FAMILY HISTORY
Charles Emil Johnson was born in the province of
Ostergotland, Sweden on July 24, 1857. It is thought that he was from
the town of Odeshog which is located in the central part of southern
Sweden on the Lake of Vattern, one of the larger lakes in the country.
Ostergotland, "the land of eastern Goths", is a province between two
coasts, as different as an imaginative nature could make them. The
western coast is formed by Lake Vattern, a long, narrow inland sea
around which nestle some of the nation's most treasured natural and
historical sights. The east coast is on the Baltic Sea, comparatively
harsh and unyielding, but just as beautiful in a bolder fashion. Between
are some of the most fertile farmlands and finest estates in the entire
country. (1)
Charles Johnson worked as a farmhand for J. E.
Pettersson, and a "reference" (see Appendix) describes him as willing,
honest and faithful. He was the only one of his family to immigrate to
the United States, arriving in 1880. He settled in Smethport, Pa. after a
short period spent in Jamestown, N.Y. and worked at the Smethport
Extract Works (Acetone Plant in East Smethport) for $1.00/day. Later in
life he worked for Judge J. W. Bouton on West Main Street as a
caretaker. He was a charter member of and very active 4r1 the
Evangelical Lutheran Church (later, Ansgarius Lutheran and Trinity
Lutheran) which was the center of the family's religious and social
life. In 1928 he returned to Sweden for a visit, sailing on the
Gripsholm. At least four souvenirs from this trip remain, shot glasses
from Goteborg, one of which belongs to Howard Hull and the other, to
Michael Hull. Madelaine Johnson has a modern-looking glass and silver
jar and a three-footed copper planter which had been given by Charles to
his daughter, Lena.
Charles Johnson died in Smethport, Pa. on October 3, 1930. Pictures of him show a serious looking man with a large mustache.
Josephine
Ryberg Johnson was born on January 8, 1862 in the province of Halland,
Sweden. This province is on the west coast of Sweden in the southern
part of the country. Her entire family came over to the United States in
1873 with the exception of her eldest brother. In Sweden the family had
been quite well-to-do with a family business and even had household
help. Then the father drank and gambled and lost his money so he decided
to come to American where "he could make a lot of money." Not knowing
anything about farming they weren't successful at it. The farm they
settled on was on the Clermont-Wilcox road, closer to Wilcox.
Josephine Ryberg had three brothers and three sisters.
Friday, December 2, 2016
Carolina Hulda Johnson
Carolina Hulda (Lena) was born on December 1, 1885 and died September 23, 1963. She married J. Alfred Johnson who was born in Halmstad, Sweden in 1883 and immigrated to the US when he was 16 years old. he had changed his name to Johnson from Johansson, as did many of the Swedish immigrants to americanize their names. Lena and Alfred first lived on Rose Hill Avenue; they later built a large house on the first Johnson homestead property and lived there their entire lives. J. Alfred was in the home construction and hardware businesses. Homes he designed and built remain in Smethport. J. Alfred died in 1952 in a car accident. Lena and Alfred had three children.
Bakers in the Newspaper
Smethport March 7, 1929
AUCTION SALE
Friday, March 15, at the residence of Mrs. Otto Baker, 706 Green street, west of Court House, Smethport. The following articles: Kitchen Cabinet, Kitchen Table, 6 Dining Chairs, 1
Large Rocker, 1 Leather Lounge, 1 Parlor Table, 3 Gas Stoves, 1 Smoking Stand, 1 Parlor Clock, 3 Pictures, 1 Rayo Lamp, 2 Simmons Beds Complete, 1 Congoleum Rug 9x12, A lot of
Linoleum, 10 Window Screens, 2 Screen Doors, A quantity of dishes, fruit jars and a lot of other articles too numerous to mention. This is a good lot of furniture and you will be pleased with it Sale at 2:00 o'clock
—MRS. OTTO BAKER, Owner
spend the week-end. . E. W. JONES, Licensed Auctioneer
March 21, 1929
Last Friday Mr. Jones conducted a successful auction of household goods for Mrs. Otto Baker
of Green street.
March 21, 1929
—Mrs. Otto Baker and family, who have resided on Green street, this borough, for several years past, left this week for southern Indiana where they will join Mr. Baker, who is employed there by B. B. Stroud in a gasoline plant. Mr. Stroud formerly operated the Coleville gasoline factory, abandoned a year or so ago, and later was one of the executives of the large refinery at nearby Farmers Valley. He is making a pronounced success of his new venture in Indiana.
Feb 14, 1929
AXEL VANBLAD BUYS MENCER
RESIDENCE—BIG AUCTION SALE
In addition to the Mencer estate goods, Mr. Jones offered for sale a quantity of household effects
for Mrs. Otto Baker of Green street all of which were disposed of.
March 5, 1927
Otto Baker of Smethport requiring tho attention of a physician. The others were only slightly Injured.
The tank car in which the explosion occurred stood at the rear of the refinery.
Coroner H. Clay Heffner was notified and Immediately made an Investigation.
March 13, 1929
Edward Baker of Hammond. Ind., is the guest of his mother, Mrs. Otto Baker.
April 2, 1931
Similar stories about the circling of the plane were told by Edward Baker and his brother Arthur, who were first to reach the wreckage
Heard Two Reports
" I was in the corral on dad's farm," Edward Baker said. "I heard the plane but couldn't see it."
He testified he noticed nothing out of the ordinary at first, but that the engines were "sputtering" when the plane circled back.
'There seemed to be two reports. It might have been backfiring. Then we heard a sound' which may have been the crash."
Baker believed the clouds were not more than 100 feet above the ground.
The youth said he detected the odor of gasoline when he reached the
wreckage but there was no evidence
of an explosion or fire.
April 23, 1930
Mr. a n d Mrs, J . Alfred Johnson spent Easter with their daughter, Mrs. Edward Baker and family in Hammond,
March 13, 1929
Miss Lorena Baker left Saturday for Hammond, Ind., where she will reside in Indiana.
AUCTION SALE
Friday, March 15, at the residence of Mrs. Otto Baker, 706 Green street, west of Court House, Smethport. The following articles: Kitchen Cabinet, Kitchen Table, 6 Dining Chairs, 1
Large Rocker, 1 Leather Lounge, 1 Parlor Table, 3 Gas Stoves, 1 Smoking Stand, 1 Parlor Clock, 3 Pictures, 1 Rayo Lamp, 2 Simmons Beds Complete, 1 Congoleum Rug 9x12, A lot of
Linoleum, 10 Window Screens, 2 Screen Doors, A quantity of dishes, fruit jars and a lot of other articles too numerous to mention. This is a good lot of furniture and you will be pleased with it Sale at 2:00 o'clock
—MRS. OTTO BAKER, Owner
spend the week-end. . E. W. JONES, Licensed Auctioneer
March 21, 1929
Last Friday Mr. Jones conducted a successful auction of household goods for Mrs. Otto Baker
of Green street.
March 21, 1929
—Mrs. Otto Baker and family, who have resided on Green street, this borough, for several years past, left this week for southern Indiana where they will join Mr. Baker, who is employed there by B. B. Stroud in a gasoline plant. Mr. Stroud formerly operated the Coleville gasoline factory, abandoned a year or so ago, and later was one of the executives of the large refinery at nearby Farmers Valley. He is making a pronounced success of his new venture in Indiana.
