1924
A sort of autobiography of the members of Wesley Chapel Church M. E. Ladies' Social Circle;  as they were handed in to Mrs. Emanuel Peterson, Sup't of that Department.

Ada Gertrude Burgess
Was born January 27, 1893.  She was the eighth child in the family.  She had only a rural school education, spending all her school days in District No. 108.  She finished the eighth grade at the age of 13.  She joined the church when about 12 years old.  Was baptized by Rev. John Smith of Denton.  She was secretary of Sunday School for several years; and also the Circle's first secretary.  She was married to Roy H. Steinhausen on November 4, 1913.  They now have three children: Marie, Elsie, and Mark.

 "I'm Just an In-Between" I'm not the fastest, I'm not the slowest. I'm not the highest, nor the lowest I'm just an "in-between". I'm not the richest, I'm not the poorest, Not a "stay at home", nor yet a tourist, I'm not the strongest, I'm not the weakest,
I'm not the proudest, and not the meekest I'm just an "in-between". I'm not the best, and I'm not the worst, I am not the last, and I wasn't the first, I'm just an "in-between".
Mrs. Roy H. Steinhausen

Anna M. Steinhausen
Born at Rokeby, Nebraska, February 11, 1897.  Married to Ralph E. Stephens, November 12, 1919, at home.  Married by Rev. R. B. Barr.  She has survived measles, chicken-pox, whooping cough and mumps.  When six months of age, six teeth had appeared; when a year old, twelve teeth were evident.  She loved her old bottle till four years old.  Carried it around constantly.  When company came, the bottle was thrown behind the bed, and after they took departure, her brother Roy, would crawl under and bring out the treasure.  Anna Steinhausen was born on her Mother and Father's wedding anniversary.

Sarah Elizabeth Jarman
Born February 12, 1880, near Springfield, Nebraska.  Was married September 13, 1904 to T. N. Bundy.  Lived in Nebraska four years; moved to Colorado on a homestead, living there seven years.  Returned to Nebraska.  Have three children: Everett, Ruth, and Helen.

Mary Grimm
Born April 4, 1878, on a farm one mile west of Rokeby.  Most of my childhood, that is, all I can remember, was spent there.  All my rural education was obtained in District 103.  Attended Western Normal and Uni. Place High School.  At the age of nineteen, began teaching school.  Taught six and one half terms.  Married C. V. Reddish, April 12, 1904.

Mrs. A. F. Steinhausen
I was born in Martinsburg, West Virginia on Good Friday, April 10, 1868.  At the age of two years, my parents moved to Albany, New York.  We lived there till I was ten years of age.  Then my parents moved to Lincoln; or out west, where they said milk and honey flowed; but it was a long time till we found milk, and much longer before we saw any honey.  I had seen much of good times up to ten years old.  After we left the east, there was a great change.  

I had been in school with a hundred scholars in the room, and here we were out on the prairie where only 6 or 7 scholars attended.  I was so bashful that I could scarcely get up and read before those seven pupils, and they looked at me as though they expected some great speech from the little girl out of a large city.  Dear me: I cried when I came home and told Mama how they all gawked at me.  But those days are over, and the children don't know what bashful means. I have lived here all my life with the exception of 3 years.  We lived in Plattsmouth 2 years, and in Lincoln 1 year in my childhood days. 

I have attended Sunday School and church all my life.  When fifteen years of age, I joined the M. E. Church, which was then held in the schoolhouse.  Bad weather or sickness was my only excuse for missing.  I have gone in stockings tied over my shoe tops, wading snow waist-deep; horseback; lumber wagon; hay rack; most any way to get there.  At the age of seventeen, I taught the primary class in Sunday School for about five years, or, until after I was married.  Joseph Jones is the only member left of my class.  

Then I was organist for several years, Korah McMillan and I taking turns about, until the church was built, and they could find someone that knew how to play in public. I was married at the age of 22, at home, by Rev. Wendt.  I have lived here so long that you all know who I married, and how many children we have.  I have only been married once, and that was 33 years ago.  My husband and I are still living together.  We were never divorced or separated.  I am getting old and tired, so I will have to close.  I could sit up all night, and write, and then not be through.  So you will have to ask questions if you want to know any more.  Then just a verse of scripture; "Commit thy way unto the Lord: Trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass."  Psalm 37:5.

Bertha Elizabeth Steinhausen
Born April 10, 1889, in a sod house at North Platte, Nebraska.  My father died before I was two years old, and of course my mother married again.  I was left without a home, was shifted from one place and another amongst relatives, until I was six years old, my aunt, Mrs. A. P. Steinhausen came and got me.  

She and my uncle gave me a lovely home, and kept me in Sunday School and church every Sunday.  My aunt impressed upon my mind that I must never let anything come before church.  I joined Wesley Chapel M. E. Church when I was fourteen years old.  I was primary teacher at fifteen and was primary teacher until I was married.  I thought I had the best class in the church; was also Sup't of the Cradle Roll, of which Mrs. Hardin Angelo was always my right hand helper.  

