Glimpses of Fulton

Shut Them Out

2011-08-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

October 30, 1885
Fulton Journal
There is a number of hoodlums in town who often disturb public entertainments by filthy language, whistling, stamping and making nuisances of themselves generally. They are too large to be spanked, not quite large enough to be arrested and don't know enough to behave themselves without an occasional kick. Monday night John Cossman, a loud mouth big enough to go to meeting barefooted and eat soup with a scoop shovel, and Pete Ryqan, another hoodlum, created a disturbance in the Opera House. They were ordered out and away from the building. They went away, returned in a few minutes and got into a row. They were ordered away and told not to come back. Ryan went away and stayed. Cossman came back and refused to leave. He was put in the lockup. There was a couple of bums in the cell and Cossman was left in the hallway. During the night someone handed him a wrench through the opening in the door and he got out. Tuesday afternoon he was taken before Justice Terwilliger who fined him three dollars. If the managers of the public halls would refuse admittance to these hoodlums no matter whether they presented money or a ticket at the door, it would keep them out and prevent these disturbances.

Tramps

2011-08-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

April 30, 1889
Fulton Journal
For several weeks tramps have had their rendezvous alongside the C.& N.W. track south of this city. The camp was about forty rods outside the city limits and the tramps knew it. They grew more bold and insolent each day. They were prowling around in Claus Bush's kitchen during the night time. They slept in John W. Munneke's barn and started a fire in his barn. They bought numerous kegs of beer and gallons of whisky and put themselves outside the same with great expedition. They became so bad that John W. Munneke came to town and swore out a warrant charging them with vagrancy. The city marshal organized a posse comitatus and aided by Deputy Sheriff Fay and Constables J.W. Farley and Hervey Smith went to the camp of the tramps and arrested seventeen of them. Four others were arrested in the city. They were tried before George Terwilliger, justice of the peace, and eighteen of them convicted. One was sentenced to pay a fine of $20 or be imprisoned in the county jail five days; six to pay a fine of $30 or be imprisoned thirty days; eleven to pay a fine of $50 or be imprisoned fifty days. C.W. Knapp conducted the prosecution in an able manner. George E. Duis, of Dixon, who is attending the college and will graduate in June, defended one the tramps, Frank Wilson, the one who received the lightest sentence. The tramps were taken to the county jail Tuesday. They were a bad crowd. There were half a dozen razors and more knives found concealed on their persons. Sheriff Keefer does not like such prisoners. He keeps the jail clean and free from vermin and this class of prisoners makes him and his assistants a great deal of extra work.

Close It Up

2011-08-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

April 14, 1893
Fulton Journal
The hotel owned and conducted by Mrs. Stanwood near the Junction depot in this city, has had a bad reputation for many months. Why the city authorities permitted it to continue to be a nuisance is an unanswered question. It is reported that for several weeks two "soiled doves" have been there, and that it was a very disorderly house. About 10 o'clock Sunday morning Marshal Rush was called there to quell a disturbance. He found nine young men there, mostly from Clinton and Lyons, none from this city. All were in different degrees of intoxication. The young men had been playfully demolishing the windows of the building and some of the furniture. A two-seated surrey and a single buggy had brought the party across the river. They were a well-dressed crowd of young men, and some of them have moved in the higher circles of society in Clinton and Lyons. The marshal arrested the nine men and lodged them in the calaboose. One man who was paralyzed drunk was not put in a cell, but stretched out on some straw. Soon after being left, he revived and got out, but the marshal again captured him and despite his resistance soon had him locked up again. During the day and evening nearly all of the men arrested paid a fine of $10 and costs and were allowed to depart. It would be quite proper for the city officials to close up the house in question, and would have been just as well to have salivated the young men arrested by imposing a fine several times as great.

Chapman Death

2011-03-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

Whiteside Sentinel: 10/21/1896

"Edward Chapman of Fulton was instantly killed at Davenport, Ia., last Saturday night. He drove to his sister's house that evening and started home about 7:30 o'clock. In some manner he fell out of his buggy, breaking his neck. His wife conducts a millinery store in Fulton. His remains were taken to that place Monday for interment."
(He was married to Mary Reagan, great aunt of Ronald Reagan. She later married Dr. Clendenen.)

Bicycles

2010-02-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
May 22, 1885

Many of the young men about town have purchased, or contemplate purchasing, a bicycle. A bicycle is a harmless, seductive looking creature, very large and complacent in front and very small and timid at the rear. It is built a great deal like a thorough-bred bulldog, and possesses the same remarkable staying qualities. In a fair contest it would be a toss-up as to which would come out first-best, a bicycle or a bulldog. A bicycle is a careless, don't care sort of a creature and is not at all worried when everything is upside down. A young man will caress it, and pat it on the neck, and curry it off, and call it pet names, and then get on it--and, in a few minutes later will wonder how in the world the big stone college happened to fall on him, and how long it will take to dig him out. When he comes to, and sees a crowd of young ladies coming down the street, he will lead the bicycle with one hand and patch his pants with the other and go home. Then he will sit down in the woodshed and sadly gaze at the bicycle, and get a twist in his neck trying to see whether the hole in his trousers is larger than the handmade patch which he improvised. When he finds that the hole is bigger than the patch this world will seem to him a dull and dreary illusion full of torn pantaloons, bucking bicycles and derisive maidens.

Reagan Ancestral Chart

2010-02-03T18:11:00.001-08:00

Fulton, Illinois
Ronald Reagan’s Ancestral Hometown

GREAT-GRANDPARENTS

Michael O’Regan Catherine Mulcahey
1829-1884 1829-1908
Married in London 1852: Immigrated in 1856
(5 children)
Thomas John William Margaret Mary
1852-1889 1854-1889 1858-1883 1856-1947 1867-1908
(37) (35) (25) (91) (41)
GRANDPARENTS

John Reagan Jennie Cusick
1854-1889 1856-1886
(35) (30)
(4 children)
Catherine William John “Jack” Anna
1879-1901 1880-1925 1883-1941 1885-1903
(22) (45) (58) (18)

PARENTS

“Jack” Reagan Nellie Wilson
1883-1941 1883-1962
(58) (79)
(2 children)
John Neil Ronald Wilson
1909-1996 1911-2004

Proper Education for Girls

2010-02-03T17:54:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
November 2, 1883

Give your daughters a thorough education. Teach them to cook and prepare the food of the household, Teach them to wash, to iron, to darn stockings to sew on buttons, to make dresses. Teach them to make bread, and that a good kitchen lessens the doctor's account. Teach them that he only lays up money whose expenses are less than his income, and that all grow poor who have to spend more than they receive. Teach them that a calico dress paid for fits better than a silken one unpaid for. Teach them that a healthy face displays greater luster than fifty comsumptive beauties. Teach them to purchase and to see that the account corresponds with the purchase. Teach them good common sense, self-trust, self-help and industry. Teach them that an honest mechanic in his working dress is a better object of esteem than a dozen haughty, finely dressed idlers. Teach them gardening and the pleasures of nature. Teach them, if you can afford it, music , painting, etc., but consider them as secondary objects only. Teach them that a walk is more salutary than a ride in a carriage. Teach them to reject with disdain all appearance, and to use only "yes" and "no" in good earnest. Teach them that happiness of matrimony depends neither on external appearance nor on wealth, but on the man's character.--Ex.

Fulton Opera House Rink

2010-02-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
May 9, 1883

The Opera House Company has so far completed the new building that an opening was held on Wednesday evening, which was a grand success. Nearly four hundred people were in attendance, and as many as one hundred and fifty persons buckled on the rollers, and there was room for all. Warner's cornet band enlivened the occasion with good music, and all went merry as the wedding bells. The building is 18x100 feet, with a truss roof which leaves the floor clear of posts or columns. The entrance is arranged with two pairs of doors opening outward and on either side are rooms for ticket office, skate room and cloak room, over which is a gallery with seating room for one hundred. The north end has two doors and between them is a stage 14x40 feet, which is the band stand, and is to be fitted with curtains and scenery for theatrical and other performances. The floor, which is the main consideration for roller skating, is of hard wood, substantially made and finished with sand paper, and is pronounced the best yet by travelers and experts. An easy slat seat is built on the east side for convenience of spectators and skaters. Much credit is due John Fritz the contractor, for the prompt and workmanlike manner in which the building was constructed. Several hundred chairs are to be purchased for seats during other entertainments. The Opera House Company is composed of J.W. Broadhead, A.D. Mitchell, Oscar Summers, O. Sprague, George Ward and J.C. Kennedy. The enterprise of these gentlemen in thus giving to our city, a place of permanent and healthful amusement is highly commendable. There is no finer, more graceful and invigorating sport than roller skating. Its popularity promises to be more permanent than even its devotees anticipated. It is an art which offers a great variety of attractions and possibilities for personal skill and enjoyment. Young ladies and gentlemen can meet for the pleasure found in a delightful and innocent exercise. Business and professional men will improve the opportunity for enjoyment, society and noble exercise from which they are so often debarred. The heated ball room and all questionable resorts for amusement will be deserted for the skating rink, where all can meet for a hearty diversion at a trifling cost. There may exist some maudlin sentimentality which is opposed to this amusement, but the larger and better class of our citizens will rejoice that a healthful attractive and unobjectionable form of recreation has now been introduced.

The Excursion

2010-02-03T09:07:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
June 27, 1884

The excursion on the Josephine to Rock Island Wednesday was a success. About one hundred and fifty were aboard. The barge Billy was taken as far as Port Byron, and was utilized for dancing and roller skating. The Walter family furnished excellent music. The weather was just the right temperature till ten o'clock in the evening, when it became a little chlly for some. At ten o'clock the lunch baskets were opened, their contents spread on the tables, and the picnic dinner enjoyed. The boat arrived at Rock Island at noon, and the party separated. Some went to Davenport, some to the arsenal on Rock Island and about sixty took the motor train to Black Hawk's Watch Tower. The Tower is about four miles from Rock Island. It is 250 feet above the level and to the southeast, south and southwest you can see for many miles. It is a splendid place to camp, rest and recuperate during the summer. The boat left Rock Island at 4:30 o'clock and did not reach Fulton till nearly one o'clock. Credit is due the managers of the excursion. Captain Conger, M.P. Fulton, clerk, as well as all the officers and crew did everything to make the trip pleasant.

Found Watery Graves

2009-12-12T17:47:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
April 5, 1892

THREE MEN DROWNED IN THE MISSISSIPPI MONDAY FORENOON BY THE SINKING OF A SKIFF--THE FOURTH OCCUPANT HAS A NARROW ESCAPE FROM THE SAME FATE
Monday morning four Hollanders, residents of this city and whose names are George Ottens, Lubbe Greede, Claus Logemeir and Henry Logemeir, crossed the river in a boat below Stony Point to Clinton for the purpose of obtaining employment in w.J. Young & Co's mills. The mills not starting up the men returned to their boat, a double-oared skiff in a leaking condition, and started to recross the river.
The waves were running pretty high and when about four or five hundred feet from the Illinois' shore the boat had taken in so much water that it sank so that the four men were thrown into the water. They made frantic efforts to clinb into the boat which would sink under them.
John Clark, a fisherman who lives on the river shore near there, took his boat and pulled to the place where the men were struggling in the water, but was able to save but one, Henry Logemeir, the youngest of the lot. The others had been chilled by the water and sank out of sight just before Clark got in reach of them. He tied a rope to one of Logemeir's arms and hastily rowed to the shore, where he was restored to consciousness.
Clark believed that all could have been saved had they placed their hands on the boat and tried to keep their heads above water instead of persisting in an attempt to get into the boat.
The rescued man came to Fulton and reported what had happened. A party consisting of William Eckert, Robert Hall, John Schnetz and Fred Dykema rigged a drag line and hooks and with two boats made an attempt to recover the bodies. It was very difficult to manage the boats and after finding the body of
George Ottens the search was abandoned.
Of the drowned men, Ottens was forty-five years old and leaves a wife and three children; Lubbe Greede's age was thirty-two years and leaves a wife and four children; Claus Logemier was single and his age was twenty-eight years. The first two men had worked at W.J. Young & Co's mills for two years, and had lived in this city for several years. Logemeir and his brother had been living in Michigan until two years ago, when they came to Fulton and started to work on a farm. They had decided to try to get a job in the mills.
The funeral of Ottens was held at the Christian Reform church this afternoon and Rev. H. Housinga conducted the services.

Astrologist

2009-12-12T17:32:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
Feb. 16, 1897

Madam Caldwell, the great English Astrologist, has arrived in Fulton from England and occupies rooms over Miss E. Hartman's millinery store, on Broadway street, and will remain here for a few days only. She can read your destiny to perfection; she can tell you what you are best adapted for, and when the planet of fortune will benefit you in speculation; and locates hidden treasures and shows you the likeness of your future partner; brings together those separated, and removes evil influences. If you have been disappointed in love through the effects of others can and be convinced of her wonderful power. Daily consultation, Sundays included, see sign on door. Ladies, fifty cents; Gentlemen, $1--Adv.

Highland Golf Club

2009-12-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
May 17, 1901
Organized by Fulton Devotees to Outdoor Athletic Sports and Exercise

The persons interested in the formation of a golf club to the number of about twenty met in the college building, Wednesday evening and completed the organization of the club.
The name selected is "Highland," and Rev. Cary F. Moore is the first president. Dr. G.W. Clendenen was elected vice president; Mrs. J.H. Lines, secretary; W.H. Mitchell, treasurer; also E.M. Clark, A.D. Fay and W.F. Murdoch as board of directors.
The club is to be exclusive, only members and invited guests will be allowed on the grounds while a game or practice is in progress. This is made necessary by the owner of the grounds who does not want to throw the field open to the public.
A supply of golf sticks, balls and other accessories will cost each individual from three to ten dollars for an outfit.
You are not in it unless you belong to the Highland golf club, and get onto the nomenclatures of this popular Scottish game.

Arrival of Emigrants

2009-12-12T17:17:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
April 5, 1901

Ben Norman of East Clinton, who went over to Holland last November, returned Wednesday afternoon over the "Q," accompanied by forty-three adults and about sixty children right from the Netherlands.
Two other families were detained in New York on account of sickness. Their friends here were notified in the afternoon of their expected arrival, and long before the train was due, upwards of two hundred or more had gathered at the depot to greet the little band of emigrants. An extra coach was attached to the Mendota passenger train, for their accommodation.
It is said by the railroad men that Conductor Dano is now brightening up a little in his knowledge of languages, especially the Holland. He wants to be able to converse with the next lot of emigrants from the old country that take his train. Even now he greets about every one he meets with the salutation in Dutch, "Hoe's alles?" and John's accent is so remarklably good, that some of the railroad boys question his statement that he is of French extraction.

Telephone Service

2009-12-12T17:13:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
September 10, 1897

C.B. Miller, superintendent of the Try-City Telephone Co., of Clinton, was in Fulton today interviewing the business men in regard to the telephone service on this side of the river. He is endeavoring to interest enough people here to take phones to warrant the company in running a cable across the river so it will be possible for each patron to have a separate line, instead of the system now in vogue whereby as high as four patrons are on the same line. He met with splendid success the short time he was here and the cable is nearly a sure thing. The company will also make a small change in the monthly rates if the cable comes. The rates to be adopted will be as follows: For business houses, single wire, $2.50 per month; where there are two telephones on the same line $2 per month; for residence, single wire, $1.50 per month; two telephones on same line, @1 per month. The change will be beneficial to all.

2009-12-12T17:12:00.000-08:00

LeRoy Allison Obituary

2009-11-07T15:17:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal, May 18, 1897

The JOURNAL of last Tuesday contained the sad announcement of the death of Leroy Allison, who after a prolonged and heroic struggle with the king of terrors, passed from this life at sunset May 11, 1897. Roy was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. D.N. Allison and was born in Fulton, July 18, 1875.
From early boyhood Roy was remarkable for his retiring manners, as well as for close application to his studies. At the age of sixteen he graduated with his class from the Fulton high school andd although urged to complete his education by a college course that would prepare him for a profession, he preferred to remain with his parents. Thus it waas that he became an assistant and a comrade, and later the business partner of his father. Together they planned and built the handsome double brick store building completed about three years ago. Roy had full charge of the business since, selecting and buying the stock, keeping the books and attending to the correspondence. Every leisure moment he devoted to study, taking up type-writing and stenography, and without the aid of instructors he became expert in the use of a type-writer and was a fair stenographer.
Although quiet and retiring he was observant and possessed rare judgment so that he early developed the ability to report local news for the press, and was for several years telegraphic correspondent for a Chicago daily, and served as weekly reporter for one or more county papers. Alas! he thought and worked too well and at too great a cost.
His industry and energy carried him beyond the strength of his constitution and his close application, before his friends realized his condition, brought on his fatal illness. But not until disease had made alarming progress, did he leave his place in the store. While confined to his home and no longer able to rise from his bed, fighting for existence with a heroism as marked as that of Napoleon's old guard who when called upon to surrender or die chose death, his thoughts were almost constantly returning to things connected with the store, with business, and his father's welfare.
Not until the day of his death did he lose hope of recovery, and then realizing his great weakness and growing weary of the struggle, he whispered to his father, "I will have to give up." Surrounded by those he held nearest and dearest he met death with courage and tranquil composure. Indeed, almost his last words were an assurance that he was not afraid to die. Then the pulseless hand fell from the grief stricken father's clasp, the head that could feel pain and weariness no more was laid tenderly back upon the pillow, and the eyes from which the light had gone out forever were reverently closed, and silence fell upon breaking hearts.
While his untimely end crushes the hearts and hopes of his devoted friends and comes to them almost as an infinite sorrow, yet there is some consolation for them. The dead do not suffer. They are beyond the jealousies, the selfishness, the burdens, the sufferings and the sorrows of this world.
While called upon to part with this loved one it may be comforting to recall the fact that all who knew and loved him here, one after another, shall follow him, even as piglrims passing over a dark river whose other bank is lost in a mist not penetrable to mortal vision. There on the other side may one and all meet to part again never. Yes, meet, but not as shadows in a shadowy land. Say rather as tired sleepers waking into a higher, nobler, grander existence, a change as from the darkness of night to the bright light of midday. And can we not believe that all that is wrong here will be made right there, and whatsoever is lacking here shall be added there?
"He hears not the moan of the night wind now,
Or the sighing of whose who weep.
The pallor of death is upon his brow
He sleeps an eternal sleep."

