NEWS: Items from the Altoona Tribune, February 4, 1919, Blair County, PA
Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Jessica Orr
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CALLED TO HUSBAND'S BEDSIDE
Mrs. Harry T. Stong, Left Last Evening for Camp Travis, Tex.
The condition of Rev. H. T. Stong, former pastor of the Fifty-eighth
Street Methodist church, and chaplain in the U. S. service, has become most
critical, and his wife, Mrs. H. T. Stong, received a telegram to come at
once. Chaplain Stong, according to a telegram dated Saturday, January 25,
had developed acute rapid tuberculosis. He is at Camp Travis, San Antonia,
Tex., where he had been assigned for duty.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 1
TOWN MEETING AUDIENCE HOOTS FLICK'S ATTEMPT TO SUPPLANT CHAIRMAN
Lawyer-Orator Is Forced to Sit Down After His Effort Fails-Other Speakers
Upbraid Lakemont Man for Striving to Control Citizen's Session
Filtration Plant Suggested as Corrective Measure for Impure Water - Many
Recommend Use of Riggle's Gap Water - Bob's Creek Project Is Financial
Impossibility, Says H. K. McCauley - Complaints Made About Sulphuric Acid -
Dr. Findley Contends It Isn't Injurious
Frankly peeved when his five minutes for reviewing history expired, E. H.
Flick, lawyer-orator, commanded 300 citizens at the second town hall meeting
last evening to name their own chairman, but was laughed and hooted to his
chair when less than a score of men arose to support his attempt to control
the session.
Successive speakers caustically denounced the Flick effort to subsidize
the open meeting. The man from Lakemont apparently felt the affect, as he
lost a part of his loquaciousness, making but two other comparatively brief
remarks during the evening. The tenor of his statements, reflecting on Mayor
Rhodes' ability to properly conduct the meeting, won the barrister only a
few henchmen.
Aside from the threatened thrills planned by Mr. Flick, the citizens
devoted their attention to the water question - more, better and purer
water. The project of metering was not considered at such length as during
the initial discussion a week ago. But a larger supply, what streams are
available and filtration of water now piped to the city - all these were
earnestly discussed, with particular stress being laid on the filtration
suggestion.
METERING MERELY FIRST STEP
Mayor Rhodes opened the meeting, announcing the usual five minute limit
for all speakers, and welcoming the citizens in so large a representative
group. He said City Manager Hinkle would submit a few facts and figures
referring to the water question.
"Council knows the water supply is inadequate," prefaced the manager, "and
that it is not all that is to be desired in the way of purity. We know it
has mine drainage. The state health department insists on chlorine
treatment and we can't stop it.
"Council's idea is that metering is only the first step. When the milkman
places two bottles of milk on your door-step while you sleep, suppose a
neighbor comes along and steals one of them? Would you object? Certainly.
That's the water question in a nutshell. Your neighbors are allowing it to
run away - stealing it, to put it harshly but truly, while you sleep.
WATER MUST BE FILTERED.
"In the next ten or twelve years, all state health departments in the
nation will require all water to be filtered," continued Mr. Hinkle. "It's
coming to that, so the question of a filtration plant for Altoona must be
considered. But so must the conservation idea.
"To get more water there are various ways. One is to complete the present
system. Finishing Lake Altoona will cost $450,000; a filtration plant
completely equipped to treat eight million gallons of water daily, $500,000
more; and the laying of a 20-inch main on the east side, at $45,000, will
bring the total expense to $995,000.
"Building a reservoir at Riggle's Gap run will give us 225,000 gallons of
water, at a cost of $350,000, and six miles of 16-inch pipe-line will be
possible when we spend $210,000 more, or a total of $510,000. The Bob's
Creek reservoir could be created for probable $1,000,000 and twenty-six
miles of pipe-line, $1,040,000 in addition, or an approximated total of
$2,040,000.
"Installation of meters would cost $215,000, the quarterly reading of them
about $1,500, and the yearly maintenance, $7,500. The revenue required for
the water department now is $80,133 for sinking fund and interest; $22,365
for depreciation; $75,000 for operation, and $30,000 for yearly extension,"
concluded the manager.
CROWD BAFFLES FLICK.
Mr. Flick obtained the floor. He immediately took up the meter question,
reviewing what Mr. Hinkle had said, and was skeptical about certain phases.
He doubted if 51 cents would keep a meter in annual repair. "Where would
your get a plumber who'd work so cheap?" scoffed the lawyer.
"Remember if you have meters, you pay twice what you do now and only get
half the amount of water," warned the Lakemonter. "Water is as free as air.
It should cost you no more. Thousands of gallons waste annually over the
spill-way. Bob's Creek is forty miles away, but you've got Riggle's Gap.
Isn't it better to spend enough to have water twelve months, instead of nine
each year? Altoona has ten streams to choose from, but the worst one-
Kittanning Point, was selected," charged Mr. Flick.
Mayor Rhodes informed him that the talking limit had elapsed. Mr. Flick
continued expounding. He was called sharply to order. "We don't have to
observe any parliamentary rules here," shouted the lawyer, facing the
audience. "Let's name our own chairman. We're called here to discuss water
and we're going to do that. Why should we let the mayor overrule out
objections?"
The mayor quietly asked the speaker to be seated. Still, the lawyer
refused. "Let all stand up who will support me in this move to select a
chairman," commanded the irate orator. About fifteen men hesitated to their
feet. Yells of "Sit Down and "Shut Up" resounded through the room. And,
Mr. Flick, giving the jeering throng the once-over, sank into his chair and
obeyed the will of the majority.
Harry S. Parker spoke briefly on the virtues of meters, citing facts from
his own experience. Dr. H. O. Jones, a Third ward resident, said only
residents of the hill districts lack water for domestic use or for fighting
fire. He declared this was not due to an insufficient supply, but to the
fact that people in the low sections emptied the Oakton reservoir frequently
at night, by letting the water waste away through the faucets. He asserted
that the city may get more water, but the hill district consumers will not,
until the waste problem is solved.
MR. LAFFERTY APPLAUDED
Commissioner John P. Lafferty, acting as vice-chairman, when the mayor had
to attend another meeting, told the citizens present that the demonstrations
at both meetings indicated tax-payers thought council was arrayed against
them, and install meters despite the public's sentiment.
"That's absolutely wrong," Mr. Lafferty said. "We're here to do what you
want us to do. We're not the city - we're only your representatives. Let
us be real citizens of Altoona and talk for our rights. I've always been
opposed to meters - up to last summer when I learned of the wasteful
methods. But if you don't want meters, say so. We're ready and willing to
serve you. At the proper time, if you want more water, vote a loan and
we'll do the rest." He sat down amid a tumult of applause.
Patrolman Harry Ingram was the next speaker. "I think Altoona needs more
water and less whiskey," he stated. "I don't approve the stand taken by a
member of the Blair County Bar association, who tries to stampede the
meeting. We're here to do some constructive work. For God's sake, don't
let us go into a stampede."
Manuel Guiterrez, Paul Kreuzpointner and G. C. Hoenstine spoke for brief
periods. The former advised raising water rents 50 cents monthly, and avoid
borrowing money. The second speaker made various suggestions and Hoenstine
characterized the city supply of water, as sewer water, which he was tired
of.
Mr. Hinkle interposed a remark that Riggle's Gap alone would not be
sufficient, if a greater supply was considered. Attorney Flick interrupted
with figures about the flow, which, he averred, came from Colonel Campbell.
"One of you is wrong," insinuated the lawyer. The manager ignored the
remark.
CITIZENS EXPRESS VIEWS
A. D. Goolick, a meter-user, wanted to know why he had to pay $8 for his
meter, and now, when the city plans the general installation, why were
citizens to be exempt from that charge?
E. V. Vetter urged that the city reservoirs be cleaned occasionally. He
favored metering homes where consumers wasted the water, and so, compel them
to pay for all they used. He said he had to pay $8 yearly, and didn't like
paying for what somebody else wasted.
S. J. Warner opined there was plenty of water around the city and asked
why didn't council get some of it. A communication from Harry Slep, of the
First ward, who was unable to attend, was read by City Clerk Walter J.
Hamor. Mr. Slep asked two questions:
"First - If the gas and electric light and power companies would furnish
our citizens with their product without measuring it out to their patrons
and submit bills for consumption on a fixed general schedule, how long would
they exist?
"Second - If our water bureau spent $50,000 or more for additional water,
how could the city pay this sum unless water rents were increased? And would
citizens receiving a metered supply be doubly taxed while consumers who do
not have meters be allowed to continue the wholesome waste?
