In Tribute to Joseph and Nettie Bowers
Who Helped Make a Dream a Reality
The Saunders County Historical Museum
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| Joe and Nettie Bowers, wedding picture, August 11, 1909. |
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Bowers lived most of their lives in Saunders County, serving the community of Wahoo in particular. Born on a homestead, one of twelve children, and having a minimum amount of education, Mr. Bowers mastered telegraphy to become a depot agent for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. His chosen career lasted for nearly fifty years.
Mr. Bowers married Antoinette Stasanka of Wilbur, Nebraska on August 11, 1909. Nettie, daughter of Karl and Esther Stasanka, was born June 13, 1884 at Chicago, Illinois. Her father was the owner of a tailoring shop. He died when Nettie was three years old. When she was about five; the family moved to Wilbur where she received her education. She taught school in Saline County and later in Prague where she met Joe.
Joe was always sociable, jovial, and affectionate. He was the anchor for his large family of brothers and sisters, keeping in touch with each one. He and Nettie were regarded with great respect, admiration and fondness by their family and friends.
Mr. and Mrs. Bowers made generous donations to the Wahoo Community. They deeded their home and land located by the depot to the Saunders County Historical Society. The Museum now sits on the land which has been named Joe Bowers Memorial Park. In the mid 1970's they made a $15,000 contribution to the Organ Fund of the First Presbyterian Church, stimulating the congregation to raise the additional money needed for the organ which was installed in 1977.
When asked what prompted him and his wife to deed his land, home, and possessions to the Historical Society, he answered: "I was busy all the days of my life. I had no time or chance to spend money. I saved it and made careful investments. They paid off -- grew and grew. Soon the investments were making more money than I was! We have no living children so I try to help people and organizations when a worthy cause comes up. We gave our land, home, and valuable personal collections to the people of the city of Wahoo for the wonderful life Wahoo gave to us, our job, our home, our friends.
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