Only for her, I could never have helped in church as I did, as I could ask her, and she always told me how to do the work.  My summer evenings always come back to me as my childhood's happiest moments.  I had a bicycle and I would always ride to Grandma and Grandpa Grimm's every nice evening.  Grandma and I would have a chat; she was like a girl chum to me.  Sometimes I would help Grandpa milk.  He would hold the cow's leg while I did the milking, and of course, I was always generously paid for milking.

I was married December 18, 1907, to Wilbur Emanuel Peterson, at the age of eighteen years and eight months.  My aunt and uncle gave me a very elaborate wedding; between forty and fifty relatives were present.  A four-course dinner was served.  We spent a week among relatives close around, until after Christmas and my cousin's wedding.  Then we took a wedding trip to my birth-place.  

We went to my Grandma's in town first.  While there, Wilbur hired a livery rig, and we drove 18 miles out in the country to my mother's home.  She did not know who we were at first, but then she found out who we were, she was very glad to see us.  We stayed at North Platte a week, came back New Years Day; walked out from Denton, rang the front door bell and surprised Mother and Father Peterson very much.  We have been married over sixteen years.  

The years have flown so rapidly, it does not seem half so long.  We have been blest with five boys - Roy Emanuel, Elmer Earl, Melvin Ellis, Orin Everett, Orval Edom.  The greatest blessing on earth is children, and my constant prayer is that I can be a good example to my boys.  You will notice there are three Emanuel's in the family.  

Grandpa Peterson is Emanuel I; son, Wilbur Emanuel II; grandson, Roy Emanuel III.  Also that Wilbur and Bertha's second names begin with E, and also their children. Since writing the above, another little precious boy has come to bless our home; he arrived on his father's 38th birthday.  His name is Clarence Wilbur Albert.

Leafy B. Droullard
Born April 13, 1893, at Beatrice, Nebraska.  She has survived the measles, mumps, and diphtheria.  She received her grade and high school education at Beatrice, lived there until her marriage to Charles Chester Foreman, on August 16, 1916.  At that time, she moved to Pickrell, where she resided two years, and then moved to the Wesley Chapel neighborhood, where she has enjoyed farm life ever since.

Sarah Matilda Priesner Kern
Born March 16, 1872, in Jefferson Co., Iowa.  When four years old, moved to Kansas; one year later moved to Lancaster Co., Nebraska, four and one-half miles from Kramer.  I received public school education in District No. 11.  I was converted January 11, 1888; the day before the terrible blizzard.  

The same time I united with the church.  The most wonderful incident in my life was my Christian experience.  There is not a friend like the lowly Jesus.  I had very dear parents, whose prayers followed me wherever I went.  I worked for the Prietz family nearly nine years, and with them in 1893 attended the World's Fair at Chicago; which was a real dream city for a country girl who had never seen anything greater than county or state fair.  

Chicago itself, seemed a wonder to me, for Lincoln was my only conception of a large city.  The last two years I lived with this dear family, who lived in Hinsdale, a suburb of Chicago.  I attended M. E. Church there.  I learned to appreciate my home while living among strange folks.  With great anxiety, I looked for a letter from home, and then when I prepared for the trip home, the train could not go too fast.  When it arrived in Crete, Oh the joy to see my father's smiling face, the eight mile ride home to be welcomed by Mother, sisters and brother.  

It reminds me now of how it will be someday when we reach the Heavenly home.  December 27, 1900, I was married to John C. Kern.  We started our new home on Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Bowers old farm.  We attended Highland M. E. Church.  We were very happy when God blessed us with two daughters, Edith and Estella.  What is a home without the little ones.  In 1910, we moved one mile north of Rokeby and joined Wesley Chapel, where we enjoyed the services.  

The Social Circle was always looked forward to as a get-together of young and old, to visit and work at the same time.  The Yankee Hill W. C. T. U. too, was an inspiration.  As we grow older, it seems good to look back to the good,  old,  times. January 18, 1924 we moved to 1109 Sumner Street, Lincoln, Nebraska.

Esther Rogers
Born June 26, 1901 near Rokeby, Nebraska.  I received the first eight years of my education at Prospect Hill, District 103.  My father taught in this school, and all his children received their grade instruction there; to keep up the reputation, I have taught the school for a year.  I received my High School instruction at Teachers' College High School, Lincoln, Nebr.  I joined the Wesley Chapel on Children's Day in 1915.  A large class joined the church at this time, and I think that almost all are still church members and have retained church going habit.

Esther Anna Peterson Moore
Born June 16, 1891 near Denton, Nebraska.  Had my first long trip the fourth of July, to a picnic at the home of F. W. Danwalter, who also had a daughter born the same day as I.  I was christened by Rev. Eckstrom when a young baby; he was pastor of the Swedish Lutheran Church of Lincoln, Nebr., where the folks attended church at the time, being members of the same.  

Later we went to Denton M. E. Church, then Wesley Chapel, where I am still a member.  I attended grade school at District 66; and took music lessons of the Misses Della Wolfe and Deborah Austin.  I always like church songs best; my folks would have to remind me to practice more, as I would put in too much time on sacred music.  When I have been real worried in late years, I get much comfort in playing church songs, over and over again.  

