu Kennedy (Mrs. Ed Driscoll), Ellen Kennedy (Mrs. P.C. Keitges), Mary Kennedy (Mrs. Christian LeDuc), Jo Hanna O'Keefe (Mrs. Henry Fitzpatrick), Rosa Welte (Mrs. John Crilly), and Maggie Collins, then all young unmarried ladies. Fr. Meagher took them with horse and carriage. They left Danbury early in the morning and returned late in the afternoon.
Fr. Meagher secured a room at the Jacob Peters Rooming House, and children of Catholic families came to his room for Catechism lessons until a rectory was built in 1884. The first academy (wooden) was built in 1887.
Church subscriptions
1883-1890
Note: Many of these family names are now, 1970, spelled differently. In 1890 Danbury had only the one Catholic church.
| Mr. Anderson | $5.00 |
|---|---|
| Barrett, Jacob | 25.00 |
| Barry, Pat | 35.00 |
| Barry, John | 15.00 |
| Baxter, Reed and Co. | 10.00 |
| Baekermeyer, John | 15.50 |
| Beeson, Thomas | 11.00 |
| Bolier, J. | 49.50 |
| Bollack, Nicholas | 5.00 |
| Bolster, Barney | 19.00 |
| Bolster, Joe and John | 29.45 |
| Bollig, John P. | 10.00 |
| Bollig, Matthew | 10.00 |
| Booher, W.B. | 5.00 |
| Bower, Matthew | 20.00 |
| Bower, Nicholas | 20.00 |
| Bowman, C.P. | 3.00 |
| Bowman, S.H. | 25.00 |
| Boyle, John | 23.35 |
| Boyle, Michael | 97.15 |
| Bray, James | 64.00 |
| Bray, Patrick Jr. | 5.00 |
| Bray, Patrick Sr. | 450.00 |
| Burns, John | 5.00 |
| Burns, Michael | 20.00 |
| Callahan, Chas. | 30.00 |
| Canfield, Michael | 23.00 |
| Castle, G.N. | 5.00 |
| Clerking, James | 50.00 |
| Collins, Catherine | 10.00 |
| Collins, Con | 122.20 |
| Collins, J.W. | 18.00 |
| Collins, Michael | 37.50 |
| Collins, P.H. | 4.50 |
| Collins, Pat | 90.00 |
| Colman, A. | 24.80 |
| Cook, Wm. | 2.00 |
| Corrigan, A.P. | 25.50 |
| Coughlin, John | 66.00 |
| Coyne, Peter | 11.00 |
| Craig, John | 5.20 |
| Craig, Owen | 65.20 |
| Cregan, Pat | 10.00 |
| Crilly, John | 5.00 |
| Crilly, Peter | 68.45 |
| Crilly, Thomas | 5.00 |
| Culbert, John | 19.50 |
| Curtin, Con | 15.00 |
| Curtin, Jeff | 30.00 |
| Curtin, John | 20.00 |
| Daly, Dan | 5.00 |
| Daly, Jeff | 25.00 |
| Dessel, Frank | 45.50 |
| Dummig, Henry | 137.10 |
| Dolan, Bernard | 5.25 |
| Dolan, John | 59.20 |
| Dolan, Stephen | 5.15 |
| Dorn, Bros. | 25.00 |
| Drea, Michael | 15.00 |
| Dresden, Henry | 12.00 |
| Driscoll, John | 5.00 |
| Driscoll, Murthy | 44.50 |
| Dunnery, Chas. | 5.00 |
| Durst, Godfrey | 20.00 |
| Eilers, Henry | 10.00 |
| Eilers, John | 7.00 |
| Elemire, Frank | 22.00 |
| Elliott, John | 7.00 |
| Ernest, Aloysius | 10.00 |
| Fitzpatrick, Dan | 24.25 |
| Fitzpatrick, D.F. | 63.50 |
| Fitzpatrick, T.L. | 45.45 |
| Flood, Matthew | 146.75 |
| Frum, C.C. | 5.00 |
| Funke, C.A. | 92.00 |
| Galvin, Jerry | 15.50 |
| Ganion, John | 66.65 |
| Garrison, James | 10.00 |
| Gault, Frank | 6.00 |
| Gleeson, John Jr. | 5.00 |
| Gleeson, John Sr. | 29.50 |
| Greek, Mrs. | 5.00 |
| Garrigan, John | 126.50 |
| Hartstock, Albert | 70.00 |
| Hand, Walter & Co. | 25.00 |
| Hayes, Edward | 1.50 |
| Hayes, Peter | 9.00 |
| Hayes, Willie | 45.00 |
| Hefferman, John | 2.00 |
| Henzie, Wm. | 2.50 |
| Herman, Adam | 2.50 |
| Hermonsen, Albert | 2.00 |
| Hiller, G.P. | 40.00 |
| Hittle, John | 5.00 |
| Horton, J.S. | 10.00 |
| Jones, Henry | 34.91 |
| Kampmeyer, John | 10.00 |
| Kane, Thomas | 76.50 |
| Keegan, John | 44.80 |
| Keitges, Nicholas | 35.00 |
| Keitges, P.B. | 12.00 |
| Keitges, Peter | 35.00 |
| Keitges, Pierre | 15.00 |
| Keleher, Con | 5.00 |
| Keleher, James | 22.50 |
| Keleher, Michael | 84.50 |
| Kelly, Henry | 10.00 |
| Kelly, Pat | 25.00 |
| Keough, John | 5.00 |
| Keough, Pat | 5.00 |
| Kessel, Frank | 37.00 |
| Killian, John A. | 10.00 |
| Killian, John | 26.25 |
| Killian, P.A. | 6.70 |
| Kimball, C.E. | 4.00 |
| Kueny, Killian | 10.00 |
| Lacy, James | 35.00 |
| Lacy, Moses | 123.80 |
| Liebold, Adam | .50 |
| Lenz, Nicholas | 45.00 |
| Lippold, John | 6.00 |
| Litzsenschwab, Mr. | 16.00 |
| Lombard, Mr. | 5.00 |
| Loppy, Henry | 15.00 |
| Loucks, R.H. | 35.00 |
| Lynch, Bridget | 10.00 |
| Madden, John | 22.00 |
| Mahoney, John | 15.00 |
| Mahoney, Michael | 3.00 |
| Mahoney, Wm. | 8.00 |
| McAleer, John | 8.20 |
| McDonald, Dan | 10.00 |
| McGer, Mr. | 5.00 |
| McGuire, John | 1.00 |
| McGuire, J.E. | 5.00 |
| McGuire, Pat | 5.00 |
| McGuire, Thomas | 20.00 |
| McGrath, Dan | 56.00 |
| McGrath, John | 10.00 |
| McGrath, Mary | 20.00 |
| McGrath, Michael | 70.00 |
| McGrath, Patrick | 196.00 |
| McKenna, George | 20.00 |
| McKenna, Willie | 12.25 |
| McKivergan, James | 14.00 |
| McNerny, Dr. | 20.00 |
| McNiff, John | 20.00 |
| McShea, James | 10.00 |
| Meaghan, Fr. | 230.00 |
| Means, J.F. | 2.50 |
| Meciffergin, Dan | 5.00 |
| Meehan, John | 5.00 |
| Miller, Barney | 15.00 |
| Montgomery, Chas. | 1.50 |
| Morehouser, John | 26.15 |
| Morgan, James | 5.00 |
| Morgan, Jerry | 5.00 |
| Moriarity, Sylvester | 105.00 |
| Moran, James | 35.00 |
| Morrisy, James | 41.00 |
| Murphy, Daniel | 10.00 |
| Murphy, John Jr. | 34.60 |
| Murphy, John Sr. | 25.50 |
| Murray, Frank | 1.00 |
| Nevin, Pat | 20.00 |
| Newcomer, Dan | 3.00 |
| Obereiter, William | 41.00 |
| O'Connor, James | 10.00 |
| O'Connor, John | 11.00 |
| O'Connor, John, Mapleton | |
| 10.00 | |
| O'Connor, Walter | 2.50 |
| O'Day, Daniel | 84.00 |
| O'Day, John | 10.00 |
| O'Doherty, Joe | 18.50 |
| O'Donnell, Mrs. M. | 25.00 |
| Ogan and Lyons | 5.00 |
| O'Hare, Henry | 55.00 |
| O'Hare, Hugh | 10.00 |
| Oregon, Mrs. | 5.00 |
| Ostrom, J.H. | 5.00 |
| Penny, Wm. | 5.00 |
| Peters, John | 5.00 |
| Peters, Nicholas | 25.00 |
| Quigley, John Jr. | 5.30 |
| Quigley, John Sr. | 31.50 |
| Ratchford, Michael | 51.25 |
| Reilly, M.H. | 5.00 |
| Reilly, Pat | 10.50 |
| Reinhold, Wm. | 1.00 |
| Rogers, Thomas | 27.50 |
| Rosier, Peter | 16.50 |
| Rush, Michael | 30.25 |
| Rush, Pat | 19.25 |
| Sahm, Jacob | 2.50 |
| Santee, A.J. | 2.50 |
| Santee, I.B. | 5.50 |
| Savening, Albert | 26.75 |
| Savening, Jos. | 5.00 |
| Savening, Rinehart | 25.00 |
| Scanlon, Pat | 20.00 |
| Schindler, John | 5.00 |
| Schindler, M. | 10.00 |
| Schoner, Geo. | 15.20 |
| Schrounk, John | 5.00 |
| Scrible, Henry | 10.00 |
| Seibold Bros. | 5.00 |
| Seibold, W.F. | 35.00 |
| Sexton, James | 80.00 |
| Shaffer, Ed | 10.00 |
| Shaffer, Mr. | 20.00 |
| Shepherd, Field & Cook | 25.00 |
| Siglein, Fred | 5.00 |
| Smythe, Wm. | 10.00 |
| Stodden, Martin | 15.00 |
| Stodden, N.A. | 20.82 |
| Sullivan, Con | 10.00 |
| Sullivan, Dan | 10.00 |
| Sullivan, Dennis | 25.00 |
| Sullivan, John | 5.00 |
| Tangeman, Daniel | 20.00 |
| Teefy, Dan | 16.75 |
| Teefy, Michael | 27.50 |
| Teefy, Patrick | 59.00 |
| Thankel, John | 1.00 |
| Thomas, Dan | 25.00 |
| Tonner Bros. | 5.00 |
| Uehle, John | 7.55 |
| Uehle, Jos. Sr. | 10.40 |
| Uehle, Jos. Sr. | 16.60 |
| Uhl, Anthony | 65.00 |
| Uhl, John | 47.00 |
| Uhl, Jos. | 33.50 |
| Uhl, Martin | 37.50 |
| Uhlrich, Nicholas | 10.00 |
| Ulsch, Chris | 6.00 |
| Walling, Herman | 21.00 |
| Warner, Herman | 5.00 |
| Webber, William | 5.00 |
| Weinold, Henry | 8.00 |
| Welte, Jacob | 176.31 |
| Wheeling, Barney | 5.00 |
| Wilcox, H.T. | 8.00 |
| Wilson, Louis | 6.00 |
| Wilson, Mrs. J. | 6.00 |
| Winton, Jos. | 10.00 |
| Zimmernian, Mr. | 80.00 |
| Zitzenberger, Jos. | 5.50 |
There were quite a number of businessmen here by 1883. Those that advertised in The Danbury Review, 1883 were the following:
G.E. Carroll - He was hired by Dan Thomas to manage the Dan Thomas General Store, but, due to unfair business practices, the store lost money, and Dan lost the store. This store served as a post office and the stage stop, 1883.
V.A. Ostrom - Restaurant (just north of present laundromat). Later a saloon.
Jacob Welte - General store built 1881 (Schimmer Barber Shop). Home was upstairs.
L.D. Herrington - Livery, feed and Dray (location of Anna Steinbach residence).
Godfrey Durst - Roller Banner Mills
R.H. Loucks - Drug store and notary public (located on present bank corner). The family first lived upstairs.
Walter H. Hand and Co. - Hardware, Tinware, and cook stoves. Tin smith shop was on present laundromat location. He made many of the tin articles he sold. Articles of tinware were cookie cutters, candle scones, coasters, roasting pans, combs, strainers, tin cups, graters, funnels, tin plates, and baby plates with the alphabet around them. Mr. Hand also sold stoves and stove pipe. The first telephone switchboard in Danbury was installed in his store. Walter married Cora Cameron, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Rice Cameron. They raised an adopted son, Cameron.
H.T. Wilcox - Whips, bridles, harness, trunks, etc. Henry was Danbury's first harness maker. His shop was on the west side of Main St. (later George Elskamp's Harness Shop). Henry married Emma Dicks. They had two girls, Eva N. and Bertha.
| Income: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Insurance on old and new churches | $1,642.63 | |
| Fr. Barron collected in the east | 652.00 | |
| Material salvaged from old church, 6,000 bricks and cash | 75.00 | |
| Fairs and festivals | 3,334.80 | |
| Fr. Meagher collected from outside missions | 874.55 | |
| Donated by the people of parish | 6,784.20 | |
| Total received | 13,363.97 | |
| Expense: | ||
| Church grounds, barn, fence and sidewalks | $1,361.00 | |
| Paid Jacob Peters for building church | 1,017.00 | |
| For new chruch including vestments, damage | ||
| by storm, altar, stations, pews, etc. | 4,983.19 | |
| Pastor's recotry and furniture | 2,500.00 | |
| Church expense for the 6 years | 978.45 | |
| Insurance of property from 1883-1890 | 304.50 | |
| Interest on money borrowed | 1,126.25 | |
| Cemetery cost $230, sold lots $230 | ||
| Convent, school hall and furniture | 3,750.00 | |
| Total expense | 16,020.39 | |
| Leaving a liability of | 2,656.42 | |
| To meet liability, a note held for $905.90 | ||
| and Lot in Sioux City $200 | 1,106.90 | |
| Total debt Jan 1., 1890 | $1,549.52 |
Businessmen 1883
Elliot and Redfield Meat Market - The "butcher" bought livestock from the local livestock buyer, or directly from the farmer. The animal was driven to the slaughter house which was south of present Ralph Scott barn, nearer the river. Here the animals were yarded and butchered when convenient. There was later a second slaughter house built on corner post Gene Volkman farm. The carcasses were cooled overnight, then taken to the butcher shop. The men working in the shop sat in a heated room at the rear, but the meat was always in a cold room. The carcass was hung on a large hook and parts cut off when the customer requested certain cuts. Later, counters were installed, and cleaned, cracked ice from the river was used to refrigerate. The meat shop slogan then was "From the Stable to the Table," but the methods changed, and by 1918 the butcher was selling groceries along with the meat. The butcher then gave you a chunk of liver free and also a bone for your dog. Three pounds of steak cost a quarter. Other butcher shops in Danbury were Benjamin Smith, John Hart, Clancy and Flood, Henry Osterholtz and Elzie Tangeman, Henry Osterholtz and Wenz Gruber, Henry Crippen, and Dick "Richard" Colbert.
David Tangeman - Grain dealer and coal. David purchased a small lumber yard when he first came here (west of Maple Valley Lumber Yard). He soon built a small elevator on this property, and he bought and shipped corn; he also had many cribs of corn about town. The corn was brought in by his renters. He later discontinued the lumber yard and just sold coal.
W.F. Seibold - Lumber and grain. He had a number of buildings at south end of Main Street. He had an elevator, office and lumber yard.
W.B. Booher - Furniture and coffins (bought business of Samuel Griffith 1883).
F.H. Rose - Real estate.
Ostrom and E. Mensinger - Real estate and loans. They had a small office on the west side of Main Street.
J.F. Means - Hardware and implements north of Dan Thomas Store.
Ogan and Lyon - General store.
S.H. Bowman Lumber Yard - (on location of Maple Valley Lumber Yard).
Santee and Gault - Managers of Shepard, Field and Cook Store. The three men from Council Bluffs bought the store from G.E. Carroll, and they sent Santee to Danbury to manager the store in 1883. Gault was a clerk. John Crilly was hired as a clerk in 1883.
J.H. Ostrom - Attorney.
G.E. George - Visiting attorney from Ida Grove.
William Reinhold - Blacksmith and wagon making. William and Ellen Reinhold were in Danbury 1883 to 1889. They sold their property then to Patrick Collins.
G.R. Myrick and A.C. Myrick - Blacksmiths.
Theodore Litzelschwab - Boot and shoemaker. Built a two story building on the west side of Main Street north of present German Mutual building. His family lived above the shop. He made some shoes and boots, but by 1880 there were 2,000 shoe factories in the U.S. People often did not have the money to buy store bought shoes, and many thought store bought shoes to be inferior to the homemade ones. Some children went barefoot to school until the first frosts. Gunny sacks were often wrapped around the foot. Overshoes were first introduced in 1890. Theodore remained in Danbury all of his life. He died on December 15, 1892. Mr. Keller and son Irving then took over his shop, and they repaired shoes. George Elskamp who ran the harness shop repaired shoes along with his business, after the Kellers.
R.L. Canty - Shoemaker.
Samuel Griffith - Dealer in brick. After Samuel Griffith sold his hardware, he went into the brick business, and he also was a carpenter. Clay for the brick was obtained on the Peter Smith farm, present Gene Volkman farm. To make bricks, a large pit was dug, then alternated layers of clay and sand were placed in the pit. Water was then run into the pit until the sand and clay were wet thoroughly. A horse attached to a sweep went round and round pulling a mechanism which pulverized the mixture and mixed it thoroughly. The mixture was put into a mould the shape of a brick, excess clay was scraped from the mold with a wire bow, and when the mould was smooth, the moulds were carried to a shady and graveled yard. The moulds were stood on end and edged. When the clay was dry, the bricks were removed from the moulds, stacked, and covered with a board trough. The bricks had to be kept dry or they would disintegrate. Sam made bricks for all foundations of the first homes and chimneys, and he made and laid the brick for St. Patrick's Church built in 1883. He also made the brick and built the house presently owned by Mel Pithan. This was the Wilbert Booher home. Sam also built the first Catholic church in 1881, the one destroyed by a tornado. He also helped to build the public school in 1879.
George N. Castle - Castle House Hotel. Nick came to Danbury in 1879 and bought a hotel built by Melvin Chapman in 1878 (on Barry Bros. Motors lot). George and his wife, Elmira opened this hotel from 1879 to 1904. They offered room, board, and livery service.
Grey and Beery - Lawyers from Ida Grove.
Dr. J.N. Condron - Veterinarian. He came before Danbury had a physician, and he was sometimes called to care for the sick.
Dr. S.A. McNerny - Physician and surgeon who came in 1880. His office was in the building south of the Jacob Welte Store on the east side (next to Schimmer Barber Shop presently). He was a very good doctor, but he drank too much, so he was not very dependable. He died in Danbury when quite young.
A.J. Smith - Auctioneer.
Joseph O'Dougherty - Insurance Agent, also sold real estate. He was a civic leader and served on many committees and held many offices.
W.E. Condron - Tonsorial Artist (Barber). Was a brother of Dr. Condron.
Jacob Peters - Contractor. He built a rooming house on Henry Fitzpatrick Store location when he first arrived. He contracted and built Danbury Public School and St. Patrick's Church, built in 1883.
Dr. C.A. Bradly - Came spring of 1880.
George Castle Sr. - Carpenter.
Benjamin Smith - Drove Danbury to Sioux City stage.
Dan Thomas - Mason.
Dr. Julius Warren Cox - Practicing physician and surgeon. He also came to Danbury in 1883, but he later moved to Mapleton after marrying Cora Bridges, a Mapleton girl.
Charley C. Cook - One of the partners owning the Shepard, Field and Cook Store, also came to Danbury in 1883. He was the grandson of Philander Cook of New York, and he was of Dutch ancestry. His mother, Caroline F. Williams Cook was a descendant of Roger Williams who founded the colony of Rhode Island. C.C. Cook was born at Java Lake, Wyoming County, New York in July 28, 1855, the second of four children. Charley received his education at Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to which city his parents had moved when he was 8. When 15 Charley went to Lacon, Illinois, and he found employment with the railroad surveyors. When 18 he went to Council Bluffs and became a traveling salesman for a wholesale dry goods house. He along with Shepard and Field bought the Dan Thomas Store from G.E. Carroll in 1883. Charley lived in Danbury part of the time and came here often when a traveling salesman. He married Maude Knepper. They had one son, A. Delbert.
Commercial Hotel on Crilly Store Lot
The Commercial Hotel was built and operated about 1881, but the exact year and first owners are unknown. Joe Welte said a Mr. Kelsey managed it at one time. Patrick and Anna Collins (grandparents of Esther and Lucille Collins) moved to Danbury from Cork Hill in 1885. They then took over the management of the hotel. Patrick Collins also bought the vacant lot to the north of the hotel from William an Ellen Reinhold in 1889, and he built a livery on the east of his hotel soon after he purchased it in 1885. Anna Collins continued to operate this hotel after Pat died. They hauled passengers to and from the depot. Stage coach travelers often stayed there. Three meals were served there every day at 25¢ a meal. Meals were announced by ringing a bell. The first bell meant dinner was ready, and the second bell announced it was ready to be served. Many single men roomed there. A son, John Collins and wife also came to Danbury from Cork Hill in 1903, and they took over the management after his mother quit the business. John bought the hotel from his mother on January 9, 1906. John and his wife Bridget operated the hotel until 1910. They then sold it to John H. Crilly who wanted to build a store on the location. The house was split into two parts and moved to different parts of town and made into residences (present Ed Krueger and Schenke homes).
RAILROAD LAND SOLD
1880 - 1885
Every depot in eastern Iowa, Indiana, and Illinois was displaying sale bills advertising Northwest Iowa land and land extending along the new tracks which had just been completed from Clinton County to Council Bluffs in Harrison County. The land was also advertised in Iowa Homestead and other farm papers. The land for sale was along our present Highway 30, from east to west across the state, and in Northwest Iowa as far north as LeMars and Storm Lake, and as far south as Missouri Valley and Dunlap. The government had given the railroads every other section of land along the right of way of the railroad trackage, and if some of these sections were already taken, land was given to them as far back from the railroad as 15 miles. The land was given them to compensate or the cost of building the railroad lines. The government wanted the railroads to dispose of the land as quickly as possible, so as to get the land on the tax list. The land-seeking families that came at this time had more money and were better off financially as they had been farming in the East, Indiana, Illinois, or eastern Iowa for a number of years.
RAILROAD LAND SOLD 1880 - 1885 Most of these people came by immigrant train. Some had neighbors back in Clinton County. Most people who came to Danbury were either of Irish or German nationality, and the land agents sold adjoining farms to people of the same nationality. Land north of Danbury was sold to Irish families. Germans of Catholic faith bought land in Dutch Hollow. Germans of Lutheran faith bought land southeast of Danbury in what was called the Rush Creek Settlement. The Sharon community was also a settlement of German-Lutheran families, and a church and cemetery were started at this settlement. Rush Creek Settlement There were several sections of land sold to Germans in Monona County but bordering Woodbury County in an area known today as the Otto Cemetery location. These Germans had come all from Pommerania, Germany in 1860s and had settled on land in Clinton County, Iowa, near Lyons, Low Moor, and Camanche. At the time they came east from New York, Clinton County was the end of the railroad line. In 1877, J.F.A. Ahlwardt, wife Carolina Berndt and their three sons came to Crawford County to break sod for Mr. Hart and Mr. Moiun of Clinton County who had purchased land near Danbury (actually in Crawford County 8 miles east of Danbury). They came and liked it here and wrote back to relatives what a wonderful farming country this was and the reasonable prices of land. In a few years all had come, mostly relatives and some friends, and they all took adjoining farms near the creek Rush Creek, a creek so named because of the fast waters. Families coming were Ludwig and Frederika Ahlwardt Hartleben; John and Hannah Ahlwardt Newmann; Albert Ahlwardt, William and Sophia Berndt Hillman; William Berndt; Fritz and Wilhemina Hillman Ohm; Charley and Hannah Berndt Ladendorf; John F. and Elizabeth Brant Rhode; William and Anna Hartleben Rhode; John C. and Emma Ladendorf Rhode; George and Emma Rhode Riecks; William and Margaret Wiese and family; William Mensingers and sons Fred, William Jr., Herman, August, and Henry; Bernard and Sophia Johnck and children August, John and Amelia (Mrs. Albert Ahlwardt); William and Mary Klickow; August and Lena Bartels; Henry and John Babbe families; Antone Borneman; Carl Plog family and his brother Louis Plog; and August and Margaretha Lille and their families. Many of these families had grown children upon arriving, and as they married they took adjoining land. These were very close knit families, and they all made an effort to help one another when in need or sickness. Hannah Ladendorf and Mary Klickow were both midwives, and they delivered all the babies and nursed the sick. Whenever there was a death in a family, they entered the home and prepared the corpse for a burial, otherwise known as "laying them out." The children in the Rush Creek Settlement first attended school in the Thomas Porter home. It was north of the Ladendorf buildings, close to the creek bank. This was a dug out house with an earthen floor, and the light entered the house from the windows at the front of the dug out. There were field mice in the dug out, and the boys going to school there often chased the girls with the mice or placed the dead mice in girls' school desks. By 1881 Thomas Porter gave land for a school house, and it was built on the hill just west of the Ladendorf buildings. Mr. Porter was the first director, and the school was then known as the Porter School. School started in September but was dismissed through the month of November to let the grown pupils help pick corn. There were many older boys and girls who attended this school in the winters; sometimes as many as 30 pupils were attending. Church services were held in this school until a Lutheran church was built in Soldier Township, Crawford County. This school was later known as the Wiese School and the Ladendorf School. John and Hannah Newmann owned the 40 acres on which is the Otto Cemetery today. Hannah gave 2 acres off the northeast corner of her farm for a cemetery. Her wish was that all people who had come from Pommerania, Germany, should be buried there. Her husband, John was buried there, and the second person to be buried there was her close friend, Sophia Rhode, the grandmother of John and William Rhode who died on May 5, 1877. It has since been maintained by Monona County, First Newmann Cemetery, now Otto. William Wiese provided much of the entertainment for these early settlers. His farm is now owned by Bob Hartigan. The Danbury Stage Coach to Denison passed through his farm, and the trail came out on the north, and this is where he built a large dance hall. The floor was roofed, and there was a check room for wraps, a room for mothers to care for their babies, and a bar where beer and other drinks were sold. This was a popular dance hall for many years. The Johncks Orchestra usually provided the music, and the Danbury Stage hauled patrons out from Danbury. Many of the Rush Creek settlement could play instruments, and on Sunday afternoon they would congregate in some home and play music. Mr. Wiese also organized the Sons of Hermans Society, an organization which these families had known in Germany. This social club met regularly at the Wiese farm, and to belong you had to have certain qualifications and physical fitness was practiced. Rules were the following:
The meetings were held on Sunday. There was a lake on the Wiese farm, and some went fishing. The Danbury people called this "Hermans Hoose on Wiesback," meaning Herman's House on Wiese's Lake. This was during saloon days. Many of the men who belonged to this organization were heavy drinkers, and soon these meetings became drunken brawls. This finally culminated into a tragedy. One of the members divulged some secrets of the organization. Shortly thereafter the man was found one Sunday morning floating in the Maple River below the dam. No one knew whether it was a suicide or a murder, and no charges were ever brought against anyone, but the Sons of Hermans Society received a bad name from this episode, and from that time on no one wanted to admit that he was ever a member of this organization. Rush Creek Ball Club Nearly every family from Rush Creek had some grown boys. They had grown up in Clinton County and all had learned to play ball back east. These young men soon organized baseball clubs after arriving in Monona County. They would congregate on a Sunday afternoon in somebody's pasture. Those playing on the first team were William Hartleben and his younger brother Albert; Albert Ladendorf; Henry, Fred and Herman Mensinger; Fritz and Albert Ahlwardt; Antone Treiber; and the Driscoll boys Mike and Robert. As these young men grew up others took their place. Others who played were Gerheart and Walter Riecks, Walter and Louis Ott, James and John Scott, George and Fred Treiber, and Bart Barry came out from Danbury. There was a Rush Creek team before a team organized in Danbury. George Treiber was pitcher, and he could pitch a ball hard to hit. This team later had uniforms, and they played at many public functions, often playing Danbury or some other team from a surrounding town. Organized by 1885. Johncks Orchestra John Johncks came from Clinton County with his parents, Bernard and Sophia Johnck and his brother, Gus and his sister, Amelia. John and Gus were both very musical, and both could play practically any instrument. John and Max Bartels always played for the barn dances, etc. in the neighborhood. Gus died of pneumonia when quite young. John married Lena Rhode, daughter of John F. and Elizabeth Brant Rhode, and he lived on the old Johncks place 2 miles west of Otto Cemetery. Their oldest child was a son which they named Gus after his Uncle Gus Johnck. Gus was very talented, too, and his father bought him a violin when he was just 12. When the Wilkenson Hall was built and dances held there in 1888, John Johnck enlarged his orchestra, and they then played for all Danbury dances as well as at Mapleton, Ida Grove, Oto, Odebolt, etc. They traveled by train when possible, but when they played at Oto, they went by team and buggy. Members of this orchestra were John Boyer, Art Powell, Otto Schrank, George Wilkinson, John Johnck and his son Gus age 16, and Albert Ladendorf and John Putzier often substituted. Entertainment in 1880s, Danbury, Iowa Sunday Walks and Meeting the Train People did not work on the Sabbath in 1883. There were religious services in the Methodist church most of the day at different times. The Catholic Mass was much longer. After Mass the families usually went visiting.
