Exeter Archives – Nebraska Genealogy

Biography of William McGhie

Pioneer Stories of the Pioneers of Fillmore and adjoining Counties title page

William McGhie was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, and was therefore a citizen of no mean city. Having been born in the “Granite City” amidst its seats of learning, culture and art, beautified with its world famed granite buildings; there is no knowing what might have been the filling in of his life had all things been equal, but unfortunately he was deprived of the advantages of a true home and of a mother’s love and leading, she having died in his infancy. After struggling up to manhood he worked about the farms on the outskirts of the city, and evidently … Read more

Remembrances of Mrs M. E. Babcock

Mr. William N. and Mrs. M. E. Babcock came to Nebraska in the fall of 1870, remaining through the winter in Ashland. Mr. Babcock took up a Claim in February, 1871, and they moved onto it in May of that year. The land joined Dr. Smith‘s on the West, part of which is now the Town 1Presumed to be speaking about Exeter, Nebraska. Mr. Babcock died eight years ago and we are indebted to Mrs. Babcock for these reminiscences, who, let me say, fully appreciates the experience of having grown up with a new Country. Their first shelter was a … Read more

Biography of William Ramsdell

William Ramsdell is a native of Michigan. His first visit to Nebraska was in 1865 when he came in the service of the Government because of the depredations committed at that time by the Sioux Indians. He, with his Company arrived at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, on the 17th of June, and then made their way to Fort Kearney, Nebraska, from which point they crossed the State to Fort Laramie, Wyoming. As soon as the Indians knew of the presence of the Government soldiers they wanted peace. It will be remembered that the Sioux Indians had taken advantage of their opportunities, … Read more

Biography of W. B. Graul

W. B. Graul came from Pennsylvania to Nebraska with his father; Levi Joseph Graul arrived at Milford, April 1, 1871. They settled on a farm one and a half miles north west of Goehner, in Seward County, where the mother still lives; the father was killed by lightning on May 19, 1897. Their first night in Nebraska was spent in visiting with William Bivens, the wind that evening was so strong that it upset their wagon. When the father commenced farming he had only a team of horses and five dollars, so he rented a small house; which was guaranteed … Read more

Biography of W. H. Taylor

W. H. Taylor was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, a country which has given birth to some of the fairest women and brightest men of modern times. Though not among the very first settlers of any country, he has seen something of pioneer life in both Canada and the United States. At the age of four years, he with their family left Ireland on a sailing vessel; the voyage lasting eight weeks, during which time most of the family including himself had the smallpox. They arrived in Canada and settled in Carleton County, in what was then an unbroken wilderness; … Read more

Early History of Exeter, Nebraska by W. J. Waite

My good friend and neighbor, Rev. G. R. McKeith, has asked me (W. J. Waite) for a few lines regarding my recollections of the early days of Exeter. I have gotten somehow out of the writing habit and my first recollection of Exeter is somewhat vague. The first time I saw it, I didn’t see it because it wasn’t there (or should I say here?) In the early days of the summer of 1871, the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad in Nebraska, (for such was its legal and official name at that time), was in operation from Plattsmouth to Crete, … Read more

Biography of William Dyer of Fillmore County

William Dyer, born in Hambridge, Somersetshire, England, received his education locally before apprenticing in Glastonbury and working in Wallingford and Hastings. He emigrated to America in 1871, settling in Exeter, Nebraska, with his family. He initially farmed and taught school in Fillmore County, later working for the Home Insurance Company of New York. Known for his dedication to his community and the Congregational Church, Dyer passed away in 1901 and was buried in Exeter Cemetery. His life reflected a blend of English heritage and pioneering spirit in the American Midwest.

Biography of Mr. T. B. Farmer of Fillmore County

Mr. T. B. Farmer arrived in Nebraska from Indiana in October 1870, settling near Lincoln with Warren Woodard. He initially trapped mink and beaver near the Blue River, living off local game. In spring, he homesteaded and built a sod house, and his wife joined him the following year, surprised to find Exeter consisted of just one store. Despite challenges, including a grasshopper plague, the Farmers persevered. They witnessed significant changes over the years and raised Frank Farmer, a noted singer from Denver, Colorado.

Mr. and Mrs. Parsons of York County

Mr. and Mrs. Parsons settled in York County, Nebraska, on November 7, 1869, experiencing typical pioneer hardships, including losses during the Blizzard and Grasshopper years. They managed the district Post Office and had numerous encounters with Native Americans. Their first religious service was held in Buzzard’s Dugout at Blue Vale, led by Elder Colwell of the United Brethren Church. The congregation included both white settlers and Omaha Indians, who were hunting and fishing nearby. A memorable moment occurred when a young lady, initially frightened by an Indian sitting beside her, was reassured by his friendly declaration, “Do not fear! Me Omaha, Me a good Indian!”

Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Woodworth of Fillmore County

Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Woodworth moved from Wisconsin to Nebraska in 1872, homesteading near Exeter. After investing their money in farm improvements, they faced financial difficulties and sought credit from Farmers Grocery Stores in Lincoln. Despite challenges, such as illness and lack of help, they received unexpected kindness from a hunter and neighbors. Mrs. Woodworth, despite her own struggles, selflessly cared for a neighboring family during a measles outbreak. The Woodworths were active members of the “Church of God,” attending services at the Horton schoolhouse. “Father” Green, a devout preacher, served their community, embodying the pioneer spirit of faith and resilience.