Feb 14, 1929
AXEL VANBLAD BUYS MENCER
RESIDENCE—BIG AUCTION SALE
In addition to the Mencer estate goods, Mr. Jones offered for sale a quantity of household effects
for Mrs. Otto Baker of Green street all of which were disposed of.
March 5, 1927
Otto Baker of Smethport requiring tho attention of a physician. The others were only slightly Injured.
The tank car in which the explosion occurred stood at the rear of the refinery.
Coroner H. Clay Heffner was notified and Immediately made an Investigation.
March 13, 1929
Edward Baker of Hammond. Ind., is the guest of his mother, Mrs. Otto Baker.
April 2, 1931
Similar stories about the circling of the plane were told by Edward Baker and his brother Arthur, who were first to reach the wreckage
Heard Two Reports
" I was in the corral on dad's farm," Edward Baker said. "I heard the plane but couldn't see it."
He testified he noticed nothing out of the ordinary at first, but that the engines were "sputtering" when the plane circled back.
'There seemed to be two reports. It might have been backfiring. Then we heard a sound' which may have been the crash."
Baker believed the clouds were not more than 100 feet above the ground.
The youth said he detected the odor of gasoline when he reached the
wreckage but there was no evidence
of an explosion or fire.
April 23, 1930
Mr. a n d Mrs, J . Alfred Johnson spent Easter with their daughter, Mrs. Edward Baker and family in Hammond,
March 13, 1929
Miss Lorena Baker left Saturday for Hammond, Ind., where she will reside in Indiana.
Friday, October 14, 2016
Johnson Cemetery
Johnson Tombstones
Charles Emil Johnson 1857-1930
Josephine Ryberg Johnson 1862-1923
John Alfred Johnson 1883-1952
Lena Johnson 1886-1963
Elsa Johnson Baker 1908-1940Saturday, September 10, 2016
Johnson in the Newspaper
May 15, 1919 Mrs. Alfred Johnson and sister, Miss Vera Johnson are Olean shoppers to-
day.
August 7, 1919- Miss Elsa Johnson motored to Port Allegany Wed evening.
Thurs July 15, 1920- Mrs. Chas. Johnson, Mrs. Alfred Johnson and children, Alice, Elsie, and Chas. and Miss Vera Johnson were guests of Mrs. R. Scherer of Port Allegany last Friday.
Thurs Jan 5, 1922- Mrs. Alfred Johnson and daughter, Elsie, were in Buffalo last week, were the latter, who has been in poor health, is receiving treatment from Dr. Gardner. Mrs. Johnson and daughter returned last Friday, going back to Buffalo Monday, where Elsie will undergo an extensive surgical operation. Her condition is reported as extremely serious.
April 19, 1923- Death of Mrs. Chas Johnson
Mrs. Chas Johnson, a highly esteemed Smethport lady, died at her home on East Main Street about 6:30 o'clock Tuesday evening, following a brief illness. Mrs Johnson was stricken with a severe paralytic stroke last Thursday and her condition grew steadily weaker. Mrs. Josephine Johnson was born in Halmstad, Sweden Jun 8th 1862, and came to America in 1873. She had resided in Smethport since 1878. Mrs Johnson was a woman of noble character whose death will be sincerely mourned by all who knew here. In the passing a faithful wife and indulgent mother has been removed from a splendid family circle.
April 26, 1923- Mrs. A.B. Anderson of Wilcox. C.O. Ryberg of Sheffield and Adolph Ryberg of Bradford who were called to Smethport by the death and funeral of their sister Mrs. Chas. Johnson have returned to their homes.
Thurs June 28, 1923- Marriage of Vera Johnson to Robert L. Hull.
June, 16, 1927- Elsa Johnson graduates from High school
June 23, 1927- The members of the senior class Smethport high School... returned last Friday evening from the trip to Washington and other points of interest which consumed the preceding week. All who made the pilgrimage were most enthusiastic over the experience. Those from the class who made the trip...Elsa Johnson.
Thurs, Aug 25, 1927- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, children Elsie and Charles and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hull and son Bobbie were Buffalo visitors over Sunday, making the trip in the Johnson car.
Thurs, Nov. 3, 1927- Recent deliveries of console model radios by Forrest Nourse, local dealer, were to Albert Johnson of Smethport, Don Nelson and Frank Laveline of Derrick City.
Thurs. Dec 8, 1927- Car Accident Miss Elsie Johnson injuries were painful but not serious in nature.
Dec 1, 1927- Miss Elsie Johnson is visiting her sister Miss Alice Johnson in Buffalo this week.
June 21, 1928- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, daughters Alice and Elsa and son Charles spent Sunday at Chautaugua Lake. Miss Alice Johnson who has a position in Buffalo is spending two weeks vacation with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson.
Aug 2, 1928- Miss Elsa entertained the S.L. Club at her home on East Main street Wed Evening. Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson and children Elsa and Charles were Renovo visitors last Sunday.
Oct 4, 1928- Mrs. J Alfred Johnson is entertaining the Lutheran Ladies Aid this afternoon.
Oct 11, 1928- Mr and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, daughter Elsa and son Charles were Buffalo visitors Sunday.
Dec 13, 1928- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, Misses Elsie and Alice Johnson and Chas. Johnson were Olean Shoppers, Saturday.
Feb 21, 1929- Mr and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, Misses Elsie and Alice Johnson and son Charles were Bradford visitors, Saturday evening.
Thurs March 28, 1929- Miss Elsie Johnson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, and Edward Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Baker were united in marriage Thursday, March 21, in Olean. Mr. and Mrs. Baker left immediately following the ceremony for Hammond Ill. were they will make their future home.
Thurs Jan. 19, 1930-A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Edward Baker of Hammond, Ind., Monday January 16th. Mrs. Baker was formerly Miss Elsa Johnson of this place.
Jan. 23, 1930- Born to Mr and Mrs. Edward Baker of Hammond, Ind. a daughter Jan 18. Mrs. Baker was formerly Elsa Johnson of this place.
Aug 8, 1930- Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter Donna Jean were Olean visitors Saturday.
Sept 4, 1930- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson and son, Charles, Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter Donna Jean and Chas. E. Johnson were in Youngsville, Pa. visitors on Sunday. Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter, Donna Jean, returned to their home in Hammond, Ind. on Tuesday after two weeks visit with her parents.
Oct 9, 1930- Charles Emil Johnson died. Chas. Johnson called to the Great Beyond
Charles Emil Johnson aged 73 revered local resident, which occurred with shocking suddenness from a heart attack about 7 o'clock that evening in his home on East Main. Friday afternoon when he quit his day's labors he appeared to be in unusually vigorous health and spirits. After partaking of the evening meal he seated himself in the living room of his home to peruse the evening paper and while thus engaged suddenly expired. His son and daughter in law Mr and Mrs Albert Johnson, who resided with him at the family home were present when the end came. In Mr Johnson the highest virtues of citizenship were represented. His ceaseless industry his rugged honesty, Christian qualities devotion to his family and general kindly impulses compelled the admiration and affection of his fellow citizens. In his passing a splendid family circle, noted for its devotion has suffered a crushing loss. Mr Johnson's life was dedicated to useful service. his deep love for plants and flowers was reflection in the beautiful flower beds and bounteous gardens at his Man street home which were the admiration of his fellow citizens each year. For a number of years Mr. Johnson had-been employed by 'Judge J. W Boutpn, being held in affectionate esteem by the McKean county juries and his family. Charles Emil Johnson was born in
the province of Ostergotland, Sweden July 24, 1857. He came to America in the spring of 1880, locating in Jamestown for a short time,- but came to Smethport the same year and had since resided here during the fifty years which have elapsed. < He married Miss .Josephine Ryberg
of Wilcox an August 14, 1884; a devoted helpmate who passed to the Beyond seven years ago.
