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 scène: "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