"The water department has given our city sufficient service, from the days
of the late Superintendent Gailey down to the present time, notwithstanding
the unjust criticism of a few citizens at the last meeting. Give the
present administration a chance to conserve the water supply by installing
meters."
URGE FILTRATION PLANT.
D. G. Myers said, "This is a business proposition, gentlemen, pure and
simple. Every citizen is interested in it. Likewise I think the mayor, the
manager and council should get us more water."
"Altoona must come to the filtration plant plan sooner or later. If the
bacteriologist comes and tells you there are bugs or whatever you want to
call them, in the water, what are you going to do about it? Get a
filtration plant. Meters will cost a half million in ten years. Then the
money is gone, but where?"
The speaker complained of a lack of water in his district four days last
week, and the smell could be detected a yard away from the spigots. "Give
us what we want, and I'm sure you'll pay for it, dollar for dollar, but I
object to throwing money away."
Dr. C. V. Hartzell deplored the presence of sulphuric acid in the water.
"No one has said anything about the depreciation it causes to pipes, he
explained. "We're coming to concentrated sulphuric acid. Let's get another
source of water. We must have pure water. The hell's broth from Sugar Run
is what we're putting into our stomachs, and it will give us no
concentration, if we get a new source."
H. E. House urged that the city go to Bob's Creek or Riggle's Gap for
water. "Get the water to Altoona. We must have something to depend on. If
we must spend the money, let's spend it where we'll get returns," he
implored.
J. Heller declared the meeting last Monday night looked to him like a
Democratic caucus, and a leader's attempt to sway the crowd. He asked the
commissioners to get pure water, so the people wouldn't flee the city and go
to the suburbs, like rats from a ship.
"NIGGER IN WOODPILE"
"I think there's a nigger in the woodpile somewhere," hinted John
O'Donnell, "about this meter business. The man with a meter will save a
little money, but the meter costs more. The meter is not the solution.
Many people have stomach trouble. I have it and I don't drink liquor, so it
must be the water. Get that stuff out of the reservoirs and give us pure
water."
Mr. Lafferty resented the insinuation. "I trust as a body of gentlemen,
we'll have no more insinuations about a 'nigger-in-the-woodpile.' We're
here trying to do our part," said the commissioner.
Dr. J. D. Findley said there was no pure water in the state any more,
because of its great development naturally. "Automobiles take people around
watersheds and they make the health unsafe. There isn't enough sulphuric
acid to hurt any one, in the water. It is hard on certain pipes.
"The only solution for Altoona is to filter the water, and then if want to
increase your supply, do it. If you authorize the spending of money, why
not get a filtration plant, and then get meters. It's true you'll pay more
for water by metering it, but you'll have more. We have as good water here
as any community in the state, where it is not filtered."
George Marsh asserted his opposition to meters. "People are kicking about
more and purer water. I suppose they're kicking because the whiskey is
going to be taken from us, and then we'll need more water. And it must be
pure, they say. Altoona used to have the best water in the state, and all
these grey-haired and baldheaded men here have grown up on it, and we heard
nothing about it being impure."
MR. MCCAULEY'S PLAN.
H. K. McCauley, formerly of the board of city water commissioners,
declared the city needs good, pure water for both domestic and commercial
uses. He cited instances in Winnipeg, Can., and Memphis, Tenn., where the
water question was solved by metering.
"You can build as many reservoirs as you like, but not till citizens are
compelled to install pipes that won't freeze and meters are adopted will the
question be solved. Bob's creek is a financial impossibility, as the city
hasn't the borrowing power to make it possible. As for pure water, Dr.
Findley has told us about that. We can filter water safely because we know
the sources are pure, so whatever comes into them can be eliminated."
William Garrity said the water waste wasn't due to running spigots alone,
as frozen pipes caused trouble and firemen used much water in the city and
that chlorine affected the pipes and created leaks.
Mr. Flick resumed his discussion, saying the city permitted Millville and
other paying territory to get away from it and only the hill districts are
left. He concluded by advocating the use of Riggle's Gap water, and "We'll
pay for it," he said.
Dr. Findley asked if he knew that Allegheny Water company's supply had
been treated with chlorine for two years, the same as city water. The
lawyer parried the question, saying he wasn't talking about that. Mr.
Lafferty asked him to take a chair, since his second time limit was passed.
Mr. McCauley explained the city's purchase of Riggle's Gap, saying it was
for a high-service system. He urged that the upper Kittanning reservoir be
cleaned thoroughly, as it had not been for about thirty years, when a leak
developed. He said he wasn't in favor of metering the city all at once, but
at the rate of 1,000 yearly.
S. J. Warner inquired about leaves in Lake Altoona, and said they caused
the stench.
HEALTH OFFICER TALKS.
City Health Officer I. B. Crilly defined the use of chlorine in the water,
saying three pounds was used to every million gallons. He stated not one
filtration plant in the country had water as good or as pure as the raw
Altoona water. He urged the cleaning of the reservoirs and watersheds.
Charles Thompson asked if the city water was so pure why did Ninth warders
carry water from the Twelfth ward, where Allegheny water was available?
Joseph McAleer urged the completion of Lake Altoona and the paying for it
by borrowing the money from banks and paying it back at the rate of $40,000
yearly.
John P. Stouch, formerly city commissioner, was the last speaker, as the
municipal timepiece boomed on 10 o'clock. "I'm in favor of metering, but
with 470,000 gallons of water going to waste over the spill-ways, I think we
ought to prepare to use that first. We must have more water. No matter
what you do there is that question of a larger supply.
"It will cost a third more to build Riggle's Gap reservoir than to
complete Lake Altoona. There is no railroad out there and you'll have to
haul your material four miles. Then you only have 240,000 gallons of water
instead of a million more which you'd derive from finishing Lake Altoona."
The meeting then adjourned until next Monday evening at the same opening
hour - 8 o'clock.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 1 and 8
TYRONE TOPICS
FEBRUARY MEETING OF TYRONE COUNCIL
Will Make a Community Room in Municipal Building Vacated by Red Cross
Tyrone borough council held its February meeting last evening, with
President Stanley and Messrs. Acklin, Fisher, Wolfgang, Ginter, Leitzell,
Sprankle and Waple present. The journal of the previous meeting was read by
Secretary Harklerode and approved. The report of the borough treasurer
showed a balance of $102.04 as being overdrawn and due treasurer. The light
and water account shows a balance of $2,045.08, with the balances in the
various sinking funds as follows: Sinking fund No. 1, $2,567.73; No. 2,
$2,589.10; No. 3, $7,391.81; No. 4, $2,382.34; No. 5, $2,160.70; No. 6,
$1,907.72. The report of tax collector gives collected on the 1917
duplicate in January, $91.01, and on the 1918 duplicate, $361.97.
Burgess Beaston's report gave $284 is collected during the month.
Chairman Fisher, of the finance committee, stated that the compensation
insurance premium for borough employes must be paid this month. Chairman
Acklin, for the real estate committee, stated that as the work of the Red
Cross society was completed the room which they had been occupying in the
municipal building should be vacated and same be made a community room, as
was the original intention. Upon Mr. Fisher's motion, the Red Cross will
vacate the room as soon as possible. Mr. Fisher stated that he had met with
the board of health with reference to the controversy of paying the salary
of health officer and upon his motion the bill was ordered paid.
The report of the board of health for 1918 was read. The account was $50
overdrawn and a request was made that council grant them $500 for expenses
during the year 1919. After considerable discussion it was dually agreed
that $300 be given to start with. President Stanley and Borough Solicitor
Gilbert were selected to attend a meeting of the state Association of
Borough Councilmen, which convenes in Harrisburg soon.
The report of the borough auditors was presented and ordered printed in
both local papers. Joseph Charles was reappointed auditor of the Pruner
estate. Robert Spears was again selected as a member of the board of
health. Mr. Leitzell presented a waiver of all owners for damages which
might arise in the opening of Nineteenth street, between Columbia and Adams
avenue. Upon his motion the ordinance committee was instructed to frame a
motion to open this thoroughfare. Mr. Leitzell also reported that fifteen
arc light globes had been broken by boys with air rifles and that some
action should be taken to stop this practice. Mr. Hildebrand reported that
boys were also causing considerable nuisance in his section of town.
Upon Mr. Waple's motion, it was ordered that the 1916 taxes should be
settled with Mr. Porter, former tax collector. When the bills were
presented Mr. Hildebrand disputed the police bill for the Sixth and Seventh
wards and a heated discussion was had on the subject, Mr. Hildebrand
contending that the bill should be held up, but upon Mr. Acklin's motion it
was ordered paid. The meeting then adjourned.
