1901_1 - Drilling for Gas Begins at Darrtown

SOURCE: Hamilton Daily Republican News - August 2, 1901 - page 5

BEGIN BORING TUESDAY

Gas Promoters Push Their Work at Darrtown

Derrick in Place on the Nichols Farm

George H. Scott in the City Today

The derrick on the farm of J. W. Nichol, near Darrtown, is now finished and in place, the engines in position and everything is in readiness for the beginning of operations, except for putting in the drills, which will be done at once. Drilling will begin Tuesday afternoon. George H. Scott of the firm Scott and Ball, of Muncie, Indiana, was in the city today and all arrangements for the active work of development were completed and the work will be pushed as rapidly as possible.

The company is composed of George Rentschler, president; Peter Schwab, vice-president; L. P. Clawson, secretary and treasurer; and three officers with J. W. Nichol and Gottlieb Wagonfield constitute the board of directors. The company has opened an office in Darrtown with Frank W. Clements in charge and everything is now in fine business shape.

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1914_1 - Darrtown News - May 14

KUWL Club to meet; several visitations reported; and H. L. Kramer buys new car

Darrtown, O., May 14 - Butler County Democrat - page 3:

"The K. U. W. L. club will meet at the home of Mrs. John Shaw on Thursday. Mrs. Ralph Baker will be the assisting hostess.

L. A. Miller spent several days of the past week with relatives at Mason, where he attended the funeral of David Ayers.

Mrs. Charles Wagonfield entertained her sister, Mrs. Ed Cain and daughter of Liberty, during the past week.

Communion services were observed at the Lutheran church, Sunday morning.

H. L. Kramer has purchased a new five passenger Ford automobile.

Mrs. Harry Bradbury entertained the following at supper, Thursday evening: Misses Essie Shears, Belle Wilkie, Josephine Welch, and Ethel Snyder.

Mrs. Homer Ballinger of Springfield, Ohio, visited her parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. D. Herron last week.

Mrs. L. A. Miller and MIss Belle Wilkie visited the former's sisters, the Misses Phillips of Hamilton, during last week.

MIss Edith Davis of Newport, Ky., was an overnight guest of her sister, Mrs. Sam Abry.

Misses Nelle and Maria Davis spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Almond Davis of Flenner's Corner."

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1921_1 - Darrtown Baseball News - Hamilton Evening Journal -June 9,1921

L. B. Harrisons To Play Darrtown and Middletown-Darrtown Rivalry Renewed

L. B. Harrisons To Play Darrtown Next Sunday

Their winning streak shattered, and bent upon hanging up a good mark in the K. I. O. League, before opening of the elimination series in July, Darrtown faces a stiff proposition in the L.B. Harrison team of Cincinnati. he Harrisons, for several seasons,have been known in every athletic way at Cincinnati for classy teams and although their baseball team is not rated the equal of their teams in other lines, the ball club to show at Darrtown on Sunday has won its share of victories this season. Darrtown's setback, last Sunday, by Elmwood came as a blow to followers of the club and to the team management.

"It sure looked like we had the game cinched," Playing Manager Dutch Shafer said, "but, the boys are not discouraged and will be there Sunday fighting to the limit."

Dale Johnson, being taken from the mound Sunday, was the second time in the career of the Hamilton hurler that he was yanked. Johnson was hit hard in the seventh inning after pitching beautiful ball for five innings. Johnson will be on the hill against the Harrisons and will have the backing of the entire fandom to cap.

Although K.I.O. League hitting and fielding records have not been officially released, Cincinnati managers playing at Darrtown claim that the Darrtown team has one of the classiest fielding teams in the league. In the last four games, Darrtown has made only five errors compared to nineteen wobbles committed by the opposition. Last Sunday, the villagers played flawless ball on the green and in the previous games made not more than two errors.

Frank Vidourek (Vitt), premier first sacker of Darrtown, who knocked the first home run of the season last Sunday, will receive a gallon of "regular syrup" from an enthusiastic fan, who offered the juice to the first home-run clouter. Vitt's drive was the longest on this diamond this season, being lost in the wheat fields in the far left field.

Middletown-Darrtown Rivalry Is Renewed

The ancient rivalry between Middletown and Darrtown, in the baseball way, which has been revived with renewed zest with the entrance of both localities in the K. I. O. League, will be brought to a climax on July 3 and 4, when these clubs meet in a two game series. Announcement of the tilts was made today by Manager J.F. Kyger of Darrtown, after weeks of dickering with the pilot of the Gardner-Harvey Team of Middletown.

The first game will be played at Darrtown on Sunday, July 3 and the second will be played at MIddletown on the Fourth.

In addition to being of supreme interest to fans in the rural vicinities, the clash will be of importance here, as Hamilton players of prominence have important positions on both teams. Darrtown is virtually made up of Hamilton players and Middletown has two of the best from the city in her lineup, in Wink Betscher, infielder, and Del Lenhoff, catcher.

Plans, now being perfected, Kyger says, will call for the best series in baseball, which has been staged here in years. Darrtown has a higher percentage in the K. I. O. League than Middletown and has defeated teams which defeated Middletown; but, odds are not to be placed on the Kygerites to win.

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Darrtown Baseball News

From August 29, 1921 edition of the Hamilton Evening Journal - page seven

Trenton Drops Second Contest To Kygerites

Darrtown evened up scores with Trenton at their home grounds, Sunday, copping a one-sided contest 9 to 3, by terrific slugging, speedy work on the paths, and a clean defensive game.

Doc Alston, who was beaten at Trenton the first game of the series, came back strong and was complete master of the Heiders, while on the slab. He retired in the eighth and Pelle finished. From the start, John Quinlisk was hit hard and he retired in the third, after he was touched up for 6 hits and 3 runs. Mike Quinlisk, his brother, finished, and was also slugged.

Three double plays got Alston out of trouble, on many different occasions. The work of the Darrtown infield was the feature of the contest.

