Mr. and Mrs. Parsons settled on Nov. 7, 1869, ten miles North East
of Exeter, on section 10, in York County, and went through many of
the Pioneer experiences, they had their losses in the Blizzard and
Grasshopper years. For several years they kept the district Post
Office and could tell many stories similar to those recorded about
the visits of Indians, the scaring of women, etc., etc.
One
incident worthy of being mentioned was their first religious
service. This was 'held in Buzzard's Dugout at Blue Vale, some miles
up the Blue River from their home. Elder Colwell of the United
Brethren Church was the preacher, there were about 12 whites and 6
Indians in the house when they arrived the Omaha Indians were in the
neighborhood at the time, fishing and hunting, it being estimated
that the party was 300 strong.
As the service was commencing
a young lady came into the house and sat down on one of the benches
without at first noticing her neighbor, but, when he looked round
and found she had sat next to an Indian she became frightened. The
Indian noticing her embarrassment, turned with a smiling face,
saying, "Do not fear! Me Omaha, Me a good Indian!"
Pioneers of Fillmore and Adjoining Counties
Source: Pioneer Stories of the Pioneers of Fillmore and adjoining Counties, by G. R. McKeith, Press of Fillmore County News, Exeter, Nebraska, 1915
