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Grace Frances Stonehocker
1902 - 1912 (10 years)-
Name Grace Frances Stonehocker Born 14 Feb 1902 Prosser, Adams, Nebraska, United States 
Gender Female Died 10 Jul 1912 Aberdeen, Bingham, Idaho, United States Person ID I28 Stonehocker Last Modified 15 Oct 2015
Father Elvin Clark Stonehocker, b. 30 May 1869, Montezuma, Poweshiek, Iowa, United States , d. 2 Nov 1931, Salem, Marion, Oregon, United States (Age 62 years) Mother Anne Elizabeth Wall, b. 8 Dec 1879, Galena, Cherokee, Kansas, United States , d. 4 Jun 1961, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah, United States (Age 81 years) Married 20 Oct 1889 Kenesaw, Adams, Nebraska, United States Family ID F15 Group Sheet | Family Chart
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Event Map 
Born - 14 Feb 1902 - Prosser, Adams, Nebraska, United States 
Died - 10 Jul 1912 - Aberdeen, Bingham, Idaho, United States = Link to Google Earth
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Notes - Memories of Early Aberdeen - BY E. L. Davis
Chapter 10
In 1910 or 1911, Rev. H.N. Wagner, who was the Presbyterian Minister in Aberdeen, was called to go to preach apd teach for the Fort Hall Indians at Gibson. Mr. Wagner could do with his hands, things such as farming or carpentry, for instance, that might get better results at that time, than sermons. He came and asked if I could take him to his new location on the reservation.
We started and crossed the Tilden bridge when it was near Sterling, traveling in what was called a mountain wagon or a white top, which was the most common means of transportation at that time, (I wonder how many youngsters of twenty years or under, have ridden in one.)
In those days many of the Indians could not talk much English, and some could, but wouldn't as we soon found out. Mr. Wagner said he'd had some experience and thought he could converse with them OK, but when the time came for questions, the women would just laugh; another try would bring louder of the same-but nary an answer. He had tried to explain that he was the new minister, but if they understood they didn't show it. We stopped at many Indian cabins, or wigwams, as we went on, but just got nowhere until we were fairly close to Fort Hall store. There, for the 'steenth time, what he was saying finally got a response, and the rest was easy. Up to that time we had talked to more women and girls than I ever have since, seen in one day. The men must have all been away, as none showed up, and how those ladies could laugh.
It was getting late when we landed in Fort Hall, so we went to the depot for information. The Agent, Mr. Davis, was very kind and courteous. He gave us permission to sleep on the floor at the depot, which we did to perfection. You men have often heard of a man losing his shirt. Well, that night, I lost my night shirt, and have never heard of it since.
Next morning we reached Gibson, and, later, Mr. Wagner did some very fine Christian work there. I started home that morning but didn't care for any information or conversation north and east of the Tilden bridge.
We had a few deaths during the first few years, and the taking care of the bodies was much more of a problem than now. The first death in Aberdeen, after we arrived, was the little Stonehocker girl, whose family lived where the library now stands. Mr. Stonehocker ran a livery barn. Dallas Fugate came over and reported-the death, and, as they always did here, all offered to help. Miss Jones (Mrs. Lowe) and Mrs. Arms sat up with the family to help care for her the night she passed away, as was the custom in those days. The usual procedure in the absence of an undertaker, was to take turns sitting up in twos and threes, until burial time. We normally filled mason jars with ice, and with the use of a little formaldehyde, managed fairly well. When the cemetery was reached, and body lowered, the men all pitched in and filled rounded up the grave with dirt before leaving. This had to be done, of course, but I know all will agree that the present plan is infinitely better. Sometimes, more than physical help has been needed, but aid of any kind was always forthcoming.
Just before we came to Aberdeen a man was killed down the hill at Fairview, and the family needed help. As usual, cashier, Dallas Fugate responded, and with others, sent supplies from here. One day he was smiling and explained that he had just received a letter stating that the last supplies sent, contained some number two potatoes, and that she was not used to No. 2's, so please always send No. i's in the future. If he could he'd fill the order.
In 1912 Mr. Sweet told Mrs. Lowe that he was willing to build two residences in Aberdeen; she to pick the two for whom they would be built. Mrs. Lowe picked H.C. Wiebe, bank cashier and myself. We were given "Carte Blanche" powers, with no strings attached, to build the kind of house we desired, hire our own contractors, build where we pleased, in town, and pay back by the month. Bob Lewthwaite was hired to build our house, and we had drawn our own plans. Bob was one of those fellows who had paid, in England, as all did to become an apprentice. He was a very good carpenter, and an expert cabinet maker, and we were very well satisfied. Mr. and Mrs. Lewthwaite have always been good friends of Mrs. Davis and myself. The house was finished just in time. As we moved to the new house on October 22, 1912, a girl came to visit us on the 23rd. We liked her, and decided to keep her. We named her Virginia.
