77.' Lr- l?5tl I \ O'lU) -X I B RAR.Y OF THE UNIVERSITY Of ILLINOIS 977.35^ iktim historical tony Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign http://archive.org/details/sixscorefivebrieOOfarm SIX SCORE AND FIVE A Brier But Excitin; History or FARMER CITY on its 125 tit ~Arn n iverS a r y As Farmer City Celebrates Its 125th ANNIVERSARY ... HARRIS GRAIN (0 IS CELEBRATING THE COMPLETION OF OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY HISTORY OF HARRIS GRAIN CO. ... First Directors — Elected 1912 • DIRECTORS IN 1962 • J. O. BATEMAN WILLIAM CURTIS C. O. GILLESPIE D. C. DODDS FRED D. GILLESPIE G. W. HOWE R. E. HOWE J. WILBUR JAMES FRED NASH DOROTHY G. O'MALLEY F. E. SIEVERS O. B. PACE J. O. SMITH R. V. ZEIDERS HARRIS GRAIN CO. Telephone 4984 Dorothy G. O'Malley, mgr ■ ii . s *in, 3 g>ft >oa TrlZL 1831 1962 McCORMICK PROGRESS AND LEADERSHIP IN THE FARM EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY SPANS 131 YEARS... WE ARE THANKFUL FOR, AND APPRECIATE, THE PART FARMERS AND CITIZENS OF THE FARMER CITY AREA HAVE PLAYED IN THIS PROGRESS DURING THEIR 125 YEARS . . . CONGRATULATIONS Geo. H. Dunn FARMER CITY. ILL. In Appreciation C. CLIVE BURFORD In commemorating the founding of Farmer City, it is fitting to pay tribute to the late C. C. Burford for the contributions he made of historical value. He was born and reared in Farmer City, was ever loyal and enthusiastic in praising his "Old Home Town". His articles which appeared in the Farmer City Journal for the past 25 years, replete with history of the town from its very beginning in 1837, are invaluable. Without them, it would have been impossible to provide the records in this brochure. Clive Burford spent countless hours and energy in research and loved doing it. As this is compiled to be a souvenir booklet, we could not hope to cover and include all the historical events to date. We cannot name all the individuals who have been outstanding in their service to this community. We owe thanks to all the people who did research for the or- ganizations. Gratitude is also due to the many people who gave us their time in interviews and for other necessary information. LUCY A. WATSON and OSEE L. STENSEL Co-chairmen, Historical Committee FARMER CITY'S ONE HUNDREDTH AND TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE Proudly Presents 44 •> Aourneu ^Jhrouah \Jur Lyeard A Dramatic Living Historical Spectacular - - - PRESENTED NIGHTLY - - - JUNE 7 thru JUNE 10. 1962 FAIRGROUNDS 8:30 P.M. A JOHN B. ROGERS PRODUCTION Staged by GEORGE S. ELIAS NATIONAL PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR CHOREOGRAPHY — Terry Rowell SET DIRECTION — Larry Ruppert ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS : William Cline-Donna Cline-Kenneth Dobbs 'kickickifk'kirkirk'k'kick "JOURNEY THROUGH OUR YEARS" is based on an authentic historical line. The chronology of characters, authenticity and costumes, and locales in some instances, have been altered necessarily to meet the demands of staging and for dramatic effect. ***••*•••****•** --- BOX OFFICE --- GENERAL ADMISSION $130 CHAIR SEATS $2.00 CHILDREN: General Admission 75c Chair Seats $1.25 Tickets available at the Anniversary Headquarters, Main and Green, Farmer City, Illinois, Office open 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. daily. Tickets available nights of performance at Fairgrounds at 7 P.M. The 125th Anniversary Committee Farmer City's 125th anniversary cele- bration is as much a community affair as any volunteer undertaking can be. In one manner or another, almost every resident of the city, and a number from outside the immediate area, have participated in the preparation for the celebration. As in any such event, there is a guiding group to channel the activity and do as much as they can to ensure the unity of action for ultimate success. This group has been known as the 125th Anniversary Celebration Committee, Inc. Here are some of the people making up the committee. CLARENCE E. SIMPSON Spectacle ticket — Edwin Eppstein and Jones, advance sale. Richard Collier, cashier and gates. Spectacle — Mrs. John Overton, scenario and title; Mr. and Mrs. Roy Wright Sr., properties; Copeland and Simpson, grounds; Mrs. Joe Trenkle and Mrs. Joe Eubank, cast; Copeland, construction, and Mrs. Roy Ratcliffe, costume and make-up. Publicity — Fred Graff, press release; James E. Tobin, radio, TV and special projects, and Robert Gammage, speakers. Hospitality — Mr. and Mrs. Roy Roberson, dignitaries and guests, and O. W. Reinke, traffic and safety. Special events — Jesse S. Hammer, merchants promotion; Willard Thomas, parade, and Mrs. Clarence Swallow, historical windows. Active both in personal contribution and in moral support are members of the city adminis- tration under Mayor H. R. Hester. In addition to Dr. Hester, there are Councilmen Tom McConkey, C. B. Potts. Roy Ratcliffe, Floyd King, George Ste- wart and Gene Buchanan; John H. Collier, clerk; E. R. Rinehart, treasurer, and O. A. Peithman, at- torney. Forming the executive committee is Clarence E. Simpson, general chairman; Mrs. Minnie Belle Wells, secretary, Mrs. John Holman, headquarters chairman, and Charles L. Russell, treasurer. In- corporating officers include Dr. H. R. Hester, Richard Blair and Simpson. Division chairmen include Mrs. Joe Murphey, Leon Mason and Mrs. Holman, participation; Mar- shall Jones, spectacle ticket; Roy Copeland, special events; Mrs. Ruth Pace, spectacle; Dr. Hester, hospitality, and Russell, revenue and publicity. Special committee chairmen include Robert Smith, insurance; Don Davis, decorating, and C. A. Roberts, E. R. Rinehart and Russell, operating cap- ital. Committee chairmen, by divisions, include: Revenue — Lucy A. Watson and Osee L. Sten- sel, historical booklet; Mrs. Carrie Call, novelties, and Larry King, advertising. Participation — Claude Walker, Brothers of the Brush; Carrol B. Potts, promenade and caravan; Mrs. H. R. Hester, Celebration Bellese; Mrs. Rich- ard Young, sunbonnet, dresses, hats and ties, and Mrs. William Leding and Warren Calhoun kanga- roo court. DR. H. R. HESTER FARMER CITY'S GREAT FIRE IN AUGUST, 1879 SIX SCORE and Five Farmer City's 125th Anniversary 1837- 1962 A century and a quarter ago the fertile lands surrounding the now thriving town of Farmer City were unbroken wilderness, having been inhabited only by the Kickapoo Indians. Dennis Hurley is credited with being the first permanent white settler in 1830, in what is pres- ently known as Santa Anna Township, but at that time was called Hurley's Grove. Richard Kirby came at the same time as Dennis Hurley and built the second log cabin. Nathan Clearwater arrived in the fall of 1832 and recorded the first tract of land in this township. Five westward bound explorers found John Danner and family living in an aban- doned wigwam, located approximately where the D. A. Frederickson resident now stands. Danner was not impressed with the idea of being permanently located in this unimproved land and soon began a westward trek. Catherine Hurley Swigart, one of Dennis Hur- ley's 12 children was the first white child born in Santa Anna Township, July 16, 1832. Many de- scendants of Dennis Hurley are present residents in this vicinity. In 1833, other pioneers who chose this site for permanent homes were, with their families, Henry Huddlestun, from Indiana, and Richard D. Webb, from Kentucky. The latter acquired the original 400-acre claim of John Danner. By 1835 the fol- lowing newcomers, William Y. McCord, Rueben Clearwater, James McCord, Preston Webb, John Donner, John E. French and Epama Covey, had also recorded claims. April 9, 1835, was the date of a severe, cold wave that brought a heavy freeze. A traveler be- came separated by high waters from a westward bound wagon train, fell from the ox he was riding and perished. When he was discovered by the hardy pioneers, he was given a Christian burial in a coffin fashioned by Richard D. Webb, whose trade was that of wheelwright. One of the most colorful of the early settlers was the Rev. Paxton Cumming who was not only Your INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENT SERVES YOU FIRST C. A. Roberts Ross C. Swartz Agency Fuller Agency a devoted preacher of the Gospel but he was a skillful man in the community as well for he was a blacksmith. He died in 1839, being the first per- son buried in what is now Camp Grove Cemetery By 1837, there were 19 families with permanent bonus In Hurley's Grove. January 21, 1837, is an important date tor everyone to remember who has had the good fortune to live in Farmer City, for on thai tiate Squire Hiram Buck of LeRoy, a sur- veyor, traced the outline of a new town which was named Mount Pleasant. Nathan Clearwater erected the first house on the town site. The first store was built by William II McFall. John Smith of Virginia was the first innkeeper. In 1853, when a man wanted to take his family from their home in Virginia to establish a new one in the West (in Illinois) they did not make the trip in a "station" wagon, but a "covered" wagon. So it was with Hiram and Grace Murphey. The passengers numbered 10. Seven were Murphey chil- dren, the 10th rider was "Aunt Sarah", a colored mammy. The Murphey family was opposed to slave- ry which was one reason for moving to a state where it was not practiced. Although "Aunt Sarah" was employed by Hiram Murphey she was hardly considered a slave. She was offered her freedom and if she wished could remain with others of her race in Virginia. She was very prompt with her reply, "Ah gwine with yo'ail, Ah kaint leave these dear chillun." She remained with the family until her death and was given a Christian burial in the Parmer City Cemetery. Frances Murphey married George Page in 1867. Until her death at the age of 98, she contributed much to the history of Farmer City, and was ever lovingly called "Aunt Fanny" by her legion of friends. One event which she cherished occurred in 1860 when she with 15 young girls formed a wel- come committee to greet the Republican presiden- tial candidate, Abraham Lincoln, at the Illinois Cen- tral Railroad Station in Clinton, and he graciously shook hands with all. At an earlier date, when Lincoln was practicing law and riding circuit, he stopped overnight at the old Mount Pleasant Hotel. A young lad, William Murphey, employed as a "bell hop" by John Smith, felt highly honored when Abe Lincoln was elected President of the United States, that he had once polished his boots. 1 839 - THE TOWN STARTS TO GROW In 1839. the first voting precinct was laid off. Twenty-four votes were polled at the first election. In the same year the first mail was brought into Mount Pleasant, but there could be no postoffice established, for, alas, there was already a Mount Pleasant Postoffice in Illinois. Consequently the name of Santa Anna was adopted and Uncle Sam's mail sacks met at Santa Anna Postoffice; thus, John Smith's Hotel became a tavern of importance. Santa Anna had 14 blocks of 12 lots each with four partial blocks in the center of the town for a square or park. The streets were 49V 2 feet wide, except Main Street which was 66 feet in width. The town grew to reach the railroads. At the time the railroads were being built, in 1869, a meeting of citizens was called at the Stone Hotel, situated on the west end of the lot where the Jackson Building now stands. The purpose of the meeting was to choose a name for our growing city in place of "Mount Pleasant". Quite a number of names were suggested but none seemed to have the ap- proval of the majority, until someone spoke up and said, "The majority of the people here tonight are farmers and the room is heated with burning corn (as corn was cheaper than coal), fuel which is produced by the farmers. Mr. Chairman, I move that we change the name of Mount Pleasant to Farmer City." The motion was offered, seconded and carried. It was Jacob Swigart, a member of the State Legislature, who introduced a bill into the Assemb- ly in 1869 approving the change of the town name to "Farmer City". No history of Farmer City would be complete without paying tribute to Jacob and Rebecca Swigart, who with their seven children and their descendants have contributed much to the community's welfare through the years. SCENE LOOKING SOUTH ON MAIN STREET IN EARLY YEARS THE FULL LINE - - - — THE FINE LINE Ford Mercury * FALCON * * COMET * * FAIRLANE * * METEOR * * GALAXIE * * MONTEREY AND THUNDERBIRD » FORD TRUCKS McCONKEY MOTOR CO. FORD -- MERCURY DIAL 2106 FARMER CITY, ILL. ENTERTAINMENT THROUGH THE YEARS ONE OF FARMER CITY'S EARLY OPERA HOUSES PLEASURES OF PIONEER DAYS Although the pioneers, and the generation which closely followed them, did work hard and lived under conditions which most of us today would deem impossible, unsanitary, and thoroughly dis- agreeable, we should not waste sympathy on them for they did have their pleasures and their fun. The churches not only provided worship centers, but brought folks together for friendly visits after the services. Some of the first forms of commu- nity entertainment were quilting, spelling bees and barn raisings. Neighbors would labor for many days erecting a barn on some one's farm; then would come the celebration, with lively music, and old fashioned square dancing. The pioneers and their children realized great fun with their horses for the horse was the focal point of the old time farm life. Driving a good horse before admiring eyes brought pride to the driver. In the late 1800's, it should be noted, that the common practice of having the old-time Christmas trees in the churches was a favorite form of com- munity entertainment. Presents by the wagon load were taken to the churches. Names of folks from the wiggling red-headed boy on the front seat to the sedate, white-haired grandma were called (per- haps bellowed out) by Santa Claus. It was a great lark for the wags about town to place absurd and ridiculous articles on the tree for some prominent citizens. The old-time Decoration Days, with the Woman's Relief Corps in charge, were elaborate ceremonies in observance for the occasion. A long parade formed on the square led by a band or "Uncle Leonard" Chase and Lem Ennis' Fife and Drum Corps and two mounted Marshals of the Day. Fol- lowing, on foot were the Grand Army of the Re- public, Woman's Relief Corps and children by the hundred, each carrying bouquets or wreaths to place on soldiers' graves after the march to the City Cemetery. Best of all, the Decoration Day Memorial parade still marches as in days of yore, but the American Legion has taken the place of the Grand Army of the Republic. FOURTH OF JULY The rousing celebrations of Fourth of July at Owens' Grove were never-to-be-forgotten events. They consisted of long, but stirring, orations by a prominent officeholder or officeseeker. Fire crack- ers were thrown with devilish glee, which caused much fear of having a runaway horse. Picnics, of course, were always a "must" at Owens' Grove. At night, the festivities reached the height of their glory at the display of fireworks. The Fourth us- ually ended with a show at the Opera House and a dance for the young people. BEAN'S OPERA HOUSE A Two-Story Brick Building of the 1870's and 1880s Bean's Opera House occupied the upper floor of a building located at the southeast corner of Main and Water Streets. The ticket office was at the top of an inside flight of stairs descending from Water Street. There were numerous political rallies held in the old opera house and also road shows. (Mrs. Emma Hirst was quoted as remembering the terror of the whipping of poor Tom ... in "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was playing there ... to a sobbing audi- ence). Of course, the commencement exercises and home talent affairs made good use of the building. Also some people have recalled roller skating and dancing there to. The fire which destroyed this landmark occurred in 1891. THE BEST COMBINATION IN 125 YEARS IN 1Z) YtAKi INCREASED COVERAGE FOR BOTH READERS and ADVERTISERS . . . I SERVING DeWITT COUNTY and AREAS OF PIATT and McLEAN COUNTIES BEST FOR READING ... . . . BEST FOR ADVERTISING The Farmer City Journal The Dewitt County Observer PUBLISHING COMMERCIAL PRINTING Clinton, ill. Farmer City, III. 10 THE COLUMBIAN OPERA HOUSE The fact that our Columbian Opera House was named in honor of the Columbian Exposition in Chicago, held in 1893, would indicate that 1893 was the date for the opening of "The fine new play- house" in Farmer City. The grand opening of Young's Columbian Opera House was one of the big nights in the social history of Farmer City. Little Miss Maree (spelled Maree in those days), the talented and pretty daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter S. Young, gave the opening verses of dedi- cation on opening night. She was beautifully at- tired in pink silk, with hose to watch and she com- pletely charmed the auduience. Her smaller sister, Atha, was an attractive little flower girl. The above description is of course, that of the late Marie Nichols, beloved piano teacher and talented pianist and organist. She was the mother of Audley Nichols Swartz, Farmer City, and Harmon Nichols, a news- paper columnist of renown who lives in Washing- ton. D. C. Walter S. Young, with the aid of his architect, Paul Moratz, Bloomington, and H. E. Judd and Pam Covey, the Farmer City contractors, and Lowry and Hignett. "frescoers" from Chicago, had transformed the building into a "palace of art". The main area of The Columbian seated approximately 400 persons and the balcony 100. Seats downstairs, in the "fash- ionable area of the theatre" sold for $2.50 each, a terrific price when we consider that then a "square meal" could be bought for 25 cents. The balcony seats sold for 50 cents to 25 cents. Remember the two boxes, one on either side of the theatre, just off the stage? It is said that Frank Garver and V. N. Hinkle, community spirited citizens, laid $63 on the dotted line for the two boxes. Walter S. Young, as owner, was general mana- ger. His brother, Tom Young, (still living at ad- vanced age in Wellington, Kan.), was head usher. Other ushers were Percy Bean, Guy Houseman, Guy Sabin. Hymen Levy, Joe Eppstein and Dwight Her- rick (who is still a Farmer City resident). This beautiful building was the scene of many interesting plays, as well as commencement exer- cises and served the community later as a Movie House for a short period of years, was abandoned and was finally razed. CHATAUQUA For some reason, folks did not need vacations in the early 1900's. The summers were spent en- tertaining your "City Cousins" or perchance visit- ing relatives for a few days in neighboring locali- ties. The highlight of several summers was the Cha- tauqua at Weldon Springs. Many Farmer City fam- ilies "tented" on the Chatauqua grounds and en- joyed concerts of the highest quality and interesting speakers . . . "Helen Keller" was a big attraction. Trie socialibility of the campers was, of course, a treat as you met your friendly neighbors en route to or from the "Spring" where your butter or milk was kept cool. Many budding romances blossomed there. Then too, Farmer City was on a Chatauqua Circuit and for one week each summer, the big Chatauqua Tent on the lot across from the library was indeed a popular focal point. There were both afternoon and evening programs . . . consisting of lectures, drama, vocal and instrumental concerts. NICKLEODIANS — MOVIE HOUSES In 1914, John T. Kendall, Jr. and his wife, "Kitty", purchased the "Scenic Theatre" which had been operated by Dave Mitchell since 1909. The price of admission was 5c (one nickle). The name was changed to the "Kendall Thea- tre" in 1917. The Kendalls always employed a piano player to provide the "background music" for the silent movies. In 1919, they added vaudeville acts to their movie programs. Because it was the only "stage" in town, prior to the building of the high school gym, many home-talent plays were staged there on off-movie nights. Often, church services were held there while the church was undergoing repair or redecorating. Of course, the Kendalls progressed with the times and brought sound pictures and technicolor- spectaculars to the many movie fans in Farmer City and provided a "movie center" for many other towns in the area. Their twin sons, Richard and Reynale Kendall, were of great assistance through the years. Many energetic boys and girls of the community helped pay for their education through their employment at Kendalls. Many an organization in need of extra funds was allowed to share in the. profits from a "special" movie. In so many ways, Kendalls have been real "boosters" for our community. Since John's death in 1957, his wife Kitty and son, Reynale (Duke), have carried on. A SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SEASON ORATION FEATURED OLD HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENTS Long Flowery Speeches of Exodus by Sweet Girl Graduates Six or seven hundred people crowded into Bean's Opera House to witness commencement exercises of the high school. The crowd was too large for any sort of convenience or comfort. Most of the spectators, while they were interested in the exer- cises, were glad when the last item of the program was reached. 1889 — PROGRAMME — 1889 Music — Cornet with piano accompaniment "Bohemian Girl." Orrie Harrison and Miss Lida Bosler. Invocation — Rev. Wheaton. Quartette — "Ring the Bells, Our Tasks Are Done", Gimbe. Salutatory and Oration — "National Dang- ers", Stewart Jameson. Essay — "The Real and The Ideal", Gipsey Mc- Donald. Music — "Ideal Polka", cornet and piano, Orrie Harrison and Miss Lida Bosler. Oration — "Modern Delusions", John Clifford. Essay — "The Power Of Conscience", Louie Rinehart. Essay — "Dreams Of The Future", Frances Meara. Quartette — "Sweet and Low", Bamby. Essay — "The Power Of Expression", Winnie Morley. Music — Cornet and piano, "Sweet Spirit Hear My Prayer", with variations, Orrie Harrison, Miss Lida Bosler. Oration — "The Independence Of Thought In America", Fred Gould. Essay — "Will O' The Wisp", Katie Trenkle. Quartette — "Softly Dream Sweet Love", Martin. Oration — "Decision Of Character", Frank Knapp. Essay — "Is The Face An Index To The Mind?", Eva Chisholm. 