Conestoga News

8/28/2007


The Columbia Spy
March 10, 1831
A large he wolf was shot in Conestoga township, Lancaster County, about ten miles from this, on Thursday morning the 24th ult. He had been in the neighborhood about three years, and during that time had caused the death of many an innocent lamb. The dogs which were kept on the farm where he was shot, had become so familiar with him, that they would sport with him on one of their own species; and he was actually playing with one of them at the time he met his death

The Columbia Spy
March 1, 1832
Married
On Sunday, the 26th ultimo, by Michael Strein, Esq., Mr. Michael Sourbeer, of Conestoga township, to Miss Fanny Nesselrode, of Manor township.

The Columbia Spy
May 31, 1832
Died
On the 19th inst. in Conestoga township, at the residence of Martin Good, Mr. Joseph Brua, in the 39th year of his age.

The Columbia Spy
Aug. 31., 1833
Married
In Philadelphia, on the 19th inst., by Alderman Samuel Badger, Mr. John Lewis Messenkope, of the city of Lancaster, to Miss Ann Breneman, of Conestoga township, Lancaster County.

Lancaster Examiner and Herald
March 6, 1834
Conestoga Meeting
At a large respectable meeting of the Anti-masons of Conestoga township in the county of Lancaster, held at the public house of E. Kendig, in said township, on Saturday, the 1st day of March, 1834, Jacob Fehl, Jr. was called to the chair, and Benjamin Good and John McCartney were appointed Secretaries. The object of the meeting being stated, it was moved that a committee be appointed to draft a report, expressive of the sense of this meeting. Whereupon, John Bachman, Sr., George Urban, Christian Roher, John Kendig, Jacob Frantz, Thos. Duke, Samuel Hess, Jr., Rudolph Harnish, Peter Miller, Jr., Christian Sternamen, Benjamin Mehaffy, Joseph Morrison, Christ'n Henry, Peter Warfel, Michael Henry, John Henry, Martin Good, Dr. John Kendig, Joseph Bleecher, Valentine Hart, and Adam Duke, were appointed, who reported the following preamble and resolutions which were unanimously adopted, viz:
The election of President of the United States and Governor of Pennsylvania is fast approaching. The Masonic party have already announced their candidates for each of these high stations. They are everywhere mustering their forces and preparing for the approaching conflicts - and shall we lie dormant on the same occasion, when there is nothing wanting to secure the success of our won principals, but unanimity, "perseverance," & known and well tried anti-Masonic candidates for each of these high stations. Policy and expediency alike require that we should meet the enemy now, by the nomination of such candidates as will be most likely to secure the anti-Masonic party against coalitions, or entangling alliances, with either men or measures. We want to try the "issue joined" between masonry and anti-masonry on its own merits, independent of every other measure or interest. Therefore we offer the following, viz: -
Resolved That the Honorable Richard Rush be recommended by this meeting to the National Anti-Masonic Convention, for President of the United States.
Resolved That we recommend the renomination of Joseph Ritner, of Washington county, for the office of Governor of Pennsylvania.
Resolved That the thanks of this meeting are due to the Hon. John Q. Adams, for his efficiency, ability and perseverance in the cause of anti-masonry.
Resolved, That although we believe the nominations of Messrs. Ruch and Ritner, to be essential to the preservation of the pure principles of anti-masonry, yet never the less should the Democratic Anti-Masonic National and State Conventions think otherwise, and nominate any other firm, decided and uncompressing anti-masons to fill these offices, such as Messrs, Adams, Everett, Spencer, Tracy, or Hanna, we will cordially yield our preferences and support the nominations made by the Convention or Conventions.
Resolved That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by its officers and published in the anti-Masonic newspapers.
                                                       Jacob Fehl, Jr. Ch'n
                                                       Benjamin Good
                                                       John M'Cartney

Committee of Vigilance Jacob Fehl, Jr. John Bachman, Benjamin Good.

The name Haverstick shows up on Scott�s 1824 Map of Conestoga (now Pequea Township), along the Conestoga River, that is probably this mill property. See the map on our page at
The Columbia Spy
October 25, 1834
FIRST RATE
MILL PROPERTY
AT PUBLIC SALE
Will be sold, on Friday, the 14th day of November, on the premises, that valuable
MERCHANT MILL,
And tract of first-rate
LIMESTONE LAND,
Situated on the second lock fo the Conestoga river, two and a half miles from the city of Lancaster. The Mill, (formerly Haverstick�s) is one of the best in the county, built of stone, two stories high, with two water wheels, three pair of French Burrs, a pair of country and a pair of shelling stones. The building is commodious and the whole weight of the Conestoga and Mill creeks, - The head and fall is eight feet six inches, and the spare power sufficient for works of much great extent. The dam belongs to the Conestoga Navigation Company, which is bound to keep it in order at all times. The Farm belonging to the Mill contains
57 ACRES AND 34 PERCHES
Of first rate LIMESTONE LAND, extending along the Conestoga about a half mile, all under good fence and in good order. The improvements are a good two-story DWELLING,
Three rooms and an entry on the first floor, and a cellar under the whole. The Barn is forty by seventy feet, the lower story stone the upper frame. - There is a good Spring House over it, convenient and a pump of excellent water in the porch. The extra water power could be profitably employed in driving a Saw Mill, or any other works.
Sale will commence at 2 o�clock in the afternoon of said day.
The property will be shown by Mr. Henry Crise on the premises. Attendance will be given and terms made known by
                                                                    HUGH MEHAFFY
                                                                    HENRY CARPENTER
                                                                    Assignees of Henry Crise

The Columbia Spy
November 19, 1836
Notice
Whereas my wife Sarah has left my bed and board without any just cause, this is to caution all persons from trusting her on my account as I am determined to pay no debts of her contracting after this date.
                                                                                    Washington Cooper
Near Safe Harbor, Oct. 29, 1836

The Columbia Spy
March 25, 1848
In the matter of the intended application of R. W. Randall, to the Court of Quarter Sessions at the April term for license to keep a tavern in the Village of Safe Harbor.
We the undersigned citizens of the village of Safe Harbor, in which said tavern is proposed to be kept, do certify that the said tavern is necessary to accommodate the public and entertain strangers and travelers, and that we are well acquainted with the said R. W. Randall, and that he is of good repute for honesty and temperance, and is well provided with house room and conveniences for the accommodation of strangers and travelers.
W. D. Applegate, Aaron Kendig, P. Hoffman, J. M. Perkins, Edward Hess, Jonas Sourbeer, John H, Shue, Amos Hess, Wm. Bowen, Wm. Rose, Christian Ohmin, Jacob Detrich, Jr. March 18, 1848.

The Columbia Spy
December 7, 1850
HESS�S MANSION HOUSE
SAFE HARBOR, LANCASTER COL, PA.
So pleasantly situated on the east bank of the Conestoga, at the junction with the Susquehanna river, is now completely finished and fitted up in the most elegant and convenient manner.
The house being large and commodious the proprietor will be enabled to extend every facility of accommodation required to make his house one of the most pleasant and agreeable in the county.
                                                                 GEO. H. HESS
                                                                Safe Harbor, June 8, 1850

Intelligencer
December 10, 1850
On the 28th ult., by the same (Rev. J. J. Strine,) Mr. Michael Zercher, to Miss Juliann Templeton, both of Conestoga township.

Intelligencer & Journal
December 24, 1850
By the same (Rev. J. C. Baker), Abraham Hess, to Miss Elizabeth Hess, both of Conestoga.

Saturday Express
November 19, 1853
MARRIED
WATKINS-KENDIG November 10th, in this city, by Rev. J. J. Strine, John R. Watkins to Margaretta Ann Kendig, both of Safe Harbor, Lancaster co.

Saturday Express
November 26, 1853
MARRIED
EICHLEBERGER-OVERLANDER November 15th by Rev. Wm. Bishop, Henry F. Eichleberger of Martic and Sarah Overlander of Save Harbor, Lancaster co.

Saturday Evening Express
December 10, 1853
MARRIED
HACKMAN-RESSEL. November 27th, by the same (J.J. Strine) Henry Hackman to Martha Ressel, both of Conestoga, Lancaster county.

Saturday Express
December 31, 1853
MARRIED
WILSON-HUBLEY December 20, by Rev. J. H. Mengas, Hiram Wilson of Columbia, to Elizabeth A. Hubley, of Safe Harbor.

Saturday Express
January 7, 1854
MARRIED
GREEN-LIVINGSTON, November 29th by the same (Rev. J. H. Mengas) William Greer to Isabel Livingston, both of Safe Harbor, Lancaster county.

Saturday Express
January 21, 1854
MARRIED
BOOK-LINDEMAN. January 10, by Rev. J. Hostetter, David Book to Mary Lindeman, both of Conestoga, Lancaster co.
Saturday Express
January 28, 1854
MARRIED
ECKMAN-BURKHOLDER January 20th, by Rev. W. Goodrich, John Eckman, of Drumore twp., to Fanny Burkholder, of Conestoga twp., Lancaster county.
The Columbia Spy
March 5, 1856
Town and Country Matters
Another -On the same night (March 1st, 1856) the clothing store of Herman Kuhns, in Safe Harbor, was entered by forcing open the shutters of one of the windows, and a quantity of ready made clothing stolen. A man named Simon Cooper was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of being concerned in the robbery and committed to the county prison. His accomplice who is suppose to be a man by the name of Jackson has not been arrested yet.>br>
Examiner & Herald
March 19, 1856
CONESTOGA TOWNSHIP- The citizens of Conestoga township, met at the public house of Mrs. Eckman, in Conestoga Centre, on Saturday March 15th inst. John Kolp was called to the chair, and Francis B. Groff appointed Secretary.
The following anti-Jug Law and anti-Know Nothing ticket was unanimously settled:
Judge -                Martin B. Mellinger
                                     Inspector - Jno. Hess, (Farmer)
                                     Assessor - Jno. K. Barr.
                                     Supervisors - Christian K. Miller, Martin Good.
                                     School Directors - Jno. Martin, Esq., Christian Kendig, (Farmer).
                                     Auditor - Benjamin Good.
                                    Township Clerk - Frederick Sourbeer.
                                    Constable - Francis B. Groff
The above ticket is entitled to a united support by all those who are opposed to the mischievous Jug Law, and to the secret oath bound political organization called Know Nothings. Every candidate, from judge down to constable, are men of experience and stern integrity - all active, energetic business men - in every sense well qualified for the post for which they were nominated. The interest of the township, in their hands, would be vigilently guarded.
To the Polls, then, on Friday next. Let every voter who is friendly to the constitution and the union of this great Republic, turn out, and the day will be yours, and every pure minded man who has erred and strayed away from our old, well tried republican institutions, and conspired in favor of political intolerance and persecuting bigotry, should return to correct views and sustain the above ticket, in opposition to the ticket which will be patched up by the discipline of this new midnight faction.
                               BY ORDER OF THE MEETING

Marriages
On the 12th inst., by the same (Rev. J. J. Strine) John A. Smith, of Safe Harbor, to Mary Jane Eckman, of Conestoga Centre.

Examiner and Herald
March 26, 1856
ELECTION IN CONESTOGA TOWNSHIP. - At this election the fusionists elected three out of the nine township officers, and the balance of the Know-Nothings were only elected by the trebling majority of seven, when at last Spring and Fall elections the Know-Nothings swept everything; showing a large decrease from former elections. The Know-Nothings made every effort to get out their full strength, as if this were their last struggle. But for the want of a little better organization and a better turn out by the fusion, they, would have beaten the Know-Nothings all to pieces. All the fusion wants, is another turn at them and they will make them hide like the Americans did the Hessians.
In the Safe Harbor School District, the fusion ticket had no opposition. Notwithstanding a slimy renegade Whig, resorted to all manner of low, dirty proscriptive measures, to the extent that superstition and bigotry can lead a man too, to bolster up a Know-Nothing
ticket in opposition to the one which was unanimously settled, and composed of some of the most honest and intelligent men in the place, only because there happened to be two out of five candidates, for School Directors, Catholics. James O'Connor and John Maden are both men of high mental attainments and far superior to their slanderer in common sense, intelligence and religious liberality.
In the meeting which nominated the above ticket were J. Griffin, Esq., Col. Ramsey, S. M. Wright, D. Davis, A. Varley, M. E. Mellinger and others, among the best and most respectable citizens in the village.
It would become B---y a little better by attending to his business, and exercise a little more common sense, than to undertake to proscribe and persecute better men than himself.
                                                                                             A Citizen

SUSPENDED OPERATIONS. - The Safe Harbor Iron Works have suspended operations for a few days in consequence of having run out of coal. It is thought that by the first of April they will have a full supply when the works will again be put in operation.

Saturday Express
April 26, 1856
MARRIED
WIEDLICH-WILSON, April 15th at Safe Harbor, by Rev. J. B. Dennison, Godfried Wiedlich to Susanna Wilson, all of this county.
DIEHL-KLINE April 19th, by Rev. John W. Hoffmeier, , John Adam Diehl to Matilda Kline, both of Conestoga Centre.

Died
HOOPES, April 16th at Colemanville, Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Maris Hoopes.
Lancaster Examiner & Herald
April 30, 1856
DEATHS
In Conestoga township, on the 17th inst., Jacob McCallister, in the 69th year of his age.
Proceedings of the Court of Quarter Sessions
The next case called was one in which Leah Holsinger, a gay molasses and water colored grass widow was defendant, and Clara Ann Butler, also colored, complainant. The indictment charged the dusky hued Leah with keeping a bawdy and disorderly house in the village of Safe Harbor. The testimony divulged the fact that Leah is a married woman, although she does not cohabit with her husband, and that she keeps a boarding house in order to earn a livelihood. It also appeared that the husband of the complainant was in the habit of spending a considerable part of his time in the house of Leah, thereby neglecting his own wedded wife, and giving rise to scandalous reports in the neighborhood. From this circumstance the inference is a fair one, that the green-eyed monster, jealously, had something to do with the prosecution. The commonwealth utterly failed in making out their case, adducing no evidence, whatever, to sustain the charge. - All the witnesses upon the stand testified that they never saw any disorderly or improper conduct in Leah's house. One of them, a black fellow with a fox-like look, said that he occupied one part of the house and never was disturbed in the night or day time; that no person who visited there was any worse than he was, and he was good enough for the commonwealth's witness; that the only jollification they had was when he bought a quart of whiskey on Saturday night to serve for his Sunday bitters. The case went to the jury, after a brief charge from the court, and terminated with a verdict of acquittal and county for costs.

Saturday Express
May 3, 1856
MARRIED
BAKER-STAMBAUCH April 24th, at Safe Harbor, by Rev. J. B. Dennison, James P. Baker to Elizabeth Stambauch, both of Safe Harbor.

The Intelligencer says Jacob died on the 18th of April
DIED
MC CALLISTER April 15, in Conestoga township, Jacob Mc Callister, age 69 years.

This newspaper report is somewhat confusing, it appears that this notice appeared 3 days before Conrad died. According to their tombstones, Benjamin died April 5, 1856 and was 32 years, 2 months old while Conrad died May 6, 1856, aged 76years 1 month and 2 days.
Intelligencer
June 4, 1856
In Conestoga Centre, on the 5th ult., Benjamin Sourbeer, aged 32 years; and on the 6th inst., Conrad Sourbeer, in the 77th year of his age.
"Tis but a short time since the family of the above was obliged to part with one of its dearest members, and now it must mourn the loss of its aged patriarch.
The deceased were members of the Church of Christ, and died with the same blessed hope of a happy resurrection. - The survivors have the best assurance that if they do believe, they will meet the departed ones in eternal happiness.

The Columbia Spy
June 7, 1856
MARRIED
On the 1st instant, by the Rev. Dr. J. W. Nevin, Mr. Abner C. Urban, of Conestoga Centre, to Miss Elizabeth Haines, of this place. (Columbia)

Examiner and Herald
June 18, 1856
MARRIAGES
On the 8th inst., by the Rev. J. H. Menges, Henry Sourbeer, of Safe Harbor, to Catharine McMullen, of Columbia.

Lancaster Examiner & Herald
September 3, 1856
NEW LINE TO SAFE HARBOR - A new line of stages to Safe Harbor has been established by Hostetter, Deeg & Co. The stage leaves Hostetter's tavern, Lancaster, every afternoon at 4 o'clock, and A. S. Gillets' Hotel, Safe Harbor at 7 o'clock in the morning. The line connects at Lancaster with the Manheim and Lebanon stages going through from Safe Harbor to Lebanon on the same day.
MARRIAGES
On the 20th ult., by Rev. B. W. Schmaul, Joan Kemhke to Fredericka Fisher, both of Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
September 27, 1856
UNION MEETING - In pursuance of the call, the first Union demonstration was held in the market house last night. The attendance was large and respectable, to hear excellent addresses by a gentleman from Massachusetts, Dr. C. M. Johnson, and J. W. Fisher, Esq.
This afternoon delegations will leave town to attend meetings in Marietta, Mount Pleasant, Mount Joy and Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
December 20, 1856
DIED
On the 15th instant, Mrs. John Kolp, of Safe Harbor, in the 45th year of her age.

The Columbia Spy
September 12, 1857
A Woods Meeting
Will be held, "providence permitting, one mile from the town of Washington, on the old Mansion Farm of the late Henry Wertz, dec�d, commencing on Saturday, the 19th inst., to continue over Sunday. Preaching on Saturday at 3 P.M. by Rev. T. Montgomery, of Marietta, and in the evening at 7:30 o�clock; on Sunday at 10 A.M., by Rev. F. Hodgson, D.D., of Lancaster, at 3 P.M. by Rev. Wm. Burns, of Columbia, and in the evening at 7:30 o�clock. The public is respectfully invited.
Dinner and horse feed provided on the ground.
Safe Harbor, Sept. 11, 1857.

Lancaster Express
February 24, 1858
A SERIOUS CHARGE. ARREST - Last evening between five and six o'clock, Benjamin Markely, a stage driver between Lancaster and Safe Harbor, broke into the Post office at the latter place, smashing into the panels of the door, while the post master had gone home to supper. Mr. Malhorn saw Markley break in and ran at once to prevent further mischief. The obstrepous individual called him hard names, attempted to jump over the counter, and behaved in a very violent manner compelling Mr. Malhorn to draw a "shooting iron" on him, when he reluctantly surrendered. Mr. Malhorn entered a complaint before Esquire Mehaffy, of Conestoga township, who caused Markley to be arrested and held him to bail for his appearance at Court. The man was intoxicated at the time, which probably accounts for his disorderly and violent conduct. -Express of Saturday.

THE OTHER SIDE - Mr. Markley, one of the parties to the affair at Safe Harbor, informs us that the report does him injustice, and that our informant was mistaken. He says he went to the Post office with some letters entrusted to his care and that it was after the Post master came in that Mr. Malhorn came over, insulted him, and threw a couple of weights and a pitcher at his head. He denies the breaking of the doors and the fact of intoxication at the time, and according to his statement, Mr. Malhorn would be the aggressor.

Hydrophobia is another name for Rabies, and one of the symptoms is a difficulty swallowing with leads to an unwillingness to drink water, hence the name.
Examiner & Herald
March 24, 1858
ANOTHER CASE OF HYDROPHOBIA - We learn that a young boy named Jones, residing with his parents in Conestoga Centre, this county, was attacked by all the symptoms of hydrophobia on Monday last, and that there is not the slightest hope of his recovery. He was bitten by a dog, supposed to be mad, nearly two years ago, but the wound had healed rapidly, and up to Monday no unpleasant effects had resulted from it. This is the second case of hydrophobia that has occurred in this county within the past month. When will people realize the truth that one human life is worth more than all the useless curs in the union.

POSTMASTERS APPOINTED Jacob Kauffman at Slackwater, in place of S. Metzar, who resigned.
A.R. Hess at Safe Harbor, in place of John Kolp, resigned.

Examiner & Herald
April 21,1858
DROWNED -An Irishman, whose name we have not learned, was drowned in the river at Safe Harbor on Wednesday last. Cause - Rum.

This is the same person who died at Chancellorsville on May 9, 1863, he is buried at the AME cemetery as Samuel Cooper. See "Two Civil War Soldiers" on this web page for additional details on Simon/Samuel.
Examiner and Herald
April, 28 1858
Simon Cooper, a bright looking, young mulatto fellow was convicted of breaking into the store of Loeb & Co., in the village of Safe Harbor, on the night of the 1st of March 1856, and stealing there from two coats of the value of $11.00, and sentence to nine months in the County prison.

Evening Express
May 1, 1858
The Safe Harbor folks have replaced the "racking" destroyed by the Columbians, and we noticed some fine Harbor shad in the market this morning.

The Great Fish War between Columbia and Safe Harbor. S.H. blocked the passage of fish, allowing them to catch all the shad. The Columbians came down the river in canoes and knocked down the obstructions, the Safe Harbor people threatened to blow them out of the water with their Griffin Gun.
The Columbia Spy
May 8th, 1858
The Great Fish Question
Congress having settled the Kansas question, and the municipal elections in the city of Philadelphia and the borough of York having come off, we had indulged in visions of delightful calm and freedom from the angry discussion of the distracting questions of the day. We had laid out for ourself a tranquil existence, disturbed only by occasional Spring freshets, which should endure even till the next general election for School Directors. We had resolved upon editorial notice of :"Spring," and had got so far as "How pleasant it is," when our deep peace was disturbed, the calm, pure current of our stream (the Susquehanna) troubled.
Our readers will recall the "fish question," which so lately threatened to grow into a rupture between our own government and that of her Britannic Majesty, but which was eventually settled without appear to arms. Alas, this bone of contention has again been dragged to light; and two great peoples are on the eve of sanguinary hostilities because of shad. War has been declared as existing between the fishermen (a large majority of the inhabitants) of the Principality of Safe Harbor, and the picadors of our own town, one pitched battle having taken place. Fish, as we have said, are at the bottom of the difference, shad forming the broad foundation upon which a superstructure of salmon, rock, perch, mullets, suckers, &c., rises, constitution a remarkable pretty subject of quarrel.
The "Harbor" fishers charge that the Columbians descended the river in canoes, and, by force of arms, seized and destroyed private property, to the serious detriment of the owners thereof. They aver that the attack was unprovoked, and threaten dire and speedy retaliation and vengeance.
Our people, on the other hand, claim that they acted legally, and in self defense; that the fishermen of Harbor had, contrary to law and justice, erected rackings along the canal dam, thus preventing all fish from ascending the stream, thereby increasing their own "catch" of shad, salmon, mullets, and other of the finny tribes-upon which the inhabitants of that town and the adjacent province principally live and thrive-and utterly doing away the profits of the fisheries in the river above the mouth of the Conestoga.
The incursion occurred on Tuesday of last week, and the excitement occasioned by it in the usually peaceful town below us was frightful; it is even said that the Griffin "cannon was brought out. We who have tarried in Harbor during the "season" a patiently interested listener to the unceasing and unadulterated fish-talk of the frequenters of the Mansion House, can imagine the majestic flow of piscatorial vituperation on this unprecedented occasion. How the flood-gates of fishy wrath must have opened, and what a stream of finny, bony, scaly indignation must have gurgled and foamed from the outraged "fish-pots". What denunciations must have been hurled at the offenders, and how exceedingly provocative of thirst the fishy subject must have proved!
We are not well enough informed of the nature of the obstructions placed in the stream by the Safe Harbor men to form an opinion as to the propriety of the action of our fisherman. The following section from an Act of Assembly, passed during the session of 1851, provides a sufficient remedy for obstructions of the river by the dams of the Susquehanna Canal Company.
Section 9. It shall be the duty of the Susquehanna canal company to cause to be constructed at the cams erected by them across the river Susquehanna, a sluice of the passage of fish, over which at least on foot of water shall pass from the first day of April to the fifteenth day of May of each year; the said sluice to extend along the breast of the dam the distance of from one hundred and fifty to two hundred yards, in proportion to the width of the river at dams, and to be constructed at and immediately opposite the main channel form the dam down stream, by steps of eighteen inches perpendicular fall, and horizontal platforms at the base of each step of forty feet in width: and if said company shall neglect or refuse to construct said sluices in the manner herein specified for the pace of one year after the passage of this act, the said dams shall be deemed a nuisance, and may be abated as other nuisances may be abated according to the laws of this Commonwealth.
It is asserted, however, that the racking destroyed by the Columbians was attached to the dam by the Harbor fishermen, and not by the authority of the company. We cannot, therefore, without further evidence than hearsay, pronounce either party in the right, except upon the broad, unimpeachable principle that a Columbian cannot be in the wrong.
The law has been applied to, and a decision which will serve as a precedent for all future time, is confidently looked for during the sign of Douglas.

Lancaster Examiner and Herald
May 19, 1858
MARRIED
On the 12th inst., at Safe Harbor, Lanc. Co., by the Rev. C. Walter, Jacob H. Rohrer of Harrisburg, to Catharine Hess, of Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
July 31, 1858
At Safe Harbor the Rolling Mill is about being or has just been started-good news for the hands.

The Philadelphia Press
August 5, 1858
FROM LANCASTER
We will now go to Safe Harbor, situated at the confluence of the Conestoga with the Susquehanna. Here I think is some of the most beautiful scenery in the State. The well-known Safe Harbor Iron Works are here, and a portion of the works occupy an acre of ground under one roof. A party of three of us left Lancaster about five o'clock in the morning to enjoy a days fishing at this place. We put up at the Harbor House, the obliging proprietor of which supplied us with tackle, &c., and procured a man o find bait and to boat us to the fishing ground. We continued our fishing on and off during the day, and caught between three and four hundred fish, principally rock, some of which weighed two, three, and four pounds. A large mess was served up for breakfast the next morning in fine style at Anthony Lechler's Lancaster County House, in Lancaster.
I am surprised than an enterprising company of men have not come up here, bought the Harbor House, and fitted it up. Why, at an outlay of some fifteen or twenty thousand dollars, it would make the finest watering-place in the country. The house is at the mouth of the Conestoga, about fifteen feet above the water. At the back of the house, rises a very high hill, about the top of which are several fine springs, from which water could be forced through the whole house; and an observatory built on this mountain would give a most magnificent view of the country for miles around. Opposite to this, on the York county side of the Susquehanna, which is here about two miles wide, is a range of wooded hills, on which squirrels and such game abound, and once in awhile some larger , as foxes and deer are seen, which in the fall and spring wild pigeons and ducks can be shot, in any quantity. There is splendid boating on the river, and unrivalled fishing-shad in season, rockfish, carp, perch, and many other species abound. Even now there is a very find natural bathing ground across the Conestoga, on the Susquehanna, with a fine sandy bottom, and a shelving shore; and besides, from the great supply of water on the hill behind the Harbor House, baths could be constructed at many points on the hill itself.
We remained here until evening, enjoying our sport, when the "Day God" in his majesty drove his fiery chariot behind the hills, and was lost from view, leaving, as he disappeared, some traces of his glory, which as he farther went, attended him on his journey through the heavens. This night the moon, nearly at its full, shed its silvery radiance over the land, and rendered our return home only too short for us fully to enjoy the beauty of the scene. The moonbeams sparkling on the waters of the Conestoga, peeping through the trees, and here and there casting a dart of silver on the flower-burdened earth, induce a sense of rare delight. In fact, throughout this whole section of country, the scenery is calculated to disgust us with brick walls and pent up atmosphere of the city. It is in viewing nature in its pristine beauty that the contemplative mind catches some fore-glimpses of the new earth, the beauties and glories of which will take Eternity itself to exhaust.
                    H.P.H.

The Columbia Spy
April 9, 1859
FATAL ACCIDENT ON THE TIDE WATER CANAL. - On Thursday last an accident occurred on the Tide Water Canal, at Lockport, by which Isaac Pearce, a boat hand lost his life. Lockport is opposite the mouth of the Conestoga and the point at which boats from and to Safe Harbor and the Conestoga navigation, enter and leave the canal. The boat was about entering the river and Pearce was staying her headway with a pole. The pole was caught by the tow-path bridge over the outlet, and as the unfortunate man stooped to avoid the obstruction his head was caught between one of the braces of the bridge and the cabin of the boat and ground to a horrible mass, killing him instantly. The deceased was a resident of York county, near York Furnace Bridge.

Columbia Spy
September 24, 1859
Police Items
A BRUTAL OUTRAGE - On Friday, 23rd inst., upon complaint made before Justice Bruner, Brinton Davis, of Williamsburg, Captain of canal boat J.S.M. Gibson, was arrested and brought before the magistrate, charged with brutally outraging the person of a respectable German woman of this place. The woman had been on a visit to Safe Harbor, and with her children got on the boat of Brinton at Lockport, on Thursday afternoon, to return to Columbia. About dark the Captain made improper advances to her and on her repelling him commenced a struggle with her, which, after being continued for some time on deck, ended in his forcing her into the cabin, the door of which he locked. Here he completely overpowered her and accomplished his infamous ends. They arrive here about 1 o�clock at night, and the boys of the boat accompanied the injured woman to her home, carrying the children. The latter had been left screaming on the deck fo the boat during the brute�s struggle with the mother. The evidence of a small boy, one fo the hands on the boat, corroborated the statement of the woman, although he evidently testified under fear of the Captain. Two other boys, of about eighteen years, were employed on the boat, one of whom was asleep in the bow and heard nothing of the struggle. The other boy could not be secured, having concealed himself. The wretch was promptly committed to await his trail, when he will probably receive, ot is deserts, but such feeble approximation to justice as the severest penalty of the law provides. He was taken down the same morning.

The Columbia Spy
July 7, 1860
Sheriff, - We are authorized to announce George H. Hess, Conestoga, as a candidate for Sheriff, subject to the decision of the People's County Convention.

The keeper of the Mansion house was George Hess who would die within two years, during the Civil War, July 4, 1862. To learn more about him see his wife's obit on 5/30/1890.
Daily Express
July 17, 1860
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
A Day At Safe Harbor - An Interesting View of the Rolling Mill - Fishing for Rock. Of all the out-door sports we know of none which has a more soothing effect upon the overtaxed and wearied system than a right , good day�s fishing - especially if the fish happen to be in a happier or a hungry mood, and snap at the bait out of a pure love of fun or are promptly by the gnawing of hunger. Feeling the ant of a little piscatorial recreation on Friday afternoon we - that is the Local branch of the diurnal-jumped into the Safe Harbor coach in front of the Red Lion, and with a tightening of the reins and a crack of the whop, we shot down and up West King with agreeable speed, and soon reached the open country. The day was warm, the road was dusty, but between an entertaining news paper and occasional glimpses at the glorious landscape which surrounds the road most of the way, we passed the two hours of transit most pleasantly. At four o�clock the coach drew up in front of the Mansion House, and we were shortly after snugly quartered on the portico, enjoying the delightful river breeze, and mediating plans for a vigorous campaign among the denizens of the Susquehanna on the following day. Mr. Hess, the obliging host of the mansion, furnished us with all the necessary information as to the fishing grounds, and promised to accompany us to the scenes of our contemplative exploits. The two hours between our arrival and that most delightful of all sounds -the sounds of the supper gong - were this delightfully passed. We cannot conceive for what earthly object the Chinese were invented the gong, unless it was for the purpose of summoning hungry travelers to the table. At any other time it has no more music in it than a tea kettle attached to the candle appendage of a frightened and flying canine. We doubt not that if hotel keepers would keep a worthless cur about the house and at meal time send him forth with a kettle dangling form his tail, it would have as good an effect as a gong, while the laugh which usually overspreads the ace at such an exhibition would be digress too far on this subject. The gong sounded . A stage coach ride of fourteen miles, and a change of scene sharpens the appetite. If it does not, the appearance on the table of fresh caught and rate browned rock and cat fish have a magic effect. We did justice to the piscatorial supper. Izaak Walton himself would go into rapture over a fish supper at the Mansion House.
Another hour of quite enjoyment on the portico, and the sun goes down behind the hills. A chat with Mr. Hess on diverse subjects finally brings us to the old topic of fish. A fact stated to us by the hose, who is well acquainted with the habits of fish, and which we will here repeat, will prove a nit for naturalists to crack. Last week we published in the news item column a statement that a block of ice had been exhibited in Troy, N.Y., in which were firmly imbedded about thirty brook trout. From the position of the fish it was apparent that they were in pursuit of something when they got into soft ice and were frozen in. We stated the substance of the item, when Mr. Hess informed us that last fall, he had placed in his fish box several cat fish, and that during the winter the water froze into the bottom, imbedding the fish in the solid ice. In the spring then the ice thawed the fish gradually recovered and were soon as lively as before they icy embargo. If the cat fish a "hibernating animal ?"
While on the fish subject we may as well state that the important personage, the "oldest inhabitant," distinctly recollects the time when shad, rock fish and all others which run from the sea into the small streams during the spawning season, went up to the headwaters of the Conestoga. The "march" of navigation"- the erection of dams- has long since put a stop to this migratory disposition, and has deprived our sportsmen of the pleasure of catching shad and rock at their own doors.
But to turn from field sports to the field of industry. A walk of less than a half mile brings us to the Safe Harbor rolling mill, where the process of smelting ore into pig metal, and converting pig into wrought iron can be witnessed. The process is one of unusual interest to one who had never seen it. Smelting the ore is a process which almost every one has seen, or what is very near like it, casting in foundries. Working up and purifying the pig in the "puddling furnaces," however, is a sight which cannot be witnessed any nearer the city than Safe Harbor. It was quite dark when we reached the mill, and the very best time to see the work going on to the best advantage. In rolling Mills work never suspends from Monday morning until Saturday afternoon. There are about two hundred hands employed in this mill, a hundred of whom are always on duty.
The appearance of the mill, when approaching it after dark, is very striking. A writer, in describing a similar mill, draws the following vivid picture of the sc�ne: "The most favorable and interesting period for viewing the operations of the mills, as well as of the furnace, is at night, when the outside darkness brings out in strong relief the glare of the furnaces, and the molten iron in its various stages of manufacture. �.When we approached the front of the building in which the operation of puddling is carried on, we were struck with the diabolical appearances of the scene within. The furnaces and their attendants, at all times lit up with a ruddy glow, and here and there illuminated with a most intense brilliancy as they discharge their molten contents, which were run off on little trucks by men who looked more like demons in the sumptuous light than like human beings; the noise and clatter of the machinery, the lour reports from the squeezer; the flying sparks from the trains, as the ion discharged its cinder under the operation of rolling; the gloomy depths of darkness among the intricate beams above, contrasting strongly with the lurid glare below; the traversing carts and barrows; the shouting of the men, altogether made up a scene of startling interest, and one not easily forgotten."
The puddling furnaces much resemble the ordinary bake-oven. Though an aperture in the iron door, the puddler works with a long iron bar, turning and twisting the half molten iron, without intermission, for two hours, when it is ready for taking out. The puddler during his "heat" is perfectly nude from the neck to the thigh, while the perspiration-starts from every pore. When the heat is completed, the iron is emptied on iron trucks in immense lumps and is run to the squeezer, into which it is placed, comes out in the form of a roll about a foot and a half in length, and about the same measure in circumferences. A constant stream of water plays upon the squeezer, which, coming in contact with the half molten ion causes a number of rapid discharges as loud as small artillery, while a shower of red hot cinders rain all around. From the squeezer the iron is run to the rolls, and from which if finally emerges in long, flat plates, and are cut to a uniform length about six feet. The mill was engaged in making railroad iron during our visit. The iron is next put into the "heat furnaces," where after two hours "baking" it is run through another set of rolls and the rail is completed. The whole process is one of unusual interest, and is at any time worth a journey to Safe Harbor to witness. The men employed in the mill embrace various nationalities. There are Scotch, Irish, German, French, Welsh, English and American. Many of them are quite intelligent, and very ready to furnish any information desired. We groped our way back to the Mansion in the dark, and were soon after lulled to sleep by the music of the water rolling over the dam, directly in front of our chamber window.
After a hearty breakfast on "rock," on the following morning, we took the boat with Mr. Hess and were piloted down to the "dam" by "John" an experienced riverman, always at the service of the guests of the Mansion House. The river on all sides here is surrounded by high bluffs, giving the whole scene a wild and picturesque appearance. The dam is about a half mile below the village. A party of gentlemen from Manheim had preceded us, and were meeting with pretty good success in hauling out the rock. We cast our first line for rock, and were soon rewarded with an unmistakable pull. We pulled at the other end - out came a moderate sized rock, which in our hast to secure - not being posted on the habits of this species of the finny tribe - we got an ugly puncture in the palm of the hand from the sharp fin on the back. We were more cautious with the second fish, and escaped the sting. The sport became exciting. Away went the line and out came the rock. A few hours rewarded us with several dozen of air sized fish. The rock is a "fast" fish. It does not nibble at the bait, thus keeping you in suspense to know whether it is going to cultivate your better acquaintance or not, but it takes right hold, swallows the bait, shoots away, and flies into your arms. Royal Rock !
The river is now in good fishing condition and the rock are plenty. Those who desire to enjoy a good day�s piscatorial sport, interlarded with a wonder in mechanics, should start the evening before, when they will have an opportunity of visiting the rolling mill at night and witnessing an unusually interesting scene. By all means quarter at the Mansion House, for Hess is a prince of good fellows.

The Philadelphia Press
August 4, 1860
Pennsylvania Items
LANCASTER COUNTY - Hugh Mehaffy, Esq., a well-known citizen of Conestoga Centre, Lancaster county, died at his residence on the 16th ult., in the 65th year of his age. Mr. M. was deputy sheriff under Adam Bare from 1830 to 1833; was appointed by Governor Titner, in 1836, register of Lancaster county, which post he held for three years, and was also a justice of the peace for many years in Conestoga township. In all these positions he proved an intelligent and efficient officer, and was highly respected by all who knew him.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 15, 1860
MURDER.- On Saturday afternoon last a most atrocious and cold blooded murder was committed near Conestoga Centre, in this county. The victim was a colored woman named Eve Callsbury, nearly ninety years of age. She was on her way on foot from Martic Forge to the Centre, and when near the latter place must have been attacked. When found she was insensible, but still living. She was conveyed to the Centre where she died about six o'clock.
On Sunday Deputy Coroner Jacob Hebble held an inquest upon the body, when a postmortem examination, by Drs. Clinger and Kendig, revealed the fact that four cuts from 1 1/2 to 2 inches in length, and six smaller ones, were discovered upon several parts of the head. The skull was fractured and the left side driven into the brain. It was the opinion of the physicians that the injuries could not have resulted from accident. The jury returned a verdict that the deceased came to her death by willful murder, perpetrated by the hands of some unknown person.
Suspicion attached to a vagrant who was seen in the immediate neighborhood of the murder, and pursuit was immediately commenced. He was traced to Willow Street, where all trace of him was lost.
Fortunately, however, as Mr. Hebble was on his way to this city, on Monday morning, he met a man who corresponded in person and appearance with a description of the supposed murderer. he at once arrested him and brought him to his city when he was taken before Mayor Sanderson, who after hearing the testimony, committed him to the County Prison to answer the charge of the murder at the November term of Sessions. In answer to the Mayor he said his name was Jacob Whitman; that he was about twenty-eight years of age, but refused to answer any other questions. He is apparently a German by birth, and without exception one of the most vicious looking persons we have ever met with. His clothes were literally in rags, and covered with filth and vermin. He had in his possession a staff some five feet long and about an inch and a half in diameter. This, as was part of his clothing, was sprinkled with blood. It was doubtless the instrument with which the murder was committed. - What motive he had for perpetrating the murder can only be surmised. Mr. Hebble gives the following additional particulars of the affair:
The woman was found near the foot of Miller's Hill. About ten minutes before she was found Mr. Geo. Warfel met the man at the foot of the hill proceeding very slowly, with a large club in his hand. Mrs. Callsbury was coming down the hill in an opposite direction. A few moments afterwards the same man was met by Messrs John and Joseph Shank a short distance from the hill walking at a rapid rate. When they came down the hill they found a dying woman along side the road, where she had been dragged from the centre, a distance of eight or ten yards, as was manifest from the track on the road. - Examiner.