Darrtown began her promenade across the plate in the first inning and concluded in the eighth.

Sauter, playing his first game for the team, led off for Darrtown, with a single and stole second. He scored on Ohne's sacrifice fly. In the third, hits by Ohne, Theobald, Gray, and Foy and stolen bases, earned three more runs. A base on balls to Sauter, his stolen base, and Schumeer's single scored one in the fourth. One was tallied in the fifth on Gray's single and Bauer's error in left on the hit. Two more came in the sixth, when Sauter, Ohne, and Theobald hit safely. Bauer made an error in left and Quinlisk heaved one wildly. The final run in the eighth was the result of an error by Beatty, on Ohne's grounder, Ohne's stolen base, and Gray's hit.

After Clotter had singled in the second, Gray, Ohne, and Schmeer pulled a double play, ending a possible rally. Three men were on bases in the fifth, when Ohne, Gray, and Schmeer pulled their second double play, Bauer scoring on the play. Trenton scored two in this inning, the second resulting from Alston's error. Another Trenton rally was busted in the seventh, after one run had scored when Sauter speared Goebel's liner and doubled Quinlisk at second.

Gray was the star for Darrtown, with three rattling singles. He also played a superb game at second base.

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1929_1 - Mrs. Benjamin Bufler Celebrated Birthday

Hamilton Evening Journal March 28, 1929 / Pg. 3 / "Social Section"

On last Monday afternoon, Mrs. BenjamIn Bufler was tendered a very pleasant surprise at her home on North Tenth Street, the occasion begin her forty-fifth birthday anniversary. A very pleasant social time was enjoyed, and a delicious dinner was served.

Those who participated in the affair were: Mrs. and Mrs. Benjamin Bufler and children, Lester and Donald; Miss Frances Bufler; Earl Keiser; Mrs. Mollie Buell (mother of the honored guest); MIss Carol Buell; Robert Laubach; Ed Buell; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Buell; Mary, Pearl, Helen, Laura, Margaret, Billy, and Clarence Brower, Jr. of West Elkton; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Buell, and son Harry, Jr., of Somerville; Mr. and Mrs. Myrle Bufler and son, Billy, of New Burlington; Mr. and Mrs. Paul McShane of Camden; Frank Bufler, of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Grau and daughters, Jean, Dorothy, Eleanor, Gertrude, and Ruth; Arthur Metcalf, Mr. and Mrs. Will Weiss and daughter, Bernice, of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Bufler and daughter, June Ann, of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bufler and children, Mary Ellen and Ray, of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Guy Dynes and children, Keith and Kathryn, of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Wagonfield and children, Eugene, Harriet, Charles, and Clyde, Jr., of Darrtown; Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Alston and children, Virgil and Betty Mae, of Darrtown; Glen Ward, of Darrtown; and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eby.

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1929_2 - Darrtown News; February 6

From the Hamilton Daily News, February 6, 1929 - page 6

FARM INSTITUTE AT DARRTOWN

All Sessions Well Attended; Geo. O. Manrod is Named President

DARRTOWN, O. - The Farmers' Institute held here at the Lutheran church last Wednesday and Thursday was well attended at all sessions. The three schools of the township had the opening program, with Clarence Wright, a senior of Milford Township High in charge. Collinsville Grange put on an entertaining one-act play in the afternoon. The state speaker, Mrs. Zella Lawrence of Wooster and Tell Tompson of Findlay had interesting discussions morning, afternoon, and evening. The high school orchestra furnished music in the evening.

Thursday, the state speakers and R. Q. Smith, County agent, of Hamilton lectured on subjects interesting to farmers and people of the village, as well. The three schools had a large variety of posters entered. The successful boys and girls were: Cecelia Schockey, Collinsville School, First; Fred Unzicker, Collinsville School, Second; Mary Barnett, Darrtown School, Third. In the lower grades, Jean Bradbury, Collinsville School, First; Mary Elizabeth Harris, Darrtown School, Second; and Verna Lang, Collinsville School, Third.

The hog-calling contest, Wednesday, and the chicken-calling Thursday caused much merriment. C.O. Mendenhall was proclaimed the best hog-caller, with William Beiser second best, while Mrs. Clem Pfaff had the honor of being the best chicken-caller.

The following officers were elected: George O. Manrod, president; Charles P. Krebs, vice-president; Luther Beiser, secretary-treasurer, and Miss Nelle Davis, lady correspondent.

Splendid dinners were served both days by the ladies of the churches.

The concluding program was given Thursday night and was ably presented by H.V. Nordmann, cartoonist of Hamilton; Miss Lillian Bickle ___ ; Miss Josephine Bradbury, reader, Darrtown, and ___ Ro__baugh, soloist and pianist, Oxford.

The Executive Board of Milford Township Farm Bureau met Tuesday night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Witherby. William Taylor was in charge of the meeting. A special time followed, during which the hostess served a delicious lunch.

A class in the "Prevention of Diseases" will meet at the school house, Friday afternoon, February 8. Mrs. Charles Krebs, assisted by Miss Nelle Davis will give this lecture. The Farm Bureau is sponsoring this class and wishes to reach all homes in Milford Township.

The Darrtown Stock Protective Association had an oyster dinner at the school house, Saturday. This was followed by a meeting in the afternoon, during which matters of importance were discussed.

Mr. and Mrs. George Bowman gave a farewell party at their home on the Collinsville road, Saturday night. Mr. and Mrs. Bowman are leaving the community in the near future for a farm near Stockton. The evening was spent in playing cards and at a late hour, the hostess served a tempting lunch to the following people: Messrs. and Madames Peter Baecker; George Weckerle and daughter; Frank Jarrett; Ed Schlabach and family; John Schlabach and family; Fred Schmidt; Frank Bufler; Howard Laughlin, Gus Bufler, Joe Dunwoody and family; William Rigdon and family; Mrs. Ella Bufler; Raymond Schmidt and George Bowman, Jr.

