HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 Brazos Genealogist Vol XXVII No. 3Brazos Genealogist
CONTENTS PAGE
Brazos County residents...................................Bill Page 83
From the Editor’s Desk ............................................91
The 1885 Railroad Tragedy in Brazos County, Texas ..........Bill Benner 91
Opening of the LaSalle Hotel .......................................94
Descendants of Martin F. Jakubicek..................................96
Select Occupations as Listed on 1870 Census ................Ruth Hary 97
Dating Tombstones ..............................................99
Articles from Bryan Eagle .................................Jane Horn 99
Brazos County Churches ..................................Bill Page 107
Business Issue - Apr. 22, 1913 .............................Janis Hunt 112
Index compiled by.....................................Ron Hambric 117
BRAZOS GENEALOGIST
VOLUME XXVII NUMBER 3
SUMMER 2006
BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION
P. O. BOX 5493 BRYAN TX 77805-5493
OFFICERS 2006
PRESIDENT ............JANE HORN
jhorn730@cox.net
VICE PRES ........VICKI SIMMONS
victsimons@aol.com
SECRETARY .....LOIS CARPENTER
TREASURER ...........RUTH HARY
rhary@txcyber.com
EDITOR ............RON HAMBRIC
ron@hambric.us
STAFF EDITORS
MEMBERSHIP .........ALLEN DEAN
asdean96@cox.net
PUBLICITY .............LUCI CASH
RESEARCH/QUERIES ....RUTH HARY
LOCAL HISTORY ....... RUTH HARY
CONTINUING SERIES .....BILL PAGE
PRINTING/INDEXING .RON HAMBRIC
MEETINGS
Meetings held the third Monday of each
month from 7:00 pm to 8:45 pm in the
Bryan Public Library. Please arrive early as
the library closes at 9:00 pm.
Membership is on a calendar year
basis, January through December.
QUARTERLY
The GENEALOGIST is published as
W inter, Spring, Summer and Fall Issues.
Each volume of the GENEALOGIST
corresponds with the membership year.
This publication is offered in print or
electronic (PDF) version. With PDF you
receive CD at end of year with four issues
plus copies of handouts from meetings.
$15.00 / year if printed version picked
up at meetings or PDF selected and CD
picked up.
$20.00 / year if quarterly mailed or PDF
version with CD mailed.
Checks for dues may be mailed to the
address at the top of the page.
WEB SITE
The web site for the Brazos
Genealogical Association is:
http://www.brazosgenealogy.org
EXCHANGE
The GENEALOGIST is available for
exchange with other organizations or
publishers who have publications to offer.
Send inquiries or samples to P.O. Box
5493, Bryan, TX 77805-5493.
SOLICITATIONS
W e solicit queries, family charts,
copies of Bible records, articles and
stories with Brazos Valley ties. Family
charts should be 8 ½” x 11".
EDITORIAL POLICY
Neither the Brazos Genealogical
Association nor the staff of the Quarterly
will be responsible for error of fact or
opinion expressed herein. Every effort is
made to publish reliable information. The
editorial staff reserves the right to accept
appropriate material with editing privileges
on a space available basis.
Members are encouraged to submit
pictures/articles of interest concerning the
Brazos Valley. Research pertaining to
deeds, Bible records, schools, churches,
and other groups or organizations are
desired. Research on material before the
turn of the century is especially welcome.
The Association will do limited local
Brazos Co. research for $10.00 / hour.
W rite for details and please enclose a
SASE.
83
Brazos Genealogist
Volume XXVII Number 3 Bryan/College Station
Summer 2006 Texas
Brazos County Residents
by Bill PAGE
Sample of families who have lived in Brazos County. A continuing series.
14 Feb. 1996
VALENTA family
"Luskach-Valenta," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 13 May 1915, p.8, col.1. M i s s J o s e p h i n e
VALENTA
"Joseph Valenta is Dead at Camp Dix," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 3 Oct. 1918, p.3, col.5. Son
of Mrs. Frank VALENTA
VANDIVER family
*Delegate to Bryan convention, (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 3 Apr. 1890, p.4, col.4. J.J.
VANDIVER
"Japanese Cane," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 16 Nov. 1916, p.5, col.6. J.J. VANDIVER
"Pioneer Citizen of Steep Hollow Succumbs Today," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 30 Dec. 1936,
p.1, col.2. J.J. VANDIVER
VAN HOOK, W illis (ca. 1820-1907). African American; Bryan alderman;
minister; blacksmith
*Appointed Bryan alderman, 4 Dec. 1871, Texas Election Registers 1838-1972
*Chosen as alternate to State Republican convention, (Austin) Daily State Journal, 1 May
1872, p.4
*Appointed Bryan alderman, 25 July 1870, Texas Election Registers 1838-1972
"Parson W illis VAN HOOK...died...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 3 Oct. 1907, p.3, col.2
"Hustler Killed W oman," Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 Aug. 1911, p.2, col.5. Elmira, widow of
"Parson" VAN HOOK
VARISCO, Brazos Anthony (12 Oct. 1902-25 July 1970). Buried Mt. Calvary Cemetery;
Italian American businessman
"Brazos A. Varisco," Central Texas Business and Professional Directory, p.394
84
"Brazos Varisco and Lucile Scardino are Married Bryan Today," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 13
Nov. 1924, p.4, col.4
"Life Story of Tony Varisco," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 16 Apr. 1925, p.8, col.1
"Italian Couple W ell Known Here Married Sunday," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 7 Nov. 1929, p.6,
col.8. Palma VARISCO, sister of Brazos VARISCO
"Varisco Honored; Will Represent Italian Consul," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 4 Sept. 1930, p.1,
col.4
"Brazos Tourists Arrive Safe in City of Naples," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 25 June 1931, p.3,
col.2. Parents of Brazos VARISCO
"Brazos County Folks See Sunny Italy," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 16 July 1931, p.5, col.5
"Folks We Know," Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 Dec. 1931, p.7, cols. 5-6. A n t o n i o "T o n y "
VARISCO
"W ork to Accredit Italian in Public Schools of Texas," Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 June 1934,
p.5, col.3
"Cotton Dusting Company Formed By Young Planter," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 4 Aug. 1937,
p.1, col.5; p.6, col.2
"Two Mules Killed by Hunters; Land is Posted Today," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 Nov. 1937,
p.1, col.5 Brazos VARISCO
"Varisco to Show Future Farmers Aerial Dusting," Bryan Daily Eagle, 19 July 1939, p.1,
col.8
"Gulf States Co. Plant Bought by Brazos Varisco," Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 Apr. 1940, p.1,
col.1
"Bryan High School Seniors and Teachers Honored at Varisco Home," Bryan Daily Eagle,
11 May 1942, p.4, col.2
"Varisco Sells Planes for Lack of Pilots," Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 Apr. 1943, p.1, col.5
"Varisco Buyer of Foster Farm Land; Sold at $15,000," Bryan Daily Eagle, 16 Dec. 1943,
p.6, cols.6-7
"Varisco Buyer of Stewart Building; $12,000 is Paid," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 Apr. 1944, p.1,
col.1
"Varisco is Buyer of Another Block on Main Street," Bryan Daily Eagle, 17 Apr. 1944, p.1,
col.7
"Brazos Varisco Buys Zimmerman Block on Main," Bryan Daily Eagle, 21 Dec. 1944, p.1,
col.7
"Miss Dorothy Varisco Named Honoree at W einer Roast," Bryan Daily Eagle, 17 May
1945, p.3, cols.1-2
"Major Farm Deal by Variscos is Made of Record," Bryan Daily Eagle,18 Jan. 1946, p.1,
col.4
"Varisco Reports Farm Land Sales; Starts Building," Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 Apr. 1947, p.2,
col.4
"Builders Supply Here Bought by Brazos Varisco," Bryan Daily Eagle, 13 May 1947, p.1,
col.3
"Name Varisco as President of Bryan C.C.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 Nov. 1948, pp.1, 3
"Varisco Purchases Cotton Compress; W ill Improve It," Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 Jan. 1949,
p.1, col.1
"Varisco Slates Formal Opening for Skyscraper," Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 May 1949, p.1, col.4
85
"Varisco's Story of Success Reads Like an Alger Tale," Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 May 1949,
p.1, cols.6-8
"Varisco Building Formally Opens With Snip of Tape at 5 p.m. Thursday," Bryan Daily
Eagle, 21 May 1949, p.1
"Varisco Resigns as President of Bryan C.C.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 Aug. 1949, pp.1, 8
"Miss Dorothy Varisco Becomes Bride of Frank A. Irwin Sunday," Bryan Daily Eagle,
19 Sept. 1949, p.4, cols.1-2. Sister of Brazos VARISCO
"Varisco Accepts CROP Presidency," Bryan Daily Eagle, 28 Sept. 1949, p.1, cols.6-7
"Jean Edward Donaho and Bride on Honeymoon in Puerto Rico," Bryan Daily Eagle,
30 Oct. 1950, p.3. Dorothy, daughter of Brazos VARISCO
"Mrs. Scardino Dies at Home Here Friday," Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 Apr. 1954, p.9, col.5.
Mrs. Lena SCARDINO, mother of Mrs. Brazos VARISCO
"Varisco To Buy Court Sandstone," Bryan Daily Eagle, 3 June 1954, p.1, cols.2-3
"Brazos Varisco Buys Old Jail," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 Apr. 1955, p.1, cols.2-3
"Festive Tea in Varisco Home to be Dec. 12," Bryan Daily Eagle, 7 Dec. 1956, p.6, col.1
"Varisco Gives Donation to Gause Church," Bryan Daily Eagle, 28 Mar. 1957, p.5, col.5
"4 Banks Elect New Directors," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 Jan. 1964, p.10, col.3
"Varisco Buys Parker-Astin Inc.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 May 1966, sect.A, p.1, col.6
"Varisco Buys City Block," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 May 1967, sect.A, p.6, col.3
"Varisco Purchases CNB Land," Bryan Daily Eagle, 16 Jan. 1968, p.2, col.4
Hale, Leon, "The Story of Brazos Varisco," Houston Post, 15 Sept. 1969, section 5, p.3,
col.3
"Brazos Varisco Dies in Houston Hospital," Daily Eagle, 26 July 1970, p.1
"Final Tributes Paid to Brazos Varisco," Daily Eagle, 27 July 1970, p.1
"Mrs. Dorotea Varisco Dies at 97," Bryan-College Station Eagle, 14 Jan. 1982, sect.B, p.8,
col.2. Mother of Brazos VARISCO
Snell, Jan, "Varisco Building Reminder of Past," Bryan-College Station Eagle, 25 June
1982, sect.A, p.4, col.1
VAVARA/VAVRA family
"Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vavra," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 28 Dec. 1922, p.4,
col.4
"Infant Son of Mr. and Mrs. Vavara is Buried on Monday," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 17 Apr.
1924, p.3, col.5. W illie Vincent VAVARA
"Frank Vavara Painfully Hurt in Fall Off Train," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 14 May 1925, p.1,
col.8
"Rock Prairie Man Favors Creamery; Lives from Farm," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 24 Jan.
1929, p.4, col.4. W m. VAVRA
"Miss Helen Bajinski is Bride of Frank Vavra Monday," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 Oct. 1937,
p.3, col.1
VESMIROVSKY, Charles (Bryan merchant)
"Charlie Vesmirovski says he is now...," Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 Aug. 1896, p.4, col.2
"Band Organized," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 20 Oct. 1898, p.2, col.4
"Char l i e Vesm ir o vski planted out eigh t y cabbage p l a n t s ...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 26 Feb.