To them were born three children, all of whom survive: Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, Mrs. Robert Hull of this borough and Albert J. Johnson of the Hamlln Bank & Trust Co. , He also leaves six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was a charter member, of the Evangelical Lutheran Church' of this place, helping to organize the local congregation in 1891. ' He had served capably as deacon, trustee and Sunday School superintendent of the congregation.
Always maintaining an active interest in civic affairs, Mr. Johnson served ably as a member of the borough council for a number of years. Two years ago he visited Sweden, the land of his birth, spending several months at his childhood home and touring that beautiful country—a trip I
he enjoyed greatly.
The funeral was held at the Lutheran church Monday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, the services being attended by a concourse of friends which taxed the capacity of the church edifice. Floral
tributes were profuse and beautiful. The service was conducted by the Rev. G. S. Larson of Port Allegany, who paid an eloquent tribute to the departed—the service being both in Swedish and English.
Beautiful musical numbers were rendered by the Hallstrom family quartet. ' Burial was made in the family plot in Rose Hill Cemetery. Out-of-town relatives in attendance were Mrs. John Riley, Mrs. Harold Fitzgerald, Mr. and Mrs. H. Ryberg and Arthur Anderson of Warren; Carl
Anderson and Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Anderson of Wilcox.
Jan 8, 1931- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson left Saturday for an extended visit with her daughter, Mrs. Edward Baker, and family of Hammond, Ind.
July 27, 1933- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, Mrs. Edward Baker and children and Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Peterson spent Sunday at Latchworth Park, N.Y. Mrs. Edward Baker and children returned to their home in Hammond, Ind. yesterday after spending several weeks with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson.
Nov. 8, 1934- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. Mrs. Arnold Peterson and Mrs. Edward Baker and children were visitors in Olean last Thursday.
Thurs. Sept 24, 1936- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson were Wilcox visitors on Sunday.
May 25, 1939- Mrs. Edward Baker entertained the members of the S.L. Club at a party at her home last Friday Evening.
Oct 08, 1936- Mrs. Edward Baker and Mrs. Arnold Peterson were Olean visitors on Tuesday. Mrs. Edward Baker will entertain the members of the S.L. Club Friday evening at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J Alfred Johnson on East Main Street.
Nov 4, 1937- Charles Johnson marries Madeline C. Weber
Oct 19, 1939- Mrs. Baker Seriously Ill. Mrs. Edward Baker of Center Street is seriously ill in the Kane Community hospital. Mrs. Baker, daughter of Contractor and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, was stricken on Monday of last week and was taken to the hospital the next day. She has received several blood transfusions. Her condition is reported to be critical.
Oct 26, 1939- Mrs. Baker Improves Some improvement was reported yesterday in the condition of Mrs. Edward Baker, who has been seriously ill in the Kane Community Hospital for over two weeks. Mrs. Baker received her eighth blood transfusion yesterday.
Thurs April 11, 1940- Death of Elsie Johnson Smethport residents were saddened yesterday by news of the death of Mrs. Edward Baker, 30, which occurred in the Kane Community Hospital yesterday morning at 11:25 o'clock. The popular local matron had been a patient in the hospital for six months. Elsie Johnson was born in Smethport on Dec 21, 1909, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. she graduated from Smethport High School with the class of 1927 and was employed as an operator in the Bell Telephone exchange here for two years. On march 20, 1929, she was untied in marriage to Edward Baker of Smethport. Mrs. Baker was a devout member of Ansgarius Lutheran Church. Stricken with a fatal attack of illness last fall. Mrs. Baker had waged a gallant fight for life in the Kane hospital. She received approximately fifty blood transfusions, the blood being donate by a number of Smethport men. Last Friday she submitted to an operation. Mrs. Baker untimely death is particularly tragic because she leaves three small children. She was a devoted wife and mother, beloved by her family and large circle of friends. Surviving are her husband, her parents, one daughter Donna Jean, two sons, Jack and Barry. one sister Mrs. Arnold Peterson and one brother Charles Johnson. Funeral services will be held at Ansgarius Lutheran Church Saturday Afternoon at 2 o'clock, the pastor Rev. C. Russell Lundgren officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.
April 18, 1940 Funeral Services held for Mrs. Edward Baker
Thurs June 6, 1940- Norwich Township High School Library has received contributions in memory of Mrs. Elsie Baker by Mrs. Henry Kleisath and B.B.R. Club
Nov 7, 1940- Donna Jean entertained the members of the Sno White Club at the home of her grandparents, yesterday afternoon.
Jan 21, 1943- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson entertained a party of children at her home Monday evening in honor of the birthday anniversary of her granddaughter, Donna Jean Baker.
Dec. 16, 1943- Missionary Society Christmas meeting The second part of the program was a playlet...presented by several girls of the Junior missionary society.... Donna Jean Baker
June 29, 1944- Confirmation and First Communion of Donna Baker.
April 19, 1945- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson is a patient in the Bradford hospital.
April 24, 1947- "Date With Judy" Well Received by Capacity Audience. Business staff for the production were... Donna Baker.
May 8, 1947- Donna Baker got a new permanent. Who is it for Donna, Smethport boys, or Pete?
June 5, 1947- Did you hear? Donna Baker accepted an invitation from Pete Parkins to his graduation banquet.
April 1, 1948 Helen Cole Entertains for Winifred Reese. Donna Baker was present.
April 15, 1948- Miss Donna Baker who is employed at Bovaid and Seyfang in Bradford, spent the weekend with Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson.
Nov. 25, 1948- Miss Donna Baker of Bradford spent the weekend at the home of her grandparents.
Nov 11, 1950- Emily Johnson, William Daniels Wed Wednesday. Donna Baker was the maid of honor.
May 24, 1951- Miss Donna Jean Baker spent the weekend in East.. N.J. as guest of Miss Hull.
Sept 6, 1951-
March 20, 1952- Funeral Services for J. Alfred Johnson
March 20, 1952- Front page J. A. Johnson Dies Instantly in Car CrashOne of Smethport's best known and most esteemed business men, J. Alfred Johnson, 68, was instantly killed at 1:55 pm. Thursday, March 13, when his car hit a tree on Route 6, about 50 feet beyond the western entrance to the McKean County Home. State Police at Kanewho Investigated, said that Mr. Johnson —who was traveling west—had just passed a State snowplow when the accident occurred. The scene is only a short distance west of the Smethport borough Vine. His car skidded on the slippery highway, left the road and crashed into the tree. The car, a Plymouth coupe, was completely demolished. The point of impact with the tree was the left front door (on the
driver's side.) There had been an unusually heavy fall of snow here Thursday morning and the pavement was still wet in the afternoon. It is reported that Mr. Johnson was driving to Hazelhurst, where he had a business appointment with Justice of the Peace Arnold Field.