The committee met and are making extensive plans for the Farm Bureau fish fry to be held at the school house, Tuesday, February 19.

Mrs. Nam Bradbury Simonson, of Kansas, was buried in the Darrtown cemetery, Monday afternoon. Mrs. Simonson was a cousin of Mrs. Harry Kramer and Mrs. Laura Flenner, of Oxford, formerly of this place.

Mr. and Mrs. Ross Wolfe had as their guests Sunday for dinner, Mr. and Mrs. William Lacy of Hamilton and in the afternoon, Mrs. C.W. Cummins, Miss Elma Cummins, and Albert Carter of Gano.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Judd spent Sunday in Springfield, Ohio, where they went to visit Mrs. Carl ___haus, who is seriously ill.

Fred Kramer, George Manrod, and Charles Krebs attended the Kiwanis banquet at Oxford, Tuesday.

John Bradbury, of O.S.U., spent Saturday and Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bradbury.

Mrs. Maria Nichol returned home Saturday, after an extended visit with relatives in Hamilton.

Mr. and Mrs. Luther Beiser and son, Bobby, Mrs. Harry Teckman, Miss Nelle Davis, Mrs. Ernest Miller and son, William, attended the play, "Oak Farm," at Collinsville, Saturday night.

Miss Irene Hiney of Alexandria, La., spent the weekend at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Cory. Miss Hiney had been to New York on a buying trip for her firm and stopped over for a few days visit with relatives in this section.

Mrs. Nellie Hansel attended D.A.R. in Hamilton, Wednesday.

Mrs. Charles Krebs left Saturday morning for Camargo, Ill., to attend the funeral of her brother-in-law, Dr. N. McKinney.

Friends were sorry to learn of the illness of George Zellers of Middletown. Mr. Zellers was removed to Mercy Hospital, Hamilton, where he was operated on for appendicitis, Wednesday.

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Teckman and Mr. and Mrs. Ernie Miller attended the Masonic entertainment at Hamilton, Thursday night.

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1929_3 - Darrtown News; September 18

(Milford Twp. Farm Bureau, Talawanda Garden Club, M.E. Church Improvements, Notes of Interest )

Hamilton Evening Journal - Wednesday, Sept. 18, 1929

DARRTOWN NEWS

Milford Township Farm Bureau News

The quarterly meeting of the Milford Township Farm Bureau was held at the schoolhouse, Tuesday night. William Taylor presided and an interesting program was rendered. The main parts of the program were groups of songs by Miss Viola [last name obscured; perhaps "Betz"], style show by the girls of the 4-H club, talk on club camp, by Miss Josephine Bradbury, poultry demonstration by Dorothy Harris and Paul Krebs of the 4-H poultry club, short talks were given by Mr. Neff of Ohio State University and County Agent R. D. Smith. Two reels of motion pictures [1] were shown at the close of the meeting, after which all were invited to the dining hall and a water melon feed was greatly enjoyed. The meeting was unusually well attended.

Talawanda Garden Club Meets

The September meeting of the Talawanda Garden Club was held Thursday afternoon at the home of Mrs. Harry Bradbury on the East Road. [2] The spacious rooms and halls were ideally arranged for entertainment and the short program was highly appreciated. Mrs. William Buhi presided and the members responded to roll call with conundrums. Mrs. William Ramsey brought an elegant bouquet of dahlias from her flower garden and it was sent to Mrs. Maria Nichol, a friend of the club, who is ill at Fort Hamilton hospital. At the close of the business session, the hostess introduced two interesting contests. The first was a "flower guessing," from pictures and after solving it, another was brought forward and the hostess remarked that something grew with her flowers and the guests had a "Wood Study" from pictures.

Both created much interest and the prizes, dainty, hand painted plates were won by Mrs. Lee Mendenhall in the first contest and Miss Maria Davis in the second. A tempting lunch was served at the close of the afternoon. many guests met with the regular club members at the first meeting of the fall season. Mrs. Howard Bryant invited the club to her home for the October meeting.

Methodist Church Improvements

The M. E. church has been closed for a few weeks, while workmen have been engaged in sanding and refinishing the floors. Services were held Sunday morning in the Luther church. [3a] The members and friends of the church were glad to welcome Rev. H. A. Smith, who was retained here for the second year, by the Methodist conference, which recently met in Columbus. Rev. Smith gave a brief, but interesting, report of the conference and the Misses Helen and Margery Elliot of West Mansfield, Ohio gave piano and violin selections both in church and Sunday school. The members of the M. E. church extend a vote of thanks to the members of the Saint Matthew's English Lutheran church for the use of their church. The M. E. church will be ready for services in two weeks.

Work Picnic

A "Work Picnic" will be held at the M. E. church Friday, September 20. The ladies are requested to bring well-filled lunch baskets and dinner will be served a the home of Mrs. Clara Witherby. The men are cordially invited to attend.

G. W. Harris Dead

George Washington Harris was born on a farm near Darrtown, Jan. 22, 1854 and died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Anna V. McKinney, Carmargo, Illinois, Friday morning, September 13, 1929, having reached the age of 75 years, 6 months, and 21 days. He was the last member of a family of five sons, the others having preceded him in death. He received his early education at Old Center school [4] near Darrtown and later attended Earlham College, Richmond, Ind., and Lehmann Normal College. He was united in marriage February 22, 1881, with Miss Ida Frank and in this union, four children were born. He was converted in the M. E. church, Darrtown and later transferred his membership to the Presbyterian church, Oxford. He followed the occupation of farming with the exception of a few years when he resided in Oxford and the past year had been at the home of his daughter in Camargo. He was very fond of music and only one week ago Sunday took part in the choir at the M. E. church, Carmargo. Although in failing health for several months, Mr. Harris had been active and death came after a four day severe illness. He is survived by the widow, Ida, three daughters, Mrs. Charles Krebs, Darrtown; Mrs. Anna V. McKinney, Carmargo, Ill.; Mrs. William Bovard, Long View, Washington; and son, Rev. George W. Harris, Poynette, Wisconsin, and eleven grandchildren. The members of the immediate family with the exception of Mr. and Mrs. William Bovard and family were present for the impressive funeral service, which were held at the Memorial Presbyterian church, Oxford, Sunday afternoon at two o'clock. Rev. R. G. Ricmann officiated and delivered a comforting message. The pall bearers were H. L. Harris, Hamilton; James Clark, Oxford; Robert Shaw, Collinsville; James Harris Sr., Arthur Harris, and James Harris, Jr., Darrtown. The burial took place on the family burying plot in Darrtown cemetery. Many from here attended the service at the church and cemetery.