MT. UNION TEAM IS DEFEATED BY TYRONE
Before a crowd of 500 frenzied fans the strong Mt. Union High school team
met defeat at the hand of Tyrone High by the score of 21 to 17, on the
Y.M.C.A. gymnasium floor last evening. The game was one of the best seen
here this season and was featured by the rapid fire teamwork of both teams.
The first half ended with the score at 12 to 9 in favor of the locals. In
the first part of the second period the visitors took a spurt and the score
was tied at 16 to 16, but by clever team work the Tyrone squad took the lead
never to be headed again. The Mt. Union team is, undoubtedly, one of the
best in this section and they will establish an enviable record before the
close of the season. To pick a star from the Tyrone team would be
impossible as every man played his hardest to secure the victory. The score
follows:
Mt. Union H. S. Tyrone H. S.
Peduzzi Forward Watson (Rosendberg)
Bennet forward Thompson
Ritchie centre Mitchell
Sunders guard Woomer
Peters guard Epstein
Summary - Field goals Watson 5, Mitchell 3, Woomer 1, Peduzzi 3, Rosenberg
2; foul goals Mitchell 3 out of 11, Sunders 7 out of 15. Referee, Neff;
timer, Huss; scorer, Trimble.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
OBITUARY
HARVEY J. CADY.
Rev. Frank T. Cady, rector of Trinity Episcopal church, received word on
Sunday of the death of his father, Harvey J. Cady, which occurred at
Peekskill, N.Y. Rev. Cady departed yesterday for Peekskill, where interment
will be made.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
NOTES ABOUT PEOPLE
Virgil Luther Crawford, of Logan avenue, is a business caller in
Pittsburg.
Mrs. Donald Eyer and young son are visitors with Mrs. Eyer's parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Augustus Bachert, on Lincoln avenue.
W. H. McLanahan, the well known Pennsylvania avenue druggist, has departed
for Florida where he expects to enjoy the balmy breezes for the next few
weeks.
Miss Roberta Lovell is confined to her home on Tenth street suffering from
an attack of pneumonia. She has the best wishes of all for a speedy
restoration of health.
Mrs. Perry J. Woleslagle, of Unionville, was a business caller in town
yesterday.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
NOTES ABOUT TOWN
J. Albert Gardner has moved his confectionery store from Pennsylvania
avenue to the McGowan building on Tenth street.
The girls' basketball team will practice on the Y. M. C. A. gymnasium
floor this evening beginning at 7 o'clock. A full turnout is desired.
The council of the First English Lutheran church will hold the regular
monthly meeting in the parsonage this evening at 8 o'clock.
Mrs. Richard Beaston will hold her class and dance in the Junior
Fraternity building this evening. Class will be held from 7 to 9, followed
by dancing. The receipts from this occasion will be turned over to the
Permanent Blind War fund and a cordial invitation is extended all to be
present and help in this worthy cause.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
BELLWOOD
The W.C.T.U. meets this afternoon at the home of Mrs. A. D. Bechtol.
Lewis Boyer, who has been in the service for some time at Camp Jackson,
Columbia, S.C., is one of the victims of influenza. His father, Benjamin
Boyer, received a Red Cross letter stating that he was in the base hospital
and would be kept there until thoroughly recovered. He is not seriously ill
was the reassuring message.
Mrs. F. B. Forrest yesterday underwent a successful operation for
appendicitis at the Mercy hospital, Altoona, which it is hoped will greatly
improve her health.
Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Stover, of South First street, have both been recent
victims of the prevailing epidemic, but in light form. Mrs. Stover is able
to be out and Mr. Stover is much improved.
Mr. and Mrs. Christian Stewart are receiving congratulations on the
arrival of a baby girl at their home on the hill.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
PRISONERS RELEASED
New York, February 3. - Information regarding Americans held prisoner and
now reported as having been released was made public tonight by the war
department, concerning Pennsylvanians, as follows:
Released from Gustrow and sailed from Warnemunde for Aaronus:
John H. Martin, Walton.
Released from various German prison camps:
Patrick O'Connor, "Esmeraldas," McKeepsport.
Gordon N. Cargo, Brown's Plan, East Pittsburg.
Released from German prison camps and returned to France:
Joseph Servacus, Kulpmont.
Lloyd R. Wolf, Lebanon.
Jacobs Doyka, Portage.
Pasquera Livrone, Leechburg.
George J. Milrath, New Philadelphia.
Reported released from Camp Rastatt, Germany, and to have left for
Strassbourg:
William P. Nerget, 900 Schuylkill avenue, Reading.
Herbert V. Jordan, Hanover.
Alfred P. Jones, Easton.
Earl Spannuth, Pottsville.
Harry H. Rhines, Hallton.
Joseph A. Davis, Philadelphia.
William F. Bodinsky, Minersville.
Roy R. Bickhart, Paxtonville.
William C. Voigstherger, Philadelphia.
Reported released from German prison camps and passed through Berne,
Switzerland:
John Jacinski, Natrona.
Reported released from Camp Cassel and left on British hospital train:
August Scharmuch, Pittsburg.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 2
VANBUSKIRK GETS A SUSPENDED SENTENCE
Court Merciful to Juniata Man Who Gave Valuable Evidence in Luther Case
Thomas Vanbuskirk, of Juniata, the man who was indicted on two charges of
conspiracy with Constables Charles Luther, H. M. Gill and Ross A. Spangler,
and who submitted to the charge, came before Judge Baldrige at court
yesterday morning to be sentenced. The costs were imposed upon him in one
case and in both, sentence was suspended.
The court was disposed to be merciful with the man because he gave
valuable testimony on behalf of the prosecution in the cases that grew out
of the wronging of Dorothy Kline, the 14-year-old girl to whom he is
related.
Various Important Matters.
Judge Baldrige heard the injunction suit of Mrs. Caroline Mincenberg vs.
her son, Edwin K. Mincenberg, known as James A. Braun and Julius I. Marx, in
which the plaintiff seeks to restrain defendants from in any way encumbering
or conveying any part of her property to Marx. It was in evidence that
Edwin had induced his mother to convey her property to him as trustee and
then he sought to sell it to Marx. Decision in the case was reserved.
J. Austin Sullivan filed his report as master in the divorce suit of
Jennie Findley Pappas vs. Mildas Pappas, recommending that a divorce be
granted. Pappas is charged with desertion. They were married June 25,
1917. They only lived together two weeks, the bridegroom leaving for parts
unknown on July 8, the same year.
After their marriage, they went to Cleveland, O., and after staying there
several days, they went out to a park. Pappas, according to the report,
walked away from his wife, saying he would soon return, but she has not seen
him since. She said he took with him about $80 which she had saved and
which she had given him. Pappas is a Greek, and came to Altoona with a
carnival.
Attorney M. D. Patterson, counsel for Dr. D. M. Roudabush, filed a motion
for a new trial in the two cases in which Dr. Roudabush and Charles W. Filer
sued each other for damages, resulting from an automobile accident. The
jury had awarded Filer $200. It is stated in the petition that the verdict
was against the law and the evidence and that counsel for Filer, in arguing
to the jury, stated that a compromise had been offered by Filer and refused
by defendant, which much prejudiced the defendant's case.
Edward Hite was directed by the court to pay his wife $15 per month after
the expiration of a term he is serving in jail on the charge of bigamy.
Motions and Petitions.
Richard Gilbert filed his report as auditor to distribute funds in the
estate of Charles C. Wright, late of Altoona. The estate was valued at
$21,360.42 and it was divided among his surviving relatives with the
exception of a $500 bequest to the trustees of the Pleasantville Lutheran
church.
A rule was awarded on Lafayette R. Smith to show cause why he should not
pay his wife, Gertrude Smith, alimony and the counsel fees, while divorce
proceedings are pending. A subpoena was awarded in the divorce case,
desertion being the charge.
A rule was awarded for the discharge of Clarence J. Miller, administrator
of the estate of Henrietta A. Miller.
The court signed a decree permitting Jacob L. Sbarsky to change his name
to Jacob L. Sparr.
The Mountain City Trust company guardian of Florence B. Blair, was
authorized to pay $35 for necessaries.
The Mountain City Trust company was appointed guardian of Lawrence Melvin
Hay.
Upon recommendation of a commission appointed to make inquiry as to the
mental condition of Mrs. Annie Goodale of Hollidaysburg, the court directed
her removal to the county hospital for treatment.