Louisa Cowles:Traveled to Fulton with Emma Hale Smith

2009-11-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

One of Fulton's Oldest Residents Called

Fulton Journal
July 13, 1897

Louisa Woodworth-Wilbur Cowles was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Austin Cowles and was born in Otsego county, New York, March 19, 1817, and died at the home of her grand daughter, Mrs. Martin H. McGrath, in this city, at 1:45 o'clock this morning, after an illness of nearly six weeks at the age of eighty years three months and twenty-three days. The immediate cause of her death was congestion of the lungs. The deceased was the daughter of a Methodist minister, and was one of a family of fourteen children, nearly all of whom have preceeded her to the beyond. She attended school in her native state and taught school when quite young. In 1836 the family moved to Courtland, Ohio, where the deceased met Wesley Knight, to whom she was married in 1838. To this marriage four children were born: Emma, who became Mrs. L.F. Puffer, and died in 1895; Mary, who married Daniel Hollinshead, of Ustick, and died in 1867; Don Carlos, who was a soldier in the civil war and died in St.Louis, in April, 1878, from injuries received in a railroad accident; and Wesley, who died in infancy. Soon after her marriage the family moved to southern Illinois and in 1847 came to this city, where the deceased has resided since. In 1850 Mr. Knight died of cholera while on his way to California for his health. She was afterward married to Benjamin Holmes, who died in Colorado in 1870. For many years she followed the calling of a nurse, and there are many in this city vicinity who can attest her patience and kindness in sickness. For the past seven years she has made her home with her grand daughter. Her death removes one of the oldest residents of Fulton. The funeral services will be held at the home of Mrs. McGrath at 2:30 o'clock p.m. Wednesday. Mrs. H.P. Harver, a Spiritualist minister of Maquoketa, will conduct the services, and burial will take place in Fulton cemetery. The Universalist church choir of Morrison will furnish the music.

Puffer: Found Dead

2009-07-12T11:11:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
October 6, 1896

Luther F. Puffer disappeared from his home in this city Monday morning September 28. He had been making his home with his daughter, Mrs. M. H. McGrath. He had been in poor health for some time and his family believed his mind was unbalanced when he failed to return home. A search was instituted for him but nothing could be learned of him. This morning W. W. McAllister, a baggageman, and W.E. Hullinger, an engineer on the Northwestern road, came over on the passenger and went hunting on the bottoms east of town. While walking along the Cattail creek Mr. McAllister discovered the body of a man partly under water and lying in the mud. Mr. McAllister called his friend to view the remains. They then came to town and reported what they had discovered.
J.N. Baird, coroner, was notified and came to town at 10 o'clock and at once impanelled a jury consisting of T.H. Smith, foreman, W.H. Mitchell, Dr.C.A.Griswold, H.L. Abbott, O. E. Finch and Wardell Stowell. The remains had been brought to town by J.M. Fay and kept at his office. The jury were taken there and were sworn in and then retired to hear the evidence of the witnessess. The two main witnesses were Mr. McAlister and Mr. Hullinger, who told of their experience of the morning, and after hearing the evidence the jury gave a verdict in accordance with the facts.
Luther F. Puffer was born in Leyden, New York, March 26, 1836. He enlisted in the army August 7, 1862, and was mustered out in 1865. He was married to Miss Emma Elvira Knight at Black Hawk, Colorado. They came to this city in 1869 and with the exception of two years, 1882-1884, which he put in at Davis City, Iowa, has resided her since. Mrs. Puffer died in 1894. The children of the marriage are Nettie E., now Mrs. Martin H. McGrath of this city, and Daisy, now Mrs. Clayton Snodgrass, of Iron Hill, Iowa. The funeral will be held at 10:30 o'clock a.m. Wednesday, services being conducted at the Fulton cemetery where the burial will be.

Puffer Missing

2009-07-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
October 2, 1896

Luther F. Puffer left the home of his daughter, Mrs. Martin H. McGrath about 8:30 o'clock Monday foremoon, and has not since been heard from. He is about six feet in height, with gray hair, dark brown eyes and closely trimmed iron gray beard, and wore black trousers and vest and brown coat. He also wore a pair of brown cloth shoes. He was sick when he left his home and from evidence we have since learned we are forced to believe that his mind is unbalanced. Anyone to whom he may apply for shelter will please notify us at once, as anyone not doing so will be held responsible for any change for the worse in his mental and physical condition. Information regarding his whereabouts since Monday forenoon will be greatfully received. Leave word at the Register office or at our home three blocks north of the High School building.
Martin H. McGrath
Nettie E. McGrath

Puffer

2009-07-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
November 2, 1894
(See Blogs 2007: Puffer Obit)

Stole the Child
In June of this year Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Johnston, of this city, separated. They had not lived happily for several months and soon after the separation, Mrs. Johnston applied for a divorce, the case being on the docket of the present term of the circuit court of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston had resided with Mrs. Johnston's parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.F. Puffer, and after the separation Mrs. Johnston continued to reside with parents, keeping house for her father, as her mother is blind, and doing such other work as she could get to support herself and child. In her application for divorce she asked for the custody of the child, a little boy two years old. Johnston had repeatedly threatened to take the child and leave his wife before they separated. After their separation he made no attempt to gain possession of the boy till Wednesday morning about 9 o'clock when accompanied by a confidant he drove near the house....Mrs. Puffer was alone, Mrs. Johnston having gone to a neighbor's for a few moments, and when the door was opened by Mrs. Puffer, in answer to the man's knock, he asked about having a carpet woven. Mrs. Puffer, thinking he was some resident of the city and being unable to see him, asked him if he would step into the house. The boy was standing near his grand-mother and the man stepped far enough into the house to get hold of him. He took the boy in his arms and ran to the buggy in which Johnston was seated and they drove rapidly away. The boy began to cry when taken from his grand-mother and Mrs. Puffer called a neighbor, George Goble, who ran after the carriage. Johnston turned and told Goble to go back or "he would"fix him." Goble turned back and came down town. The officers were notified and L.F. Puffer, accompanied by Frank Considine, city marshal, went to Clinton, where the horse and buggy were found in a livery stable. It was ascertained by the city marshal that Johnston had pawned a revolver with the livery man as security for the livery hire. The toll-man claims that but one man crossed the bridge, and the description given tallies with that of the man who took the child from the house. The location of Johnston and the child is not known and there seems to be no legal means of regaining possession of the child before the application for the divorce case is decided.

Lockhart School Picnic

2009-07-12T10:43:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
June 18, 1915

LARGE NUMBER OF PUPILS ON ROLL OF HONOR
The Lockhart school in Gardenplain closed last week Thursday with a picnic and a large crowd in attendance. After a fine dinner the people were entertained by a program given by the pupils of the school.
Twenty-five pupils were on the roll of honor for the year, and three others were absent or tardy only once. The teacher presented these scholars with a handsone pin with the name "Lockhart" engraved on it. To show that the district is well satisfied with Miss Church's work as teacher, the directors have engaged her for the next term at $90 a month.
Roll of Honor for 1914-1915
Arthur Workman, Maggie Ottens, Carl Jacobsen, Earl Schipper, Katie DeWeerdt,
Willie Ottens, Lutie Dornbush, Rena Damhoff, Henry Eissens, Gertrude Poole, Frankie Workman, Grace Poole, Katie Ottens, Harry Sterenberg, Johnnie DeWeerdt, Johnnie Dornbush, Johnnie Damhoff, Tena Holesinger, Joe Pesman, James Jacobsen, Tena Pesman, Effie Ottens, Jennie Poole, Johnnie Poole, Freddie Sterenberg.
Tardy once--Annie Temple, Jake Temple
Absent one day only--Otto Holesinger

Thomas Smith: 1st Dutchman in Fulton

2009-07-12T10:36:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal
February 25, 1896

Thomas Smith was assaulted and robbed at his home on Base street Monday evening. Two or three of Mr. Smith's friends had called on him during the evening the last one to leave was Carl Deelsnyder who left a few minutes after 8 o'clock. He had been gone but a few minutes when Mr. Smith heard a rap at the door and supposed it was Mr. Deelsnyder returning. When he opened the door he was confronted with three young men who forced their way into the room. When they first entered the room they began to jostle Mr. Smith around making all efforts possible to confuse him. This did not have the desired effect and they then bound his hands and feet and placed a gag in his mouth. One of the young men stood guard over Mr. Smith while the others ransacked the house. They did not find much of value and began to abuse Mr. Smith by striking him on the temples with the butt of a revolver cutting an ugly gash over his left eye and also striking him with their fists in his chest. After punishing him in that manner for a time and securing what money Mr. Smith had in the house, which was about $35 they left him. Mr. Smith finally worked loose the rope with which he was bound and went on the street to give the alarm the first man he met was Dr. L. Barber who returned to the house with him and remained until Garrett O'Connor night policeman was called. No trace was discoverd of the robbers Monday evening. Mr.Smith is rather sore from the bruises he received.

California Bound

2009-06-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journasl
June 24, 1892

Thursday Thomas and William Wardlough, of Muskegon, Michigan, passed through Fulton with their families which consisted of their wives and five children. They are on their way to Califoprnia and are making the trip overland. The ladies and children travel in a covered three seated carriage and the gentlemen have a large covered spring wagon. They carry a supply of all the latest improved utensils in the way of stoves, tents, guns, and fishing tackle to make camping life a pleasure, and if it were not for the bad roads and rainy weather would be enjoying their trip hugely. They expect to be one year in making the trip.

50th Wedding Anniversary: Mr. & Mrs. Fred Utz

2009-06-07T09:54:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal
August 20, 1943

Monday, Mr. and Mrs. Fred P. Utz, highly esteemed residents of Fulton, were married fifty years, and in honor of the occasion they were the guests of honor at a dinner party in the evening in the home of their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs.T.W. Jones.
The dining table was beautiful with its lace table cloth, yellow tapers and the centerpiece, which was a crystal bowl filled with golden zenias and daisies. There was also the gold wedding cake with its white icing, topped with a miniature bride and groom. The top bore the dates 1893-1943, and dainty rosebuds decorated the outer edge. The cake was baked by Mrs. Chris Petersen of Clinton. A corsage of gold glads was presented to Mrs. Utz, and one of orchid to Mrs. Fred Schmaldt, a close friend.
Those present at this happy gathering besides the honored couple, the host and hostess and their daughter, Marilyn Jones, were Mr.and Mrs Charles Binghm and daughter, Miss Mary, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Petersen and daughter, Miss Marian, Mr.and Mrs.Fred Schmaldt and daughter, Miss Loraine, of Clinton, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Utz and daughters, Misses Jeane and Lois, of Kewanee.
On August 16, 1893, in the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. Sarah Beauvais, in Fulton, her daughter, Miss Marie, exchanged nuptial vows before Father Stack, pastor of the Immaculate Conception church. Their attendants were Miss Jeanette Beauvais, sister of the bride, and Fred Schmaldt. They have spent their entire married life in Fulton. They have a son, Curtis, of Kewanee, a daughter Florence, now Mrs. T.W. Jones of Fulton, and three grandchildren, Jeane and Lois Utz of Kewanee, and Marilyn Jones of Fulton.
Mr. Utz at the present time is superintendent of the city water works, and is on the job every day.
They have many friends in Fulton who extend their congratulations and best wishes and hope they will celebrate many more anniversaries together.

4th of July, 1891

2009-06-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: June 30, 1891

The Fire Works

The fire works display this year will exceed anything ever given here before. It will be a magnificent sight. The first thing in order in the evening will be a grand illumination of the bridge with colored fire and electric lights. The platform from which the fire works are to be shot off will be placed on the top of the truss of the high span the highest point on the bridge and 100 feet above the surface of the river.

Lyons Fulton Bridge

2009-06-07T09:44:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal
June 30, 1891
The First to Cross

Saturday evening at seven o'clock the first team crossed the high bridge. It was Ira Stockwell's handsome span of blacks attached to a barouche containing Mr. Stockwell holding the ribbons, and the following other gentlemen all members of the board of directors of the Lyons and Fulton Bridge: J.K.P. Balch, S.W. Gardiner, C.L. Root, G.W. Ashton and J.A. Nattinger. Although for some distance there was no railing on either side and that where the structure is sixty or seventy feet above the water, yet the transit was safely accomplished. The party drove about our city and then returned having enjoyed the honor of being the first to ride over the handsome bridge.

Commencements at Fulton High School

2009-06-07T09:43:00.001-07:00

The headline in the Fulton Journal in May 2009 indicated FHS was about to honor its 68th class of graduates. A query at the newspaper office and the school office failed to answer my puzzlement about the number. Library research produced the answer.

1876: 1st graduating class
Fulton Journal: June 16, 1876:

We noticed briefly last week that the First Annual Commencement of the Fulton High School was held at the schoolroom on Wednesday evening, and was attended by a large and appreciative audience. Every available space was filled with seats which were speedily occupied by the throngs coming in, and yet accommodation could not be provided for all, numbers being obliged to stand by the doors, and wherever else they could gain a foothold. This interest was gratifying in the extreme, not only to the teachers and the graduates, but to the friends of the great and beneficent free school system of the State. The day has arrived when this system has become duly understood and appreciated by the people of our land, and nothing short of a revolution which must spring from a source against which every effort for the weal and the welfare of the country will be powerless, can crush it, or even divest it of any of its advantages.
The school room was beautifully and tastefully decorated with pictures, flowers, and festoons of evergreens and forest leaves. The doors between the teachers’ room and the platform were thrown open, thus giving ample space for conducting the exercises, and adding much to the general appearance of the whole room. At 8 ½ o’clock, Prof. Loomis, the Principal, Miss S.E. Linn, the Assistant, Misses Laura Gerrish, Mate Green, Etta Jones and Jennie Knight, the graduates, accompanied by Revs. D.E. Wells and J.S. David and the choir consisting of Prof. Mark Jones, Mrs. A.A. Austin, Miss Lucy Brink, Miss Hattie E. Green, Miss Josie E. Knight and Mr. Chas. Startsman appeared upon the stage…
On June 4, 1941, the 63rd commencement for Fulton high school was held in the Coliseum. It was to be the last commencement for that numbering system because in 1940, Fulton Community High School District No. 306 was organized with 5 new board members: Henry Flikkema, Frank Bell, Howard Abbott, John Sterenberg, and Macy Lockhart. It appears to have been a tumultuous time as people from Garden Plain and portions of Union Grove protested being part of Fulton and preferred to join with Erie. Areas north of Fulton wanted to go to Thomson.
On May 29, 1942, the first annual commencement of the Fulton Community High School was held in the Coliseum with 28 “boys and girls” receiving their diplomas.
The name change went from Fulton High School to Fulton Community High School and the numbering system went from 63 to 1. The current numbering system leaves out 63 years of Fulton’s educational history. It could be adjusted easily by adding dates 1876-2010 and eliminating current numerals.

Charles Utz

2009-05-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
Jan 20, 1939

Charles G. Utz, a retired businessman, passed away at his home on Lincolnway at 12:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon after a lingering illness of four years duration. Since November 1st, his condition had been serious and he required attention both night and day, which was faithfully given by his wife.
Funeral services were held at two o'clock Tuesday afternoon in Fay's chapel, with the Rev. Jones Earl Corwin, pastor of the Presbyterian church, officiating.
During the service, Mr. and Mrs. Mino Flikkema sang "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and "Nearer My God to Thee."
Pallbearers were W.J. Considine, James McCullagh, W.H. Tremayne, W.H. Mitchell, Earl Rush, David Schwab, and Charles Johnson. Interment was in the Fulton cemetery.
Charles Gottlieb Utz was born in Chicago, October 1, 1856, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gottlieb Utz. When four years of age his family moved to Dixon and two years later,1862, located in Fulton.
He was educated in the Fulton schools and upon the completion of his studies he worked for his father, learning the butcher trade. In 1896, he opened a meat market of his own, but a year later he and his wife went to Davenport. They resided there and in Chicago for five years and upon their return here he went into business with his father.
The elder Mr. Utz retired from business in 1905, turning his shop over to his two sons, Charles and Fred, and for eight years they were in partnership. The former bought his brother's share in 1913 and managed it until his retirement four years ago. He spent his remaining years in a well earned vacation.
Mr. Utz was a first class butcher, having learned the trade thoroughly under the tutelage of his father. When he retired, it was the first time in over seventy years that a meat market was not managed or owned by a member of the Utz family.
Throughout his residence here he maintained the respect of his fellowmen and was held in high esteem by all.
On July 25, 1896, he was married to Rosa Palina Neff, and to this union six children were born, all of whom passed away in infancy. Mrs. Utz died on March 15, 1914, and on August 12, 1915, he married Miss Louise Thomson of Fulton, who died in 1925.
On October 4, 1932, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Julia Larson of Elwood, Ill., the ceremony taking place in the parsonage of the St. Paul's Lutheran church in Clinton.
He is survived by his wife, two brothers, Fred and William, a niece, Mrs. T.W. Jones, all of Fulton, a nephew, Curtis Utz of Kewanee, a step-son, Louis Larson, and a step-daughter, Mrs. Ellen Carlson, both of Cadillac, Michigan.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Carl and William, and two sisters, Elizabeth and Rosebud, and those mentioned above.

Obit: Grace Sterenberg

2009-05-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

FultonJournal
December 3, 1918
Death of Aged Woman

Having been a continuous resident of Fulton for nearly a third of a century, Mrs. Grace Sterenberg, Friday afternoon, answered the final call and passed away at her home on Fourteenth avenue, the cause of her death being due to infirmities of old age.
Mrs. Sterenberg, whose maiden name was Grace Vandenberg, was born in the town of Uithuirmeeden, in the province of Gronegen, Holland, September 18, 1836. About sixty years ago in her native country, she was married to Thomas Bruins, who died in 1880, leaving her with the care of three sons and three daughters. Six years later Mrs. Bruins with her three daughters and two sons, Jacob and Claus, came to this country and located in Fulton. In 1890 Mrs. Bruins became the wife of B.J. Sterenberg. He died nine years ago.
Mrs. Sterenberg had no children by her second marriage, but by her first marriage leaves three daughters, Winnie, the wife of Henry Knoll, who resides in Ustick: Jennie at home and Anna, who married Roy Sikkema and resides in Fulton; also three sons, John Bruins in Holland, Jacob of Morrison and Claus Bruins of Fulton, and two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Ludens of Chicago and Mrs. J.H. Spoolman of Fulton.
Mrs. Sterenberg became ill Thursday night, and to those about her it was evident that the end was near and her children were called to her bedside and were present when she passed away.
The funeral was held Monday afternoon at two o'clock at the First Reformed church with services conducted by Rev. William VanVliet; interment in the Fulton cemetery.