To see one's loved ones sick and suffering lots, is certainly hard and it seems sometimes more than I can bear the past fifteen years.  But we have God's promise of Everlasting Joy, to all who are faithful here on earth.  I have always been thankful for Christian parents, brothers, husband and daughter.  Mamma and I have always been, always great "pals".  I was married to Nathaniel Harrison Moore, February 21, 1911; by Rev. Prof. J. Stuff, a cousin of my husband. 

A few relatives witnessed the ceremony.  They served a very nice dinner right after congratulations were given.  In the evening, my folks gave us a reception, relatives and best friends present.  They served a very nice supper.  February 20, 1914, Edith Naomi made us very happy by her arrival.  She has always been the sunshine of our home.  

We have lived on three different places since we married, and all have happened to be on the south side of the road.  I have been a member of Martel Ladies Aid Society, Burnham Missionary Society and am still a member of Wesley Chapel Church and Wesley Chapel M. E. Ladies' Social Circle.  I have always helped in places of sickness and sorrow, wherever I could.  Made them happy and of course, that made me happy too.

Anna Olivia Olson
Born August 7, 1866, in Leland, LaSalle Co., Illinois.  My father was a store-keeper at that time.  Some years later, we moved to our home in the country, eight miles north of Ottawa, which is in the same county fourteen miles from Leland.  My education did not extend beyond the rural school, but by being observant and interested in learning, my education has not been neglected all these years; still I realize there is much to learn.  

I recall so well when my precious Mother taught me the Lord's Prayer, and other prayers when a young child; no matter how many times a day we would repeat them in concert.  I never failed to fold my hands.  Also, after having prayed my prayers at night, and bade the others "good night" it seemed wrong to me to indulge in conversation, or even say a word afterwards.  So we always had our "visits" first.  However, that was a childish notion that was changed long ago.  

It was quite a custom or habit for us school girls to go home with one another and stay overnight, which we always enjoyed.  Sister Etta and I took music lessons of Prof. Kellog, who was a perfect instructor; he played the violin while we played our lessons on the organ.  But, I was too much like the cat and the fish, they love fish but they will not go in the water to secure it; therefore I finally dropped it, which I have always regretted.  At that age, I much preferred to ride horseback as fast as the horse could go.  And I still love it, if I only had the courage.

I was christened when a very young child, and infant.  My parents never sent their children to Sunday School or Church --they took us, went with us.  The good old songs we used to sing are still ringing in my ears.  September 16, 1885, I became the wife of Emanuel Peterson, of Dayton, Webster Co., Iowa.  The marriage ceremony being performed by the Rev. George B. Miller, at the parsonage near our home.  

Sister Etta and her fiancé being witnesses.  We had a nice wedding supper at home.  After visiting several days, Emanuel returned to his home in Iowa, having secured a "bird" for his "cage".  A nineteen year old "bird", and it was neither a blackbird nor a parrot.  The following year in November, our home was gladdened by the addition of a son, Wilbur Emanuel.  

After living five years and a half in our cozy little home of eighty acres, with great maple trees and blue grass lawn, we decided after much thought, to move to the "wild west", Nebraska; as our farm was too small, and there was no land for sale near us.  So we traded in our little home to my father, who had land not far from Denton.  

My!  Such a change!  The pasture part had fence, and the rest was plowed ground, but we knew this before we went; husband had been out to see it first.  To say I was home-sick is putting it mild.  Mr. Peterson would comfort me by saying, "If we don't like it here, we can go back."  I can still see our little Wilbur walking up and down a small draw in our calf pasture, near the house. 

He said he was going to build Lincoln there and have street-cars, and Mamma and Papa were to ride free of charge.  In June 1891, our home was again gladdened by the arrival of our only daughter, Esther Anna. 

We were members of the Swedish Lutheran Church at Lincoln, at that time, but it was tiresome to drive so far, over twelve miles, with workhorses.  And it gave us little chance to become acquainted with the good people who so kindly called on us and urged us to attend their services.  

Those dear people who were the first to come and see us were Mrs. A. E. Bowers; Mrs. Will Bowers; Mr. and Mrs. Ed Bowers.  Shortly after, Mrs. A. E. Bowers and Miss Cora Angelo (now Mrs. Fred Griffin) called.  When we first came to Nebraska, we made our home with my brother, Oscar Olson and family, who came west some years before, and lived in the same house section, which made it very nice for us, while our little home was being built.  

It was indeed a great comfort, and wonderfully kind of them.  We joined Denton  M. E. Church for a while, but later changed to Wesley Chapel M. E. Church.  We always had the same pastor anyway.  We are still members of that church, and I belong to the Ladies' Social Circle of our church.  Am also a member of Yankee Hill W. C. T. U.  After our sons Orin Gustave and Clarence Calvin joined our family circle, our happiness was complete. 

Nebraska had been most wonderfully kind to us, and the longer we lived here, the less we cared to go back east to live.  We have had many splendid visits back to the old home and neighbors, as well as visits from the people back there.  Also innumerable trips to Oklahoma, Kansas, and other states, and out in this state.  We were to the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893, and back to Ottawa.  

My folks were then living in that city, and out in the country where I used to live, and also to the old friends and relatives in "our" Iowa.  Then on up to the beautiful scenery at the St. Louis Exposition and the Omaha Exposition.  We have also two wonderful trips to the western coast, always stopping  a day or two on the way to see loved ones wherever they lived at anyplace within reach in the different states thru which we passed, even going out of our way.  

