Text of "Tyndall, South Dakota Centennial 1879-1979"

	This file contains the complete text of the book, "Tyndall, South
	Dakota Centennial 1879-1979" by Maxine K. Schuurmans.

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	Uploaded with the kind permission of the author, Maxine K.
	Schuurmans.

One Hundred Years of Tyndall

-A Centennial History-

by

Maxine K. Schuurmans
Historian


The Tyndall Centennial Committee
Tyndall, S.D.
June, 1979

I. The Beginnings

	1.	The New Town of Tyndall
	2.	The Little City of Bon Homme
	3.	The Railroad
	4.	Early Businesses
	5.	Business Pioneers
	6.	Politics and  the  Reins of Government
	7.	Agriculture and the Weather
	8.	The Doctor's Role
	9.	Entertainment and Recreation
	10.	The Role of Women

II. The People Meet Their Social And Religious Needs

	11. Elliott Hose Co. No.1
	12.	The Czechs
	13. The Churches
	14. The Wars and Those That Served
	15. Groups and Societies

III.	Our Youth

	16.	The Tyndall  Public  School System
	17.	The Country School
	18.	The 4-H Clubs

IV.  Update

	19.	Tyndall Today
	20.	Recreation Update

 Appendixes:
	Map of Bon Homme County

	Map of City of Tyndall
	  Pearl Street, 1910-1914
	Index

page 2
Author's Preface

	"Give it a go, what can you lose, 
	you're far from home anyhow, and you 
	can always go still farther."
		Based on an original idea of Robert 
		Frost. . . Wm. Saroyan, "New Republic"
		p.29, March 4,1978



[ drawing -COURT HOUSE]


B & H Publishing
Tyndall, S.D.
May, 1979

	Four ways are my roots deep in the Tyndall-Tabor community. There 
may be a rare Rehurek-Vavruska on my mother's side, or a Souhrada-Petrik 
on my father's, who do not trace their background to the same hearty pioneers 
who homesteaded in this area, bringing with them little more than a few 
belongings and a deep faith in the lonely land they came to claim.

	My children share this rich Czech blood with their father's sturdy 
Dutch heritage on one side and strong German ties (Beringer and Dahloff) 
on the other, with a lightening of Irish and French besides.

In a way this is also the story of our community, the blending of many 
cultures, each contributing its uniqueness toward the whole, while still 
retaining its own individuality.

	But this story of Tyndall is not meant to be complete, it does in 
fact only concentrate on the first two-thirds of our little city's history. 
Let it remain to another person some years hence to write tomorrow's 
history based on the activities of today. We are sorry that the names of 
so many who have left their imprint here have been left out in the random 
search through old newspapers, documents, and dusty places.

	Most of the memories recorded here are pleasant ones because, by 
the grace of God, we tend to nurture the good and put aside the bad. But 
there are the hard times too-the depression, the wars, the untimely losses 
of loved ones-all the tests of hardship which help cement a diversified people 
into a community which cares, our community.

	Caring is sharing, and share many have in compiling writeups and 
photos for this book. Special mention needs to be made of the Tyndall 
Centennial committee for its supportive effort and especially the 
two young couples, Don and Grace Rothschadl and Rich and Diane Tiahrt 
who have worked for so many months for the success of the Centennial.

page 3

I	The Beginnings

(1) The New Town of Tyndall

	When South Dakota was officially organized as a territory by 
Congress in March, 1861, the site of Tyndall was just part of the great 
rolling prairie. As a town it came into being when the railroad came 
through the county. The first building was the depot and the first 
freight shipment was a box of rabbits, weight 100 pounds, shipped by Alois 
Zienert to Portage, Wisc. M.E. Talcott, agent for the Milwaukee railway, 
issued the receipt which was dated Dec. 9,1879.

	However, previous to that time, Dan Currier, a pioneer of imagination, 
had moved into the vicinity at the first signs of the building of the railroad, 
and built his home and store on the very spot where he thought the railroad ties 
would be placed, four miles west of Tyndall on Emmanuel Creek. But the railroad 
missed Danbury when it came through so Mr. Currier put his buildings on wheels, 
and moved them to the railroad. He then proceeded to survey and plat the townsite, 
located near the geographical center of the county at the junction of the Running 
Water and Charles Mix County branch (otherwise known as the "Squaw Central") of 
the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway.

	Tyndall received its name from Oregon Richmond, the son of an early settler 
of Bon Homme. Mr. Richmond had received his own name as the result of being born 
on a Man-of-War off the coast of Oregon. His father had come to Bon Homme with 
the title of Reverend, but did much dental work and caring for the sick, and was 
known as "Doc". The son, Oregon, had studied to be a scientist and physician, 
and as a result of that study named the new town after John Tyndall, the British 
scientist, who had toured the U.S. in 1872. There is no other town in the United 
States with the same name.

	Originally the town of Tyndall had two business sections. Martin J. Roose 
had a grocery store, J.J. Sperb a wagon shop, and D.W. Currier a drug store and 
grocery in the present business section, but some expected the main street to be 
located in north Tyndall on State Street, and Alois Zienert started a merchandise 
store there. He was joined by Anton Castka with a saloon, and Mr. Markley with a 
blacksmith shop, but finally the business section on the north part of town was 
moved to the present location. Some buildings were remodeled into dwelling houses, 
and remained there. The dwelling place of Alois Zienert was occupied for many years 
by the John Cole family; (in fact, Mr. Zeinert was Mr. Cole's godfather and often 
handed him a ten dollar bill which he accompanied with words of advice.)

	The following might be mentioned as some of the other first business 
establishments in Tyndall: F.A. Morgan, first lumber yard, Jan. 1880; Bouza and 
Bouska, general merchandise; H. Goepfert, agricultural implements; G.T. Rounds, 
livery; L. A. Haight, meat market; and Mrs. M.E. Congleton, hotel. By 1880, the 
city was in the boom stage, and continued in growth. Mr. Currier built the Grand 
Central Hotel, which was the pride of this section and the territory, and was 
referred to in the press as the "greatest hotel this side of Chicago". It was 
opened to the public in 1884.


	The first Congregational church of Tyndall was organized in 1880 when 
the town was a mere infant. Meetings were held in houses, the depot, in a tent, 
and in stores until a new building was occupied in 1897. The first church 
building in Tyndall was the M.E. church built in 1881, followed closely by the 
Presbyterian church in 1881-82. However, prior to that in 1876 a congregation 
of German Baptists had been formed 7 miles southwest of Tyndall, in 1879 a parish

[photo - F.A. Morgan birdseye view of Tyndall.]

page 4

[photo - Birds eye view of Tyndall looking west on Main St. one block 
east of Pearl]

of Catholics 4 1/2 miles southeast of town, and in 1885 a Czech Presbyterian 
church 8 miles east toward Tabor.

	The first school in Tyndall was held in a building about 16x20 owned by 
Martin Roose and located on the lot now occupied by the apartment house which was 
formerly a part of the old Good Samaritan home. The first teacher was America 
Rounds (later Mrs. J.P. Serr), there were about 15 pupils, the eldest of whom 
was Mattie Miller, and the only visitor recorded during the term was F.A. Morgan, 
Tyndall business-man, educator, golden-tongued orator. After one season this 
building was found to be too small, and was moved to Main Street by the owner 
to be used for a grocery store. Another frame structure was built, this time 
on the present school grounds which had to be reached from the east by boats, since 
the land between the school and the next two streets to the east was a lake bed. 
That same year a high boardwalk was built so that boat transportation was no 
longer necessary.

	Before long this school also proved too small and certain grades were held 
in different places, among them the present funeral home. (The history of ZCBJ Tyndall 
lodge Pravda No.80 states that in 1908 the lodge had the privilege of buying the 
old high school building from Tyndall Independent School Dist. No.3 for $2500.00 
for their use as a lodge hall.) However in 1888, when the enrollment reached one 
hundred, the people decided that a new school must be built and so the brick school 
came into being. Later this was destroyed by fire, (in 1929) and replaced with another.

	For several years the railroad ruled the economy of the town, dependent on it 
as were both rural and townspeople for nearly all their needs. However when the 
county seat was moved to Tyndall from Bon Homme in 1885, prosperity was assured. 
The court house provided positions for many as well as being the reason for many 
to come to town. This is still true.

	The Tyndall Tribune was established in 1881 by S. W. Wilcox and in 1885 the 
Tyndall Register was published by Frank Richmond; these two papers served the city and 
county under various publishers and editors until 1937 when they consolidated under 
the name of The Tyndall Tribune and Register. Today it is published by Wayne L. 
Bertrand and Marvin A. Blaha of B & H Publishing, Inc.

[photo - East Pearl north of Oliva's store, Joe Hisek]

page 5

	After incorporation in 1887, city government took a firm hand in the affairs 
of its people, a charge it has never neglected. Prime on the list of needs for the new 
community was a fire department, and Elliott Hose Co. No. 1 was formed. There was a 
need for graded streets, cement sidewalks, sewer and water, lights, parks, and police, 
and all were met in their time. With the growing number of ordinances came a kind 
of protective parochial order which still prevails today.

	In 1910 the city voted bonds for a municipal light plant and this plant was 
quite an improvement over the old privately owned plant, giving the citizens 
twenty-four hour service. In 191/the city with a donation of $7000.00 built a 
splendid Carnegie library, and in 1920 it voted bonds to improve the municipal light 
and water plant and sewer system as well as voting to provide for a city auditorium. All 
these improvements were completed and presented quite an undertaking for a city the 
size of Tyndall. About that time a new dial telephone system was installed to replace 
the old system, an improvement that very few of the larger cities and none of the cities 
the size of Tyndall had at that time. And in 1930 the city paved five blocks on Pearl 
Street, the main business street, and gravelled the balance of the streets, thus 
lifting the city out of the mud.

	We cannot forget the rural community without which there would be no town, 
and conversely, without the town, the rural community could not prosper. This 
interdependence of its people has justified the growth of this one hundred year 
young city which looks to the future with a confidence born of the pioneer spirit 
which contributed to its founding.

	A description of Tyndall as printed in Springfield Times May 27,1882

	Five years ago there were but three families residing within three miles 
of where the town now stands, and nearly all the land was unclaimed for miles 
in every direction. Tyndall is therefore one of our new railroad towns. The records 
of the original town plat and the two additions thereto, bear date, respectively, 
April 12, Nov. 1st and Nov. 29th, 1880. Its present dimensions have thus been attained 
during the year last past.

	It has at present a population of about one hundred. It occupies a beautiful 
and commanding location midway between Scotland on the northeast and Springfield on 
the southwest. Almost every branch of business connected with the necessities of life 
is effectively and profitably conducted. There are five large and well-stocked store 
rooms and the daily sales of merchandise are most respectable in value. Large invoices 
of goods are received from the east every morning and the shipment of local productions 
bears emphatic evidence of the vast productiveness of the surrounding country and the 
thrift and industry of its population. Besides the mercantile establishments above 
mentioned there are a first class livery, two drug stores, two farm implement depots, 
a meat market, a blacksmith shop, two large frame churches, two saloons, a sale stable, 
a book store, two hotels, a restaurant, a boot and shoe manufactory, an extensive 
lumber yard, a printing office (The Tyndall Tribune), a fine railroad depot building 
and station house. A school house worthy of the promise of the town will be erected during 
the coming summer, also a block of brick business houses and a public hall.

	The surrounding country is thickly settled, and excepting the school lands, 
nearly every quarter section has its resident owner. The soil here as elsewhere in 
southeastern Dakota is abundantly fertile and productive. The agricultural population 
are year by year becoming more comfortably conditioned, and with proper industry and 
foresight, competence is within their grasp. All the elements of prosperity and 
progress are here awaiting utilization by capital and labor. No better location for 
business can be found in southeast Dakota.

	Of the population contiguous to Tyndall, the English speaking people 
preponderate; but two miles to the northwest on Emanuel Creek and tributary to 
Tyndall, is a large settlement of German Russians, an enterprising, industrious 
and law-observing people, who are rapidly adopting the social and political and 
business customs of the native born.

[photo - On Pearl looking north from the Grand Central hotel (no water 
tower)]

[photo - The V.J. Ptak home built in 1885, now the Petrik Funeral home]

[photo - Early north Tyndall home, later John Cole home]

page 6

	Tyndall is destined to grow into a large and wealthy town, perhaps the largest 
and wealthiest in the county, and will no doubt eventually become the county seat of 
Bon Homme County. Property purchased or erected here cannot fail to prove most 
profitable ventures on the part of men of business and capital.

(2)    The Little City of Bon Homme

	Through no fault of its own and certainly with no forethought on the part 
of its citizens, the little village of Bon Homme played a large part in the growth 
of Tyndall. It was not that the railroad came to Tyndall that contributed to the 
demise of the friendly little community to the southeast, but that it overlooked 
Bon Homme entirely.

	Bon Homme was settled in 1858 by a colony of settlers from Mankato, Minn., 
which entered the territory immediately after the consummation of the Treaty of 1858. 
This settlement prospered, and Bon Homme became one of the important places of the 
early territorial life. Here was built the first school house in the territory, but 
when the village was left out of the calculations of the builders of the Chicago, 
Milwaukee and St. Paul railroad, its prestige began to depart and its stores, shops 
and hotels followed each other in closing their doors. The buildings that had been the 
former homes of the hopeful and contented pioneers were being moved away until at 
last the final blow came in the spring of 1885 by way of the removal of the county 
seat of Tyndall.

	The following news items (taken from the Tyndall Tribune unless otherwise 
noted) give an indication of the good times as well as the frustrations enjoyed by the 
local citizens of that once-busy town.

	Tyndall is figuring on the capital of Bon Homme County, and the proprietors 
of her town site are just now figuring on how they can get ahead of each other. 
Springfield and Scotland smile and hope the war will continue.
		      	-Yankton Press and Dakotaian, Jan. 1882

	Tyndall is not making any move towards getting the county seat, neither are 
the townsite owners in a wrangle. There may be some truth in the statement that 
Scotland and Springfield consider Tyndall a formidable opponent for county seat 
honors, but just at present our people are talking of nothing but building and 
improvement. When the proper time comes, Tyndall will take a hand in the county seat 
contest.
                         S. W. Wilcox, Jan. 7,1882

	The social dance at Bon Homme on Wednesday was well attended, sixty couples 
having participated in the pleasures of the evening. The supper was gotten up by 
Mrs. Cogan and enjoyed by all. There will be another grand ball at Bon Homme in 
the court house February 2, everybody invited. Ticket for dance and supper $1.50. 
Pike's band of Yankton will enliven the occasion with good music.
		        	-Jan. 7,1882

	We have not lost heart for Bon Homme yet. The old adage is still on the books 
of the present. "He laughs best who laughs last" The day for Bon Homme is coming; move

[drawing - Map of old Bon Homme area taken from 1906. Bon Homme Co. 
atlas, showing old town site.]

