CARL WERNOWSKY DIED FRIDAY
After an illness of nine weeks he passed away at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning.
Carl Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872 and came to this country with his parents in 1874 and settled near Petersburg. In the year 1893 he was married to Miss Emma Winkelmann who preceded him in death some eight years ago.
About nine weeks ago, Mr. Wernowsky became ill and five days before his death he was taken to the St. Mary's hospital in Quincy where he passed on away, Friday, Nov. 21, 1924, at the age of 52 years, 8 months, and 22 days.
Thirteen children remain to mourn their loss: Mrs. Elsa Bless, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Ida Barnette and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, Robert, John, James, Theodore, Gladys, Roy, Ray, and Dorothy Wernowsky, New Canton.
The following brothers and sisters also survive: Gusta Reimer and Ida Sullivan, Petersburg; Sophia McGee and Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; and Henry Wernowsky, Pekin. There were also 12 grandchildren.
The remains were brought to the home of Rainey Bless last Saturday and a short funeral service was held there at 10:30 Monday morning, and at the Evangelical church in this city at 11 o'clock conducted by Rev. George Hildebrand.
Interment at Elmwood cemetery.
Source: Greenview Review (no date)
Corrections:
- Charles Wernowsky (spelling of name, corrected Wernowsky throughout article)
- born Feb 1868
- came to USA in 1873
- Emma Winkelmann (corrected spelling)
- 14 children: left out Geraldine.
DEATH RECORD - CHAS. WERNOWSKY.
The death of Charles Wernowsky of New Canton, Ill. occurred at 12:30 o'clock Friday afternoon at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy, according to word received here today.
Mr. Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872. His wife passed away a number of years, leaving him with the following children: Elsie Bless, Greenview; Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Ida Barnett and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Theodore, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters: Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; Henry Wernowsky, Pekin; Sophia McGee, Oakford; Ida Sullivan and Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The body arrived in Lincoln this morning at 8 o'clock and was taken to the Goff funeral home. It will later be removed to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elsie Bless at Greenview, where burial will be made and funeral services are to take place Monday morning at 10:30 o'clock, from the German Lutheran church. Burial will be made in the Elmwood cemetery at Greenview.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 11, 1924 p2c3
FATHER OF 14 CHILDREN DIES
Special to the State Journal. Lincoln, Nov 22. - Charles Wernowsky, New Canton, a former resident of near Greenview, died yesterday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy.
Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Elsie Bliss, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Mrs. Ida Barnette and Mrs. Bessie Beard, Mason City; Mrs. Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Teddie, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home.
Brothers and sisters surviving are: Ernest, Oakford; Henry, Pekin; Mrs. Ida Sullivan and Mrs. Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The remains were brought to Goff funeral home, Lincoln, this morning and later removed to the home of Mrs. Elsie Bliss in Greenview
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, at the German Lutheran church, Rev. Hidebrandt in charge. Interment will take place in the Elmwood cemetery.
source: Illinois State Journal Nov 23, 1924 p5c2
FUNERALS - CHARLES WERNOWSKY
The funeral services for the late Charles Wernowsky, whose body arrived in Lincoln Saturday morning, took place at 10:30 o'clock this morning from the German Lutheran church at Greenview.
Rev. Hildebrandt had charge of the services and burial was made in the Elmwood cemetery. The pallbearers were Newt Parks, Joe Downing, William Folkman, J.W. Mowry, Thomas Corbin and Chas. Madison.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 24, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY FREED CHRISTMAS EVE
Recalls Tragedy That Cost Life of New Canton Girl.
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of new Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
The Wernowsky family have been living on the Rodman and Seymour farm in Adams county for several months.
Pike county people will remember that a year ago at this time, Wernowsky was awaiting trial in the Pike circuit court, having been charged with running down and killing 13-year-old Bessie May Coleman, at New Canton, on March 2, 1923. The State claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through the little town at a high rate of speed striking the Coleman girl as she crossed the street to attend the picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on and out of the village.
With Miss Coleman were Mildred Gard, Catherine Torrey and Mary Jeans. The trial of Wernowsky and Beard opened on Thursday, December 19, and lasted nearly a week. The jury, after being out a day a night, returned a verdict of acquittal and there was great rejoicing among the family and the friends whom Wernowsky had made by his quiet, unassuming disposition.
It was from Wernowsky himself that The Republican learned the verdict. At that time he seemed sad, and always the kindly sad smile of the man will be remembered by those who knew him. It is probable that his trouble worried him and hastened his death. It is said that he seldom left home after the family went there after the trial to spend last Christmas – the last one they were ever to have together.
