h/o Clara Phillis.
Peter Nelson "P N" Wiggins resided at 615 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri with his wife Clara when he crossed over that river of life.
Below is a portion of the 50th Wedding Anniversary article as read. The interview was related to the reporter by Mr. Wiggins, the entire article appears on his wife's memorial page.
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
May 6, 1941
NOTABLE EVENT FOR MR. AND MRS. P. N. WIGGINS
Widely Known Carthage Couple Prominent in City's Activities, Both Cultural and Business
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. N. Wiggins, widely known Carthage couple.
They are spending the day quietly at their home at the corner of Seventh and Grant streets, without formally celebrating the event, although it was originally planned that they should go to Houston, Texas where their son, Clarence A. Wiggins, resides and be the guests of honor at a gathering at which the other two sons, P. N. Wiggins,jr of Dallas and Raymond Wiggins of LaFayette, LA. and the families of all three should be present. But this plan had to be abandoned a few days ago when Mr. Wiggins developed a severe attack of lumbago, from which however, he is now recovering.
The Texas trip is merely postponed, it is explained, and it will be taken in the near future, though the anniversary celebration originally planned in connection with it will, of course, have to be abandoned.
First Job in a Grocery
"I got my first job through a fortunate circumstance. I had had my eye on the J. J. Wells, grocery store [then on east side of square] for some time. It was then known as the Wells & Harris store and I continually hung around it in the hope that something in my favor would turn up.
"One day Col. J. W. Campbell, who then operated the St. Charles Hotel on the site of what is now the Reynolds hardware store [northeast corner, 3rd & Main streets], came to J. J. Wells looking for chickens and using profanity freely as was his custom. He wanted chicken and he wanted them right now. Mr. Wells had said they would be sent over, but that did not satisfy the swearing colonel - and there was where I saw my chance. I offered to deliver the chickens and immediately carried the entire coop full across the square to the hotel.
"Mr. Wells was rather appreciative and when I got back I struck him for a job. After a short talk he put me to work. That was on July 2, 1878, when I was 18 years old and then and there I was launched in the grocery business.
Wholesaling Developed
"The Wells store was at that time on the east side of the square and a little later was moved to the south side, adjoining the Griswold grocery, on the site of the present Karbe store. Just a little while after that the store was moved to the present site of the College Pharmacy, where J. J. Wells held forth for many years, getting into wholesaling as well as continuing the retail business. We expanded by renting the room south of us, now occupied by the Western Auto store, cutting an arch between the two rooms, after first having bought out Pool & Hobbs, who had a grocery store there.
"My first job was delivering groceries, using a 1 horse wagon with a short bed. I later became a full fledged clerk and salesman and finally a member of the firm.
"In 1888 we sold the retail business to Walter Wells, a brother of J. J., who remained on the Fourth and Main corner, and we erected the 3-story wholesale house on South Main Street, the firm name being in the mean time changed to the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
"I remained in the firm till 1906 when I sold my interest to J. J. Wells and his associates.
"I immediately formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and we operated extensively for many years. Mr. Johnson, who now lives in Colorado, is still in that line.
"As brokers we sold supplies in every principal city in the United States. During the world war days we dealt extensively in such staples as rice and beans, having at one time more than 200 cars of rice in storage in New York City.
"All of the jobbers doing business in southwest Missouri when I began only one, so far as I know, is still living. That is Ed Nix, formerly of Joplin who now resides in St. Louis.
Remodeled Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding and transforming run down homes, began buying Carthage properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to rebuilding them.
Mr. Wiggins does not know exactly how many Carthage homes he has rebuilt but he has been able to count more than 200. In this work he has done the community a real service.
Mr. Wiggins has been a man of great energy and enterprise and has been active in every effort for the city's advancement.
Having seen Carthage grow from an insignificant village to its present proportions, he has an affection for the city which is genuine and deep rooted. Mrs. Wiggins shares the same sentiments, although her residence here has been only about two-thirds that of her husband.
The both love Carthage, and they have hundreds of friends in Carthage who love them and will join in the numerous felicitations pouring in upon them in connection with today's notable event.
____________
~ Note by Bill Boggess: now the rest of the story . . . .
~ Wiggins retired as vice-president from what was once, one of the two wholesale grocery supply companies in Carthage, the other being Griswald company, having once partnered with Walter S and John J Wells, in the Wells-Wiggins company, who around 1892 built the building located north side of the Methodist church, west side of 600 block at 605-607 south Main street. Wells' brother-in-law, L. Frank Woodward became a partner when Wiggins sold out. The Platt-Porter company bought Wells-Woodard company in 1911, then the L H Beck Casket company occupied the old 1892 quarters in 1920 when Platt-Porter moved to their new building at northwest corner of 6th & Main, across street west from the Y M C A, then they bought their competition, Griswold company in 1930. Walter S Wells left in 1931 when Cherry Griggs, husband of the bosses daughter, started as salesman. Later the Carthage Evening Press company moved to the empty Platt-Porter building at 6th & Main from their location on west 4th street.
