Wiley Swepston

Uncle Wiley Swepston, Halstead's only colored citizen, who had made his home here for twenty-five years was found dead on the floor in his home Saturday by John Spore who had called to see about some laundry.  Mayor Eymann owned the property in which the old colored man had been allowed to live and call his home free of rent for many years was called to the scene.  A brother of the deceased was reached by telephonoe in Topeka and he came down to attend the funeral.  At the funeral the Methodist church was filled to overflowing by the best people in town.

Wiley Swepston was a native of North Carolina and was known by the Allens and Browns who came from that state, for more than fifty years.  He was about 75 years of age and had never married  He had a kindly nature, strict honesty and deep regard for what was right and wrong. 

The remains were laid to rest in the City Cemetery being followed by one of the largest funeral processions seen here in many years.

The Paxton neighborhood was shocked to hear of Uncle Wiley's death.  We all know he was a good man and his pleasant face will be missed by all.