Child Falls In Well
J. A. Lowrey and family terror-stricken! Their only son, Homer, only four years old, has fallen into my well, about 60 feet deep! Remains in for nearly an hour before discovered by his father, who came from his work to get a drink of water. I was immediately summoned to the spot of terror, whereupon Mr. Lowery descended the well, partly by the rope and partly on the wall, with the alacrity of an expert sailor. He reaches his boy and thank God, life is not extinct. He was floating on the water, holding to the bucket or rope which was in the water. Soon he was made fast to one end of the rope and hastily I hoisted him from his dismal den. The child is badly bruised, but not seriously hurt, and in a few days will be entirely over it. The well had no cover to it, and he had climbed up on a little trough which was attached to the box wall around the well for conveying water into the horse lot, while peeping over lost his balance and into it he plunged.
Respectfully,
J. P. Woolsey
Colorado Citizen, May 12, 1881
Transcribed by Judy Talkington
WEIMAR LOCAL MATTERS
Our German friends of Oakland will hold their annual Schuetzen Fest at that place the 24th of this month. A good time is anticipated. Everybody is invited to attend and add to the pleasure of the occasion. The President informs us that no pains will be spared to make the meeting enjoyable.
Colorado Citizen, May 17, 1883
Oakland Remarks
Editor Gimlet: The citizens here are making an effort to purchase or build a house for religious purposes. This is a good move in the right direction and the consumation of which would fill a long felt want. What speaks more for a community than a nice church in which to worship God in a decent and respectable manner. Mixing up a day school and religious services in the same house is a very poor arrangement. We certainly can do better than that. Let every citizen feel the importance of this matter, take hold and act at once. It can be done and we should feel that we can and will do it. There are good and nice people here and a great many children for the size of the place. The Sabath school at 9 in the morning, prayer meeting every Sunday evening at 3, preaching on the 2nd and 4th Sundays; all well attended. And to be compelled to meet in a school room with old broken down benches, desk, dirt, molasses, greece[sic], flees, no lights, no altar, no glass in the windows, no stand for the preacher, steps all giving away, nobody to ring the bell, nobody to light up the house, no person to sweep out, and a house used for every political meeting and shows that come along. Shame, shame on us, fellow citizens, to allow such a state of affairs exist in the midst of a refined and intelligent people. .... I am for Oakland and your very truly,
NAVIDAD, July 28, 1885
Weimar Gimlet, July 30, 1885
Oakland Remarks
Mrs. Ivey has moved into her new house. Chas. Bock’s is not finished yet.
Weimar Gimlet, July 30, 1885
OAKLAND NOTES
The skating craze has struck this town at last, and is daily becoming more infectious. Several pairs of skates recently ordered arrived Saturday, and the young ladies and gentlemen repaired to the hall to practice. The floor of the hall is smooth and answers well for a rink. Those participating were Misses Massie Bouldin, Orlena McKennon, Blanche Rodgers, Nannie Townsend, Susie Hutchins, Mamie Laidley, Lizzie and Alice Mullin, Messrs. Walter Shropshire, W. D. Wade, Charles Benson, August Strunk, J. W. James, Thomas Mullin and Masters J. P. Hutchings and Johnny VanWagner. The whole thing, with the beginners, was interesting, and to the spectators quite amusing. Mr. Charly Benson created the most amusement in the practice. He is about six feet high, and otherwise in proportion; and in former days, in his native Denmark, had skated on the ice. Having adjusted his rollers, and rising to his full height, he soon took in the situation, and off he glided, a Colossus, in comparison to others. He did very well for q few rounds, but by and by he gave a heavy stroke with his right leg for the middle of the hall, which caused him to lose his gravity, while his right heel went for the ceiling and his left out yonder, causing a tremendous collision with the floor! Charlie soon picked himself up and skated for an hour or two. One man said that he could see so far in that business. Mr. Ed. Woolsey, who sprained his ankle, says he has skated his last. Notwithstanding the falls, there will be skating tomorrow evening at the hall.
Colorado Citizen, February 11, 1886
OAKLAND NOTES
The quarterly conference in session at this place Saturday appointed a committee consisting of T. H. Lane, H. C. Carson and S. B. Townsend, to purchase a lot for the purpose of erecting a Methodist Church here. We understand that the committee has already gone to work and secured the lot. May our good peple come forward and lend a helping hand to this noble cause.
Colorado Citizen, June 10, 1886
Oakland Notes
The old Clear Creek church, that was built some thirty years ago, through the aid of some of the first settlers of this section, has been torn down and moved to this place. All the material, that is of worth, will be used in building the Methodist church at Oakland.