P N Wiggins is also found on the 1909 City Directory as the president of Richardson Grocery at 413-415 south Main, with P N Richardson its vice president, ~ however this conflicts with other listings therein?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Death: at home in Carthage, Jasper county, Missouri at age 88 years, from complications of heart disease,
The death certificate can be viewed at Missouri Digital Archives/death certificates online website.
informant: son, Raymond Wiggins, Ordway, Colorado. Funeral under direction of Knell Mortuary of Carthage, MO
FATHER: Thomas Wiggins
Birthplace: Ross County, Ohio
MOTHER: Mary (Alms) Wiggins
Birthplace: West Moreland County, Pennsylvania
∭∭∭∭
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
April 27, 1949
P. N. WIGGINS IS DEAD AT 88
PROMINENT PIONEER HAD LIVED HERE 80 YEARS
Coming With Parents in Covered Wagon, He Played Important Role in Development of Carthage
P. N. Wiggins, 88, widely known Carthage resident and prominent for many years in the business life of this city, died at 6:26 o'clock last night at the family home, 615 Grant street. He had been in failing health several years and the last two weeks his condition had been critical. His sons, Phillis N. Wiggins of Dallas, and Clarence Wiggins of Houston, who were here for a time at the bedside of their father returned to their respective homes, but yesterday were notified of his grave condition and returned last night. There were accompanied here by their wives. The other son, Raymond Wiggins of Ordway, CO., has been her several days, and was joined here last night by his wife.
Peter Nelson Wiggins had been a resident of Carthage about 80 years. He was born September 30, 1860 in Altona, Knox county, Illinois. He came here in May, 1869 from Circleville, Ohio and had been a resident of Carthage since.
By River to St. Louis
In an interview with THE PRESS a few years ago Mr. Wiggins said his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wiggins made up their minds early in 1869 to leave Ohio. Food supplies in that state were high in price and hard to obtain. Mr. Wiggins said, recalling that during one year the family had but one sack of white flour and the remainder of the time they had only corn meal from which to make bread. His parents determined to join the throngs going west to grow up with the country. His father, then 49 years old, and the elder children, set out for Cincinnati with his household goods and a team of horses, which he loaded on an Ohio river steamboat bound for St. Louis by way of Cairo and then up the Mississippi. They were on the steamboat two weeks before they reached St. Louis, where the horses, household goods and Mr. Wiggins and his children, were transferred to a Missouri Pacific train for Sedalia, then the western terminus of the road.
After outfitting his party with a covered wagon they set out for Carthage, camping out and preparing their meals as they made the various stages of the trip. Mrs. Wiggins and the other four children, including the son, P. N., left Ohio after Mr. Wiggins found a home for them. They made to trip by train to St. Louis and from there to Sedalia where the father met them with the covered wagon to bring them to Carthage. Thomas Wiggins died in 1902 and his wife passed away in 1913.
Street Named for Father
Wiggins street in the south part of Carthage was named for Thomas Wiggins. The original Wiggins home is at the intersection of Wiggins and Garrison [southeast corner], now owned by the Col. and Mrs. E. N. Hackney. P. N. Wiggins lived at that location while obtaining his early education in Carthage. At the age of 17 he went to work as clerk for J. J. Wells, who had a grocery store on the east side of the square. Later Mr. Wells moved to the south side of the square and became a wholesale grocer. Mr. Wiggins became the partner of Mr. Wells and the firm then was known as the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
In 1892 a building was erected as the new home of the Wells & Wiggins Grocery company at a location just north of the Methodist church on South Main Street. The building was used as a wholesale grocery for many years and is occupied by the Beck Casket Company.
On May 6, 1891 P. N. Wiggins was married to Clara Alice Phillis. The couple was married at the ranch home of Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Steinmetz, six miles north of Pueblo, Colorado. The Steinmetz family formerly lived in Carthage. Mrs. Steinmetz was a sister of Mrs. Wiggins.
Mr. Wiggins sold his interest in the grocery business in 1906 to L. Frank Woodward. For a short time he was interested in mining and then formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and they operated extensively for many years. The company offices were in Joplin. However, Mr. Wiggins continued to make his home in Joplin.
Rebuilt Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding transformed old properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to home rebuilding operations. He continued in the real estate business until his retirement a number of years ago.
Mr. Wiggins served as a member of the city council in about 1900. He was on the board of directors of the Carthage National Bank, which merged with the Bank of Carthage years ago, and was a member of the Jasper County Building Association. At one time he was a member of the Rotary Club.
Surviving are his wife; the three sons, and the following grandsons: William and Pete N. Wiggins, III of Dallas and Robert Wiggins of Houston.
Last of His Family
Mr. Wiggins was the last of the family. His brothers and sisters and the dates of their deaths follow: Henry A. Wiggins, 1927; Louisa Fritts, 1927; Marinda Wiggins, 1936; Thomas L. Wiggins, 1940; Manda Carnahan, 1947; There were three half brothers, John Wesley Wiggins, Stephen Wiggins and William A. Flowers and a half sister, Catherine Rose.
Harold Wiggins of Carthage is a nephew of Mr. Wiggins.
Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Knell service home with the Rev. R. H. Bodine, pastor of the First Methodist church in charge. The body will be placed in Oak Crest Abbey in Park Cemetery.
