Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 19, Number 54, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 11 March 1898 — Good Words From A Former Resident. [ARTICLE]

Good Words From A Former Resident.

Storm Lake, lowa, Mar. 4th. Editor Republican: The Republican reaches us twice r week and is read with pleasure by parties who at one time lived with some of the first settlers of Jasper Co. We were residents of Rensselaer and adjacent towns for more than 40 years. In looking over the Republican, it brings to our minds fresh remembrances of the past. I well remember the winter of 1875-’76 before we had a railroad to Rensselaer. The mail was carried over land from Francesville by stage, and during the winter the highway became impassable for teams. In order that we should have our mail J. Duvall took the mail sack across lots on foot with -the aid of a largo dog, and made the trip in two days. These are some of the hardships the early settlers had to endure. Now look at the city of Rensselaer with its fine churches, sohool houses, residences and all modern improvements. Also we are told they have the finest Court House in the state of its size. Rensselaer has a warm spot in our hearts and may she ever move forward is our wish.

F. J. SEARS.