Colorado Citizen, July 22, 1886
Submitted by Ernest Mae Seaholm
Oakland Remarks
Mr. Jeff Rhodes having sold out here has taken down his macinery and started for Shiner with four wagon loads. His family will soon follow. Mr. Rhode[sic] appears to be sanguine about the future of Shiner. The oldest landmark in our town—where the above gin machinery occupied and known as the Simpson residence--is being demolished and moved away by Mr. Val Schott, who purchased the same and intends to put it up as a barn on his farm. The block was purchased by Mr. Laas, who, it is rumored, will put some fine machinery in our town.
Weimar Mercury, November 16, 1889
OAKLAND REMARKS
I have found the oldest inhabitant—John Townsend, colored. He lives three miles from here, is 115 years old, so his old master told him. He belonged to Mr. Stape Townsend, who now lives in Hays county. Uncle John can hear well, sight is good enough to hunt with a gun and make baskets. He never had but one wife, by whom he had eighteen children, thirteen of whom are still living. He chews tobacco, never smoked, and never drank liquor.
Weimar Mercury, March 28, 1889
Oakland Remarks
The Masonic fraternity held a regular meeting in their hall here last Saturday evening. It being election day the following officers will serve for the ensuing Masonic year: H. J. Strunk, W. M.; J. M. Woolsey, S. W.; Henry Schultz, J. W.; J. T. Eason, Sec.; H. A. Neuhaus, Treas.; J. H. Mullin, Tiler; J. W. Rees, S. D,; R. J. Kinkler, J. D.
Weimar Mercury, June 7, 1890
OAKLAND REMARKS
The new Methodist church built by the colored people of this community is progressing to completion. They have it weatherboarded and covered. The doors, windows and steeple are to be finished yet. It is a very nice structure, and when completed will add very much to the appearance of their side of our town.
Weimar Mercury, November 15, 1890
OAKLAND REMARKS
Mr. Walter Halbert, wife and two children of near Giddings, in Lee county, is visiting his uncle, Postmaster Mullin, in this place. Walter lived here many years ago, and here his mother died and was buried, at old Clear Creek graveyard. He has not been here for eight years, and his old friends were very glad to see him and his interesting family.
Weimar Mercury, August 8, 1891
OAKLAND REMARKS
The freedmen of this community deserve special praise for their enterprise in religious and educational matters. They have built, furnished and painted a beautiful church, and now have under construction, and nearing completion, a substantial 30 x 50 two-story school house. Isaac Smith and company are hustlers.
Elder Mason, the colored Methodist minister in charge here, has been changed to Halletsville, while Rev. Mose Smith of Waco takes his place.
Weimar Mercury, January 9, 1892
OAKLAND REMARKS
Of all the citizens that were here twenty-six years ago, there will be left only Mr. Van Wagner, Chas, Bock, jr. (native), myself and Wm. Isaac, colored. So the whole population—save four souls—has changed in that time.
Navidad
Weimar Mercury, January 23, 1892
Oakland Newsy Notes
It is a fact Christmas is coming. We hear of several Christmas trees being arranged for, especially one at the county line church, which is being looked forward to by the old folks as well as young folks of that vicinity with much interest and pleasure. Those interested met last Saturday evening the 3rd, and arranged for the occasion by organizing committees for a beautiful tree. Messrs. Luther Wade, C. A. Allen and J. M. Little were appointed to procure the tree and place it in order. Misses Maggie Long, Kate Wadsworth, Leonora Houchins, Susie Little, Addie Eason and Nellie Allen as the committee to dress the tree, Messrs. Jas. L. English, Jno. Wadsworth, M. R. Allen and Rob't Little as the committee to deliver the presents. The committee of arrangements extend invitations to all.
Colorado Citizen, December 8, 1892
Submitted by Deborah Smith
Oakland Newsy Notes
The Cuban Medicine Co. is here and had large audiences Friday and Saturday nights. They will remain several days. Mrs. W. F. Wood, the lady tooth extractor, has had daily exhibitions of her skill in extracting teeth, said to be done without pain. The company is selling their nostrums right along.
Colorado County Citizen, May 18, 1893
Submitted by Deborah Smith
Oakland Remarks
Miss Ollie Belle Hughes bade us adieu Tuesday morning and went to Weimar, where she accompanied Mr and Mrs. T. H. James on their northern trip this summer.
Weimar Mercury June 24, 1893
Oakland Remarks
Judge Jas English is erecting a nice buiolding north of the public square,between the storehouses of J. W. James and T. H. Mullin. The house will be used for his office, and a barber shop.
