West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 150 by Charlie Miller

Gladys Jewett continued.

We played on the dry goods boxes

In front of Byron Fellows store,

But when “Bird” Clark rang the curfew,

We weren’t there any more.

Across the street from our home

Stood the bakery of John Kubitschack;

The trips that I made to that store,

Would more than fill “Santa’s” pack.

If we had a nickel for candy,

We would spend one cent at each store;

And then put it all in one sack

And ‘twould make a pound or more

We would stroll to the old town bridge,

The creek where we all loved to wade,

At the sound of the six o”clock bell,

Home to supper we all would raid.

Last but not least was our hay mow,

The place where had our big shows;

A trapeze was hung from the rafters

Where we tried to hang by our toes.

Now those carefree days are over,

The old town is a different place.

New faces and places have changed it.

But sweet memories even time can’t erase.

I wish everyone could know of the places that she described. The stream, of course, is Little Darby Creek. The town pump sat in front of the Baptist Church on Main Street. The Opera House is still the town hall, though remodeled. It had a nickelodeon theater and traveling shows. The schoolhouse was the Union School that sat in the middle of what is now Garrette Park. The old sawmill sat off of Fellows Avenue, just east of the old high school where the old athletic field was, now the site of the Ox Roast. “Little Dick” was L. C. Dick; he was a teacher, Post Master, and the County Superintendent. I can remember him probably from 1942 when I was in the 1^st Grade, and he visited our class. He was a little short man. ‘Bird’ Clark was the town Night Watchman.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 151 by Charlie Miller

The following series are articles taken from the October 15, 1934 edition of the West Jefferson section of The Madison Press.

_ October 15, 1934 – Mammoth Three Day Program Planned For Town’s Centenary – Kiddies’ pet parade to feature opening day’s festivities—Mardi Gras will be held Thursday—Grand auto parade will be staged on Saturday afternoon.

Band concerts, round and square dancing, and free acts are also scheduled--$1,000 in prizes to be given away by village merchants.

Mayor’s Proclamation—Through the efforts of the Business Men’s Association of our village, the splendid cooperation of civic groups, and the financial aid of businesses, the week of October 14 has been set aside as a week commemorating the birth of West Jefferson.

Therefore, I, by virtue of my office as Mayor of the Village of West Jefferson, designate and proclaim the week of October 14 as “West Jefferson Centennial Week” and ask that every effort to aid and assist in making the Centennial Week the success it deserves, by displaying flags in homes and business places, and extending greetings and good wishes to our own people and the strangers within our gates.

H. G. Putnam, Mayor

The grand climax of West Jefferson’s “birthday party” will be the mammoth parade on Saturday afternoon. The parade will form at 1 o’clock at the water tower on West Main Street, according to C. J. Murray, chairman of the committee. Prizes will run from $1.00 to $25.00.

West Jefferson and community will turn back the pages of time this week, the entire populace joining in a huge celebration in which the 100th birthday of the village will be observed, bringing to the minds of the residents a kaleidoscopic view of the epochs marking West Jefferson’s march of progress from 1834 to the present time—a century filled with events rich in history. The celebration will begin on Thursday with the pet parade for children. (I remember pet parades were a big thing for years. There wasn’t the traffic on Main Street as now.) Later on, there will be a band concert in the evening.

The grand climax will come at 1 P .M. Saturday when a band concert and mammoth parade of decorated autos, floats, old-time vehicles, people dressed in pioneer costumes, etc. will be held. The London Creamery Band has been engaged to furnish music and these concerts, along with the free acts. The carnival and special events, insure that there will be something going on all the time. One of the free acts will be Hawaiian Guitar Playing and Tumbling Act, another will be a Rope Walker. Dance music will be by the London Nite Owls.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 152 by Charlie Miller

From 1934 Centennial -

-West Jefferson Odd Fellows was founded in 1869. Odd Fellows began in England during the time of the Industrial Revolution with the purpose of helping their fellow men. They were organized in Ohio at Cincinnati in 1830. On June 2, 1869, five men petitioned for a lodge at West Jefferson; they were J. C. Blair, William Wallace Fellows, David Oakley, and W. C. Welling. J. H. Randall and Gilbert C. Deems. The first meeting of the West Jefferson Lodge #412 was held Wednesday night, June 2, 1869, with James Turner, Grand Master of Ohio. The officers elected were: J. C. Blair, Noble Grand; J. H. Randall, Vice Grand; Gilbert Deems, Secretary; W. W. Fellows, Treasurer. The first bills that they paid were: Coal Bucket, $1.00, Coal Oil, one gallon, 40c., Lamp Chimney, 20c., Matches, 10c. We know of no monument to the fellowship of the Odd Fellows than their work than Odd Fellows Home at Springfield.

