The San Antonio Story

San Antonio Texas in 1854 looking west from La Villita

“The San Antonio Story” by Sam Woolford, with contributions from his wife Bess Carroll Woolford, is a history of San Antonio, Texas. Published in 1950 by Joske’s of Texas, the book was conceived as a remedy for the lack of historical knowledge among San Antonio’s school children, a concern identified by Herbert U. Rhodius, chairman of the Municipal Advertising Commission of San Antonio in 1948-49. Rhodius and his colleagues believed that a readable and authentic history could address this educational gap, making it suitable supplementary reading for public junior high schools.

Stephenson County Illinois World War 1 Veterans

Honor roll of the Great War, Stephenson County, 1917-1919

This small booklet contains all the known men and women who participated in World War 1 and claimed their home of record as Stephenson County, Illinois. By participation, this record does not limit this to soldiers, but also contains the records of those men and women who served the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., and other non-fighting positions. This book is free to read or download.

Biography of Edmund B. Funston

Edmund B. Funston, born on May 19, 1868, in Illinois, was a prominent architect and organizer of the Edmund B. Funston Company Architects in Racine. He significantly contributed to the city’s architectural landscape through numerous notable structures, including churches, banks, and public buildings. After gaining experience in other states, Funston formed a partnership that lasted until 1915, when he established his own firm. Also an entrepreneur, he co-founded Funston Long Distance Telephone Company. He is recognized for his professional expertise and civic engagement. Funston married Ella M. Kephart in 1905, and they have one daughter.

Biographical Sketch of Edward H. Funston

Edward H. Funston, born September 16, 1836, in Ohio, was a prominent political figure in Kansas. He served in the Union Army during the Civil War before settling in Allen County in 1867. Funston held multiple positions in the Kansas Legislature, including speaker of the House and president pro tempore of the Senate. Elected to the U.S. Congress in 1884, he served several terms until losing his seat in 1892. Funston died on September 10, 1911, and was the father of General Frederick Funston.

Biography of Frederick Funston

Frederick Funston, born on November 9, 1865, in Ohio, was a prominent soldier from Kansas. After moving to Kansas at a young age, he pursued studies at the State University and worked as a newspaper reporter. His military career began in Cuba, where he served in the insurgent army. Rising through the ranks, he became a brigadier general during the Philippine-American War, known for capturing Emilio Aguinaldo. Funston later commanded several military departments before his sudden death in San Antonio, Texas, on February 19, 1917.