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Blair County Newspaper Articles

News, obituaries, birth, marriage and death notices, by date.

Items from The Altoona Tribune, Altoona, Pa.,

Thursday, January 10, 1884

ADDITIONAL LOCAL NEWS.
COMMITTEE OF FORTY-EIGHT.
The Sub-committee on Reservoir and City Water Works Report.

The regular meeting of the committee of forty-eight for January was held Thursday with a good attendance of the members. After the reading of the minutes the regular committees were called for reports. The committee on reservoir and city water works made the following report, which was adopted as the report of the committee:

To the Chairman and Members of the Citizens' Committee of Forty- eight: Since your committee submitted their report on the first of January, 1883, to the people of this city, at the opera house, nothing was done toward completing the reservoir at Kittanning Point until about the middle of June last. The great obstacle to be overcome before the work could be resumed was the difficulty of raising the necessary money for the purpose. It was supposed by many that it would be necessary to raise this money by a vote of the people in the same manner adopted in raising the $60,000 loan of 1880. But when the new council was organized in April a majority of that body went to work in earnest and soon it was discovered that the limit for increasing the bonded indebtedness had been reached and that the only way open for raising the necessary funds was by an increase in the rate of taxation. The tax rate for the year was fixed by council, and upon the strength of the tax duplicates, made up early in June, the work was let out to the lowest responsible bidders, who proved in the judgment of council to be the Campbell brothers, of this city, and on the 30th of June last, an agreement was executed between them and the city for the completion of the work. This agreement simply required Campbell Bros., to manage and superintend the work, they furnishing all tools and machinery, including derricks, clay mills, rollers, cars and all other implements needed for the successful prosecution of the work, and to receive as their compensation ten per centum upon the wages of the men and the hire of the horses and carts and teams employed. Under this agreement work was resumed at Kittanning early in July last and was continued until December 15th, when, owing to the cold weather, which then set in, work was stopped for the season.

At the time of resuming work it was found that a portion of the rolled embankment at the west end of the dam had been carried away by high water during the past winter and spring. It was also discovered that the wing walls of masonry on either side of the cut stone pier were not in sufficiently firm condition to hold the embankment to be built against them. The foundation for the rolled clay embankment east of the sewer was found to contain a large quantity of mud and gravel which had been washed in during the time intervening since work was discontinued by the original contractors. Work necessarily began at these points, and in the matter of wing walls of masonry it was deemed necessary by those in charge of the work, to construct an additional wall outside of those previously built, in order to make them sufficiently strong to support the embankment and to keep the water from passing through from the front.

In doing this it was necessary to make an excavation at the side of these wing walls to the level of the foundation on which they were built, and in doing this it was found that the wall at the east side of the tower was so defectively constructed that it was necessary to take it down and rebuild it. After this preliminary work was accomplished work was vigorously prosecuted during five months, and an embankment was raised to the height of about thirty-five feet throughout the entire length of the dam. On the 24th of November the stop gate and draw-head in the tower were put in place, and the pipe connecting the little damn with the reservoir on Prospect hill east of the city was cut inside of the embankment near the pier, and on that day, about 5 p. m., the city began to receive its supply of water from the new reservoir. The water in the basin rose slowly, as the demand in the city was almost equal to the supply furnished by the streams flowing into the dam above, but on the 15th of December, when the committee and many of the citizens visited Kittanning, it was found that the depth of water in the basin at the breast of the dam was about thirty feet and covering a surface of about fifteen acres in area. Since then the water has risen to the full height of the dam as completed, and on January 1, when two members of your committee visited that locality, a heavy volume of water was passing over the breast through the temporary outflow put in by the Campbell Bros. a few days before suspending work.

The depth of water on that day was about four feet greater than on December 15, making thirty-four feet as the depth at the breast at that time. It is a source of much satisfaction to the people of this city that at last, after the expenditure they have already made, although great, that this work has been advanced so rapidly within the past six months toward completion, and for the successful prosecution of the work during that time, the efforts of the president of the city council, together with those of the chairman of the department of water and those other members of council who have worked for this success, cannot fail of recognition by the people of this city at this time.

Your committee regret, however, to be compelled to report that a portion of the work performed by the original contractors was not as thoroughly constructed as it should have been. The masonry in the pier and that under the sewers seem to be defective - so much so as to allow water to pass through it in a stream of the capacity to fill a six-inch pipe. This is observable now at the mouth of the sewer and will certainly have the effect in a very short time, if not remedied, of damaging the structure along the course of this stream and forming a passage way that will discharge water as rapidly as it accumulates in the dam. This defect was found early in the summer to exist and an effort was made by Campbell Bros., when they began to work, to check or cut off this current of water that was discovered to be escaping through and under the masonry. This effort, it seems, resulted in only partial success. This defect must be remedied at the earliest day possible, because a live stream of water of the volume of sic inches or more in diameter passing through or under this masonry may in a very few months cause the whole embankment to give way. How this defect shall be remedied will be a question to be passed upon at an early day by council under the guidance of the best engineering skill. The masonry does not seem to have been made water right, and whether it can be now made secure in this particular without taking down the entire work in the pier and a portion of the sewer and embankment will be the question. If it shall be found necessary to take down this work this deficit in the work will then be fully appreciated, for this cannot possibly be done under an expenditure of less than $5,000.

The cost of the entire work up to this time, so far as your committee have been able to ascertain is as follows:

Expended prior to the 1st of January, 1883, for:

Engraving bonds, $768.00
Writing specifications, 4.00
Mrs. Wolfe for land, 700.00
Pipes, vales and freight on same, 2,768.70
Plumbing, lead and hauling, 377.38
Castings and patterns, 364.17
Lead, $185.64
Employes' fare and use transit, 60.47
Engineer and assistants, $1,157.87
Dhrew & Bell, on account of reservoir, 37,345.32
County road, 1,684.45
Total, $45,419.00
Expenditures since January 1st, 1883, including cost of materials, wages of men, salary of engineer, etc., 29,310.35
Making the entire cost up to January 1st, 1884, $74,726.35

To finish the work will require an expenditure of at least $10,000. The original plan contemplated an embankment of the height of thirty- five feet, the height to which the work has already been carried, but that plan having been enlarged makes it necessary to carry the embankment fifteen feet higher in order to make the structure appear finished. This, it is expected, will receive attention from council as early next spring as the weather will permit.

JOHN ROBESON, G. W. ARTHURS, B. F. CUSTER, JOHN W. COLYER, D. A. MILLER, CHRISTIAN RUTH.

A general discussion was engaged in by the members on the subject of nominations for councilmen, and the unanimous sentiment of the members as expressed was that unless the two political parties made satisfactory nominations at an early day the committee would select candidates of their own choice. The committee then adjourned to meet on next Tuesday evening to hear reports from the several ward committees as to the different candidates mentioned for councilmen.

COUNCIL MEETING.
The Different Departments Present their Bills and Reports, etc.

The first regular meeting of city council for the month of January was held Monday evening, the following members being present: Messrs. F. M. Davis, Fagan, Fields, Geesey, Griffith, Hardman, Keifer, Miller, Molloy, Robertson, Turner, Hughes, Joseph Davis, president. After the calling of the roll the secretary read the minutes of the last regular and special meetings, and they were on motion approved.

The chair called for the presentation of bills by the different departments. Mr. Turner for the department of finance sent up the city solicitor's opinion that Mr. S. F. Wilson was entitled to a rebate on license paid for 1883. On motion of Mr. Turner an order for the amount of rebate was granted.

The department of water presented the following bills: Superintendent of water's pay roll, $195.30; Barclay Bros., printing, $3.50; same, $10.75; First National bank, interest on $3,000 unpaid balance, $15; Vigilant fire company, hauling, $575; Campbell Bros., contractors to gross amount of work, $1,775.84; percentage, $177.58; total, $1,953 42. Orders were granted for the amount of the bills read on motion of Mr. Kiefer.