-Mellott’s Drug Store will have a double celebration this week. Along with the Centennial event, the Rexall one-cent sale will be conducted for four days starting Wednesday morning.

-GREEN SEAL BEER - Green Seal Beer satisfies – Try one of our Virginia Baked Ham Sandwiches.

The Palace Cafe, Famous for 35 years., William Wanzel, Prop. (William Wanzel built the building at 25 W. Main St. He passed away in 1953.)

Congratulations on making West Jefferson the Town of Today. An institution that has grown with the modern demands of West Jefferson. Pledged to service for this great community of people from the day of its inception by the founder, W. H. Pence, many years ago. From horse-drawn crude appearing funeral coach and invalid cars, the progressive company has not only kept pace with the town’s advancement but today has every modern facility in keeping with their dignified profession.

INVALID CAR SERVICE – PENCE & BLAUSER, Phone 119-j or 33, West Jefferson.

- GREETINGS- It is with great pleasure and infinite pride in the achievements of the community that we congratulate the people of West Jefferson on their splendid heritage that has been 100 years in the making. RECOB’S MEAT MARKET “Our Meats Will Be Sure To Please You.” R. W. Recob, prop. Phone 135, West Jefferson.

- EXTENDING GREETINGS – To every Jeffersonian upon the great development of our great town during the past one hundred years. We look forward with confidence that West Jefferson will have a great future. See us for RCA Victor and Grunow Radios, Thor and Maytag Washers, and All kinds of electrical appliances. We have been in business for the past 13 years. A. J. Braithwaite, prop.

(This was located in the west half of the building on the northeast corner of Main and Center streets. Now, the site of the Veterans Park. The I.G.A. was in the other half.)

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 153 by Charlie Miller

From the 1934 West Jefferson Centennial

- Greetings, West Jefferson, on your centennial. - May you continue to prosper. Expert Service by expert men. Gas & oil, three electric gas pumps, Tires & Tire Repair, and Accessories improve the appearance of your car with new accessories. Greasing, complete high-pressure greasing and lubricating. Standard Products, Atlas Tires, Battery Work. MILLER’S SERVICE STATION, M. M. Miller Prop. West Main Street. (This was Martin Miller, who is located in the building currently housing the Eye Doctor. Martin later sold a new Nash automobile at this location.)

- Liberty Bell to be Rung Thursday – For the first time in many years the West Jefferson’s “Liberty bell” will speak again when it peals out at two o’clock Thursday afternoon to spread the tidings of the 100^th anniversary of the founding of the village. The bell has been silenced since the time that the old town hall was razed to give way to the building on Main Street, which now bears the same title. (1893) After the new building was erected the bell was stored away, only the Indians know where, and it was not until a few years ago that it was discovered in its present location in the attic of Gillivan’s Hardware store. “Paddy” Gillivan, who is now managing the store, was prevailed upon to drag out the ancient bell to do its bit in the ceremonies of the week. Can’t you imagine what an interesting tale that bit of iron could tell if it could speak—how many children have scuttled away at the first clap of the curfew? How those first horses stamped the minute the gong sounded, to say flames had burst out someplace in the village in their impatience to get the firefighters to the scene of action.

Listen for the knell of the bell as it tolls out the glad tiding on the eighteenth day of October 1934.

(This bell was also brought out in 1976 for the country's 200th anniversary. It can be seen at the Hurt/Battelle Memorial Library.)

-The Coral Rebekah Lodge was instituted in 1887 with 23 charter members. Only four of these remain Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Dick, Mrs. Ella Dunn, and Mr. J. C. Jack. Mrs. Mary Fellows was the first Noble Grand; the second year, it was Mrs. Dick. Dessa McCoy is the present Noble Grand, and Florence Kell is the Vice Grand. In 1900, the enrollment was 104.

