Came West to Homestead
NearGothenburg in 1879,
When 13 Years of Age

Elmer Lincoln Peckham, 86, a prominent resident of Scotts Bluff county, passed away at his home at Haig, Nebr., Thursday, June 25, after an extended illness. Funeral services were conducted at Mitchell by Rev. Lawrence Dry of the Federated church and interment was in Mitchell Valley cemetery.

Mr. Peckham was born August 26, 1866, at Richland Center, Wisconsin, the son of Joshua and Ann Peckham. When he was 13 years of age, a company of his friends and relatives left Wisconsin via covered wagon for Nebraska, and his family located 7 miles southwest of Gothenburg. His old home built there by this pioneer family is still maintained by a grandson of Ann and Joshua Peckham.

May 1, 1892, he was married to Allie Soules, and they also made their home at “Pine Park Farm” near Gothenburg until they moved to Haig in 1915. He carried on extensive farming and ranching operations there and made during his long life a host of steadfast friends from all walks of life.

He is survived by his wife, his daughter Gladys Mansfield of Miami, Florida, and a son, Guy, at home. Also by two granddaughters, Mrs. Helen Kivella of Redwood City, Calif., and Mrs. Virginia Ringer of Grand Island, and five great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends coming from a distance to attend his funeral were: Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Mansfield, Miami, Florida; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Rinder, Grand Island; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Kivella, Nancy and Judy, Redwood City, Calif.; Mrs. Zella Holcomb, Denver; Mrs. Mamie Boettcher, Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Lattimer, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kapper and son, Wellfleet; Mrs. Cyrus Tharp and John Ewing, Gering; Mr. and Mrs. Walter Trimble, Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Peckham and Mary Lou, Mrs. Mary Soules and Mr. and Mrs. Jas. S. Clark, of Gothenburg.

The Gothenburg Times, Thursday, July 2, 1953, page 1