Mrs. Berend Sterenberg

2009-05-16T18:30:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal
March 24, 1876

Died: Near Fulton, March 19, 1876, Mrs. Berend Sterenberg, aged 40 years and 9 months. By this affliction, seven children are left motherless, the youngest being less than a year old. The funeral of the deceased was attended on Tuesday afternoon at the Reformed church, by a very large congregation, including many persons who speak and understand English only. The pastor, Rev. Mr. Hazenberg, conducted the first part of the services in the Holland language, his discourse being listened to by his people with much earnestness and tenderness. The remaining services were conducted in English by Revs. D.E. Wells and Josiah Leonard.

Mrs. Moses Green

2009-05-16T17:16:00.000-07:00

FultonJournal
September 8, 1882

Mrs. Moses A Green, wife of M.A. Green of Ustick township, died very suddenly on the Fair grounds at Morrison on Thursday afternoon at about half-past two o'clock. She had just partaken of a lunch and went off under the trees to enjoy a smoke and rest, where she was soon after found in a dying condition. Medical aid was summoned at once but it did not avail and shortly after she breathed her last. Her death was said to be caused by exhaustion, and effusion of the brain.

Family Reunion: Green

2009-05-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
August 9, 1889

A birthday anniversary was held August 4th in honor of Mrs.Susanna Green, in Ustick, at the residence of Mrs. John Pape, by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a few old neighbors and friends to the number of seventy-five. There were present thirty-two great grandchildren, twenty-five grandchildren and six of her own children. Five other children scattered around in other states could not be present. Mrs. Giles Hoover, of Ohio, came last Wednesday, and Mrs. Edward Height, of Winfield, Iowa, came Thursday to celebrate their mother's birthday. They will visit friends and relatives for two or three weeks and then return home. Mr. and Mrs. Birt Embick, of Leaf River, her grandchildren, were present. Mrs. Susanna Green is very smart, and gets out around as active as lots of folks at sixty, and this being her 90th birthday, speaks well for this venerable old lady. She raised a family of twelve children, and eleven of them are living now. Moses A. Green is the oldest child and Mrs. Pape is the youngest. At about noon two tables were spread out under the shade of two large maple trees and they were spread with a bountiful supply of food. About three o'clock a fervent prayer was offered by George Pape, of York, and after a good handshaking with the old lady all wended their way home thinking they had spent a very pleasant day.

Great River Road Kiosk: Akker/Balk

2009-05-16T14:36:00.000-07:00

2009:
Den Besten Park next to de Immigrant windmill is the site of the new Great River Road Kiosk in Fulton. One side focuses on the Great River Road and the other on the history of Fulton.
A large picture of farmers working a field is featured on the local history side. No identification of the people is indicated. However, the photograph was given by Mrs. Paul (Evelyn) Sterenberg taken at the Sebe Akker farm and worked by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Balk. The farm was located at Blind Charlie’s Corner on what is now Penrose Road. Their descendents are numerous in Whiteside County.
Mrs. Peter Balk was born Kate Akker on December 7, 1867, the daughter of John and Abeltje Akker. She lived until August 13, 1943. Her obituary states that “older residents well remember that she was in charge of a milk route in town and regardless of weather conditions was faithful to her duties, a trait characteristic of her in anything she ever undertook to do.” She had one brother, Sebe Akker, and sisters, Ellen Akker Tillema (Albert), Josie Akker Flikkema (Henry), Maggie Akker Dykema (George) and two half brothers, John and George Kolk.
On February 6, 1887 she married Peter Balk who lived until December 6, 1935. They had five daughters, Mrs. Clarence Bielema, Mrs. Dick (Jennie) Tichler, Mrs. John (Margaret) Klimstra, Mrs. Peter (Abbie) Wiersema and Mrs. Ren (Ella) Dykstra; four sons, John, Roy, Clarence and George.
Peter Balk was born in the Netherlands in 1863 and came to the U.S. at age 17. His sisters were Mrs. Louis Pyse and Mrs. Jake Sikkema and a brother, Corneil.
Fulton is proud of its opportunity to be a selected city for the placement of this kiosk. Its location in the riverfront park beckons for picnics or relaxing in the beautiful setting.

John Phelps

2009-05-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
February 8,1884

John Phelps was born in Greenfield, Franklin county, Massachusetts, Thursday, April 8, 1819 and died at Morrison, Illinois, at 11 o'clock p.m. Tuesday, February
5,1884, making his age sixty-four years, nine months and twenty-seven days. While at Morrison, January 31, he received a paralytic stroke from which he did not recover. The remains were brought to Fulton Wednesday and the funeral held at his former home, Rev. W.D. Smith preaching the funeral sermon. Afterwards Fulton City Lodge, No. 189, A.F. and A.M., of which the deceased was a member, took charge of the obsequies, and under the direction of Worshipful Master Snyder escorted the body to the cemetery, where it was deposited in its final resting place with the appropriate ceremonies of that order. In 1884 (?) Mr. Phelps came to Fulton where he has since lived. Soon after he arrived he commenced mercantile business with his brother, under the firm name of A.& J. Phelps. In 1849 his brother died and Mr. Phelps continued in business till 1855 when he sold out and built the stone warehouse on the levee. Mr. Phelps filled with credit many offices of trust. In years gone by he took an active interest in the advancement of this city. In 1853 in company with Judge James McCoy, he purchased in St.Louis press and type for the first newspaper in this part of the State. The first numbers of the paper, called the Whiteside Investigator, was issued in May, 1854, and after various changes in 1863 the name became the Fulton Journal. Mr. Phelps was widely known throughout this section, and leaves a son and a daughter, also many friends who knew and appreciated his good qualities.

Passing Through

2009-05-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
May 21, 1875

The delegation of Sioux Indians who are to present their grievances to the "Great Father" at Washington, passed through this city last Friday morning, on the Northwestern Railway, and were objects of considerable interest to those who happened to be at the depot at the time. The celebrities were Red Cloud, Spotted Tail, Pawnee Killer, American Horse, Conquering Bear, Swift Bear, Bad Wound, Sitting Bull, Tall Lance, Fast Thinker, Crow Dog and Shoulder. Only one had his squaw with him, and the reason was that she refused to stay behind and plant corn while her lord and master was living on the fat of the land at the big hotels. The party occupied a special car attached to the rear of the train.

Farwell # 17

2009-04-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

October 2, 1906
Fulton Journal

Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Farwell, who live on Dr. W.K. Farley's farm in Ustick, are receiving the congratulations of numerous friends, all owing to the arrival of a bouncing baby boy in their home, Friday, September 28. Mr. Farwell was advised to telegraph the news to President Roosevelt as this makes him the father of seventeen children, all living, and twelve of them remain under the parental roof and form a very interesting and unusual scene when they gather at the long dining table to partake of their meals.

T.R. Farwell

2009-04-25T17:19:00.000-07:00

September 25, 1906
Fulton Journal

J.D. Farwell was in town Saturday and called at our office and gave us an introduction to his youngest son, who is the latest representative of sixteen children all living, who call Jay "father." This boy is twenty-one months old, twenty-one inches tall and wears trousers with all the grace of a Beau Brummel. He shakes his curly head when he responds to the name of Theodore Roosevelt Farwell, but when you call him "Teddy" he smiles and is Johnny on the spot, bubbling over with rougish fun. He is the littlest big good looking boy of the Farwell family and can wind the old man around his little finger every time he crooks it.

They Voted for Abraham Lincoln

2009-04-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
February 12, 1909

Many Survivors in Fulton who Supported Lincoln for President.
Today marks the centennial anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln which recalls many reminiscences, especially among the supporters of the great emancipator during his presidential campaigns.
While Fulton has none that claims any relationshuip to the martyred president, yet there are several still living in this city who voted for him when he was elected president.
Among those now residing in Fulton, who were ardent supporters, and voted for Abraham Lincoln for the highest office in the nation are--
Dr. C.A. Griswold, E.D. Chapman, John Stuart, G.A. Durkee, J.W. Hurlbut, L.P. Hill, James A. Kyle, J.H. Goble, Dr. S.G. Seeley, George C. Loomis, H.L. Houghton, R.E. Lay, George Hansen, W.P. Culbertson, Milo Jones, J.M. Fay, J.W. Ross, William Cupp, David Baker, John Munneke, George C. Bugbee, H. Worthington, H. Pease, Hoken Hanson, L.N. Reed, G. Utz, P.C. Coster.
Those who were residents of Fulton at that time were Dr. Griswold, and Messrs. Culbertson, Stuart, Jones, Chapman and Munneke.

Departed: Bradstreet Robinson

2009-02-17T18:14:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
March 1, 1889

Bradstreet Robinson was born in Somerset county, Maine, January 1, 1812. He died in this city, February 26 (1889) of paralysis. He left Maine at the age of seventeen years and went to Ohio. In 1833 he came to Illinois. He built the first house in Mt. Carroll and also built the mill in that city. He came to Fulton in 1854 and was for a time in the lumber business, but afterward built and managed the hotel, the Robinson House, till in 1884. He was married at Mt. Carroll in 1846 to Miss Elizabeth Murford. He leaves a widow, one son and two daughters, grown to manhood and womanhood. The obsequies were held at the late residence of the deceased at 1:30 o'clock this afternoon. Rev. Cass Davis, pastor of the M.E. church in this city, officiated. The burial was performed by the relatives and near friends at 5 o'clock this afternoon.
Bradstreet Robinson was a plain, frank, conscientious man. He lived a temperate, moral and an honest life. He possessed a strong will and untiring energy. What he believed to be right he advocated boldly. What he advocated he practiced. He was among the first to advocate the abolition of slavery and always advocated temperance, total abstinence of the use of tobacco in any form or intoxicants as a beverage. He professed religion, but was not bound by the creed of any church. The orthodox religion, as interpreted by some, was too narrow for him. He believed that every man should work out his own salvation. He gave the subject of religion a great amount of study and thought. By honesty, economy and energy he accumulated more than a competency. He died loved most by those who knew him best, admired by many, respected by all.

TRAMPS

2009-02-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
April 30, 1889

For several weeks tramps have had their rendezvous alongside the C.& N.W. track south of this city. The camp was about forty rods outside the city limits and the tramps knew it. They grew more bold and insolent each day. They were prowling around in Claus Bush's kitchen during the night time. They slept in John W. Munneke's barn and started a fire in his barn. They bought numerous kegs of beer and gallons of whisky and put themselves outside the same with great expedition. They became so bad that John W. Munneke came to town and swore out a warrant charging them with vagrancy. The city marshal organized a posse comitatus and,aided by Deputy Sheriff Fay and Constables J.W. Farley and Hervey Smith went to the camp of the tramps and arrested seventeen of them. Four others were arrested in the city. They were tried before George Terwilliger, justice of the peace, and eighteen of them convicted. One was sentenced to pay a fine of $20 or be imprisoned in the county jail five days; six to pay a fine of $30 or be imprisoned thirty days; eleven to pay a fine of $50 or be imprisoned fifty days. C.W. Knapp conducted the prosecution in an able manner. George E. Duis, of Dixon, who is attending the college and will graduate in June, defended one of the tramps, Frank Wilson, the one who received the lightest sentence. The tramps were taken to the county jail Tuesday. They were a bad crowd. There were half a dozen razors and more knives found concealed on their persons. Sheriff Keefer does not like such prisoners. He keeps the jail clean and free from vermin and this class of prisoners makes him and his assistants a great deal of extra work.

Show Girls

2009-02-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
December 6,1912

SHOW GIRLS IN SALOONS
Invade Fulton and Step up to Bar and Call for War Medicine

There was a show troupe that plays "The Sweetest Girl from Paris" that included twenty or more chorus girls that got off a train in Fulton Wednesday and when they got up town they boldly entered the saloons and going up to the bar made a noise just like a man and then called for "war medicine." They did not seek entrance by any side door or ask to be directed to a wine room, but went brazenly in by the front door and drank beer, etc., just like veteran booze fighters.
It was a thing to be condemned, as there is something very demoralizing connected with women being allowed to enter saloons. There should be an ordinance prohibiting women frequenting saloons under a penalty of having the saloon's license revoked. The spectacle of a lot of silly chorus girls half drunk entering saloons and drinking with men is something rank. Boys and girls on the street watched the performance and it could not but be demoralizing. Such a thing should never be allowed to occur in this town again, as it was an outrage on decency and the proper control of the liquor traffic.

History of Spring Valley Church

2009-01-25T19:58:00.000-08:00

By Audrey Kooi

100 Years at Spring Valley Reformed Church Fulton
Near the turn of the century, many families had settled in the Spring Valley area that were of Reformed Church heritage. The nearest Reformed church congregations were located in the Fulton and Morrison area but the distance made regular worship difficult. Travel was by horse and buggy or bobsled and in many cases a round trip took several hours.
In the winter of 1908-1909, a classical missionary, Rev. Peter Braak, was sent into the territory by the Classis of Wisconsin for the purpose of establishing a church. Despite a poor economy, he found a strong desire in the hearts of several families to organize a church. Conducting a house to house canvas he also discovered many Presbyterian families who had a church and parsonage but were unable to support a pastor. Neither group wished to leave its parent denomination so a logical compromise was worked out. The Presbyterians would provide their facilities and the Reformed segment would help support a pastor.
On February 12, 1909 a meeting was called by Rev. Braak for all persons interested in organizing a Ustick Reformed Church. Twenty families appeared who were willing to organize. In March of 1909, the combined Presbyterian and Reformed congregations extended a call to Rev. Zwier Roetman, a graduating student from Western Theological Seminary, to become their joint pastor.
After two years had passed, fifteen more families had been added to the original twenty in the Reformed Church unit. The decision was made to buy two acres of land on which to build a church and parsonage. On November 1, 1911, the new church was formally dedicated to the worship of God and in that year the corporate name was officially declared to be the Spring Valley Reformed Church. Rev. Roetman continued to serve the Reformed congregation as pastor. Today the church is still at the same location 10960 Spring Valley Road.
Over the years the original structure has been added onto, modernized and facilities added to accommodate the churches activities. In 1972 one of the changes made to the property was a large parking lot with an outdoor chapel for drive in worship services. Pastor Ralph VanRheenen held the first outdoor worship and 37 years later it is continuing to bless the congregation and community. Every Sunday night at 7:00 from mid-May to mid-September cars fill the parking lot to enjoy Christian concerts and a Biblical message. They have a slogan “come as you are in the family car.” Last year a prayer garden was added to the outdoor service area, it is open to the public as a place of rest and reflection.
One hundred years later, Spring Valley’s membership has grown to 95 families consisting of 165 confessing members. Pastor Scott Bonestroo serves as the 15th pastor to lead the congregation. The mission statement for this church family: Developing Fully Devoted Followers of Christ. Every Sunday the church holds a traditional service at 9 a.m. that features choir, hymns, liturgy and a Biblical message. At 11:00 a.m. a contemporary service is held, which includes a live worship band with drums, guitars and a keyboard, worship songs sung as you may hear them on Christian radio, skits and a Biblical message. For more information about the church call 815-772-3554 or visit their website www.springvalleychurch.net

Beer

2009-01-20T17:28:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
1912

January 12:
POINTER SUPPLY COMPANY
Prominent Clinton Firm Has Located in Fulton
The Pointer Supply company of Clinton, which was incorporated under the laws of Iowa in October, 1909, and had since been doing business in that city, dealing exclusively in jobbing Pointer beer, a product manufactured and bottled by the Clinton Brewing company, has moved its place of business to Fulton, and now occupies the store owned by the Fulton Realty company north of the Fulton Drug company.
The office in Fulton which is now the headquarters for the company, is in charge of Fred A. Upton, the principal stockholder and general manager. Mr. Upton is a reliable businessman, who was born and raised in Lyons He devotes his entire time and attention to looking after the business of the company.
In connection with the Pointer Supply company, John G. Scott, successor to J.H. White, has a wholesale liquor office in the same building. Mr. Scott was for many years traveling salesman for J.H. White in the wholesale liquor business, and since his death has been the proprietor.

February 2:
ANOTHER WHOLESALE BEER FIRM COMING
The Potosi Brewing company of Potosi, Wis., has leased the room just vacated by E. Bos, the tailor in the Lemke block on Twelfth avenue and will open a branch house in this city. The business in Fulton will be in charge of Lawrence Carstensen, who for several months had been manager of the Val Blatz Brewing company's house in Fulton. The business of this firm is largely in the states adjoining Illinois.

February 9:
MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL
Two Wholesale Beer Licenses Were Granted at Session Held Tuesday Night.
Tuesday evening at the meeting of the city council, the mayor and all of the aldermen were present. Two petitions, one from the Potosi Brewing comnpany of Potosi, Wis., and other from the Gund Brewing company of LaCrosse, Wis., each to conduct the wholesale beer business in Fulton, were accepted and the clerk instructed to issue licenses upon receipt of the city treasurer for the payment of the license fee.
The Potosi company will conduct its business in the Lemke block on Twelfth avenue, and the Gund company will erect a portable building on the block south of the Burlinton depot for its place of business, which will be in charge of S.J. Jordan of Clinton.

Thief

2009-01-13T19:11:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: July 23, 1909

PLUNDER DROPPED BY THIEF
Thomas R. Daley Shot at a Supposed Chicken Thief, Who Dropped Bundle of Stolen Goods.