-The construction of the City Hall and Opera House was started in 1893 and finished in 1894. Lots Nos. 7 and 8 were set aside for public use by town founder Isaac Jones. For many years, this was the site of the old two-story brick building, which was finally razed to make way for the new hall. This building, in the early nineties, was considered the last work in imposing and distinctive architecture for the small town. The interior arrangement, however, was not designed to meet future requirements. This error, however, has been corrected to some extent. To the City Fathers, much credit is due for the remodeling. To date, we have a beautiful auditorium containing 3200 sq. ft. of floor surface. This hall is adapted to a myriad of uses. Local gatherings, dances, and sports, to mention a few. Special credit is due to Mr. J. M. Palmer, and also special credit should be extended to Messrs Stephen Martin, Frank Peters, and Merkle Miller (my grandfather), who have given generously of their time and offered every facility in their power for this improvement. Our citizen should extend their congratulations to this body of men for their public-spirited interest in a worthy cause. (Some bricks from the 1855 building were used in the new one.)

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 154 by Charlie Miller

From West Jefferson 1934 Centennial

-TEXACO – Fire Chief Gasoline, It’s the speediest gas on the market, developed for fire engines, and yours at no extra price. There never was such a snappy, quick-starting, fast-performing gasoline anywhere. Try a tankful. Also, Texaco Crack-proof Motor Oil. Let us drain and refill your crankcase with fresh Texaco or Waxfree Havoline Oil. Firestone Tires and Tubes. SUNSET OIL CO. A. F. Dietsch & Son. Phone 2, West Jefferson.

- The search for material for the “Centennial” edition of the West Jefferson News has brought to light the diary of one John Melvin, who at the time was Auditor of Madison County in 1853, lived in West Jefferson, commuting to his work in London on the Pennsylvania R. R., Mrs. Melvin going over on the six o’clock train taking supper with him and returning at 9 or 9:15 o’clock. The trips were made on freight and mail trains, with scarcely any mention of a passenger train. Some excerpts from the diary follow: March 12, 1853, he went to Columbus, “Got money changed and R. R. tickets for my wife to go to N. Y.” Monday, April 4, 1853, “Staid at home it being election day—Temperance ticket carried in Jefferson town—Township went whiskey.” Evidently, Mr. Melvin’s office was housed in the old log courthouse since he makes reference to exhibiting plans and specs for the courthouse. August 2, 1853, “Commissioners today contracted with “Tumbull to build new court house for $26,975.00 to be finished July 1^st, 1855.” Sunday, August 21st, “Wife and I went to a Baptist meeting at 3 p.m. My wife and I went to a camp meeting and returned at 7 p.m.” Saturday, September 17. “Went to London at 9 a.m. Whig county convention met today; was a delegate; did not work.” On Monday, November 14, he moved his office to the Phifer building and continued his work there while the new courthouse was being constructed. On December 15, 1853, Mr. Melvin says he gave up the keys to the house in Jefferson.

Dr. Amos F. Green – A native of Pennsylvania, came to Ohio when 16 and settled in Lithopolis and worked on a farm. He later enlisted in the Regular Army, where he was on duty in Montana. He returned to Columbus, where he worked for Blackwood, Green & Company. Later, he became a fireman on the B&O Railroad. He could no longer resist the desire that he had to become a doctor; with the assistance of Dr. Turney, the Railroad Physician, he entered the Starling Medical College while working part-time for the railroad. He graduated in 1894. He was located in West Jefferson in 1905, where he remained for the rest of his life. He was a member of the Methodist Church, was mayor of West Jefferson for six years, and served as County Coroner. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of the World, Odd Fellows, thirty-second degree Mason, and Aladdin Shrine. His death occurred in May 1929.