Entertainment in 1880s, Danbury, Iowa
Sunday Walks and Meeting the Train
Town residents, after the coming of the railroad, liked to take Sunday walks. They would walk down the railroad tracks to the river and Mill and return to Danbury by the old Mill road.
There was always a crowd at the depot on Sunday evening when the train came in.
Ice skating on the Maple River was a popular sport in the winter. The boys had a swimming hole in the Maple, and 2 or 3 young men lost their lives by drowning in the Maple River.
Maple Valley Trotting Association and Racing
This organization which sponsored horse racing was organized as early as 1879. They put out a program, and liberal prizes were offered in the different classes to assure that all pledges of the Association would be kept. Every town along the Maple River took an interest in this racing, and nearly all towns had a race track. Several Danbury families owned either trotting horses or race horses.
Betting on horses as to speed and pulling power was also common entertainment. The betting was enjoyed as much was the races. Skids were loaded to rocks. A horse's power was judged according to the size of the load it could pull. A horse and rider running a race from one point to another, and also the game of tug of war between two teams of men were popular entertainment for the men.
Playing horse shoes was always popular with the men and boys.
Footraces
"Maple Valley Scoop" October 18, 1883: One of the most important events of the season was a footrace at Oto Saturday between Dave Mahoney of Cork Hill and Smith from Smithland. The original stakes were $100 a side between Frank Hilliard for Mahoney and Mr. Adams for Smith. Early in the afternoon the people began to gather, work was abandoned and even a party of threshers 2 miles up the river left their job half-completed and came to see the fun. A baseball game was played between the Cork Hill and West Fork Club to quiet the nerves of the anxiously awaiting crowd. Everywhere in the village were small groups of men wagering on their favorite. By the appointed time of the race, 1,000 persons had arrived.
The place chosen for the race was on the race track of J.S. Horton just across the river. At 4:15 the crowd moved across the race track. Wager after wager was deposited, and all through the crowd men could be seen waging from $5 to $100 bills which would be covered as soon as they were conspicuous. The crowd seemed to be equally divided, and a tight race was expected as both men had gained notoriety as runners. The distance of 100 yards was measured off when both men appeared in their running costumes. The judges were chosen and the tracks were cleared. The runners were placed in position. When the word was given, the men started, and it was plain to see from the start who the winner wold be. Mahoney was 5' behind at the end of the race. The judge declared Smith as the winner and fully $1,000 exchanged hands. Afterwards a horse race between Jenkins' mare Bally and a horse named Ketchup took place for a small purse. Ketchup was winner."
Thought this was interesting because they evidently did not believe in all work and no play, and, although they were poor, they seemed to have money for betting.
CHAPTER VII
Danbury's Growth
1884-1886 Benjamin Smith, Mayor
1886-1888 George N. Castle, Mayor
Town of Danbury's First Bank - Dorn Loan Office
The first bank in Danbury was more of a loan office. E.D. and D.D. Dorn came to Danbury in 1884 and opened a loan office on Main Street in the Cord building. They borrowed money to these first settlers. Most came here with a plow, a team of horses, a cow, and possibly a crate of chickens, but none had the money to dig a well, buy a windmill, or put in their first crop. Interest then was 20%. You gave what property you had as security, and many a settler lost that. You actually only received $80 out of $100 that you borrowed as the first year's interest was kept out when you borrowed the money. Interest was paid in advance.
Clinton R. Dorn wrote a letter to Fred Freeman, editor of "Danbury Review," telling him of his father's and uncle's loan office, and congratulated him on Danbury's fine basketball team which played at the state tournament at Iowa City in 1946.
Dear Mr. Freeman,
As an old Danburyite, I want to congratulate the Danbury team on the exceptional record which they made at Iowa City. Just tell the boys I am for them, and I am especially proud of that big bunch of rooters that went to Iowa City as well, instead of staying home and milking the cows or putting the baby to sleep.
My father, Daniel Dorn and his brother, E.D. Dorn founded the first bank in Danbury in 1884, 62 years ago. Prairie schooners poured in from back east in a constant stream and settled up the territories around Danbury. Possibly I can refresh the memories of some by recounting a few pioneer events.
The first thing these pioneers did was to go to the country and select a tract of land which they could do by simply filing pre-emption claims and living up to certain things. But they were all optimists. As soon as they had pre-empted a tract, they headed for the bank and said, "Mr. Dorn, my name is Jones. I'm from Massachusetts. I own 160 acres of land out near town and I am busted. I haven't got a cent to buy farm implements or livestock or seed. I haven't got the money to buy groceries nor the necessities of life. You have got to stake me," and Father would loan them the money.
Father made it a point to drive all over that part of Woodbury County to keep in touch with these pioneers. He knew when Bill would have a bunch of cattle to sell, Jim some hogs, and Joe some horses. When the crop was ready to sell, he would be on the job and pay a little more than the others so that he could get his payment in produce. He took what they produced, took out what they owed him, and gave them a check for the balance, and they were happy and so was he. They came out west to make good and paid off debts they had made back east. That's the kind of stuff our pioneers were made of. Maybe some Danburyites will remember that Father made Danbury the biggest shipping point for grain and livestock in all Iowa. We were mighty proud of Danbury.
Barb wire fences were unknown in 1884, but an Iowa man invented barbed wire, and then the trouble began. Livestock was not used to barbed wire as they had run free-rein on the prairies for years. Today they are wise, but in the beginning the cuts that they got from the new barbed wire was frightful. A remedy had to be found. I worked in Louck's Drug Store in Danbury 3 years after attending your new school of which Prof. Bowman was principal. The barbed wire remedy was made up of sulfuric acid and turpentine. It took hours to make it as the acid, oil and turpentine certainly got hot. It had to be mixed slowly and in an open vessel outside. The mixture was healing, and it kept flies off the wounds which was very important. One day a farmer rushed into the drug store and said he wanted a gallon of black oil liniment, and he wanted it mighty quick for he was ready to start home to milk the cows. It happened that we had sold the last gallon we had made up. I told him that if he couldn't wait I could put the oil and turpentine in one jug and the sulfuric acid in a bottle. He could put the two of them together slowly when he got home. He said he guessed he knew a thing or two, and as soon as he got out the door he stopped and put the sulfuric acid in the jug. I don't think the farmer or I or anyone else seeing the commotion will ever forget the noise, and what a sight the front of the drug store was after the explosion. It was a mess of black oil liniment.
I have very pleasant memories of Danbury, its schools, its churches, and its people.
Most sincerely,
Clinton R. Dorn
It is true Danbury was always considered the biggest shipping point along the Chicago and Northwestern branch line from Carroll to Onawa. Several other men did as Mr. Dorn, loaned money, and then took produce for payment. W.F. Seibold had cribs of ear corn from the alley to the pump house, west to the end of the street. There were no houses on that street until 1900s. F.H. Hancock had corn cribs along the fence, inside the park, running from east to west. David Tangemen had cribs of corn running north and south behind the public school, a good number of cribs were always on railroad property south of the depot, and there were a number of cribs scattered throughout the town. Renters of these landlords hauled their corn to town as they picked and scooped it into these cribs. In the winter months the corn was shelled and hauled to the elevators or loaded in box cars for shipment to Chicago. I.J. Parks and Jerry Seaman had horse powered shellers. Tony Treiber had a steam sheller (1904). Morgan Township had no shipping point from their township, so farmers there brought their grain to Danbury. The mill, too, helped the grain business. Farmers brought grain, wheat and corn to the mill in exchange for flour. Mr. Durst built a warehouse and elevator to store grain. When the elevator was filled to overflow, the excess grain would be hauled to Danbury and shipped to Chicago.
The Dan Thomas Store from 1873 to 1882 quoted the prices, and they were published every week in the weekly paper. Corn then was 12¢ a bushel, wheat 53¢, hogs $1.75 to $1.79 a hundred, and cattle $1.80 to $2. In 1882 Godfrey Durst quoted the market prices for the community, and everyone honored his judgement. Wheat was 50¢ a bushel in 1886, oats 20¢ a bushel, flour $2 to $2.80 for a 50 lb. sack, potatoes 80¢ a bushel, cattle $4 a hundred, and butchers $2.50 to $3.50.
The first elevators were owned by David Tangeman and Sons (1879), W.F. Seibold and Sons (1882), F.H. Hancock (1891), and the Durst Elevator (1882). These elevators have changed hands many times during the first 100 years. The Tangeman Elevator was small and on present Welte Vault property next to the railroad tracks. That was torn down. W.F. Seibold's first elevator was rebuilt to one much larger capacity. Owners through the years have been W.B. Booher, I.B. Santee and Elzie Tangeman, Michael Burke, Tony Reimer, Nickolaissen, Russell Uhl, and a group of Battle Creek farmers (Farmers Elevator) with Elmer Bertlesen manager. Present owner of elevator is Thomas "Buzz" Sexton.
Large numbers of livestock was shipped by rail to Chicago every year. No one fed large numbers, usually just their own raising, but sometimes feeders would be brought back to Danbury from Chicago. The livestock dealers which were in every town would try to buy the livestock from the farmer, and then he would ship them to Chicago for some profit. Many farmers shipped their own, however. Cattle were driven to Danbury Saturday morning to the railroad stockyards. Hogs were hauled in by wagon. The livestock was then loaded on railroad cars, and about 4:00 p.m. the freight picked them up. Livestock buyers through the years were C.C. Frum, P.C. Keitges, Elzie Tangeman, and M.J. Frum.
Live and dressed poultry, eggs, butter and cream were all shipped to Chicago for a number of years. All food for stores, too, came by rail. Also the cars by 1914.
With all the building, the lumber yards, too, had big business. Lumber, coal, bricks, cement, sand, and building supplies all came by rail. W.F. Seibold sold his lumber yard to William Schneph in 1903. Schneph sold it in 1910 to Iowa-Minnesota Lumber Co. (E.W. Oates, manager). Later a group of farmers bought the yard and William Kinney was made manager. Other owners were William Haubrich and Fullerton Lumber. The Bowman Lumber Co. across the street from Seibold Lumber Yard was owned by a family in Sioux City who had a chain of lumber yards. A.W. Hartsock and W.D. Bennett were one-time managers of the yard. A group of farmers in 1904 were looking for a location to build another lumber yard with P.C. Keitges as manager. When they advertised, Bowmans sold to them. In 1907 P.C. Keitges bought out the stockholders and became sole owner. This yard was known as Maple Valley Lumber Yard. When you think of all the new buildings, the brick, finishing lumber, etc., one wonders what we would have done without the railroads.
Adam Treiber - Clydesdale Horses
Horses were very much in demand from 1775 to 1930. Adam Treiber came to this area in 1877 when the railroad was just being built through the town. Onawa was the closes station when he came from New York with his wife, Bertha and two small daughters. They hired a man with a wagon to haul them to Mapleton. He went to his cousin, George Nick Castle and his aunt and uncle, George and Auntie Castle. He and Bertha and children lived in a dug-out that the Castles had lived in when they first came. Adam finally bought a team of mares and a harness from Q.B. Smith. After buying a wagon, the family drove tot the John Castle farm south of Danbury where John Castle, Uncle George and Auntie Castle were living. John Castle was sick, so agreed to sell his farm to Adam, and the Castles then moved to Danbury which then was still Listonville.
Adam wanted his mares bred as he wanted to raise more horses. One day a wild stallion followed his mares home after grazing on the prairie. He ran the stallion in the barn with his horses. This gave him the idea to raises horses and sell them to other settlers. To get mares bred, he had to travel a long distance. He drove his mares to Onawa to the Ashton farm. Mr. Ashton persuaded Adam to raise Clydesdales, a favorite work horse. Adam started with two mares that cost him $375. This seemed like a lot of money to them, but he soon bought more mares, and he bought a stallion for $1,000 as he planned to raise good horses in order to sell them. As the colts grew up, he would keep the good mares for breeding and sell the geldings. Adam's sons cared for the horses. When old enough to work, they broke them.
Every 2 or 3 years they held an auction and sold as many as 30 horses. The auctions made a lot of work as the tails, manes, hoofs, etc. all had to be trimmed. Sometimes the horses were dec orated with colored ribbons, etc. He held these horse auctions until he retired in 1910. For years he traveled with his stallion providing horse breeding services for others. He sometimes was gone away from home for a week at a time. After he retired, his son, Adam Jr. continued the horse breeding service.
The Dan Thomas Family Leaves Danbury
Ida Thomas had married in 1874, and she left Danbury and went to Moscow, Idaho. Lovina Thomas, oldest daughter, had taught school after finishing school, and in 1878 she married Melvin Chapman, the son of David Chapman. They built the first hotel in Danbury and planned to live there. Sometime before 1881 Lovina's mother and Melvin's father became infatuated with each other. Dan, who had always been so energetic, became a different person and started to be a regular customer seen in the saloons. He took to drinking to forget his own troubles. This made Lovina and her husband very unhappy, so they left Danbury in the winter of 1879 so as to get away from it all. Mary Ann Thomas sued Dan for divorce on the grounds of his being a habitual drunkard. Dan was hesitant about giving his wife a divorce because of this accusation. Several of Danbury's leading citizens appeared in court and vouched for Dan that he had always been a person of reputable character until his home and world started falling apart. She secured her divorce in November of 1881, and she was given custody of the two children still of minor age, Alice and Charlie. David and Mary left Danbury together by train with just their personal belongings. They married after leaving Danbury. They, too, went to Moscow, Idaho, where they homesteaded on 80 acres north of Moscow. The children of Alice and Charley, their older brother Frank and Dan remained here. Alice Thomas, the third girl, married Alonzo Horn about 1884. He was a telegrapher who worked here in the depot for awhile. They also went west, and Alonzo worked for Northern Pacific Railroad and, due to his work, they lived in many different places. Their last years were spent at Rosalie, Washington. Alice died when 85, and Alonzo when 71. Lovina and Melvin Chapman sold their hotel to George N. Castle in December of 1879. They had lost one baby, Danny and had just had a second child, Gertrude Carrie shortly before leaving Danbury. They went by train to San Francisco and by boat to Portland, Oregon. Most of their years were spent in Port Orchard, Washington. They once homesteaded some land, too, at Moscow but later returned to Port Orchard.
Dan Thomas had made an agreement with Chicago and Northwestern Railroad in 1877 that he would give every other lot in the first addition if a station would be built here, and the railroad people had promised that they would extend the railroad from Mapleton to Onawa so the town would have an outlet to the west as well as to the east. The contract had not been filled, and Danbury's only connection with Sioux City was by stage. Dan had vowed that he would not leave Danbury until the contract had been fulfilled. Finally in 1886 the railroad company decided to complete the line. Negotiations to buy land for right of way were started on April 21, 1886. A contract was let for laying the road and work commenced at Mapleton on May 31st. A crew of men also started at Onawa to work this way to meet the crew from Mapleton on July 25th. The track was completed on September 21, 1886. At Onawa, cars could be switched to the Sioux City and Pacific Railroad Line which went on to Sioux City. Dan sold his home place to W.F. Seibold, and he and his two sons, Frank and Charley were the first to travel from here to Sioux City in September 1886.
The two boys, Frank and Charley went to Moscow, Idaho, to visit their mother, step father and sister, Ida. Dan went on to California. Frank Thomas returned to Danbury several years after leaving here to visit his fiancee, Lanie Bowser and to finish some of his father's unfinished business. Lanie Bowser, the daughter of John and Elizabeth Cline Bowser, went to Moscow after she finished school in 1891. Frank and Lanie married on July 29, 1892, in the David Chapman home. Frank and Lanie lived in various places, Moscow, Idaho; Echo and Colville, Washington, and then back to Twin Falls and Princeton, Idaho. While the family was living at Colville in 1905, Dan Thomas returned from California. He was penniless. He lived with his son, Frank and wife Lanie the rest of his life. He died on October 4, 1911, when 78 years old. Charlie Thomas lived with his mother and step father until he finished school. He then went to the University of Idaho. He taught school for a few years but found wages poor, so he became a gas distributor and sold insurance. He married Dora Bond. David and Mary Chapman retired to Moscow. Mary Ann had a paralytic stroke during the summer of 1917 and became a total invalid. David died on September 14, 1917, when he was 87. Mary Ann was moved to her son's Frank's home and he, his wife, Lanie and a sister, Ida took care of her for 4 years. Mary Chapman died on March 6, 1921, at the age of 83.
Even though Dan Thomas came back from California a poor man, he had lived a rich and rewarding life. Dan was a man of large physical stature. He was kind-hearted, unselfish and intelligent. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate than he. The town of Danbury grew because of his generosity and interest. He served in many capacities, first Justice of the Peace, first postmaster, first storekeeper, and first mayor of Danbury. He was a farmer, carpenter, mason, mailman, and bookkeeper. He gave his land in payment for a station here. He saw that the town was incorporated during his first term as mayor, and, last of all, he gave his name to the town. He was very proud of this. The editor of The Danbury News of Danbury, Connecticut, once printed that Danbury, Iowa, had conceived its name from Danbury, Connecticut. Mr. Thomas, when back east, called on the editor and told him that he wanted it understood that Danbury, Iowa, had not been named after Danbury, Connecticut, and he wanted to explain to him how it was so named. The name of Dan Thomas has never been forgotten. Each year the story of his generosity and goodness is passed on to a new group of students in our schools. The old times had nothing but praise for him. A great man. May his soul rest in peace. Dan is buried at Potlatch, Idaho.
Our Schools And Churches 1884-1888
In 1884 the Catholics built a rectory for Mr. Meagher west of the new St. Patrick's Church, about in the center of the block. There had been many Catholics coming, and their children had attended the Danbury Public School. Pans were made in the spring of 1887 to build an 8-grade parochial school. They built a two-story wooden frame building 30'x90.' The building cost $5,000, and it was ready for occupancy on September 5, 1887. The school was staffed by Presentation Sisters of Dubuque, IA, and Mother Cecilia was in charge of the school. The school was built on the northwest corner of the church property, and it was called St. Patrick's Academy. It had an attendance of 85 the first year. The Danbury Catholics found themselves deeply in debt with $12,000 on the church and rectory and now $5,000 on the school. A barn had also been built to the north of the church. Fr. Meagher had several horses as he had to drive to several missions. White birch trees had been planted on the parking around the church property, and there was a white picket fence around the Academy. The Academy had a reputation of being a good school, and many families moved here so that their children could attend school here.
The Methodists had built the church in 1881, and Rev. James Torbet was the first minister to use the church. He served both Danbury and Mapleton from 1883-1885. Some comments of his were found on old records taken from Mapleton Milestones:
"I was appointed to the Mapleton-Danbury charge in September 1883. At that time the charge came to be known as Mapleton-Danbury. Arrived on work almost immediately being a transfer from the Northern Ohio Conference. I was unacquainted with the west, have done what I could considering all the circumstances and making emphatic my own weaknesses.
Our Schools And Churches 1884-1888
The Methodists had built the church in 1881, and Rev. James Torbet was the first minister to use the church. He served both Danbury and Mapleton from 1883-1885. Some comments of his were found on old records taken from Mapleton Milestones:
"My family had been sick most of the time. Much of my time during my pastorate here was taken by them which otherwise might have been employed profitably in church work. Our little boy 6 years and 5 months sleeps in the cemetery.
"The form of our circuit was changed at the Conference of 1884, and our missionary money was withheld (stopped). Belvidere was put in the Onawa charge. Our salary this year was $700, but it is quite evident that $50 will remain unpaid. Work at present includes Mapleton and Danbury and 3 school appointments, Cooper Center, Pleasant Hill Center, and Priesters Maple Township. Our greatest need is scriptural revival, and next to that a genuine love of our own church and loving adherence to its method of work. We are too dead and too cold, and I fear not a few sleep the sleep of death. Finally, it behooves my successor to be wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove. We need S.S. work and some good plan of finance should be at once adopted. Our stewards are first absorbed in business and second don't seem very good at collecting."
Rev. Stires came to the circuit in 1885. He held a revival meeting in Danbury for 4 weeks and one at Mapleton for 9 weeks. He reported over 80 conversions at Mapleton and 35 at Danbury. He received $800 per year. He was a lover of horses and owned trotting horses. Rev. Allnut followed Rev. Stires, and he was the first minister to live in Danbury. He lived in a small house on the east side of Main Street. Rev. W.J. Gardner was here in 1887 and Rev. W.W. Brown in 1888.
Joseph Shoup, first professor of the public school, left Danbury at the completion of the school year 1885-1886. He was then elected to the office of Woodbury County Superintendent. He also was in charge of the Normal Institutes each summer. Teachers had to go to these institutes in order to keep up their certificates. He served on many educational committees, and he also published a monthly magazine, The Woodbury County Teacher. The Shoups moved to Sioux City after he was elected to this office. Danbury regretted his going as he was a very capable man. When he was county superintendant, he came to visit Danbury quite often. He traveled with horse and buggy as he had so many country schools to visit. Prof. Bowman replaced Joseph Shoup.
New Businesses
1884-1888
Joseph O'Dougherty - Sold real estate and insurance. He, too, was a learned man. He became Justice of Peace after Dan Thomas, and he served in that capacity for 15 years. He settled many an argument between settlers. He was not a lawyer, but he was very wise and fair. The Justice of Peace office then was a very responsible one. He acted sort of like a judge. Many accusations of wrongdoing were settled in his office after he heard the arguments from both sides.
Calvin Pierce - Undertaker and Hardware. He came in early 1880s. It is believed he built the wooden frame building to the north of Cameron's Hardware. His wife and Mrs. Richard Loucks were sisters. He was a Quaker.
John Kampmeyer - In 1886 he was a storekeeper. John was a son of Henry and Mary Lake Kampmeyer, and he was born on June 28, 1859. When he was nine he came to Clayton County with his parents. He first was employed at a store in New Vienna, Dubuque, Co. After working 3 years in a store he took a classical course in a college at Prairie du Chien, WI. He then worked in a store 3 more years. He married Mary Jordan, daughter of Anthony and Margaret Nihil Jordan. He and Mary came to Danbury when Mr. Wilkinson was building Wilkinson Block, and he and Mr. Adams took over the management of that store when it was finished, known as Adams and Kampmeyer. In 1889 John bought out Mr. Adams, and Mr. Kampmeyer then managed Kampmeyer Hall, years 1888-1889.
Wilkinson Block, A.J. Wilkinson - A.J. Wilkinson was a farmer who came here in 1879, and he bought the farm presently owned by Arnold Ortner. He was born on July 2, 1840, in Sangamon, IL. When he was 2, he moved with his parents to Jo Daviess Co., IL. He once walked across the state of Iowa and back home again. In 1869 he started farming in Stephenson Co., IL, but not so successful, so he moved on to Boone, IA. Here he farmed for 4 years. He married Myra Leet. In 1879 he moved on west to Danbury, IA, and bought land. They had 5 children, George, Estey, Sherman, Theon, and Norman. Norman was sickly, and they wanted to take him back to Illinois where they thought there were better doctors. He died while they were en route to Illinois. This family was held in high esteem by everyone. A.J. was always interested in seeing progress, and he did his share to accomplish that. He served as County Commissioner, Justice of Peace, Town Treasurer, Director of Danbury Public School Board, and as secretary of Danbury's first real bank. He could see Danbury needed a bank because of the high interest rates charged by those who had money to loan. He built the first brick building in Danbury in 1888. It was a two-story multi-purpose building housing a bank, store, entertainment hall, and an apartment and some offices. A stairway to the upstairs separated the store from the bank. The Danbury Review took rooms in the basement, and the telephone office was upstairs. All material to build the bank was shipped in: Brick, granite, pillars, lumber, bank safe, etc. This was quite a spacious building when built in 1888. Mr. Wilkinson then organized a bank. It had a capital of $40,000, and a fair and universal interest rate was charged. First officers were President Alex McHugh, Vice President A.J. Santee, Secretary A.J. Wilkinson. A.J. Santee died on September 20, 1889, and then new officers were chosen, President William Booher, Cashier I.B. Santee, and Board of Directors John H. Crilly and William D. Gibson.
William Gibson - 1888. W.D. Gibson and wife Jennie Thomas Gibson and family came from Irvin, IA. Mr. Gibson worked in the Shepard, Field and Cook Store when I.B. Santee left to work in the bank. In 1904 he became partners with J.H. Crilly. In 1907 W.D. Gibson accepted a position in The Danbury State Bank, and he then sold his half interest in the store to John Crilly. The Gibsons had two daughters, Mabel and Orral. Mable was interested in music and attended Morningside College. She taught music. Orral married E.P. Morlan, a former school superintendent at Danbury. Jennie Gibson died and was buried in the Danbury cemetery. Mable secured a teaching position in Long Beach, CA, in 1923, and she and her father then moved to California.
P.C. Keitges - 1884. Pierre came to Danbury when a single man. He had rooms in the Castle Hotel. He bought and sold livestock, sold insurance, worked as a carpenter, and was finally a contractor. He married Ellen Kennedy.
Clerks for Liston Township - J.S. Shoup 1883, Walter Hand 1884-1886, and A.W. Hartsock 1886, 1887, and 1888.
Entertainment
The Ringling Brothers Circus visited Danbury twice, in 1887 and 1889. The circus then traveled from town to town with 14 wagons. They set up their tent on Main Street north of the Commercial Hotel. The circus drew a large crowd, and although small, the performers put on a wonderful show.
CHAPTER VIII
A Change in the Town's Image
Mayor F.J. Innskeep 1888-1890
Mayor J.H. Ostrom
1890-1894
The town had changed a great deal by 1888. There were business places on both the east and west sides of Main Street. The buildings were all wooden buildings except for Wilkinson Block which was a brick structure which was built in 1888. Henry and Pat Fitzpatrick built the second brick structure on Main Street, and new hardware built in 1889. W.C. Cameron's Hardware which adjoined Wilkinson Block was built, too, about this time. Many trees had now been planted about town. Soon after Wilkinson Block was built, new cement sidewalks were built on Main Street, and the tie racks on Main Street were removed. The first telephone had been installed in Loucks Drug Store in 1890, and soon after, telephone service was available to all that wanted it. New methods of fighting fires were available in 1892, and the first fire department was organized.
Dan and Mary Thomas who platted the town with the help of Blair Town and Lot Company had given the railroad every other lot in the First Addition in 1877. A Second Addition was added to the town, then the Tangeman and Seibold Additions, and in later years, 1919, the town bought the Burke Addition from Michael and Celesta Burke, 41 lots. The wells on Main Street were still in use, and a large tank on Main and Second Street intersection was always filled with water in case of fire in the town. The Thomases had planned that the town should expand to the north, Thomas, Main and Liston Streets all to extend on north into the Dan Thomas property and on the north of Danbury. Instead of growing north, it grew in an east and west direction. When Roller Banner Mills were built by Godfrey Durst in 1882, there was heavy traffic along Salisbury Street which extended from the present Lawrence Schimer corner to the Mill. The city fathers thought this would become a popular street and many homes would be built along that street. Godfrey Durst did build several houses for his employees near the mill, also a new home for himself and wife Orient and homes for his sons Mark and Godfrey after they married. There were several houses built at the west end of Salisbury Street, also, but the entire street filled with homes never materialized.
Salisbury Street was named after a family that lived on that street. Wilkens Street was also named after a family. Liston Street was named after Liston Township. Walnut Street was so call because of the many walnut trees on that street. Woodbury Street was named after our county. Thomas Street was so named because the Dan Thomas family lived on that street.
Danbury then could not be classed as a "City Beautiful." Sometimes the streets were dry and dusty, and at other times wet and muddy. In the spring the ruts on the streets were axle deep. Many dumped the ashes from their stoves on the streets. There were manure piles beside the liveries. Cows, horses, pigs, chickens, ducks, etc. at one time had free rein all over town. There were no beautiful lawns. The grass usually went to seed, and lawns were not mowed. When the fairs were first held, many of the women became interested in flowers, trees and grass. The town council made some ordinances to make Danbury more sanitary. One ordinance was to prevent accumulation of filth in streets and alleys, empty lots, etc. If not kept clean by the owner of the property, the town marshall could be ordered to clean up hog pens, privies, barns, lots, cellars, garbage, filth, dead animals, manure, rotting corn and cob piles, etc. the owner was given a notice and 24 hours to get his property cleaned up. If not, the marshall did it and the owner was taxed. Another ordinance stated it was unlawful to destroy flowers in the park or mutilate the buildings, playground, trees or fences in the park. There was a $100 fine or 30 days in jail as punishment. The state passed a sanitary law in early 1900s that all hitching posts on Main Street had to be removed, but Danbury had removed them before the state law was passed. An ordinance was passed, too, that animals and poultry had to be penned.