Gray Payne and brother, Josiah, have opened up a meat market on the square, and will butcher regularly twice a week—Wednesday and Saturday.
Weimar Mercury, August 12, 1893
The Oakland schoolhouse and Masonic hall burned Sunday morning. The fire could be seen from Weimar. It is supposed that the fire originated from some one throwing a lighted cigar stump into a box of sawdust that was used for a spittoon, as the Masonic lodge met in the hall that night, and the fire originated in the second story. All the school furniture was saved. No insurance on any of the property.
Weimar Mercury, July 29, 1893
OAKLAND REMARKS
Our butchers, Messrs. Gray and Josiah Payne, have sold out to Messrs. Wooldridge and brother, who will run it in the future.
Weimar Mercury, September 23, 1893
Oakland Newsy Notes:
As informed by a trustee, the public school of district No. 13, white, will open here next Monday, the 9th of October, and will be taught in the German hall, which has been secured by the trustees for that purpose. Let all interested be promptly on hand.
Colorado Citizen, October 5, 1893
Submitted by Deborah Smith
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We are indebted to Deborah Smith who is researching her great-great uncle James L. English for the following snippets of news from Oakland. All come from the Colorado Citizen, Oakland Newsy Notes
Oct 27, 1892-- Mr. C. A. Allen and James English, the latter a candidate for constable (wrong, he was a candidate for JP--DS) of precinct No. 3, were again in Oakland this week hustling among the voters.
Nov 24, 1892 --Justice court was in session here last Saturday and Justice James English, newly elect, assumed charge des affaires, Judge A. D. Clements turning the books over. J. J. Mansfield, county attorney, was present; and J. C. Kindred was in attendance also. The new docket presented very little for adjustment.
Dec 1, 1892--Cupid has been working wonders in this section during the month just passed...Mr. Otto Amman and Miss Mollie Lambkins were united in marriage, Justice James L. English performing the ceremony...
Dec 18, 1892--It is a fact Christmas is coming. We hear of several Christmas trees being arranged for, especially one at the county line church, which is being looked forward to by the old folks as well as young folks of that vicinity with much interest and pleasure. Those interested met last Saturday evening the 3rd, and arranged for the occasion by organizing committees for a beautiful tree. Messrs. Luther Wade, C. A. Allen and J. M. Little were appointed to procure the tree and place it in order. Misses Maggie Long, Kate Wadsworth, Leonora Houchins, Susie Little, Addie Eason and Nellie Allen as the committee to dress the tree, Messrs. Jas. L. English, Jno. Wadsworth, M. R. Allen and Rob't Little as the committee to deliver the presents. The committee of arrangements extend invitations to all.
Dec 22, 1892--Justice's court was in regular session here last Saturday all day, Judge English presiding.
Jan 5, 1893--Justice English has moved from his country home and now resides in the little city as one of her denizens.
Jan 19, 1893--Justice court will be convened here next Saturday in regular session. Justice J. L. English will preside. The docket is not so full as usual.
Feb 9, 1893--There are no fights or casualties to report this week. The justice is teaching school and the constable is out farming, for the town and neighborhood are unusually quiet...The public school, under the management of W. J. Hilderbrand and J. L. English as assistant, closed last Monday; private school commenced Tuesday morning.
Feb 23, 1893--Last Saturday being the third Saturday in February, Justice English held court. Only one or two minor cases came before his honor. They were minor fractures of the law, but sufficient to secure sugar and coffee for the court.
Mar 2, 1893--Justice English and Mr. John Wardsworth (probably Wadsworth--DS) are in Yoakum this week on special business, to be absent several days.
May 11, 1893--Judge English and Mr. Charles Strunk have been on the outings and are now back at home on duty.
May 25, 1893--Justice court was in regular session last Saturday, Justice J. L. English presiding. Several misdemeanors appearing on the docket.
July 20, 1893--Saturday was Justice English's regular court day at this place, and the docket showed some six or seven cases to be dealt with.
Aug 17, 1893--Mr. J. L. English, our magistrate, is erecting for himself a house on postoffice corner, to be used for a barber shop and courthouse, and when finished will add materially to the locality in which it is situated. It will be completed with a nice coat of paint, the inner walls to be touched with texedo (?) yellow...Next Saturday is regular court day here, and our justice reports several cases on the docket. The examining trial of the Litchey brothers will come up before his honor. County Attorney J. J. Mansfield, J. C. Kindred, H. C. Quin and other attorneys are to be present, and much court interest is looked for.