The department of police and city property sent up the following bills: Aaron Thomas, livery hire for council committee to poor house, $4.50: Logan township school tax against city, $6.75; gas in council chamber for November, $17.82; city lamps for November, $133.50; lighting same, $40; mayor's pay roll - mayor's salary, $70; meals for prisoners; $8.85; stationary, $1.35; chief of police, salary, $60; salary of four night policemen, $200. Mr. Turner moved that orders be granted for the amounts stated.

The department on highways and sewers sent in the following bills: J. A. Wilson & Son, masonry, $11.70; Mr. H. Mackey, lumber, $58.31; Union planing mill company, lumber and hauling, $51.71; Altoona hardware company, drain boxes, $15.52; street commissioner's pay roll, labor $220.71; hauling, $67.60; total, $288.31; George Crawford, blacksmithing, $20.20. Mr. Hardman moved that the bills be approved and orders granted for the same. The chair announced that the appropriation for this department was exhausted, and that he would refuse to sign the bills under these circumstances. Mr. Hardman stated that he was preparing a resolution to cover the case. The bills were on motion approved.

The department on surveys sent in these bills: City solicitor's salary, $70; Hugh O'Niel, assistant, $1.87. Mr. F. M. Davis thought it looked bad to be paying the city engineer when he was not employed. Mr. Fields thought it was all right to pay him. He was hired by the month, and is badly needed through the summer. The only way out of the trouble would be to suspend him. Mr. Molloy thought it wrong to pay officers for work not performed. He believed that the engineer and street commissioner could be dispensed with for a few months, though he did not wish to be understood as objecting to the bills. The bills were, on motion, approved and orders granted for the same.

The department of fire reported the following bills: Pennsylvania railroad company, material furnished, $1.90; Vigilant appropriation for December, $60; Empire hook and ladder appropriation for November and December, $80; Good Will appropriation for November and December, $120. The bills were on motion approved and orders granted for the same.

The finance committee reported that they had examined the accounts and vouchers of J. G. Herbst, collector of city water and improvement taxes in the First, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh wards, for the year 1882 and recommended a settlement according to a statement offered which showed Mr. Herbst indebted to the amount of $2,032.58. On Mr. Hardman's motion the report was received and the recommendations endorsed.

The city recorder presented his report of fines received. On Mr. Hardman's motion the report was received and filed.

The same committee presented a communication for the First National bank calling attention to the fact that $5,000 was just due the bank. Referred to the finance department.

The department of police and city property sent in the mayor's report of fines, etc., received during the month, the total being $60.20. Received and filed. The same department offered a resolution transferring $2 from the small pox appropriation item to the coal appropriation item, for the reason that the latter is exhausted. On Mr. Griffith's motion the report was received and the resolution adopted.

The department on highways and sewers reported the statement of work done by the street commissioner in the different wards, and the report was received and filed.

The survey department presented the report of the city engineer of work done during the month of December. On Mr. Miller's motion it was received and filed.

The department of city solicitor was read and on motion of Mr. F. Davis was placed on file.

The city treasurer's department presented the report of the city treasurer, showing that $811.48 had been received from all sources during the month of December. The report was received and filed. The same department presented the report of Tax Collector Herbst showing that $2,491.45 had been collected during the last month. The report was received and filed.

A. Ake, tax collector, reported having received $300 during December. Report received and filed.

A resolution signed by Mr. S. M. Griffith, secretary of the highway committee, asking for the suspension of the street commissioner owing to the fact that the appropriation for that department had run out was read. Mr. Griffith denied that he signed the resolution, pronouncing the signature a forgery.

Mr. Miller, the chairman of the department, claimed the right of attaching the name of the secretary to papers emanating from the committee, and defended the proposition contained in the resolution. The chair ruled it out, owing to the fact that the member whose name was attached disclaimed it.

Mr. Hardman offered the following resolution:

Whereas, As many of the items in the appropriations of the several departments are exhausted; therefore, be it

Resolved, that the secretary of council be and is hereby authorized to furnish the chairman of finance with such amounts as can be transferred from one department to another for the purpose of paying necessary expenses.

On Mr. Davis' motion the resolution was adopted.

Mr. Hardman introduced another resolution instructing the street commissioner to employ no more laborers than he can possibly help, nor order more material that he finds actually necessary.

Mr. Molloy saw no necessity to have more men or get more material now. The force is already reduced to two laborers, whose duties are to keep inlets open. That was the reason he had suggested dispensing with the street commissioner, one man on each side of the city being in his opinion sufficient to do the work. Mr. Hardman withdrew his resolution.

The department of city treasurer handed in the proposals of W. H. Harnman and W. A. Fraser, for the painting of tin tags for huckster wagons, the former asking ten cents each and the latter twelve cents. On motion of F. M. Davis the contract was awarded to the latter.

From Eldorado.

Eds. TRIBUNE: Allow me the privilege of a few items of interest from this place. Our literary society has been in progress during the winter, not as interesting as we would desire, yet we hope is doing some good. Almost all of our people were interested in Christmas trees and Christmas treats at their different churches on Christmas, therefore our Christmas tree and treat was deferred until last night. A very happy and pleasant meeting was this and the thanks of the little ones as well as the older ones are due to the efforts of the committee, M. W. Black, esq., W. B. Riling, Elmer E. Yon and William Shultz.

Dr. J. W. Isenberg, the particular friend of the infant class, gave them a brief address. The doctor expects to leave this community shortly and should carry with him the good wishes of all. That he has been the mainstay of our Sunday school no one will gainsay. He has been the one who always looked after the welfare of the whole school, whilst it was his special object to see that the infant class had the preference in all things. He will not soon be forgotten by them. He leaves the class in good hands for the present and we have every hope that it and the whole school will continue to flourish. - FRIEND, ELDORADO, January 2, 1884.

Altoona Tribune, Altoona, Pa., Thursday, January 10, 1884, page 2

CITY AND COUNTRY

Mrs. Clara E. Heller died Tuesday evening, aged 35 years and 9 months.

Paul Rhodes, of Piney Creek has sold his farm to John Smith, of the same place. Consideration, $6,500.

Monday last the burgess of Johnstown fined Hon. D. J. Morrell one dollar and costs for neglecting to remove the snow from the sidewalk at his residence.

Dr. J. W. Isenberg, one of Blair county's best citizens, will soon become a citizen of Delaware. It is a pity that so good a man should settle in so insignificant a state.

William M. Lloyd, jr., formerly of this city, but more recently of Jamestown, Dakota Territory, accompanied by his wife, is making a visit to relatives and friends in this city.

An 18-year-old young man named McDonald, while engaged in cutting timber in Knox township, Clearfield county, was struck across the back by a falling tree and thrown violently to the ground. His right thigh was broken and he was otherwise badly injured.

The Silver Grays, at their meeting Tuesday afternoon, elected the following officers to serve during the ensuing year: President, George S. Eby, re-elected; vice president, Allen McGlathery, re-elected secretary, E. Fettinger, re-elected; treasurer, John Wesley, in place of John Miller, deceased.

Mrs. Jennie Krise, of Dean township, Cambria county, died on Sunday evening last about 9 o'clock. She was afflicted with dropsy and heart disease. Besides leaving a husband to mourn her loss she leaves a father, three sisters and a brother, Mr. Edward Nagle, of this city. The funeral took place on Tuesday, and was largely attended.

UNDER THE WHEELS.
Yard Brakeman John M. Berkheimer Run Over and Crushed to Death.

