We wish to acknowledge the help of many persons and firms in the preparation of this book. The cooperation has been wonderful; not once have we been refused when we asked for information or help.
George Hunt of the recorder’s office let us search for information day after day. He and Mr. E. J. Riley at the abstract office must have become very tired of our visits there, but they didn’t show it.
The L. L. Cook Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin permitted the use of their 1953 photographs of El Paso buildings and scenes. The aerial view we use on the inside cover is by courtesy of the Hawkeye Calendar Company of Independence, Iowa. The art work showing an Indian watching a pioneer surveyor was furnished by the America Fore Insurance Group of New York City, and several other pioneer pictures were furnished by the Publicity Division, Commonwealth of Kentucky. None made any charge whatever.
We do not claim to qualify fully as old time citizens of the El Paso community, but we received assistance from a number who can. Dean of this group is the Reverend Della B. Stretch, born in Greene Township nearly ninety-four years ago. Carrie Robinson, who has lived every one of her eighty-two years in the house she still occupies, has helped, as has Katharine Jenkins, daughter of the Isaac M. Jenkins so often mentioned. In point of family lineage, she has the longest El Paso residence. Information, pictures, and special help have come from Chris Zinkan, Ame Wolk, Dr. Charlie Patton, Bud Sturm, Bert Smith, Bert Lemon, Pete and Frank Haas, Lewis Powell, Dave Bilbrey, Jim Fitzgerald, George Williamson, Joe Fulton, Rich and Bob Mayne and many others. Especial assistance came from Mr. and Mrs. Chet Curtiss, who loaned us many of the pictures we use. Chet’s many years at the Journal, and his knowledge of where we could find facts has been invaluable.
The whole community has helped because it knew this was a community project. We are very grateful to everyone.
THE EL PASO STORY COMMITTEE.
El Paso, Illinois;
April 20, 1954.