THE WINFIELD COURIER.
[FROM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1884, THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 1884.]
D. A. MILLINGTON, EDITOR.
ED. P. GREER, LOCAL EDITOR.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
THE WATER WORKS DECISION.
Following is the full text of the decision of Judge Torrance in the water works case, in which Bliss & Wood are plaintiffs, and the Winfield Water Company is defendant.
STATEMENT OF CASE.
The decision of this case arises upon a general demurrer interposed by the plaintiffs to the defendant=s answer. The petition in the case, in substance, alleges that the plaintiffs are owners of a mill pond on the Walnut River, in this county, and of lands adjacent thereto, upon which they have constructed a valuable flouring and grist mill, which they are operating by means of the water power furnished by said mill pond; that the defendant is a private corporation created under the laws of this State, and that it has constructed and is operating a system of water works in the city of Winfield, for the purpose of supplying said city with water, and for that purpose is diverting large quantities of water from the plaintiffs= said mill pond. The petition prays for a perpetual injunction. By way of defense to the cause of action stated in plaintiffs= petition, the defendant in its answer, alleges that it is a private corporation, duly incorporated under the laws of this State, for the purpose of constructing and maintaining, adjacent to and within the city of Winfield, a system of water works for the purpose of supplying said city with water; that said city of Winfield is a city of the second class, duly incorporated as such under the laws of this State; that the Mayor and Councilmen of said city duly passed an ordinance granting to Frank Barclay, J. L. Horning, J. Wade McDonald, W. C. Robinson, J. B. Lynn, W. P. Hackney, and M. L. Robinson, and their assigns, the privilege of constructing, operating, and maintaining, for the period of ninety-nine years, a system of water works within the corporate limits of said city, for the purpose of supplying its inhabitants with water, and for the better protection of said city against disaster from fires. This ordinance invests the grantees named therein with full power, for the period of ninety-nine years, to lay pipes in the streets, alleys, and other public places within said city, and to extend such pipes, and to erect hydrants, fountains, conduits, or such other useful and ornamental structures as may be necessary for the successful operation of such works. The ordinance further provides that at the expiration of certain specified periods, after the completion of the works, the city shall have the right to purchase the works from the grantees named in the ordinance, or their assigns, upon terms and conditions expressed in the ordinance. The ordinance in terms provides that it shall constitute a contract between the city and the grantees named therein, and their assigns, and shall be binding on all parties upon the acceptance of its provisions by the grantees named therein, or their assigns. In section 14 of the ordinance, the city expressly agrees as a part of the franchise and contract embraced in the ordinance, that it will, upon the request in writing of the grantees named therein, or their assigns, proceed without delay to exercise its right of eminent domain in the condemnation of any lots, parcels, or pieces of ground, or of water or any water privilege, that may be necessary to the proper and convenient construction and maintenance of the system of water works provided for in the ordinance, provided the said grantees, or their assigns, shall pay all costs and expenses incident to such condemnation proceedings, including the cost of all property so condemned. This section also provides that the right to the free and exclusive use and enjoyment of all property so condemned shall vest and remain in said grantees, and their assigns, so long as the franchise and contract provided for in the ordinance shall remain in force and effect. The answer of the defendant further alleges that, after the passage, and due publication of said ordinance, the grantees therein named duly assigned to the defendant corporation all the right, title, and interest granted to and vested in them, under the provisions of said ordinance; that afterwards the defendant notified said city of the fact of such assignment, and that as such assignee it accepted the franchise and contract granted by and embodied in said ordinance, and that the city of Winfield thereupon assented to such assignment, and accepted the defendant in the place and stead of the original grantees named in the ordinance; that afterwards, and in pursuance of section 14 of said ordinance, the City Council of said city proceeded to condemn, and did condemn in its own name, the right to forever divert from the said mill pond of the plaintiffs, sufficient quantities of water to operate and maintain a system of water works, and to supply the inhabitants of the city of Winfield with water therefrom. These condemnation proceedings were had under the provisions of an act of the Legislature of the State entitled, AAn act authorizing cities to construct water works,@ approved February 27th, 1872, and a subsequent act of the Legislature, amendatory thereof, approved March 8, 1883, and the proceedings seem upon their face to be regular and valid. The answer further alleges that the defendant corporation afterwards constructed the system of water works provided for in said ordinance, and that it is now operating the same, and is diverting from the plaintiffs= mill pond, by virtue of such condemnation proceedings, only such quantities of water as are necessary for the operation of its works in the supplying of the city of Winfield with water.
OPINION OF THE COURT.
The power of eminent domain, or the right of the public to appropriate private property to public uses, is one of the attributes of political sovereignty. This power remains dormant, and is unavailable even to the State itself, until legislative action is had, pointing out the occasions, the modes, and conditions under which it may be exercised. The Legislature may at once by direct legislative enactment, appropriate property; or it may delegate such authority to some public or private agency to be exercised by it upon the occasions, and in the mode and under the conditions specified in the act conferring the right. But no person nor corporation, either public or private, however pressing may be the public necessity therefor, is competent to employ the power of eminent domain unless such power has been expressly vested in said person or corporation by an act of the Legislature; and then only in the mode and under the conditions and for the uses expressed in the act. This legislative delegation of the right of eminent domain partakes of the nature of a personal appointment or trust, and the authority thus conferred cannot be delegated to another, or in any manner transferred or assigned, by the person or corporation clothed with the power by the act of the legislature. It seems to me that the principles of law thus far stated are clearly supported by the text writers upon the subject, and by the adjudged cases. The question now arises whether a city of the second class, empowered to exercise this right by the act of the legislature above referred to, for the purpose of supplying its inhabitants with water, has the power to contract with a private corporation, organized under the laws of this state for the purpose of supplying such city with water, to condemn the necessary lands and water privileges to enable such private corporation to construct and operate its waterworks, and in pursuance of such contract lawfully condemn the lands or water privileges of third persons for the benefit of such private corporation. It seems to me that this is a correct statement of the question of law raised by the demurrer to the defendant=s answer. It is true the city of Winfield may in one sense be benefitted by the use of the water proposed to be furnished by the defendant corporation. It is also true that when a private corporation is duly empowered by the legislature to take private property for the construction of works of public utility, the fact that it has a pecuniary interest in the construction of such works does not preclude it from being regarded as a proper agency in respect to the public good which is sought to be promoted. Under our statutes, however, a private water corporation has no authority delegated to it by the legislature to exercise the right of eminent domain. So it seems to me that the contract of the city of Winfield to secure the necessary condemnation proceedings was primarily, and in the just sense of the term, for the benefit of the defendant corporation. The ordinance itself provides that the exclusive use and enjoyment of the property condemned by the city shall vest and remain in the grantees therein named, and their assigns. The act of our legislature under which the condemnation proceedings were had in this case is entitled, AAn act authorizing cities to construct waterworks.@ This act grants to cities of the second class full power and authority, on behalf of such cities, to contract for and procure the construction of waterworks for the purpose of supplying the inhabitants of such cities with water for domestic use, the extinguishment of fires, and for manufacturing and other purposes. It provides that the city council shall have power and authority to condemn and appropriate, in the name and for the use of the city, any such lands or water privileges, located in or out of the corporate limits thereof, as may be necessary for the construction and operation of such waterworks. It further provides that when the council shall determine to condemn any land or water privilege for the purpose aforesaid, it shall cause a petition to be presented in the name of the city to the judge of the district court of the county in which said city is situated, setting forth the necessity of the appropriation of lands or water privileges for the erection and operation of waterworks, and requesting the appointment of three commissioners to lay off and condemn such lands or water privileges as may be necessary for such purpose, and to make an appraisement and assessment of damages. The act provides that the subsequent proceedings shall be governed by the provisions of the statute relative to the condemnation of lands by railroad corporations (with but one exception), so far as the same are applicable. It also provides that upon the completion of the condemnation proceedings the city shall be vested with the right to perpetually use the property condemned for the purpose of such water works. The act also empowers the council to issue the bonds of the city to defray the cost of such water works, after the question of their issue has been determined in the affirmative by a majority of the electors of such city. The act further empowers and makes it the duty of the council to fix the rate of water rents to be paid by consumers, and to ordain such rules and regulations, with appropriate penalties for the violation of the same, as the council may deem proper for the regulation and protection of such water works, and, lastly, the act authorizes the council to appoint such engineers and other officers to superintend and operate such water works, both during and after the construction of the same, as may be necessary, and to do all acts and things for the erection, operation, alteration, and repair of such water works as may from time to time, in the judgment of the council, be necessary. It is evident, both from the title and body of this act, that it was the intention of the legislature to empower cities of the second class to construct water works for their own benefit and at their own expense, and to have the exclusive control and management of the same. And to this end the act authorizes the city council to exercise the right of eminent domain in the condemnation and appropriation of such lands and water privileges as may be necessary for that purpose, in the name and for the perpetual use of the city in the maintenance and operation of such water works. The only warrant which the city has is to be found in this act; and the only authority conferred by the act is the appropriation of property for the benefit of the city alone. When the property of an individual is sought to be divested against his will by authority of law, courts should not permit the authority conferred to be extended by intendment beyond the fair import of the language used, and should require a strict compliance with the provisions of the law by which the authority is delegated. If the legislature had intended that the power of eminent domain should be invoked in aid of water works to be constructed by private water corporations, it would have delegated the right to exercise such power to such corporations themselves, or to some other agency empowered to act on their behalf. The fact that the legislature has omitted to do so is satisfactory evidence to my mind that it did not intend to delegate the power in such cases. I have had but little time to examine the law bearing upon the point involved in this demurrer, and I would be very loth to thus hastily decide this case if I thought there was any probability that my decision would finally determine the rights of the parties. I thought it proper however, as the matter to be determined was of some general interest to the citizens of this city, to reduce the reasons for my decision to writing. In my present view of the law I am of the opinion the demurrer should be sustained, and it is so ordered.
E. S. TORRANCE, Judge.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
PRAIRIE HOME NEWS.
Mrs. Miles= little boy is very sick with measles.
Miss Allie Baker was the guest of Miss Ida Crane on Sunday and Monday.
A. Bechtle=s little girl has been very low with pneumonia fever, but is recovering rapidly.
BIRTH. Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Barr are entertaining a young lady visitor. From all appearances she has come to stay.
Some of the Prairie Homeites attended the Tisdale Literary Society last Friday night and report an Ainteresting@ time.
Last Wednesday afternoon our neighbor, M. C. Christopher, met with the loss of his house by fire. The fire was not discoveered until the flames burst through the roof. Several neighbors were on the spot almost as soon as the flames were discovered, and ten minutes after the alarm of Afire@ was given, twenty men were battling with the fire fiend, but to no avail. The wind was blowing furiously, and the fire had gained so much headway before being discovered that it was impossible to check it. Most of the furniture and articles of value were saved.
A party of five Prairie Homeites (we will withhold the names this time, boys) took a trip to the Territory last Saturday to explore the reported AHaunted House,@ but found upon reaching the house not only one but six Aghosts.@ The house proved to be inhabited, and the family occupying it have not as yet been disturbed by any Aspectral@ visitations. As soon as morning came the boys skipped for home, and if you want to see a sold crowd, just say AHaunted House.@ CHARITY.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MT. WASHINGTON SCRAPS.
Corn gathering is about over.
Good health reigns with us this winter for which all should be truly thankful.
A few Constant friends spent an evening this week with the Misses Lulu and Lillie Walton.
Invitations are out for a social at the residence of Charles Rosebesrry. As I have been there, I predict a good time.
Our school taught by Miss Ramage is in a prosperous condition; both teacher and scholars being hard at work to make it a success.
Two or three old fashioned spelling schools have been held at our schoolhouse at which pleasure and profit were combined. As several teachers were present, it did the children good to see one wilt occasionally.
Supt. Limerick was presented one of our social events this winter and used his opportunity of talking to the people about taking an interest in our common schools. His remarks and advice were good and should be followed by all parents.
J. H. Wooley was called to his old home in Indiana by the death of his father a few weeks ago. As Mrs. Wooley and Mmiss Ramage are keeping Abachelor hall,@ a few friends from Constant and vicinity spent last Thursday evening with them. Their refreshments consisted of oysters, candies, apples, etc. Among the guests were Misses Jence [?Jance?], Edith Holland, Nettie Anderson, Dillo, Lulu and Lillie Walton; Messrs. Feuquay [?Fenquay?], Timmerman, Brown, Myres, H. Hand, and Huff. A pleasant time generally was enjoyed.
On the evening of the 25th, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Wright celebrated their crystal wedding. A pleasant time was enjoyed. The following is a list of some of the presents received.
Mr. and Mrs. Turner, cake stand and water pitcher.
Mr. and Mrs. Woolsey, wter pitcher.
Mr. and Mrs. Richardson, fruit dish.
Mrs. Crow, case of perfumery.
Mr. and Mrs. Ramage, dessert dishes.
Mr. and Mrs. Allen, bread plate.
Mr. and Mrs. Snow, individual salt cups.
Mrs. Wooley, goblet.
Mr. Parson, dessert cups.
Mr. and Mrs. Walton, bread plate.
Mr. and Mrs. Chafee, water pitcher.
Also the same evening an oyster suppera t the new residence of Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham was pronounced a success by all. Nearly fifty guests were present.
A. H. G.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
RECOLLECTIONS.
After an absence of four years, none can be more astonished than I to note the change and improvements in our young city, Winfield.
When I hear the peals of the church bells, the shriek of the locomotive, the rumbling of the cars every hour of the day, to the north, the east, the west, and south, and see the black smoke curling up from the tall stacks of mills and elevators, I ask, has this all been done in four years? The answer comes back, four and one-half years ago no steam whistle had been heard in this county. This is proof to me, Mr. Editor, that the soil, climate, and people of our county cannot be excelled.
January 29, being the 23rd birthday of the state of Kansas, was duly celebrated by our public schools. We visited ten school rooms where the joy of the young people knew no bounds. We heard music, vocal and instrumental; all of the early history, trials and struggles of young Kansas. The rooms were all gaily decorated with paintings, flowers, flags, fruits, and grains, with beautiful mottoes prepared by the children of each grade, in beautiful artistic style. We give a few: AKansas Our Home!@ AKansas the Key to Freedom,@ AKansas 1861COur 23rd Birthday,@ in the primary rooms. Kansas darlings! We are proud of them and the great seal of Kansas. When the schools were dismissed, the scholars, teachers, and visitors went from one building to another until all the rooms had been visited. We were struck with the fine bearing of the scholars as they marched from room to room keeping time to the music furnished by the advanced grades, while the smiles of the professor and corps of teachers lit up the halls. A.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MAPLE TOWNSHIP.
D. S. Haynes= new store adds much to the improvement of the village of Red Bud.
A new bridge has arrived and will be put across Pole Cat Creek east of Walter Jacobus.
The singing at Red Bud last Thursday evening was well attended and everybody seemed to enjoy themselves.
We have been informed that Adam Walck has sold his farm and is going to move down below Winfield, but can not vouch for the truth of it.
Our Lyceum is still booming. The question for discussion next Saturday is AResolved, That capital punishment should be abolished.@ The chief disputants are Ed. Walck on the affirmative and Frank Daugherty on the negative.
Judging from the crops we raised this year, I think we live in a good part of the county. Corn on the bottom land yielded from sixty to eighty bushels per acre. The upland yielded from thirty-five to fifty bushels. We also have plenty of good building rock for which thee is quite a call at present; in fact, it is hard work to supply the demand just now. JERRY.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The city of Newton, Harvey County, is to have a system of waterworks, and a company for the purpose of building, maintaining, and operating such a system has been incorporated under the state laws. The capital stock of the company is $100,000, and the diretors for the first year are R. M. Spivey, S. T. Marsh, E. H. Hoag, and Julius Simon of Newton and James Hill of Arkansas City.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARKCOUR TRIP CONTINUED.
As we promised in our last, we now take up our line of march to visit the Fire-hole basin, sometimes called Lower Geyser basin. This was on the first day of SeptemberCand let me say here, for the benefit of others, that this is decidedly the best time in the year to visit the Park. Entering, as we did, from the north, the roads fork to the right, crossing the two branches of the Fire-hole River, the headwaters of the Madison. After crossing these two branches, you come to the Pioneer Hotel, at the point where the Virginia and Bever Canon road enters the park. The government has a storehouse here for the keeping of supplies for the use of the men employed in improving roads and bridges, also a blacksmith shop, for the same purpose and for the accommodation of the traveling public. From the hotel to the east may be seen the rising steam of many hog springs, the most notable among the number being the Queen=s Laundry, appropriately named, as it is frequently used for cleaning garments, by throwing them in, and after being held in agitation in its seething caldron a few hours, they are taken out perfectly cleaned.
Near this place is Fairy Falls, where the water makes a perpendicular leap of two hundred and fifty feet. There are a great many hot springs at this place, and by going close to them, which can be done with perfect safety, you can see the fantastically-shaped and coral-decked walls are not only firm, but special objects of beauty that seem to prompt involuntary exclamations of wonder and surprise; and this is further heightened when you come to look down through their tinted but wonderful clear water to an immeasurable depth. The fountain is the only one in the system that most resembles a geyser in its habits. It has a throat or rather crater of about twenty-five feet in diameter from which the water is thrown in vast quantities sixty feet in height, and then falls back in glistening globules. If it were not for the tourists having heard of the upper geyser basin, they would pronounce this a natural fountain of marvelous beauty. It acts about every six hours.
A short distance to the east from this geyser, through some scattering trees, is a group of paint or mud pots. They occupy about 50 feet square. The surrounding rim or rather crater is about three feet high and perfectly safe to walk upon. In the one end (to the south, I think it is) is almost snow white boiling mud, while the other end is a bright pink and is somewhat thicker in consistency, boiling and forming numerous little craters with the orifices through which hot mud is thrown at intervals. The noise is similar to but greater than that of thick boiling hasty pudding. The white end boils more rapidly and its mud is agitated over its entire surface. These disturbances create peculiar shapes, and singular noise is made by escaping gas or steamCmost interesting and truly wonderful.
From here to Hells Half Acre is five miles up the river on the right hand side. If you can imagine a road smooth, rough, level, hilly, hard, soft, and several corduroy crossings, interspersed here and there on both sides with some of the most beautiful little evergreen groves in the world, you have a good idea of our surroundings while making this short distance.
This interesting and very conspicuous object lies on the left hand or opposite side of the river from the road and cannot be missed. A short dist ance below the river is fordable with buggies, but most of the tourists hitch their horses and cross on a foot bridge made for that purpose. The geyser to which this rather impious name is applied, though by no means a misnomer, is close to the bank of the river and considerably elevatedCthe elevation being the formation of an ancient hot spring which this geyser is now ruthlessly engaged in destroying, undermining as it does its own banks; and the rocks that cave in from the top are thrown out by its powerful eruptions. This enlargement has advanced until at present its area is little less than half an acre and its walls from twenty to thirty feet high. Unlike all other geysers, it builds no cone or crater of its own. Its only object seems to be destruction as if prompted by anger. Its waters are at all times in a boiling agitation and intensely hot, filling its orifice with such a vast column of white steam, looking more like a foaming mist. And by remaining as you naturally will a short time to gaze into its maze of bewilderment till a passing breeze sweeps the steam away for a moment and you look down into this seething, boiling pit not with a feeling of pleasure but terror. This pool constantly discharges an immense amount of water and occasionally becomes air-charged and then raises its entire volume to the height of three hundred feet and majestically holds it steady for fifteen minutes at a time. A little cowardly wisdom at these times may often save the tourist the displeasure of carrying off with him an unpleasant memento of having been a living witness to one of those grand demonstrations especially as nearness adds nothing to the grandeur.
We had the misfortune of not seeing twin eruptions, but were told by the men who were at work at the bridge that it would raise the river eight inches in a few minutes, and they had to remove their mules and themselves for a considerable length of time on account of the heat.
Close by and a little further from the river is one of the largest hot springs in the park. Its boiling is so even and regular that it looks like a pile of water and its rim was built up so even that it overflows on all sides. So hot was its water that we were unable to remove a specimen from its edge at fingers depth without being scalded. The next five miles has nothing uncommon and little to attract attention save now and then a little complaint of tender overalls. Our pace was nevertheless increased and we galloped off to the upper geyser basin and went into camp for the next two days in the very midst of the crowning wonders of the world.
January 12, 1884.
The weather is all that the charms of winter could afford. Where the snow is not drifted it is 6 feet deep. One place in sight on Specimen Mountain is over a hundred. Mercury playing at zero, sometimes a little below, and as high as 32 above. It is said by Montana papers the winter is unprecedented for mildness. Bands of Elk in sight every day and graze within rifle shot of our quarters, and eat of our hay.
OUR VISIT IN THE UPPER GEYSER BASIN.
When nearing this basin, the first thing to attract the attention is a small jet thrown about sixty feet high, near the river bank, and it is called Riverside geyser. It acts three and four times a day and happened to be in full blast when we arrived. Close by on the other side is another, and on account of the spreading stream that it throws out, is called
THE FAN GEYSER.
Here the road crosses the river on a bridge. Nearby is what may be called a real geyser.
THE GIANT.
Its eruptions are irregular, but when it does act, its volume is seven feet in diameter and over two hundred high. Its grandeur is in the length of time it acts, which is about one hour and a half, and its deep underground rumbling is enough to fill a weak geyserite appetite at once. To the right is the
GROTTO GEYSER,
I supposed named from its peculiar shaped cavern-like crater. Instead of having a smooth opening at the top through which to discharge its waters, it is thrown out at the sides and churned and dashed around at a furious rate. It looks as though it would blow its grotesque grotto or cavern to atoms. This lasts thirty minutes. Twenty-five rods further on is the
COMET GEYSER.
To use the camp expression, it Agoes off@ four times a day. Its crater is rather large, regular, and very beautiful, has nothing uncommon to attract attention here, but no doubt if it were in the public square at Winfield, would be looked upon with some interest, but here it is very tame. To the right and near the edge of the basis is
THE SPLENDID GEYSER.
It goes off five and six times a day and sometimes in quick succession. It gives no notice of its going off, as most others do. I suppose the appearance of its display gave rise to its name. Then comes
THE DEVIL=S WELL.
To vary the scenery and to a great extent rest the strained curiosity of the sightseer, its waters have the same unnatural clearness peculiar to these boiling pools. Its temperature is above that of ordinary boiling water, and campers take advantage of it in cooking their victuals in it by suspending camp kettles to a pole laid across the topCquite a fuel saver and no possible danger of burning like the paint pots spoken of before. They can boil for centuries and not burn. Its depth is unknown and it boils very even, regular and slow, while only a few feet from it is
CASTLE GEYSER,
that is every moment in the most restless state. It is the noisiest geyser in the basin, constantly throwing its waters to the height of 20 or 30 feet, churning, growling, puffing, splashing, as if trying to go off, and angry because of a lack of water. This lack is made up every day or two, when it is thrown in an immense volume to the height of 100 feet, and lasts 30 minutes, followed with an escape of steam with such force as to be heard many miles distant, while close to its foot is the Devil=s Well, showing not the least signs of agitation. Next to it is a group of small geysers. The principal one from its peculiar, puffing noise of its action, is called
THE SAW MILL.
It acts about half of the time, looked upon as rather a small affair. The
LION, LIONESS, AND THEIR TWO CUBS
have built for themselves an imposing elevation and on the top have stationed themselves close together. The largest lion acts independent of the rest. The cubs usually act together. Their names are not a misnomer. Tourists are often suddenly frightened by the growling, while nothing can be seen at the time but empty craters. To the left and nearly at the head of the basin is the
GIANTESS GEYSER.
It seldom goes off, but its crater is always full of water and one can see many feet down its rough throat. It is said to throw a stream 250 feet high and last 15 hours. To the right and near the river is the
BEE HIVE GEYSER.
The symmetry of its crater is the finest in the park, resembling that on the sign board of the Bee Hive store, only much larger. The opening through the top is 2 feet in diameter. It goes off once in twenty-four hours and lasts 8 minutes, height 230 feet. At one time I stood full 20 rods away and received a bath usual to a small shower. It seems to act with very great force. When not in action its orifice is empty for many feet down. Crossing the river on a foot bridge of two logs, we come to the very head of the basin and here is located
OLD FAITHFUL GEYSER,
like an ever watchful sentinel or the ruler of a small empire, Old Faithful, so called on account of the regularity of his actions. Every 60 minutes he lifts his majesty to the height of 160 feet as if to look over the entire basin, and holds his imperial majesty for 3 to 5 minutes, then sinks back as if to count 60 minutes more and recruit his strength the time to repeat himself again. Thus faithful day and night, winter and summer, cold and warm, by his regularity has gained the admiration of all that ever saw him.
GRAND GEYSER,
By all who ever saw it, seems to pronounce it the most satisfactory. It is located near a rocky bluff and many tourists linger near it for whole days rather than miss seeing it go off, but my geyserite appetite was so completely glutted that I found more pleasure in the woods examining the craters of old volcanoes and admiring the lofty pines on the mountain side. Its actions are very irregular; but in the evening of the last day of our stay, the signal was given that the Grand Geyser was going off. I heard the rumbling noise and felt the underground pulsations, saw the excited tourists run, and white steam rise above the tall trees; but I had all the geyser that I could digest for the next two weeks, and was satisfied with the description by the rest of the company, and here it is. Mr. Sawyer, an old gentleman: AWeimer, I=d rather than five dollars you=d seen it, oh, it was grand.@ Mr. Everett. ABy George, Weimer, it went off five times and you might easily got there, why didn=t you run like the rest of =em? Why the whole for 200 feet high was covered with the purtiest rainbow you ever seen, and it would expand and contract just as the water did and when it sunk back in its hole the rainbow seemed to creep in after it, >By golly.=@
Thus day and night the scenes with the accompanying music go on, some lashing the air in angry fury with boiling water while others fill the air with groans of monster spirits writhing in agony on account of close confinement.
On a clear bright morning the basin looks like a great manufacturing city, only instead of the dirty, black smoke, there are white clouds of steam and in most places the surroundings are exquisitely clean.
At the close of the second day our visit of the place was complete, at least mine was. Here is the place that fatigue gives way to excited curiosity instead of relaxing pleasure. While the party was planning for an early start in the morning, the idea struck me how easily could providential power stop these many little safety valves and send the whole business through a hole in the sky. What a horrible thought to bid goodbye to woman suffrage, prohibition, fashion, and party platform to take a voyage in a little cataclysm as this.
Respectfully,
J. W. WEIMER.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH.
The following biographical sketch was taken from the history of Marion County, as compiled by Messrs. Lagett [?] Conaway & Co.
ROBERT KERR.
This well-known pioneer of Marion County was born in Miffflin County, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1870, and is the son of James and Betsy (Arbuckle) Kerr. The grandparents on both sides were natives of Ireland, named respectively James Kerr and William Arbuckle. Robert Kerr=s father was a farmer, and emigrated with his family to Knox County, Ohio, in 1818, where he bought a farm of 160 acres in Clay Township, on which Wm. Hays now resides. His wife, Betsy, died on this farm, aged 42 years; he subsequently sold his farm to his son, Robert, and moved to Licking County, Ohio, where he resided with his son-in-law, Aquilia Barber, until his death, at the age of eighty-seven years. Robert Kerr remained with his parents until nineteen years of age, receiving scarcely any advantages for securing an education. He now began to learn the tanner=s trade, at Martinsburg, Ohio, with Joseph Buyers, Senior, and completed his apprenticeship in two years and five months. By the end of this time, he hired out to drive hogs through to Baltimore, Maryland, at three shillings a day and board, excepting dinner, which he had to furnish himself, if he had any. On his return to Ohio, he found employment at general work around a saw-mill for several months, at $11 a month. While employed in the following harvest, he was prostrated by a fever. The sickness, with the expenses attached to it, soon took the greater part of his earnings. On his recovery, and for some time thereafter, he followed the business of clearing up land for different parties, at from $2.50 to $3.00 per acre. His part of the contract was complete when everything was cleared up within twelve inches of the ground; 113 acres or more ground was cleared up by him in that manner. While clearing the land he cut 1,000 cords of wood and upward, at twenty cents per cord, and made many thousand rails at 50 cents per hundred. About this time or a little while before, he had bought two eighty acre pieces of land, then in Scott Township, Marion County, but now in Crawford County; for the first eighty acres he paid $100; and for the other two, $200. He was married August 29, 1833, to Matilda Swaggart, a daughter of Daniel and Betsy (Coonrod) Swaggart, and at once commenced keeping house on his 160 acres of land. From this time he gave his attention to farming, clearing $100 cash the first year. About the third year on the farm, he began handling stock, which turned out tolerably well. He now for what money he had made, purchased 360 acres of land in Scott Township for $1,500, on five years time at six percent interest, payments to be made of $800.00 yearly. He stocked this land with sheep, and made enough money to meet his payments promptly as they fell due. He was then advised by an old Pennsylvanian, one Stephen Ulery, that he could make more money raising sheep than in anything else, and Mr. Kerr, acting upon his advice, bought quite a large number. The first year he sold his wool for 21 2 cents, the second for 22 2 cents, the third at 29 cents, the fourth at 33 2 cents, the fifth crop for 40, the sixth for 50, and the seventh at 80 cents per pound. The last year his receipts from the sale of wool and sheep amounted to $33,000. After this the price of wool declined to 50 cents, and kept going lower, and Mr. Kerr sold out all his sheep and quit the business. Up to 1876-77, his principal business had been handling sheep and stock, and he now owns a herd of 1,024 head of cattle in the Indian Territory, 1,059 acres of land in Crawford County, 443 acres in Wyandotte County, and 2,573 acres in Marion County. He was one of the original stockholders of the Farmers Bank, of Marion, Ohio, of which he is now president, and of the Nevada Deposit Bank, of Nevada, Ohio, and now owns a large amount of stock in each; he is also a stockholder in a bank at Winfield, Kansas, which has but recently been established. He built, and still owns the Kerr House at Marion, at a cost of $60,000, and the Kerr House, at Nevada, at a cost of $18,000; both fine buildings, are an ornament to the towns where they are located, and monuments that speak well for the enterprise of the builder. He has made various donations of considerable amounts, one of about $53,000 to Hiram College, and another of $23,000 to Bethany College, of Virginia, and various minor amounts to other institutions. He is the wealthiest citizen and largest land holder in this section of the country. He has 4,000 acres of land, free from incumbrance, and other property, which at a cash valuation, would amount to $600,000. This large property was acquired by forty-five years of untiring energy, combined excellent financial ability, and strict integrity in all business transactions. He was formerly a member of the Disciple church for many years; but, for what he considered unchristian conduct of the members of that church, has not been a member of any Christian denomination since. His wife, Matilda, died in February, 1859. By this marriage there were eleven children, six of whom are living, named Elizabeth, Sarah, Stephen, Mary, John, and Amanda. Mr. Kerr was married the second time, in July, 1861, to Martha Williams, by whom there was one child: Addie. On New Year=s day, 1883, Mr. Kerr met with a serious accident at Caledonia, while walking down the street, which was very icey, he slipped and fell, causing a fracture or dislocation of the hip joint on the left side, and has not been able to walk since, and has made his home at Nevada, Ohio. He lived for forty-four years on the place where he first commenced keeping house, but for the ten years previous to the accident above mentioned, had lived in a house erected on his land in Scott Township, a short distance from his old home. Barring his inability to walk, he is enjoying good health for a man of his age. He is now seventy-six.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
THE CORRUPTING POWER OF MONOPOLIES.
The San Francisco Examiner of January 12, published a statement respecting the $400,000, which Mr. Huntington, in his New York deposition, acknowledged having paid out, for which he had no vouchers, and for which, under oath, he could not account, except by saying that he paid it to agents and attorneys. A tabular statement shows that in 1876 he expended $190,000, presumably in fighting Scott=s Texas Pacific scheme, and in 1878 $118,000 in efforts to defeat the Thurman bill. Of the lump sum of $100,000 paid on March 1, 1879, no explanation is attempted. The Examiner concludes that as the House of Representatives is Democratic, an investigation is imperative.
The old story of the Titans is, in some respects, repeated in the history of railroad, telegraph, and other monopolies. We have no individual Titans or Herculeses now, but we have created artificial men by law of much greater power than ever was dreamed of in classic fable. A corporation is just a law created man. It may have many members, but it acts as one man. It has not all the rights of the natural man, but only such as the law confers upon it, and some of these are far more powerful than the individual man possesses; for instance, the right conferred upon railroads to go through and appropriate private property and the right of a continuous or perpetual existence. That gigantic creature of the Legislature, an incorporated body, may be enabled to amass wealth and water stock without limit; and it, in special cases, can afford to pay hundreds of thousands or perhaps millions of dollars, to influence the Legislature and the Bench to grant such privileges and make such decisions as it requires. In other words, it can make itself in all matters that interest it a controlling power in the Government of the State or Nation. Is this a wise or safe system? Have there not been enough of privileges granted to corporations? Is it not time to call a halt to the process of subjecting the public to monopolies of all kinds? Are not patent laws also in fault? For instance, the simple business of boring for water is patented, and through a large portion of Minnesota bore wells are a necessity. The patent enables the company which owns it to charge any price they like, even as much as the whole value of the farm, for boring a well, and there is no appealCno remedy. APay the extortionate price, or let your farm remain worthless for want of water,@ is the alternative submitted to the Minnesota farmers, who are threatening to rebel against the patent law.