1 11 THE HOW LITTLE PRICES BIG STORE LEROY, ILLINOIS The Town Famous For Free Parking . . . SERVING YOU SINCE 1895 . . . * APPLIANCES * MEN and BOY'S * CLOTHING * * FURNITURE * * PAINT * SHOES - For The Family STORE PHONE -962-2721 INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER THE HOW FOR THE BEST IN — FARM IMPLEMENTS — INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER IMPLEMENT — PH. 962-2711 12 Music — Cornet and piano, "The Vision", Orrie Harrison and Miss Lida Bosler. Essay and Valedictory — "The March Of In- tellect", Ida Ijam. Presentation of Diplomas. Trio — Graduates song, "Concone". Benediction — Rev. Jewett. The Salutatory oration, by Stewart Jameson on our "National Dangers" showed that the promising young student had learned his lessons of history from the maxims and teachings of wise and emi- nent statesmen and sages. Cautious, careful and precise, his oration was free from expletives and frothy gush so common to young orators. Gypsey McDonald's essay on "The Real And The Ideal" was chaste and elegant in thought and language. The essay on "The Power Of Conscience" had a touch of purity and sweetness that could not fail to inspire emotions of admiration for the noble and lovable traits of human character. John Clifford's Oration on "Modern Delusions" was followed by rapturous applause . . . because he ridiculed some absurd superstitions which still fetter the onward march of intelligence. The speech was very good and rather humorous whether John- ny succeeded in divesting the moon of its power over the potato patch is still to be learned. "The Power Of Expression" was the subject of Miss Winnie Morley's essay which was probably the most difficult theme of any on the program, but she handled it gracefully and retired from the stage amidst applause. "Dreams Of The Future" by Miss Frances Meara, was rose-tinted and sparkling with the beauty of landscape and flowers as seen by the school girl when she descends from the rostrum with her di- ploma in hand. Fred Gould's oration on the "Independence Of Thought In America" was worthy of his theme, and America will never lack for defenders of inde- pendent thought if these young people adhere to the lessons of patriotism learned in our public schools. "Will O' The Wisp" by Miss Katie Trenkle showed a well trained mind and the advantages of education. Her essay was gracefully presented in chaste and elegant language. The great importance of "decision of character was well demonstrated in the oration by Frank Knapp. Essay by Miss Eva Chisholm, "Is The Face An Index To The Mind?" The question involves very much of profound thought, and opens a broad field for discussion; but Miss Chisholm acquitted herself handsomely. The crowning event of the evening was the validictory essay of Miss Ida Ijam, on the "March Of Intellect." The theme is one of grandeur calcu- lated to inspire feelings of awe and reverences for the silent, yet sublime "March Of Intellect", mov- ing forward in its conquest of the world, and before which brigades of contending armies and blood- stained battlefields shall disappear. The essay was a fine piece of composition, that proved Miss Ijam had been forcibly impressed with the sentiment: "A little learning is a dangerous thing: Drink Deep or touch not the pyerian spring". The music, both vocal and instrumental was faultlessly rendered and left no room for honest criticism. Bouquets of every conceivable design of beauty were showered upon the graduates, and Professor Ransdell with his assistant, Mr. Covey, and the graceful little flower-girls conducted the exercises in an easy and charming manner. W. R. Morley, secretary of the Board of Educa- tion presented the diplomas. Nore — Kate Trenkle Clifford and Lou Rinehart James are the present sur- vivors of the class of 1889 and both are living in this area. Modes of dress and transportation are not the only definitely noticeable changes in 72 years. High School Commencement programs have changed too. This can be noted in the contrast of the ones 1889 and 1961. Seven persons and the concert band partici- pated in 1961. They were Miss Alice Peithman, processional; concert by the band; the Rev. Ed Armstrong, invocation; welcome by Dale Burleson, salutatorian; address, "A Fool's Gold", the Rev. P. W. Hayes, Effingham; National Honor Society installation; presentation of class, Duane R. Gronau, principal; presentation of diplomas, Eugene Houser, president, board of education; farewell by Ruth Ann Samuelson, valedictorian, and benediction by the Rev. Armstrong. PEOPLE and PROFESSIONS HERRICK FAMILY PROMINENT HERE FOR THE PAST 95 YEARS The five sons of George and Dora Herrick, who came to this vicinity in the late 1860's, have aided Farmer City's progress. Dora O. Knight, a former pupil of Capt. George W. Herrick, became his bride at the age of 16. The well known Herrick Law Firm was, of course, founded by George W. Herrick at the close of the Civil War. The eldest son, Lott R. Herrick, graduated from the University of Illinois and completed his law course at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., in 1894 and immedi- ately joined his father's law firm . . . "Herrick and Herrick." Lott was elected judge of DeWitt County in 1902, but the tragic death of his father caused him to resign in 1904. Lott R. Herrick was known as one of the best and had cases in many surround- ing cities and towns. He was elected in 1932 as one of the seven Justices of the Supreme Court of Illinois. He filled that office with personal pride and brought honor to his home town. His death occurred in 1937. Lyle G. Herrick graduated from the University of Illinois in 1903 and was a life member of the Alumni Association. He served as secretary to his brother, Justice Lott R. Herrick, and was for years the secretary of the Farmer City Building and Loan Association. He was very ably active in all Farmer City projects and maintained the Herrick Law Of- fice until his sudden death in 1954. G. Wirt Herrick graduated from the University of Illinois in 1913. He lives in Clinton, a partner in the law firm of Herrick, Rudasill and Moss. Wirt served three years as state's attorney of DeWitt County and was prominent in the work of the State's Attorney Assn. He was elected for seve- ral terms on the Board of Trustees of the Univer- sity of Illinois. Dwight O. Herrick lives in the George Herrick homestead and for many years managed the Her- rick farm. He entered the University of Illinois in 1898 and became a Sigma Chi. Wayne D. Herrick graduated from the University of Illinois in 1913 and farmed for many years prior to his appoint- ment as postmaster. He has recently resigned after 13 CONGRATULATIONS FARMER CITY ON YOUR 125th Anniversary Celebration Thorp Seed Co CLINTON, ILL. pr—— ;-r ". ' ■ :—:* ■ ■ -< FUNK'S 1 I HYBRID 14 serving in that office for 26 years There were two Herrick daughters, Blanche Herrick Wilson, who died soon after her marriage and Hope Herrick Henry who died in 1920 leaving a son and daughter who were reared by their grandmother, Mrs. Dora Herrick. They too are University of Illinois gradu- ates as are most of the other Herrick descendants. Capt. George \V. Herrick met his death when his frisky young horse shied at one of the first automobiles to travel the streets of Farmer City. Mrs. George Herrick, nee Dora Knight, Mrs. Lott R. Herrick. nee Harriet Swigart, Mrs. Dwight O. Herrick, nee Katherine Fuller, Mrs. Lyle G. Herrick, nee Vernele H. Norris, and Mrs. Wayne D. Herrick, nee Laura Howard, have been leaders in church and civic affairs in Farmer City through the years. STENSELS' FUNERAL HOME — 1867-1962 Stensels' Funeral Home, owned and managed by Harlow M., Lester R. and Vernell F. Stensel, was established in 1867 by the brothers' grandfather, John Stensel, Sr., who emigrated from Prussia that year. The voyage required nine weeks from Ham- burg to New York City. The young man was a craftsman in the art of woodworking and applied his skill to making furniture. Many pieces of his hand work are still in this community. Prior to John Stensel's arrival and when the need for coffins occurred they were roughly con- structed by friends of the deceased. It became the custom for a man more deft with his hands and simple tools to fashion coffins. Subsequently, John Stensel, Sr., became an undertaker. As time went on he was ably assisted by his sons, George and John. They, keeping abreast with the times and the law, became licensed embalmers and introduced new methods when available. One was a black hearse with eight black plumes around the top, drawn by two black horses also adorned with black plumes. The driver was appropriately dressed in Prince Albert coat and tall silk hat. (The first auto coach was not purchased until 1916 and was the first in use within a radius of 25 miles). Following graduation from high school, George Stensel's sons, Harlow, Lester and Vernell, each completed a course and graduated from Worsham School of Mortuary Science in Chicago. Harlow joined his father and Uncle John and became a member of the firm in 1917. After Lester's gradu- ation in 1931, he purchased his father's interest. George A. Stensel died in 1933. In 1932. Vernell bought one-third interest in the firm The three brothers have established fu- neral homes at LeRoy, Bellflower and Mansfield which they operate. In 1952, they observed the 85th anniversary of the institution and paid honor to the founder, John Stensel, Sr., and his sons, George and John. At the same time the newly remodeled and handsome building in Farmer City was opened to the public during two days of reception. A funeral director from Springfield, when asked to give his comment on Stensels' Funeral Home re- plied, "I have seen larger ones, but never one more beautiful in decor or with better equipment." And so it is that such progress has been made, growing from the early efforts of a young man from Prus- sia, proving that "Great Oaks from Little Acorns Grow." ISAAC ALBRIGHT AND SON, ANDY, SAW HARNESS BUSINESS GROW AND DIE In the yester-years of fast stepping horses, the flash of a classy runabout pleased the eye of gallant blades and coy young maidens in Farmer City, just as much as a deluxe V8 1962 super sports model would fascinate them today. In those old days, harness makers made harness by hand, sit- ting many weary hours at their last and sewed until one would imagine them almost blinded. They sold harness in enormous quantities . . for a gay youth required a new set of driving harness every year. Isaac Albright located here in 1869. He and his family drove with a team and wagon from Urbana where he had had a harness business for several years. Isaac's son, Andy Albright, learned the trade when quite young and owned his own shop for 10 years and then for 17 years he managed the M. D. Eppstein Harness Shop. Henry Mitchell also had a thriving harness busi- ness for over 50 years in Farmer City too. Today, close by the sites of the long-gone harness shops, roar the giant vehicles of commerce . . . they al- most mock the horse and buggy days of yore. GARVER CITIZENS No review, even in brief would be even fairly complete without mention of the Garver name and of the Garver Drug Store which flourished here for over 60 years. Chris and Sam Garver were the founders and then John U. Garver was in the busi- ness for a number of years. It was John Garver who brought Tom Johnson, a lovable, energetic, young Negro porter here where he remained for 40 years. In that time, he was the only representative of the African race in Farmer City. Frank (better known as Bennie) Garver was a colorful Farmer City character. In addition to his drug store he had many interests ... a long time member of the Farmer City Band, a sports enthus- iast, being one of the early golfers. Those who, are fortunate enough to have lived in Farmer City during his life will never forget his trumpeting of "School Days" as he stood just outside his drug store on the first day of September every year. LEN C. GLESSNER Len C. Glessner was an early editor and pub- lisher of the Farmer City Journal. Though he did not remain here for a long period of time he re- mained ever loyal to Farmer City and proved it by frequent visits to his "Old Home Town" whenever possible. Perhaps one reason for his attachment was the fact that he married a Farmer City girl, Emma Chapdelear. Many years ago Glessner found- ed a factory in Findlay, Ohio for the manufacture of Dr. Drake's Glessco Cough Syrup. It proved a successful venture and the said cough syrup is still sold in drug stores; L. C. Glessner is deceased. His interest in Farmer City was demonstrated in 1937 when he contributed $500 for the Centennial Fund. JEWISH FAMILIES IN FARMER CITY High on the roll of leading citizens stand the names of prominent Jewish families, who have been identified with the business life of Farmer City since the very early 70's and who have been lead- ers in the civic and social life of the community since that time. The list of Jewish people associated in business here for any length of time is as follows: Issac Stern, Henry Levy, Gus Levy, Abe Eppstein, Jacob Bach, Moses D. Eppstein, Lep Shulhafer, Max Nat- han, Sam Meyer, Louis Meyer, Joseph Meyer, Hy- man Levy, Julius Frank, Bert Hirsch, Joseph Epp- stein, Sam Somner, Delmar Eppstein, Edwin and Miriam Eppstein. Edwin Eppstein owns and ope- rates the Shoe Store which his father, M. D. Epp- stein, purchased from Cumming Brothers in 1896. ILLS, ACHES AND CURES Doctors and Dentists played important roles in the lives of early citizens. Old time medical men were not spoken of as "physicians" but more simp- ly "doctors", or more than likely "Doc." Dr. John Warner practicing medicine in 1840 was perhaps the first permanently located here. He was fol- lowed by Dr. John Clauser, Dr. Loda, Dr. J. W. Woodward, Dr. Amos S. Norris, and his son, Dr. 15 s, I upplying plenty of low cost electricity to rural Americans is just one of our big jobs. Another equally important function, we believe, is paying our own way in the nation's economy. We think we've done this mighty well, and here's why: Even though we serve widely scattered consumers, America's Rural Electric Systems — 1,000 strong, across the land — have already paid over $1 billion in principal and interest on their $3'/> billion in REA loans. Best of all, every penny of this billion dollars — paid into the U. S. Treasury — came from the light bills of the consumer-owners of these rural electrics! This, we submit, is a credit record second to none — another reason why we say that rural electrification is good for all Americans 1 CORN BELT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, Inc. BLOOM1NGTON, ILLINOIS i i i i i i i i i i L~ 1G Amos L. Norris, Dr. John Gardiner, Dr. H. C. Lit- tlejohn, Dr. M. C. Mclntire, Dr. L. Stone Kelley and Dr. J. A. Davis. In more recent years the community had the services of Dr. Miner, Dr. R. M. Hathaway, Dr. C. W. Hull. Dr. J. E. Nienhaus. O. W. E. Nowlin, M.D. and Wilfred J. Nowlin, M.D., sons of J. A. Nowlin, D.O., who founded the Nowlin Clinic, and Robert Bartholomew, M.D. Those presently prac- ticing in Farmer City are John W. Sellett, M.D., Dedra Sellett. M.D., George E. Castrovillo, M.D. and Wilmer Amacher, DC. Dentists who practiced their profession in Farm- er City were Dr. M. T. Mace, Dr. Josslyn, Dr. Frank Kimler, Dr. Carl Nydegger, Dr. A. M. Wilkes, Dr. I. C Morrical and Dr. C. C. Schafer. At the present and for some few years past, Dr. C. M. Duff and Dr. F. R. Stoughton have maintained dental prac- tice here. The First National Bank of Farmer City was organized in 1874. Among those active in the 70's and 80's were J. H. Harrison, Cary Burford, F. F. Gay and Frank Miller. Isaac F. Houseman began his long service with the bank in 1886. R. O. Craw- ford, George Chisholm, Jacob Swigart, Charles Swigart and Earl C. Murphey served as presidents. David L. Fuller became cashier in 1894. The bank's charter expired in 1894 and a new bank was or- ganized. According to National Bank laws some change, slight though it was, had to be made in the name. So the Old First National Bank of Farm- er City was adopted. At one time, this bank paid dividends as high as 10 per cent per annum, doing this for a long period of years. The Farmer City Currency Exchange, operated by Ross Rinehart, served the community from 1932 until the Farmer City State Bank was organized in 1941. TILE and BRICK FACTORIES Old Timers well remember the Major Tile fac- tory up by the railroad's intersection. It was a beehive of industry when every farmer was tiling his land. Today, there are no tile factories in cen- tral Illinois and farmers wishing to improve their drainage, purchase "shipped-in drain tile." Then there was the Arbogast Brick Yard just at the foot of South Main Street, established by Daniel Arbogast who performed a great service in supplying brick, homemade and home-burned, for a multitude of purposes. The brick factory was later operated by his sons, Walter and Sherman Arbogast and their brother-in-law, A. D. Webb. This firm did a large contracting business as well. EARLY BANKS MARKED FARMER CITY'S THRIVING BUSINESS CENTER A privately owned bank was established on the present site of the Ross C. Swartz Agency by George and Oscar Thomas and John Weedman in 1876. John Weedman bought out his partners and operated the bank for a number of years under the name of John Weedman, Banker. Weedman Sta- tion, three miles northeast of Farmer City, was named in honor of John Weedman whose farm was close by. After John Weedman's death in 1885 the bank was incorporated as the John Weedman National Bank with Mathias Crum as president, Cassius M. C. Weedman (son of the founder) as cashier and V. S. Lindsey was the vice-president. In 1886, George M. Kincaid entered this bank as bookkeep- er and soon became cashier, a position which he held until he retired from active duty in 1931. George Kincaid gave about 45 years to the service of this bank. Frank L. Weedman, a grandnephew of the bank's founder, entered the bank in 1893 as clerk and served many years as assistant cashier and cashier. He was in the bank about 40 years. The entire block of business buildings, including the John Weedman National Bank, was destroyed by fire in August 1994. The bank opened the next morning in the McMurray building across the street. A. T. Kincaid served as the bank's vice- president for many years. When Mathias Crum re- tired in 1897, William W. Murphey was elected president and in 1922 was succeeded by Carl O. Gillespie. John Kendall, Jr ;tered the bank as a clerk ,as did also Robert deary. The John Weed- man National Bank for many years was one of the large successful banks in this part of Illinois, pay- ing dividends as high as 14 per cent per annum. In its most prosperous days, it had capital of $75,000, surplus $75,000 and undivided of as much as $50,000. FARMER CITY STATE BANK The Farmer City State Bank was the first bank in Illinois organized under the law permitting towns under 2,000 population to organize a bank with $25,000 capital stck. The bank was chartered on October 29, 1941, and opened for businesss on No- vember 1, 1941 in the building formerly occupied by the Old First National Bank, which closed on March 30, 1930. The bank had $25,000 capital and $5,000 surplus and opened with the following offi- cers Harry C. Gring, president; Grover W. Watson, vice-president; E. R. Rinehart, cashier, and George W. Monen, assistant cashier. The directors were Harry C. Gring, Grover W. Watson, Lyle G. Her- rick, Carl L. Monen, Lee B. Sprague, Ralph E. Augustus and E. R. Rinehart. The assets at the close of business November 1, 1941, were $202,000. In August 1949, M. B. Drake of Cornland was named vice president succeeding Grover W. Watson and joined the bank as an active officer. Other officers then were Harry C. Gring, president; E. R. Rinehart, cashier, and Wanda Burton and Ralph Moreland as assistant cashiers. Mr. Moreland hav- ing come into the bank in 1948 and Wanda in 1947. The directors were Gring, Drake, George Drake, Cornland; Lyle Herrick, Rinehart and Augustus. Lott C. Howe was elected as a director in Janu- ary 1950, and as president in December 1950, on the resignation of Harry C. Gring. At this time, Gring and Augustus both resigned as directors and Beryl W. Rutledge and David A. Frederickson were elected to fill those vacancies. In March 1952, the bank purchased the building to the south from M. T. Collier and Lester J. Kirby and started plans for remodeling. The grand open- ing of the present building was held on February 12, 1953. Edward M. Vance came into the bank on Janu- ary 30, 1953 as assistant cashier and was promoted to assistant vice-president in January, 1960, and in January, 1962, was advanced to vice-president. Richard Drake was elected as a director in June, 1954, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Lyle G. Herrick in April, 1954. On occasion of the retirement of E. R. Rinehart on October 31, 1958, Richard Drake was elected executive vice- president, cashier and trust officer. Ralph More- land retired on May 31, 1960. Dean Bright, whose home town is Bellflower, joined the bank as vice- president in June, 1960. In January, 1962, he was given the added title of cashier. Robert Drake was elected as a director after the death of M. B. Drake on August 12, 1961. The bank has enjoyed a steady growth and ranks well with all neighboring banks. Present of- ficers are George E.. Richard K. and Robert E. Drake, Bright, Frederickson, Howe and Rutledge. 17 — --- SALUTES --- FARMER (ITY r ILL. on their 125th Anniversary 18 PRESENT JOURNAL BUILDING BUILT BY E. S. WICHTMAN IN 1952 FARMER CITY NEWSPAPERS Many newspapers have been printed in Farmer City However, The Journal holds the longest record of publication, as shown by the following dates: Republican — 1869-1872. Established by John S. Harper, sold to Cummings and Wilkerson, name changed to Orrhorspor. Lasted only six months. Real Estate Index — 1871. W. H. Anderson, pub- lisher. Advertising sheet, brief existence. Journal — 1872-1962. Established by J. S. Harp- er. Seventeen owners to present date. Herald — 1873-1875. Established by W. C. De- vore and Paul J. Clifford. Sold in two years to Wetzell Brothers. Six weeks later again taken over by W. C. Devore. Eagle — 1874. Established by J. S. Harper, soon sold to C. W. Armstrong. Brief existence. Reporter — 1878. Albion Smith, publisher. De- stroyed by great fire of 1879. Public Reaper — 1878-1892, Wesley Clearwater, publisher; R. M. Ewing, editor. In 1881, L. Griffith, publisher, and Reuben Clearwater, editor, moved the plant to Clinton. It was moved back to Farmer City a year later by Ewing who sold to Frank Gillespie. There were other changes in ownership in 1890 and in 1892 was moved to Urbana by Harry and Will Altizer. The Sun — 1890'$. Lewis Erler and E. L. Hen- dricks. The Farmer City News — J. D. Clevenger, editor and publisher in existence only a few weeks in the spring of 1917. POST OFFICE -SOME FIRSTS POST OFFICE The first Farmer City Post Office was in the home of Dr. A. L Norris, Sr. on West Water Street (the present site of the Harlow Stensel home and the Dick McKinleys home). The post office was for a time in the rear of the Davidson's Grocery (the present site of the Frederickson Furniture store). Once it was in the old McMurray building, (site of the present post office.) For a few years it was in the present Library building. Rural delivery was started in 1902 and those early carriers experi- enced rough going during the winter snows, the spring thaws and the summer dust. City delivery was inaugurated in 1921. Herman R. Savage, Jr., is the postmaster now. The number of employees required to receive and distribute the mail in the post office, now rated as Second Class is as fol- lows: two office clerks, three regular rural car- riers, three substitute rural carriers, two city car- riers and one substitute city carrier. SOME FIRSTS IN FARMER CITY First Radio, owned by Irvin Call — 1926. First Television Set, owned by Jake Young — 1948. First Ham Radio, owned by Eddie Eppstein — 1938 First Telephone, E. S. McClure & Co.— 1894. First Beauty Shop, in Wilson & Watson Milli- nery Store. First Beauty Operator, Mae Wolfe — 1923. First Permanent Wave Machine, owned by Osee L Stensel in O. C. Beauty Shop— 1925. First "Soft Ice Cream" Stands, "Pinkie-Winke", Joe Price, "Swirley Top", Mclntyre and Byers —1953. First Super Market, Jesse Hammer and Mervin Gardner, IGA, 1960. First Color TV, Roger Curtis — 1956. First Automobile, Clyde Huddleston— 1904. First Electric Lights, installed by Abe Evans — 1891. First City Well, sunk by Charles Everett— 1891. 19 9*0*0*0 * 0*0*0*0 * *00 *0*0** •*0*0* *0*0m + SEARS ROEBUCK AND CO. CONGRATULATIONS FARMER CITY on Your 125th Anniversary MAY SEARS CONTINUE TO SERVE YOU BETTER IN THE NEXT 125 Years 322 N. Hickory Champaign, III, 356-2531 20 KENTUCKIANS MOVE TO ILLINOIS Richard D. Webb of Shelby County, Ky., was attracted to Illinois through some means in 1833, and with his family was the fifth settler to locate in Hurley's Grove. He bought 400 acres of govern- ment land south of Farmer City and built a large log cabin on ground where Maple Grove Cemetery is located. There, the Webb children were reared and became well known and respected citizens of the entire community. Following his brother-in-law, R. D. Webb, Charles C. Watson, a native of Bourbon County, Ky., trav- eled to this vicinity via covered wagon in 1847. With him were his wife, Evaline C, and 12-year-old son, William W. Some pieces of furniture were se- curely fastened on the sides of the wagon, includ- ing two small hickory rockers, handmade by C. C, which are still in good condition and in possession of the craftsman's granddaughter, Lucy A. Watson. Although a cabinet maker by trade, C. C. Watson bought land south of Farmer City and was en- gaged in farming for 40 years. He and his wife were charter members of the First Christian Church erected in Farmer City (then Mount Pleasant) which was organized in 1864. R. D. WEBB THE FARMER CITY FAIR That was the entertainment deluxe for the Farm- er City people of the 80's and 90's. In those early years, there were said to have been 10,000 persons in attendance on Thursday afternoons, when there were acres and acres of buggies, carriages and spring wagons, with the horses tethered to the wheels, "parked" on the fair grounds and on all adjacent streets. Each vehicle had a chalk-scratched number on the dash board for identification. Fam- ily season tickets were $2. Most folks brought picnic dinners. Joseph G. Moore (to help win votes for his political candidate), decided to feed the mul- titude at the Fair one day. Whole beeves were roasted over open pits. All comers were welcome and each received a wooden plate holding a hunk of beef, a bun, and a pickle and a tin cup of coffee, (not instant). 