I have so many favorite songs, but I believe "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness", is as much my favorite as any.  And the One Hundred and Third Psalm has given me much comfort, and been read to me more times than any other, therefore do I call it my favorite.  

I am passionately fond of poetry also; perhaps my favorites being Longfellow's, "A Psalm of Life" and Samuel Walter Foss' "Let me live in the house by the side of the road and be a friend to man." "The fondest, the purest, the truest that met. Then ah, tho the hopes that we nourish decay, Let us love one another as long as we stay."

Leona Victoria Haase
Born April 22, 1899.  Joined Evangelical Lutheran Church on the sixth day of August, 1916.  I was born and raised on the farm, and spent all my school days in Denton.  I was married to Harry Burgess, October 29, 1920.  We are blessed with one child, a boy, named Harry Melvin.

Hattie Eleanor Lammers
Was born 18 miles southeast of York, August 12, 1876.  I being the second child of B. J. and Mary Lammers.  One brother dying at the age of one year, before I was born.  I had three brothers, of whom all have passed to the Great Beyond; and also three sisters, all of whom are still living.  I remember so well the little porch on the east side of the sod house, where I did my first playing.  

We lived there until I was two years old, moving then within five miles of York.  My brothers and sisters and I had a great deal of fun wading in the sandy bottom of Beaver Creek.  My first three years school was at a little country schoolhouse about a half a mile from home.  When at the age of eight, we moved to York - the county seat where I got the reset of my school and musical education.  

I attended the first school ever held at the U. B. College at York.  At the age of 18, our family made a trip in covered wagon for my sisters health, to Denver, Colorado Springs, Blackhawk, Central City, and Rocky Mts., where we spent one whole summer.  In the year 1898, I moved with my parents to Centerville, in Appanoose Co., Iowa.  The young people had a party at which one of the most important guests were Mr. Frank Evens Pendergast.  

In the year 1900, Father, Mother, sister and I made a trip to the east, visiting Cleveland, Niagara Falls, Canada, and New York City, where we had aunts, uncles and cousins living.  We had a wonderful time.  The next years my other two sisters made the same trip.  We moved from Centerville to Lincoln in the spring of 1902.  

On October 22, 1902, I was married to Frank Evens Pendergast, (born Jan. 7, 1869) at the home of my parents.  I moved then to his home five miles west of Centerville, Iowa, where we lived for three years.  Selling our home we moved to Missouri; where July 16, 1908, Lucile Nedean Pendergast arrive to make us happy; she being the only child.  When Lucile was six months, we moved to Lincoln.  We moved on a farm north of Lincoln, where we lived eighteen months; moving from there to here in 1914, where we still reside in a wonderful neighborhood.

Lily Longden Burgess
Born on a farm near Lincoln, Nebraska, October 6, 1899.  I was the eleventh child of a family of thirteen children, eleven of whom are living.  I recall many hours spent herding cattle, and other duties well known to those who live on a farm.  About the only thing I remember of my early childhood is the experience of falling into a boiler filled with hot suds. 

I received me elementary education at District 108; graduating at the age of thirteen.  The next few years I remained at home.  At the age of 12, I was baptized, and joined Wesley Chapel church.  Began to play for Sunday School and Church at the age of 13, and have played continuously from that until the present time, a total of ten years.  I taught the Intermediate Class for several years.  

Am a member of the Epworth League, and was president of same for one term of office.  Joined the Social Circle and was regular attendant until I again took up school work which prevented my attending for the greater part of the year.  At the age of nine, I began to take music lessons from Mable Fraas (Evers), continuing with her for three summers.  At the age of 15 took lessons in Lincoln, studying for two years with Miss Jessie Graves, who is now Mrs. J. Stanley Welsh.  In the fall of 1919, I began my work at the University School of Music.  

After seven weeks of study there, I was compelled to drop my work on account of a sudden attack of appendicitis, which resulted in a trip to the hospital.  Well do I remember that terrible ride over roads which were frozen and rough.  The next day, October 26, 1919 at 2:00 p.m. I walked calmly to the operating room, climbed up on the table, lay down and allowed myself to be put to sleep.  

When I awoke, the doctor asked if I felt sick.  I said "No, only in pain."  Nevertheless, I spent a pleasant two weeks in the hospital, having many visitors and also beautiful flowers.  It was many months before I fully recovered, so was unable to take up my work again until the next fall.  Then I settled down to good hard study.  

Two years at the Conservatory.  I have been teaching music for a number of years, and enjoy it very much.  Last spring, I shocked the neighborhood by bobbing my hair.  I have had short vacations off and on, but my first real vacation was taken during the summer of 1923, when I spent a most pleasant four weeks motoring with members of my family through Nebraska and Colorado.  Some day, I have hopes of being united in marriage with ________, the man who will be my husband.

Esther Barrett Reddish
Born April 13, 1881, south of Saltillo, Lancaster Co., Nebraska; and have lived in three counties besides Lancaster County.  Will name them Otoe, Johnson, and Furnas Counties of Nebraska.  When we lived at Johnson Co., my father rented a section: three-quarters of a section of pasture land, and took in cattle.  We lived there for five years, then moved to Lancaster Co, north of Lincoln on a farm; and was there ten years, when moved to Furnas Co.  My father and mother lived there ten years.  