Monopolies are the mothers of lobby, that excrescence and scandal of legislative assemblies, which in many cases rules them. A bill with much Amoney in it@ effectually helps up the venal legislator=s Apile.@ If the above unaccounted for amount of four hundred thousand dollars were all traced out from first to last, we would have the record of a crime smelling to heaven for rankness. How much of it was paid by lobby agents to legislators or their friends? How much stuck to the magnetic hands of the lobby? How much was pocketed by Huntington himself, and those who appointed him to be an irresponsible administrator of bribes? Surely an honest investigation should be had to ascertain these points; though, as Congress has no power to punish those who refuse to answer questions, and as Ahawks do not peck out hawk=s eyes,@ nothing might come of it. In all these cases of bribery to obtain exclusive privileges, the money paid goes into the cost of the enterprises, which the public is to pay back in the high prices or fares charged. Witness.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
[INTERESTING ARTICLE RE STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING, JAN. 15, 1884...Bound volumes added to library, 307; unbound volumes and pamphlets, 1,088; newspaper files, 403; single newspapers containing special historical material, 243; posters, cards, etc., 105; maps, 10; atlases, 2; manuscripts, 6,338; pictures, 235, relics, 77. From this statement it will be seen that the library additions during the year number 1,798 volumes.
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In the department of newspaper files, the collection has grown more rapidly than that of any other library in the country. . . . The Society is receiving the regular issues of 448 newspapers, of which 387 are published in Kansas, namely: weeklies, 304; dailies, 19; monthlies, 23; semi-weaklies, 1; semi-monthlies, 3; quarterlies, 1. . . .Article names members of the Board of Directors and officers.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
CONSTANT CHIMES.
We welcome the return of Mercury to its equilibrium.
The Shitzon brothers have purchased a combined corn sheller and grinder of the Challenge Mill Company, Batavia, Illinois. This is an economical as well as profitable investment for property preparing food for feeding hogs.
Tell it all, Jasper, it detracts very materially from the interest of a story to leave it unfinished. The romantic part you and a certain auburn haired damsel played in bringing up the year, and the subsequent relapse you suffered was the most amusing featurte of that rag-weed performance.
Who are we going to have for trustee this year? is a very pertinent question propounded by interested taxpayers just now. The present incumbent has attended fairly and faithfully to the duties of the office and deserves recognition for his efficient services by a re-election. The only objection raised is his weakness on prohibition.
Mr. R. B. Corson camped with ye reporter last night and secured a subscriber for the People=s Cyclopedia, for which he is canvassing the county. The work is a desirable one for the general reader, for two reasons, viz.: its brevity in discussing subjects of only practical interest and its very reasonable price of eighteen and twenty dollars.
Last Monday M. M. Markcum sold a carload of fat steers that netted the litle sum of one thousand and fourteen dollars. In calculating the cost of feeding them, he realized sixty cents per bushel for the corn feed: about twice the present market value. Our farmers who are hauling their corn to town would do well to stop and reflect on the profits and advantages of feeding it at home and marketing it in more concentrated form.
An epidemic is raging among the obstreperous school youths of District 4. Out of an enrollment of thirty, the attendance has been reduced to five. The girls seem to be its favorite victims, as there has not been a scholar of this sex, either big, little, tall, slim, short, or stout, in attendance for a week to cheer and brighten the gloomy hours of the pedagogue. The writer has an idea that the general health of the pupils has been disturbed by the teacher=s fogyish and barbarous method in calling school by whaling the schoolhouse with a long pole till the building fairly trembles and the neighborhood is distracted with the reverberating echoes. The teacher being a muscular specimen of the genus homo, is capable of striking heavy blows, and the colder the weather, the harder the beating the poor, old, helpless schoolhouse receives. It would be more prudent for the Board to purchase a bell for him than to repair the schoolhouse each term. Forty-five dollars a month ought to justify any teacher in providing himself with a more suitable instrument to attract the attention of his pupils. Otherwise, he is a hale good fellow and a competent instructor. MARK.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
OTTER NEWS.
Traveling north from Cedarvale, we passed Judge Gammon=s. There we were informed that he had sold his fat cattle.
We saw Mr. A. J. Barrus had moved into his new house.
Turning the corner at Rev. Sheek=s residence, we learned the Rev. was busy getting the AQuarterage@ for our pastor.
Arriving at Mr. Jones, we noticed his troubled countenance, asked the cause thereof, and was told his son, Jarvis, who has been visiting his father for some time, had gone west to Sedgwick again.
We were informed that Mr. J. Turner and family will remove from Otter=s peaceful neighborhood sometime during the last of February or first of March. His future hunting grounds will be near Grenola (until game gives out).
The light of Mr. Francis Stockdale=s countenance is illuminating this pleasant vale of ours, but he will soon depart for Colorado.
Continuing our journey westward, Miss Howland must be noticed next. She will wave her mystic wand for seven weeks to come, o=er her unruly Hectors.
Turning southward from her stronghold, we learned of Mr. Serviss= advent here, agitating the R. R. question.
At Mr. Bartholomew=s, we saw an Illinois family, which intends to locate here. We admire their judgment. Judge ye why!
Turning north again to Mr. Hempy=s, here we see that Mr. J. Burright is moving into Mr. Hempy=s old house. Mr. Burright has rented a portion of his (Mr. Hempy=s) farm for the coming season. On inquiring for the young gentleman, we were informed that they are not at home, but are attending the school at Ft. Scott.
Crossing the creek from this place we are told that a free fight has been indulged in by Mr. L. Baldwin and his son-in-law, Mr. Manson. Love for gain was the cause. No bones were broken.
As we had delightful weather for our journey over the country, we decided to return home ere we might be overtaken by a storm; noticing on our homeward way that those who are behind with their corn gathering are improving the pleasant days.
Now as we have given you all the news that there is at present from this section, we will add one word of advice to AJasper,@ who seems to have a serious time in retaining the affections of various young ladies; we would gently remind him that AA rolling stone gathers no moss.@ TIM & JERRY.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
FROM OTTER TOWNSHIP.
Everybody over here says Ahurrah@ for the Narrow Gauge road. They say the COURIER ought to join in and help us.
The school on Cedar is doing finely, from what we can learn from the boys. They say John lets them do about as they please. Euchre parties are common at the schoolhouse. Of course, the boys enjoy themselves.
The weather has been the coldest that we have had for several years. We are fearful that wheat is badly injured by freezing, as the ground was dry when the freeze came. Peach buds are badly injured. It is feared that we will not have another good peach crop this year. Stock of all kinds are wintering good.
A good many cattle are being fed through here, and still there is room for more. Corn is plenty and cheap. I understand Judge Gammon sold his lot of about 100 head for $5.25 per hundred. Other parties are feeding small lots on Otter Creek, and several lots on north and south Cedar. Mr. J. H. Serviss of Dexter is wintering his stock on his Cedar Creek farm this winter.
Hunting parties have been indulged in very freely since cold weather, and the rabbits have become scarce. The men would choose two for captains, and they would choose an equal number of men and hunt all day, then meet at Cedarvale and count scalps, and the losing party pay for an oyster supper for the crowd. Of course, the boys all enjoy themselves hugely. You see, they don=t have their wives and sweethearts there, and they can mix in a few bottles of beer and the other necessaries of life and have a good time generally. The last hunt was last Tuesday, the cold day, but they slew the rabbits all the same. Think they got about 70 on each side, or equivalent, but the boys got mixed up and could not tell which side they belonged to, so you see the supper is not paid for yet; but they got to all the same. To wind up the fun, the team got loose with Mr. Serviss= buggy and run till they tore it all to pieces. We will try and keep you posted on the hunting parties. JACK SUGGS.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
OTTER AND VICINITY.
Weather is no longer 16 below zero.
Cedarvale has harvested a fine crop of ice for next summer.
Jo. Doolen has rented the Widow Tompkins= farm for the coming year.
The Cedar Creek Literary Society was gathered to its fathers long ago.
BIRTH. Born to Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Craddock, a Agal baby,@ weighin nine pounds heavy weight.
A cattle man has just brough in and is feeding 90 head of steers on Mr. Ashworth=s place on Cedar Creek.
DIED. Mrs. Thomas Higgins died last week and Mr. Higgins is at the hotel in Cedarvale under medical care, and may die.
John Hefner has returned after an absence of three months, and looks as old as ever. By the way, he will soon be numbered among the Aold baches.@
Ramey, Kendal & Co. had the good fortune to lose their AOld Gray Hoss@ and thereby find a silver mine. Will not say more for fear of legal proceedings.
As our part of the country is sparsely settled and your correspondent is a Astay home@ sort of man, it is seldom he hears any gosspi to foward to ye editor.
Aspirants for township honors should begin to shake hands more freely than of yore, so that the Adear people@ may know who will have such and such an office.
Cedarvale is rapidly improving. Brown & Stapleton are having built a fine store building, size 90 feet deep with a 24 ft. front. Kemeson [?] & Son have commenced a large business house 40 ft. deep, 41 feet front, two stories high with hall above and two storerooms below: one room to be filled with dry goods and groceries, the other with hardware.
Most all with whom your correspondent has conversed on the subject, are in favor of the Narrow Gauge; provided, they will make the county a fair proposition and one that will be as binding on the R. R. Co., as on the people of the county. Most all of us are with you in the fight you make against their first proposition, save we are not caring for a depot in our township, if they have one at Cedarvale. OTTERITE.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
STRAWS FROM TANNEHILL.
Phinnie Marsh has been courting this week. Says he don=t like it very well.
Miss Mills, of Hutchinson, a cousin of the Misses Coulter, is visiting them at present.
Mr. Watt sold 26 hogs the other day which averaged 281 pounds each. Who can beat it?
Our Sunday school is in a flourishing condition under the management of K. J. Wright, Superintendent.
S. F. King says he can lick any school teacher of Beaver Township. Look out, boys, he is a good one.
The Christian Church at this place is about to secure the services of Rev. Frazee of Indiana to preach to them twice a month.
Mr. Bradbury gave an oyster supper Monday night for the benefit of the Sunday school, which was well attended and the nice little sum of $14 was cleared. Charlie=s wife knows how to cook =em.
Several of the young folks of this community took in an oyster supper at Mr. Cunningham=s on the evening of Jan. 25th. They report a good time although quite an accident happened to a couple of them. While driving along the road where there was a large ditch, the horse got tired of the road and tried the ditch, and as a result the occupants of the buggy were unloaded very precipitately. They have our sympathy! JOHN A.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
SANTA FE FREIGHT RATES. Messrs. Humphrey and Turner, railroad commissioners, are standing nobly up to their work and firmly resist the blandishments of the corporations. The late hearing of the motion for a new trial of the complaints of towns on the Santa Fe road resulted in the affirmation of the decision of Jan. 1, in all respects except that they reduce the distance rates for short distances a little. They give the railroad company 20 days in which to make up new tariff rates according to the decision.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
TARIFF NO. 3.
Fred Hunt=s third article on the tariff question, in the Telegram last week, is still mainly introductory. He makes a brief statement of what he calls the eight principle arguments of protectionists, the first of which he states as follows.
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1. The great prosperity and growth in material substances which the United States have enjoyed, has been brought about to a great extent by the protective system.@This he claims is Amere assumption,@ and that this prosperity, which he admits has been unprecedented and wonderful in the last twenty years under a high protective tariff, is not in consequence of, but in spite of protection. He then makes about a dozen Amere assumptions@ without the least evidence to support them, that protection is a system of robbery, making a scarcity instead of plenty, destroying some of our industries, taxing the poor to enrich the wealthy, is a Abird of prey,@ Aa leach that sucks blood,@ a grievous burden, and similar rhetoric are common with those who are destitute of arguments, and then proceeds to state the causes of the wonderful prosperity of this county in the last years as follows.
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The natural vigor and energy of the American people.A
The great deposits of mineral wealth in the United States.A
The liberal homestead and preemption laws of the government which has caused the rapid settlement of the country.A
The rich and virgin character of the soil.A
The great effectiveness of modern agricultural machinery.A
The great streams of foreign immigration that have emptied themselves into the country, bringing untold wealth in strong arms and actual money.A
The free character of our institutions that give courage, heart, and wealth to American citizens.A
The great era of railroad development.A
And more, perhaps, than from any other cause, the actual FREE TRADE among the several states.@We would like to ask him to explain in his next article; why Athe natural vigor and energy of the American people@ did not crop out during the Atariff for revenue only@ eras of 1850 to 1861 and 1833 to 1840. Were not these great deposits of mineral wealth in the United States during the free trade periods? Did we not have the same liberal homestead and pre-emption laws from 1850 to 1861? Did we not have the same Arich virgin soil@ at that time? Why did not Athe great streams of foreign immigration@ and wealth Aempty themselves into this country@ during that time? Was it not because of the low starvation wages, the low prices of everything the farmer, the mechanic, and the laborer produced in this country during that time? Was there not at that time the same freedom of trade among the several states?
We admit that there is now greater effectiveness of Amodern agricultural machinery,@ but why should this make so much higher prices for farm products and labor now than then? We admit also that our institutions of a free character have not the addition of the abolition of slavery, but why did not the general free character of our institutions give more prosperity in the Atafiff for revenue only@ eras? We admit that this has been a great era of railroad development, but is not this a part of the general development and prosperity of the country? And how should you say that the prosperity causes the prosperity? When our Atariff for revenue only@ champion has answered all these questions satisfactorily and has explained why we have always had our greatest prosperity under Aprotection@ and our times of distress, poverty, stagnation, and financial panic under Atafiff for revenue only,@ we will admit that he has fairly got down to business.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
NARROW GAUGE QUERIES.
Eds. COURIER: In reading your editorial in last week=s issue headed, AThe Narrow Gauge,@ the following questions suggest themselves:
1. If this narrow gauge railroad company don=t intend to build and equip a good road and in a permanent manner, why are they soliciting aid along the proposed route?
2. Is it not a fact, that this same company that is asking us to aid them, have already built their road from Denver, via Colorado Springs, to Pueblo, Colorado?
3. Is not the previous good character of those gentlemen of our county who are directly interested in this project a sufficient guarantee that the road will be built if we vote the bonds?
N. R. WILSON.
In answer to the first question above, we remark that we presume they want to make money for themselves. The more county bonds they can get and the less expense it costs them to get the bonds, the more money they can make.
We answer the 2nd question decidedly, NO. They have done nothing at all but wind work and have no connection whatever with any company that ever built or owned a mile of railroad.
We answer the 3rd question NO most emphatically. There is no doubt that the company will try to get the bonds; but it is a question of ability as well as intention whether the road is built or not, how far it will be built, and how cheap a road it will be if built. There is no man in this county who intends to put his money into this road, or who admits that he has any personal interest in it. Plenty of roads all over the country have been commenced by men of just as good character as any of these men in this company and failed. Bonds have been delivered and then the building ceased and no track ever laid or if laid, torn up again. Character never built a railroad. Cheek is worth ten times as much as character in railroad building. If these men want their character to stand in lieu of their written agreements, they should be willing to take the character of Cowley for the delivery of the bonds without binding it by a written agreement endorsed by a vote.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
RAILROAD PROJECTS.
We clip the two following paragraphs from the El Dorado Republican.
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We are in receipt of a private letter from a gentleman who is in a position to know that money cannot at present be obtained for building a new line of railway anywhere, that just as soon as it is possible to get the means, the proposed road from El Dorado northwest will be commenced, and that the parties are all ready to move. We think it is about settled for this line to be built, and we believe the money market will be so that it can be built this year.@A
A movement is on foot to make the El Dorado and McPherson branches one division, to be operated as such, giving us a regular passenger train in the morning and an accommodation train in the afternoon. This would be a great improvement over the present arrangement.@The first paragraph relates to a branch of the St. Louis, Fort Scott & Wichita. We should expect that this road could raise the funds before any new railroad could. The latter paragraph is a good scheme and if the Santa Fe company would build from Douglass to Winfield, thus making a continuous line from Winfield via Florence to McPherson and Ellinwood, it would do much to popularize their road, and we think it would be a paying investment. The Santa Fe company are able to build from Douglass to Winfield at any time without municipal bonds. If it would do so and give us a morning passenger train thereon to the north, connecting at Florence with the east bound train on the main line and giving us direct communication with thhe towns on the McPherson branch and to the northern part of the state, the people down this way would feel that there was one corporation in the state that had a soul, and would throw up their hats for the Santa Fe.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
THE NARROW GAUGE.
In this issue appears the original proposition of the Narrow Gauge railway company contained in the petition which they circulated for signatures. This is a part of the call for an election and is followed by a large mass of matter prepared in the interests of that company as a kind of stump spech to explain the proposition contained in the petition and to obviate some objections to the petition that have been raised. The words, AWithin the time and in the manner herein after provided,@ which occur in that stump speech, do not fill the bill: 1st, because they are not a part of the proposition contained in the petition which was signed by the petitioners authorizing the call of the election, and 2nd, because they are not sufficient. It needs the further words: AProvided that no bonds shall be issued unless such road is built in the time named.
Our objections are not affected by the stump speech but stand yet as follows.
1. The proposition does not state what kind of a road or how constructed. The name of the company contains the words Anarrow gauge@ and this is all. Should the proposition be voted and afterward the company lay cottonwood cordwood along the ground for ties, without grading, and then spike thereon 2 x 4 pine scantling for rails, from the west line of this county to Winfield, not more than twelve and a half miles, making the cheapest kind of trestle work for a bridge across the Walnut, and run thereon a cheap engine and a dirt car, they would be entitled to $50,000 of Cowley=s bonds under the proposition, and would get them.
[MILLINGTON REPEATED ALL 8 ITEMS COVERED IN PREVIOUS ISSUE.]
SEE NO REASON TO BE REPETITIVE!
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
SKIPPED MONTHLY MEETING OF HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY FEB. 2ND, 1884.
Members mentioned: President Martin, Mr. Hogue, Mr. Henry Hawkins, Mr. G. W. Robertson, Mr. Gillette, Mr. Brown, Mr. Thomas of Harvey Township, Jacob Nixon, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Teachers= Association.
The Central Division of the Cowley County Teachers Association will meet Feb. 23, 1884, at the High School building, Winfield. Following is the program.
SATURDAY, 10 O=CLOCK A.M., FEBRUARY 23, 1884.
1. AWhat improvements are needed in our examinations and certificates?@ Prof. Limerick, W. P. Beaumont, and Anna Robertson.
2. APeriodicals versus readers for higher grades.@ Miss Helen Mench, S. L. Herriott, F. P. Vaughn.
3. AClosing the term.@ Miss Allie Klingman, Miss Laura Barnes, S. W. Morton.
4. AGeneral Review.@ Leota Gary, Celina Bliss, Blaude Rinker, Emma Gridley.
All are invited to attend.
BY ORDER OF COMMITTEE.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
FROM AKRON.
J. S. Savage marketed 3 steers last week for $145.00.
BIRTH. Mr. and Mrs. Butler are happy over the arrival of a fine girl.
J. W. Warren is talking of having an exhibtion in his school the last day.
Mr. and Mrs. Weimer returned last Saturday from a month=s visit in Wilson County.
N. S. Fowler is hauling posts to Winfield to ship out to his stock ranch in Ford County.
Earnest Wilson has leased his farm for two more years, paying $300.00 a year for 160 acres.
A few of our farmers are not through husking corn yet. There seems to be no end to last year=s corn crop.
Rev. Rose has been holding a series of meetings for two weeks past, with good success, at Valley Center schoolhouse.
MARRIED. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gammon, who were recently married, have gone to housekeeping at the home of Mr. Gammon. The writewr wishes the happy coupled oceans of joy and success, and may they be blessed with a bountiful supply of good things.
N. E. Darling has sold his store at Akron to Mr. Thompson, and will change his location to Grand Summit, Cowley County. Mr. Darling and E. E. Rogers will set up a general store at that place. They will build immediately. The short time Mr. Darling has been our merchant, he has worked up a good trade and has done an honest business. While we are sorry to lose Mr. Darling as a merchant, we wish him and his partner unlimited success in their new location. RINGSTOM. [??? NOT SURE OF THIS AT ALL???]
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
AD. FOR SALE. A 10 FOOT ECLIPSE WINDMILL, IN GOOD ORDER.
PRICE, $60! ENQUIRE OF G. B. SHAW & CO. Winfield, January 23rd, 1884.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
AD. WANTED. Dead Hogs and Stock of all kinds suitable for Tanking. Bring them in and we will pay you ASpot Cash@ what they are worth. HOLMES & SON.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
WINFIELD POST OFFICE.
POST OFFICE open from 7:30 a.m., to 7 p.m., except Sundays, open from 9 to 10 a.m. Money Order and Registry Department open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Sundays. The mails arrive from the North on the A. T. & S. F. at 11:15 a.m., and leave for the North at 3:35 p.m. From the East on the K. C. L. & S. at 9:50 p.m. and leave, going Eastward, at 5:40 in the morning. The Eldorado stage leaves at 8 a.m. and arrives at 7 p.m. The Sedan and Dexter stage leaves at 6 a.m. and arrives at 7 p.m. The Floral and Wilmot mail arrives at 12 m, on Tuesdays and Saturdays and leaves at 1 p.m. of said days. The Salt City mails leave Thursdays and Saturdays at 7 a.m. and arrive at 5 p.m., of said days. Letters to go out on any of these mails must be put in the post office at least 30 minutes before the time of leaving. Those to go out on the K. C. L. & S. must be mailed by 11 p.m.
D. A. MILLINGTON, P. M.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MAPLE CITY.
Our school closed last Thursday. The teacher, Miss Cora Robins, has left for Winfield. She will be greatly missed from our community, for, besides being a very successful teacher, she was organist for our Sabbath school and Lyceum. Our good wishes go with her.
A RESIDENT.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
THE MARKETS. Wheat is up two cents and now brings 77 cents. Corn brings today (Wednesday) 31 cents. Hogs are going lively at top prices, as high as $6.00 per hundred being paid. Produce is holding at the high prices of last week, with a heavy demand for eggs especially.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
PERSONALS.
Sham Tycoon & Pyramid tonight, February 7th.
J. C. Fuller started Tuesday morning on an excursion.
Allen B. Lemmon came down from Newton Tuesday.
J. P. Baden is shipping a carload of eggs every other day.
Several columns of county news will be found on the front page this week.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
[MORE PERSONALS.]
Come and see the interview between the Candidate and the Goat, Opera House, tonight.
Ed. Bedilion has been fixing up his office until even the oldest resident don=t hardly recognize it.
All secret order men will enjoy the Burlesque Degree, Opera House, this evening.
Ladies, your only chance to witness the Initiation of a candidate. Opera House, tonight.
The Pleasant Hour Club will have another of their enjoyable parties Friday evening at the Opera House.
Mr. W. B. Pixley offers his splendid farm for sale in this paper. It is one of the best places around Winfield.
If you want to buy or sell a farm or city property, call on BEACH & DENNING, East 9th Avenue, Winfield.
Atkinson The Taylor is receiving new goods one door south of English Kitchen. Also the new styles are on hand.
It=s business; we warrant every pair of Stacy, Adams & Co.=s make of men=s shoes, sold only by O=Meara & Randolph.
Mr. E. S. Bliss met T. A. Wilkinson on his western trip. He is managing a wholesale commission house at Fort Worth, Texas.
Mr. Frank Oliver has leased lots on north Main Street just south of the foundry, and will put in a large stock of lumber at once.
In Walnut Township the whole Republican ticket was elected with the exception of John C. Roberts for trustee, who was defeated by A. J. Thompson.
Just received three hundred and fifty gallons mixed paint. Every gallon guaranteed, $1.25 per gallon, and $1.00 for iron paint. J. N. Harter, druggist.
Wanted. Two Catholic teachers, ladies or gentlemen. None but competent and experienced teachers need apply. Rev. Kilian. Call M. P., pastor of Winfield, Kansas.
We publish on the first page this week the full text of Judge Torrance=s decision in the injunction case of Bliss & Wood against the Water Company. Every citizen should read it.
Mrs. T. Edith Crenshaw will give under the auspices of the Woman=s Suffrage Association of Arkansas City, an elocutionary entertainment in that plce on Saturday evening, February 9th.
The mayor has appointed Mr. D. L. Kretsinger as chief fire marshal under the new fire department ordinance. Jim Clatworthy is appointed captain of company No. 1 and Frank Finch of No. 2. [Clatworthy?? Chatworthy??]
A pocket-book containig certificates of deposit and other papers, on which is the name of N. M. Pell, was found by Mr. C. C. Roberts, northeast of town, last week. The property is at this office.
We offer for sale at a bargain, for the next thirty days, one of the most desirable farms in the vicinity of Winfield; also, several valuable city residences. For particulars call on or address Shivers & Linn.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
[MORE PERSONALS.]
Mrs. Jas. Ramsey, of Vernon Township, threshed nine and a half acres of wheat, which turned out forty-nine bushels per acre. This is a big yield and can be substantiated by many of Mr. Ramsey=s neighbors.
Mr. T. Edith Crenshaw, assisted by her pupils in elocution, will give an entertainment in the Opera House on Friday evening, Feb. 15. There will be presented a series of exercises in physical culture and aesthetic gesture.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The S of [? HARD TO READ?] Knights and the Knights of Pythias of this city have prepared an entertainment for tonight (Thursday) at the Opera House, which will be unique, attractive, and amusing. These orders will appear in their new and brilliant uniforms and publicly install the officers of Cowley Legion. They will execute on the floor of the hall some fine movements, making a beautiful display. Our Arion club will furnish music. But the chief feature of the evening will be the initiation of a candidate into a secret order, with costumes, paraphernalia, and ceremonies gotten up regardless of expenses. Ladies can now have their curiosity satisfied as to what takes place in lodge meetings. (See hand bills.)
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The Good Templars installed thewir officers for the term commencing with February, on last Friday evening, as follows.
W. C. T., H. H. Siverd.
W. V. P. [?], Mrs. E. D. Garlick.
W. F. S., H. G. Norton.
W. R. S., Miss Mamie Garlick.
W. T., Mrs. N. J. Lundy.
W. C., Mrs. Emma Smith.
W. M., W. J. McClellan.
W. I. G., Miss Fannie Saunders.
W. O. G., F. V. Rowland.
W. A. S., C. A. Garlick.
W. R. S., Mrs. S. J. Hepler.
W. L. S., Mrs. L. Schaffhausen.
W. D. M., Miss Ella Garlick.
Organist, Miss Lucy Cairns.
P. W. C. T., Frank H. Greer.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Mr. E. S. Bliss has just returned from his second trip through New Mexico in the interest of the The Winfield Roller Mills. He put Winfield Roller Flour in almost every railroad town in New Mexico. He met several Winfield people, among whom he mentions Mr. A. J. Rex, at Raton; J. E. Saint and W. M. Allison, at Albuquerque; and H. C. Robinson, at El Paso. All are in good health and prospering. Mr. Robinson seemed very much pleased to see anyone from Winfield and sends regards to his many friends here. He is in government service in the Custom House.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Last Monday night about 10 o=clock as Dr. Taylor was returning from a professional visit in the country, the driver of a spirited team undertook to pass some teams, and in turning out the front wheel struck a stump, throwing the driver out on his head. Fortunately the Doctor was not thrown out of the vehicle, and escaped with a couple of badly mashed fingers that were caught under the seat as it fell. It was well that the horses did not run, or a very serious accident might have resulted.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MARRIED. Mr. Spence Miner and Miss Cora Berkey were married last Thursday evening at the residence of the bride=s parents in this city, Rev. Jones officiating. Mr. Miner is the junior member of the firm of McDonald & Miner, and one of our brightest and best young businessmen. The bride is one of Winfield=s fairest ladies. The happy couple were the recipients of a large number of beautiful presents and the best wishes of hosts of friends.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
At the Baptist Sunday school last Sunday, the monthly report for January was read. The school has a membership of 302, of whom 26 are officers and teachers. The highest attendance during the month was 229 and the average attendance 193. The collections for the month amounted to $9.38. The attendance last Sunday was 253.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The following MARRIAGE LICENSES have been issued during the week.
Geo. R. Holmes to Mary C. Boomershine.
Chas. Davis to Lottie Parker.
Frank S. Adams to Francis R. Jones.
Fred W. Barret to Laura E. Fales.
Spencer Miner to Cora Berkey.
J. B. Johns to Della Goodrich.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The Wilberforce concert troup has been secured by the trustees of the Presbyterian Church to give a concert at the Opera House on Monday evening, Feb. 25th. Please cut this out and remember. This troupe gave our citizens much pleasure by their excellent performances last year.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
A lot of boys have been in the habit of going out to the west bridge, mornings, firing off pistols, and scaring the teams of passers-by. When remonstrated with by a gentleman the other morning, they used very offensive language. Complaints have been made and the boys will come to grief if the thing is not stopped.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Mr. J. W. Cottingham brought us in six peerless potatoes Tuesday, which weighed fifteen pounds. This is twenty-four potatoes to the bushel. He brought in a load for Rinker & Hodges for which they paid 75 cents per bushel. These are Fairview Township productions.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
W. L. Morehouse is putting in a large stock of lumber and everything pertaining to the trade, just north of the Santa Fe depot, in Winfield, and expects to be in full blast by the 15th of March. His facilities for supplying the market at low rates are second to none.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
A physician attachement is the latest necessity for a Cowley County drug store. An investigation of records would disclose a wonderful amount of sickness for which Abitters@ is a popular remedy.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Hon. Leonard Farr, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, is again in the county looking to his large property interests. He is in good health and spirits and more and more attached to this grand young county.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Lost. A soft felt hat with pink satin lining and initial letter G. at the fire Monday night. Finder will confer a favor by leaving same at Bryan & Lynn=s. M. L. Garrigus.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MARRIED. Married at the Baptist parsonage, Winfield, February 1st, 1884, by rev. J. Cairns, Mr. Fred W. Barrett of Arkansas City and Miss Laura E. Fales of New York City.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
BIRTH. Mr. Fred C. Hunt is the happy dad of a bouncing girl. This explains why Fred has been fighting to have the tariff on woolen goods, diamonds, and silk buttons reduced.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Miss Ella D. Kelly, of this city, has been granted a Normal Instructor=s certificate by the State Board of Education. Miss Kelly is going way up in educational circles.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Frank Leland and W. A. McCartney were admitted to the bar last week. They are both bright and growing young men and will prove an ornament to the profession.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Dr. H. L. Wells went up to Topeka Tuesday, as a delegate to the G. A. R. meeting, and to attend the State Eclectic Medical Society meeting.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MARRIED. Married, J. B. Johns and Della Goodrich, at the residence of Mr. Sweet, by P. F. Jones, January 29, both of Cowley County, Kansas.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
MARRIED. Married, John E. Grantham and Theodosia Jones, at M. E. Parsonage, January 28, by P. F. Jones, both of Cowley County.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Elwood Shock, the Santa Fe Agent at Udall, is lying very low with malaria fever. His recovery is doubtful.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Mr. S. H. Wells was re-elected trustee of Dexter. He got 123 out of 124 votes polled.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
A Heavy Dose.
Last Thursday morning Judge Torrance passed sentence upon Dr. Fleming. It consisted of a fine of five hundred dollars and costs, amounting in all to over seven hundred dollars. In delivering the judgment of the Court, Judge Torrance made some very strong and pointed remarks. He said that the prohibitory law should be enforced and while physicians should be allowed to use liquor in the practice of their profession when used as such, no physician could sell it as a grog shop keeper. The Court seemed to have considered strongly the question of adding a penalty of confinement in the jail, but owing to the Doctor=s infirm physical condition, did not do so. The Doctor=s experience is costly, and should be lasting.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
INCENDIARISM!
Another Attempt to Burn the Town Tuesday Morning.
The Water-works Come to The Front.
Tuesday morning between four and five o=clock the fire bell rang and almost the whole male populace of the city turned out. The small barn in the rear of J. L. Hodges= grocery store was discovered to be on fire. Dr. Mendenhall, living just across the way, was on hand with a garden hose attached to his street hydrant and played at the fire until the large hose was brought out and attached, when the blaze was quickly drowned out, without injury to adjacent buildings. The fire had barely been extinguished and people were returning to their homes when another alarm was made and flames were seen issuing from Mr. Shenneman=s barn on the alley in the rear of Hudson Bros. Jewelry Store. In this barn were six horses, two of McGuire Bros. and several belonging to Mrs. Shenneman. These were got out, the hose brought around, and after some delay about opening the hydrant, caused by the loss of the wrench, a heavy stream was turned on, and in a few minutes the barn was drenched through and through and the fire out. The water worked splendidly and was undoubtedly the means of preventing a disastrous conflagration, as the location of the last fire was in the most inflammable part of the city. The fires were both the work of an incendiary as no fire nor no person was in or about the barns at that time of night. What the motive or object of the fire bugs are is a mystery, but it seems that someone means to have a fire. The officers cannot be too vigilant in their efforts to run down these midnight destroyers. Three incendiarisms within a week is warning enough that there are parties hereabouts who are deadly in earnest in their efforts to burn a big hole in the business portion of the town.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Council Meeting.