John M. Berkheimer, an extra brakeman in the Altoona railroad yard, was run over by an engine and instantly killed Friday morning about half-past 8 o'clock, at a point nearly opposite Sixteenth street. Berkheimer was employed in the yard some three years ago, but quit to accept employment in the lower shops. Preferring the railroad he sought employment in that department again, and began work in the yard on the 4th of last month, as extra brakeman. Yesterday morning he was attached to Conductor Lathero's crew, of which William B. Stahl is engineer. At the time stated the crew was taking a train of freight cars to the upper end of the yard, when the last three became detached or were cut off. Berkheimer, who was riding on the engine, got off to see what was wrong, and was standing in the middle of the next track looking down the yard, when he was struck and knocked down by the tender of engine 348, which was being backed down to the station to couple on to Conductor Dent's Hollidaysburg branch train. The engineer of 348, Mr. David Arthur, saw the unfortunate man just as he was hit and quickly stopped the engine, but Berkheimer had already been crushed by the wheels of the tender and the brake rigging, and when taken out was dead. Both legs were broken, both arms were broken, his entrails were protruding from a terrible cut in the abdomen, and his neck was broken. Those accustomed to such sights could scarcely approach the mangled remains. Samuel Berkheimer, a brother of the victim, and a member of Conductor Lathero's crew, while not an eye witness of the accident, was one of the first on the spot, and his grief can be better imagined than described. The remains were taken to Tipton's undertaking establishment, here they were allowed to remain undisturbed until Coroner Mitchell arrived and held an inquest, the jury being composed of M. B. McGrath, W. H. Glenn, David Tipton, John Baker, W. L. Fissel and James Reed. Conductor Lathero, Engineer Stahl and Brakeman Stahl were examined and gave the facts substantially as stated above. The jury rendered a verdict "that his death was caused by being run over by engine No. 348 in the Pennsylvania railroad company's yard at Sixteenth street. Death was accidental, no blame being attached to any person."

John Berkheimer, had he lived, would have been 23 years of age the 24th day of this month. He was a steady, industrious young man and well thought of by all his acquaintances. He leaves a wife and child to mourn his sad death, together with his aged parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Berkheimer, who reside north of Miller's blacksmith shop.

Death of Mrs. George Miller.

At 6 o'clock Friday evening Mr. George Miller, a well-known middle division engineer, died at his residence, on Third avenue near Twelfth street, from typhoid fever, with which he had been ill some two weeks. He was aged 31 years, 9 months and 22 days. Mr. Miller was an honored member of Logan lodge No.490, Ancient __rk Masons, and wherever known was held in the highest esteem. His high character and excellent social qualities were especially appreciated by railroad men with whom he was intimately associated. He leaves a wife and two young children.

Mr. E. R. Curtis Elected President of the Inter-state Association.

The representatives to the inter-state base ball association met in Philadelphia yesterday for the purpose of making rules and agreeing upon a plan of operation for the year of 1884. Everything passed off harmoniously. Mr. E. R. Curtis, the representative of the Altoona association, was elected president. We can congratulate Mr. Curtis on this recognition of his gentlemanly qualification and the association on getting such a devoted friend of the game to be president. The Altoona club is highly ___ by the distinction conferred on ___ representative.

The Dental Association.

The semi-annual meeting of the Central Pennsylvania Dental association met on Tuesday in Jonestown, as previously announced, at the office of Dr. J. P. Thompson. Drs. Stewart and Heighhold, of Clearfield; Dr. Hamilton, of Tyrone; Dr. Bobb, of Huntingdon, and Dr. Miller, of Altoona, were present. Dr. Yoder, of Huntingdon; Dr. Guss, of Houtzdale, and Dr. Poland, of Johnstown, were present as visiting dentists. The society convened shortly after 10 a. m., and the forenoon was occupied with the general business of the association. Dr. Thompson presided. The secretary, Dr. Leisinger, of Bellefonte, being absent, Dr. Heighhold was elected secretary pro tem. At half past 1 o'clock the afternoon session was called to order. Dr. Stewart read a brief but practical essay on "Artificial Crowns." "The Therapeutical uses of Iodoform" was the theme of Dr. Miller's essay. Both papers were full of interest to the dental profession, and were discussed at length by the gentlemen present. During these practical and animated debates many incidents of office practice were given, inquiries were answered, and a general interchange of opinions and methods of treatment of the various diseases of the mouth were rendered, which were not only of practical importance to the profession, but which will, in the end, be for the personal benefit of the patients of the dentists present.

The regular annual meeting of the association will be held at Tyrone in the latter part of July next.

A Romance of the War.

In 1861 Henry Hixon, then quite a young boy, left his father's home in Brush Creek, Fulton county, without saying as much as good bye, and tramped to Everett, Bedford county, where he enlisted for three years in a company organized at that place. He was wounded and captured at Gettysburg, and remained a prisoner until the war ended, when he returned to Gapsville, Bedford county, and started a store. In 1867 he went west. After this the parents never learned anything concerning his whereabouts, though they thought they had exhausted all means of finding him. Recently, the father, knowing that his lost son had been wounded three times, conceived the idea of inquiring about him to the commissioner of pensions. An answer was soon received stating that Henry's name was on the roll of the Philadelphia agency, the street and number of his residence being also given. The father visited Philadelphia on Wednesday of last week, and found his long lost son. Henry did not recognize the old gentleman, having believed that he was dead, and it required the testimony of a mutual friend to convince him. The meeting as may be readily imagined was a joyous one for both, and when Henry visits his old home the fatted calf will be killed.

Some True Words.

Monday Hon. John Dean retired from the office of president judge of Cambria county, Hon. R. L. Johnston becoming his successor. In noticing this important event the Johnstown Tribune says:

"We are sorry to lose Judge Dean. His high attainments and great honors, both physical and mental, have enabled him to do more work in the three counties which composed his district than any other common pleas judge in the commonwealth, and to do it acceptably. No suitor can complain of unfairness, and the members of the bar have been invariably treated with the finest courtesy. In the judicial office a learning is indispensable, but it is of less importance than character. The character of the judge touches and permeates the administration of the laws. He can uphold or degrade the morals of a community, and if noble he can stamp much of his nobility upon the functions of his court. Judge Dean has not only worthily upheld the authority of the commonwealth, observed equity, and made the law a terror to evil-doers, but he has done more than this in holding up a high standard of moral excellence."

The people of Blair county are to be congratulated upon the fact that they are henceforth to have the undivided services of Judge Dean. What the Johnstown Tribune just says he has been in Cambria county he will continue to be in Blair.

The Altoona Hospital.

Wednesday afternoon a meeting of the trustees of the Altoona hospital was held in the Pennsylvania railroad company's schedule room for the purpose of electing permanent officers of the association to serve the ensuing year. All the trustees were present excepting Messrs. T. N. Ely and G. W. Strattan. J. P. Levan was elected president, and B. F. Custer was elected secretary without opposition. Several ballots were taken for treasurer, the last resulting in the choice of T. H. Wigton, of the Altoona bank. A. J. Riley, esq., explained the law applying to hospitals in a very comprehensive way, and gave information of great value to the board, The president appointed Messrs. S. M. Prevost, B. F. Custer, T. H. Wigton, A. J. Anderson and H. J. Cornman, a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws for the association. The following members were appointed a committee to secure a desirable location: Messrs. Frank Sheppard, S. M. Prevost, B. F. Custer, William Murray and A. J. Anderson. A resolution was passed asking the committees, personally appointed, to collect subscriptions, to finish up their work and report to the officers of the association.

Cupid's Work.

Near Wooster, O., on New Year's day, at 4 p. m., at the Troutman mansion, Blair Wilson, one of Blair county's most exemplary young men, claimed by the laws of cupid the heart and hand of Mr. and Mrs. Troutman's daughter Alice, one of Wayne county's most highly esteemed and accomplished young ladies. In the presence of a large number of relatives and friends Rev. Dr. McCurdy pronounced the impressive service which made them one.

St. John's Society.

The following are the officers elected by the St. John's society to serve for the present term: President, John O'Toole; vice president, Samuel Warner; secretary, J. P. Kelly: assistant secretary, James Kahler; librarians, S. A. Gurley, Charles Grimes; stewards, Miles Moran, John O'Friel and Martin Kelly; trustee, Richard Rowan.

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS.
Some Suggestions Which will be Found Pertinent to the Swearing Off Time.

The present week is "swearing off" time. Whatsoever may be the metaphysical ontology that concentrates social action of an individual nature into specified periods of the year, it is demonstrable that all humanity has a penchant for running in a groove, or occupying a common channel. In proof of this may be offered the swearing off proclivities of the present season. Who has ever heard of "swearing off" in mid-summer, or on the 4th of July? Who of lumbering life with restrictive obligations during the May moving! Or of mortifying the flesh on the 17th of Ireland! It is reserved for the last week of the year, like the fog end of a misspent life, to stir up the lees of morality and attempt to impregnate them with fresh vitality after the fifty one preceding weeks have drawn off all the valuable wine.