'Tis said that over 10,000 persons partook of the famous barbecue. The present gen- eration is still being benefitted by the generosity of the bequest of Joseph G. and Sabina Moore to our High School. Amid the heat, flies and dust, the carnival spirit prevailed at the Fair. Chariot races were an early attraction, when a man driving four black horses abreast and a lady driving a chariot pulled by four white horses swept around the old half-mile track. 'Twas a glimpse of the Roman days from the Life of Ben Hur brought right down to Farmer City. Horse racing was, of course, a major attraction at the old Fair, featuring harness and running races. The grounds boasted a dining hall, screened with mosquito netting, a floral hall and a grand stand. Across the track was a band stand and a high booth for the judges. The red lemonade, the salt water taffy, the side shows, the fakes, the quacks which congregated at the old fair . . . the band playing between races . . . and a few balloon ascensions . . . all these are twisted about in the convolutions and the sutures, or something like that in your brain cells as you recall the old Farmer City Fair. The recollection of how Carl O. Gillespie, as grand marshal, rode up and down on the race track, a perfect horseman on his prancing coal black charg- er, and adorned with a red sash has remained with countless numbers of people as the richest memory of the old Farmer City Fair. The first annual exposition of the modern Fair was held at the present location in 1905. Harness and running races were featured as was a society horse show. G. W. Hoffman was president and H. S. Farmer was secretary. In 1933, the fourth stock show and agricultural fair was held in Weedman Park. That year C. O. Gillespie was president and W. F. Peterson was secretary. In 1936, the fair moved to 40 acres ad- joining Highway 48 (now Highway 54) with the slogan "Bigger and Better." A 4-H beef show was added to the open show that year. Ross Rinehart became secretary. Midget auto races began that year to continue for a number of years. The races' luck with the weather was phenomenal. A standing comment in the community was "it won't rain to- night, the midgets are running." Auto racing of one kind or another has continued to this day even following the move of the grounds back to the original and current location in 1943 where new lights were added in 1953. The gain in stature of the fair can be seen in the comparison of recent reports. In 1950, exhibi- tors were paid $14,588 in premiums while In 1961, they were paid $20,130. State aid has increased in that period from $8,500 to $10,732 and the value of improvements from $25,000 to $65,000. The num- ber of entries has increased from 1,695 to 2,763. Currently Willard Thomas is president and Robert G. Gammage is secretary. 21 " ■**■<*•■++*** ' I „i m-AnU 125 YEARS IS A LONG TIME WE HAVE "BEEN ON MAIN STREET' — ALMOST HALF THAT TIME (NOW 56 YEARS) Back In The "GOOD OLD DAYS" We Sold COOK STOVES - ICE BOXES - WASHBOARDS - HARNESS 17 For 72 Century We Have Seld MONOGRAM STOVES and ECLIPSE MOWERS I3t HER APPl & DICK COLLIER, OWNER • MGR. SEE THE 1962 Frigidaire Air Conditioners — here now — For x /\ Century We Nsve Sold FRIGIDAIRE SHELLANE GAS HOOKER PAKNT EUGENE KEMF 1 SERVICE MRS. IRENE KNISLEY HOUSEWARES - WALLPAPER ^^•^-^'^^^^^^^^^^ ----^ *g CASE NEW IDEA FISHER EQUIPMENT (0. NEW, USED and ABUSED FARM MACHINERY Farmer Cm ill. E. C. FISHER 22 CITY LIGHT PLANT GRAIN OPERATIONS A bronze plaque on the present light plant ;• claims the fact that the firs' light plant was i in 1888 We are sure thai date is correct because thorough investigation would have preceded the casting of the bronze tablet in 1945. However, a nance No. 9 does grant a franchise to one Abraham Evans to erect a l'ght plant and the city streets and alleys for his poles. Ordinance No. 9 was passed May 6, 1891. Ordinance No. 25 fixing the rates at 75 cents per month for each 16 watt bulb and $1 25 a month for each 32 watt bulb reflects the fact that ttu City owned the plant by the date of this Ordinance, 1895. It is reported that the city purchased the light plant from Evans. The first plant was steam operated and the early steam engineers (it is reported^ were, in the order of their service to the City, Charlie Johnson, Elzie Pcttit, Ed Conover, Charles McMurphy, Mar- shall Johnson. Chester Lentz, Jim Thompson and Oliver Guthridge. It is further reported that in those early days, there were four wards and the old steam whistle blew the number of the ward for each fire. Charles McMurphey blew the steam whistle for the last time to welcome in the year 1933. That was the year of the controversy of steam-vs.-diesel. In 1934, the plant had two generators — one steam and one diesel. In 1935, the plant went com- pletely diesel. In 1945, the old concrete smokestack was torn down and the original wooden structure replaced with the present structure. The Kuhne-Simmons Construction Co. erected the building under the supervision of the Miller Engineering Service. F. M. Stutzmen was mayor and Ronald Savage was the clerk. The Aldermen were J. B. Dawson, T. J. O'Mallie, Frank Mclntyre, Ralph Stagen, Bud Mc- Conkey and H. C. Wheeler. Each mayor and his council have contributed to the growth of the light plant. The O P. genera- tor, which today carries the bulk of the k.w.h. load, was added during the administration of Dr. H. R. Hester (1949-1953). The new O. P. generator went into operation in April, 1953 During the administration of Mayor Marshall F Jones (1957-1961), the present cooling system was added. At present, the plant saves tax dollars by ab- sorbing the cost of street lighting, park lighting and the electric requirements of the Municipal Building (City Hall). Nothing reflects the changing times like our light plant. In 1907, Ed Conover and Charles Mc- Murphy petitioned the council for a raise from $45 a month to $60, reflecting a monthly payroll at that time of $90 per month. In 1961, the monthly plant payroll was $1,250. The electric rates, however, have been in the reverse. In 1936, the rates were set at 10 cents for the first 10 k.w.h., 8 cents for the next 20 k.w.h., 5 cents for the next 30 k.w.h. and all over 60 k.w.h. 3 cents. The present rates are 7 cents for the first 30 k.w.h., 5 cents for the next 70 k.w.h., 3 cents for the next 150 k.w.h. and all over 250 k.w.h. 2 cents. Users of residential electricity using over 280 k.w.h. per month are actually paying less today than they would have paid in 1936. It is reported that when Abraham Evans had his light plant complete and the electric lights on Main Street, a platform and chair-like throne was built and Evans was carried down Main Street on the shoulders of delighted citizens. Electricity was a luxury then — it is a necessity now. As early as 18'< I, A T. Peckham of Pr ividei R. L, had In Farmer City. Willi. W "Billy" Alder came in the early 70's Me m a big man in the grain trade, so large indeed that he gave up local grain buying about 1890 and entered the wholesale grain trade handling g\ in carload lots. He opened up a grain offia d< town and the Farmer City citizens felt proud in- deed to have at least one wholesale business in town. Lewis Ludington owned a lumber busirn here and in 1878 began buying and shipping grain Morton Kent allied with lumber and grain Farmer City until 1892. In the late 90's and early 1900's, there were five elevators and one feed mill in Farmer C Two elevators north of Illinois Central depot, the present Farmer City Grain Co., and two on North Main St. The mill stood where Pre-Fab office for repair shop is today. The elevator, where present stock yard is, burned down. The one across the track from Illinois Cen- tral depot was torn down and part of it was moved and attached to present Farmer City Grain Co. elevator. The two elevators on North Main Street burned. The one on east side never was rebuilt — one on west side was rebuilt and before it was finished it burned, but they went right on — built another, which was the one that burned in 1946. Then the present concrete one and mill were built. In 1961, the Pacific Grain Co. built a large concrete elevator on private ground. The two concrete elevators have a capacity of over 600,000 bushels. The present three elevators, Federal-North Iowa Grain Co., Farmer City Grain Co., and Pacific Grain Co., are equipped with unloading, drying and cleaning machinery. Not only the grain of the sur- rounding territory is received, but hundreds of car- loads of grain are shipped in by rail, processed for eastern markets and export, which makes Farmer City outstanding in the grain business. MAYORS AND CLERKS OF FARMER CITY Here is a partial list of elected officials in two offices of Farmer City dating from 1873. Mayors were David Kelley, 1873; W. F. Calhoun, 1875; Mathias Crum, 1875; W. W. Alder, 1877; I. N. Lawman, 1879; P. V. Cool (protem), 1880; C. M. Welch, 1881; William Haynie, 1882; P. M. Holloway, 1883; T. S. Weedman, 1885; John Cusey, 1887; T S. Weedman, 1889; Frank P. Sangster, 1891; E. C. Swigart, 1899; C. D. Rock, 1907; Charles P. Arbogast, 1909; John W. Kendall, 1911; David L. Fuller, 1915; John W. Kendall, 1917; G. B. Shere, 1925; John W. Kendall, 1929; W. F. Peterson, 1933; R. E. Augustus, 1941; Wayne M. Fuller, 1945; F. M. Stutzman, 1945; H. R. Hester, 1949; F. M. Stutz- man, 1953; Marshall F. Jones, 1957, and H. R. Hester, 1961 (current). Clerks were W. H. Anderson, 1873; J. B. Lewis, 1874; Thompson Bosler, 1875; George B. Dickey. 1876; Lewis Lovington, 1877; A. L Hathaway, 1879; W. J. Morgan, 1881; W. S. Young, 1881, John F. Hoyt, 1893; Lott R. Herrick, 1894; C. M. C. Weed- man, 1895; Charles Webb, 1898; E. W. Dunham, 1899; V. E. Brown, 1901; Henry Funk. 1903; Tom Young, 1907; David Mitchell, 1909; Fred H. Reed. 1913; Walt Taylor, 1917; Glen W. Downs, 1933; Ronald Savage, 1945; Arthur Bates, 1948; Eva A. Robison, 1953; John E. Jones. 1957. and John H Collier, 1958 (current). 23 * REGISTERED ANGUS * Breeding Stock For Sale At All Times --- CONSTRUCTION --- DRAGLINE -- BULLDOZER -- BACK HOE GRAVEL and GRAVEL EQUIPMENT . . . FOR EXCAVATING ROAD CONSTRUCTION - STUMP REMOVAL CLEARING and CLEANING - RACE TRACKS - FARM PONDS (. E. SIMPSON and SONS TELEPHONE 4057 FARMER CITY, ILL. DELAND LOCKER i \ • CUSTOM SLAUGHTERING • COMPLETE PROCESSING FOR LOCKERS ii HOME FREEZERS — CURING ii * RETAIL MEATS -- ALL KINDS * ii ii By Order I KALLEMBACH - NORTON : PHONE 105R2 DELAND. ILL. I 24 HISTORY OF CITY HALL City Hall was erected in 1904 by the W. J. Arbo- gast Construction Co. just south of Young's Co- lumbian Opera House. A two-story brick building — the second floor was built for and dedicated to the City Library and firemen's recreation room — the first floor accommodated the firefighting equip- ment, city office and council room, police depart- ment, jail and repair shop for city equipment. E. C. Swigart was mayor at the time and H. Funk was clerk with Aldermen being R. K. Fau- cett, \V. H. Robison, J. W. Harper, T. E. McConkey, P. Covey and W. R. Pryer. When the John Weedman Bank ceased to ope- rate, some of the bank equipment was obtained for the use at City Hall. It is reported that the counter and change machine and possibly the clock pres- ently in use came from the Weedman Bank. In the early 30s, the fire fighting equipment was moved to its present location. The library was eventually moved. At one time, the upper floor of the City Hall housed a W.P.A. serving room. At present, this upper floor is used by the American Legion Auxiliary for housing used clothing and hos- pital equipment. This has been under the super- vision of Mrs. Daisy Kent for the past seven years. The upper floor also houses a Boy Scout room, a After the city warehouse was built in 1957, all trucks, workshop and city water and light supplies were removed from City Hall. From the beginning of 1958 through 1961, City Hall was remodeled on the interior and an illuminated sign placed on the outside of the building, which sign informs the public that it is now the Municipal Building. During the administration of Mayor Marshall F. Jones, (1957-1961), the building was remodeled and refurnished to accommodate a police room and magistrate court, a completely mechanized city of- fice, a room for transfer of files, a council chamber and general assembly room and a Civil Defense room. The council members who assisted in the planning and organizing of this program of mod- ernization were City Clerk John H. Collier and Aldermen Lloyd Lent, George Stewart, Roy Wright, Sr., Albion Kirk, Jesse S. Hammer, Floyd Burton, Floyd King and Roy Ratcliffe. Under the adminis- tration of Mayor H. R. Hester, additional filing equipment and a tape calculating machine has been added. The citizens of Farmer City are justly proud of the beauty and usefulness of the Municipal Building. SEWAGE DISPOSAL PLANT In the beginning, all waste from the city sewer system was dumped into Salt Creek. Throughout the years, the amount of sewage dumped into Salt Creek increased until a complaint was lodged with the state charging "stream pollution". There fol- lowed an order from the state that the city sewage was to be disposed of otherwise. The city's answer to this order was the present Sewage Disposal Plant. During the administration of Mayor F. M. Stutz- man (1953-1957), Ordinance No. 286, calling for a special election to authorize the issuing of $125,000 worth of general obligation bonds, was passed and signed into law by Mayor Stutzman and attested to by City Clerk Eva A. Robison, May 14, 1956. The special election was held June 5, 1956, and the bond issue authorized. One hundred twenty-three bonds were issued bearing interest of 3% per cent. The last bond is scheduled for liquidation in 1976. The amount was insufficient and on February 11, 1957, Ordinance No. 291 was duly passed and signed into law by Mayor Stutzman and attested to by City Clerk Eva A. Robison authorizing the flag room and a room for the Jaycees. issuing of $112,000 in revenue bonds. A federal grant to the city of $49,751.23 made the entire amount unnecessary. January 16, 1958, Ordinance No. 304 was duly passed and signed into law by Mayor Marshall F. Jones and attested to by City Clerk John H. Collier reducing the issue of 1957 revenue bonds to $70,000. The present plant, which has the capacity of 5,000 population, was completed at a bonded debt cost to the city of only $193,000, thanks to the federal grant. The plant was built by the West Construction Co., Bloomington. It was engineered by Farnsworth and Wylie, also of Bloomington. The city bonds were handled by Benjamin and Lang, Chicago. The fol- lowing city officials contributed an enormous amount of time and consideration to the erecting and financing of the plant — Mayors F. M. Stutz- man and Marshall F. Jones; City Clerks Eva A. Robison, John E. Jones and John H. Collier; City Treasurer E. R. Rinehart; City Attorney O. A. Peithman, and Aldermen R. R. Robison, R. Shubert, C. A. Roberts, R. E. Wright, Sr., H. T. Clarno, A. Kirk, J. S. Hammer, F. E. Burton, L. W. Lent and George Stewart. The plant was put into operation on July 1, 1958, under the supervision of City Superintendent Dean Schmitz and was dedicated by an open house August 10, 1958. One hundred fifty-one people sign- ed the guest book that day. In 1961, the Illinois Department of Sewage and Industrial Wastes com- plimented and commended Supt. Schmitz by award- ing a trophy to the City of Farmer City for the best run and regulated plant in class "D" and "E" for the year 1960. CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT It is reported by our senior citizens that before the time of our City Police Department, the City had a night watchman financed by merchant dona- tions or perhaps a merchant assessment. At one time (as our informant states), part of the duties of the night watchman was to trim, fill, light and extinguish the kerosene street lights. By March, 1948, the city had established by many years of precedence a police force of two regular police officers (one on duty daytime, one on dutuy nighttime). The day duty officer had the additional duties of meter reading and dog catch- ing. In 1957, the police were relieved of the duty of meter reading. The first squad car was purchased from the DeWitt County Sheriff's office in 1951. It was a 1947 Ford equipped with two-way radio. In 1955, the city purchased an electric speed timer. In 1960, a radar unit was purchased for the purpose of checking and controlling speeding on the city streets. In 1962, a Citizens' Band Radio unit was in- stalled in the squad car, City Hall and the Light Plant for the purpose of better serving the citizens of Farmer City. At present, the City has a police force of two regular officers, a nicely furnished police court- room in City Hall, and a squad car equipped with radio contact with the city, the counuty and the state. AN EARLY MEMORY In 1869, an eight-year-old boy, Harry Watson, was dispatched by his father to the "store" in Farmer City to buy turpentine which was needed for a sick horse. By the time the lad had reached the store he could not remember the name of the medicine. The merchant tried in vain to help by naming various remedies. The revealing clue came when Harry said. "When you twist the cork, it squeaks." 25 YOUNG'S BARBER SHOP ED YOUNG JAKE YOUNG CURLY McNUTT ON MAIN STREET IN FARMER CITY GRIER'S-A FINE PLACE TO EAT IS PROUD TO BE A PART OF FARMER CITY AND TO SHARE IN THE 125th ANNIVERSARY OF ITS FOUNDING . . . IN THE MODERN SPIRIT, GRIER'S OFFERS A VARIED MENU IN A MODERN AIR-CONDITIONED ATOMSPHERE DESIGNED TO MEET MODERN TATSES GRIER'S RESTAURANT JUNCTION — HIGHWAYS 150 and 54 FARMER CITY, ILL. 26 HISTORY OF THE FARMER CITY COMMUNITY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT The necessary preliminary planning and think- ing was done in the winter of 1957-1958. The orig- inal petition for the formation Of the Fanner City Community Fire Protection District was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DeWitt County, Illi- nois, on February 1. 1958, After the required notice, a hearing was held and an order entered by the County Court of DeWitt County approving the pe- tition and ordering an election, whether such pro- posed territory should be organized as a fire pro- tection district. The clcetion was held on the 5th day of April, 1958, and the voters approved the formation of the disl net by approximately 5-1. On April 21, v 1958, Judge William C. Calvin ap- pointed Vernell Kent, J. A. Little and Frank L. Simpson to serve as trustees of the newly-formed fire protection district. The trustees are responsible for the government and control of the afiairs and business of the fire protection district. The original trustees were appointed for one, two and three years. The length of term was determined by lot at the first meeting. The trustees served from the first Monday of May next after their appointment and until their successors are appointed by the County Court and qualified. As the original ap- pointments expired, the trustees were appointed to serve three-year terms. Ortheldo A. Peithman is attorney for the district. At the first meeting of the trustees in May of each year, they elect one of their number to serve as president, one as secretary, and one as treasurer for the district. Each trustee is bonded under a bond which the County Court set at $2,000. They also select an attorney for the fire protection dist- rict to serve for the ensuing year. The trustees appoint a fire chief and such fire- men as may be necessary for the district who shall hold office during the pleasure of the trustees. The duties and compensation of all officers and em- ployees are determined by the trustees. When the district was first organized, the trus- tees were faced with two problems: First, what equipment was needed? And second, how could the equipment be paid for, because no tax money would be available for 15 months after the district was formed? The trustees made a careful survey of the equip- ment and buildings used by other fire protection districts in central Illinois which had comparable conditions and requirements as this one. The trus- tees were guided very much by the successes and mistakes of other fire districts. The trustees took bids on all needs except small hardware. The equipment and building of the Farm- er City Volunteer Fire Department was purchased, and the building was completely repaired and re- built as a community project. The trustees had the old fire house repaired, took out the wooden floor, filled the basement as a community project, and replaced the wooden floor with a concrete floor with drains and water pipes installed. This was necessary to accommodate the heavy equipment needed to serve a rural and urban fire protection district. The two main units of equipment purchased were one — 750 gpm. pumper, booster and hose truck fully equipped; and one — 1,000 gallon tanker boost- er and hose truck fully equipped with 100 gpm. pump. It was a day of community pride when the Farmer City Community Fire Protection District had the open house for everyone in the area to inspect the rebuilt and the new equipment. But how was this financed? The trustees went to the Farmer City State Bank and discussed the annual taxing ability of the Farmer City Commu- nity Fire Protection District and the financial prob- lems of tin- dim net. They asked the bank to loan the districl the needed money to get services stall- ed, which the bank has done at what the believe to be a saving to the district. Hie trustees decided on a fiscal year for the dist- rict from .July 1 to June 30. This seemed to fit into the tax income year. The district serves an area around Farmer City — m03l of the territory is in DeWitt County, but small portions of Piatt and McLean Counties are included also. Twenty-four volunteer firemen serve the district. They receive no salary, but are allowed small lees for attending training meetings. The maximum tax per year has been levied each year to pay off the indebtedness tor the new equip- ment and for rebuilding the building. The payment to be made in July, 1962, will complete the pay- ments on the original cost. After 1962, a lower tax will be levied, which will be consistent with sound business operation. There are current operational expenses that must be met each year to have continuous adequate fire pro- tection. After public sentiment was expressed in favor of the formation of a fire protection district, the legal steps were taken as rapidly as the law would permit for the establishment of the district. The district now meets all requirements of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, and the Farmer City Commu- nity Fire Protection District is now an accredited district eligible for insurance rate reduction. The volunteer firemen have been and are doing a fine service for the people in the district. As one local citizen expressed it: "When the fire is lapping at your back door, and the firemen are there to save your home, you really appreciate what the firemen are standing ready to do for each citizen in the fire district." TRAINS — BEFORE PLANES and AUTOS Railroads may been slow coming through Farmer City, but they did eventually, and good roads they were too. The Illinois Central and the Big Four provided excellent service north, south, east and west, and often "excursions" for special occasions at very low rates. In 1904, a total of passenger trains made 20 daily stops here. In 1958, that num- ber had been reduced to six. Today two Illinois Central passenger trains stop at Farmer City, en route to Chicago and St. Louis. The New York Central (Big Four) discontinued all passenger ser- vice in 1957. Freight trains on both roads continue to give adequate service to the Federal-North Iowa Grain Co., the Farmer City Grain Co., and other shippers. AN EARLY TALE An early day temporary individual in this com- munity failed to pay his grocery bill when due, or even when long overdue. The merchant was grow- ing impatient and pressed the debtor for his pay. He received another promise which appeared to be a very sincere one, "if I live until Monday I will be here and pay every cent I owe". Monday came — and went, but no Mr. X. On Tuesday morning the creditor circulated the word that Mr. X was dead. When the report reached Mr. X he was enraged and went to "have it out" with Mr. W. who very calmly explained, "I believed you would keep your word. You vowed you would be here Monday if alive. Naturally, what else could I be sure of but that you were dead?" Mr. X. was still not calmed as he shouted, "I knew it was a lie as soon as I heard it." 27 r-— ■ FENN'S Variety Store Phone: 962-5341 LeRoy, III. ■— — — -»■"? ROY ROBERSON compliments of C & L CAFE STANLEY ALBERT TELEPHONE 2143 PRE fflB TI11SIT CO. SPECIALIZED CARRIERS BUILDINGS ANO BUILDING MATERIALS P. 0. BOX 1 46 FARMER CITY, ILL. phone SY 3939 FRANKS MKT. MAROA, ILL. OPEN - 7 A.M.