Barr

The Call-Leader Mon, Jan 22, 1912 ·Page 1

• • LEPPER TO LEAVE CITY**

Manager of Morris Store Resigns and is Going Into Business.

• • GOOD SUCCESSOR COMING**

James Lepper, manager of the Morris five and ten cent store here for the past two years, announced today that he had tendered his resignation to the owners of the store three months ago, and that he would leave their employ in the very near future and enter business for himself. He will be succeeded by Mr. Fred Bell of Hillsdale, Mich. and the change will occur within the next few days.

• • In Business for Himself**

Mr. Lepper announces that he is preparing to open a line of stores in Ohio similar to those operated by the Morris company in Indiana, and although he will start in a small way, he has his plans laid for branching out and expects within a few years to be at the head of a big business which will place him high in the ranks of the retail business. He left this morning for Ohio to look after some of the details of the new venture and will leave Elwood within a short time to devote his entire time to it.

• • Succeeded by Good Man**

Mr. Bell comes here from the Michigan city where the Morris company recently opened a store. He is a veteran in the five and ten cent store business, having been interested in it during his entire life, and under his management the store promises to continue along the progressive line that has marked it during the past. Mr. Lepper states that the business here has steadily increased during the past two years and that it is now in an ever better condition than had been hoped. The new management will take charge with everything in his favor and Elwood will be glad to welcome him. He is said to believe in progressive methods of every kind, to be a strong advertiser and it is believed that he will keep things hustling from the start.

During his stay in Elwood Mr. Lepper has made many friends and all of them will regret that he is to leave, although they will be glad to know that he is going in business for himself and will wish him every success in his new venture.

The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette Sun, Jun 25, 1911 ·Page 3 J. H. Lepper, clerk in the office of Pennsylvania ticket receiver, resumed his duties Saturday night, having returned from his vacation.

The Daily News-Tribune Mon, May 13, 15, and 16 1922 ·Page 4 FIVE ROOMS OF HOUSEHOLD GOODS AT PUBLIC AUCTION. 506 SYCAMORE STREET, THURSDAY, MAY 18. J. H. LEPPER.

The Herald-Palladium Sat, Jun 02, 1928 · Page 12 Mrs. E. A. Kirby and daughter are visiting relatives at Kenton, Ohio.

The Herald-Palladium Thu, Feb 24, 1927 · Page 11 MERCHANT IS NOMINEE FOR VILLAGE HEAD E. A. Kirby Selected By Caucus Which Names Three New Aldermen HARTFORD, Feb. 24—E. A. Kirby, who is the new candidate for mayor of Hartford, is proprietor of Kirby's Variety store. He was named at the caucus this week to succeed Mayor R. F. Brown, who has been mayor for several years and is spending this winter in California. The other nominees are: R. F. Richter, clerk; R. S. Yeckley, treasurer; Stephen Doyle, assessor; Bert Dyer, J. L. Calvin, G. H. Gifford, trustees. Three new aldermen will be elected this spring.

The Herald-Palladium Fri, Mar 18, 1927 · Page 16 WILL ENLARGE STORE HARTFORD, March 18—E. A. Kirby, who was elected mayor of Hartford at the village election last week, announces that the Kirby Variety Store is to be enlarged through the building of a 20-foot addition at the rear. Although a new resident of Hartford, Mr. Kirby is taking an active interest in community affairs. F. F. Warren owns the building and has ordered materials for the addition.

The Herald-Palladium Fri, Jun 03, 1927 · Page 13 Contractor LeRoy Westcott began Thursday the erection of a 15 foot addition at the rear of the Kirby Variety store. The building is owned by Frank F. Warren.

The Herald-Palladium Wed, Feb 13, 1929 · Page 8 HARTFORD HARTFORD, Feb. 13—James G. Knight of South Haven, employed at the Hale & Co.'s Dept. Store at South Haven, has purchased of E. A. Kirby, the Variety store on Main street. Mr. and Mrs. Knight have taken possession. Mrs. Knight was formerly Miss Marie Starr of this place and later of Bangor.

The Herald-Palladium Fri, Sep 21, 1928 ·Page 12 The Kirby 5 and 10c chain store here has been purchased and will be personally conducted by Charles Bennett of Salina, Ohio.

The Herald-Palladium Mon, Mar 06, 1933 · Page 12 BURGLARS ENTER STORE AT BANGOR BANGOR, March 6—The variety store here, owned and operated by Charles Bennett, was broken into about 2 o'clock Saturday morning, and about $11 in cash taken. Nothing else was disturbed. Entrance was gained by breaking the glass in a rear door. Night Officer Hurlbut had made his usual rounds through the alley a short time before and found everything all right. He discovered the robbery upon his next round. Sheriff's officers and state inspectors are investigating.

The Owensboro Messenger Tue, Oct 21, 1919 ·Page 7 Mr. W. R. Barr, of Bluffton, Ind., and Mr. J. H. Lepper left last night for Morganfield.

The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette Tue, Mar 01, 1910 ·Page 2

James Lepper will move to Elwood soon to take charge of a five and ten cent store which the Morris company, of this city, will open there.

Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, January 19th, 1978 Gasoline fumes drifted into nine downtown Celina businesses last week and made employees in at least two businesses ill. The fumes were caused by gasoline that had leaked into the storm sewer system from Hileman's Texaco Station at Livingston and Main Streets. Employees at Male Fashions, 126 S Main, and at the Celina Coffee Shop, 211 S. Main, said they had been made ill by the fumes. Betty Grace, a grill cook at the Celina Coffee Shop, said she and a co-worker had suffered headaches and that she had an asthma attack as a result of gas fumes. Grace said she and her co-worker were the most affected of coffee shop employees because they work near an exhaust vent which drew the fumes to it. Several Male Fashions employees had to leave work because of severe headaches. Store owner Dan Schreibman temporarily moved out of his apartment over the store because the fumes were so strong there. Gas fumes in the sewer at the intersection of Main and Fayette Streets—the location of Male Fashions—were 70 percent explosive according to acting Fire Chief Don Beougher. Despite the reading, Beougher said, there was no danger to people in the area. Manhole covers were opened Sunday, Jan. 8, after that reading was taken to allow the fumes to escape into the open air. Tuesday, the sewers were flushed with water from fire hydrants. Before flushing the sewer system, gates from Grand Lake St. Marys into Beaver Creek were closed so that the sewers would drain more rapidly into Beaver Creek. At no time, Beougher said, was there danger of explosion in any of the stores. The fumes entered the stores from floor drains which connect with the storm sewers, acting City Engineer Dennis Zahn said. Beougher said nine businesses were affected by the fumes. In addition to Male Fashions and the Celina Coffee Shop, they included Nickel Hardware, the Barr Company, The Style Shop, the Remaklus Co., Western Ohio Gas Co., Benny and Son's Bakery and Bi-Rite. City officials had sought the source of the fumes for two weeks before zeroing in on the Texaco station Monday, Jan. 9. Between 1,000 and 1,800 gallons of gasoline had leaked into the soil from a line between a storage tank and a gas pump, Zahn said. An unknown quantity of that gas had leached into the sewer system. The leak had already been detected by station... Operator Dale Hileman and was being repaired when city officials contacted the station. Prior to the gasoline leak, Zahn said, cleaning solvent had entered the sanitary sewer system at Kawasaki of Celina and created fumes in some downtown businesses. Kawasaki manager Chet Rhodes denied Zahn's claim and confirmed that he had been contacted by city officials. Only one pint of degreaser had gotten into the sanitary sewer system, he said. The motorcycle-snowmobile sales and repair operation, Rhodes said, had used the solvent for four years and never before experienced problems.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, December 4th, 1936

INJURED IN FALL. Ernest Bailey, manager of the Barr store at Celina, fell from a ladder Monday afternoon and re- ceived cuts on his forehand, nose and upper lip. He was taken to the office of Dr. J. T. Gibbons.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 8 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, December 1st, 1950

Miss Ida Knapschaefer of Cold- water was injured Saturday eve- ning in a fall in the Barr store, Celina, and was admitted to the Gibbons hospital Sunday night:

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Daily Standard Celina, Ohio Friday, December 24th, 2010 https://dailystandard.com/archive/2010-12-24/stories/13760/five-and-dime-memories-priceless

CELINA - For 80 years, downtown Celina was home to a "five and dime" store where many families did their Christmas shopping each year. The former Barr Co. 5 ¢ to $1 Store, which opened in 1914, couldn't survive the onslaught of retail giants and closed in 1994. But many residents still recall the aroma of chocolate that filled the air as customer's entered Barr's front door. The candy counter, which stood front center, was filled with assorted fresh bulk candies. Customers could purchase a few ounces or pounds, and the sales clerk would simply mark the price on a white paper bag. "We had essentially three floors, the large ground floor, a basement and an upper mezzanine that was filled with curtains, lamps, stuff like that," recalled Ed Kuenning, of Celina, who managed the store from 1952 until its closure. Toys and children's items were in the basement area, and the main floor (approximately 10,000 square feet) had everything for sale from parakeets and hats to jewelry and notions. There were 31 separate departments in that store, he said, and Christmas time was the busiest time of the year. Barr's employed 18 full-time employees and 10 part-time. Kuenning recalls selling the silver aluminum trees with color wheels and revolving tree stands in the early 1960s. "I remember around 1960 we sold revolving Christmas tree stands that also played music. There were lights, music and action. But they were around $75, pretty pricey for the day," he said. Popular Christmas candy, back in the day, was peanut brittle, peco flake, ribbon candy, cut rock and regular hard mix, not to be outdone by chocolate maple and vanilla clusters and chocolate covered peanuts, he said. "And we had hankie specials and special towel sets that were popular," Kuenning added. The Barr store was a good place for an entire family to shop, said Celina resident Nancy Ellinger, 84. "My whole family would go at the same time. It was a nice place to get together and talk and meet and greet other shoppers and the merchandise was nice too," Ellinger said. "I remember one time one of my sons went off by himself in the store, and we couldn't find him. When we found him, he always let it be known it was him that found us." Mike Yohey, 66, currently of Montezuma, remembers, as a child, always heading for the toy department in the store's basement while his parents were upstairs shopping. "They always had a lot of toys and I had to check them out, and then there was that big candy counter," he said. Susie Wurster, 68, of Celina, remembers working in the toy department in the Christmas season of 1958 or 1959, she says. She sold a lot of cap guns and cowboy outfits as Christmas presents for children. She was a young 17 years old at the time and totally enamored with singer Elvis Presley, she said. She also recalled the day she and a girlfriend skipped the last period of school to walk uptown to Barr's to purchase a 45 record - Presley, of course. "We got caught and got suspended from school for three days," she said. Wurster got paid in cash, every two weeks, she said, and when her dad picked her up after work, she would take her money, purchase a sweater and Christmas candy for the whole family. "By the time I quit working, I had several sweaters for school and enough candy for all the family," she said. "It was a great store and it was a lot of fun working there." There were seven Barr stores in all, Kuenning said, noting the chain was founded by brothers Fred and Will Barr. The first stores were located Celina, Greenville and Kenton. Later came stores in Yellow Springs and Covington and two in Indiana in Monticello and Frankfort. The Barr chain was sold in 1978 to the W.R. Thomas Co., which expanded it to 14 stores. They were all called dime stores, Kuenning said, and all are now pretty much a thing of the past. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celina Ohio Sesquicentennial 1834-1984 Published 1984 https://willkefamily.com/books/Celina-Ohio-Sesquicentennial.pdf

The Barr Store, Division of W.R. Thomas Stores, founded in 1914 by Fred and Will Barr. The Barr Stores, (four) were bought by W.R. Thomas Co. in 1978, now a chain of 12 stores in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. The Store Owner, Mr. Philip Spear, is located at Warsaw, Indiana; the twelve variety stores have their headquarters and buying offices in Warsaw. The Celina Store's Manager is W. Edward Kuenning. The Barr Store is located in the Union Block Building, which was constructed in 1906. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Online comment https://cindyhattersleydesign.com/back-home-again-in-indiana/

I have been following your blog for a long time and had no idea you grew up in Monticello! My great grandfather in Frankfort started and owned several Spencer’s Five and Dime stores in Indiana, and my uncle Bob Straesser managed the one in Monticello before it was bought out by the Barr Co. in the 60’s ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News 04 Feb 1921, Lima, Ohio, USA

James Lepper formerly of St. Marys and a member of the fast-growing concern of the Barr Lepper Co., announced this week the opening of a new store at Kenton in addition to the string of stores Already established of the Greenville store. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Barr's " residents still recall the aroma of chocolate that filled the air as customer's entered Barr's front door " comment & photo Daily Standard , Dec. 24 , 2010 . Classified advertisement Grand Opening, Barr - Lepper Company , Celina Democrat, Sept. 18 , 1914 ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://indianaalbum.pastperfectonline.com/photo/5E99056A-6C84-417A-9E0F-529673071214 W. R. Thomas five and dime stores were located in Warsaw, Angola, Syracuse, and LaGrange, as well as Michigan and Ohio ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton, indiana Rotary Club 100th Anniversary Published 2019 https://news-banner.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/A-Century-of-Service.pdf

In 1926, Will R. Barr, department store head, was elected governor over the old 20th district, consisting of 67 clubs scattered over the entire state of Indiana. During his administration, he visited and addressed every club, some of them many times. His wide knowledge of Rotary, his able presentation of its aims and ideals, have won for him a warm place in Rotary’s rank and file. His outstanding ability and leadership has placed him on every annual district conference program through succeeding years and has made him a headliner on many special inter-city and ladies’ night programs in this and neighboring states. Through Mr. Barr’s leadership, a closer bond was built up with the neighboring clubs and we were given a glimpse of what international relationship could accomplish. Mr. Barr climaxed his year’s tenure in office with the annual district conference held in Ft. Wayne. The conference lasted three days and closely approximated the caliber of an international conference. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton, indiana Rotary Club 100th Anniversary Published 2019 https://news-banner.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/A-Century-of-Service.pdf

Our fourth President, William R. Barr, was one of our most famous members. He was deeply involved in the Baptist Church serving twice as President of the Indiana Baptist Convention and later as the first Vice President of the American Baptist Convention. In 1926, in only the seventh year of our existence, he was elected District Governor of the 67 clubs located through Indiana. The Bluffton Rotary Club had 100% attendance at the district conference for his election ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton, indiana Rotary Club 100th Anniversary Published 2019 https://news-banner.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/A-Century-of-Service.pdf

Though one of the youngest men at that time, not only in Rotary but in religious, fraternal and civil life, our fourth president, William R. Barr, has had many honors and great responsibilities placed upon him. His religious contributions have been outstanding: He was a Baptist, taught the Merriman Bible Class during the pastorates of Drs. McKay and Spear for 12 years, a member of the board of deacons twice that long; president of the Indiana Baptist Convention two years, treasurer of that organization for 16 years; member of the general council of the American Baptist Convention (a national organization) three years, was first vice president the last year; served as chairman of the World Mission Crusade in Indiana; was president of the Indiana Baptist men five years. For 20 years, Mr. Barr was a member of the board of trustees of the Ft. Wayne School for Feeble-Minded, 16 years of that time was president of the board directing the care and administration of 1,950 inmates and 275 employees. Fraternally, Mr. Barr served in 1912 as master of Bluffton Lodge F. & A.M. #145 and commander of commandery #38 Knights Templar. In addition to serving as president of Rotary in 1922-23, he was later elected district governor; an account of that contribution was given in another part of this memoranda.

Mr. Barr was born in Bluffton, 1874, attended Bluffton Schools and took two years of training in Mechanic Institute in Rochester, New York, returned to Bluffton where he engaged in the clothing business and later operated a large department store for several years. At the present Mr. Barr is president of the Barr Company operating a chain of variety stores in Ohio. During Mr. Barr’s presidency most of the programs were prepared, procured and presented by the members themselves, aimed to develop initiative as we were still a club in a formative period as was the parent organization, Rotary International ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat Fri, Dec 22, 1916 ·Page 1

Celina, Ohio Dear Santa Claus--Please bring me that large doll at Barr and Leppers store, and also clothes for the doll for Sunday, every day and school days; one large Christmas tree, some candy and nuts, one crying cat, a pair of shoes for dolly Ruth, one jumping-jamk, and a bath robe for myself. Good-bye, MADONNA PULSKAMP

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/63954351/fred-hugh-barr l Fred Hugh Barr BIRTH 3 Oct 1878 in Wayne, Wayne County, Indiana, USA DEATH 27 Sep 1954 (aged 75) in Celina, Mercer County, Ohio, USA BURIAL in North Grove Cemetery of Celina, Mercer County, Ohio, USA Fred, 75, passed away at 7:00 a.m., in his home. Surviving are his daughter, Mrs. R.M. Neer, Celina; a brother, William, Bluffton, IN; and three grandchildren. He owned the Barr Co., Celina variety store and was a member of St. Paul Metodist Church. Services were in the Vale Funeral Home, with Rev. Dr. Don Mueler, officiating. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.ciscofuneralhome.com/obituaries/Wilbur-Ed-Kuenning/#!/Obituary

Wilbur “Ed” Edward Kuenning Jr., age 93, of Celina, passed away on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at 7:58 pm at his residence. He was born July 2, 1927 in New Bremen to the late Widlbur Edward Kuenning Sr. and Ada (Bertke) Kuenning. On August 2, 1953 he married Wilma L. (Schnarre) Kuenning. They were together for 68 wonderful years and she survives at their residence in Celina.

Other survivors include his children, Druann (Gary) Kuenning Whitaker of Celina, Mark (Beverly) Kuenning of Celina and Kimberly (Rick) Kuenning Werling of Celina; two sisters-in-law, Deloris Kuenning, Moline of Illinois and Dixie Kuenning of St. Marys; eleven grandchildren, Cheridy (Paul) Saunders of Columbus, Ty (Lynda) Eisenmann Whitaker of Cincinnati, Shay Whitaker of Denver, CO, Leisa Butterfield of Galion, Ohio, Julie (Kyle) Schmehl of St. Marys, Jennifer (Nick) Phillips of Celina, Andrew Moriarty of FL, Courtney Moriarty of Columbus, Sharee (Ian) Quick of Troy, Miranda (Mitchell) Hawkins of Texas and Josiah Werling of Washington State; and eleven great grandchildren.

He is also preceded in death by two brothers, Kenneth Kuenning and Jack Kuenning.

Ed was a 1945 graduate of St. Marys Memorial High School and he served his country in the United States Navy during the WWII era. He retired from Barr’s Five and Dime in Celina as store manager after 42 years of employment.

Ed was a very active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Celina, Celina American Legion Post #210 and Celina Masonic Lodge #241. He was active in the community being recognized as the Celina Citizen of the Year. He also played an instrumental part in bringing back the Celina Lake Festival after WWII.

As our hearts ache for the physical loss of Ed, we find solace knowing that he is now with God. He is at peace. And for that, we are grateful. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com/obituaries/Philip-G-Spear?obId=25519310

Philip G. Spear, 83, of Carmel, Indiana, died on 12/11/2010 at 12:20 AM at Cleare Bridge of Carmel, Indiana. He was born on February 6, 1927 in Holland, Michigan. He was the son of Russell M. and Marian (Chard) Spear. He graduated from Warsaw High School and Northwestern University School of Business (Fraternity member Sigma Alpha Epsilon) and later from Army General School in Fort Riley Kansas. He was a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army Reserve, retiring February 6, 1987. He became president in 1964 for W.R. Thomas Stores, a chain of 13 varity stores in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. He was elected to the Board of Directors of the Varity Stores Association in New York and later elected chairman of the 1977 Regional Company Community of the Association of General Merchandise Chains based in Washington DC. He was past president of the Warsaw Rotary and a member of the Masonic Lodge # 73, American Legion Post 49, Warsaw. He was past director of Warsaw Insurance Agency and he was elected to the Board of Directors for Lake City Bank in 1967, retiring after 31 years. Philip was also a past elder of the Presbyterian Church in Warsaw.SurvivingHis loving wife of 25 years, Donna L. Spear of Zionville, IndianaSon: Philip Jeffrey Spear of Warsaw, IndianaDaughter: Julia (and spouse Curtis) Schultz of Valparaiso, IndianaStep sons: Eric Fernkas and family of Indianapolis, IndianaMark Fernkas of New York City, New YorkStep daughter: Andra Walters and family of Zionsville, IndianaFour grandchildren: Grant and Kyle Schultz; Jenna (and spouse Eric) DeFord; Sara SpearTwo great grandchildren: Braxton and Zachary DeFord He was preceded in death by his parents. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Warsaw (IN) Times-Union Aug 15, 1978

Progress and growth, a healthy combination for a chain of variety stores stretching throughout a tri-state area, became evident with the recent acquisition of four stores. W. R. Thomas Stores Inc., the chain of variety stores with its roots established in downtown Warsaw in 1904, began spreading throughout Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan in 1933. Phillip G. Spear, president of W. R. Thomas Stores Inc., recently announced that the chain has expanded from nine to 13 stores following the purchase of four stores on Aug. 1. "It represents a major expansion for our company," Spear said.

Four stores located in Celina, Kenton, Hicksville, and Covington, Ohio were purchased from The Barr-Company this month. The stores will be operated under the name of The Barr Company, a division of W. R. Thomas Stores Inc., Spear commented.

The nine stores already a part of the chain include the Big T Discount in Warsaw; the Thomas Family Center in Angola; W. R. Thomas Store in Lagrange; Maley's Variety Store in Goshen; Thomas Family Center Store in North Manchester; W. R. Thomas Store in Oak Harbor Ohio; Big T Discount in North Baltimore, Ohio; W. R. Thomas Store in Port Clinton, Ohio; and W.R. Thomas Store in Eton Rapids, Mich. The first variety store, located in the 100 block of East Market St. in Warsaw, was founded by William R. Thomas. The store was moved to the Bowser Building (now Kline's World) at the corner of Buffalo and Market streets. In 1937, it was moved to its present location at 115 South Buffalo St. in downtown Warsaw. The name of the business, W. R. Thomas Store, was changed to Big T Discount in 1974.

Since the beginning of the chain, two variety stores have been converted to discount stores, according to Spear. The first branch store was purchased in Ligonier in 1933 and the second store was acquired in 1935 in Angola. In its early history, a store was opened in 1939 in Lagrange. The chain of stores, with its headquarters in Warsaw, is a member of the Association of General Merchandise Chains. It includes large and small retail stores, as well as regional chains. He was chairman of the AGMC regional stores committee last year and now serves as a director of the organization.

A graduate of Warsaw High School, Spear was still a student in 1945 when he began working for the local variety store in 1940. He has been president of W. R. Thomas Stores Inc. since 1960. He has served as a director of the Lake City Bank since 1967, and a director of the Warsaw Insurance Agency since 1970. A past president of the Warsaw Rotary Club, he is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve. Spear is a graduate of the Army's Command and General Staff College. Spear, his wife, Rosalee, and daughter, Julia, reside at Yarnelle Point, Country Club Dr., Warsaw. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (IN) Chronicle Jul 22, 1914

Fred H. Barr is set to establish himself in Celina as he prepares to manage the second store of a company in which he is a stakeholder. Today's announcement revealed that a firm formed by William R. Barr, Fred H. Barr of this city, and James Lepper of St Marys, currently operating a five and ten cent store in St. Marys, Ohio, plans to inaugurate their second outlet in Celina, Ohio soon.

With this new venture, Bluffton will bid farewell to one of its esteemed and well-liked young residents, as Fred H. Barr moves to Celina to oversee the new establishment. The Celina store is slated to open by the end of September at the latest. Mr. Barr will remain associated with the Leader Company here for a few more weeks, where he holds shares and has been an integral part of the clothing department for the past fifteen years.

The partnership of W. R. Barr, James Lepper, and Fred H. Barr, which has been in effect since January 1, 1914, first launched their business with the St Marys store. After prolonged negotiations for a suitable spot in Celina, the firm has finalized a lease for a substantial store, featuring a 20-foot front and extending 112 feet in depth.

While Bluffton residents will undoubtedly miss Fred Barr and his family, they extend their best wishes for success and happiness in their new abode in Celina. Known for his industrious nature, amiable demeanor, and ability to cater to customer needs, Mr. Barr is anticipated to thrive and cultivate a strong community of friends in his new environment. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (IN) Chronicle Aug 25, 1915 Mrs. Fred Barr's brother, Harry W. Elter of Fort Wayne, tragically lost his life in a building collapse in Texas City, Texas, during a severe hurricane last Monday. The son of Henry Elter Sr. of 1809 Webster Street, Mr. Elter's passing was part of a devastating incident that claimed the lives of several United States soldiers.

While the press dispatches did not provide details of the accident, official notification of Mr. Elter's death was sent to Mrs. Fred Barr of Celina, Ohio, formerly of Bluffton. Mrs. Barr, in turn, informed her father in Fort Wayne. Mr. Elter Sr. promptly contacted the war department to request the return of his son's body for burial. The body, recovered from the collapsed building's debris in Texas City, is expected to arrive next Monday, accompanied by a military escort.

Harry W. Elter, aged 28, was in the midst of his second enlistment with the United States Infantry, having served for a year and a half. He leaves behind his brothers, John H. Elter of West DeWald Street, and Robert and Henry Elter, who reside with their father on Webster Street.

The news of Mr. Elter's untimely demise reached Bluffton on Friday through the W. L. Barr family, with additional details provided by Mr. Elter's lieutenant in Texas City. Mrs. Fred Barr, Harry's sister and wife of Fred Barr of Celina, was listed as the emergency contact by Mr. Elter, signifying her role as the family member to be notified in the event of his demise. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Dec 29, 1915

James Lepper is set to embark on a new venture in Kentucky, as announced today. The five and ten cent store company, a collaborative effort involving James Lepper of St. Marys, Ohio, Fred Barr of Celina, and W. R. Barr of this city, is gearing up to launch a new store in Owensboro, Kentucky within the next few weeks. Mr. Lepper is making preparations to relocate and take the helm of this new establishment, situated in a bustling city with a population of 16,000.

The company is not stopping there; it has plans to inaugurate a second store in Kentucky shortly after. Additionally, it will maintain its presence in Ohio, running two stores under the general supervision of Fred H. Barr. These include the existing store in Celina and another soon-to-be-announced location, which will replace the St. Marys store that the company intends to sell off. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Feb 23, 1916

From Wednesday's Daily: Fred Barr of Celina visited Bluffton on Tuesday night and accompanied his father, Robert Barr, to Chicago the following day. The purpose of their trip is for Robert Barr to consult with Dr. John B. Murphy, a renowned Chicago surgeon, at Mercy Hospital. They seek expert advice on Mr. Barr's hip condition, which has been causing a walking impediment for several years.

As of now, it's unclear whether any surgery will be performed in Chicago or possibly later in Bluffton. Mr. Barr's condition has progressively worsened, necessitating the use of crutches for mobility. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Jan 3, 1917

John H. Eiter, brother of Mrs. Fred Barr, passed away on Friday morning in Fort Wayne. His father, Henry Eiter, formerly resided here. The Journal-Gazette reported Mr. Eiter's death, detailing that he passed away at St. Joseph's Hospital early on Friday at the age of 32 due to muscular atrophy after a prolonged illness, being bedridden since last September.

John H. Eiter, a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne, received his education at St. Patrick's School and Brothers' High School. He married Miss Code Wolcox in 1907 and worked as a machinist for the Wabash railroad for sixteen years. He was a member of the machinists' union, Ben Hur lodge, and an active participant in St. Patrick's Catholic Church.

He is survived by his widow, three children—Kenneth, Virginia, and Lyle Eiter—his father Henry Eiter of this city, a sister, Mrs. Fred Barr of Celina, Ohio, and two brothers, Henry and Robert Eiter, both of this city.

His body was taken to the Mungovan & Ryan parlors and later moved to the family residence on Friday afternoon. The Ben Hur Court No. 15 held ritualistic services at 3 o'clock on Sunday afternoon. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Chronicle Oct 20, 1915

Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Barcus, from this city, celebrated their golden wedding anniversary today with a reception at the home of their daughter, Mrs. I. J. Blitz, in Fort Wayne. The couple, who were married in Fort Wayne fifty years ago, lived there for 33 years while Mr. Barcus was engaged in business. For the past 17 years, they have resided in Bluffton. A grand family dinner took place at the Blitz home, with a reception held from three to five in the afternoon and guests also welcomed from eight to ten in the evening. Mr. and Mrs. Barcus were congratulated by hundreds of friends.

Among those from this city who attended the anniversary celebration were Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Barcus, Mrs. Clara Deam, Mrs. George F. McFarren, Mr. and Mrs. Earl McFarren, Mr. and Mrs. Harry McFarren, W. H. Bennett and wife, Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Barr, Robert Barr, J. W. Goodyear and wife, Mrs. Clara Springstead, and Mrs. Emma Patrick.

Guests from out of town included Mr. and Mrs. Fred Barr of Celina, Ohio; Mr. and Mrs. James Lepper of St Marys, Ohio; and R. C. Bennett and wife from Indianapolis, who also graced the Blitz home on this special day. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Toledo Blade Mar 17, 1947

From the State Correspondents: This weekend in northwest Ohio witnessed seven tragic fatalities due to five separate accidents. Slippery road conditions and severe snowstorms contributed to the devastating outcomes in these traffic-related incidents.

The individuals whose lives were lost are as follows:

- Reynold L. Westenbarger, aged 21, and Robert E. Edwards, aged 32, both from Columbus Grove, O., succumbed to their injuries in an accident near Continental. - Paul E. Coates, aged 28, and Vernor Barr, aged 39, both from Celina, O., perished in a collision between an automobile and a truck near Coldwater, O. - Francis Adler, aged 20, from Milton Center, met a fatal end in an accident close to Milton Center. - Nathaniel R. Buck, aged 86, from R.D 1, Lima, was tragically killed instantly when he was hit by a taxicab in Lima. - James R. Cannan, aged 74, from Wapakoneta, lost his life in an accident near Lima. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Standard History of Adams and Wells Counties, Indiana An Authentic Narrative of the Past, with an Extended Survey of Modern Developments in the Progress of Town and Country By John Wilson Tyndall, Orlo Ervin Lesh · Published 1918

William R. Barr of Bluffton has been a prominent figure in the community's trade, business, civic, social, and religious life for over three-quarters of a century. As the vice president and manager of The Leader Company, he has played a significant role in supplying a large portion of the reliable merchandise in Bluffton and throughout Wells County.

William R. Barr was born on April 27, 1874, to Robert and Harriet (Deam) Barr (née Bennett) in Fort Wayne. His father, Robert Barr, was born in 1848 in Paisley, Scotland, known for its famous shawls. As a young child, Robert moved with his mother to Halifax, then to Rochester, New York, where he was raised and educated in common schools. He learned his trade in machine shops in Rochester before moving to Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 1880, he relocated to Bluffton to work for George W. Grimes in his foundry and machine shop. He was integral in building the industry, manufacturing boilers, engines, mill machinery, and architectural iron work. A member of Bluffton Lodge No. 114, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and a republican, he served as a councilman and now lives with his son, William R. Barr. The family includes William R., Fred H. (manager of a chain of 5 and 10-cent stores), and Alice, a Blufton High School graduate and wife of James H. Lepper of Owensboro, Kentucky.

William R. Barr moved to Bluffton at age six, attended local schools, and worked in Rochester, New York, with civil engineers before returning to Bluffton to join G. F. McFarren's business. He later bought the John W. Tribolet clothing store with William S. Smith and eventually merged it with Bender, Walmer & Barr. After five years, Mr. Walmer retired, and the remaining partners continued the business.

The Leader Company, incorporated in 1908, has Samuel Bender as president, William R. Barr as vice president, and Herbert H. Bender as secretary and treasurer. Mr. Barr also holds director positions in W. B. Brown Company, M. & R. Traction Company, and Elm Grove Cemetery. He is involved in various organizations, including Masonic lodges, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and is a republican.

Mr. Barr married Margaret Walling from Muncie, Indiana. The couple has an adopted daughter, Lois Barr, and are active members of the Baptist Church, where Mrs. Barr has been involved in music education and the church's music for years. Mr. Barr teaches a Sunday school class of about 250 members. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Feb 21, 1912

James Lepper, formerly a clerk in Bluffton, has taken a significant step in his career by securing a spacious and ideally located room in St. Marys, Ohio, for a new five and ten cent store. The lease was signed on Friday, and the store is set to open in a building that's currently under construction. Mr. Lepper aims to have the store ready and stocked by June first.

Mr. Lepper's journey began in Bluffton, where he moved from Ossian to work at the Walmer & Engeler store. He later joined the Morris five and ten cent store in the city to learn the trade. Subsequently, he moved to Elwood to manage the Morris store there. Recently, he resigned from that position to focus on launching his own business venture.

While preparing for the new store in St. Marys, Mr. Lepper is currently employed as a clerk at the Charles Wiley store in Elwood. He's the son of W. H. Lepper from Union township in the county.

The new store in St. Marys boasts impressive dimensions of 30 x 80 feet and is part of a block that will also host the First National Bank, adding to the commercial appeal of the location. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Aug 20, 1913

Gus Cummins, a former Bluffton business man who is held in universal esteem by Bluffton people, has purchased an established five and ten cent store at Fort Recovery, Ohio, and will embark in business there immediately.

Cummins had gone to St. Marys to visit James Lepper, who runs a five and ten cent store there, and Lepper cited the location to him. Mr. Cummins formerly was in business here. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Chronicle Jan 22, 1913

James Lepper left this morning for his home in St. Marys, Ohio, after spending several days here on business and visiting with relatives. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Chronicle Aug 6, 1913

• • LEADER COMPANY BUYS VALUABLE PROPERTY**
  • BOUGHT BIG BRICK BLOCK FROM TRIBOLET AND STUDABAK. CR ESTATES**

The Leader Company has completed transactions whereby they purchased two large, valuable pieces of real estate in the heart of the business district.

The three-story building, 24x80, at the corner of Main and Market Street, was purchased from the estate of John W. Tribolet, and the three-story structure, 40x140, at the corner of Main and Perry Streets, occupied by the offices of the Studabaker Grain & Seed Company, the Masonic lodge, and temporarily by the Studabaker bank, was purchased from G. T. Markley, commissioner to sell the real estate of the estate of the late John Studabaker.

Mr. W. R. Barr, of the Leader Company, stated that they have acquired the property with a view to caring for the future growth of the business. He said that he and his partners wish to give Bluffton an up-to-date department store for a long time to come, and by the purchase of this property, they are assured of their ability to meet the demands of growing business.

The Leader Company and the Studabaker Grain & Seed Company have made arrangements whereby the latter company will occupy their present quarters under a long-term lease. The room which is temporarily occupied by the Studabaker bank will be vacant at the first of the year, and it was indicated today that the new owners may occupy it at that time.

The Leader Company now owns all but one of the buildings which it occupies. The center room of the three which face on Market Street was purchased a number of years ago, long before the company was organized as it now is. The north room, fronting on Main Street, has been owned by the Leader Company for some time, and by this deal, they secure the corner room. The westernmost of the three Market Street rooms is owned by Eugene Morrow but is occupied by the Leader Company on a long-term lease. The building purchased from the Studabaker estate extends from Main Street to the alley at the east of the Spitler Bros Hardware store. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton (Indiana) Chronicle Jul 22, 1914

• • ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW STORE OPENING**
  • William R. Barr, Fred H. Barr, and James Lepper Expand Business to Celina, Ohio**

An announcement was made today that a firm composed of William R. and Fred H. Barr, of this city, and James Lepper, of St. Marys, who are currently conducting a five and ten cent store in St. Marys, Ohio, will open their second store soon. This second store will be located in the city of Celina, Ohio.

With the establishment of the Celina store, Bluffton will lose another one of its prominent and popular young men, as Fred H. Barr will go to Celina to take charge as the manager of the new store. It is expected that the Celina store will be ready for opening no later than September first. Mr. Barr will remain a few weeks longer with the Leader Company of this city, where he is a stockholder and has been employed in the clothing department for the past fifteen years.

The five and ten cent store in St. Marys was first established by Messrs. W.R. Barr and James Lepper, and Fred H. Barr has been a member of the firm since January 1, 1914. There have been negotiations underway for some time to find a location for the firm's new store in Celina, and a lease has been closed on a large store there with a 20-foot front and 112 feet in length.

While Bluffton citizens will regret to lose Fred Barr and his family as residents, they wish them every success and happiness in their new home in Celina. Mr. Barr is known as a hustler and a pleasant, accommodating young man who is sure to succeed and make a host of friends in his new home. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Chronicle Mar 4, 1908

• • LEADER COMPANY INCORPORATES FOR $100,000**
  • BIG DEPARTMENT STORE OF BLUFFTON NOW OWNED BY STOCK COMPANY**

The filing of incorporation papers on Wednesday with the Secretary of State in Indianapolis by the Leader Company, of this city, marked an important change in the well-known firm of the Leader department store in this city. The Leader Company, successors to the firm of Bender & Barr, is incorporated with a capital stock of $100,000, and a franchise is issued to it by the state for a period of fifty years. The Leader Company enters upon business immediately as successors to the firm of Bender & Barr.

In the organization and incorporation of the Leader Company, a controlling interest in the capital stock is held by Samuel Bender and William R. Barr, but the exact division of the stock among the various stockholders is not announced. In addition to Messrs. Barr and Bender, other stockholders include the clerks and employees in the big department store. These new stockholders are M.F. Burroughs, Frank Moore, Charles Merriman, Fred H. Barr, Herbert Bender, Carl McBride, and Misses Inez Craven and Nellie Neaderhouser.

The directors of the Leader Company for the first year, as shown in the incorporation papers, are Samuel Bender, W.R. Barr, and M.F. Burroughs. The officers of the company for the ensuing year are S. Bender, president; W.R. Barr, vice-president and general manager; and Herbert Bender, secretary and treasurer.

The primary objective of Messrs. Bender and Barr in having the Leader Company incorporated is to give their old and faithful employees, particularly those who have been with them for a number of years and have always worked diligently for the company's best interests, an opportunity to share in the profits of the business and to earn more than just their salaries from the firm. The policies of the new company will continue the traditions and practices of the old Leader firm.