The common-place acceptation of "swearing off" is a vow of either total or provisional abstinence from the use of liquor. Or, speaking technically, a letting-up on bug-juice. But vows of sobriety form but a portion of the ramifications of "swearing off" time. The list is too long to cite at length, but among the more popular features may be mentioned smoking, the use of cuss words, payment of debts, loaning umbrellas, contradicting your mother-in-law and keeping a diary. Though it would be quite pertinent to the season and this article to offer some new suggestions in "swearing off," the field has been so well covered that there is a paucity of fresh material. The only thing that suggests itself is the pernicious habit some men have of blowing to their wives about how really bad they are, and trying to make those innocents understand what terrible fellows they must be. Take a newly-married woman and generally always she thinks her husband perfection. And if he is a man of sense he will keep her in that frame of mind up to the call upon his insurance policy, and never let her know what a fraud he is.

Women do not know as much evil as men, and the man who, to gratify a pimpled desire to appear a terrible fellow, enlightens them, is a fool. The inauguration of the majority of the marital infelicity in the world originates with this insane male vanity of shaking a wife's confidence. If the husband is a "full-made" man, his wife will believe in him every time, and it is only by his own deliberate assassination of her confidence that that family terror, jealous- suspicions, enters his home. This is "swearing off" week. Let the "fool husband" swear off lying to his wife. Let him let [her] form her own opinions of him on his merits.

Terms of Borough Officers.

An act was passed by the legislature on June 13, 1883, to the effect that the term of office of every borough officer hereafter elected, whose term of office would under existing laws expire on the first Monday of April, of any year, shall expire on the first Monday of March next preceding said first Monday of April, and the terms of the successors of such borough officers shall begin on the first Monday in March, and shall continue for the period now fixed for the duration thereof by existing laws; and provided further, that the borough auditors shall meet on the second Monday of March of the year one thousand eight hundred and eighty four, and on the second Monday of March of each year thereafter, for the settlement of all accounts by them to be settled, except amounts of the school directors and school treasurer.

Selling Liquor to Minors.

Eds. TRIBUNE: Has a father a right to give orders to a landlord to sell beer and ale to his minor children, telling the landlord that he would stand responsible for them? Will that clear the landlord from the charge of selling to minors? Please let me know through your morning paper. - Respectfully, ONE OF THE SAME AGE.

COMMENT.

The law of this commonwealth explicitly forbids the sale of intoxicants including beer and ale, to minors. The word of a father cannot annul the law. A landlord who furnishes liquor to a minor violates the law and can be arrested and punished unless he honestly believes the minor to be of age. If our correspondent knows of any liquor seller who is furnishing children with ale or beer he should first warn him, and, if he persists, return him.

Joseph Baldrige, Esq.

Our Hollidaysburg correspondent gives some correspondence which has lately passed between Joseph Baldrige, esq., and the commissioners of Blair county. He also pays a deserved compliment to Mr. Baldrige. We are sure that every citizen of the county will agree that there has never been a more competent, careful or faithful public servant than Mr. Baldrige has shown himself to be during many years of service. He will be missed from his accustomed place in the court house, and all will sincerely regret that his health is in so precarious a condition while they heartily hope that he may yet be restored to vigorous health.

Alms House Appointments.

At the meeting of the directors of the poor last week the following appointments were made for the ensuing year: Steward, Philip Young; attorney, D. S. Brumbaugh; physician, Dr. W. C. Roller; for Altoona, Dr. A. S Smith; for Tyrone, Dr. J. M. Smith, for Roaring Spring, Dr. A. S. Stayer; for Freedom, Dr. D. J. Appleby; for Williamsburg, Dr. J. F. Arnold. To furnish drugs for the alms house, P. W. Snyder. To furnish drugs for Altoona, J. Ross Mateer.

New Year at the Y. M. C. A.

Tuesday was indeed a happy day to all who were in any way interested in the reception tendered the young men by the Young Men's Christian association, of this city. Those who called were made to feel that they were welcome, and those to whom the part of entertaining was given were made to feel that they had great reason to rejoice from the manner in which their guests manifested their appreciation. To those of our readers who could not pay the association rooms a visit it will perhaps be of more than ordinary interest to know something of what was done and how. A committee of young men met the guests as they entered the building, showed them through the reading room, made them to feel that they were welcome and also impressed them with the knowledge that they would be glad to see them at the rooms frequently. After spending sufficient time in this room to become familiar with its design and workings they were taken to the parlor, where a committee of young ladies welcomed them. The programme carried out in this room was varied and altogether impromptu, music, instrumental and vocal, being furnished by the members of the committee, recitations, etc. The guests were then taken to the hall, and there made acquainted with the purpose for which it is to be used, such as educational classes, lectures, entertainments, etc., free to all members. An elegant lunch was served in this room, about 500 partaking. State Secretary S. A. Taggart arrived on the noon train and added much to the enjoyment of the occasion. During the afternoon he addressed the young men. The rooms were crowded from 11 o'clock until 5 and many were unable to gain admission owing to the rush. It is estimated that about (1,000) one thousand were entertained. Although the day was the happiest one in the history of the association and we are safe in saying that the association not only added largely to its list of members, but it also gained a host of friends.

The evening entertainment which was arranged for the members, ladies' societies of the association and subscribers was a complete success. The programme was made up from residents of our city, save the address which was to have been delivered by W. H. Schwartz. Circumstances would not admit of his being present, consequently Mr. Taggart was invited and made the address of the evening, which was highly appropriate and enjoyed by all present. It is impossible for us to enter into detail regarding the programme, but will say that the singing of the quartette, the Misses Condon, Messrs. King and Piper bass solo by Rev. N. M. Cornelius, tenor solo by J. R. King, duet by the Misses Condon, was exceedingly well rendered and heartily received and encored by those present, Rev. Cornelius and Mr. King being enthusiastically encored. The readings of Miss Lillie Daily and Mr. J. H. Mallet were excellent, and the audience showed their appreciation in hearty applause. Miss Grace Daily was justly entitled to the hearty applause she received for the manner in which she performed the part assigned her, that of a piano solo. Professor Fasolt was the accompanist of the evening and added to his well-known reputation as a first-class musician. The playing on the guitar by the Lyon brothers was highly enjoyable, as was also that of Professor Askew and Master George Moorehead. The playing of Master Moorehead was one of the features of the evening and he was "brought out" by request, and every one was surprised and delighted at his performance.

The rooms were crowded during the entire evening. Taken all in all the day was a succession of triumphs for the association, and all went home, members and friends, will satisfied with the results. Great credit is due the committee in getting up and successfully carrying out the programme of the day and evening. President A. T. Findley was in charge of the evening's programme, and the look of pleasure, which could easily be seen on his countenance, bespoke the general good feeling which prevailed. Our citizens shall hear of other good things from the association during the winter.

Railroad Gauge to be Changed.

The East Broad Top, at present a narrow gauge railroad extending from Mount Union on the Pennsylvania railroad to Robertsdale, is to be widened to a standard gauge between Mount Union and Orbisonia, and the branch of which is to be made from Orbisonia, Huntingdon county, to Burnt Cabins, Fulton county, is to be of the same gauge so that engines and cars of other roads can be run on it. The present gauge from Orbisonia to Robertsdale is to be retained, and the coal, ore and other freight from the latter place will be transferred at Orbisonia. The work of widening the road will begin at once, the steady increase of the traffic on the road having necessitated the change.

An Agreeable Surprise.

A large number of the members of Christ Reformed church made their pastor, Rev. Dr. Titzel, a donation visit on Monday evening. They took the reverend gentleman and his worthy companion altogether by surprise, but as they left for their use a large amount of articles of various kinds, no offense whatever was given, but a great deal of pleasure. Among the things brought was a fine silk hat for the pastor and a handsome set of dishes for his wife. It is hardly necessary to say that Dr. and Mrs. Titzel highly appreciate the visit and are very thankful for this manifestation of kindness on the part of the members.