Sept 14, 1893--Judge J. L. English and Mr. Smith Van Wagner paid your city a visit this week.
Sept 21, 1893--Justice English held his court in the little court room on postoffice street last Saturday and the town was pretty full of country visitors, which seemed to enliven the merchants in buying cotton and selling goods, and your correspondent noticed the judge Monday applying the first coat of paint to the external walls of the little hall of justice...The Masons will have a regular meeting at the postoffice hall next Saturday night.
Oct 5, 1893--Mr. J. J. Mansfield, county attorney, was here last Monday looking after the little fractures of the law. We noticed him in close consultation in the little hall of justice with Constable Townsend and Justice English, and we learn that the docket will appear for adjudication the next sitting of the court on the 21s instant. Mr. Mansfield was fortunate enough to gather in a few shekels while here, regardless of the hard times, and as a matter of course there was a general setting up of smiles.
Oct 10, 1893--Mr. J. J. Mansfield, county attorney, was here last Monday looking after the little fractures of the law. We noticed him in close consultation in the little hall of justice with Constable Townsend and Justice English and we learn that the docket will appear for adjudication the next sitting of the court on the 21st instant.
Oct 21, 1893--There will be court here next Saturday--the 21st instant--at the little hall of justice. Justice J. L. English will preside. The docket will be closely scrutinized by some two or three attorneys, who will be present before the court and much interest may arise over legal points.
Oct 26, 1893--Justice court convened here last Saturday at the usual hour in the little hall of justice. Justice English presided with much dignity and Constable Townsend was very attentive. Attorneys J. C. Kindred and H. C. Quin of Wemar and County Attorney J. J. Mansfield of Columbus were present. The entire day was consumed upon causes appearing upon the docket. F. A. Strunk v. Will Granger, where plaintiff sues for ten dollars on verbal contract with parties after giving bill of sale for property. In this case testimony was allowed by the court on the verbal contract, J. J. Mansfield appearing for plaintiff and J. C. Kindred for defendant, and they argued the cause at great length. This is the second time that this case has appeared before this court and the jury failing at each time to agree.
Nov 2, 1893--Wednesday morning, in company of Capt. Sam H. Hancock, Judge Hancock, Esq. H. C. Quin and Col. Geo. Herder, we took our seat in a beautiful surry drawn by two pretty jet black horses with harness silver-tipped, and in less than two hours we found ourselves in the small but thriving little city of Oakland, which ranks as one of the best business points in the old county of Colorado. We stopped at August Strunk's business establishment, found it chock full of general merchandise which was in good condition. August has a eye for business, does a No. 1 trade, and notwithstanding these hard times, is making some money. We next stopped in to see Charlie Bock, and with others assisted to drop a bottle or two of beer out of sight. As the morning was warm and our throats dusty we thought it advisable to clean them up so as to be in good condition to testify when called upon in a case in court. Called upon Dr. Clayton Bouldin and took note of his drug store, which would be creditable anywhere. In our rounds entered the storehouse of Woolsey Bros., who carry a good stock, and from what we heard are doing a good business. Then we struck Deep Water John, who we found busily engaged in diving into a large mail sack taking out the billet doux, circulars, duns, letters, periodicals and goodness knows what and placing them in their respective places for delivery. He is a polite and efficient postmaster and everybody likes him. Mr. Tom Mullin carries a well selected stock of fancy candies and groceries in the same bulding and is getting along finely. Then we struck the courtroom and our eyes struck sight of Judge English, who was seated at his stand busy looking over some legal documents which were to occupy the attention of the court that day. We also found out that the room was used as a barbershop, and that the Judge when not on the bench was sole executioner in the tonsorial establishment. Then we sauntered into Mr. Joda James' store, found it packed with goods and his clerk informed us that they were doing extra well for these hard times and had no reason to complain. Then crossing the square we took a bird's eye view of the store of Mr. Van Wagner, found the old gentleman within and as jovial as ever--says he knows times are dull but keeps in the lead with the best of 'em. Court was then called and we found it the case where Mrs. Ella Holloway was plaintiff and J. A. Van Alstyne defendant, in which we were a witness. After testifying we strolled around town, met the well known, highly honored and much thought of Dr. Hutchins, (Oakland correspondent of CITIZEN) who would have us go to dinner with him--so in company with George Herder and William Crebbs we went to the home of the doctor where we met his amiable wife and daughters, was