In 1914, we moved to our homestead; brother Watt came from Ohio in 1913, and worked on the new elevator, and in 1914 on new grade school building-living in town. Brother Bill came in 1914, and both agreed to farm, so decided to build three houses alike. Contractor, Jake Matthies, gave a very satisfactory figure-less than one could be built for today. One was built on the homestead for us-one on the southwest corner of the 160 acres for Watt, and one on the north 80 for Bill. The one built for Bill was moved into town a few years ago by Mr. E.L. Shackelford, and is now a part of his present fine home. To the homestead, Gwen came on December 30, 1915, on a very cold, wintry day, with a deep snow on the ground, and a strong wind blowing. I hitched the "little grey mare" to the buggy and came to town, about 4 a.m., and found Dr. MacKinnon sick in bed. He asked me to call Dr. Noth at American Falls. The only place from which to call at that time of day was the Bingham Hotel, and Dr. Noth said "OK." He'd come. I proceeded to get Mrs. Carpenter, who lived northeast of town, near the Pratt place. When we came back through town we found that Mr. Glenn Partner and Hilda also needed a doctor (for the same reason).
Glenn had called Dr. Noth about an hour after my call. He lived south of town, and agreed to meet the doctor on the way, as the snow was bad, so Glenn got him first. I explained this to Mrs. Davis, and she answered, "That's OK as this will be Hilda's first." The doctor arrived at the homestead, with brother Bill's help, a couple of hours after Gwen was born. I recall that the wind was blowing so hard that there actually was a little snow on the bed. We always called Dale Partner and Gwen Davis, the twins.
In the spring of 1916, there was a heavy coat of ice on the roads making walking hard. Then we had a quick thaw, and the road was covered by about a foot of water, on top of that ice. One morning, I put on my rubber boots, and started for the elevator, and waded up to my boot tops, on that ice, not daring to lift my boots, but just slide along, for nearly a half mile, from the southwest corner of the Toevs place to the bridge at their place-once or twice going over the boot tops. I came to the drug store, and told Joe Dvorak Sr., that I waded over my boots, and he said, "O Yah." So I lifted one boot up and let the water run out on the floor. Joe laughed, and said, "Seeing is believing. Never mind the other."
The first auto for Aberdeen was bought by Mr. A.L. Colborn and son, Bruce, February 20, 1913, and this car was described in the Times as a four door type car, 4 cylinder, 20 h.p. Dr. . MacKinnon bought a Ford the same year. He came over to the office some time later, and asked me to go out to a home on the dry farm with him, about 20 miles I suppose. There was an insane woman there, and he was to send her to Blackfoot. I said to myself-sure-the doctor wants good company today. All went well till we were on the way back, over rocky roads, when we had a flat. The good doctor said, "I was afraid of that happening, and that's the reason I wanted you to come along and pump. My ego was deflated in proportion as that tube was inflated. I hadn't made the right guess at all.
In 1916 or 1917, the Phillips boys and myself went deer hunting about 20 to 25 miles northwest of here. The snow was fairly deep, and traveling slow. There was no water, so we melted snow, both for drinking water and dish water. The first morning, Harve sighted a deer and we heard a shot-but he missed a vital spot, and shot the deer through the left shoulder. We followed, but never caught up with him.
The second shot came to me-a long shot-and the last leap over the hill. I fired, but thought nothing of it, as I have always been a very poor shot, with a gun. Bert Phillips came up and said, "You hit himOK. Come here." The bullet had gone through the body, and we followed him for miles by the blood. Harve wanted to sit down and rest a while, and let the deer rest, and, as he put it, "stiffen up". That didn't appeal to me, but he was right. We followed the trail for miles and we could see where he had lain down, but the coyote tracks, by then, were there by the hundreds.
We didn't get him either, but we were miles from camp and, at least to me, all the ground looked alike. Finally I asked Harve if he knew what direction the camp was from us. He said "No, but Dick does," (Dick was his horse). So, we started for camp, two on the horse and one holding his tail, changing off at times. Dick took us to our camp all right, and stopped at the tent. To me, that was a wonderful performance.
On that trip, we saw many bands of wild horses. They were a beautiful sight. One band of several horses, were what looked to be about a mile off from us. One of the boys said he was going to shoot at them. "Watch them." He did, and a minute later, not a sign of the wild horses. The stallion, or boss, guides them from the rear, nipping at them to keep them going. We didn't get as close to any other bands.
The last day out, one of our number had a broadside shot at a big buck, not too far off. I stood and watched him shoot several shots, never touching him, then the deer moved on, and I laughed loud and long. He was our -best shot-somebody had "buck fever" that day.
The year 1918 was the time of the terrible ."flu" here, and over much of the country, there were several deaths. A call for volunteers was sent out and several responded; but the emergency was great, and many were justly hesitant. However, there were two ladies, whom I have called our "Guardian Angels". There was no fear in either, when duty called-Mrs. Sam Johnston, (Mrs. Pearl Slaugh's mother), and Mrs. John Kelso (Mrs. Sam Stambaugh's mother). They wore masks, as we all did, but did not shirk, when called.
The first death was that of Dave Stone, I think, who lived on a farm now owned by Walt Vanderford and still referred to as the "Stone place". After that, people were stricken in all sections, and some of us were up every night, catching a wink of sleep, when we could-and poor Dr. MacKinnon got almost none. Many will remember how one would seem all right one day, and the next, very sick. I recall I went to the farm to get Bill to help-they were all down. I went to Watt's for help for Bill's folks, and they, also, were all down. Supplies were left at the door, also medicine. Mrs. Kelso went out to Watt's house where there was a large family. Mrs. Johnston, and other women, also went where the cases seemed the worst. When it seemed the fight was lost, gradually things got better, I am sure that all who are old enough to remember the year 1918, will never want to have another year like it, for sickness, but, also, they will never forget the bravery and helpfulness of so many, at so great a risk.
