Hardiman Family
Compiled and Edited by Michael R.Reilly
Last Revised 09/28/2005
Descendants of Richard Hardiman
Generation No. 1
1.
RICHARD1HARDIMANwas born Abt. 1813 in Wittersham, Kent, England (Source: 1861 England Census,age 48.), and died Jun 1877 in Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source: England andWales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record, Deaths, vol. 2a.). He marriedDINAHAUSTIN(Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record,Marriages, vol. 5.) Jun 1838 in Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source: England andWales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record, Marriages, vol. 5.). She wasborn Abt. 1809 in Snave, Kent, England (Source: 1861 England Census, age 52.).
More About R
ICHARDHARDIMAN:
Occupation: 1861, Shepherd
Residence: 1861, Canterbury, Canterbury, Kent, England
More About R
ICHARDHARDIMANand DINAHAUSTIN:
Marriage: Jun 1838, Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source: England and Wales,Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record, Marriages, vol. 5.)
Children of R
ICHARDHARDIMANand DINAHAUSTINare:
2. i. ISOBEL DINAH
2 HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1839, Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England; d. Abt. Oct 1910, Old Romney, Kent, England.
ii. GEORGE HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1841, Brenzett, Old Romney, Kent, England (Source: 1861 England Census, age 20.); d. Mar 1886, Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record, Deaths, vol. 2a.).
Notes for GEORGE HARDIMAN:
George may have traveled to America to visit his brothers then returned to England.
Name: George Hardiman
Arrival Date: 26 Aug 1871
Estimated Birth Year: 1842
Age: 29
Gender: Male
Port of Departure: Liverpool, England
Destination: United States of America
Place of Origin: England
Ship Name: Calabria
Port of Arrival: New York
Line: 38
Microfilm Roll: 347
List Number: 842
More About GEORGE HARDIMAN:
Occupation: 1861, Shepherd
Residence 1: 1881, North Lade House, Lydd, Kent, England
Residence 2: 1871, Canterbury, Canterbury, Kent, England
iii. FLORA HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1843, Brenzett, Old Romney, Kent, England (Source: 1861 England Census, age 18.); d. Mar 1876 (Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983 Record, deaths, vol. 2b.); m. FREDERICK ALFRED REEVE, Jun 1870, Rye, Kent, England (Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983, Marriages, vol. 2b.).
More About FREDERICK REEVE and FLORA HARDIMAN:
Marriage: Jun 1870, Rye, Kent, England (Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index: 1837-1983, Marriages, vol. 2b.)
3. iv. STEPHEN (HARDMAN) HARDIMAN, b. 04 Dec 1844, Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England; d. Bet. 16 Jul – 10 Aug 1931, Lived with son Harry, in Merton, until his death.
4. v. ISAIAH (HARDMAN) HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1847, Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England; d. Mar 1936.
Generation No. 2
2.
ISOBELDINAH2HARDIMAN(RICHARD1)(Source: Brian Hunt, Email 8/1/05, Isobel is 2nd Great Grandmother to Mr. BrianHunt.) was born Abt. 1839 in Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England, anddied Abt. Oct 1910 in Old Romney, Kent, England. She married JAMESARTERAbt. 1860, son of THOMASARTHURand ANNSTEED.He was born 18 Oct 1835 in Ruckinge, Kent, England (Source: Brian Hunt.), anddied Mar 1907 in Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source: England and Wales, CivilRegistration Index: 1837-1983 Record, Deaths, vol. 2a.).
More About I
SOBELDINAHHARDIMAN:
Baptism: 30 Jun 1839, St. Eanswith, Brenzett, Kent (Source: Brian Hunt.)
Burial: Oct 1910, St. Clement, Old Romney, Kent, England (Source: BrianHunt.)
Residence: 1851, Newchurch, Kent, England (Source: Brian Hunt.)
More About J
AMESARTERand ISOBELHARDIMAN:
Marriage: Abt. 1860
Children of I
SOBELHARDIMANand JAMESARTERare:
i. EDWARD
3 ARTER, b. Abt. 1860, New Romney, Kent, England; d. Abt. 01 Dec 1944, Summit Hospital, Waukesha, Wisconsin (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Nov 29, 1944 and Dec 6, 1944.).
Notes for EDWARD ARTER:
Edward/Theodore/Ted Arter may have been listed as Ed H. Arter,
departing Liverpool, Eng., then Queenstown, Ireland, arriving New York on
August 15, 1881, est. birth year is 1859; the ship was the City of Chester.
This would match him telling Sussex village folks here about the Great
Snow Storm of 1884.
More About EDWARD ARTER:
Baptism: 20 Aug 1860, St. Nicholas, New Romney, Kent England; Baptism number: 176 (Source: Brian Hunt.)
Occupation: 1881, Agricultural labourer
ii. MARY ANN ARTER, b. Abt. 1861, Ivychurch, Kent, England.
iii. ELIZABETH ARTER, b. Abt. 1863, Rye, Sussex, England.
iv. RICHARD HARDIMAN ARTER, b. Abt. 1865, Rye, Sussex, England; d. 1960, Etchinghill, Kent, England.
v. JAMES ARTER, b. Abt. 1868, Maidstone, Kent, England; d. 11 Jan 1890, Lydd Railway Station, Lydd, Kent, England; m. EMMA HARRIET HICKMAN.
More About JAMES ARTER:
Burial: Jan 1890, St. Clement, Old Romney, Kent, England
vi. ISABEL DINAH ARTER, b. Abt. 1869, Maidstone, Kent, England; d. 02 Feb 1957, Hythe, Kent, England.
vii. THOMAS ARTER, b. Abt. 1872, Maidstone, Kent, England; d. 20 Apr 1921, Sussex, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Notes for THOMAS ARTER:
According to Thomas’ obit, Thomas has been a resident of Sussex for 29 years, indicating his arrival about 1890-1892.
viii. FRANK ARTER, b. Abt. 1875, Maidstone, Kent, England.
ix. GEORGE ARTER, b. Abt. 1877, Maidstone, Kent, England; d. 02 Jan 1953.
x. STEPHEN ARTER, b. Abt. 1879, Old Romney, Kent, England; d. Abt. 1939, Willesden, England.
3.
STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2HARDIMAN(RICHARD1)was born 04 Dec 1844 in Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England (Source:1880 Federal Census, age 34. Waukesha Freeman 12/8/1927 article – he was 82 yrsold, celebrated birthday on Dec 4, 1927.England and Wales, Civil RegistrationIndex: 1837-1983 Record gives date of December 1844..), and died Bet. 16 Jul -10 Aug 1931 in Lived with son Harry, in Merton, until his death. He married ANN?.She was born Abt. 1847 in England.
Notes for S
TEPHEN(HARDMAN)HARDIMAN:
Stephen and Isaiah arrived together coming from Ireland but of Englishdescent (the Episcopalian religion). Original name Hardman or Hardiman?
New York Passenger Lists, 1851-1891
Name: Stephen Hardman
Arrival Date: 12 Jun 1871
Age: 26
Gender: Male
Port of Departure: Liverpool, England
Destination: United States of America
Place of Origin: Ireland
Occupation: Butcher
Ship Name: City Of Antwerp
Port of Arrival: New York
Line: 51
Microfilm Roll: 344
List Number: 526
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Romney Marsh
Created 1st July 1837.
Sub-districts : Lydd; New Romsey.
GRO volumes : V (1837-51); 2a (1852-1930).
Blackmanstone, Brenzett, Brookland, Burmarsh, Dymchurch, Eastbridge,Fairfield, Hope All Saints, Ivychurch, Lydd, Midley, Newchurch, New Romney, OldRomney, Orgarswick, St. Mary in the Marsh, Snargate, Snave, West Hythe.
More About S
TEPHEN(HARDMAN)HARDIMAN:
Emigration: 12 Jun 1871, Liverpool, England to New York
Occupation: 1861, Laborer
Residence 1: 15 Oct 1914, A. H. Fromm of Merton has moved to the Hardimanfarm. Mr. Hardiman has moved to his place on the Pewaukee road, adjoining theSalsich farm. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Oct. 15, 1914.)
Residence 2: 1861, Old Romney, Kent, England
Residence 3: 13 Oct 1910, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman spend time withdaughter May Brown. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Oct. 13, 1910.)
Children of S
TEPHENHARDIMANand ANN?are:
5. i. GEORGE
3 HARDIMAN.
6. ii. ISABELLE “BELLE” HARDIMAN.
iii. IDA M. HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1875 (Source: 1880 Federal Census, age 4.).
iv. FLORA B. HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1877 (Source: 1880 Federal Census, age 2.).
7. v. WALTER S. HARDIMAN, b. Abt. 1879.
vi. RICHARD “DICK” HARDIMAN, b. 08 May 1881; d. Oct 1962, Illinois.
Notes for RICHARD “DICK” HARDIMAN:
Dick Hardiman, Chicago, guest of sister Mrs. Everette Brown, May 5, 1910
8. vii. HARRY STEPHEN HARDIMAN, b. 27 Jan 1886; d. Jun 1979, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
viii. MAY (MAE) HARDIMAN, b. 11 Oct 1890; d. Dec 1965; m. EVERETT BROWN, 04 Dec 1901, St. Alban’s Epicopal Church, Sussex; d. Oct 1917, Lake Keesus, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Notes for MAY (MAE) HARDIMAN:
The marriage of May (Mae) Hardiman and Everett Brown was solemnized at St. Alban’s church, Wednesday evening , Dec. 4 (1901). Rev. L. P. Holmes officiated. The young people are well known and a host of firends extended congratulations. Waukesha Freeman, December 5, 1901
Notes for EVERETT BROWN:
Drowned in Lake Keesus
Everett Brown of Sussex Meets Death While on Fishing and Hunting Expedition
Everett Brown of Sussex was drowned in Lake Keesus, seven miles from his home, Sunday evening about six o’clock. The unfortunate man was subject to epilleptic fits and one came upon him while he was out alone in a boat. His two brother-in-laws, Walter Hardiman and Will Palin, of Milwaukee, who accompanied him on his hunting and fishing expedition, were on the shore, no more than 40 feet away, but when Brown fell from the boat into the water they were unable to render him any assistance. His body did not rise and was not found until the following morning, when it was taken from the water about nine o’clock. Seachers had been out all night. The water was quite deep at the point where the drowning occurred. Mr. Brown was married but had
no children.
Cornoner Hill, who was called in the case, will hold an inquest at Sussex this (thursday) morning at ten o’clock.
Funeral services were held at the residence at two o’clock Wednesday afternoon. Waukesha Freeman, October 17, 1907
More About EVERETT BROWN:
Residence: 1906, Sussex, Lisbon, Waukesha, Wisconsin
More About EVERETT BROWN and MAY HARDIMAN:
Marriage: 04 Dec 1901, St. Alban’s Epicopal Church, Sussex
Minister: Rev. L. P. Holmes
4.
ISAIAH(HARDMAN)2HARDIMAN(RICHARD1)was born Abt. 1847 in Brenzett, (Old) Romney Marsh, Kent, England, and died Mar1936. He married ?.She died Bet. 10 – 22 Jan 1891.
Notes for I
SAIAH(HARDMAN)HARDIMAN:
Merton – Isaiah Hardiman, formerly of Merton, died at the county homeWednesday. Mr. Hardiman, who was born in England, came to the United States inhis youth (with his brother Stephen). He spent most of his life around Merton,and Sussex. He is survived by one son (only child), Henry Hardiman of Waukesha;five nephews and two nieces. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday atthe Masonic temple, Sussex. He was a member of the Ashlar Masonic Lodge for 57years. WF, Wednesday, March 18, 1936
His wife died abt Jan 15, 1891
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New York Passenger Lists, 1851-1891
Name: Isaiah Hardman
Arrival Date: 12 Jun 1871
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Port of Departure: Liverpool, England
Destination: United States of America
Place of Origin: Ireland
Occupation: Butcher
Ship Name: City Of Antwerp
Port of Arrival: New York
Line: 50
Microfilm Roll: 344
List Number: 526
More About I
SAIAH(HARDMAN)HARDIMAN:
Occupation: 1880, Butcher
More About
?:
Burial: St. Alban’s Cemetery (God’s Acre), Sussex, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Child of I
SAIAHHARDIMANand ?is:
9. i. HENRY R.
3 HARDIMAN, b. 11 Jul 1887; d. Oct 1973.
Generation No. 3
5.