seated to a dinner that would have made a king's mouth water...After our sumptuous repast returned to the courtroom, where we sat an hour or two listening to the eloquent words of wisdom as they fell from the lips of Esquires Quin and Kindred, who took turn about in speechmaking. Supper time came--case not yet turned over to the jury. Meeting Mr. H. J. Strunk (everybody's friend) was were cordially invited to supper. We accepted and soon was ushered into his palatial residence, which is certainly an ornament to the city of Oakland. After a No. 1 supper we heard some good singing by the little daughter of the house, had a genuine old-fashioned chat with the hostess, passing a most agreeable hour--returning to the courtroom to find that the whole day's work resulted in a hung jury. Now for the fun of the entire day. The jury created a ripple of amusement that certainly astonished the oldest lawyers. The jury was a good one; wanted to do what they thought correct; and as a consequence agreed to disagree, but wanted to wind up with a little fun with his honor which was thrown back on their shoulders as the story will show. Messrs. John P. Woolsey, H. L. Wade, W. T. Eason, A. B. Wooldridge, Wm. Grobe and J. W. James, were the jurors. The jury after being out some time that night, returned and reported that they could not agree. They were returned and after about a half hour's argument they returned. Judge English remarking: "Well, gentlemen, have you found a verdict?" "Oh yes, " replied the Foreman Woolsey. "Well, pass it up," replied the judge; to which the foreman entered a demurrer by claiming the jury fee before rendering the verdict. The plaintiff immediately put up six brand new shining halves, which were handed to the jury, who were all standing at a parade rest--each member flanking his 4-bit piece as soon as received. The foreman, after satisfying himself that the money rested safely in the very lowest corner of each juror's pocket turned to the Judge and said: "Your Honor, we the jury empaneled in this case have come to the positive conclusion that we have agreed to disagree." The judge looked blank; a puzzled expression played over the countenance of Attorneys Quin and Kindred, while the spectators were convulsed with laughter. His Honor turned to them with all the dignity of a disciplinarian saying: "Gentlemen that is no verdict--you will please return the money," while Lawyer Quin explained to them using the statutes as authority showing the proper meaning of a verdict but all to no purpose. They had their fees and intended to hold on to them. His Honor then said: " I give you five minutes to return the money," and ordered Constable Townsend to pass the hat around to them, asking the return of the money. One of the jurors recanted, went down in his jeans and drew forth the shining metal which was deposited before the Judge--the other five still refusing to discourge (sic). Finally the justice, becoming somewhat riled at their refusal, said: "Gentlemen, I will fine you $2.50 each for contempt of court, and order you to remain in the hands of the officer until the fine be paid"--ordered the jury discharged as far as the case was concerned, and court adjourned until next regular term, when the case will again be taken up. The five jurymen started out, when Mr. Townsend modistly (sic) told them to "hold on--it was not a case of 50 cents but a matter of two dollars and fifty cents." Then came an argument or two, the jurymen finding that there being more truth than poetry in the affair, sauntered up to his Honor, asked their fine remitted which he did on their returning the fifty cents and advised them to go and sin no more. Your reporter left (for) home at 8:30 p.m., well satisfied with the day spent in the thriving little village of Oakland.
Dec 14, 1893--Those of special mention out from the city this week on business are ...Judge J. L. English to Columbus...
Dec 21, 1893--Justice court was in regular session here last Saturday at the little hall of justice. The docket was not so fully crowded as of former sessions, but enough to keep his honor busy the greater portion of the day. County Attorney J. J. Mansfield was present. He was accompanied by Marshal S. H. Reese of Columbus, who was a witness before the court.
Dec 28, 1893--The Judge in precinct No. 4 (who is a bachelor) in a certain case according to outside testimony was stuck on a young lady. The boys don't blame him, and if they can intercede in his behalf they certainly will do so.
The justice court was busy all day Friday trying the case of Fritz Boecker, Sr., wherein he was charged with assault on his son's wife, by drawing a knife on her. Attorney Kindred fought nobly for his client, and was ably combatted by the able County Attorney J. J. Mansfield, who has grown to be quite a power in the land. The jury was out some fifteen minutes and found the following verdict: "We, the jury find the defendant Fritz Boeker, guilty of an assault as charged in the complaint, and assess his punishment at a fine of $10. Signed M. L. Griffin foreman, " to which the counsel for defense gave notice of appeal. Attorney Mansfield says Kindred has got to be a No. 1 attorney, has law points down to the finger's end and is hard to down.