They sold out in 1913 and moved to Oregon, where they now live.  February 14, 1923, my husband and I took a trip.  We went from Rokeby, Nebr. To El Paso, Texas; stopped there for a day and night.  We rode on the street-cars sight seeing.  It sure was fine to leave zero here in Nebr. And go south where the flowers bloom.  

We went from El Paso, Texas to Los Angeles, Calif. to see a friend of ours.  We went up to Signal Hill where the oil wells are.  Then we went back down to the beach, that's the seashore.  We could see Catalina Islands from there.  We left at 5:30 o'clock for Los Angeles, next morning we started for San Francisco, and spent a day there, and at 5:00 o'clock we went to the boat and 5:40 o'clock we set sail for Seattle, Washington.  

Was there a day and then went on the train to Portland, Oregon.  We spent a week there, and then home.  We came by way of Denver, through the Royal Gorge, Colo.  That is some sight to go through that canyon.  On January 10, 1906, I joined the Christian Church.  Was baptized by Rev. J. S. Miller at Edison, Nebr.  In the year 1908 I was married to Oscar D. Reddish, on the 28th day of October.  

To this union, one son was born, which has been the joy of our life.  Arthur O. Reddish born November 24, 1910.  May God be with us the rest of our lives is my prayer.

Mary Ella Exley
Born October 10, 1876, near Lincoln, Nebraska.  My schooling, which was quite limited, was obtained in the little schoolhouse now known as the Burgess and Peterson schoolhouse.  Was married to Logan A. Rogers February 18, 1897.  Four children were born in the union:  Orville Wilbur, Esther Mina, Vesta Edith, and Chester Logan.  I was born, raised and married on the same place, and have spent practically all my married life within three miles of the old home place.  When a girl, I joined the Christian Church in Lincoln, later joining Wesley Chapel.

Lucy Emeline Stephens
Born October 16, 1899 in Harlan Co., Nebraska, near Orleans.  My people came back to Otoe Co. about a year later; where we lived on one place for about 13 years.  My district school days were all spent at Harmony School, Dist. 53, Otoe Co.  The first year of high school we drove to Julian, Nebr., a distance of 3 miles, taking a neighbor girl with us a part of the time.  The following years we attended Nebraska City High School, where I graduated in June 1915.  In my eighth grade year at school, I had a three week siege of pink eye, and 7 weeks of scarlet fever, but had already taken the first examination, so was safe.  Have also survived the chicken pox, whooping cough, measles and pneumonia.  I have lived at present location for about ten years.

Annie Beeley Shilton Burgess
Born in London, England November 4, 1859.  When nine years old my parents moved to Naples, Italy, where my father had established his business.  When I was fourteen I went back to England, and attended boarding school in London.  I remained there two and a half years.  Then went back to Naples for one year, after which my parents moved back again to England to live near Manchester; where I lived until my marriage.  

I was married to Joseph Burgess on September 12, 1883.  Two weeks after our marriage, we came to America and settled where we now live.  Fourteen children came to our home, of whom eleven are now living; William, Annie, Harry, Mary, George Alfred, Ada Gertrude, Jessie Howe, Maud Victoria, Lily Longden, Eunice and Joseph Ismay.  Nine of the eleven children are now married.  

There are also 27 grandchildren.  I joined the Wesleyan Methodist Church in England at the age of twelve, and have continued my work in the church since coming to this country.  My name has been on the Wesley Chapel church record for a number of years.  I used to sing in the choir, and I taught a class in Sunday School for several years.  God has wonderfully blessed and prospered us, for which I give Him thanks.

by Jessie
A TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER

Yes, God has indeed prospered her, And pored his blessings down. And I am sure there waits for her. In Heaven, a starry crown.

For she has surely done her part
To do God's service here, Her life has been one of service for Him
She has labored year by year.

I realize now as never before
The sacrifice she has made
To give her children the best she could. Her life is the price she paid.

For how much of her life since her first baby came. Could she claim as her very own? Always the children to clothe and feed
Tasks unending to be done.

For her children were brought up carefully, Not in a haphazard way; Each child had a task, and above all else; Each child was taught to obey.

Our clothes she made both pretty and neat, And knitted our stockings too. Always she had some knitting on hand; Waiting for her to do.

I think her busiest hours were spent; The weeks before Christmas came, Well I remember her working late at night; And every night the same. Each year when the long winter evenings came, We children in the kitchen played, While papa and mama in peace and quiet. Alone in the front room stayed.

And we used to go in and say our prayers; Just before going to bed; Tis sweet to recall how at Mother's knee; My evening prayers were said.

And sometimes I know when Christmas was near; She'd be making some gift for me, So when I would go for my goodnight kiss; She would hide it quick as could be.

There are many more sweet memories come; When I think of my childhood days. In looking back, I can how sweet; And unselfish were her ways.

And she still keeps working for each of us; And other friends beside. As she journeys down the slope of life; And follows the outward tide.

How thankful we are she is still with us; And we can be together, How sweet are the days when we all go home; And 'round her table gather.