Peter Nelson "P N" Wiggins resided at 615 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri with his wife Clara when he crossed over that river of life.
Below is a portion of the 50th Wedding Anniversary article as read. The interview was related to the reporter by Mr. Wiggins, the entire article appears on his wife's memorial page.
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
May 6, 1941
NOTABLE EVENT FOR MR. AND MRS. P. N. WIGGINS
Widely Known Carthage Couple Prominent in City's Activities, Both Cultural and Business
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. N. Wiggins, widely known Carthage couple.
They are spending the day quietly at their home at the corner of Seventh and Grant streets, without formally celebrating the event, although it was originally planned that they should go to Houston, Texas where their son, Clarence A. Wiggins, resides and be the guests of honor at a gathering at which the other two sons, P. N. Wiggins,jr of Dallas and Raymond Wiggins of LaFayette, LA. and the families of all three should be present. But this plan had to be abandoned a few days ago when Mr. Wiggins developed a severe attack of lumbago, from which however, he is now recovering.
The Texas trip is merely postponed, it is explained, and it will be taken in the near future, though the anniversary celebration originally planned in connection with it will, of course, have to be abandoned.
First Job in a Grocery
"I got my first job through a fortunate circumstance. I had had my eye on the J. J. Wells, grocery store [then on east side of square] for some time. It was then known as the Wells & Harris store and I continually hung around it in the hope that something in my favor would turn up.
"One day Col. J. W. Campbell, who then operated the St. Charles Hotel on the site of what is now the Reynolds hardware store [northeast corner, 3rd & Main streets], came to J. J. Wells looking for chickens and using profanity freely as was his custom. He wanted chicken and he wanted them right now. Mr. Wells had said they would be sent over, but that did not satisfy the swearing colonel - and there was where I saw my chance. I offered to deliver the chickens and immediately carried the entire coop full across the square to the hotel.
"Mr. Wells was rather appreciative and when I got back I struck him for a job. After a short talk he put me to work. That was on July 2, 1878, when I was 18 years old and then and there I was launched in the grocery business.
Wholesaling Developed
"The Wells store was at that time on the east side of the square and a little later was moved to the south side, adjoining the Griswold grocery, on the site of the present Karbe store. Just a little while after that the store was moved to the present site of the College Pharmacy, where J. J. Wells held forth for many years, getting into wholesaling as well as continuing the retail business. We expanded by renting the room south of us, now occupied by the Western Auto store, cutting an arch between the two rooms, after first having bought out Pool & Hobbs, who had a grocery store there.
"My first job was delivering groceries, using a 1 horse wagon with a short bed. I later became a full fledged clerk and salesman and finally a member of the firm.
"In 1888 we sold the retail business to Walter Wells, a brother of J. J., who remained on the Fourth and Main corner, and we erected the 3-story wholesale house on South Main Street, the firm name being in the mean time changed to the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
"I remained in the firm till 1906 when I sold my interest to J. J. Wells and his associates.
"I immediately formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and we operated extensively for many years. Mr. Johnson, who now lives in Colorado, is still in that line.
"As brokers we sold supplies in every principal city in the United States. During the world war days we dealt extensively in such staples as rice and beans, having at one time more than 200 cars of rice in storage in New York City.
"All of the jobbers doing business in southwest Missouri when I began only one, so far as I know, is still living. That is Ed Nix, formerly of Joplin who now resides in St. Louis.
Remodeled Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding and transforming run down homes, began buying Carthage properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to rebuilding them.
Mr. Wiggins does not know exactly how many Carthage homes he has rebuilt but he has been able to count more than 200. In this work he has done the community a real service.
Mr. Wiggins has been a man of great energy and enterprise and has been active in every effort for the city's advancement.
Having seen Carthage grow from an insignificant village to its present proportions, he has an affection for the city which is genuine and deep rooted. Mrs. Wiggins shares the same sentiments, although her residence here has been only about two-thirds that of her husband.
The both love Carthage, and they have hundreds of friends in Carthage who love them and will join in the numerous felicitations pouring in upon them in connection with today's notable event.
____________
~ Note by Bill Boggess: now the rest of the story . . . .
~ Wiggins retired as vice-president from what was once, one of the two wholesale grocery supply companies in Carthage, the other being Griswald company, having once partnered with Walter S and John J Wells, in the Wells-Wiggins company, who around 1892 built the building located north side of the Methodist church, west side of 600 block at 605-607 south Main street. Wells' brother-in-law, L. Frank Woodward became a partner when Wiggins sold out. The Platt-Porter company bought Wells-Woodard company in 1911, then the L H Beck Casket company occupied the old 1892 quarters in 1920 when Platt-Porter moved to their new building at northwest corner of 6th & Main, across street west from the Y M C A, then they bought their competition, Griswold company in 1930. Walter S Wells left in 1931 when Cherry Griggs, husband of the bosses daughter, started as salesman. Later the Carthage Evening Press company moved to the empty Platt-Porter building at 6th & Main from their location on west 4th street.
