LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN 977.365 C83h I.H.S. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign http://archive.org/details/historyofhoopestOOcoxs UN1VERSI I W01S J. S. M'FERREN First Mayor of Hoopeston %J) A History of HOOPESTON WORLD'S GREATEST CORN CANNING CENTER 1 Published By The Chronicle-Herald "Hoopeston's Community Newspaper" To those men who so nobly responded to their country's call in time of need and who brought honor to the folds of the flag they kept unstained —the mem- bers of Ira Owen Kreager Post, No. 384, Department of Illinois, American Legion, this book is affection- ately dedicated. Compiled and Edited by S. V. Cox C<3 3 w PREFACE HIS book represents the labor of six month in pre- paring it for the public and represents many years of foresight on the part of The Chronicle- Herald, Hoopeston's Community Newspaper, in collect- ing and preserving data of historical value with a view to saving it for posterity in the form in which it is herewith presented. Every painstaking care to make it as accurate as is possible has been taken. It was designed to tell the civic, commercial, industrial and social story of Hoopes- ton from the date of the founding of the city to the present date. Within its covers can be found infor- mation that has never been placed in book form be- fore. It represents the first actual history of Hoopes- ton alone, that has ever been published and in years to come when the city has grown greatly and another half century has passed by, will form the foundation for historians who will undoubtedly take up this work after the city has passed its One Hundredth Anniver- sary. Grateful acknowledgment is made for the aid rend- ered by the following persons without whose efforts this book would not have been possible: General Pas- senger Agent E. H. Batchelder, of the C. & E. I. Rail- road ; Ex-Mayor I. E. Merritt, of Hoopeston ; Ex-Mayor John A. Heaton, of Hoopeston ; Leroy Songer, of Hoop- eston ; E. H. Gustine, of Hoopeston ; Leonard D. Roark, of Hoopeston; Bertha M. York, of Hoopeston; Judge Dale Wallace, of Hoopeston ; the various industrial en- terprises and business concerns of the city and the Central Illinois Public Service Company of Hoopeston Table of Contents CHRONOLOGICAL HISTORY PAGES 1 TO 26 The Founding of Hoopeston Chapter I, Page 1 1878 to 1895 Chapter II, Page 7 1895 to 1919 . . _.Capter III, Page 12 1919 to 1925 Chapter IV, Page 19 Political Subdivisions _ . _ Page 25 HOOPESTON IN THE WORLD WAR PAGES 27 TO 50 General Review Page 27 Company B, Page 29 War Service Page 32 The Honor Roll Page 39 The Draft Board Page 45 Red Cross Page 46 War Chest Page 4? Liberty Loans Page 48 LODGES AND ORGANIZATIONS PAGES 51 TO 67 Ira Owen Kreager Post, American Legion Page 51 Harmon Post, No. 115, G. A. R .Pag^ 56 Daughters of American Revolution Page 57 Masonic Lodges Page 59 Modern Woodmen Page 60 The Royal Neighbors Page 62 The Knights of Columbus .. Page 62 Hoopeston Lodge I. O. O. F. Page 65 Mary Hart well Catherwood Club Page 65 L. O. O. M Page 66 COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES PAGES 68 TO 85 General Survey Page 68 Chamber of Commerce Page 69 Hoopeston National Bank . . Page 73 The First National Bank... Page 75 Newspapers Page 77 Business Directory Page 80 INDUSTRIAL HOOPESTON PAGES 86 TO 113 Illinois Canning Company. .Page 86 Hoopeston Canning Co. . . . Page 88 Sprague-Sells Corporation, Page 91 Vermilion Malleable Iron, Page 96 The American Can Co. Page 98 The Oiff-Bruff Company .. Page 99 Ice & Cold Storage Co Page 99 P. H. Webber Co Page 100 A. W. Murray Co Page 101 Telephone Company Page 104 C. I. P. S. Co Page 105 C. & E. I. Railroad Page 107 Nickel Plate Road Page 108 General Review Page 111 PARKS AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS PAGES 114 TO 124 Tho Federal Building. . .Page 115 McFerren Park Page 121 The Public Library Page 117 City (North) Park Page 122 The City Hall Page 119 Union Park Page 123 City Waterworks Page 120 Floral Hill Cemetery Page 123 City Schools Page 120 HOOPESTON CHURCHES PAGES 125 TO 137 General Review Page 125 St Anthony's Cathofic First M. E. Church Page 127 Church Page 135 First Church of Christ. . . .Page 129 Society of Friends First Presbyterian Church Page 130 (Quakers) Page 136 United Presbyterian Christian Science Church Page 136 Church Page 131 Free Methodist Church. . .Page 137 Universalist Church Page 133 Other Denominations Page 137 Baptist Church .Page 134 THE COLD NEW YEAR PAGES 138 TO 140 By "OF Settler"— Robt. F. Cooper ADVERTISING SECTION C. & E. I. Railroad. The Lorraine Theater Sprague-Sells Corporation. Hoopeston National Bank The Chronicle-Herald The First National Bank The American Legion. The Illinois Canning Company The Tliff-Bruff Chemical Co. The Hoopeston Canning Company The Hoopeston Chamber of Com- The Central Illinois Public Service merce Company. FULL PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS J. S. McFerren, First Mayor of Hoopeston Frontispiece Alba Honeywell, Mayor 1879-1880 Page 8 Charles A. Allen _ _ Page 10 Charles F. Dyer Page 14 William Moore _ _ Page 16 D. J. McFerren, Mayor 1925 Page 22 G. H. Couchman, City Attorney, 1925. Opp. Page 24 Major E. C. Thornton and Horse _ Page 28 Captain John H. Steward _ Page 31 First Lieut. Mitchell S. Cash Page 33 Second Lieut. Lloyd P. Petry _ Page 35 Company B, 129th Infantry _ Opp. Page 36 Ira Owen Kreager Page 52 The Lorraine Theater _ . _ . . . Opp. Page 68 George E. Evans Page 71 William McFerren _ _ Page 74 "Judge" Dale Wallace Page 76 Chester A. Aldrich _ _ . .Opp. Page 78 Robert R. Rodman Opp. Page 80 The Hoopeston Canning Company Page 89 The Sprague-Sells Canning Machinery Plant- Page 93 The Vermilion Malleable Iron Company . . . _ Page 97 The Town Clock Building Page 114 The Methodist Church Parsonage Page 126 OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS Name Page Thomas Hoopes 2 D. M. Shankland 13 C. S. Crary 15 H. C. Finley 15 John A. Heaton 19 Walter Holmes 23 L. D. Wood 23 Dr. A. J. Clay 24 Srt. E. R. Deck 36 Lieut. Alba Cromer 39 F. K. Boudinard ... 39 Col. Green and Staff 38 L. H. Deck .' 40 Lieut. A. J. Dallstream 40 Capt. C. F. Dyer 41 Capt. L. B. Dyer 41 Lieut. Harry Kivell 42 Lieut. J. B. Kerr 42 Louis J. Willett 42 Lieut. Claude Forshier 43 Lieut. C. S. Miller 43 E. C. Thornton 44 Lieut. Ralph Stine 45 Franklin Johnson 55 Name Page Hoopeston National Bank 72 I. E. Merritt ... 73 C. W. Warner 78 Dr. J. M. Hannell 81 John F. Ost 81 B. R. Burton 81 L. E. Alkire 82 Dr. F. P. Johnson 84 Ogden S. Sells 91 Ralph Webber 100 Kelly A. Cardiff 110 J. H. Dyer 117 Carnegie Library 118 Greer College 120 W. R. Lovvery 121 McFerren Park Pavilion 122 Methodist Episcopal Church .... 127 Rev. C. H. Young 128 First Church of Christ 129 First Presbyterian Church 131 United Presbyterian Church 132 Universalist Church 133 Baptist Church 134 First Catholic Church in Hoopeston 135 The Founding of Hoopeston Coming of The Railroads — Laying Out of the City — The Town of Leeds — The Village War — Efforts of Pioneer Residents — Completion of First Building — The First Newspaper — The First School Building — Incorporation of Village of Hoopeston — Village Government — City is Incorporated — First Elec- tion of City Officers — The Saloon Question. In the year 1870 twin agents of civilization and improvement were extending their way across eastern Illinois ; two railroads, one of them known as the Chicago, Danville and Vincennes, (now the Chicago and Eastern Illinois) the other The Lafayette, Bloom- •ngton and Western, (later the Lake Erie and Western, and now a branch of the Nickle Plate Railroad.) Had the original plan of the Chicago road been followed, it would have crossed the Lafay- ette, Blocmington & Western about two. miles east of the pres- ent crossing. But there were three considerations taken into ac- count concerning the point of intersection. These were: the pro- posed crossing was in a low flat location ; Thomas Hoopes offered to give 80 acres of land to have the crossing west, on the hill near the present Cunningham farm; and for services rendered the pro- moters felt under obligations to Alba Honeywell to let him se- lect the point of intersection. Mr. Honeywell chose the site of the present intersection. The railroad company then offered to name their station Honeywell, which honor was declined. The country was sparsely settled in 1870. The highlands were cultivated partly, the low lands had not been touched and the bal- ance was used for pasturage. Very little of it had ever been fenced. It was in this condition in 1871, when the proposed rail- road lines had been surveyed through this section by engineers. Settlers had little faith in the actual coming of the railroad, scoff- ing at it as "the effort of men who had more money than brains." The lines of the Lafayette, Bloomington & Western were surveyed, staked out and construction work started. This road reached the intersection first, in 1871, and it was not until May, 1872, that the Chicago, Danville & Vincennes reached the cross- ing. It was at once seen that the new railroad intersection would make a desirable place for the founding of a town. Milford was the nearest place on the north, Oxford on the east, Rossville on the south and Paxton on the west. Realizing this, some quick work was done in buying land and platting it into town lots. Adjacent to the spot where the railroads crossed were forty acres of land, known as the "lost Forty/' (because of the dif- ficulty of finding the previous owners) then owned by Joseph M. Satterwhaite, who with Thomas Hoopes, in 1871, laid out on a part of this tract, and on land owned by the latter, the original town of Hoopeston, Illi- nois, which consisted only of the lots fronting on West Main street and a tier of lots facing Penn street. Additions, located south on what is now known as on lands which nearly surround- ed the Satterwhaite tract, fol- lowed in rapid succession. At this time land in this sec- tion was selling at $6 or less an acre. Alba Honeywell, acting as the agent of Young & Co., one of the two railroad construction companies, through Gideon Dav- is, an agent for the Hoopes land, had attempted to buy forty acres at $25 per acre, but a mis- understanding arose which pre- vented completion of the deal. Mr. Honeywell then secured an interest in the Thompson land, adjoining the above mentioned tracts on the north and proceeded to survey and plat North Hoopeston; which embraced lands adjacent to and north of the present Nickle Plate railroad and east of the now C. & E. I. rail- road. Adjoining this tract on the east at about this time William Moore and Noah Brown laid out Moore & Brown's addition to the City of Hoopeston. Meanwhile, Snell, Taylor and Mix, of Chicago, Railroad Con- struction Company, bought 1,000 acres of land on the west side of the Chicago railroad and in November, 1871, laid out the land in lots and called their town Leeds. This addition extended west to present Sixth Avenue and south four blocks and one-half to Thomas Hoopes Maple street. Strife broke out between the two rival sections of the city in an effort to name the entire city. Leeds scored the first victory in this battle when they obtained the postoffice and caused it to be named Leeds. Its location was shortly after changed to Hoopeston and was mjoved into the original town where it has remained since. The first postoffice was established in October, 1871, and J. M. R. Spinning was appointed postmaster, a position he con- tinued to hold until 1878. Old documents in the possession of post- office officials at the present day set the salary of this first post- master, Mr. Spinning, at $12 per year. In addition to this sal- ary $8 per year was allowed for transportation of mails from Rossville to Hoopeston, it being necessary to bring the mails from that city in a buggy. The first mail arrived on the 9th of December. It was not until January 1872 that mail came by the trains into Hoopeston. While the struggles between the north and west sides were in progress others were not idle. Roger Casement was early in the fight. He bought and platted a tract of land extending from Market street two and one-half blocks east and from Penn street two blocks south, which he called Casement's addition and upon this tract the first residence was built, on the southeast corner of Washington and Fourth streets. The first store building was completed and occupied on Lot 69, Main Street, by David Bedell, who stocked it with general merchandise in 1871. This was soon followed by the first hard- ware store by William Moore and W. A. Brillhart. In October 1871 religious services were first held in Hoopes- ton in the store of a Mr. McCracken. For many months this store was the headquarters for religious instruction. No denominational factions had arisen and no credentials were required other than that a man could preach in order to occupy McCracken's pulpit. The Methodist society was organized in 1872, by the Rev. F. B. F. Hyde, of Rossville, and presiding elder, Rev. Preston Wood. The preaching was at first conducted at McCracken's store. The Unit- ed Presbyterian Church and the First Presbyterian Church were both established in May, 1872, and were followed by the Baptist Church in 1873. The First Church of Christ, (Christian) was or- ganized in June 1873, by Elder Rawley Martin with 12 members. There were representatives of the Friends Society (Quakers) here at Hoopeston from the laying out of the new town. Joseph M. Satterwhaite was one of the leaders of this sect and it was at his home that first mjeetings were held. In the fall of 1873, Isaac T. Lukens erected a building at the corner of Third and Main streets and arranged it as a meeting house. The struggle between the north and west sides kept up for several years. One of the features of this fight was the part played by George H. White, who graded many of the streets on the west side and planted miles of soft Maple trees. To Mr. White belongs the credit for the many trees along the streets of Hoopes- ton for his example was followed in other parts of the town. As a result of the different additions to the original p ] at, Hoopeston became a city of magnificent distances between im- provements. Before long there were scattering cheap frame struc- tures on Main street, used for business and residences, on Mar- ket street north from Davis street to the City Park were stores of general merchandise, hardware, drugs, etc. Over in Leeds a hotel, called the Hibbard House, stood on the southwest corner of Penn street and Second Avenue. Across the street was a large brick building, the double rooms of which were filled with general merchandise. Just across the street south, W. R. Clark had a large stock of hardware. Each division tried to permanently locate the business district within its borders, which ultimately found its way to the central portion of the town. Main street business lots sold for $150 and the best residence lots in the town could be bought for $125. The name of Hoopeston spread abroad and in 1874 the city had a population of 1,000. Among the early pioneers who came to Hoopeston to build permanent homes and who gave character to the town were Alba Honeywell, J. S. McFerren, William Moore, Dale Wallace, A. H. Trego, R. M. Knox, Peter F. Levin, James A. Cunningham, A. T. Catherwood and W. R. Clark. There were others, but it is gen- erally conceded that these named in a special manner exerted a progressive influence which impressed itself on the future des- tiny of Hoopeston. The first newspaper was established in Hoopeston by Dale Wallace with the assistance of Gideon W. Seavey. The first num- ber was issued on the 11th of January, 1872, and w r as called 'The North Vermilion Chronicle." The first number gave a faithful ac- count of the early days of Hoopeston. The paper continued to be published under that name for a year and a half, and then the name was changed to the "Hoopeston Chronicle" and was con- tinued for many years under that name by Mr. Wallace Hoopeston was incorporated as a village in 1874. The first civil organization took place in January of that year. During the three years previous, the county and township government had proved sufficient for the new towm, but its rapid growth soon necessitated organization. The village organization of Hoopeston continued for three years and three months until April 1877. T. J. Corr was president of the First Board of Village Trustees, which was composed of J. Bedell, W. R. Clark, S. P. Thompson, I. N. Danner and L. R. North. J. M. R. Spinning was the clerk of this first board and Jacob S. McFerren its treasurer. This first village board served only three months and one-half — from the middle of January, 1874, until April, 1874. An election was then held to fill the offices for the next year, April, 1874, to April, 1875. No sooner had the village organization become a fact with a live board of directors until the public spirt of the people demanded a better development in the matter of schools. A board of directors was elected— G. C. Davis, A. L. Armstrong and Wil- liam Moore. The first need was a suitable school house. Whether a large, roomy centrally located building should be built at a good sized cost or whether numerous cheaper scattered buildings should be built, became an issue. William Moore was one of the most earnest advocates of the first named — a big central build- ing — and this plan was adopted and resulted in the erection of the Honeywell School building, the first in Hoopeston. The second village administration was headed by N. L. Thompson, president of the Board of Trustees ; T. Watkins, L. Armstrong W. A. Brillhart, S. P. Thompson and W. R. Clark forming the board for this year. W. R. C]ark did not comnip'o his term of office, however, resigning and his position being filled by William McFerren. J. S. McFerren had been re-elected to the office of treasurer of the board. The th ; rd village administration — 1875 to 1876 — was head- ed by S. P. Thompson, as president ; Joseph Green, Thomas Wat- kins, W. S. Leach, William Glaze and T. E. Mullin forming the board. L. Armstrong was the clerk and J. S. McFerren was named to serve his third consecutive term as treasurer of the village. The last village administration — 1876 and 1877 — was head- ed by Samuel Noggle as president, the board being composed of the following: Thomas Woolverton, C. Webb, J. Bedell, Joseph Crouch and E. D. Frayne. John W. Hughes served as clerk of this board and W. R. Clark was its treasurer. In April 1877, the City of Hoopeston was incorporated. The establishment of a saloon in the outskirts of the village some months before had aroused resentment on the part of many citi- zens of the thriving little city and the first election issue was, "No license for saloons." To settle this matter once and for all, a number of the leading citizens gathered, just before the election of city officers, in a little room on Main street, about where the Dyer-Knox building now stands to decide the future policy of the city regarding the liquor traffic. At this meeting it was deter- mined that a city could be built, with sidewalks, streets and schools without the aid of revenue from saloons and from this lit- tle gathering the edict went forth to the world that Hoopeston was pre-eminently and distinctively a temperance town, and that saloons would not be tolerated. The next step was the finding of a mayor and a city council who could — and would — conduct the affairs of the young city on this basis. Jacob S. McFerren, known at that time as "The Boy Banker," was asked if he would accept the mayoralty under those conditions. He agreed to do so and said to the committee: "If you will find me a council who will serve me, I will serve without salary, so that the money or- dinarily paid out for that purpose may in part make up for the loss in license revenue." Such a council was found and elected as follows: Aldermen: First Ward, Thomas Williams, N. Towell, Johnathan Bedell ; Alder- men, Second Ward, A. M. Fleming, John N. Miller and Joseph Crouch. W. M. Young was elected as city clerk ; A. Randies as city treasurer; A. E. McDonald was city attorney. A. H. Young, po- lice magistrate; D. P. Haas, marshal and Superintendent of Streets, J. Diehl. It was soon found that the unpaid services of the council and officers was illegal and that their acts were void. In order to obviate this it was voted to pay the mayor a salary of $1 per year and the aldermen each 50 cents. Under the able direction of the first city officials the new municipality prospered and grew fast. At the close of the admin- istration it was estimated that the population of the city was around 2,000 persons. Gaps in the business district were being filled up with the coming of new merchandising enterprises. The most significant fact that was proved by the first administra- tion, however, was that the city could be maintained without rev- enue from saloon licensing, the condition of the city's finances at the end of the first two years of municipal government leaving no doubts in the minds of those who were its leaders. Establish- ment of the custom of a nominal salary for the mayor and board of aldermen, a custom that is observed at the present day, by Mayor J. S. McFerren, is another outstanding event of this first administration. Chapter 11-1878 to 1895 Second City Administration, 1878-1879 — Third City Administra- tion 1879-1880 — Alba Honeywell Heads City Government- First Canning Factory is Established— 1881-1882 City Gov- ernment — Addition of Third Ward — City Growth — Develop- ment of Canning Industry — Hoopeston Canning Factory Es- tablished— 1882-1883; 1883-1884; 1884-1885, 1885 to 1895. So well did the city prosper and grow during the first city administration that its head, Mayor Jacob S. McFerren was re- elected without opposition in April, 1878. W. M. Young had been re-elected as city clerk and S. P. Thompson was named to serve his first term as city treasurer succeeding A. Randes. This was due to the passing of a law providing that no. city treaurer couid become a candidate to succeed himself, in force from the organiza- tion of Hoopeston to the present day. A. E. McDonald was re- elected to the office of city attorney and William Glaze became Police Magistrate. Aldermen in the first ward were: W. I. Hobert, W. R. Wilson and Samuel Noggle. Second ward aldermen were: A. M. Fleming, John N. Miller and Joseph Crouch. The second city administration was marked by continuing growth of the new city and establishing of the fact that this section was an ideal spot for the raising of sweet corn. Settlers were pouring in from the eastern states and land values rising. Many of these came to the new town to make their home while others located on the farms surrounding it. The town becamie the clearing center for the marketing of produce of these farms and it was not long until means of making this of greater value to the city was being dis- cussed. No action industrially was taken until in 1880, however, although the first agitation in this line of endeavor properly be- longs to the division of time 1878 to 1879. In April, 1879, when the time rolled around for the next city election, efforts were made to have J. S. McFerren again make the race for mayor of this city, but this pioneer citizen refused the honor. Casting about for a suitable citizen to maintain the pro- Alba Honeywell, Mayor 1S79 and 1880 g ressiveness of the city the name of Alba Honeywell was present- ed and he was chosen for the office. There was no change in the other offices of the city government with the exception of the election of J. H. Dyer as city attorney and the naming of T. B. Tennery as city marshal and superintendent of streets. In the summer of 1880, Stephen S. McCall, an experienced can- cer from the State of New York, came west on a prospecting trip, trying to find a place where sweet corn would grow in sufficient quantities to warrant the establishment of a canning factory. He was attracted to Hoopeston and so impressed was he with its pos- sibilities as a corn canning center that he established the first corn canning factory here. The old brick building which had served as beadauarters for the Snell. Taylor & Mix Construction Company housed this first canning factory which was a financial success from the start, later to become known as the "Illinois Canning Company." In 1881 the city had grown to such proportions that in ordei.* to equalize the burden of government and insure representation of all sections of the city a third ward was added to the political divisions of the town. At the same time another change was made which has survived to the present day, the number of aldermen from each of the now three wards of the city being placed at two, instead of three who had formerly served. In this period — 1881- 1882 — occurred some of the greatest industrial development of the city. J. S. McFerren had again been called upon to head the city government in the capacity of mayor and William Moore and A. H. Trego were elected as aldermen from the second ward of the city. M. D. Calkins and C. W. Gay were the aldermen from the first ward while L. W. Anderson and James Hanna were the first aldermen to serve from the newly organized third ward of the city. Harlin M. Steely served as city attorney from 1881 to 1882. Addition of a new city official was also noted during his period, David M. Bingaman serving as superintendent of streets. Previous to this time the city marshal had also acted in this ca- pacity but the town had grown to such an extent that it was no longer possible for the marshal to care for the duties of both offices. Influenced by the success of the canning factory established by S. F. McCall, in the summer of 1882 J. S. McFerren, A. H. Trego and A. T. Catherwood incorporated the Hoopeston Canning Fac- tory. This second industrial enterprise was a success from its inception in the minds of the three incorporators and soon became a fitting mate for the Illinois Canning Company. Attracted by the great quantity of tin cans needed here by these two factories every year, the Union Can Manufacturing com- pany was established, later to become a branch of the American Can Company, one of the greatest concerns of its nature in the world. 