A rule was awarded for the discharge of Joseph W. Shellenberger,
administrator of Bridget Shellenberger.
The bond of Lucy L. Barton, administratrix of Sebert N. Barton was
approved.
A rule was awarded for the discharge of William Tanners, jr., executor of
the estate of Catherine Tanners.
The plaintiff was directed to file statement of cause of action before
March 3, in the case of Leonard Miller vs. Adams Express company.
The bond of the Altoona Trust company, appointed guardian of Walter A.
Kimmel, was approved.
The bond of R. A. Henderson, administrator of Susan A. Ritchey, to sell
real estate was approved.
W. S. Detrick was appointed master in the divorce case of Elsie Devona
Brede vs. John Brede.
An inquest in partition was awarded in the estate of Balzer Shellenberger.
Andrew Keith and S. C. Rhodes were appointed appraisers of the estate of
Harvey Helsel, late of North Woodbury township.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
HOLLIDAYSBURG
HOWARD CURRAN IS HOME FROM FRANCE
Gives Graphic Description of Horrors of Battlefield. Opinion Same as
Sherman's
Howard Curran, one of the three sons of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Curran, in
Uncle Sam's service, arrived home on Saturday from Camp Dix, Wrightsville,
N.J., where he was mustered out of service, having returned from France some
days ago. Howard was a member of company L, 120th infantry, Thirty-second
division, and departed from Camp Lee, Va., on July 18, arriving in France on
July 30. Soon after arriving there he had the good fortune at Brest to see
Dr. Samuel Calvin Smith, formerly of Hollidaysburg, whom he found looking
fine and in the best of spirits, being overjoyed to see some one from the
old home town.
Howard spent some time in hospitals in France on account of being gassed.
One day he was seized with neuralgia in the head and while trying to ease up
the pressure of the mask let in some of the deadly gas. He was in two
hospitals after landing here, not having yet entirely recovered from the
effect of the gas, but is now all right again, and is big and sturdy-
looking, being in the best of health.
He took part in the fighting at the Argonne forest, being a corporal in
the infantry, and like all others who were on the firing line, had no end of
exciting experiences. On December 27 he first got under fire at Argonne,
going over the top twice and was engaged in continuous fighting for nineteen
days, during which he had some narrow escapes from death. A boche bullet
struck the earth close to him, knocking up a clod of clay that struck him on
the back of the neck, which was stiff for several days. Once when he
emerged from a furious barrage he discovered that his cartridge pockets were
shot away.
Mr. Curran says the stories of German atrocities are not one bit
overrated, as it would be impossible to do so, and he says the many
barbarous things that they saw greatly spurred the American troops to
action. He considers himself fortunate to come out of it all with such
minor injury and says he never suffered with shell shock.
The young man gave a graphic description of the horrors of the battlefield
to the writer and is of the same opinion as Sherman as to what war is. Once
when he was sitting on the edge of a big shell hole, shaving with the dirty,
brackish water in it, a shell burst nearby, scattering the mud and water all
over him, but he escaped uninjured.
Among other interesting things he tells of a young man in his company who
was as expert in throwing hand grenades as a high-priced ball pitcher, being
able to place a grenade wherever he wants it and to hurl it at a great
distance. Once when charging a number of hidden Germans, the young soldier
began throwing grenades in quick succession and with such accuracy that a
number of boches came running from cover with their hands above their heads,
crying "Kamerad," and were promptly placed with the other German prisoners.
Mr. Curran says he is overjoyed to get home but is glad he had such an
experience and the opportunity to strike for the greatest cause the world
has ever known.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
A LENGTHY REPORT IN STEVENS ESTATE
At the session of the county court held at Hollidaysburg yesterday morning
Attorney W. L. Pascoe, executor of the estate of the late Adie A. Stevens of
Tyrone, requested the withdrawal of the auditor's report, that was filed
last week by the auditor, Attorney A. H. McCamant, as there were some errors
discovered and omissions.
The auditor states in his report that he did not deem it advisable to
state the balance throughout the distribution. He directed the executor to
pay out to the heirs and legatees, the sum of $744,325.22 and to pay all the
costs and claims allowed. Thus the full value of the estate is not revealed
by the report, but the total amount is likely over one million dollars.
The report is very large, comprising 100 pages of typewritten matter. The
auditor worked upon it for many months and there will be a number of
exceptions to the report which will be heard at argument court.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
PEOPLE COMING AND GOING
Captain Malcolm Baldrige, son of Hon. Howard Baldrige, of Omaha, Neb., and
who was with the American army in France, lately returning, is visiting his
uncle, Judge Thomas J. Baldrige, of East Allegheny street.
Misses Margaret Dunmire and Mary Zerbie, of Juniata, were the guests
yesterday of Mrs. Max E. Moore, of North Union street.
J. W. Andrews, of Pittsburg, was a business visitor here yesterday.
Misses Lasca Dorr and Evelyn Swope, of Birmingham, were the guests of Mrs.
C. F. Hays, of Allegheny and Union streets, yesterday.
Misses Ethel Nokes, of Gaysport, and Eleanor Snyder, of Pine street, are
visiting friends and relatives at Cleveland, O.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
NEWS OF SOLDIERS IN CAMP AND HOME
Special to the Tribune.
Lewistown, February 3. - Private Clay Fultz, of Milroy, writes home that
he has been in the hospital since December 27, when he was wounded in the
hip with a machine gun bullet accidentally fired by one of the squad as they
returned from practice.
Private Wilbur S. Bloom, a motor dispatch bearer, of the 112th infantry
headquarter, returned home today, after spending some time in the hospital
recovering from injuries sustained in action at Chateau Thierry.
Mr. and Mrs. Willis Manbeck, of Lake Park, were informed by the war
department of the death of their son, Ralph Manbeck, of company M, 112th
U.S. infantry, on September 27. Private Lester Manbeck, a brother and
member of the same company, has not been heard from since the battle of the
Argonne forest. Private Lloyd Gessleman is in a hospital near Pittsburg,
recovering from wounds, while his brother, Allie Gessleman, both members of
the field artillery and sons of Mrs. Manbeck, is in a base hospital in
France.
Corporal J. M. Johnson, battery E. First field artillery, Fort Sill,
Okla., arrived here last night with the body of Private Bertrum Henry, who
died from injuries sustained in an accident at the fort last week. Corporal
Johnson left today for Harrisburg, where he will enjoy a few days' furlough
with his parents before returning to camp.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
JUNIATA
COUNCIL TRANSACTS IMPORTANT BUSINESS
Taxation for Borough Purposes for 1919 Is Passed at Ten Mills
After waiting one hour for a quorum borough council convened at 9 o'clock
last night with S. S. Blatt, of the Third ward, in the chair. Other members
present were E. P. Cox, C. T. Dunn, F. N. Derstine, E. W. Wills, L. A.
Winters and R. N. Hoover. Absentees at roll call were President E. W.
Burtnette, D. G. Meek and S. I. Forsht. Monthly reports of Burgess Bardine,
Tax Collector, D. E. Parker, Street and Water Commissioner, J. C. Turner and
Borough Clerk Will H. Baird were heard and approved. Collections of fines
and license fees in the office of Burgess Bardine in January totaled $36.80.
Frontage, garbage fees and other money received by Borough Clerk Baird
aggregated $698.75. A communication from Insurance Agent James E. Gable was
not favorable to placing insurance on the Juniata No. 2 automobile hose and
chemical truck. The truck is not acceptable as an insurance risk against
collision or any damage as a vehicle and rates insuring it against
destruction by fire are prohibitive. On motion it was decided to not insure
the truck.
Without halting to take any important action the borough fathers spent an
hour in discussion of interesting, such as town debts that annoy with the
building of the annual appropriation ordinance, street repairs in prospect
and other general matters that trend to public welfare. Under ordinance the
annual tax levy measure, fixing the 1919 taxation for borough purposes at 10
mills, was given second and third readings and passed finally without
opposition.
Following was the 1919 budget of financial appropriations to a grand total
of $37,748.75. This ordinance was also given second and third readings and
passed finally unanimously. A clash came when as item of $2,600 for fire
purposes was scrutinized and it was gleaned that the regular figure of $200
to each fire company might be eliminated. Mr. Dunn and A. J. Ayers, of
Juniata No. 2 company, led an assault on the language of the ordinance and
had some little argument with Chairman of Finance E. P. Cox. The item was
on motion altered to read $200 for each fire company and $2,000 for general
fire maintenance. Other large items are street lighting $2,925, salaries
$4,860, Third street storm sewer $2,000 and for which $4,000 was set aside
last year, sinking fund $6,400, interest on $194,000 borough and water bonds
$9,700, highway improvements $3,500, board of health $3,000 and many other
lesser items.
