John T. Bell, Pioneer Omaha Citizen, Dies In Home Of Daughter

John T. Bell, a pioneer Omaha citizen, died during the holidays at the home of his daughter in Seattle, Wash., according to a letter received by James B. Haynea yesterday from Mrs. Bell. Mrs. Bell says that her husband died suddenly while waiting for a street car in the downtown district.

Mr. Bell will be remembered by the older citizens of Omaha as a public-spirited man, devoting much of his time to the public good. In 1890 he was one of several citizens who donated the 15 acres of land to the city for park purposes, which is now known as Elmwood park. He was also one of the organizers of the Omaha public library and for years was very active in library work.

He was connected with Judge James W. Savage for many years as a court stenographer and collaborated with Judge Savage in compiling the Savage-Bell “history of Omaha,” published in 1894.

Mr. Bell returned to Omaha about a year ago and wrote a small book, “Memories of Omaha,” which was thoroughly appreciated by the older citizens of the city.

Note: Since the actual death date was not given, the news article date was used.

~~~ Obituary courtesy of the Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair Public Library at Blair, Nebraska.~~~