Express
August 24, 1861
Court Proceedings
Com. vs. Maria Allen, for the murder of her husband, Abraham Allen. The parties lived in a little collier�s cabin in Conestoga township, about a mile and a half from the Susquehanna. On the 3d of March last, Maria ran to the neighbors, Messrs. Hill and McCardell, representing that there was a white man beating her husband, and begging them to come down. They did so, and found Abraham laying on the rude bed, with his head almost entirely cut to pieces with a sharp instrument. From his position, the cuts were given while in that position, asleep or drunk. It must have been in that position, as the instrument cut the pillow beside his head. He never moved after, gasping once or twice after the neighbors arrived. She said a white man had done it with a club, but the parties saw the cuts would not have been made with a club, and on search found a sharp axe, covered with blood, under the bed. She said the white man had come with her husband from a sale the evening before, and they had a quarrel about some money, and afterwards they procured whisky and all got on a spree. In the morning the white mane renewed the quarrel, and began to beat Abraham with a large club, when she ran for the neighbors. She said that she saw the white man run away. From the testimony of those who followed her instantly, no man left the cabin at that time, as she said. There was no marks of any struggle outside, and no blood anywhere but on the bed where the murdered man lay and on the ace. There was blood also on her clothes when she was examined, and she told different stories of the matter herself. They had previously been very quarrelsome, and she had committed several assaults on her husband. This was the statement made by the District Attorney, at the opening of the case, and the evidence was still in progress when the Court adjourned till half-past two.

Express
August 27, 1861
Proceedings of Court
Saturday afternoon: The evidence in the case of Com. vs. Maria Allen, was proceeded with, establishing in substance the facts, previously stated. After the conclusion of the evidence for the Commonwealth, the defense stated that they had no evidence of offer, and the counsel began their argument, which, with the Judge�s charge, were finished, and the case given to the jury at about 6 o�clock, when the Court adjourned until the jury should be ready to bring in their verdict, which would be known by the ringing of the bell. After an absence of about an hour, they returned a verdict of guilty of manslaughter. The defendant was sentenced to pay a fine of $1. and costs, and be imprisoned in the Eastern Penitentiary at hard labor for twelve years. Court then adjourned.

Philadelphia Press
September 13, 1861
Arrest of Alleged Murderers. - Two brothers, named Neff, were arrested at Camp Curtin yesterday morning, charged with being participants in the recent murder of the brothers Smeltzer, at Safe Harbor, Lancaster county.

The Columbia Spy
Aug 2, 1862
Death of Capt. Hess. -We regret to learn that the worst anticipations of Capt. Geo. H. Hess' fate have been realized. News of his death in hospital at Richmond, on the 4th of July, has been received. Capt. Hess was for a number of years the well known and popular host fo the Mansion House, Safe Harbor. We knew him personally, as a most amiable and courteous gentleman, and he could count his friends by thousand. He commanded Company D. Fourth Regiment Penna. Reserves, and did splendid service in the first two days' fighting before Richmond, falling severly wounded - shot through the breast - on the second day. His loss will be deeply felt by a devoted family and host of friends
People who died at Mechanicsburg, Virginia in Capt. Hess' company are John Gilbert, Peter McBride, W. love, J. Harnish and McCabe..

Lancaster Express
September 16, 1863
The following preamble and resolutions were adopted by the Horace Mann Literary Society of Conestoga Township, at a late meeting of the Society.
WHEREAS, It has pleased God, to remove from our midst by death, our beloved and worthy member, John J. Zercher, who by his industry, devotion and wisdom as a member of this Society, has won the respect and esteem of all its members, by setting forth to them the noble example of doing good to all around him, and earnestly laboring to make this Association an honor to all who chose to associate with him in battling for the cause of justice and humanity. Therefore, we feel it our duty as his brother members, to express our heartfelt sorrow at this unexpected death, as well as our united sympathy with his bereaved and mourning family.
Therefore, Resolved, That while we submit to the decrees of Providence, and bow in humble resignation to his will, yet we sincerely lament his early death, and mourn the loss of a useful member, whose vacant place cannot easily be filled:
Resolved, That the members of this Society offer their consolation to the family of the deceased, and would direct them, in this their time of deep affliction to look to God for support and strength, who alone can comfort and console them in this trying hour.
Resolved, That a copy of the above resolutions be presented to the family, and be published in the Lancaster Express.
                                                    Michael Benedict
                                                                    Ephraim Potts
                                                                    J. H. Fritz
                                                                    Amaziah Erb
                                                                    Casper Hiller
                                                                           Committee

FINE FRUITS - Mr. Casper Hiller, of the Conestoga Nurseries, displayed some excellent specimens of fruit on market this morning. Among them were Bartlett, Felmish, Beauty and Beurre Clergean pears, and the following varieties of grapes: Concord, Diana, Elsenberg, Catawba, Clinton, Cassady, Bullit, Rebecca and Delaware. The pears are the finest we think, we have even seen in this neighborhood. The grapes are also excellent, and those who propose raising fruit of this kind should examine the varieties of Mr. Hiller. He is prepared to furnish vines in any quantity at his nurseries in Conestoga Centre.

False Report of Death of Capt. Hebble, He Served on Both Sides during the Civil War. He died in New York see August 22, 1913 for his obit.
Lancaster Evening Express
September 19th, 1863
DEATH OF CAPT HEBBLE
It was yesterday announced in our news column, on the authority of the Richmond (VA.) Examiner that on the 7th inst. the rebels attached a camp of Col. Wynkoop's Cavalry (six months men), commanded by Major Camby, in the neighborhood of Bath, Morgan county, and that Capt. Hebble, of Company , and nine men were killed. The fight was said to have been a hand to hand affair. Capt. Christian B. Hebble, the officer referred to, belonged to Conestoga Center, this county. At the breaking out of the war he was residing near Yorktown, Va., and was conscripted into the rebel army, where he was compelled to serve over a year. When the Potomac army drove the rebels from Yorktown, Va., and was conscripted into the rebel army, where he was compelled to serve for over a year. When the Potomac army drover the rebels from Yorktown the Captain managed to make his escape, and entered our lines. He returned to his home in this county, and when the nine months' volunteers were called for he promptly responded by assisting to raise a company, and was made a lieutenant. This company was placed in the 135th Regiment, and served out its time. On its discharge from the service the Captain again returned home , but on the invasion of Pennsylvania by Lee's army, and another call being made for six months' volunteers, he nobly responded, and very soon raised a company of cavalry, which was placed in Col. Wynkoop's Regiment. An now he was offered up his life, a willing sacrifice on the alter of his country. He was a brave and faithful soldier, and had a kind heart. When eh entered the Union service he expressed his determination never to be taken alive by the rebels, and it is probably from this fact that the fight in which he perished was so sanguinary, as the dead outnumber the wounded. A grateful people will keep his memory green.
- Since the above was in type, we were called upon by the father of Capt. Hebble, who states that there is no truth in the statement of the Richmond Enquirer, that his son is still alive and has been seen by friends within a few days past. The Captain was in the skirmish spoken of but came off unscathed. He was ordered to surrender by a rebel captain, but instead of doing so shot the rebel captain dead. We are pleased to hear this and hope the Captain may live many years to enjoy the fruits of that freedom which he is helping to achieve.

The Columbia Spy
April 14, 1866
BODY FOUND - We learn that the body of George W. Grubb, who was drowned on Monday, 19th ult., by being carried over the breast of the dam at this place; was found lodged upon a rock about ten miles below Safe Harbor. Decomposition had not destroyed the body enough to prevent recognition.

Lancaster Express
June 7, 1867
Local Correspondence
Conestoga Centre, June 5:
There being quite a variety of interesting news from different sections of the county to the columns of your excellent paper, I concluded that a few items from here might be acceptable. You are well aware that there are many readers of the Express in this village and township, and I have heard more than one remark, that it would be a pleasure to read something in their weekly from home. Great improvements have been made within the last year, which show that a spirit of enterprise is being manifested in our mist. The "Conestoga Literary Society," met for some years in the East Centre School house, to the inconvenience of all concerned, for the want of room. Lately there has been erected the "Conestoga Hall," which, besides being an honor to the place, gives us ample room for all good and benevolent objects. Kishacaquillas Tribe, No. 65, Improved Order of Red Men,instituted since the building of the hall, holds its "councils in the hall every Friday evening. The members of this tribe are among the most intelligent and virtuous of our citizens, and deserve credit for carrying forward their benevolent objects, amid a good deal of opposition and prejudice. However, this will die out as soon as the people generally know that all such societies are intended to exert a beneficial influence.
Dr. Benjamin S. Kendig is putting up a large brick dwelling, office, and other necessary buildings, which gives employment to several persons, and will add greatly to the beautifying of our village. The doctor is one of our most enterprising men, being strongly in favor of advancement and reform. Conestoga Centre is a quiet, thriving place, all the people being of industrious habits. We have in our village three schools, two primary and one graded, two stores, two hotels and also two eating houses, besides a good many shops, &c., where different classes of mechanics are busily engaged. Hotels and eating houses are closed on Sunday, and quiet reigns supreme. I must also add that we have three churches, German Reformed, Methodist and Lutheran. These are all in a prosperous condition, as we are a church going people. Out Sabbath schools are interesting and well attended. A four days meeting of the "Classis" held in the German Reformed Church, closed on Tuesday. It bought several ministers and elders into our midst, who were happily welcomed. Altogether the meeting was calculated to do much good and we can truly say that it was an entire success.
EP

The Columbia Spy
July 13, 1867
Marriages
On the 23d ult., at Eagle Valley, by S. Lehman, Justice of the Peace, John S. May, of Safe Harbor, to Martha Warfel, of Conestoga.

The Columbia Spy
February 8, 1868
Marriages
On the 9th of January, by Rev. Wm. Major, Abraham Kauffman, of Columbia, and Sarah Bunting of Safe Harbor.

Lancaster Evening Express
March 12, 1868
Conestoga Literary Society
At a stated meeting of this Society, the following officers were elected: President, Dr. P. S. Clinger; Vice President, Nathaniel Shank; Secretary, E. Potts; Treasurer, B. F. Hookey; Executive Committee, M. Benedict, chairman; Jas. E. Hess and Andrew 'Graver, assistants; Editor, Casper Hiller; Librarian, Miss Sue Kendig. Essay for the next meeting will be read by W. K. Sourbeer. Subject: Effect of Natural Scenery on the Formation of Character. Question for discussion: Is the "Crawford County System" the best one for the voters of Lancaster County ? This Society meets every Wednesday evening in the Conestoga Hall.

The Columbia Spy
May 2, 1868
Quarter Sessions Court
John McGouse, assault and battery. The prosecutor, Thomas German, testified that he accidentally ran against defendant in the village of Safe Harbor, where both parties reside, whereupon McGouse knocked him down and beat him about the head and arms. The jury found a verdict of guilty. In consideration of the fact that the defendant had been severely wounded in the army, and that an imprisonment would be very injurious, the Court sentenced him to pay a fine of $25., and dismissed him with a reprimand.

The Columbia Spy
May 30, 1868
Marriages
On Tuesday, may 26th, 1868, by Rev. Father Keenan, Daniel Pretzman, of Lancaster City, to Miss Sarah Lawrence, of Conestoga Centre.

The Columbia Spy
April 3, 1869
The body of a new-born white male infant, was found lodged among a pile of drift-wood at the head of an Island in the Susquehanna river, opposite Safe Harbor recently. The infant was entirely naked, with the top of its scull crushed in, and only a portion of its brains remaining, and is supposed to have been murdered and thrown into the river from some point above immediately after its birth.

The Columbia Spy
April 17, 1869
Marriages
February 7th, at Conestoga Centre, by Rev. J. E. Hessler, Jacob S. Murer to Anna L. Mellinger, both of Safe Harbor, Lancaster county.

The Columbia Spy
June 12, 1869
HORSE AND WAGON STOLEN - Mr. John Smith, of Safe Harbor, drove his horse and wagon to the residence of Mr. Glick at Turkey Hill, Manor township, yesterday evening, for the purpose of seeing Mr. Glick on business. While Mr. Smith was in the house conversing with Mr. Glick some one unhitched his horse and wagon and made off with them. The larceny occurred about 10 o'clock at night. It appears that the thief took the direction of Columbia, but all traces of the stolen property was soon lost and as yet no clue to its whereabouts has been discovered. - Intelligencer

The Columbia Spy
August 7, 1869
County Affairs
On Saturday night, the 31st ult. The store of M. R. Shenk, in Manor twp., near Safe Harbor, was broken into by boring a shutter, cutting out a pane of glass and raising the sash from the outside, and about thirty dollars in cash, about one half thereof in pennies and five cent coins, together with from twenty-fie to forty dollars� worth of goods, among which were a part of a piece of cassimere, a piece of light-colored calico, a piece of lawn, a balmoral, an umbrella, several pairs of men�s gaiter boots, a box of cigars, &c, stolen and carried off. A young man of the neighborhood passing the store about two o�clock on Sunday morning noticed a front shutter open and a light in the store, which vanished and reappeared several times in quick succession, as thought it was caused only by burning matches, which proved, next morning, to have been the case. He stood still in the road awhile and noticed a man inside rummaging through the desk, when he became alarmed himself, and being either too stupid or two cowardly, passed on home without making any alarm, although he passed have a dozen houses within a mile fo the store. Next Morning the money drawer and several pair of gaiters were found outside, and the footprints of the thief traced down the road to near Safe Harbor, when all further traces were lost. - Express

The Columbia Spy
August 28, 1869
Marriages
On the 3rd inst., at the Parsonage, by Rev. S.H. C. Smith, Mr. Aaron Martin, of Conestoga Centre, and Miss Lucinda Brown, of Philadelphia.

The Columbia Spy
Sept 4, 1869
Local Briefs
The German Reformed Sunday School, of Conestoga Centre, celebrated in Mchaffey's grove, adjoining the village, on Saturday last. The school is noted for its excellent musical talent. Everything passed off pleasantly.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 11, 1869
ACCIDENT.- A boy about 11 years of age, son of Mr. John Fralich, of Conestoga Centre, while playing in the yard at his father's residence yesterday, fell on some steps leading on the porch, and broke his right arm below the elbow. Dr. S. S. Mehaffey was called, who set the broken arm. This boy has been particularly unfortunate, having had one of his legs broken on two occasions, in consequence of which he has to walk on crutches. - Intelligencer

The Columbia Spy
October 9, 1869
At Safe Harbor, a large Republican meeting was held on the 2d. Inst. Dr. Getchell and Samuel M. Wright, Esq., made stirring speeches.
During the recent freshet much damage was done at Harbor. The large dam in the Conestoga gave way, the new county bridge was swept off with a terrible crash, and all kinds of timber and property floated out into the Susquehanna. David Davis lost all his out buildings, amounting in value to $500. The shoe shop of Jos. Tripple was carried off. Messrs E. Brenner�s Col. Lost all their timber. Brenner was badly injured in attempting to save his property.

The Columbia Spy
Jan. 15, 1870
MARRIAGES
Jan. 9th, by Rev. J. J. Strine, at his residence, Amos M. Dabler of Manor, to Lizie E. Jones, of Conestoga Centre.

The Columbia Spy
Jan. 29, 1870
MARRIAGES
On Dec. 23, at Sprecher's hotel, by the Rev. J. E. Kessler, Benjamin F. Maynard, of Conestoga Centre, to Laura J. McMullin, of Colemanville.
On January 20th, by the Rev. J. E. Kessler, John O. Erisman, of Millersville, to Mary E. Prentiss, of Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
Feb. 5, 1870
Foolish Fortune Hunters. - We are informed that a number of foolish people, residing in and about Safe harbor, this county, are almost nightly engaged in a fruitless search for buried gold on the rocky and wild hill opposite the Mansion House hotel, in that village. It is asserted by those who have been silly enough to be duped by the impostors who are amusing themselves and filling their pockets at their expense, that an Indian Spirit about seven feet high, with all the marked features of the Indian, appears at the weird and solemn hour of midnight unto the money hunters and exhorts them to toil diligently on in search of the gold claimed by the Indian Spirit to have been taken from the French army by the Indians and secretly buried in the hill. Our informant also says that a certain fortune tell, in this city, is concerned in the matter and, when the money hunters have digged where sad fortune tell has direct and have nevertheless failed to find gold, the fortune tell asserts that the Indian Spirit has removed the money since his last advice was given. In this way the Indian Spirit and the fortune teller keep their dupes constantly at work and reap from them a nice little "divy" of substantial greenbacks. One would hardly expect to find in Lancaster county persons so grossly ignorant as to be thus imposed upon by the most arrant impostors. - Intelligencer.
- We have been told that more than one midnight expedition in search of Spirit-guarded treasures, has been made in this neighborhood. Those who know say that the shovel must be greased with goat�s fat, and not a word must be spoken during the operation of digging.

The Columbia Spy
Feb. 12, 1870
BODY FOUND - The body of Mr. Adam Warfel, who was drowned on the 24th of last October, at Safe Harbor, was found on Friday, the 28th ult., lodged against a tree in the run at the Horse-shoe road about one mile above Peach Bottom. A neck tie and a pair of boots were all that remained of his clothing. The rest had been torn from him, as soon as the discovery was made, the friends of the deceased were notified. They recognized the body without difficulty. It was taken to Safe Harbor, the Sunday following and interred in the Eshleman family grave yard.

The Columbia Spy
Feb. 19, 1870
Marriages
Feb. 13th, by the Rev. E. Greenawalt, Daniel H. Shank, of Conestoga, to Anna Meck, of West Lampeter.

Intelligencer
March 17, 1870
THE SLACKWATER BRIDGE. - The bridge across the Conestoga at Shober�s Slackwater Paper Mills, which was injured by the great flood last summer, is at last being repaired. Mr. Daniel Shiffer, the contractor, having commenced work on it this morning with about a dozen men. It will take two or three weeks to finish the job, during which time travel with heavy teams on that route will have to be suspended. Mr. John A. Shober, however, proposes to ferry across the stream, in a large flat, any thing not heavier than a three horse team. This will be a great accommodation to those traveling in light vehicles.

The Columbia Spy
March 19, 1870
It has been wonder all along how Wm. Courtney, of Safe Harbor, this county, was acquitted of the charge of robbing the mail when the proof was so strong against him. But the mystery be explained. It will be recollected that Courtney was mail carrier between Penningtonville and Oxford, and had abstracted two valuable letters, and when arrested seventy dollars in money and a check, taken from these letters, were found on his person. He was tried before Judge Cadwallder in Philadelphia. The guilt of the prisoner was so clear, that the Judge and District Attorney allowed the case to go to the jury without charge or argument. A young lawyer, however, J. Davis Duffield, who had been retained for the defense, with a witness, plead in behalf of the prisoner, in manner at once so eloquent and witty, that after an absence of two hours, the jury returned, to the evident surprise of everybody, with a verdict of not guilty. It was the honied tongue of eloquence that, in this instance, save Courtney�s bacon. Express

Intelligencer
March 21, 1870
SLACKWATER AFFAIRS - Our correspondent "W" at Slackwater, this county, sends us the following items of interest from that pretty and pleasant little village:
The Bridge at Shober�s Slackwater Paper Mill is being repaired in a substantial manner. The contract for the same has been awarded to Mr. John Schaeffer, and not Daniel Shiffer, as was erroneously announced by us several days ago. it is expected that the repairs will be completed in about two weeks. The Messrs, Shober have procured a very large and serviceable boat, which will be used to ferry all vehicles, etc,. across the stream at the mill.
On Saturday evening, Miss Laura Gates, a daughter of one of the residents of the village, celebrated her 21st birthday anniversary by a grand supper and party. Quite a number of friends and acquaintances were present, from the surrounding neighborhood, and several were from the city of Lancaster. A delightful evening was enjoyed by all who had not met there, showing that the pretty country lasses knew how to entertain their guests. Some of them surpassed many of the city ladies in the neatness and taste displayed in the arrangement of their toilets.

J. George Pries doesn't leave Conestoga Centre, he dies at Conestoga Centre, see August 26, 1889 for his obit.
Intelligencer
March 22, 1870
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
Conestoga Centre Items - Messrs Editors. - Mrs. Mary Musser, relict of Mr. John Musser, deceased, died at this village on Wednesday last, the 16th inst., at the advanced age of 92 years, 3 months, and 1 day. The deceased had been quite hearty and active, until about 4 years ago, when she lost her sight, since which time she sank gradually until the day of her death. All the food that she took during the five weeks preceding her death, was about two spoonfuls of ey thin brother; she, however drank occasionally a little water. She was in full possession of her faculties (except seeing) until her death. Her descendants as far as it is positively known, are 11 children, 53 grand children, 89 great-grand children, 4 great-great grand children, total 156; but it is supposed that the number of great grand children and great-great grand children are both somewhat larger. Of these 8 children, 30 grandchildren, 72 great grand children and 4 great-great grandchildren survive her. This is a large number of descendants, when we take into consideration that 4 of her children are unmarried, and another without any children.
A great many changes are taking place this Spring in this neighborhood. Among them, J. George Pries, who has for 14 years ketp the "Conestoga Centre Hotel," the leading hotel in this village, intends removing. This is universally regretted, Mr. P. having kept one of the most orderly public houses to be found anywhere. Previous to Mr. P�s coming here, this village and tavern were noted for its disgraceful scenes of gambling, fighting and drunkenness, known as "pin=gut Fairs" and "Pinch=gut Horse Races." Any one who ever attended any of these "fairs" and "horse races" will sustain us in saying that no more disgraceful scenes were enacted anywhere than here, and yet at present no village equal to this size exists in Lancaster county, in which less drunkenness disorder or rowdyism prevails than in Conestoga Centre. Strangers coming here universally speak well of our "orderly village and quiet taverns." An on one man can lay equal claim with Mr. P. to this reform. He never allowed any drunkenness, carousing or rowdyism about his house, and so orderly a hotel did he keep that, though he is a firm, unflinching and outspoken Democrat, the elections were continued being held, and all other public business transacted at his hose. Mr. P. leaves this place with the respect and esteem of all its best citizens.
U.S.

Intelligencer
March 29, 1870
CONESTOGA TOWNSHIP ITEMS - Messrs. Editors: - A little boy, but 8 years of age, rescued two other children from drowning on Thursday, the 17th inst. Such brave and heroic conduct as this little boy displayed is seldom equaled by one so young. There little boys aged, respectively 3, 6 and 8 years, the first , a son of Mr. Wm. Ramsey, of Burkholder�s Ferry, in this township, and the other two, sons of Mr. Rawlins McClune, who resides near the Ferry, were on the river in a skiff, when the skiff upset, throwing the three children into the water. The oldest boy was a good swimmer, but the other two could not swim at all. When the boat upset it remained bottom up on the rock that caused it to upset. The little hero of 8 years of age, first got his brother of 6 years upon the bottom of the boat, and then went after the 3 year old boy, whom the current had already carried some distance off, and succeeded in reaching him in time, and also in getting him to Warfel�s Island, where he laid him on the shore, until he swam to the boat and brought his brother and safely to the shore. He then carried the little boy to the residence of Mr. Jacob Warfel, about 400 years distant, where he was soon restored to consciousness; and all three are again as well as if they had not received such a cold bath, and made such a narrow escape from drowning.
The negroes of "Nigger Hollow" have formed themselves into a league, holding meetings weekly. The Chief Marshall elect of the parade, which is to form a part of the celebration ratifying the Fifteenth Amendment at Columbia, who is a native of the "Hollow," organized the League and had som resolutions passed which he had brought from Columbia. Speeches were made by a number of the sable orators, and arrangements were made to proceed to Columbia to take part in the ratification jubilee, their Radical brethren (white) of Columbia having promised to bear the expenses and to furnish the provisions, for which the owners of poultry in this neighborhood thank them very heartily. A ginger-cake colored Demosthenes said there were 25 "colored voters" in this township, of whom 20 were "colored Republicans and 5 Nigger Democrats," but bref de Lawd" he continued, "dar war wun com in his cbnin, and now dar am only 4 Nigger Democrats." A few of the more respectable negroes refuse to attend their meetings or join their league, hence they are denounced as Nigger Democrats..
Wild geese passed over this way last week on their journey to the Northern Lakes, and black-birds in large numbers and some wild pigeons were about; the robins made their appearance some time ago, while - which is very singular - we saw blue-birds during the whole winter, at short intervals; we also saw a blue-jay on the first of January.
Some of the farmers were plowing during the latter part of last week for oats, the ground having been in good condition. The equinoctial storm on Saturday night and Sunday was a very severe here.
U.S.

The Columbia Spy
April 30, 1870
Court Proceedings
Com�th vs. Jacob Trier. This defendant was convicted for assault and battery on his wife Elizabeth Trier, in July of last year, at their home in Safe Harbor. Trier testified that he had on one occasion "strapped" her, and at another time slept with an axe in his bed, threatening to use this weapon on her, in case she came to bed to him. The defendant incases of this kind being entitled to make a statement to the Court - without the administration of an oath - told his side of the story, which, if half of what he said was true, he was a greatly injured man, and his wife a graded prostitute. As there are several other charges pending against this defendant, the Court suspended judgment for the present.

Intelligencer
May 24, 1870
Local Items - We are indebted to one of our most attentive and intelligent correspondents for the following interesting items:
On Thursday last as Mr. Philip Hoffman, who resides near Conestoga Centre, was splitting wood the ax glanced off, hitting him on the left foot, cutting it very severely.
The scarlet fever is prevailing to some extent among the children in Conestoga Centre, and neighborhood.
Dr. B. S. Kendig, of Conestoga Centre, purchased a few weeks ago the tobacco raised on the farm of Mr. George Shoff, of Conestoga twp., about 8,000 pounds; for a part of which he paid $30 per hundred, and for the remainder $25. This is, we think, the highest price paid for tobacco in this neighborhood the present year.
On the property of Mr. Jacob Conrad, adjoining the village of Conestoga Centre, is a cherry tree of the Early Purple variety, from which Mr. C. has realized over $25 each year-on an average-for a number of years from the sale of the cherries grown thereon. It is this year again as full as usual.
There are still some shad-and some of them very fine ones-being caught in the Susquehanna, though not in as large numbers as a few weeks ago. This has been the most successful shad fishing season enjoyed by our fisherman for many years.
U.S.

The Columbia Spy
May 28, 1870
Gold Seekers-We are informed that the Safe Harbor gold seekers are still engaged in searching for "Treasure Trove." Their investigations, which have hitherto been confined to the Manor township side of the Conestoga creek, have recently been transferred to the Conestoga township hills opposite the scenes of their former researches. On Tuesday night at a late hour a party were discovered digging for the hidden treasure. They were much annoyed at being disturbed, and left off their digging at the presence of the unwelcome visitors who so suddenly interrupted their mysterious labors. It is singular that these superstitious and deluded people should continue to hunt for buried gold, after the many assurances they have had their labor is all in vain. - Intelligencer

The Columbia Spy
June 25, 1870
The County
On Wednesday while a four mule ore team was being ferried across the Conestoga at Safe Harbor, the weight of the load forced out a portion of the bottom of the flat in which they were being taken over. The flat filled with water and went to the bottom of the creek, carrying the team along with it. Luckily the water was but four feet deep, so that no very serious damage was done.
At last accounts "Jack" of the Intelligencer had the mules standing in the water.

The Columbia Spy
July 2, 1870
County Items
The mule team has been rescued from the raging waters of the Conestoga at Harbor
On Friday night last, a horse belonging to David Hess, Sr., who resides near Conestoga Centre, was taken out of the stable and shot dead by some scoundrel.
Some time ago a mule belonging to John Buckwalter, Jr., in the same neighborhood was killed in the same manner.

The Columbia Spy
July 9, 1870
County Items
Chicken Thieves infest Conestoga township between Rockville and Petersville.

Lancaster Inquirer
Nov. 19, 1870
Items from Conestoga Centre
Conestoga Centre is a thriving village of almost 500 inhabitants. It is pleasantly situated near the center of Conestoga township. It has five churches, two hotels, two dry good and grocery stores, three ice cream and beer saloons, one cigar manufactory, one tobacco packing house, and quite a number of mechanics shops.
We have also three school houses in the village, two very good Sunday schools, and in intelligence our little town will compare favorably with any in the county.
Music is quite a specialty among our young folks, and the singing in the churches, Sunday schools, concerts &; would do credit to towns much larger. For this a large credit is due to Prof. Jacob R. Yentzer, whose untiring labor for the past ten years had done much to give the village
the musical reputation it is in possession of. I must not forget to state that we have five physicians, and this is probably due the fact that our citizens are remarkably healthy.
This section is much in need of a railroad, a small force is at work on the Columbia & Port Deposit Railroad, below Washington borough, and it is rumored that a larger force will be put to work in a short time. But we have heard so much of this road being built "immediately" that many have lost all faith in such reports. Its completion to Safe Harbor would enable the iron works there to resume operations. This would be an immense benefit to the people of this section.
The Lancaster and New Danville turnpike is progressing finely, and I am informed, will be in operation by the month of February. Dr. B. S. Kendig, one of our most enterprising citizens, is making an effort to have the road extended to this place. Its present terminus is at McAllister's crossroads about 1 1/4 miles from here.
There was a meeting at Kendig's hotel, on Saturday for the purpose of taking measure for the erection of a bridge across the Susquehanna at Shenk's Ferry. Some of our wealthy citizens are willing to subscribe liberally to this enterprise, and I hope it will be pushed to completion. A bridge at this place would greatly benefit our neighbors across the river, as it would enable them to get their produce to the Lancaster markets, and would consequently benefit that city.
A serious accident occurred on Sunday last, near Wm. Good's mill, in this township. As Mr. John J. Good and wife, of Martic township, were returning from church at Conestoga Centre, and were descending a long steep hill, in a carriage, the horse attached to it took fright from some unknown cause and rushed down the hill. When about half way down the hill Mrs. Good was thrown from the carriage and very severely injured. Mr. Good was thrown forward between the shafts, and in that position he was carried or dragged to the foot of the hill, where he succeeded in stopping the horse. Strange to say he was but slightly injured, it seems truly providential that both escaped a terrible death. Mrs. Good injuries, though serious and painful, are not considered dangerous, and it is hoped she will soon recover. Mr. Good is one of our most respected and estimable citizens, and this accident is much regretted by a large circle of friends.
                                                                                      J.W.U.
                                                                           (Probably John W. Urban)  

Conestoga Hall was the second floor of the graded school where Leo Smith's store was located and now is School House Power Center. For a mention of its beginnings see June 7, 1867, for its end, February 9, 1876.
Inquirer
December 24, 1870
There will be an exhibition held in Conestoga Hall, Conestoga Centre, on Saturday evening, December 24. The proceeds to be devoted to the payment of the organ lately purchased by the German Reformed Church of his place. The entertainment will consist of a fine selection of literary performances, interspersed with vocal and instrumental music conducted by Prof. Jacob R. Yentzer. Many of the young people of the place are taking an active part in the exhibition, and it promises to be a grand success. The object is a worthy one, and we promise a rare treat to all who will attend.

Examiner and Herald
March 8, 1871
DEATHS
March 5, 1871, in Conestoga twp., Susan, wife of John Buckwalter, Sr., in the 68th year of her age.

The Columbia Spy
April 6, 1872
SUICIDE - Christian Kendig, a quarryman by occupation, about 55 years of age, and a resident of Rockville, Conestoga township, committed suicide on Wednesday by shooting himself though the head almost half of which was torn off. Deputy Coroner John J. Tripple of Safe Harbor, held the inquest, and the jury rendered a verdict of death by suicide. Deceased was a man of considerable property - $10,000 or more. He was some time ago divorced from his wife, and was subject to periods of melancholy, and it is though that he was laboring under one of these spells at the time of the tragedy.

The Columbia Spy
April 13, 1872
Local Brevities
The Government pays John Clark $250 a year for carrying the mail between Columbia, Manor and Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
April 20, 1872
On Sunday a stately bald eagle was seen below Petersville on the banks of the Conestoga, quietly sitting on the edge of a fish pot. An hour afterward, the eagle rose and flew up to the bluffs a short distance, with a fish line, about forty feet in length, descending from the beak of the bird. How did the line get there ? The supposition is that the eagle caught and swallowed a fish that had been hooked and escaped with the line. So far as could be seen the hook and of the line was completely within the eagle's beak. The eagle might get fast in a tree.

Then, as now, candidates for public office cite their military experience when running for public office.
The Columbia Spy
June 1, 1872
Clerk of Quarter Sessions
We are authorized to announce John W. Urban, of Conestoga township, as a candidate for Clerk of Quarter Sessions, subject to the decision of the Republican voters, at the ensuing primary election. (Mr. Urban was a private in company D., 1st regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve; was wounded at the battle of Charles City Cross Roads, during the seven days fight in front of Richmond, and after wards capture at the battle of Cold Harbor, remaining seven months a prisoner at Andersonville, and in other Rebel prisons, in consequence of which his health was so much impaired that he has since been unable to perform manual labor.

The Columbia Spy
June 15, 1872
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE - On Monday morning about five o'clock the saw-mill and woolen mill situated on the Conestoga creek, in Conestoga township, and belonging to Rudolph Shenk, were discovered to be on fire, and notwithstanding the efforts made to save them, were burned to the ground, together with all their contents and the adjacent lock-houses, occupied by John McCue. The woolen-mill was run by Mr. Martin Oberholtzer, and the saw-mill, we believe, by Mr. Shenk. The loss is no less than $8,000, and is partly covered by insurance.

The "Local Option" allowed local townships to out law sales of alcohol in their township.
Lancaster Evening Express
Feb. 25, 1873
LOCAL OPTION IN CONESTOGA:
Pursuant to call, a number of citizens of Conestoga township met at the Green Hill school near Petersville on the evening of Feb. 23, for the purpose of discussing the Local Option question. Michael Benedict was elected chairman and B. K. Maynard, Secretary. Casper Hiller offered the following: Whereas, experience has shown us that the use of intoxicating drink in Lancaster county, has been the cause of nine-tenths of all the criminal cases that have been brought before our Courts, at a cost of over sixty thousand dollars per year; Has filled our poorhouses with paupers, at an expense of over fifty thousand dollars; has cased wrongs against wives and children that God's book of remembrance alone can reveal in all its horrors: has caused the premature decay and death of many of our fellow-citizens, who would, but for this curse, have been useful and honored members of society; and has caused profanity, licentiousness, brawls
and vices, that are a disgrace to any community. And whereas, the License system is the hot bed from which eminent these great evils; therefore, Resolved, that we, the citizens of Conestoga township, rejoice in the opportunity given them to express themselves against the continuation of these evils; and to make this expression effectual, we will use all honorable means to induce our neighbors to vote with us on the third Friday of March, ballot remarked on the outside, "License", on the inside, "Against License," The Chairman stated that the preamble and resolution were before the meeting and he invited all present to participate in discussing them. Casper Hiller, Rev. Daniel Rhinear, J. G. Peters, Henry Martin, M. Benedict, Wm. Guiles, P.C. Hiller, and B. K. Maynard spoke in favor of the resolutions, which, on motion, was unanimously adopted.

Lancaster Weekly Express
June 16, 1874
Conestoga Township Items
:
A correspondent of Conestoga Centre sends us the following: In perusing the columns of the Daily and Weekly Express, I see communications from different sections of the county, and I thought that a few items from "Old Conestoga" might be interesting and not amiss. Conestoga township is bound on the north by Lancaster township, northeast by Pequea, south by Martic, southwest by the Susquehanna river, and west Manor. The villages are - Conestoga, Safe Harbor, Petersville, Rockville and Colemanville.
Conestoga Centre: the Sunday School connected with the Reformed church of this village contemplate holding a celebration and strawberry festival in the woods adjoining Dr. B. Kendig's on Saturday, June 20th. From the preparations that are being made, a good time may be anticipated. The Sunday School of the M.E. church under the present superintendency, is in a flourishing condition. They will take a day of pleasure in the woods some time during August, of which you will get the full particulars.
Mr. Wm. Guiles lately sold his wagon-maker shop to his son , Albert Guiles, who is at present carrying on the business on an extensive scale. Any person desiring a new wagon will find it to their interest to give him a call. Mr. Guiles is a young and energetic gentleman of this place, and deserves the general support of the public.
Messrs. Dr. B. Kendig and William Guiles have erected a tobacco packing establishment about the centre of the village. They shipped nine cases of tobacco to Lancaster city last week, and have over four hundred more on hand, each case averaging four hundred pounds. Owing to the dullness of the market the above is considered very good business. Mr. Guiles has been a subscriber to the WEEKLY EXPRESS for more than twenty years, and has received it regularly every Saturday.
Mr. J. J. Jones erected a small blacksmith shop here about sixteen years ago; but today his business has so increased that he had to erect an addition to his shop to accommodate the patrons. His main business is horse-shoeing, and he is the man that can do it.
From all accounts of the papers baseball must be at the highest rage, but there is not a club in this village. The grain and fruit crops are promising here for the season and we expect an abundant supply.
Safe Harbor: The rolling mill and furnace has been stopped for a long time, merely for the want of a supply of coal. "The Port Deposit railroad, which crosses the track here, is rapidly approaching completion, which will supply the demand for coal. After the railroad is completed it will not only make this a business amphitheatre of action and mart of trade and prevailing prosperity, but the hill-tops and valleys of the vicinity, that are now comparatively sterile and neglected, will yield bountifully to the wants of man.
The river is still very low, and rafting closed for the present.
The fish season is past. During the season the subject of general conversation here had been about shad.
E.H.S.

The Columbia Spy
August 1, 1874
DRUGGED AND ROBBED - A man named Bear, from Safe Harbor, well known as a raftsman (in which business he has been engaged for a period of twenty years), was robbed of $190 in West Philadelphia on Thursday morning. He had been down to New Jersey, collecting money that was due him, and it is believed that he was watched and drugged before the thieves accomplished their purpose.

Lancaster Express
September 3, 1874
COLD BLOODED MURDER AT SAFE HARBOR:
Our Lancaster county exchanges have been full of the particulars, for some time past, of the performances of Baird & Howell�s Grand Chicago Circus, which has been "doing" the small towns, and on Monday they performed at Safe Harbor. Mr. Andrew J. Leibley, of this city, is their ticket age. On Monday evening, it sees, there were quite a number of colored men at and around the circus, and a battle between the whites and colored people seemed imminent; but no actual outbreak occurred. After the evening�s performances, at about eleven o�clock, some half a dozen of the colored men gathered at Miller�s mansion House, in the village, where the circus men where stopping, and a fracas ensued, during which one of the circus men (name as yet unknown) came running down stairs, and when within a few feet of a colored man named Thomas Robinson, deliberately fired the contents of a revolver at him as the latter ran past the front door of the balcony. Robinson did not fall when shot but continued to run, the circus man following and discharging three more shots at him as he plunged into the creek. Robinson fell in the stream and would doubtless have been drowned had not William Williamson came over from the manor side and rescued him. He was taken to Miller�s stable, where Dr. J. C. Gatchell was called and extracted the ball - the only one which took effect - from his side, under the ribs, where it had lodged in the region of the heart. The unfortunate man, who is without family and without friends (having come here from West Virginia and obtained employment at laboring work on the railroad), lingered until yesterday, when he died from his injuries. An inquest was held by Deputy Coroner Groff, of Conestoga Centre, yesterday afternoon, Drs. Clinger and Gatchell making the post-mortem examination. Witnesses testified that the deceased had not given offence to any one, but was perfectly innocent in the matter. The jury returned a verdict that "deceased had died from injuries received by a pistol shot fired by a member of Baird & Howell�s Circus Company," and the greatest indignation exists among the people of that vicinity against the cold-blooded murder. The company performed at Strasburg yesterday, but where they are to-day we have not been informed. No arrest has yet been made.

Express
December 16, 1874
THE SAVE HARBOR MURDER: A correspondent of the Oxford Press, writing from Safe Harbor, revives the particulars of the brutal murder in that place, last summer, as follows:
"On the 1st of September we had an exhibition, which, however amusing in the beginning, ended in a serious tragedy. An itinerant circus and menagerie visited this place; they pitched their tents near the tavern. After the performance of the evening, some colored persons in the barroom were rather boisterous and troublesome. One of the circus troupe, which was a rough set, it is believed, fired a pistol ball into the body of a young colored man with fatal effect. The wounded youth had no relations near here. He was carried to the barn, where he died about noon the next day. An inquest was held, but he murderer was allowed to escape. We never heard of any effort to arrest him. Had the victim been a white man it is probable there would have been more notice taken of the affair."
The above criticism is a just one, and it is certainly a disgrace to the county and to the great State of Pennsylvania that such a crime should be committed within her borders without the least effort on her part to secure the guilty parties. Why have our officials offered no reward for the apprehension of the murder ? Who is to blame in this matter ? The disgrace of the thing should certainly fall on the shoulders of those who deserve it, and should cover them so effectually with its pall that they could never again rise to the position of public servants.

The Columbia Spy
January 12, 1875
County Items
Squire Witmer of Safe Harbor has well preserved apples of the Long Island Russett variety, of the crop of 1876.

