NEWS: Items from the Altoona Tribune, February 5, 1919, Blair County, PA
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THREE KILLED IN WRECK OF TRAIN NO. 18
Chicago Mail Engine Down 40-Foot Bank into Juniata
S. E. Hyle, Jr., 327 Howard Avenue, Special Duty Man; F. M. McCue, 204
Walnut Avenue, Fireman; Engineer J. L. Sandoe, Harrisburg; Meet Death in
Accident Near Birmingham
All the Dead Aboard Locomotive and Killed Instantly - One Woman Passenger
Slightly injured - Seven Cars Derailed, Blocking All Tracks - Freight Train
Had Three Cars Wrecked About Same Time and Theory Is That Mail Ran Into The
Debris
Three men were instantly killed, and a woman passenger was hurt slightly
when Chicago Mail, No. 18, leaving this city at 8:40 p.m. was wrecked a mile
east of Birmingham, last night at 9:14 o'clock, and the engine went over a
40-foot embankment into Juniata river.
A duel accident occurred, and officials were endeavoring to determine
early this morning whether a westbound freight train, which had three cars
wrecked on an adjoining track, was involved first and the mail train ran
into the debris, or if the freight wreck was due to No. 18's accident.
The dead are:
J. L. Sandoe, aged 61, No. 24 North Fifth street, Harrisburg, engineer.
Francis M. McCue, aged 22, 204 Walnut avenue, fireman.
Samuel E. Hyle, Jr., aged 28, 321 Howard avenue, special duty man.
TRAIN NINE MINUTES LATE
Train 18 left this city about nine minutes behind its schedule last night.
It was in charge of a Harrisburg crew, including Conductor E. L. Shields.
Fireman McCue and Hyle, working as a fireman's instructor, supplemented the
regular fireman.
The Mail was speeding eastward below Birmingham, when the locomotive, No.
3380 leaped from the track and hurtled the embankment, crashing into the
river. The first seven cars, the train being composed of fourteen mail, and
express cars, and a day coach in the rear, were derailed badly, except the
seventh car. Only the first truck of the latter left the rails.
Three cars of the freight train were wrecked on the next track. The
debris of both wrecks was scattered over three tracks, completely blocking
traffic for several hours, and necessitating the detouring of four passenger
trains over the Petersburg branch.
OFFICIALS GO TO SCENE
News of the accidents reached the city a few minutes before 9:30 p.m. and
local officials, including General Superintendent N. W. Smith,
Superintendent J. C. Johnson and others, left for the scene on a special
train at 10:05 o'clock.
Altoona and Huntingdon wreck forces were called. At 12:04 a.m. No. 3
track had been cleared and was opened to traffic a short time later. Prior
to that trains 33, 47 and 31, west-bound, were brought to the city via the
Petersburg and Hollidaysburg branches. Train No. 6 was sent east by the
same diverted route.
It was stated this morning that serious impediment to the freight and
passenger traffic on the Middle division had resulted. The detention would
probable continue until this forenoon, it was predicted.
MEN KILLED INSTANTLY.
Members of the Mail crew reaching the passenger locomotive, found it
overturned in the river. The enginemen had met death instantly. Their
bodies were comparatively slightly mutilated, it was announced.
The Altoonans' corpses were brought to this city early today and sent to
local morgues. That of Engineer Sandoe was sent to Harrisburg. While mail
clerks, express messengers and trainmen aboard the Mail were considerably
shaken up, none suffered any severe injury.
A woman passenger bound for an eastern city claimed she had been injured.
She suffered in the general shakeup but was able to continue eastward. None
of the express or mail cars were overturned, but all same the seventh car
were badly displaced.
CAUSE UNDETERMINED.
Because of the peculiar nature of the double accident, officials
encountered much difficulty in determining which accident occurred primarily
and which was responsible for the second.
The task of raising the wrecked locomotive will give the wreckers ample
work, by reason of the weight of the engine and its location in the river.
Tracks are on a straight line at this point for some distance but the
embankment inclines steeply toward the river, so that nothing could save the
locomotive from toppling into the river, forty feet below the track.
FIREMAN'S CAREER SHORT.
Francis McCue, the dead fireman, had been in the service of the Pennsy
about a year. He was widely known. The accident claimed two Seventh ward
residents, the Hyle and McCue families residing within a radius of a few
squares.
McCue was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis McCue, sr. He was born in this
city, April 10th, 1896. He was single. His parents survive with two
brothers, John and Richard, and two sisters, Irene and Inez, all at home.
His father has been ill for some time and a physician had to be summoned for
him last evening, after news of the son's death had been given the family.
HYLE WORKED DECADE.
Samuel Earl Hyle, jr., was employed by the Pennsy for the last ten years.
He formerly resided at 1604 Third street, but during the last year made his
home with his mother at 337 Howard avenue.
He was the son of Samuel E., sr., and Sarah S. Hyle, and was born in this
city, October 2nd, 1890. He wedded Miss Ethel Bowen, this city, on January
15th, 1913. She survives with his parents and three brothers, Fred L. with
a motor mechanics' company, American Expeditionary forces, France; Lewis C.
and Ralph M., both at home. He was a member of the Trinity Reformed church.
He was first employed by the Pennsy as a fireman and lately was doing
special duty. The body will be prepared for burial by Funeral Director
Gilden.
No arrangements for either funeral are perfected. Announcement will be
made later.
ENGINEER WELL KNOWN.
Engineer Sandow was one of the best known engineers on the Middle
division. He was born at Mifflintown, Pa., on August 16, 1857, and had been
in the Pennsy service many years. His body was brought here first to the
railroad morgue and later taken to Harrisburg.
Engineer G. E. Kniseley and Conductor T. C. Cummings were in charge of the
wrecked freight train. Both are Harrisburgers. Shortly before 3 o'clock
this morning No. 2 track had been opened and was ready for service.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, pages 1 and 10
DUNCANSVILLE
Miss Jane Baker, of Brooks Mills, was an over Sunday visitor at the home
of her sister, Mrs. William Leighty.
At the Communion service in the Lutheran church on Sunday morning nine
members were added, of which two were baptized and seven confirmed. Two
hundred and thirty nine participated in the Holy Communion. Benevolent
offering totaling over $100.
Miss Margaret Wallace, of Hollidaysburg, was a guest of her grandparents,
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wallace on Sunday.
Mrs. Luther Liebegott and sister Miss Edna Graham were guests of relatives
at Claysburg on Sunday.