In 1920 the ladies of the WCTU obtained an option on the land where the park is now situated, for that purpose. In the fall of that year the town authorities bought it, and a call went out for help. The response was great-the place leveled-trees planted-grass seeded, etc. Today, our little park is second to none.
Also in 1920, these same ladies of the WCTU started the library by donating $40.00 cash for the purchase of books, and asking for donations of books from local people. The library was located in Mrs. Lowe's office until 1929, when it was moved into a little notion store operated by Rowena Thomas and Mrs. Stark Johnson. It was moved to the present location later.The electric lights came to Aberdeen June 26, 1916.
We had a bank robbery in Aberdeen on June 12, 1921, and Mr. Jenkins of the Aberdeen Times, got out a special edition, having the little paper out shortly after the discovery. Damage mostly done was on safety deposit boxes in the vault.
Post office was robbed a couple of times-not much damage.
July 4,1910, Mrs. Davis, sister Emma and 1 went fishing up at Boone Creek, coming back about 2 p.m., and watched a ball game on the east side of town, while it snowed.
Went to a party in 1916, and a young man who had just read Owen Wister's "Virginian" tried one of his stunts. The bed was pretty well filled with babies, and he exchanged a couple of them-also changing outer garments. No good-neither mother satisfied-both felt cheated.
About 1911, a man who had a large family, came to our house, as I remember on a Sunday afternoon, and said he needed another horse. I had an old horse, about my age, who would get out of the traces; one day he stepped out, and I kicked him on the leg-he kicked back so quickly that I was surprised. Hurt me a little but I admired the old horse for the surprise. Well, I told this fellow that I didn't need him, so I'd sell him for $10.00; then he needed a buggy. I said, "OK, I've got one I don't need," and he could have that. He didn't have any money-so he took horse and buggy. Some time later, he was back, and said the horse had died. Said he wasn't used to oats, and broke into a bag and ate too many. I told him he didn't need to pay any then (he couldn't) but, I can't remember which of us furnished the bag of oats-to save me.
I learned something of the law too. I hired this same fellow to grub some sage brush on the north eighty (about $25.00 I think). Quite a while after he had been paid, a neighbor came in and said he wanted his money for grubbing that sage brush. I told him I didn't hire him to grub on my place. He said no, but this other fellow had, and some lawyer had told him to come collect from me.
We had an attorney in Aberdeen named T.S. Becker, and he had heard me say that a man west of town had borrowed bags to the amount of $50.00, and then sold wheat and the bags in American Falls. A little later, Mr. Becker came to the office and said he believed he could collect that fifty for us. I asked how, and then said "No, I don't care how, as long as it is legitimate." About a week later he came and laid fifty dollars on my desk. Upon being asked how much we owed him, he said, "I got mine already." This fellow had advertised an auction sale, listing a flock of fancy leghorn hens.Mr. Becker bid them in, and hired a bunch of fellows to help put them in coops. Mr. Man told him he couldn't take the chickens because they were mortgaged. The lawyer asked him who advertised them for sale. The upshot of it was, that he went to the house and brought out enough cash to pay for the bags and the attorney's fees.
I had one rather tough experience. I have mentioned aboul~ the flu. Well, there was one family that had fared particularly badly. Several in the family had died. One day a man came into the office looking very weak, and said if he could get $50 worth of oats he thought he could get team work, and could stand the job. I explained that I didn't feel that I ought to extend a long time credit for my company, but that I'd go to the bank and get it for him. Then he could take more time (he did) and could pay me back as he could (he didn't), at least, not yet. Of course, that was only 1918-1919.
This is the last article, and I repeat what was said at first-Aberdeen is a great place in which to live. We have fared very well-perhaps better than we deserved. Our family, likely has been average-four having been graduated from college and one having followed the path of matrimony after her sophomore year in college. Think we will be satisfied to let some better writers take over, but have enjoyed the work.
-- MERGED NOTE ------------
Memories of Early Aberdeen - BY E. L. Davis
Chapter 10
In 1910 or 1911, Rev. H.N. Wagner, who was the Presbyterian Minister in Aberdeen, was called to go to preach apd teach for the Fort Hall Indians at Gibson. Mr. Wagner could do with his hands, things such as farming or carpentry, for instance, that might get better results at that time, than sermons. He came and asked if I could take him to his new location on the reservation.
We started and crossed the Tilden bridge when it was near Sterling, traveling in what was called a mountain wagon or a white top, which was the most common means of transportation at that time, (I wonder how many youngsters of twenty years or under, have ridden in one.)
In those days many of the Indians could not talk much English, and some could, but wouldn't as we soon found out. Mr. Wagner said he'd had some experience and thought he could converse with them OK, but when the time came for questions, the women would just laugh; another try would bring louder of the same-but nary an answer. He had tried to explain that he was the new minister, but if they understood they didn't show it. We stopped at many Indian cabins, or wigwams, as we went on, but just got nowhere until we were fairly close to Fort Hall store. There, for the 'steenth time, what he was saying finally got a response, and the rest was easy. Up to that time we had talked to more women and girls than I ever have since, seen in one day. The men must have all been away, as none showed up, and how those ladies could laugh.
