Veterans – Explore Claremore History

A Memorial Day Salute to Claremore’s Heroes

*Looking toward Oakhaven Memorial Gardens from Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Oklahoma*

U.S. flags waving, brass bands playing, guns saluting, parade crowds cheering – these are the sights and sounds of Memorial Day, the day when national patriotic fervor runs high, the day we honor military heroes who gave of their lives to preserve our great country’s freedom.

May 1899, an article in the Claremore Courier explained the origin of Memorial Day which was once also called Decoration Day. “In the early years following the close of the civil war, it became customary for the returned soldiers to gather in the cemeteries and place flags upon the graves of their fallen comrades. This was a patriotic and appropriate remembrance of the heroes of unwritten history, though, naturally, it affected but a limited portion of any community. But this ceremony, followed year after year, in due time was united with the efforts of citizens to show their appreciation of martial bravery. Flowers were introduced, while citizens and soldiers joined in a parade, where flying flags, the fife and the drum, with varied public exercises, made an appeal not alone to sentiment but to the patriotism of all.” [i]

Starting about 1899, with yearly proclamations by Oklahoma governors, May 30^th was the day[ii] chosen to observed the decoration of the graves of the “illustrious dead.” [iii]

The ladies of Claremore’s Ladies’ Cemetery Association, organized Memorial Day observances making “arrangements to properly celebrate Decoration Day,” at Woodlawn Cemetery. All who had loved ones buried at the cemetery were “invited to bring flowers and decorate their graves. A program of singing and speaking was planned. “Judge Jennings, the ministers of our city, and others will deliver addresses. The merchants of the town are requested to close their stores during the afternoon so that all may have an opportunity to attend.”[iv]

Celebrations were held at Claremore’s Woodlawn Cemetery. Those festivities effected by inclement weather were held in the Windsor Opera House after its construction in 1901.[v] In the 1920s, there was a slight change of host.

By the 1920s, the First World War was over (U.S. entered April 6, 1917; Armistice declared November 11, 1918). Quite sadly, several valiant Rogers County men had lost their lives on the battlefields of Europe, to disease raging through training camps, and while serving elsewhere.

In 1920, that Decoration Day in Claremore was observed with a poignant personal sympathy. “Memorial services in honor of our country’s illustrious dead were held at the Baptist Church Sunday afternoon. The day was beautiful and a very fitting one on which to honor fallen heroes and those who have passed on in general. A short band concert was given while the crowd gathered at the church where a short but very greatly appreciated program was carried out. The feature was an address by Rev. Maurice Lindsey, of Nowata, who spoke on, ‘The Doughboy On the Western Front.’ The address was a real treat. Seats in the main aisle of the church were reserved for ex-service men of the Civil, Spanish-American, and world wars, and the cadets from O.M.A. and the Boy Scouts. Services were opened by a beautiful prayer by Rev. Campbell, of Tulsa. The line of march to Woodlawn after the ceremony was as follows: band, American Legion, Spanish War veterans, Civil War veterans, O.M.A. Cadets, Boy Scouts, public. Arrival at the cemetery the procession halted at the grave of the late Lieutenant Commander John Moore Kates and the cadets from O.M. A. fired the salute of three volleys over the tomb, which was decorated with a large American flag and beautiful flowers. Very many other graves were beautifully decorated by loved ones of the departed. The cemetery looked very pretty for the occasion thanks to the careful attention of the sexton.”[vi]

Memorial Day 1921, “The weather man interfered with the Memorial Day ceremonies here Monday. The band had assembled at the city hall and had been joined by the carnival band ready for the beginning of the ceremonies of the day when it began to rain. An attempt was made to hold the services in the revival tent, but the crowd was small and it was decided to postpone the address by H. Jennings until evening at the tent. The band played a few selections and W.R. Holland, on behalf of the Civil War and Spanish War veterans and the American Legion, thanked the Municipal band, and especially the carnival band, for their services after which adjournment was taken until the evening hour. Flags and decorations were floating from the business houses and the residences of the city, showing the spirit of the day, and that all preparation had been made for the proper commemoration of the day. In the evening the band reassembled at the tent and after playing a few selections and blowing ‘Taps,’ Rep. H. Jennings made an eloquent address, although on account of the threatening weather the crowd was small. He paid highest tribute to the memory of those who gave their all at the nation’s call – the gallant heroes of the dead. Had not the weather man interfered, Memorial Day this year in Claremore would have been fittingly observed. Elaborate plans called for an address by Mr. Jennings at the National Bank of Claremore corner at 10 o’clock in the morning, band music and song, after which a big parade of veterans of the wars, Boy Scouts, school children and the public was to wend its way to Woodlawn. At Woodlawn, Rev. Howard Thomison was to have made an address with more music on the program. Afterwards, the salute by the firing squad, Taps, and the decoration of the graves. But the weather man threw his monkey wrench into the machinery and the program had to be called off. It rained from 20 minutes to ten until almost four o’clock. After the rain, however, many went to the cemetery and adorned the graves of loved ones with bright flowers of every kind. But there is no bitter without some sweet. The rain was badly needed by the farmers and the weather man in breaking up the proceedings of the day in a way cast a big bouquet at the living with the fine rain.”[vii]

Claremore’s American Legion Post Number 141 was organized in February 1920[viii] to collaborate with and assist its local veterans. In 1921, a big Poppy Day drive was arranged “under the auspices of the local post of the American Legion.” Artificial paper poppies, sold by the American Legion, were to be worn or exhibited on Memorial Day. The children of war-stricken France would “receive the money resulting from the sale of the flowers.” [ix]

It was this Claremore American Legion, McKinney-Montgomery Post No. 141, that took on the solemn responsibility of organizing the Memorial Day commemoration thereafter.

Memorial Day 1922, paper poppies were sold, once again, by the American Legion. This time, all proceeds of the sales were used by the post “in aiding adjustment of claims of disabled men. The poppies were “sold for a very small sum, in most places for only ten cents,”[x] but supporters were encouraged to make larger contributions to the fundraiser if possible.

This Memorial Day celebration, May 30, 1922, was a magnanimous occasion, as Claremore “paused and did honor to the memory of the dead in a most becoming manner. The McKinney-Montgomery post of the American Legion had full charge of the ceremonies and the post received hearty co-operation from the citizenship of Claremore. It was the most successful Memorial Day exercises ever held in the city and Woodlawn never looked better for the occasion. At 10 o’clock in the morning the large parade formed at the Holland & Reed Mercantile Co., and headed by the colors and band, marched to the cemetery. Upon arrival a space of time was given over to decoration of all graves, both civil and military. Then assembly was had at the grave of Penn Rollen who fell in the world conflict, where the services of the day were carried out with dispatch. H. Tom Kight made the principal address. It was a convincing argument and hope that future world troubles might be settled by arbitration instead of by war so that American mothers might not have to give up their sons in another conflict. County Judge Paul Sutton also spoke from the Legion ritual. Edgar Anderson, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, introduced all of the old veterans of the war present. This was a feature and there were quite a few of them, some of the veterans of the civil war being very feeble but with bared heads, they too, did honor to the soldiers of another day who died that the liberty and the flag for which they fought might still be the choicest possession of the great people of a great nation.

“W.R. Holland opened with prayer, the assemblage sang ‘America,’ and Wilford Boren (son of W.B. Boren) rendered, ‘There’s a Long, Long Trail,’ accompanied by audience on the chorus. The band played several numbers. The firing squad fired a salute across Rollen’s grave and the bugler blew taps.

“The American Legion Post deserves considerable credit for the manner in which the services were handled. There were some seventy-five boys out in uniform and the vast amount of work done by the boys cheerfully and well. Each veteran grave was decorated with flowers and an American flag. The Boy Scouts, the Odd Fellows lodge and the DeMolay boys also rendered good service. The general public turned out en masse. It was the largest Memorial Day crowd in the history of the town.

“The stores of the city closed for the occasion, according to the provisions of Mayor J.M. Davis’s proclamation, between the hours of 9 am and 2 pm, and let it be said right here that the merchants closed. Claremore was air-tight during the ceremonies. The weather was ideal.

“The following is the honor roll for Rogers county, the same including the names of all dead veterans of all past wars who are buried in Woodlawn:

“W.B. Boren[xi]

C apt. Maine [xii]

Mr. McLaughlin

John Thurman – WWI [xiii]

Mr. Reavis[xiv]

Joe Riggs – Civil War – Union [xv]

Mr. Goodwin

Mr. Greaves

Mr. Sisemore – Civil War [xvi]

Major Lipe – Civil War – CSA [xvii]

Mr. Pollett – Civil War

S.H. Robins[xviii]

Mr. Scrimsher – Civil War [xix]

Mr. Lattie [Latta]- Civil War [xx]

Mr. Wilkerson

Isaac Johnson – WWI

D. Kirkpatrick [xxi]

Mr. Bennett

J.D. DeCou

Mr. Coslett[xxii]

Wm. Chambers

James Chambers

Joe Chambers

Bob Hendricks

Daniel Rattlinggourd

A.J. Trail, Sr.[xxiii]

Penn Rollen – WWI [xxiv]

John M. Kates – WWI [xxv]

Ernest Montgomery – WWI [xxvi]

Walter Wood

Eulis Jones[xxvii]

Albert Jones[xxviii]

Dr. J.F. Means – Spanish-American War, WWI [xxix]

Dr. A.N. Lerskov – WWI [xxx]

H.Z. Fowler [xxxi]

W.W. Jackson – WWI [xxxii]

H.H. Woods

(Colored)

Lavelle Jaggers – WWI [xxxiii]

Greene Hamilton.”