Action on a recommendation of the committee on fire council directed the
purchase of 1,100 feet of new fire hose, 150 feet chemical hose, 13 gum
coats, 13 pairs rubber boots, 15 pairs rubber gloves, 16 pairs smoke
goggles, 4 respirators, 8 hose boots, and 2 plaster hooks. Bills on which
payment was authorized last night total $1,361.98.
PERSONALS
J. H. Harmon, of Duncannon, has become a citizen of Juniata, making his
home with his son, C. C. Harmon, of 410 Sixth avenue.
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Treese and daughter Hilda, of 511 Fifth street, spent
the week end in Johnstown.
Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Stanley, of 622 Fifth avenue, entertained over the
week-end, Mrs. Stanley's sister, Mrs. Elwood Hall and two children, of
Bellefonte.
Mrs. H. G. Long, of 613 Fifth avenue, was a Sunday visitor in Pittsburg.
Miss Kathryn Burtnett, a student at Indiana Normal, returned to her
studies yesterday, after being confined to her bed for one week, at the home
of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Burtnett, of 412 Sixth avenue, with a
severe attack of the flu.
CHURCH NOTES
The "Busy Bees" club of the Methodist Episcopal Sunday school will meet at
the home of their teacher, Miss Della Steffey, 509 Sixth avenue, on Friday
evening. All numbers are urged to be present, as officers for the ensuing
year will be elected.
The Loyal Woman's Bible class of Grace United Evangelical Sunday school
will meet this evening, at the home of Mrs. E. S. Zerbe, 512 Ninth avenue.
A full attendance is desired.
The Standard Bearers of the First Methodist Episcopal church will meet
this evening with Miss Theo Cunningham, of 323 Park Place. Let all members
be present.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 4
HUNTINGDON
Thomas M. Wood, section foreman at Ardenheim, expects to be retired on a
pension in a few days, as on Friday last he finished forty-six years of
service with the Pennsylvania Railroad company.
A Juniata collegian remarked to the writer that he believes it is ex-
governor M. G. Brumbaugh's intention to return in a few years and establish
a university here. The ex-governor last June in his commencement address at
Juniata said that America must now become the seat of learning, and that he
believes Juniata is one of the most favored places for a university, both
from general location and from its situation among the other colleges of the
same denomination. The ex-governor intends to devote his latter years to
educational work.
Dr. F. L. Richards, Huntingdon's capable osteopath, has purchased the Dr.
R. Myers properly at 741 Washington street, and will move into it about
April 1st as a residence and office. Since the death of her father the
properly has been occupied by Miss Lena Myers.
Postmaster J. G. Lesher has been appointed enrollment agent of the U.S.
public service reserve. Any one looking for work may call at the post
office and fill out a blank.
F. Marion McCamant and Edgar Moser have announced the starting of a jitney
service in Huntingdon.
The sixteenth annual county school directors association met in the court
house January 30 and 31. The following officers will serve for the ensuing
year: President, J. H. Likens, of Huntingdon; first vice-president, Charles
L. Hoffman, of Petersburg; second vice-president, I. G. Owens, of Morris
township; secretary W. A. Brown, of Smithfield township; treasurer, John C.
Whittaker, of Grafton.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 5
WALTER D. WEISE TO SET SAIL SOON
Letter Says He Expects to Leave About January 28. Now at Nozaire, France.
Private Walter D. Weise, of 2107 Beale avenue, a member of the Fifth
regiment, U.S.M., casualty company 349, writes to his parents under date of
January 18 that he was located at St. Nozaire, France, from which place he
expected to set sail for the U.S. about January 28. Walter, after being
wounded, served as police at base hospital No. 85, Paris, and also at
Bloise. He states that he had a fine time Christmas day, and that on
Christmas eve they were all presented with Christmas boxes from home.
Jesse R. Brooks, of Juniata, a member of the 110th infantry, arrived in
Philadelphia last Saturday aboard the transport Frances L. Skinner. They
were all gassed or wounded men aboard and were immediately entrained for
Camp Dix. Brooks was wounded in action, degree undetermined, his name
appearing on the casualty list of December 6, 1918.
Captain William Young, of No. 1 fire company, has received word from his
son, John A. Young, with the 315th machine gun company now at Aney, France.
He is on guard duty and was in action for three months previous to the
signing of the armistice.
Myer Abelson, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Abelson, of 2203 Eighth avenue,
returned home Saturday evening with an honorable discharge from the service.
He was a member of company A, Thirtieth infantry, and was twice gassed in
action. The soldier was invalided to the U. S. January 8, aboard the U. S.
S. Kansas, being later discharged at Camp Lee. He will resume his duties
with the Altoona Pipe and Supply company at 1925 Ninth avenue, within the
next week.
Private Samuel Festenstein, a former Altoona boy but now residing at
Johnstown, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Festenstein, of that place, sends home
a letter to his parents, together with a photograph of himself in his far
north equipment. He is aged 30, and previous to the outbreak of the war was
employed in Detroit. When he enlisted he was sent to Camp Sherman and
attached to the 334th infantry division and sent to Russia to fight the
Bolsheviki. He writes that he has seen considerable action there and
expects to see much more before order is restored in that country.
Frederick Ingham, of the Twelfth balloon company, and James, of the 281st
aero squadron, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Ingham, of Wehnwood, write home
of meeting one another at Colembey, France, in a big "Y" hut. The date of
the meeting was January 7, this being the first time the one had seen the
other for over a year. They are both in good health and have seen lots of
service and excitement overseas.
Werley G. Barger, of this city, returned home recently from the Mexican
border with an honorable discharge from the service. He served in the U.S.
cavalry, enlisting March 5, 1918.
George Raffool, a local Syrian formerly employed at the Palace Cafe on
Eleventh avenue, has arrived from overseas, where he served in Company A,
305th infantry. He landed in New York on January 31, and was sent to Camp
Mills, where he expects to be mustered out soon.
Sergeant F. R. Albright was recently discharged from the service after 2
months services overseas in the 75th railway artillery. He enlisted on
February 14, 1918, at Washington D.C., and received his discharge from Camp
Dix, N.Y.
Edward Harris, of 219 Sixth avenue, has returned home from Scranton, where
he visited his nephew, Edwin Harris, of Scranton, who has just returned home
from overseas where he served with the 103rd engineers, 28th division. He
was blinded as the result of a severe gassing in action.
Private F. E. Flick returned home last week with an honorable discharge
from the service. He was inducted on April 26, 1918, and assigned to the
50th engineers, till October 11, 1918. Then up until his discharge on
January 28, 1919, he was a member of Company B, 32nd machine gun battalion.
He was discharged at Camp Meade, Md.
Sergeant Paul Luse arrived home Sunday evening from Americus, Ga., where
he recently received an honorable discharge from the service. He is the son
of W. C. Luse, of 2215 Tenth street. He was sent to Kelly field, Tex., in
March of 1918, and transferred to Souther field, Americus, Ga., on May 2,
1918.
Private W. Russell Charles returned home the latter part of December with
an honorable discharge from the service, which he entered as a drafted man
July 24, 1918, going to Camp Lee, Va. At camp he was assigned to
quartermaster's company.
Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Fluke, of 2406 Broad avenue, received a telegram from
their son, Edgar, stating that he had arrived safely at Newport News, Va.,
from overseas. He enlisted in the service in June, of 1917, and left for
overseas in August of the same year, with the 19th engineers. He served as
an electrician in hospital train No. 55, while overseas, and expects to be
mustered out in the near future.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 5
SCHOOL BOARD ELECTS M'KEE AS DIRECTOR
Choice Made Unanimous After First Ballot for Former Director
Changes in Teaching Personnel
William E. McKee, a citizen of the Seventh ward, a well-known shop foreman
and ex-school director, was elected last night by the Altoona school board
to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Hon. Fred A. Bell on being
elected the representative of the people of the city in the state
legislature. This was the most important business to come before the board
at its regular meeting last evening.
The board awaited until the close of its session to go into an election.
The name of Mr. McKee was brought before the board by M. H. Canan and his
nomination seemed to meet with general approval. Othello C. Hite was also
brought before the board as a candidate by letter. H. M. Chenoweth was also
mentioned and Dr. Joseph D. Findley was named by J. D. Hicks. After a short
discussion Dr. Nugent, who had suggested Mr. Chenoweth, withdrew his name
and expressed favor for Mr. McKee. A vote was taken and resulted in McKee
getting six votes and Dr. Findley one. On motion of Mr. Hicks the election
of Mr. McKee was made unanimous.