The town residences looked much different in 1890 than they do today. Every lot was fenced. Nearly every family had a pen of chickens, a milk cow, and a team of horses. There was a small barn, coal or cob shed, and a toilet besides the house. There was a well and a soft water system on each lot. The families having horses and cows paid the town pasture rent in summers and let the animals graze in the park after it was acquired in 1891. A hitching post was essential.
CHAPTER VIII A Change in the Town's Image Persons not having a milk cow could buy milk from the Dickinson family. Lester Dickinson, son of L.D. and Wilhamine Dickinson, was Danbury's first milk man. They lived on the farm presently owned by Mable Johnson. Lester came to Danbury with his parents when about 10 years old, 1881. Since the Dickinson had more milk than they could use, they strained the milk into cans and hauled the milk to Danbury. He went up one street and down the other, ringing a bell as the wagon progressed up the street. When the housewife heard the bell ringing, she came out to the street with her milk pitcher, and Lester measured out a quart, a gallon, or whatever she wanted with a measuring can which he had attached to his milk can. Different times through the he years, the families who lived on the edge of town sold milk. At night one often saw persons walking with a pail to ne one of the farms to get milk. The New State Telephone Company 1890 People in and around Danbury were as excited about getting a telephone as they were when they knew the railroad was coming into town. Actually, the first families to have a telephone lived east of Danbury. Ollie Spotts of Ida County lived on the present Wayne Steinbach farm in Garfield Township. Ollie was interested in mechanics, and he ordered a telephone kit with instructions as to how to install the equipment. He strung lines to some of his neighbors and carried on conversations with them, one family being the Albert and Margaret McBride family. Ollie had a switchboard of a sort in his home. The New State Telephone Company sent men into Danbury in 1890 to build telephone lines, install a switchboard, etc. The switchboard was installed in the Walter Hand Hardware and Tin Shop. Richard Loucks was the first person in Danbury to have a telephone. The business grew fast. The telephone company rented rooms on the second floor of the Wilkinson block (over bank) and moved their telephone office there. Flora Betts was hired as the first switchboard operator, and Sue and Lanie Hayden were her assistants. There was always a night shift then, and someone or possibly two stayed on duty all night. There was a manager and also two repair men on constant duty. Berdette Harvey was switchboard operator in the Hand Store. The repair men, besides first stringing all telephone lines, had to repair them when trees fell on them, when there was a bad storm, and they had to install new batteries in the telephones when the batteries got too old. Chester Watkins and William Pershing were district managers. The telephone was used differently then. Markets, weather reports, auctions, coal car on track, a show, a dance, a circus or a funeral were all announced over the telephone. An extremely long ring meant an announcement of some kind was about to be made and everyone on the line was instructed to lift the receiver to hear the announcement after the ringing stopped. The pronouncement of peace ending World War I was announced over the telephone. The first long distance telephone call was to Omaha, Nebraska, in 1895. Gene McGarrity and Oscar Carlson helped to string some of telephone and telegraph lines through the country. Schools During the years 1885-1891 Prof. William H. Dempster, Prof. Overmeir, and Prof. J.F. Young headed the Danbury Public School System which, during those years, had but a 3 year high school. Supt. H.H. Hahn came to Danbury as superintendent in 1891. It was during his stay that the public school became an accredited 4 year high school. Subjects taught in high school then were Mathematics 4 years (Algebra, Geometry, Advanced Algebra, and Commercial Arithmetic); English 4 years; Science 4 years; History (Ancient Medieval, American); Sociology; Civics; Economics; Agriculture; Home Economics; and Manual Training. The Country Schools As the population grew, more school districts were formed. The county superintendent was the supervisor of all town and country schools. Joseph Shoup, who was Danbury's first high school superintendent, was elected to be the county superintendent in 1890. His duties were to select the books to be used in the school's curriculum. He made the decisions as to salaries to be paid the teachers and hired some teachers. His duty was to visit every school in the county yearly. He traveled all through the county with horse and buggy visiting the schools. He usually stayed at the home of the director of the school overnight. He received $4 a day for his work. It was compulsory for all teachers to attend Normal Institute for three weeks every summer. The institutes were held in Smithland, Correctionville, and Sioux City. When a school's enrollment dropped below 5, the school was closed, and the children wanting to go to school had to go to another school. By 1899 there were 27 independent school districts in Woodbury County. There were 36 country schools with 847 pupils. The districts, number of schools, and number of pupils were the following:
| District | # Schools | # Pupils |
|---|---|---|
| Green Mound | 1 | 23 |
| Harmon | 1 | 33 |
| Spring Dale | 1 | 26 |
| Union | 1 | 27 |
| Little Sioux | 1 | 35 |
| Lum Hollow | 1 | 23 |
| Park Hill | 1 | 15 |
| Twin Creek | 1 | 35 |
| Denmark | 1 | 35 |
| Liberty | 1 | 30 |
| Lone Elm | 1 | 32 |
| Webster | 1 | 19 |
| Weed Land | 1 | 60 |
| Union Grove | 3 | 34 |
| Habana | 1 | 35 |
| Bluff Center | 1 | 30 |
| Fair Play | 1 | 28 |
| Hickory Grove | 1 | 12 |
| Living Springs | 1 | 37 |
| Pleasant Valley | 1 | 33 |
| Pat Collins | 1 | 23 |
| Lone Tree | 5 | 86 |
| No. 4 | 1 | 26 |
| Ridgeville | 3 | 49 |
| Summit | 2 | 32 |
| Summer Hill | 1 | 24 |
| West Union | 1 | 10 |
Attendance In Danbury Schools 1890 Danbury Public School -There were 210 pupils with an average attendance of 150. The older boys especially did not attend school regularly. St. Patrick's Academy - Attendance at St. Patrick's in 1890 was 98 pupils. St. Patrick's became an 11-grade school 1889-1890. From 1887 to 1889 there had just been the 8 grades. The subjects taught were Algebra, Geometry, Bookkeeping, Civil Government, and 3 years of English. The first person to graduate from the 11-grade high school was Lulu Kennedy in 1893. In 1894 there were four graduates, Henry Fitzpatrick, Mary Craig Skahill, Lizzie Welte (Mrs. John Uhl), and Kate Callighan. Danbury Park and Fair Association 1891 The city park was once a segment of the Dan Thomas farm. W.F. Seibold became the owner of this property when Dan Thomas left Danbury. The city council of Danbury purchased 20 acres from Mr. Seibold in 1891, paying $2,000 for the parcel. This amount of ground seemed inadequate, so 10 more acres were purchased. A fair association wanted to rent the park for a period of 10 years for $200 a year. The council figured if they rented the park it would belong to the town at the end of the 10 year period at practically no cost. The following men attend the fair association meeting: I.B. Santee, A.A. Stowell, J.H. Ostrom, C.A. Segar, G.N. Castle, John Herrington, J.A. Keleher, R.H. Loucks, and Dietrick Tangeman. Officers elected were President I.B. Santee, Secretary George Nicholas Castle, Supt. of Park Association John Herrington. At a meeting on August 8, 1891, J.H. Ostrom was appointed to see to the building of a horse track. George N. Castle was appointed to see to the fencing and building of a judge's stand and band stand. He worked in cooperation with M.D. Cord who was a trustee of the town of Danbury. On August 29, 1891, Danbury held its first horse racing events. It was a half-mile track rated excellent because of its firm bed. The first race was between High Licence owned by J.L. Livermore of Oto and William Lound's horse from Castana. The purse was $50, and betting was lively. A 2-day tournament was held October 9-10, 1891. It featured horse racing and baseball. In 1892 the fair association decided to incorporate under the laws of Iowa, and the Danbury District Agricultural Society was born. Danbury would have a fair in the fall of 1892. To prepare the park for the fair, 15 exhibit buildings had to be built through the summer. Twelve stables for the horses were built at the southeast corner of the park, and a scale was built near the stables. A grandstand was built by George Castle, father of Nicholas Castle. The "Criterion," Danbury newspaper said, "The grandstand was built in 1892, and it was called the best ampitheatre in Northwest Iowa with a seating capacity of 500. It was built by the Agricultural Society, George Castle in charge of the building." A large number of trees were also planted in the park. Many of the women of Danbury helped with this project. The judges and the signal man were in the judge's stand at the time of a race. A signal man shot a gun, signaling the racers that the race had started. The judges decided who was the winner. The fair premium books were issued, and the fair was set for days September 7-10. The officers of the first fair board were President J.H. Ostrom, Vice President J.G. Tangeman, Secretary I.B. Santee, Treasurer P.H. Loucks, and the directors were C.A. Segar, J.A. Keleher, A.A. Stowell, John Herrington, and Pierre Keitges. There were 12 divisions in which premiums were offered. People having charge of these divisions were the following:
| A.L. Wilkinson | Horses |
| S.A. Webb | Cattle |
| A.J. Santee | Sheep |
| W.D. Gibson | Poultry |
| W.C. Cameron | Machinery and Mechanical Arts |
| Mrs. I.B. Santee | Household and Fine Arts |
| L.H. Valentine | Grain, Seed, and Vegetables |
| Mrs. J.G. Tangeman | Dairy Products and Pantry Supplies |
| S.M. Iddings | Bees, Honey and Mercantile Goods |
| Nicholas Gamb | Fruit |
| Mrs. L.H. Valentine | Plants, Flowers, Floral Ornaments |
The fair days were gala days for Danbury. Some of the fair attractions that drew large crowds were the appearance of Charlie Chaplin, the ascension of a balloon and a parachute jump, and Dan Patch, the famous race horse. Jockeys and horses came by rail from all over the state. Local horses known to have competed were Brown Dan owned by Kelehers, Bally owned by Mr. Jenkie of Salix, and Ketchup owned by a Castana farmer. W.C. Cameron and A.A. Stowell of Danbury owned trotting horses which they always entered in the harness racing event. A.A. Stowell's horse was known as Iowa Fallis. A.A. Stowell's grandson said Iowa Fallis was entered in every race, and his grandfather always bet on him, but his horse never won a race. Mr. Stowell went broke, and he left Danbury with a 14 year old son, a wagon, a horse and a mule after the death of his wife in 1897. He had owned 80 acres of the Hoyt farm. R.V. West served as superintendent of Speed at these races. The exhibits at these fairs were always an attraction. There was always a baseball game with a neighboring town, and betting at ball games was as popular with the men as betting at the horse races. Admission to the fair was 25¢ for adults and 15¢ for children. Fairs were discontinued in 1898. The Danbury race track was considered too small for horse racing. The race track and the fair exhibit buildings were destroyed in 1904. The park continued to be a popular place for baseball games, picnics, band concerts, bowery dances, etc. Part of the park in summers was rented out as pasture to town citizens who had horses or a cow. Cornet band The exact year of the organization of the band is unknown, but Danbury had a band in some of the first July 4th celebrations and always marched in the parade and gave a concert. Each year new members joined and others dropped out. Persons in the first band known were Dan Newcomer, Joe and Jake Welte, Arthur Powell, John Boyer, Otto A. Schrank, Pat Scanlon, John Schrepher, C.L. Adams, Clem Dessel, George Mohrhauser who placed the bass drum, and Pat Scanlon's son who played the snare drums.
Danbury Public School Organizes an Alumni Association
The Danbury Public School was made a 4-year accredited school (high school) in 1890 when H.H. Hahn was professor. There were two persons in the first senior class to graduate, 1891, Mahala Tangeman (Mrs. Ace Nicholls) and J.L. Boyer. In 1892 there were 10 members in the senior class. They were Elyfa Smith Richards, Alice Loucks Jepson, Anna Bowser Herrington, Nettie Thompson Innskeep, Sedona Fessenbeck Nelson, Edward Seibold, Estey Wilkinson, Charles Carroll, Lester Dickinson, and William Smith.
It was the Class of 1892 that organized the alumni association. The class felt that a warm friendship should be formed between the alumni and the new graduates. They thought some form of reception should be given each class upon graduation. An association was organized on December 25, 1893, and a committee of three was appointed to draw up a constitution. Graduates were not compelled to join. The first officers appointed were President Edward Seibold, Secretary Seda Fessenbeck, and Treasurer Louis Larsen.
A banquet was not always the rule, and the receptions in the past were held in various places. In 1896 a lawn party was held on the Loucks' lawn, and the refreshments were ice cream, lemonade, cake and fruit. The waitresses were May Cameron, Leola Canty (Mrs. Millard Frum), Fred Thompson, and Max Castle. Someone suggested that Mahala Tangeman and Elyfa Smith sing a duet at this reception, but some thought singing was out of order at this event. Senior graduates then had to write a speech and deliver it at the reception. In 1899 a picnic was held in the Danbury park. In June 1895 a banquet was held in Kampmeyer Hall (Braiggs Hall) and 25 persons were present. Rental charge for the hall was $3.
In 1900 the association decided to have a social to raise money for the banquet. A meeting was held in the William Smith home, and the members on the committee hired a rig at the livery to take them to the Smith farm home. They raised $11.50 at the social, and, minus the $2 they paid the livery, they had $9.50 to spend on the banquet. A Mrs. Sisk who operated the dining room of the Commercial Hotel served the dinner for them for $10.
Banquets were held in the Methodist Church basement, Braigg Hall, and the Masonic Hall through the years before the building of the public school in 1929. The high school cheer was first used at the alumni receptions, later in sports. Junior girls served as waitresses as early as 1917, and it became custom. The first graduates paid a fee to join, and you had to do some act planned by a committee as initiation. All members paid an entrance fee to attend. Fees ranged from 50¢ in the early days to $1.50 in later years. In 1941 the entertainment was dancing and Bingo. These receptions were discontinued in 1960 when the Danbury Public school merged with Mapleton Public School. In 1967 a committee decided to have a banquet every 3 years so as to meet the new graduates and visit with old friends.
Old Settlers Picnic 1892
Two men from Danbury thought up the idea of a picnic each year in commemoration of the old settlers. The idea grew, and the towns along the Maple and Little Sioux rivers joined the association. The towns Mapleton, Onawa, Smithland, Oto, Anthon, Correctionville, and Danbury agreed to take turns and celebrated the event annually. F.L. Hills, formerly of Cork Hill, gave a speech at Smithland in 1931 when celebrating the Old Settlers Picnic and Woodbury County's Diamond Jubilee.
F.L. Hills' speech: "Thirty nine years ago this fall, the idea of having an Old Settlers Picnic originated in the minds of Patrick Collins and George Castle of Danbury, Iowa. The first picnic was held in Danbury in 1892. My parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Hills with their three children came to Woodbury County from Vermont in the Fall of 1866 a short time after the Civil War. At that time I was 10 years old. We left the train at Denison where we were met by Dave Phillips with his covered wagon. We stopped the first night with the Dowd family who lived on Soldier Creek. Our property consisted of a piece of prairie land about 2 1/2 miles north of Oto, Iowa. Our neighbors were Mot Rogers, Nathan Zerfling, Chris and Hank Moyer, Parley Morris, Buel Chapman, John Rose, S.R. Day, Palm Rogers, Minor Mead, Abe Livermore, Michael and Patrick Collins, John Donnery, James Miller, Henry Arnold, Billy O'Connell, and John Curtin.
Money was scarce in those days. Nearly everyone went the year round without money in their pockets. Everyone raised a little stock and occasionally a farmer would sell a cow or steer to get enough money to pay taxes or get a few necessities. There were no banks. Taxes were from $12 to $18 on 160 acres of land. A man's word was as good as his note. Men wore blue jeans, hickory colored shirts, cowhide boots, and some men wore overalls. The women wore calico dresses, sun bonnets, and black cotton stockings. From 1867 to approximately 1872, there was an invasion of grasshoppers here. They damaged the crops every year, and at times they became so thick in their flight that the sky darkened. A railroad was built to Woodbine in 1866, and it was extended to Council Bluffs and Omaha in 1867. In 1868 John I. Blair built the Sioux City and Pacific Road from Missouri Valley to Sioux City. The Fort Dodge and Sioux City and the Illinois Central lines were built into Sioux City 2 years later.
Some of the families living on the west side of the river at Smithland were William Thurman, Thomas Bower, Willard Smity, and Peter Gambs. Smithland citizens were O.B. Smith, Rev. D.P. Billings, Alvy Smith, William McDonald, Dr. McCall, Lew John, and Ed Yockey. Those on the east side of the river were Phil Oregon, Elijah Adams, Ike Thurman, Nicholas Gambs, Dave Wellington, and Jimmie McDonald. Several men and families visited the valley in 1867, and the visitors were Henry Gillet, William Fergason, Jerald Fergason, Wesley Davis, M.J.P. Jennes, Mot Jones, John Rollings, Sterl Wonder, and Jackson Hall."
The Old Settlers Day was always well attended. There were parades, speeches, ball games, races, horse shoe, old fiddlers contests, picnic dinner, several band concerts, and rides for the children. Everyone had a good time and especially the oldsters who enjoyed seeing old friends and visiting. It is known that Danbury entertained on August 26, 1908; Mapleton in 1909; Onawa in 1910; Smithland in 1911; Oto in 1912; Anthon in 1913; Correctionville in 1914; Danbury in 1915 and again in 1932 when the town was 50 years old from its corporation date.
A tragedy occurred at one celebration at Danbury when the balcony of Loucks' Drug Store collapsed. Mr. Loucks had warned that the balcony was not safe if too many persons were on it. People did not heed his warning, and the balcony did collapse in 1908. The persons on the balcony were not hurt as badly as those underneath. This caused quite an excitement as everyone feared members of their family might be hurt. Two persons were seriously hurt, Mrs. Lee (Elizabeth) Collins and Mr. O'Day. Mr. O'Day died shortly after the accident, and they thought he had been hurt internally. Several others were hurt, but not seriously.
Danbury Baseball
The Rush Creek settlement had a baseball club during the 1880s. The town of Danbury organized a team sometime before 1890 as there was an article in The Danbury Review in 1890 that told of a dance being held for the club.
"On October 21, 1890, a baseball dance to be held at Wilkinson Hall, Danbury, Iowa. There will be good music and the best of prompting. Committees appointed were Invitations John Crilly, Ed Tangeman and Thomas Grafford; and Floor Managers J.G. Tangeman and S.H. Santee. Tickets were 50¢."
Joe Welte said these dances were called Programme Dances. About 12 musical numbers were pre-arranged for square dancing. Programs were printed for the ladies so they could keep track of their dances. A prompter was the caller for the dance, and the floor manager set up the squares, four couples to a square.
The Rush Creek and Danbury clubs both had uniforms, and they often played each other. They also competed with the surrounding towns.
Eastern Star
September 11, 1890
Chapter 84 of the Order of Eastern Star was granted its charter September 11, 1890. The first meetings were held in the Dan Thomas Hall or above Crilly-Gibson Store. Meetings were held in a lamp-lit room. Officers chosen in 1890 were Worthy Patron Jessie N. Smith, Associate Matron Stella Ostrom, and Worthy Patron Clem C. Yockey.
Charter members of this organization were J.H. Ostrom, Lydia Ostrom, Stella Ostrom, G.N. Castle, C.C. Yockey, R.H. Loucks, Maggie Randall, Kate Smith, W.C. Cameron, Susie N. Cameron, Lillie Randall, G.W. Murphy, C.A. Segar, and M.A. Segar.
This organization celebrated its 75th anniversary on November 22, 1965.
German-Lutheran Church
There were a number of German Lutheran families in Danbury, some in the Rush Creek settlement and some at Midway. A committee was appointed, and they decided to build a church and rectory in 1891. Two lots were purchased from the R.R. Land Co. for $40, and a third lot was either purchased or donated by W.F. Seibold on October 1, 1891. A church was built, and the rectory was the present Cliff Van Houten home, both on Thomas Street. Plans were to build a barn also on the property. Church services were held there 1891-1896, and a resident minister lived in the rectory during those years. The membership did not seem to grow, and there were financial difficulties. The property was sold to J.J. Witt in 1896. Most of these families then attended the Methodist Episcopal Church.
J.J. Witt sold the German Catholics this property on January 4, 1898.
Methodist Ministers
The Mapleton and Danbury records differ somewhat as to years certain ministers served the communities. The same minister took care of both parishes as we were on a circuit together. G.M. Dudley and Homer Dudley were mentioned following Rev. Allnut. Eben S. Johnson was appointed for years 1889-1891.
Eben S. Johnson was responsible for the building of the Parsonage for Methodist ministers. This was quite a sacrifice for the Danbury congregation; as it was quite small. When he left Danbury he became presiding elder in the First Methodist Church in Sioux City. He lived in the parsonage a short while.
Rev. Edison Tatlow, first resident Minister, 1891-1892.
Rev. Thomas Maxwell 1892-1893.
Danbury Organizes Fire Department 1892
Nearly all the towns along the Maple Valley organized and had fire departments. Members went to get ideas from other fire departments if the neighboring town was holding a drill or giving suggestions. Danbury's Co. was called hose Co., No. 1, and it had 22 members. They now hauled water on a wagon. Barrels filled with water were on wagon and always ready to go. A pump pumped the water from tanks onto the fire. It was not until 1898 that the first water works were laid and we had fire hydrants at least in the downtown area.
New Business Men
W.C. Cameron and wife Susie Cameron came in 1889, and Mr. Cameron built the second brick building north of the Wilkinson Building. He opened up a hardware there and operated it until 1904. The Camerons were horse enthusiasts. They had trotting horses. Mr. Cameron also built a new home on the lot presently owned by Lloyd Creswell, and it was considered a very spacious home. He built a barn on the lot for his horses, and the barn was similar in architectural lines to the house. Mr. Cameron was here during the fair days, and he always entered his horses in the races, and it was common to see him and Mrs. Cameron out training and driving the horses. They were of Methodist faith. They sold out to George Braig in 1904.
Dr. G. W. Murphy M.D. came in 1888. He was born in Epworth, IA, Dubuque Co., on September 3, 1859. His parents of Irish descent came from Cork Co., Ireland. The family came to the U.S. in 1854 and then came on west to Menlo, IA, where they farmed. George Murphy attended Simpson College in Indianola, IA, and in 1884 he obtained his B.S. degree. He graduated from the School of Medicine at State University of Iowa in 1888. He came to Danbury after graduation. He married Emma Seibold, a school teacher. Emma was the daughter of W.F. Seibold and his wife Elizabeth. They had two children, Wier who was born on April 4, 1896, and Elizabeth who was born on February 10, 1901. Doctor Murphy was a very intelligent man. He wrote several articles on medicine which were published in the Medical Journal. He discovered the ÒSister Kenny TreatmentÓ long before discovered by the Sister. In fact he used it when I was a child, about 1916, after I had blood poisoning and he feared I would be crippled for life.
Dan Newcomer and Con Keleher - A confectionery, two story building, was built on the west side of Main St. about 1888, about the time that saloons went out. They had an ice cream parlor, sold drinks, cigars, roasted peanuts, candy and some groceries. The upstairs of this building was rented out to roomers, and Dr. Richards had his dental office there until 1911 when the Danbury Trust and Savings Bank was built.
| Township Clerks: | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1889-1891 | C.C. Yockey | ||||
| 1891-1892 | I.B. Santee | ||||
| 1892-1895 | J.L. Killian | ||||
| Danbury Main Street 1890-1892 | |||||
| Mayor | J.H. Ostrom | ||||
| Trustees | Samuel Boyer | ||||
| C.F. Kueny | |||||
| Walter Hand | |||||
| William R. Reinhold | |||||
| M.D. Cord | |||||
| John Kampmeyer | |||||
| Recorder | C.F. Seibold | ||||
| Men In Business | |||||
| Elevators | Godfrey Durst Sr. | ||||
| - Roller Banner Mills | |||||
| and Elevator | W.F. Seibold - Elevator and | ||||
| Dealer in Grain | W. B. Booher - Dealer | ||||
| in Grain 1892 | |||||
| Lumber Yards | W.F. Seibold | David Tangeman | H. Bowman Lumber Co. | ||
| General Merchandise Stores | Seibold Brothers | ||||
| C.C. Cook - Bought out | Shepard and Field | ||||
| John Kampmeyer | |||||
| Jacob Welte | |||||
| V.D. Lyons and Son - | |||||
| Grocery Store | |||||
| Postmaster | V.D. Lyons | ||||
| Drug Store | R.H. Loucks | ||||
| Hardware and Tin Shop | |||||
| Walter Hand | |||||
| Grocery | J.B. Hash | ||||
| Hardware, Furniture and Buggies | |||||
| W.B. Booher sold out | |||||
| to David Tangeman 1892 | |||||
| Harness and Saddlery | |||||
| H.T. Wilcox | |||||
| Confectionery and Restaurant | D.B. Newcomer | ||||
| and Con Keleher | |||||
| Blacksmith Shops | 3 | ||||
| Barbers | J.B. Howe | ||||
| and J. Millington | |||||
| Jewelry Shop | |||||
| Willibald Endres | |||||
| Millinery | Mrs. C.C. Frum | ||||
| Meat Market | J.H. Hart | ||||
| Variety Store | R.R. Glassey | ||||
| Shoemaker | |||||
| Theodore Litzelschwab | |||||
| Livestock Dealers | |||||
| P.C. Keitges | C.C. Frum | ||||
| Livery Stable | |||||
| Bray and Drea | |||||
| Hotels | |||||
| Castle House and Livery | |||||
| G.N. Castle Proprietor | |||||
| Commercial Hotel | |||||
| John Collins Proprietor | |||||
| (Also Livery) | |||||
| Danbury State Bank | |||||
| President - Alex McHugh | |||||
| Vice-Pres. A.J. Santee | |||||
| Cashier - J.W. Hamilton | |||||
| Assistant Cashier - | |||||
| I.B. Santee | |||||
| Secretary A.J. Wilkinson | |||||
| Loan Office | Reed, Baxter | ||||
| and Co. of Ida Grove | |||||
| - Pat Scanlon Mgr. | |||||
| Physicians | G.W. Murphy, | ||||
| W.B. Keeney | |||||
| and C.F. Kueny Doctors | |||||
| Lawyers | J.H. Ostrom, | ||||
| D.H. Kerby | |||||
| F.J. Innskeep | |||||
| Insurance | P.C. Keitges | ||||
| Real Estate | J.H. and E. | ||||
| Ostrom | |||||
| Loan and Land Office | |||||
| Joseph OÕDougherty | |||||
| Auctioneer | T.W. Frentress | ||||
| Windmills | R.L. Canty | ||||
| Furniture and Undertaking | |||||
| Calvin Pierce | |||||
| Farmers Hotel | |||||
| McGraths 1892 | |||||
| Criterion News | |||||
| J.L. Killion and J.W. OÕDay | |||||
| Hardware | W.C. Cameron | ||||
| Corn Shelling I.J. Parks | |||||
| (Horse Power) | |||||
| Population 1890 -- 423. |
CHAPTER IX
Religion Divides The Town
| Mayors | |
|---|---|
| M.D. Cord 1894-1898 | |
| Joseph Conway | 1898-1900 |
| J.F. Mohr - 1900-1902 | |
| W.B. Booher | 1902-1904 |
St. MaryÕs -- A Second Catholic Church
1897-1898
The years 1894 to 1898 were very trying for the town of Danbury. We have forgotten the past; but if the true story of our history is told, the days of unrest within our St. Patrick's Catholic Church, will have to be relayed.
Many families of German ancestry had been coming to this area to buy lands since 1880. They could not speak English. The German language was spoken in their homes. The Germans were slow to adopt the new ideas they found in United States and wanted to continue the study of the German language. Parents had no opportunity to learn to speak English, and it was not until their children started to school that they learned to speak it themselves. The first teachers had the extra responsibity of teaching the German children English.
The German families of Catholic faith attended St. Patrick's Catholic Church, and Rev. Timothy Meagher was resident priest at that time. A dissention between Fr. Meagher and the German parishoners began to grow early in 1890; Father Meagher thought the Germans should forget their native tongue and revert to the custons and language of U.S. now that they were Americans. The Germans wanted a priest that could talk both English and German as they could not go to confession nor could they understand the sermons because of the language barrier. Many communities had this same problem, but they solved it by having a priest that talked both languages. Two sermons were given, one in English and the other in German. Four German parishioners once went to Dubuque to talk over their differences at Danbury with church authorities there, but no remedy was forthcoming. The dissention between Fr. Meagher and the German parishoners continued and worsened.