[xxxiv]

Rest in peace valiant veterans. May God forever bless you and your families for your sacrifice. May God bless America, land of the free, home of the brave.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Unless otherwise noted, Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[i] Edmundson, W. H. The Claremore Courier. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 1, No. 32, Ed. 1 Friday, May 26, 1899, accessed April 24, 2021.

[ii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 7, No. 15, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 20, 1899, accessed April 24, 2021.

[iii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 28, No. 27, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 3, 1920, accessed March 20, 2021.

[iv] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 9, No. 15, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 25, 1901, accessed September 23, 2020.

[v] Williamson, F. E. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 22, Ed. 1 Friday, June 2, 1905, accessed October 13, 2020.

[vi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 28, No. 27, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 3, 1920, accessed March 20, 2021.

[vii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 24, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 2, 1921, accessed March 20, 2021.

[viii] Claremore Messenger (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 24, No. 37, Ed. 1 Friday, February 13, 1920, accessed March 20, 2021.

[ix] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 23, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 26, 1921, accessed March 20, 2021.

[x] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 15, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 25, 1922, accessed March 20, 2021.

[xi] BOREN, W.B., b. 1843, d. 1909, Location: CP2-5.-L7.-5W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/137419089/william-b-boren

[xii]MAIN, CAPT. WILLIAM H., b. 1 Apr 1850, d. 18 Feb 1917. buried West End Cemetery, Stephensville, Erath County, Texas. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/12744479/william-h.-main

[xiii] THURMAN, JOHN, d. 1921, Location: CP2-1.-L11-3E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/83265802/john-t.-thurman

[xiv] REAVIS, P.P., b. 1839, d. 1913, Location: CP2-4.-L3.-3E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/35287501/preston-patrick-reavis

[xv] RIGGS, JOSEPH, b. 1832, d. 1902, Location: CP2-1.-L9.-6W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/15021684/joseph-s.-riggs

[xvi] SISEMORE, GEORGE, Location: CP2-8.-L13-6W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/37985626/george-washington-sisemore

[xvii] LIPE, DEWITT, b. 1840, d. 1916, Location: CP1-B.-L5.-6E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/9195132/dewitt-clinton-lipe

[xviii] perhaps ROBBINS, SAMUEL, b. 1840, d. 1921, Location: CP1-E.-L1.-4E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33893826/samuel-h.-robbins

[xix] SCHRIMSHER, JOHN, b. 1835, d. 1905, Location: CP2-19-L5.-2W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8479967/john-gunter-schrimsher

[xx] [Mr. Latta ? ] – perhaps LATTA, JAMES, b. 1827, d. 1895, Location: CP2-7.-L4.-5W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8505904/james-eudorous-latta

[xxi] KIRKPATRICK, b. 1848, d. 1920, Location: CP2-8.-L6.-4W1/2 https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/214056583/david-e.-kirkpatrick

[xxii] COSLETT, DAVID, b. 1842, d. 1917, Location: CP1-A.-L2.-2W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/29620886/david-coslett

[xxiii] TRAIL, J.A., d. 1901, Location: CP2-2.-L9.-6W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8504108/j-a-trail

[xxiv] ROLLEN, WILLIAM PENN, b. 1888, d. 1918, Location: CP1-K.-L3.-6W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/52130754/william-penn-rollen

[xxv] KATES, JOHN MOORE, b. 1890, d. 1919, Location: CP2-11-L8.-2E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33998070/john-moore-kates

[xxvi] MONTGOMERY, ERNEST, b. 1894, d. 1918, Location: CP2-3.-L15-3W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33094717/ernest-montgomery

[xxvii] JONES, EULIS, b. 1889, d. 1922, Location: CP2-1.-L11-6E (“brothers” side-by-side) https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28742734/eulis-jones

[xxviii] JONES, ALBERT, b. 1885, d. 1922, Location: CP2-1.-L11-5E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28724999/albert-jones

[xxix] MEANS, J.F., Location: CP2-4.-L10-2E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/197458148/james-foster-means

[xxx] LERSKOV, A.N. (M.D.), b. 1883, d. 1919, Location: CP2-6.-L12-1W https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28882223/a-n-lerskov

[xxxi] FOWLER, HENRY, b. 1842, d. 1913, Location: CP1-D.-L1.-4E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/29648191/henry-z.-fowler

[xxxii] JACKSON, WALTER WOODS, b. 1888, d. 1918, Location: CP1-A.-L3.-2E [MIA Cenotaph] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28754879/walter-woods-jackson

[xxxiii] JAGGERS, LAVELLE, b. 1893, d. 1918, Location: CP2-24-L6.-2E https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28061948/lavelle-jaggers

[xxxiv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 16, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 1, 1922, accessed March 15, 2021.

[Woodlawn Cemetery Veterans’ Honor Roll. All death dates of those listed came before June 1, 1922, the date of this article. Names not bolded or linked were not (as yet) found in vintage Oklahoma newspapers. Names without footnotes are not found in Woodlawn Cemetery records as cemetery records were perhaps destroyed in a fire in the 1950s and only graves with stone markers remain to verify an interred person’s plot. Yet some veterans’ stories were discovered in early Claremore newspapers. Just click the available links to read the stories.]

Almon Martin, Cherokee Civil War Veteran

Almon Martin. Co F 2 Cherokee M & D Rifles CSA 1844 – 1908. (aged 64).

1899 Apr 1 – MAUD, the 10-year-old daughter of MR. & MRS. ALLMON MARTIN, died Wednesday, at their home near here, after a ten week’s illness, of meningitis. The little one has been a patient sufferer, having lingered between life and death for several weeks. The parents and family have the sincere sympathy of all in their sad bereavement. Funeral services were conducted at the City Cemetery Thursday, by Rev. W.H. Shank.^[i]

1908 Apr 17 – Obituary – Almond Martin. Almond Martin, an old-time citizen of the community, died last Tuesday (April 14, 1908) at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, of sciatic rheumatism, after an illness lasting about six months. He was 65 years and 5 months of age, and a Cherokee citizen, well acquainted with all the prominent men who have been prominent in Cherokee history for several decades. He was also a member of Claremore Lodge. The funeral services were conducted from the Baptist church Wednesday at 2:00 o’clock, by Rev. Coe, the pastor. The Claremore Lodge, No. 53, Masonic Lodge, had charge of the funeral, which was conducted according to Masonic rites. A large number of Masons were present. Besides the local lodge there were visiting members as follows: W.H. Rogers, Catale; R.L. Farrar, Talala; J.H. Bartemess, Talala; E.L. Wilmouth Talala; L.A. Carmical, Talala; W.E. Sunday, Oolagah.^[ii]

1908 May 9 – In Memorium. Resolution of Claremore Lodge Number 53, A.F.&A.M. That Whereas, it has pleased the Supreme Architect of the Universe to call from the walks of this life our beloved brother, Allmon Martin. Be it Resolved, that the family of Brother Martin has lost a loving husband and an affectionate father, and the community a good and noble man, and that we extend to the family our heartfelt sympathy and recommend them to the Almighty God whom he served and in whom he placed his trust. Be it further Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be spread upon our records and that a copy be sent to his family and that the same be published in one of the newspapers of our city. E.A. Church, Walter W. Shaw, Guy O. Bayless, Committee.^[iii]

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

^[i] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 7, No. 8, Ed. 1 Saturday, April 1, 1899. Accessed September 15, 2020), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

Maud Dau. of Allmon & Sarah Martin. Birth 1 Feb 1889. Death 29 Mar 1899 (aged 10). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-13-L1-2E. Memorial ID 33350707. Parents Jefferson Almon Martin(1844 – 1908) Sarah Catherine Moore Martin (1855 – 1941).

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33350707/maud-martin Accessed: September 15, 2020.

^[ii]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 13, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, April 17, 1908. Accessed October 25, 2020), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[iii]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 16, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 9, 1908. Accessed October 8, 2020),The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

Jefferson Almon Martin, Sr. Birth 14 Nov 1844. Death 14 April 1908 (aged 63) Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-13-L1.6E. Memorial ID 33349191. Spouse Sarah Catherine Moore Martin (1855 – 1941)

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33349191/jefferson-almon-martin Accessed: October 9, 2020.

Maud Martin – Location: CP2-13-L1.-2E

Jefferson Almon Martin – Location: CP2-13-L1.-6E

Sarah Martin – b. 1855, d. 1941, Location: CP2-13-L1.-5E

http://www.interment.net/data/us/ok/rogers/woodlawn-cemetery-records-ma-mc.htm

George Washington II, African American Civil War Veteran

GEORGE WASHINGTON 2nd, Co G79 Regiment, United States Colored Infantry. (Born circa 1847) (Died) December 18, 1931. Age 84 years. Veteran’s cross.