Examiner & Herald
January 5, 1876
MARRIAGES
BROOKS-KREIDER - December 30, 1875, at Hess� Swan Hotel, by Rev. Dr. Greenwald, William Brooks, of Pequea, to Lizzie Kreider, of Conestoga.
SAUDER-GRAVER -Dec. 26, 1875, by Rev. W. T. Gerhard, at his residence, No. 31 East Orange street, Martin F. Sauder, of Manor, to Kate M. Graver, of Conestoga.

Examiner & Herald
February 9, 1876
FIRE - On Monday morning a fire broke out in the Conestoga Hall and graded school building, in Conestoga Centre, and before it was quenched the structure was completely burned out. The fire is supposed to have originated from a stove which was in a room that had been occupied on Saturday night by a tribe of Red Men. The loss to the township is $800 - uninsured. The Conestoga Hall Association suffered a loss of $500 - insured in the Farmer�s Mutual of Lancaster county. A teacher in the graded school loses about $35 worth of books by the fire.

Examiner and Herald
March 15, 1876
ITEMS FROM CONESTOGA - Our Conestoga correspondent writes as follows:
The churches of this place have been holding revival meetings during the winter with marked success; on Wednesday evening the German Reformed Church began a series of meetings which continued during the remainder of the week. Rev. Dr. Kenegy, of Lancaster, preached on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
The Conestoga Lyceum met in Bishop�s school house on Wednesday evening. The Lyceum has been in existence about four months and is in a prosperous condition. On Wednesday evening the following officers were elected; President, D. G. Kendig, Vice President, B. K. Maynard, Secretary, Miss S. A. Hess, Treasurer P.C. Hiller, Editor, B. S. McLane, esq., Executive Committee, H. H. Rhinier and B. K. Maynard.
The work of rebuilding the school house, recently destroyed by fire, has been commenced; when completed the building is to be two stories high, to contain two school rooms, fitted up in the most approved style, and to be used exclusively for the graded school. The Red Men, who formerly occupied the upper floor, will probably build a hall on another site.
A few days since, as B. F. Hookey, butcher, was returning from market, and while he was descending the hill south of Lancaster, on New Danville turnpike, the pole of his wagon broke; his horse, becoming unmanageable, run violently down the hill, under the railroad bridge, and upset the wagon in crossing the bridge. There were two other persons in the wagon with Mr. Hookey and with their assistance he succeeded in stopping the horse on this side of the bridge. The wagon was completely demolished. Fortunately, the parties escaped with but a few scratches.

The work on the Columbia & Port Deposit Railroad goes on rapidly; the road is now completed to the bridge which crosses to Pequea at its mouth. The company has put down a siding for the accommodation of Grubb & Co., at their ore bank, Shenk�s Ferry, and on Saturday ran the first cars under the chute.
As a result of the changeable weather which March has brought us, everybody "has it bad," and nose that it has become epidemic.
Examiner & Herald
April 5, 1876
Conestoga Items. - The Lyceum met on Wednesday evening. P. C. Hiller read an essay denouncing "extremes" the essay was in keeping with the subject. Question for debate _ "Does foreign emigration benefit the United States ? " The referred questions, recitation, and Ventilator were very interesting, music excellent, and altogether the exercises were entertaining and instructive, the house was crowded , which indicates that the Lyceum is appreciated.
Having for many6 years felt the want of a public hall, a number of our most enterprising citizens, some time ago, formed an association for the purpose of building one, became quite enthusiastic and subscribed more than enough money to pay for the building; a committee was appointed to secure one of several suitable sites, when it was found that the parties owning the ground would not sell "for any such purpose." The association is consequently compelled to wait until intelligence hall take the place of prejudice and old-fogy-ism.
The deposit of iron ore at Grubb�s bank, Shenk�s Ferry, is said to surpass, in quantity and quality, the most sanguine expectations of those interested; about thirty workmen are employed, the bank yielding form forty to fifty ions, daily. The ore is being shipped to Columbia, on the C.&P.D. R. R.
The hotel in this place, formerly occupied by Benjamin Hess, has been rented by Jacob Walters, of Safe Harbor, who took possession on Saturday. Mr. H. has moved to Gatchelville, York county, Mr. S. S. Welsh, a resident of this place for more than thirty years, has removed to Columbia.
The bridge on the Columbia & Port Deposit Railroad, which crosses Pequea creek has been completed, and the track laid to a considerable distance below that point.
Rev. S. G. Hare has sufficiently recovered from his late illness to go to Conference.
It was the wife of Rudolph Hess, of Pequea township, who met with an accident last week, and not the wife of Rudolph Shenk as published in the Examiner. Our correspondent pleads guilty - sentence deferred.

This is the first reference I've seen to Summer School in Conesotga. Night school first shows up in December 30, 1890
Examiner & Herald
April 12, 1876
Conestoga Items - A number of the schools of this district have already closed and the rest will close this week. B. S. McLane will open a "summer school" on Monday, the 17th inst.
Hog cholera, by which Adam Bortzfield lost over thirty hogs during last fall and winter, has again made its appearance. All of John P. Good�s hogs died last week.
A few days ago Jacob Urban, cabinetmaker, whose property adjoins the G.R. Cemetery, was attracted to the latter place by the peculiar barking of his dog. Upon his arrival he discovered a large black cat at which the dog was barking furiously. The cat paid no attention to the dog nor to Mr. Urban until he struck her lightly with a stick which he happened to have in his hand, when she sprang upon the dog and fastening her teeth in his lip hung for more than a minute before she could be shaken off. Mr. U., again poked the stick towards here when she seized it with her teeth and clung so tenaciously as to be raised off the ground. A large dog belonging to B. F. Hookey then came upon the scene and succeeded in killing the cat but not without receiving a number of severe scratches. The cat is supposed to have been suffering with Hydrophobia at the time.

Sudden Death of Rev. S. G. Hare - At 2 o�clock Tuesday morning, Rev. S. G. Hare, a much esteemed divine of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a member of the Philadelphia Conference, died at the residence of Mr. Ruel Speakman, in Philadelphia. He was present at the session of the Conference on Saturday morning and attended public worship on Sunday evening.
For some days previous to his death he had complained of feeling unwell, but no serious symptoms were developed until his return from services at the Kensington Church on Sunday evening, when he was taken very ill, and continued to grow worse until yesterday morning, when his death took place. One son was the only member of his family present during his last hours. His wife and family were sent for and went to Philadelphia yesterday, where it is probably he will be buried on Thursday.
Mr. Hare was aged about 55 years and was widely known, not only in this county but in the state. He was a well beloved and honored son of an Ancient Alma Mater to many other more prominent but less deserving sons - Dickinson College, at Carlisle. Rev. Hare entered the Philadelphia Conference in 1843, and at the time of his death was in the second year of the pastorate of Safe Harbor M.E. Church, this county. He was in every respect a most estimable gentleman, and leaves a widow and four or five children. Our Conestoga correspondent writes us that he had been in ill health for some time, and for several weeks previous to his going to Conference, was confined to bed. He had partially recovered and, on Wednesday, left home for Philadelphia, where up to Saturday evening his health had been constantly improving.
It is a remarkable coincidence that this is the second death that has taken place in the membership of the Conference during its present session.

Conestoga News. - The Lyceum met in Bishop�s school-house on Wednesday evening. Miss S. A. Hess read an essay on "American Independence." The essay was well written and suited to the times. After the usual number of referred questions had been disposed of B. S. McLane read "Jamie Butler and the owl" as only the �Squire can do it.� The debate on the resumption of specie payment" was, as might have been expected, poor; singing - ordinary, Ventilator - good, and critic - mad. The Lyceum will hold its last meeting for this season Wednesday evening next.
The M. E. Sunday-school met on Sunday afternoon to elect officers for the summer session; there was a larger attendance than usual, indication that the interest taken in the school is increasing. B. F. Hookey was elected Superintendent with George Aument, assistant; they take charge of the school under the most favorable auspices, and there is every reason to believe that; in their hands it will prosper. The library is to be replenished, and the school rendered otherwise attractive.
Rev. Alfred Shenkle has, during the winter, delivered weekly lectures in the German Reformed Church. A catechumenical class has been formed. The lectures are announced for every Thursday evening indefinitely.
Benjamin Warfel has erected a new dwelling house on land adjoining that of the Evangelical Church; the house is to be occupied by the sexton.
On Monday (today) the passenger train passed over the Columbia and Port Deposit Railroad. The trail will make three trips daily from Columbia to the end of the road and return. As the road extends further down the river the business of Lancaster will suffer proportionately; the trade from the lower end of the county and from all points along the line will naturally be attracted to Columbia. It is expected that a branch road will be built from Safe Harbor to some point on the Quarryville and Lancaster road. Several routes have been surveyed for this purpose.

The Columbia Spy
May 20, 1876
For Recorder
We, the undersigned citizens of Conestoga Centre, being intimately acquainted with our neighbor, Mr. John P. Good, know him to be sober, honest and upright in all his dealings, and we consider him worth of the sympathy and support of the voters of the Republican party, at the ensuing primary election.
                      Dr. B. S. Kendig                 William Guiles
	                               George Aument                  P. S. Clinger
	                               B. F. Hookey,	          Andrew Good
	                               Jocob Henry                       P.M. Bruner
	                               Jacob B. Urban                  John Clark
	                               John Kendig, M.D.              Benjamin Good
                                                                                                                       May 20th, 1876

Examiner & Herald
July 7, 1876
Conestoga News - From our Correspondent - The recent rains were welcomed by a host of farmers and others who were waiting for a suitable season for planting tobacco and, although Monday was a holiday which they usually observe, nearly all the available plants were set out; on account of the scarcity of plants a number of persons who had engaged land from farmers for the purpose of raising tobacco "on the shares" have thrown up their contracts; plants see at from 75 cents to $2.50 per 1000. Among those who planted last week, Patent Office Reports, Legislative Journals, etx, were in great demand, they having introduced a novel method for protecting the plants from the direct rays of the sun, viz: -to cover each plant with a leaf of paper, retraining it in its position by a stone or clod placed on each corner; although rather tedious, this plan, if carefully observed, is said to insure the growth of the plant.
On Sunday evening a four year old daughter of P.C. Hiller met with a painful accident while at play with her sister. She ran up stairs and had reached the top, when she made a mis-step and fell back the entire length of the stairs. Besides a number of severe bruises, her collar-bone was broken; medical aid was obtained and at last accounts she was doing as well as could be expected.
A rain storm, the most violent of the season, visited the place on Saturday evening; the rain descended in torrents, hillside fields were badly washed and quite a number of fruit and other trees blown down.
Last week, as a horse belonging to Rev. D. Rhinier was being hitched to a buggy, he suddenly became frightened, started to run, and before he could be caught, the buggy was upset, the top broken off, and the buggy otherwise injured.
About the usual number of lads and lassies went to Lancaster yesterday to see Whitsuntide, and we hope they enjoyed it. If they did not may be the Lancastrians died.
Hiller attempted to split an oak block with a hatchet last week; he got on his knees, held the block up with his left hand, struck with his right, then got up, tried to fit the pieces of his left index finger together and started to the house for a rag; now he thinks if he had taken the ax it wouldn�t have happened.
A gentleman from Virginia who visited this place recently reports a great failure of tobacco plants in that state and Kentucky - the principal cause being the fly.

Examiner and Herald
July 19, 1876
Conestoga News - From our correspondent - The crops, which in the early part of last week were being dried up by the heat, have been greatly refreshed and benefited by recent rains and promise an abundant yield. Tobacco is gowning rapidly with no drawback except the works, which are very numerous in some localities. Corn had attained an advanced growth and was injured to some extent by the dry weather but has again assumed a healthy appearance and will be a good crop; several of our farmers will have corn fit for the table the latter part of his week.
On Tuesday, Andrew Good, while repairing his reaper, mashed his thumb by having it caught between the bed of the reaper and a wrench which he was using, the wound, although not serious, is quite painful.
Jacob Thomas fell from a grain stack last week and fractured several ribs, besides sustaining other slight injuries.
It is reported that, during the storm of last Tuesday, the lightning struck into Benjamin Eshleman�s barn, knocking down three of his horses but doing no other damage, the horses soon recovered from the effects of the shock.
B.K. Dellinger was prostrated by the heat last week, while at work in the filed, and confined to bed for several days; he has since recovered.
Monday - the day, and Bishop�s school- the place. A boy who is to be put on the next investigating committee asks and obtains permission to "go ont;" discovers a bumble�-bee�s nest in a post, makes an attack and gallantly retreats to the school house closely pursued by a bee, which follows him into the room to the great consternation of all within. Bishop is up in bum-bee tactics and orders perfect quiet, expecting the bee to retire, which he does though the open door. After reconnoitering a short time he again invades the building, counts the number of boys, guesses at the girls and withdraws to make his calculations - subtracting 2 for the Bishop. As he departs all feel better and braver; girls study, boys talk and Bishop prepares to wrestle with the young idea, when the bee enters for a third time; driven to desperation, Bishop at last sees that war is inevitable and boldly resolved to fight it out on that line and the battle begins - two boys have their eyes bunged shut and the for is slain. Bishop named him Custer, not because he was killed by Sitting Bull, but one of the stung boys cussed her because the wound hurt Sioux.
Peaches are abundant and many of the trees are breaking down overladen with green fruit.
The music of the reaper is succeeded by the melody of the threshing machine.
Green apples, green cucumbers, green corn, and green people promise to keep physicians busy.
Services in the M.E. church for next Sunday, July 23, are announced as follows: Safe Harbor 7:30 p.m., F. M. Brady; Conestoga Centre 10:00 a.m. F. M. Brady, 6:00 p.m. J. R. Smith; Marticville 19:00a.m., H. H. Barton, 7:30 p.m., J Hite ; Boehm�s 2:30 p.m., H. H. Barton, 7:30 p.m, H. Hess.

Examiner & Herald
July 26, 1876
Conestoga News. - From our correspondent. - The second case of sun-stroke, in this vicinity, occurred on last Thursday morning. B. F. Henry, while engaged in harvesting oats on the farm of Andrew Good, was prostrated by the heat and carried to his home in an unconscious condition. A physician was at once summoned and he was soon restored to consciousness and has since recovered.
Arrangements are being made for a camp-meeting, to be held in Rhodes woods near Safe Harbor, under the auspices of the Methodist church, during the latter part of next month or early in September. Services in the above church, on next Sunday, 30th inst., will be as follows: Safe Harbor, 7:30 p.m., D. Rinier; Conestoga Centre, 6 p.m., G. A. Tripple; Marticville, 10 a.m. , F. M. Brady, 7:30 p.m., M. Benedict; Boehm�s, 2:30 p.m., F.M. Brady, 7:30 p.m., J.R. Smith.
On Tuesday, a hen belonging to Jacob Bitts, on this place, laid an egg which measures 7 5/8 inches around its longer, and 6 5/8 inches around it shorter circumference and weighs a quarter of a pound. She is certainly entitled to Centennial honors and places Conestoga one ahead.
J.R. Yentzer has removed the dwelling house which he formerly occupied and has begun the erection of a new building which is to be large and of a more modern style than the old one and will, no doubt, contribute to the beauty of the town.
The M.E. Sabbath School will hold its annual celebrations, in Mehaffy�s Grove, on Saturday, August 19th. A number of speakers will be present which together with the music by the school, will render the occasion interesting to old and young.

Examiner & Herald
August 2, 1876
CONESTOGA NEWS - From our correspondent. - Among farmers the complaint is general that the grass sown last spring did not take, and many of the wheat fields will have to be ploughed and re-seeded in order to get them into grass; the grass is supposed to have sprouted early and frozen out. The rain of the past two days was greatly needed in this locality; corn will be benefited probably to a greater extent than any other crop; potatoes which have not yielded well so far, pasture results from the rain. Tobacco generally looks well in and immediately around the village, but not so well in remote parts of the township.
Christian K. Miller, a widely-known farmer of this place, and a prominent member of the Conestoga School Board, died on Sunday morning after a protracted illness; the funeral will take place on Wednesday morning at Mt. Zion Evangelical church.
The M.E. Church announces the following for next Sunday, August 6th -Safe Harbor, 10 a.m., F.M. Brady, 7:30 p.m., G.A. Tripple; Conestoga Centre, 6 p.m., F.M. Brady; Marticville, 10 a.m., J. Sensenig, 7:30 p.m., A. Charles; Boehm�s, 2:30 p.m., J. Sensenig, 7:30 p.m., M. Benedict; Green Hill, 3 p.m., F. M. Brady.
The camp meeting to be held on this charge has not yet been definitely announced.
Some of the farmers who intended holding their tobacco over the year sold recently. A number of wagons passed through the village last week and the packing house of Kendig& Co., has again opened for a few days.

The Columbia Spy
April 27, 1878
The lower end is excited over the discovery of a silver mine at Safe Harbor. York county comes along with a copper mine in Lower Chanceford township, just discovered.

The Columbia Spy
July 13, 1878
NOTICE TO LIQUOR SELLERS
I hereby give notice to all tavern and saloon keepers, liquor dealers, &c. not to sell me any more malt or spirituous liquers, from this time henceforth, under penalty of the law.
John Diem.
Safe Harbor, Pa.
June 23, 1878

The Columbia Spy
September 28, 1878
LARGE FUNERAL - The funeral of Mr. Jacob Bair, whose death took place in Safe Harbor, was held on last Sunday. The services at the grave were conducted by a committee of the Masonic order, the deceased being a member of the Charles M. Howell Lodge, of Safe Harbor. After the services, the large concourse of persons repaired to the church, where the Rev. F. Brady, of the M. E. church, Safe Harbor, preached a very able sermon. Mr. Bair leaves a large family and a host of friends to mourn his sudden death. He was in his 56th year.

The Columbia Spy
Nov. 2, 1878
MARRIED
Married, Oct. 24th, by the same, at the same place, (at the U.B. parsonage, at Millersville, Pa. by Rev. A. H. Kauffman) Henry Clark, of Conestoga, and Catharine Weidlich, of Manor.

The Columbia Spy
November 30th, 1878
DEAR APPLES. - Geo. Campbell and Edward McFarland, both boatmen from Safe Harbor, having a little leisure time on Saturday, started out on a foraging expedition around Columbia, broke open the seal of a freight car, stole a barrel of apples, came back for more, were arrested, and lodged in Castle Weise to await trial.

The Columbia Spy
December 21, 1878
The Herrs as Masons. - The following item, showing the officers recently elected by Charles M. Howell Lodge, No. 42, F. & A.M., Safe Harbor, shows what a numerous family the Herrs are.
Worshipful Master - Issiah Herr
Senior Warden - D. S. Herr
Junior Warden - Silas Herr
Treasurer - David Davis
Secretary - W. W. Bones.
Chaplain - E. B. Herr.
Senior Deacon - D. O. Herr
Junior Deacon - H. M. Herr
S. M. C. -Rachman Herr
J. M. C. - H. Miller
Persuivant, Andrew Pagen
Tyler - James Barton.

Local Intelligence
County Treasurer-elect Samuel A. Groff has appointed Mr. David Warfel as Clerk in his office. Mr. Warfel is a native of Conestoga township, and formerly lived at Safe Harbor, but is now and has been for some time a resident of the city.

The Daily New Era
Friday, January 10, 1879
Conestoga Items
A "Murphy" Needed
Quite a number of young men, we are informed from a reliable source, are in the habit of taking a flask of whiskey with them to church and there partaking of it: but worse than all a certain young lady is known to have taken a bottle of wine with her to Mt. Zion Evangelical Church on several occasions, especially on New Year's eve, and sharing its contents with others. These are facts that can be substantiated by the most reliable evidence.

The Columbia Spy
January 25, 1879
PLEAD GUILTY - On Tuesday Edward McFarland and George Campbell, of Safe Harbor, plead guilty to the charge of stealing a quantity of apples, valued at about $3.00, the property of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and were each sentenced to three months' imprisonment.
These parties were detected and arrested by special officer Gilbert of the P. R. R. police force.

See in the Conestotga listing of May 8th, 1858, the orignal account of his incident. The editor of the Spy seems to be correct this is an incorrect rememberance of the events.
The Columbia Spy
March 8, 1879
There are some old residents living in Washington borough, that distinctly remember the time, not so many years ago, when a break was made in the Harbor dam by the ice. The fishermen, and parties residing at Safe Harbor, repaired the break as well as could be done, by placing timbers, &c, in it. Now, which did the consistent Columbians do ? They marched down to this dam, to the number of 50 or more, and promptly tore out the repairs that had been made, saying, while they did so, that it was not right and was unlawful for obstructions to be made to the free passage of fish up the Susquehanna. A suit was at once instituted against these wreckers, and the case taken to the Supreme Count, where the decision rendered was "that the Harbor dam was a nuisance, and as such should be abated."
What a whopper ! Where is all the records of the Supreme Court in this case reported ? Do tell us the page.

The Columbia Spy
April 19, 1879
Political Announcements
For Recorder
John P. Good, of Conestoga Twp.
I once more present my name to the Republican voters for Recorder of Deeds. I was a member of Company K., 203 Penn'a Vols. and lost my leg at the storming of Fort Fisher, which, in connection with my being a poor man, will prevent as it has hereto fore prevented me from thoroughly canvassing the county, and seeing all my friends. My son, also a member of the Union Army, died in the field in Texas. Having received the second highest vote for Recorder three years ago, and within a little more than 300 of the nomination, I trust the good people of this county will stand by me this time.
Subject to the Republican Rules at the ensuing primary election.

New Era May 10, 1879
SAFE HARBOR ITEMS
Almost a Centenarian
Mrs. Sterret, an aged colored lady, living with her son Eliji Levi, near our village, celebrated the 99th anniversary of her birth on last Wednesday, the 4th instant. She is quite active for one of her age, being able to walk about with perfect ease.
Memorial
Mrs. Anna Lines, relict of the late John Lines, departed this life on last Sunday morning in her 89th year. The funeral will take place from the house of her son, Abraham Lines, near Safe Harbor.
Personal
Rev. F. M. Brady, of New Holland, formerly past of the Safe Harbor circuit, was visiting in this vicinity during the greater part of last week.

The Columbia Spy
May 31, 1879
Another Storm
In Conestoga Centre the damage was still greater. Lightning struck the residence of Peter Hiller and set it on fire, the flames being subdued with considerable difficulty. Mr. Hiller was knocked insensible by the shock, but was not seriously injured. Mr. Hiller's house and the residence of his father Casper Hiller, are connected by a telephone. Along this the lightning ran, entered the residence of Casper Hiller and knocked him senseless also. For a short time it was thought that he was dead, but a physician who was called in, soon brought him back to consciousness. Casper Hiller is a brother of our Jacob Hiller of Columbia.

The Columbia Spy
June 25, 1879
On Wednesday while a four mule ore team was being ferried across the Conestoga at Safe Harbor, the weight of the load forced out a portion of the bottom of the flat in which they were being taken over. The flat filled with water and went to the bottom of the creek, carrying the team along with it. Luckily the water was but four feet deep, so that no very serious damage was done.
At last accounts "Jack" of the Intelligencer had the mules standing in the water.

The Columbia Spy
July 5, 1879
The Safe Harbor Sunday school will "excursh" to Fountain Dale Park, on the C.&P.D. R. R., on July 24th.

The Daily New Era
Tuesday, September 9, 1879
Concert
The Conestoga Quartette gave one of their entertainments in the German Reformed church of Conestoga Centre, for the benefit of the church, on Saturday evening. It was the richest treat our music loving people have had the pleasure of listening to for a long time, the program consisted of the following quartets, duets, solos and choruses;
"Where is Home?" "In the Starlight;" Good Night, My Dearest;" "We shall Meet All the Little Ones;" serenade, "Wake Love, Awake;" "My Pretty Red Rose;" "Sunset;:" "Tell Me the Wish of Thy Heart;" "The Farmer and His Girls;" "Come, Rise with the Lark;" " Come Where the Lilies Bloom;" "Dreams of Home." The entire program was a success.
Our little village has, within the last few years, become quite musical. There are no less than fourteen organs and pianos, a quartette and a brass band in it. In the township entire, there are eighteen organs and four pianos making an average of one musical instrument to about every thirty families.
Religious
Sermons were preached in the Evangelical church on Sunday morning and Monday evening. Rev. Moore preached in the German Reformed church on Sunday morning. In the afternoon and evening a division of "Dunkers" known as the River Brethren held meetings in the same church.
Sunday-school Library
The M.E. Sunday-school on Sunday afternoon agreed to expend twenty-five dollars for a new library, and appoint a committee of two to make the selection.

The Columbia Spy
September 27, 1879
NO SIGNS OF A DUCK�S NEST. - The other day, David Reeves, a son of the original owner of the Safe Harbor iron works, and John Griffin, former Superintendent, visited Safe Harbor and "spent part of the day gunning among the Harbor hills." Immediately some one informed the Lancaster Intelligence that " there is a strong probability of the starting up of the old iron works."
If idle rolling mills can be started up by two men going gunning, we are in favor of turning out half the town for the purpose of gunning the old Columbia rolling mill into operation.

The Safe Harbor Iron Company closed in 1865 when the canal that allowed raw materials and fishished product to be shipped was destroyed in a storm. The construction of the Port Deposit Railroad provided for a new method of shipping goods in and out of Safe Harbor.
The Columbia Spy
December 27, 1879
Local Intelligence
Mr. Isaac Reeves, who has had charge of the mill of the Phoenix Iron Company, at Ford street, is to go to Safe Harbor, Lancaster county, to take charge of the works of the company at that place, where it is expected to commence operations in a short time.
                                                                - Norristown Herald.                    

Lancaster New Era
January 15, 1880
Adam Maynard, in passing over a foot-log, last Saturday, lost his balance and in falling, a large iron hook that was fastened in the log caught his hip so securely as to hold him there until a companion who was with him could find help to remove him. Dr. Clinger attended him.
Joseph Witmer, working on the Safe Harbor siding, met with a painful accident while attempting to lift a large stone, that resulted in crushing his finger. Entertainment
A dramatic and literary entertainment will be held shortly in Minerva Hall, the proceeds to be for the benefit of the Conestoga lyceum. This society has lately purchased about fifty dollars worth of furniture and other fixtures, and wishes to cancel the remaining part of the debt. Their entertainments are always of an instructive character and should be well patronized by the public.
Reorganization
The General Reynolds Cornet Band has lately been reorganized. The band now consists of twenty members and presents a promising appearance. Eight new instruments have been purchased, including a fine tenor drum and a trombone. Two evenings each week are devoted to practice, so as to be ready for the ensuing Presidential campaign.>br>
Religious
The annual revival of the M.E. church has just been brought to a close, after a term of five weeks. Several conversions were made. The inclemency of the weather prevented it from being as successful as usual.
Prof. Strunck, of Franklin and Marshall College, preached in the Reform church last Sunday morning, the pastor, Rev. J. P. Moore, being unwell.

The Columbia Spy
February 14, 1880
THE SAFE HARBOR WORKS. - Mr. Isaac Reeves, who has had charge of the Phoenix Iron company�s mills at Norristown, but who was recently appointed superintendent of the iron works of the same company at Safe Harbor, has removed with his family in that place and entered upon his duties there. Jesse Hull, Jr., of Phoenixville, has just put the Safe Harbor works in thorough repair and has added many improvements in the machinery.

The Columbia Spy
February 28, 1880
FOR SAFE HARBOR - On Tuesday morning we noticed 30 freight cars on the C. & P. D., siding, on Front street, filled with pig iron, and consigned to the Safe Harbor Rolling Mill. The mill, at that point, will commence work on Monday next. Good for Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
March 20, 1880
MORE BUSINESS - A correspondent writes from Washington Borough as follows:
Special trains are now running on the Columbia and Port Deposit Railroad from Columbia to Safe Harbor with coal and pig iron for the Harbor works. The regular trains cannot carry all the freight. It is rumored that another passenger train will be put on. This will be a great accommodation to the traveling public.

The Columbia Spy
March 27, 1880
Neighborhood News Condensed
The puddlers at Safe harbor Iron Works have struck for an increase of wages. The works are now closed and about 150 men are thrown out of employment.

The Columbia Spy
May 29, 1880
BAD FOR THE IRON WORKERS - The Safe Harbor Iron Works were shut down on Saturday last to stay shut. The workmen were advised to return to their homes. The bosses returned to Phoenixville, some of the puddlers left by the R. & C. R. R. on Tuesday afternoon.
About twenty-five puddlers, with a full complement of helpers, rollers, laborers, &c., have all been thrown out of employment, and Safe Harbor will be as dull as usual. The iron workers have very gloomy prospects before them.

New Era
June 7th, 1880
Celebrated Her Centennial
On Saturday, Mrs. Levi, colored, residing with her son, Elijah Levi, between Conestoga Centre and Safe Harbor, celebrated the 100th anniversary of her birthday. The General Reynolds band, of Conestoga Centre, honored the aged lady with a serenade. About three hundred of her neighbors called during the day and evening to pay their respects to Mrs. Levi.

Lancaster New Era
Monday, July 26, 1880
Rural Items: Conestoga Centre
Sunday school Celebration in Warfel's Grove, Conestoga's Garfield Club-The late Crops Helped by the rain-Festivals and Personals.
The M.E. Sunday-school of Conestoga Centre held their annual celebration on Saturday, July 24. The scholars, teachers and officers assembled at the church at 8 o'clock and forming in procession headed by the General Reynolds Cornet Band, marched to the grove of John M. Warfel, about one mile distant. Arriving there prayer was offered by Ref. J. M. Harkins, who also addressed the school in a few appropriate remarks. After music by the band, the school was dismissed until dinner was prepared, when the lady friends of the school arranged the tables with the good things prepared for the occasion of which there was an abundance of every think to satisfy the appetite of an epicure. Dinner being announced, the school fell to work to satisfy the "inner man" which they did with a right good will. having done ample justice to the good things, the young folks enjoyed themselves in plays of different kinds, while the older folks held friendly conversion together until the sun began to descend the western horizon, when all went to their homes well pleased with the day's pleasures. Too much praise cannot be given to Mr. Emory Hart, the efficient superintendent, and his able assistants, for making this celebration a success in every particular, and they hereby request us to extend the thanks of the school to all who aided and assisted in any way; also, to Mr. Warfel for the use of his grove.
A goodly number of Republican voters of this township met pursuant to call in Minerva Hall, at Conestoga Centre, on Saturday evening, July 24. The meeting was called to order by B. F. Hookey, county committeeman of this township, who, in a few well chosen re remarks, stated the object of the meeting, when B. F. Hookey was chosen President and H. H. Rhinier, secretary for the evening. A permanent organization was effected by the election of the following officers: President Henry Kurtz; Vice Presidents, B. F. Hookey, B. S. McLane and Valentine Kneisly; Secretary, H. H. Rhinier; Treasurer, Andrew Good. The following gentlemen were elected a committee on general business: B. F. Sterneman, P. Sl. Clinger, Dr. B. S. Kendig, John W. Urban, B. F. Hookey, Dr. J. L. Mowery, H. H. Kurtz, Samuel B. Good and Lewis Kirk, and the following as a committee on constitution and by-laws: B. S. McLane, Jacob Bitts, Martin Kendig (farmer), Samuel B. Good and Henry Hall. There being no other business in order, B. F. Hookey stated that an opportunity would be given to all who wished to enroll when forty persons stepped forward and subscriber their names.
The meeting adjourned with three rousing cheers for Garfield and Arthur, to meet again on Saturday evening, July 31, at 8:30 o'clock, at the same place, when and where all Republicans of the township are respectfully invited to attend. The General Reynolds Cornet Band was present and enlivened the occasion with a selection of choice music. This is a fine musician organization, composed of young men and under the leadership of David K. Kendig. It promises to be one of the best bands in the county.
Crops-Tobacco.
The farmers in this township have all finished harvesting their crops, and have commenced plowing for fall seeding. The rain of the past week has helped the corn, potatoes and tobacco crop, the latter growing very rapidly. Some persons have topped some few small patches but as yet we have not heard of any being cut in this community. The acreage is very large, and the prospect is that we shall have a good yield of very fine and large tobacco.

The New Era
August 25, 1880,
Colored Woods Meeting
A woods meeting, under the auspices of the Bethel A.M.E. church of Conestoga Centre, was held in John M. Warfel�s grove, near the village, which was largely attended. There were only about fifty colored persons on the grounds, and about seven hundred white persons. Four sermons were preached, and several exhortations delivered. Not a single case of disturbance occurred to mar the pleasure of the worshippers.

The Columbia Spy
Oct. 2, 1880
Death of Maj. R. W. Shenk
.
On Sunday afternoon, Maj. R. W. Shenk of Lancaster died, in the 46th year of his age. He had been unconscious for days before his death, which is indirectly attributable to the sever fall which he received at York Furnace Springs Bridge, on Wednesday, about five weeks ago, and from which he never recovered. The deceased was born in Conestoga township, Lancaster county, Pa., on the 4th day of October, 1834. His parents were Christian Shenk (now deceased) and Mary Warfel Shenk, and his ancestors were among the earliest settlers of Lancaster county. He attended school at Lititz, under Prof. John Beck from 1849 to 1851. In 1851 he entered Dartmouth College, where he graduated in 1858. He read law with Hon. Thaddeus Stevens, and was admitted to the bar in November, 1860. At the breaking out of the rebellion, he enlisted in Company F (Lancaster Fencibles), Captain Emlin Franklin, First Regiment Penn'a Volunteers, and served until the expiration of their term of enlistment, as a private. In August, 1862, he was appointed Major of the 135th regiment of Penn'a Volunteers, and served with the same until it was mustered out of service at the expiration of its term of enlistment. He was appointed deputy marshal of the Ninth district, Pennsylvania, in June 1863, and was elected to the Legislature in the years 1864-65.
Major Shenk took an active part in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and afterwards spent seven months on the banks of the James river, arranging for the exchange of prisoners, in which capacity he won much praise.
Maj. Shenk was active in the promotion of the interests of Lancaster city. When Captain McMellen became Prothonotary and resigned his membership in Select Council, Major Shenk was elected to fill the vacancy, and was made chairman of the Street Committee. In this capacity, says the New Era, he pushed the work of improving the streets of the city most vigorously, and to his individual exertion and enthusiasm on the subject, in the face of many obstacles, more than to any other one person in the community, do our citizens owe a dept of gratitude for the Belgian blocks with which East King street, Centre Square and North Queen street are now paved. Nor was this the only public work to which the city owes him a dept of gratitude. He was one of the most active members of the Monumental Association, who were instrumental in having the beautiful monument to the memory of our dead heroes erected in Centre Square.
At the time of his death he was still a member of Councils, a member of the Monumental Association, of the Grand Army of the Republic, of the Lancaster Bar, of the Masonic fraternity, President of the Quarryville railroad, a director in the Sunbury and Lewistown Railroad Co., President of the Third Ward Garfield club, and was connected with other organizations and interests; and in all of them he was a moving spirit. He was a man of wonderful energy, and was generous almost to a fault. His generous impulses found vent in public as well as in private life, and to his widowed sister, Mrs. O. J. Dickey, he was a most devoted brother, friend, counselor and helper.

This accident came about because Republicans were celebrating the election of James A. Garfield as President of the United States. This was probably the end of the last Griffin gun at Safe Harbor. Garfield served less than a year, dying September 19, 1881, from the effects of an assassin�s bullet.
The Columbia Spy
November 13, 1880
Terrible Accident at Safe Harbor
Two men Killed and a Third and Two Women Injured.
On Wednesday evening a terrible accident occurred at Safe Harbor, to which two men were killed and several persons were badly injured. The citizens of that place are the owners of a three pound cannon, which was manufactured at that place years ago. It was made of wrought iron. On Wednesday evening the Republicans of the village determined to celebrate their victory by firing off the gun, which was taken to a point on the common, between the hotels and rolling mill. It was in charge of Elias Funk, who superintended the loading and firing. Five shots were fired without accident, and when the gun was being loaded for the sixth time, the small bag containing the powder burst. It was then agreed to put another load, without removing the first. This was done and the gun was touched off. When it discharged it burst and pieces of it were thrown in different directions. Joseph Taylor and John Aument, two men, were standing together in the road about thirty yards from the gun when it exploded. A piece of the gun about three feet long struck both of them at the same time, crushing their heads. Taylor died in a few minutes and Aument lived until half-past one next morning, when he breathed his last. Mrs. Thomas Crow was standing a few feet behind the men and she was struck by the same piece and had one of her legs broken. Funk, the gunner, had his right leg so badly crushed by being struck by another piece of the gun that the limb had to be amputated above the knee. Mrs. Elmire, was severely, but not seriously injured. Drs. Gatchell, Davis, Clinger, Mowery and Ritter were sent for immediately after the accident and they did all in their power to alleviate the sufferings of the wounded and dying.
Taylor was a man about 38 years. He kept the confectionery store in the village and leaves a wife and two children. Aument was unmarried and 20 years of age. Funk is a married man about 40 years of age, and has a wife and four children. Mrs. Crow has a husband living and si the mother of seven children.
The accident was undoubtedly caused by the double charge of powder, which was placed in the gun, and it is said that those who had charge of the gun were warned in regard to the danger.
Dr. Clinger, deputy coroner, held an inquest on the remains of the deceased and a verdict of "accidental death" was rendered. At last accounts Funk was doing very well. His injuries are not fatal. He was employed in the rolling mill.

New Era
November 19, 1880
OBITUARY
Death of Dr. Samuel S. Mehaffey
Dr. Samuel S. Mehaffey died on Wednesday evening at the residence of Mrs. E. Warfel, in Millersville, where he has been boarding for some time. He was a son of the late Hugh Mehaffey, esq., of Conestoga Centre, studied his profession in the office of Dr. B. S. Kendig, and was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. For several years he was associated with Dr. Kendig in the practice of medicine and afterwards practiced at Marticville and also at Safe Harbor. When the iron works at the latter place was started last summer, he fitted up an office there with the intention of continuing his profession. The works were suddenly closed, however, and he then concluded to take a school and teach during the winter, leaving his office in charge of Mr. A. Hudson, as it was expected the iron works would again go into operation in the spring. He was in his usual health and continued to teach his school up to Friday evening, the 5th inst., when he closed it for the purpose of attending the County Institute last week. He was, however, taken with an attack of intermittent fever and was not in condition to attend. On last Tuesday morning he had so far recovered as to start for his school, which imprudent act possibly resulted in his death. He was compelled to return to the house and grew suddenly worse until Wednesday evening, when he died. Dr. Herr, his attending physician, says that the immediate cause of his death was acute peritonitis, which was preceded by enteritis. The funeral will take place form the residence of Mrs. E. Warfel, on Sunday morning. Services and interment at the M. E. church, Conestoga Centre, at 10 o�clock. Deceased was in his 38th year.

The Columbia Spy
Nov. 20, 1880
ELIAS FUNK IMPROVING - the report that Elias Funk, of Safe Harbor, the gunner who was injured by the cannon explosion, is in a critical condition is not true. Mr. Funk is gradually improving and his physician says he will recover. Last Sunday the family was cautioned not to admit too many persons into his room and this gave rise to the rumor that he was in a dangerous condition.
The two victims of the explosion, who were killed on the evening of the celebration, have both been buried. John Aument, one of the men killed at the time, was buried from Mr. Michael Shenk's residence, at Highville, on Saturday afternoon. It was a large funeral, and the services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Stehman of the United Brethren church.
John J. Taylor was buried from his residence on Sunday afternoon. The services were held in the Methodist church and were conducted by Rev. Mr. Harkins. It was one of the largest funerals ever held in that section. One hundred and forty carriages were in the funeral procession to Mount Zion Cemetery.
The deceased lived in Columbia about eight years ago and kept a cigar store where Mr. W. K. Nowlen now has his tailoring establishment, No. 114 Locust street. He was a member of Columbia Lodge No. 287 F. and A. M.

The Columbia Spy
December 4, 1880
ON DOUBLE TURN - Puddlers and Helpers Wanted. - The Safe Harbor Rolling Mill is very busy with orders, and the General Manager, Mr. Theodore T. Patterson, is correspondingly happy over the prospects. Next Monday the mill will commence running double turn, and the probabilities are that this will be kept up for a long time. A few more puddlers and helpers can get work there at once. Here is an opportunity for our iron workers to get employment. Don�t lose the chance.

The Daily New Era
Lancaster, Pa.
Thursday, December 16, 1880
Conestoga Items
Quite a disorderly crowd gathered in the village of Conestoga, on Tuesday evening, about 10o'clock. They became so noisy that they chased several of the inhabitants out of their beds with their hideous yells and curses.
The Sunday-school connected with the German Reformed church of Conestoga is making preparations to hold an entertainment in their church, at Conestoga Center, on Christmas. It promises to be an enjoyable affair, especially to the little folks.