[photo - The old Bon Homme cemetery located one mile west of the old 
town site, Lewis and Clark Lake and the Nebraska hills in the background.]

page 7

[photo - Old hotel in Bon Homme operated by Mrs. Cogan.]

among your balloon frames it you will, yet, the day will come when Bon Homme will 
have its boom. All things will come right to him who can wait So we say to our Bon 
Homme friends, "be of good courage, don't give up the ship, success will crown your 
hopes in the future."
			-D.B. Nichols, Jan. 28, 1882

	Will Seaman started his store building from Bon Homme last Friday evening and 
arrived in Tyndall Saturday morning at 2 o'clock. It was quite a surprise to our 
citizens

[photo - The Lady Maccabees of  Bon Homme 1902: Back row, K. Mulleague, 
Mrs. F.C. Byrne, Mrs. H. Silverwood, Nellie Torrence, Mrs. H. Beaman; middle, 
Mrs. Fanny Cogan, Mrs. Kountz. Mrs. A. Gardner, Mrs. W. Hanrahan, Mrs. Jack Glynn; 
front, Carrie Petrik, May Hanrahan, Lizzie Kelley, Ethel Mallory, Eva Cogan.]

Page 8
to wake up in the morning and find that Tyndall contained one more business 
house than when they retired the night previous.
				-Feb. 11, 1882

A.  J. Cogan was in the city last Tuesday. He said every thing was as it 
should be in and around that ghost of what was at one time one of the most 
promising towns of the Territory.
					-Nov. 20, 1887

	The old hotel in Bon Homme was one of the places moved (from Bon Homme to 
Tyndall) and is still today put to very good use, being the home of the Harold 
Hoffman family. Prior to that it had been the home of Mrs. Anton Chastka, and 
is located on West Pearl three houses south of Lawler. This home is steeped in 
the romance of the pioneer days. Mrs. Bridget Cogan, who owned and operated the 
hotel was one of the most rugged and inspiring of the pioneers, and was known as 
a wonderful hostess to travelers and as a friend to the Indians who named her 
Tonka Waseche Utah Tape (the big white woman who keeps the eating house). Upon the 
removal of the county seat, Mrs. Cogan closed her hotel, and took up residence in 
Tyndall, where she spent the rest of her life.

(3)  The Railroad Its Growth and Decline

[photo - Fighting snow near Tyndall in early 1915]

	Tyndall was first and foremost a railroad town. It was born because of the 
railroad, grew because of it, and now after one hundred years, ironically is faced 
with the very real prospect of its loss. A letter asking for historical information 
was sent late in 1918 to the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad 
Company and Jim Scribbins, Communications Resources Manager, replied as follows:

	It is sincerely hoped the information contained in this letter will provide 
you with a reasonable account of the Milwaukee Road and its history in Tyndall. The 
first route through Tyndall was constructed in 1879 by the Chicago, Milwaukee and 
St. Paul, as our company was then known, and extended from Marion Junction to Running 
Water.

	An undated letter written probably in 1931 by a retired employee who had been 
a conductor assigned to construction trains at various locations on the Iowa and 
Dakota division mentions some of the earliest operation on this branch.

page 9

	He says, "I was hauling material for the construction crew when, six miles 
west of Marion Junction, we received a rush order to hurry the work because the 
company had secured a big shipment of Texas steers which had been grazing on the 
Nebraska side across from Running Water. The track was laid directly onto the grade 
with very little surfacing done except on the worst places, and I should judge that 
in approximately 80 days the track was extended into Running Water. There were 
several train-loads of steers in this shipment which was considered a big bunch 
of business for this branch.

	"Late in the fall of '79 there was mixed (freight and passenger) train put 
on, and it was all the regular service on the branch for some time. As I remember 
it, that initial shipment of stock was the biggest event the Running Water line 
ever enjoyed. During the Winter of '79 and early '80, we stored freight to go 
up-river as early in the Spring as possible."

	The reference to river steamers was confirmed by the current issue of 
Journal of the West which states that upon completion of the line into Running 
Water, steamers began operating north to Fort Pierre. Running Water was designated 
as the official shipping point for government supplies destined to upper Missouri 
River points. In 1881, the main line of our Iowa and Dakota division had arrived in 
Chamberlain, effectively ending this activity for the Running Water branch.

	I can outline our "passenger train" service between Marion Junction and Running 
Water, commencing in 1886 - the earliest year for which we retain timetables. A 
single train in each direction Monday through Saturday required five hours to 
negotiate the 62 miles; and this schedule prevailed at least through 1900. These 
trains were undoubtedly "mixed"; that is, combination freight and passenger 
trains. In 1905, the mixed trains required 30 minutes longer for their trip; but 
an additional complete passenger train was added making a Tyndall-Marion Junction 
round trip in but half the previous time. In 1910, the passenger train operated 
the entire line and made a one-way journey in three hours, compared to six hours 
for the mixed.

	Within three years, however, both mixed train and passenger train service began 
to be curtailed somewhat, at one time or another being reduced either in distance or in 
frequency or both. The portion of the line between Springfield and Running Water was 
abandoned in 1930, by which time service consisted of a single mixed train six days 
a week. Through service from Marion Junction ceased in March, 1933, and only a 
Tyndall-Springfield freight train was scheduled Monday- Wednesday - Friday, and that 
was by means of a side-trip performed by the Yankton-Platte freight train. On the 
north end of the branch there was service performed by a Marion Junction-Scotland 
freight Any would-be passengers were carried in the caboose. The 11.6 miles between 
Tyndall and Scotland were abandoned in November, 1936.

	Through at least 1945, it was possible to travel by freight train Tyndall-
Springfield as mentioned, but by January, 1950, that portion of the line was simply 
listed in the time folder as having freight service only, no longer carrying passengers. 
In September, 1965, the 5.5 miles between Kingsburg and Springfield were abandoned, as 
were the six miles Springfield-Tyndall in July, 1971.

	The existing 82 miles of branch between Napa (six miles west of Yankton) and Platte 
were constructed in 1900 by Chicago, Milwaukee and St Paul and intersected the Running 
Water branch at Tyndall. As I am certain you are aware, application for abandonment of 
this branch is now pending (Dec. 7,1918) before the Interstate commerce Commission. 
This line was open as far as Wagner by October 1, 1900, with a train requiring 4 1/2 
hours to travel 52 miles from Yankton; and a month later opened to Platte with the trip 
taking 8 hours and 20 minutes. I will mention that Platte line trains have always 
operated from and to Yankton. Tyndall was listed as a lunch stop for these early trains. 
By 1905, this mixed train had been quickened to a 6 hour 15 minute schedule, and a 
Yankton-Tyndall passenger train made the run in 1 hour and 10 minutes.

	In 1910, there was one Yankton-Platte passenger train in each direction 
scheduled at 3 hours 40 minutes; and five years thereafter there was again a mixed 
train as well as a passenger. At least some of the time, the mixed train rather 
than coming direct from Napa remained on the Sioux City and Dakota division mainline 
to Scotland, thence using the Running Water branch to Tyndall, and on to Platte.

	The next change occurred in 1930 when a self-propelled motor train replaced 
the steam-powered passenger train with the added advantage of operating between Sioux 
City and Platte. At that same time, the existing mixed trains were reduced to the 
status of a freight train that would carry passengers in its caboose. The motor train, 
by the way, was approximately one-half hour faster than the one drawn by steam locomotive.

	In 1935, the freight train (or at least its passenger-carrying trips) were reduced 
to Monday - Wednesday - Friday westbound, and returning from Platte the following days, 
while the motor train was changed to a Yankton-Platte operation. This scheme of operation 
remained in effect until 1950 when the freight train no longer accepted passengers.

	The final trip of the Yankton-Platte passenger train was Jan. 8, 1951.

[photo - In 1925 the water tank which provided the steam for the 
railroad was located north of the depot 
near the Old Mill.]

[photo - Mike Beck, water tender for the CMSP RR in 1925 waits for the 
train.]

page 10

	At no time on either the Running Water or the Platte line was there a Sunday 
passenger train operation.

	In appreciation of your interest I remain,

	Cordially,
	Jim Scribbins
	Communications Resources Manager
	Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad Company

	The railroad looked at Tyndall with ideas of profit and loss in mind. 
Tyndall on the other hand looked at the railroad in an entirely different way. 
From the railroad came the goods its people needed as well as provision for 
transportation to places either too far or too inconvenient for horses. There were 
other uses also, as the Tyndall Tribune reported on Dec. 31,1881:

	Rev. D. B. Nichols of Bon Homme entertained a good audience at the 
depot waiting room last Sabbath.

	Succeeding issues of this paper and other sources recorded the growth and 
decline of the Milwaukee Road, each in a personal way. All news items appearing 
below are taken from the Tyndall Tribune unless otherwise noted.

[photo - Tyndall depot in 1917, Lillian Vavruska, left.]

	Dec. 31,1881: Notwithstanding the fact that Monday was observed as a 
holiday, "Market Day" was well attended. A great many sales were effected and 
considerable money changed hands. An objection is raised by some to holding it 
on Monday. Saturday is the day usually set apart for farmers to come to town.. . 
While at Running Water on Monday we (the editor, S. W. Wilcox) were requested to 
consult the farmers and businessmen of Tyndall and ascertain if Saturday would not 
give more satisfaction. Parties living north of Tyndall could come down on the 
morning train and return in the evening. . . Let there be a general waking up among 
the farmers of this section and with the upbuilding of this enterprise (Market Day) 
will come many more.

	Jan. 1,1882: We would like to impress upon the minds of our readers the 
magnitude of the receipts and shipments from Tyndall during the past eight months 
ending Dec. 31st - 2,122,690 pounds of freight received, and 1,172,554 lbs. were 
shipped from this point. During the same length of time there were tickets sold 
to the amount of $1625.45. How many stations on the Branch can show up a larger 
railroad business? We are indebted to Agent (M. E.) Talcott for the above 
information. The majority of the freight shipped from this point was grain and 
livestock. Cut this item out and show it to the next croaker who intimates that 
the track will be torn up. The Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul company do not own 
or operate 60 miles of better paying road on any of their western lines!

Page 11

[photo - Trouble on the tracks more than 50 years ago.]

	Jan. 21,1882: A new timetable went into effect on the Branch on Sunday 
last. The train from the north is due here at 5:15 a.m., and from the south at 
9:10 p.m. Passengers going east or west on the main line make direct connection at 
Marion Junction, a feature which will be appreciated by all.

	Feb. 11,1882: Two elegant settees now adorn our railroad waiting room.

	Apr. 1, 1882: Several thousand pounds of miscellaneous freight was unloaded 
here on Thursday morning, besides two full car loads of merchandise for our merchants.

	Apr. 15,1882: The Milwaukee company is sinking a large well at this place this 
week. The run from Jon River to Running Water is too great a distance to carry a supply 
of water for the engines and a well at this place was considered necessary. A wind mill 
and water tank will be erected as soon as the well is completed.

	Apr. 15,1882: There were only 50 empty beer kegs on our depot platform Thursday 
evening. They were returned to Milwaukee by Anton Castka. It must be that somebody 
drinks beer in our burg.

	May 6,1882: Passenger traffic is increasing rapidly. The train on the Branch is 
crowded every day. A motley crowd of Hollanders "just over" came in on Thursday 
morning. They looked as if they might enjoy a day in a bathroom.

	Apr. 15,1882: Mrs. Henry Brooks, the milliner, arrived by train and is exhibiting 
her goods to the ladies today. She is accompanied by her sister, Mrs. M. W. Bruce.

	Apr. 15,1882:1. W. Seaman arrived yesterday morning with three car loads of 
fine steers and several yoke of oxen. As soon as he sells this lot, he will go east and 
purchase a large herd which he will drive through.

	Aug. 26,1882: The railroad fare from Tyndall to Sioux Falls during Fair Week is 
$4.75 for the round trip. Tickets good from the 11th to the 16th of September.

	Feb. 18,1892: Postmaster Colburn asks people to stop mailing letters directly on 
the train as with only $20.00 more per quarter (in stamps) the post office would qualify 
to become a presidential office.

	June 9,1892: Between May 1,1891 and Apr. 30,1892, the railroad shipped 580 cars 
of grain and 285 cars of stock.

	June 23,1892: The people of Tyndall and vicinity turned out in large numbers 
Wednesday to attend the G.A.R. (Grand Army of the Republic) reunion at Scotland. The 
one coach furnished by the Milwaukee company was packed so full as to make moving 
about utterly impossible. Two empty freight cars were also filled and many were compelled 
to ride outside on the top of the cars.

	June 30,1892: There will be a special excursion train from Scotland to Tyndall, 
allowing those people in the northern part of the county to attend the 4th of July 
celebration) without being compelled to drive overland. (A later issue reported that 
over 100 people rode the special train into town where they were met at the depot by 
the band.)

	July 28,1892: The train is from two to four hours late nearly every night. This 
causes a great inconvenience to business firms who are desirous of receiving their mail 
in time to reply to all letters that require prompt attention. What is needed is a 
through passenger and mail train, and something should be done...

	May 14,1904, Tyndall Register: The excursion to Platte last Sunday over the 
Milwaukee road was a success in point of numbers. There were two trains, one of 
fourteen coaches and the other of twelve, all well-filled. Both were late and did 
not arrive at their destination until noon. It was a jolly crowd going but a tired 
one returning.

	Spring, 1911, Tyndall Register: The city is grading the street running from 
the depot to the ball grounds. This will not only improve the street, but will drain 
the stock yards which are in a bad condition after a heavy rain.

	July 12,1912, Tyndall Register: The new stockyards near the Y are removed, the 
eastern part of town will present a cleaner appearance, and the residents will draw a 
sigh of relief.

Page 12

	July 10, 1919, Wagner Eagle: (Headline - Milwaukee would be late if it dropped 
from the sky). If all were dynamited up at the same time - it's a safe bet the Milwaukee 
would be from twenty minutes to five hours late. As it is, no one knows just when to 
expect a train, and the force at the depot never know when they are going to eat a 
meal. Perhaps the rails sweat during hot weather and cause the wheels to slip; or the 
train crew stops in the shade out in the country to play poker with the passengers

	Oct 3, 1929, Bon Homme Register: A new motorbus is expected to start a regular 
run on the Platte line the first of next week... the motor and baggage compartment 
will be together and a separate car for passengers will be pulled by the motor bus. 
There was much dissatisfaction with The old arrangement, the noise and excessive 
vibration making travel unpleasant 

	Jubilee Edition, 1954, Tyndall Tribune and Register: A crew of carpenters sent 
out by the C. M. St. P. & P. Railroad Co. began remodeling the Tyndall depot last week. 
The old freight house, a two-story portion of the building, is being dismantled and 
disposed of. The south portion of the building which comprises the office, waiting room, 
and the old original freight house will comprise the overall proportions of the 
remaining building.