God grant it may be many years
Before she leaves us all, For someday she'll be taken from us
To answer the Master's call.

Postscript: (a fine tribute, Jessie.  Well done.  A. O. P.)

Marian Ranney
Born March 9, 1845 at Batavia, New York.  February 20, 1867, she was married to Adelbert W. Reddish.  To this union was born two sons, Oscar and Clarence.  The first year of marriage was spent on a farm near Warsaw, N.Y.  In 1870, they decided to come to Nebraska to make a home of their own, taking a homestead in Lancaster County in March 1870; the farm now occupied by Oscar, her eldest son.  

As she and her husband were one of the first settlers, they suffered many privations.  They had very few neighbors, but there was a great deal more hospitality than there is at present, in the more settled communities.  She has always been affiliated with Wesley Chapel Methodist Church.  

She has been a member of the Yankee Hill W. C. T. U.  She has always been a lover of her home and family.  We may well say of her as King Lemuel said in Proverbs: She worketh willingly with her hands to maker her home happy.  (written by Mary Reddish)

Mrs. B. F. Smith
I was born near Williamsburg, Pennsylvania in 1845.  My father was a shoe-maker, and my mother, never very strong, died when I was eleven years old.  I was the oldest of five children.  After mother's death, we were sent to different homes, wherever they could take care of us.  

I lived with my aunt, my Mother's sister, for quite a while, then went to work by the week, never receiving more than one dollar per week.  I never went to school but a few weeks of my life, which may seem odd to all now, but we didn't have schools then so plenty, and it wasn't considered so necessary for children to have an education.  

Young folks in my time walked wherever they wanted to go.  They had what we called mountain wagons, which was usually a heavy spring wagon.  There was always a crowd of us together, and we had a good time, it was nothing to walk five or six miles.  

Mr. Smith was a soldier in the Civil War; and we were married the first Christmas after the war was closed.  That was 59 years ago.  In September 1868, I started for Nebraska.  Mr. Smith and his brother, and a friend of theirs, having left several weeks before.  My little boy was only 8 months old, and we had lived with Grandma Smith long enough for him to be pretty badly spoiled.  

We came by railroad to Council Bluffs, Iowa; and from there to Nebraska City by stage coach; where we crossed the Missouri River on a ferry.  The roads were rough, and my only companions were two big Irishmen.

We stayed all night in Nebraska City, and the next morning left for Lincoln.  It took all day to get there, and when we arrived, there was no one to meet us.  Mr. Smith couldn't come that day, but had sent word that he would be after me the next day.  There wasn't any hotel in Lincoln then, but one was being built, and the owner said we might have his bed that night.  

It was made of four posts with some sticks across, and hay for a mattress, and some old coats for covers.  Mr. Smith came after me, with a team of oxen, and a lumber wagon, the next day.  It seemed so funny to me that he had no lines and I wondered how he would drive them.  The men had built a sod house, but there had been a heavy rain the night before and it caved the roof in, so we had to use the dugout.  

Our only furniture was a stove, and a box for a table, and a four poster bed, similar to the one we had slept in in Lincoln.  Dishwashing too, was a small chore, as we only had a very few.  I often sat on the bed with the little boy and watched the ground squirrels come in and gather up the crumbs.  There was a neighbor that was sick and needed help, so I went there and stayed a few weeks while the men were building our house.  

The progress was very slow as everything must be hauled from Nebr. City.  But, through all those days, I never was home-sick, never shed a tear.  More people kept coming, and we visited each other, and had good times together.  One thing helped us all, we were all in the same circumstances; no one had more than another, we all had just what we could get along with. 

One time I remember quite well, we had a terrible rain storm, and I had just half a dozen old chickens, and forty young chicks.  The rain drowned all my little chickens, and I felt so sad I walked over to see Mrs. Allen Reddish (they lived where Mr. Jones now lives).  

When I got there she was hanging out bed clothes; their roof had leaked and everything was wet.  She was feeling blue, like myself, until I told her about my chickens, and then she said she didn't feel so badly, as she hadn't really lost anything.  Her bed clothes would dry, while my chickens were gone.  There were no trees, except a few willows along the low places.  

Mr. Smith and I planted seeds to get the trees you see around the old homestead.  It was nothing to carry the water half a mile.  We often saw Indians passing by, but none ever molested us.  Most of you know all I could tell of the rest of my life among you.  Mine has been a busy life, with an average amount of care and sorrow, lived among friends and neighbors I loved, and have never regretted having come to Nebraska.

Ilma Elsie Lingle
Was born September 26, 1888, in a little sod house on the plains of Kansas.  When three years old, I, with my Mother and baby sister went to Oregon; my Father having gone on before to see how he like the country.  I was the oldest of nine children, so of course, it kept my father and mother hustling to keep us fed and clothed.  I can well remember when about eight years old, our house caught on fire from the stove-pipe, and father was away from home.  Mother had us children go out in the yard, while she put a ladder up to the side of the house.  