10 CHARLES A. ALLEN Member of Illinois Legislature 1884-1902. City Attorney of Hoopeston 1893-94-95. Police Magistrate of Hoopeston 1923-1925. 11 Mayer Jacob S. McFerren served the city in the capacity of its chief executive for three consecutive terms from 1881 until 1884. In April 1884 he was re-elected despite his protest and on April 21 resigned to be succeeded by Samuel P. Thompson who served out his unexpired term. The name of James H. Dyer first appears in the history of Hoopeston in the 1882 administration, his first political office being that of alderman from the third ward. The word had gone out to the world that Hoooeston was a eighty good place to live, the attitude toward the saloon question aiding in fostering this belief. The fact that city officials served the city without pay was another factor that had been broadcast- ed to the word at large by this time and the words of J. S. Mc- Ferren establishing this custom were known from coast to coast. This could have no other than a good effect on the thriving city and home seekers came in good numbers. The end of the year l s 85 found the city grown marvellously in comparison to others of greater age. The First National Bank was incorporated in 1882 by J. S. McFerren, being the outgrowth of the bank established by that pioneer when he had come to Hoopeston as a settler. It was the city's first financial institution. Industries established up to the end of this year — 1^85 — had all prospered and grown to many times the size of their initial start. So great had been the almost miraculous growth of the new town that it was referred to as "the metropolis of the prairie." The period from 1885 until the year 1895. — ten years — saw this growth continued and steady under the administrations of the following mavors: 1885-88, H. L. Bushnell ; 1888-89, A. H. Trego; 1889-90, W. P. Pierce; 1890-91, W. P. Pierce; 1891-1893, W. R- Wilson ; 1893-95, James H. Dyer. Chapter III— 1895-1919 Administration of James H. Dyer — Street Improvements — Fourth Ward is Added to City — J. S. McFerren Heads City Again in 1901 — Whitman Granted Franchise for Establishment of Telephone Exchange in 1902 — Gas Franchise is Granted to Wakeman in 1905 — Crary and Finley Administrations — Mer- ritt and Moore Administrations. In 1895 — under the administration of James H. Dyer the first street improvement in the form of paved streets had bee.i done. In that year Main street was paved from. Second Avenue, to Fourth street ; Market street from Penn street to the L. E. & W. railroad ; Bank street from Penn street to Main street ; Penn street from eighth street west to the city limits; Third street from Main street to Penn street and Second Avenue from Penn street to the L. E. & W. railroad. The paving program put through in that one year was the greatest in the history of the city up to the present date. In 1897-98-99 this was continued with the pav- ing of Market street from McCracken Avenue to the L. E. & W. railroad; Honeywell Avenue from Market street to Seventh street ; Main street from Third Avenue to Second Avenue ; Fourth street from Honeywell Avenue to Lincoln street ; Second Avenue from Penn street south to the city limits; Main street from Fourth to Eighth street and Third street from Penn street to I jncoln street. John L. Hamilton was at the head of the city government as mayor in the year 1900, when a census of the city revealed the necessity of the addition of another ward to the three already in existence in order to furnish proper representation to all people re- siding in the city. This fourth ward was accordingly organized, J. Carson and Otto Johnson being elected as the first aldermen to serve in the city council. William Moore and M. H. Lewis were 13 D. M. ouanKland alderman in the second ward; the first was represented by John Bock and A. L. Shriver, while D. M. Shankland and L. J. Cox served frv>m the third ward. C. E. Smith was city clerk and A. L. Knox, treasurer. William York was the marshal and George Webster, street commissioner. The year 1900 was devoid of street improvement and it was not until 1901, when J. S. McFerren was called upon once more to head the city government that this line of im- provement was resumed. Mayor Mc- Ferren served until April, 1903, and at the end of the latter year the fol- lowing streets had been paved : First Avenue from the L. E. & W. railroad poufh to Washington street; Wash- ington street from First Avenue to Second Avenue; Market street from Penn to Orange street ; Market street from McCracken Avenue to the city limits ; Seminary Avenue from Market street to the east line of Wallace & Catherwood's addition ; Washington street from the C, & E. I. railroad to First Avenue. In the year 1902, J. E. Whitman was granted a franchise by the city council for the establishment of a telephone exchange in the city limits and before the end of the year a new industry that has had much to do with subsequent development of the city was in flourishing condition. James A. Cunningham took over the reigns of the city gov- ernment in April, 1903, and remained the city's chief executive until the year 1905, when he was succeeded by Fred Ayers, who served until 1907. During that period and up until the en 1 of 1907, the following streets were paved; Washington street from the C. & E. I. railroad tracks to Euclid Avenue; Washington street from Second Avenue to McFerren Park ; Lincoln street from I Fourth street to Euclid Avenue; Fourth street from Lincoln s'reet to Orange street; Seventh street from Penn street to Washington street; Young Avenue from Market street to Eighth street; Lincoln street from Fourth street to the C. & E. I. Railroad, In November, 1905, the granting of a franchise to C. J. Wake- man to manufacture and furnish the city with illuminating gas took place, another industrial addition which was to mean much to the city's development. C. S. Crary becamje mayor in April, 1907, serving until April 1909, when H. C. Finley replaced him to serve until April, 1913, No street improvement was done during that six-year period up until the time that I. E. Merritt became mayor in April, 1913. In that year Main street was paved from Third to Sixth Avenue and 14 CHARLES FURNESS DYER City Attorney, Hoopeston, Illinois, 1913-1925 15 the first alley south of Main street from Bank street east to Market street. In 1914 Penn street was paved from a point 100 feet east of Sixth Avenue to the city limits. C. S. Crary H. C. Finley The ascession of I. E. Merritt to the post of Mayor of Hoop- eston was marked by many interesting facts, the period between 1913 and 1918 being remembered as productive of many civic benefits that have had a lasting good effect upon the city. Mayor Merritt was fortunate in his board of aldermen, the men given him by the people of Hoopeston in his two terms being of a calibre that made it possible for the doing of many things for the advance- ment of the city. The board of aldermen was as follows : First ward: Walter C. Hol-ves and John Rubrake, succeeded by Dow Woods ; Second ward : Arthur W. Murray and Arthur H. Campbell, succeeded by Charles W. Warner; Third ward: A. M. Earel and D. M. Shankland; Fourth Ward: H. A. Vines and W. N. Ferguson, succeeded by B. R. Burton. C. E. Mitchell was the city clerk; John O. Klein, treasurer; W. K. Dixon, city marshal and John Cullison, street commissioner. Charles F. Dyer, junior mem- ber of the law firm of Dyer & Dyer, had been chosen city attor- ney, a position he was to hold successively from then to the year 1925. Included among the achievements of Mayor I. E. Merritt's administration was the paving of West Main street ; Sixth avenue ; Orange street, West Penn street, Maple street and of the alley between Main and Penn streets, from Market to Bank street. WILLIAM MOORE Mayor of Hoopeston 1917-19 17 The rest room at McFerren park, which had been given to the «city by J. S. McFerren, was built and the balance paid on the cost of construction of the pavilion at the park. The lagoon at Mc- Ferren park, one of the beauty spots of the pleasure grounds can also be credited to Mayor Merritt and his co-workers, as well as the beautifying of the grounds by the setting out of many trees and shrubs, which people of Hoopeston are today enjoying. Municipal imnrovements included the sinking of two wells at the city pumping station improving and increasing the city's water supply for both domestic and fire protection use. This had been one matter in which the city had been backward up to that time and the two new wells served for many years, before addi- tional improvements were necessary to keep pace with the fast growing city. Construction of a city septic disposal plant is another achieve- ment of the Merritt administrations, deserving of comment, as is the fact that the vault was placed in the city building and later improved. This vault holds the records of Hoopeston since its organization, the minutes of each council since the first, pre- sided over by J. S. McFerren, and other valuable data such as election records, etc., which each year become more valuable. Their protection from fire and other possible loss was the main .incentive for the construction of the vault at the city building, advocated by Mayor Merritt and strongly supported by his co- workers. Another city improvement that was to mark the growth of the city from a "country trading center" into the class of a modern city, was the installation of a lighting system on Main street, giving Hoopeston the start of a white way. Cluster type lights were installed throughout the business section of the city, which were to remain in use until 1925. A new city official, made necessary by conditions that were the result of the growth of the city was authorized during Mayor Merritt's administration, when women of Hoopeston, following a mass meeting, visited the council chamber and asked for the ippointment of a Police Matron to look after the welfare of girls of the city and such other matters as could be completely left in the charge of such an official. The request was granted and a police matron named, which custom has been followed by each succeeding administration to the present day. The next mayor of Hoopeston, 1917 to 1919, was one of the eld pioneers, one of the men to whom Hoopeston in truth owed its existence and who despite this fact had never been called upon to serve in the position of chief executive, although he had, while a member of the council in 1881, displayed qualities of leadership that made him almost an ideal man for the job. William Moore, one of the citizens of Hoopeston who is never forgotten when the men who have done the most for the city are named over, was 18 chosen as the chief executive and became Hoopeston's "war mayor," serving during the troubled times of 1917 to 1919, en- tirely through the world conflict. Just a few days before he was inaugurated, the world was startled with the declaration of war voted by the United States congress and it was his duty to guide Hoopeston through the troubled days of mobilization, when executive tasks were almost doubled due to the demands of the military. How Hoopeston responded to the call for service issued by the President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, is better told in another section of this book, (Hoopeston in the Worid War) , and it is sufficient to say here, that under the able guidance of Mayor William Moore and his council, aided by the patriotic citizens of this section, Hoopeston came through the period of stress with flying colors, making a record that has been equalled by few cities of the same size in the state and that has been ex- celled by none in the nation. World affairs and the drain on the nation's resources brought about by the world war made a policy of rigid economy necessary for the city during the period from 1917 to 1919 and it is perhaps because of this that few improvements of a noteworthy character were made in that time. Certain it is that in leaving the city at the end of 1919 in better financial shape than when he took office and maintaining the city at an "even keel" during the turbu- lent war days, Mayor Moore and his administration achieved a record that is worthy of comment. One outstanding fact, representative of the spirit of Hoopes- ton in 1917-1919 is perhaps worthy of note here. When the World War broke out City Attorney Charles F. Dyer immediately placed himself at the disposal of his country's military forces, was com- missioned and sent overseas. In 1919 with his company still in France, Captain Dyer was elected to the post of City Attorney without opposition, those who were at home feeling it an honor to so reward one of their "fighting sons." t Chapter IV— 1919-19S .^ohn A. Heaton Takes Office for First Term — Fire Department is Motorized — Paving Improvements — Heaton Re-Elected in 1921 and 1923 — The Waterworks Improvement — Gateway is Established for City on West Main Street — Industrial Prog- ress is Noted — D. J. McFerren is Elected Mayor and Takes Office in April 1925. - The six year period from 1919 to 1925 — the three administra- tions of Mayor John A. Heaton, are marked by many things wherein the city of Hoopeston was advanced. Mayor John A. Heaton at the time of his retire- ment from office in April, 1925, had served for six consecutive years, three terms, he being the only mayor of Hoopeston to be accorded that distinction in the over a half century since the founding of the city. Only one other man, Mayor J. S. McFer- ren, was accorded the honor of being elected to the office of chief executive of Hoopeston for more than two terms, and at no time in the many years that he served the city, did Mayor Mc- Ferren serve for more than four years consecutively. Mayor Heaton took office in April, 1919, with the following aldermen — FiiMt ward: J. W. Cox and Walter Holmes ; Second Ward: G. C. Trego and Charles W. Warner: Third Ward: Fred Parks and E. J. Keister; Fourth Ward: C. E. Musson and A. M. Kellar. The first improvement of a civic nature undertaken by the Heaton administration during the first term of office in 1920 came when it was decided to gravel Ex-Mayor John A. Heaton 20 6t cinder all streets in the city that were not paved. This was carried through successfully. In 1920 also came a step forward in the matter of fire protec- tion better than any that had ever been taken previously in the city. After much discussion and the promise of co-operation and support from the city's volunteer fire company it was determined to purchase a fire truck for the city and at least par- tially motorize the fire department. The truck was purchased and is still in use, having proved its value at many times in the past five years by the amount of possible loss from fires it has prevented. Advocated for many months by Chester A. Aldrich r editor of The Chronicle-Herald, as well as by all citizens of the city who had made the matter of fire protection a subject for study, the decision to purchase the truck was hailed as a great step forward by the majority of residents. The paving of Fifth street and Seventh street were also undertaken in the year 1920 and carried to a successful conclusion by the Heaton administration and this was followed in 1921 by the resurfacing of Honeywell Avenue and Washington street. The city's revenue for the purpose of maintenance of streets and repairing paved streets within the city was greatly increased during the year 1921, when advocated by Mayor Heaton and a majority of the council, the wheel tax ordinance was passed. This wheel tax ordinance places a small tax on vehicles of every descrip- tion that use the city streets and from the first year that it was placed in effect proved its usefulness to the city in making it possible to repair and maintain streets. In 1922 the paving of West Main street was completed by the Heaton administration and it was during this year that an im- provement was first proposed that was later to be consummated by Mayor Heaton and his co-workers and that perhaps will stand for many years as the most outstanding improvement of the en- tire six years. This was the providing of a more adequate water supply for domestic use and for fire protection to the city. When the matter was first brought before the council a committee was appointed and it was determined that engineers would be employ- ed to investigate the entire problem in Hoopeston and work out a plan whereby the matter could be most efficiently and econom- ically solved. The firm of Pearse, Greeley & Hanson, of Chicago, were employed to do this work and made an exhaustive investiga- tion. Eight months of time were consumed before the report of the engineers was made to the council and they had been satisfied on all points after which it was decided to go ahead with the im- provement. C. E. Musson, alderman from the fourth ward, chair- man of the fire and water committee of the council is another who is deserving of much of the credit for this improvement. Alderman Musson was tireless in his efforts to bring about a 21 desire for the improvement and later to work out adequate and complete plans for it. It was not until 1923 that actual work was started at the waterworks resulting in the sinking of an extra well, erection of a new reservoir and the maintaining of both pressure pumps at the institution in such condition that either can be used at any time to carry the load of ordinary usage while the other is free to supply water for an emergency such as a big fire. One other improvement came in the year 1923 that can be placed partly to the credit of the city administration although the major portion of the credit perhaps belongs to the Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored and actually carried through the work. This was the placing of ornamental gates at the junction of the Dixie Highway and West Main street, that tell travelers- by, on the great main artery of travel, that just beyond lies Hoopeston, "the best 6,000 city in Illinois." The gateway does not bear those words, but there are few places in the land where the little Illinois city is not known today, and wherever it is known, that fact has been woven into the legend of its existence in the mind of the stranger. Hoopeston during the six years of the Heaton administration experienced one of the greatest industrial booms of its entire fifty year existence. Not in the matter of new enterprises estab- lishing themselves here, but in solid and substantial growth of those already here. The taking over of the Sprague Canning Ma- chinery Company, by the Sprague-Sells Corporation was perhaps the start of this growth or at least its greatest contributing fac- tor. Immense additions to the factory of The American Can Com- pany on West Main street, completed in 1925, make this plant of the great corporation the largest in the point of floor space, in the United States. The Illinois Canning Company, with the building of new barns in 1925, and the making of many other extensive improve- ments to their buildings increasing their floor space and general capacity is another improvement worthy of note at this time. It has been computed that the industrial wealth and capacity of the city almost doubled in the six years from 1919 to 1925, a fact that not only is worthy of recording for the past, but that augurs a bright prospect for the future. Such was the condition of the city in 1925, when the first cycle in the history of Hoopeston was completed by the ascession of the second generation to posts of power and responsibility. In 1922 had occurred the death of J. S. McFerren, guardian angel of Hoopeston. His sons, William McFerren and Donald J. McFerren took up the work of building for Hoopeston where he had left off. William McFerren was named the president of the First National Bank, following in the footsteps of his father in the banking business. 22 D. J. MeFerren, Mayor of Hoopeston 23 Walter Holmes L. D. Wood In 1925, Donald J. McFerren fulfilled the hopes of those who had ever been the friends and followers of his father, when he became a candidate for mayor and was elected without opposition to the office so mjany times filled efficiently and wisely by his father. This completed the cycle from generation to generation in Hoopeston and marks a fitting place for the chronicling of the events of the city that in a little over fifty years has grown from the open spaces of the prairie to a thriving beehive of in- dustry. Members of the present city council are : first ward, Walter Holmes and L. D. Woods; second ward, Chas. Hughes and J. A. Harlan; third ward, Fred Parks and Fred Swisher; fourth ward, Frank Gardner and CM. Ray. City officers for 1925-26 are: Chief of Police C. 0. Musson; Night Policemen, Arthur J. Nichols and Monr. Pickrell. City Attorney, G. H. Couchman ; City Matron, Mrs. Eliza Mann; Cemetery Superintendent, Roy Smith; Water Collector, William Sharon; Health Officer, Dr. A. J. Clay. Mayor Donald J. McFerren took the oath of office as Mayor of Hoopeston on May 4, 1925. As Mayor John A. Heaton turned over the duties of his office to the new mayor, Donald J. Mc- Ferren, Alderman J. A. Harlan, on behalf of the old council, many of whom had served the entire six years with Mayor Heaton, pre- sented him with a beautiful token in the shape of a fountain pen with the following words: "You have been our Mayor for six long years. One other ha 3 served as long as you at various times in the past, but you hav^ the distinction of being the only Mayor to serve us three consec- utive times. You are about to lay down the gavel and to vacate the seat of Mayor. We are sorry to see you go for you have been a good Mayor. You have always had the interests of the city at heart. You have labored conscientiously and well, you have been prompt and always done what seemed best at the time. You have been careful in your appointments and always strived to have harmony among the council. Such efforts cannot help but bring good results. It will be useless for me to enumerate the accom- plishments of your administration ; we all know what they are. As I said before we are sorry to see you go but such is the order of things. On behalf of the old council I wish to present you with a small token. Do not prize it for its intrinsic value, for that 24 " is like your salary, but cherish it and accept it in the spirit in which it is given and when the years roll by and our fair city has grown to be a metropolis, you can well and truthfully say, "I built better than I knew." Presiding over the council for the first time in his capacity as mayor, D. J. McFerren made the following talk, which is in this form pre- served to the history of Hoop- eston, as was that other of his father when he assumed of- fice as the first mayor of Hoopeston: Gentlemen of the Council: Realizing the honor be- stowed upon me by the people of Hoopeston I consider this to be the most "opportune mo- ment to express my apprecia- tion and to assure you how deeply I feel the responsibili- ties of my appointment. My father, as you all know, was many times Mayor and knowing how loyal and sin- cere was his interest in the w r elfare and development of the city I shall strive to do all in my power, to continue with the improvements and good management which were started by him and have been so successfully carried on by his success- ors. I take up the duties of this office free from all alliances and without any promises made before my election. Having always lived in Hoopeston I think that I am quite familiar with the conditions and requirements in the adminis- tration of our city's affairs. By this I do not mean that at the present moment I already know all the questions which will arise during my term in office nor do I know how they are to be solved, but I feel confident that with the co-operation and assistance of the council I shall be able to deal with and deci'de these matters to the satisfaction and benefit of the city. I have no set plan of work or any one thing in mind to pre- sent to you as I feel that the needs of the city and the policy of any action should be considered and planned with the council which represents the popular sentiments and feelings of all the citizens of Hoopeston. I might, however, in this connection recommend the following: Dr. A. J. Clay City Health Officer City Attorney of Hoopeston, 1925. Graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University with degree of LLB., Five Years Secretary to Justice William M. Farmer, of the Illinois Supreme Court, 1913 to 1918. Senior member of the law firm of Couchman & Couchman, Fifth Floor, Willdon Building, Hoopes- ton, Illinois. UNIVERSE * ' 25 First: That all property owners, whether residential or business, be #iven adequate fire protection. Second: That all parts of our city be furnished or provided -with proper drainage. Third : That our many miles of paved streets be maintained m good condition. Fourth: That the city ordinances be strictly enforced. * .