In 1890, instead of paying church support as we do today, you paid Òpew-rentÓ. When you gave to church support you were assigned a pew, and your family sat in that particular pew. Of course there were many poor families at that time, and many could not give but still wanted to attend church. There were both poor German and Irish families. Fr. Meagher was very insistent and wanted people to give. Because there was a church, school and rectory to be paid for, so many of his sermons were about financial conditions. The Germans became obstinate because their demands were not met, so they became poor donors. Many sat in the rear of the church because they had no pew assigned to them. One old timer told me that he once saw Fr. Meagher take a parisioner by the shoulder and told him if he couldnÕt pay to get out. Many of the German men refused to go to church at all. They would bring their women and children into church, and they would then drive downtown until church services were over.
One Sunday in the summer of 1897 the persons sitting in the rear of the church really became angered. When they knelt on their kneeling benches, they found sharp points of the nails protruding upward from the kneeler; so they rose and went to the rear of the church, but more and more arose so they considered this an intentional act. No one ever knew who did this, but those involved, both Germans and Irish, were furious, and they all left the church en masse. They held a meeting immediately and decided to build a church of their own. They asked Fr, Weinhold of Mapleton to come to Danbury every Sunday to say Mass for them. He drove to Danbury with horse and buggy every Sunday, and church services were held in BraigÕs Hall. Families drove to Mapleton with wagon and team to go to confession.
Some church authorities came to Danbury after this happened hoping to settle some of the differences, but after listening to the grievances from both sides they said they believed there were enough good Catholics in th town of Danbury to support two churches.
On January 4, 1898, the Germans purchased the former Lutheran Church property on Thomas St. from J.J. Witt. The Lutheran Community Church was no longer in use. Cost of the property was $550 with 3 lots. The Lutheran Rectory (Present Cliff Van Houten house) was included in this transaction. The present St. MaryÕs grounds were purchased about the same time. The church was moved from Thomas St. to its present location during the summer of 1898. The moving of the church was quite an undertaking due to its high spire. The old Lutheran Rectory was used for church services during the summer of 1898 as it was cooler there than in BraigÕs Hall. The parishoners began remodeling immediately. The church was made longer, re-roofed, a new floor was laid, an altar built and a few other alterations made.
St. MaryÕs -- A Second Catholic Church
1897-1898
A parishioner died before the church was completed, the mother of Mrs. Henry Diimig, Kunegunda Endres, in November of 1898. A plank floor was hurriedly put down, an altar built and some plank seats arranged so that a funeral could be held. Father Weinhold, resident priest at Mapleton continued to serve the new church which was given the name of St. MaryÕs. The choir during these years was composed of four young menÕs voices, Frank and Hugo Welte and Ben and Antone Ehrig. The three lots on Thomas Street and the rectory were sold to Elzie Tangeman the fall of 1898 for $850.00.
St. MaryÕs School - A new school was built the year following the moving and remodeling of the church, 1899. The building was a three story wooden structure. Children who lived in the country then boarded and roomed at the school, and they were supervised by the nuns. The third floor of the school was used as sleeping quarters for the children and the nuns. Children brought the nuns produce from the farm on Monday morning, and the children were picked up again on Friday afternoon when school was dismissed. This school was not modern when first built. Water, toilets, and electricity were all added later. This was an 8-grade school. The Sisters of the Benedictine Order from Atkinson, Kansas, staffed this school from 1899-1911. For some reason they did not return the Fall of 1911. Francis Schommer, husband of Elizabeth Weber, and Miss Alice Holden taught the children 1911-1912. The Sisters of St. Francis came the Fall of 1912, and Alice Holden continued to teach that year as they were short one teacher. Two of the first nuns to teach at St. Mary's were Sr. Walburger and Sr. Matilda.
The German language was taught at St. Mary's from 1899-1918. One day the morning classes were recited in German, and the following day the afternoon classes. In the German text, one page was printed in German, and the opposite page in English. Fr. Weinhold supervised this school 1899-1902 when he was transferred to Odebolt. Rev. A.J. Wagoner, new resident priest at Mapleton, served St. Mary's from 1902 to December 1903 when Rev. A.J. Schaeffer arrived to be resident priest at St. Mary's, Danbury, Iowa.
St. MaryÕs Cemetery was purchased in 1899. Three German parishioners, Adam Treiber, Henry Diimig, and William Oberreuter purchased the ground for St. Mary's Cemetery for $500. This was their contribution, and for their generosity they were given their choice of lots in the cemetery. All Catholics had been buried in St. Patrick's Cemetery up to this time. The first person to be buried in this cemetery was Matt Bauer who died in February 1899, and the second person was Jacob Sohm who died in October of 1899.
Rev. A.J. Schaefer was the first resident priest for St. Mary's. He was born in March of 1871 in Westphelen, Germany, but had attended schools and was ordained a priest in the United States. He was 32 when he arrived here in November of 1903. Fr. Schaefer was a very energetic, active and conservative man. He fired the furnace of his own home as well as the church furnace, and the parishioners said he often arrived to say Mass with a smudge of soot on his face. He rang the church bells morning, noon and at 6:00 p.m. He loved his work and his people. He supervised the building of the present St. Mary's Church in 1908 and the rectory built in 1905. The first baby he baptized was the daughter of Frank and Mary Schimmer Diimig, Eva (Mrs. Arthur Kirchner) who was born on December 27, 1903.
Now, eighty-some years after the happening of this episode [the fighting between the Germans and the Irish], I have asked several how this could have happened. One ex-businessman whose parentage was both Irish and German said his parents had always thought Fr. Meagher had expected an about-face of the German immigrants too fast. The learning of a new language was more of a barrier to them than the Irish immigrants because they could speak English upon arriving in the United States. He said the Germans could not change that fast. Another said it stemmed from a custom they had in Ireland. In Ireland only priests were educated at that time, and so many families were very poor. In the 19th century many of the poor Catholics then went to the priest for advice when making some business transaction or when he had to make an important decision. This tended to give the priest power. Upon coming to the United States, many of the Irish still followed this custom. The Germans were independent, and they would not confide their business to others. Those I talked to all said if only the Bishop would have appointed a priest here during those times that could talk both English and German all this trouble could have been averted.
The religious troubles had left its mark on the town, and it was going to take years for the wounds to heal. There was much hidden resentment between the two nationalities. Most of the businessmen were of Irish nationality, but to become successful businessmen, they had to have the trade of the Germans. No doubt it was the Protestants in our town that held the town together in these trying times.
Free Methodist Church
The exact year of the organization of this church is unknown, but there was a church here by 1904. The church was a small, white building. and it sat on the lot presently owned by Mrs. Anna Weber. According to The Danbury Review printed in 1904, there was a quarterly meeting held there March 18-21, 1904.
The pastor in charge then was Rev. W.L. Giersdorf. J.J. Woof was conference evangelist, and W.M. Evans of Correctionville gave the sermons. This meeting was an effort to increase the membership of the church. There were several revivals like this held in a tent in the park. Persons belonging to his church were sometimes referred to as The Shouting Methodists as they shouted responses to the minister's sermon. This church did not survive, and in 1908 it was standing vacant. The town bought it and moved it to house the light plant.
Methodist Episcopal Ministers
1893-1904
W. L. Mayhood was appointed to Danbury for years 1893-1895. The trustees of the church in 1894 were Ace Nicholls, Joseph Weinand, William Gibson, R.H. Loucks, Mr. Lyons, Thomas Gray, Peter Smith, R. West, I.B. Santee, W. Cameron, L.H. Valentine, M.D. Cord, John Virtue, William Smith, Miss Lydia West, and Godfrey Durst. Some of these were stewards and were chosen to attend a conference on September 14, 1894, along with Rev. Mayhood.
Prof. H.S. Stein was Superintendent of Danbury Public Schools During these years, and H.B. Collison was basketball coach and principal.
Method of Farming Changed by 1890
Farming methods changed with the coming of the railroad. The farmer was very slow to accept many of the new inventions which implement dealers were trying to sell them. The farmer called them "new fangled ideas." All machinery in 1890 was horse driven. There were only two machinery manufacturers in Illinois. John H. Maney and John McCormick, but later Woods, Stafford and others perfected inventions. Farmers had always walked behind the plow, disc, drag, etc., but now things were changing. All new machinery was coming out with seats. Stafford made a riding cultivator, but many were afraid to buy it for fear of being laughed at by their neighbor. They were called the "Lazy Man's Wagon," and one farmer said, "If a farmer gets so lazy that he can't walk to plow, he ought to quit farming and go to practicing law."
A Woods grain rake was the forerunner of the reaper, but it was not a success. The first reapers did not tie the bundles of grain. Two men rode on a platform at the rear of the reaper, and they tied the bundles and the cut grain came out of the machine.
All grain was first shocked, then stacked. Threshing was done in the Fall after the stacked grain went through a sweat. There were two horse-power threshing machines in our area, Joe Rose and John Boyer. The Heisler brothers in Cooper Township, Monona County also had a thresher. These machines threshed from early Fall until Winter as there were such few machines. When steam thresh machines arrived, there were many who owned them, and each machine would have a threshing ring composed of about 20 farmers. These 20 farmers helped each other. Each threshing machine had a crew of three to maintain the engine and separator. There also was a tank man who hauled the water which was used to create the steam. The three men who operated the threshing machines stayed overnight with the family for whom they were threshing. They had to arise early in the morning to prepare the thresh machine for the day's work. When they were ready to start threshing, they blew a shrill whistle which could be heard for miles, and then the farmers in the ring would come with hay racks, grain wagons, etc. All straw was stacked.
The first corn planters were very crude, were made of wood, and one had to pull a rope to plant each hill of corn. Hay balers were used by 1890. All corn was picked by hand, and bang boards were now being used on the wagons. A good corn picker could pick 100 bushels or more a day and shovel off the corn besides. Pickers received 2-3¢ a bushel. Corn was shelled by hand shellers previous to having the corn sheller in 1890. Once Henry Babbe and John C. Rhode shelled a box car of corn with a hand sheller. When the wagon was filled, they hauled it to Danbury and scooped the corn into the boxcar. When the boxcar was filled, they shipped the corn to Chicago. Jerry Seman and I.J. Parks had corn shellers by 1890. Tony Treiber was shelling corn in 1904.
The Braig General Store
Braig Hardware
Braig Hall
George Braig took over the store in the Wilkinson Building in 1899. Kampmeyer and Adams had operated the store in 1888. Kampmeyer bought out Adams and sold to George Braig in 1899. John Kampmeyer continued to work at Danbury for a few years, but he later moved to Sioux City. George Braig also bought out the adjoining hardware store owned by W.C. Cameron in 1904. W.C. Cameron and wife Susie had come to Danbury in the 1880s. They had built a new home and hardware. Henry Dimig Sr. bought their home when the Camerons left Danbury.
George Braig was born in 1872 in Galena, Illinois. He grew up in Bellvue, near Omaha. He married in Sabula, Iowa, and then moved to Bellvue until he came to Danbury in 1899. Mr. Braig was a very energetic man, and besides operating the general store and hardware, he also took over the management of Braig's Hall, having Andy Matt as a co-worker. He also had several more employees.
The Braigs were affiliated with the Catholic church and their children attended St. Mary's school. Children were Bessie (Mrs. Bernard Collins), Marion, Agnes, Pauline, Gertrude, and George Jr.
To make the work easier, Mr. Braig had a large arched door between his general store and hardware. Customers and employees could then go from one store to the other without going outside. In the general store there was a grocery department at the rear of the store. Farmers drove up to the back door where they could tie their horses to a tie rack. Here they could unload eggs, butter, potatoes, etc. buy their groceries and other supplies and load them on their wagon. Mr. Braig also sold shoes, overshoes, men's clothing, women's and children's dresses, dress material, and other bolt sewing materials, laces, thread, and many other products used in the home. The business office was in a balcony above the grocery department. In the front window an employee sat and sent a small receptacle with order to the cashier in the balcony. This was done when the clerk pulled a cord which tripped a spring, giving the receptacle enough momentum to travel to the cashier's box. The cashier sent the change back to the clerk. Mr. Braig did well in this small town. He built a new home on Thomas Street. He served on the town council and other committees always willingly.
Braig's Hall
The Hall, first known as Wilkinson Hall, then Kampmeyer Hall, now became Braig's Hall. It had been a popular place since built in 1888. Mr. Braig first leased the hall to S.B. Lee, Henry Osterholtz, and George Mohrhauser. After their lease ran out, Mr. Braig managed it with the help of Andy Matt.
Ole Peterson, a show owner who traveled from town to town by train with his troupe, put on many shows in Braig's Hall. Many wrestling matches were held there. Some of Danbury's young wrestlers were Meinsenhelder, Dan Hayden, Earl Kinney, and Pete and George Rosauer.
Dances were held regularly every two weeks. The Brandin and John Johnck Orchestra furnished the music for the dances. Both round and square dancing were the popular dances of this period. The Programme Dance was popular, also the Calico Ball. All girls wore calico dresses, and her escort wore a tie of the same calico material. There were masquerades, and a prize was given to the wearer of the best costume. Mr. Braig often held popularity contests for the ladies, and a muff or choker was given as a prize. Box socials, too, were popular.
The public school also used the hall for many school events such as plays, music concerts, etc.
Sam Crawford who worked in one of the lumberyards lived in an apartment next to Braig's Hall. His wife taught music to the young persons in the school. Her music students put on a music cantata in Braig 'Hall in the early 1900s. Girls in the cantata were Hazle Spencer (Mrs. Godfrey Durst, Jr.), Mable Gibson, Edith Booher, Oral Gibson, Nellie Cord Tumbleson, Nellie Lynch Sexton Goodburn, Anna Keleher, and Hope Seibold (Mrs. C.R.S. Anderson).
Water and Fire Departments
The town dug its first deep well at the present Pump House site in the alley west of Thomas Street. It was dug while Joseph Conway served as mayor in years 1898-1900. Some water pipes were also laid on Main Street and in the first addition of the town. Water was not piped into the business places, but three hydrants were installed on Main Street, and the businessmen obtained water at the hydrants, one at the south end of Main Street, another in front of the Joe Wienand Store, and a third near the Dan Thomas store. Fire hydrants were also installed on Main Street at this time. The one well at the south end of Main Street was still maintained so as to have a watering place for horses.
The fire department which had organized in 1892 was improved at this time. A report was given as to the condition of the fire equipment, and it said, "The engine was in fairly good condition, but the barrels and tanks were in bad shape." An engine was purchased at this time to do the pumping rather than the 8 men. The Danbury Fire Department was also called Hose Co. No 1, and the number of men varied from time to time, but approximately 22 men served in the department. Dr. C. LeDuc was elected fire chief in 1898, Ed Seibold was his assistant, George Seibold was president, Thomas Grafford was secretary, and William Kennaley was treasurer. Other members were D. Jonas, Hi Jonas, W.E. Beery, J.W. Tangeman, Joe McGrath, John Hartigan, Dan Rooney, Joe Conway, James Boyer, O. Smith, Pat McGlaughlin, Henry Fitzpatrick, J.W. Collins, Lou McCabe, Steve Kylie, John Boyer, George Wilkinson, and Dan Kylie. Four new members joined, Martin Kehoe, Thomas Quigley, Jim O'Day, and Elzie Tangeman.
The members met each month, first Monday of the month in the home of one of its members. They had uniforms,. The fire bell was tapped 3 times one half hour before the meeting to warn all members to attend. The by-laws were quite strict. A person applying for membership was referred to an examination committee, and they determined whether or not the applicant would make a desirable member. The system of "black-balling" was mentioned in this early record book. The rules were rigid, and excuses for not attending meetings were not accepted except in an emergency. A fine of 25¢ was imposed for missing a meeting. No member was to appear at a meeting in the state of intoxication or be guilty of using insulting, indecent or improper language to the extent of being a disgrace or he would be expelled. If a member tried to operate fire equipment in case of a fire, or if he had a liquor bottle upon his person, he was expelled. A report was given each month as to the condition and amount of fire fighting equipment.
In July 1898 the department ordered a hose cart built and allowed $6 for the cost. On April 15, 1899, a motion was made to send W.E. Beery to Onawa on April 17th to attend an annual meeting of the fire association. Each member of the fire department donated 10¢ to Beery to help him defray his expenses of going to Onawa. All towns in the Maple Valley belonged to this fire association, and meetings were held in the different towns to show new methods and give new ideas about fire fighting.
Social events were held frequently to raise money to finance the department. The money raised was used to buy new equipment. On May 28, 1898, a May Pole Dance was scheduled. May Pole Dances were held on the lawns in the spring of the year. Several poles about 10-12' in height were erected on a lawn. About 20 strips of cloth were attached to the top of each pole, and a dancer took hold of one of the strips. A music was played, the dancers, every other one, marched in an opposite direction, going over, then under each other's colored streamer, and as they marched the streamers automatically braided on the May Pole. Calico Dances were held by one of our first fire departments. A man paid each girl with whom he danced 10¢, and this money went to the fire department. Square dances, too, were often held, and these dances were held at Kampmeyer Hall. By 1899 they were held at Braig's Hal. The callers for square dances were W.E. Beery, John Miller, Martin Kehoe, William Kennaley, Henry Fitzpatrick, Pat McGlaughlin, and J.F. Conway.
The members of the 1899 fire department were J.F. Conway, President; J.W. Collins, Vice President; F.V. Innskeep, Foreman; Pat McGlaughlin, Assistant Foreman; C.H. LeDuc, Secretary; Lewis Larsen, Treasurer; and Trustees were William Kennaley, P.C. Fitzpatrick, and Jim Conway. New members added that year were Lew Jeness, John Mohr, George Braig, and Joseph Wienand.
Interest in the department lagged from 1899 to June of 1902 when the department was reorganized. There possibly had been a fire, and this always created added interest. This time interested men met in the Cord building, and J.J. Gibbons acted as temporary chairman and Pat McGlaughlin was temporary secretary. The men attending this meeting were W.A. Hite, L.E. Montgomery, L.P. Cameron, Scott Hayden, J.H. Morrisey, I. Clement, J.W. Hartsock, Ed Grafford, J.B. Harvey, J.E. Miller, O.H. Groth, Frank Morrisey, Gus Metz, Bert Hart, B. Rose, J.J. O'Day, and C.E. Herrington. Officers elected on June 2, 1902, were President P.A. McGlaughlin, Vice President L.P. Cameron, Secretary I. Clement, Treasurer G.H. Groth Trustees L. Montgomery and Bert Hart, Chief Joseph Morrisey, and Assistant Chief W.A. Hite. From this time forward our town has always had a fire department.
Hi Jonas was cop at this time.
A History of the Danbury Post Office and Danbury Newspaper
These two Danbury businesses have been combined in our early history, so I'll trace their histories together, first one and then the other, giving what information I could find.
How our mail service started in 1864: Dan Thomas was Danbury's first mail carrier. He often went to Denison for supplies, so settlers living in this area who wanted to write to relatives back east would send their letters with him when he made the trip to Denison, and he would mail them as Denison had a train by 1866. He also would bring back any mail in Denison for settlers here. Danbury then did not have even a name, so the letters were probably just addressed to Denison, or the township Little Sioux Township in 1864. Danbury had no stage to the west either at this time.
In 1868 Liston Township was formed, and Dan Thomas' store was the only business place in the new township He was appointed postmaster at this time. They named the town which consisted only of his home and a trading post Liston Town after the new township. The stage coach then, whose terminus point had been Cork Hill, then came to Liston Town and made it the terminus point. The stage then went to Sioux City and back just once a week. Benjamin Smith served as driver for this stage. Dan Thomas made his bedroom into a post office. Dan Thomas carried mail from Denison 1864-1875. Then William Smith was hired to haul mail to Denison, and he made this trip daily, one day going, and the next day coming back. Many of the settlers then took the Denison paper.
In 1873 when Dan Thomas built his store, the post office was moved from his home to the store. Dan remained postmaster until 1882. Then G.E. Carroll who worked in his store became postmaster. There were no rural mail routes then. Settlers picked up their mail at the post office. There were so many new settlers coming that often no one knew where they lived. Letters were advertised sometimes in the first newspapers of Danbury, telling settlers that there was mail at the post office for them.
The stage continued to bring mail from the west even after we had the train in 1877, as that just brought mail from the east. The stage by 1877 was going to Sioux City one day and coming back the next. Stage was discontinued when train was extended from Mapleton to Onawa, 1886.
I am not positive as to this, but I believe Danbury built a post office next to O'Day Drug Store in 1884, the year Santee and Gault were sent to manage the store of Shepard, Field and Cooke. A postmaster was changed then with each presidential election. One usually did not hold the position for more than four years, and the postmaster had to be affiliated with the same political party as the president. Postmasters that I have found were V.D. Lyons 1888-1892, William Smith during the Cleveland administration 1892-1896, J.T. Sigmon 1896-1900, L.B. Jeness 1901-1910, C.L. Adams 1910-1914, Joseph Wienand appointed acting postmaster due to political arguments and he served until March 18, 1915 when Earl Patten was appointed. Earl served from 1915 to 1955. His wife Elizabeth helped him the first years, and then Louis Ahlwardt was assistant. William Kinney was appointed postmaster, and Louis Ahlwardt was his assistant in 1956. Dick Smith was mail carrier in 1959 when he passed away suddenly. William Kinney then applied for carrier post as the thought he would rather carry mail. Fred Erlemeier was acting postmaster for awhile; he had been assistant. On August 11, 1961, Tom Barry was given the new appointment as postmaster. He still is serving, and Fred Erlemeier is assistant in 1970. William Kinney was appointed carrier on March 19, 1960.
Rural mail routes were established on April 1, 1904. There were two routes. James Penny was appointed carrier for Route 1. This was north and west of Danbury, 25 1/4 miles long, covering an area of 34 square miles, and serving 119 homes or 595 persons. Louis Pierce was carrier for Route 2 south and west of Danbury 23 1/4 miles long, served 102 homes and 510 persons. Persons were urged to install mailboxes, and before the service began, the carriers made a preliminary trip to explain money orders, special deliver, etc. Carriers had a regulation buggy, enclosed to keep mail dry, and it was drawn by horses. Some of the early carriers were Weston Cram, Chris Smith, Nick Peters, James Harrigan, Fred Hines, Jack Hanlon, and Dick Smith. Present carriers are Jack Colbert and William Kinney.
Since there's still a little space, here's a little addition to the postal service list of names. I believe after Tom Barry retired Katie Brown became postmaster. She transferred to Hornick in 2006, and our present postmaster, Peter Newhouse became postmaster. Cindy Zingg was assistant for awhile. Peggy Kramer is now assistant. I don't know all the carriers, but Ray Uehle and Sharon Kruse are the present carriers with Jim Twitchell and Tammy Reimer as substitutes, I believe. At one time Cindy Lansink was carrier.
A History of the Danbury Newspaper
The first paper published in Danbury, 1882 was "Danbury News" published by J.L. Krozen. In 1883 he sold out to a company, and Professor Shoup, Superintendent of the public school, edited it, and it was then known as "Maple Valley Scoop." When the Shoups moved to Sioux City in 1884, the new owner was C.P. Bowman, and the name changed again to "Danbury Vidette." The business went into receivership at the end of 1884, and it went back to the company owning it in 1883. J.H. Ostrom then took over the paper April 1885, and he was editor and had the help of his son and daughter a number of years, and they named the paper "The Criterion." J.W. Killian and J.W. O'Day published it for a short time under the name "Criterion News." L.B. Jeness came to Danbury from Monona County in 1894. He and his wife Maude Adams Jeness took over the paper in 1897, and they named the paper "Danbury Review" which is the name yet today. He was appointed postmaster in 1901, and then he ran both businesses in the same building. He was there until the building burned February 1910. He never repaired the building. He sold it to his brother-in-law, C.L. Adams, what equipment there was left after the fire.
Mr. Jeness said about Danbury upon leaving, "Danbury stands today at the head of practically every town in its class in Northwest Iowa, in the matter of public and private improvements, demonstrated by its public and parochial school buildings, churches, the town's water and electric systems, and the public park, all worth thousands of dollars."
The paper then consisted of one large sheet 40x52". One side of this sheet was printed each week in some city like Chicago and St. Louis. This would be world and U.S. news which happened the last week. It was then folded in half and then quarters, making a sheet 20x28" with the printing inside. These printed papers were shipped to Danbury in quantities needed, and then the printer would print Danbury news, ads, etc. on the plain side.
Cecil Adams sold "The Danbury Review" in January 1913 to C.E. Johnson.
1904 Danbury Review, Printed by L.B. Jeness
Election Proclamation: I, W.B. Booher, mayor of the town of Danbury, do hereby publish and proclaim that on Monday, March 28, 1904, there will be held an election within and for the said corporated town of Danbury, Iowa, at which the qualified electors residing within the corporate limits of said town will vote to elect one mayor, one treasurer, one assessor, one clerk, and two councilmen.
The following question will also be submitted to the voters at said election and will appear upon the ballot to be voted that day, to wit: "Shall that part of the fair grounds lying south of Third Street, including all buildings thereon, be sold and proceeds of the sale be placed in a lighting fund?"
The election will be held in the council room in the Danbury State Bank building in the town of Danbury. Polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on said day.
| W.B. Booher, Mayor | |
|---|---|
| Weekly Market Reports, Feb. 23, 1904: | |
| Butter | .14¢ lb. |
| Eggs | .15¢ doz. |
| Wheat | .63¢ @ .65¢ |
| Oats | .34¢ @ .35¢ |
| Corn | .35¢ @ .38¢ |
| Hogs | $4.50 @ $5.00 |
| Cattle | $1.90 @ $3.35 |
| Turkeys | 8 1/2¢ lb. |
| Ducks | 7 1/2¢ lb. |
| Chickens | 7 1/2¢ lb. |
School Levy: The school board of the Independent District of Danbury, at the last regular meeting February 15, 1904, recommended a levy for the following year as follows:
Teacher's fund $3,500.00
Contingent fund 1,250.00
By order of the board,
John Kampmeyer, Secretary
To the Public: You can leave your watches needing repairs at O'Day Brothers. Will also fit you with gold filled spectacles, ten year guarantee, and look after your eyes two years all for $4.00. Eyes tested free.
S.B. Lee
Free Methodist Church: We expect to hold our district quarterly meeting here in Danbury commencing Thursday night March 18. A general rally from all over the district is expected both of pastors and laymen. Also, J.J. Woof, conference evangelist, will be present and remain to assist in the meeting which we expect to continue.
Also, a missionary meeting of the Women's Foreign Missionary Society will be held Saturday night commencing at 7:00 o'clock. It will consist of a program followed by a sermon by Rev. W.M. Evans of Correctionville. Everybody cordially invited.
W.L. Giersdorf
Pastor in Charge
School Entertainment: A lengthy and well attended program followed by a box supper was given by the pupils and the young people of the district at the Baker school house 3 miles southeast of Danbury last Saturday evening. All was a success, and the evening passed pleasantly. The four little people who took part in the minstrel portion of the program were a decided hit. Dan Penny who sold the boxes proved himself a very able and competent as well as jovial and amiable auctioneer. The boxes went fast and brought high prices. Twenty-seven dollars was netted which will be spent by the district for library books which are so much needed in all our country schools. It shows interest and enthusiasm in this line for young people, and the pupils as the parents do kindly lend their help and work together agreeably and pleasantly for something of this kind at least once a year and let the proceeds this gained go to a good cause.
| M.E. Church Notes: Herbert Keck, Pastor | |
|---|---|
| Sunday School | 10:00 a.m. |
| Preaching | 11:00 a.m. |
| Class meeting | 12:00 p.m. |
| Junior League | 2:30 p.m. |
| Epworth League | 6:45 p.m. |
| Preaching | 7:30 p.m. |
| Morning theme "The bane and Its Antidote" | |
| Evening subject | "The Great Question" |
| Normal class | Tuesday evening |
| Prayer meeting | Thursday evening |
District Missionary Convention, Sac City, Mar. 7 and 8
Miss Bertha Harvy leads Epworth League next Sunday evening
Third quarterly meeting May 15 in evening
Pastor called to Charter Oak to perform marriage ceremony Thursday of this week.
Sunday School will be organized into a Missionary Society next Sunday morning.
Big Missionary Rally will be held in our church on the evening of March 18, and addressed by Rev. Black of Ida Grove and Rev. Achison of Battle Creek, Iowa.
Petitions filed in Damage Case: According to the Sioux City Journal, the petitions have been filed in the district court in which Mrs. Della Jacques and Mrs. Anna Wier each ask judgment for $5,000 against G.W. Canty. The notice in these cases were filed some time ago but there was apparently an unfounded rumor that the cases might not go farther so there had been no general publicity given the matter until the petitions were filed.
From Sioux City Journal: "Being seized and embraced on the street is an experience which is seriously objected to by Della Jacques, a milliner of Danbury, who yesterday filed a suit for $5,000 damages against C.C. Canty, a businessman of Danbury, claiming on December 20, 1903, Canty took the liberty of placing his arms around her without her consent and very much to her chagrin and humiliation.