Charles Wernowsky was of German-Polish descent, having been born only 25 miles from Berlin. He was the father of fifteen children, all living with the exception of one, a daughter, Mrs. Sophia Bale, who died at the age of 18 at the family home in Middletown a few years ago. The oldest living daughter is Mrs. Elsie Bless of Greenview, she is 30. Mrs. Anna Lemme is 28 and lives at Middletown; Ida Barnett, 22, and Mrs. Edna Atherton, 17, reside at Mason City; while Robert, 26; Mrs. Bessie Beard, 18; Theodore, 12; John, 16; James, 15; Geraldine, 14; Gladys, 11; Ray and Roy, twins, 8; and Dorothy, 7, are all at home with the exception of Dorothy, who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wernowsky at Oakford, Ill. It was alleged that Mrs. Wernowsky committed suicide in 1917 because of her husband's drinking, but Wernowsky denied this. He told The Republican that Mrs. Wernowsky had not been quite right for a long time and that the older daughters knew it as well as he did. Her father died in an asylum as did also some of her other relatives.
Wernowsky lived in Menard county for more than 50 years, having been brought there when two years of age. He moved to New Canton only a short time before the tragedy. The family lived on a 336-acre farm near the Sny bridge in Cincinnati township. He seemed devoted to his family.
It will be remembered that Wernowsky was not arrested until five days after Bessie May Coleman was killed. Sheriff Frank Troutner called at his home on March 7. He had been on the lookout for the car and came upon information that led him to believe that the car was owned by Wernowsky. When he asked about a car, Wernowsky showed him a Maxwell. Sheriff Troutner placed Wernowsky under arrest and started to Pittsfield. After they had gone down the road, Wernowsky volunteered the information that he had an old Overland that would not run back in a shed. The sheriff went back and found the car. The top was wired up, there was but one track leading from the shed, the radiator and fender were bent and a spark plug was missing. After various adjustments the car was made to run and was brought to Pittsfield where it was later identified as the car that various persons had met on the road the night Bessie May Coleman was killed.
source: Pike County Republican p1 – Nov 26, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY IS DEAD
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of New Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
Wernowsky was acquitted Christmas eve of last year of the charges of murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Bessie Coleman of New Canton on March 2, 1923. The state claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through New Canton at a high rate of speed, striking the Coleman girl as she was crossing the street at attend a picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on out of the village.
It is said that Wernowsky worried over this trouble, and that it probably hastened his death.
source: Pike County Democrat p2 – Dec 3, 1924
--------------------------------------------------
1880 CENSUS (Petersburg, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
- Township 18 N Range 7 W
Varnosky, Charles (34), Frederika (35), Augusta (11), Karl (10), Ernest (7), Elizabeth (6), and Ida (5); place of Birth is Prussia except for Elizabeth & Ida born in Illinois.
--------------------------------------------------
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
Yanosk, Charles (1845/44), Frederica (1844/55), Henry (1884/15), and Sopha (1887/12); Immigration year: 1872, 28 years, Charles is listed as Naturalized. Charles and Henry are both listed as Farmers.
--------------------------------------------------
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
--------------------------------------------------
Approximately 1902/1903 - moved to Hubly, Menard County
--------------------------------------------------
1910 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Narnonski, Charles (39), Emma (35), Elsa (15), Anna (14), Robert (12), Sophia (10), Ida (8), Elizabeth (5), Edna (3), John (2), Infant (5/12), Immigration Year 1873 (Emma listed as 1889), all children listed as born in Illinois
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
--------------------------------------------------
1920 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Wernowsky: Charles (47), Robert E C (21), Ida F (17), Bessie L (14), Edna M (12), Johnnie H (11), James W (10), Geraldine M (9) Theodore H (7), Gladys H (6), Ray (3 9/12), Roy (3 9/12), Lingy Bale (24 listed as widowed Son-in-law with mom & dad from Kentucky born abt 1896), Charles Marital Status: Widow, Home owned: Rent, Year of Immigration: 1874.
--------------------------------------------------
1923 Nov moved to Pike County (news articles)
After an illness of nine weeks he passed away at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning.
Carl Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872 and came to this country with his parents in 1874 and settled near Petersburg. In the year 1893 he was married to Miss Emma Winkelmann who preceded him in death some eight years ago.
About nine weeks ago, Mr. Wernowsky became ill and five days before his death he was taken to the St. Mary's hospital in Quincy where he passed on away, Friday, Nov. 21, 1924, at the age of 52 years, 8 months, and 22 days.