The new Leader stock company includes in its holdings all the personal and real estate that belonged to the old Leader store as a franchise. This includes the east and west business rooms occupied by the store and the room used by the Shire & Engeler restaurant, as well as lots purchased in the Merchants and Manufacturers addition by Bender & Barr, and all the stocks and fixtures of the store. Under the safe and conservative management that has always characterized this firm, the success of the new stock company is assured.

All the capital stock of $100,000 is owned by the various stockholders mentioned above, and none is available for sale on the market. Moreover, none of the stock can be acquired by individuals who are not members of the firm or employees of the store. If any stockholder decides to retire at any point, their stock will be purchased by the Leader Company's other stockholders. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Standard History of Adams & Wells Counties, Indiana. John W. Tyndall for Adams County, O. E. Lesh for Wells County. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1918, pp. 488-489. Contributed by Nola Rains Edwin S. Walmer Published 1918

The men who succeed in any enterprise in life, the generals who win their spurs on the field of battle, the financiers who amass wealth are the men who have confidence in themselves and the courage of their convictions. There is a time in every man's life when he reaches the conclusion that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide and that though the world is full of good, no good thing comes to him without self-reliance and the power to gain results. The man who trusts himself and who plans well his part on the stage of life is a success. A strong and sterling character is like an acrostic read it forward or backward or across it still spells the same thing. The business career of Edwin S. Walmer, one of the foremost dry-goods merchants of Bluffton, is an ample illustration of what persistency and determination, coupled with ambition and the ability to work, can accomplish.

A native of the City of Bluffton, Edwin S. Walmer was born November 5, 1868, and he is a son of Henry S. and Catherine (Krill) Walmer, both natives of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The father was a shoemaker by trade and he came to Wells County, Indiana, about 1848, entering the employ of Matthew Winters as foreman in his shoe shop. Subsequently he purchased this shop, employing as many as six operators, and later he owned a shop on East Market Street. April 1, 1880, he disposed of his shoe shop and located on a farm, part of which is now within the corporate limits of Bluffton. He continued to live on the farm and devoted his attention to diversified agriculture until his demise, June 6, 1900. He was a republican in politics and while he did not participate actively in local affairs still he manifested a deep and sincere interest in all matters projected for the good of the general welfare. Mrs. Walmer was summoned to the life eternal in 1901. She and her husband were the parents of ten children, eight of whom are living, in 1917, as follows: Amanda is the wife of W. T. Shaffer, of Muncie, Indiana; Catherine is the wife of D. M. Karns, of Bluffton; Jennie married H. E. Rowley, of Anderson, Indiana; D. A. Walmer resides in Bluffton; Ella is the wife of G. T. Hartley, of Muncie; Clara is the wife of H. L. Troutman, of Indiana; William H. is a farmer in Harrison Township, Wells County; Edwin S.; Barbara was the wife of A. J. Tribolet at the time of her death in 1914; and Sarah died at the age of ten years.

Edwin S. Walmer was a lad of eleven years of age when his parents located on the farm. He attended the public schools of the locality and at the age of thirteen years entered the Bluffton High School, in which he was graduated as a member o the class of 1886. This class consisted of thirty-four pupils, the largest graduating class until 1910. August 1, 1886, he accepted a position with D. A. Walmer & Company of Montpelier, Indiana, at $6 per week. Out of his salary he saved $50 during the first year. He remained with that firm for four years, at the end of which he engaged in the livery business, selling out his share in that enterprise to his partner at the end of six months. Returning to Bluffton, he obtained a position with the Leader store and remained in the employ of that concern for sixteen years, during ten of which he was salesman and manager. He then entered into a partnership alliance with S. Bender, under the firm name of Bender & Walmer, dry-goods merchants, and a short time afterward this concern took over the clothing firm of Smith & Barr, and the name was changed to Bender, Walmer & Barr. This company was continued for five years but August 27, 1907, Mr. Walmer disposed of his interest to Bender & Barr for the tidy sum of $26,000. March 5, 1908, he purchased a two-thirds interest in the People's Store (E. S. Walmer & Company), his partner in this enterprise being J. R. Bishop. In 1913 a third partner, W. C. McBride, was admitted and the store was run under this triple alliance, as it were, until August, 1916, when Mr. McBride retired, and in the following month Mr. Walmer also took over the share owned by Mr. Bishop. The People's Store is one of the largest and finest concerns of its kind in Wells County and has a very extensive patronage. Mr. Walmer was interested in the Bluffton Steam Laundry and ran the same for two years. He also has extensive real estate interests in Bluffton and he is a stockholder in the Studabaker Bank and in the Union Savings & Trust company, in the latter of which he is a member of the board of directors.

July 13, 1892, Mr. Walmer married Miss Isca Wentz, a daughter of W. H. and Owega (White) Wentz. Mrs. Walmer was born in Montpelier, Indiana, September 23, 1870, and she was educated in the Bluffton public and high schools. One son has been born to this union, namely, Hillard W., the date of whose nativity is August 30, 1897. He was graduated in the Bluffton High School and for a year and a half was a student in the Indiana State University. He then entered Marion Institute, at Marion, Alabama, and after four months there passed the examination and is now midshipman of the United States Army at the Annapolis Naval Academy.

Mr. Walmer is a valued and appreciative member of Bluffton Lodge No. 796, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and in politics he is a stalwart republican. Mr. Walmer is a man of fine mentality and broad human sympathy. He thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always courteous, kindly and affable and those who know him personally accord him the highest esteem. His life has been exemplary in all respects and he supports those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while his own high moral worth is deserving of the highest commendation. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From the collection of Thomas Keesling.

The full postcard image can be seen here. www.flickr.com/photos/hoosier_recollections/8412502755/in...

1908 dated postcard view of the Street Fair in Bluffton, Indiana. It was September 28th and this was Market Street looking west from the vicinity of the Main Street intersection. The photographer was at the southwest corner of that intersection and probably at a second-floor office window in the Wells County Bank Building. Flags and bunting adorned many of the buildings in the scene and numerous booths were set up in the street. A large crowd was enjoying the fair. The Wells County Court House was just outside of this view on the left.

It was an election year and a large banner hanging in the background advertised the location of DEMOCRATIC HEADQUARTERS. That was west of Johnson Street and the 1906 Sanborn™ fire insurance map set for Bluffton shows the J. E. Sturgis Block on the northwest corner of that intersection.

A sign to the right of the tallest utility pole in this view advertised THE PROGRESS store. A 1908 city directory¹ listed this business under the “Notions and Novelties” category at 119 West Market Street. This was the second business location west of the alley. A sign east of The Progress store advertised CLINE & ZIMMER HARDWARE. The 1908 directory listed the Cline, Zimmer & Reed hardware business at 117 West Market Street. That business was on the west side of the alley, and a large sign painted on the side of their building advertised the sale of BUGGIES and CARRIAGES. The map sets show a hardware store at that address. The 1908 directory listed the business under several categories, including “Agricultural Implements,” “Bicycles,” “Buggies,” “Hardware” and “Tinners.”

A sign on the building east of the alley advertised a bank. Both Sanborn™ map sets show a bank at this location (113 West Market Street) and the 1908 directory listed the Studabaker Bank at this address. The sign on the stand in the street in front of that bank also advertised STUDABAKER.

The next readable business sign was on the third building east of the alley (to the right in this view). The sign at the top of that building advertised a DRUG STORE. Both Sanborn™ map sets show a drugstore at this location and give the address as 107 West Market Street. The 1908 directory listed the Davenport and Ehle Drug Store at that address. A 1908 state report² listed Louis C. Davenport and Frank E. Ehle as two of the 16 druggists in Bluffton at that time.

The large three-story building at the right side of this scene was on the northwest corner at Main Street (101-103-105 West Market Street). The awning on that building advertised BENDER & BARR who owned the Leader Department Store. The 1908 directory listed the store address as 101-103-105 West Market Street.

1. Directory of Wells County (Bluffton, IN: The Bluffton Banner, 1908). Available online at archive.org/stream/directoryofwells00bluf#page/n5/mode/2up. 2. Indiana Board of Pharmacy, Ninth Annual Report (Indianapolis, IN: William B. Burford, 1908). Available online at books.google.com/books?id=afjqAAAAMAAJ&printsec=front.... ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Barr in the Indiana, Death Certificates, 1899-2011

Name: Robert Barr Gender: Male Race: White Age: 80 Marital status: Widowed Birth Date: 20 Dec 1848 Birth Place: Paisley Scotland Death Date: 3 May 1929 Death Place: Bluffton, Wells, Indiana, USA Father: William Barr Mother: Isabella Baxter Spouse: Clesta Bennett Informant: W. R. Barr; Bluffton, Indiana Burial: May 5, 1929; Elm Grove Cemetery ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat 31 Dec 1915, Fri Page 1 (as originally published in the Bluffton Indiana News)

BRANCHING OUT

Announcement was made today that the five and ten cent store company in which James Lepper, of St. Marys, Ohio, Fred Barr, of Celina, and W. R. Barr, of this city, are interested will open a new store, within a few weeks, in Owensboro, Kentucky, and Mr. Lepper is arranging to go there to take charge of the new store. It will be located in a good city of 16,000 population.

The firm plans to open a second store in Kentucky a little later. The company also will operate two stores in Ohio, of which Fred H. Barr will have general supervision: the one at Celina and another in a city yet to be selected in place of the St. Marys store, which the company planned to dispose of. - Bluffton, Ind. News. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat., September 04, 1914 as orignially reported by Bluffton (Ind.) Daily News

BLUFFTON PEOPLE TAKE UP BESIDENCE IN CELINA Fred Barr and wife and daughter Helen, and Robert Barr left this morning for Celina, Ohio, where Fred Barr and family will reside. Mr. Barr will open a five and ten-cent store there. John Thomas accompanied the Barrs to assist in getting their goods installed

Mr. Barr and his family have moved into the Cron house, East Fayette Street, recently vacated by Fred Cron. Mr. Barr will open up a five and ten cent store in the Nungerter building, just vacated by the Commercial Bank, which is being improved by a new front. The new store will be ready for business about the middle of the month. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat 31 Dec 1915, Fri Page 1 (as originally published in the Bluffton Indiana News) Wednesday, March 28th. BRANCHING OUT

Announcement was made today that the five and ten cent store company in which James Lepper, of St. Marys, Ohio, Fred Barr, of Celina, and W. R. Barr, of this city, are interested will open a new store, within a few weeks, in Owensboro, Kentucky, and Mr. Lepper is arranging to go there to take charge of the new store. It will be located in a good city of 16,000 population.

The firm plans to open a second store in Kentucky a little later. The company also will operate two stores in Ohio, of which Fred H. Barr will have general supervision: the one at Celina and another in a city yet to be selected in place of the St. Marys store, which the company planned to dispose of. - Bluffton, Ind. News. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Standard History of Adams and Wells Counties Indiana. John W Tyndall for Adams Co and O. E. Lesh for Wells County. Chicago: The Lewis Publishing Company, 1918, pp. 485-487. Published 1918

William R. Barr Bluffton has been a center of trade and business for over three quarters of a century, and among those connected with the business, civic, social and religious life of the community William R. Barr is prominently numbered. The Leader Company, of which he is vice president and manager, is now and for some years past has been supplying a large part of the reliable merchandise distributed not only in Bluffton but throughout Wells County. That, however, is only one of Mr. Barr's active interests in the city.

By nativity he belongs to the city of Fort Wayne, where he was born April 27, 1874, a son of Robert and Lettie (Bennett) Barr. His mother was a daughter of Robert C. and Harriet (Deam) Bennett. Robert Barr, the father, was born in 1848, at Paisley, Scotland, where the famous shawls come from. When a small child he accompanied his mother to America, the first location being at Halifax and later moving to Rochester, New York, where Robert was reared and where he had a common school education. He learned his trade in machine shops in Rochester and from there came to Fort Wayne, Indiana, working in the Pennsylvania Railway shops and in 1880 came to Bluffton, where he entered the service of George W. Grimes in the latter's foundry and machine shop on the south side of Washington Street near the railroad. He was connected with that industry until the latter part of 1915 and was active in building up the industry as a manufactory of boilers, engines, mill machinery, architectural iron work and other products. He was a member of Bluffton Lodge No. 114, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which he served as noble grand, and in politics was a republican and filled the ounce of councilman one term. He is now living with his son William R. Barr. There were four children in the family, and the three now living are: William R.; Fred H., who is manager of a chain of 5 and 10-cent stores in which his brother William is also interested, his home being at Celina, Ohio; and Alice, a graduate of the Bluffton High School and the wife of James H. Lepper, who lives at Owensboro, Kentucky, where he is now active in the 5 and 10-cent business.

William R. Barr was six years of age when the family moved to Bluffton. Here he attended the public and high schools. At the age of seventeen he went to Rochester, New York, spending a year and a half employed with a party of civil engineers and at the same time continued his education by attending night school. Returning to Bluffton, Mr. Barr entered the service of G. F. McFarren, one of the oldest and best known merchants of Bluffton. He was with him until 1898, then, with William S. Smith, he bought the John W. Tribolet clothing store. At the end of five years Mr. Barr bought the interests of Mr. Smith, and then merged the store with the firm of Bender, Walmer & Barr. Five years later Mr. Walmer retired, turning over his interest to the other two partners.

The Leader Company was incorporated in 1908. Its present officers are: Samuel Bender, president; William R. Barr, vice president; Herbert H. Bender, secretary and treasurer, and the board of directors are Samuel Bender, Mr. Barr and Herbert H. Bender. Mr. Barr is also one of the directors of the W. B. Brown Company and is a member of the executive committee and director of the M. & R. Traction Company. He is also one of the directors of the Elm Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Barr is a York and Scottish Rite Mason, past master of his Masonic lodge and past eminent commander of the Knights Templar and also belongs to the Mystic Shrine. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and in politics is a republican.

Mr. Barr married Margaret Walling, of one of the old and well known families of Muncie, Indiana. She is a graduate of the Muncie High School. Her parents were Mark and Mary E. (Gilbert) Walling. Mr. and Mrs. Barr have an adopted daughter, Lois Barr, born August 17, 1904. Mrs. Barr was well educated in literature and music, and for several years taught music in the Bluffton public schools and has had active charge of the music of the Baptist Church for a number of years. Both are active members of this church and Mr. Barr is a teacher of a class enrolling about 250 members in the Sunday school. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- http://yesteryear.clunette.com/150yearspart4.html

Closure of WR Thomas store in Wabash March 3, 1990 -- As we hear it, one of Warsaw's oldest continually operating retail outlets closed over the weekend. The W.R. Thomas department store, along Buffalo Street, has closed its doors. The store opened in 1903. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- http://yesteryear.clunette.com/150yearspart2.html

Jan. 2, 1971 -- Flames erupting in the early morning New Year's dawn swept through the Pickwick block in downtown Syracuse, destroying everything in the quarter-block area except the Pickwick Theater and the S&N Plumbing and Heating Shop. Early estimates of damage will exceed $300,000.

Completely burned were the Jaycees Clubrooms, The Pickwick Lounge, The First Charter Finance Office and the large two-floor W.R. Thomas Variety Store. The theater building received severe heat, smoke and water damage as did the plumbing shop and a room formerly occupied by Doc's Shoe Repair Shop. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, May 12th, 1977

• • New Loan Officer - Dennis L. Piper**

Dennis L. Piper, a former Mercer Countian, has been named assistant cashier and installment loan manager at the Peoples Bank of Coldwater. Piper comes to Coldwater from the Greenville National Bank, where he served as assistant cashier and installment officer for the past five years. Prior to that, he served as assistant manager of the Barr Co. in Celina. Before joining the Greenville Bank, he managed the Barr Co. in Greenville for two years.

A Celina High School graduate in 1964, Piper attended Sinclair and Edison State College and completed courses on consumer credit at Kent State. He also attended the Ohio Banking School at Athens, Ohio.

Active in community affairs, Piper is a member of the Elks Club, Eagles, Lions, and is a former director of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. He is married to the former Vicki Spicer of Celina, and they have a son, Dan, and a daughter, Molly. They plan to move to Coldwater in the near future. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Page 12 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, September 3rd, 1937

The Barr Company 5¢ to $1.00 STORES Celina, Ohio

Children's HOSE

Size 10-4 All first quality 15c per pair 2 Pairs for 25c Back to School All school specifications as listed by the School Board are carried in this store.

YELLOW SCHOOL TABLETS

Size: 8x10 300 Pages Price: 8c SCHOOL Dresses

For ages 6 to 16 Prices: 59c and 98c LEAD PENCILS

5 for 5c CRAYONEX

8 colors for 10c 16 colors for 15c 4.5" SCISSORS

Price: 10c 6" SCISSORS

Price: 15c ARTISTA WATER COLORS

Price: 35c DINNER PAILS

With tray Prices: 15c and 25c Hot and Cold Bottles

Price: 69c BOYS Golf Hose

Price: 15c per pair SILK PANTIES

Prices: 10c and 15c ANKLETS

All new fall shades Price: 10c per pair MISSES Silk Hose

Price: 25c per pair ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 4 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Wednesday, April 27th, 1994 What did you do in the war, grandpa? by GENE WEBER

Ed Kuenning Ed Kuenning celebrated his 18th birthday on July 2, 1945, by reporting for induction into the United States Navy. After graduating from Memorial High School in St. Marys, Ed had enlisted in June and received orders to report on his 18th birthday. During his high school years, Ed worked after school and on Saturdays repairing shoes. Today, not many people remember that shoes were rationed for American civilians during World War II.

Ed was sent to Sampson, New York, in the Finger Lakes region for boot training. During this time, Japan surrendered, and the war came to an end. Germany had surrendered the previous May, while Ed was still in high school. After completing his boot training, Ed enjoyed a short leave at home in September 1945.

He then reported for duty on the West coast, in Washington. Ed recalls that since the war was over, no one seemed to know what to do with the new sailors at that time. They spent about a month in camp in Washington before being sent to Hawaii. During the voyage to Hawaii, they encountered a hurricane with massive waves. Upon arrival in Hawaii, Ed was assigned as a barracksmaster at the Aiea Naval Base, very near Pearl Harbor. He was in charge of a barracks for transient Navy men. Sailors with enough points for discharge would disembark from their ships as they arrived at Pearl Harbor and spend time in the transient barracks until their next voyage home. Most stayed for only one or two nights, and none stayed for more than a week. Ed's main responsibility was to maintain the barracks, which was relatively easy duty. Most of the men were eager to return home, although there were a few who were very thirsty after being at sea for months.

By the summer of 1946, most of the sailors who were leaving the service had been discharged, so Ed's duty came to an end. As the Navy was downsizing during this time, Ed was also sent back home and officially discharged on July 24, 1946.

Ed Kuenning was another young man who fulfilled his duty as his country asked. Although he did not experience combat, it was largely due to fortunate timing. His story may be different from many others, but it is a testament to his service during that period. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 16 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, January 25th, 2001 MERCER COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING

The Mercer County Council on Aging (MCCoA) recently welcomed four new trustees. John Wilson was elected to complete Lowell Dock's unexpired term, and Ed Jeffries assumed the unexpired term previously held by Al Pax. Additionally, Gary Conrad and Dick Oman were elected for three-year terms. Their duties as newly elected trustees began on January 1, 2001.

Two other trustees who resigned at the end of 2000 were Ed Kuenning and Bob Tlimbush. Ed Kuenning, an officer of the executive committee, served as treasurer for the past five years, chaired the personnel committee, and had been a trustee for nine years. Al Pax served as a trustee for four years and chaired the fiscal committee, while Bob Tlimbush served as a trustee for six years and chaired the transportation committee.

Lowell Dock, who resigned after eleven years on the Board, held various roles, including vice-president in 1990 and president for the past ten years. He also chaired the building and grounds maintenance committee and the health and safety committee.

The MCCoA Board convenes monthly, with meetings typically held on the second Thursday at 1 p.m. in the conference room of the Senior Citizen Center located at 217 Riley Street in Celina. These meetings are open to the public. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, June 3rd, 1965

HOLIDAY on July 30 - Sidewalk sales from 10 AM to 1 PM. A single football game will be played. It's a day for kids when they can bounce around. All day, there will be a Saline Dance built on his court. Hailey I. Omi blocked in Moll bonnie. Many tallinn drillal parades. Similar to Al Ill-10 Shopping Center down Main to Grand Lake. Begins at 8 PM.

On Saturday, July 31 - Sidewalk sales from 9 AM to 6 PM. Festival sales all day. Kiddies' rides on Fayette Street all day. Lake Parade by the Lake Improvement Association at 3 PM on the lake. Fireworks on Grand Lake at 9:15 PM. Queen's Ball at 9:30 PM at Green Acres Ball Room.

SUNDAY, August 1 - Governors Cup Regatta on Grand Lake (Celina area) featuring inboard hydroplanes in all classes. Sponsored by Celina Lions Club and the St. Marys Boat Club.

On Friday evening, July 29, the Queen of the 1865 Festival will be chosen in a "Miss America" type pageant in the Celina Field House. This program will start at 8 PM. For any information concerning the festival, the following may be contacted:

- General Chairman: Elmer Schweitzer, Celina Music Store, Celina, Ohio. - Queen's Contest: Robert Barger, P & B Super Market, Celina. - Street Parade: John Romig, First National Bank, Celina. - Fireworks: Pat McKirnan, Celina Coffee Shop, Celina. - Program (booklet): Ed Kuenning, Barr Company, Celina. - Advertising: W.J. Schindler, Chamber of Commerce, Celina.

The Celina Lake Festival part is sponsored by the Retail Merchants Division, Celina Chamber of Commerce, Inc. The Governor's Cup Regatta is sponsored by the Celina Lions Club and the St. Marys Boat Club." ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Here's the corrected formatting of the newspaper article: Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, July 26th, 1962

• • Crowning Of Lake Queen - On Friday**

The three-day annual Grand Lake Festival at Celina will get underway on Friday, July 27, and will run through Sunday, July 29. The affair will begin with sidewalk sales on Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM with Celina merchants participating.

The highlight of the day will be the Queen’s Parade scheduled at 7:30 PM with bands from Celina High, Marion, Ft. Recovery, St. Henry, and other marching units. The eight candidates for Festival Queen will ride in convertibles, and the one chosen queen on Thursday night will be crowned following the parade in front of the courthouse. The eight contenders for the title are Becky Lincoln, Jean Bryan, Carolyn Zumberge, Carol Ann Westgerdes, Karen Puthoff, Rebecca Cook, Nicki Lacy, and Mary Ann Wanemacher. Last year’s queen, Judy Menchhofer, will crown the new queen. Following the crowning ceremonies, a square dance exhibition will take place in the courthouse area. Kiddie rides and concessions will be available all day Friday.

Again on Saturday, the sidewalk sales will continue from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, as well as the kiddie rides and various concessions. At 4:00 PM, the Queen’s Lake Parade on Grand Lake will commence with over 60 boat entries. The parade will start at Coldwater Creek Landing, move the two miles to Celina, and then along Lake Shore Drive. Prizes will be awarded in ten classifications of boats and floats. The Queen’s Ball will be held at the Celina Legion Hall beginning at 9:00 PM. Fireworks are also scheduled for 9:00 PM on Saturday on a barge on Grand Lake. Boat dealers will display their boating equipment all day Friday and Saturday on West Market Street, on the south side of the courthouse.

The Governor’s Cup Regatta boat races sponsored by the Celina Lions Club and the St. Marys Boat Club will be held on Sunday, bringing entries from all over the county. Twenty-one trophies will be awarded in seven classifications. The Lake Improvement Association will be in charge of the float parade, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary will patrol the lake. A much larger crowd than last year’s is anticipated. Members of the Celina Retail Merchants Committee in charge of arrangements are: Dan Schreibman, Chairman, Ed Kuenning, Bill Schindler, Elmer Schweitzer, Bob Barger, Bill Haffey, Bill Rankin, and Clyde Cook. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 12 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, October 4th, 1979 WANTED Responsible person for MANAGEMENT TRAINING Sound future for the right individual with a growing chain. Apply in person to Ed Kuenning BARR'S Downtown Celina ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- August 1979 WANTED RESPONSIBLE PERSON FOR MANAGEMENT TRAINING Sound Future for the right individual with growing chain. Apply in person to ED KUENNING Mon. thru Sat 9 a.m to 5 p m BARR'S Downtown Celina

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Diana Meiring, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Meiring, Fort Recovery, is the 1973 Celina Lake Festival Queen. She was selected over 12 other girls Monday night at the Mercer County Fairgrounds before the largest crowd ever at the contest.

Miss Meiring is a 1973 graduate of Fort Recovery High School and was valedictorian of her class. She will attend Ohio State University this fall as an honor student in pre-med. She was sponsored in the contest by the Fort Recovery Chamber of Commerce.

Named first runner-up by the three judges was Druann Kuenning, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Kuenning of Celina. She was sponsored by the Celina Lions Club.

Henni Lou Shaffer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Max Shaffer, Mendon, was second runner-up. She was sponsored by the Western Ohio Branch of Wright State University.

Miss Meiring received the Queen’s Trophy from the Daily Standard, the crown, and $50. Miss Kuenning won a trophy and $25, and Miss Shaffer received a trophy and $15.

1972 Lake Festival Queen Margo Ayres of Celina crowned the new queen at about 11:30. Miss Meiring presented a vocal selection from "South Pacific” during the talent portion of the program.

Barbara Watts, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Watts, Coldwater, was named by the contestants as Miss Congeniality. Sponsored by the Celina Sertoma Club, she received a plaque.

Scott Allen of Celina Radio Station WMER was the master of ceremonies for the event. The judges were George and Mary Ella Boyer of Trotwood, and Ms. Cen Acheson of Eaton. Contest Chairman was Dwight Knootz. Celina Music Store provided the music and audio equipment, while Venetian Gardens, Celina, enhanced the stage with floral arrangements.

Other contestants and their sponsors were Heather Maurer, First National Bank of Mercer County, Mendon; Kathy Burden, National Bank of Mercer County, Celina; Karen Hennessey, Retail Merchants, Celina Chamber of Commerce; Lois Hock, Celina Thespian Troupe; Lyn Makley, Celina Coffee Shop; Elise Ayers, Citizens Commercial Bank; Holly Wood, First National Bank; and Kim Strittmeyer, First National Bank of Mercer County, Rockford." ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, August 17th, 1972 "The Mercer County Jury Commission has drawn a 25-name venire for the September term of the Mercer County Grand Jury and a 45-name list for petit jurors.

Possible names selected by the Commission for the grand jury are:

- Mary Kuhn, Coldwater - Victor Siefring, Rt. 1, St. Henry - Carl Walker, Rt. 2, Celina - Roman Stein, Fort Recovery - Donald Roth, Coldwater - Mildred Bollenbacher, Rockford - Junior Carl Linn, Rt. 1, Rockford - Gladys L. Shadoan, Rt. 2, Celina - Lucille Nuding, Rt. 3, Celina - Joseph Baesch, Maria Stein - Joe F. Johnson, Sleepy Hollow Trailer Court, Celina - Edith Olhbaugh, Rt. 3, Celina - Dan R. Peterson, Rt. 4, Celina - Eugene Brunswick, St. Henry - Jennie Green, 502 S. Sugar St., Celina - Eva Miller, Rt. 1, Mendon - Hazel M. Siler, 528 N. Cherry St., Celina - Mary Lou Goodwin, Rockford - B. J. Swonger, Rt. 4, Celina - Harmon Rockhold, Rt. 1, Mendon - Robert L. Freemeyer, Fort Recovery - Rosemary Kaiser, Coldwater - Grace Springer, 120 N. Lake St., Celina - Matilda Starr, 304 W. Fayette St., Celina - Janet Brunswick, Rt. 1, St. Henry

Names of prospective petit jurors are:

- Harold E. Jamieson, Rt. 1, Fort Recovery - Carl Wendel, Rt. 3, Celina - Robert Forsthoefel, Coldwater - Norb Osterholt, St. Henry - Matilda Hare, 301 S. Brandon Ave., Celina - Elaine Detwiler, Rt. 5, Celina - Alice Tittle, Coldwater - Robert Springer, 222 S. Walnut St., Celina - Joseph Amato, Coldwater - Dorothy Bomholt, Maria Stein - Pearl Wood, Rt. 1, Rockford - Norman Klosterman, Rt. 1, Celina - Mary Ann Gebele, Coldwater - Leo Abels, Rt. 2, Fort Recovery - Ed Kuenning, 524 W. Fayette St., Celina - Martha P. Heck, Mendon - Cletus L. Prenger, Maria Stein - Mazie A. Baker, Rt. 1, Celina - Alice Hellwarth, Rt. 1, Celina - William Dorsey, Rt. 1, Celina - Mable E. Elder, 225 N. Enterprise St., Celina - Katherine TgIsh, Rockford - Vincent Ontrop, St. Henry - Leonard Homan, Rt. 1, Coldwater - Robert Wagner, Bachar Rd., Celina - Emmett Miller, Mendon - Boyd Bogart, Mendon - Martha Rosenbeck, Chickasaw - Marian F. Abrams, 215 E. Oak St., Celina - Linda Hartings, Maria Stein - Bertha K. Ground, Rt. 1, Rockford - David F. Carr, Rt. 1, Willshire - Stanley Homan, Chickasaw - Ford Koeppel, Rockford - Lucy Hoelscher, Rt. 2, Celina - Sandra Schaffner, Rockford - Mary Helen Willrath, Mendon - Ruth Koesters, Coldwater - Richard Springer, 506 N. Ash St., Celina - Teddy L. Ballinger, 1212 W. Market St., Celina - Bartel Desch, Coldwater - David Bigham, Rt. 1, Rockford - Rosalyn Muhlenkamp, Rt. 2, Fort Recovery - Harley Seibert, Mendon - Bertha McCrary, 718 Wilkins St., Celina ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 9 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, November 18th, 1999 PHOTO Karl and Odessa Klopfleisch, Wilma and Ed Kuenning enjoy the open-air atmosphere during the Celina Open House! ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Page 6 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, March 25th, 1938

Certainly, here's the cleaned-up version of the text:

• • The Barr Company**

5¢ TO 10¢ STORES CELINA, OHIO

• • EXTRA FEATURES FOR THE Spring Style Show**

March 24, 25, and 26 In Cooperation with Mercer Co. Sportsmen Association

- **GOLD FISH**

 - For your outdoor pools
 - 1 to 5.1 inches
 - Price: 10c

- **2-Piece Steel Fishing Rods**

 - Price: 25c

- **Ladies PRINT DRESSES**

 - All new for this event
 - Sizes: 11 to 62
 - Price: 39c

- **CARD TABLES**

 - Built extra strong and folding
 - Price: 98c

- **Costume Jewelry**

 - Lockets, Crosses, and the new Spider Pins
 - Prices: 10c and 25c

- **Ladies Ringless CHIFFON HOSE**

 - Alicor, guaranteed first
 - All new Easter shades
 - Price: 59c

- **Coat and Dress Flowers**

 - Prices: 10c and 25c

- **Ladies Bemberg SILK SLIPS**

 - For the Easter holidays
 - Price: 98c

- **Easter Candies**

 - Prices: 10c to 15c per pound
 - Hershey's Milk Chocolates: 20c per pound

- **MILLINERY**

 - All new this week
 - Prices: 98c and $1.69

- **New Lamp Shades**

 - Prices: 25c, 39c, 69c

- **Easter Novelties on Special Display**

 - Prices: 5c to 50c

- **Ladies Knee-High Pure Thread SILK HOSE**

 - Price: 25c

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, December 2nd, 1949

• • Fred Barr Fined and Sentenced for Driving Charge**

In a recent legal proceeding, Fred H. Barr, a 71-year-old businessman from Celina, faced the consequences of his actions. He was fined $100 and required to cover the associated costs. Additionally, he received a 10-day jail sentence in the county jail. Furthermore, his driver's license was suspended for a period of one year. These penalties were imposed when he appeared before Judge Paul P. Dull in the Mercer County Common Pleas Court on Monday.

The charges against Barr stemmed from an incident on November 5th when he was arrested by the Celina police. He was charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Initially, he had pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, during his arraignment, he chose to change his plea, doing so through his legal representation provided by Short and Dull.

This legal outcome serves as a reminder of the consequences of driving under the influence, emphasizing the importance of responsible and safe conduct on the road. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 3 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, February 17th, 1933

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Barr were called to Bluffton, Indiana, last Sunday by the death of Mr. Barr’s sister-in-law, Mrs. Wm. Barr, who passed away Sunday morning after a lingering illness. The deceased has often visited in Celina, and her friends here are pained to learn of her death. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 6 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, February 5th, 1932

The following county officials and businesspersons from Celina attended a hearing by the Public Utilities Commission in Columbus on Wednesday. The purpose of the hearing was to establish Buckeye Stages, Incorporated, a transportation route from Columbus through Celina to Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Chicago, Illinois. Those in attendance included:

- Commissioner Fred F. Goetemoeller - Auditor H. A. Fennig - Mayor C. D. Rice - K. R. Wyckoff - Thomas J. Mersman - Wm. H. Hecht - Frank Sommers - P. L. Luebke - John Spriggs - I. W. Pogue - Fred Barr - Mark Beckman - Karl Schlenker - Probate Judge Raymond A. Younger - Herbert W. Schindler, Secretary of the Mercer County Automobile Club

They gathered to participate in discussions related to this transportation initiative. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, February 13th, 1925

• • REAL ESTATE TRANSFER**

John A. Cron transferred a portion of lots 267 and 276 in Celina to Wm and Fred Barr for $23,000. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 14 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, December 6th, 1929

The Celina Kiwanis Club has unanimously elected the following officers for 1930: I. W. Pogue president; Frank Dine, vice president; Lawrence Kemnklus, trustee; Otis Johnson, Fred Barr, Ed McKirnnn, U. H. Anderson, F. D. Sweignrl, C. W. Vaio, and Leo Heckler, directors. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 8 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, May 10th, 1929

Robert Barr, 80, father of Fred Barr, of Celina, died at Bluffton, Ind., Friday after an illness of complications of several months. He was well known here. Two sons survive. Funeral and burial took place at Bluffton Sunday afternoon. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 5 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, February 27th, 1942

Mrs. Fred Barr, who has been under treatment at the Gibbons Hospital was removed to her home on Sunday ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, April 25th, 1941

ROEMER BUILDING SOLD TO FRED BARR The building now occupied by the J.A. Roemer company has been purchased by Fred Barr, of Celina. The building was purchased by C.A. Stubbs some months ago and the title will be transferred to Mr. Barr on July 1st. It was formerly owned by the heirs of the late Roemer. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, October 8th, 1964

Fred Barr, 75, who last week observed his 40th year in business in Celina, died Monday morning. He w as found dead in his home Monday morning ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, September 24th, 1964

Over 7,000 Attend Barr's 50th Anniv. Celebration Sales The management of the Barr Co., in Celina, was more than satisfied with the turnout over the weekend for the 50th-anniversary celebration of the company. Over 7,000 people registered for the free gifts.

Two customers who were at the store when it opened its doors 50 years ago, Mrs. Robert Andrews of Celina rural route and Mrs. Steve Bellinger of N Mill street, Celina, were on hand for the celebration. Also present were Mrs. Beatrice Deardoff and Mrs. Ralph Merlz, who were two of Mr. Barr's first employees.

The Barr Co. now has stores in Celina (headquarters), Greenville, Kenton, Frankfort, Indiana, and Monticello, Indiana. The founders were Fred and Will Barr. The owners now are Mrs. Robert Neer, daughter of Fred Barr, and Mrs. Will Barr. The general manager is Mr. Robert Sincy, and Edward Kuenning is the Celina store manager.

Winners of the 50th-anniversary drawing are as follows: - Admiral Music Center: Mrs. Leander Tangeman, Chickasaw. - Chair Hair Dryer: Mrs. Joseph Nerderman, Celina route 1. - Stand Hair Dryer: Bessie Schroyer, Celina route 1. - Boy's Bicycle: Lloyd Schell, St. Marys. - Girl's Bicycle: Kathy Balanier, Dayton. - Sabre Saw: Roy Lee Hook, Rockford. - 3/8" Drill: H. Bowden, Celina. - 7" Power Saw: Eugene Frysinger, Mendon. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 8 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, July 20th, 1961

Daughter Of Former Mercer Countian Weds The Urbana Methodist Church was the setting for the late June wedding uniting in marriage Miss Susan Elaine Smith of St. Paris and Frederick Joseph Neer of Urbana. The bridegroom's parents are Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Neer. Mrs. Neer is the daughter of the late Fred Barr of Celina. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace E. Smith of St. Paris are the bride's parents.

Attendants to the bride were Mrs. Carl Palecliek of Toledo as matron of honor, and Miss Janet Bausman of Piqua as bridesmaid, both college roommates of the bride. Other bridesmaids were the bridegroom's sister, Miss Nancy Neer, Mrs. Price Lewis of Columbus, and Miss Sue Stockton of St. Paris. Harriette Miller was the flower girl.

The bridegroom's brother, Dr. Robert Neer, Jr., of New York City, was best man. Seating the guests were Ned Kirby and Robert Nau of Urbana, Stanley Smith of St. Paris, the bride's brother John Smith, Price Lewis, and John Huston of Columbus.

The newlyweds sailed June 25 from Los Angeles for a wedding trip to Hawaii. After their return August 1, they will reside at 1129 Sells Ave., Columbus.

A bridal dinner the evening before the wedding was given by Mr. and Mrs. Neer. Attending from Celina were Mrs. Earl Dull and daughter Caroline, Mrs. Roger Ciapp and daughter Sondra. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 13 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, March 5th, 1937

CELINA COMMERCIAL CLUB. The directors of the Commercial Club, Celina, composed of C. A. Stubbs, Hugo Rentzsch, Fred Barr, B. A. Myers, E. J. Brookhart, Earl Schlenker, Merle T. Casey, Lawrence Schunck, and Herbert W. Schindler, elected at the last annual meeting the following officers for the coming year:

- C. A. Stubbs, president - Hugo Rentzsch, president of the Merchant's Committee - Karl Schlenker, president of the Industrial Committee - Lawrence Schunck, treasurer - Herbert W. Schindler, secretary - Parker Snyder, publicity manager

Other committees will be appointed by the chairman, Mr. Stubbs, at a future date. Currently, the club will launch a membership drive to increase the number of members. Each member will be presented with a copper plate to be placed on the door of their place of business to signify that they are members and endorse the club's initiatives. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 3 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, October 1st, 1954

Fred Barr Dies Monday Morning At His Home

Funeral services for Fred H. Barr, 75, prominent Celina merchant, were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Vale Funeral home. Dr. Don Mueller officiated, and burial was made in North Grove Cemetery.