McKean County Coroner Elmer Beatty of Bradford investigated and issued a certificate of accidental death.
Mr. Johnson was born in Sweden, July 18, 1883, and had been a resident of this borough for the past 50 years. He was employed by the old Camp Glass Co. In Smethport and became, sucessively a window glass blower and manager of the factory. After the glass plant stopped operations, he entered the building contracting business. About 15 years ago he entered the retail hardware business here. He was a member of the board of Ansgarius Lutheran Church anc
active in the affairs of the church; a past master of McKean Lodge 338, Free and Accepted Masons; and a member of the Smethport Odd Fellows, the Coudersport Consistory
and the Smethport Rotary Club. He served as a member of Borough Council about 12 years
ago. Seldom, if ever, have more sincere expressions of regret been heard here than followed in the wake of the news of Mr. Johnson's death His former customers recalled the courteous attention they always received at Mr. Johnson's store. It was agreed that Mr. Johnsonwas Just as glad to see his Mends and customers, regardless o( whether they wonted to make a 5c purchase or get an estimate on a house, Mr. Johnson always contributed liberally to civic projects— he took great pride in his town. Mr. Johnson's business activities provided a number of jobs for local men. This was not the least of his contributions to the welfare of
Smethport. His complete devotion to his family as a husband, father and grandfaiher
was well known and admired by all who knew him.
It is sad to note that, in the past few months, Ansgarlus Lutheran Church has lost three of its oldest most lo.val supporters—all named Johnson, and all unrelated but out-standing in their work in behalf of ' the congregation. They are: C. P. Johnson. Emil Johnson and, now J. Alfred Johnson. A stalwart trio Come like that is well-nigh impossible to replace.
Mr. Johnson's son, Charles, and the latter's wife were doubly bereaved in the space of a week. Mrs. Johnson's father, Harry Weber, was found dead at his home in Buffalo or. Tuesday, March 4. Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Lena, whom he married in 1907; a son, Charles, with whom Mr. Johnson was associated in the hardware business." and a daughter.
Mrs. Arnold Peterson, all of Smethport. One daughter, Mrs. Elsie Baker, is deceased.
A prayer service was held at the Lee Funeral Home Sunday afternoon at 2:30, followed by services in Ansgarius Church. The pastor, the Rev. C. O. Thunberg, officiated. Honorary pallbearers were John Larson, Fred Milroy, Clarence Sample and William Gustafson. Active
pallbearers were R. M. Dunn, Everett Engstrom, William Kennedy, Merle Hauck, John Gustafson and Lvnn Conant. All were employes of Mr. Johnson. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery. Among those from out of town in attendance at the funeral were: Mrs. Donna Baker Macbeth of Moscow, Idaho; Pfc. John E. Baker of Scott Field, 111.; Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Anderson of Wilcox; Lt. (j.g.) Howard Weber of Buffalo; Miss Emilie Gerlock, R.N., of Buffalo; Mr. and Mrs. A. c. Macbeth of Bradford
March 20, 1952- J. A. Johnson Dies Instantly in Car Crash
Sept 6, 1951- Donna Jean Baker will Wed Sept. 15 Mr and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, East Main Street, Smethport, announce the engagement of their granddaughter, Donna Jean Baker to William Macbeth, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Macbeth 33 Chautauqua Place, Bradford. The wedding will take place Saturday Sept 15, at Arisgarius Lutheran Church here.
Sept 20, 1951- Donna Jean Baker Weds A. Macbeth Here Saturday Music played Because and The sweetest story every told
Miss Donna Jean Baker, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. East Main St.. Smethport. was married to Albert William Macbeth, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert C. Macbeth, 33 Chautauqua PI., Bradford, in a double ring ceremony performed Saturday afternoon at 2
o'clock in the Smethport Ansgarius Lutheran Church. The Rev. C. O. Thunberg, pastor, heard the bridal couple speak their marriage vows The church altar was decorated for the occasion with bouquets of chrysanthemums. During the marriage service the church organist played
a program of music which included "Because" and "The Sweetest Story Ever Told."
Attending tne couple were Miss Jacqueline Arick, bridesmaid, and Albert C. Macbeth, father of the bridegroom, best man- John Baker, air cadet stationed In Wisconsin, and Barry Peterson,
Smethport, brothers of the. bride, served as ushers at the wedding. Given in marriage by her grandfather, the bride chose a green suit with brown accessories, and she wore a corsage of bronze orchids. The bride's attendant, Miss Arick, selected a beige suit and brown ac-cessories with which she wore a corsage of yellow roses. A gray suit with black accessoriesand an oichid corsage foimed the ensemble worn by the bride's grandmother, Mrs. Johnson. Mrs. Macbeth
chose a dore gray suit, black accessories and a corsage" of gardenias, reception was held following the church ceremony.
The bride is a graduate of the Smethport High School, The bridegroom, a graduate of the Lakewood High School, Ohio, and the University of Idaho, will continue his graduate studies at the university, and the couple will reside in Moscow, Idaho.
Out-of-town guests at the wedding were: Mrs. Frank Rock and Mr. and Mrs. Vern Muntain of
Warren, O., and Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Carl of Columbus, O.
Aug. 20, 1953- Mrs. William Macbeth and infant daughter will leave today for their home in Greybull, Wyo. after visiting at the home of the formers grandmother.
June 2, 1955- Parents of a Son. Mr. and Mrs. William Macbeth of Moscow, Idaho are the parents of a son, born Monday May 16. Mrs Macbeth is the former Miss Donna Baker and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson of Smethport is the great-grandmother of the infant.
Dec. 5, 1957- Mrs. William Macbeth and children, Linda and Alec, of Santiego, Cali. arrived Tuesday, Mrs. Macbeth is the granddaughter of Mrs. Lena Johnson, a patient in the Kane Community Hospital.
Jan 30, 1958- Mrs. William Macbeth and children of San Diego, Cali who had been guests...
Nov 21 1962-
August 22, 1963- Johnson Store Now a Member of New Group
Sept 26, 1963- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson Obituary Mrs. Hulda Caroline (Lena>
Johnson, 77, wife of the lale J. Alfred Johnson, died at her home on E. Main St., Smethporl, Monday after a long illness.
She was born in Smeihport on Dec. 1, 1885, a daughter of the late Charles E, and Josephine
Ryberg Johnson. Her husband was a prominent building contractor and founded Ihe J. Alfred Johnson Hardware Store on Main St., Smclhport.
Mrs. Johnson was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Surviving are a son, Charles; a
daughter, Mrs. Arnold (Alice) Pc!crson; a brother, 0. Albert Johnson; a sisler, Mrs. Robert
(Vcra) Hull, all of Smeihport; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
A prayer service will he held this afternoon at 1:45 in Ihe Lee Funeral Home, followed by the
funeral service at 2 in Trinity Lutheran Church. The Rev. Roy W. Cbristensen, pastor, will officiate.
Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.
Oct 3, 1963- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson Funeral Services
Oct 12, 1972 Robert L. Hull Funeral. He fell and fractured his hip the week before.
day.