Thirteen children remain to mourn their loss: Mrs. Elsa Bless, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Ida Barnette and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, Robert, John, James, Theodore, Gladys, Roy, Ray, and Dorothy Wernowsky, New Canton.
The following brothers and sisters also survive: Gusta Reimer and Ida Sullivan, Petersburg; Sophia McGee and Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; and Henry Wernowsky, Pekin. There were also 12 grandchildren.
The remains were brought to the home of Rainey Bless last Saturday and a short funeral service was held there at 10:30 Monday morning, and at the Evangelical church in this city at 11 o'clock conducted by Rev. George Hildebrand.
Interment at Elmwood cemetery.
Source: Greenview Review (no date)
Corrections:
- Charles Wernowsky (spelling of name, corrected Wernowsky throughout article)
- born Feb 1868
- came to USA in 1873
- Emma Winkelmann (corrected spelling)
- 14 children: left out Geraldine.
DEATH RECORD - CHAS. WERNOWSKY.
The death of Charles Wernowsky of New Canton, Ill. occurred at 12:30 o'clock Friday afternoon at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy, according to word received here today.
Mr. Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872. His wife passed away a number of years, leaving him with the following children: Elsie Bless, Greenview; Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Ida Barnett and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Theodore, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters: Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; Henry Wernowsky, Pekin; Sophia McGee, Oakford; Ida Sullivan and Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The body arrived in Lincoln this morning at 8 o'clock and was taken to the Goff funeral home. It will later be removed to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elsie Bless at Greenview, where burial will be made and funeral services are to take place Monday morning at 10:30 o'clock, from the German Lutheran church. Burial will be made in the Elmwood cemetery at Greenview.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 11, 1924 p2c3
FATHER OF 14 CHILDREN DIES
Special to the State Journal. Lincoln, Nov 22. - Charles Wernowsky, New Canton, a former resident of near Greenview, died yesterday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy.
Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Elsie Bliss, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Mrs. Ida Barnette and Mrs. Bessie Beard, Mason City; Mrs. Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Teddie, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home.
Brothers and sisters surviving are: Ernest, Oakford; Henry, Pekin; Mrs. Ida Sullivan and Mrs. Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The remains were brought to Goff funeral home, Lincoln, this morning and later removed to the home of Mrs. Elsie Bliss in Greenview
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, at the German Lutheran church, Rev. Hidebrandt in charge. Interment will take place in the Elmwood cemetery.
source: Illinois State Journal Nov 23, 1924 p5c2
FUNERALS - CHARLES WERNOWSKY
The funeral services for the late Charles Wernowsky, whose body arrived in Lincoln Saturday morning, took place at 10:30 o'clock this morning from the German Lutheran church at Greenview.
Rev. Hildebrandt had charge of the services and burial was made in the Elmwood cemetery. The pallbearers were Newt Parks, Joe Downing, William Folkman, J.W. Mowry, Thomas Corbin and Chas. Madison.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 24, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY FREED CHRISTMAS EVE
Recalls Tragedy That Cost Life of New Canton Girl.
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of new Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
The Wernowsky family have been living on the Rodman and Seymour farm in Adams county for several months.
Pike county people will remember that a year ago at this time, Wernowsky was awaiting trial in the Pike circuit court, having been charged with running down and killing 13-year-old Bessie May Coleman, at New Canton, on March 2, 1923. The State claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through the little town at a high rate of speed striking the Coleman girl as she crossed the street to attend the picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on and out of the village.
With Miss Coleman were Mildred Gard, Catherine Torrey and Mary Jeans. The trial of Wernowsky and Beard opened on Thursday, December 19, and lasted nearly a week. The jury, after being out a day a night, returned a verdict of acquittal and there was great rejoicing among the family and the friends whom Wernowsky had made by his quiet, unassuming disposition.
It was from Wernowsky himself that The Republican learned the verdict. At that time he seemed sad, and always the kindly sad smile of the man will be remembered by those who knew him. It is probable that his trouble worried him and hastened his death. It is said that he seldom left home after the family went there after the trial to spend last Christmas – the last one they were ever to have together.