The deceased, who last week observed his 40th year in business in Celina, was found dead Monday morning in his home in Celina. He was a member of St. Paul’s Methodist church. His wife died in 1950.

He is survived by his only daughter Helen, the son-in-law, and three grandchildren, Robert, Fred, and Nancy Neer of Urbana, and his brother William Barr of Bluffton. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 5 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, July 21st, 1950

MRS. FRED BARR

Funeral services for Mrs. Mae Eiter Barr, 68, of Celina, were held Monday at 2:30 p.m., at the Barr residence. Rev. G. Glen Hughes officiated, and interment was made in North Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Barr died Friday at 6:30 p.m., in a Marion hospital following a long illness. She was born to the late Henry and Mary Brown Eiter on June 4, 1882. She graduated from the Ft. Wayne high school in 1902 and from Ft. Wayne normal school in 1904 and taught school four years. On June 30, 1908, she married Fred Barr, who survives.

She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Survivors, in addition to her widower, include a daughter, Mrs. Robert Neer of Urbana, and three grandchildren ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, January 24th, 1947

Fred Barr, Celina, Fined $125 on Two Counts Last Saturday

Fred Barr, Celina businessman, was fined $125 and costs on two counts, as the result of an accident which involved four cars in Celina Friday night. Barr was fined $100 for leaving the scene of an accident and $25 for intoxication. Justice of the Peace Ray Casteel also recommended suspension of Barr's driver’s license for 5 years. Casteel said Barr's car struck three other cars parked on Main street between Market and Fayette. Barr agreed to pay for the damages to the other cars at the hearing held Saturday afternoon. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Page 7 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, September 4th, 1936

• • THE BARR COMPANY**

5c to $1.00 STORES CELINA, OHIO

Thursday, Friday and Saturday Are Thrift Days STORE OPEN THURSDAY NIGHT

EXTRA FEATURES

- **200 Dozen Children's HOSE**

 - Sizes: 5¢ to 10¢ - First Quality
 - Fun Colors - 1 lb. = 10¢
 - Pair

- **Lead Pencil Special**

 - The Largest Number Ever Offered by the Store
 - **CEDAR PENCILS**
   - 5 for 10¢
 - **Metal Tip Pencils**
   - 5¢ for 5¢ and 2 for 5¢

- **Dinner Pails**

 - With Tin Tray
 - 15¢

- **School Scissors**

 - Blunt and Pointed Ends
 - 10¢

- **Lunch Boxes**

 - With Pint Size Vacuum Bottles - Complete
 - $1.19

- **FOUNTAIN PENS**

 - With Gold Points

- **Combination Pen and Pencil**

 - 20¢

- **Propelling Pencil**

 - 10¢

- **Misses Plaited Hose**

 - Extra Long - Pair 25¢

- **Misses 7 - 8 Hose**

 - In Plain and Fancy Cuffs - 20¢

- **SCHOOL DRESSES**

 - Age 6 to 16
 - 98¢
 - All vat dyed in many Fall Styles

- **CRAYONS**

 - 2 for 5¢
 - 5¢ | 10¢

- **School Tablets**

 - Yellow Tablets
 - 8¢ | 5¢

- **Loose Leaf BINDERS**

 - With 25 Sheets Paper - 10¢

- **Every Needed School Item**

 - For all schools will be found on special display with extra sales people during these three days.

- **Blue Chambray SHIRTS**

 - Size 14½ to 17½
 - Special - 49¢

- **Drawing Sets and Pencil Boxes**

 - 10¢ and 20¢

- **Extra Special!**

 - **Boys Four-In-Hand or Ready Tied**
 - **Lunch Boxes**
   - Double Handle with Pie Tray - 25¢

- **MISSES BLOUSES**

 - White or Colored
 - 98¢ Value
 - 69¢

- **Tooth Paste and Powders**

 - Colgates - Listerine - Pepsodent
 - 10¢ and 20¢

- **DR. PASTEUR’S Tooth Brushes**

 - 10¢

- **PRANG’S Water Colors**

 - 35¢

- **Extra Specials On Sale Thursday**

 - **75 DOZEN Rayon Panties**
   - Step-ins and Teddies - For Women and Children
   - 10¢

- **Boys and Young Men Fancy Hose**

 - Sizes 10 to 18
 - Pair - 10¢

- **BARR’S SPECIAL MIXED CANDY**

 - 10¢ Lb.

- **PAPER BRIEF CASES**

 - 10¢

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Bryan Times Nov 27, 1993

• • New Mini-Mall Planned**
• ANGOLA, Ind.* - The vacant Thomas Family Center, a downtown retail store owned by W. R. Thomas Inc. of Warsaw, Ind., has been sold and will be converted into a mini-mall.

Brad Thomas, a Waterloo attorney (not related to the store owner), is near closing the sale with another partner. He declined to reveal the sale price of the 24,500-square-foot building at 205 West Maumee St. and the rear parking lot. The building has been vacant since early 1991.

Mr. Thomas said he has been meeting with a contractor who has converted similar buildings into mini-malls. The target reopening date is in January. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, June 17th, 1938

• • Barr Opening Set for This Friday, June 17.**

The Barr Company, located in Celina, Ohio, and managed by Fred Barr, was first opened for business in that village in 1914. At that time, Mr. Barr operated a 5 cents to $1 store and has grown to rank among the successful and progressive merchants of Celina and Mercer County.

Now, through the volume of business that this store does, it required the building to be remodeled and enlarged to adequately take care of the increased business.

The grand opening of this new and modern addition will be held on Friday morning, June 17th, at 9:00 a.m. This newly rebuilt modern store has a floor capacity of 5,550 square feet with a storeroom under the entire building. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Page 6 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, January 18th, 1946

• • THE BARR COMPANY**

5¢ TO $1.00 STORES CLOSE OUT OF ITEMS IN THIS Annual

Are not enough for stock in many cases, and some soiled textiles at less than ½ of Replacement Values.

- **Ladies' FARMERETTES AND JEEP SUITS**

 - $3.69 Values
 - $3.38

- **Children's PLAID SKIRTS**

 - Sizes: 6 - 7 - 8 - 9
 - $1.95 values
 - 98c

- **BOYS' WIND BREAKERS**

 - 98c
 - $2.00 values
 - Knit Collars and Cuffs

- **Ladies' HEAD SCARFS**

 - 69c value
 - 25c

- **Children's White ANKLETS**

 - All Sizes
 - 10¢ pair

- **Infant's CAP AND SWEATER SETS**

 - 98c and 89c values
 - 49c

- **V-Mail STATIONERY**

 - 25c value
 - 5¢

- **Gray ENAMEL PANS**

 - 1 quart 15¢
 - 2 quart 20¢
 - 3 quart 75¢

- **LADIES' BLOUSES**

 - $2.98 value
 - $1.98
 - $1.00 value
 - 98¢

- **Ladies' 1945 FALL PURSES**

 - Choice 25¢

- **Children's 3-Piece SNOW SUITS**

 - Sizes: 1-2-3
 - $5.89 value
 - $3.69
 - HASH DISPLAY
 - ONE HOUR SALE
 - 39c value 5¢
 - 25c value 3¢

- **Infant’s Fall HOODS**

 - 69c value
 - 25¢

- **Infant's SACQUES**

 - Two Groups
 - 25¢ and 15¢

- **Ladies’ Sanitary NAPKINS**

 - Box of 12
 - 10¢

- **STAMPED GOODS**

 - 25¢ to 69¢ Values
 - 6 Dozen Ladies'
 - 10¢ SLACKS
 - Values to $3.98
 - 98¢

- **LADIES' SKIRTS**

 - All New—$2.69 value
 - 98¢
 - $3.98 to $5.98—All New
 - 98¢

- **Ladies' Flannel Lined JACKETS**

 - $6.95 Values
 - $1.98

- **Men's SUSPENDERS**

 - 69¢ value
 - 25¢

- **Boxed STATIONERY**

 - 49¢ value
 - 10¢

- **25¢ value POLISHED ALUMINUM OVENWARE**

 - 49¢

- **WASTE PAPER BASKETS**

 - 25¢

- **CANDY DEPARTMENT**

 - ONE-HALF POUND
 - FIGS— 12¢
 - ONE POUND
 - FIGS— 24¢
 - Thinshe11 Filled Hard Candies, in Jars lb. 35¢
 - Almonds, pound 43¢
 - Hershey Bars 5¢
 - Pecans, pound 40¢
 - Walnuts, pound
 - Spangler Bars 5¢
 - Marshmallow Topping, pint Jar 20¢

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- March 25, 1964 Steuben Republican from Angola, Indiana • Page 3 Publication: Steuben Republicani Location: Angola, Indiana Issue Date: Wednesday, March 25, 1964 Page: 3

W.R. Thomas To Have Store In Syracuse

Russell M. Spear, owner of the W. R. Thomas variety store in Warsaw, announced today that the firm has leased a store building in the Pickwick block in Syracuse.

The new store will be located in the quarters formerly vacated by the Thomburg Drug Co. Spear stated that the new store would have two sales floors and 4.800 square feet of display area. The Hodges Construction of Warsaw, is presently employed in remodeling the structure. The W. R.

Thomas firm with main offices in Warsaw, has been in business for 60 years. The Syracuse store will be the eighth store in the chain. Spear stated the Syracuse store will be modern in every respect, with self-service. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Page 2 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, December 15th, 1960

THE BARR COMPANY 5¢ to $1.00 Store – Celina, Ohio

Make The Barr Company your Christmas Gift Shopping Center. Find gifts for the entire family at prices that will save you money.

VARIETIES OF Fresh Bulk Christmas Candies See us for your treat requirements.

Our Gift Wrap Department is fully stocked with high-quality wrapping and novelties to give your packages a touch of elegance.

Visit Our Large Basement TOY DEPARTMENT Bring the kiddies and let them browse around. It's fun! ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pages 1 and 4 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, September 16th, 1965

Barr Company Marks 51st Anniversary

The Barr Company in Celina will mark its 51st anniversary on Friday and Saturday, September 17 and 18, with a special sale. The store, presently employing 30 sales clerks and occupying more than 14,000 square feet of merchandising space in the downtown business district of Celina, began operations in 1914 with four clerks and slightly more than 1,000 square feet of store space.

Five merchandise prizes will be offered, no purchase necessary, to persons registering at the store Friday and Saturday. A drawing is scheduled at 9 p.m. Saturday, and winners will receive either a three-piece set of luggage (first prize), a pole lamp (second prize), an aluminum folding cot complete with foam mattress (third prize), a full-size Cannon blanket (fourth prize), or an electric kitchen clock (fifth prize).

Check the Chronicle ad this week and attend the anniversary event Friday and Saturday. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat 09 Apr 1915, Fri Page 1

THE BIG-LITTLE STORE One of the Most Interesting Shopping Centers in Celina.

It is the little things that count the most after all, as is demonstrated in the remarkable success accorded the stores of the large cities over the United States. It is simply astonishing what one can find on the counters of a modern store of this kind, and the price is even more astonishing, as is shown by a sightseeing trip through the Barr-Lepper store in this city.

A few pennies will go farther here than in any store on earth in buying the useful, the ornamental, the practical, and the necessary little things of life. Of course, these stores must have owners who are on the inside in order to be able to buy. In the case of the Barr-Lepper store, there is not any question but that the owners looked before they leaped into the business, and it's dollars to cheap cigars that they are buying as cheap today as the larger stores in the metropolitan states, as they are offering our people from day to day the most wonderful bargains at very little money.

The store is filling a long-felt want in the community and is a success that rides credit to the mercantile career of the proprietors and to the business judgment and ability of Mr. Fred Barr, the manager. He is a business man who has become very popular here, and his many friends predict for him a career that will be worthy of commendation.

The fact that they have a string of stores gives them an edge on the market over houses not thus connected. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mercer County Chronicle Thursday , August 17th, 1967

Barr Co. in Celina Building Warehouse

The construction of a 14,000-square-foot warehouse building for the Barr Company in Celina is currently in progress, as announced by the President and General Manager, Robert Sincy.

The new building is situated at the corner of Elm Street and Schunek Road in the southwest part of Celina. The land was recently purchased from Matt Schwieterman.

Additionally, the general offices of the Barr Company, presently located on the second floor of the Main Street store, will be relocated to the new building. The second floor of the store will be repurposed to create an expanded retail area.

The Barr Company operates stores in Celina, Greenville, Hicksville, Kenton, Frankfort, and Monticello, Indiana. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.kpcnews.com/news/latest/newssun/article_9e872bc3-1600-5fb8-b2b5-d8163601fe0f.html

Owner not sure what’s next for property By Patrick Redmond Sep 13, 2017 predmond@kpcmedia.com LAGRANGE — Robert Zynda stood across the street from the Family Dollar store Tuesday morning, watching a fire burn through the building he owns. He took out his cellphone and called his insurance agent. “Tell him this Bob Zynda. Tell him this is an emergency, My buildings are burning down,” he said to the person on the other end of the call. Fire destroyed the building that housed LaGrange’s Family Dollar store and the building to its south containing Gould Sports, a local custom sports apparel business. Zynda owned both buildings. Wednesday morning, Zynda said he isn’t sure what will happen to the property. “I don’t know,” he said. The three-story Family Dollar building was built in the late 1890s. Over the course of its history, it has been home to a variety of businesses, said LaGrange County historian Bryan McCoy. At one time, the building housed a grocery store and butcher shop. It’s also been the site of a clothing store and a restaurant. Office space on the second floor hosted a variety of professional services businesses, such as life insurance, throughout the building’s more than 100-year history. McCoy said he believed W.R Thomas bought the building in the 1950s and set up a variety store. The company had stores in LaGrange, Warsaw and Angola, as well as Michigan and Ohio. Zynda bought the property in 1992 but said his connection to the building goes back much further. He came to LaGrange in the 1960s after he was hired by the W.R. Thomas company to manage its store. Zynda stayed in that job for more than a dozen years before leaving to manage a newly remodeled and larger W.R. Thomas store in Angola. Three years later, he was promoted to the chain’s regional manager. “This one was special, because we lived here. We raised all our kids here,” Zynda said. He bought both buildings from W.R. Thomas after the company folded and then leased one to Family Dollar. He said the LaGrange store was profitable. Zynda said despite his loss, he’s OK. “A couple of guys I know called and wanted to play golf, and I said OK,” he said Wednesday. “So I’m going to finish playing and then not worry about anything after that.” The building was insured. Zynda said he recently spent tens of thousands of dollars putting a new roof on it. The big question now is what happens to the property. Zynda said it’s still too early to know. “I don’t know what’s going to happen,” he said. “That’s still up in the air. We’ll just have to see what happens. You just never know.” ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P. Jeffery “T-Bone” Spear Obituary P. Jeffery “T-Bone” Spear, age 62, of Warsaw, Indiana passed away Thursday, March 7, 2019 in his residence. He was born on August 17, 1956 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Phil and Rosalee (Bauman) Spear. He was a lifetime resident of Warsaw and graduated from Warsaw Community High School. He then went on to further his education at Lincoln Tech in Indianapolis where he graduated in 1976 with a degree in Diesel Mechanics. T-Bone was the Vice President at W.R. Thomas Variety Stores and was also the owner and developer of Lake Park Estates and Sugar Creek Estates. He is survived by his mother; Rosalee Spear of Warsaw, children; Jenna (spouse Eric) DeFord of Warsaw, Sara (spouse Steve) Hollar of Leesburg, IN, sister; Julie (spouse Curt) Schultz of Valparaiso, IN, nephews; Grant Schultz of Valparaiso, IN, Kyle (spouse Kristina) Schultz of Valparaiso, IN, grandchildren; Braxton and Zach DeFord both of Warsaw, Khloe and Logan Hollar both of Leesburg, IN. He was preceded in death by his father; Phil Spear. A Memorial Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2019 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM in McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw. Interment will be private and will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to: Baker Youth Club 1401 E. Smith St. Warsaw, IN 46580 ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 26 May 1972, Fri ·Page 2

History of Barr Company Has Been Expansion and Improvement Since It Began Operations

The history of the Barr Company has been one of improvement and expansion since it began operations in Greenville in the 1920's.

During the roaring 20's the Barr store was located where the Van Bebber's Jewelry store is now. Then the Trick Brother's 5 and 10 was where the Barr Co. is presently.

After the Trick Brothers, it was the McCillens 5 and 10. Then the Barr Co. moved in where it has stayed to date.

While both McCillens and Barrs were giving each other stiff competition, Barrs would sell ice cream out on the sidewalk and would keep its doors open on Saturdays until 10:30 p.m.

In 1934 Barr's then took over McCillers. The size of the store at that time was 3,420 square feet.

In 1958 Barr's added a room to the rear of the store which increased the size of the store by another 760 square feet.

The year 1963 brought a great deal of innovation and addition in the store's appearance and size. A new lower-level sales floor was added. The latest styles and fixtures also became a part of the new Barr store.

Again in 1964 Barr's expanded. The Value Dress Store directly north of the Barr Co. was added. The room made another addition of 2,200 square footage available.

The whole room is used today for ladies apparel. Other remodeling was done in 1964. A new front was also added to help modernize the store.

In 1967, a warehouse was built in Celina for the Barr Company. It will assist them in receiving freight much faster.

In April of this year, twenty-two-year-old Joseph Fogle became the manager of the local Barr Store.

He was trained in the office at Celina and has been with another large chain store for 3 1/2 years. Mr. Fogle graduated from high school from Washington, Indiana. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 27 Apr 1932, Wed ·Page 1

MOTOR CAR IS STOLEN; POLICE HUNT IS BEGUN Chevrolet Coupe of 1931 Vintage, Owned by Barr Company Manager, Is Driven Away From in Front of Home Hotel, East Third Street, Early This Morning.

K. E. Werts, manager of the Barr Company's store on South Broadway, Greenville, has solicited local police aid in recovering his car, a 1931 model Chevrolet coupe, which was driven away from a parking place in front of the Home Hotel, East Third Street, between midnight and 12:30 a. m. today. Werts lives at the hotel. He reports that he forgot to lock the car's transmission last night, and that the thieves evidently had no trouble in starting its motor.

The car, which was distinctly new in appearance, bore Ohio license plate numbered 309-980.

Descriptions of the car have been broadcast to all neighboring communities, and it is believed that it will be recovered within 24 hours. The theft was the first of that variety reported to local police here this week.

Last week an Oldsmobile coach, 1928 model, was stolen from Miss Emma Sparks, Darke County's Home Demonstration Agent. It has not been recovered. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 30 Apr 1968, Tue ·Page 9

• • Barr Company History, A Story Of Growth; A Long Way From Ice Cream Sold Outdoors**

The history of the Barr Company has been one of improvement and expansion since it began operations in Greenville in the 1920s.

During the roaring 20s, the location that now houses the Von Bebber's Jewelry Store was the Bart Company's spot. Then, the Trick Brothers' 5 and 10 was there, the Barr afro. is presently.

After the Trick Brothers, it was the McIllelans's god 10. Then the Bart Co moved in where it was stayed to date.

While both sellers and Barrs were giving each other stiff competition, Barrs would sell ice cream out on the sidewalk and would keep its doors open on Saturdays until 10:30 p.m.

In 1934 Barr's then took over McIllelans. The size of the store at that time was 3,420 square feet.

In 1958 Barr's added a room to the rear of the store which increased the size of the store by another 760 square feet. The area is used as a lamp and electrical department.

The year 1963 brought a great deal of innovation and addition in the store's appearance and size. A new lower-level sales floor was added. The latest styles in counters and fixtures also became a part of the new look in department stores at Barrs.

Again in 1964 Barrs expanded. The Value Dress Store directly north of the Barr Co. was added on. The room was 20x110 feet, making an additional 2,200 square footage available for Barrs modern displays for products.

The whole room is used today for ladies' apparel and ready-to-wear. Other remodeling was done in 1964. A new front was put on modernizing the store even more.

The total square footage of the Barr Company's store has increased from 3,420 when It started at its present location to 8,605.

In 1967, a warehouse was built in Celina for the Barr Company. The general office is now also measures 80x170 feet and was built to handle the company's expanding of other stores. It will assist them in receiving freight much faster.

Besides Greenville and Celina the store has retail outlets in [omited] and Monticello, Ind. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 28 Sep 1954, Tue ·Page 1

• • FRED BARR, CO-OWNER OF STORE CHAIN, DIES**

Fred H. Barr, 75, who with a brother, William, operated a chain of variety stores for a number of years in Greenville, Kenton, and Celina, died yesterday at his home at 666 North Main Street in Celina.

Mr. Barr, a native of Ft. Wayne, Ind., had spent most of his life in Celina, where he was a member of St. Paul's Methodist church.

His wife, Mary, died in 1950. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Helen Neer, of Urbana; three grandchildren, and his brother, William, of Bluffton, Ind.

Funeral services will be held at two p.m. tomorrow at the Vales Funeral Home in Celina, with Dr. Don Mueller officiating. Burial will be in North Grove cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home.

The Barr Company store on South Broadway here will be closed all day Wednesday.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 31 Dec 1991, Tue ·Page 6

Dec. 9 - Barr Store Closing: Carl Horn, manager of Barr Store, said the downtown business would be going out of business after being in the downtown area for over 50 years. The store employs 11 people.

Photo Caption: End of an Era The Barr Store announced it will close its doors soon, ending an era that spanned 50 years in Greenville. The vacancy left by the store when it does close will not only leave empty store space but also one more attraction for bringing people downtown. (Advocate file photo)

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 9 Dec 1991, Tue ·Page 6

• • Barr Store to close doors downtown**

By BILL BOOKER and RIC KLEIN

A long-time South Broadway retail business has announced it will close its doors after decades of existence in Greenville. Carl Horn, manager of the Barr Store, told the Daily Advocate he received word of the termination of business from the parent company, W.R. Thomas of Warsaw, Ind. The parent company would not say when the business would close.

"It's due to the general business conditions," Horn said, alluding to the chief reason for the closure. The structure is owned by the adjoining Second National Bank and has been used by Barr's since March, 1987. The store had been located in the next block south for many years, then moved to its present location nearly five years ago when the G.C. Murphy store moved to the city's north end.

"It's sad this had to happen," Horn continued. "It really makes me think... I've been in the dime store business for 42 years myself, since I was a junior in high school." He said he had no immediate plans.

The store employs 10 people in addition to Horn, each of whom will be at least temporarily out of work. "It's really a shame; they've been an important part of Greenville and the county for that matter," added Jim Holzapfel, Executive Secretary of the Darke County Chamber of Commerce.

Ironically, Horn's announcement came within days of the hiring of an economic development director and president of the County Improvement Corporation.

On Friday, Mary Stammen, president of Second National Bank, said, "We were very disappointed. The Barr Store was an excellent addition to the downtown area. They have been an excellent tenant, and we will do our best to come up with another business to occupy the store," she added.

Stammen said the bank will begin the process over the next few weeks in the search for possible tenants.

Employees at the store expressed shock at the news of the closing, looking now towards their own futures and employment. Five-year employee Jeanne Higgins said, "It's sad and upsetting that the store won't be here anymore. It's going to be bad for the downtown situation," she said. Co-worker Jean Fourman, who has also worked the last five years at the store, simply said, "It's just sad." ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 16 Dec 1991, Tue ·Page 6

• • Search is underway to replace Barr Store**
• By LINDA MOODY*
• Life Styles Editor*

"We're very disappointed to lose them in downtown Greenville," said Marvin Stammen, president and chief executive officer of Second National Bank. "I know they were a real asset to downtown. In addition, they're a good tenant for us."

Stammen said Barr's Variety Store is a well-run organization, noting that the bank had purchased G.C. Murphy's and used a third of that facility to build its new loan center.

"They are good to deal with," he added. "We are going to begin the process of finding a good replacement for them immediately."

According to Stammen, several people have expressed an interest in the building to Barr's Store manager Carl Horn.

"We'd like to see a similar type of store, a variety store," said Stammen. "We would like to see a business that would tend to draw the people to downtown Greenville to benefit all of the merchants."

Stammen said the bank plans to talk to Darke County's new economic development director, Jerry Long.

"And, we will talk to some people ourselves and certainly the retail association of downtown Greenville," Stammen said. "As always, we want it to be someone who fits into downtown Greenville and complements the whole downtown sector."

Dean Bankson, owner of Wieland Jewelers, said he hates to see the Barr Store close.

"Anytime a business closes, we probably lose a little bit of traffic," said Bankson. "We really need more retail. We don't need offices or a youth center."

He went on, "I don't think it's doomsday or anything. We should focus on the buildings that are full and not the ones that are closing."

John Snell, owner of Minuteman Press, said he doesn't think the closing of Barr's Store in February will affect his business.

"I hate to see the store close," he said. "We need something like that downtown. It would be nice if something similar could go in there. For the sake of the downtown, something like that is a good type of business to keep people downtown."

"Barr's draws a lot of people downtown every day," said Donna King, manager of Olde Tyme Antiques. "It will cut down on traffic, but I hope they get something in every similar. There is a need for that in Greenville.

King said she hopes people still come downtown to shop.

"The only thing I hate to see is any store close up, especially in times like these," said Richard Kiser, manager of Van Bebber Jewelers. "I would like to see another retail business go in there."

Kiser said he feels the city administration and Chamber of Commerce should start showing more concern about Broadway.

Linda Wampler, owner of Merle Norman's, agrees with other business owners on South Broadway. She hates to see the Barr's store go out of business.

"It is a much-needed store in the downtown. It carried a little bit of everything for everyone," she said. "We have no (major) restaurant or hardware store downtown."

She said she hopes it will not affect her business and doesn't think it will because of Merle Norman's being more of a specialty store.

"It's bound to have some effect," Wampler said. "I want to know what the elderly are going to do to get out to the shopping centers."

Judy Hayes, manager of the Readmore bookstore, said she doesn't believe the store's closing will affect her business.

"We're the only bookstore in town; we're like a public utility," she said. "I'd like to see another retail store come in... anything that will bring a lot of people downtown. We need a variety store."

"I'm sorry to see they are closing," said P.J. Copp, manager of Michael's Cards, one of the few people willing to comment and work at the north end of town. "I'll miss their chocolate-covered peanuts terribly."

Copp said she doesn't know what should go in there to replace the Barr's Store.

Will its closing affect Michael's Cards? "It is rough on all of us when anybody closes," said Copp. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 17 Dec 1960, Sat ·Page 1

Many Visit Barr Co. Store Friday Night

A shopping open house was held by the Barr Company 5c to $1 Store last Friday evening, Dec. 9, a popular event attended by over 300 persons. All the Barr stores, two in Indiana and three in Ohio, simultaneously observed the Family Night event.

The many patrons browsed around the store for purchases from 7 to 10 o'clock in the evening and were served coffee and doughnuts during the open house. Patrons were given a 10 percent discount on purchases.

Miss Helen Sink is manager of the local store.

The Barr Store was formerly the W. H. Spencer 5c to $1 store, 105 South Main street. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 15 Mar 1961, Wed ·Page 1

• • Newly-Remodeled Store in City To Stage "Grand Opening" This Weekend**

THE BARR_CO. 5c TO $1.00 STORE, located at 105 South Main street in Monticello, will stage a grand opening Friday and Saturday, March 17-18, after completely remodeling its variety store here. This is the former W. H. Spencer 5c to $1.00 store which was purchased by the Barr Company in February of 1960 from Clarence Spencer of Frankfort.

Completely new shelving (see above picture) has been installed, and six gondola-type counters form the center display with four wide aisles for easy access to the merchandise. Many new lines of merchandise have also been added to the inventory with complete selections in 15 different departments. The walls have been painted mint green and yellow, and above the display racks are pink, turquoise, and yellow clouds, formed of pegboard, which display the many different lines of merchandise.

Of special interest will be the picture department with frames and pictures displayed on a 10-foot-wide pegboard, covered completely to the ceiling of the store. Also new is a complete line of children's and women's wear; blouses, skirts, shorts, slacks, and pedal-pushers, and other sports apparel, which are beautifully displayed on the handsome new racks and shelving. Many other departments offer varied selections in housewares, needlework, hosiery, cosmetics, candy, and infants' wear.

Another new feature of the store will be two check-out counters near the entrance of the store, with clerks to help you with your selections.

A new electric sign, pointing the way to "Toyland" in the basement, has been installed, and a large sign has also been added to the store front.

The toy department was opened November 25, 1960, by the new owners after a complete remodeling and decorating job. Remodeling of the main floor was started in February of this year, culminating in the "Grand Opening" this weekend.

The Barr Company store here is one of five such stores owned by a closed corporation consisting of Mrs. Will Barr of Bluffton and Mrs. Helen Neer of Urbana, Ohio, widow and daughter of the founder of the company. Miss Helen Sink is the manager of the Monticello store for the Barr Co. She also served as store manager for W. H. Spencer for over 16 years.

There will be a drawing every hour on the hour for some lucky customer during the two-day grand opening this weekend. Store hours for this Friday and Saturday are from 9 a.m to 9 p.m, both days.

(Kiser Photo - Daily Herald-Journal Engraving)

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 24 Mar 1961, Fri ·Page 1

• • Over 3,000 People Shop Barr's 5cent to $1 Store Last Weekend**

MONTICELLO MAYOR CARL SEIDHOLZ (third from left) cuts the ribbon signaling the reopening of the Barr Co., 5c to $1 store at 105 South Main Street here last Friday morning to celebrate the store's two-day grand reopening.

That's Mrs. Mamie Barr, of Bluffton, one of the owners of the family-owned corporation that owns and operates five such variety stores, holding the ribbon for Hizzoner. Behind Mrs. Barr is Robert Booher, assistant general manager of the Barr Company. Mr. Booher lives in Celina, Ohio, where the firm operates its major store. Other Barr stores are in Greenville and Kenton, Ohio, and Frankfort, Ind.

Mr. Booher and local store manager Miss Helen Sink were both extremely pleased with last weekend's tremendous crowd for their grand reopening. Both estimated the two-day crowd at "well over 3,000 people," despite the bad weather Saturday.

Also shown above are several 'early-bird customers who were on hand for the grand reopening.

The Barr Company purchased the store in Monticello from Clarence Spencer in February of 1960. The store was formerly known as the "W.H. Spencer 5c to $1 store." Extensive remodeling was completed before last weekend's grand reopening celebration.

Miss Helen Sink, who was store manager for Mr. Spencer for over 16 years, is continuing in the same capacity for the Barr Company.

Many new departments have been added by the Barr Company, including a large "Toyland" in the basement of the store.

(Kiser Photo - Daily Herald Journal Engraving) ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 23 Nov 1960, Wed ·Page 9

• • Opening Barr & Company Store's Toyland in Basement Friday through Saturday**

TOYLAND OPENS FRIDAY - SATURDAY Shown above is one view of the new toy department which is opening this Friday and Saturday in the basement of the Barr Company Store, formerly W.H. Spencer Store, 105 South Main Street in Monticello. The basement has been remodeled and freshly painted in a cheerful yellow on the north wall. The east and south walls are colorful peg-board in aqua and pink. In the center of the room are three walk-around counters loaded with toys costing from 10c to $10.98. The room is brightly lighted with new fluorescent fixtures.

The room is brightly lighted with new fluorescent fixtures. The Barr Company purchased the store from Mr. Clarence Spencer of Frankfort in February of 1960 and now has a total of five modern variety stores. Each store has been completely remodeled with the exception of the Monticello store. Plans are underway and being carried out for the modernization of the local establishment, and according to Mr. Robert Booher, supervisor of all the Barr stores, the remodeling will be completed here in February. The store will be open during the remodeling period, and they expect many suggestions from the customers, some of which are sure to be used.

There are eight regular employees at the Monticello store, which is managed by Miss Helen Sink. Several additional clerks will be employed for the busy Christmas season.

The Barr Company is a closed corporation owned by Mrs. Will Barr of Bluffton and Mrs. Helen Neer, of Urbana, Ohio, widow and daughter of the founders of the Barr Company. There are now five stores in the chain, including the former W. H. Spencer stores in Monticello and Frankfort. Each store includes a separate toy department.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal Wed, Sep 25, 1957 ·Page 1

W. H. Spencer 5c to $1.00 Store Is Celebrating 50th Birthday; Has Been In Monticello Since 1929

The W. H. Spencer 5c to $1.00 Store in Frankfort was opened by the late W. H. Spencer on Sat- urday, September 21, 1907, the first five and ten cent store in that city. The little store of 1907 was far different from the well- lighted and modern Spencer stores in Frankfort and Monti- cello today. The Monticello store was purchased in January, 1929, and has been remodeled and mod- ernized during the past 28 years to keep pace with the parent store in Frankfort. The present owner, Clarence D. Spencer, son of the late W. H. Spencer, has seen the changes in the five and ten cent business over the fifty year period-from the days when "they were con- sidered cheap stores and were not patronized by the "carriage trade" up to the present time when the business is not only accepted by all classes of trade, but is one of the giants in the retail distribu- tion of merchandise." He has been associated with the store since June, 1914. Mr. Spencer recalled that back in 1907 the store sold corset steels for which there is no demand to- day. Gas mantles were a big item then, as well as all-over embroid- ery for petticoats. Oil lamps were big sellers too. The Spencer stores still stock them and sell about a dozen a year. "We did not stock any rouge or lipstick," Mr. Spencer says, "as only the lowest-down street wo- man wore any make-up." "We did sell a lot of talcum powder and had boxes of face powder that was slightly tinted. (Continued on page 3) Of course, rayon underwear was unknown and few women wore silk underwear, an item too high for our 10 cent limit, even if there had been a demand for it." "Customer demand, not prices," says Mr. Spencer, "is responsible for the change in merchandise we handle." One of the big items in the five and ten cent business was, and still is, candy. Mr. Spencer has this to say to the people of Monticello and the trading area in his store page ad- vertisement on page five in this issue: "Thanks to you, the people of Monticello, White County, and the entire trading area, for the fine patronage you have given us the past 28 years. In appreciation we have bought many items for our Golden Anniversary Sale which starts Thursday morning at the Monticello Store to offer you at real bargain prices. "'It Pays To Trade At Spen- cer's' has been our slogan for years. Attend this sale, get your share of the big values."-C. D. Spencer. The Monticello store is under the management of Miss Helen Sink and the large storeroom is completely stocked with mer- chandise in addition to a large basement stock room. Miss Sink is ably assisted by seven store employees.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Herald-Journal Tue, Jun 15, 1943 ·Page 1

W. H. SPENCER PASSES AWAY Owner of Local Store Succumbs, Funeral Thursday W. H. Spencer, of Frankfort, own- er of the local W. H. Spencer 5c to $1 Store, died this morning at 2:30 o'clock at the Clinton county hos- pital at Frankfort where he had been taken last Saturday. He had been in failing health for the past month. Mr. Spencer, for many years a prominent and active business man of Frankfort, had operated the Spencer store in that city for about 35 years, having opened the store there. He started the Monticello store in 1929, which he still operat- ed.

The Survivors

Surviving are the widow and two sons, Clarence and Walter. Mr. Spencer was an active member of the Masonic lodge and the Frank- fort Kiwanis Club. The funeral services will be held at the Frankfort Methodist church Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, with burial in the Bunnell cemetery at Frankfort. Friends may call at the Goodwin Funeral Home at Frank- fort after 4 o'clock Wednesday at- ternoon. Kenneth Stater, manager of the local Spencer store, states that the Monticello store will be closed all day Thursday owing to the death of the owner.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 01 Feb 1960, Mon ·Page 3

• • W.H. Spencer Store Sold Here**
  • Helen Sink To Remain As Manager**

The W.H. Spencer 5c to $1 store at 105 South Main in Monticello, opened here in 1929 by W.H. Spencer of Frankfort, was sold Saturday to the Barr Company, operators of variety stores in Ohio since 1914. The Spencer store in Frankfort, founded in 1907, was also included in the business transaction, according to owner Clarence Spencer, who resides in Frankfort.

The Barr Company was established in Celina, Ohio, in 1914 and now operates stores in Celina, Kenton, and Greenville.

The sale is effective immediately, and the new owners will take over management of the store here and in Frankfort today.

Clarence Spencer has been affiliated with both of the W.H. Spencer stores since 1914. When his father, W.H., passed away in 1943, he assumed management of both the Monticello and Frankfort stores for the estate, and in 1944, he purchased the two stores from the estate and has operated them personally since that time. Both stores will continue to operate under the familiar Spencer name for the time being.

Miss Helen Sink, manager of the Spencer store in Monticello for the past 15 years, will continue in that capacity. Also, the majority of the employees now working in both stores will be "kept on" by the new owners.

Negotiations for the sale to The Barr Co. have been underway for the past 30 days, and the final papers were signed in the Spencer store at Frankfort Saturday, with Robert Seiny, treasurer and general manager of the Barr interests, representing the new owners.

The retiring merchant said Saturday night that he had no immediate plans to announce at this time.

Mr. Spencer said that The Barr Co. was founded by Fred and Will Barr, and the brothers were born and raised in Bluffton. Will Barr operated a dry goods store in Bluffton prior to opening the variety store in Celina, and even after opening the Ohio venture, continued the store in Bluffton for several years.

Both brothers died in 1954, Will at the age of 80 and Fred at the age of 75.

The company operates as a corporation with Mrs. Will Barr of Bluffton as vice-president and Mrs. Helen Neer of Urbana, Ohio, as secretary. Mrs. Neer is the daughter of the late Fred Barr.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 13 Sep 1962, Thu ·Page 1

• • The Barr Company Is Observing Its 48th Birthday With A Sale**

The Barr Company, 103-105 South Main Street, Monticello, announces its 48th Anniversary Sale starting Friday, September 14th, and ending Saturday, September 22nd.

Just 48 years ago, the doors opened for the original business in Celina, Ohio, and the business today includes five stores in Indiana and Ohio.