“Colored Man Falls Dead – George Washington, of the Washington Bath House, Falls Dead at Court House. – Had Lived Here For About Twenty-Five Years. – Was 88 Years Old, Came Here From Vinita; Aged Wife Prostrate With Grief.

“George Washington, a Colored man about 88 years old, fell dead while coming down the steps at the county court house Friday afternoon.

“‘Uncle George,’ as he was familiarly known, came to Claremore from Vinita about 25 years ago and has lived in the south part of the city, three blocks south of the county court house ever since. He conducted a Radium bath house for Colored folks which is known as the ‘Washington Bath House.’

“He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nancy Washington; one son, Jordan Washington, of Independence, Kan., and three grandsons, Clarence Washington, of Coffeyville, Kan., and Harold and one whose name we failed to learn, of Independence.

“When the old man fell, presumably from a heart attack, Dr. Gordon was called and rushed to the scene but found him dead. The aged wife was almost prostrate with grief and insisted that he would revive, as he had done on previous occasions.

“The body was taken in charge by the Kaff – Musgrove funeral home but at time of going to press funeral arrangements had not been announced.” [1]

George Washington Birth 1847. Death 1931 (aged 83-84). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot: CCP2-23-A2.-8. [2]

[1]The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Oklahoma). Friday, December 18, 1931. p. 1. Newspapers.com.

Obituary reposted in The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Oklahoma). Thursday, December 24, 1931. p. 8. Newspapers.com

[2] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28458711/george-washington

Location: CP2-23-A2.-8. http://www.interment.net/data/us/ok/rogers/woodlawn-cemetery-records-w.htm

“H.C. Miller to Nancy Washington, S 1/2 lot 5, blk 148, Claremore.”

“George Washington bathhouse 414 south Missouri.” Rogers County News (Claremore, Oklahoma). Thursday, September 15, 1938. p. 4. Article transcribed from the business section of a 1909-10 directory owned by Mrs. Frances Taylor.

The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Page 8. Saturday, January 9, 1909. Newspapers.com.

“Warranty Deed: Nancy Washington to Gilbert Burgess, 12-23-40. 1.00. Lot 3, and the South one-half of lot 4, in block 148, in the City of Claremore. Gilbert Burgess to Pearl Lawrence, 8-22-41. 300.00. The South 80 ft. of lot 3 of block 148, in the City of Claremore.”

The Claremore Daily Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Page 2. Friday, August 29, 1941. Newspapers.com.

The Passing of Civil War Veteran Henry Z. Fowler

“Aged War Veteran Dies. Henry Z. Fowler died at his home near this city Saturday after a short illness of pneumonia fever and heart trouble at the age of 71. He had lived in the vicinity of Claremore for several years and won the respect and high esteem of all who knew him. He was a courageous, God fearing man ever ready to lend a helping hand to a friend in need and was a shining example to his children, and a loving and devoted father and husband.

“Mr. Fowler was a veteran in the Civil war, having enlisted in Company E. of the 8^th Iowa Infantry and served until the battle of Shiloh, where he was wounded and later given an honorable discharge on account of disability. He was a lifelong Mason, having joined that order at the age of twenty-seven years. He was the father of eight children, seven of whom together with the aged wife survive him. They are: Mrs. L.E. Dimick, Burbank, S. Dak.; Mrs. Augusta Able, Albuquerque, New Mex.; J.R. Fowler, Duncan, Ariz.; Luther S. Fowler, Jefferson, Iowa; Mrs. Chas. Judd, Mena, Ark.; O.K. Fowler, and Mrs. B.C. Wallace of Claremore. All were present except Mrs. Abe., who was unable to arrive before the funeral.

“The funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. Wallace, conducted by Rev. R.W. Dowell. The Mason then took charge and the body was laid to rest in Woodlawn cemetery at 2 o’clock Tuesday afternoon. The bereaved family has the sympathy of the entire community.”^[i]

“Obituary. Died January 24, 1913, at his home five miles northeast of Claremore, Oklahoma. H.Z. Fowler. He was born March 20, 1842, in Licking county, Ohio, making him 71 years, 10 months and 6 days old.

“He enlisted in Co. E. 8^th Iowa Infantry, and served until honorably discharged after being wounded in the battle of Shiloh.

“He joined the Masonic order at the age of 27, and at the time of his death was a member of Dallas lodge No. 128, Mena, Ark. He was married December 15, 1870, at Newton, Iowa, to Mary E. DeVaught, who survives him. To this union were born eight children, Mrs. Florence Dimick, Burbank, South Dakota; Orrin K. Fowler, Claremore, Okla.; Robert E. Fowler, of Chicago, Ill., deceased; Mrs. Agusta Able, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Mrs. Etta Wallace, Claremore, Oklahoma; John R. Fowler, Duncan, Arizona; Luther Fowler, Jefferson, Iowa; Mrs. Ruth Judd, Mena, Arkansas.

“Mr. Fowler was a kind and loving father and a devoted husband. Ever ready to aid the distressed and so lived while on earth that his treasures are laid up in heaven where thieves do not break in or moth doth corrupt.

“Owing to the illness of Mrs. H.Z. Fowler, a short service was held at the home of Mrs. Wallace, a daughter of the deceased, being conducted by R.W. Dowell, after which the Masonic lodge took charge of the remains and interred the same in Woodlawn cemetery with their usual ceremonies.”^[ii]

Henry Z. Fowler. Birth 20 Mar 1842, Ohio. Death 24 Jan 1913 (aged 70), Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. “Henry Z. Fowler. 8 1A. INF.” Plot CP1-D-L1-4E.

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/29648191/henry-z.-fowler

Spouse Mary Ella DeVaughn Fowler. (M. 1871) Birth 30 Mar 1849, Alexandria, Alexandria City, Virginia. Death 2 Mar 1914 (aged 64), Grinnell, Poweshiek County, Iowa. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP1-D-L1-6E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/29667146/mary-ella-fowler

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

^[i] Ross, Ayres K. Rogers County Leader. And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, January 31, 1913, accessed May 19, 2021), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[ii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, January 31, 1913, accessed May 19, 2021), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

The Death of Major Dewitt C. Lipe, Cherokee Statesman and Civil War Veteran

Dewitt Clinton Lipe, from *History of the Cherokee Indians and Their Legends and Folk Lore* by Emmet Starr (p.498)

As Memorial Day arrives at the end of each May, we honor Claremore veterans whose earthly remains lie undisturbed beneath the soil at Woodlawn Cemetery. One of these heroes is Confederate States of America Civil War Veteran Major DeWitt Clinton Lipe. Emmet Starr in his iconic book History of the Cherokee Indians and Their Legends and Folk Lore (p.498) explains, “Handsome, efficient, gracious with the soul of integrity, Mr. Lipe was often called upon to serve his people.” Major Lipe’s service to his country went far beyond his Civil War experience as can be more fully attested to by reading The Claremore Progress story that follows. Rest in Peace wise and gifted veteran.

Mary E & DeWitt Clinton Lipe. Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Oklahoma. Location: CP1-B.-L5.-6E.

Obituary

“Major D.W. Lipe Passes Away. One of the old-time, honored and loved citizens of Rogers county passed away Tuesday night at 12:40 when, following a long period of ill health Major D.W. Lipe died at his home on Fifth and Choctaw. Funeral services were conducted from the family residence Thursday morning at 10 (?) o’clock by Reverend H.M. Gardner, pastor of the First Presbyterian church. Interment was made in Woodlawn.

“Major Lipe was born February 17, 1840. On September 4, 1861, he married Victoria S. Hicks, who died a few years later. Again, on March 1, 1871 he took another wife, Mary E. Archer, who preceded him into the Great Beyond on March 18thh, 1914. Major Lipe was loved by all who knew him and he had a wide acquaintance. In his declining years he was tenderly cared for by members of his family, so that his last days were restful after a most fruitful life.^[1]

“Sketch of Life of Major D.W. Lipe. The following sketch of the life of Major D.W. Lipe, one of Rogers county’s most respected and beloved citizens, who passed away at the family residence in the city Wednesday morning at 1:30, December 5^th, 1916, was found in the leaves of one of the Major’s books after his death. At some date, not known, the Major had recorded various epochs of his useful and fruitful career which were as follows with the exception of the last three paragraphs which were added by Reverend H.M. Gardner, who conducted the funeral services.

“DeWitt C.Lipe was born on Feb. 17, 1840, at a place called Eureka, near Tahlequah, in the Cherokee Nation. He attended the public schools of Cherokee Nation during 1850 and ’51. Two sessions was spent in a College at Cane Hill, Ark. He attended the Cherokee Male Seminary from 1852 until 1854, at which time he was compelled to give up studies on account of failing eyesight, caused by an attack of measles. He began his business as a clerk in his father’s store at Tahlequah. At the age of eighteen years (in 1858) he established a stock ranch on the Verdigris river, where the pump station of this city is now located. He lived on his ranch until the beginning of the Civil war.

“In September 1861, he married Victoria Hicks, a niece of Chief John Ross. Mrs. Lipe died Aug. 24, 1867, leaving one son, John G. Lipe, who passed away May 20, 1913. After the death of his wife, he went to Fort Gibson and engaged in the mercantile business, placing his little son John under care of his grandmother

“The Major was again married on March 1, 1871, to Mary E. Archer, a granddaughter of ex-chief Joseph Vann. To this union three daughters were born, namely, Nannie E., Victoria (Mrs. John Barrett) and Lola V. His last wife died March 1914.