Charles Wernowsky was of German-Polish descent, having been born only 25 miles from Berlin. He was the father of fifteen children, all living with the exception of one, a daughter, Mrs. Sophia Bale, who died at the age of 18 at the family home in Middletown a few years ago. The oldest living daughter is Mrs. Elsie Bless of Greenview, she is 30. Mrs. Anna Lemme is 28 and lives at Middletown; Ida Barnett, 22, and Mrs. Edna Atherton, 17, reside at Mason City; while Robert, 26; Mrs. Bessie Beard, 18; Theodore, 12; John, 16; James, 15; Geraldine, 14; Gladys, 11; Ray and Roy, twins, 8; and Dorothy, 7, are all at home with the exception of Dorothy, who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wernowsky at Oakford, Ill. It was alleged that Mrs. Wernowsky committed suicide in 1917 because of her husband's drinking, but Wernowsky denied this. He told The Republican that Mrs. Wernowsky had not been quite right for a long time and that the older daughters knew it as well as he did. Her father died in an asylum as did also some of her other relatives.
Wernowsky lived in Menard county for more than 50 years, having been brought there when two years of age. He moved to New Canton only a short time before the tragedy. The family lived on a 336-acre farm near the Sny bridge in Cincinnati township. He seemed devoted to his family.
It will be remembered that Wernowsky was not arrested until five days after Bessie May Coleman was killed. Sheriff Frank Troutner called at his home on March 7. He had been on the lookout for the car and came upon information that led him to believe that the car was owned by Wernowsky. When he asked about a car, Wernowsky showed him a Maxwell. Sheriff Troutner placed Wernowsky under arrest and started to Pittsfield. After they had gone down the road, Wernowsky volunteered the information that he had an old Overland that would not run back in a shed. The sheriff went back and found the car. The top was wired up, there was but one track leading from the shed, the radiator and fender were bent and a spark plug was missing. After various adjustments the car was made to run and was brought to Pittsfield where it was later identified as the car that various persons had met on the road the night Bessie May Coleman was killed.
source: Pike County Republican p1 – Nov 26, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY IS DEAD
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of New Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
Wernowsky was acquitted Christmas eve of last year of the charges of murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Bessie Coleman of New Canton on March 2, 1923. The state claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through New Canton at a high rate of speed, striking the Coleman girl as she was crossing the street at attend a picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on out of the village.
It is said that Wernowsky worried over this trouble, and that it probably hastened his death.
source: Pike County Democrat p2 – Dec 3, 1924
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1880 CENSUS (Petersburg, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
- Township 18 N Range 7 W
Varnosky, Charles (34), Frederika (35), Augusta (11), Karl (10), Ernest (7), Elizabeth (6), and Ida (5); place of Birth is Prussia except for Elizabeth & Ida born in Illinois.
--------------------------------------------------
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
Yanosk, Charles (1845/44), Frederica (1844/55), Henry (1884/15), and Sopha (1887/12); Immigration year: 1872, 28 years, Charles is listed as Naturalized. Charles and Henry are both listed as Farmers.
--------------------------------------------------
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
--------------------------------------------------
Approximately 1902/1903 - moved to Hubly, Menard County
--------------------------------------------------
1910 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Narnonski, Charles (39), Emma (35), Elsa (15), Anna (14), Robert (12), Sophia (10), Ida (8), Elizabeth (5), Edna (3), John (2), Infant (5/12), Immigration Year 1873 (Emma listed as 1889), all children listed as born in Illinois
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
--------------------------------------------------
1920 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Wernowsky: Charles (47), Robert E C (21), Ida F (17), Bessie L (14), Edna M (12), Johnnie H (11), James W (10), Geraldine M (9) Theodore H (7), Gladys H (6), Ray (3 9/12), Roy (3 9/12), Lingy Bale (24 listed as widowed Son-in-law with mom & dad from Kentucky born abt 1896), Charles Marital Status: Widow, Home owned: Rent, Year of Immigration: 1874.
--------------------------------------------------
1923 Nov moved to Pike County (news articles)
CARL WERNOWSKY DIED FRIDAY
After an illness of nine weeks he passed away at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning.
Carl Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872 and came to this country with his parents in 1874 and settled near Petersburg. In the year 1893 he was married to Miss Emma Winkelmann who preceded him in death some eight years ago.
About nine weeks ago, Mr. Wernowsky became ill and five days before his death he was taken to the St. Mary's hospital in Quincy where he passed on away, Friday, Nov. 21, 1924, at the age of 52 years, 8 months, and 22 days.
Thirteen children remain to mourn their loss: Mrs. Elsa Bless, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Ida Barnette and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, Robert, John, James, Theodore, Gladys, Roy, Ray, and Dorothy Wernowsky, New Canton.
The following brothers and sisters also survive: Gusta Reimer and Ida Sullivan, Petersburg; Sophia McGee and Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; and Henry Wernowsky, Pekin. There were also 12 grandchildren.
