Biographical Sketch of Herbert F. Couch

Herbert Franklin Couch, born in February 1875 in Italy, Texas, was educated locally before marrying Ida May Coker in March 1896 in Coodys Bluff. Together, they had eight children, including Victor and Elmer. An affluent oil and gas producer, Couch is also a member of the Knights of the Pythias fraternity, and currently resides in Nowata. Ida May, born in April 1879, received her education at the Cherokee National Schools, highlighting the family’s commitment to education and community involvement.

Biography of Robert I. Allen, M. D.

Dr. Robert I. Allen, born on September 9, 1877, in Coodys Bluff, is a prominent surgeon in northeastern Oklahoma. Following his medical education at Baines Medical College, he established his practice in Centralia before moving to Dewey and later Nowata. He served as chief of the surgical staff at Nowata Hospital, which he helped establish. A decorated World War I veteran, Dr. Allen is a dedicated medical professional and community leader, married twice, with three children from his second marriage. He maintains an active role in medical organizations.

Biography of William Johnstone

William Johnstone, born in Montreal in 1859, became a prominent figure in the development of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where he passed away on July 14, 1915. Over his fifty-six years, he established various businesses, including the Bartlesville National Bank and the first trading posts in the area. An advocate for community advancement, Johnstone was deeply involved in social, educational, and political initiatives, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and service. His contributions are fondly remembered, demonstrating his significant impact on the region and its people.

Biography of Mrs. Mary C. Bezion

Mrs. Mary C. Bezion, a prominent pioneer of Nowata County, was born on April 14, 1849, in Wyandotte County, Kansas. She is the daughter of Jim Secondine, a chief of the Delaware, and his wife Nancy. Her life has been marked by resilience and significant historical encounters, including meeting President Lincoln and President Roosevelt. A landowner and a widow, Mrs. Bezion remains active in her affairs while residing on her farm. She has a passion for history, especially relating to her heritage, and is in good health at seventy-three.

Biography of C. B. Reinheardt

C. B. Reinheardt, born on January 18, 1893, in Coodys Bluff, is a prominent agriculturist in Nowata County, managing a substantial 400-acre farm. The son of C. H. Reinheardt, a pioneer in the local oil industry, C. B. initially worked in oil before transitioning to farming. He married Violet May Armstrong in 1914, and they have two children. A supporter of the Democratic Party and active in community affairs, he is also involved in several fraternal organizations, reflecting his commitment to public service and local development.

Biography of Stephen A. Miller

Stephen A. Miller, a prominent farmer and oilman in Nowata County, has been serving as the acting chief of the Delawares since the death of Chief Journeycake. Born in Kansas in 1863, he comes from a lineage of early settlers and pioneers. Miller has cultivated 640 acres dedicated to farming and stock raising while also managing oil interests. An educated man, he previously attended Bacone University and has been involved in tribal affairs, representing significant financial claims. He married Catherine Armstrong in 1882, and they have six children.

Biography of Isaac H. Secondine

Isaac H. Secondine, born on May 29, 1874, in Coodys Bluff, Delaware, is a notable figure in the local decorating business. He hails from a distinguished family, with a grandfather who was chief of the Delaware tribe and a close associate of General Fremont and Abraham Lincoln. After farming until 1919, Secondine shifted to town life where he enjoys significant success. A Republican, he actively supports community initiatives and contributed to wartime efforts. He is married to Liza Newcomb and has one son, Henry A.

Biography of William Nairn, M. D.

Dr. William Nairn, born December 5, 1848, in Jersey County, Illinois, has served Nowata County since 1882, combining a successful medical career with agriculture. A graduate of St. Louis Medical College, he practiced medicine across multiple states before settling in Indian Territory. He owns a farm near Alluwe, where he also engages in stock raising and benefits from oil royalties. Married to Mary Newcomb, they have five children. Dr. Nairn is noted for his commitment to both medicine and community development, earning respect among his peers and neighbors.

Biography of Albert F. Armstrong

Albert F. Armstrong, born on April 3, 1865, in Wyandotte County, Kansas, is a prominent farmer in Nowata County and a brother to Charles F. Armstrong. Educated in local schools and Neosho College, he initially worked in his father’s mercantile business. He later transitioned to farming on a 270-acre property near Coodys Bluff, known for its productive crops and livestock. Married to Lizzie Harmon, they have six children and are active in their community, particularly in education. Armstrong is also involved with the Woodmen of the World.

Biography of Charles W. Childers

Charles W. Childers, born on May 18, 1867, in Missouri, settled in Nowata County, Oklahoma, with his family in 1884. They homesteaded 600 acres, cultivating it into a prosperous farm renowned in the region. Childers raised registered livestock and various crops, contributing significantly to local agriculture. He married Nancy M. Smith, and they had nine children. Active in the Methodist Church and local community, Childers is a respected Mason and a key figure in the area’s development.