P N Wiggins is also found on the 1909 City Directory as the president of Richardson Grocery at 413-415 south Main, with P N Richardson its vice president, ~ however this conflicts with other listings therein?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Death: at home in Carthage, Jasper county, Missouri at age 88 years, from complications of heart disease,
The death certificate can be viewed at Missouri Digital Archives/death certificates online website.
informant: son, Raymond Wiggins, Ordway, Colorado. Funeral under direction of Knell Mortuary of Carthage, MO
FATHER: Thomas Wiggins
Birthplace: Ross County, Ohio
MOTHER: Mary (Alms) Wiggins
Birthplace: West Moreland County, Pennsylvania
∭∭∭∭
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
April 27, 1949
P. N. WIGGINS IS DEAD AT 88
PROMINENT PIONEER HAD LIVED HERE 80 YEARS
Coming With Parents in Covered Wagon, He Played Important Role in Development of Carthage
P. N. Wiggins, 88, widely known Carthage resident and prominent for many years in the business life of this city, died at 6:26 o'clock last night at the family home, 615 Grant street. He had been in failing health several years and the last two weeks his condition had been critical. His sons, Phillis N. Wiggins of Dallas, and Clarence Wiggins of Houston, who were here for a time at the bedside of their father returned to their respective homes, but yesterday were notified of his grave condition and returned last night. There were accompanied here by their wives. The other son, Raymond Wiggins of Ordway, CO., has been her several days, and was joined here last night by his wife.
Peter Nelson Wiggins had been a resident of Carthage about 80 years. He was born September 30, 1860 in Altona, Knox county, Illinois. He came here in May, 1869 from Circleville, Ohio and had been a resident of Carthage since.
By River to St. Louis
In an interview with THE PRESS a few years ago Mr. Wiggins said his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wiggins made up their minds early in 1869 to leave Ohio. Food supplies in that state were high in price and hard to obtain. Mr. Wiggins said, recalling that during one year the family had but one sack of white flour and the remainder of the time they had only corn meal from which to make bread. His parents determined to join the throngs going west to grow up with the country. His father, then 49 years old, and the elder children, set out for Cincinnati with his household goods and a team of horses, which he loaded on an Ohio river steamboat bound for St. Louis by way of Cairo and then up the Mississippi. They were on the steamboat two weeks before they reached St. Louis, where the horses, household goods and Mr. Wiggins and his children, were transferred to a Missouri Pacific train for Sedalia, then the western terminus of the road.
After outfitting his party with a covered wagon they set out for Carthage, camping out and preparing their meals as they made the various stages of the trip. Mrs. Wiggins and the other four children, including the son, P. N., left Ohio after Mr. Wiggins found a home for them. They made to trip by train to St. Louis and from there to Sedalia where the father met them with the covered wagon to bring them to Carthage. Thomas Wiggins died in 1902 and his wife passed away in 1913.
Street Named for Father
Wiggins street in the south part of Carthage was named for Thomas Wiggins. The original Wiggins home is at the intersection of Wiggins and Garrison [southeast corner], now owned by the Col. and Mrs. E. N. Hackney. P. N. Wiggins lived at that location while obtaining his early education in Carthage. At the age of 17 he went to work as clerk for J. J. Wells, who had a grocery store on the east side of the square. Later Mr. Wells moved to the south side of the square and became a wholesale grocer. Mr. Wiggins became the partner of Mr. Wells and the firm then was known as the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
In 1892 a building was erected as the new home of the Wells & Wiggins Grocery company at a location just north of the Methodist church on South Main Street. The building was used as a wholesale grocery for many years and is occupied by the Beck Casket Company.
On May 6, 1891 P. N. Wiggins was married to Clara Alice Phillis. The couple was married at the ranch home of Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Steinmetz, six miles north of Pueblo, Colorado. The Steinmetz family formerly lived in Carthage. Mrs. Steinmetz was a sister of Mrs. Wiggins.
Mr. Wiggins sold his interest in the grocery business in 1906 to L. Frank Woodward. For a short time he was interested in mining and then formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and they operated extensively for many years. The company offices were in Joplin. However, Mr. Wiggins continued to make his home in Joplin.
Rebuilt Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding transformed old properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to home rebuilding operations. He continued in the real estate business until his retirement a number of years ago.
Mr. Wiggins served as a member of the city council in about 1900. He was on the board of directors of the Carthage National Bank, which merged with the Bank of Carthage years ago, and was a member of the Jasper County Building Association. At one time he was a member of the Rotary Club.
Surviving are his wife; the three sons, and the following grandsons: William and Pete N. Wiggins, III of Dallas and Robert Wiggins of Houston.
Last of His Family
Mr. Wiggins was the last of the family. His brothers and sisters and the dates of their deaths follow: Henry A. Wiggins, 1927; Louisa Fritts, 1927; Marinda Wiggins, 1936; Thomas L. Wiggins, 1940; Manda Carnahan, 1947; There were three half brothers, John Wesley Wiggins, Stephen Wiggins and William A. Flowers and a half sister, Catherine Rose.
Harold Wiggins of Carthage is a nephew of Mr. Wiggins.
Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Knell service home with the Rev. R. H. Bodine, pastor of the First Methodist church in charge. The body will be placed in Oak Crest Abbey in Park Cemetery.
h/o Clara Phillis.
Peter Nelson "P N" Wiggins resided at 615 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri with his wife Clara when he crossed over that river of life.