86
1903, p.7, col.2
"J.J. Konecny, Chas. Vesmirovski and others, while on the Navasota River Thursday
morning saw an object in the heavens which they think may have been an airship...,"
Bryan Morning Eagle, 28 Jan. 1905, p.3, col.2
"Air Ship Mystery Solved," Bryan Morning Eagle, 20 Jan. 1905, p.2, col.2
"Burglars at W ork," Bryan Morning Eagle, 24 Mar. 1905, p.2, col.4
"Chas. Vesmirovsky, Joe Kopecky and Frank Stasney have returned from a trip to
Laredo...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 4 Mar. 1909, p.5, col.3
"Versmivosky-Boehme," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 6 Oct. 1910, p.2, col. 4. John, son of
Charles VERSMIROVSKY
"Automobile Accident," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 Sept. 1911, p.4, col.2
"Coleman-Vesmirovsky," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 16 Nov. 1911, p.8, col.3. Emma, daughter
of Charles VESMIROVSKY
"Burglary Last Night," Bryan Daily Eagle, 2 Jan. 1912, p.1, col.6
"Chas. Vesmirovsky, Retail Liquor Dealer," Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 Apr. 1913, sect.1, p.7,
col.5
"Death of John Vesmirovsky," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 18 Dec. 1913, p.4, col.6
"Chas. Vesmirovksy Made Assignment," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 3 Dec. 1914, p.1, col.2
"Bought Bankrupt Stock," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 17 Dec. 1914, p.3, c o l .5 C h a r l e s
VESMIROVSKY
VICK family -- many family members buried at Bryan
"A.O.U.W . Installation," Galveston Daily News, 13 Jan. 1894, p.3, col.3
"Brick Plant for Bryan," Brazos Pilot, 24 May 1906, p.10, col.2. John VICK
"John Vick Secures Lease," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 21 June 1906, p.4, col.3
"W ill Enlarge Milling Plant," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 17 June 1909, p.1, col.2. John C. VICK
"John C. Vick for Alderman," Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 Feb. 1912, p.2, col.4
"W ill Build New Home," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 5 July 1933, p.6, col.4. Roy M. VICK
"Funeral Service for Aged Citizen on Monday Morn," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 11 July 1934,
p.1, col.6. Daniel C. VICK
"Funeral Service Held Today for Late John Vick," Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 June 1935, p.1,
col.5
"Mrs. Ketterson Funeral Service This Afternoon," Bryan Daily Eagle, 4 Jan. 1938, p.1,
col.4. Mrs. Ruth KETTERSON, daughter of C.C. VICK
"Capt. Roy Vick, Jr. Lost W hen Prison Ship Sunk by Sub," Bryan Daily Eagle, 21 June
1945, p.1, col.1
VITOPIL/VYTOPIL families
"Improved Cotton Reports," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 15 June 1899, p.3, col.5. M.F. VITOPIL
"Lero-Vitopil," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 4 July 1907, p.7, col.3. Miss Josie VITOPIL
"Death of a Little Boy," Brazos Pilot, 28 May 1908, p.6, col.2. Son of Peter VITOPIL
"Death of a Child," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 28 May 1908, p.2, col.3 Child of Mat VITOPIL
"Vitopil-W einzetter," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 18 May 1916, p.5, col.4. Frank J. VITOPIL
"Child Hurt," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 22 Feb. 1917, p.2, col.6. Daughter of P.J. VYTOPIL.
"Mrs. Vitopil Dead, Resident 41 Years," Bryan Daily Eagle, 16 Feb.1918, p.4, col.3. Mrs.
87
Mary VITOPIL
"Peter Vitopil is Dead After Short Siege of Grippe," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 17 Oct. 1918, p.2,
col.3
"Frank Vitopil Car is W recked By H.& T.C. Train," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 14 Jan. 1926, p.2,
col.4
"Home is Burned Early on Sunday; All Family Away," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 24 Sept. 1931,
p.5, col.5. Frank VITOPIL
"Gets W ings Today," Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 Oct. 1942, p.6, col.2. Frank VITOPIL
"Miss Estelle Murray is Bride of Lt. Frank J. Vitopil, Jr.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 Oct. 1942,
p.6, col.4
*Article about Frank and Albina VITOPIL, Bryan Daily Eagle, 6 Sept. 1981, sect.C, p.1,
col.1
VYMOLA family (also see W YMOLA family). Czech-American family
"Paul Vymola, 19, Dies at Kurten," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 8 Mar. 1928, p.4, col.2
"Birthday Dinner is Given Sunday for Joe Vymola," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 28 Nov. 1929,
p.4, col.4
"Funeral Service Thursday Morning for Joe Vymola," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 26 Oct. 1932,
p.1, col.5
"Funeral Service Thursday Morning for Mrs. Vymola," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 4 Jan. 1933,
p.2, col.5
"Fort Worth W oman, Former Resident, Succumbs Today," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 May
1937, p.1, col.7. Mrs. Christina VYMOLA BLAZEK
"Adolph Vymola Funeral is Held at St. Joseph's," Bryan Daily Eagle, 10 July 1939, p.1,
col.4
WADE, Thos. E. (1850-1925). Buried W ellborn
"Mr. T.E. Wade of Wellborn called at The Eagle office...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 6 Oct.
1898, p.6, col.2
"Mr. W ade Talks About Lamps for the Boll Weevils and Sharp-shooters," (weekly)
Bryan Eagle, 20 June 1901, p.3, col.6
"Mrs. Cora Wade," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 12 Oct. 1916, p.5, col.5. W ife of T.E. W ADE.
"Thomas Wade Died at Farm Home Near Wellborn on Friday," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 12
Feb. 1925, p.2
"James W . Wade Dead Near Bryan," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 3 Mar. 1927, p.2, cols.7-8.
Son of T.E. W ADE.
Soundex Code: W 300
1880 Grimes Co. census: p.86
1900 Brazos Co. census: ED 5, sheet 2?, line 28 ????????
1910 Brazos Co. census: ED 14, sheet 18
1920 Brazos Co. census: ED 13, sheet 6, line 70
88
WAGNER, A.J. -- Bryan merchant
"W agner & Brandon's Millinery Opening," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 13 Apr. 1905, p.6, col.4
"W agner & Brandon Millinery Opening," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 11 Oct. 1906, p.9, col.1
"W agner & Brandon Making Improvements," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 2 May 1907, p.1, col.6
"W agner & Brandon's Millinery Opening," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 3 Oct. 1907, p.3, col.5
"A.J. Wagner's & Co.," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 30 Apr. 1908, p.1, col.1
"New Plate Glass Front," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 7 May 1908, p.7, col.3
"Removal Notice ! [ad], (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 4 Jan. 1912, p.7,col.4. Includes photo of
store
"Big Suit Against City of Bryan," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 9 Dec. 1915, p.3, col.6
"W agner Building Being Improved," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 29 June 1916, p.6, col.4
WALDROP, Allister M., Mr. (1871-1936). Buried Bryan; merchant
"Bicycle Club Organized," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 20 May 1897, p.3, col.3
"W aldrop-W illis," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 20 Apr. 1899, p.2, col.3. A.M. W ALDROP's
wedding.
"Dorothy W aldrop," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 19 Dec. 1901, p.7, col.6.Daughter of A.M.
W ALDROP
"A.M. W aldrop & Co., Men's Clothing and Furnishings," Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 Apr. 1913,
sect.1, p.5, cols.4-6
"Bryan to Have New Boy's Store Opened Up on Next Monday," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 25
Sept. 1919, p.4, col.2
"Mr. W aldrop and Mr. Hall Return from Vacation," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 19 Aug. 1920, p.1,
col.4
"Miss Waldrop Won a Swim Prize at Juna Luska," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 2 Sept. 1920,
p.3, col.5. Daughter of A.M. WALDROP
"Twenty-Five Years in Business...," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 6 Jan. 1921, p.4, col.5
"W hen I was 21," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 Nov. 1926, p.1, col.1; p.4, col.2
"W aldrop & Co. Have Served City 37 Years," Bryan Daily Eagle, 19 Sept. 1933, sect.2, p.3,
col.3
1880 Brazos Co. census, p.341a
WALKER family
"County Democratic Convention," Galveston Daily News, 4 June 1872, p.1, col.2. James
W ALKER, T.V. WALKER
"W alker-Higgs," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 9 Apr. 1903, p.1, col.4. Claude Glenn W ALKER,
son of W .H. W ALKER
"Mr. J.M. Walker Dead," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 5 Oct. 1905, p.1, col.5. J.M. W ALKER
"Miller-Walker," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 10 Oct. 1907, p.1, col.6. Hortense Lillian W ALKER
"Death of Mr. W.J. W alker," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 14 Dec. 1911, p.2, col.5
"W alker-Baker," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 10 Oct. 1912, p.6, col.3. Nash Cole W ALKER
"J.Ross W alker Dead," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 26 Mar. 1914, p.8, col.5. Son of W .J.
W ALKER
"Funeral of W .H. W alker," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 9 Dec. 1915, p.1, col.4
89
"Mr. W .H. Walker Dead," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 9 Dec. 1915, p.8, col.7
"Death of Mrs. W .H. W alker," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 23 Dec. 1915, p.7, col.5. Mrs. Alice
McMILLAN WALKER
WALLACE family
*G.C. W ALLACE was member of grand jury, Galveston Daily News, 8 Sept. 1885, p.2,
col.3
*G.C. WALLACE was a juror, (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 20 Feb. 1890, p.5, col.2
*George C. WALLACE obituary, (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 15 Jan. 1903, p.1, col.2
WARD, E.L. (d.1888). Justice of the peace; buried Bryan
*Appointed justice of the peace, Galveston Daily News, 12 May 1887, p.2
*Died, Galveston Daily News, 3 July 1888, p.2
"Native of Bryan Passes in W est; Had Kinfolk Here," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 2 May 1934,
p.6, col.7. Paschal, son of E.L. W ARD
WARE, A.S. -- Brazos Co. judge
"W are Candidate for Election as County Attorney," Bryan Daily Eagle, 2 Jan. 1936, p.5,
col.1
"County Judgeship Sought by Ware, He States Friday," Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 Apr. 1938,
p.2, col.5
"County Judge Knows Moves in Chess; Is W inner Over Champ," Bryan Daily Eagle, 13
Jan. 1939, p.1, col.7
"W are Candidate for Second Term as County Judge," Bryan Daily Eagle, 3 Apr. 1940, p.5,
col.3
"W are Re-Elected as President by County Officials," Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 Sept. 1942,
p.1, col.6
WASATKA family -- family members buried Bryan
"Mrs. Joe W asatka," Bryan Daily Eagle, 14 Apr. 1896, p.4, col.2
"Hugo Stasny and Louis Wasatka have a plan on foot to build an open air dancing
pavillion...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 17 Mar. 1904, p.2, col.4
"Mrs. Annie K. Stasney Dead," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 23 Dec. 1915, p. 5, col.5. Daughter
of Joe WASATKA
"Ex-Bryanite Given Big W elcome Home; Buys Right Ticket," Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 July
1935, p.1, col.5. V.G. WASATKA
WATHUBER/WATTHUBER family
"Martin W athuber Dead," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 24 June 1915, p.8, col. 6
"Attempt to Fire Bridge Near College," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 13 Dec.1917, p.6, col.4.