GEORGE3HARDIMAN(STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)He married ANN?(Source: Waukesha Freeman, Aug. 23, 1917; Note: this may be a different womanand George Hardiman, since the couple was supposed to be living in Watertown in1927. Source: WF April 21, 1927.) Mar 1917. She was born 25 Nov 1893, and diedFeb 1980 in Watertown, Jefferson, Wisconsin (Source: Waukesha Freeman,8/23/1917.).
Notes for G
EORGEHARDIMAN:
George H.’s 24th wedding anniversary abt March 30, 1941
More About G
EORGEHARDIMAN:
Residence: 21 Apr 1927, Watertown, Wisconsin (Source: Waukesha Freeman, April21, 1927.)
More About G
EORGEHARDIMANand ANN?:
Marriage: Mar 1917
Children of G
EORGEHARDIMANand ANN?are:
i. RUBY
4 HARDIMAN.
More About RUBY HARDIMAN:
Education: Sep 1939, Starting Junior yr at Univ of Wis. Madison, after two yrs at Northwestern at Watertown, Wisconsin (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Sept. 20, 1939.)
ii. JOYCE HARDIMAN.
Notes for JOYCE HARDIMAN:
More About JOYCE HARDIMAN:
Education: Jun 1941, Watertown High School, class of June 1941, as salutatorian. Waukesha Freeman, June 18, 1941
6.
ISABELLE”BELLE”3HARDIMAN(STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)She married WILLIAM”WILL”PALIN.He was born 1878 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Source: 1910 Federal Census, age 31.).
More About I
SABELLE”BELLE”HARDIMAN:
Education: 1896, Normal School in Whitewater
Residence: Dec 1901, Couple had daughter and lived in Milwaukee
Notes for W
ILLIAM”WILL”PALIN:
Will Palin of California a caller in Sussex. Waukesha Freeman, June 18, 1941.
More About W
ILLIAM”WILL”PALIN:
Residence: 1910, Hartland, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Child of I
SABELLEHARDIMANand WILLIAMPALINis:
i. ROSALIE
4 PALIN.
7.
WALTERS.3HARDIMAN(STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born Abt. 1879 (Source: 1880 Federal Census, age 1.). He married EUNACEELSIEWILEDEN,daughter of ALFREDWILEDENand ANGELICABROWN.She was born Abt. 1878.
Notes for W
ALTERS.HARDIMAN:
Three young men were arraigned in municipal court here today charged withstealing a flock of 30 chickens from Walter Hardiman, town of Lisbon famer. WFApril 21, 1932
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Waukesha Freeman, November 6, 1935 – first mention of the “HardimanOils”; a bowling team playing in Pewaukee’s Bowling Club.
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Ray Schroeder, who has driven truck for the Hardiman Oil company since theirgoing into business several years ago, has severd his connection with thecompany and has accepted a position with the Pate Oil company of Waukesha.Waukesha Freeman, August 21, 1940
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The “Blue Shadows” orchestra played “Let Me Call YouSweetheart” at Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman’s 40th Anniversary at St.Alban’s Guild Hall on Sept. 26, 1940 at 8:30p.m.
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Walter had his wallet stolen at the Wisconsin Council of Agriculture in LaCrosse along with three other men. Waukesha Freeman, November 19, 1941
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Hardiman Oil company named class A tire inspection center by OPA. WaukeshaFreeman, December 23, 1942
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Hardiman Oil company entertained 18 employees and ? with a steak dinner atBrook hotel. Waukesha Freeman, November 24, 1943
More About W
ALTERS.HARDIMAN:
Life Events: Oct 1929, Had quantity of potatoes stolen at night; thieveshitting apple trees and potatoes in area. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Oct. 24,1929.)
Masonic 1: 30 Dec 1920, Elected Junior Warden of Ashlar Lodge No. 193, F& A. M.
Masonic 2: 14 Apr 1921, President of Beet Growers Association
Membership 1: 1945, Secretary of Lisbon Mutual Insurance Company
Membership 2: a director of the Golden Guerney cooperative
Membership 3: Member of executive board of the Wisconsin Council ofAgriculture.
Membership 4: Jan 1929, Elected director of Lisbon Mutual Insurance company(Source: Waukesha Freeman, Jan. 17, 1929.)
Membership 5: Jul 1935, Elected Sussex school (board/PTA?) treasurer (Source:Waukesha Freeman, July 10, 1935.)
Occupation 1: 06 Jul 1938, Term “Hardiman Oil Company” first seenin Waukesha Freeman newspaper.
Occupation 2: May 1939, The Hardiman Oil company has moved to the PaulSchroeder Garage across from the bank. The Sinclair Oil company is takingpossession of the building vacated by the Hardiman Oil company. (Source:Waukesha Freeman, May 3, 1939.)
Political 1: 1919, Pewaukee Town Clerk
Political 2: 1920, Town of Lisbon Treasurer
Residence 1: Apr 1900, Living in South Milwaukee (Source: Waukesha Freeman,April 19, 1900.)
Residence 2: Sep 1906, Purchased house of James Elliott, opposite thecreamery. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Sept. 6, 1906.)
Residence 3: 24 Sep 1908, William Howard has rented Walter Hardiman’sresidence (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Sept. 24, 1908.)
Notes for E
UNACEELSIEWILEDEN:
The Grandmother’s Chorus, members, Mrs. Walter Hardiman, Mrs. Milo. LeoHoward is the director. Waukesha Freeman, June 26, 1940 Also member of The WestSussex group of the Home Economics Club (Mrs. Walter)
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WOMAN companion in exchange for room and board. Write or phone Mrs. ElsieHardiman, Sussex. Waukesha Freeman, July 7, 1952
More About E
UNACEELSIEWILEDEN:
Membership: a member of Past Matron’s club
Children of W
ALTERHARDIMANand EUNACEWILEDENare:
10. i. PERCY S.
4 HARDIMAN, b. 07 Jun 1909; d. Apr 1987.
ii. RALPH M. HARDIMAN, b. 10 Sep 1902 (Source: Waukesha 0301 000233.); d. 1965; m. LAURA SHOCKLEY, 15 Aug 1931, First Reformed Church, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Notes for RALPH M. HARDIMAN:
The marriage of Miss Laura Shockley, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Shockley, Waukesha, to Ralph Hardiman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman, Sussex, occurred Saturday, August, 15, at 4 o’clock p.m. at the parsonage of the First Reformed church, Rev. H. G. Settlage performing the service.