Moved

Mrs. Clara Witherby moved Thursday from the Liebrich property in the north end of the village to the front apartment in the Mrs. Mary McVicker property. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have moved into the house vacated by Mrs. Witherby.

Mrs. Guiler Injured

Mrs. Jacob Guiler met with painful injuries Thursday, while assisting her husband in fence building. The stretcher chain broke and resulted in her receiving hand wounds. Dr. Thomas A. Munns [?] of Oxford was called and rendered professional assistance. She is slowly improving at this time.

Callers at Hospital

Many from here have called at the Fort Hamilton hospital to visit Mrs. Maria Nichol, who is a patient there. Her many friends in the community and throughout the county are glad to learn that she is making rapid progress in ways of improvement.

Notes of Interest:

Mrs. Porter Elliot, daughters, Margery and Helen, and son John arrived here from West Mansfield and spent the weekend at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Kramer. Miss Margery remained and will attend Miami University, Oxford. Miss Alice Allen and Mrs. Bertha Compton of Hamilton were Sunday afternoon callers at the Kramer home.

Rev. F. S. Delo of Covington, Kentucky, former pastor of St. Matthews English Lutheran church, visited during the week at the Clem Pfaff and James Harris home and called on friends.

Mr. and Mrs. B. M. Wyckoff, children, Garland, Elden, and Vera, Rev. and Mrs. J. B. Chriney [?] attended a Lutheran Rally at Franklin, Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Krebs and little daughter, Grace [?] Charlotte left Friday morning, by motor for Carmargo, Illinois, having been called there on account of the illness and death of George W. Harris.

Mr. and Mrs. John Frederick Schmidt and baby son, William Frederick, returned to their home at Middletown, Saturday, after a week's visit at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Schmidt.

The community was well represented at the Preble county fair during the past week.

Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Para, Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Beauris [?] and son, Hewitt of New Orleans motored to a convention at New York and came here for a few days visit with Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Cory. Miss Mae Hiney of Cincinnati was also a guest a the Cory home.

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Woodruff of Indian Creek spent Thursday afternoon at the home of Mrs. Lizzie B. Fisher.

Little Miss Irene Overholtz of Hamilton is visiting at the Mendenhall home.

Mrs. Joseph Gaiser spent Thursday at Eaton with Mrs. Sally Somers.

Mr. and Mrs. Laird Laughlin, Mr. and Mrs. George _____ [?] and daughter, Mildred spent the past week at Celina.

Several from here attended the funeral of Elmer Withrow at Hamilton Monday afternoon.

A number from here attended the outing given by the Co-operative Milk Association at the Zoo, Cincinnati, Saturday.

Mr. and Mrs. Woodruff of Hamilton, Miss Olive Ware of Collinsville visited during the past week at the home of Mrs. Ella ____ [?]

Mrs. Ernest Miller was a supper guest Sunday evening at the home of Misses Nellie and Maria Davis.

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bradbury and family were Saturday evening callers at the H. C. Brown home, Okeana.

Mr. and Mrs. George Harris and family of Paynette, Wisconsin are spending the week with relatives here.

Dr. Warren Hulse [?] of Detroit, Albert Dawson and Paul Conover of Pisgah called at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Miller, Sunday evening. Dr. Hulse was called here owing to the death of his mother, Mr. Conroy of Pisgah. Mrs. Conroy was the aunt of L. A. Miller.

Mr. and Mrs. William Buhi had, as their guests at Sunday dinner, Mr. and Mrs. Dean Clark and son, Billy, of Hamilton, Mrs. Harry Teckman and son, Charles Edward.

Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Gaiser entertained at six o'clock dinner Sunday evening. The guests were Miss Bertha Butterfield of New York, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Butterfield, Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Wehr, Mrs. Scott Engle, W. W. Vinnedge of Hamiton.

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1930_1 - Herzogs Move To Alabama

SOURCE: Newspaper article from files maintained by Bernice (Weiss) Lindley / hand-dated as February 11, 1930.

"Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Herzog left Monday morning for their new home in Tuscoloosa, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Herzog completed arrangements Saturday for their departure and left their old home Saturday evening. They spent the night at the home of Mrs. Ella Bufler and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bufler. Sunday morning they were present at the morning worship in the M. E. church and at the close of the service, many fond farewells were said. They, with F. S. Bufler, were dinner guests at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gus Bufler. Sunday night was spent at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bufler of Hamilton.

Mr. Herzog received word Saturday of the death and burial of his youngest brother in Pennsylvania. Friends sympathize with Mr. Herzog in the loss of his brother and also wish them success in their southern home. Their son, Ellis, and wife are located in Tuscaloosa and are happily awaiting the arrival of their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Herzog have always been closely associated in the worth-while affairs of the community. Mr. Herzog, in his younger days, was a teacher in the Milford township schools and for many years was the superintendent of the Darrtown Union Sunday School and a member of the council of St. Matthew's English Lutheran church.

The Teckman Transportation company took the contract for moving the household goods of Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Herzog. The large moving van was loaded Saturday afternoon and early Monday morning, Mr. and Mrs. Teckman left the village for Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the Herzogs are locating."