“Major Lipe has always taken an active part in public affairs. In the year of 1874, he was elected to the office of District Clerk of Cooweescoowee district which office he filled for one hear and a half, and in 1877 was elected to the senate, serving two years. And in 1879 was elected Treasurer of Cherokee Nation serving four years. In 1885 was elected to Cherokee Senate, serving one year, resigning to accept place on Citizenship Commission and served in this capacity for one and one-half years. In 1893 was appointed as member of a Commission to Washington to negotiate Cherokee Strip Bonds, and in 1895 was again elected as Treasurer of Cherokee Nation serving four years. When Oklahoma was admitted to Statehood, he was elected County Clerk of Rogers county, serving three years, one and one-half months. Later served as Deputy Clerk for Mr. Jeff Eldridge and Mr. A.D. Lane respectively until failing health forced him to give up duties as a public official.

“Major Lipe professed faith in Christ and united with the First Presbyterian Church of Claremore and has since lived happy in a full faith, until the Master called him from labor to rest, at which time a helpful, successful and eventful life of 76 years, 9 months and 18 days closed. “Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep, From which none ever wake to weep,” can be truthfully said of Mr. Lipe. Heaven’s comforting influences rest richly upon the children, grandchildren and all other relatives, is the sincere desire of all.”^[2]

“Dewitt Clinton Lipe. Birth 17 Feb 1840, Oklahoma. Death 6 Dec 1916 (aged 76), Claremore Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. (Location: CP1-B.-L5.-6E). ‘Served during the Civil War (Confederate States America), Co. G, 1st Cherokee Mounted Volunteers, July 22, 1863; then enlisted as a Private with Co. L, 14th Kansas Vol. Cavalry, USA, where he served as Company Clerk.’” ^[3]

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Spouses:

1. Victoria Susan Hicks Lipe. Birth 19 Mar 1833. Death 24 Aug 1867 (aged 34). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot: CP2-18-L1.-1W. (Daughter of Elijah and Margaret Ross Hicks).^[4]

2. Mary Elizabeth Archer Lipe. Birth 19 Oct 1847, Oklahoma. Death 7 Feb 1914 (aged66), Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot: CP1-B.-L5.-5E.^[5]

Victoria Susan Hicks Lipe. Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Oklahoma. Location: CP2-18-L1.-1W.

Sources:

^[1] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 24, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, December 7, 1916, accessed May 11, 2021, The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[2] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 24, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, December 7, 1916, accessed May 11, 2021, The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[3] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/9195132/dewitt-clinton-lipe Accessed: May 16, 2021. Location: CP1-B.-L5.-6E.

^[4] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8500956/victoria-susan-lipe Accessed: May 16, 2021. Location: CP2-18-L1.-1W

^[5] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28844085/mary-elizabeth-lipe Accessed: May 16, 2021. Location: CP1-B.-L5.-5E.

Pvt. Ernest Montgomery, Claremore WWI Veteran

Pvt. Ernest Montgomery, A.E.F. [American Expeditionary Forces]

Ernest Montgomery, the youngest son of Thomas and Dorcas A. Montgomery, was born August 25, 1894, in Wilson County, Kansas.[i] The last six years of his life were spent near Claremore, Oklahoma.

During his early life in Kansas, Montgomery became a member of the M.E. Church, and when his family moved to Oklahoma, he became a faithful attendant and member of the M.E. denomination at Claremore.[ii]

Montgomery graduated from Claremore’s high school in 1912. The Claremore Messenger advertised, May 17, 1912, “Programme of Claremore Common School Graduation Exercises at Opera House Tonight 8 o’clock… Class Colors: Rose and Pearl Gray. Class Flower: White Rose.” Many of his male classmates, “Leroy Rylander, Waitey Dodson… Linn [Lynn] Riggs… Paul McCain… Virgil Fowler… Ernest Montgomery… Arthur Tommey, Clyde Calloway, Willie Buchanon, Martin Garst, Kenneth Moore, Scott Gibbs,” would go on to make Claremore history.[iii]

The year of his graduation, Montgomery was elected 1^st vice-president of the local Junior Agricultural Club of Rogers County.[iv] “Organize Agricultural Club – Representatives of the local Junior Agricultural club of Rogers county met last week on the call of B.H. Hester and John W. Wilkinson, supervisors of the boys’ and girls’ clubs for the A.&M. college of Stillwater, and perfected an organization at the Claremont school building in Claremore… The following officers were elected: … 1^st vice-president, Ernest Montgomery, Claremore.”[v] In his adult life, Montgomery became a successful farmer by occupation and a breeder of full blood hogs.[vi]

Five years after graduation, the entire world had changed. World War I had been raging across Europe since 1914. In April 1917, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson gave up his neutrality doctrine and the United States declared war on Germany, entering the War to End all Wars.[vii] August 3, 1917, a critical announcement printed in The Claremore Progress demanded, “Examination of Drafted Men will Be Started Next Saturday Morning.” Ernest Montgomery, Claremore, Oklahoma, draft number 707, complied.[viii]

Surprisingly, Montgomery failed the initial physical exam. He had a physical disability. Ernest Montgomery wore glasses![ix] “These Men Will Not Serve – They Are Discharged. All young men of the first call in Rogers county who failed to pass the physical examination for military service under the provisions of the selective draft law, have been issued certificates of discharge by the Rogers county exemption board. Such persons are not further liable for military service, according to Joe Chambers, county registrar. Following is a correct list of the young men who have been issued certificates of discharge on account of physical disabilities…” Ernest Montgomery’s name was on the list.[x]

Loyal to his country, despite this rejection, he served where he could, becoming a ready contributor to the Red Cross and the war funds. [xi]

Six months later, wearing glasses was no longer a cause for active service denial. February 21, 1918, the announcement was made. “These Men Next to Go to Camp Travis, Tex., Following List of Those to Go Compiled by Local Board for Rogers County. To Entrain Here Next Saturday. The Troop Train Due at Frisco Station at 10:50 a.m. – Usual Ceremonies. The following will comprise the squad of 54 draft boys to go to Camp Travis, Texas, from this county next Saturday. They are to leave on a special Frisco troop train due here at 10:50 Saturday morning. The entrainment will be attended by the usual ceremonies. The boys are to report to the local board at 1 p.m., the preceding day, Friday, February 22^nd, at which time they will receive instructions.” Ernest Montgomery, Claremore, made the list. His fate was sealed.[xii]

“Draft Boys Entertain For Camp Travis. The Special Troop Train Due Here at 10:50 a.m., Did Not Arrive Until 11:40. Ceremonies at Council Chambers. Departing Boys Given Candy, Food, Testaments, and Word of Good Advice. Fifty-four Rogers county draft boys entrained for Camp Travis, Texas, here Saturday morning on a special Frisco troop train, due here at 10:50 but the same was behind time and did not leave the local station until 11:40. A large crowd was present at the depot to wish them good-bye and God-speed. Prior to the hour of entrainment, the draft boys were assembled at the city hall in the council chambers where the good-bye ceremonies were held. Rev. Hunter, pastor of the local Baptist church, delivered the farewell address while others so desiring spoke to the boys. The Red Cross had prepared for each boy a large box of candy and a box of foodstuffs while each man to go was presented with a small khaki-covered testament – a gift of the people of Claremore. Friday afternoon at the same place they had been given talks on the soldier insurance bill by Judge W.H. Bassmann and the workings of the Red Cross by Mrs. George Wyvell. Following the ceremonies at the city hall Saturday morning, with the Boy Scouts acting as a military escort, the draft boys again formed in line and marched to the Frisco depot for entrainment. The scene at the depot was an inspiring one and differed little from previous like occasions when other squads went to Camp Travis from this county. The boys were accompanied as far as Tulsa by W.R. Holland, who had charge of them while in the city, and Joe Chambers, chairman of the local exemption board. The following went from this county: …William M. Harris, Claremore… Milton C. Epperson, Claremore… Walter T. Caffey, Claremore… Earl C. Springer, Claremore… Ernest Montgomery, Claremore… Stephen A. Jordan, Claremore… Stephenson Fisher, Claremore… Walter R. Tackett, Claremore… John Alfred Casey, Claremore… Benjamin M. Smith, Claremore… Wm. Porter Thurman, Claremore… Benj. Love Henry, Claremore…”[xiii]

After training at Camp Travis, the latter part of June Pvt. Montgomery and his comrades sailed across the Atlantic for France. Arriving there safely, he sent letters home to his parents. When he wrote his last letter home, he had not yet been in active service.[xiv]

“Another Soldier Boy Letter” was printed in The Claremore Progress, the letter having arrived a month after it was written. “The following letter has been received from France by Mrs. D.A. Montgomery, residing 3 miles north of Claremore, from her son, Ernest Montgomery.