Concordia Officers.

At the annual meeting of the Concordia singing society, held Thursday evening, for the purpose of electing officers to serve for the ensuing year, the following gentlemen were elected to fill the respective positions: President, Charles Gern; vice president, Fred. Koeller; secretary, Charles May; treasurer, H. Vetter; musical director, F. Maeder; trustees, H. Wittmer, A. Brede and George Schandelmeier; color bearers, F. Nicola, Christ Gern and George Nicola.

Hymeneal.

On Tuesday evening Mr. P. Masterson and Miss Kate Farrell were married at St. John's Catholic church, Father Briely officiating. Mr. Masterson is a fireman on the western division and a young gentleman who is deserving of the high estimation in which he is held by his friends on the road and elsewhere. His bride is one of Altoona's prettiest and most amiable young ladies, and she has, besides, other happy qualities which are not given to all. We extend our heartiest congratulations.

EXPLOSION OF A STOVE
How a Johnstown Family was Shaken Up Monday Morning.

We condense the following from the Johnstown Tribune: The residence of Mr. Joseph Hinchman, on Somerset street, Johnstown, was the scene of a terrible explosion Monday morning. The kitchen was supplied with a stove to which there was an attachment known as the "water- back."

Yesterday morning the cook, Miss Laura Calderbach, kindled fire in the stove shortly after 6 o'clock. At fifteen minutes of 7 o'clock she was frying potatoes, and was standing between the stove and the western side of the room, Mr. Hinchman, the only other member of the family who had arisen, being also but a short distance from the stove. He had at that moment his doubts about the safety of the water-back, and was just about to make an investigation of it, when a terrific explosion occurred, the stove was blown into atoms, and he and Miss Calderbach were thrown, with great force, into the corner of the room.

The kitchen, which is an ordinary-sized room, presented an appearance that defies description. Pieces of the stove were lying everywhere and sticking in numerous places in the walls and ceilings, and lying upon shelves and chairs. The walls, ceiling and furniture were black with ashes and soot; a sink which stood across the room from the stove, and nearly opposite it, was minus one door and was battered and broken as if an ax had been used upon it; the potatoes which the cook was preparing for breakfast were plastered against the ceiling; the carpet which was fired by cinders from the stove, was covered in places by black ice an inch thick from water used by Mr. Hinchman in extinguishing the flames; the doors and wood work of the room bore numerous evidences of blows from flying fragments of iron; a high-chair, one that has been in the family for generations, and therefore prized as a relic, had one of its legs broken off and back partly detached; the door between the kitchen and dining room was open when the explosion occurred, and pieces of the stove passed through the door way and across the room, striking a window sill and blind, tearing a large rent in the latter and splitting a piece off the former about two feet in length.

Miss Calderbach's left arm was fractured near the elbow, probably by a piece of the stove. Mr. Hinchman did not need the attention of the doctor, although his eyes and face were slightly affected, and the skin was peeled off one of his wrists by a flying piece of iron. How he and Miss Calderbach escaped terrible deaths is inexplicable, the more so as they were both within a few inches of the stove when it exploded.

As to the cause of the explosion, an explanation is scarcely necessary. The water in the pipe above the stove was frozen and when the pipe in the water-back became heated steam was generated, and an explosion followed as an inevitable consequence.

Shortly after the kitchen had been cleared of the rubbish resulting from the accident, the place of the old stove was taken by a new one, but the new one has no water-back. The loss was about $200.

The Weather Prospects.

The cold snap has not departed yet. During the afternoon the thermometer registered fifteen degrees above zero, but during the night it sank to six above. The end has been very nearly reached, and more moderate weather may be expected. The snow still remains and is in excellent condition for sleighing, though only the brave could enjoy it the last few days. With a moderation of the temperature the sport will be unsurpassed by that of any previous season. The snow is packed and slippy, the moon is bright, the horses are fresh and ready, and nothing is wanting to make the next few days a season of festivity. The livery men appreciate this and are preparing for a busy time and great returns.

ANOTHER FATAL ACCIDENT.
Mr. Patrick Doran, an Aged Gentleman, Loses an Arm.

The accident by which John M. Berkheimer lost his life, on Friday morning, in the railroad yard, was quickly followed by another which will undoubtedly prove fatal. It is a common belief among railroad men and others who reside along the road, and it is based upon experience, that such misfortunes never come singly, one serious accident being always followed by a series of accidents. The present case is another verification of that belief. The victim of the accident to which we refer is Patrick Doran, old gentleman aged 77 years, who makes his home with his step-daughter, Mrs. Michael Wyrough, corner of Eighth avenue and Eighteenth street. He was employed in the upper round house, having charge or some direction over the oil tanks in that shop. His duties were light, and though the old gentleman was incapacitated by age and physical infirmities from punctual performance of them, he seldom failed to report for duty when able to do so. On Saturday evening he left home about half-past 6 o'clock, and arrived in the shop yard a quarter of an hour later. He approached the round house by the nearest way, which leads past the trestle work from the round house to the foundry. A few wooden steps ascend the bank to the level of the round house, just alongside of the trestle work. When Mr. Doran had got nearly to the top of the stairs he slipped on the ice, and to save himself from falling he involuntarily threw his right arm across the rail on the trestle. Some cars were being moved there at the time, and the arm was caught and crushed from a point near the shoulder to the hand. His cries for assistance brought a number of round house employes to the scene, and he was taken into the house and afterwards carried to the company physician's office. The company physicians and Dr. Christy, after an examination of his arm and his general condition, concluded that it would be useless to attempt to amputate the arm, as he would surely die during the operation. Although he cannot live with the arm on, the injured man preferred lengthening his life a little while by refusing to have an operation performed. Father Brielly, of St. John's Catholic church, administered the sacraments to him in the physician's office, and about half past 10 o'clock he was removed to Mr. Wyrough's residence where he now is. His brother, Mr. Frank Doran, of Hollidaysburg, arrived in the city on Saturday night in response to a telegram. His only daughter is Mrs. Christ Drumgold, of Third avenue below Ninth street. Yesterday evening the old gentleman was still living but quite feeble. His death is almost inevitable.

Later. - At 1.35 o'clock Monday morning Mr. Doran died. He had been sinking all evening and he slept away peacefully.

Death of Nicholas Schenk.

Mr. Nicholas Schenk, uncle of Mr. John Schenk, of the Brant house, died at his home on the Loretto road, about two miles from Chest Springs, Cambria county, yesterday afternoon. The deceased was a farmer and had resided on the farm where he died for many years. He was aged about 64 years of age, and up until the illness which proved fatal was regarded as a very hearty and strong man. He attended the funeral of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Caroline Schenk, a few months ago. His relatives in this city were notified of his death and will attend the obsequies, which will probably be at Loretto.

Camp No. 12, Sons of Veterans.

Colonel Edwin M. Amies, installing officer for the eastern division of Pennsylvania Sons of Veterans, installed the officers-elect of Camp 12, Friday evening, a large attendance being present. The officers installed for the ensuing term were as follows: Captain, D. B. Yingling; first lieutenant, W. K. Calvert; second lieutenant, Thomas F. Furst; chaplain, John D. Keys; surgeon, D. H. Turnbaugh, outside sentinel, Joseph M. Davis; quarter master sergeant, J. N. Woodburn; C. S., David Hughes; orderly sergeant, Joseph G. Baker; S. of G., W. C. Reem; C. of G., Joseph Kearns. C. G., David Lesher; P. G., Harry Arble.

Married.

DIVELY - MADARA. - January 3, 1884, at the Lutheran parsonage in Martinsburg, by Rev. E. Dutt, Mr. D. F. Dively and Miss Maggie Madara, both of Baker's Summit, Bedford county.

EARLENBAUGH - FISHER. - December 25th, at the Reformed church, Pattonville, Bedford county, by Rev. P. N. Peightel, Mr. Henry B. Earlenbaugh, of Altoona, to Miss Susan B. Fisher, of Pattonville.