Wednesday morning Thomas R.Daley, who is a night watchman at the Patent Novelty company's plant and resides across the street from the factory, heard a noise among the chickens about four o'clock and on looking out of the window at the plant saw a man prowling around his hen house. He ran out of the factory and fired a shot at the intruder.
The man carried a bundle and when the shot was fired he dropped it and ran south along the Burlington track towards the depot.
Mr. Daley then went to his poultry house where he found that nothing had been disturbed. In looking around he found a large bundle in a sort of a coffee or sugar sack lying by the fence. He picked it up and found in it fourteen pairs of pants, and an overcoat. All were new and had evidently been stolen from a car or or some freight house as there were no cost marks or prices on them other than the sizes and lot number used by the manufacturer.
City Marshal Archie Goble was notified and the stolen articles were taken to the city hall. On the sack that contained the goods was stenciled the name, "T.M. Gobble Co., Clinton, Iowa."
The articles found are not high priced, but of the cheaper grade, the pantaloons are of the kind that usually sell for $1.50 a pair.

Junction Hotel

2009-01-11T14:57:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: July 26, 1904

The hotel building located at the Junction and known as the Junction House is being torn down, and the lumber will be shipped to Gibbon, Minn., to be again used for building purposes. The Junction House, one of the old landmarks in that part of the city, was located a few rods from the crossing of the Northwestern and C.M.& St.P. railroads. Before the days of signal towers, derailing switches and block signals, and when all trains on both roads stopped at the Junction, the old time inn did a flourishing business. For years it was the home of Dr. H.D. Flower a travelling physician who amassed a fortune while practising his profession and to the estate the property yet forms a part.

Barley and Mustard

2009-01-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: December 1, 1903
FULTON ELEVATOR BUSINESS
Over Half Million Bushels of Barley Cleaned Annually--2,000 Bushels of Mustard Seed Marketed

On the river bank just north of the foot of Cherry street and adjoining J.C. Snyder's warehouse is the Fulton elevator, which is owned by E.A. Brown of Luverne, Minn., and operated by him under the supervision of George W. Damon, as manager.
There are not many people in Fulton, who know about the enormous quantity of barley that is handled in this elevator during the year.
In the past season there were over one-half million bushels of this grain shipped from northern Iowa and southern Minnesota, to this elevator where it was cleaned by being run through a screener and mills twice and again reloaded onto the cars and shipped to eastern markets.
In the process of cleaning last year over 2,000 bushels of mustard seed were taken from the grain. This seed finds ready market in Chicago at seventy cents per bushel. During the year the only large quantitites of mustard seed that was received on the Chicago market came from Fulton.
The month just closed. Monday has been a very busy month at this establishment, over 150 cars of barley having been cleaned, reloaded onto the cars and shipped to the east. Each car will average over 1,000 bushels of grain. This makes a total of nearly 160,000 bushels of grain handled twice.

Girl Scouts

2009-01-11T14:30:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: June 20, 1911

The latest organization is the girl scouts movement. Their objects are all good ones, for they intend to learn how to sew and cook and make their own dresses and know all about housework so that when they get married they can mend and press hubby's clothes. They also intend to learn how to ride horseback, row a boat, nurse the sick and talk baseball intelligently.

An Odd Outfit

2009-01-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: June 20, 1911

Saturday afternoon an odd outfit appeared on the streets of Fulton. It comprised two men, two women, a bunch of swarthy children and four cinnamon bears. The outfit traveled about in three wagons, two of which were covered and occupied by the men, women and children and the other was provided with a cage in which to carry the bears. The men and women resenbled Russians, but claimed that they were Cubans. While in town the men led two of the bears through the business streets and the other two made a canvass of the residence portions of the town. They begged from store to store and from house to house, and for a nickel or a dime given them the bears would be made to dance. The animals would wind up their stunt by climbing a tree or telephone pole.

50 Years Later: Fulton Museums

2008-09-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: November 10, 1955

To the Editor:
Recently I visited Grant's home and Galena's museum. I didn't especially care to see either, having seen so many in our own country, and Europe--including the British museum. However I really enjoyed looking at the exhibits,some antique and some not so antique. It is a museum of which Galena may well be proud.
Then I began to wonder why more cities don't have their own museums. Why can't Fulton have one? As I thought of the descendants of the first settlers of our fair city and of the descendants of the first families among our Holland people I could not help but visualize the lovely and interesting articles that have been kept in attics and trunks for years: things that are treasured yet still are a nuisance because there really is no room for them. Were these placed in a museum, they would be safe,cared for, and shared. The boys and girls of our schools would like to have the opportunity of seeing them and learning about them in connections with their history, geography and science.
We have had our centennial which was a credit to the people of Fulton and thoroly enjoyed by all because all co-operated to make it a success. Why can't we co-operate in a museum project, not as a city but as the folks who live here? It would be such fun and increase our unity and friendliness. It's a project to which old and young can bring their wisdom and enthusiasm.

Welcome Home

2008-09-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: October 8, 1875
Mrs. Peter Kitchen was the recipient of a genuine surprise on her return home on Friday afternoon last. Some 14 weeks ago she started on a visit to her father's at Grand Rapids, Mich. Only think of it. Peter a forlorn widower for 14 weeks! But little recked he as along as the good wife was improving in health in the invigorating climate of the Wolverine state. But the air becomes pretty chilly away down in Michigan as November approaches, and Mrs. K. concluded to come home and comfort Peter. Several of her female friends got information that she would be in Fulton on Friday afternoon and concluded to give her a peaceful but nevertheless warm welcome home. So they quietly went to her residence, gathered in the parlor and closed the door. As soon as she had entered the sitting room and laid away her wraps, the leader went out, embraced her, kissed of course, and bid her welcome back to old Fulton and her friends. Then another came out, and went through the same affectionate performance, and then another, and then another, until she was surrounded by nearly a score of fond, devoted hearts. She was deeply affected by the demonstration, but the cheerful spirits of her friends soon restored her, and for several hours thereafter the party was the happiest that Fulton has seen for some time. And Peter is also happy.

Drownings

2008-09-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
June 25, 1875

A deep gloom spread over our city on Sunday afternoon last, its black pall resting over us yet, as it will for many a day to come. Just as our citizens had gathered around the noonday meal, and the quietness of the Sabbath reigned without, and peace within, the startling cry rang thro' the streets that two of the most esteemed young men of the place had been swallowed up by the relentless current of the Mississippi, and that two others had narrowly escaped the same fate. So sudden and startling was it that many at first doubted its authenticity, and we were among that number. We could not believe that two strong, noble, generous young men, one having passed into manhood's estate, and the other just entering upon it, and whom we had noticed the evening before in the full tide of health, had been so suddenly and without warning snatched from our midst. But it was so. Eben Andrews, son-in-law of B. Robinson; Charles Kahl,Jr.,clerk in Mr. Robinson's store; Herman H. Hobein, hardware and tin merchant, and Wm. Allen, workman and clerk in his employ, had gone down to the river early in the forenoon, entered a small sail boat, coursed up and down the stream a few times, and then two came back--the others had crossed a darker river than the Father of Waters, and would thenceforth never return to greet kith or kin. These two were Herman H. Hobein and Charles Kahl, Jr., and in their untimely death the city mourns.

General Grant

2008-09-19T16:48:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
July 13, 1885

But little has been done in Fulton in way of public observance of the death of General Grant. Two flags were draped at half mast and Dana's store decorated with crape and flags. J.W. Broadhead arranged one of his show windows with mourning goods and a portrait of Grant heavily draped in crape was placed in the center. The Postoffice building was not decorated in memory of the old soldier.

Clothes Line

2008-07-15T14:43:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: August 18, 1893

A predatory cow made a raid on a clothes line in the First Ward yesterday, and before she was detected had succeeded in eating two frilled skirts, three lace trimmed chemiwhatyoucallems, and several pairs of stockings. As the cow stumbled down an embankment an exceedingly angry woman appeared at the top, waving a broom vociferously, and with an expression of countenance which said, in language as plain as words could express it, "What wouldn't I give if I could cuss like a man."

Shoe Stretcher

2008-07-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: June 6, 1902

In looking over the list of patents granted for new and notable inventions in the Scientific Amnerican for May 31, we noticed No.700,705 was issued to C.L. Passmore of Fulton, Illinois, for a shoe stretcher. This handy and practical tool is a long ways in advance of the "Lightning Shoe Stretcher" patented by Mr. Passmore a few years ago, and of which over 100,000 were sold.

Pigeon

2008-07-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

1917: Fulton Journal

A few days ago a carrier pigeon was found at the store of A.D. Mitchell & Son and Wardell Stowell, who opens the store early in the morning, fed and took care of the bird. It became very tame. Thursday it was caught in the traffic jam in front of the store and met a violent death.

Squirrels

2008-07-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: June 6, 1902

Dr. G.W. Clendenon has a fine colony of Michigan squirrels at his roadway residence. Last fall he brought a number of squirrels from Michigan and installed them in the trees on his lawn. A pair survived the raids made by cats, dogs and kids, and now there are four squirrelkins added, and the new arrivals are too cute for anything.

Julia Utz

2008-06-20T17:19:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: December 4, 1947

Excerpts:

Funeral services for Mrs. Julia Utz, aged 71, were conducted in the Fay Funeral Home at two o'clock Monday afternoon. The Rev. Harry E. Harned of Clinton officiated.
Burial was in the Fulton cemetery.
Mrs. Utz, whose home had been in Fulton for a number of years, went to Alpena, Mich., last summer to live with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Klauburg, who cared for her in her last illness. She died Nov. 27 in the Alpena General hospital.
She was born May 11, 1876, in Copenhagen, Denmark, the daughter of John and Emma Sorensen Jorgensen. She came to America in her youth.
On Oct. 4, 1932, she was married to Charles Utz and the home was made in Fulton. Mr. Utz died in 1939 and Mrs. Utz continued to live here until last summer.
She is survived by Mrs. Charles Klauburg, a daughter by an earlier marriage and by two granddaughters all of Alpina, Mich. Mr. and Mrs. Klauburg accompanied the body to Fulton for the funeral.

William Utz

2008-06-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: September 11, 1947
William Utz Buried Monday

Private funeral services for William F. Utz were conducted at two o'clock Monday afternoon in the Fay Funeral Home. A Christian Science Reader officiated. He died suddenly at 11 o'clock Saturday morning in his home at 1309 Tenth avenue.
Burial was in the family lot in the Fulton cemetery. Casket bearers were T.W. Jones and James Shipman of Fulton; Curtis Utz of Chicago; David Beauvais of Sterling; and Christian Petersen and Charles Bingham of Clinton.
Mr. Utz, who was 83 years of age at the time of his death, was the son of Gottleib and Margaret Schnedt Utz, pioneer Fulton settlers who came to this country from Germany.
He was born in Fulton on May 22, 1864, and lived his entire life here. He received his education in the Fulton schools and for a number of years was engaged in the meat market business with his father.
Mr. Utz was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, and one brother. Nearest relatives surviviing are a brother, Fred Utz, and a niece, Mrs. T.W. Jones of Fulton, and a nephew, Curtis Utz of Chicago.
Coming from out of town to attend the funeral were Curtis Utz of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. David Beauvais of Sterling, and several friends from Clinton.

Attempted Suicide

2008-06-15T11:44:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal: May 30, 1884

Thursday evening a little before 6 o'clock, Charles Utz, of this town, cut his throat with a butcher knife. Doctors C.A. Griswold and H.M. Kennedy were summoned and succeeded in taking up the arteries, so that his morning he was able to dress himself and will undoubtedly recover. Charles Utz is twenty seven years old, and works for his father, G. Utz, an old and respected citizen, who is the proprietor of a butcher shop. Charles' worst fault is his love for drink, and this was the cause of the rash act. He has been sick for several days, and Thursday was downtown for the first time. He went home and went to the barn where he cut a gash four and one half inches long in his throat. Some small arteries were severed, but the windpipe and large arteries were not. In answer to the question why he did it, said. "They wanted to hang me yesterday, and today they want to shoot me."

Gottlieb Utz Passes Away

2008-06-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: May 14, 1915

Gottlieb Utz, an old, esteemed and respected citizen of Fulton, died at his home on Tenth avenue Wednesday at twelve o'clock, noon. He had been in failing health for the last year and this spring was confined to his bed for over six weeks.
Mr. Utz was born in Waldenbronn, near Esslingen, Germany, January 19, 1831. When he was seven years of age his father died, leaving him, his mother and a sister, both of whom are dead. A few years later Mr. Utz started to learn the butcher's trade and after his three years of apprenticeship went to Switzerland, where he was employed a few years.
At the age of nineteen he came to America and landed at Philadelphia where he worked for one year. In 1852 he went to Chicago and engaged in the meat business, and four years later he was married to Miss Margaret Schnedt. In 1860 they moved to Dixon and engaged in business there two years, and from there moved his family to Fulton, where he had been a continuous resident for the past fifty-three years. For over forty-five years he was actively engaged in the meat business in this city, and in 1870 erected his first brick store building on the west side of Lincoln Way, and later built a double brick store building on the opposite side of the street.
Mr. Utz was an honest and a reputable man, respected by all and esteemed by many who knew him. He was a public spirited man of good principles, and led an industrious, busy life, always contributing to the building up of Fulton. The worthy and needy were often substantially remembered by him. Years ago he was one of the best known men in our city and the large brick residence he built in 1875 was for many years the best in the city. The spacious lawn was always artistically decorated with his favorite flowers, with a large fountain of running water in the center.
Four years ago he, in company with his son, Charles, and wife, went back to Germany to visit the scenes of his childhood, where he spent five months. There he saw the old home still standing in which he and his father were born. The home is an old land-mark, now being over 100 years old.
Mr. Utz was eighty-four years and five months old at the time of his death, which succeeeded that of his wife by eleven years. He had a family of seven children, of whom four are dead and three are living. Those surviving him are three sons, Charles, William, and Fred, all of Fulton.

Bold Highway robbery

2008-06-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: November 18, 1881

One of Our Citizens Garoted and Pockets Rifled on the Street, Tuesday Night.

On Tuesday evening at nine o'clock, Mr. G. Utz, one of the leading business men of this city, left his store to go home as usual. He had not gone more than a block before he was satisfied that two men were following him, so at the corner near Mrs. Wythe's residence, he stopped to allow them to pass on, but they took that opportunity to carry out their thieving intention. One of the thugs says, "Now take him," and at the same time Mr. Utz was caught by the throat and choked to the ground and struck several violent blows about the chest. "Go through his pockets," were the only other words that Mr. Utz heard his assailants use, and this order was literally carried out, for a watch, worth $45, keys, knife, and about a dollar in change were roughly taken from his pockets and then the robbers disappeared in the darkness. As the attack was from behind and the night very dark there was no chance for any recognition or after identification of this brace of foot-pads. Mr. Utz went into Mrs. Whythe's and procured a lantern before going home. A JOURNAL reporter called on him on Wednesday and found him in good spirits but feeling rather sore after his rough treatment. Mr. Utz said that as his home was some distance from his place of business, he never carried any money excepting a little change. He expected to be down to his market in a day or two at the farthest and hereafter would guess at the time as this is the second watch he has had stolen in two years. If about a hundred or two of these tramp desperadoes were behind the grates, our citizens would breathe freer and feel safer.

Grape Catsup

2008-06-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: August 3, 1877

Editor of the Journal:
As grapes promise to be the most abundant fruit we have this season, and several friends having asked me to give them my receipt for making grape catsup, I send it to you for publictions for their benefit, or any others who may want to use it. We think it very nice with meats, and is not bad as sauce for general use:
Take five pounds of grapes to one pint of vinegar; cook until you can strain through a sieve, to the juice add two pounds of sugar, one tablespoonful of cinnamon, one tablespoonful of black pepper, one tablespoonful of cloves, one-half tablespoonful of salt. Cook down to two qauarts.
Respectfully,
Mrs. D.J. Parker

The Poor

2008-06-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: January 26, 1877

Help the City Poor

Editor of the Journal:
There are several families in this City, the heads of which are able bodied men AND WILLING TO WORK TO SUSTAIN THEIR FAMILIES, but not getting work to do, have become destitute and as that is not the class of persons designated as paupers by law, they are not entitled to County relief, yet they must not starve nor freeze to death in this land of plenty.
As we have no Citizen's Relief Association in this city, all that are charitably disposed, by leaving with me orders for laborers shall be supplied, and at the same time any contributions of clothing, money, provisions, wood, & c., deposited with me shall be properly distributed.
W.Y. Wetzell,
Mayor

Telephones

2008-06-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: July 31, 1917

Telephone System Improvement

A.G. Hawley, president of the Tri-City Telephone Co, is planning extensive improvements in the Fulton system. The central office over the post office is to occupy all of the second floor of the building and new, modern switch boards will be installed. There will be a reception room, switch bord room, operators' room and a supply department. The service will be improved by installing the automatic call system. The work will be done during the fall months, as it is impossible to get material and new switchboard equipment in less than three or four months after being ordered. O.E. Metzler, who is in charge, will have to give up his residence in the exchange rooms and move, as the entire floor will be used for the central office.