	Depot Agent B. L Dwyer explains that the office and waiting room will not be 
changed. That portion of the remaining building at the north end which was at one 
time the office, will serve as freight house.

	Mr. Dwyer recalls the days when the whole south portion of the building now 
comprising the office and waiting room, served as waiting room and was often taxed to 
accommodate the many passengers traveling by rail. The second floor rooms of the depot 
originally housed the depot agent and his family.

	Dimensions of the original building were 90 feet long and 24 feet wide. That 
portion of the building being removed is 42 feet, so that when the building is 
remodeled, the overall length will be 48 feet with the same width of 24 feet.

	As we have seen, the C. M. & St. P. Co. was concerned with profit and loss, 
and the town was concerned with its special needs, but the employees of the Milwaukee 
Road saw the railroad as a profession and a way of life. The first depot agent was said 
to have been M. E. Talcott, and among others were J. J. McDonough, Matt McCormick, 
N. Scanlan, Geo. Meaters and Bernie Dwyer. Following are news items about some of 
the men who worked on the railroad, concluding with the memories of one of the 
railroad wives who still resides in Tyndall. These items are from the Tyndall 
Tribune unless otherwise noted.

	Jan. 28,1882: A new and very important addition to the train force on the 
Branch is the position of express messenger. Charley McNeill is the successful man 
and no better selection could have been made as he is competent, courteous and 
strictly reliable. We congratulate Charles on his good fortune.

Feb.11, 1882: The south bound passenger train met with quite a delay on Tuesday 
morning. While they were switching at this place the engine jumped the track and 
although the boys worked faithfully they were unable to move it An engine was 
telegraphed for which came whirling along about 6 p.m. The train boys were so 
exhausted from loss of sleep and an overdose of work when they arrived at Running 
Water that they did not return until the following evening.

	Apr.15, 1882: John Griffin is now following the profitable occupation 
of "Shacking" on the Branch. He has the signals down "pat."

	Apr. 15,1882: Our telegraph office has received a new key and relay and 
Charlie McNeill is once more a happy man.

	May 6, 1882: The C.M. & St P. R.R. Company want to hire 100 men immediately 
at $1.50 per day to work on the railroad, board $3.50 per week. Pass both ways. Apply 
to M. E. Talcott, agent, Tyndall, D. T.

	And in 1979 Mrs. Ella Beck, Tyndall writes:

	My husband (Mike Beck) started as a section man in 1916 for the Milwaukee 
railroad then as a pumper. His job was to supply and soften the hard Tyndall water 
for the steam engines. Then the trucks took some of the business away from the 
railroad so he had to also shovel coal to supply the steam engines.

	The one advantage working for the railroad was the free pass which we used 
most of the time in summer. We would drive to Sioux City, take the evening train on 
Friday and be in Chicago in the morning. Did some shopping in the morning, then the 
Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field in the afternoon. Sunday to church, then two ball 
games in the afternoon. Took the evening train back to Sioux City and were back at 
work in the morning on Monday.

	Then the diesel engines took over, so Mike started working for the Farm Bureau 
Service Station in 1931, which position he held as manager until he passed away in 1964.

	(Note: Mrs. Beck has. suffered from a kidney disease for several years, and 
for some time has undergone the thrice-weekly agony of dialysis in her home. In 
addition, she has recently submitted to major heart surgery, but her indomitable 
spirit serves her well as she continues to enjoy each day at a time. We thank her 
for her reminiscences-)

[photo - C.M. & S. P. Railway depot today 1979, on Randy Skorpik farm.]

page 13

(4)

The Early Businesses 

	S. W. Wilcox, first editor of the Tyndall Tribune, was one of Tyndall's first 
and biggest promoters along with D.W. Currier and Alois Zienert, principal owners of 
the town lots. In the Vol. 1, No.3 issue of the Tribune dated December 31,1881, Mr. 
Wilcox writes, "When we came to Tyndall, Mr. Currier exhibited his generosity by 
tendering us the use of the building we just vacated free of rent until April 1. 
We found it necessary to get a larger room and more light and moved to Geopfert's 
building. We wish to express our warmest thanks to Mr. Currier for the use of his 
building as well as for the interests in the success of the Tyndall Tribune."

	Through the vehicle of his newspaper, Mr. Wilcox continually urged people to 
come and invest in the town he felt would become "the future metropolis of Bon Homme 
County". The following are excerpts from the early issues of the Tribune and include 
ads from the early businessmen as well as editorial comments.

Tyndall
Good Prospects for its Future Progress
Business Men, Capitalists, Mechanics
AND OTHERS DESIRING TO ESTABLISH A BUSINESS HERE
will be offered special inducements
Parties Desiring any Information Respecting Business
Prospects, Terms of Sale, etc., Will Call on or
Communicate with
D.W. CURRIER, TYNDALL, DAKOTA. 

	Also from the December 31, 1881 Tribune:

	I. W. Seaman-Dealer in horses, cattle, sheep, hogs and grain.

	G. T. Rounds-Proprietor of livery, feed and sale stable. Teams let 
on liberal terms. I also run a feed stable in connection with my livery.

	Rockwell and Morgan-Lumber yard.

	Bouza and Bouska-First class general store.

	A. Zienert-Cash mercantile establishment. Always was and always will be the 
popular trading place for everybody in the county. General merchandise, hardware, tin 
ware, drugs and furniture.

	J. Taggart-New restaurant, apples, cider, nuts, candies, canned goods, 
crackers, cheese, a good lunch, fresh oysters always on hand.

	E.S. Ensign-The Pioneer store of Tyndall, commonly known as the Roose store. 
Buys all grains brought to this market. Ensign and Roose handle agricultural implements.

	Levi A. Haight-Choice fresh meat.

	The Tyndall Hotel-Mrs. M.E. Congleton, Prop. My table is supplied with all the 
delicacies of the season and my beds are neat. Headquarters for all commercial men.

	Gustave Halb and Co.-Dry goods and everything usually found in a 
first-class store.

	Anton Castka-Dealer in liquors and cigars, runs a billiard hall.

	Frank Markley-First class blacksmith and horse-shoer.

	Jacob Sperb-Wagonmaker and general repairer.

	Williams and Blair-We sink wells to a depth of 130 feet, $1.00 per foot when 
we furnish curbing and finish the well, 65 cents per foot for boring alone.

	D.W. Currier-Groceries, drugs, glassware and crockery.

	That Tyndall was growing was evident. In January, 1882, Herbert Goepfert, 
seeing the necessity for a town hall, was planning to commence building one in May 
which would be 34x80 and two stories high. The lower room was to be occupied as 
a store and the entire upper story would serve as a public hall. In February the 
Tribune carried the following item from the Yankton Free Press:

	Tyndall is a village but its growth is permanent. Her people do not believe 
in making a grand parade, but if any one desires to learn of Tyndall, they say they are 
satisfied 

[photo - Mike Schmitt's men's clothing store "Mikehasit" opened in 1922 when the 
Schmitts and Jack McNeill came from Minnesota. In 1925, above, from left, Jack McNeill, 
Hayes Koenig, Mike Schmitt, and traveling man, H. Kiestra. from Nell Schmitt)]

page 14

with her prospect The farmers around Tyndall increased in numbers last year and 
this year many new firms will be opened. The young folks are working hard for a 
start, each one thinking he will provide himself with a home and the old folks 
are willing to aid them as best they can. The best business man is our friend 
Half. His store is always thronged and he sells large quantities of goods. His 
place of business is near the depot. Our friend Zienert has laid out lots 
adjoining his business place where he has a very nice store built He is postmaster 
and gives free box rent to all his patrons.

Alois Zienert

	From the 1954 Jubilee edition of the Tribune and Register comes the following 
information about Alois Zienert which was provided by Hazel Abbott. Alois Zienert had 
since 1872 conducted one of the finest stores in the village of Bon Homme, and 
realizing the value of the land, also became the owner of many acres east of Tyndall 
as well as 50 acres within the townsite. When the railroad came to town, he built 
his first store on the north side, but soon moved to Pearl Street where he operated 
a large and well-equipped store. He sold his store in 1887 when it was established to 
J.W. Sturtevant. At that time his thrift and good sense allowed him to lend money at 
10 percent interest, as well as realize good profit from his seven farms and many 
other buildings and stores.

	After retirement, Mr. Zienert and his wife developed one of their farms into a 
country estate, to become known as Shadelands. It had a fountain supplied with an artesian 
well, lakes stocked with fine fish, and everything possible to make a home modern and 
comfortable. However, the cold Dakota winters and various business interests in 
Wisconsin coaxed the Zienerts to Portage, Wisc., where he became a great banker and 
capitalist, and where they lived until an auto accident claimed them years later.

	In April, 1882, the Tribune observed that, "Emigrants still continue to come. 
The class of settlers who are now coming in have means to push everything they undertake." 
This followed an earlier announcement that said, "the outlook for a crop the coming 
season is very flattering and all seem jubilant. Tyndall has not built up in advance 
of the country surrounding. Trade is drawn from a radius of 15 miles and the enterprise 
exhibited by our dealers in holding this trade is very commendable.

	By June of 1882, cellars were being dug for business places with the dirt then 
used to "grade up" the street. In August, D.W. Currier personally had a force of men 
working to fill up the low places on Pearl without any aid from the citizens, and had 
also built at his own expense a bridge over Emmanuel Creek on the township line. One 
month later he commenced surveying his 80 acre tract on the west side of town, laying 
it off in business and residence lots, his faith in the community being so great that 
he went south to Louisiana to dispose of property there in order to re-invest it in the 
erection of business houses in Tyndall.

	A short two years later in 1884, first mention was made of what for many years 
was to be an unpleasant subject in the city-the slaughter houses. All private parties 
having them were notified to move same outside city limits (City Council Proceedings) 
and the marshall was instructed to build a yard to hold stock running at large, and 
set appropriate fines for the offenders. (First offense for loose cattle or horses 
was 50 cents, sheep and hogs, 25 cents, to be doubled for each additional offense.) 
Levi Haight, butcher, posted a $200.00 bond in 1885 with The promise of "keeping 
clean and inoffensive a slaughterhouse within city limits for business purposes". 
Later that summer,

[photo - Urban Meat Market slaughterhouse, still standing, east Tyndall]

page 15

also according to city council proceedings, a fine of $5.00 was fixed for 
"each and every person watering stock at city well".

	Several new businesses were advertising by the summer of 1882:

	S.C. Conrey-Dealer in agricultural implements and school furniture.

	T. B. Case-Carpenter and builder, Prop. of Tyndall Restaurant and Confectionery Store.

	John Weisser-Handles flour, feed, lime and cement.

	Loesel and Son-Make and repair boots and shoes.

	Chas. Bingman-General draying business.

	D. P. Bradford-Will insure your property, sell your real estate or loan you money.

	Prosser Bros.-Practical plasterers who do fine work.

	M.J. Roose, I.W. Seaman, Half and Co., and Herb Goepfert buy all the corn that comes in.

	Julius Voigt-The Pioneer store of Tyndall, formerly known as the Roose store.

	From A Composite History of the Descendants of Julius and Carolina Voigt by 
Mrs. Ray Voigt, comes the following information: Julius and Carolina Voigt immigrated 
to America in 1872. They lived in Henry Co., Ill., for two years, then in 1874 came 
to Dakota. They were among the earlier pioneers in this area and set up what is believed 
to have been a small general store, and in one corner of the store was an area set aside 
for the post office. This all took place in what is now Tyndall before it was a city some 
15 years before South Dakota became a state. (Contributed by Ted Schwarz)

	From the same source comes information about the Martin Roose whose store was 
among the very first in Tyndall, this in the form of a letter written to Mrs. Olga 
Trevillyan sometime after 1948 by Rebecca Schroder of Makanda, Ill. She writes, 
"My parents were Mr. and Mrs. Martin Roose. They told me I was the first white baby 
girl born in Tyndall, October 10,1880; they said there were other white babies but 
I was the first one born there. Neil Rounds was the first white baby boy born. I 
think the little home where I was born still stands; it was when I left the state.

	"If I remember right, the home for elderly folks (just can't think of the name) 
was formerly the John Kiehlbaugh Sr. ,home facing east and north. (Authors note: The 
first Good Samaritan home was the former Dr. Moore, later Thompson home, and is now 
gone) Well, the one I was born in is right across the street north, facing east and 
south, small one-story house and Mother told me Dr. Moore was the doctor. My Dad told 
me about a small store and in one corner they had a few boxes for mail; they called it 
Tyndall P.O., and many other things."

	In 1881 a home beside Julius Voigt was bought by Martin and Ottilie Roose 
in Tyndall where they lived until 1890. This is probably the home which still stands 
somewhat remodeled on the corner directly west of the Tyndall Carnegie Library.

	Before we leave the '80's, more mention must be made of perhaps the most 
important man of the period, "Uncle Dan Currier", who in 1879 platted the town, 
operated the first drug store, and in the beginning owned as many as fifteen buildings. 
His greatest achievement, however, may have been planning, building and operating 
"the greatest hotel this side of Chicago". The Grand Central was built in the fall 
of 1883, opened to the public on February 28,1884, and was looked

[photo - Early Tyndall businessman, Julius Voigt, and his wife and daughter.]

[photo - Home guard at Grand Central Hotel 1918.]

page 16

upon with awe and wonder. It had cost the builder the immense sum of $8,000 to build 
the commodious 38'x80' building furnished in the latest design.

	In 1976 as a Bicentennial project, Marvin Meyer, Tyndall, wrote the "Story of 
the Tyndall Hotel", from which the following excerpts are taken. Mr. Meyer wrote the 
account as if the hotel itself were speaking.

	"They had a large open house for me in February, 1884, and my first name was 
the "Grand Central Hotel" and I can tell you I lived up to my name. I was the pride 
of Dakota Territory and people said I was the greatest hotel this side of Chicago-now 
that's something to be proud of! Through the years my name has been changed several 
times to conform with the desires of my various owners. After Dan Currier sold me to 
George and Caroline Trumbo, I was known as Trumbo's Tavern and in 1904 I was sold 
to Anna Minier and my name was changed to Minier's Tavern.