It was getting late when we landed in Fort Hall, so we went to the depot for information. The Agent, Mr. Davis, was very kind and courteous. He gave us permission to sleep on the floor at the depot, which we did to perfection. You men have often heard of a man losing his shirt. Well, that night, I lost my night shirt, and have never heard of it since.
Next morning we reached Gibson, and, later, Mr. Wagner did some very fine Christian work there. I started home that morning but didn't care for any information or conversation north and east of the Tilden bridge.
We had a few deaths during the first few years, and the taking care of the bodies was much more of a problem than now. The first death in Aberdeen, after we arrived, was the little Stonehocker girl, whose family lived where the library now stands. Mr. Stonehocker ran a livery barn. Dallas Fugate came over and reported-the death, and, as they always did here, all offered to help. Miss Jones (Mrs. Lowe) and Mrs. Arms sat up with the family to help care for her the night she passed away, as was the custom in those days. The usual procedure in the absence of an undertaker, was to take turns sitting up in twos and threes, until burial time. We normally filled mason jars with ice, and with the use of a little formaldehyde, managed fairly well. When the cemetery was reached, and body lowered, the men all pitched in and filled rounded up the grave with dirt before leaving. This had to be done, of course, but I know all will agree that the present plan is infinitely better. Sometimes, more than physical help has been needed, but aid of any kind was always forthcoming.
Just before we came to Aberdeen a man was killed down the hill at Fairview, and the family needed help. As usual, cashier, Dallas Fugate responded, and with others, sent supplies from here. One day he was smiling and explained that he had just received a letter stating that the last supplies sent, contained some number two potatoes, and that she was not used to No. 2's, so please always send No. i's in the future. If he could he'd fill the order.
In 1912 Mr. Sweet told Mrs. Lowe that he was willing to build two residences in Aberdeen; she to pick the two for whom they would be built. Mrs. Lowe picked H.C. Wiebe, bank cashier and myself. We were given "Carte Blanche" powers, with no strings attached, to build the kind of house we desired, hire our own contractors, build where we pleased, in town, and pay back by the month. Bob Lewthwaite was hired to build our house, and we had drawn our own plans. Bob was one of those fellows who had paid, in England, as all did to become an apprentice. He was a very good carpenter, and an expert cabinet maker, and we were very well satisfied. Mr. and Mrs. Lewthwaite have always been good friends of Mrs. Davis and myself. The house was finished just in time. As we moved to the new house on October 22, 1912, a girl came to visit us on the 23rd. We liked her, and decided to keep her. We named her Virginia.
In 1914, we moved to our homestead; brother Watt came from Ohio in 1913, and worked on the new elevator, and in 1914 on new grade school building-living in town. Brother Bill came in 1914, and both agreed to farm, so decided to build three houses alike. Contractor, Jake Matthies, gave a very satisfactory figure-less than one could be built for today. One was built on the homestead for us-one on the southwest corner of the 160 acres for Watt, and one on the north 80 for Bill. The one built for Bill was moved into town a few years ago by Mr. E.L. Shackelford, and is now a part of his present fine home. To the homestead, Gwen came on December 30, 1915, on a very cold, wintry day, with a deep snow on the ground, and a strong wind blowing. I hitched the "little grey mare" to the buggy and came to town, about 4 a.m., and found Dr. MacKinnon sick in bed. He asked me to call Dr. Noth at American Falls. The only place from which to call at that time of day was the Bingham Hotel, and Dr. Noth said "OK." He'd come. I proceeded to get Mrs. Carpenter, who lived northeast of town, near the Pratt place. When we came back through town we found that Mr. Glenn Partner and Hilda also needed a doctor (for the same reason).
Glenn had called Dr. Noth about an hour after my call. He lived south of town, and agreed to meet the doctor on the way, as the snow was bad, so Glenn got him first. I explained this to Mrs. Davis, and she answered, "That's OK as this will be Hilda's first." The doctor arrived at the homestead, with brother Bill's help, a couple of hours after Gwen was born. I recall that the wind was blowing so hard that there actually was a little snow on the bed. We always called Dale Partner and Gwen Davis, the twins.
In the spring of 1916, there was a heavy coat of ice on the roads making walking hard. Then we had a quick thaw, and the road was covered by about a foot of water, on top of that ice. One morning, I put on my rubber boots, and started for the elevator, and waded up to my boot tops, on that ice, not daring to lift my boots, but just slide along, for nearly a half mile, from the southwest corner of the Toevs place to the bridge at their place-once or twice going over the boot tops. I came to the drug store, and told Joe Dvorak Sr., that I waded over my boots, and he said, "O Yah." So I lifted one boot up and let the water run out on the floor. Joe laughed, and said, "Seeing is believing. Never mind the other."