"Mr. Canty has peace to make with another Danbury woman, Anna Wier, who is proprietress of a bakery and grocery at Danbury, Iowa. She filed a petition against Canty claiming damages in the sum of $5,000 because Canty is alleged to have lain violent hands upon her in her own store on December 26, 1903. Her allegation is that Canty "wickedly, maliciously and without cause of provocation" violently assaulted her by placing his hands on her in a violent manner, and by threatening to injure her. He was only prevented from carrying out his threat by her resistance and the timely arrival of other persons. She declared he abused her and told her she was a woman of bad character and that she was addicted to the use of intoxicating liquors and that a cigarette was all that she needed to make her like other lewd women. Mrs. Wier claimed that she suffered great mental anguish as a result of the defamatory words and her reputation was damaged to the extent of $2,500, and her business was damaged also, so she wanted $5,000 damages for Canty's alleged conduct."
Corn shelling: I have a new Joliet Corn Sheller and will shell corn for .75¢ per 100 bushels. After March 1, 1¢ per bushel. Phone number 401 from Danbury.
Jerry Seman
News Items: The stores in many of the towns in Iowa now close at 7:30 and others at 6:00 p.m. Like Sunday closing, the people seem to like the plan once it is established, except perhaps the class who spent their evenings loafing around the prune box.
Birds work for men from the first glimmer of the sun. Rocky Mountain Tea works for mankind both day and night. That's why it's famous the world o'er. It will not let you turn over and take another snore.
R.H. Loucks
R.C. Hayden's sale of thoroughbred hogs last Friday was very well attended, and the average selling price was $28.50 each.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Grey left Wednesday morning for Boulder, Colorado, where they will visit J.T. Sigmon and family for a couple of months.
The job of mayor or councilman in a town like Danbury means a salary of about .30¢ and 784 kicks. Don't all speak at once.
New Business Transactions in Danbury
1888-1904
Willibald Endres, Jeweler to S.M. Lee: Mr. Endres came to Danbury from Chatsworth, Illinois, in late 1880s. He was a cousin of Mrs. Henry Diimig, Sr. He had a small shop on the east side of Main Street. He sold out to S.M. Lee, another jeweler, 1904. The family went back to Illinois.
Confectionery: Dan Newcomer and Con Keleher sold their confectionery shop in 1904 to Ed Driscoll. Clement Funk clerked in the store.
Mrs. C.C. Frum: Mr. and Mrs. C.C. Frum came to this area, Morgan Township, about 1882. They had children: Bruce, Sydney and Millard. When Millard was a small boy, the Frums moved to Danbury. Mr. C.C. Frum was a stock buyer. Mrs. Frum operated a millinery shop in Danbury. They moved to Danbury so as to give the children an education. Sydney graduated from Danbury High School and went on to study law. He served as judge of the 8th Judicial District many years. Millard married Sarah Leola Canty of Danbury, and they lived in Danbury all of their lives.
George Nicholas Castle sold 1904 to Barry Brothers: The Castles decided to move to Bremerton, Washington, in 1904, so sold their property. Frank Dove operated the hotel and livery a short time. On February 19, 1904, Pat and Mike Barry rented the Dove Tie Barn fro W.F. Seibold who had purchased the property. They established a livery barn on the side sold feed and bought and sold livestock. They bought the building January 1, 1905. Many livestock sales were held at this building. In 1911 the Barry brothers became interested in automobiles, the Ford, and soon after they started an expansion program.
Elzie Tangeman, Tie Barn: Elzie Tangeman built a tie barn in early 1900s. This was a large barn built to accommodate horses and rigs, having stalls on both sides. Mangers were along the outside walls. An attendant was always on hand to tie up and care for the horses whenever a vehicle entered the door. If the driver planned to stay any length of time he brought a bag of oats for the attendant to feed the horse. Hay was furnished by the management. Many of the school children, the mailmen, and farmers accommodated this barn.
Arthur Powell: Arthur Powell came to Danbury in 1888. He married Mary McBride. His occupation was paper hanging and painting. Arthur was a talented musician. He played in the Johncks Orchestra and also the Danbury Brass Band. He made extra money playing in the Johncks Orchestra as this dance orchestra played for dances in all the surrounding towns. The Powell had children, Gladys born 1888, Arthur C. 1889, Carlyle "Bun" 1893, Albert "Brownie" 1893, Dewey 1898, Wilfred 1900, Murial 1902, Bethine 1904, and Charles 1907. They left Danbury in 1925.
New Business Transactions in Danbury 1888-1904
O'Day Drug Store: Two brothers, James and Jim "Bucky" O'Day started a second drug store in Danbury. They first built a wooden structure a second side of Main Street (Paul Lamphear location). They sold ice cream, drugs, stock remedies, cosmetics, etc., and a jeweler, Mr. S.M. Lee was in the store with them for a few years. It burned in 1910, and then the O'Day brothers built the present brick building, present Paul Lamphear's.
Farmers Hotel 1891: A vacated hardware was moved from the east side of Main Street farther north to the Collins Hotel location. Mr. and Mrs. Michael McGrath retired from farming in 1891. They wanted to make this into a rooming and boarding house. They called it Farmers Hotel. Mrs. McGrath had several steady boarding customers. She operated this until her husband died. There was a livery to the east of the hotel. They operated this until early 1900 when Nora McQuillen and her sister JoAnn Murphy took over.
C.C. Cook 1890-1904: C.C. Cook, who had been partner with Shepard and Field of Council Bluffs, bought out his partners, and he then moved his family and operated the Shepard, Field and Cook General Store. Crilly and Gibson both clerked in the store.
Wilbert Booher 1892-1898: Wilbert Booher sold out his hardware in 1892 and went into grain buying and selling. He might have built the second elevator. In 1898 he sold the elevator business to F.H. Hancock as he was to become the president of the Danbury bank built by August Wilkinson. F.H. Hancock remained in the elevator business a number of years.
Methodist Ministers 1895-1904: Rev. Waitsell Avery Richards, father of Hal Richards, our Danbury dentist for years, came to Danbury in 1895. He was a poet. He was also credited for planting the trees on the parking and grounds of the Methodist property.
| Rev. J.M. Carver | 1897-1898 |
| Rev. Gary Coulter | 1898-1900 |
| Rev. O.P. Chittick | 1900-1902 |
| Rev. Herbert A. Keck | 1902-1904 |
| Township Clerks: | |
|---|---|
| Mark Durst | 1895-1897 |
| Joseph Welte | 1897-1904 |
John Crilly and William Gibson: In 1904 John Crilly and William Gibson bought out C.C. Cook, and they then were owners of the old Dan Thomas General Store until 1907.
O.D. Peake, Danbury Photographer 1904: O.D. Peake had a studio in Danbury first in the rear end of the Durst building and afterwards in the upstairs of the Cord building. After Mr. Peake left here, a Mr. Dore had a studio here. Then for many years Mr. Parker, a photographer from Mapleton would come to Danbury a couple of days out of the week. He advertised a 3x4" picture, $5 a dozen.
Fred and August Tangeman 1892-1895: Eldest sons of David Tangeman, they ran a hardware (Art Tatman building). Henry Fitzpatrick, Thomas Brennah, and Martin Berkemeier bought them out in 1895.
L.B. Jeness: Postmaster and The Danbury Review.
Hayden Produce, Willard Hayden 1901: Willard Hayden, a farmer from Ida County, built a cream station in Danbury in 1901. The station was located in the alley near the present-day pump house. The farmers in the area were beginning to have larger herds of cows, and they were producing more milk than the farmers could consume themselves. De Laval first manufactured a large separator in 1890. This separator was a powered by a gas engine.
Mr. Hayden, before building, made out a milk contract with certain farmers, and they were to deliver their milk to the station. James Scott, a Danbury resident, told how he and his brother, John hauled milk to town when boys. The evening milk was strained into cream cans but were not delivered to the station until the next morning after the morning milking. They hauled the milk to town in a wagon, and they unloaded the milk onto a loading dock. A test of the milk was first made to determine butterfat content. The milk was then emptied into the large tank. The Scott boys then drove to the rear of the building, and the skimmed milk was run back into the empty cans. The cream went into another tank in the produce station, and Mr. Hayden put the cream into cans, and it was them shipped to Carroll, IA. He paid the farmer upon delivery of the milk.
The farmers fed the skimmed milk to their hogs.
In 1904 small separators were manufactured, and then every farmer bought a separator of his own. Mr. Hayden returned to the farm after the selling of milk was no longer popular.
Paris Hotel, Nora McQuillen: The Patrick McGrath family of Soldier Township, Crawford County moved to Danbury in the 1880s after one of the boys took over the farm. They ran a rooming and boarding house on the Collins Hotel location. It was then known as Farmers Hotel. After the death of Mrs. McGrath in 1891, the hotel was sold, exact year unknown. Nora McQuillen was managing this same hotel, now known as Paris Hotel by 1904. An ad advertising the hotel in The Danbury Review in 1904 said, "Best accommodations for the traveling public. Board by week at reasonable rates. Free bus to and from all passenger trains (bus was team and carriage). Two blocks from depot, corner of Third and Main Streets." Miss JoAnn Murphy, Manager, Nora N. McQuillen, Proprietor.
The hotel had a livery to the east of it. Nora McQuillen was proprietor of this hotel until the property was bought by the Foulks brothers in 1910 when they built the Collins Hotel.
Henry and Patrick Fitzpatrick: Henry finished high school at St. Patrick's Academy in 1895. He, along with Martin Berkemeier and Thomas Brennah, bought out the Tangeman brothers (Fred and Gus) who had a hardware in what was later known as the Art Tatman building.
After the three were in business in a year, Pat Fitzpatrick, a brother of Henry bought out Berkemeier and Brennah. Henry became a licensed mortician in 1897, and he then established an undertaking business along with the hardware. Pat also had a sideline - electricity and plumbing. In 1898 they needed better facilities, so they sold the old building, and they built a new two story brick structure (present Jim Collins Feed Store). In 1900 Pat installed the first electric light plant in the town, in the hardware. It was a plant he built himself. He also installed some of the first manufactured plants in the town in St. Patrick's Academy, the church and the rectory in 1910. The Fitzpatrick brothers were partners for 25 years.
C.C. Frum: He was elected road supervisor in 1901.
Dr. William Creswell, 1908: Dr. Creswell came to Danbury after completing his medical course in 1908 He married Effie Durst, daughter of Godfrey Durst, Sr. on April 10, 1910. They had a son, Lloyd. When Lloyd was 6 in 1918, Dr. Creswell died during the influenza epidemic after practicing medicine in Danbury for 10 years. He was a surgeon and often performed surgery at the Battle Creek hospital.
Dr. Christian Le Duc: He was an M.D. and surgeon who came here when a young man from Breda, Iowa, in 1895. He married Mary Kennedy, the daughter of Patrick and Ellen Mahoney Kennedy. They had two sons, Karl and Vincent. Dr. Le Duc practiced in Danbury a few years but was poor in health. He returned to Breda and practiced medicine there. His brother, Andrew was a pharmacist in Breda. Dr. Le Duc died when only 33 years old.
Patrick McLaughlin: He came to Danbury about 1888 and was a clerk in Crilly Store.
George Quigley: He came to Danbury, too, about this time. He had sons, Jim Quigley who married Mamie Donnery, and John Quigley who married Margaret Caldon. They had children, Frank, Leonard, Marie, Ada, Patrick, and Ethel (Mrs. John O'Day). John was a Danbury barber.
W.C. Cameron: He owned a hardware in Danbury and sold it to George Braig in 1904. George Braig then operated both stores, his general merchandise store and the hardware.
Alvy Stanton and Wick Davis: They built all the new cement sidewalks in the town. Both of them had a crew of men, horses, fresnos, etc., so as to move dirt. Alvy Stanton and a Mr. Watson from Oto moved many of the buildings about the town.
Liveries in Danbury
All traveling up to year 1908 was with horses, so the livery played an important part in our early history. All three of Danbury's first hotels had liveries, Castle House, Commercial Hotel, and Paris Hotel. Many persons traveling would take rooms at one of the hotels for the night, and a caretaker at the livery would care for his horses and conveyances. Each hotel owner had a team of horses and a carriage, and he met all trains coming into Danbury at the depot to solicit business and haul the customer with his baggage to his hotel.
John Wade Herrington built a livery (present Tony Steinbach resident lot) in 1879, and Levi Herrington managed it. The stage coach driver kept his horses and stage coach there. Bray and Drea and the Edwards brothers owned this livery in later years. There was another large livery built north of present Fred Grell car Wash. Doc Smith, a veterinarian, operated this livery at one time. The Harrigan brothers ran a livery in 1904, W.H. Jones in 1910, and the Barry brothers in 1906. Alvy Stanton had a livery on Thomas Street in the alley near his residence in 1908. Henry Meier had a livery in Danbury in 1916.
Freight coming on the trains also had to be picked up by the dray-man. He met all incoming trains. Ed Tangeman served in that capacity many years. He did all draying with horses at first, and, by 1916, he bought two Ford delivery trucks.
Ed also was the town's ice man. Each winter when the ice was frozen to a depth of at least 18" in the Maple River near the Mill, it was time to "put up" the ice. An ice saw cut blocks of ice about 400 pounds in weight. The blocks were 3-4' long and approximately 18" wide and 18" deep. Wagons were backed up to a loading dock, and the chunks of ice were placed on a runway. A horse pulled the blocks of ice up into the wagon. Farmers stored the blocks of ice in sawdust in an ice house. The sawdust kept the ice from melting, and ice could be kept in these house until summer. The ice man delivered ice to the town's citizens a certain day of the week. The ice was weighed, and you paid by the pound. The ice was used in kitchen ice boxes. Ed Tangeman stored as much as 1,000 tons of ice some years. After Ed retired from this business, Ray Sexton took it over. This business was discontinued when electric refrigerators were invented.
The hotel liveries were discontinued with the invention and coming of the automobile. The Tie barn built by Elzie Tangeman served the community until late 1920s. Many school children drove horse driven conveyances to school, and they left their rigs and horses at the Tie Barn. Cars were not accepted at first, and it was many years before everyone owned a car.
More Organizations
Modern Woodmen of American, 1897: the Charter of Danbury Camp No. 4655 Modern Woodmen of America was dated April 10, 1897, at Fulton, Illinois. The charter members of this organization were W.B. Booher, J.W. Connett, F.V. Innskeep, M.D. Cord, John M. Boyer, John H. Crilly, P.C. Keitges, William H. Brady, C.C. Frum, J.T. Sigmon, James Bray, Clement Funk, J.F. Wienand, R.C. Canty, W.T. Fields, and W.D. Gibson. Social members were David Cloud, F.S. Hayden, and Dr. G.W. Murphy. On January 20, 1902, Louis Larsen who was clerk handed over the clerkship to John F. Mohr.
In 1932 death claims had been paid to A.L. Canty, John J. JOhnck, Henry Lille, Thomas H. Virtue, Harvey Swanger, P.G. Lenz, Frank P. Morrisey, $1,000 each; Joseph E. towers, Thomas W. Brennan, William N. Booth, J.E. Maguire, Peter Hayes, W.D. Cloud, John J. Christopherson, and Henry Frahm 2,000 each; Christian H. Le Duc and J.D. Crow $3,000 each; and Peter Neustrom $780.
| Modern Woodmen of American, 1897: Officers in 1932: | |
|---|---|
| Venerable Council | John Twitchell |
| Worthy Advisor | Henry Fitzpatrick |
| Clerk | J.F. Mohr |
| Banker | George Elskamp |
| Escort | E.A. Tangeman |
| Watchman | Charley Driscoll |
| Sentry | Frank Palmer |
| Managers | John Abraham |
| C.E. Johnson | |
| Mark Durst | |
| Physician | Dr. Leo Wilson |
| Special Auditor | James Harrigan |
| Written by J.F. Mohr |
Catholic Order of Foresters, 1898: The Catholic Order of Foresters was organized April 1898 in Danbury by Rev. Timothy Meagher. Thirty members signed applications for the charter, and on May 3, 1989 the court started. The first officers were the following:
| Spiritual Director and Chief Ranger | Fr. Meagher |
| V.C.R. | Dr. C.H. Le Duc |
| P.C.R. | M.E. Rush |
| Treasurer | Albert Price |
| Recording Secretary | J.J. Adams |
| Fin. Secretary | P.H. Rush |
| Trustees | Henry Fitzpatrick |
| Henry Craig | |
| Matt Drea | |
| Conductors | Pat McLaughlin |
| James Navin | |
| Sentinels | James Conway |
| P. Connelly |
This organization had a steady growth, and when World War I began, it had a membership of 220 persons. It was agreed that any member serving in the war to have their assessments paid by the Court. Twenty-six members served in World War I. This court met once a month, and the prime objective was selling insurance. The Court also sponsored social activities.
Highlanders, 1899: Lodge, Royal Highlanders, was granted a charter on October 12, 1899. The objective was selling insurance, and they had 65 members. Many social events were enjoyed by the members of this lodge and their friends. On January 13, 1904, the following charter members were elected officers: James E. Harvey, George Fessenbeck, Godfrey Durst, Jr., Manford Adams, Joseph Wienand, John F. Mohr, G.W. Canty, John Carlson, Louis W. Pierce, John Foltz, Calvin H. Pierce, John D. Rooney, Fred Hines, John P. McNiff, William J. Fischer, D.H. Penny, Lewis B. Jeness, and Dr. W.L. Creswell.
Danbury Baseball Team, 1900: Pitcher Frank or Rex Morrisey, First Base Hayden, Second Base Dove, Third Base Harrigan, Center Field Montgomery, Right Field Durst, Left Field Wood, and Short Stop Amos.
| Businessmen in Danbury, 1904: | |
|---|---|
| Mayor | W.B. Booher |
| Town Clerk | P.A. McGlaughlin |
| Druggists | R.H. Loucks |
| O'Day Brothers John & Jim | |
| General Merchandise Stores | |
| John Kampmeyer | |
| George J. Braig | |
| Crilly & Gibson | |
| Hardwares | |
| W.C. Cameron - Sold to George Braig in 1904 | |
| Fitzpatrick Brothers Henry & Pat | |
| Lumber Yards | S.H. Bowman Lumber Yard, W.D. Benett, Mgr. |
| Iowa-Minnesota Lumber Co. | |
| E.W. Oates, Mgr. | |
| Harness Shops | J.E. Harvey, John Cortman, Prop. |
| J.F. Wienand Shop - | |
| East side of Main St. | |
| Danbury State Bank | |
| Pres. W.B. Booher | |
| V.P. A.J. Santee | |
| Cashier I.B. Santee | |
| Real Estate & Loans | |
| Joseph O'Dougherty | |
| Postmaster | L.B. Jeness Carriers James B. Penny |
| Louis Pierce | |
| Danbury Review | |
| L.B. Jeness, Editor - | |
| Price $1.25 per year | |
| Milk Delivery | P.G. Lenz |
| Physicians | Dr. G.W. Murphy |
| Dr. W.L. Creswell, Medical & surgical | |
| Dr. J.T. Conn of Battle Creek had an office in the Danbury hotel. He answered all calls day or night and did both dental and surgery work. | |
| Barbers | Frank Neustrom |
| John Quigley | |
| Jay Smith | |
| Carpenters | John Kinney |
| Tom Virtue | |
| Sam Griffith | |
| Tie Barn | Elzie Tangeman |
| Confectionery | Ed Driscoll |
| Meat Markets | Clancy & Flood |
| John Hart, Henry Osterholtz, Clerk | |
| Photographer | O.D. Peaks |
| Corn Shelling | Jerry Seaman |
| Antone Treiber | |
| Saloon & Billiards | |
| Louis Ludwig | |
| Wagon & Repair Shop | |
| S.R. Haberstrait | |
| Attorney Office | |
| John Gibbons, Opposite post office on Main St. | |
| Auctioneers | Jeness & Huber |
| Jeweler | S.M. Lee |
| Creamery | Willard Hayden |
| Millinery | Mrs. C.A. Jacques |
| Bee Supplies | Peter Smith |
| City Dray Lines | Hauled baggage & freight, Harrigan Brothers |
| Liveries | Barry Brothers, general, town & country, all new buggies |
| Edwards Brothers, city livery and bus lines to hotels, etc. | |
| Hotels | Commercial Hotel - J.W. Collins, Prop., Main & 2nd Sts. |
| Paris Hotel - Miss Joann Murphy, Mgr., Nora McQuillen, Prop., Main and 3rd. Sts. | |
| Blacksmith | J.M. Boyer |
| Elevators | Godfrey Durst, |
| Mill & elevator | |
| F.H. Hancock, Elevator | |
| W.F. Seibold | |
| Baking & Groceries | |
| Anna Wier | |
| Anna Dove | |
| Painting & paper hanging | George Pullis & Arthur Powell |
| Mayors | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1904-1906 | R.H. Loucks | |
| 1906-1910 | I.B. Santee | |
| 1910-1912 | P.C. Keitges |
Changes in Danbury Church Properties - 1905-1910
St. Mary's, 1908-1910: Rev. Shaefer, resident priest of St. Mary's, had lived in a small house east of St. Mary's Church since his arrival in 1903. In 1905 it was decided to build a rectory on the church grounds which had been purchased in 1898 (present rectory).
In 1908 the parishioners at St. Mary's decided they needed a new church as the old church was too small. The church had been used for 11 years, and each year some more families had come. It was decided to build the new church to the west of the old church, and the old church would remain until the new one was completed. Fr. Shaefer told the parishioners there were be hardships, and all should be willing to give both time and money. Land owners were asked to give $1,000 contributions.
The building plans for the church were drawn by Martin Hear of Dubuque, Iowa, and the building contract was awarded to W.F. Zittrel of Webster City, Iowa. The new brick structure with interior fixtures was to cost parishioners $25,000 approximately. Bricks, lumber and other material was hauled by the parishioners from railroad cars on track or from the lumber yard. Parishioners also helped to dig a partial basement. A full basement was dug out a few years later by parishioners. Steam heat was used to heat the building. The parishioners as well as Fr. Shaefer all hauled brick and mortar to the mason by wheelbarrow. The spire, belfry, and cross were erected on the ground and then hoisted by teams of horses to the top of the church where it was put in place. Several families donated the stained glass windows and the stations of the cross. One whole window cost $100. The names of contributors were put on the windows. F r. A.J. Shaefer contributed four windows. Those contributing the money for one whole window were Mr. and Mrs. John Wessling, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diimig, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Treiber Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Anthon Reimer and family, and Mr. and Mrs. George Braig. Those donating money to buy a half-window were Mr. and Mrs. John Uhl and Miss Josephine Uhl, and Ferdinand Hammann and Frank Oberreuter, Sr. After the basement was dug in full, Mass during the week was held in the basement of the church, and the church was only heated on Sundays.
The cornerstone for St. Mary's Church was laid on June 12, 1909. Ceremonies were held at that time. Bishop Carrigan of Sioux City was the presiding official for the laying ceremony. Two sermons were given, one in English by Fr. Wagoner of Mapleton, and another sermon in German by Fr. Gerleman of Granville, IA. The Mapleton band furnished music all through the day. Papers concerning the building of the church, and names of all donors were sealed in the right hand corner of the church's foundation.
From The Danbury Review: "Dedication Ceremonies Held June 20, 1911. In the presence of a large gathering of people, the beautiful St. Mary's Church was dedicated Tuesday morning, June 20, 1911. Nature did herself proud, and it was an ideal June day. The event will be long remembered by all those who attended with a special sense of gratitude by those who have the privilege of worshipping in such a magnificent church of which Rev. A.J. Shaefer is pastor. People began to arrive early in the morning for this occasion. There were many visitors from other towns and cities. Shortly after 10:30 o'clock in the morning, Confirmation was administered to a class of 57. At 10:30 o'clock the dedication of the church began, Rt. Rev. Bishop Garrigan officiating. This was followed by a solemn High Mass. Those assisting at the ceremonies were J.A. Gerleman of Granville, IA, who as the celebrant; Rev. P. Brune of Alton, IA who was Deacon; Rev. John Nepple of LeMars who was Sub-Deacon; and Rev. L. Schenkleberg of Charter Oak who was master of ceremonies Two excellent sermons were given. Rev. George Wessling of Carroll delivered one sermon in German, and Rev. Edward Myers of Milford delivered the other in English. Other priests who were present were Rev. G. Weinhold of Odebolt, Rev. P. Costello of Ida Grove, Rev. P. Heusman of Mt. Carmel, IA, Rev. Schleyer of Breda, IA, Rev. August Meyer of Ogden, IA, Rev. T. Meagher of this place, and Rev. Shaefer of St. Mary's. A sumptuous dinner was served in St. Mary's School after which everyone spent an enjoyable afternoon. More people came in the afternoon, and before the festivities came to a close, several hundred people had assembled. Ice cream, pop and refreshments of all kinds were sold in stands. Men tried out their muscles on the striking machine. Some tried their luck at the wheel of fortune, and others amused themselves at slinging balls at rag dolls. One of the enjoyable features of the day was the music furnished by Fr. Wessling's band of 18 pieces of Carroll. Fr. Wessling is a trained musician, he taught his boys to be excellent players, and the music they furnished was fine. The band played several selections on the lawn in the morning and gave a concert in the afternoon. A picnic supper as held on the lawn, and the people then departed for their homes feeling that the day was one to be long remembered. The business places closed their doors from 10:30 to 12:00 p.m."
A long shed-like barn was built north of the church. Everyone in 1911 drove horse drawn vehicles. Upon arriving at church or school, the horses were unhitched and tied to the barn. The priest, too, had a team of horses and a buggy.
From The Danbury Review: "St. Mary's Bells Installed Dec. 7, 1911. The blessing of the two new bells for St. Mary's Church took place Sunday. Rev. J.A. Gerleman of Granville, IA, arrived for the occasion. He celebrated High Mass in the morning. At. 3 o'clock p.m., Solemn vesters were changed with the Rev. Gerleman celebrant, Rev. Wagoner Deacon, and Rev. Schaefer Sub-Deacon. A sermon was preached by Rev. Gerleman. The two new bells will be rung every Saturday night to announce the coming Sunday."
The barn was torn down in 1930s, and the old church was also destroyed. The parishioners sold chance tickets on the old rectory, and it was given away at a bazaar. Patrick Barry won this house. Chance tickets were $1 apiece for the old rectory.
Changes in Danbury Church Properties
1905-1910
St. Patrick's: The St. Patrick's Church built in 1883 too had grown too small. On September 25, 1905, the spire of St. Patrick's Church was struck by lightning, and a considerable amount of damage was also done to the church. As more seating capacity was needed, the church was then made longer, and the altar moved forward. A new front entrance was built on the church and a smaller tower and bell replaced the spire. A back door leading to the sacristy was also built on the west. Now a neat iron fence had been built around the Academy and white birch trees had been planted on the parking and several trees on the grounds.
New Academy 1908: The white wooden academy built in 1887 had also become too small to accommodate the number of children wishing to obtain an education. The old building was moved to the rear of St. Patrick's property; as they planned to build the new school on the old location. School children went to school in the old school while the new academy was being built. C.F. Mayer, a contractor from Humboldt, Iowa, was hired to build the school. The school was to be brick, have a full basement and four floors. The academy was heated with steam heat, had electricity and was fully modern in every way. On the first floor were high school class rooms and an auditorium; on the third floor were rooms for the nuns, and the fourth floor or attic had several rooms for the roomers who stayed at the convent. There were a number of boarders who also stayed with the nuns. At one time, meals were served to all in the basement of the academy. Fr. Meagher and the parishioners were very proud of their new school upon its completion, and dedicatory services were held. The new school was ready the fall of 1908.
Methodist Episcopal Church Improved 1908: Rev. C.J. Messenger was the residing minister at Danbury 1904-1906, Rev. A. A. Pittenger from 1906-1907, and Rev. John R. Tumbleson 1907-1911. Rev. Tumbleson also served the Sharon community Church a few miles northwest of Danbury. A minister’s salary was $800 in 1908. During Rev. Tumblesons stay, an addition was added on the east side of the church, and the basement was enlarged. The membership of the church had climbed from 49 in the first days of the church history to 105 persons. Rev. John Tumbleson married Nellie Cord, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M.D. Cord. Rev. Ezra Cathcart followed Rev. John R. Tumbleson in 1911.
Danbury Main Street 1909
Danbury had several near catastrophes down through the years, and the years 1904 to 1912 were no exceptions. Three incidents occurred during years 1908 and 1910 which were very discouraging: 1) the loss of our mayor Ben Santee in 1908, 2) explosion of our first public light plant, and 3) the near destruction of the town by fire in 1910. It seemed out of the ashes of this terrible fire, a new and better Danbury emerged.