	In addition to sleeping rooms for my guests, there was a large and luxurious 
dining room where about fifty guests could be seated at one time. This room has been 
the setting for some "classy" entertaining. People were proud to be able to entertain 
guests in such style as I provided. I also had a room on the south side of my main 
structure known as the "Sample Room" where traveling salesmen could display their wares.

	In my early days traveling salesmen traveled chiefly by train, and to 
accommodate them as well as others who wished to spend a night or two in my 
comfortable rooms, Mrs. Minier, when she was my owner, employed a gentleman to 
meet all four trains and bring the traveler's luggage in a baggage cart. This 
friendly and helpful gentleman was affectionately known as "Uncle Jimmy". The 
same baggage cart, trundled by Uncle Jimmy, transported luggage from me to the 
depot (across the street) when my guests left this city. Oh yes, Uncle Jimmy also 
kept the pot-bellied stove in the lobby supplied with fuel during cold weather 
and he was a willing listener to the tales that were told around that stove. Then 
there was Colonel Morris whom I housed until he got into a friendly brawl and shot 
one of our local citizens. After that he was asked to take up residence in another 
institution at the tax payer's expense!

	About the turn of the century, croquet was one of the games often indulged 
in by my people of all ages. A grassy plot south of me provided a fine place to 
set up the wickets and knock the croquet balls around, but one of my owners didn't 
think much of all that noise so he put a stop to it. I might add that all the noise 
wasn't caused by balls and mallets. Tempers were apt to flare and sometimes things 
got pretty hot.

	I have had my share of activities, some festive, some very sad as the days 
after the blizzard of 1888, when I served as a temporary morgue for the unidentified 
victims of the big blizzard. I also helped with many patriotic endeavors from being 
a voting place to being the Home Guard Center during World War I. On Armistice Day 
back in 1918, November 11 was the date, I did my bit by inviting the guards in 
to warm themselves in my lobby, it being a cold rainy day outside. But in my lobby 
it was cozy and warm, and all were jubilant that the war was really over!

	I've seen a lot of changes in my time, and I've had to change too to keep up 
with the times. My dining room was remodeled into guest rooms, and the sample room 
became a comfortable apartment. When the need for apartments increased and the need 
for rooms decreased, my rooms were converted into apartments. Yes, sir, I've had a 
long and interesting life. And do you know-I still feel like the "Pride of the 
Midwest!"

	Other owners since Mrs. Minier sold the hotel to R.H. Trombley in 1922 were 
Lucille Barber in 1925, Frances Bride in 1951, Leonard Chastka in 1956, Henry 
Peterson and James Trantina in 1970, and the present owner Evelyn Soukup since 1972.

	In 1884, D.W. Currier bought more land and divided it into city lots. As soon 
as he sold a lot, he built another house or a store. He even designated a section of 
town for tenement housing, and soon people were living in some of those East Side 
Tenement Houses.

	Interested in the culture of the community, Dan gave certain lots for the 
building of churches and schools, and even allowed the Tribune free use of one of 
his buildings until they "got a


[photo - Above right: The Grand Central Hotel today, a comfortable apartment home 
owned by the Frank Soukups.]

[photo - Above left: Grand Central Hotel, trees have grown.]

[photo - The Tyndall Tribune in 1906 (recently Beringer's Cafe and now Millie's). 
Purchased by W. L. and R. R. Robinson from their uncle F. P. Glasner in 1903 -  the 
Robinsons lived there for some years.]

page 17

[photo - The T. V. Ptak Lumber Co. in 1917, from left, Joe Horkey, Check 
Bollinger, and T. V. Ptak.]

[photo - Bottom right: Office of T. V. Ptak Lumber Co. with salvaged counters from 
old court house. (Interior today is as much like original as possible) From left, T. V. 
Ptak, Check Bollinger, Emil Ptak.]

start". In 1887 when the town was incorporated, he was made the first mayor. 
Mr. Currier's family also made contributions to the civic and cultural life of 
the village, his wife endearing her-self to many of the young people as a good 
neighbor and friend. His elder daughter, already the wife of Thad Sutliff, was post 
mistress for a time and the younger daughter Edith, her able assistant.

	During the late '80's and '90's however, times were not so kind. It was in 
1897 that the one-time county judge and police justice built a house on State 
Street that for some reason aroused the ire of some of the Tyndall citizens and 
another man built his own home almost up against the windows, duplicating them 
in appearance. The Currier home has gone, but the "duplicate" house remained 
and was the one lived in for many years by Mrs. Wm. McBurney. The city council 
proceedings of April 5,1886, suggested that the $36.00 bill Mr. Currier 
presented for surveying the townsite be allowed but credited to his sidewalk 
tax, and also that the $100.00 paid to him for Currier's Lot 2, Block 38 for 
jail grounds also be credited to sidewalk and town taxes. His daughter then moved 
to Hawarden, Iowa, his health began to fail, and when in 1901 his wife died, 
Dan somehow couldn't carry on with the old spirit. Although he appeared 
occasionally on the scene, from Prescott, Ariz. in 1902 came the sad news that 
Uncle Dan "had ceased his plunging". He was buried by the I.O.O.F. lodge in the 
cemetery west of town. (Most of the above information appeared in the Jubilee 
edition of the Tribune and Register as researched by Hazel Abbott.)

	Several changes were noted in the business community in the '90's. Clark M. 
Young was in 1892 editor of the Tyndall Tribune, at this time an eight column folio 
in its 12th year, and the Tyndall Register edited by H.A. Pike was a 6-page, 6-column 
paper. In the town which now numbered 1200 souls and whose surrounding lands were 
selling for $8 to $12 per acre, new names appeared in the business field as follows:

	Colburn Bros.-Furniture and burial cases

	Dr. Hamlin-Veterinarian.

	Chladek Bros.-Farming implements and hardware. (The brothers Lewis and Frank 
also owned 4000 acres of good improved land, 200 head of cattle, 50 horses, two 
business lots and each had a good residence.)

	Mrs. C.F. George and Mrs. D. E. Maynard-Millinery, dressmaking.

	B.W. Burnett-Photography, artesian wells, farms.

	Dakota House-15-room hotel 1 1/2 blocks from depot. Prop. Mr. Haight 
is owner of a patent for a fire escape simple enough to keep in a grip, and 
also a flour bin sifter called "Climax".

	L. Schwerdtmann and Co.-General merchandise.

	H. Thornber-Shoes, millinery.

	Elmer George-Real estate, $9-$20 per acre.

	L.E. Ellicott-Druggist.

	F.A. Morgan-Lumber.

	John Moser-Merchant.

	Swett and Williams, Lawyers-Equipped with a large fighting law library and 
a new Remington typewriter.

	V.J. Ptak-Clothier.

	J.W. Sturtevant-Dry goods, shoes, carpets, has the only cash register in the city.

	Joe Halva-General store.

	J. D. Elliott-Lawyer.

	Jos Kiehlbaugh-Groceries and general store (came in 1874).

	John Kiehlbaugh-Buggies, wagons, sleighs.

	A.V. Bridgeman-Harness maker and saddler, horse millinery and mule jewelry.

	T.J. Libertin-Tyndall meat market.

	Joseph Setzer-General merchandise, mechanic, harness maker.

	Martin Sykora-Implements.

	Wagner Bros., H.H. and W.W.-Livery and sale stable, 10 good rigs, 60x90' barn 
with an addition 20x40', also buy and sell horses. city dray line.

	Civic societies at this time included the A. F. & A.M.; I.O.O.F.; Knights 
of Pythias; C.S.P.S. Zaboi No.118; Tyndall Alliance; Grand Army of the Republic; 
WRC (Women's Relief Corp).

[photo - Bottom left: Possibly the Kiehlbaugh hardware store, (on auditorium site), 
late 1800's, from Bill Wittmeier.]

page 18

	At least two banks were serving the town. The Bank in Tyndall had been 
established in 1884 and was located on the corner where the present Peschl's 
Market is. In 1892 the owner was J. A. Albright, and L. I. Smith was the manager. 
The Security Bank was even older, having been established in 1879. It was located 
on West Pearl between Main and Cherry, later when the new quarters were built 
across the street, the old business became the city hall and fire department 
headquarters, and in the 1950's a bar. The officers were President F.G. Hale, 
Vice President Jos. Kiehlbaugh, Cashier Jos. Zitka, and on the board of directors 
were J. D. Elliott, Lewis Chladek, J.P. Cooley and Peter Byrne.

	At this time there were five churches active in the community. They were the 
Methodist Episcopal, Presbyterian, German Congregational, Roman Catholic, and 
German Baptist.

	Winter storms were always a problem, especially when the streets were not 
graded and a plan for the disposal of garbage had not yet been devised. Clark M. 
Young, editorialized in the November 10,1892, Tribune, "Large drifts of snow 
obstructed the sidewalks on some of the principle streets. The walk on Broadway 
from the depot as far west as C. H. Stilwill's residence is unsafe in places to 
walk over. Pearl Street is also made the dumping ground for a large amount of the 
dirt, etc., that constantly accumulates in the stores and business houses. One 
of our prominent citizens has said, "Tyndall can boast of having the best streets 
of any town in the county and to keep this street in perfect order, just empty all 
your coal ashes and slops out in the street and allow the wind to blow the dust 
where it pleases."

	Editor Young left three months later to begin a brilliant career at the 
University of Dakota, Vermillion, as Professor in Political Economy, and his 
place as editor was taken over by Jas. K. Dunwoodie. In July of that same year 
the paper was sold to E.H. Benedict and Co.

	The year 1892 was notable for the organization of Tyndall's first Commercial 
Club, 40 members responding to the call, and Jos. Zitka was elected president. Mention 
was made of an effort to secure electricity for the town, and bids for laying sewer 
on the main business street were advertised. Before summer was over, men and teams 
were hard at work grading Pearl and putting in culverts, all of which added greatly 
to the appearance of the street. As a matter of fact, in August the Tribune claimed 
that, "If there is anyone who thinks Tyndall don't get to the front, let them drive 
into town any Saturday afternoon and try to find a hitching post!"

	Tyndall's famous photographer, B.W. Burnett, that summer of 1892 ordered 
175 sq. ft. of plate glass for skylights in his gallery. His granddaughter, Ruth 
Robinson Chastka writes of Mr. Burnett in the 1967 issue of the Bon Homme County Pioneer:

	"B.W. Burnett was born September 24, 1858, near Wysox, Penn. and came to 
Yankton in 1876 where he worked as a miller and cabinet maker. Later he studied 
photography with Louis Janousek. After he married Effie B. Griffith, the daughter 
of a Methodist preacher, he bought the Janousek studio in Tyndall which was 
located on Pearl in the middle of the block west of the

[photo - Myrtle Burnett in the original Burnett gallery about 1895. Taken by the 
large north skylight built into the roof.]

[photo - Below right: The First National Bank came into being in 1906, was located 
in the building which is now Peschl's Market, moved to its new location in 1909. It 
failed in the 30's, became the Security State Bank in 1932.]

[photo - Above right: Interior of Old Security Bank before fire, Chas. Bohac, 
assistant cashier, Geo. Pfeile, cashier, Helen Byrne (Isaak), secretary.]

[photo - Above left: The brand-new Security Block, 1905, from the 1906 Bon Homme Co. Atlas.]

[photo - Below left: The original Bank of Tyndall building, organized in 1884, became 
First National in 1906, moved across the street in 1909.]

page 19

[photo - The new oil stoves in the Tyndall Hardware: Left, Ollie Trotter, and John W. Flamming]

Grand Central Hotel. The building had a large skylight in its northeast corner 
which furnished the bright daylight necessary to take pictures in those days, and 
the family lived in the rear of the building.

	For the rest of his life, Mr. Burnett was in and out of the photography 
business in Tyndall. Names associated with his business were Bellow, Glassing, 
Unruh, Marek, Wilcox, but he always returned. He was associated with the first 
long distance telephone in the county, first building the Springfield Telephone 
Exchange and later (in late 1900) the Tyndall Telephone Co. The Tyndall Tribune 
of December 6,1900, says, "The switchboard for the new local telephone that is 
being put in by B.W. Burnett has arrived, and the line will soon be in working 
order. Some 75 subscribers have been secured as a starter and this will be 
largely increased as citizens see the benefits derived by putting in private 
phones."

	Although the first switchboard was located in the reception room of the 
photograph gallery, before long the telephone company occupied a building on a 
lot west of the First National Bank building. (The building which today houses 
the Dick Ekern Bottle Shop and Laundromat was for many years the telephone office 
in Tyndall.) Mr. Burnett later sold his Bon Homme County holdings to the Dakota 
Central Telephone Co., and served as the District Manager for a number of years.

	In 1903 the Burnetts purchased a residence on South Pearl. This was a large 
frame house built for Geo. T. Rounds in the summer of 1881 by C.M. Forrest. Much of 
the lumber had been salvaged from the old inn (Cogan Hotel) at Bon Homme. The 
house occupied lots three and four of Block 65, Currier's Addition. In 1907 Mr. 
Burnett added a picture window, enclosed the front porch, and screened a porch on 
the second floor. (This house was later sold to Mrs. Anton Chastka, and is now 
the Harold Hoffman home.)

	The Burnett Photograph Gallery burned the morning of June 18,1906, suspected 
to be the victim of an arsonist. Of the two side-by-side buildings which the family 
owned, the south one with the gallery was sold to M.W. Brooks, and the north one 
with the vacant lot was sold to Annie Kirk who ran her famous restaurant there.

	Before we leave the early 90's, mention must be made of another energetic 
early businessman whose main interest lay in livestock and related industries. This 
enterprising pioneer moved his store from Bon Homme on a cold February night in 
1882, surprising the Tyndall community in the morning with a new business place. 
Immediately afterwards note was made in the paper of a first class warming given 
Seaman's business house. By spring of that year parties wanting stock were urged 
to call on I. W. Seaman and specify grades, size and age. He constantly used the 
railroad to purchase cattle of all types in the east, dispose of them here, and 
purchase more, sometimes even driving them home.

	From the October 16,1930 issue of the Bon Homme Co. Register comes the following:
I. W. Seaman, one time owner of the townsite of Tyndall, was honored at an unusual 
gathering of county pioneers at the home of H.E. Seaman. Reminiscing of his youth, Mr. 
Seaman declared, "I was a good man then. I could make a 13-foot standing jump. I 
could run a hundred yards in 10 flat. I was stronger than most men and could endure 
any hardship, afoot or saddle. I never drank, smoked or chewed in my life, although 
I was constantly associated with the roughest of men."