Mrs. Joseph McAleer, chairman of the Canteen department of the Red Cross,
appeared before the board and requested permission for members of the
Mothers' club to visit the schools and receive the contributions of the
school children. She announced that the children were anxious to show their
love for the soldiers and sailors, that they wanted to wear a Victory Arch
button, and that the work would be accomplished without imposing any work on
the principals and teachers. The board later acted on the request and
decided to postpone action for a month, believing that the public would
respond with a sufficient amount to complete the arch. Dr. Layton also
announced that the Principals association had disfavored the lifting of
contributions in the schools.
Superintendent Layton brought the matter of securing a commencement
speaker and stated that he had been in correspondence with Dr. E. B. Bryan,
president of Colgate university, Hamilton, N. Y., with a view of securing
him. He was authorized to secure Dr. Bryan for the commencement in June.
Dr. Layton presented a communication concerning the establishment of a
junior unit of the Reserve Officers Training corps for the High school but
the board decided that it would defer taking up military instruction at this
time and defer action until next term.
Miss Mabel Martin, at the suggestion of Dr. Layton, will take charge of
the sewing class of the continuation school for the remainder of the term.
She has been filling the position for a few weeks.
Miss Menna McMullen, of the Miller building, made application for
retirement on pension. The board dismissed the question of pensions at some
length and the merging of the city system with that established by the
state, which becomes effective July 1. A motion was passed that Misses
McMullen, Baxter, Stewart and Davis be placed temporarily in the partial
annuity class, which is good for a year.
Miss Ruth Bloomhardt, of the Adams building, was granted a leave of
absence that she might take a position at Fort Dodge, Iowa, to assist in the
reconstruction work for soldiers in the hospital at that place. She will
depart for the west today. Leaves of absence were granted Mrs. H. H.
Beacham and Mrs. Helen Roth Strutzman, and the resignation of Miss Leona
Harvey was accepted. Miss Ruth Hetterly was elected to fill the vacancy
caused by the resignation of Miss Harvey.
Miss Marie Masterson was chosen as art supervisor for the ward schools and
the position vacated by her in the central grammar school will be filled by
Miss Frances Hopegood, a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan university.
Two vacancies in the teaching corps of the industrial department were
announced and the board proceeded to fill them. R. F. Daniel, of Numedia,
Pa., and Fred H. Jacks, of Muskegon, were chosen. Both are men of
experience and have just been released from service in France.
Mrs. Milleisen and Miss Rollins asked permission of the board to attend
the National Music convention in New York in April and Miss McNutt to attend
the Teacher's Drawing association in Boston. Permission was granted
providing they pay their own expenses while their salary would be continued
during their absence.
The matter of advertising for school supplies was deferred in the belief
that there would be a drop in the market prices in the next few months.
The members of the board received an invitation to attend the Teacher's
annual banquet at Jaffa temple on Saturday February 15 and the majority
expressed their pleasure in attending the affairs and would be present.
A report was made by a committee on the resolution asking for an increased
appropriation for schools that the pay of teachers could be increased. It
was favorable but the members of the board in discussing the question
decided that it was a matter for the legislature and the report was received
and filed.
Secretary C. M. Piper was authorized to attend the State School
Secretaries convention at Harrisburg this week. Miss Bernice Plette was
granted a furlough for the term of 1919-20 to attend college to obtain her
degree. The January report of the finance committee was read and showed the
receipts to be $82,221.17, expenditures, $24,394.65 and the balance in the
treasury, $57,826.52.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 8
PENNSYLVANIANS IN 28TH LEAD IN CASUALTIES
The Pennsylvania National Guardsmen composing the Twenty-eighth division,
suffered more casualties than any other unit, with the exception of the
First (Regulars), according to an announcement by the war department last
Saturday. The total major casualties in the Twenty-eighth division was
3,890.
The heaviest loss in prisoners was also in the Twenty-eighth division, 691
men being taken by the enemy. The Twenty-eighth division was also second on
the list in "missing in action," with 1,174. Among the National Guard
divisions, the heaviest regimental losses recorded are for the 110th
infantry of the Twenty-eighth division, 1,142 men.
The 316th's losses were with 342 of the losses of the 110th infantry of
the Twenty-eighth division, and that latter unit has the distinction of
losing more men than any other regiment in the army. The 110th, however,
fought from July 15 to the end of the war - practically four months - while
the 316th fought a month and a half.
The Twenty-eighth division holds numerous records. It lost more men
prisoners than any other division with a total of 691. Two of its infantry
regiments, the 109th and 110th, both composed 50 per cent of Philadelphians,
had the greatest casualties in the entire army. Its total major losses
exceeded those of any National Guard or National army division and were only
exceeded by the First division's losses. It stood fourth in the total
number of men killed, with 1,544, being led by the Third, Forty-second
(Rainbow) and Thirty-second (Michigan and Wisconsin National Guards) in that
respect.
The catastrophe at the Marne on July 15 accounts for the manner in which
the division exceeds in total losses, in men missing and in prisoners. Four
companies, two from the 109th infantry and two from the 110th, were
literally cut to pieces by the Germans on July 15. There were just about
enough survivors from all four companies to form a single unit of 250 men
when the action ended. This disaster also accounts for the preponderant
losses of the two regiments, the 110th, with 1,142, and the 109th with
1,112.
The bulk of the losses in the 110th were sustained in four engagements -
July 15, when two companies were almost wiped out; July 30, when the
regiment took the Grimpette woods along the Oureq; in August, north of the
Vesle, and in late September, in the attack on Apremont.
The losses of the 109th were garnered on July 15 south of the Marne; in
August, north of Fismette; in early September, south of the Aisne, and in
late September, on the Argonne front at Apremont.
The 109th infantry is composed of the old First regiment, N.G.P., of
Philadelphia, and the Thirteenth, from the vicinity of Scranton.
The 110th is made up of the old Third regiment of Philadelphia and the
Tenth of western Pennsylvania.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 9
TRANSFERS OF TEAL ESTATE RECORDED.
The following realty transfers were placed on record in the office of
Recorder of Deeds George C. Irwin, at Hollidaysburg, yesterday:
J. A. Koller and wife to J. Banks Kurtz, Seventeenth avenue, Altoona,
$1,070.00.
Abram Burket and wife to Oliver Carthers, Juniata borough, $400.00
Bertha M. Barnes and husband to Howard E. Gibbs, Juniata borough,
$2,000.00.
Samuel M. Griffith and wife to George C. Roth, 804 Sixth avenue, Altoona,
$4,200.00.
Bertram P. Wilkinson, et al, to Roy E. and Elizabeth J. Goettman, Pine
avenue, Altoona, $800.00.
John R. Hinman and wife to Daniel S. Hetrick, 117 Lexington avenue,
Altoona, $2,400.00.
Fidelity B. L. and A. Association to George P. Hoover, Thirteenth street,
Altoona, $1,500.00.
George Roth and wife to Reese I. Jones, Second avenue, Altoona, $8,000.00.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 9
ROARING SPRING
Dr. A. L. Garver and James Smith are on a business trip to New York city.
Miss Helen Lebauch, of Williamsport, the English teacher in the
Williamsburg high school, was the weekend guest of Misses Lena and Fannie
Morgart, of Poplar street.
Mrs. Emma Sullivan is spending this week with her sister, Mrs. I. U. Heas,
who is very ill at her home in Altoona.
Mrs. Arthur Bulger, of Altoona, was the over-Sunday guest of her father-
in-law, Millard Bulger and family, of Water street.
Miss Ida McAllister and Mrs. Mazie Everhart spent Monday in Altoona.
Walter McKnight, jr., infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter McKnight, of Main
street, is seriously ill at this writing.
Miss Mary Daugherty, of Poplar street, spent the week-end with Patton
friends.
Mr. and Mrs. J. Morrison Butler, while visiting the latter's uncle, John
Allen, and wife, of New Castle, were called home Sunday evening on account
of the serious illness of John I. Brown, of Roosevelt street, Mrs. Butler's
foster father. Mr. Brown was taken ill Friday morning, and though somewhat
better is still under the care of a trained nurse.
Rev. A. A. Hartman, pastor of the Reformed church, announces he has
recovered from his recent illness enough to enable him to conduct holy
communion services in that church next Sunday morning.
Frank Snyder, of East Main street, was a business visitor in Altoona on
Saturday.