The remains were brought to the home of Rainey Bless last Saturday and a short funeral service was held there at 10:30 Monday morning, and at the Evangelical church in this city at 11 o'clock conducted by Rev. George Hildebrand.
Interment at Elmwood cemetery.
Source: Greenview Review (no date)
Corrections:
- Charles Wernowsky (spelling of name, corrected Wernowsky throughout article)
- born Feb 1868
- came to USA in 1873
- Emma Winkelmann (corrected spelling)
- 14 children: left out Geraldine.
DEATH RECORD - CHAS. WERNOWSKY.
The death of Charles Wernowsky of New Canton, Ill. occurred at 12:30 o'clock Friday afternoon at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy, according to word received here today.
Mr. Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872. His wife passed away a number of years, leaving him with the following children: Elsie Bless, Greenview; Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Ida Barnett and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Theodore, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters: Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; Henry Wernowsky, Pekin; Sophia McGee, Oakford; Ida Sullivan and Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The body arrived in Lincoln this morning at 8 o'clock and was taken to the Goff funeral home. It will later be removed to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elsie Bless at Greenview, where burial will be made and funeral services are to take place Monday morning at 10:30 o'clock, from the German Lutheran church. Burial will be made in the Elmwood cemetery at Greenview.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 11, 1924 p2c3
FATHER OF 14 CHILDREN DIES
Special to the State Journal. Lincoln, Nov 22. - Charles Wernowsky, New Canton, a former resident of near Greenview, died yesterday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy.
Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Elsie Bliss, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Mrs. Ida Barnette and Mrs. Bessie Beard, Mason City; Mrs. Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Teddie, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home.
Brothers and sisters surviving are: Ernest, Oakford; Henry, Pekin; Mrs. Ida Sullivan and Mrs. Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The remains were brought to Goff funeral home, Lincoln, this morning and later removed to the home of Mrs. Elsie Bliss in Greenview
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, at the German Lutheran church, Rev. Hidebrandt in charge. Interment will take place in the Elmwood cemetery.
source: Illinois State Journal Nov 23, 1924 p5c2
FUNERALS - CHARLES WERNOWSKY
The funeral services for the late Charles Wernowsky, whose body arrived in Lincoln Saturday morning, took place at 10:30 o'clock this morning from the German Lutheran church at Greenview.
Rev. Hildebrandt had charge of the services and burial was made in the Elmwood cemetery. The pallbearers were Newt Parks, Joe Downing, William Folkman, J.W. Mowry, Thomas Corbin and Chas. Madison.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 24, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY FREED CHRISTMAS EVE
Recalls Tragedy That Cost Life of New Canton Girl.
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of new Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
The Wernowsky family have been living on the Rodman and Seymour farm in Adams county for several months.
Pike county people will remember that a year ago at this time, Wernowsky was awaiting trial in the Pike circuit court, having been charged with running down and killing 13-year-old Bessie May Coleman, at New Canton, on March 2, 1923. The State claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through the little town at a high rate of speed striking the Coleman girl as she crossed the street to attend the picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on and out of the village.
With Miss Coleman were Mildred Gard, Catherine Torrey and Mary Jeans. The trial of Wernowsky and Beard opened on Thursday, December 19, and lasted nearly a week. The jury, after being out a day a night, returned a verdict of acquittal and there was great rejoicing among the family and the friends whom Wernowsky had made by his quiet, unassuming disposition.
It was from Wernowsky himself that The Republican learned the verdict. At that time he seemed sad, and always the kindly sad smile of the man will be remembered by those who knew him. It is probable that his trouble worried him and hastened his death. It is said that he seldom left home after the family went there after the trial to spend last Christmas – the last one they were ever to have together.
Charles Wernowsky was of German-Polish descent, having been born only 25 miles from Berlin. He was the father of fifteen children, all living with the exception of one, a daughter, Mrs. Sophia Bale, who died at the age of 18 at the family home in Middletown a few years ago. The oldest living daughter is Mrs. Elsie Bless of Greenview, she is 30. Mrs. Anna Lemme is 28 and lives at Middletown; Ida Barnett, 22, and Mrs. Edna Atherton, 17, reside at Mason City; while Robert, 26; Mrs. Bessie Beard, 18; Theodore, 12; John, 16; James, 15; Geraldine, 14; Gladys, 11; Ray and Roy, twins, 8; and Dorothy, 7, are all at home with the exception of Dorothy, who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wernowsky at Oakford, Ill. It was alleged that Mrs. Wernowsky committed suicide in 1917 because of her husband's drinking, but Wernowsky denied this. He told The Republican that Mrs. Wernowsky had not been quite right for a long time and that the older daughters knew it as well as he did. Her father died in an asylum as did also some of her other relatives.