The City parliament met Monday evening and ground out the usual grist of laws.
The fire limit ordinance was finally passed, and it is a stout one. Everyone must first get a permit from the Council before the erection of any building within the fire limits.
An ordinance organizing a fire department was also passed. It provided for a chief fire Marshal and two hose companies of twelve members each. The chief Marshal is to receive two dollars for every run made and each member of the companies one dollar. The members are enrolled for three years and are exempt from poll tax and jury duty. It is a first-rate ordinance and ought to give us an excellent fire department.
The City Attorney was instructed to draw up a vagrant ordinance whereby a person loafing around without visible means of support may be put on the rock pile.
A petition for a sidewalk on the north side of Tenth avenue running from Fuller Street east through the COURIER Place to Thompson Street, thence south to the city limits, was referred to the committee on streets and alleys.
The Cowley County Coal Company were granted the right to mine coal from beneath the streets and alleys of the city. Several bills were allowed and reports received.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
THE WINFIELD NURSERY.
Last week we took a trip to the Winfield Nursery, Hogue & Mentch, proprietors, located just north of the city. We were more than surprised at the extent and quality of trees, shrubs, and vines being grown, and the amount of business done. The trees are grown in long rows, are as clean as a flower garden, and healthy and thrifty. They have trees of every known variety which will grow and thrive in southern Kansas, vines, shrubs, and evergreens. The most noticeable thing about the nursery was the thrifty appearance of everything. Not a weed could be seen, and every tree looked unusually strong and health. The firm will do a business of over ten thousand dollars this spring. Our people are beginning to find out that the only way to raise trees is to get them home grown, fresh from the nursery, and set before the roots have been dried out by long shipment. No finer trees can be grown than are those we saw last week in the Winfield Nursery. If our farmers would kick the foreign tree peddlers off the place, go to the nursery with a wagon, dig up the trees, and set them out the same day, they would have no trouble in raising orchards or getting shade trees.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Township Elections.
Vernon Township elected H. H. Martin trustee and the whole Republican ticket.
Fairview elected R. B. Corson trustee by 40 majority and the whole Republican ticket.
Ninnescah elected A. J. Worden trustee and the whole Republican ticket, including
A. A. Jackson.
Barney Shriver was re-elected trustee of Sheridan by one majority. The whole Republican ticket carried except one constable.
John Hanlen was beaten for trustee in Fairview Tuesday. John=s experience is rather discouraging. This is the fifth time he has been beaten.
Mr. J. W. Browning was elected trustee of Beaver Township, and the whole Republican ticket by 20 majority. Beaver is Democratic no longer.
Tisdale elects H. H. Sparrow, trustee, D. Sellers, clerk, and J. W. Conrad, treasurear. The issue was on the question of removing the voting precinct from Tisdale to New Salem. The Tisdale adherents won.
Vernon Township has elected N. C. Clark as road overseer for the whole township. They discovered a provision in the statutes covering the case and decided to try it. The overseer gets $1.50 per day for the time occupied in his duties.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Coal.
A coal company has been formed for the purpose of prospecting for coal here. Quite a large sum has already been subscribed to prosecute the work and it is the intention of the company to begin work as soon as the necessary boring machinery can be secured. This enterprise is a most important one for our City. There is no doubt but that our town is underlaid by coal deposits and all it needs is enterprise to develop them. The following gentlemen are the incorporators: W. P. Hackney, M. L. Robinson, B. F. Cox, J. L. Horning, C. C. Black, J. M. Keck, O. M. Reynolds, C. L. Harter, S. C. Smith, and Geo. Emerson.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Private Opinion on the Narrow Gauge.
A gentleman in a private letter to us from Otter Township, says:
A
I have talked with quite a number of voters of our Township regarding your stand on the Narrow Gauge R. R. proposition and find that most all of them think that your position, in the matter, is not only right but commendable. Unless the above company make us believe that they mean to deal fairly in this matter (between now and 11th of March) they need not expect many votes from this, Otter Township, even if they do propose to run through our midst. Hope you may continue to make it warm for this new R. R. scheme until they will be pleased to do the right thing.@
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
A Resolution.
At a meeting held at New Salem the following resolution was passed.
Resolved, That it is the sense of this meeting that the proposition for voting bonds for the Narrow Gauge Railroad is detrimental to the best interests of Cowley County.
By order of Committee.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Temperance Lecturers.
The people of Winfield are soon to enjoy a rich treat, in a series of lectures given under the auspices of the W. C. T. U. The speakers are to be Hon. John B. Finch of Nebraska, known to many in ths part of the State, and one of the leading temperance speakers of America; Hon. Edward Carswell of Canada, often called the John B. Gough of Canada; Mrs. Marion B. Baxter of Michigan; and Dr. Mary E. Haggart of Indianapolis, the most eloquent lady speaker of the country.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
At a meeting of the citizens of Sheridan Township held February 1st, 1884, J. R. Smith was chosen chairman and H. L. Wilson secretary. The object of the meeting was stated to be to consider the advisability of appointing a delegate to meet with delegates from Tisdale and other townships for the purpose of drafting resolutions asking the Denver, Memphis & Atlantic Railway Company to so obligate themselves to build a substantial road with important connections, so that the people of Cowley County may have some assurance of getting a road that will be of benefit to them after voting their bonds. The petition for the road was read and called forth considerable discussion. It appeared to be the unanimous sentiment of those present that, although strongly in favor of a road over the proposed route, they could not do otherwise than vote against the petition as it now is. E. Shriver was appointed to act as delegate. H. L. WILSON, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
New Salem Pencilings.
Mr. Bryant is having a well drilled.
Mr. Chappell is badly afflicted with rheumatism.
Mr. and Mrs. Foster have returned to their home.
Mr. Lucas is having an addition built to his house.
Mr. and Mrs. McClellen are visiting friends here this week.
Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Hoyland are visiting friends in Cambridge.
Mr. Frank Rowe is a Salemite at present. He is holding their cattle at J. E. Hoyland=s.
Mrs. Wolfe is quite sick. I hope the warm, bright days will bring back some of her youthful vigor.
The Salem teachers are doing their best to elevate the thoughts of the youth in this vicinity.
Rounds, Kelly, and Cox are in the pig businessCbut I=m saving mine to start a hog ranch on some of Uncle Sam=s land.
Miss Mary Dalgarn will teach in the Crooked Elm district this spring. Success to all our teachers.
BIRTHS. Mr. Thornton and wife are rejoicing over a fine little gentleman to their home, while Mrs. Stevens has a little mate for him in the person of a nice little girl.
We were very sorry indeed to see the home of our Prairie Home neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Christopher, burned to the ground. We extend our sympathy, and trust they soon may find a new home and enjoy all the home pleasures that they now so sadly miss.
DIED. There is another little mound wet with sorrowing tears in the New Salem graveyard. A large concourse of kind and sympathizing neighbors followed the little form of Mr. and Mrs. Griever=s sweet little babe to its silent resting place on last Friday afternoon. It budded on earth to bloom in Heaven; and the sorrowing parents have a sweet little flower in the garden of God silently calling them to its happy home. Their oldest boy is still very sick.
After the burial the many friends resorted to the banks of Cedar Creek to witness the baptism of two young men in the vigor of youth. A large number of people were already there. How solemn that duty seemed and yet how cheering to see those young men saying by their actions that they were on the Lord=s side, and heeding the command, ASeek thy Creator in the days of thy youth.@
Brightly the sun is shining, and though they say Kansas is always in a gale of wind, it proves false now, as the zephyrs are as calm as a summer dream. Some of the farmers are busy plowing, others trimming the thorny hedge, and others are improving the time in different ways. All seems quiet and at peace with their neighbor. Our new druggist is highly incensed at AOld Maid,@ the Telegram correspondent at Salem. She insinuates that the prohibitory law is not strictly kept, and our druggists have bloated faces from the use of stimulatns, etc. We hope and trust the boys have more honor than to sell anything against the laws of our fair land, and cannot see why AAlgero@ and AOld Maid@ cannot be friends. Such reflections are not a recommendation to Salem and its inhabitants is why I retaliate. I am temperance personified and wish all in the county were also. AOld Maid@ and AAlgero@ I count among my friends and shall expect them both to help hold the Temperance Banner high, and may its fair colors never be soiled by dragging through New Salem. OLIVIA.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Washington Territory Letter.
I see from the Kansas papers that Prohibition is making gigantic strides, and as the people are perhaps as much interested in that subject as any other, I will in the present letter give the situation in Washington Territory.
He who reads the papers must recognize the fact that a great Temperance revival is abroad in the land, nearly ever State and Territory is discussing the question, and so astute a man as the editor of Harper=s Weekly states that the subject of Prohibition bids fair to play an important part in the campaign of 1884.
When I came here nothing had been done in regard to the subject of Temperance, but a few days after we arrived in Colfax, a mass meeting was called, which was addressed by several able speakers, and the result of that meeting was the call of a county convention to be held at Colfax Nov. 20th, 1883. At that convention delegates from the different parts of the county were present, and at the close of an enthusiastic meeting an organization was effected and named The Whitman County Temperance League, and your correspondent was chosen President.
The objects of the League as stated in the Articles of Incorporation, are to enforce the law in regard to Sunday Gambling, AOpium Joints,@ and the sale of intoxicating liquors. Heretofore along the coast, and especially in this section, business houses were kept open on Sunday, and saloons especially reaped a rich harvest on that day. The League commenced its work by publishing in the papers the law requiring business houses and especially saloons to close on Sunday, and requesting all to observe the same.
The saloons closed except one and on Monday morning he entered a complaint against himself and was fined $25 and costs. The next Sunday the same was repeated and on Monday morning he paid a fine of $30 and costs. The third Sunday he again kept open and on Monday paid a fine of $100 and costs. Since then he has obeyed the law. One other saloon keeper has tried it once and paid a fine of $25 and costs, and it now looks as though the whole nine in the town will go through the same tactics.
While the work thus seems to be slow, yet we have the assurance that we have taken a step in advance, and though it may be slow work yet we are confident of success in the end. Our plan is to organize the several districts of the County and all the other counties of the Territory and then unitedly strike and gain Prohibition. Meanwhile, we propose to enforce what laws we have.
In pursuance of the plan to organize the districts of the county during the Holidays, I visited some of the principal towns and lectured on Prohibition. Everywhere we were greeted with large and interested audiences. While the people have heretofore been quiet on the subject of Temperance, yet it has been because they have not been called upon to act, and they now only await the proper time, when they will arise in their might and banish the saloons from the Territory.
The COURIER readers are perhaps aware that our last Legislature passed an act giving to women the right of suffrage. Contrary to the predictions made by many wise politicians that women would not avail themselves of the ballot, in many towns they have attended the polls and voted. At Olympia a citizens= ticket was nominated and elected by the aid of the women. The liquor men are sharp enough to see that something will certainly be done, and they are exercising themselves to secure High License as their only hope. Many of the politicians also favor this, as by so doing and seeming to favor Temperance, they can at the same time secure the support of the Temperance people and the Rummies.
We rejoice in the success of Kansas in clearing out the saloons, and can confidently say that in a short time the men and women of Washington Territory will prove that they are worthy to stand by your side and join in the funeral dirge over the graves of the saloons, the curses of the land. We feel that your success is ours, as the effect of Prohibition in Kansas will in a great measure determine its immediate adoption or rejection in the great future struggles in other states and territories. While we are widely separated by distance, yet we feel that we have one common cause and though progress may be slow, it is nevertheless sure and we must conquer in the end.
A
Right forever on the scaffold,Wrong forever on the throne,
But that scaffold moves the future
And behind the dark unknown
Standeth God within the shadow
Keeping watch above his own.@
E. T. TRIMBLE.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
STREAKS OF SUNSHINE. [ADS.]
Farm for Sale, consisting of two hundred and forty acres; 60 acres growing wheat on plce, 130 acres under plow, balance in grass. Good house, large orchard, good spring of water, spring pond, and conveniently located to Winfield and New Salem, in Cedar Valley. For particulars call on W. B. Pixley, first dry goods and grocery store south of Brettun House, Main Street, Winfield, Kansas. W. B. PIXLEY.
Palestine, Texas: Mr. Lewis Conrad: We received the Burges Steam Washer and have given it a fair trial and find it will do all you claim for it. We have a colored woman in our family who has had twenty years experience in washing and is first-class. She is so well pleased with it that she is anxious for wash day to come. (This is one out of hundreds of ladies who are using this washer in Kansas and other states. They all recommend it to their neighbors and friends.)
Public Sale. The undersigned will sell at his residence in Ninnescah Ttownship, on Tuesday, March 4, 1884, commencing at 10 o=clock a.m., the following described property: 1 wagon and harness, plows, harrow, cultivator, one-half interest in Deering twine binder harvesting machine, 3 head of horses and colts as follows: 3 work geldings, 1 span mares, coming 4 years old, 1 filly, coming 2 years old, also one stallion colt, coming 3 years old. 7 head of grade cattle, among which are 2 fine cows, 50 head of stock hogs, averaginb about 140 pounds; also other articles too numerous to mention. Terms: A credit of 9 months will be given on all sums over ten dollars by the purchaser giving bankable notes. The stallion colt will be sold on one, two, or three years= time at 6 percent interest, payable annually. The colt only needs to be seen to be admired, as for general make-up and style, he has no superior; weighs 1200 pounds. Sale will take place at my residence, 3 2 miles south of Udall. LEONARD STOUT.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
RECAP ONLY OF ELECTION PROCLAMATION FOR JAN. 16, 1884, VOTE ON DENVER, MEMPHIS & ATLANTIC NARROW GAUGE RAILWAY COMPANY.
Petitions came from H. C. McDorman, J. Wade McDonald. The railroad company named J. J. Burns, 1st Vice President and Acting President. Affidavit attested to by M. L. Read, Secretary of the D. M. & A. R R. Asking for County to subscribe for 200 shares of five hundred dollars each of the capital stock of company...amount $4,000 per mile constructed in said county, interest 6 percent per annum, payable semi-annually. Depots: Freight and passenger depots at Winfield, to be located on the east side of the Walnut River annd on the south side of Timber Creek within 2 mile of the crossing of Main Street and Ninth Avenue. Other depots not mentioned. VERY PECULIAR WORDING IN PROPOSAL.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
HUGH H. SIVERD, Assignee of the property of Goss & McConn, had notice printed in paper to creditors of Willis S. Goss and William V. McConn, formerly doing business under the firm name of Goss & McConn at East Geuda Springs, announcing that on June 10, 1884, at the office of the county clerk of the district court of Cowley County in Winfield he would proceed publicly to adjust and allow demands against the estate of the said Goss & McConn.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
Public Notice.
NOTICE is hereby given to all persons interested that the undersigned owners of the Tisdale Town Site, the same being an unimproved town site situated in Cowley County, Kansas, and composed of the following lands, to wit: The N W quarter of the N E qurter and the N E quarters of the N W quarter of Section No. 26 and the S E quarter of the S W quarter, and the S W quarter of the S E quarter of Section No. 23, all in Township No. 32 South of Range No. 5 East, being desirous of vacating all the streets, alleys, and other public reservations of said town site, will on the 7th day of April, A. D. 1884, the same being the first day of the next regular session of the Board of County Commissioners of Cowley County, Kansas, present to the said board a petition, praying the said Board of Commissiners to vacate all the streets, alleys, and other public reservations of said town site, at which time and place, all persons interested, may and can appear and show cause, if any they have, why the prayer of such petition ought not to be, by said Board granted.
February 1st, A. D. 1884.
WILLIAM CONRAD,
W. R. BRADLEY,
DAVID SELLERS,
J. A. McGUIRE,
HARLEN SHORTER,
C. E. LACEY,
Owners of said Town Site.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
[FRONT PAGE HAS A LENGTHY ARTICLE RE TARIFFS BY Chicago Cor. in Kansas Farmer, WHICH I SKIPPED.]
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A VOICE FROM THE RURAL DISTRICT OF THE D. M. & A. R. R.
Pleasant Valley Township.
Just now there is a one-sided effort to create a little excitement over the proposed building of a narrow gauge railroad across this county. I say one-sided advisedly, because only a few parties (not to exceed a half dozen) are manifesting any particular interest in the success of the enterprise. These parties are the supposed projectors and, therefore, are specially interested. They have been indefatigable in their efforts to impress upon the farmers of Cowley County the immense advantages that would be derived from the construction of such a road. They have given it the very significant title of Denver, Memphis & Atlantic railroad. From this we are to infer that it is to be a grand trunk line extending between the Alleghany mountain of the east and the rocky mountains of the westCconnect-ing the two great systems of narrow gauge roads in the United States.
The ponderous brains of these immaculate projectors have given birth to an extra-ordinary gigantic enterprise; and we candidly concede the great benefits and profits that would accrue to the county from its construction. But the very pertinent question that arises in the mind of every thoughtful, reasoning farmer is: AWill it be built if the necessary aid is voted?@ I think I would be safe in asserting that at least three fifths of the farmers of this county have no confidence in its ultimate completion.
Now if these famous projectors are sincere in their faith and are sanguine of its final construction within a reasonable time, they should be willing to submit to the county a fair and just proposition. Such an one, the pending petition is not considered, but, on the contrary, is bristling throughout with cats paws in which are lurking the merciless claws, only waiting a favorable opportunity to fasten themselves on the unsuspecting voter.
The specification of the kind of material of which the road is to be constructed, the limitation of stock and mortgage bonds to a reasonable amount, the location of depots at convenient points, the forfeiture of bonds, in case of failure, to the county or municipality voting them, are vital provisions that should be incorporated in all railroad petitions for the protection of public interests. Furthermore, as Cowley County is no longer suffering for railroad facilities, the commissioners should have insisted before calling an election that the company deposit with the county treasurer a sufficient sum of money to defray the expenses of such an electionCprovided the bonds are voted and the company fail to fulfill their part of the contract. It is needless to remark that the D. M. & A. narrow gauge railroad petition now before the county embraces some of the foregoing important conditions.
I am informed by reliable authority that the A. T. & S. F. R. R. company are anxious for Cowley County to vote that fraudulent narrow gauge proposition. Why? Because it would tie up the county and prevent it from voting aid in the future to any legitimate enterprise; thereby insuring exclusively to this company the carrying traffic of the county for many years to come. Therefore, farmers of Cowley County, in view of the foregoing facts, each and everyone of you who object to being burdened by taxation for the support of chimerical enterprises, should consider yourselves a committee of one, and be sure to go to the polls on election day and firmly, squarely, and emphatically set your feet down on this approaching octopus; for it is only by presuming on your gullibility or indifference in regard to the matter on election day that these designing schemers, who father the project, hope to be successful. Attend the polls and see that your neighbor does likewise, and thereby reject this flagrant imposition on your intelligence. MARK.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
G. B. SHAW & CO.
Lumber dealers are doing a very heavy business in selling lumber, etc., but pay out more to the farmers for grain and other products than their whole receipts for in their business.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
THE STOCK
Of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, in Boston, January 31, stood 76 3/4 & 77, a rise of about four cents. It did not go down in the general depression as much as did the stock of many roads.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
WANTS A NEW ORGAN.
We understand that M. L. Robinson intends to start another newspaper as a personal organ. We do not understand why he wants to kill off the Telegram in that way. It is a very good organ. So is the Cambridge News.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
CONTROLLING RAILROADS.
The decision of the Board of Railroad Commissioners reducing the freight rates of the Santa Fe system in Kansas seems to have unduly aroused the present General Manager of that line, E. A. Tonzalin. After his petition for a rehearing of the case was considered and the Board refused to reopen it, he wrote three spirited letters to the Board which were published in the state papers. The Commonwealth of Sunday contained the anwer of the Board. A more concise, forcible, and brilliant statement of any case we have never seen. It sets forth plainly the condition of the Santa Fe company, its relations to the people of Kansas, and the determination of the Board to stand by their position. That part of the document relating to the building of the road entirely on subsidies voted by the people, its watered stock, and excessive bonding, is an authoritative endorsement of our statements regarding the building of railroads, published in these columns some weeks ago.
The letter, aside from the value as affecting the interests of every citizen of the state, is a paper of remarkable power and rare literary merit. It shows that the Board propose to act in the interest of the people, and are thoroughly able to cope with railroad management on its own ground.
The letter will appear in full next week.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
COMPLIMENTARY.
Some History on Railroads and Water-Works.
The Aliterary bureau@ is exceedingly complimentary to us in devoting nearly all its energies to attacks on us through its organs, and not very complimentary to the narrow gauge proposition in not saying much in its defense. If it had any defense of this cut-throat proposition, it would doubtless devote more space to that subject and less to us.
We do not suppose that its statement concerning our support in 1878 of the Schofield proposition and our opposition to the Santa Fe proposition will do us any hurt. If the Telegram should tell the truth about it, it would probably hurt us more. But as we do not wish to enjoy a credit that we do not deserve, we will state that we treated Schofield=s proposition just as we have treated every other railroad proposition that has been presented for our acceptance. We demanded such concessions and changes as we thought would best secure the interests of the county and got some of them conceded. We were anxious to get that road built as it has always been a favorite direction with us; we were anxious to get any roadCtoo anxious as it now appears. But the Schofield proposition was not submitted to the county because of bad treatment and opposition from persons in the Santa Fe interest.
Then came the Santa Fe proposition to build the C. S. & F. S. railroad. We met that proposition as courteously as we had the Schofield proposition, but labored hard to get a limit of a hundred thousand dollars for the bonds to be issued by the county, a limit of six percent interest on them, a limit of $10,000 a mile on the stock to be issued, a limit of $10,000 a mile in the issue of mortgage bonds, etc. Some of these were conceded, but not enough to make the stock worth something as we then thought it would; and then fearing that we should lose the road, if we did not accept it in the way it was finally submitted, we went to work with a will to carry the bonds and we do not think that those who read the COURIER during that canvass will accuse us of being very conceited if we say that we did more than all the supporters of this narrow gauge proposition put together, to carry the bonds, or if we should say that the bonds could not have been carried without the help of the COURIER.
Now these facts will not commend us to perhaps a majority of the citizens of this county who think we then made a serious mistake and that if the people of this county had held out for a limit of seventy-five thousand or even less, we should have got the road all the same. As it is, it was a dead gift of $128,000 to that company and a liability to give them another $16,000 whenever they take a notion to build four miles of road from Arkansas City to the state line.
Neither do we expect that its statement concerning our course with regard to the water-works will hurt us much, but we would choose that it should tell the truth about it and leave out the falsehoods.
Before we had spoken or printed a word against the original water-works proposition, and while we were beginning to look into and investigate the proposition; the originator of that scheme offered us an equal chance with himself in the company if we would support it. We answered that we would consider and look into the scheme and give him our answer in a day or two. Two days thereafter he came into our office for his answer and we told him the scheme was Atoo big a job and we could not support it, that on the contrary we would oppose it unless it was modified so as to make it very much better for the city.@ It was after this that we commenced our opposition, a record of which appeared in the columns of the COURIER.
Our investigations had convinced us that the passage of that ordinance would amount to giving the water company outright $100,000 at the expense of the city and that we could just as surely get the water-works with a gift franchise not worth one-fourth of that sum. We did not interfere with Ed. Greer=s proposition in any way. He spent his own money in traveling and visiting other water-works and water-works builders, and secured such aid and backing as would have enabled him to get the water-works put in on the terms of the ordinance he presented to the Council. We examined his ordinance and concluded that it would be a good thing for him and perhaps save the city $75,000 or more in taxes and otherwise if it should be adopted instead of the original Barclay-Robinson ordinance, which we concluded would be adopted unless something better for the city was presented. So we let him take his own course and shoulder the whole fight. The result was that Robinson had to come down very nearly to the terms of Ed=s ordinance in order to get his proposition through, and Ed=s work saved the city a considerable sum in yearly rents and made it possible for the city to buy out the plant in ten years at a cost of perhaps $75,000 less for the gift franchise than it would otherwise have been. We doubt not that Ed. will get the credit of this as he is entitled to it. The story about Ed. offering a councilman ten thousand dollars in stock for his vote for his ordinance was fabricated to tone down the appearance that a Councilman sold out. That Councilman was all along so stubbornly opposed to the original scheme and so warmly in favor of Ed.=s ordinance when it was presented that Ed. considered his vote certain for him and of course did not offer to buy what he already had or felt sure of.
What we concluded then and what we still think is; that if the city was bound to have, and could afford to have water-works, the best and only sensible way was to take a vote of the people on the issue of bonds for that purpose to the extent of $50,000, six percents, if needed, thus giving the people a chance to decide the question. If carried, let a contract for building the works for the City payable in the City=s bonds. For that sum we should have got at least as good a system as those now put in and the bonds not issued or draw interest until fully completed and tested. The interest on those bonds would be limited to $3,000 a year, equal to the rent now running but not subject to increase to $6,000 or more a year as the rents are; then the City, owning the works, franchise and all, could lease the works to M. L. Robinson=s company or some other, with a limited schedule of rates to consumers as in the ordinance, and get, after a year or two, more rents from the company than sufficient to pay the interest on the city=s bonds; sufficient to pay for repairs and extensions and to create a sinking fund sufficient to sink the bonds in ten years, or twenty at the outside, when the city would own the works and be out of debt without it ever having cost her a cent not returned or having levied a cent of tax on her citizens on account of it. This was our plan, but it was not adopted. Instead, the city is bound to pay $3,000 in rents the first year, to be increased year after year to $6,000 or more, and when we get tired of this heavy tax besides paying our individual water rents, say after ten years, the city must buy the works at cost and pay probably as much more for the franchise, possibly twice as much more, and issue its bonds for at least $100,000 to pay for them, paying $6,000 a year interest. But that will be the best thing to be done at the end of ten years, for then the city can probably lease the works for near enough money to pay the interest and save from a half to the whole of the taxes that must be raised until then.
This is what we get by granting subsidies to bloated bondholders and conscienceless monopolists.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
[MILLINGTON HAD A LONG ARTICLE RE FRED C. HUNT=S FOURTH ARTICLE ON THE TARIFF, THAT APPEARED IN THE TELEGRAM THE PREVIOUS WEEK.]
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
CAN IT BE IGNORANCE?
A
Mr. Millington opposed the K. C. L. & S. proposition at first.@ Telegram.A
We can hardly doubt but that a proposition so remarkable in its liberality and in the profound safety of its provisions will be carried almost unanimously.@ COURIER, March 6th, 1879, on the K. C. L. & S. K., proposition.Mr. Black=s articles of late respecting the actions of the editor of this paper past and present, exhibit either an unusual degree of ignorance or a vast resource of falsehood and misrepresentation.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
THE NARROW GAUGE.
How to Cure the Defects in the Proposition.
We desire a good railroad built from Colorado Springs to Memphis by way of Winfield and Dexter as earnestly as any other person; we understand as well as anyone the advantages such a road would be to Cowley County and to Winfield, and would do much more in proportion to our means to secure such a road than the leading advocate of the present one-sided proposition will ever think of doing, even though he is going to make a big pile of money out of its construction, and we not a cent.
We prefer a standard gauge road, believing it would be of very much greater value to our county than a narrow gauge, but we believe a narrow gauge would be of value to us, would very much rather have a narrow gauge built than none, and would sacrifice much to have one built over this line.
But we believe that voting up the present proposition is just the wrong way to get such a road; that the proposition merely gives an opportunity to sharpers to get $100,000 from this county without building a road of any value for service, or of sufficient length to do any particular good, or in any certain time however distant, or giving any other valuable consideration.
Outside of the written proposition the men of the company agree verbally to some of the stipulations we demand and talk of filing an agreement with the county clerk to that effect. We do not believe that any stipulation they can file at this late date, after the proposition has been submitted to the votes of the people, will be of any binding effect; and besides, they do not propose in that way to concede some of the most vital conditions for the county=s interest and protection. We see no other way to cure the proposition but to kill it outright by voting it down and then start anew and start aright.
Take the old proposition if that form suits the company best and insert over the last paragraph stating what the ballots shall contain, the following paragraphs; viz:
1. AAnd it is hereby distinctly provided that no bonds shall be issued by the said county, or stock in said railway company taken in exchange therefor, until a good substantial railroad, of three feet or standard gauge, with steel rails of not less weight than fifty pounds per yard, well graded and in all respects a first class railroad, is built by the said company and in operation, from some point of intersection with some other railroad of same gauge in operation, or from some valuable coal fields or timber lands in the state of Colorado, Missouri, or Arkansas to and into the said county of Cowley as far as the said Dexter or Winfield by the route above designated and until a suitable depot building and side tracks are constructed at Winfield or Dexter, nor more than two thousand dollars per mile of main track of its road thus constructed and in operation in said Cowley County, nor more than eighty thousand dollars in the aggregate; and in case such road is not built as above specified from such railroad connection of same gauge, or lumber, or coal fields in Colorado, Arkansas, or Missouri, to this said county of Cowley within two years from the date of the election on which this proposition is voted for by the election of said county, and through said county with depots and side tracks thereon at Winfield and Dexter, as above specified, within one year thereafter, the subscription to the capital stock of said railway company as above provided for shall be void and of no effect and the said bonds of the said county of Cowley shall never be issued but shall be forfeited.
2. AAnd it is further provided that the clerk and county commissioners of said Cowley County shall not subscribe for said county to the Capital stock of said railway company until the said company have filed with said clerk a legally executed and binding stipulation that in consideration of the said subscription by said Cowley County to the capital stock of said railway company, no stock or mortgage bonds of said company shall ever be issued in excess of six thousand dollars per mile of its road actually built in the above described manner and in operation, and in case such stipulation is not thus filed within three months of the election herein prayed for, no bonds of said county shall ever be issued to the said company but shall be forfeited.@
The first paragraph is the most essential because it gets a road from somewhere into and through this county within three years or saves the bonds to the county. The 2nd paragraph is less essential for it only provides a chance for the county=s stock to become worth something; but if it is omitted, the proposition simply means that the county shall give $80,000 outright, the stock subscription being only to answer the restrictions of the law but not to return any value to the county. If we were going to concede anything, it should be this.
Of course, with both of these paragraphs or the first only inserted, there are some words in the original that should be changed and much that is useless verbiage. The money sums named should be changed at least. Then about two thirds of the commissioners doings as appears in the election proclamation should be omitted as useless, and the stipulation about Dexter should be condensed and placed in the body of the petition. Then while we are about it, the Silver Creek people should be provided with a depot and side track and the Cedar Creek people if they want one. Perhaps, too, one might be wanted over the ridge in Vernon or Ninnescah. Perhaps other things would arise that would need attention and settlement in advance.
Vote the present proposition down. It is the only way to get a good road in a specified time and protect the county from fraud. If this will not do it, nothing will; for if the company then will not submit a safe proposition, it is because they only want to tie up our ability to issue bonds in the interest of the Santa Fe companies as some have charged.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Bethel Items.
By your consent I will, through the columns of your valuable paper, try and give you the items of Bethel and vicinity; to let the world know that we still live and prosper. The farmers of this vicinity have been prosperous beyond measure, and no happier and more contented community can be found in Cowley County, and the COURIER has many substantial friends in this vicinity, and well it may, as it is the leading Republican paper of Cowley County and should receive the hearty support of every Republican in its course upon the tariff and other leading questions as it is a commendable act.
Peter Paugh visited friends at Bethel last week.
Hogue and Mentch, Bethel=s nurserymen, are making preparation for an extensive trade this spring.
Mr. John Danner, accompanied by Robert Weakley, will take a trip to Grouse next week to look up a location.
I will, in my next letter, give the readers of the COURIER some of the many improvements of Bethel the past year.
Capt. N. A. Haight, Cowley County Surveyor, has been surveying for B. D. Hanna and Billy Schwantes for the past week.
I will wager a pint of peanuts against a last years straw hat that Walnut Township will give a majority for the bonds the eleventh of March.
Bethel Sabbath school is in a prosperous condition, with Mrs. Shelton as superintendent, and about fifty scholars enrolled. Our Sunday school was very successful last year and it is to be hoped that good results may be attained the coming year.
Miss Maggie Kinney, our school teacher, has only two weeks more to teach for the present term; she has taught five months and has given perfect satisfaction. We, of Bethel, are sorry to see her leave and the board should by all means secure her for the next term.