Turn to page 3 in this issue for the anniversary sale advertising. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 17 Dec 1960, Sat ·Page 1

• • Many Visit Barr Co. Store Friday Night**

A shopping open house was held by the Barr Company 5c to $1 Store last Friday evening, Dec. 9, a popular event attended by over 300 persons. All the Barr stores, two in Indiana and three in Ohio, simultaneously observed the Family Night event.

The many patrons browsed around the store for purchases from 7 to 10 o'clock in the evening and were served coffee and doughnuts during the open house. Patrons were given a 10 percent discount on purchases.

Miss Helen Sink is the manager of the local store.

The Barr Store was formerly the W.H. Spencer 5c to $1 store, 105 South Main Street. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 22 Aug 1962, Wed ·Page 1

• • Grand Opening Barr's Enlarged-Modernized Store Friday-Saturday**

You're all invited to attend the grand opening of The Barr Company's newly enlarged and modernized variety store, 105 South Main Street, Monticello, this Friday and Saturday. The room to the north, formerly occupied by Ralph Bumpas, Jeweler, has been added, giving the store a combined frontage of more than 60 feet on Main Street.

Ladies', girls', & infants' ready-to-wear are featured in the new room along with lamps, etc. The basement will be used for toys, etc., as in the past.

The free gift to the ladies for the grand opening will be an attractive, colorful plastic household apron.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 12 Dec 1962, Wed ·Page 3

• • Barr Store Employees Enjoy Christmas Party**

The employees of the Barr's Store had their Christmas party on Monday evening, December 10, at the Monticello Youth Center, with a delicious carry-in dinner served at tables gaily decorated for the Christmas season.

The game of 'Christmas" was played, and Janet Straesser won the prize, and the door prize was won by Mrs. Geraldine Brackman.

Entertainment was furnished by Jim Lawlis with some of his dancing selections. A gift exchange ended the wonderful evening.

Those present for the gala occasion were Miss Helen Sink, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Straesser and daughter, Janet, Zola Hefner, G. Kuchera, E. Downey, G.I. Brackman, Beryla Camp, Ruthl Crawn, Helen Lawlis, Amelia Hunt, Dana Mohler, Judy Dilling, Ruth Clerget, and Shirley Crawn.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Garrett Clipper Garrett, Indiana • Thu, Nov 14, 1929 Page 4

• • ALLEGED PLOT TO BEAT CREDITORS OF F. D. BELL CO.**

Bluffton, Ind., Nov. 13 - William R. Barr, Fred D. Bell, and George R. Louden, officers and directors of the Fred D. Bell Company, which formerly operated a chain of five-and-ten-cent stores in Northern Indiana, are charged with conspiracy to defraud the company's creditors and stockholders, in an action for $50,000 damages filed against them in the Wells Circuit Court today.

The suit was filed by Stanley E. Brink and John H. Edris, who several months ago were named receivers for the firm in the Allen Superior Court No. 2.

It is charged that the three defendants formed the alleged conspiracy on March 22, 1926, and the plaintiffs cite a number of transactions which it is charged were made by the company's officers without the proper authorization of the stockholders.

The receivers aver that from the date of the formation of the alleged conspiracy to December 31, 1926, Barr took for his own personal use assets of the company valued at $2,851.53. On January 8, 1927, it is claimed, he obtained a loan from the company of $1,500, and between January 1, 1927, and October 10, 1927, took merchandise valued at a total of $1,769.31. He was also advanced a loan of $5,000 on November 4, 1927, the complaint alleges.

None of these transactions were made with the approval of the stockholders, the complaint sets forth.

The plaintiffs further allege that Barr was given another loan of $13,469.16, and that this was paid by his turning over to the company stock in the firm having a par value of $25,000.

Cancellation of a note for $3,750 held by Bell, and another for $3,000 held by Barr, on September 19, 1927, also is cited as a part of the conspiracy.

The company at the present time has $18,500 outstanding in preferred stock, and the sum of $40,000 is due the firm's creditors, the receivers state.

Judgment for $50,000 is asked to retire the preferred stock and to apply to the payment of the creditors. The stocks and fixtures of the stores have been sold by the receiver, and the proceeds from this sale would also be used to satisfy the creditors' claims.

Barr, Bell, and Louden all resided in Bluffton on the dates given in the complaint. Bell is now in Seattle, Wash., where he is the manager of a chain of five-and-ten-cent stores. Barr is the manager of the Barr Department store here and is a past governor-general of Indiana Rotary clubs. Louden was formerly prosecutor of Wells County and has been serving as one of the managers of the Bell company. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate Greenville, Ohio • Fri, Nov 30, 1990 Page 1

• • CARL HORN dishes up some candy at the Barr's Variety Store on Broadway. (Advocate photo by Steve Sandlin)**

Greenville a good area for Horn's Cornerstone

By STEVE SANDLIN, Staff Writer

Carl Horn has been described by some as the candy man of Darke County. Horn has served as the manager of the Barr's Variety Store from 1958 to 1968 and from 1987 to the present. Barr's Variety Store on Broadway is well-known as a place where shoppers can find a variety of candy.

Horn began his service in Greenville at Barr's just as he got out of the service in 1958. He worked at the Greenville store until 1968 then moved on to other Barr's stores in Frankfort, Ind., Celina, Coldwater, Mich., and Covington, among others.

"We were very happy when we learned that we would be returning to Greenville," said Horn. "We had lived in the area again since 1980 while I worked at the Covington store, and we were looking forward to coming back to work too.

"We opened up the present Barr's store in 1987," he said. "It was a great thrill to come back," he said. "The people here, I've found, are very friendly, outgoing people."

However, the face of downtown Greenville has changed a considerable amount during the years that Horn has been a businessman here.

He said that business seems to have "migrated" somewhat to shopping centers from downtown and "consolidated" from a lot of specialty shops to larger stores.

"It has changed tremendously in the years I've been around," said Horn. "When I first came here, there were over 40 different places where you could buy shoes of one kind or another. Today, there are probably only about four or five places in the downtown area that sell shoes," he said. "In fact, the dime store that I worked in down the block when I first started was one of three dime stores that sold shoes.

"There is just not the selection of merchandise available that there once was," he said.

But Greenville's downtown isn't doing too badly, according to Horn, especially considering that many downtown areas of many cities are failing miserably.

"Greenville's downtown is doing much better than most towns this size," he said. "Greenville's downtown always seems to do pretty well."

Horn was born in DeGraff, Ohio, in Logan County. He is married to a girl he met while in the Army in Korea.

"She is special, she speaks three different languages and she works in the office at Cadillac Gage," said Horn.

The Horns have a daughter, Joyce, who is a physician in Cincinnati, and a son, Jim, who is a sophomore at Greenville High School.

Horn said he is quite happy to be selling his candy and other sundries at Barr's in Greenville.

"We sell many tons of candy," he said. "When we have our annual sale in October, we sell seven to eight tons then alone, in just this one store.

Greenville has been good to the Horn family, he said.

"We have been very happy here," said Horn.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 19 Nov 1986, Wed ·Page 9

• • Barr's Plans Return to Downtown**

It has been jointly announced by Philip Spear, president of W.R. Thomas Co., and Marvin Stammen, president of Second National Bank, that Barr's will be returning to downtown Greenville after little more than a nine-year absence.

Barr's will occupy the former Murphy building at 423 S. Broadway. An early spring 1987 opening is planned.

Barr's was a part of Greenville's retail community for more than 60 years and was located where the law offices of Spidel, Staley, Hole, and Hanes are now located. The Barr Stores became a division of W.R. Thomas Co. in August 1978. The Thomas Co. has headquarters in Warsaw, Ind., and currently operates stores in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan.

Store manager will be Greenville resident Carl Horn. He presently manages the Barr Store in Covington. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Defiance Crescent News Newspaper Archives July 28, 1984 Page 1

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• • BIG JOB IN SHORT TIME - Although Hicksville Village Administrator Robert (Bob) Jordan has only been working in his position for little more than eight weeks, he has already discovered it is a big but satisfying job. Even when he found himself jobless as the result of a company layoff several years ago, Jordan and his family chose to stay in Hicksville because living here is like coming home," he says.**

• Jordan: Village job big, but satisfying*
• By HARRIET BICE, Correspondent*

HICKSVILLE - Dealing with people and problems of the community make the position of Hicksville village administrator both challenging and satisfying for Robert (Bob) Jordan.

Appointed to the office just eight weeks ago, Jordan has found that "It's a big job!"

Having always had an interest in village government, Jordan found that it could be pleasurable as he worked with former administrator John Allen from June 1983 to February 1984 in the position of supervisor of general relief workers. When Allen announced his decision to resign, Jordan decided it was time to give the job a try and submitted his application.

"Everyone should pick the right job," he comments, "and I feel that I have come into it."

• Jordan's job big, satisfying (Continued from Page One)*

Jordan brings to the office 20 years of experience in management with the Barr Company, a chain of variety stores. Born and raised a farm boy in the Kenton-Bell Center area, he began with the Kenton Barr Store in March of 1958. His training was interrupted in December 1961 when he began a two-year stint with the U.S. Army.

Upon his return to civilian life, Jordan moved to Celina and the general offices of the Barr Store. There he not only continued his training but also served as assistant manager of the Celina store and was relief manager of a number of other stores.

In March of 1968, the Jordan family moved to Hicksville. Jordan was manager of the local Barr Store for the next nine and one-half years until the chain was sold to W.R. Thomas stores.

The family remained in Hicksville, though, and Jordan went to work as a machine operator at Commercial Shearing. Four years later, he became one of the many victims of a company layoff. In June of 1983, he began as supervisor of general relief workers in the village, and in September 1983, he was employed with Dietrich Industries.

What made the Jordans decide to stay in Hicksville? Jordan explains, "First of all, I grew up in the community of Bell Center, which is just about the size of Hicksville. Living here is like coming home."

He continues, "We have had occasion to leave, but we have just never been able to do it. This is a nice community to bring up children. We own our home, and we have a lot of friends here."

Jordan and his wife, Sherry, are the parents of three children - a son, 15; Angela, 13; and Chad, 8.

Appreciating what Hicksville has to offer, the family has become involved in community activities. As a family, they attend Trinity United Methodist Church. During his tenure as a manager of the Barr Store, Jordan was active in the Chamber of Commerce, serving as its president in 1970-71. He has been a member of the Hicksville Kiwanis Club since its formation, presently serving as its vice president. In 1984-85, he will advance to president of the group.

So how does 20 years of experience in retail management fit into the administration of a village of just under 4,000 people?

"It has been an asset," Jordan says. "I'm grateful to the Barr Store for the training it provided. It has been well worth its while."

Village management includes a myriad of responsibilities, with perhaps the most obvious being the overseeing of village employees. They include a total of seven full-time employees in the street, water, and sewer departments, and an average of 40 general relief workers and their supervisor.

Within those departments, it is Jordan's responsibility to keep the village running smoothly. Is the water supply safe and plentiful? Are streets in good repair? Is the sewer system working properly?

"I'm the major troubleshooter for the village," he notes with obvious pleasure in his voice.

In addition to those duties, he must also complete applications for grants, office duties, responsible for all village purchase orders, and a variety of other responsibilities.

Water quality is probably the major concern of the administrator. Crews are flushing hydrants weekly throughout the summer in an attempt to clean the system. Among Jordan's goals is the installation of new wells.

Other projects he hopes to complete in the near future are improvements to the sewage plant, downtown parking facilities, village streets, and development of a grass waterway north of the village to improve stormwater drainage.

Projects currently underway are the resurfacing of major streets and widening curbs and the trimming of trees and limbs on an emergency basis.

One might wonder how Jordan has been able to accomplish so much in such a short period of time. Cooperation is the key, the administrator says. He gives high praise to council, village clerks, the Chamber of Commerce, village employees, and the many residents who have shown their support.

An interest in the village, a desire to see improvements, and a willingness to cooperate seem to be the winning elements of Jordan's administration. Despite the midnight calls for water or sewer emergencies, the unexpected breakdown of equipment, and the occasional irate resident, it is not hard to imagine the administrator having the same cheerful enthusiasm, whether it be eight weeks, eight months, or eight years on the job. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Defiance Crescent News Newspaper Archives June 14, 1976 Page 16

• • HICKSVILLE, OHIO**
  • PARTICIPATING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STORES ARE NOW OPEN MONDAY EVENINGS**
• On A Trial Basis This Summer*

Stop In Hicksville and Sign Up For **CEDAR POINT DRAWING**. Tickets Are Drawn Every Monday At **8:00 P.M.** During The Month Of June.

Participating Stores: - **BARR COMPANY** - **GAMBLES** - **CASUAL SHOPPE** - **FESSEL JEWELRY** - **HICKSVILLE PHARMACY** - **METZ's MEN'S WEAR** - **FAMILY SHOPPE** - **THRIFTWAY**

• • ALSO OPEN FRIDAY EVENINGS**

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sherwood Chronicle Newspaper Archives September 29, 1966 Page 5

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• • Walter V. Mentzer**

Mr. Walter V. Mentzer, age 64, former owner and operator of the Mentzer Five and Ten Cent Store in Hicksville and former mayor of the city from 1948 to 1950, died at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, at the Bluffton Clinic where he suffered a heart attack following surgery.

Mr. Mentzer was born June 14, 1902, in Decatur, Indiana, the son of Erman and Eva Peters Mentzer. In his early life, he moved with his parents to Bluffton, Indiana, and later to Payne, Ohio, where he graduated with the Class of 1920. He then attended Ohio State University before being employed at the Journal-Gazette in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

In 1924, he was united in marriage with Alma White. They started housekeeping in Fort Wayne, where he was appointed to the Indiana State Patrol, serving with them for eighteen years. The last ten years, he was a lieutenant with the force, both in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. In 1945, they moved to Hicksville, where Mr. Mentzer and his father owned and operated the dime store until a year ago when it was sold to the Barr Company. This past year, Mr. and Mrs. Mentzer owned and operated The Gift Shop in Hicksville.

Mr. Mentzer was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police in Fort Wayne, the St. John Lutheran Church of Hicksville, and the Hicksville Masonic Lodge.

Surviving him are his wife, Alma; three daughters, Mrs. Thais Vandenberg of Berea, Ohio, Mrs. Jacqueline Lee of Indianapolis, Ind., and Mrs. Maribeth Slonaker of Grand Blanc, Mich.; his mother, Mrs. Eva Mentzer of Hicksville; a sister, Mrs. Frances Armstrong of Bourbon, Ind.; and eleven grandchildren.

Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday in St. John Lutheran Church. The Reverend E. Maynard Powell, Pastor of the Church, officiated. Burial was in the Lehman Cemetery at Payne, Ohio. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Defiance Crescent News Newspaper Archives January 12, 1948 Page 4

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• • THREE SAFES CRACKED**

Kenton, Jan. 12 - Safe crackers stole an estimated $1,500 in cash from safes in three Kenton business places over the weekend. Police reported today that the burglaries were at the: Nourse Department Store, Barr Company Novelty Store, and a branch office of the Lima Loan Company.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamilton Daily News Journal Newspaper Archives May 10, 1950 Page 23

• • MAKE WAY FOR NEW BUILDING AT CELINA**
• Special To Journal-News*

Celina, May 10 - Workmen are razing the building of Barr Company, incorporated, on South Main street, formerly occupied by Paysen Electric Service, to make room for a new addition.

Secretary Fred Barr said the new building would be constructed of stone and brick in keeping with the present building and will be two stories in height. The addition will give the company a store 55 by 165 feet.

The new structure will be built by Howard Leffler, Celina contractor. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives May 7, 1950 Page 22

• • Workmen Raze Celina Building**

• (Special to The Lima News)*

• • CELINA, May 6** - Workmen this week began razing the Barr Company, Inc., building on South Main Street, formerly occupied by Paysen Electric Service, to make room for a new addition to the Barr firm.

Secretary Fred Barr stated that the new building will be constructed of stone and brick matching the present Barr building and will be two stories in height. The addition will give the company a 55 by 165-foot store room.

The new structure will be built by Howard Leffler, Celina contractor.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 04 Mar 1940, Mon ·Page 1

BARR COMPANY STORE HAS NEW MANAGER

Vern Ramsey, formerly of Celina, has arrived in Greenville to begin his duties as manager of the Barr Company store on South Broadway. He succeeds Kenneth Wertz, who, in turn, will take Ramsey's place as manager of the firm's store at Celina. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 19 Sep 1964, Sat ·Page 10

• • The Barr Company, which has a store in Greenville, is now celebrating its 50th anniversary.**

The company was started by Fred and Will Barr in a 20 by 60-foot store on Main Street in Celina in 1914. Gray enamelware, priced at 10 cents, was the feature item on opening day.

Today, the firm has five branches, including the local store at 507-509 Broadway, which was started here in 1933. Other branches are located in Kenton and Celina, Ohio, and Monticello and Frankfort, Indiana. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- White County Times 16 Mar 1961, Thu ·Page 1

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• • Grand Opening of The Barr Co.**
  • Friday & Saturday**

• City Atmosphere Prevalent In Former Spencer Store*

Since the Barr Company of Celina, Ohio, purchased the Spencer Variety Store of Monticello on February 1, 1960, they have had dreams of converting the store into a modern and up-to-date business. For the last few months, they have been busy making their dreams come true, and now they present their Grand Opening on Friday and Saturday, March 17 and 18, with a beautiful store completely stocked with quality merchandise at attractive prices.

The store has been completely renovated with new fixtures, new counters, and new shelves throughout. Everything is freshly painted, and many new lines of merchandise have been added. A new department, "Toyland," is now being operated in the spacious basement of the store.

• • Free Gifts**

Plans for the two big opening days include special prices on fine, first-quality merchandise. Guests at the store will have the chance to win free gifts, with names drawn every hour on the hour. There will be souvenirs for all who attend this big event.

The store will be open until 9 o'clock on both Friday and Saturday nights to accommodate customers who are employed during the day.

The Barr Company is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Neer of Urbana, Ohio, and Mrs. Mamie Barr of Bluffton. They have a chain of five stores located in Celina, Ohio; Kenton, Ohio; Greenville, Ohio; Frankfort, and Monticello. The general manager is Robert Siney, and the assistant manager is Robert Booher.

• • Miss Helen Sink, Manager**

The manager of the local store, Miss Helen Sink, is well known to White county customers, as she has been the manager of the W. H. Spencer store in Monticello since 1944.

The new store has two checkout desks, and while customers may make their own selection of merchandise, there will be salesladies throughout the store to answer questions.

The public is invited to be guests of the Barr Company, one of the fine institutions of the city that believes in the future of Monticello. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 12 Jan 1963, Sat ·Page 1

President Of Barr Company Is Dead

URBANA - Robert M. Neer, president of the Barr company, which operates a variety store in Greenville, died at 4 a.m. today of a heart attack while on a business trip to the company's home office in Celina.

A native of Urbana, he was the husband of Helen Barr Neer and also headed an insurance firm here.

Funeral services are pending at the Humphreys funeral home in Urbana. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- White County Times Monticello, Indiana • Thu, Feb 4, 1960 Page 1

Barr Company Buys Local Store - W. H. Spencer Co.

Here Since 1929

One of Monticello's well-known business firms changed management Saturday when the W. H. Spencer Co. was sold to the Barr Company, operators of variety stores in Ohio since 1914.

The W. H. Spencer Co., located at 105 S. Main St., Monticello, was opened here in 1929. Its owner, Clarence Spencer of Frankfort, has been affiliated with both of the W. H. Spencer stores since 1914. When his father (W. H.) passed away in 1943, he assumed management of both the Monticello and Frankfort stores for the estate. In 1944, he purchased the two stores from the estate and has operated them personally since that time.

Both stores will continue to operate under the familiar Spencer name for the time being. Miss Helen Sink, manager of the Spencer store in Monticello for the past 15 years, will continue in that capacity. Also, the majority of the employees will be retained by the new owners.

Negotiations for the sale to the Barr Co. have been underway for the past 30 days, and the final papers were signed in the Spencer store at Frankfort on Saturday, with Robert Seiny, treasurer and general manager of the Barr interests, representing the new owners.

The retiring merchant said Saturday night that he had no immediate plans to announce at this time.

Mr. Spencer said that the Barr Co. was founded by Fred and Will Barr, and the brothers are natives of Bluffton. Will operated a dry goods store there prior to opening the variety store in Celina. Even after opening the Ohio venture, he continued the store in Bluffton for several years. Both brothers died in 1954, Will at the age of 80 and Fred at the age of 75.

The company operates as a corporation, with Mrs. Will Barr of Bluffton as vice-president and Mrs. Helen Neer of Urbana, O., as secretary. Mrs. Neer is the daughter of the late Fred Barr. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 23 Jun 1933, Fri ·Page 1

Store Manager Here Suffering From Severe Cuts

K. E. Wertz, manager of Barr and Company's variety store located on Broadway in this city, was entering the side door of the Home Hotel on East Third Street on Tuesday noon when his ankle turned, throwing him headlong into the glass pane of the door. As a result of Wertz's fall, his right hand and arm were lacerated by shattered glass. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- White County Times 23 Mar 1961, Thu ·Page 4

• • Grand Opening Days At Barr's Monticello's New Variety Store**
  • Friday And Saturday, March 17-18**

• A RIOT OF COLOR* - This picture was taken on the first day of the Grand Opening of the newly remodeled and newly stocked Barr Variety Store of Monticello and, it was indeed, a riot of color with everything fresh, new, and lovely. Customers thronged the aisles all day Friday and Saturday while they admired the merchandise, shared in the special values, and marveled at the many new lines which had been added. Toyland is located in the basement of the store with space for souvenirs and a gift shop. The store, which was formerly the W. H. Spencer Co., is one of a chain of five stores with the main office in Celina, Ohio. Owners of the stores are Mrs. Mamie Barr of Bluffton and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Neer of Urbana, Ohio. The general manager is Robert Siney, and the assistant manager is Robert Booher. The manager of the Monticello store is Miss Helen Sink, who has been in charge of the Spencer store here since 1944. The picture was taken from the balcony office in the rear of the main floor of the store and shows the new self-service desks at each entrance. *(Jerry's Photography)*.

• [Picture]*

• HOSTS AND HOSTESSES* for the Grand Opening were (left to right) Bob Straeffer, manager of the store at Frankfort; Helen Sink, manager of the Monticello store; Mrs. Mamie Barr, co-owner of the Barr Company; and Robert Booher, assistant manager. In the background are two of the many beautiful baskets of flowers placed throughout the store, gifts of local and out-of-town business organizations.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 15 Sep 1965, Wed ·Page 6

F.M. Bake Sale The Franklin-Monroe Senior Class will hold a bake sale on Saturday, Sept. 18th, at 8:30 a.m. at the Barr Company in Greenville. There will be homemade bread, cookies, donuts, fresh pies, cakes, brownies, candy, potato salad, chicken and noodles, and fresh eggs. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 17 Dec 1960, Sat ·Page 6

Annual Employee Party The annual employees' party for the Barr Company's Greenville store was held on Thursday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Booher in Celina. Nineteen employees from Greenville were present for the carry-in dinner and gift exchange. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 03 Apr 1939, Mon ·Page 1

Store Manager is Back at Work Here K. E. Wertz, manager of the Barr Company's Greenville store, who, because of the illness of the manager of the firm's branch at Kenton, O., had been temporarily located there, resumed his official duties here today. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 12 Dec 1961, Tue ·Page 3

"Family Night" Is Barr Store Annual Custom Annual "Family Night" is a Barr Store custom, and Wednesday, December 6th, was the second such night for the Monticello store. The Barr Company owns four stores besides the one located on South Main Street here in the city. The other Indiana store is at Frankfort, and three are in Ohio: one at Celina, another at Kenton, and the third at Greenville.

Family Night hours were from 7 to 10 p.m. Customers came in, browsed around, and were served refreshments of donuts and coffee made by Jack Osborne, owner of the Main Cafe.

Besides the regular four employees, extra help was needed to serve the hundreds that attended this special night. Miss Helen Sink is the manager, and Robert Straesser is the assistant manager. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 11 Oct 1929, Fri ·Page 1

• • SHOP LIFTER IS CAUGHT IN STORE; POCKETS FILLED**

Seventeen-Year-Old Rossburg Girl Held in Jail for Shoplifting - Alleged Caught in the Act at Local Five-and-Ten-Cent Store - Pockets Stuffed With Minor Trinkets.

Anna Flanagan, 17 years old, of Rossburg, is being held in custody here today by Greenville police on charges of shoplifting, following her arrest late yesterday afternoon at the Murphy Five and Ten Cent Store, South Broadway.

It is alleged that the young girl was caught in the act by store employees, who held her pending the arrival of police. The girl was thoroughly searched at police headquarters, and according to reports of Police Chief Lynch, her pockets were stuffed with minor trinkets, including twenty imitation diamond rings, several handkerchiefs, perfume, bar pins, and necklaces.

The girl is said to have confessed to stealing some of the loot at the Barr Company's store, and at McLellan's store. She is being held in jail pending arraignment this evening before Mayor Guy D. Hawley.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Franklin Evening Star Mon, Oct 04, 1954 ·Page 1

William R. Barr

• • Rites Conducted**

Funeral services for William R. Barr, a member of the board of directors of Franklin College, were conducted Monday afternoon in the First Baptist Church at Bluffton. Mr. Barr died at the age of 80 at his home in Bluffton Friday after an extended illness. He was co-owner of the Company which operates a chain of variety stores in several Ohio cities. His partner was his brother, Fred H. Barr, who died a week ago in Celina, Ohio. Since 1913, Mr. Barr had been in the business and from 1898 to 1937 operated a retail clothing store in Bluffton.

• • Barr on College Board**

In 1937, he was elected to the board of directors of Franklin College, a position which he held at the time of his death. For 61 years, Mr. Barr was a member and an honorary deacon of the Bluffton Baptist Church. He served ten years as treasurer and a year as the president of the Indiana Baptist Convention and between 1905 to 1951 was vice-president of the Northern Baptist Convention, serving six years as a member of the general council. Mr. Barr had also served several years as a trustee of the Indiana State School at Fort Wayne.

A 32nd degree Mason, he was also a member of the Scottish Rite and Shrine at Fort Wayne, a charter member of the Bluffton Rotary Club, and was past governor of the Indiana Rotary District. The widow, Mrs. Mamie Barr, survives.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monticello Daily Herald Journal 01 Feb 1960, Mon ·Page 1

W. H. Spencer Store Sold Here Helen Sink To Remain As Manager

The W. H. Spencer 5c to $1 store at 105 South Main, in Monticello, opened here in 1929 by W. H. Spencer of Frankfort was sold Saturday to the Barr Company, operators of variety stores in Ohio since 1914. The Spencer store in Frankfort, founded in 1907, was also included in the business transaction, according to owner Clarence Spencer who resides in Frankfort.

The Barr Company was established in Celina, Ohio, in 1914 and now operates stores in Celina, Kenton, and Greenville.

The sale is effective immediately, and the new owners will take over management of the store here and in Frankfort today. Clarence Spencer has been affiliated with both of the W. H. Spencer stores since 1914. When his father (W. H.) passed away in 1943, he assumed management of both the Monticello and Frankfort stores for the estate and in 1944 purchased the two stores from the estate and has operated them personally since that time.

Both stores will continue to operate under the familiar Spencer name for the time being. Miss Helen Sink, manager of the Spencer store in Monticello for the past 15 years, will continue in that capacity. Also, the majority of the employees now working in both stores will be retained by the new owners.

Negotiations for the sale to The Barr Co. have been underway for the past 30 days, and the final papers were signed in the Spencer store at Frankfort Saturday, with Robert Seiny, treasurer and general manager of the Barr interests, representing the new owners.

The retiring merchant said Saturday night that he had no immediate plans to announce at this time. Mr. Spencer said that The Barr Co. was founded by Fred and Will Barr, and the brothers were born and raised in Bluffton. Will Barr operated a dry goods store in Bluffton prior to opening the variety store in Celina and even after opening the Ohio venture, continued the store in Bluffton for several years.

Both brothers died in 1954, Will at the age of 80 and Fred at the age of 75. The company operates as a corporation with Mrs. Will Barr of Bluffton as vice-president and Mrs. Helen Neer of Urbana, Ohio, as secretary. Mrs. Neer is the daughter of the late Fred Barr. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 18 Sep 1953, Fri ·Page 1

• • HEMMERLY NAMED GOODRICH MANAGER**

Announcement was made today by officials of the B. F. Goodrich Tire and Rubber Co., that Ralph D. Hemmerly, Greenville, has been named manager of the company's Greenville store, 329 Broadway.

Hemmerly, who managed the Barr Company's Greenville store for nine years, succeeds Lloyd Garber, who had managed the local Goodrich store for the past year. Garber has since taken a position with another firm in Dayton. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Union City Times-Gazette 14 Jan 1947, Tue ·Page 1

New Manager Is Named For U. C. Business

Building Purchased For New Location Of Warren's Store

Vernon E. Ramsey, former Barr Company manager of the store at Celina, Ohio, Monday succeeded George Schull of Union City as manager of the local Warren's store, 242 North Columbia street.

Mr. Schull, who had served as manager here for the past two years, has been promoted to supervisor of all Warren's stores. He will continue his residence in Union City temporarily.

Mr. Ramsey has had 16 years of experience in the variety store business. Originally from Bluffton, Ind., he served two years in the naval forces, being discharged one year ago. He is already located here, and his wife, Julia, and son, David, plan to move to this city as soon as they are able to find a location. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lima News 17 Feb 1955, Thu ·Page 43

• • Celina C. Of C. Elects, Sets Up Annual Session**

The Celina Chamber of Commerce has elected five new trustees for a three-year term: Robert Siney, John Hinders, John Smalley, Emmett Ashton, and Mary Hale. They join the existing board members.

The officers for the upcoming term have also been selected: - W. J. Schindler as President - Jack Kerns as Vice President - Fred Wimmers as Treasurer - Herbert W. Schindler as Secretary-Manager

The Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting is scheduled for next Thursday evening at the Celina Grade School. The event will feature a meal served by the Celina Band Mothers, with Fred Smith, Vice President of the Gruen Watch Co. of Cincinnati, as the main speaker. This year, the C. of C. plans to recognize Celina Industries and Real Estate Developers, with exhibits from all the industries on display. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lima News 13 Mar 1972, Mon ·Page 6

• • 5 Celina Homes Ransacked**

The investigation continues into the burglary and ransacking of five homes that occurred on Saturday night in the northeast part of Celina. Homeowners are still taking inventories of their belongings, and it appears that the loss in jewelry, money, and other valuables will be substantial, although police have not provided an estimate.

The burglaries took place between 8 and 10 p.m. on Saturday, and in each case, entry was gained by prying open a rear door. All homeowners were away from their residences at the time of the incidents.

Police have noted that some articles were found dropped on the lawn at one home, leading investigators to believe that the burglars may have been frightened away by one of the residents returning home.

The targeted houses are located in a two-block area on Willow and Magnolia drives. The affected homeowners are Robert Eichar, Robert Wurster, Fred Strohl, Robert Siney, and Charles Ayres Sr.

Authorities have limited leads and minimal clues in the case. The burglars appear to have worn gloves, as no fingerprints were found at the scene. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lima News 08 Jun 1953, Mon ·Page 1

• • It Was a Nice Try: Self-Service Cash Register 'System' Fails**

CELINA - Two Alexandria, Ind., men are in jail here for trying to inaugurate self-service at cash registers in the Barr and Co. store Saturday.

Larceny charges have been filed against Lee McNeal, 25, and David Kelly, 25, as a result of their "merchandising innovation."

McNeal was captured in a chase thru the store and down a side strect after a elerk saw him walk behind the counter at the store and remove cash from the till. The $16 loot was recovered.

Robert Siney, a Barr employe, and Hubert Bobenmoyer, lunch counter operator, caught McNeal.

Kelly, implicated by McNeal, was arrested in Alexandria, Ind., Sunday and returned to Celina Sunday by Police Chief John Wiley and Sheriff Bruce Barber.

The officers reported both men were "armed" with toy cap pistols and believe their original intention was to hold up the store. The self service angle developed later, po- lice think. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Times-Bulletin 06 May 1975, Tue ·Page 16

• • Robert E. Siney, 61, of Celina, 64 m.p.h. in 50 m.p.h. zone, pleaded guilty; fined $14 and costs. Highway Patrol radar.**

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 03 Oct 1920, Sun ·Page 7

• • Probably one of the longest moving trips ever made out of Owensboro. Mr. Miller moved the household goods of James Lepper from Owensboro to Greenville, Ohio, in a big truck. He left Owensboro at 4 o'clock Tuesday morning and reached Greenville Thursday night at 8 o'clock. On the return trip, he left Greenville Friday and reached Owensboro last night at 8 o'clock. Mr. Miller went by the way of Vincennes, Terre Haute, and Indianapolis. He said that he traveled on concrete roads part of the way, and the highways were generally very good. Mr. Lepper was formerly engaged in business in Owensboro and has bought a five and ten-cent store in Greenville.**

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 23 Sep 1920, Thu ·Page 10

James H. Lepper, who formerly conducted the Leader 5 and 10 cent store in this city, was in Owensboro Wednesday making arrangements to move his family on next Tuesday to Greenville, Ohio, where he will locate in the future. Mr. Lepper has purchased another 5 and 10 cent store in that city. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 24 Sep 1920, Fri ·Page 12

James H. Lepper, who formerly conducted the Leader 5 and 10 cent store in this city, was in Owensboro Wednesday making arrangements to move his family on next Tuesday to Greenville, Ohio, where he will locate in the future. Mr. Lepper has purchased another 5 and 10 cent store in that city. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Twice-A-Week Messenger 26 Apr 1916, Wed ·Page 2

CLASSIFIED LIST OF NEW MEMBERS SIGNED FOR C.OFC. Total of 518 Pledged For Owensboro's New Civic Organization VISIT COUNTY TUESDAY Monster Meeting Will Follow the Campaign Being Waged In Country Districts Fifteen more names were added to the roster of the Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, making the total last night 518 members. There were but few of the committee able to give attention to the work on Saturday as there was too much business to be handled during the day at the houses of the business people. Tuesday morning there will be a general offensive movement on the country people. Ten captains of as many teams, each of which will include ten live ones will begin Tuesday morning the roundup, and there is little chance for anyone to escape who has so far gotten by the solicitors. Those who were signed up Saturday were a few who had already been seen but were not ready to sign up. Following the campaign for members in the county there will be a monster meeting of all the members of the Chamber of Commerce and the formal organization of the body gone into. Below is given a classified list of all the members of the Chamber of Commerce who have signed up for three years: Five and Ten Cent Stores - F. A. Field, with Woolworth's store; Jas. H. Lepper with the Leader. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 12 Apr 1916, Wed ·Page 5

Manager James Lepper of the Leader had his store fixed up with some of his best attractions, and in front was a novel way of advertising tickets for the old fiddlers' concert Thursday night. He had an attractive card announcing the event and then sample tickets to the concert attached nearby. In speaking of his sales, Mr. Lepper said, "I am well pleased with the results. I got back on yesterday, the first day, more than I invested as one of the thirty. I think that the local merchants now realize that cooperation always spells success. It spells it for all the merchants, and the greater number that are cooperating, the greater will be the success, just as the greater will be the failure when there is a large number acting in antagonistic ways. What is wanted is just what we are all practicing here now in Owensboro, the showing the other fellow real fellowship and forgetting for the time being that we are trying to sell to him. I am just tickled to death over the results so far, and, of course, this is only in its infancy. The future is very bright. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 27 Feb 1916, Sun ·Page 2

"HIS FIRST SPEECH" "I am a little boy. I arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Lepper, corner Seventh and Lewis, February 26. Although I have been in the world a mighty little while, I'm boss at our house. Papa has made big brag that he will have me working for him before many weeks, but I'll fool him. I'll lose my guess if I don't give him cold feet before the winter's over by waking him up in the middle of the night for paregoric. I am the owner of a very nice voice, if you don't believe it, ask the neighbors. Owing to my late arrival in the town, I have not been out in society and have met but few people. If my name is not in your calling list, I will be pleased to have you place it there. I will sign my name. Robert William Lepper." James H. Lepper is the manager of the Leader Five and Ten cent store recently opened. Mr. Lepper and his wife have been making their home in Owensboro for the past two months. Papa Lepper was busy giving out cigars Saturday. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertisement from Messenger-Inquirer 13 Apr 1916, Thu ·Page 2

Leader 5c and 10c Store -SAYS The words of praise, expressions of gratitude on the part of Owensbord's friends, the FARMERS of Daviess and adjoining counties, spells SUCCESS for the merchants' endeavors of putting on this TREAT week. This firm stands ready at any and ALL times to cooperate more closely with the farmer, and working hand in hand, larger and better OW- ENSBORO for all.

"LEST YOU FORGET" OUR SATURDAY ALL-DAY SPECIAL With a 25-cent purchase or over, we give you choice of GRANITE WARE, 24 to 68-cent values, for .. 10c A full, fresh line of Cakes and Candy. .10c per pound We're looking for you strong, Saturday all day A new shipment of Ladies' and Children's Hat Frames, some trimmed, 79c. Save here on your spring hat gear. The Leader 5 & 10 Cent Store ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 08 Apr 1916, Sat ·Page 3

"LEAVE IN AN AUTO BUT RETURN WITH TEAM OF MULES Three of 'Thirty Live Ones,' However, Extend Invitations to Hundreds

CROWDS ARE EXPECTED

To Attend Owensboro Spring Carnival During the Six Days of Next Week

Three men and a mule was the conclusion of an automobile party's experiences Friday. The said party started from Owensboro at 9 o'clock Friday morning bent on giving what information they could and receiving the same relative to certain big doings which 'Thirty Live Ones' are fixing to have around Owensboro next week.

In the party were Theodore Levy, T. J. Turley, and James Lepper. The party left in an automobile. Before returning to Owensboro, they had traveled in most every kind of vehicle except an airship and a submarine. The latter vehicle would have been a choice at times to these three of the 'Thirty.' However, they went, and they came back, and they say they conquered. They further state in due and legal form, and to the best of their knowledge and belief, that if it has ever dawned on Owensboro that there is going to be some crowd in this town next week, Owensboro is not mistaken. There is going to be some crowd.