-8 P.M. weekdays 7 A.M. 6 P.M. Sundays compliments of WELDON STATE BANK Weldon, III. 28 -—~ — ~± MAYOR JOHN KENDALL, ARROW, SURVEYS BRICK PAVING PROJECT IN 1911 FARMER CITY PAVING -CIVIC IMPROVEMENT Certain concrete sidewalks were put on Main Street in the early part of 1907 and proved so sat- isfactory that on Sept. 3, 1907, the City Council passed a resolution that all future sidewalks put in on petition be concrete. On May 13, 1912, Ordinance No. 108 was passed to brick-pave portions of Main Street, the public square and parts of Market Street and Plum Street. First, Ordinance No. 107 had to be passed re- lating to sewer pipe. Then, Ordinance No. 107 had to be financed and Ordinance No. Ill was later passed to finance by Special Assessment Ordinance No. 107. The estimated cost was $4,187.16. Ordinance No. 108 (to pave) was financed by Ordinance No. 112 for special assessment, esti- mated cost $21,728.04. On the 23rd day of June, 1924, the Board of Local Improvements consisting of Mayor John Kendall, Alderman Pam Covey and Alderman Abe Hall presented Ordinance No. 143 to brick-pave certain streets in Farmer City, at an estimated cost of $144,357.40. It is reported that there was a controversy of brick vs. concrete. The following Aldermen voted for the ordinance, Hall, Clarno and Covey. The following Aldermen voted against the ordinance, Schilling, Neal and Collier. Mayor Ken- dall broke the tie by voting for the ordinance. How- ever, contrary to Ordinance No. 143, concrete pav- ing was put in and the controversy must have been settled by Nov. 3, 1924, because City Clerk Walt Taylor's minutes of that date show a unanimous vote to pay the firm of Hoolbrook, Warren and Van Praag the sum of $2,165.36 for their services of surveying and making plans and specifications. In 1950, Ordinance No. 236 was passed (a street improvement bond ordinance to be brought to special election April 4, 1950). The purpose was to widen Main Street and install mercury vapor light- ing on Main Street. The citizens voted the bond issue in and 25 bonds were sold at 2 3 i per cent intcresi. The last bond was retired Jan. 1, 1961. Dr. H. R. Hester was Mayor and Arthur Bates was Clerk. The aldermen were Virgil McConkey, Homer Vance, Wayne Larison, Harold Wheeler, Thomas O'Mallie and Vernell Kent. On Sept. 14, 1950, Mayor Hester made a dedi- cation address and turned on the lights and the illumination of our Main Street became the envy of many of our neighboring towns. From the mud and dust and kerosene street lamps, a modern Main Street has developed, thanks to the dedicated people who have voted for and worked for civic improvements. PUBLIC LIBRARY Emma J. Longmate's account of the organization of the Farmer City Library, which appeared in the Centennial issue of the Farmer City Journal in 1937 furnishes the following information: The origin of the Public Library of Farmer City started in the minds and hearts of the members of the History Club and the Shakespeare Club, the two literary clubs of the city. The first books were secured by donation and were placed on shelves in the Journal office. Distribution was made on stated days by various members of the two clubs. The ladies worked feverishly staging home talent plays and other entertainments, public dinners and re- ceived special donations. In 1904, the "Library Association" was or- ganized by these two clubs. The first officers of the association were Mrs. G. W. Herrick, Mrs. M. C. Mclntire, Miss Nettie L. Mooro and Mrs. H. C. Littlejohn. The books were soon moved to the front room of the second floor of the Cily Hall. In 1914, the city took over I he library and the "mill" tax was secured and used for library expenses, includ- ing l he librarian. Miss Nettie L. Moore was the first librarian. Others who served were Bessie (Fuller) Swignrt, Osee (Mobcrly) Stensel. Frances (Wcedmani Miles, Edith Lindsey, and Ethel (Hen- der) Nordwahl. Mrs. Estella Woodman served as librarian for 31 years. On July 7, 1927, (he city pur- chased I he building on East Green Street, formerly occupied by the post office, and the library is still comfortably located in this building. Miss Edna Rock became librarian upon the death of Mrs. Weedman in July of 1951 and is currently filling that post. The current library board consists of Mrs. Rus- sell Baleman. president; Mrs. Ray Denison, vice president; Miss Patricia Weedman, Bccrclary-t treas- urer; Mrs. Myrtle Mitchell. Mrs Harlow Stensel. Mrs. Francis Hawn, Miss Clara Gardiner and Miss Adelene Holmes. The library association board is composed of Mrs. Neva Nowlin, president; Mrs George Dunn. Irpasurer; Miss Edna Rock, secrelnry; Mrs [Inrlow Slonscl, Mrs o A Peilhmnn, Mrs F. R Slough- Ion ind Mrs Lucile Wight man. 29 U congratulations KENDALL THEATRE MODEL PARIS CLEAN ERS-LAUNDERERS LET US BE A PART OF YOUR PLANNED FUTURE ... GIBSON 3edeAa£ SAVE WHERE YOUR SAYING PAYS CURRENT DIVIDEND RATE 4'/ 2 % per annum compliments of DR. JOHN SELLETT DR. DEDRA SELLETT compliments of BON AIRE INN 30 A number of special bequests have boon made in ihe past 25 years lo add to (hose during the previous existence of the library. Included are those in memory of or by Tom Johnson. 1938; Lora Wil- lis. L938; Lancaster, Estate, 1947 and Mrs L R. Herrick, on a number of occasions The latesl was StiOO granted to Ihe library from iho Thomas Fra- sier Clark Foundation. Tho cash bequests In the las) 25 yean have totalled io approximately $7,500 in addition, there have hern a number <>f individual hook bequests as memorials The Woman's Club and ihe Shakespeare Club have continued to lend supporl to the library through the years FARMER CITY'S NEWEST SCHOOL SCHOOLS IN FARMER CITY The old, old schoolhouse stood on the corner where the Fisher Equipment Co. is now located. It was in that building where Captain George W. Herrick, a Civil War veteran, taught and subse- quently married one of his pupils, Dora O. Knight, in 1870. A two-story brick school building containing eight rooms, from primary through eighth, a larger one for high school and the superintendent's office stood on East Market Street, site of the present Franklin Grade School. It was built in 1872 and was the one and only schoolhouse in Farmer City for 40 years. It was razed to erect the modern Franklin in 1912. Many of the older citizens well remember their capable first grade teacher, Mrs. Gypsy Brandon, who taught here for 24 years. It was in the old structure where C. C. Covey began his career as high school teacher and super- intendent of the grades, a position he held for 35 years, an unmatched record. His ability as an educator and disciplinarian were recognized by parents and pupils. His authority was not ques- tioned, nor his orders disobeyed. He had the re- spect of all. C. C. Covey was self-educated to a de- gree, though he attended Illinois Wesleyan and Illinois State Normal University. It was throuuh his efforts and influence that the Farmer City High School was placed on the accredited list at the University of Illinois. Since the Centennial Celebration in 1937, many interesting changes have been made in the Farmer City Schools. At the time of the last celebration, the schools were a dual system. This moans there were two school districts and two boards of educa- tion. There was no connection between the grade school and the high school. The high school was known as Moore Town- ship High School. This was formed in the year 1911. A board of education consisting of five mem- bers controlled this type of school. Tho adminis- trator was known as the principal. Oscar H. Wist- huff, who had come into the faculty in 1929. was ele-ted as principal in 1935 and remained in that position until the summer of 1948. Mrs Martha Curtis began the duties of secretary to tho princi- pal of Moore Township High School in the fall of 1945 and is still working in that position. The elementary school was under tho control of a seven-member board Tho present Franklin building was constructed in 1911. A bond issue in the amount of $25,000 was voted in order to build the original building. In 1937, J. W Price was employed as principal of the Farmer City Elementary Schools, known as 31 WEEDMAN GRAIN & COAL CO. WEEDMAN and GLENAVON, ILL. GRAIN-COAL-SEED-FEED and FERTILIZER "A FARMER'S ELEVATOR FOR FARMER'S" A SALUTE TO FARMER CITY CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES FOR THE FUTURE 125 YEARS OF PROGRESS and SERVICE . . . DeWiff County Farm Bureau DeWilf County Insurance Service DeWitt County Pool ART ROTH FERTILIZER and FEED SALES POTASH - MIXED FERTILIZERS - DRY and LIQUID NITROGEN LIME and PHOSPHATE SPREADIHG distributors for GRACE AMMONIA — LIQUID FERTILIZERS PHONE 489-3451 MANSFIELD, ILL. 32 School District No 16 In L939, a two-room ad- dition wiih basement was added to the original Franklin building Price remained principal until the summer of L943 Gene Ackerman was em- ployed as principal for the two-year period from L943-1945. Then .1 Harold Thomas was employed as principal from 1945-1947. In 1947-48, Clarence \\ Garrison headed the school as principal. This was the period in Illinois history where larger units were being formed. Schools were grabbing territory like mad. So as a rather protective measure, a Community Consolidated School was voted into existence. This district lasted only one year. On Dec 2, 1947, an election was held for the purpose of forming a Community Unit School Dis- trict. The vote was 208 to 86 in favor of the unit. On Dec. 30. 1017. an election was held to elect members to the board of education to the newly- formed Community Unit School District No. 10. The following people were elected, Eugene Hoffman, Frank Maxwell, R. E. Augustus, Willard Thomas, Keith Swigart, Bert Shubert and Mrs. Darlene Walden. These people drew lots for length of their terms. R E. Augustus was elected president and Mis Walden was elected secretary. On Jan. 28. 1948, this board met and employed J. W. Price. Charleston, formerly with the system, as the superintendent of the new unit school sys- tem. In February, 1948, Lawrence E. Smith was employed as principal of Moore High School. In March. 1948. the board employed Oliver Buck as principal of Franklin Elementary School. In the fall of 1948, all elementary children of the new unit were transported into Farmer City. All grades from one through six wpre housed in the Franklin building and the seventh and eighth grades were in Moore High School. This same year driver training was added to the high school curriculum. ADDITIONAL BUILDING The same fall (1948). a frame building was added to the brick bus garage to make room for agriculture, industrial arts and band. This was sup- posed to be a temporary building. Classrooms were put in the basement at the Franklin building. By the time school started that fall, all children were housed. In November, 1948, an election was held to de- termine whether the rural school buildings should be sold. The vote of this election was 27 yes, 3 no. The buildings were sold the next spring by the township school trustees. After the April school election in 1950, Lyle Niklaus was elected president of the board of edu- cation and Mrs. Walden continued serving as sec- retary of the board. Buck resigned as principal of Franklin and Charles Moon was employed for the term of 1950-51. On Feb. 21, 1951, the board of education adopted a set of written "Rules and Regu- lations." In the spring of 1951, Frank Maxwell was elect- ed president of the board and Mrs. Walden con- tinued as the board secretary. Charles House was employed as principal of the elementary school. House remained as principal until 1956. In December, 1952, Mrs. Paul Durbin began her work as secretary to the Superintendent of Schools, which position she still holds. Paul Durbin, who had been teaching agriculture for several years, resigned in 1953 and Eugene Elliott was employed and he is still teaching agriculture in the same old tem- porary shop. Dale Alexander was employed by this school and the LeRoy school as a speech correct ionist. This year. 1953. was the year that plans were laid for the construction of a new elementary school building. In August, 1953, the board employed At- kins, Barrow and Associates as architects. On Sat- urday. Dec 12, L953, ttie decision was made by the people of the district to build a new school. On Feb 8, 1954, bonds in the amount of (415,000 were sold tor the purpose of financing the new building. On April 12. 1954, Maurice Hurley was elected president of the board and Mrs Walden was named to continue as secretary to the board. Hurley con- tinued on the board and served as its president from 1954 until 1959. Mrs. Walden served as secretary to the board until April, 1955, when Robert Mullen took over the task for two years. In April. 1957, Lloyd Rodman was elected secretary and served one- year. In April, 1958, Paul Durbin was elected secretary to the board and is still serving in that capacity. On May 10, 1954, bids were let for the construc- tion of the new Community Grade School building. Price, who had served as superintendent of the district since its formation in 1948, resigned in June, 1955, to accept a position as superintendent of schools at Mendota, 111., where he remains. Lawrence Christopher was employed as superin- tendent in 1955 and had the task of seeing that the new building was completed and ready for use by September, 1955. This was a tremendous task. The cafeteria which had been in the high school base- ment since its beginning in 1946 was moved to the cafeteria in the new building. Mrs. Lucile Vance started as cafeteria manager in 1946 and is still in that position. The first year, 1946, about 120 stu- dents ate at the cafeteria and now about 500-550 eat. As House left the system as elementary prin- cipal in the spring of 1956, the board and Supt. Christopher employed two men to serve as teach- ing principals. Russell Garmon and Robert Horn- baker were employed as teaching principals in Com- munity Grade and Franklin Elementary respective- ly. In May, there was a referendum to permit the educational tax rate to go from $1 to $1.15 on the $100 assessed valuation. CHANEY EMPLOYED In June, 1956, Christopher resigned as unit su- perintendent to accept a position with the Singer Publishing Co. In August, 1957, Cecil F. Chaney was employed as unit superintendent and is still serving in that capacity. In the spring of 1959, L. E. Smith, principal of Moore High School for the past 12 years, retired. Smith began his teaching career in 1928 as a teacher and coach. He took over the duties as principal in 1948 with the formation of the unit district. A very colorful reception was held in his honor after the graduation exercise, at which he delivered the com- mencement address. A great many of his former students and teachers were present to help in the celebration. Many nice gifts were presented him from the classes, board, faculty, and other groups in commemoration of his 32 years of devoted ser- vice to the school system. Duane Gronau, a teacher in the system, was employed to the principalship of Moore High. In 1959, Eugene Houser was elected as president of the board of education and continues to hold that office. In the spring of 1961, both Hombaker and Gar- mon left the system Eugene Irving was employed as elementary principal of both buildings. Teachers who have been in the Farmer City School System for more than 10 years are I>eo Bray, Mrs. Mary Oeiberf. Mrs. Dottie Shaffer. Miss Ruth Schneider, Mrs. Edna Mullins. Mrs. Pauline Amnns and Mrs. Catherine Crago. The present Board of Education is as follows Eugene Houser. president: Paul K Durbin, secre- tary: Maurice Hurley. Paul Franklin. Maurice Howe. Stanley Vance, and George H. Dunn "7 «*■ 1 COMPLIMENTS OF Trenchard and Timmons FARMS DELAND, ILL. ARENDS & SONS, Inc. Gibson City, III. YOUR John Deere Dealer CONGRATULATIONS on your 125th Anniversary Celebration DeWITT COUNTY NATIONAL BANK CLINTON, ILL. SERVING THE PEOPLE OF DeWITT COUNTY SINCE 1872 . . . Member F.D.I.C. — Member Federal Reserve COMPLIMENTS OF Edwards and Roberts INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIERS, Inc. 240 EAST WABASH AVENUE PHONE: 428-7775 DECATUR, ILL. — >» BOYER HARDWARE HEATING - PLUMBING - HARDWARE PHONE: 962-4041 LEROY, ILL. dealer for OHIO DITCHERS 34 NAZARENE CHURCH — ONE OF CITY'S NEWEST CITY OF MANY CHURCHES HISTORY OF THE FIRST METHODIST CHURCH Farmer City Methodism had its beginning when pioneers from the east built their cabins and settled along Salt Creek, southwest of the present town, in what came to be called Hurley's Grove. In 1832, seven persons, Richard Kirby and wife, Dennis Hur- ley and wife, Nathan Clearwater and wife and Mrs. Julia McCord, met in the 12x10 foot cabin of Rich- ard Kirby and formed the first "class" in Meth- odism. These pioneer Methodists met in each other's homes until 1838 when a log structure was erected. It was also used for a schoolhouse. There were no ministers, but once or twice a year the church was visited by a circuit riding preacher carrying his books in saddlebags. Among these were Peter Cart- wright and the Rev. Paxton Cumming who "thun- dered forth their great gospel messages." The Rev. Cumming settled in the community and was a valu- able asset as he was not only a preacher, but a blacksmith as well. In 1843. a frame church was built just east of what is now Camp Ground Cemetery, which owes its name to the old camp meetings which were held there for about 18 years. From far and near people brought their tents and stayed for the annual 10 day meetings in the early fall. These were great socials as well as soul-stirring religious events. In 1862 the Rev. C. Arnold and the Rev. B. Bar- tholow were instrumental in building a new frame church at the foot of Plum Street in front of the City Cemetery in our town, then called Mount Pleasant, and the membership was moved there. Long revival meetings in the late winter were a feature of those days. In 1868, Mount Pleasant was renamed Farmer City and the church was no longer a part of the Clinton circuit, but a "station", one of the charges of the Champaign District. By 1888, the church had its first suggestion of a pipe organ — the old "pipe-attachment" organ that had to be hand-pumped by someone sitting at the side. The present Methodist Church, one block west of the City Park was erected in 1898-1899 during the pastorate of the Rev. A. S. Flanigan. It is a brick structure with a slate roof and beautiful stained glass windows and cost $22,000. A pipe organ was installed in 1905. Through the years repairs and improvements have been made. In 1938, major repairs were made inside and out, including painting and interior deco- rations. The parsonage, which had been purchased from B. F. Garver and was first used by the Rev. T. H. Tull family in 1912, was also remodeled in 1938. The former parsonage was on South Plum Street. On October 30, 1938, all-day homecoming rededication and 40th anniversary services were held. Assisting the local pastor, the Rev. M. S. Swisher, were the Rev. William G. Pulliam, district superintendent; the Rev. A. M. Wells, the Rev. T. H. Tull. the Rev. A. A. White and the Rev. Harmon O. Kelly. In 1939, the Uniting Conference was held in Kansas City and the three branches of Methodism, the Methodist Episcopal, the Methodist Protestant and the Methodist Episcopal South, became one — tho Methodist church. The women's organizations within the former churches also became one. to be known as the Woman's Society of Christian Service and the Wesleyan Service Guild, a vital arm of the Society. There were 155 charter members in the local society. During the pastorate of the Rev. E. O. England, the church was completely redecorated and new carpeting was laid in the sanctuary. The dining room was refinished in knotty pine. On Christmas, 1947, the tower chimes given by Benjamin F. Hun- ter in memory of his wife. Evangeline Gillespie Hunter, first rang out their call to worship. The pictures in the sanctuary, Sallman's "Head of Christ" and Hofmann's "Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane," were given by the Rev. and Mrs. E. O. England. At joyful rededication services on January 18, 1948, guest speakers were District Supt. C. C. Nordling and Bishop J. Ralph Magee. When it was found that there were structural weaknesses in the church building, the first phase of a major improvement project was undertaken and completed in 1955-1956. This included super- structure and roof repair, tuck-pointing and ex- terior painting, redecoration of the sanctuary and organ repair at a total cost of $45,739.14. On June 10, 1956, Dr. and Mrs. Albert A. Belyea were honored at the time of his retirement from the ministry after serving since 1951 in ihe local church . The beautifully redecorated sanctuary was filled to 35 WAYSIDE FURNITURE SOUTH ON U.S. 51 CLINTON, ILL. LARGEST DISPLAY of FURNITURE on one floor in Down-state Illinois . . • SPECIALIZING IN ETHAN ALLEN AND OTHER LINES OF EARLY AMERICAN FURNITURE OPEN - Monday thru Friday till 8 p. m. - Saturdays 6 p. m. WAYSIDE FURNITURE CO. FREE PARKING PHONE 497 I... - — . CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 125th ANNIVERSARY THE JOHN WARNER BANK CLINTON, ILLINOIS "SERVING THIS COMMUNITY FOR 95 YEARS" COMPLETE BANKING TRUST and FARM SERVICE Member F.D.I.C. • DRIVE IN WINDOW TELLER • 36 capacity for this occasion both sad and joyous. In 1959, during the pastorate of the Rev. Francis W. Samuelson, the second phase of church im- provement was completed. In order to make more space for a modern education program, the old balcony (familiar to old-timers) was torn out and a second floor built in what was the old Sunday School room. New stairways were built and the kitchen completely remodeled. The total cost of this phase was $47,747. In order to help raise money for these projects the choirs, under the sponsorship of Mrs. O. B. Pace, presented a minstrel show in March, 1955, a "Gay Nineties Revue" in December, 1955, and "Gay Nineties Backfire" in November, 1958. The church also had food tents at a John Deere Day and the Farm Progress Show in 1957. On July 14, 1957, the new prayer room, form- erly the northeast vestibule, was dedicated to the memory of the Rev. Earl O. England. The picture of the head of Christ in the prayer room is the one given to the church by the Rev. and Mrs. Eng- land. Mrs. England was present for the service. The prayer room was sponsored and arranged by Mrs. Paul Massock. The presentation of the "Messiah" by the choirs during the Christmas season has become an event eagerly anticipated by the church and community since its inauguration in 1957. The educational program of the church has been carried on by dedicated workers in church school, in the annual winter School of Missions, and in the organizations of the church. These include the Woman's Society of Christian Service, the Wes- leyan Service Guild, Junior and Senior Methodist Youth Fellowship and the Methodist Men's Club which was organized in 1958-1959. Two adult church school classes have been organized in recent years, the Christian Builders and the Pairs and Spares. Through the years, many faithful members have been lost because of death or removal, but new members have been received making the present membership 688. The parsonage family since 1961 has been the Rev. and Mrs. David P. Dees and their children, Mary and Rebekah. SACRED HEART PARISH Sacred Heart parish was formed about 100 years ago by a few Catholic families who use to meet in their homes to hear Mass. The Franciscan Fathers from St. Marys parish in Bloomington came to take care of their needs. As time went on, many more families moved here and built a frame church in 1882. Some of the families were the Brennans, Quinhns, Horans, Clearys, O'Mallies, To- bins, Mearas, Condons, Maloneys, Trenkles, Yea- gles, Howards, Kennedys, Dwyers, Cliffords, Mor- risseys, Gehagans and several others. By 1899, Sacred Heart was an out-mission of Gibson and Father Cannon served the parish. Through his interesting efforts and many sacrifices on the part of the parishioners the present brick, Gothic Church was built. At the time that Father Cannon was serving the Catholic people of Farmer City, the Rev. Gunn was pastor of the Christian Church and the Rev. Schuet of the Methodist. At some community gathering all three were asked to speak. Father Cannon happened to be last and began his speech — "You have heard the