Miss Mary Shoenfelt, of Hollidaysburg, spent Sunday last visiting at the
home of W. V. Webb.
Lee and Dewey Laufer, of Altoona, were visitors at the home of S. A.
Keller on Sunday.
The Borough Council will meet in regular monthly session on Friday
evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Ed Lotz, of Altoona, were guests at the home of Guy H. Lotz
on Friday evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Shoenfelt, of Roaring Spring, were guests at the home of
William Yeckley over Sunday.
Miss Katie Schultz, of Altoona, was a visitor at the home of Charles
Shultz on Sunday.
J. C. Graham, of Clearfield, was a guest in town on Sunday, among friends.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 4 (Duncansville)
Germany, Dec. 30, 1918.
Mr. Geo. H. Liebegott:
I thought that I would drop you a few lines to let you know that I am
O.K., hoping when these few lines reach you it will find you the same.
Well, George, I guess the old bus line is still in motion; this would be a
good place here for it where I am in a few hours we could be to the Rhine or
Berlin for that matter for believe me here are good roads to go it on.
This is sure some country over here, but everything quiet now; if you had
been with me since I came over you would sure have some good news for the
Tribune. I have seen quite a little of this country, from England, to a
close point to the Rhine, have seen the Rock of Gibraltar, Spain and much of
France and am now in Germany with the fighting 16th Field Artillery. I was
with a truck outfit until a month ago when I got over a lot of France and I
had a good old White truck to do it with. It is sure great to go marching
through these German towns day after day; we have had good quarters to sleep
in, all the best German houses are always waiting for us when we come into a
town of course the people occupy the house and carry the wood and make the
fire these cold days. We have nothing much to do except drill.
I have been from the southern part of France to the northern part so you
can take it from me I have seen my share of this "over here" and I think
after we look the Rhine over that it won't be long till I am in the U.S.A.
again. I would like to give you a good write-up for the "Trib", but at the
present it don't suit, so I will close at this. Hoping you had a Merry Xmas
and will have a Happy New Year.
Yours truly,
James Johnston,
16th F. A. Bat. F 4th division A. E. F.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 4 (Duncansville)
THE BIRDS OF BLAIR COUNTY AND VICINITY
By Harry A. McGraw
About one year ago a list of birds of this vicinity, compiled by the writer,
was published in the Tribune. At that time the statement was made that
sometime in the future it was hoped that a more nearly complete list would
be compiled from the records of several bird students. The list below is the
result of the observations of Mr. Harry B. Kinch, of Altoona, Mr. Harry P.
Hays, of Hollidaysburg, and the writer during the year 1918. It is published
through the generosity of the Tribune with the hope that it will be of value
to present and future students of the fauna of this locality.
The dates given are those on which the species was first seen during the
year.
If any other students are willing to co-operate with those above named in
making the list more complete from year to year, their assistance will be
welcomed.
Species Locality Date Observer
Horned Grebe Lakemont April 14th McGraw
Pied-billed Grebe Lakemont March 10th McGraw
Mallard Brush Run Feb. 25th Hays
Pintail Flowing Spring Oct. 20th Hays
Lesser Scaup Duck Lakemont Jan. 6th McGraw
Canada Goose Lakemont March 9th McGraw
Bittern Dell Delight August 2nd Hays
Great Blue Herron Canan's Ridge April 28th Kinch
Green Heron Brush Run May 9th Hays
Bl'k Crowned Night Herron Dell Delight July 12th Hays
Virginia Rail Hickory Bottom Apr. 21st Kinch
Sora Hickory Bottom May 5th McGraw
Coot Lakemont Nov. 3rd McGraw
Woodcok Dysart Park May 12th Hays
Wilson's Snipe Hickory Bottom May 5th McGraw
Greater Yellow-legs Dysart Park May 9th Hays
Solitary Sandpiper Brush Run May 11th Hays
Upland Plover Plover Barrows April 17th Hays
Spotted Sandpiper Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Killdear Dysart Park March 27th Hays
Bob-white Plover Barrows March 30th Kinch
Ruffed Grouse Lakemont April 15th Hays
Wild Turkey Beaver Dams Feb. 24th Kinch
Mourning Dove Hart's Brick Yard March 26th Hays
Turkey Vulture Brush Mountain Sept. 21st Hays
Marsh Hawk Canan's Ridge August 24th McGraw
Red-tailed Hawk Hollidaysburg Feb. 7th Hays
Sparrow Hawk Dysart Park March 1st Hays
Screech Owl Hollidaysburg Jan. 20th Hays
Yellow-billed Cuckoo Ant Hills May 21st Hays
Black-billed Cuckoo Blue Knob Road May 19th Hays
Belted Kingfisher Lakemont March 31st McGraw
Northern Hairy Woodpecker Ant Hills Jan. 27th Hays
Downy Woodpecker Lakemont Jan. 6th McGraw
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Lakemont March 31st McGraw
Red-headed Woodpecker Lakemont May 5th McGraw
Northern Flicker Hollidaysburg March 1st Hays
Whip-Poor-Will Newberg Ridge May 21st McGraw
Nighthawk Altoona May 7th McGraw
Chimney Swift Altoona May 7th McGraw
Ruby-throated Humming Bird Ore-Banks Woods May 11th Hays
Kingbird Robinson's Hill May 5th Hays
Crested Flycatcher Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Phoebe Bald Hill March 28th Hays
Olive-sided Flycatcher Lloyd's Thicket May 26th Hays
Wood Pewee Brush Mountain May 17th McGraw
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher Brush Mountain May 17th McGraw
Least Flycatcher Ore-Bank Woods May 11th Hays
Prairie Horned Lark Mattern's Fields April 23rd Hays
Blue Jay Robinson's Hill Feb. 25th Hays
Crow Robinson's Hill Feb. 2nd Hays
Starling Dell Delight April 3rd Hays
Bobolink Showalter's Field May 9th Hays
Cowbird Lakemont March 31st McGraw
Red-winged Blackbird Filter Beds Feb. 10th Kinch
Meadowlark Dysart Park March 11th Hays
Orchard Oriole Ore-Bank Woods May 15th Hays
Baltimore Oriole Hollidaysburg April 30th Hays
Purple Grackle Highland Hall March 16th Hays
Purple Finch Lakemont October 27th McGraw
Goldfinch 22nd St. Lane May 4th McGraw
Vesper Sparrow Plank Road April 14th Hays
Grasshopper Sparrow Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
White-crowned Sparrow Buckhorn April 26th Kinch
White-throated Sparrow Robinson's Hill May 5th Hays
Tree Sparrow Ant Hills Jan. 15th Hays
Chipping Sparrow Hollidaysburg April 13th Hays