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(Warning: this news account includes details of the burning incident)

1930_2 - Mother Dies of Burns; Children Saved

From the Hamilton Daily News - April 17, 1930

DARRTOWN WOMAN DIES OF BURNS, BABIES SAVED

Fire Destroys Dwelling; Oil Poured On Flames

Mack Brock Forced to Break Window To Get Wife Out of Home -- Three Children In Another Room Escape Injury

Mrs. Mollie Brock, 23, wife of Mack Brock, a farmer living near Darrtown, died at 10 a.m., Thursday, in Ft. Hamilton hospital, the result of burns suffered when the Brock home was destroyed by fire Wednesday evening. Her burns covered practically her entire body and were deep. Most of her clothing was burned from her body.

Mrs. Brock was in the house at 6:30 p.m., with her children, the eldest three years of age. She was engaged in the preparation of the evening meal, while her husband was at work outside the house. Hearing an explosion, followed by screams of Mrs. Brock, he ran to the house.

Barred At Doors

Entrance was delayed by the fact that he found the doors locked. Breaking a window, he entered the dwelling, finding Mrs. Brock in the kitchen, a mass of flames. The interior of the kitchen was also in flames. Brock carried Mrs. Brock outside and fought to extinguish the flames.

She had poured kerosene on a fire in the stove and the flash set fire to her dress.

By good fortune, the three Brock children, the youngest nine months, were in another room of the downstairs part of the house. None of them was burned, being brought to safety by their father.

Neighbors living three-quarters of a mile distant saw the flames and gave alarm. The house, a frame dwelling, burned rapidly and was entirely destroyed. A summer kitchen located hear the house also was burned. Very little of the contents could be carried out so rapid was the advance of the flames. The loss was estimated at $3,000.00

Stove Blamed

Mrs. Brock was taken to the office of Dr. A. B. Wilkie in Darrtown by Fred Kramer, on whose farm the Brocks were tenants. Dr. Wilkie directed Mrs. Brock be taken to the Ft. Hamilton hospital. The Brock home is on the Fred Kramer farm, one and one-half miles north of Darrtown, on the Richmond pike. The three Brock children were taken to the home of relatives near Darrtown.

Mrs. Brock is survived by three children, Nellie Frances, 3; Enoch, 2; and a baby girl, Alice, 9 months old. Mr. Brock was burned on the hands and arms, when he rescued the baby from the flames, by climbing through a window in the house.

The Brock family, one of the oldest in Darrtown, lived on the Kramer farm for the past year. The house is said to be more than 50 years old.

The Kramer family, which owns the farm, lives about one-half mile from the Brock residence. Mr. Kramer saw the flames first and notified the Darrtown telephone exchange.

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1931_1 - Community News (Priscilla Club, Box Lunches, Farm Bureau, New Pastor, and more...)

From: Hamilton Evening Journal - 1931 / Sept. 23

PLEASANT PARTY ENJOYED BY PRISCILLA CLUB OF DARRTOWN

Young Men Entertain Their Girl Friends -- Important Meeting of Farm Bureau

The home of Mrs. Albert Witherby was the scene of a pleasant party Thursday afternoon, when Mrs. Witherby and Mrs. Luther Beiser entertained the members of the Priscilla Sewing Club and a number of invited guests.

Fancy sewing, chatting, and a group of interesting projects were the diversions of the afternoon. Mrs. Luella Ledwell was successful in the "Bible Jumble" and received a crystal salt and pepper shaker set and holder. The highest score in the "Floral Tea" and "Found In and On the Body" was held by Mrs. John Shaw and she was rewarded with a door-stop. Mrs. Franklin Cory and Mrs. Ernest Miller will be the October hostesses at the home of the former. The hostesses served a tempting lunch of banana split, cake, orange nectar, and mints at the close of the afternoon.

Girls Entertained

The members of the Young Men's class, Darrtown Union Sunday school entertained their girl friends at a pleasant wiener and marshmallow roast, Saturday night. The place chosen for the party was a picturesque spot along the creek, at the old Kyger farm. Games, also, formed a part of the diversion and the girls thoroughly enjoyed the fine party, which the boys and their teacher, Mrs. A. R. Wolfe, had arranged. The details of the event had been carefully guarded by the boys and many surprises were a part of the program.

The affair was attended by about twenty-five young folks. Several of the girls present were members of the young girls class of the Sunday school, with a few visitors from Oxford. The chaperones at the delightfully informal affair were the teacher and Mrs. Flora B. Ward.

Farm Bureau

The quarterly meeting of the MIlford Township Farm Bureau was held Tuesday night in the auditorium, Darrtown school house. G. O. Manrod, vice president was in charge of the business meeting. Gladys Ledwell and Jean Beiser gave a demonstration on room arrangement, representing the 4-H Clothing club of the township. A style show was also enjoyed. Mrs. Lee Mendenhall is the leader of the Clothing Club. Frances Lang and Luella Bowers gave a demonstration on making muffins. They represented the Food club of the township. Mrs. Phillip Beiser is the leader of the latter club. The members of the Calf and Poultry clubs were also present for the meeting. D. T. Herrman, county agent, gave a brief address concerning farm conditions at the present time. An interesting moving picture was shown as the closing number of the program. Following the program, all were invited to the school dining room, where a sumptuous covered dish supper was served. Coffee was served by the committee, Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Mr. and Mrs. James R. Harris.

Harvest Home Services

The annual Harvest Home services were conducted Sunday morning in St. Matthew's English Lutheran church.The donations of canned goods were neatly arranged at the front of the church. Many baskets and bouquets of fall fowlers added to the beauty of the arrangement.

Rev. Daubenbis delivered a message in keeping with the day and the choir, under the direction of Miss Viola Betz, sand an appropriate number. The donations of fruit were packed Monday and sent to the Oesterlen Orphan's Home, Springfield, Ohio.

