A family story is proven! Many years ago, I was told a similar story by two older relatives. Last night I found the proof of the story. The story was that my Great Granduncle Louis F. Slaker was so important with the Omaha railroad (Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha Railway) to have his own private railroad car. I have researched and documented much about the Slaker (Schleicher) family in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, California, Washington and other places. Louis served the railroad in many capacities, including several division supervisory roles. Louis’ sister Emma Slaker Stuart is one of my paternal great grandmothers. Louis is usually found as L. F. Slaker.
Newspapers in many localities reports railroad activities and also local news related to railroad personnel. It’s been a great way to follow other Slaker and Stuart family members through their movements in Wisconsin and Minnesota as they worked at various railroad jobs. L. F. Slaker appeared more than other family members due to his job level.
Earlier tonight I found that aforementioned proof. A local news item in one newspaper mentioned his private railroad car. I also found other mentions of this car, visiting family, job changes, vacations, and more in local news columns.
Worthington Advance [MN], 24 February 1905, page 5, column 2
The full article newspaper can be viewed at the Library of Congress’ Chronicling America website.
© 2014, Paula Stuart-Warren. All rights reserved.
Thank you for the kind comments, ladies. Dana, I look forward to meeting you at GRIP.
Nice! I heard you speak a little about railroad records on the Genealogy Guys podcast. My great grandfather was a railroad conductor in Pennsylvania and I don’t have any records of it.
Thanks for also posting on your blog about where we can buy audios of your lectures. I’m going to buy that lecture and see if I can uncover some records!
P.S. I just signed up for your course at GRIPitt and am really excited about it! See you in July!
Congrats on finding the proof you’ve been seeking for so long, Paula!! How wonderful when a family story is confirmed. Can’t wait to hear more about the details of your discovery!