Below is a portion of the 50th Wedding Anniversary article as read. The interview was related to the reporter by Mr. Wiggins, the entire article appears on his wife's memorial page.
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
May 6, 1941
NOTABLE EVENT FOR MR. AND MRS. P. N. WIGGINS
Widely Known Carthage Couple Prominent in City's Activities, Both Cultural and Business
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. N. Wiggins, widely known Carthage couple.
They are spending the day quietly at their home at the corner of Seventh and Grant streets, without formally celebrating the event, although it was originally planned that they should go to Houston, Texas where their son, Clarence A. Wiggins, resides and be the guests of honor at a gathering at which the other two sons, P. N. Wiggins,jr of Dallas and Raymond Wiggins of LaFayette, LA. and the families of all three should be present. But this plan had to be abandoned a few days ago when Mr. Wiggins developed a severe attack of lumbago, from which however, he is now recovering.
The Texas trip is merely postponed, it is explained, and it will be taken in the near future, though the anniversary celebration originally planned in connection with it will, of course, have to be abandoned.
First Job in a Grocery
"I got my first job through a fortunate circumstance. I had had my eye on the J. J. Wells, grocery store [then on east side of square] for some time. It was then known as the Wells & Harris store and I continually hung around it in the hope that something in my favor would turn up.
"One day Col. J. W. Campbell, who then operated the St. Charles Hotel on the site of what is now the Reynolds hardware store [northeast corner, 3rd & Main streets], came to J. J. Wells looking for chickens and using profanity freely as was his custom. He wanted chicken and he wanted them right now. Mr. Wells had said they would be sent over, but that did not satisfy the swearing colonel - and there was where I saw my chance. I offered to deliver the chickens and immediately carried the entire coop full across the square to the hotel.
"Mr. Wells was rather appreciative and when I got back I struck him for a job. After a short talk he put me to work. That was on July 2, 1878, when I was 18 years old and then and there I was launched in the grocery business.
Wholesaling Developed
"The Wells store was at that time on the east side of the square and a little later was moved to the south side, adjoining the Griswold grocery, on the site of the present Karbe store. Just a little while after that the store was moved to the present site of the College Pharmacy, where J. J. Wells held forth for many years, getting into wholesaling as well as continuing the retail business. We expanded by renting the room south of us, now occupied by the Western Auto store, cutting an arch between the two rooms, after first having bought out Pool & Hobbs, who had a grocery store there.
"My first job was delivering groceries, using a 1 horse wagon with a short bed. I later became a full fledged clerk and salesman and finally a member of the firm.
"In 1888 we sold the retail business to Walter Wells, a brother of J. J., who remained on the Fourth and Main corner, and we erected the 3-story wholesale house on South Main Street, the firm name being in the mean time changed to the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
"I remained in the firm till 1906 when I sold my interest to J. J. Wells and his associates.
"I immediately formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and we operated extensively for many years. Mr. Johnson, who now lives in Colorado, is still in that line.
"As brokers we sold supplies in every principal city in the United States. During the world war days we dealt extensively in such staples as rice and beans, having at one time more than 200 cars of rice in storage in New York City.
"All of the jobbers doing business in southwest Missouri when I began only one, so far as I know, is still living. That is Ed Nix, formerly of Joplin who now resides in St. Louis.
Remodeled Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding and transforming run down homes, began buying Carthage properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to rebuilding them.
Mr. Wiggins does not know exactly how many Carthage homes he has rebuilt but he has been able to count more than 200. In this work he has done the community a real service.
Mr. Wiggins has been a man of great energy and enterprise and has been active in every effort for the city's advancement.
Having seen Carthage grow from an insignificant village to its present proportions, he has an affection for the city which is genuine and deep rooted. Mrs. Wiggins shares the same sentiments, although her residence here has been only about two-thirds that of her husband.
The both love Carthage, and they have hundreds of friends in Carthage who love them and will join in the numerous felicitations pouring in upon them in connection with today's notable event.
____________
~ Note by Bill Boggess: now the rest of the story . . . .
~ Wiggins retired as vice-president from what was once, one of the two wholesale grocery supply companies in Carthage, the other being Griswald company, having once partnered with Walter S and John J Wells, in the Wells-Wiggins company, who around 1892 built the building located north side of the Methodist church, west side of 600 block at 605-607 south Main street. Wells' brother-in-law, L. Frank Woodward became a partner when Wiggins sold out. The Platt-Porter company bought Wells-Woodard company in 1911, then the L H Beck Casket company occupied the old 1892 quarters in 1920 when Platt-Porter moved to their new building at northwest corner of 6th & Main, across street west from the Y M C A, then they bought their competition, Griswold company in 1930. Walter S Wells left in 1931 when Cherry Griggs, husband of the bosses daughter, started as salesman. Later the Carthage Evening Press company moved to the empty Platt-Porter building at 6th & Main from their location on west 4th street.