Field Sparrow Ore-Bank Woods Feb. 16th Hays
Slate-colored Junco Lakemont Feb. 10th McGraw
Song Sparrow Lakemont Feb. 17th McGraw
Swamp Sparrow Hickory Bottom May 5th McGraw
Fox Sparrow Lakemont March 10th McGraw
Towhee Powder-House Hill April 18th McGraw
Cardinal Lakemont Jan. 10th Hays
Rose-breasted Grosbeak Ore-Bank Woods May 16th Hays
Indigo Bunting Ant Hills May 9th Hays
Scarlet Tanager Spring Meadow May 19th Kinch
Purple Martin Altoona May 17th McGraw
Cliff Swallow Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Barn Swallow Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Tree Swallow Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Bank Swallow Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Cedar Waxwing Blue Knob Road May 19th Hays
Red-eyed Vireo Presbyterian Ceme May 11th Hays
Warbling Vireo Beaver Dams June 2nd McGraw
Black and White Warbler Canan's Ridge April 28th Kinch
Worm-eating Warble Newburg Ridge May 12th McGraw
Golden-winged Warbler Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Tennessee Warbler Ore-Bank Woods May 15th Hays
Cape May Warbler Lakemont May 5th McGraw
Yellow Warbler Robinson's Hill May 5th Hays
Black-throated Blue Warbler Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Myrtle Warbler Canan's Ridge April 28th Kinch
Magnolia Warbler Ore-Bank Woods May 11th Hays
Chestnut-sided Warbler Carson Valley May 12th Kinch
Bay-Breasted Warbler Maple Hollow May 19th McGraw
Bl'k-throated Green Warbler Lakemont May 5th McGraw
Pine Warbler Lakemont May 3rd Hays
Yellow Palm Warbler Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Oven-bird Lakemont May 5th McGraw
Water-thrush Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Louisiana Water-thrush Lakemont April 21st McGraw
Mourning Warbler Laurel Gap May 26th McGraw
Maryland Yellow-throat Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Yellow-breasted Chat Newburg Ridge May 11th McGraw
Canada Warbler Laurel Gap May 26th McGraw
Redstart Spring Meadow May 19th Kinch
Catbird Bald Hill March 28th Hays
Brown Thrasher Ant Hills April 20th Kinch
House Wren Pleasant Valley May 4th McGraw
Winter Wren Chimney Rocks March 16th Hays
Brown Creeper Lakemont April 17th McGraw
White-breasted Nuthatch Hollidaysburg Jan. 4th Hays
Red-breasted Nuthatch Brush Mountain Sept. 14th Hays
Tufted Titmouse Canan's Ridge Feb. 10th Kinch
Chickadee Lakemont Jan. 6th Hays
Golden-crowned Kinglet Lakemont March 31st Kinch
Ruby-crowned Kinglet Lakemont April 7th McGraw
Wood Thrush Newburg Ridge May 12th McGraw
Veery Lakemont May 17th McGraw
Hermit Thrush Hollidaysburg April 11th Hays
Robin Sandy Run March 3rd Kinch
Bluebird Robinson's Hill Feb. 25th Hays
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 4
SPROUL
Mrs. Robert Thompson is rather seriously indisposed at this time.
On Friday night while at work firing boilers for the General Refractories
company, John Imler was taken ill with what proved to be an attack of
pneumonia. On Saturday morning he was taken to the Nason hospital where he
is lying seriously ill at this writing.
Daniel Earnest of Blue Knob, was to be seen in our village on Monday.
Our young folks are still practicing for the great time they are going to
have when our soldier boys come home.
Ross Burket, of Portage, spent Sunday night with his brother George of our
village.
Our Christian Endeavor has again begun operation after a rest of some
months.
On last Sunday the Sunday school of this place re-organized by electing
the following officers: superintendent, Cloyd McCarty; assistant
superintendent, R. I. McCarty; secretary, Ray McCarty; assistant, Miss Rose
Parks; treasurer, Mrs. Claire Johnson; assistant, Mrs. Eugene Walter;
organist, Miss Grace Whittaker; assistant, Miss Irene Fickes; librarians,
Charles Fickes, Henry Pope, Jennie Black.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 5
BELLWOOD
Council met Monday evening with only routine business to transact. There
was considerable discussion of matters likely to come up for definite action
in the near future.
The Baptist Women's Missionary society meets in the church at 2:30 this
afternoon.
The Presbyterian Missionary society meets at the home of Mrs. Wallace this
afternoon at 2:30. The Ladies' Aid society meets Thursday evening at the
home of Mrs. J. C. McFarland.
The Methodist Episcopal Woman's Foreign Missionary society meets this
afternoon at 2:30 at the home of Mrs. G. B. Ague.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 5
TYRONE TOPICS
First Walkout Of Local Paper Makers
Demanding that the company grant them: "The right to organize without
interference," "a standard wage scale," "the reinstatement of all men
discharged for unwarranted causes," "fair treatment to all employes," "all
bonuses be turned into wages." A number of members of the International
Brotherhood of Pulp and Sulphite makers and the International Brotherhood of
Paper Makers, together with some of their sympathizers "walked out" from
their work at the West Virginia Pulp & Paper company yesterday afternoon.
This is the first trouble which this company has ever had with any of the
employes and the strike comes as a great surprise to the people of the
community as the impression prevailed that the employes were among the
highest paid and best treated in this section: only recently the firm
granting a substantial increase to all in the form of a bonus.
The men aver, however, that several of their number have been dismissed
from the service without just cause and the treatment accorded the members
of the union has been far from cordial. Vice President Goodman, of the
Paper Makers union, stated last evening that about 200 people had left their
work and that the ranks would be largely increased within the next few days.
The walkout, however, has not as yet seriously hindered the operation of
the plant and the officials are confident that it will have little effect
upon its running capacity.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8
NOTES ABOUT PEOPLE
Paul M. Goheen, for the past year attached to the aviation corps at Kelly
Field, Texas, arrived in town last evening, honorable discharged from the
service.
John A. Reiley, of the DeFerie apartments, is in Harrisburg today
attending a meeting of the State School Board Secretaries association which
is being held in the new Penn-Harris hotel.
Timothy McCartney, of Altoona, was a business caller in town yesterday.