The Columbia Spy
December 18, 1880
A ROUND HUNDRED - The Safe Harbor Iron Works are running day and night, and give employment to about one hundred men.

The Columbia Spy
December 25, 1880
WANTED
A thoroughly competent First Roller to take charge of Paddle Rolls at Phoenix Iron Co.�s mill, Safe Harbor, Lancaster County.

The Columbia Spy
January 8, 1881
DROWNING CASE AT NORRISTOWN. - Charles Conway, of Norristown, and an employee of the Safe Harbor Iron Works, started out in the snow storm on Tuesday evening last, to go to the house of a friend on Water street, and nothing was known of his whereabouts until Friday afternoon, when his dead body was found under the ice in a mill race. He had evidently missed his way and fallen into the water, drowning there where his cries could not be heard, and where no assistance could reach him. He was about 50 years of age, and had come home from Safe Harbor, where he had been working, to spend the Christmas Holidays. He leaves a wife but no children.

The Columbia Spy
February 12, 1881
LIFE INSURANCE PAID. - Catharine Sourbeer, of Safe Harbor, recently deceased, was insured in 1873 in the U.B. Mutual Aid Society, for $2,000 for the benefit of her son, Milton Sourbeer. On last Saturday the Company paid Mr. Sourbeer the full amount of the Insurance. The cost of the insurance to Mrs. Sourbeer was $300.

The Columbia Spy
March 19, 1881
Elections
For Clerk of Orphans' Court
Amos M. Sourbeer
Of Conestoga township, late of Co. D., First Regiment, P.R.V.C., served 3 1/2 years in the army, and was a prisoner in Andersonville 9 months. (Lieut, Co. D.)

The Columbia Spy
Aug. 6, 1881
SUDDEN DEATH.-Benjamin E. Hess died suddenly at his residence at Rock Hill, Conestoga township, on Monday, aged 40 years. His death is believed to have resulted from eating cucumber. A wife and four children survive him.

The Columbia Spy
September 3, 1881
Local Brevities
The puddlers at the Safe Harbor iron works have had their wages increased by $3.50 to $4.00 per ton - the increase began last Monday.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 10, 1881
EFFECTS OF THE HEAT - On Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Amos Bortzfield, residing in Conestoga township, near Conestoga Centre, was overcome by the heat. He had been hauling tobacco from the field and when he arrived at his shed he became unconscious. A physician was summoned and applied the usual remedies for sunstroke. Mr. Bortzfield is said to be in a critical condition.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 24, 1881
FELL AND BROKE HIS NECK.-On Wednesday Jacob Foutz of Conestoga township, while standing on an extension ladder and picking apples about 24 feet from the ground, fell and broke his neck.

The Daily New Ear
Lancaster, Pa.
Wednesday, January 25, 1882
Conestoga Items
The West Centre school house caught fire on Monday noon, between the plastering of the ceiling and upper floor. The pupils discovered it while the teacher was at dinner and rang the bell. A bucket of water at the proper time saved the building from entire destruction.
Mr. Reuben Brady, while tying up his tobacco on Monday afternoon, dropped dead while tying the second bundle. Deputy Coroner B. F. Hookey held an inquest. Verdict of jury "death from heart disease".
The cold wave reached us, and on Tuesday morning sent the mercury down to four degrees below zero.

Lancaster New Era
March 28, 1882
Conestoga Items
The General Reynolds Cornet Band have purchased a new set of Helicon instruments. The band is in good standing, receiving generous support from the people.
The colored band is also progressing steadily, and will shortly march through the village to show us what they can do after several months practice.

Conestoga Items
A Bright Little Boy
Harry K. Benedict is the name of a six year old pupil that attended Fairview School, taught by Charles H. Fralich. His teacher says that the boy has not missed a single day during the entire term of six months. He reads well in the Third Reader. He adds and subtracts any numbers given, him and writes his reading lesson on his slate each day.
Can the county name an equal ?

The Columbia Spy
April 1, 1882
"Battle Field and Prison Pen," is the title of a new book written by John W. Urban, of Conestoga Centre, Lancaster County. The title indicates the character of the work. It is handsomely bound volume, of 423 pages, appropriately illustrated. The author was a member of Co. C in the First Regiment, Penna. Reserve Infantry. The book contains a graphic recital of his personal experiences throughout the war, during which time he was actively engaged in twenty-five battles and skirmishes, and was three times taken prisoner of war. He was a prisoner in Libby, Pemberton and Andersonville prisons. It is very readable book and ought to have a large sale, especially among his old comrades of the Reserves.
Mr. Urban, the author, lives at Conestoga Centre, this county, and communication relating to the work should be addressed to him there.

The Columbia Spy
May 20, 1882
WILL RUN DOUBLE TIME - We understand that the Safe Harbor rolling mill will commence running double time next week - day and night. Here is a chance for idle puddlers and other rolling mill men. The Safe Harbor iron company intend, within the next three weeks, to make a puddled iron out of their mill cinder- something which has never before been attempted at any rolling mill in the State. The machinery is now being put into the mill for this purpose, under the direct supervision of the inventor of the process.
The Columbia Spy
June 17, 1882
A BOY DROWNED-A boy named John W. Miller, of Rockhill, was drowned in the Conestoga on Monday. He with two of his companions, each about 13 years old, went into the creek to swim. The Miller boy could not swim, and his companions warned him not to come into the water. But he paid no attention to their warnings. At the point where he entered the water was very shallow, but after walking about for some time he stepped off a sandbank and got into about eight feet of water. He struggled about for a few moments but soon sank out of sight. The creek was dredged for the body, which was recovered about three-quarters of an hour after the accident and although every effort was made to resuscitate him by Dr. Reader, life was extinct.

The Columbia Spy
July 29, 1882
FINGERS CUT OFF. - One day last week, Frederick Miller, an employee of the Phoenix Iron Works, at Safe Harbor, met with a painful accident. Some men were engaged in hoisting an iron ball weighing 2,240 pounds, when some of the tackling broke, and the heavy mass of iron fell, striking Miller on the hand crushing the thumb and two adjoining fingers. The thumb and fingers were amputated by Dr. J. C. Gatchell.

Lancaster New Era
Sept. 22, 1882
Conestoga Items
The Annual Festival of the Geo. Reynolds Band-Its History-School Notes
On Last Saturday afternoon and evening the General Reynolds Band held their annual festival in Jno. M. Warfel's grove, Conestoga Centre, and it turned out quite a success. The amount of ice cream and confections sold gave the band a newt gain of $50. The festival had in attendance four bands, which greatly enlivened it with constant music. The Reynolds Band furnished the music until evening, when the Eden Band made their appearance, closely followed by the Martic Cornet Band and the General Garfield Band. This is a colored organization and considering their age (nine months) they acquitted themselves very well indeed. Among the article chanced off was a silver butter dish, furnished by Rhoads & Brother. It was carried far from home by a member of the Elizabethtown Band.
The Reynolds Band
This band was organized in 1879. Though Conestoga one year previous had an old band of the same name, it dissolved, many of its members joining the new organization. It numbers eighteen in pieces and No. 1 in its financial condition; in its equipage the same. In three years time it gained itself a new wagon, new uniforms and two sets of instruments. On wonder one of your local contemporaries paid that glowing tribute to Ironville, which she ably deserves, and did not forget to say that "the General Reynolds Cornet Band pipers her little tunes through bran (d) new silver horns." So she does, and of Whirlitzer's Cincinnati make.
School Notes
The schools of Conestoga opened on September 11 with some exceptions. The teacher of West Centre primary was sick and begun only this week; the Locust Grove school house was delayed in its building by the mechanics and is not yet ready for use; this school is to be taught by H. H. Rhinier; the grades school, to be taught by P. C. Hiller, was not opened until Monday last.
B. S. McLane, one of Conestoga's old teachers, is not teaching this session. We miss him in school and at District Institute.
Lem in the Watermelon Business.
The directors of our township had a compliment paid them in the shape of two monstrous watermelons, by the hand of Mr. Lem Eaby, of Lancaster city. The teachers' moutbs are watering for a slice.

The Columbia Spy
November 20, 1882
Items about Town and Country
Christian Eaby, of Conestoga Centre, picked several quarts of strawberries from this vines, on Saturday. This is also from the Lancaster Inquirer.

The Columbia Spy
Dec. 2, 1882
Fatal Accidents
TERRENCE MCGURK KILLED ON THE RAILROAD WHILE INTOXICATED - On Saturday evening, about six o�clock, Therence McGurk, employed at the Safe Harbor rolling mills, was run over by engine No. 538 on the siding of the Columbia and Port Deposit railroad, leading to the mills at Safe Harbor, and almost instantly killed. Witnesses testified at the coroner�s inquest that they had seen McGurk near the railroad very much under the influence of liquor, shortly before six o�clock. The testimony of the trainmen was that while the engine was running in on the siding at the rate of seven or eight miles an hour, they saw some object lying on the track and tried to stop but could not. When the engine was stopped they went back a few feet and found the body of McGurk badly cut up. He was still breathing but died in a few minutes. The verdict of the jury was in accordance with these facts.

HOG AND ALL SURPRISED - We have all read about "surprises" till we grow tired, but our interval has been renewed in them since we heard of a most novel one in Conestoga Centre, which occurred some time last week. It appears that a merchant of that place has a favorite pig, and to cap the climax has christened the hog Darby. A large number of friends knowing this, one evening last week, shouldering bags of leaves and corn, wended their way to the favored home of this pet hog and surprised, if not it, the owner with the novel surprise and donation party. Of course, they all had a good time-hog and all. - New Era.

The Columbia Spy
Dec. 30, 1882
Married
On the evening of December 25th, 1882, at the residence of Mr. Benjamin Thomas, Columbia, by the Rev. Richard C. Searing, Rector of St. Paul�s Episcopal church, Mr. Thomas J. Harris and Mrs. Margaret Griffiths, both of Safe Harbor.

The Columbia Spy
January 13, 1883
Married
On the 4d inst., by the Rev. J. C. Smith, Mr. Lafayette Heimes of Safe Harbor, Lancaster county, to Miss Deliah H. Hess, of Colemansville, Lancaster county.

Lancaster New Era
January 24, 1883
A Fatal Dose of Poison
Mrs. Bortzfield's Suspicious Death
Drs. Mowery and Clinger Give their Testimony Before the Coroner and District Attorney-Evidence of the Presence of Poison
At eleven o'clock this morning a hearing of further testimony in the Conestoga township poisoning case was had in the lower court room. The Coroner and District Attorney were present to hear the witnesses. Deputy Coroner B. F. Hookey, of Conestoga Centre, was also there. The first witness called was Dr. J. L. Mowery. His testimony was as follows:
Adam Bortzfield's hired man came to me on Friday evening and told me what he knew about Mrs. B.'s ailments. She was complaining of pain in the head, but in the man's opinion it was not headache; knowing her to be of a nervous temperament I gave the man three or four powders of morphia, each containing about one-eighth of a grain; the following day (Saturday), about two o'clock in the afternoon, Adam Bortzfield, the husband, came himself; he left at three; he asked me what his hired man had said; I told him and he replied, "He's a hell of a fellow to send to the doctor, not to know more than that,: He then related to me the symptoms of his wife's ailment-sore throat, loss of appetite, aching pains through the limbs and a numbness in the arms extending to the finger tips; he told me she was constipated, in answer to my question, and I prescribed and gave him six grains of calomel, continuing with it 10 grains of aloes or rhubarb - this with the intention of physicking her. I further gave him for her 2 drachms of chlorate of potash in water for a gargle; also, a tonic, four once bottle of quinine and iron to follow the physic; on Sunday morning, between 8 and 9 o'clock, I was again called: I got to Mr. B's about 10 o'clock; I found her vomiting and retching and looseness of her bowels, which I attributed to the physic; to the question whether she was in pain she answered in the negative, but said she was sick on the stomach; I then prescribed tincture of catechu with compound spirits of lavender, equal parts of each, to be taken in does of a teaspoonful each; this was done to correct the bowels; I ascribed her vomit to biliousness, fr4om which she suffered a good deal; the vomit resembled a bilious vomit; with occasionally a mouthful darker in color; I thought the best would be to control the vomit; on Sunday night at two o'clock or rather Monday morning, a messenger was sent asking me to send something to stop the vomiting, which had continued. I then sent a small bottle of compound spirits of lavender, containing sub-nitrate of bismuth, each teaspoonful containing five grains of the sub-nitrate of bismuth; on Monday morning I called as early as I could and found her still in a wretched condition; I got her quieted enough to tell me that she was not sick on the stomach; I remained till near twelve o'clock, intending to call again late the same evening; as I left the husband went with me; he asked me what I though ailed his wife; I told him that in my opinion I could not think that it was anything else than a nervous bilious attack, but yet it seemed to me peculiar; he told me that early in the morning his wife had told him she thought she was going to die; I told him that, in my opinion, she felt very sick, and this led her to make the remark; in the evening I learned she had died; the husband told me on Sunday morning, after taking the first does of tonic, she began vomiting continuing during the evening, Saturday, but growing better during the night; she had given her another dose on Sunday morning; I thought it peculiar that the tonic should cause vomiting; I have since learned that she began vomiting after drinking water, and that it continued all night; on Tuesday morning I heard rumors of the woman having been poisoned and though there was some ground for it, since some of the symptoms were closer allied to poison symptoms that to any other I know. The Doctor then went on to briefly describe the analysis of the stomach made by him and Dr. P. S. Clinger, under Deputy Coroner Hookey's directions.
Dr. Clinger testified that he and Dr. Mowery had removed the stomach and found the base of it much discolored, corroded, infiltrated and much congested; took the stomach home with me and the following day I made the analysis. In opening the stomach we discovered with our lenses small particles of some white substances like arsenic, strewn thickly over the lining of the stomach; we took a portion of the mucous coat, about one half the size of a pea, and applied tests and discovered arsenic there; the test was with ammonia sulphate of copper; boiling a part of the stomach, we applied the same test, throwing down a green sediment; we made the same test with ammonia nitrate of silver, and a pale yellow sediment was precipitated. This is as far as they went, but they are both satisfied that the substance found is arsenic and that in a very large quantity.
Nothing else new was developed. The matter will be held under advisement by the District Attorney and Messrs. Reynolds and J. Hay Brown, associated with him.

The Columbia Spy
February 3, 1883
STOPPING A ROLLING MILL - On Thursday night the Phoenix Iron Works at Safe Harbor suspended operations for an indefinite period.
The two hundred and seventy-five employees of the Works will be given work at the Phoenixville works of Mr. Reeves, if they desire it. It is said, however, that very few of the men will go there to work. The Phoenix works is owned by Mr. Reeves, of Phoenixville, and the mill there which has been idle for several months will soon resume work. As the firm do not car to run both mills, the one at Safe Harbor has been abandoned.
This is very serious loss to the people of Safe Harbor. We hope it will not last long.

The Columbia Spy
February 10, 1883
CLOSED - As stated in the last issue of the SPY, the Safe Harbor rolling mill was closed last week. On Tuesday all the employees, especially the skill labor, who were willing to go, were transferred to Phoenixville, to work in the Reeves & Co. rolling mill there. It is not known what disposition will be made of the Safe Harbor rolling mill, but it may not again be operated for a long time.

The Columbia Spy
May 5, 1883
DROWNED- A son of Lemuel Kline, of York county, aged 16 years, was drowned near Safe Harbor on Saturday, by the accidental capsizing of a boat. The party had come to this side to make some purchases, among them being two kegs of nails. The shifting of the nails is what caused the boat to capsize.

New Era,
November 22, 1883
DIED
LAURENCE November 20th, 1883, in Conestoga Centre, John A., son of Henry and Henrietta Laurence, in the 22d year of his age.
The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend his funeral, from the parents residence, on Friday morning at 8 o�clock. High mass at St. Anthony�s church at 10:30. Interment at St. Mary�s Cemetery.

The Columbia Spy
October 20, 1883
A CHILD DIES FROM HYDROPHOBIA - A five year-old child of John Well, residing near Safe Harbor, died on Monday morning from hydrophobia. The little fellow was bitten by a dog in the left check and shoulder on September 29th. The wounds were cauterized, and the boy appeared to be doing well. On last Friday he refused to drink water. On "Saturday he was unable to eat anything. On Sunday morning he was seized with convulsions, which continued at intervals until death released him from his sufferings. He frothed at the mouth during the paroxysms, made sounds similar to the barking of a dog, snapped at and tried to bite all who came near him. So afraid were the residents of the vicinity of contracting the disease, that the body was not prepared for burial for several hours after death.

Lancaster Inquirer
February 9,1884
An Oil Overflow in Conestoga
The oil pipes which run through the farm of Andrew Good, near Conestoga Centre, sprung a leak the other day, and about thirty barrels of oil spread over one of Mr. Good's most valuable fields. He has instituted a suit for damages.

The Columbia Spy
April 26, 1884
CHANGE OF BASE - Dr. J. C. Gatchell has removed from Safe Harbor to Millersville, where he will ignore politics and devote himself to the practice of medicine.

The Columbia Spy
May 17, 1884
HAD HIS FOOT CRUSHED - A young man named Brooks, had his foot badly crushed, by being caught between the "dead wood" of the cars, on Wednesday. The accident happened on the Frederick Division, at Safe Harbor. The young man was brought to Columbia, his injuries attended to, and then sent to his home in York.

Lancaster New Era
Monday, July 28, 1884
Death of Doctress Sweeney
Mrs. Sweeney, well known in this community as a colored woman who practiced medicine for many years, died at her home at Conestoga, on Sunday morning, an announcement of the sorrowful fact was made in the Bethel A.M.E. church, Strawberry street, on Sunday. The funeral will take place on tomorrow (Tuesday) morning, from the late residence of the deceased, Conestoga.

The Columbia Spy
August 2, 1884
BOY DROWNED IN MILL DAM - On last Friday the children of Martin Oberholtzer went boating on a mill dam a short distance from Safe Harbor. One of them, a six year old son, was missed by the others, who ran and told their parents. Upon their return home the water of the dam was drawn off and the dead body of the child was found.

The Columbia Spy
August 9, 1884
The Great Rain Storm
Miraculous Escapes at Conestoga.
A one and a-half story brick dwelling, belonging to Benjamin Warfel, at Conestoga Centre, and occupied by John Priest, was struck by lightning, demolishing the chimney, knocking the front wall three inches out of place, breaking nearly all the windows, knocking the plastering from all the rooms but two, splintering the door frames, and passing along the spouting, entering a cistern and demolishing the cistern wall. Mr. Priest sat near the open door, and a young son leaned his head against the wall. The plaster was knocked off, but the boy remained unhurt. Splinters from the door-frame were scattered all over Mr. Priest, but he was not stunned or even shocked, and a bare-footed child further back from the door had its feet scorched, but was otherwise uninjured.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 27, 1884
Here and There
That was probably the first canal dug in Lancaster county, although a Conestoga navigation company was chartered several years previously. Gordon's Gazetteer states that the Conestoga Lock and Dam Navigation Company was chartered in 1806, and the Conestoga Navigation Company in 1825; and Appleton's Cyclopedia says that "in 1826 the Conestoga river was made navigable by dams and locks from Lancaster to Safe Harbor, on the Susquehanna river, a distance of nineteen miles." Nineteen miles via the Conestoga, from this city to Safe Harbor ? Nothing shows better how dreadfully crooked our crooked creek is than this and the fact that as the crow flies, Safe Harbor is not farther away then nine miles. Nine dams or locks were built so this improvement, but no canals were dug, as the navigation consisted of slack-water entirely. - Lancaster Inquirer

New Era
November 3, 1884
Conestoga Centre
The Republican parade at Conestoga Centre was an entire success, both as regards numbers and appearance of the men participating. The Conestoga Blain and Logan Club and the Conestoga Band were the main features of the parade. A large mass meeting followed the walk around at which addresses were made by Major A. C. Reinoehl, William d. Weaver and E. K. Martin. The meeting having been called to order by A. J. Zercher, the following officers were elected:
President; Jacob Bitts
Vice Presidents: h. H. Miller, H. H. Kurtz, S. Rohrer, Daniel Rineer, John M. Warfel, Eli J. Kendig, Jacob Harnish, Martin Kendig, Casper Hiller, Wm. A. Haskell, Wm. J. Rutter, Dr. I. M. Witmer, Dr. P.S. Clinger, Fred Shoff, Henry Eshleman, Christ Warfel, Samuel Crossen, Benj. Gartner, Andrew Good, J. J. Urban, B. F. Hookey, Theodore F. Patterson, Geo. A Tripple, Abram Qamany, Jacob Wanner.
Secretaries: A. G. Hudson, Samuel L. Fehl, David H. Miller, H. H. Rhineer, P. C. Hiller, J. Wesley Gardner, Henry Black, Joseph G. Rancon, Simon Hart, Val Kneisley, S. B. Good, John McAlister.

New Era
November 28, 1884
MARRIED
HERR-WALTER November 27th, 1884, at the residence of the bride by P. C. Hiller, Justice of the Peace, John K. Herr, of Marticville, Lancaster county, Pa., and Ida K. Walter, of Conestoga, Lancaster county, Pa.
New Era
December 6, 1884
MARRIED
HENRY-KENDIG December 4th , 1884 at Millersville, by Rev. A. R. Shenkle, Kilmore E. Henry of Conestoga, to Miss Christie Kendig, of Safe Harbor.
John Griffen was once Superinetndent of the Safe Harbor Iron Works and developer of the "Griffen Gun", a cast iron cannon used by the North in the Civil War.
The Columbia Spy
January 19, 1885
DEATH OF A WELL KNOWN MAN
Inventor of the Ordinance Union Gun
John Griffen, formerly of Safe harbor Iron works, this county, who died in Phoenixville at 3 o�clock yesterday morning aged 72, was a native of West Chester county, N.Y. He began his career in mercantile pursuit, but early in life became interested in the iron business of this state; the mills of Moore and Hooven, Norristown, were built under his direction, and while thus engaged he conceived and successfully applied a novel method of using the waste heat and puddling furnaces for generating the steam necessary to run the engines. The works of Reeves, Abbott & Co., at Safe Harbor, this county were also constructed by him, which afforded him additional opportunity for the display of his remarkable executive abilities. Until 1856 he remained in the employ of his company in the capacity fo superintendent, during which time he introduced the governor for controlling the speed of steam engines used in rolling iron. Although numerous contrivances connected with the manufacture of iron proceeded from his fruitful brain, his invention for making wrought iron cannon was sufficient to place his name high upon the roll of American inventors. After repeated experiments by the government to test the strength of this ordinance, it was accepted as one of great value, and many hundreds of these guns were made by the Phoenix Iron company, and, known as the "Griffen Gun" were used during the Rebellion. The famous Democratic cannon "Old Buck", which exploded with fatal results in Lancaster in 1882 after long service was presented to the Wheatland association by Griffin.
Mr. Griffen in 1857 was elected burgess of Phoenixville, subsequently a member of the school board, when it was through his exertions that the free school building was erected. He was one of the directors of the Phoenix Iron company, and was also a member fo the firm of Clark, Reeves & Co., the celebrated bridge builders. He was a good draughtsman and designed many of the finest residences in and about Phoenixville.
He went to Phoenixville from Safe Harbor to 1856 to take charge of the iron works there, and remained until 1862. His next invention was for rolling the large wrought iron beams used in buildings on the small rollers then in use, for which he obtained a patent in 1857, and which is now in successful operation. For years he rolled the largest beams rolled in the world. In 1862 he engaged to erect the Buffalo Union iron works for a firm engaged to the general iron manufacture and in making iron beams. In 1867 he accepted the position of civil and mechanical engineer with the Phoenixville Iron company and eighteen months later he was again placed in charge of the works at Phoenix as general superintendent, which position he held until he died. In 1873-4 he erected the new and large works for the company which are now in full operation. They are the first mills in the world in which compressed high and low pressure vertical engines were introduced as the motive power of roll beams. The general plan of the mill building and machinery was his own arrangement. He was married in 1837 to Esther, daughter of Reuben Liggett of New York, by whom he had five children, of whom only one survives. His wife died in 1849; two years later he married her sister, by whom he had five children, four of whom are living in Phoenixville.

The Columbia Spy
May 9, 1885
Bishop Howe has designated Rev. Francis J. Clay-Moran, B. D., rector of St. Paul�s P.E. church, to take charge of the Safe Harbor mission.

Inquirer
September 5, 1885
DEATH OF JOSEPH R. URBAN
Joseph R. Urban died at his residence in Conestoga Centre on Thursday morning, in the 80th year of his age. he was a native of Conestoga township. He was for a great many years a school teacher. He took an active part in politics and other county affairs, and was a life long member of the M.E. church. His sons, Amos S. and Dr. B. F. W. Urban, of this city; John W., of Conestoga; Rev. A. M., of Philadelphia; Joseph R., of Harrisburg, and Abner C., of Ohio, are all prominent and respected citizens. Mr. Urban�s wife, who is over 80 years old, survives him.
The funeral will take place on Sunday afternoon at one o�clock.

The Columbia Spy
September 12, 1885
Odds and Ends
On Monday, Elias Funk, a sergeant of Company D., 1st Penna Reserves, died at Safe Harbor. Deceased was about forty five years of age and leaves a wife and several children. While firing off a salute at Safe Harbor, in celebrating the election of Garfield, the cannon burst and Mr. Funk lost a leg by the explosion.

The Columbia Spy
Sept. 19, 1885
New Postmasters
Conestoga - John Fralich

Examiner & Express
January 6, 1886
DIED
SNAVLEY, December 28, 1886, in Conestoga Centre, Peter Snavley in the 76th year of his age.

The Columbia Spy
April 3, 1886
Religious Items
The Right Rev. N. S. Rulison, assistant bishop of the diocese of central Pennsylvania, will preach in St. Paul�s P. E. church Sunday morning, April 4th, at 10:30 o�clock. At 7:30 p.m., Rev. C. F. Knight, D. D., of St. James P.E. church, Lancaster, will conduct the services. In the evening Bishop Rulison and Rev. F. J. Clay-Moran will visit the Mission of Ascension, at Safe Harbor.

The Daily New Era
Monday, May 31, 1886
CONESTOGA CENTRE: The Republican League, 34 men, formed in front of their regular place of meeting, and headed by the General Reynolds Cornet Band, marched to the M.E. Church and decorated the graves of the soldiers interred there, after which they were joined by the officers, teachers and pupils of the different Sunday-schools, led by Superintendent B. F. Hookey, of the M.E. Sunday-school. The procession marched to the African M. E. Cemetery, from there to Mt. Zion and then back to the German Reformed. After planting flowers on all the soldiers graves, the crowd was dismissed. In the evening at the Reformed church, the people were addressed by Rev. Coxson of the M.E. church, Mr. H.H. Kurtz and Rev. Wroman of the Evangelican church.

Weekly Examiner
December 22, 1886
CONESTOGA ITEMS
Invented a Chopping Machine - Another Fish Pond - Personal - A Dutch Letter
Christmas is near at hand and many are anxiously waiting for the day to come.
While Mrs. Benjamin Kneisley, aged 75 years, was helping her son to butcher, she fell down stairs, fractured a bone and was hurt internally. Dr. P. S. Clinger attended to her injuries.
William McMullen and his son Frederick, will spend the holidays in Philadelphia, visiting a son employed in Wanamaker�s establishment.
The Reformed Sunday school will hold an entertainment on Christmas evening.
Mr. Isaac Shenk, the baker, has given us another evidence of his ingenuity, which ranks him as a machinist, rather than a baker. He has just completed a choppering machine, which for speed and good work cannot be equaled. It is noiseless, does its work perfectly, and Mr. Shenk certainly deserves great credit for his wonderful apiness in the use of tools and for his mechanical ability.
Mr. Andrew Good has constructed another fish pond in addition to the large one he already has. Mr. Good takes great interest in his fish, although he experiences considerable trouble in caring for them. Fish have many enemies, and these cause great trouble and vexation. First came the night herons, then the snakes, now his pond has become infested with muskrats, which work their way in and play havoc among the finny inhabitants. He has altogether caught ten muskrats in one pond. Thus he must ever be on the watch.
Usera Dentsche Brief
Es wetter, feer de letste pore wocha, g�meint uns dos de hoondstaga ferbei sin, und does der winter hier ish im airnsht. See sawga dos "alle hoont hut sein tab;" und now hen de duwock sthrippers eera tage. Des ish de tzit dos se der duwock ready mocha feer der markt. Der dnwock ish orrick gute in dieser nochbershaft, und de baura froyta sich aufeine guta price. Now ish de mettzlesoup tzeit witter heir, und de fette sei und uxa missa ess nemma in allle ecke. Yets kenna meer ous em feuster goocka mit eine g�shmutzich moul. Es Christ kindly ish now wittor by uns, und der Christtag ish nock om hond. De arme goblers sin aw im droasht, dos se cera kep ferleera. De sthore keepers sin now alle busy und alle leit hen now a seese moul bis noch Ney Yohr.
1886 ish noch ferbel
1887 ish noch hier.

The New Era
December 30,1886
ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD
Lancaster County�s Centenarian
Mrs. Barbara McAllister, of Conestoga Centre, Celebrates Her One Hundredth Birthday To-day in Good Health and Excellent Spirits.

Few mortals are granted the privilege of attaining the patriarchal age reached by Mrs. Barbara McAllister, who to-day, at his residence of her son, Mr. Amos McAllister, in Conestoga Centre, celebrates the one hundredth anniversary of her birth. In the nearly full possession of all her faculties, surrounded by the evidence of a well-spent Christian life, she presents a striking example to the present age, in which life�s burden so often grows weary to many when yet young in years.
Mrs. McAllister, who was the daughter of Peter and Barbara Snavely, was born near Cornwall, in Lebanon county, on the farm on which Bismarck now stands, on December 30, 1786. She was the descendant of a long-lived race, her father having died at the age of 72 and her mother at 82. She was one of ele3ven children - six sons and five daughters - two of whom died in comparative youth, but the rest lived between eighty and ninety years, one brother dying at ninety-one. At the age of twenty-three Miss Snavely was married to Jacob McAllister, of this county, and settled in Pequea township, where she has continued to live ever since. Her husband died thirty years ago. They had three children, two of whom, Mrs. Amos McAllister and Mrs. Mary Snavely, are still living, Mr. Amos McAllister has six children living - Jacob, Isaac, Amos and John and Mrs. Oberholtzer and Miss Sue McAllister- and Mrs. Snavely two living - Mrs. Amos Hess, of Pequea, and Mrs. Aldus W. Warfel, of Allentown. Four grandchildren are dead. There are fifteen great grandchildren living and three dead, and two great-great grandchildren.
The heir to a sturdy constitution, Mrs. McAllister has been almost a total stranger to sickness, the only ill-ness of which she has any recollection having occurred about eighteen years ago. Five years ago, however by a misstep, she fractured a bone in her leg and in consequence of her great age it never properly healed, compelling her to keep to her bed. As can be imagined, this was a severe affliction to a person used to the active life which she had always pursued, and her inability to help herself constitutes her sole cause for worriment, as she imagines that he is too much of a charge upon her kind attendants. her confinement has in no way affected her general hearth, however, and her appearance is unusually robust. She takes three meals a day with great relish and more regularity than most to the other members of the family and masticates her food with her original teeth. She can readily read with the aid of spectacles, but on account of a predisposition to soreness of the eyelids her friends do not encourage her in it.
When a representative of The New Era was introduced to her on Wednesday she greeted him with a strong, cheerful voice and a smile, saying that she thought she had seen him before, in which, however, she was mistaken. She delights to converse with callers, particularly those with whom she has an acquaintance. Her recollection of faces is remarkable. As an illustration, a man who worked on her son�s farm about ten years since called upon her some time back, and she immediately recognized him, conversing at length about the old place. Like many persons who attain to great age, her memory is much brighter concerning things that happened many years ago than those of more recent occurrence. She often related the minutest particulars of events which happened when she was quite young, and she recently entertained her friends with an account of her trip on foot from her home in Lebanon county to a camp meeting that was held at Boehm�s church, the journey having been made when she was a young girl. Mr. John McAllister, one of her grandchildren, last summer paid a visit to his grandmother�s girlhood home in Lebanon county and on his return the aged lady inquired eagerly about the present appearance of the place, particularly instancing some shell bark trees under which she had gathered nuts in her early youth. One of them is still standing, a fact which gave her great pleasure.
Mrs. McAllister has always been a women of deep piety. When eighteen years of age she was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal church. She worshipped at Boehm�s chapel until the membership became so small that the church was closed, when she joined the Evangelical church, with which she is still connected. She delights to tell of the prominent preachers whom she has heard at Boehm�s, among the number being the lamented Bishop Asbury.
It was the intention of Mr. McAllister to have a fitting celebration of his mother�s centennial by the numerous relatives of the family, but as the old lady is greatly annoyed by any unusual commotion and is just recovering from a severe cold, it was thought better to omit it. Friends are always welcome to call upon her, however, and by noon will they be received more cordially than by the aged lady herself.

Lancaster Weekly Examiner
January 5, 1887
MARRIED
BRUBAKER-HESS, Dec. 23, Alonzo Brubaker, of Martic twp., and Sadie Hess of Colemanville.
The Columbia Spy
June 4, 1887
A Double Funeral
On Sunday a double funeral took place from the church in Conestoga Centre, when two mothers were buried. Their names were Mrs. Frank Henry and Mrs. Lydia Eckman. they had been neighbors, and died within a few moments of each other. The former was 33 years of age. She was a daughter of the late George Aument, and leaves a husband and five small children, the oldest being but eleven years of age, and the youngest eleven months. Mrs. Eckman was 65 years of age, and leaves a husband and a family of children, The funeral was very largely attended, and it is said that there were over 2,000 persons present. Tears came to the eyes of many persons at witnessing the affecting scene of Mrs. Henry's five little children gathered around their mother, and crying as though their hearts would break.

The Columbia Spy
June 11, 1887
Rev. A.H. Kauffman was again in the matrimonial business. This time he united Mr. George W. Warfel and Miss Blanche Kiley as man and wife. Both parties reside at Safe Harbor. The wedding took place at the residence of the officiating clergyman, on the 2nd inst.

The Columbia Spy
August 6, 1887
Mrs. A. R. Witmer, of Safe Harbor, died of heart disease, while visiting friends in Manheim township.
During the burning of the barn of Elias Reist, near Petersburg, this county, on Sunday, Mrs. Abm. Witmer fell down dead. He lived in Safe Harbor, and was visiting relatives in that vicinity.

The Columbia Spy
September 03, 1887
The Name "Stogie"
From the McKeesport (Pa.) Times
The "stogie" is derived from the old Conestoga wagons, which used to be so numerous on the old national pikes. The drivers of these wagons were in the habit of buying cheap, strong cigars, and being heavy smokers kept asking for a cheaper cigar than was then made. Over at Washington, Pa., a cigarmaker, in answer to this demand for cheaper cigars, evolved a long, slender roll of tobacco which he offered to the drivers at the rate of four for a cent. The new cigar became popular among the mail drivers and freighters, and was called the Conestoga cigar, abbreviated afterwards to "stoga" and later to "stogie."

The Columbia Spy
November 19, 1887
Married
October 29, 1887, at the residence of the bride's parents. By Rev. F. M. Brady, Joseph A. Miller, of Columbia, to Miss Florence E. Dellinger, of Conestoga Centre, Lancaster Co., Pa.

The Columbia Spy
Dec. 24, 1887
The Great Reaper
Benjamin McCabe, a resident of south Chester, went to Safe Harbor on Wednesday evening in search of work. He fell through the C.&P.D.R.R. bridge over the Conestoga, and was so badly injured that he died before morning, when his body was found. A wife and five children survive him.

The Columbia Spy
December 31, 1887
CHRISTMAS AT SAFE HARBOR
The great Christmas event at Safe Harbor was the service of song by the Sunday-schoolchildren of the church of the Ascension. This school is under the superintendency of Mr. Theo. F. Patterson, of the Safe Harbor iron works. It numbers about seventy-five children, is well officered and gives promise of much good work.
The service attracted a very large audience. Every part of chapel was crowded, and scores of people who could not get in were turned away. The service delightful, and the singing excellent. The children had been trained by Mrs. Patterson. Rev. F. J. Clay Moran, of Columbia was present, and he and Mr. Patterson made brief addresses. Each child in the choir was presented with some simple gift, appropriate to the occasion.

The Columbia Spy
January 7, 1888
Obituary
Henry Sourbeer, an old citizen of Columbia, the father of Mr. Uriah Sourbeer, died on last Friday morning at his home on North Seventh street, of apoplexy. Mr. Sourbeer was born near Safe Harbor in 1804, and removed to Columbia when he was about 23 years of age. He was one of the oldest and best known river pilots having followed that business since 1823. A wife and five children survive him. Mr. Joseph Tyson is now the oldest river pilot living in Columbia.

The Columbia Spy
March 17, 1888
A Safe Harbor Man Frozen to Death
David Lewis, a puddler, who has been employed at the Safe Harbor iron works for several years, met with a terrible death, from the effects of the cold, on Tuesday. In the morning Lewis was found lying on the porch of the village store. He was unconscious when found and remained in that condition to the time of his death, which took place at 1 o�clock in the afternoon. It is likely that Lewis may have been drinking during Monday evening and that he laid down on the store porch to take a nap.

The Columbia Spy
April 20, 1888
Industrial Items
The Safe Harbor rolling mill has resumed operations, and will continue as long as orders last.

Green Hill is in Conestoga Twp. but part of the Manor Charge. This is now the Green Hill United Methodist Church
The Columbia Spy
June 9, 1888
Church Dedication
Green Hill U. B. church, of Manor charge, near Safe Harbor, will be dedicated to the worship of God, next Sabbath, June 19th, by Bishop E. B. Kephart, D. D., of Toledo, Iowa, assisted by Rev. H. B. Doner, P. E., and Rev. G. W. M. Rigor. The order of services will be as follows: Preaching, Saturday evening, at 7:30 p.m.; old-fashioned love feast, Sunday morning, at 9 a. m.; preaching at 10:30 am, by the Bishop; preaching in the evening at 7:30 p.m., by the Bishop.
A general invitation is extended in adjoining pastors and people to be present. Come one, come all. J. FRANCIS SMITH, Pastor.
Inquirer
June 14, 1888
Obituary
Adam Lefever, a well known farmer, of Conestoga township, residing near Slackwater, died on Friday, July 6th of heart disease, aged 74 years. Mr. Lefever was a most estimable and widely known citizen and was greatly esteemed by this acquaintances. He was a good farmer, and an honest and sincere man in whatever h undertook. He was an ardent Republican and had been a devoted Whig, casting his first vote for Harrison for President in 1836, and afterward in 1840. He was for many years a subscriber to The Inquirer , always testifying his appreciation of it and manifesting his solid business qualities by paying for it in advance, a duty he never forgot or neglected. He was a kind hearted, thoroughly honest man, and his sudden death will be deeply regretted by a wife circle of friends and acquaintances. The burial took place on Sunday last at the Mennonite church in New Danville.

The Columbia Spy
June 16, 1888
Industrial Items
Wages at the Safe Harbor rolling mill have been reduced to $3.25 per ton.

The Columbia Spy
June 23, 1888
Industrial Items
There was no strike at the Safe Harbor Rolling Mill on Monday, as was feared on account of the reduction of wages to $3.25 per ton.

The Columbia Spy
July 7, 1888
ITEMS ABOUT TOWN AND COUNTRY
Safe Harbor puddlers accepted a reduction to $3.25 per ton without a strike, Sensible men !

The Inquirer
July 21, 1888
THE PIPES WILL BURST SOMETIMES
Conestoga Centre, July 19, - (Special) A few days ago, near this village, the pipes of the Standard Oil Company sprung a leak on the property of the property of Jno. W. Urban, the heaviest that has occurred in this vicinity, as barrel after barrel was dipped out of the hole. The oil ran fully one fourth of a mile.
The General Reynolds cornet band will hold a festival on the East Centre school grounds on Saturday evening of this week.
Children's Day was observed by the Evangelical Sunday-school on last Sabbath evening. The large congregation was present. The program was very interesting. Mr. J. R. Yentzer was the organist.
Our Republican club turned out in very full numbers for the parade on Saturday, and the uniforms they wore look well. All were arrayed in dark clothes with white plug hats and white ties and carried bamboo canes.
The rolling mill at Safe Harbor is running on full time and has about 300 men at work. The people there expect to see their new railroad begun before winter.
The paper mill at Slackwater, in this township is nearly ready for business again. A high grade of fertilizers will also be manufactured there.
DEATH IN MANOR TOWNSHIP
In Millersville on Sunday evening, the widow of the late Daniel Kendig died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Wissler, Mrs. Kendig was 89 years of age. Her husband, known as Squire, died at Safe Harbor forty years ago. Dr. Benj. S. Kendig at Salunga is her only son. Rev. J. W. Goodlin, of Bethany Lutheran church, preached the funeral sermon in Zion�s Evangelical church this morning, and the interment took place at Conestoga Centre.