^?^ th: That the duties of the appointees be performed faithfully and efficiently.. No city can stand still, it must either move forward or back- ward. For the next two years the course of the city is largely in the hands of our council. Let ns hope that by friendly eo-opera- tion, good administration and reasonable taxation that course will be unanimously proclaimed as a step onward towards a still anore prosperous and flourishing city. Political Subdivisions The city of Hoopeston is divided into four wards as follows: FIRST WARD— All that part of territory of said city lyino- *outh of the center line of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad* and vest of the center line of the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad )e and is the same hereby declared to be the first ward* I SECOND WARI>— All that part of territory of said cit* ymg south of the center line of the Lake Erie and Western rail- road and the center line of Fifth street is the Second Ward. ™ IR P WARD--A11 that P art of territory of said city lying orth of the center line of the Lake Erie and Western Railroad nd west of the center line of Fifth street is declared to be th* urd ward, F, F P™ TH WARD— All that part or territory of said city lying st of the center line of Fifth street is declared to be the Fourth ard, Hoopeston in the World War General Review — Organization of Company B, 129th Infantry as Unit of Illinois National Guard — Changes in Officers — Service on the Mexican Border — Start of World War — Sent Overseas to France — French Battlefields — The Honor Roll — Home Ac- tivities—The Community War Chest— The Red Cross— The Draft Board. Few citizens of Hoopeston can look back upon the period from April, 1917, to November 11, 1918, without a thrill of pride, a tight- ing of the heart at the memory of anxious days, when each night the casualty list was scanned, when each day brought its fresh horror in the names of those listed as "dead," "seriously wounded," "missing," etc. Hoopeston's part in the world war was played with no less patriotism and devotion than that accorded by anv other city in the nation of its size. Hoopeston gave freely of her sons for Military service and those who were forced to stay at home for many and varied causes, did their "bit" by throwing themselves heart and soul into the vast tasks that were demand- ed of them, that the army at the front might live and remain in condition for their difficult task. The first phase of Hoopeston in the world war rightly belongs to the military angle. To the men who gave up their homes and everything they held dear to travel thousands of miles across seas to fight a treacherous foe on a foreign soil. And the history of military operations, insofar as Hoopeston is concerned, starts properly with the chronicling of events in the organization known as Company B, 129th Infantry, the national guard unit, which was composed largely of Hoopeston boys and which was ordered into service from this city. Twelve years ago in June, 1919, Company B, Hoopeston's crack military organization, came into existence. Its formation was due to the efforts of Earl C. Thornton, now Major E. C. Thorn- ton, who was elevated to the command of the third battalion, 129th Infantry, and a number of other patriotic young men of 29 Hoopeston, who conceived the idea of organizing a unit of the Illinois' National guard in this city. Major Thornton's previous military experience naturally made him a leader in the movement to organize a branch of the state militia in Hoopeston, he being at that time, the year 1907, a top sergeant in Battery A., of Danville, Major Thornton had been identified with Battery A., almost from the date of its organization and served with the Danville battery in the Spanish American war, participating in the Porto Rican campaign. No great diffculty was experienced in interesting a large number of Hoopeston young men in the embryo company, and with the assistance of John N. Allen and Walter Trego, within a very short time sixty-five members had been secured, and in due time the company was inducted into the Illinois National guard, becoming a unit of the Third Regiment. The first officers elected resulted in Major Thornton being chosen captain; John N. Allen, first lieutenant and Walter Trego, second lieutenant. Headquarters for the company were obtained, the entire second floor of what was then known as the Armory building on South Market Street, being utilized as quarters. Weekly drills were held. Under the instruction of Captain Thornton, the company was quickly rounded into a first-class military organization passing inspection with flying colors. Two years following its organization Company B was called upon to perform actual military duty. In August, 1909, Spring- field, the state capital, became the scene of one of the most serious race riots in the history of Illinois. A murder committed by a negro was followed by an outbreak of rioting, which re- sulted in a great portion of the negro residential section of the capital city being destroyed by fires. Mob rule prevailed and it became necessary for Governor Charles S. Deneen to call upon the national guard to restore order. Hoopeston's company was among the national guard units sumjmoned and the local boys promptly responded. The company spent one week in the state capital, doing patrol duty, at the end of which time mob violence having been quelled and order restored, the Hoopeston boys re- turned home, having acquitted themselves creditably in their first active duty. Shortly after the organization of the company, the boys had their first experience in a state camp, going to Camp Lincoln, Springfield, where they remained one week. In the succeeding >ears, these yearly encampments were eagerly looked forward to, as a desirable outing and their visit to similar events at Dixon, Elgin, and elsewhere, resulted in putting finishing touches to their military training. Very few changes were made in the roster of officers of the company, throughout its more than twelve years of existence. Major Thornton, the first captain, passed the necessary examina- 30 tion and received his commission, remaining in command of Com- pany B until shortly after its return from the Mexican border, on February 21, 1921. While at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, awaiting the mustering of the company out of the United States service, he was promoted to major of the Third Battalion of the Third Regiment* upon the resignation of Major E. E. Leonard, of Rock- lord. First Lieutenant John N. Allen and Second Lieutenant Wal- ler Trego, who were elected for the first three years of the exist- ence of Company B resigned at the end of this period of service and they were succeeded by C. E. W f ellman, First Lieutenant, and John H. Steward, second lieutenant. Both passed examinations satisfactorily and received their corn-missions but Lieut. Wellman resigned in 1911 and went to Danville, being succeeded as first lieutenant by John H. Steward, while Leroy Songer was elected second lieutenant. Both of these officers retained their positions until after the return of Company B from the Mexican border, when by reason of the promotion of Lieut. Steward to become captain, succeeding Captain Thornton, who as previously mention- ed had gone up to the rank of major, and the resignation of Sec- ond Lieutenant Roy Songer, Mitchell S. Cash was elected first lieu- tenant and Lloyd P. Petry was chosen second lieutenant. During the most of the period of its existence, Company B had an up and down career and there were times when lack of interest in the organization almost resulted in its disbandment. Only the enthusiasm of Captain Thornton and Messrs. Steward, Songer and others, in whose veins flowed the red blood of patrio- tism, kept the organization intact. These men never waned in their enthusiasm and when enlistments expired the company rolls drop- ped as low at times to only number 40 or more odd men, they re- tained their courage and put forth even greater efforts to arouse interest in the part of young men and induced them to enlist. It was a tough task, owing to the disinclination of the youth of Hoopeston to indulge in the dull routine of weekly drills and dry military procedure. Early in the year 1916, however, when the situation on the Mexican border assumed a serious aspect and rumors of im- pending hostilities spread throughout the land, increased interest was manifested in the ranks of Hoopeston young men. Patriotism became rampant on June 19, 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson issued his famous call, summoning the entire national guard into the military service for duty on the Mexican border, orders coming the following morning to mobilize Company B and hold the members in service to proceed momentarily to the mo- bilization camp. Five days later Company B entrained for Camp Dunne, Spring-field, where other units of the Third Regiment had been mobilized. Prior to departure for the Mexican border, final medical inspection was given at Camp Dunn and to Company 3i CAPTAIN JOHN H. STEWARD 32 B went an honor unequalled by any other national guard company of Illinois — namely, not a single memiber was rejected on ac- count of physical disability. Eight months was spent by Company B, within less than 200 miles from the Mexican border, where under ntrict military reg- ulation they were made fit for the rigors of a long campaign, but the desire of the men to tackle the Mexicans was never realized. The display of force on the part of Uncle Sam put a damper on the arrogance of the Carranza government and cooled their ardor to provoke the United States to war. After matters had become quiet and all dangers of an armed clash had subsided, national guard troops were gradually with- drawn and on February 21, 1917, Company B was transferred to Fort Sheridan, Illinois, where it was forrrally mustered out of the service and arriving horr>e shortly thereafter, was wide- ly acclaimed by the people of Hoopeston, who had in the meantime become more appreciative of their military organization. At the time they returned from border service, the dark clouds of the coming conflict with Germany were hovering over the country. Just as eagerly, however, they responded to the summons to the colors, when on July 25, 1917, a little over a year after Company B was summoned for border service, Presi- dent Wilson again ordered mobilization of the national guard of the United States and once more the armory became a scene of activity, as preparations were made for the long journey ahead, which was to end in Company B facing the enemy of civiliza- tion on the western front in France. Although Company B was ordered mobilized on July 25, 1917, it was not until six weeks later that the local military organiza- tion entrained for Camp Logan, Texas, and in the meantime, as a result of the wave of patriotism spreading over the nation, scores of young men from Hoopeston and surrounding country flocked to the colors, joining the local company and accompanying the organization to Camp Logan, where it arrived on September 13, to undergo a long period of intensive training, to fit itself for the serious work of crushing the hun. Shortly after arrival at the training camp, members of the company lost their beloved commander, Captain John H. Steward, who was transferred to command of Company D, while Captain Burgehein took over the command of the Hoopeston Company. Eight months were spent at Camp Logan, where the troops were trained in every art of modern warfare. On May 2, Company B broke camp and word quickly spread that the troops were at laot going overseas. The company en- trained on this date and were soon enroute to the Atlantic sea- board. Following the arrival of Company B on the Atlantic coast, the boys stopped for a short time at Cornwall, New York, close 33 First Lieutenant Mitchell S. Cash 34 to West Point military academy. Shortly afterward the companv journeyed down the Hudson River to Long Island and thence to* Camp Upton. The barracks here were destined to be their last home in America for an unknown period, for shortly afterward final clothing was distributed and every indication pointed to an early departure overseas. It was on the night of May 10, 1918, that orders came to go aboard transport. In the middle of the night, Company B, with other units of the thirty-third division, silently went aboard trains and ferries, which carried them to the docks at Hoboken. At the latter place the Hoopeston Company boarded the Transport Cov- ington, a seized German merchant ship, formerly named the Cin- cinnati. At three o'clock on the morning of May 11, the Coving- ton weighed anchor and started on its perilous voyage over the submarine infested seas, enroute to France. Strong convoys es- corted the transports loaded with their precious human freight. The journey "over there" was entirely without incident. Company B arrived at Brest, France, on May 24, 1918. Upon disembarkation Company B proceeded to Pontantezon barracks, one time headquarters of the great Napoleon and locat- ed three kilometers from Brest. The soldiers were placed under rigid quarantine and remained there 27 days. Following their long stay at this camp, orders came to move and French trains carried them a tiresome journey of two days and three nights to a British sector, where they were for the first time within hearing of the big guns, located not far from Hamel, where on July 4, an Illinois unit, in conjunction with the Austral- lians, experienced its first baptism of fire, thrilling America with their daring capture of Hamel and routing the enemy. It was during this battle that Company B, with the 129th Infantry remained in support, ready to enter the battle if called upon. Several weeks were spent in this sector where their training was continued by British instructors and about the middle of July they proceeded to the Amiens sector, directly behind the Australians, when different detachments were sent into the front lines and given their first taste of actual warfare. On August first Company B was pronounced fit and capable of meeting the nun on equal terms and on that day the company was trans- ferred to the Albert sector, where it remained until the latter part of the month, taking its turn in the trenches and sending back to the "heinies," as good as they sent. It was here that they sustained their first casualty, Corporal Harry Sartwell sustaining a shrapnel wound in the neck that later resulted in him being in- valided home. Following their "bit" on the Albert front, Com- pany B journeyed by rail to the Toul sector, remaining there for 26 days. Things were a bit more exciting on this front, frequem; '35 Lteut. Lloyd P. Petrj 36 brushes being had with the enemy, sometimes on a small scale and again quite better. It was on September 26, the day the great Meuse-Argonne battle opened, that Company B engaged in its greatest combat with the enemy. The Hoopeston boys were among the thousands that started to mop up the great forest, marking some of the Sergeant Earl R. Deck Company B, 129th U. S. Infantry lie it est fighting of the war. Open warfare succeeded trench fighting of the war. Open warfare succeeded trench fighting and with only stumps of trees to protect themselves, and resist the enemy's terrific counter attacks, the gallant men from Hoop- eston with their comrades, inch by inch forced the enemy back. UNIVERSITY 01 ILLINOIS AM v: " •■•—r"r (umpan; I!, l.'dth Infantry, I. N. V., 37 Day and night the battle raged, the enemy using a storm of shells and impregnating the thickly wooded country with clouds of poi- son gas. It was during the heighth of this great battle they sustain- ed their first major casualties, Sergeant Fred A. Kennedy, who gave up his job with the Lake Erie & Western railroad at Rankin and whose parents live in Cincinnati, Ohio, made the supreme sacrifice. Albert Kallinski, of Hoopeston, a former employe of the Vermilion Malleable Iron Works, was also killed, together with Lawrence, a drafted soldier, who had been assigned to Company B.. Sergeant Earl R. Deck received a shrapnel wound in his right leg, which later caused the amputa- tion of the limb. Company B, alone with other companies of the 129th Infan- try, was subjected during this battle to the worst gas attack that had been launched by the Germans during the whole war, result- ing in almost completely putting them out of action. Scores of men were sent to the hospital, anions them being Captain Steward and Lieutenant Lloyd P. Petry. The few men who did not suc- cumb to the gas attack, continued to hold their lines until re- lieved by battallion reserves, Company B being sent back to rest camp, the first they had experienced almost from the day they landed in France. Remaining in reserve until October 8, Company B was rush- ed to Boise Du Chaume, where the 129th regiment took part in drivine the nun across the Meuse river, and following the enemy over this bloody stretch, they attacked the Kaiser's strong shock troops and started them on the run for Berlin. From October 5, until the night of October 21, Company B, along with the rest of the brigade held the right half of the thirty-third division sector, east of the Meuse, with the sixty-sixth brigade on their left, or on the west bank of the Meuse river. They were finally relieved there by the fifteenth French Colony division. After their relief from this sector, Company B was trans- ferred to the St. Mihiel front, where the thirty-third division re- lieved the 79th division, being in close approximation to Metz, which was the goal of the American forces at this period of the war. Things became lively again and freouent raids and patrol encounters occurred, in which the boys of Company B participat- ed. They were also subjected to heavy and continuous enemy shell fire. : On November 11, the sixty-fifth brigade, headed by the 129th infantry, of which Company B was the second company, attacked and captured Chateau Aullnois Riaville, Marcheville and several other small French towns quickly fell. At this moment the word was flashed around the w r orld that the armistice had been signed and the order came to cease hostilities. The w r ar came to an end, 38 just as the Illinois boys were on the verge of smashing the Hin- denburg line at this point. After which Metz would have been their destination. Upon the cessation of hostilities, Company B was billetted for some days in various French towns. Later the thirty- third division was honored by being selected as a part of the army of occupation in support, and Company B with other units marched across beautiful Alsace-Lorraine to Luxembourg, covering the 123-mile journey in ten days. Their winter stay in Luxembourg will never be forgotten by the returning soldier boys, for the hospitality of the French COL. G. H. GREENE AND STAFF. Eighth from left is Lieutenant Frederick K. Boudinard, formerly a private in Com- pany B, who was transferred to headquarters Company April 18, 1918, at Camp Logan, Texas. was unbounded and the restrictions imposed upon them were not -o severe as prevailed with that part of the American army that occupied the west bank of the Rhine, in Germany. Upon sailing for home, Company B embarked at Brest, the port where the boys first set foot in France and arrived in Hoopeston on June 7, 1919. 39 The story of Company B covers the greater portion of the boys who saw active service in France and in the army during the world war, although there were many others, who volunteer- ed, or who were inducted into the service and who were during the entire period of the war, in other organizations. The record of these men's service is perhaps best covered in the following "Honor Roll" which carries the names of mem bers of Company B, as well as those who served in other organ- izations, as follows: Harold C. Adsit, Harvey Dyer Adkins, Monroe Adkins. Arthur L. Ambler, Phillip And- erson, John Herbert Arnold, Roy Artist, Charles Albert Bailey, Roy Barnes, Clyde Barnet, Vir- gil Bass, J. W. Y. Beatty, Homer H. Beall, William Bear, Bruce Bennett, Jesse Bennet, Gifford Berg, George D. Betka, Walter Birge, Leslie B. Bishop Au- brey B. Bloomfield, Curtis Love Boardman, VINCENT R. BOARDMAN, Victor Bolinski, John Rosslyn Boorde, Frederick K. Boudinard, Sidney H. Bradd, Lieut. Alba Cromer Ford Bradley, Ralph Bradley, Clarence Polo Bray, Dale Brougher, Charles Milton Bruff , jr., Thomas Brown, Fred Buch- ler, jr., George L. Burtis, Harry D. Burtis, Coy H. Burton, Charles F. Bushnell, Frank A. Butts, Charles H. Byrd, Lester Campbell, Mitchell T. Cash, Frank Cassady, Floyd Monroe, Cheney, Leon R. Chenoweth, Myrle Milton Clements, Alvin F. K. Boudinard 40 Cobb. John E. Colbert, James L. Cole, Oscar Cole, William Henry Cole. Floyd W. Coleman, John Jacob Collins, Mark Collins, Ray Collins. Reed G. Cook, Ralph Coon, Elijah A. Cooper, Harry Cooper, David Edward Copas, Henry F. Cosgrove, John L. Cos- erove, Clarence E. Crane, A..C. H. Cromer, A. J. Dallstream, Guy Dalhtream, L. P. Daniel, Fred Davis, Roy Davidson, Earl R. Deck, Letter R. Deck, Albert Deck, Todd Decker, Clifford Otto Denton, Wylie E. Dorsett, Irbie Downey, Morris Downey, Loren A, Dukes, Leonard Esco Duncan, Charles Fumess Dyer, Lucien B. Dyer, Dr. Fred E. Earel, Fred W. Ellerman, Frank Ellis, Virgil Leroy Engle, John Wiley Ernest, Walter R. Ernest, Lieut. A. J. Dallstream L. H. Deck Enos Leo Erwin, Glenn Faurote, Carter Farrell, Garrett Hobart Finch, McKinley Finch, Russell Carl vie Finlev, Frank E. Fish, Orvia W. Fish, Earl J. Fisher. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Charles S. Flexman, Claude Forshier, Mor- ris R. Foster, Monta French, Frank J. Fundle, Joshua W. Gal- loway, Roy Gannon, Henry M. Garrett, Christ V. George, Charles D. Gilman. Hugh Doug- las Oilman, Charles Gordon Glover, Roy E. Goin, Floyd Goin, - Dewey Gossett, Fred Grant Green, Glenn B. Green, William Stanley Green, Alec M. Griffin, John James Griffin, Garrett H. Griggs, Ward E. Guest, Russeii Hall, Basil Halsell, William Ham- ilton, George Edwin Harbert, Benjamin Albert Harding, Clar- ence Eugene Harding, Nathaniel S. G. Harding, Earl Harkness, 41 Capt. C, F. Dyer KREAGER, Orla Kreager, Janies Ernest Krell, Harvey La- Bounty, Lawrence L. Lane, Ray- mond Leeper, TADE LAYDEN, JR., Edward R. Larrabee, Mar- tin Lawson, Joe Levinski, Wil- liam Levinski, Harold Lewis, Orpheus Lewis, Knoesel Lock- hart, David W. Long, George A. Long, Earl Longfellow, Elmer C. Longfellow, Robert V. Long- fellow, Robert J. Love, Amp Lovelace, William H. Lucas, Claire Evans Lyon, Ralph M. Lyons, Harold Madden, Carl E. Madden, Leo Marquis, Frank Martin, George Martin, Will F. Martin, Dr. Robert S. Mc- Caughey, Thurman McLain, Clellon L. McDonald, Donald J. McFerren, William McFerren, John E. Harkrider, John P. Haw- kins, LEWIS T. HAWKINS, Wil- liam D. Hawkins, Kale Hazany, Dr. John B. Hazel, jr., Blaine N. Heaton, Benjamin H. Hicks, Charles D. Hinkle, Charles L. Hobsan, Clyde C. Halloway, John H. Hoover, Lemmie H. Hoover, Fremont Hoskins, Ralph Hough- ton, John J. Huling, jr., Ernest Hutson, Frank R. James, Wil- liam A. James, William H. Jerna- gan, Franklin R. Johnson, Glenn 0. Johnson, Harry Parker Jones, Earl Justice, Leo B. Karn, Har- old C. Keister, Leroy Merle Keis- ter, Orville E. Keplinger, Joseph B. Kerr, George D. Kimberlin, I^aac Kinneer, Harry A. Kivell, C. Berne Knell, B. Boyd Knell, William Leonard Kolb, ALBERT KALINSKI, IRA OWEN Capt. L. B. Dyer 42 Bertrand F. McKinney, Earl R. Means, Edward D. Means, John W. Meloy, Bernard J. Mertens, Charles Daniel Miller, Clarence S. Miller, Franklin Miller, Rev. J. W. Miller, Sam Miller, Herman Mitchell, Leslie Moore, Frank B. Morgan, Charles G. Morrison, John W. Murphy, Lewis A. Mur- ray, Louie Murray, William A. Lieut. Harry R, Kivell Musk, Ralph W. Musson, Reed F. Musson, Hilbert Neathery, Jeane E. Newburn, Harold J. Newburn, Charles Nicholas, Wal- ter R. Noble, Earl W. Nussear, Harold M, Olehy, Eddie L. Oliver, Ozro Oliver, Omar Parks, Samuel F. Pedigo, Edwin Pen- ney, Athanasios C. Pergakes, Dennis M. Perkins, M. 0. Peter- son, Raymond S. Peterson, Lieut. Joseph B, Kerr Louis J. Willett 43 George S. Petry, Lloyd P. Petry, Ezra T. Piercy, Floyd Merle Powley, Victor Ree Preston, El- mer M. Probasco, George H. Probasco, George H. Raasch, Herschel Ray Ransom, Robert R. Remster, Ivan L. ReVeal, Cassie Rice, Forrest Riggs, Leonard D. Roark, James H. Robertson, Walter C. Robertson, Lee C. Ro- binson, Clarence A. Roe, Joseph J. Rote, Elmer E. Rush, Eugene Ru;k, Wayne Rusk, Floyd W. Russell, Peter Ryomolski, Ber- nard Samuels, Clarence Sapping- ton, Floyd Sargent, George Sar- gent, Harry Sartwell, Elwood Scarlet, Martone E. Scarlet, Wil- liam S. Schade, Leon E. Sharon, William S. Sharon, Forest Shinn. Michael Said, William Franklin Sills, Aubrey Reed Silver, Leon Lieut. Claude Forshier (Blakely) Silver, Ira Simmons, Park T. Timmons, Edward Smith, Elmer Smith, John N. Smith, Paul Smith, Thomas P. Smith, Glenn J. Smythe, Frank P. Snider, Gilbert M. Southwick, Amos Spears, Thomas Spears, Russell Spickard, Vernon A. Spickard, John H. Steward, Ray Stewart, RALPH W. STINE, Charles S. Stokes, Knight G. Stone, Harry T. Sunderland, Grant Swafford, Paul C. Swan- son, Fred D. Swisher, Tony Tarasewich, Charles Earl Tay- lor, Clarence Taylor, Herbert Cecil Taylor, Dwight H. Thomas, Clyde Thompson, Charles Thompson, Luttrell Thompson, Earl C. Thornton, Harry M. Thornton, Ted Thornton, James Lieut. Clarence S. Miller 44 Frederick Tilton, Ralph G. Til- ton, Lester W. Townsend, Clyde Troxel, Walter Trumble, Frank A. Tayler, Everett Van Dorn, Ray Van Dorn Emery Vaughn, Charles Wagner, Fred R. Wake- land, Guy E. Wakeland, Balsley Walker, Arthur Leslie Walker, Ernest P. Walker, Bert E. Wal- lace, Lawrence Wyer, Richard M. York, George Kenneth York, William F. Wallace, Arthur W. Waugh, Roy Waugh, Dr. A. C. Weaver, Daniel Weaver, Mac C. Weaver, Ralph Steven Webber, Walter Henry Webber, Floyd Westfall, Charles M. Whaite, Clifford Harold Whittaker, Robert C. Whittaker, William Henry Whittington, Lewis Glenn Willis, Doan Silver Williams, Leland T. Williams, Lewis. C Williams, Welby Williams, John Wilson, Read Wintersteen, Vic- tor Wilson, Glenn W. Woods, George Wintermantel, Martin Wintermantel, Glenn Wood, Wil- liam Henry Woodward, James A. Woodhouse, Louis J. Willett and Maxwell Zook. (In the above honor roll, those names set in capital letters are those who made the suprerqe sacrifice for their country, being killed in France or dying while in the service of their country.) The following nurses volunteered for service in the great war. the first two named serving with the Red Cross in France : Miss Kate Wintermantel, Miss Nellie Ross, Miss Frances Bradley. E. C. Thornton 45 HOME ACTIVITIES Services Performed by Selective Service and Exemption Board Dr. L. B. Russell, Frank Creighton and John B. Wallbridge were appointed by the President of the United States as members of the Local Board for Division No. 1, County of Vermilion, State of Illinois, with headquarters in Hoopeston, Illinois, and this board organized June 30, 1917, by electing Frank Creighton, chairman, John B. Wallbridge, secretary, and Dr. L. B. Russell as physician of the board. Division No. 1 consisted of ten townships, viz : Grant, Butler, Middlefork, Ross, Pilot, Blount, Newell, Oakwood, Vance and Jamaica. Owing to the size of the district the residence of some of the registrants was about fifty miles from the board office. The total number of registrants was 5,476. Out of this number the board classified about 5,000 and inducted into service 633 men, and in addition to this there were, 175 voluntary enlist- ments. The board physically examined 1,261 men. Out of this number that was sent to camp, 44 were rejected on second exam- ination. The hours of the members of the board were all hours First Lieutenant Ralph W. Stine, who gave up his life early in the great Verdun Battle was the only member of Company B to be honored with the dis- tinguished service cross, the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government for bravery in action. This insignia granted posthumously is now the proud possession of his par- ents who live in Paxton, Illinois. He met death while engaged in wiping out machine gun nests on September 26, 1918, in the Verdun sector. He was former- ly a principal of the Hoopeston High school and enlisted in Com- pany B won his commission at training school and just prior to the departure of Company B for overseas service was transferred to Company L, 132nd U. S. In- fantry. 