Emmett & Elsie as a young couple

Emmett Touby and Elsie Locke

Their homes were about seven miles apart, but the distance (rather significant in the late 19th-early 20th century rural setting) did not hamper Emmett's efforts to woo the sweet Elsie Locke.  They had mutual friends... Elsie's cousins, Tom and Kate Locke, went to Rich Valley School with Emmett.  It wasn't long before they got acquainted.

Rich Valley School on Road 500 N.

Emmett was used to traversing country roads.  He graduated from Kokomo High School which meant several trips between home on the farm and town -- even rooming in town at times -- to finish his schooling.  After high school he pursued a two-year degree at Kokomo Business School.  All the while he continued to help his father on the farm.  And continued to pursue his interest in Elsie!  Like her mother, Settie Graf Locke, Elsie also decided to go to college.  She was determined to study home economics at Indiana State Normal School, packed her two suitcases, and boarded the train for Terre Haute. It wasn't long before she devoted herself to her other interest: Emmett.  Emmett was 26 and Elsie was 20 when they married on Christmas Eve of 1914. 

Emmett comes calling on Elsie.  In front of the Locke home.

Elsie's brother, Ross, with Emmett (right).

Elsie and friends at Indiana State Normal School (now ISU)

Elsie's college friends visit at the farm.

Emmett (on left in carriage), Elsie on far right.

Emmett and Elsie at the Locke farm.

The Touby home.

Emmett and Elsie (on left) with friends.

Emmett and Elsie's wedding photo.