The Inquirer
August 11, 1888
DEATHS
BRENISER, August 7,1888, at his residence at Rock Hill, this county, Jacob Breniser, about 60 years of age.

The Columbia Spy
September 8, 1888
Don't use a Pin
A host of friends will regret to hear of the death of Henry M. Stehman, a popular and well-known young farmer, who lived near Slackwater, in Conestoga township. Mr. Stehman died last evening from the effects of blood poisoning, which was produced from a small pimple on one of his hands. he had been ill but a short time. Deceased was the only son of Tobias Stehman, a retired farmer. He leaves a wife and two children. He was about thirty-five years of age, and was an industrious, upright young man.

This is a long account of the death of Mary Aston Dellinger, she is buried at the Methodist Cemetery at Conestoga. To read the entire article click on the link at the end and a full copy fo the article will open in a new window.
The Lancaster Weekly Examiner
Wednesday, October 10, 1888
Was She Murdered ?

The car was propelled forward and the men peered over the bridge through the trees and plainly saw a dark object lying near the water's edge. When the west end of the bridge was reached Ambrose Gans, one of the workmen, jumped from the car and made his way down the steep bank. His companions heard his excited cry when he reached the dark object:
"It's not a man; it's a woman and she's dead!"

How the Body was Found
The whole party at once went to the spot and looked on the ghastly sight which confronted their startled gaze. It was a dead and rigid body, and was that of a young woman, who did not look more than twenty years of age. She lay there with eyes partly open displaying the light gray orbs. The hands were at the sides covered with dirt. The hair was disheveled and lay in a tangled mass on the wet grass. The ends of the tresses contained a number of hairpins and looked as if the hair had been torn with violent hands from the position it had been fixed.

Undoubted Murder
Signs of a Struggle-Buttons Found Which Were Torn From the Coat.
From the open mouth with its purpled lips, froth was oozing and from the nostrils, trickled sand and water. The features were regular, the face round and possessed of considerable beauty. The countenance was stained with dirt, and the long, dark brown hair was filled with sand. The body was stretched at full length on the back, and the feet were about four feet from the cold, shallow water of the Little Conestoga. The bloom had not yet faded from the cheeks, and the features were calm and natural; and from appearance death had been attended with no agony.
The body was found about seventy-five yards from the railroad bridge in the meadow to the south. It was lying near a big, decaying tree trunk, which was fallen may years ago. The land is owned by the Dunn estate, and the farm is tenanted by John Gamber, who lives in a large farm house about a quarter mile from the place where the young woman met her death. it is a lonely spot and is much frequented by tramps. It is the place for a dark deed.
On the discovery of the body a message was sent to Dillerville and Augustus Jeffries, who has charge of the interlocking switches at that point responded. When he arrived where the body was lying he examined the surrounding ground. Fifteen feet east of the body a red silk handkerchief, which had seen much usage, was picked from the damp grass. Near by were three metal buttons, and four others were picked up within a radius of several feet. Concealed in the grass and leaves where it has fallen, near where the handkerchiefs was found, was a small necklet pin, of cheap manufacture, having seven white stones, their brilliancy dulled, set in a gold plated, horse shoe.
The buttons found were made of metal, with a black coating, and with raised leaves and bunch of grapes on each. From the eyelets of some of the buttons still clung a portion of the material from the article of apparel from which they were torn. They had evidently been thrown in the struggle which the victim had with her fiendish assailant. The little shreds of cloth gave positive evidence that's desperate struggle had taken place in the darkness.

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New Era
November 19, 1888
DIED
MILLER - November 18th, 1888, in Conestoga, Martha, wife of Abram B. Miller.
The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral, from her late residence, in Conestoga township, on Wednesday afternoon at 1 o�clock at the house and at 2 o�clock at the Millersville Meeting-house. Interment at Millersville Meeting-house.

The Columbia Spy
November 24, 1888
The manager of the Safe Harbor Rolling Mill voluntarily advanced wages twenty-five cents a ton immediately after the election.

The Columbia Spy
December 1, 1888
Obituary Notice
Mrs. Mary Simmers, an aged widow, died of dropsy, at the residence of her granddaughter, Mrs. George Poff, on Fourth street, near Mill, on Monday. She was in the 77th year of her age. Mrs. Simmers was a native of Lancaster county, having been born near Safe Harbor. She has been a widow for a number of years, and has been a resident of Columbia for the past seven years. She was a member of the Safe Harbor M. E. church, but while living in Columbia attended the U.B. church. One daughter, Mrs. Samuel Warfel, of town, and a large number of grandchildren survive her.

New Era
December 26, 1888
DEATH FROM APOPLEXY
A colored Man Meets with Sudden Death at the House of Friends
On Monday morning Aaron Martin, a colored man residing at Conestoga Centre, but who worked at Steelton, came to Lancaster, intending to go home that afternoon on the stage coach, on which he had secured passage. he went to the house of some friends on Middle street, where he lay down to take a nap. leaving word to be called in time to take the stage. When an attempt was made to awaken him it was discovered that he was dead. Coroner Honaman was notified and an inquest was held, Dr. Bolenius making an examination of the body. The jury consisted of Leven R. Rote, Wm. Gable, William Finefrock, Thaddeus Henry, Philip Schatt and John S. Whitman. Their verdict was that deceased died from apoplexy. The remains were removed to Conestoga Centre for burial. Martin was fifty years of age.

Weekly Examiner
March 6, 1889
Safe Harbor
Pallor Entertainment-Almost Drowned-Notes
A grand pallor entertainment and supper by the Mite Society of Safe Harbor M.E. church, was held at the residence of G. A. Tripple, on Saturday evening. About fifty partook of the supper. It was enjoyed by all. The society realized about $11.
Two rolling mill men, while intoxicated, attempted to swim across the Conestoga Monday afternoon opposite W. W. Tripple's store. They swam about twelve feet, and then gave up the dangerous act. Had they got out into the current they would have been carried down the current, as the Conestoga is a raging stream at present, caused by the late rainfall.
M.N. Davis, teacher of Prospect Hill school, spent Saturday and Sunday with his Safe Harbor friends.
Miss Amanda and Francis Miller, of Millersville, were the guests of Mrs. John J. Tripple during Saturday and Sunday. They were present at the Saturday evening sociable.
The Rev. J. W. Perkinpine preached his farewell sermon to a small audience on Sunday afternoon.
The rolling mill was so much flooded by the late rain that operations were suspended Monday. They will resume work Tuesday night.
Joseph C. Tripple's favorite cat, Cleveland, which has been lost for several weeks has turned up again, just in time to see Cleveland leave the White House
.
The Columbia Spy
April 13, 1889
Another Rolling Mill
The Safe harbor rolling mill was shut down this week, on account of a lack of orders. This mill has been making muck bars, and not finished iron, as frequently stated.

The Columbia Spy
May 25, 1889
Religious Items
St. Paul�s church, Ascension Day, May 30th; Morning service, Holy Communion at 10:30. At the Mission of the Ascension, Safe harbor, evening service at 8 p.m., with address to the Grand Army Post of Safe Harbor. This will commemorate the fourth anniversary of the opening of the Mission.

The Columbia Spy
June 22, 1889
SLEEPING ON THE RAILROAD
Albert Warfel, a Puddler, Loses a Leg
Albert Warfel met with a terrible accident, in which he lost one of his legs, at Safe Harbor on Monday afternoon. Warfel is a son of the late John Warfel, and his mother, who is married again, resides near Safe Harbor. He is a puddler by trade, and for some time has been working at Lochiel. Several days ago he retuned to Safe Harbor, where he intended going to work this week, had this accident not occurred. On Monday afternoon he walked up along the railroad track on the siding which runs from the Columbia & Port Deposit Railroad to the iron works. Having drank pretty freely he lay down along the train and went to sleep, with one leg over one of the rails in a doubled up position. About half-past three o�clock in the afternoon an engine, pushing three cars, came up the track and run over him. Conductor McCloskey of the train, who was near or on the engine, said that he saw an object along the track but thought it was a chicken. When too late he discovered that it was a man. Warfel�s leg was crushed terribly from about the knee to the foot. The injured man was removed to Columbia. Dr. Craig amputated the limb, leaving but three inches of it. Warfel was then taken to Safe Harbor to his mother�s home. He is about 30 years of age, and a widower with two children.

The Columbia Spy
August 10, 1889
FELL THIRTY-FIVE FEET
Two men Walked Off Strickler�s Bridge
On Tuesday morning, between four and five o�clock, two puddlers named John Steel and George Kelley, from Conshohocken, met with a very strange accident and sustained injuries which may prove fatal. The men were on their way to Safe Harbor, to work in the rolling mill in that place, and were industriously plodding their weary way on foot, by the Pennsylvania Railroad. A high bridge spans Strickler�s run, just east of Columbia, and the men being unacquainted with the locality, walked unsuspectingly off the abutment of the bridge. They fell a distance of thirty feet on top of a pile of stone and underbrush. A companion of the men, named Lockery, was a short distance behind the unfortunate pedestrians, and saw them fall. Assistance was obtained form several railroad employees, and the men were taken to the P.R.R. hospital. Dr. Craig attended the injured men. Both men are badly injured internally, and also sustained a number of severe cuts and bruises.
They were taken to the county hospital. Steel, it is believed, cannot survive, while Kelley, who does not appear to have been so badly hurt, will probably recover.
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Kelley is an unmarried man, 20 years of age, while Steele is 35 years old, and has a wife and four children residing at Conshohocken.

Intelligencer
August 26, 1889
AN AGED MAN�S SAD END
John G. Pries Dies from Injuries Inflicted by a Horse on Saturday
John G. Pries, of Conestoga Centre, died on Saturday at midnight, the result of injuries received late that afternoon. Mr. Pries was 81 years old and made his home at Kendig�s hotel. He had been in feeble health for some time and required an attendant to look after him. Between 4 and 5 o�clock the old gentleman slipped away from the hotel, unobserved by the attendant, and went to the stable.
In a few minutes cries for help were heard, and several men ran from the hotel to the stable, and Mr. Pries was found unconscious under the feet of a horse.
The supposition is that he was kicked by the horse, thrown under is that he was kicked by the horse, thrown under his feet and then trampled. Mr. Pries was carried to the hotel and a physician summoned. He found a number of cuts and bruises on Mr. Pries� body, but no bones broken. The injured man lingered until midnight when he died.
He was for several years hotelkeeper but retired a few years ago. He was prominent in that section of the county, was a Democrat in politics and had a large circle of friends who will mourn his sudden death.

The Inquirer
August 31, 1889
Thieves in Conestoga Township
Conestoga. August 29- (Special.) Amos Warfel, of Conestoga Centre, a retired farmer, was visited by burglars several nights ago. The thieves effected an entrance by prying open a window in the summer house. They took a couple of new shirts, two pairs of pants, some sugar and all the bread that was in the house. A flask of whiskey that Mrs. Warfel had for a remembrance of a western trop a few years ago was also taken. Mr. Warfel, next morning, had to wait until a baker came before he could have his breakfast. The same night thieves entered the dwelling house of David Kendig, and took a number of articles. The night before thrives entered farmer A Martin Good's spring house and stole nine lbs of butter and some other articles.
General Reynolds band will hold a festival at the East Centre school house on Saturday evening. Several bands are invited to be present.
Schools will open September 9th in Conestoga.
Benjamin Kneisly, an elderly citizen of Conestoga township, met with a serious accident on Wednesday. He was hauling tobacco in a one-horse wagon when the animal became frightened and ran away, upsetting the wagon and throwing Mr. Kneisley out, injuring him seriously but not dangerously. He was improving at last account. Mr. Kenisley is a minister in the United Brethren Church.

New Era
October 17, 1889
Death of an Aged Colored Man.
Washington Cooper, one of the founders of the Conestoga A.M.E. church, died on Tuesday in this city. The deceased was eighty-three years old on Monday, and had been totally blind for a number of years. He was a member of the church for a period of sixty-two years and was a very pious and genial man. The funeral services will be conducted by Rev. Seth D. W. Smith at the Strawberry street church to-morrow (Friday).
DEATHS
COOPER, October 15th, 1889, in this city. Father Washington Cooper, aged eighty -three years and one day.
The relatives and friends f the family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral from his late residence, No. 415 North Street, on Friday afternoon at 2 o�clock at the house and at 3 o�clock at Strawberry street A.M.E. Church.

Musical Entertainment
The M.E. Sunday-school of Conestoga Centre, intend holding a musical entertainment in the M.E. church on Saturday evening next. There will at the same time, be delivered several addresses by the Rev. T. B. Neeley, D. D., Rev. Wilson and Dr. B. F. W. Urban. The officers intend at the same time to treat all the pupils of the school. All desiring to spend an enjoyable evening will do well to attend. No admission will be charged.

The Columbia Spy
November 30th, 1889
A $10,000 Fire at Safe Harbor
It has been a long time since the village of Safe Harbor was so stirred by excitement as it was early on Tuesday morning, when the grist mill of J. A. Taylor was discovered to be on fire, and as soon as the alarm was given people began flocking to the place. The flames burned fiercely, and soon it was seen that the fine large structure was doomed. In a little wile almost the entire population was on the scene. From the mill the fire spread with great rapidity, and it was not long before Mr. Taylor's saw mill, lumber yard and office was also burning. It was with great difficulty the flames could be kept from spreading to the frame county bridge, over the Conestoga creek at that point.
The grist mill and saw-mill, the office and a large amount of lumber were destroyed by the flames, together with one acre of tobacco.
The mill contained one thousand bushels of corn, one thousand bushels of oats, four tons of flour, twelve tons of middlings, fifteen tons of bran, and one hundred and fifty bushels of corn chop, all of which was destroyed, as well as an acre of tobacco, two hundred dollars worth of lumber, a twenty horse-power engine and boiler and two safes, all the property of Mr. Taylor. The aggregate loss is $10,000, with an insurance of $9,700 in the Penn Mutual. The fire was undoubtedly of incendiary origin.

The Columbia Spy
December 7, 1889
Fire Loss Appraised
J. H. Hershey, president, T. H. Hershey, secretary, and S. O. Frantz, treasurer, of the Penn Township Mutual Fire Insurance Company, went to Safe Harbor, on Tuesday, to adjust the loss sustained by George A. Taylor, by the burning of his mill, lumber yard, &c., a week ago. The damage was fixed at $4700, instead of $9,700, as estimated.

New Era
April 8, 1890
Chiefs Installed at Conestoga Centre
Saturday evening the new chiefs of Kishacaquilla Tribe, No. 65 I.O.R.M. , were installed by past Sachhem Benjamin F. Hookey, assisted by Past Sachems John M. Smith, Henry Eckman and Charles Trissler.
The tribe is in a flourishing condition, owning their own hall, a fine two-story building, and having a membership of fifty-two, nine having been added during the present term of six months and three applicants are awaiting admission. During the term ending March 29th, $214.50 was received in dues and $186.87 paid out for relief benefits. The good condition of the tribe speaks well for the interest its members take in it.

New Era
April 22, 1890
A Small Riot
A Crowd of Safe Harbor Rolling Mill Men Badly Used up at Shenk's Ferry
Shenk's Ferry, on the Susquehanna, was the scene of considerable excitement on Saturday night, when a fight that assumed almost the proportions of a riot occurred at the hotel there. A party of Safe Harbor rolling mill men got into collision with a large party of countrymen and the latter came out of the battle with flying colors. Their champion was a stalwart young man named Abram Conrad, from Union, and he seemed to be the particular object at which the rolling mill men aimed. Two of the latter were so badly used up by the hard-hitting young countryman that they had to be carefully cared for by their friends after the fracas was over.

A short account of Capt. Hess' death is at August 2, 1862
Daily New Era
May 30, 1890
Obituary
Death of the Widow of Captain George H. Hess. Who was Killed in the War of the Rebellion
The many friends of Mrs. Sarah Hess, widow of Captain George H. Hess, will learn with sorrow of her demise. She had been ailing for the past year, suffering with a complication of diseases, and for several months past had been failing rapidly, but her death was nevertheless unexpected. She expired on Thursday at her late residence, No. 523 West Walnut street, in her sixty-third year.
The deceased was the widow of Captain George H. Hess, who kept hotel many years ago at Safe Harbor. Mr. Hess was killed during the war of the Rebellion. He was in command of Company D., First Pennsylvania Reserve, and in the battle of Charles City Cross Roads, in Virginia, June 20, 1862, he was severely wounded. He was removed to the hospital, but that place having been captured he fell into the hands of the enemy, and died of his injuries at Richmond on July 4, 1862. He was 34 years old when he died. Mrs. Hess and six children survive. Mrs. Hess was formerly a resident of Conestoga Centre, having been Miss McMellen before marriage. She was a member of the First Methodist church. The children of deceased are: Abram Hess, of Harrisburg; Josephine, wife of Phares W. Frey, of M. M. Fry & Bros., cigar and tobacco dealers; George Hess, book-keeper at Flinn & Breneman's; Miss Lottie C. Hess, teaching school at Harrisburg; Sallie, wife of John F. Heiland of this city, and Anna, the wife of Menno M. Fry, of this city. A brother in Chester county, one in this county, and a sister in Harrisburg, also survive Mrs. Hess. The funeral will be held on Monday morning at 10 o'clock, with interment at Conestoga Centre.

Daily New Era
August 5th, 1890
Banqueting Red Men
The Tribe at Conestoga Centre Holds Its Annual Entertainment - A Large Gathering.
The chiefs and warriors of Kishacaquilla Tribe of Red Men made merry on Saturday evening last at their wigwam in Conestoga Centre, when they held their annual banquet. A number of their friends gathered with them and helped dispose of the good things provided for the occasion. Three tables were spread with a great quantity of refreshments and about three hundred persons sat down to the tables. Proceeding an attack on the edibles a blessing was invoked by the Rev. Noacher, pastor to the Reformed church of the village. Letters of regret were read during the evening from invited guests who were invited but who were unable to attend. Everything passed off very pleasantly, the large crowd enjoying the occasion to the fullest.
This tribe is in a very flourishing condition, owning their own hall, a neat two story frame structure, and having a comfortable sum in the treasury. The tribe now has 61 members, nine having been added during the past three months.

New Era
October 27, 1890
The Oldest Inhabitant is Dead.
Mrs. Jane Turner Martin Dies at the County Hospital at the age of 102
Mrs. Jane Turner Martin, the oldest known resident of this county, died on Saturday night at the county hospital in her 102nd year. She had been an inmate of the hospital for nearly two years, and for the past year her mind was affected. Previous to entering the hospital, however, she was in apparently good health, and withstood her weight of years well.
The deceased was born near Conestoga Centre and lived in that vicinity all her life time. Her exact age is not known but that she has passed the century mark is beyond question. Her husband, Louis Martin, died fourteen years ago at an advanced age. The aged couple were widely known in the section of country where they lived. Although not a member of the A.M.E. church, she always took an active interest in that denomination and was a familiar figure at the conferences held at Conestoga Centre.
Mrs. Martin, who was Jane Turner before marriage, was the mother of a large family, four of whom are living. These are Sarah Williams of 188 South Christian street, this city; Dennis Martin, the well-known barber, of this city; Mrs. Annie Johnson, of Norristown, and John Martin, of Pottsville. There are fourteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren living. Miss Margaret Turner, of New Danville, is a sister, and is 86 years old.
The funeral will be held at the chapel of the Lancaster County Almshouse on Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock. Services will be conducted by Rev. John Kohrand the interment will be made at New Danville.

New Era
Nov. 28, 1890
The Safe Harbor Rolling Mill Suspends
The Safe Harbor rolling mill shut down on Wednesday at noon, throwing out of employment between 160 and 175 men. The mill has been running very steady for the last year, and its sudden stop was a great surprise to all. How long it will remain closed is not known, but we trust it wlll soon be in operation again.

Christmas in Conestoga and the first reference to Night School
Lancaster New Era
December 30, 1890
Conestoga Centre Jottings
Christmas at the Centre passed off quietly, but in a pleasant manner. The General Reynolds Cornet Band paraded the streets, as is their annual custom, and their music was much enjoyed by the villagers. In the evening the Sunday school of the Reformed church held their Christmas entertainment, the audience present being a large one. The exercises consisted of recitations, vocal and instrumental music, all being rendered in a manner that reflected much credit on those participating.
On New Year's evening the Sunday-school of the M. E. church will hold their Christmas festival, which will consist of readings, recitations and vocal and instrumental music. Those who want seats must go to the place early, for these entertainments always attract large crowds.
Messrs, Day, McClure and Caldwell, teachers in the public schools of the district, have opened a night school in the East Centre school house for the young men unable to attend day school. It is patronized and much interest is taken in it.

New Era
May 2, 1891
Death of Dr. Peter S. Clinger
He Dies Suddenly at Conestoga Centre from Heart Disease
The host of friends of Dr. Peter S. Clinger, probably the oldest practicing physician in Lancaster county, will regret to learn that he died very suddenly from heart disease this morning at eleven o'clock at his home in Conestoga Centre. He was in the eighty-fourth year of his age. A wife alone survives him, their three children having died. Mrs. Clinger was a Miss Leah Manning and she married the Doctor at Conestoga, where she resided. Dr. Clinger was a native of Chester county and in early life, in fact, up to the age of forty, he followed the occupation of miller. He then studied medicine and after graduating settled in Conestoga Centre, where he has lived ever since, it having been over two score years since he first came there. For many years he has been the Government medical examiner of persons applying for pensions.
Dr. Clinger was taken ill about three weeks ago with an affection of the heart, but had so far recovered that he was able to leave the house. He was out in his yard this morning shortly before the fatal summons came. Soon after the first shock came he passed away. The deceased was a man of many good qualities and his death, which closes a long and well spent life, will be sincerely mourned by a host of friends. The Doctor was a member of the Lancaster City and County Medical Society.

New Era
May 6, 1891
Funeral of Dr. P. S. Clinger
Dr. P.S. Clinger, the notice of whose death appeared in our issue of Saturday, was interred in the family burying plot at Conestoga Centre M. E. church on Tuesday, May 5th, at 10 o'clock A.M. Notwithstanding the extreme blustery weather, an immense concourse of people gathered as the hour for service drew near, indicating by their presence, as well as by expressions of sorrow, the high esteem in which this aged and eminent physician was held. Very many people were unable to gain admission to the church because of the throng. The religious services were in charge of Rev. C. S. Mervice, pastor of the M.E. church at Conestoga Centre, who preached an eloquent sermon, based on 2 Tim 1: 10, Mr. Mervice was assisted by Rev. F. G. Coxsen, of Fernwood, Pa., a former pastor and intimate friend of the family. The religious services were followed by the impressive burial ceremony of the Independent Order of Red Men, conducted by Kichacaquillas Tribe, No. 65, of which Dr. Clinger was a charter member.
The Doctor, who had reached his 83rd year, was a remarkably well preserved and vigorous man, continuing in practice up to within a few days of his death. Some two weeks ago rheumatism of the heart appeared and this resulted as above stated.
In his last illness Dr. Clinger was faithfully and constantly attended by Dr. M. H. H. Kendig, of Conestoga Centre, for whose unremitting care the family realize they are indebted beyond possibility of repayment. Dr. Kendig was with the deceased when the final moment came although the death was so sudden that Mrs. Clinger, who was hastily summoned, failed to reach the room in time to see her husband died. Dr. Clinger had been in active practice almost fifty years.

New Era
May 14, 1892
Conestoga Items
The Salvation Army visited Conestoga Centre and held service to the M.E. church, on Saturday evening. The meeting was very largely attended, the house being packed, full and many remaining on the outside.
The M.E. Sunday school organization took place some time ago. The school elected for their Superintendent B. F. Hookey, who has filled this position for three consecutive terms and is now entering on his fourth term. The remaining officers elected were as follows; Assistant Superintendent, Grant Gardner; Secretary, Mame Hiller; Assistant Secretary, Emma Urban; Librarian Sue H. Henry and Assistant Liberians W.W. Aument and Jacob F. Caldwell; Treasurer, Jacob Henry; Organist Emma Urban and assistant Organists Minnie Hess. The number of teachers having charge of classes is twelve, who have under their instruction at present sixty eight pupils. We hope the year of Sunday-school work just entered upon may be a very successful one.
I. H. Shenk is making preparations for removing his barn from where it now stands and erecting it along the upper road, and at the same time improving it to a great extent.
A. R. Caldwell, one of our veterans in the field of education, has finished teaching the unexpired term at the Wyatt school, which was vacated by Martin F. Brenner the last term.
William McLane, son of our old school teacher and former Justice of the Peace, H. S. McLane, and who now resides in Lancaster, has been spending several weeks with friends and relatives in this place.
Christian Hess and family, of Lancaster, were the guests of friends and relatives in Conestoga on Sunday.
Laura McGlaughlin, who was working in Lancaster for several months, is home on a visit of a few weeks with her parents here.
Bertha Hiller, of Lancaster, has been spending a few weeks with relatives here.
B. Frank Warfel has filled a large hot bed with sweet potatoes, and will be ready in the near future to furnish the public with many thousands of sprout for planting this season.
Johnny Bortzfield, son of M. M. Bortzfield at the east end store, whose arm was dislocated through having a bad fall last week, can now use his arm again and will soon be as active as ever.
Mr. Sigel, of New Holland, who graduated at Millersville State Normal School, opened a session of summer school in the Central Graded School building on Monday with a corps of twenty-one young students. Some more intend falling into the ranks, and it is hoped the school will prove a grand success in numbers and advancement.

New Era
June 1, 1892
On Saturday, June 4, our voters will have their first experience in voting under the new Baker Ballot System. The booths and apparatus are here now, and the new voting place will be Guile's old wagon maker shop, a very suitable place.
Edwin H. Witmer, printer, of Columbia, is paying a visit to his parents at this place.
Clayton Hill, who shot himself though the hand with a revolver, is recovering rapidly from his wound.

New Era
June 6, 1892
Voting in Conestoga Centre
The First Election in the County Under the Baker Ballot Law
At Conestoga Centre, on Saturday, was held the first election in Lancaster county under the Baker Ballot Law, being held for the purpose of electing two School Directors for Conestoga township and the Safe Harbor Independent District. An election at this time was rendered necessary by reason of that held in those districts in February having been declared irregular by the Court, which ordered a new election. On the 31st of May the primaries were held. The election on Saturday took place in the wagon maker shop of the later William Guiles, the County Commissioners having provided ten booths of the kind required by law for the voters of the district, of whom there are 500. But 340 votes were cast however and the result was as follows: Conestoga township, both candidates elected being Republicans, there term being three years; Geo. J. Fehl, 220; H.H. Kurtz 183; David S. Hess 128. For the Safe Harbor District the directors were chosen for two years, both being Republicans. The were H.M. Stauffer, 2 votes, and John Denlinger, 2 votes. The election was conducted by the following officers: Judge Joseph Walter; Inspectors, Harry Good and Michael G. Kreisley; Clerks, Albert Caldwell and William Miller. Some delay was occasioned in the morning by the inexperience of the election board, but after familiarizing themselves with the new system the voting proceeded more satisfactorily. Some of the voters required being instructed in the new manner of voting, and Constable Edward Duke cheerfully furnished this, taking his place for the purpose inside the guard rail. Of the voters some pronounced against the new system, as clumsy, while the majority of them expressed themselves favorably. A good many visitors were present from the Hempfields, Pequea and Martic townships to witness the new style of voting, and most of those appeared pleased with it.
The first vote was cast by one of the candidates, H.H. Kurtz. The counting of the vote was finished by 10:30 PM.

New Era
July 13, 1892
Clippings about Conestoga
The farmers have reason to feel glad that their hay and harvest are so neatly housed and can now give due attention to their tobacco and other crops.
Harvest is over, money made, and soon plenty of opportunities to spend it at picnics and festivals will be given all over the county.
On Saturday evening, July 16, the Ancient Order Knights of the Mystic Chain, Conestoga Centre castle, No 178 intends holding a grand festival on the East Centre school grounds. A good time is expected.
On the same evening as the above, will be held at John H. Swishers Fern Park, at Rock Hill, a grand festival and ball.
E. H. Zercher, who had his arm terribly pierced with a fork about a week ago, and whose friends were greatly alarmed, fearing he would take lock-jaw, has now recovered from the effects of his wound so as to be able to again attend to his shop duties to the great satisfaction of all.
W. F. Bruner, his wife Mary, and daughter Olive, who about a year ago moved from this place to Philadelphia, are visiting friends in this village.
A large number of our Improved Order of Red Men attended the memorial services held for Watson H. Miller, one of their highly esteemed brothers in the lodge, who was lost at sea, at the Reformed Mennonite church, New Danville, on Sunday July 10. Mr. Miller was a young man of fine culture, good habits, sociable and a warm friend. He was well liked by all who knew him and is missed by everyone in this place as well as other places where he was acquainted.
Mrs. Martin Hess has erected a fine new kitchen aside of her residence, which is not yet quite completed on the inside.
Al Flick has somewhat enlarged his kitchen by tearing out a large chimney fire-place and has prepared himself to catch all the rain water possible by building a new cistern. Mr. Flick's barbering seems to be growing steadily. He carries on this work on the second floor of Jacob Bitt's provision, grocery and feed store and every Saturday night is kept busy until 10 o'clock and later.

New Era
Tuesday, July 19, 1892
Conestoga Scraps
The festival held by the A.O.K. of the M.C. on Saturday evening was very largely attended, and as a very quiet and moral crowd were present, everything passed off very nicely. Many large cakes which were donated by our kind-hearted ladies of this village were readily disposed of at auction and by cake-walks. A handsome profit from the sale of those cakes and the confections and cream was realized, which will be used in the best possible manner for the good of the order, which is yet young, but thriving and energetic.
George Kreider, who was the victim of a Fourth of July, accident in having his hand very badly burned in firing off a sky-rocket, still has his hand tied up, but is able to work again.
George McMillan, clerk in Wanamaker's store in Philadelphia, spent Sunday with his mother.
Wm. F. Bruner, who had been visiting his parents and friends in this place for a week, has returned to Philadelphia to attend to the duties of his office.
The Reformed Church Sunday-school and preaching services were largely attended on Sunday. Many of the older persons, as well as middle-aged and young, are taking an active part in the Sunday-school work, which is of vast importance, and if continued so throughout the year, will be a grand success for good.
J.R. Yentzer is busy at picking berries and will soon put his evaporators to operation again for evaporating corn.
Mary A. Kendig, landlady of our village hotel, has just had her bar-room wainscoted and set in good style by Maris Benedict.
Michael Lefevre, our energetic Supervisor, is passing over the roads again, fixing whatever is needed with his corps of workmen.
John M. Warfel, whose large bank barn was destroyed by lightening a month or so ago, has dug out a new foundation and will make all necessary arrangements for the building of a new one very soon.

Lancaster New Era
March 28, 1893
Conestoga Centre News
Red Men Held an Election - An Officer Long in Harness - A Birthday Party
The following chiefs of Kishacaquillas Tribe, No. 65 I.O.R.M., were elected on Saturday evening at their wigwam at Conestoga Centre:
Prophet, M. M. Bortzfield; Sachem, George Eckman; Senior Sagamore, John H. Markley; Junior Sagamore; John S. Carigan; Chief of Records, Benjamin F. Hookey; Assistant Chief of Records, A. J. Zercher; Keeper of Wampum, Jacob Henry; Rep. to Great Council, A. J. Zercher; Trustee for eighteen months, Jacob F. Caldwell; Janitor, Jacob Henry.
B. F. Hookey, the present effficient Chief of Records, has held that postion and the office of Trustee for twenty-six consecutive years, or almost from the time of the flourishing tribe was instituted, which was in May 28, 1866. He was one of the charter members and one of its founders.
The financial standing of the tribe is excellent, the membership being seventy. They own their own hall, a nice two story frame building that cost $2100, and on which there is now only an indebtedness of $400.
An enjoyable surprise party was held on Saturday evening at the residence of Mr. Andrew Flick, in honor of his daughter, Miss Minnie Flick. The affair was a complete surprise to her, but she enjoyed with the rest, the games and other amusements of the evening. It was a very pleasant affair, indeed.
The roads about Conestoga are gradually becoming dry but there is still plenty of snow in some places, particularly on the hills near the village, one of the roads not yet being open to travel.

Lancaster New Era
March 29, 1893
Slackwater Paper Mill Sold
Purchased by a Firm of Chicago Manufacturers - To be Much Improved.
The sale of the Slackwater paper mill, on the Conestoga creek, near Lancaster, has just been consummated through J. I. Steinmetz Esq., the purchaser being the Duples Paper and Manufacturing Company, of Chicago. They have already secured possession and expect to start the mill within the next three weeks. It has been idle for a year past. Considerable repairs to machinery must be made and seven more drying machines, over double the number now there, will be put in. The plant is sufficiently extensive, with the seven new driers, to produce twelve thousand pounds of paper per day, and in a short time the mill will be operated to its fullest capacity. The paper made will all be colored, the process being a patent one, the color being given to the paper as it passes over the drying rolls the last time. Forty hands will be employed when the mill runs to its fullest capacity. The company making the purchase controls a number of paper mills. The President is C. B. Orvis and the Treasurer C. P. Brevoort.

New Era
May 18, 1893
Conestoga Items
Superintendent M. J. Brecht put in his pleasant appearance in our township on Tuesday, for the purpose of conducting an examination of applicants for schools in our district. The day was pleasant and so was the examination. The class consisted of fourteen candidates, eleven of whom passed the ordeal successfully.
All the schools but two have been filled for the coming term with competent teachers, the appointments being as follows; Locust Grove, Martin Eshleman; Fairview, Annie R. Urban; West Centre, Kate Buckwalter; Central Graded, Hugh A. Evans; East Centre, A. R. Caldwell; Lower Harbor Road, Geo. F. Lawrence; Prospect Hill, S. J. Finley; and River Hill, Agnes Costelo. Green Hill and Wyatt are vacant.
A. I. Henry went to Reading as representative from Kishacaquillas Tribe, I.O.R.M., to the Great Council in session at that place.

I.O.R.M. is International Order of Red Men
Lancaster New Era
Oct. 6, 1893
Conestoga Items
Mr. Herman Vollersten and his sister, Lizzie, Mr. Jacob Rudy, wife and daughter, Emma, Mr. Ephraim Herr and wife and mr. John Enck were the grests of Elias Eshbaugh on Sunday. Mr. Enck is spending the week here for the purpose of gathering walnuts, butternuts etc.
Miss Annie Esbaugh and her sister, Barbie, were the guests of Mrs. Samuel McGlaughlin on Monday afternoon.
Frank McGlaughlin and Harry Haverstick were gathering walnuts on Saturday. They loaded a hand cart with walnuts, but the load was too heavy for them and they had to leave the cart in the woods until assistance could be secured.
Farmers and sweet potato growers are busy storing away their sweet pototaoes.
Mr. Frank Hoak is on the sick list.
Mr. A. C. Warfel has gone to the York fair..
Mr. Albert Smith had a sale on Saturday and intends moving to Lancaster.
Mrs. Kate Neeson, who has been keeping house at Rohrerstown has returned home.
The Old Mennonite Sunday-school will close in three weeks.
Mr. Joseph Kreider lost a pocket-book, containing about five dollars, on Thursday afternoon. The finder will be rewarded by returning it.

Did Milton Hershey consider Safe Harbor for his chocolate factory ? This was about the time Hershey acquired choclolate manufacturing equipement.
New Era
December 3, 1894
Safe Harbor to Boom
Nearly a hundred men went to work on the changes and improvements which will be made to the old rolling mill at Safe Harbor preparatory to its conversion into a match factory, which will employ between three and four hundred persons. It is believed the factory will begin operations in about two months.
Safe Harbor is evidently branching out as a manufacturing place, and a prominent citizen of the place stated to-day that the establishment of a chocolate factory there soon is assured.

New Era
December 4, 1894
The Safe Harbor Match Factory
The deeds of the Safe Harbor rolling mill property from David Reeves, et, al., to Adolph Segal, and from the latter to the Safe Harbor Match Company, were filed for record in the Recorders office to-day. Mr. Segal is one of the promoters and organizers of the Match Company, and sold the property to the latter for $14,500.
The property will be transformed into a match factory and those useful little articles will be manufactured on a very large scale.

Lancaster New Era
December 8, 1894
Large Fire at Conestoga
Two Buildings Destroyed and Adjoining Properties in Great Peril -Several Minor Blazes
The village of Conestoga Centre was thrown into a unwonted state of alarm this morning by the alarm of fire, and in a couple of hours two buildings were in ruins. The properties destroyed were the cigar factory of Maris Good and the dwelling owned by Mrs. Anna Fralich, widow of John Fralich, and occupied by herself and daughter in law, Mrs. Mary Fralich. The buildings adjoined each other, and were only separated by a driveway. On the Maris Good premises is a dwelling house occupied by Jacob Henry and family, and Mr. Henry was the first to discovered the fire, which started in the back part of the cigar factory, from a cause unknown. It was then about three o'clock, and Harry soon had the village aroused, a big crowd of excited people gathering on the scene. The factory, a two story frame building, was soon a mass of flames, and despite every effort made to save the Fralich residence, a neat one and a half story brick, it was also destroyed, but most of the furniture was saved. The dwellings of the Misses McAllister and Joseph Witmer, on the side of the road opposite the buildings burned, caught fire, and were saved with difficulty, and the house occupied by Mr. Henry also came near being destroyed. The stable was on fire several times and a hard fight had to be made to save it. The only water at hand with which to fight the flames was that obtained from a draw-well, and the supply consequently, was limited.
A large quantity of cigars went up in smoke with the factory. The latter had only resumed operations recently after being closed a considerable time. The loss on both buildings, with their contents, is several thousand dollars.

Daily Examiner
April 17, 1895
SAFE HARBOR NOTES
The Big Match Factory - Work Stopped by the High Water
The match factory, which but four months ago was merely talked of as a possibility, is today a reality. An immense brick structure, covering an acre of ground, taken the place of the old rolling mill site.
Through the energy and enterprise of the Philadelphia gentleman who are at the head of the concern the old iron and the debris about the old rolling mill have been removed and new machinery for the making of matches and match boxes have been introduced, and today there are between one hundred and two hundred hands employed. The factory is well worth a visit. Through the kindness of Mr. Bairns, the superintendent, a correspondent of the Examiner was shown through the factory and finds that it is one of the most thoroughly equipped and the management as systematic as any in the country.
Mr. A. G. Hudson has discovered that some person or persons have been making nightly visits to Odd Fellows� and have affected an entrance, but for what purpose is not known. However, the place will be watched and the miscreants apprehended if possible.
Mr. B. F. Campbell talks of making some improvements on the place where he lives and which he purchased last fall.
The river has been very high for the past few days thus preventing work on the bridge that is being constructed across the mouth of the Conestoga creek by the P.R.R.
There are a few very good lots of tobacco in the vicinity yet, but buyers seem to be scarce.

Lancaster Inquirer
Saturday, June 8, 1895
KIRK SHOT TO KILL
A Dispute About Lands Leads to an Attempted Murder
. THE MEN LIVE IN CONESTOGA CENTRE
Lewis Kirk and Scott Stomp Arrested And in Jail.
At an early hour Monday morning Lewis Kirk, colored, was lodged in jail here charged with shooting and attempting to kill Edward Peaco, another colored man. The men are neighbors and live in Conestoga Centre. Each owns several acres of ground and between them is several acres of land which belongs to the estate of Uries Hill, whose heirs have allowed it to remain uncultivated. Both Kirk and Peaco claimed the right to pasture their horses on this lot and on that account there was bitterness between them.
Last week Peaco put his horse in the field several times, and finally Kirk told him if he did so again he would shoot him. On Saturday night Peaco turned his horse into the field. Kirk became so enraged that he ran into the house returned with a gun that he loaded that day with buckshot, as he said to kill his neighbor. He blazed away at Peaco, the load taking effect in his breast, groin, arms and legs.
Immediately after the shooting Scott Stomp, a brother-in-law of Peaco, armed himself with a revolver and repaired to Kirk's house. Kirk was standing in the yard when confronted by Stomp, who at once opened fire on him. While the bullets were flying a 6 year old daughter of Kirk's ran screaming towards her father, and he caught her up in his arms and placed his body between her and Stump to shield her from the flying bullets. But the man doing the shooting was a bad shot and all of his bullets went wide of the mark. After emptying the weapon he returned to his brother-in-laws house. Kirk came to town to give himself up, but could not find his lawyer and left. The police captured him near Wheatland Mills at 2 o'clock in the morning in bed at David G. Kendig's house and he at once surrendered. The physicians took seventeen buckshot from the body of Peaco, and they think he will recover unless inflammation sets in.
Kirk is 58 years old, while Peaco is but 27. Kirk says he shot to kill, because Peaco was a much stronger man and he could not fight him successfully. Before being taken to jail he entered complaint against Stomp, accusing the latter of attempting to kill him, and that individual was also arrested.