Henry Butler, only son of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Butler, of South Main street,
is home from Camp Knox, Ky., having been honorable discharged from the
service a few days ago.
Frank McDermitt, of Akron, O., spent the week-end with his wife, who has
been visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Williams, of East Main street,
for a month or more.
The revival services that have been in progress in the local Methodist
Episcopal church for the past two weeks will continue this week. The
following is the week's program: Monday evening will be hospital evening;
Tuesday, singer's evening; Wednesday, business men's evening; Thursday,
church members' evening; Friday, school children's evening. Rev. A. S.
Williams, the pastor of this church, has had large audiences of interested
persons to enjoy and be benefited by his splendid sermons. Each evening's
discourse was better than the preceding one, and this week's work will
surely be a religious treat.
Rev. M. J. Weaver, of the local Brethren church, on Sunday evening began a
series of revival meetings, to continue for three weeks in that church.
Mrs. Susan Replogle, of Locust street, is spending this week with her
daughter, Mrs. William Hoover, and family, of Canoe Creek.
Mrs. Roscoe Hileman and Mrs. Palmer McGee spent some time recently with
friends in Altoona.
Mrs. Anna B. Eldon spent some time Friday in Altoona. On Sunday morning
Mrs. Eldon received a telegram from her daughter, Mrs. Hugh McConnell,
stating she and Ensign McConnell had left Seattle, Wash., for Boston, Mass.,
where the latter will receive his honorable discharge from the service.
After that time they will spend a week or more with Mrs. Eldon before going
into their new home at Northampton, Mass.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 9
LOCAL BREVITIES
Brief Notes of Happenings in and About the City
Rain today.
Get a Victory arch button.
The mild winter weather is appreciated.
Progress is being made on the Victory arch.
A couple of train loads of soldiers passed through the city yesterday.
Twenty-three hearings have been scheduled for this month at the office of
Referee Jacob Snyder. Only a small number of the compensation claims will
be aired in this city.
Millard Rhoades, aged 18, Greenwood, was admitted to Altoona hospital
yesterday with contused legs, suffered when he fell through a coal chute at
No. 3 engine house coal wharf.
Thieves carried away foodstuff to the value of $25 from the store of
Walter Edvano, 709 Twelfth street, after it was closed Saturday night.
Entrance was gained through a cellar window.
City and county motor car dealers will meet this evening at the garage at
Union avenue and Twentieth street, to outline plans for the third annual
automobile exhibit, which will likely be held next month in Green avenue
market house building.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
PERSONAL NOTES
Items Concerning Persons Whom You May Chance to Know
Rev. M. M. Sheedy, of St. John's Catholic church, has departed on a visit
to Florida.
Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Trout, of Broad avenue, are in Somerset attending the
funeral of a relative.
Mrs. E. Richards, of Reading, is a guest at the home of Mrs. Sarah Fowler,
of 1211 Seventh avenue.
Mrs. Jennie Strunk is visiting at the home of her brother-in-law, M. G.
Strunk, the well-known barber of this city.
J. Frank Perry, of 120 Lexington avenue, has been called to his home at
Winchester, Va., by the serious illness of his father.
Mrs. Fred Stegmeler, of 320 Lexington avenue, was removed to the Altoona
hospital Saturday and is suffering with pneumonia.
Mr. and Mrs. David Rogers and son Ralph, of Tyrone, are visiting at the
home of W. J. Leopold and Mrs. Murray Miller, of this city.
Miss Margaret Rollins, daughter of City Health Officer A. M. Rollins, of
1922 Eighth avenue, and Miss Anna Nash, of 504 First avenue, nurses in the
government service, spent Sunday at their homes. They are located at the
General hospital at Hoboken, near Pittsburg.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
STANDING OF CREWS
Middle and Pittsburg Division Crews At Altoona Today.
Following is the standing of the Middle Division crews after 2:50 a.m.
today.
Cabins - 235, 259, 247, 215, 256, 214, 232, 216, 16, 241, 233, 252, 237,
222, 226, 240, 224.
Tyrone crews after 12:01 a.m. - 090, 988, 554, 284, 401, 281, 283, 252,
724, 416, 013.
Extra Engineers - Gramley, Gates, Hartzell, Crone, Stewart, Huss,
Brickley, Zeigler, Davalier, Thompson, Miller, J. Smith, Cunningham, Emery,
Geisinger, Whitesel, Koller, Weld, Lesher, Tussey, Richards, Campbell,
Heister, Cornpropst, Naylor, Pee, E. Cramer, J. Richards, Leiter.
Extra Firemen - Hirt, Vantrese, Flock, Creighton, Watts, Whitesel,
Gelsinger, Schreffler, J. Smith, Inpulecei, Peterson, Weber, Kyle, Hoover,
Swanger, Markle, Isenberg, Brandt, Stone.
Extra Conductors - Snyder, Heinbaugh, Hoffman.
Extra Brakemen - Parson, Smith, Watson, Ward, Shepard, Snyder, Cappi,
Megahan, Moreland, McKevey, Ermine, Seebrish, Plette, Taylor, Jessip, James,
Miller.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
ALDERMANIC NOTES.
Cases Heard or to Be Disposed of in Courts of Local Magistrates.
John Jumper was arrested yesterday, for larceny of a ring, valued at
$12.50, from James Youncey. Information was preferred against the man at
the office of Alderman Gorsuch, Third ward, who will hear the case at 3
o'clock this afternoon.
Riley McClelland, who was charged with assault and battery against Ernest
Vanstan, of Tyrone, was discharged last evening by Alderman W. C. Shuff, on
lack of sufficient evidence.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
FREIGHT WRECK NEAR TYRONE MAKES DELAY
Brake Pin Drops and Bar Catches in Switches, Wrecking Six Cars
Six cars were wrecked and eight trains were delayed from fifteen minutes
to more than two hors, yesterday afternoon when a brake pin dropped out and
caused a bar to fall and catch in a switch as Extra freight 415 was
proceeding eastward, near Tyrone.
Engineer W. Lewis and Conductor R. Adams were in charge of the train,
destined for Lock Haven. The accident occurred at a mile west of Tyrone, at
RM block station, as the freight was crossing from No. 1 to No. 5 track.
Tracks 3 and 4 were blocked, and switches between Nos. 3 and 5 tracks, were
badly damaged.
Of the trains delayed by the wreck, which happened at 1.53 p.m., three
were passenger and the others, freight. Altoona and Tyrone wreck forces
cleared the accident about 4.20 o'clock.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
YOUNG CELANO GETS HEARINGS YESTERDAY
Charged With Burglary and Highway Robbery, Also Robbing Miller Store
Joseph Celano, a young Italian residing at Altoona, but who is supposed to
be a floater was yesterday afternoon given hearings before Justice of the
Peace C. Irwin Lewis, upon two separate charges: First for burglary and
highway robbery, preferred by Philip Malano, of East Hollidaysburg; the
other charge being entered by Merchant George Miller, of East Allegheny
street, who accuses the man of attempted robbery at his store. He submitted
to the Malano charge and was held on the other count by the squire, being
committed to jail in default of $2,000 bail on each count. District
Attorney Marion D. Patterson represented the commonwealth at the hearings.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
NO REDUCTION FOR THE BRIEF LICENSE YEAR
Judge Baldrige Says Brooks Law Doesn't Recognize Fractional Period
SESSION IS SHORTEST ON RECORD
The last session of the Blair county license court held at Hollidaysburg
yesterday morning by Judge Thomas J. Baldrige, was probably the shortest one
in the history of the county, and the most uninteresting court of the kind,
as not a single remonstrance was filed against any of the applicants for
license for the new year.
There was a large attendance of the brewers and hotelmen of Little Blair.
Arguments were made on behalf of but one applicant, and the anti-license
people were not represented, Attorney H. A. Davis, formerly the champion of
the Anti-Saloon league at license court, not being present.
The chief interest centered in an appeal to the court on behalf of the
hotelmen to reduce the license fees, since the licenses will not be
effective after July first, but the Court refused to make such an order.
Applicants were presented to the court for three breweries and fifty
hotels. There were but two new applications, those of W. C. Adler of the
Altamonte and Frank Nigro of the Columbia, both of Altoona and the only
argument made was on behalf of the latter.
When Judge Baldrige had finished examining the applications and the bonds,
finding them all in proper form, he requested the hotelmen assembled, not to
sell liquor to one, James Farrel, an inmate of the county home. The court
said Farrel was not a fit subject to receive liquor and the hotelmen were
advised to refuse to sell liquor to any of the inmates of the county
institutions, who are public charges.