The bride wore a green net dress with a corresponding hat and carried a bouquet of pink roses and larkspur. She was attended by Kathryn Chapman, Waukesha, who was attired in peach satin with hat to match and carried a bouquet of peach roses and larkspur.
The groom was attended by his brother, Percy Hardiman, Sussex.
After the ceremony a dinner was given by the bride’s parents at their home for immediate families. After a trip through the northern part of the state and Canada, the couple will make their home at Sussex. Waukesha Freeman, August 20, 1931
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Appointed tire inspector by Waukesha county rationing board for Sussex. Waukesha Freeman, March 18, 1942
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Ralph named assistant on Waukesha County implement dealer’s salvage drive covering Town of Lisbon. Waukesha Freeman, August 12, 1942
More About RALPH M. HARDIMAN:
Residence 1: 15 Sep 1937, Bought lot on eastside of Sussex (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Sept 15, 1937.)
Residence 2: 23 Mar 1938, Moved into new house on Sussex eastside. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, March 23, 1938.)
Notes for LAURA SHOCKLEY:
Parents and sister living in Decatur, Il. Waukesha Freeman, Dec. 31, 1941 Has a sister, Mrs. Benish, living in Prairie du Chien.
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Another sister is Mrs. Harry Hansen of Decatur, IL.
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Had an appendectomy at Waukesha on Friday. Waukesha Freeman, January 24, 1945
More About RALPH HARDIMAN and LAURA SHOCKLEY:
Marriage: 15 Aug 1931, First Reformed Church, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Minister: Rev. H. G. Settlage
11. iii. WALTER MILO HARDIMAN, b. 1905; d. May 1962.
8.
HARRYSTEPHEN3HARDIMAN(STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 27 Jan 1886 (Source: SSDI), and died Jun 1979 in Pewaukee, Waukesha,Wisconsin. He married BLANCHECAPSTICKBROWN25 Nov 1914 in At their home, daughter of ROBERTBROWNand MARYTAYLOR.She was born Abt. 1889 (Source: , age 31.).
Notes for H
ARRYSTEPHENHARDIMAN:
Waukesha Freeman Nov 26, 1914 – Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brown, Merton, haveissued invitations to the marriage of their daughter, Blanche Capstick, and Mr.Harry Stephen Hardiman, on Wednesday evening, November 25th, at 8 o’clock, intheir home.
The marriage of Miss Blanche Brown and Harry Hardiman occurred Wednesdayevening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brown, in the presence of about fortyrelatives. Rev. Mr. Shawger officiating. The bride wore a handsome dress ofwhite shadow lace over cream messaline with lace and pearl trimmings. Hersister, Miss Ruth Brown, the maid of honor, wore white silk, with lacetrimmings. Miss Anna Volkman, Hartland, the bridesmaid, wore a pale pink chinasilk. George Hardiman, Hartland, brother of the groom, was best man and HarryBartlett groomman. Mrs. A. T. Kretsch played the wedding music. A host offriends extend good wishes to the young couple who, after a short wedding trip(Canada), will be at home on the Robert Brown farm after Dec. 15th. WaukeshaFreeman, December 10, 1914.
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Merton – On Sunday, December., 4, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hardiman surprised theformer’s father with a party of relatives, in honor of his 82nd birthdayanniversary. The following guests were present: Isaiah Hardiman of Waukesha,brother; Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman and two sons, Ralph and Percy; Mr. andMrs. Milo Hardiman of Sussex; Mr. and Mrs. George Hardiman and children, Rubyand Joyce, of Watertown; Mrs Belle Palin and daughter, Rosalle, and WilliamSmith of Hartland; Harry Hardiman and family made the number twenty. A turkeydinner was served. Instrumental and vocal music made the day pass pleasantly andMr. Hardiman had the pleasure of entertaining his children and grandchildren onhis 82nd birthday. Waukesha Freeman, Dec. 8, 1927.
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Harry Hardiman had 35 chickens stolen the past week by parties near Platt.The thieves took the chickens to hartford and sold them at a meat market theproprietor of which mistusted something was wrong and sent for a sheriff. Theguilty ones confessed when taken to the home of Mr. Hardiman with the chickens,so all is well with him but the guilty will not fare so well. WF April 14, 1932.
More About B
LANCHECAPSTICKBROWN:
Membership: Friendship Birthday club
More About H
ARRYHARDIMANand BLANCHEBROWN:
Anniversary: Waukesha Freeman Nov. 29, 1939 Their 25th.
Marriage: 25 Nov 1914, At their home
Minister: Rev. Mr. Shawger
Children of H
ARRYHARDIMANand BLANCHEBROWNare:
12. i. DORA BLANCHE
4 HARDIMAN, b. 11 Jun 1918, Waukesha County; d. 28 Nov 1990, Marinette, Marinette, Wisconsin.
ii. NORMAN HARDIMAN.
Notes for NORMAN HARDIMAN:
Pct. Norman Hardiman, son of Mr. and Mrs Harry Hardiman, Merton, called on relatives and friends in this community during his weeks furlough after training at Camp Hood, Texas. He will report to Fort Ord, in the west for further assignment on March 4th. WF Feb 28, 1945; left for army induction abt Oct 25, 1944.
More About NORMAN HARDIMAN:
Military service: Oct 1944, Norman left for induction into army. Waukesha Freeman, Oct 25, 1944
Occupation: Oct 1939, Employed by Oliver Prahl at his Standard Service station on Hwy 74. Vincent White is the attendant at his Pewaukee station.
iii. LESLIE “LESSIE” “LESTER” H. HARDIMAN (Source: Waukesha Freeman, “Lessie” term used Dec 15, 1932.), b. Jan 1920.
Notes for LESLIE “LESSIE” “LESTER” H. HARDIMAN:
Leslie Hardiman attended the national airplane meet at Chicago last week where he exhibited some of his [model?] airplanes.
Waukesha Freeman, July 10, 1940
9.
HENRYR.3HARDIMAN(ISAIAH(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 11 Jul 1887 (Source: Waukesha D0006 012641.), and died Oct 1973(Source: SSDI.). He married ?COOK,daughter of FREDCOOK.