The Inquirer
August 22, 1896
80,000 CANTALOUPES
Raised Out About Conestoga Centre This Season
4,000 BUSHELS CUCUMBER PICKLES
A Cantaloupe and Pickle Colony at the Foot of Nickel Mine Hill.
Great is Conestoga township, and great are some of its products; one of them is tickling the palates and throats of half of Lancaster today, and its name is cantaloupe.
Casper Hiller & Son knew a thing or two, or else made a lucky hit, when they made their first commercial venture in the cantaloupe line about six years ago, and the broad trail blazed by them then has been followed by their neighbors near "Centre" until now if dozen or more can be properly considered as belonging to the Conestoga Cantaloupe colony, which will furnish Lancaster and vicinity, during this month of August fully 80,000 of these luscious mush melons.
The principal growers are Casper Hiller, P.C. Hiller, Frank L. Foutz, Geo. Pries, Dan. Shenk, Jacob Morrison, B. L. Harnish, Christian Ehrline, B. F. Henry, Maynard Warfel, H. C. McAllister and John W. Urban.
Shenk has out about four acres, which is a larger acreage than any of the others has, and will have the largest crop. His land is high and owing to the drought will probably not yield quite so well to the acre, as the lower-lying land of Casper Hiller and Harnish. P.C. Hiller expects a yield of 3500 melons from his three-quarter acre patch, and estimates that the 20 acres in the neighborhood devoted to this crop, will average about 4000 per acre, which will make a total as stated above of about 8-,000, one-half of which have already been marketed. The bulk of the remainder will be sold in the next fortnight, and a few may be found on the vines until the middle of September.
A half dozen different varieties are raised, but the leading one is the Hackensack or Turk�s Head, which is medium as regards season, and above medium in size.
The average yield is about five to a hill, one grower said, but if this be so it would make the average per acre considerably greater than estimated in this article, and would give Mr. Harnish, who as 3200 hills, a crop of 16,000, equal to Mr. Shenk�s, estimated at 4,0000 per acre.
Mr. Harnish says he has marketed 5,000 and the season not half gone. H has been raising them for four years. Those sold this season have brought from three to fifteen cents.
P.C. Hiller thinks Lancaster is the best market for cantaloupes in the country, of its size; that Conestoga raises one-half of all that are raised in the county, and that it furnished 40 percent of all that are used in this city during the month of its cantaloupe harvest, but
Frank Metfett, at the Northern market, who sells more fruit of this kind than any other dealer in the city, and possibly as much as all others combined, says that when the influx from Conestoga comes, he shuts down on cantaloupes-he can�t sell them. He continued, "We fought to be selling 150 to 200 barrels of cantaloupes a week now, but on account of these people selling on markets and peddling about the streets, I can barely get rid of five or ten. People won�t buy from us or us or from the hucksters on the street while such quantities of the home-grown melons are to be had." His estimate was that nearly the whole amount consumed in this city during this season came from Conestoga and other scattered local sources.
Next to Conestoga in importance as a cantaloupe producing settlement in that at the foot of Nickel Mill Hill in Paradise township, and extending into Strasburg, Amos Dellinger and John Scotes farm about five acres, Geo. Graham one acre, Geo. Eckert a half acre, and Gabriel Eckert, Amos Hoover and others small lots. The total here reaches about ten acres. Denlinger and Scoles market most of their product in the patch;� they were the first to try the business, about six years ago, and have a large trade. The other market in this city.
George Graham one of these growers has devoted much of his time for many years to the production of immature cucumbers, which are popularly known as pickles, whether they are vinegared or not. Mr. Graham has been engaged in this business for twelve or fourteen years and thinks he has bought more pickles to the Lancaster market than any other man in the county. He is called Graham (frequently pronounced Grimes) the pickle man, on the Lancaster market. He has this year about three acres of pickles; last week he took 130 bushels from the vines and on Monday and Tuesday of this week, about 80 bushels. He things an average yield per acre is from 125 to 150 bushels, but that this season, having been especially favorable, will do better, but prices have fallen so that the average price of all sizes (they sell now for twelve cents a hundred) is about fifty cents a bushel. Ten persons are employed working this three-acre patch; the first planting is about June 1, and four more are made, the last about the 25th of June or a few days after the longest day. He uses no barnyard manure, but plenty of commercial fertilizer, and does not think it advisable to plant the same ground many years in succession, because the bugs or melon beetle get so bad. To destroy these paris green, mixed with land plaster, is sprinkled over the plants while the dew is on. Those with small patches, cover the hills with small muslin caps drawn over two bowed pieces of wire

Daily Intelligencer
December 12, 1896
An Old Citizen�s Death
The funeral of John Glick, an old resident of Safe Harbor, who died on Tuesday, took place on Friday. The deceased was 78 years of age and lived in Safe Harbor for many years, having come here form Germany when a young man. He was a locksmith by trade and was employed at the iron works in the village for many years. He afterwards kept a saloon and later a liquor store, but of late years had been living retired with his son, Adam. His other sons are William, Willis and John.
A HOTEL DESTROYED
The Groff House at Safe Harbor Burned this Morning
The Groff house, a brick hotel in Safe Harbor, situated on the Conestoga township side of the creek, was destroyed by fire at an early hour this morning. The building was of two stories and has been conducted since last spring by John Campbell. The hotel has enjoyed a license for the past fifteen years and its first proprietor was Amos Sourbeer, of this city. The property is owned by Isaac Brackbill, who lives near Strasburg.
The fire broke out between 3 and 4 o�clock and was first discovered by Mrs. Campbell who was sleeping on the second floor and was awakened by the smoke which filled every room. She awakened her husband, boarders and all other members of the family, after which she went out and aroused the neighbors. The fire made very rapid progress and the heat became so intense that despite the hard work of everybody they were they were only able to save the furniture in the parlor. Everything else in the building was burned. Campbell�s pocketbook containing considerable money, which was on the bureau in his room, was among the article burned. The inmates of the house made very narrow escape from being caught by the flames and considered themselves very fortunate in getting out.
It is believed that the fire started from a stove which stood in the partition between the barroom and the dining room. The stove likely became too hot and caught the woodwork. Mrs. Campbell says that when she ran out to alarm the neighbors the stove had already fallen through into the cellar, where the fire was then raging.

New Era
March 22,1897
Safe Harbor Notes
The Mite Society of the M.E. Church proposes holding a free sociable on Saturday evening, March 27th.
The condition of Mr. Frank Bruner, who has been seriously ill for some time, is unchanged.
The river at this point is rising on account of the recent heavy rains.
The match factory still remains idle , with no prospect of resuming work soon.
The general merchandise store which for the past quarter century has been known as Tripple's store, and for the past two years has been under the management of John D. Tripple, was recently sold to Mr. John Worth, a popular young man of Safe Harbor, who ill assume charge of it about April 1.

New Era
March 22, 1897
Paper Mill Burned
Disastrous Fire At Slackwater
The Large Stone Mill Recently Secured by the New Electric Lights Company Completely Destroyed Early This Morning.
The Loss Covered by Insurance.
The group of buildings forming the Slackwater paper mill, about five miles from Lancaster, on the Conestoga Creek, was destroyed by fire early this morning, the origin of it being unknown. The mill was at one time operated by the Shobers, and after various vicissitudes came into the possession of Gustavus Grossinger, who recently sold it to the Lancaster Electric Light Company, which not long since received the contract for lighting the streets of our city. The main building was a two story structure of stone and brick, and with the buildings erected from time to time as annexes formed a considerable group. These structures were at first designed to be the power station of the new light company, but afterwards the Board of Directors decided to erect a new station building, and after tearing down some of the annexes of the paper mill, convert what remained into a paper and paper bag factory, creating a small industrial community, as there are thirteen dwelling houses close to the mill. A county bridge spans the creek close to the mill, making the locality one of some importance. The fire will cause a material change to be made in the light company's plans, though it will in no way interfere with the plans for lighting the city by the stipulated time, June 1st.
The fire was discovered this morning about one o'clock by Mrs. Martin, wife of a tenant of one of the dwellings near the mill. She gave the alarm, and Frederick George and Benjamin Hess hastened to the place. They found that the flames had already gained a dangerous headway in a place used as a store room, and nothing that could be done could check their spread, so that in a comparatively short time the entire group of buildings was on fire, the light being plainly seen in this city. The structure where the machinery was burned fiercest, as the woodwork was saturated with oil and grease from the machines, and by four o'clock this morning only a blackened ruin remained. A big crowd of people from the surrounding country gathered at the scene of the disaster, but as there no facilities for fighting the fire the crowd could only look helplessly on at the destruction being wrought by the fiery element. Mr. Hook, who is in charge of the workmen on the new station, placed men with buckets of water at the bridge and on the dwellings nearest the burning mill, and these were all saved. But for this precaution the bridge and every dwelling would probably have been destroyed.
In the mill was the complete machinery of a paper mill and five machines for making paper, and the destruction of all this, with the buildings, entails a loss stated at between $20,000 and $25,000. The insurance is $20,000, controlled by Bausman & Eaby, who had some of it in companies of which they are agents, and the balance was placed with other local agents. This is absolutely no means of ascertaining how the fire started.

Lancaster Inquirer
March 27, 1897
1869 Uncle Tom at "Centre," 1897
Conestoga home talent played --"Uncle Tom's Cabin," in Minerva Hall, Conestoga Centre, on last Saturday evening to a good audience. The receipts amounted to about $25.00.
                       The character cast were:
                      Uncle Tom, a Faithful Slave............J.H.Yentzer
                                            Legree .....................Wayne Witmer
                                            St. Clair.................... Wayne Witmer
                                            Gumption Cute.........Wm. H. Witmer
                                            Shelby...................Dr. L. M. Witmer
                                            George Harris..........Wm. C. Smith Jr.
                                            Sambo ....................Wm. C. Smith Jr.
                                            Deacon Perry ...........Albert C. Urban
                                            Haley ........................Chas. R. Smith
                                            Marks....................... Chas. R. Smith
                                            Eva.............................Emily Hookey
                                            Eliza......................Rebecca Carrigan
                                           Casey........................Minnie E. Hess
                                           Marie.............................Lena Martin
                                           Emmeline.......................Lena Martin
                                           Aunt Opfella.........Jennie K. Carrigan
                                           Topey........................Doris M. Smith

The same day A. J. Zarcher bought a lot of old books at a sale at "Harbor", to one of which was a circular announcing that J.R. Yentser would manage the production of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" in Minerva Hall,

New Era
April 2, 1897
DIED IN HIS CHAIR
Christian H. Breneman, a Retired Farmer, Passes Away Very Suddenly
Christina H. Breneman, a retired farmer and highly respected citizen residing near Safe Harbor, died very suddenly from heart failure on Thursday, while sitting in a chair at home. he had been in his usual state of health, apparently, and his sudden death was a great shock to his family. His daughter, Anna, saw him apparently sleeping in his chair with the Bible in his lap about twenty minutes before it was found that he was dead. He was in the sixty-eighth year of his age. The children surviving him are Jacob, at home; Barbara, wife of Henry S. Kendig, residing near Millersville; William, residing near Safe Harbor, and Annie at home. The funeral will take place at nine o�clock on Sunday morning from the later home of the deceased, burial being made an hour later at the Old Mennonite Meeting House at Masonville.
Coroner Shank held an inquest over the remains this morning and from the evidence given by Dr. J. L. Mowery the jury rendered a verdict of death from heart disease and apoplexy.

Smith-Grossman
A quiet wedding took place in the U.B. parsonage at Millersville on Thursday, April 1st, at high noon, when Mr. Harry Smith, of Conestoga Centre, and Lizzie Grossman, of Slackwater, were united in wedlock. The ceremony was performed by Rev. S. G. Kauffman.

New Era
April 17, 1897
The Safe Harbor Match Factory Will Resume Operation
The Safe Harbor match factory, which closed down in December, will resume operations about the first of May. It formerly employed one hundred hands.

The Sterling Gazette
August 8, 1898
Death of Mrs. Michael Hess of Jordan

Across the Whiteside county line, near Penrose, yesterday occurred the funeral of one of Jordantown's best respected residents, Mrs. Michael Hess, who died very suddenly at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ripley Stauffer, on Friday noon. For a number of years she had been a helpless invalid from heart disease; but her condition on the day of her death seemed no more precarious than usual.
Mary Magdalena Eshleman was born in Lancaster county, Pa., October 20, 1820. She spent her girlhood there and nearly sixty years ago was married to Michael Hess. They came west in the spring of 1868 and Mr. Hess, who had worked as a mason and shoemaker in the east, became a successful farmer in Penrose. Twelve children were born to them, ten of whom survive, Benjamin having died in the east and Michael is buried in Alaska, where he died seven years ago. Three daughters and seven sons, besides her husband survive. They are: Mary, wife of Ripley Stauffer of Jordan; Zachariah, who is out west; Emma, wife of Henry Mellinger of Jordan; Eli, Sterling; Emanuel, Jordan; Jacob, Spearville, Kan.; Susan, wife of Jacob Trouth of Dixon; Ephriam, Dixon; Theodore, Sterling.
Her long illness prevented Mrs. Hess from being well known by the younger people of her vicinity, but her many older friends will remember her always as a woman of splendid character, a devoted wife, loving mother and kind neighbor and friend. In health she was a regular attendant at the old Mennonite church in Science Ridge.

Lancaster New Era
Tuesday, April 11, 1899
A Fatal Accident
Ralph Turner, of Conestoga Centre, Dragged at the Heals of a Mule - His Injuries Fatal
Ralph Turner, colored, who was employed with John H. Markley, at Conestoga Centre, met with an accident on Monday noon which resulted in his death. He was leaving the barn to go to the field to plow, when his team, a pair of young mules, became unmanageable, and, in some way, Turner was entangled in the harness. He was dragged for quite a distance with his left foot fastened in the trace.
Mr. Markley succeeded in running the mule into the stable. He found Turner in an unconscious condition. Medical aid was of no avail, and the boy died a few hours after the accident occurred.
Ralph was in his sixteenth year, he was a jolly, good natured boy, and was highly thought of by Mr. Markley, who warned him not to ride the mules. The body was removed to the home of the lad's grandmother, Mrs. Stump, from which place the funeral will be held on Thursday at nine o'clock. Interment will be made in the colored cemetery, Conestoga Centre.

William Kendig, one of the Counterfeiters, was born in Conestoga Centre
Lancaster Inquirer
April 22, 1899
Counterfeiters in Lancaster
Finest Outfit Even Known for Making Bogus Notes, Found in Wm. L. Kendig's Warehouse.
Wm. L. Jacobs, Cigar Manufacturer
Was the Brains of the Rascals - Philadelphia Engravers and Prominent Lawyer in the Plot.

Wm. M. Jacobs, the most prominent cigar manufacturer of this city, and James Burns, one of his employees, are in Moyamensing prison, Philadelphia, in default of bail in the sums of $45,000 and $25,000 respectively; William L. Kendig whose cigar factory just above the railroad on North Queen street, was connected with the Jacobs factory, secured bail in the sum of $25,000, his brothers-in-law, sons of the late John R. Bitner, going on his bond.
All are charged with counterfeiting cigars stamps in immense quantity, and also making the celebrated Monroe $100 silver certificate which was so perfect that about fifteen months ago it sorely puzzled government experts to say whether or not it was genuine.
The arrests were made by fourteen government detectives on Wednesday and the hearing was that evening.
The dies used in printing both stamps and notes were found in Kendig's place of business, as also dies, which had not yet been used, for the printing of $50 notes, and a large quantity of paper. It is said that counterfeit cigar stamps, with a face value of $140,000 were found.
Arthur Taylor and Baldwin S. Bredell, engravers, of Philadelphia, makers of the plates and dies used, were arrested the same day in Philadelphia, also ex-Assistant United States District Attorney Harvey Newitt, charged with having attempted, as attorney for Jacobs, Kendig, et al., to bribe one of the U. S. detectives.
The search for the makers of the celebrated $100 silver certificate counterfeits began fifteen months ago , and all steel engravers in the United States were placed under surveillance. Suspicion fell upon the Philadelphia engravers because they seemed to have too little of the ordinary run of business to keep up their establishment. When it was discovered that they were acquainted with Jacobs, that and the recollection of a few shady transactions in which he was alleged to have figured threw suspicion upon him also.
Jacobs and Kendig have been watched for nearly a year.
It seems that the detectives were hunting only for the counterfeiters of the silver certificates, and that the discovery of the bogus stamps was unexpected.
Jacobs is 35 years of age, married, came here from Bucks county in 1891, and has built up a tremendous business, employing several hundred hands. He has figured prominently in the civil courts.
Kendig is about the same age, son of Dr. B. S. Kendig, of this city, and was born in Conestoga Centre.
Burns is of this city, was on Mayor Clark's police force, and was the counterfeiter's printer.
In Jacob's factory nine tons of unprinted internal revenue paper was found. This is equal to about 400,000,000 cigars. It is alleged that Jacobs secured this paper, which is dangerously like the genuine, five years ago.
A number of "shady" transactions in which Jacobs has been interested are being retold; and two to which Jacobs and Kendig were both parties. One of the latter is the burning of a well-insured tobacco warehouse at Conestoga Centre, from which the tobacco is alleged to have been removed. The other is the affair of Dreyfus & Co., a firm of first-class financial rating in new York. They bought bicycles, pianos, sewing machines, umbrellas, everything in carload lots and had them reshipped to other places and sold at auction. None of them were ever paid for; Dreyfus & Co. were found to be a myth; at the time some connection with the matter was traced to Kendig and Jacobs, and it is generally believed now that they alone were Dreyfus & Co.

MORE PLATES FOUND.
On Thursday two more places of twenty dollar notes were found in Kendig's warehouse. Both establishments are in charge of detectives, and work is suspended, throwing several hundred persons out of employment.

STORY OF THE ARRESTS
Jacob arrived at his office about eight o'clock. He had hardly taken his seat at this desk when Detective Burns entered. He was accosted by a clerk, to whom he said he wanted to see Jacobs regarding the purchase of some leaf tobacco. This secured his prompt admission.
"Ah, " said Jacobs, looking up from his des, "you want to buy some tobacco?"
"No, " said burns, deliberately, "I don't. I want to tell you that you are my prisoner."
Jacobs half arose from his chair, sank back and turned his face away. When he wheeled to look at Burns there was no shadow of emotion on his face, a rather stout smooth face, with a cynical mouth, a big nose and small shrewd eyes under heavy brows.
"Very well," he answered, "though - I can't see why."
Burns then served warrants on Simone Klein or dlinger, bookkeeper in the factory, and Henry Brailer, the shipping clerk. Detectives have been in the Kendig factory since midnight. They were on every floor and in the office awaiting Kendig's and Burns' arrival. Burns came in first. When told that he was under arrest he tried to speak, but could not. He simply fell into a chair and stared blankly at the floor.
Kendig walked briskly into his little office a second later, only to start back at the sight of the three detectives overhauling the papers in his desk. His face blanched, and he received in silence the information that he was under arrest. He asked no explanations.
As he stood there the detectives were alarmed to see him shuddering as if from ague. His limbs gave way, and had not one of the men caught him he would have fallen on his face. They placed him in a chair and made him drink some water. Burns had recovered sufficiently to grin at Kendig's dismay. Small wonder that Kendig collapsed, for the building which had previously yielded him and his fellow criminals as many hundreds of dollars as they felt like printing now stood as monumental proof of their guilt.
On every floor, in every nook and cranny of the building stood boxes, implements and machinery, attesting the unlawful work done there
.
On the first floor are more than fifty big boxes filled with the best quality of rags for use in making paper. Stacked in one corner of the same floor are one hundred boxes filled with fine silk fiber, which, as is generally known, is threaded into bank-note paper on which United States Treasury notes are printed. A boiler engine is on the same floor. This was used to pump water into the six galvanized iron vats in which the rags were boiled to pulp and refined into paper.
There also are the perforating machines used on the revenue stamps that were printed in the interests of Jacobs, two presses, a paper cutter and a compressor. The presses are small. One is worked by a wheel and the other by a foot plate. But both are most delicately constructed, and run easily.

Daily Examiner
October 23, 1899
From the Boston Journal
You may spell it stogy or "stogie". In the latter case you follow the example of Mr. John Farmer, who is so often wrong in his "Dictionary" of Americanisms". Mr. Farmer, finding and quoting a sentence with the word in the plural, chose his singular form in defiance of the advice of other dictionary makers. You may be brave enough to smoke stogies; you surely have smelled them; and you know that there has of late been newspaper controversy over the respective merits of the Wheeling and Pittsburg brands.
We therefore publish with pleasure an exhaustive essay by our valued correspondent C.W. E.
At home they call it rat tail. Its birthplace is the Conestoga country, about Lancaster, Pa., once famous as the chief highway from tidewater to the Ohio country. For many years, it will be remembered, Lancaster was the greatest town of the interior, away from salt water and navigation. The country about Lancaster and the Conestoga, highly productive, used to carry its flour, iron and provisions to Philadelphia in huge wagons drawn by four, six or eight powerful horses, and when poor Braddock started on is expedition to the Ohio, Franklin, the illustrious, supplied him with a hundred and fifty of these noble outfits. The armies of the Revolution used chiefly Conestoga wagons and made them everywhere familiar. When the famous turnpike from Philadelphia to Lancaster was built, more than a century ago, it was to accommodate these Conestogas. They crowded the still more famous Cumberland road, built by Uncle Sam to Wheeling, across the State of Ohio, and through Indiana and Illinois.
The Conestoga teamsters liked their tobacco and preferred the native weed. Some genius along the road invented the rough cigar, made of Pennsylvania or similar tobacco, and well adapted in price and vigor to the sturdy wagoners. They liked it, the demand increased, and only Edward Atkinson can compute how many millions were produced in the Conestoga country. Wheeling, Pittsburg, and along the old pikes. Like the big wagons, the very vigorous cigar, made after the pattern of a rat tail, came to be known as the Conestoga, soon abbreviated into the more familiar stogy.
Conestoga wagons preceded the Revolution, but the brave stogy came with the more enlightened nineteenth century and should have Mr. Atkinson�s attention. He can compute the horse power presented by this stunning smoke, The clouds it has produced, and how the stogy compares with the Oceanic or the Great Eastern Pennsylvania has never been a champion of home products, and the stogy is such. Not is it in need of tariff protection, perhaps since no tobacco will do for the stogy but the vigorous growth of Alleghany mountain farms. Porto Rico and Manila can do much but they cannot hope to match the poer, the odor, the all pervading energy of the true Pennsylvania stogy. It proves that we are the strongest nation on earth. And really no army or navy is invincible save that which smokes stogies. It is all allowing to stogies, perhaps, that Pennsylvania is so strong and its pig iron so potent, and so strong and every poet in Wheeling or Pittsburg will readily see the idyllic resemblance between stogies and the tallest chimney.

New Era
Dec. 14th, 1899
Matches in Big Demand
The Safe Harbor Match Company of Safe Harbor, was recently bought by Philadelphia capitalists, and the factory has been entirely and thoroughly equipped with new and improved match-making machinery. It is now in running order, and the output is next to the largest, if not the largest in the United States. This factory is independent, not being connected with any other, and is working overtime to fill orders taken though out the country.
Lancaster New Era
April 7, 1900
FIRE AT CONESTOGA CENTRE
Jacob R. Yentzer's Property Burned
Dwelling House and Adjoining Buildings Destroyed - Fire Started in Incubator
A destructive fire occurred at Conestoga Centre early this morning, but bad as it was, the citizens of the village are congratulating themselves over their success in preserving adjoining properties. The property destroyed was owned by Jacob R. Yentzer, and the flames were discovered about one o'clock in the hen-house, from which they spread to a two-story frame dwelling house, frame barn, two-story frame cigar factory and a drying house, all of which were completely destroyed. A horse and lot of fine bred chickens, perished in the flames. The alarm of fire quickly aroused the entire village and men and boys did everything possible towards saving the property, but their efforts proved fruitless. When it was seen that nothing could be effected in that direction the bucket brigade turned its attention to saving surrounding properties, in which they were entirely successful, the fire being confined to the Yentzer property. Mr. Yentzer's loss is about $4,000 and he is insured for $3,100 in the Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Lancaster county. The fire started from an incubator in the hen-house, the oil lamp having doubtless exploded.

New Era,
May 8th, 1900
Conestoga Items
The village now has 'phone connection with Lancaster, the following places being connected: Jacob M. Morrison's cigar factory; A.J. Zercher's store and William Kenne's bakery. The line is to be extended to Safe Harbor this week.
C. S. Bowers met with a painful accident on Friday while cutting poles in York county for Frederick Shoff. An axe in the hands of Frank Walters broke off the handle, and the blade struck Bowers left leg inflicting an ugly gash and severing any artery.
A score of men are at work erecting the building for the machinery which is to crush the ore from the magnetic ore mines on Pequea Creek. The contract for the railroad that will connect the mines with the Columbia and Port Deposit railroad at Safe Harbor has been given out and the race will be built without delay.

New Era
August 7, 1900
Conestoga Centre News
Kishacaquillas Tribe, No. 65, I.O.R.M., held their annual chicken corn soup supper on Saturday evening, August 4, in their hall. Rev. H. R. Johnson, of the M.E. Church, invoked the Divine blessing, after which the members and their friends partook of a bountiful repast. Guests were present from Dover, Delaware; Columbia, Lancaster and nearby villages. It was a grand success. The Committee of Arrangements were Jacob B. Urban, Ira T. Warfel, Benjamin H. Montgomery, Amos F. Martin and William E. Keener, who deserve credit for the admirable manner in which they conducted the affair.
Jacob F. Bruner and family, of Philadelphia, are the guests of Mr. Bruner's brother-in-law, A. G. Zercher. Mr. Bruner was formerly a native of his place, but some years ago went to the city, where he is engaged in the coal business with is brother-in-law, Francis M. Lefevre, also a former resident of this village.
Mr. Frederick Hupper and wife, were the guests of Jacob B. Urban on Sunday. They reside in Lancaster.
The Reformed Mennonites held services in Minerva Hall, Sunday morning, which were largely attended, quite a number of friends being present from Lancaster.

The Inquirer
January 23, 1901
EDGAR HOOKEY�S RASH END
He hanged Himself in His Barn Yesterday Morning.
C. Edgar Hookey, aged about 30, was a son of B. F. Hookey, one of Conestoga�s best known men. About six years ago he married Ida Hess, daughter of David S. Hess, and they lived on a farm close by Conestoga Centre for the last year. They had no children. For about four weeks Mr. Hookey seemed very much depressed, though his health was good. Yesterday morning his wife found his lifeless body hanging in the barn. No other cause than mental distress is assigned for the dreadful act.

New Era
January 31, 1903
Death of Amos Sourbeer
Amos Sourbeer, a well-known resident, died at his home, Locust street, at 9:30 o�clock on Friday night, from paralysis of the brain. He was stricken several years ago, and much of the time since has been helpless. The deceased was sixty-two years of age. He served in the Civil War, and since then was engaged for many years in the hotel business. At different times he kept hotel at Safe Harbor and Slackwater, and was in partnership with Charles M. Strine in conducting the Sprecher House, on North Duke street. In more recent years he was steward of the Citizens� Republican Club, for a period of nine years. Mr. Sourbeer is survived by his wife and two daughters, Mrs. James McHenry, of Piedmont, W. Va., and Mrs. John Brock, of this city. One brother, John Sourbeer of this city, and nine sisters survive. During the Civil War the deceased was a prisoner for a year in Andersonville Prison. Mr. Sourbeer was a member of the G.A.R., Levergood Lodge, No. 1194, I.O.O.F., and A. Herr Smith Castle, No. 178, K.G.E. The funeral will be held at three o�clock on Tuesday afternoon from the lat home of the deceased.

New Era
February 2, 1903
HIGH WATER AT SAFE HARBOR
Safe Harbor was given another scare on Sunday night, caused by the broken ice on the Susquehanna River gorging at Turkey Hill. The water on Sunday "backed" rapidly several times but the floating ice appeared to pass under the gorge at intervals, relieving the press of waters. Sunday night the gorge was stronger, and the back water pushed into Conestoga Creek. The result was that what is called the lower road in Safe Harbor was under four feet of water this morning, but a temporary opening of the gorge relieved the pressure and caused a subsistence of the flood.

The Sterling Gazette
May 15, 1903
DEATH OF MICHAEL HESS
Funeral at Reformed Menonite
Church on Sunday Afternoon at 2:30 O'clock
Michael R. Hess an aged and highly respected citizen of Jordan township, died at 5 o'clock Friday evening at the home of his son in law, Henry Mellinger of Jordan. The funeral will be held Sunday at 1 o'clock at the Mellinger home and at 2:30 in the Reformed Mennonite church in this city. Burial will take place in the cemetery connected with the church. Six sons of the deceased will act as pall bearers and will lay the body of their father in its final resting place at the side of the wife and mother who passed away five years ago. Rev. Wiliam Miller will conduct the services.
Michael Rathford Hess was born in Lancaster county July 7, 1816 and with one exception was the last surviving member of his generation of the family, one brother past four score who lives at the old home survives.
Sixty years ago the deceased was married to Miss Mary Eshelman and in 1868 they came to Illinois and settled in Jordan township, where they spent the rest of their lives. Mrs. Hess preceded her husband to the grave five years ago.
Twelve children were born of this union all but two of whom survive; Michael a son, dying in Alaska and Benjamin, another son, also passed away. The remaining sons are Zachariah and Jerimiah, twins, and Emanuel of Jordan, Eli of this city, Theodore of Mendota, Ephriam of Dixon and Jacob, who resides in Kansas. Three daughters, Mendames Mary Stauffer and Henry Mellinger of Jordan and Mrs. Susan Trouth of Dixon are surviving daughters.
Previous to settling in the west Mr. Hess followed the trade of a mason, but has been a farmer during the thirty-four years of his residence in Jordan. He was a man of unimpeachable probity and highly esteemed by everyone with whom he came in contact. For several years he has suffered from the weakness attending his advanced years. For several months past he has failed rapidly and for a month has been nearly helpless. His death closes a blameless life, one that has been a honor to his kind. His example will live after his body has long returned to the elements from which it came and his name will be synonymous with upright, kindly manhood so long as his last acquaintance lives.

Daily Intelligencer
July 6, 1905
Christian Benedict
Christian Benedict, formerly of Conestoga Center, died on Wednesday at the home of his daughter, mr. Martin Clark, at Greenland. Death was due to a complication of diseases. He was seventy-seven years old and a member of the United Evangelical church. He is survived by his wife and these children: Mrs. Henry Beach, of Conestoga Centre; Mrs. John Irwin, of new Danville; Mrs. Martin Clark, of Greenland; Mrs. Christian Gerlach, of Creswell; Cyrus, of Letort; William, of Mountville; and Mrs. George Warfel of Belmont.
The funeral will take place from his late residence on Saturday morning at ten o�clock and at 2:30 o�clock at the Conestoga Centre U. E. church.

See April 15, 1911 to see Rev. Bennett's fate
The New York Times
March 19, 1904
Methodist Minister Lost
The Rev. J. A. Bennett Started a Week Ago for Philadelphia
Special to the New York Times
PHILADELPHIA, March 18 - The Methodist Conference in session here has a mystery to solve. One of its members who left his home in apparently good health has failed to make his appearance in this city, and the visiting clergy and laymen express anxiety as to his whereabouts. The missing member is the Rev. Joseph A. Bennett of Conestoga, Lancaster County, Penn. Mr. Bennett left Conestoga last Friday, ostensibly to attend the conference here. Since that time neither his family nor the members of the Conference have received any tidings of him.
Messages sent to the pastor's home elicited no information concerning him, other than he started for Philadelphia, but did not take with him any of the conference money. Mr. Bennett's present church was part of the village of Safe Harbor which was wholly destroyed by the recent flood in the Susquehanna River. He is married.

New Era
June 30th, 1905
DEATH OF MRS GRANT BENEDICT
Mrs. Mary Benedict, wife of Grant Benedict, died at her late home, Safe Harbor, from peritonitis, in her thirty-third year. Deceased was a daughter of William and Annie Kinsey and was born at Bethesda. She was a member of Sylvania Lodge, no 24, Shepherds of Bethlehem. Deceased is survived by her husband and two children, Florence and Ethel: her father and mother, three sisters and one brother, Ellie Barclay, of Bethesda; Alice Nicodemus, of Lancaster, Hettie and Will at home. The funeral will be held from the home of her parents, no. 449 South Duke street, on Saturday at one o�clock, interment at Greenwood cemetery.

Intelligencer
July 1, 1905
OBITUARY
Death of Martin L. Kendig
Martin L. Kendig died at the General hospital on Friday afternoon. On Tuesday last he was obliged to stop work and was taken to the hospital, where he gradually grew worse. The cause of his death was strangulated hernia. He was born at Conestoga Centre, where he lived for years, and then moved to Quarryville, where he resided for many years. He carried on the manufacture of cigars and also taught school for several terms. While in Quarryville, he devoted considerable time to music, and was one of the organizers of the band in that place. He moved to Lancaster twenty years ago and worked on different cigarmaking establishments. For the past twelve years he had been at the head of the stripping department of the S. R. Moss company's cigar factory, on North Prince street. He was a member of Vetlan Veteran castle, Knights of the Golden Eagle, the Knights of Malta and Knights of the Mystic Chain. He leaves a wife and the following children. Mrs. Laura Doerstler, wife of Jacob Doerstler, of this city: Oscar, a farmer at Ronk's station: Adam, employed in the watch factory at Jersey City: Elmer and Oliver, living in Emporia Kan.: Mrs. A. F. Troast, of Philadelphia; G. A. Kendig, of Middletown; Mrs. Jacob Latscher, Mrs. Walter Helizle, Mrs. George Pensch and Henry, of this city.
The surviving brothers and sisters of the deceased are: David, a tipstaff in the courthouse; Rev. John M. living in Ohio, and Misses Rebecca and Elizabeth, in this city. The funeral takes place on Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock from 405 West Orange street, where Mrs. Doerstler, a daughter of the deceased resides.

Theodore Roosevelt was President at this time.
New Era
July 3, 1905
Jacobs and Kendig Free
Sentences Commuted To-Day by the President on the Ground That They Were Excessive
Washington July 2 - The President has commuted the sentence of William L. Kendig and William M. Jacobs - who were sentenced in 1900 to be imprisoned for twelve years in the Eastern penitentiary at Philadelphia and to pay a fine of $5,000 for counterfeiting. The men were later transferred to the penitentiary in Atlanta. The sentences were commuted to expire immediately. The Presidents action was taken on the ground that the sentences were excessive.

Inquirer
April 24, 1906
Deaths
Sickman, Henry, Apr. 15, In Conestoga Twp., of Pneumonia, aged 74, left 5 married children.

Lancaster New Era
February 2, 1907
Big Southern End Fire
Large Barn Destroyed at Marticville
The Structure of Samuel M. Shank Burned, Together With Tobacco and Twelve Head of Stock-Supposed work of incendiary
.
The large double decker barn of Samuel M. Shank, near Sickman's Mill, in Conestoga township, on the road leading from Conestoga Centre to Marticville, was totally destroyed by fire this morning and with it all the contents, consisting of about twelve head of live stock, about 1,600 pounds of tobacco, the farming implements and some hay and straw.
The barn was a mass of flames, ready to collapse, when the tenant farmer, Emory Warfel, and family were aroused from their sleep by a neighbor, Charles Martin, who was attracted by the great blaze of the fire. The members of the family hastily dressed, but by the time they reached the barn it was impossible to attempt to rescue anything.
The barn was a fine double-decker, of modern, improved type, and contained about 1600 pounds of tobacco, hay, straw, and the farming implements. The live stock in the barn, all of which perished, consisted of twelve head, as follows: A pair of mules, two colts, five cows, and three calves. About sixty chickens also perished.
It was about 4'o'clock this morning when the fire was discovered, and it was only a short time until the large barn was a mass of ruins. It is considered strange that the fire had gained such headway before the family was aroused from their sleep, and, inasmuch as no person had been to the barn with a lantern or light, it is the general supposition that the barn was fired by an incendiary.
The loss entailed in the destruction of the tobacco, live stock and other contents will fall heavily on the tenant farmer, Emory Warfel, no insurance having been carried by him. The sympathy of the community is extended to Mr. Warfel.
On the barn, however, insurance was placed in the Manor Mutual Fire Insurance Company.

New Era
Sept. 7, 1907
Conestoga Items
New Cigar Factory to Be Built - Mystic Chainers Will Hold Picnic
Conestoga Centre, Sept. 16. - The farm of the late Christian B. Miller, containing 109 acres, was offered at public sale on the premises last Thursday, but was withdrawn at $90 per acre.
Alfred Kendig and son, Maris have purchased form Albert M. Charles the plot of ground formerly owned by Dr. B. S. Kendig, on which was erected a tobacco warehouse, which was destroyed by fire a few years ago. It is the intention of the Messrs. Kendig to erect a two-story-and-a-half frame cigar factory thereon, and they have already dug a foundation for the same. They will begin the erection of the factory at once.
The friends of Philip H. Markley will regret to learn that his is confined to his bed with an attack of typhoid fever. He is in a critical condition, and fears are entertained for his recovery.
Conestoga Castle, No. 175, A. O. K. of M. C., will hold a parade and picnic on Saturday afternoon and evening, September 21. The members of the order will meet at their hall at one o'clock p.m., when Chief Marshal Sir Knight E. H. Zercher will form them into line, and headed by the Conestoga Cornet band, will move over the follwing route: to the East Centre school house, counter march through the village to the grove of Harry G. Good, where addresses will be delivered by prominent members of the order and supper will be served to all visiting members. The committee of arrangements are Clinger Rummel, chairman: Benjamin Zercher, Oliver Youts, Benedict and Jacob Henry.

Inquirer
October 5, 1907
Married
MEISKY-WITMER, By Rev. C.E. Haupt, Oct. 3, in this city, Edgar C. Meisky of Colemanville and Mary E. Witmer of this city.

Inquirer
October 12, 1907
DIED
HUPPER, Elizabeth, wife of John and a native of Conestoga, Oct. 6, in this city, aged 65; left 3 adult children.

Inquirer
October 19, 1907
MARKLEY, Phillip H., in Conestoga Centre, Oct. 16, after 6 weeks of typhoid fever, aged 34; left wife and 2 children.

Lancaster Inquirer
May 9, 1908
Died
HICKMAN, Sue. H., in Conestoga Centre, May 2, aged 36; left 5 children.

Inquirer
May 23, 1908
MARRIED
BENDER-MILLER. By Bishop Abram Herr, at New Danville, May 14, Chas. S. Bender and Mattie W. Miller, both of Rock Hill.
HOLLOW-JOHNSON By Rev. J. W. Perkinpine, of May 20, in this city, Thomas Hollow, of Conestoga and Matilda Johnson of Bedford county.

Lancaster Intelligencer
Thursday, May 28, 1908
Daniel W. Shaub,
Daniel W. Shaub, a retired farmer of Eden, in Manheim Township, died shortly before seven o'clock this morning at his home, from paralysis. He was stricken three weeks ago. He was in the seventy-third year of his age and was a son of the late John and Eliza. Shaub. He was born near Conestoga Centre and began farming when a quite young man and retired but ten years ago. He served two enlistments in the War of the Rebellion, first as a member of Company H, of the 166th regiment, and next in Company K, of the 200th regiment and was mustered out in 1865. For a number of years he farmed in York County and later operated the Bair farm, adjoining the Eden Foundry, for the late D. H. Bair. His wife was Miss Elizabeth Gordon, and she died four years ago. He is survived by the following children: Henry K. and Joseph M. of Lancaster; Mrs. Elizabeth Buckwalter of Philadelphia; John A. of Eden and David R., of this city. A brother, John B. Shaub, lives in Havre-de-Grace and the sisters are: Mrs. Mary T. B. Shenk and Mrs. Elmira Morgan, of Lancaster; Mrs. Kate Cooney of Steelton; Mrs. Lizzie Cooney, of Rising Sun, Md.; and Mrs. Simon M. McCleery, of York. The funeral takes place on Monday afternoon, with services at the house at 1:30 and interment at the Landis Valley meeting house.