Down Rome way, the wayfarers learned of the first big flank movement that is anticipated. About everyone down there has enlisted under the colors and is planning an attack in phalanx movement. No hollow squares either.

They are coming solid, en masse, and all other kinds of formations that mean coming. This was what the three learned. But the worst was yet to come. After leaving Rome, the itinerary carried this car of Live Ones down towards Moseleyville and onward through that fine portion of Daviess and McLean counties toward Calhoun.

After leaving the macadam road, the party began to have nightmares. First pushing, then pulling. Mud got too heavy, and a farm team had to be requisitioned. Here's where one Thomas Jefferson Turley starred. If anyone thinks this same T. Jeff doesn't know every mother's son of the people between Owensboro and Central City, he ought to take a trip with him once. T. Jeff got service, and the kind of service that counts.

From Calhoun to Glenville was the end of auto traveling. All along the route, 'Thirty Live Ones' had shaken hands, given bills, extended personal invitations, as only the Peerless One could do in his palmiest days. They didn't find anybody, however, who hadn't heard of what a good time Owensboro was going to give her neighbors next week, and they all said they were coming. They are anxious to come.

Back to Calhoun, and then on to Livermore, where similar experiences awaited the three men. From Livermore to Livia and then to Utica. Side trips were made off the main roads, and everybody that could be seen was invited to come to Owensboro.

From Utica, the men made their weary way back to Owensboro, arriving just about twelve hours after they left. They had certainly seen some people and told about the big doings.

Mr. Turley said last night that there would be such crowds coming to Owensboro next week as never before. He was thoroughly impressed with the idea that the country people had entered into the whole spirit of the big affair and Owensboro that she couldn't offer them a good time without having the invitation accepted. This spirit was fostered by the live ones, and they assured everyone that the invitation was genuine and meant to be accepted." ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 16 Sep 1919, Tue ·Page 2

"SAFE AT LEADER STORE IS ROBBED

Thief Unlocked Safe and Took $34.60, Leaving $160 in Another Package

A robbery that occurred about the middle of last week is still being investigated by the local police department, but as yet no warrants have been issued, although one or two parties are strongly suspected of the crime.

About the middle of last week, the safe of The Leader 5 and 10 cent store at 123 West Second street was entered and robbed of $34.60 in money. The entrance to the store was made through a window. The party getting the money evidently knew the local conditions about the store as nothing was left to indicate a theft had been committed, until this was discovered by Jas H. Lepper, manager of the store when he unlocked the safe door the next morning. The day lock was on, and this was known by the party getting the money. After the money was taken, the door was closed and the safe locked. At the time the $34.60 was taken, there was $160 in another package which was not disturbed.

Mr. Lepper reported the theft to the police department, and Chief Haynes and Officer Lyons have both been working on the case. While they have a slight clue, the proprietor has refused to take out any warrants up to this time. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Twice-A-Week Messenger 12 Feb 1916, Sat ·Page 3

THE LEADER" IS NAME OF NEW FIVE AND TEN CENT STORE.

Formal Opening Will Be on Saturday - Twenty-five Girls Will Be Employed

"The Leader" five and ten cent store has been established in the Sweeney building on Second street, near St. Ann, with James H. Lepper as manager. The opening date for the new enterprise will be held on Saturday with a series of special sales in granite and chinaware.

The local store is one of a system of 105 stores with significant buying power and will feature several variety departments. One of the unique aspects of the store is that none of the twenty-five employees will be behind counters, except for the candy counter, and the entire floor space will be under the personal supervision of the manager. The store boasts a large and well-selected stock aimed at meeting all customer demands ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 30 Mar 1919, Sun ·Page 13

Fred P. Ambrose To Be Night Watchman In The Central Business District

Practically all business houses on Second and Third streets from St. Ann to Crittenden have secured the services of Fred F. Ambrose as a night watchman. Mr. Ambrose has been on the police force for fifteen years and has given faithful service throughout that time. The merchants are very fortunate in securing Mr. Ambrose to guard and protect their property. There are forty or more firms in these four blocks, but Mr. Ambrose will be able to cover the entire territory every hour throughout the night.

The following business houses have signed up for this service, and it is quite likely that more will join later: Chas. Broeker, Owensboro Grain Co., T. J. Turley Co., McAtee, Lyddane & Ray, S. W. Anderson Co., J. O. Sourbeer, Vick Grocery Co., Rowland & Reynolds, Kendall & Hill, J. W. Barr, Wright Machine Co., Bernard O'Bryan, B. Salinger, The Fair, Gant's Book Store, Red Spot, Dell & Co., Westerfield Furn. Co., Piggley Wiggley, Bernard Hazel, Geo. H. Cox Co., Progress Candy Co., Owensboro Auto Supply Co., Lepper 5 & 10c Store, The Ten Cent Store, Robert Nanz, Levy's, Fred Weir, Owensboro Banking Co., Henry Pardon, W. E. Lashbrook & Son, R. C. Hardwick, Model Laundry, Owensbord Plumb. & Heating Co., Beck's, Guthrie, Samuels-Bittel, L, H. Reinhardt, Public Drug, Pedley & Oderman. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 07 Jun 1920, Mon ·Page 1

THE LEADER 5 AND 10 CENT STORE IS BOUGHT BY BOWLING GREEN FIRM

A deal which has been pending for some time was consummated today when the Leader 5c and 10c Stores of Owensboro and Morganfield were sold to H. A. McElroy and company of Bowling Green.

Mr. Lepper, manager of these stores, has been slow to dispose of these properties, but the McElroy interests have been trying to locate in Owensboro for some time, could not find a suitable location, and pressed for the purchase of the Leader.

Mr. R. F. Osteen and three assistants, representing the McElroy interests, are in Owensboro today invoicing the stock and expect to take possession at once.

H. A. McElroy and company have eleven other stores in Western Kentucky and Tennessee. They intend to conduct the store on practically the same basis as it has been run in the past. The building will be remodeled at once and then thrown open to the public under the new management.

The transaction was negotiated by A. S. Griffin and company. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 08 Jun 1920, Tue ·Page 10

Miss Nellie Nixon, V. D. Dismang, J. C. Martin, J. C. Brown, and R. F. Osten of Bowling Green are in the city taking an inventory of the stock of Lepper's Five and Ten cent store, which the firm of H. A. McElroy recently purchased. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 01 Jun 1920, Tue ·Page 4

Representatives from the McElroy Co., of Bowling Green, were in the city yesterday endeavoring to negotiate with [Manager] for the sale of the Leader 5 and 10 cent store. Manager Lepper stated last night, however, there would be no sale of the Leader. The McElroy company is establishing a chain of such stores in the state. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 10 Feb 1916, Thu ·Page 2

James Lepper Announces Opening of 'The Leader' on February 12

Announcement was made Thursday by James H. Lepper manager of the 'Leader' five and ten cent store, that the new store will be opened to the public Saturday, February 12, at which time a series of special sales will De held throughout the different departments in the store.

The new store is located in the Sweeney building, 123 West Second street. For the past several weeks the store roos has been undergoing repairs and remodeling to suit the use of a modern up-to-date five and ten cent store.

The 'Leader' is one of a chain of 105 stores operated by cooperative buying and management. With the exception of the candy department the store counters will be arranged to allow the customers to wait on themselves or give a clerk the opportunity to go with a customer who desires to purchase from the different departments. The store will employ twenty-five sales girls. A complete line of variety goods will be carried by the new store. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Evansville Courier and Press 27 Sep 1920, Mon ·Page 3

James H. Lepper, who formerly operated a five and ten cent store at Owensboro, has purchased a five and ten cent store at Greenville, O. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 10 Feb 1916, Thu ·Page 3

"The Leader" is the name of a new five and ten cent store.

Its formal opening will be on Saturday, featuring a series of special sales in granite and chinaware. The local store is one of a system of 105 stores with buying power and will have various departments. One notable feature is that, except for the candy counter, none of the twenty-five girls will be behind counters. The entire floor space will be personally supervised by the manager. The stock is large, well-selected, and aimed at meeting various demands. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Greenville Daily News 05 Jan 1922, Thu ·Page 3

The Missionary Circle of the Baptist church will meet with Mrs. James Lepper, 506 Sycamore street, Friday, January 6th, at 2:00 o'clock.

Mrs. W. G. Bishop, Pres. Mrs. E. C. Gessler, Sec'y ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily News-Tribune 03 May 1922, Wed ·Page 1

WILL LOCATE IN MICHIGAN

James H. Lepper, who has been the manager of the People's Store in this city for the past two years, will, on May 18th, dispose of his household goods and, with his wife and family, will locate in Otsego, Michigan.

The Lepper family has been residing at 506 Sycamore Street while living in Greenville, and they have made many friends who are loathe to see them leave.

Mr. Lepper will have charge of a novelty store in the above city. Mr. Burgess of Bellefontaine will succeed Mr. Lepper as the manager of the People's Store in Greenville. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette 20 May 1922, Sat ·Page 5

TO OPEN STORE

BLUFFTON, Ind., May 19. James Lepper, formerly a local clerk, has sold his interest in the Barr company store at Greenville, O., and is buying stock for a new store which he will open at Otsego, Mich. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Classified Ad from The Daily News-Tribune 06 Oct 1920, Wed ·Page 5

WANTED WANTED-Having recently purchased the People's Store, I desire to rent a house; modern six-room house prefered. Phone or call at People's Store. Jas. H. Lepper 10 5 6 *.. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Classified Ad from The Daily News-Tribune 20 Oct 1920, Wed ·Page 3

FOR SALE-Three 10 and one 5-foot show case.Bargain for purchaser. See Lepper at the People's Store. 10 16 Gt

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Herald-Palladium 26 Nov 1927, Sat ·Page 4

BANGOR Contractor Young of South Haven is now installing a large plate glass front display window in the DeHaven building recently purchased by J. H. Lepper. Mr. Lepper also intends to install a large window in the side of the building, on Railroad street, thereby giving much more display space, also adding greatly to the appearance of the building. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Herald-Palladium 24 Aug 1928, Fri ·Page 10

BANGOR Charles Bennett of Salina [Celina], O. has purchased the J. H. Lepper store which has been operated by E. A. Kirby for the past several months and will arrive next month to take charge of his new business. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Herald-Palladium 27 Jan 1928, Fri ·Page 6

BANGOR Manager Geo. M. Low of the Riverwood Hills golf course has leased the second floor of the Lepper building and has opened a practice course for the enjoyment of local fans. A driving net and putting cup has been installed and 'is being used every afternoon and evening by local fans.

...two new troops for the village under the new schedule of the Fruit Belt Area Council, of which Mr. Norg is the Scout Executive. The three Scoutmasters will be Percy Schroyer, Dr. E. L. Morrison, and Kenneth Persing. Committeemen chosen for the new organization are: J. H. Lepper, Rev. Roth, W. V. Ackley, Henry M. Karsten, Dr. D. L. Cole, Glen Wertenberger, Rev. Ozanne, Wallace Freestone, Emerson Orr, N. F. Steinman, J. A. Schaefer, L. G. Church. Rev. Fuller, A. L. Robbins, W. L. Decker, D. E. Peterson, Lewis McKinney and A. W. Wakeman.

A delegation composed of Clarence Stebbins, M. L. Bosier, H. M. Karsten, George Low, Floyd Stebbins. J. H. Lepper and Herbert A. Wood attended the meeting of the West Michigan Tourist and Resort association held in the Park American hotel in Kalamazoo, Friday evening. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Herald-Palladium 05 Jun 1928, Tue ·Page 5

WEST. MICHIGAN MEN GET PATENTS WASHINGTON. June 5-Among western Michigan patents are the following: Richard M. Judd, Dowagiac; casing hangar to direct draft regulation for warm air furnaces. Abraham Friedland, Benton Harbor; building construetion. James H. Lepper, Bangor; display rack.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 25 May 1939, Thu ·Page 1

STORE ROBBERY IS FOILED BY POLICE

Thieves Frightened Away From Barr Company Store

An alarm sounded at 1:30 a.m. today by Merchant Policeman Omer Coates enabled fellow officers to prevent a robbery at the Barr Company's local store, 507-509 South Broadway. The store is managed by Kenneth Werts.

Officer Coates found the front door of the establishment ajar a few minutes after he tried the locks on rear doors and then immediately summoned aid in an effort to trap the robbers. However, the combined police search was futile.

A subsequent examination showed that the front door lock had been "picked" open, and police believe that the men, frightened by Officer Coates' appearance at the rear door, had fled before he reached the main entrance to the store.

The Barr store was the scene of a safe-cracking less than six months ago. Police records show that on the night of Sunday, November 27, approximately $120 in cash loot was obtained there by burglars who battered open a steel safe. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 28 Nov 1938, Mon ·Page 1

YEGGS BATTER OPEN BARR COMPANY SAFE; $120 CASH MISSING Robbery Discovered Early Monday; Work Done With Hammer and Chisel

FINGERPRINTS CHECKED

Safe Carried Into Cellar Of Business Establishment

A crude but nevertheless effective safe-cracking job, which netted burglars approximately $120 in cash loot, was perpetrated sometime between nine o'clock Sunday night and eight a.m. today at the Barr & Company's Greenville store, at 509 South Broadway.

Fingerprint clews are now being checked by both Greenville police and the Darke County sheriff's office.

According to police reports, entrance to the store, which handles general merchandise, was gained through a rear door. The lock was forced open.

The safe, a compact, steel box-type vault, was either carried or dragged from the rear of the main store room to a cellar stairway, where it was slid down a wooden runway into the basement.

Using a hammer and chisel, which they obtained from store counters, the burglars battered off the combination. The repeated hammering virtually ruined the safe, it is further reported.

All Cash Taken Checkbooks and papers in an inside vault were ignored, but all cash, including small change, was removed. K. E. Werts, store manager, states that the loot will not exceed $120.

However, but for the fact that Mr. Werts had banked the bulk of the store's business receipts at a late hour Saturday evening, the loss would have been much greater.

The Barr Company Store adjoins Byrne's Central Drug Store, which was open until after eleven o'clock Sunday night. Due to the fact that no hammering or other strange noises were heard by employees of the drug firm, it is the belief of investigators that the robbery was not perpetrated until after midnight.

Lingerie Missing A check on merchandise fails to reveal any substantial loss, although Store Manager Werts believes that a small quantity of lingerie is missing. Reports that several floor lamps have been removed cannot be confirmed until after a thorough investigation is completed, it was further announced.

Police believe that the safe-cracking was the work of "home talent" or at least some person or persons who had carefully surveyed the store during the past few days. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Times 12 Jan 1948, Mon ·Page 10

SAFE CRACKERS BUSY IN KENTON

Kenton, O., Jan. 12 (INS) - Safe crackers stole an estimated $1,500 in cash from safes in three Kenton business places over the weekend. Police reported today that the burglaries were at the Nourse Department Store, the Barr Company Novelty Store, and a branch office of the Lima Loan Company.

In addition to the safes cracked, the burglars damaged a second safe at the loan company and another in a branch office of the West Ohio Gas Company without getting into either. Kenton police were given brief descriptions of two suspects whom they are seeking. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 18 Jul 1961, Tue ·Page 2

More than 25 persons, employes and members of their families, at- tended the annual summer picnic of The Barr company at the Green- ville city park Sunday evening. A potluck carry-in dinner was held. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 08 Sep 1947, Mon ·Page 1

YEGGS OBTAIN $492 AT BARR STORE HERE

A break-in at the Barr store, located at 507-509 South Broadway, sometime after 9:50 p.m. on Saturday and early Sunday morning resulted in a cash loot of $492.28. Store manager Ralph D. Hemmerly reported the incident to the police.

An investigation suggests that the burglar or burglars had hidden in the store's basement when it closed on Saturday night and escaped through a back door, which was found locked from the inside. There were no signs of forced entry on the door.

The small steel safe at the rear of the store was damaged and opened during the break-in. Hemmerly noted that no merchandise appeared to be missing as a result of the incident.

This robbery is the first significant one in the city since August 22, when another safe was cracked at the Gallaher drug store, yielding $172 in loot. On the same night, an unsuccessful attempt was made to crack a safe at the Farmers' Co-Operative Dairy on East Third Street, and the G. C. Murphy store on South Broadway was entered, resulting in a $40 merchandise loss. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 25 Sep 1947, Thu ·Page 1

20 RINGS REMOVED FROM SHOW WINDOW AT MARTIN STORE

Diamond rings valued at $3,155 were stolen early today from a display window at the Fritz Martin jewelry store, 316 South Broadway. A glass cutter was used to open a large, round hole in the window, which was thoroughly ransacked. Price tags on the rings being displayed materially aided the thief or thieves in carefully picking out those of the highest value.

The theft was discovered at 5:20 a.m. by a Greenville taxicab driver, Frank Folkerth, as he was en route to work. Police report that the robbery was perpetrated sometime between midnight and the hour of discovery.

Police investigators state that they have no tangible clues. Fritz Martin, store owner, states that 20 rings were removed from the window, one of which carried a $500 price tag. The average price of the rings stolen was slightly over $150, he stated.

Martin further reported that the entire loss would be "100 per cent" covered by insurance. The theft today is the third major crime in the city during the past month. On the night of September 7, a safe was cracked at the Barr & Company store, 507-509 South Broadway, with $492 cash loot being obtained. On August 22, another safe was forced open at the Gallaher drug store, also on South Broadway, and $172 cash loot taken. The Martin store has been at its present location for the last 13 years but is being moved to larger quarters at 410 South Broadway before the Christmas holidays. The owner, Fritz Martin, also operates other retail jewelry stores at Covington and West Milton. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 26 Oct 1933, Thu ·Page 3

ORGANIZE NEW GROCERY FIRM IN GREENVILLE

Press dispatches disclose that Articles of Incorporation have been certified by George S. Myers, Secretary of State, to The O'Brien Grocery Company. The incorporators of the concern are Roy Houtz, Chelcie Bailey, and Edward A. Gaubeaux, Jr., all of this city.

The new concern will operate a cash and carry grocery and meat market in the former location of The Barr and Company on South Broadway in this city. The store will be in charge of Roy Houtz, who is also vice-president of the new enterprise. Mr. Houtz will be remembered by Greenville citizens as the manager of the first A. & P store in this city and also as the former assistant manager of the Murphy 5 and 10c store in this city. Mr. Houtz brings a long and varied retail experience to the new concern.

The meat department of the store will be in charge of Chelcie Bailey, who formerly operated his own meat market on Public Square and also operated his own slaughterhouse in this city.

Robert P. O'Brien, of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, the president of the new concern, has other extensive business interests in Indiana and Illinois and will not be active in the management of the new concern.

This store is to have what is an innovation in grocery stores in this locality in that it will have a section set off and outfitted as a ladies lounge where shoppers may rest when they are on a downtown shopping tour.

Mr. Houtz stated when interviewed that the new establishment plans to handle the highest quality foodstuffs at popular prices. He and Mr. Bailey hope to meet many of their old customers at the new establishment. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 29 Jan 1940, Mon ·Page 1

TWO SHOPLIFTERS TO WORK ON STREETS

Mayor Randall Fines Pair $25; Imposed Jail Terms

A "pay or else" plan of dealing with future Greenville city law violators was inaugurated today by Mayor Ernest R. Randall during police court hearings for two men, John Reynolds, 41, Lima, and Raymond Bates, 43, home at large, arrested Saturday night on shoplifting charges.

After fining the pair $25 and costs each, the Mayor ruled that unless immediate payment was received they would be put to work on city streets. Neither was able to raise the necessary money, and the work order was immediately enforced.

Police state that the two men had stolen ten pairs of socks from the Barr & Company store, South Broadway, and three bags of coffee and two bottles of wine from an A & P Store before they were apprehended. Excepting one bottle of wine, which they had consumed, all of the loot was recovered.

In addition to the fines, both Reynolds and Bates were given 30-day jail sentences. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Daily News-Democrat 04 May 1909, Tue ·Page 5

Miss Alice Barr and James Lepper spent Sunday in Huntington with Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Culbertson .- Bluffton Banner. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Decatur Daily Democrat Newspaper Archives June 23, 1909 Page 3

There will be two weddings, in Bluffton tomorrow in society circles. The marriage of Miss Alice Barr and Mr. James Lepper will take place at high noon, while the marriage of Miss Nina Feeser and Mr. Henry Strohm will take place at eight o'clock in the evening .- Bluffton News. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Indianapolis Journal Newspaper Archives June 22, 1899 Page 3

Muncie Weddings Special to the Indianapolis Journal Muncie, Ind., June 21 The marriage of Miss Madge Walling, of Muncie, and Mr. William Barr, of Bluffton, took place this evening at the home of the bride's mother, and after dinner the couple departed for the East. The wedding was performed by Rev. Mr. Cripp, of Bluffton, assisted by Rev. Oxtoby. Miss Emma Walling, sister of the bride, was bridesmald, and Miss Alice Barr, of Bluffton, sister of the groom, was maid of honor. Mr. Walter Shields, of Bluffton, was best man, Dr. Breneman, of Columbia City, being the usher. Mrs. Daly, of Bluffton, played the wedding march. They will be at home in two weeks at Bluffton, where the bride has been superintendent of music in the public schools for two years. The out-of-town guests were: Mr. Nat Barr, of Rochester, N. Y .; Mr. and Mrs. Onmer Jones, of Kokomo; Misses Medor and Adalor Jones, of Kokomo; Mr. and Mrs. Will Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Harry McFarren, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Barr, J. W. Goodyear, Miss Nora North, Earle McFarren, Fred Barr, Fred Reynolds, all of Bluffton, and Dr. Forrest Brenneman, of Columbia City. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Montpelier Evening Herald Newspaper Archives July 1, 1908 Page 3

The wedding of Miss May Iter, of Ft. Wayne, to Fred Barr, of Bluffton, took place last evening at the home of the bride's brother, Frank Iter, in Bluffton, being attended by their relatives and friends. Miss Blanche Maddox played the wedding march and was among the several friends trom this city who were in attendance. Mr. Barr is a member of the firm of Bender, Walmer & Barr, at Bluffton.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Montpelier Evening Herald Newspaper Archives June 5, 1908 Page 7

Mrs. S. W. Tait and son Samuel and Master Fred Barr saw Buffalo Bill at Muncie today. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fort Wayne Weekly Sentinel Newspaper Archives August 9, 1911 Page 7

FIRE DEPARTMENT ELECTS.

Bluffton. Ind .. Aug. 3 .-- At a meeting of the city fire department Wednesday evening new officers were elected for the ensuing year. They are as follows: Lem Stout, chief: William Clark, foreman; Harry Stout, assistant foreman: Erman Mentzer. secretary: Fred Barr, treasurer. The department is made up of thirteen members. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Based on newspaper ads in the Piqua Daily Call

Sometime between September 5, 1974 and March 26, 1975, Lamb's 5 & 10 of Covington became Barr's. 10 N. High St. Covington, Ohio. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily News-Tribune, Greenville, Ohio 01 Apr 1921, Fri ·Page 4

There is an advertisement that lists the business as Barr & Co. (People's Store) suggesting that the People's Store was under ownership by Barr Company by April 1, 1921. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate, Greenville Ohio 14 Oct 1932, Fri ·Page 3

There is an ad for Barr & Co., listed as formerly Peoples Store) suggesting the name had been changed from People's Store to Barr's by October 14, 1932. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily News-Tribune 28 Oct 1920, Thu ·Page 3

There is an advertisement that lists the business as Barr & Co. (People's Store) suggesting that the People's Store was under ownership by Barr Company by October 28, 1920.

Remodeling Sale .. THE PEOPLES' STORE Under the firm name of Barr & Co.'s 5c and 10c Stores, with variety departments, extend a cordial invitation to citizens of Darke County and Greenville to visit and inspect our REMODELED Store, 419 Broadway, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1920 ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Greenville Democrat 06 Oct 1920, Wed ·Page 1

PEOPLE'S STORE CHANGES HANDS Barr & Co., of Bluffton, Indiana, who purchased the People's Store in this city, took charge of the business Thursday. The People's Store was started in 1902 by Wm. Kurz, in the room now occupied by J. C. Weaver & Son's drug store. About ten years ago Mr. Kurz removed his stock to a room in the Ohio block, where he has built up a prosperous business. He expects to devote all his time in the future to the manufacture of "Sealstick" paint and Easter baskets, in which he is interested. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dayton Daily News 25 Apr 1920, Sun ·Page 42

MOTOR CRASHES THROUGH WINDOW CELINA April 24. - While attempting to park her automobile, Mrs. Leroy Piper lost control and crashed into the front of Barr & Co.'s store. Two large, plate-glass windows were broken, while hats and dishes on display were wrecked. Mrs. Piper received no injury; her little daughter a slight cut on the hip, while the automobile was slightly damaged. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily News-Tribune 25 Jul 1921, Mon ·Page 6

A' new front is being built in the building occupied by Barr & Co., east side of Broadway. When completed it will have a center entrance with show windows on either side and will make a splendid appearance. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Findlay Republican Courier Newspaper Archives January 9, 1958 Page 16

Bird Resigns Post With Barr Company KENTON, Jan. 8 - Lawrence B. Bird, Kenton, has resigned his post as manager of the Barr Co. here after serving in that capacity for the past 34 years. He has been in the business for the past 40 years serving first in Lima, then. Delaware and finally coming to Kenton where he first held the position of assistant manager of the store. His retirement will end a long career and he has no immediate plans for the future. Succeeding Mr. Bird will be Herbert F. Flower, 36, of Marion, who has been assistant manager of the G. C. Murphy Co. in Marion. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate Fri, Aug 08, 1980 ·Page 3

Pagoda Inn to Open The Pagoda Inn, an oriental food restaurant, is set to open at the site of the Treaty Villa Restaurant, 661 Wagner Ave., sometime in September, according to owner and manager Lee Horn. Mrs. Horn, a former Greenville resident, is married to Carl Horn, who was the manager of Barr's, a five-and-dime store previously located in downtown Greenville. They lived in Greenville from 1957 to 1967. Mrs. Horn mentioned the new restaurant will offer both oriental and American food options to cater to those who may not prefer oriental cuisine. The menu will include beef, poultry, and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches, "famous" egg rolls, and Won Ton soup. The restaurant aims to accommodate 80 people, providing both sit-down and carry-out services. Currently, Mrs. Horn is overseeing the renovation of the restaurant's exterior, interior, and kitchen. She resides in an apartment north of Greenville.

After leaving Greenville, the Horns moved to Celina, then to Coldwater, Mich., where they operated a shoe store. However, their fondness for Greenville prompted their return. "We like Greenville better than anyplace else," she added.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, September 17th, 1964

The Barr Company To Celebrate 50th Anniversary Friday and Saturday

The Barr Co. of Celina is celebrating their 50th anniversary on Friday and Saturday, September 18 and 19, with a big celebration.

The company that first began its operation in 1914 with four women employees and 1200 square feet of floor space has expanded considerably in the past 50 years.

The store today has 14,300 square feet of floor space and 30 full-time employees.

Be sure to attend the Barr Company's 50th-anniversary celebration and register for some of the nice prizes that will be given away. Be sure to check their ad in this issue of the Chronicle. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, September 24th, 1964

Over 7,000 Attend Barr's 50th Anniv. Celebration Sales

The management of the Barr Co., in Celina, was more than satisfied with the turnout over the weekend for the 50th anniversary celebration of the company. Over 7,000 people registered for the free gifts. Two customers who were at the store when it opened its doors 50 years ago, Mrs. Robert Andrews of Celina rural route and Mrs. Steve Bettinger of N Mill street, Celina, were on hand for the celebration. Also present were Mrs. Beatrice Deardoff and Mrs. Ralph Mertz who were two of Mr. Barr's first employees. The Barr Co now has stores in Celina (headquarters), Greenville, Kenton, Frankfort, Indiana, and Monticello, Indiana. The founders were Fred and Will Barr. The owners now are Mrs. Robert Neer, daughter of Fred Barr, and Mrs. Will Barr. The general manager is Mr. Robert Siney, and Edward Kuenning is the Celina store manager.

Winners of the 50th-anniversary drawing are as follows:

- Admiral Music Center: Mrs. Leander Tangeman, Chickasaw. - Chair Hair Dryer: Mrs. Joseph Nerderman, Celina route 1. - Stand Hair Dryer: Bessie Schroyer, Celina route 1. - Boy's Bicycle: Lloyd Schell, St. Marys. - Girl's Bicycle: Kathy Balanier, Dayton. - Sabre Saw: Roy Lee Hook, Rockford. - 3/8" Drill: II Bowden, Celina. - 7" Power Saw: Eugene Frysinger, Mendon.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 9 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, August 4th, 1960

Miss Jean Davis of Coldwater, Michigan and Robert Siney of Celina were married at the Methodist Church in Coldwater, Michigan on Sunday, July 24. Rev. Butterfield officiated at the services. William Zink of St. Marys served as best man for Mr. Siney. A reception was held at the Coldwuter, Michigan Country club. The bridegroom, for many years, was manager at the Barr Store in Celina and is the brother of Mrs. Robert Boedicker of here. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 4 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, September 16th, 1965

Barr Company Marks 51st Anniversary Friday and Saturday The Barr Company in Celina will mark its 51st anniversary Friday and Saturday, September 17 and 18, with a special sale. The store, presently employing 30 sales clerks and occupying more than 14,000 square feet of merchandising space in the downtown business district of Celina, began operations in 1914 with four clerks and slightly more than 1,000 square feet of store space.

Five merchandise prizes will be offered, no purchase necessary, to persons registering at the store Friday and Saturday. A drawing is scheduled at 9 p. m. Saturday and winners will receive either, a three-piece set of luggage, first prize; a pole lamp,second prize; an aluminum folding cot complete with foam mattress, third prize: a full-size Cannon blanket, fourth prize, or an electric kitchen clock, fifth prize. Check the Chronicle ad this week and attend the anniversary event Friday and Saturday.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Celina Democrat., September 07, 1917, Image 1

CLOSE CALL FOR AUTOISTS AT EDGEWATER PARK

Druggist Willshire Hight had his shoulder dislocated and Fred Barr, well known local merchant, was badly shaken up last Tuesday, when an automobile driven by the latter was struck by a W. O. traction car at the Edgewater Park crossing. They were returning from an inspection of the work done by the dredge along the front of Edgewater park and did not hear the approaching interurban car until the nose ofthtir marhine was on the track. Both jumped. The auto was badly wrecked.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Lima Times-Democrat Thu, Sep 06, 1917 ·Page 8

ONE HURT WHEN WESTERN OHIO CAR HITS AUTO

WAPAKONETA, Sept. 6 .- Two Celina men were badly shaken up. and one of them injured, when an automobile in which they were rid- ing was struck by a Western Ohio The accident occurred at Edgewater park, near the coppora- tion limits, this side of Celine. Fred' Barr, owner and driver of the car, a five-passenger Overland, accompan- led by "Doc" Hight, Celins druggist, was enroute to Edgewater park on the banks of the reservoir, and had made the turn from the pike,, paral- lel to the estern Ohio tracks, when they first noticed the approaching west bound limited car. An effort was made by the driver of the auto- mobile to stop his machine, and the engine "died" while it was on the tracks.

car.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lima News Tue, Nov 29, 1949 ·Page 12

Man Loses License CELINA, Nov. 29 Fred Barn, 71, Celina, was fined $100 and costs, and sentenced to 10 days in the county jail and had his driver's license suspended for one year when he entered a plea of guilty to charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol when arraigned before Judge Paul P. Dull Monday in Mercer-co Common Pleas court.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Van Wert Daily Bulletin Newspaper Archives January 17, 1916 Page 3

The Barr-Lepper store of St. Marys,vis being moved to Owensboro, Kentucky, accompained by its manager, James Lepper and family. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Van Wert Daily Bulletin Newspaper Archives September 18, 1915 Page 3

A horde of honey bees besieged the Barr Lepper Confectionery, at St. Marys, presumably attracted by candy carried in stock at [both places?]. The bees for sometime showed no inclination to go away. even when decisive methods were used. A smudge finally proved effective. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives February 4, 1921 Page 19

James Lepper, formerly of St. Marys and a member of the fast groving concern of the Barr-Lepper Co., announced this week tho opening of a new store at Kenton, in addition to the string of stores already established. Mr. Lepper is in charge of the Greenville store. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ZoomInfo

In 1979 the McKirnan Brothers purchased the Barr Co. warehouse on Schunck Rd. in Celina. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Building Witness. (1946). United States: Building Witness Publishing Company.

Celina Sales & Service Building: Plans approved. Work to. start at once. Owner:Dixon Motor Sales Co. Architect: Lymon T. Strong, Lima, O, 1 story brick, steel & concrete construction, size 160x67, Building Addition: Plans approved. Work to atart at once. Owner: The Barr Co. Architect: Lymon T. Strong, Lima, O. 2 story & basement, stone, brick steel & concrete construction, size 106x22, ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives September 14, 1952 Page 27

Forger Gets 2-Year Probation at Celina CELINA, Sept. 13 . Martin L. Newland, Jr .. 21. Celina, was placed on probation for a two-year period by Judge Paul P. Dull in Mercer Co Common Pleas court Friday after Newland entered a plea of guilty to an indictment charging forgery. He was indicted by the September grand jury for endorsing a forged check in the amount of $42.85 and cashing it at the Barr Co., Celina. One of the conditions of the probation is that within six months he repay the amount of the check. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News 10 Mar 1946, Lima, Ohio

Also in Celina. a $50,000 fireproof two-story addition to the Barr Co., five-and-ten cent store, is in the drawing board stage. Strong said the building will be erected on a lot adjarent to the present store. An old, wood-constructed store building now on the lot will be removed to make room for the addition.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives November 21, 1971 Page 13

KENTON The Barr Co 15 N Detroit St

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fort Wayne Journal Gazette Newspaper Archives December 28, 1915 Page 13

NEW FIVE AND TEN CENT STORE FIRM ORGANIZED

BLUFFTON, Ind., Dec. 27 .- Announcement was made here today of a partnership formed hetween W. R. Barr, of this city. Fred Barr, of Celina. O., and James Lepper, of St. Mary's, O., in which the three gentlemen will own and onerate four five-and-ten-cent stores. Messrs. Lepper and Fred Barr already own stores at their respective towns and the new firm plans to place three stores under the management nf Mr. Barr, while Mr. Lepper will go to Kentucky to open two new stores in good-sized towns in that state. The first Kentucky store will be opened at Owensboro.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- January 19, 1993 Journal Gazette, The (Fort Wayne, IN) Page ?????

By Janice Karlovich Staff Writer

The owners of the W.R. Thomas chain of small-town variety stores have announced plans to close the last seven stores in northeast Indiana, southern Michigan, and northwest Ohio.

In some areas, such as LaGrange, it will mean the end of the town's only general store, where clothes, candy, and thread could be bought in one trip.

The reason?

"Basically, in one word - Wal-Mart," said a spokesman for the 89-year-old, Warsaw-based chain who asked that his name not be used.

Wal-Mart's volume buying, low prices, and recent moves into smaller areas have crowded the Thomas stores out of the market, the spokesman said.

Despite the chain's closing of six stores in the past three years, the company continued to lose money. "We finally said, 'The hell with it,'" the spokesman said. "I can't emphasize the effect of the recession enough."

In Indiana, W.R. Thomas stores are located in LaGrange and North Manchester. In Ohio, Barr Co. stores, which are owned by the Thomas chain, will close in Hicksville and Celina. Thomas stores closing in Ohio include Port Clinton and Oak Harbor.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WARSAW-BASED RETAIL CHAIN PLANS TO CLOSE STORES January 19, 1993 | News-Sentinel, The (Fort Wayne, IN) Author/Byline: FROM STAFF, WIRE REPORTS | Page: 6S | Section: SPORTS

W.R. Thomas will be closing each of its seven variety stores in the region sometime this year. Jay Lamarr, manager of the store in LaGrange, said the Warsaw-based chain would be shuttering each of its stores "as soon as possible." W.H. Thomas operates stores in Indiana in North Manchester and LaGrange. In Ohio, the chain owns stores in Hicksville, Celina, Port Clinton and Oak Harbor. In Michigan, the chain owns a store in Eaton Rapids. The chain, which once had 15 stores, has been hard hit from competition from large discounters such as Wal-Mart. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Banner Newspaper Archives March 11, 1903 Page 5

James Lepper has resigned his position in Ossian and will leave March 16 for Wisconsin where be will take up the duties of a traveling salesman. At present he is spending a few days with his parents and friends in this neighborbood. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bluffton Banner Newspaper Archives July 15, 1903 Page 4

James Lepper, who has been working as a traveling salesman in Wisconsin, Iowa and other western states for several months, came home this week to remain indefinitely. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 10 Jul 1965, Sat ·Page 8

Ronald Bumgardner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Bumgardner, Greenville, has been named manager of the new Barr Co.store in Hicksville, O. Bumgardner had previously been assistant manager at Kenton. The Barr Co., headquartered in Celina, recently purchased the E. Mentzer & Son 5c and 10c store at Hicksville. The company also operates five other stores in Ohio and Indiana, including one in Greenville. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ancestory.com listing:

Alice May Barr 1884 - August 28, 1924 Spouse James Henry Lepper Mother Celestia "Lettie" Bennett FatherRobert Barr Born Indiana Died Otsego, Allegan, Michigan Residence Harrison, Wells, Indiana, USA Hide all residences Owensboro Ward 1, Daviess, Kentucky, USA Elwood Ward 1, Madison, Indiana, USA Michigan, United States Bluffton, Indiana W South Street, Harrison, Wells, Indiana, USA Seventh Street, Owensboro Ward 1, Daviess, Kentucky, USA

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Otsego Union Date: September 04, 1924 Page: 1 Search Match: N/A (click for content) Tags:

MRS. J. H. LEPPER. The. people of Otsego were cast into general mourning last Thurs- day night, when it was announeed that Mrs. J. H. Lepper, who had been ill but a short time, had pass ed away.at her home in this city. Mrs. Lepper had greatly endeared- herself to the people of this com- munity during her short residence here. Alice Barr Lepper, daughter of Robert and Lethy Barr, was born in Bluffton, Ind., May 27, 1883, and departed this life August 28, 1924, after a brief but painful illness. She was a graduate of Bluffton school and taught several years be- fore her marriage to James H. Lepper, June 21, 1910. To this un- ion two children were born, one daughter, Margaret, and one son, Robert. She was a woman of high Christian character, having become a Christian in early life, and being of that unselfish disposition, was always willing to do for others, even at a great sacrifice to her- self. Coming to Otsego about two years ago, with her family, united with the First Baptist church here.

