120 years ago WASHINGTON COUNTY JOURNAL “Independent and Impartial” January 2, 1903 Washington Letter (From our Regular Correspondent) Washington, Dec. 24, 1902

The fact that the entire country is, even in the midst of the holiday season, taking the most lively interest in the Venezuela situation is a matter of surprise to most public men. The widespread interest is evidenced by the great number of telegrams which are being received by the President and members of his Cabinet apropos of the leading phase of the Venezuela question as it stands today. Shall the President accept the position of arbitrator? There is a wide difference of opinion on the subject, not only among the public but among the administration officials…

From across the nation: 

The year 1902 has passed into history and facts and figures indicate that it was the most prosperous year in the history of the country, notwithstanding the anthracite coal strike, which (slowed) business for many months. The United States is at peace with the world and if nothing happens the coming year will be even more prosperous than the past. At home in Minnesota: Gov. Van Sant has reappointed nearly all of his official family and they voiced their appreciation with a beautiful gift of a watch and chain to which was attached an elegant Masonic charm.

Card of Thanks

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our neighbors and friends, who so kindly assisted us in our recent affliction, the death of our dear little sister and daughter. Mr. and Mrs. M. J. McLeer and children. Little Helen is Gone Helen Elizabeth, the beloved daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M. J. McLeer, died December 24, 1902, of cerebral meningitis, aged 2 years and ten months. The funeral was held on Friday afternoon at four o’clock from St. Michael’s church, interment at South Stillwater. The pall bearers were Misses Rose Burke, Ella Donovan, Ruth O’ Brien, and Hazel Grant and Josephine O’Brien and Elaine Kilty were the flower girls. Now she’s gone and left us, Her face we see no more, But she’s happy with the angels, Beyond this world of misery. She has left the world behind her World of pain and strife, For a world of constant happiness, Far above the skies. J. M. J. Find a Grave Memorial ID: 189229575 Parents: Michael Joseph and Elizabeth G. (McGrath) McLeer Siblings: William J; Mary C; Edward Francis; John Emmett; Rose G; Ann Elizabeth; Michael Joseph