“July 28, 1918. Somewhere in France. Mrs. D.A. Montgomery, Claremore, Oklahoma: Dear Folks at Home,” Pvt. Montgomery began. “I will try and let you know that I am well and having a good time. Hope you are the same. It is trying to rain again today. We had a good shower yesterday, and I had to go thru [sic] some of the thickest brush I ever saw before. While it was raining, I had my raincoat but it didn’t do much good. How is the corn crop making it this year? Are Claude and Leslie going to raise any on Dog Creek this year? This country is sure a fine country to work in. We have not had a real warm day since we came here. Sometimes it gets pretty cold at night. I received a letter from Aunt Matt a few days ago. This is supposed to be a rest day but it seems like we are all busy. Some of the boys are down on the creek washing their clothes, some are cleaning their rifles, and some are writing letters. I got an old French woman to wash my clothes. Well, I guess I will close for this time as there is not very much to write about. Good-bye for this time. Write soon. Pvt. Ernest Montgomery, Co. K. 358 Inft. A.E.F.”[xv] [American Expeditionary Forces]. This was the last Pvt. Montgomery letter printed in the local newspapers.

September 27, 1918, Pvt. Montgomery and his comrades charged into battle. His division, along with others, made a diversionary attack on the heavily fortified German positions of the Hindenburg line near the French city of Pont a Mousson. The intent was to distract and divert German forces away from the actual offensive in the Meuse-Argonne. The diversionary attack was brutal. On the date of that attack, the division experienced its highest casualty total.[xvi]

A month later (November 14, 1918), Private Montgomery’s mother received a telegram from Washington, D.C., bearing the news that her son was dead, killed in action. His mother’s reply, “Ernest was a good boy and prepared to go.” [xvii]

After the news of Pvt. Montgomery’s death, this obituary appreared in The Claremore Progress. “Obituary. Ernest Montgomery, son of Thomas and Dorcas A. Montgomery, was born August 25, 1894, in Wilson county, Kansas, and was killed in action in France, Sept. 27, 1918. Early in life he became a member of the M.E. Church in Kansas, and seven years ago when the family moved to Oklahoma, he became a faithful attendant and member of the same denomination in Claremore. It is with great sorrow the church people, neighbors, and friends learn of his death.

“Ernest was loyal to his country and all deserving needs of mankind, a cheerful contributor to Red Cross and war funds. When the world war called for volunteers, he was anxious to serve his country, was refused for service once on account of wearing glasses, then afterwards accepted into the service.

“February 23, in company with many other Rogers county boys, he departed for Camp Travis, Texas, for military training. The latter part of June he was heard from in N.Y., then sailed for France about June 28^th, and arriving there safely. His parents received encouraging letters from him until about two months ago. Since then, long looked for letters failed to come. When his parents last heard from him, he had been in no active service. On the 14^th of November the telegram came from Washington, D.C., bearing the sad news of his death, ‘in action in France.’ How nice that after reading the message the mother could say, ‘Ernest was a good boy and prepared to go.’ A father and mother, two small nephews who reside with them, and four brothers Ernest leaves to mourn his loss – Claude and Leslie at home, Boyd near Sageeyah and one brother in India.

“Ernest was a farmer by occupation and a breeder of full blood hogs. His crops and stock bear me out in saying he was a most successful young farmer. Could his life have been spared, he would have made any community an ideal citizen.

“Sleep on, ye brave; the shrieking shell. The quaking trench, the startled yell. The fury of the battle hell, Shall wake you not, for all is well – Sleep peacefully, for all is well.

“Memorial services will be held at a near date in honor and memory of this noble life lost in the Supreme Sacrifice for his country. – A Neighbor.”[xviii]

In late December 1918, before Pvt. Montgomery’s body was repatriated, the M.E. Church held a memorial service in his honor. “Fitting Tribute Was Paid the Memory of This Hero at the Methodist Church Sunday. Impressive Program Given. Company L Attended in a Body and Added Military Air to the Gathering.

“A very beautiful and impressive memorial service in honor of Ernest Montgomery, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Montgomery, who was killed in action in France on September 27, was held at the Methodist Church Sunday afternoon.

“The services were attended by the local company of the National Guards which added a touch of military honor by marching to the church in a body under command of its captain and occupying seats reserved for it in the center of the church.

“The pulpit was draped with the colors and upon the wall hung a large service flag containing a blue star for each boy in the service from the church and one golden star for him in whose honor the services were held.

“The simplicity and earnestness of the program added greatly to the impressiveness that will make it long remembered.

“‘Beautiful Isle of Somewhere,’ sung by the choir, was followed by the solo, ‘Face to ‘Face,’ by Miss Beulah Bassmann. The Rev. T.C. Coup offered prayer and Mrs. W.S. Crouch gave the very appropriate poem which has grown out of the incidents and circumstances of the world war, ‘In Flanders’ Field’ and ‘The Answer.’” [xix]

“In Flanders’ fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

In Flanders’ fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders’ fields.”[xx]

“A male quartet sang and Sammy George Feezell dedicated The Golden Star with a recitation. S.B. North read a brief sketch of the life of the deceased and Dr. Caroline Bassmann followed with a personal tribute to his memory. Resolutions from the Sunday School and Church were presented by H.H. Makemson and Captain Kight followed with a brief but fitting tribute to the mothers of soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice. The pastor, Rev. H. Thomison, then preached a short sermon from the text: “He Being Dead, Yet Speaketh,” in which was shown the deathless character and unending influence of good deeds and heroic action. The services closed with a song, ‘Sweet Resting,’ by a male quartet, and the company of National Guards marched out and formed a double line thru [sic] which the congregation passed as they left the church.”[xxi]

As an act of respect, soon after Claremore’s American Legion Post No. 141 was established, it took the name Montgomery-McKinney in honor of Ernest Montgomery and Jim McKinney, two local men who had died in France.

“Claremore Post No. 141 Has Good Meeting. The Claremore Post No. 141 American Legion met in regular session Wednesday night at the Milam Filling Station roof garden. A good number of the ex-service men were present. Business of importance was transacted and two of the main things done was the ordering of all bills outstanding against the Legion paid and the renaming of the post after some of the boys killed in action. Several names were offered to be voted upon, and it was decided to name the post McKinney-Montgomery Post No. 141. These two boys were very well known here in the city. Montgomery having lived here for the past ten or twelve years, his parents residing southeast of town. He was a schoolmate of many of the boys present at the meeting. McKinney, son of Bud McKinney was born in the city of Claremore and was one of the first killed in action. He enlisted in Missouri as he was working there at the time, but he was accredited to Rogers County.”[xxii]

When Pvt. Montgomery’s body was returned to Claremore, a second obituary was posted in his honor in the local newspapers.

“Obituary – Ernest Montgomery was born August 25^th, 1894, in Wilson county, Kansas, and lost his life in the Argonne Forest [see clarification above] front September 27^th, 1918. He was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. T.R. Montgomery, of this city. The last six years of his life were spent near Claremore until his enlistment in the army. He was an exemplary young man, clean in all his habits, quiet, and studious, a member of the Methodist church of this city and devoted attendant at the services of the church. He is survived by his father and mother and four brothers.

“No greater tribute can be given his memory than to say he did what he thought was right. He paid the supreme price in following out his convictions. All honor to the one who in the hour of his young manhood will face death unflinchingly in the cause of right and honor. He is gone but, he, being dead still speakest to us of the worth of true manhood and a splendid upright life.

“‘Upon the hillside, you marched to death,

That Liberty for evermore might live.

And when the ravaged goddess gasped for breath,

You gave her freely all you had to give.

The soil is richer for your lying there;

The air is sweeter for the breath you brought.

Tho’ dim your eyes, yet see you not how fair,

And peaceful flowers wave where you fought.

Sleep on, Oh comrade, yours is the Holy sleep,

And meeting God at last, your journeys cease.

Our task is to travel on and sacred keep

The memories of your ‘bit’ to bring us peace.’” [xxiii]

The Claremore Progress reported, “The body of Ernest Montgomery was laid to rest in Woodlawn cemetery Wednesday afternoon with full military honors. The services first under the auspices of the local post of the American Legion. Services first were held at the City Hall park and afterwards at the grave. The funeral was largely attended, the business houses of Claremore closing for the occasion to show due honor to this dead hero. The local Legion Post is jointly named after Montgomery and Jim McKinney, another local boy who fell in France.”[xxiv]

The Claremore Progress added further details of the memorial in the following week’s newspaper.

“The funeral of Ernest Montgomery was held Wednesday afternoon, October 26^th, with full military honors, the services being conducted by the local Montgomery-McKinney Post Number 141, of the American Legion. The last sad rites for this fallen hero were largely attended. The stores of the city closed for the occasion.

“The basket [casket] draped in the Stars and Stripes was conveyed on a Cassion from the Moore Chapel to the City Hall Park where Howard Thomison, pastor of the Methodist church, preached the funeral sermon. Suitable music was rendered by the choir.

“The line of march was as follows: Band, Colors, Firing Squad, Cassion, Pall Bearers, Post Personnel, Public. Upon arrival at the park the Post members and ex-service men formed a double line and faced each other. The casket was then conveyed to a point in front of the nationally decorated band stand where it reposed during the services.