August 7, 1919- Miss Elsa Johnson motored to Port Allegany Wed evening.
Thurs July 15, 1920- Mrs. Chas. Johnson, Mrs. Alfred Johnson and children, Alice, Elsie, and Chas. and Miss Vera Johnson were guests of Mrs. R. Scherer of Port Allegany last Friday.
Thurs Jan 5, 1922- Mrs. Alfred Johnson and daughter, Elsie, were in Buffalo last week, were the latter, who has been in poor health, is receiving treatment from Dr. Gardner. Mrs. Johnson and daughter returned last Friday, going back to Buffalo Monday, where Elsie will undergo an extensive surgical operation. Her condition is reported as extremely serious.
April 19, 1923- Death of Mrs. Chas Johnson
Mrs. Chas Johnson, a highly esteemed Smethport lady, died at her home on East Main Street about 6:30 o'clock Tuesday evening, following a brief illness. Mrs Johnson was stricken with a severe paralytic stroke last Thursday and her condition grew steadily weaker. Mrs. Josephine Johnson was born in Halmstad, Sweden Jun 8th 1862, and came to America in 1873. She had resided in Smethport since 1878. Mrs Johnson was a woman of noble character whose death will be sincerely mourned by all who knew here. In the passing a faithful wife and indulgent mother has been removed from a splendid family circle.
April 26, 1923- Mrs. A.B. Anderson of Wilcox. C.O. Ryberg of Sheffield and Adolph Ryberg of Bradford who were called to Smethport by the death and funeral of their sister Mrs. Chas. Johnson have returned to their homes.
Thurs June 28, 1923- Marriage of Vera Johnson to Robert L. Hull.
June, 16, 1927- Elsa Johnson graduates from High school
June 23, 1927- The members of the senior class Smethport high School... returned last Friday evening from the trip to Washington and other points of interest which consumed the preceding week. All who made the pilgrimage were most enthusiastic over the experience. Those from the class who made the trip...Elsa Johnson.
Thurs, Aug 25, 1927- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, children Elsie and Charles and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hull and son Bobbie were Buffalo visitors over Sunday, making the trip in the Johnson car.
Thurs, Nov. 3, 1927- Recent deliveries of console model radios by Forrest Nourse, local dealer, were to Albert Johnson of Smethport, Don Nelson and Frank Laveline of Derrick City.
Thurs. Dec 8, 1927- Car Accident Miss Elsie Johnson injuries were painful but not serious in nature.
Dec 1, 1927- Miss Elsie Johnson is visiting her sister Miss Alice Johnson in Buffalo this week.
June 21, 1928- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, daughters Alice and Elsa and son Charles spent Sunday at Chautaugua Lake. Miss Alice Johnson who has a position in Buffalo is spending two weeks vacation with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson.
Aug 2, 1928- Miss Elsa entertained the S.L. Club at her home on East Main street Wed Evening. Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson and children Elsa and Charles were Renovo visitors last Sunday.
Oct 4, 1928- Mrs. J Alfred Johnson is entertaining the Lutheran Ladies Aid this afternoon.
Oct 11, 1928- Mr and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, daughter Elsa and son Charles were Buffalo visitors Sunday.
Dec 13, 1928- Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, Misses Elsie and Alice Johnson and Chas. Johnson were Olean Shoppers, Saturday.
Feb 21, 1929- Mr and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, Misses Elsie and Alice Johnson and son Charles were Bradford visitors, Saturday evening.
Thurs March 28, 1929- Miss Elsie Johnson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, and Edward Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Baker were united in marriage Thursday, March 21, in Olean. Mr. and Mrs. Baker left immediately following the ceremony for Hammond Ill. were they will make their future home.
Thurs Jan. 19, 1930-A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Edward Baker of Hammond, Ind., Monday January 16th. Mrs. Baker was formerly Miss Elsa Johnson of this place.
Jan. 23, 1930- Born to Mr and Mrs. Edward Baker of Hammond, Ind. a daughter Jan 18. Mrs. Baker was formerly Elsa Johnson of this place.
Aug 8, 1930- Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter Donna Jean were Olean visitors Saturday.
Sept 4, 1930- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson and son, Charles, Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter Donna Jean and Chas. E. Johnson were in Youngsville, Pa. visitors on Sunday. Mrs. Edward Baker and daughter, Donna Jean, returned to their home in Hammond, Ind. on Tuesday after two weeks visit with her parents.
Oct 9, 1930- Charles Emil Johnson died. Chas. Johnson called to the Great Beyond
Charles Emil Johnson aged 73 revered local resident, which occurred with shocking suddenness from a heart attack about 7 o'clock that evening in his home on East Main. Friday afternoon when he quit his day's labors he appeared to be in unusually vigorous health and spirits. After partaking of the evening meal he seated himself in the living room of his home to peruse the evening paper and while thus engaged suddenly expired. His son and daughter in law Mr and Mrs Albert Johnson, who resided with him at the family home were present when the end came. In Mr Johnson the highest virtues of citizenship were represented. His ceaseless industry his rugged honesty, Christian qualities devotion to his family and general kindly impulses compelled the admiration and affection of his fellow citizens. In his passing a splendid family circle, noted for its devotion has suffered a crushing loss. Mr Johnson's life was dedicated to useful service. his deep love for plants and flowers was reflection in the beautiful flower beds and bounteous gardens at his Man street home which were the admiration of his fellow citizens each year. For a number of years Mr. Johnson had-been employed by 'Judge J. W Boutpn, being held in affectionate esteem by the McKean county juries and his family. Charles Emil Johnson was born in
the province of Ostergotland, Sweden July 24, 1857. He came to America in the spring of 1880, locating in Jamestown for a short time,- but came to Smethport the same year and had since resided here during the fifty years which have elapsed. < He married Miss .Josephine Ryberg
of Wilcox an August 14, 1884; a devoted helpmate who passed to the Beyond seven years ago.
To them were born three children, all of whom survive: Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, Mrs. Robert Hull of this borough and Albert J. Johnson of the Hamlln Bank & Trust Co. , He also leaves six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was a charter member, of the Evangelical Lutheran Church' of this place, helping to organize the local congregation in 1891. ' He had served capably as deacon, trustee and Sunday School superintendent of the congregation.
Always maintaining an active interest in civic affairs, Mr. Johnson served ably as a member of the borough council for a number of years. Two years ago he visited Sweden, the land of his birth, spending several months at his childhood home and touring that beautiful country—a trip I
he enjoyed greatly.
The funeral was held at the Lutheran church Monday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, the services being attended by a concourse of friends which taxed the capacity of the church edifice. Floral
tributes were profuse and beautiful. The service was conducted by the Rev. G. S. Larson of Port Allegany, who paid an eloquent tribute to the departed—the service being both in Swedish and English.
Beautiful musical numbers were rendered by the Hallstrom family quartet. ' Burial was made in the family plot in Rose Hill Cemetery. Out-of-town relatives in attendance were Mrs. John Riley, Mrs. Harold Fitzgerald, Mr. and Mrs. H. Ryberg and Arthur Anderson of Warren; Carl
Anderson and Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Anderson of Wilcox.
Jan 8, 1931- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson left Saturday for an extended visit with her daughter, Mrs. Edward Baker, and family of Hammond, Ind.