Mayor Isaac Benton Santee Dies 1908: Ben Santee was elected mayor in 1906, but he passed away before his term of office had expired. I.B. Santee was born in Monongolia Co., West Virginia on March 7, 1852. His early life was spent on a farm, and his childhood education was received in the public schools of his native state. He attended the University of West Virginia in Morgantown and the Iron City Business College at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was in the mercantile business in Illinois and Iowa for 10 years before coming to Danbury. His parents were A.J. and Lucy Shriver Santee who were of French and German descent. Ben married Addie M. Gibson on June 16, 1877 at Council Bluffs. Addie was the daughter of James and Mary Anthony Gibson. Ben Santee and his wife came to Danbury in 1883. Ben was to manage a store owned by Shepard, Field and Cook (former Dan Thomas Store). The three owners sent Frank Gault to Danbury also to help Ben Santee. Shepard, Field and Cook all lived in Council Bluffs.
Ben Santee was a politician, and in 1900 he ran on the Republican ticket as a member of the General Assembly. He was elected and served during the 27th and 28th General Assemblies. He served as an aide to Gov. Cummins while he was governor of Iowa.
A.J. Santee, the father of Ben Santee, came to Danbury after his son's coming in 1885, and he helped Mr. August Witnessing organize the first Danbury bank and then became the vice president of Danbury State Bank. A.J. Santee died a year after the bank was organized in 1889, and then Ben Santee took his father's place in the bank. William Gibson took charge of the store that Ben Santee had once managed. During the closing months of 1907, Ben began to notice signs of failing health, and he soon was compelled to withdraw completely from active participation in the bank. When just 56 years old, while in the prime of life, Ben passed away on June 20, 1908. Mr. Santee was a man of high ideals, charitable, and a lover of books, arts, and of things pertaining to higher life. The community had lost a fine citizen, one whose place would be hard to fill. At his request, the funeral was conducted by brother Masons. At 11:00 on the day of the funeral, services were conducted at the lodge, and at 1:15 p.m. a procession formed, and lodge members marched to the residence where a funeral sermon was preached by Rev. E.S. Johnson of Ida Grove. The Blue Lodge then took over the funeral and, with Master Masons and Knight Templars as an escort, the remains were taken to the cemetery. An impressive ceremony took place at the cemetery.
An item in The Danbury Review published October 13, 1910 said the material for the Santee Mausoleum had arrived, cost of which was $3,000. A second item published in the August 17, 1911, edition said a bronze drinking fountain would soon be erected on the corner in front of Danbury State Bank. The fountain was a gift of Mrs. I.B. Santee in memory of her husband for the benefit of the public. The fountain would perpetuate the memory of one of Danbury's foremost citizens, and it would also be a benefit to the general good health of the community.
P.C. Keitges, who was a member of the city council in 1908, was chosen by member councilmen to finish the term of I.B. Santee 1908 to 1910.
The First Light Plant for Danbury 1908: Candles, kerosene and gas lamps and home-battery light plants had furnished light for the community up to 1908. The town decided in 1908 to build an electric light plant for the public's use. A vacated Free Methodist Church was moved from its location to the pump house and well location. A plant, with dynamo, engine, etc. was installed in the building. The engine, fed with coal, produced the electricity. Many houses and business places were wired for electricity. Jim Sheets was hired to manage the plant. This method of producing electricity was not too successful, and the plant had a few minor explosions. Repairs were always made, and the plant returned to normalcy.
After being used a little over a year, there was a tremendous explosion, and the plant and building were demolished. Only one wall of the building remained standing. The town then returned to their kerosene lamps, etc.
The Fire in 1910: Danbury's Fate in Hands of God was the headline in the Sioux City Journal on February 15, 1910. The day was one to be long remembered by the citizens of Danbury. At the crack of dawn the fire bell rang out clearly. Fire had been detected in the O'Day Drug Store. The firemen tried to start the fire engine used to pump water, but it refused to start. In a short time the fire was raging out of control. It was feared the whole west side of Main Street would burn as all buildings were then wooden. There was not enough water or equipment to fight a fire of this size. All they could do was to wet down the buildings not affected, and they did this with a bucket brigade.
In this fire the O'Day Drug Store was completely destroyed, a $5,000 loss, and it was partially covered with insurance. The Danbury Review office was in the rear of the Danbury Post Office, and both of these businesses were owned by L.B. Jeness. There was a $2,000 loss to the building which was owned by Godfrey Durst, Sr. The printing press, records, and all Danbury newspapers from the beginning were destroyed. John L. Quigley had a $500 loss in his barber shop south of the post office, and John Hart's Meat Shop to the north of O'Day Drug Store had a $1,000 loss which was partially covered by insurance. The wind was a contributing factor to this fire, and it seemed to increase in velocity during the day. This should have been enough excitement for the citizens of Danbury for one day, but they were due for more of the same.
At 2:00 p.m. the fire bell started ringing again. This time St. Patrick's Academy just built in 1908 was on fire. The fire started at the top of the building and was noticed when the bell was run for recess and the rope fell to the floor ablaze. The fire engine again refused to start, so water was carried from nearby wells by bucket. Everyone knew it was impossible to save the academy because it was so windy. Their aim was to save the rectory and St. Patrick's Church. They wet down the roofs of these two buildings, but the roof of the rectory caught fire before they had their mission accomplished.
Tony Treiber was credited for saving the rectory. He was a strong young man. He took a pail of water and threw it up on the roof near the blaze. The water hit the blaze, and the fire was extinguished. Pieces of burning wood blew as far east as the P.C. Keitges residence. All that remained of practically new brick building was the walls. The building was a total loss.
The fire had started in the belfry of the academy. Birds had built nests in a sort of decorative cupola at the top of the building, and, due to the high winds that day, fire sparks from the chimney set the nests on fire, and this in turn set the building on fire.
The total loss of the two fires that day amounted to $35,000.
Danbury Public School Improved and Enlarged 1908
During the years 1904 to 1912 there were several superintendents at Danbury Public School. Prof. H.S. Stein came as superintendent 1904 and H.B. Collison was principal and basketball coach. H.B. Collison became superintendent 1908 and was here the 1908-1909 term. Supt. Anthony was here only one term 1909-1910. Supt. Marlin came the fall of 1910 and Carl Stutzman was principal and coach. Supt. Marlin married Orral Gibson, daughter of William and Mary Gibson, Danbury residents. Mr. Marlin left Danbury in 1915.
There had not been too many improvements to the Danbury Public School since the school was rebuilt after the tornado in 1883. The first modern convenience was installation of a water system in 1899. The school had its own sewage system. Each year more pupils were attending the school. In 1908 it was decided to enlarge the school, dimensions about the same as the first part to be added on the west side. William Kinney was given the contract to do the remodeling. On first floor was the entry, 2 cloak rooms for grade students, a large hallway and stairway to the upstairs with 2 stairways to the basement, and four classrooms. On second floor was the superintendentÕs office, a large assembly room, a science laboratory room, a classroom, and a large hall where wraps were kept. There was a full basement, and the building was heated with steam heat. The basement was divided in half, the girls' restroom in one half, and the boys' in the other half. The boys manual training room was also in the basement, and also was the furnace room. There was a water fountain in the downstairs hall, and the rope to ring the school bell hung down in the hall also. In 1908 the high school girls had their home economics class in the Review Office. All high school plays, etc. were put on in Braig's Hall until Opera House was built. Boys and girls basketball was on an outside dirt court from 1908-1920.
Boys and girls basketball were first introduced into the Danbury Public School in 1908 when H.B. Collison was superintendent. He trained both boys and girls. The boys for training ran the half-mile race track in the park. The boys wore uniforms that covered the entire body throughout the game. A few years later when the boys removed their sweat shirts and played in bare arms, the parents were shocked. The boys on that first team were Clifford Cord, Clem Osborn, Charley Frentress, Ben Osborn, Ray Wadell and Carlyle Powell. This team never lost a game all season, and they played one shut out game, defeating Mapleton 30-0.
This team was a championship team. A championship team then was one who won all games. There were no tournaments. Teams played then were towns along C. & N.W. Railroad line from Odebolt to Castana and Oto, Anthon and Smithland. They traveled by train to towns on railroad line, but by horseback or by some horsedrawn conveyance to the other towns. Towns to the east could come to Danbury on the 3 p.m. train. School would be dismissed early when visitors were coming, and band and high school students would go to the train to meet them. A few yells would be given and the band would play a number and then all would go to the school house lawn. The teams would go to the basement and change clothes and the rooters would sit on the side lines. The ball court was marked with powdered lime. If the game was completed in time the team could return to the east on the 7:00 p.m. train. Sometimes teams had to stay overnight. A boy playing guard would stay overnight with the guard playing opposite him. This made a friendly relationship between the youngsters. Games were often held on Saturday.
The girls team in 1908 was composed of Nellie Upham, Wanda Spencer, Grace Harvey, Lottie Clements, Hope Seibold, and Alice Hoyt. The girls wore black bloomers with pleated skirts, white blouses, long black stockings held up with a girdle, and they pinned up their long hair. In those years there was no practicing of basketball during school hours. It was strictly an outside activity.
Supt. Collison was in Danbury only one school term. Supt. Anthony who followed was coach 1909-1910, Supt. Marlin came the Fall of 1910, and he coached the boys; Supt. Carl Stutzman who was principal coached the girls.
The boys playing on the 1910-11 team were Bernard Collins, Paul Frentress, Lewis Santee, Dan Hayden, Harold Tangeman, and Clarence Newell.
Changes on Main Street Before the Fire in 1910
Maple Valley Lumber Co. 1906: In 1906 a group of interested parties decided to form a company and start a new lumber yard. Their intentions were announced in the Sioux City Journal. S.H. Bowman, who had operated a lumber yard in Danbury since 1883, saw the notice in the paper and sold their yards and supplies to the group. The Bowmans were owners of many lumber yards in small towns in the area. Pierre Keitges was hired to manage the yard. New improvements were made upon purchase, and a new 100' shed with cement piers was built in 1910. Mr. Keitges bought out the older members of the company and became sole owner. Wayne Keitges, a son of Pierre, helped his father in the yards after completion of his schooling.
Barry Bros. and Beginning of Ford Business 1908: Pat and Mike Barry bought the first Ford in 1908. In 1910 they built the cement building to the west of their livery. On May 23, 1911, Pat Barry attended the auto show in Sioux City, and he signed a Ford contract with the Ford company to sell Fords. Jack Sevening and Tony Reimer were the first two persons in Danbury to buy Fords in 1911. The first carload of cars arrived by train in 1914. John Kane and Bessie Caldoun (Mrs. Forest Speery) who was bookkeeper were two of their first employees.
Henry and Patrick Fitzpatrick: Henry and Pat Fitzpatrick had been in business a number of years and had built a part of Fitzpatrick Hardware. In 1908 they extended their building to the alley. In 1911 they built a second building of brick to the east of their hardware on Second Street. Patrick then sold cars and implements. He claimed he sold the first car in Danbury, a Rambler. Pat also sold International equipment.
International Harvester put out the first tractor, a Titan or Mogul kerosene tractor in 1910. This tractor cost $675 cash. Farmers did not consider them reliable, and they were too costly. This tractor had 45 horsepower and weighed 11 tons. It was not until World War I when there was a shortage of horses that tractors became popular. Pat sold this business to Albert Kueny about 1915.
Confectionery Sold 1910: James Sexton bought the confectionery from Ed Driscoll in 1910. James Sexton married Nellie Lynch. Bernard Collins worked in the confectionery which, besides selling confections, had an ice cream parlor.
Millard Frum Produce 1905: Millard Frum and Leola Canty who were schoolmates married after their graduation, April 17, 1902. They lived in Homer, NE, 3 years after they married and then returned to Danbury where Millard's father bought a creamery and produce store and started Millard in business. Millard also sold feeds.
Bart Barry, Pool Hall 1906: Bart Barry, the third son of Bartholomew and Mary Ann Barry, came to Danbury from the farm, and he, too, became a businessman. A pool hall was built in 1906 (present Tom Barry Tavern). For a few years Bart converted it to a bowling alley. He sold this business in 1919 when he bought the Maurice Colbert implement and hardware business.
Changes on Main Street After Fire Losses
P.C. Keitges, mayor, and his councilmen met soon after the fire and discussed ways to improve the fire department and water supply. A new gas engine was purchased, good hose and hose cart. A hose was rolled on a circular device on the cart, and in case of a fire, the cart was pulled to the nearest fire hydrant and hose was unrolled and stretched out to the building on fire. A second deep well was dug at the Pump House. More fire hydrants were installed. All buildings on Main Street were to be of brick hereafter.
There was much reconstruction on Main Street the summer of 1910, and some new construction which changed the looks of Main Street. The following are improvements made.
Danbury Park on Main Street Destroyed 1910-1911: When the town was first planned there was a park planned on Main Street to the south of Louck's Drug Store. Trees had been planted there, and a well dug and hand pump installed. This well was for the general public, and one could always get a fresh cup of water there. Seats were scattered about the park, and in the summer months men would be seen there visiting, playing cards, whittling or playing horseshoes. Godfrey Durst, Sr. the miller, Mr. Richard Loucks the druggist, and Thomas Frentress a farmer were often seen playing a game of croquet there. The band gave concerts there. On days of celebrations the mothers sat on the benches while caring for their children. Many trees had been planted in our present park when the fairs were held in Danbury 1891-1904, and these trees by 1910 were good sized, and this was an ideal place for the new park. As more space for buildings on Main Street was needed, the trees planted there were uprooted and the park destroyed.
O'Day Drug Store 1910: Jim and John O'Day built a new 1-story brick drug store.
Mr. Godfrey Durst: He owned the post office and Danbury Review office building that burned. He built a new 1-story brick building on that location. He and the O'Day brothers had a single wall between their buildings and one continuous front.
Drug Store 1911: The Loucks Drug Store, built in 1878 by Richard Loucks, had served the town well for 32 years. It was a wooden structure, 2-stories, and it had a balcony entrance to the second floor. The Loucks family at one time lived upstairs in the drug store. The Parks sisters, Olive and May taught dressmaking in the upstairs rooms a number of years. Nellie Lynch learned dressmaking there and also helped the Parks girls. Godfrey Durst Sr. bought this property, and he built a new drugstore on this location.
The Loucks family moved to Sioux City in 1910. A drug and stationery company was organized in 1911, and W.E. Schuyler was hired as manager. A short time later, Mr. Schuyler bought out all outlying stock and became the sole owner. The store was known as Schuyler's Drug Store. Bill Schuyler and wife Edna managed this store many years and raised their family in Danbury. The children were Martha, Fred, Edward, Virginia, and George.
Changes on Main Street After Fire Losses Collins Hotel 1910: Mrs. Nora McQuillen had been operating the Paris Hotel on the corner of Third and Main Streets. This property in 1910 was purchased by John Foulks and the Masons of Danbury. The old hotel was torn down and a new one built in its place. The new hotel was a 3-story wooden structure with basement. There was a large dining room, wash room, office, a writing room where traveling men made out their orders, a kitchen, and living quarters for the manager and his family on first floor. There were 11 hotel bedrooms and a bath on the second floor. The third floor was used as a Masonic Hall from 1910-1912. After the Masons moved to the present Masonic Hall in 1912, 9 more bedrooms were built and furnished on the third floor of the hotel. Mrs. McQuillen managed this hotel for a short time after it was built, but she continued to operate at a loss, so she decided to retire. John and Bridget Collins, who had operated the Commercial Hotel until 1910 when John Crilly bought the property to build a new store, were urged to take over management of this new hotel, which they did. The hotel became a very popular and busy place. At one time Mrs. Collins baked all the bread served, and the dining table was always stretched to its full length across the dining room, and often the table was filled more than once. Many traveling men stayed there, and Mrs. Collins always fed all roomers and some out siders. The Collins had four children, Bernard who married Bessie Braig, Genevieve (Mrs. Bart Barry), Esther and Lucille. As the years passed, the hotel business dwindled. The coming of the automobile was a contributing factor to the ruinization of the hotel's business. This hotel was razed February 1956. St. Patrick Academy Rebuilt 1910: The Catholics of St. PatrickÕs rebuilt their school, starting work as soon as weather permitted, in the spring of 1910. C.F. Meyer of Humboldt, Iowa, who was the contractor for the academy built in 1908, also built the second academy. The second academy was built similar to the first except for one alteration. The cupola at the top of the building was closed. The new building was contracted for $30,000. A crew of men came to Danbury from Humboldt, and these men roomed and boarded at the Collins Hotel. School children attended classes in the old wooden academy at the rear of the St. Patrick's property after the school burned. The building was completed by November. Dedication Ceremonies were held on November 10, 1910. Ceremony taken from Danbury Review. ÒCeremonies were presided over by Rt. Rev. Bishop Garrigan. The religious ceremony consisted of a Solemn Mass with Rev. J.A. Kerny as celebrant, Fr. Cooke as Deacon, Fr. McNeal as Sub-Deacon, and Fr. Costello as Master of Ceremonies. The Rev. P.F. Farrelly preached an impressive sermon to the 44 children who received their First Communion and were afterwards confirmed. The entire congregation went to Holy Communion. The new academy was then blessed. Vicar General Saunders of Fort Dodge and a number of priests assisted the Bishop during the ceremony. All of those taking part in the services had dinner in the academy at one oÕclock p.m. That evening a banquet and ball were held in the auditorium. The building was brilliantly lighted which gave all visitors an opportunity to visit all the rooms. Many thought the new building was even better than the first building. P.A. McGlaughlin gave the address of welcome at the banquet, Godfrey Durst Sr. gave an interesting talk about Danbury, and he was greeted with a burst of applause. He spoke of the educational, religious and business facilities offered in Danbury. Our produce, he said, was sent over a wider range of territory than any other town in the state. He spoke of the three churches in Danbury and said they offered all an opportunity to worship as they wished. He designated the academy as the pride of Danbury and spoke enthusiastically of the excellent school facilities of this place. He ended his speech by paying a high tribute to Rev. Timothy Meagher to whom a good deal of the credit for the academy was due. Others who participated in the ceremony were Miss Alice Crilly who played a piano selection, Miss Lorene Callighan who sang an Irish song, Miss Tess Schroeder who played a piano, and Mrs. Callaghan and Conway who sang "The Evening Bell." Sieg Simmons gave a short speech, and Rt. Rev. Bishop Garrigan was the main speaker. The auditorium was cleared after the banquet, and everyone danced to the music of the Collins Orchestra from Marcus, Iowa.Ó New Homes: Mark Durst, Peter Keitges and Otto Schrank all built new homes in 1910. Crilly Store 1910-1912: Mr. Crilly bought the Commercial Hotel and lot in 1910. The building was then divided and one-half section was moved to the northeast part of town, and the other half moved to the southwest part of town. Work was begun on the new building in 1911. The store was a brick, one story building about 80 by 54 foot dimension. The store was fully modern. It was a general merchandise store ,selling groceries, dry goods, shoes, overshoes, menÕs, womenÕs and childrenÕs clothing etc. The new store was officially opened in 1912, and a large crowd congregated at the store the day of the opening. Mr. Crilly gave souvenirs the day of the opening. Mr. Crilly was a good businessman and through the years continually strived to increase his business. His two sons, Charley and Alfred helped in the store and eventually took over the management. The store was first known as J.H. Crilly Store, then J.H. Crilly and Sons, and later still Crilly Brothers. It was in operation from 1912 when completed to October 13, 1968. John Crilly came to Danbury 1882 when a young man. He soon secured work in the Shepard, Field and Cook store which was managed by Ben Santee. From 1904 to 1907, he was in partnership in the store with Will Gibson. He bought out his partner, Will Gibson in 1907, and he was the sole owner until he built the new store and sold the old store to Jones and Schrepher in 1912. John Crilly was united in marriage to Rosa Welte, daughter of Jacob and Theresa Welte on February 12, 1884. He bought the LouckÕs property about 1910 when the Richard Loucks family left Danbury. The Loucks house was moved north to the next block (Rossener Home), and the Crillys then built a new home about the same time as they built the store. The Crillys had children, William, Charly who married Florence Cooper a former Danbury school teacher, Alfred, and Mary (Mrs. Lawrence Kerwin). John Crilly died on November 19, 1930 when 71 years old. Rosa died on October 15, 1959. Alfred died in 1972, and Charles in 1973. Danbury Trust and Savings Bank 1911: It was announced in 1911 that Danbury was to have a second bank. D.H. Dedrick who lived in Ida County and the Danbury Masonic Order planned to build it. This was to be a two-story brick building. There was room for extra offices at the rear of the bank which was to be on first floor. Hal Richards, Danbury dentist for many years, had his office there. The bank was on the first floor, and the Masonic Hall on the second floor. D.H. Hedrick served as the first president. The bank had a capital of $25,000. Louis Derr was cashier, George Braig was vice president, and the board of directors were P.C. Keitges and Henry Diimig. By 1919, William and Frank Berger were president and vice president and Casper Brenner was cashier. Albert Reidmiller came to Danbury from Breda and worked in this bank a number of years. The Railroad 1904-1910 The Sioux City and Pacific Railroad was the first to reach Woodbury County, and it extended from Sioux City to Missouri Valley; it was completed in April, 1868. That span was 75 miles long and Sgt. Bluff, Sloan and Salix were on it. The Chicago and Northwestern started building the railroad that came through Danbury in 1872, and it was completed the fall of 1877 as far as Mapleton where there was a turntable. Here it turned around and went back to Carroll. Contracts read that the line was to be built from Carroll to Onawa where it would meet up with the Sioux City and Pacific. The persons living between Mapleton and Onawa did not like this as they had been promised a railroad, and the persons on this side of Mapleton did not like it either as they wanted an outlet to the west as well as the east. The Chicago Northwestern completed the line in 1886. Stockyards had been built at all stations along the line. All livestock was shipped to Chicago in these years. Cattle were driven to the livestock yards, and hogs were hauled to town by wagons. Each year the business grew to greater proportions. Farmers who shipped livestock usually accompanied it to Chicago, and they often purchased feeder cattle and had them shipped to Danbury. The Chicago Commission men came by train to Danbury to solicit business, and nearly every farmer took the "Drovers Journal," a livestock paper printed in Chicago that kept the farmer posted as to prices on all products and produce. Four freight trains went through Danbury every day. Livestock was shipped out Saturday afternoon. The farmer brought his stock to the stock yards Saturday morning. As the freight train came down the line from Onawa, it stopped at each town and picked up carloads of loaded livestock. By the time the train reached Carroll a train was made up of 75 cars to be sent on to Chicago. The Sioux City market grew and also became a popular market. A freight left Carroll on Saturday morning, and it, too would pick up carloads of stock all along the line. The train would arrive in Sioux City early Monday morning. A carload of eggs was shipped from Mapleton and Danbury about every third day. Carloads of live poultry also shipped to Chicago. Cream was shipped to Carroll. Danbury had the record of having more grain shipped than any other market along the line. At one time there were four elevators in the town. All Morgan Twp. farmers sold their grain at Danbury. In 1904 all merchandise ordered by merchants was shipped by freight. The merchandise was purchased first from traveling salesmen and they sent in the orders to the company.
The Railroad
1904-1910
The drayman was very important as he had to pick up all merchandise that came by train. He met all trains, loaded the freight and delivered it. Large steam engines, machinery, furniture, windmills etc. all came by freight. Even money was shipped by train. Mr. James Lacey told the story that his landlord, a Mr. Stone, sent him $3,000 in cash. Mr. Lacey picked it up at the depot. It was money for a new barn on his farm (present Maurine Towne farm).
Two passenger trains went to and returned from Sioux City every day by 1904. When traffic was extremely heavy, an extra passenger car ÒThe FlyerÓ was put on. It was not unusual to see 100 or more persons taking the train to Sioux City. Many from Danbury attended the Sioux City Corn Palace Days, fairs, etc. There were two waiting rooms at the depot, and when the one at the west end was filled to capacity, the overflow was sent to the waiting room at the east end of the depot. The railroads offered excursions to Mexico, California, New Orleans, Gulf Port, Miss., Florida, Hot Springs, Arkansas, and Havana, Cuba. In 1904 the Union Pacific and Northwestern lines made two trips via Chicago to California daily by Overland Limited. The train was electrically lighted and made the trip in three days. Excursions were offered to World Fairs, state fairs, etc. In 1917 when Texas wanted investors to buy their land, they sent a Mr. McColl to Danbury, and he arranged several excursions from Danbury to buy land around Beaumont, Texas. A man could make the trip for $40, and for $10 extra he could take his wife along. Real estate agents had tours arranged there. There were high pressured salesmen, and they used fraudulent gimmicks to fool buyers. Land was held for $400 an acre. That was a high price for land at that time. Some bought and were able to hold it, others lost.
Railroads had their share of troubles, too. In the winters the snow became so deep that the trains became immovable. The Danbury train would often get as far as Odebolt and then stall. Several times in past history a sled, team and driver went to Odebolt or Ida Grove to get the Danbury mail. One winter after a bad snowstorm, men from every town in this end of the line went to help scoop snow from the tracks so the train could get through. The men lived in special railroad cars while clearing the snow. There was no mail for 8 days that winter, and there was a shortage of coal. In 1909 the Northwestern Railway bought a Rotary Rexo Pafer, a snow removal whirler. This was attached to the front of an engine and as the engine pushed the machine into the snow drifts, the rotary motion scattered the snow.
Roads
Liston Township was divided into road districts in 1860. Roads were crooked, were dirt, and often were too low and flooded easily. Road gangs were hired to keep the roads in shape. They moved from place to place and camped out. A chuck wagon was moved around with them, and a cook was hired to feed the men. All work was done with fresnos, horses, and mules. There was a poll-tax which required every farmer to give two days work a year to keep up the roads. One day you were to furnish a team of horses. The first township maintainer was pulled with horses, and the first operator was Patrick Rush. Farmers often drug the roads and helped to maintain them also.
Roads were at first not named by numbers. What was later No. 20 was called ÒRed BallÓ, and No. 75 was K.T., No. 30 was Lincoln Highway, and No. 141 was the Denison Highway. There were very few road signs, and one could easily get lost going to Sioux City. Some of the roads followed the old ridge roads until they were paved, and that did not occur until 1930. It did not seem so important to have good roads until automobiles were used extensively. Roads later were made every mile along the section line.
ENTERTAINMENT 1904 to 1912 IN DANBURY
Roosevelt Republican Rough Riders
1904-R.R.R.R.
An organization called R.R.R.R. was formed after the election of Theodore Roosevelt as President of the United States. Theodore Roosevelt, before elected, had served in the Spanish American War about 1898, and while serving he organized the first U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, and this unit was nicknamed, ÒRough Riders.Ó All members owned and rode a horse, and in parades etc. they usually rode in formation as they had done in the Cavalry. Danbury, when young, had always been very much involved politically, and there were quite a few Republicans that belonged to this club. Exact year of organizing is not known, but it had been established here by 1904. They always rode in the parades carrying a large flag on poles, depicting the organization, and every member carried a small flag. It was quite colorful in the parades. They also held regular meetings, and at election time they became quite active. In 1904 they received a fine silk banner and a bunting flag which were mounted on poles. The banner was done in gold leaf with the name of the town and the letters R.R.R.R. in the center of the flag.
Epworth League
The young men and women of Epworth League put on a concert in 1905. It was held in BraigÕs Hall. Following was a program.
YE GREAT OLDE TYME CONCERTE--1905
To be given at ye old Towne Halle which is situated on ye great public highway called Main, Friday In ye evening, ye XXII day of ye 9th month, year MCMV by ye young menne and womenne which belong to ye Epworth League
A Loud Pyece.......ye Singing
School
Address.. Deacon E.W. Oates who lives 40 yards tÕother
side of ye tavern.
A Very Nice Pyece.......Gladys
Rachel Powell, ye first
daughter of ye painter
man, Arthur Powell and his wife Mary.
Speaking.Gracie Jane Loucks
Ye second daughter of
Richard Henry Loucks who
keeps ye Apothicarie shop
on ye corner, and his wife
Marjorie Ann.
A II Part song ..... II spinsters
Eola Elizabeth Hart and
Lonnie Lovina Hayden.
A Very World-like Pyece
Mabel
Matilda Gibson.
In so much as
this maiden is
unused to
singing before
so many
people, young
men and
bachelors are
desired to look
away lest she
be ashamed and fall.
A Good Pyece....
Mistress
Caroline Ida
Dudley. She
that was a
Selby.
A Song............... Grandfather
Snodgrass. Ye
young meene
and womenne
will keep very decorous
lest ye disturb
ye gude old
man and put
him out of tyme.
A Song ............. Mrytie Maria
Oates, If so be she gets
there in tyme.
Mr. H.S. Stein
YE NEXT PARTE
A Song for II.........Lulu Sophia
Hanford, Catherine Bellinda
Smith. If ye younge menne
wish to hear ye sweet strains
again ye will have to clap
your hands and not stamp
your feet for it is unseemlie. Composition on ye Seasons..
Elizabeth Ann Virtue
who is commonly called
Lizzie in these parts.
A Funny II Part Song............