Rural School Teachers

2008-06-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: August 31, 1934

Teachers Named for Rural Schools

The teachers who are well known in Fulton and have been engaged to teach at the schools listed below during the coming term:
Lockhart--Burdette Boelkens
Garden Plain--Julia Callahan and Avia McGrath
Cedar Creek--Rosa B. Marx
Stone Street--Orma Seger
Spring Creek--Esther Gusse
Mt. Hope--Nancy Abbott
East Clinton--Marie Bokholdt and Joan Stuit
Smith--Mary Thomson
Cottage Grove--Ada W. Barsema
Tehan--Henrietta Kooi
Cottonwood--Marjorie Fletcher
Goff--Edna Kooi
Crouch--Dorothy Keck
Otter Bluff--Bernice Pollard
Spring Valley--Mildred Davis
Cobb--Dossie Smith
Angelese--Merle Emmert
Kingsbury--Pauline Stone
Dublin--Lester Loftus
James--Freda Ten Boer

Bush's Cafe

2008-06-14T18:08:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: October 11, 1951

50th Birthday and Opening of New Facilities at Bush's

Bush's Cafe will celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of its founding with an Open House next Thursday.
The Open House also will mark the formal opening of two new features added during recent months, the Wooden Shoe and the Industrial Room.
The Wooden Shoe is a modern cocktail lounge and the Industrial room is a spacious private dining room.
Both are located in the rooms just south of the location occupied by Bush's Cafe for a number of years. the new facilities were added after the building in which they are located was purchased from John L. Poole, Jr., by George W. Bush.
Mr. Bush a native of Fulton, has operated the cafe since April, 1944, when he took over the business after the death of his father, Burnie Bush.
Burnie Bush, a native of The Netherlands, had operated the business in several different locations, for more than 40 years. It was always in the same block on Fourth Street as its present location.
Burnie Bush was brought to the United States by his parents at the age of five. Shortly after he arrived he adopted the name he was to carry the rest of his life, Americanizing it from Esbrand van den Buis.
During his long career as a cafe operator he became widely known, not only as an excellent cook, but also as a sportsman and a colorful figure in the developing community of Fulton.
He lost an arm in a hunting accident and for many years amazed his friends and customers with the dexterity of his work with only one arm.
His son, the present proprietor, has carried on the tradition of his father, and has expanded the business a great deal.
Bush's Cafe is known far and wide as one of the finest steak houses in the Middle West and is a popular eating place for prominent figures in the sports and business world when they are in this section of the country.
Much of the success of the business is attributed to the fact that nearly all of the cooking through the years has been done by Burnie Bush and his son George, ably assisted by his wife, Mrs. Leona Bush, who has been a fulltime partner in the operations of the businss in recent years.
Many visitors from out of town are expected at Bush's next Thursday for the Open House and Anniversary celebration.

Squirrels

2008-06-14T18:05:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: June 6, 1902

Dr. G.W. Clendenon has a fine colony of Michigan squirrels at his Broadway residence. Last fall he brought a number of squirrels from Michigan and installed them in the trees on his lawn. A pair survived the raids made by cats, dogs and kids, and now there are four squirrelkins added, and the new arrivals are too cute for anything.

Cemetery

2008-04-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
June 7, 1861

Among the most commendable acts of our present able and efficient City Council, not the least is that of fencing the Cemetery.
It had long been a source of mortification to many of our citizens, that within the extensive bounds of the city, no spot consecrated to the burial of the dead could be found where the remains of a departed relative or friend could be deposited with safety.
We think it hard when the force of circumstances makes it necessary to leave the mortal part of one we have loved and cherished to bleach and moulder in the wilds of some far off uninhabited region; and how bitter is the necessity which some times occurs, of committing to the deep sea and its monster inhabitants the once proud casement of a noble heart.
Our better feelings would always prompt us to bestow the last sad office upon the dead in a manner which would imply most fully the affection we entertain for the living. When no absolute necessity for it exists, there is then no excuse for any neglect to pay proper respect to the memory of the departed.
It must be a matter of gratulation with our citizens that Fulton is at last about to be relieved from the stigma of an unfenced, unadorned and neglected Cemetery. A project was set on foot two years ago, and through it, we believe the necessary funds for fencing the grounds were obtained, but for some reason, satisfactory no doubt to those who assumed the charge of the matter, the fence was never built, and those who contributed have never heard from their money. The Council have now very properly taken hold of the matter, and in a few days the Street Commissioner, Mr. Needbain, will have enclosed the grounds with a neat and substantial fence.
The location is on the highest ground in the city, commanding a view of the Mississippi River, Lyons, Clinton and the country for many miles in extent. If properly improved and beautified it can be made one of the finest Cemeteries in the West. It is to be hoped that those who have friends buried there, will co-operate with our city fathers in the good work they have begun, and that very soon full compensation in the way of improvements will be made for the neglect of the past.

Stolen Fruit

2008-04-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
February 26, 1875

"Stolen fruit is the sweetest." So thought young Haveerty on Sunday last, when he jumped on a cutter in which two pretty Lyons girls were taking a ride through Base street, in this city, and hooked a kiss from one of them. It was a daring attempt and one that should not be generally encouraged.

New Drinking Fountain

2008-04-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
April 23, 1915

The fountain which was donated to the city by Smaltz Brothers last fall is being erected on the corner near Robbins’ store today. The agreement was that the city should install the fountain in some convenient public place.
The fountain will stand thirty-eight inches high, the base is iron and the inside of the basin, which is about twelve inches in diameter, is of porcelain. It is in a place convenient for the public, and that cool stream of water continually flowing in the fountain will be appreciated by the people in hot weather.

Teen Boys

2008-04-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
January 23, 1880

A lot of boys ranging in years from ten to eighteen are wont to make night hideous by screeching and yelling like so many idiots and hyenas, by the ringing of doorbells, by talking rudely to passers by, by running in and out of church during divine service, and disturbing the peace in diverse ways. Now the JOURNAL has been furnished with a list of their names and the authorities, also; and if they don’t stop their transgressions, the JOURNAL will publish them and the authorities prosecute them. Boys’ places are in their homes after night.

Cowbells

2008-04-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
September 2, 1887

He is a bad man who will leave his cow in the street at night; but the man who will calmly and deliberately with malice perpense attach a big, harsh, clamorous bell to his hungry cow and turn her into the street at night, to feed and keep innocent people awake is a villain of the deepest dye. A first warder says there were two bovines decorated with bells in his ward Thursday night.

Bachelor Seeks Wife

2008-03-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal
March 28, 1916

BACHELOR WANTS A WIFE
Has Home All Furnished, But Is Too Busy and Bashful to Go Courting

The Journal had a caller the other day, a clean-looking, middle-aged bachelor, industrious and temperate. He said he owned his home, a comfortable cottage, and has a good job. Remarked that he was tired of living alone and wanted some nice woman, not too old, for a wife.
Had thought of advertising in THE JOURNAL, as he had been informed that there are a number of desirable women in Fulton out of a job and ready and willing to embark on the matrimonial sea. Did not like the idea of that kind of publicity in the important business of getting married, but did not know any other way to make his wants known. He works every working day for a railroad company and pulls down a good-sized check each pay day. Has no opportunity to get acquainted in the regular way laid down in books of etiquette, and besides is too bashful to easily get acquainted with the opposite sex. If the editor could only name a nice single woman who wanted a good home comfortably furnished, and a husband who would devote his life to making her happy and comfortable, he would be very thankful, for he was tired of coming home to a cold house after a day’s work and having to prepare his own meals, and sit around alone during the evening and then crawl into bed, thinking that his life was not as happy as it might be if he had a loving wife.
We could not think of any unengaged woman that would make a logical candidate, so told him to leave his address and we would publish some kind of an article that might result in a sort of a leap year proposal that would bring him a good wife.

Fulton Journal
March 31, 1916

CHANCE FOR FORLORN BACHELOR

Communication to The Journal Is Evidence that There Are Spinsters Who, Like Barkis, “Are Willin’.”

The last issue of THE JOURNAL contained a lengthy account of a big, busy, bashful bachelor which aroused much interest and caused no little tribulation among the eligible spinsters of Fulton and vicinity.
A public meeting was held which was attended by a number who might be induced to accept the proposal of marriage of the aforesaid b.b.b. bachelor.
After much discussion, a committee of three on “ways and means” was appointed. It was decided that, while the ladies this year possess the inalienable right to propose marriage to this or any other mature specimen of the genus homo who still retains his liberty, they do not intend to make any rash propositions to be followed by a possible suit for breach of promise until they have looked over the candidate who had the inclination to get married but lacked the sand or courage to bring about the great desideratum.
The consensus of opinion is: if he means business, let him make his pronunciamento, declare his intentions over his name, when, through the committee on ways and means, an opportunity will be afforded him to make the acquaintance of a score or more of favorably impressed damsels who will then abide by the decision when he reaches his ultimatum.

February Party

2008-02-29T08:01:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
February 27, 1875

A genuine good time was had by the Odd Fellows of this city and their invited brethren and friends on Monday evening, at Arfman's Hall, which made a fitting close to the observance of the anniversary of the birthday of the Father of his country. It was one of those parties that one takes pleasure in attending, and the recollection of which does not soon fade from the memory. The utmost sociability prevailed from the commencement to the hour for retiring, every one feeling that it was his or her duty to add something to enjoyment of the occasion. Dancing commenced at an early hour and was kept up with hearty zeal until 12 o'clock when Dr. Richey announced that supper was ready at Odd Fellows Hall, on River street, and it proved to be a most elegant and bountiful one. Returning, dancing was resumed and continued until--well, we don't know what hour, sufficiently long, however, to allow the boys to go home with the girls in the morning. The Abou Ben Adhem Lodge, No. 148, I.O.O.F., is increasingly rapidly in numbers, and has taken high rank as to strength and influence in this section of the West.

Dancing School

2008-02-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
October 6, 1870

Prof. Fanning will open his Dancing school in Arfman's Hall, Fulton, on next Saturday.
The Prof. has a large school in Cordova and also in Albany. Ladies attending school, and children will have their lesson from 4 1/2 to 6 p.m; gentlemen from 7 1/2 to 10 1/2. He proposes keeping school all winter. Ball Room, Church, Street, Parlor, House and Table etiquette a speciality. Terms, twenty-five cents for lessons for ladies and children; gentlemen, fifty cents per lesson. Advance pay required for first and second lessons only. We like that way of doing business. Prof. Fanning is also a first class violinist.

Christmas 1915

2008-02-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
December 21, 1915

Immediately after the dinner hour Christmas day, the Fultonian theater will be opened to the children and the show will be "The Fairy and the Waif." No admission will be charged, but each boy and girl will be asked to bring a potato or some other vegetable or little gift of fruit or candy, and after the show the things which the young folks bring will be given to needy families in the city.

1908 International Auto Race

2008-02-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
March 3, 1908

INTERNATIONAL AUTO RACE.

American Flyer in Lead Passed Fulton
Saturday Noon--French and Italian
Cars Went Through Sunday
Afternoon

The first machine in the great New York to Paris auto race was seen in Fulton Saturday at twelve o'clock noon when the big American car, the Thomas flyer, in charge of Montague Roberts, passed through town. The big racing car was met east of town by the handsome Lamb auto from the Clinton garage which led the way into Iowa.
The Thomas car left Morrison at 11:15 and made the run to Fulton a distance of twelve miles in forty-five minutes. The flyer is a monstrous machine with a huge sixty-horse power engine, and thus far has demonstrated that it is capable of battling against the roads that it will encounter on its long journey.
Those who comprise the crew of the car are Montague Roberts, the driver; George Schueter, engineer; John J. Williams, a representative of the New York Times; Richard Hatch, a representative of the Thomas company.
Upon their arrival in Clinton the occupants of the car were give a reception at the Lafayette Inn and at 1:40 p.m. left for the west, remaining over night at Clarence, covering a distance that day of over 110 miles.
Sunday afternoon at 8:05 the French car, DeDion, with Emanuel Lescares as driver passed through Fulton led by a Clinton auto. Forty-five minutes later the Zust, the Italian car, driven by Sirtori went through town without a pilot. Each of these cars made only a stop of two or three minutes in Clinton when they departed for the west.

Betsey Bennett's Hogs

2008-01-31T17:35:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: May 18, 1886

Last week Michael Callahan drove a number of Mrs. Betsey Bennett's hogs to the pound. This naturally displeased that lady and when she met Michael yesterday she upbraided him for his ungallant conduct. He replied somewhat warmly and Mrs. Bennett continued her reproaches, emphasizing her remarks with a brick bat which struck Michael under his off eye. The next thing was for Michael to swear out a warrant, which he did before Police Magistrate Plumley. Marshal Weber was unable to find Mrs. Bennett this morning but after dinner she came in and plead guilty to disturbing the peace and was fined $10 and costs. Mike's eye is pretty black.

Fulton's Connection to Stealing Lincoln's Body - Part 5

2008-01-27T17:16:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
November 24, 1876

GHOULS
Dastardly Attempt to Despoil the Lincoln Monument

Springfield, Ill., Nov 7. An attempt was made this evening to perpetrate one of the most infamous outrages which the mind of man can conceive of—that of stealing the bone and ashes of Abraham Lincoln. Unfortunately, the perpetrators escaped, leaving the evidences of their crime behind them, and though the clews are next to nothing, if human ingenuity can track them it will be done. Somehow or other nobody knows how, J.C. Power, the custodian of the Lincoln Monument, became impressed with the idea that there were designs upon the remains and communicated his suspicions to Mr. Sweet and Robert Lincoln. They could hardly believe that any one even the meanest and lowest scoundrels in the land, could conceive such a thing. However, to prevent the horse from getting out of the stable, they concluded to lock the door—to adopt precautions even should there be nothing in the feeling. Accordingly Sweet wrote Col. Steward, of this city, about two weeks ago, requesting him to station a guard at the monument. This was done, but no one came to disturb the corpse. Detective Tyrrell, of the United States Secret Service, whose headquarters are in Chicago, having business here, was requested by Sweet and Lincoln to see Mr. Power, and to look around town and watch for suspicious characters. He arrived here three or four days ago, and commenced a vigorous shadowing of several small hotels, but saw no one whom he recognized. This afternoon Mr. Power came into town in a hurry and hunted up Tyrrell and informed him that two very hard looking cases had been out to the cemetary looking around, and he felt assured that they were there for no good purpose. One registered as from Kenosha, and other registered from Racine, Wis. Their names are suppressed, since they have nothing to do with what occurred later. An effort will, of course, be made to find out who they are. Mr. Power, not being used to the detective work, could give but meager descriptions of them. The result of the interview with Tyrrell is unknown, but he must have concluded that election night was an excellent one in which to rob the tomb.
The evening’s train brought from Chicago ex-Chief of the Secret Service Elmer Washburne, who, it seems, had been requested by Sweet and Lincoln to come here and aid Tyrrell. About half-past 6 o’clock, Washburne, Tyrrell, and three other men went out to Oak Ridge and concealed themselves in Memorial Hall, inside the monument, to await developments. One man was posted in the labyrinth in the rear, so called because of walls running in different directions and making numerous passage-ways, these walls supporting the terrace. His object was to hear the noises made in the vault, if any were made. After patiently waiting for nearly three hours, and when about tired out from standing still, the utmost silence being imperative, he heard a grating noise, which lasted perhaps five minutes.—then, in a little while, came several successive thuds, as if some one was hammering. The time having arrived for action, Washburne and his men slipped out of the door with cocked revolvers in their hands, determined to shoot to kill if any resistance was made. Just as they were turning the corner the left one of the men accidentally exploded his revolver. The noise was very loud, so still were the surroundings, and unfortunately it was too loud, for, though there were but about 120 feet to go over, when the officers got to the door of the vault the dastardly villians were gone. They must have had some one watching to give them the signal of danger, or else had come outside for a breath of fresh air, and heard the snapping of the cap and ran into the woods which surrounded the monument. It is but a short distance, and a man could get within shelter and unobservable in a quarter of a minute. The men at once scattered and went into the direction the thieves had gone, and, while dodging behind the trees, two of them exchanged shots, each mistaking the other for one of the fugitives. After shooting at each other, they cried “Wash,” “Wash,” indicative of a friend in such an emergency, and then they found out their mistake. The bullets whizzed close to both, and it was miraculous that they escaped injury.
No traces of the thieves being discovered, the party returned to the catacomb, and there beheld a sight which made them sad. The body, as is known perhaps, is inclosed in a lead casket. This is surrounded by a cedar case, and in the receptacle of these is a sarcophagus. The latter had a double lid, the upper one not being as large as the other. Both had been pried off with a chisel or an ax, and somewhat chipped in the operation. The under lid was laid crosswise on the casket, the headpiece on the floor and the upper lid standing against the wall. The casket itself was pulled out about a foot from the body of the sarcophagus, and a small piece had been taken off on the floor, where were also an ax with the edge full of marble dust, an ordinary chisel, and a pair of nippers. The other tools had evidently been taken away since the lock on the iron-grated door had been sawed off.
It should, perhaps, be stated that the sarcophagus was in the catacomb and not in the crypt, being thus placed in order that visitors might see it. The damage done is comparatively little.
The officers, of course, were disappointed at not catching the vandals, but they think it is only a question of a little time when they will be apprehended.
Only one motive can be attributed to these despoilers of the grave, and that is the hope of a reward for the restoration of the remains. If they had succeeded in carrying them off, it certainly could not have been the intention to take away the casket, for it must weigh from 500 to 600 pounds, and half a dozen men could not have carried it to the fence to transfer it to a wagon in the road. It is more than likely that they intended to cut open the casket and gather up the bones and dust of the martyr-President and put them in a bag. What would have been the indignation of the country had this been done? The scheme concocted by these men is certainly unparalled in the history of crime and now there is evidence of minds so debased it is certain that measures will be taken to guard the monument and prevent further attempts. The facts given above did not come until early this morning, and are known to only a few, otherwise the outlook would have occupied as great a share of the attention of the community as the election. Words cannot express the feeling of those who do know it, and it is earnestly hoped that the double-distilled perpetrators of this attempted robbery of the remains of American’s most loved President will soon be brought to justice.

Fulton's Connection to Stealing Lincoln's Body - Part 4

2008-01-27T17:15:00.002-08:00

(This excerpt is taken from the new book by Thomas J. Craughwell about the plot to steal Abraham Lincoln's body.)

STEALING LINCOLN’S BODY
Thomas J. Craughwell
2007: p. 76

“Nelson Driggs was admitted to the state penitentiary in Joliet on February 16, 1876; Benjamin Boyd arrived two days later. Within days of their incarceration, Kennally devised a scheme that was as daring as it was devilish. He would steal the body of Abraham Lincoln from its tomb in Springfield, conceal it in some safe place, then cut a deal with the governor of Illinois to ransom it. As soon as Ben Boyd was released from jail, Kennally would return the body of the Great Emancipator.”

Fulton's Connection to Stealing Lincoln's Body - Part 3

2008-01-27T17:15:00.001-08:00

Fulton Journal:
February 18, 1876

Ben Boyd, the notorious counterfeiter, was sentenced by Judge Blodgett on Wednesday to pay a fine of $100 and be imprisoned in the Penitentiary at Joliet for ten years at hard labor. The Judge declined to give him a new trial.