46 of the day and night, for much of the time from the date they entered the service until the armistice was signed, in fact for some time thereafter, they put in about 14 hours a day on the average. While there were no duties to perform after the armis- tice nevertheless they were not demobilized for many months. The board was greatly assisted by the volunteer help of many patriotic men and women of Hoopeston. By their aid the board members were enabled to do the work required of them promptly. The members of the board were told immediately after enter- ing the service that they could not resign. Death was the only ex- cuse for not serving and but for good cause shown the government might send them to Fort Leavenworth penitentiary. This board during its administration played no favorites. The registrant's religious faith or political affiliation, or whether they were rich or poor, standing in society made no difference with the board. The board found some registrants were extremely anxious to go to war while others were just the reverse and did every- thing in their power to secure exemption. However, almost every registrant when finally called to the colors came cheerfully and vent forward with all determination to do his full duty. RED CROSS ACTIVITIES In February, 1917, the Hoopeston chapter of the American Red Cross was organized. After the membership dues had been paid the next call for rqoney was for $3,200. This was responded to liberally and $4,200 was raised. From that time on there were many calls and much money expended but every demand was met with an oversubscription. The membership at the end of the war numbered around 2,000. The second floor of the Commercial Club building was used as a workroom together with the base- ment of the library building and here they made and shipped 319 sweaters, 206 helmets, 1,322 sox, 16 scarfs, 252 wristlets, 654 refugee garments, 1,313 hospital garments, 40 vests, 159 kits, 50 waterproof bags and many other useful articles. Besides this there were collected and shipped, 4,000 pounds of used clothing to the unfortunates in the war zone of Europe. The 1917 drive for Red Cross membership netted a total of 1,287 members and the 1918 drive gathered in 1,325 members. The membership fee was $1 and some paid $2. During the influenza epidemic many cases were attended individually by the Red Cross until the officials say a temporary hospital must be established which was opened on the second floor of the Commercial Club building. Many cases were cared for at this place and many persons owe their lives to this institu- tion. A number of women and some men were devoted to the work, giving their entire time free to help their unfortunate 47 brothers and sisters. The expenses were borne entirely by the Red Cross. During the harvest time of 1918 when the farmers were unable to get help to take care of their grain, between 75 and 100 men went voluntarily to the fields each evening for over a week and shocked oats for two hours or more. The farmers generally made a liberal donation to the Red Cross for this work. In the fall of 1918 a Grant Township Red Cross day was held, netting $4,196.35, in which all citizens took part. The country people brought in many articles of produce together with some livestock which with the donations of the townspeople were auctioned off for the benefit of the organization. In summing up the activities of the Grant Township Red Cross we must say it has done exceptionally good work, always going "over the top" in everything. COMMUNITY WAR CHEST It only required two drives, one for the Red Cross and one for the Y. M. C. A. to demonstrate that Grant Township should devise some better method for raising the amount of money that would be required to meet the many demands that the authorized war activities would call for. With this in mind there was a com- mittee appointed to carefully go over the resources of Grant Township and also make a careful estimate of about what demand would be made on the township for a year. After this had been done and the committee was satisfied with their work they start- ed a campaign of instruction. This was early in March, 1917. The drive was then put on for the necessary amount of funds ask- ing the contributors to make their pledges for from March 1, 1917 until March 1, 1918. This was successful as the people responded nobly with few exceptions. Everybody wanted to do their part to help bring the world war to a close. The amount of subscriptions secured and collected through this organization was $24,199.56, plus $4,- 096.35, receipts from carnival day, making a total of $28,295.91. This enabled Grant Township to meet every demand of authoriz- ed war needs that was made and with 100 per cent the war com- ing to a close made it possible for the discontinuance of the collec- tion of these funds after January 1, 1919. Therefore the pledges that were made for one year were only asked to pay ten months. Those who had paid for the full year in advance were refunded two months. The officers of the Grant Township War Workers Associa- tion were: E. J. Boorde, chairman; I. E. Merritt, Vice Chairman; George E. Evans, secretary and treasurer. The board of direc- tors consisted of J. S. Catherwood, chairman; W. C. Welty, Rev. 48 Fr. Gahlman, Ellsworth Iliff and Rev. A. S. Chapman. It was the duty of the board of directors to audit treasurer's accounts, pass on all bills, and investigate before paying any of the demands made upon the association; in fact the funds of the association were entirely in the custody of the board of directors. THE LIBERTY LOAN DRIVES The late Ernest X. LeSeure, of Danville, had been named county chairman of the Liberty Loan Drive Committee, and I. E. Merritt, of Hoopeston, head of the Hoopeston National Bank was his second in command — vice president — of the county organ- ization. To Elijah J. Boorde, manager of the Hoopeston Telephone Company was allotted the task of organizing Grant Township for the first liberty loan drive and so well was the work of Mr. Mer- ritt and Mr. Boorde done that long before the time limit set for Hoopeston's quota to be raised the county chairman was inform- ed that Hoopeston was "over the top." The quota of Grant Township in the first liberty loan was $170,000 and it was heavily oversubscribed. The second, third, fourth and victory loans were duplicates of the first loan and it was never necessary that intensive work be done other than the organization tasks effected beforehand. Each time the call went out for more money to prosecute the war, Hoopeston went down into her pockets. The quota of the second Liberty Loan was $297,000. The sum of $312,000 was subscribed. This was an oversubscription of $15,000. The quota of the third liberty loan was $258,000. The amount subscribed was $325,000, an oversubscription of $67,000. The quota for the fourth liberty loan was $339,448 and the sum of $267,000 was subscribed, an oversubscription of $26,552. The fifth liberty loan quota was $253,800. It was reached in less than a week and $312,000 was raised, an oversubscription of $58,200. The liberty loans were handled through Hoopeston's two banks, the Hoopeston National and the First National bank. From the first to the fifth — or Victory loan, which was raised after the armistice had been signed. All were oversubscribed. There were countless other sacrifices made cheerfully at the time and without a thought of what they were costing, that have been lost to history. There was no attempt made to record them — they were commonplace — the things that had to be done and Hoopeston did them. 49 Hoopeston's record in the world war will bear the scrutiny 'of the most exacting and is deserving of a place alongside that of cities of the land who stand at the top of the ladder of patriot- ism. Each rung of that ladder was made of sacrifice, of some- thing denied at home that those at the front might have their burden lightened. The months between the armistice and present day have cast the shadow of Time's effacing hand over the days of sorrow and heartbreak, when each night brought its new casualty list and the careful searching for names of near and dear ones, but none in Hoopeston have forgotten those days and their deeds, and none have forgotten the names of tho&e who .at home were the leaders iin war work. Lodges and Organizations Ira Owen Kreager Post, American Legionl — Grand Army of the Republic — Daughters of the American Revolution — Star Lodge No. 709, A. F. & A. M.— Hoopeston Chapter 181, R. A. M. — Modern Woodmen of America — M. H. C. Club — Knights of Columbus— I. O. O. F.— L. O. 0. M. Hoopeston has many lodges and organizations that are in a prosperous and growing condition. As the town grew from the bare prairie to the present day city of 6,000, these organizations were organized and brought into existence by their sponsors, who felt the need of a particular form of social or fraternal activity at the moment. They have filled a place in the life of the city that could not be taken by any other form of endeavor and among their various charters are to be found the names of practically all of those pioneers, who aided in the founding of Hoopeston, or who in later years assisted in its development, by giving un- tiringly of their time and money. Of the fraternal organizations the Masonic lodges are the oldest in Hoopeston and of the patriotic organizations, the Grand Army of the Republic, with only twelve surviving members. Ira Owen Kreager Post, of the American Legion, is the youngest of the patriotic organizations and as the present generation lead- ers are made up of those men who gave of their lives to the mili- tary forces of the United States, so the following resume of the lodges and organizations is started with the history of this youngest organization, already felt as one of the biggest forces in Hoopeston' s community life. OttiyERSJTY Lie-- i 52 IN MEMORIAM IRA OWEN KREAGER Ira Owen Kreager was born in Gratiot, Ohio, March 25, 1893, coming to Hoopeston with his parents in 1906. He entered the military service on April 27, 1918, being sent by the local selective service board to Camp Grant, Illinois. After a short period there he went to Camp Travis, Texas, where he was assigned to Company B. 358th U. S. Infantry, 19th division, comprising Texas and Oklahoma National Army men. He accompanied his division overseas and was killed by a fragment of high explosive shell in the Argonne Forest battle, on October 27, 1918. 53 IRA OWEN KREAGER POST, NO. 384, AMERICAN LEGION Foreword When the United States declared war upon Germany and her allies, she called to her colors the pick of the land, the youth of a youthful country. Never before had the full force of the land been called upon to be thrown against an enemy nation and it was with frankly approving eyes that she called upon those that represented the strength of the nation — her youth. Ill-versed in methods of modern warfare, un- prepared as to equipment, with no general, or com- mander, who had ever maneuvered more than 30,000 men, they went in an never-ending stream to the battlefields of Europe. With their going the result of the war was settled in the hearts and minds of every American, whether soldiers or civilians. No such word as "Fail- ure" had ever been written in the history of American warfare. The inevitable happened, and the American army rested on its arms, conscious of a victory well earned. The confidence of this great republic had not been misplaced, shoulder to shoulder, the rich man and the poor man had fought, class was forgotten and a comradeship was created that was to endure to the end of time. How fitting it was, that shortly after the close of the war, a great society was formed by these "buddies" — without regard to rank or position. They had met on common ground — the battlefield — and each had seen below the surface of the other, the real man. It was to these real men that the American Legion was dedicated. Such was the foundation upon which that vast structure, the American Legion, was built. Shortly after the return of the soldiers from the great war, in fact before all had returned, the Ira Owen Kreager Post of the American Legion was organized. The post Was named in memory of Ira Owen Kreager, who was the first Hoopeston soldier to be killed in action on the battlefields of Europe. Enough members to secure a charter were pledged and with Charles F. Dyer as the first commander, the post began its career. Charter members of the post were as follows: John R. Boorde, Peter Cerokas, Carl A. Dodson, Irbey Downey, Fred E. Earel, Russell C. Finley, Morris R. Foster, Christ V. George, Fred G. Green, William Stanley Green, Earl W. Harkness, Charles D. Hinkle, Glenn 0. Johnson, Bert A. Knoll, Orla Kreager, 54 Frank S. Martin, D. J. McFerren, William McFerren, Clarence S. Miller, Sylvester J. Murray, Lloyd P. Petry, Charles Phillips, Thomas Regalley, Ivan L. Re Veal, Frank B. Morgan, Thomas P. Smith, Fred B. Swisher, Everett VanDorn, Louis G. Willett, Dewey Gossett and Charles F. Dyer. With the return of Company B, bringing with it the great- er number of the local soldiers, the scope of the post began to en- large. At the first annual meeting Captain "Jack" Steward was e ] ected commander to guide the destinies of the organization through the year 1920. It was a year filled with eventful things in the life of the local post. Club rooms were secured and appro- priately furnished and the post established itself as a going concern. A benefit carnival that was entered into with spirit and zest by both Legion members and citizens, netted the post con- siderable over a thousand dollars. Dr. Fred Earel, as chairman of the carnival committee, made it such a success that his name was brought forward without opposition for commander of the post during the following year. With fitting ceremony, Commander Earel was ushered into office, Past Commander Steward turning over to him an organiza- tion, small, but working harmoniously toward a greater future. Commander Earel's first official act was to appoint a mem- bership committee with instructions to solicit every eligible man. As a result of the ensuing campaign 183 members were enrolled and the post became a recognized force in the community. An ac- tive committee promoted dances throughout the year and a Legion basketball team was put into the field. This year, feeling the re- sponsibility too great for their declining years, the G. A. R. Post, asked that the Legion formally take charge of the Memorial Day services. Probably no greater honor shall ever be given to the local post of the American Legion, than was bestowed upon them by this act of the G. A. R. The implicit faith that was shown when these gray haired veterans of a former war turned over the mem- ory of their illustrous dead to the American Legion was the great- est honor one American soldier could show another. And the Legion pledged itself to keep this day of memory, sacred. Fit- ting services are performed that day each year by the Legion, with the G. A. R. occupying a position of honor. As is fitting, the flag of the G. A. R. flies side by side with that of the Legion, with a common color guard. On Labor Day a monster celebration under the guidance of C. F. Dyer was planned and carried through successfully. With the profit from this undertaking, it was thought an auspicious time for the considering of a club house. The matter was brought up but finally dropped until a more suitable time. Shortly after the annual election w r as held and Floyd Sargent w r as elected and assumed command of the post. 55 Installation of Commander Sargent and his staff of officers was one of the best occasions of its kind since the organization of the post, a large percentage of the membership being present when Past Commander Earel expressed the hope and opinion that the succeeding administration would build a legion, greater than any previous administration, and urged the members to give the incoming officers the co-operation that would make it possible. Amid a riot of welcoming, Floyd Sargent assumed the command of the post. In his inaugural address, Commander Sargent gave an out- line of what his ambitions concerning the legion were, and what he hoped to have accomplished before his term expired. Among these were the following: Formation of a Ladies' Auxiliary. Increased membership. Meetings with a fair percent of the membership present. Plans laid, at least, for a permanent home. During the forepart of the administration, the body of Ira Owen Kreager was returned from France for burial in this coun- try. Commander Sargent, accompanied by Orla Kreager, brother of the deceased, went to the place of burial in Indiana, there repre- senting the local post. The body was lowered into its last resting- place with appropriate ceremonies, the Indiana post of the Legion co-operating with Commander Sargent to make it possible. Early in the summer, the funds of the post began to run low and it was decided to hold an indoor carnival. A committee was appointed with George Raasch as chairman to carry out this and the result more than justified the hope of the pro- moters. The next event of importance was the annual Labor Day celebration held in McFerren park. This affair, under the management of Vice-Commander Johnson was a big success and turned in a goodly sum to the finance officer of the post. For the balance of the year the post was under the active leadership of Vice-Commander Franklin Johnson Johnson, Commander Sargent having left the city. At the annual election of officers, the resignation of the commander was read and the executive committee voted to place the vice-commander in his place. Charles L. Beeman was selected to fill the position of vice-commander, left vacant by the appointment, Election night saw one of the most enthusiastic meetings of the year. Interest was heightened by the number of candidates for the various offices and the closeness of the contests in nearly every case. Commander Johnson was re-elected with Henry 56 Cos grove as vice-commander and Charles L. Beeman as Adjutant. Gary L. Finch was elected finance officer and Thomias P. Smith re-elected sergeant-at-arms. Reviewing the past year it will be noted that an auxiliary was formed in accordance with Commander Sargent's wish (1923.) C. A. Bailey was elected commander of the post in 1924 and his administration was one of the most successful in the his- tory of the post. It was during this administration that it was determined to hold the Fourth of July celebration in Hoopeston as an annual Legion affair, because of the success of the event in 1923. The 1924 celebration was one of the greatest events ever staged by an organization in Hoopeston. When time for the annual election of officers came around again in November, 1924, the name of Leonard Roark was placed in nomination and he was elected to succeed Commander Bailey. Commander Roark took office at the opening of 1925 and this brings the story of the Legion organization up to the present day. HARMON POST NO. 115, G.A.R. Harmon Post No. 115, of the Grand Army of the Republic, was organized on November 11, 1881 and there were 243 members on the roster at one time. Veterans who had fought in the Blue and the Gray from 17 states were included in the membership list. Six foreign nations, Germany, Ireland, Switz- erland, Sweden, France and Canada, all had sons who were numbered in the membership of the post. There were 65 members who came from the state of Indiana, 41 from Ohio, 11 from Pennsylvania and 19 from New York. In February 1925, there were only twelve members remaining on the roster as follows : Myron Sibbitt, Honeywell Avenue ; Alex- ander Taylor, Seminary Avenue ; Sam Blake- ly, McCracken Avenue; John Towner, South Market street; Arthur Davis, North Mar- ket street; Abe Kimberlin, East Lincoln street; William Rice, East Washington street; Peter Reitz, South Fourth street; Charles Miller; W. A. Briggs, Wyman Avenue; W. L. Townsley, Young Avenue and William Silvers, South Fifth street. W. L. Townsley, of Hoopeston, is the present commander of the G. A. R. post, which has given over many of its activities 57 \o a younger veterans' organization, Ira Owen Kreager Post, of the American Legion, which is told about in another section of this book. Included among the things that have been given over is the conducting of Memorial Bay, May 31, of each year. So long as there is one veteran of the G. A. R. remaining, they will take an active part in the Memorial Day services honoring the hero dead of all wars, but active cnarge of the day has passed from their "fast failing hands to others consecrated to the same ideals and purposes." DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION "Put Jv T one But Americans On Guard Tonight." Hoopeston's various organizations and lodges number many interesting orders and among the most interesting of all is that of "The Daughters of the American Revolution." Perhaps what makes the organization the most interesting is the fact that in order to become eligible for membership, some ancestor must have Tendered military aid to the cause of in- dependence in one of the United Colo- nies during the Revolutionary war. Hoopeston's chapter of the D. A. R. numbers 65 active members, all of whom have historic ancestors. Twenty years ago on Thursday, March 19, 1922, the call was first issued for the formation of a chapter of the D. A. R. in Hoopeston. The patriotic society, the Daughters of the American Revo- lution, was organized in Washington, D. C, October 11, 1890. There are at the present time about 100,000 active members, or- ganized into over 1,000 local chapters. The actual number of mem- berships the society has issued in thirty-four years of existence is near 200,000. The National Society was incorporated by Act of Congress in 1896, and in accordance with this act, the delegates meet from all chapters in annual congress in Washington in the veek in which April 19 occurs. Membership is restricted to those women, who are at least 18 years of age, and of whose ancestors at least one, "with unfail- ing loyalty, rendered martial aid to the cause of independence as a recognized patriot, as