Gunn Schuet and now you will hear the Cannon roar." The Rev. M. J. Abbott became the first resident priest in 1901 and died 18 months later. The Rev. W. P. White followed him and during his five years here built the present rectory for $5,000. Pastors following him were the Revs. J. W. Armstrong, Beno Blasche. J. M. Fitzgerald, J. V. Greene, F. J. Schaaf, F. J. Faulstich, R. A. Schueth and the pres- ent pastor, the Rev. Thomas Carmody, who has built an addition to the rectory and just recently redecorated the church extensively. Sacred Heart parish is thankful and proud of six parishoners who have dedicated their lives es- pecially to the service of God. Three priests and three nuns. The Priests are the Rev. E. S. Dunn (deceased), the Rev. C Clifford and the Rev. Rich- ard Mullen; the nuns are Sister Virginia (Mary Yeagle), Sister Marie James (Josephine Morrissey) and Sister Pauline (Margaret Grady). The parish has now grown to about 150 families. NAZARENE CHURCH When the Rev. L. C. Brown and his family came to Farmer City in 1930 it marked the beginning of our present day Nazarene Church. He organized the membership with a small group of faithful fol- lowers. The years traveled from 1930 to 1962 and brought many changes and certainly the realiza- tion that "God moves in a mysterious way his won- ders to perform". At the time of the founding, the building located on the corner of Allen and William Sts., owned and formerly used by the Spiritualist Society, was ac- quired, and the members worshipped there until moving into the new edifice located in the Elmore Addition to Farmer City. The Rev. Brown served as pastor until Septem- ber, 1934. He was succeeded by the Rev. A. B. John- son who remained until 1936. Subesequent minis- ters were the Revs. J. O. Hoke, Fay Fouse, R. A. Noaks and Martha Whistler. As with many a church congregation, there were struggles that seemed, at times, to be unsurmount- able, but with God's leading and the wise direc- tion from the ministry the members rallied whole- heartedly and under unforseen circumstances con- quered. By 1946, the church growth created the demand for expansion. Under the leadership of the Rev. Chester Linton, the structure was raised, and a basement added which was used for a Junior Church Auditorium and two large classrooms. The Rev. Sam McKay began his pastorate in the fall of 1950 and during the following years plans began to form and a site was obtained for the pres- ent church building. Most of the labor was donated by members of the congregation and friends of the church. The first services were held August 16, 1960. Further work of erection have been completed since the dedication service was held. The present pastor is the Rev. Paul Wankel. PROGRESS AT FIRST CHRISTIAN Twenty-seven years after the establishment of the city, a group of 25 persons organized the Christ- ian Church of Farmer City. They, under the minis- try of the Rev. Dudley Downs moved into the first building, which was located on the site of Phipps Department Store. In 1886, as business began to boom along main street, it was deemed necessary to move the location of the church to the corner of Lincoln and Market. The building was remodeled in 1902 and remained much the same until de- stroyed by fire in 1932. Within 6 months the build- ing now occupying the site was completed. The Rev. Fred Harrold was called to the minis- try of the church in 1935. He continued to serve as minister until Febbruary, 1955. Under his lead- ership many improvements were made. The floors of the auditorium and endeavor room were sanded and refinished. New pews were purchased and in- stalled. The auditorium was extensively redecorated and cathedral glass was put in the windows. Throe new classrooms were built and put on the soulh end of the church, the pulpit area was remodeled and several hundred dollars work was done in the basement. 37 CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMER CITY ON ITS 125th ANNIVERSARY SEALTEST HAS BEEN SERVING THE FARMER CITY AREA FOR THE PAST 16 YEARS WITH QUALITY DAIRY PRODUCTS ... WHEN YOU WANT THE BEST get SEALTEST . . . MORGAN DAIRY PRODUCTS • HOME DELIVERY • WHOLESALE * RETAIL Telephone 5881 Farmer City, III. ) REGION NO. 19 1 1 i i '. [■ 38 ILLINOIS BEER INDUSTRY COMMITTEE S & R LIQUOR SALES COMPANY BREEN BEVERAGE COMPANY CENTRAL BEVERAGE COMPANY B & J SALES COMPANY Bloomington, 111. The Rev. Gerald Smith was called following the Rev. Harrold's resignation. He began his service in February, 1955. For a time, the only living quart- ers available were rented, thus it was deemed neces- sary to secure a parsonage. A parsonage fund was established in March, 1955, and by December of that year, there was a total of (2,800. in March, 1956, a new 3-bedroom home located on West Indi- ana Street was purchased by the church. To secure the property a loan of $8,000 was secured at the bank. Increased missionary giving was achieved dur- ing 1956 with 10 per cent of the income set aside for missions. The Rev. Smith resigned August 5, 1957, that he might establish a new church in Daytona Beach, Florida. The Rev. Eugene Reynolds was called by First Christian, beginning his pastorate in October, 1957. During the period of his service, two young mem- bers of the congregation, Richard Sprague and Leslie Parker, Jr. were ordained to the ministry. The Rev. Reynolds resigned in 1959 to accept a call to Summum, 111. The congregation was without a minister until June 1. 1960. At that time, the Rev. Ed H. Arm- strong was called, who is serving as minister at this time. The past two years have been marked by many notable achievements. The sanctuary has been completely redecorated, a nursery has been added complete with sound system and separate rest room facilities, and a two car garage con- structed at the parsonage. It is with a great deal of pride and thankfulness that it can be written that both parsonage and garage were freed from debt in May, 1962. Attendance at all services has shown a marked increase. The church at this time has a membership of 225 and Bible School enroll- ment is 160. In addition to Richard Sprague and Leslie Park- er, Jr., other who have entered full time Christian service are C. N. Johnson, together with his wife, Mary Grimes Johnson, and they are serving the church at Wanatah, Indiana; Allen Meredith, Duane Gross, Mrs. Albert Nelson (Lela Martin) and Mrs. Lucille Harrold, wife of Fred Harrold, the former Lucille Dill of Farmer City. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Elder James D. Turpin moved his family into the Farmer City area in 1921. They lived on the Tom Wisegarver farm. In 1922, the Turpin family moved into Farmer City. Elder Turpin taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ to his family in the home. In the late 1930's the Redman Hall (now Amer- ican Legion Hall) was rented and services were held there. The I. OOF. Hall was rented in the early 1940's. Services were presided over and conducted by full time missionaries. The church purchased the Van Deventer home on West Market Street for a meeting place in 1942. It was dedicated May 14, 1943, as a chapel by Apostle George Albert Smith. While meeting in this Chapel in 1946, the Farmer City Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was organized as an independent branch with Elder Heber Dale Turpin as the branch president. Due to the shortage of housing after World War II, the church sold all houses that were used as chapels. A new home was found for the branch in the Parnell school. It was sold after a few months of occupancy. In 1949, the branch moved to the Knights of Pythias Hall where the services were held until October 30, 1960. President Heber Dale Turpin was killed in a plane crash April 15, 1951. Elder Charles H. Beery was called to be branch president May 6, 1951. Elder Allen H. Flint was called to be branch president November in. 1956. The Church of Jesus Christ of battel Day Saints purchased a building site in the Herrick Estate addition to the Cits oi Farmer City A ground breaking ceremony for the building of a new chapel was held AugUSl 29, L959. The fust meeting was held in the new chapel on Hast Allen Street Octo- ber .",(). I960. An open house was held June 18, 1961. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH HISTORY A Southern Baptist minister, the Rev. Wm. F. Hedges, moved his family to Farmer City and began leaching industrial arts at Moore High School. Mrs. Hedges commuted daily to Dewitt to teach in the elementary school there. They soon learned the nearest Southern Baptist Church was about 30 miles away. With great determination and persistence, they aroused the interest of the Rev. Ben Starwalt, Lerna, 111., who was the area missionary, of the great opportunity for Southern Baptist work in this pioneer territory. On June 28, 1957, a tent was set up on the Sten- sel lot east of the Public Library. The following day, he began a 2 week meeting with three assist- ants, Robert Thompson, 'Mary Jane Whorton and Ruby Gerhart. These helpers were college students devoting their summer vacations to home mission work. A daily vacation Bible school was conducted in the tent each morning, Monday through Friday. By the end of the two weeks meetings, many mis- placed Baptists had been brought together and ex- pressed a desire to have a church in Farmer City. Sunday services were held in the IOOF Hall, with mid-week prayer meetings in the homes. On Aug. 31, 1947, following a basket dinner at the fair grounds, the First Baptist Church was organized with 26 charter members. In October, 1947, a lot and property at the southwest corner of the intersection of Lincoln and Allen Sts. was purchased. The residence converted into a church, where the first services were held Dec. 14, 1947. Jan. 3, 1948, the Rev. Hedges was called as pas- tor. Feb. 22, 1949, ground breaking services for a new church and the work was begun immediately with Byron Miles in charge. Most of the work was done by members of the church. Dec. 18, 1949, the first services were held in the new building. On Jan. 15, 1950, dedication services were held for the new church. During the summer and fall of 1951, the old church was torn down for a parsonage site. Feb. 11 1952 the Rev. Kenneth Blankenship began a 15 minute Gospel broadcast over radio station WHOW, Clinton. 111. Monday through Friday which con- tinued for nine months. Feb. 18, 1952. excavation hec;nn for the parsonage basement. This building was completed December 12, 1952. In September, 1961, more property was pur- chaser!. Five pastors have served the church: the Rev. William F. Hedges. Kenneth Blankenship. Bernard Deakins, Paul G. Pinkham and Dale Clemens. The membership is currently 202. BETHEL CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH The Bethel Christian Church was organized at Elmwood School house in Blue Rid^e Township, Piatt County, in 1X77. The church building w.rs dedi- cated on Jan. 4, 1880. With a growing congrega- tion, a north wing was added to the church in 1910. Four years later, a full basement was added to ac- commodate the Sunday School, and in 1912 a par- sonage was built across the road from the church. In 1931, the name was changed to Bethel Congre- gational Christian Church The Bethel Sunday School, which was the de- 39 PROGRESSING WITH FARMER CIT lju 111 pS I *" 4 3 BV0*9n | P*5 ■ \q is a 1 jIL. ■l _--* -? ^' i £y U-»] J 1 OUR FIRST STORE -SPRING 1912 INTERIOR - OUR FIRST STORE y INTERIOR - MAIN ST. STORE YOUR IGA FO( These Are The *MEAT DEPARTMENT* *p People WILLIAM "BILL" SPHAR - RAY CARLTON - Who Serve YOU . . • DAN dolbert - joan Gardner tyo** FARMER CH JESSE S. HAMMER, Sr. MARGARET T. HAMMER FOUNDERS 1912 >^^ ^M^ » # #> # » » « *«*^ ^^ ^^N^^^i O ^* ^ * 1 * * 40 •OUR 50th ANNIVERSARY... ENTERED HAPPY HOUR STORE - 1932 SEPTEMBER 1933 LINER TODAY REMODELED STORE - 1955 ODUCE* * GROCERY* MES VANCE URD SPHAR CHARLES HOLLODAY MIKE SHAW JOE JOHNSTON • CHECKERS* ANN BOSSERMAN-MYRTLE RATLIFF VIRGINIA WARREN JOSEPHINE STALKER Y FOODLINER JESSE S. HAMMER MERYIN GARDNER PARTNERS 1962 41 CONGRATULATIONS FARMER CITY • MILK • ^tLbw^ncSr * ICE • BUTTER • VT ; wm =3| CREAM • » MEADOW GOLD MILK CO. MEADOW GOLD ICE CREAM CO. 701 Kenyon Rd. 115 E. University Ave. CHAMPAIGN, ILL. CHAMPAIGN, ILL. , ^^1^1^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^■^.^■^■^■^^■^■.^■^■.^■^■■^■^■■^■^■^■^■.^■^■^■^^ .^.^■^.^■^■^^^^^■^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^.^ ^ ^ ^ « i t Congratulations, Farmer City ... on your 125th Anniversary! I Serricr around the clock _____________________ 42 Penny Flame joins the parade ••• Congratulations, termining factor in the organization of the church, has increased its ministry throughout the years Florence Galaway, in 1928, saw the need of con- centrate i I studj at which time she organized the Re;!-:-! I aily Vacation Bible School with Gli i Mosgrove writing the lesson material since no printed material was available. For the past 25 years, a capable staff of more than 20 have ion ducted Bible School yearly with a record attend- ance of 125. A newly organized Sunday School class called the Jolly Neighbors saw the need of providing a social outlet for its members. Mrs. Kathryn Nik- laus was the first chairman of this organization in 1939. Bethel Church, since its beginning, has had an active musical program including a choir. Mrs. Glenna Mosgrove has been choir director for the past 34 years. In 1938, the Rev. Levi Carter organ- ized the Community Sing-Joy, a monthly Sunday evening song service with Mansfield, Farmer City, Weedman Methodist Churches and Prairie Chapel (Evangelical United Brethren). The Rev. Fredrick Held organized Bethel Boy Scout Troop No. 154 in 1941. March 19, 1962, Rich- ard Cox ended 17 years as scoutmaster of this troop. Recreational facilities, combination basketball, tennis and volleyball court and a croquet court, were added to the church in 1947. For approxi- mately 15 years, Bethel had a team in the inter- church basketball league. At present, organized tennis instruction has been given to the young people. For the preparation of the church rededication program, the church was redecorated, installing stained glass windows, new chancel furniture and new pews. For the occasion, Mrs. Glenn James Mosgrove wrote the history of the church in the book entitled, "The Bethel Congregational Christ- ian Church — Its History and Its People 1877- 1948." Recently a public address system with ear phones was installed in the church with extension speakers in the nursery. The pastors of the past 25 years have been Rob- ert Kern, Rufus E. Emmert, Frederick Held, Dr. Albert E. Cook, Levi Carter, Kenneth Kramer, John Crutcher, Robert Shoemaker and the present pas- tor, Paul Kangas. The Women's Fellowship, Young People's, Sun- day School and the church has increased its mis- sionary program with missionary interest and sup- port in Africa, South America, Japan, Korea, as well as several home mission projects. Since 1937, the missionary budget has increased 2,400 per cent. A new electronic organ was placed in the church in 1959, and last year a new piano was installed. Bethel Church has been active in the Holy Week and Thanksgiving Services since the beginning. The Lord has blessed the dedicated Bible wit- ness in the Bethel community for almost 90 years. CHURCH OF GOD The denomination known as the "Church of God" is the latest one of the six religious sects in Farmer City. Consisting of a group of 10 members, it was organized February, 1954, by the Rev. Daniel Grego- ry, with Carl Bray Jr., J. T. Riggs and Daniel Gregory, trustees. Meetings were held in the home of Abraham Wilson for a short while, while plans were created for a church Duilding. Lots on North Plum Street were purchased from Lyle C. Morgan and a large tent was set up in which services were held while the present church building was being erected on adjoining premises during the summer of 1954, at a cost of $8,000. Much of the labor was donated. In the fall of the same year, the sanctuary was completed and regular weekly lervlcei have tbscrved Sunday morning, Sunday night and Tn day night Blnce thai time The formal dedica< of the church did io1 take place until 19.")!', v. .u. indebtedness was cancelled am; the burning the notes was evidenced by the congregation. Th< membership now numbers 20. The record attend ancc a; .Mindiy School 77. The Young Peoples' I tleavor whi meets on Thursday nights reports I record al tendance of 72. Farmer City was chosen as the most desirable place lo build Hie Church of Cod as those who were interested lived in Clinton, Mansfield and Bellflower and a central location most appropriate. In April, 1961, living quarters for the pastor were added to the church structure. The Rev. Larry Petty, serving I he congregation as pastor, is a stu- dent al the University of Illinois. Headquarters of the Church of God is located in Cleveland, Tenn. HISTORY OF WEEDMAN METHODIST CHURCH The people of the Weedman neighborhood in 1879 felt that there should be a church in the com- munity, the nearest churches being in Bellflower, Farmer City and Lindsay Chapel. At first the plan was for a "Union" Church to be built, but the plan was changed when one man offered to double his pledge for a church if it would be a Methodist Episcopal Church. Construction was begun in the latter part of July and completed in October, 1879. On October 26, the church was dedicated and a Methodist Society was formed consisting of 14 or 15 members who moved their memberships from other charges to Weedman. The cost of the original church was $1,152. Today in 1962, there are 168 members and the church is valued at over $15,000. In 1926, the congregation at Lindsay Chapel became so small that it was decided to unite with the Weedman Church. Pastors who have served Weedman Church through the years have been the Revs. James, Jo- seph Long, M. A. Hewes, Hooper, Thornton Clark, M. E. Pomfret, Peter Wallace, F. C Reid, H. S. Tyron, J. F. Humphrey, H. B. Montgomery, B. F. Thrasher. R. B. Hubbart, S. M. Vancleve, A. E. Adams, B E. Williams, A. J. Ives, W. M. Gooding, R. S. Eggleston, W. F. Powell, H. L. Thrall, Lewis Campbell, A. A. Heinline, V. P. Mitchell, Philip C. Dermond, S. M. Ingmire, L. B. VanWinkle, A. M. Willey, W. F. Russell, F. W. Samuelson, Thomas Hendricks, Paul Flower (lay supply), Carlos Duna- gan, Arthur Rostron, Benjamin Anderson, Edgar Lillpop, Robert Hennessee, Howard Redding and Ronald Bogart (the present pastor). DATES TO REMEMBER In the annals of Farmer City, two of the very important dates worthy of note are 1837 and 1937, the founding of the city and the 100th birthday celebration. The centennial, was in every sense, a brilliant success. The beautiful floats were symbolic and evidenced countless hours to assemble. The spectacular pageant was a delight to all. Eleven epochs dramatized by 400 local citizens, portrayed the events and customs of pioneer days. Farmer C'ily*s Ccnlcnnial was. without question, the biggest and best amateur performance ever slaved to that date. It can only be equaled or surpassed by I he 1251 h celebration now in production because of I he advancement made in Farmer City during the pasl 25 years. With up-lo-dalc properties, approp- riate clothing, additional features and capable di- rectors, 1962 is most likely 10 become a memorable date. 43 IEROY STATE BANK LEROY, ILL. Member F.D.I.C. ...COMPLETE... * FARM MANAGEMENT SERVICE * THROUGH OUR TRUST DEPARTMENT i i CONGRATULATES ... FARMER CITY'S Penneys SESS5 «» Anniversary CELEBRATION COUNT ON PENNEY'S . . . 60 YEARS OF GROWING WITH AMERICA ... of following our customers from rugged mining towns to every state from Maine to California. Wherever America grew there grew Penney's ... in small residental towns, in Downtown Shopping Areas, in sparkling suburban centers, until today, no matter where you live, what route you travel . . . the farther you get from one Penney store, the nearer you get to another . . . your landmark for big values, personal service. 4 WAYS TO BUY AT PENNEY'S — • 1—30 DAY CHARGE PLAN * 2— TIME PAYMENT PLAN * 3— LAY-A-WAY and • 4— CASH 44 ORGANIZATIONS - Fun, Philanthropy and Fellowship THE GARDEN CLUB — A MATTER OF BEAUTI FIC ATION The Farmer City Garden Club was organized on May tf. 1929, when 12 women interested in home and city bcaul if icat ion met at (he home of Mrs. Rex Jackson. Mrs. Jackson was elected president anil Mrs. Ray Dcnison, secretary. Projects during th.^ years have included plant- ings at the Franklin School, the Public Library, the Wcedman and City parks, Highway 150 en- trance and petunias at rural mail boxes. In 195G, the club received o $25 award from the Garden Club of Illinois for the development of the road- side picnic area on Highway 150 near the fair- grounds entrance. „ The club also has a junior project in which ele- mentary school children are given seeds, bulbs or plants to grow at home. A Junior Flower Show in September culminates the project. The past two years the club has sponsored an Arbor Day pro- ject in which hundreds of pin oak and sweet gum seedlings were bought and planted by school children. The local club which now has 35 members, is affiliated with the Garden Club of Illinois. Inc., and the National Council of State Garden Clubs. The president is Mrs. Don Thurber and the secre- tary is Miss Adclcne Holmes. INTERNATIONAL ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS The history of Odd Fellowship goes away back, in fact the name of Mt. Pleasant was given to the lodge when it was instituted in 1858. The first of- ficers are not known, but Joseph T. North was perhaps the outstanding worker, having held of- fices in the home lodge and the Grand Lodge for many years. The Odd Fellows relinquished their charter in 1958 and joined forces with the LeRoy Lodge. Iantha Rebekah Lodge No. 413 was instituted in 1895 with 35 charter members. Dora I. North prob- ably was the first Noble Grand and served ably in the Grand Lodge as president and other high offices. Mrs. Belle W'alden was a member of the state executive board and Mrs. Kate Horr was appointed state chaplain in 1910. The Rebekahs have met in the Odd Fellow's Hall until the Odd Fellow's disbanded a few years ago. Now the Re- bekahs meet regularly in the K.P. Hall. Marie Forbes is serving as noble grand and Ethel Swiney as secretary. MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA The Modern Woodmen Of America was one of the most active lodges in Farmer City at one time, combining life insurance with lodge membership and good fellowship. They received their charter in 1886. Seth Burford was the first clerk and when he retired, Sam Mitchell served as clerk for 44 years. This lodge disbanded a number of years ago. ROYAL NEIGHBORS OF AMERICA Forest Camp No. 461, Royal Neighbors of Amer- ica (a fraternal life insurance society), was in- stituted in Farmer City, April 18, 1896, with 52 charter members. Mrs. F. E. Houser, who resides at Millikin Home, Decatur, 111., is believed to be the only one left of that group. Camp No. 361 with 35 members consolidated with Camp No. 172, Clinton. 