Fulton's Connection to Stealing Lincoln's Body - Part 2

2008-01-27T17:13:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal:
November 5, 1875

The Counterfeiters

The interest created in our community by the arrest of Ben Boyd, the noted counterfeiter, and his wife, in this city, and their confederates in Centralia, is still maintained. We stated last week that Boyd and his wife had rented the old Wm. Kitchen house, and that it was there they were arrested. In this we were mistaken. The house they occupied is on the north side of Prairie street,(13th Avenue) and is a large two story and attic building owned by Dr. Reed. The two upon arriving at Chicago were taken before U.S. Commissioner Adams, where they waived an examination, and the commissioner held them to bail, to await action by the grand jury. Boyd was held in the sum of $30,000 and Mrs. Boyd in $15,000. Not being able to obtain parties who were willing to become responsible in such large amounts, they were sent to the Chicago jail where they will probably remain until their trial by the United States Court. The evidence against them is so perfectly overwhelming that they cannot fail of being speedily indicted, tried, and sentenced each to a long term at Joliet.
As the arrest of the counterfeiters, with those at Centralia, has been the most important that has occurred for years, the public are anxious to ascertain all about their lives and doings that can be furnished. The best sketch of Boyd’s and Drigg’s history that we have yet noticed appeared in the St.Louis Globe-Democrat of Tuesday last and which we herewith append;
Ben Boyd, as previously stated, is the engraver of the country. He was arrested at Davenport, Iowa, in 1859 or ’60 and sent to the Penitentiary at Fort Madison. At this time he was engaged in engraving plates for Jim Vessey and Charlie Hathaway, who were in this city, although the Hathaway family lived at Fort Madison. After his release from the Iowa Penitentiary, Boyd came to this city and operated for Sleight and Frisbie. He soon after went to Decatur, Ill., and married Allie Ackman, the oldest daughter of Mrs. John B. Trout, whose husband has done time in the Michigan Penitentiary, for counterfeiting of course. Boyd’s wife, who was captured with her husband at Fulton, on Thursday night, is a sister of Martha Ann Ackman, who is the wife of Pete McCartney, the great American briber, who believes in paying well for liberty when in the custody of men who “can be handled.” It was at the time of McCartney’s arrest by the Sheriff at Mattoon, Ill., in 1865, Col. Wood then being Chief of the Secret Service Department, that Ben got married. McCartney was in Springfield Jail, and Boyd acting as a stool-pigeon. He got out, and, in a few hours, was Pete’s brother-in-law. This Allie Ackman or Mrs. Boyd, rather, has a history. About the time of her marriage, she and Ed. Pierce were arrested at the Everett House, in this city, by Detective Eagan. In a traveling basket John found $25,000 in $50, $20, and $10 bogus bills, and $5,000 in scrip. Pierce was convicted, and sent to Jefferson for fifteen years, while Eagan turned the woman over to C.P. Bradley, head of the Secret Service Department at Chicago. Boyd couldn’t live without his girl, and succeeded in securing her release by “turning up;” that is, placing in the hands of the authorities plates for the face of all the bogus bills found at the time of her arrest. Boyd is probably as well known by the alias of ‘Charlie Mitchell.” He is undoubtedly the best letterer on steel in the country. It was he who engraved the $5 Traders’ of Chicago plate, which passed for a long time, even among bankers, without suspicion. Within the last year the name on this plate has been changed to the Boston Bank, the Canton Bank, and, within the last month, to the Aurora Bank, of Aurora, Ill., large numbers of which notes are now in circulation. Some four years ago he cut a $50 Treasury note plate, and he and Driggs flooded North Missouri with the counterfeits. It was Boyd, also, who manufactured the 50-cent Lincoln vignette plate which gave the Department so much trouble.
He learned the trade of an engraver in Cincinnati, under Nat Kenzie, who was in the counterfeiting business also, and is now in the Pennsylvania Penitentiary. Nat it was who cut the accurate $100 greenback plate in ’64, bills which defied detection by the most expert tellers. During fifteen or twenty years, Boyd has been connected with Doc Gorman, Tom Twitchell, and, in fact, all the noted counterfeiters. He has never been under arrest since his release from the Iowa Penitentiary, except in connection with McCartney, at Mattoon, as previously referred to, and five years afterward, when John Eagan arrested him at Venice and sent him to Springfield, where he again escaped.
On the 7th of March, 1861, John Eagan, at present doing duty at the Union Depot, was in the employ of the Secret Service Department, and looked upon as the most competent man in the West. On that day he added to his reputation by arresting Driggs, at the house of John Roe, on the north side of Morgan, between Eighteenth and Nineteenth streets. In his possession was found $282,000 in counterfeit money on different state banks, and twenty-one full sets of plates, besides press, inks, and bond paper enough to make millions of dollars, were found in the house. While Eagan, who was accompanied by Sergt. Frances and Dick Barry, had Driggs under arrest, his 18 year-old nephew, Henry Guthrie, alias Henry G. Henry, entered the house accompanied by a valise, which he carried. Both were seized and in the valise 25,000 $1 notes on a Cadiz, O., bank and $600 in gold were found. Materials to ‘raise’ bills were also found in a trunk in a house. As a result of this haul, no less than thirty-nine indictments were found against Driggs, and being allowed to plead guilty on a single count, he was sent to the Penitentiary to serve out a ten year term. His nephew, Guthrie, was also convicted and sentenced to six years imprisonment but before his time had expired Gov. Gamble pardoned him out.
Soon after Driggs’ release from the Missouri pen, he went to Louisville and sold goods for a short time. He then returned to this city, hunted up Boyd, and in November 1871, they went to Nauvoo, Ill., taking up their residence at the house of Louis Sleight. “Nelse” who must now be over 70 years of age, originally came from Ohio, where he was in early life a well-to-do merchant, controlling almost the entire trade of five counties, and looked upon as high respectable. He has been dealing in “coney” for the last thirty-five years, and served a term in the Illinois Penitentiary, before it was removed from Alton, for having been found with plates in his possession. Twenty-five or thirty years ago Driggs was connected with Jerry Cowden, and Oscar Finch, the noted Eastern counterfeiters, and his cronies in the West have been such men as Louis Sleight, now dead, John Frisbie, Pete McCartney, John Vessey, Charlie Hathaway, Nat Kinsey, Dr. Parker, and Lou Dollman, who was shot and killed by Chief Harrington in this city, 1866. In 1856 or ’57, Driggs made his headquarters at Metropolis, Ill., near Cairo, having for partners Sleight and Frisblel who subsequently moved to Nauvoo, where Frisble’s brother was killed in an altercation on a boat. Driggs was the moneyed man of the party. Milt, alias “Doctor” Parker was another of the gang, and he is now serving out a term in the Eastern Pennsylvania Penitentiary, under the name of Edwards, having been arrested and convicted in Philadelphia last year. During the War, Parker, Frisbie and Sleight were taken to the Old Capital Prison, and kept there for some time.
Those arrests are looked upon as of the utmost importance, for the reason that, with Boyd’s incarceration, the supply of plates will be cut off, and Driggs will not be on the outside to negotiate the disposal of ‘coney’ as only he can. Chief Washburn has accomplished wonders since his appointment to the head of Secret Service Department, and these arrests are the crowning success of his career.

Fulton's Connection to Stealing Lincoln's Body - Part 1

2008-01-27T17:12:00.000-08:00

Ben Boyd: Counterfeiter

Fulton Journal: October 29, 1875

NABBED AT LAST

A Noted Counterfeiter and his Lady Arrested in Fulton,
and More of the Gang in Centralia.

On or about the 25th of September a man giving his name as B. Wilson arrived in this city on the steamer Diamond Jo, of the Diamond Jo Line, from LeClaire, a town about twenty miles down the river. He brought with him four boxes of household goods, two mattresses, one beadstead, a bundle of carpet, a bundle of pipe, a sewing machine, stove and six chairs. Nothing unusual, the reader will say, about these goods, if the man was a housekeeper. Certainly not, simply considered as a housekeeper’s outfit, but it will be seen further on in this article that there was something unusual in the boxes at least. When he came to sign the receipt for the goods at Startzman’s Warehouse his hurry to get them away was so great as to attract the attention of Mr. Chas. B. Startzman, the clerk, who asked him if he was just moving into town, to which he replied that he was, and that he had rented a house of Dr. Reed. He further said that he would remain in town during the winter, looking for a farm, as he desired to purchase one in the vicinity, but when told that there were a couple of men in the office having farms for sale, replied that he had no time to talk farms then. He was plainly dressed, but his heavy gold watch chain, and an abundance of gold rings, together with his general personal appearance denoted him to be something else than a farmer.
His goods were removed to the old Wm. Kitchen house, now owned by Dr. Reed, on Prairie street and shortely afterwards a woman, said to be his wife, and a second man, arrived, and the three appearently settled down to housekeeping. They had hardly got their stove in order however, as it was noticed, before a green curtain was placed at each window, and from that time until Friday of last week, these curtains were always down. This did not create any particular notice at first, but as days went by the same thing continued it began to excite remark. The men were very seldom seen out of doors, the woman doing most of the trading and marketing. One or two of the ladies in the neighborhood, we are informed, paid friendly calls, but their advances were evidently not well received, and were consequently discontinued. The man who rented the house of Dr. Reed gave his names as D.F. Wilson, and told the Doctor at the time that his family consisted of himself and wife, and an invalid man. He wanted the house only until Spring when he intended to buy a farm and settle down upon it. On Thursday forenoon of last week a month’s rent was paid, but by a different man than the one who originally hired the house. On the afternoon of that day United States Detective P.P. Tyrrell, and two other officers called at the house quite unexpectedly to the inmates upon an errand of importance to the Government, and after a rather unceremoneous introduction Mr. Benjamin Boyd, alias Boynton, alias B. Wilson, alias D.F. Wilson, and his wife Almirinda were arrested as counterfeiters, the second man and the one probably who paid the rent to Dr. Reed, escaping. The man wanted, however was secured and when taken was in the act of completing a $20 bill. As soon as the parties were arrested the Detectives commenced searching for plates and other apparatus for counterfeiting and for such qualities of the “queer” as had been stricken off which the house afforded. As near as we can learn, completed plates of $100 and $1000 bills were found, and about $7,000 of counterfeit money. The plates showed evidence of the highest skill in engraving, and the money, partly $100 greenbacks and the balance notes of several National Banks, so well executed as to deceive the best experts. At 4 o’clock the same afternoon, the officers took their prisoners, and the plates and bogus money, to the Western Union Depot, and secured passage for Springfield, supposing then that Fulton was in the Middle District of Illinois, and that the prisoners would have to be taken before the U.S. Commissioner at that City. On arriving at the depot, Boyd telegraphed to a confrere “Bob is dead,” a way these fellows have undoubtedly of informing each other when they are arrested.
Boyd gave his age to the officers as 41, and his wife’s 30. The latter is a sister of the notorious Pete McCartney, a gentleman of large ability in the counterfeiting line, but the officers state that Boyd’s steel plates show finer work than those of McCartney’s ever did. Boyd, it is said, has been an engraver from his youth up, and stands now second to none in the art. It will therefore be seen that his capture is one of great importance. He is an old offender, and was pardoned out of the Illinois Penitentiary by Gov. Palmer in 1872, but has been steadily at work on the queer since. The house selected by him for his operations in this city was well adapted for the purpose, being isolated, and the rooms in the second story affording excellent opportunity for quiet work. Finding that Fulton was in the Northern District of Illinois, Detective Tyrrell by order of his chief, Washburn, transferred them to Chicago where they are at present awaiting action by the United States authorities.
On the same day that Boyd and his lady were arrested here, Elmer Washburn, Chief of the United States Secret Service, with some officers connected with his department, succeeded in arresting at Centralia, a Mr. and Mrs. Stautfelt, alias Statlaw and a Mrs. Carroll, alias Driggs, also engaged in the business of counterfeiting, and with whom it appears Boyd was connected. Two more of the party were afterwards arrested a little out of Centralia, who proved to be Carroll, alias Driggs, and his wife’s brother. When captured, Carroll had between $200 and $300 counterfeit money on his person. He is an old offender, and is believed to be the party who, a short time ago, published and uttered the counterfeits on the Traders’ National Bank of Chicago, the Paxton National Bank, Canton National Bank, First National Bank of Aurora, and the First National Bank of Peru. The premises at Centralia were searched and a press, paper, numbering machine, type, and a complete outfit for counterfeiting found. The engraved plates found among this lot were the handiwork of Boyd. Indeed, it appears that Boyd was the director general or head center of the whole gang and that it was his intention to establish his headquarters in Fulton. On Friday last the officers continued their search in and around Centralia, and were rewarded by unearthing six boxes of the queer in the woods about eight miles from that place, aggregating about $150,000 in fifty cent fractional currency and $5 national banknotes on the banks above named, and $1,000 in fifty dollar national bank notes. The fractional currency had the Stanton and Dexter heads, but was finished on one side only, and printed on regular fiber paper. Two rolls of bank note paper were also found. Warrants for other parties have been taken out, as it is thought the ramifications of the gang extend throughout the State.
The detectives have shown great skill in the manner in which they have worked up the case, and the public congratulate them on their success in capturing the noted offenders. Had not this been done, it is but reasonable to suppose that this section of the West would have been flooded with counterfeit money during the winter.

Fishing Trip

2008-01-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

Fulton Jouornal
May 21, 1915

THREE-DAY FISHING TRIP

To Wisconsin's Great North Woods and Lake Region (Over Decoration Day)

Leave Chicago Friday, May 28th, six p.m. on the Fisherman's Special from the Chicago & North Western railway terminal, and return the following Tuesday morning. Go early--get the benefit of the year's best fishing. Make your sleeping car reservations now.
Free booklets with maps and full particulars, Ticket agents, Chicago & North Western railway.

Fulton Flower Thieves

2008-01-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal
June 8, 1915

Flower thieves are something despicable. Several citizens have had their flower gardens raided and peonies, roses and other blooms have been snatched off and carried away. There are some kids in Fulton who have no respect for the property or rights of the people, and a dose of strap oil vigorously applied might check them in their lawlessness.

The Green Family

2008-01-14T18:54:00.000-08:00

A private residence (corner Short & Cherry) near de Immigrant dates from the Civil War. It was owned by the Green family, prominent Fulton merchants, with stores at 1100 & 1102 4th Street.

Fulton Journal: September 25, 1917.

CHANGE IN GREEN COTTAGE
Historical Residence Centrally Located Greatly improved—Now of Bungalow Type

The Green homestead residence on the corner of Second street and Tenth avenue, now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Than Green and Mrs. Cornelia Green, is one of the historical homes of Fulton. Built of brick, it was constructed over a half a century ago and is among the attractive home-like residences of our city. Here the late Richard Green, a pioneer merchant of Fulton, resided until his death about twenty years ago. He was a good business man of genial qualities and strict integrity and founded the mercantile firm of R. Green & Sons, the only one wherein there is still an active member that was doing business in Fulton when the editor of the Journal came here to enter upon newspaper work thirty-six years ago this month. We refer to W.C. Green. It is a remarkable truth that the entire business of a town like Fulton passes from old hands into new in from thirty to thirty-five years,.
From a copy of a city directory of Fulton published in 1857 that contained the names of about 500 men who were residents of Fulton, but one is still living in the old town, namely, Harvey Mitchell. The others have all moved away or passed to that bourn from which no traveler ever returns.
The Green homestead has been greatly improved on the exterior by a new heavy cornice and two new rustic porches which give it an attractive bungalow appearance. The walls are to have a coat of kellastone which will add to its charming exterior.

Four months later, Cornelia Geen was dead.

Fulton Journal, December 25, 1917.

DEATH OF MRS. CORNELIA GREEN
Resident of Fulton and Vicinity for over Seventy-Nine Years

Mrs. Cornelia P. Green, widow of Richard Green a pioneer merchant of Fulton, who established the mercantile firm of R. Green & Sons, over a half century ago, and a continuous resident of Fulton for sixty-four years, died suddenly at about eight o’clock Sunday morning, December 23.
Mrs. Green was over eighty-one years old and one of very few of the early settlers of western Whiteside county that came here in 1838.
She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Johnson, one of a family of twelve children, of whom but two survive, Mrs. Anna M. Reed of Kentwood, La., and Caleb C. Johnson of Sterling.
Mrs. Green, although eighty-two years old, yet she was at the store of R. Green & Sons Friday and Saturday, interested in the display of holiday goods, and although her health had been poor for some time owing to weak heart action, she was thought to be improving. Sunday morning she arose at an early hour to give some instructions about breakfast, as her grandson and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight P. Green of Chicago, were at the home as guests for the Christmas holidays, and returned to her room about 7:30, and when a member of the family went to call her for breakfast, she had passed from this life and was lying in her bed as if she were sleeping. It was the peaceful close of a busy, useful life of a good and kind-hearted woman, beloved by all who knew her.
She is survived by her son, Nathaniel Green, with whom she had made her home since the death of Richard Green over twenty years ago; a daughter, Mrs. L.P. Raley, whose home is in La Crosse, Wis.; also a step-son, William C. Green, senior member now of the firm of R. Green & Sons.
The funeral will be held at the old home on the corner of Second street and Tenth avenue Wednesday at ten o’clock, and the services will be conducted by Rev. K.J. McAulay, pastor of the Presbyterian church.

Fulton Journal: December 28, 1917

Funeral of Mrs. Green

The funeral of Mrs. Cornelia P. Green, who died suddenly Sunday morning at the home of her son and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Green, was held Wednesday forenoon at ten o’clock at the house. In respect to the memory of Mrs. Green, who had passed nearly all of her life in this city, all of the business houses were closed during the hour of services which was from ten to eleven o’clock.
The services, which were conducted by Rev. K.J. McAulay, included a tribute to the noble life and fine character of the deceased and in which he spoke words of consolation and comfort to the bereaved ones. During the services Miss Harriet C. Bell beautifully sang two hymns, “Asleep in Jesus’ and “Abide with Me.” The floral offerings were beautiful and most numerous.
The attendance at the services was large.
Those from a distance who were present at the funeral were Mr.and Mrs. L. P. Raley of La Crosse, Wis., C. C. Johnson and son Jesse and son of Sterling, Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Green of Laramie, Wyo., and Mrs. and Mrs. W.G. Bierd of Chicago.
Those who attended the casket and escorted it to the Fulton cemetery where the body was laid to rest were Fred K. Bastian, A.C. Williamson, J.C. Snyder, G. B. Robinson, Jenkins McCullagh and Peter Lorenzen.