	Mr. Seaman, who was only 20 when he first landed at Yankton, D. T. in 1860, 
moved to Mitchell from Tyndall in 1892 at the age of 52. The Tribune said in tribute, 
"I.W. is a hustler and the right kind of a citizen to build up a town."

	Another account of I. W. Seaman appeared in the Jubilee edition of the Tribune 
and Register and contained this additional information as researched by Hazel Abbott. I. 
W. Seaman came to Bon Homme County in 1874 with his shoes slung over his shoulder 
"to save 'em from wearin' out". It wasn't long before I. W. owned acres of land, 
houses and other buildings in old Bon Homme, but as soon as Tyndall appeared on the 
map, he moved his buildings up to the north side of town and began selling lots. The 
northwest corner of the townsite became known as the Seaman addition, and at one 
time he sold lots as fast as Currier. That was the time he sent his family off to 
his ranch at Oak Hallow near Tyndall for a rest. Although at one time or another 
he was a livery man, merchant, real estate agent, and sportsman, more than anything 
else he was a cattleman. Even after leaving Tyndall for Mitchell and later Chicago, he 
made annual visits to Tyndall to look after his business and often to sell car loads 
of cattle from one of his productive ranches.

	The years 1895 and 1896 were building years, according to H. A. Pike, editor 
of the Tyndall Register. Two new artesian wells had been built creating an abundance of 
water for domestic uses, fire purposes and garden irrigation. George Lehr's new 
elevator was built, the second of 1896 and now making five as well as a warehouse 
to receive grain. Unfortunately the streets of Tyndall were still in a deplorable 
condition with teams and wagons being mired in the mud in various parts of town-the 
streets said to be even worse than the country roads!

	Several new businesses were now advertising in the Register, including 
Srstka Bros. blacksmith shop and Matt Weisser's general hardware, wagons; buggies and farm 
machinery. Other businesses (including some in the Czech language) included:

	Frank Post Farm Implements (also the celebrated I. X. L. castor machine oil).

	Matt Oliva-General goods.

	Jas. Zieser-Stone mason and bricklayer.

	H.A. Pike and Co.-Real estate.


[photo - The Bouska building built in 1898 by Jim "Philadelphia" 
Bouska.]

page 20

	H. Thornber-Will soon have the basement of his building in shape so that hot 
and cold baths will be furnished the public at reasonable cost. One day in the week 
will be reserved for ladies. A barber shop will also be in connection with the rooms.

	Murray Colburn-(formerly Colburn Bros.) Dealer in furniture, wood and cloth 
burial cases, linings and robes, a fine hearse run in connection.

	A short ad in the March 12, 1898 issue of the Register gave only a hint of the 
capabilities of a multi-faceted businessman. It read, "Tyndall Roller Mills are now 
ready to grind feed, corn meal, rye and graham on short notice. John Bouza." Mr. Bouza 
apparently paid no attention to an item which appeared the following month in Mr. 
Pike's paper which stated, "Before the talk about electric lighting becomes 
materialized into the substance of fact, would it not be the part of good common 
sense to reconstruct and repair the sidewalks, which almost everywhere are in miserable 
condition, speaking eloquently of false economy or reckless disregard of the public 
convenience and safety?" A subsequent item only four months later stated, "Tyndall 
will soon be provided with electric lights. John Bouza telegraphed Tuesday for an 
experienced man to come and put in the plant. The new plant which will be located 
at the mill will be able to furnish 400 lights, although the engine is of much 
greater capacity. It costs $1.50 for the apparatus for each light, and the monthly 
charge will be 50 cents per light thereafter."

	Mr. Bouza was first associated in partnership with Jim "Philadelphia" Bouska 
in a general merchandise store in Tyndall shortly after the town was founded, but the 
partnership dissolved in 1882. (This business was located in the building where Don's 
Clothing is now located.)

	Mr. Bouska then opened a saloon which nicely survived the tough times through 
the prohibition movement of the 80's and 90's. "Philadelphia" (a name he acquired 
because of his frequent use of the word when things went wrong) once cheerfully 
donated $55.00 to the town for entertaining his friends in his saloon on Sunday. 
The two-story brick building with the outside stairway on the southeast corner of 
Pearl and Cherry which he built in 1898 still stands and is the upstairs home 
of Mrs. Jean Wysuph, and the downstairs location of the Lupton L & D Ceramics 
Shop. Mr. Bouska brought up one family, among them Mrs. Antonia Proks, Mrs. 
Vellek, and Mrs. Kaftan. Mrs. Sylvia Janele who lives in Tyndall remembers her 
grandfather "Vaclav" very well. Many people spoke kindly of this pioneering Bohemian.

	In the meantime, John Bouza continued to run the general merchandise store 
and soon became involved with a greater enterprise, the Tyndall Flouring Mills. (This 
firm, later known as the Tyndall Reliable Milling Co., had been built in 1888 for 
$16,000 and was first owned by Knoudle, Troester and Kaul. Its specialty product 
was Red Seal Flour although it milled many products.) In July of 1895 the city 
council proceedings noted that John Bouza had petitioned for the privilege of 
grading Walnut Street in front of the Tyndall Roller Mills. By 1897 he had bought 
a new Corliss engine for that mill, and by 1898, he was mayor of Tyndall. That 
same year he put an electric light plant in his flouring mill for the use of 
his store, and also for the city if they so wished. They did, and John Bouza was 
given credit for bringing "light" to a city of darkness. One of his two sons, John, 
returned home from Chicago as a full-fledged electrician to join him in work at 
the mill. The other, Frank, was in 1903 studying medicine in Nebraska, but being 
a musician of great talent, trained the boys of the Tyndall band during his vacations 
from school. He went on to lead an adventurous life, practicing his chosen 
profession later at White River. Another account credits John, Jr., with great 
musical ability also. This second son was highly respected for his bravery and 
service during World War I for which he had enlisted. Part of his life after the 
war was spent in the Battle Mountain V. A. facility in Hot Springs where he 
later died. Mrs. Bouza and her daughter Emma ran the store when John, Sr., faded 
from the picture. Several years later, according

[photo - Tyndall Flouring Mill, built in 1888, provided first electricity to Tyndall in 1900.]

[photo - The T. V. Ptak Lumber Co. in the early teens: from left, Lodge 
Ptak, Thomas K. Ptak, Frank Bohac, Charley Bohac, T. V. Ptak.]

page 21

to the city council proceedings of August, 1907 it was she who provided the 
electricity for the extra lights (which would run till 5 a.m.) that were needed 
for a celebration. When the city built its own municipal plant in 1910, little 
more was heard of the family electric operation.

	In September of 1935, the city council was discussing means of wrecking the 
Old Mill building. Its foundations may still be seen just east of the John Jochims home.

	The early 1900's saw the first installation of concrete sidewalks, including one 
badly needed to the courthouse square, the telephone, and the inclusion of new names in 
the business directory-the Star restaurant of P.A. Page who also offered meals and 
board, lawyers Elliott and Stilwill and Barney Cole, the Krall brothers who were 
carrying a full line of watches, and Robert Hall now running the tonsorial parlors 
and bath in the basement of the Thornber building. Soon Wm. Metzger's New Emporium (new 
goods, fresh groceries, late styles in hats, etc.) appeared on the scene, and Anton 
Hajek was describing his service as "city dray and express proprietor (good teams 
and wagons and good men conducting them). Mrs. Frances Pletka has the original ledger 
for the dray line her father, Oliver Plumb, and Lem McBurney were running in late 1902. 
Among the many entries neatly entered are several for the Hann Brewing Co. hauling 
"beer to depot" and "beer to storage." Evelyn Curl reports that her father, John J. 
Taplett managed the Gund Brewing Co. located east of the watering trough for a time. 
Could these be the same?

	Civic societies early in the new century included the O.E.S. Elizabeth 
Chapter No.54; the Tyndall Macabee Lodge (all Sir Knights cordially invited); the 
Brotherhood of American Yeoman No. 672; and meeting in the Gissell block, the 
Tyndall Knights of Pythias Lodge No.77, H.L. Taplett K.R.S.

	The firebug, always a threat in the days of lanterns and oil floors, was very 
active in early 1904. The January 30 Register printed the following:

	Again a portion of Tyndall looks black and vacant. The firebug did it. L. 
Schwerdtman and Co. are again the victims of an incendiary. Frank Dite's tailor shop 
and Mrs. Roose's building also destroyed.

	Three months later the fire bell rang again in the morning of April 20, 
and drew a small crowd to the bowling alley of Reiley and Son. The proprietors had 
been oiling the floor and in some manner the oil became ignited.

	The Tyndall businessmen were not to be held back however, and soon mention was 
made of a movement to erect a brick block on the lots swept by the fire, this to cover 
four lots. An opera house would be on the upper floor with the lower floor reserved for 
stores or other business. It was in the spring of 1904 that Mr. L. Chladek began work 
on his new brick building located next to Pechous's on North Pearl. Nick Zieser had 
the contract for the 24x90 foundation but joined up with C. J. Ribble, another stone 
mason for the foundation for the new Methodist Church. Frank Post tore down an old 
machine warehouse in order to erect a new solid concrete building in its stead 
adjoining the north wall of Oliva's store and extending beyond.

	Several business ventures showed up for a time and then disappeared, among them 
a cigar factory and a pop factory. The city council proceedings of June 2,1906, 
listed the assessment of cigar factory, H.L. Taplett, for $120.00. Among the 
recollections shared by Herb (Doc) Jones, now of Kemmerer, Wyo., are memories of 
Jimmy Stanicek rolling and licking the cigars in a building located just south of 
where Mrs. Bea Beringer's newly remodeled home is today. Mention of the cigar factory 
appears again in December, 1910 when the Register said, "James Schema, who conducted 
a shoe shop in Tyndall two years ago is again located in the city. He can be found in 
the building formerly occupied as a cigar factory." Floyd Spohn, local historian and 
owner of Midway Museum 5 miles south of Tyndall, says without a doubt Harry Fuller 
bought the building in 1894 at which time he started the cigar factory.

[photo - Gund Brewing Co., east Main, operated by John J. Taplett, probably around 
the turn of the century.]

[photo - Hogandike's store, 1930: From left, Zeke Matuska, Jess Hogandike, 
Josie Hogandike, Mary Holopirek, Helen Bambas.]

page 22

	According to the Register Milo Kucera purchased the pop factory of Chas. 
Sedlacek in September, 1910, with immediate possession and planned to "improve 
the plant to best deserve the patronage of the public." Two years later in May, 
1912 it was observed that Henry Hokuf was now in charge of the plant which he 
and Rauch of Avon had recently purchased with expectations to put it in 
operation again. Gilbert Colgan, who today lives on the lot two houses west 
of the Catholic Church where the Tyndall Bottling Works was first located, 
remembers it well as he worked there as a young man. His home is built partly 
from the salvage from the plant, in fact he remembers where the three wells were 
which provided the large amount of water needed to make the pop, and the 
cistern as well which provided the soft rain water needed to make ice cream 
which was sold also. The Bottling Works was later moved to the east side of 
Pearl into the building which now houses Mel Winckler's Body Shop. Another source 
says that the original owners may have been Leo Schuett, Mr. Byers, and Frank 
Scoblic, and yet another, J. W. Schaefer.

	By the end of 1910, the new municipal light plant was ready for operation. 
The new structure which cost the city $17,000 was soon serving 125 customers and 
providing not only an all-night street light but also 24-hour water pumping 
instead of the previous five.

	It's true that iron hitching posts and chains were still being authorized 
by the city council on the street east between Oliva's and Bouska's (1908), and 
the mud holes on Main Street had not gotten any smaller, but new and definite 
signs of progress were showing. One was the first Round Oak furnace stove to be 
sold in Tyndall. J.B. Flamming performed this service for Frank Blazek in September 
of 1910 for the price of $70.00 with the promise it would furnish sufficient heat for 
his place.

	Another definite sign of progress, in fact, the dawn of a new business came 
with the announcement in May, 1912 that the McCormick Auto Co. now was selling 
the Buick machine, there being none better on the market. Their garage and repair 
shop, a very commodious one, was located west of the Dakota House. (This fine hotel 
which was built by L. A. Haight in the early 80's was destroyed eventually by a 
ravaging fire which left only two of its many gables. Also known as the Jewel House, it 
was located on Broadway in the locality of the present Ford-Mercury dealership, 
probably on its car display lot.)

	Mrs. H.A. Pike, who had assumed editorship of the Register in 1912 when her 
husband died, found that by 1917 at least one old business had made the change to meet 
the new needs. The paper said, "The Robinson Auto Co. are busy remodeling the stone 
front livery barn and preparing it for a garage. (This is the livery barn where the 
Farm Bureau now stands.) This will give the firm more room and when completed make 
a first class garage." Although the Robinson Co. continued to handle Case tractors, 
the Overlands which they unloaded by the carfull changed their business habits as 
well as those of the other dealers in town who were receiving cars of different makes.

	One of the first evidences of the many gasoline pumps which were soon to be 
installed in town came in the city council proceedings of May 6,1918 when the 
petition of R.M. Radak for a permit for a gasoline pump station in front of his 
place of business was granted. (Location was Lot 1, Block 28, Currier's 1st Add.)

	The first gasoline service station in Tyndall was that one known later as 
the "Little Standard", owned from 1961 by John J. Pletka. It was built in 1920 or 
1921, its 12'x14' original structure costing $2818.14 and the 4'6"x7'6" addition 
built in 1938 another $421.91. Immediate fixtures included gasoline lines and a 
20-barrel underground tank. Mrs. Frances Pletka recalls that it cost more to 
dismantle the building (no buyer could be found) in the late sixties, than 
their original purchase price!

[photo - Bottom right: The Hrachovec and Proks Dodge Garage, from left, Martin Daub, 
Emil Raabe (today Frank Schneider's building)]

[Bottom left: The "Little Standard" built in 1920 or 1921 was Tyndall's first gas 
service station. It was located just south of the hotel on Pearl.]

[photo - Tyndall Hardware (note wooden tub washing machines): From right, Orrie 
Britton, Gus Holberg, Anna Ryan.]

page 23

[photo - The Security Block after the disastrous fire which occurred in extremely 
cold weather, late December 1918.]

[photo - Below right: The Post sisters, Clara and Anna, investigating the ruins 
of the Security Block fire, New Year's eve, 1918.]

[photo - Below left: The Security Block building, "just before the New Year's Eve 
fire in 1918.]