Reported by Antone WATHUBER
"Jakubik-W atthuber Nuptials Today," Bryan W eekly Eagle, 20 Aug. 1931, p.5, col.1. Miss
Annie WATTHUBER
"Former Bremond Girl Bride of College Station Man," Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 Nov. 1937, p.3,
90
col.1. Adolph WATTHUBER
WATKINS family
*Obituary of Dr. Benjamin Franklin W ATKINS, Brazos Pilot, 28 Dec. 1905, p.1, col.3;
(weekly) Bryan Eagle, 28 Dec. 1905, p.4, col.5; Texas State Journal of Medicine, 1(8):
284 (Feb. 1906)
"Andrews-W atkins," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 7 May 1908, p.1, col.3
WEAVER family
"At the last meeting of the county alliance...," Galveston Daily News, 15 July 1893, p.5,
col.4. W .W. W EAVER
"The First Bale Received," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 8 Aug. 1907, p.3, col.4. W .H. WEAVER
"Funeral of Mrs. Lewis," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 1 Aug. 1912, p.1, col.3. Mrs. Mary Caroline
W EAVER LEW IS, daughter of C.H. WEAVER
"Thornton-W eaver," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 6 June 1912, p.2, col.3. Miss Aline W EAVER,
daughter of C.H. WEAVER
"Paige-W eaver," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 26 Sept. 1912, p.5, col.5. M i s s A n n i e L a u r a
W EAVER, daughter of W .W. W EAVER
WEBB, John H., Dr. (buried in Bryan). Died at home of his daughter Mrs. Fannie
CALHOUN in San Antonio; son of S.S. W EBB, b. 19 Apr. 1821 at Tally Ho, Granville
Co., N.C.; graduated from Medical Dept. of Univ. of N.Y. in 1844; practiced in Sumpter
Co., Ala.; in 1860 moved to Opalousas, La.; to Galveston in 1864; taught at Galveston
Medical College; moved to Bryan in 1870; moved to San Antonio about 1897; married
9 Jan. 1845 Mary Hadley PARKER; 6 of their 10 children lived to be mar-ried; 3 died
as infants & Lizzie died at age 5; children who survived him were: Mrs. J.W . HOW ELL,
R.S. W EBB, Jas. H. W EBB, Mrs. M.H. JAMES of Bryan; Mrs. Fannie W . CALHOUN
of San Anton-io; his eldest son Dr. W.H. W EBB died earlier at Bryan; John WEBB was
survived by his wife, plus many grandchildren & great -grandchildren; Methodist.
(weekly) Bryan Eagle, 4 May 1899, p.6, col.4; 11 May 1899, p.1, col.4; 11 May 1899,
p.7, col.3.
*Officer of Brazos Co. Medical Society. Galveston Daily News, 8 June 1881, p.1, col.6
WEBB, Mary Hadley PARKER, Mrs.--Born 8 Feb. 1824 in Ala.; widow of John H. W EBB;
died at home of her daughter Mrs. CALHOUN in San Antonio; Methodist; married Dr.
John W EBB 19 Jan. 1845; moved to Bryan in 1870; moved to San Antonio 3 years ago;
mother of 10 children; survived by: Mrs. J.W . HOW ELL, Mrs. Fannie CALHOUN, Robt.
S. WEBB, Jas. H. WEBB & Mrs. M.H. JAMES. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 8 Feb. 1900, p.2,
col.2; 8 Feb. 1900, p.6, col.1. Houston Daily Post, 3 Feb. 1900, p.7, col.3
W EBB, W .H., Dr.--Aged about 40; died at Bryan; left widow & 3 children; druggist; son
of Dr. & Mrs. J.H. W EBB who survived him. Brenham W eekly Banner, 21 Jan. 1890,
p.1, col.3. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 23 Jan. 1890, p.1, col.2
1870 Brazos Co. census, p.19 (book p.37)
1880 Brazos Co. census, p.341b
91
From The Editor’s Desk
W e are all familiar with digitally achieving our documents to CD's but are you aware that
it's possible to archive your documents and have them securely stored online. There are
companies that for a fee will provide storage space on their servers where your documents
and data can be accessible through the W orld W ide W eb. I mention this because we have
such a place locally and they provide free storage space.
The City of College Station Historical Preservation Committee has been charged with the
task of collection and preserving local history through the Project HOLD. “HOLD”: Historic
Online Library Database is an online database of historical documents pertaining to the
history of College Station, Bryan and the surrounding area.
They are scanning all types of documents into the database. These documents are not
limited to the paper type, but include photos, memorabilia, oral histories, etc. Our members
have approved the placement of the Brazos Genealogists into the database. You can
access the Project HOLD documents at this web site: http://HOLD.cstx.gov .
THE 1885 RAI LROAD TRAG EDY IN BRAZOS C O U N TY, T EX AS
by Bill BENNER
In 1865 my great-grandparents, Hinant Taylor W ILSON, born in Burke County, North
Carolina in 1815 and Nancy J. Daniel W ILSON, born in 1819 in Georgia, relocated to
Brazos County from Ouachita County, Arkansas. They were married on April 12, 1838 in
Monroe County Alabama. Nine children - John R., W illiam T., James H., Margaret E., Ann
M., Hinant Z. T., Franklin W ., Rudolphus L. "Dolph" and Mary E. were born to them. The
first five children were born in Alabama, the last four were born in Arkansas. They made
their home north of Bryan on a farm in the area of Benchley.
As is the case in many families, continual work must be done to preserve a record of
our heritage. I am fortunate that in addition to my personal research, a great amount of
this was passed on to me by various sources including my mother, Mattie Wilson
BENNER, granddaughter of Hinant T. WILSON. On occasion, she recounted to me the
tragedy which occurred late in the afternoon on Tuesday, December 8, 1885. This incident
took the lives of her grandfather, Hinant T. W ILSON and two of his adult daughters, Ann
M. Wilson ALLEN and her younger sister, Mary E. W ILSON. The three of them had
traveled to Bryan in a horse drawn wagon to shop and were returning home in the late
afternoon.
92
Since they lived north of Bryan in the area around Benchley, their route home was
the old Hearne Highway. The road crossed the Houston & Texas Central Railway
(predecessor of the Southern Pacific Railroad and present day Union Pacific Railroad)
about a mile north of the H.& T. C. station. The old (Howell Family) cotton seed oil mill was
inside the arc of the curve in the tracks. This was said to be one of the most dangerous
crossings on the railroad, particularly if you were crossing the tracks going north as they
were. The oil mill factory on their right blocked their view of trains approaching on the
tracks from the south. The locomotive bearing down on them sounded the whistle but
because of the restricted sight distance and speed, it was too late to avoid the collision.
The train's consist was short since the engine was drawing only a pay car and reported
traveling at high speed. The accident was reported in the W ednesday, December 9, 1885
issue of the Galveston Daily News. (Brazos County did not have a daily newspaper at that
time. Local news of interest or importance was often reported by the Galveston paper in
those days)
Galveston Daily News, W ednesday, December 9, 1885
HORRIBLE ACCIDENT
A Father and his two daughters crushed to death
by a train near Bryan
(Special to the News)
"Bryan, December 8. - A horrible and heart rending accident
occurred late this afternoon at the oil-mill crossing, about
one mile north of the station. The engine attached to the pay
car ran into the wagon of a Mr. H. T. W ILSON, containing himself
and two daughters, killing all three.......there seems to be
great indignation that a horrible accident of this character
should occur within the suburbs of the city."
W ord of the accident reached the surviving family members at home just as they were
preparing supper. My grandfather Dolph left on horseback to go to the scene of the
accident. W hen he arrived, his sister Ann was mortally injured and his father Hinant and
younger sister Mary had already perished.
Their funerals were held in Bryan two days later on Thursday, December 10, 1885. All
three family members are buried in the family plot in the Boonville Cemetery just outside
of Bryan.
As a matter of record, Hinant's wife, Nancy J., had passed away earlier in 1879. Their
three oldest sons, John, William and James, are unaccounted for and some believe they
may have died in the Civil W ar. The oldest surviving daughter, Margaret E. WILSON (Aunt
Sis), and her brother Hinant Zachary Taylor W ilson were living at home with their father,
Hinant T. W ILSON. Son Franklin W . W ILSON married Virginia ALVERSON in 1879 in
93
Brazos County and lived in the county for a number of years. Then in 1880, their youngest
son, Rudolphus L. "Dolph" W ILSON married Eliza "Liza" Elizabeth MACDONALD who
was raised in Edge, Texas.
Hinant's daughter, Ann M. W ilson ALLEN was survived by two children, Charles E.
KENNEDY, age 14, and Minnie E. ALLEN, age 4.
An action of "negligence causing the death of the children's mother, Ann M. wilson
Allen" was brought against the bondholders & mortgagers of The Houston & Texas Central
Railway Company on behalf of the two minor children - Charles E. KENNEDY and Minnie
E. ALLEN. At that time the H&TC Railway was already in receivership. The only prospect
of getting any favorable settlement on their case was to have the Court intervene in the
existing suit and issue an order for priority consideration ahead of the railroad's existing ten
million dollars of secured indebtedness of long standing. Subsequently, the U.S. Circuit
Court in Galveston issued a decree giving priority in payment ahead of normal order of
payment of creditors. As a result of this decree, a settlement was paid on the suit by the
receivers of the railroad.
My grandfather Rudolphus "Dolph" W ILSON and grandmother Eliza "Liza" Elizabeth
MacDonald W ILSON resided in several locations in Brazos County, mainly in the area
bounded by Bryan on the south to Benchley and Edge on the north. The family eventually
purchased land just north of Teague in Freestone County, Texas.
Dolph and Liza were parents of seven children; John H., Ernest, Eugene R., Leroy,
Mattie I., Margaret E., and Ruby, all born in Brazos County. Two of these children, Ernest
and Ruby, died in their early years. My mother, Mattie Irene Wilson, was the fifth child and
the oldest daughter of Dolph and Liza. She died in 1981 at the age of 89 years. She is
buried in the Centerville Cemetery located in Centerville, Ohio.
Many of Hinant T. W ILSON's descendants still reside in Texas today.
Many thanks to Ed and Ruth HARY of Bryan for their many hours of research
assistance. Also thanks to Bill PAGE of the TAMU Library, Trey HOLT of the Brazos
Genealogical Association, and Shelly Henley KELLY of The Rosenberg Library in
Galveston.
The submitter is a member of The Brazos Genealogical Association, The Montgomery
County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society, The First Families of Montgomery
County, Ohio, and a member of The National Railway Historical Society. He is a retired
Director of Human Resources and resident of Dayton, Ohio.
94
Opening of the LaSalle Hotel
This is from The Bryan Daily Eagle, an article on the opening of the LaSalle Hotel in
Bryan, Texas in April of 1928.
"W hen Bryan was a village of less than 30 houses and Main Street a sandy road where
Texas ponies, ridden with the fury of Texas pioneers raced up and down it to the tune of
the `six shooter.'
"W hen the `whistlers and spitters' of the little terminus of the H. and T. C. railroad sat
lazily in the sunshine before the country stores with nothing much to do and less to inspire
them.
"Even in that early day, there was an evident impetus, although invisible and unnoticed,
leading toward the greater civilization which today marks Bryan as one of the modern and
progressive cities of Texas.