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Weimar Local Matters
Wednesday morning, in company of Capt. Sam H. Hancock, Judge Hancock, Esq. H. C. Quin and Col. Geo. Herder, we took our seat in a beautiful surry drawn by two pretty jet black horses with harness silver-tipped, and in less than two hours we found ourselves in the small but thriving little city of Oakland, which ranks as one of the best business points in the old county of Colorado. We stopped at August Strunk's business establishment, found it chock full of general merchandise which was in good condition. August has a eye for business, does a No. 1 trade, and notwithstanding these hard times, is making some money. We next stopped in to see Charlie Bock, and with others assisted to drop a bottle or two of beer out of sight. As the morning was warm and our throats dusty we thought it advisable to clean them up so as to be in good condition to testify when called upon in a case in court. Called upon Dr. Clayton Bouldin and took note of his drug store, which would be creditable anywhere. In our rounds entered the storehouse of Woolsey Bros., who carry a good stock, and from what we heard are doing a good business. Then we struck Deep Water John, who we found busily engaged in diving into a large mail sack taking out the billet doux, circulars, duns, letters, periodicals and goodness knows what and placing them in their respective places for delivery. He is a polite and efficient postmaster and everybody likes him. Mr. Tom Mullin carries a well selected stock of fancy candies and groceries in the same bulding and is getting along finely. Then we struck the courtroom and our eyes struck sight of Judge English, who was seated at his stand busy looking over some legal documents which were to occupy the attention of the court that day. We also found out that the room was used as a barbershop, and that the Judge when not on the bench was sole executioner in the tonsorial establishment. Then we sauntered into Mr. Joda James' store, found it packed with goods and his clerk informed us that they were doing extra well for these hard times and had no reason to complain. Then crossing the square we took a bird's eye view of the store of Mr. Van Wagner, found the old gentleman within and as jovial as ever--says he knows times are dull but keeps in the lead with the best of 'em. Court was then called and we found it the case where Mrs. Ella Holloway was plaintiff and J. A. Van Alstyne defendant, in which we were a witness. After testifying we strolled around town, met the well known, highly honored and much thought of Dr. Hutchins, (Oakland correspondent of CITIZEN) who would have us go to dinner with him--so in company with George Herder and William Crebbs we went to the home of the doctor where we met his amiable wife and daughters, was seated to a dinner that would have made a king's mouth water...After our sumptuous repast returned to the courtroom, where we sat an hour or two listening to the eloquent words of wisdom as they fell from the lips of Esquires Quin and Kindred, who took turn about in speechmaking. Supper time came--case not yet turned over to the jury. Meeting Mr. H. J. Strunk (everybody's friend) we were cordially invited to supper. We accepted and soon was ushered into his palatial residence, which is certainly an ornament to the city of Oakland. After a No. 1 supper we heard some good singing by the little daughter of the house, had a genuine old-fashioned chat with the hostess, passing a most agreeable hour--returning to the courtroom to find that the whole day's work resulted in a hung jury. Now for the fun of the entire day. The jury created a ripple of amusement that certainly astonished the oldest lawyers. The jury was a good one; wanted to do what they thought correct; and as a consequence agreed to disagree, but wanted to wind up with a little fun with his honor which was thrown back on their shoulders as the story will show. Messrs. John P. Woolsey, H. L. Wade, W. T. Eason, A. B. Wooldridge, Wm. Grobe and J. W. James, were the jurors. The jury after being out some time that night, returned and reported that they could not agree. They were returned and after about a half hour's argument they returned. Judge English remarking: "Well, gentlemen, have you found a verdict?" "Oh yes, " replied the Foreman Woolsey. "Well, pass it up," replied the judge; to which the foreman entered a demurrer by claiming the jury fee before rendering the verdict. The plaintiff immediately put up six brand new shining halves, which were handed to the jury, who were all standing at a parade rest--each member flanking his 4-bit piece as soon as received. The foreman, after satisfying himself that the money rested safely in the very lowest corner of each juror's pocket turned to the Judge and said: "Your Honor, we the jury empaneled in this case have come to the positive conclusion that we have agreed to disagree." The judge looked blank; a puzzled expression played over the countenance of Attorneys Quin and Kindred, while the spectators were convulsed with laughter. His Honor turned to them with all the dignity of a disciplinarian saying: "Gentlemen that is no verdict--you will please return the money," while Lawyer Quin explained to them using the statutes as authority showing the proper meaning of a verdict but all to no purpose. They had their fees and intended to hold on to them. His Honor then said: " I give you five minutes to return the money," and ordered Constable Townsend to pass the hat around to them, asking the return of the money. One of the jurors recanted, went down in his jeans and drew forth the shining metal which was deposited before the Judge--the other five still refusing to discourge (sic). Finally the justice, becoming somewhat riled at their refusal, said: "Gentlemen, I will fine you $2.50 each for contempt of court, and order you to remain in the hands of the officer until the fine be paid"--ordered the jury discharged as far as the case was concerned, and court adjourned until next regular term, when the case will again be taken up. The five jurymen started out, when Mr. Townsend modistly (sic) told them to "hold on--it was not a case of 50 cents but a matter of two dollars and fifty cents." Then came an argument or two, the jurymen finding that there being more truth than poetry in the affair, sauntered up to his Honor, asked their fine remitted which he did on their returning the fifty cents and advised them to go and sin no more. Your reporter left (for) home at 8:30 p.m., well satisfied with the day spent in the thriving little village of Oakland.