July 27, 1933- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, Mrs. Edward Baker and children and Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Peterson spent Sunday at Latchworth Park, N.Y. Mrs. Edward Baker and children returned to their home in Hammond, Ind. yesterday after spending several weeks with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson.
Nov. 8, 1934- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. Mrs. Arnold Peterson and Mrs. Edward Baker and children were visitors in Olean last Thursday.
Thurs. Sept 24, 1936- Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson were Wilcox visitors on Sunday.
May 25, 1939- Mrs. Edward Baker entertained the members of the S.L. Club at a party at her home last Friday Evening.
Oct 08, 1936- Mrs. Edward Baker and Mrs. Arnold Peterson were Olean visitors on Tuesday. Mrs. Edward Baker will entertain the members of the S.L. Club Friday evening at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J Alfred Johnson on East Main Street.
Nov 4, 1937- Charles Johnson marries Madeline C. Weber
Oct 19, 1939- Mrs. Baker Seriously Ill. Mrs. Edward Baker of Center Street is seriously ill in the Kane Community hospital. Mrs. Baker, daughter of Contractor and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, was stricken on Monday of last week and was taken to the hospital the next day. She has received several blood transfusions. Her condition is reported to be critical.
Oct 26, 1939- Mrs. Baker Improves Some improvement was reported yesterday in the condition of Mrs. Edward Baker, who has been seriously ill in the Kane Community Hospital for over two weeks. Mrs. Baker received her eighth blood transfusion yesterday.
Thurs April 11, 1940- Death of Elsie Johnson Smethport residents were saddened yesterday by news of the death of Mrs. Edward Baker, 30, which occurred in the Kane Community Hospital yesterday morning at 11:25 o'clock. The popular local matron had been a patient in the hospital for six months. Elsie Johnson was born in Smethport on Dec 21, 1909, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. she graduated from Smethport High School with the class of 1927 and was employed as an operator in the Bell Telephone exchange here for two years. On march 20, 1929, she was untied in marriage to Edward Baker of Smethport. Mrs. Baker was a devout member of Ansgarius Lutheran Church. Stricken with a fatal attack of illness last fall. Mrs. Baker had waged a gallant fight for life in the Kane hospital. She received approximately fifty blood transfusions, the blood being donate by a number of Smethport men. Last Friday she submitted to an operation. Mrs. Baker untimely death is particularly tragic because she leaves three small children. She was a devoted wife and mother, beloved by her family and large circle of friends. Surviving are her husband, her parents, one daughter Donna Jean, two sons, Jack and Barry. one sister Mrs. Arnold Peterson and one brother Charles Johnson. Funeral services will be held at Ansgarius Lutheran Church Saturday Afternoon at 2 o'clock, the pastor Rev. C. Russell Lundgren officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.
April 18, 1940 Funeral Services held for Mrs. Edward Baker
Thurs June 6, 1940- Norwich Township High School Library has received contributions in memory of Mrs. Elsie Baker by Mrs. Henry Kleisath and B.B.R. Club
Nov 7, 1940- Donna Jean entertained the members of the Sno White Club at the home of her grandparents, yesterday afternoon.
Jan 21, 1943- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson entertained a party of children at her home Monday evening in honor of the birthday anniversary of her granddaughter, Donna Jean Baker.
Dec. 16, 1943- Missionary Society Christmas meeting The second part of the program was a playlet...presented by several girls of the Junior missionary society.... Donna Jean Baker
June 29, 1944- Confirmation and First Communion of Donna Baker.
April 19, 1945- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson is a patient in the Bradford hospital.
April 24, 1947- "Date With Judy" Well Received by Capacity Audience. Business staff for the production were... Donna Baker.
May 8, 1947- Donna Baker got a new permanent. Who is it for Donna, Smethport boys, or Pete?
June 5, 1947- Did you hear? Donna Baker accepted an invitation from Pete Parkins to his graduation banquet.
April 1, 1948 Helen Cole Entertains for Winifred Reese. Donna Baker was present.
April 15, 1948- Miss Donna Baker who is employed at Bovaid and Seyfang in Bradford, spent the weekend with Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson.
Nov. 25, 1948- Miss Donna Baker of Bradford spent the weekend at the home of her grandparents.
Nov 11, 1950- Emily Johnson, William Daniels Wed Wednesday. Donna Baker was the maid of honor.
May 24, 1951- Miss Donna Jean Baker spent the weekend in East.. N.J. as guest of Miss Hull.
Sept 6, 1951-
March 20, 1952- Funeral Services for J. Alfred Johnson
March 20, 1952- Front page J. A. Johnson Dies Instantly in Car CrashOne of Smethport's best known and most esteemed business men, J. Alfred Johnson, 68, was instantly killed at 1:55 pm. Thursday, March 13, when his car hit a tree on Route 6, about 50 feet beyond the western entrance to the McKean County Home. State Police at Kanewho Investigated, said that Mr. Johnson —who was traveling west—had just passed a State snowplow when the accident occurred. The scene is only a short distance west of the Smethport borough Vine. His car skidded on the slippery highway, left the road and crashed into the tree. The car, a Plymouth coupe, was completely demolished. The point of impact with the tree was the left front door (on the
driver's side.) There had been an unusually heavy fall of snow here Thursday morning and the pavement was still wet in the afternoon. It is reported that Mr. Johnson was driving to Hazelhurst, where he had a business appointment with Justice of the Peace Arnold Field.
McKean County Coroner Elmer Beatty of Bradford investigated and issued a certificate of accidental death.
Mr. Johnson was born in Sweden, July 18, 1883, and had been a resident of this borough for the past 50 years. He was employed by the old Camp Glass Co. In Smethport and became, sucessively a window glass blower and manager of the factory. After the glass plant stopped operations, he entered the building contracting business. About 15 years ago he entered the retail hardware business here. He was a member of the board of Ansgarius Lutheran Church anc
active in the affairs of the church; a past master of McKean Lodge 338, Free and Accepted Masons; and a member of the Smethport Odd Fellows, the Coudersport Consistory
and the Smethport Rotary Club. He served as a member of Borough Council about 12 years
ago. Seldom, if ever, have more sincere expressions of regret been heard here than followed in the wake of the news of Mr. Johnson's death His former customers recalled the courteous attention they always received at Mr. Johnson's store. It was agreed that Mr. Johnsonwas Just as glad to see his Mends and customers, regardless o( whether they wonted to make a 5c purchase or get an estimate on a house, Mr. Johnson always contributed liberally to civic projects— he took great pride in his town. Mr. Johnson's business activities provided a number of jobs for local men. This was not the least of his contributions to the welfare of
Smethport. His complete devotion to his family as a husband, father and grandfaiher
was well known and admired by all who knew him.
It is sad to note that, in the past few months, Ansgarlus Lutheran Church has lost three of its oldest most lo.val supporters—all named Johnson, and all unrelated but out-standing in their work in behalf of ' the congregation. They are: C. P. Johnson. Emil Johnson and, now J. Alfred Johnson. A stalwart trio Come like that is well-nigh impossible to replace.