Wernowsky lived in Menard county for more than 50 years, having been brought there when two years of age. He moved to New Canton only a short time before the tragedy. The family lived on a 336-acre farm near the Sny bridge in Cincinnati township. He seemed devoted to his family.
It will be remembered that Wernowsky was not arrested until five days after Bessie May Coleman was killed. Sheriff Frank Troutner called at his home on March 7. He had been on the lookout for the car and came upon information that led him to believe that the car was owned by Wernowsky. When he asked about a car, Wernowsky showed him a Maxwell. Sheriff Troutner placed Wernowsky under arrest and started to Pittsfield. After they had gone down the road, Wernowsky volunteered the information that he had an old Overland that would not run back in a shed. The sheriff went back and found the car. The top was wired up, there was but one track leading from the shed, the radiator and fender were bent and a spark plug was missing. After various adjustments the car was made to run and was brought to Pittsfield where it was later identified as the car that various persons had met on the road the night Bessie May Coleman was killed.
source: Pike County Republican p1 – Nov 26, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY IS DEAD
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of New Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
Wernowsky was acquitted Christmas eve of last year of the charges of murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Bessie Coleman of New Canton on March 2, 1923. The state claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through New Canton at a high rate of speed, striking the Coleman girl as she was crossing the street at attend a picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on out of the village.
It is said that Wernowsky worried over this trouble, and that it probably hastened his death.
source: Pike County Democrat p2 – Dec 3, 1924
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1880 CENSUS (Petersburg, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
- Township 18 N Range 7 W
Varnosky, Charles (34), Frederika (35), Augusta (11), Karl (10), Ernest (7), Elizabeth (6), and Ida (5); place of Birth is Prussia except for Elizabeth & Ida born in Illinois.
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1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
Yanosk, Charles (1845/44), Frederica (1844/55), Henry (1884/15), and Sopha (1887/12); Immigration year: 1872, 28 years, Charles is listed as Naturalized. Charles and Henry are both listed as Farmers.
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1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
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Approximately 1902/1903 - moved to Hubly, Menard County
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1910 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Narnonski, Charles (39), Emma (35), Elsa (15), Anna (14), Robert (12), Sophia (10), Ida (8), Elizabeth (5), Edna (3), John (2), Infant (5/12), Immigration Year 1873 (Emma listed as 1889), all children listed as born in Illinois
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
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1920 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Wernowsky: Charles (47), Robert E C (21), Ida F (17), Bessie L (14), Edna M (12), Johnnie H (11), James W (10), Geraldine M (9) Theodore H (7), Gladys H (6), Ray (3 9/12), Roy (3 9/12), Lingy Bale (24 listed as widowed Son-in-law with mom & dad from Kentucky born abt 1896), Charles Marital Status: Widow, Home owned: Rent, Year of Immigration: 1874.
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1923 Nov moved to Pike County (news articles)
After an illness of nine weeks he passed away at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning.
Carl Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872 and came to this country with his parents in 1874 and settled near Petersburg. In the year 1893 he was married to Miss Emma Winkelmann who preceded him in death some eight years ago.
About nine weeks ago, Mr. Wernowsky became ill and five days before his death he was taken to the St. Mary's hospital in Quincy where he passed on away, Friday, Nov. 21, 1924, at the age of 52 years, 8 months, and 22 days.
Thirteen children remain to mourn their loss: Mrs. Elsa Bless, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Ida Barnette and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, Robert, John, James, Theodore, Gladys, Roy, Ray, and Dorothy Wernowsky, New Canton.
The following brothers and sisters also survive: Gusta Reimer and Ida Sullivan, Petersburg; Sophia McGee and Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; and Henry Wernowsky, Pekin. There were also 12 grandchildren.
The remains were brought to the home of Rainey Bless last Saturday and a short funeral service was held there at 10:30 Monday morning, and at the Evangelical church in this city at 11 o'clock conducted by Rev. George Hildebrand.
Interment at Elmwood cemetery.
Source: Greenview Review (no date)
Corrections:
- Charles Wernowsky (spelling of name, corrected Wernowsky throughout article)
- born Feb 1868
- came to USA in 1873
- Emma Winkelmann (corrected spelling)
- 14 children: left out Geraldine.
DEATH RECORD - CHAS. WERNOWSKY.