New Pastor

Rev. Ralph Jones, newly assigned pastor of the M. E. church will occupy the pulpit at the regular service, Sunday morning, September 27, at 10:30.

Parent-Teachers

The Milford Township Parent-Teachers association will have the first meeting of the school year in the auditorium, Darrtown school house, Tuesday night, September 29. The members and friends of the school are urged to attend. The hot lunch committee of the P. T. A. sponsored a canning at the school house Tuesday afternoon.

An Accident

An auto accident occurred Sunday afternoon on the Hamilton-Richmond pike, near the Clem Pfaff farm. A coupe, occupied by two women and two men from Cincinnati, was side swiped by a passing car. The coupe was turned around a couple of times and landed in the ditch. The occupants of the rumble seat were thrown from the car and received injuries. Passing motorists and neighbors cared for the injured until the arrival of Webb's ambulance from Hamilton. The entire party was removed to Hamilton in the ambulance, but only one member of the group was severely injured. She received face and body bruises and a fractured wrist. The coupe was considerably damaged by the hit and skip driver, who made a quick get-away. The coupe was taken in charge by a garage man.

Warning Signs

New warning signs have been placed at the first cross roads north of the village. The signs are erected north and south of the crossing and it is hoped that strangers driving on that highway will notice the signs, so that accidents will be avoided.

Mary Havens Injured

Mary Ellen Havens, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Havens fell from a swing Wednesday, while playing at Collinsville School. The little miss fractured her arm at the wrist. She was taken to the Fort Hamilton hospital for treatment and remained there several days. She is gradually improving at the home of her parents.

Notes of Interest

Mr. Wheeler of Trenton has been employed as manual training teacher in the Milford Township High school.

Mr. and Mrs. John Wheeler, Mr. and Mrs. Felta Wheeler of Bath, Indiana, motored to Germantown, Ohio Wednesday afternoon, where they attended the funeral of their uncle, George Riggs. The burial was made on the family lot in the Oxford cemetery.

Mrs. Clara Witherby has returned to the Western College, Oxford, where she will resume her work in the boarding department.

E. T. Wilke of Toronto, Canada spent the past week at the home of his brother, Dr. A. B. Wilke and family.

Tommy McGlauglin of Dayton, Ohio, visited during the week at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Glardon. Mr. McGlaughlin has recently from a three years cruise of the far east and west. His many friends in the village were glad to greet him during his stay here.

Miss Jessie Lindley of Collinsville spent Thursday with Mrs. A. R. Wolfe.

Miss Elsie Fillager has returned to Cincinnat, after spending the summer at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Fillager. Miss Fillager will resume her teaching at the University of Cincinnati.

Rev. and Mrs. D. P. Heltzel and daughter, Miss Betty of Eaton attended church here Sunday morning and visited relatives during the remainder of the day.

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Arni of Bellefontaine spend Sunday with the former's sister, Mrs. Flora B. Ward and family.

Mr. and Mrs. George Zeller of Middletown spent the weekend at the Gaiser home.

Joseph Davis, Raymond Kane, William Glardon, and Thomas Shears attended the coon dog hunt at Venice Sunday afternoon.

Residents of this section of the county noticed a slight earthquake Sunday evening at 6 o'clock. it was later learned that the earthquake had been general over the state."

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1932_1 - James C. Kane Called by Death

SOURCE: Newspaper article from files maintained by Bernice (Weiss) Lindley / hand-dated as February 11, 1932.

"James C. Kane, who resided three miles southeast of Oxford passed away Thursday, 2:40 p.m., at Mercy Hospital of a complication of diseases, in his seventieth year. His wife preceded him in death 32 years ago. He leaves to mourn their loss, two sons, Ray and John Kane; one daughter, Mrs. Clint DeWitt, and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, 9 a.m., from St. Mary's Church in Oxford, with Father Rolfes officiating. Internment will be in Mt. Olive cemetery, at Oxford. Friends may call this afternoon and evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Clint DeWitt on the Oxford-Reily Road."

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1935_1 - Darrtown News - June 12

(Woman's Missionary, Ladies' Aid, Union Sunday School's Children's Day, news about recent graduates)

From Hamilton Journal - The Daily News - June 12, 1935

WOMEN'S GROUPS OF LUTHERAN AND M.E. CHURCHES IN SESSION

Members Gather At Homes of Mrs. Harry Bradbury and Mrs. Clara Witherby For June Meetings

The Woman's Missionary society of the Lutheran church met Wednesday afternoon at the home of Mrs. Harry Bradbury, Scott Road. A goodly number was in attendance and the usual mission topic was discussed, followed by a meeting of the Ladies' Aid Society of the church, during which plans were completed for the annual June social, which will be given, June 28. As social hour followed.

The Ladies' Aid society of the M.E. church met Thursday afternoon at the home of Mrs. Clara Witherby, with 25 members present and a guest, Mrs. Raymond Wisecup, of Oxford.

Several children joined the group at the social hour. Mrs. Nellie Hansel presided during the devotional meeting with Mrs. Howard Bryant reading the scripture lesson. Those participating in the home mission program were, Mrs. Franklin Cory, Mrs. Albert Witherby, Misses Maria and Nelle Davis. Communications were read by the secretary, Mrs. Olive McVicker. The committee for the summer social reported and July 9 was the date chosen for the annual event. Mrs. Arthur Harris invited the society to her home for the July meeting. During the social hour, the hostess served delicious ice cream, two kinds of cake, mints, and coffee.

The regular motion picture program was held Saturday night in the M.E. church with a fairly good number in attendance.

Members of the Semper Fidelis club gathered at the Lutheran church Thursday night for the regular devotional and business session.

Observe Children's Day

Children's Day was observed by Darrtown Union Sunday school, when the children presented a fine program Sunday morning at the Lutheran church during the regular worship hour.

The program follows:

    Song by the junior choir, Scripture lesson, Mary Alice Neanover; invocation, Rev. W.W. Larson; song by Junior choir; recitation, Joan Teckman; recitation, Helen Wills; recitation, Jean McVicker.