FOWLER - WEIGHT. - New Year's day, 1884, by Rev. Dr. Bell, Mr. Lewis Fowler and Miss Clara Weight, all of South Fork.

CORL - LINGENFELTER. - At the Lutheran parsonage in Newry, January 1, 1881 by Rev. J. W. Henderson, Mr. George Corl, of McKee's Gap, and Miss Agnes Lingenfelter, of East Freedom.

MALONE - CROCKER. - On January 1, 1884, at the Lutheran parsonage in Hollidaysburg, by Rev. D. L. Ryder, Mr. Harmon P. Malone and Miss Henrietta Crocker, both of Hollidaysburg, Pa.

DOUGLAS - BRETZ - At the residence of Mr. William Sheller, Sixth avenue, on January 1, 1884, by Rev. J. M. Titzel, D. D., Mr. Charles Douglas and Miss Irene A. Bretz, both of Altoona, Pa.

BLANES - MOORE. - At the Twenty-fourth Street Methodist Episcopal parsonage, on January 1, 1884, by Rev. J. T. Wilson, Mr. Hebron Blanes and Miss Sallie A. Moore, both of Fowler, Centre county, Pa.

SUCKLING - BARR - At the residence of Joseph Barr, on the 31 inst., by the Rev. H. F. King, Mr. Thomas H. Suckling and Miss Bertha Barr, both of Hollidaysburg.

WENDT - HAMMAKER - At the parsonage of St. James' Evangelical Lutheran Church, at 8.30 P. M., on January 4, 1884, by the Rev. H. J. H. Lemcke, Mr. Albert Wendt and Miss Lizzie Hammaker, both this city.

Died.

BROOKS. - January 1, 1884, Walter Clark, infant son of William W. and Hattie E Brooks.

COURT PROCLAMATION. - Whereas, by precept to the Sheriff of Blair county, directed under the hands and seals of the HONORABLE JOHN DEAN, President of the Courts of Common Pleas, Oyer and Terminer and General Jail Delivery of the 24th Judicial District of Pennsylvania, composed of the counties of Huntingdon. Blair and Cambria, and the Honorables Jos. Fichner and Robert Stewart, his associates, Judges of the county of Blair, justices assigned, appointed to hear, try and determine all and every indictment and presentment made or taken for or concerning all crimes, which by the laws of the State are made capital, or felonies of death, and other offences, crimes or misdemeanors, which have been or shall be committed or perpetrated within said county, or all persons who are or shall hereafter be committed for crimes aforesaid I am commanded to make public proclamation throughout my whole bailiwick that a Court of Oyer and Terminer and Quarter Sessions of the Peace will be held at the Court House, in the borough of Hollidaysburg, on the second Monday, (14th day) of January, 1884, and those who will prosecute the said prisoners, be then and there in their proper persons at 10 o'clock A. M., of said day, with their inquisitions, examinations and remembrances, to do those things which to their offices respectively appertain. Dated at Hollidaysburg, the 17th day of Dec., 1883, and in the 107th year of American Independence. Sheriff. - GEORGE FAY, Sheriff's office, Hollidaysburg, December 17, 1883

COURT PROCLAMATION. - Whereas, by precept to the Sheriff of Blair county, directed by the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the county of Blair, I am commanded to make public proclamation throughout my whole bailiwick, that a Court of Common Pleas will be held at the Court House in the borough of Hollidaysburg, in the county of Blair, on the third Monday, (21st day) of January, 1884, for the trial of all issues in said Court, which remain undetermined before the said Judges, when and where all jurors, witnesses and suitors, in the trial of said issues, are requested to attend. Dated at Hollidaysburg, the 29th day of Dec., 1883, and in the 106th year of American Independence. GEORGE FAY, Sheriff. Sheriff's Office, Hollidaysburg, Dec., 26, 1883.

LEGAL NOTICE. -
TERMS of COURT. BLAIR COUNTY, ss:

And now, October 15th, 1883, agreeably to the provisions of the act of __1883, it is ordered that hereafter, the several terms of the courts of common pleas, orphans' court, court of oyer and terminer, general jail delivery and court of quarter sessions of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, shall be begun and holden as follows:

The first term on the
SECOND MONDAY OF JANUARY,
In each year, and continue for three weeks. An adjourned court, for trial of argument list of said January term, shall be held on the third Monday of February in each year.

The second term on the
SECOND MONDAY OF MARCH,
In each year, and continue for two weeks. An adjourned court, for trial of argument list for said March term, shall be held on the first Monday of May in each year.

The third term on the
THIRD MONDAY OF JUNE,
In each year, and continue for one week. An adjourned court, for the trial of argument list for said June term, shall be held on the fourth Monday of August in each year.

The fourth term on the
FIRST MONDAY OF OCTOBER,
In each year, and continue two weeks. An argument court, for trial of argument list for said October term, shall be held the fourth Monday of November in each year.

All of said terms of court and adjourned sitting thereof shall be called at 10 o'clock a. m. of said Mondays.

All venires, summons, subpoenas, rules, citations and other writs and processes shall be made returnable accordingly, unless otherwise specially directed.

JOHN DEAN, President Judge.
CHARLES GEESEY, Prothonotary. Prothonotary's office, Hollidaysburg, December 1, 1883.

Altoona Tribune, Altoona, Pa., Thursday, January 10, 1884, page 3

HOLLIDAYSBURG HAPPENINGS.

The thermometer on Saturday morning in our neighborhood indicated from five to seven degrees below zero.

It is reported that Mr. Jesse Wingate is quite ill and confined to the house. He is in the neighborhood of 80 year of age.

Sexton John McGinnis reports twenty-eight interments in the Presbyterian cemetery for 1883, which is a healthy showing compared with previous years.

Seth R. Campbell and Fred Young have the contract for furnishing beef to the men working at one of the tunnels on the South Pennsylvania railroad. We hope it may be a fat contract.

Monday thirty-seven years ago the first company of soldiers on their way to Mexico passed through our town. They came from Danville and were commanded by Captain (afterward Major) Brindle, of Columbia County.

The interesting ceremony of turning over the cash and the keys by the outgoing and the incoming treasurer took place in the commissioner's office Monday morning. Mr. J. C. Akers proved himself to be a capable, faithful and obliging officer, and goes out of office leaving a clean and clear record behind him.

Philip Young, son of Mr. Curtis Young, was elected steward of the alms house on the 99th ballot. Everybody in these parts knows Philip and the general verdict is that although the board was a long time about it it made a wise choice. Considering that there [were] twenty- three applicants and about 99 ballots Mr. Young is to be congratulated.

The following official corps of officers were elected to serve the Baptist Sunday school during the year: Superintendent, H. M. Baldrige; assistant superintendent, Professor B. F. Pinkerton; secretary and treasurer, C. D. Bowers; librarian, Harry McFarland; assistant librarian, Miss Mary Dannals. The school is reported as being in a successful and prosperous condition.

Dr. H. Hale Brotherline departed Friday evening for Curwensville, with the intention of practicing his profession there. Our best wishes go with our bright young physician. The citizens of Curwensville will find in Dr. Brotherline a thoroughly educated gentleman and possessing many accomplishments. He graduated with honors at Jefferson medical college and is in every way qualified to practice his profession.

James Jones, late of company M, Sixty-second regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers infantry, begins the new year with a light and happy heart and a soul bubbling over with gratitude to his country. He received as a New Year's gift a pension certificate which entitles him to eighteen dollars a quarter. The arrears amount to $936. The commissioner made no mistake in issuing this certificate, and this statement is made on our own personal knowledge.

We regret to learn that William Fredrick, who is employed at No. 2 furnace, met with an accident on Saturday last which resulted seriously and may cripple him for life. There was a sudden hitch in the hoisting apparatus and the platform which supports the stock barrow dropped about six inches, striking a plank, the one end of which struck Mr. Fredrick in the right side, throwing him to the ground. Upon examination it was found that his entire right side was paralyzed.