Notes for H
ENRYR.HARDIMAN:
More About H
ENRYR.HARDIMAN:
Occupation 1: 20 Mar 1913, Left last week to accept a position in Milwaukeewith a bridge works concern. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Mar 20, 1913.)
Occupation 2: Apr 1917, Working for Walter Hardiman and has moved his familyfrom Milwaukee to the Elmer Bowes’ house. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, WF Apr 26,1917.)
Residence: 31 Oct 1920, 1008 White Rock Ave., Waukesha (Source: WaukeshaFreeman, Oct. 31, 1920.)
Child of H
ENRYHARDIMANand ?COOKis:
13. i. HOWARD R.
4 HARDIMAN, b. 16 Jul 1913; d. 06 Nov 1997, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Generation No. 4
10.
PERCYS.4HARDIMAN(WALTERS.3,STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 07 Jun 1909, and died Apr 1987. He married ADELINEKETTLEWELL30 Jun 1934 in Chapel of Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin, daughter of ?KETTLEWELLand ?.She was born 01 Apr 1909, and died Aug 1987 in Dousman, Waukesha, Wisconsin(Source: SSDI.).
Notes for P
ERCYS.HARDIMAN:
A pretty wedding took place in the Chapel of Ripon College, on Saturdayafternoon, June 30 when Miss Adeline Kettlewell of Berlin became the bride ofPercy Hardiman of this village. Hilas Evans, president of Ripon Collegeperforming the ceremony.
The bride wore a very becoming dress of blue satin, embroidered net over theblue satin, with pale blue suede slippers and large picture hat, and carried acorsage bouquet of sweet peas, ferns and baby breath. Following the ceremony,the bridal party
went to Berlin, where a 6:30 p.m. wedding dinner at the Hotel Whitney wasserved to the immediate families. The bridal couple left for an auto honeymoontrip of several weeks to Glacier and Yellowstone Parks, and the Black Hills.They will make their home in this village where they plan to build a new home inthe near future.
Those who attended the wedding included Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman, Mr. andMrs. Milo hardiman, and Joe Ries. The bride had been teaching in the Sussexschool for the past three years. Waukesha Freeman, July 4, 1934
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At the request of the Cosden Oil company at Pewaukee, the local Cosden Oilcompany, entered the parade at Pewaukee on Labor Day. Percy Hardiman’s oil truckwas decorated and rode in the parade. The first prize however was captured bythe second entry from the local company. Joe Ries, dressed in clothes of afashion worn many years ago, accompanied by Mesdames Walter
Hardiman, Ralph Hardiman and Walter Rosier, also dressed in fashions of longago, drove the vehicle, also of questionable age or make which is often seen onour streets and which is composed of a surrey body and auto chassis. The vehiclewas also appropriately decorated for the occasion. Because of the rain Monday,the crowd was not as large as usual at the parade, but those who were there gavemany cheers at the sight of the ancient picture. Waukesha Freeman, September 5,1934.
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Waukesha Freeman, October 9, 1935 – Bishop Ivins of Milwaukee conductedConfirmation services at St. Alban’s church on Sunday morning. The candidatesincluded: Mr. and Mrs. Percy Hardiman, and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hardiman.
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Mr. and Mrs. Christ Bucher have moved into the Percy Hardiman home acquiredthrough the sale of their farm [near Mapleton] to Mr. Hardiman. WaukeshaFreeman, June 12, 1940
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Percy broke upper part of his foot while operating some machinery on the farmin North Lake. Waukesha freeman, June 4, 1941
More About P
ERCYS.HARDIMAN:
Membership: Mar 1955, Supervisor in the Waukesha County Soil ConservationDistrict. Waukesha Freeman, March 14, 1955
Occupation: May 1939, Apointed Constable of Sussex, that office having beenmad vacant by the moving to Merton of Gilbert Riewe who was elected recently.(Source: Waukesha Freeman, May 3, 1939.)
Residence 1: Jul 1945, North Lake, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Residence 2: 22 Aug 1934, Purchased the home of Mrs. Abbie Bertleson (Source:Waukesha Freeman, August 22, 1934.)
Residence 3: Jun 1940, Mr. and Mrs. Christ Bucher have moved into the PercyHardiman home acquired through the sale of their farm [near Mapleton] to Mr.Hardiman. Waukesha Freeman, June 12, 1940
Residence 4: Jun 1942, Rural Rt. 1, Hartland. Waukesha Freeman, June 24, 1942
More About A
DELINEKETTLEWELL:
Occupation 1: Bet. 1931 – 1934, The bride had been teaching in the Sussexschool for the past three years. (Source: Waukesha Freeman, July 4, 1934.)
Occupation 2: Mar 1939, Working as a substitute teacher at Lannon School(Source: Waukesha Freeman, March 29, 1939.)
More About P
ERCYHARDIMANand ADELINEKETTLEWELL:
Marriage: 30 Jun 1934, Chapel of Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin
Minister: Hilas Evans, President of Ripon College
Children of P
ERCYHARDIMANand ADELINEKETTLEWELLare:
i. DEAN STEPHEN
5 HARDIMAN, b. 26 Aug 1937, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
More About DEAN STEPHEN HARDIMAN:
Baptism (LDS): Abt. 05 Dec 1937, St. Alban’s Church, Sussex, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Birth Information: Weighed 8 lbs.
ii. JO ANNE (JOSEPHINE) HARDIMAN (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Nov. 8, 1939 issue gives her name as Josephine not Jo Anne as when she died.), b. Nov 1939, St. Mary’s Hospital, Milwaukee (Source: Waukesha Freeman, Nov. 8, 1939.); d. Jul 1945, Children’s Hospital, Milwaukee.
Notes for JO ANNE (JOSEPHINE) HARDIMAN:
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Hardiman was baptized Josephine Ann at the morning services at St. Alban’s church on Sunday, the Rev. Parmiter officiating. Mrs. Walter Hardiman was the sponsor. Following the services, Mr. ans Mrs. Percy Hardiman entertained Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman, and Mrs. Adams and daughter, Fay Lucille, of Wauwatosa at a delicious chicken dinner at the Brook hotel. Waukesha Freeman, February 14, 1940
Daughter is called “Joanne”. Waukesha Freeman, August 7, 1940
Funeral services were held at St. Alban’s church Monday afternoon for little Jo Anne Hardiman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Hardiman of North lake. She would have been six years of age in November. She was taken ill about three weeks ago with an almost incurable sickness, and was taken to the Children’s Hospital in MIlwaukee, where everything possible was done for her recovery. A slight improvement the middle of last week raised the hopes of the loving relatives, but on Friday afternoon, death won the battle.