“From the park the body was bourne to Woodlawn cemetery where Rev. Wm. T. Pugh and Rev. Thomison had charge of the services, which were very impressive. Wm. A. Briscoe, Jr., Post Commander, made a few remarks, then a prayer was offered after which Mrs. Montgomery, the lad’s mother, was presented by Mr. Briscoe with the flag which had draped her boy. Following this Mr. Pugh, Chaplain of the local post spoke a consoling message, after which the firing squad fired three volleys over the grave. Then taps. Howard Thomison concluded the ceremonies with a tribute to the dead hero and consoling words for the bereaved ones.

“The Color Guard was composed of Jesse and Dennis Bushyhead and Lee Bradley, students at the Oklahoma Military Academy. The pall bearers were: Paul Sutton, Aaron Wilson, Wileford Boren, Jack Carnes, Mr. Taylor, Everett Peck while the personnel of the firing squad included the following – John Dale, Bill Miller, Tom Dean, John Hutchinson, Duck Henry, Clem Bibles, Pete Corwin, Jim Caffee, and Font Gott.”[xxv]

As was tradition, resolutions were also posted in the newspaper. “Resolutions of the M.E. Sunday School. WHEREAS, The memories and sacrifices of the late war are brought afresh to our minds, by the return of our soldier dead, Ernest Montgomery, to be laid with loving hands tenderly away, to rest in peace amid the quiet scenes of his boyhood, so far from the mad carnage of war that claimed his life; and,

“WHEREAS, It is with a high appreciation of his manly character, his quiet sincere life, crowned in the end by a heroic death, that we think of him today; a boyish friend, kindly and helpful; a soldier stalwart and courageous answering his country call; a hero, meeting a hero’s death in historic Argonne. Buried for a time in a foreign soil, made forever sacred by the shed blood of every liberty loving nation of the world. Today returned to us, wrapped in his country’s flag and bringing a flood of memories that we do well to ponder lest we too soon forget the sacrifice of those, who like our friend, went out to war and came not back again.

“NOW, Therefore, Be it resolved that we recognize in his manly Christian life and in his heroic soldiers death, the highest achievement possible to the human soul, that we realize with a new understanding of its great truth, the saying that, ‘Not How Long, But How Well; how long we live not years, but action tells.’ What achievement! What glory! What undying service in God’s own Holy worldwide cause, has been wrought by our friend and brother, who has so freely given his life that others might live and be free.

“RESOLVED, That we shall ever cherish and hallow his memory, for the consolation and inspiration that his brief but full life gives to us all; that we extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved parents and other relatives, knowing full well how powerless human sympathy is to heal the wounds of death; and that we can only commend to those in deepest sorrow, for their solace and consolation, the thought already expressed, that service and achievement, and not length of days, are the true measure of life, and measured by this standard, which God himself has set, their loved one has lived the fullest possible measure of life.

“RESOLVED, That a copy of these resolutions be entered on the records of the Sunday School; a copy given to the press, and a copy presented to the parents of our departed friend and brother. H.H. Makemson. W.H. Bassmann. Committee. Claremore, Oklahoma. October 26^th, 1921.”[xxvi]

With this, Pvt. Ernest Montgomery was placed on the Roll of Honor with other brave veterans of past wars who were buried at Woodlawn Cemetery. [xxvii]

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Research assisted with invaluable information shared by John Milam

Sources: Newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[i] Ernest Montgomery. Birth 1894, Kansas. Death 1918 (aged 23-24), Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-3.-L15-3W. Co. K, 358^th Infantry, KIA Sept. 27. Aug. 25, 1894 – Sept. 27, 1918. “Died in the service of his country.” https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33094717/ernest-montgomery Accessed: March 15, 2021.

Father: Thomas R. Montgomery (1856 – 1949) m. 1876. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33095224/thomas-r.-montgomery

Mother: Dorcas A. Montgomery (1858 – 1946) m. 1876. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33094641/dorcas-a.-montgomery

Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[ii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[iii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 24, Ed. 1 Friday, May 17, 1912, accessed March 15, 2021.

Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader. And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 12, Ed. 1 Friday, May 24, 1912, accessed March 15, 2021.

[iv] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader. And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, May 3, 1912, accessed March 15, 2021.

[v] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader. And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, May 3, 1912, accessed March 15, 2021.

[vi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[vii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 25, No. 27, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 2, 1917, accessed March 15, 2021.

[viii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 25, No. 27, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 2, 1917, accessed March 15, 2021.

[ix] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[x] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 25, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 16, 1917, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 4, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 21, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xiii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 5, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021..

[xiv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 32, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 29, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

AEF = American Expeditionary Forces. Established July 5, 1917 in France under the command of Gen. John J. Pershing alongside French, British, Canadian Australian against Germany – summer Battle of Chateau Thierry and Battle of Belleau Wood. En. m. Wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Expiditionary_Forces

[xvi] John Milam as yet unpublished research.

[xvii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xviii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xix] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 2, 1919, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xx] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 26, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 18, 1918, accessed May 22, 2021.

[xxi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 2, 1919, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 41, Ed. 1 Thursday, October 6, 1921, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxiii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 44, Ed. 1 Thursday, October 27, 1921, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxiv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 44, Ed. 1 Thursday, October 27, 1921, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 3, 1921, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxvi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 46, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 10, 1921, accessed March 15, 2021.

[xxvii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 16, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 1, 1922, accessed March 15, 2021.

The Passing of John Schrimsher, Cherokee Nation Statesman and Civil War Veteran

The Honorable John Gunter Schrimsher’s name is appropriately listed on the Claremore Progresses’ Memorial Day celebration veterans’ Honor Roll (Claremore Progress, June 1, 1922). Judge Schrimsher was a man honored and highly esteemed by his fellow citizens. This is evident by his election to the many offices he held in the Cherokee Nation and by the great number of people who mourned his passing and attended his funeral. His story as printed in The Claremore Progress at the time of his death is a lengthy and glorious one.

“Among those from neighboring towns who attended the funeral of Judge Schrimsher last Wednesday were the following relatives and friends: Mrs. Martha Gulager, Tahlequah; Mrs. Charlotte Fields, Webber Falls. Mrs. May Stines, Oolagah. Mrs. Sarah Mayfield and son, Christian, Oolagah. Mrs. Eliza Johnson, Tahlequah. Jas. Hall, Vinita. John P. Drake, Chelsea. W.H.H. Scudder, Chelsea. W.J. Strang, Chelsea. Dave Beck, Chelsea. A.L. McDaniel, Oolagah.

“Another good Man Dead. Judge John Gunter Schrimsher was struck and instantly killed by lighting, at his son, Earnest’s residence, about 8 o’clock Wednesday morning, July 5, 1905. The family had attended the Fourth of July Celebration at Claremore, the day before, and remained overnight. Judge and his brother-in-law Sam Candy, kept house. After breakfast, on Wednesday morning, Judge said he would go up to Earnest’s and do the chores, as he (Earnest) had taken the train that morning with his family, to go down to Arkansas to visit his wife’s sister. Between 9 and 10 o’clock, W.E. Sanders, with the rest of the family, went down home. Candy told them the Judge had gone up to Earnest’s to do the chores but had not returned. Sanders started back to town, while his little son, Gunter, took the team to the pasture. When the little fellow reached the gate near the house, he saw his grandpa lying near the gate dead. The sad news was hurriedly announced and the little boy ran to overtake his father. Upon returning to the body, it was plainly to be seen that lightning had caused his death. His had was torn to flinders and traces of the bold could be seen about his head and on his body. No bones were broken, as was proven by the examination made by Dr. J.C. Bushyhead.

“Judge Schrimsher was born in Guntersville, Alabama, Aug. 19, 1835. He came to the Cherokee Nation when but a small child and spent his boyhood days in and about Tahlequah.

“He was married on Lynch Prairie, Sept. 15, 1859, to Miss Juliette M. Candy. In an early day he moved and settled in Cooweescoowee District, where he has since lived. He was the father of six children: two died while quite young , and his daughter, Kitty, lived to become grown and married W.E. Sanders. In a few years she died, leaving a son, Gunter. He leaves two daughters and a son with a faithful wife to mourn his loss. Many long and lonesome days has this couple spent away back in the infant days of the Cherokee Nation, to raise their children It is a great consolation to the widow and mother to know that their children are grown at this sad hour.

“But few of the Cherokee Nation has a brighter career to bequeath to posterity than did Judge Schrimsher leave us. His political career began in 1861 when he was chosen Deputy Sheriff of his district under John W.T. Spencer. Showing himself worthy of trust and confidence in this position, he with C.V. Rogers served as senator of the Cherokee Confederate State from 1861 to 1865. At the beginning of the Civil War, he enlisted in Co. G., 1^st Cherokee Volunteers, under Colonel Stand Waitie and Captain James Butler. Later he became a Captain in the 1^st Cherokee Mounted Volunteers under Colonel James M. Bell.

“After the war was over and peace was declared, he settled on his farm and became a noted farmer and stock raiser. As the political parties began to come out an agitate the minds of the people, he entered the political field again, and in Aug 1877, he was elected Sheriff of his district, which position he so nobly filled that when the next election came about, August 1879, he was elected to the Senate, where he represented his people in a most faithful manner for two terms or four years. In 1883, he, with Col. L.B. Bell were chosen delegates to the city of Washington, where he and his companion watched the great interest of our beloved Cherokee Nation with all the vigilance possible.