Archibald Bartholomew
Dowling and his gude wife
Nellie Maud. Ye actions of
ye young menne and
maidens will be watched by
ye ushers while ye II are
singing and undue levitie and
sparking will be mentioned
from ye pulpit on the coming
Sunday.
Song.......Old Folks at Home-
Frederick Alexander
Schrepher- Ye young
womenne are requested not
to attract his attention lest he
forget to keep tyme of ye
musick.
Speaking ..... Mistress Matilda
Jane Messenger-Only wife
of C.J. Messenger who is the
parson of ye Methodist
Episcopal meeting house of
ye village.
A songe.......................Maude
Carolynn Jeness Johnson
who lives in Ole Virginia.
Another Song........Some very
aged spinsters-namely
Ruth Ann Frentress and
her sisters Mary Jane and
Margaret Memory, Esther
Consolation Hart, Priscilla
Screech Powell, Patience
Samantha Gibson, Jemina
Violet Spencer, Prudence
Belle Hayden and Mercy
Peace Cord. Ye men are
asked to keep ye seats till
ye sweet strains have all
died away. If there be any
menne waiting for ye
maidens they may be
waiting at ye outside doors of ye halls.
A Song of Ye Olden Tyme....
Ye Singing School
N.B. Ye musick will begin atte ye early candle lyte which is half after seven by the towne clocke and no more. N.B. Ye price to in shall be twenty-five pennies save to ye little boys and girls who may be fifteen pennies.
N.B. If so be that the menne and womenne desire to come in pairs they may hear ye sweet strains for forty-five pennies for ye II. N.B. Ye dore keeper shall be Louis Larsen who works in ye monie store of ye village.
N.B. Ye ushers shall be Flora Mary Betts and Elizabeth Ann Virtue.
N.B. Ye singing master is Gleason Abraham Dudley, and ye accompanist is Hope Lucinda Seibold who plays the Melodeon.
ENTERTAINMENT 1904 to 1912 IN DANBURY
1910 SCHOOL PROGRAM AT DANBURY PUBLIC SCHOOL
Parody Harold Tangeman
Newspaper Minnie Mohr
Oration Hilda Hand
Song Society
Book Review Pearl Jones
Oration Clara Brown
Autobiography Charley
Frentress
Oration Ethel Brown
Debate: Resolved that we owe more to the Negro than to the Indian.
Affirmative - Laura Durst, Maude McCarthy, Freyda Mohr.
Negative - Clifford Waddell, Charley Frentress, Wier Murphy.
Oration Charlotte Clement
Song Society Supt. Marlin 1910.
| PROGRAMME | |
|---|---|
| MATRONS DECLAMATORY CONTEST AND THE PEAK SISTERS | |
| BraigÕs Hall, Danbury, Iowa | |
| FRIDAY EVENING, APRIL 14, Ô05 | |
| The Owl | Emerson |
| Danbury Male Quartet | |
| H.S. Stein, A.B. Dowling, G.A. Dudley, E.W. Oates | |
| READINGS | |
| King Robert of Sicily, Longfellow | Mrs. L.B. Jeness |
| Welcome Sweet Day of Rest, Anonymous | |
| Mrs. W.C. Hayden | |
| Briar Rose, Anonymous | |
| Mrs. E.W. Oates | |
| A Welch Classic, Ballard | |
| Mrs. M.D. Cord | |
| How it Happened, James Whitcomb Riley | Ruth Smith |
| Genevra, Anonymous | |
| Mrs. C.J. Messenger | |
| The First Settlers Story | |
| Mrs. G.A. Dudley | |
| Rev. H.G. Pittenger, | |
| Mapleton, Ia. | |
| Judges - Prof. T.V. Bird - Mapleton, Ia. | |
| Rev. Father Meagher | |
| Presentation of prizes | |
| Mrs. C. Fesenbeck | |
| Vocal Solo - In the Dark, In the Dew | |
| Four Leaf Clover | Mrs. G.A. |
| Dudley | |
| PART II | |
| Peak Sisters - - - - - - - Cast of Characters | |
| Kesiah | Miss Grace Loucks |
| Dorothy | Mrs. J.W. Lippold |
| Bethia | Mrs. E.E. Crane |
| Serena | Mrs. E.A. Frentress |
| Sophia | Mrs. C.F. Seibold |
| Samantha | Mrs. E.B. Spencer |
| Belinda | Mrs. C.J. Messenger |
| Betsy | Mrs. F.I. Clement |
| Maria | Miss Lulu Hanford |
| Jemina | Mrs. A.B. Dowling |
| Mehitable | Mrs. E.W. |
| Oates(Accompanist) | |
| PROGRAM COMMENCES 8:15 |
Baseball Team
Danbury was always interested in baseball and had a team since the town began. Ball games were played at all events that took place in town. The town band sat in the amphitheater and played a number occasionally to liven things up. There usually was some betting. The 1911 team was a good team. Those playing on this team were Patsy Conway, Pitcher; Frank Morrisey, Catcher; Jim Frentress; Russell Hollister; Bart Barry, Frank Quigley; Hugh Howard; N.E. Woolman; and Ed McQuillen. Substitutes were Paul Frentress, Jack Jones, John McCabe, Bernard Collins, and Bun Powell.
From The Danbury Review, 1911: ÒIn a ball game played on the local diamond last Tuesday afternoon, the Danbury team won by a forfeit from the Oto Braves. A fast and exciting game was in progress up to the 7th inning when the Oto Braves became irked at the umpire for the decision at 2nd base, and after much ÒChewing the Rag,Ó they packed up their wraps and went home. Danbury was ahead 2 to 1 at the time. The Danbury band furnished the music for the occasion.Ó
Other players that played for Danbury were Oscar Carlson, Matt Drea, Leslie Sexton, Frank Kinney and Rowley Williams.
| Main Street, Danbury, Iowa 1910-1911 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayor P.C. Keitges | |||
| Councilmen - (Meeting room First State Bank) | |||
| Henry Fitzpatrick | |||
| George J. Braig | |||
| C.F. Seibold | |||
| Wm. Schneph | |||
| J.W. Kinney | |||
| Treasurer | J.H. Crilly | ||
| Assessor | P.C. Keitges | ||
| Clerk | P.A. McGlaughlin | ||
| Men in Business: | |||
| Elevators | |||
| Durst Brothers Roller Banner Mills and Elevator - Godfrey Durst Jr. and Mark Durst | |||
| F.H. Hancock - Ace Nicholls and Tangeman 1908. They sold to Mike Burke March 10, 1910. He built a bigger and better elevator. | |||
| Lumber Yards | |||
| Wm. Schneph | |||
| Maple Valley Lbr. Yd.- P.C. Keitges Mgr. | |||
| General Merchandise Stores | |||
| J.H. Crilly sold to Wm. Jones and John Schrepher 1911 | |||
| John Crilly - New Store | |||
| George C. Braig - Braig Store | |||
| E.E. Crane | |||
| Hardwares | |||
| Fitzpatrick Brothers | |||
| George C. Braig | |||
| Undertaker - Henry Fitzpatrick | |||
| Draymen - J.A. Harrigan | |||
| Ed Tangeman | |||
| J.A. Stanton - Dray, baggage and express. | |||
| Liveries | |||
| Barry Brothers - Livery and Stable - Town and Country | |||
| W.H. Jones - City Livery Stable | |||
| Butcher Shops | |||
| Clancy and Flood Meat Market | |||
| John Hart (Shop burned in February 1910. Started another shop on east side of Main St.) | |||
| Danbury State Bank | |||
| Lewis Larsen - Cashier, Wm. Gibson and Flora Betts | |||
| Coffee Shop - Joe Wienand | |||
| Blacksmith and Wagon Making - J.M. Boyer | |||
| City Bakery - H. Dirksen | |||
| Barbers - John Quigley, Jay Smith and Frank Neustrom | |||
| Contractor and Builder - F.I. Clement | |||
| Dentist - W.H. Richards | Drug Store | ||
| OÕDay Drug Store - Jim and John OÕDay | W.E. Schuyler when new drug store finished in 1911 | ||
| Shoe Repair - A.E. Keller | |||
| Coal - J.F. Mohr | |||
| Collins Hotel built 1910 - Prop. John Collins | |||
| Tie Barn - Elzie Tangeman | |||
| Auctioneer - Irving Ells | |||
| Real Estate - Joseph OÕDougherty | |||
| Tailoring - Mrs. Walter Hand | |||
| Olive and May Parks up to 1910 | |||
| Mrs. Mahoney - Taught dressmaking, a seamstress | |||
| (Cord Building) | |||
| Insurance and Real Estate - M.D. Cord | |||
| Wagon and repair shop - S.R. Haberstreit | |||
| Mason - Jacob Wendell | |||
| Beer Tavern - F.B. Collins | |||
| Painters and Paper Hangers: | |||
| Arthur Powell | |||
| George Pullis | |||
| C.W. Piersol - Attorney from Sioux City | |||
| Postmaster and Editor of Danbury Review | |||
| L.B. Jeness (Sold to C.L. Adams 1911) | |||
| Doctors - | |||
| Wm. L. Creswell | |||
| J.J. Murphy | |||
| G.W. Murphy | |||
| Corn Shelling - Tony Treiber | |||
| Bruce Edgington - Lumber Yard | |||
| Depot Agent - A.B. Dowling | |||
| St. Mary's - Rev. A.J. Schafer | |||
| St. Patrick's - Rev. Timothy Meagher | |||
| Methodist - Rev. J.R. Tumbleson 1910 | Rev. Ezra Cathcart 1911 | ||
| Danbury Trust and Savings Bank organized Nov. 1911 | |||
| Officers - D.H. Hedrick - Pres. George Braig - Vice Pres. Louis Derr Cashier | |||
| Board of Directors: P.C. Keitges, Henry Diimig | |||
| Photographer - Chas. Parker, Mapleton, Ia. | |||
| Harness Shop - Emil and Broder Jacobsen |
DANBURY IN FIRST WORLD WAR YEARS
Mayors
C.F. Seibold 1912-1914
J.F. Mohr 1914-1916
M.W. Colbert 1916-1920
By the first of year 1912 Danbury Main Street had an all new look after all the building done in 1910 and 1911. Charley Seibold, who was elected Mayor in 1912, decided along with his councilmen that the town needed a new place for entertainment. Braig Hall, up to 1912, had been used for all public functions. The schools had used it for recitals, plays, etc. When Brose Pullis managed the hall in 1912 he introduced the silent movies. There were at first two shows a week, but they were so popular and drew such large crowds that he began to have four shows a week. This led the town fathers to hold a meeting to discuss building a new hall.
THE OPERA HOUSE 1912
A meeting was held on June 20, 1912. It was estimated a new building would cost the town $6,000.00. The council and mayor decided to ask for donations from the townÕs citizens; $4,500 was raised in this way. On August 9, 1912, a meeting was held at FitzpatrickÕs Garage, and an Opera House Company was organized. Directors chosen were C.F. Seibold, President; J.H. Crilly, Vice President; W.E. Schuyler, Secretary; and Directors were George G. Braig, J.C. Rhode and M.D. Cord.
The organization advertised for bids for the erection of the building. C.F. Mayer of Humboldt, Iowa, was awarded the contract. Work was to begin immediately and to be finished on June 15, 1913. The building when completed cost $7000, a thousand more than the estimate. Mr. C.E. Johnson was hired as manager, to care for the building and arrange for all entertainment there.
The first entertainment planned was a home talent play on August 27, 1913. From that time on there were many plays, traveling shows, dances, school functions, movies, etc. held there. In 1920 Mr. Johnson was given permission to let the schools use the hall for basketball, and the schools used it until a new school and gymnasium was built in 1929. There was a large auditorium space with stage and dressing rooms to the rear and a balcony toward the front of the building.
The movie equipment was in the balcony. The space under the stage was used for storage of fire fighting equipment and a jail. The monthly meetings of the mayor and council were held there after 1912. The fire bell which had been on the LouckÕs Drug Store corner was moved to this location, also.
Other Changes On Main Street 1912-1920
Confectionery: Dick Colbert and Pat McGlaughlin
In 1915 James and Nellie Sexton sold the confectionery to Dick Colbert. When he was called to serve in the army during World War I, he sold the confectionery to Pat McGlaughlin. Pat had worked as a clerk in John CrillyÕs store for 20 years.
Dick Colbert, Meat Market:
When Dick returned from the service when the war was over, February 8, 1919, he bought the Crippen Meat Market.
Pierce Tie Barn 1914
Elzie Tangeman sold the Tie Barn to Luther Pierce in 1914. Mr. Pierce operated the barn with the help of his son, Louis. A month after the barn was purchased, it burned, June 30, 1914.
From The Danbury Review - ÒThe Pierce Tie Barn, operated by Louis Pierce and his father, Luther Pierce, was built by Elzie Tangeman. The building was sold to Luther Pierce on May 15, 1914, and about a month later, June 30, 1914, the Tie Barn burned. The fire started in a stall for horses on the west side. A team of horses was lost in that fire. On September 1, 1914, they started rebuilding the barn for Luther Pierce. The new barn had cement walls up to the eaves of the roof.Ó
This barn was used as a horse barn up to the 1930s. It then was used for a variety of different businesses: gas station, feed store, sales ring, auto repair shop, trucking quarters and even a dance hall.
Maurice Colbert, Implements 1914
George Braig sold his implement business to Maurice Colbert in 1914.
Antone Reimer - Elevator
John Hancock sold his elevator to Antone Reimer. AntoneÕs sons Tony, Peter and Joe took care of the business.
Andy and Leo Matt - Hardware 1919
George Braig sold his hardware to Andy and Leo Matt.
Farmers Cooperative Store 1919
George Braig sold his store to a group of farmers. The farmers group hired William Boeshe of Omaha to come to manage the store for them. The store was called the Farmers Store.
Karl Paulsen Store 1920
Jones and Schrepher went broke, and they sold out to Karl Paulsen.
Bart Barry Implement 1919
Bart Barry bought the Maurice Colbert Implement business after his death.
Other Changes On Main Street 1912-1920
Reimer Brothers 1918: The Reimer Brothers, Antone, Peter and Joe bought out the Kueny Brothers, Garage and car dealership, 1918. Tony then ran the elevator and Peter and Joe managed the garage and implement business. They advertised the Star, Dodge and Plymouth cars. Their Star advertisement said, ÒThe Star will run 24 miles on a gallon of gas, 500 miles on a quart of oil, and a set of tires that will last for 15,000 miles.Ó Stars ranged in price from $525 to $795. The Reimers later sold International trucks and tractors, feed, gas, feed supplies and they had a garage and repair shop in their building.
Barry Brothers 1915: Mike and Pat Barry built a new brick building 1915, after they began to sell cars. They sold gas and also maintained a repair shop.
Doc And Virginia Folkins 1919: Doc and Virginia Folkins bought the Derksen Bakery about 1919.
Fitzpatrick Brothers 1918: In 1918 the Fitzpatrick brothers Pat and Henry broke up their partnership of 25 years. Henry continued in the hardware store. Pat opened a Heating and Electric Shop in a building north of the Fitzpatrick Hardware.
Jack Evans, Barber, came to Danbury 1919. Jack had a shop beneath the Billiard Hall. John Ehrig worked for him after finishing his barber course.
Quigleys Barber Shop 1917: The Quigley Barber Shop burned 1917. The building next to it also burned, believed to have been the Glassey Variety Store. These buildings were on the east side of Main Street. They never were replaced.
George Elskamp 1919 - Harness Shop: George bought the harness shop from Walter and Fred Elskamp (cousins) who had to answer their call to serve in the army in World War I.
OÕDay Brothers, Jim and John, sell their drug store and leave Danbury 1920.
Nick Peters Mailman 1908-1920 (moved to Colorado)
James Harrigan Mailman
C.L. Adams: Sold Danbury Review to Clarence E. Johnson 1913.
Seibold Building: Built 1919. Mrs. Emma Seibold built the building on west side of Main Street (present office of Robert Shoemaker, veterinarian).
Business Mens Association In Danbury Organized 1903
Reorganized 1919 To Danbury Community Club
The Danbury businessmen formed an organization in 1903, urged all to attend and take interest in the progress of our town. Many topics of interest were discussed and ways and means to attract trade to the town. A banquet was held yearly to keep the businessmanÕs interest. This organization was very active, and a few of the events sponsored by them are listed below.
Merry-Go-Round - Sometime previous to 1915 the Danbury businessmen bought a merry-go-round and set it up on Main Street across the street from the Mike Rush Blacksmith Shop. On Saturday nights during the summers the farmers came to town, and then all children were allowed to ride on the merry go round free of charge. They could also ride on celebration days. On April 1, 1915 the merry-go-round was being repaired as the businessmen planned to sell it again.
Wednesday and Saturday Nights - The stores stayed open on Wednesday and Saturday night through the summer months. After the coming of cars the streets were lined with cars on these nights. The band gave concerts every Wednesday night during the summers, early 1930s and again in 1950s. The movie house was filled to capacity crowds. The stores remained open until ten or eleven p.m.
Chautauqua - Each summer the Midlands Chautauqua Circuit visited Danbury. Carloads of boosters, businessmen and their friends, went from our town to another to advertise the coming of the Chautauqua. All towns were not on the circuit. In July 1913 eleven loads of boosters and the cornet band visited Oto, Anthon, Smithland and Mapleton and Joe Wienand, Danbury postmaster acted as spokesman. A large tent was erected on the public school playground. An afternoon and evening performance was given each day for a week. There were musicians, acrobats, magicians, Missionaries who told of their travels and other famous speakers. William Jennings Bryan, a renown speaker, spoke at Danbury Chautauqua several times. He published The Commoner, a paper, at Lincoln, Nebraska. He also was a politician and congressman. Talented actors often put on 3-act plays.
Roller Skating Rink - A roller skating rink also visited Danbury yearly. A large tent set up on Main Street. There was a portable floor, roller skates were furnished, and a caliope furnished music while one skated. These rinks would stay in one town a few weeks and then move on via train to another town.
Car Given Away By J.H. Crilly Store - With a purchase from the Crilly Store, customers received a car key. There was a barrel of keys to be given away, and only one would fit the car, 1917. The car was brought through the front door of the store and padlocked. Ninety percent of the keys had been given out, and still there was no winner. Mr. Crilly then said if a person was not found who could unlock the padlock, the car would be sold by February 15, 1917, and the money received for it would be divided equally between the 3 Danbury churches. Harold Williams was the winner of that car.
Piano - George Braig, sponsoring some sort of contest, gave away a piano which was won by Maggie Reimer (Mrs. Frank Erlemeier), Mrs. James Hardman Jr. was second and received a gold watch, and Mrs. Bert Herman was third and won a set of silverware. Louis Derr, Louis Larsen and N.D. Watson supervised and judged during the closing hours of the contest. At another time a fur piece was given away by Mr. Braig - 1915.
Pageant in Park 1910 - A pageant was sponsored by the businessmen in 1910. The townspeople depicted the life of the settlers on the prairies. Had a wagon train of covered wagons, etc. This drew a large crowd.
Field Meet and Tournaments in Danbury Park 1919 - This event was sponsored by the Danbury Business MenÕs AssÕn., and it was advertised thus in the Danbury Review - ÒFriday afternoon there is a nice time in store for you if you enjoy all kinds of sports. The little ones will give an outdoor program. There will be a horseshoe pitching tournament, a ball game, and a machinery demonstration. There will be a dance at the Opera House, HaineÕs Novelty Players, furnishing the music, August 22, 1919.Ó
Home Talent Plays - were popular and often some of the businessmen took parts in them. Dances were always popular, and of course the town always had a menÕs basketball team.
Womanless Wedding - On December 22, 1926, a womanless wedding, all businessmen, was given under auspices of the Ladies Aid of the Methodist Church. This played to two packed houses. Dr. W.H. Richards was the bride, Paddy Houlihan was the groom and they made a striking couple. Mike Barry as Bishop was waiting on the stage as the couple marched up the aisle, and he tied the knot.
Basketball Town Team 1915 - was composed of Al Boyer, Orville Lippold, Rollie Williams, Mark Brady and Dewey Powell.
The Danbury Brass Band - The band was organized in the town by 1890 when the fairs were started, and possibly before that. The businessmen played in this band. On March 12, 1912 a meeting of the town band was held, and the following officers were elected: O.A. Schrank Manager and Leader, John C. Schrepher Treasurer and C.L. Adams Secretary and Librarian. The matter of buying uniforms and building a bandstand were discussed.
A circular band stand was built in the picnic area of the town park, and concerts were given there on days of celebrations. Gold uniforms were purchased, and the band in either 1912 or 1913 played at the State Fair at Des Moines. They won first place. They traveled to Des Moines by train, and while they were there a bad rain storm hit our area, and some of the railroad tracks between Danbury and Ida Grove were washed out. The band members wanted to get back home so walked from Ida Grove to Danbury in the mud. They said they were a sorry sight upon their return, but were the town heroes.
Danbury Community Club 1919 - The Danbury Business Men's Association was revitalized and reorganized in 1919. The name was changed to the Danbury Community Club. The farmers as well as businessmen were asked to participate in this club. Earl Patten was elected president. Their purpose was to discuss problems arising within the town and solutions. Meetings were held monthly, and after a lunch, business was discussed, and then the men spent a social hour of visiting, playing cards, etc. The officers when the town was 100 years old, 1966, were Loyal Treiber, Ed Dirksen, Dick Schrunk, Frank Wessling and Earl Wenger.
Danbury Schools 1912-1920
St. Patrick's
Seven years after the building of the two academies, year 1917, there still was a $12,000 debt to be paid. A mission was held at St. Patrick's in 1917, and two Jesuit Fathers came to Danbury to take charge of the mission. A meeting was held in the school auditorium, and the remaining debt was discussed. It was decided that they raise $6,000 to reduce the principal of the debt. John Crilly came forth with the proposition that he would double the amount that ten other men would give. It was in this way that the debt was paid. On February 4, 1917, a celebration was held in the auditorium of the Academy, and Con Collins and James McGrath had the honor of burning the mortgage. In 1920 Fr. Meagher through the efforts of the Presentation Sisters, had the three year high school changed to an accredited school with a four year course. Some new equipment was added and also some new courses. Sr. Paul, the music instructor, was loved by the whole town. She gave music lessons to students from both St. Mary's and the public school as well as to the children from St. Patrick's. She organized an orchestra.
The first four students to graduate from the four-year high school were Irene Collins (Sr. Mary Irene), Clotilda Fitzpatrick, Agnes Gorman (Mrs. John F. Kane) and Alice Crilly who received a Certificate of Music.
Public School
Supt. Marlin who came in 1910 and C.F. Stutzman who came as principal the same year were the boys and girls basketball coaches. By 1916 C.F. Stutzman was superintendent. Danbury had some excellent girls basketball teams during 1913-1917. Games were still played on the outside dirt court. Danbury had a championship team 1914-1915. That meant they won all games they had played.
1915 Danbury Review said - ÒA team composed of Inez McCleerey, Valderine Nicholls, Marguerite Hayden, Grace Wienand, Dorothy Keitges, and Bessie Braig were champions; they played 12 games before weather shut them out, and they won every one of the games.Ó Hilda and Hazel Seavy and Ruby Jones were the substitutes. Their first game was played on September 12 and the last game on Decemer 5, 1915. They beat Anthon 39 to 2, Oto 22 to 3, Oto 18 to 16, Odebolt 40 to 7, Smithland 36 to 6, Odebolt 21 to 18, Castana 43 to 2, Smithland 19 to 13, Castana 37 to 2, Battle Creek 17 to 7, Battle Creek 21 to 5, and Anthon 21 to 5.
The Danbury girlÕs team in 1915-1916 were Esther Collins, Bernadine Johnson, Inez McCleerey, Dorothy Lippold, Nina Kinney and Ethel Herrington.
The boyÕs team for the year 1915-1916 Wilfred Powell, Carl Le Duc, James Lee, Manley Durst, Darrell McCleerey and Udo Tangeman.
Smokey Johnson who was a referee and a sport enthusiast helped these teams and often refereed. Pupils before every game were given a talk on good sportsmanship and one should be able to lose as well as win. All practicing was done outside of school hours.
Danbury Schools 1912-1920
St. Mary's Church and School
There were changes, too, at St. MaryÕs during years 1912 to 1920. Rev. A.J. Schaefer who had been at Danbury since 1903 was given a new assignment at Mt. Carmel, and a farewell was given for him on January 25, 1917. Fr. H.J. Schleyer was sent to take his place.
There were some changes made within the church and at the school at this time. World War I was being fought, and many were very anti-German. The German people had conversed in German in their homes and over the telephone, but due to resentment of others this custom changed. Someone broke into the schools and burned the German textbooks at both St. MaryÕs and the Public School, as German was taught in the public school also up to this time. The teaching of German in the school, and the German sermons in the church were discontinued also.
World War I
The United States entered World War I on April 14, 1917. Persons of German and Irish nationalities again came to odds in Danbury. Germans could not speak their feelings or they were criticized severely. A few that did speak out were labeled as unpatriotic. Some were even called slackers, and their building and mailboxes were daubed with yellow paint. The Germans detested this war as many had to send their sons to Germany where they would have to fight their blood brothers and cousins. Nearly every family had a son that had to go to war. Four of Wm. and Adelaide Stamper's sons served, four of the Salisbury boys, and Mrs. Cora Brady had only two sons, but both had to serve. These were 100% families.
The Red Cross was very active in Danbury. Women met often and made bandages and sheets. They also knit sweaters, mittens, wristlets, stockings, etc for the boys overseas. The Red Cross once held an auction on Main Street. A variety of items were donated. A terrier puppy was sold over and over again and finally sold to John Jacobsen. Another item donated including a goose and a gander. The goose laid an egg overnight. The day of the sale the egg was sold time after time, and that one egg raised a large sum of money. The sale was a big success.
The men who served in this war were:
Wm. Stamper - 1st lieut.
Peter Meier
Bernard Collins
Clark Stamper
Lyle Canty
Clifford Richards
Rolla Stamper
Ray Crilly
Fred Reicks
Archie C. Stamper
Harold Kinney
Paul Harrigan
Roy Salisbury
Clyde Reilly
Paul Berger
Everett Salisbury
Patrick Collins
Ed Kennaley
Clarence Salisbury
Louis Richards
Patsy Conway
Ray Salisbury
Frank Craig
Timothy Fitzpatrick
Mark Brady
Broder Jacobsen
Fay Hannon
Harold Brady
Thomas Fitzpatrick
Andy Palmer
Louis Ahlwardt
Jim Larsen
Harmon Kennedy
Albert Boyer
Waldo Keitges
Harold Tangeman
Wm. Bollig
George Kennedy
Wilfred Powell
John Boyle
Jay Smith
Clifford Waddell
Charley Crilly
Leo Keleher
Charley Cord
Renwick Dobbs
Jake Kueny
Henry Reimer
Dan Welte
John McCabe
Walter Klemp
Gerheart Reicks
Lyle Powell
Joe Newell
James McGuire
Jamie Lee
Wm. Prell
John Kane
Manley Durst
Mike Murphy
Otto Zentz
Ed Mohrhauser
Wm. Ludwig
Ed Cathcart
Harold Idding
Fred Treiber
Mike Driscoll
Richard Colbert
Martin Drenkhahn
Mattie Uehle
Rowley Williams
George Parker
E.R. Jones
George Murphy
Francis McGarrity
Albert Rosauer
Woody Cloud
Arnold McCleerey
Udo Tangeman
Martin Moran
Walter Elskamp
Dewey Powell
John Weiling
Joseph Meier
Dale Waddell
Carl Le Duc
Matt Meier
Ed McQuillen
Tom Smith
Emil Carlson - gold star
Frank Quigley
George Goyke
Jens Saxon - gold star
John Pry
John Ortner
Harry Otto - gold star
Clarence Newell
Royce Osborn
Delbert Penny - gold star
Paul Frentress
Frank Meier
Chas. E. Neustrom - gold star
Charley Cloud
Horace Canty
John P. McNiff - gold star
Timothy McAleer
Leo Matt
Louis Treiber
Frank Kinney
Robert Davis
Wilfred McBride
Harry Smith
Otto Good - 2nd lieut.
John Santee
Wier Murphy - Capt.
Darrell McCleerey
Guy B. Nixon - Sgt.
Stanley Meisenhelder
Wm. P. Crilly - 2nd Lieut.
(Emil Carlsen was the first favorite son to lose his life.)
After 19 months of involvement in World War I, an armistice was finally signed on November. 11, 1918. The good news of the ending of the war was put out on the country telephone lines. Farmers came to town, and soon large crowds had congregated. A dummy and effigy of the Kaiser was drug through the streets, then hung and finally burned in a huge bonfire. It was a happy celebration. Three organizations which are still active today in Danbury, were organized at the time of this war afterwards: Friendly Neighbors, American Legion and Ladies Auxiliary.