The first auto for Aberdeen was bought by Mr. A.L. Colborn and son, Bruce, February 20, 1913, and this car was described in the Times as a four door type car, 4 cylinder, 20 h.p. Dr. . MacKinnon bought a Ford the same year. He came over to the office some time later, and asked me to go out to a home on the dry farm with him, about 20 miles I suppose. There was an insane woman there, and he was to send her to Blackfoot. I said to myself-sure-the doctor wants good company today. All went well till we were on the way back, over rocky roads, when we had a flat. The good doctor said, "I was afraid of that happening, and that's the reason I wanted you to come along and pump. My ego was deflated in proportion as that tube was inflated. I hadn't made the right guess at all.
In 1916 or 1917, the Phillips boys and myself went deer hunting about 20 to 25 miles northwest of here. The snow was fairly deep, and traveling slow. There was no water, so we melted snow, both for drinking water and dish water. The first morning, Harve sighted a deer and we heard a shot-but he missed a vital spot, and shot the deer through the left shoulder. We followed, but never caught up with him.
The second shot came to me-a long shot-and the last leap over the hill. I fired, but thought nothing of it, as I have always been a very poor shot, with a gun. Bert Phillips came up and said, "You hit himOK. Come here." The bullet had gone through the body, and we followed him for miles by the blood. Harve wanted to sit down and rest a while, and let the deer rest, and, as he put it, "stiffen up". That didn't appeal to me, but he was right. We followed the trail for miles and we could see where he had lain down, but the coyote tracks, by then, were there by the hundreds.
We didn't get him either, but we were miles from camp and, at least to me, all the ground looked alike. Finally I asked Harve if he knew what direction the camp was from us. He said "No, but Dick does," (Dick was his horse). So, we started for camp, two on the horse and one holding his tail, changing off at times. Dick took us to our camp all right, and stopped at the tent. To me, that was a wonderful performance.
On that trip, we saw many bands of wild horses. They were a beautiful sight. One band of several horses, were what looked to be about a mile off from us. One of the boys said he was going to shoot at them. "Watch them." He did, and a minute later, not a sign of the wild horses. The stallion, or boss, guides them from the rear, nipping at them to keep them going. We didn't get as close to any other bands.
The last day out, one of our number had a broadside shot at a big buck, not too far off. I stood and watched him shoot several shots, never touching him, then the deer moved on, and I laughed loud and long. He was our -best shot-somebody had "buck fever" that day.
The year 1918 was the time of the terrible ."flu" here, and over much of the country, there were several deaths. A call for volunteers was sent out and several responded; but the emergency was great, and many were justly hesitant. However, there were two ladies, whom I have called our "Guardian Angels". There was no fear in either, when duty called-Mrs. Sam Johnston, (Mrs. Pearl Slaugh's mother), and Mrs. John Kelso (Mrs. Sam Stambaugh's mother). They wore masks, as we all did, but did not shirk, when called.
The first death was that of Dave Stone, I think, who lived on a farm now owned by Walt Vanderford and still referred to as the "Stone place". After that, people were stricken in all sections, and some of us were up every night, catching a wink of sleep, when we could-and poor Dr. MacKinnon got almost none. Many will remember how one would seem all right one day, and the next, very sick. I recall I went to the farm to get Bill to help-they were all down. I went to Watt's for help for Bill's folks, and they, also, were all down. Supplies were left at the door, also medicine. Mrs. Kelso went out to Watt's house where there was a large family. Mrs. Johnston, and other women, also went where the cases seemed the worst. When it seemed the fight was lost, gradually things got better, I am sure that all who are old enough to remember the year 1918, will never want to have another year like it, for sickness, but, also, they will never forget the bravery and helpfulness of so many, at so great a risk.
In 1920 the ladies of the WCTU obtained an option on the land where the park is now situated, for that purpose. In the fall of that year the town authorities bought it, and a call went out for help. The response was great-the place leveled-trees planted-grass seeded, etc. Today, our little park is second to none.
Also in 1920, these same ladies of the WCTU started the library by donating $40.00 cash for the purchase of books, and asking for donations of books from local people. The library was located in Mrs. Lowe's office until 1929, when it was moved into a little notion store operated by Rowena Thomas and Mrs. Stark Johnson. It was moved to the present location later.The electric lights came to Aberdeen June 26, 1916.
We had a bank robbery in Aberdeen on June 12, 1921, and Mr. Jenkins of the Aberdeen Times, got out a special edition, having the little paper out shortly after the discovery. Damage mostly done was on safety deposit boxes in the vault.
Post office was robbed a couple of times-not much damage.
July 4,1910, Mrs. Davis, sister Emma and 1 went fishing up at Boone Creek, coming back about 2 p.m., and watched a ball game on the east side of town, while it snowed.
Went to a party in 1916, and a young man who had just read Owen Wister's "Virginian" tried one of his stunts. The bed was pretty well filled with babies, and he exchanged a couple of them-also changing outer garments. No good-neither mother satisfied-both felt cheated.
About 1911, a man who had a large family, came to our house, as I remember on a Sunday afternoon, and said he needed another horse. I had an old horse, about my age, who would get out of the traces; one day he stepped out, and I kicked him on the leg-he kicked back so quickly that I was surprised. Hurt me a little but I admired the old horse for the surprise. Well, I told this fellow that I didn't need him, so I'd sell him for $10.00; then he needed a buggy. I said, "OK, I've got one I don't need," and he could have that. He didn't have any money-so he took horse and buggy. Some time later, he was back, and said the horse had died. Said he wasn't used to oats, and broke into a bag and ate too many. I told him he didn't need to pay any then (he couldn't) but, I can't remember which of us furnished the bag of oats-to save me.