Then she walked up it with two pails of water, poured it around the stove-pipe.  Put the fire out alright.  We children stood there huddled together crying, scared for fear Mother would get hurt.  No more fires that night, so we went to be supper less. Commenced school when seven years old, was fortunate in having good teachers most of the time.  Graduated from eighth grade when fifteen, took ninth grade work one winter.  Wanted very much to go to Seattle Pacific College, had friends there who wanted me to come, but being the oldest of a large family, Father could not afford it. 

This was one of the greatest disappointments of my life.  My younger brothers and sisters are getting a chance for and education we older ones missed.  I was converted and joined the Free Methodist Church at Damascus, Oregon, when I was fifteen.  I have the dearest, little, Christian Mother, who has been such an encouragement and help to me in time of discouragements; for discouragements come to us all.  I was married at home, February 27, 1907 to Herbert L. Angelo.  

In March we came to Nebraska.  I was a stranger, in a strange land.  Never had been very far away from home and Mother, so of course, I got home-sick.  Had some good times while in Nebraska never-the-less.  Remember well going to a party at Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Steinhausen's; there was a big crowd of us.  

George Burgess and Loren Angelo, with their jokes, were the life of the party.  I also had the pleasure of visiting some relatives in Kans.  I staid so long my hubby got tired of batching; sent me a telegram to "Come home at once."  I, of course, came on the first train, found nothing wrong except that he was tired of his own cooking.  I never quite forgave him for the scare he gave me, until he quit using tobacco few years later.  

We returned to Oregon in Nov. 1907; lived on a farm near Portland for five years.  Nearly every year, we found time to go the sea shore, or camping in the mountains.  In 1912, we moved to Lost River Valley, Custer Co., Idaho. 

While here, we experienced some of the hardships of a new country: living in a log house with no telephone or free delivery.  The people were sociable, we attended church, had our social times together.  In the winter, sleigh riding was a pleasure and sport for young and old.  Hunting and fishing were great sports there at that time, for game and fish were plentiful in that country.  

I loved to ride horse-back and go hunting with my husband.  I learned to shoot - and could kill the sage chickens too.  One of my brothers made his home with us for quite a bit, and before he went away to France, I had the pleasure of cooking venison for them, over the campfire.  We lived on our farm in Idaho five years, then sold it, as my husband couldn't get used to the irrigating; he didn't like it.  

We took our camping wagon and tent, started out to look for a new location, were traveling six weeks.  Went through Yellowstone Park, saw all kinds of game.  Traveled over all kinds of roads and in all kinds of weather; but we never seemed to take colds while camping.  As my husband's father wanted us to come and farm his place, we decided to go to Nebraska. 

While my husband was getting ready to move, I went to Oregon for a long visit with my folks.  Arrived in Nebraska February 1919; have lived here on the farm six years.  Have had many pleasant times renewing old acquaintances and making new ones.  Attending church and Sunday School at Wesley Chapel has been a pleasure and a great help to me in many ways.  When my husband was converted and decided to join the church, I sent for my letter from my home church and joined here at Wesley Chapel with him in the Spring of 1921.  I have tried to do my bit with the W. C. T. U. and other things of the community.

Four children have come to us to bless our home: Nina May, Hardin Robert, Rena and Faith.  I love camping and traveling; but they say a "Rolling stone never gathers any moss."  I guess we haven't gathered much moss, but have memories and experiences no one can take away from us.  To get out with nature, one seems so close to God.

Emma Grimm Sittler
As I have been asked to write my biography, I will give you a few pages of my history, as I remember it.  I will mention some of the things which impressed me most.  I, Emma Grimm Sittler, was born September 28, 1880 at Plattsmouth, Nebraska.  I was one of a family of eleven children.  

While still a babe, my parents moved on a farm one mile west of Rokeby.  Lincoln was our nearest town then, being not much larger than Rokeby is now.  About that time they had built railroad shops in Lincoln, and my father had a position there as foreman of a gang of workers, the rest of the family lived on the farm.  

It must have been hard for Mother and the older children to live in the wilderness, when they were accustomed to city life.  We heard many wild tales of Indians in my early days, and I well remember how I would hide when strangers would drive in.  I was seven years old at the time of the terrible blizzard of 1888  Mother kept me home from school that day, which was fortunate for me. The older children had hard work finding home.  When our little home of 80 acres was paid for, Father quit his work at the shop, and came to live with his family on the farm.  I received my education at the country school, and when I was sixteen years old, I wanted above everything else to get an education.  

But how?  Not a penny could be spared.  How I longed to take just a half dozen music lessons.  Mother always told me not to give up, but to study at home.  I took her advice, and studied at home, taking one book at a time, going through it and jotting down all important things or questions. 

Afterwards, sister Mary would quiz me and see how much I knew.  It was hard work to study by myself.  When I was eighteen, I borrowed money to go to the Wesleyan Uni from December till June.  By boarding myself, I got along very well.  The lady with whom I stayed let me work for some of my room rent, by running the sewing machine at the rate of five cents per hour.  

This was the average pay at this time.  I had never been away from home before, so experienced the most lonesome, home-sick time of my life.  The following two years I taught School District No. 130; receiving $30.00 a month, and $35.00 respectively.  This was fairly good pay at the time.  After I quit teaching, the school director gave me a good recommendation.  