“So well did he acquit himself as the representative of the people while he was in Washington, that when he was presented to them as a candidate for the Senate in 1887, he was again elected to that body. In this position he nobly served his people and country two more terms when he was in Aug. 1893 elected as District Judge. In this important position he showed himself to be an impartial dealer of right and justice. He served as Judge two terms and was again elected to the Senate, which position he held one term. He then retired from the political field, as an humble citizen of the district and country that he had so nobly served many years.

“Judge Schrimsher was one of the charter members of Claremore Lodge, No. 53, A.F. & A.M. As a Mason he was computed as a great leader and a Master.

“Truly, with the loss of such a man, we who know him best must have much to lose. The high esteem in which he was held by the people was beautifully shown when his death was announced. Friends from nearly every place came to his funeral. Such a funeral as his has never been witnessed in our town before. There were over fifty Masons present and all seemed to realize that a great and good man had passed away.

“While hundreds of us attended his burial and witnessed his body consigned to the grave, and we, with sad hearts, wended our way home, thinking that another precious gem had fallen from the necklace of time, we could but say within our hearts: ‘his life will ever live with us, and his great and good example will be a constant meteor, flashing before us to encourage all to be true.

“At the time of his death, Judge Schrimsher was Brigadier General of the United Confederate Veterans of the Cherokee Nation.

“To his many friends and relatives, allow a thought on this line. While he is gone from us, so far [as] this life is concerned, yet let us hope that he had ‘made his peace, calling and election sure with God.’ His life is before us, and we should profit by it. WE should so profit by this great life that if we are stricken down in a moment of time we will be ready to go before the great God of Heaven with a clean record. One thing certain we should learn by this sudden death that we are never secure but are always exposed to that awful end – death. Let us so live that we can have it said of us, the world is better by us having lived in it. A Friend.” [i]

“John Gunter Schrimsher. Birth 17 Aug 1835. Death 5 July 1905 (aged 69), Tiawah, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.” “Civil War Veteran” Spouse Juliette Melvina Candy Schrimsher. Location: CP2-19-L5.-2W.”[ii]

“Juliette Melvina Candy Schrimsher. Birth 7 Aug 1841. Death 7 Dec 1930 (aged 89). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.” Location: CP2-19-L5.-1W.[iii]

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

[i] Williamson, F. E. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, July 7, 1905, accessed May 12, 2021. The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[ii] John Gunter Schrimsher. Birth 17 Aug 1835. Death 5 July 1905 (aged 69), Tiawah, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.” “Civil War Veteran” Spouse Juliette Melvina Candy Schrimsher. Location: CP2-19-L5.-2W. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8479967/john-gunter-schrimsher

[iii] “Juliette Melvina Candy Schrimsher. Birth 7 Aug 1841. Death 7 Dec 1930 (aged 89). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.” Location: CP2-19-L5.-1W. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/22685526/juliette-melvina-schrimsher

Green Hamilton, Claremore African-American Veteran

Green Hamilton

The tombstone of Claremore’s African-American citizen Green Hamilton^[i] cannot be located at Woodlawn Cemetery.^{^[ii]} This is the case with many early Rogers County residents identified by the local newspapers to have been buried at Woodlawn. A fire in the early 1950s is said to have destroyed many of the verifying documents and tombstones made from materials other than stone have deteriorated beyond recognition. There are also broken markers that have lost their inscriptions. Perhaps this is why the final resting place of Greene Hamilton cannot be identified.

The Claremore Messenger affirms that Mr. Hamilton was a trustee of Claremore’s Mount Zion Church.^[iii] He also posted notices in The Messenger that invited citizens to come for baptism. At least one of these occasions in July 1905, occurred “at the Wilkerson ford, Rev J. Hollins officiating. Everybody invited.”^[iv] Rev. T.J. Gaines officiated at the baptism the following October.^[v]

Green Hamilton had grown “two of the finest and largest pumpkins in the territory,” announced The Messenger in September 1906. “They measure three feet across. He is saving them to be exhibited at the Claremore fair.”^[vi] Perhaps he won a blue ribbon at the fair for his gigantic squash.

Not much more information is documented about Green Hamilton, though a short obituary is printed in the May 15, 1919, Claremore Progress giving the dates of his approximate birth (circa 1841-1842) and his death. “Green Hamilton died May 9, 1919, at 10:15 p.m. at his home in Claremore, Oklahoma. He was 77 years old September 15, 1919 [1918?]. He leaves a wife, 3 daughters and 2 sons. His funeral took place at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon from the Colored Baptist church. Interment in Woodlawn cemetery.”^[vii]

Mr. Green was one of the military veterans listed on the 1922 Memorial Day “honor roll for Rogers county,” that included “the names of all dead veterans of all past wars who” were buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.^[viii] Both Mr. and Mrs. Green Hamilton were prominent African-American citizens who had a positive effect upon the Claremore community.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[i] Sometimes spelled Greene.

^[ii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 8, Ed. 1 Friday, April 1, 1910.

^[iii] Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 14, No. 29, Ed. 1 Friday, May 28, 1909.

^[iv] Williamson, F. E. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 28, Ed. 1 Friday, July 14, 1905.

^[v] Williamson, F. E. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 40, Ed. 1 Friday, October 6, 1905.

^[vi] Smith, Clark. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 12, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, September 7, 1906.

^[vii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 27, No. 17, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 15, 1919.

^[viii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 16, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 1, 1922.

Addendum:

“Mrs. Green Hamilton Alcox is Dead. Mrs. Green Hamilton Alcox, and old time resident, of Claremore, died at her home Monday morning at 11:30. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon, October 4th, at the Colored Baptist church, under the direction of the Claremore Undertaking Co.”

The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), p. 8. Thursday, October 1, 1925.

“About 10 o’clock Thursday morning the cabin of Green Hamilton, colored, in the south part of the city was burned to the ground, and a young child, two years old, a grandson of Hamilton was burned to death.”

The Claremore Daily Progress (Claremore, Okla.), p. 4. Friday, October 14, 1932.

The Untimely Passing of Walter Woods Jackson, MIA WWI France

A cenotaph is a monument placed in honor of a person whose earthly remains lie elsewhere. Such is the stone of remembrance that stands in Woodlawn Cemetery in honor of Missing in Action (MIA) World War I Veteran, Walter Woods Jackson. Many of the bodies of those valiant men who served in the “war to end all wars” never returned to their homeland.

Pvt. Jackson’s name is also inscribed with others on a memorial of the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, France. “JACKSON, Walter [M.], Private, 58th Infantry Regiment, 4th Division, U.S. Army, Oklahoma, d. 7-October-1918, Plot: Tablets of the Missing, World War I.”^[i]

Born June 5, 1888, in Effingham, Kansas, Walter earned the destinction of being the only Limestone, Oklahoma, “boy to have gone to join the colors” by October 1917, though there were “others yet to get drafted.”^[ii]

It wasn’t until March 1919, that Pvt. Jackson’s parents received the sad news that their son had, as is etched so permanently into his Woodlawn Cemetery cenotaph, “died in the service of his country, his body resting in a foreign land.”

The news was shared by The Claremore Messenger. “Walter Jackson Dead. Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Jackson of Limestone, received word by letter last week that their son, Walter, was dead in France. The letter was written by the captain of Walter’s company, and it is presumed that his death was from wounds received while in action. Walter Jackson was a fine young man about 25 years of age and loved and respected by all who knew him, and he was a fighter for right even unto death.”^[iii]

The Claremore Progress added, “Another Claremore Boy Dead Over There. Mr. and Mrs. Bill Jackson, of the Limestone district, have received back from France mail sent to their son, Walter Jackson, marked deceased. Also, information has come from Jackson’s captain that Walter is dead.”^[iv]

“Obituary – Walter Woods Jackson, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Jackson was born in Atchinson county, Kan., Oct. 9, 1888. At two years of age he came with his parents to their home near Claremore where he received his education and grew to manhood.

“When the United States entered the world war he left with the second contingent for Camp Travis, sailing for France in May 1918. Four months later he was wounded in action, taken prisoner, and finally reported by the Germans as having died from his wounds.

“Walter, while a vigorous type of manhood, was of a peaceful disposition, loved his home, and had never been away from home, until the call of his country came, when he freely gave his life for the cause. An only son is gone; father, mother, and sister are left to mourn his loss, and another name is added to the honor roll from Rogers county, of the brave souls whom all America honors. – Contributed. ”^[v]

Rest in Peace, Pvt. Jackson. Though you are considered missing in action, your stone of remembrance signifies you were dearly missed and never forgotten.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

^[i] http://www.interment.net/data/france/romagne-sous-montfaucon/meuse-argonne-american-cemetery/records-i-j.htm

^[ii] JACKSON, WALTER WOODS, b. 1888, d. 1918, Location: CP1-A.-L3.-2E

Walter Woods Jackson. Birth 5 June 1888, Effingham, Atchison County, Kansas. Death 1918 (aged 29 – 30). MIA Cenotaph, Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. “Who died in the service of his country, his body resting in a foreign land.” Plot CP1-A-L3-2E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28754879/walter-woods-jackson

Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 25, No. 38, Ed. 1 Thursday, October 18, 1917, accessed May 19, 2021.