Russell McCarthy, of the Huntingdon New Era editorial staff, was a social
caller in town on Monday evening.
Miss Catherine Waple, of the Ward House, will depart this evening for
several days visit with friends in eastern cities.
John Harper, of Bellefonte, was a recent visitor with friends in town.
Miss Catherine Zeliff, of Washingtonville, Pa., is the latest addition to
the Tyrone public school's teaching staff. Miss Zeliff arrived in town
yesterday and will begin her new duties at once.
The many friends of Mrs. George Kienzle will be sorry to learn that she is
confined to her home on East Eleventh street suffering from a severe attack
of quinsy.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Tyrone)
LIBERTY BOWLERS WIN
In one of the hardest fought matches of the season the Liberty team of the
Tyrone Bowling league defeated the City team by the narrow margin of 29
pins. The game was closely contested from start to finish and the outcome
in doubt until the last man had bowled. Fickes was the high man for the
single game with 209 and also captured the honors for the match with a total
of 555. The summary follows:
Liberty team
Wolfgang 184 195 149 528
Schell 165 169 181 515
Getz 149 183 164 496
McGovern 163 140 124 427
Warnock 181 186 165 532
Totals 842 873 783 2498
City team
Fickes 209 164 182 555
Mitchell 208 147 143 498
Johnson 169 137 176 482
Dixon 145 171 154 470
Buck 203 129 132 464
Totals 934 748 787 2469
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Tyrone)
GIRLS' FIVE MEETS BLAIRSVILLE
The first girls' basketball game of the season will be played on the Y. M.
C. A. gymnasium floor on Friday evening when the Tyrone girls will meet the
strong Blairsville High school squad. The visitors claim to be the
strongest team in Western Pennsylvania and are sure of annexing a victory.
The local team is the best ever representing this community and will line up
with such well known players as Keohane, Waple, Arnold, Mease, Watson and
Snyder in uniform. Considerable expense was necessary to secure such a
first class team for the opening game and fans should show their
appreciation by filling the gymnasium to its capacity. The contest will
start at 8:30 o'clock.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Tyrone)
NOTES ABOUT TOWN
A meeting of the Emergency Aid workers will be held this afternoon at two
o'clock at the home of Mrs. T. B. Shuman, on South Lincoln avenue.
A meeting of the Civic club will be held tomorrow afternoon at three
o'clock. Every member is urged to be present.
A silver medal contest will be held in the Y.M.C.A. auditorium on Friday
evening. The affair will be held under the auspices of the W. C. T. U., and
the young people of town will be the entertainers. Some fine talent is to
be found among the kiddies in this vicinity and a delightful occasion is
promised. The admission will be free, but a silver collection will be
lifted.
All members of the J. R. Davies' Mission band who are taking part in the
coming entertainment are requested to meet in the church immediately after
school this afternoon.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Tyrone)
JUNIATA
Church Notes
An official board meeting of the Methodist church will be held this
evening after prayer service.
The U-go-I-go class of the Presbyterian Sunday school will meet at the
home of Mrs. C. A. Heberling, 310 Broadway, on Thursday evening. A good
attendance is desired.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8
JUNIATA MEMORIAL SELECTED
Juniata will launch a soldiers' memorial campaign with a minimum objective
of $5000 for the erection of a permanent tribute to some three hundred
borough boys who served their country in the world war for human liberty.
Following reports of probable cost that ran from thirty to eighty thousand
dollars, projects to establish a memorial athletic field or a high school
auditorium were abandoned and a town hall suggestion on a somewhat smaller
financial scale was also voted down.
Definite action to fix the memorial was reached in adopting a motion to
erect a granite shaft or statue on the grass plot in the corner of the
McKinley school property at Eighth avenue and Fifth street and the plan also
includes presentation of commemorative medals to Juniata boys who were in
the service. The decision was reached in the third and most important
session of citizens boosting the home town soldiers memorial and was
unanimous.
The meeting over which chairman L. C. Miller presided in the high school
last night was enthusiastic and went well into details of a memorial fund
campaign to be launched about March first. Window cards, memorial fund
buttons and other advertising and display matter will be ordered today and
the nucleus of the $5000 monument and medal fund was gleaned in a $25 cash
chip in of the general committee to meet preliminary expenses.
A resignation tendered by Chairman L. C. Miller on account of his feeling
that some other citizen might be able to give more time to the work, was
unanimously declined. James V. Ferry was elected vice chairman and the
movement will go forward with the same splendid team work that won a twice
over the top success in the United War Fund drive. D. L. Dick, L. A.
Haberstroh and C. B. Fresh were named a committee on design of monument and
medals and will later submit drawings and estimates for the choice of the
general committee.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Juniata)
SERIOUS TOPICS DISCUSSED
The high school and grammar grade faculty last evening met in conference
with the board of education and discussed a few of the deeper themes of
modern education. Directors Hillis, Chase, Bathgate and Dick were present
with the teachers and in a session under the chairmanship of Supt. Wineland,
the following program was presented:
Minimum essentials for admission to High school. Discussion opened by
Miss Frances Pecht, Mr. G. W. Chase.
How may the Transition from Grammar to High School be made less difficult?
Discussion opened by Miss Elizabeth Scherer, Mr. D. L. Dick.
The function of the Modern High school. Discussion opened by Miss Phebe
Gettig, Mr. N. E. Noher.
Music in the Grammar and High school. Discussion opened by Miss Eva
Lucas, Mr. H. T. Heller.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Juniata)
PERSONALS
Carl L. Black, of the Aero squadron, who has been stationed at Arcadia,
Florida, received his honorable discharge and last evening arrived at the
home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. V. H. Black, of 703 Fifth avenue.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Juniata)
SOME NEWSY NOTES
The Woman's Christian Temperance union will meet this afternoon at 2:30 at
the home of Mrs. Anna Dasic, of 621 Seventh avenue. A good attendance is
desired.
Mituka Council 249, D. of P. will meet in regular session this evening.
All members are urged to be present as business of importance will be
transacted.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 8 (Juniata)
PEOPLE COMING AND GOING
Mr. and Mrs. U. G. Lindsay, of Allegheny street, spent Sunday at
Pittsburgh with their son Robert.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Cliber, John W. Cliber and Andrew T. Stone, jr., all
residents of Walnut street, have gone on a combined business and pleasure
trip to New York city.
