Another unusual house

[Delmonico]

Picture 10078 taken in 1886:



Owned an built by Charles R. Mathews of New Helena, Nebraska, a very early settler in what would become Custer County, Mr.  Mathews homesteaded in 1874, making him one of the first permanent settlers in the area.  Part of his homestead is now Victoria Springs State Park and the "Dog Run" cabins still exist.  This area had some timber and Mr. Mathews have came from his native state of Virgina at age 31 built his home in a style that was popular back home.  The home also served as the post office for the New Helena community.  Mr. Mathews also served as a judge.



Pictured from left to right: Oscar Smith, James Forsythe, and Charles R. Mathews.



Note the cellar under the cabin on the right:



Jug and crock near the building.



What is really interesting is the boxes and bottles of mineral water:



Mr. Mathews also bottled and sold mineral waters from the springs for several years.

I have been at this place and have drank the waters, yes it is well worth bottling.