P N Wiggins is also found on the 1909 City Directory as the president of Richardson Grocery at 413-415 south Main, with P N Richardson its vice president, ~ however this conflicts with other listings therein?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Death: at home in Carthage, Jasper county, Missouri at age 88 years, from complications of heart disease,
The death certificate can be viewed at Missouri Digital Archives/death certificates online website.
informant: son, Raymond Wiggins, Ordway, Colorado. Funeral under direction of Knell Mortuary of Carthage, MO
FATHER: Thomas Wiggins
Birthplace: Ross County, Ohio
MOTHER: Mary (Alms) Wiggins
Birthplace: West Moreland County, Pennsylvania
∭∭∭∭
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
April 27, 1949
P. N. WIGGINS IS DEAD AT 88
PROMINENT PIONEER HAD LIVED HERE 80 YEARS
Coming With Parents in Covered Wagon, He Played Important Role in Development of Carthage
P. N. Wiggins, 88, widely known Carthage resident and prominent for many years in the business life of this city, died at 6:26 o'clock last night at the family home, 615 Grant street. He had been in failing health several years and the last two weeks his condition had been critical. His sons, Phillis N. Wiggins of Dallas, and Clarence Wiggins of Houston, who were here for a time at the bedside of their father returned to their respective homes, but yesterday were notified of his grave condition and returned last night. There were accompanied here by their wives. The other son, Raymond Wiggins of Ordway, CO., has been her several days, and was joined here last night by his wife.
Peter Nelson Wiggins had been a resident of Carthage about 80 years. He was born September 30, 1860 in Altona, Knox county, Illinois. He came here in May, 1869 from Circleville, Ohio and had been a resident of Carthage since.
By River to St. Louis
In an interview with THE PRESS a few years ago Mr. Wiggins said his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wiggins made up their minds early in 1869 to leave Ohio. Food supplies in that state were high in price and hard to obtain. Mr. Wiggins said, recalling that during one year the family had but one sack of white flour and the remainder of the time they had only corn meal from which to make bread. His parents determined to join the throngs going west to grow up with the country. His father, then 49 years old, and the elder children, set out for Cincinnati with his household goods and a team of horses, which he loaded on an Ohio river steamboat bound for St. Louis by way of Cairo and then up the Mississippi. They were on the steamboat two weeks before they reached St. Louis, where the horses, household goods and Mr. Wiggins and his children, were transferred to a Missouri Pacific train for Sedalia, then the western terminus of the road.
After outfitting his party with a covered wagon they set out for Carthage, camping out and preparing their meals as they made the various stages of the trip. Mrs. Wiggins and the other four children, including the son, P. N., left Ohio after Mr. Wiggins found a home for them. They made to trip by train to St. Louis and from there to Sedalia where the father met them with the covered wagon to bring them to Carthage. Thomas Wiggins died in 1902 and his wife passed away in 1913.
Street Named for Father
Wiggins street in the south part of Carthage was named for Thomas Wiggins. The original Wiggins home is at the intersection of Wiggins and Garrison [southeast corner], now owned by the Col. and Mrs. E. N. Hackney. P. N. Wiggins lived at that location while obtaining his early education in Carthage. At the age of 17 he went to work as clerk for J. J. Wells, who had a grocery store on the east side of the square. Later Mr. Wells moved to the south side of the square and became a wholesale grocer. Mr. Wiggins became the partner of Mr. Wells and the firm then was known as the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
In 1892 a building was erected as the new home of the Wells & Wiggins Grocery company at a location just north of the Methodist church on South Main Street. The building was used as a wholesale grocery for many years and is occupied by the Beck Casket Company.
On May 6, 1891 P. N. Wiggins was married to Clara Alice Phillis. The couple was married at the ranch home of Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Steinmetz, six miles north of Pueblo, Colorado. The Steinmetz family formerly lived in Carthage. Mrs. Steinmetz was a sister of Mrs. Wiggins.
Mr. Wiggins sold his interest in the grocery business in 1906 to L. Frank Woodward. For a short time he was interested in mining and then formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and they operated extensively for many years. The company offices were in Joplin. However, Mr. Wiggins continued to make his home in Joplin.
Rebuilt Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding transformed old properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to home rebuilding operations. He continued in the real estate business until his retirement a number of years ago.
Mr. Wiggins served as a member of the city council in about 1900. He was on the board of directors of the Carthage National Bank, which merged with the Bank of Carthage years ago, and was a member of the Jasper County Building Association. At one time he was a member of the Rotary Club.
Surviving are his wife; the three sons, and the following grandsons: William and Pete N. Wiggins, III of Dallas and Robert Wiggins of Houston.
Last of His Family
Mr. Wiggins was the last of the family. His brothers and sisters and the dates of their deaths follow: Henry A. Wiggins, 1927; Louisa Fritts, 1927; Marinda Wiggins, 1936; Thomas L. Wiggins, 1940; Manda Carnahan, 1947; There were three half brothers, John Wesley Wiggins, Stephen Wiggins and William A. Flowers and a half sister, Catherine Rose.
Harold Wiggins of Carthage is a nephew of Mr. Wiggins.
Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Knell service home with the Rev. R. H. Bodine, pastor of the First Methodist church in charge. The body will be placed in Oak Crest Abbey in Park Cemetery.
Peter Nelson "P N" Wiggins resided at 615 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri with his wife Clara when he crossed over that river of life.