Besides her parents, she is survived by a youonger siste, Harriet, two grandaprents, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman, uncles, aunts and cousins. A brother, Dean, preceded her in death. The Hardiman family are former residents of this village (Sussex). WF July 18, 1945
More About JO ANNE (JOSEPHINE) HARDIMAN:
Burial: St. Alban’s Cemetery (God’s Acre), Sussex, Waukesha, Wisconsin
iii. HARRIET JEAN HARDIMAN, b. 20 Jun 1942, Waukesha Memorial Hospital.
Notes for HARRIET JEAN HARDIMAN:
Harriet Jane baptized at St. Alban’s, at Sunday morning service; also was infant daughter of Frederick Stier. Waukesha Freeman, November 18, 1942
11.
WALTERMILO4HARDIMAN(WALTERS.3,STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 1905, and died May 1962. He married HELENCHRISTINASMITH,daughter of CHARLESGUMM.She was born 22 Jan 1906 (Source: SSDI.), and died 21 Jun 1992.
Notes for W
ALTERMILOHARDIMAN:
Helen Smith Weds Walter Hardiman
Lisbon – A very pretty wedding was solemnized at the SussexMethodist-Episcopal church last Wednesday at 4 p.m. when Miss Helen ChristinaSmith, daughter of Mrs. C. Gumm of this village, became the wife of Milo WalterHardiman, son of Mr. and Mrs Walter M. Hardiman, Lisbon. The Rev. C. Wilkinsonperformed the double ring ceremony. The church was beautifully decorated withferns and cut flowers. The wedding march was played by Miss Irma Linglebach.Thebride wore a gown of white geogette over satin, trimmed with lace. The veil wasembroidered net held with rhinestones and pearls. Miss Merle Stone, Templeton,was the maid of honor and wore a gown of pink taffeta. Miss Hilda Schroeder,Sussex, and Miss Isabelle Felsing, Milwaukee, were bridesmaids and wore gowns ofpale green and yellow taffeta.
Ralph Hardiman, brother of the groom, was best man, and Percy Hardiman andVernon Rosier, Oshkosh, were attendants. Homer Stone and LaVerne Clarey wereushers. Little Kathleen Delany and Betty Engel in peach and blue crepe wereflower girls and carried mixed bouquets. The bride carried a shower bouquet ofwhite roses and babies breath. The attendants carried colored roses.
A reception was held at the Masonic Temple and supper was served to ninety.The couple left Wednesday night on a trip which include Madison, Rice Lake,Tomahawk, and Pine River, Wis., and Port Arthur, Minn. They will be at homeafter September 1st, in their new home in Sussex.
Waukesha Freeman, August 25, 1927
Milo enjoyed two day vacation from milk route. Waukesha Freeman, August 23,1944
More About W
ALTERMILOHARDIMAN:
Burial: Rose Hill Cemetery, Town of Lisbon, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Illness/Accidents: Abt. 17 Dec 1908, Had hand badly crushed in a corn sheller.(Source: Waukesha Freeman, December 17, 1908.)
Membership: Bet. 1955 – 1956, President, Sussex Lions Club
Occupation 1: May 1932, Deputy Sheriff (Source: Waukesha Freeman, May 5,1932.)
Occupation 2: Nov 1940, Manager of Sussex Lannon Stone company. WaukeshaFreeman, November 6, 1940
Occupation 3: Aug 1944, Milo enjoyed two day vacation from milk route.Waukesha Freeman, August 23, 1944
Political 1: Bet. 1928 – 1959, Sussex village Clerk for 31 yrs.
Political 2: Apr 1932, Sussex village treasurer (Source: Waukesha Freeman, WFApril 14, 1932.)
Notes for H
ELENCHRISTINASMITH:
Meeting of the WSCS of the Methodist church held at Mrs. Milo Hardiman ‘shome, helped by mother Mrs. Charles Gumm.
Waukesha Freeman, April 16, 1941
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Went to St. Mary’s in Milwaukee for observation and an operation this week.Waukesha Freeman, May 30, 1945
More About H
ELENCHRISTINASMITH:
Membership 1: 10 Jan 1934, OES meeting – Helen Hardiman
Membership 2: member of the Thursday Afternoon club
Child of W
ALTERHARDIMANand HELENSMITHis:
i. KERYL (CAROL) JEAN
5 HARDIMAN, m. GLEN F. MOODY.
Notes for KERYL (CAROL) JEAN HARDIMAN:
Working as beautician at Duchess Beauty Shop, 267 W. Main St., Waukesha, Phone 3965. Waukesha Freeman, July 21, 1952
—————
Keryl Jean Hardiman Becomes Bride of A/3c Glen F. Moody Sussex Methodist church was the scene at three o’clock toda, of the wedding of Miss Keryl Jean Hardiman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milo Hardiman, Old Mill Lane, Sussex, and A/3c Glen F. Moody, McGhee Tyson airport, Knoxville, Tenn., His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Milton Moody, Elmwood Ave., Sussex. An evening reception will be held at Sussex Community Hall.
The Rev. Edward langdon performed the ceremony, Mrs. Albert Meissner, Merton, was the soloist and Mrs. William Blank, the organist.
White nylon tulle and embroidered nylon lace formed the bridal gown of Miss Hardiman. Lace formed the fitted bodice with a portrait effect on an illusion yoke edged with scallops at the base and snug fitted neckline. Her long lace sleeves tapered to points and the same lace formed wide panels in the full skirt with a sweep. Alace and pleated illusion Juliet cap edged in
pearls held her scalloped rolled edge fingertip veil. She carried a white Bible with a white orchid and lilies of the valley resting on it.