The death of Charles Wernowsky of New Canton, Ill. occurred at 12:30 o'clock Friday afternoon at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy, according to word received here today.
Mr. Wernowsky was born in Germany February 22, 1872. His wife passed away a number of years, leaving him with the following children: Elsie Bless, Greenview; Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Ida Barnett and Bessie Beard, Mason City; Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Theodore, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters: Ernest Wernowsky, Oakford; Henry Wernowsky, Pekin; Sophia McGee, Oakford; Ida Sullivan and Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The body arrived in Lincoln this morning at 8 o'clock and was taken to the Goff funeral home. It will later be removed to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elsie Bless at Greenview, where burial will be made and funeral services are to take place Monday morning at 10:30 o'clock, from the German Lutheran church. Burial will be made in the Elmwood cemetery at Greenview.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 11, 1924 p2c3
FATHER OF 14 CHILDREN DIES
Special to the State Journal. Lincoln, Nov 22. - Charles Wernowsky, New Canton, a former resident of near Greenview, died yesterday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's hospital, Quincy.
Surviving are the following children: Mrs. Elsie Bliss, Greenview; Mrs. Anna Lemme, Middletown; Robert Wernowsky, New Canton; Mrs. Ida Barnette and Mrs. Bessie Beard, Mason City; Mrs. Edna Atherton, New Canton; John, James, Geraldine, Teddie, Gladys, Ray, Roy, and Dorothy, all at home.
Brothers and sisters surviving are: Ernest, Oakford; Henry, Pekin; Mrs. Ida Sullivan and Mrs. Gusta Reimer, Petersburg.
The remains were brought to Goff funeral home, Lincoln, this morning and later removed to the home of Mrs. Elsie Bliss in Greenview
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, at the German Lutheran church, Rev. Hidebrandt in charge. Interment will take place in the Elmwood cemetery.
source: Illinois State Journal Nov 23, 1924 p5c2
FUNERALS - CHARLES WERNOWSKY
The funeral services for the late Charles Wernowsky, whose body arrived in Lincoln Saturday morning, took place at 10:30 o'clock this morning from the German Lutheran church at Greenview.
Rev. Hildebrandt had charge of the services and burial was made in the Elmwood cemetery. The pallbearers were Newt Parks, Joe Downing, William Folkman, J.W. Mowry, Thomas Corbin and Chas. Madison.
source: Lincoln Evening Courier Nov 24, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY FREED CHRISTMAS EVE
Recalls Tragedy That Cost Life of New Canton Girl.
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of new Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
The Wernowsky family have been living on the Rodman and Seymour farm in Adams county for several months.
Pike county people will remember that a year ago at this time, Wernowsky was awaiting trial in the Pike circuit court, having been charged with running down and killing 13-year-old Bessie May Coleman, at New Canton, on March 2, 1923. The State claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through the little town at a high rate of speed striking the Coleman girl as she crossed the street to attend the picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on and out of the village.
With Miss Coleman were Mildred Gard, Catherine Torrey and Mary Jeans. The trial of Wernowsky and Beard opened on Thursday, December 19, and lasted nearly a week. The jury, after being out a day a night, returned a verdict of acquittal and there was great rejoicing among the family and the friends whom Wernowsky had made by his quiet, unassuming disposition.
It was from Wernowsky himself that The Republican learned the verdict. At that time he seemed sad, and always the kindly sad smile of the man will be remembered by those who knew him. It is probable that his trouble worried him and hastened his death. It is said that he seldom left home after the family went there after the trial to spend last Christmas – the last one they were ever to have together.
Charles Wernowsky was of German-Polish descent, having been born only 25 miles from Berlin. He was the father of fifteen children, all living with the exception of one, a daughter, Mrs. Sophia Bale, who died at the age of 18 at the family home in Middletown a few years ago. The oldest living daughter is Mrs. Elsie Bless of Greenview, she is 30. Mrs. Anna Lemme is 28 and lives at Middletown; Ida Barnett, 22, and Mrs. Edna Atherton, 17, reside at Mason City; while Robert, 26; Mrs. Bessie Beard, 18; Theodore, 12; John, 16; James, 15; Geraldine, 14; Gladys, 11; Ray and Roy, twins, 8; and Dorothy, 7, are all at home with the exception of Dorothy, who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wernowsky at Oakford, Ill. It was alleged that Mrs. Wernowsky committed suicide in 1917 because of her husband's drinking, but Wernowsky denied this. He told The Republican that Mrs. Wernowsky had not been quite right for a long time and that the older daughters knew it as well as he did. Her father died in an asylum as did also some of her other relatives.