a soldier or sailor or as a civil officer in one of the United States Colonies." Every application for mem- bership must be indorsed by at least one member of the national society, and is then submitted to headqu artery at Washington, 58 who then report on the question of eligibility. Upon its approval the applicant is enrolled as a member. The papers, showing their lineage must be filed within one year after presentation of the name. Object of the society is to "perpetuate memory of the spirit of the men and women who achieved American independence ; to pro- mote institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge ; to cher- ish and maintain and extend the institutions of American patriot- ism and love of country and to aid in securing for mankind all blessings of liberty." The national society has collected many historic relics, which have been deposited in the United States National Museum in Washington, and it has also a valuable historical and geneolo»ical library at headquarters. In 1902 the society purchased a site in Washington and upon this a Memorial Continental Hall was erect- ed. In preservation of historic relics and places the D. A. R. of Hoopeston is also doing its part. Already they have marked one spot. It is on the Dixie Highway, just west of Hoopeston. A large rock has been placed there, in commemoration of the old Hubbard's Trail, one of the first trails in this part of Illinois. Each local chapter is named; sometimes after the town in which it is situated, sometimes for an ancestor, or former member. There is only one stipulation in naming a chapter, that it must not be named for any living person. The Hoopeston chanter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is named Barbara Standish. It was organized September 8, 1905, by Mary Hale Hamilton, who was appointed regent. The charter was received October 4, 1905, and the charter members besides Mrs. Hamilton were as follows : Anna Dillon Williams, vice-regent ; Eliza Lukens Williams, corresponding secretary; Anna Coggershalf Chace, re- cording secretary; Fannie Clark Todd, treasurer; Eunice Sater Harry, historian; Lillian Clark Warner, Jeanetta Cory Chamber- lain, Viola Loduska Hanly, Julia Dunfer Smith, Fanny Graggs Tilton, Mary McVay Dunavan, Julia Jones Crary, Isadore Mc- Caughey, Charlottee Lee McFerren, Anna Scott Browne, Emma Andrews and Gertrude Hall Lyons. The chapter now has sixty- five active members as follows : Lutie Woolverton Rice, regent; Ida McKibben Strong, vice- regent; Grace Schwartz Wallbridge, secretary; Anna Sager Fin- ley, treasurer; Mary Finley Honeyw r ell, registrar; Nancy Finley Crane, chaplain; Phoebe Rawlings Hutton, historian, Florence Davidson Adams, Miss Emma May Andrews, Alia Banta Arnold, Mildren Painter Beeman, Laura Haworth Bell, Irma Crouch Board- man, Helen Corey Boardman, Anna Thompson Boorde, Clarissa Holmes Bond, Flora Chestnut Conant, Edith Finley Corey, Miss Irene Crouch, Amberzilla Cox Crouch, Orrie Albright Cunningham, Margaret Barnes Deatrich, Lillian Lewis Earel, Hallie Beel Erick- 59 son, Miss Maude Evans, Miss Gladys Evans, Gladys Warner Finch, Addie Reece Finley, Miss Margaret Finley, Miss Elizabeth Frank- lin Green, Katherine Barnes Greene, Iva Beeman Gustine, Mabel Boorde Harris, Grace Miller Hawkins, Miss Sarah Alice Heaton, Miss Marie Honeywell, Effie Beal Johnson, Jessie Bushnell Jones, Miss Mary Isadore McCaughey, Hazel Brown McFarland, Mar- garet Dale Mann, Mary Janet Miller, Anna Babcock Morgan, Maude Guy Parnell, Esther Allen Petry, Carrie Harlan Pruitt, Miss Minnie Seavey, Elizabeth Schwartz Sniveler, Hattie Marston Sibbitt, Leota Peters Smith, Nellie Morgan Singleton, Lucy Webb Wallace, Eliza Lukens Williams, Anna Dillon Williams, Margaret Bushnell Woodbury, Lucy Potter Yates, Miss Zerita Schwartz, Nelle Campbell Ogdon, Laura Franklin, Vera Crane Muray, Mary Watson Johnson, Lida Watson. MASONIC LODGES Star Lodge, No. 709, A. F. & A. M. Star Lodge No. 709, Free and Accepted Masons, was charter- ed in 1872. The charter members were: George Steely, William Moore, William Brillhart, Cyrus Hartwell, J. S. Crane, Thomas Williams, Johnathan Bedell, E. D. North and J. M. Spinning. The names of these charter members it will be noted were those of men all of whom were lead- ers in the pioneer activities of the city of a civic and political nature and it was fitting that they should organize the Masonic lodge in Hoopeston, which stands at the head of the fraternal life of the city. It is also significant that the Masonic order was established in Hoopeston in the year 1872 — the year that Hoopeston became a city, which means that from the founding of Hoopeston until the present day this order has been the leader in fraternal life. Membership of Star Lodge numbers on its roster in the year 1925, leaders in the civic, political and social life of the time, in the same proportion as when this lodge was first organized, although the membership of the organization has kept pace with the town and is now numbered among the largest in this section of the state. The Masonic lodges own their quarters in the Commercial Club building, erection of this structure having been a joint effort between the Masons and the Commercial club. These quarters are the scene of the regular lodge gatherings and are also often- 60 times the place where social affairs that are always numbered- among the most enjoyable in the city are held. Charles E. Hughes is the present Worshipful Master of Star Lodge and Dan A. Miller is Secretary. Hoopeston Chapter 181, R. A. M. In the year 1879, there were only fourteen members of Hoop- eston Chapter 181, Royal Arch Masons, the second of the Masonic orders which owns this city as a home. From that small number- has been built a lodge now numbering over four score of members and that is in a healthy and flourishing condition^ Hoopeston Chapter 0. E. £L A large and active chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star is an auxiliary of the Masonic fraternities and many of the social sessions of the Masons are in hands of this organization which numbers the greater portion of the feminine leaders of Hoopeston among its ranks- Order of Builders Johnathan Bedell Chapter, Order of Builders, is the junior branch of the Masonic Fraternity, a chapter of which flourishes in Hoopeston. This junior chapter has been organized only a few years, but despite this fact is growing rapidly and becoming a worthy auxiliary of the Masonic fraternities, THE MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA Hoopeston Camp No. 257, Modern Woodmen of America, was organized in November 1886, with a membership of ten. It con- tinued to exist until February 17, 1891, when it was re-organized under the same charter. The same charter members took active part in this re-organization as follows: J. H. Campbell, Andrew and Joseph Dallstream, E. R. Mc- Connell, J. S. Moses, 0. C. Rizer, Albert Wolcott, B. H. Sedgwick, Dr. W. R. Wilson and Thomas Woolverton. 61 Neighbor Frank Bowser was the first Venerable Consul of the order, serving only six months, however, until Neighbor Charles A. Stites was elected to the position. George Deitrich then served two years followed in order by the following venerable consuls up to the present day: Charles A. Stites, eight years; William Bushnell, one year: Charles Stites, one year; Charles Smith, one year; Charles Stites, two years; Ben Rice, one year; Charles E. Musson, four years; H. A. Rossing, Ed. Nelson, Charles Musson, Bert Stone, Archie Dukes, Edward B. Finch, E. H. Richcreek, William McMurray and H. J. Campbell. All of these men contributed a part to the achievements of the Woodmen attained in the years of their existence as well as some others not honored in an official capacity but who were among the greatest boosters for the organization. Neighbor Andrew Dallstream was the first clerk of the Wood- men and labored hard for two years trying to reach the one hun- dred mark in membership but ninety-five was the best that could be done at that time. Following Clerk Dallstream's death the late C. J. Nelson served one year and was succeeded by Neighbor J. W. Sherill who served only a few months until the late Nelson J. Mc- Coy was elected. Clerk McCoy served for 17 years until the time of his death which occurred on October 11, 1917. The camp at that time had a membership of 342 and was in a prosperous and growing condition when H. W. Birch was named clerk pro-tem to serve until Leroy Songer was elected to the office in November, 1917, to serve the unexpired term of Clerk McCoy. Clerk Songer was re-elected in December 1917 and in 1918 and has been return- ed to the office each year since by the members. On April 30, 1925, the membership roster showed 483 mem- bers, making the Modern Woodmen in point of numbers one of the strongest of Hoopeston's fraternal institutions. The gain of over 100 members since 1917 has largely been due to the efficient work of Clerk Leroy Songer and other officers with the excellent support that has been given by the membership body. The Modern Woodmen in addition to their social and fraternal advantages have a "business "side to their organization that is well worth the investigation of every citizen. This is in reference to their insurance benefits, the Hoopeston lodge having made a wonderful record in this field since their establishment in this city. The Woodmen maintain commodious quarters in The Chron- icle-Herald Building at the corner of Main and Bank streets and meet every Wednesday night. Their lodge rooms are also often the scene of special gatherings of a social nature. Following are the 1925 officers : W. J. Campbell, Venerable Consul; W. J. McMurray, Past Consul; E. E. Ellis, Adviser; Leroy Songer, Clerk; Thomas F. 62 Clements, Banker; Donald Ellis, escort; Thomas 0. Magee, Watch- man; N. A. Norris, Sentry; E. J. Keister, E. C. Endsley and Fred Martin, Trustees; Dr. Fred E. Earel, Dr. A. J. Clay, Dr. A. L. Brobeck, Dr. F. P. Johnson, Dr. C. 0. Nelms and Dr. A. M. Earel, medical examiners. The Royal Neighbors A large and active auxiliary of the Woodmen lodge, 'The Royal Neighbors" exists in Hoopeston, and use the Woodmen lodge rooms for their meetings which are held on a regular sche- dule. The Royal Neighbors exert considerable of an influence on the social life not only of the lodge but of the city as well. Each year finds them with a stronger membership keeping pace with the Woodmen. THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Hoopeston Council, No. 1,761 In October 1914, the Rev. Fr. Fred Gahlman, pastor of St. Anthony's Catholic church, interested a number of the members of the St. Anthony's parish in the formation of a council of the Knights of Columbus in Hoopeston. On October 7, 1914, the new organization was founded, James Boyle and A. B. Shannon, of Danville, State Deputy Brown and Edward Houlihan, of Chicago, coming to Hoopeston to aid in the organization work. At this organization meeting Ford Bradley was selected as the first Grand Knight of the lodge, to serve for the period of one year, until October 1915, and other officers were as follows: Dep- uty Grand Knight, Ambrose Roark; Chancellor, John Barragree; Recorder, Walter Ernst ; Financial Secretary, Clarence R. McClaf f- lin; Treasurer, John Burdan; Lecturer, J. M. Hannell; Advocate, A. Bell ; Warden, J. Sloan ; Guards, Peter Balensiefer and Thomas Green; Trustees, James Barragree, James Mulcahey, Mike Stack; Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Fred Gahlman. The new organization flourished during its first year, filling a need that had been long felt in the social life of St. Anthony's parish. Lodge rooms were located over the Parenti Confection- cry, (now the H. & H. Confectionery). On October 5, 1915, Hugh Roark, jr., was named Grand 63 Knight to serve the second year until October, 1916. Other offic- ers were as follows: Deputy Grand Knight. Michael Anderson, jr., Chancellor, William Auth; Recorder, William Regan; Finan- cial Secretary, C. R. McClafflin; Treasurer, John Burdan; Lectur- er, J. M. Hannel ; Advocate, Stephen Morrow ; Warden, John Sloan ; Guards, Peter Balensiefer and Henry Barragree ; Trustees, James Mulcahey, Mike Stack and Charles Tomilson ; Chaplain, Fr. Fred Gahlman. The story of the lodge has been one of continual growth since its organization. At the end of the second administration it was in a healthy and flourishing condition and continued so during the next two administrations, 1916 and 1917, during which the follow- ing officers served: 1916 — Hugh Roark, jr., Grand Knight, (re-elected) ; Deputy Grand Knight, Thomas Green ; Chancellor, William Auth ; Recor- der, Ray Barragree ; Financial Secretary, C. R. McClafflin ; Treas- urer,, Arthur Bell ; Lecturer, Ed. Layden ; Advocate Peter T. Roark ; Warden, Joe Barragree ; Guards, William Murphy and Joe Green ; Trustees, Mike Stack, Charles Tomilson and William Golds- berry ; Fr. Fred Gahlman, chaplain. In 1917 the outbreak of the world war came and the Hoopes- ton council, as did others throughout the nation, raised a great fund for aid and comfort of the men in camps in this country and in France and England. This fund was used to establish Knights of Columbus huts in various camps and the amount of good that was done can only be measured when the final summing up of all things earthly is effected. This fund was administered with- out consideration of creed, color or country and the soldier boys of all nations enjoyed their privileges in France, while in the camps of this country, soldiers of all faith and creeds gathered at the K. of C. huts for the entertainments, etc., that served to aid in whiling away the long hours away from home and in keeping up the morale of the army. John Sloan, jr., was re-elected Grand Knight in 1918 and Charles Green, Deputy Grand Knight. Other officers were : Chan- cellor, John Gleason ; Recorder, J. M. Hannell ; Financial Secretary, Hugh Roark, jr., Treasurer, Peter Roark, jr., Lecturer, Frank Lee; Advocate, Robert Carlin ; Warden, John Burdan ; Guards, William Murphy and Hugh Roark, Sr. ; Trustees, William Goldsberry, Henry Barragree and Peter Balensiefer. The war ended in 1918 and the National council of the Knights of Columbus still had on its hands a great part of the fund that had been given by councils throughout the nation for war work. This fund was set aside for educational purposes and has been used to give schooling in many trades and professions, to ex- servicemen, regardless of their religious affiliations up to the present time. The year 1919 found the lodge in new quarters in the Burton 64 building", to which they had removed in the latter part of 1918. George E. Harbert was the first Grand Knight to serve in the new lodge rooms, among the finest in the city and the Deputy Grand Knight was William Regan. Chancellor, Nicholas Gaston; Recor- der, James Regan; Financial Secretary, Hugh Roark, jr.; Treas- urer, Peter Roark jr.; Lecturer, Charles Thuot; Advocate, William Nichols; Warden, Franklin Murphy; Guards, Henry Cosgrove, Hugh Roark, Sr. ; Trustee, Henry Barragree, Peter Balensiefer and William Goldsberry. Peter Roark, jr., was elected Grand Knight at the election held October 7, 1920, and other officers were as follows: Deputy Grand Knight, Henry Cosgrove; Chancellor, J. M. Hanneli; Re- corder, Franklin Murphy; Financial Secretary, Hugh Roark, jr.; Treasurer, John Sloan; Lecturer, Ralph Houghton; Advocate, Ralph Houghton; Warden, Thomas Green; Guards, Joe Green and J. N. Fraley ; Trustees, Peter Balensiefer, William Goldsberry and Henry Barragree. Dr. J. M. Hanneli was elected Grand Knight at the election held October 6, 1921, and it was during this year that the lodge increased their activities to include an athletic program, a basket- ball team: being formed as follows: G. E. Harbert, manager; J. Fraley, captain; Paul Fraley, Thomas Gustin, Franklin Murphy and Pat Sheridan. A schedule of games was played, the majority of which were victories for the Knights. Enough money was made to purchase sweaters and baseball uniforms, which were used the following spring. Other officers for 1921 were: Deputy Grand Knight, Joe Green; Chancellor, William Regan; Recorder, James Regan ; Financial Secretary, Hugh Roark jr. ; Treasurer, John Sloan; Lecturer, George E. Harbert; Advocate, Henry Bar- ragree; Warden, Charles Thuot; Guards, Henry Cosgrove and Peter Balensiefer. In 1922, Fr. Fred Gahlman had the honor of serving in a double official capacity, when he was elected Grand Knight and Chaplain. Other officers were : Deputy Grand Knight, J. N. Fra- ley ; Chancellor, J. M. Hanneli ; Recorder, James Regan ; Financial Secretary, Hugh Roark, jr.; Treasurer, John Sloan; Lecturer, Peter Roark, jr.; Advocate, Franklin Murphy; Warden, Charles Thuot; Guards, Thomas Green and Ralph Houghton; Trustees, William Goldsberry, Peter Balensiefer and Henry Barragree. Charles Thuot was elected to the post of Grand Knight at the election held October 6, 1923, and the following were named to serve with him : Deputy Grand Knight, Stephen Morrow ; Chan- cellor, J. M. Hanneli; Recorder, Dwayne Heffernan; Financial Secretary, Franklin Murphy; Treasurer, Lucien Archambeault ; Lecturer; Joseph Schuler; Advocate, Ralph Houghton; Warden, Thomas Green; Guards, James Regan and Charles Green; Trus- tees, Peter Balensiefer, Henry Barragree and Charles B. Murray. In October, 1924, John Fraley was elected Grand Knight of 6h the Council and Jesse Hoover was named to the position of Deputy Grand Knight. Other officers who are at present serving are as follows : Chancellor, J. Hannell ; Recorder, Elmer Denman ; Fin- ancial Secretary, Franklin Murphy; Treasurer, Lucien Archam- beault ; Lecturer, J. M. Hannell ; Advocate, Claire Regan ; Warden, Charles Thuot; Guards, James Regan and James Dodd; Trustees, Charles D. Murray, John Sloan and Peter Roark, jr. In each administration since the organization of the lodge the Rev. Fr. Fred Gahlman, pastor of St. Anthony's church has served in the capacity of chaplain. In January, 1925, the disastrous fire which partially destroy- ed the Town Clock and Burton building burned out the council quarters, destroying their equipment. At a recent meeting held, the council decided to rent the property of Fr. Fred Gahlman, 323 East Lincoln street, remodel the house that stands there and use this as their quarters. This will be their new home when this task, now begun, has been completed. HOOPESTON LODGE, I. O. O. P. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is another of the fra- ternal organizations that has been established in Hoopeston al- most continuously since the founding of the city, being establish- ed here in 1872. In the month of September of that year, a char- ter for the lodge was granted to the following members: W. F. Rader, Sidney Teller, B. F. Stites, John Burns and H. Shaver. In the year 1879, the lodge had grown until there were forty members on the roster and this growth has been continued at an excellent rate since that time until there are at present over a hundred members on the lists of the organization in Hoopeston. The Odd Fellows meet every Tuesday evening in their lodge rooms in the Town Clock Building. MARY HARTWELL CATHERWOOD CLUB Although originally organized as a purely literary club, the Mary Hartwell Catherwood club is deserving of a place in the history of the city. It is named for and dedicated to one of Hoopeston's most illustrious residents, Mrs. Mary Hartwell Cath- erwood, famous novelist, who for many years was a citizen of Hoopeston. It is also deserving of a place in the history of Hoop- eston for the works it has accomplished. Organized in November, 1895, at the home of Mrs. Frances 66 Trego, among the charter members were: Mrs. Mary Hartwell Catherwood, Mrs. A. H. Trego, Mrs. Dale Wallace and Mrs. E. C. Griffith. Three years after its organization the club took up a work for which it will be remembered for many years in Hoopeston, that of sponsoring the Free Public Library in Hoopeston. Although it was only a few years until a Carnegie Free Public Library had been established in Hoopeston, to the Mary Hartwell Catherwood club belongs the credit of establishment of the first free public library. They have since the establishment of the Carnegie Li- brary been amlong its most loyal supporters. The club now numbers thirty members and holds regular meetings every other Monday evening nine months of the year. Its annual banquets, since the organization of the club have been among the most exclusive and successful social functions of the city and remain so at the present time. LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE Although among the youngest of Hoopeston's fraternal orders, The Moose Lodge in point of numbers is one of the strong- est in the city, and each year that passes shows this member :hip increased and the lodge in better conditions. Regular meetings are held by the Moose in their quarters on Main street and their hall is also often the scene of social activities and dances that are among the best events of the nature held in Hoopeston. Commercial Activities General Survey — Some Hoopeston "Rooster" Points — The Cham- ber of Commerce — The Hoopeston National Bank — The First National Bank — Hoopeston's Newspapers — The North Ver- milion Chronicle Established by Dale Wallace and Gideon W. Seavey — The Hoopeston Herald — The Chronicle-Heralds — Classified Business Directory of Hoopeston, Almost from the first day of its founding', Hoopeston has en- joyed a prominent place in mercantile circles of the county and state. Its location has won for the town the right to be considered as the "trading capital" of Northern Vermilion county. Its trade territory is not confined to Vermilion county alone, how- ever, and extends into Western Indiana for many miles and also embraces a good portion of southern Iroquois county. The story of the growth of Hoopeston has in a large measure been the story of its mercantile establishments. Where at first one general store, a hardware store and a few "home trading centers" came into existence, now is a city containing a store for every specialized need and not only one of them but in the ma- jority of cases several establishments that will compare favorably with those of cities of much greater size. Some of the facts that have led to the location in this city of these solid and substantial mercantile establishments are given following. Hoopeston has more miles of paved street than any other city of its size in the world. More paving is being laid annually by the city and beautiful thoroughfares are being kept in repair, that insures their life for many years to come. Hoopeston's schools are second to none in the state. A high school providing several elective college courses, classed as a .^rade "A" institution and from which students have been ad- mitted to Yale University, Harvard University, Princeton Uni- versity and many of the other great seats of learning. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ANA : ^ 69 Hoopeston has the cheapest gas and electric rate of any city in the state of Illinois. It has a gas and electric plant, owned by the Central Illinois Public Service Company, which supplies light and heat to residents at a cost that is far below that of any other city in the state. It has a municipally owned waterworks which keeps the city supplied with wholesome water, that time and again has been tested and proved to be the healthiest water in the state. Hoopeston is a city of good moral tone, it never has had a saloon in operation within the city limits, many beautiful churches with large congregations supply the religious needs of the city. Financially the city is in first class shape. It is the only city in the country that has been known to lend money to its citizens, with which to build homjes, through a Building and Loan Asso- ciation. Hoopeston is above everything else a city of beautiful homes. More residents own their own homes in Hoopeston than in any other city of its size in the nation. Beautiful residential districts stretch in every direction from the central business district and building operations for the coming year are expected to experi- ence a boom, providing homes for many more citizens who come here to make their home. Hoopeston has a $100,000 motion picture theatre known as The Lorraine Theater, which was built and placed in operation in Hoopeston by E. J. Boorde. The theatre is one of the most beau- tiful in the state of Illinois, caters to the best class of pictures shown in the country and provides a wholesome source of amuse- ment. Hoopeston has the most modern equipped newspaper plant in a city of 6,000 in the state of Illinois. The paper, The Chronicle- Herald, is published daily by The Aldrich Printing & Publishing Company, which also does high-class jobwork. A weekly, sum- ming the news of the day for the farmers is also published. All of these factors have proved of inestimable value in the growth of the city commercially. They have provided a firm foundation upon which the merchants of Hoopeston have built trade to the value of many thousands of dollars annually. A live Chamber of Commerce, at present one of five in the state of Illinois employing a woman secretary, Miss Bertha York, functions as the central clearing house for community activities and provides a means of pooling the interests of the commercial leaders of Hoopeston. THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Hoopeston's first civic commercial organization was styled the Hoopeston Business Men's Association and for many years served the needs of the growing city, until 1919, when the need 7) for more unified effort became apparent. The Business Men's Association had not proved a failure, but the town had simply prown to beyond its capacity to serve. Therefore, it was deter- mined that a Chamber of Commerce should be established and on August 5, 1919, A. M. Keller, I. E. Merritt and Ellsworth Iliff were selected as an incorporating committee and became the in- corporators of "The Hoopeston Chamber of Commerce," the ob- jects of which are: "To promote the commercial, industrial and civil welfare of the City of Hoopeston and her surrounding district; to aid in the conservation and advancement of the business and profession- al interests in this community; to foster and encourage the manu- facturing and agricultural development and to bring into closer lion and co-operation, the entire community through member- h?p in the Hoopeston Chamber of Commerce." The following persons were selected to control the destinies of the new incorporation for the first year: George E. Evans, trea- rurer; Mac C. Wallace, John F. Ost, William Moore, I. E. Merritt, Ellsworth Iliff, Ore M. Ross, W. C. Welty, E. J. Boorde, F. C. Moore, I. N. Heaton, Mark R. Koplin, Charles W. Warner, Otto Ogdon and Walter Trego. A charter was issued by the secretary of state and the new organization was ready for business. It was determined that a paid secretary would accomplish more for the city and the com- mercial and industrial interests and Orren I. Bandeen was em- ployed for the period of one year. On December 9, 1920, a meeting of the membership body was held, the constitution and by-laws were adopted and the fol- lowing board of directors elected for two years, ending December 1. 