Harry T. Bertram, of Harrisburg, was a business visitor in town yesterday.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 9
KARL DAUS ENTERS SUIT
A suit has been entered in the Blair county court by Karl A. Daus through
his attorney Robert W. Smith against George H. Gates, of Altoona, the action
having been brought under the act of congress which extends protection to
the civil rights of members of the military or naval establishment of the
United States while engaged in war.
The plaintiff avers that he was inducted into the military service on
March 27, 1918 and was discharged December 12th, 1918, and that sometime
previous to his entering the military service, he had purchased a team of
horses from the defendant for the sum of $500. At different times he paid
on the team, all told giving the defendant $320, leaving a balance of $180.
It is claimed further that the defendant without any warrant at law with
the aid of Constable D. L. Stiffler, went on the plaintiff's premises and
took the team away without making any arrangements for the return of the
amount paid to date on the purchase.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 9
SOLDIER CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY
Justus Albright, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. William Albright, of Juniata
street, and who was with the American army overseas in Battery C., Fifty-
second artillery, and recently returned and is spending a furlough with his
parents, attained his 19th birthday on Monday and the event was fittingly
celebrated at the Albright residence in the evening. Thirty guests were
present and a sumptuous repast was served, which was the crowning feature of
the evening. Dancing was a very popular form of amusement and a very
enjoyable time was spent until a late hour by the merrymakers. The young
man was presented with a handsome gold watch by his parents and sisters. He
enjoyed the evening immensely, remarking that it was quite different from
his 18th birthday last February, which he spent on the firing line in
France, ending the day by going to bed in the mud.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 9
NEWS NOTES OF INTEREST
Miss Edith N. Nessley, of Landisville, Pa., missionary to India, will
speak at the church of God on Pine street this evening at 7:30.
A number of Blair county farmers took such advantage of the fine weather
this winter, that they have done the greater part of their spring plowing.
The new machine shop being erected by the McLanahan-Stone Machine company
at Gaysport to replace the shop destroyed by fire some time ago, is almost
completed and is a model of modern workmanship. The framework is of cement
and the building is as near fire proof as it is possible to make it.
A Ford runabout occupied by James Brown of near Altoona, skidded yesterday
morning on the icy surface of the state road near Ant Hill Station, and
turned turtle, the driver being pinned under the top, but fortunately
escaped injury with the exception of a sprained wrist and some scratches and
bruises. Two other cars soon came upon the scene the occupants of which
released Brown from his unpleasant position. When the Ford was placed
upright it was found that it was not much damaged the top being somewhat
mashed and the wind shield broken. As Brown could not operate the car on
account of his injured wrist, one of the others, volunteered to drive him
home in the Ford.
Two large electric search lamps, were placed in position yesterday for the
proper illumination of the soldiers arch in the Diamond. One lamp has been
placed on the roof of the Reamey building at the East End of the Diamond
occupied by Barber William Proctor and the other one mounted on the top of
the porch at the residence of John Kitzinger at the west end. These lamps
will light up the arch perfectly and give it a beautiful appearance at
night. The wiring was completed yesterday and the system will be in
readiness for lighting as soon as the globes are put in position. Signs
bearing the names of all the battles participated in "Over There" by local
boys were placed on the structure yesterday, comprising the following:
Belleau Wood, Aisne, St. Mihiel, Boyonville, Argonne Forest, Cantigny and
Chateau Thierry.
Trouble is brewing in the local high school over the refusal of
Superintendent H. J. Barrett to permit the members of the senior class to
hold the senior class play, for the reason that so much time has been lost
on account of the epidemic of Spanish influenza. Professor Barrett
therefore believes that all the time possible should be devoted to study and
if the play would be held, much time would be required in practicing for it.
The seniors do not agree with Professor Barrett, and it is said they are
determined to have the play, or leave school. Developments in the matter
are expected today.
Goes To Japan.
Miss Rebecca McKillip, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William McKillip, of Wayne
street, will leave Richmond, Va., this week for Seattle, Washington, from
which place she will said for Japan, February 14th., on the S. S. Kashima
Maru, Japan Steamship Line.
Miss McKillip goes as the private secretary of Miss Katherine Hawes, of
Richmond, who heads a commission sent out by the Foreign department of the
National board of the Y.W.C.A. for study and observation of living and
working conditions among Japanese women and girls.
While in Japan they will visit missions and Young Women's Christian
associations, returning to the United States in June.
Similar commissions are being sent to China, India and South America.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 9
HAS SLIGHT SHRAPNEL WOUND IN LEFT LEG
Lawson Johnson, of 1728 Union Avenue, Writes Home - Now at Bacharch, Germany
Lawson Johnston, son of Mrs. Venie Johnston of 1728 Union avenue, a bugler
in Company A, 7th infantry, whose name appears on today's casualty list, is
well and now located at Bacharch, according to letter received from him
recently. He was in the base hospital, owing a slight wound by shrapnel in
the left leg, for only a couple of weeks. The date of his wounding was
September 30.
He enlisted in the service on November 14, 1917, at Baltimore, Md., when
at the age of 16 years, and has taken part in the two big allied drives last
summer where American troops were used. The pocket handkerchief that he
carried with him through those campaigns was sent home the other day to his
mother. He is at present a member of the 3rd army of occupation.
Private Fred W. Harman, son of Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Harman of 1315 Second
avenue, has arrived home with an honorable discharge. He was a member of
company A, 28th infantry, and saw service in France covering a period of
eighteen months and eighteen days. He was both wounded and gassed in
action.
Ike H. Lafferty, of this city, returned home with an honorable discharge
from the army after a year in the service. He served at Vancouver as a
machinist as a member of the 401st aero construction squadron. Later he was
transferred to San Francisco and made a member of the 2nd aero signal corps.
His brother, Luther, has also returned home with an honorable discharge from
the navy. He enlisted in Johnstown and was a coast patrol duty on the
submarine destroyer, the U.S.S. Avenger, as chief machinist's mate. They
are both well known musicians and were members of bands while in the
service.
Mrs. Sarah Sifk, of 963 Sixteenth street, received a telegram from her
son, Martin Sifk, who is in France, saying that he was well and expects to
set sail for home soon.
Floyd W. Coble, of Williamsburg, was promoted to the position of master
engineer at Camp Kearney, Cal., November 11. He enlisted in the service on
June 5, 1918 and was sent to Columbus barracks, later being assigned to Camp
Humphrey, Va., as mechanic in headquarters company, engineers. He was later
placed in the 216th regiment, engineers, and in October 1918, was sent to
California.