"In the hurry and scurry of completing one of Bryan's greatest achievements of the year,
the building of the splendid new LaSalle Hotel, South Main Avenue and W est 27th street,
there has naturally come to light the interesting history of the plat of ground where the new
building stands.
"The city of Bryan is located on League 10 granted to Stephen F. AUSTIN by the
Republic of Texas, May 24, 18--?; in partition of the estate of Stephen F. Austin, part of
League no. 10 was set apart to W illiam Joel BRYAN, father of the late Guy M. BRYAN of
Houston and who for many years was vice president of the First National Bank of this city,
and grandfather of our fellow-townsman, Travis B. BRYAN, present cashier of the First
National Bank. W illiam Joel BRYAN's wife was a niece of Stephen F. AUSTIN, and came
to Texas with Austin's second colony, landing at the mouth of the Brazos River in 1831.
"April 9, 1860, W illiam Joel BRYAN sold a part of the Stephen F. Austin League No. 10
to A. GROSBECK and W . R. BAKER, trustees for the H. and T. C. Railroad, and upon this
plat, the town of Bryan was located.
"The corner lot, No. 1, Block 256, fronting 40 feet on Main street, running back 100 feet
to Bryan avenue, where the new LaSalle Hotel now stands was on January 20, 1866
deeded by GROSBECK and BAKER with adjacent properties to W ade C. Moseley, a
prominent pioneer citizen of this section, and father of Misses CARRIE and Addie
MOSELEY, Mrs. C. A. HARRIS and Mrs. M. Q. LIPSCOMB of Bryan. Mr. MOSELEY died
possessed of the property. His estate was administered by his nephew, the late Jas. H.
BATTE, father of the late T. R. BATTE, and J. L. BATTE of Bryan and Dr. John BATTE of
Hockley, all well know to many people of Bryan.
"The next transfer of the property was made when the late Judge John N.
HENDERSON, uncle of F. L. HENDERSON, Bryan's present city attorney, purchased it in
95
1871 from the estate of W ade C. MOSELEY. Among those named in the records as
owners of this particular piece of property during the intervening years are; The Odd
Fellows Association, William MCINTOSH, and M. W. SHAW.
"Volney CAVITT, the venerable father of Mrs. Robert ARMSTRONG of Bryan, and one
of the staunch citizens of the early days in Brazos county, bought the property in 1874 from
M. W. McGRAW , "for 2,500 gold dollars".
"The lot remained vacant until this time when P. R. SMITH contracted with Volney
CAVITT to build there on a business house.
"The contract was dated in 1875 -- 53 years ago -- and the same house built at that
time was torn away by busy workmen only a few months ago to give place to our
handsome, seven story new LaSalle Hotel. During the process of erecting the building --
it being one of the first if not the first two-story brick business house in Bryan -- P. R.
SMITH, contractor, became heavily indebted to Volney Cavitt, owner: to Col. Harvey
MITCHELL and his son-in-law, W . H. DEAN for brick burned in their brick-kiln near town;
to J. D. WILSON and to many others. Later, by mutual agreement of all parties concerned,
it was agreed that Volney CAVITT should complete the building, which he did.
"The first floor of the building was rented as a business house, the second story being
given the dignified name, The Academy of Music, and used as a play house, being Bryan's
first theatre and opera house. At one end of the long hall a stage was built and equipped
(with kerosene lamps and foot-lights) and the floor space provided with benches for the
spectators. On either side of the big hall were three open fireplaces, where blazing log
fires gave out needed heating in winter time, each fireplace proving a community center
for friendly chat and social enjoyment as the big circles formed around in the firelight glow.
"Local talent, and there was much of it in superior excellence in those days, gave
"shows" at the Academy of Music, and many "home made" minstrel performances, the like
of which has never yet been equaled here, according to "old timers" who remembered
them, were among the attractions that often crowded the house to capacity.
"The Academy of Music was converted into a ball room, merely by removing the
benches from the floor, and many the time the "grand march" to the strains of an orchestra
began a dance program early in the evening and continued into the "wee sma' hours" of
the morning with the leading society folk of Bryan "tripping the light fantastic".
"The Academy of Music two-story building was purchased in 1896 by A. B. CARR,
grandfather of Allen P. CARR of Bryan and John Carr of Dallas, from the owner, Volney
CAVITT for $3,000, and September 24, 1898 was sold by A. B. CARR to W . E.
SAUNDERS and J. W . JOHNSON of Bryan for $3,300.
"Saunders and Johnson store occupied the lower floor of the building for more than 35
years this popular firm being one of the leading general merchandise establishments in this
96
section of the state.
"R. W . HOW ELL, one of the wizards of finance in Bryan's business programs,
discerned just ahead, progress unprecedented, and felt that invisible power and impetus
of the early days still leading onward for better things in Bryan. W ith the vision plain before
him, and with unshaken confidence in Bryan and its future success and prosperity, R. W.
Howell began to plan for the building of a splendid, spacious, modern hotel here to meet
the ever increasing demands of this growing city. The plat of ground on south Main
avenue and West 27th street was the location chosen by Mr. HOWELL for the erection of
the new hotel.
"And so it was that on October 16, 1926, the records show, R. W. HOW ELL purchased
the property form the owner, W . E. SAUNDERS, and on November 18, 1927 deeded the
same to the LaSalle properties, incorporated.
"Bryan points with pardonable pride to her new LaSalle Hotel, just opening its doors to
the public. Handsome in structure and all furnishings, equipped throughout with the latest
models in every detail for convenience and comfort, the LaSalle is a triumphant gateway
through which the City of Bryan shall pass into a new and greater life and growth, with new
honors and new achievements still before her, and still beckoning her onward, every
onward."
Descendants of Martin F. JAKUBICEK
Generation No. 1
1. Martin F.1 JAKUBICEK was born September 29, 1875 in Lipor, Austria ( now
Czechoslovakia), and died 1934 in Robertson County, Texas. He married Mary Ann
SYPTAK Bef. 1922. She was born 1890 in Texas, and died 1952 in Robertson County,
Texas.
Notes for Martin F. JAKUBICEK:
Martin JAKUBICEK arrived in the United States from Bremen Germany on the vessel
Hanover
July 25 1910. His foreign residence was Lipor Austria (now Czechoslovakia)
(copy of his declaration of intention to become an American citizen on file)
JAKUBICEK, Martin F., 1874 – 1934
JAKUBICEK, Mary A., 1890 – 1952
W heelock Cemetery
305321N / 0962414W
Map To Cemetery
97
Take Ranch Road 391 out of W heelock heading towards Hearne. Cemetery will be on the
right just before the paved road veers to the right.
The birth date for Martin JAKUBICEK shows as 1879 tombstone.
(videos taken by son-in-law George Binderum)
CENSUS: 1930 STATE: Texas COUNTY: Robertson TOW NSHIP: Precinct 3
Roll: T625-2386 Page: 7B Ed: 8 Image: 0833
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Martin, Head, M W 54 M Farmer Czechoslovakia Czechoslovakia
Czechoslovakia
(year of immigration 1910)
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Mary, W ife, F W 39 M TX Czechoslovakia Czechoslovakia
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Ida, Daughter, F W 7 S TX Czechoslovakia TX (Adele)
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Jor, Daughter, F W 6 S TX Czechoslovakia TX (Julia)
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Louis, Son, M W 4 S TX Czechoslovakia TX
138 141 JAKUBICEK, Mary, Daughter, F W 1 S TX Czechoslovakia TX
Children of Martin JAKUBICEK and Mary SYPTAK are:
i.Adele Lottie2 JAKUBICEK, b. August 04, 1922, W heelock, Robertson County,
Texas; d. July 20, 1988, Arkansas; m. Howard HORN, August 1940; b. June 16, 1916,
Anderson, Grimes County, Texas; d. January 01, 1981, Brazos County, Texas.
ii.Julia JAKUBICEK, b. 1924, Texas.
iii.Louis Adolph JAKUBICEK, b. January 20, 1925; d. March 13, 1995, Seymour,
Baylor County, Texas; m. Billie JETER; b. Abt. 1925.
iv.Marian "Jackie" JAKUBICEK, b. March 20, 1929, Robertson County, Texas; m.
George BINDERIM; b. January 03, 1923.
SELECT OCCUPATIONS AS LISTED ON 1870 CENSUS,
BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS
Transcribed by Ruth J. HARY
TEACHERS
BERYMAN, JNO.W M ALSO A MINISTER
BLANDFORD, RICH W M
BONNER, JORDAN B M
BRIDGEMOM, L. W F
BROW N, ALLIEN W M MUSIC
BULLARD, AIME W F
CARDY, ISOM W M
CARR. SOLOMON W M
DAVIS, B. F W M
HAW KINS, DELILAH W F
HEIRICK, MARY W F
98
HICKSON, J W M
HUGANT, OTHO W M
JENNINGS, JOHN W M
LANGLY, SYDNEY`W M
MORRIS, N. H. W M
NEVILLE, MINERVA W F
PAGE, JOHN W M
REGAN, GRANVILLE W M MUSIC
REYNOLDS, MELISSA W F
RICHMOND, L. W F
SLOAN, RICH W M ALSO A MINISTER
SMITH, ANNA W F
STEPHENSON, MARTHA W F
STEPHENSON, SALLIE W F
VAN DUGEN, EALON W F
W OODLEAF, ELLEN W F
W REN, SARAH B F
MINISTERS
ARNOLD, GEORGE S. W M
BERYMAN, JNO. W M
CONNALLY, HILL B M
FISHER, O. W M
FOSTER, C. B. B M
GRAVES, HENRY L. W M
HUSTON, ISAAC W M
LAW, FRANCIS W M
MITCHELL, JONATHAN W M
PHILPOT, H. V. W M
PHILLIPS, L. C. W M
SLOAN, RICH W M
SOUTH, WALTER W M
W ILSON, JAMES W M
99
From the pages of the Bryan Daily Eagle as transcribed by Jane HORN
Bryan Weekly Eagle, January 10, 1901
HUNTI NG SONG BY COL. R. K. CHATHAM
The following poem was written by R. K. CHATHAM years ago, and given to his friend
Alf W ilson. Mr. WILSON has preserved the poem, and takes particular care not to let it get
out of his possession. The vein of humor that was a characteristic of Mr. CHATHAM is in
evidence in these lines, while his strong passion, the love of hunting, is the dominate
thought. That the poetic muse ever swayed his thoughts, many of his friends will now for
the first time learn. Following is the rhyme, kindly furnished the Eagle for publication by Mr.
W ilson:
There's Elbow Pond and Mitchell lake
And of the two, which shall we take?
Dating Tombstones
One way to help find the era your ancestor was buried is to examine the
material from which the tombstone is made. If your ancestor has a stone
made of slate or common fieldstone (except wood used by pioneers),
chances
are the stone dates from 1796-1830.
* If the stone is flat-topped hard marble, dates are about 1830-1849.
* If the "mystery" stone is round or pointed soft marble with cursive
inscriptions, look for a date of 1845-1868.
* Masonic four-sided stones began in 1850 and are still in use today.
* Pylons, columns and all exotic-style monuments are usually dated
1860-1900.
* Zinc monuments date from 1870-1900.
* Granite, now common, came into use about 1900.
If the writing is too faded to read, use a 75 watt black light bulb in any
lamp that casts light directly on the written message. The writing will
miraculously appear.