1922: G. H. Couchman, Dr. Fred E. Earel, Dr. John A. Heaton, Thomas Martin, W. A. Miskimen, L. W. Singleton; For one year, ending December 1, 1921: Dexter Crandall, George Lester, D. J. McFerren, A. W. Murray, Otto Ogdon and Walter Trego. At a special meeting held December 14, 1920, the board organized by electing the following officers: Dexter Crandall, president; G. H. Couchman, vice-president; E. E. Yates, treasurer; 0. I. Ban- deen, secretary. A membership drive was staged by the new Chamber of Com- merce during 1921 that resulted in a strong roster list of nearly 200 members being signed up for a period of three years. On Novemjber 16, 1921, H. B. Zabriskie, of Patterson, New Jersey, was employed to succeed O. I. Bandeen as secretary of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Bandeen had resigned to go to a larger city. Mr. Zabriskie served during the first six months of his term satisfactorily and had started to serve his second period of six months, when the board of directors terminated its con- tract with him to permit the secretary to go to another Illinois city. Paul Weber was named as the president of the Chamber 7i o A © *i ores ft ■ H H p o o ►— ' CD o n p - CD <—t- 3 •"S p CD cr p CO o p P - P - P P <-r •""^ H O CO <-r O P^ CD cd 3 co CO CD P rt- P 3 p p cr CD CD P bo' M CD O Crq co" 3 o cd < CD P. 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Evans, one of the principal figures in the organi- zation of the Chamber of Commjerce and for many years one of the staunchest supporters of the civic body was elected president in December, 1922, to serve during 1923 and executed the con- tract with Mr. Yates as secretary. At the conclusion of his six months service, Mr. Yates re- turned to Fairbury Association of Commerce, as its secretary and the Hoopeston organization was again left without a paid adviser. In December, 1923, G. H. Couchman was named as presi- dent of the organization to serve during the year 1924. It had been determined that the civic organization would do without the services of a paid secretary for a time in order to recuperate their finances as well as to try out a new system. In the fall of 1924 it was decided, however, that a paid secretary was a neces- sity to the organization, and Miss Bertha York, a native of Hoopeston was selected as its mentor and adviser. In December, 1924, Paul E. Weber was elected to serve an- other term as president of the organization, due to the great strides which the civic body made during his first administration. How wise a choice this was, will be best determined at the end of the present year, 1925, with the organization in perhaps its healthiest and best condition since its establishment. TlOOPESlON jMTiONAL DANK \C HOOPESTON, ILL. J)J> ^ 73 THE HOOPESTON NATIONAL BANK Established in June, 1909, the Hoopeston National Bank, al- though this city^s youngest financial institution has enjoyed a steady growth in business and popularity until at the present time it is considered one xl the strongest banks in. this Action of the state. For many years after thr Hamilton & Cunningham bank had ceased to exist in Hoopes- ton the First National Bank was the only institution of this na- ture in Hoopeston. In the year 1909 I. E. Mer- ritt and Mark R. Koplin of Buckley, Illinois, came to Hoop- eston. These two gentlemen were at that time proprietors of the State Bank at Buckley and became convinced that there was room for another sturdy fi- nancial institution. Accordingly in June, 1909, the Hoopeston National Bank was established. In 1922, Mr. Koplin who had served as cashier of the bank foi the thirteen year period up to that time, withdrew from the bus- iness removing to Memphis, Tennessee. His place as cashier of the bank was taken by L. W. Singleton, another Buckley citizen, who has with its president, Mr. Merritt, been responsible for the conduct of affairs of the institution up to the present date. Commercial banking, foreign exchange, safe deposits vaults, savings department, travelers cheques and letters of credit are all handled by the Hoopeston National Bank which under the guid- ance of able officials has grown in its sixteen year history to be known throughout the state as a power in the banking world. The Hoopeston National bank, at the close of business Decem- ber 31, 1924, had assets of $1,203,655. Its capitalization is $100,- 000. Officers of the bank at present are: Isaac E. Merritt, Presi- dent; James H. Dyer, Vice-President; L. W. Singleton, Cashier; Everett E. Yates, Asst. Cashier. Directors are: I. E. Merritt, James H. Dyer, L. W. Singleton, I. E. Merritt William McFerren 75 B. R. Burton, J. A. Fickle, Tade Layden and William B. McFar- land. Courteous service to all, regardless of the size of their account or the business which they have to transact, is the unbroken rule at the Hoopeston National Bank. THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK Established in the year 1872, shortly after the city of Hoop- eston had been incorporated, the First National Bank is not only the city's oldest financial institution, but for many years was the only business of this nature carried on in Hoopeston. The bank was established by J. S. McFerren, pioneer resident and the first mayor of Hoopeston, with a capitalization of $25,000. It was a successful venture from the start, residents of this section repos- ing great confidence in the business ability of J. S. McFerren, who was named as President of the bank, an office in which he con- tinued up to the date of his death in 1921. The history of the First National bank has been one of con- tinuing growth and expansion. As the town of Hoopeston took on the form of a city, the bank's capitalization was increased, de- positors flocked to its doors and today it carries on commercial banking, foreign exchange, has safe deposits vaults and savings departments, issues travelers' cheques and letters of credit and is generally regarded as one of the notably strong financial insti- tutions of eastern Illinois. The unwritten law of the First National bank is that every per- son, regardless of station, rich or poor, shall receive most cordial attention at any desk from that of the president down to the low- est subordinate and this rule, established by the late J. S. Mc- Ferren, has always been strictly adhered to. Resources of the bank are well over the million and a quarter mark and capital stock in the institution is now $100,000. On the death of J. S. McFerren, his son, William McFerren, became president of the First National Bank, an office he has con- tinued to hold with marked success up to the present day. Other officials of the bank are: D. J. McFerren, Vice-President; Roy Boughton, Cashier; J. V. Evans, Assistant Cashier and Ferae B. Davis, Assistant Cashier. Directors are: E. F. Trego, Mac C. Wallace, William Mc- Ferren, D. J. McFerren and Roy Boughton. Judge" Dale Wallace 77 HOOPESTON'S NEWSPAPERS It was the last quarter of 1871. In the circumnambient at- mosphere surrounding the newly-born village, situated on the east border of the Grand Prairies there was the echoing thump, thump, of the hammer and the raucous scratching of the saw, denoting extraordinary activity, in fact vigorous haste. Every man who could wield a mechanical tool was busy from daylight to dark. Scattered throughout the dense vegetable growth of this fertile region, there were smiall dwellings, frame storerooms and occa- sionally a shack of rough boards. They sprang into existence like mushrooms overnight. What was the cause? Convergance of two railroads crossing at right angles ; one partly completed, the other only graded. Everybody keen to get in line for brisk com- mercial activities soon to follow. A strange young man alighted from the construction train and wended his way through the resin weeds to the apartment center of the business district. He wore store clothes, had long black hair and a general appearance and quiet demeanor. He might have been taken for a poet or a preacher. The village was scattered over hundreds and more hundreds of acres of the finest prairie land in Illinois. He sauntered, he observed, he wondered, if he had not made a mistake. True, the territory was ample, the foundation was in fact prodigious, but the superstructure was very, very meagre. What to do — what to do? Observing the strange biped, wander- ing around with apparently nothing in view, the curiosity of one pioneer merchant encompassed him. So he propounded this query: "Well, what do you come here to do?" A very reasonable, if slightly ungrammatical question, as everybody else was work- ing and seemed to have some definite object in view in coming to the little hamlet while the strange man was merely marking time. "W T ell, my good friend, I came here to establish a newspaper." There were no churches, yet. "God-da-mighty' kid, do you think it would pay in this little berg." "That depends on you and your contemporaries. Would you take the paper?" "Sure." "Would you advertise your business in its columns?" "You bet I would." Then the clock struck twelve, for the spirit exemplified by the first client was manifested by all the others and in conjunc- tion with Gideon W. Seavey, Dale Wallace, who was a practical and experienced member of the firm, launched the North Vermil- ion Chronicle in January, 1872, four months after the surveyor's stakes were driven for the planning of the town of Hoopeston. 78 The reason it was given the name of North Vermilion Chronicle, was because quite an element of the populace was not friendly to the name of Hoopeston, wanting something more euphonious, more aristocratic and were agitating the feasibility of changing the name. But as the two railroads crossed Thomas Hoopes' land, the companies decided to honor the veteran landlord and it was named Hoopeston. The Chronicle plant was located in the second story of Moore and Brillhart's hardware store, corner Market street and Thomp- son Avenue, opposite the northwest corner of the Market street park. As the day approached for the first issue of the paper, the little village citizens became enthusiastically anxious to see what ; t would look like and many of the leading ones were desiring of owning the tirst complete copy that came from the press. To be fair to all it was agreed to offer it to the highest bidder at public • uction. There was spirited bidding and it was finally sold to Dr. S. P. Thompson for the munificent sum of $32.50 — rather a rrh price for a single copy. But the patriotic doctor said it was worth it and still has it in his possession in his home in Craw- fordsville, Indiana. The printing of the first edition on a new Washington nana press called forth some remarks from Mr. Wal- lace who had tne job in hands, that would not be permitted in print in the columns of the family paper. In order to have more room, the plant was removed to a build- ing almost opposite the present site of the United Presbyterian church and later to the fram« building on the site of the Worthen store. Three years later it was removed to the basement of J. S. McFerren's new First National bank building, now the home of the First National Bank. In the meantime, Mr. Wallace became sole owner of the paper, which he held until July, 1882, when he relinquished his management to Charles W. Warner. He established the Daily Chron- icle in 1881. J. M. Clark, owner of two sections of fine farming land, west of the village, removed to Hoopeston, engaged in mercantile business and later purchased a printing outfit and establish- ed the Hoopeston Herald. It was under the management of Rev. Haven M. Haff, a retired Methodist preacher, who was succeeded by Billy Spence and from then on the Herald led a precarious existence until George R. Deatrich resurrected it from an untimely decay. William m !__■■■■ C. W. Warner Fleming later on established the Hoopeston News, then the Arter Brothers took it over, then Charles P. Huey and it finally yielded up the ghost. But the old Chronicle weathered the storm for CHESTER A. ALDRICH Editor and Manager of The Chronicle-Herald UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA 79 nearly fifty years. Then it got tired and wanted a rest, so crawled into a comfortable nest by the side of the virile and energetic Herald, and by the combination, Hoopeston has the best news- paper in the State of Illinois, population considered. The Evening Herald, an offshoot of the Hoopeston Heraid, was founded in 1903 by the late George R. Deatrich and was suc- cessfully published by him and his brother-in-law, S. A. Barnes and L. R. Smith. Mr. Deatrich, when again owner of the paper, died in 1909 and his wife and daughter, Miss Natalie Deatrich, became the publishers. In 1910 they sold the Evening Herald to Cole Brothers, of Chicago, who six months later disposed of their interests to Chester A. Aldrich who came here from Mattoon, Illinois. The latter has been owner and publisher of the paper since then with the exception of about five months, when A. P. Spencer, now located at Highland, Illinois, was owner and publish- er. On March 1, 1913, Mr. Aldrich again took over the own- ership and on April 15, 1921, bought the interests of Charles W. Warner and the Hoopeston Daily and Weekly Chronicle. Mr. Aldrich consolidated the papers under the name of The Chronicle- Herald, daily and weekly. In August, 1921, a stock company was organized with a capitalization of $40,000, which took over the ownership of the combined publications and printing plant under the corporate name of the Aldrich Printing and Publishing Company, Incorporat- ed. The officers of the company are: Chester A. Aldrich, Presi- dent, who is also editor and general manager, Mac C. Wallace, Vice-President; Daisy B. Mclntyre, secretary-treasurer. The stockholders include some of the leading citizens and business men of Hoopeston. In September, 1924, H. J. Harris, of Otterbein, Indiana, came to Hoopeston and organized the Hoopeston Evening Times. In February, 1925, this paper was incorporated under the name of the Hoopeston Evening Times Publishing Company. 80 Business Directory Attorneys Charles A. Allen, 501 Will- don Building. Couchman & Couchman, 504- 5-6 Willdon Building. Dyer & Dyer, 408 Willdon Building. Robert R. Rodman, 517-18-19 Willdon Building. Charles E. Russell, 203 1-2 East Main street. Automobiles Hoopeston Motor Sales Co., 316 East Main street. Kimberlin Transfer, 112-14 West Main. William McFerren & Co., 21-25 East Main. Ransom & Sims, 319 East Main. Vermilion Auto Company, Merritt Building. James Murray & Sons, 214 West Main. S. & W. Chevrolet Company, North Market street. Bakeries Ideal Bakery, 102 North Market. Lyons Bakery, 204 North Market. Banks First National Bank, East Main. Hoopeston National Bank, East Main. Barbers Ray Jaynes, 103 South Mar- ket. D. A. Smith, Basement 20 1 South Market. J. W. Marlatt, East Main. D. C. Worley, Basement 115 East Main. E. J. Keister, Basement 200 East Main. Isaac T. Manuel, East Mair>. Rice & Rice, East Main. Battery Service Webber's Battery Service, 112 East Main. William McFerren & Com- pany, Exide Service, 301 East Main. Willard Battery. Service, 221 North Market. Beauty Shops Mrs. L. R. Miller, 415 Will- don building. Mrs. Jesse Bell, First Na- tional Bank Building. Chemists T. C. Watters, 511 Willdon Building. Chiropractics Bash & Bash, 509-10 Willdon building. Clothing & Shoes Frank F. Dornfeld & Co., 207 East Main. George E. Evans Co., 228 East Main. P. Larson Company, 223 East Main. William Glover, 210 East Main. The Empire Shoe Store, East Main street. Confectioneries Illinois Sugar Bowl, 215 East Main Street. H. & H. Confectionery, 225 East Main. ROBERT R. RODMAN Attorney-at-Law * miftOIS 81 Contractors N. H. Stokes, 910 West Washington street. Thomas P. Smith, East Main street. Albert Warner, 623 Thomp- son Avenue. William Johnson, (masonry) 313 North Market. William Sargent, Dice Addi- tion. N. E. Weaver, (masonry) 861 East Maple street. Creamery Hoopeston Creamery Com- pany, 219 South Market. Dentists Dr. J. M. Hannell, 202 1-2 East Main street. Dr. J. M. Hannell Dr. John A. Heaton, First National Bank Bldg. Dr. Leo F. Rank, 307 1-2 East Main street. Dr. J. H. Robinson, 301 Will- don Building. Druggists Brothers, 226 East Elliott Main. Hipke & Weber, The Rexall Store, 221 East Main. G. E. Lester, 220 East Main. McAllister East Main. Pharmacy, Dry Goods Stores 105 ^■; SBHAp* John F. Ost Hoopeston Department Store, 210 South Market. Ogdon's Dry Goods Com- pany, 224 East Main. Worthen's Dry Goods Com- pany, 203 East Main. B. R. Burton Burton Dry Goods Company, 202-4 East Main. 82 Feed Barns O'Malley's Feed Store, 226 South Bank street. Musk Feed Barn, 201 First Avenue. Filling Stations Dixie Oil & Gas Company, 1029 West Main. Standard Oil Company, West Main. Roxanna Service Station, West Main street. Johnson Oil Co., East Main. Florists E. A. Raasch & Sons, 301 West Main. Joseph Schuler, Dice Addi- tion. Fire-Fighting Equipment Charles L. Beeman, East Washington street. Dall Milburn, South Fifth Street. Fruit & Vegetables Ogdon's Quality Market, 215 South Market. Fuel, Lumber and Grain Hoopeston Grain & Coal Company, yards at North Ele- vator, 427 Front street. Illinois Lumber, Grain & Coal Company, West Penn. McGill Coal Company, 103 East Lincoln. Hott-Miller Lumber & Coal Company. Groceries A. & P., East Main. J. H. Boothe, 101 East Main. Passons' Grocery, 601 East Lincoln street. Great American, East Main. People's Grocery, 312 East Main. O. E. Randolph, 305 East Main. S. E. Shaw, 419 McCracken Avenue. North Side Grocery, 202 North Market. J. T. Ogdon & Company, 313 South Second Avenue. M. L. Slauter, 601 South Second Avenue. Wilson Bros., East Main. The Fidelity Store, East Main. H. C. Green Store, 516 East Young Avenue. J. D. Kivell, West Main street. Martin's Grocery, West Main. Keister's Store, West Penn. Hardware Luther E. Alkire, 229 East Main. Luther E. Alkire 83 A. H. Campbell Company, Bank street. Nelson & Fenwick, Main street. Hotels Cunningham Hotel, 102 East Main. Hoopeston Hotel, 115 East Main. Waverly House, East Penn. Ice Hoopeston Ice & Cold Stor- age Company. Insurance & Real Estate Mac C. Wallace, First Na- tional Bank Building. Dr. John A. Heaton, East Main, Chicago National Life. Mrs. 0. W. Heaton, East Main, Federal Life. John Guingrich, East Main. George W. Duley, First Na- tional Bank Building. Douglas G. Gilman, 203 1/2 East Main. Clarence Lee, First National Bank Building. E. H. Richcreek, 108 North Market. Thomas Green, 404 Willdon. Heaton Bros., Fourth Floor, Willdon Building. Jewelers Elliotts' Jewelry- Store, 309 East Main. John Petry Jewelry Store, 214 East Main. Laundry Hand Laundry, 213% East Main street. Park Steam Laundry, 201 North Market. Loans and Savings North Vermilion Loan & Savings Association, 301 East Main. Meat Markets J. J. Long, 217 South Mar- ket. Ogdon's Quality Market, 215 South Market. J. T. Ogdon Co., 313 Second Avenue. Swisher & Hanner, 105 West Main. Milliners Burton Dry Goods Store. Empire Shoe Store. Hoopeston Department Store Mrs. M. H. Seavey. Worthen Dry Goods Com- pany. Monuments Hoopeston Granite & Mar- ble Works, 115 East Penn. Osteopath Dr. Payson W. Hoyt, 312 Willdon Building. Photographers Johnson's Studio, 225% So. Market Street. LacyV Studio, 219i/ 2 East Main street. Plumbing & Heating Carl Anderson, 104 South Market. Frank R. Jarrell, 304-10 East Seminary Avenue. A .W. Murray, 219 South Market. Nelson & Fenwick, 218 East Main street. Poultry Lyons' Poultry House. Printing Aldrieh Printing & Publish- ing Company, 201 East Main. Knox Printing Company, 209 South Market. The Times Publishing Com- pany, East Main street. 84 Physicians Dr. A. L. Brobeck, 307 % East Main. Dr. A. M. Earel, 507-508 Willdon Building. Dr. A. J. Clay, 309 Willdon Building. Dr. Fred E. Earel, 202% East Main (Kline & Earel). Dr. Ross E. Elvidge, 401 Willdon Building. Dr. F. P. Johnson, 301 V 2 East Main street. Dr. F. P. Johnson Dr. Leroy Jones, 306 Willdon Building. Dr. R. G. Kline, 202 H 2 East Main (Kline & Earel.) Dr. J. C. Moore, 404 Willdon Building. Dr. C. O. Nelms, 306 Will- don Building. Dr. L. B. Russell, 230% East Main street. Restaurants J. H. Jones, East Main. White Kitchen, East Main. Warff Restaurant,- East Main Cottage Inn, opposite Union Station. Shoe Repairing Denman's Shoe Repair Shop, 221 South Market street. Taxi Service Bvrd Taxi and Garage, 105 Bank street. Kimperlin's Transfer, 112- pany, 112 West Main. Theaters The Lorraine Theater. The McFerren Opera House. Tire Shop Earl Musson, 103 North Market street. The Tire Company of Illi- nois, North Market street. Transfers The Holmes Transfer & Stor- age Company, 225 First Ave- nue. Kimberlin's Transfer, 112- 114 West Main street. Undertakers P. G. Osborne, 212 East Main street. Parker & Scott, 208 East street. Harry H. Hamilton, 222 East Main. Vanite Shoppe The Vanite Shoppe, 225 So. Market. Variety Stores Rusk Variety Store, East Main street. The Mutual Five & Ten Cent Store, 217 East Main. Conkey'a Variety Store, East Main street. Industrial Hoopeston The Illinois Canning Company— Hoopeston Canning Company — Sprague-Sells Canning Machinery Corporation — Vermilion Malleable Iron Company — American Can Company — Iliff- Bruff Chemical Company — Hoopeston Ice & Cold Storage Company — P. H. Webber Company — A. W. Murray Company —Hoopeston Telephone Company — C. I. P. S. Company — C. & E. I. Railway — Nickle Plate Railroad — General Review of Minor Industries. It is the good fortune of few towns that number as small a population as Hoopeston to have as many worthwhile industrial enterprises as this city. Situated in the heart of the greatest and richest corn growing belt in the world, it is only natural that these industrial enterprises should in a large measure center around the canning industry and the making of machinery for that industry. That this is the case is proved conclusively by the fact that there are four great factories in Hoopeston, allied with the can- ning industry — The Illinois Canning Company, The Hoopeston Canning Company, The Sprague-Sells Canning Machinery Corpo- ration Factory and a branch of the American Can Company. While industry necessarily centers around these concerns, at the same time there are other and more diversified industrial efforts that aid in keeping the balance in the city and that keep the unemployment problem at a minimum the year around. Included among the major industries of this nature are The Vermilion Malleable Iron Company, The Iliff-Bruff Chemical Company, The P. H. Webber Company, The Hoopeston Ice & Cold Storage Com- pany, The A. W. Murray Company, The Central Illinois Public Service Company and The Hoopeston Telephone Company. Two great railroad lines pass through Hoopeston, The Chi- cago & Eastern Illinois railroad and the Nickle Plate Railroad. These two carriers provide ample facilities for the transporta- 87 tion of Hoopeston's industrial products to the markets of the world. Each of these industries is taken up in the following pages and covered as fully as is possible in order that a greater apprecia- tion of their magnitude may be had, not only by citizens of Hoopes- lon, but by residents of other cities to whom such knowledge may prove essential. THE ILLINOIS CANNING COMPANY The first business enterprise of any magnitude to be estab- lished in Hoopeston was the canning plant by S. S. McCall in the year 1875, two years before Hoopeston was incorporated as a city. From a primitive venture this factory has been brought to one of the greatest concerns of its kind in the country, today canning over a million cans of beans and corn annually. Stephen S. McCall was a New York m.an and came west on a prospecting trip for a site in which to locate a canning