The board of county auditors, comprising Catharine township's truest and best democrat, James H. Patterson, Henry C. Lorenz, of Taylor, and Aden Wilson, of Frankstown, with Thomas S. Isett, of Etna, as their efficient clerk, commenced business Monday morning. They expect to be engaged all week at the commissioner's office, when they will adjourn to and resume operations at the almshouse. The board declared their intention to overhaul everything in the most thorough manner.

The bursting of water pipes and the growls and complaints of frozen hydrants are heard in the land. One of the first to rise and explain was the burgess himself, who hastened (an unusual thing for him to do) to the water superintendent, declaring that he would be flooded out if something was not soon done. The superintendent found a regular burst in the burgess' cellar, and the most remarkable part of it was that the spigot was thrown some twenty feet by the explosion. Had this been in the cellar of the lord mayor of London it would all have been blamed on the Fenians and dynamite.

Monday morning the following officers-elect marched boldly and with an unwavering front into the presence of Prothonotary Geesey, who administered to each of them, according to the forms of law, the obligation of their several offices: John G. Lingenfelter, treasurer; James S. Plummer, register and recorder; Josiah D. Hicks, district attorney; John Louden, director of the poor and house of employment, and W. H. Glenn, coroner. J. Lee Plummer was sworn as deputy register and recorder. And so the county is safe for another three years so far as these offices are concerned.

Following is the report of our public schools for December: Whole number of pupils in attendance in December, 450; average attendance, 415; percentage of attendance, 96; number who attended every day, 344; number of merit certificates granted, 38; number of visitors, 44. Certificates for attaining to 100 per cent, in attendance, deportment, recitations and examinations for the entire month were merited by George D. Bechtel of the class of '84, Millie Bunker, Helen Goldman, George T. Jacobs and Gregg Brotherlin of '85, Junie Rohrback, Eliza Pearce and Florence Rohrback of '87. Certificates for holding the first position in all the classes for five consecutive days were merited by Anna McClure, Willie Weil, Martha Pearce, Bessie Smith, Bertha McGraw, Edna White, Sallie Bunker, Stehley Thompson, Sadie Goldman, Minnie Eckard, Clara Schaeffer, Nettie Maus, Lizzie Curry, Hattie Lewis, Frank McCoy, Bessie Geesey, James Malone, Blanche Beamer, John Locke, Willie Caldwell, Jennie Goldman, Eddie Thompson, Rebecca Smith, Joseph Irwin, Harry Rohrback, Maggie Meyers, Edna Russ, Mollie Thompson, Edith Wertz and Madge Smith.

Mrs. Rebecca Barbour died on Monday evening at about 7.30 o'clock. She passed away peacefully and with the happy consciousness and blessed assurance that all was well with her. Her disease, from which she has been a patient sufferer for some time, was cancer of the stomach. Mrs. Barbour was the daughter of Samuel Frampton, esq., and was born on the 23d day of January, 1826. She was the sister of the late Mrs. Joseph Baldrige and Mrs. William F. McFarland, of this place, Mrs. Mary McCord, of Philadelphia, and Mrs. Sarah Strunk, of Lewistown. She was kind and affectionate in her disposition and for a long time was like a mother to Mrs. McFarland and Mrs. Strunk. She was a zealous and truly devoted Christian lady and as such was highly respected by all who knew her and dearly loved by all the members of her own church. She learned to love her Saviour at an early age, and on the 26th of April, 1840, when but 14 years of age, she was baptized and united with the Baptist church of this place, of which she has been up to the moment of her death a truly consistent and useful member. For about twenty-five years she was a leader of the choir, and even before the congregation had a choir she was depended upon to raise the tunes. She was a woman of unusually high and noble Christian qualities and took great pride in her church and church affairs, and it seemed to cause her great pain if any one by his or her inconsistent conduct brought reproach upon the church or the cause of Christ. It was always a surprise to those who were nearest to her and knew her best how well she maintained the firm and undaunted fortitude for Christ and the Christian religion under the circumstances with which she was immediately and closely surrounded. Her character and virtues were the more highly esteemed by them on this account and from their standpoint her true Christian graces shone out with genuine refulgence.

We are going to speak of a Hollidaysburg happening of 1799. It is concerning a road (not the Seaboard and Western) which was to cross the Alleghenies, and in which our citizens were very much interested. It would seem from this old document that government contractors were just as much on the "make" in those days as they are now, and even the river and harbor appropriations were gathered in with the same zeal and with as little scruples of conscience as at present. But the honest pioneers were more alert and prompt to call a halt when a steal was suspected than are we of this day. This ancient document, which was written and signed while Washington was still alive, contains the signatures of one hundred and twenty-six of the early settlers of this valley. It is addressed to "Honorable Thomas McKean, governor of Pennsylvania," and is the petition of the subscribers of Bedford and Huntingdon counties. They are going for Dr. Smith, the contractor, who was then a citizen of Huntingdon, and are, to say the least, not very mild in their expressions. We know this paper will interest a large number of your readers, and hence make a few extracts:

"That the country depends chiefly if not wholly on the navigation of the Juniata for conveying their wheat and flour to market, they have to complain that the monies granted for its improvement, have failed of accomplishing the wise and generous purpose of the government. The general opinion of boatmen who have ventured down the river, justify them in suggesting that the channel is in many places worse and in very few better than before any contracts for its improvement were entered into; they are sensible of the evil, but forbear to assign any reason whether the grant was incompetent or the contractors wanted skill or wanted anything else." This was a mild way of saying that they lacked honesty. We quote again:

"That the road here called Dr. Smith's road crossing the Allegheny mountains has never yet been made passable for a wagon, and inasmuch as it is grown up with young timber or bramble and is not nor cannot be even traveled with single horse, it offers a strong presumption that the course over which it was laid out was an improper one. They heard that Dr. Smith is bound by contract to build a bridge across the middle branch of the Juniata which passes by Hollidaysburg, but this bridge has not been made. By the want of it some have lost their lives, others placed in great jeopardy and many very considerable inconveniences are still experienced." Further on they pray that the moneys appropriated for Dr. Smith's road and yet unexpended as with small legislative aid and private subscription "would build a good road over a much shorter route," etc. Among the long list of names we note those of Joseph McCune, who was the father of Hon. Seth R. McCune, to whom we are indebted for this paper; Daniel Moore, who was the father of Jesse Moore, and grandfather of Perry, Silas, Johnston, Elias and Madison Moore and also the grandfather of Maxwell Moore; James Moore, who was the father of Thomas B. and Silas Moore and of Johnston Moore, of Ebensburg, and the grandfather of Mrs. Charlotte Irvine, Mrs. John J. Patterson, Mrs. Ruth Rea and Mrs. Sarah J. Williams, now deceased; William Smith, who was the father of the Hon. Samuel Smith; George Lingafelt, father of John Lingafelt, deceased, and grandfather of James M. Lingafelt; John Linton, who was the grandfather of Lawyer Linton, of Johnstown, and John Cassidy, who was the grandfather of Captain Francis Cassidy, of Newry.

We called to see Mr. Joseph Baldrige a day or two since and found him in good spirits, though much enfeebled. His trouble seems to be weakness, and he is not able, on this account, to leave the house. Mr. Baldrige is perhaps the best known man in Blair county, and his presence at the court house, where he has faithfully served the county in one capacity and another for more than thirty years, will be very much missed. A few days ago brief mention was made, and a fearfully brief mention it was, too, that Mr. Baldrige had resigned his position as clerk to the commissioners, and Mr. J. C. Akers had been appointed in his stead. It was felt by many that this was unsatisfactory, (not the appointment of Mr. Akers, which is regarded as an excellent one but the brief mention which was made of it, and the public now demand to know all about it. Hence it was that we called at the commissioner's office and made application for whatever of correspondence there was in the case. We now have the pleasure of giving it. Following is Mr. Baldrige's letter of resignation:

To the Honorable Board of Commissioners: Owing to continued enfeebled health and no prospect of improvement, I feel it my duty to you and the county to hereby tender my resignation as your clerk, sincerely thanking you for granting the indulgence you have to me for months past, hoping for regaining strength. Our relations have been very pleasant and agreeable. Such is life; pleasant associations have to be broken up some time. I have for twenty-one years past tried to serve the county, as well as I know how, as clerk of the several boards of commissioners during that time, and have always had gentlemen to work for, but none more so than the present honorable board. Now, I can only add that I hope you may each have good health, long life and great prosperity.