- Cletus Murray, “Judge” as he is familiarly known, is a junior member of the firm of John Murray &Son. After completing his college work at Georgetown University and Ohio State, he became a member of the grain firm in 1922. He is serving his second term as Commander of the American Legion post, is a past president of the Business Men’s Association, and a former councilman. He is a member of the executive committee in charge of the Centennial. Fishing and hunting are his hobbies.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 155 by Charlie Miller

From West Jeff Centennial

- Shell Special – Thursday, Friday, Saturday. These prices are good for 3 days only. Super X or Nitro Express, Box of 25s-89c. All other standard grades Box of 25s -69c. Make this store your headquarters during the centennial celebration. Farmers Implement Co. Harry Coe Mgr. Phone 192

- Masonic Lodge No. 221 F. & A. M. is, at present, perhaps the oldest institution in this place. On October 22nd of this year, it will have been in existence as a chartered lodge for 82 years. On December 20, 1851, a number of free and accepted Masons met at the home of Richard Acton to take into consideration the establishment of a lodge of Masons at this place. Present were Benjamin Crabb, John Melvin, T. J. Stutson, Samuel Davidson, O. P. Crabb, Geo. Archer, James Parks, and Richard Acton.

It was resolved to establish a lodge of F. & A. M. to be known as Hubbard Lodge and elected a site for the lodge room on lot No. 9 in the J. W. Simpkins building. (the current site of Veterans Park) Officers elected were W. M. Benjamin Crabb, S. W. Jno. Melvin, and J. W. Thos. J. Stutson. By-laws were established on Feb. 3, 1852. A charter was granted on Oct. 22, 1852, at which time the name was changed to Madison Lodge No. 221, and Benjamin Crabb was again elected W. M. Current W. M. is Harold B. Rader.

- I.H.C. Farm Tools – A full line of genuine repairs for all makes of farm machinery. Used farm tools, Corn Shredder, Tractor Plows, Tractor Disc, Etc. Centenary Greetings To All Jeffersonians.

R. L. PARSONS-The implement man. 137 N. Walnut St.

- In the olden days, wooden bridges were in vogue. They were eventually torn down. One covered bridge spanned Little Darby on East Main St, another on the Middle Pike, known as the Conklin bridge, and a third at the foot of the hill on the Blair Road which had no roof but a high wooden balustrade on each side for protection and was known as the Gauley bridge.

- During the Civil War, the following were members of Co. C, 154 Reg’t O.N.G. Its Captain was Alex Swanston, 1st Lt. J. M. Jones, 2nd Lt. Isaac Hambleton, Sergeants, J. A. Arnett, C. H. Putnam, E. R. Hill, J. M. Lewis, Corporals, Geo. Hann, David Lucas, Samuel Sidner, Jas. Farrington and George Price. Dr. John Nobel Beach was commissioned Surgeon of the 40th O. V. I.

- We will mention some of our older citizens who are making an effort to recall their names. Do you remember:

The general store of O. H. Bliss and the old warehouse on the site of the present railroad depot? (N. Walnut St.) The stockyards north of the viaduct entrance on West St? (On the east side of Depot St. north of the R. R.) The log yard where S. G. Fedder now resides? (130-132 E. Main St.) The broom factory and broom storage of Lester Burnham on the site are now owned by John Chenos.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 156 by Charlie Miller

More old timers from West Jefferson Centennial – 

Do you remember?

- The home of Dr. Colliver, the corner of Main and West Streets, and the famous well at the curb in front? (This was on the southeast corner) The railroad pumping station and the ancient pump house where Mr. Powell was in charge for many years?

-That Isaac Jones, the founder of West Jefferson, is buried in the New Hampton Cemetery?

- That Dr. Snyder occupied for many years the historic building on the southeast corner of Main and Walnut St which is still standing and was the home of James Farrington an early and prominent citizen? (Current Huntington Bank)

- That Alex Swanston built the present Building & Loan structure and made it practically a one-person job? (Still standing on the northwest corner of Main & Walnut Streets. This building was built in 1858)

- Do you remember that Gaines Simpkins, the saddler, well known to all in his time, lived in the house still standing at the southwest corner of Main & Bridge Sts.?

- Remember the old mill race was built by Thos. Cartmill to supply water power for a vertical saw and an overshot wheel at his grist Mill? (This was at the end of the Mill Road.)

- Remember the well in front of the Baptist Church with its huge wooden trough where stagecoach horses were watered? Was it a real treat for tired and dusty travelers on the National Road? (The church sat on the southeast corner of Main and Center Streets.)