Colorado County Citizen, November 2, 1893
Submitted by Deborah Smith
Oakland Remarks
Judge English and Misses Nannie Townsend and Mamie Laidley went fishing Wednesday. The judge reports about as good luck fishing on dry land as in the creek.
Weimar Mercury, March 17, 1894
Notes from Oakland
Once more Oakland is to be honored with the presence of a presiding elder. On Tuesday and Wednesday nights of next week Rev. S. H. Morgan will meet his people the last time this conference year and possibly the last time on earth forever. His presiding elder, the Rev. J. B. Srare, has expressed a desire to be with him and tell the M.E. church here why it has been isolated and expunged from the conference work. The Methodists of Oakland feel justly hurt at the manner in which they have been treated. There are members here who took their church vows more than fifty years ago. They have ever been faithful and true to the cause of Christ and the principles of Methodism, and have every had paternal recognition by the conference ‘til the conference of Dec. 1893 left them to the cold mercies of the world without a pastor and without a benediction. When that noble, christian spirited, God loving and church saving divine, Rev. S. H. Morgan, saw the great injustice thrust upon the church at Oakland he put himself on double duty and has served this people with ability and christian fidelity. He has a host of warm friends who with one accord hope to see him returned to Weimar--for then, we too, will expect a pastor to preach to us, to pray with us and be our shepherd and our guide for another year. God bless Bro. Morgan is the real prayer of every Methodist in Oakland. Here we have a splendid church house, both elegantly seated and lighted, and a roll upon the church book that would indicate a living church and not a dead one.
Weimar Mercury, November 1, 1894
County Line cor. Halletsville Herald: J. L. English, justice of Oakland, has notified the citizens that he will resign his office. A petition has been circulated and will be presented to the commissioners’ court of Colorado county asking that H. J. Strunk be appointed to fill the vacancy.
Weimar Mercury, June 29, 1895
Oakland Letter
On last Sabbath the M. E. Sunday school at Oakland underwent the pleasant duties of a reorganization, with Capt. J. M. Woolsey as superintendent and Mr. F. A. Lauterbach as secretary. The folowing classes were arranged, teachers appointed and pupils awarded, viz:
Bible class--C. R. Grobe, teacher; Misses Mary Walker, Della McKennon, Pearl Woolsey, Alma Strunk, Mr. J. W. Lauterback.
Class No. 1. Senior Quarterly__R. S. Hughes, teacher; Misses Callie Hutchins, Jennie Hughes, Messrs. Willie Albert, Oliver Bock, Arthur Woolsey.
Class No. 2, Senior quarterly--Miss Ola Hutchins, teacher; Misses Lula Albert, Lydia Bock, Allie Grobe, Bertha Harris, Emma Strunk, Estelle Van Wagner, Mr. Morris Woolsey.
Class No. 3, Intermediate Quarterly--Mrs. I. A. Strunk, teacher; Miss Inez Woolsey, Messrs. Simpson Hughes, Charlie Pierce, Forrest Hutchins, Ira Simmons, Morritz Strunk.
Class No. 4, Lesson Paper--Mr. F. F. Grobe, teacher; Misses Hallie Bock, Ollie Hughes, Vallie Strunk, Messrs. Valentine Albert, Gordon Burke, Oscar Strunk.
Class No. 5, Our Little People--Mrs. Annie James, teacher; Misses Katie Hutchins, Birdie Woolsey, Gladys Woolsey, Masters Frances Hughes, Clifton Woolsey, Eric Strunk.
Misses Mary Walker and Ola Hutchins were appointed organists.
Weimar Mercury, February 13, 1897, page 1
J. P. Woolsey
An Appreciated Letter.
Waco. Texas, Sept. 22, 1908. Editor Mercury:
I am enclosing check for $1.50 in payment for the Mercury for another year. Mrs. Woolsey and I are each very fond of the Weimar Mercury, and we also like its editor, too, so we will ask that you keep it coming. It serves a purpose that no other paper does --it is every week brim full of something that is of great interest to us. We love our old Colorado county friends, and about the only way we ever hear from them is through the Mercury. God bless you, my brother, and may He permit you to live long in the betterment of your people.