Two sons of William Mentzer, of Redman, near Roaring Spring, are in the
service of their country, one in the infantry, J. T. Mentzer, and the other
in the artillery, David A. Jerre, was formerly employed by the Pennsy on the
Pittsburg division as fireman. Both have seen active service at the front,
and have both escaped being wounded.
James H. Stephen of 1320 Tenth avenue, was discharged from the service on
January 8, 1919, at Camp Greene, Milton, N. C., and returned home. He
enlisted on October 18, 1918, and served in Company 7, Rect. Camp 5 38th
infantry.
Private George R. Haigh, of 603 First avenue, received an honorable
discharge from the service on January 30, 1919. He entered the service June
26, 1918, going to Camp Lee, Va., where he was assigned to Company D. 329th
infantry, 83rd division, which saw action about St. Quentin. He sailed for
overseas in August and was wounded in action at the battle of St. Quentin,
France.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
NINETEENTH'S BOYS TO COME HOME SOON
J. F. Henderson Writes Home That Officers and Old Men Are to Sail for the
States
The 19th Engineers has a mighty big and warm spot in the hearts of Altoona
and Blair county people for the reason that in the command there are more
than a hundred local boys that volunteered early in April, 1917 to serve in
this railway regiment. A letter received yesterday by Mr. and Mrs. D. J.
Henderson, of 320 Willow avenue, which gives hope that these early
volunteers will be back home soon.
The letter was from their son, J. F. Henderson, was written under date of
January 16, 1919 from Nevers, France and follows:
Dear Mother and Father - At last we are coming home very soon. By the
time you get this letter we will be on our way somewhere, maybe in France
and maybe on the water. Our commanding officer told us last night that just
the old men and a few officers of the 19th were to be gone as soon as
possible. There are only 500 of us old fellows here out of a camp of 4000.
We are turning our equipment in and cleaning up in general but still
working. We are supposed to go to a camp here for a little drilling I guess
but you can expect us by the latter part of February or sooner so don't
write any more. We will likely meet the other 500 of the old men at the
seaport.
It certainly makes one feel joyous to know that our time is coming soon.
We were kind of reconciled to about three or four months more but we are
surprised. The drafted men in our outfit don't like it very much that they
should pick us out and let them here but we didn't wait for them to come
over with us. Quite a few of our old men who have been made officers have
to stay behind. There is only about twenty of them going with us.
I guess it will be mighty cold crossing the ocean but if the water would
happen to freeze I would get out and walk it although we are having regular
spring weather here. It is January 16 and haven't seen snow yet, much
different from last year.
I am working at night now. I have a fine job from 7 p.m. to 3.30 a.m.
There are so many men here that they are in each others way. Everyone is
just moving that's all. The boys know the war is over so why work so much.
I guess there will be less than ever done now after we go for it will tend
to dishearten a lot of them but it won't be long till the whole camp is
vacated as it is supposed to be cleared by March.
We are having as casuals but one thing they can't get away from and that
is the service we have done. We will most likely have our third gold stripe
as we get it on my birthday (some month). Don't get too anxious now. Just
hold the check rein and wait till you hear from me. It's hard to tell where
they will send us to but one thing is sure, we are coming. Hoping this will
cheer you up, I will close for this time. Will write when we leave. With
love, "Floyd."
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
HIGH SCHOOL FIREMEN WALK OUT YESTERDAY
Petition Fails to Be Acted on at School Board Meeting, and Two Firemen Leave
After their petition for an eight hour day failed to be read Monday night
at the monthly meeting of the school board, "Doc" Baker, night firemen at
the High school building, and W. O. Long, day fireman, walked out yesterday
afternoon at 8 o'clock. The petition called for an eight hour day, instead
of a twelve as heretofore, with the same remuneration.
The men quitting claim they made their demands known to the president of
the school board, W. F. Eberle, as early as the 16th of last month, and that
the latter had promised to bring the matter up at Monday night's board
meeting. When nothing came of the matter, they then voted to quit, walking
out yesterday.
The services of two men from the Fourth street shops, have been
temporarily secured, who will be in charge until a readjustment can be made,
or the difficulty ironed out. This move was made in the interests of the
school children, and the men who have temporarily taken the places of the
men who quit are in no wise strike-breakers.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
PRISONERS RELEASED
Washington, February 4. - Information received by the war department
concerning Americans released from German prison camps was made public
tonight as follows:
Oscar Lehman, Philadelphia.
George H. Welch, Reading, Pa.
Reported released from German prison camps now at Strassburg:
Corporal George - Olson, Dubois, Pa.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
PERSONAL NOTES
Items Concerning Persons Whom You May Chance to Know
Miss Marie Zimmerman, of 209 Walnut avenue, has returned home from
Washington, D. C., where she was the guest of relatives during the last ten
days.
Henry Doerr, the well known butcher, and James Condrin, of the Hotel
Brunswick, are business visitors in Harrisburg.
Mrs. Sarah M. Wilson and daughter have returned home from a visit to
Clearfield and vicinity.
Mrs. Newton Crum, of 2413 Seventh avenue, is recovering from her recent
operation at the Mercy hospital.
Mrs. H. S. Lang, of 807 Chestnut avenue, has returned from a visit with
relatives in Huntingdon.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
DISORDERLY MAN IN BUILDING ARRESTED
T. W. Scott, Accused of Insulting and Frightening Women, Detained by the
Police
T. W. Scott was arrested at the Commerce building yesterday afternoon on
complaint of Superintendent Greevy, of the federal employment bureau, who
charged the man with being disorderly, insulting and frightening women and
girls employed in the building.
It is alleged that Scott visited various offices and made himself
generally obnoxious to the feminine occupants. Mr. Greevy arrived on the
scene, summoned a policeman and Scott is detained at police station to
answer the charges at police court this afternoon.
Two drunks forfeited their securities of $3.80 each at police court
yesterday. Two other inebriates were brought in last evening and locked up,
Margaret Davis was arrested at Tenth avenue and Fourteenth street at 9:40
p.m. yesterday for drunkenness. Later a fourth drunk was arrested.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
OFFICERS FOR GLASS CASKET CO. ELECTED
Prominent Blair Countians Are Identified With Organization at the Annual
Meeting
STOCKHOLDERS MET YESTERDAY
Officers were elected and reports of progress made during the first year
of its existence, at the initial annual meeting of the Glass Casket
corporation stockholders, yesterday afternoon at the main office in Central
Trust building.