- Lastly, the old Town Hall, its diminutive tower, and a squawky little bell that, on a quiet evening, could be heard at least two blocks away?

- A short biography of the town founder, Isaac Jones. He was born in New Jersey in 1802 and came to Ohio in 1819 with his father, Samuel. In 1821, he married Eliza, the daughter of John Mills. Later, 110 acres were deeded to him by his father, and he formed the original plat of the Village of Jefferson. He was a member of the Baptist Church and founded it in 1820. He was ordained as a minister about 1835. In 1840, Governor Shannon appointed him an Associate Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, which he served until his death on September 22, 1842.

Is is fitting, therefore, on this night to pay a silent tribute to the memory of the Rev. Isaac Jones and to his co-workers. They founded a community, they helped to build a nation.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 157 by Charlie Miller

- One of two businesses that lasted 100 years was John Murray and Son. In 1890, John Murray and Frank Gallager opened a business dealing in grain, lumber, and coal under the name of Gallagher & Murray. (This business was located just on the north side of the railroad between Depot and Jackson Streets. This was before the railroad was elevated.) In 1900, the business was dissolved, and Mr. Gallagher opened a business in London, and Mr. Murray continued it in Jefferson, operating under his name. In 1922, the business was named John Murray & Son. Cletus Murray, his son, became a partner. The original plat consisted of an old-style grain elevator, two lumber warehouses, and space for unloading coal. In 1913, the Pennsylvania Rail Road elevated the tracks through the village, taking the property where the elevator was located. Mr. Murray received the plot on the east side of North Walnut Street and erected a new plant. In 1922, equipment was added for the unloading of coal by an electric conveyor from hopper cars to the overhead storage bin that was then erected, as well as storage bins.

In 1921, trucks were added instead of horses for making deliveries, and a 15-ton truck scale was installed for the weighing of trucks. In 1929, equipment and machinery were added for the manufacture of deeds and processing of homegrown gains with molasses, giving the farmer the opportunity to use their own grains for the feeding of livestock under the name of Greenback Feeds, which are exclusively made by John Murray & Son. 1930 saw the addition of Sherwin-Williams Paints, glass, and several other lines of building products. Mr. John Murray has been actively connected with the business and is, at the present time, coming near the end of his 45th year in this community.

(John Murray was born October 10, 1857, at Jeffersonville, and died April 1955, age 98. His father, Martin, and mother, Bridget, were both born in Ireland. In 1888, he married Mary Gallagher. I can remember him driving to work probably around 1950. His grandson used to tell the story that when his grandpa, who drove himself to work, would cross Main Street at the Walnut Street traffic light, and that he didn’t care if it was red or green, he’d go anyway!)

- Smith's Barber Shop, First class Work, Three Chairs –no waiting. Elmer Smith, Seth Gambill. (I got my first haircut from Elmer Smith in the building where the Huntington Bank is now.)

- Corwin Carter- The honor of being the oldest resident of West Jefferson is claimed by Corwin Carter, who celebrated his 84th birthday on September 27th. Mr. Carter lives on Frey Avenue with his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. James Berry. Thomas Corwan Carter, better known to his friends as Corwin, was born September 27th, 1840, in Paint Township, Madison County. On February 12, 1889, he was united with Miss Ella McMurray. On May 2, 1864, he enlisted and mustered into the United States service at Camp Denison on May 9, 1864. He served in Co. C, 154th regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorable discharged in September of 1864. (Corwin Carter died June 1, 1935, and is buried at the Deer Creek Cemetery, Lafayette. The newspaper had it wrong when they said that he was 84. He was 94.)

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 158 by Charlie Miller

- 1934 Business advertising in the Centennial edition of The Madison Press -

- West Jefferson, On Your 100th Birthday, May You Continue to Prosper…

Dr. J. Wm. Hurt The Emergency Hospital West Jefferson.

- The World’s Most Famous Name in Modern Transportation—Since the first days of the horseless carriage, when Main Street was still an unpaved street, the name Chevrolet has been associated with famous names in the motor car industry. From those very early days, marvelous improvements have come to motor cars. Highways, too, have changed. Smooth, broad super highways now lead anywhere, and the purr of the modern-day Chevrolet brings joy to the heart of its owner.