I learned something of the law too. I hired this same fellow to grub some sage brush on the north eighty (about $25.00 I think). Quite a while after he had been paid, a neighbor came in and said he wanted his money for grubbing that sage brush. I told him I didn't hire him to grub on my place. He said no, but this other fellow had, and some lawyer had told him to come collect from me.
We had an attorney in Aberdeen named T.S. Becker, and he had heard me say that a man west of town had borrowed bags to the amount of $50.00, and then sold wheat and the bags in American Falls. A little later, Mr. Becker came to the office and said he believed he could collect that fifty for us. I asked how, and then said "No, I don't care how, as long as it is legitimate." About a week later he came and laid fifty dollars on my desk. Upon being asked how much we owed him, he said, "I got mine already." This fellow had advertised an auction sale, listing a flock of fancy leghorn hens.Mr. Becker bid them in, and hired a bunch of fellows to help put them in coops. Mr. Man told him he couldn't take the chickens because they were mortgaged. The lawyer asked him who advertised them for sale. The upshot of it was, that he went to the house and brought out enough cash to pay for the bags and the attorney's fees.
I had one rather tough experience. I have mentioned aboul~ the flu. Well, there was one family that had fared particularly badly. Several in the family had died. One day a man came into the office looking very weak, and said if he could get $50 worth of oats he thought he could get team work, and could stand the job. I explained that I didn't feel that I ought to extend a long time credit for my company, but that I'd go to the bank and get it for him. Then he could take more time (he did) and could pay me back as he could (he didn't), at least, not yet. Of course, that was only 1918-1919.
This is the last article, and I repeat what was said at first-Aberdeen is a great place in which to live. We have fared very well-perhaps better than we deserved. Our family, likely has been average-four having been graduated from college and one having followed the path of matrimony after her sophomore year in college. Think we will be satisfied to let some better writers take over, but have enjoyed the work.
-- MERGED NOTE ------------
Memories of Early Aberdeen - BY E. L. Davis
Chapter 10
In 1910 or 1911, Rev. H.N. Wagner, who was the Presbyterian Minister in Aberdeen, was called to go to preach apd teach for the Fort Hall Indians at Gibson. Mr. Wagner could do with his hands, things such as farming or carpentry, for instance, that might get better results at that time, than sermons. He came and asked if I could take him to his new location on the reservation.
We started and crossed the Tilden bridge when it was near Sterling, traveling in what was called a mountain wagon or a white top, which was the most common means of transportation at that time, (I wonder how many youngsters of twenty years or under, have ridden in one.)
In those days many of the Indians could not talk much English, and some could, but wouldn't as we soon found out. Mr. Wagner said he'd had some experience and thought he could converse with them OK, but when the time came for questions, the women would just laugh; another try would bring louder of the same-but nary an answer. He had tried to explain that he was the new minister, but if they understood they didn't show it. We stopped at many Indian cabins, or wigwams, as we went on, but just got nowhere until we were fairly close to Fort Hall store. There, for the 'steenth time, what he was saying finally got a response, and the rest was easy. Up to that time we had talked to more women and girls than I ever have since, seen in one day. The men must have all been away, as none showed up, and how those ladies could laugh.
It was getting late when we landed in Fort Hall, so we went to the depot for information. The Agent, Mr. Davis, was very kind and courteous. He gave us permission to sleep on the floor at the depot, which we did to perfection. You men have often heard of a man losing his shirt. Well, that night, I lost my night shirt, and have never heard of it since.
Next morning we reached Gibson, and, later, Mr. Wagner did some very fine Christian work there. I started home that morning but didn't care for any information or conversation north and east of the Tilden bridge.
We had a few deaths during the first few years, and the taking care of the bodies was much more of a problem than now. The first death in Aberdeen, after we arrived, was the little Stonehocker girl, whose family lived where the library now stands. Mr. Stonehocker ran a livery barn. Dallas Fugate came over and reported-the death, and, as they always did here, all offered to help. Miss Jones (Mrs. Lowe) and Mrs. Arms sat up with the family to help care for her the night she passed away, as was the custom in those days. The usual procedure in the absence of an undertaker, was to take turns sitting up in twos and threes, until burial time. We normally filled mason jars with ice, and with the use of a little formaldehyde, managed fairly well. When the cemetery was reached, and body lowered, the men all pitched in and filled rounded up the grave with dirt before leaving. This had to be done, of course, but I know all will agree that the present plan is infinitely better. Sometimes, more than physical help has been needed, but aid of any kind was always forthcoming.
Just before we came to Aberdeen a man was killed down the hill at Fairview, and the family needed help. As usual, cashier, Dallas Fugate responded, and with others, sent supplies from here. One day he was smiling and explained that he had just received a letter stating that the last supplies sent, contained some number two potatoes, and that she was not used to No. 2's, so please always send No. i's in the future. If he could he'd fill the order.