Was She the granddaughter of the John Kendig who founded Conestoga Centre?
The Inquirer
October 24, 1908
SHE�LL BE 100 YEARS OLD NEXT FRIDAY
Mrs. Henry Souders of Conestoga Centre is the Woman
She has 58 Living Descendants
Is Well Known in Manor Township Where She Lived for Very Many Years.
Born in Conestoga Township on the 30th of October, 1898, Mary Ann Souders (widow of Henry Souders) will see her 100th birthday next Friday, if she lives till that time. She has been confined to the house for the past 10 days or more, having caught a severe cold; but as her constitution is quite vigorous for one of her advanced age, she may live to see more birthdays.
The aged woman is the daughter of John and Barbara Kindig, both of whom passed away many years ago. marrying Henry Souders of Manor township in the year that saw Andrew Jackson take the presidency, she left Conestoga township and settled on a farm in the vicinity of the Spring Valley schoolhouse, in Manor. There the Souders had their home for many years, and there Henry died about 25 years ago. After his death, the widow went back to Conestoga, and there she and her granddaughter, Annie K. Souder, have been living for some years.
Mrs. Souders has 58 living descendants. Her children are Mrs. Hiram Shuman of Rossmere, Henry Sounders of Pequea township, John Souders of Safe Harbor, and Abram Souders of Rossmere. There are 19 grandchildren, 31 great-grand children and 4 great-great grand children. Mrs. Shuman is the oldest of the children, she is 71; her brother Abram, aged 62 is the youngest.

The Inquirer
December 29, 1908
Jacob B. Warner
Jacob B. Warner died on Monday evening after a long illness at the home of Bethsheba Fisher, No. 603 South Prince street, where he boarded for many years. He was 76 years old, served in the Civil war, was a pensioner and a member of Admiral Reynolds post, Grand Army of the Republic. He was known as a "Pow Wow" doctor and he was well known all over Eastern Pennsylvania in that line. He was a bachelor and has no near relatives.

New Era
December 30, 1908
DIED
WARNER, On December 29, 1908, in this city, Jacob B. Warner (an old soldier), in his seventy-fifth year.
The relatives and friends of the family (and all old soldiers of the Rebellion) are respectfully invited to attend the funeral from the residence of Mrs. Besheba Fisher, No. 503 South Prince Street, on Thursday afternoon at three o�clock. Services by Rev. D. E. Haupt., D.D. Interment at Woodward Hill Cemetery.

Intelligencer
January 1, 1909
MURDER MAY BE THE RESULT
Frank Martin, Aged 13 Years, of Safe Harbor, in Critical Condition.
Milton Henry, it is alleged, Hurled the Boy Against a Stove, When He Attempted to Save His Father, B. S. Martin,- from a Beating Occurred Christmas Night, and Almost All the Time Since Then the Lad Has Been Unconscious - Villagers Afraid To Take Action.
Frank Martin, aged thirteen years, lies at his home, in Safe Harbor, in a critical condition, probably dying, as the result of injuries inflicted , it is said, by Milton Henry, of Safe Harbor.
Although the affair in which the boy was hurt so badly that he may die occurred on Christmas, it has been kept quiet, and no suits have been preferred against the man who may find himself guilty of murder: for the attending physician, Dr. M. T. Reeder, of Millersville, this morning said young Marin is in an extremely critical condition. The fact that no action has been taken in the case is said to be due to the fear among residents of the village that Henry and his brother Grant, who is implicated, may take vengeance on any person who informs upon them. The brothers apparently have terrorized the entire community. The case is remarkable in several respects, and certainly invites the attention of the district attorney.
Owing to the circumstances mentioned above, the exact facts are difficult to ascertain; but as obtained by the "Intelligencer" from several reliable persons, they are as follows:
On Christmas night the Henry brothers were in the hotel, at Safe Harbor, kept by S. S. Martin, father of the injured boy. Grant Henry who is about 30 years old, became involved in a quarrel with Mr. Martin, his brother Milton came to the assistance, and in the row that followed, the hotelman was knocked down. As he lay on the floor his son Frank, pluckily came to his assistance. Then, it is stated, Milton Henry seized the boy and hurled him violently against a stove that stood in the barroom.
The boy became unconscious, and remained in that condition for two days before regaining his senses. Then he had only a brief interval of consciousness and for the greater part of the time since last Friday he has been unconscious, Dr. Reeder says he is suffering from concussion of the brain.

The Inquirer
January 2, 1909
DIED
ALEXANDER, Carrie, wife of Harvey R., at Conestoga Centre, Dec. 21, in her 40th year; left 4 small children.
WARNER, Jacob B., a Union solder for 4 1/2 years, Dec. 28, in this city, in his 76th year; was a native of Conestoga Centre.

Daily Intelligencer
January 6, 1909
HENRY BROTHERS ARRESTED
Constable Lollar Serves Warrant On Men Who Terrorized Safe Harbor
As a result of the publication in the "Intelligencer" last Friday calling the attention of District Attorney Johnson to the serious, and perhaps fatal, injury inflicted upon Frank Martin, aged thirteen years of Safe Harbor, on Christmas night by Milton and Grant Henry, the Henry brothers were arrested to-day by Constable Al Lollar, of this city. They have been prosecuted before Alderman Doebler for felonious assault and battery. Young Martin is still in a critical condition; pneumonia having developed, and in event of his death, a more serious charge will be brought against the Henrys.
It will be remembered that the boy went to the assistance of his father, who went to the assistance of his father, who was being beaten by Grant Henry, when Milton Henry, it is alleged, grabbed him and threw him violently against a stove. For two days the boy was unconscious, and for more than a week he had only brief intervals of consciousness.
Residents of Safe Harbor were afraid to proceed against the brothers, fearing they would wreak vengeance upon any person giving information against them, and the affair was kept quite until the "Intelligencer" published the facts.

Bowers-Martin
Jacob M. Bowers, of Safe Harbor, and Miss Martha H. Martin, of Conestoga Centre, were married at noon on Tuesday at the parsonage of St. Paul's M.E. Church, by Rev. J. W. Perknpine.

Daily Intelligencer
January 25, 1909
William A. Vierling
William A. Vireling died on Saturday evening at the house where he boarded, No. 309 North Shippen street. He had been sick for about ten days, from an affection of the heart. He was 25 years old, and a son of the later Frederick Vierling. He was born at Safe Harbor, but had lived in Lancaster for some time, and worked at tobacco packing in different warehouses. His sister and brothers are: Mrs. Joseph J. Wunsch, Mrs. Samuel Jones, of this city; Mrs. Martha McWilliam, of Safe Harbor; Frank Vierling, of Smithville, and Joseph R. Vierling, of York county. The funeral will take place to-morrow afternoon at two o�clock with services in Mt. Zion church, Conestoga Centre.

Intelligencer
January 27, 1909
Barbara Stehman
Barbara, the 5 year old daughter of Henry S. and Adaline Stehman, died this morning at the home of her parents in Conestoga Centre, from pneumonia. Her funeral will take place on Friday afternoon, with services at the New Danville Mennonite church at 2 o�clock.

The Inquirer
January 30, 1909
DIED
GOOD, Sheridan F., son of Levi, in Conestoga Centre, Jan. 28 of dropsy, after very long illness, aged 40 and single.
VIERLING, Wm. A., son of the late Frederick Vierling of Save Harbor, Jan. 23, in this city, of heart disease, aged 25; interred at Conestoga Centre.
STEHMAN, Barbara, daughter of Henry S., at Conestoga Centre, Jan. 27, of pneumonia, aged 5.

Daily Intelligencer
April 5, 1909
OBITUARY
Samuel McLaughlin
Samuel McLaughlin, a former citizen of Conestoga township died very suddenly at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Robert Erb, in Mt. Nebo, on Sunday morning. He was preparing to accompany his son-in-law to church when he was taken with a stroke and his death followed in twenty-five minutes. The deceased lived at Conestoga Centre for many years and was the collector of taxes for Conestoga township. He was 74 year old and of late, and since the death of his wife, he had been living retired at the home of his daughter. He leaves the following children: Joseph, of Leola; Mrs. Clayton Hill, of Lancaster; Harry of Phoenixville; Mrs. Robert Erb, of Mt. Nebo; Mrs. Laura Folk, of New York, and Frank, of New York. The funeral takes place from Mr. Erb�s home at 12 o�clock on Wednesday, with services and interment at the River Corner church at 1:30.

Inquirer
May 1, 1909
DIED
DAILY, Amanda, widow of Martin H., born at Shenk's Ferry, died Apr. 28, in this city, where she lived for 36 years, of pneumonia, aged 69, six weeks after husband's death, left 4 adult children.

The Inquirer
May 15, 1909
MARRIED
RADCLIFFE-GROSSMAN, By Rev. H. S. Shelley; May 10, at Willow Street, Benj. Radcliffe of Baumgardner and Gertrude M. Grossman of Safe Harbor.

HEINEY-TRISSLER - By Rev. J. W. Perkinpine, May 13, in this city, Charles Heiney of Martic and Florence M. Trissler of Conestoga.

The Inquirer
May 22, 1909
DIED
URBAN, Samuel J., a veteran of the Fiftieth Penn�a regt., born in Conestoga twp., died May 16, in this city, where he lived for 40 years in his 72d year; wife survives, interred at Millersville.

BOYER, Noah, a Conestoga twp., farmer, May 19, at St. Joseph�s Hospital, aged 40; left wife and 4 children.

Lancaster Inquirer
May 23, 1909
MARRIED
BENDER-MILLER. By Bishop Abram Herr, at New Danville, May 14, Chas. S. Bender and Mattie W. Miller, both of Rock Hill.
HOLLOW-JOHNSON. By Rev. J. W. Perkinpine, May 20, in this city, Thomas Hollow of Conestoga and Matilda Johnson of Bedford County
Daily Intelligencer
June 2, 1909
OBITUARY
Michael M. Kreider
Michael M. Kreider died suddenly at his home in Conestoga Centre, at two o�clock this morning from heart disease. He was in the enjoyment of good health on Saturday and worked all of that day getting his tobacco ground ready for planting. On Sunday he complained of not feeling well and he was no better on Monday and remained in the house, but not confined to bed. He retired at his usual hour on Monday night, became very ill about midnight and died two hours later. He was 71 years old, a life long resident of Conestoga township, and a member of the Mennonite church. His wife, who was Miss Elizabeth Good before marriage, and three children survive: Joseph M, and George M. Kreider, Conestoga Centre; Mrs. Mary Groff, Pequea, and John M., Manor. His funeral will take place on Saturday morning with services at the house at nine o�clock and at ten o�clock at the River Corner Mennonite church.

Lancaster Inquirer
June 5, 1909
Died
Kreider, Michael M., a Conestoga Centre farmer June 2, of heart disease, after 2 days illness, aged 70; left wife and son.
Kreider, Peter, a Union soldier, May 31 (Decoration Day), at Safe Harbor, found dead on a couch on which he had sat down to rest, aged 70, left wife, who has been committed to bed for a year.
Kepperling, Abraham R., born at Safe Harbor, died at Ephrata June 2, aged 60; left wife and married daughter; interment next Monday at Conestoga Centre.

New Era
October 29, 1910
CONESTOGA CENTRE REJOICES
Townsfolk Have Jubilation Over Completion of the Village Sidewalk
The citizens of Conestoga Centre held a public jubilation on Friday evening, in which virtually all the residence united, to celebrate the completion of the fine concrete sidewalk that now lines the street of the village for a distance of two miles. They got out the band and paraded up and down the pavement to express their happiness at the much-appreciated and greatly-needed improvement.
The final meeting of the committee that had charge of the work of constructing the sidewalk was also held on Friday evening. The auditing committee, composed of A. J. Zercher and A. S. Benedict, went over the accounts, finding that the receipts were $1,934.60 and the expenditures $1,851.40, leaving a balance of $83.20. This sum was turned over to Franklin Warfel, who was appointed to keep the walk in repair. All of the committees were then discharged.

The Lancaster Inquirer
Saturday, April 15, 1911

PREACHER WHO WENT WRONG IS NOW DEAD
Shot by the Woman Whom He Betrayed, ex-Rev Joseph A. Bennett is No More
"HE DIED AS THE FOOL DIETH"
Formerly Had Charge at Safe Harbor, Conestoga Centre and Colemanville
Eloped With Young Parishioner There

Seven years ago readers of The Inquirer were told about the doings of Rev. Joseph A. Bennett of Conestoga Centre. Two years before that, when the Philadelphia Conference preachers assembled in the Columbia Methodist church, for the annual work of their organization, Bennett, who was then stationed at Lansford, failed to answer the roll call, and his non-appearance caused inquirery to be made. It was learned that he had left his home for Columbia on March 18, having in his possession the sum of $300. which he was to turn over to conference. He never reached Columbia and this caused rumors of foul play and suicide. Several weeks later he returned to his home a wreck in mind and body. He gave as an excuse that he was taken ill while enroute to Columbia, and had wandered over the country. His mind was apparently blank as to his wanderings.
A Committee had been appointed by conference to look up his record. It was found to be clear, and at the following meeting of conference in Philadelphia he was again taken up and appointed to the circuit comprising Safe Harbor, Conestoga Centre and Colemanville.
Although a married man with five small children, Bennett's name soon became connected with that of a young woman who resided near Shenk's Ferry and was a member of the pastor's congregation at Colemanville. When the next session of conference came around in March, 1904, Bennett left his home for Philadelphia as he had two years before left Lanford, ostensibly to attend the sessions of the governing body. When he boarded the train at Lancaster for Philadelphia his traveling companion was this girl, who it was said at the time had $1700 in her possession.
That was the last seen of either by their friends and the sequel of their elopement has just reached friends and relatives at Safe Harbor.
Some years after the departure of Bennett and the girl it was learned that they were living in Chicago, were members of the Salvation Army and doing evangelistic work in the slums.
Finally tiring of her, Bennett deserted her and married another girl. The next heard of the wayward minister, after deserting his second wife, was that he had landed in Los Angeles, Cal., where he had taken up evangelistic work with the Salvation Army.
Finally he married a young woman member of the army. When she learned of her husband's former episodes, she fired a bullet into his brain, killing his instantly. no further facts concerning the tragedy have been received. Soon after Bennett's elopement his first wife secured a divorce.
Some time after the elopement the Colemanville girl returned home and was forgiven.

The Inquirer
July 29, 1911
MARRIED
WARFEL-LINES. By Bishop Abraham B. Herr, July 15, at New Danville, Elmer G. Warfel of Safe Harbor and Minnie H. Lines of Millersville.
The Inquirer
November 11, 1911
DEATH�S SUDDEN SUMMONS
Mrs. Catharine Hess died suddenly on Saturday evening at her home in Conestoga Centre, while preparing supper, expiring with a single gasp, seated in a chair at the kitchen table. Valvular disease of the heart was the cause of death. He was 70 years old, the wife of David H. Hess, a member of the Mennonite church and a daughter of the late Christian E. Miller. Two sons survive, Abram M., of Conestoga centre and Maris of West Willow. Abram Miller of Millersville is a brother. Her sisters are Martha and Mary Miller of Conestoga, Mrs. Jonas Shertzer and Mrs. Abram B. Miller of Millersville.

Lancaster New Era
November 17, 1911
Conestoga
Conestoga, Nov. 17. - The funeral of Mrs. Smith, on Monday, was very largely attended. She was a very highly-respected old lady. She was the mother of thirteen children and left fifty-two grandchildren and forty-eight great-grandchildren. her husband has been dead twenty years, and she was eighty-one years, two months and fourteen days old.
The sale of John Stegewetz, held on Tuesday, was well attended and good prices were realized.
Comrade Benj. F. Hookey inspected Capt. George H. Hess Post, no 571, G.A.R. last week, and found the post in excellent condition. At the same time the following nominations were made for officers: Commander, Noah Wade; Senior Vice, W. W. Aument; Junior Vice, Amos Dabler; Chaplain, Cyrus Gontnor; O.D. Benj. McMullen; Q.M., Benj. F. Hookey; Surgeon, Mathias Peters; Instructor, Tobias Finefrock; O.G.H.K. Ganze; Delegate to State Encampment, Benj. F. Hookey; Alternate, Benj. McMullen; Trustees, H. K. Ganse, George W. Kise and Amos Dabler.
Henry Hess has purchased seven acres of land fronting on the public road from Conestoga Centre to Rock Hill from the estate of Christian B. Miller.

An Industry for Conestoga
Buildings in Course of Erection for a Burial Casket Factory.
The New Era Conestoga correspondent says:
Messrs. Charles & Good are erecting two buildings adjoining their warehouse to be used for manufacturing burial caskets. One will be a drying room, 20x36 feet, and the other an engine and boiler room, 13x30 feet. A part of the warehouse will also be used. There will be a dynamo installed to furnish electricity to light the buildings. The buildings will be one story in height. It is the intention of the promoters, Mr. William H. Wagor, of Indiana, and M. Pritchard, who are connected with the Computing Scale Company, of Lancaster, together with Messrs Charles and Good, to give employment to about twenty hands in the manufacture of caskets.
It will be a long-felt want supplied, as we have no industries in the village except two small cigar factories. There would be a good chance for several more, as hands can easily be secured for the manufacture of cigars at moderate wages. What this community needs is someone with capital and some energy to make it a thriving village. It is a healthy and sanitary place to locate and is close to the York Furnace trolley line and only nine miles from Lancaster.

New Era
September 18, 1912
BARN DESTROYED BY FIRE
Large Structure on Frank Warfel�s Farm, in Conestoga, Burned Tuesday
The large barn on the farm owned by Frank Warfel in Conestoga township, about two miles south of Conestoga Center, was completely destroyed by fire on Tuesday afternoon and the flames also wiped out the corn crib and the pig pen.
The farm is occupied by Mr. Warfel�s son, Amos. The barn was substantial structure of sufficient dimensions to provide for a farm of bout 100 acres. It is supposed that the fire originated from children who ere playing in the entry with matches. No live stock was burned but all of the season�s wheat and hay crops, together with an acre of tobacco, as well as the implements were consumed.
The elder Warfel carried insurance on the buildings in the Manor and Lititz Mutual companies.

New Era
September 27, 1912
CONESTOGA
Conestoga - Sept. 27. - Six young men who were formerly members of the Conestoga Centre band, are now playing in famous musical organizations in different parts of the United States. John W. Urban, Jr., is a clarinetist in the world-wide known Sousa band and is now touring with it. John Flinchbaugh is a clarinetist in the Pennsylvania Railroad band at Tyrone, Pa. Chester Aston is a cornetist in the Los Angeles Symphony Orchestra. Edwin C. Urban is a trombone player in the West Philadelphia band. D. R. Cauldwell is a snare drummer in the United States band at Fort Du Pont, Del., and Daniel Eckman is a member of the United States band at San Francisco, California. Miss Esther Kendig, daughter of Dr. B. S. Kendig, one of Lancaster�s leading sopranos, is also a former resident of the village, where she was born and grew into womanhood.
This beautiful village, with its well kept homes, has burnished an unusual number of clergymen, musicians and teachers. All but tow of the Conestoga township schools are taught at the present time by residents of the village. It supports three churches and three prosperous Sunday-schools. Handicapped as the place has been for the want of railroad facilities, it does, however, considerable amount of business and is noted for the large amount of the fine fruit and vegetables it sends to the Lancaster and other markets.
Great care is given to the growing of fine peaches, grapes, strawberries and other fruit, and the very fact of it coming from old Conestoga seems to be a guarantee of its quality. J. R. Yentzer�s evaporated dried corn has a reputation second to none, and the supply has never been equal to the demand. Harry A. Good and A. C. Charles, two of our most enterprising men, after a considerable amount of trouble, have succeeded in getting under way a casket factory that promises to be quite an industry in the village. They should have the support and encouragement of every one who has the interest of the village at heart.
The west end of the town is having quite a building boom, among those who are creating new residences or are greatly improving their homes, being John Burkhart, who is building a dwelling house alongside of the store building he recently purchased from John Wirth. Ezra Hackman has finished and moved into a fine residence a few yards west of the U.B. church. And Martin Gautz and H. R. Cauldwell are building new residence. Albert Henry, the popular tobacco buyer for Otto Eiseniohr & Bro., has greatly improved and beautified his fine residence. John Z. Wade is about completing a fine tinsmith shop and barn. Jacob Henry and others have made or are making improvements to their homes.
A trolley road through the village would soon make it an ideal country town, and it is certainly worthy the attention of the men who are at the head of the splendid trolley system in Lancaster county.

The Inquirer
November 11, 1912
Dr. Urban is No More
A Well Known Citizen Passed Away Suddenly on Sunday Evening
Seven sons were born to Joseph R. Urban and wife at Conestoga Centre many years ago. Six of them served in the Union army. One of them, Dr. B. F. W., who was well known in city and country, died suddenly on Sunday evening at his home, No. 306 West Orange street, at eight o�clock. He was attacked with heart disease and Dr. J.L. Mowery was summoned. He rallied form that attack but had a second one an hour later, which resulted in death. He had been in failing health for sever years and was 66 years old.
When only a boy of sixteen Benjamin enlisted in Company D, First regiment, Pennsylvania Reserves, and served through the war. He participated in a number of big engagements, one of which was the battle of Gettysburg. Toward the close of the war he was the assistant to the physician of the regiment and this lead him to choose is profession. After the war he taught school in Conestoga. Later he entered the University of Pennsylvania medical department, being graduated in 1858.
Dr. Urban did not get a chance to practice much, as his brother, John W. Urban, became clerk of quarter sessions court and chose Dr. Urban as his deputy. Later Dr. Urban was elected two terms as clerk of quarter sessions; and served as deputy clerk in the same office under Clerks Killian, Fry, Clair and Eaby. Dr. Urban was then chosen tipstaff, a position which he filled for a number of years. Still later he was chose as court crier for room No. 2, and this position he held to the time of his death. During the time he was deputy clerk in the office of the clerk of quarter sessions court he conducted a drug store on South Queen street, below Conestoga, and also had a dry goods store adjoining the drug store.
Besides his wife, who was Katherine A. Hess of Conestoga centre, these children survive: Mary A. and James, at home; Mrs. John H. Reese, Lancaster; Frank G., and Mrs. Bertha K. Miller, at home; Mrs. Emma C. Smith, Lancaster; Mrs. Clayton Herman, of New Haven Conn.; Mabel F. and Harold H., at home. These brothers also survive: John W., Conestoga Centre; Rev. A.L. Urban, Lansdale; Abner, Covington O., and Jose3ph, Harrisburg.

New York Times
August 22, 1913
Hebble
At his late residence, Kingsbridge, New York City, on August 19th, Christian B. Hebble,in his 75th year. Funeral servicesat residence 2:00 Pm, August 22. Internment at Woodlawn Cemetery

New Era
December 23, 1913
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE
Bankruptcy Proceedings
In the United States District Court, Philadelphia, on Monday, creditors filed a petition to have the Conestoga Casket Company, of Conestoga Center, adjudged an involuntary bankrupt. The petitioners and the amounts of their claims are as follows: J. W. Fehl, $391.90; John E. Lefever, $75; A. M. Stauffer & Co., $661. Recently, an execution was issued against the Casket Company by Theo. Tiedeman & Sons for $380.05. The Sheriff made a levy on the property and the sale was advertised to take place to-morrow, but the bankruptcy proceedings will serve as a stay of the Sheriff's sale.

OFFICERS of POST 571 ELECTED.
At a regular stated meeting of Captain George H. Hess Post, No 571, G.A.R., of Safe Harbor, the following officers were elected: P.C., Benjamin McMullen; SVC, Amos Dabler, Jr.; V.C., Mathias Peters; Adjutant, D. M. Kendig; Quartermaster, Benjamin F. Hookey; Surgeon, William M. Ament; Chaplin, C. S. Gontner; O.D., H. K. Gantz; Patriotic Inspector, Benjamin Landis; O.G. Godfried Grossman; S. M., George M. Kise; Q.M. S., Tobias Finefrock. These officers will be installed the first meeting night in January, 1914.

Until I saw this reference to Paul Trissler acquiring a horse for his R.F.D. route I had assumed that rural delivery of the mail hadn't started until the Roosevelt Administration but a check on the internet suggests that there was some rural delivery of the mail in selected areas this early.
Daily Intelligencer
December 26, 1913
SAFE HARBOR NEWS
Houses Being Torn Down - Diphtheria Spreading in The Community
SAFE HARBOR, Dec. 26, - The old company houses, once owned by the Phoenixville Iron company, at Safe Harbor, have been town down. The Penn Water Power company has brought this tract of land. Diphtheria in Community
Edward Martin, of Rockville, has a severe attack of diphtheria. There are several other minor cases through this section.
Property News
Mrs. John Keen of Conestoga who recently sold her property to Martin Geaver, has bought a lot from Henry Warfle in Conestoga and will erect a house upon it.
G.A.R. Election
G.A.R. post No. 571, met at the old Presbyterian hall at Safe Harbor and elected officers on Tuesday.
Church Affairs
The M.E. church at Safe Harbor distributed Christmas gifts to the children on Sunday.
In the M.E. church last Thursday evening Rev. J. W. Meminger of Lancaster, showed lantern slides representing Biblical days and scenes
.
Operator Transferred.
Harrison Brady, of Safe Harbor, operator on extra service on the P.R. R. has been transferred to regulate at the Creswell tower.
Holiday Notes
John Warfle, of Lancaster, spent the Christmas holidays with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Warfle, of this place.
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Caldwell, of Delaware City, are home attending funeral of his wife's mother, Mrs. Benjamin Henry, of Conestoga Centre, and will spend the holidays at home.
Personals.
Jacob Murry sold Paul Trissler, of Conestoga, a fine horse, which he will used in the R.F.D. service.
Mrs. Landis Caldwell, of Tyrone, is visiting her husband's parents Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Caldwell, of Conestoga Centre.
Miss Verna Ellse is spending a few days, visiting friends in Columbia.
I believe the earlier fire was February 2, 1907, see that date.
New Era
December 31, 1913
AN EARLY MORNING FIRE
Large Barn Near New Danville Destroyed
Last Summer�s Crops Burned in Destruction of Property of Henry Harnish - Live Stock Saved.
Loss Placed at $3,000.
Early this morning the large bank barn on the farm of Henry Harnish of New Danville, was destroyed by fire of unknown origin. The farm is located half a mile south of Conestoga Center, and the tenant farmer is Edward Rankin. With the barn were destroyed the summer�s crops and some of the agricultural implements, most of the latter being in the wagon house, which was not destroyed. Connected with the barn was a tobacco shed, which was also burned, together with four acres of 1913 tobacco.
During the day tobacco stripping operations were carried on, but there was no fire in the building when the workers stopped for the night. The blaze did not start in the tobacco shed, for early arrivals on the scene say the flames, when first observed, were in the upper part of the barn. The fire must have been of incendiary origin, or else was started by a tramp lodger taking a smoke, a very early smoke, if such was the case, for the flames were discovered about 2:30 o�clock. On account of the our, not many people arrived at the fire, but there was enough to save the live stock, ten head. A number of chickens roasted to death. The flames soon reduced barn and tobacco shed in a smoking ruin. The loss is about $3,000.
Mr. Harnish bought the farm last November from Samuel Shenk. The barn replaced one destroyed by fire only about six years ago.

Adolph Segal was a German immigrant who came to Philadelphia with limited funds but managed to develop and improve wax paper, and raised the money to acquire a mill to produce it. His wax paper business was very successful but he became involved in other business which were not as successful. In our area he was involved with the Magnetic Ore Mines near Sickman�s Mill and he built the railroad from those mines to Safe Harbor, to connect to the C.& P.D. Railroad. Many thought the railroad cost more than the mines would ever generate. He was also behind the Match Factory at Safe Harbor.
The Inquirer
September 26, 1914
SEGAL�S INSANE
The Promoter of Martic Ore Mines is in an Asylum
Adolph Segal of Philadelphia, boomer of ore mines below Safe Harbor and furnaces at Chickies, some years ago, has been pronounced insane by two physicians. The man whose operations brought about the failure of the Real Estate Trust Company a dozen years ago, the suicide of its president, Frank K,. Hipple, and indictments against the Sugar Trust has been taken to the State Hospital for the Insane at Norristown to spend the last years of this life. his physician says he will die within a year, and may not live longer than two months.

Lancaster New Era
January 7, 1915
Conestoga Fire Engine Meeting
The citizens of Conestoga and vicinity will hold a meeting on Monday evening, at the Central Graded school house for the purpose of organizing a fire engine company, with a officers, directrosr, fire chief, assistant, etc. Every citizen is cordially invited to be present and take an active part in effecting the transaction previously mentioned.

The Inquirer
October 30, 1915
FIRST CHANGE IN 100 YEARS
Conestoga Centre, whose people have been getting their mail once a day by afternoon stage, is about to get a morning mail also. New Danville people will be recipients of the same welcome service.

Lancaster Inquirer
January 6, 1917
Died
Duke, Annie, widow of Jacob, stricken with apoplexy while walking home from church on Tuesday night (Jan. 2) at Lancaster, died at St. Joseph's Hopsital Thursday, (January 4th), aged 78, leaving 11 married children,; will be buried tomorrow afternoon at Conestoga Centre, her former home.
Zercher, Reba, daughter of Frank and Mary at Conestoga Centre Jan. 4, of dropsy, ages 29.

Lancaster Inquirer
January 13, 1917
Died
Markley, Benj. F., one of the supervisors of Conestoga township, until he removed to Lancaster a year ago, died Jan. 10, in his 66th year, leaving wife, and 3 children, was buried at Millersville. One of his sons is a student in aviation at the U.S. army post at San Diago, Ca.

Lancaster Inquirer
April 7, 1917
Died
Erb, Franklin W., born at Conestoga Centre, died at Mt. Nebo March 29, aged 56, leaving wife and one son. For many years he conducted the Tucquan mill.

The Inquirer
June 8, 1918
Obituary Notes
John W. Urban of Conestoga Centre who died at St. Joseph�s Hospital on Saturday evening was one of the best known Civil War veterans in the county and one of The Inquirer�s oldest friends. Like his brother, the, the late Dr. B. F. W. Urban of Lancaster, he served throughout the war and was a fruitful writer on war subjects. he was the aurhto of "Battle Field and Prison Pen., " a work that had a large sale and is a narrative of his own experiences as a soldier and a prisoner in rebel hands. He was in his 76th year and is survived by five children - Mrs. George W. Pries, and Mrs. Emma Harry of Lancaster, Edwin C. of Aldan, Pa. and Alfred T. of Philadelphia and John W., in the U.S. naval service. Interment took place at Conestoga Centre, his life long home.

The Inquirer
August 3, 1918
Obituary Notes
MRS. J. LLOYD NEILL, formerly of Colemanville, July 21, at Lancaster after a year�s illness, aged 33, survived by her husband.
MRS. ABRAM SAWYER (widow), at the home of of Ms. Benjamin F. Smith, one of her four daughters, at Conestoga, July 25, in her 88th year; left six married children.

The Inquirer
August 3, 1918
A Former Safe Harbor Girl had leg Cut Off by a Trolley Car Monday at York
Elsie Irene Else, daughter of William Else and formerly of Safe Harbor, died in a York hospital on Wednesday, three days after she was dreadfully injured by a trolley car in the square at York, while she and her sister and a girl friend were waiting for a car; to ride home. A "green" motorman ran another car onto an unused switch and right into the girls. Miss Else was thrown under the car and one leg was taken off at the hip; she was dragged fifty or more feet before the motorman could stop his car
.
Soldiers from Camp Colt, Gettysburg, who came along just after this accident, lifted the car from the victim and helped to gather up the fifteen or more men and women who fainted when the accident happened.
Obituary Notes
Mrs. Abram Sawyer (widow), at the home of Mrs. Benjamin F. Smith, one of her four daughters at Conestoga July 25th in her 88th year; left six married children.

The Inquirer
August 31, 1918
OBITUARY NOTES
Mrs. Henry Will (widow) formerly of Safe Harbor, August 25 at Lancaster, after long illness, in her 78th year; left two married children.

The Inquirer
September 14, 1918
DIED
William F. Gainer, at Colemanville Sept. 12, in his 78th year, leaving six children and 26 grandchildren.
Frederick Grossman of Safe Harbor, at the General Hosptial, Sept. 12, of apoplexy, aged 87.

The Inquirer September 21, 1918 DIED
FREDERICK GROSSMAN of Safe Harbor, who just two weeks before was found unconscious at his home after a stroke of apoplexy, died Sept. 13 at the General Hospital in his 83d year: is survived by his wife and nine married children and was buried at Conestoga Center.
ADELINE J. FEHL, wife of wife of George J., in Conestoga township Sept. 14, in her 74th year; left two children, Harry L., and Mrs. Nora F. Shuman
ELIZABETH S. SHAEFFER, wife of Frederick, at Jersey City, N.J., Sept 13, aged 44: was buried at Colemanville from the home of her brother, Jacob B. Sigman.

Sterling Gazette
Sept. 14, 1920
ELI HESS CALLED TO HIS REWARD
Pioneer Contractor Passes Away In This City Thursday P.M.
Eli C. Hess, pioneer contractor of Whiteside and Lee county and the best known man in the building trades in Sterling, passed to his reward of a well spent and useful life Thursday, September 14, at 12:30 o'clock noon at the home of his niece, Mrs. Oscar Eversole, on East Fourth street.
Though he had not been in good health for some time past, Mr. Hess was well known to the people of this community throughout a generation past as a man so full of vital energy that it is hard to realize that eternal rest has succeeded the valued labors of his busy life. A cancerous affection on his hand caused him considerable annoyance and suffering for a considerable time before the affliction affected his general health, which gradually became less able to resist the encroachment of age. It was less than two weeks ago that he was confined to his bed and even when weakness overcame him he suffered but little, the final struggle following days of rest, with his genial nature revealed in smiles of welcome to the many friends who called at his bedside. His sickroom was kept bright with flowers that testified to the esteem in which he was held in both city and countryside.
Lancaster county, Pa., the home of so many Whiteside pioneers was the birthplace of Mr. Hess on August 11, 1849. There he received his schooling and grew into robust years of youth before he came west with his family. His parents, Michael and Magadela Hess, settled in Penrose and there about 45 years ago, the son began his career as a carpenter, after helping on the farm for several years. An incessant worker, he followed his trade and profession with tireless industry and marked a life stretching beyond the allotted threescore years and ten with the erection of houses and public buildings that stand as a monument to his skill and honest workmanship. Among such, the Sterling township High School and the Sterling National Bank are notable.
On January 2, 1879, Mr. Hess was married to Miss Clara Huber in Sterling. They made their home for a time near Penrose and later, were esteemed residents of Prairieville for ten years. Affection for that favored locality always remained with Mr. Hess, and one of the last requests he made was that he be laid to rest in the little cemetery on the edge of Lee county at Prairieville.
Beside the wife who so faithfully and helpfully shared the duties and purposes of his lifetime, two of the four children born to them survive their father. They are Fred R. Hess, Berwyn, Ill., and Earl L. Hess of Van Petten, Ill., one daughter, Nora May, died at the age of three and one son, Arthur H., died a year ago, August 3.
Of the family of twelve brothers and sisters, six brothers and three sisters survive as follows: Zachariah Hess of Penrose, Jeremiah Hess of Penrose, Jacob Hess of Kansas, Manuel Hess of Penrose, Ephriam Hess of Dixon, Theodore Hess of Elgin, Mrs. Ripley Stauffer of Penrose, Mrs. Emma Mellinger of Penrose and Mrs. Jacob Trouth of DIxon. Six grandchildren also survive.
Mr. Hess was for many years a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and in recent years was an enthusiastic member of the Elks. He was a companionable man, respected and popular among his associates in all walks of life.
The members of the bereaved family, who have lost a husband and father who gave and recieved more than the usual meed of affection, have the sympathy of the community which lost one of the constructive personalities that have helped to make it what it is.
The funeral will be held from the late home, 705 East Fourth street, at 2 o'clock, and from the St. John's Lutheran church 2:30 o'clock. Rev. E.C. Harris, pastor of the church will conduct the rites. Members of the Sterling Lodge of Elks, of which the decedent was a member, will act as pallbearers. They will be S.M. Coe, John W. Farrell, A.A. Wolfersperger, W.T. Galt, S.G. Crawford and G.E. Bishop. The Elks will have charge of the service at the Prairieville cemetery, where the body will be taken for burial.

Intelligencer
Jan. 14, 1926
Washington Martin
Washington Martin, 94, colored, died yesterday morning at 10:30 O�clock at the home of Mr. And Mrs. Maris Green, Tucquan, Martic township. He was a veteran of the Civil War, having enlisted September 21, 1863 from Conestoga township, under Captain William B. Clark, as a private in Col K. 27th Regiment, United States Calvary. He took part in various battles and was honorably discharged at Brownsville, Texas. He was a member of Captain Hess Post, no 571, G.A.R. of Safe Harbor. One son, Joseph, of Kennett Square, Chester county, survives. Funeral services will be held Saturday morning at 9 o�clock from his late home with burial in the African M.E. cemetery at Conestoga Centre.

The Sterling Gazette
February 24, 1927
Emeline (Hess) Mellinger
In Holy Scripture we are taught that the last enemy to be destroyed is death. Isaiah saw in the distant future the conqueror enemy and declared, "Death is swallowed up in Victory." Our loved ones are passing from us in this assurance. But there for a special stillness in the tone of our voice, when we say -Mother is gone-. Mother, that sweetest earthly name, perhaps the first word that we learned to speak, the one to whom we first looked for love, who knew all about our ills and pains, when only a touch from her hand or a word from her lips would help. But time carries us on, and today we lay aside that which is earthly of our earthly treasure hoping to meet again in that better land in the presence of our Savior and Lord.
Emeline (Hess) Mellinger daughter of Michael and Magdalena Hess was born in Conestoga Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, March 3, 1854. She passed away at her country home north of Sterling February 24, 1927, at the age of 73 years, 11 months and twenty-one days.
She was of a family of twelve children, nine brothers and two sisters. When she was thirteen years of age her parents came west, locating on a farm in Jordan Township. They were among the pioneer settlers and always resided in this locality. On July 19, 1874, she was married to Henry K. Mellinger, to this union three children were born, Mrs. F. K. Barge, Benjamin Mellinger and Mrs. Anna Bare, all residing in Jordan Township. Her husband preceded her in death December 12, 1919. Three brothers, Michael, Benjamin and Eli have preceded her in death.
She leaves to mourn her departure her children before mentioned, nine grandchildren, six brothers and two sisters. They are Ephriam and Emanuel of Dixon, Zachariah of Sterling, Jeremiah of Lyndon, Jacob of Spearville, Kansas, Theodore of Elgin, Mrs. Mary Stauffer of Sterling and Mrs. Jacob Trouth of Dixon.
In 1882 she with her husband united with the Mennonite church to which faith she remained true until the time of her death.
Mrs. Mellinger was unassuming in her disposition ever ready to lend a helping hand to those that were in need about her. To know her was to regard her as a Christian woman in whom the spirit of Christ was very manifest. Very truthfully could she say with Paul, "For to me to live is Christ to die is gain." If we shall know each other in heaven (and I believe we will) she today is in the presence of Christ her Savior and the loved ones gone before.
Oh, Thank God for such a faith and such a hope.

Dixon Evening Telegraph
Feb 29, 1928
Ephraim P. Hess
Ephraim P. Hess, son of Michael and Mary Magdalena Hess, was born in Lancaster, Pa., June 8, 1861 and passed away in his home in Dixon, Ill., Friday morning, February 24th, 1928, aged 66 years, 8 months and 16 days. For about a year he had suffered from a complication of diseases which eventually caused his death. Forty-four years ago last Friday, the day of his death, Mr. Hess was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Warfel, at Lancaster, Pa. To that union eight children were born, two daughters having preceded the father in death. The following survive; his widow, two daughters, Mrs. Arthur Freeman of Chicago, Mrs. Myrtle Howe of Aurora; four sons, Charles of Aurora, Ephraim Jr. of Omaha, Neb., Carl and Lee of Dixon; five brothers and two sisters. The funeral services was conducted at the home, 236 W. Everett St. Monday afternoon at 2 o�clock, with Pastor S.B. Quincer of the Bethel church in charge. Burial was made in Oakwood cemetery.