Your obedient servant,
JOSEPH BALDRIGE. December 10, 1883.
To James McIntosh, Joshua H. Roller, John S. Calvert, commissioners.

The board took action on the matter on the 17th and caused the following communication to be sent to Mr. Baldridge:

Dear Sir: In reply to your letter of December 10, 1883, tendering your resignation as clerk of the county commissioners, allow us to say that it is with reluctance that we accept your resignation. For twenty-one years you have been clerk to the county commissioners and we are not using words of either idle compliment or fulsome flattery when we say that no county in Pennsylvania had a more faithful officer during these twenty-five years than you. ___ ways at your post, except within the last few months, when sickness disabled you, by your courteous attention to the public, your intelligent and faithful discharge of your duties, you have made a record for yourself of which any one may be proud. During your term of office as clerk the new county jail, involving an expenditure of $100,000, was built, and also the court house, which cost $140,000. No higher compliment can be paid you than to say, as we can truthfully say, that during your term of clerk, through long years of labor, the issuing of $200,000 of bonds and the expenditure of large sums of money in building said jail and court house not a penny was lost through any mistake of yours and the clerical duties of the commissioner's office so honestly and faithfully discharged by you, that never a shadow of suspicion has fallen on their office. In conclusion allow us to again express to you the reluctance with which we part with your services as our clerk and allow us also to extend to you our kindest wishes and hopes for your complete restoration to health and that your life may still be prolonged for many years. But if it is otherwise ordered by an all wise Providence, we feel confident that when you are called on to depart, you can do so with a consciousness that you have faithfully performed life's work and that you have done what you could. Herewith find an order on county treasurer for $200, balance due for salary to December 31, 1883. [Signed] BY THE BOARD. December 17, 1883.

It might have been truthfully added that during the first years of the twenty-one, and toward the close and just after the war, Mr. Baldrige managed, in the most systematic manner, the various funds existing in consequence of the war, and he disbursed and correctly accounted for upwards of $600,000. At the same time he discharged in the most satisfactory manner, as his own election subsequently amply attested, the duties of county treasurer during the administration of David Stitler, and also for Captain John H. Black, who was too badly crippled to be at the office; next for John Clark, whose business interests detained him in your city; and also for the next incumbent, Mr. George Metz. In all these years he gave no bond. He was then, by the spontaneous action of the people, himself elected treasurer. Thus during fifteen of the twenty-one years he did double duty.

TYRONE TOPICS.

They say that East Tyrone is to have a hotel.

This week the gold and silver badges of the Tyrone rifle team are worn by J. M. Henderson and Frank Wallace.

Mr. Charles Mattern returned yesterday from a trip through Ohio, where he had been canvassing for the "Imperial Highway."

At 5 o'clock yesterday morning the blizzard drove the mercury to a point 15 degrees below zero; at 7 o'clock it stood at 10 degrees.

Mr. David Stein, an employe of the planing mill of F. D. Beyer, has been appointed superintendent of the car works of W. H. Vanderbilt at Beechcreek.

The recent cold snap has been the cause of several saw and planing mills in Clearfield closing down on account of the water freezing in dams containing logs.

Wednesday Miriam, a little 4-and-a-half year old daughter of Mr. Fred A. Harris accidentally fell and broke her left arm between the wrist and elbow. Dr. E. H. Morrow was called and reduced the fracture, and another little sufferer is feeling comfortable.

The funeral of Mr. Daniel Delozier, who died suddenly at his home in Sinking Valley at 10 o'clock Friday night, took place at 10 o'clock Monday last. He leaves a wife and several children, some of them grown up, to mourn his sudden, unexpected death. He was 48 years old.

The following named gentlemen were elected to the several offices in the Neptune fire company at their regular meeting on Friday night last: President, Colonel Edward J. Pruner; vice president, Daniel Harris, secretary, Reuben Burley, financial secretary, John D. Lucas; treasurer, William Reed; foreman, H. M. Myers; assistants, Charles Waple and John Henchey; team committee, George W. Harder, John D. Lucas and Joshua Burley. At the same meeting the following gentlemen were recommended to the borough council for the positions of chief and assistants of the fire department: For chief, George W. Harder; first assistant, J. D. Hicks; second assistant, J. F. Riddle; third assistant, William Study; fourth assistant, Adam Estriker. Those named and recommended to council for their confirmation or rejection are without exception men worthy the positions for which they are named, and we but voice the sentiments of the people when we say that Mr. Harder should and of right ought to be the unanimous choice of the entire fire department by and with the consent of council, as that would be but a deserving compliment to a trusted and competent officer, to whose untiring efforts and skillful management is due the present high status maintained by our efficient fire department, second to none in the state.

MARTINSBURG MATTERS.

John A. McFadden, an old resident of this village, is considerably indisposed, being confined to the house.

The thermometer measured seventeen degrees below zero on Monday morning. Good enough for this village.

Dr. Horace Smith and wife, nee Annie Morrow, missionaries, under the Presbyterian board of missions, to China have returned to this place, the home of the latter. The doctor gave an interesting lecture in the Presbyterian church Sunday evening.

The new carriage making shop quite recently erected and occupied by A. Z. Bolger nearly went up in a blaze a few evenings since. Mr. Bolger while working at the bench knocked over and broke a lighted coal oil lamp. The shavings becoming saturated went up in quite a flame, but by presence of mind and good management the bucket brigade put out the fire, saving the building and with very little damage to the stock.

ROARING SPRING RIPPLES.

Peter Kauffman, a son of Michael Kauffman, of this place, engineer for Study & Co., at Huntingdon Furnace, Huntingdon county, Pa., had his foot badly hurt at the engine. He is now at home under the care of Drs. Stayer and Gerber. His foot is badly hurt.

Duncansville Dots.

The people of our town want no license.

Mrs. William Gibson expects to move her family to Bellefonte in the spring.

While you are enjoying the good sleighing, do not forget that a merciful man is merciful to his beast. Much cruelty is practiced by thoughtless and careless people at this season who forget to blanket their horses when standing.

A few days since Mr. Theodore Crowell, shipping clerk at the Portage iron works, came near being fatally burned. He was standing near the bar mill heating furnace and in such a position that a large red-hot pile, which was being conveyed on the telegraph to the rolls, struck him on the thigh. The hot iron burned through his clothing and seared the flesh slightly, but he is now all right.

Our citizens take no stock in the talk that a tavern would help the place. They had a saloon here once before and know what it means. Another thing, Duncansville has never grown so much or been so prosperous every way as during the past year, and all without a whisky shop in her midst, and no man who owns property here will be willing to have a saloon opened here for the purpose of advancing (?) the value of his possessions.

The following information respecting former citizens of this neighborhood may be interesting: Joseph Nugent is in New Mexico, engaged in the stock business; Christ. Musselman is in the same business in Nebraska; his brothers, John and Victor, are in Omaha, in the telephone business, and Henry is in a bank at Fairmont, Nebraska; George C. Smith is living in Rollin, Arizona; Albert Gibbony is in Kansas; Robert Wallace is in Ohio, in the photographic business; Mr. Brook Knox and sister, formerly of Newry, are living in Dakota, and their sister, Mrs. Linger, is at Cherokee, Iowa. Charles Rheinwald is at college at Gettysburg; Samuel Moore and family are living at Williamsburg. A reunion of former residents of Duncansville and Newry would be an interesting event.

Bellwood Notes.

The people of Bellwood and vicinity want no license.

A literary society was organized in the new school house Thursday night. It is something that has been needed for some time. May it live long and prosper.

Cornmesser's hall was formally opened on New Year's evening. Quite a large audience was in attendance and was ably entertained by Revs. Mathers, Forgeus and Kreider.

Altoona Tribune, Altoona, Pa., Thursday, January 10, 1884, page 4