	One of the biggest catastrophes of the late teens was the disastrous fire 
which destroyed the Security Block in the wee hours of New Years Day, 1919. A little 
before three the fire whistle sounded, flames shooting from the rear of Chastka Bros. 
general store having been discovered by a train crew. Chastkas, Hoch's Drug, and the 
post office on the main floor, Dr. Scheffel's dental office, the Knights of Pythias 
lodge, Woodmen and Royal Neighbors on the second floor all lost all their working 
material. Although the Security bank fixtures were nearly all saved, Dr. Klima was 
entirely cleaned out, Anna Ryan's abstract books which she had just purchased of 
B. V. Fletcher, and F. M. Scoblic's law office were a complete wreck. The total 
loss was figured at $200,000 To help out, the city hall was rented out to the 
Security bank for temporary quarters for a minimal rental of $25.00 per month, 
until the block was rebuilt.

	Our next random look into the mirror of local events, the newspaper, 
comes a decade later when we look into the pages of the Bon Homme County Register. 
Although there was a brief attempt to combine the Register of J. W. Bordewyk 
(purchased from Delos Hall in 1927) with the Tribune newly purchased by J. T. 
Trevillyan from Dr. Klima and Attorney C.C. Puckett, both newspapers resumed 
separate publishing for a time.)

	In the late 20's the city was still attempting to prohibit free-running 
chickens, ducks and geese within the city limits as well as the keeping of swine 
in certain portions. Col. Edward Post was advertising his real estate and 
auctioneering services, and J.L. Hoch celebrated his 15th year in business 
(May 4,1929) by giving to his men customers a free John Hornick cigar, to the 
ladies a package of gum, and to the children a Buckeye rootbeer. (J. L. Hoch 
retired from the drug business in 1960, and when his beautiful old home on 
South Pearl burned to the ground, he made his home in the now empty drug store, 
remaining in the community he loved until his death in 1978.)

	Another well known business came to the community in 1928 which served the 
community well through the hard times, especially the farmers who brought in their eggs 
and feathers to trade for tokens and groceries. The Register said on May 17. 
"Rivin Bros. to open general store here. The well-known merchants of Lesterville 
and Scotland have purchased the building which for several years has been occupied 
by the New Way Cleaners, and expect to open a general merchandise establishment here 
within the next few weeks." Attesting to the perils of grocery-retailing, the 
following item appeared in the paper of September 14,1933:

page 24

[photo - Farm Bureau, established 1931, formerly a livery barn, then Robinson Auto garage.]

	Dave Rivin was stung last Saturday by a tarantula while busily engaged 
cutting off a bunch of bananas and was rushed to a physician where the hand was 
treated. A gash was made and the wound profusely bled. Two more tarantulas were 
found on the same bunch.

	Another Jewish family operated a family grocery store in Tyndall at that 
time. Gelfand Bros. was located next to the First National Bank, and many local 
people patronized that store as well as all the local businesses, people doing 
almost all of their shopping locally in those days.

	It was in 1930 that the first paving of streets was done, but not before 
the city council took steps to see that all streets would have gravel. This had 
been much needed as Tyndall had allowed itself to lag far behind other towns 
in that respect. The five-block paving project was celebrated by a free pavement 
dance on October 3 to celebrate the town's most recent progressive step. 
The following summer the State Highway Commission designated the road through 
town as State Trunk Highway No.50.

	In the spring of 1931, the city council approved a bulk station for the 
Farmers Union by the railroad tracks, and then another Tyndall business began 
its operations. Mr. and Mrs. Warren Curl have contributed the following 
information about the Bon Homme County Farm Bureau Service Company which made 
its first gas delivery May 16,1931.

	In 1931 the company began its operations in Tyndall and surrounding 
area. Frank Reidinger (deceased) owned and operated a garage in the building 
now occupied by the Farmer's Union and he handled the products of the company 
for about two years. The first directors were Dewey Thompson, Frank Monfore, 
Victor Thomas, Denny Murphy, and Bill Flamming. Two years later the business 
was moved to the Charles Curl garage building (now Tyndall Motors). In 1934 
Joe Schanel was hired to remodel the Fred Robinson garage, a former livery 
stable, and in 1936 the business was moved there. Warren Curl was hired as 
manager and tank wagon operator for one month but remained until 1941 when 
he resigned. The present manager is Melroy Hofer, formerly from Yale, S.D. A 
few years ago the company became a member of Farmland Coop Industries.

[photo - W.R. Glenn's harness shop, 1918 Left, W.R. Glenn, Van Kirk, barber 
Bill Busch, Mr. Balvin (barber shop moved temporarily after Security block fire, 1918)]

page 25

[photo - A relief project of the WPA, outdated, but occasionally still in use.]

The Depression

	Miles A. Empey, editor of the Bon Homme County Register heralded the 
depression in this manner in October 1,1931.

	"Local Relief Board organized as per President Hoover's organization 
on Unemployment Relief Directives. L.V. Ausman, H.K. Stilwill and W.G. McCann 
named as members. We all know that in every community there will be those out 
of employment this coming winter. It is through no fault of theirs that they may 
be unable to keep warm, meet their house rent or enjoy the necessities of life. 
Therefore the Unemployment Committee of Tyndall are calling a meeting at the rest 
room to get organized and in shape to help any needy in Tyndall and community. 
This committee is working under the Hoover Unemployment Commission that is 
nation-wide. Every dollar earned in any way by these workers is spent right in 
the community where it is raised. Thus each community is able to look after its 
own people. We have in Tyndall 21 social and fraternal organizations. All these 
have been urged to appoint a committee who are expected to be present Friday 
evening and help perfect the organization. The big work of the organization 
will be to create jobs and get the unemployed and the employer together. Another 
way of contributing individually would be contributions of clothing.

	'Let us all work and stand together and see that no one in Tyndall and 
community suffers on account of the depressive times that are making employment 
hard to procure. We want everyone warm and well fed even though the times are hard."

	By Christmas of 1931, Mrs. H.A. Pike, who was editor of the Register, had 
this to say: "The Christmas tree is in place (middle of intersection) and the colored 
lights strung across the street. Our new electric star at the top of the tree shows 
up nicely and with the windows of the business places lighted, our streets present 
a very pretty appearance. However, owing to the depression, it was decided not to 
have the usual treat and program. Money is scarce and it is feared many unemployed 
may need assistance before the winter is over, hence the decision to save on the 
candy treat and at some future day when times pick up, again resume our holiday treat."

	By August of 1932, the city was without banking facilities and so the assurance 
of the opening of a new bank the first of November was pleasant news. The Security Bank 
building was selected as the best location for the business place. Still in trouble 
the following March, the Security State Bank had however resumed normal operations 
following a ten-day forced closing. The state banks were not restricted as to 
withdrawals, but all bankers were urged to exercise great care so as to prevent 
withdrawals and the possibility of hoarding, which was accompanied by a heavy fine.

	The bank closing forced a special meeting of the city council in October, 
1933, to issue $115,000 in Refunding bonds (115 in number) to take care of present 
defaults and to extend the maturities of the outstanding bonded indebtedness, bonds 
to bear interest at 5 3/4%.

	Earlier that year the government's CCC (Civil Conservation Corps) came into 
being, providing opportunities for many young men for at least something to do. The 
newspaper stated the following:

	-April 13,1933: State quota is 1500 men for service in the government's 
reforestation projects, and many from Tyndall have sent in applications to the county

page 26

auditor, LA. Plumb, relief director for the county. Only unmarried men between 
18-25 who are American citizens or have made application for citizenship may sign 
up for a period of six months at $30.00 per month. Of that sum $22. to $25. must go 
to the dependents, and the remaining $5-$8 will be ample because everything in the 
way of necessities will be furnished gratis.

	Other relief work was the continued graveling and other labor for the county. 
The men were able to get in three and four days work per week, which was a help to 
them and their families. In the meantime the women were allowed room in the southwest 
corner of the basement of the auditorium for sewing for the poor, and there were night 
classes as well. At the end of the year 1933, the total amount spent in the county 
for civil works labor was $13,689 to the 342 workers. Many of these were Tyndall people.

	As late as March 1, 1941, there were still 303 certified W.P.A. cases in the 
county, of which 220 were working at the time. Getting direct county relief during 
the month of January, 1941, were 86 families representing 229 individuals.

	Thankfully those sad days ended and before long, both farmers and businessmen 
were to enter another era, the war years and the prosperity that followed.



(Written especially for the Tyndall Centennial by Shirley B. Griesbach, Springfield)

		SMALL TOWN
	Don't worry about the problems
	Of the city and its crime,
	Or the ills of over-crowding,
	Or the frantic race for time.

	Choose a small town for the interest
	Of the people who live there,
	Sharing in each other's triumphs,
	Encouraging when there's despair.

	In a small town folks are friendly,
	Where you know news travels fast,
	And there's always time for helping
	Any neighbor to the last.

	Cities hold a fascination
	With the thrills that they can give,
	But you're wise to choose a small town
	When you want a place to live.


[photo - An abandoned farm eight miles southeast of Tyndall]

page 27

[photo collage - Multi-businesses         The Burnett Composite, 1890 
($2.50 per business or family)

Top row:

1)	C. M. & S. P. Depot
2)	L.E. Ellicott drug store, 1888, located on W. Pearl between Broadway 
		and Main. (had a swearing parrot)
3)	M.E. Church, 1881
4)	H. Wittmayer Grocery Store, located next to Jos. Kielbaugh store.
5)	Tyndall Flouring Mill, 1888, $16,000, first owned by Knoudle, Troester and 
		Kaul, run by John Bouza, first electric power in Tyndall
6)	N. H. Hopkins store, Pearl Street
7)	Presbyterian Church, 1882
8)	Biersdorf and Burgstahler Meat Market, 1890, later Biersdorf Brothers
9)	Court House 1885-1914

 Second row down:

1)	Joe Stone house, later H.O. Sanford, now James Kniffen
2)	Tyndall School, erected in 1883, burned in 1929
3)	H.F. Henton spectacle shop (torn down when First National Bank built)
4)	Double store owned by J.W. Sturtevant, located on E. Pearl where Coast-
		to-Coast and Sunset Inn are located. A. Zienert built store in 1884.
5)	Street view on Pearl, north from Broadway
6)	Dr. Cotton's Drug Store, W. Pearl between Cherry and Main. Doctor in Tyndall 
		between 1886-1913
7)	C.M. Young home (former editor of Tyndall Tribune) later Trevillyan, now Leo Hisek 

Third row:

1)	J. Van Sommer residence, later Arneson family. "Dyed-in-the-wool" Englishman, 
		taught tennis, artist, (painted picture of Jerusalem in Presb. Church), 
		speaker, teacher.
2)	Moore and Elliott Office, 1888, built by Dr. W.E. Moore, Attorney Elliott, 
		who became a federal judge. West of First National Bank.
3)	Dakota House, built by L. A. Haight in early 80's, later Jewell House, just 
		east of Ford-Mercury Garage.
4)	Interior of Sturtevant store (No.4, 2nd row)
5)	Grand Central Hotel, 1883 by D.W. Currier
6)	Schwerdtman "The Famous" general store
7)	Colburn Bros. furniture store, 1888-1917, E. Pearl between Broadway and Main

Fourth row:

1)	T.H. Abbott home, 1883, near court house
2)	Bouska block. built by James Bouska 1898, Wysuph's present home upstairs, 
		ceramics shop below.
3)	Rounds and Aitchison managed Stone Livery Barn, 1890, fire once burned upper 
		part with loss of horses, now Farm Bureau.
4)	Bank of Tyndall, 1884, became First National in 1906, moved across street. 
		Old bank became feed store, Glassners, now Peschl's Market.
5)	S.M. Cook Livery and Exchange, faced depot, checkered career, fire hazard 
		and razed in 1902 
6)	Sycora Bros. Store, 1886, at upper end of Pearl. Before 1900 Martin Sycora 
		had gone back to farm.
7)	I.W. Seaman home, formerly Mrs. J. Plihal, northeast of court house

Fifth row:

1)	A. C. Seaman home, could be the 1886 dwelling north of Presb. Church
2)	House built by Sheriff Petrie. Later home of Matt Placek, since remodeled, 
		perhaps home of Pletkas, north Tyndall.
3)	C.H. Stilwill home, 1886, then apartments for teachers, built sidewalk to 
		bridge lake to school house.
4)	W.C. Dunlop home, later Wm. Edwards, now John Hajek's home
5)	L.I. Smith home, South Pearl
6)	C.M. Smoyer, 1880's, corner where Bud Janssen's house is now.
7)	C.S.P.S. Hall, Czech Lodge, torn down in 1940's, now location of Emil Trunec home]

page 28

(5) Business Pioneers

Abbott, Thomas H.

	Mr. Abbott who had been a school teacher and carpenter near the town of Bon 
Homme, moved to Tyndall when the town was in its infancy in 1881. He was a member of 
the board of trustees at the time the town was organized, and continued to be a member 
of that body until the town was incorporated. In 1882 he became interested in the 
lumber business in a yard occupying the location now occupied by the Ptak lumber 
yard. The large maple tree growing near the lumber office was planted by him about that 
time. Mr. Abbott occupied many positions of honor and trust during his long residence 
in Tyndall, being a member of the school board which built the first school house (1907-
1909) and the school in 1928, and also oversaw the building of the new court house in 
1914. He was county auditor and also county commissioner. As a carpenter he had part 
in building many buildings in Tyndall, including three dwelling places for himself 
during the 60 years. the Voigt dwelling in the west part of town, the home occupied by 
his son Henry, and the dwelling he occupied at the time of his death.

Biersdorf, Robert

	Robert Biersdorf left his native Germany, going to South America where he made 
his home from 1893-1895, after which he decided to come to Tyndall and join his 
brother, Theodore, who was engaged in the butcher business. During his life he 
followed the butchering business, having learned the work in Germany. The two 
brothers also worked together as livestock dealers and their work along both 
lines was hard to exceed. On June 27,1928, while working around the butcher shop, 
he received a severe injury, which later compelled him to retire from business. 
On June 5, 1929, the Biersdorf brothers sold their business but continued to buy 
and feed livestock. Robert never fully recovered from his fall.

Biersdorf, Theodore

	Mr. Biersdorf conducted a meat market in this community from 1884 until his 
retirement in June 1929. He was of the industrious, frugal and temperate type that 
built so solidly the foundation of civilization in this state. His reputation as 
an honest and plain-spoken character was widespread. Born in Suhl, Germany, 
December 23,1859, he came to America in 1878. He was an expert maker of firearms, 
and worked in that trade for several years before coming to Tyndall in 1884. He 
opened a meat market in a building occupied by Robert Wick (1933), but later 
transferred to the substantial quarters later occupied by the Blachnik market.