She was always ready to do her part, and taking her place as jun- ior superintendent of the Sunday school did much to advance that department and endeared herself to all the children. She was aiso president of the Mission circle and did considerable for mission work. She was elected president of the Literary club at its annual meet- ing last May. As in all other work so in this she gave her best, and will be greatiy missed by its mem- bers. She was also very active in the Parent-Teacher association and took much interest in the schools. Besides her husband and two children, she leaves a father and two brothers, William R. Barr, of Bluffton, Ind., and H. Barr of Salina, Ohio, and a host of friends. Short funeral services were held at the home last Friday at two o'clock by Rev. J. N. Jenkins. Two very appropriate solos were ren- dered by Miss Mina Stowe. The remains were taken to Bluffton for burial.

Page 3 CARD OF THANKS. We wish to thank all those who helped during the sickness and death of our wife and mother. James H. Lepper and Children.

The two children of J. H. Lepper are with Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Barr in Bluffton, Ind., where they have entered school and will make their home. Mrs. Barr is is a sister of their mother.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County, Mich., Thursday Aftemoan, August 28, 1924. Mrs. J. H. Lepper, who has been so critically ill. is very low this morning. Her father and brothers are here.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County, Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, May 17, 1928

Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Lepper have moved from Bangor to Marckle, Ind. Mr. Lepper has a position of traveling salesman.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County, Mich., Thorsday Afternoon, May 10, 1928. J. H. Lepper has moved from Bangor to Bluffton, Ind.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Michigan, Thunday Afternoon, April 20th, 1922 The store now occupied by the New York Racket store has been rented by Paul Murray to J. H. Lepper of Bluffton, Ind., who will conduct a variety store, with no article selling for more than $1.00 He comes well recommended as a business man and citizen.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Michigan, Thunday Afternoon, June 1, 1922

J. H. Lepper, who has leased the store now occupied by Jas. A. Collins has moved his family from Greenville, O., and taken possession of tiie Georgia Tubbs cottage at Pine lake for the summer. He has a wife and two children, a boy and girl. Mr. Lepper will conduct a variety store, specializing in five and 10 cent goods. He is a pleasing man to meet, and we wish him success. He will soon begin the work of ^making the shelving for his store ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 22, 1922.

OPENING ANNOUNCED. James H Lepper has a force of men at work shelving and re-deco- reting the store just vacated by J. A. Collins, which he will open. Saturday, July 1, with a choice stock of variety goods. The store will be a handsome one. Mr. Lepper has had considerable experience in this line of merchandising and he knows just how to get the best ef- fects from interior arrangement and decoration .. He announces his open- ing in this issue for Saturday, July 1, and also advertises for ten high school girls to assist on the opening day. See him Saturday of this week at the store, between 3 and 5 p. m.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Classified Ad in The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 22, 1922. HELP WANTED—FEMALE. WANTED—At New Variety store. ^ 10 salesladies, experience unnecessary. Meet me Saturday, June 24 at store, between 3 p. m. and 5 p m. Jas H. Lepper

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ad from The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 22, 1922. Grand Opening of Otsego's New Variety Store

Featuring 5¢ and 10¢ Departments, Located in the Murray Building, Recently Occupied by N.Y. Racket Store.

Opening to the Public: Saturday, July 1 at 10 A.M.

Big Specials All Day! Let's Get Acquainted!

Watch Next Thursday's Paper for Opening Adv.

CANDY | PEANUTS | CANDY

We are Proud of Our Basement. VISIT IT.

CANDY | PEANUTS | CANDY

Jas. H. Lepper

CANDY | PEANUTS | CANDY

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 29, 1922. J. H. Lepper advertises the opening of his variety store at ten o'clock Saturday morning. The store is now in splendid condition has a deep red front in keeping with that class of stores in the large cities, rfnd the large, new stock is being arranged for the opening day. Mr. Lepper invites everyone to call and make an eaily acquaintance, see the store and the stock.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 29, 1922.

J. H. Lepper, proprietor of the new variety store, advertised in last week's Union for ten girls. He got fourteen. It pays to advertise in The Union Classified Columns

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, June 29, 1922.

OTSEGO'S NEW VARIETY STORE

Featuring 5 Cent and 10 Cent Articles, located in the Murray Building, recently vacated by the New York Racket Store, will open its doors to the public SATURDAY, JULY 1.

Of course, you want to see Your Store. We have re-painted, re-shelved, and stocked the same with a complete line of merchandise, "ALL NEW STOCK."

We will have for Opening Sale:

10:00 A.M. Aluminum Sale

Consisting of the following items: Covered Kettles, Sauce Pans, Dish Pans, Preserving Kettles, 3-in-one Combination Cooker, Water Pails, Roasters (note size), Percolators, and Tea Kettles, each 89c.

One of each item to a customer if you wish.

2:00 P.M. Broom Sale!

Plain handle, slick and wire finish; sound corn; fair color. See these for a light house broom. 24c Each.

One to a customer.

SEE WINDOWS - KEEP THIS AD. Bring It in.

4:00 P.M. Soap Sale

KIRK'S WHITE FLAKE SOAP —or— P.&G. SOAP (All of one kind or assorted.)

6 Bars 24c

12 Bar Limit.

8:00 P.M. HERE'S A BUSTER:

B Size GALVANIZED TUBS

Good for a hundred purposes. 39c Each

We have pinned our faith, also capital, to Otsego. We cordially invite ALL people in Otsego and surrounding territory to visit us Saturday, inspect our store, our methods of doing business.

LET'S GET ACQUAINTED NOW!

J. H. Lepper

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Otsego Union, Otsego, Allegan County Michigan, Thursday Afternoon, July 6, 1922.

J. H. Lepper was more than pleased with the response of Otsego people to the opening of his new variety store Saturday. He did a rushing business all day and disposed of all his specials, besides large quantities of other merchaniise. The advertising of the event was done exclusively in The Union. The practice of shooting skyrockets on the business streets should not be allowed. Someone shot a rocket through a plate glass window in the Murray building occupied by J. H. Lepper's Variety store on the eve of the Fourth. Lives and property are endangered by such actions, done of course in he spirit of fun, but none the less dangerous.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61113404/james-h.-lepper

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Call-Leader 24 Aug 1912, Sat ·Page 1

Mr. and Mrs. Dan Brenner left this afternoon for St. Mary's, O., for a short visit with Mr. and Mrs. James Lepper, formerly of Elwood. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Van Wert Daily Bulletin Newspaper Archives January 17, 1916 Page 3

The Barr-Lepper store of St. Marys, is being moved to Owensboro, Kentucky, accompained by its manager, James Lepper and family. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Call-Leader 28 Feb 1912, Wed ·Page 8

Word was received today by James Leper from St. Mary's O., telling of the rapid work being done on the large building in which he will locate his five and ten cent notion store. The building will be completed the last of May and with the commencement of June the store will be opened. The prospects for a good business looks very bright to Mr. Lepper and his many friends here feel sure that he will make the same success of his own business as he did while managing the Morris Company's store here. He will retain his present position with the Charles F. Wiley Company until later in the spring. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fort Wayne Daily News 15 Mar 1912, Fri ·Page 10

Ossian - James Lepper, of St. Mary's, O., is visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Will Lepper and other friends in this place this week. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT REPORTS

of the

STATE OF OHIO

Containing the

DECISIONS OPINIONS-RULINGS OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, ATTORNEY GENERAL, INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION, STATE BANKING DEPARTMENT, TAX COMMISSION, BUREAU OF INSPECTION AND SU- PERVISION OF PUBLIC OFFICES, INSURANCE DE- PARTMENT, STATE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT, Etc.

VOLUME XXVI

COLUMBUS DEPARTMENT REPORTS PUBLISHING CO. 1927 - 1928

SECRETARY OF STATE New Incorporations CELINA The Barr Company, 500 shares no par and $50,000 pf., William R. Barr, Margaret W. Barr, Fred H. Barr, Mae E. Barr. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Poor's Manual of Public Utilities; Street, Railway, Gas, Electric, Water, Power, Telephone and Telegraph Companies 1915

MARION AND BLUFFTON TRACTION CO. - Bluffton to Marion, Ind., 31.84 miles (gauge 4 ft. 812 in.); Sidings, 1.94 miles. Rail 70 lbs. History - Chartered June 1, 1914, in Indiana for fifty years, as a re-organization of the Marion, Bluffton and Eastern Traction Co. Company began operations July 1, 1914. Road first opened for business Dec. 15, 1906. Power purchased from the Marion Light and Heating Co., at Marion, Ind. Equipment, Dec. 31, 1914. Cars - Passenger (closed, 5, open, 2) 7; freight, 1; work, 1; snow plows, 1; miscellaneous, 2-total, 12, of which 9 are electrically equipped. Overhead system. Sub-stations, 2. Income Account, year ended June 30, 1914 (Marion, Bluffton and Eastern Traction Co.) - Earnings - Passenger, $88,430; freight, $13,415; other, $10,037-total, $111,882. Operating expenses-maintenance of way and structures, $11,992; maintenance of equipment, $4,553; traffic expenses, $1,101; transportation expenses, 839,057; general expenses, $7,234-total, $63,937. Net earnings, $47,945. Deductions: Taxes, $4,580; interest on bonds, $3,600; accident claims, etc., $31,449-total deductions, $39,679. Surplus, 88,266. General Balance Sheet, Dec. 31, 1914 - Cap. stock, $216,000; funded debt, $504,000; sinking fund reserve, $2,520; accident reserve, $1,260; accrued liabilities, $752; current liabilities, $6,007; profit and loss, $1,996-total, $732,535. Contra: Property account, $719,866; inventories, $6,093; accounts receivable, 83,272; cash, $386; unadjusted debts, $2,917-total, $732,535. Capital Stock - Authorized and outstanding December 31, 1914, $216,000. Shares, $100. Annual meeting third Tuesday in June, at Bluffton, Ind. Funded Debt - $504,000 1st mtge. 30-year gold 5s dated July 1, 1914, due July 31, 1934, interest Jan. and July at office of the trustee, Fletcher Savings and Trust Co., Indianapolis, Ind. Coupon bonds, $1,000. Sinking fund provides for 1 p. c. to be used in retiring bonds, payable 12 p. c. each Jan. and July 1. Secured on line from Bluffton to Marion, Ind., 31.84 miles. Directors - James W. Sale, Abram Simons, H. C. Arnold, W. R. Barr, D. Locke, W. A. Kunkel, L. C. Davenport, A. B. Cline, J. C. Gilliland, Samuel Bender, David Myers, D. A. Walmer, Bluffton, Ind.; Hugh Dougherty, Indianapolis, Ind.; J. W. Wilson, Marion, Ind.; G. M. Hufman, Ft. Wayne, Ind.; T. C. McReynolds, Kokomo, Ind.; J. H. Edwards, Lepsic, Ohio. Officers - James W. Sale, Pres.; Abram Simmons, Vice-Pres.; W. A. Patton, Sec., Gen. Mgr., and Pur. Agt.; D. Locke, Treas.; J. S. Clark, Aud., Bluffton, Ind. General Office, 11112 No. Main St., Bluffton, Ind.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Standard History of Adams and Wells Counties, Indiana: An Authentic Narrative of the Past, with an Extended Survey of Modern Developments in the Progress of Town and Country Front Cover John Wilson Tyndall Unigraphic, Incorporated, 1918 - Adams County (Ind.)

WILLIAM S. SMITH is a native of Bluffton, a son of former Senator J. H. C. Smith of Wells County, and has been steadily making his mark in business affairs for the past thirty years. He is now proprietor of the McFarren Clothing Company of Bluffton, in addition to various other interests.

Mr. Smith was born at Bluffton on January 31, 1868. His mother, Arlie L. (Wisner) Smith, was a native of Wells County, and his father, J. H. C. Smith, was born in Rock Creek Township of this county on August 9, 1842. He has long been one of the prominent members of the Wells County bar. He represented Huntington and Wells counties in the State Senate for four years during the latter '80s. Senator and Mrs. Smith have two sons living, William S. and Merl W., the latter of Hartford City, Indiana.

William S. Smith was reared in Bluffton, educated in the common schools, and is a graduate of the rather noted class of 1886 from the high school. That class contained thirty-four members, nineteen girls and fifteen boys, and all are still living except Frank Cummings. After graduating from high school, Mr. Smith went to work in the local drug stores, was there for one year, was with J. H. Heintz for two years, and then entered the Root & Company store, the leading dry goods house of northern Indiana, at Fort Wayne. He was with them for four years, and returning to Bluffton entered the employ of Mr. G. F. McFarren. He learned all the details of the business and somewhat later he bought out the Tribolet Clothing and Men's Furnishing Store and, associated with W. R. Barr, they conducted this establishment for five years. It was then sold to the S. Bender Dry Goods Company. For a time Mr. Smith was with the Leader Company and then returned to G. F. McFarren and is now proprietor of the clothing department of that handsome and widely known mercantile house of Bluffton. Mr. Smith also owns stock in the Wells County Bank and is a stockholder in the Abbott Corporation Company, automobile manufacturers of Cleveland.

On June 13, 1893, he married Miss Winnie McFarren, who graduated from the same high school class as her husband. They have three sons: George H. Smith, who graduated from the Bluffton High School in 1912 and from the electrical engineering course from Purdue University with the class of 1916. He is now connected with the National Division of the General Electric Company of Cleveland. The second son, Wendell S. Smith, is a graduate of the Bluffton High School, while the youngest, Hubert, is still a high school student. The family are members of the Baptist Church, in which Mr. Smith is a deacon. He is a Knight Templar and thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason and Shriner, and in politics is a democrat.

WILLIAM R. BARR. Bluffton has been a center of trade and business for over three quarters of a century, and among those connected with the business, civic, social, and religious life of the community, William R. Barr is prominently numbered. The Leader Company, of which he is vice president and manager, is now and for some years past has been supplying a large part of the reliable merchandise distributed not only in Bluffton but throughout Wells County. That, however, is only one of Mr. Barr's active interests in the city.

By nativity, he belongs to the city of Fort Wayne, where he was born on April 27, 1874, a son of Robert and Lettie (Bennett) Barr. His mother was a daughter of Robert C. and Harriet (Deam) Bennett. Robert Barr, the father, was born in 1848, at Paisley, Scotland, where the famous shawls come from. When a small child, he accompanied his mother to America, the first location being at Halifax and later moving to Rochester, New York, where Robert was reared and where he had a common school education. He learned his trade in machine shops in Rochester and from there came to Fort Wayne, Indiana, working in the Pennsylvania Railway shops and in 1880 came to Bluffton, where he entered the service of George W. Grimes in the latter's foundry and machine shop on the south side of Washington Street near the railroad. He was connected with that industry until the latter part of 1915 and was active in building up the industry as a manufactory of boilers, engines, mill machinery, architectural ironwork, and other products. He was a member of Bluffton Lodge No. 114, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which he served as noble grand, and in politics was a republican and filled the office of councilman for one term. He is now living with his son William R. Barr. There were four children in the family, and the three now living are: William R., Fred H., who is manager of a chain of 5 and 10-cent stores in which his brother William is also interested, his home being at Celina, Ohio; and Alice, a graduate of the Bluffton High School and the wife of James H. Lepper, who lives in Owensboro, Kentucky, where he is now active in the 5 and 10-cent business.

William R. Barr was six years of age when the family moved to Bluffton. Here he attended the public and high schools. At the age of seventeen, he went to Rochester, New York, spending a year and a half employed with a party of civil engineers and at the same time continued his education by attending night school. Returning to Bluffton, Mr. Barr entered the service of G. F. McFarren, one of the oldest and best-known merchants of Bluffton. He was with him until 1898, then, with William S. Smith, he bought the John W. Tribolet clothing store. At the end of five years, Mr. Barr bought the interests of Mr. Smith, and then merged the store with the firm of Bender, Walmer & Barr. Five years later, Mr. Walmer retired, turning over his interest to the other two partners.

The Leader Company was incorporated in 1908. Its present officers are: Samuel Bender, president; William R. Barr, vice president; Herbert H. Bender, secretary, and treasurer, and the board of directors are Samuel Bender, Mr. Barr, and Herbert H. Bender.

Mr. Barr is also one of the directors of the W. B. Brown Company and is a member of the executive committee and director of the M. & R. Traction Company. He is also one of the directors of the Elm Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Barr is a York and Scottish Rite Mason, past master of his Masonic lodge and past eminent commander of the Knights Templar and also belongs to the Mystic Shrine. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and in politics is a republican.

Mr. Barr married Margaret Walling, of one of the old and well-known families of Muncie, Indiana. She is a graduate of the Muncie High School. Her parents were Mark and Mary E. (Gilbert) Walling.

Mr. and Mrs. Barr have an adopted daughter, Lois Barr, born on August 17, 1904. Mrs. Barr was well educated in literature and music, and for several years taught music in the Bluffton public schools and has had active charge of the music of the Baptist Church for a number of years. Both are active members of this church, and Mr. Barr is a teacher of a class enrolling about 250 members in the Sunday school.

EDWIN S. WALMER. The men who succeed in any enterprise in life, the generals who win their spurs on the field of battle, the financiers who amass wealth—are the men who have confidence in themselves and the courage of their convictions. There is a time in every man's life when he reaches the conclusion that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide and that though the world is full of good, no good thing comes to him without self-reliance and the power to gain results. The man who trusts himself and who plans well his part on the stage of life is a success. A strong and sterling character is like an acrostic—read it forward or backward or across—it still spells the same thing. The business career of Edwin S. Walmer, one of the foremost dry-goods merchants of Bluffton, is an ample illustration of what persistence and determination, coupled with ambition and the ability to work, can accomplish.

A native of the City of Bluffton, Edwin S. Walmer was born on November 5, 1868, and he is a son of Henry S. and Catherine (Krill) Walmer, both natives of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The father was a shoemaker by trade and he came to Wells County, Indiana, about 1848, entering the employ of Matthew Winters as foreman in his shoe shop. Subsequently, he purchased this shop, employing as many as six operators, and later he owned a shop on East Market Street. On April 1, 1880, he disposed of his shoe shop and located on a farm, part of which is now within the corporate limits of Bluffton. He continued to live on the farm and devoted his attention to diversified agriculture until his demise on June 6, 1900. He was a republican in politics and while he did not participate actively in local affairs, still he manifested a deep and sincere interest in all matters projected for the good of the general welfare. Mrs. Walmer was summoned to the life eternal in 1901. She and her husband were the parents of ten children, eight of whom are living, in 1917, as follows: Amanda is the wife of W. T. Shaffer, of Muncie, Indiana; Catherine is the wife of D. M. Karns, of Bluffton; Jennie married H. E. Rowley, of Anderson, Indiana; D. A. Walmer resides in Bluffton; Ella is the wife of G. T. Hartley, of Muncie; Clara is the wife of H. L. Troutman, of Indianapolis, Indiana; William H. is a farmer in Harrison Township, Wells County; Edwin S.; Barbara was the wife of A. J. Triholet at the time of her death in 1914; and Sarah died at the age of ten years.

Edwin S. Walmer was a lad of eleven years of age when his parents located on the farm. He attended the public schools of the locality and at the age of thirteen years entered the Bluffton High School, in which he was graduated as a member of the class of 1886. This class consisted of thirty-four pupils, the largest graduating class until 1910. On August 1, 1886, he accepted a position with D. A. Walmer & Company of Montpelier, Indiana, at $6 per week. Out of his salary, he saved $50 during the first year. He remained with that firm for four years, at the end of which he engaged in the livery business, selling out his share in that enterprise to his partner at the end of six months. Returning to Bluffton, he obtained a position with the Leader store and remained in the employ of that concern for sixteen years, during ten of which he was salesman and manager. He then entered into a partnership alliance with S. Bender, under the firm name of Bender & Walmer, dry-goods merchants, and a short time afterward this concern took over the clothing firm of Smith & Barr, and the name was changed to Bender, Walmer & Barr. This company was continued for five years but on August 27, 1907, Mr. Walmer disposed of his interest to Bender & Barr for the tidy sum of $26,000. On March 5, 1908, he purchased a two-thirds interest in the People's Store (E. S. Walmer & Company), his partner in this enterprise being J. R. Bishop. In 1913, a third partner, W. C. McBride, was admitted and the store was run under this triple alliance, as it were, until August 1916, when Mr. McBride retired, and in the following month, Mr. Walmer also took over the share owned by Mr. Bishop. The People's Store is one of the largest and finest concerns of its kind in Wells County and has a very extensive patronage. Mr. Walmer was interested in the Bluffton Steam Laundry and ran the same for two years. He also has extensive real estate interests in Bluffton and he is a stockholder in the Studebaker Bank and in the Union Savings & Trust Company, in the latter of which he is a member of the board of directors.

On July 13, 1892, Mr. Walmer married Miss Isca Wentz, a daughter of W. H. and Owega (White) Wentz. Mrs. Walmer was born in Montpelier, Indiana, on September 23, 1870, and she was educated in the Bluffton public and high schools. One son has been born to this union, namely, Hillard W., whose date of nativity is August 30, 1897. He was graduated from the Bluffton High School and for a year and a half was a student at Indiana State University. He then entered Marion Institute, at Marion, Alabama, and after four months there, passed the examination and is now midshipman of the United States Army at the Annapolis Naval Academy.

Mr. Walmer is a valued and appreciative member of Bluffton Lodge No. 796. Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and in politics, he is a stalwart republican. Mr. Walmer is a man of fine mentality and broad human sympathy. He thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always courteous, kindly, and affable and those who know him personally accord him the highest esteem. His life has been exemplary in all respects and he supports those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while his own high moral worth is deserving of the highest commendation.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives December 28, 1945 Page 6

• • CELINA'S POOL SPONSORS UNITE**

• • Corporation Formed For Project Headed By Mersman**

Celina, Dec. 28 - Celina Swimming Pool, Inc., a non-profit corporation established to build, operate, and maintain a swimming pool, now has officers, trustees, and a bank account of $12,000 which expects to grow to between $45,000 and $50,000, Frank Ziegler, secretary of the new organization, announced Friday. Walter J. Mersman is president of the enterprise.

H. J. Knapke incorporated the swimming pool project following objections to the original proposal that the village council construct the pool. Since considerable time may elapse before the pool is built, councilmen pointed out that they could not speak for their successors.

Council will build a playground at the fairgrounds because work can begin immediately in the spring.

Tentative plans call for the erection of a 70 by 135-foot concrete pool, complete with dressing rooms and water purification plant, at North Shore Park at the foot of Main Street. Subject to the approval of council, the lakeside park offers enough room for the pool and provides parking space. In addition, warm water from the municipal light plant will temper cold water drawn from the lake in early spring and late fall.

Incorporators of the pool were Mayor H. A. Herman, Rudy Miller, and Frank Ziegler, who named the officers. The officers and incorporators then chose the trustees. Officers of the corporation, in addition to Mersman, are Lee Heckler, vice president; Frank Ziegler, secretary. The tentative list of trustees, who will serve until an election can be held, are Fred Barr, N. C. Bowman, E. J. Brookhart, H. F. Krimendahl, Noah Hinton, Frank Sommers, Dillon Smalley, Rudy Miller, and Ferd Winkeijohn.

Ziegler said the corporation was now making final solicitations for 1945 and would continue to receive money in 1946. An architect will be hired to draft plans for the pool. Its erection date will then depend on availability of labor and materials. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives July 15, 1928 Page 4

• • CELINA BOOSTER CLUB HAS TOUR**

• • Trip Into Indiana and Ohio Cities Spreads Good Fellowship**

Celina, Ohio, July 14 - (Special) - The one-day tour on which the Celina boosters Friday visited 12 Ohio and Indiana cities proved an efficient method for spreading publicity and accumulating goodwill for Celina, especially Grand Lake and the parks.

The event was arranged by H. W. Schindler, B. E. Haley, R. R. Wyckoff, and Fred Barr. The initial stop was at Rockford. The delegation then proceeded to Ohio City, Van Wert, and Decatur, Indiana. The Celina band gave concerts at each city. At Decatur, the party was served ice cream at the Cloverleaf creamery.

The next stop was at Bluffton where the delegation was welcomed by an official committee, headed by the Mayor.

At Montpelier, a stop was made long enough to give a concert and the train then moved on to Marion where dinner was served at the Spencer Hotel. City officials showed the visitors the points of interest in the community. The boosters next visited Alexandria, Anderson, Chesterfield, Muncie, and Portland. From Portland, the party returned to Celina. A friendly attitude was shown by the officials and citizens of all cities visited.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives February 10, 1939 Page 6

MEMBER DRIVE IS COMPLETED BY CELINA CLUB

(Special To The Lima News)

CELINA, Feb. 10 - The annual membership drive of the Celina Commercial Club was completed here Friday morning, and the club is now in a position to complete its program for the year.

The following committees have been named by the board of directors and were announced today by Hugo Rentzsch, president:

E. J. Hierholzer was named chairman of the budget committee, which includes Homer Hale and Emmet R. Ashton. William Kopp, chairman of the lake welfare committee, along with William Spieler, Paul Hinkle, Dr. Orlan Geroux, B. A. Myers, and Carl Brandts. William Brown, chairman of the float committee. Pre Gilberg, chairman of the lake pamphlet committee, which includes C. A. Stubbs, B. A. Myers, Fred Barr, Joe Chodash, Homer Hale, and William Kopp. A. W. Marion, chairman of the 4-H camp committee, which includes Frank Wilson, Hugo Rentzsch, and Dale Jamieson. Parker Snyder, chairman of the publicity committee, along with Leo Dwyer, Gerald Maus, and Fred Gilberg. Henry Knapke, chairman of the ordinance committee, Paul Dull, Floyd Houts, Hugo Rentzsch, and C. A. Stubbs. Lawrence, chairman of the industrial committee, which includes Lee Heckler, Rudy Miller, August Spieler, and Bert Bruns.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives March 18, 1958 Page 9

• • Burglars Hit Law Offices**

• • CELINA** - Offices of three Celina law firms, including those of the city solicitor and the county prosecutor, were burglarized over the weekend with more than $450 stolen.

Police Chief John Wiley, whose department is probing the break-ins late Saturday night or early Sunday morning, said $400 was taken from an unlocked safe in the office of Homer and John Hinders, a father-and-son firm in the Younger Building.

Prosecuting Attorney Dean James reported a small amount of cash was taken from a desk drawer at his office in the Fred Barr Building, about a half-block away from the Hinders and Hinders firm.

At the office of Henry J. Knapke, city solicitor, approximately $50 was stolen from a desk drawer. His office also is in the Younger Building.

Doors to all three offices were jimmied open with some type of wrecking bar, Chief Wiley said. The burglaries were discovered Sunday afternoon.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives September 28, 1954 Page 2

[photo of Fred Barr] RITES TOMORROW Last rites for Fred Barr, 75, Celina variety store operator for 40 years, will be held at 1:30 p. m. tomorrow in the Vale Funera! Home with Dr. Don Mueller officiating. Buria! will be made in North Grove Cemetery. Mr. Barr died Mon- day at his home. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8344745/kennith-e-werts

Kenneth E. Werts, age 54, who resided here for the last two years with his sister, Mrs. August M. WIESER, at her home in West Spring street died at 7o'clock Sunday morning (7-6-1952) at St. Rita's hospital, Lima. He had been ill three weeks with a heart ailment. Mr. Werts was born in St. Marys on Sept. 15, 1897, the son of the late Peter and Mary Jamison Werts. In 1936 he married Mary Hapner who died a few years later. Surviving him are two brothers, Shirley, of Russell's Point and Rolla Werts of St. Marys and one sister, Mrs. Wieser. A brother. W. L. Werts died two months ago in Muncie, Ind. There are two nieces and one nephew, Mrs. Ferd HELMSTETTER, Jr. St. Marys, Mrs. O.G. Myers., Ft. Wayne, Ind., and Lt. Commander Charles Werts, Norfolk , Va. He was a World War II veteran having served as a radar man in the Air Force. He trained at Sioux Falls, S. Dakota. He was a member of the Moose lodge, the American Legion and the Methodist church. Mr. Werts was employed for some years as a 5 and 10 cent store a manager by the Barr Company formerly Barr and Lepper. Later he had his own dime store in Gas City, Ind. Since leaving the merchantile business he was employed in production control by Goodyear. St. Marys. Funeral services...at the Yoder and Son Funeral Home..burial in Elm Grove cemetery.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ad for Barr's Variety Store in Coldwater Michigan yearbook, 1974. https://www.branchdistrictlibrary.org/archive/items/show/7276 ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Business ID: 800997443 Old Business ID: 612604 Business Name: BARR COMPANY OF OHIO, INC. Business Type: FOREIGN PROFIT CORPORATION Date of Formation: Aug 26, 1971 Status: Withdrawn Date of Dissolved: Sep 04, 1979 State: Michigan Jurisdiction: Ohio Term: Perpetual Most Recent Annual Report: 1978 Apportionment: 0% Registered Agent Name: CARL M. HORN Registered Office Address: 9 W. CHICAGO ST. COLDWATER MI 49036 Total Authorized Shares: 1,500 Updated On: 2021-10-21

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mamie (Nash) Barr August 14, 1890 – August 30, 1973

Photo by Thomas Liby

  Mrs. Mamie N. Barr, 83, of 606 West Market Street, a patient at Meadowvale Care Center, died Thursday. She was born August 14, 1890 in Lancaster Township, a daughter of William J. and Easter Norton Nash. She married William R. Barr in 1938. He preceded her in death in 1954.
  A lifelong resident of Wells County, she was a member of the First Baptist Church.
  She is survived by a sister, Mrs. Frank Rothe of Fort Wayne.
  Funeral services will be Sunday at Thoma-Rich Funeral Home, Rev. Harlan Steffen will officiate; burial in Elm Grove Cemetery.

Bluffton News-Banner, Wells County, Indiana August 30, 1973

Indiana, Death Certificates, 1899-2011

Name: Mamie N Barr [Mamie N Nash] Gender: Female Race: White Age: 83 Marital status: Widowed Birth Date: 14 Aug 1890 Birth Place: Indiana Death Date: 30 Aug 1973 Death Place: Bluffton, Wells, Indiana , USA Father: William J Nash Mother: Easter Norton Informant: Mrs. Frank Rothe; sister; Fort Wayne, Indiana Burial: September 2, 1973; Elm Grove Cemetery; Bluffton, Indiana

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mrs Robert Barr in the Indiana, Death Certificates, 1899-2011

Name: Mrs Robert Barr [Mrs Robert Bennett] Gender: Female Race: White Age: 55 Marital status: Married Birth Date: 6 Sep 1851 Birth Place: Bluffton Death Date: 18 Jul 1907 Death Place: Bluffton, Wells, Indiana, USA Father: Robert Bennett Mother: Harriett Spouse: Robert Barr Informant: Will Barr; Bluffton, Indiana Burial: July 20, 1907; Elm Grove Cemetery

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert M Neer BIRTH 28 Mar 1906 Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio, USA DEATH 12 Jan 1963 (aged 56) Celina, Mercer County, Ohio, USA BURIAL Oak Dale Cemetery Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio, USA MEMORIAL ID 56225853

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Helen Barr Neer BIRTH 16 Oct 1909 Celina, Mercer County, Ohio, USA DEATH 7 Apr 1975 (aged 65) Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio, USA BURIAL Oak Dale Cemetery Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio, USA

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lima News Newspaper Archives January 13, 1963 Page 4

ROBERT M. NEER CELINA - Robert M. Neer, 56, formerly of Urbana, who had beer residing at 116 S. Mamn. Celina, died at 3 a.m. Saturday of a heart attack at his home. Born March 28, 1906. in Urbana, he is survived by his widow, Helen; two sons, Dr. Robert M. Neer Jr., New York City. and Frederick Neer, Ohio State Uni- versity, Columbus: a daughter. Nancy. at Ohio Wesleyan Univer- s.ty. Delaware; and a grand daughter. He was a member of Harmony Lodge 8 of Urbana. Urbana Chap- ter 34, Urbana Council 59. Raper Commandery 19. Knights Templar of Urbana. Scottish Ritc, Valley of Columbus, Urbana Lions Club. and the Urbina Methodisr Church The bedy was to be taken to Humphreys Funeral Home in Ur- bana Saturday, where arrange- ments are incomplete.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lima Citizen 12 Jan 1963, Sat ·Page 2

Celina, Urbana Businessman Dies At Celina Home

CELINA - Robert M. Neer, 56, Celina and Urbana businessman, died at 3 a.m. today following a heart attack at his home, 116 S. Main St.

Mr. Neer was president of Barr Stores Inc. with outlets in this city and Greenville. He also operated an insurance agency in Urbana.

Mr. Neer also maintained a residence in Urbana where he spent most of his time and was active in fraternal and civic affairs.

He was a member of Harmony Lodge, No. 19, Free and Accepted Masons; Urbana Chapter, No. 34, Royal Arch Mason; Urbana Chapter, No. 59, Royal and Select Masons; Rapier Commandery, No. 19, Urbana; Knights Templar, Urbana, and Scottish Rite, Valley of Columbus.

Mr. Neer was also a member of Urbana Methodist Church and the Lions Club in that city, where he was born March 28, 1906.

Surviving are his widow, the former Helen Barr; two sons, Dr. Robert, New York City, and Frederick, a student at Ohio State University, Columbus; a daughter, Nancy, a student at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, and a granddaughter.

The body is at Vale & Stein Funeral Home and later today will be removed to Humphreys Funeral Home in Urbana. Arrangements are incomplete.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 12 Jan 1963, Sat ·Page 1

President Of Barr Company Is Dead

URBANA - Robert M. Neer, 56, president of the Barr company which operates a variety store in Greenville, died at 4 a.m. today of a heart attack while on a business trip to the company's home office in Celina.

A native of Urbana, he was the husband of Helen Barr Neer and also headed an insurance firm here.

Funeral services are pending at the Humphreys Funeral Home in Urbana.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Daily Advocate 28 Sep 1933, Thu ·Page 1

BARR COMPANY HERE TO MOVE

General Merchandise Store Will Transfer to Rooms Now Occupied by McLellan Five and Ten-Cent Store During Next Two Weeks.

An important business change will be effected in Greenville by October 16, when the Barr Company, a general merchandise store, takes possession of the rooms now occupied by the McLellan Five and Ten-Cent Store, in the Anderson Building, on South Broadway.

Already the Barr Company is making plans to enlarge its stock, and according to Manager Wertz will open in its new location with a complete new line of merchandise.

The McLellan store is to leave Greenville during the coming two weeks.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, February 16th, 1961

Thieves Hit 5 Places On Main Street In Celina

Thieves were busy in Celina over the weekend as the Mercer County Sheriff's Department reported five offices were broken into and ransacked. Nothing of any importance was reported stolen.

The five places entered were:

The Style Shop on Main street. The Barr Company office on Main street. The Davis Beauty Shop, South Main street. Dean James and Walter Bernard office on North Main street. And the Dr. Lester Elchenauer Dental office on South Main. At the Style Shop, it was believed the thieves managed to get away with several shirts and jackets, but in the other places very little was reported missing.

An expert from the State Crime Laboratory examined the offices, and as of press time, the break-ins were still under investigation.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 4 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, October 5th, 1961

SIX TONS of choice chocolates will be available at the big candy sale at the Barr Company in Celina this weekend. Seems like a lot of candy for people who have a sweet tooth.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, July 6th, 1928

CELINA - Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Bailey and daughter moved to Greenville Monday where the former will have charge of a 5 and 10 cent store belonging to Barr & Company. Mr. Bailey has been employed at the Barr store at this place.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 1 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, April 19th, 1940

HOW GREAT IS THE TOURIST TRADE

This week we were brought to a full realization of just how great is the tourist trade at Grand Lake when we learned that each year between 40,000 and 50,000 scenic postcards are sold by the various resorts around the lake and in stores at Celina and St. Marys.

Barr & Company are exclusive distributors in this territory for the company that sells most of the cards. Of course, each of the cards sells for one cent.

The best-selling scene that the tourists send back home shows a large string of crappies. It is presumed that on the other side of the card they write, "Having a wonderful time. Catching lots of fish. Wish you were here."

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 10 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, November 5th, 1926

Several hundred people attended the opening of the Barr & Company store in their new quarters in the Union Block Saturday. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, January 30th, 1931

The Barr & Company's 5 and 10 cent store suffered a considerable loss of merchandise and fixtures Sunday night when flooded by water caused by the bursting of a water pipe in a toilet on the third floor in the Union Block.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 4 of The Coldwater Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Friday, July 22nd, 1932

The Barr Company has inytalled a cooling system in their store.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 9 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, February 9th, 1967

Former Mercer Countian Ernest F. Bailey is a patient in Altman Hospital, Canton. Mr. Bailey suffered a heart attack and will be in the hospital for some time. His address is Altman Hospital, Room 236, Canton, Ohio. Mr. Bailey is well known in this vicinity, being manager for many years of the Barr Company in Celina. He is the brother of Mrs. Sylvester Livingston of Coldwater.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Page 15 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, March 12th, 1998 ---

"Candy ... Candy ... Candy ... "How sweet it is!"

Shirley's Sweets is the place if you have a sweet tooth ... And enjoy the smell and taste of freshly popped popcorn ... And relish the flavor of warm mixed nuts ... And appreciate beautiful Grand Lake photography ... And are in the need of a gift item .... Located at 206 West Market in Celina, Shirley's Sweets can fulfill all of these desires.

Former five-n-dime Barr's Store, which closed in 1993, had offered candy sales and Bell commented, "The past candy sales had been strong, so I decided to try to make a go of a store featuring bulk candy." And, it is still going full force Owner, Shirley Bell, with the candy, popcorn, bulk nuts and gift items.

Bell had been with the former Bell & Horn appliance store, featuring the Country Store. The Country Store, which closed in 1995. started her business three days before Easter, in April of 1995. She purchased the circa-1960 candy counter, complete with an old time balance scale, from the still enjoy choosing their favorite candy, either by the piece or the pound," said Bell. "I enjoy meeting and talking with the customers."