Attorney T. H. Greevy made he appeal on behalf of Frank Nigro, who is
applying for license for the Columbia Hotel. An application was refused for
this house last year. Nigro is an Italian and has been in charge of the
house for several months.
Mr. Greevy said the Columbia is a large building, well adapted to hotel
purposes and was licensed for a number of years. He further said the
Italian population of Altoona is large, as is proven when the Italians are
seen in parades. Many of them live in that vicinity and ought to have more
hotel accommodations. The lawyer read a letter from Count S. Ranuzzi,
endorsing the applicant and the necessity for the license and presented
petitions signed by 205 Italian residents of the Eighth ward and also one
signed by 172 Italian citizens residing in other parts of the city in
substitution of this argument.
Said Mr. Greevy, "In view of the fact that the constitutional amendment
prohibiting the manufacture and sale of liquor will soon become effective,
we think the court ought to grant this license."
"Why do you say that?" replied Judge Baldrige.
"Well" said Mr. Greevy, "we must establish hotels for service after
prohibition becomes effective. Where are all these people going to stop?
People cannot get hotel accommodations now in Altoona, and suppose the
majority of the hotels close, what will the people do? The other night a
lot of people had to sleep in a theatre because they couldn't get a hotel.
This hotel is necessary and the license ought to be granted."
Attorney N. P. Mervine called the attention of the court to the fact that
under the terms of the president's order, all hotels will have to close
their bars on July first and he thought it wasn't fair that they should be
required to pay the full amount of the fee of $550, when they will be
permitted to keep open but four and one half months.
He figured this would be nine twenty-fourths of a year and he so moved
that the county treasurer be directed to issue the licenses for this
fractional part of the total fee subject to a further order, should the
president rescind the order closing the hotels on July 1st.
The court replied, "There is no law permitting us to take such action.
The only remedy is with the legislature." Mr. Mervine told the court that a
bill to that effect has been introduced in the legislature and the fees
should be modified pending its passage.
Mr. Mervine cited cases that had been decided by Judges Dean and Bell and
by other judges, showing that where licenses had been granted for a portion
of a year, the fee had been reduced in the proper amount. He declared that
it was only an act of justice to the hotel proprietors.
Mr. Greevy supplemented Mr. Mervine's argument with a statement that Judge
Bell had made such orders on several occasions.
To these arguments Judge Baldrige replied, "Under the Brook's license law
of 1887, a license is granted for a year and a yearly fee is fixed. I have
conferred with a number of judges on the subject and the opinion prevails
that under the terms of the act of 1887, the license is for a year and must
be paid for accordingly. The mere fact that such a bill has been introduced
in the legislature, shows that it is recognized that under existing laws the
courts have no authority to reduce the fee."
The court said nothing as to when he will render his decisions.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
LABORER'S TOES BROKEN
Carmine Deto, aged 44 of this city, employed as a yard laborer, suffered
fractures of his second and third left toes yesterday when a piece of pipe
he was removing from a car fell on the members. He was treated at Altoona
hospital dispensary. Joseph Bancroft, aged 52, 2115 Fourth avenue, had his
left middle finger caught and lacerated between several blocks at the Red
Bridge metal yard. He was given attention at the dispensary.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
A. S. VOGT RETIRES AFTER LONG SERVICE
Mechanical Engineer of the Pennsy for 32 Years, Altoona Is Pensioned
THREE PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCED
Axel S. Vogt, of 1808 Third avenue, mechanical engineer for the Pennsy
during the last thirty-two years, and in service of the company for nearly
forty-five years, has been retired and pensioned, effective February 1.
William F. Kiesel, jr., assistant mechanical engineer, has been appointed
acting mechanical engineer. Harry A. Hoke, assistant engineer, is advanced
to acting assistant mechanical engineer, vice Mr. Kiesel. Benjamin S. Brown,
foreman in the mechanical engineer's office, has been named acting assistant
engineer, vice Mr. Hoke.
Announcement of the retirement of Mr. Vogt and the successive changes in
personnel of employes in his former office, was made yesterday by local
officials, the general manager having approved them.
Mr. Vogt is a native of Sweden, and was born January 19, 1849, at
Christianstad. He was educated in the public schools and came to this
country when quite young. He became an employe of the Pennsy June 16, 1874,
as a draftsman, and remained in the service of the company consecutively
till May 20, 1882. On that date he went with the firm of Schutte &
Goehring, Philadelphia, remaining there until November 1, 1883, when he re-
entered the service of the railroad company as assistant engineer of tests.
Until September 1, 1886, Mr. Vogt remained in that capacity and then was
advanced to the position of assistant engineer, where he served the
corporation until March 1, 1887. On that date the Altoonan was made
mechanical engineer and his thirty-two years as that official have been
replete with interesting features.
Although Mr. Vogt's 70th birthday occurred in the middle of January, he
continued at his post until last Saturday. He is one of the best known
figures about the Twelfth street offices by reason of his long service. He
possesses good health and was not eager to put aside his duties. All his
Pennsy service has been given in this city and he resided here save during
the interim he was employed in Philadelphia.
Mr. Kiesel, who has been named as Mr. Vogt's successor, was born September
1, 1866, at Scranton. He entered the service of the Pennsy on April 9,
1888, as draftsman in the office of the mechanical engineer in this city.
On March 1, 1899, he was promoted to chief draftsman. He held that position
until July 1, 1900, when he became assistant engineer and on August 1, 1902,
Mr. Kiesel was made assistant to Mr. Vogt.
Harry A. Hoke, successor to Mr. Kiesel, was born October 13, 1873, at
Union City, Ind., and entered Pennsy service December 12, 1898, in this city
as draftsman in the mechanical engineer's office. He became assistant chief
draftsman September 1, 1902, and on June 1, 1906, was advanced to the post
of assistant engineer.
Mr. Brown is also well qualified for the work put down by Mr. Hoke. The
former was born at Wormleysburg, Pa., May 18, 1872, and became a draftsman
at the local mechanical engineer's office, August 19, 1903, and advanced to
foreman in the same office, October 1, 1913. All three if the men affected
by the changes have been carefully schooled in Pennsy engineering work and
are ably fitted to assume new responsibilities.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
FORTY-FIVE INITIATED BY STOREHOUSE UNION
Women Workers Are Told of Favorable Conditions Existing Over Pennsy System
With an attendance of 250 members and forty-five candidates initiated last
evening, the regular session of Storehouse Attendants' lodge No. 821, proved
vastly interesting.
Miss M. Ross, representing the federal railways administration at
Washington, D. C., addressed the women and girl workers in the organization,
telling them of improvements in conditions over the Pennsy system. The
meeting was held in the quarters of the lodge at 1420 Twelfth avenue.
The next regular gathering is to be held in two weeks. Miss Ross has been
working here some time in the interests of feminine railway employes, and
her message last night contained various features of importance for the fair
sex identified with the lodge.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10
ARMY DESERTER ASKS COP TO ARREST HIM
Ray Dickey, Portland, Ore., Fled Camp Meade Month Ago-Tires of Wandering
Enlisting in the United States regular army, June 17th, 1916, before the
nation entered the war, Ray Dickey, Portland, Ore., waited two years and
then some to be sent overseas, with no result, and that's why he deserted at
Camp Meade a month ago, and was arrested yesterday here.
Dickey was bored with temporary civilian life. He strayed into the city
yesterday, tired of wandering around and then told Traffic Officer Charles
Dean, at Bridge street, his story and surrendered, saying he wanted to be
returned to the army.
Following his arrest at 3:15 p.m. Dickey said he enlisted on the date
mentioned at Sacramento, Calif., and was assigned to the First cavalry,
regular army. He was stationed along the Mexican border. Later he was
transferred to Company I, 63rd infantry, when the cavalry was disrupted.
Eventually that unit came eastward and was located at Camp Meade ready to
go overseas, when the war terminated. Dickey, dissatisfied with his lot,
took French leave from Meade a month ago. But the old army call stirred him
to give himself up, because he wants to return to his outfit, as it may find
a chance to fight Bolshvik in Russia.
Edward Shoenfelt, charged with insulting women Saturday night, was
discharged at police court yesterday. Irvin Smith and Elmer Fleck, charged
with a like offense, failed to appear and forfeited their securities of
$10.80 each. M. McLeod, drunk and disorderly, forfeited $10.80. A drunk
forfeited $3, and Albert Figlioline, accused of tampering with a motor
truck, was remanded for a hearing.
Altoona Tribune, Tuesday, February 4, 1919, page 10