Below is a portion of the 50th Wedding Anniversary article as read. The interview was related to the reporter by Mr. Wiggins, the entire article appears on his wife's memorial page.
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
May 6, 1941
NOTABLE EVENT FOR MR. AND MRS. P. N. WIGGINS
Widely Known Carthage Couple Prominent in City's Activities, Both Cultural and Business
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. N. Wiggins, widely known Carthage couple.
They are spending the day quietly at their home at the corner of Seventh and Grant streets, without formally celebrating the event, although it was originally planned that they should go to Houston, Texas where their son, Clarence A. Wiggins, resides and be the guests of honor at a gathering at which the other two sons, P. N. Wiggins,jr of Dallas and Raymond Wiggins of LaFayette, LA. and the families of all three should be present. But this plan had to be abandoned a few days ago when Mr. Wiggins developed a severe attack of lumbago, from which however, he is now recovering.
The Texas trip is merely postponed, it is explained, and it will be taken in the near future, though the anniversary celebration originally planned in connection with it will, of course, have to be abandoned.
First Job in a Grocery
"I got my first job through a fortunate circumstance. I had had my eye on the J. J. Wells, grocery store [then on east side of square] for some time. It was then known as the Wells & Harris store and I continually hung around it in the hope that something in my favor would turn up.
"One day Col. J. W. Campbell, who then operated the St. Charles Hotel on the site of what is now the Reynolds hardware store [northeast corner, 3rd & Main streets], came to J. J. Wells looking for chickens and using profanity freely as was his custom. He wanted chicken and he wanted them right now. Mr. Wells had said they would be sent over, but that did not satisfy the swearing colonel - and there was where I saw my chance. I offered to deliver the chickens and immediately carried the entire coop full across the square to the hotel.
"Mr. Wells was rather appreciative and when I got back I struck him for a job. After a short talk he put me to work. That was on July 2, 1878, when I was 18 years old and then and there I was launched in the grocery business.
Wholesaling Developed
"The Wells store was at that time on the east side of the square and a little later was moved to the south side, adjoining the Griswold grocery, on the site of the present Karbe store. Just a little while after that the store was moved to the present site of the College Pharmacy, where J. J. Wells held forth for many years, getting into wholesaling as well as continuing the retail business. We expanded by renting the room south of us, now occupied by the Western Auto store, cutting an arch between the two rooms, after first having bought out Pool & Hobbs, who had a grocery store there.
"My first job was delivering groceries, using a 1 horse wagon with a short bed. I later became a full fledged clerk and salesman and finally a member of the firm.
"In 1888 we sold the retail business to Walter Wells, a brother of J. J., who remained on the Fourth and Main corner, and we erected the 3-story wholesale house on South Main Street, the firm name being in the mean time changed to the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
"I remained in the firm till 1906 when I sold my interest to J. J. Wells and his associates.
"I immediately formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and we operated extensively for many years. Mr. Johnson, who now lives in Colorado, is still in that line.
"As brokers we sold supplies in every principal city in the United States. During the world war days we dealt extensively in such staples as rice and beans, having at one time more than 200 cars of rice in storage in New York City.
"All of the jobbers doing business in southwest Missouri when I began only one, so far as I know, is still living. That is Ed Nix, formerly of Joplin who now resides in St. Louis.
Remodeled Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding and transforming run down homes, began buying Carthage properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to rebuilding them.
Mr. Wiggins does not know exactly how many Carthage homes he has rebuilt but he has been able to count more than 200. In this work he has done the community a real service.
Mr. Wiggins has been a man of great energy and enterprise and has been active in every effort for the city's advancement.
Having seen Carthage grow from an insignificant village to its present proportions, he has an affection for the city which is genuine and deep rooted. Mrs. Wiggins shares the same sentiments, although her residence here has been only about two-thirds that of her husband.
The both love Carthage, and they have hundreds of friends in Carthage who love them and will join in the numerous felicitations pouring in upon them in connection with today's notable event.
____________
~ Note by Bill Boggess: now the rest of the story . . . .
~ Wiggins retired as vice-president from what was once, one of the two wholesale grocery supply companies in Carthage, the other being Griswald company, having once partnered with Walter S and John J Wells, in the Wells-Wiggins company, who around 1892 built the building located north side of the Methodist church, west side of 600 block at 605-607 south Main street. Wells' brother-in-law, L. Frank Woodward became a partner when Wiggins sold out. The Platt-Porter company bought Wells-Woodard company in 1911, then the L H Beck Casket company occupied the old 1892 quarters in 1920 when Platt-Porter moved to their new building at northwest corner of 6th & Main, across street west from the Y M C A, then they bought their competition, Griswold company in 1930. Walter S Wells left in 1931 when Cherry Griggs, husband of the bosses daughter, started as salesman. Later the Carthage Evening Press company moved to the empty Platt-Porter building at 6th & Main from their location on west 4th street.