Friendly Neighbor Club 1917
This club originated amongst a group of farm women who first worked at the Red Cross headquarters at Battle Creek, Iowa. Mrs. Chris Smith, Mrs. Harry Rowe, Etta (Mrs. John Scott) and Mrs. Jim (Lena) Scott who all lived east of Danbury went to Battle Creek each week and sewed sheets, bandages, etc. for the boys in the service. They also knitted and sewed in their own homes. After the war was over they continued to meet every other week in one of the membersÕ homes and sew for the hostess. Soon more women in their neighborhood were asked to join the club. The charter members of this club in 1918 were Mrs. Al Reissen, Mrs. Wm. Lacey, Mrs. Carl Johnson, Mrs. Geo. Hostetler, Mrs. Chas. Beauman, Mrs. Earl Drake, Mrs. Lester Sisko, Mrs. Bert Petit, Eva Lacey, Rebecca Boles, Misses Alvina and Anna Dientz, Alvena Cohert, Clara Owens, and Mamie Klein. In 1968 two of the charter members, Etta Scott (77) and Lena Scott (81), were still active. The club celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1968. The officers of the club in 1968 were Mrs. Anna Steinbach, president; Christina Peters, vice president; and Mrs. Etta Scott, secretary.
Improvements in the Town 1916-1920
Light and Power - Not too much advancement had been made with electricity in the town since 1908 when the plant exploded. While Maurice Colbert was mayor he and the councilmen decided something had to be done about this situation. In 1916 the Durst brothers, Mark and Godfrey decided to take over producing electricity for the town. The Mill was no longer a good source of income, and since the dam was still intact, they figured it could produce the power for the plant. In case of flooding or high water they could resort to engine power. More homes and the business places were wired for electricity at this time in Danbury, and wires were extended from Danbury to the mill site. This proved quite successful. The lights sometimes fluctuated in brightness, and all lights went out in the town at midnight. When the engine was used for power (steam engine) someone remained on duty until midnight to fire the engine so as to produce the energy.
The first street lights were placed on the intersections of Main Street soon after the town had lights. The lights were suspended high in the air on a wire which ran from a high pole on one side of the street to a pole on the opposite side of the street. The light was an extremely large bulb protected by a heavy metal shade.
To exchange a bulb, the light was lowered by a rope and pulley which was attached to one of the light poles. These lights were used until the town was paved, 1928.
Sewers - The first sewers were laid in the town in 1917. Up to this time many had private cess pools which occasionally had to be pumped, and the sewage was hauled to the river. Sewage lines were laid around town in 1917, but it was not compulsory for persons to hook onto the lines. All business places were hooked up at this time and some residences. These lines were extended and improved in 1928 when the town was paved.
Influenza Strikes 1918-1920
A dread disease, influenza, struck for the first time during World War I year 1918. It was new, and nothing was known of this disease. Many Iowa soldiers stationed at Camp Dodge in Fort Dodge, Iowa, became ill. The disease was very contagious, and it spread quickly. The danger was when the patient took pneumonia. Whisky and asofoeida (a very smelly substance some wore on a string placed about the neck) were the only preventives. There was a degree of hope for those getting the disease in a lighter form. They usually recovered. Some died just 3 days after taking the disease.
Funeral services were not allowed in churches. The funeral procession went directly from home to the cemetery, and when Delbert Penny, a soldier died, they took him from the train to the cemetery. The whole town and neighboring towns were quarantined.
A serum was perfected by a scientist, but they did not expect it to be perfect. They hoped it would control the disease. Hundreds gathered at Crilly's store and other places and were inoculated. This vaccination proved very effective, and the influenza was controlled.
Several young parents died of the flu: Julia Rosauer (Mrs. Ben Meier), Maurice Colbert, A. Delbert Penny, P.G. Lenz, Dr. W.L. Creswell, and a former teacher, Maggie Morgan (Mrs. Dan Collins) who died on March 20, 1919.
Danbury Loses Its Second Mayor
Maurice Colbert Dies on November 26, 1918
Maurice Colbert was born in Sheffield, IL on February 14, 1886. He came to Danbury with his parents, John and Hannah Colbert when he was three weeks old. His parents bought railroad land in 1886, and they farmed. Hannah Colbert died soon after the family came to Danbury and left besides her husband two small sons, Maurice and Richard. An Aunt, Julia Wilson, came to live with the family, and she raised the two boys. When the boys were old enough to receive their religious instructions, the family moved to Danbury so the boys could attend school at St. PatrickÕs Academy.
Maurice Colbert married Lucy Desmond, a school teacher in Ida County on July 2, 1914. He bought an implement business from George Braig in 1914. He was a successful businessman.
Maurice became ill in November 1918 of influenza which later turned into pneumonia. He was ill for 11 days when he passed away. Due to the quarantine, there was no public funeral. His remains were taken directly from his home to the cemetery. Six councilmen acted as pall-bearers, and brother members of the Foresters, a lodge to which he belonged, acted as an escort. Maurice and Lucy had two sons Jack and Desmond, when Maurice died. A daughter, Mauriceen, was born a short time after the fatherÕs death. Maurice died when 32 years, 9 months, and 12 days old.
An election was held soon after MauriceÕs death and Patrick H. Rush was elected as Mayor to finish the term to 1920.
Automobiles
Many were now buying cars. There were several car dealers in the town. An automobile then was more for pleasure. One could use it only in summer months. If caught in a rain storm with them you were in trouble. Many had no tops, and the women carried umbrellas to protect them from the sun or rain. The car was put up on blocks in the fall, the radiator was drained, and they were covered to keep them clean. The first cars had red lanterns for lights, and they had to be lit with a match if out in the dark. There was a horse and motor vehicle ordinance written on September 2, 1919, which governed the lights on automobiles. Cars were to stop when approaching a team. The horses feared the autos, and there were many runaways. No vehicle was to exceed 20 miles an hour in the suburbs and 15 miles in the business district.
Cars were at first parked crosswise in the middle of the street. A sign warned drivers to Òkeep to the right.Ó After the town was paved, 1928, cars were parked as we do today. Frank Palmer, the marshal, made arrests quite often when the automobile came into its own.
These first cars had hard rubber tires, and they did not ride comfortably. Whenever one bought a new car the seller would tell them to take it out and try it. Everyone went to the highest hill around, Devils Den Hill, to see if the car could pull the hill. The hills were then much steeper than they are today. The first trucks, too, were very small and had the hard rubber tires. A capacity load was two cows.
The first truck drivers suffered extreme hardships, because the roads were all dirt roads. Names of some of the first cars were Star, Rambler, Studebaker, Overland, Buick, Dodge, Oldsmobile, Model T. Ford, (cost $300 had to be cranked, magneto lights, and some had fold-down windshields)
Methodist Ministers 1911-1919
Rev. Exra Cathcart was pastor from 1911 to 1913. Rev. J.J. Davies 1913-1916, Rev. John Crombie 1916-1917, Rev. John Harvey Walker 1917-1919, and Rev. Frederick G. Granthum 1919-1922.
Township Clerk
Robert Driscoll was Township Clerk from 1913 to 1929.
Superintendent of Schools
Supt. Moore came to Danbury 1919 when Mr. Stutzman left.
New Organizations
THE AMERICAN LEGION 1920: Soon after the end of World War I the Danbury American Legion Post was organized, the fall of 1920. The ten charter members were Charley Crilly, Frank Craig, E.R. Jones, Rollie Williams, Frank Kinney, Dick Smith, Horace Canty, R.C. Colbert, A.J. Reidmiller and Wilfred McBride. The Post was called Carlson Post in honor of Emil Carlson, first soldier to fall in World War I from Danbury. The organization went by that name until the end of World War II. Marvin Frum was the first man from Danbury to lose his life in World War II, so the name of the organization was changed to Carlson-Frum Post. Charley Crilly was elected the first Post commander, and during his administration the Post was very active.
During year 1923 to 1924 there were 50 members enrolled. This Post sponsored various forms of entertainment to raise money. The 1923 bank records revealed they had earned $2,121.16. Out of this sum the Post had purchased and presented to the community a flag pole and a memorial plaque bearing the names of every service man of the community who served in World War I. The pole and plaque were first placed on the intersection of Main and Second Streets, but when the legionnaires purchased the Old Opera House in 1954 the pole and plaque were moved to the new American Legion Building. This organization is still active.
WOMENÕS AUXILIARY 1920: The auxiliary was organized after World War I, 1920, but it soon became inactive and lost its charter. Mrs. Wilfred McBride and Mrs. Frank Craig were instrumental in getting this organization going again in 1932. Any woman having a son, brother or husband involved in any of the wars could belong to this organization. Members pay annual dues which are sent to the county or district headquarters, and the money is used for the upkeep of veteran organizations, hospitals, etc. Poppies are made by veterans in soldier hospitals, and the Auxiliary organizations buy the poppies and resell them to the public on Memorial Day. The money raised from the sale of poppies then is given to the families of disabled veterans. Money raised is spent in different ways.
The Danbury members of WomenÕs Auxiliary decorate every veteranÕs grave regardless of how he lost his life on Memorial Day. They also decorate the graves of deceased Auxiliary members. In 1966 they made white crosses for 70 soldiersÕ graves and decorated 26 former Auxiliary members' graves.
The women often work as Blue Ladies at the Cherokee Mental Hospital. Social functions are sponsored frequently in the town to raise money. In 1966 the Auxiliary had 59 active members.
Carpenters in Danbury
There have been many of the carpenter occupation in the town of Danbury through the first 100 years. Dan Thomas was the first carpenter and mason. Samuel Griffith was carpenter and brick maker, Jacob Peters was contractor and builder, and J.F.A. Ahlwardt built many of the barns and outside buildings south of Danbury. R.L. Canty, Thomas Virtue, F.I. Clement, John F. Mohr, John W. Kinney, and Pierre Keitges were contractors and builders. Frank Morrissey, Kris Kupke, Frank Robart, Alvy Stanton building mover, Burr Towers, Eugene McGarrity, Lyle Canty, James Hardman, James Morrisey, John Young, Joe Granter contractor and builder, John Fuchs mason with Frank (Kelly) Mcgarrity tender, Leonard Reimer and sons Earl and Richard contractor and builders, Murral Burton, Carl and Louis Schable, LeRoy Krayenhagen, Tim Buckley and others.
Farmers Union Organization 1919
The first meeting of the Farmers Union was held in a country school house, year 1919. A fee of $3.00 was charged for membership. When organized, it was called Farmers Union Oil Ass'n. The organization proposed to buy oil, flour, salt and other staples in railroad car lots at less cost than they would have t pay otherwise. The farmers picked up their products at the car on track. The charter members were Charley Schrunk, President; Walter Otto, Secretary and Treasurer; and Board of Directors Joseph Uhl, Isadore Brenner, Gus Mohr, and Gene Putnam. The organization was a branch of the Des Moines Chapter when first organized, but the members were dissatisfied with this arrangement as the Des Moines Chapter took all of their earnings instead of letting the earnings in the association. They then merged with the Kansas City Cooperative Consumers Ass'n., and it was then the name "Coop" was chosen.
Yearly picnics were held when the Farmers Union was first organized. They were held at the Groves farm or Cameron Grove (Herb Schrunk farm southwest of Danbury). The first one was held on August 19, 1919. The program commenced at 10:00 a.m. with the singing of American. Other events were:
Elimination tug of war between the teams of different locals. $5.00
Free-for-all race of 75 yards, 1st prize $1.00, 2nd prize 50¢.
Fat Man's Race of 50 yards, 1st place $1.00, 2nd place 50¢.
Free-for-all women's race 40 yards, 1st place $1.20, 2nd place 75¢, money donated by Mapleton Trust Bank.
Boys' race under 15 of 60 yards, 1st place $1.00, 2nd place 50¢.
Fat Women's Race of 30 yards, 1st place $2.00, 2nd place $1.00
Best cake, $2.50
Pie eating contest, prize $2.00.
Hammer throwing contest, Prize $1.00 donated by Danbury State Bank.
Best loaf of bread, 1st place 2 year subscription of Mapleton Press, 2nd prize 1 1/2 year subscription of Mapleton Press, 3rd prize 1 year subscription of Mapleton Press.
Broad Jump, 1st place $1.00, 2nd place 50¢.
High Jump, 1st place $1.00, 2nd place 50¢.
High Kicking Contest, 1st place $1.25, 2nd place 75¢ donated by Mapleton First State.
Sack or Hobble Race, 1st place $1.00, 2nd place 50¢.
Egg or potato race, $1.00 and 50¢.
Baseball throwing contest, 1st place $1.25, 2nd place 75¢.
Grand prize: Party winning most prizes will be given free round trip to Iowa State Fair from either Danbury or Mapleton. Donated by Danbury Trust and Savings Bank.
An address will be given by O.E. Wilson of Des Moines at 1:00 p.m.
Bring your filled baskets and meet your friends. Enjoy the pleasures of the day.
Charley F. Schrunk, President
Some years carnivals sat up for Coop picnics, they had bowery dances, pot luck dinners, etc. In 1965 the U.S. Coop had a 750,000 membership. A feed store and gas station was built in Danbury in 1956 with earnings the Coop had earned, but it had to operate at a loss, so they sold the building to Barry's.
Other favorite picnic grounds of the early citizens were Spauldings Grove and Dry Run.
Farm Bureau 1918 in Woodbury County
The Farm Bureau organized, too, about 1918. From the first, their interests were more the young. The young boys and girls formed clubs. The boys were trained how to become good feeders of livestock, the care of livestock, etc., and the girls how to be good housekeepers and cooks. They competed in these projects at the fairs. The Farm Bureau celebrated its 50th anniversary in Woodbury County in 1968.
Knights of Columbus
The first members in Danbury by April 29, 1915, were Fr. Meagher, William O'Conner, Tom Sexton, P.A. McGlaughlin, J.W. O'Day, Henry Fitzpatrick, Fred Elskamp, Joe Kane, Richard Colbert, M.E. Rush, Thomas McGuire, and Will Harrigan. Became inactive in 1940.
Main Street,
Danbury, Iowa, 1915
Mayor M.W. Colbert
Banks
Danbury State Bank, John Jacobsen, Cashier; Lewis Larsen, Asst. Cashier
Trust and Savings, William Berger, Cashier; Frank Berger, Assistant Cashier.
Druggists
Danbury Drug Co., William Schuyler
O'Day Bros., James and John O'Day
Creameries
Joseph Eghrig
M.J. Frum
Tie Barn
L.W. Pierce and son Louis
Hotels
Collins Hotel, John Collins, Proprietor
Elevators
Reimer Brothers Elevator, Tony, Peter and Joe
Mike Burke Elevator
Durst Brothers Mill and Elevator, Mark and Godfrey Durst, Jr.
Garages
Driscoll Bros. (Chevrolet), Charley and Ed Driscoll
Barry Brothers (Ford), Pat and Mike Barry
Albert Kueny, Cars and machinery (sold to Antone Reimer)
Lumberyards
Farmers Lumber Co., J.W. Kinney, mgr.
Maple Valley Lumberyard, P.C. Keitges, Mgr.
Hardwares
Fitzpatrick Brothers, Henry and Patrick Fitzpatrick
George Braig Hardware sold to Maurice Colbert 1914 (Maxwell), Implements
Harness Shop
Walter and Fred Elskamp
Blacksmith Shops
J.M. Boyer
Mike Rush
Charley Kemp
General Stores
George J. Braig
John H. Crilly
Jones and Schrepher
Confectionery
Dick Colbert, Groceries and ice cream parlor
City Bakery
John Derksen
Veterinarian
Dr. G.H. Folkins
Men's Clothing Store
W.A. Acton, tailor-made suits
Cafes
Maggie Collins, rooming and boarding house
Peoples Cafe, Matt Uehle
Square Deal Cafe
Kennedys Cafe
Meat Market
H.N. Crippen
Main Street, Danbury, Iowa, 1915
Livery Barn
Henry Meier, Mgr.
Wallpapering and Painting
George Pullis
Shoe Repair
Irving Keller
Newspaper
Danbury Review, C.E. Johnson, Editor
Doctors
G.W. Murphy
Dr. W.L. Creswell
J.J. Murphy
Hal Richards, Dentist
Depot Agent
H.D. Graham
Insurance Agents
M.D. Cord
Berger brothers
Attorney
Sam Page
Watkins
Henry L. Walter, salesman
Postmaster
Joseph Wienand until March, then Earl Patten
St. Patrick's Parish
Rev. Timothy Meagher
St. Mary's
Rev. E.L. Schleyer
Supt. Danbury Public
Carl F. Stutzman
Archie Herrington
Builder who had a group of men working for him. Joe Granter came and worked with Archie until 1916. Archie then left Danbury, and Granter took over the men.
Mason
John Fuchs, and his tender was Frank McGarrity.
Main Street, Danbury, Iowa, 1919
Mayor
Maurice Colbert 1916-1920. Maurice died before the expiration of his term of office. P.H. Rush finished the term as mayor.
Banks
Danbury State Bank
John Jacobsen, Cashier
Lewis Larsen, Asst. Cashier
Danbury Trust & Savings Bank
Louis Derr, Cashier
Later William and Frank Berger
General Merchandise Stores
Crilly Store, J.H. Crilly
Farmers Cooperative Store, William Boeshe, Manager
Karl Paulsen Store
Meat Markets
Henry Crippen sold his meat market to Dick Colbert 1919
Druggists
Schuyler's Reliable Drug Store, W.E. Schuyler
O'Day Brothers, Jim and John or Bucky O'Day
Men's Clothing
W.A. Acton, Hart, Schaffner, and Marx Clothing
Jewelry
S.B. Lee
Cafe
Art Tatman
Lumber Yards
Danbury Lumber Co., J.W. Kinney
Maple Valley, P.C. Keitges
Hardwares
Matt's Hardware, Andy and Leo Matt, McCarl , undertaker
Henry Fitzpatrick Hardware (dissolved partnership with P.C. Fitzpatrick in 1919). Henry Fitzpatrick, undertaker.
Creameries
Joseph Ehrig
M.J. Frum
Livery
W.H. Jones
Elevators
Antone Reimer Elevator
Burke Elevator, Michael Burke
Garages
Barry Brothers (broke up their partnership in 1928)
Reimer Brothers, Pete and Joe Reimer bought from Kueny brothers
J.M. Boyer
Charley Driscoll
Danbury Review
Clarence "Smokey" Johnson, opera house manager
Blacksmith
Dave Cloud
Hotel
Collins Hotel, Mrs. Collins, proprietor
Veterinarian
G.A. "Doc" Folkins
A.A. Smith
Confectionery
Mac's Place, P.A. McGlaughlin
Barry Implement
Bart Barry took over Maurice Colbert's implement business in 1919
Durst Brothers
Mill was discontinued. Durst brothers now operating a power plant and furnished electricity for the town of Danbury.
Millinery Shop
Mrs. Charley Frentress
Bakery
Dirksen Bakery, Mrs. Anna Dirksen, proprietor
Shoe Repair
A.E. Keller
Photography Studio
C.W. Parker, Mapleton
Dray, Baggage and Express
Ed A. Tangeman
Postmaster
Earl Patten
Doctors
Dr. G.W. Murphy
Dr. John Happe
Dentist
Hal Richards
Barbers
Frank Neustrom
Jack Evans
John Eghrig
Painting and Paper Hanging
Arthur Powell
Harness and Shoe Repair
George Elskamp bought from Fred and Walter Elskamp
Tie Barn
Luther and Louis Pierce
Billiard Hall
F.B. Collins
Sold Gas
All garages sold gas. No filling stations until 1923.
Auctioneers
Joe Stapleton and Aduddel and Johns from Battle Creek
Seth Smith of Mapleton
Danbury Telephone Exchange
Chester Watkins, telephone administrator
Gas Man
Jay Edwards
Dr. Conn
Dentist came from Battle Creek and had a room at Collins Hotel for his office. Patients came to the hotel. Also did surgery.
Marshal and Pump Man
Frank Palmer
Mason
John Fuchs
Population in 1920
677
CHAPTER XII
Danbury Adopts Slogan "Out of the Mud" 1928
Mayor
P.H. Rush 1920-1922
A.J. Reidmiller 1922-1924
P.H. Rush 1924-1930
Council
Henry Fitzpatrick
Dave Rossbach
Godfrey Durst, Jr.
J.C. Rhode
Peter Matt
Marshal and Pump Man
James McGarr
During the years 1920 to 1930 the town did much to improve its image. It was improved considerable when a new road to Mapleton was built in 1926-27 and finally gravelled in 1928, when the town was paved in 1928, and when the new public school was built in 1929. Both St. Patrick's Academy and the public school were excellent schools by 1922. The schools were the center of interest for all during this period. They afforded much of the entertainment with the organizations of bands, orchestras, glee clubs, declamatory contests, and, of course, both schools had some excellent basketball teams. Two of the best music directors our schools have ever had were at Danbury during these years, Sr. Paul at St. Patrick's Academy, and Paul Stevens at Danbury Public.
Danbury Public School
Mr. Moore had come to Danbury as superintendent in 1919, but there were school administration problems during his stay. Students became unruly which culminated with the expelling of four juniors for tieing the bell in the belfry of the school so it could not toll. This upset the parents, so the school board asked Mr. Moore to resign. Miss Esther Petty, who was the principal, was asked to fill out the year, but she, too, had her problems and could not control the students. They needed a man with strong convictions, one who could keep order. Professor Trezona followed Miss Petty, and he put the house back in order. Fred Runkle came the fall of 1922 and was here until 1927.
Supt. Runkle had good discipline in the school, and he was liked by everyone. Mr. Runkle was one of the superintendents in the Maple Valley that organized the Maple Valley Tournament. He believed in athletics in the school and in good sportsmanship amongst players. He often gave speeches to the high school students on good sportsmanship. Mr. Runkle organized a "D" Club. Felt D's in the school colors of maroon and black were given to pupils participating in boys and girls basketball, music and dramatics. Danbury participated in track for the first time while he was here, about 1923. In the 1920s, basketball games were held in the Opera House, and there were some good teams during the period of 1920-1930.
The boys playing on the 1925-26 team were Charley Jensen (captain), Paul Lamphear, Ernest Towers, Lloyd Hanlon, Glen Tangeman, and Charley Rush. Substitutes were Cyril Keitges, Gene Volkman, and John Price. Vernon Heacock, principal, was the coach. This team was on its way to winning the sectional tournament, having defeated Smithland, Soldier, and Battle Creek, but they were defeated in the finals by the small town of Pisgah.
Supt. Runkle coached the girls team composed of Lelah Otto, Wilma McCleerey, Alvira Schrank, Beatrice Sexton, Clarice Nicholaisen, Phyllis Smith, Maxine McCleerey, and Lola Otto.
Mr. Runkle also wanted a good music department. Mable Gibson, a Danbury girl and a talented musician, was hired to teach music. Besides teaching singing to all the grades and high school, she had a music appreciation course and organized an orchestra. In Music Appreciation the students studied operas and classical music. She taught this through the playing of phonograph records. The small orchestra she organized had a piano, 3 violins, a banjo, a guitar, and a saxophone. Many of the students in high school became intrigued with the guitar and bought guitars. They brought them to school and practiced playing songs together out on the school playground during the noon hour. It was fun, and the music was pretty. This interest in the guitars prompted Miss Gibson to organize a stringed orchestra which had 11 guitars in all, two along with a violin playing the tune and the rest accompanying or strumming. This orchestra played for several school functions and was well received.
Paul Stevens came as a music director in 1923. He made the whole town music conscious and was very enthusiastic. His motto was "A symphony orchestra for Danbury by school year 1925-26." He said if the parents and pupils would cooperate with him, his dream of having a symphony would be realized. He immediately obtained instruments and started teaching the high school students how to read music and gave music lessons to someone whenever he could find a little time, as he also taught history. He soon had an orchestra of 20 pieces. He remained in Danbury through the summers and gave lessons and had rehearsals. In the fall of 1924 he started organizing a band. He then taught students to play the band instruments. He also had boys and girls glee clubs and a mixed chorus. In 1926 a music festival, possibly the first, was held at Danbury. There were 12 competing clubs from Aurelia, Battle Creek, Bronson, Glidden, Holstein, Manilla, Mapleton, Sergeant Bluff, Schleswig, Scranton, Sloan, and Danbury. Scranton had to come the longest distance, 82 miles. That was a long way to travel in 1924. The roads were mostly gravel and were soft, and it took the Glidden group four hours to make the trip. The students who came these long distances would have to stay in Danbury overnight. The high school pupils worked a week getting things in readiness. The floors of the old school were all scrubbed, windows washed inside and outside, and one room was fitted up as a reception room. Here curtains were placed on the windows and a rug was laid. Arrangements were made for the pupils staying overnight. They stayed at homes about the town. The music programs would have to be given in four sessions, and the Class C Divisional Music Contest would be held in the Opera House. More seating had to be built at the Opera House, and some improvements were made on the stage. The first two programs were at 2:30 and 9:00 p.m. on Friday, and the third and fourth sessions were held at the same time on Saturday.
Danbury Public School
Danbury won some awards in this contest. Four towns competed in Boys Glee Club, and Mapleton won first and Danbury second. Nine competed in Girls Glee Club, and Danbury placed first and Aurelia second. There were two entries in band, Holstein and Sergeant Bluff. There were seven entries in the orchestra division. Although Danbury had the largest orchestra, 36 members, they won second and Mapleton first. Mr. Stevens was very proud of his orchestra and was a little disappointed in the judges' decision. This group performed at many school functions. Danbury also took first in Mixed Chorus. The town fathers were very proud of their children, and the town boosters thought the students had earned a trip to the state contest being held at Iowa City May 7th and 8th, 1926. Many volunteered to take a load of students to Iowa City. A fleet of 10 cars made this trip, Al Crilly, J.C. Jacobsen, Joe Reimer (driver of Carl Brown's car), E.P. Jacobsen, Herman Peters, Mrs. W.E. Schuyler, Louis Otto, George Treiber, Stanley Smith (driver of Mark Durst car), and Lawrence Weber. The mixed chorus won a first and a silver cup at this contest. The group returned home on a Sunday, and Mr., Runkle planned a side trip for the group, visiting the State Capitol in Des Moines, the college at Ames, and a few other interesting places. When the group returned to Danbury late Sunday night, Art Tatman, restaurant owner, had prepared a banquet for the high school students, teachers and drivers. Art Tatman had at many times during his lifetime played host to the young, showing his appreciation. Art Tatman married Minnie Mohr, and they had one son, John "Bud" Tatman.
Mr. Stevens also directed two minstrel shows at the opera house which were very well received. He wrote all the music for them as well and arranging it.
Mr. Runkle hired a coach, Mrs. Alderson from Alta, Iowa, to come to Danbury each year to teach high school pupils dramatics in three divisions, Oratorical, Dramatics and Humorous. Enough pupils took part in this that one night Oratorical and Dramatic readings were given, the second night Humorous readings were presented.
More building for Danbury Public: A home economics building was built on the southwest corner of the school lot in 1920. There were too many pupils and not enough room, so they decided to build another building for 7th and 8th grades. This 7th and 8th grade building was built behind the school house in 1922.
Mr. Runkle left Danbury May, 1926. Immerzeel came as superintendent during the year 1926-27. Vernon Heacock was hired as basketball coach and principal. Mr. Heacock became superintendent in September 1927 and was here until 1929-30. Mr. Heacock wanted a new school, and especially a new gymnasium, as his teams had been playing in the Opera House, and it was just too small. Some teams who already had new gymnasiums called it a "cracker box." Crowds coming to games were larger now, and there just wasn't any seating space in the Opera House. There were several locations considered as to where to build a new school house, and some heated arguments. They finally decided on the present location, and they decided to build a two-story brick building. They hired architect Dougher to design the building which was to cost $475,000. The school board members at this time were President Wayne Keitges, A.J. Reidmiller, Hoy Lee, and Otto A. Schrank. Joe Granter was hired as contractor. The cornerstone was laid on October 10, 1929. Vernon Heacock left after the school was built, and Russell Anderson was hired as the new superintendent. Teachers that year were Principal Wayne Mentor; John C.B. Ballachey, coach; Edna Goheen, Music; Catherine Roberts, Domestic Science; and Grade Teachers Della Sullivan, Francis McCreary, Florence Cooper, and Jane Hickey.
Dedication of school, October 30, 1930, by The Danbury Review: "The dedicatory exercises of the new school building were held in the auditorium last evening before a small but appreciative audience. The program opened with two selections by the high school orchestra. President Wayne Keitges presided at the meeting and introduced the speakers. He told the history of the building of the school structure. The address of the evening was given by Honorable Dan Turner, contender for Governor of Iowa, and we wish every person in our little city could have heard this able speech. He spoke mainly on American citizenship, first speaking of responsibility of the teacher in the community in developing children according to their individual. Then he wondered if young people appreciated the sacrifices that were being made to the coming generat