In 1912 Mr. Sweet told Mrs. Lowe that he was willing to build two residences in Aberdeen; she to pick the two for whom they would be built. Mrs. Lowe picked H.C. Wiebe, bank cashier and myself. We were given "Carte Blanche" powers, with no strings attached, to build the kind of house we desired, hire our own contractors, build where we pleased, in town, and pay back by the month. Bob Lewthwaite was hired to build our house, and we had drawn our own plans. Bob was one of those fellows who had paid, in England, as all did to become an apprentice. He was a very good carpenter, and an expert cabinet maker, and we were very well satisfied. Mr. and Mrs. Lewthwaite have always been good friends of Mrs. Davis and myself. The house was finished just in time. As we moved to the new house on October 22, 1912, a girl came to visit us on the 23rd. We liked her, and decided to keep her. We named her Virginia.
In 1914, we moved to our homestead; brother Watt came from Ohio in 1913, and worked on the new elevator, and in 1914 on new grade school building-living in town. Brother Bill came in 1914, and both agreed to farm, so decided to build three houses alike. Contractor, Jake Matthies, gave a very satisfactory figure-less than one could be built for today. One was built on the homestead for us-one on the southwest corner of the 160 acres for Watt, and one on the north 80 for Bill. The one built for Bill was moved into town a few years ago by Mr. E.L. Shackelford, and is now a part of his present fine home. To the homestead, Gwen came on December 30, 1915, on a very cold, wintry day, with a deep snow on the ground, and a strong wind blowing. I hitched the "little grey mare" to the buggy and came to town, about 4 a.m., and found Dr. MacKinnon sick in bed. He asked me to call Dr. Noth at American Falls. The only place from which to call at that time of day was the Bingham Hotel, and Dr. Noth said "OK." He'd come. I proceeded to get Mrs. Carpenter, who lived northeast of town, near the Pratt place. When we came back through town we found that Mr. Glenn Partner and Hilda also needed a doctor (for the same reason).
Glenn had called Dr. Noth about an hour after my call. He lived south of town, and agreed to meet the doctor on the way, as the snow was bad, so Glenn got him first. I explained this to Mrs. Davis, and she answered, "That's OK as this will be Hilda's first." The doctor arrived at the homestead, with brother Bill's help, a couple of hours after Gwen was born. I recall that the wind was blowing so hard that there actually was a little snow on the bed. We always called Dale Partner and Gwen Davis, the twins.
In the spring of 1916, there was a heavy coat of ice on the roads making walking hard. Then we had a quick thaw, and the road was covered by about a foot of water, on top of that ice. One morning, I put on my rubber boots, and started for the elevator, and waded up to my boot tops, on that ice, not daring to lift my boots, but just slide along, for nearly a half mile, from the southwest corner of the Toevs place to the bridge at their place-once or twice going over the boot tops. I came to the drug store, and told Joe Dvorak Sr., that I waded over my boots, and he said, "O Yah." So I lifted one boot up and let the water run out on the floor. Joe laughed, and said, "Seeing is believing. Never mind the other."
The first auto for Aberdeen was bought by Mr. A.L. Colborn and son, Bruce, February 20, 1913, and this car was described in the Times as a four door type car, 4 cylinder, 20 h.p. Dr. . MacKinnon bought a Ford the same year. He came over to the office some time later, and asked me to go out to a home on the dry farm with him, about 20 miles I suppose. There was an insane woman there, and he was to send her to Blackfoot. I said to myself-sure-the doctor wants good company today. All went well till we were on the way back, over rocky roads, when we had a flat. The good doctor said, "I was afraid of that happening, and that's the reason I wanted you to come along and pump. My ego was deflated in proportion as that tube was inflated. I hadn't made the right guess at all.
In 1916 or 1917, the Phillips boys and myself went deer hunting about 20 to 25 miles northwest of here. The snow was fairly deep, and traveling slow. There was no water, so we melted snow, both for drinking water and dish water. The first morning, Harve sighted a deer and we heard a shot-but he missed a vital spot, and shot the deer through the left shoulder. We followed, but never caught up with him.
The second shot came to me-a long shot-and the last leap over the hill. I fired, but thought nothing of it, as I have always been a very poor shot, with a gun. Bert Phillips came up and said, "You hit himOK. Come here." The bullet had gone through the body, and we followed him for miles by the blood. Harve wanted to sit down and rest a while, and let the deer rest, and, as he put it, "stiffen up". That didn't appeal to me, but he was right. We followed the trail for miles and we could see where he had lain down, but the coyote tracks, by then, were there by the hundreds.
We didn't get him either, but we were miles from camp and, at least to me, all the ground looked alike. Finally I asked Harve if he knew what direction the camp was from us. He said "No, but Dick does," (Dick was his horse). So, we started for camp, two on the horse and one holding his tail, changing off at times. Dick took us to our camp all right, and stopped at the tent. To me, that was a wonderful performance.
On that trip, we saw many bands of wild horses. They were a beautiful sight. One band of several horses, were what looked to be about a mile off from us. One of the boys said he was going to shoot at them. "Watch them." He did, and a minute later, not a sign of the wild horses. The stallion, or boss, guides them from the rear, nipping at them to keep them going. We didn't get as close to any other bands.
The last day out, one of our number had a broadside shot at a big buck, not too far off. I stood and watched him shoot several shots, never touching him, then the deer moved on, and I laughed loud and long. He was our -best shot-somebody had "buck fever" that day.