P N Wiggins is also found on the 1909 City Directory as the president of Richardson Grocery at 413-415 south Main, with P N Richardson its vice president, ~ however this conflicts with other listings therein?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Death: at home in Carthage, Jasper county, Missouri at age 88 years, from complications of heart disease,
The death certificate can be viewed at Missouri Digital Archives/death certificates online website.
informant: son, Raymond Wiggins, Ordway, Colorado. Funeral under direction of Knell Mortuary of Carthage, MO
FATHER: Thomas Wiggins
Birthplace: Ross County, Ohio
MOTHER: Mary (Alms) Wiggins
Birthplace: West Moreland County, Pennsylvania
∭∭∭∭
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
April 27, 1949
P. N. WIGGINS IS DEAD AT 88
PROMINENT PIONEER HAD LIVED HERE 80 YEARS
Coming With Parents in Covered Wagon, He Played Important Role in Development of Carthage
P. N. Wiggins, 88, widely known Carthage resident and prominent for many years in the business life of this city, died at 6:26 o'clock last night at the family home, 615 Grant street. He had been in failing health several years and the last two weeks his condition had been critical. His sons, Phillis N. Wiggins of Dallas, and Clarence Wiggins of Houston, who were here for a time at the bedside of their father returned to their respective homes, but yesterday were notified of his grave condition and returned last night. There were accompanied here by their wives. The other son, Raymond Wiggins of Ordway, CO., has been her several days, and was joined here last night by his wife.
Peter Nelson Wiggins had been a resident of Carthage about 80 years. He was born September 30, 1860 in Altona, Knox county, Illinois. He came here in May, 1869 from Circleville, Ohio and had been a resident of Carthage since.
By River to St. Louis
In an interview with THE PRESS a few years ago Mr. Wiggins said his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wiggins made up their minds early in 1869 to leave Ohio. Food supplies in that state were high in price and hard to obtain. Mr. Wiggins said, recalling that during one year the family had but one sack of white flour and the remainder of the time they had only corn meal from which to make bread. His parents determined to join the throngs going west to grow up with the country. His father, then 49 years old, and the elder children, set out for Cincinnati with his household goods and a team of horses, which he loaded on an Ohio river steamboat bound for St. Louis by way of Cairo and then up the Mississippi. They were on the steamboat two weeks before they reached St. Louis, where the horses, household goods and Mr. Wiggins and his children, were transferred to a Missouri Pacific train for Sedalia, then the western terminus of the road.
After outfitting his party with a covered wagon they set out for Carthage, camping out and preparing their meals as they made the various stages of the trip. Mrs. Wiggins and the other four children, including the son, P. N., left Ohio after Mr. Wiggins found a home for them. They made to trip by train to St. Louis and from there to Sedalia where the father met them with the covered wagon to bring them to Carthage. Thomas Wiggins died in 1902 and his wife passed away in 1913.
Street Named for Father
Wiggins street in the south part of Carthage was named for Thomas Wiggins. The original Wiggins home is at the intersection of Wiggins and Garrison [southeast corner], now owned by the Col. and Mrs. E. N. Hackney. P. N. Wiggins lived at that location while obtaining his early education in Carthage. At the age of 17 he went to work as clerk for J. J. Wells, who had a grocery store on the east side of the square. Later Mr. Wells moved to the south side of the square and became a wholesale grocer. Mr. Wiggins became the partner of Mr. Wells and the firm then was known as the Wells & Wiggins Grocery Company.
In 1892 a building was erected as the new home of the Wells & Wiggins Grocery company at a location just north of the Methodist church on South Main Street. The building was used as a wholesale grocery for many years and is occupied by the Beck Casket Company.
On May 6, 1891 P. N. Wiggins was married to Clara Alice Phillis. The couple was married at the ranch home of Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Steinmetz, six miles north of Pueblo, Colorado. The Steinmetz family formerly lived in Carthage. Mrs. Steinmetz was a sister of Mrs. Wiggins.
Mr. Wiggins sold his interest in the grocery business in 1906 to L. Frank Woodward. For a short time he was interested in mining and then formed a partnership with Fon Johnson of Joplin in the brokerage business and they operated extensively for many years. The company offices were in Joplin. However, Mr. Wiggins continued to make his home in Joplin.
Rebuilt Many Homes
In the twenties Mr. Wiggins, who had unusual ability in rebuilding transformed old properties which needed rehabilitation and for many years gave his entire attention to home rebuilding operations. He continued in the real estate business until his retirement a number of years ago.
Mr. Wiggins served as a member of the city council in about 1900. He was on the board of directors of the Carthage National Bank, which merged with the Bank of Carthage years ago, and was a member of the Jasper County Building Association. At one time he was a member of the Rotary Club.
Surviving are his wife; the three sons, and the following grandsons: William and Pete N. Wiggins, III of Dallas and Robert Wiggins of Houston.
Last of His Family
Mr. Wiggins was the last of the family. His brothers and sisters and the dates of their deaths follow: Henry A. Wiggins, 1927; Louisa Fritts, 1927; Marinda Wiggins, 1936; Thomas L. Wiggins, 1940; Manda Carnahan, 1947; There were three half brothers, John Wesley Wiggins, Stephen Wiggins and William A. Flowers and a half sister, Catherine Rose.
Harold Wiggins of Carthage is a nephew of Mr. Wiggins.
Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Knell service home with the Rev. R. H. Bodine, pastor of the First Methodist church in charge. The body will be placed in Oak Crest Abbey in Park Cemetery.
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