Remembering the Herbert family
By CHARLES HERBERT
Overland Park
William Herbert was one of Peabody's first settlers. Arriving from Wales in 1872, he began farming with his wife, Elizabeth, and three children, Clarice, Charlotte, and Osmond Arthur (O.A.). William died a year later, but his descendants would live in Peabody for more than a century.
Clarice and Charlotte married into the Clark and Spencer families. O.A. (1870-1952), who was born in New York harbor when the family arrived in America, carried on the Herbert name through his marriage to Mary Francis Montgomery (1883-1966). They had seven children, Carroll, Donald ("Tiny"), Lloyd, Douglas, Florence, Osmond ("Ossie"), and Arlene. The last of that generation of Herberts died earlier this year.
As young men, the Herbert boys played football for Peabody High School. This was no small feat, since their father, O.A., didn't like sports. Their mother had to toss the boys' uniforms to them out an upstairs window, so they could practice without their dad knowing. Fortunately, he finally relented and even attended some games.
At one time, there were three Herberts on the same team: Douglas at quarterback, Lloyd at fullback, and "Tiny" anchoring the line. In the 20s, one of the Peabody 11s led by the Herberts was widely regarded as the best team in the state. Lloyd went on to become an all-conference running back at Emporia State.
Carroll (1904-1986) was the eldest Herbert son. He married Avis Jones in 1937. They had three children: Rodney, Pamela, and Brice, who died of polio as a young boy. Carroll and Avis were lifelong residents of Peabody. Carroll worked as a mail carrier and Avis operated a beauty shop. Carroll was an avid photographer.
Donald ("Tiny") (1907-1971) married Garnett Skinner in 1931, and both were lifelong Peabody residents. Tiny worked for many years at DeForest Hatcheries. Later, he and Garnett operated a restaurant in Peabody. They had one son, Neil, who died in 2001. Neil was married to Doris Haas, also from Peabody.
Lloyd (1908-1999) married Clara Dody in 1931. They had two daughters: Pat and Donna. The family lived for many years in Emporia. Lloyd and Clara also lived for several years in Overland Park. Lloyd's working career was spent with Santa Fe Trailways trucklines in Emporia and Overland Park.
Douglas (1910-1998) married Mary Grubb in 1934. They had five children: Diana, Billie, Sylvia, Christine, and Charles. The family lived in Marion about 20 years, but moved to Wichita in the early '50s. Doug worked as a hatchery man, but after retirement, he purchased a farm near Rose Hill and raised vegetables for 25 years.
Osmond ("Ossie") (1914-1983) was a successful businessman in Liberal. He had three children: Osmond Jr., Robert, and Rebecca. Ossie married Louise Britt in 1955. They returned to Peabody and lived in the old stone house located west of town. Later, they redecorated and lived in the hotel in Peabody. Ossie also served as county commissioner.
Arlene (1919-1994) was blessed with a beautiful singing voice and often performed in church. In 1943, she married Dean Siegfreid, who worked for the railroad in Newton. They spent many years in Strong City and Peabody raising their family. They had four children: Stuart, Arlen, Lynette, and Troy. Dean and Arlene spent their later years in Lawrence.
Florence (1912-2004) married J.P. (Jerry) Mattison in 1932. They had three children: Shirley, Herb, and Steve. Jerry and Florence raised their family and spent their lives in Newton, where they owned and operated the Davis Paint and Wallpaper store. Florence also was a talented artist. Florence was the last of the seven Herbert siblings to die. Two of the Herbert spouses are still living: Mary Herbert in Wichita and Louise Herbert in North Newton.
The Herberts were never wealthy, but they were hardworking, religious, and family-oriented. Those who lived in Peabody were actively involved in all aspects of Peabody life for 125 years. Carroll's wife Avis, who died in 1997, was the last of the Herbert family members to reside in Peabody.
The original seven Herbert children are now gone. Their descendants live in communities throughout the U.S., but gather in Peabody frequently for family reunions. This often occurs on the Fourth of July, just as it did for many years when Tiny and Garnett hosted their big Independence Day picnic for the Herbert and Skinner families. This year's Herbert family reunion will be at Peabody Senior Center on the Fourth. It will mark the third straight year the family has entered a float in the parade.
All the Herbert descendants value their roots in Peabody. It is a great town with many great traditions, and for the Herbert family, many wonderful memories.