Miss Theodora Van Valin, the bride’s cousin, was her maid of honor. Her blue organza gown, in full length, was in torso mode with abow at the back and folds of the same fabric at the bodice top and over the shoulders. Miss Betty Manke and Miss Karen Fagen, both of Sussex, wore gowns identical to Miss Van Valin’s, while those of the two junior bridesmaids, Harriet Hardiman, the bride’s cousin and Sally Moody, the groom’s sister, were the same style in pink. All the girls wore crowns of white stephanotis and held nosegays of stephanotis and pink rosebuds. Kathleen Blank, the flowergirl,
carried a basket of sweet peas and roses.
Attendants for the groom were Robert Clarey, the best man; Richard Zimmerman, John Reimer and James Van Valin, the ushers. James Marx served as the ring bearer.
Mrs. Hardiman, the bride’s mother wore a blue nylon lace over taffeta with a white hat and accessories. Her corsage was an orchid. Mrs. Moody, the groom’s mother was attired in a gray suit with avocado hat and accessories
and she also wore an orchid.
Both of the young couple are Waukesha High School graduates. The bride is a graduate of the Milwaukee Accredited School of Beauty Culture. They will spend their honeymoon en route to Tennessee where they will make their home temporarily at Maryville. For traveling the young Mrs. Moody has chosen a short sleeved summer ensemble in gray and white frille to wear with white accessories.
Parties for the bride were given by Mrs. Charles DeLany and Mrs. Roman Engel; Miss Karen Fagen, Mrs. Walter hardiman and Mrs. Ralph Hardiman; Dr and Mrs. E. C. Van Valin, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Hardiman. Waukesha Freeman, April, 16, 1955
More About KERYL (CAROL) JEAN HARDIMAN:
Occupation: Jul 1952, Working as beautician at Duchess Beauty Shop, 267 W. Main St., Waukesha, Phone 3965. Waukesha Freeman, July 21, 1952
12.
DORABLANCHE4HARDIMAN(HARRYSTEPHEN3,STEPHEN(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 11 Jun 1918 in Waukesha County, and died 28 Nov 1990 in Marinette,Marinette, Wisconsin (Source: Ancestry.com “Carl’s Tree 3/23/2002.). Shemarried ROBERTERLANDOPSAHL(Source: Ancestry.com “Carl’s Tree 3/23/2002.) 28 Jun 1939 in BaptistChurch, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Wisconsin. He was born 09 Jan 1918.
Notes for D
ORABLANCHEHARDIMAN:
Pretty Wedding Held at Church in Pewaukee
The Baptist church of Pewaukee was filled to overflowing Wednesday eveningfor a wedding unusually beautiful in all its appointments, when Miss DoraHardiman and Robert Opsahl spoke their nuptial vows. tall baskets of gardenflowers were placed in profusion about the church, which was lighted by the softglow of many lighted candles and the breeze from two huge but quietly-drivenelectric fans completed the garden atomsphere. Mrs. Alvin Kraetsch, an aunt ofthe bride, presided at the piano and Ernest Tempero, an uncle, sang “AtDawning” and “I Love You Truly”. At the first notes of thewedding march, the ushers came down the aisle and stood at attention. Rev. MaieEllis, the officiating minister, appeared from the front of the church
and awaited the wedding party. Miss Helen Opsahl, sister of the groom, cameslowly down the middle aisle on the arm of Lester Hardiman, brother of thebride. Miss Opsahl’s dress was of aqua chiffon, floor length, and she carried anarm bouquet. As they reached their places, Miss Evelyn Bartlett, maid of honor,and Charles Opsahl, best man, preceded the bridal couple.
Miss Bartlett’s gown was of peach chiffon and her bouquet of blue and whiteflowers. The bride entered on the arm of her groom and was lovely in thetraditional attire of white chiffon gown and flowing veil, caught from the facewith orange blossoms.
The double ring ceremony was used, following the Presbyterian form ofservice, and the procession left the church to the strains of the wedding marchfrom “Lohengrin”. Sixty relatives and the Rev. Maie Ellis were guestsat the reception following the ceremony, at the home of the bride’s parents, Mr.and Mrs. Harry Hardiman, of Merton. Out-of-town guests were Mrs. D. Opsahl, Mrs.Clara Simon, Mrs. Edward Peterson, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Topal, Marinette; Mr.and Mrs. Percy Hardiman, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hardiman, Mr. and Mrs. RalphHardiman, Mr. and Mrs. Milo Hardiman and daughter, Sussex; Mrs. Belle Hardimanand daughter, Rosalie, Hartland; Mr. and Mrs. George Hardiman and daughters,Ruby and Joyce, Watertown; Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Kraetsch and family, Mr. and Mrs.Ernest Tempero and family, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bartlett. The spacious Hardimanhome was decorated with flowers and streamers of the bridal colors. The numerousgifts were displayed in two upstairs rooms. Mr. and Mrs. Opsahl will spendseveral weeks at the home of the bride’s parents and will locate in early fallnear Pewaukee.
Waukesha Freeman, July 5, 1939
More About D
ORABLANCHEHARDIMAN:
Residence: Jul 1940, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Opsahl live in North Lake. WaukeshaFreeman, July 3, 1940
More About R
OBERTOPSAHLand DORAHARDIMAN:
Marriage: 28 Jun 1939, Baptist Church, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Children of D
ORAHARDIMANand ROBERTOPSAHLare:
i. LIVING1
5 OPSAHL.
ii. LIVING2 OPSAHL.
13.
HOWARDR.4HARDIMAN(HENRYR.3,ISAIAH(HARDMAN)2,RICHARD1)was born 16 Jul 1913 (Source: SSDI.), and died 06 Nov 1997 in Pewaukee,Waukesha, Wisconsin. He married JOSEPHINEMARIEKELSO(Source: Waukesha Freeman, Wednesday, January 13, 1937.), daughter of JOSEPHKELSOand ETHEL?.She was born 14 Jul 1917, and died Nov 1991 in Pewaukee, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Notes for H
OWARDR.HARDIMAN:
Josephine Kelso
Howard Hardiman
Are Married
The marriage of Miss Josephine Kelso, daughter of Mrs. Ethel Kelso, 633 NorthSt. (Waukesha), and Howard R. Hardiman, son of Mr.s and Mrs. Henry Hardiman, 319Bidwell Ave., occurred Saturday, Dec 2 at St. Joseph’s rectory at 3 p.m. withRev. William Macklin officiating.