Mr. T. R. Wilson has sold his forty acres of land to A. Walters, of Ohio, for the neat little sum of $1,600. Mr. Wilson is an enterprising and industrious citizen and we are sorry to see so kind a neighbor leave us. We extend Mr. Walters and family a cordial welcome. Boys, hearken, a real nice girl at Mr. Walters, don=t all speak at once.
The township election came off according to proclamation and J. C. Roberts, the Republican nominee, was defeated and A. J. Thompson, the Democratic nominee, was elected in his stead by seven majority. It is not for me to say why it is thus, but time will tell, and that time is anxiously awaited by several of the Walnut Township Republicans.
Charley Wilson and Will Long, two of Walnut Township=s promising young farmers, started February 8th on a tour of inspection through Harper and Barber Counties. A few drinks of alkali water and a three weeks growth of whiskers upon those faces together with the thrilling hair-breadth escapes among the savages in the far west will stun the average Bethelite. CANARY.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
THE MARKETS.
Wheat is up eight cents and now brings 85 cents. Corn brings today (Wednesday) 31 cents. Hogs are going lively at top prices, as high as $6.10 per hundred and occasionally go to $6.20. Produce is holding at the same prices of last week. Butter 20 cents, eggs 20 cents.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
PERSONALS.
Go to hear what Carswell has to say about laughing.
Be sure and hear Carswell=s rich fund of humor, February 22nd.
Hon. E. Carswell, the peer of John B. Gough, will be here on the 22nd.
The Good Templar semi-monthly social meets on Tuesday evening next with Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Garlick.
A
The Great Pyramids,@ by Dr. Kirkwood, at Opera House Monday evening, benefit City Library. Admission 25 cents.Conway Brothers, a Notion firm in Arkansas City, assigned last week. Their liabilities as reported to the Clerk of the Court, are $829.
Bliss & Wood=s mill shipped seven cars of flour last Wednesday in one bulk. Three days of the week before they shipped four cars a day.
MARRIED. Mr. Jas. D. Byers and Miss Ella Coryell were married at Wichita last Sunday week. They returned to Winfield and will make this place their future home.
The Beaver Republicans feel jubilant over the result of their township election. The boys vowed long ago to redeem Beaver from its strong Democratic proclivities.
It is morally certain now that Mr. Touzalin will remove the Kansas Capital to Argentine unless the Topeka Board of Trade interpose with another set of resolutions. Emporia News.
A large number of the friends of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Roberts, of Walnut, were entertained at their home last Friday evening. The occasion was the celebration of Mr. Roberts= birthday.
Mr. James Kelly is editing the Pratt County Press. The paper is full of legal advertising matter, and appears to be prospering. Jim has the hearty good wishes of hundreds of friends in Cowley.
Mr. H. B. Lacy is in very poor health and failing rapidly. Since the days of Uncle Isaac Comfort, Mr. Lacy has been the most familiar figure on our streets. We hope he may speedily regain his health.
Messrs. Watson and Dinwiddie, of Bond County, Illinois, are in the city prospecting with a view of locating. Mr. Watson is a brother-in-law of Geo. Sanderson. They are well pleased with Cowley, so far.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Judge Gans has issued the following MARRIAGE LICENSES since last week.
John W. Hammon to Carrie E. Lowe.
Manly Elder to Mary A. Butler.
Chas. J. O=Hare to Maggie B. Blamont.
Wm. Smith to Lena Stewart.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
The Dexter Township election wsas absolutely correct in every particular and the only one found by the commissioners in their canvas of the vote but what was wrong somewhere. The Dexter folks do things up right.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
There was a sharp fight on Harvey Smith for re-election as justice of the peace in Silver Creek Township. Ed. Milliard was his opponent and got 22 votes while Squire Smith recewived 133. The Squire seems to run lively in Silver Creek.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
The entertainment given on last Thursday evening at the Opera House by the Select Knights of A. O. U. W. and the Uniformed Rank of Knights of Pythias, was highly satisfactory, and was largely attended. It was a grand and only opportunity for the ladies to behold the woes of a candidate for initiation into a secret order, and by the time the candidate was Abranded,@ Ainstructed,@ and ridden upon the Agoat,@ which were all bona fide transactions in this case, they seemed satisfied that women were not allowed to pass through such an ordeal. Frazier=s Secret Order Expose is the most ludicrous, side-splitting farce we ever heard of, and was acted out to perfection, the participants (to make it more laughable) being masked. The Adress parade@ on this occasion exhibited the fine uniforms of these Orders in all their splendor. The Select Knights and Uniformed Knights of Pythias of Winfield are strong and flourishing Orders and their membership embraces our most substantial and influential men.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Messrs. Jarvis, Conklin & Co. have organized and started a bank at Kingman, Kansas. It is an incorporated State bank with a cash capital of $50,000. S. M. Jarvis is president;
R. H. Conklin, vice president; and H. P. Morgan, cashier. Mr. Morgan, who had a banking experience of fourteen years in Rhode Island, has for several years been representing this firm at their office in Providence, Rhode Island. Kingman County, since the advent of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad, has been growing rapidly in population. While land is cheap there now, it ranks in soil and climate with McPherson, just north of it, which for three years has been the banner wheat county of the State. With the wide acquaintance and business experience of these gentlemen, the success of the venture as a financial measure cannot be questioned. Both Messrs. Jarvis and Conklin will remain in charge of their home office at Kansas City.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Hon. Edward Carswell will deliver the first in the course of lectures given under the auspices of the Woman=s Christian Temperance Union, on Friday evening, February 22nd. Subject, ALaughing.@ In his address he paints to perfection the man who always laughs, the man who never laughs, and the man who laughs when there is something to laugh at. He is a humorist in the highest sense, an orator of ability, a mimic unsurpassable, logical and interesting, with an originality which is attractive.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. Al. Roberts has received a splendid Italian harp and is furnishing excellent music with it for the bi-weekly hops of the Pleasant Hour Club. With Frank McClain, of Cambridge, playing the cornet, Clarence Roberts the violin, and Al. the harp, the music for l;ast Friday evening=s dance could not have been better, and with the splendid prompting of Mr. Chas. Gay, made the occasion very enjoyable. These hops are a great factor in the city=s social life, and are always well attended.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Professor Atkinson, of the Arkansas City schools, will begin the publication of a paper at that place soon, to be called the Republican. This will give the city by the canal three papers. We suppose the new one will be a patent outside, following suit with the other two. If the new proprietor is wise, he will put out an oll home print full of live, bright, newsy matter, if it=s only four columns to the page. That city is a good field for such a paper. Another patent wouldn=t live six months.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
We are in receipt of a splendid article from the pen of President Martin, of the Horticultural Society, on the planting and selection of trees for orchards. Just as we go to press, we find that it has been mislaid and has not been put in type for this issueCa fact that we much regret. It will appear on the first page next week, and should be read by every farmer in the county before he purchases a fruit tree for spring setting.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
The committee on premium list of the Fair Association met last week and commenced the revision of the list for the coming year. The premiums they propose to offer this year will aggregate over three thousand dollars. The list will be one of the most complete ever issued by a county fair in Kansas. It will probably be published sometime in March or early in April.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Kellogg & Matlack of Arkansas City have purchased an old set of abstract books from Col. McMullen. They are only kept up to 1878 and the present purchasers intend to write them up to date. Ezra Nixon is assisting to get them started. The job is a big one. At present the only complete abstract in the county is owned by Curns & Manser.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A number of our citizens are arranging for a grand ball to be given Wednesday evening, the 27th, for the benefit of the fire department. The funds secured are to be used in the purchase of hats, belts, etc., for the boys. We hope every citizen will take hold of the matter and assist in making it a success financially and every other way.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A
Where=s old Millington,@ was the cry Tuesday morning when the fires waterworks extinguished the in a twinkling. Telegram.The clear and lucid statement, elegant diction, and manly construction of the above squib indicates that Rembaugh does not write all that appears on its local page. There is a gentleman somewhere about the establishment.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A number of young folks were entertained at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hendricks on last Monday evening in honor of Miss Alice Wherritt, of Mt. Pleasant, Missouri, a sister of Mrs. Hendricks, who has been visiting with her for a few weeks past. Miss Wherritt will return to her home the first of next week.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Monday and Tuesday were the slickety, slickest days of the winter. It was sleet, drizzle, snow, and freeze until the pavements and streets were a sheet of ice. Many amusing attitudes were Astruck@ by unfortunate pedestrians. Even the ladies were not exempt from the general inconveniences of travel.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. W. D. Matthews, late of Indiana, has purchased a six hundred acre cattle ranch in Silverdale Township. He will improve it largely and stock heavily with a high grade of cattle, sheep, and hogs. Our county is acquiring a good many enterprising men of brains and capital this winter.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. N. E. Darling is making arrangements to open up a general store at Grand Summit in this County. He will be ready for business about March 1st. Mr. Darling is a live, energetic young businessman, does business on the square, and will be a valuable acquisition to Eastern Cowley.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
The city prisoners were put at work on the streets last week. They worked about fifteen minutes, then threw up the job, and refused to expend any further physical force in the interests of the city. They were returned to the cell and put on an allowance of bread and water.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
W. L. Morehouse is putting in a large stock of lumber and everything pertaining to the trade, just north of the Santa Fe depot, in Winfield, and expects to be in full blast by the 15th of March. His facilities for supplying the market at low rates are second to none.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. M. C. Headrick, of Floral, was caught in town during the storm and remained until the moderation Wednesday. A ride of ten miles facing Tuesday=s storm would have been extremely unpleasant, if not dangerous.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
S. S. Lyon & Co., a new firm of plumbers, have located here, under engzgement with Horning & Whitney. They are first class workmen and make lively competition in the plumbing line.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. Jas. Kirk has added a second story to his mill and intends putting in two wheat buhrs, which will enable him to do custom work in that line as well as in corn.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Hon. J. J. Johnson, late representative from this district, was elected constable of Tisdale Township last week. Honors seem to be crowding fast upon J. J.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A three inch snow fell Tuesday night, and on Wednesday the merry jingle of sleigh bells was heard on our streets for the first time this winter.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Think of It.
A
The rate of freight from Winfield to Memphis on flour is 45 cents per 100 pounds. The rate from Kansas City to Memphis is 23 cents. We assert, and upon good grounds, that the building of the D., M. & A. Narrow Gauge R. R. will lower the rate on flour to a point even below 23 cents, which Kansas City has to pay now, because the railroads could now, if they chose, carry flour from here to Memphis for 23 cents. It is no further than from Kansas City. The rate from Fort Scott to Memphis is 23 cents, just the same as from Kansas City, and we are informed that Wichita has the same rate. If the railroads could afford to carry for 23 cents by a roundabout way, the D., M. & A., by a direct line many miles shorter, could carry it for much less, and would do so for the sake of the business.@* * * * * * * * * *
A
This is only speaking of Memphis as a market, when, as can be seen by examining the map and the proposed route, the line will open up a very large and profitable market in Arkansas, this side of Memphis. Cowley County mills could have no trouble in using all the wheat that can be used in the county, for even now the Winfield and Arkansas City mills are shipping in wheat from neighboring counties. With the new railroad, the county would increase in population, and the wheat acreage would also increase; but if no more land should be cultivated, no more people come into the county, the farmers of this county would make more than eight hundred thousand dollars in ten years from the time the road is opened, on wheat alone. Don=t you think this proposition is worth thinking of?@The above, from the Telegram of last week, presents in a very pretty way, a few of the advantages of a through line to Memphis. Its figures are true and its conclusions probably correct. No one can estimate the advantages to Cowley of a through line to Memphis. It needs no argument to convince any thinking citizen of this county that we could well afford a reasonable amount of aid to secure such a line. While we can afford thousands for a trunk line to Memphis, we can=t afford more than ten cents for a trunk line to Tisdale. There is at present no proposition before the people of this county for a trunk line to Memphis. There is a proposition before them for a narrow gauge railroad to be built from the east to the west or the west to the east, through the county. It is called the Denver, Memphis & Atlantic. This word AMemphis,@ the Company=s representative in this county tells us, means that they propose to build to Memphis. If they propose to build to Memphis, and ask our bonds on the strength of it, why don=t they make the delivery of the bonds conditional on their doing it? If a narrow gauge could be built from Winfield to Memphis for one hundred thousand dolalrs, we know of a few men in whose hands it would be passibly safe to put that amount of money on their verbal agreement to do itCstill everyone would call us an infernal idiot unless we would get a good and sufficient bond in double the amount that the work would be done. Yet the narrow gauge organ brands as Atechnical, unreasonable, and frivoluous,@ the refusal to take the verbal agreement of several gentlemen, who are not known, that they will build a road costing many millions, not a foot of which is yet in existence, and depending for its success upon a thousand contingencies which none of them, be they ever so reliable, could control. Let these gentlemen put their proposition in such shape that we can be assured of getting the road to Memphis, or even to Joplin, accept a reasonable amount of aid when the job is completed, and a large majority of the people of the county will probably support it.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
More Fires.
Again, on Sunday evening, an attempt was made to set fire to property in the city. A lot of hay was stuffed under the rear end of Hendricks & Wilson=s hardware store and ignited. It was done about half past seven o=clock in the evening. Mr. James McLain, who has been acting as night watchman, first discovered and put it out. Shortly before, when walking across Manning Street and Tenth Avenue, he passed a man who was walking hurriedly. As soon as he passed, the man broke into a run, and a moment after McLain discovered the fire. When he turned, the man had disappeared in the darkness. What the object of these incendiaries is cannot be defined. The fire in the Hodges barn could have injured but little business property if successful. The fire started in the Shenneman barn, immediately after, when the hose was handy and hundreds of people standing around to use it, could not have been set with a very villanous intent to destroy, as the destroyer might have known it would be put out in a minute. The setting of the Sunday evening fire early in the evening, when everyone was about, showed a lack of deep intent to do great injury. However, our people have resolved to put a stop to it, and to that end the following paper has been prepared and duly signed, and the total sum of $222.50 goes to the person who runs the fire-bugs in.
We, the undersigned, promise to pay the sum set against our respective names as a reward for the apprehension and conviction of any person or persons engaged in setting any incendiary fire in the city of Winfield, either heretofore or hereafter.
THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED $5.00:
S. C. Smith, T. K. Johnston, Horning & Whitney, Wm. Newton, Hudson Bros., McGuire Bros., J. B. Lynn, Geo. Emerson, COURIER Co., Ella C. Shenneman, W. S. Mendenhall, Winfield Bank, M. L. Read=s Bank, Rinker & Cochran, Miller & Dawson, H. Beard, Whiting Bros., Hendricks & Wilson, A. E. Bard, Johnston & Hill, J. N. Harter, Farmers Bank, Wallis & Wallis, F. V. Rowland, J. S. Mann, Hughes & Cooper, A. B. Arment, Quincy A. Glass, W. L. Morehouse, McDonald & Miner, Curns & Manser, J. D. Pryor, M. Hahn & Co., O=Meara & Randolph, S. H. Myton, J. P. Baden, Telegram, Scofield & Keck, Henry Goldsmith.
THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED $2.50.
R. E. Sydal, S. D. Pryor, E. G. Cole, Kraft & Dix, H. Brown & Son, Brotherton & Silver, F. M. Friend, F. H. Blair, F. H. Bull, T. J. Harris, Albro & Dorley.
TOTAL RAISED: $222.50
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A
Mayor Emerson made a mistake in his selection of fire marshal. Daddy Millington was the man for that position and Ed. Greer for second position. The only danger from this combination would have been that they would willingly let the town be reduced to ashes in their attempt to crush the water-works. . . .A
If Dad Millington and Me too Greer had been on the roof of Mrs. Shenneman=s stable when the firemen cut loose with their inch and a quarter stream, they would have thought that about four million of nature=s wash basins had been upset on their miserable heads.@Telegram.
We have always thought that within Rembaugh=s aesthetic frame slumbered the incipient fires of a genius that would some day flash upon the world like the rays of a tallow candle on the summit of Pikes Peak. The above, from his pen, would appear to one who did not know him to be the mutterings of a disordered mind. They are really sparks from his storehouse of wit and humor, drawn from the inspiration of a ten dollar fire in a hay-mow. We might quote a column more of the same kind, from the same source, and fruits of the same inspiration, were we sure that the public would bear with us. If the marshal has ever inadvertently collected money of him as poll-tax, it ought to be refunded. There is a statute exempting such persons from municipal burdens. Their existence is a sublime proof of the mercy of God, and should be borne cheerfully.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
For the Benefit of the Ladies= Library.
A lecture will be delivered in the Opera House on Monday evening, Feb. 18th, by the Rev. Dr. Kirkwood. The subject of the lecture is The New Theories Concerning the Great Pyramid. Admittance for adults, 25 cents; children, 15 cents. No extra charge for reserved seats. Tickets to be had at Goldsmith=s. This lecture was prepared for the entertainment of the parishioners and friends of Dr. Kirkwood in Ohio. It was delivered a few times in neighboring churches for the benefit of some department of their work.
[GAVE TWO PRESS NOTICES, WHICH I SKIPPED.]
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Township Officers.
The Board of Commissioners met Tuesday and canvassed the vote for township officers. The following were declared elected.
TRUSTEES.
Beaver, J. W. Browning; Bolton, A. T. Cooper; Cedar, Richard Courtright; Creswell,
M. N. Sinnott; Dexter, S. H. Wells; Fairview, R. B. Corson; Harvey, Geo. Shelley; Liberty, J. A. Cochran; Maple, E. J. Cole; Ninnescah, A. J. Worden; Omnia, G. B. Darlington; Otter, J. H. Bartgis; Pleasant Valley, L. Holcomb; Richland, R. S. Sandfort; Rock, M. N. Martindale; Sheridan, Barney Shriver; Silver Creek, Ed Pate; Silverdale, P. F. Haines; Spring Creek, H. S. Libby; Tisdale, H. H. Sparrow; Vernon, H. H. Martin; Walnut, A. J. Thompson; Windsor, W. L. Koons.
TOWNSHIP CLERKS.
Beaver, H. T. Bayless; Bolton, J. M. Shurtz; Cedar, R. E. Howe; Creswell, W. D. Mowry; Dexter, L. C. Patterson; Fairview, Wm. White; Harvey, J. W. Parker; Liberty, J. E. Grove; Maple, E. R. Morse; Ninnescah, J. H. Hood; Omnia, Geo. Haycraft; Otter, J. W. Aley; Pleasant Valley, F. A. Chaplin; Richland, C. H. Bing; Rock, S. W. Railsback; Sheridan, Wm. Funk; Silver Creek, J. R. Tate; Silverdale, John Algeo; Spring Creek, E. A. Goodrich; Tisdale, David Sellers; Vernon, J. M. Householder; Walnut, S. Cure; Windsor, Jas. B. Rowe.
TOWNSHIP TREASURERS.
Beaver, Irwin Graves; Bolton, C. J. Beck; Cedar, D. Baird; Creswell, James Huey; Dexter, C. A. Walker; Fairview, J. H. Curfman; Harvey, Henry Fromm; Liberty, J. H. D. Mounts; Maple, T. C. Daniels; Ninnescah, H. H. Suss; Omnia, Andrew Hattery; Otter, J. W. Hosmer; Pleasant Valley, D. Gramm; Richland, D. F. McPherson; Rock, H. F. Hornaday; Sheridan, E. J. Johnson; Silver Creek, J. Chandler; Silverdale, Joel Lewis; Spring Creek, John Robinson; Tisdale, John W. Conrad; Vernon, T. B. Ware; Walnut, F. M. Chaffee; Windsor, J. S. Mohler.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
Beaver, John Bower and L. Wertman.
Bolton, W. S. Foris and C. Snyder.
Cedar, none elected.
Creswell, F. Schiffbauer and D. W. Kramer.
Dexter, J. V. Hines and Willis Elliott.
Fairview, Uesekiah [? Usekiah?] Smith.
Harvey, W. A. Smith.
Liberty, S. G. Castor and John Darnell.
Maple, E. A. Knowlton and D. S. Haines.
Ninnescah, A. A. Jackson.
Omnia, J. A. Lee.
Otter, J. B. Graves and John Chandler.
Pleasant Valley, W. A. Ela and S. Sherrard.
Richland, none elected.
Rock, none elected.
Sheridan, H. H. Higbee and G. W. Taylor.
Silver Creek, W. C. May and Harvey Smith.
Silverdale, Sam=l Bone and A. C. Smith.
Spring Creek, J. H. Gilleland and L. Miller.
Tisdale, none elected.
Vernon, R. J. Yoeman.
Walnut, T. A. Blanchard.
Windsor, H. H. Hovey and J. Reynolds.
CONSTABLES.
Beaver, Silas Thorley and J. H. Thorp.
Bolton, J. W. Feagan and J. P. Deimer [?Detmer?].
Cedar, J. W. Moore and J. W. Stewart.
Creswell, J. J. Brain and John Lewis.
Dexter, T. H. Blakeley and E. V. Elliott.
Fairview, W. H. Butler and Sam=l Christaller.
Harvey, L. D. Moore and Frank Batch.
Liberty, Jas. Cochran and Harvey Miller.
Maple, M. A. Busch and Elmer Wise.
Ninnescah, E. P. Brown and Wm. June.
Omnia, Daniel Jenkins and E. Hattery.
Otter, J. R. Kennedy and John Stockdale.
Pleasant Valley, A. Post and P. Byers.
Richland, J. S. Hamilton and A. O. Welfelt.
Rock, A. B. Tuggle and S. P. Strong.
Sheridan, Jno. Mackey and J. M. McKee.
Silver Creek, Clark Walker and E. H. Moore.
Silverdale, John Algeo and J. Cessna.
Spring Creek, E. H. Tooman [?] and Wm. Mason.
Tisdale, Wm. Conrad and J. J. Johnson.
Vernon, W. L. Holmes and S. H. Bernard. [NOT SURE BERNARD INITIALS.]
Walnut, J. C. Monfort and G. W. Brown.
Windsor, J. L. Sellers and C. C. Collins.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
A Cowley County Boy Kidnapped.
Some weeks ago the COURIER published a notice of the disappearance of a young son of Mr. H. H. Hooker, of Polo. We clip the following, which explains itself, from the Emporia Republican.
A
The leading excitement in Douglass at present writing is the recovery and restoration to his parents of young Hooker, son of H. H. Hooker, of Polo, Cowley County. It seems that he had been kidnapped and held by parties who were trying to extort money from Mr. Hooker. The parties were closely pursued by a Kansas City detective, and finally run in at this place. We regret to say that they made good their escape by aid, it is thought, from parties at this place who lent them assistance to make for the Territory. Young Hooker says that he was not misused, but was closely watched and not allowed the least chance of escape. His parents were greatly rejoiced at his recovery. The community exceedingly regrets that the villains were allowed to escape, and have already organized a posse for pursuit.@
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
The Smith family seem to be monopolizing the office of the Justice of the Peace in this county. [HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS MEANS???!!!]
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
[SKIPPED COUNTY LEGAL NOTICES...Statement of County Treasurer for Quarter Ending December 31, 1883; School District Tax Fund, School Bond Fund; and Election Proclamation printed again re D. M. & A. NARROW GAUGE RAILROAD.]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
OUR CORRESPONDENTS.
SOUTH EAST COWLEY ITEMS.
C. M. Aley has been visiting his brother, but has now gone back to Kansas City.
Mr. Phelps has erected an addition to his house.
BIRTH. Dan Ramsy [RAMSEY?] is the proud father of a bouncing boy.
Mr. Thorp has taken a claim at the foot of the flints on what is known as the Sydal claim.
Aley Bros. will put in a pair of scales at their feed lot.
The new telephone line is not a decided success, they could not make the fruit cans tell worth a cent, they then got some instruments which they thought would work all right, but lo and behold the sleet came and stuck fast to the wire and it fell. So when T. H. started over to order J. W. to breakfst, as he was coming around the curve, he collided with his brother, who was coming down the line under a full head of steam, and thus the breaking of the wires of the telephone caused an accident on the narrow gauge.
Sam Kennedy=s little breeze election day cost him $61.75. This will probably learn him to tend to his own biz. PHINEAS.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Beaver Briefs.
Feeling well disposed since the late Republican victory in Beaver Township, I pencil the following items.
N. C. Heiser and sons are preparing to move to Sumner County soon.
The rum powers in Beaver are cooling down. $27 for each heat is extravagant.
John Rupp is very busily engaged in putting up wind mills for our progressive tillers.
Warren Wood has been seriously troubled with rheumatism lately, but is able to be out on crutches.
The ATramp Preacher@ has disappeared from Beaver Center, and we have instead AA high toned Christian gentleman.@
The prospect for wheat in this vicinity is flattering, and our farmers are jubilant over the expectation of a bountiful harvest.
Madam Rumor says that Athe pedagogue in District 65 has more classes than he can attend to and do justice to his physical powers.@ T. L., resign your evening class. It is small; come now, be judicious.
The Democrats have held the township offices for three years. Colonel Jones, Township Trustee, becoming so enthusiastic in his ancient Democratic policy, was the leading factor in organizing a solid Democratic election board on February 5th. This venerable sage went so far as to notify certain Democrats to be there in time to serve on the board. To the Republicans, he smileth not. It is a wonder to many intelligent citizens how he was carried so long on the shoulders of the Democrats. The Township ClerkCa good Demo-cratCpromised his position on the board to a Republican; but when the leading Buffoon=s voice sounded, he didn=t get there. When the Sachem had organized the board, he smiled upon his handiwork, and only seemed to sigh because he could not add another Democrat to that August body; then he sat down and began to chew his cud. This gentleman was pulling for the assessorship for the fourth time; but he didn=t get there. They rustled for their scattered and neglected powers, but to no avail. Count Beaver Township Republican and you are correct beyond a doubt. NOVUS HOMO.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
TRUE HAPPINESS.
Nothing is so certain to bring genuine happiness to us as to watch the happiness of others, as the result of our own sympathy or gentle words or helpful deeds. . . .
This life is more beautiful to us when we strive to increase each other=s happiness and lighten each other=s burdens. To this end we in our community have been striving for some time past. Our last effort was on Friday, Feb. 8th, at the home of Uncle John Roberts. A goodly number met to assist him in celebrating the fifty-fourth anniversary of Mrs. Roberts= birthday, which was wholly unexpected by her. Each came with baskets well filled with everything that was good in the way of eatables. Mrs. Roberts was escorted to the parlor to entertain the company, while Mrs. Robertson, J. Moore, and D. Ferguson, with John Ferguson as waiter, assisted Miss Ioa and emily in preparing supper. The table fairly groaned beneath its load of good things, which everyone enjoyed to their utmost capacity.
After supper the following presents were presented to Mrs. Roberts.
Miss Florence Prater, silver mustard spoon.
S. Bush, half dollar.
Mrs. Cora Shafer, wine glasses.
Mr. and Mrs. D. Wilson, pictures.
Mrs. Sorey, jelly glass.
Jasper Cochran, majolica pitcher.
Mrs. Frank Cochran, chair tidies.
Mr. E. W. Ferguson, set linen napkins.
Mrs. D. Robertson, apron.
Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Graham, silver butterdish.
Mrs. Mollie Ferguson, set linen napkins.
C. C. Roberts, family bible.
Charley Roberts, silver pickle castor.
Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Monforte, Jr., set linen napkins.
J. C. Roberts, marble top center table.
Miss Ioa Roberts, chandelier.
D. W. F.
[LOCATION NOT GIVEN.]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
[SKIPPED J. F. MARTIN=S REPORT FROM HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.
Actually, he was criticizing the COURIER for botching up the last report re fruits and plants that should be planted in Cowley County. GATHER HE WAS MAD!]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
BEAVER TOWNSHIP.
(Uf Wich Tannyhill Ish De Kounty seat.)
Deer bruderin in de gude vorrick of votin= down narrer gage besines und running= dings on a vide skale, I shust likes to ax you von leeble quistion: Uf you felers remembers aboud de time last yare ven de vimins pulled de brechers, und digged de vater melons, und husked de cabbage fur de sour kraut barrel, you got a letter from dis metrhropelis signed Yawcub? Vell, dot ish me. Now dens, ven my frow she finda dot an old dutchmans like me has prains enuf to rite fur de babers, she shust makes her sides shake aboud fur choy, und she be migdy glat dot she come all de vay from Chermany on foot to settle down fur life mit de ole mon in de great city ov Tannyhill. So I shust says: Ole vomans, uf it makes you und de pys so prout, I shust rites von more letter, und den quits vorrick, vares a pig shtraw stove pipe hat, shmokes a stubby pipe, drinks peer und acts de chintleman de rest ub my life. Dems de chaps vot has de money. Und gude lukin, reporters sumdimes gits a seet vay up front in de meeting house, shust fur noddings, und dot ish all ride, too.
Neber since Ole Abe sot de niggers all free, and ven de last cannon ball pusted, und de poys und graybacks in blue cum marchin= home, has dere pin such a time uv rechoicing among de vimens as der vos at our last lexun, ven it vos sure dings dot Mithur Browning be our asxsessor und Thomas Clift road overseer. Now den ve are most sartin dot de ole played oud mules and cows wots got no teeth, owned by de plack abolition party, vont pe sessed vay up so high as Demccratic thorougbreds. Ve feels sure dot de very nexth leetle owl dot comes to sthay all nite mit our schoolhouse, vill dake fur his text de busthed condition of de Democratic party uv Beaver township.
Vinter ish aboud ober. Anyways, my poy slim he seed a robin toder day und dot ish sufficient evidence to knock de cround hog theory vay up Salt Riber, vich runs now days into Dakotah, or some udder pig state pesides Tannyhill. Und dis same leedle bird=s visit means spring vill pe here before ve ish reddy fur it. Some up de farmers are cutting stalks und sm pe a blowin und de vimins dey goes visiting und dalks about vot ish to do. I ish werry villin day dry der mussails voice. Such ub dem does ven dey goes to de dable.
Sum vone dat ish smarter dan me says it ish better to go to Bliss & Wood=s mioll dan to go for Doctor Marsh. I specks his reesin fur dot konkiesion ish dot de Doctur mite pe avay at Sunday school und de feller pe vell veh he gits dere. But dis ish only an old dutchman=s guess, und dot ish not vorth much.
Dis vorld beats all de blaces I efer leeved in fur sum dings I tells you loud mity quick. Sum peeples likes burty dings so vell dey pay mosht enny brice to see a whirlegig on dere farm. Wm. Carter ub Vernon (vich ish yust north uv Tannyhil) its hisself a pig weel ever his vell, und ven de vin plows he says dot ish frist rate to pe sure. Und E. B. Gault he dells his frow dot he gits von uv dem dings too. Und he promises, py shings, it shall votter his poys, his horses, his pigs, his cows, und churn de putter, und do de veeks vashin=, und grind de corn, und he vot take tree hundred dollars fur dot wind engine. Und he ish happy. Und Mr. Holmes he bustles around and de first ding Yawcub knows he sees von ub dese dings at this house und him sayin= his garden vill receive many a soaking= dis summer ven dre ish no rain widin a dozen miles ub Tannyhill. Und den Shon Bower he gets lazy, too, und orders a mill, pig parrel, pipe, trough, und milk house und ebery dings vot=s nice, und his vife she likes him vell as eber, only a leedle more so. Und his neighbor, Shon Rupp, he dinks dey make von fine observatory, und he puts one at his farm, und on nice days he climbs to de top and flaps his vings und looks ober into Indiana to hear de dogs bark. Und Wm. McCullock, he says, AVell den I set me down in de shade und reads de news vile dot kind of a machine goes round and round de tree tops and vaters de stock.@ Und dot makes Warren Wood to hand ober de greenbacks, und py one too, before it gits away. Und Fader Clark he dinks cracious peeters dis will nebber do, und up goes a nice leetle whirlegig on his farm. Und Benson Rupp he says, AI vish von berry fine leetle chap, but I puts up de highest pole in de bishiness, und den ven I climbs to de top I ish as pig as enny body.@ Und his nabur, Mr. Ginn, gets von like id, and his vife vas bleased pecause the vawterish to be garried de house indo. Und den Mr. Myers has von put up peside his elegant new home, und vile dis ish pein= done, Mr. Fisher, uv Belle Plaine, comes to Winfield und dakes fife more, vich vas doin= gude service in dot logality. Und I does peleve de Aera Vind Mills are goin= to shtop de vind bishness dis sring und dot drouthy Kansas vill be vell vawtered hereafder. I shust dells you dis shtate vas von pig ding. She has money to py most ebery dings. Und Yawcub sthands reddy to say dot bishness ish lively in dis thoroughfare, und uf Baden vould only quit gathering all de eggs, peoples vould haf more to eat, und uf de Telegram vould turn de water works on to de narrer gage flame, der vould pe more room in Vinfield columns fur such promisin= riters as YAWCUB.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
REPLY TO MR. TOUZALIN.
Another Letter From the Railroad Commissioners.
TOPEKA, KANSAS, FEBRUARY 8, 1884.
To A. E. Touzalin, Esq., Vice President, A. T. & S. F. Railroad Company.
