Families of Merrick County Nebraska Archives – Page 2 of 6

David & Dora Anderson of Merrick County, Nebraska

A History of Merrick County, Nebraska to 1895

Dora Breyer Anderson (1887-1975) and David Anderson (1891-1965) were prominent figures in their community in Merrick County, Nebraska. Born in different towns in Wisconsin and Nebraska respectively, they married on February 18, 1914, in Wahoo, Nebraska. After moving to Merrick County, they established their life on a farm, which became the center of their family and professional endeavors. Their only child, Myrtle, was born in 1915. David’s farming activities included feeding cattle and raising hogs, and he played a significant role in the local agricultural community by operating the separator during the harvest’s steam threshing operations. Dora was an active community member, involved in the Community Sewing Circle from its inception in 1916 until its disbandment. The couple was well-regarded for their contributions to local farming and community life, leaving behind a rich legacy including their descendants who continued the farming tradition. David and Dora celebrated significant marriage milestones before David’s death in 1965 and Dora’s in 1975.

Thure W. Anderson Family of Merrick County, Nebraska

Thure William Anderson (1891-1980) was a significant community figure in Palmer, Nebraska, known for his service in the U.S. Army during World War I and his deep involvement in local community affairs. Born in Örebro Län, Sweden, Thure migrated to the United States as an infant and grew up in Montgomery County, Iowa. He relocated to Palmer, Nebraska in 1917 and later served in France with the 313th Engineers of the 88th Division during the war. Post-war, he was a founding member of the Burton-Beyer Post #120 of the American Legion in Palmer, holding various leadership roles over several decades. He was also actively involved in local agricultural committees, cemetery and fair boards, and served as a deacon in his church. Thure and his wife Ruth Anderson were married in 1923, had two daughters, and continued to contribute to their community until their retirement in 1962. Thure’s legacy includes his long-standing service to both his country and his community.

Antrim — Shepherd Families of Merrick County, Nebraska

The article reflects on the enduring memories of a family farmstead located east of Havens, dismantled to accommodate modern farming methods. The narrator, Rose Betts, shares vivid childhood memories with her sister, Opal, on a farm built by their grandfather in 1908. Despite the challenges posed by their father’s early-onset arthritis and the economic difficulties during the 1930s drought, the family persevered, running a store in Havens. The narrative intertwines the histories of the Shepherd and Antrim families, early settlers of Merrick County, highlighting their contributions and struggles. Rose’s life journey includes her schooling, marriage to Kenneth M. Colby, subsequent work experiences, and later life with second husband Frank K. Betts. This personal account not only captures the changes in rural American life but also preserves the legacy of two pioneering families interconnected by marriage and shared hardships.

Leo John Armatys of Merrick County, Nebraska

Leo John Armatys (1915-1975) was an influential figure in Central City, Nebraska, with a rich history of community involvement and legal practice. Born to Charles and Josephine Staniec Armatys, Leo quickly excelled in academics, completing high school at age 16 and subsequently joining the Civilian Conservation Corps. He advanced his education through correspondence courses, leading to his admission to the Nebraska Bar in 1939. His personal life was intertwined with his service during World War II, during which he met and married Dorothy Power in 1942. Post-war, Leo resumed his legal career, contributing significantly to the local community until his death. His legacy includes his wife Dorothy, their children, and his impactful professional and personal contributions to Central City.

Noise Coates Arrants of Merrick County, Nebraska

Noise Coates Arrants and Mary Ann Haddix, post-Civil War settlers, established their lives together in Bryan County, Ohio, before relocating to Nebraska in 1879. Settling near Archer on Prairie Creek, Noise transitioned from farming to working with the railroad as it expanded into the area, eventually becoming a section foreman. The couple were integral in founding the Christian Church in Palmer, Nebraska. Their family legacy includes eight children, with lives marked by various notable events: Clyde passed away in infancy, Stephen’s daughter married celebrated baseball player Grover Cleveland Alexander, and Sarah Jane’s son, Vernie, mysteriously disappeared at a young age. The Arrants family’s history encapsulates the challenges and transformations of life in late 19th to early 20th century America, with descendants spreading across states and engaging in diverse professions. Noise and Mary, along with daughters Mina and Sarah, rest in Rose Hill Cemetery, Palmer, Nebraska, leaving a poignant historical footprint through both their communal contributions and family narrative.

Ayers Family of Merrick County, Nebraska

A family photograph of the S. D. and Nancy Ayers family of Central City, Nebraska.

Alfred & Elizabeth Bader of Merrick County, Nebraska

Alfred William Fredrick Bader, born on August 9, 1903, in Chapman, Nebraska, was a pivotal figure in local agriculture and community service. Son of Fredrick William Bader and Mary Amelia Loeffelbein, Alfred married Elizabeth Louise Giesler on March 10, 1925. The couple were known for their extensive contributions to community infrastructure, including donations to local medical facilities and public utilities, and for their support of various civic boards and community organizations. Notably, Alfred’s innovative farming techniques included the early adoption of mechanized combines. His legacy is commemorated through various local landmarks and community awards recognizing his service and philanthropy.

Gary & Connyce Bader of Merrick County, Nebraska

Gary George, born to George and Irwina Bader March 25, 1942, at Palmer, was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Palmer. He attended school at District #49 and later District #63, where there was one teacher for all eight grades. He attended Palmer High School and played football, basketball, and track, graduating in 1961. Connyce Faye (Connie) daughter of James August and Ella Pauline Holtz Bremer, was born September 15, 1944. Baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran at Worms, she attended Zion Lutheran Parochial school. She graduated from Palmer High School in 1962. She was on the girls’ … Read more

George & Irwina Bader of Merrick County, Nebraska

George and Irwina Herbig Bader, residents of Loup Township near Palmer, Nebraska, have shared a lifetime of agricultural and community involvement since their marriage on December 24, 1939. George, a lifelong resident of Merrick County, and Irwina, a teacher by profession, have been actively engaged in farming and educational roles locally. Their sons, Gary and Dean, continued in their footsteps with Gary managing a cow/calf operation and Dean practicing veterinary medicine in California. Throughout their careers, George and Irwina have significantly contributed to local 4-H activities and education, enriching their community’s agricultural and educational sectors. Now retired, they enjoy traveling and spending time with their grandchildren, maintaining strong ties to their home and community.

John & Christine Bader of Merrick County, Nebraska

John Bader, originally from New Philadelphia, Ohio, and Christine Buchfinck from Dieplitz, Russia, settled in Merrick County, Nebraska, following their marriage at Zion Lutheran Church in Worms on March 20, 1875. They initially homesteaded in Prairie Creek Township before purchasing additional land in the same township, where they raised their family of ten children. John Bader, a pioneering figure in the community, played a significant role in establishing his family in farming across the region. His descendants, including his youngest son August and grandson Harold, continued to farm the family land, maintaining a legacy of agricultural prosperity and family unity across generations. This family history reflects a commitment to land, community, and family values spanning over a century.