factory. Arriving in Hoopeston he became much enthused over the pros- pect for the establishment of such a factory in this city. The old building that had been used as headquarters for the Snell, Taylor & Mix Construction Company was taken over and con- verted into a factory and operations started. The venture proved a success from the first and grew by leaps and bounds until it was soon commanding attention in its field. In the year 1877, the business venture was incorporated un- der the name of the Illinois Canning Company, Inc., in the State of Illinois, and this name has remained unchanged to the present day, although the business has passed from the hands of the original founders. In the period between the year 1878, when the business was incorporated, and the year 1902, William Moore and James A. Cunningham, two of Hoopeston's pioneer citizens and who had been interested in the company from its beginning here, acquired the controlling interest. Of later years, the control of the com- pany passed from these citizens to the following officials and di- rectors, who guide its destinies at the present day : N. S. Cutright, Peoria, Illinois, President ; Isaac Miller Ham- ilton, Vice-President, Chicago, Illinois ; W. A. Miskimen, Secre- tary and Office Manager; R. R. Zook, Farm Manager and Assist- ant Office Manager; S. B. Cutright, Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer. Executive Committee, W. A. Miskimen, R. R. Zook, S. B. Cutright and E. M. Webster. Much of the product of the Illinois Canning Company that is canned annually, is grown under the direct supervision of its experts. Thousands of acres of land are owned or leased from year to year in the immediate vicinity of this city by the Com- 88 pany to insure a standard grade of corn and beans coming to the factory during the pack season. Although the company has enjoyed a steady and continual growth during the years from the date of its founding to the present day, perhaps the greatest improvement to come at any time took place during the first six months of 1925, when follow- ing out a program of building and improvement, decided upon several seasons before, and for which they had been quietly pre- paring, the company increased their warehouse facilities here by some 200,000 cases as well as affecting a much better arrange- ment of their factory and farm facilities. Included in this improvement was the locating of all farm- ing equipment at the Brigg's place, a 20-acre tract at Orange street and South Second Avenue. A storage implement house, 40x200 feet; a feed barn 60x225 feet; a stock barn 74x250 feet were built on this tract, which was surrounded with a seven foot chain link fence, with one main entrance gate on Orange street. A locker room and bunkhouse, also included in the improvement, were built just inside of the gate. This improvement left available the huge building on the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad, extending from Washington to Lincoln street for storage purposes and as a loading ware- house from which the product of the Illinois Canning Factory can now be loaded direct to waiting freight cars on this railroad, for shipment to the markets of the world. Purity and quality of the goods canned by The Illinois Can- ning Company have been maintained with a faithfulness and con- scientious fidelity to their reputation that has brought praise from all parts of the nation. The steady growth of the business, one of the most important of this city's industries, is the only testimonial needed to prove that quality. THE HOOPESTON CANNING COMPANY Three of Hoopeston's pioneer citizens, J. S. McFerren, A. H. Trego and A. T. Catherwood, in the year 1878, established The Hoopeston Canning Company, which was to prosper and grow almost from the day of its establishment to its present position as one of the largest and most important of Hoopeston's major industries. Upon the death of Mr. Catherwood in 1892, the two surviv- ing members of the firm assumed the entire interests of the big- industry and their heirs are the present owners and operators. Five years after the death of Mr. Catherwood, in 1897, J. R. Cuy- kendall, the efficient processor of the firm up to that time be- i ! ■ ' 1 Mnnrri^iTPirTrnr ^ : ', ■ •• ■ ' : ■ ' -' ' ■ '* "jffimm. ' '■'■■ : 1 ■„ :~-J : \'. - ■■••*.-.-• ' ; : ■•« f | 3EBBp^BBraB^fe.^ ; i ^"'dlSBill ! \ t^Pl§§& L__*~— tr- I ! ? i.' J i . i H • 'o ;' ! S f Q ' t.j ! '*C f o : \ Cfi ' \ VS-^ o • ' 33 ^ 1 P3 § 3 »•*. 3 ' ■ | OQ . o |^^^K^V«' ** '. o '2 ; "O p s VJ **■'■■. '■■*■' ;',"^f'*- .;'";•■ ... -, 1 ! ; | i ': ': ; ' I i ! ; ,' | j ■ 9Q care a junior partner and he remains today affiliated with The Hoopeston Canning Company. Although established in 1878, it was not until 1911 that it was found necessary for The Hoopeston Canning Company to in- corporate. Growth of the business in that year, however, made this step advisable and the industry was incorporated under the name of The Hoopeston Canning Company, and is at the present time known throughout the world under that name. A. H. Trego was the power behind the throne that managed the interests of The Hoopeston Canning Company and brought it to a position where it commanded attention of the leaders in the canning field of the nation. As the burden of his years became greater, A. H. Trego relinquished the major portion of these duties to his son, Edward F. Trego and upon the death of the father, Edward F., became the president of the company. How well he has conserved and multiplied the interests left in his hands by the company when his father relinquished his earthly duties, is testified to by the fact that The Hoopeston Canning Company today is in its best condition since its organization in 1878. Associated with Edward F. in the active management of affairs of the company are his two brothers, Walter Trego, a director of the Company and head of the office staff; and Gil- bert Trego, Field Manager. The Hoopeston Canning Company grows by far the major portion of its products, owning or leas- ing thousands of acres of land surrounding Hoopeston for this purpose. It is the charge of these that falls to the duty of Gil- bert Trego. One of the greatest honors to ever come to a Hoopeston citi- zen was given Edward F. Trego, head of The Hoopeston Canning Company, when at the Cincinnati Convention of Canners, held in February, 1925, he was elected President of the National Can- ners' Association. Previous to that time he had served as a vice- president of the national organization and was regarded as in line for the position, which carries with it vast responsibility and a multitude of duties. The choice of Edward F. Trego, as Presi- dent of the National Canners Association, however, met with the approval of canners throughout the nation, many of whom have expressed themselves as confident that the industry during the year 1925 was to exceed all previous records and the association prosper correspondingly under his leadership. The first half of the year has borne out that prophecy. The Hoopeston Canning Company in the years since its or- ganization has grown to many times the initial size of the venture established in 1878. Improvement has followed improvement until the huge factory buildings today cover a great space. Each improvement has been made with an eye to increasing the general efficiency of the industry as a whole in a manner that commands 91 the admiration of all who visit the factory. Its output for the 1924 season was 275,000 cases. Following are the present officials and directors: President and Manager, Edward F. Trego; Vice-President, D. J. McFerren; "Secretary and Treasurer, Walter Trego; Field Manager, Gilbert Trego. Directors: E. F. Trego, J. R. Cuykendall, William Mc- Ferren, D. J. McFerren and Walter Trego, THE SPRAGUE-SELLS CORPORATION This industry is another of those that center around the tanning industry of the nation and in size and degree of propor- tion among the leaders, not only in Hoopeston, but in the entire United States. Organized and established in Hoopeston in the year 1898, by Daniel G. Trench, the Sprague Canning Machinery Company for many years was one of Hoopes- ton's major industries that com- manded nation-wide attention. In his lifetime Daniel G. Trench ac- ccrrjplished things big in the de- velopment and manufacture of can- ning equipment of various kinds and was a dominant factor in the business that was known here as the Sprague Canning Machinery Company. in the year 1923 and the month of October came the an- nouncement of the organization of the S'prague-Sells Corporation, a joining of the names of two of the largest and most widely known canning machinery manufacturers in the country, an event that was to mean much to industrial Hoop- eston. The assets of the Sprague Canning Machinery Company were taken over by the Sprague- Sells Corporation at that time and Ogden S. Sells, President and General Manager came to Hoopeston to make his home. The Peerless Husker Company, of Buffalo, New York, owned and oper- ated by the Sells interests up to this time, continues to function as a separate plant of the corporation, although general sales Ogden S. Sells 92 offices for both the Peerless Husker Company and the Sprague- Sells Canning Machinery Company were combined at Chicago. The^ contact between the two firms is through the advertising, sales and service work, although with the control of both centered in the Sells brothers, Ogden S., Millar W., and Neal S., the closest eo-operation has been effected. The general sales offices of the Sprague-Sells Corporation are located in Hoopeston under the direct supervision of the Presi- dent, Ogden S. Sells. With the taking over of the Sprague Canning Machinery Company hy The Sprague-Sells Canning Machinery Corporation and its continuance under that name, signs of increased activity at the plant in Hoopeston soon became apparent. In the two years intervening since the merger, the business of the corporation has been greatly increased. Recognized as among the most progressive in the nation at the time of the con- solidation, the Sprague-Sells Corporation today is conceded to be the leader in the making of canning machinery in the nation, A significant fact that cannot be overlooked and that will give some idea of the size of the industry is that the payroll in Hoopeston averages better than $2,000 per day. Two hundred and sixty men and five women are employed at the present time, the greatest number in the history of the industry here. At the national convention of canners held at Cincinnati, Ohio, m February, 1925, The Sprague-Sells Corporation and the Peer- less Husker Company had the largest exhibit of machinery of any company in the nation. Not only was their exhibit the larg- est, but it included more new types cf machines developed and marks of progress in the canning machinery field than any other exhibit. Included among these were six machines entirely new to the trade. The six new machines developed at the factory during the past year are the Sprague-Sells Elevator Boot; the Sprague-Sells Class Type Pea Washer No. 2 ; the Sprague-Sells Wood Roll Inspec- tion Table or Conveyor; the Sprague-Sells Chainless Inspection Table; the Smith Continuous Agitating Cooker and Cooler, and the Gardner Svruper and Drainer. The Smith Continuous Agitating Cooker and Cooler is a re- vamping of the past cooker ideas of this Company employing the round boiler shell body which is so successful as a distributor and container of heat and permits a great rigidity of construction. Its high end discharge allows a very heavy body of water to be carried for water cooking and a very large body of water carried for cooling. The Gardner Syruper and Drainer represents about the last word in development of fruit handling machinery for the fancy fruit packer. The Drainer travels the can practically around a complete circle in an inverted position, allowing all the water to 94 drain off the fruit so that the cut-out degree of the syrup will be the same as when introduced. Their quick acting, non-bruis- ing valve will handle Bartlett pears, which are perhaps, the tenderest of all fruits that require syruping. The Sprague-Sells Pea Washer No. 2 is constructed along the general principles of the No. 1 Pea Washer, only the pan is wider and the machine has greater capacity. It is supplied with three screens of different perforations so that when operating same the screens can be changed very quickly for the various sizes of peas being run over the same. All that it is necessary to do to change the screen is to catch hold of two handles, push the screen to one side and lift it out of the oscillating frame, replacing the new screen in the same rqanner. This can be done almost instantly. The Sprague-Selh Elevator Boot is something entireb differ- ent from any type of boot put out before. It is small and com- pact, and has an arrangement of pockets that will not crush the peas. The Wood Roller Inspection Conveyor is built along the gen- eral lines of the company's iron roll table of 1924, with the ex- ception that a 4 1-2 inch diameter wood roll is used. This gives a greater spacing between the center of the rolls, which is an ad- vantage in turning large tomatoes, or other products of large diameter. The Sprague-Sells Improved Pulper is the result of a few machines sent out experimentally last year. It embodies the good points of the Sprague-Lowe Pulper in addition to other advantag- es, particularly the fact that the screen forms a complete cylin- der. This gives one the benefit of the paddles on the inside. The Chainless Inspection Table is a development of the last two or three years, but was shown at Cincinnati for the first time. It consists of a large nunlber of wooden flights resting en cams, all of which are fastened to two horizontal shafts. This arrangement gives the flights a wave motion and turn over any product on the table, making it very easy to inspect. Older models of the company on which fundamental improve- ments have been made were the Giant Mixer, the Six Cylinder Corn Cooker Filler, the Picking Table, the Lowe Type Finisher, the M. & S. Gallon Filler, and the Peerless Corn Cutter. The Peerless Corn Cutter has been redesigned so as to drive from a line-shaft parallel with the length of the building or cut- ter room ; its length reduced and the machine generally refined and made even more compact than in the past. It is perhaps the closest built piece of canning machinery as yet developed for the operation of a canner in which maght be called preparatory work, as the closeness of the workmanship together with the fineness of the finish has called forth many compliments from everyone who has seen the machine. 95 The Sprague-Sells Giant Mixer has the added improvements this year of a double brine tank of larger capacity, the drive of larger capacity, the drive bracket lowered to make the drive pul- ley more accessible, the steam pipes brought in at the side of the mixer below the corn line. The Sprague-Sells Picking Table this year is put out with a friction clutch pulley and a metal discharge hopper, in addition to some minor changes in its construction. The Sprague-Sells Finisher (Lowe Type) has a m ( ajor im- provement in the screen. This is an all metal screen with a margin around the edges where the break comes, which results in doubling its life. An additional improvement is in the method of holding the screen and the residue discharge. The Sprague-Sells Gallon Filler is now equipped with a non- ean-no fill attachment. Other machinery that is made by the Sprague-Sells and Peer- less Husker Co., include the Sprague-Sells Model No. 5 Cutter, Sprague-Sells Slim Knife Grinder, Sprague-Sells No. 7 Silker, Sprague-Sells Cuykendall Mixer, Sprague-Sells Glass Type No. 1 Washer, Sprague-Sells Conveyor (glass type), Sprague-Sells Blancher, the Sprague-Sells No. 1 Incline Scalder, Sprague-Sells Corer (Morgan Type), Sprague-Sells Hand Pack Filler, the Sprague-Sells Pumpkin Cutter (Geneva Type), Sprague-Sells Coil present a phasing picture. The main floor of the building is entered through a vestibule, 11 by 13 feet and up a few steps from the level of the portico. On each side of the vestibule is a cloak room 6 by 8, entered from the inside. The main floor is 53 feet north and south by 27 feet east and west. It is divided for convenience into three sections, the north division devoted to the children's reading room, the south to the adults reading room and the center to the entrance and delivery room. The large and handsome circular librarian's desk is situated directly in front of the entrance. Back of the desk is the section 18 by 27 feet devoted to book stands with capacity of 5,000 volumes. In the southeast corner of the main floor is the librarian's office, where the library committee also hold their meetings. At the corner of the reference room, facing the main room, 119 is a handsome drinking fountain of marble and gold bronze, bear- ing the inscription "In Memory of Francis C. Trego." It is ele- gant in design and finish and was presented by A. H. Trego, pres- ident of the library board, as a memorial to the late Mrs. Francis C. Trego who took a very active part in the inception of the li- brary' idea. Directly over the fountain is a bronze tablet 30 by 44 inches in size bearing the inscription, "The Hoopeston Library, founded by the Mary Hartwell Catherwood Club, A. D. 1898. Andrew Carnegie donor of the building. Alba Honeywell donor of the grounds, 1904." Each year since the establishment of the library has shown a growth not onlv in the number of books upon its shelves but in the number of borrowers. THE CITY HALL A modern brick structure erected at a cost of $5,600, houses the city offices, the police station, fire department head- quarters and the council chamber of the Board of Aldermen. The office of the water collector is on the first floor of this building, for the convenience of citizens who have business there and the second floor is given over to the council chamber, record vaults and an office room or ante chamber for the use of city officials. The record vaults are of fireproof construction, housing val- uable data, council minutes, etc., that have been collected since the founding of the city. Built during the administration of I. E. Merritt, as Mayor of Hoopeston, these vaults are a valuable adjunct to the city building, providing an excellent place for the safekeeping of records and papers of value to the city. The fire department quarters are used to house the big fire truck and other fire fighting paraphenalia of the volunteer fire company. The city prison, which occupies part of the upper floor space, has two steel cells, of the latest and most modern design, calcu- lated to safely hold any lawbreaker that is placed there by offic- ials of the law. Until the building of the Carnegie Library in Hoopeston, the City Hall also housed the library room, but with the removal of the library to its own quarters this room was turned into an anteroom for the council chamber and is still used as such. 120 THE CITY WATERWORKS Constructed in 1888, at a cost of $12,500, the Holly system of waterworks owned by the city is now estimated to be worth well over $100,000. With the growth of the city and increasing demand for water, improvements have been made at various times that have greatly increased the value, not only of the plant itself, but of the vast system of mains that underly the city and that carry the water for domestic and industrial use into every street within the corporate limits. During the past six years many improvements have been made at the waterworks, including the construction of a new reservoir and the sinking of a new well. Two great pumps in the best of condition, either of which is able to carry the entire load of ordinary use, leaving the other free for any emergency call, such as a big fire, etc., are part of the waterworks plant. These pumps have been tested in actual emergency and have been found to be one of the wisest investments ever made by the city. CITY SCHOOLS Three of Hoopeston's wards have school buildings erected there to care for the growing needs of education in the city. These building are the Honeywell, the first to be erected in Hoop- eston and the Maple and Lincoln street school buildings. In addi- tion to these, the Greer College building on the west side is used as a high school. Greer College was left as a gift to the city by John Greer, to be used for educational purposes, with A. H. Trego, J. S. McFer- ren and R. T. Miskimen as trus- tees. Of these trustees, Mr. Miskimen still serves in the capacity, although both of his two former colleagues in the trusteeship have passed be- yond. The Hoopeston city schools are headed by W. R. Lowery, as Superintendent, and during his able administration of their affairs have prospered and grown until they are known throughout the state as among the best for a city of Hoopeston's size in Illinois. Greer College 121 An efficient corps of teachers aid Superintendent Lowery and his officials in their task of educating Hoopeston's children during their first twelve years of school life — eight common school grades and four years of High school. The high school has for many years been an accredited institution under the system which permits students of first grade high schools to enter uni- versities without preparatory work. This is the highest honor that can be won by a small town high school and in placing the Hoopeston institution upon this basis, Superintendent Lowery and his teachers have accom- lished an object that is worthy of mention. At the head of and supervis- ing the work of the schools is the Board of Education, elected by the citizens of Hoopeston and consisting of a president ana six members. The present pres- ident of the Board of Education is Paul E. Weber and the mem- Fred E. Earel, W. C. Welty, Wai ter Trego, John 0. Lyons and Frank Preston. Need for a new gymnasium and auditorium at the-high school making itself felt acutely in the past several years, has led to plans being made by this school board for the construction of a new building to be used for this dual purpose and which it is ex- pected to have ready for use before the end of 1925. W. R. Lowery bers are : Harry H. Hamilton, Dr M'FERREN PARK McFerren Park, formerly the Hoopeston Fair Grounds, is the gift of J. S. McFerren to the city of Hoopeston. A delightful shaded area of thirty acres extent, well equipped, McFerren Park, is one of the mjost beautiful spots within the corporation. With the passing of the Hoopeston Fair Association and the closing of racing days in Hoopeston, the park was made a gift to Hoopeston by J. S. McFerren, the only proviso being that it was not to be used for purposes of profit. 122 McFerren Park Pavilion As the city has grown and the money has become available the park has been improved from time to time until it rivals those pleasure spots of much larger cities. A great pavilion which will seat more than 2,000 peo- ple is one of these improve- ments worthy of mention. This pavilion is the largest meeting place in Hoopeston and has been used for count- less purposes that have been of benefit to the city. Chief among these has been the chautauqua. A ladies' rest room is another improvement worthy of mention as is a zoo that has been founded and that is added to from time to time as the opportunity presents itself. It is as a picnic and play spot that McFerren Park excells any other meeting place in this section of the country, however. Great trees provide welcome shade from the hot sun. A swim- ming pool was constructed a few years ago and this is one of the most popular of sports during the summer months. Playground equipment has been added to the park at several times in the past and more is to be placed there in the future to provide safe sport for the children of the city. McFerren Park is the scene of the annual Fourth of July celebration, now given under the auspices of Ira Owen Kreager Post, No. 384, American Legion and which has grown to be the greatest celebration of this nature in Eastern Illinois and Western Indiana. CITY PARK The city park on North Market street is another delightful retreat for the citizens of Hoopeston residing in the northeastern section of the city. Although not of as great extent as McFerren Park, the North Park, as it is more commonly called, has beau- tiful shade trees, a circular band stand, where band concerts are given during the summer months and has other advantages that make it a delightful spot in which to spend leisure hours. Public spirited citizens have recently set out many beautiful flower beds in the North Park, that will greatly enhance its beauty. 