Mr. Johnson's son, Charles, and the latter's wife were doubly bereaved in the space of a week. Mrs. Johnson's father, Harry Weber, was found dead at his home in Buffalo or. Tuesday, March 4. Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Lena, whom he married in 1907; a son, Charles, with whom Mr. Johnson was associated in the hardware business." and a daughter.
Mrs. Arnold Peterson, all of Smethport. One daughter, Mrs. Elsie Baker, is deceased.
A prayer service was held at the Lee Funeral Home Sunday afternoon at 2:30, followed by services in Ansgarius Church. The pastor, the Rev. C. O. Thunberg, officiated. Honorary pallbearers were John Larson, Fred Milroy, Clarence Sample and William Gustafson. Active
pallbearers were R. M. Dunn, Everett Engstrom, William Kennedy, Merle Hauck, John Gustafson and Lvnn Conant. All were employes of Mr. Johnson. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery. Among those from out of town in attendance at the funeral were: Mrs. Donna Baker Macbeth of Moscow, Idaho; Pfc. John E. Baker of Scott Field, 111.; Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Anderson of Wilcox; Lt. (j.g.) Howard Weber of Buffalo; Miss Emilie Gerlock, R.N., of Buffalo; Mr. and Mrs. A. c. Macbeth of Bradford
March 20, 1952- J. A. Johnson Dies Instantly in Car Crash
Sept 6, 1951- Donna Jean Baker will Wed Sept. 15 Mr and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson, East Main Street, Smethport, announce the engagement of their granddaughter, Donna Jean Baker to William Macbeth, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Macbeth 33 Chautauqua Place, Bradford. The wedding will take place Saturday Sept 15, at Arisgarius Lutheran Church here.
Sept 20, 1951- Donna Jean Baker Weds A. Macbeth Here Saturday Music played Because and The sweetest story every told
Miss Donna Jean Baker, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson. East Main St.. Smethport. was married to Albert William Macbeth, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert C. Macbeth, 33 Chautauqua PI., Bradford, in a double ring ceremony performed Saturday afternoon at 2
o'clock in the Smethport Ansgarius Lutheran Church. The Rev. C. O. Thunberg, pastor, heard the bridal couple speak their marriage vows The church altar was decorated for the occasion with bouquets of chrysanthemums. During the marriage service the church organist played
a program of music which included "Because" and "The Sweetest Story Ever Told."
Attending tne couple were Miss Jacqueline Arick, bridesmaid, and Albert C. Macbeth, father of the bridegroom, best man- John Baker, air cadet stationed In Wisconsin, and Barry Peterson,
Smethport, brothers of the. bride, served as ushers at the wedding. Given in marriage by her grandfather, the bride chose a green suit with brown accessories, and she wore a corsage of bronze orchids. The bride's attendant, Miss Arick, selected a beige suit and brown ac-cessories with which she wore a corsage of yellow roses. A gray suit with black accessoriesand an oichid corsage foimed the ensemble worn by the bride's grandmother, Mrs. Johnson. Mrs. Macbeth
chose a dore gray suit, black accessories and a corsage" of gardenias, reception was held following the church ceremony.
The bride is a graduate of the Smethport High School, The bridegroom, a graduate of the Lakewood High School, Ohio, and the University of Idaho, will continue his graduate studies at the university, and the couple will reside in Moscow, Idaho.
Out-of-town guests at the wedding were: Mrs. Frank Rock and Mr. and Mrs. Vern Muntain of
Warren, O., and Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Carl of Columbus, O.
Aug. 20, 1953- Mrs. William Macbeth and infant daughter will leave today for their home in Greybull, Wyo. after visiting at the home of the formers grandmother.
June 2, 1955- Parents of a Son. Mr. and Mrs. William Macbeth of Moscow, Idaho are the parents of a son, born Monday May 16. Mrs Macbeth is the former Miss Donna Baker and Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson of Smethport is the great-grandmother of the infant.
Dec. 5, 1957- Mrs. William Macbeth and children, Linda and Alec, of Santiego, Cali. arrived Tuesday, Mrs. Macbeth is the granddaughter of Mrs. Lena Johnson, a patient in the Kane Community Hospital.
Jan 30, 1958- Mrs. William Macbeth and children of San Diego, Cali who had been guests...
Nov 21 1962-
August 22, 1963- Johnson Store Now a Member of New Group
Sept 26, 1963- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson Obituary Mrs. Hulda Caroline (Lena>
Johnson, 77, wife of the lale J. Alfred Johnson, died at her home on E. Main St., Smethporl, Monday after a long illness.
She was born in Smeihport on Dec. 1, 1885, a daughter of the late Charles E, and Josephine
Ryberg Johnson. Her husband was a prominent building contractor and founded Ihe J. Alfred Johnson Hardware Store on Main St., Smclhport.
Mrs. Johnson was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Surviving are a son, Charles; a
daughter, Mrs. Arnold (Alice) Pc!crson; a brother, 0. Albert Johnson; a sisler, Mrs. Robert
(Vcra) Hull, all of Smeihport; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
A prayer service will he held this afternoon at 1:45 in Ihe Lee Funeral Home, followed by the
funeral service at 2 in Trinity Lutheran Church. The Rev. Roy W. Cbristensen, pastor, will officiate.
Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.
Oct 3, 1963- Mrs. J. Alfred Johnson Funeral Services
Oct 12, 1972 Robert L. Hull Funeral. He fell and fractured his hip the week before.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Forrest Kennington
Mormon settlers helped to make Wyoming a state
A good portion of Wyoming's first tentative steps toward statehood - which was achieved July 10, 1890 - were taken by early Latter-day Saints who established colonies, constructed roads, dug irrigation canals and helped build railroads in what was then an untamed frontier.
The 39 Church members who were called in October 1853 to build a permanent settlement near Fort Bridger were no strangers to Wyoming. Mormon pioneers had traversed Wyoming's plains and hills ever since 1847, the year the first Latter-day Saints entered the Salt Lake Valley. Fort Bridger was then a trade and supply center for western bound pioneers, including Brigham Young and his fellow travelers.When the 1853 group of colonists from the Salt Lake Valley arrived at Fort Bridger, they found the place already occupied by some mountain men. The LDS colonists moved on about 12 miles southwest and established a colony that became known as Fort Supply. Brigham Young purchased Fort Bridger in 1855. When Col. Albert Sidney Johnston led a contingent of the U.S. Army against Utah, the saints abandoned Fort Supply and Fort Bridger.
LDS colonizers made significant contributions to Wyoming's growth in the 1880s when they settled the Salt River Valley - later named Star Valley - in western Wyoming. (Star Valley actually consists of two small valleys united by a narrow mountain pass. Two stakes and 14 wards are organized in the communities of Freedom, Etna, Thayne, Bedford, Grover, Afton, Osmond, Fairview, Smoot and Auburn.)
The area today is still predominantly LDS, and many of its older residents recall the history of the pastoral valley as if they had experienced it first hand. "I grew up hearing my father and my uncles tell stories about this valley," said Forest Kennington, a member of the Afton Wyoming Stake.
His grandparents, William Henry and Elizabeth Ann Lee Bracken Kennington, were among early settlers who endured Wyoming's harsh winters to help establish a community of saints in western Wyoming. To them came the sad distinction of being the first Mormon settlers who buried a child in Afton; he died in 1887.