Stockholders from all sections of this state, and Ohio and New York were
present. General Manager S. W. Manning, who has been in charge of the
corporation's affairs since the recent death of President G. W. Mellon, made
a report of work accomplished during the year. He stated that, despite the
handicaps incident to the war and difficulty of securing labor and material,
five substantial buildings, of brick and cement, are practically completed.
The corporation is without debt and has cash reserves that will permit the
continuation of work just as soon as weather conditions warrant a resumption
of building operations. He made the prediction that actual production will
begin some time during the summer, and he declared that every indication
pointed to a very successful and profitable operation. The stockholders
were gratified with the fine results already accomplished and voted
confidence in the management.
The stockholders elected the following directors: V. T. Able, coal
operator and banker at Hastings; C. A. Patterson, of Williamsburg, president
of First National bank of Martinsburg; John B. Isett, retired capitalist, of
Isett; George P. Gable, of W. F. Gable & Co., of Altoona; C. M. Kelley, of
Altoona; F. A. Vickrey, secretary, Modern Glass company, of Toledo, O.; S.
W. Manning, of Altoona; J. C. Gutwald, director, First National bank,
Cresson; William Weber, president, Weber Coal company and capitalist,
Howard, Pa.; F. E. Kriley, retired oil operator, Bolivar, N. Y.,; Charles C.
Mitchell, funeral director, Connellsville; S. S. Horton, cashier, First
National bank of Martinsburg.
After the stockholders' meeting had adjourned the directors organized and
elected the following officers: President, S. W. Manning; vice-president,
John B. Isett; treasurer, S. S. Metz, treasurer of Mountain City Trust
company, Altoona; secretary, William Weber, of Howard; executive and
building committee, C. A. Paterson, of Williamsburg; V. T. Able, of
Hastings, and Charles M. Kelley, of Altoona; general counsel, Oliver H.
Hewitt, of Hollidaysburg.
Mr. Hewitt, who has been counsel for several months, advised the
stockholders and assisted in the organization of the meeting. His loyal and
valuable services were made the basis of a minute of commendation by the
board of directors.
The election of directors was conducted by a board of judges composed of
D. W. B. Murphy and Paul Kaffszke, of Altoona, and S. C. Whipkey, of
Connellsville.
The stockholders of the Glass Casket corporation have every reason to be
satisfied with the encouraging outlook that confronts their organization.
While the company has not been completely financed, there is pledged to the
management what assistance may be needed to complete the buildings and
install machinery. When completed the local plant will be the largest and
most complete glass manufacturing plant in the United States, modern in
every particular, adapted to the manufacture of the specialty for which it
controls valuable patents.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
VICTORY ARCH IS NEAR COMPLETION
Fine Letter Received from Kiwanis Club Endorses Project-Rotary Club Gives
$100
The much talked of Victory Arch that is nearing completion on Eleventh
avenue and Twelfth street will be finished within the next four or five
days. Meanwhile due to the efforts of the War Mothers and the Red Cross
canteen workers who have made canvasses from house to house, the building
fund has reached the $2,000 mark.
The following contributions have so far been received from business firms
and organizations, though as yet there has been no canvass made of the
business section:
Rotary club, $100.00
S. March & Son, $50.00
Altoona Mirror, $25.00
Beacon Light Club, $10.00
Council of Jewish Women, $10.00
St. Mark's L.C.B.A., $5.00
Ioka Council 134, Degree of Pocahontas, $2.00
Ladies' auxiliary to Knights Templar No. 16, $5.00
Yesterday a very fine letter was received from the Kiwanis club, in which
they went on record as heartily endorsing the Victory Arch project and ended
by saying that they would send a contribution from the club within a short
time.
While the contributions are still coming in, it is hoped that within the
next week the bulk of the fund will have been subscribed. Meanwhile, if you
have not as yet received your button you can procure it at the canteen
headquarters, 1012 Twelfth street. The arch when completed will cost $5,000
and will be a thing of beauty that will endure until the last boy comes
home.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
RECEPTION FOR BOYS OF 19TH ENGINEERS
Local Organization Will Hold Meeting Tomorrow Evening to Further Plans
The Altoona and Blair county boys serving with the Nineteenth Engineers
are going to get a regular reception when they reach the states and this
city. The 19th Engineers association will hold a meeting tomorrow evening
in the schedule room, old Hotel Royal building at Tenth avenue and
Thirteenth street to further the plans and to speed up the home coming of
the boys.
There are more than a hundred local boys with the 19th Engineers in France
and they have been over there for a long time, having been among the first
regiments to be transported across the Atlantic. They have accomplished a
wonderful work in rebuilding the French railroads and with the war at end
their friends back home believe they should be returned home. Efforts to
have the boys returned home and discharged that they might resume their work
in the industrial world at home, have already been made and it is possible
that before long that the majority of them will again cross the Atlantic and
be home before another month passes around.
There was a meeting of the reception committee of the organization held
last evening at the home of Mrs. Fultz, 1107 Thirteenth avenue, at which a
definite plan for receiving the boys was outlined and will be presented to
the general organization tomorrow evening. The welcome will be one that
will be sure to meet with the boys and it will afford them to mingle and
meet with their relatives and friends and enjoy a regular evening of
pleasure at home.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
PENNSYLVANIA BOYS WILL STAY OVERSEAS
Twenty-eighth Division to Remain as Part of the Army of Occupation
The 110th regiment of the Twenty-Eighth division is not coming home very
soon despite rumors on the street yesterday as the result of publication
made in a Pittsburg paper to that effect. The division is to be continued
as a part of the army of occupation.
The rumor became current as the result of a letter from a soldier from
Uniontown with the 110th regiment which stated that the regiment was under
sailing orders and would leave France on February 15 and would arrive in New
York about March 1.
The war department at Washington has nothing to indicate the early return
of the 28th division. It remains part of the army of occupation and is
expected to remain overseas until peace is signed or American units are
finally withdrawn.
Along with the rumor that the 28th division came another statement that
will be interesting to the people of this vicinity. It is that the 305th
Trench mortar battery, a unit of the Eightieth division had been placed on
the priority list and would return soon.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
HOMELESS BOY GETS GUARDIAN TO ENLIST
James A. McDowell, Aged 17 Years, Joins Uncle Sam's Navy to Find Home
James Alfonso McDowell, aged 17 years and homeless is happily on his way
to Newport, R.I. and when he reaches there he hopes to have a home aboard
one of Uncle Sam's fighting ships in the very near future. He was enlisted
here by Mate Weiss, in charge of the local naval recruiting office.