The children tell me I got it to show Edom, for I was married the following year, December 23, 1902.  We didn't have much to begin our wedded life, but we were blest with health and ambition, and God was good to us.  Our children, Evelyn and Melvin came to round out the family circle.  

We owe everything to God, who has blest us in so many ways.  Sometimes the way was rough and stony, but we've always pulled through.  I expect to continue on trying to do my duty wherever I am.  My greatest ambition now is to bring my children up in a Godly way, and be a better Mother, wife and neighbor.  Mrs. Emma G. Sittler

Laura Emily Bliss
Was born in Crewe Cheshire, England, October 27, 1875.  My father was in the jewelry business at that time, but later, after disposing of his business, we moved to the village of Yardley Gabion in Northhamptonshire, where I lived until the age of 15 years, when my Mother died, leaving us a family of six children without a mother's love and counsel, just when we needed it so much.  

I was confirmed in the Episcopal Church at the age of 14, by the Bishop of Peterbourough.  Though I lived in the suburbs of London, I always made a visit to my old home once a year, and spent many happy times with relatives and old friends.  

I was married March 1, 1904, to Joseph J. Jones, sand sailed for my new home in America on March 9th; on the White Star S.S. "Cedric"; arriving at Rokeby march 20th.  Four children have come to our home:  Frederick George, Wilfred Joseph, Ruth Alice and Helen Louise.  The end of the story is well known to all, so will write FINIS.  Mrs. J. J. Jones

Kate Ada Frantz
Born December 26, 1867 at Boone, Iowa.  The first school I went to was pay school, taught by an old lady; we called her Grandma Smith.  We moved from Boone to New Sharon, Iowa, a Quaker town, and here was where I got my education.  In February 1884, we moved on to the farm near Boone, Iowa.  

In 1890, I came to Nebraska to visit my two sisters, and there my future husband.  In June 2, 1891, we were married and lived on the Johnie Walker farm on fourteenth street,  In February, we moved on a farm in Nemaha County, near Johnson.  We lived there four years.  We moved back on the farm where we now live in 1896, and in 1899, Floyd came to bless our home.  On June 6, 1901, we lost our oldest boy Laurence.  We have lived on this farm for thirty years.

Cora May Angelo
Was born December 26, 1874.  Father always said I was a delayed Christmas gift.  I was born in the state of Illinois, and came to Nebraska in 1881, so you can see most of my life was spent in Nebraska.  We came to Lincoln, and I have never lived over twelve (12) miles from that city since I came here.  I was the oldest of eight (8) children, and our Mother died when I was fourteen years old.  

Aunt Jane (Mrs. Blackburn) took Susie, the tiny baby, and raised her until she was old enough to come home.  I had six brothers and one sister.  Brother Wallace lives in Idaho, and Loren, Fred and Gordon live in Lincoln, and Bert lives on our father's farm, since Father retired and went to Lincoln to live.  Sister Susie calls Lincoln her home too.  

Howard, our youngest brother, died when he was years old.  I was married to Frederick Earl Griffin, February 10, 1898, who was born and raised on his father's homestead one mile south of our present home.  The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. J. W. Embree of University Place.  

I was baptized by Rev. Sherman, and joined the church when I was fourteen years old.  I want to say this about our dear friend, Mrs. Peterson, who is a good, kind friend to everybody.  She always makes you feel she is your friend because she loves you.  I wish we were all like that. (Thank you Cora, I appreciate the glowing tribute, and only wish I could feel worthy of the same.)

Ethel May Smith
Was born on a farm near Johnson, Nebraska, May 14, 1895.  When one year old, the folks moved on the farm where they now reside.  I received my eighth grade diploma from District 103; and also took 9th and 10th grade there.  I went to church and Sunday School at Wesley Chapel.  I joined the church when I was fourteen, and taught the Intermediate class for three years.  In 1915, I was married to Floyd Campbell.  Two little children came to brighten our home, Evelyn and Laurence. On May 15, 1924, our happy little home was broken up when Floyd was taken away.  No one knows what it is to lose a husband or wife until they have lost them.

BIRTHDAY MONEY HANDED IN 1924

Mrs. Ralph Stevens    $ .27
Mrs. Walter Luckhardt      .32
Mrs. Roy Steinhausen       .31
Mrs. C.V. Reddish       age 46  paid       50
Mrs. O. D. Reddish       .43
Mrs. A. F. Steinhausen       .56
Mrs. W. E. Peterson       .35
Mrs. L. N. Bundy       .44
Mrs. C.C. Foreman       .31
Miss Esther Rogers       .23
Miss N. H. Moore       .33
Mrs. J.C. Kern        .52
Mrs. E. Peterson       .58
Mrs. F. E. Pendergast       .48
Mrs. L.A. Rogers age 48  paid    .50
Miss Lucy Stephens       .25
Mrs. Joseph Burgess       .65
Mrs. Edom Sittler age 44  paid    .50
Mrs. Herbert Angelo       .36
Mrs. J. J. Jones  age 49  paid    .50
                $8.39

Sold six autobiography books at
 One dollar each     6.00
               Total  $14.39

More birthday money received:
Mrs. E. M. Smith  .58
Mrs. Floyd Campbell   .29
Mrs. Fred Griffin  .50
(apparently members contributed a penny for each year of their age)