Roy Gorham, Phone 111, Service with a smile West Jefferson. (His building was later the Timmons Dairy. This is the brick building at 84 E. Main St. It currently (2023) holds three businesses.)

- Gillivan' Hardware Store—68 years and still sailing along. To have kept the old bark afloat in West Jefferson through many turbulent conditions for 68 years and bring it safely into port is in itself progress. Service and quality merchandise have been the continuous watchwords of this business: Florence Heaters and a complete line of hardware.

- Central Garage—Finley Strothers operates the Central Garage located just north of Main on Center Street, which is best known by its slogan “A fan belt for every car.” His chief hobby is its elimination knocks from motors and fighting fires. He is Assistant Fire Chief.

- Farmers Co-Operative Cream Station —Farmer-owned, Farmer controlled. 1924-1934. Bring in your cream and receive full market value. Open daily except Sunday, as well as Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Charles Phillips, President, Orville Shannon, vice President, Levi Kent Treasurer. Thurman Bidwell, Secretary. Lem Gregg, Station manager. (Located on the northwest corner of Walnut and Town Streets.)

- Mellots Drug Store —On the Corner "Tune in on Station WLW each day at 10 A.M. Rexall Medicine Kit 50c. A $1.15 value. 1 pound box Gales Deluxe Chocolates 55c. A $1.00 value.

Don’t miss this one-cent sale."

- E. J. Britton & Son, - “I have learned many practical lessons in sound buying. I have also learned that PRICE without Quality is always a bad bargain. So I shop at Britton’s with an eye to Substantial Savings. The difference I save. Groceries –Fresh fruits – Clothing – Shoes – Dry – Good - Etc. We are always in the market for your poultry – Phone 151

- J. D. Baber Motor Sales. Our knowledge of motor cars, based upon our years of experience, has convinced us that Plymouth Cars possesses the essential qualities of economical transportation with the maximum of style and comfort. East Main Street, West Jefferson.

West Jefferson in Days Gone By - series 159 by Charlie Miller

Businesses advertising in the 1934 Centennial newspaper-

- When West Jefferson was a tiny settlement, electricity was unknown—but today electricity lightens the burden of everyone—economically. We are proud to take part in the Centennial Celebration.

West Jefferson Power & Light Co.

Cooking School. Tuesday October 16, 4 p. m. Methodist church basement. 10 cents per member will be given to the respective club, for each member present at this cooking school held under the auspices of the Ohio Edison Electric Shop Co.

- Best wishes to my home town on its one-hundredth anniversary. Clyde Johnson General Blacksmith Work, West Jefferson.

- Davis Restaurant West Main Street, West Jefferson. You’ll enjoy eating here, we feature dinners—lunches—Fried Chicken—Steaks--Short Orders.

- Gulf Gasoline—Crankcase Service, Firestone Tires and Tubes, Auto Accessories. Edward Cochrun. (Ed was located on the corner of W. Main Street and Blair Road. It was known as the Rock Filling Station.)

- R. I. Blauser Co. Centennial Greetings. Buy furniture for less in West Jefferson. Studio Cedar Chest Bed—Colonial style in solid maple, only…..$35.00. (currently 2023) occupied by the Chevron Pool Company.)

- West Jefferson The Town of Today. An institution that has grown with the modern demands of West Jefferson. Pledged to service for this great community of people for the day of its inception by the founder W. H. Pence many years ago.

- QUALITY FOOD At popular prices has been our policy for 25 years. Eat in comfort, too, for there’s comfort and quiet refinement as well as fine food here. DINNERS AND LUNCHES, Steaks, Chops, sandwiches. A hearty Welcome to Centennial visitors. The Star Hotel J. W. Kubitschack prop.

- The West Jefferson Meat Market joins with all West Jefferson in celebrating our progress over the last 100 years. We take this opportunity to express a Centenary greeting to all our customers and to thank them for their splendid patronage. Government inspected—that’s the kind we sell. David Davies Baby Beer, Amours' Star skinned hams; best the market affords: half or whole, pound 23c. Don’t fail to see our shop, which has been completely decorated by the Armour Packing Co.

Ed Arganbright “Quality is Our Motto” Phone 23.