The year 1918 was the time of the terrible ."flu" here, and over much of the country, there were several deaths. A call for volunteers was sent out and several responded; but the emergency was great, and many were justly hesitant. However, there were two ladies, whom I have called our "Guardian Angels". There was no fear in either, when duty called-Mrs. Sam Johnston, (Mrs. Pearl Slaugh's mother), and Mrs. John Kelso (Mrs. Sam Stambaugh's mother). They wore masks, as we all did, but did not shirk, when called.
The first death was that of Dave Stone, I think, who lived on a farm now owned by Walt Vanderford and still referred to as the "Stone place". After that, people were stricken in all sections, and some of us were up every night, catching a wink of sleep, when we could-and poor Dr. MacKinnon got almost none. Many will remember how one would seem all right one day, and the next, very sick. I recall I went to the farm to get Bill to help-they were all down. I went to Watt's for help for Bill's folks, and they, also, were all down. Supplies were left at the door, also medicine. Mrs. Kelso went out to Watt's house where there was a large family. Mrs. Johnston, and other women, also went where the cases seemed the worst. When it seemed the fight was lost, gradually things got better, I am sure that all who are old enough to remember the year 1918, will never want to have another year like it, for sickness, but, also, they will never forget the bravery and helpfulness of so many, at so great a risk.
In 1920 the ladies of the WCTU obtained an option on the land where the park is now situated, for that purpose. In the fall of that year the town authorities bought it, and a call went out for help. The response was great-the place leveled-trees planted-grass seeded, etc. Today, our little park is second to none.
Also in 1920, these same ladies of the WCTU started the library by donating $40.00 cash for the purchase of books, and asking for donations of books from local people. The library was located in Mrs. Lowe's office until 1929, when it was moved into a little notion store operated by Rowena Thomas and Mrs. Stark Johnson. It was moved to the present location later.The electric lights came to Aberdeen June 26, 1916.
We had a bank robbery in Aberdeen on June 12, 1921, and Mr. Jenkins of the Aberdeen Times, got out a special edition, having the little paper out shortly after the discovery. Damage mostly done was on safety deposit boxes in the vault.
Post office was robbed a couple of times-not much damage.
July 4,1910, Mrs. Davis, sister Emma and 1 went fishing up at Boone Creek, coming back about 2 p.m., and watched a ball game on the east side of town, while it snowed.
Went to a party in 1916, and a young man who had just read Owen Wister's "Virginian" tried one of his stunts. The bed was pretty well filled with babies, and he exchanged a couple of them-also changing outer garments. No good-neither mother satisfied-both felt cheated.
About 1911, a man who had a large family, came to our house, as I remember on a Sunday afternoon, and said he needed another horse. I had an old horse, about my age, who would get out of the traces; one day he stepped out, and I kicked him on the leg-he kicked back so quickly that I was surprised. Hurt me a little but I admired the old horse for the surprise. Well, I told this fellow that I didn't need him, so I'd sell him for $10.00; then he needed a buggy. I said, "OK, I've got one I don't need," and he could have that. He didn't have any money-so he took horse and buggy. Some time later, he was back, and said the horse had died. Said he wasn't used to oats, and broke into a bag and ate too many. I told him he didn't need to pay any then (he couldn't) but, I can't remember which of us furnished the bag of oats-to save me.
I learned something of the law too. I hired this same fellow to grub some sage brush on the north eighty (about $25.00 I think). Quite a while after he had been paid, a neighbor came in and said he wanted his money for grubbing that sage brush. I told him I didn't hire him to grub on my place. He said no, but this other fellow had, and some lawyer had told him to come collect from me.
We had an attorney in Aberdeen named T.S. Becker, and he had heard me say that a man west of town had borrowed bags to the amount of $50.00, and then sold wheat and the bags in American Falls. A little later, Mr. Becker came to the office and said he believed he could collect that fifty for us. I asked how, and then said "No, I don't care how, as long as it is legitimate." About a week later he came and laid fifty dollars on my desk. Upon being asked how much we owed him, he said, "I got mine already." This fellow had advertised an auction sale, listing a flock of fancy leghorn hens.Mr. Becker bid them in, and hired a bunch of fellows to help put them in coops. Mr. Man told him he couldn't take the chickens because they were mortgaged. The lawyer asked him who advertised them for sale. The upshot of it was, that he went to the house and brought out enough cash to pay for the bags and the attorney's fees.
I had one rather tough experience. I have mentioned aboul~ the flu. Well, there was one family that had fared particularly badly. Several in the family had died. One day a man came into the office looking very weak, and said if he could get $50 worth of oats he thought he could get team work, and could stand the job. I explained that I didn't feel that I ought to extend a long time credit for my company, but that I'd go to the bank and get it for him. Then he could take more time (he did) and could pay me back as he could (he didn't), at least, not yet. Of course, that was only 1918-1919.
This is the last article, and I repeat what was said at first-Aberdeen is a great place in which to live. We have fared very well-perhaps better than we deserved. Our family, likely has been average-four having been graduated from college and one having followed the path of matrimony after her sophomore year in college. Think we will be satisfied to let some better writers take over, but have enjoyed the work.
- Memories of Early Aberdeen - BY E. L. Davis