Along with Barr's candy counter came the "Candy Lady," Fern Sealscott. She seems to have had her hand in the candy jar for most of her professional life. Sealscott scooped up the sweet stuff at the former Barr's Store for 37 years, and has continued to do so, by helping Bell.

Customers are in a good mood when they buy candy," Bell said.

On a daily basis, children stop by with their change, dump it on the counter coin by coin, and ask how much they can buy with it.

Adults walk in and buy one or two maple clusters, a quantity that isn't available in other stores. The candy counter seems to take them back to a time when they were a child.

A customer commented, "I can remember when I was a kid, our family would go to Celina to buy shoes, and always had to stop by Barr's. My mother would shop and my father would buy a small bag of warm cashews from the 'Candy Lady.' To this day, I walk in here and it brings back so many memories ... Friendly service and a taste of yesterday."

"The greatest challenge has been offering candies that people want at prices they can afford," Bell replied. "But, the daily joys of operating my own shop still keep me going."

Shirley's Sweets offers more than just delicious taste treats.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 19 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, October 29th, 1970

BARR'S Celina NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 12:30 to 5:30 P. M. for Your Shopping Convenence Friday-Saturday-Monday 9 to 9 Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. 9 to 5.30 SUNDAY 12.30 to 5:30

[Note: based on other ads in 1973, it may just be holidays] ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 25 of The Mercer County Chronicle, published in Coldwater, Ohio on Thursday, December 7th, 1978

December 6 - 4-H Christmas Caroling, in front of Barr's five and ten. All 4-H Clubs are invited - the more the merrier !!

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chronicle Week • November 13-November 19, 1997* 5B

The Candy Lady by IVAN KNAPP

The calendar tells us that the end of another year is just around the corner. For some, this means getting ready for the holidays. For others, it means the beans are off and the corn will be soon. And for others, it means that cold weather will soon be setting in.

For the "snowbirds" among us, it means it is time to fly or drive or walk. Whichever is most convenient, south for the winter. Not to return until April or Easter or Spring, or some combination of the above.

I have always sort of envied those people who take off for Florida just before the winter sets in and then don't return until the weather gets good again. On the other hand, I always figure they miss out on something, too - it’s called winter in Ohio.

I recently met a snowbird that I wanted to tell you about. Within hours of the completion of the interview, she and her husband left for Florida. They were packed and ready as we talked.

Her name is Fern Sealscott. Her occupation, selling candy. Her title, "The Candy Lady." Actually, when I went to interview her, I found out that there are two candy ladies. The other candy lady is her boss and business owner of Shirley’s Sweets, Shirley Bell.

Fern has been selling candy for a long, long time. Before joining Shirley at Shirley's Sweets, kitty-corner across the street from the Courthouse in Celina, Fern worked at Barr's for 30 years where she did a variety of things, one of which was selling candy.

Selling candy for over 30 years, I reckon everybody in town knows you, especially kids and folks who once were kids who loved candy. And what kid doesn't (no matter how old they are).

It's obvious Fern enjoys her work, selling candy. Her positive attitude is as contagious as the candy she sells is sweet. Fern has seen her share of hardships, though. A few years ago, she lost both her first husband, Ralph Alt, and their only child, Jean.

A few weeks ago, Fern married Leo Sealscott from St. Marys. They continue a tradition of going to Florida which Fern began 17 years ago.

Fern began working for Shirley, the other candy lady, when Shirley and her husband Steve, closed Bell and Horn Appliance store. Steve took a job in Greenville working for Schmidt's Appliances. They decided they wanted to keep a business in Celina and settled on the candy business which opened in March 1995.

The two candy ladies make a real team. During the spring, summer, and fall, Shirley is joined in her business by Fern on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Fern says that the favorite candy for the customers are chocolate-covered peanuts and maple clusters. Her favorite? Chocolate-covered marshmallows.

Who buys candy? Everybody buys candy. Shirley's Sweets makes everybody who comes in feel good when they walk out the door with their favorite candy.

Kids like candy. As we finished the interview, Allison and Andy Hamer and Ryan Strable came in to get their favorite kind of candy.

Old people like candy, too. I guess I never thought about that, but I learned from other folks that "once you get old, you don’t worry about it being bad for your health." And besides, during the depression, you didn't have any money for candy.

Now that you don’t have to worry about your health and you have some money, why not buy candy?

Thank God for the Candy Ladies at Shirley's Sweets. They surely are doing their part to sweeten up a lot of people's lives.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 3 of The Ada Herald, published in Ada, Ohio on Wednesday, July 25th, 1990

Barr Co. Interested in Ada

Bob Zynda, real estate research manager for The Barr Company, has recently announced the intention of bringing "an old-fashioned variety dime store" to Ada.

Barr's, currently located on the square in Kenton, will be closed by the middle or end of August, according to Zynda. All fixtures and equipment in the Kenton store will be sold, while the inventory will be transferred to other stores.

"We feel that Ada is one of the most attractive towns that we have looked at in the last two years," Zynda said.

The company is looking for a 5,000 to 6,500 sq ft building in either the downtown area or another area. Accessibility to customers and ample parking will be key considerations.

Zynda says this store will provide families with a general variety of merchandise. Store hours and days open will be decided once the needs of the community are determined, he said.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 13 of The Ada Herald, published in Ada, Ohio on Wednesday, August 8th, 1990

PUBLIC AUCTION As wc are closing our Barr Store in Kenton, Ohio, we will sell at Public Auction the following list of items on: Saturday, August 11,1990 Location: 15 N. Detroit St. Time: 9:00 A.M. _ Kenton, Ohio Over 200' of Gondolas; 1500' of shelving; shelf brackets; peg board and peg hooks; check-out counter; spinner racks; clothing racks; shelf glass; wire fencing; light fixtures; few lots of inventory; large plate glass mirrors, 4'x6\ 3'x4'; large pedestal fan. , * . OWNER: Barr Company; Mike French, Manager Terms: Cash or check with proper I.D. Auctioneer: Bill McNamee, licensed and bonded in favor, of the State of Ohio. Clerks: Nan and Doris

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 21 Oct 1919, Tue ·Page 5

W. R. Barr. of Bluffton, Ind., and Mr. J. H. Lepper left last night for Morgantield. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 19 Sep 1916, Tue ·Page 5

Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Barr, of Bluffton, Ind., who have been guests for the past several days of the family of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Lepper, returned home Monday afternoon.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 12 Jun 1920, Sat ·Page 5

Mr. J. H. Lepper left yesterday for Henderson. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 13 Jun 1920, Sun ·Page 13

J. H. Lepper is in Morganfield. ---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 02 May 1919, Fri ·Page 7

J. H. Lepper arrived yesterday afternoon from Henderson, after spending several days with Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Rowland.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Messenger-Inquirer 15 Jun 1916, Thu ·Page 2

The Leader 5 & 10 Cent Store SAYS CONGRATULATIONS, old boy, you're just married or about to be. $18.02 will buy the following list of home needs. Items marked "X" are the most dangerous. Beware.

6 Plates 1 Salad 2 Meat Platters 1 Dish Pan 1 Cooking Pot 1 Tea Kettle 3 Bread Pans 1 Coffee Pot 1 Pudding Pan 1 Preserving Kettle 1 Mop 1 Broom "X" 6 Soup bowls 1 Cake Turner 1 Slop Jar 3 Tea Towels 6 Cups and Saucers 1 Enam. Water Pail 1 Wash Boiler 1 Wash Board 1 Skillet 1 Set of Irons 1 Clothes Basket 3 Pie Pans 3 Cake Pans 6 Water Glasses 1 Kitchen Lamp 1 Parlor Lamp 1 Pickle Dish 1 Salt and Pepper 30 Yds. Scrim 6 Fruits 6 Pie Plates 1 Potato Masher "X" 1 Clothes Line 6 Curtain Poles 1 Rolling Pin "X" 1 Flour Sifter 1 Wash Pan 3 Pot Lids 1 Dish Pan 2 Tin Cups 40 Clothes Pins 1 Towel Rack 1 Carpet Hammer 1 Fry Pan 6 Table Napkins "OUR SATURDAY SPECIAL" To all purchasers of 25 Cents or over, we give you a house broom for 10 Cents. Bring your want list with you. We both win if you do.

Yours, LEADER 5 & 10 CENT STORES "If we treat your neighbor right, we will you. Ask them."

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Owensboro Messenger 08 Jun 1920, Tue ·Page 8

BOWLING GREEN, COMPANY BUYS OUT THE LEADER

H. A. McElroy and company, of Bowling Green, have purchased the Leader 5 and 10 cent store in Second street, the deal being consummated yesterday. The McElroy company will also add the Morganfield store owned by Mr. Lepper to their chain. This company has 11 other stores in Western Kentucky and Tennessee and have been trying for some time to get a location in Owensboro and Mr. Lepper has been pressed for the purchase. Mr. R. F. Osteen and three assistants representing the McElroy company are in the city invoicing the stock and will take possession at once and will conduct the store on the same basis. The building will be remodeled and thrown open to the public under the new management. The transaction, which has been pending for some days, was made under A. S. Griffin & Co.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Findlay Republican Courier Newspaper Archives August 8, 1947 Page 16

MONEY IS STOLEN AT KENTON STORE Barr Company Management Tells Police $800 Missing From Firm's Safe KENTON, Aug. 7 - Kenton pollce reported Thursday that the management of the Barr compans store here had report- ad 8900 missing from the safe and that it was belleved the monty had been ctolen by some- one femillar with the store. Willtam R. Barr, presidant of the company who li hare from Blunfton, Ind., to manage the stors during the vacation cesson, toid Police Chint C. W. Sheldon the theft was diecovered at 5 p.m. by Mra. Phylis Harvey, cashier. This in belleved to be "an in- side job," police asserted: The money, all in caah except two small checks, wan removed trom the inner part of the safe in the atore sometime between 2:30 and 5 p.m. Wednesday, Barr said. Whoever took tha money had to obtaln a key to the Inner part of the safe from a drawer in another part of the store, lead- ing authoritles to belleve no tranger could bave stolen the money. Employes of the store ware be- ing questioned Thursday by po lica in an attempt to solve the crime.

---NEW SECTION--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Call-Leader Mon, Jan 29, 1912 ·Page 1

Accepted Positlon.

James Lepper, former manager of the Morris Company's store in this city has temporarily accepted a posi- tion as floor manager of the Charles F. Wiley Company. It is the Inten- tion of Mr. Lepper to start into busl- ness for himself in another city at a future date but he has not yet de elded when this will be and has ac- cepted the excellent position with the Wiley company. The new place carries with it a handsome salary.

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

---NEW SECTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE FOLLOWING SECTION IS ONLINE COMMENTS FROM BARR'S CUSTOMERS SHARING THEIR MEMORIES OF BARR’S IN CELINA (PERSONAL ANECDOTES)

Tom Fast I remember!

Linda Moyers Loved that store

Debbie Bergman The memories are flooding back!

Susan Hull Oh what I wouldn't do to spend at least 5 minutes there. What great memories.

Cheryl Braun I think I see the Maple Nut goodies.

Viki Shaffer I took my kids there and they each got to pick a quarter pound of candy! They put each in a little bag for each kid, so special?? loved Easter candy shopping there too

Judy Kay Davis Loved that store and buying candy that way. They always had Easter eggs filled with different fillings and could get names wrote on them.??????

Sandra Kable I remember the warm peanuts. Was really a nice store.

Rita Fullenkamp I can still smell the store.... yum??

Ava Alt Burkheimer My first job!

Doris Goins My grandpa every week would buy a pound of chocolate stars regularly. He would also buy a pound of some other candy. I guess chocolate must be good for you as he lived to his upper 90's.

Tracy Sawmiller I miss Barr's!

EdRonda Schaadt I worked behind that counter for a couple of years while I was in high school. Favorite place for people to come at 8:55 on Saturday night! Working there certainly did not disminish my love of candy!

Christopher Brush Loved the hard candy Dad would get us for Christmas! I spent a lot of hours over the years in the basement toy section.

Jeff Pontsler I used to be Asst. Mgr. - looong time ago! I'd get to drive to Spangler and other candy manufacturers in the box truck and get the candy - They would give me bags of "irregular candy" to eat on the way back...then I'd park in back of Barrs and unload the boxes through the chute in the alley to the basement for storage....great memories!

Betty Caywood Miss this store.

Doris Goins On a Saturday night my father would park outside and eat warm Spanish peanuts while my mother shopped inside. Lots of people on the streets shopping that would stop and visit with him.

Bonnie Beougher Loved going to this store.

Jen Dennis I miss that and the creaky floors

Eloise Hirn Hubble Loved the smell of nuts roasting!

Druann Kuenning Whitaker Love this.??

Darrel Conkel I can remember the smell of that store and the parakeets in the back corner and toys in the basement good times

Teresa Hand Wow what a blast from the past

Linda Harner During sidewalk sales they sold chameleon’s.

Eric Bertke Carrie Temple Blumberg is that you in the picture

Emily Stewart Carrie Temple Blumberg

Vicki Lee Gibson Harris Yep that’s Carrie Temple Blumberg

Deb Huwer I loved this store and it was a real treat to go there! My grandparents used to take me with them,just park in front of the store and “ watch the people” on a Saturday night. Small town living.....

Ronda Shelby Every Saturday and their chocolate peanut cluster yum yum

Lisa Kunk Dawson I can smell it now

Trude Laffin What a wonderful memory!

Judi Bennett Patrick Good times!

Gail Richey To bad they do not have these around any more. Ah the simple life back then

Lynn Boroff I remember it well.????

Tim Heiby Wooden floors toys in basement and candy counter like a dream come true

Chad Sara Etzler Michele Johnson

Sue Linn Smith Worked in the candy department

Helen Uhlenhake Yummy! Even when Mom didn't let us buy candy, the smell was satisfying!

Sandy Stanfield Ava Alt Burkheimer you probably waited on me

Jennifer Henkle I miss these days! And I graduated with the girl behind the counter! Carrie Temple Blumberg

Dorothy Mader Dad parked in front of Barr’s on Saturday night, and we watched the people walk by., that was our entertainment. Before we left he went in a bought sone chocolate.such a great memory

Steve Wurster Top contributor Loved their models and toys.....

Janet Krieg Mom would bring Dad Spanish peanuts & nut goodies. Malted milk balls for us??great memories!

Cathy Sell Smith Miss that store??

Sue Bills We went with our grandma Clune. It was always special to go there with her??

Kris Stein Always went their with my Grandma Mae. Precious memories ??

Sue Kramer Went there a lot growing up. Wish they still had some stores like this

Paula Vanderhorst Omg yes I remember ??????. Em Maggs

Susan R. Buschur Beverly Kuenning show this to Wilma and Ed!

Karen G. Fleming Great memory!

Tami Eblen I loved that store

Carolyn Bates Thank You for sharing!! Wow!! The memories!!

Tessie Collins I still remember the smell of the store!

Mary Sudhoff Long time ago.

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Good photo !!! If we would have known this internet thing was coming, we'd have taken pictures of all those places !!

Molly Eyink Loved to go there and see what they had

Linda Schindler I worked there for almost 12 years.

Kim Masser Oh my goodness, the girls and I spent a lot of time there!

Sylvia Miller ????

Kathy Grisez I loved going there....

Tim Raymond Hot cashews

Norma Wolters Jill Hammer. Did you work there during high school?

Terri Fuson I miss that place. Ed was a great person to work for.

Joe Howell Convoy people enjoyed BUD'S VARIETY STORE ! Especially the candy counter !!!

Cathy Jo Schreima I love that place

Jen Settlemire Karen Teeters

Susie Stoner Oh how I loved that store!! And never have I found a malted candy Easter egg that compares with those they use to sell. Thank you for sharing, Holli!

Jeremy A. Joseph I really enjoyed going here and the toy basement

Jan Belna Loved that store

Ginny Kremer I loved to go in that store at Christmas time with my mom when I was a little girl. She’d always buy a bag of candy or nuts to take home and then we’d eat some on the way home.

Cheryl Weaver I remember it well!

Melissa Pinks Loved going to Barr's used to walk up with my Grandpa Schneider

Donna Gardner I loved going there. I remember mom buying doilies from there. Not sure if people still use them or if they even sell or make them any more.

Erika Hoover Miss that store

Rick Tester So does anyone recognize the faces in this picture? ?? A little bit of reminiscing from an earlier time..??

Barb Heitkamp Sure brings back good memories ??

Steve Wurster Top contributor I can still smell it......mmmmmmm

Lois Geist McNeilan Those were the days!!

Ann Williamson Oh yes! And the toy department in the basement!! ??

Hazel Grant Miss this kind of store ,difinety good old days.

Gary Koesters Loved that place .. Was a treat to go in there when I was a kid and get some candy from the counter..

Marlene Sommer Love this pic of you Carrie Temple Blumberg! When I was a kid we walked to Barr’s to get candy about every day!

Kelly Pummell I loved that store. They had everything.

Loretta Hays Loved that store

Michael Shaffer I look at this picture and I can smell it, just like I could every time you opened their front door. Barr’s was just a neat place, period. Sometimes after school, I’d walk in and just walk the aisles while I waited for my Mom to get off work. I’d always end up downstairs in the toy department. Almost every time I’d go, Mr. Kuenning would come up to me and say “Hey there, Buster!” with a smile on his face while he ruffled up my hair. We’d make a couple seconds of chit chat before he’d go on about his business. He’d always say “Stay as long as you’d like and let me know if there’s anything you need”... never any following you around like a vulture and glaring at you like he thought you were about to run out with 1/2 of the store in your pockets, just a nice, friendly guy. As far as the candy went, the maple peanut clusters were my favorite. They happened to be my Dad’s favorite too, so I never had to beg him to buy a bag whenever we went in. It would be nice if stores were still like that. I miss Main Street USA and I believe our nation would be a much better place if we could get a little of that back.??

Missy Sidenbender Now all we need is a pic of the basement... with all the toys!

Mark Purdy I can practically smell the sugar and the roasted peanuts.

Susan Beth Hellwarth Miller Loved that place! And loved going there with Dad! He loved candy as much as his three kids did so we always went home with lots of goodies.

Irwin Cheryl Bailey Remember the hazelnut cremes that look like moth balls?

James Reed My first stop was to go to the Boy Scout section in the basement and check out pocket knives.

Paula Casad I worked behind the Candy counter in 1973 or 1974. I remember there was a dumbwaiter in the floor where we brought the candy up from the basement to stock the bins. We also got paid in cash in little envelopes. Does anyone else remember the Lawrence Welk type accordion music that always played over the speakers?

Randy Winkeljohn Top contributor Still hear the creaky wooden floor!!!

Wendy Blevins Vanover Loved and miss it

Becky Lawrence Harter I use to love going into Barr’s and being greeted by all the candies! Every Christmas Eve my dad would go there and bring all kinds of chocolates and other kinds of candy home for our Christmas holidays. ??

Pat Lane I worked there in high school in late 50’s. Even did candy at times.

Carol Uhlenhake-Knapke Worked there while in high school. Worked in every department they had. Sure enjoyed working for Ed Kuenning. Such a great boss.

Jerry Bertke We got Our candy there and than Hid it in our shirts for the theater

NorbMartha Kunk Loved it ,could visit there now

Mary Heinrichs Not just the candy, the warm nuts and toys downstairs??

Darl Strable Loved that place

Norma Wolters Easter time always brings memories of the cute colored chicks they sold. Pink Blue green.

Diana Youngs Finkelmeier Friday and Saturday nights in Celina were packed with families. All stores were open till 9. I miss those days!

Jackie Andrews My favorite place as a kid

Joy Warthman I know, me too! We could get a quarters worth of candy & we all 4 d it! ?? oh the good old days! ??

Karl Hagen That store and Rankins, western auto and the clothing stores I miss

Gidget Applegate Amber Shaner

Karl Hagen At the same time I love Walmart and Amazon. Sorry.

Nathan Chapman My girlfriend worked at the candy counter. We've now been married 30 yrs.

Mary Rose Vogt Loved going there. Mom would give us each enough money to pick out our favorite candy. Barb always got butterscotch nut buddies, I got chocolate covered peanuts, I think Gerrie got burnt peanuts.

Randy Winkeljohn Top contributor Painted turtles at Lake Festival.

Valerie Vermillion Where is it located

Mel Main The best place to shop in Celina. Oh how I miss the good days.

Brent Ireland I remember that place

Tasha Rolfes Potts Carrie Temple Blumberg so neat! I am assuming this is you ??

Edited Susie Hasenjager That is awesome! I always went there with my grandma and ordering some politically inappropriate name for candy. Nowadays I would call them chocolate covered creams LOL

Tracey Gillis Mueller This was the best!!

Jean Stachler Oh yes, we all remember Barr`s 5 an dime store...and remember the toys in the basement and the lamps on the upper balcony....such a neat store!

Karl Hagen You could get a parakeet too

Ann Farrell I worked in the store in high school.

Christine Tobin They had the best candy.

Jim Shaffer Down the stairs and hang a left turn to the plastic model car section!! At Lake Festival time you could buy a Camillion (little lizard that changed colors in the sunlight) outside on the sidewalk, they would pin it on your shirt had a little string tied around its leg, so it couldn’t get away. Always seem to get away before the day was over!!

Barbara Sidenbender I worked in several areas of the store and also at the candy counter.

Amos Clifford I miss Barrs

Barb Howell I remember going there as a little girl with my hair in curlers so I could go roller skating on Saturday night.

Julie Francis My first job Loved working the candy counter

Kelly Klosterman Arnold Loved this place when I was a child & a teen.

Julie Meckstroth Derden Best department store ever!

Pamela Pearson Miss downstairs.. toyland

Jeanie Hamrick Up stairs rest room and drapery

Rick Tester For a boy growing up in Celina, this was a great place to go, the smells when you walked in. The downstairs were all places of fascination for a kid. And not to take anything away from this post about the Dime store, but Hecklers Hardware basement and Rankin's upstairs were right up high on the list for a boy in Celina as well. ?? Ya, growing up back then was the best of times for sure..??

Melissa Stelzer Best store ever!!!

Carol Humbert Back in 1952 when I was a senior...I am now 86 yrs old I worked in the hosiery and anklet dept. Mr. Barr always checked the money in my drawer. It was the register to come to if you needed change. He always had a cigar stub in his mouth. I was very anxious around him.

Tammy Stose I got a pet camillion there! Great memories!

Sharon Bolenbaugh I worked there at Barrs and sometimes in the candy station.

Marlene Snider Great memories

Tammy Ault My Grandma Edith would take my sister Cathy there on Saturday ( when we spent the night) and we would each get to pick out a toy. Also we got to get 25 cents worth of candy.

Jenifer Smith Love that place!

Rose Henkle Skinner Loved this place! Such the variety of merchandise

Jenny Hurlburt Great memories....miss that store. My grandpa Bader always had chocolate for us from there??

Kathy Denning Would buy a dimes worth of candy. Mr. Kuenning was such a nice man.

Dave Quairry Loved it there

Tina Marie Frantz I bought my first record there! Still have it!

Brenda Fullenkamp I so missed that when it was gone. Smelled so good!

Tonita Phipps My best memory is after a trip to Dr Broering's dentist office, our mom took my sister and me to Barr's and we each got Silly Putty. Loved that store.

Jane Beyke I remember Food Love GIF by RisuDong

Sue Sutter I worked there for three years along with my mom loved it

Travis Cochrane Great memories!!!

Linda Gudakunst my daughter work there

Beverly Kuenning Anyone know who the couple is with their baby?

Michael Laux I loved that store??

Sherry Heiser My Aunt, Pat Leugers worked behind the candy counter?

Betty Houser I remember.Great place.

Sonya A Myers Omg great memories

Robin Ault Every time I went to work at The Style Shop I would stop in at the candy counter and buy 25 cents worth of M & M’s. At the time it was a lot of candy for 25 cents. ??

Gary Long Best store and candy counter ever.

Kathryn Jean Looks like a Temple working behind the counter.

Nancy Thompson Parakeets, turtles

Kurt Myers

Kevin Mir

Meredith May I worked the candy counter in 89’ it was the best!!! ??

Ric Dutton The smell was amazing.

Michael Donovan I sent a lot of candy and nuts up the hand cranked elevator to that counter!

Linda Knapschaefer Loved it! Best place and I got to go there regularly on Saturdays when mom went to do her other shopping!!!

Carol Staugler Loved this store

Kim Werling The young man looks like a young Zac Ephron!

Doug Eyink Loved that place!

Bonnie Beougher It was our Saturday night entertainment when I was a kid.

Bonnie Beougher How many remember the smell when you walked in the store when the BIG candy sale was going on?

Karl Hagen That is exactly the kind of store downtown Celina, or other small town, needs.

Rhiana Jane I remember!!

John Martin A lot of memories related to that store! Sadly, those days are gone forever!

Ernest Kramer on the bright side there's is a store in the Wisconsin Dells that has bulk candy just like this ..... I pick up my black licorice there every summer

Edited James Fast I loved the toys in the basement.

Jerome Schindler Top contributor My memory is that all we offered were Wayne Candy Co. bulk Chocolates. Those were tasty. Not sure we made any profit as I sampled those many times. Candy bars were 5 cents or 5 for a quarter. as a Mr. Schmidt was told. He said, well I guess I'll take 5 then. Later he checked his math and came back madder than hell. True story. My dad, Paul, repeated that story 100x.

Terri Large My dad, Dow Roettger was assistant manager at the Barr in Celina. Great memories.

Lisa Euckert Melanie Smith Kerns.....I swear the girl in the picture looks like you....just can't place the fella, if it is you!

Nathan Giesige I miss Barr's Brad Piper

Tom Saddler Good ole days

Cindy Stelzer Jolliff When it was dollar general I needed to use the rest room. It was upstairs where the employee would check in. I was so shocked it was like time stood still upstairs. It brought so many childhood memories back to me I almost forgot to use the powder room!

Ashley Amber I can’t remember going in there is a small would Make you hungry

Ashley Amber I remember going into the basement they always have the toys down there and boyScout stuff

Lois Snyder I remember those days That store had everything I remember buying Makeup from there when I was allowed to wear it nylon hose the candy smell was something that you truly felt so good when you walked in n had to go downstairs to all the toys n the creaky floors just had to go see the birds n painted turtles what great memories from that one store alone how fortunate we were growing up in this small town n didn’t realize it but oh the memories buying raw peanuts to make peanut brittle what a great time to live!!

Jason King I spent a lot of money there as a kid!!!

Stacey Gibbons This brings back great memories

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Would love to see pics of the old toy department in the basement !!!

Darrel Conkel I'd always go to the back corner check out the parakeets then head to the basement the smell comes right back seeing the pic

Ron Kuhn That place was awesome

Sandi Watercutter Loved Loved going there as a child! And The Basement ????????????

James Fast I went straight to the basement to look at the toys.

Stacy Hecht LOVED this place!

Mary McCune My favorite place??

Marie Kessler-Eichler I really miss that store ??

Diane Mihm-Sheets I remember those days! Thanks for sharing the picture

Patsy Gray I love that too!!

Elaine Klenz Fritzinger Many memories! ??

Susan Hull I can smell it now.????

Patty Temple That is my daughter behind the counter

Mary Jo Joseph Lots of great memories seeing this!! Can almost smell it!??

Trude Laffin ? Oh the memories!!!

Cheri Dawson Smith Omg the memories! Loved working behind the candy counter! Not gonna lie, I sampled a lot!!! I also rode the dumb waiter down into the basement a few times... probably would have gotten in big trouble for this but we did it in the evening after Ed had gone home for the day! Haha! I also had a job there of printing out the sale signs. Had to do it the old style way of arranging each block letter then covering it with ink and pressing the paper onto it. We all had our own little cubby up in the mezzanine where we stored our red “cloak”. I’ll never forget the good times I had here.... my first job... 1984!

Edited Cindy Thobe Grapner I remember an embroidery kit I got for my birthday. Mom taught us all the beautiful stitches, and I was so proud of the finished product...pillowcases...I think!?!?

Linda Harner I remember those days! Oh the smell of the candy ??

Loretta Hays One of my favorite places growing up I remember we would go there and mom would let us go down stairs and see all the toys. I loved the candy counter always hit that up before going too the movies

Sheryl McMichael Ellis One of my favorite stores when I was young!!

Brenda McGillvary Severns Love that place. A true five and dime store

Eloise Hirn Hubble I can smell it in my memory!

Carolann Thees

Cheryl A Dixon Adams I loved that store!

Cheri Dawson Smith In the employee room with our cloaks and cubbies! Lol No photo description available.

Sue Giesige Oh yea! My dad loved the chocolate white drops! Not the name but not sure what it is. Might be White Chocolate drops

Cheri Dawson Smith Made some good friends behind that candy counter! No photo description available.

Lori Likens Barbara Sidenbender

Jane Suzuki Loved that store and the smell of warm cashews! And yes, the toy dept.downstairs!

Steve Wurster Top contributor I can smell that picture.......

Cindy Green I worked there for 2 years behind the Candy counter!! I can smell it too!! I miss that place??

Kim Feierstein Yes and in the backroom is where I loaded up the candy and sent it up to the candy counter

Brenda Grimm The chocolate stars were the best

Nancy Laffin My mother-in-law was known as "the candy lady" at Barrs.

Cheri Dawson Smith Ed Kuenning passed away last week at 93 years old. He was a great boss and person!

Thomas Riley Kim Werling

David Birkmeyer It really was.

Becky Norris-Cyphers We have a store kind of like that. It doesn't have that old store smell though. Funny how a smell can bring back so many forgotten memories. Thanks for the blast from the past.

Doug Roebuck Top contributor That was always a treat plus ( the nuts always smelled so good) all the toys & models in the basement and the parakeets

Edited James Fast I liked the little turtles in the tub in the back.

James Fast Mom got notions there. Whatever that was?

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Never be anotyer store like that. Where else could you buy a needle and thread, a bird, a turtle, candy, GI Joe's, Barbies, model cars and a rabbits foot? Nowhere.

Kathy Perez Really do miss those stores

Henni Hinders Ohmygosh, just seeing that counter, I can smell all that candy!!

Cheryl Weaver Many memories!!

Dave Quairry Been there many many times yummy

Rick Brooks Remember that well

Dave Quairry Decision’s decision’s

Mel Main the guy is holding a baby, but I can't put a name to him or the young lady.

Donald Knoth I remember that

Dennis Fisher Went there every SATURDAY with Grandma loved that store.

Linda Bruggeman Awesome memories!??

Kim Shouse I remember those days!

Tammy Boess One of my favorites!!

Kathy Bruggeman Loved this store

Todd Anderson Ahhhh that smell. Thats what I remember! That picture took me right back there. Damn

Darlene Pottkotter Loved that store & all the yummy candy smells??

Jim Zeisloft Remember that so well! The Barr's store in Greenville was my favorite! Right Mr. PHILLIPS?Lol

Sue Miller Wish they were here now. I want a pound of many kinds of candy. HA HA !!

David Westgerdes Loved that store & then I would go to Rankins & hoped I did not break anything there... Dory

Jo Drexler Geriak I used to work in the toy department downstairs and Kellie Mahle worked the candy counter. Used to send my candy order and money up to her in the dumbwaiter in the stockroom. Maple Nut Goodies or Boston Baked Beans were the usual.

Edited Lisa Sneddon Nickle and dime bags when we where kids.

Michelle Krick Archer Loved going there! Warm cashews ...OMG!

Ruth Ziegenbusch Loved that store. Then mom would take me to the down stairs level and i thunk they had toys there?????? Am i right??

James Fast I could buy a plastic tractor or a rubber race car for 25¢

Mark Davis Bought my cub-scout stuff in the basement

Diane Gunter Shinn I hope this is a tribute to Mr. e Ed Kuenning who passed away a few days ago - long time employee and manager of Barr's.

Shirley Roebuck I remember those days

Jennifer Baker Loved Barrs! The basement and candy counter were the best as a kid.

Kurt Myers Chocolate stars

Rick Tester Maple nut goodies from Barr’s was one of my favorites.. they were the freshest I think I’ve ever ate.. now when I find them, I plunk a handful in the microwave for about 8-10 seconds before I eat them. Not the same as what I remember getting from Barr’s but close enough to bring back a memory and a smile..????

Sylvia Miller Oh yes!

Dennis Adams O yes mrs Wilges worked there .. great basement

Kristi Corey I remember hearing the birds chirping from downstairs!! Loved going down there to look at toys and fish, hamsters and birds!!!

Kristine Dues Fun place to go! Loved that candy corner!

Nancy Toms Loved candy counter and warm nuts. Best to be found. Did they have fish in back or was that some place else. Remember the colored chicks at Easter.

Anthony-Louise Kneuss Loved going to that store....

Sonya A Myers Kristi ....I remember them too. That’s where we got our 2. They use to have the hot cinnamon tooth picks that dad would let me get. Good memories and times

Theresa Branson Me too. And that candy bar was the highlight of my youth.

James Fast My introduction to chocolate covered raisins.

Amy Nottingham-Johnson Cheri Dawson Smith we had a lot of fun working there lol

Mary Purdy Irish A ??

Barb Heitkamp I loved this store!

Dave Peters Mike Donovan worked at Barr’s and I worked next door at The Style Shop store during our high school years. We would meet in the alley between them during our break. 1965-1967 Some where close to those years. We both graduated in 1967.

Garry Gray Loved that store the bulk candy and chocolate candy mother got sewing supplies and material i got my family nice Christmas gifts there

Garry Gray I remember those days!

Garry Gray Good times!!

Garry Gray Wow! That's awesome!

Milton Howell When I was a young boy, my Great Aunt Arvesta Martz and family friend, Edith Laffin, worked behind the candy counter. That was many decades ago. Yet, I can still smell that wonderful aroma of hot roasted peanuts and see those two wonderful ladies carefully measuring out a dimes worth of candy on that fascinating scale. Grandma bought a parakeet there, named him Perky Pete and taught him to talk. His vocabulary was "Perky Pete, Pretty bird, Pretty Perky, and Here, Mitzi." Mitzi was the name of grandma's dog, which she bought for me. I never bought a chameleon but I did buy a couple of turtles who, unfortunately didn't live very long. I loved the mezzanine with all the lamps and the basement with all the toys. Thank you, Mr. Ed Kuenning, for being the manager of such a wonderful store for so many years. It was such a pleasure to know you and an honor to play some of your favorite songs at your funeral.

Lisa Miller I remember the downstairs with the toys, Girl Scout and Boy Scouts swag.

Connie Wermert I remember this! Loved this store!!! Great memories!??

Christy L Gross I forgot about the bird in the back. I was just talking to my mom about a store we used to go to that had a bird or birds in a cage and I couldn’t remember where it was. My brother and I would go straight for the stairs. While our mom got what she needed upstairs. I got many pairs of dress up heels, fake makeup and fingertip nail kits from there. ?? Then we would both get a small bag of candy before we left. Barr’s holds so many memories.

Steve Gerlach We loved going there!

Joann Schwieterman I think of it every time I go buy. It had a little bit of everything and we loved it.

Helen Uhlenhake Awww...i can smell it!

Edited Marlene Snider Chameleons during Lake Fest!

Charlene Gillis Great memories!

Linze Kay I loved this place. I can still smell it now! Always fond memories

Pam Hoying We use to ride our bikes there and get candy for a quarter..so much fun there!

Shannon Mcfarlin Top contributor Looks familiar!

Lori Baker Oh, the memories!

Shirley Pryer I can still recall the smell as I walked in!

Jeannie Giere Warm cashews or malted milk balls! Yum!

Dan Hess Remember the warm cashews

Debbie Bergman Maple nut goodies and chocolate nut clusters!

Lois Geist McNeilan Those were the days!

Mary Kay Hawk Pierce This picture brings back memories! What a fun store! You could get a bag of chocolate covered peanuts for 25 cents to take to the free movie on Wednesdays!!

Jeanie Otis Hamm I knew Arvesta Martz really well but didn’t realize you were related.

Annette Heitkamp Bertke Loved this store! Awesome memories ?.

Sarah 'Alig' Klenke I always remembered they had Mexican jumping beans, by the cash register

Doug Eyink That was the best store!!!

Kathy Forwerck I loved the warm roasted peanuts

Tom Leugers Memory makes my mouth water

Ruth Scott Those were the days!!

Chris Muhlenkamp Great memories. Such a treat chocolate covered peanuts

Wally Ellinger The candy counter was by far the most profitable part of Barr's Five-and-Dime. Dollar General could have kept it, but it was not part of their mega-store plan. How smart would it have been for them to keep it?

Andrea Weaver I worked there in the toy department!!!! It felt like the dungeon! LOL.

Denise Buschur Litmer oh yes i loved this store. loved the candy & going downstairs!!

Jennifer Miller Loved the nuts.

Michele Johnson I remember that

Paula Vanderhorst I recognize 2 people lol. Loved this place

Edited Michelle Ilene Jackson My Mother worked there when in Celina HS??

Sue Linn Smith I helped in the candy department once in awhile

Lori Baker That's Carrie Temple behind the counter. She was my neighbor and I babysat for her a few times.

Jennifer Miller Fern Alt used to work the candy counter.

Kathy Gross Pretty sure I can smell the roasted peanuts, and the chocolate right now. #memories

Sharon Nixon We did to

Mary Ann Limbert Remember it well. ?

NorbMartha Kunk I loved the bulk candy

Patti Brewer Simmon I remember those days!

Calvin Scott We would go in there before the Wednesday Matinee and buy a quarters worth of Spanish peanuts. We would get an entire bag full. Enough for the entire movie plus cartoons. Great store.

Angela Boyer Ahh, that brings back alot of memories i loved that place...I loved the toys....

Tammy Ault Looking at this pictures brings back so many good memories. I can smell the nuts roasting

Sharon McCain Sharpe Oh yes, the aroma of Barr's was the best.

Karen Brown We loved their parakeets, Mom had several, she would whistle, and he would answer her. Then we had a pair that laid and egg, never hatched but is was quite interesting

Tami Eblen I remember going there nice store

Tami Eblen One of my favorites!!

Calvin Scott During Lake Festival they sold painted turtles and chameleons on a string that you pinned to your shirt. What a classic 5&10.