The bride wore a costume wool suit of blackberry wine shade trimmed withmartin fur with accessories to match. Her corsage was of tea roses and sweetpeas.
Miss Virginia Kruck, Waukesha, as the bride’s only attendant wore adressmaker wool suit of fostoria green trimmed with leopard fur and matchingaccessories. Her corsage was of gardenias.
Everett Kelso, the bride’s brother, was best man.
The immediate families and a few close friends witnessed the ceremony andwere later entertained at dinner at 6:00 o’clock at the Moor Baths. In theevening a reception for 150 guests was held at the Midway Gardens.
The bride and groom will reside at 633 North St. The bride is a graduate ofWaukesha High School and is employed at the Enterprise milinary department. Thegroom, a graduate of Waukesha High School, is employed at the Spring CityPattern Works.
Misses Myra Daggett and Virginia Kruck, recently entertained at showers inhonor of the bride. Waukesha Freeman, December 6, 1939
More About H
OWARDR.HARDIMAN:
Occupation: Jan 1937, Spring City Pattern Works (Source: Waukesha Freeman,Wednesday, January 13, 1937.)
Residence: Nov 1939, 329 Bidwell Ave., Waukesha
Notes for J
OSEPHINEMARIEKELSO:
Mr. and Mrs. Howard hardiman, children David and Sandra Jo, all of Pewaukee.Waukesha Freeman, August 10, 1954
More About J
OSEPHINEMARIEKELSO:
Occupation: Jan 1937, Employed at Gamble Stores (Source: Waukesha Freeman,Wednesday, January 13, 1937.)
Residence: Nov 1939, 633 North St., Waukesha
Children of H
OWARDHARDIMANand JOSEPHINEKELSOare:
i. DAVID
5 HARDIMAN.
ii. SANDRA JO HARDIMAN.
Hardiman Oil Company
Thefollowing was written by Fred H. Keller for the Sussex Sun, Tuesday,Sept. 14, 1976
Itstarted out as a hot day Tuesday, July 24, 1951. At 8 a.m. it was 79 degrees andby noon it was 86. The temperature went up from there. High humidity made it allthe more unbearable.
Duringthe mid-afternoon a company truck, driven by 18-year old Robert Schlei, wasmaking a routine stop at the Hardiman Oil Company’s fuel storage area near theNorthwestern tracks in Sussex. In 1951 there was no Horizon or Olympic Homessubdivisions to the south or west of the storage area. The tank storage area wasbasically the same as it is today [1976], except there was only five 12,000gallon upright tanks, plus a pump house, a small warehouse, miscellaneousmachinery and some packaged oil products. As Schlei was preparing to load thetruck from the pump house a flash fire broke out at his feet, and quickly spreadto engulf the pump house.
Theresultant heat destroyed the pipe connections to the huge tanks, causing them togravity feed the stored gasoline into the fire. Schlei, slightly hurt, jumpedinto his vehicle and drove it away from the pump house. Then he ran to theNorthwestern Depot, but already the station agent was on the telephone callingthe Sussex Fire Department.
RoyEvert, newly elected Sussex fire chief, was faced with his first big fire.Within minutes he found flames 100 feet and more in the air, with a pillar ofsmoke that could be seen as far as Milwaukee, North Prairie, Watertown and WestBend. Flames jumped to the top of all five tanks, burning at the exhaustapertures. Chief Evert had an abundant supply of water in a nearby creek.
The fire in 1951
Soonafter the department arrived there was an explosion rupturing a 500 gallonaviation fuel tank that was 40 feet away from the pump house fire.
Thewater hoses had little effect on the flames other than to act as a coolant.
ThePewaukee Fire Department had new foam dispensing equipment and was called on forassistance. After the foam was brought to play on the fire it too was found tobe ineffective because of the great heat, wind, and the area involved. Firefighting dragged on for hours with no real results.
Repulsed during their first long concerted attacked, officers present discussedif it would be possible to shut off the valves to the 12,000 gallon gasolinetanks feeding the fire. John Plein volunteered to go into the searing hot areawith protective clothing. At first the chiefs decided against the attempt butran a simulated advance towards the valves, with fire hoses throwing out aprotective curtain and the results were favorable. Plein was given the go-ahead.Wearing his fire cost, he donned cape and hand-forearm gloves. He got down onall fours and crawled toward the valves. Several high pressure hoses weretrained on him and the flames nearby. He advanced forward to the first valve,gripped it, turned it off and advanced to the next and the next cut-off valvesuntil he had them all turned off.
Withinminutes the flames died down as the supply of fuel was stopped.
Oncethe big fire was down, the exhaust pipe flames on top of all the storage tankswere put out as massive streams of water were sprayed on the sides of the tanksto cool them down below the boiling point.
Radiantheat had ignited some parked gandy dancer (section hands) living quarter cars onthe adjacent Northwestern tracks. In retrospect, several people interviewed forthis story related how the “gandy dancers” tried to save some of theirbelongings. It reminded them of the “Keystone Cops” routines assomeone would disappear in doors, come out of windows, run into each other,suitcases and clothes flying in all directions. Later, several of the”gandy dancers” put in claims to the Hardiman Oil Company’s insurancecompany, that they had lost $100 suits, $50 shoes and alligator leather suitcases. The insurance company balked at paying these claims.
In all,approximately 14,000 gallons of gas and fuel oil had been consumed with a dollarfigure of $15,000 put down as the estimated damage.
The storage facility in 1978
The following is anexcerpt from Fred H. Keller’s article “Honeymoon cottage for Hardimans”,first published in the Sussex Sun, Tuesday, June 27, 1978
WalterHardiman married Alfred’s Wileden’s daughter, Elsie, and the house (formerlyBoots in 1864, the James Elliott in the 1890’s, later rental residence of OttoSmith), was their honeymoon cottage.
Hardiman was in the quarry business near where Vulcan Materials Quarry is today[Hwys 74 and County Rd K or Lisbon Rd.]. Later with his sons, Percy and Ralph,he founded the Hardiman Oil Co. It was initially located where Paul Cain’sService Station is today [southeast corner of Main St. and Maple Ave.], butlater quarters were in what is now a Sporting Goods shop next to Sussex Creek[no longer there in 2004]. Today [1978] Hardiman Oil Co. is located on Silver Spring.