DEAR SIR: We are in receipt of your extraordinary letters of January 31, which were evidently intended for the public eye, rather than for the consideration of the Board of Railroad Commissioners. Were it not for the fact that you seek further information from this quarter, the propriety of our giving them any notice woud not be entirely clear. We shall pass over certain imputations upon the integrity of the proceedings of the Board with the simple remark that they possess the sole merit of being false, and were intended to be so insolent. We can well afford to receive aspersions from you without being incited to unkind feelings.
You possess the ability to be vague when it would be dangerous to be explicit, and the members of this Board have seldom had the good fortune to meet you in this latter mood. In these letters, however, you have not altogether succeeded in surrounding yourself with an atmosphere of absolute mystery, and we may be able to catch your general drift. It is due to you, and especially to those who have entrusted their interests to your keeping, that we address you without guile or concealment. We hope, therefore, that you will not blame us for painliness of speech.
It will perhaps please you best if we take up those portions of your letters which seem to call for comment or elucidation, in the order in which they appear to have been written.
In your first letter, referring to our answer to a former letter of yours, in which we expressed the opinion that the rates prescribed by us should apply without distinction to the whole of that part of your system operated in Kansas, including the auxiliary lines, as you term them, that having been your custom and policy heretofore, and no reason being known to us for a different course, you state: AIn the past our policy and custom has been to operate these auxiliary lines year after year at an absolute loss, waiting for the time to come when by reason of a continued system of reasonable rates in connection with the reasonable rates on the main line, a large business would be established, from which we should in the future receive a fair return for the investment made.@
In your return to us you have made no report of the expenses and earnings of these auxiliary lines, but they are all merged in the report of the Atchison company, so that we have no means of testing the value of this statement that this part of your system, or any of them, have been operated at a loss. We do not wish to be understood as intimating that your statement is untrue, but that we do not accept conclusions for facts.
But if at a loss, at whose loss? and what kind of a loss? At these points you fail to be explicit. The stockholders of your company have never had to reach their hands into their pockets to pay one dollar of any loss sustained in operating any auxiliary line belonging to your system. But, instead of that, over and above every loss, you have from year to year divided among the stockholders millions of dollars out of the surplus earnings, and still had a surplus with which you have bought hotels, extensive coal fields in Kansas and Colorado, built new railroads and bought great quantities of additional rolling stock, thus adding immensely to the wealth of your company without the expenditure of a single dollar by its stockholders. You report to us over two millions of dollars spent in additional construction and rolling stock the last year, and every dollar of this, together with the accumulated millions which you have been able to place to income account on your books, has been gathered from the industries of the people by what you are pleased to call Areasonable rates.@
Let us call your attention to another thing. These auxiliary lines have not been built by money furnished by the stockholders of your company. They have been built by local aid, by money gathered from the people by Areasonable rates,@ and from the money derived from the sale of bonds, for the payment of which these lines have been pledged, not one dime of which the stockholders of your company are liable for or will ever pay. But the last farthing of this debt, with every dollar of interest, will have to be paid by the people who can never derive a cent from the investment. These roads are in fact an absolute gift to the stockholders from the toiling masses, from which you are gleaning vast revenues, and still you are clamoring for millions more.
If there is any loss in operating any auxiliary line, the loss falls not on your company, but on those who pay the transportation tax, and keep up the revenues of your system.
This part of your letter is so very suggestive that we are more than tempted to follow it, and present to you some additional facts which we gather from your report. They ought to be correct, you have sworn to them. You say that the property of your company is at the value of $93,633,639.87. Whether it is worth that or not it is true that the people living along the lines of your road pay interest and dividends to the fortunate persons who hold the stock and bonds upon the basis of value. Did it ever occur to you that this vast property was not bought with money of the stockholders of the A. T. & S. F. Company? The foundation and superstruction of this vast system is chiefly built on bonds, and the one million eight hundred and seventy six thousand one hundred dollars, freely contributed by the people living along the line of the road. Every dollar of these bonds and every cent of accruing interest will have to be paid by the people, who will never get a dime of dividend from the earnings of the road. We challenge you to produce the proof, your books ought to show it, to contradict us when we assert it as our firm opinion, that not five millions of dollars of the money of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe stockholders have gone into this vast property. All the rest represents property which has been contributed by a transportation tax by the laboring masses, for the benefit of those who hold those pieces of paper, which are named stock and which you construe as carte blanche to levy unlimited tribute from the people of Kansas.
A
We have arranged rates on our line so that the debts and obligations of the company are provided for, and good fat dividends for our stockholders. Our people desire to deal not only justly but generously with you in the future as they have in the past.@We cannot believe that you correctly represent your company in contending for unreasonable rates.
Pursuing this theme in the light of your report to us, let us see how the matter stands as it respects the part of your system called the Kansas City, Topeka & Western. The length of this line, allowing double track as single, is 70 58/105 miles. The amount of bonded debt on this length of road reported to us is $3,372,800. Your report further shows that it didn=t cost this amount of money to build it, at least only a part of this went into its construction and equipment. To our question, AAmount of bonds issued and during the last three years, and on what account was the increase made?@ You answer, A$52,818,000 in part payment for the capital stock of the Kansas City Lawrence & Southern Kansas Railway Company.@ The meaning of this is that you have mortgaged the future earnings of this road to that extent to purchase stock in another road for the benefit of the stockholders in your company, every dollar of which will have to be paid for by the people who do business over that line.
You further report to us that the total cost of construction and equipment of 70 58/100 miles to June 30, 1883, was $3,399,253.56, or $48,161.71 per mile. This is what you report to us as your actual investment, and this cost is represented and covered by the bonds you have placed on the road, lacking only $16,458.56. This small sum is the amount which the stockholders of your company have had to pay, according to your own showing, for this vast property. But you were not satisfied with this; but you issued stock against this part of your line to the amount of $3,500,000, which represented the paltry sum of $16,453.56. The earnings of your road are paying the interest on that debt, and will be taxed to pay the principal, and also dividends on the stock; and you are not satisfied. This is one of the auxiliary lines you speak of.
So long as you build the auxiliary lines at the expense of the people, you will probably continue to build them.
We come next to your remarks upon local and distance tariffs; and it cannt be out of place to remark that it is not very material whether we stated in our decisions all the reasons for the difference in rates of the two tariffs. We found the two in force on your line but found that the distance tariff rates were too high; that they prevented the industrial development of the State. For instance, for a 66 mile haul on wheat your distance tariff rate was 55 percent higher than the local rate to Kansas City, and 62 percent on a haul of 200 miles. That the Kansas miller who bought wheat for his mill had to pay you 55 and 62 percent on a haul of 200 miles. That the Kansas miller who bought wheat for his mill had to pay you 55 and 62 percent, more than the Kansas City grain buyer had to pay for the same length of haul. And if so, other classes of merchandise, and these are the Aresonable rates@ with which you propose to build up Kansas industries.
You say: ATime after time have we shown to your Honorable Board that over eighty percent of our freight traffic consisted of interstate traffic passing to or from Kansas or other states. Time after time have we shown to your Honorable Board that Atchison and Kansas City proactically represent two gateways for the interstate traffic, coming into and going from the state. Time after time have we explained to your Honorable Board that the foundation which had supported us in past years is making lower rates to and from these terminal gateways were these three reasons.
1. By reason of the necessities of competition with other lines leading from Kansas to the East by other gateways north and south of Atchison, and Kansas City.
2. By reason of the necessity of lower rates than our old distance tariff rates in order to take the surplus products of a far western state like Kansas to a market far beyond the state.
3. Because the business done in train and car-load lots and in large volumes like that to and from these terminal gateways could be transported at less figures than a small and scattered local traffic, after including nearly twenty other factors of expense, besides Aswitching,@ Aempty car hauling,@ and Acar detention.@
We recognize the validity of your reasons by adopting different rates for the two schedules, making the through rates from and to terminal points lower than those on the distance. We don=t understand the point of our offense in this instance. But referring to the first paragraph quoted above, we have to confess that you have been very earnest and persistent in your efforts to enlighten us upon the subject of inter-state traffic. Your efforts have not been in the least offensive, but rather amusing. We never had much confidence in your interstate commerce theories as applied to Kansas railroads. Your theory is that upon all traffic originating in Kansas, and passing over the state line, and upon all business coming from the state line and terminating in Kansas, and all that traffic that neither originates nor terminates in Kansas, but passes over your line through the state, which constitutes, as you say, eighty percent of the whole traffic of your road, the state has nothing to do with. That you have the power to fix any rates you please upon all this traffic, unvexed by State regulations.
For the sake of the argument we may admit that upon traffic passing over your line to Kansas City, you might, in the absence of other interposing obstacles, fix your own rates. But one of your lines terminates at Atchison, and Atchison is in the State of Kansas. Even your theory admits the right of the State to fix rates from any point on your line in Kansas to and from Atchison. As you justly observe, competition fixes the rates east of the river. A shipper has substantially the same Eastern connection at Atchison as at Kansas City. The sum of the two local rates, i. e., the rate on your line and the rate east of the river constitute the through rate. Now, since the State has the power, even on your theory to fix the rates to the terminus of your line at Atchison, it has the power to affect the through rate. Of course, you couldn=t expect to persuade any Kansas shipper to ship to or from Chicago and St. Louis over your line at a rate that would exceed the sum of the two local rates, one of which the State may fix, and the other by competition. It would be an amusing performance to attempt to maintain a rate at Kansas City higher than that fixed by the State at Atchison. So that you will perceive that even your own theory don=t emancipate you from the restrictions of Sate law.
You state Ayour Honorable Board has in your recent decision adopted a distance tariff for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railrod which you state is >just, fair, and reasonable,= and which for the first seventy miles, you state, is as low as the tariffs upon the highest classes of roads in Illinois, and which, for the additional four hundred miles of the road within the State of Kansas, we find to be as low as the rates upon the highest classes of roads in some of the States east of us. How can your Honorable Board in justice and reason make a lower tariff without forcing us to apply to the courts for protection?@
You are mistaken when you say that we stated that your distance tariff over the first seventy miles of your road was as low as rates on first class roads in Illinois. If you will consult our decision, you will observe that we had reference solely to the local tariff. If we had characterized your distance tariff in comparison with rates on any eastern road, we should have been compelled to have said that it was enormously above rates upon any eastern road that we know of. To test the value of the rest of your statement, viz: that Afor the additional four hundred miles of the road within the State of Kansas you find@ [your tariff] Ato be as low as the rates upon the highest class of roads in some of the States east of us@; we will quote rates fixed by us to Newton, and those upon the Illinois Commissioners= tariff for the same distance.
Rates to Newton, 201 miles from Kansas City: First class, 61 2 cents; second class, 53 2 cents; third class, 46 2 cents; fourth class, 42 cents; wheat, 17 cents, other grains, 13 2 cents; cattle and hogs, 35.50 cents.
Illinois tariff, Commissioners= rates: First class, 52 cents; second class, 42 cents; third class, 32 2 cents; fourth class, 25 cents; wheat, 14 2 cents; other grains, 13 cents; cattle and hogs 30.50.
The other classes and commodities in the like proportion.
You then add, AHow can your Honorable Board in justice and reason make a lower tariff without forcing us to apply to the courts, and we have already shown how much you need protection.@ But we haven=t shown it all and we shall take great pleasure in assisting you in showing the courts how unreasonable we have been. By instituting an investigation of the history and character of your transactions, we will proceed to ascertain what part of your stock is bona fide and what part is illegal and bogus. We have no doubt that you will perform an unintended public service by inviting such an investigation.
You observe again, AWe see with regret that your decision has reaffirmed special rates within the State in clear violation of law, as we have been advised by three separate counsels to whom we have submitted this question, when your first decision was promulgated.@
In this again, your meaning is not apparent. We have made no special rates within the StateCwe have simply reduced those rates that we found in force on your road. If any of these rates are in violation of the law, then your company has been habitually violating the law ever since it went into effect. Is it not strange that you never discovered this dilemma until the Commissioners were compelled to reduce your rates? But you don=t even now appear to be in any haste to deliver yourself from this assumed guiltiness.
If you think two tariffs, the distance and local, cannot co-exist under the law, you have an easy remedy; you can abolish your distance tariff altogether and make a uniform tariff upon the basis of the rates fixed by us from and to Newton, Great Bend, and Osage City, and State Line. This will simplify matters, and will be in no wise an evasion of the effect of our decision. You have a right to adopt any rates below those we have prescribed.
Again you say: The following will be the rates for the nineteen miles haul for the chief articles transported coming from Atchison:
Lumber, 1 cent per 160 pounds, or $2.40 per car of 12 tons; wheat 2 cent per 100 pounds, or $1.25 per car of 12 tons; flour 1 cent per 100 pounds, or $2.50 per car of 12 tons; corn and other grains, 1 cent per 100 pounds, or $2.40 per car of 12 tons; coal 1/4 cent per 100 pounds, or 60 cents per car of 12 tons; salt, 1 cent per 100 pounds, or $3.40 per car of 12 tons; cattle and hogs, $2 per car; horses and mules, $2 per car.
Again examining the tariff made by your Honorable Board on business to and from Wichita, we find that the rates which would be allowed to us, for this nineteen miles haul, would be as follows:
Lumber, 2 cent per 100 pounds, or $1.20 per car of 12 tons; wheat, 2 cents per 100 pounds, or $4.80 per car of 12 tons; flour 2 cents per 100 pounds, or $1.80 per car of 12 tons; corn and other grain, 2 cents per 100 pounds, or $1.20 per car of 12 tons; coal, 3/4 cents per 100 pounds, or $2.12 per car of 12 tons; salt, 2 cents per 100 pounds, or $1.80 per car of 12 tons; cattle and hogs, $2.50 per car; horses and mules, $2.50 per car.
Again, you are in error, as the following will show: For a nineteen miles haul, your local tariff rate is, in cents per 100 pounds:
Tariff rates: Lumber 6 cents, wheat 6 cents, flour 6 cents, corn 5 cents, coal 4 2 cents, salt 5 cents; cattle and hogs, per car, $10.00.
Commissioners= distance tariff rate: Lumber 6 cents, wheat 7 cents, flour 7 cents, corn 6 cents, coal 3 3/4 cents, salt 6 cents; cattle and hogs, per car, $12.00.
But what you mean is the rate for nineteen miles at the end of a long haul, from Atchison to Kingman, for instance. But this you know to be misleading. If you were to divide your road for that distance into sections of nineteen miles, and charge the rate for a short haul over each section, the sum of the rates for the whole distance would confiscate every product you carried.
But you add: AA much more important point to our company in connection with this matter is not only the loss of revenue for this nineteen miles haul, but the loss of that commercial freedom in the operation of these auxiliary systems which has enabled us in the past to judiciously operate the auxiliary systems in connection with our main lines.@ You speak in other parts of your letters of the necessity to you of Acommercial freedom,@ which simply means the power or freedom to charge whatever you please.
Any State that permits the exercise of an unrestricted power by a railroad corporation to tax the people is derelict in its paramount duty of protection to its citizens. You may call this Communism, but the alternative is the subjection of the rights and property of one class to the irresponsible despotism of the other.In the ordinary business concerns of life, the two parties to a contract possess equal freedom, and neither party has the power to impose his own terms upon the other. But in the case of railroads Acommercial freedom@ means freedom for one of the parties to the contract only. The people are compelled to employ them, and if their power is not limited, to employ them upon their own terms. They have no power of choice to employ these agencies or not, and no option to accept or reject their terms. Such absolute power on the one hand, and helpless subjection on the other, means despotism for the railway corporations and slavery for the people. It is time that the common law has put an indefinite limit to this power of extortion, by saying that the charges corporations make for services shall be reasonable, but this limitation has been found to be practically unavailing for public protection, unless enforced by vigilant superivision. It has always been found that human greed coupled with power will ride roughshod over every right. The people of this State have declared against the continuance of that commercial freedom for which you sigh, and they will never again deliver themselves into your hands. Railroads are in the nature of public agencies. The public has given to this class of corporations the power to plant their public works in a definite location and to operate them there, and this carries with it the power of taxation. Where is the limit to this power? Your theory evidently is that, that limit is only reached when you have arrived at the utmost bounds of possibility, i. e., just short of exciting open rebellion against your exactions, and this carries with it every element of despotism. If the principle of reasonableness, on the other hand, means anything at all, it implies the right to collect from the business a sufficient revenue to pay the expenses of management and maintenance of the property, and a fair return upon a bona fide investment, and in estimating such fair return due allowance should be made for the risks attending this class of investments. But exactions to pay dividends on watered stock, or stock that represents no outlay, and no bona fide investment, is neither just nor reasonable.
We have shrunk from the task of prescribing rates for your road, not because it was not clearly apparent to us that existing rates were unfair and unreasonably high, but because we desired to abstain from every appearance of coercion. But you have persistently maintained your rates against every argument and every remonstrance from us, notwithstanding you were heaping up millions of surplus revenue. You forced us to do what you now complain of. Have you not exerted yourself to create a combination among railroad men to resist what we believe to be a reasonable demand of the public? We can only interpret your objection to be to break down the law. We have labored to deal justly with your company, and to do nothing that would impair its prosperity. We are fully satisfied that the rates we have fixed will leave to your company, after paying all expenses and every obligation, and the usual dividends to shareholders, a surplus. We have given the facts and figures in our decision which we believe justifies this conclusion; though you have had abundant opportunity, you have never shown the contrary.
It is far from the intention of this Board to in any manner jeopardize the railroad interests of the State, nor do we give to the law that right, inflexible and literal construction that you seem disposed to apply. The railroads have done more perhaps towards securing to this State its present prosperity than all other enterprises combined. The people of the State fully appreciate the great good that has been done them, in assisting to build up cities; encouraging immigration, thereby enhancing the value of lands otherwise comparatively worthless to the State; Auniting the prairies of our West with the market of the East,@ creating a market for the products of our lands that would otherwise realize nothing to the producer. The people of the State therefore cannot afford to confiscate railroad property nor can they afford to have railroad companies confiscate their property. Under the former management of your company, there seemed to be a disposition to meet the people upon a just and equitable basis, but if we are to judge from the tone of your letter of the 31st, ult., we fear the disposition of the management has been very materially changed.
Respectfully,
JAMES HUMPHREY,
L. L. TURNER,
Railrod Commissioners.
E. J. TURNER, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A MISTAKE.
A leading railroad manager being asked what he thought of the Commissioners letter in reply to Touzalin, replied: ATouzalin made the biggest mistake of his life by writing those three powerful letters to the commissioners.@
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
CHANGED HIS MIND.
John Starling, living near Douglass, was arrested for horse stealing and played the insane dodge so well that he was sent to the insane asylum, but after staying a few weeks, he concluded he preferred the penitentiary to living with the insane wretches at the asylum so he became suddenly sane and is now in the El Dorado jail awaiting his trial for horse stealing.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
SING SMALL, SAM.
The Kansas City Journal charges Sam Riggs, who is now so fiercely denouncing railroad land grantsCwhen nobody Aunder the broad cannister of the heaven,@ as Mrs. Partington said, is proposing to make any land grantsCwith being the person who drafted the bill giving five hundred thousand acres of school lands to four railroad companies, and with assisting in lobbying that bill through the Legislature. It also alleges that Mr. Riggs, when the attorney of the L. L. & G. Road, assisted in consumating a treaty with the Osages whereaby that corporation secured 9,000,000 acres of Kansas lands for nineteen cents per acre. It is evident that Samuel had better sing very small on the railroad land grant key.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
THE RAILROAD PROPOSITION.
The general appearance is that the railroad proposition is dead enough to need no more kicking. It is generally pretty well understood and meets with very little approval. But it may be playing possum and it is possible that the voters may be too sure of its deafeat and stay at home on election day. But it must be remembered that the measure has quite a large following in some parts of the county who will be out and vote and carry the proposition if the friends of the county stay at home. Turn out on the 11th of March everyone and vote so as to make a dead sure thing of it. It won=t hurt if it should be snowed under by two or three thousand majority.
The managers for the company have apparently weakened, seeing that it is going to be beaten, and they propose to file some more stipulations conceding or pretending to concede some of the points that have been demanded in favor of the county. If they would concede enough to make the people willing to vote for the proposition, we do not see how their concessions could be made available to the county in the present stage of the game. This filing stipulations seems to aggravate the disease rather than cure it.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
SOME QUESTIONS.
WINFIELD, Feb. 20.
EDITOR COURIER: Will you allow a subscriber to ask a few questions?
First. When matters of importance come before the people, why does the Telegram close its columns to one side and abuse its opponents, rather than seek to enlighten them?
Second. Is it true Journalism to be throwing blackguardism upon its enemies?
Third. Should a paper be read in a family that does these things?
Fourth. Will the COURIER continue as in the past, to discuss and enlighten its readers?
YOUR SUBSCRIBER.
Our answers are:
1. The Telegram gets on the weak side of some questions and abuse is then all the argument it can produce. It will of course reject arguments on the other side which it cannot answer.
2. It is often practiced by weak journals.
3. We dodge that question.
4. Yes, as far as it is able.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
COMMISSIONERS LETTER.
The answer of Commissioners Humphrey and Turney to Manager Touzalin=s three letters will be found on first page of this paper. It may not be exactly fair to Mr. Touzalin to give their side of the correspondence and omit that of Mr. Touzalin, but as we have not space for the whole, we publish that part which we heartily indorse. In justict to Mr. Touzalin, we will say that his letters are the work of a master mind and show wonderful powers of argument, skill, and adroitness. So strong and convincing were the structure of his productions that the Topeka board of trade, comprising the brainiest men of that brainy burg Atumbled to his racket,@ and published a manifesto supporting his positions.
But it appears that the brains are not all on that side of the question. Messrs. Turner and Humphrey have proved that they have a grasp on the subject not inferior to that of the railroad magnate and have the best of the argument; in fact, have captured the whole field. It shows that the old Agag@ that Anone but railroad managers of long experience can understand railroad matters@ is a fallacy. In the course of one short year these commissioners have gathered a fund of information from all sources that puts them on a par with the manager in that respect and they know how to use it in the way of their duties to the state. The executive council have been peculiarly fortunate in their selections of railroad commissioners.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
AN AMICABLE ARRANGEMENT.
By arrangement Mr. A. E. Touzalin, vice president and general manager of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad, Mr. A. A. Robinson, general superintendent, and J. F. Goddard, general traffic manager of the road, met a number of the representative businessmen of Newton, on the evening of Feb. 14th, to talk over the relations existing between the corporation and the residents of that city. The conference lasted several hours, and the whole matter was frankly discussed. The representatives of the company promised hearty cooperation in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the city, and there is no disposition to cripple or hamper the railroad company. The people are almost unanimous in desiring the prosperity of this corporation, that has done so much for the development of the state. The company is planning extensive improvements at that point within the next few months.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
THROUGH THE COUNTY AND BACK TO WINFIELD.
Editor COURIER: We have talked with many of Cowley=s citizens, and most say, the unanimous opinion is that the COURIER, has hit the narrow gauge spike right on the head. Now if, say the voters, the D. M. & A. Railroad Company mean business, let them come square before the people, with an honest contract specifying just what they will give the county, and when. Set their own time in a plain business manner, having two sides or parties to the contract giving, something for something, and the bonds would be voted by a rousing majority. Be it understood say they, we want the road. But we want a contract in black and white drawn as binding on both sides as the present proposition is on the county. Then the people will foot the bill, no odds who gets the taffy. VOTER.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
FOR CONGRESS.
The Republicans of the old second district are making a lively canvass for Funston, the Republican, and the speakers are received by large audiences with unbounded enthusiasm. Among the speakers are Hon. E. H. Funston, the nominee, Col. J. R. Hallowell, Senators Ware, Buchan, Blue, Jones, Simons, and Clarke; Hon. T. D. Thacher, Gen. Rice, Gov. Humphrey, and Col. Forsythe.
Col. Hollowell makes the following astounding exposure of S. A. Riggs, the conglomorate candidate who is running as a reformer.
UNITED STATES DISTRICT ATTORNEY RIGGS.
The important speech, however, of the evening now followed and was spoken by Col. J. R. Hollowell, the present United States district attorney of Kansas. The speech was even sensational in the character of the news it divulged or the long kept secret it disclosed. Beginning with a few eloquent and appropriate remarks, filled with enthusiasm, and the prophecy of a certain and overwhelming victory for Funston, the speaker came to talking of Sam A. Riggs, and here I give his words verbatim.
A
Mr. Riggs was originally a Republican, came into our state as such, and remained one until he was appointed United States district attorney, the second the state ever had, and was still one until he was removed from federal office at the instance of Sid Clarke for corruption, malfeasance, and dishonesty in office. Since then he has turned reformer. I speak by the record for in the United States district attorney=s office, over which I have control, are the damning proofs of Mr. Rigg=s dishonesty. I have seen them in the department of justice at Washington.A
The proofs of Rigg=s dishonesty are on file and his groom, Sidney Clarke=s, letters asking for his removal are on file. I have seen them. I speak from the record, and I defy Riggs to deny what I say, and I defy Sidney Clarke to disclaim one word I have uttered. Such a man as this Riggs is not a fit representative for this district, and his sponsor, Sidney Clarke, knows it. This purist, too, has abused, maligned, and misrepresented the honest candidate the Republicans ask you to elect, Mr. Funston, an old soldier, a man who went out with his musket and knapsack when his country was imperilled, while his traducer, an able bodied man at the time, stayed at home and even refused to join a home guard company when his own home was raided by rebel guerrillas, and desperadoes. This is all I have to say of the mongrel candidate. I defy him to deny a word I have said.@At this Col. Hollowell sat down and the meeting adjourned. Then a great crowd gathered around him, and one and all exclaimed, AWhat do you mean, Hollowell!@
AI mean what Sid Clarke knows well and what most of the old time leaders in the state know.@
AWhat is that?@ here interposed our correspondent.
A
I mean that when C. C. Hutchinson defaulted as agent of the Ottawas for $42,000, Riggs as United States Attorney, failed to prosecute him and let the case go for the defendant against the government when all the witnesses were in attendance. Their testimony was declined, an inspection followed, and Riggs= arrest was ordered. His removal was decided upon and then Riggs appeared as Hutchinson=s attorney and succeeded in getting the Ottawa Indians to free Hutchinson of the debt, promising to get all the money back if they would pay him $16,000. The Indians agreed, but Riggs failed to keep his part of the agreement. But before this Judge A. H. Horton was appointed district attorney and ordered to get a rehearing of the case, which he did, and got judgment for the government or the Indians in the full amount of $42,000. The proofs are as strong as holy writ, and the official documents eternally and forever strip Riggs of every vestige of even pretended honesty. A reformer indeed!@Col. Hollowell=s statement, and the emphatic manner in which he makes it, has created a great excitement, and is the sensation of the present campaign
[ARTICLE SOMETIMES SAID SIDNEY CLARK INSTEAD OF CLARKE.]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
SANTA FE RAILROAD.
How It Complies.
Today is the time fixed by the railroad commissioners for its decisions with relation to the reduction of freight charges on the A. T. & S. F. railroad and its auxiliary lines to take effect, but we suppose the railroad managers do not intend to make the change. They have however issued general orders to adopt the rates of the decisions, as follows.
First. An order establishing distance tariff rates on the whole main lines.
Second. An order establishing those same rates on the branch lines.
Third. An order demanding that the same system of mileage shall be established on the branches as well as the main lines.
Fourth. An order demanding that the same system of rates and mileage shall be used on the Leavenworth, Topeka and Southwestern railway and the Manhattan, Alma, and Burlingame railroad, which it seems are neither owned nor operated by the Atchison company.
Fifth. An order making certain special rates to and from Atchison, Leavenworth, and Kansas City.
The manager announces that the road will comply with the first four orders, but with the fifth he asserts that the road is unable to comply, claiming that it conflicts with the law itself and would subject them to penalties.
These four first orders relate only to Adistance rates,@ as they are called but do not notice the Alocal rates,@ that is, rates between Missouri river points and stations in the interior of the state. These rates they propose to avoid by legal action and have procured a temporary injunction before Judge Martin.
The petition for the injunction is on behalf of Geo. B. Wilbur, who holds $322,000 of the Santa Fe stock, by Touzalin, his agent, and Williams & Dillon attorneys, and against the Santa Fe Company and the railroad commissioners as defendants. It claims that unless the injunction is made permanent, the railroad company will reduce rates and the commissioners will enforce the reduction by suits at law and otherwise to the great damage of the plaintiff, Geo. B. Wilbur, in a great reduction of his dividends.
It then goes on to recite the points relied upon to sustain the injunction, which are, substantially: 1st, that the law as interpreted by the commissioners, regulates interstate commerce, which is unconstitutional; 2nd, the decision fixes special rates in excess of authority conferred by law; 3rd, the decision violates the charters, privileges, and powers of the railroad company conferred by law, and impairs the obligations of the contract created by law; 4th, that the commissioners have no authority to fix rates on interstate commerce; 5th, that the decision was not rendered by the full board, but by only two members, and is therefore invalid. That the rates fixed are so low as to cut off dividends.
Tomorrow is fixed for a hearing of the arguments on the petition.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
SHOULD PASS.
The fact that the Reagan AInter-State commerce@ bill proposes to prohibit different rates for long and short hauls, makes it a measure fatal to Western interests. For, if the railroads are compelled to give the grain of Ohio and Michigan, and the cattle of New York and Pennsylvania, this enormous advantage in rates for transportation over the grain of Minnesota or Kansas, and the cattle of Texas, it would practically shut the far western States out of the markets of the East. The Western representatives should see to it that no Inter-State commerce bill embodying such a prohibition as this is passed. Journal.
We do not see it in that light. The haul from Chicago to New York is about 15 cents per 100 pounds for 1000 miles, which is at the rate of 1 2 cents per 100 lbs. for 100 miles. This would add only 7 2 cents per 100 lbs. to Kansas City, making 22 2 cents and not over 4 cents more from Winfield, making 26 2 cents from Winfield to New York. The farmers of the west would be mighty glad to be ruined in that way for it would carry their grain and stock to New York for little more than they now pay for the first 250 to 300 miles.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
My Standard Riding Cultivator gives the best of satisfaction. I have never seen its equal. Amos Biddle.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Dissolution Notice.
The partnership heretofore known and doing business in Winfield, Kansas, as Pugsley & Zook, have this day dissolved by mutual consent.
J. W. PUGSLEY,
P. W. ZOOK.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Constant Items.
A great deal of sickness is reported.
We think Beaver will vote solid against the narrow gauge railroad.
Who has ever seen so much damp, gloomy weather in Kansas before?
Uncle Milt Roseberry, who has been on the sick list, is convalescing slowly.
Wheat looks much better than it did two weeks ago, owing to the thaw-out.
We would much rather see that new Constant church than to see that new Constant Bell.
Rev. Phillips will begin a series of meetings this week at the Pleasant Valley church in Beaver township.
The Sunday school at Pleasant Valley is in a flourishing condition under the management of C. W. Roseberry.
DIED. Mr. Allen=s little son who has been sick for some time died yesterday morn at 9 o=clock, and will be buried today (Feb. 11th) at 10 o=clock.
The farmers are about all through gathering corn in this vicinity, and a great many of them are shelling preparatory to haul it off to market.
We have been told that Phinnie Marsh was fined $100 and costs, all amounting to over $139. Phinnie, you must be careful how you sell whiskey to little boys hereafter.
There will be a grand festival at the Holland schoolhouse next Thursday evening. Benefits go toward the new Constant church. A good time is anticipated by all.
We would be pleased to have Josh tell who it was got ditched while returning home from the oyster supper at Mr. Cunningham=s. We sincerely hope there were no joints thrown out of place or bones broken.
The candy pulling at Ed. Hunt=s last Wednesday night proveds to be a success. The entertainment of the eve consisted in playing and pulling taffy, eating apples and pop corn, and violin music by George Beach, Buck Tannehill, M. S. Roseberry, and others. Buck is good on giving the girls taffy. Let us have another soon. Y. W. C.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Missouri Letter.
APPLETON CITY, MISSOURI, Feb. 10, 1884.
ED. COURIER: Thinking a few lines from this part of Missouri might be of importance to your many readers, I will pen you a few items. I like this part of Missouri pretty well as far as I have seen. Land has advanced in value from 10 to 20 dollars per acre since I came here. Good farms that are well improved are worth from 40 up to 50 and as high as 60 dollars per acre. Appleton City is a business place with about 1500 inhabitants, but it don=t come up to Winfield in improvements. No water-works nor gas yet. I have 170 acres 2 miles from Appleton City in Nots County.
I gave $30 per acre and can get $40 any day. When I get $50 then I think I will sell and go back to Cowley. Have had a very cold winter here: the coldest tht it has been for many years. Think all the peach buds are killed. ROBERT WHITE.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Council Proceedings.
Council met Monday evening. City Attorney was granted further time to prepare vagrancy ordinance. Committee on streets and alleys was allowed further time to report on sidewalk petition of W. P. Hackney et al.
Following accounts were ordered paid.