    Song by the members of Mrs. James R. Harris' class; exercise, Mary Cory, George Edgar Manrod, Vera Wyckoff; recitation, John Neanover; song by the choir; recitation, Mary Lee Fogerty; exercise, Charles Teckman, Freddy Schmidt, Alice May Kramer, Sarah Jane Manrod; recitation, Eileen Long; song, Helen McVicker, Mary Jane Betz, Dorothy Glardon, Jean Zimmerman; recitation, Doris Alston; recitation, Junior Wills; and song by the choir.

    Recitation, Gleanna Jasbring; song by the entire group of children; recitation, Grace Charlotte Krebs; "Secrets," "Sonny" Cory, Guy Metcalf, Jack Wiley; recitation, Jean Zimmerman; solo, Corrine Bufler; remarks and solo, Rev. W.W. Larson; offering; song by the choir; and benediction by the pastor.

Many beautiful bouquets and baskets of flowers were arranged in the church. The device was largely attended by fond parents. relatives, and other visitors.

The ladies of the Lutheran church will give their annual June social in the school auditorium on Friday evening, June 28. Homemade ice-cream, pies and cakes will be on sale throughout the evening and a program will be presented. The one-act play, "Pink Geranium" will be the important feature of the program. The usual cordial invitation is extended toe the public to attend the annual social event.

Meet to Choose Play

Mesdames Harry Teckman, Raymond Schmidt, Harry Bradbury, and James R. Harris motored to Franklin, Friday, and visited the Eldridge Entertainment House, where selection of the June social play was made.

Miss Helen Geisler, member of the class of 1937, Milford township High school has entered Mercy hospital, Hamilton, where she will enter the class in nurses' training. Miss Geisler attained a record of high standing throughout her school days and especially so in High school and friends wish for her the same success in future studies.

Miss Minerva Curtis, also of the class of 1935, Milford township High school, left Sunday for Wilmington College, where she will enter summer school preparatory to taking work there in the fall. Friends wish her success in her college work.

Several from here attended baccalaureate services and commencement exercises at Miami University Sunday and Monday mornings. Among those receiving diplomas were, Miss Gustabel Bradbury and Walter Alston. Melvin Ramsey of Dayton, former Darrtown boy, also received a degree. The three Miami graduates were also former graduates of the local HIgh school.

Mrs. Laird Laughlin attended the funeral of her cousin, Burton Hileman, Friday afternoon, at the Griesmer-Grim funeral home, Hamilton.

Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Wolfe and son, Carlisle, and Mrs. Ella Reese enjoyed motor trip to Kentucky, Sunday afternoon.

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ferst, little daughter, Lois Carolyn, of West Elkton called Sunday at the Reese home. Miss Wanda Wolfe also spent the day there with Helen Lucille McVicker.

Some from here represented the Darrtown Union Sunday school at the County Council of Religious Education, Saturday and Sunday, at Middletown.

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1946_1 - Darrtown News - February

SOURCE: Newspaper article from files maintained by Bernice (Weiss) Lindley / hand-dated as February 7, 1946.

"DARRTOWN PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION MEETS

The Darrtown Protective Association members held their annual meeting Saturday evening in the home of Mr. and Mrs. George D. Manrod. Besides the routine business and electionof officers, there was a general discussion of timely topics, including aid to law enforcement agencies. G.O. Manrod, Luther McVicker, Harry Teckman, and Charles Hansel were re-elected respectively to fill the offices of president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. Members and their wives enjoyed a delicious oyster supper preceding the meeting.

DARRTOWN PALS MEET

The Sunday School Pals will meet Tuesday evening with Mrs. Howard Bryant, 437 Cleveland Ave., Hamilton.

The Tallawanda Garden Club will meet Thursday afternoon, 14, in the home of Mrs. Hugh Decker. Mrs. Decker, and the assistant hostesses, Mrs. George Hansel and Mrs. Jack Steele include Priscilla club members in their invitation.

SEW FOR THE RED CROSS

Ladies of the community worked on quilt tops, when they sewed for the Red Cross at the Davis home on Tuesday. A co-operative dinner was enjoyed at noon.

DARRTOWN PERSONALS

Mrs. E.M. Wilson of Hamilton visited her sister, Mrs. L.A. Miller on Sunday.

Mrs. Ernest Miller, Mrs. Charles Hansel, Misses Nelle and Maria Davis were in Richmond, Ind. on Thursday and visited in the homes of Mrs. G.O. Ballinger and Mrs. C.E. Ballinger.

Little Steve Zellers of Middletown spent the weekend with his grandmother, Mrs. Jacob Gaiser. Mr. and Mrs. George Zellers were the Sunday guests in the Gaiser home.

Patricia and Mira Hansel were among the guests at a party give at the home of Dicky Murphy in Oxford on Saturday evening.

Mrs. Richard Bufler and daughters, Misses Faye and Mary Ellen, were Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Pierson Talbert of Selkirk.

Mrs. George Manrod is visiting her sister in Cincinnati.

Mrs. Richard Rinal left Saturday for Chicago, where she will join her husband, who was discharged from the army a short time ago.

Wilbur Pierson, who served in the army for about eighteen months has been discharged and has returned to his home.

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Jewell and family have moved from their Darrtown property to the Jewell farm on Township Road. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gault will live in the home vacated by the Jewells.

Mrs. Helen McVicker and Miss Mary Montgomery of Middletown spent the weekend at the Charles Hansel home."

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1953_1 - Three Old-Timers Get Together and Devise New Way for Burying

SOURCE: Hamilton Journal News / Sunday Morning, December 14, 1953 ~ by George Van Gieson

DARRTOWN - Conversation is by no means a lost art in Butler County. By chance, we met three old-timers who have lived in the county for a total of 238 years. They are the salt of the earth. And their conversation is worth listening to.