Fulton Journal: December 19, 1922

NATHANIEL GREEN IS DEAD
Stricken Down Near His House Saturday Afternoon and
Passed Away a Few Minutes Later

Nathaniel Green, a life-long resident of Fulton and for nearly fifty years an active and influential business man, died suddenly at his home on Second street and Tenth avenue Saturday afternoon at about two o’clock. He had gone out into the yard and shortly after was found lying on the ground, still breathing, by his wife, who called for assistance and Peter Brondyke and Ed Jaarsma came from the jitney station and carried him into the house where he expired a few minutes later.
An inquest was held by Coroner Frye of Sterling Monday afternoon, with the following citizens as jurors: A.S. Chapman, foreman; David Shipma, W.M. Slaymaker, Matt Hansen, Ed Temple, and Claus Bruins.
The verdict was that death was caused by acute myrocarditis, or heart disease.
Nathaniel Green was born in Fulton August 14, 1855, hence was in the sixty-eighth year of his age. He married Miss Elizabeth Baker, daughter of the late John W. Baker, one of the first settlers in Fulton. Mrs. Green and son, Dwight P. Green of Winnetka, are the surviving members of the family. Over forty years ago Mr. Green became a partner in the pioneer mercantile firm of R Green & Sons, with his father, the late Richard Green and his half-brother, W.C. Green. The store is known all over the western part of Whiteside county, and has been a successful business enterprise during its long history.
The sudden death of Nathaniel Green removes one of the best known business men of this city and in his long mercantile career he had won respect for his high character and integrity as a citizen. He was esteemed for his genial personality and kind impulses, and hundreds of people to this section will learn of his death with deep sorrow. A devoted husband, a kind father, a generous and noble-minded friend, a public-spirited and conscientious citizen has been called from a life of usefulness, and his death not only causes profound sorrow to relatives and friends, but it is also a great loss to the community, and he will be sadly missed and his death sincerely mourned.
The funeral was held at the Presbyterian church Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. E.P. Westphal, pastor of the church, conducting the services, which were largely attended. All the stores and offices in the city were closed this afternoon during the hours of the funeral, and all the business and professional men attended as honorary pall-bearers. The interment was in the family lot in the Fulton cemetery.

FUNERAL OF NATHANIEL GREEN
Was Held Tuesday Afternoon—Services in Presbyterian Church—Burial in Fulton Cemetery

The obsequies attending the burial of Nathaniel Green were held Tuesday afternoon. The attendance included many relatives and friends and a large number of the business men of this city and other citizens and the floral offerings were numerous and remarkably beautiful
The funeral cortege formed at the house at 2:15 and proceeded to the Presbyterian church, where the services at 2:30 were conducted by Rev. E.P. Westphal. During the services, Miss Harriet C. Bell and Mrs. John K. Lorenzen sang two beautiful selections: “I Know My Heavenly Father Knows” and “One Sweetly Solemn Thought.”
A large number of Fulton’s business and professional men were honorary pall-bearers. The active pall-bearers were J.E. Temple, John Voss, Ralph Wilkens, George J. Strating, M.F. Bielema, William Dornbush, W.T. Huizenga, and Walter Machamer, all of whom had been clerks under Mr. Green.
The funeral cortege then proceeded to the cemetery where all that was mortal of a good man was consigned to the last resting place.

Fulton Journal: October 4, 1929:

Excerpt from the obituary of W.C. Green.

William Clark Green was born in Bono, Lawrence County, Ind., September 8, 1843, the son of Richard and Martha Mason Green. When he was a year old his mother passed away, and for about six years he was cared for by his Uncle Nathaniel and Aunt Elizabeth Green. He came to Fulton with them when he was a small boy, the family living in what is now the residence of the Misses Prochaska on Twelfth avenue. His father moved his stock of goods from his store in Bono, Ind., to Fulton in 1849, thus becoming a pioneer merchant of this place.
W.C. Green attended the Fulton public schools and the Fulton Military school, but he was ever a student, continuing his education through life, books and magazines being his friendly instructors.
For a time as a young man he was employed as a clerk in the Pitkin Pease general store, which was located on the corner where the Walter building now stands. In 1865, his father resumed the mercantile business after a few years spent in another line of work and subsequently took his sons into partnership. They conducted the business at the corner of what is now Lincoln Way and Eleventh avenue under the firm name of R. Green and Sons, a name so closely linked with the business interests of Fulton for so many years it cannot soon be forgotten. The firm name remained the same after the death of the father, and until 1923, six years ago, when after the death of Nathaniel Green, one of the sons, the store was sold and W.C. Green retired from active business pursuits after fifty-eight years of successful mercantile service.
On October 10, 1866, Mr. Green was united in marriage with Alice Amelia Roberts, daughter of Elisha and Naomi Roberts of Fulton, whose home was the building now used as Odd Fellows hall. They were privileged to live together for sixty-three happy years, during which time Mrs. Green was her husband’s loyal helpmate, interested in all that interested him. To them were born a son, Alfred E., now vice chairman of the board of the Detroit and Security Trust Company of Detroit, Mich., and a daughter, Lutie May, now Mrs. C.N. Harrison, wife of Dr. Harrison of Fulton.
Mr. Green is survived by his wife, his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Green of Detroit, his daughter and her husband, Dr. and Mrs. C.N. Harrison of Fulton, his sister, Mrs. L.P. Raley of Fulton, and two grandsons, William M. and Richard A. Green of Detroit. His parents, a sister, Margaret, and a brother, Nathaniel, preceded him in death.
Mr. Green never joined a fraternal organization, but was a member of the old First Baptist church of Fulton. After this church ceased to exist, Mr. Green and his wife attended the Presbyterian church and for many years were identified with its activities. His greatest interest centered in his home and family, and the sorrowing members of his family have the sympathy of the community.

Fulton Journal: June 25, 1937

Excerpts from Obituary for Sarah Baker Green

Sarah Elizabeth Baker, daughter of John W. and Mary Hall Wright Baker, was born in Garden Plain Township, November 28, 1857, and passed away after a brief illness in Jane Lamb hospital, Wednesday night, June 16, 1937. She was the last surviving member of a family of ten children. Her great uncle, John Baker, was the first white settler in Fulton, coming here from Centerville, Maryland in 1835.
Her father, a nephew of John Baker, came from Centerville in December, 1836, and the following year he was joined by her mother, the first white woman to come to Fulton. After two years here they moved to Garden Plain, where they engaged in farming. The old homestead is still known as “The Baker Place”.
Elizabeth Baker, the subject of this sketch, after completing her education taught school for a time and then coming to Fulton she, with a relative, engaged in the dressmaking business.
On May 24, 1884, she was married to Nathaniel Green, a young business man in Fulton, the ceremony taking place in the Garden Plain home. They took up their residence in Fulton, their home for the remainder of their lives. One son, Dwight Phelps Green, was born to them. The happy family circle was broken on December 16, 1922, when the husband and father was suddenly taken by death. Bravely and undauntedly Mrs. Green carried on upheld by her Christian faith and encouraged by her son, then an attorney in Chicago.
Mrs. Green is survived by her devoted son, Dwight, of Winnetka, whose home comings were her greatest joy. He was with her at the hospital during the few days of her illness and his presence gave her comfort.
Also surviving is her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Dwight Green, who is convalescing from a serious illness and so was unable to attend the funeral. She also is mourned by a grandson, Dwight P. Green, Jr., who this week was graduated from Princeton University; a niece, Mrs. Lutie Green Harrison of Fulton; a nephew, Albert E. Green of Detroit, Mich.; a niece, Mrs. Percy Robinson of Denver, Colo. several cousins and a legion of friends.

Baker Family: Fulton

2008-01-01T10:48:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: January 15, 1864

Mr. John Baker was born in the State of Maryland on the 6th day of August, 1801, and was consequently in his 63d year when he died. He was the youngest of twelve children, all of whom he survived.

He was married in his native State, and had two children; one of them died in infancy, and the other is a resident of this state. While yet a comparatively young man he was called to lay his beloved wife in the tomb, and was thus made to drink of that cup, than which none is more bitter.

After his wife’s death he determined to gratify his natural enterprise and energy in travel, and seeking himself a home in the then far west. His footsteps were directed to this county—then inhabited solely by Indians and he located himself near Albany in 1833, the year after the Black Hawk War-the first white man who settled in this county.

Not long after he removed to this town and opened a farm where he resided on the side hill near the Cat Tail bridge, and where he married her who now sits solitary in her widowhood.

The following paragraph is taken from a pamphlet entitled “Sketches of the early history and c. of Fulton.

“The first effort for a town at this point was made by Mr. John Baker of Maryland in the year 1836. This gentleman had then been in the county some three years residing a few miles below on the banks of the Mississippi. During that time he employed himself in seeking a locality which might be favorable as a permanant settlement with a prospect of advancing to something of real importance. It at length became apparent to his mind that the narrows of the Mississippi at no distant period, would become the site of a city. He resolved therefore to here sit his stakes and make a beginning.

At this time the Winnebago Indians occupied large and populous villages near- by.—In the following year, however, they removed to their new homes across the Mississippi in accordance with their late treaty. The deep trodden tracks of the Indian pony and the marks of Indian corn hills are still visible.—Soon sites Mr. Baker had determined to make a strike here, he drew up a claim for the ground on which Fulton now stands.

About 14 years ago Mr. Baker moved from this place to Lockport near Joliet and there resided until some four years since, when he returned to this town.

In 1850, leaving his family behind, he went to California, and was gone about three years. In consequence of the state of his health he has been obliged since the removal of his family here to travel much of the time, far in the interior of the continent, where he might find a clearer and dryer atmosphere.

He returned from his last tour late in the past Autumn, and after a few weeks was seized with a violent attack of ‘Typhoid Pneumonia’ which notwithstanding all that medical skill and the assiduous attention and nursing of affectionate friends could do, ran its rapid course, and on the evening of the 23rd Dec., last, his mortal life was extinct.

Mr. Baker was a man of sterling qualities. Possessed of an indomitable will, difficulties only proved the incentives to increased energy and effort. Of the adventurous spirit, he hesitated not to throw himself /////and circumstances from which more timid souls would shrink. Somewhat stern in his manner and appearance, he bore within a warm and genial heart which endeared him to those who knew him.

Reserved with strangers, he was sufficiently frank and confiding to friends. Possessed with a high sense of honor, he scorned that which was mean.

He was no intermeddler with other men’s matters and had a great faculty of minding his own business.

Long then will his memory remain green in the ????of those that knew him.

Fulton Journal: Centennial Edition: July 5, 1935

The First Settler
By Dwight P. Green

John Baker was the first settler in Fulton, whence he came in 1835, via New Orleans, from Centerville, on the east shore of Maryland. Driven from the south by the cholera epidemic, he proceeded up the Mississippi, stopping first at Rock Island, which was then a Fort. After a brief stay on the Meredocia, he selected the Cattail, near the George Ingwersen farm, for the site of his permanent home, and there built his log cabin, which was the first in the locality of Fulton. It is said that his selection of this site was prompted by his recognition that here were the “Narrows” of the Mississippi, which would afford an easy crossing in the future. Later events proved the accuracy of his vision. Concerning his home on the Cattail, many stories of early hospitality to overland travelers have been recorded.

Here Mr. Baker lived alone for a year, except for friendly Indians in the neighborhood and occasional travelers passing by. In December 1836, he was joined by his nephew, John W. Baker, aged twenty-four, who came overland from Centerville, Md., via Chicago, which he passed by as an unpromising swamp.

In the following year, John W. Baker was joined by his wife, whom he had left in Centerville until he had completed his explorations in the west. Her name before marriage was Mary Hall Wright. At the age of twenty, she left her family and comfortable circumstances in Maryland to join her husband in establishing their home on the frontier. She was the first white woman in the locality of Fulton. She came overland to the Ohio River, thence by steamboat down the Ohio and up the Mississippi to Rock Island, where she was met by her husband and escorted to the cabin on the Cattail.

In the following year came John W.’s three sisters: Frances, who in 1837 married Mr. Edmond Rolfe, and thus became the first bride in Fulton; Rosena, who became Mrs. Jacob Parker, long a resident of Garden Plain; and Martha, who married Mr. George LaShelle. Miss Elizabeth Skinner, a niece, also accompanied the party of sisters. Hers was the first death in Fulton. She was buried on a high bluff, north of the settlement.

John Baker, the first settler, acquired by Government grant, the land on which Fulton was later built. He continued to live in Fulton until 1850, when the lure for further pioneering and the gold fever took him overland to California. Following his return, he made several trips by “prairie schooners” to Colorado, accompanied by sons of John W. Baker, some of whom continue to make their homes in the west in the same pioneer spirit that had been displayed by their parents in Illinois.

John Baker married, as his second wife, Mrs. Ellen Humphrey, who was the grandmother of Dwight Phelps of Tacoma, Washington, and Mrs. Hattie Robinson, formerly of Fulton, now deceased. John Baker died in Fulton in 1863.

John W. Baker opened the first store in Fulton and built the first frame building on the corner of what was then Base and Ferry streets, the center of the settlement (now Fourth street and Seventh avenue). While in Fulton he held several public offices. He later moved to Garden Plain, where he spent the remainder of his active life as a farmer. He died in 1882. Mrs. Baker died in 1883. Ten children were born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Baker of which the only survivor is Mrs. Elizabeth Green, of Fulton. Children of Albert Baker, deceased son of Mr. and Mrs. John W. Baker are living in the west, and children of Thomas Baker, another deceased son, are living in northern California.

Fulton Journal: November 18, 1878

THE LATE MRS. J. BAKER
Selections from a sermon by Rev. D.E. Wells, at the funeral of Mrs. John Baker, held in the Presbyterian church, in Fulton, on Sunday, November 3, 1878.

Dear mourners and friends, we are summoned to give heed to the lessons taught by the providence of God which has removed a venerated relative neighbor and friend.

When persons so far advanced in years as was the deceased, is removed from us by death, a very natural desire is felt upon occasions like this, to learn something of their early history. Especially is this true, if it is known that they were among the earliest pioneers or settlers in the locality in which we live. For the purpose of gratifying this desire, I will state that our venerable friend whose remains lie before us was born on the third of December, in the year 1795, in Canton, Conn., which is about twelve miles from the city of Hartford. She was therefore nearly 83 years of age. In the vicinity of her early home, she was married to a Mr. Humphrey. Their family numbered six children of whom four died in early childhood; one named Eunicia, died at the age of 22 years and was buried in our cemetery; the last surviving child was Mrs. Ellen Phelps, whose death at the age of 51 years, we were called to mourn a little over a year ago. Being left a widow when somewhat over thirty years of age, she removed from Conn., with her family, in the year 1839 to Elkhorn in the eastern part of this State, where some of her relatives resided. In the following year, 1840, she was married to John Baker whose name is associated with the earliest settlement of this town. They occupied a house for about one year which stood up on the site of the present residence of Mr. Lucius Kinney on the further declivity of the hill in the eastern part of the city.

At that time, but very few dwellings had been erected here. I know of but five persons now living in this town who were located here at that time, viz; Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Reed, Mr. McCoy, Mr. G. Rice, and Mr. J.W. Baker. Rev. J.H. Prentiss a Home Missionary of the Congregational church, was located here at that time, holding religious services at private houses in neighboring townships in this State and in Iowa. From about the year 1841 to the year 1848, the family of the deceased lived in a house near Langford & Hall’s lumber mill which was recently taken down and removed. That house, was, in a sense, the birth place of the church, of which the deceased was so long a member. In it, on the 18th of December 1845, under the presiding offices of Rev. Wm. Reed of Davenport, the first Congregational church of Fulton and Lyons was organized. Of that organization, the Presbyterian church of Fulton is the successor, as shown in the Centennial sermon preached in this pulpit a little over two years ago. In the year 1848, Mr. Baker removed his family to Lockport, near Joliet in this state where they remained until the year 1860, when they returned to this city and took up their residence in the brick house which stands opposite the Baptist church. Mr. Baker died in the year 1863, so that our departed friend was left again a widow at the age of 68 years.

Mrs. Baker’s connection with the church as a professed Christian dates back to an early period in her life, though her membership with this church was not formed until July 22, 1860, under the ministry of Rev. Mr. Leonard. During the last eight years of Rev. Mr. Leonard’s, the four years pastorate of Rev. Henry Kelgwin, and the six and half since then, the life of this venerated friend to whose worth we are assembled to pay our grateful tribute of appreciation, has been that of one who though humbly conscious of her own imperfection and unworthiness in the sight of God, maintained a life of prayerful consecration to her Lord and Master. When I took charge of this church, five years and two months ago, it was not expected that she would survive but a short time.

Fulton Journal: July 14, 1882:

John W. Baker of Garden Plain, died at his residence on Saturday, July 8th, in the 71st year of his age. The funeral was held in the church at Garden Plain on Sunday and many of our citizens attended. Mr. Baker was a native of Maryland and was born in 1812. He moved west in 1836 and located near the present site of Fulton, but in 1843 he purchased a tract of land in Garden Plain township where he has since resided. He was widely known and had held many local offices of trust. A strong and zealous temperance worker, he was respected and esteemed by a large circle of the citizens of the county.

Fulton Journal: March 30, 1883:

Mrs. Mary Baker, widow of the late John W. Baker, of Garden Plain, died at her residence in Fulton on Wednesday afternoon, in the 70th year of her age. The funeral services were held at the house this forenoon, the Rev. N.D. Graves officiating, and the body was taken to the Garden Plain cemetery for her burial. The deceased was married to J.W. Baker, whom she survived but a few months, in Maryland, in 1833 and three years latter came to Whiteside county where she has since resided.

Fulton Journal: April 30, 1915

Albert J. Baker is Dead

Mrs. Nathaniel Green Thursday received a telegram from Denver, Colo., stating that her brother, A.J. Baker died that morning at his home in that city. Albert J. Baker was born in Gardenplain seventy-three years ago, and was a son of John W. Baker and the grandnephew of John Baker, the first settler in the town of Fulton. During the Civil war he attended school in the Western Union college in this city, and nearly fifty years ago went west and located in Denver, where he established a large brick manufacturing plant and for many years was engaged in that business. He leaves his wife, two sons and two daughters.