Vance & Colling, team and carriage: $4.50.
B. F. Herrod, burying dogs and moving stone: $3.00.
G. W. Crane & Co., six registration books: $6.00.
John Weitzenboltzzer, work on street: $1.25.
E. F. Sears, crossings: $4.20.
F. W. Finch, boarding city prisoners: $22.50.
Council contracted with F. W. Finch for board of city prisoners at 75 cents per day.
D. L. Kretsinger was confirmed as chief fire marshal.
The mayor appointed J. W. Arrowsmith city assessor and appointment confirmed.
Mr. Kretsinger stated that he had appointed Mr. Clatworthy captain of fire company No. 1, and F. W. Finch captain of fire company No. 2. Fire marshal was instructed to procure lanterns, trumpets, and other necessary supplies for the use of the fire department.
City clerk was instructed to notify English Bros. that the city has on hand something over $900.00 to apply on their orders, and for them to send orders to a bank here for payment to that extent.
Appointment of James McLain as night watch at $2.00 per night confirmed.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Dissolution Notice.
WINFIELD, KANSAS, Feb. 13th, 1884.
NOTICE is hereby given that the firm of Albro & Dorley has been this day dissolved by mututal consent. All accounts due the firm have been left with Mr. S. D. Pryor for collection.
W. H. ALBRO,
W. F. DORLEY.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
[SKIPPED SCHOOL LAND SALE NOTICE CONCERNING ABOUT 14 SCHOOL LANDS THAT WERE TO BE OFFERED FOR SALE TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER ON MARCH 14, 1884.]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Publication Notice.
TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Francis Barclay, C. E. Fuller, F., W. McClelland, and Willard J. Wilson, will present a petition to the Board of County Commisioners of Cowley County, State of Kansas, at the next regular meeting of said Board, to be begun and held at the Courthouse in said county, on the first Monday of April, 1884, praying the vacation of the alley running through block two hundred and fifty (250) in the city of Winfield, in said county and State, being in Fuller=s Addition.
FRANCIS BARCLAY,
F. W. McCLELLAND,
WILLARD J. WILSON,
C. E. FULLER.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
THE MARKETS.
The markets are steady with wheat 90 cents, corn 34 cents, hogs $6.50 per cwt., and hay $4.50 per ton, chickens, alive 6 cents, dressed 8 cents, turkeys alive 9 cents, dressed 11 cents, potatoes 75 cents, butter 20 cents, and eggs 15 cents. It will be observed by comparison with our telegraphic report from Kansas City that we are 4 1/4 cents higher on wheat. Bliss and Wood bought a lot from a gentleman east of Arkansas City at that price Monday. Later: A telegram just received as we go to press announces a drop of 4 cents in the Chicago wheat market. [NOTE: I SKIP THE KANSAS CITY MARKET REPORTS!]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
PERSONALS.
Remember the oyster supper at the Methodist church next Tuesday evening.
A little girl=s cape was picked up on the street Thursday and left at this office.
Perry Tucker, one of Bryan & Lynn=s steady clerks, recently spent a week with Kansas City relatives.
Tony Agler had his shoulder blade broken last week while helping Mr. Andrews unload a car of horses.
The citizens of Oxford have raised $4,000 for a bridge across the Arkansas at that place. It will be put in at once.
Mr. Bard has retired from the real estate firm of Bard & Harris, leaving the business in the hands of Mr. Harris.
Mrs. Geo. Rembaugh returned Monday evening from a three weeks visit with friends in Leavenworth and Kansas City.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
[MORE PERSONALS.]
Floral has been improving some this winter. Three new buildings have gone up and a neat and comfortable Baptist Church.
Mr. R. R. Conklin came down from Kansas City Friday evening and spent a day in the city looking after the business interests of the firm.
Our German friend, AYawcob,@ from the mazy precincts of Tannehill, comes to the front on the first page of this issue. Yawcob is a genius.
Rev. J. Cairns assisted last Sunday in the dedication of the new Baptist Church at Elk Falls. His pulpit in this city was filled in his absence by Rev. E. P. Hickok.
A protracted meeting is in progress at Floral in charge of Rev. Solomon Ferguson and F. McEwan. The meetings have now been in progress three weeks and the converts number fifteen.
Rev. James Cairns has lost some books which he needs very much; probably has loaned them and the borrowers have not returned them. Anyone having a book belonging to him will confer a great favor by returning it immediately.
Jim Hill bought the Jewett quarter section six miles north of Winfield two months ago for five thousand dollars. He sold it last week for six thousand five hundred: an advance of ten dolalrs per acre in sixty days.
Mr. Mallman brought an egg to A. T. Spotswood Friday which is a natural curiosity. It is half white and half brown. The line is as distinctly drawn as if it had been painted. The egg had been laid the day before.
Rev. Cairns went over to Elk Falls Sunday and assisted in the dedication of the new Baptist Church at that place. Over five hundred dollars was raised and the indebtedness on the church entirely liquidated.
Gen. Butler has a profound disregard for petitions. AYou could get in Massachusetts 10,000 men to sign a petition to have me hanged,@ he says, Aand half the number would sign a petition to have themselves hanged without knowing what they were doing.@
The reply of the State Board of Railroad commissioners to Mr. Touzalin, of the Santa Fe, appears on our first page this week. It is a most keen and comprehensive document, means business from the start, and gives a clearer insight into railroad mattears than has ever heretofore been accorded an humble citizen of this commonwealth.
From the Kansas Farmer stray list, we see that T. R. Corson, of Richland Township, has taken up a 3-year-old red steer branded X on left hip. L. A. Bass, of Bolton, a white poney branded R. T. on left thigh, and a bay horse colt fore foot and hind foot white. O. J. Palmer, of Bolton, a yearling mare mule, and a yearling brown horse colt.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A gentleman was in the city from Missouri last week looking up the evidence in a very peculiar case. It seems that some months ago a lady living with her husband in the Territory, while on a visit to the state, met and became enamored of a young and dashing cavalier of one of our eastern counties. The affair resulted in a separation between the lady and her husband and a division of property, she receiving $2,200 as her share. After the separation she started toward the state, and met the aforesaid chevalier at Ferguson=s ranch, south of Arkansas City. Here she confided to his care $1,400 of the $2,200, for the purpose of setting him up in the cattle business. She then went on to Iowa to visit friends, while the man in the case proceeded to invest the funds. Soon after she died, and her relatives now seek to recover the money. The man in the case is at present running a livery stable in one of the border towns of Montgomery County.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
We advise every person in Cowley County who intends to start an orchard now or in the future to preserve the article by Mr. Jas. F. Martin, on the first page of this paper. Mr. Martin is president of the Cowley County Horticultural Society, also of the County Fair Association, and his conclusions are drawn from practical experience in Cowley County, not by himself alone, but by the fifty or more members of the County Horticultural Society. These two societies, under the enthusiastic leadership of Mr. Martin, supplemented by the hearty cooperation of such men as Messrs. Nixon, Hogue, Hawkins, Robertson, Millspaugh, Linn, Maxwell, and a host of others are doing a work for the advancement of the agricultural interests of our county valuable beyond measure.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. T. J. Harris made the largest land sale last week ever made in Cowley County. The sale was made to James Bruington, of Galesburg, Illinois, and consisted of the old Jewett place, 160 acres, belonging to J. L. M. Hill, $6,500; the Henry Weimer quarter section adjoining, $4,500; the Robt. Kimbrough quarter, $1,500; the Bowman and Barrett quarter, $1,600; making a total of 640 acres for $14,100.00. This makes one of the finest farms that lays out of doors anywhere. Mr. Bruington will remove here with his family in the spring and will bring with him a large amount of capital, which will be invested in our county. He will improve and stock his place in first-class shape. The farm joins the station of Seeley on the A. T. & S. F. Road.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
James H. Bullen and John W. Gibson, of Winfield, have formed a partnership and will open an extensive lumber yard in Kingman just as soon as the weather breaks up. They have secured the vacant lots opposite the Laclede hotel and have a new office already built and some lumber on the ground. Mr. Bullen has $200,000 worth of lumber in the pineries of Wisconsin, and a large yard at Winfield. The Winfield yard last year sold $90,200 worth of lumber. Mr. Gibson will remove here and have charge of the Kingman yard. Several car loads of lumber are now at Hutchinson, but they will hereafter ship to Cheney. Kingman is attrcting businessmen from all parts of the country. Republican.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Kingman has been much agitated over the railroad question. General Manager Touzalin went out there last week and informed the people that the road would not be completed to that place until the Railroad Commissioners withdrew their tariff, or as he expressed it, until the road could be assured of Acommercial freedom.@ After that a love feast was held by the citizens at which the railroad prospect was gloomily discussed. Finally one of the leading citizens became excited, rose up, and spoke right out in meeting thusly: AShentlemens, shust dell dot Zanta Ve railroat to go to h--l! ---unt dey vill come to Kingmans right avay!@ His motion prevails unanimously.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Cowley County and Winfield have received a most valuable acquisition during the past week in the person of J. R. Long, of Chautauqua County. Senator Long has removed here with his family, purchased the Tomlin & Webb stock of groceries, and will open out in good shape in the course of two weeks. Mr. Long is one of the bright, pushing young men of the state and a leader in business as well as in political circles.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The first number of the Arkansas City Republican is out. It is a neat paper and has wisely adopted our suggestion of a few weeks ago in making an all home print, and starts with sixteen columns of advertising: a most unusual sign of prosperity for a first issue. It has the serious fault of being too large, and looks Apadded.@
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mrs. H. P. Mansfield will leave for Washington on Friday of this week, as a representative to the National Woman Suffrage Convention, which meets on the 4th of March. She will visit in St. Louis, Cincinnati, Baltimore, Richmond, Charleston, and take a run up the St. John River, during her absence.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A gentleman put a package containing $25 worth of silk into the hands of Adams Express agent on the train at Arkansas City one day last week. When they arrived at Winfield, the package was missing. The agent says he saw it in the car five minutes before pulling out. Its disappearance is a mystery.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Miss Ella Green was in the city Tuesday in the interests of a St. Louis paint house. She is one of the most successful drummers on the road and the only lady who has ever made a success of that business. She earns a salary of $1,800 per year and expenses. She is a sister of A. H. Green.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
From the Arkansas City Democrat we learn of a very severe accident which happened to an eight year old son of D. H. Mason, Pleasant Valley Township. He fell through the rafters of a new building, breaking several bones. The injuries will not be fatal.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. Prettyman Knowles, one of the old pioneer residents of the county, and who entered the quarter joining Winfield on the west, returned from Indiana last Thursday and will make Cowley his home once more. He says there is no place like it.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Oxford Register, a bright looking sheet, comes to us this week from the newspaper graveyard over on the Arkansas. Messrs. Martin & Converse are first-class newspaper men and certainly courageous.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Ladies of the Presbyterian Mite Society give an Oyster supper at the schoolhouse in Tisdale Friday evening, Feb. 22. All are cordially invited.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Go to Lynn=s in two weeks and you can see the only true Narrow Gauge Railroad system in operation in Southern Kansas, and it will be built without bonds.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
SUICIDE!
Sudden Ending of a Long and Useful Life.
At about eleven o=clock on last Sunday morning, Mr. R. B. Wood, father of Mr. B. F. Wood, of the milling firm of Bliss & Wood, committed suicide by hanging, at his residence. For some time previously his mind had been in an unsound condition, so much so that he was seldom left alone. On this morning he seemed stronger and brighter than usual, and mentioned the fact to his wife and urged her to go to church, that, feeling as he did, it would be perfectly safe to leave him with the little boys. She concluded to go, and when starting off, she noticed that he held in his hand a small stick of pine about a foot long and that he looked after here in an unusual manner. He went from the sitting room shortly after, his absence being unnoticed by the little boys who were with him. One of the boys soon after went to the cellar for some cobs, and on opening the door, which led in from a cellar way going down from the south porch, the dead body of his father fell back on the cellar floor. The little fellow recognized the situation and gave the alarm. The old gentleman had taken the stick before mentioned, tied a piece of cotton line rope in the center of it, gone down cellar and placed the stick on the outside of the door, and then shut it. The rope was small enough to interfere in no way with latching the door. He then, from appearances, placed a three gallon tin coal oil can against the door, got upon it, and after tying the rope around his neck, kicked the can from under himself. He seemed to have made no struggles, probably from the weak condition of his body. He looked as calm and tranquil as though in a peaceful sleep, the only scar appearing on his person being a small cut on the right hand, where he had probably thrown it out against the stone wall. An inquest was held by Justice Snow Sunday evening, the Coroner being inaccessible, and a verdict of self destruction by hanging, found.
About the time of the burning of Bliss and Wood=s Mill, the deceased made Cowley a visit and spent some time with his son in this city. He was delighted with our county and determined to return to his home in Adams County, Ohio, dispose of the old homestead on which he had resided for thirty-five years, and bring his wife and two little sons, who are aged respectively twelve and fourteen, with his effects to Cowley County. On his return to Ohio he suddenly began to decline in mind and body, but his energetic spirit enabled him to prepare for the removal and get as far as Franklin, Indiana, where he stopped to visit two daughters. Here his mind became so enfeebled that, upon medical examination, it was thought that the only alternative left was to place him in the asylum at Indianapolis, where he was taken. He remained there from April to August last, when upon his slight improvement, Mr. B. F. Wood went on, secured his furlough from the asylum, and brought him to Winfield, where he has since resided with his family. The old gentleman seemed to recuperate here in body, and at times his mind was quite rational. Though able to talk with the family occasionally, he several times complained of his condition and wished that he had the nerve to take his life, but said that there was no danger of his doing so for the likelihood of his being strong enough was very impossible. He had been partially deaf for the past five years. During his residence in Winfield, he had been from the house but once or twoce, being able, at one time, to attend church.
Mr. R. B. Wood was born in New York State in the year 1816, and was, therefore, in his sixty-eighth year at the time of death. While young he moved with his parents to Ohio. At the age of seventeen he was converted and joined the Baptist Church. Three years after he was elected deacon of the Morefield, Ohio, Baptist Church, and filled the position for over forty years. On March 9, 1838, he was married to Susan Ann Ferguson, who died November 2, 1867. On November 5, 1868, he was married to Mary Wertman, who still survives him, aged fifty. He was the father of twelve children, all now living, ten by his first wife and two by his second, eight of whom are married and with their companions, are Baptists. Including his grandchildren, thirty of his descendants are Baptists. A daughter in Washington Territory, aged twenty-four, has recently been appointed to a missionary field in India, and will go to it in a short time. Two daughters reside in Franklin, Indiana, one of them the wife of Rev. Norman Carr, who is traveling representative of the Franklin Baptist College, and the other the wife of J. W. Montcrief, Prof. of Ancient History and Literature in the same college. A son, Prof. James Wood, is Supt. of Public Schools of Salem, Indiana. Two sons reside in Kansas, Rev. and B. F. Wood. The oldest son lives at Norwalk, Ohio, and the oldest daughter on a farm joining the Ohio homestead. The oldest child is forty-four years old and the youngest twelve.
The funeral services were held at the Baptist Church on Wednesday at 2 o=clock p.m., Rev. J. Cairns officiating.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A New Opera House.
Several of our enterprising citizens are getting matters in shape to build a magnificent opera house on the lots opposite the Brettun. The house is to cost from ten to twelve thousand dollars and will be built by placing twenty-five shares of $500.00 each. Most of these shares are already spoken for. A responsible party agrees to guarantee ten percent on the investment for the first year. This is an important enterprise and wilol be an excellent improvement for the city.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
W. R. McDonald, of the firm of McDonald & Miner, left for the east this morning. While gone he will visit the markets of Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and Chicago, where he will buy the largest stock of dry goods, notions, and carpets ever brought to Winfield. It is their intention to make every department complete and he will buy a complete stock of men, boys= and youths and children=s clothing. As the old year was the most prosperous they have yet had in business, and have now entered a still more prosperous year, it is their purpose to demonstrate the ability of the firm to supply the demand of the trade on the most reasonable terms consistent with the highest standard of quality.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. J. Leeds, Assistant General Freight Agent of the A. T. & S. F. railroad, was in the city Tuesday and made a visit to the Moore stone quarry on Black Crook southeast of town. The object of this mission is not known, but is probably connected with the building of a switch out to the quarry. One fact is certain and that is that our stone is attracting attention from far beyond the borders of the state. Its future development means great things for Winfield.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Case, of this city, opened their house on last Saturday evening to the young folks for a leap year party. Quite a large number were present and the young ladies did the elegant in fine style. Leap year parties are a very pleasant noveltyCto the gentle-menCand we wonder that the ladies don=t project more of them.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
We hear that Mr. Geo. Gardenshire of Torrance, lost fifty hogs by cholera last week. If this is the case, it is the first appearance of the disease in the county. Let the matter be looked into at once. If any of the residents of that vicinity know of the circumstances, the readers of the COURIER would like to hear from them. [Gardenhire?]
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. Solomon Teter of St. Clair County, Illinois, is visiting his brother in Beaver Township. He is seventy-five years old and owns the farm on which he was born. He is very much pleased with Kansas and Cowley County, but thinks he is a little too old to attempt a removal.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The M. E. Church will have an oyster supper at the church Tuesday evening.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. J. A. Case, late of this place, has gone into the hotel business at Kingman.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
MARRIED. Miss Bonnie Anderson, formerly of Winfield, was married at Leavenworth Monday. Mr. Ed. Burke, at one time connected with the Daily Telegram, carried off the prize.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Garlick entertained the Good Templars Tuesday night. It was the regular bi-weekly social and was very enjoyable; it could not be otherwise with this pleasant family.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Miss Floretta Shields has returned from Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a visit of a few weeks among friends in this vicinity. She reports the Winfield people at Albuquerque are doing well and enjoying life.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The W. C. T. U. received a dispatch Tuesday evening anouncing the inability of Hon. E. Carswell to fill his Winfield appointment Friday evening, owing to sickness. Mrs. Marion Baxter will fill his place with her famous lecture, ADriftwood.@
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. M. J. O=Meara, of the boot and shoe firm of O=Meara & Randolph, left last week for Chicago to purchase a spring stock. Their gentlemanly and efficient salesman, Mr. Geo. Headrick, has charge of the business in the absence of Mr. O=Meara.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. W. F. Dorley sold his sorrel pacer Monday to Carrie Roberts, of Walnut Township, the consideration being two hundred dollars. Mr. Dorley has disposed of about all of his Winfield property and will go east to find a remedy for the rheumatism with which he has been very seriously afflicted for some time past.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The mere announcement of the fact that the Wilberforce Univesity Singers will appear in the Opera House on Monday evening next, will, we think, fill the House on that occasion. They were received on their former visit with loud encomiums. They come under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church of this city. Tickets on sale at Goldsmith=s.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Messrs. J. S. Lyon & Co. have opened out a complete stock of plumbing, steam, and gas-fitting goods at the store of Horning and Whitney. They are practical plumbers and gass fitters, having had long experience in that line, and with their large and excellent stock of goods, will be a very valuable acqusition to our city and citizens. We recommend that persons who want work or goods in the line to call and see them.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
MARRIED. Mr. George Case and Miss Maggie Ball were married at the M. E. Church last Sunday at the close of the morning services. George is one of our most substantial young men, and his bride is a young lady of many excellent qualities. From the present outlook they have before them a successful and happy wedded life. This is the sincere wish of their many friends. The COURIER acknowledges the receipt of wedding cake, with compliments of the bride. Mr. and Mrs. Case will make their home in Douglass after March 1.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The lecture of W. R. Kirkwood at the Opera House on Monday evening for the benefit of the city library was one of the best a Winfield audience has had the opportunity of hearing and netted a neat little sum for the library association. The lecture, on the subject AThe Egyptian Pyramids,@ was queer, interesting, and instructive. It was handled in Mr. Kirkwood=s most finished manner. All present were highly pleased, and only regretted that the length of the lecture necessitates a brief sketching of the latter part.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The following MARRIAGE LICENSES have been granted by Judge Gans since our last issue.
Garrett J. Fitzgerald to Mary C. Chappell.
John Goforth to Amnier Brock.
Wilbur Watkins to Ida M. Wilson.
Samuel Stalsworth to Martha Hughes.
Geo. E. Case to Maggie Ball.
Austin Gilstrap to Dora Darnell.
Samuel W. Kimmell to Annie Jones.
Wm. P. Trout to Eva Anderson.
Samuel C. Cunningham to Julia A. Mainer.
Alvin Gaff to Lidia Gills.
At the rate of ten marriages a week, the number of persons enjoying Asingle blessedness@ in Cowley will soon be exhausted.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
An almost fatal accident happened Monday morning at Wm. Moore & Sons stone quarry east of the city. A blast was put in and the fuse fired, and as the men supposed the fire had gone out, they commenced to redrill the same hole and when near the bottom the blast went off. Mr. I. N. Johnson, Hoffman, and another man were doing the work and were pretty severely hurt. The latter saw the stones and dirt move in time to jump back and save himself injury, but Mr. Johnson was standing directly over the blast and had his face and arms completely peppered with dirt and small stones. Mr. Hoffman standing very near also recewived similar injuries. Dr. Padget was summoned and after dsressing and examining the wounds, pronounced them not very dangerous, but the injured parties will be laid up for some time. The men, before redrilling the hole, had taken the precaution to fill it with water, else the effect of the explosion would have been fearfully disastrous. Powder can kick with more ferocity than a mule, and takes as much care in handling, yet the greatest precaution does not always prevent serious results.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A boiler explosion occurred on the east-bound K. C., L. & S. K. freight train last Friday morning, and the engineer was very badly scalded. A leak was noticed in the boiler while the train was here, and the engineer, Wm. H. Raub, tried to plug it up till he could get to the Cherryvale machine shops. Some distance this side of Cherryvale, the plug came out and the boiler bursted, throwing the engineer from the cab and scalding his face, hands, and legs terribly. He was brought to his family in Winfield Tuesday, and is under the care of Dr. Mendenhall, the company=s physician, and is now improving.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Will Higgins, one of the best known and most popular fellows in Kansas, was in the city Wednesday and made the COURIER a pleasant call. He has been appointed sergeant-at-arms of the National Republican Committee. If Will can=t handle the thousands who will attend the National convention at Chicago in June, no one can.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
A. M. Burt=s house, on the Walnut about five miles northeast of Arkansas City, took fire at 3 a.m., Saturday, and burned to the ground. Loss eight hundred dollars. The occupants only saved what clothing they had on. It was a new house and a defective flue caused the fire. An agent offered to insure the house only a few days previous.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Sheriff McIntire gathered in P. [?] S. Marston and McStraight last Friday, charged with breaking into a car at Arkansas City and abstracting some canned goods, tobacco, and other merchandise. When George goes after a law-breaker, he generally brings him in. The thieves were making for the Territory.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
W. M. Null, of Cowley County, was arrested a few days ago by Deputy Sheriff Schran and will have a preliminary examination before Esquire Lobdell. Mr. Null is charged with borrowing money from Mr. Wilkie, of Douglass, on a chattel mortgage and disposing of the property so mortgaged. El Dorado Republican.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mrs. Parkins, wife of the Superintendent of the Stone, Brick, and Tile Co., came in Monday evening. A lot of employees of the company with their families came in also on the same train. Within sixty days the company will have fifty men employed, which will be rapidly increased to one hundred.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. A. Herpich, the merchant tailor, has received a large and elegant stock of spring suitings. all the latest designs. He extends an invitation to the general public to call and examine his goods. No person can fail to make a selection on seeing this stock. All work guaranteed.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Womans= Christian Temperance Union meets every other Tuesday at 4:15 p.m., at the Kindergarten rooms. Next meeting March 4th. Officers newly elected: Mrs. Emma Smith, President; Mrs. Amy H. Fisk, Secretary; Mrs. McMullen, Treasurer. All are cordially invited to attend.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Ladies of the Christian Church are preparing to give one of their elegant suppers at the Opera hall on the evening of February 29th. The proceeds to be used in completing their church building. Further particulars next week.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Winfield Post, No. 85, G. A. R., opens tonight (Wednesday) the presentation of the AGerman Volunteer,@ a late and popular war drama, at the Opera House. The proceeds go to the relief fund of the Winfield Post and should receive a liberal patronage.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
BIRTH. Mr. Lewis Grimes, of New Salem, is being more than favored by fickle fortune. Some days ago his wife presented him with a fine boy, and shortly after the family cow gave birth to three calves, all large, well developed, and healthy. New Salem is ahead.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Arrangements have been made to hold a grand mass temperance convention, lasting several days, in Winfield soon, under management of our temperance societies. Particulars will be given next week.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
For Sale. A choice, fresh milch cow, some yearling grade calves, and a thoroughbred Berkshire board, at my farm 3 2 miles southwest of Winfield. H. T. Shivvers.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Winfield orchestra furnishes the music for the AGerman Volunteers,@ Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings of this week. The cast for the AGerman Volunteers,@ is first class in every respect and our citizens may expect a splendid entertainment.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. Edward Hilton, of Maryville, Missouri, uncle of the writer, is visiting in Winfield.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
On Tuesday evening of last week Mrs. M. L. Whitney threw her pleasant home open for the reception of invited friends. Among those present were Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Kirkwood, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. McCloud, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Beeny, Mr. and Mrs. I. W. Randall, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Doane, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Allen, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Horning, Mrs. Dr. Van Doren, Mrs. D. L. Kretsinger, Mrs ____ White, Miss Martin, and Miss Mary Hamill. Refreshments formed an interesting supplement at the proper hour and under the royal entertainment of the hostess and family, the company pronounced it one of the most pleasant social gatherings of the winter.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Fire Department.
The following is the organization and enrollment of the Fire Department.
City Fire Marshal, D. L. Kretsinger; 1st Asst. Marshal, James Clatworthy; 2nd Asst. Marshal, Frank Finch.
Hose Company No. 1. Jas. Clatworthy, Captain.
Members: W. Lanagan, M. L. Garrigue, W. A. Kuhns, J. W. Hall, John Riley, E. Borghert, C. R. Delay, Frank Cropton, S. Crandall, E. C. Green, Ed Cochran.
Hose Company No. 2. Frank Finch, Captain.
Members: F. L. Noble, W. H. Clark, R. S. Howard, John Wooden, R. D. Rodgers, F. A. Whitney, E. F. Nelson, F. J. Pierce, A. McNeil, C. Trump, and W. S. Brown.
The Department is now thoroughly organized and under the efficient management which Mr. Kretsinger gives any enterprise he takes hold of, assisted by Jas. Clatworthy and Frank Finch, will down any fire that has courage enough to show its little light.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
School Funds.
The County Superintendent has received $2,409.00, our semi-annual apportionment of the State school fund. It is 35 cents per capita for all school children. He has also made an apportionment of the county funds accruing from violations of the Prohibitory Law in Cowley County during the last six months. It amounts to $2,836.53, being 35 cents for each school child in the county. Out of this whiskey fund the Winfield schools get $860.15, Arkansas City $211.40, Dexter $44.30, Cambridge $35.00, Burden $63.00, Udall $27.00, New Salem $35.35, Maple City $36.75, and so on all over the county. So it seems that the fellows who have been so anxious to sell liquor lately have been ccmpelled to run the schools of the county about a month. The total of State and county funds is $5,246.13, for six months. Ten thousand dollars a year is quite an item in the expense of running our schools.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Lenten Lectures.
The Rev. Wm. Brittain will deliver a course of lectures in the Courthouse on the Sunday evenings during Lent. The subjects will be taken from Old Testament History. The inttroductory lecture will be delivered next Tuesday evening.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Equal in previous arrangement and interest to the grand masquerade ball in January, will be the Firemen=s Ball to be given at the Opera House by citizens of Winfield on next Wednesday evening, February 27th, the proceeds to go for the equipment of our Fire Company. The Committee of arrangement embrace prominent men who are interested and have the experience to make everytthing pass off successfully. It wil undoubtedly be the most elevated occasion of the winter. We all understand the importance and should feel a pride in having Winfield=s Fire Company uniformed in a manner creditable to the city. The way to accomplish it is to get our ladies and all turn out on this occasion. Handsome invitations have been widely circulated.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. Chas. W. Fisk, of this city, whom we reported some time ago as having exhibited trichinae from Cowley pork, has been furthering his microscopi investigations, but fails to find any more of the parasites. We had much rather his serach would be fruitless. It would never do to bring the Cowley hog into disrepute: at present he has a high standing in commercial circles.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Our city fathers have been improving the fine Council Chamger in the Fuller-Torrance block until it presents quite a palatial appearance. The floor has been carpeted, new furniture put in, and things fixed up in general.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Mr. J. F. McMullen left Monday for Topeka to attend a meeting of the Grand Lodge, Select Knights A. O. U. W. He was accompanied by his wife and daughter, Gertie.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Ladies interested in organizing a permanent Literary Society are invited to meet at the home of Mrs. Ordway on Saturday evening, Feb. 23rd, at 7 2 o=clock.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Fred Webber has left the Winfield Roller Mills. His percentage of the profits for the past year is over ten thousand dollarsCnot so bad for one year=s work.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Winfield is to have a rare treat in the appearance of Camilia Urso, the world-famed lady violinist. The date is March 4th.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The jail now contains nine prisoners. There is nothing Ademocratic@ about Sheriff McIntire=s administration.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
The Boot & Shoe firm of Pugsley and Zook has been dissolved. Mr. Zook continues the business.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Dr. C. C. Green has gone to Topeka as a delegate to the Grand Lodge A. O. U. W.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
T. S. Green offers to keep 200 or 300 head of cattle from now till grass, or April 1st, for $1.00 per head.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Apples by the barrel at Bryan and Lynn=s.
Something new in queensware at Bryan & Lynn=s.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
STREAKS OF SUNSHINE. [ADS.]
Chickens! turkeys!! Baden wants them bad.
Large stock of one hole shellers at Lee=s Implement House.
G. B. Shaw & Co. keep in stock Canon City lump and nut coal.
Go to Wallis & Wallis for choice Mince Meat and Apple Butter.
Just received. One car fresh Pure Lime. G. B. Shaw & Co.
The Turnbull Wagon Company is said to be worth two million dollars.
Our car of Grinnell wire is giving universal satisfaction. Men say that=s the best wire I ever saw. W. A. Lee.
For Sale. A carlod of Missouri mules, 13 to 16 hands high, all well broke, at Schofield & Keck=s barn.
I have one fine straw cutter for sale cheap. Parties wanting such a thing call and see it.
W. A. LEE, IMPLEMENTS.
If a man would give me $100 for my Standard Riding cultivator and bind me not to buy another, I would not take it. R. Abbott.
Mares, horses, and mules for sale. Some good brood mares with foal at Bobbitt=s Stable East 9th Avenue. J. Andrews, George Ordway.
Mr. Lee: I bought a lister of you, and my neighbors laughed at me, but I raised 1,500 bushels of corn on 25 acres. Give me a lister to raise corn with. J. W. Mason, Otto, Kansas.
Notice. On and after the 18th day of Feb., all accounts of Pugsley & Zook will be left with R. E. Asp for collection. Prompt attention is necessary to save cost. PUGSLEY & ZOOK.
For sale cheap, or will trade for young stock. A French Norman and Morgan Stallion, four years old last spring. Took the first premium at the county fair when a colt. E. P. HICKOK, Winfield.
Mr. S. H. Seaman will have an auction sale of cattle, horses, household goods, farm implements, etc., at his place, 7 miles southwest of Dexter, on the 27th of February. The sale commences at 10 o=clock.
Colt lost. A black sickling pony horse colt, heavy tail and maine. Lost from my plce 2 mile from south Arkansas River Bridge, Monday, Feb. 11, 1884. Finder will be rewarded by returning to owner. Ed. G. Bass.
At cost for ten days only: $1,000 worth of Ladies= Circular Dolmans, Cloaks & Jerseys to close out for the season the last chance to secure a bargain in the above line of goods. Call and see them, ladies. W. B. Pixley.
Lost. A bay mare, four white feet, white saddle mark on back, leather halter, eight years old. Last seen at Constant, Friday evening, 15th, going south. Liberal reward for her return to undersigned near Santa Fe depot, Winfield. C. H. CLEAVES.
I have for sale three thousand extra merino sheep; also one hundred Texas mares, eight head of work horses, and a numbr of good driving ponies. Will give liberal time for part with good security. Come and see or address me at Belle Plaine, Sumner, Co., Kansas. H. L. FRYE.
Removal. Fitch & Barron, dealers in White, New Home, Domestic, Diamond, and other sewing machines, have removed their office to F. V. Rowland=s Variety Store, two doors north of Wallis & Wallis Grocery Store, where they will be pleased to see those wishing a First-class Sewing Machine for cash or easy terms.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
COMMISSIONER=S PROCEEDINGS.
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, WINFIELD, KANSAS, February 12th, 1884.
BOARD met in regular session agreeable to adjounrment of January 16, 1884. Present: S. C. Smith (Chairman), Amos Walton, Commissioner, County Attorney, and J. S. Hunt, County Clerk.