The three gentlemen are William "Babe" Ramsey, 79; Pete LIebrich, 80; and Theodore Decker, 79. What is more, they were all born within four months of each other and have lived in this Butler County community all their lives.

There can be no question about this: "Babe Ramsey is the ringleader of the trio. He brings up topics for conversation, then neatly disposes of them. It was "Babe" who brought up the subject of burying.

'You fellows ever think about the way they're going to bury you, when you die?' Babe questioned them. Upon receiving a negative reply from Pete and 'Doe' he continued to hold the floor.

'I never did like this business of laying you out flat, tossing mud in your face, and placing a chunk of stone over you. How are we ever going to get up, when resurrection time comes? When my time comes, I want them to stand me up, drive me straight down. Then, when the resurrection comes, I can shoot straight up to my reward.'

You will note that 'Babe' Ramsey has no doubt about where he is going. Pete and 'Doe' just nodded their heads. It was quite obvious that at this stage of life, they are thinking only of the years ahead. There was some talk about a neighbor who died recently at the age of 96. There was also an indication that the trio thought the gentleman had left this earth rather early in life.

Perhaps the most amazing thing about the three old-times is their admiration for this day and age. They called me over to the table and observed that the world is sure moving at a fast pace.

'It's terrific,' came from 'Babe.'

'Whew,' was the comment of Pete.

'Doe' nodded his head, in agreement.

They explained that, when they were kids, in Darrtown, it was about the only community they ever saw. 'You walked about everywhere,' Babe went on. 'Of course, there were stages, but they weren't for kids. Many and many a time, when we were boys, we would walk up to Collinsville. Gosh, it's wonderful the way you can travel about today. Then, you take television. It's great, isn't it? This old world has certainly come along, since the three of us were young.'

Pete Liebrich took the floor temporarily to explain that he was 'an Irishman, with a Dutch name.' His father, who died at 83, was born in Germany. Babe's father was a doctor and Decker's dad was a farmer. The trio of old-timers have 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

There are some tales told around Darrtown about 'Babe' Ramsey's driving in latter days. He still manages to get behind the wheel, but he doesn't drive too far away. 'Babe' admits that there is some truth to the stories about his battle with a fire hydrant in Hamilton a couple of years ago and all Darrtown was agog a few years back when Ramsey's car was sighted on the steps of the Knights of Pythias Hall.

'Sometimes, my eye gets out of fix,' he calmly explains.

Then, he goes on to say it used to take two hours to drive to Hamilton, with a horse and buggy, but you can make it quicker in a car.

He laughs about the fact that his two buddies and himself were all born within four months of each other.

'We were all trying to get here first,' Pete Liebrich told us; then added, 'But, I made it first.'

'Babe' had a brush with religion a few years ago. He went to church on Easter Sunday morning on a day when the preacher took his congregation to task for not coming more often. The preacher indicated that coming to church once a year on Easter was not sufficient.

'I didn't like that viewpoint,' the elderly 'Babe' said. 'I had my hand on a dollar in my coat pocket that I was going to put in the collection basket. But, when the preacher bawled us out, I reached in another pocket and found a quarter. That preacher just cheated himself out of seventy-five cents.'

Babe is quite a noted fiddler, in the area. As he puts it, he has been 'fiddling,' since he was nine years old. He still plays, but only for his own enjoyment."

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Darrtown News - February (Sunday School Pals Meet, WSCS Sewing, Notes of Interest, and Lane Bookmobile Schedule)

SOURCE: Hamilton Journal - The Daily News - Wednesday, Feb. 6, 1957 - Page 23

Darrtown News

By MIss Maria L. Davis

Special to Journal-News

The Sunday School Pals will meet on Tuesday night, Feb. 12, at the home of Mrs. Stanley Mathews.

Milford Township Parent Teachers Association will meet Friday night, Feb. 15, in the Collinsville School. Founder's Day will be observed.

The 70th annual meeting of the Darrtown Protective Association was held a the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Mee, preceded by an oyster supper. The officers are: Kirk Mee, president; Luther McVicker, vice president; Ernest L. Miller, secretary; and Warren C. Hansel, treasurer. The ladies auxiliary held its annual social meeting at the same time.

At the close of Darrtown Union Sunday School in St. Matthew Lutheran Church recently Mrs. Harry Teckman, treasurer, gave the annual financial report. The school made its annual contributions to each of the village churches.  During the worship service, which followed, the Rev. Donald Zinger conducted communion.

The WSCS of the Methodist Church held the first of a series of carpet rag sewings at the church. A cooperative luncheon was served.

Robert Young, a student at Ohio University, Athens, spent several days at home with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Young.

Mrs. John Nichol spent a day in Cincinnati as a guest of her aunts, Misses Helen, Kate, and Lela Gray.

W. H. Ogden, Cincinnati, former principal of the old Milford Township School, was a recent caller at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Alston.

Walter Wyckoff, Nashville, Tenn. spent a weekend at the home of Mr. and Mrs. B. M. Wyckoff.

Mr. and Mrs. James Atwood, Richmond, Ind., called on an uncle, Raymond Kane, who observed his birthday anniversary.

Brooklyn Dodgers Manager, Walter Alston has been spending several days in New York.

Mr. and Mrs. Risch have moved from the Singer property to the Kramer property, which was recently vacated by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Krauth and daughters.

Lane Public Library Bookmobile Schedule

Thursday, February 7, 1957

Darrtown Pike - Schultheiss Service Station (9:00 - 9:20)

Darrtown Village - (9:30 - 10:15)

Seven Mile Bank (10:30 - 11:10)

Seven MIle School (12:15 - 2:15)

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Recollections of the Darrtown Community

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If you recognize errors or omissions, please inform the Webmaster. The items are listed in APPROXIMATE chronological order. Some of the articles were undated; thus, the dates are approximated with "circa" dates, that were formulated from the events that were reported within the articles.

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