McDowell has a brother in the army and a sister some place he don't know
where, and his parents are dead. He became tired of being buffeted around
the country and decided that the navy offered him the best chance to make a
man of himself. He was too young to enlist as he had to get the consent of
his parents or guardian. He had neither but he got the latter Monday when
his case was taken before the court and Walter S. Greevy gave his consent to
his enlistment and McDowell is now in the navy. He wrote Mate Weiss from
New York and says that he is satisfied and glad he joined.
Mate Weiss last night sent three other recruits to Pittsburg for
examination and acceptance. They were Joseph Truty, of Buffalo; William J.
Zimmers, of Johnstown and Michael Kaprzak, of Cleveland. All are mechanics
and wanted to get additional training at their trades.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
CITIZENS ASKED ABOUT DESTROYED CEMETERIES
Persons Knowing of Obliterated Burial Grounds Can Furnish Valuable Data
Altoonans possessing information about obliterated cemeteries which
succumbed to the trend of progress, as the city reached out and absorbed new
territory, are urged to give such data to John Western, Chicago, according
to letters received by City Clerk Walter J. Hamor.
Mr. Western, who is president of the Modern Cemetery and Mausoleum
company, writes that this inquiry is made solely for the benefit of the
cause of making permanent American places of interment of mortal remains,
and to ascertain if Americans are not a half century behind other countries
in this important matter.
The Chicagoan points out that in the pioneer era of the nation's history,
early settlers often were compelled to place their dead in private burial
grounds because no regular cemeteries were within reasonable distance.
Succeeding generations obliterated all trace of such graves. Later on such
places were destroyed by judicial procedure a generation or two after they
were established, and contained the remains of hundreds of human beings.
All persons knowing of such destructions of burial grounds in the city,
towns or villages, counties or townships adjacent to the city are urged to
communicate with Mr. Western, the letter to the city clerk states. The
assembled information is to be given newspaper and magazine publicity to
arouse public sentiment favoring intelligent and adequate means of
perpetually caring for and protecting places of human interment throughout
the country.
Several obliterated cemetery locations are known of here. One in the
Bridge street region used to frequently yield a skull or part of human
bones, when new buildings were started or excavating was gotten under way.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
ALTOONA RECOGNIZED IN MECHANICAL WORLD
Charles V. Mathews Selected to Erect Biggest Triple Expansion Engine
Altoona is noted the world over for turning out finished railway
mechanics, and this fact was most emphatically demonstrated in the big world
war by the part they played in railway construction in France. This fact
has again been recently demonstrated by the selection of Charles V. Mathews,
a native Altoona boy and a finished mechanic of the local shops, being
selected by the Westinghouse company to erect the world's biggest triple
expansion engine at Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Charles V. Mathews is a young man, but one that was inclined to mechanics
and who devoted his energies to becoming a finished railway mechanic. He
was schooled in the city, learned his trade in the local shops and for a
number of years worked in the Juniata shops. He recently left the city and
entered the service of the Westinghouse company at Pittsburg. There his
ability was soon recognized and he became known as one of the experts of the
big industry.
He left Pittsburg January 20 for Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and his mission
there was to erect a big triple expansion engine for the J. G. White
Engineering company for the use of the U.S. Nitrate plant at that point.
His selection is a recognition of his ability as a mechanic and a workman.
He will have a number of men under his supervision and when the work is
completed will mean a step higher in the mechanical world.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
PITTSBURG MAN IS GIVEN POST HERE
D. F. Downes Succeeds E. F. McKenzie as Assistant Trainmaster on Pittsburg
Division
Announcement was made yesterday by Superintendent R. T. Morrow, of the
Pittsburg division, that J. S. Fleck had been appointed acting freight
trainmaster of the division, vice W. A. Sheaffer, transferred.
D. F. Downes, of Pittsburg, has been appointed assistant trainmaster, with
offices in this city. He succeeds E. F. McKenzie, transferred. The
latter's position has not been named yet, as he is still here, but expects
to take his new job shortly.
The changes are effective as of February 3. Mr. McKenzie has been located
in this city as assistant trainmaster of the division since last year. No
announcement was made concerning the new position for Mr. Sheaffer. Mr.
Downes comes here from the Pittsburg office of Mr. Sheaffer.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
WELFARE BOARD IS APPOINTED FOR 1919
Work This Year Promises to Be Far More Important Than During 1918
New members of the city welfare board to serve during 1919, were appointed
and approved by council at the regular session yesterday afternoon, when it
was pointed out that the work this year would be more important than last.
Mrs. R. C. Esterline, Attorney Isaiah Scheeline, Dr. G. D. Bliss, W. L.
Salyards and Charles W. Woods will compose the board this year. They will
meet in the near future to reorganize and prepare the details of the
activities planned for 1919. The visiting nurse is expected to arrive here
soon, and begin her duties.
A resolution by Mayor C. E. Rhodes which adopts the poetic memorial
tribute to Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, by Dr. I. P. Patch, was presented and
adopted. The poem was read to council in an impressive manner by City Clerk
Walter J. Hamor. The memorial will be sent to Mrs. Roosevelt and the family
of the late ex-president, when it has been engrossed [embossed?] by W. P.
Beardsley, on vellum donated by William F. Gable, and framed appropriately
by W. H. Bartle, the frame being the gift of W. S. Aaron.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10
SPECIAL TRAIN FROM CITY TO JOHNSTOWN
Altoonans May Leave at 1:45 P.M. Today for Celebration Honoring General
Menoher
Several hundred Altoona residents expect to participate in the celebration
at Johnstown today in honor of General Charles T. Menoher, leader of the
famous Rainbow division, and a special train will leave the city at 1:45
this afternoon.
Mayor Charles E. Rhodes and all city commissioners have been appointed
members of a reception committee by Mayor Louis Franke, of Johnstown. The
mayor and members of the city commission stated yesterday afternoon that
they would attend. A communication from Mayor Franke requests that they
report at the local passenger station at 1:45. A committee from Johnstown
is to come here and escort the Altoonans to the former city.
General Menoher returns to Johnstown, his home city, for three days, each
of which is to be given over to celebrating by the populace. The general
succeeds General William A. Mann, a former Altoonan, as leader of the
historic Rainbow division of fighters in France. Johnstown has planned many
notable features for the occasion. Governor Sproul and state officials are
to attend.
Altoona Tribune, Wednesday, February 5, 1919, page 10