Among other proceedings the following claims were allowed the Judges and Clerks of the February 5th 1884 election...paid from $2.00 to $6.00.
BEAVER TOWNSHIP.
Judges: D. B. [?] Jones, R. N. Huff, Milton Caldwell.
Clerks: W. P. Gaddie, John F. Miller.
BOLTON EAST TOWNSHIP.
Judges: P. A. Lorry, W. C. Stevens, A. Buzzi.
Clerks: C. J. Wing, Chs. Raup.
BOLTON WEST TOWNSHIP.
Judges: A. J. Kimmel, Wm. Trimble, John Linton.
Clerks: D. P. Marshal, J. A. Scott.
CEDAR EAST TOWNSHIP.
Judges: Jacob Smith, J. H. Rush, Jacob Shipman.
Clerks: Robt. E. Howe, John Bartgis.
CEDAR WEST TOWNSHIP.
Judges D. Beard, Wm. Morgan, D. M. Patten.
Clerks: J. W. Moore, E. G. McGill.
CRESWELL TOWNSHIP.
Judges J. B. Nipp, J. P. Eckles, T. McIntire.
Clerks: Wm. Blakey, B. W. Matlack.
DEXTER TOWNSHIP.
Judges: S. H. Wells, J. V. Hines, R. C. Nicholson.
Clerks, S. A. Smith, Wm. Persing.
FAIRVIEW TOWNSHIP.
Judges: A. J. McCollim, R. B. Corson, W. M. Metcalf.
Clerks: C. F. Cobert, John Barrick.
HARVEY TOWNSHIP.
Judges: Elisha Haynes, Jacob Moser, Wm. Hall.
Clerks: Henry Fromm, P. S. Loy.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
Judges: J. A. Cochran, H. C. Catlin, S. G. Castor.
Clerks: J. E. Groves, C. M. Bold.
MAPLE TOWNSHIP.
Judges: E. J. Cole, S. L. Daughterty, Michael Bush.
Clerks: M. A. Busch, Z. Foster.
NINNESCAH TOWNSHIP.
Judges: A. A. Jackson, G. S. Cole, W. H. White.
Clerks: A. J. Werden, J. C. Drumm.
OMNIA TOWNSHIP.
Judges: J. A. Lee, L. S. Cogswell, Elisha Harned.
Clerks: C. H. Messenger, John S. Phipps.
OTTER NORTH TOWNSHIP.
Judges: A. A. Mills, John Stockdale, D. Harnes.
Clerks: D. Jones, Wm. Kimp.
OTTER SOUTH TOWNSHIP.
Judges: T. H. Aley, L. N. Guthrie, G. W. Hosmer.
Clerks: Daniel Kautz, Elisha Miller.
PLEASANT VALLEY TOWNSHIP.
Judges: L. Holcomb, S. Johnson, S. G. Martin.
Clerks: J. S. Hill, D. W. Holcomb.
RICHLAND NORTH TOWNSHIP.
Judges: David Roberts, T. R. Shannon, A. B. Kennedy.
Clerks: Chas. Baing, H. H. Hooker.
RICHLAND SOUTH TOWNSHIP.
Judges: Daniel Maher, D. C. Stephens, M. W. Irwin.
Clerks: S. J. Holloway, H. H. Robbins.
ROCK TOWNSHIP.
Judges: R. J. Wilber, Reuben Booth, J. M. Harcourt.
Clerks: J. F. Williams, W. R. Grow.
SHERIDAN TOWNSHIP.
Judges: A. J. Crum, G. W. Taylor, Wm. Ovington.
Clerks: Wm. H. Funk, W. B. Hoel.
SILVER CREE TOWNSHIP.
Judges: Harvey Smith, S. S. Moore, J. Chandler.
Clerks: H. N. Hulse, George Walton.
SILVERDALE TOWNSHIP.
Judges: Jonathan Cessna, Wm. Butterfield, D. J. Coburn.
Clerks: P. F. Raines, Monroe Felton.
SPRING CREEK TOWNSHIP.
Judges: T. S. Parvin, R. J. Mead, Samuel Thompson.
Clerks: F. Chaplin, G. F. Gilleland.
TISDALE TOWNSHIP.
Judges: H. McKibben, E. P. Young, C. C. Krow.
Clerks: H. Ellinger, W. R. Bradley.
VERNON TOWNSHIP.
Judges: H. H. Martin, T. B. Ware, T. Thompson.
Clerks, J. M. Householder, F. H. Werden.
WALNUT TOWNSHIP.
Judges: T. A. Blanchard, J. L. King, Thos. Youle.
Clerks: S. Cure, D. Ferguson.
WINDSOR TOWNSHIP.
Judges: S. B. Sherman, J. C. Hendrickson, M. K. Hull.
Clerks: James Kinley, C. J. Phenis.
The following claims of jurors in attendance at the January 1884 term of the Dist. Court of Cowley County, Kansas, were presented and allowed.
REGULAR VENIRE. [SKIPPED AMOUNTS PAID.]
Henry Chitwood, John M. Smiley, R. [?B.?] D. Combs, D. G. Lewis, A. T. Cooper,
J. W. Elkins, Adam Walck, J. A. Sanborn, Andrew Haney, James Utt.
SPECIAL VENIRE.
S. W. Chase, J. L. Houston, William Gaddie, J. W. Millspaugh, Charles Kingsberry,
J. R. Smith, John A. Smalley, Velney Baird, J. M. Stinson, George Bull, J. O. Easterly.
TALESMEN.
J. F. Miller, M. Zimmerman, J. N. Tidd, J. P. Samott, C. E. Metger, H. F. Parris, H. J. Roderick, E. P. Harlan, George Ordway, G. Vanway, S. B. Case, C. H. Kingsberry, F. M. Berger, D. R. Gates, C. H. Woodin, S. S. Lynn, H. H. Johnson, J. Sheffield, J. H. John.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
RECAP: Estate of Ai. L. Butler...Sumner Butler, Guardian of the estate of Ai. L. Butler, Charles M. Butler, and Henry E. Butler, minors...David C. Beach, Attorney. Petition for sale of real estate presented Feb. 15, 1884 to Probate Judge.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
OUR CORRESPONDENTS.
NEW SALEM PENCILINGS.
Mrs. Wolfe is decidedly better.
Mr. Edward Crane has gone to Missouri.
I=ll tell about the weddings in my next.
Little chickens need stockings, I=m thinking.
Mr. Shields has bought a nice, large team of horses.
Mr. Grivers= little boy has recovered from his late illness.
Mrs. Earnest Johnson is entertaining her brother, Mr. Ford.
Mr. McMillen and wife are entertaining friends from Labette: Mr. and Mrs. Hildreth.
The meeting at Salem is largely attended and rev. Gans holds the people spellbound with his eloquence.
Messrs. Edgar and St?? [LAST PART OF WORD AN INK BLOT?] will start west to buy land in a few days. We shall miss them from our circle. May peace and prosperity attend them.
Mr. Hetrick has sold his farm to Mr. Brinnegar of Wisconsin. Mr. Hetrick has purchased property in Burdenville, and so we lose one good neighbor if another is coming to take his place.
Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Hoyland have returned from their Wisconsin and Iowa visit and report an excellent time, but oh! So cold! They say Kansas is the place for them, and tell us we do not know how cold this winter is.
Mr. Christopher and family will go to Topeka in a short time. They are good neighbors and true friends to those they associate with. We shall miss them sadly. Miss May has finished her school at Moscow.
Old Winter has determined to give the Kansas zephyrs a cool reception, and also seems to want us to have a little sympathy for our friends in the north. Well, the warm days will soon come: we have no fears that this cold snap will linger long.
BIRTH. To some of the Salemites there have been increases in stock and family. Mr. Louis Grimes had the honor of welcoming a dainty bit of humanity into his home, and at the same place and the same night his good bovine lacteal provider passed the prescribed boundary of cow-hood, and now wishes the county to know she has three calves of the same age. Hurrah for Salem calves!
Advertisement: Lost, strayed, or stolen: Mr. W. B. Hoyland=s hired man. Started for Winfield on the 11th, only went as far as Salem, and has not been heard from since. His name is Charles Arbuckle. Mr. Hoyland says he does not want people to trust him on his account, and if they hire him not to pay him before he earns his wages or they will be left in the suds, providing he leaves them as he did him. Nothing had been said or done to cause any hard feelings and his sudden disappearance is a mystery. OLIVIA.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
GRAND PRAIRIE ITEMS.
We have three more weeks of school.
And we have preaching every two weeks by Rev. Tyler.
There is some sickness in this neighborhood. Mr. W. F. Smith=s little child is quite sick at present.
There was a birthday party at Mr. Hodgson=s in honor of their daughter, Miss Anna. There were present twenty of our schoolmates, and our teacher, Miss Carslile. We all had a good time. The table was loaded with good things, such as roast turkey, cranberry sauce, tect.
Mr. Editor, this is my first trial at writing for a paper, and if I escape the wastebasket this time, I may come again. I am only 13 years old.
ONE OF THE BOYS.
[An excellent start. Come again. ED.]
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
SUMMIT PENCILINGS.
Mr. Wilson has ceiled his house.
When Mr. Bert Barnum was coming from the party at Mr. Hooker=s, he was running his horse and it ran into a rock quarry and broke its neck.
There was an oyster supper at Richland the other night. We had rather a dull time. Miss Carrie Plunkett took the cake for the prettiest girl.
Mr. Charles Nicholson has been visiting his friend, Mr. Stuber, the past week. Mr. McPherson also has been visiting his brother in this vicinity.
Mr. Barnum has built a new store. That pleases his neighbors who live around him. They will not have to run clear to town with their eggs and butter.
Mr. John Hutchison and family have moved from Illinois to this county. He has rented Mr. Baker=s plce, and the latter is going to Arkansas City to work at the carpenter=s trade.
We have had some very cold weather this week. Spring will soon be here and farming will start once more. The farmer is the happiest man that lives. He tills the ground, and goes to church on Sunday, and sees more pleasure than anybody.
Mr. Carson sold 43 hogs the other day at 6 cents, so you see when you have a fat hog or steer, you can get a good price for it any time. But I can=t tell how long that will last. It won=t last very long for those who have big herds, for the range in this country is getting scarce, and the time is coming when men will have to tie their stock up by the head or not have any, unless they have plenty of land of their own to herd them on. It is getting so now that when you herd on a quarter section, you have to pay one-third of what you make for rent; and I don=t see where a man makes anything at such licks. But if he raises hogs, he can keep them up in a den and raise corn to feed them on, if the land is not too poor. WILLIAM FLINT.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
PRAIRIE HOME PRODUCTIONS.
Mrs. H. C. Miller is on the sick list.
Miss May Christopher closed her school at Moscow on the 2nd instant. [They had Cristopher???]
An oyster supper at Mr. Brookings on the 16th is on the program.
Mr. Samuel Miller has rented Mrs. Todd=s farm, three miles east of Winfield.
Mr. Brinnegar of Darlington, Wisconsin, has purchased the Hetrick farm and will soon take possession.
The meetings at New Salem, held by the Christian brethren, are said to be very interesting, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather.
Mrs. Laffoon=s sister, who has been visiting her, has recently returned home. I would like to know what she thought of Southern Kansas.
Several Prairie Home farmers have been busily engaged shelling corn and shipping to Chicago, where they have realized thirty three cents per bushel.
Mr. Lowe, successor to M. Christopher, has gone to Ohio for his family and expects to be settled on his new place early in March. He intends to take up his residence in Topeka the present season.
The shawl that was picked up on Main Street two weeks ago, and advertised in the Telegram has found its way to the owner, who kindly requests me to return thanks to the little boy for his trouble, also a due appreciation of his integrity and uprightness of character.
A series of meetings at Prairie Home is being talked of, to be held by Rev. Hopkins, a Baptist minister. We cannot think just now of any place where church services are more needed, or where souls are of more value, so let the good work begin at once.
A
Jasper@ desired an expression from the COURIER correspondents in regard to holding a meeting for the purpose of getting acquainted with each other, and eventually organize a brotherhood or something of the kind. Not many seem disposed to speak on the subject. Silence, it is said, implies consent, so I will arise and express my opinion, as I do not favor the proposition. Too much publicity, with many of us would spoil all, besides, there are other organizations that would prove more beneficial, so far as I can see.Why don=t some of the Salem ladies organize a Temperance Union at that place? Unfurl the banner to the breeze. Let it wave high over the heads of the Salem subjects of King Whiskey! What a blessing to the world were it against the law to manufacture one drop of the vile poison for any purpose whatever. May God hasten the time when the tyranical monster shall be bound in chains bondage for all time to come. Till then, let us work and
HOPE.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Report of Winfield Public Schools for the Month Ending Feb. 15, 1884.
HAD TO SKIP STATISTICAL DATA...TOO HARD TO READ!
One bad feature in the above report is the great number of cases of tardiness. In one department there were six pupils each of which was tardy 15 times during the month, and each brought written excuses from parents for these delinquencies. Will the parents assist in overcoming this, by urging their children to be prompt in their attendance.
A. GRIDLEY, Jr., Supt.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
THE ATCHISON ROAD TO ITS PATRONS.
The A., T. & S. F. Railroad Company=s Statement of the Commissioners= Rate Question.
To the Patrons of the Atchison System of Railroads in the State of Kansas:
It seems to be desirable, and indeed necessary, that a statement should be made to you in connection with the railroad law passed by the last legislators, and in connection with the series of acts performed by the old Board of Railroad Commissioners, appointed by the Executive Council of the State under the operation of that law.
The interests of the whole community living upon the line of our road are our interests, and to a great extent, the interests and prosperity of our railroad are your interests, and this is true, whether the people whom we address are engaged in manufacturing interests or commercial interests, or in that interest which forms the bone and sinew of our state, the agricultural interest. It is to the conjoint efforts chiefly, first, of the tillers on the soil, of the manufacturers, the commercial men, and also to the railroad interests, that the present prosperity of the whole region through which our road runs, is indebted. The people who own the Atchison road look back with pride on the events of the last ten years. It is a satisfaction to them to remember that during good times and hard times they have year by year endeavored to pursue a system of fair and evening of liberal treatment towards their patrons evberywhere on the line, which has tended in a large measure to bring prosperity to the people. It is a matter of pride and satisfaction to the owners of the road to look back upon the past ten years and note the remarkable success which has arisen to the road by reason of the enterrprise which has been shown by reaching out into the distant countries beyond Kansas and thus grasping the traffic of the Pacific coast, Old Mexico, and Territories lying between.
An examination of the facts and figures which to some extent have already been given, and which will hereafter be more fully and thoroughly given to the people of our line, will prove conclusively to them, that the reason for the prosperity of the Atchison road has not been from unreasonable or extortionate rates which have been collected for the transportation of Kansas traffic, as has unjustly been charged, but it has been to a high extent, from the vast traffic that it has obtained in other States and Territories west of Kansas and brought across the State, besides opening a western market for Kansas products.
The facts and figures will show that this foreign traffic that has been brought across the State, has so increased the business of the road as to enable it to make a system of rates for Kansas traffic that compares favorably with the rates charged for the same kind of traffic in Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, and a portion of even Illinois.
It is true that the rates charged for transporting Kansas freight by the Atchison road are not so low as the rates of charges on through traffic between Chicago and Kansas City, St. Louis and Kansas City, Chicago and New York, etc. Is it reasonable to expect this? The local freight of Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and other States is not carried at as low rates as the through rates between these great cities, although the great lines in these States have twice and three times as large a traffic as ours. Make a fair comparison for yourselves of the rates of charges being made in the States I have named for moving the busines arising in those States and going to and from those States with the same kind of traffic in Kansas, and you will be satisfied that our rates are, proportionately to the business we do, lower than theirs.
People who see the excellent class of improvements that are being made on the line of the Atchison road, and who see how the road has grown from a line of the second class to a road that will rank with the best in substantial construction and equipment, fail to realize the fact that the money which accomplishes these results arises only in part from the railroad earnings from Kansas business, or in the State of Kansas. The railroad company has made Kansas its chief place of operation. The larger part of the fruit of its labors and investments, it has up to this time spent in the State of Kansas. It has up to this time operated its extensive system of lines in Seven states and Territories, from the State of Kansas. And thee has grown up the erroneous idea that the property was entirely a Kansas property.
The Railroad law, the Commissioners= decisions, and the discussions which have been necessary in order to enlighten people as to the facts, have been unfortunate for Kansas, for the attention of the other States and Territories must necessarily be drawn to the fact of the manner and extent to which Kansas has been helped in past years above all others.
The people who live on our line and see the large freight traffic being drawn by our road on its main line, and who see in the papers the published statement of our earnings, which have been good earnings in the last three or four years, reach the conclusion that this business and these earnings are coming chiefly and entirely out of Kansas. Now these are the facts:
The accounts and figures for the year 1883 are not yet made up. The freight earnings of 1883 were nearly $200,000 less than in 1882, so I give you the facts for 1882 as made up by the General Auditor as closely as he can figure them, it being difficult to get the figures right to the last dollar, as the road is operated as a whole in all the States and Territories.
In 1882 the total freight earnings of the Atchison system of roads in Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Missouri, and Texas, consisting of 1,820 miles, was $10,537,201.57. Of this sum the money earned on tht portion of the road in Kansas and a few miles in Missouri, consisting of 91,210 miles, was $6,319,788.21. This was the entire freight money earned on our business transported in Kansas, or between two Kansas points to and from points in other States. This sum was earned as follows:
On business between two points, both being in Kansas: $1,825,192.20
On business to or from Kansas points and going to or from points in the States east of Kansas: $1,817,686.10.
On business to or from Kansas points and going to or from points in States and Territories west of Kansas: $519,208.50.
On business to or from one foreign State or Territory going to or from another State or Territory, and hence only going across Kansas: $2,657,910.00
TOTAL FOR ABOVE FOUR: $6,319,789.01.
You will see that about forty-two percent of the entire freight traffic consists of business simply crossing Kansas, going from ocean to ocean, or from one foreigh State to another.
At great expense, and with much labor, we obtain this business, against the competition of lines that are trying to carry it north or south of us. Suppose the old board had reduced the rates on the haul in Kansas on this traffic, they would simply be injuring the Atchison road, in order to benefit people living in New York or California, or perhaps in Australia. Or if the through rate was not reduced by the reduction made in Kansas, then the Atchison road would simply get a less proportion, and its other connecting roads would get more. How much good would this do Kansas? Is it wise to throw bars and difficulties in the way of this traffic? By bringing it across Kansas, it requires a large expenditure of money here in the State to transport it and enable the road to do the rest of its business more cheaply.
Fortunately for all interests the people, as well as the railroads in the United States, the Supreme Court has decided that this inter-state and inter-oceanic business whould not be interefered with by State regulation.
When, therefore, the old board of railroad commissioners blindly struck at the six millions of dollars being earned in Kansas for freight transportation, you can see for yourselves how unlawfully, how unwisely, they acted.
We give you these figures fully and fairly, in order that you may reach your own conclusions. You will see that in opposing the arbitrary demands of the old Board of Railroad Commissioners, it has not been altogether from fear of a serious reduction of our revenues.
The decisions which have been made by the old Board, the incorrect statements which they had written, are all matters of record. Bear in mind that this Board was elected to act as a fair minded tribunal with semi-judicial powers. It was hoped and expected that they would serve as a board of arbitration in all cases of difference that might arise between the people and the railroads. It was hoped that their duties would be so performed as to build up a stronger bond of interst and amity between the people and the railroads. I call your earnest attention to their decision and their letters. I particularly call your attention to their letter of February 8thCa letter which for unfairness, injustice, incorrect statements, and perversions of truth, has seldom before been equalled.
A letter which was capable of, and was apparently written for the purpose of leading you astray, and arousing some of the worst passions that lie within the human breast.
I ask you candidly and fairly to read this whole correspondence, copies of which will be supplied on application to Mr. N. L. Gage, of Topeka, and judge for yourselves where the truth liesCjudge for yourselves who in the past have wronged you the mostCthe railroads, who like all others, err frequently in their business dealings, or the class of men who systematically and for years have misrepresented, and deceived you in order to obtain personal advantage.
NOTE: ARTICLE GOES ON AND ON AND ON...SKIPPED THE REST OF IT!
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEE.
The Republican congressional committee for the third district of Kansas will meet at Cherryvale on Thursday, March 13th, 1 1 o=clock p.m., to organize, call a convention, and transact other business. The committee will be composed of the members of the committee of the old second and third districts from the counties now composing the third district and new members to fill vacancies and are as follows so far as now ascertained.
Chautauqua Co.: W. H. Gibson, Sedan.
Cherokee Co.: W. B. Stone, Galena.
Cowley Co.: D. A. Millington, Winfield.
Crawford Co.: A. J. Georgia, Pittsburg.
Elk Co.: Asa Thompson, Howard.
Labette Co.: L. S. Crum, Oswego.
Montgomery Co.: E. E. Wilson, Independence.
Neosho Co.: T. B. Limbocker, South Mound.
Wilson Co.:
Chairrmen of the several county committees are invited to meet with the congressional committee for advice and assistance.
D. A. MILLINGTON, Secretary of the committee of the third congressional district.
Republican papers in the third district please copy.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
MISLED.
Our correspondent Y. W. C. is misled in the supposition that Phinnie Marsh was fined for selling whiskey to little boys. The sale was alcohol to full grown men, and as near as we can learn he was rather the victim of misplaced confidence and youthful indiscretion than of vicious violation of law.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
DELEGATE TO CHICAGO.
As Cowley County was included in the new third congressional district for the purpose of evening up the district and will be depended upon for a rousing Republican majority as will make the district decidedly Republican, which of course Cowley will proceed to do. Therefore, she is entitled to some consideration in the matter of delegates to Chicago and one of the delegates should be from Cowley. So we would like to mention Senator W. P. Hackney as the man who will carry out the views of his constituents as fully and do it as ably for the district as any other man. We nominate Bill Hackney.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
MORE NARROW GAUGE.
We publish this week a stipulation signed by the president and secretary of the Denver, Memphis and Atlantic Narrow Gauge railway company and filed with the county clerk. We place it before our readers not because we think it amounts to anything but as a matter of news.
It does not appear that the railway company have in any way authorized their president and secretary to make such a contract or stipulation and it strikes us that it would require the approval of the board of directors at least to make it binding.
It is not a part of the proposition which was signed by two fifths of the resident taxpayers of the county authorizing the commissioners to call an election and had the commissioners called the election on this stipulation, we think it would be void. But they did not and all the questions the people can vote upon are continued in the all heretofore published. In our opinion no subsequent stipulation can be given any binding effect.
It lacks essential elements of a binding contract in not having two parties and a consideration. It is not a binding contract because there is but one party to it, and because there is no consideration. The county is not represented in any way as a party to the stipulation, the county commissioners have not acted upon it or approved it in any way, and there is no consideration expressed therein for the contract to make it binding on the company. Of course, the object of the stipulation is to induce the voters of Cowley County to vote for the bonds. Of course, it would not have been filed or written were it not evident that the bonds were going to be defeated, and is filed in hopes that it will change enough votes from against to for, to carry the bonds.
But it can never be known whether it had that effect or not should the bonds be carrtied. If carried, no one can prove thhat they would not have carried without the stipulation. Therefore, the stipulation should have stated that, whereas the proposition as submitted will be defeated at the polls, the company file this stipulation to induce men to vote for the proposition, and make the stipulation in consideration of the votes that will be polled for the proposition. We do not think the stipulation of any use.
MILLINGTON GOES ON AND ON AND ON...PRINTS THE SILLY STIPULATION THAT WAS SIGNED BY MILLER MERCER, PRESIDENT, AND M. L. READ, SECRETARY, AND FILED BY J. S. HUNT, COUNTY CLERK, FEB. 25, 1884.
I SKIPPED ALL OF THIS!
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
CAN IT BE IGNORANCE?
A
Mr. Millington opposed the K. C. L. & S. prroposition at first.@ Telegram.A
We can hardly doubt but that a proposition so remarkable in its liberality and in the profound safety of its provisions will be carried almost unanimously.@ COURIER, March 6th, 1879, on the K. C. L. & S. K. Proposition.Mr. Black=s articles of late respecting the actions of the editor of this paper past and present, exhibit either an unusual degree of ignorance or a vast resource of falsehood and misrepresentation. COURIER.
Mr. Black has no intention of exhibiting ignorance, falsehood, or misrepresentation in regard to Mr. Millington. Nothing in the above article disputes the assertion of the Telegram. If Mr. Millington will state that he did not have anything to do with sending a committee to St. Louis to consult the Garrisons in regard to a counter proposition, we will retract and apologize. Telegram.
Mr. Millington did have much Ato do with sending a committee to St. Louis to consult the Garrisons in regard to@ extending the Missouri Pacific railroad to Winfield and through this county; much to do with inducing the Garrisons to visit Winfield, which they did a few weeks earlier than the L. L. & G. folks appeared on the ground, much to to do in trying every means he had to induce them to extend their road, but failed. Messrs. Garrison returned to St. Louis without giving us any definite encouragement.
Some weeks later, March 2, 1879, the L. L. & G. company sent over unheralded, Gen. Blair, and some others, to see what encouragement this county could give them towards building the east and west road through the county. Gen. Blair was an old friends of ours and we were one of the first to be called on. We stayed with him all day and until the proposition as submitted later was formulated and agreed upon and while seconding the scheme of the railroad men, we tried to get the best terms possible for the county. We then wrote the article from which the above quotation ws clipped.
The proposition was submitted to the people and we supported it from the first by all the fair and honest means we were master of. We had nothing to do with getting up Aa counter proposition@ and don=t believe anyone else had. The bonds were voted as we wished and worked for, and we have never regretted it nor felt that we could have done better with that company. But while the building of that road at an expense of only $68,000 in bonds in the county and nearly two thirds of that returned to the county in the sale of the railrod stock taken from these bonds, yet if we had succeeded in getting the Missouri Pacific instead on like terms, we would likely have done still better in that the Missouri Pacific sold out to Gould instead of the Santa Fe and we would most likely now have competing roads.
No, Mr. Black, you cannot discount us on our record favoring railroads for this county. If you want to weaken our influence against the pending narrow gauge proposition, thhe less you say about our railroad record the better for your scheme. If you have a better road record, please trot it out, for we never knew you had any until you commenced supporting this narrow gauge proposition. Trot it out for you may help your cause more with it than by ventilating ours.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
SUSPENSION OF THE ORDER.
Many of our people were last Saturday much surprised by the news that the railroad commissioners had issued an order suspending their order fixing Feb. 19th as the time for their decision on freight rates of the Santa Fe road should take effect, to March 5th, when a rehearing would be granted; and questioned the effect it would have. The following showing the position of the company concerning it puts that corporation in a favorable light.
A
On the evening of the 22nd day of February, the honorable Board of Railroad Commissioners issued an order to this company suspending the rates which they had ordered into effect upon the morning of the 19th of February. The honorable Board of Railrod Commissioners has also advised us that on the 5th of March they will proceeds to readjudicate a new system of rates for this line. The system of rates thus quickly suspended by the honorable Board of Railroad Commissioners representing the result reached by them after one years consideration of the freight question, and after the decisions and rehearing, we are advised by counsel that the order of February 22nd, suspending the rates of February 19th may not be legally operative. However, this may be the freighting public will see that it is impossible for this company between this time and the 5th of March to formulate a new tariff to take the place of that suspended by the Commissioners, nor would it be useful to do so, for owing to the varied and conflicting decisions of the honorable Board of Railway Commissioners, it is impossible for the company to tell what may be the new decisions reached upon this whole subject. There isbut one course in law for the company to pursue, namely: to continue in effect the system of rates ordered by the old Board of Railrod Commissioners on the 19th of February. This company desires to assure the people living on its lines that as soon as their questions have been legally determined, or as soon as the rate making power shall have been again entrusted to the traffic department of this road, we shall use every reasonable measure in our power to give satisfaction to our patrons.@(Signed) J. F. GODDARD, Traffic Managter.
Approved: A. R. Touzalin, Vice President.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
TOO SWINISH.
The city of Topeka and some other cities toward the eastern end of the Santa Fe railroad dystem have long enjoyed freight rates over that road which discriminated largely in their favor and against the towns farther west. For instance Topeka and Lawrence millers could send a carload of flour to Colorado or New Mexico for precisely the same money that it would cost the miller of Great Bend or other town in Kansas farther west. This discrimination has been carried out in various other ways, all favoring Topeka and other towns in the eastern part of the state.
Now the rates fixed by the commissioners as maximum rates do not continue this discrimination necessarily, but give the eastern towns only the advantage of lower rates for long hauls than for shorter hauls, which is all the discrimination they in justice are entitled to. These maximum rates while they reduce the rates to and from the western towns some twenty percen, do not in some cases reduce rates at all to and from eastern towns and it is claimed that the maximum rates are higher in some things than the rates hitherto paid. It does not compel the company to advance rates on these things in any case, more than the law did without the commissioners rulings, but it decreases the amount of the discriminations unless the railroad company reduces the rates to and from these eastern cities as far below the maximum rates as these discriminating rates have been below the general rates. This the company has the same right to do that it had to discriminate before the decision of the commissioner was rendered. But the company are not likely to reduce these discriminating rates and therefore, under the decision, the discrimination in favor of these eastern towns would not likely be so great as it has been. Therefore, the Topeka board of trade kicks.
It is not because they apprehend an increase of rates, for of course they do not, but because a part of the advantage they have enjoyed over western towns is to be taken away. They don=t want lower rates, they only want discrimination. They don=t want the rates to and from western towns reduced for that reduces the discrimination. They really want rates to western and central towns increased for that will increase the discrimination. They want to tax the whole state to put money into their private pockets. We have no patience with such swinish propensities.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
THE SANTA FE.
We give our readers today the address of Mr. Touzalin, the manager of the A. T. & S. F. railroad and its auxiliary lines, to the patrons of that railroad system. We publish it in a spirit of fairness to Mr. Touzalin and the company he represents. Having already given the letter of the commisiones explaining the position they have taken, it is but fair that the representatives of the road be heard. Mr. Touzalin=s address is a very strong and able document and contains many facts and figures of interest to our readers.
While we have always tried to work for the best interests of this county, tried to obtain for our people the lowest rates of freights and fares within reason, have tried to get competing lines of railroads built into our county with a view of reducing rates by competition, and done many things that would tend to reduce the profits of the Santa Fe road and enhance the profits of our people, we have always been an appreciative friend of the great Kansas railroad, the santa Fe System.
It has been of more value to the state of Kansas than all the other railroads of the state put together, and the prosperity of the state is due in a great measure to that railroad company. It has almost made Kansas what it is. It has always had the most gentlemanly, accommodating, and obliging officers, done its business promptly and pleasantly, and its rates of freights and fares have been favorable as compared with other roads. The benefits that this road has given our people cannot be estimated and it is due to that corporation that all these benefits be acknowledged and appreciated. It is due that their side of this and every other controversy in relation to their rates and management should be respectfully heard and considered. We all have a deep interest in the prosperity and efficiency of this system and should do nothing to impair its usefulness, and should be entirely willing to pay rates sufficient to give it a liberal remuneration for its services.
Yet while we foster the kindliest feelings for that corporation, we may remember that it is a corporation for profit and not unlike other corporations, it will make all the profits it can, consistently with its reputation and future prospects. We may remember that it owes to the people its chance and opportunity to make these profits. We once remember that the people have laid the foundation for this prosperity, have paid these profits to the company, and made it the great corporation it is, and that the people have the right to reasonable rates without discrimination and the right to control these rates within the limit of reason. We think the position the commissioners have taken is reasonable and the rates they hve indicated would afford this road all the profits that are reasonable.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Ladies= Library Association.
The next regular monthly meeting of the Ladies= Library Association will be held on Tuesday, March 4th, at 3 p.m. At the last semi-annual meeting the following named ladies were elected as officers and directors for the ensuing year.
For president, Mrs. C. S. VanDoren; vice president, Mrs. T. B. Myers; secretary, Mrs. N. J. Lunday; treasurer, Mrs. C. B. Millington; librarian, Mrs. W. L. Mullin.
For directors: Mrs. W. H. Shearer, Mrs. M. J. Wood, Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mrs. A. T. Spotswood, Mrs. G. W. Miller, Mrs. W. R. Kirkwood, Mrs. A. E. Dawson, and Mrs. F. W. Finch. Secretary.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
John Stalter bargained 1,900 head of sheep this week to an agent of a Kansas City house, receiving $500 down to hold the bargain. He delivered the sheep at the Douglass stockyards on Tuesday as per contract, and an extra train came down the road to transport them to the market. But when the buyer saw the sheep weighed, he found that he was badly worsted in the bargain and flew the contract, letting Mr. Stalter have the $500 and the sheep too and left the country. We understand the price at which the sheep were contracted was $4.50 per head. We presume the railroad company will be looking after somebody to pay them for running that extra down here for no purpose. Douglass Tribune.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
New Salem Pencilings.
