Bio: Huntley, Thomas (23 May 1935)

Contact: Crystal Wendt
Email: crystal@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Huntley, Sufficool

----Sources: Neillsville Press (Neillsville, Clark County, Wis.) 23 May 1935

Pioneer Reviews that Past

Thomas Huntley of La Crosse came up last week for a visit at the homes of his nephews William and Grover Huntley. Mr. Huntley was one of the early settlers of this county. In 1869, in company with tree brothers Richard, William and John, their sister, Mrs. Sufficool and their mother, he came from Washington County and settled on the "north road" in what is now the town of Weston.

The Huntleys all bought land and developed good farms in Weston. Thomas owned and developed what was later known as the W. C. Thomas farm. He worked in lumber camps in winter, the last few winters being camp foreman. In 1886 he moved with his family to La Crosse and went to work for the Burlington Railroad Company, being in their employ for about 35 years. He is now retired. His wife died May 9 and Mr. Huntley plans to make his home with a daughter at Yakima, Washington, after visiting relatives for a time.

Mr. Huntley is a most interesting man to meet. Although he is 81 years of age, his mind is clear, his memory good and his judgment seems very sound. He has seen this country develop from a wilderness, and is convinced that much of the present day unrest and poverty comes from the vague theories about "high standards of living", short hours and high wages. Mr. Huntley believes that people were never more comfortable or happy than during the pioneer days here. He says that he lived through the best years this country or any other country ever saw and he appreciates the good things he has enjoyed.