"Star Valley wasn't an unknown quantity," said Kennington. "Trappers had been here for 50 or 60 years before the Mormon colonists came in. The Lander Trail, a cutoff of the Oregon Trail, passed through here.
"In 1877, Moses Thatcher and Bishop William Preston visited this valley. It was vacant except for a lot of Shoshone willow houses. In 1878, several apostles visited the valley, and Brigham Young Jr. dedicated it by prayer as a gathering place for the saints. The name was changed from Salt River Valley to Star Valley because Moses Thatcher said it was a star among valleys."
Kennington describes himself as a lifelong historian, and a collector of stories and artifacts. Many of his stories are preserved in a book he wrote, Salt River, the First Hundred Years. His affinity for Star Valley is summed up in the book's final lines:
"We are often asked if anything historically important happened here. To many, contention and conflict make the news and then the history from the news. It is to the everlasting credit of the people of this area, both red and white, that this western Wyoming and eastern Idaho could go through all phases of frontier development, exploration, fur trade, immigrant travel, displacement of the Indians, cattle drives and settlement without more confrontations. . . . The history of Star Valley is the story of a determined and resourceful people making a home for themselves in a harsh but beautiful valley."
The Big Horn Basin is another part of Wyoming in which Latter-day Saints made significant contributions. The colonization of this area differed from other Mormon colonization efforts in that it was Wyoming's governor who requested that the Latter-day Saints come to his state. Just 10 years after Wyoming achieved statehood, Gov. DeForrest Richards visited President Lorenzo Snow, asking that a colony of Mormons be sent into the Big Horn Basin to assist in colonizing northern Wyoming.
Today, the Big Horn Basin has three stakes and 21 wards in Burlington, Cody, Meeteetse, Otto, Powell, Byron, Cowley, Lovell, Basin, Greybull, Ten Sleep, Thermopolis and Worland.
President Snow appointed Abraham O. Woodruff of the Council of the Twelve to take charge of what became the Big Horn Basin Colonization Company. The colonists' primary task was to dig a 37-mile-long canal that would be large enough to carry water to irrigate 1,200-1,500 acres of land.
"It will take a united effort to perform this gigantic task, for we are few in number," Smoot told the colonists. "I urge you to keep the Word of Wisdom, pay your tithes and offerings. Do not profane the name of the Deity. Be honest with all men. Honor the Sabbath Day, and if you do these things, this will be a land of Zion unto you and your children and children's children throughout the generations that are to come. And that you may be united, I now, as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, call each and all of you upon a mission to help build up this country, and if you will do this, the Lord will bless you forever."
Wyoming today has 51,000 members in 16 stakes.
The 39 Church members who were called in October 1853 to build a permanent settlement near Fort Bridger were no strangers to Wyoming. Mormon pioneers had traversed Wyoming's plains and hills ever since 1847, the year the first Latter-day Saints entered the Salt Lake Valley. Fort Bridger was then a trade and supply center for western bound pioneers, including Brigham Young and his fellow travelers.When the 1853 group of colonists from the Salt Lake Valley arrived at Fort Bridger, they found the place already occupied by some mountain men. The LDS colonists moved on about 12 miles southwest and established a colony that became known as Fort Supply. Brigham Young purchased Fort Bridger in 1855. When Col. Albert Sidney Johnston led a contingent of the U.S. Army against Utah, the saints abandoned Fort Supply and Fort Bridger.
LDS colonizers made significant contributions to Wyoming's growth in the 1880s when they settled the Salt River Valley - later named Star Valley - in western Wyoming. (Star Valley actually consists of two small valleys united by a narrow mountain pass. Two stakes and 14 wards are organized in the communities of Freedom, Etna, Thayne, Bedford, Grover, Afton, Osmond, Fairview, Smoot and Auburn.)
The area today is still predominantly LDS, and many of its older residents recall the history of the pastoral valley as if they had experienced it first hand. "I grew up hearing my father and my uncles tell stories about this valley," said Forest Kennington, a member of the Afton Wyoming Stake.
His grandparents, William Henry and Elizabeth Ann Lee Bracken Kennington, were among early settlers who endured Wyoming's harsh winters to help establish a community of saints in western Wyoming. To them came the sad distinction of being the first Mormon settlers who buried a child in Afton; he died in 1887.
"Star Valley wasn't an unknown quantity," said Kennington. "Trappers had been here for 50 or 60 years before the Mormon colonists came in. The Lander Trail, a cutoff of the Oregon Trail, passed through here.
"In 1877, Moses Thatcher and Bishop William Preston visited this valley. It was vacant except for a lot of Shoshone willow houses. In 1878, several apostles visited the valley, and Brigham Young Jr. dedicated it by prayer as a gathering place for the saints. The name was changed from Salt River Valley to Star Valley because Moses Thatcher said it was a star among valleys."
Kennington describes himself as a lifelong historian, and a collector of stories and artifacts. Many of his stories are preserved in a book he wrote, Salt River, the First Hundred Years. His affinity for Star Valley is summed up in the book's final lines:
"We are often asked if anything historically important happened here. To many, contention and conflict make the news and then the history from the news. It is to the everlasting credit of the people of this area, both red and white, that this western Wyoming and eastern Idaho could go through all phases of frontier development, exploration, fur trade, immigrant travel, displacement of the Indians, cattle drives and settlement without more confrontations. . . . The history of Star Valley is the story of a determined and resourceful people making a home for themselves in a harsh but beautiful valley."
The Big Horn Basin is another part of Wyoming in which Latter-day Saints made significant contributions. The colonization of this area differed from other Mormon colonization efforts in that it was Wyoming's governor who requested that the Latter-day Saints come to his state. Just 10 years after Wyoming achieved statehood, Gov. DeForrest Richards visited President Lorenzo Snow, asking that a colony of Mormons be sent into the Big Horn Basin to assist in colonizing northern Wyoming.
Today, the Big Horn Basin has three stakes and 21 wards in Burlington, Cody, Meeteetse, Otto, Powell, Byron, Cowley, Lovell, Basin, Greybull, Ten Sleep, Thermopolis and Worland.
President Snow appointed Abraham O. Woodruff of the Council of the Twelve to take charge of what became the Big Horn Basin Colonization Company. The colonists' primary task was to dig a 37-mile-long canal that would be large enough to carry water to irrigate 1,200-1,500 acres of land.
"It will take a united effort to perform this gigantic task, for we are few in number," Smoot told the colonists. "I urge you to keep the Word of Wisdom, pay your tithes and offerings. Do not profane the name of the Deity. Be honest with all men. Honor the Sabbath Day, and if you do these things, this will be a land of Zion unto you and your children and children's children throughout the generations that are to come. And that you may be united, I now, as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, call each and all of you upon a mission to help build up this country, and if you will do this, the Lord will bless you forever."
Wyoming today has 51,000 members in 16 stakes.
Albert William Macbeth
http://books.google.com/books?id=-nBtoxSZAMoC&pg=PA496&lpg=PA496&dq=william+Macbeth+thiokol&source=bl&ots=n0G6_-F1Mu&sig=QRe6Cc0WEZoeX7cfzN3QFXlG-dM&hl=en&sa=X&ei=awwrU_aWO4bioAS3jYHwAw&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=william%20Macbeth%20&f=false
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