100
On Devil's Jump and hills around,
The deer are fat and much abound
Now when the autumn leaves do fall,
And snakes into their holes do crawl.
W e'll blow our horns and fly away,
To the wild woods—a week to stay.
W hy should we care for wind or rain,
Or filthy lucre—much to gain?
W hen sporting stands in business way,
Let business go, and sporting stay.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 8, 1907
FIFTH ANNIVERSARY
Today will Mark a Half Century in the History of Tryon Missionary Baptist Church—All Day
Services.
From Thursday's Daily Eagle.
The pastor, Rev. G. A. FOSTER, and congregation of Tryon Missionary Baptist church
have invited the people of surrounding communities and the county generally to join with
them today in the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the organization of the church
with appropriate devotional services. The exercises will include an address of welcome by
Pastor FOSTER at 10 a.m. and preaching by Dr. George B. BUTLER at 11 a.m. The
sermon will follow talks from former pastors and others present. A splendid basket dinner
will be served on the grounds, and a song service, followed by devotional exercises led by
Rev. J. M. BULLOCK of this city will conclude the program in the afternoon.
Among the former pastors who will be present is Rev. Thomas S. ALLEN, now of
Jasper, Texas. Rev. ALLEN arrived in Bryan Tuesday evening and was the guest of Rev.
BULLOCK. He was pastor of Tryon church in the late sixties, and is now 91 years old. He
formerly resided near W heelock, and did a great deal of missionary work throughout this
section in an early day.
The following interesting historical data relative to Tryon church was prepared by the
present pastor, Rev. G. A. FOSTER.
"Tyron church is the oldest Baptist church in Brazos County. It was organized Aug 1,
1857, and has stood firm and earnestly contended for the faith once delivered to the saints.
"There were only six charter members of the church as follows: J. M. ZIMMERMAN,
Mary A. ZIMMERMAN, J. R. STEWARD, Joana STEWART, Peter KEIFFER and Joseph
KEIFFER, all of whom have been gathered to the home of their fathers. The venerable J.
M. ZIMMERMAN was the last to, and it was to his faithful efforts the church was kept alive.
"I give below a list of the names of all the ministers who have ever been pastor of the
101
church, and a special invitation was extended all of them that are living to come and be
with us on this occasion. The first pastor of Tryon church was Rev. Thomas EATON, who
served the church for seven years. The others were Revs. T. A. MENAFEE, Thos. S.
ALLEN, W . T. WRIGHT, G. W . GLEEN, W. B. EAVES, Geo. L. JENNINGS, C. B. HOLLIS,
W . H. HEAD, E. W . NUNNELLY, S. C. MARTIN, A. A. ALLEN, J. M. ISBELL, T. G. PAGE,
J. M. BULLOCK, J. H. JACKSON, B. H. BEALL and A. T. FARRAR."
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 8, 1907
LOWRY-BOND
Mr. Chancey D. LOW RY of this city and Miss Ellen BOND of the Prospect community
sere married Sunday evening at 7 o'clock, at the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. Sara
BOND, by Rev. J. J. TATUM, pastor of the Bryan Free Baptist church. Relatives and a few
friends were present to witness the ceremony and offered congratulations.
The young couple came to Bryan at once and are at home with Mr. and Mrs. G. W.
W HITEHURST. The bride is a young lady of lovable character and possessed of a large
circle of friends. The groom is a worthy young man and nephew of Mr. T. P. LOW RY. He
recently came to Bryan and is employed as engineer by the Bryan W ater, Light and Power
Co.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 8, 1907
THE BRYAN OIL MILL
Now that the colon season has opened the Eagle desires to call the attention of the
people of Brazos county and the trade territory of Bryan generally to the Bryan Oil Mill, an
enterprise which is one of the most helpful in the community to all classes, and especially
so to the farmers. W hen we had no mill there was a general demand for it. Now that we
have a good one and under competent and liberal management let the support of it be as
hearty and general as was the demand. Reasons and arguments could be multiplied until
they would grow tiresome as to why the local mill should have the support of the people,
but the Eagle will not weary the reader by going into details. Suffice it to say that the mill
is a most potent factor in the cotton and seed market, supplies products at a reasonable
cost, expends a large amount for seed, labor and supplies, and will with the coming spring
engage in the manufacture of commercial fertilizer, which will be exchanged for seed to the
advantage of the farmer. Properly supported the mill can be made a factor of the greatest
importance in increasing the productiveness of land and the general development of the
country.
* * * * *
102
Bryan Morning Eagle, August, 8, 1907
PROF. H. NESS RETURNS TO A. AND M.
Prof. H. NESS of Henderson, Texas, has accepted the position of assistant professor
of horticulture in the A. and M. College, made vacant some time since by the resignation
of Prof. F. C. GREEN, who entered the service of the federal agricultural department at
Brownsville. Prof. NESS was formerly connected with the A. and M. in the same capacity
and later with the department of botany. He is well know to the College and Bryan people
and will be cordially welcomed to the campus once more. Prof. NESS is a thorough
student and admirably fitted for his duties. He has been teaching and conducting a fruit
farm at Henderson
* * * * *
Bryan Morning Eagle, August, 8, 1907
PLAYING SOME BASE BALL
The Bryan First Team was from Thornton and the
Second Team from Calvert Yesterday
In the first of the series of three base ball games with Thornton here yesterday
afternoon teen innings were played and Bryan won by a score of 5 to 4. Batteries,
Forrester and Menitee, Bruce, Anderson and W eaver. The feature of the game was a
home run by MAW HINNEY in the tenth inning which gave the game to Bryan. Forrester
for the locals struck out fifteen men. Bruce one and Anderson eight for the visitors. Bryan
was credited with two earned runs and five errors; Thornton with one error. Another good
game will be played this afternoon at 5 o'clock.
The Bryan second team went to Calvert, and with Dawson and Houston at battery, piled
up a score of 11 to 2 against the second team of that place. Of the three games played
by the two teams Bryan has won two and Calvert one.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, February 19, 1914
CAPT. DALY FOR MAYOR
Capt. John DALY, SR. Requests The Eagle to place his name before the Democratic
voters of the city of Bryan as a candidate for Mayor of the city, subject to the action of the
city primary to be held February 21.
Capt. DALY is well and favorably known to every voter in the city. He has lived here
since Bryan was a small country village, his interests are all here, and he is closely
identified with the people, with the city and it's every interest.
103
He is at present serving as one of the Aldermen of the city and since his election a year
ago, has devoted almost his entire time to the affairs of the city, discharging his duties with
a fidelity rarely seen in a public office, and more especially where no salary, or
comparatively none is attached. He was appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the
Council as chairman of the Street Committee and to this work he has devoted nearly all
his time, neglecting his private business and going right out with the street hands in order
that the streets of the city may be improved as much as possible. The effect of his efforts
is apparent on every hand. If elected Mayor he proposes to discharge the duties of the
office with the same watchfulness and faithfulness that has characterized his service as
Alderman and as chairman of the Street Committee. In a day or two he will issue a brief
statement of his ideas of city government and some of the measures he will advocate as
Mayor, which in his opinion will give the city the greatest possible advancement.
The Eagle takes pleasure in placing the name of Capt. DALY before the Democratic
voters of the city.
* * * * *
Bryan W eekly Eagle, July 8, 1915
BRYAN'S OLDEST FIRM RETIRES
Dun & Daly, Saloonist, Going Out of Business After Career of More than Forty Years
Today marked the closing of the career of the oldest business firm of Bryan---Dun &
Daly, saloonists---after a continuous business existence of more than forty years. The
doors of the establishment closed last night at 9:30 to open no more under the present
management forever.
Mr. DALY, the proprietor, decided some time ago to go out of business with the
expiration of his present license and made announcement of the fact at the time. He
began at once to dispose of his saloon property and all of it has been sold.
The fixtures were sold to Harry MARW ILL and were moved to his place of business
today. They were installed in place of the smaller furniture he has been using heretofore.
The stock was sold to Joe OPRSTENY and the building also leased to Mr. OPRSTENY,
who will move into same on July 15th from his present location in rear of First National
Bank. Between now and that date, the building will be thoroughly overhauled. A concrete
floor will be put in, the walls repaired, and new decorations put in throughout. It will be
made an up-to-date place in every respect.
The business of Dunn & Daly was established more than forty years ago by Mr.
Thomas DUNN, one of the old and well remembered citizens of Bryan, now deceased for
a number of years. Soon after its establishment he took Mr. DALY in as partner and the
firm name of Dunn & Daly was never abandoned even after the death of Mr. DUNN. Mr.
DUNN was never married and made his home with Mr. and Mrs. DALY. Mrs. DALY, being
his niece. During his last years he was very infirm and gentler care and tenderer
ministering could not have been bestowed upon him, even if he had been their own father.
He sleeps in the city cemetery.
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During the forty years the business of Dunn & Daly was in existence it built up a
reputation for honorable straight-forward dealing that was enviable. Orderliness was made
one of the chief characteristics of the place and no citizens of Bryan were ever held in
higher esteem than Mr. DUNN during his life and by Mr. DALY at this time.
In retiring from business Mr. DALY says he as nothing but good will for all his fellow
citizens and will rejoice in their continued prosperity and the prosperity of the fair little city
of Bryan. Bryan will continue to be his home and he will devote his remaining years to his
private business affairs and in the pursuit of happiness for himself and for all other to who
he can in any way contribute to their sum of earthly happiness.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 28, 1926
W. C. BOYETT IS NO LONGER ON BOARD DIRECTORS
News of the resignation of W . C. BOYETT as a member of the Board of Directors of the
A and M College has been received in Bryan. Mr. BOYETT has tendered his resignation
to Governor Miriam A. FERGUSON, and it has been accepted. He was appointed in
March a year ago and has served faithfully for 18 months as a member of the governing
body of that institution. No announcement as to the successor of Mr. BOYETT has been
made by the Governor. Mr. BOYETT is a farmer and lived near the College and has been
intimate touch with the College and its affairs for many years.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 28, 1926
KURTEN
Kurten, Aug 18---Miss Rosie Mae BUKOW SKI has returned after spending a week in
Bryan, visiting relatives.
Jim and Virginia KURTEN, Briten HENDERSON, Gussie ODOM, Larene KEITH and Jewel
HEARNE attended Short Course last week.
Bill PLASTERS and sons and Bill ADAMS of Bedias were in our community Friday.
Mrs. J. W . COLBURN is spending this week with her daughter, Mrs. W . F. LUCAS of Shiro
and Mrs. D. R. REEVES of Richards.
The Kurten Community Club met at the Auditorium Saturday night, August 8, the regular
meeting night. The program consisted of interesting talks by Messrs BETHEA and
EBERSTADT of Bryan and other talks were greatly enjoyed by many listeners. There was
a large attendance from Bryan and other communities.
On last Sunday the Kurten baseball team defeated the Lenard team by the score of 13-5
and on the Tuesday following Kurten also played a 4-4 tie with Oak Grove.
Miss Mae CONRAD of Houston spent her vacation with relatives and friends in Bryan and
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Kurten.
Miss Jewell COLBURN of S. H. S. T. C., Huntsville, accompanied by Miss Lola BALDW IN,
spent the week-end with homefolks here.
Miss Mamie GRIFFIN of Bryan has been visiting the Misses BUCHANAN.
Adolph CONRAD came down from Houston Sunday and spent a few pleasant hours with
home folks.