^[iii] Claremore Messenger (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 24, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, March 28, 1919, accessed May 19, 2021.

^[iv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 27, No. 10, Ed. 1 Thursday, March 27, 1919, accessed May 19, 2021.

^[v] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 27, No. 25, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 10, 1919, accessed May 21, 2021.

The Untimely Passing of Dr. James Foster Means, Claremore Physician and Veteran

Dr. J.F. Means^[i]

“Dr. J.F. Means Has ‘Gone West.’ Dr. J.F. Means died Tuesday at 2:30 o’clock following an attack of heart trouble. He was stricken at the American Legion meeting at the courthouse Friday night of last week with an acute attack with his heart and from that time on he was at death’s door. It was only a matter of hours until the heart that had beat for 55 years with true American pride should cease its beat and the life of a good man come to an end. His going has saddened the hearts of relatives and a wide circle of friends.

“One hundred percent American every inch a man, Dr. Means was one of Claremore’s best citizens. Altho [sic] along in years he heard his country’s call during the great world war and he was among the first of Rogers county’s physicians to respond. In the training camps, he went through the great Flu epidemic doing his duty day by day in his usual painstaking way. Wherever he went friends were made. He was a man good to meet – a finished physician highly regarded in the medical profession and prized greatly as a friend.

“Dr. Means leaves to mourn his loss a wife and son, Melvin Means. Sympathy is extended the bereaved ones.

“The funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the Presbyterian church. Interment will be made in Woodlawn cemetery. Rev. H.M. Gardner, of Bowling Green, Mo. former pastor of the Presbyterian church here, will preach the funeral sermon. Plans have been laid for a military funeral, the American Legion Posts of Claremore, Chelsea, and Collinsville to conduct it. Dr. Means was a member of the Legion and a faithful worker for its betterment. During the few days’ illness, he was amply repaid for this interest by the attention he was shown by the members of the local legion. A number of the boys were within call at all times. Tears dimmed the eyes of a number when it was learned that he had ‘gone West.’^[ii]

“Lieut. J.F. Means, a veteran of the Spanish-American and the World Wars, in private life a prominent physician and lately appointed County Health officer, is dead at his home in Claremore and will be buried with Military Honors Sunday.”^[iii]

“Dr. J.F. Means Laid to Rest. The funeral of Dr. J.F. Means was held from the Presbyterian church Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by the American Legion Posts of Claremore, Collinsville, Chelsea. Fully 2,500 people attended. The church was inadequate to accommodate the huge throng which came to pay last respects to one of Claremore’s most finished physicians and good citizens.

“It was the first military funeral ever held in Claremore and the first witnessed by many. The ceremonies of the day went off without a single mistake which speaks well for the careful attention given to the many details incident to the occasion.

“The soldiers were formed at the county court house and marched to a position in front of the Sequoyah Hotel where the colors of the different posts were presented to the ex-service men by the color guards. After the colors the procession moved to the late home of the deceased where the body was accepted and escorted to the church. The casket was borne on a cassion drawn by eight well matched horses.

“Upon arrival at the Presbyterian church, Rev. H.M. Gardner, of Louisiana, Mo., delivered a short address while the choir rendered several songs, the casket then being opened and the remains of the late Dr. Means viewed by the many friends.

“The casket was then placed upon the cassion and taken to Woodlawn cemetery for interment. Services at the grave included a short address by Harry Kates, Commander of the Claremore Post, Rev. Clarence Campbell, Chaplain of the Claremore Post, and Rev. E.C. Murray, of the Tulsa Post, who gave the eulogy. The salute was then fired over the grave by the firing squad of the Chelsea and Collinsville posts. Then the [plaintative] and yet beautiful sounds of taps and the ceremonies were at an end. The procession reformed and marched to the county court house for dismissal.

“The following was the line of march to and from the cemetery. Music, Marshal of the Day. Colors. Escort. Casket. Dr. Means’ Horse. Ex-Service Men. Boy Scouts. Clergy. Relatives. Other Friends.

“This occasion was momentous from many viewpoints. Fitting honor was shown one of the county’s best Americans on his way to the last resting place. And the beauty of it was that all was done just as the late doctor would have had it done had he been able to see and know. Perfect order prevailed with a resultant lack of confusion so general with so large an assemblage. This bespoke the experience of those of the service. More than two hundred ex-service men from the three posts participated in the ceremonies of the day.

“James Foster Means was born February 12, 1866 at Frostburg, Penn., and died Tuesday, July 12, 1921. He spent his boyhood days at Frostburg. At 16 years of age, he sailed on a cattle ship as cabin boy to France. The voyage required 65 days. He returned about a year later and attended school, after which he joined the army to help capture Geronimo. Following this he again went back to school and began the study of medicine under his father-in-law, Dr. Sharp of Dayton, Pa. In 1890, he attended the Valparazo College in Indiana. The following year he attended medical school at Cincinnati, Ohio, and the following year he received his medical degree from the Baltimore Medical College.

“He came to the Indian Territory in 1893 and made the run in the opening of the strip. In 1897, he was elected Secretary of the Board of U.S. Examining Surgeons for West Virginia. He held that position until 1904.

“In 1898, he took a Post Graduate course in the New York Medical College.

“In 1901, he was one of the 13 delegates to represent the United States at the British Congress on tuberculosis held in Queen’s Hall, London, England. At that time, he attended the reception given by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress held in Mansion House, London. He remained abroad for several months and took post graduate courses in dermatology surgery and diseases of the eye, ear, throat, and nose. In 1904, he again visited the old country, returning to Oklahoma in 1907.

“Dr. Means sent in his application for service overseas the day after the Unites States declared war on Germany. He received his commission as Lieutenant in the Medical Corps in September 1917, after being transferred to Camp Cody, N.M.

“He developed aortitis while in the service but made no claim for exemption from further service. He was the last medical officer to leave Camp Cody after peace came. In addition to his medical duties while in camp, he was made post exchange officer and later was made morale officer. He was also promoted to a Captaincy.

“On the evening of Friday, July 8^th, while in a meeting of the American Legion at the district court room, he was stricken. He was assisted home by some of the boys and gradually grew worse with each passing hour until the end. He was a good citizen, a good solder, and a kind and loving husband and father. His loss will be deeply felt by both relatives and friends. He is survived by a wife, brother, sister, and son.” ^[iv]

“The funeral of Dr. J.F. Means for Sunday afternoon, July 17^th, at 2 o’clock at the Presbyterian church, was announced and as the deceased was an honored member of the club, the members were urged to attend the services and show their last respects. A floral offering was ordered sent to the Means home and D. Esco Walker, P.W. Holtzendorff, and W.R. Holland were made a committee to prepare suitable resolutions expressing the regret of the club at the loss of this member.” “Card of Thanks. The family of the late Dr. J.F. Means wishes to thank the physicians of Claremore and other cities, the American Legion, the ex-service men, the Clergymen, the Boy Scouts, the other organization and the many friends for their kindly sympathy and deeds of loving service during the sickness and burial of our husband, father, and brother. These kindnesses will ever be cherished – a precious memory. We also wish to express our thanks and appreciations for the many beautiful floral offerings. Mrs. J.F. Means, Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Means. Mrs. Margaret Hickox. Mr. Charles Means.”^[iv]

“Resolutions. Whereas, the Supreme Ruler of the universe has, in His infinite wisdom, seen fit to remove from the walks of men, from our city and community, a prominent physician and valued citizen in the person of Dr. J.F. Means, and

“Whereas, said Dr. Means was a member of the Commercial Club of Claremore, Oklahoma, from which the undersigned committee was appointed;

“Therefore, be it resolved by said Club, that in his death Claremore and community loses one of its best citizens and most competent and self-sacrificing physicians;

“Be it further resolved that the Claremore Commercial Club deplores its loss of a loyal and public-spirited member, and realizing the yet keener loss which must be felt by nearest relatives and friends, does by these tokens desire to express its appreciation of him, and extend to them its sympathy in this our mutual and community bereavement.

“Be it further resolved that a copy of these resolutions be presented to Mrs. J.F. Means and family, a copy submitted to our local newspaper for publication, and a copy filed with the Secretary of the Claremore Commercial Club and spread on the records thereof. Dated at Claremore, Oklahoma, this 15^th day of July, A.D. 1921. P.W. Holtzendorff. D. Esco Walker. W.R. Holland, Committee.”^[v]

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

Dr. James Foster Means. Birth Feb 1866, Frostburg, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. Death 9 July 1921 (aged 55), Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Oklahoma. Spouse Tirza Theresa Sharp Means (1867 – 1935). https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/197458148/james-foster-means

Tirza Theresa Sharp Means. Birth 17 Feb 1869, Dayton, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. Death 1935 (aged 65-66) Claremore Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-4-L10-1E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/34227653/tirza-theresa-means

^[i] MEANS, J.F., Location: CP2-4.-L10-2E

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/197458148/james-foster-means

^[ii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 30, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 14, 1921, accessed May 18, 2021.

^[iii] The Inola News (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, July 15, 1921, accessed May 18, 2021.

^[iv] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 21, 1921, accessed May 18, 2021.

^[v] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 21, 1921, accessed May 18, 2021.

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