Lynnette Hecht My grandma would walk to Barr’s. Christmas time she would always buy her candy therw

Lucy Ann Alig Nieport Top contributor Went a lot of times!

Sharon Nieport Heitbrink Remember well! My Dad always got a bag of Bridge Mix & sat in the car eating it while Mom shopped! Loved the wide staircase to the great toy department downstairs!

Calvin Scott That store was certainly one of the "lynch Pins" of downtown Celina.

Deb Conn-Hawkins Omgoodness it’s Missy from the racquet club, and Tim and Kayla!!

Deanna Archer I remember Barrs I loved that place when I was a kid

Marc Lacuesta Hey that's Carrie

Melita Miesse Basinger I really miss their candy!

Marie Burckholter This was my first job. I got the call on my 16th Birthday and I was so excited. I absolutely loved working there. Working behind the candy counter was the best. I miss this place.

Brenda Fry My Mother loved this place !!

Cliff Rice Chocolate drops for sure

Deb Kraft The customer is my cousin, Tim Homan!

1y David Westgerdes Good times! Dory

1y Karl Hagen I remember the smell

1y Jay Zizelman Laura Zizelman

1y Sherry Garwick Davis Who didn’t love that!

1y Dawn Roebuck Jones Loved their bridge mix

1y Karl Hagen I would bet that just recreating that part of Barr’s could be a successful business for someone

1y Doris Goins You have just made me into a time traveler, I can smell the candy, hear the creaks in the old wood floors, and see everything from hairnets to glassware!

1y Michelle Krick Archer The warm cashews were awesome!!

1y Theresa Cruea I love that

1y Michelle Huebner Loved this place!!

1y Edited Donna Gehm One of my favorites

1y Theresa Cruea

Shirley Bell

1y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Would love to see some shots from the basement and the toys.

1y Cindy Green I loved working there!!

1y Connie McCain I miss that store

1y Linda Harner Remember the smell of the warm cashews and candy

1y Kathy Perez Loved thst place

1y Dee Schmidt I remember those days! Warm fresh nuts ??

1y Ronda Shelby So many good memories

1y Dave Shaner The best model cars in town! And those warm cashews yes sir ??

1y Edited Shelly Bergman Greatest store ever

1y Kathleen Shuster I remember them selling Charlies Bakery cookies too.

1y Jerri Temple I miss that store

1y Tracy Protsman Jan Yoder

1y Evelyn Crouch I remember those days!

1y Lois Geist McNeilan Those were the days! You could smell the candy when you walked in the door!

1y Lassie Smelser loved that place

1y Shelly Clark I remember those days!

1y Scott Rife Top contributor Loved that place!!!

1y Alice Krick I remember that. That was the good ole days.

1y Darlene Imel Black One of my favorites

1y Priscilla Helmer Loved our Barrs back in the day. Nothing now days can hold a candle to it!!

1y Kim Robbins Barrs was one of my favorite stores when I moved to Celina in 1981 as a new bride. Rankins was another favorite.

1y Renee Moniz I remember those days!

1y Mary McCune It was the best ??

1y Marcia Shoffstall I love getting red skin peanuts from there

1y Melita Miesse Basinger Oh I miss this. Couldn’t wait until Saturday evening to go to Barr’s candy counter.

1y Edited Jodi Wenning I loved this store!

1y Sue MacDonald Top contributor Barr's always smelled so good because of that candy counter!

1y Lisa Kunk Dawson Oh yummy I can smell it now

1y NorbMartha Kunk One of my favoritesStill looks so good !

1y Dawn Davis That is my cousin Carrie Temple Blumberg at the counter ??

1y Janet Carlson One of my favorite childhood memories.

1y Michael Donovan I spent a lot of hours cranking candy and nuts from the basement to that counter!

1y Shelly Rockwood I worked there in high school ..??

1y Marlene Sommer Awesome, Carrie!

1y Terri Maze Aww loved goi g to Barr’s

1y Patty Temple My daughter behind the counter

1y Ann N Rusty Vorhees The smell, squeaky wood floors, and the overabundance of accordion music ....the memories!!

1y Kathryn Grimes I remember those days!Worked there in HS. Loved the Spanish peanuts!

1y Shelly Droesch Gma would take us there for a treat and we loved to go downstairs and look at the toys

1y Denis Behm Loved that place

1y Ann Kupper I remember those days!

1y Diane Wagner I want some maple nut goodies

1y Tricia Lefeld oh YES.. and the creaky floors, memories!!

1y Karen Wendel Tower That whole store was just amazing!

1y Mary Schumm My grandma, Mary Barker,used to take me there.

1y Sherry August Eady I remember that so well!

1y Becky Dugan What a wonderful place it was.

1y David Goins Loved that store

1y David Goins The had the best model cars down stairs

1y Inga James Ed Kuenning was the best boss!

52w Doug Winkeljohn Top contributor In the 50s and early 60s I would go to Barr's to buy silk scarves from Japan to cover the model airplanes that I built. They were cheaper than the silk in hobby shops. I seem to remember that they were about 50 cents and were close to a yard square.

52w Doug Winkeljohn Top contributor Also, does anyone else remember the Ohio sales tax stamps that the merchants used to give you when you bought something? This would have been in the late 40s and early 50s.

52w Vivian Bransteter Yes, it was. Always a favorite stop.

52w Andrea Stolz- Knapke I can smell the store from looking at the picture ??

52w Jan MonroeNeely-Bourelle Remember it well! Great candy and wonderful nuts ??

52w Dennis Fisher My Grandma took my sister's and me in there every Sat. It was great.

52w Becky Lawrence Harter Yes, Jan! Great candy and great memories!

52w Marie Kessler-Eichler Memories ??

52w Kathy Bruggeman Loved that store

52w Shirley Roebuck I remember those days!

51w Marlene Easterlin Loved that store….especially the basement!

51w Dayle Ross Top contributor When main street Celina was at it's busiest with many clothing and shoe stores. This was the best little department store. Pets, house wares, hardware, clothing, school supplies, art supplies, lots of toys, crocheted doilies and table cloths and a candy counter with roasted nuts and popcorn made fresh everyday. Love the memories!

51w Scott Dammeyer Chocolate & toys in Barr’s basement are my memories along with Ed Kuenning, mgr

51w Kathy Crimble McDougal My favorite childhood memory

51w Nancy Wallace Oh how I miss the candy counter at the dime store! Remember the creaks in the floor?! The basement was all toys!

50w Nancy Laffin My mother-in-law was known as "the candy lady."

Tom Fast I remember!

Linda Moyers Loved that store

Debbie Bergman The memories are flooding back!

Susan Hull Oh what I wouldn't do to spend at least 5 minutes there. What great memories.

Cheryl Braun I think I see the Maple Nut goodies.

Viki Shaffer I took my kids there and they each got to pick a quarter pound of candy! They put each in a little bag for each kid, so special?? loved Easter candy shopping there too

Judy Kay Davis Loved that store and buying candy that way. They always had Easter eggs filled with different fillings and could get names wrote on them.??????

Sandra Kable I remember the warm peanuts. Was really a nice store.

Rita Fullenkamp I can still smell the store.... yum??

Ava Alt Burkheimer My first job!

Doris Goins My grandpa every week would buy a pound of chocolate stars regularly. He would also buy a pound of some other candy. I guess chocolate must be good for you as he lived to his upper 90's.

Tracy Sawmiller I miss Barr's!

EdRonda Schaadt I worked behind that counter for a couple of years while I was in high school. Favorite place for people to come at 8:55 on Saturday night! Working there certainly did not disminish my love of candy!

Christopher Brush Loved the hard candy Dad would get us for Christmas! I spent a lot of hours over the years in the basement toy section.

Jeff Pontsler I used to be Asst. Mgr. - looong time ago! I'd get to drive to Spangler and other candy manufacturers in the box truck and get the candy - They would give me bags of "irregular candy" to eat on the way back...then I'd park in back of Barrs and unload the boxes through the chute in the alley to the basement for storage....great memories!

Betty Caywood Miss this store.

Doris Goins On a Saturday night my father would park outside and eat warm Spanish peanuts while my mother shopped inside. Lots of people on the streets shopping that would stop and visit with him.

Bonnie Beougher Loved going to this store.

Jen Dennis I miss that and the creaky floors

Eloise Hirn Hubble Loved the smell of nuts roasting!

Druann Kuenning Whitaker Love this.??

Darrel Conkel I can remember the smell of that store and the parakeets in the back corner and toys in the basement good times

Teresa Hand Wow what a blast from the past

Linda Harner During sidewalk sales they sold camilians.

Eric Bertke Carrie Temple Blumberg is that you in the picture

Emily Stewart Carrie Temple Blumberg

Vicki Lee Gibson Harris Yep that’s Carrie Temple Blumberg

Deb Huwer I loved this store and it was a real treat to go there! My grandparents used to take me with them,just park in front of the store and “ watch the people” on a Saturday night. Small town living.....

Ronda Shelby Every Saturday and their chocolate peanut cluster yum yum

Lisa Kunk Dawson I can smell it now

Trude Laffin What a wonderful memory!

Judi Bennett Patrick Good times!

Gail Richey To bad they do not have these around any more. Ah the simple life back then

Lynn Boroff I remember it well.????

Tim Heiby Wooden floors toys in basement and candy counter like a dream come true

Chad Sara Etzler Michele Johnson

Sue Linn Smith Worked in the candy department

Helen Uhlenhake Yummy! Even when Mom didn't let us buy candy, the smell was satisfying!

Sandy Stanfield Ava Alt Burkheimer you probably waited on me

Jennifer Henkle I miss these days! And I graduated with the girl behind the counter! Carrie Temple Blumberg

Dorothy Mader Dad parked in front of Barr’s on Saturday night, and we watched the people walk by., that was our entertainment. Before we left he went in a bought sone chocolate.such a great memory

Steve Wurster Top contributor Loved their models and toys.....

Janet Krieg Mom would bring Dad Spanish peanuts & nut goodies. Malted milk balls for us??great memories!

Cathy Sell Smith Miss that store??

Sue Bills We went with our grandma Clune. It was always special to go there with her??

Kris Stein Always went their with my Grandma Mae. Precious memories ??

Sue Kramer Went there a lot growing up. Wish they still had some stores like this

Paula Vanderhorst Omg yes I remember ??????. Em Maggs

Susan R. Buschur Beverly Kuenning show this to Wilma and Ed!

Karen G. Fleming Great memory!

Tami Eblen I loved that store

Carolyn Bates Thank You for sharing!! Wow!! The memories!!

Tessie Collins I still remember the smell of the store!

Mary Sudhoff Long time ago.

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Good photo !!! If we would have known this internet thing was coming, we'd have taken pictures of all those places !!

Molly Eyink Loved to go there and see what they had

Linda Schindler I worked there for almost 12 years.

Kim Masser Oh my goodness, the girls and I spent a lot of time there!

Sylvia Miller ????

Kathy Grisez I loved going there....

Tim Raymond Hot cashews

Norma Wolters Jill Hammer. Did you work there during high school?

Terri Fuson I miss that place. Ed was a great person to work for.

Joe Howell Convoy people enjoyed BUD'S VARIETY STORE ! Especially the candy counter !!!

Cathy Jo Schreima I love that place

Jen Settlemire Karen Teeters

Susie Stoner Oh how I loved that store!! And never have I found a malted candy Easter egg that compares with those they use to sell. Thank you for sharing, Holli!

Jeremy A. Joseph I really enjoyed going here and the toy basement

Jan Belna Loved that store

Ginny Kremer I loved to go in that store at Christmas time with my mom when I was a little girl. She’d always buy a bag of candy or nuts to take home and then we’d eat some on the way home.

Cheryl Weaver I remember it well!

Melissa Pinks Loved going to Barr's used to walk up with my Grandpa Schneider

Donna Gardner I loved going there. I remember mom buying doilies from there. Not sure if people still use them or if they even sell or make them any more.

Erika Hoover Miss that store

Rick Tester So does anyone recognize the faces in this picture? ?? A little bit of reminiscing from an earlier time..??

Barb Heitkamp Sure brings back good memories ??

Steve Wurster Top contributor I can still smell it......mmmmmmm

Lois Geist McNeilan Those were the days!!

Ann Williamson Oh yes! And the toy department in the basement!! ??

Hazel Grant Miss this kind of store ,difinety good old days.

Gary Koesters Loved that place .. Was a treat to go in there when I was a kid and get some candy from the counter..

Marlene Sommer Love this pic of you Carrie Temple Blumberg! When I was a kid we walked to Barr’s to get candy about every day!

Kelly Pummell I loved that store. They had everything.

Loretta Hays Loved that store

Michael Shaffer I look at this picture and I can smell it, just like I could every time you opened their front door. Barr’s was just a neat place, period. Sometimes after school, I’d walk in and just walk the aisles while I waited for my Mom to get off work. I’d always end up downstairs in the toy department. Almost every time I’d go, Mr. Kuenning would come up to me and say “Hey there, Buster!” with a smile on his face while he ruffled up my hair. We’d make a couple seconds of chit chat before he’d go on about his business. He’d always say “Stay as long as you’d like and let me know if there’s anything you need”... never any following you around like a vulture and glaring at you like he thought you were about to run out with 1/2 of the store in your pockets, just a nice, friendly guy. As far as the candy went, the maple peanut clusters were my favorite. They happened to be my Dad’s favorite too, so I never had to beg him to buy a bag whenever we went in. It would be nice if stores were still like that. I miss Main Street USA and I believe our nation would be a much better place if we could get a little of that back.??

Missy Sidenbender Now all we need is a pic of the basement... with all the toys!

Mark Purdy I can practically smell the sugar and the roasted peanuts.

Susan Beth Hellwarth Miller Loved that place! And loved going there with Dad! He loved candy as much as his three kids did so we always went home with lots of goodies.

Irwin Cheryl Bailey Remember the hazelnut cremes that look like moth balls?

James Reed My first stop was to go to the Boy Scout section in the basement and check out pocket knives.

Paula Casad I worked behind the Candy counter in 1973 or 1974. I remember there was a dumbwaiter in the floor where we brought the candy up from the basement to stock the bins. We also got paid in cash in little envelopes. Does anyone else remember the Lawrence Welk type accordion music that always played over the speakers?

Randy Winkeljohn Top contributor Still hear the creaky wooden floor!!!

Wendy Blevins Vanover Loved and miss it

Becky Lawrence Harter I use to love going into Barr’s and being greeted by all the candies! Every Christmas Eve my dad would go there and bring all kinds of chocolates and other kinds of candy home for our Christmas holidays. ??

Pat Lane I worked there in high school in late 50’s. Even did candy at times.

Carol Uhlenhake-Knapke Worked there while in high school. Worked in every department they had. Sure enjoyed working for Ed Kuenning. Such a great boss.

Jerry Bertke We got Our candy there and than Hid it in our shirts for the theater

NorbMartha Kunk Loved it ,could visit there now

Mary Heinrichs Not just the candy, the warm nuts and toys downstairs??

Darl Strable Loved that place

Norma Wolters Easter time always brings memories of the cute colored chicks they sold. Pink Blue green.

Diana Youngs Finkelmeier Friday and Saturday nights in Celina were packed with families. All stores were open till 9. I miss those days!

Jackie Andrews My favorite place as a kid

Joy Warthman I know, me too! We could get a quarters worth of candy & we all 4 d it! ?? oh the good old days! ??

Karl Hagen That store and Rankins, western auto and the clothing stores I miss

Gidget Applegate Amber Shaner

Karl Hagen At the same time I love Walmart and Amazon. Sorry.

Nathan Chapman My girlfriend worked at the candy counter. We've now been married 30 yrs.

Mary Rose Vogt Loved going there. Mom would give us each enough money to pick out our favorite candy. Barb always got butterscotch nut buddies, I got chocolate covered peanuts, I think Gerrie got burnt peanuts.

Randy Winkeljohn Top contributor Painted turtles at Lake Festival.

Valerie Vermillion Where is it located

Mel Main The best place to shop in Celina. Oh how I miss the good days.

Brent Ireland I remember that place

Tasha Rolfes Potts Carrie Temple Blumberg so neat! I am assuming this is you ??

Edited Susie Hasenjager That is awesome! I always went there with my grandma and ordering some politically inappropriate name for candy. Nowadays I would call them chocolate covered creams LOL

Tracey Gillis Mueller This was the best!!

Jean Stachler Oh yes, we all remember Barr`s 5 an dime store...and remember the toys in the basement and the lamps on the upper balcony....such a neat store!

Karl Hagen You could get a parakeet too

Ann Farrell I worked in the store in high school.

Christine Tobin They had the best candy.

Jim Shaffer Down the stairs and hang a left turn to the plastic model car section!! At Lake Festival time you could buy a Camillion (little lizard that changed colors in the sunlight) outside on the sidewalk, they would pin it on your shirt had a little string tied around its leg, so it couldn’t get away. Always seem to get away before the day was over!!

Barbara Sidenbender I worked in several areas of the store and also at the candy counter.

Amos Clifford I miss Barrs

Barb Howell I remember going there as a little girl with my hair in curlers so I could go roller skating on Saturday night.

Julie Francis My first job Loved working the candy counter

Kelly Klosterman Arnold Loved this place when I was a child & a teen.

Julie Meckstroth Derden Best department store ever!

Pamela Pearson Miss downstairs.. toyland

Jeanie Hamrick Up stairs rest room and drapery

Rick Tester For a boy growing up in Celina, this was a great place to go, the smells when you walked in. The downstairs were all places of fascination for a kid. And not to take anything away from this post about the Dime store, but Hecklers Hardware basement and Rankin's upstairs were right up high on the list for a boy in Celina as well. ?? Ya, growing up back then was the best of times for sure..??

Melissa Stelzer Best store ever!!!

Carol Humbert Back in 1952 when I was a senior...I am now 86 yrs old I worked in the hosiery and anklet dept. Mr. Barr always checked the money in my drawer. It was the register to come to if you needed change. He always had a cigar stub in his mouth. I was very anxious around him.

Tammy Stose I got a pet camillion there! Great memories!

Sharon Bolenbaugh I worked there at Barrs and sometimes in the candy station.

Marlene Snider Great memories

Tammy Ault My Grandma Edith would take my sister Cathy there on Saturday ( when we spent the night) and we would each get to pick out a toy. Also we got to get 25 cents worth of candy.

Jenifer Smith Love that place!

Rose Henkle Skinner Loved this place! Such the variety of merchandise

Jenny Hurlburt Great memories....miss that store. My grandpa Bader always had chocolate for us from there??

Kathy Denning Would buy a dimes worth of candy. Mr. Kuenning was such a nice man.

Dave Quairry Loved it there

Tina Marie Frantz I bought my first record there! Still have it!

Brenda Fullenkamp I so missed that when it was gone. Smelled so good!

Tonita Phipps My best memory is after a trip to Dr Broering's dentist office, our mom took my sister and me to Barr's and we each got Silly Putty. Loved that store.

Jane Beyke I remember Food Love GIF by RisuDong

Sue Sutter I worked there for three years along with my mom loved it

Travis Cochrane Great memories!!!

Linda Gudakunst my daughter work there

Beverly Kuenning Anyone know who the couple is with their baby?

Michael Laux I loved that store??

Sherry Heiser My Aunt, Pat Leugers worked behind the candy counter?

Betty Houser I remember.Great place.

Sonya A Myers Omg great memories

Robin Ault Every time I went to work at The Style Shop I would stop in at the candy counter and buy 25 cents worth of M & M’s. At the time it was a lot of candy for 25 cents. ??

Gary Long Best store and candy counter ever.

Kathryn Jean Looks like a Temple working behind the counter.

Nancy Thompson Parakeets, turtles

Kurt Myers

Kevin Mir

Meredith May I worked the candy counter in 89’ it was the best!!! ??

Ric Dutton The smell was amazing.

Michael Donovan I sent a lot of candy and nuts up the hand cranked elevator to that counter!

Linda Knapschaefer Loved it! Best place and I got to go there regularly on Saturdays when mom went to do her other shopping!!!

Carol Staugler Loved this store

Kim Werling The young man looks like a young Zac Ephron!

Doug Eyink Loved that place!

Bonnie Beougher It was our Saturday night entertainment when I was a kid.

Bonnie Beougher How many remember the smell when you walked in the store when the BIG candy sale was going on?

Karl Hagen That is exactly the kind of store downtown Celina, or other small town, needs.

Rhiana Jane I remember!!

John Martin A lot of memories related to that store! Sadly, those days are gone forever!

Ernest Kramer on the bright side there's is a store in the Wisconsin Dells that has bulk candy just like this ..... I pick up my black licorice there every summer

Edited James Fast I loved the toys in the basement.

Jerome Schindler Top contributor My memory is that all we offered were Wayne Candy Co. bulk Chocolates. Those were tasty. Not sure we made any profit as I sampled those many times. Candy bars were 5 cents or 5 for a quarter. as a Mr. Schmidt was told. He said, well I guess I'll take 5 then. Later he checked his math and came back madder than hell. True story. My dad, Paul, repeated that story 100x.

Terri Large My dad, Dow Roettger was assistant manager at the Barr in Celina. Great memories.

Lisa Euckert Melanie Smith Kerns.....I swear the girl in the picture looks like you....just can't place the fella, if it is you!

Nathan Giesige I miss Barr's Brad Piper

Tom Saddler Good ole days

Cindy Stelzer Jolliff When it was dollar general I needed to use the rest room. It was upstairs where the employee would check in. I was so shocked it was like time stood still upstairs. It brought so many childhood memories back to me I almost forgot to use the powder room!

Ashley Amber I can’t remember going in there is a small would Make you hungry

Ashley Amber I remember going into the basement they always have the toys down there and boyScout stuff

Lois Snyder I remember those days That store had everything I remember buying Makeup from there when I was allowed to wear it nylon hose the candy smell was something that you truly felt so good when you walked in n had to go downstairs to all the toys n the creaky floors just had to go see the birds n painted turtles what great memories from that one store alone how fortunate we were growing up in this small town n didn’t realize it but oh the memories buying raw peanuts to make peanut brittle what a great time to live!!

Jason King I spent a lot of money there as a kid!!!

Stacey Gibbons This brings back great memories

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Would love to see pics of the old toy department in the basement !!!

Darrel Conkel I'd always go to the back corner check out the parakeets then head to the basement the smell comes right back seeing the pic

Ron Kuhn That place was awesome

Sandi Watercutter Loved Loved going there as a child! And The Basement ????????????

James Fast I went straight to the basement to look at the toys.

Stacy Hecht LOVED this place!

Mary McCune My favorite place??

Marie Kessler-Eichler I really miss that store ??

Diane Mihm-Sheets I remember those days! Thanks for sharing the picture

Patsy Gray I love that too!!

Elaine Klenz Fritzinger Many memories! ??

Susan Hull I can smell it now.????

Patty Temple That is my daughter behind the counter

Mary Jo Joseph Lots of great memories seeing this!! Can almost smell it!??

Trude Laffin ? Oh the memories!!!

Cheri Dawson Smith Omg the memories! Loved working behind the candy counter! Not gonna lie, I sampled a lot!!! I also rode the dumb waiter down into the basement a few times... probably would have gotten in big trouble for this but we did it in the evening after Ed had gone home for the day! Haha! I also had a job there of printing out the sale signs. Had to do it the old style way of arranging each block letter then covering it with ink and pressing the paper onto it. We all had our own little cubby up in the mezzanine where we stored our red “cloak”. I’ll never forget the good times I had here.... my first job... 1984!

Edited Cindy Thobe Grapner I remember an embroidery kit I got for my birthday. Mom taught us all the beautiful stitches, and I was so proud of the finished product...pillowcases...I think!?!?

Linda Harner I remember those days! Oh the smell of the candy ??

Loretta Hays One of my favorite places growing up I remember we would go there and mom would let us go down stairs and see all the toys. I loved the candy counter always hit that up before going too the movies

Sheryl McMichael Ellis One of my favorite stores when I was young!!

Brenda McGillvary Severns Love that place. A true five and dime store

Eloise Hirn Hubble I can smell it in my memory!

Carolann Thees

Cheryl A Dixon Adams I loved that store!

Cheri Dawson Smith In the employee room with our cloaks and cubbies! Lol No photo description available.

Sue Giesige Oh yea! My dad loved the chocolate white drops! Not the name but not sure what it is. Might be White Chocolate drops

Cheri Dawson Smith Made some good friends behind that candy counter! No photo description available.

Lori Likens Barbara Sidenbender

Jane Suzuki Loved that store and the smell of warm cashews! And yes, the toy dept.downstairs!

Steve Wurster Top contributor I can smell that picture.......

Cindy Green I worked there for 2 years behind the Candy counter!! I can smell it too!! I miss that place??

Kim Feierstein Yes and in the backroom is where I loaded up the candy and sent it up to the candy counter

Brenda Grimm The chocolate stars were the best

Nancy Laffin My mother-in-law was known as "the candy lady" at Barrs.

Cheri Dawson Smith Ed Kuenning passed away last week at 93 years old. He was a great boss and person!

Thomas Riley Kim Werling

David Birkmeyer It really was.

Becky Norris-Cyphers We have a store kind of like that. It doesn't have that old store smell though. Funny how a smell can bring back so many forgotten memories. Thanks for the blast from the past.

Doug Roebuck Top contributor That was always a treat plus ( the nuts always smelled so good) all the toys & models in the basement and the parakeets

Edited James Fast I liked the little turtles in the tub in the back.

James Fast Mom got notions there. Whatever that was?

Tom Hendricks Top contributor Never be anotyer store like that. Where else could you buy a needle and thread, a bird, a turtle, candy, GI Joe's, Barbies, model cars and a rabbits foot? Nowhere.

Kathy Perez Really do miss those stores

Henni Hinders Ohmygosh, just seeing that counter, I can smell all that candy!!

Cheryl Weaver Many memories!!

Dave Quairry Been there many many times yummy

Rick Brooks Remember that well

Dave Quairry Decision’s decision’s

Mel Main the guy is holding a baby, but I can't put a name to him or the young lady.

Donald Knoth I remember that

Dennis Fisher Went there every SATURDAY with Grandma loved that store.

Linda Bruggeman Awesome memories!??

Kim Shouse I remember those days!

Tammy Boess One of my favorites!!

Kathy Bruggeman Loved this store

Todd Anderson Ahhhh that smell. Thats what I remember! That picture took me right back there. Damn

Darlene Pottkotter Loved that store & all the yummy candy smells??

Jim Zeisloft Remember that so well! The Barr's store in Greenville was my favorite! Right Mr. PHILLIPS?Lol

Sue Miller Wish they were here now. I want a pound of many kinds of candy. HA HA !!

David Westgerdes Loved that store & then I would go to Rankins & hoped I did not break anything there... Dory

Jo Drexler Geriak I used to work in the toy department downstairs and Kellie Mahle worked the candy counter. Used to send my candy order and money up to her in the dumbwaiter in the stockroom. Maple Nut Goodies or Boston Baked Beans were the usual.

Edited Lisa Sneddon Nickle and dime bags when we where kids.

Michelle Krick Archer Loved going there! Warm cashews ...OMG!

Ruth Ziegenbusch Loved that store. Then mom would take me to the down stairs level and i thunk they had toys there?????? Am i right??

James Fast I could buy a plastic tractor or a rubber race car for 25¢

Mark Davis Bought my cub-scout stuff in the basement

Diane Gunter Shinn I hope this is a tribute to Mr. e Ed Kuenning who passed away a few days ago - long time employee and manager of Barr's.

Shirley Roebuck I remember those days

Jennifer Baker Loved Barrs! The basement and candy counter were the best as a kid.

Kurt Myers Chocolate stars

Rick Tester Maple nut goodies from Barr’s was one of my favorites.. they were the freshest I think I’ve ever ate.. now when I find them, I plunk a handful in the microwave for about 8-10 seconds before I eat them. Not the same as what I remember getting from Barr’s but close enough to bring back a memory and a smile..????

Sylvia Miller Oh yes!

Dennis Adams O yes mrs Wilges worked there .. great basement

Kristi Corey I remember hearing the birds chirping from downstairs!! Loved going down there to look at toys and fish, hamsters and birds!!!

Kristine Dues Fun place to go! Loved that candy corner!

Nancy Toms Loved candy counter and warm nuts. Best to be found. Did they have fish in back or was that some place else. Remember the colored chicks at Easter.

Anthony-Louise Kneuss Loved going to that store....

Sonya A Myers Kristi ....I remember them too. That’s where we got our 2. They use to have the hot cinnamon tooth picks that dad would let me get. Good memories and times

Theresa Branson Me too. And that candy bar was the highlight of my youth.

James Fast My introduction to chocolate covered raisins.

Amy Nottingham-Johnson Cheri Dawson Smith we had a lot of fun working there lol

Mary Purdy Irish A ??

Barb Heitkamp I loved this store!

Dave Peters Mike Donovan worked at Barr’s and I worked next door at The Style Shop store during our high school years. We would meet in the alley between them during our break. 1965-1967 Some where close to those years. We both graduated in 1967.

Garry Gray Loved that store the bulk candy and chocolate candy mother got sewing supplies and material i got my family nice Christmas gifts there

Garry Gray I remember those days!

Garry Gray Good times!!

Garry Gray Wow! That's awesome!

Milton Howell When I was a young boy, my Great Aunt Arvesta Martz and family friend, Edith Laffin, worked behind the candy counter. That was many decades ago. Yet, I can still smell that wonderful aroma of hot roasted peanuts and see those two wonderful ladies carefully measuring out a dimes worth of candy on that fascinating scale. Grandma bought a parakeet there, named him Perky Pete and taught him to talk. His vocabulary was "Perky Pete, Pretty bird, Pretty Perky, and Here, Mitzi." Mitzi was the name of grandma's dog, which she bought for me. I never bought a chameleon but I did buy a couple of turtles who, unfortunately didn't live very long. I loved the mezzanine with all the lamps and the basement with all the toys. Thank you, Mr. Ed Kuenning, for being the manager of such a wonderful store for so many years. It was such a pleasure to know you and an honor to play some of your favorite songs at your funeral.

Lisa Miller I remember the downstairs with the toys, Girl Scout and Boy Scouts swag.

Connie Wermert I remember this! Loved this store!!! Great memories!??

Christy L Gross I forgot about the bird in the back. I was just talking to my mom about a store we used to go to that had a bird or birds in a cage and I couldn’t remember where it was. My brother and I would go straight for the stairs. While our mom got what she needed upstairs. I got many pairs of dress up heels, fake makeup and fingertip nail kits from there. ?? Then we would both get a small bag of candy before we left. Barr’s holds so many memories.

Steve Gerlach We loved going there!

Joann Schwieterman I think of it every time I go buy. It had a little bit of everything and we loved it.

Helen Uhlenhake Awww...i can smell it!

Edited Marlene Snider Chameleons during Lake Fest!

Charlene Gillis Great memories!

Linze Kay I loved this place. I can still smell it now! Always fond memories

Pam Hoying We use to ride our bikes there and get candy for a quarter..so much fun there!

Shannon Mcfarlin Top contributor Looks familiar!

Lori Baker Oh, the memories!

Shirley Pryer I can still recall the smell as I walked in!

Jeannie Giere Warm cashews or malted milk balls! Yum!

Dan Hess Remember the warm cashews

Debbie Bergman Maple nut goodies and chocolate nut clusters!

Lois Geist McNeilan Those were the days!

Mary Kay Hawk Pierce This picture brings back memories! What a fun store! You could get a bag of chocolate covered peanuts for 25 cents to take to the free movie on Wednesdays!!

Jeanie Otis Hamm I knew Arvesta Martz really well but didn’t realize you were related.

Annette Heitkamp Bertke Loved this store! Awesome memories ?.

Sarah 'Alig' Klenke I always remembered they had Mexican jumping beans, by the cash register

Doug Eyink That was the best store!!!

Kathy Forwerck I loved the warm roasted peanuts

Tom Leugers Memory makes my mouth water

Ruth Scott Those were the days!!

Chris Muhlenkamp Great memories. Such a treat chocolate covered peanuts

Wally Ellinger The candy counter was by far the most profitable part of Barr's Five-and-Dime. Dollar General could have kept it, but it was not part of their mega-store plan. How smart would it have been for them to keep it?

Andrea Weaver I worked there in the toy department!!!! It felt like the dungeon! LOL.

Denise Buschur Litmer oh yes i loved this store. loved the candy & going downstairs!!

Jennifer Miller Loved the nuts.

Michele Johnson I remember that

Paula Vanderhorst I recognize 2 people lol. Loved this place

Edited Michelle Ilene Jackson My Mother worked there when in Celina HS??

Sue Linn Smith I helped in the candy department once in awhile

Lori Baker That's Carrie Temple behind the counter. She was my neighbor and I babysat for her a few times.

Jennifer Miller Fern Alt used to work the candy counter.

Kathy Gross Pretty sure I can smell the roasted peanuts, and the chocolate right now. #memories

Sharon Nixon We did to

Mary Ann Limbert Remember it well. ?

NorbMartha Kunk I loved the bulk candy

Patti Brewer Simmon I remember those days!

Calvin Scott We would go in there before the Wednesday Matinee and buy a quarters worth of Spanish peanuts. We would get an entire bag full. Enough for the entire movie plus cartoons. Great store.

Angela Boyer Ahh, that brings back alot of memories i loved that place...I loved the toys....

Tammy Ault Looking at this pictures brings back so many good memories. I can smell the nuts roasting

Tom Hendricks Top contributor That's where I bought lots of cool toys !! Share 9y Travis Hole the car models Share 9y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Here is an authentic Barr's basement toy from the 70's. From my personal collection. ?? A Corvette. Of course. No photo description available. Share 9y Edited Vicki Lee Gibson Harris Author Now that is Rocking Awesome Tom. Wow that brings back so many fond memories of how Barr's Toyland was truly a majical place for countless kids such as our generation. Thank you for sharing. Share 9y Linda Ckroi I worked there during the Cabbage Patch Kid fad. All those dolls! Share 9y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Linda Orick I'm not a doll collector, but I put one of those away too. Here's my 85 version I bought nearly 30 years ago. Still has the old Celina JC Penney price tag on it. ?? No photo description available. Share 9y Linda Ckroi When I worked there, I found the back storeroom with boxes of paperbacks. I would read some of those books during slow times in the basement. The cash register was one of those antiquated push/lever ones that popped the dollar or cent amount in the window! No change calculating option on that one!lol Share 9y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Ed wouldn't spring for a new register ?? LOL ?? Share 9y Linda Ckroi I guess not!lol Share 9y Peggy Pyle Vaught I remember how the hardwood floors would creak when you walked. And the wide steps going to the downstairs, and of course all the candy. Share 9y Keith Frazier Isn't that something remembering little things like the floor. Amazing memories we have Share 9y Dylan Correll is this where Dollar General is now? Share 9y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Yes Share 9y Linda Ckroi Dollar General? Wow. Disrespectful of the building and business. Share 9y Tom Hendricks Top contributor Linda Orick it is much better than another empty building in town. ?? Share 9y Linda Ckroi I agree. I feel sad when I see a cvs and a Starbucks on every corner. Franchises have decimated the small business owner. Share 9y Tom Fisher We use to go there and buy snacks to sneak into the movie theatre. And my brother would go there and buy the model rockets. Share 9y Peggy Pyle Vaught I agree on the DG, way better than an empty bldg. Share 9y Larry Grier Loved going there.. Share 9y Kellie Marie I always went there to get candy. They had a lot of different chocolate candy ?? Share 9y Doug Roebuck Top contributor They had a great toy department in the basement and a good candy department too. Share 9y Tim Duerr Who can ever forget the chameleons Barr's sold that were fastened to your shirt, during the Sidewalk Sales? I got one every year it seemed. The highlight of the Lake Festival! Share 9y Travis Bates I loved going in here looking at the parakeets. I had two different ones from there Share 9y Edited Cynthia Alexandria I loved that store!! Share 9y Larry Willrath Remember amato produce across the street fresh roasted peanuts you could smell them roasting all over down town Share 9y Dixie Cook Bowers Remember the little painted turtles? Share 9y Tim Duerr Yes! They even sold baby alligators. Share 9y Kathy Evers Muhlenkamp Loved going here with my mom Share 9y Marsha Celic My great grand parents, Joe and Iva Adams would always take me there when I visited them on Erastus-Durbin Rd back in 60's. Loved going to the candy cases and always getting a small bag of chocolate to take home with me. Share 9y Kendra Kuhn remember at easter when you got your name wrote on the chocolate eggs and u picked them up on saturday before easter Share 9y Teresa Heitbrink-Ireland Loved that place. My Mom bought me a handkerchief there for my 1st date. Which I am sure I used for all the wrong reasons Share 9y Sara Hamblin On Saturday evenings my Grandparents would park in front of Barr's and socialize with all the people. Grandpa always told me the best parking space to see the most people was in front of Barr's. Share 9y Vicki Piper Denny was asst. manager there when we first got married Share 9y Kay Weitz Heiby my mom worked there we would always go up on sat night to pick her up from work and sat in the car and watch the people Share 9y Marie Burckholter that was my first job when I turned 16. On my birthday the owner called me and Said I had the job..... I was so excited ?? Share 9y Janice Scott Would get our Christmas candy there. Now we have to go to Birts. But that is a fun store Share 9y Susan Kuhn Goedde It was a wonderful place to work! Our smock pockets were always stained with chocolate. Share 9y Brad Lovett I worked there for about.....five minutes. At the time it was owned by a small chain called W.R. Thomas. Remember going to Northeast Indiana to pick up merchandise Share 9y Doug Roebuck Top contributor Used to be neat to go "up town" on Saturday night! Share 9y Lillian Keefer Remember the parakeets? Share 9y Ami Harner-Jerew .....where did the downstairs go!? Share 9y Gary Moorman Ami....The basement was the toy department, candy storage and stock. Share 9y Ami Harner-Jerew ...maybe I do not remember where the steps to the basement was....you don't notice any evidence of a basement when you go in there today lol.. Share 9y Brad Lovett I know there was a basement, I personally went there the brief time I worked there Share 9y CaroleGoffena AndDon Mayes grandma, can we go???!!! Share 9y Matthew A Whited about halfwayback inside Share 9y Lura Hayes Remember when they would have the big chocolate sale? yummy