Mrs. Woolsey and I celebrated our 31st marriage anniversary on last Sunday, the 20th. The result of that union is twelve children, eleven of whom are living, one (our little boy, Chester Laidley) having been buried at the old family graveyard near Oakland. Mrs. Woolsey and I are each in the very best of good health, weigh over 200 pounds apiece, and work full six days in each week in the offices of the supreme council of the Home Circle Society of Texas. While we have not accumulated much of this world's goods, yet we have a nice home in this, one of the most beautiful cities of Texas, and God being our helper, we hope to lift the last mortgage before the close of A. D. 1909. Since leaving dear old Colorado county, our history has been varied, and we have encountered all kinds of hardships; but, thank God, we are all still alive, enjoying good health and have some thing to eat every day. God has been with us all the time, and while He has not conducted us in paths literally lined with riches and glittering things, yet we have never wanted for bread Pardon me for detaining you, for I know that your time is all taken up; but we just have to let a little of it out some times. Good-bye. J. P. Woolsey.
Weimar Mercury, September 25, 1908, page 8
Oakland News Notes.
One of the severest storms this place ever witnessed visited us last Wednesday afternoon and night, leaving destruction in its path. Our church was damaged to such an extent we fear it will have to be torn down and be rebuilt. The colored M. E. church and schoolhouse were blown all to pieces, several barns completely demolished, fences and windmills suffered considerably, trees blown up by the roots, and limbs broken off in very direction. The loss Oakland sustained is estimated at $5000.
The up land cotton looks very badly since the storm, and a great deal of the corn was blown flat to the ground, especially the corn that was not topped.
Weimar Mercury, September 30, 1909, page 1
Trip to Oakland
The Mercury editor accompanied by Hans Brasher visited Oakland last Saturday--going over in the editor’s Ford car. About the first thing Charley Strunk asked us when we arrived, was “How is the road?’ If “Charlie” had not been one of our particular friends, whom we have known for the past thirty years, we would have hit him. Roads” Ask John Bock. We were surprised to find so much trading there,but come to think of it, it is nothing to be suprised[sic] at either, when you consider that the merchants there all handle a full line of up to date goods, and nothing surprised us more than to find such a well stocked drug store, as the one now owned by Mr. F. G. Speck, who is W. C. Bouldin’s successor, and to find it in such a neat, clean and well kept order, every line of goods is displayed to advantage.
Mr. Sparks, who is he successor of C. F. Laas, was busy making some alterations in the store and applying the paint brush. We found Mrs. Sparks a very sociable and wide-awake business man, who has many friends. The fact that both Mr. Sparks and Mr. Speck, the drug store man, are wide-awake and live business men is attested by the fact each one has contracted for advertising space in the Mercury.
Mr. Chas. Sciba can also be classed among the live ones at Oakland, he is a great chicken fancier and believes in the White Orpingtons. He has the prize winning kind. He also has an ad in this issue. Mr. Sciba believes in advertising also, for he said to us: “If I hadn’t read about the W. O. and then read an ad. where to buy them, I may not be in the chicken business today.”
Messrs. Mays and Strunk were actually so busy waiting on customers that they could not talk to us.
Frank Drozd, who conducts the blacksmith shop there,was quite busy to, while Squire Pitts was very busy reading p on points of law getting ready for his regular court day. He said he expected a suit to e entered by Hans Brasher against Chas. Strunk, the nature of which will be (so Brasher will claim) that Chas Strunk talked him speechless, which he will try to prove by “Mem Rhodes.”
We also added several new names to our subscription list. Las, but not least, we want to thank Olive Bock, Chas. Strunk and John and Aug. Schimcek for favors shown us an d assure the people of Oakland we appreciate their hospitable treatment and will come again, if we can slip away from Hans Brasher,
Weimar Mercury, February 7, 1913
Oakland News
School has been suspended here for an indefinite period, to prevent the spread of the influenza. The white population has escaped so far, only two or three cases in town, and they were of a very light form. But the colored people have been terribly afflicted. In some homes all the members of the family are sick, either with influenza or pneumonia. John Thomas (colored) who moved from here last year, was buried last week.
Weimar Mercury, October 25, 1918
LOSES HOME AND CONTENTS
Sunday night a week ago the farm home occupied by Youman Smith, a colored tenant of Chas. Frazer, near Oakland, together with all its contents, was destroyed by fire.
Weimar Mercury, October 25, 1918, page 4
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