The Catholic Baseball team of Bryan defeated Kurten Sunday by a score of 11-6. This
was the first game that Kurten has lost this year.
Miss Victoria FRIDEL is attending S. H. S. T. C. at Huntsville.
Elmer COLBURN, Misses RUBYS, Ruth and Jewel COLBURN and Lola BALDWIN
motored to Bryan and College Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. J. J. COLBURN have moved to Bryan. W e wish them much happiness with
their Bryan friends.
* * * * *
Bryan Weekly Eagle, August 28, 1926
PIONEER CITIZEN OF ANDERSON IS DEAD OF OLD AGE
Colonel W . W . MEACHAM, aged 82 prominent lawyer of Anderson, Texas, died this
morning at 3:00 o'clock after an illness of three or four months, due to advanced age. He
had been unconscious for the past 7 or 8 days. His daughter, Mrs. Ralph HOWELL of
Bryan, and her son, McDonald HOWELL, were present at the time of his death, having
been called there by his critical illness.
Colonel MEACHAM was born in North Carolina in 1844. He went through the Civil W ar
and immediately after the war when he was still a young man in his 20's came to
Plantersville, Texas near Anderson, where he stayed for a few years and then moved to
Anderson where he has lived in one house for almost 60 years.
In 1869 he was married to Miss Elisabeth MCDONALD whose brother J. G.
MCDONALD, still lives there and is prominent in the legal profession.
The funeral services will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday afternoon at Anderson and Mr. J.
R. HOW ELL will drive over to Anderson on Thursday morning to be present at the services.
* * * * *
Bryan Daily Eagle, August 5, 1924
POULTRY ASSOCIATION HELD MEETING LAST NIGHT – FAIR TALKED
The Brazos County Poultry Association met in regular session Monday at the Chamber
of Commerce. C. E. JENKINS, president, presiding and County Agent C. L. BEASON
served as secretary. Among those present at the meeting were Mr. and Mrs. R. FRANZE
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and children of Kurten, V. J. BORISKIE and wife of Rock Prairie, L. H. HAMPTON and H.
P. W ILSON of Route 4, W ill M. JONES of Route 6 W . O. SANDERS and Morris TATUM
of Bryan.
President JENKINS appointed the following committee to ascertain the possibilities of
holding a county poultry show some time during the fall: W . O. SANDERS, R. FRANZE,
V. J. BORISKIE, W ill JONES, and L. H. HAMPTON.
Many matters were discussed relative to the poultry industry, and all agreed that great
progress has been made and the opportunity is ours to make this a great poultry center,
setting the pace for quality of birds and largeness of the industry. Are you ready to help
such an enterprise? Then work and boost. C. E. JENKINS was appointed to dispose of
old coops to best advantage. No better use could be made of then than for the several
communities expecting to hold fairs to get them.
* * * * *
Bryan Daily Eagle, August 4, 1924
NAVASOLA SCOUTS REWARDED SAVING TWO WOMEN'S LIVES
Navasota, Aug. 4, --- Fred CONNALLY, Morris LEE and Robert STACEY, boy scouts,
were each awarded $10 by the Kiwanis Club at a recent meeting for their bravery in
saving the lives of Mrs. T. H. MACKIE and Mrs. R. J. BRULE, who narrowly escaped
drowning at Swain's Sandbar on the Brazos River recently when they ventured beyond
the safety zone and were caught in a strong current. Young STACEY was nearby when
the women called for help and the two younger boys immediately went to their
assistance. Mrs. MACKIE and Mrs. BRULE were saved without serious injuries.
* * * * *
Bryan Daily Eagle, July 15, 1924
PRINTER BACK ON THE JOB AT EAGLE
AFTER ABSENCE NINE YEARS
Back in 1905, Luther JOHNSON began work at the age of 15, in the office of the Bryan
Eagle and Pilot, the daily paper published in this city at that time. He worked here for
about 10 years, until about 1915, when he left and later went to the Tyler daily paper where
he became connected with the job department as a printer. He severed his connection at
Tyler but a short time ago and is now back on the Bryan Eagle after an absence of nine
years. Mr. JOHNSON is filing in on the linotype during the absences of some of those
working in the mechanical department of The Eagle. Mr. JOHNSON'S mother has lived
in Bryan throughout this time. She lives with Mrs. W . B. BAKER, near the Bryan Hospital,
in the old home in which Mr. JOHNSON was born and reared. Mr. Johnson says that while
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Bryan has changed much since he last worked here, many improvements have been
made, it still seems like home, and encounters many people whom he knew some nine or
ten years age.
BRAZOS COUNTY CHURCHES
by Bill PAGE
Deciding when to begin the study of organized religion in the county is somewhat arbitrary.
One might start with the study of the native Americans who lived in the area before the first
white settlers arrived.
CATHOLICS
Or, one could start with the opening of the Old San Antonio Road in 1691. History records
that Catholic priests frequently traveled this road. On some of their trips they camped
within the present limits of Brazos County, and they may have celebrated Mass on some
of those occasions.
I prefer to start my discussion with 1830, when the first attempt at establishing organized
religion in this area took place. In July 1830, the Mexican government founded a post
named Fort Tenoxtitlan in the William Mathis League. This outpost was located in Brazos
County, just below the San Antonio Road, near the Brazos River. The military company
stationed at Tenoxtitlan soon began bringing members of their families to the outpost.
Although the soldiers were supposed to have a Catholic priest stationed with them, that
position remained vacant. In Oct. 1830, the Mexican government moved the post across
the Brazos River, to modern-day Burleson County. Within a few weeks the Catholic
Church established the parish of Tenoxtitlan and assigned Father AYALA as its first priest.
The first Catholic Church in Brazos County was not founded until many years later. From
the 1830s to the 1860s, Catholic Priests occasionally visited Brazos Co., but there was no
organized church within the county. In 1865, a Catholic mission at Millican was
established, which was served by a priest from Hidalgo Prairie, located in W ashington Co.
This arrangement continued for two years.
In 1867, the first Catholic Church was founded in Millican. The church records have been
lost, and little is known about it. In 1867 it was served by two priests, Father Louis
BUSSANT and Father Francis DERUE. The church moved to Bryan in about 1870. The
Millican community then became a mission served by the Bryan church.
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In 1869, the first record of a Mass being celebrated in Bryan is recorded. This took place
in the home of Marcellius BONNEVILLE, a French immigrant. Soon afterwards, Mr. and
Mrs. BONNEVILLE offered the second floor of their store, located in downtown Bryan, to
be used for services until a church building could be erected.
Although records are somewhat unclear, the best evidence suggests that the first Catholic
church was built in Bryan in 1871. The priest at that time was Father Augustin ANTOINE.
The membership of St. Joseph Church included many of the early settlers of the county
and early immigrant groups, including the French, Irish, Czech, German, Polish, and
Italian.
In November 1876, a fire destroyed the Catholic Church of Bryan. Father Claude CLAIR
was the priest at the church at that time. That fire destroyed all the early records of the
church, making research into the church's history difficult. St. Joseph's congregation met
in various temporary quarters for the next seven years. In 1883 the faithful once again built
a permanent church building.
CIRCUIT RIDERS
Although the Catholic Church failed to flourish locally in the 1830s and 1840s, many
settlers did attend Protestant services.
Circuit riders and other traveling preachers met some of the religious needs of county
residents.
The earliest religious activity recorded in Brazos County history took place during the
Texas Revolution, in the summer of 1836. Area residents had just returned from the
Runaway Scrape, when they had fled the Mexican Army. Local settlers decided to hold
a big camp meeting. They built a large brush arbor near "Richtor Rocks" on the Brazos
River south of Millican. The preaching went on for three weeks.
By the end of the meeting, 35 converts awaited baptism. Following the custom of the
times, the minister baptized these people in the Brazos River. The first three baptisms
went as expected. The fourth convert was a sixteen-year-old girl. The preacher dipped
her into the water, and then she slipped out of his hands. He searched for her, and was
soon joined by many of the onlookers. But their efforts were unsuccessful -- they couldn't
find her. Finally, the minister raised his hands and said, "The Lord giveth and the Lord
taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Now fetch out another one." Not
surprisingly, none of the remaining 31 converts were willing to be baptized that day.
Most preachers had better luck when they visited the young county. One of the most
unusual of the traveling ministers was Judge R.E. BAYLOR. BAYLOR was Judge of the
Third Judicial District, which included Brazos County. BAYLOR, who was both a lawyer
and a preacher, traveled with his law books in one saddle bag and his Bible and other
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religious books in the other. W hen he reached town, he would hold court during the day
and preach at night.
But circuit riders failed to meet the needs of county residents. Between 1841, when Brazos
County was established, and 1849, 49 marriages were performed by justices of the peace,
nine marriages were performed by the County Judge -- and only six marriages were
performed by ministers.
METHODISTS
The first church known to be established in Brazos County was the Millican Methodist
Church, which was given land in 1842 by Dr. Elliot M. MILLICAN and his wife Elizabeth.
Soon thereafter, settlers established another Methodist church. Early in 1843 a pioneer
Methodist minister held a revival at Ferguson Springs. The preacher used a hand-hewn
board fitted into notches cut into two trees as a pulpit. Ferguson Springs is located on
Highway 30 at the Navasota River. This was also the site of the first county court held in
Brazos Co.
In February 1843, James L. VAUGHAN gave the Methodists land on the Navasota River
"in the neighborhood known as Ferguson's Settlement" for a church building and
"supporting parsonage." The property bordered lands granted to Joseph and Robert
FERGUSON. Church trustees were Alexander THOMPSON, Hugh B. KING, James W.
SCOTT, Joseph FERGUSON, and Eli H. MITCHELL.
About that time Boonville was founded as the county seat of Brazos County, and the small
church moved to the new town. Until 1856, the small congregation depended on the
services of circuit riders and traveling ministers, but in 1856 Boonville was assigned an
itinerant preacher for the first time.
This congregation moved to Bryan when that city became the county seat. For the first few
years, the church met in rented buildings. In 1869, the Rev. G.H. HORTON was preaching
in an old theater on Main Street in Bryan. The church was gathered on the second floor
of the theater, while a saloon was in operation on the first floor. In the midst of Horton's
sermon, the clinking of glasses drifted upwards and a drunken song from the saloon below
threatened to drown out his sermon. The preacher halted his sermon and asked a
one-armed Presbyterian sitting in the audience to lead the faithful in the hymn, "Jesus,
Lover of My Soul." In later years, the minister said, "it was song against song, and we beat
‘em."
A few weeks later a theatrical company bought the building, and evicted both the church
and the saloon. That served as the stimulus needed to raise money for a church building.
W ithin 24 hours more than $ 500 was raised to build a church. Every saloon keeper in
town donated at least five dollars to the fund. Thus, in a small way the First Methodist
Church in Bryan owes part of its establishment to the town's saloons.
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RELIGIOUS DEVELOPMENTS IN THE 1850s
Although they were the first organized church in the county, the Methodists did not labor
alone. The 1850s saw a dramatic increase in local religious activities.
In February 1852, the County Commissioners ordered the sheriff to take charge of the
court house -- they also ordered that the court house be opened to all preachers, as long
as they did not interfere with court.
In 1855 the Brazos Union Masonic Lodge erected a meeting hall in Boonville. That
building was often used by traveling preachers.
On the frontier, secular concerns often conflicted with religious activities. In 1857, the
Texas Baptist, a newspaper published in Grimes County, reported that when horse racing
and preaching had threatened to conflict at Boonville, the horse racing was rescheduled.