Byrne, Peter

	Peter Byrne came to the U.S. in 1851 at age five and to Bon Homme County 
in 1870 where he filed on a pre-emption claim near Tyndall, and later a timber 
claim near Bon Homme. Together with William E. Bardwell, he operated a saw mill 
there for several years. Near the saw mill his son, Frank C. ("C" for centennial) 
was born in 1876 and two daughters followed. The family built a two-story home on 
land Mrs. Byrne had previously filed for a homestead claim and lived there for 
many years. Mr. Byrne was a politician, serving both county and state positions. 
For several years he was president of the Security State Bank in Tyndall. He was 
always a rugged individualist, always finding a way in bad times of which there 
were many to pull himself through financially in his extensive farming and 
livestock enterprises. In 1921 he moved from the family farm to Tyndall with 
his daughter Alberta where he lived until his death in 1931.

	His son, Frank C., married Estella A. Petrik in 1898 after which they farmed 
in the Bon Homme-Tyndall vicinity until 1920 when they moved to Tyndall. After his 
sudden death in 1926, his

[photo - Biersdorf Brothers Meat Market]

[photo - Biersdorf Brothers butcher shop, present Tyndall Hatchery building.]

page 29

wife continued to live in Tyndall until she died in her nineties. Their daughter, 
Helen, widow of Dr. Otto Isaak, still lives in Tyndall during the summer months, 
continuing in winter the practice of going south to MacAllen, Texas, which she 
enjoyed with her sun-loving, golf-loving dentist husband before his death in 1977.

	Mrs. Estella Byrne had this to say about the year that her daughter Helen 
was born. Helen was born in an unplastered house on the Missouri River bottom where 
they fought mud, water and mosquitoes until fall when they moved house and all to 
what is now known as the Gordon McCann place. From there they moved to what is now 
the Wayland Dempster place, and in 1921 to town.

[photo - The Chastka store built in the first  Security block. Joe, Emma Pletka, 
and Steve Srstka. This store burned to the ground New Year's Eve, 1918-19.]

Chastka Family History

	The first Chastka to come to Dakota Territory spelled his name Castka as 
they did in Bohemia where he was born in 1853. Anton Chastka, Sr. first landed 
in New York where he worked as a tailor. Soon after he became a citizen in 1875 
he married Mary A. Oliva, also born in Bohemia in 1856, and who worked in this 
country as a cigar factory worker as she had been trained in the old country.

In 1881 Mr. and Mrs. Chastka and their two children Anton (Tony) and Emal migrated 
to Tyndall where her brother, Matt Oliva, lived. Plans were made at once to open 
a saloon, and by March 1881 Anton had a contract with Ferdinand Cach of Scotland 
for a dwelling place 24x40' with a front room to be used as a bar. In May, Anton 
purchased from Alois Zienert Lot 3, Block 2, where the Chastkas lived for many 
years running the first saloon. This was on a lot just north of where the Catholic 
Church used to be.

	Mary Oliva Chastka worked as a midwife in Tyndall. She was a bright, 
energetic and dependable woman and highly regarded by the early settlers.

	Three other children were born to this union in the 80's, the girls Emma 
and Marie later moving to Oklahoma. Anton Sr. died in 1905, his wife in 1934, and 
son Emal in 1900, and all three are buried in the Czech National Cemetery.

	Joseph (born in 188D and his older brother Tony attended the Tyndall schools. 
Tony worked as a clerk in Schwerdtman's store and Joseph in Metzger's store. With this 
mercantile experience the young men began what was to be over fifty years in 
partnership as "Chastka Bros. General Merchandise Store". They began their enterprise 
with the purchase of the general merchandise store of Wm. Metzger in 1901, but soon 
built the large brick store which burned with a complete loss in the early morning 
of January 1,1919. A New Year's Eve party had been held by a lodge group on the 
second floor of the building. The fire alarm sounded first in the middle of the 
night. It was bitter cold, below-zero weather. The firemen were helpless as the water 
dropped in blocks of ice from the hoses.

	Chastka Brothers met this disaster by making arrangements immediately 
to buy the business of Byers and Schuett in the store next to the First National 
Bank. Here they remained while the present store building (now the Coast to Coast 
store) was rebuilt on the site of the fire. Besides their store, the new brick 
block included the former Post Office, former Security State Bank, Hoch's Drug, 
Tyndall Bakery and the former Hermanek's Clothing Store. Chastka Brothers remained 
there until their retirement in 1952.

	Joseph was a charter member of Elliott Hose Company No.1, and also a member 
of Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Columbus. His wife Anna (Hrachovec) 
and her family had come to Tyndall in 1893 to be near Anna's sister, Mrs. John Bouza. 
Anna was a trained seamstress and many lovely old dresses treasured by Tyndall 
families were made by her. Their sons Leonard and Harold grew up in Tyndall, and 
after college educations at Creighton University, pursued careers in government in 
Washington, D.C. for several years. Leonard and his wife later returned to

page 30

[photo - Businessmen about town: From left, B. Bussey, A. Chastka, C.C. Stoddard, 
Bill Thompson, L. A. Eads, Billy O'Brien]

[photo - William and John W. Flamming and wives going fishing at Rest Haven.]

Tyndall and purchased the hotel which came to be known as the Hotel Chastka. 
Leonard served as mayor until he moved to Oklahoma City where his only son, 
Joseph and family lived. Harold and his wife, Ruth Robinson Chastka, joined 
Leonard in the insurance business in Oklahoma City but later returned to live in 
Washington, D.C. with their son John and daughter, Ruth Anne.

	Anton (Tony) took great interest in civic affairs and in the progress of 
the community. He served as president of the Commercial Club in 1912, as city 
councilman in 1913, as Mayor of Tyndall for a term beginning in 1918, again in 
1932 for two terms, and again in 1938 until 1948, as well as other offices in 
the community. He married Albina Janda in 1918, and their two sons Anthony and 
Ralph grew up in Tyndall. They now live in the Washington, D.C. area with their 
families. Some years after Albina died, Tony married Emma M. Pletka, daughter 
of John J. and Maria Hrachovec Pletka. She had been a clerk in the store from 
1917 to 1934 when they were married. Their daughter, Mary Jo Davenport, is now 
living in Yankton, the only descendant in the Tyndall vicinity.

	After Tony's death in 1954, Emma managed the Hotel Chastka until her death 
in 1967, the elderly residents there finding her a kind and helpful friend and 
listener. She was active in several civic societies in Tyndall but the church 
was her special love. She was a charter member of Holy Rosary Court, National 
Catholic Society of Foresters and served as president for many years until her 
death. She also served the altar society, took part in a church study club, St. 
John Bosco's, and sang in the church choir. Emma's final contribution to Tyndall 
just a few weeks before her death was to write the story history of the city she 
loved for the Bon Homme County Pioneer Association for 1967, in which she included 
these words, "God Bless America and the Pioneers, all of them, of the Community of 
Infinite Opportunities, Tyndall."

Chladek, Alois

	Alois and F.F. Chladek came to Chicago from Sadska, Bohemia in the early 
seventies. Alois found time from his cabinet making there to scout Dakota Territory and 
file a claim near Tabor. After he married he farmed there and with his brother Frank, 
carried on an implement business in Tyndall in the early 80's. By 1888 the business 
was thriving with two car loads of machinery arriving at one time. That year "Lou" 
Chladek, Jr., was born, destined to play a large part as business and sportsman in 
the city. The son of Frank, F.F. Chladek, was the cashier in the Security Bank for 
many years.

	Lou's wife Helen is still very much a fixture of Tyndall today, even though 
she herself is only a few years short of that centennial mark. She lives alone in her 
beautiful home filled with a life time's treasures at the far south end of West 
Pearl. Even before she married Lou, her life was adventurous, as Helen French 
had in 1911 "proved up" a claim in Stanley County, living by herself in that lonely 
county near Phillip where rattlesnakes were common and horseback was the only 
mode of travel. She remarked, "We had a lot of fun. For the first time in my life 
I went to dances where I could dance all night. You see, you didn't dare go home 
while it was dark because you couldn't find the way. Everything looks the same when 
you get out on the prairie, and so we danced until daylight."

The Cole Pioneers

	Sons Bart, Tom, Barney, and Tim, and daughter Bridget(Cogan) lived with their 
mother in an Irish colony in Clarksville, Missouri, during the years of the Civil 
War. Barney was the first to venture

page 31

west, saw Bon Homme, and liked it and soon established the first blacksmith 
(sod) shop in the county in 1867. His sister Bridget soon joined him, establishing 
herself in the hotel business there. By 1869 many laughing, dancing, singing Irish 
soon made the little community a lively settlement. Barney loved entertainment and 
besides holding races of all kinds, called for and played dances in the hotel. 
Studying law all the while, he became in 1872 one of the first pioneer attorneys 
in Bon Homme County.

	Among the families who made up the Irish wagon train from Missouri to 
Bon Homme were the Coles, Mulleagues, Dwyers, Glenns, McDonalds, Donnely, 
Williamson, Richmonds, Berrys.

Cole, John Aloysius and Mary (Benesh)

	John, born April 1,1875, was the oldest boy in his family which came 
to Dakota with the "Irish wagon train". The family homesteaded in 1869 north 
of Bon Homme. John taught school in 1892, attended Yankton College Academy the 
next year, and later attended what was to become Midland College in Freemont, 
Nebr. He then filed a homestead in Charles Mix County, continuing to teach in Bon 
Homme County during the required time to live on the claim. He married Mary Benesh 
in 1902, farmed on the parental farm until 1912 when he moved to the farm 3 miles 
southeast of Tyndall which he lived on until his retirement. In 1946 he was named 
Eminent Farmer of South Dakota. During World War II he and his wife proudly 
displayed a service flag with six stars as all first six sons served. The seventh, 
Basil, was "special" to his family, and remained with his parents the rest of 
their lives. He resides today at the Good Samaritan Home in Tyndall.

The Curls

	John Watson Curl, descendant of Quakers who lived in Pennsylvania in the 
middle 1700's, came to Dakota Territory in 1871 accompanied by his wife and son, 
Clarence, to homestead. They arrived by ox team in the fall, cutting wood near 
old Bon Homme to make a living the first winter. His mother and his wife's aunt 
and uncle also filed a claim a few miles southwest of Tyndall, but during the second 
year grasshoppers ate up the crops, so Mr. Curl went to work for the railroad 
and also threshed for the farmers around the county. Being musically inclined, 
he organized a fife and drum corp consisting of himself and several of his six 
sons, of whom Charlie and Bert played the snare drum.

	About 1910 he purchased a merry-go-round which he took to various celebrations 
about the state, shipping by railroad until other transportation became more convenient. 
In 1925, Warren Curl, son of Clarence, went to Crill's Park north of Elk Point to buy 
a ferris wheel which he ran at many celebrations in South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, 
Kansas, and Minnesota for several years before selling it to his uncle, Art, who by 
now owned the merry-go-round, and had formed the Curl Amusement Co. Warren Curl lives 
on a farm seven miles south of Tyndall with his wife, the former Evelyn Taplett.

Elliott, J. D.

	To the members of this community Judge Elliott is still plain "Jim", 
notwithstanding the honors that have fallen on his shoulders in later years. He 
took a keen interest in the early day development of this city. The fire 
department boys especially hold his memory green. He was an active member of the 
company while here, and upon the purchase of new equipment, the company received 
a substantial check from the judge with the request that it be used for "spending 
money". The boys held a social meeting on the proceeds. In the engine house, 
printed in large letters is the name "Elliott Hose Company No.1", the company 
having chosen this name in honor of Judge Elliott, or "Jim" as the older members 
still call him. - June 20,1929

Glasner, William A.

	William Glasner moved to Springfield in 1902, where he worked with his 
brother Frank in publishing a newspaper. He lost his eyesight there in an 
unfortunate accident. Later he conducted a newspaper in Tabor for two years, 
and then moved to Tyndall where for a year (1904) he published the Tyndall 
Tribune. He sold it and for 19 years he operated a restaurant business first 
where the First National Bank building now stands, and later the Corner Grocery 
across the street in which building the family lived (the Peschl's Market 
building). Although blind for many years, he was a man of keen mind and a 
fine conversationalist.

Hajek, Anton

	Born in Rencovin, Bohemia, Anton Hajek came to America when a young man. 
He married Anna Bouza of Tyndall in 1887, to which town they moved in 1895, and 
where they resided since. Being of an industrious nature, he was always busy. 
He was city drayman, engaged in farming and had a threshing machine whereby 
he helped many farmers in this vicinity to care for their grain. He was adept 
as a carpenter and house mover. During the early hours of his life in 
Tyndall he was reporter for the Dakoty Pokrok, published at Omaha, a Bohemian 
language paper enjoyed by many local subscribers who enjoyed his news of Tyndall 
and vicinity. During his 45 years residence in our city, Mr. Hajek made many 
friends, was of a friendly disposition and a man who could tell early day 
stories in an interesting manner. All enjoyed his conversations, as he was 
honest and upright in all his dealings. (Obituary, January, 1936)

[photo - Below: Anton Hajek moving equipment at work.]

[photo  - Flamming family: John W., left, Baby Rose (died at 18), May (Reynolds)]

[photo - Above: Anton Hajek house-moving service.]

page 32

Kiehlbaugh, Joe

	The Joe Kiehlbaugh family were among those Germans who refused to live under 
the Russian yoke after being threatened with conscription after having been promised 
freedom. Like other Germans who had enjoyed that freedom in the southern Russian 
villages which they had built and in which they had lived after leaving Germany, 
they came to America in 1874 to escape the draft. The sons Joseph Jr., John and 
Henry settled in the Clear Lake area where they enjoyed the hunting and fishing. 
However, when Tyndall was established, Joseph Sr. went into partnership with 
Gustave Halb in the general merchandise store, and soon moved into town with his 
family. He soon went into business for himself in a frame building but in 1899 
he built the "brown stone front" which still stands today, now occupied by 
Maureen's Dress shop. Although a fire broke out next door in 1901, the almost 
fire proof store saved the town from going up in flames. A quiet man of integrity, 
the man who had ruled over 17 villages in Russia described his store simply, 
"Mr. Joseph Kiehlbaugh has a general store which suits our people."

	The frame building first operated as a store by Joe Kiehlbaugh may have 
been located on the property that is now the auditorium site, and his brother 
John was said to have had a hardware store next to it. They each built their 
homes across the street, John on the north corner of the block (now occupied by 
Mr. and Mrs. Bill Wittmeier) and Joe on the south end of the block (formerly the 
home of Mrs. August Houk and recently razed to become part of the beautifully 
landscaped lawn of Mr. and Mrs. Dick Mudder).