111., in 1961. The last officers were Mrs. Flora Jones, oracle; Delia Doggett, recorder, and Myrtle Mitchell, receiver. SANTA ANNA HOME BUREAU On Nov. 12, 1935, with more than 300 women present. DeWitt County Home Bureau was organ- ized. Miss Mable Bushnell was the first homo ad- viser employed by the organization. In January, 1936, a unit was formed in Farmer Cily, wiih Mrs. Dean Lowman as their chairman. There arc 40 members at the present time with Mrs. Charles Fogal now serving as their chairman. Mis Vcrncllc W'alden. Mrs. Fred Swigart, Mis Herman Jack and Mrs. C E. Simpson have been county presidents from this area. Town and Area is the name of a newly organ- ized unit of 21 young homemakers. Mrs Joe Mur- phey was their first chairman and Mrs. Wilmer Amachcr is the current chairman. CIVIC LITERARY and CULTURAL CLUBS OF FARMER CITY The "Philom alhia" Club was probably the oldest Literary Club, but no records arc available. The History Club was organized in 1897, was federated with the 19th District in 1902 with a membership of 108. In 1915. the club was organ- ized into departments with different meeting limes. The Literary, Civic, American Home, and for seve- ral years music and arl and Bible study depart- ments were featured. In 1931, when the club fede- rated with General Federation, the name was changed from "History Club" to "Farmer Cily Woman's Club." It was with deep regret that tho ladies decided to disband in 1950. The American Home Club which now meets regularly is a carry-over from that department of the Farmer City Woman's Club. June Simpson is their chairman and Myrtle Jack is secretary. Tho Shakespeare Club, a closed membership literary club, was founded in 1892 and still meels regularly with an active membership of 25. Francos Dunn and Minnie Murphy have served as the presi- dent and secretary this year. There are numerous sowing clubs, bridge, canas- ta and bunco clubs that add greatly to the social life of the community. JAYCEES ADD A NEW LOOK The Farmer Cily Jayceos wore chartered in February, 1961. The organization represents a two- fold purpose; community dcvclopmcnl and leader- ship training. A flower-box campaign was promoted by the club in the spring of 1961. Practically every busi- ness house in Farmci City responded to the idea by placing attractive and varied containers filled with growing flowers in front of the stores. II was a pleasing addition and received enough favorable comment to warrant repetition by the Jaycces this season. As a 1961 pre-Holiday project, the Jaycces re- activated a town custom that had been discontinued for several years, "Christmas Lighting Contest", which encouraged many homeowners to create sea- sonal displays. Twenty-six entries were received which made it difficult for the judges to select the six winners. An innovation, and a most worthy one. a stand- ard of Jaycee Clubs, was the "Children's Christmas Shopping Tour." A "white elephant auction sale" was held November 25 to raise funds for the less- fortunate children, providing them with money to purchase gifts for others. $155 was collected from the sale and 29 children were escorted on tho shop- ping tour by Jaycee members. Tho club has an enrollment of 33 members who deserve praise for their keen interest in community develonmont. Of- ficers serving since February. 1961 are Don Taylor, presirlent, and Jim Tobin. secretary. DeWITT COUNTY FARM BUREAU The DeWitl County Farm Bureau was organized Fob 12. 191K. in Clinton. III. The first president was Smith Wisegarver, followed in order by Claude 45 GENERAL TELEPHONE COMPANY of ILLINOIS IS PROUD TO BE A PART FARMER CITY IN ITS 125th Year AMERICA'S LARGEST INDEPENDENT TELEPHONE SYSTEM - — —"— ~ — ——■"• — — — — — — —- — — — —r-«— ■ — a - a - < - < -<-j-.<-j-j-j-j-j CONGRATULATIONS CORNER WALNUT AND MAIN THI FIRST NATIONAL BANK IN CHAMPAIGN 46 r- — — — ■ — "- ~~~- ■ - — 1 — ^ ^ .. 7 R. N. TAYLOR K. L. LASWELL THE TAYLOR ABSTRACT COMPANY i. — >. — ~ — .^ . — . . — > . . .„ ^^^ CLINTON, ILL. DeWITT COUNTY CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEIGHBORS IN FARMER CITY ON YOUR 125th BIRTHDAY . . . TREYETT - MATTIS BANKING CO. Our 101st Year Established 1861 Champaign, III. Member F.D.I.C. capable HATCH LIVE STOCK COMM. CO. dependable Room 720 Exchange Bldg. U.S. Yards, Chicago 9, 111. TELEPHONE: Yards 7-2776 Fatty Equipped In All Departments . . . Send Us Your Consignments Of . . . * CATTLE ~ * HOGS - * SHEEP . . . for ths b»*t possible ssrvlcs and most monoy to you . . . FRID H. HATCH • EL 5-03*7 — Napsrvllls, III. ELDON H. HATCH - EL 5-0512 — Napsrvllls. III. I for GAS stop at DAVIS BROS. F.H. - J.H. - JR. BONDED SERVICE BEST FOR A LITTLE LESS Mansfield, III. Phone 489-4051 MURRAY'S HOBBYLAND The TOY - HOBBY Showcase of Central Illinois LIONEL and AMERICAN FLYER TRAINS and SERVICE - MODEL BOATS AIRPLANES and DO-IT-YOURSELF KITS 112 W. MAIN - BLOOMINGTON, ILL. - Ph. 823-6530 The 93 year old said to the 125 year old ... We think of ourselves as being an old institution but we're really second generation when compared to Farmer City. When the Peoples Bank was founded in 1869, this venerable community was already 32 years old. WE SALUTE FARMER CITY ON ITS 125th ANNIVERSARY You've grown and progressed in these 125 years just as we have in the more than 93 years since our founding. (The Peoples Bank is the oldest and largest bank in McLean and surrounding counties.) Right now we are in the midst of an extensive expansion and remodeling program that will make our physical facilities among the finest in the area. Farmer Cityans are invited to stop in anytime, visit with our officers and see the progress we're making. You're always welcome. YOUR TIME and TEMPERATURE BANK at WASHINGTON and CENTER STREETS in downtown Bloomington BLOOMINGTON COMPLIMENTS OF II in TRINKLE'S downtown Mahomet BIG ENOUGH TO KNOW YOU SMALL ENOUGH TO SERVE YOU Open every day exoept Xmas 8 a.m. -9 p.m. CAMPBELL-ODELL, Inc. PRO-DEK PAINT Exterior "Snowy White" Farm and Dairy Paints — Non-Poisonous Home Office - Mahomet, III. Phone 586-4986 Come Visit Our Factory 48 Thorp, B B Goodin, M I Gokcn, Thomas Taylor. Frank Simpson. Ray Miller, Clyde Warren and I he present president, Paul l\ es, This organization was Formed in general to pro- mote agriculture and in particular to help farmers to a higher standard of living. High pomi s in accomplishments include expand- ed research in production of crops, collection and dissemination of information on a broad area of subjects, a thorough study of federal and state legislation afrccting agriculture and consistent suc- cess in the enactmcnl or defeat of same, and to encourage, promote and foster cooperative market- ing and selling organizations by farmers. Membership as of this year, 1962, stands at 1.111 members. The present officers are Paul Ives, presi- dent; Lester Oakley, vice-president; Ray Otto, sec- retary, and Russell Anderson, treasurer. FRATERNAL GROUPS HAVE PROVIDED ENTERTAINMENT, GOOD COMRADESHIP The first lodge. Masonic Orders No. 221, was chartered in Ml. Pleasant in 1856 and became de- funct in lcSTO. The present Farmer City Lodge, No. 710 A.F. & A.M. was chartered in 1876. The lodge home burned in the fire of 1879. The present build- ing was erected immediately following the fire. The new front was installed in 1923 and extensive re- modeling, carpeting and redecorating was done in 1960. W. C. McMurray was the first worshipful master. Robert E. N. Hieronymus is the present worshipful master and Ralph Morcland is the secretary. The Royal Arch Masons were chartered in 1873. They have been very active. Entertaining their "ladies" at dinner and with an interesting program has become an annual custom with them. Jack Hughes is serving as high priest and Floyd Burton as secretary. Louie Chapter No. 155. Order of the Eastern Star, was chartered in 1890. Martha Mclntyre was the first worthy matron and Sam Garver was worthy patron. This organization has met regular- ly in the Masonic Hall and the present worthy matron and worthy patron are Mr. and Mrs. Rich- ard K. Drake. Virginia Herrick is secretary. Kenilworth Lodge, No. 60, Knights of Pythias, was issued a charter in May, 1875. Chris Garver was perhaps the first chancellor commander. The original charter was burned in the great fire of 1879. First lodge meetings were held with the Masons, later in the Odd Fellows Hall, where the Grand Army post was located. The present Castle Hall was built in 1893. Charles W. Bates served 49 years as Keeper of Records and Seal. Fred Reynolds is the present chancellor commander and Rex Jackson is the Keeper of Records and Seal. Their annual "Family Nights" with "Feeds", have been very enjoyable. The Pythian Sisters received their charter in 1894. They have been a very active organization during the years. Regular meetings have been held in the K.P. Hall. Frances Peters and Chloe McKin- ley are the most excellent chief and the secretary this year. WCTU — CONSCIENCE FOR TEMPERANCE Earliest record of the Women's Christian Tem- perance Union places its formation in Farmer City in October, 1938. The group was organized in the home of Mrs. George Mclntyre. Active in the or- ganization was Mrs. Cora Fields, Clinton, county president at that time. Mrs. Fields was quite active in the WCTU, but suffered from failing sight which necessitated a trip to Clinton by the Rev. Fred Harrold to bring her to the meeting. Mrs. W. B. O'Neal, Champaign, a field worker, joined with Mrs. Fields in the first meeting. Named president of I be unit thru was Mi Pearl Smith with Mrs. Miriam Fificld, secretary, and Mrs Mary Lowman, Ircasurcr Current offi- cers are Mrs. Roy Wright, Sr., president; Mis Ralph Kuykcndall, secretary, and Mis Alvin Brown- Ice, treasurer. Through the years many oi (ho members have linen county officers. Currently serving in count' capacities are Mis Paul Massock, Mrs. Karl Shaf. roi\ Mis Maine Crimes. Mrs Lucille Harrold and Mrs. Wright. There are about 50 members in the unit now. THE KIWANIS CLUB — COMMUNITY SERVICE The Kiwanis Club of Farmer City received its charter Oct. 6, 1936. There were 25 charter mem- bers. The first directors were M. T. Collier, J. R. Batcman, Carl Monen, the Rev. F. J. Schaal l he Rev. L. P. Bear, W. P. Massock and Carl Heir. The first president and secretary were Dr. (). W. E. Xoulm and Harlow Stcnscl, respectively. The present president and secretary are Ally. Robert Gammage and Willard Thomas. Loll Howe served as Lt. Governor of ihc Illinois-Iowa District in 1951. Mrs. Georgia Hull has served as pianist through tin- years. In 1937, the Kiwanians sponsored the Union Sunrise Easier Service which has become an an- nual custom thereby aiding the churches in their spiritual aims. The club sponsors the Boy Seoul s. They spon- sored the "Saturday Night Drawings" which have been continued by the Booster's Club and then the Chamber of Commerce to the present time. Kiwanis was responsible for the erection of signals at dang- erous intersections. Each October, the Kiwanians and their ladies welcome and become acquainted with the teachers of our schools. The Farmer City Club and the LeRoy Club ob- serve Joint Charter Night each year, as the two clubs were organized in 1937. At this dinner, the ladies of Kiwanis arc also guests. The Kiwanis Club ha? been a force for good of the community and now has a membership of 40. Their motto is "We Build." WOODLAWN COUNTRY CLUB The Woodlawn Country Club really got its start in a meeting held in what is now Dr. C. M. Duff's dental office. There had been a good deal of talk, but at I his meeting, which was on March 17, 1922, H. L. Williams, frequently called upon to act as pallbearer, said he would be glad to have some place to take his friends besides the cemetery and why not start a country club. The organization was start- ed and the temporary officers were C. E. Huddlc- ston. chairman; H. L. Williams, vice chairman; E. R. Rinehart, secretary, and George M. Kincaid, treas- urer. They afterwards became permanent officers. The plan was $5 down; a note for $45 due Feb. 15, 1923, without interest; $50 due February 15, 1924, with interest at 7 per cent from February 15, 1923, and one for §50 due February 15, 1925 with interest at 7 per cent from February 15, 1923. The member- ship was limited to 140. Thirty-seven signed at the first meeting. An option was taken on the 31 acres owned by H. L. Bracken and was purchased at $12,500. The first committees were; To seed grounds — J. B. Fuller, S. M. Swart/. A. Trenkle, Wayne Herrick and Wallie Weedman. Commission on expert to lay out course — J. R. Eppstein, B. F. Carver. M B Kincaid. L A. Thomas- sen and J. B. Porterfield Commission on constitu- tion and by-laws — L C Herrick. A. M. Hender, G W. Watson. L W. Railsbaek and H L Swart/ The 25 acres north of the Bracken land was purchased from the Huddleston Estate for $3,750. 49 SKELGAS - The Efficient Economical Fuel replacing WOOD ■ COAL and KEROSENE Here's why you should always insist on genuine SKELGAS. All LP Gas is not the same and the wrong kind of gas can run your gas bills way up. Propane is the best kind of gas for our part of the country and the purer the pro- pane the better the gas. If you buy gas with Water, Ethane and bupane at the same rate as propane it costs you more. But SKELGAS removes these impurities leaving a pure propane gas. THE BEST LP GAS YOU CAN BUY LEWIS HARDWARE Phone 3232 your Skelgas dealer Farmer City. III. MONTGOMERY WARD 112 Main Urbana. III. HOURS 9-5:30 WEEKDAYS 9-9 SATURDAY KINDLY CALL 367-1187 USE WARDS MANY CONVENIENT CREDIT PLANS URBANA'S LARGEST and FRIENDLIEST DEPARTMENT STORE... URBANA'S DOWNTOWN SHOPPING CENTER 50 kVhilc the present course was being prepared, a niniature course of nine holes was laid out from he present Xo. 3 tee west with crossing the pond wie?. There was a cottage located near the pres- ent No. 2 tee where Scoot Wence operated a snack >ar and was a very popular place especially when t rained. A concrete block ice house was located on the )ank of the pond and this was torn down by the nembers and the material used to build the pres- ent dining hall at a cost of $4,500. The only living original shareholders are Rex fackson, Ray Lohmeyor. J. B. Moore, LaVen New- on French. O. B. Pace, Mabel Rawlings, Walter teeser. J. B. Rinehart, E. R. Rinehart, Frank Rob- Tts, H. R. Savage, Welbv Shere, H. M. Stensel, {. C. Swartz, H. L. Swartz, L. A. Thomassen, Gro- er \V. Watson, F. L. Weedman, Frank Williams, Iarrv Williams, Dr. H. T. Clarno, M. T. Collier, Joyd Elmore. J. R. Eppstein. H. C. Gring, D. L. lallowell. Wirt Herrick and Wayne Herrick, but >nly O. B. Pace. E. R. Rinehart, H. M. Stensel, R. C. >wartz and H. R. Savage are active members now. Stanley Albert is now president. Dr. C. M. Duff s the secretary and Mrs. Claudia Stoughton, treas- irer. The other members of the board are O. A. 'eithman, Frank Mclntyre, Tom McConkey and Chandler Brown. AMERICAN LEGION Joe Williams Post 55, American Legion, has een an active veteran organization in Farmer !ity since 1919. In that year, the post was or- anized and Wirt Herrick elected its first com- lander. The charter was signed by the national ommander in January, 1921, and by the depart- lent (state) commander in January, 1922. The Post was named after Pvt. Joseph Williams, le first local casualty in World War I. Pvt. /illiams was wounded in action in France Oct. 4, 918, and died of his wounds Oct. 9, 1918. His ody was returned to this country and interred in lcCord Cemetery in June, 1921. Civic activities of the post include presenting [emorial Day ceremonies at the City Cemetery, Donsoring a local boy at Boys' State, presenting Dlors at civic functions, presenting flags to schools ad public buildings, giving Christmas treats to lo- ll children, donating to state and national child elfare projects, donating to worthy local civic rojects,, presenting school medal awards to an jtstanding boy and girl graduate of grade school, id on several occasions sponsoring a Junior egion baseball team. The local Post was instru- lental in starting the Little Leaguue baseball ovement in Farmer City. Prior to 1945. the Post held its meetings in a )om above the City Hall. In 1945, Redmen Hall as purchased by contributions from local busi- ?sses and the general public and given to the >st as a "home" of their own in which to wel- >me the boys returning from World War II. Other than Wirt Herrick, the following mem- ?rs have held the office of commander in the >st: Russell Huddleston, Roy Rock, W. D. Herrick, elson K. Tull. Lafayette Cox, Earl Patterson, If. Nye. H. T. Clarno, G. S. Severson. Lott H. r alton. Edwin Eppstein, M. T. Collier, Robert larp, W. P. Masso-k, E. S. Wightman, Harold M. :alker, Duane Crum. H. M. Stensel, Willard •enkle, Bert Carr, William G. Randall, Myrl ;eser. Edward Beggs, Leo T. Peck, Robert J. Wil- n William Pilkenton, Mervin Gardner, P. A. vilbiss. Robert Jackson, Robert Williams, George Golden, G. E. Johnston, James Cadle, Ray Tar- r. George T. Hollon, Charles L. Brown, Claude imler and O. W. Reinke. AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY Joe Williams Unit 55, American Legion Auxilia- ry, was first organized and received its Charter Aug. 22, 1925, with the first president elected, as near as memory can recall, being Mrs. Ruth Carr. The unit disbanded and was later re-organized on Jan. 13, 1911, with 22 charter members, some of whom are now deceased. The first president of the Unit in 1911 was Mrs. Maude Scott. The unit now has a membership of 99. The pres- ent president of the unit is Mrs. Sadie Reinke. Her officers are Mrs. Maxine Williams, first vice-presi- dent; Mrs. Mamie Stimler, second vice-president; Mrs. Vera Mabis, historian; Mrs. Cora Stimler, chaplain; Mrs. Marie Bowman, secretary; Mrs. Daisy Kent, treasurer, and Mrs. Helen Yarman, sergeant-at-arms. The auxiliary is active in rehabilitation, Amer- icanism, community service, child welfare and poppy sales to mention a few. The local Unit 55 also maintains the Clothes Closette up over the City Hall where the needy of the community may come for clothing and also loans wheel chairs, beds, walker and bedside table to those who need them. PARENTS AND TEACHERS — THE PTA The Parent Teacher Assn. was organized in Farmer City by Mrs. Lyle Herrick during the sec- ond decade of the 20th century. She served as president and was succeeded by Mrs. Harry Wil- liams. This proved a false start, however, because the association was disbanded due to lack of en- thusiasm on the part of the school administration. The first meeting of the present Farmer City PTA was held March 29, 1935, at the Moore Town- ship High School. Mrs. R. R. McCarty was elected the first president. Since that time, the association, which is now officially known as the Farmer City Community Unit Parent Teacher Assn., has been in integral part of the relationship between parents, teachers and community. It has as its objects the same fine ideals sub- scribed to by PTA's across the nation: to promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, church and community; to raise the standards of home life; to secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth; to bring into closer relation the home and the school, that par- ents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the training of the child; and to develop between educators and the general public such united ef- forts as will secure for every child the highest ad- vantages in physical, mental, social and spiritual education. Over the years, the PTA has served the Farmer City schools and community in many ways. Out- standing guest speakers, local talent and active group discussion on pertinent subjects have been featured at the monthly meetings held September through May, excepting December. During the '30s, it was the practice of the PTA to purchase things for the schools they might not otherwise have. The grand piano, which is in the high school auditorium, was purchased by the PTA with funds earned at a food stand the members operated at the Farmer City Fair one summer. More recently, it has become the practice of the local PTA to award two or three $100 scholarships each year to good students who are planning to prepare themselves as teachers during their college careers The latest financial project of the Farmer City PTA is a sizeable contribution to the fund for a foreign exchange student coming to the com- munity. Since its inception, the Farmer City PTA. with a membership as high as 500, has had many citizens 51 HARRIS TV SALES & SERVICE DUMONT and SYLVANIA TV - HI-FI — ANTENNA INSTALLATIONS — Radio Dispatched Service Truck FARMER CITY, ILL. Ph. 3865 Rt. 150-across from Fairgrounds FARMER CITY TRUCK STOP Highways 54 and 150 FARMER CITY, ILL. WE NEVER CLOSE PHONE 8112 compliments OF BURTONS STANDARD SERVICE U.S. 54 FARMER CITY, ILL. phone 6525 24-hr. Wrecker Service "WE GIVE S&H GREEN STAMPS" TUNE-UP and REPAIR ON ALL MAKE CARS Clifford Burton, MANAGER THE BLOSSOM SHOP and GREENHOUSES FLOWERS and GIFTS for all occasions Our Specialties are Corsages - Wedding and Funeral Arrangements DORIS M. BARROW, owner FARMER CITY, ILL. PHONE: 7222 FOOSLAND GRAIN CO. Inc. PAUL W. VERKLER, mgr. DEALER IN — GRAIN - FEED - SEEDS COAL and SUPPLIES - FEED GRINDING and MIXING - GRAIN CLEANING . . . BULK FEED DELIVERY . . . FEED MILLS — FOOSLAND - BELLFLOWER ELEVATORS — FOOSLAND - McNULTA ROSE MONT FARM REG. MILKING SHORTHORN We Have Been Breeding and Improving The Breed For The Past 25 Years . . . PHONE: Farmer City 4065 or 4067 R. V. ZEIDERS and DON E. KING MANSFIELD, ILL. 52 BRISTOW'S IGA GROCERIES - MEAT and VEGETABLES PHONE 17 Roy and Francis Bristow Bellflower, 111. -i L LeRoy Auction Service LEROY, ILL. Phone 962-4661 Col. Merle Miller and Col. Don Zook * CITY PROPERTY * FARMS ♦FARM LOANS * FREE RENTAL SERVICE We have not been in business for 125 years, but we have had the pleasure of serving the people of this community for 10 years, and we hope to continue to do so for many more years . . . 0. B. PACE, REAL ESTATE 316 SOUTH MAIN ST. PH. 8475 Farmer City, III. _> — ~~~~~~~-~~~~~~~~~~~ *~ * * * ^^^^^^^ .>■> ~-~~ *********** ,> Folkes' Jewelry Expert Watch and Jewelry repair • DIAMONDS • WATCHES • JEWELRY FOR EVERY OCCASION LeRoy, III. GENDER GAS C0. r Inc. Gibson City and Fairbury PHONE - ST 4-8231 PHONE - 322 LP GAS "THE MODERN FUEL" "~i f~ -if compliments OF GEORGE E. CASTR0VILL0, M.D. FARMER CITY, ILL. 53 BUILDING SERVICE CO. Bellflower, 111. BUILDING MATERIAL GRAIN and COAL Carl Lawrence PONTIAC STONE (0. Mahomet, 111. SAND - CRUSHED STONE phone 586-4732 LOANS up to $ SM STATE SUPERVISED CORN BELT FINANCE CO. 103 N. Main St. Blooming ton, III. phone 825-2066 C. A. CHRISTMAN — W. W. LONGWORTH 1962 1962 1962 A Great Anniversary Year FARMER CITY 125 years JOHN DEERE 125 years HAWN & OVERTON 10 years 260 years AFTER 260 YEARS, WE'RE STILL MOVING FORWARD . . . HAWN & OVERTON "JOHN DEERE DEALER" "7 i i i ROARK'S CAFE Good Home Cooking by BABE and REX LeRoy. III. congratulations HOME TOWNERS SHELL - DOWNS MOTORS Phone 349 Clinton, 111. 54 Rive of I heir time and energy to lead the associa- tion as president: Mrs. R. R McCarty, Mrs \V. P. M tSSOCk, Mrs. Bert Vance. Mrs. Lyle Morgan, Mrs. Cappy Swart/. Mrs Harold Wheeler. Mrs. Arthur Bales. Lowell Smith. Rex Minnie, Roger Reoder, Clarence Simpson, Mrs Wilfred Nowlin and Lloyd Rodman In 1935. it became the practice to elect a couple lo serve as co-presidents. They have been Mr and Mrs. Maurice Howe. Mr. and Mrs. Joe Eubank. Mr. and Mrs Richard Cox, Mr. and Mrs. Chandler Broun and Mr and Mrs. Robert Gam- mage, who are presently serving. GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC and WOMEN'S RELIEF CORPS Lemon Post Grand Army of the Republic, was Organized soon after the close of the Civil War by the "Boys in Blue" whose lives were spared in the greal conflict, though some came home maimed for life. Others paid with their lives and were buried on bat lie grounds. Until only a few members of Lemon Post survived, they continued faithfully in patriotic effort. In order to further promote the principles for which they stood, a group of 20 loyal women formed an auxiliary and were granted a charier from the National Woman's Relief Corps Jan. 12, 1885, as Lemon Corps No. 21. Throughout the years the organization has been active in sup- porting patriotism and supplying assistance to the needy. The current officers are Mrs. Odetta Cook, president; Mrs. Bertha Rollins, senior vice presi- dent; Mrs. Ruby Ratliff, secretary, and Mrs. Hat tie Covey, treasurer. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The present Chamber of Commerce is an out- growth of the former "Boosters Club." This club was organized about 1937 to help promote Farmer City as a business community. Some of the original boosters who helped start the club were John Ken- dall. Art Lowman, Phil Rous, M. T. Collier and Rex Jackson. One of the early ideas of this club was to sponsor a drawing each Saturday night. Money, or script, as it was called, was given if you were present when your name was called. This was redeemable in any store for merchandise. This drawing is still held every Saturday night. About four years ago, the club voted to join the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, and the name was changed to Farmer City Chamber of Commerce. At present, there are 75 members. PARKS IN FARMER CITY CITY PARK The first plot of ground designated for a park was donated to the Town of ML Pleasant in 1837 by Nathan and Polly Clearwater, early and perm- anent settlers. They erected the first house in Mount Pleasant. For many years, the park was enclosed by hitching racks, a convenience for farmers and town folk while they were "trading" on Main Street. A large watering trough stood in the center of the west boundary' line. With the passing years, city officials have provided needed care to the park's appearance. Concrete walks were built and benches supplied. A large stone, honoring Nathan and Polly Clearwater, is at the south entrance. On account of disease it has been necessary to remove 20 trees. A variety of replacements were planted. Weekly band concerts have been held in the park for many years. In 1961, the wooden band stand was considered unsafe and a 40x60 concrete plat- form was built for use as a band stand and skating rink. WEEDMAN PARK Weedman Park was donated to the City of Farmer City by the Weedman heirs in 1892. It has been the scene of many picnics, family reunions and various entertainment. For a number of years, it was utilized as a tourist camp. Under the super- vision of a citizens' committee, composed of June Gottlieb, Helen Oberlink and Kay Clarno, play- ground equipment was purchased by the city in 1956. It consisted of six 10-foot swings, one eight- foot slide, one merry-go-round, one primary castle walk, three nursery swings and two benches. BALL PARK On November 4, 1957, the City Council passed an ordinance to purchase land adjoining Weedman Park from Allison Yeagle to provide a ball diamond for the Little League Baseball Club. It has been used for that sport each season and is appreciated by the boys and the public. e^^^^n«a^£- ■ CITY PARK AS FARMER CITY SET UP McKINLEY CANNON IN 1913 55 DEWEY'S DRIVE IN Rt. 54 -- Farmer City, 111. * Root Beer -- * Custard * Sandwiches -- * Shakes compliments of CARMON'S JACK and KATHRYN MONEN Name Brand Appliances "QUALITY COSTS NO MORE" * We Service Everything We Sell * CURTIS ELECTRIC CO. We Give S and H Green Stamps ~J compliments of Mclnfyre & Sfagen STANDARD OIL PRODUCTS . . . DANCE! DANCE! DANCE! Friday and Saturday Night EL ROA INN Maroa, Illinois Come Early . . . Dine With Us - Chicken and Steak Dinners plus your favorite drinks ~*7 i i i i i i CONGRATULATIONS TO Farmer City, 111. J. NILE MITCHELL O.D. CLINTON, ELL. FARMER CITY, ILL. 56 CEMETERIES CITY CEMETERY Ground for the City Cemetery and Methodist Episcopal Church was donated by William McKin- ley April 7, 1856. The first M. E. Church in Farmer City was built here in 1863. For many years, the plot was woefully neglect- ed; the only care given was on some individual lots. Grass and weeds were permitted to grow high, broken tree limbs were scattered about and grave markers toppled. In the early 1900's two citizens, Mrs. Jefferson Wetzel and Mrs. F. P. Sangster as- sumed the responsibility of having the cemetery's appearance improved. They canvassed the towns- people for funds. The project was well received and resulted in a thorough clean-up process. From that time, the City gave more attention to caring for the grounds. Cemetery committees have been appointed each year and a custodian employed. No fee was ever made for burial lots in the original McKinley transfer. Alec Whitaker owned a strip of land adjoining the McKinley ground on the east which he platted in lots and sold. The two sections were known as the "Old Part" and the "New Part." The oldest date in the City Cemetery is 1799 which appears on the monument of Richard D. Webb as his birthdate. Decoration Day programs, sponsored by patriotic organizations, have long been held in the City Ceme- tery, assemblying around a large granite monu- ment in memory of "Unknown Soldiers and Sailors." MAPLE GROVE CEMETERY ASSOCIATION The Maple Grove Cemetery Association was deeded the land on which it now stands on Nov. 11, 1895, by George A. and Martha Wheeler. The land had been surveyed and the lots plotted the preceding month. The original directors were George A. Wheeler, Charles E. Wheeler, Frank L. Wheeler, Lewis Shreve and Martha Wheeler. The first person buried in the cemetery was a seven month old baby girl, Mary Marie White, who was buried there Aug. 17, 1895, even before the cemetery officially opened. After the first burial, many bodies were moved into the cemetery. From that time on, it has been actively used as a cemetery. At the time this article was written, there were 1,965 graves in the Maple Grove Cemetery. Many of Farmer City's more illustrious citizens are buried there. Tom Johnson, who had carried mail from the depot to the post office downtown for many years, died and was buried there in 1936. The ceme- tery is also the resting place of many of Farmer City's War Veterans. Maple Grove has many beautiful tombstones in it. They range from the starkly simple lines that are always popular, to many ornate and compli- cated ones. There is one made in the shape of a chair, several tree trunks, and others of all shapes, shades and color. They range in cost from nothing at all to $10,000 for a single stone. There have been many changes in management over the years. The work at the cemetery was first managed by George A. Wheeler. Frank L. Wheeler and George L. Wheeler took over the management after the death of their father. They continued to work at the cemetery until George L. Wheeler died and Frank lost his health. After that, Frank's sons, Otto, Harold and Carl, managed the work of the cemetery until after their father's death and the reorganization of the cemetery association in 1950. After the reorganization in 1950, Harold Wheel- er became manager, a position he held until March of 1960. At that time, he resigned to accept a full- time position at Moore Township High School. The management of the cemetery was then turned over to Alva R. Scarbrough, who holds this position today. Many improvements have been made over the years. Only recently new mowers have been added, more efficient tools of all kinds, a new sign to help those from out of town, and many other things. Many of these improvements have been paid for by the interest paid the cemetery on the perpetual care money taken on many of the lots. The ceme- tery association is now planning the widening of the drives and the plotting of new lots in the future. The present directors of the association are Alva R. Scarbrough, Pearl Wheeler Scarbrough, Ida Mne Thomas, Cora Stimler and Dean Scar- brough. GREENLEAF CEMETERY Ground for Greenleaf Cemetery was given by Thomas A. and Mary A. McLain on April 2, 1866. A United Brethren Church, one which later burned, was built on the five acre plot. First trustees of the cemetery were Samuel Johnson, Preston Jones and William P. Riggs, great-grandfather of Claude Walker, one of today's trustees, along with Robert Lewis and Harold Hillman. EARLY CITY LIGHT PLANT 57 COMPLIMENTS OF STEMBEL WOOL CO. WOOL - HIDE - FEED and FEED LOT EQUIPMENT We Carry A Complete Line Of CRITIC FEEDS GIBSON CITY, ILL. PH. STate 4-4821 POLLED HEREFORD CATTLE BUCKLEY, ILL. PH. 2093 r— HOLIDAY INN COCKTAIL LOUNGE and DINING ROOM 1505 N. Neil St. Champaign, 111. EUGENE W. YOUNG, Innkeeper DAVID H. SMITH, Food Service Supervisor PHONE: 359-1601 GILBERT MUSK (0. 108 SOUTH CENTER STREET BLOOMINGTON, ILL. phone 824-4090 Established 18% NOBLE BROTHERS WHOLESALE SEED MERCHANTS Phone STate 4-4218 Gibson City, 111. GRASS - CLOVER - TIMOTHY - MILLETS - BLUE GRASS - RED TOP - SOYBEANS - BROME GRASS SINORAK SMORGASBORD — Serving Dally — 1720 S. Main Blooming ton, 111. U.S. 51 & 66 — AT THE DRIVE IN EVERY DAY 27 SPARKLING SALADS 10 DELICIOUS HOT DISHES • . . Eat All You Like . . • Lunches - 95c Dinners - $ 1 .65 11:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. CHILDREN-under 3-free 3-10-half price ILLINOIS FINEST SMORGASBORD COCKTAIL LOUNGE ■-» L- 58 •-*•--? BLAIR FUNERAL HOME * Mansfield * Mahomet * Fisher --- AMBULANCE SERVICE --- SHANER IMPLEMENT CO., Inc. SALES and SERVICE ALU CHALMERS - OLIVE; ; - KI /ANEE and NEW IDEA GIBSON CITY, ILL. C. L. SHANER ROBERT C. HILL r^ ^^^ - M. P. Bishop Fertilizers TRUCKING - LIMESTONE PHOSPHATE - ANHYDROUS AMMONIA ALL KIKOS COMMERCIAL FERTILIZERS LIQUID FERTILIZER LEROY, ILL. PHONE 962-4491 Sprague's Superette i "Finest In Me its & Groceries BOB SPRAGUE, prop. PH. 39 WELDON, ILL. BOB DOLORES LINDA SCOTTY ~~~~~~~~~—~~~~~—~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~—~~~ - ~> -■—^---— —■ — —— —^- — — ——^•^— —————— ——^—•^—■^— ^—*— — 7 i GILBERT BROS. MARATHON SERVICE our specialty . . . phone 489 4711 MANSFIELD, ILL. WELDON OIL CO. Established 1923 FUEL OIL GAS LUBRICATING OILS FARM and HOME DELIVERIES Ph. 49 Weldon, III. GILBERT BROS. DUMP TRUCK SERVICE • PHOSPHATE * FERTILIZER • PONTIAC LIMESTONE phone 489-4751 MANSFIELD, ILL. I 59 7 r * 1 i— - r i^»- CONGRATULATIONS TO Farmer City on its 125th BIRTHDAY WELDON CO-OP. GRAIN CO. Feeds - Seeds - Twine Phone 15-Weldon, III. •4 t i WOODY'S BARBER SHOP 208 Main St. "We Need Your Head In Our Business" WOODS BEAUTY SHOP Ph. 6024 219 Main St. congratulations FARMER CITY . . . JOS. KUHN & (0, DOWNTOWN CHAMPAIGN •CLOTHING* • MEN • BOYS • LADIES This Year Marks Our 10th ANNIVERSARY They Have Been Good Years With The Help Of FARMER CITY People Who Recommend Us As Cordial Hosts . . . MAY WE ENJOY MANY MORE PROMISING YEARS TOGETHER . . Elmortel Motel FARMER CITY, ILL. the WRIGHTS owners RAY and PHYLLIS TARTER, mgr». ^'■^■^■^^''^■^■^''^^■^■^■^■^■^•^■^■^■^^ ^ ^ ^ j^^*^^ ^ ^ ^ ^^^^^^^■^^■^-^■■^'^^ *^ * * *^* *0*i^^^ i* & »^ m u* m » *» * * m mp h * ■ "^^ Congratulations to our neighbor city upon her 125th Birthday. May she have health, wealth, happiness and Many Happy Returns . . . EAST SIDE OF SQUARE IN THE HEART OF BLOOMINOTON'S MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR SHOPPING DISTRICT mERiGAN State Bonk MEMBER FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION MEMBER FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM 60 FARMER CITY BUSINESSES TODAY A & B HATCHERY George and Eugene Hoffman purchased the poul- try and feeds business January 1, 1947 from R. E. Augustus who had established the hatchery business here in December, 1929. The Hoffmans have one employee. ALEXANDER LUMBER COMPANY Being purchased near the turn of the century from the Robison Lumber Co., the Alexander Lum- ber Co. is one of the oldest local firms. They pro- vide a large selection of building materials. There are two employees. Chester Eden is the manager. DR. WILMER L. AMACHER Farmer City has one chiropractic office. It is owned and operated by Dr. Wilmer L. Amacher, D.C, chiropractic doctor, who came to this city in 1954. He also practices in Clinton. GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY Morrell D. Crago is manager of the local gro- cery store which was established here in 1920. Six persons are employed. BATEMAN OIL COMPANY Russell Bateman established the business as dis- tributor of fuel oil from bulk plant in 1927. He employs one truck driver to make deliveries. BEALOR MOBIL SERVICE STATION Dale Bealor leased the gas and oil service sta- tion from the Mobil Oil Co. in November, 1957, and has continued to operate it since that date. The building was erected and equipped for the opera- tion of a service station by Arthur Lowman in 1932. BIG *N' DISTRIBUTOR Mid-South Chemical Co. purchased the business February 1, 1958 from Illinois Anhydrous Ammonia Co. Chandler Brown is the local business manager and Big 'N' distributor. He has one seasonal em- ployee. THE BLOSSOM SHOP Mrs. Doris M. Barrows owns and operates the flower shop. Mr. and Mrs. Barrow purchased the business in 1959 from Lyle Morgan. Two persons are employed. BON AIRE INN W. T. Rick is the owner of the restaurant and tavern which he purchased in July, 1957 from Irish Moore. Moore had established the business in May, 1952. Rick has three employees. BROWNLEE WELDING SHOP Alvin G. Brownlee established a complete weld- ing service in 1945. The shop is located at 418 East Water Street and Mr. Brownlee does the work without the aid of employees. BURTON'S STANDARD SERVICE The Burton Standard Service is owned by Clif- ford Burton and is a gasoline and service station. Burton bought the present business in 1955, al- though a station had been located here since 1953. It has four employees. C & L CAFE Charles and Lucy Tharp purchased the restaur- ant business June 1, 1960 from Elmo Cadle. They have four reguluar employees. CANBY FARM SERVICE Richard S. Canby established a repair shop spec- ializing in farm machinery in 1945 and continued the service until his death April 21, 1962. THE CARD RACK Mrs. Lyle C. Morgan established the gift and card store on September 5, 1958. Mrs. Morgan conducts regular lessons in the art of craft and supplies the necessary materials. CHARLIE'S POOL HALL Charles Thompson purchased the tavern and pool hall in November, 1959 from Harry Lucas. He has one employee. The first owner was Sherman Merritt, approximately 45 years ago. CITIES SERVICE STATION Elbert Jones is day manager for the Cities Ser- vice Co., operating as a "Truck Stop", catering to large trucks and transports. The business was origi- nated in 1947 by Carl Wright who sold it to Cities Service Co. in 1956. Six men are employed. CLARK BROS. MONUMENT COMPANY Harlow M. Stensel is representative of Clark Bros. Monument Co. in the sale of monuments and vaults. The business was established in 1886 by Hugh M. and C. N. Clark. Charles D. Rock and son Roy Rock were rep- resentatives from about 1916 to April, 1956 when Roy Rock passed away. COLLIER APPLIANCE COMPANY R. A. Collier became the owner of the retail store of appliances, gifts, paint and wallpaper from his father Marshall A. Collier who continued the hardware business began originally in 1906 by his father, George A. Collier. The store has three em- ployees. CORN BOWL, INC. Original business started by L. R. Murphey in 1935 with a four lane bowling alley in the business district. In July, 1958 the business became Corn Bowl, Inc. with a new building at a new location with L. R. Murphey, manager. Employs nine persons to operate the bowling and lunch. COUNTRY STEAK HOUSE Mrs. Juanita Heath purchased the restaurant November 1, 1961 from Donald Kirk, who had owned the business for about three years. Four regular employees with the owner. CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE Mr. and Mrs. Elwood Bateman have owned and operated Soft Water Service since August 20, 1947. They purchased the business from Stanley Howe in March, 1946. They employ one assistant. 61 LOWMAN TOGGERY • MEN'S WEAR* 'DEPENDABLE SINCE 1935" FARMER CITY, ILL. FROM FARMER CITY'S RAIN BARREL IN 1837, THERE'S BEEN A CHANGE NOW, THERE'S CULLIGAN w //fwZ' SERVICE E. T. BATEMAN 319 W. MARKET ST. PHONE 3681 FARMER CITY, ILL. LeRoy LANES BRUNSWICK AUTOMATICS THE FINEST IN BOWLING COCKTAIL LOUNGE SNACK BAR HAROLD and MARGARET HARTNADY, prop. Phone 962-4821 LEROY, ILL LtKUT, ILL. COMPLETE FERTILIZER SERVICE LIVESTOCK HAULING MONTICELLO, ILL. LIMESTONE - PHOSPHATE MLF LIQUID FERTILIZER COMPLETE ANALYSIS DRY — PHONE: 7021 MERRIMAN TRUCK SERVICE , CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMER CITY Phipps Depf. Store FARMER CITY, ILL. quality merchandise at sensible prices ... 62 MOORE'S HARDWARE • PLUMBING • HEATING • WATER SYSTEMS and WELL WORK phone I06R2 Weldon, III. compliments GEORGE ELFERS M.D. BelHIower, III. CONGRATULATIONS Orfheldo A. Peithman ATTORNEY AT LAW Farmer City, III. SAYBROOK LOCKER > BUTCHERING • CURING • WRAPPING • QUICK FREEZING ... A Complete . . . HOME FREEZER SERVICE Phone 475-2911 Saybrook, III. 63 CONGRATULATIONS FARMER CITY ON YOUR 125th BIRTHDAY! We Are Proud To Have Served Your Community For Over 50 Years With Fine Bedding — Through Our Local Dealer . . . The FREDERICKSON FURNITURE CO. AMCO - ATLAS MATTRESS, INC. — SPRINGFIELD, ILL. 7 • We Manufacture We Distribute * SEPTI-SAN for waste disposal * RAT MURDER * MOUSE MURDER * AEROSOL HOME INSECTICIDE * AEROSOL HOUSE & GARDEN INSECTICIDE * AEROSOL ANT & ROACH SPRAY * AEROSOL INSECT REPELLENTS * AEROSOL ROOM FRESHENERS * ROACH & WATER BUG TABLETS * WATERLESS HAND CLEANERS SEPTI-SAN, Inc. FARMER CITY, ILL. Gatuitsiif, GltaAtm %G4/Uf "I want to be your Milkman" BOB MILLER Locally Produced Grade A Milk "It's Miles Fresher" "AT YOUR STORE or AT YOUR DOOR" MINNIE DEPT. STORES DRY GOODS and VARIETY FARMER CITY 'WHERE FRIENDS MEET" SAYBROOK 64 FISHER CURTIS ELECTRIC Roger J. Curl is, owner of the Curtis Electric Co., chased the business May 1, 1953 from the Jack Fuller Estate. The original owner, Lee A McBride, established the business about 1920 The store fea- tures electric appliances ami television sets. A re- pair service is also available. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis arc assisted by one employee. DAVIS SIGN and DISPLAY SERVICE Don Davis established the art and advertising business in September, 1954. Davis is self-employed and at various times has two employees. M. D. DAWSON & COMPANY The General Contractor business was established August 1. 1953 and is owned and operated by Merle and Eileen Dawson, partnership. The em- ployees vary in number from three to 10. DEWEY'S DRIVE-IN Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Gronau have operated the drive-in refreshment stand since 1955 during the summer months May 1 to October 1. The business began with a "Swirley-top" stand which operated one season. The Gronaus have added something each year and now sell all kinds of sandwiches, soft drinks and coffee. DIAMOND HORSESHOE Bob and Mary Ann McKinley established the package liquor and bar business here in 1948. Mr. and Mrs. McKinley are self employed with one other employee. DO DROP INN Mrs. Susie Norton purchased the restaurant building April 1, 1956. Joe Price had established the business in 1953. Mr. and Mrs. Norton are self employed and three others assist them. DOSS PLUMBING & HEATING Earl Doss established the plumbing and heating business in Farmer City on May 1, 1949. Doss is self-employed with Mrs. Doss as office assistant. GEORGE H. DUNN IMPLEMENT COMPANY George H. Dunn purchased the International Harvester, Farm Machinery dealorship May 16, 1947 from Robert T. Cord. The firm has 11 employees. C. M. DUFF, DENTIST C. M. Duff, D.D.S., purchased the dentistry busi- ness of Dr. C. C. Shafer April 20, 1940. The business had been established some 30 years prior by Dr. I C Morrical. Dr. Duff was employed here as a dentist and also had an office in Champaign prior to 1940. ELMORTEL Wilfred Wright purchased the Motel business in October. 155 from Ted Elmore who had established the business in 1952. The Motel is operated by Wright and three employees. EPPSTEIN SHOES E. M. Eppstein is owner of the retail shoe store which was purchased by his father, M. D. Eppstein March 1, 1886 from the Cummings Brothers. There are two employees. FARMER CITY CHEESE COMPANY Beatrice Foods CO purchased the Cheese Com- pany business In 1955 from Ken! land Dallies as a receiving station for milk. The Cheese Factory was established here in April, 1934. There are now three employees FARMER CITY FERTILIZER & CHEMICAL CO. The Farmer City Fertilizer and Chemical Co. is a corporation engaged in fertilizer sales. Doing busi- ness here since 1959, it now has five employees. FARMER CITY GRAIN COMPANY L. E. West purchased the grain elevator in No- vember, 1945 from Earl Murphey, Nels Johnson Es- tate and Lewis Shreve, who had operated for about 30 years. West formed a corporation January 1, 1955. There are 14 employees. FARMER CITY IGA FOODLINER Jesse S. Hammer and Mervin J. Gardner opened the IGA Foodliner here December 17, 1959. They now have 12 employees. Hammer and Gardner have been partners in the grocery business since 1946. Jesse S. Hammer, Sr., started the grocery store business in 1912 and continued until his death in 1934. Mrs. Hammer was manager of the business from 1934 to 1946. FARMER CITY JOURNAL Charles L. Russell purchased the printing and newspaper business November 1, 1961 from the estate of E. S. Wightman. The weekly newspaper and printing business was established in 1871. There are seven employees. FARMER CITY LOCKER PLANT Fred L. Reynolds purchased the locker plant for slaughtering and curing meat in October, 1959. The business was established in 1938 by the Reesers. Mr. Reynolds has two employees. FARMER CITY SALES and SERVICE Delbert Pointer is the owner and operator of the general repair auto shop, which he established in 1946. He has four employees. FARMER CITY STATE BANK The Farmer City State Bank opened for busi- ness November 1, 1941. It has 10 employees. FARMER CITY STOCK YARDS Cecil Doss is the owner of the livestock business which was purchased from Freehill Brothers, Mel- vin, III., about 10 years ago. There are two employees. FEDERAL-NORTH IOWA GRAIN COMPANY The grain firm of Gring and McCord leased their grain elevator to Federal-North Iowa Grain Co. of Champaign, III. in May, 1959. The original business was established in 1912 when the Cleveland Grain Co. built the first elevator where the present one (erected in 1946) now stands Federal-North Iowa Grain Co. operates a chain of elevators Seven peo- ple are employed for the local operation. FISHER EQUIPMENT COMPANY E. C Fisher purchased the farm machinery busi- ness January 1. 1959 from Was ne Fuller and Jim Puller, Wayne Fuller established Ihe business about 1935. Three persons are employed congratulations FARMER CITY 125 years young BLACK'S HARDWARE 112 W. GREEN CHAMPAIGN, ILL. • HARDWARE • HOUSEWARES • WATER SYSTEMS • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • PAINT • HAND and POWER TOOLS • SPORTING GOODS • TOYS — Free Off Street Parking — 'Your Family Hardware Center* (SCHRDCK FERTILIZER Bellflower Plant * Anhydrous Ammonia "The Nitrogen for the Farm" * Liquid Fertilizers Plow-down Starter USE The CROP-GUIDE SERIES Soil Test and The ECON-0-MASTER Program for TOP YIELDS LARRY HOFFMAN Phone: 6823 Farmer City, 111. . . . for the things you don't find in your own home town, TRY Bloomington's Downtown Stores WE EXTEND OUR VERY SINCERE congratulations on your 125th Anniversary A STORE OT FASHION BLOOMINGTON, ILL 66 1891 SAME FAMILY 1962 SAME LOCATION • i SAME QUAUTY MERCHANDISE REX JACKSON i 302 South Main Phone 4831 congratulations TO FARMER CITY on their 125th anniversary ALEXANDER LUMBER CO. — COMPLETE LINE OF — BUILDING MATERIALS Serving The Area For Over One Half Century PHONE 4422 Farmer City, III. GOTTLIEB'S CLOTHIERS, Inc 104-05 East Side Sq. Clinton, 111. HOME OF KUPPENHEIMER SUITS and OSHKOSH B' GOSH WORK and CASUAL CLOTHES FARMER CITY SALES & SERVICE Route 54 - Farmer City, 111. TELEPHONE 7641 * REPAIR SERVICE * ON ALL MAKES CARS and TRUCKS Official Truck Testing Station B 352 DELBERT POINTER, owner i i i i | I < < • OR I VI IN SERVICE • FREE PARKING AREA • SIDEWALK WINDOWS • COMPLETE BANKING SERVICE *&i0 * >0* * * 0i0»0m ■ AIM AMD IACI tTtllTt URBANA, ILLINOIS fav CORNIE'S SHOE STORE GIBSON CITY, ILL. SHOES for the entire family . . . *•"? SCHERTZ SERVICE LIVESTOCK - LIMESTONE PHOSPHATE Commercial Fertilizer Make One Call For Complete Trucking Service . . . Phone: 475-3331 Saybrook, III. TJARDES FARMS * Reg. Polled Herefords * Gibson City, III. congratulations FARMER CITY ON YOUR 125th ANNIVERSARY Hagerfy's PRIME RIB ROOM MOTEL URBANA 5 POINTS - URBANA, ILL. SCHLITZ the Beer with real Gusto . • MAURER DISTRIBUTING CO. DECATUR, ILL. , compliments OF Dr. C. M. DUFF 68 FREDERICKSON FURNITURE STORE D A. Frederickson purchased the retail furni- ture business in 1946 from Hammer & Webb Co. The business was established in 1905. There are three employees. GAMBLES Owner of the store is William M. Stratman, who conducts a retail hardware business and also handles gifts, toys, auto accessories and house- wares Stratman bought the business in 1957 from Don Thurbcr but a Gamble Store had been lo- cated in Farmer City since about 1935. The store is family operated with one extra employee. Mr. Stratman came to this city in 1953 and was owner of the Western Auto Store. GENE'S PAINT and WALLPAPER STORE Gene Buchanan and Harold Wheeler are co- owners of the paint and wallpaper store which they purchased from Vernell Kent July 1, 1958. They are self employed. GRIERS' RESTAURANT John J Grier Co. leased the building for Food Catering Co. in February, 1959 from Cities Service Oil Co. The restaurant business was established in 1938 by Ernest Meredith. Griers" have 21 employees. HARRIS TV SALES and SERVICE Harris TV Sales and Service is owned by Tneo. Harris. Established in 1953, it provides radio and television and repair service. He is self-employed. HARROLD'S CONOCO This Conoco Gasoline Station is owned and op- erated by Cecil Harrold who purchased it in 1949 from Russell Bateman. It was established here in 1936 and has two employees. HAWN & OVERTON Francis Hawn and John Overton, partners, pur- chased the John Deere Farm Equipment business in February, 1952 from W. R. Howe. Webb & Son had established the business in 1948. There are three employees. HEADLEE SALES and SERVICE K D Headlee purchased the implement busi- ness in February, 1960 from Kimball. The business has five employees. HENRY'S BARBER SHOP Earl Henry owns and operates his barber shop on East Green Street. He has been a resident of Farmer City since 1918 and was employed by the late L. S. Bealor"s barber shop for 33 years. Mr. Henry has been in the present location since 1955. HERRICK and GAMMAGE The law firm of Herrick and Gammage was pur- chased by Robert Gammage in January, 1961 from Herrick and Rudasill. This law firm stems from the original which was established in 1868 by George W. Herrick. Mr. Gammage has no employee. HERRING GENERAL CONTRACTOR Roscoe Herring operates a complete contracting and construction service, dating from 1937. He is assisted in his work by four employees. HORNSBY'S 5c to $100 STORE. Inc. Art Hornsby established the store here in 1942. Mrs. Frances Turpin is manager with four other employees. HUNT'S SERVICE STATION W. H. Hunt purchased the filling station Feb- ruary 20. 