Fulton Journal: June 25, 1937
OBITUARY

Sarah Elizabeth Baker, daughter of John W. and Mary Hall Wright Baker, was born in Garden Plain Township, November 28, 1857, and passed away after a brief illness in Jane Lamb Hospital, Wednesday night, June 16, 1937. She was the last surviving member of a family of ten children. Her great uncle, John Baker, was the first white settler in Fulton, coming here from Centerville, Maryland, in 1835.

Her father, a nephew of John Baker, came from Centerville in December, 1836, and the following year he was joined by her mother, the first white woman to come to Fulton. After two years here they moved to Garden Plain, where they engaged in farming. The old homestead is still known as “The Baker Place”.

Elizabeth Baker, the subject of this sketch, after completing her education taught school for a time and then coming to Fulton she, with a relative, engaged in the dressmaking business. On May 24, 1884, she was married to Nathaniel Green, a young business man of Fulton, the ceremony taking place in the Garden Plain home. They took up their residence in Fulton, their home for the remainder of their lives. One son, Dwight Phelps Green, was born to them. The happy family circle was broken on December 16, 1922, when the husband and father was suddenly taken by death. Bravely and undauntedly Mrs. Green carried on upheld by her Christian faith and encouraged by her son, then an attorney in Chicago.

After the Poultry

2007-11-06T17:49:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: February 15, 1884

R.P. Considine was going home Tuesday night and met a couple suspicious looking men. He watched them and saw one of them enter John Stuart’s hennery about 11 o’clock. He awoke Mr. Stuart and they captured Cornelius Mosher, with a sack in which was a duck. Moser was locked up for the night, and Wednesday morning was examined before Justice Terwilliger for burglary under the law of 1877. He could not give $500 bonds and so J.W. Farley, constable, took him to the county jail for safe keeping. Mosher is a hard looking citizen more than fifty years old. He had colored his hair but the gray was visible. He came to Fulton last Fall and has made his home with Chris. Rheinhart, who bears a bad reputation. It was probably Rheinhart who was with him at the time and has not materialized since.

Paving Brick Arrived

2007-11-06T17:34:00.001-08:00

Fulton Journal: September 17, 1915

FIRST BLOCK OF FULTON’S NEW PAVING WILL BE LAID SATURDAY

Four carload of Purrington brick arrived today over the C., B., & Q. and tomorrow the first brick of Fulton’s new street paving will be laid at the corner of Ninth avenue and First street.
Nearly three hundred feet of concrete foundation has been spread along First street, and allowing this forty-eight hours to harden, the paving work can then be begun.
The brick is the Purrington standard, a vitrified paving block, nine inches long, four inches deep and three and one-half inches in thickness, with edges rounded to a radius of three-sixteenths of an inch. The joints are to be filled with sand, on a two-inch sand cushion upon a four inch concrete base.

1887: Fulton Fire Department

2007-11-06T17:16:00.000-08:00

Fulton Journal: Jan. 28, 1887

The only appliance that the city has for fighting fire, an old hook and ladder cart and outfit, has been standing out in the snow for several weeks. We do not believe that there is another town of the size of Fulton in the U.S. that would be as completely helpless in case of a fire as it would. If there should be a fire in any of the business blocks all that could be done would be to get out what goods there was time to save and let the property burn. If the wind should carry a fire into the lumber yard and mills all would be lapped up. And in that case the people here might as well move away and go west and start again. Located as advantageously as Fulton is, it looks as if something ought to be done towards a system of water works. A reservoir on the hill, a system of pipes along the streets with a dozen or so hydrants and a few hundred feet of hose and a suitable pump would be the principal items of expense. Arrangements could undoubtedly be made with the L. & H. Lumber Co. to use the engine for pumping the supply of water from the river into the reservoir. However, it is not to be expected that anything will be done until a destructive fire wipes out half of the business part of town. It would increase the taxes, you know.

Mabel Barrett: Fulton Librarian

2007-11-04T19:38:00.001-08:00

Fulton Journal
August 30, 1921

Miss Mabel R. Barrett, a highly respected woman, who for many years had been a resident of Fulton, died Sunday evening at 6:30 at her home on Tenth avenue. She had been in feeble health for more than a year and for the past month had been confined to her home and under the care of the best of medical attendance. Her death came as the result of a complication of diseases.
She was a woman of wide acquaintance and held in the highest esteem by all who knew her. Miss Barrett was a graduate of the Fulton high school in the class of ’91, and for several years afterwards was a successful teacher in the schools of Whiteside county. She was for a time employed as a clerk in the office of the supreme secretary of the Mystic Workers, and served for nearly eighteen years as librarian of the Fulton public library. On account of failing health, she resigned as librarian about two years ago. Miss Barrett was a direct descendant of Rev. Cotton Mather, the noted American theologian, who died in 1728.
Miss Mabel R. Barrett was born in York, Carroll county, March 19, 1873. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Barrett, became residents of Ustick about forty years ago, and over twenty years ago moved to Fulton. They died several years ago.
Miss Barrett is survived by one sister, Cora, the wife of D.C. Waite of this city, and an adopted brother, Dwight Barrett, of Springfield, Ohio.
The funeral was held this afternoon at the house at 2:30. The services were conducted by Rev. E. P. Westphal. The burial was in the Dunshee cemetery in York, Carroll county.

Billy and Jim

2007-10-22T18:59:00.001-07:00

Fulton Journal: May 8, 1885

William Fields and James McCloskey have fitted up the first floor of Abbott’s brick building in good shape for a saloon and are ready for business. The walls and ceilings of the room are decorated, the bar, mirror and fixtures are first-class, and everything will be done to make the place first class in every way. They invite all their friends to come and see them.

The city council has granted four saloon licenses. The license fee is $500, making a total of $2,000 and as it is payable in advance it is collected and safely deposited by the City Treasurer. Three of these saloons are located on three of the corners at the intersection of Cherry (10th A.) and River (3rd) streets. The other saloon will be kept at the King’s House.

Wednesday, Ed. Vervarin, a wandering, working, periodical drunkard sixty years old, came to town, got drunk, talked loud and bad, was arrested, taken before a justice and fined $4.50 which he paid. The same old party was arrested on a like charge a year ago.

Irish in Fulton: 1860

2007-10-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

The 1860 census shows that although most of the people who were part of Fulton’s very early years had been born in the United States, a large ethnic portion came from Ireland. At least 250 people are listed as having been born in Ireland. Most of the occupations for men were either laborer or daylaborer but other occupations were drayman, blacksmith, newsboy (age 25), woodsawyer, mason, miller, and farmer. For females it was servant, seamstress, housekeeper, or domestic.
There were three Pat Hurley’s: Pat Hurley and his wife, Mary, Pat Hurley and his wife, Bridgett, and Pat Hurley and his wife Lutetia.
First names for females showed twenty women named Mary with the next most popular being Catherine. Bridgett, Ann, and Margrett were next in popularity. Two women were named Honora, one married to John Crowley and the other to James Cotter. The most unusual name for a female born in Ireland but living in Fulton was Saboyla. A wife was usually listed without an occupation but there were two Irish families with two incomes: Pat Collins laborer and his wife, Mary, housekeeper and Pat Cusic and his wife Sarah, housekeeper.
Most Irish attended the Immaculate Conception Church formed at an early point in Fulton’s history. A building was erected in 1862. Bent’s History of Whiteside County states, “More teams can be seen standing at this church on Sunday, than at all the other churches in the city combined.”
Last names in 1860 match some current names in Fulton. In 1860, there were the Bennett’s: William Bennett and his wife, Ellen, John Bennett and his wife, Eliza, and Pat Bennett and his wife, Jane. Daly’s lived here: John Daly and his wife, Catherine, John Daly and his wife, Mary, Thomas Daly and his wife, Ellen, John Daley and his wife, Mary. John Considine and his wife Hannah have relatives with connections in Fulton. Was Bridgett Fields related to Gene Fields or John Loftis to Don Loftus? Was Bridgett Cain related to the Blys?
And I am most interested in knowing about those Irish people, John Flack, miller, and his wife Nancy.

Asylum Children

2007-10-20T19:04:00.001-07:00

“Asylum children” are detailed as a social practice in two issues of the Fulton Journal in May of 1878.
Mr. E. Wright was an agent for the New York Juvenile Asylum and he arrived in Fulton on a Friday morning with six boys for whom homes were wanted. With little difficulty he found homes for the boys. They were taken by the following people: J.E. Jordan, Albany, one; Mr. Huffman, Garden Plain, one; Ira S. Burch, Garden Plain, two, one for himself and one for his mother; Hiram Parker, one; and one by a gentleman living in Albany whose name remains unidentified. The next Journal issue said that Mr. Wright was in Fulton again and Ira S. Burch of Garden Plain returned his boy to him because he was subject to fits. This time Mr. Wright brought with him a brother and sister who were taken by a Mr. Jordan living a few miles from Albany. Mr. Jordan kept the girl and was looking for a home for the boy.
The conditions upon which the children were apprenticed were:
1. Each child may be taken upon trial for a period of two weeks.
2. At the end of the trial period, both employer and child must meet the agent and if all parties were suited, the child was then to be apprenticed until of age, boys (21) and girls (18). If any of the parties should not be suited, the child must be returned to the agent, but all cases must be kept through the trial period.
3. The amount required to be paid towards the passage expenses of each child was $12.
4. The articles of indenture provide:
a) that the child be cared for in sickness and in health with proper medical treatment, food and clothing. b) instructed in some business, c) sent to school four months in each year until it can read and write and cipher through compound interest; d) trained in moral and religious precepts and habits; e) paid in money at the end of the term of apprenticeship, boys $100 and girls $50.
5. Each employer must make a written report concerning his apprentice semi-annually to the agent in reference to its health, conduct, attendance at school and advancement in the several branches of study and also to notify the agent in case of desertion.
The children from New York were generally under 12 years of age and had been put in the asylum upon the complaint of a parent or guardian. They were children on the “orphan trains” who were sent to the west to work on farms in hopes that their lives would be better. Since they were paid for their work, they were not considered indentured.
Some social scientists label this as the beginning of foster care.
Oh, the stories to be told…

Tea Party

2007-10-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal: Oct. 3, 1879

The Presbyterian Church in Fulton in the 1870’s was a hub of social activity. This Fulton Journal article highlighted a gathering with children.

“The Baby’s Tea Party in the basement of the Presbyterian church last Friday afternoon and evening was a pleasing entertainment. Thirty children under three years of age were present. Their names and ages were as follows:
Jimmie Bennett, 6 mo; Louis H. Bally, 5 mo. Pearl Bryning, 17 mo; Ulah M. Chapman 3 yrs; Nora Almira Conly, 2 mo; Ruth Dutcher 4 mo; Helen Downy, 3 years; Florence E. Fay, 3 yrs. Hettie Filkins, 9 mo; Charlie Herrold, 3 yrs; Roy Herrold, 1 yr; Baby Hardin, 6 mo; Jane Kirk, 7 mo; Laura Loomis, 9 mo; Helen Lachmund, 1 yr; Baby Larue, 2 mo; U.S. Grant Morgan, 3 yrs; Louis Ehrich Morgan, 7 mo; Ivan Mitchell, 6 mo; Mary Mitchell, 3 yrs; Irene Mitchell, 9 mo; Ruth Parker, 7 mo; Baby Reed, 5 mo; Ruby Summers, 13 mo; Ruby Smith, 2 yrs and 6 mo; Harry Smith, 2 yrs; Spencer Williams, 20 mo; Nellie Curtiss Kinney, 3 yrs; George Rogers Kinney, 5 mo; Maud Edith Kitel, 7 mo.
A very pleasing feature of the “tea party” was the arrangement of fifteen of these children around one low table fitted up for them.
A large company of parents and friends of the children participated in the social features of the occasion. Oysters, peaches, ice cream and cake were served. Jennie and Arthur Griffith gave recitations in their usual happy style, for the entertainment of those present.”

Smallpox 1903

2007-09-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

CLINTON DAILY HERALD
January 17, 1903

As yet Fulton is free from smallpox, but the neighbors on all sides have it and the greatest care should be exercised to prevent this city from suffering with the contagion. New cases are being reported every few days in Clinton and Lyons, and Rock Falls has become so badly infected that all public meetings have been forbidden. In that city the disease seems to be of a more severe nature and some deaths have already resulted. Many are opposed to vaccination and think it is of no value in stopping the spread of the disease, but it is a fact that if one member of the family is suffering with smallpox the other members seldom catch it if properly vaccinated, and it is universally acknowledged to be the most contagious of all diseases.

Obituary: 1874 Early Dutch Settler

2007-09-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

April 22, 1874
In Memoriam

Geert Nanenga who died on Sunday morning, the 5th of April, 1874, was one of the most God-loving people I have ever known. It is not strange that the death of such a person, especially one of the most important members of our church, has made a deep impression on our hearts. At the funeral ceremony last Tuesday you could feel the effect his life and death had made on us. The whole church was behind the corpse coach. They walked in mourning behind the elders. It was a heavy mourning and if someone asks why the mourning is so great, while we believe our loving brother is living forever, the answer is in three points.
First, our loss. He was a man with a special influence in the church and was well respected. He had special qualities in speaking with those who were not converted and they respected him. He was quiet and polite as he spoke with them.
His pleasant fondness for God’s house was obvious. He was hesitant to boast of his devotion, but preferred as I said in his funeral oration, “He was quiet in his devotion to the church, but the walls of the church spoke his message.” As such people die, it is heavy on our hearts, the same as when Dorcas died. When she died, the clothes she made for poor people were displayed.
His walk through life had a positive tone with both God and the people. He was such a good example for us. We can see clearly that when we look at a new naked human being, he was complete. Jesus has the fame, but in Brother Nannenga you could view his soul-saving and it was special.
Secondly, his death is so difficult because for all people on earth who must travel to eternity and have not prepared, Mr. Nannenga has led the way. He was ready for it just as corn in the field should no longer be in the field when the grain is ready to be harvested. His last disease prepared him for eternity. At first his disease affected him seriously (bile fever and then liver disease). He was so sick, he wished for death. The world no longer had charm for him. The last words he spoke to a friend were, “I battled the war of life.” It took about 3 hours for his death. After speaking these words, he lapsed into a coma. They thought the end had come and he must have thought it, too, because he said good-bye to the people around him, but he revived because his soul remained in his body. For him came a last temptation because he said, “I fear I have cheated death.” After a few minutes they asked him if he was afraid to die and he said, “I desire it.” With calmness, he drank from a bottle which he held himself.
Now he drinks forever from the river of life out of the throne of God in the new Jerusalem. Now the battle is over and the faces of all who knew him looked sad when they said, “Geert Nannenga is dead.” The world is poorer for it. What a difference it makes who it is that dies. Some people are calm about death and no tears will be shed, but how this reaches people’s hearts and especially the God-loving, so they cry, “How great it is in the eyes of the Lord the death of his brother.”

John Van der Meulen
Fulton, Ill., 16 April, 1874
DE HOPE, April 22, 1874
Holland, Michigan

1902 Fulton New Year's Dinner

2007-09-19T18:08:00.000-07:00

Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Broadhead gave a splendid six-course New Year’s dinner to the faithful clerks in the former’s store at the family residence on Cherry street. Those who sat around the festive board were Mr. and Mrs. Broadhead, Miss Bertha Fischer, Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Sterenberg, Mr. and Mrs. B.H. Pruis, Almet Chapman, Will Cochran, John Reagan, and Claus Buis.

1900 Fulton City Ordinances

2007-09-19T18:04:00.001-07:00

From the Revised Ordinances of the City of Fulton, 1900: Owned by Fred K. Bastian.

Misdemeanors

Section 2. No person being naked or having the person indecently exposed shall swim or bathe in the Mississippi river, or in any place exposed to public view, between the hours of one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset.

Section 10. If the owner or keeper of any disorderly or gambling house, or house of ill-fame, or any house or place reasonably supposed to be such, shall refuse to permit the mayor, or any alderman, the city marshal, or any police officer to enter the same, it shall be lawful for the mayor, or any alderman, the city marshal, or any police officer, so being refused entrance, to enter or cause the same to be entered by forcibly breaking the doors or otherwise, and to arrest, with or without warrant, all persons found therein violating any law or ordinance, or subject to reasonable suspicion thereof.

Section 14. No person shall in said city store or keep more than one hundred pounds of gunpowder, at any one time, within one hundred and fifty feet of any other building.

Section 15. No person shall ride or drive any horse or other animal in any street or other public place at an immoderate speed.

Section 16. No person, upon turning the corner of any street, or crossing the intersection of any street in said city, shall ride or drive any horse or other animal with greater speed than at the rate of six miles an hour.

Section 23. No person shall use or propel by riding the same, any velocipede or bicycle upon any sidewalk of the city of Fulton.

Section 27. No person shall erect or maintain on or near the line of any public street any fence constructed in whole or in part of barbed wife.

Section 36. No persons shall play at ball of any description, or engage in other out-door games or athletic exercises within the corporate limits of this city on Sunday.

River Rats

2007-09-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

Fulton Journal April 20, 1923:

DRIVE AGAINST RATS

Business Men Employ Harold Blodgett to Take Charge of Extermination Effort

WARNING TO DOG OWNERS

CATS ALSO SHOULD BE PROTECTED AGAINST DANGER OF EATING POISON PLACED FOR RODENTS

A city wide drive against the rats will be on in Fulton next Wednesday and Thursday, and on those days poison designed to bring many of the rodents to their end will be placed at the dumps nearby and about town generally where it is thought results can be obtained. The business men have contributed a fund and employed Harold Blodgett, who will have the work in charge. He has recently taken a course in the science and art of exterminating rats.
This work is similar to that being undertaken with good results in other cities. Nearly every merchant has been making his own campaign against rats for years, and it has come to be understood that a general drive is the thing that will really rid the city of these pests. Fulton is no more troubled with them than any other place, but there are enough of them here to make well worth while to try to eradicate them.
W.H. Mitchell and John E. Ferry made the rounds of the business houses this morning and obtained the required amount in subscriptions to make the drive effective.
They said it would be well for owners of dogs and cats to look to these animals next week and keep them away from the dumps and other places where poison for rats will be placed.