Wernowsky lived in Menard county for more than 50 years, having been brought there when two years of age. He moved to New Canton only a short time before the tragedy. The family lived on a 336-acre farm near the Sny bridge in Cincinnati township. He seemed devoted to his family.
It will be remembered that Wernowsky was not arrested until five days after Bessie May Coleman was killed. Sheriff Frank Troutner called at his home on March 7. He had been on the lookout for the car and came upon information that led him to believe that the car was owned by Wernowsky. When he asked about a car, Wernowsky showed him a Maxwell. Sheriff Troutner placed Wernowsky under arrest and started to Pittsfield. After they had gone down the road, Wernowsky volunteered the information that he had an old Overland that would not run back in a shed. The sheriff went back and found the car. The top was wired up, there was but one track leading from the shed, the radiator and fender were bent and a spark plug was missing. After various adjustments the car was made to run and was brought to Pittsfield where it was later identified as the car that various persons had met on the road the night Bessie May Coleman was killed.
source: Pike County Republican p1 – Nov 26, 1924
CHARLES WERNOWSKY IS DEAD
Charles Wernowsky, formerly of New Canton, 52 years old, died of heart disease at St. Mary's hospital in Quincy Friday morning at 7:40 o'clock.
Wernowsky was acquitted Christmas eve of last year of the charges of murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Bessie Coleman of New Canton on March 2, 1923. The state claimed that Wernowsky and his son-in-law, Harry Beard, while in a drunken condition, drove through New Canton at a high rate of speed, striking the Coleman girl as she was crossing the street at attend a picture show, hurling her between 20 and 30 feet. Without checking speed or stopping, they rushed on out of the village.
It is said that Wernowsky worried over this trouble, and that it probably hastened his death.
source: Pike County Democrat p2 – Dec 3, 1924
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1880 CENSUS (Petersburg, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
- Township 18 N Range 7 W
Varnosky, Charles (34), Frederika (35), Augusta (11), Karl (10), Ernest (7), Elizabeth (6), and Ida (5); place of Birth is Prussia except for Elizabeth & Ida born in Illinois.
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1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) -PARENTS
Yanosk, Charles (1845/44), Frederica (1844/55), Henry (1884/15), and Sopha (1887/12); Immigration year: 1872, 28 years, Charles is listed as Naturalized. Charles and Henry are both listed as Farmers.
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1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
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Approximately 1902/1903 - moved to Hubly, Menard County
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1910 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Narnonski, Charles (39), Emma (35), Elsa (15), Anna (14), Robert (12), Sophia (10), Ida (8), Elizabeth (5), Edna (3), John (2), Infant (5/12), Immigration Year 1873 (Emma listed as 1889), all children listed as born in Illinois
1900 CENSUS (Little Grove, Menard, Illinois) - Wernowsky, Charles (29), Emma (24), Elsie (5), Annie (4), Robert (2), and Sopha (1.12), Immigration Year: 1873 (Emma listed as 1892), Occupation: Farmer
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1920 CENSUS (Irish Grove, Menard, Illinois)
Wernowsky: Charles (47), Robert E C (21), Ida F (17), Bessie L (14), Edna M (12), Johnnie H (11), James W (10), Geraldine M (9) Theodore H (7), Gladys H (6), Ray (3 9/12), Roy (3 9/12), Lingy Bale (24 listed as widowed Son-in-law with mom & dad from Kentucky born abt 1896), Charles Marital Status: Widow, Home owned: Rent, Year of Immigration: 1874.
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1923 Nov moved to Pike County (news articles)
Family Members
Parents
Siblings
Children
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Elsa Marie Augusta Wernowsky Bless
1894–1974
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Anna Kathryn Wernowsky Hall
1896–1984
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Robert Ernest Charles Wernowsky
1898–1944
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Sophia Wernowsky Bale
1900–1919
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Ida Frances Wernowsky Stinnett
1903–1982
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Elizabeth Louise "Bessie" Wernowsky Beard
1905–1980
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Edna Marie Wernowsky Godfrey
1907–1997
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John Henry "Jack" Wernowsky
1908–1987
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James William "Jim" Wernowsky
1909–1970
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Geraldine Mae "Gerry" Wernowsky Senteney
1910–2000
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Theodore "Ted" Wernowsky
1912–1985
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Gladys Wernowsky Peterson
1913–1995
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Ray Wernowsky
1916–1973
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Roy Wernowsky
1916–1991
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Dorothy Wernowsky Steinkruger
1917–1981
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