1935 from M. T. Collier. Mr. Hunt is self-employed and has one regular station attendant. IMOGENE'S BEAUTY SALON Mrs. Imogene Williams Kemplin has owned and operated her Beauty Shop since January 8, 1949. She is self-employed. ISAAC'S GARAGE John Isaacs established the garage and used car business about 16 years ago. He has one employee. JACKSON GROCERY Rex Jackson has owned and operated a grocery store since September 7, 1914. His father pur- chased the business and the building in 1891 from A. Z. Gony. The store is the only home-owned grocery in Farmer City and has one employee. JERRY'S BEAUTY SHOP Mrs. Wayne Milburn opened the beauty shop in May, 1960. Mrs. Milburn employs two beauty operators to assist her. KEMPLIN SHELL SERVICE STATION Fred Kemplin purchased the Service Station from Ed Owens July 7, 1957. The building was erected by Marshall Collier in 1938. Continuously since that date the various owners have leased the building for the operation of gasoline and oil filling stations. KENDALL THEATRE The Kendall Theatre, purchased in 1914 from Dave Mitchell by the late John T. and Kitty Ken- dall continues to be operated by Mrs. Kendall and furnishes movie entertainment for this vicinity. It is family operated. LAUNDROMAT William E. Prathcr installed equipment in the McGrew Building in 1959 for the purpose of a self sservice laundry. It is open 24 hours daily. In 1961 Mr Prather added three dryers and eight washers to meet the needs of the patrons. Two custodians are employed. LEWIS HARDWARE and SKELGAS In 1934 Robert Lewis owned and operated a radio and refrigerator sales and repair service in the Stensel Building on the west side of the City Park. In 1942 he added Skelgas stoves and service. In 1950 he purchased the hardware store from Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Rous which they had established in 1934. Mr. Lewis is assisted by Mrs. Lewis and one employee. LOWMAN TOGGERY Dean Lowman established the Men's Wear busi- ness here in 1935. Mr. Lowman is assisted in the store by Mrs. Lowman and his son Dean. LU FRAN CARD NOOK In September, 1951, Lucy A. Watson and Fran- ces Griffith converted one room of their home lo- cated at 325 South Plum Street into a display of Greeting Cards and novelties, for selling, which they operate together. CARROLL MCCARTNEY PLUMBING & HEATING Carroll McCartney established plumbing and heating business in 1947. He is self-employed. 69 , - ~^,^^»^.^.^«#»^»^'.« GUFFEY'S FOOD MARKET GROCERIES and MEATS DEL AND, ILL. MAXEY MOTORS 308 E. University Champaign, 111. • RAMBLER* phone 356-0568 — — —• »-7 congratulations ON YOUR 125th Anniversary from 20-T RESTAURANT and COCKTAIL LOUNGE 36 Main St. Champaign, 111. CHOICE STEAKS and CHOPS FRESH SEAFOOD COCKTAILS * ACETYLENE ELECTRIC BROWNLEE WELDING SHOP Highway 54 - East End of Town SABINA ELEVATOR SABINA, ILL. * GRAIN • FEED • SUPPLIES PHONE • LeRoy 962-3531 R.F.D., ARROWSMITH, ILL. PHONE 7292 FARMER CITY, ILL. j L. 70 Saybrook Grain Co. GRAIN - COAL -- FEED CUSTOM GRINDING and MIXING Phone 475-3361 Saybrook, III. — --T TROPHIES • Large Selection • Modern Design • For All Activities plus "24-HOUR ENGRAVING SERVICE" W. B. READ & (0. 109 N. Main-SPORTING GOODS-Bloomingfoo, III. The History of Farmer City Is A Legend of Progress Now, as we look confidently toward the future, we are proud to have shared in the past . . . BOWLING ^^^r LUNCH CORN BOWL, Inc. 420 N. MAIN ST. FARMER CITY, ILL. OUR SERVICE WILL PLEASE YOU YOUR BUSINESS WILL PLEASE US . . . ALVA and DEAN SCARBOUGH GENERAL AUCTIONEERING LIVESTOCK DEALERS • LIVESTOCK TRUCKING phone 5721 or 571 1 FARMER CITY, ILL. CRAFTS and HOBBIES FOR YOUNG and OLD Wood Fibre Flower Craft - Ceramics Texture Craft Panels - Jewelry Foam Rubber JOIN OUR CLASSES FOR FUN and PROFIT . . . THE CARD RACK PHONE 8121 FARMER CITY, ILL. CONGRATULATIONS ! from REED'S JEWELRY STORE CHAMPAIGN, ILL. * Diamonds * Watches STERLING by- GORHAM REED & BARTON FORK WALLACE CHINA by- LENNOX SPODE LUNT HEIRLOOM INTERNATIONAL TOWLE ROYAL DOULTON ROYAL WORCESTER GAMBLE STORE FARMER CITY • HARDWARE • SPORTING GOODS • HOUSEWARE • ELEC. SUPPLIES • AUTO SUPPLIES * BATTERIES • PAINT * TOYS * WHEEL GOODS ... WE SERVICE BICYCLES . . . 71 1864 1962 KNIGHTS of PYTHIAS KENILWORTH LODGE No. 60 FARMER CITY, ILL. MEETS EVERY THURSDAY CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMER CITY and the entire community on its 125th Anniversary We Are Proud To Have Served This Community At The Same Location For 77 Years . . . EPPSTEIN'S FOOTWEAR STEVE PARR HENRY SCHMITZ ED. EPPSTEIN FARMER CITY, ILL. *FINE JERSEYS* Have Been Here At . . . MAPLE MEADE FARM Walgreen' s Lowest Prices DEPENDABLE PRESCRIPTION SERVICE 201 N. NEIL ST. CHAMPAIGN, ILL. PHONE: 352-4722 PAXTONS, Inc. BLOOMINGTON, ILL. ROYAL TYPEWRITERS A. B. DICK DUPLICATING PROD. DICTAPHONE NCR ADDING & BOOKKEEPING MACH, ALL TYPES OFFICE FURNITURE Since 1896 C. Leslie James MANSFIELD, ILL. PHONE • FARMER CITY 5030 BEST WISHES for ANOTHER 125 YEARS OF PROGRESS . . . Community Bank of Mahomet MAHOMET, ILL. ALL DEPOSITS FEDERALLY INSURED TO $10,000 72 don McCartney plumbing & heating Don McCartney established the plumbing and heating business in March, 1947. He is self-em- ployed. McCONKEY MOTOR COMPANY Tom McConkey has been owner of the Ford and Mercury Car Agency since January, 1958 and the McConkey Body Shop for all makes of cars which was established in 1955. The Motor Company business was purchased July 1, 1951 by Tom and his father, Bud McCon- key who had owned the business with Elsie Alsip. There are 10 employees. MclNTYRE STANDARD SERVICE STATION Filling station purchased by Frank Mclntyre October 1, 1933 from H. C. Derr. Business estab- lished in 1921. Employs three attendants. McKINLEY OIL COMPANY Bulk plant owned and operated by John Mc- Kinley. The business was established in 1940 by Monarca Oil Co. and sold to McKinley in 1950. McKINLEY RODEO McKinley Rodeo, owned by "Bob" McKinley, Sr., provides rodeo and wild west entertainment. Established in 1934 as the McKinley and Selby Rodeo, it was purchased by McKinley from Amos Selby in 1944 and has approximately 30 employees. This rodeo shows at about 45 fairs and celebra- tions each season, from June through September. MAPLE GROVE CEMETERY George A. Wheeler, Sr., plotted the acreage south of Farmer City in 1895 for use of burial lots. It is now owned by a corporation and managed by Alva and Pearl Wheeler Scarbrough, who em- ploy one assistant. Mary Marie White, seven months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ira B. White was the first interred August 17, 1895. MASON REXALL DRUGS Leon Mason has owned the drug store since April 1, 1954. He purchased the business from W. P. Massock who had owned and operated the drug store for about 20 years. There are three regular employees. MEYERS REPAIR SHOP Chase Meyers owns and operates this furniture repair and upholstering business. It was operated on Main Street from 1934 until 1953 when sold to the Milburn Brothers. Since then Meyers has con- ducted the business from his home. MICHAEL ELECTRIC SERVICE Clarence Michael is the owner and operator of the electrical contracting and repair business which he established in 1951. Michael had been employed as electrican in L. A. McBride electric shop since 1936. MIDDLESTED MUSIC SHOP Middlested Music Shop, owned by Art Middle- sted is the city's first music shop, being opened in 1960. Art and his wife Lou, came here in 1942. She has given private music lessons and he taught in the local schools for 18 years. It is family operated. MINNIE DEPARTMENT STORE The general merchandise and dry goods store was purchased by Rex Minnie in 1942 from W. P. Loy who established the store here in 1941. Six persons are employed. MILBURN'S FARM SUPPLY This business is owned by Fred and Russell Mil- burn, who do plumbing, heating and pump repair work as well as canvas, shoe repairing and up- holstering. They purchased the business in 1953 from Chase Meyers who had conducted it since 1934. They have one employee. MORGAN DAIRY PRODUCTS Barney Morgan purchased Sealtest Dairy Pro- ducts October 1, 1961 from Russell Sypult. The busi- ness was established in 1945 by Sypult. Three per- sons are employed. NORTHERN ILLINOIS GAS CO. Northern Illinois Gas Co. provides natural gas for heating and other utilities. Its service in Farmer City began in 1956. Gas bills are payable at Mason's Drug Store. NOWLIN CLINIC The Nowlin Clinic was established by Dr. J. A. Nowlin, Osteopathic Physician, August 28, 1928. He was succeeded by his sons, Drs. Owen and Wilfred J. in 1903, who purchased the present building in 1910. George E. Castrovillo, M.D., purchased the Clinic from the Nowlin family August 1, 1961, after being associated with the Clinic for one year. PACE REAL ESTATE O. B. Pace Real Estate is owned and operated by O. B. Pace, real estate broker. The business was established in 1952 and has one employee. O. A. PEITHMAN, ATTORNEY AT LAW Ortheldo A. Peithman began his law practice in Farmer City September 1, 1948. Mrs. Peithman as- sists him with one other office employee. PEOPLES' CAFE The Peoples' Cafe was established in the pres- ent location on South Main Street in 1928 by Ora O'Neil. From that date until 1953 it was owned and operated by others. The present owners, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Helmick purchased the restau- rant in 1953 from Mr. and Mrs. Edward H. Linnig and have employees. All owners have retained the original name "Peoples' Cafe". PETRY'S PACKAGE LIQUOR STORE Paul Petry purchased the package liquor store in 1954 from Ronald Savage. He operates the store assisted by members of his family. PHIPPS DEPARTMENT STORE Owned by Phipps-Schokey, Inc. and managed by Minnie B. Wells, this store was purchased in 1951 from the Wilson Dry Goods. It is believed the same location was the site of a dry goods store in 1886 and continuously since. RAKER CLEANERS Raker Cleaners is owned and operated by Jor- dan L. Raker of Clinton, who provides dry clean- ing and laundry service. The business was estab- lished here in 1961 and Nora E. Tobin has charge of the local establishment. RHODES - EDMISON CHEVROLET COMPANY The partnership of Rhodes and Edmison pur- chased the Chevrolet Sales and Service October. 1961 from Lawrence Rust who erected the building and established the business on Highway 54 in 1950. Six persons are employed by Rhodes and Edmison. ROBERTS INSURANCE COMPANY The C. A. Roberts Insurance Co. is operated by C A. Roberts, insurance broker, who bought the business from Carl Nichols in 1952. This Insurance Co., previously the Walter Young Agency, had been in business in Farmer City since the turn of the century. It has one employee. 73 AMERICA - FARMER CITY AMERICA AND FARMER CITY HAS COME A LONG WAY . . . FROM THE LOG CABIN TO THE SKYSCRAPER . . . FROM THE COVERED WAGON TO THE JET PLANE . . . FROM THE HAND PLOW TO ATOMIC ENERGY. THE ROAD HAS NEVER BEEN EASY, BUT IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN CLEARLY MARKED ... ITS MILESTONES, THE BASIC RIGHTS ON WHICH FARMER CITY WAS FOUNDED AND BY WHICH IT HAS LTVED AND GROWN STRONG. WITH PRIDE WE LOOK BACK AT OUR PAST. WITH CONFIDENCE WE LOOK TO THE FUTURE AND ALL THAT LIES AHEAD, HOLDING RESO- LUTELY TO A WAY OF LIFE SO CRITICALLY TESTED, SO CONCLUSIVELY PROVED ... WE SHALL CONTINUE OUR FORWARD MARCH TO A BETTER LIFE FOR ALL . . . THIS IS FARMER CITY . . . FREDERICKSON FURNITURE COMPANY congratulations TO farmer an ON YOUR 125th Anniversary Village of Weldon Weldon, III. CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMER CITY Phipps Depf. Store ALWAYS FIRST IN QUALITY . . . Farmer City, III. "7 103 YEAR OLD A&P SALUTES FARMER CITY and its 125th Anniversary congratulations TO FARMER CITY . . . AND ITS 125th ANNIVERSARY BATEMAN OIL CO. Telephone 4541 74 Farmer City, III. compliments OF 7 r~ DR. F. R. STOUGHTON Farmer City, 111. JAKE & KATE'S Phone ST 4-8150 Gibson City, 111. F AMOUS OR INE OOD WM. W. JACOBS, prop. DELAND Farmer's Cooperative Grain & Lumber (o. PHONE 38 -- LUMBER CO. PHONE 48 - GRAIN CO. DELAND, ILL HOUSE of BEAUTY 1925 1962 Formerly O. C. Beauty Shoppe It has been our pleasure to serve the GRAND- MOTHERS of this area, their DAUGHTERS, GRAND-DAUGHTERS, and their GREAT-GRAND- DAUGHTERS during the past 37 years . . . Golda Flesner and Mildred Vance Licensed Beauticians OSEE L STENSEL OWNER i ~~~~- - „ , ^ .. .. ~.~.~*.~.^.*.*.*.^*.^*.^^^*.^^.*.*.*.^.^^^-. Westinghouse m. PEOPLE IS CHOICE" 7 r- RHODES-EDMISON CHEV. CO. CH EVROLET SALES and SERVICE PHONE 2179 Farmer City, 111. CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMER CITY . . . The LU-FRAN CARD NOOK LUCY A. WATSON-FRANCES GRIFFITH 325 S. Plum St. Farmer City, 111. r-»~- congratulations TO FARMER CITY MADDEN & TRIGG INSURANCE DEL AND, ILL. congratulations ON YOUR 125th Anniversary MAY YOUR COMMUNITY PROGRESS CONTINUE DELAND STATE BANK DELAND, ILL. congratulations TO FARMER CITY ON ITS 125th Anniversary ... A FRIEND . . . congratulations TO FARMER CITY It Is Our Pleasure To Furnish The Diamond Ring As The Runner-Up Prize In The Queen Contest .... See The Ring On Display In Our Window VAUGHN'S JEWELRY Telephone 5051 Farmer City, III We're Just Starting Our First 125 YEARS In Business with QUALITY MEATS JERRY'S MEAT MARKET LOCATED IN THE A&P STORE Telephone 5755 Farmer City, 111. 76 SCARBROUGHS TRUCKING COMPANY Alva Scarbrough and son, Dean, operate this trucking company, specializing in livestock truck- ing and hauling business. It was started in 1935 and is self-employed. VAUGHN'S JEWELRY Jewelry business was purchased by Clarence R. Bloom February 10, 1962 from Vaughn Oberlink who had established the jewelry store in 1950. Four employees. JOHN and DEDRA SELLETT. M.D.'s John W. Sellett, M.D. and Dedra Sellett, M.D. purchased the office equipment and general prac- tice of Dr. John Ziegler October 9, 1953. Dr. Zieglcr established his medical profession in 1901. SEPTI-SAN. INC. Mr. and Mrs. O. D. Thurber began the manu- facturing and distribution of rodenticides and in- secticides, bacteria and enzymes for waste destruc- tion, in August, 1954. Mr. Thurber employs three to six helpers according to seasonal sales. SHAFFER'S Shaffer's Antiques, Trash and Treasurers is owned and operated by Fred Shaffer, who buys and sells used furniture and other miscellaneous articles. Established in 1956 the business was op- erated on Highway 150 until 1959, when it was moved to the present Main St. location. There is one employee. SHELL MOTOR and MARINE SALES & SERVICE The Automotive and Marine Sales and Service is owned by L. K. Shell, J. M. Deeters and Gene- vieve Shell Deeters. Shell Motor Sales was established in 1939 by William Shell. Three persons are employed. SIGN SHOP J. F. Zumwall established the sign painting busi- ness in 1946. He is self-employed with two em- ployees. STENSELS FUNERAL HOME The firm of funeral directors, now comprised of Harlow M. Stensel, Vernell F. and Lester R. Sten- sel, was established in 1867 by their grandfather, John Stensel, Sr. After being located for many years on the west side of the City Park, the pres- ent building on the east side was purchased in 1928. In 1952 two adjoining buildings were bought and extensive remodeling was accomplished. As- sociated with the firm are six employees. DR. F. R. STOUGHTON, DENTIST F. R. Stoughton, D.D.S. came to Farmer City in 1938, starting practice with the late Dr. A. M. Wilkes. In 1940 he opened a dental establishment of his own. He has one employee. ROSS C. SWARTZ INSURANCE AGENCY Miss Daisy Vance purchased the insurance and real estate agency November 1, 1959 from Ross C. Swartz. Mr. Swartz established the business in 1932 and is still in real estate business. Miss Vance has one office employee. TARTER COAL COMPANY Leonard C. Tarter has owned and operated re- tail coal, general hauling and custom shelling busi- ness since April, 1949. He purchased the coal busi- ness from Jesse W. Hammer at that time. Golden Barger had started the retail coal business in 1932. Tarter has two employees. VOGUE CLEANERS After leasing dry cleaning equipment and build- ing on Green Street since 1955, Mr. and Mrs. Ver- non Greer established a complete dry cleaning ser- vice in the Augustus Building on Main Street Jan- uaury, 1962. They have one employee. WALSH GRAIN ELEVATOR This grain elevator, owned by Robert E. Walsh was purchased from R. M. Kelley in 1945. It has been in business since 1930 and has two employees. WILLIAMS' PLUMBING AND HEATING The service of Plumbing and Heating became a part of the Hardware Store established in 1892 by Henry L. Williams. In 1925 Harry W. Williams and Frank Williams purchased the business from the Henry L. Williams Estate. Harry has been selling and installing plumbing and heating units and sup- plies from his residence since 1945. WINS' ELECTRIC COMPANY Wins' Electric, whose owner is Winfield Spie- gel, specializes in electrical contracting. The busi- ness was opened here in 1957. He is self-employed. WOODY'S BARBER SHOP Woodrow Wood purchased the barber shop from L S. Bealor in 1956 and remained in the same lo- cation that had housed a barber shop one door south of the Commercial Hotel since in the 90's. Mr. Wood moved to his present location in 1937. He has no employee. WOOD'S STYLING SALON Mrs. Evelyn Wood established the beauty shop here in October, 1956. Mrs. Wood is self-employed. WYCKOFF REAL ESTATE Harlan B. Wyckoff established this real estate service here in 1958. It is self-owned and self- operated. YOUNG'S BARBER SHOP Jake Young purchased the shop in 1938 from John Walden. Mr. Young has been a barber in Farmer City since 1929. Two regular barbers are employed by Young to assist him. X-RAY LABORATORY and OPTICAL OFFICE J. Nile Mitchell, optometrist, purchased the busi- ness in 1946 from Stuart E. Kelley, O.D., who had established the business May 12, 1910. Dr. Mitchell has one office assistant. THE WICKES CORPORATION The Wickes Corp. lumber yard in Farmer City was opened in 1959 and is one of a series of yards spread throughout most of the nation. They sell lumber, plumbing, electrical and heating supplies to a wide area in central Illinois. Jay Harford is currently manager of the operation that has 12 employees. FARMER CITY NURSING HOME, INC. The Farmer City Nursing Home, Inc., owned and operated by Gary and Luella Graves, was opened Aug. 20, 1959. It has a capacity of 22 persons cared for by eight employees in addition to the Graves' 77 pcMalh' EXTENDS CONGRATULATIONS TO THE COMMUNITY OF FARMER CITY AND YOUR 125th ANNIVERSARY ... "FROM ONE OLDTIMER TO ANOTHER" • AIRLINE • • MOTOR COACH ESTABLISHED IN 1924, OUR ORGANI- ZATION NOW PROVIDES CENTRAL ILLI- NOIS WITH A COMPLETE TRAVEL SER- VICE IN GROUP AND INDEPENDENT TRANSPORTATION . . . • RAILROAD • • STEAMSHIP • DOMESTIC and INTERNATIONAL • PARKHILLS PHONE 359-1675 TRAVEL 120 S. WALNUT AGENCY -SS --- TRAVEL IS OUR MIDDLE NAME --- 78 PATRONS OF THE ANNIVERSARY MR. and MRS. FLOYD KING — FARMER CITY, ILLINOIS ARTHUR MIDDLESTED — FARMER CITY, ILLINOIS M. D. DAWSON & CO. — FARMER CITY, ILLINOIS HARRY WILLIAMS — FARMER CITY, ILLINOIS CHARLIE THOMPSON — FARMER CITY, ILLINOIS KINSELLA DISTRIBUTING CO. — BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS B & H LOCKER — LEROY, ILLINOIS VAN MOTOR SALES — LEROY, ILLINOIS WELDON LUMBER CO. — WELDON, ILLINOIS KARL PETERSON - FRIGIDAIRE — WELDON, ILLINOIS BARNEY'S PRODUCE — WELDON, ILLINOIS RAILSBACK ELEVATOR — WELDON, ILLINOIS SHINNEMAN KINGSTON INSURANCE — WELDON, ILLINOIS TRIGG'S DRY GOODS, DELAND, ILLINOIS NORTON CAFE — DELAND, ILLINOIS DELAND TRIBUNE — DELAND, ILLINOIS FOSTER'S STANDARD SERVICE — BELLFLOWER, ILLINOIS SPRAU'S FERTILIZER SERVICE — BELLFLOWER, ILLINOIS REATHA'S DINNER BELL INN — BELLFLOWER, ILLINOIS STEWART AUTO SUPPLY CO. — CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS HENRY HAGER LUMBER CO. — GIBSON CITY, ILLINOIS CASE'S SANDWICH SHOP — GIBSON CITY, ILLINOIS JOHNSON MOTOR SERVICE — GIBSON CITY, ILLINOIS CANNON - BALL — CLINTON, ILLINOIS FOR THEIR HELP BUSINESS INNOVATIONS Some of the people, both in and out of the community, who contributed to celebration include the following to whom the queen committee is in- debted for their generosity and cooperation in ob- taining the most attractive gifts for the "Miss An- niversary Queen Contest." Parkhill Travel Agency "Travel Is Our Middle Name" Champaign, 111. Robeson's Department Store "The Store of Friendly Service" Champaign, 111. Vaughn's Jewelry Store "Where Experience and Confidence Counts" Farmer City, 111. Farmer City State Bank "A Bank You'll Like" Farmer City, 111. Phipps Department Store "Quality Merchandise at Sensible Prices" Farmer City, 111. Woodlawn Country Club Farmer City, 111. For the use of their facilities for the queen contest reception. There are others, of course, who contributed in one way or another. The list, however, would be too long to fully describe. Business innovations which have been estab- lished here in the changing times. Since 1937: BOWLING MOTEL ANHYDROUS AMMONIA EXPORTING OF GRAIN DRIVE-IN QUICKIE SNACK BAR "SOFT" ICE CREAM STANDS EXCLUSIVE WELDING BUSINESS MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF RAT AND MOUSE KILLER POWDER - AEROSOL INSECTICIDE - ROOM DEODORANTS - BACTERIA EMZO FOR SEPTIC TANKS CASH AND CARRY LUMBER YARD AND BUILDING SUPPLY CO. SUPER-MARKET GROCERY TELEVISION SALES AND REPAIR SHOP HATCHERIES AND MASS PRODUCTION OF EGGS BOAT SALES AND SERVICE NURSING HOME TELEPHONE ANSWERING SERVICE 7'J fit ai n ■ I!: 95 Years OF SERVICE TO THIS COMMUNITY ESTABLISHED IN 1867 by our Grandfather JOHN STENSEL, Sr. We have expanded and now have 4 Funeral Homes • FARMER CITY • LEROY • BELLFLOWER • MANSFIELD THE STENSELS HARLOW -- VERNELL - LESTER i „ p^^^^»^ ^^ ^^ ^ ^ ^ ^d 80 THREE FOR THE SERVICE i 1 ii 'i \ ON FARMER CITY'S 125th ANNIVERSARY There Are Three Agricultural Companies Providing The Best And Most Complete Service To Farm and Community In The Area . . . FARMER CITY GRAIN CO. - CASH MARKET FOR GRAIN -- - HIGHEST QUALITY SEED - FARMER CITY FERTILIZER and CHEMICAL CO. - COMPLETE FERTILIZER SERVICE - - MODERN SOIL TESTING LABORATORY - PACIFIC GRAIN CO. . . . SERVING BOTH DOMESTIC AND EXPORT MARKETS - EXPANDING FACILITIES - GRAIN SHIPMENTS TO BOTH EUROPE AND THE ORIENT . . . *AII These Services* In One Stop . . . • PREMIUM MARKET FOR CERTAIN VARIETIES OF SOY BEANS. • CASH MARKET FOR YOUR GRAIN. • PREMIUM MARKET FOR QUALITY SEED. • STATE APPROVED SOIL TESTING LABORATORY. • ALL YOUR FERTILIZER, AGRICUL- TURAL CHEMICAL AND SEED NEEDS. • COMPLETE GRAIN MARKETING FACILITIES, BOTH DOMESTIC AND AND FOREIGN. • STORAGE AND DRYING FACILI- TIES. Farmer City Grain Lo. PACIFIC GRAIN CO. FARMER CITY FERTILIZER and CHEMICAL CO. FARMER CITY, ILL. YOU RECEIVE AT THE FARMER CITY STATE BANK THE PERSONAL CARE, INTEREST AND ATTENTION THAT HAVE DISTINGUISHED THIS BANK THROUGHOUT ITS HISTORY . . . THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO WORK HERE ASSURE YOU THE BEST IN BANKING SERVICE. INDIVIDUALLY AND AS A GROUP THEY CAN GIVE YOUR BUSINESS AFFAIRS SOME- THING EXTRA IN THE WAY OF BANKING . . . YOU ARE INVITED TO MAKE COMPLETE USE OF THE EFFICIENT AND DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT THIS STRONG, FRIENDLY, HELPFUL BANK . . . Farmer City State Bank CAPITAL . . . '100,000.00 SURPLUS . . . $ 200,000.00 RESERVE . . . $ 100,000.00 -OFFICERS- LOTT C. HOWE President RICHARD K. DRAKE Executive Vice President and Trust Officer DEAN BRIGHT Vice President and Cashier EDWARD M. VANCE Vice President WANDA BURTON Assistant Cashier PHEBE GALAWAY Assistant Cashier DIANE KING Teller JANIS MAXWELL Teller LOIS A. ADAMS Bookkeeper JOELINE ARMSTRONG Bookkeeper PAUL RUTHERFORD Building Custodian - DIRECTORS - DEAN BRIGHT GEORGE E. DRAKE RICHARD K. DRAKE ROBERT E. DRAKE D. A. FREDERICKSON LOTT C. HOWE BERYL W. RUTLEDGE MEMBER FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION •*•*»""" «2S* UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA 977 358F22S C001 SIX SCORE AND FIVE FARMER CITY I III I 301" 2 025393783