Koenig, August

The life of August Koenig of Tyndall illustrates what may be accomplished in 
the land of freedom by one who comes as a stranger to our shores but is possessed 
of the attributes of thrift, industry and sterling honesty. He was born 
November 2, 1845 in the city of Mainz, on the Rhine, his parents being John and 
Susan (Hoffmann) Koenig, who were lifelong residents of Germany.

	August Koenig passed his boyhood and youth in his native city and there he 
learned the stonecutter's and mason's trade. In 1864, not liking the idea of losing 
three years of his life serving in the army, he made his escape in a boat down the 
Rhine as far as Cologne and with six companions crossed the border into Belgium 
and embarked at Antwerp in a sailing vessel bound for New York. Having purchased 
a ticket through to Chicago, he proceeded at once to that city where he 
secured employment at his trade at good wages. In the spring of 1876 he made 
a prospecting trip as far west as Bon Homme County, Dakota Territory and in 
1880 purchased 480 acres of land in Albion township, four miles southwest of 
Tyndall, to which he added from time to time until his ranch contained 1440 acres 
devoted to the raising of grain and stock. For many years he shipped cattle and 
hogs, often disposing of ten or twelve carloads during the season, the ready money 
at his command making it possible to purchase and ship even during the dry years.

	Mr. Koenig was married in Ackley, Iowa, in 1870 to Miss Caroline Minow, 
and they had five children: Louis, Clara (Biersdorf), Elizabeth (Bussey), Johan 
and Emil. All became well established in life and an honor to their parents and a 
credit to the state in which they lived.

	Mr. Koenig took a very active and influential part in public affairs and was 
thrice elected on the Democratic ticket to represent this district in the state 
legislature, although normally it gave a majority of from 300 to 400 to the 
opposing party. He served during the sessions from 1891-1895 and again during 
1903. His official record is a credit to himself and the district which he 
represented, for he left office as he entered it-with the entire confidence of 
those he represented. He and his family were members of the German Lutheran Church 
and he was also identified with the Knights of Pythias, and at one time was on 
Odd Fellow.

	When the family first came to Bon Homme County, Mr. Koenig built a log house 
in which the family resided until a few years later when it was replaced by a good 
frame residence. By the time they left the farm, he had one of the best improved 
places in the county. Stables had room to accommodate 24 head of horses, while 
180 head of cattle found ample shelter in buildings provided for them. Sheds for 
machinery, cribs, and a granary completed the equipment of this model farm.

	"To be rounding out a well spent life such as Mr. and Mrs. Koenig are doing, 
to have peace and plenty on the journey through, and to feel and know that one's 
neighbors hold them in the highest esteem is to have attained the best that may 
be enjoyed by pilgrims on life's journey," was the tribute paid to this pioneer 
couple in the History of Dakota Territory, Vol. IV, by George W. Kingsbury, 1915, 
from which this information is taken.

The McBurney Family

	When the Milwaukee railroad extended its lines through Bon Homme County 
it crossed through the present site of Tyndall. The village was platted in part 
on the homestead of William Miller. The youngest of the three Miller daughters 
married William McBurney, and they settled in Tyndall. They had met at Dakota 
Wesleyan University. Their two children, Laura and Howard, spent their childhood in 
Tyndall and were graduated from Tyndall High School.

	The Consumer's Supply Company was established as a grain and feed store by 
William Miller in the very early days of Tyndall. William McBurney was taken into the 
business and continued with it as owner and manager throughout his adult life. His 
daughter, Laura, married a local boy, Leon Serr, and Leon was taken into the 
business. Leon survived Mr. McBurney and managed this

[photo - Anton Hajek, left]

[photo - August Koenig, farmer, politician]

page 33

[photo - McBurney home, north of St. Michael's, now Rick Klawiter's]


"family" business for many years.

	Howard McBurney (who contributed this information) has been away from Tyndall 
since his high school graduation. He says, "My early memories of Tyndall before 
automobiles, radio and television include muddy streets, four passenger trains 
a day (two on the "Platte line" and two on the "Running Water line"), Indian 
encampments on Emanuel Creek west of town, trapping and hunting and a rewarding 
high school education.

	"I am now retired as Professor and Dean Emeritus from Northwestern 
University in Evanston-Chicago, Illinois. We now live in a beautiful little village 
in the mountains of western North Carolina. It may be relevant here to note that 
my professional career was given early direction and impetus by men of extraordinary 
ability and dedication with whom I had close associations in Tyndall well over a half 
century ago - Reverend Lloyd Rising, Oscar Phillips (Superintendent of the high 
school) and Principal Harold Card."

	A note from Mrs. Lois Souhrada, Vermillion, who was familiar with the McBurney 
family, gives this added information. Mrs. McBurney, mother of Laura and Howard, died 
quite young and some years later Mr. McBurney married Adelle Merrill who came to 
Tyndall when she was hired to teach the second grade in the school system. The family 
contributed much to the education, business and religious facets of life in Tyndall 
during their lives.

	The Serr family itself appeared upon the scene in the early seventies when a 
mother migrated from Russia with her large family of children after the death of her 
husband. The name of Serr was in the business life of the community for the next 
three generations, namely: August, Leon, and Maynard. (Maynard moved away when 
Consumers Supply Co. sold out to the Coop in 1954.

Miller, Mr. and Mrs. William

	In 1877 Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Miller came to Bon Homme County with their family 
after having lived in Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin. During their first winter 
they lived in a sod shanty with its leaky roof, suffering all the hardships of the 
pioneers of those days, but the next spring Mr. Miller built a frame house on the 
edge of town in the southwest corner which in 1954 still stood. (-1954 Jubilee edition, 
Tribune and Register) Their homestead claim was the land behind the Chladek, 
Anolda Post, Al Wacker, etc., properties. When the railroad came, Mr. Miller sold 
a portion of his land to D.W. Currier who straightway cut it up into town lots. 
His daughter Mattie had the distinction of being the oldest pupil in the first school 
in Tyndall where she became a distinguished pupil. Later she taught, first in the country 
where she was caught during the great blizzard and had the good sense to keep her 
children with her in the schoolhouse during the long stormy night, and later in the 
town school. She became Mrs. Wm. McBurney and with her husband were leaders in the 
educational and cultural life of Tyndall until her death in 1912. Miller Addition and 
Miller Street, which are located to the south of the school were named for Wm. Miller.

Morgan, F.A.

	Mr. F.A. Morgan was an outstanding educator, statesman, and businessman. 
He came to Dakota Territory in 1879 from Wisconsin with ample experience in 
education and was made county treasurer. He also held other political positions 
in the city and county as well as being mayor in the 20's. Although he owned many 
acres of land, the lumber business he founded in 1879 was his first and last concern. 
It was the first retail lumber business in Bon Homme County and his name was 
associated with it for some years after his death in 1925 when the management 
shifted to his ____ law, H.K. Stilwill and his nephew Charles Morgan. This business 
is now Fullerton Lumber.)

	He and his wife, the beautiful widow Mrs. Catherine Griffith McAuley of 
Springfield, with her two daughters and a third of their own played a large part 
in the social life of the town, often

[photo - Mrs. McBurney, long-time 2nd grade teacher in Tyndall Public 
school, Jubilee celebration, 1954.]

page 34

hosting social activities for the young people of the day. Mr. Morgan was rated an 
outstanding speaker and always delivered the speech on Memorial Day, few once having 
heard his "Logan's Orders" able to forget the golden tones and the effective delivery 
of that address and many others.

Nedved, A.S.

	Resident of Tyndall for many years before his death, A. S. Nedved would 
tell of the terrible three-day blizzard during his family's first winter in Dakota 
in 1869 when he was but eight years old. Mules were taken into the log cabin with 
the family to keep from perishing. Mr. Nedved's father, Frank, Daniel Cap, and 
Anton Pechan were the first three Bohemian families to settle in the territory 
between Yankton and Tyndall in what was known as the Lakeport area. First Bohemian 
Catholic services in the country were held in the Nedved cabin. At the time of the 
Tyndall jubilee celebration in 1954 Mr. and Mrs. Nedved were the longest married 
couple in South Dakota having been married 70 years. It was a common sight to see 
them driving around town in the immaculately kept-up Dodge touring car with the 
handsome windmill propeller ornament on the hood, of which the couple were so proud.

Oliva, Matt

	It was at the suggestion of Matt Oliva that his sister and her husband, 
the Anton Chastkas, came to Tyndall in 1879. Mr. Oliva and family lived on a 
farm northeast of the town site. He later moved to Tyndall and ran a general 
merchandise store in the spot later occupied by Post Produce as a warehouse. 
His son Joe built a new store on the corner, and the two buildings were known 
as Oliva's. The three daughters of Mr. Oliva who lived in Tyndall were Mrs. John 
Taplett, Mrs. Rothschadl and Mrs. Rose Proks.

Phoenix, Henry B.

	When Tyndall was in its infancy the Phoenix family moved to this city and 
during the early years, Mr. Phoenix taught school in what was known in the 30's as 
the Zolnowski school. He later bought out a furniture and undertaking business 
which he cared for until 1887 when he sold the business to Murray Colburn. He 
continued working for Mr. Colburn as long as he remained in the business. After this 
Mr. Phoenix followed his trade of painting and paperhanging at which he continued to 
work with his son Charles the rest of his life. Mr. Phoenix was truly a Christian man. 
When he came to Tyndall he united with the M. E. church of this city and was a 
consistent and faithful member since 1879. He was one of the first trustees of the 
church and did much to make it what it is today.

Ptak, T. V.

	The original lumber company was purchased by T. V. Ptak and his brother 
Frank from the Fon du Lac Lumber Co. of Madison, Wisc. on September 19,1890, on 
the present site, but the buildings constituted only a small office building, 
a lime and plaster shed, and only an open front shed to house the new supplies of 
lumber. The Ptak brothers continued partnership until about 1907. In the meantime 
they had established lumber yards in Tabor in 1901, and in Avon. Upon dissolution 
of their partnership in 1907, T. V. Ptak took over sole management of the Tyndall 
and Tabor yards and started a new branch at Neiburg, later known as Blaha, and Frank 
Ptak assumed the Avon company. In 1940 when T. V. Ptak celebrated his 50 years in 
the business, his sons Ladimer and Thomas K. took over the business. It became 
known as Ptak Bros. Lumber Co. In 

[photo - T. V. Ptak home, just north of court house]

[photo - Mr. and Mrs. T. V. Ptak and Ladimer, standing, and Thomas K., about 1912]

page 35

1965 Ladimer retired and sold his interest to his brother and at the present time 
the company is known as the Thomas K. Ptak Lumber Co. His second son, Richard, is 
associated with him in the business.

	This family lumber business has furnished lumber for many homes, farm 
buildings and commercial buildings in Bon Homme, Yankton, Hutchinson and Charles 
Mix counties. Many of these buildings remain standing yet and are being used in 
1979.-Contributed by Thomas K. Ptak, 1979

	About one mile west of the big Tabor curve where Highway 50 turns 
directly east toward Yankton and a little north on a country road lies a peaceful 
country cemetery bearing the name Ptakov Narodni Hrbitov. This family cemetery is 
bounded by wind-caressed pine trees which along with a slightly ailing link fence 
mark its ample boundaries. At one time when the Ptaks first came to Dakota Territory, 
they lived not far away and found solace in having so near such a peaceful place 
for their loved ones when they died. Others too are buried there, including one 
Frank Petrik, grandfather of the author.

Ptak, V.J.

	Mr. V.J. Ptak bought his home in 1885, while it was located on the spot on 
which he later built his new business place. He moved the house over onto the next 
street, and it is now the Petrik Funeral Home. He built the new store in the year 
1893. He and his son Emil had a clothing store in this building for many years. It 
was in 1950 the home of the DeLux Cleaners.

The Richmond Family

	Rev. John P. Richmond was a missionary among the Indians, and was more 
familiarly known as "Old Doc," yanking teeth at $1.00 a pull in Bon Homme during 
the 70's where he also took care of the sick. He had two sons and a daughter. 
Oregon (so named because he was born on a man-of-war near the coast of Oregon) 
studied medicine in Louisiana, edited the Bon Homme Democrat with Andy Cogan, later 
a newspaper in Scotland, and was a scientist. While practicing in the county 
(he claimed to be the second doctor in the county), Oregon named our town Tyndall 
after John Tyndall, great British physicist and scientist of the 19th century. 
During the blizzard of 1888, it took Mr. Richmond half a day to go from his 
office to his home in the north part of town. He later practiced medicine in 
Chicago. Frances, a captain in the Civil War, was county superintendent and teacher, 
lived on his claim on the east side of town. The daughter, America, was the first 
teacher in the town of Tyndall, later became Mrs. J.P. Serr, living in Rapid 
City in 1954.

Robinson, Wm. James

	Mr. Robinson was born November 14, 1854 in Delaware Co., Iowa. The educator 
and Methodist minister and his wife, Emma Glasner, moved to a farm near Kingsburg 
in 1891 with their four sons. In 1902 Mr. Robinson bought the Clarion in Avon, 
his sons W. L. and R. R. acquired the Tyndall Tribune from their uncle, F. P. Glasner, 
who at that time also published the Springfield Times. W. J. was elected county 
superintendent of schools in 1894 and 1896, became postmaster at Avon in 1903, 
continued in politics and teaching, and retired to Arkansas where he died in 1933.

Robinson, Myrtle Burnett

	Before Myrtle Burnett was married she, being very musically talented in 
piano, organ and voice, furnished appropriate music for the first motion pictures 
in Tyndall. She would improvise in the dark as the movie plot developed in the 
theater owned at that time by the Lower family. When she and W. L. Robinson were 
married, they made their home in the Tyndall Tribune building in an apartment 
behind the newspaper office. The east yard of the property facing the railroad 
tracks became a beautifully fenced and tree-shaded garden where pansies, roses 
and sweet peas were seasonal shows. The top floor of the building was leased to 
the Minier Hotel for an annex. Faintly on the east wall could be seen for many 
years the sign painted in 1903, "Robinson Bros. Real Estate." She died in 1950 in 
Washington, D.C. where she had made her home with her daughter Ruth, Mrs. Harold Chastka.

	The building mentioned above was until recently the Beringer Cafe and now 
is Millie's Cafe.

Stilwill, C. H.

	Mr. C. H. Stilwill came to Tyndall with the court house from Bon Homme 
when he was Clerk of Courts. He was a member of the first city council, and 
was the first to construct a high board sidewalk on his property leading to 
the school. He was postmaster for a number of years, and contributed continually 
to the best interests of the community, as did his sons and daughter, Minor, 
Hiram, Hayes and Agnes. His daug