During the construction of the Safe harbor Dam, the State Police established a temporary substation at Conestoga Centre. The construction of the dam during the depression brought workers from all over the country.
Intelligencer
September 29, 1930
SAFE HARBOR WORKER HURT DURING FIGHT, THREE UNDER ARREST
One man is in St. Joseph�s hospital and three others are in the county prison as the result of two separate fights in Safe Harbor early Sunday morning. All of the men are employed on the dam project.
Lester J. Peck, of Blain, Perry County, the injured man, is suffering from a possible fracture and contusion of the left shoulder; cuts and brush burns of the right cheek, cut above the right eye and bruises of the left leg. His condition is regarded as good by attendants.
Thomas Terry, of Safe Harbor, his alleged assailant is being held on charges of felonious assault and battery for a hearing before Alderman David N. Trapnell. He is alleged to have beaten and kicked Peck in a fight that followed an argument over remarks which Perry is said to have made about Peck.
An additional charge of felonious entry and larceny was preferred against Terry who is alleged to have broken into a store owned by Sam Colasanti, of Safe Harbor, stealing cigars, cigarettes and about $2.00 in cash.
William Craig and James Champion, the latter colored, were both committed to jail in default of bail for a hearing before Alderman Trapnell on charges of drunkenness and disorderly conduct. They were arrested while fighting on a Safe Harbor street, police say.
The arrests were made by Trooper John Bucci, of the Conestoga Centre substation of State Police.

DANIEL MARTIN
Funeral services for Daniel Martin, fifty two, colored, of Conestoga, who was killed when struck by a hit run motorist on the New Danville pike, early Saturday morning will be held from Zercher�s funeral parlors, Conestoga, Monday (this) morning at ten o�clock. Burial will be in the Conestoga M. E. cemetery.
State Highway patrolmen are continuing the investigation into the death in an effort to learn the identity of the driver. Walter Gantz, of Manor township discovered the body early Saturday morning.
Martin is survived by a brother Frank and a sister Anna M., both of Conestoga.

Intelligencer
October 2, 1930
SAFE HARBOR TERRORIZED BY CRAZED MAN
Nabbed by State Trooper After He Fires Shot At Him.
STAGES TWO HOLDUPS
Supposedly crazed by rum, a colored man held the small community of Safe Harbor in a reign of terror for nearly an hour Wednesday night when he fire more than a dozen shots at pedestrians, committed two hold ups and attempted to shoot a State trooper who finally placed him under arrest.
Staggering into Safe Harbor, Allen Brown, forty four, colored dam worker, broke into the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Foy, also colored, where in the absence of the tenants, confiscated a 22 calibre automatic revolver. Armed also with a 32 calibre revolver, Brown greet the return of Mrs. Foy with the demand for money, thrusting the two weapons into her side at the time.
Woman Run Into Street Screaming
The colored man was frustrated in his attempt to rob the woman, however, when she ran into the street screaming as Brown fired several shots after her. Brandishing his two weapons above his head, Brown proceeded through the community taking a shot at anyone brave enough to appear in the already deserted street. As brown continued his staggering march through the town, residents sent in a hurry call to the State Police substation at Conestoga Center and Troopers John Buci and Lester Lucas rushed to the scene.
As they neared Safe Harbor, the two troopers were met by Foy who was on his way to the substation to notify them of the holdup in his home. Near Safe Harbor, the troopers sighted the colored man who was still brandishing his revolvers in characteristic wild west fashion.
Seeing the troopers at the same time, Brown sent a shot crashing toward the car a few inches from the heads of the two men. Giving chase to the negro Trooper Buci fired several shots but failed to halt the desperado.
Joined in the meantime by Lucas, the two troopers made a search of a nearby woods where they came across David Harris, another colored dam worker, who informed them hat he had just been held up at the point of a gun by Brown, robbed of $10 and then fired at several times when he obeyed a command to run for his life.
Continuing their search, the troopers finally found Brown hiding behind an emergency hospital building holding both revolvers in his hands and apparently expecting the troopers to approach from the opposite direction. Approaching him from the rear, the two troopers succeeded in disarming him and placed him under arrest.
Bought to this city, Brown was held in a cell at police headquarters without privilege of obtaining bail. A charge of maliciously pointing and discharging a firearm with intent to kill and two charges of highway robbery will be preferred against him Thursday (today) before Alderman David N. Tapnell, of this city.
According to workers engaged in the construction of the power dam at Safe Harbor. Brown became intoxicated within a short time after receiving his pay envelope. Going to his quarters he armed himself with a 32 calibre revolver and started out upon the escapade with resulted in his arrest.
The episode is the second within a few weeks in which State Trooper Buci has been fired at by colored dam workers whom he attempted to arrest.
Faulty shells in a gun saved his life on September 6 when John Douglas, another colored laborer, pointed a revolver at the trooper and pulled the trigger twice before he was disarmed.
Douglas was given six months in the county prison when he pleaded guilty to a charge of pointing a firearm. He had started a fight during a crap game in a bunk house at Safe Harbor.

Intelligencer Journal
November 10, 1930
COUNTY RESIDENT BURNED IN BLAST
Funeral services for Mrs. Stella Miller Myers, twenty seven, of Conestoga Center, who died Saturday in the Lancaster General hospital, of burns received when a can of kerosene she was using to light a fire exploded, will be held this Monday afternoon. Services will be held at 1:30 o�clock at Zercher�s funeral parlors, Conestoga, and at 2 o�clock at the Conestoga M.E. church. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery.
Ira Myers, her husband, an employee of Armstrong Linoleum company, was standing outside the house when he heard the explosion. Rushing into the house he found his wife, vainly attempting to beat out the flames that enveloped her.
While tearing the burning clothes from his wife, Myers was badly burned about both hands. He was assisted by Mr. and Mrs. Ross Sangrey and Mrs. Rebecca Smith, who helped him to extinguish the flames in the house and took care of the children. The victim was brought to this city, in the hospital ambulance.
Mrs. Myers at the time of the accident was apparently trying to start the fire in the kitchen range by using kerosene when a live spark ignited the fumes, causing the explosion.
Beside her husband the woman is survived by two children, Marguerite, ten, and Geraldine, five.

The following brothers and sisters also survive: John, Dewey, Harvey and Richard Miller, of Providence township; Mrs. John Eidemiller, Mrs. Dorothy Lebazius, Pearl, Orella and Elizabeth Miller, all of Lancaster.
Intelligencer Journal,
Nov. 19th, 1930
Laborer Killed at Safe Harbor
A thirty three year old laborer at the Safe Harbor dam was almost instantly killed by a flying rock during blasting operations on the island adjoining the dam project at 9 o'clock Tuesday morning.
The victim M. Ramon, a Russian, of 822 North Forth street, Philadelphia, was picked up by fellow workmen and rushed in the Safe Harbor emergency hospital. He was dead before the hospital was reached.
The body was taken charge by Undertaker A. J. Zercher, of Conestoga, who is holding the body until the arrival of relatives. Death was said to have been caused by a fractured skull.

The Sterling Gazette
October 9, 1931
Emanuel Hess, Long Resident Of Jordan , Dies
Veteran Carpenter Passes Away At East Moline Hospital Last Night
Emanuel Hess, a resident of Jordan township for three score and more years, passed away at 8:30 o'clock Friday night at a hospital in East Moline where he had been a patient for treatment about 10 months. Mr. Hess suffered painful injuries to his head about three years ago, when he fell while engaged in carpentry work on his home near Penrose. Since that time he has been in poor health, gradually declining until death came to relieve his sufferings.
Mr. Hess was a carpenter by trade. Until he retired from active work about six years ago his services were in demand for the construction of homes, barns and other buildings on farms north of Sterling. Even after he had retired at the age of 74 years, Mr. Hess did odd jobs for friends and neighbors. It was while he was remodeling his own residence that he fell, suffering injuries that hastened his death.
Emanuel Hess was a youth of 17 when he came to Whiteside County with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hess, who purchased a farm of 40 acres and settled in Jordan township. The family came here from Lancaster County, Pa., where Emanuel was born on Dec. 17, 1851. Several years later, in 1876, Emanuel was married to Caroline Trouth, who preceded him in death more than 25 years ago.
Two sons and three daughters survive to mourn the loss of their father. They are U.S. Hess of Beloit, Wis., Miss Minnie Hess of Chicago, Mrs. Stacy King of Perry, Ia., Mrs. Roy Scott of Dixon, Harry Hess of Dixon.
The body was taken overland from East Moline to the Preston Chapel in Dixon, from where the funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon. Interment will be in the Mennonite cemetery north of Sterling.

Dixon Evening Telegraph
(Lee County, IL)
April 20, 1933
Mrs. Jacob Trouth
Susan Hess was born in Lancaster, Pa., November 8, 1858 and passed away in death at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Oscar V. Ebersole, 705 East Fourth Street, Sterling, Ill. early Saturday morning April 15, 1933, aged 74 years 5 months and 7 days. She was one of the twelve children, nine boys and three girls of Michael and Mary Eshelman Hess who have been noted in this community for the length of their lives in certain individuals. The oldest of their children was taken by death at the age of forty and one brother died during the famous gold rush in Alaska in 1898, but until Eli's death on September 16, 1920 at the age of 71 years many many years had passed without a death in the family. Zach and Jerry as identical twins at the age of 88 years celebrated their anniversary of their birth on March 16. At the time they were believed to be the oldest surviving twin veterans of the Civil War and their sister, Mrs. Mary Stauffer of Penrose observed her 90th birthday anniversary recently.
Susan came west with her parents when she was nine years of age and received most of her elementary education in the Jordan township schools. She was united in marriage to Jacob Trouth at the parsonage of the Lutheran Church in Dixon by Rev. Luther L. Lipe, pastor, on January 18, 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Trouth for the first two years of their married life lived on a farm in Palmyra township, Lee County when they moved to Dixon, where they lived for thirty years at 116 Noble Ave. To them six children were born, four of whom survive their mother. Roy was a soldier in the World War and died overseas. His body was brought home for burial in the Dixon Cemetery and three months later his sister Lillian, wife of John Freed passed away in death.
The surviving children of Mrs. Trouth are Anna, wife of Oscar V. Ebersole, Sterling, Stella, wife of John Hipple, Dixon, Bessie, wife of John Palmer, Dixon and George Trouth also of Dixon. Mr. Trouth, the father, was taken by death on August 21, 1929, the cause of his death being heart trouble. Besides the three daughters and one son, ten grandchildren survive their grandmother whom they loved dearly.
Besides her brothers who are affectionaly known as "Uncle Zach" and "Uncle Jerry" her youngest brother, Theodore lives in Elgin,Ill and her sister, Mary, as Mrs. Mary Stauffer at Penrose. The following brothers preceded her in death, Benjamin Hess, Michael, Eli, Jacob, Ephriam and Emmanuel. Her only other sister, Emma, wife of Henry Mellinger, is dead.
Mrs. Trouth was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church Dixon and was a good and devout christian woman. She was one of simple tastes and habits and made the Word of God her only unfailing rule of faith and life. She loved flowers and always had a profusion of them in her garden. In her relationship in her home life she was always faithful to the degree of self-sacrifice. Since the death of her son and daughter so close in time in 1918, and her helpmate in 1929, she has not enjoyed good health. Two years ago in July she ceased to keep her home in Dixon, and went to live with her daughter in Sterling. Gradually her stength failed and she passed to the Home Eternal very peacefully. May her soul rest in Jesus in peace.

The Sterling Gazette
July 7, 1933
Zachariah E. Hess
Twin Brothers are separated after 88 years
Death Summons Zachariah Hess Thursday Evening Following Stroke
Zachariah Hess, 88-year-old Civil War veteran, died at 12:15 o�clock last night at the home of his niece, Mrs, Frank K. Barge, on the Freeport road, following a stroke he suffered while working in his flower garden yesterday morning at 6:30 o;clock. He never rallied. "Uncle Zach" as he was known to many relatives and friends lived a vigorous life, even to his death, having been engaged in his beloved flower garden. He and his twin brother, Jeremiah, of Dixon, were honored last spring at the Barge home with a birthday party, March 16, 1933. The twins were nationally known as having been among the last twin brothers who were survivors of the Civil War.
Mr. Hess was born March 16, 1845, near Safe Harbor, Lancaster County, Pa., making him 88 years, 3 months and 21 days old. At the age of 17, he and his brother "Jerry" enlisted in the 20th Pennsylvania cavalry and served in it six months, when they were mustered out. They immediately re-enlisted in the 236th Pennsylvania volunteers, and fought continuously to the close of the Civil War, having been in the engagements at Fort Fisher, Petersburg, Gettysburg and other famous battles. At the end of the war, the brothers came west and made their home.
Zachariah Hess was a carpenter and very fine cabinet worker while his brother Jeremiah was a stone mason. Mr. Hess was very fond of flowers and during the latter years of his life greatly enjoyed floriculture. He was one of a family of 12 children, nine boys and three girls.
Surviving him are a son, Albert Hess of Reseda, Calif., his brother Jeremiah of Dixon, a brother, Theodore of Elgin and one sister, Mrs. Mary Stauffer of Penrose and a number of nieces and nephews.
Word has been received from the son, Albert H. Hess in California that he will be unable to come to Sterling for the services.
The remains have been removed to the Melvin funeral home, where they may be viewed until Saturday, after which they will be returned to the Barge home.
Private services will be held at the home of Frank Barge, south of Penrose, Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o�clock followed by services at the Science Ridge church at 3:00 o�clock. Rev. A.C. Good officiating. Burial will be in the Science Ridge cemetery adjoining the church.

The Sterling Gazette
February 13, 1934
Early Penrose Settler Dies at Daughter�s home
Mrs. Mary Hess Stauffer, Native of Lancaster
Was 90 years old
A beautiful life was called to its reward yesterday afternoon at 2:30 o�clock in the passing of Mrs. Mary Hess Stauffer at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Susie Franklin of Penrose. Mrs. Stauffer suffered a fractured hip in a fall in October 1932, and since that time had been bedfast. Despite the fact that she had been invalided she was bright and cheerful at all times and enjoyed the visits of friends and relatives. She had lived in the home where she died for 65 years, and she and her husband were among the early settlers from Pennsylvania in the Penrose community. She was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania on March 18, 1843. As Mary A. Hess, she was united in marriage to Ripley Stauffer in Lancaster county on October 16, 1862, to whom were born three children, Mrs. Susie Franklin of Penrose and William Stauffer of Steward. A daughter, Lizzie Hess Bennett, passed away about 1885. Mr. Stauffer passed away February 3, 1925. Other survivors are : Jeremiah Hess, a twin brother of Zachariah Hess who passed away last fall at the age of 88 years; and Theodore Hess who lives in Elgin. There are four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren surviving.
Funeral services will be held at the home at 1:30 o�clock Thursday afternoon and from the West Science Ridge Mennonite church at 2:00 o�clock, with the Rev. A.D. Schaeffer of the Dixon Evangelical church officiating. If Rev. A.C. Good returns from a visit with his daughter at Hopedale tomorrow he will assist in the services.
Burial will be in the Mennonite cemetery beside the body of her husband.

The Sterling Gazette
August 18, 1934
Jeremiah E Hess
Jeremiah Hess is Summoned by death at Lyndon
Passes away at the age of 89 at home of daughter, Mrs. Ida Dawson
Jeremiah E. Hess, passed away suddenly at 1:10 o�clock Saturday afternoon at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ida Dawson of Lyndon, where he had been living for some time. His death was caused by the general infirmities of old age. Saturday morning he complained of feeling tired and did not care to get up, otherwise he showed no signs of being ill. The body was removed to the Melvin funeral home in this city where the funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o�clock and at 2:30 o�clock at the Science Ridge Mennonite church. Rev. A.C. Good, Pastor of the church, will officiate. Burial will be in the cemetery adjoining the church.
Jeremiah E. Hess, twin son of Michael and Mary Magdalena Eshleman Hess, was born March 16, 1845 at Safe Harbor, Pa. He was married to Lydia E. Millhouse on July 3, 1873. She passed away on December 28, 1881. Following the Civil War, he and his twin brother, Zachariah Hess, who passed away July 7, last, came west and settled in Jordan township, where they resided many years. Mr. Hess also resided in Lyndon for about 10 years and of late years reside with his children, returning to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Dawson at Lyndon last spring.
The brothers enlisted at the age of 17 as privates in Co. A, 203rd Regiment Pennsylvania volunteer infantry on August 16, 1864, at Lancaster Pa., and served in the U.S. Army for a period of 21 months. On March 16, 1933, when they celebrated their eighty-eighth birthday, they were believed to be the only surviving twin veterans of the Civil War.
Mr. Hess is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Ida Dawson of Lyndon, Mrs. Margaret Peterson of Dixon and Mrs. Lizzie John of Jordan. Twelve grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and one brother, Theodore Hess of Elgin, the latter the last of the family, survive. In March of this year, the twin brothers were featured in a Ripley "Believe It or Not" sketch.

Intelligencer
May 3, 1937
Miss Annie Martin
Miss Annie Martin, fifty-seven, died at 2 a.m. Sunday at her home in Conestoga of complications. She was a daughter of the late Aaron and Lucy Martin, and was a member of the Conestoga M. E. church. She is survived by a brother, Frank, at home.
Services will be held at 10 am. (S.T.) Tuesday at the Zercher funeral home, Conestoga, with internment in the Conestoga M. E. cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 7 to 9 p.m. this Monday (today).

Intelligencer -Journal
September 6, 1943
FUNERAL TUESDAY FOR DR. H. J. RODDY
Funeral services for Dr. H. Justin Roddy, who died in Pittsburgh, early Saturday will be held from the Robinson building, Chestnut and Charlotte Sts., at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Burial will take place in the Brethren Church Cemetery, Neffsville.
Dr. Roddy, who was eighty-seven years old in May, was emeritus professor of Geology and emeritus curator of the Museum at Franklin and Marshall College at the time of his death. He had been ill for a week with pneumonia and was confined to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Clair C. Kinter, with whom he resided since last Fall.
RETIRED LAST FALL
After an active life, during 68 years of which he worked as a geologist, educator, author, and found time to engage in cabinet making and numerous other hobbies, Dr. Roddy retired last fall and for the past ten months has been living at his daughter�s home.
During sixteen years in charge of the museum at F. and M. Dr. Roddy built up the geology department at the college, interested hundreds of young men in natural history, and personally collected a large majority of the specimens and constructed most of the exhibits in the museum.
Dr. Roddy�s outstanding discovery in his pre-historic research was a primitive hydrozoan, of the coral group, which he found at Fruitville, and which was named for him. The small sea animal bears the name of Campto Stroma Roddyl, given it by Ruddeman, of the Albany, N.Y. Museum, in honor of the finder. Several other of his pre-historic findings also were named in his honor, but the hydrozoan was the most prominent and the one of which he was proudest.
LED GEOLOGISTS AT 82
In 1938, when he was eighty-two years old, Dr. Roddy led a party of geologists into the Appalachian mountains to study erosion and rock strata in connection with the beginning of the Susquehanna.
When Dr. Roddy joined the F. and M. faculty, after being forced to retire from the Millersville Normal school faculty because of the school age law, the college had only a small class in geology. By the time he had been there several years the classes had grown into sections with several hundred students taking the course.
Among his best known works is his revision of "Maury�s Geography": "Roddy�s Geography," which was published in two volumes: "Physical and Industrial Geography of Lancaster County", "Origin of Concretions in Streams", and "The Reptiles of Lancaster County and the State of Pennsylvania". He contributed chapters on natural history in more than a score of books, also wrote for the Lancaster New Era and the Sunday News.
Who�s Who lists Dr. Roddy as a fellow of the American Geography Society, a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a fellow of the American Geological Society, a member of the American Museum of Natural History, and secretary of the Lancaster Linnaean Scientific Society.
TOOK INTERST IN TREES
For more than fifty years he conducted nature hikes, was interested in a wide variety of civic activities and served as secretary for the Lancaster City Tree Commission, director of the Lancaster Nature Study Club, naturalist at the YMCA�s Camp Shand for many years, and took a personal interest in the trees in all local parks, often call the attention of authorities to any disease in the wood.
Dr. Roddy was born at Landisburg, Perry County, a son of the late William Henry and Susanna Catherine Roddy. His father was a teacher and civic leader in Perry County. After attending public schools in Perry County, he entered Millersville State Normal School and received four degrees in education, pedagogy and science. He was awarded his Doctor of Philosophy degree by the University of the City of Kansas and his Doctor of Science degree by Franklin and Marshall.
Beginning his teaching at the age of eighteen, he served in several grade schools and then resumed his studies at Millersville, when he joined the Normal School faculty in 1887. He became head of the geography department in 1891, head of the geography and geology department in 1901, and head of the department of natural sciences in 1908. After serving a total of 39 years at Millersville he was forced to retire in 1926, because of the State school law on age.
Immediately after his "retirement" he joined the faculty at F. and M. and remained there until last November when he was forced to give up his numerous activities because of failing health.
WAS MARRIED IN 1891
He was married in this city in 1891 to Anna H. Graver, who died many years ago. For many years they lived in Conestoga and following Mrs. Roddy�s death Dr. Roddy lived in this city with his son for some years, return to Conestoga occasionally, and for a time lived at the college prior to going to Pittsburg to his daughter�s home.
His only son, Dr. H. Justin Roddy, Jr., died several years ago. His daughter, Anna Mary, wife of Clair C. Kinter, has resided in Pittsburgh for some years. Two grandchildren also survive: William Roddy and Richard Justin Kinter.

Charlie Miller appears to be the only professional baseball player from Conestoga. In addition, his team, the Baltimore Terrapins of the Federal League, sued the National and American Leagues when the team wasn't absorbed in the other two leagues. The case went to the U.S. Supreme Court where it was decided that professional baseball was exempt from the Sherman-Anti Trust Act.
Intelligencer Journal
January 15, 1951
C.H. MILLER DIED AT MILLERSVILLE
WAS BASEBALL STAR
Charles H. Miller, seventy-three, 244 N. George St., Millersville, an outstanding baseball pitcher in his younger days, died at his home at 4:15 p.m. Saturday after a lengthy illness.
He attended Millersville State Normal School, where he gained prominence in the local and professional baseball world as a pitcher, and in later years as an umpire.
He played for Millersville on its teams of 1904 and 1905, and after graduation hurled for a Tri-State League team. After posting successful records in that league, he was signed by the Baltimore Orioles of the International League, and then graduated in 1913 into the old Federal League, which demanded a manor league status in competition with the National League until it folded in 1915.>br?
After his playing days, which ended about 1925, he took up umpiring and officiated in local and nearby leagues.
He was born in Conestoga Center, a son of the late Daniel A. and Fanny Hess Miller, but was a resident of Millersville nearly all his life. A former silk mill and cigar making foreman, he retired eight years ago due to ill health.
The last of his immediate family, he was a member of St. Paul�s Lutheran Church, Millersville, and in addition to his wife, Susan Keen Miller, is survived by five children: Clarence C. Millersville, Daniel A., Lancaster; Miriam E., wife of Henry Krick, Harrisburg; Dorothy M., wife of Harold C. Siegler, Millersville; and Charles H., Jr., at home. Seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews also survive.

The Sterling Gazette
August 16, 1957
Theodore E. Hess
Former Area Teacher dies at age of 91
Services for Theodore E. Hess, 91, former area teacher who died at 7 o�clock Friday night at Whiteside county nursing home will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Melvin funeral home.
Bishop A.C. Good will officiate. Burial will be in Science Ridge cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after noon Sunday.
Mr. Hess was born October 10, 1865 in Conestoga Centre Pa., son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hess. The family came west and located in Sterling. He taught school for 14 years in Ogle and Whiteside counties and was employed as a carpenter and a correspondence school solicitor. He was a mail clerk for six years with the Chicago and North Western railroad and later operated an advertising agency in Elgin.
There are no immediate survivors.

Comments have been added to the end of this article to provide additional information. These comments were not in the original newspaper article
Lancaster Sunday News
August 1st, 1971, page 48
ANOTHER FORGOTTEN CEMETERY
Neglected Plot at Conestoga Dates to Civil War Era
by Jean Klinedinst
Forlorn, neglected and forgotten.
These words aptly described the small Negro cemetery in Conestoga.
The property includes a tract of less than half an acre. Access to the boundary lines is easily gained by way of Valley Road or down the "old coffin trail' that leads off Main Street in Conestoga.
Once you get that far, however, the picture changes.
If your curiosity gets the best of you and you decide to pay a visit to the old cemetery, it might be best to carry a machete or a scythe along with you. Apparently no one attends to the grounds and briars, brambles, poison ivy and sumac grew with abandon.
Records indicate that there were originally fifty graves on this spot. There was at one time a small church and according to Ollie Foutz, a resident of Conestoga, there was also a shed.
There is a deed for the property recorded at the Lancaster County Courthouse in 1864 which gives the name of the church as the "African Methodist Evangelical Church, and Cemetery." It's recorded on microfilm, hand written, and faded with no name of the buyer or the seller visible.
William Renkin, a cryptographer at the courthouse, theorizes that the deed was made in 1861, but due to difficulties encountered because of the Civil War, it was not recorded until 1864.
One legible tombstone, in the old cemetery, that of a Samuel R. Cooper, E. Co., 99th Regt., Army Reg. "Killed at the battle of Fairmont Church" 1 - May 9, 1863 - would indicate that Bill's theory is at least partially correct since Cooper was obviously buried before the deed was recorded.
The four-tenths acre tract lies 618 feet south of Valley Road - north 9 degrees - 45 minutes east - 618.8 feet to the center line of Valley Road - along the center line south 53 degrees 45 minutes-east 128.7 feet - then south 9 degrees 45 minutes- west-544.4 feet - north 83 degrees - west 115.5 feet.
According to Renkin, these lines do not match by any property surrounding it.
"Over 106 years ago when this survey was made, the surveyor had the option of using either magnetic north or true north, depending on the situation, " he explained. "Several things could have caused the difference in measurements. One, poor terrain, such as a ravine running through the property - secondly, magnetic north seldom matchers true north and would throw the final measurements off."
Renkin reports that from 1958 to 1962, a survey was conducted and all deeds in Conestoga were collected and put on the map. This particular deed is carried as abandoned church property, exempt from taxes in the township.
FEW MARKERS
Today you'll find only a fraction of the original 50 tombstones 2 or markers standing, and some are legible. Broken pieces of stones are all that remain of the rest.
In addition to the Samuel Cooper tombstone, other readable stones in the cemetery bear the names of Sarah Elizabeth Cooper, Lewis Martin, Hiram Martin, another Lewis who served in Co., K 99th Regt., and died in 1926,3 Sgt. Alfred Webster, Co. F, 6th U.S. Colored Infantry, who died in 1896.
One other stone carries only the initials S. H., but perhaps the most legible and certainly the longest inscription is on a stone bearing the name Fanny E. Deamony, Jan. 29, 1848 - June 9, 1865, who died at age 16. The stone bears this verse:
Short were my days-
Long is my rest -
God called me home-
He thought it best."

At one time, someone cared for there are iris and lily of the valley growing on a few graves amid the weeds.
Mrs. Melvin Camel, who property borders that of the cemetery remembers that "some years back a Negro man named Green, " 4 who lived over around Mt. Nebo somewhere, used to come over and mow every now and then."
The church that stood there was a small simple building, apparently wood frame with a stone foundation.
The church was destroyed by fire, and rumors are that it was by an act of arson that was never investigated.
There is a row of pine trees planted over the spot upon which it once stood: remnants of a wire fence are visible. The wire is bent and ivy covered and a few locusts posts still remain.
Foutz, who is 90, remembers the church standing when he was a boy. He estimates that it burned down about 75 years ago.
REMEMBERS PEOPLE
Foutz remembers well some of the people who are buried in the cemetery. They lived in a community of their own on Valley Road that residents of Conestoga referred to as "The Hollow".
There was a man named Eli Richardson 5 and he used to keep a horse in the shed that stood on the church property." Ollie recalls. "He lived in The Hollow" about 60 years ago. The house is still standing - second house on the right hand side of Valley Road as you go down from Conestoga. I think a family named Eves lives there now."
Then there was a guy named Frank, who wanted to marry Eli's daughter, but Eli knew
Frank was no good and he wouldn't let him marry her. This made Frank mad and he up and shot old Eli - didn't kill him though. After that, Frank just disappeared. Some said he went out to Pittsburgh." 6
"There was another one named Lew Kirk and he was a mean old man, " Foutz continued. "He thought he was boss in "The Hollow". This guy named Ed Pecos decided to put his horse down at the church, too, and Kirk didn't like it. So he laid in the bushes and waited for Pecos and shot him with a shotgun. Dr. Maris Kendig, the doctor in Conestoga took - I don't know how many - shots out of Pecos." 7
"Pecos lived in the first house on the right side of Valley Road and its still standing too. A family named Good lives there now.
POW-WOW DOCTOR
"Dr. Kenig (Kendig) was a pow wow doctor.8. He pow-wowed for my wife. Harriet Sweeney pow-wowed too. She lived in a house that stood where Mrs. Donald Mylin lives today. People used to come from miles around to get treated by her."
Then there was the Martin family, they were a real good family and awful particular about keeping their house neat and clean. Their place was right above Mrs. Mylins."
"Dan Martin wasn't much account though. He got drunk a good bit. he worked down at the Safe Harbor dam when they were building it. He got drunk one night and was walking home when someone hit him with a car and killed him." 9
RECALL STORIES
All of the older residents of Conestoga were very young when the Negros still lived in "the Hollow" but several admit remembering stories of arson and vandalism committed against them in an effort to drive them off. These crimes were never investigated. 10
A few citizens believe that Jack and Dan Martin and their three sisters who lived in the house adjacent to Mrs. Mylin's were the last to leave "the Hollow" but when the last family left is not definite.11 Gradually they moved away, reportedly to Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York. Although a few of these people supposedly moved to Tucquan Hollow earlier, there is no indication that any survivors of the people buried in the cemetery live in Lancaster County.
Mrs. Camel remembers the last funeral took place about 25 years ago. "A family brought a body up from Baltimore and buried it here but I don't know who it was."
The coffin trail" is the lane alongside her house. This is the road that hearse would follow into the cemetery.
War veterans and just plain people are buried there-forgotten and neglected.


Comments on this last article
1 Its not Fairmont Church, its Falmouth Church, Virginia. This error was repeated in the CD of tombstone inscriptions for Conestoga Twp. An earlier Journal article identifies it as Falmouth, Virginia, near Chancellorsville. The battle of Chancellorsville was fought about the time of Samuel's death. For more information see "Two Civil War Soldiers" on our web page or his pension file at CAHS.

2 I think there may be 50 burials in this cemetery but not 50 tombstones. Most probably didn't have tombstones. Bill Johnson of D'Appolonia Inc., who did the geophysics on the AME cemetery found about 50 burials but Bill believes that we didn�t search a wide enough area. His report will be on the web page in the near future.

3 It wasn�t Louis who died in 1926 but Washington Martin. See his obit, January 14, 1926 see Jane Turner Martin�s obit at October 27, 1890, for Aaron Martin�s obit see, December 26, 1888, for his marriage see August 28, 1869, for the death of his son Daniel see September 29, 1930 and his daughter Annie at May 3rd, 1937. I assume Washington is the son of Lewis and Jane Turner Martin but he isn�t mentioned in her obit.

4 Washington Martin�s daughter married a Maris Green who lived at Tucquan, Martic Twp., so perhaps it was he or one of Washington�s grandsons who tended to the AME cemetery, maybe after Washington�s death in 1926.

5 Is this Harriet Sweeney's brother ? Her maiden name was Richardson. She was a pow-wow doctor, she died see her obit at July 28, 1884. See also an article on pow-wow doctors at January 19, 1876 in the general area, not covering a single township.

6 The late John Walton told me that he remembers Frank Martin, who moved to Pittsburgh. This was when Walton was a young boy, in the early 1930s. Frank Martin worked for Walton's father. John told me that Frank Martin was being threatened by someone, he didn't know who, but we both assumed it was by whites, maybe not, maybe it was by Richardson.

7 See the newspaper account of the Kirk/Pecos dispute at June 8, 1895

4 Dr. Kendig was not a powwow doctor, he was an M.D., the son of Dr. John Kendig.

9 I have the newspaper article about the death of Daniel Martin, he was hit by a car, see September 29, 1930 I don't know if he worked at Safe Harbor or if he had just been down there drinking. John Walton said he also worked for his father. Local legend says Dan Martin was a moonshiner and was beaten up by one of his competitors but the state police ruled it a hit and run and Zercher, the undertaker, seems to confirm that.

10 What I've seen is that the number of African Americans in Conestoga began declining after the Civil War as African Americans began moving to Lancaster for better jobs in factories. Farm labor is still the lowest paying jobs and the factory jobs paid better. Its possible that the AME church was intentionally burned down but harassment wasn't the reason African Americans began leaving Conestoga. By 1850 there were 130 African Americans in Conestoga Twp. and about 75 lived in Conestoga Centre. By 1860 there were 143 in the township with 52 living in Conestoga Centre. In 1870 John W. Urban was the census taker and he didn�t distinguish people by post office so its difficult to determine how many were in Conestoga Centre but there were 89 African Americans in the township. By 1900 the African American population of Conestoga Township had dropped to 44 with only the Edward Pecos and the Martin family living in Conestoga Centre. Its thought that after the Civil War many African Americans (as well as whites) began moving into Lancaster City where there were better paying jobs. African Americans in Conestoga were primarily farm laborers but when factory jobs opened in Lancaster City they began moving there.

11 Annie Martin, daughter of Aaron and Lucy Martin died in 1937, her mother and brother Dan died in 1930. Brother Frank (not Jack) left in the early 30s so Annie was probably the last African American in the Hallow although there were probably other African Americans in Conestoga Twp.


John G. Walton Jr.
Intelligencer Journal (Lancaster, PA) - Friday, November 26, 2004.

John G. Walton, Jr., 81, husband of Emma Marie (Eshleman) Walton of Conestoga, died Tuesday.
Born October 29, 1923, in Conestoga, son of the late John G., Sr. and Lizzie (Graver) Walton. In addition to his wife Mr. Walton is survived by 2 sons: William D., husband of Sara S. Walton of Bridgewater, VA and Ronald B., husband of Beverly G. Walton of Conestoga; a daughter: Donna Marie Walton of Conestoga; and 6 grandchildren.
After graduating from Manor High School in 1941, John went into the plumbing and heating business with his father. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. He became involved in the township Planning Commission from 1948 to 1968. He served as Conestoga Township School Director for one term (6 years) in the late 1970's. In 1956, the Conestoga Ambulance Association was formed. Mr. Walton was elected treasurer and remained in that position for 30 years. He was also a member of the Lancaster County Plumber's Association for 20 years. A member of the Conestoga United Methodist Church since 1936, he was treasurer from 1971 until 2002 and Trustee of the church since 1995. He was a member of the Conestoga Volunteer Fire Co. for 53 years, and was the treasurer of the Conestoga Fire Police for 37 years. Mr. Walton was a member and vice president of the Conestoga Area Historical Society, which he enjoyed since 1990. He was Township Supervisor from 1979 to 1994 and served as chairman of the supervisors for at least 6 years. He worked on the Conestoga Township road crew for 9 years, retiring in 1994. Mr. Walton worked for the Bank of Lancaster County and Fulton Bank as a mail courier from 1995 to 2003. On September 24, 1995, he was awarded the certificate for completion of Volunteer Training, which was presented by the Lancaster Chapter of "Neighbors Who Care" Program Director David Bond. Mr. Walton also enjoyed stamp, coin, and antique collecting, and being a part time farmer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Conestoga United Methodist Memorial Fund or the Conestoga Area Historical Society, P.O. Box 232 Conestoga, PA 17516.
Funeral Services will be Monday at 10:00 a.m. at Conestoga United Methodist Church, 71 Sand Hill Road, Conestoga with his pastor, Reverend Jeannine Brenner officiating. Viewing will be 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Gundel Funeral Home, 3225 Main Street, Conestoga and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow at the Conestoga United Methodist Cemetery.


Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
April 22, 2009
Remembering Lancaster's Lost Port
BY JAMES BUESCHERCorrespondent

Near the west entrance to Safe Harbor Park in Conestoga Township stands a testament to an odd chapter in Lancaster County history - the Port of Lancaster.
The almost-forgotten 19th-century port attempted to use the Conestoga River to put Lancaster on par with the ports of Boston, Savannah and New York City.
"Lancaster's port was never really a success. It spent most of its time in bankruptcy and almost as soon as the port was built it was put out of business by the railroads," Jack Loose, a historian with the Lancaster County Historical Society, said last recently.
"But it is true. At one time Lancaster did consider itself a port city," he said. "And it was possible, by traveling down the Conestoga to the Susquehanna and then to Baltimore, to go down to our city's port and buy yourself a one-way ticket across the ocean to Paris."
The strange history of Lancaster's forgotten port dates to 1825, with the formation of the Conestoga Navigation Co.
It used slackwater navigation - and a series of nine locks - to transport goods and passengers from Lancaster city, using a terminus in what is now Lancaster County Park, to Conestoga Township, where the mouth of the Conestoga River meets the Susquehanna River.
From there, according to Ken Hoak, president and curator of the Conestoga Historical Society, mules were used to pull boats out across the width of the Susquehanna River on an edifice known as a "crib dam," a long, manmade structure extending west to York County and made from sturdy wooden boxes filled with rocks and other ballast.
The crib dam, Hoak said, made it possible for people and animals to walk shoreline to shoreline across the Susquehanna River in the mid-19th century.
"One of the many problems with the Port of Lancaster is that the canal (the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal) you'd use to get down to Maryland is located on the wrong side of the river," Hoak said. "So to make it practical, the financiers had to construct this massive structure, one literally built across and through the Susquehanna River."
Once goods reached the York side of the river, they could be shipped using the 43-mile Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal south to Havre de Grace, Md., where products and people could be loaded onto a bay steamer headed south to Baltimore or Washington, D.C.
Unfortunately, though, because the port was entirely dependent on the weather (nothing, Loose said, could be shipped in wintertime) and because the complicated series of locks made shipping almost prohibitively expensive, the port was put out of business in 1857 with the coming of the railroads, especially lines which ran down the eastern shore of the Susquehanna, past Holtwood , from Harrisburg down to what is now Port Deposit in Cecil County, Md.
As time passed, Loose said, evidence of Lancaster's port began to disappear: floods and winter freezes caused the canal's stonework to break down, the locks were dismantled and Lancaster's attention began to shift away from the Susquehanna River and its water connections to Baltimore and, instead, toward the city's new rail links to Philadelphia.
Today, Loose said, there are only a handful of reminders of the port's existence. There are two historical markers along the Conestoga River - the one in Safe Harbor Park and another in Lancaster Township.
Also, there is the Safe Harbor Dam, a hydroelectric dam built in 1930 on the remainder of the crib dam; and the Dirty Ol' Tavern at 917 S. Prince St., originally founded as one of the port's main taverns and hotel.
Looking back at Lancaster's brief time as a "port" city, Loose said, is difficult because it isn't clear what legacy, if any, the port has left behind.
"Whenever I think of the port, I think that it was an idea ahead of its time," he said. "It was a scheme cooked up by some local business people, and no matter how much money they poured into it, they could never quite seem to get it to work."
For Hoak, the Port of Lancaster is best remembered as "a 19th-century oddity."
"How many cities in the world can claim to be a port and not even have a shoreline?" he said. "Lancaster's port ... is a little-known fact that leaves most people dumbfounded."
The early to middle 19th century, he said, should be remembered as a dynamic time in which a very young United States was experimenting with "just about every conceivable method" to jump-start the construction of the new nation's infrastructure.
"Just think of it. Back then, there were people who spent their childhoods in a real Conestoga wagon, and by the end of their lives they were riding the rails in a Pullman car," he said.
"The people who lived back then, they saw some tremendous changes in their lives. For them, the Port of Lancaster ... was just another quick stop along the road."
Safe Harbor Park is located along River Road in Conestoga Township, near the intersection of Powerhouse Road.
The Art Deco historical marker, which appears to have been put up by the Safe Harbor Water Power Co. in the 1930s, is located along the Conestoga River shoreline at the park's west end.