123 UNION PARK Situated on Sixth street between McNeil and McCracken Avenues this park is perhaps the least known and used of the three in the city Beautiful trees here also provide welcome shade, but little attempt has been made as yet to beautify this spot, due to the fact that there is as yet little demand for another pleasure spot, sue has it will afford in the years yet to come. It is used as a picnic spot and by those fortunate few who live in the immedi- ate section as a place to spend their leisure hours. Both Union Park and City Park (North Park) were the gift of Alba Honey- well to the city of Hoopeston. FLORAL HILL CEMETERY On an elevation slightly higher than the surrounding country and just about a mile north of the city, lies Floral Hill Cemetery — the city of the dead — and one of the most beautiful in this section of the country. Floral Hill is the gift of Thomas Hoopes, pioneer resident to the city of Hoopeston, who donated $5,000 to the city for the purpose of purchasing and maintaining this property, under the control of a board appointed by the city council. Floral Hill is beautifully kept up and although it has sad as- sociations for many residents of Hoopeston, who have loved ones lying there, nevertheless its beauty is so great that it attracts hundreds of visitors who come to walk along its gravelled paths and view its beautiful flowers. Direct charge of Floral Hill lies in the hands of a cemetery superintendent, appointed by the mayor and responsible to that official and to the city council for the manner in which the ceme- tery is cared for. Hoopeston's Churches General Review — First Church Activities — "McCracken's Pulpit" — Organization of First Methodist Episcopal Church and Growth — The First Church of Christ — The First Presbyterian Church — The United Presbyterian Church — The Universalist Church — The First Baptist Church — St. Anthony's Catholic Church — The Society of Friends — The Christian Science Church — The Free Methodist Church — Summary. The church life, next to the home life of any city is one of the most important factors in the building of a community and it is significant in the history of Hoopeston that it was only a short time until the pioneer residents who followed the railroads to this vicinity or who were here when the railroads arrived, paused in their labors long enough to organize and conduct devo- tional exercises. It is also significant that as a result of the devout character of these pioneer builders of the city of the prairie, that from the time the city was incorporated until the present day, there never has been a saloon within the border of the town. There did at one time exist a saloon — outside of the corporate limits of the town — barred from entry, but this attempt to edge in with the liquor traf- fic was soon discouraged by those who had the reigns of govern- ment in their hands and it disappeared from Hoopeston's door. Religious services first held in Hoopeston were of the non- denominational character and were held at McCracken's store. There was no qualification for the preachers that were heard there, other than that he be able to talk on the Word. As the town grew and expanded and more of the people began to feel the need of religious instruction and worship, denominations began to form and from each of these as they were founded were developed the present large congregations and beautiful church homes that are one of the most valuable features of the city as a whole. So large have the congregations of the churches grown and so The M. E. Parsonage OOPESTON Methodism has provided a comfortable house for her ministers. The house is a combination — home for the minister and his family; study where the minister reads, thinks, plans, prepares his sermons and attends to a multitude of details: of- fice where the clerical work of the church is done by the secretary. Here the minister will see all who want to see him. Here the troubled, the needy, those with religious problems, and those who need spiritual guidance may come freely and receive such help as lies within his power to give. Here the members or adherents of the church are wel- c(iii) to drop in for a friendly chat. 127 <>ood is the general moral tone of the city that it has won for it- self the cognomen of "The Holy City" among other towns of the land. This name applied first in a spirit of scoffing was not re- sented by the citizens of Hoopeston, who in the years that have passed since it first was applied have grown exceedingly proud of it. The moral tone of the city has as a result greatly benefitted and today is as good as those old pioneers who so desired it could wish. THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH The Methodist Society, generally conceded to be among the first to be organized in Hoopeston came into existence in the year 1872 and was organized by the Rev. B. F. Hyde, of Rossville and Presiding Elder Preston Wood. Preaching services were first held at McCracken's Store, as in the hurry and bustle of the countless activities of building the city it took some time to get matters started in the town, so that preachers could have regular places for teaching the Word. Methodist Episcopal Church The circuit at that time included Schwartz, East Lynn and Antioch, the Rev. A. H. Alkire being pastor. In 1873, the Rev. 128 W. Lang was pastor and J. W. Phillips, Presiding Elder. Dick school house and Bridgeman school house were added as regular appointments. In 1874, J. Muirhead was pastor, his pastorate continuing three years. During this time the church that was to serve the Methodist congregation up to the time of the present beautiful structure was commenced. This church building cost $3,300. In 1877, the Rev. H. M. Hoff was appointed to this circuit and served for several years. . In that year the membership of the Methodist church was 86. The Sunday school in 1877 numbered 75 members on its roster and E. B. Row was the superintendent. Some idea of the immense growth of the Methodist Church is gained when it is known that this denomination at the present clay numbers close to 500 members and that the Sunday School has at times reached the 1,000 mark. The Methodist church today is the strongest in point of numbers of any denomination in the city. It was during the pastorate of the Rev. Parker Shields in 1896, now superintendent of the Anti-Saloon League of the state of Missouri that the present beautiful church edifice was complet- ed at a cost of $23,000. Prominent among the affairs of the city in every line of en- deavor a number of the names of the men who are the leaders in affairs of the Methodist Church appear. Among these are I. E. Merritt, L. W. Singleton and George E. Evans. All three of these men have served as offi- cials of the Methodist church in Hoopeston and are among its best supporters. The present pastor of the Hoopeston Methodist Church is the Rev. C. H. Young, who has been here for less than one year at the present time. The Rev. Young succeeded the Rev. Har- ris G. Beck, who served the Hoopeston pastorate for a period of three years before accepting a call to the Methodist Episcopal Church at Mattoon, Illinois, a larger charge. Rev. C. H. Young 129 FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST The First Church of Christ was organized in June, 1873, by Elder Rollie Martin with twelve members. J. M. R. Spinning and J. S. Shirley were the first Elders. Elders Roe and A. R. Owens were successive pastors for this young church. The first church building was erected in 1874 on Honeywell avenue at 646, the present residence of J. H. Jones. The structure was 36x50, with a steeple, and cost about $1,800. Later Elders were W. J. Hawkins and George Chamberlin, F. B. Bird, S. F. Miller, John Williams, J. A. Holton and H. C. Green. Elder Austin was one of the first preachers; T. L. Stipp was another. Church of Christ In 1885, the church building w r as moved from, Honeywell ave- nue to the site on the corner of Main and Fourth Streets, now- occupied by the Dallstream Apartments. In 1892, under the lead- ership of Brother Jim Lester as pastor, the church took on new life and during that year the membership was nearly doubled, having 255 at the end of the year. Brother Lester continued as pastor during the years 1893 and 1894, and the church continued to grow. Brother Rohrer served as pastor in 1895 ; Brother J. S. Clements in 1896 ; and Brother Chasman in 1897. Rev. R. H. Robertson was called in 1898 and served during: 130 1899 and 1900. In 1899 during Brother Robertson's time, the present modern structure was built on the northeast corner of Main and Fourth Streets, at a cost of $30,000. The church was dedicated January 28, 1900. Rev. G. W. Thomas served as pastor in 1901 ; Rev. W. O. Lappin in 1902, 1903 ; Rev. L. I. Mercer served in 1904, 1905, 1906 ; Rev. L. R. Hoteling 1907, 1908; Rev. H. F. Kelsh, 1909, 1910; Rev. An- drew Scott, 1911, 1912, 1913, 1914; Rev. John P. Givens, 1915, 1916, 1917, 1918; Rev. Eugene M. Smith, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923; Rev. E. F. Winkler, 1924 to March, 1925. The church has grown through these years until the present membership reaches 600 members and has a budget of $6,000 yearly. During the pastorate of the beloved Eugene Smith, on May 1, 1921, the Bible School had an attendance of 683, being the larg- est Sunday school ever held in the history of the church in IToop- eston. The church has just called Rev. E. S. DeMiller, of Elwood, Indiana — the pastorate now being vacant. The present officers of the church are: Elders W. P. Peirce, W. L. Townsley, Ralph R. Townsley, Harlin E. Vines and P. H. Youngblood. THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Numbered among the major denominations in Hoopeston, the First Presbyterian Church is at the same time one of the most active in the city. The First Presbyterian church was organized on May 3, 1872, by the Rev. A. L. Brooks and the Rev. W. A. Steele, a com- mittee of the Bloomington Presbytery. The old Hibbard House, which stood at the corner of Penn street and Second Avenue was the scene of the momentous event and there were eighteen mem- brs at that time. E. R. Strauss, W. Maxwell and L. W. Ander- son were the first elders. The Rev. Steele, one of the organizers, was the first pastor, preaching one-third of the time for the first year. The Rev. M. Lynn then supplied the pulpit for one year and in the fall of 1877, the Rev. A. L. Knox, formerly of Heyworth, was employed to preach. The Rev. Knox preached in Hoopeston on Sunday morn- ings and evenings and in the afternoons at Victor and Ross school houses. The church numbered thirty-six members in the year 1879 and in that year yet had no house of worship, mjeetings being held in Clark's Hall. In the year 1881, a frame church was built at the corner of 131 Penn and Market streets in which the congregation worshipped until the year 1900, when this building was removed and the present beautiful brick and stone church, one of the most beauti- First Presbyterian Church ful in the city of Hoopeston, erected at a cost of $21,000. The Rev. Edward J. Regennas was pastor of the church at that time. Each year since the dedication of the present beautiful church home has shown a steady increase in the membership and activities of this church. Its Sunday school is one of the largest of the major denominations in Hoopeston. A men's brotherhood is an auxiliary of the church that has a large mem- bership and that is increasingly active in its affairs. The Rev. S. Howard Smith is the present pastor of the church. THE UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH The United Presbyterian church was organized in May, 1872, by the Rev. J. D. Whitham, who lived at that time at Sugar Creek, near Rankin. The wave of migration in this section to the new town at the intersection of the railroads brought many pioneers from Paxton and the Rev. Whitham, collected these to- gether into a congregation of twenty-nine members, with T. C. McCaughey, G. M. Kirkpatrick and R. M. Knox as ruling elders. The Rev. R. C. Wyatt served the church for two years as the stated supply. At first the meetings were held in the only J 32 synagogue in the new town, McCracken's store. The Rev. R. C. Hamilton, of Ohio, preached to the congregation for three months, The Rev. E. D. Campbell, the Rev. J. H. Gibson and the Rev. G. W. Torrance successively labored here and were followed by the Rev. T. A. Houston, the supply for the charge in the year 1879. The first church was built at a cost of $1,500 while the Rev, Gibson was in charge of the activities here in the year 1876. At that time the membership of the church numbered forty-eight persons. This first church occupied a site at the corner of Third and Davis streets. 1 2ft United Presbyterian Church In 1889 the congregation of the United Presbyterian church invested about $12,000 in a fine new brick church at the corner of Market street and Honeywell Avenue. The structure is the present home of the church in Hoopeston and has an excellent parsonage adjoining it. The present pastor of the Hoopeston United Presbyterian church is the Rev. J. S. Hill, who came to Hoopeston to take up his work here in 1922 and who has satisfactorily and efficiently conducted the charge since that year. 133 THE UNIVERSALIST CHURCH The Universalist Church of Hoopeston was organized in August, 1882, by the Rev. T. S. Guthrie, of Springfield, Ohio. Thirty-two members of this denomination had come to make their home in Hoopeston and when their numbers became known, it was determined to form a branch of the denomination in this city — that was later to take its place among the major denomina- tions of Hoopeston. ■H iHs "^^^n*2aT'^JH '&$Bk »l&v\^ *— — iim^^"^" Universalist Church Four years later, in 1886, the present beautiful house of wor- ship, at the corner of Market and Penn streets, was erected, which has served the growing congregation until the present day. The church home is among the most beautiful in Hoopeston and a commodious parsonage for its ministers is also maintained on East Washington street. The church at the present day has a strong membership, and numbers some of Hoopeston's most influential and progressive citizens among its members. The present pastor is the Rev. Carl A. Poison and in the two years that he has served the Hoopeston 134 congregation the church has steadily grown in prestige and mem- bership. An auxiliary woman's organization, the Clara Barton Guild, fs in a flourishing and prosperous condition. The Men's Brother- hood, the Universalist Comrades, is among the most influential men's brotherhoods in the city and meets once a month at the church. This organization, during the pastorate of the Rev. Pol- son, has become noted for the many orators of national fame and reputation that have come here to take part in its programs. THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH The organization of the First Baptist church in Hoopeston in March, 1873, had its inception in a series of meetings held by the Rev. G. T. Willis, in a school house three miles southeast of the city. There were six constituent members, of which the Baptist Church Rev. Willis and D. H. Chapmjan were two. The latter was elected deacon and clerk, offices he held for many years. The Baptist denomination soon attracted many members to its meetings and outgrowing their quarters it was decided to 135 build a new church. This church was completed and dedicated in January, 1882. The Baptist church of today is a beautiful church house and one that well merits the large attendance that it receives. The present pastor is the Rev. Lester Boyd, ST. ANTHONY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH The Roman Catholic church of Hoopeston became a distinct- ly local organization in the year 1877 and their first house of worship in this city was built in 1877. The Rev. Fr. M. A. Man- ville was appointed as the first resident pastor and in 1898 he built the first Catholic rectory in Hoopeston. This parsonage was built at a cost of $1,200. First Catholic Church in Hoopeston The present church was built in 1907 at a cost of $35,000 and in 1922 the present rectory was completed. The present rectory is valued at $12,000. St. Anthony's church is among the wealthiest in Hoopeston. Two lots at the corner of South Third street and East Lincoln streets are owned by the church in addition to 160 acres of land one and one-half miles north of Hoopeston. The church property at the present day is valued at over $100,000. * Since the year 1903 when the Rev. Fr. Fred Gahlman came to Hoopeston as its pastor St. Anthony's church has prospered and grown exceedingly. Each year have found new faces within 136 its church circle as new members of this faith have sought Hoop- eston as a honte and St. Anthony's church as the place to supply their spiritual needs. THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (Quakers) There were representatives of the Friends in Hoopeston from the laying out of the new town. Joseph M. Satterwhait was one of the original proprietors of the town. In 1872, he built a commodious home, corner of Third and Penn streets, into which he and his wife, Isaac T. Lukens and wife and Miss Edith Mullen moved. Here, in this new home, the first meetings were held, which were continued, according to the rules and discipline of the Friends, twice a week — first day and fifth day — for a year. In 1873, R. M. Lukens and wife joined the representatives of that faith here. Mr. Lukens had a building erected at the corner of Third and Main street and arranged it for a meeting house. His proposition to the Friends to occupy this met with general ap- proval. It was here, in the fall of 1873 that the first public meet- ings of the "Richland Meeting of Friends" were held. In 1883 the little Quaker church at the corner of Third and Washington streets was built and regular meetings were held there for many years. In 1900 the membership had grown from the original 19 to 26 and this increase continued for a few years. Although there are still members of the Friends in Hoopes- ton, descendents of those pioneers who founded the church here, no active church is maintained. THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH The Christian Science Society of Hoopeston was organized in September, 1898, with fourteen original members, by Mrs. Mary E. Conklin, of Los Angeles, California. Sunday and Wed- nesday evening services were for a time held at the home of members, then in the Friend's meeting house, until assembly rooms were secured in the McFerren Block, where the meetings were held until the completion and dedication of their church in 1902. In September, 1900, the society was re-organized and incor- porated under the name of "First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Hoopeston." The First reader was Miss Stella F. Sabin; Second Reader, Mrs. Cornelia H. Catherwood. A public reading room 137 containing Christian Science Literature was opened and maintain- ed. Completion of the present church edifice in 1902 marked the steady growth of the society in Hoopeston, a growth that has been continued until the present day. THE FREE METHODIST CHURCH The Free Methodist Church of Hoopeston was organized in 1893 by Rev. D. S. Moore and Rev. A. Maker, with ten charter members. This denomination has a comfortable house of wor- ship, erected in 1896, at the corner of Third street and Mc- Cracken Avenue, where regular services are held. Included among the sects that have passed out, of existence in Hoopeston is the United Brethren Church of Hoopeston that was organized in 1896. Regular services were held for over a year at the homes of members of which there were five. The Rev. S. C. Allman ministered to this congregation, which passed out of existence with the absorption of its membership by other churches of the miajor denominations here. The Salvation Army for many years maintained a local or- ganization in Hoopeston, resulting from a series of tent meetings held here during the summer of 1901. Later these meetings were discontinued and no active branch of the Salvation Army is now maintained in Hoopeston. Each of the churches of the major denominations have large and active Sunday schools, Young Peoples' Association, that are affiliated with the Township and County organizations; Ladies Aid and Missionary Societies and Men's Brotherhoods, according to their denominational customs. "The Cold New Year" By Ol' Settler ROBERT F. COOPER March, 1925, All Rights Reserved. Hoopeston, Illinois. The coldest day that I ever knew Was January one, in sixty-two ; An' no old timler livin' 'round here Has ever forgotten that cold New Year. When the sun came up and bust into view It was so all-fired cold, it had most turned blue; And the air was congealed an' so thick if you please, It hed to be thawed to breathe it with ease. An' the candle I lit as I hopped from the bed, Hed it's flame frozen solid 'fore it turned red; An' when I tried kindlin' a fire, I thought we were lost, For the slumbering hot embers were covered with frost. An' when I stirred up the embers an' poked 'em about, I hed to thaw out the pipe 'fore the smoke could get out ; An' when I had the ol' kitchen stove boomin' red hot, The icicles were still hangin' from the oP coffee pot. An' when I went to the door to put the key in the lock, The keyhole was frozen as hard as a rock ; An' I had to take a flatiron an hit it a jolt, 'Fore I could put in the key to turn over the bolt. An' when I opened the door an' went outside, 01' Tower frozen stiff was the first thing I spied. An' I carried him in an' laid him on the hot stove An' it was an hour or more 'fore he could move. 'An when he thawed out, there came a deep roar, Of barks he had barked the evening before. For the sounds were all frozen, an' the clock on the shelf Ticked for three days, 'fore it caught up with itself. An' when I went out to milk after breakfast was o'er It hed frozen the horns off the cows, a dozen or more, An' I hed to build a fire an' heat their udders red hot, 'Fore a drap of m,ilk could be got. An' when the milk was thawed so it came in a stream, I took in ten buckets of pure ice cream; An' the chickens were hopping about on icicle legs, An' the hens that survived, laid hard frozen eggs. An' the horses stood rigid in well sheltered stall, With jaws frozen shut, 'til they couldn't eat at all; An' the hogs were all frozen from tail to ring, An' never thawed out 'til the following spring. An' the deer on the plains were a pitiful sight, Where they stood on the prairie frozen upright; An' we left 'em preserved in the sheltered windbreaks, Where we went each day for nice frozen steaks. An' the thermometers went down as far as they could go, An' busted through their bottoms at seventy below ; An' the record of that day stands out alone, As the coldest New Year that ever was known. An' the settler that told us, said he'd heer'n tell, That it was the coldest day ever known in — well Every place known to common Illinois folks Who recognize facts, an' jokes as jokes. ADVERTISEMENTS Ira Owen Kreager Post, No. 384 American Legion HOQPESTON, ILLINOIS "For God and Country, we associate ourselves to- gether for the following purposes : To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order, to preserve the memories and incidents of our association in the great war; to foster and perpetuate a one hun- dred percent Americanism ; to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation ; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses ; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will on earth ; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of Justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual happiness. " «'A LIVE POST WITH A LIVE PROGRAM" C. & EL I. (Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railway) North South Since 1871 Hoopeston's principal means of communication Ten fast trains daily provide the utmost in convenient, on-time service between Chicago and Hoopeston. Hun- dred-pound rails — rock ballasted, double and triple track — powerful locomotives — modern equipment and cour- teous employes. Luxurious through daily trains over the famous Dixie Route to Nashville, Chattanooga, Atlanta, and Jackson- ville. Through service also to Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile and along the scenic Gulf Coast to New Orleans. Daily service to St. Louis affording direct connections to all points in the Southwest. C. M. RAY, Ticket Agent, HoopesU BATCHELDER, SPRAGUE-SELLS Corporation Manufacturers ctf PEA, COfcN. TOMATO and FRUIT Canning Machinery Hoopeston, Illinois L SAFETY SECURITY FIRST NATIONAL BANK HOOPESTON. ILLINOIS SOUNDNESS SERVICE hoopeston Canning Company Established 1878 Packers of Fancy Sweet Corn Production 350,000 Cases Yearly Established 1878 The Illinois Canning Co Packers of Fancy Sugar Corn an d " JOAN OF ARC " Red Kidney Bean s Hoopeston, Illinois Lorraine Theatre McFerren Opera House Hoopeston, Illinois Hoopeston, Illinois Collum & Orr Theatres Blackstone Theatre Edna Theatre Diviiiht. Illinois iiibson City, Illinois The Chronicle * Herald Published Daily by The Aldrich Printing & Publishing Co. Since 1872 Hoopeston's Community Newspaper United Press Direct Wire Service "First in Hoopeston" Large Job Plant in Connection Modern Machinery and Expert Workmanship insures speedy and capable handling of your printing needs Reliability Plus Service 201 East Main Street. Phone No. 3 The Central Clearing House of Intelligent Activities C o-operation |— | armon y /\ mbition M unicipal genefits Efficiency R ight-Living O bligation F idelity C ommunity Q rganization |\/| erchandising ^ai^agement Enterprise Results ^ q ncejrtration Ent husiasm Are You Helping Support the Torch of Civic Consciousness? The Illif-Bruff Chemical Company Manufacturers of SNOW WHITE PHOSPHATE and Other Chemical Products Hoopeston, Illinois Those who ELECTRIFY attain EFFICIENCY Central Illinois Public Service Company Hoopeston National Bank Pres. I. E. Merritt V. Pres. J. H. Dyer Cashier, L. W. Singleton Ass't. Cash. E. E. Yates Coy Burton G. H. Finch Alma Yates Edith Kellogg Interest Paid on Time Deposits Careful Attention Given to All Business Safety Deposit Boxes for Rent Courteous Treatment to All Come and See Us