The paper's editor seemed pleasantly surprised.
During the 1850s local settlers founded a number of churches.
TRYON BAPTIST CHURCH
One of the fist Baptist Churches established in Brazos County was Tryon Baptist Church.
In August 1857, services were held under a brush arbor in Seale's neighborhood on Sandy
Creek. At the end of the services, the church was organized. Thomas EATON was
elected as the church's first pastor, and James M. ZIMMERMAN was chosen as first
deacon and as church clerk. ZIMMERMAN served as deacon for more than forty years.
Other charter members of the church were John R. STEW ART, Joanna Stewart, Mary
ZIMMERMAN, Peter KEIFER and Joseph KEIFER.
The revival continued for several days. Later, a church building was erected on Allcorn's
Creek in J.M. ZIMMERMAN'S neighborhood, about 12 miles north of Kurten.
In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, Tryon Baptist Church played host to the annual
meeting of the Trinity River Association. At this time, Tryon Church had 73 total members.
Thirty-three delegates from thirteen churches in five counties attended this meeting.
Activities of the conference reflected wartime concerns, with action being taken on such
topics as supplying missionaries to soldiers and as providing religious education for slaves.
The Tryon Baptist Church was typical of the many rural churches located in Brazos County.
_______________________________________________________________
THE 1860s -- CHURCHES FOR FORMER SLAVES
The 1860s brought a new need to Brazos County. W hen slavery ended, local Blacks
needed places to worship. Even before the end of the Civil W ar, slaves gathered under
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brush arbors to hear preaching by ministers. The journal of W.S. SOUTH, a Methodist
minister, notes, for example, that on May 22, 1864, he "preached to the colored people"
at Bryan on Isaiah 55:6 "Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon Him while He is
near."
Shortly after the end of the W ar, Blacks founded the Shiloh African Missionary Baptist
Church in Bryan. Their first preacher was the Reverend Frederic L. LIGHTS. LIGHTS was
a native of Kentucky but had lived much of his life in Louisiana, before coming to Texas in
about 1863.
The exact date that Shiloh Church was established has not been found, but Reverend
LIGHTS is listed as performing marriages as early as July 1867. The church may have
originally been located about seven miles north of Bryan, but it soon moved to the city
proper.
In 1870, church members acquired land and built the Shiloh Church building in Bryan.
Shiloh Baptist Church was the first church for the Black Community in the city. In 1872,
Reverend LIGHTS died and was buried on the church property.
Shiloh Baptist Church quickly became a major force in the daily lives of local Blacks. In
1874 the city of Bryan recognized the importance of this church when they made Shiloh
Baptist Church one of the groups responsible for maintaining the "Freedman Burying
Ground" in Bryan.
JEW ISH SETTLERS
As the county grew, religious beliefs became increasing diverse.
The first Jewish residents moved to Brazos County at the end of the Civil War. They
initially settled in Millican. W hen the railroad was extended to Bryan, the Jewish settlers
followed.
Most local Jewish residents were first or second generation Americans. Typically, they
were of eastern European ancestry, with the most common country of origin being
Germany or Poland. Some citizens came from other places, including Hungary, Lithuania,
Rumania, and Russia.
For many years local Jews were merchants. Some sold dry goods, furniture or groceries.
Others were cotton merchants, jewelers, liquor dealers, and restaurant owners. Several
Jewish residents played an important role in Bryan's cultural climate. In the 1890s, Jake
SCHWARZ and his brother-in-law Heyman RYPINSKI operated the Grand Opera House.
John B. MIKE later took over this job. Much later, the SCHULMAN family entered the
motion picture business.
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The most famous of the local merchants were the SANGER Brothers. Although they only
lived in Brazos County for about ten years, several articles, as well as one book, have been
published about their history.
Judaism provides rules of conduct for many aspects of daily life, and records reflect the
wide impact that these settlers' faith had on their lives. Documentation concerning ethnic
and religious activities includes such varied topics as marriages, circumcisions, burials,
Purim balls, and observances of Yom Kippur and Rosh Hoshanah.
No Rabbi lived in Bryan during the 1860s and 1870s, and local Jews had to send to
Galveston, Hempstead, Houston or W aco when they needed the services of a Rabbi or a
Mohel.
Some religious needs were met when the first local Jewish organization was founded in
1870. The next year, the State Legislature issued a charter for the "Hebrew Benevolent
Association of Bryan." This group was intended to assist those in need, but it also appears
to have fulfilled many religious needs. Records are not clear whether or not the association
owned a building; the first known Synagogue in Brazos Council was Temple Freda, erected
in 1913.
Bryan Jews were very active in lodge work. The most popular lodges appear to have been
the Masonic Lodge and the Knights of Pythias. Yom Kippur services were held at the
Knights of Pythias lodge in Bryan in 1904, 1905, 1906 and 1907. Other lodges which had
Jewish members included the Elks, the Odd Fellows, the Sons of Hermann, and the
W oodmen of the W orld. Frequently, Jewish men found that some aspects of lodge
membership, especially in the Masonic Lodge, met some of their spiritual needs.
CONCLUSION
I have briefly described a variety of churches. In many ways each of these groups differs
widely from the others. They have different beliefs and different customs. Yet each
illustrates that one of the most important ways in which pioneers build a community out of
a wilderness is the establishment of churches.
The Bryan Daily Eagle - April 22, 1913 - Business Issue
Chas. VESMIROVSKY
Retail Liquor Dealer
One of the notable retail liquor establishments of this city of Bryan is that of Chas.
VESMIROVSKY. This establishment has enjoyed a prosperous and increasing business
from 1904 until the present time. This house constantly maintains an extensive stock of
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the finest domestic and imported wines and liquors which it supplies to the trade at the
lowest current prices for goods of the purest and most reliable quality.
Mr. VESMIROVSKY came from Hallettsville, Texas to Bryan in 1887, and during the
years of his residence here has been a good citizen, ever doing his whole duty for the best
interests and advancement of this city. He is assisted in the conduct of his business by
Joe KOSK and Frank BRACHEK, native Bryan boys.
Mr. Roy W. NUNN, the active, experienced and successful salesman of the firm, was
reared in Bryan
* * * * *
From The Bryan Daily Eagle - April 22, 1913
Vick Bros.
Feed, Grain And Mill Products
The house of VICK Bros., extensive and successful dealer in feed, grain and mill
products is a type of the great business institutions which share in the many business
opportunities incident to the remarkable growth and prosperity of the city of Bryan.
The firm is composed of John C. VICK and Clarence VICK. This business was
established in 1908, and during the period of its activities here has taken rank as one of
the most reliable extensive and trustworthy establishments of its kind in this part of Texas.
The firm carries a large stock of feed, grain and all grades of mill products guaranteed to
be of the best know to this line of business at prices which are satisfactory and within the
reach of all customers.
John C. VICK, the senior partner of the firm, is a native of Bryan, graduate of the
Agricultural and Mechanical College, and o ne of the leading able and progressive
Aldermen of the city of Bryan. During the period of his residence here he has been known
as one of the most valuable, leading, successful, and capable public spirited men of the
city, whose extensive acquaintance and popularity with all classes of people has made a
pillar of strength in the upbuilding of the city and the advancement of the work of modern
improvements in all lines of business beneficial to the public interests.
Mr. Clarence VICK, junior member of this firm, was reared in this city, here he has a
large circle of friends and acquaintances by whom he is esteemed as a leading factor in
business and social circles in this city. He is a business man of mature judgment and
successful practical experience, whose splendid capacity has been a prime factor in the
development of the firm's business to its present extensive proportions s an exemplary
citizen and an efficient man in the discharge of the important duties entrusted to him.
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This establishment is a leading enterprise of its class in this city, and is high in the list
of the solid, successful enterprises upon which the reputation of Bryan as the chief city of
this section is substantially based.
* * * * *
The Bryan Daily Eagle - April 22, 1913 - Business Issue
Rev. Manly Y. E. Weaver, D.D.
Rev. Manly E. W EAVER, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Bryan, is one of the most
learned and distinguished ministers of the gospel engaged in church work in this part of
Texas. He was born in Hamburg, Perry County, Alabama, and was educated at Six-Mile
Academy, subsequently entering Howard College at Birmingham, Ala., where he graduated
receiving the degree of A.B. Subsequently he attended the Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary at Louisville, Ky., taking the master's degree from that institution. After entering
active ministerial work he served with marked distinction in pastorates at Natchitoches and
Lake Charles, La., Marshall and Bryan, Texas, being the present pastor in the latter city,
where he has served since August, 1909. In 1900 he received the degree of D.D. from
Louisiana College, having the distinction at that time of being the youngest man thus
honored in the state of Louisiana. He has served as vice president of the Baptist General
Convention of Texas with marked ability, and is at present a leading member of its board
of directors and educational board for the State of Texas.
An example of Dr. W EAVER's capable work is noted in the fact that at the time he took
charge of the church at Natchitoches, La., one of the oldest French towns in the United
States, there were only 19 members, which number increased to 114 during the period of
his successful service there. During the six years of his service as pastor at Lake Charles
new interest was aroused in the parish, resulting in needed improvements in all
departments of the work, while the average yearly donations for the support of the church
increased 100 per cent during that period.
During his four years work as pastor of the First Baptist Church of Marshall, Texas, the
church was placed on a good financial basis and reclaimed from indebtedness, as well as
great spiritual improvement and progress in the church.
During over four years of his continuous active labors as pastor in this city Dr.
W EAVER's work, as reflected in the minutes of the association shows an increase of 100
additions annually to the membership, and he has been a chief and predominating factor
in the permanent advancement and improvements of every department of church work
connected with the affairs of the pastorate.
April 5, 1899, Dr. WEAVER was married to Miss Dora SIMS of Natchitoches, a lady of
culture and refinement, prominent in social and church circles, whose advise, sympathy,
and encouragement have been a prominent factor in her husband's successful labors.
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Four children, Grace TRUMAN, M. E. Jr., W . BARKLEY, and Howard Hargrove W EAVER,
were born of this happy union, the pride and comfort of a loving household across whose
sunny threshold no shadow of discord has ever fallen.
In the great work of advancing the spiritual, moral and material welfare of the people
there is no more capable, honored or highly esteemed minister than Rev. Manly E.
W EAVER.
* * * * *
The Bryan Daily Eagle - April 22, 1913 - Business Issue
F. Wetter & SON
Woodworking AND Blacksmithing
F. W ETTER & Son's woodwork and blacksmithing shop is a busy and successful
business enterprise of Bryan, which turns out the best workmanship in the lines of its
business.
The firm is composed of F. W ETTER, and C.G. W ETTER. The senior member of the
firm, Mr. F. WETTER, came to Bryan from Germany in 1867, and has been successfully
engaged in business in Bryan for forty years. During the many years of his residence,
interesting spectator to the growth of the city from a primitive village to its present status
as one of the most progressive cities in this part of Texas. He has always had confidence
in the future of this city and is known as one of the progressive men who have aided in
bringing about its present prosperity.
Mr. C.G. WETTER was born in Bryan on the lot where the firm is now located. His life
has been spent in Bryan, where he is respected and esteemed by all classes as an
estimable and capable man.
* * * * *
The Bryan Daily Eagle - April 22, 1913 - Business Issue
Sam B. Wilson
Dry Goods
A leading and successful modern dry goods establishment in the city of Bryan is that
conducted by Sam B. W ILSON, one of the most progressive and leading business men
of this section.