Health in Salem remarkably good.
Mr. Sutton has bought a farm and will move ere long.
This pleasant evening finds me ready for a little chat.
Christian services still continue, and the interest increases.
Mr. Griever will move on the Jacob Coe farm in a few days.
Tirzah Hoyland has gone to Cambridge to spend a few days with firends.
The merry hunters did not succeed in catching the wolf they were in pursuit of.
Girls in good demand, it seems, for two of our fair damsels have changed their names this week.
MARRIED. Oh! On Wednesday evening Miss Anna Buck concluded to AGoforth@ and try a life of double felicity with Mr. John Goforth. May they find happiness, prosperity, and joys in abundance.
MARRIED. On Wednesday evening, February 27th, 1884, at the residence of Mr. James Chapell, Mr. Smith of Burdenville united Miss Mollie Chapell and Mr. Garret Fitzgerald in the holy bonds of matrimony. A few intimate friends were invited; also the near relatives of the bride were present. Among the few was your friend, Olivia. The bride was charming in a beautiful brown silk dress, handsomely trimmed in a new style of white trimming, a lovely Spanish scarft, gold jewelry, and a pretty ornament on her fair hair completed the costume. From some of the friends little tokens of love were thankfully received.
Her mother presented a beautiful cake stand, sugar bowl, spoon holder, creamer, butter dish, and a very nice glass fruit dish.
From Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Chapell, two individual salt cellars, silver lined, beautiful design.
Mr. and Mrs. Watsonberger, crystal water pitcher and sauce dishes.
Mr. and Mrs. Griever, set of heavy goblets
Cut and saucer to bride from _____oh!! I forgot.
Pretty collar, handmade, by Tirzah Hoyland.
The ceremony was in the parlor, and after congratulations all repaired to the table so bountfifully spread with the good things of this life. I=ll not try to tell the names of all the goodies, for I should fail. Everything was excellent that I sampled, and the tble looked very tempting and received a due share of attention. Each guest was furnished paper to do up a parcel of the many fine cakes, to dream over, but my sleep was too sound to think of any hero, and as none came in dreamland to trouble me with unfaithful vows, I shall not expecxt them in reality. How did you and your fair companion dream, Mr. AAlgero?@ At quite an early hour, the guests repaired to their homes, wishing Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald all the happiness that ever comes to mortals here below. May they live long and happily and get a home in the years to come that will never fade away, across the ocean of Time.
Mr. Earnest Johnson lost a fine mule a few days ago, a victim of heart disease, they say. Mr. Johnson also had the misfortune to have his hand badly peeled in the corn sheller. Misfortunes never come singly.
OLIVIA.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
AD. AHACKMETACK,@ a lasting and fragrant perfume. Price 25 and 50 cents. For sale by Brown & Son.
AD. SHILOR=S CURE WILL immediately relieve Croup, Whooping Cough, and Bronchitis. Fro sale by Brown & Son.
AD. FOR DYSPEPSIA and Liver complaint, you have a printed guarantee on every bottle of Shiloh=s Vitalizer. It never fails to cure. For sale by Brown & Son.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
RECAP: Administrator, George H. Williams, of the estate of Peter Larson, deceased, Henry E. Asp, Attorney, notified creditors of final settlement of estate April 7, 1884.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Notice of Final Settlement.
CREDITORS and all others interested in the estate of John S. Harley, deceased, late of Cowley County, are hereby notified that on the 7th day of April, 1884, it being the first day of the April term of the Probate Court of Cowley County, I shall make final settlement of said estate, and also request the Court to make an order to allow for fees and expenses.
REUBEN BOOTH, Administrator.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
THE MARKETS.
The markets are steady with wheat 87 cents, corn 32 cents, hogs $6.40 per cwt., and hay $5.00 per ton, chickens, alive 6 cents, dressed 8 cents, turkeys alive 9 cents, dressed 11 cents, potatoes 75 cents, butter 20 cents, and eggs 15. The reader will observe by reference to our telegraphic report that wheat brings 2 2 cents more in Winfield than in Kansas City. Our millers paid $1.00 for some last Saturday, 6 cents higher than the prices then in Kansas City. Corn continued at 34 cents till Wednesday when it dropped to 32. A large amount of corn has been brought in this week, and the receipts of wheat have been heavier than for several weeks.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
PERSONALS.
A. A. Knox, of Beaver Township, will erect soon a new frame house.
County Superintendent Limerick now has an office clerk, in the person of Miss Cora Sloan.
DIED. Mrs. I. H. Bonsall, one of the oldest residents of Arkansas City, died at that place on Sunday last.
Mr. Lewis Brown has been ill and confined to his bed during the past week, but is now improving.
Mrs. E. E. Crawford, of Coffeyville, Kansas, has been visiting for some time with her sister, Mrs. J. M. Stafford, of this city.
Winfield Post G. A. R. desires us to extend their sincere thanks to all who assisted them in presenting their drama last week.
The registration books close Friday night, so that those who desire to vote on the railroad proposition must register before that time.
Mr. A. B. Lemmon came down from Newton Monday morning, sold his farm three and a half miles east of town, and returned on the afternoon train.
MARRIED. Mr. S. C. Cunningham, of Ninnescah Township, and Mrs. Julia Maurer, of Rock, were married on the 12th. The bride is the sister of John Stalter of Rock.
A AMissionary Tea@ will be given at the residence of Miss Lizzie Graham, Friday, at 6 o=clock p.m. All friends of the cause of missions are invited to be present.
Mr. M. J. O=Meara returned Saturday from a purchasing tower in the eastern markets. He laid in a large stock of boots and shoes, which are now arriving.
Messrs. Pugsley & Zook have divided their stock of boots and shoes. Mr. Pugsley takes his to Mound City, while Mr. Zook will continue the business at the old stand.
The county jail is receiving a thorough renovation. The cells are being replastered and repainted, and when finished will afford our jail birds much more cheerful quarters.
Mr. A. Burgaur has been in New York and Philadelphia during the past month purchasing goods for the Bee Hive Store. Their stock this spring will be larger than ever.
Messrs. Jennings & Crippen sold seventeen thousand bushels of their wheat to Landis & Beals, millers of Arkansas City, last week. They got very close to a dollar per bushel for it.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. Thos. Parker informs us that Ira Moore, whom many of our old citizens will remember as being the second proprietor of the Tunnel Mills, died in the Black Hills a few weeks ago.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
This Thursday evening Prof. C. Farringer gives another of his interesting musical soirees. He will introduce in this concert none but his advanced pupils and will render the finest music.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
DIED. Mrs. Alec Frazier, of Walnut Township, died last Tuesday morning. She was a daughter of Mrs. Solomon Ferguson, a notice of whose death appeared in these columns but a few weeks ago.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. C. D. Thurman, of the Villisca (Iowa) Review, was looking over Cowley last week with a view of locating. Prospectors are becoming numerous and most of them are concluding to settle.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mrs. Waite, who has been visiting her daughter, Mrs. S. D. Pryor, and other relatives and friends in this city for a few months past, left yesterday for her home at Watterstown, New York.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
DIED. Through Mr. A. B. Arment, undertaker, we learn of the death of Mr. John Poor, a son of Joseph C. and Virginia Poor, of Beaver Township, aged 19, which occurred Sunday evening, of pneumonia.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. Ed. E. Farringer, with commendable energy to put the juvenile band on a firm footing, has arranged to have the Camilla Urso concert troupe here for their benefit on Tuesday, March 4th. It is one of the best troupes traveling and will receive a large house.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Elliott Barnes= new drama, AOnly a Farmer=s Daughter,@ now being presented at the Chestnut Street Theatre, is, in conception and artistic development, one of the best plays we have seen in a long tie. Correspondent, New York Mirror.
Opera House, Winfield, March 3rd.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. D. L. Kretsinger has been appointed superintendent of the water company with entire charge of its business and property. He will take hold of the matter actively at once. Mr. Kretsinger is one of our most energetic citizens and will handle the liquid supply of the city in first class shape. The position entails a good deal of responsibility and work on his shoulders, but he is fully equal to the emergency.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
To Our Subscribers.
We have made arrangements with the publishers of the American Farmer, a handsome and excellent sixteen page monthly magazine, published at Ft. Wayne, Indiana, whereby we can furnish it and the COURIER to subscribers paying one year in advance, both papers for $1.75. The regular price of the American Farmer is $1.00 per year. This is an unusual offer and will only remain open until April 1st. The American Farmer is one of the best and brightest papes devoted to agriculture in the west.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The Wilberforce University Singers entertained, on Monday evening, at the Opera House, a very large and refined audience. The company is composed of eight colored ladies and gentleman and their music is as good as any ever presented in Winfield. The recitations of Miss Hallie Q. Brown are certainly inferior to no elocutionist, in character and rendition. She was several times encored. The company is traveling in the interest of Wilberforce University, of Xenia, Ohio, an institution owned and conducted entirely by colored people. This is the second time they have visited us, and their return would again be greeted with a rousing house. They are wonderful examples of what education can do for the colored race. The company visited us under the auspices of the Winfield Presbyterian Church.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
MARRIED. Mr. E. F. Blair and Mrs. Ella G. Shenneman, of this city, were married Sunday, by Rev. William Brittain, Rector of Grace Church. Both the bride and groom are olds residents of Winfield and their excellent qualities are too well known to need any comment from us. Mr. and Mrs. Blair went to housekeeping immediately, with the congratulations of many friends. E. F. was at one time a newspaper man himself and knows what they like. He has our thanks for fine cigars, and our best wishes for the future happiness of himself and bride.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Eli Youngheim, Winfield=s mammoth clothier, is arranging to start in about two weeks for a three months= visit around his childhood haunts in Germany. Eli has confined himself very closely to business during the last eight years, and but few young men have made the rapid advancement in trade circles that he has. He can allow himself the vacation with good grace. His pleasant young salesman, Joe Finkleburg, will have charge of the store during Eli=s absence.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
J. L. M. Hill has bought a half interest in the Brettun House equipments and business and will go in Saturday. Some years ago Jim was Winfield=s most popular feeder of the hungry, whee the English Kitchen now is. He soon made a fortune and went into the furniture business and other pursuits. He once more assumes the title of Alandlord,@ and under the management of Harter & Hill the Brettun will undoubtedly continue to increase in popularity and prosperity.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. M. A. Smalley, of Carey, Ohio, an old friend and school teacher of James McLain, was in the city Tuesday. Mr. Smalley passed through Winfield fourteen years ago on a buffalo hunt, when only one or two houses were here. The only thing he now recognized was the old ford near the Tunnel mill, which he remembered as the place where one of the hunting party of 1870 was drowned. Buffalo were not far from this point in those days.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Miss Therrie J. Taylor, the youngest daughter of Dr. Taylor of this city, is expected to arrive in town this week from the city of Baltimore, Maryland. We understand that she comes to southern Kansas for two purposes: to put herself under the professional care of her father, who differs with her physician in Baltimore; and when she recovers her health, intends to devote herself to the teaching of instrumental music.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
J. F. McMullen, C. C. Green, and G. S. Manser represented the Winfield Lodge
A. O. U. W. at the Grand Lodge in Topeka last week. Mr. McMullen was placed on two of the most important committees. This order is furnishing the cheapest insurance to be obtained, the assessments for the last year being only four and a half dollars on the thousand. The Winfield lodge contains eighty members.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Several street gamblers have recently made their appearance in Winfield with schemes that border closely on robbery. We are glad to note that Marshal Herrod made one of these pick up his traps last Saturday and depart for other pastures. The city government certainly should progect those who haven=s sense enough to let these professional swindles alone. No city should license a traveling robber.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
In order to secure Camilla Urso, the great lady violinist, one hundred and fifty tickets were subscribed for with the understanding that subscriberes may have the first choice. The chart for reserved seats will be opened up to noon today (Thursday) at Goldsmith=s, for subscribrs only. After that time the sale is open to all.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. John Reed has made arrangements to have the AFarmer=s Daughter@ Comedy Troupe here on March 3rd. They come on the shares, and should our people give them a good house, Mr. Reed will secure for us in the future some of the best complanies that travel, one of which is the troupe above mentioned.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
An ice gorge formed a few days ago on the Maumee River at Defiance, Ohio, and put one million feet of the Turnbull Wagon Co.=s fine seasoned hickory and white oak lumber in danger of washing away, but it did not and the celebrated Turnbull wagons will continue to make happy men who purchase them.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
A young man claiming to be from Chautauqua County was sailing around with a Asoiled dove@ Monday evening, and was taken in by Marshal Herrod. He offered resistance with a large sized dirk, but his hands went up in the face of the Marshal=s little gun. Seventeen and a half was the cost.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. A. Herpich, the merchant tailor, has received a large and elegant stock of spring suitings, all the latest designs. He extends an invitation to the general public to call and exzmine his goods. No person can fail to make a selection on seeing this stock. All work guaranteed.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. Bard has retired from the real estate firm of Bard & Harris, leaving the business in the hands of Mr. Harris.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Moving Comment.
The writer had the pleasure on last Saturday afternoon of accompanying a bright party of Winfield people to Cambridge. The day was clear and calm and many things were observed along the way which are worthy of note. We had been feeling very good over the rapid improvement of the queen city of the valley, Winfield, but a drive over this beautiful country revealed forcibly the vast strides being made in other parts of Cowley in the way of permanent improvement. Almost every farm shows new buildings, of one kind and another, a corral full of cattle and hogs and a general air of thrift. Some of Cowley=s best land and many of her wealthiest farmers are between Winfield and Cambridge. New Salem, the first town we strike, has the appearance of having come out of winter quarters in good spirits. Several new houses were noticed and the number of cars standing on the side track at the depot would denote quite a shipping trade. The little city over on the hill, Burden, has done itself proud during the past few months. On approaching the town we counted forty nine houses newly built or in course of erection. The place presented a business like appearance, the merchants were busy, and the streets were crowded with teams. We called around to see Brother Henthorn, but found nobody but the post office in. The Enterprise has several times accused the COURIER of being inimical to the interests of Burden, which it knew was a mistake, and we wanted to see its good looking and efficient young editor, J. W. Henthorn, and inform him of our intention to give the Enterprise and Burden a puff. The COURIER has always claimed that Burden was a remarkable little town, and while the railroad and splendid country around it have done much, there is no doubt that the town owes more of its prosperity to the Enterprise than to anything else. It has advertised and made Burden: the town never could have been what it is without a good local paper. Torrance has made but few recent changes. The most prominent thing is its fine schoolhouse, which is a very creditable structure. In traveling through Cowley, in any direction, the schoolhouses are a noticeable feature. At New Salem the schoolhouse would do honor to a much larger town. Burden=s schoolhouse is the finest building in the place, while that at Cambridge is superior to any outside of Winfield, Arkansas City, or Burden. It is a two story stone structure, 30 x 60 feet, is splendidly furnished, and has a fine bell. Mr. Will C. Barnes, a Winfieldite, to whom the company are under many obligations for courtesies extended, is principal and Miss Lizzie Palmer, well known to many Winfield people, is assistant. They are among Cowley=s most capable teachers and are giving good satisfaction. Of course, we called on the Cambridge News, and found the proprietors, Messrs. S. B. Sherman and H. F. Hicks, at home. One of them was busily engaged trying to explain to a rural gentleman that the News had ten times as many subscribers as that Avile sheet,@ the Burden Enterprise, and that their list had increased until it contained one-fiftieth as many as the Winfield COURIER, the oldest and most reliable paper in the county. He must have been correct. Mr. W. G. Seaver, the energetic, intelligent young editor of the News, was at his post, but instead of writing narrow gauge editorials, he was making selections of type from a specimen book, with which to start a paper at Dexter in a few weeks. He thinks he can make a paper pay at that place. He is a racy writer and was at one time connected with the St. Joe Gazette. Should he start a paper at Dexter, it will undoubtedly be a success in point of excellence, the only uncertain thing being a sufficient patronage. We supposed that no Satanic angels ever visited a sequestered spot like Cambridge, but they do. A man with a grip and twenty-five cents worth of soap done up in little wads, opened out there during our stay. His lusty voice drew a crowd around him, and after placing five and two dollar bills in some of the wrappers and rolling them up, he commenced to dispose of the soap to persons who were anxious to get five dollars for two. After clearing fifty dollars, twenty of which came from a young man who seemed illy able to make such a contribution, he quietly slid out of town. There are always men ready to fall into such traps, and the only lamentable thing about it is that experience dost seem to teach them anything. We were pleased to meet at Cambridge Miss Tirzah A. Hoyland, who has been the regular correspondent of the COURIER from New Salem for many years. She is one of Cowley=s most intelligent ladies and has written many good things for this paper. She was visiting friends there. In and around Cambridge are many substantial, intelligent men, and other than those already named, we might mention F. S. Coons, proprietor of the Cambridge House, W. H. Palmer, Thos. S. Griffin, J. B. Lukens, L. B. Carter, J. P. Craft, J. S. Bernard, James B. Rowe, and others whose names we did not get. It is also the home of County Commissioner, J. A. Irwin.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Another Pioneer Gone.
DIED. Died in Vernon Township, Feb. 20th, 1884, Mrs. Nancy A., widow of the late Thomas Randall, aged 72 years, 5 months, and 26 days. She was born in Rockland, Maine. At the age of 22 she became the subejct of saving grace and united with the Baptist Church, in which communion she lived and walked with Christ for fifty years. In 1879 they celebrated their golden wedding. One year afterward Mr. Randall was called home, leaving her with six of the ten children she had born to him to mourn his loss, one of them well known here, I. W. Randall, who superintended the construction of the Baptist Church edivice in this city. Mrs. Randall was encowed by nature with an amiable disposition and gentle spirit. The strongest element in her nature was love. In her departure from earth, she was calm and triumphant, longing to be with Jesus and him with whom she had traveled earth=s maizes so long, strong as were the ties that bound her to her children and the many kind neighbors among whom she had lived so long and was so dearly beloved, yet the great object of her life had been to prepare for the Ahouse not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens.@ She welcomed the summons and entered the upper sanctuary sustained by that faith in which she had lived so long. It is such characters as these that have given Cowley County its moral standing, unsurpassed east or west, and makes it the most desirable home of the good and true citizen. FRATER.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Why Is It?
A
I am always particularly interested in reading the items in the COURIER from the different neighborhood correspondents, and when I read of the many thorough, efficient teachers employed in the different schools of the county, I wonder why it could not have been our lot to have had such an one this winter, in District 97.@ Crooked Elm.Like everything else in this world, the quality of the teacher depends very much upon the price you pay. In turning to the list of Cowley teachers, we find that district 97 pays its teacher but thirty dollars per month: one of the smallest salaries in the county. Persons who have spent years fitting themselves for teachers can=t afford such remuneration. A large majority of Cowley=s teachers get over forty dollars per month and earn every cent of the money, and more.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
A Question.
A
Will someone please be kind enough to inform me, through the columns of the COURIER where the boundaries of Fairview Township are? We have two section maps of Cowley County, in which all the townships are given except Fairview.@ Citizen.Fairview Township begins at the northeast corner of section one, township thirty-one south, range four east, thence west six miles to northwest corner of section six, thence south six miles to southwest corner of section thirty-one, thence east six miles to southeast corner of section thirty-six, thence north six miles to place of beginning. It contains thirty-six square miles. Edward=s Atlas of Cowley County gives the correct boundaries.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Fine Cattle.
Messrs. Garth & Co., well-known and responsible stockmen, announce in this issue a public sale in Wichita, Kansas, on Friday, March 14th, of 100 thoroughbred Hereford and Short-horn cattle, consisting of yearling and two-year-old bulls, and heifers, one, two, annd three years old. These fine, young and useful cattle are registered, or will be, in the American or English records, so their owners announce, and his so near home will be a splendid opportunity for southwestern breeders and farmers to procure something they all need. Send to Garth & Co., at 1415 Charlotte St., Kansas City, for catalogue and full particulars. [I SKIPPED AD.]
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Burdenville.
Seeing an advertisement for the coming annual meeting of the Fair Association in your town, I write to suggest that you call the attention of the Board of Directors to the fact of an entire absence of all accommodations for the country people, especially with regard to seats, except where they are required to pay exorbitantly for their use in the amphitheatre. And particularly, I would beg you to urge that they erect benches of the cheapest description for the said country peopleCespecially when they are denied a nearer approach with their carriages than the small space contiguous to the gates, and are turned aside by armed policeman to make way for the more elegant and stylish city turnouts, that they may have all available space for a more comfortable view of the races, and protected from the dust and sun that the Aherd@ from the country have to endure as best they may. We country people certainly contribute our share and spend our money at your fairs, and why should we be subjected to such indignities with impunity, country gawks though we are? Talk feeling to the Directors, and believe me in all truth one of the suffererers from ATIGHT SHOES.@
Owing to lack of time necessary to place all the capital stock, the Directors of the Fair found it impossible to erect free seats for last year. It will be done before the next fair. Our correspondent is evidently mistaken when she says: AWe country people certainly contribute our share and spend our money at your fairs.@ Of the seventeen directors of the fair, twelve are farmers, one from her own vicinity. The president is a farmer and a majority of the stock is owned by farmers. Therefore, if she means by Ayour Fair@ that it is in any way a city institution, she is badly mistaken. In order to be a success, this fair must be conducted on business principles, that is, equal privileges at a uniform price. Everyone, whether from the country, city, or from Afric, got a seat in the amphitheatre for 25 cents. If any policeman gave some privileges over others, it was in direct disobedience of his orders, and the aggrieved party should have reported him to the officer and had him kicked off the grounds.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Quarterly Meeting.
The last Quarterly Meeting of the United Brethren Church for this charge, will be held in this city next Saturday and Sabbath, the 1st and 2nd of March. Rev. P. B. Lee will conduct the services. A cordial invitation is extended to all who can, to be with us on the occasion.
J. H. SNYDER, Pastor.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The Courier Surmises
That Winfield is the healthiest town in Kansas.
That Charlie Fuller has lost something from his upper lip.
That M. M. Scott, the auctioneer, has either shaved off his beard or left townCwhich?
That the Firemen=s Ball this (Wednesday) evening will be the Ajust too uttler too too@ affair of the season.
That enough entertainments are planned ahead to keep our people out of bed of nights for some time to come.
That plenty of good air, good food, good water and, above all, the lack of bad Aspirits,@ keep the denizens of our city in good health.
That F. M. Friend will have the finest millinery establishment in Southern Kansas when he gets moved into the Torrance-Fuller block.
That P. H. Albright is considered by the ladies to be the handsomest batchelor in the city, and if he isn=t careful, will be taken in on a Leap Year proposal.
That J. B. Lynn=s store looks more Acityfied@ than any in this section since he had it frescoed, and that it will be more so still when he gets in his Elevated Railway Cash System.
That O. M. Soward, Jim Hill, Joe O=Hare, C. C. Harris, and a number of other AOld Batches,@ had better not refuse too many Leap year proposalsCwhen the ladies talk like Abiz@Conly two months more.
That a good many men were badly Abeat@ when the fire bell rang Wednesday and they went about four blocks at a 2:40 gait, to find the fire, and only found that it was a signal for the fire companies to turn out for practice.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Probate Court.
First annual settlement of the estate of Daniel Weaverling, deceased, was made this week. Administrator to pay all debts which have been allowed. N. C. Thompson was allowed his demand of fifty dollars against the estate. Report of sale of real estate of John B. Danields, deceased, approved and deed altered. David C. Beach was appointed administrator of the estate of Wm. B. Carr; C. A. Roberts, administrator of the estate of Mary Davenport; and Edna [?] U, Smyth, administratrix of the estate of Wm. H. Smyth.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Anti-Narrow Gauge Ticket.
Some patriotic citizens have taken enough interest in the welfare of the county to provide for plenty of tickets, AAgainst the subscription of stock and the issue of bonds to the Denver, Memphis & Atlantic Railway Company.@ These tickets are printed and ready for distribution at the COURIER Office. Please call and get a supply.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Sell Your Poultry.
Those farmers who desire to sell their poultry this season had better bring it in within the next few weeks. With the coming of warm weather the shipment of dressed poultry ceases and the price necessarily drops. The immense shipment being made by J. P. Baden has made good prices and now is the time to take advantage of them.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
New Lumber Yard.
The Olivers= are receiving their immense stock of lumber and workmen are busy putting up the sheds, offices, and fencing on their yard opposite the Brettun House. In a few days they will be ready for business when something will Adrop@ in the lumber line. We advise every person desirous of purchasing a lumber bill to call on them at once.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Winfield Water Company.
February 27, 1884.
D. L. Kretsinger is this day appointed Superintendent of the Winfield Water Company, and will have supervising control of the company=s works. All patrons of the company will apply to him for water rates, permits, contracts, etc., and to whom all rentals will be paid.
M. L. ROBINSON, President.
CHAS. F. BAHNTGE, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
An average of sixteen cars of Cowley produce is shipped from Winfield over the Southern Kansas railroad, daily.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Professor Farringer=s concert tonight (Thursday). Reserved seats can be secured without extra charge at Goldsmith=s.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Winfield needs a hundred houses to rent. Every day persons come into this office to inquire if we know of a house to let.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. S. W. Pennington returned this week from a trip to Indiana. He reports a good many Indianians with the Kansas fever.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
All are invited to come to the supper Friday evening and thus assist the hard working ladies to aid in finishing their church building.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The millers of the county are getting very close run for wheat. Mr. T. S. Green was offered 95 cents for his last week, but refused to sell it for less than a dollar.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Remember the time and place for supperCTorrance & Fuller building, Friday night, at any hour from half past five till all are supplied. Dinner Saturday.
For the accommodation of the businessmen, supper will be ready at half past five and dinner at half past eleven on Saturday in the Torrance and Fuller building.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. A. E. Baird started Monday morning for the eastern markets to purchase a large spring stock for the New York Store. During his absence the boys will make some big reductions in prices, to make room for new goods.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Miss Alice Wherritt, who has been visiting her sister, Mrs. A. D. Hendricks, for some time, left this Thursday morning for Chanute, where she will visit a week with relatives before returning to her home in Pleasant Hill, Missouri.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Rev. W. H. Rose, in charge of Douglas circuit, has just closed a protracted meeting at Valley Center schoolhouse, which resulted in 29 accessions to the church. The society is in a prosperous condition; peace and harmony prevail. Measures will be taken in the near future to build a church.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. M. C. Gregor, of Iowa, has been visiting his sister, Mrs. P. P. Powell, of south Walnut Township, during the past few weeks. He is another prospector and is looking this week over Sedgwick and other counties. He has almost concluded to settle in Cowley.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mrs. E. D. Garlick, Deputy Grand Worthy Chief Templar, assisted by a number from the Good Templars Lodge of Winfield, instituted a strong Lodge at Cambridge last Saturday night. Cambridge has a good many enthusiastic temperance workers who will give such an institution a firm footing.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. C. W. Frith was over from Dexter Wednesday. He dropped in to assure us of his earnest support of our position on the narrow gauge question. Hundreds of the best citizens in the county from all quarters, have done likewise during the past week. It is pleasant to us to know that our views have such substantital support.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Capt. C. M. Scott was in the city Friday with Chiefs Joseph and Yellow Bull, of the Nez Perce Indians. They were here for the purpose of perfecting a lease to R. A. Houghton for 75,000 acres of their land. The lease was for ten years and for a consideration of $2,000 per year. It will make a pasture capable of holding 4,000 head of cattle.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. A. L. McMillan, of the Sterling Gazette, son-in-law of Mr. William Proud of this city, visited here a few days this week. Journalistic honesty found its way to the surface in a confession that Cowley is ahead of Rice County in present improvement and enterprise. He thinks Cowley is the liveliest county he has seen in Kansas.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Dr. W. R. Davis is up from Vinita, Indian Territory, for a few days to settle up business and see old friends. He is in good health and spirits and family all well with a new daughter in the family. His son, Sam. E. Davis, is with him at Vinita, having been released from the army a few weeks ago. His military experience in New Mexico has been useful to him and now he will go into such civil pursuits as will bring his bright talents into play and we expect to hear of distinction and honors for him at no distant day.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The AGerman Volunteer,@ by Winfield Post G. A. R., was greeted at the Opera House during four nights of last week with crowded houses. About forty persons took part and many of the characters were splendidly represented. Next to the German comedian, Will D. Saphar, who managed the play, Mr. F. F. Leland, as Horace St. Claire, received the highest praises. Frank has natural dramatic talent and a little proactice would make him equal to many professional actors. Mr. W. A. McCartney=s appearance as Walter Morton, the Southerner, was appropriate and he rendered the part well. Walter Denning as John Harvey, G. H. Buckman as Col. St. Claire, Mit A. Bates as Charlie White, J. C. Evans as Milton Dare, J. E. Snow as ATeddy,@ B. F. Stout as Major Clark, Col. Whiting as General U. S. A.,
F. J. Friend as Colonel U. S. A., Dave Harter as Uncle Jeff, John Herndon as Sam, A. H. Limerick as General C. S. A., Miss Cora Robins as May St. Claire, Miss Ida Vanlew as Mrs. St. Claire, and Miss Myrtle Page as Lizzie Mortion, were the principal participants in the play, and we regret that lack of space prevents individual comment. The general verdict of the public was that the Post furnished a first-class amateur entertainment. The tableaux were very fine. The Post=s share of the proceeds put a neat sum into its treasury for the relief of old soldiers, their wives, and children in Cowley who, through one cause and another, are needy and worthy of assistance. Many such have been found, and Winfield Post is doing a grand work by taking them into its care.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The lectures of Mrs. Marion Baxter, of Michigan, at the M. E. Church last Friday evening, AThe Hand Writing on the Wall,@ was received with much commendation. She depicted the present relation of woman to the temperance question and politics, and brought out many new and bristling points. She remained over Sunday and a Union Meeting was arranged at the Presbyterian Church, at which she delivered the address. The crowd that turned out to hear her Sunday evening was never surpassed in Winfield Every available space was occupied. She took a Bible text and preached one of the most forcible temperance sermons that a Winfield audience has lately listened to. Her manner of delivery is easy and pleasing, and the subject matter of her addresses show her to be a deep thinker and one of the ablest of her sex. Arrangements have been made whereby she can return in a few weeks and assist in a mass temperance convention in Winfield, the date of which will soon be announced. Mrs. Baxter delivered the first of the course of lectures projected by the
W. C. T. U. of Winfield; Hon. Edward Carswell will deliver the next in about two weeks. He will be followed by John B. Finch and Mrs. Mary Haggart.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The Probate Judge has issued MARRIAGE CERTIFICATES of unalloyed bliss since our last to the following parties:
Chas. Coons to Mary A. Hamilton.
Ralf M. Turner to Martha Pettit.
Abram King to Nellie E. Lorey.
Wm. F. Wallace to Callie R. Gilleland.
Robert P. Hutchinson to Effie R. Tate.
E. F. Blair to Ella T. Shenneman.
M. C. Coulter to Jessie A. Newton.
Carlton J. Rowell to Amanda J. Obinson.
The names of three Aconfidentials,@ who won=t be married until after the paper comes out, are withheld. Now guess, city reader, who one of these couples are.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
We stated last week tht Mr. Fred Webber received about ten thousand dollars as his last year=s percentage as foreman of the Winfield Roller Mills. We were mistaken. This amount accrued from two years and a half=s foremanship, his percentage in purchasing the mill machineryCabout four thousand dollarsCand his superintendency of the building of the mill.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Camilia Urso, the most expert violinist in the country, will visit Winfield on Tuesday, March 4th, with a fine concert company, under the auspices of the juvenile band. Under the leadership of Ed. E. Farringer, these little fellows are becoming proficient musicians and this entertainment, a part of the proceeds of which goes to them, should be given a rousing house.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
I have this day sold out my stock of water plumbing goods together with the good will of the business heretofore conducted by me, to J. S. Lyon & Co. Plumbers, and I cordially recommend them to my many friends and patrons. I still continue the steam and gas fitting business at the old stand, basement of Read=s Bank. FRANK BARCLAY.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Judge Gans will have his hands full today. He preaches a funeral sermon in Arkansas City at 2 o=clock p.m., will return at 5, marry a couple from Eastern Cowley, and preach a sermon in New Salem at night. He expecxts to return and be at home during the Awee sma@ hours of tonight.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
Mr. F. S. York was up from Otto yesterday and reports the people in that section solid against the narrow gauge. We hear similar reports from many other sections of the county.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
All lodges can be served with supper at the Torrance & Fuller building Friday night.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
The ladies of the Christian Church will g ive one of their Anumber one@ suppers at the Fuller and Torrance building, Friday night, and dinner Saturday.
Come and eat oysters at the Fuller and Torrance building, Friday night. Don=t forget.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1884.
AD. Go to the Variety Store for Blank Books, Stationery, Sheet music, Tinware, Cutlery, Sewing Machines, Cigars, and 5 and 10 cent counter goods. Country stores and Notion wagons supplied at jobbers= prices. Always ahead. F. W. ROWLAND.