In 1915, G. R. McKeith compiled a series of narratives entitled “Pioneer Stories of the Pioneers of Fillmore and Adjoining Counties,” published by the Press of Fillmore County News in Exeter, Nebraska. This collection serves as a historical account, documenting the experiences and contributions of the early settlers who established the foundations of the local communities.
The inception of this project was modest, initially aimed at commemorating a few pioneer stories for a Memorial Service at the Congregational Church. The positive reception of these stories led to their publication in the local newspaper and eventually culminated in the creation of this book. Despite the piecemeal fashion in which the book was assembled and the resulting minor errors, the compilation captures invaluable historical insights.
The book comprises the experiences of forty-eight pioneer families, recounting their trials and triumphs as they navigated the challenges of settling in the prairies. These stories not only highlight the stark contrast between the pioneer era and contemporary times but also provide a glimpse into the old home life and origins of many settlers.
“Pioneer Stories” was created to honor the pioneers on Pioneers’ Memorial Day, June 14, 1914. The rapid transformations of the western prairies within a span of fifty years underscored the significance of acknowledging the pioneers’ spirit and achievements. McKeith aimed to impress upon current and future generations the importance of these pioneers’ work by preserving their reminiscences.
The narratives transport readers back to the days of ox teams, wagons, limitless prairies, and encounters with native tribes. They recount the dangers of prairie fires, often ignited by home seekers or indigenous people, which could devastate miles of land and pose lethal threats to both humans and animals. These vivid accounts of hardship and resilience offer an unvarnished view of pioneer life.
While the book’s format and occasional errors reflect its humble beginnings, its content holds intrinsic value. The stories of these pioneers provide pleasure to the current generation and serve as a factual foundation for future historical research. The accounts included herein are not merely tales but are the documented realities of those who braved the unknown to build the communities we inhabit today.
Through this book, McKeith and the Fillmore County News have preserved a crucial piece of local heritage, ensuring that the legacy of these pioneers continues to inspire and educate.
Pioneer Stories
The following stories were gathered together for the purpose of recognizing: Pioneers’ Memorial Day, June 14, 1914, in honor of the Pioneers whether living or dead.
- Exeter, Fillmore County, Nebraska
- Dr. And Mrs. H. G. Smith Homesteaded In 1870
- Mr. And Mrs. John K. Barber Arrived October 14, 1870
- Mr. and Mrs. Parsons Settled On November 7, 1869
- T. B. Farmer Came In October, 1870
- Colonel N. S. Babcock Arrived In 1871
- John T. Borland
- Mr. Charles N. Phillips
- Jonathan A. Horton
- Thomas Nugent
- Mr. William N. and Mrs. M. E. Babcock
- Christian Kobe
- Alonzo and Palmer Rice
- Patrick Murphy
- Parker Ryan
- Walter Howarth
- Mr. Charles Hole
- John H. Anderson
- Job Hathaway, Willard Payne and Elam Wilcox
- Mr. And Mrs. W. C. Woodworth
- William Ramsdell
- James Horne
- John Ziska
- Philip Schwab
- Mrs. M. L. Roper
- Dr. and Mrs. Goodall
- Leonard Bradley Sage
- Mr. and Mrs. James Alexander
- Henry Hammond
- Doctor O. P. Baker
- James W. Dolan
- W. H. Miner
- William McGhie
- William Dyer
- William Mann
- Charles Eberstein
- L. T. Mead
- John Redfern
- Mr. And Mrs. James Nolan
- Chester C. Stephens
- John S. Beardsley
- Thomas Coates
- W. B. Graul
- William Downey
- John E. Fouse
- C. A. Songster
- W. H. Taylor
- Henry Eberstein
- Reasons for the British Emigration