100 Years ago in West Jefferson
Nov. 1, 1912
Madison County Democrat — The West Jefferson Home News has this to say of the organization of the West Jefferson Oil and Gas Company.
A charter was issued this week to the West Jefferson Oil and Gas Company with a capital stock of $10,000.
The following citizens constitute the board of directors: Owen Harbage, C. A. Smith, T. C. Gregg, Jacob Martin, R. C. Millikin, H. F. Jackson, Myron A. Silver, P. M. Gregg, David R. Sidner, John Murray and H. G. Putnam.
Leases have been obtained of territory in the vicinity and more will be taken up before drilling is started. There has long been a belief in the minds of many that oil and gas deposits underlay this territory and many indications of their presence is cited by old settlers and those familiar with the character of this country.
Only a few years ago in sinking a well on what is now the Hill Heirs Farm, a flow of gas was encountered that burned for several days and finally it was necessary to case it off before completing the well. No organized effort has been done heretofore to develop this territory.
This matter was taken up by ex-mayor H. G. Putnam a few months ago and he has since been quietly taking leases, and his effort terminated in the organizations of the local company this week. It is gratifying to note that the enterprise is being financed by local capital and being controlled by the committee of businessmen and capitalist as evidenced by the board of directors.
Part II
The Madison Press, May 17, 1953 — Mayor Homer Braithwaite, in an effort to make a complete and economical clean up on trash and rubbish in and around the West Jefferson community, has asked all residents to help cooperate by calling 8-8332 or 8-8323 and arrange for the city truck to pick up refuse. The annual clean up is under way, Mayor Braithwaite said, and every effort is being made to make the drive a success. In the interest of each and every one of you, and to help speed up the removal of trash, it would help immeasurably if you and your neighbors would try to consolidate your service calls, this reducing the number of trips. Let’s all get together and complete this important undertaking.
— Waitress wanted, experience not necessary. Good starting pay, best of working conditions. Apply at Martin’s Restaurant, West Jefferson, Ohio.
— Mrs. Albert Gregg was hostess for the meeting of the Ladies’ Nite Bridge Club, at her home on West Main Street, Wednesday evening. Playing with the club were its two newest members, Mrs. S. C. Baber and Mrs. Robert R. Richards. Prizes were awarded to Mrs. Richards, Mrs. D. N. Richeson Sr., and Mrs. Conklin Jackson.
— The West Jefferson chapter of the Eastern Star will meet Tuesday, May 19, at 8 p.m. Mrs. Herbert Kell, worthy matron is asking that members make an effort to be present on time.
— The Darby Valley 4-H Club held its third meeting at the home of Donald and Lester Denton on May 4. Donald Denton gave a demonstration on making rope halters. There was a discussion on making money and what we could do toward helping our school. Refreshments were served. Ronald Howard, news reporter.