This house has enjoyed a splendid and increasing trade throughout the ten years it has
been in business here. It carries the finest line of dry goods, shoes, ready-to-wear
garments, and millinery know to the trade in this part of the county.
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Mr. Sam B. W ILSON, the capable and enterprising founder and proprietor of this
business, is a self-made man who from an humble and unpretentious beginning has built
up his establishment to the high rank of one of the largest of its kind in Central Texas. He
is familiarly and truthfully known as "The Husting Dry Goods Man," a complimentary
reference to his capacity and energetic methods in infusing life and activity into his
business affairs. During his long residence in Bryan, Mr. W ILSON has been one of the
city's most progressive and wide-awake citizens and a man who has always contributed
his share of moral and material aid to the work of public improvement and betterment of
the condition of its citizenship.
Mr. W .R. WALKER, a native of Arlington, Texas, has rendered valuable services for
several years as floor man for this establishment, in the discharge of the duties of which
he brings to bear mature experience, judgment, and rare business acumen. Mr. J.A.
CUNNINGHAM, in charge of the clothing department, is a man of experience and superior
business qualifications in that line of work. The extensive dress goods department is in the
charge of Mr. J.L. BROCK, who has no superior in his line of business and is a most
valuable adjunct to he business of the store. Mr. L.S. W HITTAKER, a capable and
experienced man, formerly with FEHLMAN & Co. of Galveston, Texas, is the expert shoe
man in charge of the extensive shoe department of the store. The attractive notions
department have ben for several years under the charge of Miss Julia PARIZEK, a lady of
first-class business ability, who services have been invaluable in the conduct of the
extensive custom centering in that branch of the business. Miss Minnie BRAATZ, efficient,
courteous and obliging in her treatment of the trade, is in charge of the ready-to-wear
department of the store. The extensive modern millinery department of this business is
efficiently conducted by Miss H.D. PARKER of Fort Scott, Kan., who has successfully
managed the same for a period of four years, and who has no superior in this class of
work. She is able assisted by Miss Lena W ETTER, a capable and artistic trimmer, whose
work is noted for its beauty, elegance, and tasteful designs. Mr. George W . FOW LER,
formerly of Dallas, is in charge of the accounting department and is a capable and
experienced man in that line of work.
Mr. W ILSON is now making extensive improvements to meet the rapidly growing
demands of this trade, which when completed, will make his establishment among the
most extensive and important of its kind in Texas.
117
INDEX
ADAMS ........................104
ALLEN ..............91, 93, 100, 101
ALVERSON .....................92
ANTOINE ......................108
ARMSTRONG....................95
ARNOLD,.......................98
AUSTIN.........................94
AYALA ........................107
BAKER .....................94, 106
BALDWIN ......................105
BARKLEY ......................115
BATTE .........................94
BAYLOR .......................108
BEALL.........................101
BEASON .......................105
BENNER ......................1, 91
BERYMAN ...................97, 98
BETHEA .......................104
BINDERIM ......................97
BLANDFORD ....................97
BOND .........................101
BONNER .......................97
BONNEVILLE ...................108
BORISKIE ......................106
BOYETT .......................104
BRAATZ .......................116
BRACHEK......................113
BRIDGEMOM ....................97
BROCK ........................116
BRULE ........................106
BRYAN .........................94
BUCHANAN ....................105
BUKOWSKI ....................104
BULLARD .......................97
BULLOCK ..................100, 101
BUSSANT ......................107
BUTLER .......................100
CALHOUN ......................90
CARDY .........................97
CARR .......................95, 97
CARRIE ........................94
CAVITT .........................95
CHATHAM ......................99
CLAIR ........................108
COLBURN .................104, 105
CONNALLY..................98, 106
CONRAD ..................104, 105
CUNNINGHAM ..................116
DALY .........................104
DALY, SR ......................102
DAVIS ..........................97
DEAN ..........................95
DERUE ........................107
DUNN .........................103
EATON ....................101, 110
EAVES ........................101
EBERSTADT ...................104
FARRAR .......................101
FEHLMAN ......................116
FERGUSON ................104, 109
FISHER.........................98
FOSTER ....................98, 100
FOWLER ......................116
FRANZE .......................105
FRIDEL ........................105
GLEEN ........................101
GRAVES ........................98
GREEN ........................102
GRIFFIN .......................105
GROSBECK .....................94
HAMPTON .....................106
HARRIS ........................94
HARY .......................93, 97
HAWKINS .......................97
HEAD .........................101
HEARNE .......................104
HEIRICK ........................97
HENDERSON ................94, 104
HICKSON .......................98
HOLLIS ........................101
HOLT ..........................93
HORN ..........................97
HORTON ......................109
HOWELL ................90, 96, 105
HUGANT........................98
HUSTON........................98
ISBELL ........................101
JACKSON ......................101
JAKUBICEK ...................1, 96
JAMES .........................90
JENKINS...................105, 106
JENNINGS ..................98, 101
JETER .........................97
JOHNSON ..................95, 106
JONES ........................106
KEIFER ........................110
KEIFFER.......................100
KEITH .........................104
KELLY..........................93
KENNEDY,......................93
KETTERSON ....................86
KING ..........................109
KOSK .........................113
KURTEN .......................104
LANGLY ........................98
LAW ...........................98
LEE ...........................106
LIGHTS........................111
LIPSCOMB ......................94
LOWRY .......................101
LUCAS ........................104
MACDONALD ....................93
MACKIE .......................106
MARTIN .......................101
MARWILL ......................103
MAWHINNEY ...................102
MCDONALD ....................105
McGRAW .......................95
MCINTOSH......................95
McMILLAN W ALKER ..............89
MEACHAM .....................105
MILLICAN ......................109
MITCHELL ...............95, 98, 109
MORRIS ........................98
MOSELEY....................94, 95
NESS .........................102
NEVILLE ........................98
NUNN .........................113
ODOM.........................104
OPRSTENY ....................103
PAGE ............83, 93, 98, 101, 107
PARIZEK ......................116
PARKER ....................90, 116
PHILLIPS .......................98
PHILPOT .......................98
PLASTERS .....................104
REEVES .......................104
REGAN .........................98
REYNOLDS .....................98
RICHMOND .....................98
RUBYS ........................105
RYPINSKI ......................111
SANDERS......................106
SANGER.......................112
SAUNDERS ..................95, 96
SCARDINO ......................85
SCHULMAN ....................111
SCHWARZ .....................111
SCOTT ........................109
SHAW ..........................95
SIMS ..........................114
SLOAN .........................98
SMITH.......................95, 98
SOUTH .....................98, 111
STACEY .......................106
STEPHENSON ...................98
STEWARD .....................100
STEWART .................100, 110
SYPTAK ........................96
TATUM ....................101, 106
THOMPSON ....................109
TRUMAN ......................115
VALENTA .......................83
VAN DUGEN.....................98
VAN HOOK ......................83
VANDIVER ......................83
VARISCO .....................83-85
VAUGHAN .....................109
VAVARA ........................85
VAVRA .........................85
VERSMIROVSKY .................86
VESMIROVSKY ..............85, 112
VICK .......................86, 113
VITOPIL .....................86, 87
VYMOLA ........................87
VYMOLA BLAZEK ................87
VYTOPIL........................86
WADE ..........................87
WAGNER .......................88
WALDROP ......................88
WALKER .......................88
WALLACE ......................89
WARD..........................89
WARE ..........................89
WASATKA ......................89
WATHUBER .....................89
WATTHUBER ....................90
WEAVER ...................90, 114
WEAVER LEWIS .................90
WEBB ..........................90
WETTER ..................115, 116
WHITEHURST ..................101
WHITTAKER....................116
W ILSON ...91, 92, 95, 99, 106, 115, 116
WOODLEAF .....................98
WREN..........................98
WRIGHT .......................101
ZIMMERMAN ...............100, 110
PUBLICATIONS BY BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION AND MEMBERS
Persons interested in the publications of the BGA may order them at the address listed
below. For information on publications by members, contact the author at the listed
address. Any charge for the publication of members will be between the person
interested in the publication and the author. W hen inquiring please enclose a SASE.
********
Title:"R ecorded Births in Brazos County, Texas 1850-1910."
Content:Recorded births in Brazos County plus som e births in Madison and Grim es Counties.
A lphabetical by surnam e plus m aiden nam e index. 328 pages . Auth or: N adine B illings ley,
706 Pershing, College Station, TX 77840.
Title:"Descendants of Joshua JONES of Alabama and Solomon KING of North Carolina, 1771-
1994"
C onte nt:S tory of Jos hua JO N ES of Alabam a and Solom o n K IN G of N o rth C a ro lin a and their
descendants , 1 771-1994. O ver 8000 nam es, indexed. A u thor: N adine Billingsley.
Title:“Brand and Mark Registrations for Brazos County Texas 1849-1900"
Content:The registration of a m ark or brand m ay be useful to Genealogists as a finding aid when
developing a tim e line, and may confirm the existence of a person or fam ily in Brazos
C ounty. R egistrations were com piled from Brand Book "A " and "B ", and m ay contain
such inform ation as surname, first nam e or initials, date of registration, book, page, and
any com m ents m ade at the tim e. It has 121 pages, soft bound, over 2900 registrations
and is indexed. T he cost is $17.9 7. Auth or: N adine B illings ley.
Title:Index to Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1876-1909, St. Joseph Catholic Church,
Bryan, Brazos County, Texas.
Content:Indexed, intended to assist the researcher in locating records at this church. 96 pages.
Com piler: Joanne Dom inik Glowski, 4131 Bethel, Houston, TX 77092.
Title:Marriage and Death Records, 1877-1909, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bryan, Brazos
County, Texas.
Content:A com plete transcript of these records. Deaths start in 1894, with a few recorded before
th at d a te. In c lu d e s a list o f places of birth . 8 3 pages. C om p ile r: J o a n n e D om in ik G low s k i.
Title:"Italians of Steele's Store, Texas."
Content:Historical account of the Italian settlem ent at Steele's Store, Brazos County, Texas.
Author: Rosem ary DePasquale Boykin, 8407 Shadow Oaks, College Station, Texas
77845-4603.
Title:"Birds of Passage"
Content:An annotated listing of Italian im m igrants who departed Palerm o, Sicily and arrived at Port
of New Orleans, LA, 1859-1901. CD-ROM (MAC/PC compatible). Listing of 23,975
nam es. C & R Publications. College Station, TX. 2001. $35 plus $2 for shipping/handling.
Texas residents add $2.90 for sales tax. Checks or money orders made payable to C&R
Publications, 8407 Shadow Oaks, College Station, TX 77845. Brochure and order form
at: http://m em bers.tripod.com /~LW ink2/Birds">BIRDS OF PASSAG E. Author: Rosem ary
D eP as quale B oyk in
Title:"Italians of Steele's Store, Texas."
Content:Brazos Valley Italians. A Series of Interviews." 279 pgs. C& R Publications. College
Station, TX. 1996. $25 plus tax.
The Brazos County cemetery book has recently been published and is now
available. Included are 278 pages of names listed alphabetically from 85
cemeteries. Information listed includes (where available) name, date of birth, date of
death, inscription and cemetery.
Send your order to:
Ericson Books
1614 Redbud St.
Nacogdoches, TX 75961-2936
The price is $40. Add 8.25% Texas sales tax and $3.50 shipping/handling.
BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 5493
Bryan, TX 77805-5493
Vol. XXVII No. 3, Summer 2006